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A Winter Solstice Story For Children

2011-05-12T12:58:00.000-07:00

A group of little Faeries huddled in their home deep under the roots of a giant oak tree. They were safe and snug in their tiny underground cave lined with dandelion fluff, bird feathers, and dried moss.

Outside, the wind blew cold and the snow fell softly down to cover the ground. "I saw the Sun King today," the faerie named Rose said as she pulled her mossy cloak tighter about her. "He looked so old and tired as he walked off through the forest. What is wrong with him?

"The great oak said he's dying" answered Daffodil.

"Dying? Oh, what will we do now?", Little Meadow Grass started to cry, "If the Sun King dies, our little plant friends will not grow. The Birds will not come and sing again. Everything will be winter for ever!" Lilac, Dandelion and Elder Blossom tried to comfort their friend, but they were all very sad. As they huddled together, there was a knock on the tiny door.

"Open up, Faeries," called out a loud voice. "Why are you hiding instead of joining us in our Solstice celebration?" Rose opened the door and the little gnome Brown Knobby pushed inside, shaking the glistening snowflakes off his brown coat and hat.

"We are too sad to celebrate," Daffodil said wiping her eyes, "The Sun King is dying, haven't you heard?"

"He is dead you silly Faeries." Brown Knobby's round dark eyes sparkled with laughter. "Now hurry, or we'll be late for the celebration!"

"How can you be happy and laughing?!" Elder Blossom stamped her little foot and frowned at the gnome. "If the Sun King IS dead, it will be winter always. We will never see the Sun again!"

"Silly little child-Faeries." Brown Knobby grabbed Dandelion by the hand and pulled her to her feet. "There is a secret to the Winter Solstice. Don't you want to know what it is?"

The Faeries looked at him in surprise. "Secret?" they all said. "What secret? We are only new little Faeries, you silly gnome. We've never been to a Solstice celebration before."

"Come and see. Come and see. Get your capes and come with me." Brown Knobby danced and jigged around the room. "Hurry, Hurry, don't be slow! To the Sacred Oak Grove through the snow!" He danced out of the door and disappeared.

"What did that gnome mean?" Rose asked as she gathered up her cloak of dried rose petals held together with cobwebs and lined with goose down.

"I don't know, but the Lady lives in the Sacred Grove." Meadow Grass pulled on her hat.

"Perhaps if we go to see the Goddess, She can explain what Brown Knobby was talking about".

The Faeries left their snug little home and trudged off through the snow toward the sacred oak grove. The forest was dark with only the light of the Moon shining down through the thick fir branches and bare limbs of maple and hawthorn. It was very difficult for them to get through the snow because they were very, very small. As they waded through the wet snow and shivered in the cold wind, they met a fox.

"Where are you going, Faeries?" the fox asked.

"To the sacred grove," they answered, they were cold and shivering.

"Climb on my back and I will take you there swiftly."

The fox knelt down so the Faeries could climb up. Then he raced off through the dark.

"Listen!" Lilac said as they neared the Grove of Sacred trees. "Someone is singing happy songs. A LOT of someones."

The beautiful music carried over the cold, still, moonlit air. It was the most beautiful music the Faeries had ever heard. The fox carried the Faeries right to the edge of the stone altar in the center of the grove, then knelt down.

"Look!" said Elder Blossom as they slid to the snow covered ground. "There is the Maiden and the Mother and the OLD Wise Crone, and many other Little People."

"They are all smiling and happy," said Lilac as she looked around at all the creatures.

"All the animals are here too," whispered Dandelion. "Why are they all looking at the Mother?"

The Faeries moved closer to the three Ladies seated on the altar stone. The Mother held a bundle close in Her arms, smiling down at it. The Maiden reached down and took the Faeries gently in her Hands. She held them close to the Mother so they could see what She held.

"A Baby!" the Faeries cried. " A new little Baby! Look how he glows!"

"He is the newborn Sun King," said the Maiden smiling.

"But Brown Knobby and the old oak tree said the Sun King was dead," the Faeries answered her. "How can this little baby be the Sun King?"

"That is the great secret of the Winter Solstice." The Old Wise One touched the baby's cheek with her wrinkled hand. "Every year the Sun King must come to the sacred grove during the darkest days of winter where he dies. I take his spirit to the Mother who gives him new life again. This is the way for all creatures, not just the Sun King."

" You mean everything lives and dies and lives again? the Faeries looked down in wonder at the baby Sun King, nestled in the arms of the Mother.

" Yes, Little Ones," answered the Old Wise Crone. "There is never an end to life. This is the great mystical secret of the Winter Solstice."

The Faeries laughed because they were so happy.

"I think the little Sun King should have gifts," said Rose. "I will show him where the wild roses bloom in the early summer."

"And, I will teach him to call the birds and listen to the songs of the wind," exclaimed Dandelion.

"When he is older and stronger, " said the Mother, "then the flowers will bloom at his touch, the birds will return to sing their songs, and the air will be warm from his breath, and winter will be gone for a time. Then the Sun King will run and play with you in the forest."

The little Faeries sang to the Baby Sun King, songs of the coming spring, the sweet smelling flowers, the bumbling bees, and all the secrets of the forest. And all the creatures within the sacred grove sang with them. Then the fox took them back to their snug home under the roots of the giant oak tree where they dreamed wonderful dreams, waiting for the warmth of spring and the fun they would have with the little Sun King.

(author unknown)

Books in PDF format to read:

Allen Greenfield - The Secret History Of Modern Witchcraft
Allen Greenfield - A True History Of Witchcraft

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Festival Of Salii

2011-05-12T05:53:00.000-07:00

In the Roman calendar, March was sacred to Mars. The "jumping priests," or Salii began the Festival of the Salii on March 21 with a purification of the sacred trumpets that the Romans carried off to war. That date was originally the Roman New Year's Day because it was the start of the growing and campaign season.

On March 21, the Salii marched to the" the bronze "the sacred shield that had fallen down from heaven, and its 11 copies. They danced through the streets carrying poles with the shields mounted on them in their left hands. With their other hand, they banged the shields with a drumstick. Even in the time of Cicero, the they sang was so ancient that he could not understand it.

At the end of each night, they would stop at a place to be feasted before starting up again the next day. This festival would end on March 24 when they would return to the Regia and return the shields.

Found at Wikipedia

Books in PDF format to read:

Reynold Nicholson - The Mystics Of Islam
Howard Phillips Lovecraft - The Festival
Aleister Crowley - The Soul Of Osiris

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The Purpose Of Mabon

2011-04-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

As a holiday, Mabon represents the time of honoring the dead, visiting burial sites, giving thankfulness for the end of the harvest season and the bounty it provides. These are the themes of closing, letting go and remembering. For the year, the harvest and for those who were lost to land of Avalon during the year.

Although many view the Harvest season as a celebration of life, it is also a celebration of death. The bounty you gather from your garden provides nourishment for you, family and friends. But it is also the death of those plants and vegetables which have been harvested from that garden. Thus Mabon is a celebration of the cycle of life.

There are many ways to give honor during this 2nd harvest festival. One old

traditional way is to visit the burial sites of your loved ones, placing an apple on their marker. This represents the promise of the Great Spirits for renewed life (a new incarnation).

This is a Celtic festival of thanksgiving, so what a better way to give thanks than to prepare a meal with the harvest of your garden. Those that indulge in wine can brew a new batch of this home made nectar of the Gods. Those that do not indulge, can brew preserves and jellies from grapes, raspberries and blackberries. Don't forget an apple pie for dessert.

A main course can consist of meats, most often red meats. But this is just a suggestion. In this day and age of healthy eating, you should prepare a meal that fits your personal lifestyle. However, your side dishes should consist of late summer and early fall vegetables.

During your meal, share tales and happy stories about those you lost during the year. Or share your experiences and review the lessons you feel you have learned during this past season. Reflect on your deeds and actions and give thanks for the gifts you were given.

After your meal, share the chore of cleaning up. This is a way of showing honor and respect to your host and hostess. Think of it as a physical action to show that you understand the interconnection of all life and the desire to respect what you have been given and thanks for receiving those gifts.

During the evening hours you can continue the festival with a formal holiday ritual. There are as many ways and suggestions for conducting such a ceremony as there are people on this planet.

End your evening in private reflection. It is important for anyone practicing a spiritual life to reflect on his or her actions. Record your thoughts, your emotions and your experiences. This is the true value of your book of shadows. And there is no better time to take stock of yourself and your life than during a High Holy Day.

From: Magickal Winds

Books in PDF format to read:

Anonymous - The Gospel Of Thomas
Howard Phillips Lovecraft - The Quest Of Iranon

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Roast Mutton For Mabon

2011-04-06T21:40:00.000-07:00

* 1 Lamb leg 7-8 pounds
* 2 teaspoons dried dill weed
* 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
* 1 teaspoon of salt
* 1/4 teaspoon of pepper

* 1 clove of garlic

Set oven at 325 F, for 3 1/2 hours for well done.

Sprinkle roast with seasonings, take knife and make several small insertions, place pieces of garlic in Roast. (Remove cloves before serving.) Place lamb, fat side up, on rack in shallow roasting pan.

Roast till desired pink(ness). 7-9 lb.: rare: 15-20 minutes, Medium: 20-25 minutes, well: 25-30 minutes per pound.

By Gordon Ireland

Books in PDF format to read:

Aleister Crowley - Songs For Italy
Joseph Jacobs - Europas Fairy Book
Nick Farrell - Notes On Geomancy

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Decorations And Activities For Mabon

2011-03-27T01:59:00.000-07:00

Activities vary with region and tradition, as well as personal preference. Some ideas include making a Sun Wheel or wreath. Also, one could mirror the Celtic tradition of dressing a corn stalk in cloths and burning it in celebration of the harvest and upcoming rebirth.

Simple altar decorations can be obtained by taking a calm "pilgrimage" through your local woods and collecting leaves, acorns, berries, and other things symbolic of nature's bounty. Some chose to sprinkle Autumn leaves around the house and on the sides of walk ways as decoration, though this may not be convenient if one lives in the city or doesn't enjoy the cleanup. Alternately, the changing leaves can be dipped in paraffin and put on wax paper. After the leaves dry, they may be placed around the house or in large jars with sigils of protection and/or abundance carved lightly into them.

Going through your personal gardens with thanks and lovingly harvesting what is ready is also appropriate. Breads may be baked in the shape of the Sun, combining fruits or vegetables and grains, incorporating both of the major aspects of this Harvest. The seeds of various plants are stored through winter for replanting, and therefore, the plant's rebirth in the Spring. A feast for friends and family always provides a cheerful abundance of energy and thanks.

Additional seeds and grains can be set out as offering to our fellow creatures, and provide a healthy chance for birds to join in the celebrations as well. Symbolic designs can be made out of the sprinklings if one chooses. Those less fortunate should not be omitted from the celebration. Small, meaningless (to you) packages of food and drink gifted to a homeless person will make their day!

To honor the dead, it is traditional to place apples on burial cairns as symbolism of rebirth and gratitude. Furthermore, it is a time to honor the elders, who have devoted so much time and energy to your growth and development. Something special is in order for these gracious people.

Source Unknown

Books in PDF format to read:

John Stearne - A Confirmation And Discovery Of Witchcraft Ocr Version
Eliphas Levi - The Conjuration Of The Four Elements

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Stuffed Acorn Squash For Mabon

2011-03-26T02:28:00.000-07:00

* 2 acorn squash, washed and cut in halves
* 1/2 stick of butter
* 1/2 cup of crushed Ritz crackers
* 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
* 1/4 cup brown sugar

Wash and cut acorn squash in half from stem to bottom. Scoup out the seeds and rub the inside and cut parts with butter. Put the acorn squash on a cookie sheet. Melt the butter, and mix in the walnuts, brown sugar, and crackers. Place in the holes of the squash and bake at 350 degrees for 30 - 40 minutes or until done.

by Stella Maris

Books in PDF format to read:

Anonymous - Meditation Of The Four Magickal Weapons
Ramsey Dukes - Ssotbme Revised An Essay On Magic
Eliphas Levi - The Conjuration Of The Four Elements

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Old Michaelmas Day Customs

2011-02-22T12:21:00.000-08:00

There is evidence that Michaelmas was once celebrated later in the year, on the 10th or 11th of October, this is now referred to as 'Old Michaelmas Day'. There may also have been a time when both dates for Michaelmas were acknowledged.

I like the legend of teenage girls collecting crab apples at the beginning of September, and arranging them in the initials of boys they fancied. If they could still discern the initials on Old Michaelmas Day, then then true love and romance would follow. The legend conjures two unrelated thoughts in my mind, firstly, would other girls mischievously re-arrange the apples to form the initials of a different boy. Secondly, what is the modern equivalent of this courtship ritual?

It's interesting that certain customs transfer from one season to another. For example, two people snapping the the Michaelmas goose's wishbone and thinking of a secret desire. Also, the concept of a Michaelmas Pie with ring, according to this legend, the lucky recipient will be engaged by Christmas and marry by Easter. Variations on these themes occur at Christmas and possibly at Thanksgiving.

Source

Books in PDF format to read:

Juliana Horatia Ewing - Old Fashioned Fairy Tales
Hugh Evelyn White - Hesiod The Homeric Hymns And Homerica
Gerald Massey - Gerald Massey Lectures

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Midsummer Celebrations In Ancient Times

2011-02-15T23:20:00.000-08:00

The celebration of Midsummer's Eve was from ancient times linked to the summer solstice. People believed that mid-summer plants had miraculous and healing powers and they therefore picked them on this night. Bonfires were lit to protect against evil spirits which were believed to roam freely when the sun was turning southwards again.

The solstice itself has remained a special moment of the annual cycle of the year since Neolithic times. The concentration of the observance is not on the day as we reckon it, commencing at midnight or at dawn, but the pre-Christian beginning of the day, which falls on the previous eve.

Here we have a short list of the different ways Midsummer was celebrated in ancient times:

ANCIENT CELTS: Druids, the priestly/professional/diplomatic corps in Celtic countries, celebrated ("Light of the Shore"). It was midway between the spring Equinox ( Alban Eiler ; "Light of the Earth") and the fall Equinox ( Alban Elfed ; "Light of the Water"). "This midsummer festival celebrates the apex of Light, sometimes symbolized in the crowning of the Oak King, God of the waxing year. At his crowning, the Oak King falls to his darker aspect, the Holly King, God of the waning year..." The days following form the waning part of the year because the days become shorter.

ANCIENT CHINA: Their summer solstice ceremony celebrated the earth, the feminine, and the "forces. It complemented the winter solstice which celebrated the heavens, masculinity and "forces.

ANCIENT EGYPT:In Ancient Egypt, summer solstice was the most important day of the year. The sun was at its highest and the Nile River was beginning to rise. Special ceremonies were held to honor the Goddess Isis. Egyptians believed that Isis was mourning for her dead husband, Osiris, and that her tears made the Nile rise and well over. Accurately predicting the floods was of such vital importance that the appearance of Sirius, which occurs around the time of the summer solstice, was recognized as the beginning of the Egyptian New Year.

ANCIENT GAUL: The Midsummer celebration was called" of "named after a mare goddess who personified fertility, sovereignty and agriculture. She was portrayed as a woman riding a mare.

ANCIENT GERMANIC, SLAV AND CELTIC TRIBES IN EUROPE: Ancient Pagans celebrated Midsummer with bonfires. "It was the night of fire festivals and of love magic, of love oracles and divination. It had to do with lovers and predictions, when pairs of lovers would jump through the luck-bringing flames..." It was believed that the crops would grow as high as the couples were able to jump. Through the fire's power, "...maidens would find out about their future husband, and spirits and demons were banished." Another function of bonfires was to generate sympathetic magic: giving a boost to the sun's energy so that it would remain potent throughout the rest of the growing season and guarantee a plentiful harvest.

ANCIENT ROME: The festival of Vestalia lasted from June 7 to June 15. It was held in honor of the Roman Goddess of the hearth, Vesta. Married women were able to enter the shrine of Vesta during the festival. At other times of the year, only the vestal virgins were permitted inside.

ANCIENT SWEDEN: A Midsummer tree was set up and decorated in each town. The villagers danced around it. Women and girls would customarily bathe in the local river. This was a magical ritual, intended to bring rain for the crops.

Books in PDF format to read:

Alvin Boyd Kuhn - A Modern Revival Of Ancient Wisdom
John Opsopaus - Interpretationes Of Ancient Herbs

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Celebrating The Winter Solstice

2011-01-24T20:56:00.000-08:00

Winter Solstice has been celebrated in cultures the world over for thousands of years. This start of the solar year is a celebration of Light and the rebirth of the Sun. In old Europe, it was known as Yule, from the Norse, "meaning wheel.

Today, many people in Western-based cultures refer to this holiday as "Christmas." Yet a look into its origins of Christmas reveals its Pagan roots.

Emperor Aurelian established December 25 as the birthday of the "Invincible Sun" in the third century as part of the Roman Winter Solstice celebrations. Shortly thereafter, in 273, the Christian church selected this day to represent the birthday of Jesus, and by 336, this Roman solar feast day was Christianized. January 6, celebrated as Epiphany in Christendom and linked with the visit of the Magi, was originally an Egyptian date for the Winter Solstice.

Most of the customs, lore, symbols, and rituals associated with "Christmas" actually are linked to Winter Solstice celebrations of ancient Pagan cultures. While Christian mythology is interwoven with contemporary observances of this holiday time, its Pagan nature is still strong and apparent. Pagans today can readily re-Paganize Christmastime and the secular New Year by giving a Pagan spiritual focus to existing holiday customs and by creating new traditions that draw on ancient ways. Here are some ways to do this: Celebrate Yule with a series of rituals, feasts, and other activities.

In most ancient cultures, the celebration lasted more than a day. The ancient Roman "festival sometimes went on for a week. Have Winter Solstice Eve and Day be the central focus for your household, and conceptualize other holiday festivities, including New Year's office parties and Christmas visits with Christian relatives, as part of your Solstice celebration. By adopting this perspective, Pagan parents can help their children develop an understanding of the multicultural and interfaith aspects of this holiday time and view "Christmas" as just another form of Solstice. Have gift exchanges and feasts over the course of several days and nights as was done of old. Party hearty on New Year's Eve not just to welcome in the new calendar year, but also to welcome the new solar year.

Adorn the home with sacred herbs and colors. Decorate your home in Druidic holiday colors red, green, and white. Place holly, ivy, evergreen boughs, and pine cones around your home, especially in areas where socializing takes place.

Hang a sprig of mistletoe above a major threshold and leave it there until next Yule as a charm for good luck throughout the year. Have family/household members join together to make or purchase an evergreen wreath. Include holiday herbs in it and then place it on your front door to symbolize the continuity of life and the wheel of the year. If you choose to have a living or a harvested evergreen tree as part of your holiday decorations, call it a Solstice tree and decorate it with Pagan symbols.

Convey love to family, friends, and associates. At the heart of Saturnalia was the custom of family and friends feasting together and exchanging presents. Continue this custom by visiting, entertaining, giving gifts, and sending greetings by mail and/or phone. Consider those who are and/or have been important in your life and share appreciation.

Reclaim Santa Claus as a Pagan Godform. Today's Santa is a folk figure with multicultural roots. He embodies characteristics of "(Roman agricultural god), "(Greek god, also known as Father Time), the (Celtic god of the dying year)" Ice /Grandfather Frost (Russian winter god), "(Norse sky god who rides the sky in a chariot drawn by goats)"/"(Scandinavian/Teutonic All-Father who rides the sky on an eight-legged horse), "(Norse fertility god), and the "(a Norse Land Spirit known for giving gifts to children at this time of year). Santa's reindeer can be viewed as forms of "the Celtic Horned God. Decorate your home with Santa images that reflect His Pagan heritage.

Honor the Goddess as Great Mother. Place Pagan Mother Goddess images around your home. You may also want to include one with a Sun child, such as "with "Pagan Goddess forms traditionally linked with this time of year include "(Native Mexican corn mother), "(Teutonic earth goddess of good fortune) (Roman women's goddess of abundance and prophecy), "(Roman goddess of plenty)" Set /"(Egyptian/multicultural All Goddess whose worship continued in Christian times under the name Mary)"/ St. Lucy (Roman/Swedish goddess/saint of light), and "(Italian Witch who gives gifts to children at this season).

Honor the new solar year with light. Do a Solstice Eve ritual in which you meditate in darkness and then welcome the birth of the sun by lighting candles and singing chants and Pagan carols. If you have a indoor fireplace or an outdoor fire circle, burn an oak log as a Yule log and save a bit to start next year's fire. Decorate the inside and/or outside of your home with electric colored lights. Because of the popularity of five pointed stars as holiday symbols, this is a good time to display a pentagram of blue or white lights.

Contribute to the manifestation of more wellness on Planet Earth. Donate food and clothing to poor in your area. Volunteer time at a social service agency. Put up bird feeders and keep them filled throughout the winter to supplement the diets of wild birds. Donate funds and items to non-profit groups, such as Pagan/Wiccan churches and environmental organizations. Meditate for world peace. Work magic for a healthier planet. Make a pledge to do some form of good works in the new solar year.

by Selena Fox

Books in PDF format to read:

Howard Phillips Lovecraft - The Rats In The Walls
Leo Ruickbie - The Winter Sabbat
Kathryn Rountree - Embracing The Witch And The Goddess

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May Day Maple Hearth Bread

2011-01-04T06:20:00.000-08:00

This is a very crusty and somewhat dry bread that is incredibly delicious and almost pastry-like in its sweetness. It is ideal for May Day/Beltane celebrations.

INGREDIENTS:

* 1 envelope active dry yeast
* 1/3 cup real maple syrup
* 1/4 cup warm water (105oF-115oF)
* 3 cups flour
* 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup shortening

DIRECTIONS:

Dissolve yeast in the water. Mix 1 1/2 cups of the flour with the brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in shortening. Dissolve the syrup into the yeast mix too. Add yeast mix to the flour mix; stir. Add flour until dough is easy to handle. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 1 minute. Cover and let rise for 15 minutes. Form into round, place on cookie sheet. Let rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350oF. Slice pleasing image into bread top. Bake for 30 minutes. Bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped. Loaf can be brushed with syrup or butter during last 5 minutes of baking.

NOTE: Your bread will have trouble rising if the syrup is too cold! Warm up the syrup if it has been in the refrigerator, it should be room temperature or warmer.

Yield: 1 loaf

Source: A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook

Books in PDF format to read:

Sepharial - Primary Directions Made Easy
Ann Groa Sheffield - Groa Top Nine Heathen Books
Elsie Spicer Eells - Fairy Tales From Brazil

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Magick And Hypnosis

2011-01-02T09:46:00.000-08:00

Book: Magick And Hypnosis by Carroll Runyon

In this article the author takes the position that hypnosis is the operative technique of Ceremonial Magick. Visions of Spirits appearing in the Triangle of Art are actually archetypes evoked from the deep-mind via hypnotic induction. As a practicing magician specializing in these methods, he gives an insider’s perspective on how Magick really works.

Download Carroll Runyon's eBook: Magick And Hypnosis
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Five Ways To Celebrate Samhain

2010-12-25T06:32:00.000-08:00

Magick is in the air, and it's important to just let things happen.

Keep good fun thoughts in your mind, with hope for the future. These positive thoughts will turn into Magick energy and be released... that is the power of Samhain!

Here are 5 ways to celebrate Samhain.

1. HONOR THE DEAD

Honoring the dead is one of the best ways to create Magick on Samhain. How do you honor the dead? By remembering them. Think of all the people that have passed on in your life, and don't let their memories fade. Spend some time looking through old photographs. Think deeply about what they were like in life, what did they do... what did they feel? Tell them you miss them. Tell them you love them. Talk about them to friends and family.

2. HAVE A "DUMB" SUPPER

Pick a person (alive or passed away) that has qualities you admire... maybe someone you love and care about that isn't with you. Have dinner as usual, but leave an empty plate for them and "pretend" they are there.

You can either talk to them...ask them how they are doing. Or you can have dinner in complete silence, and think about them deeply. Treat your "guest" with a delicious meal, some good wine, and a tasty dessert. The person you are honoring will feel the energy, and you'll boost your emotional and Magick sources.

3. CARVE A PUMPKIN

Pumpkin carving is a pagan pastime. It actually has it's roots in the belief that carving faces into turnips would keep evil away. Pumpkins work just as well and are easier to carve. Yes, it's fun, and it will also keep any bad luck and negative energy away.

4. FEAST... FEAST... FEAST!

This is one of the best ways to celebrate Samhain because the positive emotions that build up will directly influence the effects of your divinations and rituals. If you have like-minded friends or family, get together and make a feast! There are many special recipes that work wonders for enhancing your Magick...

5. DO YOUR DIVINATIONS

This is the BEST time of the year for seeing what is to come...and don't let it pass by without doing at least one divination ritual. You could do Tarot, Runes, Scrying, Pendulum divination, Tea Reading, and any other divination techniques that resonate with you. It's best to do your divinations AFTER the feast because that's when the energy is at it's peak.

~

Books in PDF format to read:

Aleister Crowley - Little Essays Toward Truth
Correllian Times Emagazine - Issue 26 October 2008 Vol 1 Blessed Samhain
Correllian Times Emagazine - Issue 33 May 2009 Happy Beltane Samhain

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The Liberalia

2010-12-18T11:30:00.000-08:00

" Liberalia (17 March) is the festival of Liber "and his consort Libera. In ancient Roman religion and mythology, Liber ("the free one"), also known as ("the free Father") was a god of viniculture and wine, fertility and freedom. He was a patron deity of Rome's plebeians and was part of their Aventine Triad. His festival of Liberalia became associated with free speech and the rights attached to coming of age. His cult and functions were increasingly associated with Bacchus and his Greek equivalent Dionysus, whose mythologies he came to share.

The Romans celebrated Liberalia with sacrifices, processions, ribald and gauche songs, and masks which were hung on trees.

This feast celebrates the maturation of young boys to manhood. Roman boys, usually at age 14, would remove the a hollow charm of gold or leather, which parents placed about the necks of children to ward off evil spirits.

At the Liberalia ceremony the young men might place the bulla on an altar (with a lock of hair or the stubble of his first shave placed inside) and dedicate it to the Lares, who were gods of the household and family. Mothers often retrieved the discarded and kept it out of superstition.

If the son ever achieved a public triumph, the mother could display the bulla to ward off any evil that might be wished upon the son by envious people. The young men discarded the which was probably derived from Etruscan dress and was decorated with a broad purple border and worn with the bulla, by boys and girls. The boys donned the clothing of adulthood, the pure white or "man's gown". The garment identified him as a citizen of Rome, making him an eligible voter.

The celebration on March 17 was meant to honor Liber Pater, an ancient god of fertility and wine (like Bacchus, the Roman version of the Greek god, Dionysus) is also a vegetation god, responsible for protecting seed. Liber, again like Dionysius, had female priests although Liber's priests were older women.

Wearing wreaths of ivy, the priestesses made special cakes, or libia, of oil and honey which passing devotees would have them sacrifice on their behalf. Over time this feast evolved and included the goddess Libera, Liber Pater's consort, and the feast divided so that Liber governed the male seed and Libera the female.

On the Liberalia it was tradition for women to bake smaller pieces of flatbread or consecrated cake (liba) on outdoor ovens with different ingredients (e.g. eggs, cheese, oil or honey) and hand it to the people who were passing by. Ancient sources speak of a significant variety of recipes, and the tradition has been retained to this day as part of the Holy Week.

In Germany the Liberalia dish is still known as lebkuchen ("leb-cake"), with leb- derived from the Latin libum. In German Christian tradition the lebkuchen used to be consumed during Lent and the Easter season, but today has almost exclusively reversed its meaning and shifted to Christmas and the Advent. Aside from the wafers, real liba are also served in Spain, the traditional torrijas at Easter made of flour, wine and honey.

This ancient Italian ceremony was a "country" or rustic ceremony. The processional featured a large phallus which the devotees carried throughout the countryside to bring the blessing of fertility to the land and the people. The procession and the phallus were meant also to protect the crops from evil. At the end of the procession, a virtuous and respected matron placed a wreath upon the phallus.

Related to the celebration of the Liberalia is the Procession of the Argei, celebrated on March 16 and 17. The Argei were 27 sacred shrines created by the" (very powerful ancient gods who are divine beings without form or face) and found throughout the regions of Rome. However, modern scholars have not discovered their meaning or use.

In the", 30 figures also called" fashioned from rushes into shapes resembling men; later in the year they were tossed into the river(s). The origin of this celebration is not certain, but many scholars feel that it may have been a ritualistic offering meant to appease and praise the Numa and that the 30 argei probably represented the thirty elder Roman curiae, or possibly represented the 30 Latin townships.

Other ancient scholars wrote that the use of the bull-rush icons was meant to deter celebrants from human sacrifice, which was done to honor Saturn. Some historical documents indicate that the" (the sacred places) took their names from the chieftains who came with Hercules, the Argive, to Rome and then occupied the" (Saturnian) Hill. There is no way at present to verify this information, but it does coincide with the belief that Rome was founded by the Pelasgians and the name Argos is linked to that group.

Source: Wikipedia

Books in PDF format to read:

Paul Foster Case - The Life Power
Leo Ruickbie - The Winter Sabbat
Starhwak - The Spiral Dance

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Wicca 101 A New Reference For The Beginner Wiccan Wicca Witchcraft And Paganism

2010-12-06T13:21:00.000-08:00

Book: Wicca 101 A New Reference For The Beginner Wiccan Wicca Witchcraft And Paganism by Kristina Benson

In depth and current overview of the 1st Degree Studies A comprehensive guide for those people who are new to the Wiccan Way! Benson's book discusses what Wicca is and isn't, the five elements, the Wheel of the Year, Magick and spell crafting, ethics, philosophy, scrying, tarot, divination, tools, herbs, gems, and celebration of Wiccan holydays. She touches also on the different types of Wicca, the influence of Eastern ways on Wicca, and the ways in which Christians-and followers of other religions-have viewed this peaceful and oft-misunderstood way of life throughout the ages. The author also discusses the relative merits of practicing alone or with others, and what to expect should the novice attempt to join a coven. The complete beginner will be introduced to what it means to be a Wiccan, and what there is to gain from learning the ways of the ancients.

There are too many words to say How I love this book, its one of my favorites and I highly recommend it for a beginner in the path of wicca, it goes through everything in an easy way to follow..and the best part its not preachy as I found some other books.. its simple , easy and just a good read all in all, and the best part it is a book you will always go back to for a refresher.. I love this book so much I would give it to a fellow wicca friend if I didn't already bind it to my own Book of Shadows.

Find Kristina Benson's book in amazon.com:
Wicca 101 A New Reference For The Beginner Wiccan Wicca Witchcraft And Paganism
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Symptoms And Black Magic Bad Effects

2010-11-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

Identifying the symptoms and bad effects of ghost Pollution.
Continuous illness. All medical treatments fail.
Constant worries, Suicidal tendencies, or Desire to move away from home and family.
Continuous illness of any member of the family.
Tiredness and weakness like M.E.
Eating disorders associated with obesity and anorexia.
Being short tempered. Sterility, without any physical deficiency or without any medical reason.
Repeated miscarriages or death of children.
Sudden unnatural deaths in the family.
Problems in the construction of new houses, new factory or any other building.
Shortness of money, in spite of hard labour.
No desire to live. Feels suffocated. Life seems useless.
Apathy, no desire to rise In Life.
Achievement of objectives seems impossible.
Sudden quarrels between brothers or the members of the family, without any reason.
Unexpected loss in the business of property.
Ill health and under development of children.
Loss of peace due to the fear of enemies and their evil Designs.
Discord between spouses or the family.
Greatest efforts always resulting in failure.
Lack of Govt, favours, promotions and the desired raises or transfers.
Poverty, in spite of hard work.
Mental disorders - Insanity - Craziness.
These are some effects which prove that one is under the spell of the supernatural or black magic.
Even though Intelligent, one still fails to find solutions to such problems.
It is only due to "Black Works" that all your wisdom, all your strategies and all your intelligence fails.

Free e-books (can be downloaded):

Konstantinos - Summoning Spirits The Art Of Magical Evocation
Peter De Abano - Heptameron Or Magical Elements
Jarl Fossum - Seth In The Magical Texts

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Ritual Magick

2010-11-09T23:24:00.000-08:00

RITUAL MAGICK: Magick that calls upon the aid of beneficent spirits and is akin to religion. Ritual Magick is based upon a blend of doctrines of Plato and other Greek philosophers, Oriental mysticism, Judaism and Christianity and currently is divided into three forms: Enochian, Thelemic and Eclectic.

Enochian Magick originated with John Dee and Edward Kelly in the 16th century and communication with spirits involved the Nineteen Calls (or Keys): incantations in the Enchonian language, a complex language of unknown origin. This system of Magick was revived by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and studied at length by Aleister Crowley. In turn, Crowley developed the Thelemic Magick system from his studies and Ritual Magickians have since expanded to develop Eclectic Magick systems based on a variety of different systems, inclusive of Alchemy, Egyptology, Kabbalistic doctrines, Chaos Magick etc..

Ritual Magick requires a rigorous discipline and has an intellectual appeal, the mage derives power from God (the Judeo-Christian God) through the successful control of spirits, usually demons, which are believed easier to control than angels. Demons may be good, evil, or neutral. In its highest sense, Ritual Magick is a transcendental experience that takes the mage into mystical realms and into communication with the Higher Self. Also known as Ceremonial Magick, High Magick, Theurgic Magick, Theurgy.

Free e-books (can be downloaded):

Aleister Crowley - Intro Magick
Aleister Crowley - Ritual Viii

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Nocturne City Book 4 Witch Craft

2010-11-09T03:08:00.000-08:00

Book: Nocturne City Book 4 Witch Craft by Caitlin Kittredge

Someone, or something, is setting fire to the homes of the city’s most infamous non-humans, racking up a body count that’s growing by the day. And strange, otherworldly creatures no one has seen before—selkies trolls and harpies—are causing chaos throughout the city. Racing to stop the carnage, Luna turns to sexy federal agent Will Fagin for help. As they work to uncover the source of the bloodshed, Luna’s attraction for Will deepens. But just as she learns Will’s darkest secret, Nocturne City is thrust into total chaos—leaving Luna and Will in a path of destruction they may not be able to stop…or survive.

Download Caitlin Kittredge's eBook: Nocturne City Book 4 Witch Craft
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The Great Rite In Wicca

2010-11-06T13:33:00.000-07:00

In Wicca, the Great Rite is either ritual sexual intercourse, or else a ritual symbolic representation of sexual intercourse. In the symbolic version the High Priest plunges the athame, or ritual knife, (the male symbol) into a cup or chalice (the female symbol) which is filled with wine and is held by the High Priestess. The Great Rite symbolizes creation in the union of the Maiden Goddess with the Lover God, and thus is also known as a fertility rite.

A variety of ritual occasions call for the Great Rite to be performed, such as during the festival of Beltane on or about May 1 in the northern hemisphere and November 1 in the southern hemisphere. Most often, it is performed by the High Priest and High Priestess, but other members can be elected to perform the Rite.

Books in PDF format to read:

Alexander Roberts - A Treatise Of Witchcraft
Michael Sharp - The Great Awakening
Arthur Edward Waite - The Secret Doctrine In Israel.pdf

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Witching Way Of The Hollow Hill

2010-11-04T09:41:00.000-07:00

Book: Witching Way Of The Hollow Hill by Robin Artisson

I was extremely impressed with this book. So much so that I intend to purchase all of Robin's other works as well. Never before have I encountered an author & teacher who is so "raw" in his telling of the way he sees things. Mr. Artisson does not hold back! This book presents a pagan perspective of Nature, the Land & Fate like we have never seen before in print. The Old Ones, Spirits & Ancestors are presented in a balanced way that reflects the truth about who they are and our relationship to them. Mr. Artisson clearly shows how important and crucial it is to connect to the Land and all who reside within. To "see" that there is so much more truth out there than meets the eyes. Witches are the ones who affect change and our path is both rewarding and difficult beyond belief. Even as Witches & pagans, most of us still only want to see and know what we are comfortable with. The reality is that Nature, in all her magnificence is both beautifully serene and mysteriously terrifying at the same time. Robin presents the balance. The Truth of the matter from a perspective rarely thought about or probably, a perspective many are scared to think about. His book is one Witches view. A way of looking at things so radically different (to some) that it will be uncomfortable for many. We are clearly in a time of great change within the pagan community. Old established "rules" about what Witchcraft is & isn't are being challenged. Many people who fit into the modern, new-age "Wiccan" framework might have a problem with this book. Even old age "Traditional Witches" might have a problem with it. That's okay. To each their own. I know personally I have been introduced to occult subject matter in the past that I did not agree with at the time but have since, many years later, embraced. We like to think that we as pagans & Witches are different and are more open minded than some people of organized faiths. But often times, in reality, we are quite narrow minded in our views. I encourage all Witches & pagans to read this wonderful book with an open mind and allow yourself the possibility of changing your view. Witchcraft is all about change. I don't believe and practice the same as I did 25 years ago. No one does if they are honest about it. That doesn't mean that what I used to believe was wrong. How could it be since it was what shaped who I am now. Remember your past and honor it and set no limits for your future. One of the worst things a Witch can do is become stagnant & static in their thoughts and beliefs. Mr. Artisson's belief's and practices are what's right for him and other like minded Witches in this place and time. For many, following a different road is what's right for them in the here and now. For some that may be eclectic Wicca or for others, Christian inspired Satan worship. Who's to say what's right and wrong and where that thread will lead them in the future. Only Fate knows. This book is about Fate and about traveling the road less traveled. Both darksome & divine, harrowing & holy that it is. I whole-heartedly recommend this book to any Witch who dares to look at their Craft & faith from a different perspective and challenge themselves to go off of the path traveled by so many and to walk the hidden path traveled by so few.

This is a book that acts as a 'traveler's guide' to a hidden country within each human being. Primal peoples all over the world embrace the ideas discussed in this work: the animistic worldview, spiritual communion with the dead and the Unseen World, sorcery and magic.

Author and traditional witch Robin Artisson explores these mystical themes from the perspective of The Old Faiths and pre-Christian metaphysical impulses of Europe and the British Isles. Bringing a new perspective to these ancient practices and making them more accessible, this book is a key to the door that leads into the mythical dimension of each person, and every feature of the sacred landscape. It helps to unlock the hidden wisdom in folklore, shed light on the enigma of the human being, and manifest an experience of the wisdom of the Old Ways- insofar as a book can. This book is about getting out of books and back into the spiritual dimension of the Land itself, and requires considerable dedication and work.

Originally self-published by the author, this is the third edition of this popular book.

Find Robin Artisson's book in amazon.com:
Witching Way Of The Hollow Hill

Suggested ebooks:

Anonymous - Teachings Of The Odin Brotherhood
Howard Phillips Lovecraft - The Tree On The Hill
Aleister Crowley - The Mass Of The Phoenix

Having A Bad Day

2010-11-03T14:37:00.000-07:00

Grab your calendar and mark the days!

Here we have a list of the 56 Unfortunate days of the year:

JANUARY:

7 days: 3, 4, 6, 13, 14, 20, 21.

FEBRUARY:

7 days: 3, 7, 9, 12, 16, 17, 23.

MARCH:

8 days: 1, 2, 5, 8, 12, 16, 28, 29.

APRIL:

2 days: 24, 25.

MAY:

5 days: 17, 20, 27, 29, 30.

JUNE:

8 days: 1, 5, 6, 9, 12, 16, 18, 24.

JULY:

4 days: 3, 10, 17, 18.

AUGUST:

2 days: 15, 20.

SEPTEMBER:

2 days: 9, 16.

OCTOBER:

6 days: 4, 9, 11, 17, 27, 31.

NOVEMBER:

4 days: 3, 9, 10, 21.

DECEMBER:

2 days: 14, 21.

Found in:

Encyclopaedia of Superstitions, Folklore, and the Occult Sciences

Books in PDF format to read:

Aleister Crowley - Which Things Are An Allegory
Emmanuel Swedenborg - Heaven And Hell

Tags: pagan personal transformation steps wiccans history speaking gospel witches christian wicca centered religions book witch craft gospel witches issue october correspondences liber annie eriksson

Four Elements Invocations

2010-11-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

The old Gods are walking tonight-
I feel the wind of their passing,
I feel the ripples of their crossing,
I feel the tremors of their tread,
In the fire's heart I see them dance.

Mother Goddess,
Father God-
Caress me with your Airs,
Cleanse me with your Waters,
Nourish me with your Earth,
Forge me with your Fire.

Your child I am-
to You I aspire.
Be welcome here, guard and hallow
this, my sacred space.

Free e-books (can be downloaded):

Aleister Crowley - The Supreme Ritual The Invocation Of Horus
Aleister Crowley - Invocation
John Dee - Tabula Bonorum Angelorum Invocationes

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The Complete Book Of Incense Oils And Brews

2010-10-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Book: The Complete Book Of Incense Oils And Brews by Scott Cunningham

This is one of my favorite books by Scott Cunningham. He explores so many different methods of magickal creation that there is something for everyone and more. Scott Cunningham's contributions to the occult make him one of the most important spiritual people of the last century. His books on Wicca have gently, lovingly, and thoroughly introduced more people to Witchcraft than just about anyone else.
But while Wicca was his spiritual path, it was natural magic that revealed his deep understanding and broad knowledge of herbs and their magical powers. His books on these subjects have become the de facto sources for all sorts of magical people. Already, The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews (an expanded and rewritten version of The Magic of Incenses, Oils and Brews) is owned by over 150,00 readers. You should own it, too.

One of the secrets of real magic is that it is controlled by the mind. The more things in your ritual to help your mind associate with your goal, the more powerful your ritual may be. Colored candles, scented oils, natural incenses, and more all add to the impact of the magic you wish to do. But how do you know which incense to burn? Is it possible to add scented oils together to get a more powerful oil? And how do you make your own, appropriately-scented tools? The answers to questions like these and hundreds more can be found in The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews by world-famous author Scott Cunningham. This is a greatly expanded and rewritten version of The Magic of Incenses, Oils and Brews. It includes over 100 new formulas, proportions for each element of the recipes (the most requested feature from his previous book), how to substitute ingredients, and much more. Besides the formulas, it also includes the exact methods of making all of these scented tools, including how to extract the essences from the herbs.

Today, there are two major trends in magic: natural and ceremonial. They have different methodologies to get the same results. Neither is better, they are just different. The "best" one is whatever you can successfully use. But there is an interesting thing about these two systems: They both use incenses; they both use scented oils; they both use scented baths and magical teas. That makes this book applicable to any system of magic you may follow!

Besides giving the formulas for hundreds of the scented magical tools, Scott also reveals how you can easily make substitutions in the formulas. In this way, even if you are out of a particular herb to use as you compound your own incenses, oils, powders, and so forth, you will still be able to make magic.
Yes, you will find recipes for scents to use when doing magic for initiations, love, exorcisms, money, health, talismans, elemental energies, astrological energies and for many of the goddesses and gods. But by studying this book you will be able to develop your own, unique recipes and formulas. You will understand how these herbs really work.
And that, my friends, is real magic!

Each one of the formulas is precise and easy to make. Do you need luck? Take 2 parts vetivert, 2 parts allspice, 1 part nutmeg, and 1 part calamus, grind them together as finely as possible, then sprinkle the powder in a circle around you, beginning and ending in the East and moving clockwise. Sit within this circle and absorb the powder's energies. Also included are other ways to use magical powders that will have you coming up with your own ideas for them, too. There is a legion of recipes for incenses. There are three for the sun and two for consecrating talismans. There are incenses for each of the astrological signs and ones to help you study better and gain success. You'll also find incenses for each of the planetary influences. There are four for Saturn alone! This compendium of magical lore is a vital tool for every magical person on any magical path, whether you are a beginner or an expert.

If you want to learn more about making your own incense, brews, potions, powders, inks, soaps, tinctures, oils, herbal baths,etc., YOU MUST BUY THIS BOOK. Each section is informative and full of recipies, explanations, suggestions, and warnings. The chapter on substitution is excellent and the charts and appendixes are helpful as well. The book's tone is more instructional rather than spiritual, especially compared to Cunningham's other books. If you are looking for in-depth information about magical herbs and oils, I highly recommend reading Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs and The Magic of Aromatherapy in addition to The Complete Book of Incense, Oils, and Brews.

Find Scott Cunningham's book in amazon.com:
The Complete Book Of Incense Oils And Brews
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A Treatise Of Witchcraft

2010-10-31T18:49:00.000-07:00

Book: A Treatise Of Witchcraft by Alexander Roberts

I find the idea of rating an historical publication like Alexandr Roberts' A Treatise of Witchcraft difficult, so I have opted not to do so. However, the content itself is very interesting. In his 1620 writing Roberts moves through a series of topics related to witchcraft: he begins by insisting that witches are real (and references historical sources like The Odyssey and the Bible as support), and then outlines exactly why witchcraft is to be abhorred by the Christian community. Roberts speaks of the spiritual salvation of witches (which would ideally come just before their execution), defends the sentencing of witches, and details a specific example of witchcraft that occasioned the writing of his Treatise. The discussion of the contemporary case was intriguing, but I found Roberts' focus on gender roles particularly interesting. Throughout the text he assures his readers that not all witches are women, but he then goes on to explain why women are more susceptible to the Devil, and why the majority of magic Practitioners are therefore women. As you can imagine, Roberts references everything from Eve to physical differences to an inclination towards the passionate as reasons why women are more likely to fall into Satan's grasp.

While the ideas presented would be familiar to anyone with even a passing knowledge of Witchcraft Trials, Roberts' treatise makes for a clear and forward primary source for the discussion of the occult.

Download Alexander Roberts's eBook: A Treatise Of Witchcraft

Downloadable books (free):

Michael Harrison - The Roots Of Witchcraft
George Lyman Kittredge - Notes On Witchcraft
Allen Greenfield - A True History Of Witchcraft
Alexander Roberts - A Treatise Of Witchcraft

Festival Of The Boundary Markers

2010-10-31T09:58:00.000-07:00

Termini in Roman mythology began as boundary markers between wilderness settings. The termini were rural boundary stones marking property lines between fields and neighbors. There was an annual ceremony each 23rd day of February called the Terminalia when first fruits were offered and libations of oil and honey were poured over the termini to renew the power or forces within the boundary stones between properties. Ovid presents the story as follows

When night has passed, let the god be celebrated

With customary honour, who separates the fields with his sign.

Terminus, whether a stone or a stump buried in the earth,

You have been a god since ancient times.

You are crowned from either side by two landowners,

Who bring two garlands and two cakes in offering.

An altar's made: here the farmer's wife herself

Brings coals from the warm hearth on a broken pot.

The old man cuts wood and piles the logs with skill,

And works at setting branches in the solid earth.

Then he nurses the first flames with dry bark,

While a boy stands by and holds the wide basket.

When he's thrown grain three times into the fire

The little daughter offers the sliced honeycombs.

Others carry wine: part of each is offered to the flames:

The crowd, dressed in white, watch silently.

Terminus, at the boundary, is sprinkled with lamb's blood,

And doesn't grumble when a sucking pig is granted him.

Neighbours gather sincerely, and hold a feast,

And sing your praises, sacred Terminus:

'You set bounds to peoples, cities, great kingdoms:

Without you every field would be disputed... These rural termini and feast of landmarks had their state counterpart in Terminus. The story told by Ovid about the sacred boundary stone which stood, in the temple of the Capitoline Jupiter, continues:

What happened when the new Capitol was built?

The whole throng of gods yielded to Jupiter and made room:

But as the ancients tell, Terminus remained in the shrine

Where he was found, and shares the temple with great Jupiter.

Even now there's a small hole in the temple roof,

So he can see nothing above him but stars.

Since then, Terminus, you've not been free to wander:

Stay there, in the place where you've been put,

And yield not an inch to your neighbour's prayers...

Ovid, Fasti Vol II

Source: Stephanie Pope

Books in PDF format to read:

Jean Seznec - Survival Of The Pagan Gods
Anonymous - Meditation Of The Four Magickal Weapons
Carroll Runyon - The Secret Of The Dark Mirror

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Solstice Story

2010-10-22T11:55:00.000-07:00

There was the snow, and the snow fell from the heavens, slowly, thoughtful and deliberate, silent contemplation of a million spirits, crystalline and filled with logic, diversity infinite, and yet, each one did come to bless the child.

There was the night, and she was quiet, she was holy, as all nights are, and even when the nights were dancing, loud and full of whirling stars and northern lights performed for all to see or no-one there at all, and winds rush treetops and they tell their tales of night, of all the nights, and know so much, foreshadow even more...

There was the lake, and it was frozen deep and mirror smooth and mirror still, slow water, sleeping water, perhaps it dreams of spring or it may simply rest and think, and gather wisdom of each other, and of time...

There was a thought, a very special wind arose and it could only be right here, right now, and it came softly, lightly, it exhaled the finest mist of white, creates the forms and functions, sculptures in a living dance, they flow and they touch everything, reach into everything, make the connections, make something new, now hush and listen, for the time of magic is upon us, it is nearly here...

There was the child, it stepped in light and whitest shine into this night, and here, the snow did kiss its face, did kiss its hair, and laid itself beneath its feet to be a carpet, be a path, a path that leads in all directions, where you walk, there it becomes.

The night began to sing, so quietly, so full of admiration; the stars awoke and paid attention, sent their light and love to touch the child; the lake became the mirror for it all as now the wind did breathe the future into being and then the child began to smile - his welcome was the holiness, and holiness did enter into all the land touched by his light, it filled the world with hope, with beauty of a different order, the new, the unexpected, a newborn star of purest light.

And there I was, and there were you, and always, ever, always new, there is the snow for us, there is the night, there is the lake, there is wind, and always new, there is the child.

Source: SFX Solstice 2009

Books in PDF format to read:

Aleister Crowley - Alice An Adultery
Tuesday Lobsang Rampa - The Rampa Story

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Sword And Athame

2010-10-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

The sword, or a ritual knife known as an athame, is often used in Wiccan ritual. In Gardnerian Wicca these are associated with the element of air. In other traditions, these are associated with fire, the element of the will.

The athame is traditionally a black-handled knife, and Gardner described it as "the true Witch's weapon" in the book of shadows, something for which he has been criticised by Frederic Lamond, who believes that there should be no "weapons" in Wicca. The athame is used to cast a magic circle, and to control spirits.

The term "athame" in its modern spelling is unique to Wicca, but originates from words found in two historical copies of the Key of Solomon, though was not included in Macgregor Mathers' published version. One version, currently held in the Biblioteque de l'Arsenal, Paris, uses the term "arthame" to describe a black handled knife. This was adopted by C.J.S Thompson in his 1927 book The Mysteries and Secrets of Magic and by Grillot de Givry, in his 1931 Book Witchcraft, Magic and Alchemy. The historian Ronald Hutton theorised that Gardner got it either directly or indirectly from one of these sources, although changed the spelling. The athame is usually enscribed on the handle, sometimes in the Theban alphabet.

What is the Athame used for? The athame's primary use is to direct energy; if things such as herbs or cords need to be cut, another knife called a boline - a white-handled knife - is used. An exception is the "kitchen witchcraft" philosophy, which actively encourages the use of magical tools for mundane purposes to increase the witch's familiarity with them.

An athame may be employed in the demarcation of the Magic circle rite. As a masculine principle, it is often used in combination with the chalice, as feminine principle, evoking the act of procreation, as a symbol of universal creativity. This is a symbol of the Great Rite in Wiccan rituals. Some Modern Witchcraft traditions may prefer not to use iron blades, instead preferring alternatives such as copper, bronze or wood. This is most common amongst traditions that have a particular fondness of the Sidhe, to whom iron is supposedly harmful.

Downloadable books (free):

Stephen William Hawking - Space And Time Warps
Sepharial - Astrology And Marriage
Anonymous - Asatru And The Paranormal
Aleister Crowley - The Star And The Garter

Overview Of Day Of The Dead

2010-10-14T12:23:00.000-07:00

The Day of the Dead (El D'ia de los Muertos in Spanish) is a Mexican and Mexican-American celebration of deceased ancestors which occurs on November 1 and November 2, coinciding with the similar Roman Catholic celebrations of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

While it is primarily viewed as a Mexican holiday, it is also celebrated in communities in the United States with large populations of Mexican-Americans, and to a lesser extent elsewhere in Latin America.

Despite the morbid subject matter, this holiday is celebrated joyfully, and though it occurs at the same time as Halloween, All Saints' Day, and All Souls' Day, the mood of The Day of the Dead is much lighter, with the emphasis on celebrating and honoring the lives of the deceased, rather than fearing evil or malevolent spirits.

HISTORY OF DAY OF THE DEAD

The origins of the celebration of The Day of the Dead in Mexico can be traced back to the indigenous peoples of Latin America, such as the Aztecs, Mayans Purepecha, Nahua and Totonac.

Rituals celebrating the lives of dead ancestors had been performed by these Mesoamerican civilizations for at least 3,000 years. It was common practice to keep skulls as trophies and display them during rituals to symbolize death and rebirth.

The festival which was to become El D'ia de los Muertos fell on the ninth month of the Aztec Solar Calendar, near the start of August, and was celebrated for the entire month. Festivities were presided over by the goddess Mictecacihuatl, known as the "Lady of the Dead". The festivities were dedicated to the celebration of children and the lives of dead relatives.

When the Spanish Conquistadors arrived in Central America in the 15th century they were appalled at the indigenous pagan practices, and in an attempt to convert the locals to Catholicism moved the popular festival to the beginning of November to coincide with the Catholic All Saints and All Souls days. All Saints' Day is the day after Halloween, which was in turn based on the earlier pagan ritual of Samhain, the Celtic day and feast of the dead. The Spanish combined their custom of Halloween with the similar Mesoamerican festival, creating The Day of the Dead.

DAY OF THE DEAD TRIVIA

The souls of children are believed to return first on November 1, with adult spirits following on November 2.

Plans for the festival are made throughout the year, including gathering the goods that will be offered to the dead. During the period of October 31 and November 2 families usually clean and decorate the graves. Some wealthier families build altars in their homes, but most simply visit the cemeteries where their loved ones are buried and decorate their graves with ofrendas, or offerings. These include:

* wreaths of marigold, which are thought to attract the souls of the dead toward the offerings
* toys brought for dead children (los angelitos, or little angels)
* bottles of tequila, mezcal, pulque or atole for adults.

Ofrendas are also put in homes, usually with foods and beverages dedicated to the deceased, some people believe the spirits of the deceased eat the spirit of the food, so after the festivity, they eat the food from the ofrendas, but think it lacks nutritional value.

In some parts of Mexico, like Mixquic, people spend all night beside the graves of their relatives.

Those gifted, like to write "calaveras", these are little poems that mock epitaphs of friends. Newspapers dedicate "Calaveras" to public figures, with cartoons of skeletons. Theatrical presentations of "Don Juan Tenorio" by Jos'e Zorrilla (1817-1893) are also traditional on this day.

A common symbol of the holiday is the skull, which celebrants represent in masks called calacas. Sugar skulls, inscribed with the names of the deceased on the forehead, are often eaten by a relative or friend. Other special foods for El D'ia de los Muertos includes Pan de Muertos (bread of the dead), a sweet egg bread made in many shapes, from plain rounds to skulls and rabbits.

Source: Wikipedia

Books in PDF format to read:

Lady Galadriel - The New Book Of The Law
Howard Phillips Lovecraft - Poetry Of The Gods
Aengor - Origin Of The Names Of The Days

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Fallacy Of Ghosts Dreams And Omens With Stories Of Witchcraft Life In Death And Monomania

2010-10-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

Book: Fallacy Of Ghosts Dreams And Omens With Stories Of Witchcraft Life In Death And Monomania by Charles Ollier

Publisher: C. Ollier Publication date: 1848 Subjects: Occultism Supernatural Ghosts Dreams Hallucinations and illusions History / General Juvenile Fiction / Horror

Download Charles Ollier's eBook: Fallacy Of Ghosts Dreams And Omens With Stories Of Witchcraft Life In Death And Monomania

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Summers Montague - The History Of Witchcraft And Demonology
Wallace Notestein - A History Of Witchcraft In England From 1558 To1718
David Webster - A Collection Of Rare And Curious Tracts On Witchcraft And The Second Sight
Charles Ollier - Fallacy Of Ghosts Dreams And Omens With Stories Of Witchcraft Life In Death And Monomania

Wiccan Handfasting

2010-10-10T23:55:00.000-07:00

Handfasting is another celebration held by Wiccans, and is the commonly used term for their weddings. Some Wiccans observe the practice of a trial marriage for a year and a day, which some Traditions hold should be contracted on Lammas (Lughnasadh), as this was the traditional time for trial, "Telltown marriages" among the Irish. A common marriage vow in Wicca is "for as long as love lasts" instead of the traditional Christian "till death do us part". The first ever known Wiccan wedding ceremony took part in 1960 amongst the Bricket Wood coven, between Frederic Lamond and his first wife, Gillian.

Downloadable books (free):

Gabor Klaniczay - Witchcraft Mythologies And Persecutions
Prentiss Tucker - In The Land Of The Living Dead
Anonymous - Witchcraft Dictionary
Marcus Cordey - Magical Theory And Tradition
Jaroslav Nemec - Witchcraft And Medicine

The Circle Within Creating A Wiccan Spiritual Tradition

2010-10-10T19:22:00.000-07:00

Book: The Circle Within Creating A Wiccan Spiritual Tradition by Dianne Sylvan

The Circle Within is your guide to creating a personal Spiritual Practice for daily life. The first section is a thoughtful examination of Wiccan ethics and philosophy that explores how to truly live Wicca. The second section includes devotional prayers and rituals that provide inspiration for group or solitary practice.

Topics include: cultivating an ongoing personal relationship with deity, ethics and standards of behavior, concepts of sacred space, elements of a daily practice, tuning into the Wheel of the Year and the elements, and creating meaningful personal rituals. Move beyond the basics of Wicca and enter the sacred space of the circle within.

I've never written a review for Amazon.com, but had to do one for this book. I came across Dianne's website some time ago & was intrigued with her way of looking at Wicca. When I found out she'd published a book, I tracked it down & was even more profoundly moved by her observations. This is a woman who will make you THINK. There are many books I've read About Witchcraft & Wicca. Plenty of info on tools, quarter calls, the gods/goddesses, etc. But I found something missing in most of them. The most basic, essential thing of all: relationship with the Divine & how it affects your life on a very basic level. There were times during this book where I had to stop & say, "YES! YES!" Cheers for Ms. Sylvan for having the heart & drive to write this book & get it out to the public.

Also, I have to say that the litergy in this book is some of the most beautiful I have ever read. The chapter titled "The Book of Moonlight" is going to be used often in my practices.

Dianne Sylvan (Austin, TX) has been a practicing Wiccan since the age of sixteen. She is co-founder and President of Blessedways, a Wiccan educational and spiritual organization based out of Central Texas. Through Blessedways she teaches classes on Wicca, the Runes, spiritual magic, and ecstatic dance.

In addition to her books, Dianne's work has appeared in Circle Magazine, NewWitch magazine, and the Llewellyn Wicca Almanac and Witches' Calendar; she has also been interviewed by the Wiccan Pagan Times. More of her articles on living Wiccan spirituality can be found on her website, Dancing Down the Moon.

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Old Naumkeag An Historical Sketch Of The City Of Salem

2010-10-10T18:34:00.000-07:00

Book: Old Naumkeag An Historical Sketch Of The City Of Salem by Charles Webber

"Old Naumkeag" appears to be a work which will greatly interest the readers of the present day. The researches of Felt, Bentley, and others, embody much of what is known of the topography and ancient history of Salem and vicinity; but the compilers of this work appear not only to have adduced other facts gathered from authentic sources, but also to have presented them in a most attractive manner. Looking back over the days of our ancestors we cannot but admire the virtues and wisdom that carried them through the bitter disappointments and sufferings incident to a pioneer people. The history of Salem from the early days of Conant and Endicott, down to the present time, is replete with incidents of the most thrilling character.

The aim of the authors of "OLD NAUMKEAG" has been ocly to write an "historical sketch" of that portion of Essex County originally known as Naumkeag, but now divided into the city of Salem, and the towns of Marblehead, Peabody, Danvers, Beverly, Manchester, "Wenham, Topsfleld and Middleton; giving brief accounts of the more interesting events in the history of each, and descriptions of the places of interest to the stranger and to the native. The whole territory is replete with historical associations, and dotted with land-marks of the past—buildings or localities directly associated with some of the most important events in the history of America. To these shrines of antiquity, whose shadows lengthen and deepen with each departing year, come, annually, thousands of strangers ; while the young are growing up in our midst nearly as ignorant of their historic surroundings as the stranger is. We have neither guides nor guide-books, nor local histories such as the visitor seeks. The most valuable of our local works are now almost if not quite out of print; such as are not, are rare and costly. Eealiziug this, the authors have sought to prepare a work which should in some measure supply the want. At the same time, it has been so extended, we trust, as to make it interesting and useful to our own citizens. The young reader, it is hoped, will find information as well as entertainment; and the more ad vanced in life, find pleasure in retracing steps, leading back to the days of their youth, reviviug recollections and associations ever dear, at the same time affording valuable information concerning their ancestry.

We make no special claims to originality of material. On the contrary, we acknowledge our indebtedness, for most of the facts embodied in this work, to the antiquarians, living and dead, from the Rev. John Fiske, and the Eev. John Higginson, down to the present. We have searched the voluminous collections and writings of these painstaking recorders of the past and endeavored to present, in a popular shape, such portions of them as are of the greatest interest at the present time. Limited space precludes the publication of very much more which is of deep interest. With more time and space the book could have been made better. Such as it is we submit it to the public, asking only that all should bear in mind that (Charles Webber)

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Charles Webber - Old Naumkeag An Historical Sketch Of The City Of Salem

Her Hidden Children The Rise Of Wicca And Paganism In America

2010-10-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

Book: Her Hidden Children The Rise Of Wicca And Paganism In America by Chas Clifton

I found this book among many in my local bookstore and purchased it on the fact that the cover was eerily close to a vision in a dream I had over a year ago. I have never been happier to have had such a dream! This book, I found, was completely amazing.

While many books on Paganism focus on practice, perhaps a few focusing on philosophy, very few focus on any actual scholarship. This specific book focuses on the history of contemporary Paganism, from Gerald Gardner to more modern influential groups, such as the Church of All Worlds. The depths the author, Mr. Chas S. Clifton, provides for anyone interested in history and Pagan academia runs deeps.

Since the release of Ronald Hutton's "Triumph of The Moon" back in 2000, I have yearned for a book that would take an in-depth look at the history of modern Paganism in America. So I was more than a little excited and hopeful when I heard that Pagan academic Chas Clifton was rising to the task in his new book "Her Hidden Children: The Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America". Finally a book that would take a look at how modern Paganism and Wicca took root in American soil and became one of the fastest growing faiths in the country.

Clifton - knowing that he could in no way cover everything that has happened from the 1930s to the present - has chosen with this book to lay down some basic parameters for talking about modern Pagan history in America. First he concentrates on Wicca: it being the largest and most influential modern Pagan religion in America. Secondly, when moving out from Wicca he generally stays with groups that claim to follow "nature" or "earth" religions. Not getting much attention in this history are the "reconstructionist" Pagan faiths and feminist Wicca.

The author begins with examining Gerald Gardner and the beginning of British Wicca, looking at both Gardner's claims of a long-line of witches and historical evidence to this claim. Following this, the author discusses how Wicca came to America and how it spread.

The second chapter focuses on the change of Wicca from a Mystery Religion to a "nature" religion. The author brings to use the idea that Wicca combined a triple-form of nature, ranging from the Cosmic, Natural (Earthly), and Erotic. He shows us how Wicca became changed through the changing social changes affecting America during this time.

Throughout the rest of the book, Mr. Clifton shows his readers the struggles and effects Wicca has had in America (such as, for example, the effort to change the image of the popular "Witch), the influence Paganism has had in Popular Culture (and vice versa), and a look at other Pagan groups that have influenced Paganism on a whole (which may, or may not, have started before Wicca).

If one is interested in the history of Paganism, specifically Wicca, this is a great book to sate that interest. This book is a wonderful example of Pagan scholarship so needed in the Pagan community. I highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to be a Pagan, claiming to be a Pagan, or vaguely interested in knowing about Pagans.

Find Chas Clifton's book in amazon.com:
Her Hidden Children The Rise Of Wicca And Paganism In America

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Checklist For A Well Working Group

2010-10-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

1. We are clear about our goals and how we intend to achieve them.
2. We know and respect each other well enough to feel very comfortable and attuned working together.
3. Our magick is ethical, designed for our growth and fulfillment and the benefit of those who request help, and never used to harm others.
4. We share the responsibilities of making the group work; every individual's
contribution is important.
5. We see each other socially outside the group, and support each other through difficulties.
6. We enjoy. There is fun and laughter at our meetings.
7. We work at Learning magick. We dig deep, compare different sources, try new techniques, ask pointed questions, do it until we get it right.
8. We keep ourselves healthy and fit in order to more readily channel power and receive insight.
9. We keep our Ritual Area and tools orderly and clean.
10. We constantly seek Knowledge From many sources -- people, books, workshops, other paths...
11. We do not make a virtue of authority and obedience, but treat each other as respected equals (regardless of the formal structure of the coven).

We raise genuine power and channel it; our rituals are not tame readings or rote gestures, but filled with energy, vitality, will and purpose.

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Lectures On Witchcraft Comprising A History Of The Delusion In Salem In 1692

2010-10-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

Book: Lectures On Witchcraft Comprising A History Of The Delusion In Salem In 1692 by Charles Wentworth Upham

The following Lectures were originally prepared for delivery in the Salem Lyceum. They have been repeated before similar associations in Marblehead, in Beverly, in South Danvers, in North Danvers, in Waltham, in Gloucester, in Haverhill, in Lynn, and in Topsfield. A large part of what appears in this volume, was necessarily omitted in the delivery. Several considerations, in co-operation with requests made from various quarters, both in public and in private, have induced the author to offer them to the community at large through the press.

The subject of which they treat is intimately connected with the history, not merely of New England, but of the imagination of man, as it has been developed in various regions and ages. Very inadequate and unjust views are entertained of the scene in our annals, which they illustrate, and of the persons who acted or suffered in that scene. The principal inducement, however, to give them a permanent circulation, is a conviction that the facts they relate, and the reflections they naturally suggest, are full of the most important instruction. No one, it is thought, can ponder upon them without receiving useful lessons to guide and influence him with reference to the cultivation and government of his own moral and intellectual faculties, and to the obligations that press upon him as a member of society to do what he may to enlighten, rectify and control public sentiment. In the hope that they may contribute, in combination with the great variety of other means now employed, to diffuse the blessings of knowledge, to check the prevalence of fanaticism, to accelerate the decay of superstition, to prevent an unrestrained exercise of imagination and passion in the individual or in societies of men, and to establish the effectual dominion of true religion and sound philosophy, they are now presented to the public.

Download Charles Wentworth Upham's eBook: Lectures On Witchcraft Comprising A History Of The Delusion In Salem In 1692

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Charles Wentworth Upham - Lectures On Witchcraft Comprising A History Of The Delusion In Salem In 1692

Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca

2010-10-09T14:34:00.000-07:00

Book: Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca by Bylaws

The Unicorn Tradition is an eclectic one, rooted in a family tradition through which our founders, Lady Galadriel and Lord Athanor, received their training and Initiations.

Goddess and God are honored as essential to the sacred dance we call life, and as emanations of the One Source from which the universe is created. We are a working and teaching tradition which celebrates the Eight Sabbats (solar festivals), the New Moons, and the Full Moons. We are an initiatory mystery tradition, with a five level, three degree system of training and attainment. Common beliefs and practices unite our family, so that no individual trained in one branch of the Unicorn Tradition should ever feel a stranger among those other branches.

As you explore our home on the web, you will get a sense of who we are. You will find information about our founders and some of the core teachings that unite us. You’ll get to know our Elders, Priests and Priestesses as well as connect with the groups that practice our lineage. Writings by our members can be found in the library and portals to interesting information can be found in links and Recommended reading.

Download Bylaws's eBook: Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca

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Bylaws - Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca

Leadership In A Mixed Coven

2010-10-09T06:45:00.000-07:00

COVEN OFFICES

Leadership in a mixed coven:

1. High Priestess - Coordinates ritual leadership, counseling, teaching, and
administration duties, in company with the High Priest. Chief representative
of the Goddess energies at rituals. Badge of office: crescent Moon crown or
coronet of candles.

2. High Priest - See above. Chief representative of the God energies at
rituals. Badge of office: horned headdress or animal mask.

3. Maiden - Understudy to the High Priestess, and substitutes for her when
necessary. Badge of office may be a simple silver circlet or tiara.

4. Summoner - Understudy to the High Priest, who substitutes for him when
necessary. Main administrative deputy, passing out information, collecting
dues, letting people know when to meet and what to bring, etc. Also Called the
"Man in Black," "Black Rod," or "Verdelet." Badge of office may be a
blackthorn staff.

Leadership in an all-woman's coven:

One pattern: No hierarchy or titles at all: ritual leadership rotates, other
jobs are carried out by anyone capable and willing.

Another pattern:

1. Maiden - Understudy to the Mother, and chief administrative deputy (see
Summoner's duties above)

2. Mother - Coordinates ritual leadership and administration, guides coven
projects and activities. She does not necessarily do these jobs herself always,
but has the responsibility to see that they are apportioned fairly and done
effectively.

3. Crone - Chief counselor to the Mother, and does a large share of teaching
and individual counseling. May perform divination on questions of concern to
the coven. Possibly a former "Mother" or High Priestess, experienced and
skilled in magick, herbalism, etc.

For both mixed and single-sex coven:

Council of Elders - A gathering of all the higher-rank initiates in the coven.
They may function as advisors to the coven leaders, or may actually set policy,
establish the budget etc. In the latter case, coven leaders are essentially
executives responsible to the Elders.

Other possible officers in mixed or single-sex covens:

1. Scribe (secretary) - Keeps minutes of business meetings, handles
correspondence under the direction of coven leaders.

2. Pursewarden (treasurer) - collects dues, keeps accounts, makes
purchases, coordinates fund-raising projects.

3. Archivist (historian) - Keeps the coven book of shadows or "Witch Book" up
to date, keeps files of coven projects and activities, rituals. These
functions may be combined with the Scribe's job.

4. Bard (music director) - Collects songs and chants, leads the coven in
them, provides musical accompaniment; collects ballads and legends,
preserves the old lore and coven history in original songs.

5. Watchman (sergeant-at-arms) - Assists in initiation rituals; in charge of
safety & security at meetings and rituals. Indoors, checks locks and closes
curtains; outdoors, finds safe places for rituals and posts sentries to
warn off strangers approaching. Sets wards and arranges other magickal
protection. Knows laws regarding freedom of religion and assembly,
trespass ordinances etc.

6. Mistress-of, Master-of- (resource persons and teachers) - Any individual
who has achieved great competency in a magickal skill may earn this title. They
serve as a resource for the coven, and teach others. An initiate may choose to
apprentice with any Mistress or Master. Fields:

* Divinatory Arts (or sub-category, such as Tarot, Astrology, I Ching,
Lithomony, Dreamcraft, Scrying, Radiesthesia etc.)

* Herbalism (for healing, amulets/talismans, oils, incense)

* Healing Arts (including herbal healing, psychic healing, aromatherapy, Bach
remedies, polarity balancing, healing with stones, color therapy, chakras
etc.)

* Familiar Arts (magickal work with animals, totems, elementals, shapeshifting)

* Talismanic Arts (designing & creating talismans & amulets)

* Ritual Toolcraft (designing & creating ritual tools)

* Runecraft (use of magickal alphabets)

* Necromancy (communication with, or evocation of, the dead)

* Psychic Skills (astral travel, telepathy, telempathy, clairvoyance,
clairaudience, telekinesis, teleportation)

* Incantation (Words of Power, charms, chants, mantras)

* Fascination (trancework, hypnosis)

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A Book Of Pagan Prayer

2010-10-03T19:23:00.005-07:00

Book: A Book Of Pagan Prayer by Ceisiwr Serith

Pagan Prayers and MoreBilling itself as the one and only collection of prayers for Pagans of any tradition, Ceisiwr Serith's A Book of pagan Prayer includes prayers to Celtic, Egyptian, Zoroastrian and other deities. It is organized thematically, making it convenient to use if one is seeking prayers for specific occasions, seasons, times of day, meals or milestones.

In this book, the reader is taken on a tour of not only the forms of prayer, but the reasons behind them. Numerous examples are given, giving the reader the option to use those that appeal to them straight out of the book, or to write their own based upon the forms demonstrated. In a market deluged with fluffy "How To's", this book is a delightful breath of fresh air. Rather than rehashing the same tired information over again, Mr. Serith focuses on helping the reader either begin or strengthen their relationship with the divine, regardless of which deity or deities the reader feels drawn to. Groundbreaking, and an easy and enjoyable read to boot.

No matter what manner of Pagan you are, you will be pleased by this little book. Its handy size, tasteful dark green cover and easy-to-read typeface makes it a pleasure to hold and read. When you get through admiring the outside of the book, there are many treasures inside. There is a thorough discussion on the topic of prayer, why we pray, who we pray to, and how to compose a good prayer. Even if you think there is nothing new that can be said about the subject of prayer, you will think differently when you read this book. A Book of Pagan Prayer also contains a wealth of prayers suitable for many different occasions and events, beautifully and thoughtfully written. The best thing about the book, however, is that it will inspire you to compose some prayers of your own, and use them in your own worship and rituals. Dare I call this book an instant classic? I think I dare! You will enjoy the author's intelligent and gentle style throughout the prayer book. Spontaneous prayer is admirable, but a well-composed written prayer has goodness too, as this small book will teach you. Get two, so you will have one to give away.

Buy Ceisiwr Serith's book: A Book Of Pagan Prayer

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The Witchcraft Trial In Moscow

2010-10-03T19:23:00.003-07:00

Book: The Witchcraft Trial In Moscow by Friedrich Adler

I predict that Behind the Moscow Trial will stand not only as a brilliant attempt to clarify the conftirm status of this particular trial, but also as a land in intelligent political pamphleteering in the American labor and revolutionary movement. I know of no other such w^ork w^ritten by an American in my time to match it for clarity, force, intelligence, and logic (JAMES T. FARRELL.)

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Witchcraft Mythologies And Persecutions

2010-10-03T19:23:00.001-07:00

Book: Witchcraft Mythologies And Persecutions by Gabor Klaniczay

Witchcraft Mythologies and Persecutions (Volume III Of Series "Demons, Spirits, Witches")
This third, concluding volume of the series publishes 14 studies and the transcription of a round-table discussion on Carlo Ginzburg’s Ecstasies. The themes of the previous two volumes, Communicating with the Spirits, and Christian Demonology and Popular Mythology, are further expanded here both as regards their interdisciplinary approach and the wide range of regional comparisons. While the emphasis of the second volume was on current popular belief and folklore as seen in the context of the historical sources on demonology, this volume approaches its subject from the point of view of historical anthropology. The greatest recent advances of witchcraft research occurred recently in two fields: (1) deciphering the variety of myths and the complexity of historical processes which lead to the formation of the witches’ Sabbath, (2) the micro-historical analysis of the social, religious, legal and cultural milieu where witchcraft accusations and persecutions developed. These two themes are completed by some further insights into the folklore of the concerned regions which still carries the traces of the traumatic historical memories of witchcraft persecutions.

Contents
Introduction by Gabor Klaniczay and Eva Pocs Mythologies Martine Ostorero, The Concept of the Witches’ Sabbath in the Alpine Region (1430–1440) Text and Context; Round-table discussion on Ecstasies by Carlo Ginzburg (with the participation of Wolfgang Behringer, Carlo Ginzburg, Gustav Henningsen, Gabor Klaniczay, Giovanni Pizza and Eva Pocs) Gabor Klaniczay: Learned Systems and Popular Narratives of Vision and Bewitchment; Adelina Angusheva: Late Medieval Witch Mythologies in the Balkans; Per Sorlin: Child-Witches and the Construction of the Witches' Sabbath: The Swedish Blakulla Story; Legal mechanisms, social contexts Peter Toth G.: River Ordeal–Trial by Water–Swimming of Witches: Procedures of Ordeal in Witchcraft Trials; Ildiko Kristof: How to Make a (Legal) Pact with the Devil? Legal Customs and Literacy in Witch Confessions in Early Modern Hungary; Anna Brzezinska: Healing at the Jagiellonian Court; Polina Melik Simonian: Following the Traces of Xenophobia in Muscovite Witchcraft Investigation Records; Judit Kis-Halas: Trial of an Honest Citizen, Nagybanya 1704–5: The social and cultural context of witchcraft accusations - a tentative microanalysis; Daniel Ryan: Boundaries and Transgressions: Witchcraft and Community Conflict in Estonia During the Late Nineteenth Century; Witchcraft and folklore Francisco Vaz da Silva, Extraordinary Children, Werewolves and Witches in Portuguese Folk-Tradition; Ulo Valk, Reflections of Folk Belief and Legends at the Witch Trials of Estonia; Iveta Todorova-Pirgova: Witches and Priests in the Bulgarian Village: Past and Present; Mirjam Mencej: Witchcraft in Eastern Slovenia

Buy Gabor Klaniczay's book: Witchcraft Mythologies And Persecutions

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Magical Revival Occultism And The Culture Of Regeneration In Britain 1880 To 1929

2010-10-03T01:33:00.001-07:00

Book: Magical Revival Occultism And The Culture Of Regeneration In Britain 1880 To 1929 by Jennifer Walters

This thesis is a cultural study of the Magical Revival that occurred in Britain, 1880-1929. Magical Revival denotes a period in the history of occultism, and the cultural history of Britain, during which an upsurge in interest in occult and magical ideas is marked by the emergence of newly-formed societies dedicated to the exploration of the occult, and into its bearing on life. Organisations discussed are the Theosophical Society, the Golden Dawn, and the less well known Astrum Argentum. ‘Magical Revival’ has further significance as the principal, but overlooked, aim of those societies and individuals was regeneration.

Scholarship on late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century occultism is influenced by a longstanding preference for the esoteric over the exoteric aspects of occultism. It has tended to emphasise themes of abstraction, the psychological, and the esoteric, and has promulgated a view of occultism as static and impervious. From the outset, however, this thesis argues that approaching the Magical Revival from the purview of the esoteric is limiting, and that it screens its own significant themes and affinities with mainstream culture. It suggests that what needs to be prepared is a study which reads occultism with a close attention to its own terms of engagement and description. This is the aim of this thesis.

The thesis offers a way of reading the occult activity of the period that privileges its exotericism. It seeks to pursue the links between an identifiable culture of occultism and conventional cultural discourses and activities towards an understanding of the movement as one actively constituting itself and producing, rather than obscuring, knowledge in relation to the social and cultural moment from which it arose. The occult topics and tendencies identified include evolution; Ceremonial Magic and astral travel; the body in occultism; and the nature of the occult experience. Others include the life and medical sciences; the philosophy of religion; and physical culture. The following questions underpin the thesis: In what ways did the Magical Revival connect with contemporary concerns? What does its activities, written records, literary and other material productions reveal about the nature of those connections? What does a closer attention to the textual and lived culture of the Magical Revival contribute to existing understanding of its place in late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century culture?

In answering those questions the thesis proposes that, in its systematic identification and addressing of cultural and social needs, general and specific, the Magical Revival should be viewed as closer to the social mainstream than is presently appreciated. Moreover, that the occultists’ efforts towards individual and cultural regeneration, take place within a broader cultural movement away from social thought dominated by degeneration, towards thinking directed towards regeneration.

Download Jennifer Walters's eBook: Magical Revival Occultism And The Culture Of Regeneration In Britain 1880 To 1929

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Jennifer Walters - Magical Revival Occultism And The Culture Of Regeneration In Britain 1880 To 1929

White Magic Spells

2010-10-03T01:32:00.003-07:00

Book: White Magic Spells by Anonymous

White magic spells are always a must-have for any new witch, and you can find them for pretty much anything. This section is dedicated to white magic, but the truth is that there is no real reason to divide spells up this way. The differences between black and white magic spells are not as important as what is in your own heart when you are casting them. So the page of white magick spells isn't going to be different from the regular Witchcraft Spells page.

Download Anonymous's eBook: White Magic Spells

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My Quest For The Magic Divine

2010-10-03T01:32:00.001-07:00

Where does one begin the quest for the Ultimate? More importantly, when can one finally end it in fulfillment? I have struggled with these questions for all my relatively short life. I have always felt as though some transcendent force were tapping me on the shoulder, demanding my attention. Yet whenever I looked over my shoulder nothing tangible was there to greet me. What could I do, what path could I follow, that would lead me to the mysterious entity who so earnestly desired an audience with me?

I was born and raised in something of a Bible-Belt area. Churches of one type or another dominated the countryside. The different world religions, as far as I could discern, were Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, and Catholic. We even had Mennonite and Amish in the general area. It was a veritable smorgasbord of Christian denominations and none of them ever satisfied me. I simply could not feel a connection to the Divine under their auspices. Spending my Sunday morning sitting in a pew, singing hymns to some executed carpenter from another time and place was not my idea of worship. Christ may have been an exceptional man in his day, but to me he was as dead as Julius Caesar.

Thus it was I ruled out Christianity as the vehicle that could deliver me to the Divine. From there it was a logical step to further exclude Judaism and Islam; they both pledged fealty to the same God as the Christians, a God whom I always considered too distant and aloof to worship. With the Middle East religions offering no inspiration, I studied the ancient wisdoms of the Far East. I found them much more invigorating and broad minded than Monotheism, but I still could not internalize their beliefs as my own. Buddhism tried teaching me that my own sense of uniqueness was an illusion, something I simply could not accept. Hinduism was colorful but not very focused, offering the believer far too many deities to choose as a patron. Taoism and Confucianism were on the whole fine philosophies, but they offered no insight on the Divine force that I still felt earnestly tapping me on the shoulder.

I was a year out of college and still left without a spiritual clue. It was then, however, that the Neopagan craze began penetrating into even my remote neck of the woods. I would walk into any bookstore and the New Age section was constantly expanding. I would surf the web for information on religion and eventually bump into a Wicca site. I decided to ascertain for myself just what all the fuss was about. At first it seemed kooky; people were trying to resurrect witchcraft and ancient nature worship? Surely this was the work of people with too much free time and too many acid trips.

The more I read, however, the more I became enthralled. I always loved noting the beauty of nature around me since my earliest years. The sun, moon and stars were ever-constant companions in my life in a way God had not been. What better deity could one have then Mother Earth herself, with nature and all the creatures that dwell within as her universal church? Here, finally, was a religion I could appreciate. Nature is something I need no external inspiration in revering; it comes naturally. Neopaganism, unlike most religions, embraces modern existence with all its recent discoveries in science, psychology, and social ethics. When I discovered this, I could safely say that I had found the worldview I had been seeking. I had come home.

Whatever happened to the man tapping me at my shoulder? That was the most startling discovery of all. I had been looking for some external force I thought had been hiding from me, which I would meet only after some arduous journey. Instead I have discovered the Divine is all around me, it is inside of me. It encompasses all of creation. It was always there right in front of me, trying to say hello. I was prepared to take the journey of a thousand miles to meet my maker; now I am learning to swim in an endless ocean of creation.

Does Neopaganism satiate all my cravings for understanding and happiness? Does it provide me with all the answers to the questions I have been asking for years? No, it does not. However, what Neopaganism does offer me is a light to guide my way as I continue to progress on my spiritual journey. It is one huge leap in the right direction. Neopaganism may not be the end of my quest for the Divine, but it is, at long last, a worthy beginning.

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Magical Tools Used In The Wicca Religion

2010-10-02T19:23:00.005-07:00

In the neopagan religion of Wicca, a range of magical tools are used in ritual practice. Each of these tools has different uses and associations, and are used primarily to direct energies. They are used at an altar, inside a magic circle.

In traditional Gardnerian Wicca, the tools are often divided into personal tools, which are for use by, and owned by, an individual Wiccan, and coven tools, used collectively by the coven. This practice may derive partly from Masonic traditions (such as the use of the Square and Compasses), from which Wicca draws some material, and partly from the rituals of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. The latter made much use of material from Medieval Grimoires such as the Key of Solomon, which has many illustrations of magical tools and instructions for their preparation. In Wicca, ritual tools are used during rituals which both honour the deities, and work magic. The general idea is that the tool directs psychic energies to perform a certain action.

Wiccan tools are usually only used by their owner (or, in the case of coven tools, by the coven as a group), to ensure that they only carry their owner's spiritual vibrations.

In Gardnerian Wicca, as layed down by Gerald Gardner, someone who had been initiated in the 1st degree had to create (or, alternately purchase and then engrave) their own ritual tools. One of the requirements for being initiated for the 2nd degree is that the Wiccan had to name all of the ritual tools and explain what their purpose and associations were.

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Pagan Christianity Exploring The Roots Of Our Church Practices

2010-10-02T19:23:00.003-07:00

Book: Pagan Christianity Exploring The Roots Of Our Church Practices by Frank Viola

Have you ever wondered why we Christians do what we do for church every Sunday morning? Why do we "dress up" for church? Why does the pastor preach a sermon each week? Why do we have pews, steeples, choirs, and seminaries? This volume reveals the startling truth: most of what Christians do in present-day churches is not rooted in the New Testament, but in pagan culture and rituals developed long after the death of the apostles. Coauthors Frank Viola and George Barna support their thesis with compelling historical evidence in the first-ever book to document the full story of modern Christian church practices.

"Frank Viola and George Barna have teamed up to create an intelligent, readable, and yet challenging work about the historical roots of the many unbiblical modern church practices that hinder Christian growth in quality and church growth in quantity. Anyone who reads Pagan Christianity with an open mind and heart will never see the church the same way again. May those with newly-gained spiritual eyes not stop there, but go on to do something about it."
Rad Zdero, Ph.D., Author of "The Global House Church Movement" and Editor of "Nexus: The World House Church Movement Reader."

"Frank has done a masterful job both researching and then weaving together the threads that have made modern church practices what they are - pagan substitutes for authentic church life. One nice thing about PAGAN CHRISTIANITY is that it provides the history behind a perception that many of us Christians share: The way the modern Western church does things has little to do with the organic life we see in the New Testament. The difference is so great sometimes that one wonders how one could possibly have transmuted into the other."
Hal Miller, author of "Christian Community: Biblical or Optional?"

"This is an important book which demonstrates that many of the practical aspects of contemporary church life, ministry and structure have little or no biblical basis and are, in fact, inspired by a wide variety of non Christian patterns and ideas most of which are inimical to Christian life and growth. Many readers will find this book challenging in the extreme but all who are concerned with the future of the church should read it."
Dave Norrington, Lecturer of religious studies at Blackpool and the Fylde College, author of "To Preach or Not to Preach."

Download Frank Viola's eBook: Pagan Christianity Exploring The Roots Of Our Church Practices

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A Version Of The Wiccan Rede

2010-10-02T19:23:00.001-07:00

We belief that sharing as much as we knew about the Rede would be helpful as well as checking out what others know. This is not a version of the Rede we use, as we follow the simpler one, but this is an interesting and enlightening poem. Blessed be

Bide the wiccan Laws we must
In Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.
Live and let live.
Fairly take and fairly give.
Cast the Circle thrice about
To keep the evil spirits out.
To bind the spell every time
Let the spell be spake in rhyme.
Soft of eye and light of touch,
Speak little, listen much.
Deosil go by the waxing moon,
Chanting out the Witches' Rune.
Widdershins go by the waning moon,
Chanting out the baneful rune.
When the Lady's moon is new,
Kiss the hand to her, times two.
When the moon rides at her peak,
Then your heart's desire seek,
Heed the North wind's mighty gale,
Lock the door and drop the sail.
When the wind comes from the South,
Love will kiss thee on the mouth.
When the wind blows from the West,
Departed souls will have no rest.
When the wind blows from the East,
Expect the new and set the feast.
Nine woods in the cauldron go,
Burn them fast and burn them slow.
Elder be the Lady's tree,
Burn it not or cursed you'll be.
When the Wheel begins to turn,
Let the Beltane fires burn.
When the Wheel has turned to Yule,
Light the log and the Horned One rules.
Heed ye Flower, Bush and Tree,
By the Lady, blessed be.
Where the rippling waters go,
Cast a stone and truth you'll know.
When ye have a true need,
Hearken not to others' greed.
With a fool no season spend,
Lest ye be counted as his friend.
Merry meet and merry part,
Bright the cheeks and warm the heart.
Mind the Threefold Law you should,
Three times bad and three times good.
When misfortune is enow,
Wear the blue star on thy brow.
True in Love ever be,
Lest thy lover's false to thee.
Eight words The Wiccan Rede fulfill:
An ye harm none, do what ye will.

We would love to have your version or a link to the Rede, especially if you have one that has been passed down from person to person. Hope you enjoy!

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Is Wicca Really Supported By The Us Taxpayers

2010-10-02T16:51:00.005-07:00

It is not obvious exactly why people believes that Wicca (a.k.a. Witchcraft) and other minority religions are taxpayer-funded. In fact, a case can be made for the reverse: Wiccan soldiers are probably funded to a lesser degree than are Roman Catholics, Protestants and Jews.

Large armed forces bases frequently have one or more Protestant ministers, Roman Catholic priests, and a Jewish rabbis on staff. The military usually pays clergy salaries, provides chaplains with offices and support staff, etc. Fort Hood has 42,000 military personnel and 96 chaplains. Assuming that each chaplain (with office staff) costs a $75,000 per year, the government allocates $171 per year for the spiritual support of each Christian or Jewish soldier. But there are no Wiccan Priests, Priestesses, or chaplain office at Fort Hood. Wiccans are expected to fend for themselves, and provide their own priests and priestesses from within their own membership. (One reader reports that there is a major concentration of Wiccans in the army stationed in Germany that are served by a Neopagan Priestess.) The cost per Wiccan for spiritual support in Fort Hood is essentially nil.

Some news sources stated that the Army had increased security at Fort Hood "in order to deter members of Christian groups from intimidating the witches, who meet in campgrounds..." 9 The army would certainly incur costs due to this increased security. Perhaps a bit of gas would be used by some military police vehicles while they protected the Wiccans. Probably a few sheets of paper would be consumed by the MPs while preparing reports. MPs are not paid overtime, so there would be no increased cost due to salaries. The total cost of protection would be minimal. These trivial costs are not the fault of the Wiccans. They are caused by perceived danger due to local religious intolerance by a minority of Christians.

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Yule Celebrations In Sweden

2010-10-02T16:51:00.003-07:00

Yule or Yule-tide is a winter festival that was initially celebrated by the historical Germanic peoples as a pagan religious festival, though it was later absorbed into, and equated with, the Christian festival of Christmas. The festival was originally celebrated from late December to early January on a date determined by the lunar Germanic calendar. The festival was placed on December 25 when the Christian calendar (Julian calendar) was adopted. Some historians claim that the celebration is connected to the Wild Hunt or was influenced by Saturnalia, the Roman winter festival.

Terms with an etymological equivalent to “Yule” are still used in the Nordic Countries for the Christian Christmas, but also for other religious holidays of the season. In modern times this has gradually led to a more secular tradition under the same name as Christmas. Yule is also used to a lesser extent in English-speaking countries to refer to Christmas. Customs such as the Yule log, Yule goat, Yule boar, Yule singing, and others stem from Yule. In modern times, Yule is observed as a cultural festival and also with religious rites by some Christians and by some Neopagans.

As in many other countries in northern Europe Jultomten brings presents on julafton (“Yule Eve”), December 24, the day generally thought of as the main jul day. Many Swedes watch Kalle Anka och hans vanner (lit. Donald Duck and his friends), a compilation of Disney shorts broadcast at 3pm.

Almost all Swedish families celebrate with a julbord, which traditionally includes julskinka (baked ham), sill (pickled herring), janssons frestelse, and a collection of meatballs, sausages, meats and pates. The julbord is traditionally served with beer, julmust, mumma (a mix of beer, liquor and svagdricka) and snaps. The dishes vary throughout the country. Businesses invite staff to a julbord dinner or lunch in preceding weeks, and people go privately to restaurants offering julbord during December. Swedes also enjoy glogg (mulled wine with raisins and almonds). Gifts are distributed either by Jultomten (usually from a sack) or from under the Christmas tree. In older days a julbock (yule goat, still used in Finland called Joulupukki) was an alternative to Jultomten; now it is used as an ornament, ranging in size from 10 cm to huge constructions like the Gavle goat. The following day some people attend a julotta and even more venture to the movies, as December 25 is a day of big premieres.

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Willow The Wiccan

2010-10-02T16:51:00.001-07:00

Willow's worldview is called Wicca, which is a loosely organized set of beliefs that are rooted in mystical traditions, including but not limited to Celtic or Norse paganism, Greek and Roman goddess worship, ancient Egyptian spirituality, Eastern Shamanism, or even Native American spiritual practices, depending on the group. Willow was attracted to Wicca because of the strong connection she felt with the world around her and in particular with nature. Willow is generally tolerant of other religions, but she does not welcome anyone trying to 'convert' her.

What Willow Believes? Willow and other Wiccans vary in their beliefs, but the majority of them would hold to the eight beliefs listed below:

* Everyone has the divine (or goddess) within, and everyone has a 'life-force'.
* One should develop natural gifts for divination or occult magic (often spelled 'magick' by occultists.)
* Divine forces or nature spirits are invoked in rituals.
* The Goddess, as either a symbol or a real entity, is the focus of worship.
* Nature and the earth are sacred manifestations of the Goddess.
* Everyone has his or her own individual spiritual path to follow.
* Rituals and celebrations are linked to the seasons and moon phases.
* Meditation, visualization, invocation (calling on forces or gods/goddesses), chanting, burning candles and special rituals trigger a sense of the mystical, which typically reinforces their core belief system.

Things to Remember

* Like Tara the Typical, Willow is extremely sensitive toward anything that sounds intolerant and/or judgmental, so approach with extreme caution! As well, she sees Christianity as an oppressive religion, so be sure and show her love and respect.
* Ask Willow what she believes about Christianity, because she might have a distorted image of what Christianity is. Try and use this as an opportunity to help her develop a correct understanding of true Christianity.
* Don't confuse Wiccans with witches, because anyone can practice witchcraft, but Wiccans follow a strict code. Also, don't confuse Wiccans with Satanists, because most Wiccans don't believe in Satan or the devil.
* Outline the strengths and reliability of the Bible (accuracy, consistency, fulfilled prophecy, etc.) because Willow rejects it as unreliable.
* Stress your personal relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ and what impact that has on your daily life.
* Whether Willow knows it or not, she is in the grips of Satan, so like Sid the Satanist, be sure and cover your relationship and conversations with her in a ton of prayer.

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Pendulums And Dowsing

2010-10-02T16:37:00.005-07:00

Using Pendulums also known as Dowsing..... are great way to get answers you need without having to go a Psychic or having to use the Ouija Board which takes 2 people to work good. Yes, with the Pendulum you will be able to do it all by yourself. Plus you can take one with you anywhere at any time of the day and get the answers you need. Pendulums work by tapping into your Higher Self or “I Am Presence” as it is also know. Dowsing has been around for many Centuries.
Yes... used for divination purposes to foretell the Future and long ago it was used to divine guilt in trials. Thank God they don't use that system anymore.
Now there are other forms of Dowsing such as using Metal "L" shaped Rods or a Forked "Y" shaped branch. This methods were used for finding water or gems. It is also used to find spirit Energies in a house and for that I have used the Metal "L" shaped Rods. We are not going to get into that right now. We are going to focus on Pendulums and their use for getting answers.

A Pendulum does not have to be purchased. Times are heard right now and if you don't have the money you can make one with just a ring at the end of a string. You don't even have to have the fancy Pendulum Board. You can just use your hand as I do many times. I do use a nice Black Onyx Pendulum…. but I use my hand underneath it instead of an Answer Board. But I am in the process of making a nice wooden Answer Board.

This is all very simple. As you know... I try to put things in the simplest terms for people to understand. So many Books use big fancy words and a bunch of mumbo jumbo bullshit philosophy crap that means nothing to most people. So let get started....
Here's how it works. Take your Pendulum by the string or chain (what ever it is attached to) and you will hold it still and ask it a question. If it swings or rotates one way that is yes. If it swings or rotates the other way… it's no. That's the simple version of this.
Now I’ll break it down a little better for you. You now wanna know which way is yes and which way is no…. right?

Here's what you do. Hold the Pendulum in you dominant hand. Put your other hand as I do a few inches below the Pendulum. Keep it still and say…. “Show which is yes”. Then wait to see how it swings. It may swing back and forth as mine does or it may swing in a circular motion in one direction. Both which are shown below. Which ever it does… that will be “yes”. Then ask “Show which is no”. However it swings… that will be “no”. There… now you. What ever you do… don't try to make it swing. Let it work it's self.

ow…. You can get fancy and buy a Pendulum Kit that has everything you need…. the Pendulum, the Answer Board and probably a book explaining the same thing I am telling you. Or you can buy a fancy Pendulum made out Crystal or Hematite or Black Onyx or many other different type stones, gems or metals like me..... anything you desire. Then you can make you own Answer Board. It can be drawn on a piece of paper or painted on a nice piece of wood or even carved into the wood. Like shown below. Using this type of set up will work only with the Pendulum swinging in a back and forth motion. But that is ok, your Higher Self knows this and will use the proper motion.

So... maybe some of you want to buy a fancy Pendulum or Kit that has everything you need... then your ready to go! There are some really cool ones here...!

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Cleansing And Purifying Your House With Sage

2010-10-02T16:37:00.003-07:00

Sage is a wonderful herb that is not only good for cooking and Alternative Medicines but has great spiritual benefits. There are so many types of Sage out there but we are only going to discuss 1 typea the White Sage (Salvia Apiana) used for Smudge Sticks.

There is also the Diviners Sage (Salvia Divinorum) which is a Hallucinogenica but we wont get into that since our wonderful Government has made in illegal now in many states. Welcome to the Control System just like organized Religion!

This is perfect for getting rid of Foul Spirits or Negative Energy in your house. This is good to do after using the Ouija Board or Conjuring Spirits. Perhaps someone such as a neighbor or enemy whose energy you do not like has come into your house. Use this method to get rid of that energy!
To cleanse and Purify your house you will definitely use the entire Smudge Stick. You will be doing this on the inside of your house. Start at the front door and take the stick and wave it as if you were drawing an imaginary line around the shape of the door. Go in a clockwise motion. Then draw a straight line across the wall till you come to the first window. Then draw the shape of the window just like the door. Once again proceed to draw another straight line till you come to the next window and do the same. Continue this process around the whole house till you come back to the front doora. and don?t forget closet doors too. Now some people are anal about how they do this and they like to get every nook and cranny. I mean they get the base boards and the edge where the wall meets the ceiling. They even do inside the closets. This is all a matter of preference. You can make the call on that yourself as to how much effort you wish to put into this Ritual. As you are going around the house with your Smudge Sticka. Say out louda.. oAny and all Spirits and Energies that are not of the Light be gone, for you are not welcome here!o When you are donea place your Smudge Stick in something that will not catch fire. As I mentioned before I use a miniature Black Cauldron. I also place it with the burning end down so that it continues to burn effectively.

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Pagan Potions Brew Magic Formula

2010-10-02T16:37:00.001-07:00

Book: Pagan Potions Brew Magic Formula by Al Selden Leif

Potions are used in Pagan and wiccan spells and rituals for health and inner magic. Potions act as liquid carriers for magical power. Sometimes you will drink them, but more often they are applied to the skin. Purifying Sage Spray is one example of this type of potion.

Potions can charm, heal or cast a wicked spell. In strict terms, perfumes are potions, designed to lure someone into a love snare. "Boil, boil! Toil and trouble." Even Shakespeare paid homage to the magic art of potion-making. But potions do more than implement spells. Potions are used to treat every kind of ailment (think about fizzy Alka Seltzer). Potions are a part of ancient herb lore and reveal the staying power of some of the "old ways," even if some ingredients (porcupine quills!) are difficult to obtain.

Download Al Selden Leif's eBook: Pagan Potions Brew Magic Formula

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How To Prepare Yourself For A Wiccan Ritual

2010-10-02T12:59:00.000-07:00

To a Wiccan, ritual is a reverent undertaking. Unlike prayer or spontaneous acts of devotion, a ritual is a planned event for formal worship. The place in which rituals are held, as well as all the supplies placed on the altar, are cleansed and consecrated in preparation for the sacred act. When preparing your tools and space for Wiccan ritual, you should not overlook the preparation of the most important element: yourself.

- Prepare your space and altar early. Give yourself enough time between setting up and the start of the ritual to spiritually cleanse and prepare yourself.
- Take a bath or a shower. Add an herbal sachet and a handful of salt to the bath water, or sprinkle some salt and essential oils onto your wash cloth. Burn candles or incense in the bathroom as well to set the mood.
- Relax as you lie or stand in the water. One of the easiest ways to relax is to sit still and clear your mind of any thoughts, and focus on your breathing for a few minutes. Let your mundane worries slip away while you live in the moment, remembering the breath of life is all that's really important at any given moment.
- Envision the water absorbing and washing away negative energy from your body it away. Step out of the tub and dry off. Get dressed (unless you plan to be nude, known as skyclad), do your hair, put on make up or don your ritual jewelry to get physically ready.
- Center yourself just before your ritual begins. If you are holding a group Wiccan ritual, invite everyone to do this so you can align your energies. Sit quietly and breathe rhythmically. Envision your energy in and around your body. It might look like a cloud in your mind, or like sparks and flashes. However you envision it, imagine yourself pulling it all in to the center of your being, just at the base of your spine.
- Envision some of your energy reaching down, going down through the ground, through any foundation or firmament, deep into the Earth, like a root to tap the energy of the Earth.
- Envision some of your energy reaching up, through the ceiling, through the sky, up through the atmosphere, into space to draw down the energy of the universe.
- Anoint yourself, and any other participants, with oils to consecrate yourself for Wiccan ritual, and you are ready to begin.

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George Robert Stowe Mead - Echoes From The Gnosis Vol Vi A Mithriac Ritual
Austin Osman Spare - The Book Of Pleasure Or Self Love

Tags: sleep circle form coven physician witchcraft druids fairies ride generation witchcraft magic connecting firefly wiccan correspondences week witchcraft superstitious science hidden satanic book viking scandinavia

Cleansing And Purifying Your Magickal Tools With Sage

2010-09-30T19:23:00.005-07:00

Yes you should always cleanse and purify your Magickal Tools. especially if one of your friends with their curiosity has handled them. This will get rid of their energy that they may have put forth on them. You only want to have your energy into your Magickal Tools. You should also use it to cleanse and purify your Alter and your Crystals. Simply light the Smudge Stick and hold it in one hand and take the Magickal Tool in the other hand. Wave the Smudge Stick around the Tool cleansing and purifying ita. imagining all the unwanted energy leaving it and pure white light entering it. If you?re going to do thisa. go ahead and do all your tools and crystals and such. I know I have to do this because my Alter is out in the open and one of my friends or family will come by and always touch or pick up something on my Alter out of their own curiosity. You can?t blame them. If I was mainstream thinking and went to someone's house and saw these thingsa. I would want to touch them too. Curiosity killed the cat!

Sage is a wonderful herb that is not only good for cooking and Alternative Medicines but has great spiritual benefits. There are so many types of Sage out there but we are only going to discuss 1 typea the White Sage (Salvia Apiana) used for Smudge Sticks.

There is also the Diviners Sage (Salvia Divinorum) which is a Hallucinogenica but we wont get into that since our wonderful Government has made in illegal now in many states. Welcome to the Control System just like organized Religion!

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Full Moon Ritual Group

2010-09-30T19:23:00.003-07:00

Book: Full Moon Ritual Group by Anonymous

The Esbat takes place on the nights of the New Moon and the nights of the Full Moon. On these nights, the coven usually does any kind of magical work and business they need to. It is enacted, hopefully every Full Moon.

Set up: Place a candle in each of the four cardinal directions.Lay the rest of the tools on the altar cloth or near it. The altar can be on the ground, a table, a rock or a stump. The altar should be in the center or just North of center of the Circle. Light the six candles and the incense, start the music and begin the ritual.

Download Anonymous's eBook: Full Moon Ritual Group

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Pagan Germany

2010-09-30T19:23:00.001-07:00

Book: Pagan Germany by Anonymous

It is a well-known fact that Heathens and Pagans face considerable difficulties in Germany. Everything even remotely connected with Paganism in general and any reference to Teutonic culture or history in particular is instantly identified with an ultra-right-wing political attitude or even Neo-Nazism of the vilest sort. So, in spite of religious freedom being a part of the German constitution, Pagans and Heathens have to cope with severe social restrictions. Most choose to live "secret lives", taking care not be identified with their religion because they want to keep their jobs, have a chance applying for an apartment and walk
the streets without being mobbed and harassed. Others drift towards the fringes of society, where the real Neo-Nazi groups and the witchhunters of the extreme left, the so-called "Antifa", wait for them.

In the last years, the situation has improved mostly because of the activity of the Rabenclan (Raven Clan), an all-Pagan organization. Rabenclan cooperates with the Nornirs Aett, an Asatru group that initiated this project. The Ariosophy Project is dedicated to explore and explain the still existing and once (until the mid-nineties) dominating role of real right wing and fascist groups and ideologies in the German Pagan scene. The solving of this problem is evidently crucial, and
everybody who is not of their ilk of course agrees that racism, Nazism, authoritarian structures and totalitarian systems are an anathema to Paganism and Heathendom, which are, to make a very simple but important point, about freedom.

Download Anonymous's eBook: Pagan Germany

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Historical And Literary Studies Pagan Jewish And Christian

2010-09-29T19:23:00.005-07:00

Book: Historical And Literary Studies Pagan Jewish And Christian by Adolph Von Menzel

Bruce M Metzger is one of the best and brightest stars in biblical scholarship. Why hasn't someone reissued all his books?

This one is especially valuable for the chapter titled "When Did Scribes Begin To Use Writing Desks?" No, I am not kidding. This is actually chock full of important information, especially for anyone interested in Christian studies.

Let me explain. Ever read any of the Jesus-was-a-myth books? One of the standard charges these writers make is that there are very few examples of anyone quoting from the gospels or Paul's letters until quite late. Why?

As it turns out, there are very, very few quotations of any kind, in any kind of writing, secular or Christian. And the reason is simple enough: the papyrus roll. First, it was simply difficult to find the text you wanted in a papyrus roll.

The second reason is the way a papyrus roll was read. And that brings me back to Metzger's very absorbing and detailed explanation of what we know about how readers and scribes used papyrus rolls. From every picture we have, as well as from descriptions, it appears rolls were not read at desks. Ever. Instead, a man would sit cross-legged on the ground, or else hold the rolls in one hand while he read.

No wonder exact quotes were rare until the codex came into use.

Download Adolph Von Menzel's eBook: Historical And Literary Studies Pagan Jewish And Christian

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Adolph Von Menzel - Historical And Literary Studies Pagan Jewish And Christian

Wicca Tools Used In Magic Rituals

2010-09-29T19:23:00.003-07:00

The Wiccan practice usually includes a special set of magical tools. These may include a knife called an athame, a wand, a pentacle and a chalice, but other tools include a broomstick known as a besom, a cauldron, candles, incense and a curved blade known as a boline. An altar is usually present in the circle, on which ritual tools are placed and representations of the God and the Goddess may be displayed. Before entering the circle, some traditions fast for the day, and/or ritually bathe. After a ritual has finished, the God, Goddess and Guardians are thanked and the circle is closed.

A more sensationalised aspect of Wicca, particularly in Gardnerian Wicca, is the traditional practice of working in the nude, also known as skyclad. This practice seemingly derives from a line in Aradia, Charles Leland's supposed record of Italian witchcraft. Skyclad working is mostly the province of Initiatory Wiccans, who are outnumbered by the less strictly observant Eclectics. When they work clothed, wiccans may wear robes with cords tied around the waist, "Renaissance-faire"-type clothing or normal street clothes. Each full moon, and in some cases a new moon, is marked with a ritual called an Esbat.

When practising magic and casting spells, as well as when celebrating various festivals, Wiccans use a variety of rituals. In typical rites, the coven or solitary assembles inside a ritually cast and purified magic circle.

Casting the circle may involve the invocation of the "Guardians" of the cardinal points, alongside their respective classical element; Air, Fire, Water and Earth. Once the circle is cast, a seasonal ritual may be performed, prayers to the God and Goddess are said, and spells are sometimes worked.

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Greg Wotton - Basic Theories On Sex Magic
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Pagan Spells Mix Of Spells

2010-09-29T19:23:00.001-07:00

Book: Pagan Spells Mix Of Spells by Al Selden Leif

Spells are simply rituals used to perform magic. As discussed in Using Magic, the particular ritual is only part of what makes magic work. It can, however, be a very important part. rituals help to focus your mind on your goals. Certain items can help to focus the mind in particular directions. By combining particular rituals with particular objects, you can virtually force your mind to focus in the direction you desire.

Buy Al Selden Leif's book: Pagan Spells Mix Of Spells

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Welcome To Occult Community

2010-09-29T10:20:00.003-07:00

The “occult” community is an almost meaningless term denoting the vast numbers of Neo-Pagans, traditional “practitioners,” ceremonial magicians, root workers, card readers, Vitki, Bokurs, exorcists, Brujas, Witches, Warlocks and all the other people who delve into the practice of magic. As America in particular and the West in general has become more accepting of these practices they have become almost mainstream and indeed in the case of Wicca, crystal workings and other practices they have become less part of the “occult’ and more a part of the watered down “New Age” movement that is the bane of true practitioners.

For the past few years I have seen that proficiency in magical practice, familiarity with the literature of the occult and the ability to discern legitimate rituals and techniques from online role playing and media inspired fads disturbingly rare. Today’s “Witch” is more likely to be familiar with organic vegan recipes than the recipe for making the love philters. Today’s Magician will be more apt to sulkily skip dinner and rail on the Internet about a person who has crossed them than resort to the infamous Black Fast. More people have read Twilight in our so-called community than have read Elizabeth Butler’s excellent introduction to the history of Western Magicians Ritual Magic.

When you do find people who claim to have actually practiced some form of the Art you’ll get wild tales of lightning bolts, levitation, or long-winded explanations about how “everything you do” is magic. And that’s if they believe at all; I’ve had more than one self-described Witch tell me rituals and spells didn’t work.

There was a time, my friends, when that Fraternity of Night called to a select few who, through painstaking research, long hours of studying and experimentation and the will to follow the path least tread, accumulate a few jealously guarded and (more importantly) effective spells that ended up scribbled in a journal and perhaps, if we were lucky, passed to trusted friends. But our own secretive nature and elitist mentality has created several new generations of unguided, unfocused and uninformed practitioners who do little but imperil themselves and those around them. For all our complaints it is we older generations, smug and separate, who have created the New Age by not being involved in it. Spell and Ritual is my small way of making up for the lack of leadership many of us have shown.

This will not be a place for moralizing, political debate or personal attacks. Spell and Ritual will only deal with the mechanics of magic and the literature you should be familiar with. Some of what we will be posting will be academic in origin, as this is an essential piece of a practitioner’s education which many people have missed out on. One cannot understand Necromancy, for example, if you are unfamiliar with the long history of Necromancy in Western civilization which is mainly preserved by classical scholars.

Spell and Ritual will not tolerate racism, sexism or any other -ism. There has been a movement among some young Witches to claim the African diaspora traditions (like Voodoo, Santeria, etc) are “evil” and there is quite a bit of bigotry experienced by Christian practitioners of the Arts. This is not acceptable here. Likewise, since I was very young, there has been considerable pressure put on male Witches (even non-Wiccans) to refrain from using the term Warlock. I myself prefer the term but this will not be open for debate. How people describe themselves and their practice will be respected here. That includes those that practice the Left Hand Path. We are not here to debate what is right and wrong, only what does and does not work.

Spell and Ritual is in the process of actively soliciting spells and rituals that people can verify as working, and we are glad to promote books, services, or Web sites that will be of interest to practitioners.

As a quick aside, I have always found the use of “Magick” instead of magic a bit pretentious. It irks me, but if you must, feel free.

This site will be, I hope, a resource for everyone. Please leave your politics and pettiness at the door and use this site to discuss and learn the Mysteries.

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Raymond Buckland - Bucklands Book For Spirit Communications
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When You Are Become A Witch

2010-09-29T10:20:00.001-07:00

Technically, the first time you cast a spell of any kind you are a witch. This, in some aspects, is not too different than driving a car. For example, if you get behind the wheel of a car, start it, and hit the gas pedal, you are technically driving. Therefore you are a driver, regardless if you are a licensed driver or not. magick without study and practice can be like driving without a license. You would, technically, be a witch. Of course, like driving without knowing what you're doing, you can cause a lot more trouble than you suspect very quickly.

In this next section, I will be referring to Pagans in general. Remember, wiccans are Pagans, but not all Pagans are Wiccans.

Gods can be a tricky subject... But let me see if I can break it down a bit. Again, the beliefs I'm about to tell you apply to a large portion if Pagans, but not all.

The most basic god is the totality of everything. And I do mean everything. All mater, all concept, every single molecule, electron, thought and essence... "Everything that is." The totality includes us, and we are a part of it. It would not be the same without each and every person, and no person would be without being part of everything else. This brings us to the idea that we are really one with our world, each other, our pets, even our keyboard, the stars, everything. Also, being part of this totality is much of the basis of Magick. But we'll get to that later.

Ok, so we, as individuals, are part of a larger sum... In fact the entire Universe. The Universe may, or may not have a purpose (divine will). In fact, it'd be rather difficult to ever know if it did, because of the absolutely mind boggling expanse of the Universe. Nevertheless, some people claim to know what the Universe is up to (but I sure don't).

Now, because of the difficulty in talking about day to day things in context of absolutely everything, this concept is not used much except for in theological discussion, or in some magickal works. The human mind has a habit of breaking things up into smaller pieces to be handled.

From here, gods are pretty much open, honestly. A god is what you use to symbolize emotions or concepts when you need to concentrate on something. If you feel you are going to go into combat, you would concentrate on Mars (for example) to help prepare you for what lay ahead.

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The Complete Idiots Guide To Paganism

2010-09-29T10:19:00.001-07:00

Book: The Complete Idiots Guide To Paganism by Carl Mccolman

You-re no idiot, of course. But finding the perfect expression of your spirituality can prove long and challenging. You might already be attracted to paganism, but considering the variety of traditions and paths that fall in this category, you-ll need a spiritual guide.Seek no further! Whether you-re interested in following the pagan path or just curious to know more, The Complete Idiot-s Guide- to paganism will enlighten you on this fascinating array of nature-based beliefs and practices. In this Complete Idiot-s Guide-, you-ll learn about: * The basic principles of shamanism, druidism, Wicca, and more. * How to deepen your connection to the Goddess, the God, and nature. * The fundamentals of meditation, magic, divination, and spiritual healing. * Tips on incorporating pagan rituals into your modern lifestyle.

A lot of the Idiot's Guides that I have read are really misnamed, because they contain a lot of valuable information about the subject and presented in terms that anyone can understand. I loved this book because it explains virtually every aspect of Paganism. The explanations and descriptions of various Pagan practices, ideals, Sabbats, rituals are kept brief as befits an introductory book. And yet, even after having a handful of other intoductory Pagan books, I found myself learning facts here that I hadn't known about before. The author sticks to the "Pagan philosophy" of "Harm no one" in describing Paganism.

Among topics discussed? Besides the various Pagan Sabbats and pagan ideals, there are chapters devoted to Shamans, Druids, Wicca, the "Spirit World" and the Pagan elements of fire, air, water, and earth. There are four chapters that discuss Pagan rituals and I found the author's claim that we already do rituals in our lives (high school and college graduation, marriage and funerals, for example) very true. I never would have thought about that. There's also several chapters devoted to "Pagan magic," which help to demystify it. The book's last few chapters offer advice on "living the Pagan lifestyle," and there's an extensive list of recommended reading at the book's end. One could spend months reading through the list of books alone if one wanted to.

The more I read about Paganism, the more I realize other religions over the centuries have liberally borrowed its customs and holidays. For anyone wishing to join this path or those already on it seeking to learn more, this book is a wonderful introduction.

Buy Carl Mccolman's book: The Complete Idiots Guide To Paganism

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Simon - The Complete Simon Necronomicon
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Solitary Wicca For Life Complete Guide To Mastering The Craft On Your Own

2010-09-29T10:05:00.005-07:00

Book: Solitary Wicca For Life Complete Guide To Mastering The Craft On Your Own by Arin Murphy Hiscock

If you prefer a solitary approach to worship and Witchcraft, this is the book for you. You need sound guidance and tools as you work alone to deepen your knowledge and strengthen your abilities.

Author Arin Murphy-Hiscock provides you with everything you need to take your spiritual practice to the next level. Solitary Wicca for Life encourages you to reach beyond the ordinary and create a unique path of worship, using techniques that go further than other texts:

- Advanced Circle Casting-advanced techniques and applications, plus methods for creating sacred space when a circle isn't necessary
- Enriching Ritual-tools and techniques that bring new depth to personal practice, including sacred drama, masks, ritual garb, and symbols
- Crafting Liturgy-Wiccan ritual defined stage by stage, as well as guidelines for writing invocations, prayers, meditations, and personalized rituals for esbats, sabbats, rites of passage, and more
- Drawing Down Deities-invoking deities for guidance, communion, worship, etc.
- Growing as a Solitary Wiccan-the means by which you'll enhance your spiritual growth and reach out to the world at large.

Solitary Wicca for Life is the essential reference handbook you need to reach deeper, go farther, and strengthen your solitary path-one day at a time.

I read lots of Wicca 101 books, especially those that seem to be aimed at the Solitary Practitioner. With many of them, I will find some points that I think the average solitary practitioner may relate to, or that someone, somewhere, will relate to. Many times, however, the material does not "click" with my own personal beliefs, or they do not take the "Traditional Path" when it comes to Wicca, but rather they are "Wiccanish". This is OK for someone else, but not necessarily for me. But I do not judge by my standards alone, but rather the viewpoint that everyone needs material that will relate to them personally.

Reading this book, however, there was more material here that I found I agreed with, related to and found to be "Traditional" with a Solitary spin than other books of this kind. And this, to me, was a big plus.

Ms. Murphy-Hiscock has taken Wicca back to the roots and explores adaptation to the Solitary way of practice. This is a Wicca 101 book, so it makes a good first handbook for the average new Solitary practitioner and yet, it provides some material that the advanced practitioner may want to review because of its accuracy, to augment their Wiccan practice, to add elements of the Traditional or just because it is well written and has much to ponder and contemplate.

I especially enjoyed her overview of Wicca Origins, and her separation of Traditional Wicca from the Eclectic practices that Wicca has evolved into. She covers well the Tenets of Wicca, discusses common metaphors and myths and separates some of the more widely accepted but none the less mistaken beliefs and practices that have crept into modern Wicca. She gives you a good idea of how to go back to the beginning, re-examine the issues and maybe take away a better representation of what it is that Wicca is really all about.

Arin Murphy-Hiscock has been a practicing Wiccan for ten years, five of those years as a solitary practitioner. She is the series editor of the For Life series and the author of Power Spellcraft for Life: The Art of Crafting and Casting for Positive Change. She lives in Montreal, Canada.

Buy Arin Murphy Hiscock's book: Solitary Wicca For Life Complete Guide To Mastering The Craft On Your Own

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An Open Letter To Selena Fox

2010-09-29T10:05:00.003-07:00

Book: An Open Letter To Selena Fox by Isaac Bonewits

From:THE DRUIDS PROGRESS, Report #7. The DRUIDS PROGRESS is published seminannually (Gods Willing) and is sent primarily to the subscribing members of ADF. For Further information write: ADF, PO Box 9420, Newark, DE, USA 19714 (include a SASE). All Items acredited to "the Archdruid" have been written by and are (C) 1990 by P.E.I. Bonewits. All items created by other parties are (C) 1990 by them. All opinions expressed, save those specifically attributed to the Board of Trustees, are the opnions of the individuals expressing them and are Not official ADF policy.

Reprint Procedure: Neopagan, Druidic, Midievalist and all cultural publications may reprint any material written by P.E.I. Bonewits, but his copyright notice must appear in full. If more than 250 words are excerpeted, one cent per word should be donated to ADF.

Download Isaac Bonewits's eBook: An Open Letter To Selena Fox

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Isaac Bonewits - An Open Letter To Selena Fox

Wicca A Year And A Day 366 Days Of Spiritual Practice In The Craft Of The Wise

2010-09-29T10:05:00.001-07:00

Book: Wicca A Year And A Day 366 Days Of Spiritual Practice In The Craft Of The Wise by Timothy Roderick

There are no short-cuts to becoming a Witch. Traditionally, students take a year and a day to prepare for their initiation into the Craft. Based on this age-old custom, Wicca: A Year and a Day is a one-of-a-kind daily guide that introduces witchcraft over a 366-day cycle.

Ideal for solitary students, this intensive study course teaches the core content of wiccan practice: the tides of time, the wonders of the seasons, the ways of herbs and magic, the mysticism of the Old Ones, and the inner disciplines of seers and sages. Daily lessons include exercises, Wiccan theology and lore, and discussions relating to circle work, magical correspondences, holidays, deities, tools, healing, and divination.

This book opens with the lesson of the Cauldron of Cerridwen. Each person who looks into Her cauldron sees the wisdoms they will need to follow the "Path of the Wise". This book takes a very unique look at a persons dedication to this path by creating a day to day guide for the dedicating solitary to learn the wisdoms they will need to follow the Wiccan path. Yes, this book focuses on the practicing solitary and is intended as a training guide to help you through the sometimes tough initial "Year and a Day" dedication that so many books only suggest you do. This book actually takes you there.

Timothy Roderick is a British Traditional Wiccan, who's previous books cover many aspects of Wicca, including working with the dark of the moon as well as familiars. He is a teacher of the occult, shamanism and mysticism. He is the founder of the "Earthdance Collective", a Wiccan community where he has been their spiritual director for over a decade. He comes to this book with some very impressive credentials and it shows in his work.

The book's layout is quite simple; it goes by each day. The exercises are not long or drawn out, but rather simple, concise and yet they cover much information. Day 1, for example, discusses Earth-Centered Spirituality, covering a little history, a simple exercise in connecting with the earth, and a simple set of questions designed to explore the exercise as well as exploring yourself. There are also little "dialogue boxes" designed to anticipate some questions or create a "sidebar" discussion for you to ponder further. Following "Day 1" is a list of items you will need for the next 30 days; a shopping list if you will of basic supplies.

Timothy Roderick (Southern California) is a psychotherapist and educational psychologist who holds a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University. He is a trained initiate in the oldest established lineage of English Traditional Wicca in the United States, and has been a student and teacher of the occult, mysticism, shamanism and earth-centered spirituality for several years. Mr. Roderick is the founder of EarthDance Collective, a group that promotes awareness of feminist spirituality.

Buy Timothy Roderick's book: Wicca A Year And A Day 366 Days Of Spiritual Practice In The Craft Of The Wise

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Pino Longchild - Wicca Revealed A First Year Within The Craft
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Kveldulf Gundarsson - Teutonic Magic The Magical And Spiritual Practices Of The Germanic Peoples

What Is A Witchcraft And Wicca Symbol

2010-09-29T04:54:00.000-07:00

Athame

The ritual knife, or athame, is one of the basic Wicca altar tools as well as Wicca symbols - more for insiders than non-Witches, though. Traditionally black-handled, the athame lives in the East, the direction that represents thought, discernment, beginnings, and choice. The knife represents the ability to separate things, to make distinctions. It also symbolises making choices, because for everything you choose, you let go of other options - essentially "killing" them. Joseph Campbell, in The Power of Myth, writes about this kind of cutting edge: "It is the sword of discrimination, separating the merely temporal from the eternal." In other words, it kills what is false, to reveal what is True.

The athame is not generally used in Wicca to cut anything on a physical level, but only to direct magickal energy (attention and intention). Some traditions employ a white-handled knife - a "working knife" - for cutting things. But others Witches see no problem in using the athame for actual as well as symbolic work. Athames hold yang ("male") energy - the power of decision which is necessary for action, that is, the will to create change.

Aura

An Aura is an energy field surrounding things, particularly living beings. All beings, animate and inanimate, have energy fields around them. Being formed of energy, it couldn't be otherwise. Dr. Leonard Laskow, in his book Healing with Love: A Breakthrough Mind/Body Medical Program for Healing Yourself and Others, describes seven layers of human energy fields. They range from nearly physical to imperceptible energy. Some of this energy is visible, to those practiced at perceiving it. Some people perceive auras as colours or light like a halo around things. Others interpret it as a sense of near-solidity in an area around a person, like surface tension on water.

Many Witches have developed their ability to sense these energy fields, and so Wicca has some connection with auras. (Starhawk has excellent exercises to help beginner Wiccans develop this skill in The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Goddess: 20th Anniversary Edition.) Still, we hardly have a monopoly on them! Lots of people sense and work with auras, without being Wiccan. This posting has been brought to you by the letter A and the number 13. I wonder if you could change the Sesame Street Theme to something Wiccan?

Books in PDF format to read:

Summers Montague - The History Of Witchcraft And Demonology
Anonymous - Witchcraft And Wicca Faq

Tags: khing purity legis greek translation july 2008 animals sword aramaic magic picture of life after death

6 Questions On Wicca And Paganism

2010-09-28T19:23:00.005-07:00

Book: 6 Questions On Wicca And Paganism by Al Selden Leif

Contemporary paganism is the restoration of indigenous religion, especially that of ancient Europe. Paganism has grown in popularity greatly during the last hundred years. The growth coincides with a decline in Christianity in Europe, and the increase in knowledge of past and distant cultures.

WICCA (sometimes called Wicce, The Craft, or The old religion by its practitioners) is based on an ancient religion of love for life and nature.

Contents of Book:

- History of Modern Paganism
- Why Paganism
- Pagan worship
- A Pagan Pledge
- Wicca Basics
- Teen Witches
- The Ancient Art

Download Al Selden Leif's eBook: 6 Questions On Wicca And Paganism

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A Historical Account Of The Belief In Witchcraft In Scotland

2010-09-28T19:23:00.003-07:00

Book: A Historical Account Of The Belief In Witchcraft In Scotland by Charles Kirkpatrick Sharpe

1884. Found in this volume is a historical account of witchcraft in Scotland, with chapters delineating various time periods up to AD 1465 through AD 1724. It is an introduction tracing the legends of wizardry and spectral appearances to the earliest periods of Scottish history. It is the best chronological and historical account of such matters in Scotland, and being strictly a monograph, independent from Law's "Memorialls" which Mr. Sharpe edited.

Download Charles Kirkpatrick Sharpe's eBook: A Historical Account Of The Belief In Witchcraft In Scotland

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A Charm To Gain Advantage Over A Stronger Person

2010-09-28T19:23:00.001-07:00

This is a charm from The Long Lost Friend, the grimoire of Christian/Pennsylvania Dutch magic first appearing in the 1820s. It’s author, John George Hohman (or Hoffman depending on the publisher), was said to himself be a healer and folk-magic practitioner. Until recently the book was found mainly in religious stores that serviced Santeria or Voodoo practitioners. The book regained it’s popularity with occult publishing houses (no doubt because it’s exempt from copyright laws) and there are several versions of various quality available. I have heard good things about this Kindle edition.

This charm is an incantation used before confronting someone bigger than you if things may get physical. It needs no preparation or special tools except a practitioner who is in practice and can generate the energy and focus necessary for any magical operation. It’s aimed at a man in the book, but I suppose it will work just as well on a big, intimidating woman.

I (N.N.) breathe upon thee. Three Drops of blood I take from thee: the first out of thy heart, the other out of thy liver and the third out of thy vital powers; and in this I deprive thee of thy strength and manliness.

Hbbi Massa danti Lantien. I. I. I.

I copied this out of an old edition (Fulton religious Supplies) I’ve had for years and there may be slight variations in other editions. I have always assumed the final ‘I’s” were just spoken as it sounds, but some people have said it should be pronounced more like “EEEE” and others say it is a closing where a Christian may cross themselves. In most manuals the printers put a cross at the end of charms where you were expected to “cross” yourself but I suppose it’s possible this was a print mistake. But neither argument has ever swayed me. Do what feels right.

Free eBooks (Can Be Downloaded):

Peter Henry Emerson - Welsh Fairy Tales And Other Stories
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William Lilly - Anima Astrologiae Or A Guide For Astrologers
John Stearne - A Confirmation And Discovery Of Witchcraft Ocr Version

Magical Herbalism The Secret Craft Of The Wise

2010-09-27T19:23:00.009-07:00

Book: Magical Herbalism The Secret Craft Of The Wise by Scott Cunningham

Natural magic utilizes the world around us for magical purposes. Herbs are one of the most important tools for natural magic, and the best introduction to this system is found in Scott Cunningham's Magical Herbalism.

This book presents a complete system of magic using herbs. You will learn the theory of magic and the tools you'll need. Then you'll get countless techniques for using herbs for magic. Need a protection method? "Pick several protective herbs and bind the stems together with red thread, then hang them up. This practice dates back to Babylonian times." You'll find a list of over 115 herbs that details their magical powers, so you can easily find which ones are protective in nature.

Complete system of magic that is as easy as it is powerful. It begins with theory and what you need to do to prepare for works of magic. Then it tells you how to harvest, dry, and store the magical herbs. This is followed by information on how to use the herbs you have obtained for such things as getting love, doing divinations, casting protection spells, and healing yourself and others. You'll also learn how to make magical fluid condensers, incenses, perfumes, scented oils, and amulets. The book continues with a listing of over 115 major magical herbs with all of their qualities listed. And there is much, much more, too. The phrase "complete system" really doesn't express how full of information this book really is.
Another reason I think this book has become a classic has to do with Scott's style of writing. It is very gentle and kind. He never talks at you or down to you. Rather, he seems to be talking with you. This makes the book a pleasure and a treasure to read and enjoy.

How about a divination using herbs? "Get a small quantity of dried patchouly, mugwort, or wormwood. Crumble the herb between your hands until it is finely diminished. Next, pour it into a small square pan (glass or ceramic). Light yellow candles and place the pan on your working area. Close your eyes, extend the index finger of your weak hand, and gently touch the center of the pan with its tip. Move it at random in the pan, shifting from one direction to another ... Now, remove your finger, open your eyes, and interpret the symbols you have just written in the herb."
All of the techniques, rituals, spells, talismans, healing methods, and charms are this easy. And most importantly, they work! You'll also find how to make and use incenses, scented oils, perfumes, fluid condensers, and so much more.

This combination of style and depth of content makes Magical Herbalism one of the finest and most important resources you can have. If you are looking to expand your knowledge of herbs, this book is for you. If you are looking to expand your knowledge of folklore, you need this book. And if you are looking to work with the gracious gifts of Mother Nature that can be used to improve your life and the lives of those around you, this book is a must.

Both novice and veteran will find something of interest within its covers with extensive information in an easy-to-read format. You can learn how to make amulets, potions, incenses, oils, sachets, simples, infusions and a garden to be used for magical spells and rituals geared to a variety of purposes. This book is a treasure.

Buy Scott Cunningham's book: Magical Herbalism The Secret Craft Of The Wise

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Jean Despagnet - The Hermetic Arcanum The Secret Work Of The Hermetic Philosophy
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William Kiesel - Picatrix Ghayat Al Hakim The Goal Of The Wise Vol I

Reaching Out To Wiccans

2010-09-27T19:23:00.007-07:00

Book: Reaching Out To Wiccans by Anonymous

Begin your time together by asking your students to name as many TV shows, books, movies and video games as they can that deal with witches, the supernatural world and the occult. As they name them, list each one on a chalkboard, whiteboard or large sheet of paper.

Say something like this: Obviously, there’s a huge interest in our culture in supernatural things and the occult. It’s no wonder that the beliefs and practices of the Wiccan religion are spreading fast in North America and around the world. Teenagers, especially, are being drawn to a religion called Wicca. Today, we’re going to study what wiccans believe, what the Bible says about those beliefs, and how we can reach out to friends who are interested in Wicca.

Download Anonymous's eBook: Reaching Out To Wiccans

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Anonymous - Reaching Out To Wiccans

Some Things To Look For And Avoid In Wiccan Covern

2010-09-27T19:23:00.005-07:00

Here are some things to look for:

* People you can respect, trust and love.
* Good people. How could anyone be spiritual without being at least honest and kind?
* Authentic people - people who seem to live in accordance with the values they espouse. If they claim to be able to teach you Nature spirituality, do they live lightly on the Earth? If they claim to be able to teach you magic, do they seem to be grounded, centered and empowered?
* Competent people - people who seem knowledgeable and skilled, people who are organized, who keep their appointments and are well-prepared for their classes.
* People who listen. People who ask the kinds of questions that encourage you to explore your own spirituality and your own ideas and feelings about traditional lore. People who are genuinely open to learning from their students, as well as teaching them.
* People who will respect your confidences. People who will neither gossip nor use information you share to manipulate or hurt you.

and some things to avoid:

* Authoritarians - stay away from anyone who tries to censor your reading or to isolate you from family or friends. Beware of those who get irritated when you ask challenging questions. Be even more wary of anyone who, when you ask a difficult question, either ridicules you or patronizes you ("let your elders worry about that one, dear, your job right now is just to learn what we teach."). If anybody tries to forbid you to express your opinions in the presence of your elders, run screaming out the door. (all these things have happened)
* Sexual predators - unfortunately a few of these creeps infest every religion. If somebody tells you that your magical or spiritual advancement depends on your giving them what they want, first spit in their eye, then get away fast.
* Hypocrites - those who say they love Mother Earth, and live carelessly and wastefully, those who say they love the Goddess and dominate or abuse human women, those who claim to be Spirit-led while their behavior is ego-driven.
* Exploiters - but they're not instantly identifiable. Any coven might ask students to take a turn bringing consumable supplies like candles or cookies. Teaching covens may have monetary expenses, such as photocopying or rental for a meeting room -- and it's entirely reasonable for them to charge dues and cover their costs from the common purse thus created. There is some debate in our community about whether a Craft teacher should accept payment for their time and work. This is a matter of opinion, but you can be sure that a teacher who takes payment is not practicing Traditional Witchcraft.
It's also fair for a teacher or coven to ask you to do your share of set-up and clean-up, or of ongoing coven projects. But if some coven leader expects you to work free in their profit- making business, or act as their domestic servant, run screaming out the door.
* People who order you to go against your values. Again, this involves some subtle issues. One of the major goals of spiritual development is to learn to hear the still, small inner voice. But some of our inner directives are actually cultural or familial programming. These prescriptions and prescriptions may also be wise, or they may be limiting, or actually evil (consider racial prejudice). They often drown out the voice of authentic Spirit. The best teachers will gently challenge their students to override outworn programming, but never to go against core values. The issue of readiness is also important. If you try to override even the nastiest old programming before you are ready, you might cause a painful backlash. This psychological trauma can actually retard your progress. Beware of insensitive autocrats who try to force all their students into the same Procrustean bed. Don't ever let anybody pressure into doing anything - in or out of Circle - that you believe is wrong. In ritual, we speak to our deepest minds, establishing the moods and motivations that shape our lives. Don't ever do in token what you would not do in truth.

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Lakes Area Pagan Fall 2008 Vol 2 No 2

2010-09-27T19:23:00.003-07:00

Book: Lakes Area Pagan Fall 2008 Vol 2 No 2 by Anarchistbanjo

The Lakes Area pagan is published as a service to the local pagan and wiccan community. Contributors have been asked to use pen names or Craft names for security reasons. No profit is made on the publication of this magazine other than the small profit the bookstore makes for distributing it. There is no advertising. There is only the willingness to share. I have done minor editing of spelling and grammar to make the issue more readable.

Download Anarchistbanjo's eBook: Lakes Area Pagan Fall 2008 Vol 2 No 2

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Anarchistbanjo - Lakes Area Pagan Fall 2008 Vol 2 No 2

The Tree Of Life An Illustrated Study In Magic

2010-09-27T19:23:00.001-07:00

Book: The Tree Of Life An Illustrated Study In Magic by Israel Regardie

Israel Regardie wrote The Tree of Life, a book many consider his magnum opus, in 1932. It has continued to sell for decades. And no wonder. Up until the time this book was published, very little information about true high magic was available to the public.

In this book, Regardie reveals the secrets of real magic. He begins with an explanation of what magic is and, just as importantly, what magic is not. He explains that it is a spiritual study and practice which, along with forms of yoga, forms the two branches of the tree that is mysticism. Magic is not being a medium or a psychic. Then he explains the tools of the magician, what they mean, and how to use them. He explains the techniques of evocation and invocation, skrying, and astral travel. He shows how the Qabalah unites everything. He even gives a description of the secrets of sexual magick. All of this is in a clear, lucid writing style. This book is simply a must for anyone who is, or aspires to be, a real magician.

I've read the material contained in The Tree of Life a hundred times in a hundred other books. Those books are a but a shadow of this one. Each of those others list this one in their bibliography while they try to re-tell it as well. None have succeeded. Those other books have their place, but this very well written tome is at the foundation of modern magick.

There are a couple of things I might mention to the potential reader. Though containing a good explanation of the Qabalah, contrary to the title, the book is really about Ceremonial Magick in its many forms. At times, Regardie approaches the subject as an apologist arguing around Blavatsky's Theosophical Society's tenants, which were the fashion at the time of the writing. The debate is mostly lost on modern readers but doesn't detract from the work and is completed in the early chapters.

Although Chic and Sandra Tabatha Cicero were friends of Regardie and are Senior Adepts of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, what changes could they have made to this classic book? Well, they did change the spelling from British style to American. And they did change his transliterations of Hebrew into the more popular style he used in his later books. But nothing vital was changed or removed. Everything else they added was complementary to the text that was there. And what incredible additions they are! Extensive annotations throughout every chapter; over 100 illustrations; more descriptive contents pages; a glossary, a bibliography and an index. They've even added a biographical note on Regardie and the importance of this book to him and to the occult world.

I'm glad they changed Regardie's old spelling of Hebrew words like Sephiros to Sephiroth to make them conform with the way modern magicians say these words! Sure, you can still buy the old Weiser edition, but if you do, you won't be getting over a hundred illustrations, great footnotes, a table of contents that you can ACTUALLY read, a 50+ page glossary of magical terms, and a comprehensive index. I know which edition I use more often, and it isn't the Weiser one!

Regardie's Tree of Life is invalueable to the student of both Qabalah and magic, introducing us to the methods employed by Aleister Crowley, the Golden Dawn and the Goetia. Regardie has extensively studied rituals of the Ancient Egyptians and Greeks and outlines simple formulas for performing the most complex rituals founded upon ancient knowledge. Also outlines the Augoeides working.

This book contains some of the finest occult writing that has ever been produced. And with the new material by the Ciceros, it becomes a must-have for any magician!

Buy Israel Regardie's book: The Tree Of Life An Illustrated Study In Magic

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Green Witchcraft

2010-09-26T19:23:00.009-07:00

Book: Green Witchcraft by Ann Moura

Positive, practical, and easy to use, Green witchcraft brings together the best of both modern Wicca and the author`s family Heritage of herb craft and folk magic. Green Witchcraft explores the fundamentals of the Wiccan religion, providing magical training for the independent thinker. Step-by-step instructions on a wide variety of magical techniques as well as basic rules of conduct make this the ideal book to get you started. Green rituals for self-initiation, rites of passage, seasonal celebrations and activities provide an excellent foundation for your own magical tradition.

Download Ann Moura's eBook: Green Witchcraft

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The Trial

2010-09-26T19:23:00.007-07:00

Doubt. The very word knows us. The very word is reminiscence to all who walk the Wild Path. Doubt is our common trial and sometimes the end of our path. It destroys and cripples those who are weakened to it and fall to its shadow. Doubt can prevail if we are not strong and I assure you each and everyone of us will be exposed to its tyranny. The challenge from the Gods to test our strength, our magick and our power and will of our own mind. I have experienced this Doubt, I almost let it overwhelm me and at times I did. At times I sobbed and my sides heaved. At times the Doubt would consume my thoughts, I was sick and depressed and it continued to stop me on my path.

I started to Doubt after Yule, the Winter Solstice. After the coven I am involved with celebrated the rebirth of the God, the Sun Child and comforted the tired Goddess. It was the beginning of Winter in the Southern Hemisphere and I returned home after the Shortest Night and I shared a prayer with the Goddess. I asked her to bring me my obstacle if I was ready and I guess she heard me loud and clear and thought I was ready. Two weeks later I discovered an entity had found its way into my home so I did a ritual to dispel it. At the end of this Ritual I opened the Circle and asked the Mother to take me to bed and bid me goodnight. She was holding a golden child in her arms and she kissed my forehead and smiled mysteriously as I switched off the light and went to sleep. The next morning I felt something stir within me, I felt a power that I was yet to discover would be a great enemy.

Through the days, the weeks and the months that followed I prayed, I self-sacrificed, made offerings, cast spells, performed rituals to try to take this Doubt away from me. I consulted both my cowan friends and pagan friends, but nothing did the trick. I felt as if I was at the foot of a large tower in the middle of a desert. That there was no one with me, I was forsaken in a land I did not know - abandoned. I wept and plead to the God and Goddess that they would take it away, but the Tower was ever-standing. However some days I thought it had finally disappeared and some days I thought it would never end, it waxed and waned in its power over me. One afternoon I found myself on my bed next to my altar crying and dowsing for an answer, asking the pendulum if it would ever end. It always said yes, but I was always unsure. This Doubt gives you internal scars. Brands that will stay with you, almost like a war wound. However, in this period it was odd that I still performed at my peak. I was great in my power and energy, sometimes I would ignore the Doubt and tell it to go away in obscene tongue. This is how I got rid of it, one way or another.

A good friend of mine, a wiccan from Sydney told me to ignore the Doubt. I took that advice but I guess I misinterpreted it. I began to use my inner-voice and shout at it, screaming at, revealing my pain. It began to wax in power and I discovered this was not the right thing to do and so I reassessed my friend's wisdom. I was to absolutely ignore it, pretend as if it never existed and it began to work. I felt the Doubt begin to disperse within me, receding to the Universe from whence it came. I pushed it further and soon enough I discovered that I was over it, it returned in strokes and still haunts me in seconds but ultimately it has gone. It would go to haunt another, wreak its pain and suffering on another of the Wild Path. Take them and strike them down as their trial and this is my adivce to you.

However much you cry, however much you wish to leave your path, however much you are set on the idea the world has turned its back on you. This is not true. It is you who has turned you back on the world if you allow the Doubt to take you. Your path will support you, the Gods will hold you when you weep as their child. Do not depend on their help. They are ruthless and disappointing as a family and as such you are created in their own image. Use this knowledge to defeat the power that hinders you. Take of my words and seek the Doubt before it seeks you. Be done with it so and hold you head high. You are a God, you govern your own fate. Use your divine hand to chase the Doubt away. Never let it be your God, for that is fake. It assumes the identity. Know this however my friends.
"As Darkness consumes the Land and the Sea
Hold to your friends and family
Hold to the Goddess, the Mother of All
Hold to the God, Pan's wild call
Seek unto other, the pain that is shared
To know, to keep silent, to will and to dare!"

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Wiccan Community

A Winter Solstice Story For Children

(author unknown)

Festival Of Salii

Found at Wikipedia

The Purpose Of Mabon

From: Magickal Winds

Roast Mutton For Mabon

* 1 clove of garlic

By Gordon Ireland

Decorations And Activities For Mabon

Source Unknown

Stuffed Acorn Squash For Mabon

by Stella Maris

Old Michaelmas Day Customs

Source

Midsummer Celebrations In Ancient Times

Celebrating The Winter Solstice

by Selena Fox

May Day Maple Hearth Bread

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

Yield: 1 loaf Source: A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook

Magick And Hypnosis

Book: Magick And Hypnosis by Carroll Runyon

Five Ways To Celebrate Samhain

The Liberalia

Source: Wikipedia

Wicca 101 A New Reference For The Beginner Wiccan Wicca Witchcraft And Paganism

Book: Wicca 101 A New Reference For The Beginner Wiccan Wicca Witchcraft And Paganism by Kristina Benson

Symptoms And Black Magic Bad Effects

Ritual Magick

Nocturne City Book 4 Witch Craft

Book: Nocturne City Book 4 Witch Craft by Caitlin Kittredge

The Great Rite In Wicca

Witching Way Of The Hollow Hill

Book: Witching Way Of The Hollow Hill by Robin Artisson

Having A Bad Day

JANUARY: 7 days: 3, 4, 6, 13, 14, 20, 21. FEBRUARY:

MARCH: 8 days: 1, 2, 5, 8, 12, 16, 28, 29. APRIL:

MAY: 5 days: 17, 20, 27, 29, 30. JUNE:

JULY: 4 days: 3, 10, 17, 18. AUGUST:

SEPTEMBER: 2 days: 9, 16. OCTOBER:

NOVEMBER: 4 days: 3, 9, 10, 21. DECEMBER:

Found in:

Encyclopaedia of Superstitions, Folklore, and the Occult Sciences

Four Elements Invocations

The Complete Book Of Incense Oils And Brews

Book: The Complete Book Of Incense Oils And Brews by Scott Cunningham

A Treatise Of Witchcraft

Book: A Treatise Of Witchcraft by Alexander Roberts

Festival Of The Boundary Markers

When he's thrown grain three times into the fire

Others carry wine: part of each is offered to the flames:

And sing your praises, sacred Terminus:

Since then, Terminus, you've not been free to wander:

Ovid, Fasti Vol II Source: Stephanie Pope

Solstice Story

Source: SFX Solstice 2009

Sword And Athame

Overview Of Day Of The Dead

HISTORY OF DAY OF THE DEAD

DAY OF THE DEAD TRIVIA

Source: Wikipedia

Fallacy Of Ghosts Dreams And Omens With Stories Of Witchcraft Life In Death And Monomania

Book: Fallacy Of Ghosts Dreams And Omens With Stories Of Witchcraft Life In Death And Monomania by Charles Ollier

Wiccan Handfasting

The Circle Within Creating A Wiccan Spiritual Tradition

Book: The Circle Within Creating A Wiccan Spiritual Tradition by Dianne Sylvan

Old Naumkeag An Historical Sketch Of The City Of Salem

Book: Old Naumkeag An Historical Sketch Of The City Of Salem by Charles Webber

Her Hidden Children The Rise Of Wicca And Paganism In America

Book: Her Hidden Children The Rise Of Wicca And Paganism In America by Chas Clifton

Checklist For A Well Working Group

Lectures On Witchcraft Comprising A History Of The Delusion In Salem In 1692

Book: Lectures On Witchcraft Comprising A History Of The Delusion In Salem In 1692 by Charles Wentworth Upham

Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca

Book: Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca by Bylaws

Leadership In A Mixed Coven

A Book Of Pagan Prayer

Yield: 1 loaf

Source: A Kitchen Witch's Cookbook

JANUARY:

7 days: 3, 4, 6, 13, 14, 20, 21.

FEBRUARY:

MARCH:

8 days: 1, 2, 5, 8, 12, 16, 28, 29.

APRIL:

MAY:

5 days: 17, 20, 27, 29, 30.

JUNE:

JULY:

4 days: 3, 10, 17, 18.

AUGUST:

SEPTEMBER:

2 days: 9, 16.

OCTOBER:

NOVEMBER:

4 days: 3, 9, 10, 21.

DECEMBER:

Ovid, Fasti Vol II

Source: Stephanie Pope