Invocations are formal requests or appeals made to a higher power, often used in religious or spiritual contexts. They typically involve calling upon deities, spirits, or divine forces to seek guidance, blessings, or assistance. Invocations can be part of rituals, prayers, or ceremonies, and they often set the tone for the event. In many cultures, invocations are performed at the beginning of gatherings, such as weddings, funerals, or religious services. They may include specific phrases or chants that hold significance within a particular tradition. The purpose is to create a sacred atmosphere and invite the presence of the divine.