Cyber Cauldron

Preface: In my years of teaching and running a group, I have always had a dissatisfaction with the popular “Book of the Law” available to most Seekers. I felt it to be too archaic in its wording and perspective — and while it was valuable in the Burning Times, it simply does not deal with the concerns and needs of “modern-day” Witches. Over the years I became familiar with several other sets of Laws. Each of these had many good points, yet they also had their disadvantages as well.

Recently, I decided to do something daring — I took the four different versions of the Laws which I had, and combined and reworked them. I deleted what was no longer pertinent or meaningful, rewording others to make them clearer and more understandable, as well as throwing in a few new ones which I felt had been lacking. I believe that what has evolved out of this work is a set of Laws which are readable, usable, and most importantly, pertinent to the needs of today’s Witches and Neo- Pagans. It is with these thoughts and hopes that I would like to share them with you. If you should find merit or worth in them, then I will feel as though I have accomplished something. The material in this booklet has not been copyrighted, so you may reproduce the Laws for students or friends, or reprint them in your publication. It is my sincere hope that the New Book of the Law will be of use to the Craft Community.

Blessed Be,
Lady Galadriel

Part One
1. The Laws were created to give our lives form and order, that all might be balanced throughout all of the planes. In truth there are two sets of laws which govern us — one sets forth the ways of the Wiccan, and the other the ways of the Universe. Both are important, both should be observed with respect and treated with honor. The Laws were shaped and molded to teach us, to advise us, and to counsel us in our time of mortal life on earth.
2. Honor the Gods, for They are the channels and the manifestation of the Source. Honor yourself, for this force also lies within you. Love the Gods as They love you, and by loving yourself and your brothers and sisters, so the Gods shall honor you. As the love and joy of a man and a woman flowers and grows when nurtured with respect, and cultivated with understanding and honor, so should you love the Gods.
3. The Goddess is the Great Mother, and the God is the Great Father, and we are Their children; and we shall worship Them, for They are the rulers of the Universe, and all that is therein. Therefore, O Children of the Gods, try Them not, nor attempt to test Them, for They shall show you that he Ways of the Craft are not to be belittled or mocked.
4. Let the Power of the Craft flow from you only in love — or not at all. For it has always been known that the energy webs which we weave and maintain shall eventually return to encircle their creator. Thus our works become either the net which intaglios and binds us, or the web of light by which we find the Gods.
5. Let the Rites of the Wicca be a way for the children of the Gods to be as One — for Power only flows when unified. Always should you revere the Earth, and heal and tend Her, for She is our life, our Mothership, on which we navigate the dark currents of space.
6. When you reap the harvests of your lands, then you shall not reap one corner of the field, nor glean the herb gardens, or the fallen fruits of the orchards. These you shall offer to the Earth Mother, in direct return, or through offerings made to your Circle, or to sustain its Priests and Priestesses.
7. Always be proud to be of the Wicca, but do not allow your pride to become vanity — for those who are conceited are a stumbling block at the door of the Temple, and they shall be cast adrift, to swim within their own vanity.
8. Observe and listen, reserving your judgment, for until all the silver is weighed, who can know the worth thereof?
9. As like breeds like, even more so does good beget love and joy. Your life will be full of love and joy if you are joyful and happy.
10. Your teachers are the servants of the Gods, and they shall plant the seeds of knowledge within the minds of their students, and they shall use their power for the good of the Wicca. Yet it is each individual’s duty to tend the seeds which are planted, and to make the final harvest. Those who misuse the power and the trust of the teacher’s position shall have to answer to the Lords of Karma, and adjust the balance accordingly.
11. The Temples of the Gods, which are Their abode on Earth, shall belong to all Their children, and each Circle shall be as a special family. Do naught against any Temple or any family of the Wicca, lest you do that thing unto the Gods, and against yourself.
12. You must not be a teller of tales amongst the children of the Goddess, and you must hold no malice or evil thoughts towards others of the Wicca.
13. You should not lie, nor give false testimony before your Elders, or those who are of the Wicca — for liars are fools, and a menace unto themselves, and to the Wicca. Be truthful in all your works and deeds, especially within the Circle, for what you say within the presence of the Gods becomes manifest.
14. You must not put stumbling blocks in the way of those who do not follow the Path of the Wicca. You must make no unrighteous judgments of their ways, and you should aid them with an attitude of love when it is asked for. Yet ever should you keep the Counsel of the Elders, and reveal naught to others of where our Circles may be, nor may you reveal our ways without the consent of the Priestess.
15. When you make a vow to the Lord or the Lady, or you swear an oath to another of the Wicca, then you must do all that has come forth from your mouth, for a covenant with the Gods, or with the Wicca, is your Honor, and woe to those who care not for the fetters they attach to their souls by not keeping their word.
16. The Great Mother and Father would not have their children suffer the indignities of oppressors for their sake, for what is within the hearts of Their children is dear and true to Them. The Ancient and Mighty Ones shall cause the balance to be made for those who desecrate the Lord and Lady, Their temples, or Their creations.
17. Never shall you use Magick, nor the Craft, to cause harm, for this is misuse of the Power, and it is not to be condoned. To cause the death of another through the Craft is to require the death of the Self in sacrifice.
18. Never betray any of the brethren, nor the lore of our people, for you are all servants of the Gods, and must live by the virtues of love, honor and wisdom. Let truth, loyalty and honor be your creed. Let them be your guides, tempered by love and wisdom.
19. The Order of the Gods shall you keep, and within Their Circles shall you walk. You should not say “I believe” when you doubt, nor claim to obey the Lord and Lady’s word when you never enter into the Temple. You must not profess with your lips that which is not in your heart.
20. Do not use the names of the Gods in negative or evil ways, for They love and cherish Their children above all others. All others They love, even those who know them not. Yet those who hate and curse in Their name shall have the Mighty Ones take the measure of their worth.
21. In any disputes between the children of the Goddess, no one may invoke any laws but those of the Craft, or any tribunal but that of Priestess, Priest, and Elders.
22. No one of the Wicca may do anything which will endanger the Craft, nor bring any of the Wicca into conflict with the Law of the Land, or with any of our persecutors.
23. Your magickal tools are channels to that which is most precious and pure within you. Do not cheapen them by haggling their price when you acquire them.
24. Never accept money for the use of the Power. It is sorcerers and charlatans who accept money for their spells and prayers. If you accept no money, you will be free from the temptation to use the Craft for evil or unworthy causes.
25. You shall never take unduly from any human, animal or elemental that which is not yours to take — for if you steal from another, in the end you will have to sacrifice something dearer to you in order to attain the balance.
26. Show honor to all people, that they may look up to you, and respect you, and their eyes shall become a mirror for your soul.
27. Those who are of the Wicca shall not own slaves, for one person may not own the spirit of another, for only the Great Mother and Father own our souls. Nor shall you take as a pledge any person’s life, for to do so is to take upon yourself both a mill and a millstone.
28. If a stranger sojourns with you, you shall do them no wrong; they shall be as one of the Circle, born amongst ye, and you shall deal with them as you would yourself.
29. Just weights and just balances shall be given by you, and just value shall you give, and thereby receive threefold.
30. Your altars shall be kept clean, pure and holy, and all that is brought into the Temple or the Circle shall be cleansed and blessed, for the joy of the Gods, and of the Wicca.
31. A clean mind should have a clean body. You should keep your body, your clothes, and your house clean, in honor of the Mother, who gives these things to you.
32. Let none die without honor, without love, without respect, unless their actions have decreed otherwise.
33. You should not couple together if it shall cause pain, jealousy or deprivation to another by doing so. Union for malice or evil reasons such as these upsets the balance, and the Lords of the Universe shall make adjustments accordingly.
34. Let those who would love, and would be as one, and bear child, be handfasted. For the sharing of love in this manner is beauteous, and love’s union in the energy of the Gods, and the heritage of the child. It is important for children to know and to identify with those who brought them here.
35. The Law of the Goddess is that none of the Wicca shall take and wed someone who they do not love, whether it is to harm another, or for some form of material gain.
36. Remember that your children are Goddess-spawned, and are free spirits. You do not own nor control them. They are your brethren, come to visit for a while, that they may share in the vision of your love and wisdom. Let each parent realize that although they may teach and guide with love, the child shall also teach the parent, and aid them in their growth and lessons.End of Part OnePart Two
37. The etheric web and energy vortexes of the earth are in constant flux and motion to adjust to the needs of the planet. The sacred trust of the Wicca is to create and to maintain centers of light and knowledge, using the magick of the divine spark within us to focus and channel the forces of the Universal fire. And these are the channels established between the worlds of the stars and the realms of the earth, bringing in and regulating the spirit flames which energize and activate all life forms. Thus we tend and guard the threads of creation, and we weave the patterns of life and manifestation in an ever-evolving tapestry.
38. Never use your heritage or position for self-glorification or gain. Respect your magick and our ways. We must always recognize that while others may look to us to lead them, they too are our guides.
39. Keep your body strong, your mind keen, and your purpose pure, for within your being you shall channel the Power, and it needs to be strong and pure. And these are the keys to the path of Oneness, and to communication with the Gods. Yet first you must learn to speak to Them in such a manner as They can comprehend you. For the children of the Wicca must aid the Gods, and work with Them, otherwise the Gods cannot aid and work with you. Ever remember that the Priest and Priestess are the living representatives of the God and Goddess Forces, and likewise that all humans carry these forces within them, though they may lie dormant and unawakened.
40. As the Great Mother and Father come unto one another and create with the pure vibration of Love-Wisdom, so should you strive to make your Temple pure in vibration, and thus a fitting place wherein you may invite the Gods. Thus, your Circle should always be duly purified and cast, and likewise, those who would use the gateways and travel the Circle between the earth and other realms should also be duly prepared and purified.
41. The Goddess hath said, “I shall not carry thee, yet neither shall I hinder thee, nor keep thee from having the same opportunities as all of my children. Thou art free, yet thou shalt not be coddled like babes in the storm. If thou hast true devotion within thee, then all obstacles may be overcome.”
42. The laggard is but half a person — and though half is better than none, the whole is twice as good as the half. Those who do not work, or who lack the will and desire to learn the ways of the Gods, unto them is said, “The Ancient and Mighty Ones shall not keep thee within their house, if ye learneth not.”
43. A sanctuary you shall make unto the Gods, that They may dwell amongst you. And you shall fashion it to the best of your ability, according to all that your Elders shall show you, and pure energy shall you place therein.
44. An altar shall you make to unto the Lady, and you shall make due reverence unto Her, for every place where She is exalted, She will come to you and bless you. And you shall fashion your altar out of wood or stone, and burn incense and candles thereon, at the proper times, in observance of her ways.
45. You should set aside at least one day during each moon unto the Goddess, and on these days you shall do Her work; and on those days She shall renew Her children and bless them.
46. Learn to build your own Temple, and to craft your own sacred Circle, and all the tools that are used therein — for to be a person of the Craft is to be a person of consequence.
47. Let each of you inscribe your own record of our ways and teachings. For the course of each Wiccan should be charted, that the patterns of their life-web may be made known and utilized. Let each Wiccan start their Book of Light with the teachings and lore of their tradition, yet let it also contain the rites and ways of each individual, which are the harvest of each child of the Wicca, to use the wisdom of their heritage as the seeds of their own wisdom. Thus shall our lore and knowledge continue to grow and unfold, like a beautiful flower.
48. It is right to study and to understand the sigils, statues and stories of the Gods, for they shall guide your thoughts to Them, and They shall hear them. Yet you must ever remember that you worship not the sign nor the statue, but the Gods which inspired them.
49. If your Circle owns any land, let all guard it, and help to keep it clean. Let all justly guard all moneys of the Circle, as well as the rights and property of all members of the Circle.
50. If any Wiccan truly labors, then it is right that they should have their just pay. This is not considered the taking of money for the Art, but good and honest work. Yet if any Wiccan works willingly for the good of the Craft, or for their brothers and sisters without pay, then it is to their greatest honor.
51. If any Wiccan should deny themselves some pleasure or material indulgence in order to do service in the Circle, this person shall be blessed and remembered. For those who give for the greater good of all shall have their spirit uplifted.
52. Know also that if you gift the Lady’s Priests and Priestesses, or Her Circles, this is an offering made unto the Mother Herself, for a true Priest or Priestess strives always to do Her work, and to be of service to Her children, so to honor and respect them is to honor and respect the Queen of All.
53. And the offerings which are considered the most pleasing to the Gods are these:the fruits of the orchards
    the scents of the trees and herbs
    the metals of the earth
    the waters of the earth
    the flowers of the meadows
    and the milk of all mothers.

    Yet offerings of labor or money are honest too, and these will also be accepted — more so if you work with love in your heart, for always there is work to be done for the Gods, and service to be given to the children of the Wicca.

54. If your offerings are made to restore the balance, it must by of a nature that it not offensive to the Gods. It must be of value, yet given with a free heart. Thus shall the harmony be restored. If your offerings are given with a heart filled with love and devotion, or are of service to the Gods, or to the Craft, then shall you receive blessings manifold.
55. And when you make an offering unto the Gods, you should offer it thru the most proper medium, at the proper times, and in such a manner as to make it acceptable. Any and all remains of the rituals shall be consumed in the fire, or buried within the Earth, as a way of returning to the Source all that we use in the observance of our ways, thus ensuring the continuity of the cycle.
56. All may use the Craft to help and aid them, or for the advantage of their Circle, or the Craft — yet only if you are sure that you harm none. Let each Wiccan and Circle always debate these matters at length. Only if all be satisfied that none be harmed in any way, may the Art then be used. If it is not possible to achieve your ends one way, then perhaps the goal may be achieved by acting in a different way, so as to harm none.
57. Throughout the world it has been many a year since Wiccans have been burned. Yet misuse of the Power might raise the persecutions once again. So never break the Laws, however much you might be tempted, and never consent to their being broken. And if you know they are being broken, then you must work strongly against it.
58. In days of old it was decided by the Mighty Ones who came before us that the Art might be used to restrain others from harming the Craft or its children, yet only after great consultation with all members of the Circle, and only then to deflect or to constrain them.
59. And such were the ways of the Lady that She brought us forth in joy, and such were the Ways of the Lord that His reign gave all life pleasure. Offer love in your worship and all shall be joyous in beauty.End of Part TwoPart Three
60. In the dimly remembered dawn of ages past, the Wicca were truly free. Then, in Atlantis came the Age of the Misuse of Power, followed by the Ages of Persecution and Suffering. Thus the people of the Wicca hid themselves and cloaked their knowledge, and wove veils of secrecy and silence. And this is how the Ways of the Wicca have been preserved through the time of darkness. Yet much of the ways of our people were lost to the ignorance of others.
61. Yet the cycle spirals ever on — and the Age of the Earth Mother once again draws nigh. We must be strong — one with our birthright, and one with our Gods, if we are to bring forth the balance. Those who would harm us, or attempt to enslave us, we must overcome — yet only through light and love, and never through violence or the evil of chaos. And through our efforts the time of our people will come into being once more. In the times which lie ahead, there lies much work to be done, so that once more the cycles of life are drawn to the path of light, and the balance achieved through the power of love.
62. In order to bring the ways of Light and Love and Life to the peoples of the Earth, our secrets are slowly becoming secrets no more, and it is good that this is so — for the age of shadow and secrecy is passing. Yet the sharing of our ways needs always to be guided by wisdom and by love. Let our rites and our mysteries be kept sacred. Let no one defile our worship or our heritage. For the defilement of our ways is an honor loss to self, and for the Craft.
63. Let each High Priestess govern her Circle with justice and Love, and with the help and advice of the Elders and the High Priest, always heeding the messages of the Gods when they come.
64. Ever remember that although the Priest is the force with which the Circle is built, the Priestess is the ruler therein — for it is through her that the Goddess created the world, and all things therein.
65. The High Priestess will heed all complaints of all Pagans and Wiccans, and strive to settle any differences between them with reason and with justice.
66. Let each Circle of Light decide how it shall be known — whether by earthly name or magickal one. For each child of the Wicca knows best the safety or dangers of their homeland.
67. Let each Circle or Temple maintain and dedicate unto the Goddess and the God all the things that are required for Their rituals, for what is blessed in the name of the Gods rightly belongs to Them, and the Priest and Priestess shall be the caretakers thereof.
68. Anyone of the circle who is of sufficient rank, and wishes to form a new Circle, shall tell the High Priestess and the Elders of their intentions. Members of the old Circle may join the new Circle when it is formed, but if they do so they must leave the other Circle, unless otherwise instructed. online pharmacy without a prescription For it is the Old Law that each Wiccan may join the Circle of their choice, yet their energy should not be divided between two or more Temples.
69. The Elders of the old and new Circles shall meet in peace and with respect, to decide the level of interaction and connection between the Circles. Yet it is known that the splitting of a Circle often means strife. So only if it is truly in a spirit of peace and harmony should the Circles meet for the celebration of the Great Festivals.
70. None shall enter the Circle that have a sickness or an ailment which may be passed on to the Lady’s other children — for to do so causes harm to yourself, as well as to the others of the Circle. Rather should the Healers go unto the sick one, that through the love of the Gods they shall be made well and whole once more.
71. It has been judged lawful that if any of the Craft need a house, or land, and none will sell, to incline someone’s mind so as to be willing to sell, providing it harms none and the full price is paid without haggling.
72. In the matter of quarrels or disputes between the members of the Circle, the High Priestess shall convene the Council, and inquire into the matter. The Council shall hear each person privately, and then both together. And they shall decide justly, not favoring one side nor the other.
73. If an agreeable resolution cannot be reached, then that Wiccan must leave the Circle, for a Circle of Light cannot be properly formed where there is disagreement and discord. And when a Circle is not properly formed, the energy within is either dissipated, or turns ugly, festering like a hidden sore. So let them leave, but only with love in their hearts and yours, for even though your paths may diverge, you are still all children of the Wicca, and there must be no violence between us. Bear no grudges, hold no thoughts of vengeance, for this will rot away the foundation of your power.
74. It has ever been recognized that there are some people who can never agree to work under any others. At the same time there are also people who cannot rule justly. To those who must ever be chief there is but one answer: “Void this Circle, and seek another one, or if ye be of sufficient rank, then form a Circle of your own.” To those who cannot rule justly, the answer shall be “Those who cannot bear your rule will leave you.” For none may come to Circle with those with whom they are at variance, for to do so angers the Gods, and hinders the Craft.
75. Those that do wrong without knowledge shall be held innocent; those that do wrong through carelessness shall be judged lacking in wisdom, and dealt with according to the nature of the transgression. Those who do wrong with deliberation and forethought shall be thrice punished, and the Lords of Karma shall lay low their pride.
76. Each person must make a balance for their words and actions, and the judgments of the Elders should incline to try to make good come from the injustice or wrong-doing. Many are the ways to restore the balance, so let the judgments of the Elders and the Priestess be in keeping with this.
77. Do not turn aside those who seek the ways of the Wicca for the want of an offering or the lack of a robe. You are the servants of the Gods, and the servants of Their people, and those that seek for the Gods you must aid in their quest.
78. Of those who would inquire as to the ways of the Goddess, or who wish to become of the Wicca, ye shall search their hearts, and even into their spirits you shall look, as you are able. For the Wicca do not look to acquire mere numbers. Let none be turned away if their hearts are true, and their desire earnest.
79. The hidden children are like the strings of a harp: each one may give a clear note, and when gathered together in sympathy and accord, they shall give rise to a beautiful symphony. Yet when struck without reason or thought, these notes may cause discord or disharmony. Therefore the Gods decree to Their Teachers and Priests that all must be taught to master their harp, and to pluck their strings with care, that they cause no discord or imbalance.
80. Choose the Priests and Teachers of the Wicca with diligence and with care. The qualities that you should search for within them are Faith, Belief, Knowledge, Ability, Patience, Leadership, Humility, and a loving nature — for they must lead and teach the children of the Goddess, and will thereby have the power to do great good, or to cause great imbalance.
81. In practice it should be that the greatest of the Priests and Priestesses should guide the rituals within each of the Temples of the Old Gods, and truly you should be content with the advice and guidance given by them. Yet ever it should be given so that it is clear and understandable, for within the Temple each of the Wicca is free, and thus they should be able to recognize and to understand our ways and their implications. And those who cannot explain the inner workings, or give just cause and reason for their decisions, may be questioned, or the wisdom of the advice weighed.
82. Let the Priestess and Priest lead as long as they are able, and their leadership be wise and strong, and to the benefit of the Wicca. Yet if their health is ill-favored, or if the next generation needs to try their hand, then let them have the vision and the wisdom to step away from their position, and pass the duties of the Circle to another. Let them not become overly attached to the office, nor too fond of the power.
83. If a Priestess or a Priest should tire of their duties and charges, then they may step down, but only after having trained and acknowledged a successor. If a Priest or Priestess deserts their Circle, then they have lost the right to ever lead again within this life, so great a trust they have broken. If they should return to the Circle within one turn of the Wheel, and are judged to have true atonement in their hearts, new insight and growth, then they may be forgiven, and allowed to return to the Circle, yet they shall worship only, and hold no office or title. Leadership is a sacred commitment and an honor, and they have shown that they cannot be trusted with such responsibility.
84. Any Priestess, Priest, or Elder who consents to a breach of the Laws regarding the use of the Craft to cause harm to others must immediately be relieved of their office, for it is the lives of the children of the Goddess which they endanger, as well as the honor of the Craft.
85. The High Priestess may take a Sabbatical from her Circle, if her personal life and duties require it, for up to a year and a day. During that time, the Maiden shall act as High Priestess. If the High Priestess does not return at the end of a year and a day, then the Initiates of the Circle shall name a new Priestess. Unless there is good reason to the contrary, the person who has done the work of the Priestess should reap the reward. If someone else is named, then the Maiden should continue in that office.
86. Each Priestess and Priest shall choose their own consorts, yet let them be wise in the learning of our people, and thus others shall abide by the wisdom of their choice. Yet if the Circle feels the decision is ill-advised, or that they cannot abide and work in honor and trust with that consort, then they may request a gathering of all concerned to meet and to talk, and to resolve the balance with love and honor. For only those who are pure and strong, keen and wise, patient and loving, can effectively and properly carry out the duties of a Keeper of the Circle.
87. Those of the Priesthood shall not neglect their mates, or their children, or their house, nor anything which is in their possession; nor shall the sick and the needy be neglected for the sake of the Circle. Therefore let them adjust the one thing against the other, that neither should suffer, and that which is given by the Gods is treated with love and respect.
88. Long ago, at the time of Creation, it was deemed that the female should hold the power of life-giving. And such was the male force drawn to the love and beauty of the Creation of life, that he surrenders unto her keeping the force of his powers in the furtherance of life. Yet the Priestess must always remember that the fuel of the flames which light the fires within her Temple comes from the Priest. Thus she must use the force wisely, and only with love, and she must honor and respect he who is the activator of the Life Force.

Here Ends the New Book of The Law.

[sources: The Book of The Law, The Old Laws for the Old Religion, The Great Book of the Law, The Dragon Law]

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Originally posted 2011-02-13 20:38:15. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Mention magic to most people and they immediately start thinking about Wicked Witches, Wizards and Sorcerers conjuring up evil sounding spells and poisons from boiling bubbling cauldrons sat on blazing smoking fires. Others imagine comedians on stage with funny pointy hats and black and white wands. Still others think of Illusionists making people disappear then re-appear from boxes and other contrived stage props.

Since time immemorial magic has been used in witchcraft, and many myths and evil associations have been attributed to its use. Here I shall concentrate on magic and how it is perceived by witches of today. Not everybody agrees and there are many theories on the subject, so this is my theory, based on my opinion and my experiences. At the end of the day you shall have to form your own.

So what is magic really? (Or “magick” as those in the craft would term it). How, what, where and when should it be used? These are the questions I aim to answer here.

First let us destroy the myths of wizards throwing around lightening bolts doing battle with evil sorcerers, and all other such nonsense’s. Magick is a force utilising power, wisdom and knowledge. It is both more and less powerful than the ignorant can suppose. Magick can only be used to change the changeable, for instance – it can be used to cure a sickness but not to replace a lost limb. Magick is not a power to be used in place of our other powers, meaning those of our physical, mental or emotional abilities. Nor is it a crutch for the weak or an ego-boost for the inadequate. Magick is an art and skill unto itself. It needs to be learned then trained to develop, and that takes time and patience.

If we believe that everything and all originate from the same source, then the ability for using magick must be retained within us all. Magick then is a forgotten art passed down through aeons of reincarnations and it resides inside us all. Therefore magick is a skill that needs to be re-learned and trained if it’s to be used well, effectively and wisely.

In modern days magick is used not only in ritual ceremonies, but also on a daily bases during spiritual communication with the Goddess and God. It is used daily for healing purposes and perhaps more frequently for personal purposes like reducing negativity, protection and improving the self. It can also be used for many other purposes as determined by the individual while bearing in mind “The three fold law”.

Power

Magick in essence is the use and control of natural energies or power to produce and effect needed change. There are three basic sources of natural energy or power used: Personal Power, Earth Power and Divine Power.

Personal Power:

Is the life force that sustains us and protects our earthly existence. It’s the power that resides within our own bodies; some may call it “willpower”. As we go about our daily business we are constantly absorbing energy, be it from the sun during the day or the moon during the night or the food and drink we consume. This energy we store and release during movement, exercise, sex, and even through our emotional states. This we all do quite naturally.

In magick we learn to harness and arouse this personal power, infuse it with a particular purpose, release it and direct it towards it’s goal.

Earth Power:

Is the power that resides within our planet and its natural products.  Such things as: Stones, Trees, Wind, Fire, Water, Crystals, Oils and Scents. All these things and more possess unique powers and give out specific energies that can be harnessed and used during ritual and magick.

Hold a stone in the palm of your hand (receptive hand), concentrate on your hand and visualise the stone. Feel it’s force tingling? A crystal can be charged and then held against the forehead to clear up migraine or headaches with it’s healing properties. Like-wise herbs and oils can be charged then rubbed onto the body to effect internal changes. These are just a few examples of earth power and it’s uses.

Divine Power:

Is spiritual power, that which is charged and channelled by the Goddess and the God. Personal power and earth power are both manifestations of divine power. Divine power is the force of life, the source of everything, the power of the universe that created existence.

To use divine power the Goddess and God need to be invoked to bless the magick being prepared, this is normally done inside a properly constructed circle. For instance during ritual, personal power may be used to effect some personal change, then directed to the deities asking for a specific need to be met.

Other Associations

Magick is not just about the use of power; one cannot just stand up, call out to the Goddess and God and demand that magick be done – “So Be It”. A lot of work is involved in preparation for the use of magick. Once a need for the use of magick has been identified, careful consideration needs to be given to other associations if a successful outcome is to be achieved. Other associations cover such things as – Time, when should the magick be performed. Tools, which tools are best employed for the task. Then we need to consider co-ordinating – Colours, Candles, and Incense. All these influences when combined together increase the power and lend added effect to the spell or rite.

Magickal Days:

When planning magical workings, consideration needs to be given as to when the work needs to be performed for best effect. We need to ascertain the best time or day for when to perform it. Days have their own magickal associations, which are similar to and connected with the other tables. Thus creating harmony during ritual and generating increased power when all are working together. Days in general are associated with and influenced by the Sun and six of the Planets.

Tools:

As with most other religions, tools are used in Wicca to aid and enhance ritual worship. Tools have no powers within themselves save for that which we pass through them, though they do have powerful symbolic significance’s, which help us to focus our will and concentration. Tools are used to invoke deities, banish negativity, and direct our energies though touch and intention. Thus we need to know and understand the properties and symbolism of our tools in order to use them properly and correctly.

Candles:

Candles have long been used in association with magick, as indeed they have been adopted and used by many other religions for spiritual communication.

Candle magick is probably the oldest and simplest form of ritual magick still performed today. Ever since fire was discovered, the naked flame has been regarded as sacred. In ancient times lighted touches were used to invoke the Goddess and Gods. Today we symbolise those acts by utilising candles. The naked flame remains the finest and easiest means of focusing in on power and energy.

The use of differently coloured candles symbolises the nature of intent and ultimately can influence the outcome of a particular spell. Coloured candles are therefore used to pinpoint our focus on a particular deity or planetary association. We need to understand the colour properties and other associations of candles to make our magick work for best effect.

Colours:

Colour plays a powerful role in ritual Witchcraft and Magick. Colours are carefully considered and assigned to all aspects of spell making, ritual magick and festivals.

Colours have symbolic associations representing occult powers, and have their own energy frequencies that emanate specific influences. Careful consideration needs to be given to colour associations when used with Candles, Clothing, Symbols, Deities influences, Planetary influences, Causes and Effects, Zodiacal influences and Magickal Days.

Incense:

Incense like candles have long had associations with magick, and like candles are used commonly by many other religions. The use of incense in witchcraft is threefold:

(1) It conditions the mind by stimulating our senses of smell.

(2) In connection with spells, it draws down the spirits through its magickal association with the elements of Air.

(3) According to ancient beliefs, when a spell is done. It raises the spell up into the ether and sends it on its way.

In magick, the type of incense used needs to correspond with the nature of the spell being worked. Most spells require incense associated with a particular planet or deity. Many types of incense are used for their purification and cleansing properties during ritual.

There are of course other associations and considerations I haven’t mentioned. These include zodiacal associations and planetary associations; even hourly associations can have an effect. But then how far would you wish to take it? Like anything else you can go overboard. Consider that by trying to include everything in your preparation, would you ever have time for the actual working? It’s often been said that the most effective magick is simple magick. Leave the complicated stuff for the adept’s or until such time as you have been trained and gained considerable experience.

Magick then is a process in which we work closely and in harmony with the divine power source. This is envisaged as the Goddess and God with whom we communicate through the use of earth power and personal power. Magick begins within us. By learning to harness and control our personal power, so then can we use magick to produce and affect needed change for others and ourselves.

The Mind

Magick begins within us, its already there, an intuitive knowledge and instinctive ability passed down to us through aeons of regenerated reincarnations, it sits there deep in the back of the mind waiting to be used. The mind needs to be trained in the techniques of meditation, visualisation, concentration and imagination if once again we desire to use these forgotten abilities.

Meditation:

Given the pace of life in society today and the stresses and worries that go with it, it’s difficult for most of us to gain relief and let go of our cares and woes. Meditation is one way to induce total relaxation and normally precedes any act of magick or ritual. Let’s face it; we cannot begin to work with magick, which requires our full concentration, if we are worried about mundane everyday things. Meditation is also the quiet time in which we release our hold on the conscious mind and confront our inner-self, or through our psychic awareness communicate with the deities.

Choose your time and place with care, ideally somewhere peaceful and quiet, and where you won’t be disturbed. Perhaps the last thing at night after all has gone to bed, or early in the morning before the household arises. Light a candle in a darkened room (White or blue symbolises spirituality and meditation, and burn appropriate incense if you wish (Lotus, Myrrh or Passionflower may help but use what feels right for you. Sit comfortably in a chair and take a moment to savour your surroundings, the lighted candle glowing softly in the darkness, the scent of the incense stimulating the senses, feel and listen to the peace and quiet.

Relax as much as you can, empty the mind and think of nothing, breathe deeply in through the nose and out through the mouth, gradually your breathing rate will slow down. For those who haven’t tried this exercise before, care needs to be taken at this stage in case you fall asleep. If you feel sleep coming on, snap out of it and start again. As your breathing rate slows down and while inhaling, use your imagination to visualise incoming peace and tranquillity, while exhaling, visualise your hate, anger, tensions and worries leaving the body and dispersing. Feel yourself relaxing more into the chair.

Now we can open up the conscious mind allowing it to become receptive and alert. Your psychic mind will also open and awareness will grow each time you practice. Call out to the Gods and talk with them, discus your troubles and ask for advice, or look into yourself and see what you can find. Once you have finished meditating, it might be a good idea to record your findings, the thoughts, images and sensations you experienced, so you can pick up on it again the next time you practice.

Visualisation:

Is probably the most important aspect of any magickal working. Its what we use to guide and direct the power and energy raised during ritual and while using magick. We all have the ability to visualise, but most people do so randomly. Perhaps when sitting in the car while stuck in a traffic jam, the mind takes flight and begins to wonder? Or when sat in a classroom during a boring lecture, we might start thinking about favourite things, seeing them in our minds eye while the teacher drones on in the background? This is random visualisation.

For use in magick we need to train and control this ability, so that we can see, hold and shape whatever it is we want to see, and then direct our powers and energies towards it. For instance I may want to protect my home from intruders. In which case I would raise personal power while holding an image of the home in my mind, then visualise an energy field encircling the house sealing the doors and windows. Outside the house I may imagine the police apprehending intruders. I then direct my raised power and energise the visualisation, thus bringing it into manifestation and leaving the protection in place to work its magick.

This then is the art of visualisation control, the ability to see in the mind what isn’t there, to hold a non-existent image or happening and shaping it into being what you want it to be. Visualisation is not “the power” or “the energy”, nor does it create it on its own, more that it directs raised power and energy to its final conclusion.

Training:

Visualisation in itself may sound easy and it is while sat in a chair in a relaxed state of mind. But visualising is only part of the process of working magick. The difficult part is to retain your visualisation with your eyes open, stood in the centre of your circle with your hands and mind occupied in manipulating your tools and other tasks. It takes a little training and practise to perfect this technique.

You could start by incorporating a few simple exercises into your daily meditation practise. While still in your relaxed state with your eyes closed, visualise a still object, something familiar to you like an apple, a toothbrush, or something equally simple. Hold the image as long as you can, allow nothing else to interfere, and then let it go. When you can hold the image without interruption for five minutes, try the same exercise but with your eyes open. This is a little harder but practise daily and it will come.

Once you’ve accomplished this, we start again. Visualise the same image, only this time play with it. Turn it around, see it grow or expand, maybe change its colours and textures, or try to see it from different angles. When you can do this, try it again but with your eyes open. As you become more proficient, you might want to incorporate it into your active life, try doing it while occupied with mundane things, like when cooking dinner or washing up afterwards. See how long you can hold the image in your mind’s eye while washing the plates and dishes.

The final exercise is to visualise a non-existent image or something you have never seen before. Use your imagination to create something, something meaningful to you perhaps. I use a silver white unicorn with wings, riding down a sunbeam into a picturesque forest glade. Whatever you use, see it as a real thing in your mind, make it so real you could almost touch and feel it. Hold the image as long as you can, then let it go.

As with the other exercises, we need to be able to see the same image with our eyes open and while occupied with other things. When you can do this, you’re well on your way to using magick.

The Self (Grounding and Centering).

Finally a note of caution to anyone new to using magick. Magick begins within the self. Its already there in the back of the mind where it’s tied up with our energy and mental facilities. When working with magick you can be working with some powerful energy and forces. Repeated or excessive use of magick without proper care and attention to the self, depletes the self’s resources and can lead to debilitating personal health difficulties, such as mental exhaustion, headaches and migraines etc.

To combat these difficulties, witches use a technique called “Grounding and Centering”. Before any ritual, magical working or divinatory activity, a witch will first ‘Ground and Center’ to booster the self’s resources by infusing ‘Personal Power’ with ‘Earth Power’ using the techniques already mentioned above. This technique can also be used to calm fear, anxiety and agitation.

To do this, plant your feet firmly on the ground (some people prefer to do this bare footed, standing on bare earth or grass, but it can also be done seated and regardless of where one is or how one is dressed). Close your eyes, blank your mind and steady yourself. Inhale a slow deep breath and release it slowly while visualizing any retained negative energy or influences flowing out of the body through your feet and dispersing harmlessly into the ground. Inhale again while visualizing positive ‘Earth’ energy being drawn up into the body through the feet. Repeat this process until you feel that all your negativity has been released and the incoming energy has touch and infused all your body’s chakra points (these are the seven zones within the body that retain energy, the subject of another lesson, but later). You should now be feeling calm and energized to commence with your magical workings.

Once the rite or working is complete, repeat this exercise to disperse any residual energy. Most witches then follow up with a ‘Cake and Ale’ ritual, food and drink to replace and replenish spent energy.

Once your work is done and all is completed, a period of self-analyses should follow. Carefully monitor the subject of your magic and record your experiences in your ‘Book of Shadows’. This will provide you valuable information for future workings.

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Written and compiled by George Knowles.

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Originally posted 2010-07-08 13:21:56. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

The love spell is a very controversial spell although the love spell has been around since the dawn of magicks. Like the binding spell the love spell is designed to compel an individual to do something that is not in the nature.

The Wiccan Rede and the three fold law forbid the use of the love spell but that being said there are still a million and one love spells available in the forms of Chants, Spell Kits, lotion and potions.

By casting a Love spell on a person you are attempting to control a person forcing them to love you. If a person does cast a love spell, on another it because they desire or they are obsessed with that person.

Love spells do not create real love they create the illusion of love so why are love spells so popular. The truth is that we all seek to be loved its a basic human desire the problem come when the love is not pure. Mixing magicks and emotional states such as love can cause so many bad effects for both the caster and the recipient.

In Buy Levitra Online Neo paganism and Wicca the Love spell has moved away from a spell to compel love rather to a spell that help the caster or recipient to become open to love and find love.

So do love spells work the answer to that is yes but not always in the way you want which is the truth as I looked back over my book of shadows I read through some of the love spells that I have collected and one that popped out was one I cast oh it must have been 10 years ago, I knew my partner the but we were just friends who ran a small pagan group and we lived very close to each other I had just split up from my ex and wanted to find a new love and move on with my life, well I moved away and started a new life in Dorset I stayed in contact with my friend through letters and call and I must say I always had a thing for him but I thought he was 100% straight so never even considered us as a couple but one day as we where chatting he flirted with me so flirted back and some how it came out he had feelings for me and vice versa and we have been together ever since everything that I asked for came true I found my soul mate.

The spell I used is a follows all you need is some red ribbon or cord and a bell I will state I can not remember where I got the words from “so I would just like to say thank you”

Prepare your working space and circle, as you would normally do.

The words

As he is wise, kind and beautiful,

Let him now hear me.

As he is both gentle and sure of his own purpose, his own direction,

As he is my true partner,

Strong to fulfil and to be fulfilled by me,

Let him hear and come,

Let him hear and respond,

Knowing who calls,

And in his presence means happiness and as I to him an cup and wine, earth and flourishing trees, fruit barring.

Ring the bell and tie cord

And say
As this knot is tied, so may the link be made.

And may the link be love

Before whipping your wands out ready to cast for love think do you need to cast for love. Are any reason that are stopping you from being open to love if there are then you should sort these out before hand. Are you looking for instant love or a date for next Saturday then love spells are not where should be looking. Love is something special and takes time to find your perfect partner, love should be given freely it cannot be contained, bottled, or held it a force that no magicks can control.

If you can’t find love then stop looking and let it find you it will when the time is right and remember that you do not need another to complete you just complement you. Learn to love yourself you can’t expect anyone to love you if you don’t love yourself.

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Originally posted 2010-07-16 11:24:23. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Wicca beginners have a long, exciting and eventful journey ahead of them, – a path brimming with greater knowledge and a new way of life. With so much ahead it is no wonder that people can find themselves a little lost and overwhelmed. If you are lucky enough to live near a group or coven that you can join and be tutored by then you will already be well on your way to your new lifestyle. However, for many Wicca beginners it is not as simple as that. Geography to loved ones’ own religious beliefs may prevent you from joining with others and openly declaring your new course.

Yet you should never feel precluded from this wonderful religion nor hindered in your ability to follow it. There is a wealth of information out there to learn from and nothing should hold you back from learning to honour and become at one with the world around you. But seeing as this is what often confuses the Wicca beginner in the first place, here are some ideas and basic explanations to get you started and whet your appetite for more!

What Does Wicca Represent?

This is very personal thing and every Wiccan will give you a different account of why they believe and what it has brought into their lives. Every Wiccan will have a love of the earth and its universal elements. Water, air, fire and earth will come to represent beauty, synergy and power to every Wicca beginner. It is about recognizing, channeling and connecting with the earth and  its rich offerings – the gifts of Mother Nature. You will move and change along with the seasons and all of the associated festivals. Above all, Wicca is about peace and joy.

Why is it a religion?

While it is not a religion in the form than many people perceive a religion should take, Wicca is a religion due to it having been derived from Paganism. It takes on similar symbolism, belief systems and of course Gods and Goddesses. It is not prescriptive like many religions are and Wicca will not tell you how to live your life but it does help you to understand the world around you and make sense of the purpose of life.

What is the difference between Wicca and witchcraft?

Occasionally you will find differing answers to this question but as a Wicca beginner, the details of this shouldn’t concern you too much. To most, Wicca is the religious part of the lifestyle and those who practice it refer to themselves as Wicca or Wiccan rather than witch. They are more likely to be part of a coven, or group, and follow more rules. However, the name Wicca was introduced to distinguish it from the stigma associated with witchcraft and many aspects of the Wiccan and witch’s lives are very similar. The terms can be interchangeable.

The Wiccan Rede  

Wicca is a peaceful and gentle way of life that encourages respect. For this reason selfish, manipulative or sinister intentions are very much frowned upon. A small minority of Wicca beginners take an interest because they seek power over others but will soon come across one of the very few rules, The Wiccan Rede  – “An it harm none, do as ye will”. This means you are largely free to practice as you please but remember to embrace the earth’s power for good rather than cause harm or hurt to others. This leads us to the 3 fold law which states that all that you do will come back to you 3 times as powerful. In other words, be careful what you wish for!

Will I need to worship any Gods or Goddesses?

No but it is quite a significant part of the ideology and history. They also need to be understood as part of the worship of male and female. Many Wiccans will dedicate themselves to a single deity as they feel a strong affinity and can identify with particular characteristics. But any of the Gods and Goddesses can be called upon to assist you in your work. As a Wicca beginner it may be useful to try including as many as possible into your rituals to see of you feel a particular partiality.

Will I have to perform spells?

No. Not all Wiccans believe in spell casting so you should not feel under pressure to do this. But if you do find that you do have an ability in this area however, you will find plenty of information on spells for Wicca beginners until you get to the stage where you are writing your own!

Is there scripture for me to abide by?

The only book that Wiccans work from is a Book of Shadows and this is generally a very personal thing. A coven may have a joint one to work from, but very commonly you will have your own. It is a place for you to write your spells, keep notes and make observations. Whether or not there has even been a ‘real’ or ancient Book of Shadows, a central text to work from, is a hotly debated topic. However, none has been proven to exist.

Whatever your reasons for being a Wicca beginner, I’m sure you will find your life as enriched and informed as any one of us who has chosen this path for any number of reasons! You will find that there are as many ways to live a Wiccan lifestyle as there are Wiccans so enjoy every day of your personal and spiritual journey.

For Wiccan supplies, witchcraft ingredients and new age gifts, please come to our online store http://www.destinycharms.co.uk. For constantly updated free spells and Wicca info, visit my blog http://frans-free-spells.blogspot.com/.
Blessings,
Francesca x

Author: Francesca Ashcroft
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Originally posted 2011-07-20 08:31:04. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

A ceremony to recognize completion of the 2nd degree course of study

The Circle is cast as usual. All are properly prepared and purified. High Priestess and High Priest perform the Ceremony in concert. The candidate is brought into the circle by a friend and circled 3 times deosil, ending north of the altar, facing the Priest, who is standing south of the altar (where else?).

PRIEST:
“This is the time of Full Moon, a time for rekindling of light. The struggle for higher light is: That we may see it, and seeing it, work and live by it. We are about to embark upon a solemn ceremony to rekindle the light of Knowledge, the light of Will, the light of Compassion, the light of Steadfastness; we will combine these lights, and rekindle the light of Dedication in our Sister (Brother) here before us.
______________, here have you been taught the ways of the Wise, that you might count yourself among those who serve the Gods, among the brothers and sisters of the Wicca, those who are called the shapers of the universe.”

PRIEST:
“I now direct your attention to the two lights upon our altar, the one representing the Sun, the God, and the High Priest; the other representing the Moon, the Goddess, and the High Priestess. The High Priest and Priestess, presiding over the coven, may be thought of as ‘One light to rule the day, one light to rule the night’. Since these lights are both beneficent, each having honor in its place, the Craft of the Wise does not set day against night, God against Goddess, Priest against Priestess. In the Craft, we do not define evil as a negative power, rather as the lack of light; where there is the light of Sun or Moon, God or Goddess, there can be no lack of light. Choose one, or both; place light within yourself, and nurture it.”
“In times past, the Circle of Initiation was called a ‘Hermetic Circle’, after Hermes, the ancient name for the planet Mercury.” In astrology, the house of the Sun is in the zodiacal sign of the lion, which is the fifth house; the house of the Moon is in Cancer, the crab, and is in the fourth house; and the day house of the planet Mercury is in the Gemini, the Twins, and is the third house. These numbers, three, four and five, were sacred to many ancient peoples, as the dimensions of the Pythagorean Triangle, in which the square of five, twenty five, is equal to the sum of the squares of four and three, or sixteen and nine. Knowledge of this triangle was essential to builders; you are also a builder-you are building your character.”

PRIESTESS:
“I now direct your attention to the several lights surrounding us, in the East, South, West, and North. Let us now examine these lights, and see what we can discern within them of human character.”
“In the building of character, the Eastern light is denoted the Lamp of Beauty, and stands for accomplishments; for learning, skill in art, poetry, in song and instrumental music, in painting and sculpture. It exemplifies the art of making one’s self attractive to those about one. It is an old saying that ‘Beauty is as Beauty does’. It causes great distress to see these noble graces of character prostituted to ignoble ends. Remember well the lesson of the Lamp of Beauty and accept the blessing of the East.”

Initiate is censed with incense from the censer which has been previously placed in the East.

PRIEST:
“The light in the South is denoted the Lamp of Life, and stands for individuality, and for energy; for fervency, for zeal and vitality. It exemplifies passions, desires and appetites. It means loves and hates, sympathies and abhorrences, and what is more than all the rest of these, it means heart and joy in the work of life. Remember well the lesson of the Lamp of Life and accept the blessing of the South.”

Initiate is circled three times with the brazier, previously placed in the South.

PRIESTESS:
“Look now to the West, and observe the Lamp of Compassion, which stands for ‘fellow-feeling’. Every work in life demands a price. Labor, tears, self-denial, self-recrimination, the very blood of life is sometimes the price of a truly great work. Look to your fellow travellers on the road; note with care what sacrifice they have made in their progress toward the truth; allow them their faults, commiserate with them in their failures and rejoice with them when they succeed. Remember well the lesson of the Lamp of Compassion and accept the blessing of the West.”

Initiate is circled three times with water and his/her hands washed in a laving bowl, previously placed in the West.

PRIEST:
“Look now to the North, and observe the lamp of obedience. The laws of the Gods are inevitable, and the more we, as children of the Gods, understand and work in accordance with them, the greater is the sum of our happiness. Obedience in character means order, the subjection to one’s principles, the fear to do wrong, and the desire to learn and do right. Many would rather give charity than do justice. They swell with emotion, weep with sentiment, howl with the mob, so long as their own particular little tyranny or injustice is not touched. The Lamp of Obedience exemplifies firm will and determination of character, in spite of difficulties, dangers and losses. So also the Lamp of Obedience stands for self-control, perseverance and prudence. In time of peace, prepare for war; when shines the sun, expect the cloud; and in darkness wait patiently for the coming light. ‘When all the sky is draped in black and beaten by tempestuous gales, and the shuddering ship seems all awreck, calmly trim once more the tattered sail, repair the broken rudder and set again for the old determined course.’ Remember well the lesson of the Lamp of Obedience and accept now the blessing of the North.”

Initiate’s hands are marked with damp earth from a bowl in the North. Initiate is then led back south of the altar.

PRIESTESS:
“Of the character thus illuminated and thus guided by the lights here on the altar, and by the Lamps of Beauty, Life, Compassion and Obedience, it may be said, ‘Though the world perish and fall away, he/she remains.”

Initiate then takes the Oath/Obligation, kneeling.

“In the names of Arianhrod and Bran; Diana and Appolyon; Heartha and Cernunnos; and by the powers of Earth, Air, Fire and Water, I, __________________, pledge to love, worship and honor the Goddess in her many aspects; and her Consort, the Horned One, Lord of Death and Ruler of Chaos; to always be true to the Art and its secrets; to never abuse the Art or my own powers; and to keep this pledge always in my heart, in my mind, in my body and in my spirit. This I pledge, by the Circle of Life, by Cerridwen’s Sacred Cauldron and by my own hopes of a future life.”

Initiate stands. High Priestess places a necklace over Initiate’s head.

PRIESTESS:
“The Circle is a place between the worlds and outside time. The Circle is also the Symbol of Life, Death and Rebirth. We wear the necklace as a token of the Sacred Circle and as a sign that we are part of all it symbolizes.”

High Priest strikes the bell three times.

PRIEST:
“Hear ye, Lady of Life and Lord of Death! Hear ye, Ancient Guardians of the Powers of Air, Fire, Water and Earth! In this place, by our hands and will, ___________________, known to us as _______________, has been duly pledged and anointed a Priest/ess of the Second Degree!”

This is a ceremony we have used a couple of times (with variations to suit the candidate) for the second degree initiation. You will note that it borrows from many sources: Masonic, Gardnerian, Celtic and Flight of Fancy. We’ve done it robed, skyclad and some interesting combinations. Seems to work OK either way. If the candidate has done the work, the initiation ceremony is more of a public “rite of passage” or recognition of that fact… the real “initiation” is between the Gods and the candidate, and therefore cannot really be “conferred”.
…Gary Dumbauld, High Priest, Hernesgaard Circle

(Various Authors),

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Originally posted 2011-04-29 09:17:05. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Before casting a circle gather all your ingredient and tools and place them in your centre, I would normally set up my altar at this time. Double check that the phone is off the hook and that you have everything that you require.

Opening or breaking a circle is a bit of a bone of contention between many Wiccan’s and some other neo pagan paths. From my own personal view no circle should be cast with knowledge that you’re going to have to leave it. But if for some reason you have to leave then a door way can be cut open and closed. I feel that for group workings that a circle should never be broken and it is you have to start again, if it keeps happening your being told that you should not being doing what your planning to do. For solitary witches and Wiccan’s and other neo pagans this is slightly different a solitary witches home will become a temple that is filled with wards and protection items and for myself a solitary witch who has a dog who loves to join in energy rising Casting a circle that remains unbroken can nigh on be an impossibility unless I lock the dog away which I will not do.

The way around having a circle broken can be solved simply the first is cast the circle so it is large enough to encompass the whole house or flat so everything is contained within including the phone the second is how you view a circle, a circle is really not a circle but a sphere the circle you cast is around the diameter of the sphere once the quarters and deities have been call the circle and the space their in encompasses two worlds it does not full exist here on the mortal plain or fully in the spirit realm so if a pet or child crosses the boundary line it cant be break because it not in this realm, no matter what your views are on breaking a circle we will continue with how to cast a circle. And this is only one way there are many different ways depending on traditions.

No matter whether your using a wand, drugstore Athame or even your finger start by standing in the centre of the circle facing North east and raise your hand (right hand if right handed left hand if left handed) and point your Wand, Athame or finger and visualise the energy leaving the tip reaching out to the edge of you circle.

Then turn slowly to the east, tracing out the edge of the circle continue turning and tracing through south and west the back to north. This should be three times each time more energy is pour in to the circle. Once the circle is formed spend a few moments with Athame, wand or finger still point north-east create another circle by rising up and over head producing an arch from north-east to south-east then continuing around until your back at north east visualising the sphere formed.

A simple incantation or complete formal calling of the quarters can be done now I find that some rituals or spells require a simple incantation such as “to this circle I invite the goddess and god to watch, guide and protect this ritual I invite the forces of dark and light to help me do what is right and the elemental forces to lend their energies to this rite”

You will need to insure that your circle is big enough to complete you working including space to dance and move. Some neo pagans get very anal over circle size but having lived in a bed-sit you learn you learn that if you have four foot of free floor space no matter how skill you are at magicks you cant create a circle that is 9foot in diameter. Basic rule of thumb for circle casting make it big enough for your need if you make it to small stand in the centre of the circle take a deep breath in and as you exhale push the edge of the circle outwards to it reaches a desired size if to big for need use the same technique but on the intake of breath pull the circle towards the centre.

When you create your first circle you will notice a few things the energy inside a circle will make you feel tingly or a little buzzed, the circle temperature will be a little warmer that ambient room temperature you might find your self removing clothing or even working Skyclad. You may even get the feeling that you being observed this is very natural many spiritual beings will be drawn to the light of your circle they will not harm you as they can not pass through the circle many will watch for a short while before passing by.

Once you have complete your spell or ritual you will need to un-cast your circle the first thing you must thank the goddess and god for their presence a simple hale and farewell will do if quarters where called these need to be dismissed.

Then face north-east point your, Wand, Athame or finger using the opposite hand you used to cast the circle and visualise the energy if the circle flowing back into Wand, Athame or finger slowly move to the counter clockwise drawing all the energy back until you have complete untraced the circle edge.

I would normal raise my arms palms facing out so I am in a cross position and would say a simple incantation such as “ this circle is now open I once thank those that attended and to those that looked on go in peace this ritual in now complete hail and farewell”

Circle casting complete.

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Originally posted 2010-07-13 11:24:26. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

As a witch / Wiccan you should have a good understanding of energies, in rituals we raise energy then release it but this is personal energy that we create throughout the ritual but there are many other types of energy.

In my early days I was introduced to Tree energies, which is a very simple way of connecting with energies. Connecting with tree energy is a very simple technique and you do not need to have special gifts to gain success and once learned can be applied to other substances such as crystals, elements, deities and people. It is about noticing the slightest differences in vibrations. Every substance has an energy included man-made substances although man-made substances have a dead feel to them.

To connect with tree energy find your self a big sturdy tree with a large trunk, approach the tree with honour take a moment to prepare yourself ask the tree to share it energy with you, you will sense if the tree is willing to share energy with you, if it is not find another tree, Once you have a tree that will share energy with you stand with your back pushed against the tree.

You will soon start to feel the tree energy, which is an energy that goes straight up through the trunk the out through leafs then back down to the ground then into the roots and back up through the truck just like the pattern a magnetic field.

As you stand against the tree your energy will become interchangeable with the tree energy you first will feel the energy in your spine and back you may also feel your charkas opening. The energy will continue to be interchanged until your energy becomes part of the trees.

Once you feel totally at one with the tree, meditate on how you feel, note the differences in your own energy. When your ready to stop openly say I thank you for your energy and move your back away from the trunk once the physical bond between you and the tree is broken turn and give the tree a hug and thank it for it energy and leave remembering to write up what and how you felt.

Since trees are very big their energy field is easier to detect small objects are difficult at first but with practice you can detect and share the energy of a grain of rice.

Once you know how a particular energy feels you can recreate that feeling in rituals and spells. Knowing as much about energies as you can and will help you in healing and with daily life but you will need to learn on how to project this energy out or direct it. One of the fun ways I like to play with energy came out of a spell for creating a circle in your hand and I call it an energy bomb. Energy bombs are great for changing the mood of a room. We have all walked into a room after an argument and the residual energy hangs in the air this is the perfect place to drop the energy bomb.

The Energy Bomb requires some visualisation start by visualising a palm sized crystal ball in your hand now you need to think of a particular energy I normally use love energy. Love energy is a light free flowing energy, which has a very happy vibration. You will need to visualize the crystal ball being filled up with the energy like your pouring a pinkish liquid in to the ball the crystal ball will take all the energy you can pour into it once the ball is filled it should start to glow with a pink light once the light begins to vibrate at the correct energy level your start to feel it pulse this should be rhythmic that will increase in speed (almost like a timer counting down) once you get the vibration pulsing so fast that it becomes uncomfortable to hold drop it or roll across the room once the ball hits something solid it will explode pushing other energies away. Energy Bombs are great when out with friends dropping a few positive energy bombs can really make a night go perfect or just for fun throw an energy bomb filled with luck at a friend playing pool and see how they get on.

The more you play with energy the more skilled you get at using and directing it. No one can tell what a particular energy should look or feel like but if you need a visual example of energy, look to science for the answers.

Once you know what an energy feels like you should be able to change the energy of one substance in to the energy of something else this is what true magick is the ability to transform the energy of one thing into another creating a reaction.

For example may people would say if someone is sending negative energy you should return it but by doing so you invoke the rule of three and negate the Wiccan rede it is much better to absorb and change the negative energies in to a positive goal.

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Originally posted 2011-06-19 11:44:46. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Skyclad is a term in Wicca and Paganism/Neo-paganism used to describe being naked during rituals and rites. Although nudity in rituals is rare it is mentioned a lot in Wicca basically due to Gerald Gardner and a passage from Aradia, “the Gospel of the Witches” by Charles Godfrey Leland’s book.

The passage states:-
“And as the sign that ye are truly free,
Ye shall be naked in your rites, both men
And women also: this shall last until

The last of your oppressors shall be dead;”

Being Skyclad is a matter of choice and can be off putting to seekers of a pagan life. Although Skyclad rituals are rare it is a big topic in the pagan community and many books on the subject will have mention of being Skyclad so what does it mean to be Skyclad? The true idea is that a person should be totally naked, although many groups that work Skyclad will often be Skyclad under robes helping to keep the purity of the idea of being naked and keeping the dignity of the person intact.

The major problems of working Skyclad are a persons own body image issues, which can causes a person not to put their full consciousness into the ritual. The other major issue is location finding a place where you will not be seen or disturbed.

Working Skyclad is a matter of choice and when looking for a coven or group you should check to see if they work Skyclad, if you do not want to work Skyclad ask the Pagan federation if they can put you in touch with a group that does not work Skyclad.

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Originally posted 2010-10-28 21:35:16. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

An often forgotten ritual but has a great importance in modern witchcraft since much of modern neopagan witchcraft has stemmed from Wicca. Many of the traditions and practices have been adapted to suit the new and emerging paths and although much emphasis still remains with the goddess that God aspect that has emerged much more than a consult.

Although Wicca considers the duality of the divine duty equal power still lies with the high priestess and often overlooked ritual is the drawing down of the sun. This is a ritual, done by the high priest, although I have heard of high priestess is performing the ritual with some fascinating results to say the least.

The drawing down the Sun ritual can be found inside the covers of the witches Bible by Janet and Stewart Farrar below is a selection of text and the ritual from this book.

Since Wicca is a goddess orientated religion, laying particular stress on the gift of the goddess (intuitive and psychic facilities) because of the nature of its work. The complimentary process of invoking the spirit of the guard into the high priest occurs less often. The high priest does invoke the God aspect on the half of the whole Coven, during the opening ritual by means of the great God Cernunnos invocation; and in the

Imbolc, spring Equinox. Midsummer, autumn Equinox, Samhain and Yule Festival rites, their high priestess invokes the spirit of the god into the high priest either specifically or by implication. But we have found that there are occasions when it is fitting that this invocation should have a weight and solemnity comparable with the drawing down of the moon. For example, there are times when the work in hand calls for an emphasis on balance of polarity between priestess and priest-on their gift of the goddess and the gift of the God in perfect harmony.

For those who have felt the need for such a rite. We offer the following-for which drawings down the sun seemed the natural title. Doreen Valiente thinks that there may once have been a ritual for this purpose in the craft, but it has been lost over the years.

Because the high priestess, representing the goddess is always in charge of the circle, we suggest that drawing down the moon should always precede drawing down the time the high priest then invokes the God aspect in the name of the goddess.

The preparation.

No particular preparation is needed for this ritual-except that the covenant possesses is a high priest crown, he should be wearing it.

The ritual

At the end of drawing down the moon after the high priestess words, “. Here, I charge you in this sign “, the high priestess and high priest change places, moving deosil , so that he stands with his back to the altar and she faces him from the centre of the circle.

The high priest picks up his Athame from the altar and holds it His right-hand over his left breast points upwards.

The high priestess gives him a five-fold kiss, as follows:

Blessed it be thy feet that have brought thee in these ways – kissing his right foot and then they’re left.

Blessed be thy knees that shall kneel at the sacred altar – kissing his right knee and then a left foot.

Blessed be thy phallus with out which we would not be – kissing him just above the pubic hair.

The high priest spread his arms to be the blessed position, still holding his Athame in his right-hand point upwards.

The high priestess continues,

blessed be thy breast, formed in strength-kissing his right breast, then the left will stop.

Blessed be thy lips that shall utter the sacred names. They embrace, length for length, and with feet touching and kiss each other on the mouth.

The high priestess steps back, a pace and kneels s. She invokes:

Deep calls on high, the goddess on the God,

On him who is the flame that quickens her;

That he and she may seize the silver reins

And ride as one the twin horse chariots.

Let the hammer strike the anvil,

Let the lightening touch earth,

Let the lance ensoul the Grail,

Let the magic come to birth,

She touches with the right forefinger is throats left in hip right breast left breast right hip, and throat again (thus forming their invoking pentagram of fire). She then spread their hands outwards, palms forward. Meanwhile, she continues to invoke;

In her name. Do I invoke thee,

Mighty father of us all-

Lugh Pan, Belin, Herne, Cernunnos-

Come in answer to my call!

Descend; I pray thee, in thy servant and priest.

The high priestess stands and takes a step backwards. The high priest makes the invoking pentagram of fire towards her with his Athame, saying. Let there be light!

Click to enlarge direction from which to draw pentagrams

Originally posted 2011-05-12 15:10:04. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

I have to preface this by stating that I was first drawn to this work by Leigh Ann Hussey, and reacted very negatively to it. This will be my second time through these Laws, with comments that are solely my own opinion. I know that Lady Galadriel put a lot of work (translate: sweat blood) into these Laws, and I am not attacking her or her work. Making my points without sounding negative would have been nice, but I have not been very successful at this; since several people have been asking me to put down why I didn’t like them, I felt that getting the project over with would be better than struggling with a novel-length exercise in not offending anyone. To Lady Galadriel: I, too, have sweat blood over a reconstruction project similar to this (and I got lots of negative feedback, too). My finished copy, which includes the old “Burning Times” laws as a historical source or what to do when things really get bad, can be had from Leigh Ann, Judy Harrow, or downloaded from WeirdBase in St. Louis as “JRFLAWS.TXT”. My heart goes out to you, but I am commenting on your Laws from my head only.

Notes:

On the Preface: The Book of the Law, or Liber Al, which Lady G. refers to as a primary source, is not the same as Craft law in most traditions as it was written by Aleister Crowley; it is, therefore, hardly a wonder why it was not found to be very pertinent by Lady G. If, indeed, Lady G.’s Book of the Law was not Liber Al, it is hard to understand where many of these Laws originated.

The Laws:

1. Form and Order? Ask a Discordian or Shamanic Craft type. The Laws were created for guidance, as the latter part of this Law attests.
2. Channels, and manifestation of the Source? This sounds more like New Age Christianity than Wicca. I should stop talking about the flowers in the language, although they are disconcerting and very distracting from the original goal of “readable, usable, and pertinent to the needs…” I suppose I can just use the term “flowers” as my way of saying that the language is unnecessarily complicated when it really bothers me – and most of these laws do fall in this category.
3. Oh, no. Not the Christian “Ye are as children” routine again. The Gods, in my training, wish us to grow, not perpetually remain children. To not test what they say is the same as channeling some unknown spirit and believing everything he/she says. We are growing, making the Gods proud, not belittling or mocking them.
4. This law is over-judgmental (something I am accused of being at times), and ignores the need for working with our shadow-side; I suppose naiveté is the worst I can say about this Law. I can easily find better in Marion Weinstein’s Positive Magic…
5. The “Mothership” routine smacks of Close Encounters, but other than the children routine and some language problems, this one isn’t too bad – but isn’t there something in an initiation ritual about us and the Gods being the same “but for a difference of power”? I would think Brothers and Sisters of the Gods would be better terminology – feminists are welcome to reverse the wording.
6. Hmmm. Sounds like tithing to me. While it is certainly a good idea, we give back to the Gods all the time – this would be making the meaningful ritual a mechanical one. Sustain its Priests and Priestesses? Paid (or fed) clergy? Shades of Paul! This part would still work in my tradition, since we are all priests and priestesses, but I know some that are different…
7. I can’t see the purpose of this Law, and know of no corresponding Law in the Laws I have come across. It sounds like the God of the Christians again, making people the way they are and then judging them for being that way.
8. A direct statement would be better. Who do you know in these times that goes around weighing silver? Is this a modern metaphor? I don’t think so.
9. Does not parse. Sounds good, though…
10. This sounds like it’s setting up the teacher as infallible – shut up and listen. Also, while I hear Karma used frequently in Craft discussions, it is because it is a useful concept for us; however, this is the first time I have seen the Lords of Karma enthroned in Craft Law.
11. I could have taken the Golden Rule in one of its permutations, but this is much more akin to the concept of “Sin” than that of Karma.
12. “You must not be a teller of tales…”? What, we are to have no Bards in the Craft? If this law means that gossiping is not a good thing, why doesn’t it say so? And “must hold no malice” indicates that we are not allowed to be human again – true, it is better for the Craft that we all be as a loving family, but there are other ways to deal with the problems caused by personality conflicts than to outlaw legitimate feelings.
13. Flowers. Old Law. (Meaning that, other than difference in wording, this is the same as the “Old Laws”, i.e., Lady Sheba and others.)
14. Oh, boy! Priestess Knows Best (and will be happy to be responsible for you). If someone asks me a question, give them the straightest answer I can, and without phoning up my Priestess for permission to do so. I am a trained, adult Witch, and am capable both of making my own decisions and taking the consequences for making a wrong decision. The “You must not put stumbling blocks…” sounds like the old parental admonishment, “Don’t put beans in your ears.” The Christians have enough stumbling blocks of their own; I don’t think ours would even be noticed, and so are unnecessary.
15. The key words are in the Preface: readable, usable, and pertinent. “Fetters” and “woe” are not very meaningful words in this half of the 20th century. Not sure about the use of “souls”, either, since that seems to be mostly a Christian concern. Remember, Lady G. said that she reworded some of these laws “to make them clearer and more understandable”. I think she missed here.
16. Sounds like “Trust in God; He will provide.” Where is the Craft basis for this Law?
17. If you kill someone magically, accidentally or otherwise, you should be sacrificed to atone for it? My Goddess demands nothing in sacrifice. It would be far better to get into therapy and see how you could forgive yourself and help others to forgive you (I’m using “forgive” as a psychological, not religious, term). No problem with the first sentence.
18. Could be said more clearly.
19. The source for this, especially the final sentence, seems to be Jesus in Revelation. “Many say, Lord, Lord, but I know them not…” etc.
20. Sounds like, “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, thy God in vain”. Either that is what this law is saying, or it needs to be clearer.
21. Old Law. I would have worded it, “In any disputes among the Wicca…”
22. Old Law.
23. To me, my magickal tools are channels between what is within me and what is outside of me (on the magickal planes, which frequently intersect with the planes of reality). Still, Do Not Haggle is Old Law.
24. Old Law, except for the semantical substitution of “Power” for “Art” and the use of the judgmental terms “evil” and “unworthy”.
25. “Thou shalt not steal”? Hinted-at consequences are unnecessary.
26. I don’t understand “Show honor” as a phrase, and the last phrase is not comprehensible to me.
27. “Those who are of the Wicca shall not own slaves,” – good idea, although I have never seen it included in Craft Law. The rest of this sentence is again unclear and/or unnecessary justification. “Nor shall you take as a pledge any person’s life,”; well, the Laws of Karma (if you accept them, which these Laws purport to) demand otherwise from time to time, and again, this has not been found necessary in any other set of Craft Laws I have seen.
28. This is the second time the Golden Rule has been quoted in a faulty permutation. “If a stranger sojourns with you…they shall be as one of the Circle…” What, we’re going to invite total strangers into our rites just because this Law says so? There are enough Laws that contradict this already. This doesn’t sound right.
29. This came straight out of Leviticus, and also exists in Baha’i law in a slightly clearer form. It’s nice that We’re getting ecumenical, but what is the need for this in Craft Law? The Threefold Law applies, and is easier to understand.
30. The Good Wiccan Housekeeping Seal is required for Circle?
31. Not a Wiccan Law. “Cleanliness is next to god/dessliness” would be a shorter way of phrasing this. Although the old customs (not laws) require bathing prior to a ritual, even that has been used to “find” Witches with in some areas (they’re clean and smell nice – they must be seducing our men for Satan!).
32. Not Law, but a start; I believe none should die without someone having cared for them; and that death with dignity is the hoped-for ideal. Many of you already know that I’m initiating action toward Pagan hospice, funeral, and cemetery care. The judgment about “their actions” is for the Dark Lord to make.
33. Threefold Law is all you need here. Anything else is moral judgment.
34. Amended version: “Let those who desire union as a couple (or other forms as might be desirable, such as a triad or a group relationship) be handfasted, sharing their love in a manner they and the Gods find pleasing.” Children are not necessary for shared love (and often separate the parents from their mutual desires), and there is no need to deny Handfasting to couples not wanting children. I also am not certain that this needs to be a Law.
35. “The Law of the Goddess is that none of the Wicca shall take and wed someone who they do not love.” Period.
36. Not Law. Also uses “brethren”, another male term. (Anyone who has read my revision of Gardnerian Craft Law should have noticed the near-total lack of gender terminology.)
37. The first sentence is incomprehensible, immaterial, or both. This law is very flowery, and I would love to know what Lady G. extracted it from.
38. Old Law: “Never boast, never threaten…” seems to be the root here – and is much clearer in that form.
39. The concept of magickal purity is one of ritual magick, not the Craft. This Law is, in letter and spirit, one of ritual magick. While some traditions of the Craft do get into ritual magick, that still does not make this “proper” as Craft Law.
40. Old Law was both clearer and less “new-agey”.
41. Where hath the Goddess said these things? Nowhere in my tradition, and they sound more like things She may have said in circle – certainly no need to canonize them.
42. Back to Leviticus. This is far too judgmental for any tradition I am familiar with. There also seems to be confusion between “work” as in make money and “work” as in learning and teaching the things of the Craft.
43. A sacred trust? This explains why Grove of the Unicorn built a sanctuary in Georgia, but I have never seen this expressed as a requirement. Most traditions are not getting over being hidden; this Law requires total openness. I think it’s dangerous to do this in most areas, and having the Goddess decree (here) that we should do something that could harm Her Witches (something She expressly forbids us to do in the Old Laws) doesn’t feel right. What is the source of this one? It appears to be the inner feelings of some Witch or Witches, which is not good enough to pass off as Craft Law.
44. While I have been taught this, it was under “What We Do” rather than “The Law”. The style of presentation sounds too much like what YHWH would have written as a law rather than the Goddess I know…
45. Am I reading this wrong, or is this saying “Honor the Sabbath and keep it holy”? We need to set aside a whole day(s)? I don’t think that’s realistic in these times, although it might have been in Paleolithic times.
46. Not necessary. Any teacher will give you this information.
47. Definitely flowers. Let each Witch keep a book (she even dropped the “in their own hand” part). What else is necessary?
48. Clumsy, with too many “they”s in spots; How about, “Study the signs of the Gods in all their forms; these shall guide your thoughts to the Gods and the Gods will take notice of you. Turn your thoughts and worship to the Gods, not the signs and statues of them.”
49. The original here says “If any in the Craft owns any land…guard all moneys of the Craft…” thus widening the circle of love beyond just the Circle you are a part of.
50. Old Law. I feel this could be done a bit more clearly.
51. Extremely Crowleyian in content, where the content can be determined. It sounds like it is favoring asceticism “for the good of the Craft…”. Unclear rules like this have led to excesses in other religions they have appeared in.
52. Not Craft Law. Paul would have loved to have this kind of law as stated by Christ, but it wasn’t true then and it isn’t true now. If we’re not supposed to take money for the art, how come we can be allowed to take gifts?????
53. Taken as an extension of #52, this law repulses me; however, having deleted #52, and deleting “offerings of…money”, it could be OK. But it is totally unnecessary unless you’re trying to set yourself up as the First Church of Wicca, N.A., complete with Christian abuses of power. In any loving circle, people will bring the incense, or the cakes and/or wine, or work together on building a new altar. This is already covered in the laws above, though.
54. Harmony will be restored by working toward harmony, not by donating to your favorite non-profit Temple. Again, the emphasis on giving makes me think of televangelists (“I need to make the payment on my Inspirational Cadillac”). I don’t know what problems Grove of the Unicorn has been having in keeping up their payments on the land or whatever, but their problems should not be used as a lever to change Craft Law (if indeed this is the object of these laws).
55. Once more, this law either comes out of ritual magic or televangelism (or both). Every Witch should know (or know how to look up) the proper times for a ritual, and should be able to offer it up themselves (“through the most proper medium” could mean “Pay the Priestess” or it could mean “use the right tools” – if it is not intended to mean the latter, then this law has no basis in the Craft).
56. Old Law, and one of the most important Craft Laws.
57. Separating this Law from the previous one causes a minor problem – it now becomes “Never break the Laws” (and there are some dillies in this set) instead of “Never break this Law”.
58. The “Mighty Ones” decided for us “in days of old” that we cannot use the Art against anyone? A shirking of responsibility is again evident. While the same precept occurs in my set of the Laws, it is obviously a decision made in the light of persecutions, not something decreed from on high.
59. Sentence fragments. (sic) This is a subject that is not in the Laws (but is in the Charge of the Goddess, without the God’s side of things).
60. Why do we need “the dimly remembered dawn of ages past” and Atlantis to make this point? This is the only version I’ve seen that goes beyond remembered history.
61. Should be combined with #60, and have more of the excessive verbiage dropped. Oh, no! Not another cry of “the evil of chaos” again! How can these people even talk to Discordians? Any set of Laws that is intended to be Craft-inclusive must not include value judgments, especially using the words “good”, “evil”, and “chaos”. This law seems to be wishing for the time when we were in power; every set of Laws I’ve seen prior to this one would settle for a time in which we are tolerated or accepted.
62. I don’t understand what this is trying to say – it seems to fluctuate between “No more secrets”, “Only a few secrets”, and “Don’t tell anybody anything”. Since all three of these have been expressed above, I’m not sure this law is needed; it hardly even adds to the confusion.
63. The change from “always heeding the Messenger” to “always heeding the messages” is a little dangerous, but otherwise, this is Old Law.
64. This law sounds pretty Gardnerian in tone, but it does not agree with Gardnerian myths – i.e., while Goddess created everything, she did not create Death itself. Life without Death offers no regeneration, as Life could not continue on its own; the God was outside of Her creation, and so He had things to teach Her about Death. (Those of you who prefer Starhawk’s version of this myth are totally ignored in this law.)
65. I thought an HPs was only concerned mainly with what happens in Her Circle – this Law seems to state that She is concerned with an unstated, but large-sounding, community. Other than that, this is Old Law.
66. I don’t think this needs to be in the Laws, but it’s a good idea for each Circle to consider.
67. This seems to be based upon the Old Laws’ “If any in the Craft has any land…”, but it does take that additional step into demi-deified clergy. I wish I knew whether Grove of the Unicorn was an authoritarian structure or not, but these Laws go a long way toward making its sound like one. (I’m not sure this group could “pass” Isaac Bonewits’ Cult Danger Evaluation Frame after having read this many of their Laws.)
68. Aha! Almost Old Law, and a “Burning Times” law! This is still a good Law, but it was formulated to keep anyone from knowing more than one group to “give away” if they cracked under pressure of Inquisition.
69. Old Law; probably should be included in #68.
70. Are we talking about pneumonia, herpes, or a cold here? You can do a lot better healing work in Circle (in my experience) than outside of it in many cases, and any Witch can decide for her/himself whether they are too sick to be in Circle and ask (or not ask) for healing. I suppose I find this law too judgmental, or too general.
71. Old Law.
72. There is no definition of Council given (the “Old Law” says “the Elders”), and the “Old Law” states that either the High Priest or the High Priestess can convene the Elders (useful if the HPs is out of town…) Otherwise, Old Law.
73. Generally, Old Law. Some of the restatements are difficult or unwieldy, but no real problems.
74. Old Law. (Actually, a bit of another Old Law is grafted in for clarification, but it doesn’t hurt anything.)
75. In conflict with English(/American) Law, “Ignorance is no excuse,” includes threefold law (which is not included in the Old Laws), and throws in the Lords of Karma again; rephrased, this could be an excellent law or rule, but I do not recognize a single source for this one. Some ritual magic, a little Hinduism, no Craft per se.
76. Nice thought; sounds like a personal addition.
77. As above, the “want of an offering” is not an issue in Old Law; the “lack of a robe” has never been discussed, since most groups I am familiar with generally work skyclad or negotiate the issue. Personal addition?
78. Nice thought; sounds like a personal addition.
79. So many flowers that (I feel) most would miss the point. I’m afraid I did, and I’m a musician.
80. Sounds like the Apostle Paul. The qualities I was taught to look for in a High Priestess were caring, leadership, patience, ability, and knowing when to ask for help. This cuts out faith (something Goddess says in Her Charge is not asked for) and belief (something she wouldn’t be in Circle without). More flames on the topic of children.
81. Source? Sounds clergy-like to me…
82. Old Law states that a requirement of being High Priestess is youth; while this is not easily practiced in all covens, going to the opposite extreme is probably not much better. My personal experiences have been in covens where everyone takes their hand at practicing HP and HPs, with the HPs acting more like organizer and running coven meetings.
83. Ouch. Based upon Old Law, this Law removes the aspect of Love as an excuse (or Glands, if you like the Wombat Wicca version) – and demands both judgment and atonement for a HPs who has left and come back – even uses the judgmental term, “deserts”, in dealing with the issue. The Old Law may have its drawbacks, but is a much better guide (I feel) than getting nasty about it. Oooh, they don’t even get to hold office again! Many things are sacred, and certainly being High Priestess is one of them, but in my teaching, Love is a higher ideal, and the Craft has always allowed for it.
84. Old Law, with flames as above. “It is the lives of all of the Craft they endanger.” Honor is still undefined in this context.
85. The use of the word, “Sabbatical” is cute in this context, but this should be a part of #83 rather than separating them out. Also, the phrase, “the Maiden should continue in that office” confuses the reader as to which office – the law has already stated that she should reap the reward; does election of another person invalidate the election? It should read, “…the Maiden shall be the Maiden for the new HPs.”
86. This is a new idea, and probably a good one: the Priestess and the Priest need not be the consort of the other, but are selected each by the coven or circle and are free to choose their own consorts. The one possible negative I can think of concerns the few times when Great Rite is held, and the feelings of their consorts on this matter. But then it lets the coven decide whether the choice was right nor not! If we’re dealing with private lives, let them remain private. Based on Old Law, except that in Old Law the Priestess is chosen and She selects the Priest. This law again contains too many value judgments – if you need a perfect person to run your circle, you will never meet.
87. Adapted from the Letters of Paul the Apostle, not the Old Laws. It is nice to state that we should be responsible for ourselves, but that is a part of being a Witch (oops, by these Laws, Witches are only children, so I suppose making “those of the Priesthood” adults is what this law is about). This also seems to state (per Christianity) that their mates, children, and house are all possessions; hardly a feminist or Craft perspective.
88. Reverse Christian. Extremely sexist, and no more or less bad than making the Man ruler of the world.

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Originally posted 2011-02-16 15:39:03. Republished by Blog Post Promoter