Beltane Ritual

A Beltane Ritual (Solitary)

By

Minister Kheti A. Sahure, DD, HP

Temple of Kemetic Wicca
Milwaukee, WI
2001 C.E. (Common Era)

In Egyptian ritual magick, the four directions of north, south, east, and west have their own correspondences just as the Craft does within space and time. These directions can be viewed as a semi-circle line formed from the rising sun (Re or Ra) in the east to the sunset of the west. Egypt’s physical geography represents the North-South axis of syncretism where the River Nile flows from south to north, rising in the Eastern Highlands of Egypt, and ending in the northern Nile Delta where it meets with the Mediterranean Sea. South is the source of the Nile’s mighty energies and mysticism. In contrast with the practice of the Craft, ritual usually begins by facing either north or east; for the Ancient Egyptians, it was south.

Kemetic Symbolism:

North – Earth
South – Fire
East – Air
West – Water

Ether or Aeythyr (Ka or Spirit): Isis, Bast, Sekhmet, Horus, Osiris, Ra, Thoth, Geb, or deity (deities) of your choice since we are melding the Craft with Kemeticism. 

Hapi: North – Lower Egypt – Papyrus plant
Qebehsenuef: East – Sunrise (rebirth)
Duamutef: South – Upper Egypt – Lotus flower or plant
Imseti: West – Sunset

Craft Symbolism:


It has been said that the Festival of Hathor & Horus was the wedding between Hathor and Horus but took place some time in mid-May not on May 1st. May 1st was the day adopted by early Cunning Folk in Britain. And in some locales (primarily, in Europe as ancient Irish Gaelic and Scottish Gaelic festivals in Ireland, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Wales, Brittany, and Cornwall), Beltane is celebrated from April 30th to May 5th. 

PREPARATION:

 

1. Dress in a kaftan (caftan) or ritual garb of your choice.

2. Prepare your temple, altar, or sacred space for ritual and/or ceremony by purifying or cleansing your temple, altar, or sacred space by any method of your choice.

3. Gather your offerings and place them on your altar.


4. You will need a sistrum, two candles (representing Hathor and Horus), incense, Egyptian artifacts, and your usual ritual tools. For those of you who can perform this outdoors, then rally and dance around your maypole and bonfire in glee and merriment. 


5. Optional – Facing south, cast your circle.

6. Prepare or get cakes, fruits, foods, and libations for your post-ritual celebration.

7. Feel free to vary this ritual to your own practice.

TIME OF DAY:

In Ancient Egypt, sunrise or dawn was considered the most important time of day to perform spiritual rituals and ceremonies.

Sunrise or Dawn is dedicated to Horus.

Midday or Noon is dedicated to Ra.

Sunset or Dusk is dedicated to Hathor.

Midnight is dedicated to Nut. 

The Ritual


Priest or Priestess:

Call upon the presence of Hathor and Horus (both as the spirit entity), Duamutef (south), Hapi (north), Qebehsenuef (east), Imseti (west) by reciting:

“I conjure thee Hathor and Horus, Duamutef of southern watchtower, Hapi of the northern watchtower, Qebehsenuef of the eastern watchtower, Imseti of the western watchtower.”
[Visualize and meditate as you’re doing this in order to connect with these deities]

[Shake sistrum]
[Light the two candles]

Priest or Priestess recites:

“Hail to all for your presence and your blessings of goodwill throughout this ceremony, for this is the height of Spring and the flowering of life, O Beltane!”

[Light the incense]

“I am purified with natron; thus I am pure, and pure are the words which come forth from my mouth—ii-wy em hotep!”

“Goddess Hathor, the gentler sister of Sekhmet, I welcome the love and light you bring and allow it to shed away all pain, sorrow, and regrets for what has not been fulfilled—bring joy in what has been done. Lord Horus, hawk of dawn, may your shining eye bring rays of light, health, hope, and good fortune as the day is renewed.”

[Shake sistrum]

Priest or Priestess recites:

“O Beltane, O Beltane,
I dance with delight in the twilight o’ the Beltane night.
Hathor of the west and Horus of the east,
May I awake renewed in peace.”

[Shake sistrum]

Priest or Priestess:

[At this point, prance or walk Deosil around the circle three times, spiraling inward and toward the center]

[If you created a fire in your cauldron upon your altar, then extinguish it at this time]

[Shake sistrum]

Priest or Priestess recites in closing:

“In praise of thee shining Eye of Horus and of thee Great Lady Hathor and their eternal union, Blesséd Be.”

[Shake sistrum]

[Thank the deities for their attendance and assistance during this rite; bid them farewell, then banish the circle, hexagram, pyramid, etc. if you did cast one]

~ Go celebrate in the Light of the Ancient Egyptian Pantheon,

the Lady & Lord ~

Copyright © 2001-2005-2011 Temple of Kemetic Wicca

"GOTHIC MIST"

GOTHIC MIST

harlequin without his diamond pattern
stars in the eyes of cold columbine
pierrot and pierette waltzing together
they have their love now, but you aren't mine

even pooh has a teddy to sleep with
but it has gone from full to darkened moon,
and i will disappear into the background
if you don't come and love me soon

i hold velvet to my body, cry salt oceans
send shadows and fog to creep and mist,
sing chanting spells to call you to me...
i'd sell my blood to feel your kiss


© Copyright 1/10/08
Beth Clare Johnson
(Mystic Raven)

The Witches’ Rede

(Original Version)

Bide the witches rede ye must,

In perfect love and perfect trust.


Live and let live,

Fairly take and fairly give.


Form the circle thrice about,

To keep all ye evil sprits out.


To bind the spell well every time,

Let the spell be spoken in rhyme.


Soft of eye, and light of touch,

Speak ye little, and listen ye much.


Deosil go by the waxing moon,

Singing out the witch's rune.


Widdershins go by the waning moon,

Chanting out the baneful tune.


When the Lady's moon is new,

Kiss your hand to her times two.


When the moon is at her peak,

Then thy hearts desire seek.


Heed the North wind's mighty gale,

Lock the doors and trim the sail.


When the winds come from the South,

Love will kiss thee on the mouth.


When the moor winds are from the West,

Departed spirits have no rest.


When the winds are from the East,

Expect the new and trim the feast.


Nine woods in the cauldron go,

Burn them quick and burn them slow.


Elder be the Lady's tree,

Burn it not or cursed ye'll be.


When the wheel begins to turn,

let the Beltane fires burn.


When the wheel turns to Yule,

Light the log for the Horned One Rules.


Heed the flower, bush and tree,

By the Lady, Blessed Be!


When the rippling waters flow,

Cast a stone and truth you'll know.


When ye have and hold a need,

Harken not to others greed.


With a fool no seasons spend,

Nor be counted as his friend.


Merry meet and merry part,

Bright the cheeks and warm the heart.


Mind the threefold law ye should,

Three time bad and three times good.


When misfortune is anow,

Wear the blue star upon thy brow.


True in love must ye ever be,

Least thy love be false to thee.


In these eight words the witches rede fulfill:

An it harm none, do what ye will.

History of Wicca in England

HISTORY OF WICCA IN ENGLAND: 1939 - present day

This talk was given by Julia Phillips at the Wiccan Conference
in Canberra, 1991. It is mainly about the early days of the
Wicca in England; specifically what we now call Gardnerian and
Alexandrian traditions. The text remains "as given", so please remember
when you read it that it was never intended to be "read", but "heard"
and debated.

Text begins:

There are three main strands I intend to examine: one,
Gardner's claim of traditional initiation, and its subsequent
development; two, magical traditions to which Gardner would
have had access; and three, literary sources.

As we look at these three main threads, it is important to
bear in mind that Gardner was 55 years old at the time of his
claimed initiation; that he had spent many years in Malaya,
and had an enormous interest in magic, Folklore and Mythology.
By the time he published High Magic's Aid, he was 65, and 75
when "The Meaning of Witchcraft" appeared. He died in 1964, at
the age of 80.

Gardner was born in 1884, and spent most of his working adult
life in Malaya. He retired, and returned to the UK in 1936. He
joined the Folklore Society, and in June 1938, also joined the
newly opened Rosicrucian Theatre at Christchurch where it is
said he met Old Dorothy Clutterbuck.

I chose 1939 as my arbitrary starting point as that was the
year that Gerald Gardner claims he was initiated by Old
Dorothy into a practising coven of the Old Religion, that met
in the New Forest area of Britain. In his own words,

"I realised that I had stumbled upon something interesting;
but I was half-initiated before the word, "Wica" which they
used hit me like a thunderbolt, and I knew where I was, and
that the Old Religion still existed. And so I found myself in
the Circle, and there took the usual oath of secrecy, which
bound me not to reveal certain things." This quote is taken
from The Meaning of Witchcraft, which was published in 1959.

It is interesting that in this quote, Gardner spells Wicca
with only one "c"; in the earlier "Witchcraft Today" (1954)
and "High Magic's Aid" (1949), the word Wicca is not even
used. His own derivation for the word, given in "The Meaning
of Witchcraft", is as follows:

"As they (the Dane and Saxon invaders of England) had no
witches of their own they had no special name for them;
however, they made one up from "wig" an idol, and "laer",
learning, "wiglaer" which they shortened into "Wicca".

"It is a curious fact that when the witches became English-
speaking they adopted their Saxon name, "Wica"."

Source & Full Text: http://www.sacred-texts.com/pag/wiccahst.txt

My Sol Day Holy Water, Revisited...

A Holy Water Ritual (Part I)
By Dr. Kheti A. Sahure

I. Ingredients Needed:
1-1/2 cups of spring, well, river, creek, tap or distilled (both as a last resort) water

1 sterilized glass measuring cup (for dispensing the completed Holy Water later)

1 or more small sterilized glass storage bottles

3 tbsp. Kosher rock salt or sea salt

1 sterilized earthenware vessel (bowl)

1 sterilized earthenware pot

1 sterilized tablespoon

1 sterilized teaspoon

2 tsp. of Rose Water

1 small moon mirror (for reflecting the moonlight upon the water if the Full Moon is not in an optimal position especially if working indoors or for scrying)

Note A:
Holy Water can be prepared by anyone but it does need to be blessed. Traditionally in many religions and spiritual practices, Holy Water has been and can be blessed by a Witch, Clergy, Priest, Priestess, Shaman, or someone with spiritual wherewithal and then energized by the light of the Full Moon and the Moon Goddess. The ritual part of this endeavor varies. Making Rose Water can be a bit tedious as well as time consuming; so it is suggested or optional that you obtain some from someone you know, temple or church, or purchase some from a metaphysical shoppe that actually makes its own Rose Water from natural, organic ingredients starting with white roses.

For the best results, it is preferable to get spring water from a "clean" moving body of water such as a river, stream, ocean, or creek; lake or natural well water will do just fine also. Since many natural bodies of water are so polluted, it is suggested that the water is boiled at first.

Note B:
The storage bottle or bottles you use should be dark in color--blue, brown, green, purple, or clear (as a last resort) to maintain the Holy Water's magical properties. The bottled Holy Water can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated for later use.

Note C:
If you are unable to perform the consecration of the water outdoors, then improvise and perform this indoors at your altar or someplace you deem sacred; place the vessel of or decanted bottled water in a window where the midnight moonlight will shine upon and energize it.

II. Time & Place of Day:
Preferably, outdoors at Midnight during a Full Moon or indoors at your altar if you are unable to be out of doors.

III. Preparation:
1. Cleanse and sterilize the vessel, glass measuring cup, and storage bottles with boiling water or in a dishwasher.
2. Add 3 tbsp. sea salt or Kosher rock salt to the pot of 1-1/2 cups of spring water; bring to a boil while stirring the salt until it dissolves in the water.
3. ALLOW THE LIQUID TO COOL DOWN TO ROOM TEMPERATURE then add 2 tsp. of Rose Water, stirring it into the salted water.
4. Decant the Holy Water into the vessel then perform your ritual.

About the Author:
Dr. Sahure is a practicing Alternative Spiritualist, ordained Kemetic Wiccan minister and Spiritual Counselor, traditional herbalist, senior researcher with the Antiquus Research Group and the author of many noteworthy essays and articles about a variety of topics and subjects, including herbalism, ancient history and mythology, ancient Egyptian religion (Kemeticism), metaphysical sciences, ancient religions and theology, astrology, tarot, and other divination systems. Dr. Sahure holds doctorate degrees in Metaphysical Science (Msc.D., D.Met.), Theology (Th.D.), and Divinity (D.D.). Visit his Applied Occult Metaphysics eGroup at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Applied_Occult_Metaphysics and his online Mystic Owl Curio shoppe at http://www.mysticowlcurio.com


Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Kheti_A._Sahure

http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Holy-Water-Ritual-(Part-I)&id=3723739 

Sahure, K. A. (2010, February 8). A Holy Water Ritual (Part I). Retrieved December 12, 2010, from http://ezinearticles.com/?A-­Holy-­Water-­Ritual-­(Part-­I)&id=3723739

Post Scriptum:
Part II (The Ritual) is available upon request...and as a warning, not for the squeamish or faint of heart! ~ Dok Kheti

Paganism: Suggested Reading

A Short List of Wicca - Witchcraft Suggested Reading: 1. Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner by Scott Cunningham (November 1990) 2. Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft by Raymond Buckland (December 1986) 3. The Book of Spells II: Over 40 Charms and Magic Spells to Increase You Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Well-Being by Marian Green (September 2001) 4. Wicca: The Old Religion in the New Millennium by Vivianne Crowley (January 1996) 5. Solitary Witch: The Ultimate Book of Shadows for the New Generation by Silver Ravenwolf (February 2003).

A Brief List of Authors: Aleister Crowley, Alfred Métraux, Amber K, Anna Riva, Chief FAMA, DJ Conway, Doktor Snake, Doreen Valiente, Gavin and Yvonne Frost, Gerald Gardner, Heike Owusu, Irete Lazo, Isaac Bonewits, Israel Regardie, Janet and Stewart Farrar, Jeanine De Oya, K.A. Sahure, Laënnec Hurbon, Margaret Murray, Marie Laveau, Margot Adler, Migene Gonzalez Wippler, Milo Riguard, Moustafa Gadalla, Muata Ashby, Ra Un Nefer Amen, Raven Grimassi, Robert Tallant, Scott Cunningham, Silver Ravenwolf, Starhawk, Sybil Leek, and Vivianne Crowley. There are many writers and contributors to all aspects of African Traditional Religions, Wicca, Witchcraft, Paganism, Pagan Theology, and Ancient Egyptian Religion (Kemeticism).

The literary works of these authors can be found at Barnes and Noble.

Terminology: Wicca, Wiccan

For many practitioners within the Craft, Paganism, Alternative Religions, and Alternative Spiritual Paths residing in the United States--the terms "Wicca, Wiccan" are only used due to the fact that Wicca is a legally recognized religion in theUnited States which "permits" us to practice the rites, rituals, and spells of Witchcraft in connection with the physical laws of Nature and the metaphysical laws of our Universe (or Cosmos). The Legal Basis For Wicca "Dettmer vs. Landon -This is the court case that made Wicca a legally recognized religion in the United States."The case was Dettmer v. Landon. A 29 year old inmate incarcerated at the Powhatan Correctional Center in State Farm, Virginia claimed that his First Amendment right to the free exercise of his religion, the Church of Wicca, was violated by prison officials who refused to give him any access to his religion's worship materials. Prison officials said that the worship materials that Dettmer seeked--candles; a statue; a white robe; incens[e]; and either sulfur, seasalt, or uniodized salt--would be hazardous to prison security. The prison officials also claimed that the Church of Wicca is not areligion entitled to First Amendment protection..." Full Article: Alternative Religions Educational Network (AREN) www.aren.org/documents/purplebook.pdf

Neo-Pagan Sacred Art and Altars

Neo-Pagan Sacred Art and Altars: Making Things Whole

"Fire-cat masks, earth mother icons, henna tattoos, ankhs, and water altars—these objects may sound like the inventory in an ancient druid's sanctuary. But they are part of the sacred reliquary created by contemporary artists and practitioners of Neo-Pagan ritual.

Calling themselves 'witches' and 'pagans' and drawing inspiration from pre-Christian polytheistic worship, the practitioners of Neo-Paganism have often been misunderstood by outsiders. In the uninitiated, their art and iconography have inspired fear.


In featuring the works of ten artists, Sabina Magliocco's Neo-Pagan Sacred Art and Altars unlocks the meanings of this religion's creativity and symbolism and makes its sacred nature understandable to non-specialists.


A stunning array of color plates and halftones will touch the imagination of insiders and outsiders alike, revealing the imaginative skills of some of the movement's most celebrated artists, as well as amateurs working at home with family and friends.


These masks and altars, earrings and necklaces create one of the Neo-Pagan movement's most striking features—its ritual art. Yet this is one of the first books to focus on these spiritual objects rather than on the sociology and psychology of the followers. The odd array of costumes and jewelry, as well as the juxtaposition of neo-primitive and medieval-looking styles, troubles outsiders and contributes to the movement's undeserved reputation for attracting eccentrics. Yet its sacred art is part of one of the most flourishing contemporary traditions in the United States."

Beltane (Beltaine, Lá Bealtaine, et cetera)

Merry Beltane!

Beltane: Its History and Modern Celebration in Wicca in America
by Rowan Moonstone

"The celebration of May 1st, or Beltane as it is known in Wicca Circles, is one of the most important festivals of our religious year. I will attempt here to answer some of the most often asked questions about this holiday. An extensive bibliography follows the article so that the interested reader can do further research..."

Full Essay:
http://www.sacred-texts.com/bos/bos032.htm

*****

Post Scriptum:
Some Celtic / Pagan / Neo-Pagan / Wiccan / Witchcraft / Druid / Alternative Spiritualist circles celebrate Beltane between (and as early as April 30th) May 1st and (or through) May 4th in the Northern Hemisphere, keeping in mind that Beltane is an important Cross-Quarter Sabbat.

Additional Information:
The Witches' Voice (Witchvox)
"Beltane -- Holiday Details and History"http://www.witchvox.com/va/dt_va.html?a=usma&c=holidays&id=2765

Em Hetep,
Blessed Be!

Temple of Kemetic Wicca
Priestesses & Priests of Ma'at (MMVII)

Consecration of Magickal Tools

Consecration of Chalice, Athame or Other Tool

Before these assembled spirits I bring (name type of tool) to be dedicated to the service of the Lady and Lord.

(Pass tool three times through smoke of the incense.)

By the power of air, be thou purified. Be thou dedicated to purity of thought and to harmlessness that all intentions for which thou art used may harm none and be for the good of all.

(Pass tool three times through or over the flame of the fire candle.)

By the power of fire, be thou purified. Be thou dedicated to purity of desire and to harmlessness that all goals which thou doest help achieve may harm none and be for the good of all.

(Take a few drops of water and sprinkle or dab on instrument.)

By the power of water, be thou purified. Be thou dedicated to purity of emotion and to harmlessness that all that thou shalt be used in a spirit of harmony, harming none and for the good of all.

(Touch instrument to the stone or salt in north quarter)

By the power of earth, be thou purified. Be thou dedicated to steadfastness and purity of purpose, that my will be achieved without wavering, with harm to none and for the good of all.

(If this is a chalice, present it first to the Lady, then to the Lord, if athame, reverse order. All other instruments use personal preference, but it is courtesy to present them to Her first.)

PRESENTATION FOR CHALICE:

Lady Freya, Keeper of Femininity, bless this chalice. Let it be as Thy cauldron, a vessel of productivity that it may be worthy to dispense Thy bounty. Let it be used in Thy service and in the service of humanity. Let it be so bound that no harm may come of it to any being, but let it rather be an instrument of goodwill and understanding; of loving harmony. To Thy sacred self I dedicate this vessel, (name of vessel), that it and I may long be of service to Thee.

Lord Thor, companion to the Lady, champion of the Gods, bless this chalice and keep watch over it. Guard the works which come forth from it, that they ever be in the service of Thee and Thy Lady, that they be of service to humankind, and that they abide by the laws of harmony. To Thee I vow I shall use it for Her sacred purposes, and for no other.

So mote it be.

PRESENTATION FOR ATHAME:

Lord Thor, thunderer & hammer wielder, bless this athame. Let it be as the spring rains which fall upon the Earth to cause Her to bring forth Her bounty.

Let it quicken my hopes and dreams, yet keep them from causing harm. Let it guide them in the harmony of the seasons, bringing forth only good for all. Lord Thor, bless this athame, (name of athame), that it be used ever in the worship and honor of the Gods.

Lady Freya, companion to the Thunderer, lover of the Gods, bless this athame that it shall bring forth joy, and shall cause no pain nor disharmony to any. I dedicate this athame (name athame), symbol of the Defender and Rain Maker, to Thy service. May it ever bring Thee joy and pride.

So mote it be.

(This ritual, with suitable changes, may be used to dedicate other tools as well as these.)

Source: http://www.sacred-texts.com/bos/bos006.htm

Scott Cunningham's Book of Shadows

Scott Cunningham's Book of Shadows

"A long-lost Book of Shadows..."

(Click on book for more information)

Pagan | Wiccan Spiritual Counseling & Leadership

Pagan ▫ Wiccan Spiritual Counseling & Leadership

The following is an update regarding the Temple of Kemetic Wicca's focus, agenda, and action items:

Pagan ▫ Wiccan Business Development, Leadership & Mentorship
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Crisis Counseling
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Ministerial Leadership & Development
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Spiritual Counseling
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Spiritual Counseling and Care
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Spiritual Counseling Ethics
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Spiritual Personal Deliverance
Pagan ▫ Wiccan Temple Formation & Operation
The Pagan ▫ Wiccan Spiritual Counselor
The Pagan ▫ Wiccan Ministerial Leader
The Pagan ▫ Wiccan Ministerial Leader's Mindset

To learn more, contact the Temple directly.

Em Hetep,
Ankh ▪ Udja ▪ Seneb!

Dr. Kheti A. Sahure, DD, MscD, ThD
Elder High Priest ▪ Arch Hierophant

© 2009 Temple of Kemetic Wicca

A History of Witchcraft and Magic

The history of witchcraft and magic
An historical overview of how modern-day magic evolved from the beliefs and customs of the Celts and other ancient, Indo-European peoples.

The roots of magic come from the Celts, a people living between 700 BC and 100 AD. Believed to be descendants of Indo-Europeans, the Celts were a brilliant and dynamic people – gifted artists, musicians, storytellers, metalworkers, expert farmers and fierce warriors. They were much feared by their adversaries, the Romans, who eventually adopted a number of their customs and traditions.

The Celts were a deeply spiritual people, who worshiped both a god and goddess. Their religion was pantheistic, meaning they worshiped many aspects of the "One Creative Life Source" and honored the presence of the "Divine Creator" in all of nature. Like many tribes the world over, they believed in reincarnation. After death, they went to the Summerland for rest and renewal while awaiting rebirth.

The months of the Celtic year were named after trees. The Celtic new year began at Samhain, which means "summers end," and was the final harvest of the year. This was also their "Festival of the Dead," where they honored their ancestors and deceased loved ones. Many contemporary Halloween customs come from Samhain.

Next on the wheel of the Celtic year was the Winter Solstice, celebrating the annual rebirth of the Sun. Our Christmas customs today are similar to this ancient celebration. Around the beginning of February came Imbolg, a time when domesticated animals began to give birth. The Spring Equinox and Beltaine, sometimes called "May Day," were fertility festivals. The Summer Solstice, known as Lughnassa, celebrated the glory of the Sun and the powers of nature. Lughnassa, the Fall Equinox, and Samhain, were considered as Celtic harvest festivals.

The "Druids" were the priests of the Celtic religion. They remained in power through the fourth century AD, three centuries after the Celts' defeat at the hands of the Romans. The Druids were priests, teachers, judges, astrologers, healers and bards. They became indispensable to the political leaders, giving them considerable power and influence. They were peacemakers, and were able to pass from one warring tribe to another unharmed. It took twenty years of intense study to become a Druid.

Translated, the word Druid means "knowing the oak tree." Trees, the oak in particular, were held sacred by the Celts. Mistletoe, which grows as a parasite on oak trees, was a powerful herb used in their ceremonies and for healing. Mistletoe was ritually harvested at the Summer Solstice by cutting it with a golden sickle and catching it with a white cloth while never letting it fall to the ground.

The religious beliefs and practices of the Celts grew into what later became known as Paganism, not to be confused with the term Neo-Paganism, which is beyond the scope of this writing. The word Pagan is derived from the Latin word Paganus, meaning "country dweller." This outgrowth was consistent with the Celts' love for the land and their holding such things as the oak tree and mistletoe sacred.

Paganistic beliefs and rituals blended with those of other Indo-European descended groups, and over several centuries spawned such practices as concocting potions and ointments, casting spells, and performing works of magic. These practices, along with many of the nature-based beliefs held by the Celts and other groups, became collectively known as witchcraft.

The term witch, which means to "twist or bend," has its origin in the ancient, Anglo-Saxon word "wicca," which is derived from the word "wicce," which means "wise." Witch is also related to the German word, "weihen," which means "to consecrate or bless." Some say that the origins of the witch date back thousands of years, to the days when the goddess was worshiped and humanity had great reverence for the powers of nature and for women as creators of new life. In the "New Age" philosophy, this relates to the concept of "Gaia," or "Mother Earth," which views planet earth as essentially a living being.

Prior to the 14th century, witchcraft came to mean a collection of beliefs and practices including healing through spells, mixing ointments or concoctions, dabbling in the supernatural, divining or forecasting the future, and engaging in clairvoyance. Groups holding to other beliefs and rituals often branded witchcraft as "demon-worship."

After North America was discovered and Europeans began migrating to the new land, witchcraft came into practice by some of the early, colonial settlers. Since it had previously been branded as "demon-worship," witchcraft was forbidden throughout the North American colonies. Despite this decree by the powers of the day, some colonists secretly practiced witchcraft knowing they would be hanged or burned if caught. It has been said that certain rituals performed by early-American witches helped shield their settlements from attacks by Native Americans.

Magic can effect many outcomes, some good and some evil, depending on the type of magic and the intentions of the practitioner. The more well-known types of magic are denoted by colors.

"Black magic" is performed with the intention of harming another being, either as a means of building the practitioner's power or as the goal itself. The underlying ideology upon which black magic is based states that the practitioner and his or her pursuit of knowledge and/or physical well-being, are more important than other concerns, theological or ethical. "Green magic" involves the practitioner's attuning himself or herself to nature and the world around him or her. "White magic" is where the practitioner attunes himself or herself to the needs of human society and attempts to meet those needs. This is a form of "personal betterment" magic, and does not entail harming other beings.

"Grey magic" is magic that is neither green, nor black, nor white, and which usually replaces the absolute stand of these realms with an ethical code that is particular to the practitioner. It is a type of magic all its own, and may be used for many different purposes. "Folk magic" is an eclectic collection of herbalism, faith healing, curses and hexes, candle magic, and other workings that has thrived in rural areas for centuries. There is also the term, "hedge wizard," which refers to an individual who attempts to practice magic with little or no formal training.

Source: © 2002 Pagewise
http://www.essortment.com/all/historyofmagi_rsav.htm

Witchcraft & Spellwork

Witchcraft Spells: How To Incorporate Magic Into Your Life for Health, Wealth and Happiness

Author: Tenzin Pemo

More and more people these days are turning to witchcraft, paganism and wiccan spiritual practices as more meaningful and inclusive forms of religion.

Since the printing of Gerald Gardner Witchcraft Today, thousands have discovered the power it can have. Although we live in a highly modernized, technological world, the ancient wisdom and knowledge that is imparted through witchcraft is still relevant today, if in fact even more so, since it is a peaceful, inclusive and deeply conscious tradition, that reveres the earth and earthly cycles.

In this day and age, which is dominated by war and wanton environmental destruction, witchcraft offers a gentle nonviolent alternative way of making sense of our world.

Some people sadly, fear witchcraft because they wrongly associate it with the dark arts of Satanism.

This is a grave misconception, which witches everywhere are seeking to dispel. According to Gardner, contrary to the popular perceptions, witchcraft is more to do with honoring the earth and the divine feminine.

In fact, most people who practice witchcraft, do so because it is holistic, non-judgmental and non-patriarchal inasmuch as it honors the sacred creativity of women, and recognizes the life-giving force of the earth upon which we live.

Many people see witchcraft as a deeply ecological religion, that seeks to protect the earth and its gifts to humans.

Whether you want to incorporate witchcraft into your life in a serious and dedicated manner, or simply want to explore this spiritual tradition, learning about it first is the way forward.

Because it is such a poorly understood and much maligned spiritual tradition, many witches are very private about their beliefs. In fact, most will not reveal themselves to be witches.

Whether you go on to join a coven, or merely incorporate magic into your life on a private level, you too can start to weave spells into your life in order to transform your day to day reality.

Many novices start out by practicing what I like to describe as practical magic spells that can be incorporated into your life without requiring much effort or time.

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

1) Protection charm

If you are concerned about your own well-being, or the well-being of someone dear to you, make sure you (or that other person) carries something blue on the body. By wearing something blue on your person, you will ward off destructive or negative forces.

A good tip for women is to sew blue ribbon into their bras and underwear so that no matter what you are wearing on the outside, you will always have something blue on your body to protect you.

For men, carrying blue beads in your pocket is one way of performing this charm. Although this is a simple charm to carry out, it is extraordinarily effective. I recently gave a blue bead on a string to a male friend of mine who had been unceremoniously dumped by his girlfriend.

He told me that within a day of carrying the bead he had not only gotten over his negative feelings about his girlfriend, but had secured a highly lucrative art deal and was felt he was on a path of rebirth.

He carries his blue bead everywhere as a matter of course now.

2) House charm

Many people want to know how they can protect their homes from negative forces. This is a very simple spell that ensures your home draws in positivity, friendship and love.

It can be performed at any time, but I recommend your do it when your family or flat-mates are not present, as you do not want to be interrupted. To cleanse the house of any negative spirits or emotions, you light a candle and go from room to room, reciting the qualities that you want to exist in your home.

When I performed this spell, I went from room to room, saying things like Peace, Happiness, Creativity, Love, Friends, Laughter etc etc. Once you have visited every room, take a sprig of lavender and tie it above each external door.

By tying lavender above the entrances to your house, you ensure that only good elements pass into it.

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

About the Author:

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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Witchcraft Spells: How To Incorporate Magic Into Your Life for Health, Wealth and Happiness

Association of Smith Pagans aims to educate - Features

Association of Smith Pagans aims to educate - Features

History of Witchcraft

History of Witchcraft

Hex Witch and History of Witchcraft forums have been combined and will now be known as History of Witchcraft. Topics of interest include but are not limited to:

▪ Aboriginal Witchcraft
▪ Afrikan Witchcraft
▪ Animalia (Familiars & Minions)
▪ Black Magick
▪ Blood Rituals
▪ Candle Magick
▪ Cauldron Magick
▪ Cemetery (Graveyard) Spellwork
▪ Chaos Magick
▪ Dark Witchcraft
▪ Demonology
▪ Fire Magick
▪ Goofer Dust (Graveyard Dirt)
▪ Heathenism
▪ Heka
▪ Hoodoo
▪ Magick (General)
▪ Minions (Fawning, Servile Spirit Entities & Mundane Human Assistants)
▪ Native American Witchcraft
▪ Necromancy
▪ Night Witches
▪ Occultism
▪ Polarity Magick (Yin-Yang, Gender, Duality)
▪ Psychic Domination
▪ Ritual Cannibalism
▪ Rootwork (Conjure)
▪ Satanism (LHP)
▪ The Nature of Evil
▪ Vampyrism (Vampirism)
▪ Vodou (Voodoo)

This eGroup is devoted to researching and tracing the historical, anthropological, sociological roots and panoramic history of Witchcraft as well as the Universality of Witchcraft (Global Magick and Witchcraft). The beliefs, traditions, customs, and practices of an earlier time throughout social history will be examined. A concrete study of the evolution of the words, for example, "Witchcraft, Witch, Wicca, and Magic(k)" will be conducted from the insights and perspectives of Alternative Religion Spiritualists. Our endeavors also include the origins (etymologies) of the words "Pagan, Paganism, and Neo-Paganism". From an independent and alternative research approach, topic and subject matter include: The Salem Witch Hunts and Witch Trials; Witchcraft Persecutions and Religious Zealotry; Medieval Magick; Renaissance Mages; Astrology in Antiquity; Religion and Magick During the Middle Ages; the Influence of Alchemy and Esoteric Mysticism on Early Witchcraft practices; Folklore; Grimoires and Book of Shadows (BoS); Spellwork, Incantations, and Rituals; Daemonology (Demonology); and human motivation as it relates to and influences spiritual consciousness. Last but not least, this a place where you will find hexes, curses, incantations, and all kinds of spells, rituals, and ceremonies of malcontent. Please share your curio with Hex Witch.

This forum is not for the squeamish, faint of heart, or those who are easily offended. You must be age 18+ to join.

History of Witchcraft

Visit this group

Temple of Kemetic Wicca - Resources 2009 C.E.

History of Witchcraft

This discussion eGroup is devoted to researching and tracing the historical roots and panoramic history of Witchcraft as well as the Universality of Witchcraft (Global Magick and Witchcraft). The beliefs, traditions, customs, and practices of an earlier time throughout social history will be examined. A concrete study of the evolution of the words, for example, "Witchcraft, Witch, Wicca, and Magic(k)" will be conducted from the insights and perspectives of Alternative Religion Spiritualists. Our endeavors also include the origins (etymologies) of the words "Pagan, Paganism, and Neo-Paganism". From an independent and alternative research approach, topic and subject matter include: The Salem Witch Hunts and Witch Trials; Witchcraft Persecutions and Religious Zealotry; Medieval Magick; Renaissance Mages; Astrology in Antiquity; Religion and Magick During the Middle Ages; the Influence of Alchemy and Esoteric Mysticism on Early Witchcraft practices; Folklore; Grimoires and Book of Shadows (BoS); Spellwork, Incantations, and Rituals; Daemonology (Demonology); and human motivation as it relates to and influences spiritual consciousness.

Hex Witch

Hex Witch is a place where you will find hexes, curses, incantations, and all kinds of spells, rituals, and ceremonies of malcontent. The Art of Hexing and Hexwork from around the world and throughout history, from ancient to modern times, will be discussed as well as how to go about the Transference & Transformation of Energy in your Occult, Magickal workings.

Topics of discussion include but are not limited to:

▪Aboriginal Witchcraft
▪Afrikan Witchcraft
▪Animalia (Familiars & Minions)
▪Black Magick
▪Blood Rituals
▪Candle Magick
▪Cauldron Magick
▪Cemetery (Graveyard) Spellwork
▪Chaos Magick
▪Dark Witchcraft
▪Demonology
▪Fire Magick
▪Goofer Dust (Graveyard Dirt)
▪Heathenism
▪Hoodoo
▪Magick (General)
▪Minions (Fawning, Servile Spirit Entities & Mundane Human Assistants)
▪Native American Witchcraft
▪Necromancy
▪Night Witches
▪Occultism
▪Polarity Magick (Yin-Yang, Gender, etc.)
▪Psychic Domination
▪Rootwork (Conjure)
▪Satanism (LHP)
▪The Nature of Evil
▪Vampyrism (Vampirism)
▪Vodou (Voodoo)

This forum is not for the squeamish, faint of heart, or those who are easily offended. You must be age 18+ to join. This eGroup is overseen, facilitated, guided, and moderated by the ordained Priests & Priestesses of the Temple of Kemetic Wicca.

Antiquus Research Group

The Antiquus Research Group (ARGroup) is an independent, non-profit organization and project devoted to the research, study, teaching, and cogent analysis of the ancient, ancestral, historical, cultural-anthropological, sociological, religio-spiritual, and metaphysical practices of humankind who engaged in the vastness of Alternative Religions  and Spiritualities (ARS) through modern times. The scope and focus involve conducting purposeful independent, original research utilizing technology, innovative qualitative and quantitative (statistical) research design methods. We offer a knowledge base where one can learn the rudiments of social science and humanities research from the basic (simple) through the advanced (complex). Our research projects focus on Afrikan (African) Traditional Religions (e.g., Ifá, Santería, Vodou-Voodoo), Ancient Theology, Archaeology, Divination, Egyptology, Esoteric Mysticism, Geology (crystals, minerals, rocks, and stones), Herbalism, Hoodoo (an African-centric, ethnocultural spirituality and practice of Rootwork - Conjure), Kemeticism (a modern reconstruction and interpretation of Ancient Egyptian religion), Magick, Native American Spirituality, Paganism, Rituals, Shamanism, Spellwork, Wicca (the religion), and Witchcraft (the practice).

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Antiquus_Research_Group

Applicatus Occultus Metaphysicus

Applied Occult Metaphysics is for those seekers who are interested in the diverse applications of Witchcraft, Afrikan Traditional Religions (Santería, Vodou, Yoruba Ifá), Kemeticism, Kemetic (Egyptian) Wicca, Hoodoo Rootwork, Traditional Paganism & Neo-Paganism, Pagan Theology, Magick (Heka), Spellwork, Rituals, Divination, Holistic Healing, Esoteric Mysticism & Mystickal Systems, Kinesis, Mythology, Herbalism & Botanicals, Astrology, Tarot, Zoomorphism, Native American Spirituality, Shamanism, Cosomology, I Ching, Thelema (Crowley), Ontology, Sacred Geometry, Psionics, Kabbalah (Qabala), Enochian Magick, Celtic Witchcraft, Philosophy, Theosophy, Hermeticism, Energy Work (e.g., Reiki, Chakra Attunement, Radionics, Auras, Hypnosis (NLP), Radiesthesia, Orgonomy & Orgone Energy) and so much more from the learned perspectives and experientials of practitioners of Alternative Religions & Spiritualities (ARS) worldwide. Newcomers and Seekers of spiritual enlightenment are welcome to apply for membership.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Applied_Occult_Metaphysics

Musing: Xtian (Christian) Wicca

The roots of today's so-called "mainstream (Abrahamic) world religions" have absolutely evolved out of culturally indigenous religio-spiritual practices of our ancestors.

The prevailing "rhetorical" questions remain:

1. Who "borrowed" from whom?
(This answer is obvious based upon historical truths!)

2. Are not all so-called Abrahamic world religions of today Pagan in deference to the same culturally indigenous religio-spiritual practices of our ancestors?

All in all, and please take note of the true and actual definition, meaning, or etymology (i.e., the study of the origin and history of words) of the terms Wicca, Witchcraft, Pagan, Witch, Paganism, etc. None of these words or terminologies actually support what the misinformed mainstream religious "pundits" have created, promoted, disseminated, and perpetuated for centuries through the here and now!

Thus, how does anyone proclaim or affirm that there is a spiritual connection between the diverse belief systems of Wicca (nature-based, polytheistic, pantheistic, matriarchal and patriarchal, and goddess (yin)-god (yang) forms) and Christianity (monotheistic and patriarchal ONLY--and always out of balance and out of synchronization within the universe, the universal forces of nature, the energies of life and spirit within the cosmos which has contributed majorly to chaos globally during all of our mundane presentations of everyday life).

Hetep-u!

Frater Kheti A. Sahure
Temple of Kemetic Wicca

The Temple of Kemetic Wicca

Hail,

We are pleased to announce the rebirth of
The
Temple of Kemetic Wicca
(ToKW)

Em hetep,

Ankh, Udja, Seneb!

Rev. Frater K.A. Sahure, D.D., Msc.D., Th.D.
Rev. Frater P.M. Lorca, D.D., D.Met.
~ Presiding Spiritual Overseers of the Temple ~

"The Adventurous Witch"

THE ADVENTUROUS WITCH

I shall put my witches hat on my head,
Grab my cloak, and go out into the world!
My broom has a knapsack tied to it
With a change of clothes, my spell book
And a tiny statue (or two) of the Goddess.

I shall walk on foot to tone up my body
And avoid fast food places on the way.
When I get tired, my broom can carry me,
High up near the stars, to wave at the moon.
It is time for my Vision Quest, witchy style.

Who knows who and what I may encounter?
Life is such an adventure, anyway
And I am tired of it just being a damn soap opera.
(There is one soap opera that I like to watch
But I couldn't fit the mini-tv in my knapsack).

As it becomes dark, I can see energies
Swirling all around me and my cat Scratchie...
(Did I forget to mention my familiar)?
Too bad I couldn't shrink a lover
And bring him along in case I get horny.

The only thing about shrinking people is,
Spells can boomerang at times. Yep.
When I get sleepy I will find a place to land
Hopefully someplace soft and dry
So I can cuddle up in my cloak and rest.

I have found out the hard way before
That it is not a good thing to fall asleep
While flying the broomstick...
Scratchie got SO mad at me the last time!
I had to try to heal my broken ribs myself

And had to walk scrunched over for awhile.
But I digress, as usual.
Anyway, back to the stars and adventure.
It gets tiresome being a secret witch
And not getting to zap anybody that bugs me!

Peaceful thoughts, peaceful thoughts...
I can see that nature isn't going to do it,
I will have to meditate as well
And I didn't bring my yoga pillow for posture.
I did bring a few candles

But dammitall, I forgot the matches
And I'm not good with Fire Elementals.
Salamanders just look too much like lizards,
Don't you think so?
I wonder where there are mice for Scratchie?

Well, anyway I look damn sexy
With my black velveteen cloak with red lining
And my quilted leather spike boots
OMG! I forgot to bring deodorant.
Oh well, I will just look for nature spirits

And ask where the nearest stream is
And what they use for soap.
This is really a new learning curve for me,
Going Back to Nature, being a Green Witch
Just like my ancestors!
...This will be such fun?...

© Copyright 2/4/08
Beth Clare Johnson
(Mystic Raven)