Category: Our History

Remember These Things

Posted by Mistress of the Myst

Remember These Things

 

⦁ A Witch knows the nature and ways of her time.

⦁ A Witch knows what she knows, and should make no other claims.

⦁ A Witch seeks to harm none, but faced with the necessary choice between two ills, she will seek the lesser.

⦁ A Witch places wisdom first in life rather than love, for love without wisdom is hurtfull, but always temper wisdom with love.

⦁ A Witch knows to seek not more than she needs and she shall ever have enough and even abound.

⦁ A Witch seeks to know two things, and these are: what she is, and what deity is, and if she comes to know the anser to either of these, she will know the other.

⦁ A Witch turns no one away seeking the ancient knowledge.

⦁ A Witch knows that she is one with all things and all things are one with her.

⦁ A Witch strives to overcome fear, of man, death, and other entities/things.

⦁ A Witch knows that all things work best when they are positive to all concerned. She also realizes the duality, for the negarive is also part of the oneness. So seek balance – not stasis. You cannot build upon that which you refuse to recognize.

⦁ A Witch knows that there is an element of laughter in all things, no matter how negative they seem. Seek this out, for it is your protection against deviation of mind and will. It can neutralize and make clear the answer you need.

Let’s Talk Witch – The Creation Story

Posted by Mistress of the Myst

Let’s Talk Witch – The Creation Story

 

Long, long ago, the world slept in the arms of a dark void. From this place of nothingness, Spirit drew together and created Our Lady of Infinite Love. She danced among the heavens Her feet beating out the rhythm of all creation. Sparks of light flew from her hair, giving birth to the stars and planets. As She twirled, these heavenly bodies moved with Her in the divine symphony of the Universe. When Her dancing quickened, She formed the seas and mountains. She chanted words of love and joy, as these sounds fell to Earth the flowers and trees were born. From the pure, white light of Her breath came the colours of the universe, turning all things to vibrant beauty. From Her bubbling laughter came the sounds of the pristine running water of the streams, the gentle lapping waters of the lakes, and the roaring screams of the oceans. Her tears of joy became rains of survival.

When Her dancing slowed and She sought a companion with whom to share the wonders of the world, Spirit created The Lord as Her lifemate and companion. Because The Lady so loved the Earth, Spirit made Her companion half spirit, half animal so that together the Lord and Lady could populate the Earth. The Lord’s power moves through her and She showers the Earth and all upon it with Her blessings. Together the Lord and Lady gave birth to all the birds, animals, fishes, and people of our world. To protect and guide the humans, the Lord and Lady created the power spirits. These energies walk with us always, though we often cannot see them. Their speech creates positive energy, from which we draw strength. To each bird the Lady gave a magic song, and to each animal the Lord bestowed instincts to survive. The Lord is the master of the animal and vegetable kingdoms, and therefore wears the antlers of a stag upon His great head. This half-man, half-animal aspect shows His great joy in both the human and animal creations of the Spirit.

As the humans began to grow and prosper, the Lord and Lady saw the need for healers among them. And so they drew forth energy from the realm of angels and from the realm of power animals and from the human realm to create the Witches. The Witches brought with them the wisdom of the Lord and Lady, the ability to heal, and the art of magic. The Lady taught the Witches how to cast a magic circle and talk to the Spirit, the Lord taught them how to communicate with the energies of water, fire, air and earth and commune with the animal and plant kingdoms.

At first, the humans accepted the Witches and treated them fairly; but because the Witches were different, humans began to fear the Wise Ones of the Lord and Lady, thus the Witches became the Hidden Children, conducting their rites of positive energy in secret lest they risk capture and death at the hands of uneducated humans.

As the world grew darker with ignorance and hate of human creation, the Lady took the body of the Moon to represent the gentle light of Her perfect peace, and the Lord took the vibrant rays of the Sun as His symbol of strength in perfect love. And once a month, when the Moon is full, the Witches celebrate and remember the blessings our Mother has bestowed upon us. We call forth Her energy to help us take care of ourselves, our families, our planet, and our friends. Four times a year the Witches celebrate the festivals of fire and honour the Lord and His love for us – these are called the cross-quarters. At the four quarters of the seasons, the Witches honour the cycle of life and the gifts of the Earth with festivals to both the Lord and Lady-signifying the balance they have brought us- the Equinoxes and Solstices.

The Lady has many names- Isis, Astarte, Bride, Diana, Aradia, Hecate- and the Lady walks within and beside each woman. The Lord has many faces, from the strong Cernunnos to the delightful Pan. He guards and guides us and resides within and beside each man. When thunder roars in the heavens, and lightning crack from the ground, the Lord and Lady dance the divine myth of creation so that we may remember them and know that we are never alone. When the Sun rises each morning, we bask in the joy of His love for us, and when the Moon moves through her phases, we understand the cycle of birth, growth, death and rebirth.

When it is our time, the Witches enter the Summerland, From the Spirit that moves and flows through the Lord and Lady we continue to learn the mysticism of the Universe so that we may return, life after life, to serve our brothers and sisters. In each lifetime, Spirit guides us through learning experiences, preparing us along the way for our individual missions. Sometimes we are born among our own kind, and in other instances we must seek out our spiritual family. Many of us do not remember our chosen path until we reach adulthood, but others know instinctively of their heritage from the time they form their own thoughts.

We are the Witches, the representation of the growth of wisdom on our planet. We are the Hidden Children, back from the dead. We are the people, the power, the change, and we have incarnated in every race and culture and continue to do so. We are the divine angels of Earth.

So mote it be

 

 

~Silver RavenWolf~

The best creation story we have ever come across is in Silver Ravenwolf’s book: Solitary Witch: the Ultimate Book of Shadows for the New Generation.

The Ten Commandments (of the Goddess)

Posted by Mistress of the Myst

green wiccan

The Ten Commandments (of the Goddess)

 

1. You shall adore (worship) my Spirit.

2. Your Adoration should be once a month and best when the Moon is full.

3. You shall gather in a secret place.

4. You shall worship naked before me.

5. You shall sing in the joy my freedom brings to thee.

6. You shall feast sharing the bounty of the earth I pour out unto thee.

7. You shall dance my dance of divine ecstacy.

8. Play music in Honor of She who is Queen of the Wise.

9. Make Love that thy Bonds with one another become sacred.

10. Place no sacrifice of any living creature upon my Altar for I am the Mother of All Things Living.

 

—H.P. Jacobus, Author
Published on Lady Bridget’s Wiccan Ways

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Let’s Talk Witch – Characteristics of a True Witch

Land OF the Druids

Let’s Talk Witch – Characteristics of a True Witch

In general, “witch” is a term that refers to a female sorcerer or wizard.  However, a sorcerer or a wizard is usually a male who is inclined to be manipulative in his craft.  A witch, on the other hand, is a deeply religious individual who is usually pure in heart and practices witchcraft through combining meditation and spiritual elements.  In addition, a witch is a gifted individual who may seem to have supernatural abilities.  A witch displays compassion and practices witchcraft without any hidden motives.  More often than not, a witch works for others who are suffering and in pain, bringing them relief and comfort.

Generally, a witch is often misunderstood as an evil individual and maligned for bringing unfortunate circumstances to another person.  However, in today’s society, witches along with their beliefs and practices have regained their lost ground and earned the respect of the society.  The term witch is now being brought back to its old name, Wicca.

There are several characteristics of a true witch.  By true, it means a witch whose beliefs and practices correspond with theWiccan Rede, “As it harm none, do as thou wilt.”  For instance, a witch employs witchcraft for healing, especially of unexplained health problems.

Normally, a witch uses her personal abilities or powers combined with energies from candles, herbs, stones, and other natural materials.  A witch employs witchcraft to ameliorate mankind as well as the world.  A witch does not hurt people and more importantly, she does not worship the devil.

A witch derives her strength primarily from nature including earth, water, air, and fire.  She believes that water is able to purify; fire is able to cleanse and transport an individual into the spiritual world; and air enshrouds an individual and lifts them to the freedom of the skies and divine immenseness.  A witch believes that the air unites with her spirit, allowing it to float in the sky freely.  A witch reaches an uplifted state through perseverance and meditation.  In some cases, a witch is born with special talents that allow her to achieve an uplifted state more easily than other individuals.

In reality, a witch is not a wicked being or an ugly hag as depicted in most books, movies, and other forms of media.  She is just an ordinary looking person who can be your next-door neighbor.  She can be a hardworking housewife who attends to the needs of her family and does daily chores.

A witch also has emotions although she can function at a larger level rather than personal.  For instance, if she is sad, it can be caused by the world’s suffering and not just because of a personal matter.

A female witch is different from an ordinary woman in the sense that the former can connect with her goddess.  This connection is intended for her soul to achieve a state of oneness.

A witch carries out her craft by utilizing a number of rituals alone or with a coven.  More often than not, rituals are done in an altar room filled with the smell of incense while candles are lit, and chants or incantations are spoken.  Witchcraft rituals usually involve meditating while staring into the candle flames.  Once a witch enters into a trance, she dances with the power of the fire coming from the candles.  Consequently, she sees images in her head that become a permanent part of her psyche.

A true witch does not do anything to utilize witchcraft to damage a living or non-living thing. Given that a witch believes that retaliation can be a lot worse than her act.  A true witch believes that whatever you do, regardless if it is good or bad, will come back to you threefold.

Although it can be difficult to determine if someone you know or someone who lives just next door is a witch, some witches wear a Pentacle or pentagram, which looks like a five-pointed star.  A pentagram is a symbol that represents the five elements of nature.  It does not represent the worship of anything but nature.

Witchcraft: A Beginner’s Guide To Wiccan Ways: Symbols, Witch Craft, Love Potions Magick, Spell, Rituals, Power, Wicca, Witchcraft, Simple, Belief, Secrets,The … For Beginners To Learn Witchcraft Book 2)
Sebastian Collins

Let’s Talk Witch – Basics of Love Magic

Goth

Let’s Talk Witch – Basics of Love Magic

In some circles of the Pagan community, magical workings pertaining to love are frowned upon. The rationale is that to do any magic related to love is to interfere with the free will of someone else. However, there are many traditions that believe love magic is perfectly acceptable to perform, either generally (as in, “bring love my way”) or specifically (as in, “Brad is gonna fall head over heels in love with me”). If you’re of the opinion that love-oriented workings fall within your scope of ethics, here’s some information on traditional love magic.

Love Poppets

In some forms of European folk magic, there are a number of ways to bring love your way. One of the most well-known (and easiest) is through the use of a poppet, or magical doll. You can approach this in a couple of different ways:

Create a poppet that represents yourself, and use it to draw love to you
Create a poppet that represents the object of your affection, if your tradition permits you to do so, and use it to compel the person to see you as someone worthy of love
Create a poppet for yourself and a poppet for the person you wish to be with, and do a working that brings the two of them together

Remember, if your beliefs prohibit you from doing love magic on other people, the first option may be the best one for you.

 

by Patti Wigington
Published on ThoughtCo

Circle and Circle Structure

Circle and Circle Structure

 

A circle is a safe, sacred space that we create. It is “between” the worlds, the magickal and the mundane worlds. It marks a “place that is not a place, in a time that is not a time”. What we mean by this is that it is sort of a nexus, a place that can touch and reach all other places and people in time and space.

 

How does this happen? By intent and the will of the person or people who “cast” the circle. This vision is created so strongly on the astral plane that we can manifest it in the physical plane, and it creates a boundary past which energy will not pass, unless you send it out. The circle is used as a container, to hold the magickal energy that you raise (also called the “cone of power”) until you are ready to send it out for a purpose. Ceremonial magicians will also use a circle at times for protection, to keep unwanted energies or spirits out. I use a circle more for containment rather than protection, but the protective element is good to have there anyway.

 

There are many reasons to have a circle, but they pretty much boil down to one of three:

To work
To worship
To play

 

Work would be magick, healing, self inner work such as meditation, or whatever you are doing that has a specific purpose, and these circles would mainly be done at the times of the Full Moons, New Moons, or Dark Moons, and are called Esbats.

 

Worship can be done at Esbats as well, but is always done for the Sabbats which are the Wiccan Holidays, and there are eight: (see the Sabbats Menu for more detail on these) the four greater Sabbats and the four lesser Sabbats. We believe in our tradition that we should avoid doing magick for personal gain at the Sabbats, but that magick for greater spriritual growth, and growth in our lives, or for healing the earth is all right. On these eight days, we give back to the Gods thanks for the blessings that we receive.

 

And to play, well, those circles are mainly for fun, or learning, and can be done at any time. They are also called Esbats, and can be done anytime and anywhere you like. Wicca is a religion that allows for play, indeed ritual is mostly to have younger self come out and play and be active.

 

So now you may want to know how to actually cast a circle for yourself. Well, there are dozens of books on the subject, all giving you different directions for the four elements, and all giving you different words to say, etc. I have to tell you that the directions of the elements and the words used to cast the circle don’t really matter – what matters is what goes on inside of you!

 

What should be going on in YOUR head is a strong visualization of what you are doing, not worrying about if you have gotten the words correct or not. Words do not cast a circle, strong intent does!

 

Before I begin to give instructions on this, I have to emphasize that each group that I have circled with does things their own way. No one way is always right. I will be telling you what MY tradition follows, without giving away anything that I have vowed to keep secret, and offer you some ideas for words that you can use. Please do not email me to tell me that I am doing it wrong! Each tradition has it’s own way, and if there is another way that works better for you then by all means, use it. This way works beautifully for myself and the people that I work with, and I am simply sharing it with you. This is NOT written in STONE! Please use only what works for you.

 

You should always cleanse yourself and your ritual area before beginning any ritual. To cleanse yourself, take a ritual bath. To cleanse your ritual space, you will take a besom (or broom) and astrally “sweep” the space clean of any unwanted energy. This is especially important if you are using a room that is otherwise used by the family, such as your livingroom, or bedroom, or office. Start at the back of the room, and going widdershins (or counter-clockwise) and visualize and clouds or muddinesss in the atmosphere being swept away, take it all around the room, to the door, and sweep it all the way out the front doorway. If there is a lot of negative energy in the area you need to use, then go around first with sage, burning it strongly and smudging the area well prior to using the besom.

 

There is a chant that our group uses for doing this:

“Tout, tout, tout
Within and without
All negativity
Get out, out, out.”

 

Another verse I have heard used for this purpose is a bit longer:

“Besom, besom, long and lithe,
Made from ash and willow withe,
Tied with thongs of willow bark
In running stream at moonest dark,
With the pentagram indited as the ritual fire is lighted.
Sweep the circle deosil,
Sweep out evil, sweep out ill.
Make the round of the ground where we do the Lady’s will.”

 

“Besom, Besom, Witches broom,
Sweep out Spirits, sweep out doom.
Rid the Lady’s Hallowed ground of demons, imps, and hell’s red hounds.
Then stand thee down on her green earth,
By running stream, or Mistress’ hearth
Till called upon for Sabbat’s rite,
To cleanse once more the dancing site
To guard us all from evil might.”

 

I suggest using something simple, along the lines of the first one, for Esbats, and if you have others present, or are doing a more elaborate Sabbat ritual, you might want to use the first, or both, verses of the second invocation. (I do not know the author of the second set of verses, and if you do know I would appreciate an email so that I can give proper credit to the author. Please use the email link on the home page.)

 

Next you can set up your altar area, being sure to double check that you have everything you plan to use in the ritual. It interrupts the energy flow if you suddenly find you forgot something. Don’t worry, it won’t “ruin” it, it is simply better if you have everything at hand.

 

Think of ritual work as if you were cooking from a recipe. You read over the recipe first to see if it sounds good to you, then you check your cupboards to make sure you have all the ingredients before you start. Ritual is the same way! Read it over first to be sure it sounds good to you, then assemble all the “ingredients” so that you know you have everything the “recipe for ritual” calls for.

 

One other note here, the steps above are not necessarily done in that order. For example, often I will get the altar and all the tools ready first. Then I will take my ritual bath, then cleanse and besom the area. Sometimes I assemble the tools, then cleanse the area with my besom, then to relax and get in a completely magickal frame of mind, I will take my bath last. The order, in other words, doesn’t matter. Do it however it feels right. If you use the same room over and over again for ritual, and it rarely gets used for any other purpose (like a spare bedroom), then you can forgo doing the besoming every time. The room will remain cleansed and charged from all the rituals done in it. You may want to besom the room again after someone else has been in the room, though. If you show it to friends, or if you do end up having to use it for when company sleeps over. Take a moment to stop and FEEL what the space feels like. You can tell if it needs to be cleansed or if it is fine. Use your own judgement – that is how you will develop your knowledge of these things. If it feels fine to you, then it probably is. If you are unsure, then besom it anyway.

 

Now you are ready to begin.

 

The circle is usually cast three times, once with the staff or the athame, then again with the salt and water, then a third time around with incense in the censor. Start in the east and walk slowly, deosil (clockwise or sunwise) around the circle, and say something like:

 

“I cast this circle in power and strength
To be a place between the worlds
For all who worship the Old Gods.”

 

Then next you will go around with the salt and water, completely around the circle and you can say the same thing again, or something different, like:

 

“I cast this circle with water and salt,
That it shall be cleansed and purified.”

 

Then lastly you will go around with the incense in the censor (you CAN use a potholder if this thing gets hot – just consecrate the potholder also!) and say something like:

 

“I cast this circle with air and fire,
That it shall be cleansed and purified.”

 

While you are doing this, it is most important for you to SEE in your mind’s eye the power or energy flowing out from your staff or your athame, and creating a blue or blue-white “flame” or barrier, which is the boundary of the circle. You will see this boundary being created each time you go around and cast the circle. And remember, that this circle is not a flat two-dimensional circle on the floor, but a complete globe that encircles the entire room, both below your feet and also over your head. Make sure that your visualization is complete in that respect. And remember, practice makes perfect.

 

Casting the circle is the beginning of the ritual, and so by definition has more power the more often you do it the same way. If you are working alone, this is no problem, you just find a way that you like to do it, and memorize that way. Do it the same way every time, and soon you will feel the words and the power flowing out without any trouble at all. When you decide to work with a group, however, you will all need to be casting the same way, so that all can participate in your “vision” and help create sacred space. So, whatever way you decide to do this as a solitary practitioner, don’t get so “set” in your ways that you can’t change or adapt later if you happen to find a group you want to work with.

 

Now that you have cast the circle, you will want to purify yourself. The space has been purified by your actions, (and you may have swept the space astrally beforehand with your besom or broom as well.) Some groups do this after they call the elements, some do it before. Either way, it is done BEFORE you would invite in the Lord and Lady.

 

To bless and purify yourself and the other participants, you can use oil mixed with salt water, and mark a pentagram on your forehead and ask:

“May the blessings of the Lord and Lady be upon you.”

 

Or you can say other words that are appropriate to the rite you plan to do. Either way, this is a simple blessing, which is sealed with a kiss, say “Blessed Be” and hug. Our group does a much more formal and head to toe blessing in which we annoint each other starting at the head, and bless each part of the body for the purpose it was created, and then also end with a “Blessed Be” and a hug. In most groups with both sexes, the men bless the women and vice versa. If this isn’t possible, it’s ok to have the same sexes bless each other. The power and magick in Wicca is traditionally passed on from one sex to the other and uses the power of the sexual tension thereby created, however, as in everything else, different groups will have their own way of doing things, and this is also fine.

 

After the Ablutions (the blessing of the participants), then you can call in the elements, or rather, we call in the Guardians of the elements. You see, the elements, or elementals, in their natural state, can be difficult to control by a novice, or even a long time initiate at times. So for our own safety, we call upon the Guardians of the Watchtowers of each direction to which we have assigned an element in our tradition. So, for example, we would call (starting in the east) the “Guardian of the Watchtower of the East, the power of Water.” (Our tradition differs with many published books regarding the placement of the elements in the directions, but there is no ONE right way to do this!) We will also list some of the attributes we wish to share, or say a few words regarding the rite or the magick we are about to do. We ask that they come at our command, and we end with “So mote it be”, a phrase which means “so it must be.”

 

Go around to each of the directions in the circle, the east, south, west and lastly north, and call upon the Guardian of the element you have assigned to that direction, according to the system you have decided to use. When you have finished, return to the center of the circle, or to the place where you have set up your altar.

 

Calling for the presence of the Lord and Lady is different than the elements. We “command” the elements to come, but we invite the Lady and the Lord, or the Goddess and God. They are actually always with us, within us, and so we are actually evoking from inside of ourselves their presence so that we can feel them manifesting in the circle. This can be a very powerful and strong feeling, and the more strongly you can evoke these energies, I believe the faster your spiritual growth can progress. To invite the Gods and Goddesses, we will sometimes use poetry, sometimes read something beautiful and reverent or just close our eyes and say the words from our hearts. The last method is the one I prefer for private worship and for my group’s inner circles, but for Sabbats I will often use poetry or read something. That way all who attend can participate and call upon the Lord and Lady also in their own ways, privately.

 

Now that the God and Goddess are present, this is the time that you would do the work, or the purpose for which the circle was intended. Magick, healing, psychic readings, private meditations, inner work with the Goddess, creating something, channeling poetry or songs; whatever your purpose for the circle will be done at this time. You are only limited by your own imagination!

 

After the work is finished, you will need to ground and center, to start to bring yourself out of the “altered state” of the circle and back into the mundane state of regular day to day living. This is best accomplished by sharing what is commonly called “Cakes and Ale” or “Cakes and Wine”. This is where you will bless and consecrate the wine (or beverage) and the cakes (or food) that you are going to eat and share with all the participants. Before you eat, however, many use this time to perform the Great Rite symbolically.

 

The Great Rite is the union of female and male that is sacred to all life, and is the basis for all life. This is done symbolically in the circle by using the symbols of the athame to represent the male, and the chalice to represent the female. Wine (or some beverage) is poured into the chalice, then both are held up for all to see, with the two people preforming this rite (usually the High Priestess and the High Priest) facing each other in front of the altar. The athame is plunged into the chalice, but gently, and this symbolizes the sacred union. There are many, many different words that can be said at this point, and most will be along these lines:

 

“As the athame is to the male
So the chalice is to the female
And joined together, they are one
For the greatest magick is Love.”

 

After this is done, the cakes are also blessed, and the wine and cakes are passed out to all participants. Many people will say as they pass them out “May you never hunger” or “May you never thirst” which comes from the book by Robert Heinlein called “Stranger in a Strange Land”. These are used by many groups, and are wonderful for the message they convey. Other groups may simply say “Blessed Be”. Use what you prefer, or create your own special blessing. This is also a time for sharing, and bonding, for telling stories, for laughter, and for answering any questions that might arise. Don’t be fooled into cutting this time short, this is an important part of the ritual too, and should be enjoyed to the fullest.

 

Now that the work is finished, you are properly on your way to being grounded, it is time to thank the Lord and Lady and give them leave to depart. This is done respectfully, and often with a wish that they aid us and guide us in the work we are doing, or in the coming season.

 

Remember we don’t command them, we simply invite them.

 

To dismiss the Watchtowers is next before the circle can be opened and completed, and this is done in the same manner as they were previously called. Some groups will start in the North and go widdershins (counterclockwise) to do this, and some groups will still start in the east and end in the east as they did for casting the circle. Use either way, whatever feels right and comfortable for you. Please do be sure, however, to thank the elements and to send them safely on their way. Failure to do that can sometimes result in “accidents” happening for a few days around the house, depending on how well you called them in. Our group also adds a “harm ye none on your way” to the end of our dismissal, and end this with “So Mote it Be”.

 

To dissipate the energy of the circle, to take it down, or open it, is to visualize the energy that you put down, either being expanded out and into the earth to be absorbed and used by the earth, or as being taken back into your tool (staff or athame) and being absorbed or stored there. Both are valid, and are used by different groups. We send the energy out to the outer edge of our “covenstead” to protect our members as they drive home, and then to dissipate naturally into the earth from whence we called it forth.

 

At this point, you have started in the east and ended in the east and taken up or opened the circle, and the rite is ended. Many people will use the traditional:

 

“The circle is open, but never broken,
Merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again!”

 

Which is also followed by a lot of hugging, and saying “Blessed Be” to each other, and in general making sure that everyone gets hugged. It’s also customary after Sabbats and sometimes Esbats to feast. This is because you should eat very lightly before a circle where you plan to do magickal working, or even fast for a time (not long, consult your doctor if you have any health concerns). And magick is hard work! Raising energy and sending off that cone of power is a lot of work, and a hearty appetite is usually to be expected after a long circle, so feast is pot-luck and self-serve most often.

 

Circle etiquitte is pretty elementary, and usually just plain common sense and consideration. Unfortunately, some people leave that at the door when they come to circle, or so it would seem. So here are a few do’s and don’t’s:

 

DO bring something to every circle you are invited to, such as a dish for feast, or some wine, or soda. Or ask the hostess what she would like you to bring.

 

DO stay and help clean up afterwards! Your host or hostess are not your servants, and they were kind enough to invite you into their home, be kind enough not to leave it messy. Pick up, and wash if necessary, dishes, or glassware you have used. If you borrowed a robe or a tool (such as a chalice or athame) make sure it gets properly put away where it belongs.

 

Show proper respect for other people’s belongings, especially their altars and tools. Touch nothing without permission.

 

DONT be late! If you are running late and it’s unavoidable, at least call to let them know you are late and just how late you think you will be. Many times I have waited rituals for people who had decided at the last minute they weren’t going to attend. If you do find that you can’t come and you had commited to coming, the courtesy of a phone call is always appreciated.

 

DONT bring guests without permission!

 

DONT put anything on the altar unless you ask first!

 

DO make sure you say Thank You to your hosts!

 

A word now about children… they are our future, and they should certainly be invited to attend outer court Esbats and Sabbats, when they are old enough to know what is going on and to behave accordingly! If you do bring your children to circles, please do not expect everyone else to keep an eye on them. They are your responsibility, and your problem. Before anyone gets put off by my attitude, please be aware that I am a mother, and a grandmother, and my children have always attended any circles that they were allowed and asked to attend. AND they behaved themselves. Children can either be the most wonderful addition to a circle, or the most disruptive. You as the parent have the obligation to see that they know what is going on beforehand and will be comfortable with it. If they are disruptive, and won’t behave, and are bothering other people, then please ask for a door to be cut in the circle and take them out, and go with them to supervise them. If the circle is not appropriate for children, and they are old enough to be left to their own devices for the time, maybe they could watch a movie that would be appropriate for them, or have some kind of activity planned for them.

 

Some groups with lots of young children take turns in supervising activities for them that are Wiccan related, while the other adults have their circle. I have also done circles exclusively for the children, and they have been some of the most fun too! In one we “pretended” we were each of the elements in turn and acted as we thought that element might act. In another, each child had a percussion type instrument, like maracas, cymbols, drums, etc, and we had our own “cone of power” through chanting nursery rhymes and drumming. These directed activities will be more meaningful for your child than a ritual aimed at adults, and are a wonderful way to introduce the “sacred circle” to them, before you expect them to be able to sit or stand still for any length of time. These work for very young children as well as for older ones.

 

In closing, I would just like to emphasize again, that these are the practices that our coven chooses, and in no way mean that you can’t do/see/feel something very different! The strength of Wicca, in my opinion, lies in it’s diversity, and in the ability of the practitioners to adapt to whatever circumstances they need and abilities they have. So use this information in whatever way is useful to you, and don’t use whatever doesn’t feel right to you. Most importantly to me, though, is that you ENJOY

Witch’s Charge

Witch’s Charge

Hear now the words of the witches,
The secrets we hid in the night,
When dark was our destiny’s pathway,
That now we bring forth into the light.

Mysterious Water and Fire,
The Earth and the far-reaching Air,
By hidden quintessence we know them,
And will keep silent and dare.
The birth and rebirth of all nature,
The passing of winter and spring,
We share with the life universal,
Rejoice in the magcial ring.

Four times in the year the Great Sabbat
Returns, and the witches are seen
At Lammas and Candlemas dancing,
On May Eve and old Hallowe’en.
And when day time and night time are equal,
When sun is at greatest and least,
The four lesser Sabbats are summoned,
Again witches gather in feast.

Thirteen silver moons in a year are,
Thirteen is the coven’s array.
Thirteen times at Esbat make merry,
For each golden year and a day.

The power was passed down the ages,
Each time between woman and man,
Each century unto the other,
Ere time and ages began.
When drawn is the magical circle,
By sword or athame of power,
It’s compass between the two worlds lies
In the land of shades that hour.
This world has no right to know it,
And the world beyond will tell naught.
The oldest of gods are invoked there,
The Great Work of Magic is wrought.

For two are the mystical pillars,
That stand at the gate of the shrine,
And two are the power of nature,
The forms and the forces of the divine.
The dark and the light in succession,
The opposites each unto each,
Shown forth as a God and a Goddess:
This did our ancestors teach.

By night he’s the wild wind’s rider,
The Horned One, the Lord of the Shades.
By day he’s the King of the Woodland,
The dweller in green forest glades.

The bright silver lady of midnight,
The crone who weaves spells in the dark.
She is youthful or old as she pleases,
She sails the torn clouds in her barque,

The master and mistress of magic,
They dwell in the deeps of the mind,
Immortal and ever renewing,
With power to free or to bind.

So drink the good wine to the Old Gods,
And dance and make love in their praise,
Till the Summerland shall receive us
In peace at the end of our days.
And Do What Thou Wilt
Shall be the challenge,
So be it in love that harms none,
For this is the only commandment,
By magic of old, be it done!

Eight words the Witches Creed fulfull:
It if Harms None, Do What Thou Will!

 

 

distrubuted in the public domain via the Internet by Seastrider

THE 13 WICCAN PRINCIPLES

SpellCaster
THE 13 WICCAN PRINCIPLES

1: We practice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the Moon and the seasonal Quarters and Cross Quarters.

 
2: We recognize that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility toward our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfillment and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.

 
3: We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than that apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary it is sometimes called supernatural, but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potential to all.

 
4: We conceive of the Creative Power in the universe as manifesting through polarity ~as masculine and feminine~ and that this same Creative Power lies in all people, and functions through the interaction of the masculine and feminine. We value neither above the other, knowing each to be supportive to each other. We value sex as pleasure, as the symbol and embodiment of life, and as one of the sources of energies used in magickal practice and religious worship.

 
5: We recognize both outer worlds and inner, or psychological, worlds sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the Collective Unconscious, Inner Planes, etc. ~and we see in the interaction of these two dimensions the basis for paranormal phenomena and magickal exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfillment.

 
6: We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy, but do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given of themselves in leadership.

 
7: We see religion, magick, and wisdom in living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it ~a world view and philosophy of life which we identify as Witchcraft~ The Wiccan Way.

 
8: Calling oneself “Witch” does not make a Witch, but neither does heredity itself, not the collecting of titles, degrees, and initiations. A Witch seeks to control the forces within her/himself that make life possible in order to live wisely and well without harm to others and in harmony with Nature.

 
9: We believe in the affirmation and fulfillment of life in a continuation of evolution and development of consciousness giving meaning to the Universe we know and our personal role within it.

 
10: Our only animosity towards Christianity, or towards any other religion or philosophy of life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be “the only way”, and have sought to deny freedom to others and to surpress other ways of religious practice and belief.

 
11: As American {Or World-Wide!} Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present and our future.

 
12: We do not accept the concept of absolute evil, nor do we worship any entity known as Satan or the Devil, as defined by the Christian tradition. We do not seek power through the sufferings of others, nor accept that personal benefit can be derived only by denial to another.

 
13: We believe that we should seek within Nature that which is contributory to our health and well-being.

Let’s Get Down To Brass Tacks, A Serious Talk About Witchcraft

You have heard all the old myths, tales and stereotypes about Witches. Now listen to the truth about Witches and Witchcraft. Lady of the Abyss give a very frank and open discussion about Witchcraft, from the beginning of time through the Burning Times up until modern day. Hear the stories and the truth that mainstream religion and Hollywood don’t want you to know. Also after Lady Abyss’ discussion, there are two reading from the Pagan author, Scott Cunningham from his Book of Shadows called “The Standing Stones.” Both of these readings are accepted as being part of our Craft. Mr. Cunningham is a well known and recognized authority on Wicca and Witchcraft. Between Lady Abyss and Scott Cunningham, you will have a clearer view of what Witches and the Craft are really about.

 

One of his readings, Words to the Wise & the other, The Nature of Our Ways both can be found in his book, “Wicca, A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner.”

 

WOTC PODCAST

WOTC Extra – Banishing Act

Wiccan

Banishing Act

 

For a simple banishing spell, write whatever you want to banish on a slip of paper, then light a small bonfire (outside) or use a fireproof dish (inside). Focus all your intent on ridding yourself of the to-be-banished thing, and say the following lowing as you place the paper in the fire: “Banish this as I desire! Banish now into the fire!” Then burn it to bits.

 
Everyday Witch A to Z: An Amusing, Inspiring & Informative Guide to the Wonderful World of Witchcraft

Deborah Blake

Let’s Talk Witch – Banishing

Wiccan
BANISHING

If you have ever said, “Oh, I wish I didn’t have ” (fill in the blank with whatever is appropriate: these extra ten pounds, this dreary depression, ten thousand dollars in debt), then what you need is a banishing spell. No, a banishing spell will not magickally get rid of the extra weight or the credit card debt you ran up-at least, not all by itself. What it will do is help you to start working on those things in a concrete fashion and set you on your path toward improving your life.

 

Banishing spells are best done during the dark or new moon, since that is a good time for decrease, rather than increase. And keep in mind that you can only use banishing magick to affect yourself-no trying to banish the noisy neighbors in 2B (although you could trying banishing ishing the annoyance you feel).

 

Banishing can be used for any issue where you feel you need help letting go of something. For instance, if you are having problems with your health, you can do an illness-banishing spell at the new moon, followed by a spell to increase health at the full moon. Two sides of the same coin, if you will. Here is an example of a spell I wrote for just that purpose:

 

Banish strife and banish pain
Bring balance to the world again
Pain and illness soon depart
Peace comes to the willing heart
With ease let go of ills and woes
Let health increase as this moon grows.

 

Remember that as with all other magick, you need to follow up with concrete actions in the real world. It is not enough to say “I am going to banish illness”-you then need to go out there and do whatever you can to back up the energy you put out into the universe through your magickal work. But sometimes when everyday actions on their own aren’t enough, a banishing spell can give you that extra magickal oomph to make your wishes come true.

 

Everyday Witch A to Z: An Amusing, Inspiring & Informative Guide to the Wonderful World of Witchcraft

Deborah Blake

Elementals that every witch should know

Flores bajo la lluvia

Elementals that every witch should know

Elementals are those mystical creatures that dwell within the spirit realm of the elements, watched over and controlled by the Lords of the Watchtowers (the Mighty Ones, Old Ones, or the Guardians). Elementals can be related to “nature spirits” and the old favorite, ever written about “witches’ familiar”. These are the spirits that govern all nature, the “forces of life” that may be summoned to assist in working magic. It’s important therefore that we understand “who they are” and “what they represent”. Earth spirits are known as Gnomes, Air spirits as Sylphs, Fire spirits as Salamanders, and Water spirits are called Undines.

 

After the circle is formed and consecrated with the elements, a witch may next call down the quarters by invoking the Lords of the Watchtowers (the Mighty Ones, Old Ones, the Guardians), to preside and watch over the proceedings. Specific elementals; those whose correspondences best suit the work or rite being carried out, may then be invited to participate. Their correspondences are closely related to those of the elements, so I shall not re-write them here (See Correspondences in Part 1). Care needs to be taken when calling the aid of elementals, due to the duplicity of all things. Elementals are not always the helpful little creature’s we expect them to be, and can be mischievous, bad tempered little devils if allowed to get out of control.

 

In folklore elementals were thought to be fickle, malicious and unpredictable spirits sent by the “wicked-witch” in the form of familiars to trick people into accidents and traps and sometimes killing them. This is the sort of belief that led to the plight of witches during the Witch-hunt’s and purges of the 17th–18th centuries. Still today in contemporary Witchcraft, witches use pets and animals as familiars, but stress and emphasizes is given to working with good and friendly elementals in producing positive magic. A colorful character from contemporary times that used a familiar was Sybil Leek. Her trademark was a cape, loose gown, and a pet jackdaw named “Mr. Hotfoot Jackson”.

 

Gnomes:

Gnomes are the spiritual beings who inhabit the spirit realm of the elements. As spirits of energy they are commonly invisible to the average person, only those that possess second sight can see them clearly. However being on the first level of the spirit realm, they are close enough to the physical realm in order to easily inter-react with it. By tradition Gnomes were the protectors of secret treasures hidden in caves beneath the earth. Legends have it that they were reluctant to help and aid humans, but if you were to gain the trust of one, they could prove to be powerful friends. On the other hand, if you were to lose their trust, deceive them or misuse their aid, then all hell could be let lose.

 

In Wicca/Witchcraft Gnomes are called to instill confidence, steadfastness and endurance, but can also be used to bring about gloom, melancholy and despair should that be required. In some old legends Gnomes were ruled over by a king called Gob whose followers became known as Goblins. Goblins were wondering mischievous sprites that would attach themselves to households, particularly those containing children. When they moved in, they would help by doing the chores at night and by playing with and disciplining the children, giving them presents when they were good or punishing them when they were bad.

 

When upset the Goblins general good nature could became unpredictable. They would bang pots and pans in the kitchen at night just to keep the household awake, or move furniture about while knocking on walls and doors and snatching bedclothes off sleeping persons, generally becoming a nuisance. You’ve heard of poltergeist activity? Well this is a type of it. A Poltergeist is generally believed to be the spirit of a departed person or animal, who hasn’t for various reasons withdrawn from the physical realm. It can also be an elemental that has been called for a task and for some reason failed to complete it, hence the haunting. Witches are often called to exorcise haunting by contacting the spirit and persuading it to move on, or if that fails they can contact higher spirits or deities to banish them.

 

Gnomes and Goblins can be called to aid all magic associated with the element Earth as given in the correspondences above.

 

Sylphs:

Sylphs are the spiritual beings that inhabit the spirit realm of the element Air. Their activities are manifest in the gatherings of clouds, in the blowing of the wind, the downpour of rain and the formation of snow. They are also responsible for the growth and maturity of all the plant life we see around us. In folklore, Sylphs appeared in many myths and legends. Some tales tell us that if you listened carefully, they would talk to you on the wind as it passed through caves and caverns.

 

Its been suggested that the Muses of Greek mythology were Sylphs who had assumed human form in order to guide humans on a spiritual path. They are associated with the activity of the mind and can influence and inspire human actions. It is generally though that they are attracted to poets and artists and instills them with visions of spiritual beauty. Sylphs are ruled by a King being known as Paralda, and in form they appear to humans as in the classic image of the fairies.

 

Sylphs can be called to aid in all magick associated with the element Air as shown in the correspondences above.

 

Salamanders:

Salamanders are the spiritual beings that inhabit and control the element Fire, and it is through their activities that fire exists. There are many family branches of salamanders each differing in size, appearance and dignity, and in folklore they were ruled over by a magnificent flaming king being called Djin. Salamanders are the strongest and most powerful of all the elementals having the ability to extend or diminish their size as needed. They and others of their kind are mischievous spirits, who like children don’t fully understand the results of their actions, which can affect the thoughts and actions of people around them. As such, strong control is required when using their aid in ritual or magick.

 

Salamanders are thought to move about most freely at night and if you are ever lucky enough to see them, they would appear as small balls of light drifting across the air and water. Old-time sailors often saw them investigating the sails of their ships while sailing at sea, and the term “St. Elmo’s Fire” was coined to refer to such phenomenon. On land they are mostly perceived as small lizard-like flames about a foot or more in length.

 

When used in magick, Salamanders can have a profound effect upon human nature. Linked through the heat with which we maintain are bodily temperatures, they can influence our emotions and general temperament. When someone is called a hothead, or is referred to as hot-blooded, these are terms referring to their elemental nature.

 

Undines:

Undines are the spiritual beings that inhabit the spirit realm of the element Water. They not only exist in the water itself, but also in substances of humidity and all other liquids. They appear to humans as beautiful water nymphs or the classic mermaids of myths and legends which tell of them being seen gracefully riding the waves of the ocean shimmering and shining with all the colors of the sea. They are also said to frequent marshlands, rocky pools, springs, streams and wells. They control the forces of nature in relation to plant and marine life as well as the tides and motions of water.

 

In some cultures undines inhabited waterfalls, while others live in rivers and lakes, every fountain had its nymph, and every ocean its oceanides (daughters of Oceanus the Titan ruler of the sea before Poseidon). In folklore the ruler of the undines is a being called Necksa whom they love, serve, and honor unceasingly. Undines are emotional beings, very friendly and open to being of service to humans, but care must be taken when working with undines for they can have a strong influence upon a person’s emotional well-being.

 

The smaller undines were often portrayed as tiny winged beings that people have mistakenly called fairies. Seen near flowers and plants that grow in watery areas, they had gossamer wings and shining clothing. Some undine’s closely resembled people in appearance and size, they lived in coral caves under the ocean or on the shores of lakes and banks of rivers. Undines work with the vital essences, the liquids of plants, animals, and human beings and are present in everything containing water.

 

Undines can be called to aid in all magick associated with the element Water as shown in the correspondences above.

 

 

Controverscial.Com

 

Elementals that every witch should know

Merry met Elementals that every witch should know

Elementals are those mystical creatures that dwell within the spirit realm of the elements, watched over and controlled by the Lords of the Watchtowers (the Mighty Ones, Old Ones, or the Guardians). Elementals can be related to “nature spirits” and the old favorite, ever written about “witches’ familiar”. These are the spirits that govern all nature, the “forces of life” that may be summoned to assist in working magic. It’s important therefore that we understand “who they are” and “what they represent”. Earth spirits are known as Gnomes, Air spirits as Sylphs, Fire spirits as Salamanders, and Water spirits are called Undines.

After the circle is formed and consecrated with the elements, a witch may next call down the quarters by invoking the Lords of the Watchtowers (the Mighty Ones, Old Ones, the Guardians), to preside and watch over the proceedings. Specific elementals; those whose correspondences best suit the work or rite being carried out, may then be invited to participate. Their correspondences are closely related to those of the elements, so I shall not re-write them here (See Correspondences in Part 1). Care needs to be taken when calling the aid of elementals, due to the duplicity of all things. Elementals are not always the helpful little creature’s we expect them to be, and can be mischievous, bad tempered little devils if allowed to get out of control.

In folklore elementals were thought to be fickle, malicious and unpredictable spirits sent by the “wicked-witch” in the form of familiars to trick people into accidents and traps and sometimes killing them. This is the sort of belief that led to the plight of witches during the Witch-hunt’s and purges of the 17th–18th centuries. Still today in contemporary Witchcraft, witches use pets and animals as familiars, but stress and emphasizes is given to working with good and friendly elementals in producing positive magic. A colorful character from contemporary times that used a familiar was Sybil Leek. Her trademark was a cape, loose gown, and a pet jackdaw named “Mr. Hotfoot Jackson”.

Gnomes:

Gnomes are the spiritual beings who inhabit the spirit realm of the elements. As spirits of energy they are commonly invisible to the average person, only those that possess second sight can see them clearly. However being on the first level of the spirit realm, they are close enough to the physical realm in order to easily inter-react with it. By tradition Gnomes were the protectors of secret treasures hidden in caves beneath the earth. Legends have it that they were reluctant to help and aid humans, but if you were to gain the trust of one, they could prove to be powerful friends. On the other hand, if you were to lose their trust, deceive them or misuse their aid, then all hell could be let lose.

In Wicca/Witchcraft Gnomes are called to instill confidence, steadfastness and endurance, but can also be used to bring about gloom, melancholy and despair should that be required. In some old legends Gnomes were ruled over by a king called Gob whose followers became known as Goblins. Goblins were wondering mischievous sprites that would attach themselves to households, particularly those containing children. When they moved in, they would help by doing the chores at night and by playing with and disciplining the children, giving them presents when they were good or punishing them when they were bad.

When upset the Goblins general good nature could became unpredictable. They would bang pots and pans in the kitchen at night just to keep the household awake, or move furniture about while knocking on walls and doors and snatching bedclothes off sleeping persons, generally becoming a nuisance. You’ve heard of poltergeist activity? Well this is a type of it. A Poltergeist is generally believed to be the spirit of a departed person or animal, who hasn’t for various reasons withdrawn from the physical realm. It can also be an elemental that has been called for a task and for some reason failed to complete it, hence the haunting. Witches are often called to exorcise haunting by contacting the spirit and persuading it to move on, or if that fails they can contact higher spirits or deities to banish them.

Gnomes and Goblins can be called to aid all magic associated with the element Earth as given in the correspondences above.

Sylphs:

Sylphs are the spiritual beings that inhabit the spirit realm of the element Air. Their activities are manifest in the gatherings of clouds, in the blowing of the wind, the downpour of rain and the formation of snow. They are also responsible for the growth and maturity of all the plant life we see around us. In folklore, Sylphs appeared in many myths and legends. Some tales tell us that if you listened carefully, they would talk to you on the wind as it passed through caves and caverns.

Its been suggested that the Muses of Greek mythology were Sylphs who had assumed human form in order to guide humans on a spiritual path. They are associated with the activity of the mind and can influence and inspire human actions. It is generally though that they are attracted to poets and artists and instills them with visions of spiritual beauty. Sylphs are ruled by a King being known as Paralda, and in form they appear to humans as in the classic image of the fairies.

Sylphs can be called to aid in all magick associated with the element Air as shown in the correspondences above.

Salamanders:

Salamanders are the spiritual beings that inhabit and control the element Fire, and it is through their activities that fire exists. There are many family branches of salamanders each differing in size, appearance and dignity, and in folklore they were ruled over by a magnificent flaming king being called Djin. Salamanders are the strongest and most powerful of all the elementals having the ability to extend or diminish their size as needed. They and others of their kind are mischievous spirits, who like children don’t fully understand the results of their actions, which can affect the thoughts and actions of people around them. As such, strong control is required when using their aid in ritual or magick.

Salamanders are thought to move about most freely at night and if you are ever lucky enough to see them, they would appear as small balls of light drifting across the air and water. Old-time sailors often saw them investigating the sails of their ships while sailing at sea, and the term “St. Elmo’s Fire” was coined to refer to such phenomenon. On land they are mostly perceived as small lizard-like flames about a foot or more in length.

When used in magick, Salamanders can have a profound effect upon human nature. Linked through the heat with which we maintain are bodily temperatures, they can influence our emotions and general temperament. When someone is called a hothead, or is referred to as hot-blooded, these are terms referring to their elemental nature.

Undines:

Undines are the spiritual beings that inhabit the spirit realm of the element Water. They not only exist in the water itself, but also in substances of humidity and all other liquids. They appear to humans as beautiful water nymphs or the classic mermaids of myths and legends which tell of them being seen gracefully riding the waves of the ocean shimmering and shining with all the colors of the sea. They are also said to frequent marshlands, rocky pools, springs, streams and wells. They control the forces of nature in relation to plant and marine life as well as the tides and motions of water.

In some cultures undines inhabited waterfalls, while others live in rivers and lakes, every fountain had its nymph, and every ocean its oceanides (daughters of Oceanus the Titan ruler of the sea before Poseidon). In folklore the ruler of the undines is a being called Necksa whom they love, serve, and honor unceasingly. Undines are emotional beings, very friendly and open to being of service to humans, but care must be taken when working with undines for they can have a strong influence upon a person’s emotional well-being.

The smaller undines were often portrayed as tiny winged beings that people have mistakenly called fairies. Seen near flowers and plants that grow in watery areas, they had gossamer wings and shining clothing. Some undine’s closely resembled people in appearance and size, they lived in coral caves under the ocean or on the shores of lakes and banks of rivers. Undines work with the vital essences, the liquids of plants, animals, and human beings and are present in everything containing water.

Undines can be called to aid in all magick associated with the element Water as shown in the correspondences above.

 

Source

 

Controverscial.Com

 

A Pagan Credo

WiccanA Pagan Credo

 

We worship the Great Goddess of Nature in all Her resplendent diversity. She is the Birthgiver: the origin of all life on this planet. Threefold are Her ways: Maiden, Mother, and Crone, for She is all Goddesses and all women. We honor Her everywhere: for She is everything; and in everyone: for She is all of us.

We worship the Horned One, Lord of Field and Forest. He is the wild and natural man in each of us: innocent, unfettered, and untamed. He is Lord both of Light and of Darkness: all Gods and all men. Our Lord is both Seed and Sower, Hunter and Prey; the eternal cycle of Sunlight and Shadow. We honor Him everywhere: for He is everything; and in everyone: for He is all of us.

Our Temple is a Sacred Space between the Worlds of Gods and Mortals. We worship in the Circle and in Nature: in our bodies, hearts, and minds. Our Gods are everywhere; but most of all they are within us. Therefore it is both our right and our sacred duty to discover and develop the Being within: for we may claim no greater Power than that of our own Higher Nature.

Our Goddess says: “If what you seek you do not find within yourself, you shall never find it! For behold: I have been with you from the beginning of Time and I am that which you shall embrace at the end of all your desire.”

We are a free people who dare to be Ourselves. To each of us is given the right to choose Good or Evil, Truth or Falsehood, Wisdom or Folly as our own understanding shall determine them. To each of us is given the responsibility for our choices: our thoughts, our words, and our actions.

“An Ye Harm None, Do What Ye Will,” is, and shall ever be, the greatest of all our Laws.

 

—- Sally Eaton, Author

 

NEW BOOK OF THE LAW

THE NEW BOOK OF THE LAW
[sources: The Book of The Law, The Old Laws for the Old Religion, The
Great Book of the Law, The Dragon Law]

Preface: In my years of teaching and running a group, I have always
had a dissatisfaction with the popular “Book of the Law” available to
most Seekers. I felt it to be too archaic in its wording and perspec-
tive — and while it was valuable in the Burning Times, it simply does
not deal with the concerns and needs of “modern-day” Witches. Over
the years I became familiar with several other sets of Laws. Each of
these had many good points, yet they also had their disadvantages as
well.

Recently, I decided to do something daring — I took the four dif-
ferent versions of the Laws which I had, and combined and reworked
them. I deleted what was no longer pertinent or meaningful, rewording
others to make them clearer and more understandable, as well as
throwing in a few new ones which I felt had been lacking.

I believe that what has evolved out of this work is a set of Laws
which
are readable, usable, and most importantly, pertinent to the needs of
today’s Witches and Neo-Pagans. It is with these thoughts and hopes
that I would like to share them with you. If you should find merit or
worth in them, then I will feel as though I have accomplished some-
thing. The material in this booklet has not been copyrighted, so you
may reproduce the Laws for students or friends, or reprint them in
your publication. It is my sincere hope that the New Book of the Law
will be of use to the Craft Community.

Blessed Be, Lady Galadriel

PART ONE

1. The Laws were created to give our lives form and order, that all
might be balanced throughout all of the planes. In truth there are
two sets of laws which govern us — one sets forth the ways of the
Wiccan, and the other the ways of the Universe. Both are important,
both should be observed with respect and treated with honor. The
Laws were shaped and molded to teach us, to advise us, and to counsel
us in our time of mortal life on earth.

2. Honor the Gods, for They are the channels and the manifestation of
the Source. Honor yourself, for this force also lies within you.
Love the Gods as They love you, and by loving yourself and your
brothers and sisters, so the Gods shall honor you. As the love and
joy of a man and a woman [or “lover and beloved” — LAH] flowers and
grows when nurtured with respect, and cultivated with understanding
and honor, so should you love the Gods.

3. The Goddess is the Great Mother, and the God is the Great Father,
and we are Their children; and we shall worship Them, for They are
the rulers of the Universe, and all that is therein. Therefore, O
Children of the Gods, try Them not, nor attempt to test Them, for
They shall show you that he Ways of the Craft are not to be belittled
or mocked.
1175

4. Let the Power of the Craft flow from you only in love — or not at
all. For it has always been known that the energy webs which we
weave and maintain shall eventually return to encircle their creator.
Thus our works become either the net which entagles and binds us, or
the web of light by which we find the Gods.

5. Let the Rites of the Wicca be a way for the children of the Gods to
be as One — for Power only flows when unified. Always should you
revere the Earth, and heal and tend Her, for She is our life, our
Mothership, on which we navigate the dark currents of space.

6. When you reap the harvests of your lands, then you shall not reap
one corner of the field, nor glean the herb gardens, or the fallen
fruits of the orchards. These you shall offer to the Earth Mother,
in direct return, or through offerings made to your Circle, or to
sustain its Priests and Priestesses.

7. Always be proud to be of the Wicca, but do not allow your pride to
become vanity — for those who are conceited are a stubling block at
the door of the Temple, and they shall be cast adrift, to swim within
their own vanity.

8. Observe and listen, reserving your judgement, for until all the
silver is weighed, who can know the worth thereof?

9. As like breeds like, even more so does good beget love and joy.
Your life will be full of love and joy if you are joyful and happy.

10. Your teachers are the servants of the Gods, and they shall plant
the seeds of knowledge within the minds of their students, and they
shall use their power for the good of the Wicca. Yet it is each
individual’s duty to tend the seeds which are planted, and to make
the final harvest. Those who misuse the power and the trust of the
teacher’s position shall have to answer to the Lords of Karma, and
adjust the balance accordingly.

11. The Temples of the Gods, which are Their abode on Earth, shall
belong to all Their children, and each Circle shall be as a special
family. Do naught against any Temple or any family of the Wicca, lest
you do that thing unto the Gods, and against yourself.

12. You must not be a teller of tales amongst the children of the
Goddess, and you must hold no malice or evil thoughts towards others
of the Wicca.

13. You should not lie, nor give false testimony before your Elders,
or those who are of the Wicca — for liars are fools, and a menace
unto themselves, and to the Wicca. Be truthful in all your works and
deeds, especially within the Circle, for what you say within the
presence of the Gods becomes manifest.

14. You must not put stumbling blocks in the way of those who do not
follow the Path of the Wicca. You must make no unrighteous judge-
ments of their ways, and you should aid them with an attitude of love
when it is asked for. Yet ever should you keep the Counsel of the
Elders, and reveal naught to others of where our Circles may be, nor
may you reveal our ways without the consent of the Priestess.
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15. When you make a vow to the Lord or the Lady, or you swear an oath
to another of the Wicca, then you must do all that has come forth from
your mouth, for a covenant with the Gods, or with the Wicca, is your
Honor, and woe to those who care not for the fetters they attach to
their souls by not keeping their word.

16. The Great Mother and Father would not have their children suffer
the indignities of oppressors for their sake, for what is within the
hearts of Their children is dear and true to Them. The Ancient and
Mighty Ones shall cause the balance to be made for those who desecrate
the Lord and Lady, Their temples, or Their creations.

17. Never shall you use Magick, nor the Craft, to cause harm, for this
is misuse of the Power, and it is not to be condoned. To cause the
death of another through the Craft is to require the death of the Self
in sacrifice.

18. Never betray any of the brethren, nor the lore of our people, for
you are all servants of the Gods, and must live by the virtues of
love, honor and wisdom. Let truth, loyalty and honor be your creed.
Let them be your guides, tempered by love and wisdom.

19. The Order of the Gods shall you keep, and within Their Circles
shall you walk. You should not say “I believe” when you doubt, nor
claim to obey the Lord and Lady’s word when you never enter into the
Temple. You must not profess with your lips that which is not in your
heart.

20. Do not use the names of the Gods in negative or evil ways, for
They love and cherish Their children above all others. All others
They love, even those who know them not. Yet those who hate and curse
in Their name shall have the Mighty Ones take the measure of their
worth.

21. In any disputes between the children of the Goddess, no one may
invoke any laws but those of the Craft, or any tribunal but that of
Priestess, Priest, and Elders.

22. No one of the Wicca may do anything which will endagner the Craft,
nor bring any of the Wicca into conflict with the Law of the Land, or
with any of our persecutors.

23. Your magickal tools are channels to that which is most precious
and pure within you. Do not cheapen them by haggling their price
when you acquire them.

24. Never accept money for the use of the Power. It is sorcerors and
charlatans who accept money for their spells and prayers. If you
accept no money, you will be free from the temptation to use the Craft
for evil or unworthy causes.

25. You shall never take unduly from any human, animal or elemental
that which is not yours to take — for if you steal from another, in
the end you will have to sacrifice something dearer to you in order
to attain the balance.

26. Show honor to all people, that they may look up to you, and
respect you, and their eyes shall become a mirror for your soul.
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27. Those who are of the Wicca shall not own slaves, for one person
may not own the spirit of another, for only the Great Mother and
Father own our souls. Nor shall you take as a pledge any person’s
life, for to do so is to take upon yourself both a mill and a mill-
stone.

28. If a stranger sojourns with you, you shall do them no wrong; they
shall be as one of the Circle, born amongst ye, and you shall deal
with them as you would yourself.

29. Just weights and just balances shall be given by you, and just
value shall you give, and thereby receive threefold.

30. Your altars shall be kept clean, pure and holy, and all that is
brought into the Temple or the Circle shall be cleansed and blessed,
for the joy of the Gods, and of the Wicca.

31. A clean mind should have a clean body. You should keep your body,
your clothes, and your house clean, in honor of the Mother, who gives
these things to you.

32. Let none die without honor, without love, without respect, unless
their actions have decreed otherwise.

33. You should not couple together if it shall cause pain, jealousy or
deprivation to another by doing so. Union for malice or evil reasons
such as these upsets the balance, and the Lords of the Universe shall
make adjustments accordingly.

34. Let those who would love, and would be as one, and bear child, be
handfasted. For the sharing of love in this manner is beauteous, and
love’s union in the energy of the Gods, and the heritage of the child.
It is important for children to know and to identify with those who
brought them here.

35. The Law of the Goddess is that none of the Wicca shall take and
wed someone who they do not love, whether it is to harm another, or
for some form of material gain.

36. Remember that your children are Goddess-spawned, and are free
spirits. You do not own nor control them. They are your brethren,
come to visit for a while, that they may share in the vision of your
love and wisdom. Let each parent realize that although they may teach
and guide with love, the child shall also teach the parent, and aid
them in their growth and lesson

37. The etheric web and energy vortexes of the earth are in constant
flux and motion to adjust to the needs of the planet. The sacred
trust of the Wicca is to create and to maintain centers of light and
knowledge, using the magick of the divine spark within us to focus and
channel the forces of the Universal fire. And these are the channels
established between the worlds of the stars and the realms of the
earth, bringing in and regulating the spirit flames which energize and
activate all life forms. Thus we tend and guard the threads of
creation, and we weave the patterns of life and manifestation in an
ever-evolving tapestry.
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38. Never use your heritage or position for self-glorification or
gain. Respect your magick and our ways. We must always recognize that
while others may look to us to lead them, they too are our guides.
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39. Keep yor body strong, your mind keen, and your purpose pure, for
within your being you shall channel the Power, and it needs to be
strong and pure. And these are the keys to the path of Oneness, and to
communication with the Gods. Yet first you must learn to speak to
Them in such a manner as They can comprehend you. For the children of
the Wicca must aid the Gods, and work with Them, otherwise the Gods
cannot aid and work with you. Ever remember that the Priest and
Priestess are the living representatives of the God and Goddess
Forces, and likewise that all humans carry these forces within them,
though they may lie dormant and unawakened.

40. As the Great Mother and Father come unto one another and create
with the pure vibration of Love-Wisdom, so should you strive to make
your Temple pure in vibration, and thus a fitting place wherein you
may invite the Gods. Thus, your Circle should always be duly purified
and cast, and likewise, those who would use the gateways and travel
the Circle between the earth and other realms should also be duly
prepared and purified.

41. The Goddess hath said, “I shall not carry thee, yet neither shall
I hinder thee, nor keep thee from having the same opportunities as all
of my children. Thou art free, yet thou shalt not be coddled like
babes in the storm. If thou hast true devotion within thee, then all
obstacles may be overcome.”

42. The laggard is but half a person — and though half is better than
none, the whole is twice as good as the half. Those who do not work,
or who lack the will and desire to learn the ways of the Gods, unto
them is said, “The Ancient and Mighty Ones shall not keep thee within
their house, if ye learneth not.”

43. A sanctuary you shall make unto the Gods, that They may dwell
amongst you. And you shall fashion it to the best of your ability,
according to all tha your Elders shall show you, and pure energy shall
you place therein.

44. An altar shall you make to unto the Lady, and you shall make due
reverence unto Her, for every place where She is exalted, She will
come
to you and bless you. And you shall fashion your altar out of wood or
stone, and burn incense and candles thereon, at the proper times, in
observance of her ways.

45. You should set aside at least one day during each moon unto the
Goddess, and on these days you shall do Her work; and on those days
She shall renew Her children and bless them.

46. Learn to build your own Temple, and to craft your own sacred
Circle, and all the tools that are used therein — for to be a person
of the Craft is to be a person of consequence.

47. Let each of you inscribe your own record of our ways and teach-
ings. For the course of each Wiccan should be charted, that the
patterns of their life-web may be made known and utilized. Let each
Wiccan start their Book of Light with the teachings and lore of their
tradition, yet let it also contain the rites and ways of each in-
dividual, which are the harvest of each child of the Wicca, to use the
wisdom of their heritage as the seeds of their own wisdom. Thus shall
our lore and knowledge continue to grow and unfold, like a beautiful
flower.
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48. It is right to study and to understand the sigils, statues and
stories of the Gods, for they shall guide your thoughts to Them, and
They shall hear them. Yet you must ever remember that you worship not
the sign nor the statue, but the Gods which inspired them.

49. If your Circle owns any land, let all guard it, and help to keep
it clean. Let all justly guard all monies of the Circle, as well as
the rights and property of all members of the Circle.

50. If any Wiccan truly labors, then it is right that they should have
their just pay. This is not considered the taking of money for the
Art, but good and honest work. Yet if any Wiccan works willingly for
the good of the Craft, or for their brothers and sisters without pay,
then it is to their greatest honor.

51. If any Wiccan should deny themselves some pleasure or material
indulgence in order to do service in the Circle, this person shall be
blessed and remembered. For those who give for the greater good of
all shall have their spirit uplifted.

52. Know also that if you gift the Lady’s Priests and Priestesses, or
Her Circles, this is an offering made unto the Mother Herself, for a
true Priest or Priestess strives always to do Her work, and to be of
service to Her children, so to honor and respect them is to honor and
respect the Queen of All.

53. And the offerings which are considered the most pleasing to the
Gods are these: the fruits of the orchards the scents of the trees and
herbs the metals of the earth the waters of the earth the flowers of
the meadows and the milk of all mothers. Yet offerings of labor or
money are honest too, and these will also be accepted — moreso if you
work with love in your heart, for always there is work to be done for
the Gods, and service to be given to the children of the Wicca.

54. If your offerings are made to restore the balance, it must by of a
nature that it not offensive to the Gods. It must be of value, yet
given with a free heart. Thus shall the harmony be restored. If your
offerings are given with a heart filled with love and devotion, or are
of service to the Gods, or to the Craft, then shall you receive
blessings manifold.

55. And when you make an offering unto the Gods, you should offer it
thru the most proper medium, at the proper times, and in such a manner
as to make it acceptable. Any and all remains of the rituals shall be
consumed in the fire, or buried within the Earth, as a way of retur-
ning to the Source all that we use in the observance of our ways, thus
ensuring the continuity of the cycle.

56. All may use the Craft to help and aid them, or for the advantage
of their Circle, or the Craft — yet only if you are sure that you
harm none. Let each Wiccan and Circle always debate these matters at
length. Only if all be satisfied that none be harmed in any way, may
the Art then be used. If it is not possible to achieve your ends one
way, then perhaps the goal may be achieved by actng in a different
way, so as to harm none.
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57. Throughout the world it has been many a year since Wiccans have
been burned. Yet misuse of the Power might raise the persecutions
once again. So never break the Laws, however much you might be temp-
ted, and never consent to their being broken. And if you know they
are being broken, then you must work strongly against it.

58. In days of old it was decided by the Mighty Ones who came before
us that the Art might be used to restrain others from harming the
Craft or its children, yet only after great consultation with all
members of the Circle, and only then to deflect or to constrain them.

59. And such were the ways of the Lady that She brought us forth in
joy, and such were the Ways of the Lord that His reign gave all life
pleasure. Offer love in your worship and all shall be joyous in
beauty.

60. In the dimly remembered dawn of ages past, the Wicca were truly
free. Then, in Atlantis came the Age of the Misuse of Power, followed
by the Ages of Persecution and Suffering. Thus the people of the
Wicca hid themselves and cloaked their knowlege, and wove veils of
secrecy and silence. And this is how the Ways of the Wicca have been
preserved through the time of darkness. Yet much of the ways of our
people were lost to the ignorance of others.

61. Yet the cycle spirals ever on — and the Age of the Earth Mother
once again draws nigh. We must be strong — one with our birthright,
and one with our Gods, if we are to bring forth the balance. Those
who would harm us, or attempt to enslave us, we must overcome — yet
only through light and love, and never through violence or the evil of
chaos. And through our efforts the time of our people will come into
being once more. In the times which lie ahead, there lies much work
to be done, so that once more the cycles of life are drawn to the path
of light, and the balance acheived through the power of love.

62. In order to bring the ways of Light and Love and Life to the
peoples of the Earth, our secrets are slowly becoming secrets no more,
and it is good that this is so — for the age of shadow and secrecy is
passing. Yet the sharing of our ways needs always to be guided by
wisdom and by love. Let our rites and our mysteries be kept sacred.
Let no one defile our worship or our heritage. For the defilement of
our ways is an honor loss to self, and for the Craft.

63. Let each High Priestess govern her Circle with justice and Love,
and with the help and advice of the Elders and the High Priest, always
heeding the messages of the Gods when they come.

64. Ever remember that although the Priest is the force with which the
Circle is built, the Priestess is the ruler therein — for it is
through
her that the Goddess created the world, and all things therein.

65. The High Priestess will heed all complaints of all Pagans and
Wiccans, and strive to settle any differences between them with reason
and with justice.

66. Let each Circle of Light decide how it shall be known — whether
by earthly name or magickal one. For each child of the Wicca knows
best the safety or dangers of their homeland.
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67. Let each Circle or Temple maintain and dedicate unto the Goddess
and the God all the things that are required for Their rituals, for
what is blessed in the name of the Gods rightly belongs to Them, and
the Priest and Priestess shall be the caretakers thereof.

68. Anyone of the circle who is of sufficient rank, and wishes to form
a new Circle, shall tell the High Priestess and the Elders of their
intentions. Members of the old Circle may join the new Circle when it
is formed, but if they do so they must leave the other Circle, unless
otherwise instructed. For it is the Old Law that each Wiccan may join
the Circle of their choice, yet their energy should not be divided
between two or more Temples.

69. The Elders of the old and new Circles shall meet in peace and with
respect, to decide the level of interaction and connection between the
Circles. Yet it is known that the splitting of a Circle often means
strife. So only if it is truly in a spirit of peace and harmony should
the Circles meet for the celebration of the Great Festivals.

70. None shall enter the Circle that have a sickness or an ailment
which may be passed on to the Lady’s other children — for to do so
causes harm to yourself, as well as to the others of the Circle.
Rather should the Healers go unto the sick one, that through the love
of the Gods they shall be made well and whole once more.

71. It has been judged lawful that if any of the Craft need a house,
or land, and none will sell, to incline someone’s mind so as to be
willing to sell, providing it harms none and the full price is paid
without haggling.

72. In the matter of quarrels or disputes between the members of the
Circle, the High Priestess shall convene the Council, and inquire into
the matter. The Council shall hear each person privately, and then
both together. And they shall decide justly, not favoring one side
nor the other.

73. If an agreeable resolution cannot be reached, then that Wiccan
must leave the Circle, for a Circle of Light cannot be properly formed
where there is disagreement and discord. And when a Circle is not
properly formed, the energy within is either dissipated, or turns
ugly, festering like a hidden sore. So let them leave, but only with
love in their hearts and yours, for even though your paths may div-
erge, you are still all children of the Wicca, and there must be no
violence between us. Bear no grudges, hold no thoughts of vengeance,
for this will rot away the foundation of your power.

74. It has ever been recognized that there are some people who can
never agree to work under any others. At the same time there are also
people who cannot rule justly. To those who must ever be chief there
is but one answer: “Void this Circle, and seek another one, or if ye
be of sufficient rank, then form a Circle of your own.” To those who
cannot rule justly, the answer shall be “Those who cannot bear your
rule will leave you.” For none may come to Circle with those with
whom they are at variance, for to do so angers the Gods, and hinders
the Craft.
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75. Those that do wrong without knowlege shall be held innocent; those
that do wrong through carelessness shall be judged lacking in wisdom,
and dealt with according to the nature of the transgression. Those
who do wrong with deliberation and forethought shall be thrice punish-
ed, and the Lords of Karma shall lay low their pride.

76. Each person must make a balance for their words and actions, and
the judgements of the Elders should incline to try to make good come
from the injustice or wrong-doing. Many are the ways to restore the
balance, so let the judgements of the Elders and the Priestess be in
keeping with this.

77. Do not turn aside those who seek the ways of the Wicca for the
want of an offering or the lack of a robe. You are the servants of
the Gods, and the servants of Their people, and those that seek for
the Gods you must aid in their quest.

78. Of those who would inquire as to the ways of the Goddess, or who
wish to become of the Wicca, ye shall search their hearts, and even
into their spirits you shall look, as you are able. For the Wicca do
not look to acquire mere numbers. Let none be turned away if their
hearts are true, and their desire earnest.

79. The hidden children are like the strings of a harp: each one may
give a clear note, and when gathered together in sympathy and accord,
they shall give rise to a beautiful symphony. Yet when struck without
reason or thought, these notes may cause discord or disharmony.
Therefore the Gods decree to Their Teachers and Priests that all must
be taught to master their harp, and to pluck their strings with care,
that they cause no discord or imbalance.

80. Choose the Priests and Teachers of the Wicca with diligence and
with care. The qualities that you should search for within them are
Faith, Belief, Knowledge, Ability, Patience, Leadership, Humility, and
a loving nature — for they must lead and teach the children of the
Goddess, and will thereby have the power to do great good, or to cause
great imbalance.

81. In practice it should be that the greatest of the Priests and
Priestesses should guide the rituals within each of the Temples of the
Old Gods, and truly you should be content with the advice and guidance
given by them. Yet ever it should be given so that it is clear and
understandable, for within the Temple each of the Wicca is free, and
thus they should be able to recognize and to understand our ways and
their implications. And those who cannot explain the inner workings,
or give just cause and reason for their decisions, may be questioned,
or the wisdom of the advice weighed.

82. Let the Priestess and Priest lead as long as they are able, and
their leadership be wise and strong, and to the benefit of the Wicca.
Yet if their health is ill-favored, or if the next generation needs to
try their hand, then let them have the vision and the wisdom to step
away from their position, and pass the duties of the Circle t o
another. Let them not become overly attached to the office, nor too
fond of the power.
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83. If a Priestess or a Priest should tire of their duties and char-
ges, then they may step down, but only after having trained and
acknowledged a successor. If a Priest or Priestess deserts their
Circle, then they have lost the right to ever lead again within this
life, so great a trust they have broken. If they should return to the
Circle within one turn of the Wheel, and are judged to have true
atonement in their hearts, new insight and growth, then they may be
forgiven, and allowed to return to the Circle, yet they shall worship
only, and hold no office or title. Leadership is a sacred commitment
and an honor, and they have shown that they cannot be trusted with
such responsibility.

84. Any Priestess, Priest, or Elder who consents to a breach of the
Laws regarding the use of the Craft to cause harm to others must
immediately be relieved of their office, for it is the lives of the
children of the Goddess which they endanger, as well as the honor of
the Craft.

85. The High Priestess may take a Sabbatical from her Circle, if her
personal life and duties require it, for up to a year and a day.
During that time, the Maiden shall act as High Priestess. If the High
Priestess does not return at the end of a year and a day, then the
Initiates of the Circle shall name a new Priestess. Unless there is
good reason to the contrary, the person who has done the work of the
Priestess should reap the reward. If someone else is named, then the
Maiden should continue in that office.

86. Each Priestess and Priest shall choose their own consorts, yet let
them be wise in the learning of our people, and thus others shall
abide by the wisdom of their choice. Yet if the Circle feels the
decision is ill-advised, or that they cannot abide and work in honor
and trust with that consort, then they may request a gathering of all
concernted to meet and to talk, and to resolve the balance with love
and honor. For only those who are pure and strong, keen and wise,
patient and loving, can effectively and properly carry out the duties
of a Keeper of the Circle.

87. Those of the Priesthood shall not neglect their mates, or their
children, or their house, nor anything which is in their possession;
nor shall the sick and the needy be neglected for the sake of the
Circle. Therefore let them adjust the one thing against the other,
that neither should suffer, and that which is given by the Gods is
treated with love and respect.

88. Long ago, at the time of Creation, it was deemed that the female
should hold the power of life-giving. And such was the male force
drawn to the love and beauty of the Creation of life, that he sur-
renders unto her keeping the force of his powers in the furtherance of
life. Yet the Priestess must always remember that the fuel of the
flames which light the fires within her Temple comes from the Priest.
Thus she must use the force wisely, and only with love, and she must
honor and respect he who is the activator of the Life Force.

HERE ENDS THE NEW BOOK OF THE LAW.

Published by: The Grove of the Unicorn