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WICCA/WITCHCRAFT LESSONS
By Amethsyt HearthWitch
LESSON 1
Why are so many people turning away from the religions and beliefs of the modern world in order to embrace the Old Religion of Witchcraft? Could it be that such people are looking for a life enhancing way to develope their own personal power?Wicca is a simple practice which gets massive results.Whatever the object of improvement in your life,Witchcraft can make it happen for you.All you need to know is how and when to use it.These lessons will show you just that,and will guide you step by step into the power of Witchcraft and the life enhancing practice of Wicca.Over the next 10 lessons you will learn how to invoke the masculine and feminine aspects of nature to help improve your life.You will learn about sacred space and how to set up an alter,plus the importance of the lunar cycle.Also included in the course are the teachings of candle magick,spell casting,element and natural magick,divination and protection and purification rituals not forgetting of course,self initiation and dedication rites.If you follow the instructions carefully and practice the spells and rituals then by the end of lesson ten you will be a fully fledged working witch.And perhaps more importantly you will begin to see the benefits of Witchcraft manifesting within your own life.You will then be ready to move onto more advanced wiccan teachings.I hope you reap the benefits of the knowledge within the following lessons.May your life be full of peace and joy.
COMING INTO WICCA
One of the first questions people ask is What exactly is Wicca?Basically Wicca is the modern interpretation of what was once known as the Old Religion,namely Witchcraft.It is a Goddess oriented religion which encompasses both a true reverence for nature and the practice of magick.These aspects together make up Wicca.Even though the laws against the practice of Witchcraft were revoked in 1951,many prejudices and misconceptions still stand,and for some reason the terms Wicca and Wiccan are far more socially acceptable than Witchcraft and Witch,however there are no hard or fast rules and you can use whichever term you feel comfortable with.Many myths still exist about Witches and those who practice the Craft.Perhaps the most widely believed and certainly the most dangerous is the belief that Witches use magick to hurt,harm and kill people.This is certainly NOT true.Any person who claims to be a Witch and then uses their power to hurt another living creature is definitely not treading the Wiccan way.Witchcraft is a gentle practice full of love and joy,peace and balance.We live our lives and cast our spells in such a way as adheres to the Wiccan Rede "AN IT HARM NONE,DO WHAT THOU WILL".This basically means that if it harms no other living creature,then do as you will.The word 'harm' here incorporates such things as trying to change anothers free will or attempting to gain power over another human being.Witches also believe in The Rule of Three"EVER MIND THE RULE OF THREE-WHAT THOU SENDS OUT,COMES BACK TO THEE".This rule states that whatever a Witch does either in daily life or in rituals/magickal practices comes back to her threefold.A pretty good reason then why true Witches send out only kind and loving thoughts,actions and spells.This concept is also known as KARMA.These are the first two rules of Witchcraft and you should learn them,memorise them and begin living by them immediately.
THE GODDESS
As we said earlier Witchcraft is a Goddess oriented religion.Maybe this is why so many modern women are attracted to Wicca,women tired of the masculine dominance that still occurs and accepted throughout society.Witchcraft gives such women the chance to discover and prove their own power and strengths.However,there are lots of men involved in Wiccan practices too,and Witchcraft is just as beneficial to the male Witch as it it to the female-yes a man is called a Witch too,not a warlock as is commonly thought.A Witch is a Witch,no matter what the sex,colour,creed or race. Witches believe in the balance of nature and we strive to achieve this balance in our lives.To a Wiccan,the feminine aspect of the Universe is known as the Goddess.She is the womb of the world and the source of all life.She is Gaia,Mother Nature,Mother Earth.She is the Silver Lady of the moon and stars and the force that rules the tides and the female menstrual cycle.The Goddess is the Mother of us all,and all acts of nurturing from creating a herb garden to parenting and child-care,fall under her domain. As the Silver Lady of the moon,the Goddess has three aspects,which correspond to the lunar cycle and the three stages of a women's life.They are Maiden,Mother and Crone,collectively known as the Triple Goddess.The waxing moon is the time of the Maiden,young, fresh,eager for life and adventure.By the full moon she is the Mother,providing abundance,bringing fulfillment and balance,before becoming the Crone at the time of the waning moon.The Crone brings wisdom,secrets,protection and sometimes destruction.As a working Witch you will need to become familiar with the powers of the Goddess so that you can incorporate this power into your spell casting.The best way to do this is to use an invocation.Before beginning,clear your mind of all thoughts and relax,concentrating on your breathing.when you feel calm and tranquil begin the invocation.
INVOKING THE GODDESS
Go to a place where you can see the moon,either outside or through a window.Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and raise your arms high above your head.Spread your fingers wide pointing them skywards,and tilt your head back slightly.This is known as the Goddess position.Now say the following words out loud or in your head,whichever feels the most comfy for you;
"IN THIS RIGHT AND READY HOUR
I CALL UPON THE GODDESS POWER
SILVER LADY OF THE MOON
COME TO ME AS A PRECIOUS BOON
HERE NOW I STAND ALONE
AWAITING MAIDEN,MOTHER,CRONE
I INVOKE THEE,I INVOKE THEE,I INVOKE THEE"
Stand a while and feel the feminine aspects of self and all nature fill you.Attune with these feminine vibrations,learn to recognise them,for you will soon come to use them in your magickal practices.
THE GOD
As Witchcraft is about balance,Wiccans also believe in a God.He is the masculine aspect of the Universe,and is far,far older than the God of Christianity.The God is second only to the Goddess,but this does not mean inferior.He is all strength,all-powerful,as is the Goddess.To keep the balance of life they are as one.They are equal and the God is second only in the sense that Wicca is a Goddess oriented religion,and many Witches focus more on the Goddess as the Mother of All.However,we recognise the God as being just as important to the Universe as he is the Seed of All Life.He is the Golden God of the sun traveling across our horizon on his endless journey.He is the Sky Father,the spirit of the hunt and the tender of wild animals.He is the seed that is sown,ripened and harvested.He is the summer cornfield,the apples,pears and pumpkins of autumn.As Lord of the Greenwood,his domains include forests and dells,woods and groves.See his strength in the mountains,feel his heat in the desert.As the Goddess births and nurtures,so the God presides over mating,procreation and sexual urges.Together they are Fertility.
INVOKING THE GODAfter stilling your mind and releasing all stress through concentration on your breathing,go to a place where the sun is shining.This could be outdoors in your garden or somewhere you feel at peace or indoors by a sunny window.Stand with your feet together,your spine straight and your shoulders back.Clench your hands into fists and place your arms across your chest,right over left,to form a X shape.Your hands should rest just below your collar bone.This is the God position.Silently meditate on the sun for a while and then preform the following invocation;-
"HAIL AS THE WITCH'S WORD
CALLS UPON THE GOLDEN GOD
SKY FATHER,GREENWOOD LORD
VISIT ME NOW IN YOUR ABODE
IN YOUR LIGHT I FREELY STAND
ABSORBING THE MAGICK OF THE LAND
I INVOKE THEE,I INVOKE THEE,I INVOKE THEE."
Feel the strength of masculinity fill you.Know that your life can be filled with sunshine.Attune to the God and welcome him into your life.You have now learnt how to invoke the masculine and feminine aspects of the Universe.Repeat this process for one weel on a daily basis.Learn to recognise the differences in masculine and feminine energies.Attune with the Goddess and God and remember that you are working with the all-powerful energies that keep our world in existence.Feel free to ask that these energies help you in areas of your life that you wish to change or improve.This is what Witchcraft is all about after all-life affirming improvement for the good of all.Have faith in the powers of creation,know that you can create your own life,for with such strength on your side,how can you fail.
THE POWER
It is a sad fact that many people feel as if the tide of life is sweeping them along and they are powerless to stop it.All too often these people are being 'swept' in the direction they least want to go and they are left with poverty,loneliness and unhappiness as their only firends.If you feel that this is you,then read on-your life changes right here.First of all,NO ONE is powerless.NO ONE is 'swept' along,Your life is exactly what you have made it.If there are aspects of your life that you are not very happy with change them.Wicca is about empowerment.Within you,you have the power to change your life.HOW? By realizing and accepting that you are a powerful being and you can create your own life.Simple realization of this fact will begin opening doors you never knew were there.Making a positive statement every morning on waking can have dramatic effects.For the next 30 days(it takes that long to replace negative thoughts with positive ones) say to yourself;
"I AM A POWERFUL BEING.I AM IN TOUCH WITH MY OWN PERSONAL POWER AND I WILL USE IT TO ENHANCE AND IMPROVE MY LIFE.I CAN EMPOWER MYSELF ANY MOMENT SIMPLY BY RECALLING THIS FACT".
Repeat this procedure on waking and before you go to bed.Very soon you will begin to feel your own personal power stirring deep within you.You will need to awaken this power before doing any type of spell work.
THE WITCH'S PYRAMID
In order to perform any type of magic successfully you must become familiar with what is known as The Witch's Pyramid.This is the standard procedure for any type of spell casting or magickal work and it is as follows,to know,to dare,to will,to be silent;
1.TO KNOW-to have the knowledge of Witchcraft.To know which type of magic is best for any given situation.
2.TO DARE-to dare to perform spells and magickal workings
3.TO WILL-to will spells to manifest into your life
4.TO BE SILENT-to be silent about all spells you perform Many witches believe that to discuss a magickal procedure lessens its power and seriously effects its chances of manifestation.
CONCLUSION
To be a working Witch you must believe that you can perform magick and that you can create change.You must begin working on yourself now,by increasing your self confidence(or losing the EGO),changing your negative thought patterns for positive ones,stopping bad habits and breaking addictions.All these things will help to create balance in your life.You are now a fledgling Witch,taking your first steps towards empowerment and the Wiccan Way.Practice the concepts in these lessons daily that you may be ready for the rest of the course that follows.
Ten questions for you to answer
1.Give a brief definition of Wicca?
2.What are the three aspects of Wicca?
3.When were the laws against Witchcraft revoked?
4.What is the Wiccan Rede & what does it mean?
5.What is the second rule of Witchcraft?
6.What is a male Wiccan known as?
7.What are the 3 aspects of the Triple Goddess and what does each represent?
8.Who is more superior,the Goddess or the God?
9.What is the Witch's Pyramid?
10.Where can you find the power?
LESSON 2
In the second lesson on Witchcraft,we will be discussing the Witch's magickal tools,and ritual clothing.We will also talk about choosing a magickal name,which you will need to do before performing the Initiation ritual at the end of this lesson.Plus you will begin to create your own Book of Shadows,if you have not already done so.
THE TOOLS
Before we begin,none of the tools are completely essential.Please remember that there was Witchcraft long before there were any shops that sold these tools. Tools are nice things to have and it can be a joy to collect them as you go along in your studies,but the real test or working magick is when you have only yourself,your personal power and the powers of the Universe to get you out of a sticky situation.A real Witch can zap without tools and still obtain the desired result.So collect the magickal tools by all means but don't run up a huge debt as this will create unbalance in your finances,and as you should know by now,Wicca is about balance in all aspects of your life.During the Burning times,it was extremely important that the Witch's tools looked just like ordinary household items.Often one's life depended on it as "proof of working Witchcraft" meant certain death.So until you have managed to collect actual magickal tools,you could probably use items from your own kitchen.For example instead of a cauldron use a large dark coloured oven proof dish and so on.Never fell that you have to wait until you have collected all your magickal tools before you can work magick.Those that wait till tomorrow never become real Witches.Those of you who act today using whatever limited means you have, will be the Wiccans of the future.A good way to find magickal tools is to go to psychic fares and second hand shops.Often you can find some things that will serve you as magickal tools tucked away in a corner of the shop.When you do find something hold it in your hands and make sure it feels right.
THE ATHAME
The Athame is the magickal knife that is used to cast circles and direct power.It is never used for cutting anything therefore it's blade is dulled,although it can be used to inscribe Runes and Magickal symbols onto candles and wands.It is generally believed that the athame should have a black handle as black absorbs power.However many Witches use athames made of steel,pewter or even ivory,so it is up to you which type of knife you choose.You could even choose one with a dragons head or one that you have a close affinity with.But whatever you do choose tradition states that the blade should be double edged and dulled.The athame corresponds to the element of Fire when used to cast circles,it will ensure protection for the Witch during ritual and magickal workings.It also represents the male aspect of the All.
THE WAND
There are many types of wands available and prices range from reasonable to not so reasonable.If you do but a wand then a crystal wand is most suitable because it is excellent for all types of spells.It should have a round and cloudy crystal at one end and a clear and pointed crystal at the other.If you prefer a wooden wand then simply go out into nature and look for one.Traditionally the wand should be made of hazel wood,but any fallen branch that you can find and like the feel of will do just as well.When you take it home you can decorate it to make it personal to you.The wand corresponds to the element Air.It too can be used to cast circles,but its power is gentler than that of the athame.The wand is used as a receptor of power or to direct more gentle power such as when a plant is looking ill for example.
THE BROOM
Yes,Witches do use brooms in magick.although we cannot fly them which is a shame.Brooms are used to sweep the negativity out of the circle area before magick is performed.They can also be used as a symbol of protection for your home.Many garden center's and dried flower shops carry brooms so you should not have any problems buying one.You could decorate one and hang it in your kitchen to protect the home or you could place it outside your door in the garden as a sign to the elements that you wish to become aquainted with their power.
THE PENTACLE
This is perhaps one os the most important tools you will collect.The pentacle is a flat disc made from natural material such as wood or clay,which has been inscribed with the pentagram or five pointed star.The pentacle corresponds to the element of Earth.it represents the materialistic side of the world and is invaluable when casting spells of prosperity and abundance.It can also be used in protection spells and to empower talismans,charms and other magickal objects,by placing them in the center of the pentagram.When not in use the pentacle should remain upright at all times.You could make your own using modeling clay,or in an emergency simply draw one on paper.It will be just as effective.
THE CHALICE
As may be expected the chalice is the representation of the water element.It also represents the female aspect of the All.Chalices are usually long stemmed and are used to hold the cider or wine for ritual work.Of course you could always use a piece of table glassware providing it has a long stem.
THE CAULDRON
The cauldron is the symbol of the Goddess,it is often associated with death and rebirth,or a change of some sort,therefore it is an excellent tool to use for spells of transformation of one self.The cauldron is also used for scrying,by filling it with water and gazing in at its endless depths.When buying a cauldron,remember the following points,it should be dark in colour,black is preferred and it must be made of heat proof material so that it can hold hot liquids and also take the heat of any small fire spells which you may have to perform on occasions.
DIVINATION TOOLS
Divination is a skill,with practice the 'art of seeing'can be learned by anyone.Most Witches have an array of divination tools and you will find that you will add to your own collection over the years.Choose the type of tool that appeals to you the most and begin with that.For example I use tarot cards,I have about 4 packs of different tarot and I keep adding to them when I see a pack that feels right to me.I also use a crystal pendulum,I have yet to buy a crystal ball,its just finding the right one that takes time and effort.If finances are an object you can use a plain bowl of water or if you prefer you can gaze into the flame of a candle for scrying purposes.Witchcraft need not be expensive.
SKYCLAD
Contrary to popular belief not all Witches work naked.This is entirely a matter of preference.Nor are expensive ritual robes necessary either.It is acceptable to work in your PJ's a special black dress or nothing at all.It really is entirely up to you and what you feel most comfortable in.Remember-the Witch is the magick-everthing else is secondary to her/him.
CONSUMABLES
Most Wiccans have these in the home as a matter of fact.these include Candles, Incense and Oils.Candles help you to relax before doing any magickal work and they give a warmth around the home when lit.It is wise to have an array of different colours but this can be expensive so a couple of boxes of white kitchen candles and a couple of boxes of tealights to begin with are fine.You can make your home feel magickal at the end of any day by setting aside a couple of hours candle time.Incense is an age old fragrance and has great use in magickal spells.A couple of packs of incense sticks will be enough to get you started but make sure the fragrance is pleasing to you.Oils are slightly more expensive and come in three different types;essential oils,perfumed oils and magickal oils.If you would like to use oils then essential oils are your best bet as they have a wider range of uses and can be used in magickal spells.in lamp rings and burners to fragrance a room,in a bath or as a rub for relaxation purposes and they have medicinal properties.Start with the best oil of all ;Lavender and read up as much as you can about aromatherapy and essential oils.
CHOOSING A MAGICKAL NAME
You can let your imagination run wild, your magickal name should be something that strikes a cord with you,as it is a way of recognizing the new you and the path that you have chosen to lead.You can find your name by reading through myths and legends or looking at nature.Anything goes as long as it is comfortable to you and increases your sense of power.you should keep your name a secret or tell those of a like mind.You can have more than one magickal name also.
CREATING A BOOK OF SHADOWS
The Book of Shadows is your magickal diary.In it you will write out your workings,copy poems or spells as you come across them and generally record your life as a Witch in it.You will need a large A4 note book,or a ring binder and refill pad.The latter is perhaps the best as you will be able to move pages around and reorganize it as you increase your knowledge of the Craft,On the first page you must write the purpose of the book and your magickal name,so it reads something like this;
Book of Shadows
by the Witch
Amethyst HearthWitch
in her hand of write
On the second page you should write out the following book Blessing;
"I AM A WITCH AND THIS WILL BE
A TRIBUTE TO MY DESTINY
FULL OF SPELLS,POETRY,PROSE
THE MAP BY WHICH I'LL SET MY COURSE
SILVER LADY,BLESS THESE PAGES
OF KNOWLEDGE PASSED DOWN THROUGH THE AGES
GOLDEN GOD,PROTECT THIS BOOK
AND LET NO UNTRAINED EYE LOOK
UPON THE SECRETS WRITTEN HERE
LET MINE BE THE ONLY EYES TO PEER
AT THIS KNOWLEDGE,THE CRAFT OF THE WISE
FEEL THE POWER,LET IT RISE
ONLY I THESE PAGES SHALL SEE
BOOK OF SHADOWS-PROTECTED BE"
You should then use the book to write down your thoughts and feelings about the Craft,to copy out spells or make up your own and so on.Begin by copying the invocations to the Goddess and the God given in lesson one.
SELF-DEDICATION/INITIATION
You may like to write this ritual in your new BOS,after you have performed it.Your initiation should be performed on the night of the next full moon.You will need candles,salt,rose water,cider/wine/juice and your favourite cakes/biscuits to eat.Begin by having a nice relaxing bath and then light the candles and place them around the room.
1.Put a little salt on your tongue and say"I CHOOSE THE PATH OF THE OLD WAYS.FROM THE MOTHER I SPRANG-TO THE MOTHER I RETURN.I AM BELOVED BY THE SILVER LADY AND THE LORD OF THE GREENWOOD"
2.Take the rose water and sprinkle it on your third in the central of your forehead and say "I AM(MAGICKAL NAME),TRUE WITCH AND WISE ONE.I AM WICCAN.PAGAN AND FOLLOWER OF THE OLD WAYS.I AM A LINK OF THE ANCIENT CIRCLE"
3.Dab rose water on your heart and say"I(MAGICKAL NAME),LIVE MY LIFE IN LOVE"
4.Dab rose water on each palm,holding them out,palms upwards like scales and say"I(MAGICKAL NAME) STRIVE TO BRING BALANCE INTO MY LIFE"
5.Dab rose water on your navel and say "I(MAGICKAL NAME) BRING FORTH THE GIFT/SEED OF LIFE"
6.Finally sprinkle rose water on your feet and say "I(MAGICKAL NAME)WALK IN THE WAY OF THE GODDESS AND GOD"Open your arms to embrace the world and say "I DEDICATE MYSELF TO THE OLD WAYS.MAY THE TRIPLE GODDESS AND THE GOLDEN GOD WELCOME ME AS AN INITIATE"
Stand for a few minutes to be accepted by the Goddess and God.Then rest and enjoy you food and wine,traditionally known as Cakes and Ale.
CONCLUSION
You are now a self-initiated fledgling Witch.You have dedicated your life to the Old Ways.Grow in peace and knowledge.
Ten questions for you to answer
1.Which tools are required before beginning to work with magick?
2.During the Burning Times,why was it important that the Witch's tools looked like part of and ordinary household items?
3.What is the Athame?
4.Which element does it correspond to?
5.Which tool corresponds to the element of Earth?
6.Tradionally,what should the wand be made of?
7.Nmae four different divination tools.
8.Nmae three uses of an essential oil.
9.What is the Witch's magickal diary called?
10.What should appear on the second page?
LESSON 3
To many people the word coven brings to mind images of darkly robed or naked individuals cavorting around a bonfire,or summoning up demons and spirits in a moonlit cemetery at midnight.While coven do exist they are often difficult to find in general,and are not looking for new members.As this course is about Wicca as a solitary practice we will not go in too deeply about coven practice and ritual.However,in this lesson we will be looking at the difference and similarities between the two,just to give you a more overall insight into the craft.
THE COVEN vs THE SOLITARY
There are covens springing up the world over and chances are that there is a working coven in your own home town.However,dont be misled-these people are not devil worshipping satanists some would have you believe.A true coven is simply a group of witches working together towards mutual empowerment and balance.Many covens are quite small,2 or 3 friends working together for example.Some are larger with a High Priestess and a High Priest,practicing more ritualized magick.Some covens dont call themselves covens at all,but are known as Womens Groups,involved in Womens Mysteries and GoddessWorship.Such labels are often more acceptable to society,who in general dont mind the local Womens Group hiring the school hall for monthly meetings but would be outraged at the thought of a coven running around the school playground.Unfortunately pre-conceptions still exist and often more subtle labels are necessary to ensure a quiet life.It is also a good reason why covens dont usually advertise or knock on your door asking for new recruits. As a member of a coven you have the joy of companionship with like minded people plus in many covens the help and guidance of the High Priestess and sometimes the High Priest too.Coven worship can make ritual magick more fun,particularly on the larger festivals such as SAMHAIN,commonly known as Halloween.With a smaller coven working together,there is also less expense as they often buy only one set of tools and share them,each member contributing his or her share of the overall price.If you feel that you would like to join a coven then you should write to the Pagan Federation who may be able to put you in touch with a coven in your area.Send an S.A.E for their reply;
THE PAGAN FEDERATION,
BM BOX 7097,
LONDON
WC1N 3XX
UK.
If you already know of a coven and would like to join then you should politely make your interest known.HOWEVER a word of warning many 'CULTS' practice under the guise of coven worship.Look for the signs-use of blood,use of drugs,mind power games,the inverted pentagram(two points upwards),insistence on ritual nudity and sexual acts or any type of force being used over you.Any of these means IT IS NOT a true Wiccan Coven.True Wiccans believe in freedom of spirit and free will and would NEVER try to force you to do anything that you're uncomfortable with.Most genuine covens are listed with the Pagan Federation.
THE SOLITARY
As a solitary you have the freedom to work when you want and how you want.Festivals and magickal workings can be made to fit into your own routine and around family and work commitments.If you're feeling under the weather for example then as a solitary you dont have to don the magickal robes and drag yourself through 2 feet of snow to the coven worship of the mid-winter solstice.As a solitary you could light a candle,curl up under the duvet and snooze the longest night away.The solitary Witch has incredible freedom.Freedom to work and ritualise in her own way,in her own home,whenever and however she feels like it.As a solitary You are in control.You are both High Priestess and High Priest,you are the receptor and director of power you are Earth,Air,Fire and Water,North,South,East and West.A solitary Witch is just that-no less powerful,no less a Witch-simply a Witch who prefers to work alone.
THE COVENSTEAD
A covenstead is the place where any Witch practices.This could be a full coven or a solitary Witch,it matters not.If a coven has a regular meeting place either indoors or outdoors then this is the covenstead.If the solitary Witch practices at home or in the garden the household is the covenstead.
a true covenstead however is brought about by the atmosphere within it,created by the Witch or Witches.This atmosphere should be one of peace and joy,love and goodness,light and balance.The covenstead is a place of power.People are naturally drawn to it because of the tranquility they feel residing within,or without as in the case of an outdoor covenstead.Regular cleansings and purification rituals are performed to keep the covenstead free of negativity and to enhance the feelings of calm and tranquility.Often candles are continually aglow as in the Perpetual Flame,which is never allowed to go out and is carefully tended by the Witch,in a similar vain to the Vestal Virgins tending the Hearth fires of Roman times.Power animals and deities are invoked to protect the space and life is brought into it in the form of plants and herbs.All magickal tools are kept in the covenstead,and an Alter is placed here where magick is worked and the Universal energies and powers are honoured.If you work as a solitary Witch then your whole house,not just the room you practice magick in should be viewed as the covenstead.Your garden too is a sacred place and you should work to make sure that it is a place of harmony and natural beauty.Make your own covenstead as harmonious and as peaceful as you can and you will find the vibrations within it will only serve to enhance your power.
CONSECRATION OF TOOLS
Once you have gathered together all your tools you will need to cleanse and consecrate them before you use them in your magickal practices.This includes brand new tools bought from a New Age store,as you must make sure all your things are in tune with your own vibrations and those of your covenstead.Cleansing the tools releases any negative vibrations that surround them and it also introduces the tools to the powers of the Universe and your intentions of using them only for the Craft.
There are several ways to consecrate tools,some complicated some simple.Here are 2 examples which take little time but are very effective.Remember that everything you use in the Craft should be cleansed before use. This includes Tarot decks,runes stones,crystals athames,wands pentacles etc.etc.
The first method of cleansing your tools is perhaps the easiest.Simply leave each tool on a windowsill where it can be bathed in both sunlight and moonlight.This method is best done on the day/night of the full moon. Another way is to pass your tools through each of the elements.For example,if you where cleansing your pentacle,you would first sprinkle it with salt,for Earth,pass it through the smoke of an incense stick for Air,pass it over a candle flame for Fire and lastly sprinkle it with water.Your tools are now cleansed and are ready for use.
THE MAGICK CIRCLE
It is important that you realize that the magick circle is much more than a circle.It is actually a sphere,surrounding the Witch and offering her protection during spell work.
There are many different types of circle casting as there are Witches,we will discuss a few as we go along.The circle is an invisible boundary which both protects the Witch from negativity and holds the power in until the Witch is ready to realize it.All magickal workings are done within the Circle,including acts of divination such as Tarot readings and Crystal scrying.Often a Circle is cast for protection only,such as when a solitary female Witch must go out alone at night or is forced to walk through wild and lonely places.This type of circle is very powerful,and people walk around the perimeter of the Circle even though the could not possibly see it.But they sensed it was there and that the space within the boundary was off limits to them.This is the type of protection the Circle offers.
The Circle is a deliberately created space,visualized into being by the Witch.It is known as being 'between the worlds'as it is actually on the Astral Plane(visable only in the minds eye)while the Witch is on the Physical Plane.The Circle can also act as a doorway for astral creatures such as elementals,Dragons and Angels to come into the area invited by the Witch to assist or protect her/him.ALWAYS remember that anything done within the Circle is powerful so keep your thoughts and feelings positive.NEVER cast a Circle in anger or vengeance.
BASIC CIRCLE CASTING
The main type of Circle Casting is performed by closing your eyes,outstretching your arm and turning or walking slowly around,visualizing an electric blue or white light streaming from your forefinger.This creates a circle.The circle then expands above and below to form a sphere all around you.Stamp your foot and say "THIS CIRCLE IS SEALED" To take up the circle at the end of a working,simply 'draw' the light back into your hand,stamp your foot and say;"THIS CIRCLE IS OPEN,BUT NEVER BROKEN".As we said earlier there are many types of Circle Casting.You must find one that suits you best.Here are some examples;
A Bubble,
A thick green hedge,
A ball of fire,
A dry space within a sphere of rain,
A circle of animals you have an affinity with,dolphins,wolves,cats etc and so on.
Eventually with practice you will be able to snap your fingers and your Circle will be in force around you.However this takes a certain level of skill and you must build up to it by practicing the basic circle casting above and experimenting with others of your choice.Personally I am a great fan of the Circle of Wolves and The Circle of Stars and Moons.
SACRED SPACE
Wherever the Witch is,is sacred space.This includes the home,the covenstead,the car,the workplace etc.It is up to you to create sacred space in all theses areas.You can do this by adding such things as windchimes,crystals,herb pouches to your car and to your desk in work,by filling your home with plants and pets and lighting your covenstead with candles.Create environments of peace,harmony and tranquility wherever you are,wherever you spend time and wherever you go.
CREATING AN ALTER
Your alter is where you will place your magickal tools and perform simple spells.It is also the place where you will attune to the Universal powers,therefore it should be pleasing to you and you should reflect your personality.Traditionally the alter shroud be placed in the EAST,although some traditions place it in the NORTH.However placing an alter is more a matter of feeling than compass direction.If it feels right to you then so be it.The alter itself can be anything,a small coffee table,the mantle-piece,a shelf on a wall or in a bookcase,a dressing table,a desk anything goes as long as it gives you room to place your tools and things on and room to work.To create your own alter decide what surface to use and where to put it,Next,clean it and make sure it is dust free.Place your tools upon it and also a candle or two,Statues of the Goddess,such as the Venus de Milo or Diana the Huntress,can look beautiful on an alter.Try hanging a round mirror(a symbol of the Goddess),or magickal pictures of wizards and witches above your alter.Pretty pots of crystals look good too.If you have not yet collected all your tools,you can set up an alter using nothing more than incense,water,salt and a candle.Pebbles and seashells are free,so are pine cones and so on they are all very effective.Plants thrive if placed on your alter.Finally I strongly recommend that you place your own household light upon your alter.Buy a box of tea light candles and every night at the same time light one candle and place it in a pretty holder on your alter.Invoke the vibrations of peace and tranquility and you have created your sacred space.
CONCLUSION
You are now well on your way to a magickal living.By the time you begin to work through the next lesson you should be well practiced in circle casting and you should also have set up an alter of some sort in your home/covenstead. May your Household Light burn brightly in peace and joy.
Ten questions for you to answer
1.Whats another more contemporary and accepted name for a coven?
2.What are the benefits of being a coven member?
3.Where can you get information on covens/pagans in your area?
4.Give one advantage of working as a solitary.
5.What is a covenstead?
6.What type of atmosphere should you create within your own covenstead?
7.Which tools should be consecrated?
8.Name one method of cleansing your tools?
9.What is the magick circle and what does it do?
10.Traditionally,in which two directions can the alter be placed?
LESSON 4We will be discussing the Witch's Wheel in this lesson,because Wicca is about living in tune with nature,Witches have special festival days which help us to take a grip on the cycle of the seasons.There are 3 Spring festivals,3 Harvest festivals and 2 Solstices, making up the Wheel of the Year.
These 8 festivals are known as the Witch's Sabbath and are a time of music,laughter,dance,spell working and meditation.Our alters are decorated to reflect the colours of the season and the mood of the festival,and we often prepare a special festival supper using foods of the season.Many Witch's take the day off work,particularly on the larger festivals such as Samhain and Yule,and make this a 'Witch Day',in which spell crafts and herbalism,and trips out to the coast or country side are taken,followed by the festivities and magick in the evening. During your first year of Witchcraft,you may find that you miss one or two of the Sabbaths.This is quite understandable and you need not worry.Witchcraft takes time to get to grips with and it will probably be even longer before you naturally come to include it in your everyday life.You will also find that the year rolls by more quickly as a result of the Sabbaths and your affinity with the seasons.The Sabbaths are our grip on life.They are what remind us of our equality with living things.They are what connects us to the Earth.
THE 8 SABBATHS OF THE WITCH'S WHEEL
SAMHAIN-OCTOBER 31st
Samhain is better known as Halloween,and is one of the Witch's major Sabbaths.October 31st was the last day in the old Celtic/Pagan calender,therefore it is seen as the Witch's New Year.It is also the final harvest festival of the wheel.Samhain is probably viewed as the 'spookiest' of the Witch's festivals.The ancient Celts would call it the Feast of the Dead and Halloween is still seen as the night upon which ghost walk the earth.However,far from being the spooky event of children's books,Samhain is a joyous festival when Witch's look forward to the long winter nights and remember loved ones who have passed on.
Our alters are decorated with ribbons of orange,gold and brown to represent the colours of Autumn.Cider is heated and mixed with cinnamon and sliced apple.Autumn leaves are brought into the house and are placed in pretty bowls along with pinecones and acorns to create a winter pot-pourri.Golden leaves are also scattered around the Circle during spell work.Pumpkins are not just for children and on this night Witches hollow them out,place a candle inside and put them outside the home with a spell for protection.The pumpkin then acts as a guardian for the house on what can often be a most mischievous night.Samhain is also the time to purchase a new broom should you need one.On this night magickal brooms are named during a special Naming of the Broom.Ceremony, and protective brooms and baskets are decorated and hung about the home.It is usual to turn off all electric lights and lamps and to fill your home or covenstead with candle light.A candle should also be placed in the window and lanterns placed outside in your garden along with the pumpkins.many Wiccans also have a bonfire on this night too.Bowls of floating candles are dotted around the home and black candles are burnt to ward off negativity.The Witch looks forward to the darker nights when she can indulge in candle magick,book learning and updating her Book of Shadows. Spells and workings performed on Samhain include acts of divination such as Tarot readings and casting the runes,candle magick,spells to protect and ward off negativity,spells for abundance and prosperity throughout the cold months.Another tradition is to cook and enjoy a special Samhain supper,using traditional foods such as pumpkin,apples pears,berries,pomegranates,stews and casseroles.In some Wiccan households an empty place is set in reverence to family members who have passed on but are in no way forgotten.This is the Feast of the Dead after all.
YULE/WINTER SOLSTICE-DECEMBER 21st
Yule is also known as the Winter Solstice.A solstice is basically when the hours of dark and light are unequal,one out-weighing the other.In this case,we are in the depths of winter,therefore the winter solstice is the shortest day and the longest night-more than 12 hours of darkness.In many Wiccan households Yule and Christmas are celebrated together and the two are very similar in tradition.As Yule is around December 21st and the last day of Christmas is January the 6th,this can often be the longest festival of the year and can also create the most work. Probably the most well known tradition is the bringing in and the decorating of the tree.Brightly coloured baubles reflect the light of a thousand candles and fairy lights,and remind us that the sun will return in the Spring.It also makes sure that the home will be filled with warmth and light throughout the coming year.Traditional colours are red and green and alters are decorated with holly,ivy and mistletoe,along with red and green candles.Pine and cinnamon incense are burned and fill the covenstead with seasonal fragrance,and bayberry oil is also burned to bring wealth and prosperity. Other traditions include the giving and receiving of gifts and baking special cookies to eat after the Yuletide supper of roast meats and vegtables.Chestnuts are roasted,bowls of nuts are dotted around and once again hot cider is drunk. As Yule is a fire festival the room is darkened and lit only by candles.The Yule-log is set alight with a small piece left over from last years log,but if you have not got a fire place you can still keep this tradition by buying the largest berry red candle you can find,dressing it with pine oil and lighting it on Yule night. Other decorations include wreaths of winter greenery,and pictures and statues of the reindeer stag to represent the God,whilst little silver bells are hung up in strings to represent the Goddess.This has always been a Pagan holiday and so no excessive work should be done on Yule.Instead,listen to ancient songs such as 'The Holly and the Ivy'eat good food and drink spiced cider and enjoy yourself.
IMBOLC-FEBRUARY 2nd
Imbolc is the first of three Spring festivals,and at this time of year,Witch's celebrate the return of the sun after the long dark winter months.One traditions to turn on all the lights in the home for a few minutes to welcome back the Sun God,or to have a blazing fire-place/bonfire.
Purple,mid-blue and deep rose pink are the colours for this festival and alters are decorated with ribbons and candles of such colours and shades.Mint and cinnamon are the fragrances burned and the magickal cabinet is stocked up ready for the coming months.Another tradition is to buy or make a decoration to represent the Sun.A lovely wrought iron sun face with tiny bells hanging from its rays is an appropriate decoration at IMBOLC.
SPRING EQUINOX-MARCH 21st
An equinox occurs when the hours of dark and light are equal.At the is time the sun is growing in strength preparing to take over his domain during the summer months.The Spring Equinox is the second spring festival and is a time when the world is waking up after its long winter sleep. Alters are decorated with pale pastel ribbons of yellow,pink,green and violet.Coloured eggs are also used for both alter and home decorations as are pictures and statues of the spring bunny and the march hare.The first spring flowers should be brought into your home and the covenstead and the windows opened to let in the spring air.Cleansing and purification rituals are performed as are rituals and spells of balance.Spring cleaning is indulged in and now is the time to cast off the shades of winter and hang lighter coloured curtains,replace table cloths,cushion covers,throws etc.A traditional gift at this time of year either to yourself or a friend are wind chimes,used to ring in the Spring.
BELTANE-APRIL 30th
Also known as May's Eve,this final spring festival is the fertility festival.Spells for conception and easy childbirth are performed,along with spells for the birth and fruition of new ventures or ideas.All the scents of spring are used and the traditional colours are white and red,symbolic of a womens virginity and the blood of childbirth.Other decorations are bowls of floating flowers and candles and the circle is strewn with petals.
THE SUMMER SOLSTICE-JUNE 21st
The sun has reached its height and strength,bathing the world in gold.The days are long and this,the longest day of the year.Alters are decorated with ribbons of golden orange and yellow,the colours of the sun,and gold candles are used.Herbs are best harvested on this day and sunflowers can be brought into decorated the home.Windows and doors are thrown wide,gardens are tended and the festival supper is usually made up of salads,fresh fruit,sandwhiches and fruit juice-all taken outside of course.Barbecues are also appropriate.This is an excellent time to work elemental magick and to commune with the Nature Spirits.
LAMMAS-AUGUST 1st
This is first harvest festival.seaonal colours are deep reds,yellows and greens,white thyme,basil and ginger are the fragrances generally used.Alters are decorated with poppies,wheat and dried corn.Corn dollies are placed on the alter and hung from beams and ceilings.Lammas is a time to work kitchen rituals against poisoning,burns and fires etc. A harvest supper is prepared and traditional foods are home baked breads,corn on the cob and berry pies.Often this supper is eaten outdoors in the late evening.Apple juice and ice cold cider are drunk and fresh fruit eaten.If your garden has a well it is traditional to decorate it with flowers and ivies on this night.
AUTUMNAL EQUINOX-SEPTEMBER 21st
Autumn is here again and winter is just around the corner.This is the second harvest festival and it is a time for giving thanks for all our blessings.Autumn colours such as deep orange,gold,bronze and deep reds are used to decorate the home and the alter.The first fallen leaves are scattered around the circle.Once again corn dollies are used along with brown,orange and gold candles.Ginger bread and parkin are baked,blackberries picked and fruit pies made.Blackcurrent juice is drunk and any fruity incense is burnt.Now is the time for the Autumn clean,heavy curtains are hung,rugs put down and thick door curtains used.Table clothes,cushion covers and throws are changed for darker coloured ones.Draught excluders are made and cupboards are stocked with canned fruits,jams and dried goods.Candles are brought in plenty ready for the dark winter nights.Traditionally now is the time to protect your home by hanging a horseshoe points up,above your front door.
SAMHAIN
The wheel has turned and we have come full circle,back again to the Witches New Year.
Next some spells that are to be done for the major and minor festivals for the Witch's Wheel
Sabbaths
SAMHAIN-OCTOBER 31st
You will need;
Your wand
cauldron
Black candle
Plate of bread,salt,apple
Oak leaves or oak twig
Sage and allspice
METHOD
Cast your circle,hold the wand in your power hand and tap the cauldron 5 times and say;
'I ASK FOR YOUR BLESSING DARK MOTHER &FATHER OF DARKNESS AS THE VEIL BETWEEN TWO WORLDS THINS I GREET MY ANCESTORS AND LOVED ONES WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE ME MAY ONLY THOSE WHO WISH ME WELL ENTER WITHIN THIS CIRCLE.'
Touch with the wand the plate of bread and salt,the herbs and the apple and say;
'WELCOME ALL ANCESTORS TO SHARE THIS FEAST WITH ME THE BREAD,SALT AND APPLE ARE HERE PREPARED AS A SUITABLE FEAST,THUS REPRESENTING THE FRUITS OF THE EARTH ACKNOWLEDGING THE PRESENCE OF THE GODS WE REMEMBER THAT DEATH IS A MOMENT IN THE EVER TURNING WHEEL OF LIFE'
Now take some bread,dip it in the salt and herbs and eat it,if there are any leftover,leave them outside as an offering to the spirits.Light the black candle in the cauldron and say;
'WE GREAT ALL THOSE GONE BEFORE US WHO ARE FREE OF EARTH'S TIES.'
Spend a few moments thinking of your loved ones,then say;
'I THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRESENCE HERE TONIGHT.'
Cut the apple across its width to reveal the pattern of the seeds which is a pentagram and say;
'THIS APPLE SYMBOLIZES THE THREE ASPECTS OF MAID,MOTHER,CRONE,BIRTH,LIFE AND DEATH,
THERE IS NO FEAR,FOR TONIGHT WE UNDERSTAND THE CYCLE AND ACKNOWLEDGE IT IN ITS FULLNESS.'
Eat some of the apple and say;
'WE LOVE,WE HONOUR AND WE BLESS, SO BE IT.'
Now share the remainder of the apple by putting it outside for the birds and animals.Close your circle in your own way.
IMBLOC-FEBRUARY 2nd
You will need
White candles for the alter
A white candle and holder for each room in your home
A reed cross
A corn dolly if you want
A piece of white cloth(to represent Bridget's mantle)
Incense such as jasmine,wisteria,cinnamon or violet
METHOD
Light the alter candles and the incense,invoke Bridget using words such as;
'LADY OF LIGHT MAIDEN AND GODDESS BLESS US WITH YOUR PRESENCE HERE TONIGHT'
Wrap the corn dolly in the white cloth and say;
'AS YOU OFFERED YOUR MANTLE FOR SANCTUARY FOR THE BABE SO WE SIGNIFY THIS TONIGHT AS BRIDE WE HONOUR YOU ALSO'
Place the doll on the alter.Now taking your candle for the room you are in,light it from the alter candle which for you represents the Goddess.Place the new candle carefully in the window,spend a few moments with the candle thinking of Bridgets power then say;
'AS THIS FLAME BURNS SO LET IT SIGNIFY THE ETERNAL FLAME SACRED TO BRIDGET'
Repeat this in each room of your home,lighting a new candle in turn.Return to your alter and lift up the cross and say;
'PROTECT US NOW AS THE LIGHT BRIGHTENS WE HONOUR YOUR SYMBOL'
Now place the cross on your front door so you are protected.
BELTANE-MAY 1st
You will need
White ribbon,Red ribbon
Flowers white ones with five petals
Cauldron(which you can fill with flowers)
White alter cloth and usual tools include the pentacle for this ritual
METHOD
Face east and kneel before the alter(you can wear a flower garland if you wan to,put the ribbons on the pentacle with the end of the white ribbon covering the end of the red ribbon and say;
"OH MY FATHER AND MOTHER GODDESS,IT IS THE TIME OF UNION, THROUGH YOUR HAPPY JOINING,SO SHALL HAPPINESS SPREAD TO ALL, THROUGH YOUR ABUNDANCE,SO SHALL NATURE BE ABUNDANT."
Start to plait the ribbons,thus creating a simple mayploe symbol.Concentrate hard and say;
"PRAISE TO YOU ANCIENT GOD AND GODDESS, YOU ARE OUR CREATORS AND FROM YOUR UNION SHALL ALL BEINGS RISE AND AWAKEN, SACRED ART THOU"
Afterwards do what you want with the ribbon,hang it by your mirror as a reminder of the union between male and female positive and negative energies and follow up the ritual with a walk in the woods or meadow for the spring blessings as a sign of respect and gather things like twigs for your alter.
LAMMAS-AUGUST 2nd
You will need
Barley,oats and fruit
A corn dolly(this remains on your alter)
Cider and bread for the feast
Red alter cloth
Orange candles
Sandlewood or rose incense
METHOD
Cast your protection cirle,light the incense and candles,hold some of the grainin your hand face EAST and say;
"REAPING!REAPING!IT IS THE TIME OF HARVEST REAPING! NATURE'S BURGEONING GLORY SACRIFICED AS IS THE GOD FOR OUR CONTINUANCE, WE TOO MUST MAKE WAY,MUST MAKE SURRENDER IN OUR LIVES, NOW THE GODDESS ENTERS CRONE-HOOD WE ASK FOR HER SECRETS AND MAGICK THAT WE MAY USE THEM FOR THE GREATER GOOD"
Rub the grain heads together with your fingers,allow the grain to fall onto the alter signifying grain threshing,take a piece of fruit,taste it revel in its juices and say;
"I AM ONE WITH THE FRUITS OF THE HARVEST, ITS ENERGIES ARE MY ENERGIES SHOW ME THE PATH TO GOODNESS AND LIGHT.
HAIL MOON GODDESS!HAIL MOON GODDESS!HAIL WORLDLY MOTHER!HAIL SUN LORD! I BOW TO YOUR GREATNESS AND THE WEALTH YOU HAVE AFFORDED ME, NO ILLS OR MISFORTUNES SHALL COME OF MY HAND UNTO OTHERS."
Finish off the fruit,follow up with your own magick maybe a healing spell.After wards have a simple feast of berries,bread and other ripened fruits.Walk through fields and orchards or spend time alongside natural sources of water,reflecting on the bounty and love of the Gods of nature.
YULE-DECEMBER 23rd
You will need
Yule log
saved piece of the previous year's Yule log is possible
2 white candles for your alter
Red candles
Green candles
Green alter cloth
Evergreen Tree
A wreath(symbol of the yearly wheel and of the Goddess).
METHOD
Cast your circle,place the Yule log at the rear of the alter,bring the God candle to the front of the alter and say;
HERE THIS CANDLE SYMBOLIZES THE SUN GOD ITS FINAL FLICKER,HIS PASSING AND HERE ITS FLAME ONCE AGAIN LIGHTS HIS RETURN.
Take one of the white alter candles and light the God candle,turn to the Yule log on which you have placed a piece of last years Yule log,taking the alter candle with you(it is a nice touch to place the coloured candles on the Yule log it self)light the red candle and say;
BLESSED BE THE NUBILE GODDESS MAY THIS WORLD BE FOREVER YOUNG IN HER PRESENCE.
Light the green candle and say;
BLESSED BE THE MATERNAL GODDESS,FRESH AND ROSY WITH BABE, AND SO SHALL ALL THAT SPRINGS FROM HER BE STRONG,ADVENTUROUS AND BOUNTIFUL.
Light the third candle and say;
BLESSED BE THE DEEP-ROOTED GODDESS,WISE,POWERFUL AND TEMPERATE, THE SHE KEEPER OF MAGICK AND THE EVER TURNING WHEEL.
Having lit the candles on the Yule log put the alter candle in its place,ensure that the old piece of Yule log is alight,return to the front of the alter,face towards the East and say;
TONIGHT THE LORD OF THE SUN IS BORN AGAIN THE GODDESS AND THE GOD ARE TOGHTER IN HARMONY
THE SUN REAFFIRMS AS THE WHEEL IS A-TURNING ONCE AGAIN, WE PRAISE THE GODDESS AND THE NEWLY BORN GOD OUR FATHER AND MOTHER.
Now perform any seasonal activities you have in mind whilst burning the Yule log,such as singing dancing decorating the tree and taking a glass of wine or cider. Now close the circle as normal.
OSTARA-MARCH 21st
You will need;
Fresh flowers
Jasmine or rose incense
Green and yellow candles
A bowl of water
A single white flower
METHOD
Float your single white flower in the bowl looking at it beauty and simplicity,light the candles thinking all the while of the regenerative power of nature,light the incense thinking of the perfumes generated by the Goddess sit or stand and quietly consider the cycle of nature and Mother Earth's great power.Stand up with your feet about 18 inches apart,reach towards the center of the earth through the soles of your feet,feel your 'roots' sinking deep down into the earth from which you can draw energy from,feel the energy being fed back to you rising up through you towards the light,reach your arms upwards towards the light,feel its energies moving downwards through you,let both energies mix together and then allow the new energies to swirl around and through you cleansing healing and balancing then say;
OSTARA,LADY OF FLOWERS AND STRONG NEW LIFE BE BORN ANEW IN ME TONIGHT.
When you feel ready,ground yourself by running your hands over your body from head top toe.Sit quietly and contemplate how you will use your new energy.Return your energy to your solar plexus and leave your sacred space.
LITHA-JUNE 21st(SUMMER SOLSTICE)
You will need
Summer herbs such as lavender and wisteria
Greenery and flowers
Water
White pouch with red tie
White altar cloth
Two white candles
Red candle to represent the Sun God
Green candle to represent the Earth Goddess
Cauldron
METHOD
Fill the pouch with the herbs,as you fill it think of all your negative and difficulties being placed in the bag along with the herbs.Light the white candle and place your cauldron in the middle of your altar and say;
NOW AT MIDSUMMER,AT LITHA THE TIME OF LIGHT, I ACKNOWLEDGE THE TURNING WHEEL FOR, AS FROM TODAY,THE LIGHT BEGINS TO FADE.
Light the green Goddess candle on the left of the cauldron,place the water in front of the candle and say;
LADY OF POWER,I ASK YOUR BLESSING
Light the red God candle to the right of the cauldron and say;
GOD OF FERTILITY AND FRUITFULNESS,I ASK YOUR BLESSING
Pick up the herb pouch,hold it up whilst saying;
LORD OF THE SUN BURN AWAY THE NEGATIVE PURIFY ME THROUGH YOUR POWERFUL LIGHT
Ignite your pouch using the flame from the red candle,drop the pouch into the cauldron and say;
GREAT GODDESS & GOD,ON THIS ENCHANTED NIGHT I PRAY FOR YOU GUIDANCE IN SELF-UNDERSTANDING AND WORLDLY PERCEPTION, AFFORD ME DELIGHT AND HAPPINESS,AND WARD OFF ANY DANGER BROUGHT BY MY OWN DOING.
As the pouch burns,it clears away all your negativity.When it has burnt out,signify your acceptance by pouring a little of the water into the cauldron where it is mixed with the ashes.Spend a little time contemplating the gifts of the Goddess and the god.Finally dispose of the water and ashes by pouring them onto the bare earth.Leave the red and green candles to burn out.
MABON-SEPTEMBER 21st(AUTUMN EQUINOX)
You will need
Your usual ritual tools
Cauldron
Yellow candle
Green candle
Strong smelling incense such as pine or sage
METHOD
Cast your circle as usual,acknowledge the elements,then say;
THIS,NOW A TIME FOR THANKSGIVING THE TRIPLE GODDESS DRAWS NEAR LIGHT AND DARK STAND EQUAL AND WE REST THE HARVEST IS COMPLETE
Light the coloured candles from the altar candles.moving clockwise,carefully carry the coloured candles around your sacred space,starting at the East,at each Element pause and say;
BLESS NOW MY HARVEST,GAURDIANS OF THE ELEMENTS
Place the candles in holders on the altar,tap the cauldron 3 times with your wand and say;
DEATH,LIFE-BOTH ARE BALANCED, NEGATIVITY,POSITIVITY ARE ACCEPTED AS EQUAL I AM NOW COMPLETE, MAY THE GODDESSES AND GODS GUIDE ME NOW.
Close the circle,now is the time for divination,for guidance and wisdom and meditation is useful at this time.
CONCLUSION
This is a brief description of the traditions and celebrations of the Witch's Wheel of the Year.Start living it now by finding out which sabbat is coming up next.Make plans on how you will choose to celebrate it by purchasing any supplies you may need and plan your sabbat supper.Most of all have fun and celebrate in peace and joy.
Ten Questions for you to answer.
1.What is the Witch's Wheel?
2.How many solstices are there?
3.What is a solstice?
4.What is an equinox?
5.Give another name for a Witch's festival.
6.When is Samhain?
7.What is another name for Beltane?
8.What are the colours of Beltane and what do they represent?
9.When is the summer Solstice?
10.What is the name of the second harvest festival?
LESSON 5
At this stage we will begin to learn about magickal techniques and spell casting.As we have said before,to be a true Witch,you must believe in your own abilities to work magick.The practice of magick is one of the things that draws many people to Witchcraft.It is a practice which puts you in touch with your own personal power and can help you to gain control over you own life.Empowerment is an integral part of the Craft. Spell casting draws us closer to the Goddess and the magick of Mother Earth.In this lesson you will learn the principles of magickal practice.You will learn about the Quarters and the Guardians,and how to practice Natural Magick,harnessing the powers of the land.You will also learn what it takes to cast a spell effectively. a large part of a Witch's work is casting spells,both for her/himself and for others who ask for help.Working magick is a huge responsibility and you MUST use this power with care,ever minding the WICCAN REDE and the RULE OF THREE.
SPELL CASTING
A spell is similar to a prayer,but differs in the fact that the Witch does not ask an outside force to help.Rather,the Witch will go within,attuning with her own inner strength and personal power in order to make things happen.To cast a successful spell you must use your common sense and realise that magick is a very powerful force.You must also be specific in your goals.Vague and abstract wishes are not magick.To cast a spell you must visualize and specify your goal with perfect clarity.If you don't the spell will fail.Before you begin to work any magick,you should make sure that you are well informed by practicing the workings of previous lessons of this course and broadening your magickal mind with extensive reading.One of the main aspects of any spell is visualization.You must be able to see your goal clearly and without any doubt as to its manifestation.For example,if you want to do a spell for a new home then before the spell begins you should already know what kind of home you are looking for.Is it a house or a flat?How many bedrooms does it have?Does it have a garden?Is it in the countryside or the city,etc,etc. Next you would visualize yourself within th picture.see yourself sitting by the fire of your dream home or in the garden having a Barbecue.Imagine decorating it for your first Christmas.Know that this dream home WILL be yours.There is no doubt in your mind.Thee is no question as to the success of your spell.This is visualization.At the same time you have been raising your power by chanting,clapping,drumming,dancing etc.When you feel ready,the power is released taking your spell and
your wish out into the Universe.Now all you have to do is await the spell's manifestation.This is SPELL-CASTING and you can apply it to any area of your life.It is important that you realise how magick will work in your life.Manifestation does not occur the moment the spell is cast.Unlike Mary Poppins you cannot snap your fingers or twitch your nose like Samantha from Bewitched and have your housework done in a second although it would be very nice. Magick travels the path of least resistance,which means that you may be tempted to think of it as coincidence when the spell works.However,to a Witch,there really is no such thing as coincidence and you should recognise the manifestation of your spell and give yourself credit for a job well done.Be confident in your own power and know that you can cause positive change. There are many different methods of spell casting as there are witches,and they use many different tools.Magick is worked using candles,stones,pebbles,crystals,wax images,herbs,dolls,seashells,tarot cards,runes,potions and brews -to name but a few.;Magick can also be worked using nothing more than visualization,will power and intense concentration.a spell can be long or short,simple or complex.It is entirely up to the Witch.Here is a brief outline of a spell working;
1.Gather all the tools and equipment needed.
2.Relax and focus.
3.Cast a magick circle.
4.Call the Quarters.
5.Raise power by drumming,clapping,chanting etc.
6.Prefrom the spell of your choice while visualizing the goal.
7.Release the power.
8.Ground,give thanks and relax.
9.Eat and drink something to restore energy lost whilst preforming the magickal spell.
10.Dismiss the Quarters.Take up the Circle.
CALLING THE QUARTERS
The Quarters are the four compass points of the circle,North,South,East and West.Each direction corresponds to an element.
North-Earth
East-Air
South-Fire
West-Water.
It is usual during magickal rituals to call some form of guardian to stand at the compass points in order to protect the Witch and the sacred space.The Guardians of the Four Directions can be many things,Watchtowers,Angels,Dragons,Elementals or any animal you have an affinity with such as wolves,dolphins,cats etc. The Watchtowers are often the most popular Quarters used.The Guardians of the Watchtowers are really the Warrior essence of the Universe.They will protect you and your work valiantly.You should always Call or Hail any guardian respectfully.DO NOT summon them.They are not servants to fo your bidding.They are Universal energies who can lend their power to yours,making your spells very effective.Basically,this means that guardians of any kind are bigger than you,so be polite.Summon/Dismiss a Dragon at your peril.Below are some standard Quarter calls for you to try out,beginning with the Warrior Watchtower's as this is the simplest call to learn.
CALL THE WATCHTOWERS
1. "HAIL TO THE GUARDIANS OF THE WATCHTOWERS OF THE NORTH,I CALL THEE FORTH TO PROTECT THIS SACRED SPACE"
2. REPEAT THIS CALL FOR ALL DIRECTIONS,SOUTH,EAST AND WEST.
CALL THE ANGELS
1.I CALL UPON ARIEL,ANGEL OF THE NORTH,TO LEND THY POWER AND PROTECT THIS SPACE.
2.I CALL UPON RAPHAEL,ANGEL OF THE EAST,TO LEND THY POWER AND PROTECT THIS SPACE.
3.I CALL UPON MICHAEL,ANGEL OF THE SOUTH,TO LEND THY POWER AND PROTECT THIS SPACE.
4.I CALL UPON GABRIEL,ANGEL OF THE WEST,TO LEND THY POWER AND PROTECT THIS SPACE.
CALL OF THE DRAGONS
1.NORTH-I CALL UPON THE DRAGONS OF EARTH.PROTECT THIS SPACE ANCIENT WISE ONE AND LEND YOUR MIGHTY POWER
2.EAST-I CALL UPON THE DRAGONS OF AIR.PROTECT THIS SPACE ANCIENT WISE ONE AND LEND YOUR MIGHTY POWER
3.SOUTH-I CALL UPON THE FIRE-DRAGONS.PROTECT THIS SPACE ANCIENT WISE ONE AND LEND YOUR MIGHTY POWER
4.WEST-I CALL UPON THE WATER-DRAGONS.PROTECT THIS SPACE ANCIENT WISE ONE AND LEND YOUR MIGHTY POWER.
CALL THE ELEMENTALS
1.NORTH-I CALL UPON THE GNOMES OF EARTH TO GUARD THIS SPACE AND LEND THY POWER.
2.EAST-I CALL UPON THE SYLPHS OF AIR TO GUARD THIS SPACE AND LEND THY POWER.
3.SOUTH-I CALL UPON THE SALAMANDERS OF FIRE TO GUARD THIS SPACE AND LEND THY POWER.
4.WEST-I CALL UPON THE UNDINES OF WATER TO GUARD THIS SPACE AND LEND THY POWER.
Remeber to face each direction as you call the Guardians,and to visualize them in your minds eye.These creatures exist on the Astral Plane,which means that you will not see them with the human eye,but never fear-they are there non the less. To release,go to each direction and say; "HAIL AND FAIRWELL" Practice these Quarter call until you feel the various energies swimming around you.You could also write your own Quarter call for your favourite animals,unicorns,lions,wolves cats,dolphins etc,using the above as blue print.
NATURAL MAGICK
Magick is a natural force.It harnesses the powers of the Universe to create positive change.Whilst many spells and rituals are complex and use an array of magickal tools,there is one form of magick that anyone can use with surprising results. Natural magick is an ancient practice and its roots go back to neolithic times.Its spells use only the tools given by the Mother - ocean,river,stream,rocks,snow,rain,storms, trees, clouds,stars,fog,flowers and the four elements Earth,Air,Fire and Water.Therefore it is practiced outdoors and in wild places. Natural magick is the simplest branch of the Craft.It is limitless as nature itself,yet the techniques are so simple as to be almost childs play.There are no hard and fast rules.Spells are made up on the spur of the moment.Anything goes and the only way to learn natural magick is to practice it and experiment.For example,when you are faced with a difficult decision,go to a tree and place your receptive hand(the one you DONT write with)on the trunk and tell the tree yor dilemma,asking for guidance.Then sit under the tree for a while and wait to be inspired with the answer. Another form of natural magick is to inscribe your wish in the earth or in a sandy beach.You can do this using symbols or runes and then simply wait for the rain or the tide to take your spell to the Universe. Or you can ask the power of a storm(thunder,rain or snow) to help you in your magick and bring you what you need.For instance ask the rain to shower you with wealth,or the gentle snow to bring you love.You could also empower pebbles,rocks and sea shells with your request by holding them between your palms and visualizing your goal.Then either throw the rock into a body of water such as the ocean or a river,or bury tin the earth.There are many ways to use natural magick.Use your imagination and experiment.And remember that nature is the most powerful force of all.
THE GARDEN ALTAR
The garden is an extension of the covenstead and is a very magickal place.It is an excellent area to practice natural magick.It goes without saying that the garden will need to be relatively private if you are going to practice magick there.with a little thought you can make your garden a truly wonderous and magickal place that you will love to spend time in. Lots and lots of flowers and plants can be grown not only for their beauty but for their magickal symbolism as well.For instance ivy has amazing protective qualities,so grow it up around the walls of your home. If your garden does not have any trees then plant some.Holly and oak are both very magickal as are hawthorn and lilac.Fruit trees are always a joy to have.Hang wind chimes and crystals from the branches to cause a magickal garden of tinkling bells and rainbows. Place garden statues such as satyrs with pan-pipes,stags and deers and Goddess figures around the lawn.If you have a pond place a statue of a mermaid to guard the fish.Small pottery animals can be placed on doorsteps and window sills and patios.Add a wishing well for prosperity and luck. Instead of a bird table why not have a nature table?Find out what wild animals live in your area and put out food and drink for all,as well as the birds.You may discover that you have hedgehogs or squirrels,rabbits badgers and even foxes.Or you may be providing for the stray cats and dogs of your neighbour hood and giving them precious life sustaining food. Although the whole garden should be viewed as a magickal place you could also create a garden altar by placing a tree stump,a rock or a large flat stone in a pretty corner.Surround this with flowers and plants add a statue of the Goddess or God or both and leave offerings of milk and honey every week.If discretion is important simply dig a whole and break a fresh egg into it to sustain and feed the earth.Place an outdoor lantern on or near your altar and enjoy the spot.It is a place filled with power and magick.
CONCLUSION
There is much for you to try in this lesson.Learn the Quarter calls and begin to design your own.Copy them into your Book of Shadows.Try some Natural Magick spells given or experiment with your own.This could include a day out at the coast or the country side or you could begin to design and outdoor altar or nature table for your garden.Enjoy your magick.Enjoy your power.This is Magickal living.
TEN QUESTIONS
1.What is the main aspect of any spell?
2.Does a Witch believe in coincidence or magick?
3.What is the 3rd step of a spell working?
4.Name two ways to raise power?
5.Give the 4 compass points and the elements they correspond to.
6.Who is the Angel of the South?
7.What type of Dragon rules the West?
8.Give the 4 directions and the elementals that correspond to them.
9.Where is natural magick practiced?
10.What tools do you need to perform natural magick?
LESSON 6
THE MOON
Wiccans attune themselves to the moon.They recognize the power that she holds over our world,and her dominion over such things as the tides and the female menstrual cycle.As a student of Witchcraft it is important that you learn to commune with the moon.Gaze upon her fullness and feel her hypnotic power drawing you in.The moon is the symbol of the Goddess,and although Witches are in tune with her movements and cycle,we do not worship the moon itself.Rather we see the serene shining of the moon as nature's representation of all that is feminine,just as we see the sun as being the Earthy symbol of all that is masculine. When you begin to work magick regularly you will find that certain spells should be performed at certain phases of the moon.Therefore it is important that you become familiar with the lunar cycle.There are 5 phases of the moon that concern the working Witch,and they are as follows:- 1.New Moon-for spells of new ventures,new love etc 2.Waxing Moon-a time for spells of attraction 3.Full Moon-the most powerful phase of the lunar cycle.Good for all kinds of magick 4.Waning Moon-for banishing bad habits,removing things from you life 5.Dark Moon-when no moon is visible in the sky,also called the 'Nights of the Morrigan'.Only banishing magick of a serious nature should be done during this phase,as this requires the wrath of the Morrigan. Magick that needs the power of the full moon can actually be performed for 7 days-3 nights before the full moon,the night of the full moon and 3 nights after the full moon.Powerful magick can be worked during this period and if you are unsure of the correct moon phase for a particular spell it is best to perform it on the night of the full moon. During the Dark Moon,NO magick is worked and traditionally this is a period of relaxation and meditation.However,as we said before,if the wrath and protection of the Celtic Warrior Goddess,the Morrigan is needed,then now is when you should invoke her assistance.DO NOT INVOKE HER FOR ANY OTHER PURPOSE. As the earth itself rotates there are thirteen full moons,and each has a specific name.These are traditional country names that have been used for hundreds of years and it is a helpful way for the witch to come to know the moons throughout the year.The names of each full moon are as follows:-
JANUARY-WOLF MOON
FEBRUARY-STORM MOON
MARCH-CHASTE MOON
APRIL-SEED MOON
MAY-HARE MOON
JUNE-DRYAD MOON
JULY-MEAD MOON
AUGUST-HARVEST MOON
SEPTEMBER-BARLEY MOON
OCTOBER-BLOOD MOON
NOVEMBER-SNOW MOON
DECEMBER-OAK MOON
BLUE MOON-variable.A Blue Moon occurs when there are two full moons within the same calendar month.For example,should 2 full moons occur within January,the first would be the Wolf Moon,the second the Blue Moon and the first full moon of February would be the Storm Moon.A Blue Moon is variable and is a very powerful time indeed.It is an excellent time for goal planning and designing your future.It is also a time for looking back and reflecting on all your successes.
MOON MAGICK
Moon magick uses such tools as water,candles and mirrors.It is easy to perform and is an aspect of the Natural magick we talked about in lesson five.As with natural magick there are no rules with moon magick and you must experiment to discover what you prefer and what works best for you. Remember that anything left in the moon's light becomes charged with power,and so you could use moon magick to create a charm or talisman for the purpose of your choice. Another moon spell involves placing a piece of quartz crystal in the moonlight and then giving this power a positive purpose such as healing,protection etc.This is a good spell to prevent insomnia by leaving the moon charged crystal beside your bed and directing the power towards restful sleep. If you need a money spell,then place a bowl of pure spring water outside in the moonlight,walk around it three times,each time dropping in a silver coin.Leave it there all night and bring it into your home at dawn.Keep the coins in your purse but DO NOT spend them. A similar spell works as a beauty ritual.Again,place a bowl of pure spring water outside in the moonlight,add to this a single glass of white wine or milk.Leave it for one hour and then pour the moon charged mixture into your bath water.Relax in the magickal bath allowing your body to absorb the moon's beauty. Magick mirrors are often made and used during esbat rituals,as they represent the moon itself.The mirror used should be round and the simplest spell involves placing the mirror in moonlight and laying a symbol of your desire on it's surface.For example,a paper heart would represent love,a coin would represent wealth etc.the spell works on the principle that whatever is placed on the magick mirror will be reflected back into your life.
ESBATS
Esbats are the Witch's work days.They are nights of working celebartion.Witches hold esbat rituals on the nights of the full moon.There are 13 full moons throughout the year,therefore there are 13 esbats as well as the 8 Sabbats.So as you can see there really is no such thing as a part time Witch,and we generally have some form of celebration and nature ritual to look forward to and prepare for. An Esbat is no less important than a Sabbat and is viewed by Witches as being a powerful time to work magick.The moon at this time is in the period of the Mother,but within her she has the essence of the Maiden and the Crone.This is why witches celebrate at the time of the full moon,as it is the time of the Triple Goddess. One only has to look outside to see the attraction of the full moon,her serene shining orb,bathes the world in a mystic silvery light.The light of the full moon lends magick and mystery to everything her beam touches,and no Witch can fail to be entranced by such beauty. Esbats,also known as Lunar rituals,are the time when most Witches perform magick to improve the lives of those around them.Emergency spells are done on the spot,but if a Witch has a specific need,such as a new job for example,then she would wait and perform a 'job spell' during an esbat ritual on the night of the full moon.Though esbats really should be performed at night,if night time workings are inconvenient then it is permissible to perform an esbat during the day.The moon is always there after all,and you can draw upon her power without the moon being visible in the sky.But if it is possible do perform the ritual at night even if there is cloud coverage as it is a more powerful time to work spells. There are a few traditions that can enhance an esbat ritual.Firstly the altar is usually draped in a white cloth.White and silver are the colours for an esbat and so silver candles should be used to represent the light of the moon.White may also be used.White flowers should be placed on the altar if this is possible. Lilies,morning glories,snow drops,even the humble daisy are all appropriate.Daises are often made into chains and draped over the altar along with white and silver ribbons. Silver jewellery and moonstones can be charged in the moonlight and worn only at esbats,and some female Witches have a special silver dress they wear only for lunar rituals. White wine or milk are traditionally drunk at an esbat rite,and crescent shaped cakes and biscuits are baked and eaten.For this purpose many Witches use croissants because of their shape and mix up fillings or toppings of their favourite foods.New Age tapes of harp music and wolf song can be played in the background to add to the magickal atmosphere. Another practice during an esbat is that of divination.The full moon is a time to solve mysteries as the moons illumination lights up the darkness of the night.This illumination can be tapped into when reading the cards,scrying or casting the runes.Things otherwise hidden can be revealed to you now,but make sure you want to know the truth before embarking on any divination at this time.To tap into the moons light for this purpose,simply leave your chosen divination tool on a window sill in the moonlight for the three nights prior to the full moon.Then use your newly charged tool on the night of the esbat rite,to unveil even the deepest darkest secrets.
DRAWING DOWN THE MOON
Drawing Down the Moon is the name given to the procedure of drawing into oneself the energy and essence of the full moon.This power is then used positively in magickal rites and rituals.During this procedure the Witch enters a light trance state and so it is best to work alone or with trusted friends of a similar interest and frame of mind. At this stage it should be needless for me to say that any magickal procedure takes place within the protection of a cast circle.This includes the practice of drawing down the moon and any magickal workings following and during an Esbat.You do not have to draw down the moon during every single esbat as this could prove to be exhausting,one in every three is usually a good pattern to follow being in tune with the Triple Goddess.This ritual is generally performed by female witches,although there is no rule against a male witch using it to attune with his feminine side.However it is more usual for this to be a feminine rite.
DRAWING DOWN THE MOON RITUAL
This ritual is usually performed outdoors under the light of the full moon.If this is not practical then go to a room where the moon shines in,turn off all the lights and draw the curtains wide,allowing the room to be filled with silvery light. Light the altar candles and an appropriate incense-Night Queen is good.Stand in the Goddess position and repeat the Invocation of the Goddess as given in lesson one.Next,stand in silence gazing at the moon.Contemplate her fullness,her beauty,her eternity.Feel yourself hypnotised by the moon and allow her serenity and calmness to fill you.Now say the following;-
"I(MAGICKAL NAME)NOW DRAW THE POWER OF THE MOON AND THE TRIPLE GODDESS INTO MYSELF.SHE,BRINGER OF LIFE AND LOVE FILLS ME WITH HER JOY,HER BEAUTY,HER TRANQUILITY.THE MAGICK AND POWER OF THE MOON DESCENDS INTO I,HER PRIESTESS".
Stand for a few moments and feel the moon's energy seeping into you.Feel the calmness and tranquility enter your life.Now finish the rite by acknowledging this gift in the following way;-
"THE TRIPLE GODDESS OF THE MOON IS WITHIN ME.SHE AND I ARE NOW ONE.I AM GODDESS,I AM GODDESS,I AM GODDESS".
Continue your esbat rite by performing any divinations or spells that you have planned.When all work is complete turn up the music and eat the crescent cakes and drink the wine/milk.Relax and enjoy.When you are ready take up the circle,your esbat rite is now complete.
CONCLUSION
In this lesson you have learnt the basic principles of esbat ritual and moon magick.Copy the Drawing Down the Moon Ritual into your Book of Shadows.Find out when the next full moon is and plan your esbat rite.What type of magick will you perform,what goal will you work towards?Try one of the spells above and find out when the next Blue Moon occurs.List three things in your Book of Shadows which you are hoping to have achieved before the next Blue Moon.Remember that goal Planning is a very powerful technique and a valuable skill every Witch uses. Enjoy your Esbat.
Questions on Lesson 6
1.Do Witches worship the Moon?
2.What does the moon represent?
3.What does the sun represent?
4.Name five phases of the Moon?
5.What phase is the time of the Morrigan?
6.What is a Blue Moon and when does it occur?
7.What is a Lunar Ritual known as?
8.When does it occur?
9.Who is the Drawing Down the Moon Rite generally performed by?
10.What shape should a magick mirror be?
LESSON 7
CANDLE MAGICK
You are now more than halfway through the course.In the previous lessons you have learned the basics of spell casting,plus the simple arts of both Natural and Moon magick.Now it is the time to turn your attention to more ritualized forms of magick and in this lesson we will be discussing the ancient art of Candle Magick.Candles have been used in magickal rituals since the far off days of the Pharoes. It is a form of magick that is very simple to perform and yet at the same time very effective.The candle represents the light of truth and wisdom and is a very powerful magickal tool.Unfortunately,in our modern times,electricity has replaced the sacred candle in our homes and they are now regarded as novelties than as an essential form of energy.Yet everyone has used candle magick in at least one form probably without even realizing it.For who,as a child has not blown out the candles on a birthday cake and made a wish most dear to their hearts?This is magick and by visualizing our wish as we blow out the candles,we are sending our request out into the universe.This lesson will show you how to bring the light of the truth and wisdom into your life.You will learn the basics of Candle Lore and the Twelve Magickal Colours.You will also come to realize that whatever your purpose,whatever your goal,candle magick can work for you.Begin right now by lighting your Covenstead with the soft yellow glow of candle light and invoking the emotions of peace,harmony and tranquility into your home.Candle magick is known as the simplest form of the Ancient Arts,and by learning the steps and the Magickal Colours,you will have the tools a Witch needs to enhance your life and achieve your own personal goals,be they professional or private.Before you begin to work candle magick,you should make sure that you have a good stock of candles in your Covenstead preferably in all 12 magickal colours,but if this is beyond your means,3 or 4 boxes of plain white household candles will do just as well.A Witch NEVER runs out of candles and there is always an emergency box of kitchen candles tucked away at the back of a cupboard somewhere for when times are hard and magick is needed.Why is candle magick so powerful?Because it incorporates the four main aspects of magick-Earth,Air,Fire and Water.These four elements are used or represented in some way in all forms of magick.In candle magick,the wax itself represents Earth.In lighting the candle the Witch invokes the element of Fire.As the candle smokes so it becomes Air and the liquid wax represents the element of Water.So the seemingly simple act of lighting a candle is in fact a very magickal procedure.Within the realms of magick,like attracts like.This principle is known as Sympathetic Magick and candle rituals are one of the oldest forms of sympathetic magick around.To work candle magick the Witch chooses the correct shade of candle from the 12 magickal colours and then 'charges' it with her need.The candle then consumes the need as it burns,the wax melts,the smoke rises taking the Witch's request out into the universe in a positive way.The higher powers of the universe respond and the need will manifest itself into the Witch's life.Some Witches also inscribe symbols,runes or even simple words along the length of the candle,feeling that this definite direction of focus serves to enhance the candle's power.
The Lunar Cycle is also important in candle magick.We discussed the five phases of the Moon that are important to the Witch in the previous lesson on Moon Magick.However,just to recap here they are again with their magickal significance;-
1.NEW MOON-new beginnings and new adventures
2.WAXING MOON-for spells that bring something into your life.Attraction magick.
3.FULL MOON-the most powerful phase.good for casting all spells and rituals.
4.WANING MOON-for spells that remove something from your life,banishing habits,losing weight etc.
5.DARK OF MOON-Nights of the Morrigan,for binding and banishing spells.
Although a candle ritual can be performed at any time you will find that the power is greatly enhanced if you work at the correct phase of the Lunar cycle.Plus manifestation can even occur more quickly.If you can work your candle ritual at the correct phase of the moon then please do so,but obviously if your need is urgent then there is no reason at all why your spell should not be effective in any phase of the moon.
REMEMBER THE WITCH IS THE MAGICK
Here are a few guidelines that will ensure you obtain the best possible results from your candle magick;
1.NEVER USE THE SAME CANDLE FOR DIFFERENT SPELLS.PERFORM ONLY ONE RITUAL PER CANDLE.
2.NEVER LIGHT A CANDLE WITHOUT USING AND DIRECTING ITS POWER.IF YOU DON'T HAVE A SPECIFIC NEED YOURSELF THEN EITHER WORK FOR A FRIEND OR CHARGE IT WITH AN 'EARTH WISH',EG WORLD PEACE,CLEAN AIR POLLUTION FREE SEAS,ETC
3.NEVER LIGHT A CANDLE WITH A LIGHTER.USE MATCHES AS THE SULPHUR ENHANCES THE POWER.
THE CANDLES
Before beginning or trying any kind of candle spell,you should become familiar with the 12 Magickal Colours and their uses,as it is important that you fully understand the powers that you will be unleashing.Although there is currently much debate about which colour candles should be used for what rituals.the following list is generally accepted and has stood the test of time.The format of the 12 magickal colours is one that most Wiccans use and has been found to be very effective.However,once you are more adept at candle magick you may like to experiment with other colours.For now use the list below to begin with to get the best results.
THE 12 MAGICKAL COLOURS
WHITE/SILVER-for spells of purity,innocence,protection,tru