Sword And Athame

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.

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Old Naumkeag An Historical Sketch Of The City Of Salem

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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Unicorn Tradition Of Wicca

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.

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Leadership In A Mixed Coven

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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White Magic Spells

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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Willow The Wiccan

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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Pagan Potions Brew Magic Formula

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.

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Full Moon Ritual Group

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.

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Pagan Germany

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.

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Historical And Literary Studies Pagan Jewish And Christian

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.

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Welcome To Occult Community

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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The Complete Idiots Guide To Paganism

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

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.

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The Tree Of Life An Illustrated Study In Magic

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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Modern Magick Eleven Lessons In The High Magickal Arts

Book: Modern Magick Eleven Lessons In The High Magickal Arts by Donald Michael Kraig

Modern Magick is the most popular, most complete, step-by-step instruction manual on how to do real magick that has ever been published. Already over 100,000 people are using it. What does it cover? Rituals, healing, initiation, talismans, astral travel, creative visualization, psychic self-defense, evocation of spirits, the Kabalah, physical exercise, and magical tools such as wands. Want more? You'll also learn the secrets of true meditation, how to use the Tarot, how to remember your dreams, how to do the rituals of Western Magick, including rituals of the Pentagram, Hexagram, Middle Pillar, Rose Cross, and Watchtower. You'll learn how to manipulate magical energy, secrets of relaxation, Wicca, pathworking, Tantra, and sex magick. Once you have finished working your way through this book you will be an accomplished magician. You will be able to perform real magick. Then this book will become the most valuable reference tool in your collection of books.

What if you want to know even more about a subject? No problem. Each chapter has a bibliography so you can go even deeper into any topic. There is an annotated bibliography at the end with even more resources.

In the new, second edition the contents pages contain more information so it is even easier to find what you need, but there is also an entirely new appendix with answers to many of the most frequently asked questions that Kraig has received over the years. This book is a must!

I still remember reading the manuscript of Modern Magick. Today, as I look over the second edition of this book, I remember why I was so impressed with it back then and remain impressed now: format and breadth.

After all those years of wondering about magick and trying to find a book which really teaches you the REAL secrets of magick, this book wins the ultimate MUST HAVE. Very good for those who are starters in Magick. This book lets you understand and learn the Whats, the Hows, and the Whens of Magick. You will be able to understand other books on the Occult once you have finished reading this book. Most of the beginners would like to jump to COOL Magick like Goetia - then upon reading it and trying to summon things - nothing happens - then you start wondering if you have to read between the lines, well, in a way yes. So, before jumping to those more advance versions of Magick, this book will be your guide to understand what Magick is and how to use other Magickal or Occult books.

The breadth of this book is amazing. It covers so many topics that you will be astounded. From witchcraft to Kabalah, from reincarnation to astral travel, from charging talismans to pathworking up the Tree of Life, this book has it all. Do you need to know rituals for banishing? They're here. Do you want to learn how to make magical tools? It's in this book. Do you want the secrets for safely calling up spirits from the famous grimoires? You can learn it here, too, along with the secrets of sex magick and Tantric sexuality.

But all of these exercises, rituals, and techniques — all of this information — is no good unless you can make use of it and understand it. That is an area where this book really excels. Instead of simply throwing out all of the material at once, this book has a progressive format. What you learn in lesson two is based on what you learned in lesson one. What comes is later lessons is based on your study of the previous ones. Because it is progressive, Don doesn't have to waste space by repeating what came earlier. But because you constantly use everything, you can go much deeper into every subject.

If you have a first edition of this book, be sure to get a copy of the second edition. It adds a section on answers to common questions and more informative contents pages. I think you will be excited with it, too. I know of many people who have worn out two or three copies of this book. Entire magical orders use it as their text. Isn't it time for you to begin?

Author Donald Michael Kraig wrote this after teaching the information in classes for ten years. It is refined, tested, and easy to understand. It is filled with exercises, techniques, and rituals to help you. It is presented in a series of eleven lessons. Follow the lessons, practice the rituals and techniques, and by the end of your work you will be a magician.

I know many who likes to skip chapters just to learn what one wants to learn. If you are serious in Magick, take your time to go from the beginning. You need to build up sufficient knowledge of how to let Magick happen. As for experienced Magicians, I would say that this is a good reference. This book is mainly based on Kabbalistic Magick and a few Low Magick (nature magick). Too bad there isn't much on Enochian. I've been followin the lessons in the book and I can say that: its not complicated and Magick WORKS (this statement are for those who are sceptics)!! All in all this book provides you with good history in Magick though not in detail but still not too boring. For those serious in this, I would also recommend the audio tape to pronounce the difficult words there are in the book.

Buy Donald Michael Kraig's book: Modern Magick Eleven Lessons In The High Magickal Arts

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The Witch In History Early Modern And Twentieth Century Representations

Book: The Witch In History Early Modern And Twentieth Century Representations by Diane Purkiss

A symbol of everything that is dark about the past and woman, the witch continues to fascinate us in the late twentieth century. The Witch in history explores that
fascination and its manifold forms through court records, early modern dramas and the modern histories and fictions that draw upon them.

This book argues that in early modern England, the witch was a woman’s fantasy and not simply a male nightmare. Through witch-beliefs and stories about witches,
early modern women were able to express and manage powerful and passionate feelings that still resonate for us today, feelings that could not be uttered in a
seventeenth-century context: unconscious fears of and fury with children and mothers.

In our own era, groups as diverse as women writers, academic historians and radical feminists have found in the witch a figure who justifies and defines their own
identities. Then too, there are those who still call themselves witches in 1990s Britain, who still practise magic and who invent their own histories of witchcraft to
sustain them. Constantly reworked and debated, the witch is central to all these groups.

Looking at texts from colonial narratives to court masques, trial records to folktales, and literary texts from Shakespeare to Sylvia Plath, this book shows how
the witch acts as a carrier for the fears, desires and fantasies of women and men both now and in the early modern period. Diane Purkiss is Lecturer in English at the University of Reading.

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The Trinity Is It Christian Or Pagan

Book: The Trinity Is It Christian Or Pagan by Anonymous

Almost ten years ago I overheard two men talking to eachother about 'the nonsense of 'believing in a God'. According to this men the trinity-doctrine already existed long before the Roman-catholics started to write about the holy Trinity. And of course 'the Mother-Son-Gods' already existed according to them.

Though I had not yet become a Christian by immersion at that moment I considered their remarks a threat and very insulting indeed. With this paper I get a chance of setting the record straight.

Download Anonymous's eBook: The Trinity Is It Christian Or Pagan

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Yule Celebrations In Denmark

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.

Danes celebrate on December 24, which is called Juleaftensdag (literally, Yule Eve Day), or simply Jul. An elaborate dinner is eaten with the family in the evening, consisting of roast pork, roast duck or roast goose with potatoes, red cabbage and gravy. For dessert is rice pudding with a cherry sauce, traditionally with an almond hidden inside. The lucky finder of this almond is entitled to a small gift. After the meal is complete, the family gather around the Juletrea to sing Christmas carols and dance hand in hand around the tree. Then the children often hand out the presents which are opened immediately.

This is followed by candy, chips, various nuts, clementines, and sometimes a mulled and spiced wine with almonds and raisins called Glogg is served hot in small cups. Following the main celebration of Jul or Juleaften on December 24, December 25 and December 26 are, respectively, celebrated as Forste Juledag and Anden Juledag, both holidays, and are generally filled with relaxed familial socializing and the enjoying of leftovers from the Juleaften meal. Some Danish families also celebrate December 23 as Lillejuleaften (Little Christmas Eve). Traditions for this day might include decoration of the Juletr?, enjoying roast duck, and caroling.

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Correlian Wicca

Book: Correlian Wicca by Anonymous

WHAT WILL YOU GET FROM THESE LESSONS

What is all this witchcraft stuff, anyway? Does being a witch mean you can point your finger and make things happen? Does it mean you can learn to fly on a broom and turn people into toads? Well, not quite. Witchcraft, or WICCA, is a religion. Wicca is not primarily about magic, though it does use it. Wicca is about your place in the Universe and your evolution as a spiritual being. Wicca is about moving forward on your personal spiritual journey - about learning, growing, and becoming the most you can be.

If you complete this course of 12 lessons, you will be eligible for initiation into the First Degree of Correllian Wicca. The First Degree is the lowest level of initiatory membership in a WICCAN TRADITION. Wicca is composed of many traditions most -but not all- of which recognize each others initiations. If you choose to take the First Degree initiation -and you are not obligated toyou will become a member of the Correllian tradition. The Correllian tradition is a synchretic and highly philosophical tradition of Wicca, which stresses the inherent unity of all Pagan traditions and the synchronicity of all spiritual paths. We believe that Deity is in all things, therefore all paths can lead to Deity.

Wicca is not an exclusive religion. Because we believe all paths lead to Deity, we do not believe that one must belong to any given faith or tradition to be a good person or to grow spiritually. Nor is it necessary to belong to only one. Being a Correllian initiate does not mean you can not also be an Isian, Druidic, or Dianic initiate as well -or any other tradition you might wish to study or join. You must however respect our tradition as a member and follow Correllian practices in Correllian temples -but what you do other places is your own business. Your private beliefs and conscience are your own business and we have no desire to dictate them to you. Wicca is about learning to make your own choices, and the Wiccan traditions exist to provide a framework in which to learn and grow. Wicca seeks to open your thinking, not to limit it.

Download Anonymous's eBook: Correlian Wicca

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Chelmsford Witches

Book: Chelmsford Witches by Frank Luttmer

The Examination and Confession of Certain Witches at Chelmsford in the County of Essex, before the Queen Majesty's Judges, the 26th day of July Anno 1566 (London, 1566)

The examination of them with their confession before Doctor Cole and Master Foscue at the same Assize verbatum as near as could be gathered, and first of Elizabeth Francis who said as here followeth.

First she learned this art of witchcraft at the age of twelve years of her grandmother whose name was Eve of Hatfield Peverell deceased. Item when she taught it her, she counselled her to renounce God and his word, and to give of her blood to Satan (as she termed it) which she delivered her in the likeness of a white spotted Cat, and taught her to feed the said Cat with bread and milk and she did so, also she taught her to call it by name of Satan and keep it in a basket.

When this mother Eve had given her the Cat Satan, then this Elizabeth desired first of the said cat (calling it Satan) that she might be rich and to have goods, and he promised her she should, asking her what she would have, and she said sheep for this cat spake to her as she confessed in a strange hollow voice, (but such as she understood by use) and this Cat forthwith brought sheep into her pasture to thenumber of twenty-eight black and white, which continued with her for a time, but in the end did all wear away she knew not how.

Download Frank Luttmer's eBook: Chelmsford Witches

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