Category: Our History

Let’s Talk Witch – The Elements

The Elements

What do earth, air, fire, and water have in common? It’s elementary, my dear Watson. All four are called elements and their use is everywhere in witchy practices.

Each element corresponds to a quarter when used in Pagan rituals (the quarters are the four directions-north, south, east, and west-each of which corresponds to an element), and each also has various colors and properties that are associated with it. For instance:

Earth-The north quarter. Usually associated with the color green (although some use brown), it is said to be grounding and is associated with the physical body, the home, the practical matters. You can use anything earthy to represent this element on your altar, even a small plant, but I like to use a rock or gemstone crystal.

Air – The east quarter. Associated with the color yellow (so if you are using candles at eachof the four quarters in your circle, this is the color for that quarter – see how this works?) and the intellect and communication. It is usually represented on the altar by a feather or incense, since the smoke from the incense floats up through the air to the gods.

Fire – The south quarter. Associated with the color red, creativity, and passion (whoo, baby!), fire can be represented on the altar by a small burning candle or a small cauldron.

Water – The west quarter (if you have trouble remembering which one is which, as most of us do in the beginning, try remembering water=west, air=east, since the sounds are close). Associated with the color blue, the emotions, intuition (things that are always fluid and ever-changing). Water is usually represented on the altar by, well, water. You can put some out in a bowl or a special container, or use a shell instead if you want.

These four elements show up in almost every aspect of day-to-day Witchcraft, but it is important to remember that there is a fifth element that we recognize as well, and that is the element of Spirit. This element is what binds the other four together as indeed it binds us all to each other. And of all the elements that you use as a Witch, spirit is probably the one that you will call upon the most, whether you realize it or not.
 

Source

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

Witches Rede of Chivalry

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Witches Rede of Chivalry

Insofar as the Craft of the Wise is the most ancient and most honorable creed of humankind, it behooves all who are Witches to act in ways that give respect to the Old Gods, to their sisters and brothers of the Craft, and to themselves.

Therefore, be it noted that:

Chivalry is a high code of honour which is of most ancient Celtic Pagan origin, and must be lived by all who follow the Old ways.

It must be kenned that thoughts and intent put forth on this Middle-Earth will wax strong in other worlds beyond, and return… bringing into creation, on this world, that which had been sent forth. Thus one should exercise discipline, for “as ye sow, so shall ye reap.”

It is only by preparing our minds to be as Gods that we can ultimately attain godhead.

“This above all…to thine own self be true.”

A Witch’s word must have the validity of a signed and witnessed oath. Thus, give thy word sparingly, but adhere to it like iron.

Refrain from speaking ill of others, for not all truths of the matter may be known.

Pass not unverified words about another, for hearsay is, in large part, a thing of falsehoods.

Be thou honest with others, and have them known that honesty is likewise expected of them.

The fury of the moment plays folly with the truth; to keep one’s head is a virtue.

Contemplate always the consequences of thine acts upon others. Strive not to harm another.

Though there may be differences between those of the Old Ways, diverse covens and circles may well have diverse views. These views, even if they are different than yours, should always be given respect. When a coven, circle, clan, or grove is visited or joined, one should discern quietly their practices, and abide thereby.

Dignity, a gracious manner, and a good humour are much to be admired.

As a Witch, thou hast power, and thy powers wax strongly as wisdom increases. Therefore exercise discretion in the use thereof.

Courage and honour endure forever. Their echoes remain when the mountains have crumbled to dust.

Pledge friendship and fealty to those who so warrant. Strengthen others of the Brethren and they shall strengthen thee.

Thou shalt not reveal the secrets of another Witch or another Coven. Others have laboured long and hard for them, and cherish them as treasures.

Those who follow the mysteries should be above reproach in the eyes of the world, and should always seek to make this so.

The laws of the land should be obeyed whenever possible and within reason, for in the main they have been chosen with wisdom for the well-being of all.

Have pride in thyself, and seek perfection in body and in mind. For the Lady hath said, “How canst thou honour another unless thou give honour to thyself firstly?”

Those who seek the Mysteries should consider themselves as select of the Gods, for it is they who lead the race of humankind to the highest of thrones and beyond to the very stars.

 

—Author Unknown