Book Of Shadows

The Book Of Shadows

Every witch should have a Book of Shadows. Basically it's a witch's diary or journal and is filled with all sorts of occult information. A Book of Shadows is a very personal item for a witch and you should treasure it.

There are many guidelines on the Internet for what should, and what shouldn't go into it. We believe that it's entirely up to you. If all you want to do is put spells in there (which is a commonly held view of what a Book of Shadows is) then that's fine. But you'll get much more out of it if you record all your magickal experiences. The choice is yours so do whatever you're comfortable with.

Spells should always be recorded of course whether successful or not. That way if you need to do a particular spell again then it's easy to check back and see what did, or didn't work. Don't waste time on trial and error. Look in your book.

It doesn't matter what form your Book of Shadows takes. Some people like to have a purpose made one, and there are some lovely ones available. Some will be quite happy with a notebook or a ring binder. Nor are you limited to just one binder. If a single binder is full, then it's full. Start another one. They both are part of your Book of Shadows. Likewise it doesn't matter whether it's typed or handwritten. On plain paper or parchment. The right way is whatever you want it to be.

As your Book of Shadows could literally contain a lifetime of magick, you should never lend it to someone. If you want to let someone copy a spell by all means do so. But let them copy it in your house. It's irreplaceable.

Don't go showing it around to people unnecessarily either. Especially not to "prove" you're a witch to someone. That Book of shadows contains a lot of magickal energy and it will lose some of it if treated in this way.

If you belong to a coven then it's fine to show them but you will probably find it's not necessary most times as the coven usually has its own Book of Shadows which will be the collective magickal knowledge of the members.

The Five-Fold Kiss

The five fold kiss ia series of ritual kisses given at initiation, and as a portion of the Great Rite ceremony. The kiss is usually done male to female, or female to male, though this is not always the case. It is only performed within the circle. It is also a ceremony that is sometimes ritually acted out between the High Priestess and Priest to mark the respect shown between the God and Goddess.

The five fold kiss is not sexual, even when the ceremony is performed naked. It is a ritual of respect, and not in the least degrading for either party. Far from it. The kiss is usually performed by the most senior High Priest or Priestess present.

FIVE FOLD KISS FEMALE:

The High Priest kneels before the initiate and gives her the five fold kiss. He kisses her on both feet, both knees, womb, both breasts, and the lips, starting with the right of each pair. At each appropriate body part, he says:

Blessed be thy feet, that have brought thee in these ways.
Blessed be thy knees, that shall kneel at the sacred altar.
Blessed be thy womb, without which we would not be.
Blessed be thy breasts, formed in beauty.
Blessed be thy lips, that shall utter the Sacred Names.

For the kiss on the lips, they embrace, length-to-length, with their feet touching each others.

FIVE FOLD KISS MALE:

The High Priestess kneels before the initiate and gives him the five fold kiss. tShe kisses him on both feet, both knees, phallus, both breasts, and the lips, starting with the right of each pair. At each appropriate body part, she says:

Blessed be thy feet, that have brought thee in these ways
Blessed be thy knees, that shall kneel at the sacred altar
Blessed be thy phallus, without which we would not be
Blessed be thy breasts, formed in strength
Blessed be thy lips, that shall utter the Sacred Names.

For the kiss on the lips, they embrace, length-to-length, with their feet touching.

For both sexes the body is a sacred and holy shrine, and is to be revered, not despised. It is to be honored, not treated with shame. For a woman, the body is considered a temple of the Goddess whose divinity she carries in the centre of the soul. For a man, his body is a temple of the God

Magickal Symbols
	Air	Earth

	Fire	Karmic Law

	The Lady	The Lord

	The Pentacle	The Triple God

	The Triple Goddess	Water

The Circle

Nearly all formal craft rituals revolve around the Circle. The Circle is a sacred space that separates the physical world from the spiritual world. Not only that but it forms a protected area where space and time almost become irrelevant. A place where the "normal" world is effectively now in suspended animation. From this sacred space the spiritual world becomes accessible and almost all becomes possible. The possibilities are literally endless for the practitioner.

Nothing this special comes about without some work being involved. The Circle has to be planned, it has to be molded, it has to be shaped. It needs to be given substance, life, and of course, power. In other words you have to build it.

You don't just dive straight in to Casting a Circle. You need to ritually prepare for it. This means cleasning not only the area where the Circle will be created but cleansing your mind, spirit, and body. Why is all this necessary? Because if you want your magick to work you, as well as the Circle, need to be at your very best. If you're not at your best neither will the spiritual realm be. And that will definitely affect the quality of your magick. The Circle will cease to be an effective workspace and to all intent and purpose it will be useless.

The menu to the left will take you step by step through all the preparation needed for Casting the Circle and all the different stages of the ritual.

Despite what many would have you believe, there is no one right way to Cast a Circle, no one right ritual to perform, nor are any words spoken as part of the ritual sacrosanct. Thats's the beauty of Wicca and Witchcraft. It's what you want it to be, it's what works for you and what you make it. Wicca and Witchcraft are guidelines to a way of life. There is no one set of rules that have to be obeyed! remember the old saying... "Rules are for the guidance of wise men and the blind obedience of fools".

The Circle - Personal Preparations

Preparing for Casting the Circle is a very personal thing for most Witches. Everyone has their own ideas of what to do, what needs to be done etc. The instructions on these pages are meant as a guideline. They can be followed exactly as they're written, or if you prefer to adapt them to something you feel more comfortable with, then by all means do so. The steps shown here will work for everyone and will certainly help you to craete everything you need for powerful Circle casting.

Most Witches will usually start by taking a hot bath. This is not meant to be a quick dip but to be a lengthy part of the preparation needed. It's not really about getting clean, it's about getting ready. By the way, a shower is just as acceptable as taking a bath.

As you wash away the grime of the day, you should be doing more than just physically washing away the dirt. You need to visualize washing away all the stress, all the emotional and all the spiritual grime as well. remember what we said earlier. You need to be at your best to get the best out of your Circle.

You also need to ground and center to clear your head. This will stop your energy from scattering. Everyone has different ways that work for them when it comes to grounding. Do whatever works for you. Some will ground through meditation, some will use crystals to aid grounding before they meditate.

Time should also be spent in meditation. It doesn't need to be hours. 10 to 20 minutes will be quite adequate for most people. Meditation is necessary to help open and cleanse your spiritual channels. It helps to start the spiritual energy flow you will shortly need. If you are new to meditation a short basic meditation exercise can be found here.

Having got yourself nice and clean, and grounded, it's time to take the ritual bath.

The Circle - Ritual Bath

The ritual bath isn't really a bath at all. You will have already washed away the day's dirt with your hot bath before getting to this stage. The ritual bath is a personal anointing and blessing. This should always be done before performing any formal ritual.

Preparing the bath itself is easy. Simply take a bowl of warm water and add some oil(s) and herbs that are appropriate to your purpose that day. Once you have done this set the bowl down just outside the area where you intend to cast your Circle.

Relax yourself and your body by taking a few deep breaths. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. When you feel relaxed and ready, stand in front of the bath (the bowl). Turn your palms face upward and say:

O Goddess gentle and mild,
Look down and bless me, your child.

Dip your finger into the bath of water and close your eyes. Using your finger anoint your eyelids by drawing a small pentagram on each. As you do so, say:

Bless my eyes that I might see,
Your ways, your path,
How things should be.

Open your eyes, and again dip your finger into the water and then anoint your lips in the same way as before, saying:

Please bless my lips so that they may carry
Your words to people with voice light and merry.

Now anoint your breast, saying:

Bless my breast, let it be formed in strength,
Conviction and courage without bounds or length.

Anoint your loins and at the same time say:

Bless too my loins, for they carry the force
Of all life and creation that flows from your force.

Anoint your knees, and say:

So that I may kneel at your altar, please bless
My knees; keep them free of pain and duress.

Lastly, anoint the tops of your feet (or your ankles), and say:

Bless both my feet as your steps they now trace,
Keep them true to the path at a straight even pace.

Your ritual bath is now complete. The instructions here are given as a guideline to give you a general idea of what needs to be said and done. Adapt them as you see fit, or come up with a completely new set of your own

The Circle - Size & Boundaries

Most Witches will make the Circle nine feet in diameter. Ask them why and you will get many different answers. Some will say the number nine relates to the Goddess, some that nine is the wish number, some that it is the mathematical product of three squared (Triple God and triple Goddess etc.).

The nine-foot circle (for whatever reason) is actually an ideal size as it gives pleant of room to work spells and magick. However, not everyone is going to have a nine-foot circular space available.

Those that live in houses or apartments with small rooms will definitely have a problem finding the space. Although there is nothing wrong with casting the Circle outdoors (even a small yard can usually accommodate it in size), there is the problem of nosy neighbors. The last thing you want is the people next door invading your private and personal religious space.

If you can't devote that sort of space to your circle, don't worry. Simply cast a smaller Circle. The nine-foot Circle is not a prerequisite to effective magick. A smaller Circle will work just as well. It really is a case of size doesn't matter.

What does matter though, is where the boundaries are. It is a very good idea to get into the habit of marking them in some way. Candles, stones, flowers, or any combination of them will work well. Almost anything can be used.

The boundaries should always be marked so that you do not inadvertantly cross the boundary and leave the Circle when working within your sacred space. Having said that, it is possible to leave the Circle during ritual and that will be covered shortly

The Circle - Cleansing The Area

All the materials and tools have now been blessed and purified (if you haven't already done this you should do so before cleansing the area) so it is time to use them to cleanse the ritual area. Start at the East with the incense and walk around the Circle boundary (clockwise) while visualizing yellow smoke rising from the ground. As you do so, say:

By Her fragrant breath, the Air
By winds blown cold and breezes fair,
Be cleansed of all negativity.
As I will, so mote it be.

Now leave the incense to burn in place at the eastern Quarter and proceed to the South. Light the candle that is alreay there and hold it in your hand. Beginning at the South walk around the boundary again, and this time visualize red smoke rising from the ground. Say:

By Her burning will's desire
Dancing flame and burning Fire,
Be cleansed of all negativity.
As I will, so mote it be.

Now put the candle back in its Quarter and go to the altar. Pick up the bowl of water and starting with the Western Quarter, walk the boundary whilst sprinkling the water. This time visualize blue smoke and say:

By the Water that flows through Her veins
Forceful storms and gentle rains,
Be cleansed of all negativity.
As I will, so mote it be.

Leave the dish or bowl at the Western Quarter and return to the altar. Pick up the container of salt and starting in the Northern Quarter, again walk the boundary. Visualize green smoke and say:

By Earth that is Her body round
By mountain, valley, hill, and mound,
Be cleansed of all negativity.
As I will, so mote it be.

Leave the container or dish of salt in the Northern Quarter. Now go to the center of the Circle area and stand there, holding your hands out, palm upwards. Visualize a white or purple smoke and say:

By Elements of sky and ground
I purify this Circle round
By Air and Fire, by water and Earth
It's cleansed in love and light and mirth.

You are now ready to cast your Circle.

Casting The Circle

There are many different Circle casting techniques. And these will vary dramatically from tradition to tradition. The way shown here is not the only way. Far from it. But it will give you an idea of what's involved and hopefully inspire you to find something that works especially well for you.

How many passes you make around the boundary of the Circle while casting it is up to you. Circles have been cast with as few as one pass, and as many as nine. Three is probably a good starting point until you find a number you are comfortable with.

It is a smart idea to learn and memorize the casting evocation as you will be doing several things at once during casting: Walking and talking, concentrating, visualizing and so on, and so on. Know the evocation by heart and you will find it easier and not get into a muddle.

To cast the Circle go to the Eastern Quarter and with the wand, point it away from you towards the ground. Now walk in a clockwise direction around the boundary three times. Wile doing so, visualize white and/or electric blue fire spitting from the wand's end and burning the Circle boundary into the ground. As you visualize and walk, recite the evocation:

I cast you now O Circle of power,
I conjure your magick to grow and tower
Dividing the mundane world from
The world of the ancient mighty ones.
The space where magick lives and breathes
Where time and place and the mundane cease.
Between these worlds the Circle is cast
Now as one, the present, future and past.
Old ones, young ones, join now the night and day,
All that's mundane now sweep away.
All merry meet suspended in time.
This Circle is bound by the words of this rhyme.

The Circle has now been cast.

The Circle - Calling The Deities

Having called the Quarters, it is now time to invoke (entice is probably a more accurate way of putting it!) the Lord and Lady. It's a good idea to write your own invitation, the originality will undoubtedly be appreciated. This will give you a starting point however.

Stand in the center of the Circle and open your arms wide. Start by invoking the Goddess saying:

O Goddess of Moon, Goddess of Star
Ruler of planets both near and far.
Ruler of earth and all that's within,
Who sets time for life to begin.
Bringer of happiness, bringer of mirth,
Giver of value, giver of worth.
Descend to us now from above
And touch this Circle, fill it with love,
Join us now in this scared rite,
O Goddess, please bring your love and light.

At this point, pause and wait for a few seconds. Sometimes there will be a flicker of light, sometimes a braeth of a breeze. Don't worry if you don't see or feel anything. The Lady's presence will become known to you even if all you feel is a tingle in your body.

Now it is time to invoke the Lord in the same way.

O Lord of all places wild and free
Sower of seed that we might be.
he who is Sun in the heavens above,
Giver of light, giver of love.
Bringer of health and prosperity,
Who changes all as it should be.
Descend to us now from above
And touch this Circle, fill it with love,
Join us now in this scared rite,
O Lord, please bring your love and light.

Again wait a few moments.

You have now invoked both the Lord and Lady.

Deity Associations

It's not always easy deciding upon which deity to ask for help with your workings. Below is a list of which will hopefully make your choice(s) somewhat easier. The list is fairly comprehensive but if there is anything we have omitted, please let us know.

Business: Athena (F), Ebisu (M), Gaia (F), Jupiter (M), Midas (M).

Change: Bloedewydd (F), Brighid (F), Cerridwyn (F), Epona (F), Nemesis (F), Persephone (F), Rhiannon (F), Spider Woman (F), Vertumnus (M).

Childbirth: Aphrodite (F), Ariarhod (F), Brighid (F), Demeter (F), Gaia (F), Hera (F), Ilmatar (F).

Communication: Amerigin (M), Baduh (M), Bharati (F), Brighid (F), Gadel (M), Hashye-Atlye (M), Hermes (M), Hu (M), Ikto (M), Imaluris (M), Iris (F), Nabu (M), Oghma (M), Pairikas (F), Sarasvati (F).

Computer: Loki (M), Murphy (M), Thor (M), Zeus (M).

Courage: Achilles (M), Apollo (M), Ares (M), Artemis (F), Athene (F), Atlas (M), Bellora (F), Diana (F), Hercules (M), Mars (M), Morgan (F), Neith (F), Persephone (F), Perseus (M).

Creativity: Apollo (M), Artemis Calliste (F), Athena (F), Bragi (M), Brighid (F), Ilmatar (F), Odin (M), Maya (F), Minerva (F), the Muses (F), Namagiri (F), Ptah(M), Tvashtri (M), Veveteotl (M), Wayland (M).

Divination: Adrste (F), Ashtoreth (F), Bannik (M), Carmenta (F), Dione (F), Egeria (F), Evander (M), Filia Vocis (F), Gaia (F), Gwendydd (F), Inanna (F), Kwan Yin (F), Mari (F), Namagiri (F), Odin (M), Shamash (M), Thoth (M).

Fertility: Acat (M), Ahurani (F), Aima, (F), Althea (F), Amahita (F), Anat (F), Apollo (M), Arianrhod (F), Astarte (F), Atergatis (F), Baal (M), Baccus (M), Berchta (F), Bona Dea (F), Brimo (F), Ceres (F), Cupra (F), Damara (F), Demeter (F), Dionysus (M), Fortuna (F), Freya (F), Lono (F), Ma (F), Neith (F), Rhea (F), Wajwer (M).

Friendship: Hathor (F), Maitri (F), Mithras (M).

Gardening: Ceres (F), Rhea (F), Theano (F).

Gossip: Tacita (F).

Harmony: Alcyone (F), Concordia (F), Forseti (M), Harmonia (F), Kuan-Ti (M), Pax (F).

Healing & Health: Aphrodite (F), Apollo (M), Artemis (F), Asclepius (M), Brighid (F), Ceadda (M), Diancecht (M), Eir (F), Esculapius (M), Gula (F), Hygeia (F), Karusepas (F), Kedesh (F), Kwan Yin (F); Liban (F), Meditrina (F), Rhiannon (F), Salus (F), Tien Kuan (M).

Heartbreak: Apollo (M), Diana (F), Gaia (F), Luna (F), Selena (F).

Home: Bannik (M), Cardea (F), Da-Bog (M), Dugnai (F), Gucumatz (M), Hastehogan (M), Hestia (F), Kikimora (F), Neith (F), the Lares (M), Penates (M), Vesta (F).

Hunting: Apollo (M), Artemis (F), Diana (F), Vali (M), Ydalir (M).

Joy: Amaterasu (F), Ataksak (M), Baldur, Fu-Hsing (M), Hathor (F), Hotei (M), Omacatl (M), Samkhat (F), Tien Kuan (M).

Justice: Aleitheia (F), Anase (M), Apollo (M), Astraea (F), Athene (F), Farseti (M), Hecate (F), Justita (F), Ida-Ten (M), Kali (F), Ma'at (F), Mens (F), Misharu (M), Mithras (M), the Morrigan (F), Musku (M), Syn (F), Tyr (M), Varuna (M).

Knowledge: Gwion (M), Hanuman (M), Hecate (F), Hermes (M), K'uei Hsing (M), Lugh (M), Ormazd (M), Minerva (F), Mnemosyne (F), Shing Mu (F), Sia (M), Tenjin (M), Toma (F).

Liberation: Artemis (F), Carna (F), Diana (F), Libertas (F), Liberty (F), Terminus (F).

Lightning: Agni (M), Thor (M), Thunor (M), Tien Mu (F).

Love: Amun Ra (M), Anat (F), Angus (M), Aphrodite (F), Astarte (F), Belili (F), Belit-Ilanit (F), Benten (F), Cupid (M), Cybele (F), Erzulie (F), Hathor (F), Ishtar (F), Isis (F), Kama (M), Venus (F).

Luck: Agathadaimon (M), Benten (F), Bonus Eventus (M), Buddha (M), Chala (F), Diakoku (M), Felicitas (F), Fortuna (F), Gansea (M), Kichijo-Ten (F), Lakshmi (F), Muses, The, (F), Tamon (M).

Lunar Or Moon Workings: Al-lat (F), Anumati (F), Artemis (F), Ashima (F), Belili (F), Callisto (F), Diana (F), Fati (M), Gou (M), lah (M), Ilmagah (M), Jerah (F), Levanah (F), Luna (F), Mah (M), Mani (M), Re (F), Selene (F).

Lust: Aphrodite (F), Arami (F), Bes (M), Eros (M), Hathor (F), Heket (F), Indrani (F), Isis (F), Ishtar (F), Lalita (F), Lilith (F), Min (M), Pan (M), Rati (F), Venus (F), Yarilo (M).

Magical Power: Amathaon (M), Aradia (F), Ayizan (F), Cernunnos (M), Cerridwen (F), Circe (F), Dakinis (F), Demeter (F), Diana (F), Ea (M), Eterna (M), Gulleig (F), Habondia (F), Hecate (F), Herodias (F), Holle (F), Kwan Yin (F), Mari (F), Odin (M), Rangda (F), Thoth (M), Untunktahe (M).

Marriage: Aramati (F), Fides (F), Gaia (F), Hera (F), Ida (F).

New Endeavors: Amun Ra (M), Apollo (M), Brighid (F), Cerridwen (F), Iris (F), Janus (M), Laurentina (F), Muses, The (F).

Obstacles: Atlas (M), Carna (F), Janus (M), Lilith (F), Syn (F), Terminus (M).

Opportunity: Brighid (F), Carna (F), Janus (M), Syn (F).

Pets: Bast (F), Diana (F), Melusine (F), Pan (M), Rhea (F), Rhiannon (F).

Power: Atlas (M), Athena (F), Kali (F), Minerva (F), Zeus (M).

Prosperity: Anna Koun (F), Anna Perenna (F), Benten (F), Buddhi (F), Daikoku (M), Inari (M), Jambhala (M), Jupiter (M), Lakshmi (F), Ops (F), Pluto (M), Vasudhara (F).

Protection: Aditi (F), Ares (M), Atar (M), Athena (M), Auchimalgen (F), Eris (F), Hecate (F), Kali (F), Mars (M), Nahmauit (F), Padmapani (M), Prometheus (M), Sheila-na-gig (F), Shiu-Kuan (M), Syen (M), Thor (M), Zeus (M).

Psychic Ability: Apollo (M), Hecate (F), Odin (M), Psyche (F), Rowana (F), Thoth (M).

Rain: Agni (M), Gwalu (M), Mama Quilla (F), Melusine (F), Sadwes (F), Tallai (F).

Snow: Father Winter (M), Holle (F), Kriss Kringle (M).

Solar or Sun Workings: Amaterasu (F), Amun Ra (M), Apollo (M), Aya (F), Asva (F), Baldur (M), Bast (F), Bochica (M), Da-Bog (M), Dyaus (M), Eos (F), Helios (M), Hsi-Ho (F), Hyperion (M), 19a.ehindvo (F), Li (F), Maui (M), SuI (F), Sunna (F), Sunniva (F), Surya (M).

Storms: Hadad (M), Rodasi (F), Tempestus (F).

Strength: Achilles (M), Atlas (M), Hercules (M), Thor (M), Zeus (M).

Success: Anu (F), Apollo (M), Diana (F), Fortuna (F).

Thunder: Peroun (M), Zeus (M).

Travel: Beielbog (M), Ekchuah (M), Hasammelis (M), Kunado (M), Mercury (M).

Victory: Hercules (M), Korraual (F), Nike (F), PaUus Athena (F), Vijaya (F), Victoria (F).

War: Ares (M), Athena (F), Eris (F), Mars (M), Thor (M).

Wind: Aeolus (M), Awhiowhio (M), Boreas (M), Oya (F), Sarama (F).

Wisdom: Athena (F), Atri (M), Baldur (M), Bragi (M), Buddha (M), Dainichi (M), Demeter (F), Diana (F), Ea (M), Ekadzati (F), Gasmu (F), Heh (F), Metis (F), Minerva (F), Namagiri (F), Oannes (M), Persephone (F), Prajna (F), Sapientia (F), Shekinah (F), Sophia (F), Thoth (F), Victoria (F).

The Circle - Rituals

Having finally got to this point it is now time for you to perform any rituals or magickal work. This could literally be anything. It all depends on what you have in mind. There are many, many spells which could be worked at this point and only you will know what it is you need to work on. Obviously you should have your spells ready prior to this.

It is important not to leave your circle until it has been uncast or dispersed. However, that is not to say that you are forbidden to leave it. Sometimes the need will arise, whether it's a call of nature or something else entirely.

If you do need to leave the circle for any reason, you must first cut a "doorway".

Standing in the East, take the athame and literally cut a doorway shape in the air. Walk through the doorway you have created in the Circle (taking the athame with you). Once you have exited the Circle, turn and, facing the circle, use the athame to close the opening. This will seal the circle so that nothing can enter or leave while you are gone.

When you return to the circle, it is important that you follow the same procedure. Cut a doorway in the circle, step through, and close it again with the athame.

Spells

In order for you to work successful magick and spells they are four basics that are an absolute necessity: a genuine need; a deep emotional desire; the knowledge to work the spell; and the ability to visualize your goal. If these four things are present then you have everything you need to successfully perform magick. If any of the four are lacking then you will not be able to accomplish the intended result.

The objects that you will use in your spell or ritual must first be charged and empowered where necessary. Your magickal tools should already be charged, but you will need to attune with and empower any herbs, stones, or other objects that you intend to use in your magick. You can do this by holding the object in your power hand (the hand you write with) and feeling your energy and your need flow into the object.

Although it is often tempting to cut to cut corners and begin the actual spell without taking the time necessary to empower your magickal objects, this is a mistake! It is this investment of time and your personal energy which makes the spell work. Although magick takes place in the mind where your thoughts act upon the astral plane to form things which will come about the objects themselves need that astral affinity to act as a catalyst and help you focus, direct, and receive energy.

On the menu to the left you will find links to different types of spell categories. Please note, you will not find any spells here which violate the Wiccan Rede. Also, healing and health spells are not intended to replace a medical consultation and/or treatment!

The material for these spells has been gathered from a variety of sources and as far as we know there is no copyrighted material, other than our own Wiccan World crafted spells. If you hold the copyright to anything here please email support@wiccan-world.com and let us know immediately, so that it can be removed.

Wiccan World assumes no responsibility for any effects of the spells contained in these pages, although if they're performed correctly (and with good intent) there should be no problem.

Basic Binding Spell

Category:

Banishing & Binding Spells.

Purpose:

To dispel negative magick being used against you. Before rushing into this process, make sure that you know that you are being attacked magickally and by who. This should be checked through magick, divination, prayer and meditation. Once you are positive that a certain person is using negative magick against you, begin the spell.

Timing:

Waning Moon.

Items Needed:

1 x spool of black ribbon

1 x poppet of the person you intend to bind

1 x black pouch made of a tough material such as leather

1 x black candle

1 x chalice of water (rain or river water is best)

1 x piece of coal (or some other powerful stone associated with the element of earth)

1 x musk incense

1 x censer

Matches or lighter

Casting the spell:

Cast a circle.

Place the coal, water, incense, and candle around you to form the points of a square. (Rock being diagonal to incense and water being diagonal to candle). Meditate on the impact that this persons negative magick has had on your life. Once you have all of the negativities in your mind, hold the poppet in your receptive (left) hand, and slowly, starting at the feet, wrap the poppet in black ribbon, as if it were a mummy. Be sure to leave no spot exposed. As you wrap, chant the following:

With (name's) own evil does s/he her/himself bind,
his/her magick powers s/he shall not find!

As you chant and wrap, visualize all the negativity from the magick that this person has cast flowing into the ribbon that binds the poppet. Once the poppet is totally wrapped, place it in the pouch and draw it shut. Now proclaim in a loud voice:

(Name) has been bound in the presence of the elements and the gods. May s/he remain as such until this poppet again sees the light of day. So mote it be!

Close the circle.

Store the pouch with the bound poppet in a dark place. When you decide to un-bind it, take the pouch into the noon sun of the waxing moon and unwrap the poppet. Visualize the negativity tied in the ribbon disintegrating in the light of the sun. Say the following:

(Name) is now unbound, a creature of free will in magick and in heart. Blessed be!

Please realize that bindings do not always work! It may take multiple attempts at binding a person before it actually takes. For this reason, you should NEVER let the subject of your binding spell know what you plan to do or have done. Since they obviously have already dabbled in negative magick, the recourse could be literally disastrous.

Dawn Dew Spell

Category:

Beauty Spells.

Purpose:

To make your inner beauty shine.

Timing:

Dawn when the moon is waxing on any day but Saturday.

Items Needed:

1 x green tealight (or small votive candle) in a jar

A grass meadow full of dew

Matches or lighter

Casting the spell:

At dawn the sun will be rising in the east which will give you the basic compass directions. Bow to the east, the south, the west, and the north saying as you do:

To the east I honor the element of air.
To the south I honor the element of fire.
To the west I honor the element of water.
To the north I honor the element of earth.

Lift your eyes and arms to face the sun and say:

To the center of all I honor the element of spirit.

Light the green tealight and say:

I call upon the essence of this meadow
And the spirit of nature
To reflect in me
The beauty that is yours.

Gather dew from the grass with both hands and bathe your face with it. Repeat this action nine times reciting the above words each time.

Blow out the tealight or candle and take it home with you. At sunset relight the tealight and allow it to burd out completely.

The Circle - Cakes & Wine Blessing

After ritual magick has been performed it is common practice to bless and consecrate cakes and wine, although cookies and juice (or similar) may be used if you prefer. To perform this ceremony the plate of cakes should be held out in front of you saying:

I conjure you, O meal of grain
Who sprouted in both sun and rain.
Whose ancient seed fulfills us all
Bringing new life wheree'r it falls.
I bless you in this Circle round
That your abundance may abound
To feed this world continuously
As I will, so mote it be.

Eat one of the cakes. Or, if you are not alone in the Circle, take a bite and pass the plate on to the next person saying "Blessed be". After each person has repeated the process, place the plate of cakes on the altar and fill your cup with wine. Holding the cup out in front of you, say:

I conjure you, O fruit of vine
Who grew with wind and rain, and time.
From nought but light of sun
Then light of moon when day was done.
I bless you in this Circle round
That your abundance may abound
To feed this world continuously
As I will, so mote it be.

Drink the wine unless you are not alone, in which case take a sip and pass it on in the same way as the cakes. When the wine returns to you, place it on the altar. Two cakes and some wine should now be put aside for outdoor libation. Any cake or wine remaining can now be shared with everyone else in the Circle.

The Circle - Releasing The Deities

After the cakes and wine blessing it is time to thank the Lord and Lady for their presence and to release them (should they wish to go). Although they may well stick around. Politeness counts and the best way is to let them know you are almost done with the ritual and give them the choice of leaving. To complete this part of the ritual, stand in the center of the Circle and open your arms wide. Start by thanking and releasing the Lady saying:

O Goddess of Moon, Goddess of Star
Ruler of planets both near and far.
Ruler of earth and all that's within,
Who sets the time for life to begin.
Bringer of happiness, bringer of mirth,
Giver of value, giver of worth.
We thank you for your presence here
and hold you in our hearts so dear.
With our love you now, you may go
Or stay if you should deem it so.

Having thanked and released the Lady, thank and release the Lord.

O Lord of all places wild and free
Sower of seed that we might be.
he who is Sun in the heavens above,
Giver of light, giver of love.
Bringer of health and prosperity,
Who changes all as it should be.
We thank you for your presence here
and hold you in our hearts so dear.
With our love you now, you may go
Or stay if you should deem it so.

You have now released the deities.

The Circle - Releasing The Quarters

The Quarters are much easier to release. In order to release the Quarters, start at the East with your wand and point its tip due East up into the air and say:

O swirling breezes, winds of the East
Who protected this Circle and witnessed all feats
Of magick performed and blessings poured out,
We thank you for coming and and gathering about.
Now comes the time for the Circle to end,
With love and fond wishes it's now that we send
You back to the realm over which you do reign
Farewell and goodbye 'til we see you again.

Draw a banishing pentagram in the air with the wand. Kiss your wand and proceed to the Southern Quarter and say:

O Southerly fires, O Southerly flames.
Who protected this Circle and witnessed all claims
Of magick performed and blessings poured out,
We thank you for coming and and gathering about.
Now comes the time for the Circle to end,
With love and fond wishes it's now that we send
You back to the realm over which you do reign
Farewell and goodbye 'til we see you again.

Again, draw a banishing pentagram in the air with the wand. Kiss your wand and proceed to the Western Quarter and releasethe Guardians in the same way but this time saying:

O Oceans and storms, streams of the West.
Who protected this Circle and witnessed all guests
And magick performed and blessings poured out,
We thank you for coming and and gathering about.
Now comes the time for the Circle to end,
With love and fond wishes it's now that we send
You back to the realm over which you do reign
Farewell and goodbye 'til we see you again.

Once again draw a banishing pentagram in the air with the wand. Kiss your wand and proceed to the Northern Quarter and again release the Guardians saying:

O Northern forests, mountains and plains.
Who protected this Circle and witnessed all gains
Of magick performed and blessings poured out,
We thank you for coming and and gathering about.
Now comes the time for the Circle to end,
With love and fond wishes it's now that we send
You back to the realm over which you do reign
Farewell and goodbye 'til we see you again.

You have now released all Quarters.

The Circle - Libation To The Deities

The Circle has been released or closed and the rite has ended. However, there is still one last act to perform. It's called the "libation to the Lord and Lady" and is an important part of finishing the ritual. In a way it's giving something back to those who have given their time, love and energy to you.

Take the cakes and wine that you put aside on the altar earlier and go outside. Put the cakes on the ground and then pour the wine on top of them. As you are pouring the wine say:

By moon and sun and sky above
I offer these in perfect love.
By fire and earth, by rain and gust
I offer these in perfect trust.
Please take the gifts offered now to you
In thanks for love and time and all you do.
For all the gifts you've given me
Lord and lady, blessed be.

The Circle ritual may seem complex and involved and so it is. There is a lot to it when you take into account aa the necessary preparations and stages. But like so much else in this world, if it's worth doing, do it well. Having said that it can be adapted as you desire but don't pare it down too much. It is such an important ritual it deserves the effort that is made to perform it.

The Circle ritual is now complete and once again you are back in the everyday world. Hopefully with a successful day's magick behind you

The Circle - Calling The Quarters

Although the Circle is now cast, you are still not ready to start spellwork, rituals or magick. Even though the Guardian (or Watchtower) symbols are in place, it is still necessary to invite the Guardians themselves to join the ritual. This is usually called "calling the Guardians". The reasons for this are twofold. Firstly, the Guiardians will lend the qualities or properties of their respective Elements to the Circle. And secondly, they will "stand guard" over the Circle, watching and waiting, ready to prevent negative energy from entering and interfering. Hence their name - Watchtower Guardians.

In order to call the Quarters, start at the East with your wand and point its tip due East up into the air and say:

Come to us now, O winds of the East
Whirl and swirl 'til the magick has ceased.
Blow through our hearts, and energy raise,
Blow away clouds, blow away haze.
The Circle is open, your power please lend,
Your presence is welcomed - we bid you come in.

Draw an invoking pentagram in the air with the wand. Visualize the Circle filling with a yellow light. Kiss your wand and proceed to the Southern Quarter and again call the Guardians in the same way but this time saying:

Come to us now, O Southerly fires.
Pure strength and warm light - add flames to desires.
Cleanse and purify all that's mundane.
Protect this Circle with pure light and flame.
The Circle is open, your power please lend,
Your presence is welcomed - we bid you come in.

Again, draw an invoking pentagram in the air with the wand. Visualize the Circle filling with a red light. Kiss your wand and proceed to the Western Quarter and again call the Guardians in the same way but this time saying:

Come to us now, O waters of the Western port.
Tides rise and fall, all harm abort.
Wash away troubles, rinse away pain.
W ash over our spirits with oceans and rain.
The Circle is open, your power please lend,
Your presence is welcomed - we bid you come in.

Once again draw an invoking pentagram in the air with the wand. Visualize the Circle filling with a blue light. Kiss your wand and proceed to the Northern Quarter and again call the Guardians saying:

Come earthen power, come from the North.
Lend your strength, lend your support.
As your soil is fertile, this Circle shall be
Nourish all works, as you nourish the tree.
The Circle is open, your power please lend,
Your presence is welcomed - we bid you come in.

You have now called the Quarters and are ready to invoke the Lord and Lady.

Closing The Circle

The Circle was cast in a clockwise direction staring in the East. It is common practice to close the Circle in a counterclockwise direction starting in the North. Only one pass is necessary to close it.

To close and release the Circle, stand in the North quarter with the wand tip pointed at the ground. Effectively you are doing the reverse of casting. Visualize the same white and/or electric blue flame used during creation, only this time visualize it being sucked up into the wand.

Slowly walk the full boundary of the Circle saying:

The Circle, though open, remains unbroken,
Remaining to protect from all unspoken.
In perfect love, in perfect trust,
Now we leave to do all we must.
merry we met, and merry we part
Until we meet again with joy in heart.

When you reach North again, pause for a moment and then go to the center of the Circle and say:

This rite has ended and I go in love,
With thanks to the Lord and Lady above.
With thanks to the Elements and Others too,
Merry part with brightest blessings to you.

The Circle has now been closed and released.

Trees - Celtic Astrology

Celtic astrology is based on the lunar cycle and hence the year is divided into thirteen months. Each month was associated with a tree that was sacred to the Druids. Each also had a corresponding letter of the Ogham alphabet, a Guardian Animal and a Celtic God.

24th December - 20th January: The Birch.

Birch people are ambitious, determined, and resilient. YThey make good leaders, organizers and strategists. Setbacks do not deter them for they believe that all is possible through hard work and patience. They are somewhat reserved when it comes to showing affection, but are loyal.

21st January - 17th February: The Rowan.

Rowan people are idealistic and progressive thinkers. They have strong humanitarian and spiritual convictions. They are not afraid of change and in fact, thrive on it. Prone to being impatient with conventional or restrictive principles. They are artistic and original. They can appear to be somewhat aloof or detached.

18th February - !7th March: The Ash.

Ash people are very quick witted, gregarious and spontaneous. They have a natural and lively curiosity and are intellgent. They are persuasive speakers, naturally enthusiastic and have good communication skills. They are very enthusiastic about discussing new ideas and projects.

18th March - 14th April: The Alder.

Alder people are very courageous and energetic. They can be impetuous at times but are always determinded to make their own way in the world. They are self-reliant and adventurous. They love taking risks and are tenacious workers. They inspire loyalty in others and are affectionate and charming,

15th April - 12th May: The Willow.

Willow people are strong willed and resourceful. They can be very emotional and at times distinctly enigmatic. They are quick witted and can be prone to sudden mood swings.

13th May - 9th June: The Hawthorn.

Hawthorn people are gifted performers and exude a natural charm. They are confident individuals who are creative and innovative. They love mental stimulation and challenge and become easily bored if this is missing.

10th June - 7th July: The Oak.

Oak people tend to be serious minded but are nearly always cheerful and optimistic. They are determined and do not give up easily. They are natural leaders and always remain calm in a crisis. They are determined, self-motivated, enthusiastic and take responsibilty for their actions.

8th July - 4th August: The Holly.

Holly people are supportive and protective within relationships but can be possessive at times. They have a practical nature and are capable and steadfast when faced with adversity. They tend to be cautious although they have a good head for business and prefer to assist rather than lead.

5th August - 1st September: The Hazel.

Hazel people are artistic and have lively, analytical minds. They make inspiring, imaginative teachers. They are radical and idealistic thinkers.

2nd September - 29th September: The Vine.

Vine people set high personal standards. They are discriminating and authoritative and as a result can appear cool and detached. They are however, secret romantics and can be sensitive, vulnerable and self critical. They have an eye for detail and refined aesthetic taste.

30th September - 27th October: The Ivy.

Although they can often be indecisive, ivy people are not weak and will tackle difficult tasks with an infectious optimism. They are sociable and good natured and win friends easily. They dislike offending others.

28th October - 24th November: The Reed.

Reed people are very complex individuals. They are tenacious and fearless. They have great strength of character and are not prone to compromise their beliefs just to placate others. They are very independent and proud.

25th November - 23rd December: The Elder.

Elder people are very self-sufficient. They thrive on change and need constant mental and physical challenge. They will not be pressured by others and dislike routine of any kind. They tend to be restless and highly energetic with phenomanal stamina when it comes to getting the job done.

Trees - Magickal Properties

Alder: Has protective and oracular powers.

Apple: Useful for love and healing magick.

Ash: Used in spells requiring focus and strength of purpose.

Beech: Use beech for gaining insight and guidance from the past.

Birch: Most useful for fertility and healing spells.

Blackthorn: Use for interpreting outside influences.

Elder: Use for any magick that involves a beginning or end to a cycle.

Elm: Use for spells where stability or grounding are important.

Fir: Use when the future needs to be determined.

Hawthorn: Use for protection, love and marriage spells.

Hazel: Use for gaining knowledge, inspiration and wisdom.

Holly: Use for any spell related to sleep, rest, or easing the passage of death.

Larch: Use for protection spells and enhancing visions.

Maple: Use for abundance and success spells.

Oak - Brown: Use for protection, stqability, strength, and success spells.

Oak - Red: Use for strength spells.

Oak - White: Use for strength and solidity spells.

Pine: Use for spells concering personal issues and guilt.

Poplar: Use for any communication, shielding, or resistance spells.

Rowan: Use for protection against enchantment spells.

Willow: Use for spells connected with cycles and rhythms.

Yew: Use for spells that enhance magickal and psychic ability, or induce visions.

The Ritual Bath

The ritual bath isn't really a bath at all. You will have already washed away the day's dirt with a hot bath before getting to this stage. The ritual bath is sinply a personal anointing and blessing which should always be done before performing any formal ritual.

Preparing the bath itself is very easy. Simply take a bowl of warm water and add some oil(s) and herbs that are appropriate to your purpose that day. Once you have done this, set the bowl down just outside the area where you intend to cast your Circle.

Relax yourself and your body by taking a few deep breaths. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. When you feel calm, relaxed and ready, stand in front of the bath (the bowl). Turn your palms face upward and say:

O Goddess gentle and mild,
Look down and bless me, your child.

Dip your finger into the bowl of water and close your eyes. Using your finger anoint your eyelids by drawing a small pentagram on each. As you do so, say:

Bless my eyes that I might see,
Your ways, your path,
How things should be.

Open your eyes, and again dip your finger into the water and then anoint your lips in the same way as before, saying:

Please bless my lips so that they may carry
Your words to people with voice light and merry.

Now anoint your breast, saying:

Bless my breast, let it be formed in strength,
Conviction and courage without bounds or length.

Anoint your loins and at the same time say:

Bless too my loins, for they carry the force
Of all life and creation that flows from your force.

Anoint your knees, and say:

So that I may kneel at your altar, please bless
My knees; keep them free of pain and duress.

Lastly, anoint the tops of your feet (or your ankles), and say:

Bless both my feet as your steps they now trace,
Keep them true to the path at a straight even pace.

Your ritual bath is now complete. The words here are given as a guideline to give you a general idea of what needs to be said and done. You may adapt them as you see fit, or come up with a completely new set of your own

Yule Ritual

The altar is adorned with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, bay, juniper and cedar, and the same can be laid to mark the Circle of Stones. Dried leaves can also be placed on the altar.

The cauldron, resting on the altar on a heat proof surface (or placed before it if too large), should be filled with ignitable spirit (alcohol), or a red candle can be placed within it. At outdoor rites, lay a fire within the cauldron to be lit during ritual.

Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and cast the Circle of Stones.

Recite the Blessing Chant.

Invoke the Goddess and God.

Stand before the cauldron and gaze within it. Say these or similar words:

I sorrow not,
though the world is wrapped in sleep.
I sorrow not,
though the icy winds blast.
I sorrow not,
though the snow falls hard and deep.
I sorrow not,
this too shall soon be past.

Ignite the cauldron (or candle), using long matches or a taper. As the flame(s) leap up say:

I light this fire in Your honor, Mother Goddess
You have created life from death;
warmth from cold;
The Sun lives once again;
the time of light is waxing.
Welcome,
ever returning God of the Sun!
Hail Mother of All!

Circle the altar and cauldron slowly, clockwise, watching the flames. Say the following chant for some time:

The wheel turns; the power burns.

Meditate upon the Sun, on the hidden energies lying dormant in winter, not only in the Earth but within ourselves. Think of birth not as the start of life but as its continuance. Welcome the return of the God. After a time cease and stand once again before the altar and flaming caldron. Say:

Great God of the Sun,
I welcome Your return.
May You shine brightly upon the Goddess;
May You shine brightly upon the Earth,
scattering seeds and fertilizing the land.
All blessings upon You,
Reborn One of the Sun!

Works of magick, if necessary, may follow. Celebrate the Simple Feast, the release the Circle.

Scott Cunningham, "A Guide For The Solitary Practitioner

INVOCATION OF THE MOON GODDESS by Doreen Valiente

Diana, queen of night,
In all your beauty bright,
Shine on us here,
And with your silver beam
Unlock the gate of dream;
Rise bright and clear.
On earth and sky and sea,
Your magic mystery
Its spell shall cast,
Wherever leaf may grow,
Wherever tide may flow,
Till all be past.
O secret queen of power,
At this enchanted hour
We ask your boon.
May fortune's favor fall
Upon true witches all,
O Lady Moon!

EARTH,WATER,FIRE,AIR

The Earth, the Water, the Fire, the Air
Returns, returns, returns.
The Earth, the Water, the Fire, the Air
Returns, returns, returns.

Ah yay, Ah yay, Ah yay, Ah yay,
Ah yo, Ah yo, Ah yo, Ah yo,
Ah yay, Ah yay, Ah yay, Ah yay,
Ah yo, Ah yo, Ah yo, Ah yo.

Hoof & Horn

Hoof and Horn, Hoof and Horn,
All that dies shall be re-born
Vine and Grain, Vine and Grain

We all come from the Goddess
And to her we shall return
Like a drop of water
Flowing to the ocean

We all come from the Godess
And to her we shall return
Like a drop of water
Flowing to the endless sea ( Thanks sorcelle )

MORE PAGAN CHANTS

EARTH MY BODY

Earth my body,
Water my blood,
Air my breath,
And Fire my spirit.

THE GODDESS CHANT

Isis, Asarte, Diana, Hecate, Demeter, Kali, Innana

Parting Song

The Circle is Open, But Unbroken,
May the Lord and the Lady be Ever in your Heart!
Merry Meet and Merry Part,
and Merry Meet Again!

Make Me Strong In Spirit

Make me strong in spirit
Courageous in action
Gentle of heart
Let me act in wisdom
Conquer my fear and doubt
Discover my own hidden gifts
Meet others with compassion
Be a source of healing energies
And face each day with hope and joy
~ Abby Willowroot © 1998

Prayers

A MORNING PRAYER
Oh Great Goddess
Bless this day
Keep me safe and whole
Oh Great Goddess
Bless my path
Help me to act on thy wisdom
Oh Great Goddess
Bless my family
All life on this Earth
~ Abby Willowroot © 1999

NIGHT PRAYER
Thank You Great Goddess for this day
for the blessings and lessons that came my way
May my sleep be peaceful in dreams and rest
and tomorrow may I do my best
~ Abby Willowroot © 1999

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