Call to the God
Ancient God of the forest deeps,
Master of beast and Sun;
Here where the world is hushed and sleeps
Now that the day is done.
I call You in the ancient way
Here in my circle round.
Asking that You will hear me pray
And send your Sun force down.
Invocation to the God
Blazing God,
You Who are the King of the Gods
Lord of the Sun,
master of all that is wild and free;
Father of woman and man,
Lover of the Moon Goddess and protector of all the Wicca:
Descend I pray,
with Your Solar ray of power
upon my circle here!
Horned God Invocation:
By the flame that burns bright Horned One!
We call your name into the night Horned One!
Come to the charm of the chanted prayer
As the moon bewitches the midnight air .
Invoke the powers, that potent bide
In shining stream and secret tide
Come! To the heartbeats drum!
Word of virtue and rend the veil.
From creation to destruction
Eldest of gods, on thee we call.
Arawn Invocation:
We call out to the Gods that our pleas are heard.
By sacred smoke and blessed water.
Lord Arawn, Guardian of the Dead!
Come at my call and show thyself to men.
As the veil is lifted, the night winds bless us with sight.
I Invoke the powers, of Anwnn.
Forgotten are the ways of sleep and night,
Men seek for them whose eyes have lost the light.
Open the door, the door which hath no key,
The door of dreams, whereby men come to thee.
Dioncecht Invocation:
Father of Airmed, her divine herbal knowledge.
Father of Cien, crafter of flesh limbs.
Giver of Nuada’s Silver Arm.
Come to those who have need of your skill,
By the drum of my heartbeat.
Rend the veil, From creation to destruction.
Eldest of Gods, on thee we call!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Invocations to A God...
As a prayer it implies to call upon a God or Goddess, a person, etc. When a person calls upon a deity to ask for something (protection, a favor, his/her spiritual presence in a ceremony, etc.) or simply for worship, this can be in a pre-established form with the invoker's own words or actions.
While Invocations used to call the Gods into us, they can take many different forms, meditation, chants, prayers or dance. Many people write a different invocation for each ritual, honoring a different God. I prefer to have one invocation that I can alter to fit any event, it makes it easier to memorize so I can focus more on my visualizations and intent than on my words. Writing special invocations only as need requires.
How to Invoke a Spirit:
Invoking forces will actually call them to your circle and altar for their help and their presence. You will most likely not see them, but they have a tendency to manifest themselves as breezes, noises, talking, moving objects or nothing at all. If you see no signs of them, it does not mean they are not there. Why might you want to cast a ritual of this sort? Say for example you have chosen Pan as one of your Gods. You may want to give him notice that you have done so and from time to time, give him thanks. Perhaps you need help with a spell you are casting for the healing of a family member and want the spirit world to aid you.
There are many reasons why we might Invoke a spirit or deity, it is a personal decision why one might need the added influence of drawing a Deity into you.
Step One - Set the Stage:
If you know that you are going to be invoking a God for ritual, especially if you don't work with that God often. Take some time for three nights before the ceremony to meditate, now most Witches I know don't put this much fan-fair into the occasion, some take an hour prior to the ritual and others take the day of the rite. I like to give a God solid advance notice. Burn some incense that has a corresponding relationship with the God in question, and light a candle. Green for the Horned God, Red for Bel, Black or Gold for Arawn.
Find the right combination of scent and candle before you begin.
I prefer to work this stage Sky-clad. Using a dark colored eye-liner pencil draw tribal designs from wrist to elbow, on your face and chest, if you have long hair leave it down.
Music is up to you. I like heavy drums. If you plan on working outside, then set up and get to work. If you plan on working inside, close the windows and light the incense in the room ten minutes before you start.
Step Two - Visualization:
Invoking a God requires that we tap into the most primal portion of our subconscious. Focus on physical sensation, adrenalin, the weight of horns, lust, any physical trait’s the God you’re summoning might have, fit that image over your own body, and feel your body shifting to fill those descriptions, fire filling your eyes, heavy tribal tattoos covering your flesh.
Use this time to build energy, move, dance, drum, live.
Build the God into your body, then begin to speak your invocation. Feeling the changes and power of the God as you build to climax.
Step Three - Spoken Summons:
An invocation is a spoken or chanted form of calling the presence of a deity close. Invocations are used throughout many rituals, but they can be used as a ritual itself. Invocations are used to rouse the spirit within the individual, and also to call outside forces in.
There are many different types of invocations, and they can all have different results depending on what energy you are calling upon. Invocations are not meant to be taken lightly, and the forces called upon can be very strong. However, invoking the spirit can be a very beautiful and blessed experience.
The words you choose should be simple, elegant and powerful.
There are many traditional invocations that are used by different people around the world. The strength of the invocation is only as strong as the will and intent of the person performing it. Because invocations are spoken words, the particular words of the invocation are extremely important. Words are powerful things, they draw ideas, inspiration, and symbols to mind, They can also trigger the subconscious, and conscious in ways that no other method can.
While Invocations used to call the Gods into us, they can take many different forms, meditation, chants, prayers or dance. Many people write a different invocation for each ritual, honoring a different God. I prefer to have one invocation that I can alter to fit any event, it makes it easier to memorize so I can focus more on my visualizations and intent than on my words. Writing special invocations only as need requires.
How to Invoke a Spirit:
Invoking forces will actually call them to your circle and altar for their help and their presence. You will most likely not see them, but they have a tendency to manifest themselves as breezes, noises, talking, moving objects or nothing at all. If you see no signs of them, it does not mean they are not there. Why might you want to cast a ritual of this sort? Say for example you have chosen Pan as one of your Gods. You may want to give him notice that you have done so and from time to time, give him thanks. Perhaps you need help with a spell you are casting for the healing of a family member and want the spirit world to aid you.
There are many reasons why we might Invoke a spirit or deity, it is a personal decision why one might need the added influence of drawing a Deity into you.
Step One - Set the Stage:
If you know that you are going to be invoking a God for ritual, especially if you don't work with that God often. Take some time for three nights before the ceremony to meditate, now most Witches I know don't put this much fan-fair into the occasion, some take an hour prior to the ritual and others take the day of the rite. I like to give a God solid advance notice. Burn some incense that has a corresponding relationship with the God in question, and light a candle. Green for the Horned God, Red for Bel, Black or Gold for Arawn.
Find the right combination of scent and candle before you begin.
I prefer to work this stage Sky-clad. Using a dark colored eye-liner pencil draw tribal designs from wrist to elbow, on your face and chest, if you have long hair leave it down.
Music is up to you. I like heavy drums. If you plan on working outside, then set up and get to work. If you plan on working inside, close the windows and light the incense in the room ten minutes before you start.
Step Two - Visualization:
Invoking a God requires that we tap into the most primal portion of our subconscious. Focus on physical sensation, adrenalin, the weight of horns, lust, any physical trait’s the God you’re summoning might have, fit that image over your own body, and feel your body shifting to fill those descriptions, fire filling your eyes, heavy tribal tattoos covering your flesh.
Use this time to build energy, move, dance, drum, live.
Build the God into your body, then begin to speak your invocation. Feeling the changes and power of the God as you build to climax.
Step Three - Spoken Summons:
An invocation is a spoken or chanted form of calling the presence of a deity close. Invocations are used throughout many rituals, but they can be used as a ritual itself. Invocations are used to rouse the spirit within the individual, and also to call outside forces in.
There are many different types of invocations, and they can all have different results depending on what energy you are calling upon. Invocations are not meant to be taken lightly, and the forces called upon can be very strong. However, invoking the spirit can be a very beautiful and blessed experience.
The words you choose should be simple, elegant and powerful.
There are many traditional invocations that are used by different people around the world. The strength of the invocation is only as strong as the will and intent of the person performing it. Because invocations are spoken words, the particular words of the invocation are extremely important. Words are powerful things, they draw ideas, inspiration, and symbols to mind, They can also trigger the subconscious, and conscious in ways that no other method can.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
My Patron....
Developing a relationship with a God is a lot like courting a romance with a man. You look for all the right qualities’ with as few flaws as possible, but of course they must have flaws, its necessary to make them human. In marriage do we not, agree to take the good with the bad? We share every aspect of ourselves, even those we are neither fond or proud of.
Its reasonable to assert that before we commit ourselves to one particular God we try to learn all we can about them. Read the myths, meditate or invite them into ritual. In essence, we take that particular God for a test drive, hand fasting, a loose commitment before you decide to go for the real deal. Unfortunately by actively choosing our own Patron God’s we are allowing fear to guide us, possibly away from that which in the end will serve us best.
How many people do you know that work exclusively with Brigid or exclusively with Bran? Narrowing their vision to only the most benevolent deities, ignoring or passing up the slightly tarnished Balor or Morrigu. When either one will fight without fail for their friends and family.
As with much of my spiritual life, I have not made any decisions, instead permitting the spirits, for benefit or bane, to interact with me at their leisure. A strategy that has worked brilliantly for me, when I was about twelve I started to really understand the world, life, death, and a lot of what happened in between. In the wake of Operation Desert Storm, I saw the change that had taken root in family friends, military servicemen. I had lost family to illness and war.
I was also just beginning to recognize my own beliefs and open myself to a Polytheistic ideal, that Arawn came to me without giving his name or my issuing an invitation, he appeared in my mirror so clear that I could have touched him but for the glass. I couldn’t tell you how I knew his name, but later, reading the Mabinogion, I was startled by recognition and a feeling of awe.
On my fifteenth birthday I made the dedication to Arawn of my own accord, without looking back, I do consider myself to be a Priestess of Anwnn. Though the Welsh in my lineage has been thinned, my maternal family recognizes it, and privately recognize themselves as Welsh Royalty (how much of that is real and how much is delusion I have no clue).
I have been courted by Lord Arawn, I have given myself to Arawn, I accept the protection of the Welsh underworld, and all the power Anwnn would bestow upon me. Should aid be needed, it is he whom I would call upon. With absolute faith that it would be given to his faithful Priestess.
It is my ideal, to be accepted as his High Priestess, feel his presence within my body, my mind, and my soul.
After all, a true marriage is a union that reaches beyond this plain, I hope that I have done well by Courting him and being courted by him in return.
Now letting my faith work for me and guide me has had a wonderful rate of success, and allows me to be happy with all things, without fear or further thought I am happy. In a passing word of advise, don't allow fear to rule your decisions.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Its reasonable to assert that before we commit ourselves to one particular God we try to learn all we can about them. Read the myths, meditate or invite them into ritual. In essence, we take that particular God for a test drive, hand fasting, a loose commitment before you decide to go for the real deal. Unfortunately by actively choosing our own Patron God’s we are allowing fear to guide us, possibly away from that which in the end will serve us best.
How many people do you know that work exclusively with Brigid or exclusively with Bran? Narrowing their vision to only the most benevolent deities, ignoring or passing up the slightly tarnished Balor or Morrigu. When either one will fight without fail for their friends and family.
As with much of my spiritual life, I have not made any decisions, instead permitting the spirits, for benefit or bane, to interact with me at their leisure. A strategy that has worked brilliantly for me, when I was about twelve I started to really understand the world, life, death, and a lot of what happened in between. In the wake of Operation Desert Storm, I saw the change that had taken root in family friends, military servicemen. I had lost family to illness and war.
I was also just beginning to recognize my own beliefs and open myself to a Polytheistic ideal, that Arawn came to me without giving his name or my issuing an invitation, he appeared in my mirror so clear that I could have touched him but for the glass. I couldn’t tell you how I knew his name, but later, reading the Mabinogion, I was startled by recognition and a feeling of awe.
On my fifteenth birthday I made the dedication to Arawn of my own accord, without looking back, I do consider myself to be a Priestess of Anwnn. Though the Welsh in my lineage has been thinned, my maternal family recognizes it, and privately recognize themselves as Welsh Royalty (how much of that is real and how much is delusion I have no clue).
I have been courted by Lord Arawn, I have given myself to Arawn, I accept the protection of the Welsh underworld, and all the power Anwnn would bestow upon me. Should aid be needed, it is he whom I would call upon. With absolute faith that it would be given to his faithful Priestess.
It is my ideal, to be accepted as his High Priestess, feel his presence within my body, my mind, and my soul.
After all, a true marriage is a union that reaches beyond this plain, I hope that I have done well by Courting him and being courted by him in return.
Now letting my faith work for me and guide me has had a wonderful rate of success, and allows me to be happy with all things, without fear or further thought I am happy. In a passing word of advise, don't allow fear to rule your decisions.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Saturday, February 27, 2010
God Pantheon Cont.
As was requested by an e-mail from a reader here is a more refined Celtic God Pantheon. I keep it limited to just two pages in my Book of Shadows. This is not a Detailed listing of Gods as a referrance, it is a list of Gods as further research material can be found easily in my personal collection of Books.
Aengus (unique strength).Irish. Son of the Daghda. Associated with birds, particularly songbirds. An accomplished musician, He is considered a God of Beauty and perfection of form.
Aeron (slaughtering).Welsh. A war-god, a male Aspect of the Irish Morrigan. He is a later-period male counterpart to Agrona, of earlier British belief.
Arawn. Welsh. Lord of Annwn, the underworld and realm of departed spirits. He makes a pact with Pwyll, to exchange places with him for one year, in order that Pwyll might defeat an enemy, King Hafgan. Though Arawn set no conditions upon the exchange, when the pact was concluded and each had returned to his own heritage, Arawn discovered that Pwyll had denied himself the rights of a husband to Arawn's Lady. Thus Arawn swore a vow of friendship toward Pwyll.
Bran (raven, crow). Irish. A master of the Isle of Britain, he is a cauldron-God, associated with a cauldron of regeneration which would revive the slain while leaving them voiceless. His cauldron destroyed, and he mortally wounded in a war to rescue his sister Branwen, he instructed his adherents to decapitate him and, after many travels, bear the head to London and bury it, where it would become a defense and a protection to the whole Isle.
Cernunnos (horned one) Gaulish. The horned God associated with the Wild Hunt. A lord of the natural world, of animal and vegetive strength. See also, Gwynn and Herne.
Daghda (lord of skill). Irish. An important figure associated with a sacred well, and water in general. Also a fertility God. Various names and epithets of his seem to link him to horse-cults, fire, and knowledge. He is the father of many of the others, including Brigit, Mider, Aengus, Oghma, and Bodb Dearg. One who can be fooled, defeated, or bargained with by plying some idiosyncrasy or personal trait. His favored weapon is a giant club, or maul.
Dioncecht (swift ...).Irish. God closely associated with healing and mending of physical ills.
Goibhniu (smith).Irish. A God of smith craft, one of a trio (see also Credne and Luchta ). He is known as the provider of the Fled Goibnenn, a Sacred Feast. Associated, with brew crafting, he is said to have formulated a draught of immortality.
Gwynn ap Nudd. (Southern) Welsh. A Cthonic divinity, leader of the Wild Hunt, in chase of the White Stag. Closely paralleling the Gaulish Cernunnos and British Herne, he also has affiliations with the northern Welsh Arawn.
Hafgan.Welsh. A lord in Annwyn, and a mortal enemy of Arawn, he may only be slain if struck a single killing blow; to strike a mercy-blow to his mortally wounded body would be to revive him again. This is accomplished by Pwyll when he comes to Arawn's aid.
Lugh (light, brightness). Irish. Son of Cian, considered the Lord of the Tuatha De Danaan. His archetype derives from an early solar deity, and he has many epithets and sobriquets, among which: Long-arm, much-skilled, having many talents; seer; and boy-warrior.
Mabon (son, youth). Welsh. The God associated with youthfulness, he is sometimes conflated with Pryderi. His full name is "Mabon Ap Modron", which simply means "Son, son of Mother".
Manannan (Of the [Irish] sea). Irish. A Child of Lyr, the principal sea-God; his name derives from an earlier form of the Isle of Man. He possesses: the fabulous Crane-Bag, holder of all his treasures, including Language. As with many Sea-Gods, he has a close association with horses.
Oghma. Irish. A Child of the Daghda, a warrior God who is closely connected to knowledge, magick, and eloquence. The inventor of Ogham script; he is said to have designed the letters as a way of encoding knowledge- they were not granted to him by mystical vision.
Pwyll (wisdom, prudence). Welsh. Lord of Arberth. Father of Pryderi, Husband of Rhiannon, trusted associate of Arawn as related in the first book of the Mabinogi.
Taliesin (radiant-brow).Welsh. A semi-mythical figure whose life has become deeply intertwined with the Divinities of the Celts. He apparently lived in the 6th century CE, and was regarded as the premier poet of his or any other time. A book of his work exists from the 13th century; several of the works are regarded as genuine. He figures in many tales, Chiefly the story that he began as the boy Gwion, was asked by Cerridwen to watch the vessel in which she brewed a Knowledge potion, inadvertently tasted it himself, was pursued by her in a chase involving many shape-shifts, was swallowed by Her, to be reborn nine months later as the Divine bard.
Taran (thunder). Welsh/Continental. A war god.
Aengus (unique strength).Irish. Son of the Daghda. Associated with birds, particularly songbirds. An accomplished musician, He is considered a God of Beauty and perfection of form.
Aeron (slaughtering).Welsh. A war-god, a male Aspect of the Irish Morrigan. He is a later-period male counterpart to Agrona, of earlier British belief.
Arawn. Welsh. Lord of Annwn, the underworld and realm of departed spirits. He makes a pact with Pwyll, to exchange places with him for one year, in order that Pwyll might defeat an enemy, King Hafgan. Though Arawn set no conditions upon the exchange, when the pact was concluded and each had returned to his own heritage, Arawn discovered that Pwyll had denied himself the rights of a husband to Arawn's Lady. Thus Arawn swore a vow of friendship toward Pwyll.
Bran (raven, crow). Irish. A master of the Isle of Britain, he is a cauldron-God, associated with a cauldron of regeneration which would revive the slain while leaving them voiceless. His cauldron destroyed, and he mortally wounded in a war to rescue his sister Branwen, he instructed his adherents to decapitate him and, after many travels, bear the head to London and bury it, where it would become a defense and a protection to the whole Isle.
Cernunnos (horned one) Gaulish. The horned God associated with the Wild Hunt. A lord of the natural world, of animal and vegetive strength. See also, Gwynn and Herne.
Daghda (lord of skill). Irish. An important figure associated with a sacred well, and water in general. Also a fertility God. Various names and epithets of his seem to link him to horse-cults, fire, and knowledge. He is the father of many of the others, including Brigit, Mider, Aengus, Oghma, and Bodb Dearg. One who can be fooled, defeated, or bargained with by plying some idiosyncrasy or personal trait. His favored weapon is a giant club, or maul.
Dioncecht (swift ...).Irish. God closely associated with healing and mending of physical ills.
Goibhniu (smith).Irish. A God of smith craft, one of a trio (see also Credne and Luchta ). He is known as the provider of the Fled Goibnenn, a Sacred Feast. Associated, with brew crafting, he is said to have formulated a draught of immortality.
Gwynn ap Nudd. (Southern) Welsh. A Cthonic divinity, leader of the Wild Hunt, in chase of the White Stag. Closely paralleling the Gaulish Cernunnos and British Herne, he also has affiliations with the northern Welsh Arawn.
Hafgan.Welsh. A lord in Annwyn, and a mortal enemy of Arawn, he may only be slain if struck a single killing blow; to strike a mercy-blow to his mortally wounded body would be to revive him again. This is accomplished by Pwyll when he comes to Arawn's aid.
Lugh (light, brightness). Irish. Son of Cian, considered the Lord of the Tuatha De Danaan. His archetype derives from an early solar deity, and he has many epithets and sobriquets, among which: Long-arm, much-skilled, having many talents; seer; and boy-warrior.
Mabon (son, youth). Welsh. The God associated with youthfulness, he is sometimes conflated with Pryderi. His full name is "Mabon Ap Modron", which simply means "Son, son of Mother".
Manannan (Of the [Irish] sea). Irish. A Child of Lyr, the principal sea-God; his name derives from an earlier form of the Isle of Man. He possesses: the fabulous Crane-Bag, holder of all his treasures, including Language. As with many Sea-Gods, he has a close association with horses.
Oghma. Irish. A Child of the Daghda, a warrior God who is closely connected to knowledge, magick, and eloquence. The inventor of Ogham script; he is said to have designed the letters as a way of encoding knowledge- they were not granted to him by mystical vision.
Pwyll (wisdom, prudence). Welsh. Lord of Arberth. Father of Pryderi, Husband of Rhiannon, trusted associate of Arawn as related in the first book of the Mabinogi.
Taliesin (radiant-brow).Welsh. A semi-mythical figure whose life has become deeply intertwined with the Divinities of the Celts. He apparently lived in the 6th century CE, and was regarded as the premier poet of his or any other time. A book of his work exists from the 13th century; several of the works are regarded as genuine. He figures in many tales, Chiefly the story that he began as the boy Gwion, was asked by Cerridwen to watch the vessel in which she brewed a Knowledge potion, inadvertently tasted it himself, was pursued by her in a chase involving many shape-shifts, was swallowed by Her, to be reborn nine months later as the Divine bard.
Taran (thunder). Welsh/Continental. A war god.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Pantheon
Here most would post a summerized list of the Gods they would worship or include in spells and rituals.
Given my Pantheon is the most well known on the Web, being Celtic, I am just going to outline my Patron as an example.
Arawn. Welsh. Lord of Annwn, the underworld and realm of departed spirits. He makes a pact with Pwyll, to exchange places with him for one year, in order that Pwyll might defeat an enemy, King Hafgan. Though Arawn set no conditions upon the exchange, when the pact was concluded and each had returned to his own heritage, Arawn discovered that Pwyll had denied himself the rights of a husband to Arawn's Lady. Thus Arawn swore a vow of friendship toward Pwyll.
For Related Myths see Mabinogion.
As the names of the Gods can be ambiguous, I keep them sepparate from the Goddesses.
Given my Pantheon is the most well known on the Web, being Celtic, I am just going to outline my Patron as an example.
Arawn. Welsh. Lord of Annwn, the underworld and realm of departed spirits. He makes a pact with Pwyll, to exchange places with him for one year, in order that Pwyll might defeat an enemy, King Hafgan. Though Arawn set no conditions upon the exchange, when the pact was concluded and each had returned to his own heritage, Arawn discovered that Pwyll had denied himself the rights of a husband to Arawn's Lady. Thus Arawn swore a vow of friendship toward Pwyll.
For Related Myths see Mabinogion.
As the names of the Gods can be ambiguous, I keep them sepparate from the Goddesses.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
A Patron....
A patron god is a particular deity we feel an affinity for that we choose to honor as the main influence in our lives. Many Pagans believe that all gods and goddesses are representations of the one life force. Others believe that each deity is a god in their own right. Regardless of which philosophy you ascribe to, having a patron deity can be a powerful way to interact with the divine in ourselves and creation.
I have heard many Pagans say that they did not choose their patron. Instead, they were chosen by their patron and sometimes this choosing wasn't in the most pleasant of circumstances. Even the most self-assured Pagan can be a bit of a skeptic when it comes to a personal relationship with the divine, and it takes a hard thump on the head to get our attention. Of course, this isn't always the case, and the gods can enter our lives as gently as a summer breeze.
Aspects of the gods can be what initially draws us to them. If you are a writer and follow a Celtic path, then maybe the goddess Brigid, a goddess of poetry and inspiration, will be who you feel most attracted to. If you are a soldier and follow a Greek path, then Ares, the fierce warrior god is who you feel is your protector and patron. Once you attune to your patron though you will find that there are many aspects to their character and personality that you had not known of before.
I don't see why everyone needs to have one. Patronage is a lifelong affair. It's like having someone looking over your shoulder all the time. Your life tends to change with their will as well. It's not always so nice and pretty. In many aspects it can and will lend you power, however, they will also be very vocal with you in their disapproval as well.
To date the closest bond I have with any male deity is with Annwn, the God of Death/the Underworld from Welsh Mythology, I can feel his presence when others might not be felt so strong.
One might take this part of a Book of Shadows to write about their Patron deity why they have learned and rituals in that deities honor, personally I keep my Rituals in the Index or rear of my BoS.
I have heard many Pagans say that they did not choose their patron. Instead, they were chosen by their patron and sometimes this choosing wasn't in the most pleasant of circumstances. Even the most self-assured Pagan can be a bit of a skeptic when it comes to a personal relationship with the divine, and it takes a hard thump on the head to get our attention. Of course, this isn't always the case, and the gods can enter our lives as gently as a summer breeze.
Aspects of the gods can be what initially draws us to them. If you are a writer and follow a Celtic path, then maybe the goddess Brigid, a goddess of poetry and inspiration, will be who you feel most attracted to. If you are a soldier and follow a Greek path, then Ares, the fierce warrior god is who you feel is your protector and patron. Once you attune to your patron though you will find that there are many aspects to their character and personality that you had not known of before.
I don't see why everyone needs to have one. Patronage is a lifelong affair. It's like having someone looking over your shoulder all the time. Your life tends to change with their will as well. It's not always so nice and pretty. In many aspects it can and will lend you power, however, they will also be very vocal with you in their disapproval as well.
To date the closest bond I have with any male deity is with Annwn, the God of Death/the Underworld from Welsh Mythology, I can feel his presence when others might not be felt so strong.
One might take this part of a Book of Shadows to write about their Patron deity why they have learned and rituals in that deities honor, personally I keep my Rituals in the Index or rear of my BoS.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
A Charge of the God: Author Unknown
Listen to the words of the Horned God,
The Guardian of all things wild and free, and
Keeper of the Gates of Death, whose Call all must answer:
"I am the fire within your heart...
"I am the fire within your heart...
The yearning of your Soul. I am the
Hunter of Knowledge and the Seeker of the Holy Quest;
I who stand in the darkness of light;
I am He whom you have called Death.
I am the Consort and Mate of Her we adore, call forth to me.
Heed my call beloved ones,
Heed my call beloved ones,
Come unto me and learn the secrets of death and peace.
I am the corn at harvest and the fruit on the trees.
I am He who leads you home.
Scourge and Flame, Blade and Blood these are mine and gifts to thee.
Call unto me in the forest wild and on hilltop bare and seek me in the
Call unto me in the forest wild and on hilltop bare and seek me in the
Darkness Bright. I who have been called;
Pan, Herne, Osiris , and Hades, speak to thee in thy search.
Come dance and sing; come live and smile, for behold: this is my worship.
You are my children and I am thy Father.
You are my children and I am thy Father.
On swift night wings it is I who lay you at the
Mother's feet to be reborn and to return again.
Thou who thinks to seek me, know that
Thou who thinks to seek me, know that
I am the untamed wind, the fury of storm and passion in your
Soul. Seek me with pride and humility,
But seek me best with love and strength.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
A Triplicity God?
The earliest Celt’s worshipped a triple goddess with a pair of gods who represented the light and dark or the waxing and waning suns. I recognize a triple god as well as a triple goddess, each to represent the young, mature, and elderly aspects of the ancient Horned God and Great Goddess.
Youths offer energy, creativity, inspiration, and passionate motivation. With a priceless habit of questioning everything to see if it is still valid or the best possible option. Young people still have a delightful sense of wonder that we could all do with a bit more of. They also have less patriarchal attitudes and logical disbelief. The younger a child is, the more unlimited their magical potential, because they haven't yet learned what impossible means.
Mature adults have reached the peak of their power and abilities where they balance strength, energy, and endurance with knowledge, wisdom, and experience. They have sufficient wisdom and experience to lead well, if they stay open to advice and ideas from others, yet still have enough imagination, ambition, energy, and clarity of mind to meet the obligations of leadership.
The elderly may well be our most precious resource. It is unfortunate that modern societies undervalue the importance and power of their knowledge, wisdom, and experience. There's a common saying among young adults that the older they get, the smarter their parents seem to be. Although it may be more difficult for our elders to relate to our problems and interests, it's impossible for them to live very long without learning very useful and practical information.
Youth, Hunter and Sage.
Youths offer energy, creativity, inspiration, and passionate motivation. With a priceless habit of questioning everything to see if it is still valid or the best possible option. Young people still have a delightful sense of wonder that we could all do with a bit more of. They also have less patriarchal attitudes and logical disbelief. The younger a child is, the more unlimited their magical potential, because they haven't yet learned what impossible means.
Mature adults have reached the peak of their power and abilities where they balance strength, energy, and endurance with knowledge, wisdom, and experience. They have sufficient wisdom and experience to lead well, if they stay open to advice and ideas from others, yet still have enough imagination, ambition, energy, and clarity of mind to meet the obligations of leadership.
The elderly may well be our most precious resource. It is unfortunate that modern societies undervalue the importance and power of their knowledge, wisdom, and experience. There's a common saying among young adults that the older they get, the smarter their parents seem to be. Although it may be more difficult for our elders to relate to our problems and interests, it's impossible for them to live very long without learning very useful and practical information.
Youth, Hunter and Sage.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
The God
In witchcraft, where emphasis is placed on the Goddess, the Horned God, or Cernunnos, is equally important. He contributes the male role or part in the male-female polarity. Worshipped and personified by the high priest just as the Goddess is personified by the high priestess.
The Horned God represents sexuality, vitality, the hunt, logic and power. But, he does not exploit his attributes nor will he let them be exploited. He is considered to be gentle, tender and compassionate in a masculine manner.
The Horned God, the most "male" in the conventional sense, of the Goddess’ projections, is the eternal Hunter, and also the animal which is hunted. He is the beast who is sacrificed that human life may go on, as well as the one who sheds blood. He is also seen as the sun, eternally hunting the moon across the sky. The waxing and waning of the sun throughout the seasons manifest the cycle of birth and death, creation and dissolution, separation and return.
The horns of the Horned God represent his domain over the woodlands, and his association with the bull and ram, the animal consorts of the Goddess. His horns also symbolize the crescent moon, the symbol of the Goddess, and represents the increase in all things and waxing fertility. In art, the Horned God, or Cernunnos, is represented as half man and half animal. This possibly represents the natural union between man and nature.
The High Priest also personifies the Horned God in the performance of two of his duties as the guardian and keeper of the coven. Performing these duties allow the high priestess to carry out the spiritual work of the coven.
The Horned God represents sexuality, vitality, the hunt, logic and power. But, he does not exploit his attributes nor will he let them be exploited. He is considered to be gentle, tender and compassionate in a masculine manner.
The Horned God, the most "male" in the conventional sense, of the Goddess’ projections, is the eternal Hunter, and also the animal which is hunted. He is the beast who is sacrificed that human life may go on, as well as the one who sheds blood. He is also seen as the sun, eternally hunting the moon across the sky. The waxing and waning of the sun throughout the seasons manifest the cycle of birth and death, creation and dissolution, separation and return.
The horns of the Horned God represent his domain over the woodlands, and his association with the bull and ram, the animal consorts of the Goddess. His horns also symbolize the crescent moon, the symbol of the Goddess, and represents the increase in all things and waxing fertility. In art, the Horned God, or Cernunnos, is represented as half man and half animal. This possibly represents the natural union between man and nature.
The High Priest also personifies the Horned God in the performance of two of his duties as the guardian and keeper of the coven. Performing these duties allow the high priestess to carry out the spiritual work of the coven.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Deity
At this point we would begin a highlite section on the God and Goddess. Now ones concept of Deity is very personal and over the past millenia has caused inumerable wars and conflict, even today the topic can cause arguments among those of the same faith.
In my personal belief I try to find a balance or the balancing factor for everything so I find it difficult to view the Goddess as a triplicity and the God as a duallity. It just feels short sighted.
Since the Divine, in essence, is all around and within us, seeing the different faces of the God and Goddess is very similar to the different faces we ourselves present to the world. Child, Sibling, Friend, Lover, Boss, Worker, Priest or Priestess, Counselor or Parent…
All of these faces are true, depending on what is needed or called for at the time. So why should the pure essence of the Divine be any different?
In my personal belief I try to find a balance or the balancing factor for everything so I find it difficult to view the Goddess as a triplicity and the God as a duallity. It just feels short sighted.
Since the Divine, in essence, is all around and within us, seeing the different faces of the God and Goddess is very similar to the different faces we ourselves present to the world. Child, Sibling, Friend, Lover, Boss, Worker, Priest or Priestess, Counselor or Parent…
All of these faces are true, depending on what is needed or called for at the time. So why should the pure essence of the Divine be any different?
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Accountability
The Law of accountability is based on the belief that any energy put out into the divine universe will return to the sender three times. Ancient beliefs state the senders mind, body and spirit, (thus the threefold concept) is accountable for all actions. In actuality, this isn't really a law of return as much as it is a law of accountability. You are responsible for all your actions not just the results of those actions. So theoretically you are accountable at the time the action is created.
The 9-Fold law (also called the 3x3x3 law where x=by) concept is the same, however, the return is a little different. In these traditions, the essence of the mind holds within itself the energy of mind, body and spirit. The essence of the body holds within itself the energy of it's own mind body and spirit. And so for the essence of the spirit.
The most important lesson you can learn is how to live in respect and balance with yourself, nature, those around you and the divine universe in general. I used to think that meant learning and living with unconditional love. But too often, we think unconditional love means being a door stop for someone to step on. That isn't exactly living in balance. You're part human, with human emotions. To deny the physical side of yourself and concentrating solely on the spiritual; isn't living in balance either.
So why is 'respect' and 'balance' so important. Simple, these are the two components that allow you to experience the lessons you came to this incarnation to learn. Without learning spiritual lessons, redeeming or collecting karma, working on your own enlightenment, how can you, or anyone advance their soul and accomplish your mission here?
Now if you have a right to experience the lessons you chose to learn, then so does everyone else. And you do not have the right to interfere with their lessons or choices that might (or even might not) advance their souls potential.
Blessed Be;
Echo
The 9-Fold law (also called the 3x3x3 law where x=by) concept is the same, however, the return is a little different. In these traditions, the essence of the mind holds within itself the energy of mind, body and spirit. The essence of the body holds within itself the energy of it's own mind body and spirit. And so for the essence of the spirit.
The most important lesson you can learn is how to live in respect and balance with yourself, nature, those around you and the divine universe in general. I used to think that meant learning and living with unconditional love. But too often, we think unconditional love means being a door stop for someone to step on. That isn't exactly living in balance. You're part human, with human emotions. To deny the physical side of yourself and concentrating solely on the spiritual; isn't living in balance either.
So why is 'respect' and 'balance' so important. Simple, these are the two components that allow you to experience the lessons you came to this incarnation to learn. Without learning spiritual lessons, redeeming or collecting karma, working on your own enlightenment, how can you, or anyone advance their soul and accomplish your mission here?
Now if you have a right to experience the lessons you chose to learn, then so does everyone else. And you do not have the right to interfere with their lessons or choices that might (or even might not) advance their souls potential.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Law of Power:
Laws in religion are like laws in science, generally accepted and well known for long length of time and by many people long before they are ever published. The following is The Law of Power, a series of rules followed by those of us that are both in the public and offering our services and council to others either new to the Craft or just in need of help.
1. The Power shall not be used to bring harm, to injure or control others. But if the need rises, the Power shall be used to protect your life or the lives of others.
(We don't cast a spell with the intent to do harm, on behalf of someone else, those dirty deeds are best left to the person who wants them done, and not involving others. No Love Spells or Hexes.)
2. The Power is used only as need dictates.
(Protection, Healing, Cleansing, Banishing, Divination. Charms or talismans and Prosperity spells are a grey area entirely dependant on circumstances.)
3. The Power can be used for your own gain, as long as by doing so you harm none.
(Prosperity or Money Magick to increase flow of money or banish dept.)
4. It is unwise to accept money for use of the Power, for it quickly controls its taker. Be not as those of other religions.
(If someone come to you for help, then help them. If something is needed that you do not have ask them to supply it. DO NOT do spellwork in exchange to money.)
5. Use not the Power for pride full gain, for such cheapens the mysteries of Wicca and magick.
(There is a need for shared knowledge, You are not a Messiah. The best any teacher can hope for is to put a student on the right path so they can learn on their own.)
6. Ever remember that the Power is the sacred gift of the Goddess and God, and should never be misused or abused.
(Be careful, greatful and true to yourself and your beliefs.)
7. And this is the Law of Power.
1. The Power shall not be used to bring harm, to injure or control others. But if the need rises, the Power shall be used to protect your life or the lives of others.
(We don't cast a spell with the intent to do harm, on behalf of someone else, those dirty deeds are best left to the person who wants them done, and not involving others. No Love Spells or Hexes.)
2. The Power is used only as need dictates.
(Protection, Healing, Cleansing, Banishing, Divination. Charms or talismans and Prosperity spells are a grey area entirely dependant on circumstances.)
3. The Power can be used for your own gain, as long as by doing so you harm none.
(Prosperity or Money Magick to increase flow of money or banish dept.)
4. It is unwise to accept money for use of the Power, for it quickly controls its taker. Be not as those of other religions.
(If someone come to you for help, then help them. If something is needed that you do not have ask them to supply it. DO NOT do spellwork in exchange to money.)
5. Use not the Power for pride full gain, for such cheapens the mysteries of Wicca and magick.
(There is a need for shared knowledge, You are not a Messiah. The best any teacher can hope for is to put a student on the right path so they can learn on their own.)
6. Ever remember that the Power is the sacred gift of the Goddess and God, and should never be misused or abused.
(Be careful, greatful and true to yourself and your beliefs.)
7. And this is the Law of Power.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Charity: Not just for Good Christians.
Charities can help you address important issues in your family, community and world. They often have dedicated people with specialized know-how. Making a contribution as a volunteer or donor can be very satisfying too. It’s great to know you’re making a difference in people's lives.
Our ability to give back and build positive Karma is often limited, by time, money, skill, or all of the above. However, that doesn’t cripple you. You can choose from a range of challenges including the environment, civil rights, disaster relief, education, and poverty. Donating five dollars to the children’s hospital, crocheting a blanket for the homeless, giving a teddy bear to the Police Department. It might not sound like much, but it could mean the world to the person you’re helping.
And in the eyes of the Lord and Lady. That is all that matters.
So give. What you can, when you can and remember the Rule of Three.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Our ability to give back and build positive Karma is often limited, by time, money, skill, or all of the above. However, that doesn’t cripple you. You can choose from a range of challenges including the environment, civil rights, disaster relief, education, and poverty. Donating five dollars to the children’s hospital, crocheting a blanket for the homeless, giving a teddy bear to the Police Department. It might not sound like much, but it could mean the world to the person you’re helping.
And in the eyes of the Lord and Lady. That is all that matters.
So give. What you can, when you can and remember the Rule of Three.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Chivalry: Codes of Honor in the Craft
Chivalry is a high code of honor which is of most ancient Pagan origin, and must be lived by all who follow the Old Ways. It must be kenned that thoughts and intent put forth on this middle-Earth will wax strong in otherworld’s beyond, and return...bringing into creation, on this world, that which had been sent forth. It is only by preparing our minds to be as Gods that we can ultimately attain godhead.
As was said by Shakespear: "This above all...to thine own self be true..." A Witch's word must have the validity of a signed and witness oath. Thus, give thy word sparingly, but adhere to it like iron.
Refrain from speaking ill of others, for not all truths of the matter may be known. Pass not unverified words about another, for here-say is, in a large part, a thing of falsehoods. The fury of the moment plays folly with the truth; to keep one's head is a virtue.
Contemplate always the consequences of thine acts upon others. Strive not to harm. Diverse covens may well have diverse news on love between members and with others. When a coven, clan or grove is visited or joined, one should discern quietly their practices, and abide thereby. Dignity, a gracious manner, and a good humor are much to be admired. As a Witch, you have power, and your powers wax strongly as wisdom increases. Therefore exercise discretion in the use thereof.
Courage and honor endure forever. Their echoes remain when the mountains have crumbled to dust. Pledge friendship and fealty to those who so warrant. Strengthen others of the Brethren and they shall strengthen you. Never reveal secrets of another Witch or another coven. Others have labored long and hard for them and cherish them as treasures. Though there may be differences between those of the Old Ways, those who are once-born must see nothing, and must hear nothing.
Those who follow the mysteries should be above reproach in the eyes of the world. The laws of the land should be obeyed whenever possible and within reason, for in the main they have been chosen with wisdom. Have pride in thyself, and seek perfection in body and in mind. For the Lady has said, "How can thou honor another unless thou give honor to thyself first?" Those who seek the mysteries should consider themselves as select of the Gods, for it is they who lead the race of humans to the highest of thrones and beyond the very stars...
As we are of a faith that is not generally looked well on by those of other faiths we must be prepared for attacks and thus should hold ourselves to higher standard, be prepared to take a step back before you act.
Blessed Be;
Echo
As was said by Shakespear: "This above all...to thine own self be true..." A Witch's word must have the validity of a signed and witness oath. Thus, give thy word sparingly, but adhere to it like iron.
Refrain from speaking ill of others, for not all truths of the matter may be known. Pass not unverified words about another, for here-say is, in a large part, a thing of falsehoods. The fury of the moment plays folly with the truth; to keep one's head is a virtue.
Contemplate always the consequences of thine acts upon others. Strive not to harm. Diverse covens may well have diverse news on love between members and with others. When a coven, clan or grove is visited or joined, one should discern quietly their practices, and abide thereby. Dignity, a gracious manner, and a good humor are much to be admired. As a Witch, you have power, and your powers wax strongly as wisdom increases. Therefore exercise discretion in the use thereof.
Courage and honor endure forever. Their echoes remain when the mountains have crumbled to dust. Pledge friendship and fealty to those who so warrant. Strengthen others of the Brethren and they shall strengthen you. Never reveal secrets of another Witch or another coven. Others have labored long and hard for them and cherish them as treasures. Though there may be differences between those of the Old Ways, those who are once-born must see nothing, and must hear nothing.
Those who follow the mysteries should be above reproach in the eyes of the world. The laws of the land should be obeyed whenever possible and within reason, for in the main they have been chosen with wisdom. Have pride in thyself, and seek perfection in body and in mind. For the Lady has said, "How can thou honor another unless thou give honor to thyself first?" Those who seek the mysteries should consider themselves as select of the Gods, for it is they who lead the race of humans to the highest of thrones and beyond the very stars...
As we are of a faith that is not generally looked well on by those of other faiths we must be prepared for attacks and thus should hold ourselves to higher standard, be prepared to take a step back before you act.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Wiccan Rede: Full Poetic Version (No BoS is complete without it)
The Wiccan Rede
Poem Origin Unknown
(The Full of the Rede is simply “An ye Harm None, Do as Thou wilt.”)
Bide ye the Wiccan laws ye must, In perfect love and perfect trust.
Ye must live and let live, fairly take and fairly give.
Cast the Circle thrice about,
to keep unwelcome spirits out.
To bind the spell well every time,
let the spell be spoke in rhyme.
Soft of eye and light of touch, speak ye little and listen much.
Deosil go by waxing moon, chanting out the Wiccan runes.
Widdershins go by waning moon,
chanting out the baneful tune.
When the Lady's moon is new,
kiss the hand to Her times two.
When the moon rides at Her peak, then the heart's desire seek.
Heed toe North wind's mighty gale: lock the door and trim the sail.
When the wind comes from the South,
love will kiss thee on the mouth.
When the moor blows from the West,
departed spirits have no rest.
When the wind blows from the East, expect the new and set 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 has turned to Yule, light the log and the Horned One rule.
Heed ye flower, bush and tree, by the Lady, Blessed Be.
Where the rippling waters go,
cast a stone, the truth to know.
When ye have and hold a need,
hearken not to other's greed.
With a fool no seasons spend, or be counted as his friend.
Merry Meet and Merry Part, bright the cheeks and warm the heart.
Mind the Threefold Law ye should,
three times bad and three times good.
When misfortune is enow,
wear the blue star on thy brow.
True in love ye must ever be, lest they love be false to thee.
These words the Wiccan Rede fulfill: As ye harm none, Do as ye will.
Poem Origin Unknown
(The Full of the Rede is simply “An ye Harm None, Do as Thou wilt.”)
Bide ye the Wiccan laws ye must, In perfect love and perfect trust.
Ye must live and let live, fairly take and fairly give.
Cast the Circle thrice about,
to keep unwelcome spirits out.
To bind the spell well every time,
let the spell be spoke in rhyme.
Soft of eye and light of touch, speak ye little and listen much.
Deosil go by waxing moon, chanting out the Wiccan runes.
Widdershins go by waning moon,
chanting out the baneful tune.
When the Lady's moon is new,
kiss the hand to Her times two.
When the moon rides at Her peak, then the heart's desire seek.
Heed toe North wind's mighty gale: lock the door and trim the sail.
When the wind comes from the South,
love will kiss thee on the mouth.
When the moor blows from the West,
departed spirits have no rest.
When the wind blows from the East, expect the new and set 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 has turned to Yule, light the log and the Horned One rule.
Heed ye flower, bush and tree, by the Lady, Blessed Be.
Where the rippling waters go,
cast a stone, the truth to know.
When ye have and hold a need,
hearken not to other's greed.
With a fool no seasons spend, or be counted as his friend.
Merry Meet and Merry Part, bright the cheeks and warm the heart.
Mind the Threefold Law ye should,
three times bad and three times good.
When misfortune is enow,
wear the blue star on thy brow.
True in love ye must ever be, lest they love be false to thee.
These words the Wiccan Rede fulfill: As ye harm none, Do as ye will.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Dogma?
Sometimes, dogmas are not necessarily doctrines that have always been with the religion, but are created, as needed, to control those who are followers and sometimes to enforce those beliefs on those who are not. Dogmas are often not even in their religious books, but an idea written about that becomes Truth or sometimes certain dogmas can even be a congregation by congregation phenomenon.
I have seen it mentioned by many Pagans that there are no Pagan dogmas. But that is not true. Some common Pagan dogmas are “an it harm none, do what you will”, the belief in multiple gods, and the sacred nature of, well, nature. I think it is harmful for Pagans to say there are no Pagan dogmas because it implies that they have no concrete beliefs, which certainly is not true. For those who don’t agree with me about this issue, look at the definition of dogma:
1. Religious belief: a belief or set of beliefs that a religion holds to be true
2. Group belief: a belief or set of beliefs that a group holds as true.
There are many accepted laws of power, reed’s and creed’s that are taught readily to those new to Paganism, most written poetically with a lot of thee’s and thou’s. Reflective of manuscripts from an earlier era and other sacred texts, like the Bible, Qur’an, Book of Mormon or any other collection of scriptures. When the fact is any and or all of them are simply restating the same philosophy.
Its Not Okay to Hurt another Living Thing, or force your will on someone else.
As long as you follow that understanding, any and all other people, religions or institutions shouldn’t have a problem with you. But all religions are followed by an antithesis and any religious practitioner no matter their religion can fall victim to Hate.
Hate is the single most detestable and destructive emotion in creation, remember and be weary when voicing you’re beliefs choose your words wisely and do not ever give your beliefs a name until you are certain that those with whom you converse are of like mind.
Always remember that Hate can fuel great people to do terrible things, Hitler attempted genocide and ethnocide during WWII, it has been attempted at various levels since in Kosovo or September 11th, 2001, and many times before with the Friday the 13th massacre of the Knights Templar and the Crusades.
So while the skies are clear for us at the moment, the tides may shift, and the storm may rise. Think twice before sharing what you believe and again harder if you are betraying a family or coven to those who might not understand.
Sometimes its safer to keep a secret.
Or a Skeleton in the Closet.
I have seen it mentioned by many Pagans that there are no Pagan dogmas. But that is not true. Some common Pagan dogmas are “an it harm none, do what you will”, the belief in multiple gods, and the sacred nature of, well, nature. I think it is harmful for Pagans to say there are no Pagan dogmas because it implies that they have no concrete beliefs, which certainly is not true. For those who don’t agree with me about this issue, look at the definition of dogma:
1. Religious belief: a belief or set of beliefs that a religion holds to be true
2. Group belief: a belief or set of beliefs that a group holds as true.
There are many accepted laws of power, reed’s and creed’s that are taught readily to those new to Paganism, most written poetically with a lot of thee’s and thou’s. Reflective of manuscripts from an earlier era and other sacred texts, like the Bible, Qur’an, Book of Mormon or any other collection of scriptures. When the fact is any and or all of them are simply restating the same philosophy.
Its Not Okay to Hurt another Living Thing, or force your will on someone else.
As long as you follow that understanding, any and all other people, religions or institutions shouldn’t have a problem with you. But all religions are followed by an antithesis and any religious practitioner no matter their religion can fall victim to Hate.
Hate is the single most detestable and destructive emotion in creation, remember and be weary when voicing you’re beliefs choose your words wisely and do not ever give your beliefs a name until you are certain that those with whom you converse are of like mind.
Always remember that Hate can fuel great people to do terrible things, Hitler attempted genocide and ethnocide during WWII, it has been attempted at various levels since in Kosovo or September 11th, 2001, and many times before with the Friday the 13th massacre of the Knights Templar and the Crusades.
So while the skies are clear for us at the moment, the tides may shift, and the storm may rise. Think twice before sharing what you believe and again harder if you are betraying a family or coven to those who might not understand.
Sometimes its safer to keep a secret.
Or a Skeleton in the Closet.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Articles of Beleif....
I have heard it said that the Craft is probably more misrepresented and mis understood than any other religion. And to some degree thats true, the movie media of years gone by is to blame. Witches have often been depicted as mean, hateful,evil people who worshipped the devil, ran amuck, and wreaked untold havoc in peoples lives. Of course, nothing could be farther from the truth.
But the same could be said about the Catholic Church. Demonized heavily by the media since the eighties because of a handful of perverts that thought church made a great hiding space. Priest and Pervert have become as synonymous as Witch and Evil.
As with many other faiths we have our share of zealots, perverts and psychos, this is a naturally occuring fact in every walk of life, and like other religions we do not condone that behavior.
The way people think however, always comes back to the adage: "One bad Apple spoils the bushel."
In 1974, the Council of American Witches decided to do something about this dramatic assumption. The following principles were adopted by them to define the Craft and help its members to live more easily within societal measures. These principles still shape and guide our lives today. Regrettably the group disbanded shortly after it's adoption.
1. We prctice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rythm of life forces marked by the Phases of the Moon and Seasonal Quarters and Cross-Quarters.
2. We recognize that our intelligence gives ua a unique responsibility toward our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfillment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.
3. We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than is apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary, it is sometimes called "supernatural" but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potiential to all.
4. We conceive of the Creative Power in the Universe as manifesting through polarity, as masculine and feminine, and that this Creative Power lives in all people and functions through the interaction of the masculine and feminine. We value neither aboce the other, knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value sex as pleasure, as the symbol and embodiment of life, and as one of the sources of energies used in magical practice and religious worship.
5. We recognize both outer worlds and inner, or psychological worlds-sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the Collective Unconscious, the Inner Planes, and so on-and we see in the interaction of these two dimensions the basis for paranormal phenomena and magical exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfillment.
6. We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy, but do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given of themselves in leadership.
7. We see religion, magic, and wisdom-in-living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it- a worldview and philosophy-of-life that we identify as Witchcraft, the Wiccan Way.
8. Calling oneself "witch" does not make a witch-but neither does heredity itself, or the collecting of titles, degrees, and initiations. Witches seek to control the forces within themselves that make life possible in order to live wisely and well, without harm to others, and in harmony with Nature.
9. We acknowledge that it is the affirmation and fulfillment of life, in a continuation of evolution and development of consciuosness, that gives meaning to the Universe we know, and to our personal role within it.
10. Our only animosity toward Christianity, or toward any other religion or philosophy-of-life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be "the only way" and have sought to deny freedom to others and to supress other ways of religious practice and belief.
11. As American Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present, and our future.
12. We do not accept the concept of "absolute evil" nor do we worship any entity known as "satan" or "the devil" as defined by the Christian Tradition. We do not seek power through the suffering of others, nor do we accept the concept that personal benefit can be only derived by denial to another.
13. We acknowledge that we seek within Nature for that which is contributory to our health and well being.
But the same could be said about the Catholic Church. Demonized heavily by the media since the eighties because of a handful of perverts that thought church made a great hiding space. Priest and Pervert have become as synonymous as Witch and Evil.
As with many other faiths we have our share of zealots, perverts and psychos, this is a naturally occuring fact in every walk of life, and like other religions we do not condone that behavior.
The way people think however, always comes back to the adage: "One bad Apple spoils the bushel."
In 1974, the Council of American Witches decided to do something about this dramatic assumption. The following principles were adopted by them to define the Craft and help its members to live more easily within societal measures. These principles still shape and guide our lives today. Regrettably the group disbanded shortly after it's adoption.
1. We prctice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rythm of life forces marked by the Phases of the Moon and Seasonal Quarters and Cross-Quarters.
2. We recognize that our intelligence gives ua a unique responsibility toward our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfillment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.
3. We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than is apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary, it is sometimes called "supernatural" but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potiential to all.
4. We conceive of the Creative Power in the Universe as manifesting through polarity, as masculine and feminine, and that this Creative Power lives in all people and functions through the interaction of the masculine and feminine. We value neither aboce the other, knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value sex as pleasure, as the symbol and embodiment of life, and as one of the sources of energies used in magical practice and religious worship.
5. We recognize both outer worlds and inner, or psychological worlds-sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the Collective Unconscious, the Inner Planes, and so on-and we see in the interaction of these two dimensions the basis for paranormal phenomena and magical exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfillment.
6. We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy, but do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given of themselves in leadership.
7. We see religion, magic, and wisdom-in-living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it- a worldview and philosophy-of-life that we identify as Witchcraft, the Wiccan Way.
8. Calling oneself "witch" does not make a witch-but neither does heredity itself, or the collecting of titles, degrees, and initiations. Witches seek to control the forces within themselves that make life possible in order to live wisely and well, without harm to others, and in harmony with Nature.
9. We acknowledge that it is the affirmation and fulfillment of life, in a continuation of evolution and development of consciuosness, that gives meaning to the Universe we know, and to our personal role within it.
10. Our only animosity toward Christianity, or toward any other religion or philosophy-of-life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be "the only way" and have sought to deny freedom to others and to supress other ways of religious practice and belief.
11. As American Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present, and our future.
12. We do not accept the concept of "absolute evil" nor do we worship any entity known as "satan" or "the devil" as defined by the Christian Tradition. We do not seek power through the suffering of others, nor do we accept the concept that personal benefit can be only derived by denial to another.
13. We acknowledge that we seek within Nature for that which is contributory to our health and well being.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Us Vs, Them....
As so many sources feel the need to tout an “Us vs. Them” theological rhetoric, and I am well aware of what I don’t believe in, I feel the real importance is in emphasizing what I do believe. Wicca is a Neo-Pagan religion based on a deep respect for nature and the certain knowledge that we do not have the right to exploit it for our own gain. Believing that all objects possess a spirit which forms part of the Whole.
The practice of magick is real. It is important to note that magic is natural. There is nothing supernatural about it. We use certain tools such as spells, visualization, chants, candles, amulets and meditation to help us focus our power, but the power comes from within -- it is not in the tools. Our ancestors knew how to use it effectively, but it is a largely forgotten art in modern times.
A celebration of the life-forces of nature as personified by the Goddess and the God. Wicca may includes the practice of magick which is defined as the process of causing change through the focusing of our natural powers. Our ancestors knew how to use it effectively, but it is a largely forgotten art in modern times.
Wicca is a positive journey to enlightenment through Goddess worship and the mystical art of magick. Unlike many other religions, Wicca does not claim to be the one and only "religion" for everybody, nor does it campaign against other beliefs. Wicca encourages free thought, creativity, individuality, personal, spiritual and psychic growth. It is a celebration of the cycles and seasons of the earth and life and believe in living in harmony with all living things.
Blessed Be;
Echo
The practice of magick is real. It is important to note that magic is natural. There is nothing supernatural about it. We use certain tools such as spells, visualization, chants, candles, amulets and meditation to help us focus our power, but the power comes from within -- it is not in the tools. Our ancestors knew how to use it effectively, but it is a largely forgotten art in modern times.
A celebration of the life-forces of nature as personified by the Goddess and the God. Wicca may includes the practice of magick which is defined as the process of causing change through the focusing of our natural powers. Our ancestors knew how to use it effectively, but it is a largely forgotten art in modern times.
Wicca is a positive journey to enlightenment through Goddess worship and the mystical art of magick. Unlike many other religions, Wicca does not claim to be the one and only "religion" for everybody, nor does it campaign against other beliefs. Wicca encourages free thought, creativity, individuality, personal, spiritual and psychic growth. It is a celebration of the cycles and seasons of the earth and life and believe in living in harmony with all living things.
Blessed Be;
Echo
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Wicca?
I hate calling myself Wiccan. It is generally far too soft a term to describe my beleifs. However, my Father does think of himself as Wiccan and Wiccan principals helped shape me into the person I am, so it is that history that has me documenting Wicca in my BoS.
The concept of a supreme evil spirit is alien to Wicca. The devil is a Judeo-Christian construct and has nothing to do with Wicca. The notion that witches worship Satan was propounded by the Roman Catholic Church as it made its way across Europe, in an effort to suppress the native earth-based religions prevalent at the time.
They succeeded to the extent that they drove the practitioners of these religions underground where much of their knowledge and traditions were lost. Through the work of the Golden Dawn, as well as anthropological and archeological research, many of these traditions have been rediscovered and incorporated into Neo-Paganism, an umbrella term for most modern earth-based and shamanistic religions.
Wicca is believed to start from an ancient religion called Shamanism. The Shamans were medicine people, the power wielders, male and female. They wrought magick and spoke to the spirits of Nature. From these primitive beginnings arose all magick and religion including Wicca. Though refined and changed for our world, Wicca still touches our souls and causes ecstasy--awareness shifts--uniting us with Deity. Many of the teachings of Wicca are Shamanic in origin.
Modern Wicca began in England in 1939, when Gerald Gardner was initiated into a traditional British coven by Dorothy Clutterbuck (Old Dorothy). He later broke the coven's seal of secrecy and published books about the beliefs and practices of British Wiccans, because he feared the religion would die out. This began what continues to be a groundswell of people converting to Wicca.
Debate currently rages over whether Wicca is a new religion or the oldest of all religions. Some say that Wicca has been practiced continuously in Europe at least since the Ice Age. they cite Paleolithic carvings of female figures, such as the Venus of Willendorf, as evidence of Goddess worship having been the origin of all religions.
No; say others, Wicca is a neo-pagan faith, a 20th century construct.
The concept of a supreme evil spirit is alien to Wicca. The devil is a Judeo-Christian construct and has nothing to do with Wicca. The notion that witches worship Satan was propounded by the Roman Catholic Church as it made its way across Europe, in an effort to suppress the native earth-based religions prevalent at the time.
They succeeded to the extent that they drove the practitioners of these religions underground where much of their knowledge and traditions were lost. Through the work of the Golden Dawn, as well as anthropological and archeological research, many of these traditions have been rediscovered and incorporated into Neo-Paganism, an umbrella term for most modern earth-based and shamanistic religions.
Wicca is believed to start from an ancient religion called Shamanism. The Shamans were medicine people, the power wielders, male and female. They wrought magick and spoke to the spirits of Nature. From these primitive beginnings arose all magick and religion including Wicca. Though refined and changed for our world, Wicca still touches our souls and causes ecstasy--awareness shifts--uniting us with Deity. Many of the teachings of Wicca are Shamanic in origin.
Modern Wicca began in England in 1939, when Gerald Gardner was initiated into a traditional British coven by Dorothy Clutterbuck (Old Dorothy). He later broke the coven's seal of secrecy and published books about the beliefs and practices of British Wiccans, because he feared the religion would die out. This began what continues to be a groundswell of people converting to Wicca.
Debate currently rages over whether Wicca is a new religion or the oldest of all religions. Some say that Wicca has been practiced continuously in Europe at least since the Ice Age. they cite Paleolithic carvings of female figures, such as the Venus of Willendorf, as evidence of Goddess worship having been the origin of all religions.
No; say others, Wicca is a neo-pagan faith, a 20th century construct.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Defining a Pagan...
One of the main beliefs of Paganism is that the Earth is a living being and you shouldn’t take unless you offer something in return.
Most varieties of Paganism stresses is that there is cause and effect of all actions (3 fold rule).
This is not limited to spell casting, this means an awareness of the rules of nature. Some plants take over and choke others out, some plants enhance others when planted nearby. Certain trees won't grow without a companion. Learn the language of nature, you might not need to memorize everything, but know how things work together or against eachother.
Like every other religion to grace Earth, the path of Paganism has its rules and guidelines for every practitioner. It is no Rule for us to garb ourselves purely in black and meet in secret before ancient altars; with the intent of summoning the dark lord. In fact for the most part we don’t believe in the presence of a dark lord.
These structures are called laws, but are best understood as axioms or patterns of truth that influence the design of our lives. These laws are not dogmas or doctrines that set fixed rules. They are descriptions of natural energies, elemental threads that interweave and connect with everything we do or are. These natural laws reflect the elemental structures with which we craft our lives.
Most varieties of Paganism stresses is that there is cause and effect of all actions (3 fold rule).
This is not limited to spell casting, this means an awareness of the rules of nature. Some plants take over and choke others out, some plants enhance others when planted nearby. Certain trees won't grow without a companion. Learn the language of nature, you might not need to memorize everything, but know how things work together or against eachother.
Like every other religion to grace Earth, the path of Paganism has its rules and guidelines for every practitioner. It is no Rule for us to garb ourselves purely in black and meet in secret before ancient altars; with the intent of summoning the dark lord. In fact for the most part we don’t believe in the presence of a dark lord.
These structures are called laws, but are best understood as axioms or patterns of truth that influence the design of our lives. These laws are not dogmas or doctrines that set fixed rules. They are descriptions of natural energies, elemental threads that interweave and connect with everything we do or are. These natural laws reflect the elemental structures with which we craft our lives.
Defining Your Path...
Now this is questionable. On the one hand, this is a spiritual journal and you shouldn't have to explain yourself. On the other, as all people grow and change so will your path and your definition of that path.
All journals should mark your progress and growth.
So take a deep breath and tell us about yourself and your beleifs. Typically in years gone by it was normal to justify yourself by declaring yourself a Wiccan or Witch then explaining what a Witch is and is not.
By declaring what you are not you are saying that in being so, someone else would be less than you are, less worthy, less knowlageable, less correct. Now not everyone would adhere to that sentiment, but do me a favor.
Imagine you are at a party, in mixed company. And someone in the kitchen says "Oh no! I'm not a Witch."
Wouldn't your automatic response be one of discomfort? And maybe a little defensive, even to yourself, thinking "And what, Pray tell, is wrong with being a Witch?"
One key ideal with Witchcraft, Wicca or Paganism in the United States at least is that there is no "One True Path" no right and no wrong for "All Gods are but Faces of the One."
Think on it for a minute before you set pen to paper.
Blessed Be;
Echo
All journals should mark your progress and growth.
So take a deep breath and tell us about yourself and your beleifs. Typically in years gone by it was normal to justify yourself by declaring yourself a Wiccan or Witch then explaining what a Witch is and is not.
By declaring what you are not you are saying that in being so, someone else would be less than you are, less worthy, less knowlageable, less correct. Now not everyone would adhere to that sentiment, but do me a favor.
Imagine you are at a party, in mixed company. And someone in the kitchen says "Oh no! I'm not a Witch."
Wouldn't your automatic response be one of discomfort? And maybe a little defensive, even to yourself, thinking "And what, Pray tell, is wrong with being a Witch?"
One key ideal with Witchcraft, Wicca or Paganism in the United States at least is that there is no "One True Path" no right and no wrong for "All Gods are but Faces of the One."
Think on it for a minute before you set pen to paper.
Blessed Be;
Echo
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