Category: Miscellaneous Pagan

Witches Answer to Witchcraft Questions

I have books about Witchcraft some I have had for years yet only getting around to reading them now. This is one of those books. “A Witch’s Book of Answers” is an outgrowth of the Open Sesame e-list hosted by Cerelia and me, along with Ororo since 1999. This book is based on actual questions asked on the list over the years — and our responses to them.” As I am reading it the Muse, Calliope, who inspires and guides me quite often on what to post on here she helps with spell wording, new rituals for Esbats and Sabbats, or basically anything I maybe writing, coloring, painting, etc in short she advises me or inspires me anytime I need or want to be creative Calliope whispered in my ear that she would let me know what gems I should pass along to you from A Witch’s Book of Answers.

A Witch’s Book of Answers

By Eileen Holland and Cerelia

Copyright 2003

Page 5 — “Who can be a Witch? Anyone who can find his or her way to the Goddess — and is willing to spend the necessary time reading, studying, learning, and practicing — can be a Witch. A Witch must have patience, imagination, compassion, focus, and willpower.”              by  Eileen

Page 6 —- “What type of attitude should a Witch have? To me, the most important thing that anyone can believe is, “I like myself.” You must like yourself and respect yourself in order to like and respect others. You must be able to do this first, and then take responsibility for your actions.” by Cerelia

“A big part of being a Witch is having respect for yourself. This includes never allowing anyone to mistreat you, physically or otherwise. No Witch should ever tolerate violence or abuse.

I recommend this book for any witch that has a question but cannot find the answer. While this book does not answer every question about Witchcraft, The Craft, The Old Ways or whatever label I any you choose for your path because thank the Great Mother and Great Father we do not follow a religion rather we walk a spiritual path that for the most part we forge a head they way we feel is right to us.

Unrealistic Definitions of Witchcraft

As a Witch or Pagan or however you refer to yourself while walking your magickal and spiritual path we have faced an uphill battle for acceptance for centuries and still do. So, I decided to do a general search for the definition of Witchcraft and was astounded by what I found. Here are a few examples along with the hyperlink from my general search-

Source: Data from Oxford Languages:

witch·craft
[ˈwiCHˌkraft]
noun
witchcraft (noun)
the practice of magic, especially for evil purposes; the use of spells:
“children and goods were believed to be vulnerable to the witchcraft of jealous neighbors”
Similar:

sorcery
black magic
occultism
wizardry
witching
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  • (in a modern context) religious practice involving magic and affinity with nature, usually within a pagan tradition.
  • bewitching or fascinating attraction or charm.

Source: merriam-webster.com

Synonyms of witchcraft
1a: the use of sorcery or magic
b: communication with the devil or with a familiar
2: an irresistible influence or fascination
3a: rituals and practices that incorporate belief in magic and that are associated especially with neo-pagan traditions and religions (such as Wicca)
Practitioners of Wicca … use the tools … such as the broom (a purifying symbol), the wand, candles, crystals and the knife …. They refer to their practices as witchcraft …—Lesley Wright

b: or less commonly Witchcraft : a tradition or religion that involves the practice of witchcraft

Feminist witchcraft sees women’s oppression and environmental abuse, which they argue are intimately linked, as firmly rooted in patriarchal religions. —Wendy Griffin

Wicca, which emerged in the 1940s in England, is the original form of modern Pagan Witchcraft.
-Meg Yardley

Please go look for yourself on how our spiritual and magickal paths are defined.

General Search for the Definition of Witchcraft

Witchcraft today…Has it affected you? c.2020

Witchcraft today is going strong. Most people think if you are practicing witchcraft is has to be evil when in truth its actually how you practice it.

I am firm believer in practicing witchcraft and practice it in the light. I know most people get scared and walk away from you. Well, that has happened to me since I have begun this journey. I am also a spiritual medium and I have lost so called friends from finding that out.

Do I care? No, they didn’t deserve me in their life. Witchcraft and mediumship is very important to me. I live my life the way I want to and I don’t need anyone’s approval for that. Accept me as I am or I don’t or need you in my life.

So, has this happened to you? I am sure it has but you know what don’t let it get you down. Just keep going and hold your head up.

Blessed be,

Melinda

Amanda and Kevin Handfasting

Congratulations to Amanda and Kevin!!!!

Thank you so much for sharing your special day with all of us! Also, for the open invitation to visit you.

Amanda and Kevin in Devon with the Exeter Morris Men dancing and the Hurdy Gurdy man and medieval musicians from Exeter also.

If anyone who is passing through east Devon and would love to say hello you are very welcome.

Lady Beltane you can give my business email if you like it’s theminifarm444@gmail.com

(Side Note from LCB: There are 4 videos also but I have not figured out how to download them than find out where they saved on my desktop computer. When I find them and figure out how to get them accessible to post I will share them.)

The Five Elements Symbolism and Meaning

The nature of symbolic languages is that they must, of need, touch on all corners of creation and bind life into a framework. The word symbolism actually comes from two Greek terms that rather unpretentiously means “throw together.”

From this we get the loftier Webster definition that says a symbol suggests or represents something else. In this case we are sneaking a peek through history’s red curtain (shhh don’t tell) at the bare bones of the Five Sacred Elements.

These energies – Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit – “throw together” all of creation. That’s one heck of an evolutionary salad, and it has affected human transformation since the dawn of time.

The 5 Elements

The Greeks, ever waxing philosophical, were among one of the great civilizations to put the concept of Elemental energies into a functional context.

Thankfully you won’t need to pull out your toga to grasp the fundamentals (unless you want to – in which case, we expect an invitation).

Effectively they wrote that Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Aether (Spirit or Quintessence) make up everything in the world. Alchemists of the time then made four triangular symbols to represent all but Spirit, whose form remains elusive even with all our technological gee-gaws.

Using the Greek model, Earth is the most material and mundane. Let’s face it – a rock is a rock and pretty straightforward (unless you’re talking about spiritually charged crystals, but that’s a topic for another article).

Nonetheless without this cornerstone the remaining elements could not function. Consider that Earth’s atmosphere is what gives us air, food, living waters, etc. Take that away and the remaining picture is pretty grim.

Water is the next element, followed by Air and Fire, building toward the refined pinnacle of Spirit that acts as a nucleus for this magical party.

In many metaphysical traditions learning mastery over one or more elements is part of classical training, but to master anything you must first respect it and second understand all its diverse facets.

If the Medicine Man says you’re not ready to play with fire – LISTEN or the Fire spirit will teach you the hard way.

Symbolism Correspondences

Invoking the 5 Elements

5 Elements Metaphysical Correspondences

Click here to read the rest of this article

The 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief

In the 1970s in the United States, a coalition of Wiccan groups banded together and set to put and end to misconceptions about Wicca. For too long, they thought, Wicca had been subject to uninformed stereotypes, stigma, and lack of proper recognition. So, what are the thirteen principles exactly?

The Thirteen Principles of Wiccan Belief were a summation to clear up misconceptions about Wicca and they outlined concepts such as: non-harm, disassociation from the devil, acknowledging the power of nature and the spiritual world, and living in harmony with the universe.

They also covered some societal issues like environmental responsibility and equality of the sexes. The federation wanted to communicate what Wicca was, and also what it was not.

The Principles are monumental because Wiccans and neo-Pagans are loosely organised and often can never agree. However the 13 principles of Wiccan belief forged an agreement among these diverse groups. The legacy of this historic agreement still lasts today.

Origination of the 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief

Click here to read the rest of this article found on wiccangathering.com

Wiccan (Witch/Pagan) Values

The Triple Goddess and Horned God Symbols

Duality of the Divine

Wiccans honor the duality of the divine through understanding while reality is split into the male and female aspects, divinity is ultimately united an as interconnected whole.

Magic is Real

It is often defined using this quote from Crowley, “Magic is the Science and Art of causing Change to occur with the conformity with Will.” Wiccans believe that Magic is not greed or power, rather it is a force by6 which what can be imagined can be created and become real.

Nature is Sacred

The rhythms of nature pulse with that of human life course as the divine is woven into its very fabric. Being attuned with nature means believing that all of nature is sacred and should be held in reverence rather than dominated.

All Paths are Blessed

Wiccans see their chosen path as only one of a myriad of possible spiritual paths available. While many other religions espouse a single path to enlightenment. Wiccans believe that all paths lead to the divine are equally acceptable and blessed.

Personal Connections to the Divine

Whether working with a coven or as a solitary practitioner, the connection to the divine is a very personal process. maintaining, building, and sustaining a relationship with the divine is an individual responsibility.

(Side Note: Here is where I feel different pagan traditions diversify the most. Some traditions do not believe these next two need to be followed or believed in. I am not one of those individuals. After walking a dark path for 2 years I came to fully believe in them and teach them to anyone who apprentices under me. But I do refer to the Wiccan Rede as the Wicce Rede meaning a wise women’s rede.)

The Wiccan Rede

“Do what ye will, lest it harm none.” Wiccans are free to engage in any behavior they choose as long as their actions do not harm themselves or others.

The Rule of Three (or The Three-Fold Law)

All the good and all the harm a person does to others will return threefold in this life. Every magical act sent out into the universe will return to the witch three times over.

Source: spells8.com

A Brief History of Witchcraft: From Ancient Times to Modern Day

Witchcraft, a term often shrouded in mystery and misconception, has a long and fascinating history that spans across ancient civilizations to the modern day. With its roots embedded in beliefs and practices dating back thousands of years, witchcraft has evolved and adapted over time, leaving an indelible mark on cultures worldwide. A Brief History of Witchcraft: From Ancient Times to Modern Day seeks to unravel the enigma surrounding this intricate topic, shedding light on its significance in contemporary society.

Throughout history, witchcraft has been associated with a wide range of beliefs and practices, varying greatly across different cultures and time periods. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Mesopotamians had their own unique interpretations of magic and divination, often intertwining with religious rituals. The Greek and Roman empires also held a deep fascination with witchcraft, linking it to various deities and goddesses.

During the Middle Ages, Europe witnessed a significant shift in attitudes towards witchcraft. An era marked by widespread fear and superstition, many came to perceive witches as individuals empowered by demonic forces, capable of inflicting harm on others through sorcery. This perception fueled the infamous witch trials, resulting in the persecution and execution of countless individuals, predominantly women, accused of practicing witchcraft.

However, as societal attitudes gradually shifted, so too did the understanding of witchcraft. The witch trials became a source of critique and condemnation, revealing the fallibility of the legal systems and the destructive power of mass hysteria. This pivotal moment in history sparked a reevaluation of witchcraft, leading to the emergence of new philosophical and intellectual movements, such as the Renaissance and the Enlightenment.

In modern times, witchcraft has experienced a resurgence, with an increasing number of individuals embracing it as a spiritual or cultural practice. Paganism and Wicca, two contemporary religious movements, have drawn inspiration from ancient witchcraft beliefs, emphasizing elements of nature worship, divination, and personal empowerment. Today, witchcraft has become a symbol of resistance, a way for individuals to reclaim their autonomy and connect with a deeper, more spiritual aspect of themselves.

As the interest in witchcraft grows, so does the need for comprehensive resources that provide an accurate and unbiased understanding of its history and significance. A Brief History of Witchcraft: From Ancient Times to Modern Day aims to fill this need, presenting an in-depth exploration of the subject matter. By delving into the origins, cultural variations, and contemporary expressions of witchcraft, this book offers readers an invaluable insight into a topic that continues to captivate and intrigue. Whether one approaches the subject from an academic, spiritual, or simply curious standpoint, this historical journey through the world of witchcraft promises to leave a lasting impact, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of human belief systems and the ever-evolving nature of our understanding.

What are the origins of witchcraft and how has it evolved throughout history? Click here to read the rest of this article

Ancient temple and theater 3,500 years older than Machu Picchu discovered in Peru

Archaeologists in Peru have unearthed the remains of what they believe are a 4,000-year-old temple and theater, shining a new light on the origins of complex religions in the region.

The team began studying the new archaeological site of La Otra Banda, Cerro Las Animas, in June. Last year, the local government alerted them to looting that had been taking place near the northern Peruvian town of Zaña, according to a press release from the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois, Wednesday.

They excavated a plot roughly 33 feet long and 33 feet wide, finding signs of ancient walls made of mud and clay at just six feet deep.

“It was so surprising that these very ancient structures were so close to the modern surface,” Luis Muro Ynoñán, a research scientist at the Field Museum who led the team, said in the release.

After digging deeper, archaeologists found “one section” of a large temple, Muro Ynoñán said, adding that “one of the most exciting” finds was a small theater “with a backstage area and a staircase that led to a stage-like platform.”

“This could have been used to perform ritual performances in front of a selected audience,” he added

One of the theater’s staircases was flanked by mud panels with an elaborate carved design of a mythological bird-like creature, according to the release. The figure resembled other images of mythological creatures dating to the Initial Period, around 2,000 to 900 BC, giving clues to when the temple was built.

“The Initial Period is important because it’s when we first start to see evidence of an institutionalized religion in Peru,” Muro Ynoñan said, adding that Please click here to read the rest of this article

Obon Festival 2024 in Japan: Meaning, Traditions and Dates

The Obon festival (お盆, also known as Bon festival) is an annual Japanese holiday that commemorates and remembers deceased ancestors. It is believed that their spirits return at this time to visit their relatives.

Chochin (paper) lanterns are hung to guide the spirits and Obon dances (bon odori) are performed. Families have reunions and visit the graves of their relatives and make food offerings at altars and temples.

It is observed from the 13th to the 15th day of the 7th month. However, according to the solar calendar the 7th month is July but according to the lunar calendar, the 7th month is August. Obon is therefore celebrated at different times in different regions depending on which calendar is observed.

The official dates are August 13-15 though it will be celebrated between July 13-15 in some places. The Obon week in mid-August is one of Japan’s three major holiday seasons making it one of the busiest times of the year for traveling. Many Japanese people will leave their cities around August 10 and come back on August 17-18.

Obon traditions and celebrations

On the first day of Obon, people take the chochin lanterns to the graves of their families. They call their ancestors’ spirits back home in a ritual called mukae-bon. In some regions, huge fires are lit at the entrances of houses to guide the spirits to enter.

At the end of the Obon festival, families help their ancestors’ spirits return back to the grave by guiding them with their chochin lanterns. The ritual is called okuri-bon. Again, the ritual varies slightly between different regions of Japan.

Floating lanterns (toro nagashi) Please click here to read the rest of this article

Common Practice and Beliefs within Druidry

Introduction

Those who practise Druidry do so through a deep spiritual connection perceived and experienced within the land and its culture. Many, when they first find Druidry, describe the feeling as ‘coming home’; they have rediscovered a connection with the land, its people, history, heritage and culture. This is more than mere interest; imbued with wonder, gratitude, respect and a sense of the perpetual flow of time, it inspires a devotional commitment, an acknowledgement of the sacred and a recognition of deity (male, female and non-gendered gods) within these currents of nature. This is the foundation of Druid practice.

The issue as to whether modern Druidry has any clear link back to pre-Roman Britain is debated. Historically Druidry was essentially an oral tradition and no texts are available written by our pre-Roman ancestors. However, the religious and spiritual traditions survived in folklore, through poetry and mythologies, within the development of British/western philosophy and the bardic colleges. A good deal was incorporated into Christianity when it came to these lands, particularly surviving in rural churches where Paganism continued side by side with the new religion. In the eighteenth century a resurgence of Druidry led to academic scrutiny of Classical and Mediaeval texts and a good deal of today’s common Druidic practice is based on interpretation of that material. This scrutiny continues today and Druids use this as a link to their ancestral past. As a religion today, Druidry is ever evolving. So common practice is gained through Druids coming together and sharing their experiences, rituals and celebrations.

Diversity

Many come to Druidry because of its diversity. Freedom of expression and personal connection to deity is, for them, of paramount importance. Connection to the divine is gained through experience, neither through belief nor through reciting prayers that are essentially another’s understanding or vision. As a polytheistic religion, individuals devote themselves to and revere deities who express different aspects of nature and ancestry. For example, Cerridwen is a goddess of the dark, the waning moon, the cauldron of potential; Brighid is a goddess of fire, light and assertive action. The rituals and practice of Druids honouring one or other of these as their principal deity would differ accordingly.

Druids take their inspiration from Nature. Within the British Isles we have a huge diversity of landscape and this is reflected in the practice of individuals and local groups or Groves. If a Druid is inspired by their local north sea coast, his gods and religious focus would be different from a Druid inspired by the rolling hills and woodlands of the Cotswolds, or the open moors of Devon. Similarly a Druid grove celebrating the festival of midwinter in an urban garden in Kent will look and feel very different from a grove celebrating in the Highlands of Scotland, were most of its members are dependent on rural or agricultural livelihoods: winter means something very different to both groves. All these individuals and groves are equally honouring (and seeking relationship with) Nature.

Druids are inspired too by their ancestors. To a Druid, ancestry is not a vague concept, but a gathering of individuals, each with their strengths and weaknesses, their own stories of success and failure. Druidry’s diversity is further expressed through the fact that each person has a different line of ancestors, and a different relationship with those people: this may manifest through a religious practice that focuses on a certain temple or landscape, myth or poet, skill or occupation. Again, such practice may appear significantly distinct, say, if we were to observe a farmer, a blacksmith, a writer or healer. As Druids, all are honouring their ancestors, nonetheless, by using the skills inherited and so expressing the spiritual devotion, gratitude and reverence required of the Druid.

The reverence for nature that is integral to Druidry also provides a morality or ethical base that is common to all Druids. Like any moral code, whether religious or secular, it is interpreted with slight differences. However, honour, respect, truth and justice are of primary importance and constitute the basis of all Druid practice. This doesn’t dilute Druidry, but brings to it a richness that is welcomed and celebrated. Thus, paradoxically, diversity is both a strength and a cohesive element of Druid practice.

There are further elements of Druid practice and ritual that are common to all within the tradition and these we shall explore.

Major Festivals

Most adherents of modern Druidry celebrate eight major festivals and these can be further subdivided into the Solar Festivals and Celtic Fire Festivals, which may also be known as agricultural, pastoral, seasonal or cross quarter festivals. Some Groves and individuals only work with the Solar and some only with the Fire Festivals. Placed around the course of the year, they occur every 5-7 weeks, and generally Druids will at this time make ritual, giving offerings.

The purpose of the festivals is to ensure two things: Click here to read the rest of this article 

8 Protection Rules Every Witch Should Know

Click here for more information on 8 Protection Rules Every Witch Should Know

New Moon in Gemini 2024 – and Tarot Readings for Each Zodiac Sign

Source: thetarotlady.com

New Moons occur when the Sun and Moon align in the same sign. They signal the beginning of a new lunar cycle and the opportunity to start new things. This year’s New Moon in Gemini is auspicious because a bevy of planets are forming a Gemini conga line in the cosmos. Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter are moving through the sign of the Twins, adding extra oomph to all things associated with Gemini, especially communication, learning, and information. The day could be filled with interesting news or opportunities to expand your mind. Of course, you’ll need to be discerning because disinformation could be in the mix. Gemini energy is tricky like that. Not everything you hear will be accurate, so listen carefully.

Before the New Moon, the Sun and Venus align on the 4th, a potent aspect associated with self-expression, optimism, and attraction. This lays out the red carpet for effective manifestation work. What do you want to bring into your life? Sketch out your dreams and be ready to send those intentions to the Universe when the New Moon arrives on June 6th at 8:38 AM EDT.

The New Moon in Gemini 2024 is supported by a sweet conjunction with Venus at 9:36 AM EDT, which is like a cosmic blessing. Venus is a benefic, so this amplifies luck. In other words: you better wish!

This is also an excellent day for lively conversations, writing, thinking, debating, flirting, and starting new intellectual pursuits. Sign up for that class, begin working on that novel, say heyyyy to that hottie, and catch up on all the latest dirt. Who can be bored when this clever mutable energy is so abundant?

One caveat: the Moon squares off with Saturn at 1:19 PM EDT. This could rain on that Gemini parade, but it won’t last long. If you sense a sour vibe setting in, take a break until it blows over. It’s also possible this might be when disinformation is running wild. Once again, be careful what you take in. If it doesn’t ring true, it’s probably bullshit.

Other than that bit of nonsense, this day is LIT. Let’s do this!

Aries: Four of Swords – Rest up. You have big things coming due and need to conserve your energy.

Taurus: Five of Swords – The ugly truth is revealed. Now you can see other people’s true colors.

Gemini: Two of Wands – You are in a great position. Everything is possible. Think big!

Cancer: Star – A great healing is taking place. Peace, harmony, and health are on the way.

Leo: Three of Cups – Your social life gets busy. Fun, celebration, and good times! Yay!

Virgo: Six of Swords – You are moving on, away from situations that no longer serve you. Look ahead.

Libra: Ten of Swords – Something has come to an end. Rise up! New possibilities are ready to bloom!

Scorpio: Page of Swords – Important professional news is on the way. This could be a mentally stimulating period.

Sagittarius: Nine of Pentacles – Everything prospers you now. Be grateful for your good fortune.

Capricorn: Queen of Cups – Love flows all around you. Open your heart and let it transform you!

Aquarius: The Emperor – You are in the power position. Call the shots and protect the realm.

Pisces: Seven of Swords – It may be necessary to fly under the radar. Don’t reveal your hand.

Blessings,

Theresa

Some Tips on Empowering Charms and Keeping Them Cleansed

First do not use the word talisman or amulet in place of charm. The reason being is they are three different types of objects. Also we are not talking about charms you would find on a charm bracelet. A talisman is the equivalent of a good luck piece or can be spelled for protection and it carried with you all the time. An amulet is usually a necklace with a pendant hang from it the has been spelled and charged for protection, a closed connection to a Goddess or God, a symbol of a person’s spiritual practice. An amulet can be spelled for a purpose such as protection or to keep others’ emotions from getting to you in a limited way and still be a symbol of a person’s spiritual practice. Anything from a leaf to a seven-foot candle including anything you might want to use as a charm in your home, at work, or in your vehicle. Today we will be concentrating on spelling a charm.

Always form a sacred circle to do your spell work in. Remember to either ground or let the positive energy free when you open your sacred circle. You need to cleanse the object of all energy except what it is made of, so when you spell the object there is no one else’s energy involved in it but your own. Call in whatever Goddess(es) and/or God(s) will help you achieve the outcome for your spell.

Make sure your spell wording is very specific for what you want the spell to do before you empower an object. Otherwise, anyone who has touched the object before their energy will remind on or in the object and will weaken your spell work.

So now you have your sacred circle done and the object cleansed awaiting your energy and spell work to empower to make it into a charm. You should repeat your spell a minimum of three times. I repeat the spell nine times for maximum power. I usually than sit in the circle holding the object I just charmed until I feel it is time to put it wherever I am going to use the charmed object. I picture sitting wherever I am placing it and doing whatever I have empowered/spelled it to do. Once you feel you have put as much energy into as you want to for that day let the Goddess(es) and/or God(s) depart with you thanking them for their help.

(I have a glass container in every room in my home they all contain some stones, a feather, wooden matchstick, and a seashell of some sort. I have them charmed to not only help protect our home but to continuedly trickle out loving positive energy. These are simple to make and when we have visitors they really don’t ask about the container and to them strange contents. Pick glass containers that fit in with your homes decor and then they appear as a nick knack. More on these in Tomorrow Spell For Today)

Now it is time to open your sacred circle you can either ground on excess enrgy you raised to Mother Earth for however she wants to use it or just let it go into the Universe to be used however it wants to use it.

These suggestions for charms come from shiroshine:

Whenever I charge a charm of any sort, I mark my calendar to remind me to check-in on it in a week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, and then, if it has been “good to go” that whole time, I recharge it after a month’s work 🙂 Of course, if it starts Feeling weakened before that, I will recharge it at that time

Suggestion to keep the charm clean with an elemental cleansing which you should do before every time you want to recharge it or you feel the object needs to be cleansed:

Place the object under running water and say three times: Water, please take all energy but mine, the spell on this ____ and what the object is made of.

Either take the object out into the sun or place it in a place where sunlight shines on it and say three times: Fire, take all energy but mine, the spell on this ____ and what the object is made of.

While outside or by an open window or in front of a fan or use a hand fan and say three times: Air take all energy but mine, the spell on this ____ and what the object is made of.

If you are outside place the object on the ground or if inside have some dirt or salt to sprinkle on the object and say three times: Earth, take all energy but mine, the spell on this ____ and what the object is made of.

If you are outside hold the object up in the air if possible and say three times: Spirit, I ask you to recharge the spell on this ____ and what the object is made of.

Copyright by Lady Carla Beltane 1995 All rights reserved. This post cannot be reblogged or copy and pasted or in any other way be reproduced for commercial purpose without express written permission from Lady Carla Beltane.

Common Practice and Beliefs within Druidry

Introduction

Those who practise Druidry do so through a deep spiritual connection perceived and experienced within the land and its culture. Many, when they first find Druidry, describe the feeling as ‘coming home’; they have rediscovered a connection with the land, its people, history, heritage and culture. This is more than mere interest; imbued with wonder, gratitude, respect and a sense of the perpetual flow of time, it inspires a devotional commitment, an acknowledgement of the sacred and a recognition of deity (male, female and non-gendered gods) within these currents of nature. This is the foundation of Druid practice.

The issue as to whether modern Druidry has any clear link back to pre-Roman Britain is debated. Historically Druidry was essentially an oral tradition and no texts are available written by our pre-Roman ancestors. However, the religious and spiritual traditions survived in folklore, through poetry and mythologies, within the development of British/western philosophy and the bardic colleges. A good deal was incorporated into Christianity when it came to these lands, particularly surviving in rural churches where Paganism continued side by side with the new religion. In the eighteenth century a resurgence of Druidry led to academic scrutiny of Classical and Mediaeval texts and a good deal of today’s common Druidic practice is based on interpretation of that material. This scrutiny continues today and Druids use this as a link to their ancestral past. As a religion today, Druidry is ever evolving. So common practice is gained through Druids coming together and sharing their experiences, rituals and celebrations.

Diversity

Many come to Druidry because of its diversity. Freedom of expression and personal connection to deity is, for them, of paramount importance. Connection to the divine is gained through experience, neither through belief nor through reciting prayers that are essentially another’s understanding or vision. As a polytheistic religion, individuals devote themselves to and revere deities who express different aspects of nature and ancestry. For example, Cerridwen is a goddess of the dark, the waning moon, the cauldron of potential; Brighid is a goddess of fire, light and assertive action. The rituals and practice of Druids honouring one or other of these as their principal deity would differ accordingly.

Druids take their inspiration from Nature. Within the British Isles we have a huge diversity of landscape and this is reflected in the practice of individuals and local groups or Groves. If a Druid is inspired by their local north sea coast, his gods and religious focus would be different from a Druid inspired by the rolling hills and woodlands of the Cotswolds, or the open moors of Devon. Similarly a Druid grove celebrating the festival of midwinter in an urban garden in Kent will look and feel very different from a grove celebrating in the Highlands of Scotland, were most of its members are dependent on rural or agricultural livelihoods: winter means something very different to both groves. All these individuals and groves are equally honouring (and seeking relationship with) Nature.

Druids are inspired too by their ancestors. To a Druid, ancestry is not a vague concept, but a gathering of individuals, each with their strengths and weaknesses, their own stories of success and failure. Druidry’s diversity is further expressed through the fact that each person has a different line of ancestors, and a different relationship with those people: this may manifest through a religious practice that focuses on a certain temple or landscape, myth or poet, skill or occupation. Again, such practice may appear significantly distinct, say, if we were to observe a farmer, a blacksmith, a writer or healer. As Druids, all are honouring their ancestors, nonetheless, by using the skills inherited and so expressing the spiritual devotion, gratitude and reverence required of the Druid.

The reverence for nature that is integral to Druidry also provides a morality or ethical base that is common to all Druids. Like any moral code, whether religious or secular, it is interpreted with slight differences. However, honour, respect, truth and justice are of primary importance and constitute the basis of all Druid practice. This doesn’t dilute Druidry, but brings to it a richness that is welcomed and celebrated. Thus, paradoxically, diversity is both a strength and a cohesive element of Druid practice.

There are further elements of Druid practice and ritual that are common to all within the tradition and these we shall explore.

Major Festivals

Most adherents of modern Druidry celebrate eight major festivals and these can be further subdivided into the Solar Festivals and Celtic Fire Festivals, which may also be known as agricultural, pastoral, seasonal or cross quarter festivals. Some Groves and individuals only work with the Solar and some only with the Fire Festivals. Placed around the course of the year, they occur every 5-7 weeks, and generally Druids will at this time make ritual, giving offerings.

The purpose of the festivals is to ensure two things:

  • The Druid is always spiritually awake to the cycles of nature, the seasons, the tides of growth and decay, together with the gifts the gods offer at these times.
  • The Druid attunes his own soul to the cycle of nature around him, working with the seasons internally, spiritually, instead of pushing against them and risking stress, depression, exhaustion, complacency and so on.

Being in harmony with nature’s cycles ensures spiritual health, appreciation, inspired creativity and vibrant community, through reverential relationship with the gods, ancestors and spirits of place.

Druids will also make ritual at various phases of the moon, though which phase is most important to any individual Druid will depend on their own nature. Some Druids will regularly meet with their grove at the dark or new moon, others preferring the full moon, and some acknowledge the quarter moons. This practice encourages and facilitates the Druid’s attunement with the lunar cycle, increasing awareness as to its impact on his own nature and the natural world around him, increasing health, well being and relationships.

Rites of Passage Click here to read the rest of this article

Witch Trials in the 21st Century

The most famous witch trial in history happened in Salem, Massachusetts, during the winter and spring of 1692-1693. When it was all over, 141 suspects, both men and women, were tried as witches. Nineteen were executed by hanging. One was pressed to death by heavy stones.

However, witch trials are not a thing of the past. Indeed, charges of witchcraft and trials of suspected witches are increasing.

Witchcraft

The word witchcraft has good and bad meanings in different cultures around the world. A general definition of witchcraft is the changing of everyday events using supernatural or magical forces.

Witchcraft is usually associated with the power of nature, such as medicinal and poisonous plants, or rains and floods. People accused of witchcraft are said to be able to control natural events such as storms or droughts.

So-called “witch doctors” use combinations of plants and animals, as well as spirituality or supernatural ability, to treat medical conditions. These “witch doctors” are not accused of being witches themselves—they heal illnesses and ailments blamed on witchcraft. “Witch doctor” is often a derogatory term for a traditional healer. Traditional healers, who rely on ancient remedies, are not witch doctors.

Unlike traditional healers, witch doctors use spells. Spells are words or phrases that are suspected of having magical powers. Casting a spell to be wealthy or lucky in love is an example of witchcraft.

Why do some people believe in witchcraft? Using the example of the love spell, some people may believe that Click here to read the rest of this article

Some Information About Spell/Charm Bags

The Proper Timing for Magick c. 2017

Author: Taliesin McKnight

Timing is one of the most important things to consider when doing magick. Astrology can be likened to a great cosmic clock. It reflects the cycles and rhythms of nature. The proper alignment of the stars, the sun, the moon, and the planets should all be taken into consideration. Does this sound complex? I assure you it is not as complicated as it may sound. In fact, this may reduced to two things: the days of the week and the cycles of the moon.

The seven planets rule the seven days of the week. The names even derive from the planets in many different languages. In English these come from the names of the Norse planetary deities. Sunday is the day of the Sun; Monday is the day of the moon; Tuesday is the day of Tue (Mars) ; Wednesday is the day of Wodan (Mercury) ; Thursday is the day of Thor (Jupiter) ; Friday is the day of Freya (Venus) ; and Saturday is the day of Saturn. Therefore, for maximum astrological benefit, a love spell should be done on Friday, the day of Venus (planet ruling love) . In the same way, magick involving education may be done on Wednesday, which is ruled by Mercury. The planetary correspondences are as follows:

The Sun rules Sunday and is good for Success, luck, spirituality, knowledge, and healing. The moon rules on Mondays. This is a good time to do spells for intuition, dreams, astral travel, and communication with spirits. Mars rules on Tuesdays. It is a good time for effective magick involving battle, conflicts, protection, strength, overcoming adversity, and binding.

Mercury is the planet presiding over Wednesdays. This is a time for rituals for education, knowledge, divination, communication, and healing. Thursday is the day of Jupiter, and governs success, prosperity, luck, and leadership. Venus dominated on Fridays and can bring love, romance, heal relationships, and grant new friends. Saturday is governed by the baleful influence of Saturn. This planet grants protection, destruction, binding, curses, purification, and overcoming weakness.

In addition to the seven days of the week, the seven planets also rule the hours in the day. There are several different methods to calculating the planetary hours. One of these involves following the hours from sunrise to sunrise; another divides the hours between sunrise and sunset and divides them into 12 sections and the same is done for the period between sunsets. To avoid all the math and difficulty, a very simple and effective system omits this and simply uses the 24 hours from midnight to midnight. This has worked wonderfully for me and I see no reason to list the other methods. If you would like to examine other methods for calculating planetary hours, that information is readily available online or in other books on magick. For simplicity, just know that the planet for the day also rules the hour at 6 am, 1 pm, and 8 pm.

Now, to illustrate this, let us take an example. If you wanted to do a love spell, it would be a good idea to do this on Friday (the day of Venus) at 8 pm (the hour of Venus) . This acts as a magickal doorway in which the proper astrological conditions are right. In this way the magus moves with the cycles and the rhythms of nature. If one were to bind (or restrict) someone from causing harm to others, Saturday at 6 am would be a good time. The days and hours should be at least partially memorized. The easiest way to do this is to simply memorize which planets rule each day and to simply remember that the planet for that day also rules at 6 am, 1 pm, and 8 pm. In this way, it will not be necessary to look this up every time one wishes to do a spell!

The phases of the moon also have an important impact on the effectiveness of magick. The waxing (growing) phase and the full moon are good from creative magick and bringing things into your life; the waning (decreasing) phase and the new moon are used for destructive spells and getting rid of things in your life. This is the most stressed point in ritual timing in the Wiccan tradition.

The concept of moving with the phases of the moon is very ancient and is found in many different cultures. This can be seen as a more important element in timing than anything else. It is much better to go with the phases of the moon on the wrong day than to do it on the right day of the week and the wrong lunar phase. This aspect of magickal timing should not be over-looked. The full and new moons are peaks of the creative and destructive cycles. The mid-way points (the half moons during increase and decrease) are also times of great magickal power.

The last aspect of ritual timing is the moon sign. The moon passes through the 12 signs of the zodiac, remaining in each sign only for a few days. This is not as important a consideration as the other 2 timing concerns. Nonetheless, this can lend power to rituals and spells. When the moon is in an Earth sign (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) are good for financial concerns; when the sign is in an Air sign (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) are ideal for education and spells consistent with the characteristics of the element of Air. When the sign is in a Water sign (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) it is a great time for spells that are connected to the Element of water and to emotions, artistry, and relationships; While the moon is in a Fire sign (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) it is a good time to do rituals of a fiery nature.

The individual characteristics of the sign (rather than just the element) should also be considered. This is not a very important aspect to magickal timing, so don’t stress too much over it. As I said before, though, utilizing this can only help and never hinder!

There are other lesser aspects to astrological timing. These would include the weather and the current Sun sign. The reason Sun signs are rarely considered is not so much that it is a weak influence, but rather that it is not practical to wait months just to do a spell, when it will probably no longer even be needed or be too late. This could also be a great aid if followed.

Weather is an issue as well. Storms are usually great for magick because it is a time of great elemental power. Furthermore, if one is doing a ritual involving the Sun, this should be done during the day and when it is sunny. One would assume this would go without saying. On the contrary, however, many people fail to recognize this simple concept. After all, it is only common sense. Thus, weather and the Sun sign can lend a lot of extra power to spells, if you would only harness that power with the use of correct ritual timing.

Now that this has all been laid down and explained, let us take another example to make sure these concepts are well understood. Let us say that someone is looking for a new job and decides to do some magick to help the job search. The moon should be waxing (this is for bringing things into your life) and the spell may be done on a Thursday (the day of Jupiter) at 1 pm (the hour of Jupiter) on a cloudy day because Jupiter is a sky god. The moon should also be in the sign of Capricorn. This would be an extremely good time for such a spell. The conditions are perfect.

Does timing have to be followed? Of course not! In the preceding example, the job is probably needed immediately. It would be foolish to wait for the right conditions during such an emergency. Do spells whenever they are needed. However, WHEN IT IS CONVENIENT, the astrological conditions should be considered. If a spell can wait for the perfect conditions, then great. If they spell can wait a few days for the right day ruled by the proper planet, that is good too. But if the spell can’t wait that long, then do it now. The spell can be repeated when the stars, sun, and moon are aligned right if needed. The spell will still work. The point is lending extra power to your spells. That’s it.

Following the cycles and rhythms of nature is also another way of aligning oneself with the universe. In the ancient Mystery Traditions, from which magick derives, Man was seen as a reflection of the cosmos. One is moving in accordance with the universe. We are moving with the tides of nature. Can magick be done against these cycles and still be effective? Sure. But it is like swimming against a current. Why not “ride with the tide”? It may even carry you a ways if you would only let go and let the currents of the Great Mother take you. Thus, in magick we try to follow the ways of Nature. Magick is merely using Her ways.

Remember, that which separates the initiate from the vulgar is simply that the occultist is aware of the laws of the universe and uses them to his or her advantage while others do not use this power that lies in their hands.

A Talisman or an Amulet… What’s the Difference? (Explained)

Since ancient times, a man has placed faith in the magical power of talismans and amulets, various objects capable of defending their owner from spells and negative influences of all kinds. Not many know that the two terms are not synonymous but are actually very different.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Talismans and amulets are both objects with distinct purposes.

Talismans are intentionally created objects, often jewelry, designed to attract positive energies or outcomes, such as luck or love. They are charged with specific intentions.

Amulets, on the other hand, are objects, like pendants or charms, primarily used for protection against negative energies or harm.

They are not typically charged with intentions but are chosen for their inherent protective qualities or symbolism.

Contents

What is the difference between a talisman and an amulet?

What is a talisman?

What is an amulet?

Source: Magickal Spot by Tina Caro