Reclaiming the Witch's Pentagram

Reclaiming the Witch's Pentagram by Kephri Ra

The so called 'inverted' pentagram will be familiar to everyone as the ubiquitous symbol of evil, common to Hollywood movies and satanic societies alike. The ‘upright’ pentagram is also a common and well known occult symbol, which can be found in many diverse spiritual traditions. One religion in which this symbol is particularly prominent is the modern Pagan practice of Wicca.

The association between witchcraft and the five pointed star is a long one, reaching back towards the obscure origins of the craft itself. In the past it is known that the inverted version of the pentagram was used as a symbol of witchcraft. Most witches today, however, seem to prefer using the symbol in what is generally called the upright position. Whether this switch happened due to a feeling that the inverse symbol was just a Christian slur and an attempt to condemn the practice of witchcraft with what is, in truth, a symbol of evil, or whether the strong association of the symbol with evil in the public imagination simply made it too distasteful to use is not at all clear to me. But what does seem clear to me is that this change was a mistake.

I feel very confident that a thoughtful study of the actual meaning of the pentagram, in both positions, shows that the ‘inverse’ position is the proper symbol of witchcraft.

The basics are not disputed, and are common knowledge: the five points of the star represent the four elements of material existence – earth, water, fire and air – and the fifth element of quintessence, or pure spirit. The interpretation of the so called ‘upright’ pentagram is also commonly known, and I do not dispute it. The single point of spiritual essence depicted at the apex, above the other four points, represents the superiority and dominance of spiritual existence over material existence.

The problem occurs when you over-simplistically assume that reversing the orientation of the symbol yields an identical but opposite meaning, i.e. the dominance and victory of the material over the spiritual. This logic is most probably derived from that of that other popular satanic symbol – the inverted cross – which actually has no esoteric meaning at all, and is merely a symbolic act of desecration, perversion, and enmity towards Christianity and what it represents.

To find the true meaning you must first recognise that the characteristics of the spiritual essence revealed in the ‘upright’ pentagram are neither comprehensive nor universal characteristics of spirit. Indeed it should be self-evidently clear that dominance and victory are peculiarly masculine concerns; that is, they belong to the realm of the divine masculine – our father in heaven.

Having this it is, I would suggest, logical to assume that the character of the ‘inverse’ pentagram is indicative of the divine feminine. In other words this symbol does not represent the dominance of the material over the spiritual for the simple reason that it is not actually about dominion at all.

So what is the true meaning of the witch’s pentagram? I would suggest that it represents the spiritual essence which nourishes and sustains life – the spirit of our mother earth.

Both versions of the symbol can be seen as good or evil according to how they are manifested. In the feminine form it can show material things being given higher value than spiritual things and therefore moral corruption, just as the masculine form can conceal the twisted ‘holy warrior’ whose lust for the dominion of his faith can lead to the mass murder of innocents. Esoteric symbols represent divine laws and truths – they are not evil – people are evil.

How to Incorporate Practical Magic Into Your Daily Life

How To Incoporate Practical Magic Into Your Daily Life! by Cucan Pemo

More and more people these days are turning to witchcraft, paganism and wiccan spiritual practices as more meaningful and inclusive forms of religion. Since the printing of Gerald Gardner's Witchcraft Today, thousands have discovered the power it can have.

Although we live in a highly modernized, technological world, the ancient wisdom and knowledge that is imparted through witchcraft is still relevant today, if in fact even more so, since it is a peaceful, inclusive and deeply conscious tradition, that reveres the earth and earthly cycles. In this day and age, which is dominated by war and wanton environmental destruction, witchcraft offers a gentle nonviolent alternative way of making sense of our world.

Some people sadly, fear witchcraft because they wrongly associate it with the dark arts of Satanism. This is a grave misconception, which witches everywhere are seeking to dispel. According to Gardner, contrary to the popular perceptions, witchcraft is more to do with honoring the earth and the divine feminine. In fact, most people who practice witchcraft, do so because it is holistic, non-judgmental and non-patriarchal inasmuch as it honors the sacred creativity of women, and recognizes the life-giving force of the earth upon which we live. Many people see witchcraft as a deeply ecological religion, that seeks to protect the earth and it’s gifts to humans.

Whether you want to incorporate witchcraft into your life in a serious and dedicated manner, or simply want to explore this spiritual tradition, learning about it first is the way forward. Because it is such a poorly understood and much maligned spiritual tradition, many witches are very private about their beliefs. In fact, most will not reveal themselves to be witches. Whether you go on to join a coven, or merely incorporate magic into your life on a private level, you too can start to weave spells into your life in order to transform your day to day reality. Many novices start out by practicing what I like to describe as “practical magic” – spells that can be incorporated into your life without requiring much effort or time.

Here are two good everyday spells to add to your spell book.

Protection charm

If you are concerned about your own well-being, or the well-being of someone dear to you, make sure you (or that other person) carries something blue on the body. By wearing something blue on your person, you will ward off destructive or negative forces. A good tip for women is to sew blue ribbon into their bras and underwear so that no matter what you are wearing on the outside, you will always have something blue on your body to protect you.

For men, carrying blue beads in your pocket is one way of performing this charm. Although this is a simple charm to carry out, it is extraordinarily effective. I recently gave a blue bead on a string to a male friend of mine who had been unceremoniously dumped by his girlfriend. He told me that within a day of carrying the bead he had not only gotten over his negative feelings about his girlfriend, but had secured a highly lucrative art deal and was felt he was on a path of rebirth. He carries his blue bead everywhere as a matter of course now.

House charm

Many people want to know how they can protect their homes from negative forces. This is a very simple spell that ensures your home draws in positivity, friendship and love. It can be performed at any time, but I recommend your do it when your family or flat-mates are not present, as you do not want to be interrupted.

To cleanse the house of any negative spirits or emotions, you light a candle and go from room to room, reciting the qualities that you want to exist in your home. When I performed this spell, I went from room to room, saying things like “Peace”, “Happiness”, “Creativity”, “Love”, “Friends”, “Laughter” etc etc. Once you have visited every room, take a sprig of lavender and tie it above each external door. By tying lavender above the entrances to your house, you ensure that only good elements pass into it.

The two charms above show how easy it can be to practice magic. Whether you intend to delve more deeply into witchcraft, or merely incorporate a little “practical magic” into your life, witchcraft is a deeply spiritual and conscious religion that draws on ancient wisdom and knowledge that can truly enhance your life.

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What is Wicca, Really?

What is Wicca, Really? by LadySeluna

Wicca is often mistaken for Witchcraft. The truth of the matter is, Wicca is a religious faith all of its own. What might surprise many people even more is that Wicca is a very loving religious practice, one that demands its followers to adhere to strict ethics and high morals. Summed up, these ethics convey the Wiccan Law of "Harm None", which enforces those of Wiccan faith to be consistently mindful of their daily actions and resulting effects, and their interactions with mankind, animals, and the environment in which we live.

Wicca incorporates a combination of religious beliefs and practices. These include; Eastern Philosophy, Mystical Quabalah, and old European traditions. From Eastern Philosophy, Wicca derives its belief system of Cause and Effect, Karma and Reincarnation. The Quabalah lends its principles of Spiritual Evolution through 'path-working', as well as Esoteric Knowledges. And, from European tradition Wicca receives its passions and understandings of nature and many of its Deities.

What Do Wiccans Worship?

The foundation of Wicca is based on the teachings and belief that there are many forms of 'Divine Spirit' which reside with us here on Earth, as well as in 'Heavenly' Realms, all of which are benevolent, and accessible by mankind to assist us with our needs - both physical and spiritually. Many of these Divine Beings are found in Nature - in the elements, the sky, and the Earth 'Herself'.

How Do Wiccans Worship?

Wiccans base their primary observances on what is referred to as 'The Wheel of the Year'. This 'Wheel' contains eight times in each year where the changes of the seasons are celebrated by Ritual to pay tribute for the gifts and opportunities inherent in each season.

Examples include the asking for protection and needs to be meet during winter months, the 'calling forth' of spring (seed and planting time), and giving thanks for crop abundances in the autumn.

What Are "Wiccan Tools" and Why Are They Used?

During Rituals, Wiccans use 'tools' - or 'altar items', to assist them with their performances. These include athames, wands, chalices, bowls, candles, and pentacles. Most all of these items correlate with an element of nature, and each has a specific purpose to aid in rituals - which are often performed to portray the roles which Divine Spirits play in interacting and impacting our daily lives.

Wicca and Magick:

Much of the misconceptions about Wicca stem from its practice of performing 'magick'. This magick is often (wrongfully) attached to some type of devil-worship by those who do not take the time to research the facts. In truth, most Wiccans do not even believe in a devil. And, if they did, the Code of Ethics and Principles of Wicca would enforce its followers to stand clear of "him". Wicca promotes well-being unto all.

The Origins of Magick:

The art of performing magick dates back to prehistoric man, whereas tokens of appreciation were offered during semi-rituals by the tribes in hope of being granted particular blessings from the Gods of Old. The most common documented proof of the Gods that were believed in during this era were those of Fertility Goddesses and Gods of the Hunt, both of which were honored frequently in exchange for food and safety.

Magick Today:

Today, much of the makings of magick in Wicca is based on the same platform: Celebrations, dances, and feasts are performed to pay honor to particular Divine Spirits in exchange for blessings which are bestowed. Crafts are made and tokens are offered in the same fashion. These magicks range from elaborate gatherings of wiccan multitudes, to the less casual practices of solitary wiccans, whereas an individual (or group of a few) will perform smaller rituals to gain more personal-type blessings.

Other Tools of Craft:

It is believed by Wiccan's that most all natural materials, from stones to plants, with hold specific 'energies' which may be utilized in magick as additional aids for attaining specific results. The Most popular of natural materials is perhaps the usage of herbs. Herbs are incorporated into magick by way of making crafts by them for offerings and tokens of appreciation and honor. Herbs are a also incorporated into magickal workings for their large variety of pleasing fragrances, and for this reason are commonly used in incenses - which are burned during all religious ceremonies in effort to attract and compliment the Divine Spirits.

Wicca, during the past many years, has done much in the way of promoting religious tolerance in the publics eye. It is not within the religious practice of Wicca to solicit new members or reform those of other religious creeds. But rather, to teach, by example, the many blessings bestowed upon those who abide by the Law of Love, and kindness to all.

Each of the Great Religions of the World is based upon the teachings of making personal improvements and rising above our environments, helping those in need, and becoming more spiritually evolved. It seems impossible, therefore, that with so many similarities among various religions - that any particlar creed could be right or wrong.

With all of the struggles that separate mankind in today's world, I maintain that Religion should not be one of them. But in fact, should be a common ground that unites us all - despite a cultures 'name' for its God (or Goddesses) and the origins or mythic tales attached. I believe that "God" - in any aspect, is most likely BI-LINGUAL (speaking many languages) and is present to all cultures. I further suggest that any Almighty Being has better things to do than play monopoly among religious creeds. Education is the key, and there are many informative books on Wicca available.

The author of this article is Lady Seluna. To learn more about Wicca, please visit her site at http://www.Sacredshadows.net. For those of you in search of wiccan supplies, please visit: http://www.Sacredshadows.net/WiccanSupplies.htm for all of your magickal needs. You'll love our products and prices.

Wiccan Supplies

Article Source: NewAgeArticles.com

The 13 Preambles of Wicca

The 13 Preambles of Wicca by H.P. Thomas Moore

In addition to the “Wiccan Rede” there are also 13 articles that are followed. These preambles as they are called aid in attuning the self and becoming one with the earth and the spiritual world through study, self exploration and action. Each has lessons that are learned and not all are easy to complete. It is the drive to complete them and the knowledge that is rewarded as well as the spiritual alignment that makes them worth while. What follows is the list of the 13 Preambles, as well as a deeper understanding of each.

1: Know Yourself

2: Know your Craft

3: Learn

4: Apply Knowledge

5: Achieve Balance

6: Keep your thoughts in good order

7: Keep your words in good order

8: Celebrate life

9: Attune with the cycles of the Earth

10: Breathe and eat correctly

11: Exercise the body

12: Meditate

13: Honor the Goddess and God

As you can see from the preambles the worship of deities falls last on the list. I would like to approach that first before we go in depth into each article.

13: Honor the Goddess and God
The Goddess and God are within us as they are also within all living things on this Earth. In this case by following the first 12 articles you are already honoring the Goddess and God because they are a part of you. The 13th article is more about honoring the spirit or energy of the Goddess and God. This can be better achieved after one has attuned themselves by following the other articles. So though at first the 13 Preambles may seem egotistical in a way they are not once you explore them more fully. These 13 Preambles are nothing new, in fact many religions and cultures have them, though they are less stressed in other religions unless you plan on becoming a Priest or Pastor. They are known to us all on some level or another, and we may even follow these preambles without being a Wiccan. That is ok too; these are 13 good things to live by and can benefit anyone regardless of religious background or inspiration.

1: Know yourself
Self knowledge and awareness is something that we all strive to have. How are we going to work with the delicate energies that surround us if we first do not know what is self? This is a difficult one to achieve as there are still so many things out in our world that do not allow us to fully express ourselves as individuals that are aware and filled with love of the self. Once you come to a full understanding of who you are then it becomes easier to accept others for who they are as well. This acceptance becomes one of the first paths to peace. This is not only knowing the self, but accepting the self as well both must be achieved.

2: Know your Craft
How many people do you know that are fully aware of their religion? I’m not just talking about what their places of worship teach them, or what their holy book says. I am talking a full understanding from the conception of the religion to the modern day interpretations of it. Chances are that you do not know many. People tend to follow the teachings that they hear but do not look further into their religion as a whole, unless of course they have a degree in Theology that is. This article talks about having the full knowledge of what your religion is about. Wicca, like most religions is much deeper than the surface information that we are all aware of. It has tradition, it has its guiding forces and it has its incarnation. I know a lot of people that claim to be Wiccan or Pagan and yet have never read or studied the origins of the religion. How are you going to gain a deeper understanding and spiritual awareness if you do not know where you came from to start with? Know your Craft is just that, it is attaining the wisdom and knowledge of your religion.

3: Learn
What does the word learn mean? The dictionary defines Learn as “To gain knowledge, comprehension, or mastery of through experience or study” Learning is something that we do everyday. Each moment that we are alive we are learning and experiencing things. It is the knowledge that we get from experience and study that allows us to make choices in life as well as live our lives to the best and fullest that we are capable of. Think about what the world would be like if no one ever learned anything? Chances are you wouldn’t be reading this article right now because you didn’t learn to read! When we talk about learning here we are not only talking about the lessons that we have each day, we are also talking about the knowledge of the craft and learning our lessons on a spiritual and karmic level as well. To learn is to know, and to know is to grow.

4: Apply Knowledge
Once you have the knowledge from the learning you need to put it into practical application. Wisdom cannot be spread if people were to hide all of the knowledge that they have attained. This isn’t to say that you need to be pushy, but freely share what you know so that you can learn from someone else what they know. This also talks about the application of knowledge of the Rede as well as the Preambles in your life. Apply them fully and you can experience a life you had never thought was possible to explore.

5: Achieve Balance
Balance is important in any metaphysical way of thought just as it is in any religion or philosophy. You strive to achieve a balance of body, mind, and spirit through various forms and knowledge. Many of us have moments when we feel like this balance has been achieved, and yet it fades after a while. Remember that we are all human, and therefore a prone to making mistakes and it is ok to do so. There are of course some individuals out there Sai Baba for instance that has fully attained this type of balance, but for most of us it will come and go. The main lesson is to allow it to come and when it leaves learn and apply what you have learned to attain it once again.

6: Keep your Thought is Good Order
This article is twofold in nature. First it talks about the power of positive thought. Not allowing negative thought patterns to enter your mind is a large part of keeping thoughts in good order. The more that you focus on positive things the more that you will attract those things, as we know from learning about the power of intention. Second, it talks about thinking before you speak. So many people blurt out what they want to say regardless of if it is going to damage someone else in thought or emotion. Think hard about what you are going to say before it is said. Make a conscious effort to plan your words carefully so that what you say can aid in allowing for the greatest good for the persons that you are speaking to.

7: Keep your Words in Good Order
This follows suit to article 6 above. After you have thought about what you are going to say carefully speak those words. Speak in a manner that is soothing and peaceful and try to avoid emotions like anger, hate and frustration in your speech. We can get so caught up in an emotional swirl that we sometimes forget to not express that in our speech. We can certainly tell the person how we are feeling and that sort of discussion is great, that way no one leaves feeling unwanted or insecure with themselves.

8: Celebrate Life
Live each and every day to the fullest that you can experience it. See each day as a new lesson to be learned and do not hold grudges or allow things to bring you down. Sometimes focusing on the day to day living can be the most rewarding, then we are not feeling any anxiety about what the future may hold for us and instead can truly experience life.

9: Attune with the Cycles of the Earth
For Wiccans this one is done quite often. Every Sabbat that we celebrate aids us in attuning to the cycles of the Earth, but there is more to it than just that. Attuning with the Earth also means to love and care for the planet on which you live. Strive to aid the Earth in life. Living Green, planting trees, aiding nature and its inhabitants all help you to attune yourself with the Earth. If we learn to attune ourselves sand aid in taking care of our planet than Mother Gaia will see to it that we are taken care of as well.

10: Breathe and Eat Correctly
Remember that old adage “The Body is a Temple”? As we talked about before with article 13 the Goddess and God inhabit us all, just as they do all creatures. Taking care of the body by incorporating healthy living plays a part in honoring the Goddess and God. This does not mean in any way that you have to live on nuts, twigs and berries! It only means that you are being cautious of what you put into your body. Be aware of what you ingest and how it is going to affect your body and its systems.

11: Exercise the Body
This falls into the article above in a stronger fashion. Not only taking care of the body through eating correctly but also through exercise. It is the strength of the body that aids in the strength of the spirit and mind. Doing these can aid as well in achieving the balance from article 5.

12: Meditate
We are all aware of the importance of meditation. It helps us to know what is self and what is not self as well as to connect us with our Higher Self and Guides. Meditation is exercise for the mind and spirit. Meditating in addition to the two articles above become the base foundations for achieving the balance in life. Finding the time to relax the mind can aid us in so many ways and becomes an important aspect to living.

These are the 13 Preambles of Wicca. They are guidelines to follow in order to experience life to the fullest and attune oneself with the spiritual world as well as the physical. Work slowly when following the Preambles, don’t rush them or jump ahead, or you will only cheat yourself in the long run. Take each for what it is and learn the lessons that they have to teach you fully.

Rev. Thomas Moore is High Priest of The Coven of L.I.G.H.T in South West Florida, as well as a professional Psychic and Healer. He teaches a variety of classes in the metaphysical field as well as Wicca and is the Store Manager for Starchild Books in Port Charlotte Florida.

www.starchildbooks.com
http://inperfectloveinperfecttrust.webs.com

Article Source: NewAgeArticles.com