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Ma'iingan




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Saturday, June 27, 2009

Frequently Asked Questions

Ah at last, a time to answer some numbingly over asked questions. But this time it's my turn to answer these questions, in my own way. Now, I've gotten these questions from other sites (can't remember where off hand), but I have answered the questions in my own way, with my own opinion. I do not reflect all Witches with my answers, but there may be a few who agree with my answers. So, without further ado...here's MY take on the "Witches FAQ":

Witchcraft
1) What is Witchcraft?
In simplest terms, Witchcraft is the practice of manipulating energies to reach a desired goal. This manipulation can be done in the form of a ritual, spell, incantation, divination, meditation, chanting etc… among other things.

2) What is Wicca?
Wicca is a religion, they hold great honor for nature (they do not worship it). They worship a God and Goddess, follow the Wiccan rede which states “An it harm none, do as thou will” which does NOT mean do what ever you want.

3) Is Witchcraft the same thing as Wicca?
Those new to Wicca would say yes… but this is a misinformed assumption. As one who has practiced and studied for a while, I will say No. In a nutshell, Wicca is a religion…Witchcraft is not. Wicca relies on the belief in a dualistic deity that comes in the form of a Goddess and God, they also revere nature and the cycles it goes through during the year. They follow a general guideline called “The Wiccan Rede” which in its shortest form states “An it harm none, do as thou will.” Wiccans will make use of Witchcraft in their practices, but not all do, as not all feel the need to.

Witchcraft contains none of the above mentioned. There are no God’s to worship, no “generalized” rules for every witch. Witches may honor Nature, as we all come from nature, and it is that which governs our lives. But, we do not honor nature as a deity itself…just a life form from which we all sprang.

4) How is it related to Paganism?
In a sense, it doesn’t, as Paganism is the term used to describe ANY “religion” that is not of the Abrahamic Religions. Witchcraft is not a religion, as there are no deities to worship, nor any religious dogma to follow. It is a practice…a set of skills learned through time through great study and practice.

5) Is Witchcraft a form of Satanism?
NO! This is a misinterpretation from many a religious folk who believe in a Deity known as Satan. Witches don’t believe in any deities known as “Satan” or “The Devil”. This idea comes from those who fear the odd-looking practices Witches do…making use of herbs, candles, cords, etc…They believe that anything that is not of their God, automatically comes from Satan.

6) Are you a good Witch or a bad Witch?
I’m neither. Witchcraft cannot be placed in to two definite, black and white categories. Intentions of the caster determine whether or not their actions are honorable. Sometimes some Witches choose to act in less than honorable ways, but that doesn’t make them bad or good. Everyone has the tendencies to do negative things. Does that make them bad? No…it makes them Human.

7) Do all Witches practice magick?
Generally yes. When a Witch makes use of ritual or spell work, they manipulate the energies that surround us to create change. This manipulated energy, when working is in itself “magic”. We cannot see the magic working, any more than we can see the signal going from one cell phone to the other. The energy is there…we know it is, but we cannot see it, much like that cell phone signal.

8) I want to become a Witch.
If you have the desire to want to become a Witch, then by all means, do so. But remember that Witchcraft is not a game. It is not a toy that one flips out at a moments notice to impress friends; it is not a toy that is used during sleepovers to scare each other. The practices a Witch does will result in REAL things. If an inexperienced individual dabbles in that which he/she doesn’t understand, someone can become seriously hurt. You don’t drive a car without first taking lessons, do you?

9) How old do you have to start to practice the art of witchcraft?
There are many out there who believe that they want to be Witches at say the ages between 12-14. I believe this is too young for one to start learning on their own (unless their parent is teaching them, then it is up to the parent as to what age to start them at). If an individual wants to begin learning about Witchcraft, I’d say from about 17-18 (and older) would be a good age to start, as around then, the seeker would understand better the ways of the craft, and be better able to decide whether or not the path truly is right for them and not just a passing fancy.

10) How do I become a Witch?
By declaring that you wish to dedicate your life to the study and practice of Witchcraft would be a good first step. Next one would put actions to words and spend as much time as possible to studying before practicing. Find a group, research online and in books the information, and history of Witchcraft…how to practice, what magic is, what spells are, and how to write your own are some general basics. After that, it’s up to whatever calls you to, to study next.

11) Can I be born a Witch?
No. That is like asking “Can I be born a Carpenter?” “Can I be born an Artisan?” No, one developes the knowledge and abilities attained through hard work, study, practice and patience. No one is born already able to practice Witchcraft right from birth. They learn it through years of study.

12) Do you have to be born a Witch or can you become one?
I firmly believe that you CANNOT be born a Witch. To be born a Witch would mean that you are born with all the knowledge and skills needed to practice witchcraft successfully. No one is born with that amount of knowledge. It takes a great deal of study and practice to become fluently experienced in the Craft.

13) What is a natural witch?
A Natural Witch would be someone who has a natural tendency towards nature. Having a natural ability to understand herbs, and how to combine them to be effective in whatever means they wish to use them. Also they would have a natural ability to harness certain abilities…say empathy or psychism. Now, please note that one does NOT need to have a “psychic” ability to become a witch.

14) I think I might be part witch. Is there any way to tell if someone in my family history had Witch blood?
No one is born a Witch. Just like no one is born a carpenter, or a banker…or even a Christian. Becoming a witch is a choice made. YOU have to decide whether or not you want to be a witch. If you have witches in your family, then there is probably someone who can teach you to become a witch yourself and follow in their footsteps. You cannot be a Witch by blood.

15) Are male Witches called Warlocks?
No. A witch is a witch regardless of sex. Warlock is a derogatory term meaning “oathbreaker” or “traitor”. The term ‘Witch’ is an androgynous term that can be used to refer to anyone who practices Witchcraft, male or female.

16) I want to be a Wizard. Can you help me to become one?
Witches tend not to believe in wizardry…as many who want to be Wizards think it’s like Harry Potter. A male can be a Witch and practice witchcraft. The word Witch is not gender specific, it encompasses both males and females.

17) Who is the founder of Witchcraft?
It depends again on what you are referring to. If you are referring to Wicca, many would say that Gerald Gardner is the original founder or the Father of Wicca and he founded it around 50-60 years ago. However, if you are referring to Witchcraft in general, no one is really sure. Witchcraft has been around for centuries, and was even perhaps performed by Cavemen when they first emerged from their caves. However it wasn’t called “Witchcraft” until the early church discovered this unconventional way of practice.

18) What is a gift in witchcraft? does each person have one? If so how do I get it?
Remember that to possess a gift does not automatically mean one is a Witch. Becoming a Witch is a conscious choice made, not a birthright. Now, there are many who are born with “gifts”. These gifts could be anything from empathy, clairvoyance, clairaudience, telekinesis, etc… Sometimes these gifts are present from birth, sometimes it takes practice to become adept. One does not need to be a Witch in order to use these gifts.

19) Can I practice witchcraft without worshiping the Lord and Lady?
Absolutely. There are more ways of practicing witchcraft than the practice of Wicca. Remember…Wicca is a religion that encompasses the workings of Witchcraft. It is not witchcraft itself. Witchcraft is a practice, a set of skills, not a religion.

20) What is a tradition in relation to Witchcraft?
A tradition would be a lineage that would have been passed on from one generation to another. Say a Grandmother, passing her knowledge of the craft to the Mother, and the Mother passing her knowledge to her daughter, and so forth. Another form of tradition could be a Coven lineage, in which those who practice as a group pass on knowledge and crafting information to new members.

21) What are the major traditions in Witchcraft?
There really are no traditions when it comes to Witchcraft. Many practice lines passed down from one generation to another, but generally these lines are not titled. There are a few, however, titled traditions, and they include those such as Santeria (Italian Witchcraft), and BTW (British Traditional Witchcraft). These are traditions that involve study under the guidance of covens (generally), however, one CAN learn solitary. Then there are those who practice eclectically, adding what feels right to their practice.

22) What is a path in relation to Witchcraft?
A path would be the direction you lead your life in, in regards to your practice. Everyone leads a path in their lives, they go in whichever direction they feel is right for them. No two people ever walk the same path. Some may walk similar paths, but each has their own subtle differences that makes each path an individual one.

23) What is the ethical standard for Witchcraft?
I would have to say that it is individual for each Witch…but I believe that any Witch would believe that “Taking responsibility for one’s actions and the outcome of those actions” would be a pretty standard ethical guideline. Putting blame on someone else for your actions would be unethical, and just plain rude and wrong.

24) What is a"dedication" and "rites of passage" in Witchcraft?
A “Dedication” is a ritual in which a Witch makes a full blown dedication to the craft. They may make a statement that they plan to make the Craft their life-long pursuit, and make a declaration that they plan to make study and practice a part of their lives.

A “Rite of Passage” is a ceremony that celebrates certain phases in a person’s life. Celebrating a birth, puberty (first menstruation for girls, coming of age for boys), marriage, menopause, etc…

25) Who here thinks they are a Witch?
Those who take a serious interest and serious study to the craft of Witchcraft KNOW they are a Witch. Only those who don’t take things seriously, dabble with spells, and watch Charmed and The Craft religiously “Think” they are a Witch. Taking on the title of Witch shouldn’t be taken lightly. One should study for a few years, properties of herbs, stones, colors, etc…spell crafting, ritual performance as well as the history, before taking on the title of Witch. You must know your path before you can declare it yours.

26) Are you guys like those girls in the movie "The Craft"?
Hardly! Witches are not obsessed with gaining power, fulfilling mundane desires, or glamour. As I stated before, Witches wish nothing more than to contribute positively to the world, and this could mean sending healing, positive and calming energies to someone who is ill, or herding off a dangerous individual through appropriate means, in the hopes of helping the individual gain a positive view on their lives.

27) Prove to me that you are a Witch.
If you don’t believe that I am a Witch, then nothing I do or show you will change your mind. I have no need to prove anything to anyone, nor perform for the amusement of others. You either believe or you don’t, and that all falls on you and you alone.

28) What do Witches do?
Witches do many things. They are healers, diviners, counsellors, herbalists, crafters, etc…we work with the surrounding energies to create needed changes in our lives and the lives of those who are important to us. We study, learn, and practice throughout our lives, and never feel we have learned everything there is to know, as we will never learn everything. Nature is continually changing, and so is our craft.

Christianity/Religious vs. Witchcraft
1) Can I be a witch even if I am a Christian?
There is much debate of this question. It all stems from the definition of Witch. If you are referring to a Witch as in a Wiccan sense, then the answer would be no. A Wiccan CANNOT be Christian at the same time, as one cannot service two masters (two religions); one cannot be faithful to both the Christian God and the Wiccan Lord and Lady at the same time. (Note: Please see my post titled "Do Wiccans Believe in any Gods?" on Wicca and deity worship)

If you are referring to a general Witch, then the answer would be yes, as Witchcraft in this sense is not a religion, it is a practice or skill. Witchcraft in this sense services no deities, nor follows any religious dogma. Only personally set ethical guidelines that the individual witch creates and thus follows (For Example: Accept responsibility for all actions taken and the end results).

However…I as a Witch and former Catholic will say no. The bible clearly states that Witchcraft is forbidden. Why a Christian who wishes to please their Lord and go to heaven, would choose to practice something that He condemns at the same time as practicing Christianity, is beyond me.

2) Can I be a Christian, or a Jew, or a Muslim, or a Buddhist, or other religous affiliation, and still be a Witch?This is a common question I have seen many ask. While Witchcraft is a practice, many religions condemn its practices, for the simple fact that they are afraid of it. Most of their religious text clearly state that it is against religious belief to practice any form of sorcery or witchcraft, for the end result would be eternal torment in the afterlife. Buddhism on the other hand doesn’t state anywhere in their belief system that it condemns Witchcraft, but I don’t think any Buddhists really have any interests in practicing Witchcraft. But I could be wrong.

Beliefs
1) I don't understand the law of threefold.
Again, there are many schools of thought on this. Many dedicated Wiccans will adhere to the idea that anything sent out will come back exactly “times three”. Others believe that this is only metaphoric and that what is sent out will come back a multiple of times, but in no set amount. I guess it would be up to the individual believer how many times they believe they will get back what they send out.

2) What do Witches believe happens after you die?
This belief is as individual as the Witch him/herself. Many believe they go to a place called Summerland, a place of eternal summer in which one reflects on the life lived and waits for the time when they will be reincarnated. Some believe in a place of reflection of lessons learned on earth, and if one must return to the earth to learn more, or re-learn lessons of previous lives. Some still believe that we all blink out of existence. So as you can see there are various beliefs on the afterlife. Not all are right, and not all are wrong. No one really knows what will happen when we die, all we can do at this point is speculate, and wait for the inevitable.

3) Who are the Ancestors?
Basically “Ancestors” would be the spirits of those who have passed on, who assist the Witch in their practices.

4) What is the Other World?
The “Other World” is another term to describe the “Spirit World”. A place where those we have loved have passed on to.

5) Do Witches believe in reincarnation?
Again, depends on the individual Witch. The belief of reincarnation comes from the Eastern belief system of Buddhism in which you live your life to a point, then when you die, you reincarnate into another state of being to live again. Some Witches adhere to this belief, while others believe that life simply ends, still others believe that they go to a place of reflection before returning to earth.

Covens/Groups
1) What do you know about Covens or how we could get in touch with anybody who could assist in our learning process?I don’t know very much about covens, as I have been a solitary since the beginning. As I usually recommend, Witchvox.com is usually where witches go to find others of similar interests, teachers, or even covens in their area.

2) How many people can you have in the circle while performing a spell or ritual?It depends on how many you can gather, how many you feel comfortable being around…in other words it’s up to you and the others in the group. In a coven, there are usually no more than 13 people practicing together; but there can be others observing their work (if permitted), lending energy to the group. As I said it depends on how many you feel comfortable working with.

3) I have heard by some that you must be initiated into the craft. Is this true?
It would depend on the tradition, and even then it is only partially true. Many traditions cannot be followed unless you are formally initiated into a coven and trained BY that coven, as they are the only ones with the information needed to follow said tradition. However, many traditions can be learned about by this wonderful thing known as the internet (as well as books). BUT…one must take all information found on these sources with a grain of salt, as not all of it is sound information.

Now, does not need to be initiated by another witch to be a Witch. There are plenty of solitaries out there who have taught themselves successfully and have practiced for a great number of years. Remember, the witches of old didn’t have access to covens or study groups to learn their craft. Many, if not all, were solitary because in those days, you couldn’t simply post a bulletin announcing the formation of a coven or group…as those would be grounds for persecution or even death. Understand what fear of the unknown can do?

Deities/Gods
1) So you guys worship Satan, right?
Only according to Closed Minded individuals who believe Satan is the reason for everything negative in the world. No, we do not worship Satan. Satan is a creation designed to instil fear into the followers of certain organized religions and gain followers. He is created as a scapegoat to blame the ills of the world on, rather than have the real creators of those ills take proper responsibility. ‘Family in turmoil and about to split apart? Its caused from the Devil.’ Those who would believe this would rather blame the Devil for splitting apart the family rather than those who are causing the rift (parents, ill mannered grown children, outsiders, etc…).

2) So you don't believe in God? What do you believe in?
Whoever said that Witches don’t believe in God? There are many Witches who in fact believe in not only one God, but in fact several Gods. There are also some who are Atheist Witches who believe in no Gods but, Witches come in as varied belief as anyone else in the World. Yes, many of us believe in God, and some believe in Goddess. It's all dependant upon the individual Witch.

3) Who are the God and Goddess?
In a general Wiccan sense, the God and Goddess are the opposite sides of the All. A divine force that created the universe. The masculine and feminine side of this force. Like a diamond, the God and Goddess are separate but one, much like the facets of a diamond. There are many facets, yet one diamond.

4) What Gods do Witches worship?
That would be up to the individual Witch. Some Witches worship NO deities, and simply practice on their own, while some Witches practice with the assistance of whatever deity calls to them.

Meditation
1) While meditating some things appeared but not clear enough. Can you give me a bit more details on meditation?Chances are you are not concentrating enough, or there may be distractions. One must have quiet, uninterrupted time to meditate. Try lighting a candle or two to help with focusing. It may help you to see clearer.

2) I'm having trouble meditating. Is there any way to keep my mind focused?
Try a chant, calm soothing music. Don’t try not to think. You will focus yourself too much on trying not to think and you’ll lose your concentration. Light a candle and try to focus on it, and the goal you are trying to reach.

Magic and Spellwork
1) What is magick, and why do you spell it that way?
Magic cannot really be defined…the simplest way to describe Magic would be that force which creates the change…the process between the spell cast and the end result. It is an invisible force…it cannot be seen, it can be likened to the signal going from one cell phone to the other. You cannot see the signal yet the two people are talking regardless.

Magic is sometimes spelled with a “K” for esthetic purposes. Some people want to be unique in their writing and therefore add a “K” to the end of Magic. It’s not a necessity to spell magic that way, in fact I haven’t spelled magic like that in a number of years. Some will say that it helps to differentiate stage magic and magic performed by Witches. But magic spelled in any other way is still the same thing.

2) Why do you spell magick with a k?
This form of spelling became a fad not long after Aleister Crowley started using it. Many would say it differentiates two forms of magic:
Magic (without the K) = Stage Magic
Magic (with the K) = Magic used by Witches and other Magus

However, it is not a requirement to spell magic in this way. Many people who practice prefer to spell magic in their own ways: Magic, Magick, Magik, Majic, Majick, Majik, Majique, Magicque…all spelled differently, all mean the same.

3) What exactly IS a spell?
A spell is basically elaborate prayers with props. The props have no power in themselves, but are used to focus intent, create atmosphere and create a general positive working feel.

4) Can you make this guy I like, like me back?
No. And even if I could, this person wouldn’t love you for you. It would just be the result of the spell and the love would be empty. If you want to date a guy, ask him out. If he says no, you’re better off without. Why would you want to be with someone who doesn’t love you, because he loves you?

5) If you cast a good spell, can it come back to you bad?
Not necessarily. A so-called good spell would send out positive energy, therefore the logical solution would be that positive energy would return, and likewise with “bad spells”. But the universe is a mysterious place, and anything could happen. Literally!

6) Are there spells that we cannot do? Like that are not allowed?
No, there are no spells that Witches are not allowed to do. A witch may do any type of spell he/she wishes. This is what is referred to as “Free Will”. Everyone has the choice to do whatever they want…but it is up to them to determine the ethics behind their actions. Can they live with the end result?

As for spells that one cannot do…that would depend what type of spell you would be referring to. Spells to turn you into a mermaid, werewolf or vampire? No. A spell like this wouldn’t work, as magic cannot violate the laws of the universe nor the laws of physics. You cannot change your physical form with magic. You can change other people’s perception of how they see you, but you cannot change yourself into a vampire any more than you could make yourself 30lbs lighter.

7) Can you take back a spell once it is already done?
Many would say that you can. But, I do not entirely believe this. A spell is like a bullet. Once it’s out, cannot be taken back, which is why a witch must think long and hard as to whether or not it is beneficial to do the spell or not. AND once the spell is out, it must run its course. Like everything, a spell won’t last forever.

8) Are there any spells that you can have fun with like hair or eye color? And are there any for like weight loss or something out of the ordinary?
I believe this was covered under “spells we cannot do”. Spells cannot change a person’s physical appearance…they can only alter ones perception and view of us, called glamorizing. Casting a glamour spell doesn’t change our physical body, but changes the way others see us, perhaps even the way we see ourselves.

9) Is it better to personalize chants you say while doing spells? Will they still work?
It’s a good idea to put as much of yourself into any chants or spells as you can, that way more of your personal energies are then infused into the chant/spell. However, it is not a necessity. A spell will still work if you perform it as you find it, however it may be lacking in the much needed energies, or it may require you to use more energy than you normally would to manifest the changes needed.

10) I need help. I believe someone has put a hex on me.
I would need more information to fully respond to this inquiry. Many people will believe that because they encounter a string of bad luck, it automatically means they are hexed or cursed. This is just not so. A Witch (non-wiccan) generally won’t hex a person without an excellent reason; say the person did a heinous crime against another (rape, murder, severe abuse, etc). Also again, the Witch would take careful consideration of whether or not it is even worth hexing the person, or if they should let the mundane law enforcement take care of this incident. As for Wiccans, they generally won’t hex anyone, as their guideline or rule is “An it harm none, do as thou will”, which would mean that they wouldn’t hex as hexes generally harm the recipient.

11) Is there a hex on me? How do I get rid of it?
If you have determined that you have indeed been hexed by someone, the idea is not to dwell on it. You give the hex the power it needs by believing it will bring you misery. Firstly you would cleanse your area in a way that seems appropriate to you. Then you clear your mind of doubts, fears, etc…and begin to think positively. Remind yourself that nothing can harm you if you let it.

12) How do you know which spells are real and which are fake?
Well, typically, no spell is a fake. But if it is written in a silly language, or involves silly ingredients, or promises impossible results, then generally the spell will have no results. Remember, Spells cannot violate the laws of nature, the universe or physics.

13) How do you know if spells have worked after casting them?
You have to pay attention. Make note of things that don’t seem the same…have changed for the better or worse. Generally if you are paying enough attention, you will notice whether or not your spell is working (or not working).

14) Why aren't my spells working? They used to work all the time!
The spell is not the important thing. What is important is you and your confidence. If you are lacking in confidence, your spell (which worked once) may not work again. Also, if you are perhaps ill, you are lacking in energy, as most of it is being used to heal your body of the illness. If this is the case, give yourself time to recover, then try again.

15) I had a spell backfire on me. What do I do?
You must look back at what you did, and determine where you went wrong. Did you lose your confidence? Did you use items that didn’t properly correspond to each other? Did you think long and hard about whether or not you can take care of the situation without the use of spells? If the spell backfired, you must let it run it’s course. Stop what you’re doing, and let it go at it’s pace. Eventually the spell will wear off. THEN think long and hard if you really want to try again.

16) What about love spells??
Many Witches don’t condone the use of love spells, for those who ask for them wish to use them on very specific people, and this goes against the ideals of Free Will. To force someone to love you is unethical. Now, love spells can be done on non-specific people. You can place an intention out to the universe and the surrounding energies that you wish for someone of a compatible source to come to you. This doesn’t play with Free Will, it helps the one who is right for you to more easily find you.

Tools
1) What ritual tools do Witches use?
Again, this depends on the individual Witch. For the most part, it’s not that much different from a Wiccan Witch. They too use, Athame (for directing energy), Wands (again for directing energy), cauldrons, candles, herbs, stones, various colored items, divination tools (such as the pendulum, black mirror, tarot, runes, etc…), just to name a few.

2) What is a grimoire? How do I get one?
A Grimoire, is a Witches workbook. A better analogy would be a cookbook of sorts…containing everything the individual Witch deems important, and needs for practice, including spells, rituals, correspondence, astrological information, divination forms, visualization and meditation techniques.

A Witch obtains a Grimoire when one is ready. The Grimoire is handwritten by the individual witch (that is to say that they write it out. If one chooses to type it on the computer, this is fine too). The Grimoire can be made of anything one wants/can afford. A Grimoire can be written in a notebook, stored in a binder, or even placed in an elaborate book. It’s up to the individual Witch as to what they want to use to store their Grimoire in.

3) What kind of pen do you write with when you’re writing in a Book of Shadows?
That is up to the person writing. Many will say that you need a specific pen to write in your Book as it keeps it consistent, however, I have used many pens in my book, as when I needed to write something down in my book, I had to use whatever pen was around. Now, if you wish to stick to just one specific pen, the best thing to do would be to tie your pen to your book, that way you would always have the same pen around.

The type of pen, again, is up to the user. Some like to use a calligraphy pen, others a regular ball point pen, and still others would use pencil. It’s entirely up to you.

4) What is Dragon's Blood?
Contrary to what many would believe…Dragon’s blood, Dove’s blood, Bat’s blood has no real blood in it. It is made from a resin from a plant from Japan (I do believe). It is added to ink to tint it blood color and allows the user to write in blood-colored ink for spells. I’m not sure at this time what the plant is called, unfortunately.

5) Where can I buy an altar?
Again, contrary to what people believe, an altar need not be bought. An altar can be set up on nothing more than the floor. However, if you really wish to have a table-top altar, a nightstand would work wonderfully. Any table you can spare for a bit would work, your dresser top, or even a window sill.

6) Does the altar have to be set up at all times?
No. Sometimes our lives will not accommodate the ability to leave our altars up. Some of us live with those who do not understand our ways and we therefore have to have temporary altars in which are set up ONLY when we practice. Others are lucky enough to live with others who are understanding or even practice with them. These have permanent altars

7) Is there a way to get stuff for free? I don't get much money and its hard to buy stuff
Absolutely. You can make your own tools. It’s really not as hard as you would think. A wand can be made from a branch found on the ground, same with an athame…you just carve it into the shape you want (be careful). Paint a pentacle/gram on a piece of cardboard for your altar pentacle (please do not put anything hot on it); use a tin can for a censer; use an old bowl or pot for a cauldron…you need not buy elaborate materials to practice, you can use what you have around your home. Remember, it’s not the tools that make the witch, it’s the desire inside.

8) Aside from the obvious, what other items could I use to represent the Elements?
Earth: Pentacle, bowl of salt, stones, plants, flowers, green candle
Air: Incense, feather, yellow candle
Fire: Lava rock, red candle, any candles
Water: blue candle, bowl of water, seashell

9) Why are witches always pictured on brooms?
Long ago, Witches, when performing rituals, would sit on brooms and gallop around fields during Sabbats to ensure a prosperous and plentiful harvest. Those who didn’t understand what they were doing, saw this and thought they were odd and created stories to explain what they were doing. Eventually these stories became exaggerated and the Witches were then said to have been flying in the air on the brooms. None of this is true.

Miscellaneous
1) Do rituals have to be performed in the same spot every time?
No. Rituals can be performed in different areas. The purpose of casting a circle, not only protects us from outside influences, and the outside from what we are raising within the circle…but it is also a place of sacredness…our own sacred temple to the deities we have dedicated ourselves to (if you are Wiccan). We can cast this circle in any place we want and it will be dedicated to the deity and/or task we are taking. This area could be indoors or outdoors.

2) When are the festivals celebrated?
The Witches festivals are celebrated during the Equinoxes and Solstices as well as the mid-points between. These days can change depending on the year, as the time during which the Equinoxes and Solstices depends on the angle of the Sun and Moon.

3) What is a craft name and how do you get it?
A Craft name is a name a practitioner chooses to use in practice…say in circle to shift one’s consciousness to a magical level. Referring to yourself in this “Craft Name” allows you to shift into this alternate state and better perform your craft. However, it is not necessary to have a Craft name. This is optional.

4) How do I know if my chosen Craft name is right for me?
Only you can determine whether or not your Craft name is right for you. If you feel comfortable with your name, then it is right for you. If you have doubts about your name or don’t feel it’s right for you, then you need to explore within yourself and discover what your true name might be. But remember that a Craft name is not a necessity. If you don’t have one, it’s ok. A Craft name is not a must!

5) Do you know how to call up spirits and/or the dead?
Not really. I do call upon spirits to guide me in my workings, my life, and ask them for guidance through my life…but I don’t haphazardly call them up and allow them to freely float about my home or area in which I am working. That would be irresponsible. As for speaking to the dead, I believe the dead deserve their peace and let them be.

6) When I was young, I went to a séance and began speaking in another tongue. Does this have anything to do with my past life?
I don’t think this had anything really to do with your past life, as during a séance, one is trying to encounter another spirit or the dead, not tap into your past life.

7) Has being a witch in a past life helped me in my craft?
There is a possibility. Practicing in another life could have allowed your subconscious or your spirit to know much about practicing as you need…but don’t think that because you feel you have a natural talent, means that you don’t have to study. Study prepares you for the things you don’t know yet. It’s like learning lessons with holes in the lesson. You wouldn’t get the full benefit of the lesson, only bits and pieces and you wouldn’t understand fully what your studying.

8) My friend's dog growls when he goes by her room and she often sees shadows. Is this because of her practicing witchcraft?
Not necessarily. Dogs may sense more than basically spirits. Perhaps she’s hiding someone in her room, or there is a rodent in there that she doesn’t know about. As for shadows, they appear from anyone and anything. Remember that shadows are an absence of light. There has to be something there in order for a shadow to appear. If there is a shadows, chances are there is something there blocking the light, and therefore she would see it. Don’t automatically assume it’s a ghost or spirit

9) Most of the info I find is referenced to female gender. Is the craft different for men?
No. It seems to be geared towards female mostly because it’s mostly females who find this path. Many want to escape the subversive nature of organized religion that services only to suppress women and consider them inferior to men. However the Craft is the same for both genders. If you find something that peaks your interest and contains anything regarding “She”, just change the she to he, and adapts accordingly.

10) How can I prove to my friends that magic is real?
You don’t need to prove to anyone that magic is real. If they don’t believe, then that’s up to them. There isn’t anything you or I could say to them that would change their mind…as magic cannot be seen (despite what Hollywood shows us).

11) Who here has the most power? Where do you get your power from?
You know…it’s not about power, and who has the most. Many like to think that there are these “levels” to make one higher and more dominate than another. In Witchcraft, Witches are not interested in being more dominate and having others below us. We want nothing more than to improve the way our lives are led; making positive changes in our lives and the lives of others.

12) Do you practice black magick?
Magic is neutral in color. There is no black or white magic. The intention of the caster determines whether the magic will be beneficial or not (i.e. good or bad). Magic cannot be good or bad, as magic is energy, and will not be “color-coded” until someone makes use of the energy.

2 comments:

  1. Dragon`s Blood is used for increased power, purification, protection, consecration, and the development of strong ritual energy. If you are making incenses, having a separate mortar & pestle for the dragon's blood is highly recommended since it will stain the inside surface.
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