Apollo

He is the Greek god of the Sun and light, archery for sport, healing and disease, truth, knowledge, prophecy and oracles, music, poetry, song, dance, herds and flocks, and the protector of the youth.

Apollo is associated with the laurel wreath, lyre, raven, swan, python and the bow and arrow. He is the patron deity of Delphi, famous for its oracles who worshiped him. He was also the patron of herdsmen and shepherds since he is known for his heard of Divine cattle.

Lore

He is the son of Zeus and the Titaness Leto and is the brother of Artemis. He was born on the floating island of Delos along with his sister due to Hera forbidding Leto from giving birth on the main land or any island on the ocean as well as sending the monster Python to hunt her.

After he was born he was fed Ambrosia by the goddess of divine law, Themis, and within four days grew strong and tall.

Notable events

• Receiving the Lyre from Hermes as appeasement for stealing his sacred cattle.
• Slaying the dragon Python in its cave at Delphi and setting up his sanctuary in its place.

When to invoke

Apollo is a god that has many situations where his invocation would be of use. He can be invoked to assist in many artistic endeavors like music, poetry and dance given that he is a frequent companion of the muses as well as being useful for those participating in archery contests. He is also good to invoke for shepherds or herdsmen.

It is wise for parents with young children, especially boys, in school to invoke him or provide there child with a charm associated to Apollo. This is because he is known as the protector of youth as well as educating the young. It is also said in mythology that he and the muses originated education.

Image source:https://smite.gamepedia.com/Apollo