Four Quarters Invocation

The 4 Quarters Invocation is a ceremonial or ritual invocation that calls upon the four cardinal directions—North, East, South, and West—to invoke the elements and spirits associated with each direction. It is a foundational practice in many magical, Wiccan, Pagan, and Neo-pagan traditions, as well as in other occult and ceremonial magics. Each direction is usually associated with an element (Earth, Air, Fire, Water) and different qualities, archetypes, or deities. The purpose is to call upon these forces for balance, protection, wisdom, and power during a ritual.

There are many versions of the 4 Quarters invocation, with variations based on tradition, belief systems, and personal preferences. Here are some different versions, representing different aspects of how this invocation can be performed:

1. Traditional Wiccan Version

In Wicca, the 4 Quarters invocation typically involves calling the quarters (North, East, South, West) and the elements, as well as invoking any deities associated with those directions.

Invocation of the Quarters:

• North (Earth): “I call upon the powers of the North, the Earth, to give stability and strength to this circle. May your solid foundation guide and support us.”

• East (Air): “I call upon the powers of the East, the Air, to bring wisdom, insight, and inspiration into our lives. May your breeze clear our minds.”

• South (Fire): “I call upon the powers of the South, the Fire, to ignite passion, energy, and transformation. May your flame burn brightly in our hearts.”

• West (Water): “I call upon the powers of the West, the Water, to bring healing, intuition, and emotional depth. May your waves cleanse and purify our spirits.”

• Closing: “By the powers of the North, East, South, and West, the elements have been called. We are in balance and harmony. So mote it be.”

2. Ceremonial Magic Version

In more formal ceremonial magic traditions, the 4 Quarters Invocation is often done with a more structured approach, sometimes with the inclusion of angels or archangels. This version tends to have a more solemn and formal tone, invoking the angels and their associated elements.

Invocation of the Quarters:

• North (Earth): “I call upon the Archangel Uriel, ruler of the North, to bring stability, wisdom, and strength. Let the Earth beneath our feet ground and protect us in this work.”

• East (Air): “I call upon the Archangel Raphael, ruler of the East, to guide us with your wisdom and insight. Let the Air clear our minds and elevate our spirits.”

• South (Fire): “I call upon the Archangel Michael, ruler of the South, to ignite our passions and transformation. Let the Fire burn brightly, purging all negativity.”

• West (Water): “I call upon the Archangel Gabriel, ruler of the West, to bring healing and peace. Let the Water flow over us and cleanse us from all harm.”

• Closing: “With the powers of Uriel, Raphael, Michael, and Gabriel, we are surrounded by divine protection and guidance. Let our work be blessed and successful. So it is.”

3. Shamanic Version

In shamanic or indigenous traditions, the 4 Quarters invocation may be framed in terms of honoring the spirits of the land or ancestors, with a strong focus on the spiritual relationship to nature and the Earth. The invocation is often done in a more prayer-like or heartfelt manner.

Invocation of the Quarters:

• North (Earth): “I call to the Spirit of the North, the Earth, the place of wisdom and strength. May your steady hand guide me as I walk this sacred path.”

• East (Air): “I call to the Spirit of the East, the Air, the place of new beginnings and illumination. May your breath fill my mind with clarity and understanding.”

• South (Fire): “I call to the Spirit of the South, the Fire, the place of passion and transformation. May your flame burn brightly in my heart and soul.”

• West (Water): “I call to the Spirit of the West, the Water, the place of healing and emotion. May your waters flow through me, washing away all fear and doubt.”

• Closing: “With the powers of the North, East, South, and West, I honor the spirits of the land and the ancestors. May my work be in alignment with the greater flow of life. Aho.”

4. Simple Elemental Version

A more modern, simplified version that focuses purely on the elements and is often used in general spellcraft or ritual work.

Invocation of the Quarters:

• North (Earth): “Hail, Earth, you are the foundation. Grant us strength, stability, and endurance.”

• East (Air): “Hail, Air, you are the breath of life. Grant us clarity, wisdom, and insight.”

• South (Fire): “Hail, Fire, you are the spark of transformation. Grant us energy, passion, and courage.”

• West (Water): “Hail, Water, you are the source of healing. Grant us purity, intuition, and emotional balance.”

• Closing: “By the powers of the elements, the circle is cast. So mote it be.”

5. Personalized Version

A version of the 4 Quarters invocation can also be customized based on personal beliefs, goals, or the spirits you’re working with. This version might not strictly follow traditional associations but can be tailored for specific purposes, like spiritual guidance, protection, or empowerment.

Invocation of the Quarters:

• North (Earth): “I call to the ancient forces of the North, to the Earth, for grounding and clarity in my path.”

• East (Air): “I call to the energies of the East, to the Air, for guidance and insight on my journey.”

• South (Fire): “I call to the flames of the South, to Fire, to awaken passion and action within me.”

• West (Water): “I call to the flowing waters of the West, to bring healing, peace, and intuition to my work.”

• Closing: “With these four elements, I stand empowered and connected. So it is.”