War God ⚔️

☆ | ares devotional account 🩸

[granellodisole]

Anger is a gift

O' determined Aphrodite. O' mighty Ares. I pray to you, consorts in burning passion. With gratitude I preach your reminder of How much dormant self-worth and hurt pride Reside in vitriolic anger. May your presence teach me how to harness it, How not to spiral in its thorny whirlwind And choose when to release its poison. This I pray, as your humble worshipper. Blessed are your names, Aphrodite Areia and Lord Ares, Olympian bringers of retribution!

[quackysprouts]

hera’s son

[dreadedpearls]

I love talking about Ares, but I wanted to add some things a person can do to worship him other than working out or picking up a hobby that requires physical activity. Those things are epic! I don't hate at all, but some of those things aren't feasible for some. Here are a few things he's taught me; they'll help some of you.

Admit your fears to him or yourself. They could range from 'fear of talking to cashiers' to' I'm afraid in life when things go too well.' He has mastery over fear and panic; they are his 'children.' Writing and offering these to him can be an activity for you both. Do things that you're scared of, within reason. Order food yourself, talk to new people, try a new amusement park ride, etc. (You can also ask his help in facing these fears)

Face whatever you've been avoiding inwardly. He's revealed some grueling truths to me, but it's been for the best. People sometimes underestimate how tough emotional healing can be; it's hard work. He is fantastic at delivering truth and offering strength and aid when we do such things. He isn't judgmental; I know he has a fearsome reputation, and Im not detracting from it. He's not just the stormer of cities; he also wields the shield and will shelter you under it. Im learning to ask for help, I'm learning how to do a myriad of things, and he's been patient and present in his own way; it's beautiful.

Read his myths from various cultures. I saw someone here discussing research on deities from other cultures' perspectives, but here, you can try to go back further than the Hellenic era of Greece! Ares has ties as a protector of land or one who gives abundance! (not just the feasted on by women, which is dope as shit) He's technically older than most think! (The earliest attested form of the name is the Mycenaean Greek 𐀀𐀩, a-re, written in the Linear B syllabic script.) This is a fun way to connect with any deity, especially Ares. I was filled with passion and excitement when I read through his history!

You can learn about your anger. This may seem obvious, but thinking about your relationship with your anger can lead you down some helpful pathways. You may be quick to anger, but you may not get angry enough. Your anger may hide pain or grief; you may hurt yourself or the ones you love with your temper. Or, you may be suffering under someone else's anger; freeing yourself from it may improve your life. Try to unlearn unhealthy views instilled in you about anger, understand how it can actually help you, and understand it's not the only emotion you can draw upon. Ares is hardly who popular media portrays him as; he's not this angry dumb brute. Ares is incredibly wise and creative in drawing these feelings from you; never be afraid to ask him. (Im still learning how to ask him, lol.)

Learn how to take care of yourself. Shockingly, your deities want you to be well before considering dedicating time to them. (not shocking at all) Ares has forced me on my ass, I suspect, when I was being stubborn in regards to my own health. He's patient, but dedicating self-care and love to him is honorable and would please him. This could range from working out, eating better, getting out of bed, cleaning your room, showering, or just not doing a single task for a day to give yourself a break. This also ties into learning how to manage workloads; you should break before you crash and burn out!

Setting boundaries and sticking to them. I'll lump this in with sticking up for yourself for a moment. Setting boundaries can be challenging for anyone, but Ares will not only remind you that you're worthy of being treated well, he'll encourage you. It's hard work; sometimes you take steps forward and backward, but he'll help you SO MUCH. He made it so easy for me, Im still unsure how he did, but I speak my mind without anxiety so much more.

Stick up for yourself and others, and cut out people who treat you poorly. Analyze the relationships in your life; he'll naturally bring attention to those not serving to bring good into your life. Raise the standards on how you wish to be treated, and hold yourself and others accountable for behaviors.

People say 'research war,' and that's important, but you can also research Greek warfare on YouTube! Hoplite warfare is attributed to him and others; take some time to research formations, ranks, tools, and such. I also liked researching how Ares was viewed in various Polis (ex, Thrace, Sparta, Attica, etc.) You can research warfare tactics if you want to nerd out; I like to sit down and watch weaponry forging (this would work for Hephaistos, too). Spears, shields, and certain swords are symbolic to him.

Read his hymns. His hymns are some of my favorites and are beautiful to me. Contrary to popular belief, embodying strength is about having peace within yourself. Ares knows this; he is wise and understands the human struggle well. Learning his epithets is also an excellent way to go about who you wish to call upon at a particular time. I don't do this, but I still love knowing things about him.

Create jewelry for him and wear it/ draw his symbol on things. Something as simple as this works wonders, I promise. It can be super simple as long as it means something to you. Carrying a physical reminder of him on your person is a lovely way to honor him. Drawing his symbol on certain things to 'bless' also works.

Be there for those you love. Supporting others when you have the capability is essential; loving fiercely is a way to honor Ares, believe it or not. Offering sound advice, being a solid shoulder to cry on, or simply showing up for people you love is really important to Ares as he is a staunch supporter of LOVE in general and comradery. Understanding how to support without overreaching is vital, too, and he can help you with this.

Educate yourself and be a voice. Educate yourself on genocide and war and their realities. Research how to help in what ways you can; these things honor who he is as a God. Stand firm in what's right; don't let someone silence you. These things aren't always possible if you're in a precarious home situation, and that's valid as well!

Do things that make you feel passionate. Did you know ancient Greek Hoplites used a dance to train for war? The Pyrrhichios or Pyrrhike dance was the best-known war dance of the Greeks. It was probably of Dorian origin and practiced at first solely as a training for war. I say this to convey that dancing and moving can be dedicated to Ares, too! (he's also been depicted in a myth as removing his armor and dancing at a wedding; he knows how to be jovial, too!) Whether you practice martial arts or like to move around, do that for him. Pick up new things you enjoy, spark passion within yourself, and revel in it! (Be safe and smart, and don't engage in high-risk activities unless you have proper training and supervision!)

I can only think of this for now, but it's a great beginning! You can work out, pick up weapons training, pick up a contact sport, do martial arts, etc. I also know that there's more he helps with than many people assume; he's an incredible God, and I could gush about how warm his energy is all day. Ares's energy has gotten me through a lot! He deserves all the love and praise! Khaire Ares! Swift and violent, he who fights under the shield's guard!

[mikeyanderson97]

Everyone says Ares feels like protests and Anger

And he does but he also feels like running to your big brother for help,

Crying into the chest of a man who won’t hurt you,

Someone teaching you how to throw a punch, with no judgement

Someone picking you up when you fall and scrape your self up

He feels like tattoos of a woman with snakes for hair to remind yourself you can’t be broken

He feels like someone finally recognizing the anger and rage inside you with honor and acceptance instead of demanding peace and forgiveness

Yes girls and boys Ares is big and scary and in the spirit of rebellion but he’s also a safe place to run don’t forget that 💕

[gothiccprince-art]

ARESSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ares ares ares ares

this drawing felt so good to do, it came out so well... ARESSS....

[khaire-traveler]

⚔️ Subtle Ares Worship 💥

Learning about self-defense (includes carrying a self-protection weapon)

Listening to or writing slam poetry

Wearing jewelry that reminds you of him

Making a list of your personal strengths and things you're proud of

Writing letters (that you will never send) to people who've hurt you and burning them

Exercising, if possible

Dancing, especially to music that brings out your passion, anger, or rebellious side

Supporting local activists or online activism for causes you believe in

Expressing yourself the way you want to physically (this can include little things, such as wearing a certain bracelet or putting on a scent)

Allowing yourself to express your anger and upset; sit with and feel your feelings

Keeping a picture of him in your wallet (this will be a recommendation for every deity, since this can be really discreet)

Playing combat-based video games

Watching combat-based shows

Having a candle that reminds you of him (no altar required)

Having rose imagery around (e.g. art of roses, rose jewelry, rose fairy lights, etc.)

Having imagery of horses around, especially horses related to fire (his chariot has four horses that BREATHE FIRE, WHAT)

Place motivational/affirmational notes somewhere you'll see them

Wearing bold colors, such as red or maroon (these colors are UPG; what do you associate with Ares? Wear those!)

Learning how to box or wrestle (a punching bag tends to be helpful)

Engaging with your personal passions

If you have dogs, playing with them

-

May add more later! This is just a basic list of some discreet ways to worship Ares. Hope y'all enjoy, and take care! ❤️

Link to Subtle Worship Master list

[elikoeides]

Every time I have religious doubts, Ares, without fail, reinforces my beliefs. He is everything to me and without him, I don't know where I'd be in life.

[kochei0]

I turn to Ares.

Thanks to Tyler Miles Lockett who allowed me to draw inspiration from his ARES piece for page 2! Look at his etsy page it's SICK

⚔️ If you want to read some queer retelling of arturian legends have a look at my webtoon

[enyalios-shrine]

☠︎︎༒︎✞︎

Devotional Post

✞︎༒︎☠︎︎

[enyalios-shrine]

𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙈𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝘼𝙧𝙚𝙨

Dogs howling during the night, the quote "It is better to reign in Hell than serve in Heaven" from Paradise Lost, spiked leather jackets, neck tattoos, the tiredness after a workout, the smell of matches, facial scars, the song Mars by Sleeping At Last, dobermanns and rottweilers and other "scary" dog, punk culture and music and fashion, spiky jewelry, can tabs, red or poisonous flowers, ginger, cinnamon, bitter coffee

[enyalios-shrine]

𝘼𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 101

Hi! I’m Raven (or Ray), and I’ve been an Ares devotee for almost five years now. You want to start worshiping him? Great! Despite what today’s media makes of him - which I will talk about a lot in this post - , he’s actually a very caring, gentle and (dare I say) beginner-friendly deity! In general, a great choice! (Also, this is inspired by another post I saw but forgot to save - so, credits for the idea goes to that person) So, let's get started.

WHO IS ARES? - MODERN MISCONCEPTIONS

Since I’m assuming you already know the broad strokes of who he is (Greek god of war, bloodshed, violent and so forth), this section will be about some of the misconceptions most people have of Him. If you’ve ever consumed any Greek mythology-related media, I’m sure you’ve seen the following caricature: beefy, misogynistic, violent, stupid jerk, rude and always looking for a fight. While, yes, He IS violent (He's the god of war, afterall), that's far from all He has to offer.

Did you know Ares is actually historically a major feminist? That’s probably the first thing to get demystified about Him when you talk to an Ares devotee or worshiper, so I’m not really saying ground-breaking news here, but since a fair amount of people don’t know about it, I thought it was a fair mention. So, let’s get into the actual myths and proofs for this claim:

Ares was the father of and supported the Amazons in battle, a group of female-only warriors and hunters.

He’s one of the only male deities in Greek mythology to not have sexually harassed or raped someone. Yes, even other deities viewed as “nice” such as Apollo and Hermes have done so (I don’t mean any disrespect for those deities here - I’m also an Apollo devotee).

Ares was held in trial for the murder of Halirrhotius, a son of Poseidon, after he raped one of Ares’ daughters, Alkippe. He was acquited of murder by the gods. Remember, back in ancient Greece, women didn’t have ANY rights - raping one was not considered a crime or even frowned upon as far as I'm aware.

One of His epithets is “Ares Gynaikothoina", which means "feasted by women". During a war between the Tegeans and the Spartans, the women of Tegea defended the city from a invasion led by the Spartan king Charilaus. After arming themselves, they defeated the Spartans following an ambush. Among the prisoners was the Spartan king himself. In commemoration, they would hold a feast in honor of Ares, to which only women were invited.

All in all, Ares is protective, just, and encouraging of His children as well as worshipers and devotees. He’s not the piece of shit jock most people think of when you mention His name. Please stop doing my man this dishonor, He deserves so much better.

BASIC INFO

His Roman counterpart is Mars. He’s the son of Zeus and Hera, and his consourt is Aphrodite (even though they’re not officially married). His divine children are Phobos and Deimos (twin daimones/personified spirits of panic and terror, respectively), Harmonia (goddess of harmony and concord), Antero (erote/god of requited love) and Eros (erote/god of carnal love), all which he had with Aphrodite, as well as Drakon of Thebes (a giant serpent), which he apparently had by himself.

As for hero children; Cycnus (a bloody-thirsty men who was murdered by Herakles), Diomedes of Thrace (who had man-eating horses for some reason), Thrax (who founded Thrace), Oenomaus (Greek king of Pisa), and the Amazons (female warriors and hunters as mentioned above).

His symbols and associations are: spears, swords, helmets, armour, dogs, chariots, shields, The Chariot & The Emperor tarot cards, etc.

FESTIVALS AND DAYS

Tuesdays are holy to Ares and are ruled by the planet Mars (again, his Roman counterpart), which means they’re associated with action, energy, strength, and courage, as well as the color red.

As for festivals, He was typically honored with special rites in times of war or just before battles. There were also two annual festivals: one in the town of Geronthrae in ancient Laconia, celebrated only by men, and one in Tagea in Arcadia, celebrated only by women, where His "feasted by women" epithet came from. There's hardly any info on exact dates (from the Attic calendar or not) or info about any other festivals.

SACRED ANIMALS

Serpents

Dogs

Vultures

Woodpecker

Barn owls

Eagle owls

SACRED PLANTS

There’s no plant, flower or tree traditionally associated with Ares, unfortunately, so I’m gonna give a list of my UPG’s. Now, I’m not a witch, so I don’t know about the magical properties of the plants I’m about to list (if you’re a witch and were looking for something like that, my bad). However, I am a florist and have a special interest in floriography, so I assign them to Him based on vibe, meaning, etc.

Amaryllis (Means “Pride”)

Basil (Means “Hate”)

Water hemlock (Means “Death”)

Snapdragon (Means “Presumption”, but I think he just likes the way it looks)

Poppy (Means “Eternal sleep”, but has a long history with wars, being the first kind of flora to start growing in abandoned battlefields that were previously considered infertile)

Nettle (Means “Cruelty”)

Magnolia (Means “Dignity”)

Yarrow (Means “Cure for a broken heart”, and is said to have been used by Achilles to heal his men on the battlefield, which is why the scientific name is “Achillea”)

Ginger (Associated with “Heat”)

Pepper, spices, etc (idk he just gives the vibes)

OFFERINGS & DEVOTIONAL ACTS

Honestly, the only slander Ares should be getting is that He likes edgy teenage boy things. That being said, here's some ideas/suggestions, first for devotional acts and then offerings:

Workout or do any kind of physical activity

Take care of your mental and physical health

Stand up for yourseld and what you believe in

Learn about past wars, battles, and riots

Do things that make you feel badass/brave/empowered

Go to a protest

Work on managing your anger (especially for my fellow BPD havers)

Pet a dog

Honor His children and Aphrodite

For offerings; any kind of meat, especially red

Anything sharp (cool knives or daggers, broken glass, etc)

Bones!!

Halloween decor (I personally have those fake plastic snakes, spiders, and a skull on His altar)

Black coffee, the stronger the better

Any alcohol, but especially whiskey

Anything spicy

WHY WORSHIP ARES? - A PERSONAL RANT

Living in an extremely physically abusive household, I had to know and be acostumed to violence from a very young age. That violence left with many things - BPD and C-PTSD, to name a few - but mostly importantly, it left me only being able to feel one thing: anger.

I was angry at everything. Angry at the world for allowing me to have to live through such a horrible situation, angry at my mom for not standing up for me, angry at my abuser, even angry at myself for not ever trying to fight back or protect myself (though now I realize that was completely out of the question. I was only 8, what could I have done against a man in his 30's that was three times my size?).

That anger didn't go away after I got away from my abuser. If anything, it grew worse. I'd yell, break everything around me, say horrible things to the people I loved - I was a totally different person. I could barely recognize myself. I was an empty shell, filled with absolutely nothing else than the purest form of resentment and wrath, things that had been brewing inside of me since I was a child. I never had the choice to become anything else.

Ares understands violence. He's the god of it. He knows when it's justifiable and when it's not, when it serves a purpose and when it's out of pure malice. He helped me realize that instead of trying to fight against my anger out of the shame it made me feel, I had to embrace it - become one with it. It's a part of me, at the end of the day. I just had to figure out how to control it instead of letting it control me.

He embraced me when I was too disgusted with this ugly side of me to even look in a mirror. I was scared of myself - he wasn't. He's seen worse. I never had someone accept me and all my flaws before, god or otherwise.

That's why it's so upsetting to see the modern depictions so many people have of him. Someone so understanding and loving being defined by the worst parts of Himself, just like I used to do with myself in the past.

Ares is the god of war, war is not the god of Ares.

[the-purvashadha]

Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation and that is an act of political warfare.

Audre Lorde

[chthoniastarot]

⋅·⋅☽devotional post☾ ⋅·⋅

═ -ˋˏ ⚔️ ˎˊ- ═

lord ares

[violet-swan-5]

How I view Ares

People seemed to like my post on how I view Aphrodite (thank u again for the ask :) ), so I thought I'd do one for Ares

I once again open with that there is no wrong way to view Ares. I believe that personal interpretation of the Gods appearance (etc) is part of worship and your bond with them.

I view Ares similarly to the statues from antiquity. Tall, but no taller than roughly 6'2. muscular but not like a body builder, practical muscle rather that decorative. I see Him as scarred and willing to tell the Stories behind them. Stern and disciplined, but never cruel. He is a paternal figure, a protector, with a golden red-plumed helmet and spear by His side.

Ares is not solely anger and bloodlust, He cares for those affected by violence of all kinds. He knows that violence has its place and when to use it, because Ares is the God of War, War is not the God of Ares.

He is the patron of the Amazons, He is the protector of all victims of violence. He is a caring God who is not ruled by his anger.

Ares is not the common media tropes assigned to him by film. Ares is not evil.

[hisfluer]

i sing to ares, lord of  war & the ever sharp blade.  oh, unweary helper of men,  guide me with your strength & lead my weary feet forward.  unwavering god, drive away the fear in my heart & give me  the next day to fight on —