Author: A Solitary Pagan
The Celtic Tree Calendar
The Celtic Tree Calendar is a controversial subject. It is a calendar which contains 13 lunar divisions (or months), each one associated with and ruled over by a specific tree. Each tree has a Celtic Ogham symbol associated with it (from the Celtic Ogham Alphabet). Each of the themes of the months tie in with Celtic culture and mythology. However, it is controversial because there is no actual evi...
Celtic Herb Lore
Celtic Herbs: Anemone Latin: Anemone Pulsatilla Scottish Gaelic: Bainne Bo Bliatain Other Names: Wood Crowfoot, Smell Fox, Flawflower, Passover Flower Medicinal Uses: Effective against disorders of the mucous membranes, indigestion, catarrhhal affections of the eye, catarrhal diarrhea, menstrual difficulties, swolen testicles, bladder difficulties relating to age, spasmodic and whooping cough, bro...
Circle Casting
It’s helpful when casting a spell to create ritual space, and casting a circle is one way to do so. Not only does this ward off distracting energies, it helps to move the practitioner to a ritual state of mind. Not every practitioner casts a circle in the same way and often it’s best to experiment a bit and find what works for you. Here’s a general guide: 1. Determine how much space you’ll need in...
Casting Spells Using Planetary Hours Magical Timing
Many witches believe that timing can make spells more effective. One helpful way to time your magic is by using planetary hours. Planetary hours are especially useful when the moon’s phase or sign isn’t ideal, because they add another layer of energy to your work. Although calculating planetary hours might seem complicated at first, it becomes simple once you learn the steps. In this chapter, we’l...
Why we cast Circles
They say that the longest journey begins with a single step. So, too, the exploration of Magickal studies begins with a single step. Though the first step in a physical journey is often self-evident, the First Step on a Magickal journey is often not quite so clear. While formally organized groups often have a path of lessons to instruct newcomers, the solitary or isolated student is often left sta...
Casting A Dual Circle
First consecrate the salt symbolizing the Earth element in the North of the altar by stirring it three times with an athame, wand or crystal, and visualize radiance pouring into it. * Stir the water, also three times deosil with the athame, wand or pointed crystal, asking the light and the Goddess to enter it. * Add a few grains of salt to the water and stir it, saying: May power thus be doubled,t...
Casting A Triple Circle
Three is a sacred number in magick and for special ceremonies, you can create a triple circle of both power and protection. The number three represents the three aspects of the god figure in many religions: the Holy Trinity, the Triple Goddess, the three aspects of the Moon -maiden, mother and wise woman or crone – the trefoil or triple god of the Celts, and the even older Egyptian trinity of Isis...
Un Casting A Circle
When you have completed your spells or rituals, you should close the circle. This is done by simply reversing the casting process. * Thank the Guardians and send the light of the elemental candles to whoever needs it. * Extinguish the elemental candles in reverse order of lighting. Visualize the light fading and say,together with any present: Let the circle be uncast but remain unbroken. Merry mee...
Casting a Circle
Here is how to cast and take down a magic circle.What to Do:
Suggestions for Candle Magick
Whenever possible make your own candles. While the wax is in a liquid form, add a corresponding oil, herbs, or flower petals. For example, if you are doing a money spell you could add Heliotrope oil and mint leaves. When dressing the candle, close your eyes, concentrate, and visualize what the candle represents. See in your mind’s eye the manifestation of your desire. Always keep in mind, and allo...
Ingredients for Candle Making
Beeswax The most common types of wax used in candle making are beeswax, paraffin wax, and dip-and-carve wax. Beeswax is an all natural wax with a sweet aroma. It is preferred because it adds softness and beauty to candles and it also increases burning time. It is also more expensive. Beeswax comes in one-pound cakes or sheets. The sheets are sometimes used for making rolled candles. The rectangula...
Elemental Candle Colours
Each of the four elements – Air, Fire, Water and Earth – is represented by a single candle colour – yellow, red, blue and green. A coloured candle representing each of the elements can be placed at the four main compass points around the circle to mark the quarters – East, South, West and North. You can place the elemental candles either on the edge of the circle in sturdy floor-standing holders, ...