Beginning a journey into witchcraft is often a personal and transformative process. There are many different paths, beliefs, and traditions to explore. One concept that appears in many practices is polarity, which refers to the balance of masculine and feminine energies. For some, invoking the divine masculine is central to their rituals and understanding of the Wheel of the Year, while for others, it is less emphasized. Whether practicing alone or with a group, learning about these energies can add depth to your spiritual exploration.
The charge of the God, or the invocation of masculine energy, is a tradition found in various forms of witchcraft. This practice honors the masculine aspects of divinity, often represented by gods linked to the sun, the wild, and the cycles of nature. Those interested in this energy may choose to connect through meditation, visualizing a god form that feels meaningful. This could be a mythological deity, a symbolic figure, or an abstract idea of masculine energy.
The following words are traditionally attributed to the Father, who is described as both son and consort of the Great Mother. He is said to be born from the beginning, from the Mother who created the universe. These words are intended as a poetic reflection on the role of the divine masculine within the cycles of life and nature.
‘I am He, the wild untamed power of the hunt, the horned beasts and the woodland, that offers food, shelter and protection to people of all races, clans and creeds. I am Cernunnos, horned Lord of Winter; as Master of the Animals and Lord of the Corn, I offer willing sacrifice for the land and people; as King of the Dark Places beneath the soil, in the nurturing womb of the Mother, like all creatures who have entered the gentle Earth, I grow strong again, resting but never slumbering, until I hear the call at the darkest and coldest hour to be reborn as Lugh, radiant son; at that hour I bring the promise that the Sun will not die, but as the wheel turns bring lighter days and the promise of spring as the mid-winter yoke is conquered once more.
These words describe the recurring themes of life, death, and rebirth, which are important in many witchcraft traditions. The God is often seen as a protector and provider, representing the wild forces of nature. He is associated with sacrifice for the land and people, and with the renewal that comes as the seasons change.
‘I bring power, strength, courage and nobility to defend the weak and the vulnerable, and to give of my life blood to maintain what is of worth and just and lovely. Mine is not the path of ease, but of ecstasy in the wild wood where the untamed instincts bow only to natural law and natural justice; as the fruit of the sacred vine, Lord of the Dance, the young stag who masters the old; as the Barley King, I dance and laugh and sing of the spirit that never can be broken, of the potency of the life force coursing through my loins to bring increase and abundance, as fields and the animals and humankind are made fertile by the sacred coupling beneath the may bowers and blossoming trees.
The God’s journey is described as one of courage, strength, and sometimes sacrifice. He is also called the Lord of the Dance, symbolizing joy and vitality, and is seen as a source of fertility and abundance. Through his union with the Goddess, the cycles of nature are renewed, supporting growth and prosperity.
‘Birth follows death, plenty follows dearth, creation follows necessary destruction, and so renewed, I dedicate myself to the sanctity of all life ruled by the highest of intent and in humility in the hour of my greatest triumph.’
This dedication highlights the ongoing cycles in nature, where every ending leads to a new beginning. The God’s humility and commitment to life are presented as examples for practitioners, encouraging respect for life and thoughtful action.
As you continue to learn about witchcraft, it may be helpful to explore different traditions and connect with the energies that feel right for you. Creating personal rituals and invocations is common. Whether you choose to work with the God, the Goddess, or both, following your intuition and honoring the sacred in your life are often considered important aspects of the journey.
