Author: A Solitary Pagan
Cockerels
Throughout history, the cock, or rooster, has held a significant place in spiritual and magical traditions worldwide. Its distinctive crow and colorful feathers have made it a symbol of light, goodness, and the dispersal of darkness. In many ancient societies, cocks were chosen as sacrificial birds, believed to carry prayers and offerings to the divine. The cock is often associated with the sun. M...
Cats
Throughout history, cats have been closely linked to the supernatural. They are often seen as symbols of both good and bad luck, and have been associated with healing as well as harm. In many folk traditions, cats are considered favored companions of witches, sorcerers, and fortune-tellers. Numerous superstitions about cats exist across cultures. In ancient Egypt, cats were regarded as sacred anim...
Riding the Dragon
Many Traditional Crafters have an interesting relationship with dragons. Some see them as archetypes, some as being similar to the Gods, and some see them as living mythical beasts, in a very literal way. It is certainly true that myths and legends involving dragons are central to many of the traditional cultures from which British Witchcraft derives. In Sumerian and Babylonian mythology we have T...
Animal Kinship
Across many cultures and throughout history, people have recognized a meaningful connection between humans and animals. This idea is based on the belief that animals have unique qualities and strengths, and that forming a bond with them can help individuals access these attributes. In witchcraft and spiritual practices, this relationship is often explored through the concept of animal totems or sp...
The Magick of Animals
Throughout history, many animals have been recognized for their magickal qualities, which can be drawn upon in times of need. Selecting an animal that embodies a personality trait you wish to cultivate or strengthen can be a meaningful part of your practice. For example, the bear is associated with introspection, stability, and wisdom. Its strength is reflected in its ability to hibernate, a time ...
Black Cat Protection Spell
This powerful ritual helps shield you from negativity, deflect psychic harm, and invite a change in fortune. You will need the following:A black cat-shaped candle, Black cat oil, made from patchouli and frankincense, And a mirror. Begin your ritual on a waxing moon night, as close to midnight as you can. Set the mirror on your altar or a small table, with the reflective side facing up. Anoint the ...
The Dragon in Magick
The dragon is a fantastic beast that appears in almost every mythological tradition throughout the world. Often depicted as a mix of several different creatures, it represents the four elements of life: air, fire, water, and earth. The dragon has the wings of a bird and is covered with the scales of a fish or snake. It is capable of breathing fire, and usually guards a horde of treasure deep withi...
Cats as Witches Familiars
Throughout history, cats—especially black cats—have often been associated with witchcraft. This connection is not only based on superstition, but also on the unique qualities and symbolic roles that cats have held in different cultures over time. In European folklore, the image of a witch’s cottage frequently includes a cat. These cats, sometimes called Baudrons or Grimalkin, are usually described...
Hare
In folklore, a witch’s familiar or a witch metamorphosed in disguise. It is still bad luck in the British Isles for one’s path to be crossed by a hare. Witches were said to be able to change themselves into hares and other animals with magical charms such as the following from the British Isles: I shall go into a hare, With sorrow and such and muckle care, And I shall go in the Devil’s name. Ay, ’...
A Ritual With Seven Angels
Beginning a witchcraft journey is often a personal and transformative process. Individuals may approach the craft for various reasons, and identifying a personal path can be helpful. This guide presents factual information and practical steps for exploring witchcraft. One common starting point is the creation of a sacred space. This space may be as simple as a small altar or as elaborate as a dedi...
Angelic Correspondences
In the practice of witchcraft, correspondences are systems that link spiritual energies to physical objects, times, or actions. Angelic correspondences specifically refer to the associations between particular angels and aspects of magical work, such as days of the week, planetary hours, or ritual intentions. You can, if you wish, use angelic rulers instead of planetary ones for the magical hours,...
A Ritual to meet your Guardian Angel
In the hoodoo and conjure tradition, spirit work often involves seeking the assistance of discarnate entities to achieve specific spiritual, prayerful, or spell-casting objectives. The term “spirit work” can refer to a wide range of altar practices, prayers, and magical traditions. Root doctors may reach out to spirits, angels, or spirit guides for support. For those interested in this...