Monday, September 12, 2011

Fall Equinox Newsletter

Fall Equinox- ca. September 21st
    This is the 2nd of 3 harvest festivals and just like Lughnassadh, all over the world, homage is being paid to the last sheaf of corn being cut from the harvest field. The last sheaf is believed to embody the spirit of the corn. To ensure good harvest yields, it was necessary to keep this spirit alive so the sheaf became the center of an incredible ritual that, in spite of its Pagan overtones, has remained in many countries around the globe. The last sheaf of corn was braided or bound into wreathes, brooms or other crafts. The Corn Mother has always ruled this day whether she is called Demeter, Persephone, Cerridwen, Bride/Bridget, the Callieach, the Corn Maiden, Mother Corn, the First Mother, Selu or Kahesana Xaskwim. Day and night are equal now. This is the beginning of Persephone’s descent into the underworld. With Her leaving we see the decline and withering of nature and the coming of Winter.

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Sunday, September 11, 2011

September Assignment Assignment Sixth


This is for our first degree students, and those who wish to learn more about the pagan world. 
Assignment 6: 
Who is Dr. Gerald Gardner? 
What was his role in the Magic community? 
The length of this report dos not matter, what matters is that you find the information to write a report.
You can send your reports to our e-mail thecupwa@yahoo.com
These are counted as extra credit for our students.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Superstitions

It is unlucky to give or receive parsley because only the wicked are thought to be able to grow it. Transplanting parsley is also bad luck because it was believed that to transplant parsley was to transplant death.
Flowers carried on to an airplane are ill omened, especially if they are a bouquet of white and red flowers.
Never carry an axe on your shoulder through a house.
If you must carry one through a house, carry it lowered.
To insure good fortune for your baby throughout life, be sure that his first gift is a silver coin. Place it yourself into the child's hand. If the child drops it, s/he will have difficulty holding onto money throughout life.
Gift the child with an old fashioned red coral and silver bell teething ring.
The coral to ward off the evil eye, the silver bells for good fortune.
Spit on your new bat before using it for the first time.
A bat falling in front of a ballplayer foretells an injury in the next game played.
A bat falling in front of the team manager foretells a loosing season.
Never place your bed pointing north and south. It brings misfortune.
Never kill a bee, it is as unlucky as breaking a mirror.
If a bee enters your home, it is a sign that you will soon have a visitor.
However, if you drive the bee out of your home, you will have bad luck, or the visitor will be unpleasant.
In some parts of the United States, a black cat crossing your path is thought to be unlucky. In Britain, it is considered good luck.
Having a black cat as your household companion is considered very good luck.
If a strange black cat enters your home uninvited, you will have great fortune throughout the year. If you shoo it away, it will take it's gift of good luck with it.
A black cat aboard ship is a very good omen... if your man is a sailor keep a black cat in your home to insure his safety while at sea.
It is bad luck to sweep dust out of your house onto the porch. Always sweep towards the center of the room, and take it up in a dust pan from there.
"If you sweep the house with broom in May "You will sweep the head of the house away."
To insure a loving marriage, both bride and groom must join hands and jump over the besom laid on the floor.
To prevent an unwanted guest from returning, sweep out the room they stayed in immediately after they leave.
Blue flame augers death in the family.
The Yule Candle should be burned until it burns out naturally.
Never light three candles with one match...nor have just three candles burning.
If a cat sneezes rain is not far behind
If a cat sneezes thrice, the household will get the sniffles
It is good fortune, for a bride, on her wedding day, to be near a cat which sneezes, on that day.
A child born with a caul will have second site.
The caul must be preserved and carried with the person born with it, for good luck.
The caul must be buried or cremated with the person born with it, or that spirit will never be at rest.
Carrying a lump of coal brings good luck.
The first person to enter your home on New Year's day should bring a bit of coal, so that the household enjoys good luck throughout the New Year.
Never pass up a piece of coal lying on the ground. For good luck pick it up. If you do not wish to keep it, you must throw it back over your shoulder.
If someone dies in your family, you must:
· Stop all the clocks
· Cover all mirrors with a black cloth or turn it face towards the wall.
· Let the household fire go out.
· Open all doors and windows
ALL omens lose their meanings during a SOLAR eclipse, and for up to three days before, and three days after. This period of time is completely neutral; meaning neither good nor ill omens have effect.
LUNAR eclipses are just plain unlucky. The effects last for 7 days total.
People said to have the 'Evil Eye':
· People with eyes of different colors.
· People with eyes set too deeply in the sockets.
· People with eyes too close together.
· People with one eye lower than the other, which squints.
People with long fingers are spendthrifts.
Vampire's have an index finger as long or longer than their second finger.
People with crooked little fingers will be rich someday.
If you drop a glove, never pick it up yourself; bad luck will follow if you do.
It is a very good omen if a stranger picks it up for you.
Only cut your hair during the 14 days between the New Moon and the Full moon.
If anywhere on the right side of your body itches, it's a good omen.
If anywhere on the left side of your body itches, it's a bad omen.
If your right palm itches, you will soon be getting some money.
If your left palm itches, you will soon be paying out money.
If your right ear itches, someone is talking nicely of you.
If your left ear itches, someone is talking bad about you.
If your right eye itches, you will get a nice surprise.
If your left eye itches, you will get a nasty surprise.
If your eyebrow itches, you can expect a visitor.
If the soles of your feet itch, you will soon be going to a strange place.
When going on a journey, do not look back at your house; to do so is a
bad omen.
If you drop your keys, it means something bad is going to happen.
If you lose your keys, you will hear of a death.
Carry an old iron key in your right pocket for good luck.
Never walk under a ladder.
Don't reach for anything, or hand anything through the ladder's rungs.
You will get a letter if:
· A moth flies towards you.
· If your nose itches.
· If you develop a white spot on the nail of your ring finger.
· If you sneeze on a Wednesday.
· If you are expecting a delayed letter; hang a found hairpin up by a nail on your wall.
· Never put a letter into the left hand of your friend, or your friendship
· will end.
Never refuse a piece of mincemeat pie that someone offers you, to do so
brings a full year of bad luck.
Break a mirror, have seven years bad luck.
Never let a baby look in a mirror until it is at least a year old; to do so the baby will not grow well.
A whole nutmeg carried in the pocket wards off rheumatism.
If the nutmeg is filled with quick-silver and plugged, it brings the carrier good luck.
If you hear a hoot owl persistently screeching near a home, death will come to a member of that household.
If an owl perches on the roof of a house, or flies around it three times, a member of that household will die soon.
If an owl hoots within the hearing of a mother giving birth, her child's life will be difficult.
If you are walking and find a steel pin on the ground, pick it up and keep it for good luck.
It is unlucky to lend pins to a friend; lest your friendship end. If your friend gives you something in return, the ill omen is averted.
Ancient Roman bridal couples shared a quince to ensure marital happiness.
Dress your little girl in red, or at the least put a red ribbon in her hair, to protect her from evil.
Finding a spider in the evening is always lucky.
Finding a spider in the morning is unlucky.
If a tiny spider runs over your clothes, you will be able to afford better clothes soon. Wind the spider around your head three times to be assured of it.
Never put shoes on the dining room table, it is very unlucky.
Never put a pair of bellows on the table.
Never set thirteen people down to dinner, or one will die within a year.
Never open an umbrella indoors, it brings bad luck and intensifies any other bad omen that is occurring.
Don't go out with your umbrella open on a sunny day, lest you attract rain.
Never lay an umbrella on the bed, or unhappiness will result.
Don't give an umbrella as a gift; or misfortune will go with it.
Hang Vervain over your doorway to protect your home from evil.
Rub vervain over anything that has been exposed to the evil eye.
An old French superstition is that every time you wash your body, you wash off some of your life essence.
If you and another wash your hands under the same flow of water, at the same time, you will argue before nightfall.
If someone gives you Xanthium, they are saying that you are rude.
Carry yarrow to attract love, and old friends.
Carrying three white tail hairs and three black tail hairs of a zebra will let you find lost items.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Knock On Wood

I woke this morning and was  talking to my husband about my daughter's car. It's been giving us some trouble, as of late. Seems like every time we turn around we've got to have it worked on. It isn't too bad since my husband is fluent in car parts/engines, but it is annoying. I was saying that her car seems to be working well, "Knock on Wood". It got me to thinking about where that phrase comes from. I like words and phrases and cliches. I like to know their origins, their beginnings so I got to think about it and what it might mean.
      It got me to thinking about trees and Dryads and other tree spirits. So I did a little research and I thought it was interesting. So here it is along with some pretty pictures of dryads and other tree spirits at the end.
       The phrase itself is considered to be a bit of superstitious doggerel. People use this phrase and the action it describes to prevent bad luck. In addition to the way I used it above, you can also use the phrase if you are wishful that something would happen. Like if you were making vacation plans you'd say, "We're driving to Florida tomorrow, 'knock wood' nothing bad happens. 
       Although the actual origin of the phrase is unknown, there are a lot of guesses. There are several theories about the origin of this very common practice. One goes back to the child's game of `tag.' In one version of this game the child who is able to touch a tree, thereby touching wood, is free from capture.
      Then there is a Biblical theory that the wood symbolizes the cross on which Christ was crucified. In Galatians (6:14) we find `But God forbid that I should glory, save the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.' The theory here is that if you have made an exaggerated boast you will be forgiven if you turn your thoughts to the Cross.
      Still another notion is that `knocking on wood' goes far back into ancient times, when spirits were thought to live in trees. So should danger threaten, simply rap on the trunk of a tree and summon up the aid of the good spirit within.
     There is a  Irish belief that you `knock on wood' to let the leprechauns or other tree spirits know that you are thanking them for a bit of good luck or letting them know that you are there.
     A Jewish version says it originated during the Spanish Inquisition under Torquemada during the 1490s. During that time Jews were in flight and since temples and synagogues were built of wood, they evolved a code to use in knocking on doors to gain admission. Since this resulted in lives being saved, it became commonplace to `knock on wood' for good luck.
      In Britain, touch wood, had an earlier Latin version used when touching wood - absit omen!, meaning 'far be that omen from us'. This dates from at least the early 17th century. Knock on wood - the American version, is known from the early 20th century.

I actually wrote this sometime last Spring. Since then we've had to do a few minor repairs to my daughter's car, but thankfully, nothing major, knock on wood.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

The Power of Intent

Before using any herbs, stones or other tools in your ritual workings, they need to be cleansed and charged or empowered with the intent you want them to bring to the ritual. Hold the stone to be charged in the closed palm of your receptive hand. Ask the stone’s spirit for permission to charge it with your purpose. Place the stone in your power hand. Concentrate your purpose into your right hand and down into the stone. Thank the spirit of the stone. You can say something like, “Spirit of crystal, I empower you to help me clear my mind and find inner peace within when I become scattered and lost.”

When you are able to, it is always best to harvest your own herbs for ritual. Before you harvest, be sure to ask permission of the herb’s spirit. As you cut the herb, be sure to empower it by concentrating the purpose for the spell into the herb. You can verbalize this if you like. You can say something like, “Spirit of lavender, as I cut, know that it be not in vain. Know that I will use your essence to bless my altar so that I may better serve the Lord and Lady,” or words to that affect. If you purchase the herb, the same charging needs to take place. Remember to use herbs for magical purposes immediately.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Sympathetic Magick Part 2

PROTECTION
In the Home:
1. It’s good to have at least three amulets of protection in the home near the house altar, on or near doors and windows or near the hearth.
2. Protective stones can be placed in white pouches and tied with red yarn. For the greatest effect, mix different kinds of stones together and perhaps a few herbs as well.
3. Fossils can be placed on window sills, hearths or ceiling beams.

In the Kitchen:
1. Aloe Vera is grown in the kitchen window for protection, as are African Violet and cacti.
2. Hang a rope of garlic or cloves on the window sill.
3. Hang lead glass crystal sun catchers in the window.

HUNGER
1. Fill a small jar with alfalfa and keep it in the cupboard to ensure it will always be full of food stores.
2. Place a mortar and pestle in the kitchen window
3. Be sure to put a little food from each meal outside as an offering.

INDOOR GARDEN
1. Aloe Vera, African Violet- kitchen protection.
2. African Violet- spirituality, peace, Goddess
3. Peace Lily- protection, peace, harmony
4. Lavender- blessing
5. Cactus- protection- have 1 growing in a window of each direction
6. Norfolk island pine for Yule

OUTSIDE GARDEN
1. Psychic powers- honeysuckle, marigold, roses, thyme
2. Loving household- hyacinth, lavender, morning glory
3. Money- mint, chamomile, clover, dill, basil
4. Prosperity- pine, oak, apple trees
5. Luck- sunflower, hydrangea
6. Vegetation Deity for magical gardens- Pomona, Pan, Faunus, Tammuz, Enkimdu, Bacchus, Dionysus, Priapus, Isis, Demeter and Adonis

GARDEN ALTAR
1. Deity statues
2. A small rectangular rock placed up right on the ground like a pillar with a flat rounded rock in front as offering stone. You can also use an old tree stump.
3. Place bits of grain, gemstones, money, milk, water or wine on the altar in honor of Goddess.
4. Burn stick incense (poked in the ground) weekly and in conjunction with new plantings in garden.
5. Place small images of animals in the garden.

GARDEN GUARDIAN
1. Take an image, statue or stone and standing in your garden.
2. Lift the image ceremonially to the 4 directions.
3. Pour red wine or apple cider over the stone to empower it with life.
4. Charge it with your powers of visualization to magically guard the garden and house and all that dwells within them.
5. Place the guardian in a focal spot in the garden.

FOR CARS
1. Place hematite inside the car in the glove box.
2. Make an infusion of bay, rosemary or dill. Use in a spray bottle to spray the car.
3. Sprinkle salt onto the car’s hood, roof & floor inside.
4. Put small pouch of rosemary, dill & basil in the car’s hubcap for protection.
5. Quartz Crystal: sit in the car with a crystal in your power hand. Firmly visualize your car and everything that will ever be within it guarded from danger. See your car bathed in the glow of magical protective blue light or flames. Visualize it remaining in perfect working order. Place it somewhere safe in the car. You may place it in a pouch in the glove box or somewhere else.
6. A bit of plantain leaf or tiger’s eye placed in the car are two more good protective talismans.

PROSPERITY
1. Burn Basil, clove, dill, nutmeg, pine needles, sage, chamomile and/or cinnamon over coals while chanting: “Bring me what I need. Only what I need. So mote it be!” Three times.
2. Place 7 coins, violet leaves, cinquefoil, aventurine, tiger’s eye, citrine, black obsidian in a green bag.

Sympathetic magic is about keeping it simple. The easiest solutions usually win out over the complications of long, drawn out ceremonies and rituals. A statue of one of your favorite ferocious animals sitting on your front porch will act as a deterrent for any negative energy trying to get in your home. Sit a statue of a lion on your porch and imagine him protecting you and yours from all danger. Visualize streams of purple energy coming from his eyes driving away all evil spirits and energy in the vicinity. Place a little hematite next to your lion to mirror away any stray bad vibes and you’re good to go.

One of my favorite things about sympathetic magic is that sometimes all you need is the color scheme. When first starting down this path, it can be daunting to find the right materials to cast that spell for abundance or healing. I have found that if all you have are some old aquarium stones in the garage, that’s good enough. As long as you’ve got the colors you need, you’re on your way. I’m also a fan of sachets; little bags of herbs smelling up the room with good vibrations of whatever you need at the moment. Need some peace and harmony, get yourself some lavender in hang it in a bag above your bed along with some sage for purification and rosemary for protection. Remember, less is more.

In part from Scott Cunningham's The Magical Household

Monday, August 29, 2011

Sympathetic Magick Part 1

Before beginning any magical work it is very important that you understand how powerful spell craft can be. It’s imperative that you word your spells in an extremely specific way. If you do a money spell don’t just say, “Send me money.” You may wake up with a phone call the following week telling you of the death of a loved one who left you a large sum of money. It’s better to ask for a raise at work or even a lucky lottery ticket. At least that way no one gets hurt. It’s always good to remember the three-fold law: Whatever you put out into the universe will come back to you three times as much. So if you’re helping sweet old ladies across the street then all is well, but if you go and trip those poor sweet old ladies then you will get that back too. That’s how works. You get back what you put into it. So keep in mind the Wiccan Rede: An it Harm None, Do What Thou Wilt. It just means that you can do whatever you need to do as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone, including you.

CANDLE MAGIC
This is one of the simplest forms of magic. All you need are different colored candles, a good imagination and a strong will. Candle magic utilizes the vibrations that color puts forth into the universe. By using corresponding color/property pairs, you can construct a simple, easy spell in a matter of minutes. You may also just use a white candle in replace of any color candle as white is for spirit.

There are various ways do candle magic. One way is to let the candle burn all the way out. For instance, if you were doing a candle spell for loving kindness you would need a pink candle. I like to carve symbols into my candles that speak to their purpose. In this case, I would carve a heart into the side of the candle. I would then place the candle in a safe holder and put it on a pink cloth surrounded by rose quartz, apple blossoms and cherry blossoms. You could anoint it with orange oil if you like. As you light the candle, visualize a warm glow coming toward you from the universe. Let it envelop. Let it make you feel warm, safe and loved. Pray to the Goddess to send you loving kindness and thank Her. Meditate on the kind of love you would like to receive while understanding that to get love you must also give love. If you’re going to let the candle burn all the way out, you might want to consider buying a smaller candle so it doesn’t take days.

You can do the spell above a little differently if you would like. Instead of letting the candle burn all the way down, let the candle burn for three minutes every morning from the New Moon to the Full Moon. As the New Moon grows in size in the sky, so will the amount of loving kindness coming your way. Three minutes represents the Triple Goddess; the Maiden, Mother and Crone.

Another way is to take a needle and pierce the side of the candle in the center so that it goes in one side and comes out the other. How far from the top of the candle is up to you. Light the candle as before and snuff it out when it burns down to the needle.

This last spell requires that you write down on a piece of paper that which you desire. If, for instance, you want to quit smoking and you’re using a red candle for willpower, then you should write down on a red piece of paper that you want to quit smoking. For this one, you can also use black for banishing as in banishing a bad habit away from you.

As you can see, these are elementary spells, but even the most experienced Wiccan still does a candle spell from time to time. You don’t always need to burn candles for sympathetic magic. It can also just be a matter of placing certain things at certain spots around the home inside and out, something special tucked in a pocket, symbols drawn on a door or herbs burned in the hearth or outside bonfire.

HEARTH MAGIC
My favorite thing about my house is my wood stove. Although not a true hearth, it is the heart of our home in the cold winter months. It is life sustaining and comforting with the element of fire exuding from the hot coals inside. I like hearth magic and the feeling it gives me. That feeling that all is well with the world because my home fires are burning. It’s a small wood stove, but it manages to heat my entire home. I like that we can be oil free and at the same time, burn magical hickory and oak, with their warming solar energies.

Magic doesn’t always have to be about healing and protection. Sometimes it’s just fun. And if you’re lucky, you get both at the same time. That’s why I love hearth magic. You get to have the glowing embers heating body and spirit while you perform spells and rituals nearby.

Different woods that you burn in the fire have different energies that smoke out of them. Oak is wonderful for healing magic and spells for wisdom, strength and, of course, protection. You can also burn apple wood for love or throw in cedar for purification and sage for cleansing. Your home’s fireplace can be a spell in and of itself, not to mention the elemental aspect of Fire that goes hand in hand.

In addition to what you burn, you can also divine from the way it burns through fire or coal gazing. Much like a crystal ball, the fire or coals can draw you in and show you many things if you ask it. Apple wood, sandalwood, cedar and juniper mixed together and thrown on the fire will do the trick.

The ashes are magical as well. A pentagram drawn in the ashes of the fireplace blesses the hearth. Ashes are considered sacred and magical. Scattering them on the roof, around the outside of the home or in room corners protects the home from a variety of negative influences. Carries in a red bag, the ashes will help you screw up your courage or place the ashes around a blue candle for healing.
Another magical use for the hearth is the kind of wood you burn. If you’re feeling under the weather, throw in a log or two of oak. If your finances aren’t what they should be, try burning some pine. Apple wood is for love and juniper for protection. You can burn them and many other woods separately or together. You can also throw in some herbs for good measure.

Once you’ve got the fire burning nice and hot, don’t forget to do some fire gazing. It’s just what it sounds like. You gaze into the fire to discern shapes and signs foretelling the future or answering a question you hold in your mind. Mix some sandalwood, juniper and cedar together and throw on the flames before gazing.

DOORS AND OTHER THRESHOLDS
A wonderful way to protect your home, aside from the baseball bat you keep at the door and the security alarm, is hanging different herbs and other things, by the doors and windows. Pentagrams drawn on window sills with chalk is used to keep negative energy away as is salt strewn across the front door threshold. Any combination of herbs, stones, etc. can be used. Be creative. It is long held that brooms laid down on the floor in front of the door keeps unwanted visitors away.

You can also put things in place to bring love, prosperity, happiness and health into the home. A piece rose quartz placed under a growing rose bush in the front garden will draw love. Tomatoes placed on window sills will call money to your home. Train morning glories to twine around a porch pole to bring happiness into your life and that plantain that grows in everyone’s yard promotes health and healing.

There’s literally no end to what you can do with sympathetic magic. Just remember that with this simplest of the magics, like affects or attracts like or put another way, it’s imitation magic. In folk magic, if you make a physical representation of someone like a carving in a potato or a hand sewn doll, and then do something to that image, you are causing that same thing to happen to the person the doll represents. You’re probably thinking of Voodoo dolls right now, but there’s a better direction to go in. Make a doll for someone who is ill and unable to be near you for a healing spell. Use that doll in the spell instead to help aid in the healing process.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Subject: A letter from *Mom* and *Dad*

Subject: A letter from *Mom* and *Dad*

From: God/dess
To: Our Children of Earth
Re: Idiotic Religious Rivalries

Dear Children (and believe us, that's all of  you), We consider ourselves pretty patient folks. For instance, look at the Grand Canyon. It took millions of years to get it right. And about evolution? Boy, nothing is slower than designing that whole Darwinian thing to take place, cell by cell, and gene by gene.
We've been patient through your fashions, civilizations, wars and schemes, and the countless ways you take Us for granted until you get yourselves into big trouble again and again.
We want to let you know about some of the things that are starting to tick Us off.

First of all, your religious rivalries are driving Us up a wall. Enough already! Let's get one thing straight: These are YOUR religions, not Ours. We're the whole enchilada; We're beyond them all. Every one of your religions claims there is only one of Us (which by the way, is absolutely true). But in the very next breath, each religion claims it's Our favorite one.
And each claims it's scriptures were written personally by Us, and that all the other scriptures are man-made. Oy Vey. How do We even begin to put a stop to such complicated nonsense?

Okay, listen up now. We're your Father AND Mother, and We don't play favorites among Our children.
Also, We hate to break it to you, but We don't write. Our longhand is awful, and We've always been more of "doers" anyway. So ALL of your books, including those Bibles, were written by men and women. They were inspired, remarkable people, but they also made mistakes here and there. We made sure of that so that you would never trust a written word more than your own living heart.

You see, one human being to Us, even a bum on the street, is worth more than all the Holy Books in the world. That's just the kind of folks we are.
Our spirit is not a historical thing. It's alive right here, right now, as fresh as your next breath.

Holy books and religious rites are sacred and powerful, but not more so than the least of you. They were only meant to steer you in the right direction, not to keep you arguing with each other, and certainly not to keep you from trusting your own personal connection with Us.

Which brings Us to Our next point about your nonsense. You act like We need you and your religions to stick up for Us or "win souls" for Our sake. Please, don't do Us any favors. We can stand quite well on our own, thank you. We don't need you to defend Us, and We don't need constant credit. We just want you to be good to each other.

And another thing, We don't get all worked up over money or politics, so stop dragging Our names into your dramas. For example, We swear to Us smile::::, that We never threatened Oral Roberts. We never rode in any of Rajneesh's Rolls Royces. We never told Pat Robertson to run for president, and We've never, EVER had a conversation with Jim Baker, Jerry Falwell, or Jimmy Swaggart! Of course, come Judgment Day, We certainly intend to....
The thing is, We want you to stop thinking of religion as some sort of loyalty pledge to Us.

The true purpose of your religions is so that YOU can become more aware of Us, not the other way around. Believe Us, We know you already. We know what's in each of your hearts, and We love you with no strings attached.
Lighten up and enjoy Us. That's what religion is best for. What you seem to forget is how mysterious We are.

You look at the petty differences in your Scriptures and say, "Well, if THIS is the truth, then THAT can't be!" But instead of trying to figure out Our Paradoxes and Unfathomable Nature, which by the way, you NEVER will, why not open your hearts to the simple common threads in all religions.

You know what We're talking about. Love and respect everyone. Be kind, even when life is scary or confusing. Take courage and be of good cheer, for We are always with you. Learn how to be quiet, so you can hear Our still, small voice. (We don't like to shout).

Leave the world a better place by living your life with dignity and gracefulness, for you are Our Own Children. Hold back nothing from life, for the parts of you that can die surely will, and the parts that can't, won't. So don't worry, be happy. (We stole that last line from Bobby McFerrin.)

Simple stuff. Why do you keep making it so complicated? It's like you're always looking for an excuse to be upset. And We're very tired of being your main excuse. Do you think We care whether you call Us.... Yahweh, Jehovah, Allah, Diana, Wakantonka, Brahma, Cerridwen, Father, Mother, God, Goddess or even the Void of Nirvana? Do you think We care which of Our special children you feel closest to, Jesus, Mary, Buddha, Krishna, Gerald, Mohammed or any of the others? You can call Us and Our Special Ones any name you choose, if only you would go about Our business of loving one another as We love you. How can you keep neglecting something so simple?

We're not telling you to abandon your religions. Enjoy your religions, honor them, learn from them, just as you should enjoy, honor, and learn from your parents.

But do you walk around telling everyone that your parents are better than theirs? Your religion, like your parents, may always have the most special place in your hearts, We don't mind that at all. And We don't want you to combine all the Great Traditions in One Big Mess. Each religion is unique for a reason. Each has a unique style so that people can find the best path for themselves.

Know that Our Special Children, the ones that your religions revolve around, all live in the same place, (Our heart), and they get along perfectly, We assure you.
The clergy must stop creating a myth of sibling rivalry where there is none. Our blessed children of Earth, the world has grown too small for your pervasive religious bigotries and confusion. The whole planet is connected by air travel, satellite dishes, telephones, fax machines, rock concerts, diseases, and mutual needs and concerns.

Get with the program! If you really want to help, then commit yourselves to figuring out how to feed your hungry, clothe your naked, protect your abused, and shelter your poor. And just as importantly, make your own everyday life a shining example of kindness and good humor. We've given you all the resources you need, if only you abandon your fear of each other and begin living, loving and laughing together.


We're not really ticked off. We just wanted to grab your attention because We hate to see you suffer. But We have given you free will to choose your own paths, and We just want you to be happy.
In Perfect Love and Perfect Trust,
Us

*Not sure who wrote this, but I absolutely love it!*

Saturday, August 27, 2011

The Element of Earth

EARTH- To Keep Silent

Affirmation- I am strong

Age of Man- old age, death

Alchemical Element Equivalent- salt

Alchemical Metal- lead

Angelic Elemental Ruler - Phorlakh

Animals- buffalo, stag, otter, cow, bull, ox, bison, most four legged animals that go by night, sphinx, hare, dog, snake, horses, gophers

Animals World Totems- Mythic Creatures, buffalo, moose, stage deer, mountain lions, owls, dragons, night birds, earth, wisdom, connectors.

Archangel- Uriel/Auriel

Basic Nature- Fertile, Moist, Nurturing, Stabilizing, Grounding

Bija- Lam (Laung)

Bodily Liquids- black bile

Body Organs- large intestines

Buddha Mantra- Mam

Celtic Name- Tuath

Chakra- base, root

Characteristics- massive, insulator, resists motion, non compressible/expandable, endurance, stable, solid, non-mutable, receptive to water, female, renews and nourishes, fertile, moist, nurturing, stabilizing, grounding; earth manifests itself through gravity, stability, food, wealth, crops, animals, home, mountains, strength, grounding, protecting, nature, death/rebirth, crystallizes, grounds, dries, confines.

Chemical Element- carbon

Colors- green, brown, black (shamanic); yellow- ceremonial

Consciousness- memory

Creation Gods- Earth Mother

Creative Process- form

Days of the Week- Thursday, Saturday

Death Rites- earth burial

Demon King of the Goetia- Arnaimon Zimimay

Demon Prince- Mahazael

Dialectic Process- result – thesis, manifestation

Dimensions- magical

Direction- north

Direction of View- past

Divine Names- Adonai ha Aretz (Lord of Earth)

Druidic Tool- Holey Blue Stone

Eastern Polarity- yin

Egyptian King- Apephi (ape)

Egyptian Son- Mestha (Hapi): Horus’s ape-headed son

Elemental Being- gnomes, elves, dwarfs and trolls who inhabit the interior of the earth
and are the consciousness of precious gems, minerals and the earth herself

Elemental King- Ghob

Elemental Ruler- Kerub

Energy Flow- base of spine up

Energy Type- Receptive

Enochian Divine Name- MORDIALHCTGA

Enochian Elemental King- THAHAAOTAHE

Enochian Worlds- NANTA

Evangelists- Luke

Familial Aspect- mother

Feeling- centeredness, rigidity

Gender- feminine, receptive

Goddesses- Anu, Brigantia, Branwen, Ceres, Cerridwen, Demeter, Freya, Gaia, Hera, Nephthys, Parvati, Persephone, Prithivi, Rhea, Rhiannon. Dark.

Gods- Adonis, Athos, Arawn, Cernunnos, Dionysus, Mabon, Marduk, Osiris, Pan, Tammuz.

Hand- middle finger

Hebrew Letters- heh (final)

Hebrew Name- Aretz: means land

Human Elements- physical body

Image- mountains, caves, gems, fields, rocks, landscape, plants and animals, fruit,
money, machinery

Incense- musk, earthy, storax, benzoin
3 pts patchouli
2 pts pine
1 pt bistort
1 pt vervain

Influences- Alcoholism, Animals, Apartments, Bills, Business, Success, Earth, Employment, House, Jealousy, Money, Prosperity, Fertility, Stabilizing, Grounding, Riches, Treasures, Surrendering self-will, Touch, Empathy, Incorporation, Material objects, Foundation, Conservation, Ecology

Irish- Talamh

Judiciary Process- experience

Jungian Functions- senses, sensation

Kitchen- the food itself

Levels of Understanding- literal, tangible

Magical Action- to keep silent

Magical Process- materialization

Metals- lead, iron, mercury

Methods- historical

Mineral World Totems- crystals of wisdom, stones for rituals, specific lessons and purposes, highly symbolic messages.

Miscellaneous Info- ley lines, dowsing, stones circles, sacred sites, Feng Shui (Chinese Earth Magic)

Moon Phase- Waning

Musical Instruments- Drums, All percussion instruments

Mythological Beings- giants, leprechauns, trolls

Natural Symbols- Salt, Clay dish of fresh soil, Rocks, Sheaves of wheat, Acorns

Nature- mountains, fields

Negative Characteristics- greedy, sensualist, materialistic, stodgy, narrow-minded, boring, tunnel-vision, materialistic, unreliable, careless, tasteless, lazy, non- progressive

Norse Dwarf- Nordhir

Ogham- Aicme Ailim

Oils- Cypress, Mimosa, Oakmoss, Patchouli, Rose, Tonka, Vetiver

Part of Person- body

Personality Types- gloomy, sullen, dejected

Physical Action- sleep, experiencing unity

Physical Properties- solid

Physical State- solid

Place on Pentagram- lower left

Places- Caves, Canyons, Chasms, Forests, Groves, Valleys, Fields, Farms, Gardens, Arboretums, Parks, Plant nurseries, Farmer's markets, kitchens, Baby nurseries, Basements, Mines, Holes

Plane- physical, etheric

Planets- Jupiter, Saturn, Venus

Plants/Herbs/Trees- apples, ash, bald cypress, comfrey, dwarf elm, elbow bush, hawthorn, Indian grass, inland sea oats, ivy, comfrey, grass, grains: barley, oats, corn, rice, rye, wheat; oak, patchouli, Texas persimmon, vetiver, wheat- Earth smelling

Plant World Totems- oak trees; Ceremonial Incense: honeysuckle, sagebrush, rye, Magnolia, myrrh, patchouli, earth grains, root vegetables, small ground cover plants: aluja, ivy.

Point in Life- Advanced Age

Positive Characteristics- reliable, punctual, stable, persevering, wise, Endurance, Material World


Posture- arms extended palms down

Professional Status- tradesman, industrial worker, crafts person, farmer, financier, builder

Qabalistic Action- stability

Qabalistic Sephiroth- Malkuth/Kingdom

Qabalistic Words- Assiah: World of Action

Quality-teaching

Ritual Work- ancestors, business, ecology, empathy, employment, fertility, grounding,
health, herb lore, household, incorporation, knot magic, midnight, money, nature, night, prosperity, protection, riches, rune casting, stability, success, surrendering of self-will, touch, treasures, tree magic, Winter, Burying, Planting, Making in images in soil or sand, Gardening, Magnetic, Image, Stone, Tree, Knotbinding.

Rules- the body, growth, nature, sustenance, material gain, money, creativity, birth, death, silence, chasms, caves, caverns, groves, fields, rocks, standing stones, mountains, crystal, jewels, metal.

Runes- Fehu, Wunjo, Jera, Berkano, Mannaz, Othala

Season- Winter

Sense- touch

Shamanic North- Here lives the Great White Cleansing Wind.
Robes- red. The Earth, the Pipestone, the Blood of the People.
Your Relatives- the Buffalo Nation, the White Buffalo Calf Maiden, the Chanunpa.
White Geese and the daybreak star herb, 4 white horses.

Sounds- bell, gong, cymbals, drum

Spiritual Aspect- serenity, being-ness

State of Matter- solid

Stones- amazonite, emerald, granite, hematite, holy stone, jade, jasper, jet, lodestone, malachite, peridot, picture jasper, quartz, salt rock, serpentine, Tiger’s Eye, tourmaline, turquoise

Symbol of Kali- Lotus Wheel, Ring

Symbol- square

Tarot Court Cards- Pages, Princesses

Tarot Suit- pentacles

Tarot Trumps- Devil, Emperor, Empress, World

Taste- bitter

Tattwa Sanskrit Names- Prithivi

Tattwa Time- December 23- March 21

Temperaments- melancholic

Temperate Qualities- cold and dry, heavy and passive

Tetramorph/Kerub- ox, bull- Luke

Tibetan Direction- South

Tibetan Failing- pride

Tibetan Symbolic Animal- horse

Time- night, midnight

Tools- pentagram, rocks, salt, shield, drum, stones, trees, cords

Tuatha- Stone of Fal from the Otherworld
City of Danaan- Falias
Godform- Morfessa
Green- active
Black- passive
Force- Wisdom of Stone
Invocation- “Tuatha! Tuatha! Morfessa Awake!
Stone of Fal from the darkest North!
Grant Your wisdom ere I go forth!”

Vices- dullness, laziness, inconsiderate, hang-ups, stubborn, possessive, unimaginative,
stress anxiety, inability to change, greed, lazy

Virtues- centeredness, patience, truth, thorough, dependable, practicality, endurance,
perseverance, skill – ability, knowledge

Welsh Faerie- Crystal Holy Stone

Wind Spirit- Boreas, Ophion- old man

Word of Power- AGLA (ah gal lah)

Zodiac- Capricorn (beginning and structure), Taurus (saving and fixed), Virgo (changing,
Mutable and review oriented)

Friday, August 26, 2011

The Sacred Circle

Before there is anything else in Wicca, there is the circle. Wiccans cast a circle to make hallowed ground; a sacred space in between the worlds to be used for raising, amplifying and concentrating power and energy. Sacred circles are used for gathering forces together for a multitude of purposes. As the power strengthens within the circle, a Cone of Power is formed. The circle is used more to contain energy than to keep it out. Once enough energy has gathered, it is released out of the circle’s apex. Think of it as collecting smoke in a soap bubble. The smoke is churned up in the bubble until it is at its strongest. When the bubble is popped, the smoke is released into the ether to accomplish whatever goal was agreed upon.

The circle demarcates a holy place to commune with the God and Goddess. It is also used for protection. I like to cast a circle around my home to keep out all negative energy. You can do this inside, as well, but on a smaller scale. Leaving up a permanent circle around your home means your living on sacred ground. Make sure you honor that commitment. Re-casting the circle, periodically, is a must. The energy used to keep the circle up dissipates after enough time goes by so I like to re-cast on Saturday’s, the day for banishing and protection spells.

However you build the circle is really up to you. Wicca is such a beautiful way of life because, while there is a multitude of traditional ways to do things, you really can right your own book on the subject. Doing what feels true to you and building upon that is the way of Wicca. The one thing that holds true for all Pagans is the circle.

When you draw your circle, make sure you are visualizing a three dimensional object, not just a line on the ground. The circle represents many things: feminine energy, the egg, fertility, Earth Mother, a womb, an astral capsule and a meeting place. It is a boundary between the world of man and the God and Goddess.

This is a multidimensional scaled down universe that transcends time and space. When you draw it, do so with care. Remember to draw an arc around you from above and down through the ground, encapsulating yourself as you go. Visualize that arc as a flaming blue line as you create your three dimensional orb.


Once drawn, you are between the worlds. You consecrate the space, you call the quarters or Elemental Beings, you invoke God and Goddess and you raise power. After you’ve harnessed the power, you release. This is the place to become one with everything because this circle is not of this world, but of all worlds, binding us together as one for as long as we stay in the circle.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Amulets and Their Magick

Acorn: Attract the opposite sex when anointed with musk oil.

Aladdin's Lamp: Good luck, happiness. Helps wishes come true.

Alligator Teeth: Reversals, returning black to its originator.

Arrowhead: Protection, magickal warfare.

Coral: Banishing evil spirits. Protection against accidents.

Claw: Protection on a spiritual level. Invokes shamanic animal guardians against psychic attack and hexes.


Dragon: Creativity, protection and fertility.

Fairy Amulet: Connects bearer with earth and air elementals. Strengthens magickal powers.

Herbal Beads: Possesses highly concentrated energy of the plant they come from. Intensifies the plant's power. See herbs or flowers for more information.

Ivory: Bestows purity and purification to the bearer.

Pelts: Possesses the shamanic qualities of the animal they come from. Treated with reverence, they can be used to invoke guardian animal spirits. See animals for more information.

Poppet: Carried after ritual preparation to protect or provide services to the bearer.

Pouch (Medicine/Mojo Bag): Represents a womb of energy and can contain any vibration you choose to put in it even if empty. Of course you will probably want to add to its power by placing other amulets inside. Try to use natural fabrics or leather to give you pouch the greatest shamanic power.

Rabbit's Foot: Luck, fertility.

Sachet: Pillow filled with herbs, stones or other amulets, can protect during sleep and facilitate astral projection and dream magick.

Unicorn Amulet: Protection from all evil forces. Opens the third eye for magickal workings and divination.

Witch's Ladder: Used for binding other witches and sealing spells.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

CIMARUTA - The Witch's Charm

Traditional 2-sided Cimaruta This amulet is also known as the Witches’ Charm. The word cimaruta means "a sprig of rue” and in old times identified the wearer as a member of the Society of Diana, Queen of the Witches. The cimaruta bears the following symbols.

Rooster-Head - dispels the forces of darkness
Crescent Moon - occult forces
Serpent - cunning and wisdom
Key - knowledge
Vervain Blossom - protection (five pointed petals)
 
To wear this amulet is to embrace the Old Religion of Pre-Christian Europe. Through the essence of the cimaruta, you align yourself with the Witches of Old, carrying on a tradition kept for countless generations. For you wear the identical amulet design worn by the hereditary Witches of Old Italy, the sign of the Tuscan Witch.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Blessing for a Book of Shadows


Hearken to the olden days
Of the witch’s cunning ways
Read the book in light and love
In sun and moon and stars above

Oh gusts of Wind do turn these pages
Within the Fiery hearts of sages
Let the rolling Seas cleanse your soul
While the Earth grounds and molds

The Lord and Lady shall teach you all
While walking through these hallowed halls
Of years gone by and days of yore
We hearken to the witch’s lore

Fill these pages with Thy power
In this righteous, steadfast hour
With the aid of the Lord and Lady
As I will, So Mote It Be!

written by Justine Marie 2009 (C)

Monday, August 22, 2011

Magical Eating


This is just a short guide on food. I love to eat. I love food and because of that, I thought I’d share a brief list of magical foods to eat on specific days for specific purposes. You are not limited to only eating these foods on these days. This is just a short guide to eating in a magical way.

SUNDAY‘s, among other things, is a good day to recharge physically and spiritually. Healing our bodies and our spirits is a good idea after a long week of working and dealing with the stresses of the world. My greatest advice for this day is that you try to maintain a strictly vegetarian diet on this day. Try to eat healthful foods that have not been processed in any way and stay away from meat all together. I usually just eat snacky kinds of foods I on this day. Sliced cucumbers, pineapple rings, watermelon, celery and carrot sticks are all apart of my Sunday diet. As Sunday is ruled by the sun, you might also like to devour a nice round orange.

MONDAY’s are ruled by the moon and as such, are my days for the Goddess. I like to eat things I can prepare in a large pot or sauce pan, all the while imagining that I am Cerridwen preparing a magical brew in my Cauldron of Inspiration. I’ll eat soups and stews on this magical day. I like eggs for breakfast for fertility. Apple crisp, avocadoes, bananas, cherries, yogurt, grapes, raspberries and plums also make it into my Monday diet.

TUESDAY’s are ruled by Mars the God of war, so I work on courage and strength. This is my big red meat day. My day to sink my teeth into something that once lived. My day as a warrior. I like to start off with pancakes in the morning with a side of bacon or sausage. At lunch I might have a nice juicy burger and to finish off the day- steak. Bringing out the inner warrior can help you handle any situation that can arise.

WEDNESDAY’s are ruled by Mercury, the messenger god. This is the day for travel, wisdom and communication. I like to start the day with a pomegranate and for lunch I’ll have some peaches and celery sticks. A nice salmon with dill sauce finishes off the day just right.

THURSDAY’s are ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance and the Norse God, Thor. I like to eat for prosperity on this day. A warm bow, of oatmeal to start the day out right moving through lunch with a big salad and ending up at supper time with a lovely eggplant lasagna with a side of 7 grain bread and pecan pie for dessert.

FRIDAY’s are ruled by Venus and this day, above all others, is the day we do spells and rituals for love. Fruit salads of any combination of the following fruits are appropriate: cherry, apple, mango, papaya, oranges, banana, peach, pineapple, raspberry and strawberry. Cinnamon toast and a giant glass of milk for breakfast hit’s the spot. Apple pie and chocolate ice cream are also wonderful additions to your day of love.

SATURDAY’s are ruled by Saturn the God of agriculture and the harvest. This is also a fine day to work protection magic. Anything with wheat and grains or gourd food is what’s on the menu. Spaghetti and garlic bread, pretzels, rice and corn with blueberry pie for dessert is a meal to look forward to.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Planetary Correspondences


Moon- Goddess mysteries, women's health, the home, children, prophetic dreams, reincarnation, sleep, emotional healing.

Sun- God mysteries, physical health, employment, leadership, prosperity, money, the performing arts and celebrity, self confidence, and new ventures.

Mercury- The intellect, communications written or spoken, teaching and learning, travel, diplomacy, influencing others.

Venus- Inner and outer beauty, love, romance, family, the creative arts, friendship, gardening, peace, happiness, fertility and sexuality.

Mars- Passion, force, power, lust, courage, strength of will, the military, physical exertion, machinery, and competition.

Jupiter- Money, prosperity, success, legal judgments, luck, friendship, investments, social gatherings, ambition, the seeking and granting of favors.

Saturn- Land and real estate, past lives, overcoming self-sabotage, lies, and losses, learning life's lessons and protection from psychic attack.

Uranus- Unexpected changes, higher consciousness, metaphysics, new inventions, re-gathering scattered energies, clairvoyance, freedom, and independence.

Neptune- Inner vision and perception, intuition, dreams, divination, chaos, confusion and revolution.

Pluto- Death, transformations, astral travel, the otherworld, materializations, transfigurations, and metamorphosis.

Note- Now we all know by now that they took Pluto off the official list of planets, but he's here anyway.

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Astrological Candle Colors


Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) : Light Blue or Pale Yellow

Pisces (February 19 - March 20) : Aquamarine

Aries (March 21 - April 19) : Red

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) : Green

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) : Yellow or Orange

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) : White or Dark Green

Leo (July 23 - August 22) : Gold or Yellow

Virgo (August 23 - September 22) : Gray or Marbled

Libra (September 23 - October 22) : Royal Blue

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21) : Red

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) : Purple

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) : Black

Friday, August 19, 2011

Totem Animal Symbolism

Adder- Transformation, Healing, Life Energy, Rebirth, Resurrection, Initiation, Wisdom, Cunning, Reincarnation

Alligator, Crocodile- Maternal Protection, Connection to the Earth Mother, Protection from Manipulation, Understanding Deceit, Revenge Through Patience, Initiation, Understanding Weather, Access to Ancient Knowledge, Aggression, Survival, Adaptability

Ant- Patience, Stamina, Planning, Energy, Communal Living, Storing for the Future, Group Minded, Perseverance, Step by Step, Teamwork, Industriousness, Order and Discipline

Badger- Keeper of Stories, Bold Self-Expression, Aggressiveness, Single-Mindedness, Passion, Cunning, Revenge, Perseverance, Control, Antidote to Passivity or Victimization, Persistence in the Service of a Mission, Groundedness, Knowledge of the Earth, Earth Magick and Wisdom, Creative Action in a Crisis, Protection of Rights and Spiritual Ideas

Bat- Death and Rebirth, Guardian of the Night, Cleaner

Bear- Introspection, Healing, Solitude, Change, Communication with Spirit, Death and Rebirth, Transformation, Astral Travel, Creature of Dreams, Shamans and Mystics, Visionaries, Defense and Revenge, Wisdom, Thoughtfulness, Need for Retreat, Rest, Natural Strength, Primal Power, Sovereignty, Intuitions Married with Instinct, Awakening the Power of the Unconscious, Introspection, Mother, Cunning, Healer, Dreaming, Direction, Connection to Creator, Nature's Pharmacist

Beaver- Doer, Builder, Gatherer

Bee- Connection to the Goddess Diana, Understanding Female Warrior Energy, Reincarnation, Communication with the Dead, Helping Earth-Bound Spirits Move on to Their Proper Place, Concentration, Prosperity, Community, Celebration, Organization, Fertility and the Honey of Life, Sweetness of Truth

Blackbird- Enchantment, The Gateway, The Inner Call, Understanding of the Energies of Mother Nature

Boar- The Warrior Spirit, Leadership, Direction

Bobcat- Clear Vision in Dark Places, Vigilance, Suspicion, Seeking Ancient Mystical Mysteries, Ability to Live in Solitude, Ability to See Through Masks

Buffalo- Earth Creativity, Feminine Courage, Abundance, Knowledge, Generosity, Hospitality, Sharing Work, Courage, Strength, Challenge, Survival, Giving for the Greater Good, Formulating Beneficial Plans, Prayer, Sacredness, Life Builder.

Bull- Wealth, Potency, Beneficence, Fertility

Cat- Independence, Protection, Love, Allows us to Dream its Dreams, Assists in Meditation, Ability to Fight when Cornered, Mystery, Magic, Guardianship, Detachment, Sensuality, Aloofness, Balance, Wisdom, Recuperative Power, Reincarnation, Strong Protector, Self-Assured, Searching for Hidden Information, Seeing Spirits

Chameleon- Use of Color as Camouflage, Survival, Patience, Ability to Climb to Attain Ones Goals, Using the Sun as a Source of Power

Cheetah- Ability to Focus Intently on Something for a Short Period of Time, Swiftness, Self-Esteem, Accelerating Time, Keenness of Sight, Speed, Making Events Occur Quicker

Cobra- Soul Guide, Memory of the Soul World, Transmutation of the Soul, Past Life Memories, Wisdom of the Goddess, Freedom from Religious Persecution

Cougar- Using Leadership Power Wisely and Without Ego, Balancing Power, Intention, Strength, Gaining Self-Confidence, Freedom from Guilt, Cunning, Savagery, Fury, Remorseless, Hunting, Seeking of Freedom, Balancing Intention, Power, Coming into Your Own Power, Courage, Swiftness, Balance

Cow- Being Alert to Danger, Contentment, Great Mother Goddess, Love, Connection to the Grasses, Sharing through Community, Vitality, Health, Prosperity, Life of the Land, Nourishment, Motherhood

Coyote- Understanding That All Things are Sacred--Yet Nothing is Sacred, Intelligence, Ability to Laugh at One’s Own Mistakes, Shape-Shifting, Teaching Balance Between Risk and Safety, Illumination, Stealth, Clowning and Humor, Wisdom of Folly, Prankster, Insight, Playful.

Crab- Ability to Escape by Moving Sidewise, Understanding the Power of Dance, Ability to Move Through Water (Emotions), Male Aspects of Community, Protection of Home Space

Crow- Guardian of the Place Before Existence, Carrier of Souls from Darkness into Light, Working Without Fear in Darkness, Guidance While Working in Shadow, Moves Freely in the Void, Understands all Things Related to Ethics, Shapeshifter, Secret Magic of Creation, Thief, Trickery, Boldness, Skill, Cunning, Single-Mindedness, A Bringer of Knowledge, Swiftness, Eloquence

Deer, Stag- Gentleness, Healing, Connection to the Earth and the Forest, Keen Scent, Grace, Swiftness, Being Alert for Any Danger, Psychic Powers, Innocence, Love, Kindness, Sensitivity, Pride, Independence, Purification, Strength, Nobility.

Dog- Guidance, Protection, Loyalty, Faithfulness, Devotion, Trust

Dolphin- Change, Wisdom, Balance, Harmony, Communication Skills, Freedom, Trust, Water Element Magick, Life, Breath, Communion with Nature, Protection, Psychic Awareness, Eloquence, Freedom, Magick, Discovery, Truth, Kindness, Play.

Dove- Peace, Love, Spirit messenger, Feminine Energies, Maternity, Prophesy

Dragon- Ancient Powers, Intelligence, Ferocity, Elemental Magick, Extra Power, Protection, Instruction in the Spiritual

Dragonfly- Dreams, Illusions, Understanding Dreams, Truth, Power of Light (Luminescence of Colors), Flighty, Carefree.

Eagle, Golden Eagle, Sea Eagle- Swiftness, Strength, Courage, Wisdom, Keen Sight, Illumination of Spirit, Healing, Creation, Knowledge of Magick, Ability to See Hidden Spiritual Truths, Connection to Spirit Guides and Teachers, Power, Intelligence, Renewal, Clear Vision, The Solar Bird, Spiritual Power, Carries Souls Back to the Dreamtime, Soul World Memory, Retrieves Lost Soul Parts.

Elk- Strength, Agility, Freedom, Power, Nobility

Elephant- Memory, Strength, Ancient Wisdom, Power

Falcon- Soul Healing, Accompanying the Soul Back to the Soul World, Teaching Swiftness, Controlling Speed and Movement, Understanding Magick, Astral Travelling, Healing

Fox- Shape-shifting, Cleverness, Observational Skills, Cunning, Stealth, Camouflage, Feminine Courage, Invisibility, Ability to Observe Unseen, Persistence, Gentleness, Swiftness, Diplomacy, Wildness, Adaptation, Slyness, Wisdom, Protection, Provider, Intelligence.

Frogs, Toads- Sensitivity, Medicine, Hidden Beauty and Power, Cleansing, Healing Magicks, Faith, Miracles

Goat- Sure Footedness, Seeking New Heights

Goose- Vigilance, Parenthood, Productive Power, The Call of the Quest, Travels to Legendary Places, Luck, Innocence, Story Telling, Fertility, Fidelity, Symbol of 8 and Infinity

Hawk- Clear-Sightedness, Being Observant, Far-Memory, Messages from Spirit, Guardianship, Recalling Past Lives, Courage, Wisdom, Illumination, Seeing the Larger Picture, Creativity, Truth, Experience, Wise Use of Opportunities, Overcoming Problems, Nobility, Recollection, Cleansing, Visionary Power, Defense, New Life, Primal Life Force, Fulfillment, Messenger

Hornet, Wasp, Yellow jacket- Use of Female Warrior Energy, Sisterhood, Understanding Female Societies, Communal Living

Horse- The Goddess, the Land, Travel, Power, Freedom, Strength, Movement, Grace, Dignity, Stamina, Endurance, Faithfulness, Journey, Swiftness, Friends, Loyalty, Astral Traveling.

Hummingbird- Messenger, Stopper of Time.

Jaguar- Seeing the Roads Within Chaos, Understanding the Patterns of Chaos, Moving Without Fear in the otherworld realms, Facilitating Soul Work, Empowering Oneself, Moving in Unknown Places, Shape-shifter, Psychic Sight, Releasing Fear

Leopard, Snow Leopard- Sensitivity to Touch, Stalking, Approaching Someone Unseen, Movement in Shadow Worlds, Communication with Plant Kingdom, Understanding One’s Shadow Side, Trusting One’s Inner Self, Agility, Strength

Lion- Letting Go of Stress, Strong Family Ties, Strength, Courage, Energy, Ferocity, Assertion of the Feminine and the Power of the Female Sun

Lizard- Detachment from Ego, Power to Regenerate That Which is Lost, Facing Fear, Controlling Dreams, Moving in the Otherworld, Conservation, Agility.

Lynx- Keenness of Sight, Divination, Developing Psychic Senses, Keeper of all Secrets and Mysteries, Movement Through Time and Space, Secrets and Vision of the Hidden and Unseen

Moose- Headstrong, Unstoppable Longevity.

Mountain Lion- Using Leadership Power Wisely and Without Ego, Balancing Power, Intention, Strength, Gaining Self-Confidence, Freedom from Guilt, Cunning

Mouse- Shyness, Quiet, Attention to Detail, Sneakiness

Otter- Joy, Playfulness, Sharing, Feminine Power, Helpfulness, Sharing, Adventure, the Magick of Joy, Youthful Exuberance, Zeal, Laughter, Curiosity, Mischievous.

Owl- Silent and Swift Movement, Seeing Behind Masks, Keen Sight, Messenger of Secrets and Omens, Shape-Shifting, Link Between the Dark, Unseen World and the World of Light, Comfort with Shadow Self, Moon Magick, Freedom, Silent Wisdom, Nocturnal Vision, Healing Powers, Magical, Detachment, Change, the Mystery of Magic, Omens, the Arts, Watchfulness, Night Magicks, Truth, Patience.

Panther- Astral Travel, Guardian Energy, Symbol of the Feminine, Understanding of Death, Reclaiming Ones Power, Ability to Know the Dark, Death, Rebirth, Swiftness, Cunning, Strength, Perseverance, Boldness, Beauty,. Gaining Confidence

Phoenix- Overcoming Impossible Odds, Reincarnation, New Life/Cycles, Cleansing Energy of Fire, Rebirth, Renewal, Growth Spiritually, Strength, Energy

Pig, Sow- Crone Goddess, Rooting out the Truth, Deep Earth Magick, Past Life Knowledge, Intelligence, Cunning, Generosity, Nourishment, Discovery

Rabbit, Hare- Guile, Quick-Thinking, Humility, Strengthening Intuition, Releasing Fear, Overcoming the Past, Resolution to Change, Fertility, New Life, Alertness, Nurturing, Rebirth, Balance

Raccoon- Curiosity, Creativity, Dexterity, Disguise

Raven- Healing, Initiation, Protection, Magic, Shape-shifting, Creation, Help with Divination, Wisdom, Eloquence, Magick of the Crone, Trickster, Teacher, Hoarder.

Salamander- Connects Earth and Water, Connection to Soul Memories, Change, Comfort in Darkness, Ability to Cloak in the Face of Adversity

Salmon- Understanding Divination Messages, Rebirth of Spiritual Knowledge, Instinct, Persistence, Determination, Wisdom, Inspiration, Rejuvenation

Scorpion- Death, Rebirth, Transmutation, Repelling Negativity

Seal- Protection, Lucid dreaming, Creativity, Love, Longing, Dilemma, Active Imagination

Shark- Ability to Move Constantly, Remorselessness, Never Being Caught Off Guard, Ability to Defend Oneself, Hunter, Survival, Adaptability

Sheep, Ram- Confidence in Ones Abilities, Fertility, Courage, New beginnings, Abundance, Assurance in New Areas, Sacrifice, Breakthrough, Achievement

Skunk- Sensuality, Respect, Self Esteem, Shrewdness, Transformation, Life, Death, Rebirth, Rain, Fertility, Transmutation

Snake- Elusiveness, Transmutation, Exploration of the Mysteries of Life, Primitive or Elemental Energy, Protection from Religious Persecution, Goddess Energy, Psychic Energy, Creative Power, Immortality, Rebirth, Resurrection, Initiation, Wisdom, Healing, Transformation.

Sphinx- Initiation, End of a Cycle, Element Magick, Meeting the Dark Mother

Spider- Master Weaver, Weaver of the Web of Fate, Wisdom, Creativity, Divine Inspiration, Shapeshifting, Understanding the Patterns of Illusion, Female Energy for the Creative Force of Life, Creative, Connecting the Past with the Future, Creating Possibilities, Weaver of the Primordial Alphabet.

Squirrel- Conservation, Storage, Activity, Preparedness

Swan- Sensitive, Emotional, Dreamer, Mystic, Longevity, Awakening the True Beauty of the Power of the Self, Soul, Love, Beauty, Self-Transformation, Self-Images, Intuition, Empathy, Moon Magicks, Grace, Balance, Innocence

Tarantula- Ability to Shed the Outer Skin (Masks) and Transform, Creativity, Spinning a Web to Entrap Enemies, Defense of Territory, Intimidation by Size, Use of Environment to Conceal Oneself

Tasmanian Devil- Self-Defense, Protection of Territory, Ability to Use Perseverance When Necessary, Understanding of How and When to Fight

Tiger- Power, Energy, Strength and Will-Power in the Face of Adversity, Acting in a Timely Manner, Action Without Analysis, Passion, Devotion, Sensuality

Turtle- Symbol of the Earth, Connection with the Center, Navigation Skills, Patience, Self-Boundaries, Associated with the Feminine, Power to Heal Female Diseases, Respecting the Boundaries of Others, Developing New Ideas, Self-Reliance, Tenacity, Nonviolent Defense, Motherhood, Linking Heaven to Earth, Awakening to Opportunities, Creative Source, Informed Decisions, Planning, Adaptability, Slow Progress, Retreat, Grounding, Chasity, Conservation, Mother Earth, Longevity

Unicorn- Spirit of Purity, Innocence, Childhood

Whale- Record Keeper for all Eternity, All Knowledge Associated with Voice, Psychic and Telepathic Abilities, All Aspects of the Sea, Beauty of Movement, Creation, Power of Song, Awakening Inner Depths, Ancient Knowledge, Sound Awareness

Wolf- Facing the End of One's Cycle with Dignity and Courage, Death and Rebirth, Spirit Teaching, Instinct Linked with Intelligence, Social and Family Values, Outwitting Enemies, Steadfastness, Skill in Protection of Self and Family, Taking Advantage of Change, Intuition, Learning, the Shadow, Guardianship, Ritual, Loyalty, Spirit, a Pathfinder, Psychic Energy, Inner Divinity, Teaching, Careful Study, Cunning, Escaping Hunters, Ability to Pass by Dangers Invisibly, An Astral Wolf Could Lead You to a Spiritual Teacher, Strong Protection, Spiritual Guidance in Dreams and Meditations, the Teacher, Success, Perseverance, Stability, Thought

Wolverine- Revenge, Understanding Aggression, Protection Against Attackers, Multilevel Protection, Standing your Ground, Fierceness

Wyvern- Revenge, Retribution, Creating Protective Barriers of Fear as a Defense

Thursday, August 18, 2011

The Ancestor Altar

by Donata

The ancestor altar is set up to honor and remember the ancestors, not to worship them. The ancestor altar can become an all-purpose altar and be used for meditations, ceremonies, etc.

Choose the table, mantle, dresser, etc., where you will set up the altar. Pick four stones or crystals for the four corners (the corners of the world). You will need a carafe or wine decanter to hold spirit water - which is white rum and spring water that you bless. You may include family pictures, or objects that either belonged to family members, or that you decide will represent them. If you use an altar cloth, it is traditional, but not necessary, to have one that is fringed. Fringe is one way to connect your consciousness with that of the ancestor’s. Candle/s and incense are optional, but a nice addition. The ancestor altar will often have an abalone shell to represent the womb of the Earth Mother.

There are three classes of ancestors: our blood ancestors, the ancestors of our spiritual lineage, and the ancestors of the land where we live. We may choose to honor all three classes. (A coven member recently suggested that our own previous incarnations may also be our ancestors.) One way to honor the ancestors of the land is to place a pot of earth on the altar. A way to honor the spiritual ancestors is to place an object with a symbol of your spiritual path, e. g., the Awen for druids.

Dedication of the Ancestor Altar - prepare food and drink that would appeal to them in life, and offer them to the ancestors. State your intention that this is a sacred space where you will honor them. Ask them for their aid. You don’t have to include all your ancestors - it’s a good idea to state that only those ancestors who come in love and peace, and to do no harm, are welcome.

At the first feast, at the time of dedication, and for future food/drink offerings, (remember to feed the ancestors regularly with food) bless the food, and say,

“ O blood of my blood, this is your child (name yourself). I bring you (name the food/drink) for your nourishment. Know that you are loved and respected. Accept this offering for our good. Watch over your descendant: Let there be no death, let there be no illness, let there be no accident, let there be no upheaval, let there be no poverty, let there be no ill fate (name any other attributes you wish to dispel). Stand fast for me, for my good fortune, for my wealth, for my happiness, for my home, for my health, for my family (name any other attributes you wish to attract). Thank you, blood of my blood. Thank you, O mighty dead”.

Other prayers: (from Luisah Teisch)

“ O good and mighty dead, you who wish me only good, hear me; guide and guard me, and when the time comes, greet me. You are neither blind nor deaf to this life I live; you did yourself once share it. I come to you in love and trust. I seek to honor you”.

A Prayer for the Living:

“ To my kindred (name all you wish to remember)
May the blessing of the spirit be upon you. May you be your best self.
May you walk in beauty.
May your guides be with you at every crossroads,
May you be honorably greeted when you arrive”.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Herbs of the "Devil"

This is taken from: Herbal Magick: A Witch’s Guide to Herbal Folklore and Enchantments by Gerina Dunwich

As any contemporary Witch, Neo-Pagan, or educated occult
historian can tell you, worship of the Christian’s devil was
never an element of the Old Religion or the Witches’ Craft.
However, the vast majority of Christians in the Middle Ages
believed otherwise. They viewed all Witches as being in league
with the Prince of Darkness, and were convinced that it was
from him that the Witches received their evil powers. This
had a big impact in the area of herbal folklore, as many of the
plants used both magickally and medicinally by Witches became
forever linked to the devil and branded with diabolical
nicknames that reflected this.

The following is a list of plants, beginning with their common
names or botanical names (in italics) and followed by
their nicknames relating to the devil:

Alaskan ginseng: devil’s club
Alstonia scholaris: devil’s tree
Asafoetida: devil’s dung
Bachelor’s buttons: devil’s flower
Belladonna: devil’s cherries
Bindweed: devil’s guts
Cassytha spp: devil’s twine
Celandine: devil’s milk
Colicroot: devil’s-bit
Datura: devil’s apple
Dill: devil-away
Dodder: devil’s guts; devil’s hair; hellweed
Elder: devil’s eye
Elephant’s foot: devil’s grandmother
Fairywand: devil’s bit
False (or white) hellebore: devil’s bite; devil’s tobacco
Fern: devil’s bush
Field convolvulus: devil’s weed
Grapple plant: devil’s claw root
Hedge bindweed: devil’s vine
Henbane: devil’s eye
Hieracium aurantiacum: devil’s paintbrush
Indigo berry: devil’s pumpkin
Jimsonweed: devil’s-apple; devil’s trumpet
Lambertia formosa: mountain devil
Mandrake: Satan’s apple
Mayapple: devil’s-apple
Mexican poppy: devil’s fig
Mistletoe: devil’s fuge
Parsley: devil’s oatmeal
Periwinkle: devil’s eye
Pothos: devil’s ivy
Pricklypear cactus: devil’s-tongue
Puffball fungus: devil’s snuffbox
Queen Anne’s lace: devil’s plague
Viper’s bugloss: bluedevil
Wild yam: devil’s-bones
Yarrow: devil’s nettle

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Ningal and Utu

Ningal ("Great Lady") was a goddess of reeds in the Sumerian mythology, daughter of Enki and Ningikurga and the consort of the moon god Nanna by whom she bore Utu the sun god, Inanna, and in some texts, Ishkur. She is chiefly recognised at Ur, and was probably first worshipped by cow-herders in the marsh lands of southern Mesopotamia.


Utu is the god of the sun, justice, application of law, and the dispensation of the fates of the dead. He is usually depicted as wearing a horned helmet and carrying a saw-edged weapon not unlike a pruning saw. It is thought that every day, Utu emerges from a mountain in the east, symbolizing dawn, and travels either via chariot or boat across the Earth, returning to a hole in a mountain in the west, symbolizing sunset. Every night, Utu descends into the underworld to decide the fate of the dead. He is also depicted as carrying a mace, and standing with one foot on a mountain.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Hematite


Although long associated with psychic awareness, astral travel, scrying and healing, among other things, it has always been a favorite of mine when it comes to protection. Specifically, when I’m using protection magic on my home. It can be used as you would a mirror at the all the entrances of your home. Placing a hematite stone at all entrances reflect any negative energy that comes your way back out and away from you. As you place the hematite you can say the following or something like it.

Shield me now, like a mirror
Negativity come no nearer
In this hour and on this day
As I will, so mote it be.

The stones can be taken up and cleansed once a month on the Full Moon by allowing them to lay in the light of the moon for a few hours. You can also lay the stones out on the ground so that any negative energy can move out of the stone and into the earth to be transformed and neutralized.

Other info on Hematite from http://www.theseer.com/crystals4.html

Hematite condenses scattered feelings, turns fuzziness into mental clarity, enhances concentration, memory, practicality, helps those who study, do bookkeeping, detailed work and helps with sound sleep. Considered the symbol of life energy, hematite allows for more confidence, will power and boldness. A protective stone and helps bolster low self-esteem. Hematite is known to deflect negativity. It restores equilibrium, stability and is also used for astral protection. Hematite is associated with the Spleen, blood, and cleansing. The iron in this mineral has a strong effect on the blood. Used in supporting the kidney's blood-cleansing function. Recommended for those with anemia. Helps in tissue regeneration. Hematite is given to those who need to regroup after jet lag, stress, birth and anesthesia. Hematite aids absorption of iron in the small intestines and benefits all fluid functions in the body.Hematite is used to improve relationships. If you need your personal relationship to be better, carry a hematite with you always.

Sunday, August 14, 2011

The Element of Water

WATER- To Dare

Affirmation- I am creative and intuitive

Age of Man- middle age

Alchemical Element Equivalent- mercury

Alchemical Metal- silver

Angelic Elemental Ruler - Taliahad

Animals- salmon, fish, seals, sea serpent, dolphin, sea birds, all aquatic creatures, sea serpents

Animal World Totems- Water Creatures: bear, raven, elk, heron, crane, whales, dolphins, Frogs, salamanders, water bugs; water, sacred dreams, initiators

Archangel- Gabriel

Basic Nature- Flowing, Purifying, Healing, Soothing, Loving

Bija- Vam (Vaungg)

Bodily Liquids- blood

Body Organs- lungs

Buddha Mantra- Mum

Celtic Name- Iar

Chakra- behind genitals

Characteristics- clear, heavy, reflective, insulator, absorptive, non-compressible,
expandable, smooth flowing, malleable, mutable, female, receptive, mediator; carries fire, air and earth, flowing, purifying, healing, soothing, loving, emotions, dreams, compassion, love, sadness, psychism, healing, rest, cleansing, dissolution, astral travel, death/rebirth, flows, diffuses, loves, dissolves

Chemical Element- hydrogen

Colors- blue, white, silver, indigo, aqua, sea-foam green

Consciousness- wisdom

Creation Gods- Great Ocean

Creative Process- reception

Days of the Week- Monday, Friday

Death Rites- burial at sea

Demon King of the Goetia- Ariton Korson

Demon Prince- Æael (Azael)

Dialectic Process- antithesis, opposition

Dimensions- psychic

Direction of View- inward

Direction- West

Divine Names- Elohim Tzabaoth (God of hosts)

Druidic Tool- Silver Chalice

Eastern Polarity- yin

Egyptian King- Kabexnaf (a hawk)

Egyptian Son- Qebhsennuf: Horus’s hawk-headed son

Elemental Beings- undines, nymphs, mermaids and mermen who live in the sea, lakes,
streams, and springs, and fairies of the lakes, ponds and streams

Elemental King- Nichsa (Niksa)

Elemental Ruler- Tharsis

Energy Flow- front to heart with love energy

Energy Type- Receptive

Enochian Divine Name- MPHARSLGAIOL

Enochian Elemental King- THAHEBYOBIAATAN

Enochian Worlds- HCOMA

Evangelists- John

Familial Aspect- daughter

Feeling- love, tingles like spray

Gender- feminine, receptive

Goddesses- Aphrodite, Arianrhod, Branwen, Hecate, Isis, Tiamat, Mari, Selene, Yemanja. Crone.

Gods- Adwe, Bran, Dylan, Ea, Llyr, Mabon, Manannan Mac Lir, Neptune, Njord, Oceanus, Osiris, Poseidon

Hand- ring finger

Hebrew Letters- He

Hebrew Name- Maim: means water

Human Elements- emotional body

Image- waterfall, lakes, lotus, mirrors, fog, waves, rain

Incense- rose, flowery, myrrh, onycha
3 pts lavender
1 pt willow bark
1 pt catnip
¼ pt valerian

Influences- Beauty, Breaking addictions, Music, Dreams, Psychic
dreams, Earth, Friendships, House purification, Love, Marriage, Peace, Psychic awareness, Purification, Sleep, Stress, Plants, Healing, Emotions, Communion with he spiritual, Subconscious mind, Pleasure, Fertility, Happiness, Spirituality, Meditation, Psychic powers, Divination

Irish- Uisce

Judiciary Process- opinion

Jungian Functions- feeling, emotion

Kitchen- liquid used to prepare food

Levels of Understanding- inductive, psychological

Magical Action- to know

Magical Process- emotion

Metals- silver, copper, mercury

Methods- moral

Mineral World Totems- crystals of sacred journeys, stones for dreams, inner guides and
Inner knowing, highly emotional messages

Moon Phase- Full

Musical Instruments- Cymbals, Bells, All resonant metals

Mythological Beings- merfolk, sea monsters

Natural Symbols- Shells, Cup of water

Nature- oceans, river, rain

Negative Characteristics- overly sensitive or emotional, weepy, dependent, indifferent, lazy, insecure, lack of self-esteem, frigid, depression, hypersensitivity, cold, emotionless nature

Norse Dwarf- Vestri

Ogham- Aicme Muin

Oils- Birch, Camomile, Camphor, Cardamon, Geranium, Jasmine, Lemon, Myrrh, Palma Rosa, Rose, Sandalwood, Thyme, Ginger, Ylang Ylang

Part of Person- emotions, intuition

Personality Types- apathetic, cold, undemonstrative

Physical Action- making love, partying

Physical Properties- fluid, liquid

Physical State- liquid

Place on the Pentagram- upper right

Places- Lakes, Springs, Streams, Rivers, Beaches, Oceans, Wells, Swimming pools, Bathtubs, Showers, Bedrooms, Health spas, Steam rooms, Fountains

Plane- emotional

Planets- Moon, Venus, Mercury, Saturn

Plants/Herbs/Trees- alder, aloe, American elm, cat brier, cucumber, fern, hazel, iris,
lemon, lotus, melon, mesquite, moss, mother wort, night flowers, rushes, seaweed, violet, water lilies, water plants, wax myrtle, white rose, willow, yarrow- water plants and herbs

Plant World Totem- willow trees, Journey Incenses and Teas: sandalwood, lotus, thyme, mugwort, camphor, eucalyptus, vanilla, chamomile, jasmine, hibiscus, raspberry, Valerian, comfrey, catnip, cherry, strawberry, spearmint, night-blooming or sleeping plants, morning glories, mimosa, hydroponic food plants and natural Water food plants: watercress; water plants, most shrubs and herbs.

Point of Life- Maturity

Positive Characteristics- compassionate, loving, forgiving, sensitive, easygoing, modest,
Flowing, grace

Posture- arms extended palms up


Professional Status- clergy, statesman, psychologist, artist, healer

Qabalistic Action- contraction

Qabalistic Sephiroth- Hod/Splendor, Chesod/Mercy, Binah/Understanding


Qabalistic Words- Briah: World of Creation

Quality- Vision

Ritual Work- absorbing, astral travel, childbirth, clairvoyance, communion with the
spiritual, divination, dreams, emotions, Fall, fertility, friendships, happiness,
healing, love, marriage, meditation, mirror, plants, pleasure, psychic work,
purification, sleep, smell, subconscious mind, sunset, taste, Dilution, Bathing, Washing away, Placing in water, Sea, Ice, Snow, Fog, Mirror, Magnet

Rules- emotions, feelings, love, courage, daring, sorrow, the ocean, the tides, lakes, pools, streams, and rivers, springs and wells, intuition, the unconscious mind, the womb, generation, fertility

Runes Uruz, Gebo, Hagalaz, Isa, Pethro, Ehwaz, Laguz, Dagaz

Season- Autumn

Sense- taste

Shamanic West- Here lives the Thunder Beings that send the rain.
Robe- black
Your Relatives- the Thunder Beings live to send us rain.
Bow & arrows, a cup of water, 4 black horses.

Sounds- waterfall, ocean, harp

Spiritual Aspect- compassion

State of Matter- liquid

Stones- aquamarine, beryl, fluorite, geodes, lapis lazuli, limestone, moonstone, pearl, river pebbles, rose quartz, shell, sodalite, aquamarine, agate, amethyst, jade, sapphire

Symbol of Kali- cup of blood

Tarot Court Cards- Queen

Tarot Suit- cups

Tarot Trumps- Hanged Man, Moon, Death, Lovers

Taste- salty

Tattwa Sanskrit Names- Apas

Tattwa Shapes- silver crescent with horns pointing up

Tattwa Time- September 23- December 23

Temperaments- phlegmatic

Temperate Qualities- cold and moist, heavy and passive

Tetramorph/Kerub- eagle- John

Tibetan Direction- East

Tibetan Failing- hatred

Tibetan Symbolic Animal- elephant

Time- sunset, dusk

Tools- shell chalice, Cauldron of the Dagda, Cauldron of Cerridwen, cup, cauldron,
goblet, mirrors, the sea, chalice, bowl, ring

Tuatha- Cauldron of Rebirth from the Otherworld
City of Danaan- Murias
Godform- Semias
Blue- active
Silver- passive
Force- Understanding of Water
Invocation- “Tuatha! Tuatha! Semias from sleep!
Cauldron of Life from the Western deep!
Grant understanding of Moon and Sea!”

Vices- indifference, depression, moody, fantastical, no boundaries, depression, instability

Virtues- love, compassion, receptivity, flexibility, forgiveness, love, imagination,
Connectedness

Welsh Faerie- Oyster Shell

Wind Spirit- Zephyrus- middle aged man

Word of Power- AHIA (Aiy Hey Yeh)

Zodiac- Cancer (beginnings), Scorpio (fixed and intense), Pisces (transformative, mutable)

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Inanna Invocation

Queen of Sumer,
Queen Bee
Sweet-smelling,
Flowering One
Honey Nectar
Overflowing fountain
Full-blown rose
Intoxicating dancer
Whispering wind
Singer
Spell-binder
Blossom and thorn
Inanna, Ishtar, Aphrodite,
Rhiannon, Arianrhod, Cybele
Come into me
Carry me off!