Month: August 2011

MAGICK AND WITCHCRAFT

MAGICK AND WITCHCRAFT

A number of other occult disciplines are prevalent

today besides magick. There are many cults and sects which

profess their own views, but there are really few differences

between them. One popular area in the occult today is

witchcraft. This is far removed from the cliche of devil

worship. Real witchcraft is a nature religion (pagan).

Witchcraft has much in common with magick.

Alchemy also has much in common with magick. It’s

heritage comes from the middle ages. Alchemy fathered

chemistry and the physical sciences. But the avowed purpose

of alchemy, turning lead into gold, is too limiting to be

called magick. Sometimes the goal of alchemy is interpreted

in another way, as the transformation of man into a spiritual

being.

Then there are the numerous modern day seers or

‘pychics’, as they like to be called, who operate within

their own somewhat unique systems. Although many of these

people are deluded frauds, some are very powerful occultists

indeed.

Of course, everything I have said here is a

generalization. Magick, witchcraft, alchemy, or any occult

field are complex subjects. Suffice it to say that magick

includes them all (it is eclectic). For magick is undoubtedly

a philosophy which has, as the late Aleister Crowley wrote,

“The method of science — the aim of religion.”

WHY DO MAGICK?

WHY DO MAGICK?

Magick encompasses many things — science and art,

philosophy and metaphysics, psychology and comparative

religion. Magick is an adventure at the borderlands of the

unknown. It can fit the pieces of the puzzel of life into a

meaningful whole.

_Magick is fun_ and interesting. Use magick to help

raise consciousness without drugs. Gain new experiences.

Fantacy can come alive through magick. Psychic phenomena can

be controlled and be fun and helpful.

_Magick is beneficial_. It can help you to have

excellent health, and bring you good luck. With magick life

runs smoothly; life is good. Also use magick for personality

improvement, to control bad habits and to develop new

motivations.

_Magick is powerful_. Never underestimate the

tremendous power of magick. Use magick to alter events and to

achieve your goals. Exert an influence over people and

phenomena. But power for its own sake is self defeating. The

power which magick can give you should not be your primary

reason for studying it.

WHY MAGICK

WHY MAGICK

The ability to think seems to set us apart from

other creatures. And although we are concerned with

living in the physical world, we are mental beings. The

fact is we are thinking all the time. We plan, we brood,

we get depressed or elated — all of it is thought. But

the universe is mental too, and if we could control our

thinking we would see magnificent results in the everyday

world.

Many systems have been developed over the ages to

help us control our thoughts. A great amound of dogma too

has been kicked around in an attempt to make us into better

people. Magick (the occult kind, spelled with a ‘k’) is one

of the oldest and most general of these systems. Magick is

the study and application of psychic forces. It uses mental

training, concentration, and a system of symbols to program

the mind. The purpose of magick is to alter the self and the

environment according to the will.

Most of the magick we see today comes to us from

ancient Egypt and Chaldea. The Chinese, Hindus, and Tibetans

developed their own unique types of magick. Western magick

was locked up by the Egyptian priests for thousands of years

and then supressed by the rise of Christianity. It was not

until medieval Europe that magical knowledge was rediscovered

by the alchemists and Cabalists. Only during the past hundred

years or so has western culture been open minded enough to

permit widespread investigation of the subject. Only since

the start of the twentieth century has science shown much

interest in it al all.

Your Daily Influences for August 8th

Your Daily Influences
August 8, 2011

Tarot Influence

Rune Influence
Charm Influence
Four of Cups Reversed
Awakening from a sedate period. New relationships, goals and ventures are possible.
Sowilo
The Sun Rune, denotes power and strength. That which you want may be attained. Sowilo also denotes mental clarity and added warmth to your relationships.
Abracadabra
The most powerful of all talisman indicating you or someone close to you will recover from an infection.
Your Daily Influences represent events and challenges the current day will present for you. They may represent opportunities you should be ready to seize. Or they may forewarn you of problems you may be able to avoid or lessen. Generally it is best to use them as tips to help you manage your day and nothing more.

Today’s Chakra Levels for August 8th

The Chakras represent the seven primary energy hubs in the body. Life force energy is constantly flowing in and out of these centers. Just as the cosmos is constantly changing, so too are the levels of energy absorbed and radiated by our Chakra centers. The graph below is a representation of the quantities of Chakra energies available today.

Sahasrara:
   
95%
 
   
44%
Vishuddha:
   
99%
Anahata:
   
29%
Manipura:
   
4%
Svadhisthana:
   
94%
Muladhara:
   
31%

Legend:
Sahasrara – The Crown Chakra represents energies associated with cosmic consciousness, spirituality, knowledge, wisdom and inner peace.
Ajna – The Third Eye Chakra represents energies focused on both physical and spiritual vision. Psychic powers resonate from the Ajna Chakra, as well as your image of the Cosmos as a whole (the big picture) and the many nuances that make your journey unique.
Vishuddha – Throat Chakra is the energy center associated with communication and creativity. Your energy to express yourself verbally and creatively are derived from the Vishuddha Chakra.
Anahata – The Heart Chakra’s energy is concentrated on issues concerning your emotions. This energy fuels your power to love, feel compassion and maintain balance between disparate aspects of your being.
Manipura – The Power Chakra provides the energy that fuels our strength of will, individuality and sense of self-worth.
Svadhisthana – The Spleen or Sacral Chakra supplies the energy we use emotionally and sexually. This is the energy used to connect to others.
Muladhara – The Root or Base Chakra furnishes the energy used to create and maintain our foundation. This is the energy that keeps us on firm ground and provides us with the basic skills to uphold a place in the world.

The Planets Now for August 8th

Position of the planets based on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
Sun:
15° 54′
in Leo
 Moon:
15° 48′
in Sagittarius
 Mercury:
29° 48′
in Leo
 Venus:
13° 48′
in Leo
 Mars:
03° 37′
in Cancer
Jupiter:
09° 29′
in Taurus
 Saturn:
12° 56′
in Libra
 Uranus:
04° 17′
in Aries
 Neptune:
00° 06′
in Pisces
 Pluto:
04° 57′
in Capricorn
Aspects:
Conjunction: Sun Venus 2º
Opposition: Mars Pluto 1º
Opposition: Mercury Neptune 0º
Sextile: Mercury Mars 3º
Sextile: Moon Saturn 2º
Sextile: Neptune Pluto 4º
Sextile: Sun Saturn 2º
Sextile: Venus Saturn 0º		 Square: Mars Uranus 0º
Square: Uranus Pluto 0º
Square: Venus Jupiter 4º
Trine: Jupiter Pluto 4º
Trine: Mars Neptune 3º
Trine: Mercury Pluto 5º
Trine: Moon Venus 2º
Trine: Sun Moon 0º
The Sun in Leo
Courage and the force of will are primary influences while the Sun visits Leo. In some, a need for recognition may increase dramatically. An air of friendliness should be pervasive. Socializing and enjoying the good things in life are major themes during the Sun’s time in Leo. Those who are willing to assume leadership responsibilities and risks are likely to be richly rewarded during this period. Those with more aggressive personalities should be wary of becoming too domineering.

Sun Sextile or Trine Moon
Keeping a healthy balance between autonomy and the need for personal relationships is very important at this time. The degree of one’s success may be significantly increased by maintaining healthy relationships with family members and friends.

Sun Conjunct Venus
Optimism and kindness are likely to be strong. The desire to be liked by others may be quite powerful as well. Some will exude unusual amounts of charm at this time.

Sun Sextile or Trine Saturn
Responsible actions based on a realistic view of circumstances and your own abilities.
Moon In Sagittarius
The inner warmth of many will burst to the surface and spread across those close to them. Optimism is likely to be very strong during this period. Life’s challenges will be accepted with enthusiasm.

Moon Sextile or Trine Venus
Now is a good time to make sure those close to you realize just how important they are to you.

Moon Sextile or Trine Saturn
Keeping a cool head when faced with crisis is essential for success during this aspect. Those who take the lead in solving problems will be well rewarded.
Mercury In Leo
Logical thinking and consistent behavior are favored. While there may be a pronounced laid-back attitude towards life, an underlying need to succeed and solid planning will power progress. Now is a good time to further one’s education.

Mercury Sextile or Trine Mars
Persuasion through verbalizing sound ideas is a key to success during this aspect. Be wary of becoming dogmatic and verbally domineering.

Mercury Opposition or Square Neptune
This aspect favors those with a rich imagination. Those possessing psychic abilities are likely to be at the peak of their powers.

Mercury Sextile or Trine Pluto
Seeking answers to “hidden truths” is likely to produce positive results during this aspect.
Venus In Leo
Doubts about the validity of “true love” are likely to be stirring one’s private thoughts. Making connections with others could be challenged by creating unrealistic expectations that others cannot possibly meet.

Venus Opposition or Square Jupiter
This aspect is likely to bring out the giving side of many. Tolerance of others as well as the need for a great deal of personal freedom are prominent themes at this time.

Venus Sextile or Trine Saturn
Matters of the heart should be taken very seriously during this aspect. Now is not the time for pointless flings and indiscriminate flirtation.
Mars In Cancer
Focusing energies on family and friends is favored during this period. Ambition and the drive to succeed may be lacking. Protecting what one has already is likely to be more of a motivator than attaining new goals.

Mars Opposition or Square Uranus
Physical and mental energies are likely to be high during this aspect. The drive to attain goals will be so strong in some that their behavior will become obsessive. Short term projects are favored.

Mars Sextile or Trine Neptune
This aspect favors transforming lofty ideas into useful realities.

Mars Opposition or Square Pluto
This aspect favors those who put the full force of their will into reaching their goals. During this time it would be wise not to share one’s plans and ideas with a broad audience.
Jupiter In Aries
Material gain and lifestyle security will be strong influences during this period. Many may take life much more seriously than they usually do. Tackling challenges from a practical approach is likely to yield positive results.

Jupiter Sextile or Trine Pluto
Visions of what is possible on a grand scale are likely during this aspect. Those who set their goals according to their current vision are likely to do well.
Saturn In Libra
Intimacy may be more of a chore than a pleasure. Some will find their progress towards strengthening intimate bonds and attaining goals muted by feelings of inadequacy.

 
Uranus In Aries
The astrological influence of Uranus is measured in increments of 7 years. What this means is that the effects of Uranus influence an entire generation. Day to day the Uranian influence may be imperceptible, but when the period is viewed as a whole the impact of Uranus is likely to be strikingly apparent.

Iconoclasm, independence and self-sufficiency are likely to be major themes during this period. Traditional values will be challenged. Those with a pioneering spirit will flourish.

Uranus Square Pluto
A mental restlessness and the need for complete personal freedom are possible influences of this aspect. In some the need for total autonomy may be so strong that they will challenge any attempt to subdue their independence.
Neptune In Pisces
Because Neptune takes approximately 14 years to move across Pisces its day to day influence may be imperceptible, but when the period is viewed as a whole the impact of Neptune in Pisces is likely to be strikingly apparent.

Gentleness, creativity, and the pursuit of spiritual truth are strong influences at this time. Many may find mysticism and unorthodox religions very attractive.

Neptune Trine Pluto
The exploration of spiritual issues is favored during this aspect. Introspection should lead many to better understand the underlying motives behind their behavior.
Pluto In Capricorn
Because Pluto takes approximately 15 years to move across Capricorn its day to day influence may be imperceptible, but when the period is viewed as a whole the impact of Pluto in Capricorn is likely to be strikingly apparent.

Strong economic gains can be made during this period. Pluto in Capricorn favors those who are able to make logical decisions and devise pragmatic solutions to the challenges before them.

Your Deck of Ancient Symbols Card for August 8th is Tree

Your Deck of Ancient Symbols Card for Today

The Tree

The Tree symbolizes spiritual health and growth. The healthy tree is rooted in a rich, nurturing medium, has a strong trunk from which leaf laden branches fan out to capture the sun’s energy. The Tree represents a healthy spirit entrenched in experience and strengthened by wisdom. It is a spirit that is happy with itself, but continues reaching to become even wiser, more complete, happier, stronger. While The Tree represents a strong and independent spirit, it is also a life-force that owes much of its strength and growth to being surrounded by other healthy spirits.

As a daily card, The Tree denotes a time when your spiritual self is especially powerful and open for further growth. Now is a time for you to seek out streams of wisdom and knowledge that you can not only draw from but contribute to as well. Don’t disregard sources that seem improbable, as they often produce the most profound revelations and spiritual expansion.

Today’s Runes for August 8th is Wunjo

Today’s Runes

Ice Runes are most commonly used for questions about struggle, conflict, and achievement. Wunjo is the rune of Joy. Since joy is least frequently a solitary emotion, this rune often represents mutual or communal bliss. Wunjo is also seen as a rune of the gods and a rune of perfection, carrying with it the elation that blazes from the creation of a perfect work – perhaps this is the true joy of the gods, that they can create perfection. That aside, this rune does not focus on the struggle for perfection or on our inevitable imperfections, but rather on a job well done and the satisfaction that comes from it.

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for August 8th is 39: Temporary Obstacles

39: Temporary Obstacles

Hexagram 39

General Meaning: Have temporary obstacles been blocking your way? In the course of trying to reach a goal or to fulfill a personal ambition, obstructions inevitably present themselves. This is not always a bad thing. Obstacles, difficulties and even setbacks that are eventually overcome often turn into assets. Without irritating grains of sand, oysters would never make pearls.

The obstacles pointed to here are not permanent, yet they are in the way. As when a large boulder falls in the road, the best course of action is usually to go around it, rather than to try to move it out of the way. Temporary obstacles must be seen for what they are — temporary — and should not be allowed to take on too much significance.

A positive aspect of even the most difficult obstacle is that it may cause a person to turn inward, and gain greater depth and character. While the ignorant bemoan their fate and seek to blame their problems on others, the wise seek the cause of the problem within themselves. Through this type of introspection, obstacles become a means for personal growth and self-discovery.

Without air resistance, no plane would ever fly.

If you are facing temporary obstacles, try not to be overly concerned. Obstacles are a part of achieving every goal and furthering every undertaking. Setbacks and reverses can affect morale, but keeping up your self-confidence in the face of challenges is part of a successful solution to many of life’s problems. Obstacles of short duration are best handled with a yielding attitude. Go around the rock, don’t put your shoulder to it.

Your Daily Number for August 8th: 9

Today you may be feeling a sense of doubt about past decisions; don’t. You may feel a great deal of emotional stress today, so combat negative feelings by being active and creative in your everyday life. Find solace in distraction.

Fast Facts

About the Number 9

Theme: Encompassing a love for all, Compassion, Patience, Selfless
Astro Association: Virgo
Tarot Association: Hermit

Today’s Tarot Card for August 8th is The World

The World

This Tarot Deck: Oswald Wirth

General Meaning: What has traditionally been known as the World card points to the presiding intelligence, called “Sophia,” or Wisdom, which upholds life on this and all worlds. A more precise title for this card might be “the Soul of the World,” also applicable as a symbol of personal empowerment and freedom. In most Tarot decks it is a female figure that has become our standard World image. She originates in Hebrew, Gnostic and Alchemical lore, and stands between heaven and earth as the Cosmic Mother of Souls, the Wife of God and our protector from the karmic forces we have set loose upon the Earth in our immaturity and ignorance.

Where the Empress energy secures and fertilizes our terrestrial lives, the goddess of The World invites us into cosmic citizenship — once we come to realize our soul’s potential for it. Just as the Chariot stands for success in achieving a separate Self, and Temperance represents achievement of mental and moral health, the World card announces the awakening of the soul’s Immortal Being, accomplished without the necessity of dying.

This card, like the Sun, is reputed to have no negative meaning no matter where or how it appears. If the Hermetic axiom is “Know Thyself”, this image represents what becomes known when the true nature of Self is followed to creative freedom and its ultimate realization.

Your Daily Horoscopes for August 8th

Today’s farseeing Sagittarius Moon inspires us to think big while retrograde Mercury skips back into dramatic Leo, encouraging us to deliver our messages with an extra punch. However, the tipsy trickster bumps into a confusing opposition with fuzzy Neptune, repeating this stressful aspect that recently occurred on July 29. We would be wise to pay extra attention to all forms of communication because our good intentions could get lost in the fog.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may be the leader of the gossip squad at work today because you can waste time as long as you’re having fun. But you are so quick-witted now that you might say something that shouldn’t be shared. Words slip out of your mouth before you think about their impact. Keep in mind that taking a few breaths before speaking up won’t make you less popular; in fact, slowing down your delivery may be enough to save you from an embarrassing situation.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You appear to be putting in maximum effort on the job, but you can simultaneously lose yourself in your daydreams, even if your double life isn’t noticed by anyone else. Although others cannot tell how far from reality your mind is meandering, they can see that your rich imagination is adding something special to your practical ideas. Don’t hesitate to share your creative point of view, even if it seems unrealistic to you at first.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You may be at a turning point in a friendship because you need to decide if you’re going to take it to the next level or retreat to emotionally safer ground. Be careful, for you could make a bad choice today if you let your hopes color your perceptions. Postpone any major decisions for a couple of days, if you can. Once your muddled thinking clears, you’ll be able to choose your course of action with more confidence.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

It’s challenging to compare your idealistic dreams with what you currently have in your life. The gulf between your fantasies and reality may be so great now that you don’t even know where to begin. Instead of setting yourself up for failure by aiming too high, try a more modest start. Acknowledging what you’ve already accomplished is better than tearing yourself down with self-criticism. Beginning with a few simple affirmations can give you the positive boost you need.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may be basking in the light of admiration today, but you could fool yourself into thinking that everyone is your friend. It isn’t that anyone is necessarily working against you; it’s just that others have their own agendas and it’s crucial for you to understand where they diverge from yours. Don’t waste your breath trying to convince anyone that you’re right. If you can be satisfied with what each person has to offer now, you won’t set yourself up for disappointment.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

You could have a tough time staying on track today because you can see fantastic possibilities everywhere you look. Although you know that hard work is key in reaching your goals, your optimism leads you to believe a task will be easier than it is. Still, you are at a fork in the road and you may not know which way to go. Just remember that you are probably missing some crucial facts, so it’s wiser to take the more conservative route, even if it means walking away from the excitement for now.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You’re a bit of a social butterfly today, flying from one captivating conversation to another. However, this doesn’t mean that you should try to avoid a more pressing subject, even if it leads to unfamiliar territory. You can still clear the air by sharing what’s important to you, but circumvent a passionate discussion for a few days.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

No matter how certain you are of your current choices, it’s not a good idea to trust your senses today because they can easily mislead you. Don’t allow yourself to be lulled into a state of hypnotic acceptance. Even if you’re dreaming of smooth sailing ahead, there are storm clouds on the horizon and you are advised to batten down the hatches while the Sun is still shining. Ironically, a rough patch might be enough of a wake-up call to get you back on course.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

The Moon’s visit to your optimistic sign can raise feelings of nostalgia as you remember a kinder and gentler version of your past. But it’s not smart to believe the stories you tell now because you may have changed the facts to support your current mood. There’s nothing wrong with reviewing your personal history as long as you understand that you can’t live fully in the present moment when you’re clinging too tightly onto memories.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You may be tempted by an unrealistic fantasy about a relationship now. However, your idealistic dreams can actually stand between you and happier days. Acknowledging your attachment to one particular outcome is a good start if you’re willing to make it less important. There’s no need to go to extremes and deny your preferences if you can maintain a healthy perspective.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Perhaps you thought that you had everything under control, but today you may miss an important piece of the puzzle. Fortunately, it’s not necessary to fix anything if you make a wrong assumption. Becoming more aware of your mistakes is enough for now. Don’t initiate action too quickly or you could stir up a hornet’s nest that leads to an intense power struggle. Your relationships are in flux, so take time to see where things are going before trying to exert too much control.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You are an avid dreamer and today’s Mercury-Neptune aspect magnifies your wishful thinking. You can journey so far into the depths of your imagination that you may lose track of what’s going on in the real world. An unexpected event can shock you into awareness, waking you from your contemplative state and confronting you with the truth. It may be very disconcerting at first, but the reality check could be a blessing in disguise.

New Moon Report for August 8th – Mercury in Leo

Mercury in Leo

Monday, August 8, 2:46 am PDT, 5:46 am EDT

Mercury backing into grandiose Leo can inflate the importance of our own ideas. It’s tempting to defend positions out of pride even if facts don’t agree. Separating ego from intellect with a bit of objectivity can counter this reactionary impulse. The upside of this transit is the recovery of creative concepts that have been left lingering on the vine and are now ripe for picking.

Yucca

Yucca:  The desert Native American tribes used yucca to alleviate rheumatic and arthritic pain. First, it was split in two and allowed to dry. There approximately one tablespoon of ground yucca was boiled in two cups of water for fifteen minutes for a medicinal tea.

Charge of the Goddess

CHARGE OF THE GODDESS

By Charles Leland, Gerald Gardner, and Doreen Valiente.

Listen to the words of the Great Mother, She who of old was also called among the people Artemis, Astarte, Cerridwen, Hecate, Demeter, Danu, Ishtar, and man other names:
Whenever ye have need of any thing, once in the month, and better it be when the Moon is full, then shall ye asssemble in some quiet place and adore the Spirit of me, who am Queen of all Witcheries, and thou who thinkest to seek for me, know thy seeking and yearning shall avail thee not unless thou knowest the mystery:
That if that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee, thou wilt never find it without thee.
For behold! I have been with thee from the beginning, and I am that which is attained at the end of desire.