tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38918908617256776432012-01-27T23:03:22.401-06:00An online Book of Shadows, Personal Essays and Commentary on Life as a Practicing Witch.Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.comBlogger741100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-62013303707286729142011-06-11T16:49:00.004-05:002011-06-12T20:30:27.956-05:00

I have been a member of the Iowa Organization of Witches and Neo-Pagans (IOWAN) for nearly 8 years now, and we meet in the Des Moines area. If you are looking for a long standing Pagan-friendly group (16 years!), then look us up. We hold Sabbat celebrations and meet once a month to take turns leading discussions about a wide range of Pagan topics and religions in the "other" column. The South

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-74577209022834323792010-12-12T18:20:00.004-06:002010-12-12T18:25:44.060-06:00

In my personal view, the most important tool for transformation (both physical and spiritual) would have to be the Cauldron. Physically, the cauldron is a vessel that holds the ingredients of your potions, stews and other concoctions with a purpose of healing, nourishing or transforming. I've used my cauldron to hold candles, mash up herbs, and divination through scrying. The cauldron represents

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-50166122244924678562010-11-29T13:23:00.002-06:002010-11-29T13:57:16.874-06:00

Magical charms can bring powerful, positive vibrations into your life. Most of us use charms without realizing their power. We "knock on wood" for luck, exchange wedding rings and wear the colors of our favorite team while watching a game. These actions originate from a time when everyone believed that the energy of the universe could be channeled into objects and symbols. This is known as "

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-39619562102024834442010-03-31T17:29:00.003-05:002010-03-31T20:54:16.799-05:00

Lavender has been an essential ingredient in spells and charms since ancient times. You can still use it today in your love, healing and purification magic.Lavender FolkloreIn ancient times, lavender had magical and healing associations. Known by the ancient Greeks as the "witches' herb," it was associated with the goddess Hecate, queen of enchantment. The Romans burned lavender over coals

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-91899468457528828012010-02-22T13:42:00.002-06:002010-02-22T13:44:42.801-06:00

House Resolution 397, recently introduced to Congress (May 2009), implies that the beliefs of our nation's founders were uniformly Christian, and that Christian beliefs are required for moral governance and societal cohesion.From the New York Times (Oct 2007): A Nation of Christians is NOT a Christian NationAn article of faith among many American evangelicals is “the Constitution established the

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-19313059744260319412010-01-14T10:05:00.004-06:002010-01-14T11:11:07.914-06:00

I've been gone for a long time from this blog, I know. Well, 2009 wasn't so kind to me, but I've changed a lot of bad things and moved to a new place, and got away from a negative vibe that was haunting me. So, on with the show.My focus lately has been on Gnostic teachings of the original Christians, the Nag Hammadi Texts, and a new interest in Astro-Theology. And I recently went back to one

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-79573923343196550612009-05-06T12:55:00.002-05:002009-05-06T13:13:13.727-05:00

Spell Casting is a safe and simple way to improve a situation by using your wishes to harmonize natural energies.A spell is the combination of words and objects used to focus magical energy and direct it into ensuring the desired result. Casting spells can help you deal with areas of your life that cause problems and give you the confidence you need to overcome them. By working with words and

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-73545849757374442682009-05-01T17:26:00.003-05:002009-05-01T17:45:05.492-05:00

Magic wands can help you to channel the mystical forces surrounding you and focus this power into the object of your spell.A wand functions as an antenna. When pointed upward and used with ritual and focus, it enables you to draw down magical energy. When spell casting, you can then point the wand at an object to release this power down your arm and into the wand, where the energy is

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-73738256748449040332009-04-30T10:52:00.002-05:002009-04-30T11:27:38.599-05:00

Following the path of Wicca means learning how to listen to a well-spring of inner knowledge and discovering how to use it in spell and ritual.Within all of us is a deep reservoir of untapped potential filled with knowledge about the physical and spiritual worlds. Part of Wicca is about getting in touch with that "inner knowing"--learning how to read the signals, which may be competing with all

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-30606431004031574502009-04-29T18:06:00.003-05:002009-04-29T19:42:42.531-05:00

Creating a magical altar is an essential part of being a Wiccan. It provides you with a special place in which to practice magic.All religions use altars, and the items that are placed there, such as cups, plates and candles, are imbued with a holy significance. The altar is a place "set aside" from daily life and is used as a focus for the meeting of spiritual and material worlds.The Role of

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-63358054408155884932009-04-29T17:17:00.003-05:002009-04-29T17:59:51.087-05:00

Wicca is a modern term that is often used in place of "Witchcraft" to get away from the negative images associated with that word. It is helpful to think of Witchcraft as the spell crafting part within a Wiccan Tradition, and also to remember that all Wiccans are Witches, but not all Witches are Wiccans. Wicca is more of the religious observance side, and Witchcraft alone is more about

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-34804376080646570382009-04-27T16:19:00.005-05:002009-04-27T17:04:21.341-05:00

With its serene and delicate beauty, rose quartz is a crystal that always draws admiration, but its subtle beauty hides powerful healing qualities.Beads made of rose quartz dating back to 7000 BC in ancient Mesopotamia show how long people have used the beauty of this crystal in jewelry. Rose quartz was also popular in the ancient world for making seals used to mark ownership of items--

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-16817948976320756362009-04-03T18:59:00.002-05:002009-04-03T19:30:13.644-05:00

I received an anonymous comment to my blog recently, quotes from Deuteronomy in the Bible that are supposed to make me rethink my spiritual path. And if I now turn to MY favorite spiritual guide book and quote from it passages to make the Christian Warrior rethink HIS path, would that make any difference to him?I am no more scared or concerned about quotes and sayings from old dead men as he

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-71736703086380797562009-02-09T17:34:00.003-06:002009-02-09T17:45:26.319-06:00

The following information is from "Witchery" at Wordpress.comhttp://witchery.wordpress.com/2008/02/05/february-full-moon-esbat/This is the one of the best pagan/witch blogs out there. I haven't had the dedication or the time lately to think of a good ritual on my own, so I would like to share her post and information with you. Please Note: I did not write this. This was taken from another

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-17084663809441196922008-10-26T14:18:00.003-05:002008-10-26T14:37:03.915-05:00

The beautiful sheen of moonstone seems to wax and wane like its namesake - and this crystal has featured in much lunar folklore.Moonstone is considered a sacred link to the Moon in many cultures. In ancient India, people thought that the stone grew under the rays of the Moon and absorbed its mystical qualities, while a curious Sri Lankan belief recounted that every 37 years waves influenced by

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-84240529141396026492008-10-06T07:53:00.002-05:002008-10-06T08:18:40.601-05:00

The lunar month of Ivy offers the opportunity to give thanks for life's blessings and to prepare for a period of spiritual growth.The Ivy Moon coincides with the end of the harvest season when successes and losses must be accounted for. In ancient times, intoxicating ale was brewed from ivy and was used to induce visions of the battlefield.The plant teaches us that restrictions are necessary to

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-20337275730962202792008-09-18T11:17:00.005-05:002008-09-18T13:53:12.005-05:00

From the book "Mabon: Celebrating the Autumn Equinox" by Kristin MaddenWhat is Mabon?Mabon is a relatively recent term for the neo-pagan festival celebrated on the Autumn Equinox, generally around September 21. This is the second of the three harvest festivals; a cross-quarter day midway between Lughnasadh (Lammas) and Samhain (Halloween).In many modern Wiccan traditions, this is considered to be

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-61700801590897078032008-09-03T19:28:00.002-05:002008-09-03T19:47:30.762-05:00

The lunar month of the Vine offers the opportunity to bring your plans to fruition before the winter begins.The Autumn Equinox, when night and day are of equal length, occurs during the month of the Vine Moon. It helps you realign your energy to prepare for the dark half of the year.The month of the Vine Moon is a time to value input from others and any networks that are made may prove useful in

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-40917099126653813852008-08-19T20:38:00.002-05:002008-08-19T21:38:12.886-05:00

The incredible golden and azure-blue beauty of lapis lazuli has caused it to be valued for millennia as one of the most sacred of stones.Lapis lazuli is a mixture of hauyne, lazurite and sodalite in a matrix of calcite, with pieces of pyrite providing the golden flecks. Its name means "sky stone," from the Latin "lapis" meaning "stone" and the Persian "lazward" meaning "blue" or "sky". It has

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-85095416267619756922008-08-11T11:03:00.003-05:002008-08-11T11:33:29.367-05:00

The Celtic name for the hazel tree is "coll" meaning "nine", and the Hazel Moon is the ninth month of the Celtic Tree Calendar. A myth tells how nine nuts of wisdom fell from the hazel tree into a river where a magic salmon ate them. The salmon then became a prized catch, gifted with shape-shifting powers and infinite wisdom.A time for learningThe Hazel Moon offers you an opportunity to connect

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-50023303781517048222008-07-13T16:30:00.002-05:002008-07-13T16:55:37.213-05:00

The Celtic lunar month of Holly is the perfect time to celebrate your achievements and to focus on your future dreams.The eighth Celtic Moon month ushers in the shortening of the days. The power of the Sun is transferred to Earth, highlighting our practical needs and desires. The Celtic fire festival of Lammas begins the harvest on August 1, so the month of the Holly Moon is a time to give

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-71609473660605296162008-06-26T11:48:00.002-05:002008-06-26T12:43:11.788-05:00

I was accidentally watching the 700 club yesterday, and they ran a story about a former Wiccan who had turned back to Christianity:http://www.cbn.com/700club/features/amazing/Shalom_Serene060107.aspxI never watch the 700 club on purpose, I had just finished watching the previous show and hadn't changed the channel yet. They aired a teaser about a Wiccan who had become Christian, so I stayed to

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-67214604332382923452008-06-08T21:00:00.006-05:002008-06-08T22:02:13.381-05:00

From the book, "Midsummer: Magical Celebrations of the Summer Solstice" by Anna Franklin.Midsummer--A Natural Time of CelebrationEvery culture has, at some point in its history, marked the time of Midsummer and held it to be enchanted.The Celts, the Norse, and the Slaves believed that there were three "spirit nights" in the year when magic abounded and the Otherworld was near. The first was

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-91095679877872202652008-04-30T21:17:00.003-05:002008-04-30T22:04:39.550-05:00

Since ancient times the May season has been a time of celebration and merriment. The appearance of flowers after a cold winter season signals the promise of warm summer days to come. Many of the modern celebrations of May are rooted in ancient pagan traditions that honored the earth and the forces that renewed life. In many pre-Christian European regions, Nature was perceived as a goddess and

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-70944581818883162372008-03-23T11:52:00.002-05:002008-03-23T12:16:05.472-05:00

From the author, Edain McCoy, and her book~> Ostara: Customs Spells, and Rituals for the Rites of SpringThe Anglo-Saxons hailed Eostre as the Goddess of Spring, The Greening Earth, and Fertility. Her name means "moving with the waxing sun." Around the time of her festival, on the day when light and dark are equal, the local animals began giving birth or going into their sexually receptive

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-19085065132536300522008-03-18T18:01:00.003-05:002008-03-18T18:35:19.249-05:00

The Spring Equinox is the traditional celebration of the new life that bursts forth with spring.It has given us the modern celebration of Easter.Spring Equinox traditionally falls on March 20-21, and is the exact midpoint between the winter and summer solstices. Starting at sundown on March 20, there are exactly 12 hours of night and 12 hours of daylight.This is a time of huge energy. Nature is

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-67020666502086489182008-03-03T10:35:00.006-06:002008-03-03T20:41:19.281-06:00

A couple of years ago, I found myself tormented by horrifying nightmares. I would avoid going to sleep at night because they terrified me so much. And, it was always the same theme, the same feeling of doom and no escape, leading into a terrifying leap from a building or falling from a ledge just to get away from the demons. I started sleeping with a very large amethyst geode on my headboard,

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-32699501944426889352008-01-29T15:08:00.000-06:002008-12-11T01:00:20.638-06:00

The fire festival of Imbolc brings the first thaw of winter. It is a time of rebirth, fertility and nurturing under the auspices of the Virgin Goddess.Imbolc brings the very first whisperings of spring. Early spring flowers peep up through the cold earth and the tiniest buds begin to form on the trees. Winter is by no means over--in fact the worst is often still to come--but there is a glimmer of

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-90081045694164816832008-01-20T22:01:00.004-06:002008-12-11T01:00:22.232-06:00

I purchased a book from this site, titled "Pagan Prayer Beads: Magic and Meditation with Pagan Rosaries". This book is written by John Michael Greer and Clare Vaughn.This is an excellent book to use when making your own prayer beads to use in ritual. The idea of making prayer beads for use in meditation began in India, where Hindus use a mala ( a string of 108 identical beads , usually made from

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-91767341766429793722008-01-08T18:47:00.000-06:002008-01-08T19:14:30.510-06:00

The Celtic calendar begins with the month of the Birch Moon, a time of new beginnings and making plans for the future.The first of the 13 months of the Celtic calendar is the month of the Birch Moon. It begins just after Yuletide and runs through most of January.Starting just after the Winter Solstice---the shortest day of the year---the month of the Birch Moon marks the period of the year when

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-81819440640725368522007-12-08T18:38:00.000-06:002007-12-08T19:08:33.510-06:00

The world is frozen at Winter solstice and, in nature, little is happening on the surface. Deep in the Earth, however, the roots are putting out shoots ready for the push toward life when the weather warms in spring. This is the season of rebirth, and many religions celebrate the birth of a Sun King. In Christianity, it is the child Jesus, the "Light of the World".The Fruition of DreamsThe

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-69023829260172903362007-11-24T21:18:00.000-06:002007-11-24T21:21:04.427-06:00

When a friend becomes ill, help speed his or her recovery by performing a cleansing ritual.Performing a cleansing spell will help to cleanse your sick friends of their illness, and of any problems that might interfere with their recovery, such as feelings of vulnerability and depression.Allowing time to recoverBefore beginning, be mindful of your intentions; a person may need to go through a

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-42280013121467593432007-10-15T17:09:00.000-05:002007-10-15T17:40:35.793-05:00

The Ivy Moon coincides with the end of the harvest season when successes and losses must be accounted for. In ancient times, intoxicating ale was brewed from ivy and was used to induce visions of the battlefield.The plant teaches us that restrictions are necessary to help us hone our skills. During this month, remember that your enemies are your teachers and that opposition is a blessing in

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-40757905437795756642007-10-10T10:36:00.000-05:002007-10-10T10:37:53.483-05:00

from SCIPA Wishing magic utilizes the natural sources in the world around you. You can call upon the four elements of earth, air, fire and water; using wishing crystals, flowers, herbs and spices; or find a wishing tree for your spell. Use images of the things you desire to focus the intent of your spell. Your

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-59016137851097224922007-08-31T10:02:00.000-05:002007-08-31T10:24:52.233-05:00

I am a practicing Wiccan, and have been since Mabon 2003, just shy of a year after leaving the Morg*. I actually started out looking up Wicca on the Internet because I was gunning for an ex-husband who claimed he had "connections" with covens and black magic practitioners and was thinly veiling threats of vengeance upon me for leaving him. I wanted to gain information on Wicca so I could

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-44947386756412918932007-08-09T11:12:00.000-05:002007-08-09T11:34:17.718-05:00

When you start working with crystals, you also need to think about their care. As you use your crystals regularly, you'll build up a personal link with them, attuning them to your body's unique energies. You can also charge them up from other sources of magical energy, such as the Moon. As you use the gems, the energies they've built up will be dispersed. You'll need to recharge them from

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-51534511974799118572007-07-16T21:12:00.000-05:002007-07-16T21:44:03.082-05:00

Amethyst, the birthstone of Aquarius, is an extremely versatile crystal for use around the home, in jewelry or in crystal or in healing and meditation. It stimulates all the energy centers of your body, your mind and your spirit. You can channel amethyst's power by carrying a small crystal in your pocket. Holding your crystal while you meditate enhances your mental clarity and improves your

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-81772790265521658232007-06-24T22:28:00.000-05:002007-06-24T22:29:11.488-05:00

This is a time for Magic. In the calendar system, this moon may often be known as the the Blessing Moon in reference to the blessings of the sacred marriages of earth and sky, or dark and light, or the King and Queen of summer. In many other belief systems there are already time-honored traditions for the establishment of a calendar. In the Celtic Tree Calendar the name of this moon is Duir (

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-30685194324039354852007-06-19T21:00:00.000-05:002007-06-19T21:01:13.704-05:00

The age-old tradition of playing with colored ribbons and tying them in knots is rooted in folk magic.Ribbons are a basic ingredient of most spells, and ribbon magic is one of the simplest ways to literally weave magic. Ribbons are easy to obtain, and it is worth buying a variety of different colored ones for use. An old custom that still persists into modern times is the Maypole---men, women and

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-19025101316902516102007-06-16T21:55:00.000-05:002007-06-16T22:20:16.761-05:00

The light and warmth of a candles' flame is one of our most powerful connections to fire--the element of creativity, life and health.Remember the first time you made a wish as you blew out the candles on a birthday cake? As a child you believed your wish would come true and had an innocent faith that something magical would happen. You probably didn't realize it, but as you visualized the end

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-34884683784888656532007-05-29T22:13:00.000-05:002007-05-29T22:14:04.165-05:00

Virtually every culture and religion throughout history has used stones symbolically or decoratively. Their beauty and scarcity as well as the feelings they inspire makes them very valuable.Many crystals also have practical uses that we can incorporate into our daily lives. They can gather and direct magical energy that exists all around and within us. Like ancient mystics, we can learn to use

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-84193769991242835092007-05-22T12:44:00.000-05:002007-05-22T12:47:29.423-05:00

On May 31, 2007 at 20:04 CST the moon will enter it’s full stage for the second time in a month. This is called a Blue Moon and occurs roughly once every 2½ years. ( In Europe and England, this will occur June 1, giving them a Blue Moon on June 30th)Full Moon RitualThis is a VERY powerful ritual. I have had great results from this. If done correctly, the presence of the Lady can be strongly felt

Astarte Moonsilverhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00848007441472899787noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3891890861725677643.post-23650475573898286892007-05-14T17:54:00.001-05:002007-05-14T17:56:16.514-05:00

From Midnight MoonchildMythology surrounding the ancient god Attis clearly predates those of Jesus Christ. Before and during the years the Christian Gospels were written (from the reign of Claudius, AD 41to 54) a celebration known as The Festival of Joy, celebrated the death and rebirth of Attis. In the mythos, Attis was born of a virgin named Nana. He grew up to become a sacrificial victim and

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This is a time for Love.In pagan lore the Summer Prince and the Maiden of the Moon meet, and find delight in each others company, hence, this is known as the Honey Moon. In fact, in many cultures and beliefs this is seen as the time in the Wheel of the Year when the goddess in her mature aspect of Queen of the May is coupled with the god in his mature aspect of Summer King. Together they will

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Once more, the Wheel turns and now brings Beltane. This is one of the most important holiday observances in many pagan beliefs and may be seen as an unashamed celebration of the pleasures of life with a focus designed to highlight the physical joys of womanhood and manhood. The goddess and god, now the May Queen and her beloved Sun Prince (the sun child now grown to manhood) are wed. The seed of

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To settle a lawsuit, the Department of Veterans Affairs has agreed to add the Wiccan pentacle to a list of approved religious symbols that it will engrave on veterans’ headstones.The settlement, which was reached on Friday, was announced on Monday by Americans United for the Separation of Church and State, which represented the plaintiffs in the case.Though it has many forms, Wicca is a type of

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March 21 -- Ostara -- Spring or The Vernal Equinox Also known as: Lady Day or Alban Eiler (Druidic) As Spring reaches its midpoint, night and day stand in perfect balance, with light on the increase. The young Sun God now celebrates a hierogamy (sacred marriage) with the young Maiden Goddess, who conceives. In nine months, she will again become the Great Mother. It is a time of great fertility

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Link to this postFace East and say:O lord and lady of the east,O powers of air,Come gard my circle and protect my rites,O lord and lady of the east,O powers of air.(Light inscense/yellow candle)Face South and say:O lord and lady of the south,O powers of fire,Come guard my circle and protect my rites,O lord and lady of the south,O powers of fire.(Light a red candle)Face West and say:O lord and

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THE GODDESS We recognize the Goddess - ancient and primeval; the first of deities; patroness of the Stone Age hunt and of the first sowers of seeds; She gave birth without the need of man; under whose guidance the herds were tamed, the healing herbs first discovered; in whose image the first works of art were created; for whom the standing stones were raised; who

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Vernal Equinox(Eostara)The Wheel turns again and with this turn comes the Vernal Equinox or Eostara. At this time the hours of daylight and night are balanced against each other. After this time, and until the Autumnal Equinox, daylight will have the ascendent influence. The goddess awakened from her deep winter slumbers and returned from the underworld, now wears the aspect of the Maiden of

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Blessings and Libation:Bless cakes:I conjure You, O meal of grainWho sprouted in both Sun and RainWhose Ancient seed fulfills us allAnd gains new life where e'er it fallsI bless You in this Circle roundThat Your abundance may aboundAnd feed our world continuouslyAs I will, so mote it be.Bless wine:I conjure You, O fruit of vineWho grew with Wind and Rain and TimeFrom nothing but the light of

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The Lady--O Goddess of both Moon and StarWho rules all planets near and farWho rules the Earth and all withinWho sets the time our lives beginWho brings us happiness and mirthWho gives us value and self worthWith every loving touch She givesUnto this plane on which we livePlease descend now from aboveAnd touch this Circle with Your loveAnd join us in this sacred riteO Goddess, bring your love and

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East--Come to us now, O Winds of the East!Whirl and twirl 'til the magic has ceased.Blow through our hearts, and the energy raise.Blow away clouds and blow away haze.The Circle is Open---Your power please lend.Your presence is welcomed, we bid you come in!South--Come to us now, O Southerly Fires!Warm light, pure strength, add flame to desires.Cleanse and purify all thoughts mundane.Protect well

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Earth---Peace, Grounding, Centering, Fertility, Money, Business Success, Stability, GardeningStones and Crystals associated with EarthGreen Agate, Green Calcite, Cat's Eye, Chrysoprase, Coal, Emerald, Brown and Green Jasper, Jet, Malachite, Olivine, Peridot, Salt, Black and Green Tourmaline, Turquoise.___________________________________________________________________Air---Communication, Travel,

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Colors. We perceive them as bright or dark, deep or light, sort-of this and sort-of that, but regardless of whether it's a royal blue or an earth brown, color affects us. It has been proven that colors have an affect on our brains and they do produce different emotional results. What do you think of when you see red? Passion? Maybe anger? Regardless, the response is dramatic. Colors as

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The Wheel of the Year consists of eight Sabbats. All the Sabbats are solar in nature, marking the passing of the year with natural milestones. Some break the Sabbats down into major and minor, the major Sabbats being Samhain (pronounced SOW-in) Imbolc, (or Candlemas), Beltane, (May Day) and Lughnasadh (pronounced LOO-na-sad, aka Lammas). The minor Sabbats are Yule (Winter Solstice), Ostara (

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O, Mother Goddess, O, Father God,Answers to all mysteries and yet mysteries unanswered;In this place of power, I open myself to Your Essence.In this place and in this time, I am changed;From henceforth I walk the Wiccan path.I dedicate myself to You, Mother Goddess, and Father God.I breathe Your energies into my body, co-mingling, blending,mixing them with mine, that I may see the divine in

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To be performed before any serious ritual:O, Goddess Mother, gentle and mildLook down and bless me, forI am your child(anoint eyelids)Please bless my eyes that I might seeYour ways and Your pathand how things should be(anoint lips)Please bless my lips so that they maycarry Your words to all peoplewith a voice light and merry(anoint chest)Bless my breast too, let it be formedin strength and

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"Attuning and working with these energies in magic not only lends you the power to affect dramatic changes in your life, it also allows you to sense your own place in the larger scheme of Nature"Scott Cunningham, Earth PowerThe Elements play an enormous role in the natural magick that most Wiccans use. Earth, Air, Fire, Water. They are more than physical elements, more than what we see and

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1. No conversion or recruitment is necessary.Wiccans have no insecure compulsion to convert everyone to their way of thinking. People come to Wicca when and if they are ready/interested. Furthermore, you are not required to accept or do anything that you're not comfortable with.2. No artificial code of morality.Out of all of the creatures of this Earth, only humans are forced to live under

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Witches know that no truths are absolute. There is no one absolute truth for anything. There is no one way to interpret reality, behave, think, or live. Therefore there is no single way to practice magick, pray, celebrate the seasons or spirituality. The idea that there is only one truth to any question leads to fanaticism, compulsion, and persecution. Witches understand that the Universe

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1. We practice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the Moon and the seasonal Quarters and Cross Quarters.2. We recognize that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility towards our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfillment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept.3.

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Of all the symbols and tolls used in Wicca and witchcraft, this is probably the most misunderstood. The pentacle is usually a flat piece of metal or wood inscribed with a pentagram, a five pointed star. The pentacle came from ceremonial magic and has been used in ritual and magick for thousands of years. It is used to represent feminine energy and to consecrate objects such as amulets and

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The Chalice is actually used more today than its direct descendant, the Cauldron. The Chalice has the same attributes and is used in many of the same ways as the Cauldron, (minus the cooking parts). This is, again, an example of witches using what they had and what would not get them burned at the stake. During those dark years, everyone had drinking vessels, but not everyone had cauldrons.

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The broom is a tool of magick and ritual that is still used by Witches today. The traditional Witch's broom is made of ash, birch, and willow because of the attributes of those woods, but it can be made of just about any wood available.Although not employed for flying purposes, the broom does have many uses. It is used for protection. It is also and most commonly used for physically and

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In the realm of magick this book shall reside.No one but the chosen shall see what’s inside.If breath be to Air as passion to Fire,Let harm come to none, this is my desire.If life be to Earth as Water to emotions,This book be filled with magical potions.May the Gods protect it, keep it from harm,And upon it bestow power, magick and charm.No one without wisdom shall peer at its pages,Or the

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The Stone is used in much the same way as the pentacle and relates to it in many ways. It is a tool of the North and represents the Earth. For those of the Faery Tradition, the Stone has a very rich history. Again, the Stone is another tool that is often thought to be a trade off for many witches. Where a pentacle can be an inflammatory symbol, much misunderstood, just about everyone has rocks

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The cauldron is an ancient tool of magick and ritual. It is normally a three-legged vessel, ideally made of iron and has the opening smaller that the body of the cauldron. They come in a variety of sizes from little ones that can be held in one hand to behemoth cauldrons that take three strapping young men to move. The cauldron is used for many different purposes. It is used for magickal brewing

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The censer is an incense burner. It can be an ornate brass burner that hangs from chains or something as simple as a small ceramic bowl.The censer is used to burn the incense that are often offered to the Deities, as well as being used to invoke the spirits of the Air, the Sylphs and Faery.The censer is a tool of the element of Air.

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The wand is one of the most renown of the tools and one of the most versatile. Traditionally, the wand is made from the wood of many different kinds of trees including willow, elder, oak, hazel, and fruit trees. The length of the wand varies from tradition to tradition, but it is safe to say that the wand should be fairly straight, comfortable in your hand and is not so long as to be unwieldy.

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The athame (pronounced ah-that-may) is normally a dark or black handled, double-sided knife or dagger. The athame is normally dull, for it is not used to cut. The athame is used to direct energy and is often employed when casting circle. Symbols and words are sometimes engraved on the handle, but it is not necessary.The athame is the tool of the East and is associated with the element of Air.

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Bide the Wiccan laws ye must, in perfect love and perfect trust.Live and let live--- Fairly take and fairly give.Cast the Circle thrice about To keep all evil spirits out.To bind the spell every time, Let the spell be spake in rhyme.Soft of eye and light of touch— Speak little, listen much.Deosil go by the waxing Moon- Sing and dance the Wiccan rune.Widdershins go when the Moon doth wane, And the

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1. Know yourself2. Know your craft3. Learn4. Apply knowledge with wisdom5. Achieve balance6. Keep your words in good order7. Keep your thoughts in good order8. Celebrate life9. Attune with the cycles of the Earth10. Breathe and eat correctly11. Exercise the body12. Meditate13. Honor the Goddess and God

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Astarte is also known as Astarat and Astoreth. She is an incarnation of Ishtar and Inanna. This Semitic Goddess was worshipped by the Syrians, Canaanites (today called Palestinians), Phoenicians, Egyptians and other Semitic Tribes. King Solomon built a Temple to Her as Astoreth, near Jerusalem.Astarte was worshipped as many things, to the Egyptians, She was honored as a Goddess of War and

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