Raven Grimassi Interview Exploring The Magic Of The Ancients

Book: Raven Grimassi Interview Exploring The Magic Of The Ancients by Michael Night Sky

I personally feel that the origins of Witchcraft are Prehistoric and evidence of it is found in a combination of ancient literary works and historical references. The writings of Homer, Horace, Lucan and Ovid, just to name a few all refer to Witches and Witchcraft. By also factoring in the etymology of words translated as “Witch” and “Witchcraft” we can also uncover evidence that Witches existed in ancient times. What is important here are references to non-supernatural, magic-using beings. For example, one of the earliest words used to indicate Witchcraft is the Greek word pharmakis, which indicates dealings with the properties of plants. Our English word pharmacist is derived from the Greek word for Witchcraft.

Within ancient literary works, we find the themes of earlier oral tales; though such tales are largely fiction, they are based upon known elements of culture and society to make the story more believable. For example, the ancient tales about Medea, written by Lucan and Ovid, include magic, cauldrons, ritual circles, wands, and aid from deities and spirit forces. These elements fit into what we know of the religious and magical systems of the period, and so it is reasonably safe to assume these elements are reliable. The writings of Horace (in his Epodes) depict the “Witch” as a woman who calls upon the goddess Diana and works magic of an Astronomical nature. Lucan references the concept of a Triple Goddess associated with Witchcraft: Hecate, Diana, Persephone. (Raven Grimassi)

Buy Michael Night Sky's book: Raven Grimassi Interview Exploring The Magic Of The Ancients

Books in PDF format to read:

Paul Foster Case - An Introduction To The Study Of The Tarot
Tuesday Lobsang Rampa - The Cave Of The Ancients
John Dee - Grimoirium Imperium Or The Book Of The Old Spirits
Michael Night Sky - Raven Grimassi Interview Exploring The Magic Of The Ancients

A Short History Of The Salem Village Witchcraft Trials

Book: A Short History Of The Salem Village Witchcraft Trials by Martin Van Buren Perley

This short history meets that earnest desire; it gives the origin, growth, and death of the hideous monster; it gives dates, courts, and names of places, jurors, witnesses, and those hanged; it names and explains certain "men and things" that are concomitant to the trials, with which the reader nuiy not be conversant and which are necessary to the proper setting of the trials in one's mind; it compasses the salient features of witchcraft history, so that the story of the 1692 "delusion" may be garnered and entertainingly rehearsed.

The careful reader may discover, between the lines, in questions, in answers, and in the strange exhibitions, the real state of mind pervading all, which has been mildly characterized as a "delusion"; also he may be able to compare the Mosaic, the 1692, and the modern spirit manifestations, and advantageously determine for himself what is worth while in modern spiritualism, mindreading, clairvoyance, mesmerism, and the rest.

Though men of education, religion, titled dignity, and official station, of the professions and the 61ite, were responsible for the horrible cataatrophy, and in one instance or more forced the yeoman jurors to convict (who at the end signed recantations and expressed their grief), — religion and education must not be undervalued; a religious education will yield the highest type of manhood.

Download Martin Van Buren Perley's eBook: A Short History Of The Salem Village Witchcraft Trials

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Charles Kirkpatrick Sharpe - A Historical Account Of The Belief In Witchcraft In Scotland
John Campbell Colquhoun - An History Of Magic Witchcraft And Animal Magnetism
Martin Van Buren Perley - A Short History Of The Salem Village Witchcraft Trials Ocr Version
Martin Van Buren Perley - A Short History Of The Salem Village Witchcraft Trials

What Is A Wizard

(Anglo-Saxon) Includes both sexes; One who is born with naturally given talents, energies and great knowledge of Magikal practices. One who adheres to the pagan traditions. A wizard usually acts alone and is sometimes considered to be a semi-divine authority. Merlin would be a good example. However, this divine perception is often rejected and most often redirected to the proper deities by the wizard himself/herself.

Everyone is born with gifts and talents, however, a wizard is born with an inner instinct toward magikal practices. That person still has to make the 'choice' to use those gifts on the pagan path. A witch or wizard is making a choice to follow the principles and beliefs of the pagan path and exercise their given talents. They are not born with an all knowing wisdom. Just like everyone else; they have learning to do and wisdom to achieve.

Free eBooks (Can Be Downloaded):

Arthur Edward Waite - What Is Alchemy
Anonymous - What Is Wicca Article 2
Stephen Mcnallen - What Is Asatru
Lil Bow Wow - What Is A Warlock

Hierarchical Titles In Witchcraft

Titles are a little different than labels. Titles are labels that are earned. Not taken on to be impressive or to create a false sense of importance. So when it comes to saying you're a Shaman, Priest or High Priestess, make sure you have the right to take on those titles and you're not misrepresenting yourself to others. There are many Hierarchical labels, Wizard, Mage, Sage, Sorcerer/Sorceress and so on. Each tradition might take on a variation of these labels to represent different initiation levels within the tradition as well. Or to represent different roles and/or responsibilities.

The most common titles are:

* Initiate -
A person who has been invited to join a specific coven. Most traditions have varying levels of initiation. The first is always an invitation by the coven to join their group. Each level after is often based on learning, knowledge and demonstrating one's ability within the coven and beliefs of the practice.
* Junior Initiate -
A person who has been invited to join a specific coven and who has reached the second level of initiation within that coven.
* Senior Initiate -
A person who has been invited to join a specific coven and who has reached the third level of initiation within that coven.
* Priest/Priestess -
A person who has completed the training of a specific coven and has demonstrated their ability to teach and lead. Then has been initiated by another Priest or Priestess into that traditions Priesthood.


Here's another example in detail. Within my clan each level of membership defines an individuals role within the Clan and the Clan community at large. These titles are earned, they are not given out just by being a member of our organization.

* Member at Large -
A 1st level initiate. A practioner of the faith and member of the Clan. Some take on the label Celtic or Clan Witch to define this role within our community.
* Clan Administrator -
A 1st level initiate. A volunteer within the Clan who is assigned to administrative duties within the Clan.
* Clan Mentor -
A 2nd level apprenticing initiate, assigned to mentor other members of the Clan in a specific specialized area of study.
* Clan Sage
A 3rd level initiate dedicated to sharing the knowledge and wisdom of the faith and a specialized area of study such as divination, magik, or healing.
* Clan Shaman / Shamanka (Clan Leaders)
A 4th level initiate dedicated to sharing the knowledge and wisdom of the faith, proven gifts of divination, expert knowledge of Holistic Healing, with leadership capabilities of the Clan, and it's practices.
* Clan Elder
A 5th level initiate dedicated to providing services, leadership and teachings to all members within and outside the Clan. Who through action and deed has continually demonstrated a high level of ethics, knowledge and wisdom.

Free eBooks (Can Be Downloaded):

Michael Harrison - The Roots Of Witchcraft
George Lyman Kittredge - Notes On Witchcraft
Michael Bailey - Historical Dictionary Of Witchcraft

A Witchs Beverages And Brews Magick Potions Made Easy

Book: A Witchs Beverages And Brews Magick Potions Made Easy by Patricia Telesco

This book is dedicated to good friends, without whom there would be little worthy of toasting. Specifically, to Walker, I promise never to serve you anything other than Coors Light and Sam Adams again. Rowan, Kit, and Danya, you can
show this to him when he gets uppity. To Maggie, AJ, Wade, Diane, Betsy, Talyn, Corwyn, T’sa, the Guardians, and many others who never forget a cold beer and a warm smile. And finally, to all the wonderful festival coordinators everywhere, who deserve far more thanks for their time and efforts than any one dedication can manage. Without you, our community would be sorely wanting. Cheers!

Buy Patricia Telesco's book: A Witchs Beverages And Brews Magick Potions Made Easy

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Kathryn Paulsen - Witches Potions And Spells
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Patricia Telesco - A Witchs Beverages And Brews Magick Potions Made Easy

How To Create Your Clean Wicca Witchcraft Altar

The first step is to thoroughly clean the room that will contain your altar. It is best to mix sea salt into water. If you can't find any sea salt to use (any new age shop should have some), just use cleaning supplies you would normally use.

Scrub down the walls, ceiling and floor (if you don't have a rug). Make sure to pick up the clutter, and organize the room as best you can. The less clutter and mess, the easier it will be to control the energy that collects.

Now, you need to determine where North, South, East, and west are. You can use a compass, or ask someone who knows (if you don't). Once you figure them out, make sure to mark them using any small objects so that you won't forget. The reason you are doing this is because your altar will be setup-facing North because it is the direction of "Earth" and the primary energy you will connect to.

Next, you need to mark your circle. You can use white cord, or any small objects that are sacred to you. (such as candles or figurines) If you have enough room, try to mark the circle between 5 to 9 feet in diameter. (If you don't have enough space your circle can be smaller, but it may be a little more difficult to stay inside of the circle when doing your spell work.

When you mark the circle start in the East and move clockwise around the circle, finishing again in the East. Think of this is a "permanent" circles that you will "redraw" each time you do ritual or spell work. (You'll see how to redraw it later)

Now it is time to decorate your temple (the area around your circle). You can hang meaningful posters, fabric, and pictures. You can set up candles all around the room in any way that feels right for you. Try to set up a mystical feel, one that builds strong emotions for Magick work. The decorating can be simple or elaborate, whatever evokes strong feelings inside of you.

Next, you need to do an initial cleansing and purification of your space. So you must first prepare the cleansing water for this ritual. You will "charge" the water with positive and pure energy from your heart. Then you will use this water to cleanse your space.

This purification is very important to perform correctly or your space will be tainted - and it will never "feel" right. Your Magick will probably suffer as a result.

I can't stress how important the preparation of your cleansing water, and the actually cleansing and purifying of your space is. It so critical for you to actually see the rituals being done that I have included a DVD section on them in the full witchcraft Academy. Not only is there a detailed step-by-step guide for you to follow (with pictures and images), but you will actually see a demonstration of this powerful (and important) ritual.

Once you have fully cleansed and purified your space, it is time to set up your altar. Throughout this process, keep in mind that you can use any materials to set up an altar - but it is best to avoid using synthetic or metal materials. You can use a small wooden table that is between knee and chest high (you may even consider a circular table - which are popular for altars) The idea here is to maintain the natural energies of the Earth by using materials coming directly from the earth (if possible).

Set up your feminine diety elements to the left, and your mail diety elements to the right. (For Wiccans, Goddess elements to the left, and your God elements to the right)

If you want to see a full layout of elements and how to arrange them on your altar to heighten your connection to Magick - see the Home Academy to follow the exact steps. It also includes pictures of different altar setups and a video demonstration of setup and "consecration" of tools and other items on your altar. (This is a must to harmonize the energy within the tools with the energy of the altar and your sacred space)

Replace the markers you used to define the directions (North, South, East, and West) with white candles. In the DVDs you will also see how you can use colored candles that represent each of the elemental colors of the four directions. I like to place more candles around the border of the circle because I like to work my magic by candlelight.

Finally, repeat the purification ritual in the Home Academy for your altar and the circle. Then take a broom, or use your arm to clear out the space of the circle and push any negative or dark energy away.

Your first Witchcraft alter is born, congratulations! Now you can gradually increase it's power to attract the Magick energies you will need in your spell work by adding meaningful objects to it. There are many specific examples of altar setups, and examples of objects that you can add. Above all, these objects must be a reflection of you. The more of "you" that goes into your altar, the more power you will be able to draw from it - and the more protection it will offer as you do your Magick.

Free eBooks (Can Be Downloaded):

Herbert William Magoun - The Asuri Kalpa A Witchcraft Practice Of The Atharva Veda
George Lyman Kittredge - Notes On Witchcraft
Gordon Ireland - Faq On Wicca And Witchcraft And More
William Frederick Poole - Cotton Mather And Salem Witchcraft
Alexander Roberts - A Treatise Of Witchcraft

Midnight Circle A Commentary Of Azothoz A Book Of The Adversary

Book: Midnight Circle A Commentary Of Azothoz A Book Of The Adversary by Michael Ford

A Commentary of AZOTHOZ – A Book of the Adversary. Presented by The Night Ravener (Akhtya Seker Arimanius ~ Michael W. Ford)- A Brother in the Pact of Witchblood.

AZOTHOZ presents in poetic form the antinomian concept of separation from the natural order. This is clear throughout the various grimoires such as NOX UMBRA, BOOK OF CAIN, YATUK DINOIH, GOETIA (Luciferian Edition), and The TOAD RITE. Azothoz is actually a strong foundation from which these works arose. As written as lyric and poem form, the original praxis of the spiral force is not only directed inward, it is invoked in the circle of being. As some may have studied, Aleister Crowley[1] has placed significant focus on the Spiral Force, the traveling point of magickal energy. The same may be stated in the Antinomian practice of Left Hand Path Magick, it is the spiral force from below (darkness) which ascends through the body (self) towards the Luciferian Realms (Light).

Download Michael Ford's eBook: Midnight Circle A Commentary Of Azothoz A Book Of The Adversary

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John Dee - Grimoirium Imperium Or The Book Of The Old Spirits
Gregory Price Grieve - Imagining A Virtual Religious Community Neo Pagans On The Internet
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Michael Ford - Midnight Circle A Commentary Of Azothoz A Book Of The Adversary

Nocturnal Witchcraft Magick After Dark

Book: Nocturnal Witchcraft Magick After Dark by Konstantinos

I found this book very useful. Although it is not a Complete Course in magick, it does offer a unique perspective and approach I have not found in any other Wicca or witchcraft books. I agree that it may seem a little trendy to the casual observer, but honestly what mass produced books on Wicca aren't trendy these days? I thought the book was a refreshing change from the New Age/wicca books currently flooding the market.

But this book isn't for everyone. If a person has a deep love of the entity known as night then the book will resonate with them. Otherwise it is easy to dismiss it as a trendy goth work (although the author doesn't spend much time discussing that particular sub-culture). Personally as a non-Goth I appreciated the author's insights into the night. His approach is more about a naturally based identification with the night than a socially based one.

As far as modern reworkings of the old magicks go, I think Konstantinos has done a good job with this book. Of course it isn't a stand alone work, but it is a good primer for those who love the night and want to work with it in a deeper way.

Konstantinos is a genius is explaining this issue to a new level. I have read his books before and am by no means new to magic or the dark night, but he has outdone himself once again. I look forward to reading his next publication. I already knew most of what he was saying in the book, but it helped make it easier to clarify some of the things I was already doing. This is a love it or hate it book, so if you are not nocturnal...... you might wanna pass.

This book is what anyone who wants to know more about shadow magick should get. Even though there are books out there that deal with this topic, Nocturnal Witchcraft takes it steps further. Konstantinos excellently tells what exactly the shadows are to witches and how it can be used in everyday magick. Plus, he adds extra information(a listing of the deities, herbs used during certain rituals) to help the novice or experienced witch what they need in order to come closer to the shadows. He does not try to candy coat anything, just explains with detail and his own personal experiences with this magick.

I have already told many people about this book and I hope through this review and many others, that witches do purchase this book. Such a wonderful insight into the shadows...

Buy Konstantinos's book: Nocturnal Witchcraft Magick After Dark

Books in PDF format to read:

Paul Boyer - The Salem Witchcraft Papers Vol 3
Hesketh Bell - Obeah Witchcraft In The West Indies
Fransis Bragge - Witchcraft Farther Displayd
George Lyman Kittredge - Notes On Witchcraft Ocr Version

Modern Witchcraft On Wikipedia

To show and prove the misconception of witchcraft (which stemmed from Judaism and the Kaballah.) " ...historically notably in Early Modern Europe, where witchcraft came to be seen as a vast diabolical conspiracy against Christianity, and accusations of witchcraft led to large-scale witch-hunts..."

Witchcraft, in various historical, anthropological, religious and mythological contexts, is the alleged use of supernatural or magical powers. Witchcraft often refers to the alleged use of supernatural or magical powers in order to inflict harm or damage upon members of a community or their property. Other uses of the term distinguish between bad witchcraft and good witchcraft, with the latter often involving healing, perhaps remedying bad witchcraft. The concept of witchcraft is normally treated as a cultural ideology, a means of explaining human misfortune by blaming it either on a supernatural entity or a known person in the community.Pocs 1999, pp. 9?12. A witch (from Old English wicce f. / wicca m.) is a practitioner of witchcraft.

Belief in witchcraft, and by consequence witch-hunts, is found in many cultures worldwide, today mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa (e.g. in the witch smellers in Bantu culture), and historically notably in Early Modern Europe of the 14th to 18th century, where witchcraft came to be seen as a vast diabolical conspiracy against Christianity, and accusations of witchcraft led to large-scale witch-hunts, especially in Germanic Europe."Witchcraft". Encyclop?dia Britannica.

The "witch-cult hypothesis", a controversial theory that European witchcraft was a suppressed pagan religion, was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Since the mid-20th century, Witchcraft has become the self-designation of a branch of neopaganism, especially in the Wicca tradition following Gerald Gardner, who claimed a religious tradition of Witchcraft with pre-Christian roots.Adler, Margot (1979) Drawing Down the Moon: Witches, Druids, Goddess-Worshippers, and Other Pagans in America Today. Boston: Beacon Press. pp. 45?47, 84?5, 105.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Anonymous - Witchcraft Dictionary
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Witchcraft Tools

Be it English, Italian, French, German, Spanish, or Scottish, witches all seemed to use similar tools to do similar things. Perhaps more than that, it is this commonality, based for the most part on myth, clerical stereotypes and confessions extracted under torture that has served to leave the image of the witch so intensely on the Western imagination.

The lore of witches, for example, is widespread with stories of witches riding on broomsticks. This tradition appears to be ancient and transcripts of the 16th and 17th century witch trials are filled with references to it. One of them, Isobel Gowdie, a famous Scottish witch, went so far in her confession as to give her formula for making a broom, beanstalk or straw fly.

Equally famous and popular accessories were the long black hooded cloak and the bubbling cauldron. The cloak, though of ancient origin, seems to have had no special use except from helping to hide the witch’s anonymity, but the cauldron was a commonplace of making magic. From cauldron brews the witch might make lethal poisons and enchanted potions and ointments.

A 14th century French witch, Anne Marie de Georgel, admitted making a stew composed of poisonous herbs, parts of the dead bodies of men and animals. The herbs that are used in such wicked stews probably gathered when the moon had waned. When the moon was full, herbs were picked to produce wholesome effects. As an example, the green and silver leaves of mugwort, plucked at full moon, were carefully brewed and used in the use to improving clairvoyant power.

For their sabbats, or meetings, witches needed such items as candles. Also part of the sabbat ritual was a Magic Circle that had been traced on the ground by the tip of a magical knife. These circles were created to gather the witches’ special power.

To make a spell-casting drink a witch might use a household bottle or jug. In post World War II London several such jug were found buried in the foundation of old houses. They contained human hair entangled with metal nails, fingernail parings and pieces of hearth-shaped cloth pierced with pins.


Books You Might Enjoy:

Tarostar - The Witchs Spellcraft Revised
Louise Huebner - Witchcraft For All
Gerald Gardner - Witchcraft Today

Witchcraft Magic Spells

The word ‘witch’ is a part of the larger word witchcraft. ‘Witch’ means magic maker. So witchcraft is the art or craft of making magic. Modern witchcraft is now closer to wicca, which besides meaning ‘wise’ also means to ‘bend’. The word ‘ bend’ brings witchcraft closer to magic or spells.

Every human heart is filled with needs, dreams and desires. They may relate to health, wealth, love, marriage, revenge, fame, success, sex, litigation, rivalry, home, job, cars, tours and travels. The list can be as long and as varied as the human needs and desires are. We make every effort including witchcraft and spells to achieve our aims.

Witchcraft magic spells are an irresistible and dominating influence, which wields great power over the animate and even inanimate objects of the natural world. Spells are a potent tool of the witchcraft. Spells may be used in many forms. They can be used as love spells, lost love spells, sleep spells and so on.

Spells are a form of magic. They can empower you to achieve your aims and transform your life from one of deprivation to that of opulence and luxury, from ugliness to beauty and charm. witchcraft magic spells are cast by observing certain rituals like the ritual of the pentagram.

The first step of the ritual involves casting a circle and calling the quarters to perform the Qabalistic Cross. The second step is to inscribe the circle. In the third step you invoke the Archangels of the Four Quarters. The last step is to perform the Qabalistic Cross Again.

Spells can be good or evil. It is the responsibility of the practitioner of spells not to misuse them in a negative way, to harm others or do something against the will of God. He can, of course, use them in a positive way for his own good and also for the good of others. The practitioner of witchcraft magic spells cannot escape the responsibility of the consequences of his actions.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Jaroslav Nemec - Witchcraft And Medicine
Louise Huebner - Witchcraft For All
Simon - The Necronomicon Spellbook
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What Is The Magic Ritual In Witchcraft

In nearly all witchcraft traditions, the ritual is a type of ceremony or practise that is designed to invoke a magical God or Godess. The ritual itself, creates a link between the physical and spiritual worlds, calling on and harnessing the power of natural and spiritual energies.

Therefore, in our magical work, the ritual is used as a way of connecting with the spiritual world - to celebrate, ask for guidance, make requests or to simply give thanks.

It is important to keep in mind, that the ritual always follows a recognised sequence of steps each time (hence the term 'ritualistic'). It is vital that in parallel with following the steps of the ritual, you make a real conscious effort to engage your mind, body and soul; without which, you will simply be 'going through the motions' of ritual and not truly 'connecting'. This 'engagement' comes quite quickly, with a little practise and confidence. You'll be surprised how soon you can feel yourself connecting to the elements of nature and spirit entities.

In natural magic, the ritual is most often used to celebrate one of the main eight festivals (or sabbat's) of the year; such as 'Mabon' celebrating the second harvest, or 'Yule' celebrating the winter solstice. The main festival on the witchcraft calendar is Samhain (pronounced Sel-wain), which takes place at Halloween (31st October) and is generally known as the witches new year.

The magic ritual is not always linked to one of the main sabbats. Rituals are also done at other key times outside of the main festivals, particularly during a full moon, where the strong lunar energy is harnessed to conduct the full moon ritual.

During such rituals, the main purposes is to focus your intent and energy on your objective. Therefore, for any ritual, you must clearly and precisely state the objective, whether working alone or within a group. Within a group ritual, everyone must be equally clear and agree to the purpose of the ritual. It is worth mentioning at this point, that at first, many people can feel self conscious or embarrassed, particularly when working in a group setting. Don't worry about this - it is quite normal - just persevere with it and in no time at all, you will feel much more confident and at ease working rituals and begin to reap the rewards of natural magic.

In natural magic, rituals are often designed to make you think about what it is in your life that is holding you back as a person - it could be a job, another person, or simply having a lack of confidence in yourself. By releasing these issues that are holding you back through the ritual, you are creating space for newer and more positive aspects to come into your life. But it is well worth remembering, that what you release through this process may not just disappear overnight; very often a situation that is dis-empowering us, is just an indicator of a situation that has a root cause further back in our life.

Rituals are used to create a time and space where you can switch off from the everyday and become connected to the bigger universal picture. Once connected to theses energies, you are then able to develop a greater understanding of them. They also help you to develop a greater understanding of yourself and to bring change not only in a physical way. i.e. more money - better job etc., but perhaps more importantly, to bring change to your spiritual/inner self.

Natural Magic as a modern approach to witchcraft teaches our students how to access and harness these incredible natural energies that our ancestors did and teaches them, through practical easy lessons - how they too can harness these energies - empowering them to experience a completely new, enlightening and liberating dimension to their life and how they want to live it. Natural Magic has enabled them to tap into and release the previously dormant but incredible magic spirit that resides in all of us.

Could Natural Magic be what you've been looking for?

My name is Andrew Vaughan and I was introduced to Natural Magic by my wife nearly 10 years ago. My wife is one of the founder members of the Natural Magic group who practise in and around Sussex in the UK.

Her experience with Pagan, wicca and Natural Magic goes back nearly 25 years and with the help of other founder members, the group have produced a comprehensive course which teaches the Natural Magic approach.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Paul Huson - Mastering Witchcraft
Eliphas Levi - The Magic Ritual Of The Sanctum Regnum
Michael Harrison - The Roots Of Witchcraft

Origin Of Witchcraft

Witchcraft originated with the human civilization itself. The fear of the unknown and its imagined role in making our day to day life easy or difficult, created witches and their craft. Even though witchcraft as such was practiced mainly by experienced and old women, men also practiced it. Witches were the mediators between the human beings and the mysterious super powers such as spirits and angels. When a witch succeeded in resolving the apparently mysterious problem of someone, the performance was termed as magic, a process that could not be easily explained away through any logical analysis. The witches prayed to the higher powers or the spirits for help and guidance in resolving the problem by performing certain rituals and the whole process was called witchcraft.

Witchcraft, an earth based religion, was practiced in almost all the societies and cultures across the world according to local beliefs and traditions.

According to scholars of witchcraft, it was a belief system whose origin predates the majority of well known religions on this earth. It dates 40,000 years back to Paleolithic period. It has been evolving since then and its present form is quite different from what it was a thousand or five thousand years back. It did not probably have this name as well. Even different covens perform the witchcraft differently.
Archeological Discoveries

Archeological discoveries have revealed that people worshipped hunter god and fertility goddess during the Paleolithic period. This has been proved by the discovery of cave paintings which are estimated to be 30,000 years old. There is a painting that depicts a man with the head of a stag. In yet another painting, there is a pregnant woman standing in a circle with eleven other people. These relics go to prove that witchcraft is one of the oldest religions in the world. wiccan view of God and Goddess aspect of the supreme creative force predates thousands of years before Christianity.
A Craft of the Wise

In the ancient times, Witchcraft was known as ‘craft of the wise’ as the wise persons were those who followed the path of nature and were in tune with its forces, had the knowledge of herbs and medicines, gave wise counsel and were held in high esteem as Shamanic healers and leaders in the village and community. They understood that nature was superior to human beings and that human beings were simply one of the many parts of nature, both seen and unseen that combine to form one whole. As Chief Seattle said, “We do not own the earth; we are a part of it.” They understood that what we take from nature or use, we must return in kind to maintain the balance and equilibrium. The modern man has, however, forgotten this and has paid the price in form of many ecological and environmental disasters.
Modern day Witchcraft

Unfortunately for the past several hundred years the image of the witch has been associated with the evil, heathenism and unrighteousness due to prejudices created by the Christian church. Of late people have started understanding and practicing witchcraft as the true religion of God and Nature. There is renewed interest in witchcraft and witches profess to believe and practice the witchcraft with a sense of pride and confidence. The believers in New Age movement have understood witchcraft in its true perspective.

Modern witchcraft attracts believers from all walks of life and positions in society all over the world. They come together to understand the life, nature, evolution and mysteries of the universe through witchcraft. Witchcraft is the most democratic religion in the world. There is no rigid dogma and no hard-line regime except for a simple premise that we should not sow the seeds of evil if we want to reap the evil fruit multifold and secondly that we should not misuse the munificence of nature by disturbing its balance. Who would disagree?

Books You Might Enjoy:

Allen Greenfield - A True History Of Witchcraft
Louise Huebner - Witchcraft For All
Michael Bailey - Historical Dictionary Of Witchcraft
Mike Nichols - Eight Sabbats Of Witchcraft
Paul Huson - Mastering Witchcraft

Native American Witchcraft

Native American witchcraft was basically allied with the religious beliefs of the natives of the region. In fact religion and witchcraft were alike in many ways. Both the witchcraft and the religious beliefs held the nature sacred. Many of their symbols and ideas came from nature. Old religion was closer to the spirit of the Native American traditions and witchcraft.

Each region of Native America had its unique kind of witchcraft which used different kinds of amulets and charms. They had their own rituals and masks. The practitioners of witchcraft wore costumes specific to the region. They had their own carvings, totem poles and performed ceremonies according to the area where they lived. In spite of all these regional differences they all shared a sense of awareness and oneness with their land, plants and creatures of Native America.

They looked to their land for providing them the raw material for their magic and witchcraft. The material included herbs, stones, feathers and bones besides Articles for preparing the medicines, tools and other instruments such as charms, costumes and masks. The witches had deep faith in the power of nature and tried to maintain a sense of unity with its invisible forces.

The witches and medicine men used several methods and tools to diagnose the ailments of the patients such as crystal rocks and using their trembling hands in a state of trance. Some times they chanted some sacred hymns while diagnosing the diseases.

The shamans, usually women, served the community by performing ceremonies to cure several diseases and ward off evil influences over the weather and the harvest. Herbs used to be an important medium of curing the sick persons.

There is also a reference to a sacred pipe which was very important symbol of witchcraft. Sacred pipe symbolized the medicine wheel and all the four directions in the same space. Pinches of tobacco along with some grains were placed in the pipe which was also used for lamenting.
Owl had a very important place in the witch craft of those days. Owl was considered a symbol of bad luck. An owl sent by a witch could not be killed.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Gerald Gardner - Witchcraft Today
Louise Huebner - Witchcraft For All
Paul Huson - Mastering Witchcraft

How To Do Witchcraft

Witchcraft, a way of life

It must be understood that Wicca, paganism and witchcraft are clearly spiritual belief systems and a way of life. Believers in Witchcraft generally work in covens and each coven develops its own system of worship, rituals and practice in Witchcraft based on the experience and beliefs of the members. You can practice witchcraft on your own without joining any coven. Even covens are not large gatherings. Sometimes a coven exceeding a membership of 13 is considered too large and is further split into smaller groups or hives. This freedom obviously allows each individual to practice the witchcraft in his own way without subscribing to any rigid dogma or regime.

There are, therefore, no hard and fast rules about how to do witchcraft.

The first step towards learning How To Do Witchcraft is to meet people, read books and literature on witchcraft. This would enable you to understand the fundamentals of witchcraft as a religion.

The next step is to formulate your own independent opinion about witchcraft by listening to your intuition or gut feeling. If you feel uneasy with any group or belief system, immediately run away from it.

Individual Approach

The magic of witchcraft is felt by each individual in a different manner. To the blessed ones, the charge comes in a different manner. It is a moment when we feel the magic of the universe for the first time coursing through us. You experience the reality not its shadow.

When you find that there are striking similarities between what you already believe and what you find here, your confidence in your intuitive awareness shall be strengthened and you will easily communicate with others and understand them better. You need to take the following steps to learn more about how to do witchcraft’.

As already stated above, try to read every thing pertaining to witchcraft that you lay your hands upon. Your views about wicca and witchcraft will become clearer and stronger. When you have learnt as much as you can about the basic beliefs and tenets of witchcraft, you will be able to decide if the old ways are right for you.

Your own Book of Shadows

While you are studying witchcraft, you will begin to form associations and hopefully find some synergies within yourself. Keep a daily diary or a journal and keep noting your experiences. Write down why you think witchcraft is the right way of life for you. What does being a witch mean to you? What do you expect to achieve from this knowledge? Do you have any apprehensions about following this path? How do you feel about God and Goddess? What do you feel about the divine?

You should try to be absolutely honest in expressing your beliefs and ideas since the journal is your private book and no body is going to read it. The more you write the clearer you will become about your dreams. This journal will eventually evolve into your own book of shadows and assist you in defining and designing your own dedication and self-initiation ritual. This should be absolutely your own ritual. Design it the way you want to and in a way that will be most meaningful to you by following your own impulses. A dedication ritual implies exactly what it sounds to you like. You are dedicating yourself to the Witchcraft and taking a decision to live life closer to God and Nature. You are entering into a commitment to yourself and the Divine.
Follow your Instincts

There are no right or wrong questions or answers. Self questioning does not mean testing yourself, but looking within and evolving your own personal philosophy about witchcraft. This is the beauty of this religion. You are your own guide. You do not have to blindly or even strictly follow into the footsteps of others. Witchcraft is about self evolution. Your own journal will help you define and clarify your understanding of this path.

Most importantly you should listen to your inner voice which is the best counsel and will never distract you. If you find something that you read or hear is not right for you, leave it altogether.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Michael Bailey - Historical Dictionary Of Witchcraft
Mike Nichols - Eight Sabbats Of Witchcraft
Archmage Bob Andrews - Old Witchcraft Secrets
Paul Huson - Mastering Witchcraft
Michael Harrison - The Roots Of Witchcraft

Having A Spell With Witchcraft Proves Popular For Women

Witches and charismatic Christians are leading religious growth in Australia with many women turning to witchcraft or paganism as a reaction against the patriarchal nature of traditional Christianity.

Dr Philip Hughes of the Christian Research Association said the numbers of people participating in nature religions - mostly witchcraft and paganism - rose by 140 per cent between 1996 and 2001. Agnostics were on the rise too, he said.

For many, nature religions were seen as environmentally friendly.

But Dr Hughes said their numbers remained small, with fewer than 25,000 adherents in Australia.

"They are never going to be really numerous as it is largely a protest movement."

Leading witch Caroline Tully says witchcraft is a religion for the weak and oppressed, especially women.

"Actually, I'm surprised the guys haven't taken advantage because there are so many single women," she said.

"There aren't many men, and a lot of them aren't particularly appealing."

Dr Hughes said growth among Pentecostals (such as Sydney's Hillsong Church) had been remarkable, along with ethnically based religions. For example, the Coptic Orthodox Church grew by 83 per cent between 1991 and 2001.

"Immigrants head to the churches in large numbers, even if they did not attend in their homelands," Dr Hughes said. However, he said he discounted fears in some church circles of mass conversions to Islam.

"The number of converts is very small, probably in the realm of less than a thousand or two. Only 2.5 per cent of all Muslims in Australia were born of Australian-born parents and some of these would be grandchildren of immigrants."

About 25,000 Australians identified themselves as Buddhist at the last census. Dr Hughes said young people liked its simplicity and ethics.

He said changes in immigration meant religion was now more diverse. Between 1996 and 2001, Buddhist numbers grew by 79 per cent, Hindus by 42 per cent and Muslims 40 per cent.

But all these groups together were still less than 5 per cent of the population.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Eliphas Levi - The Conjuration Of The Four Elements
John Ankerberg - Satanism And Witchcraft The Occult And The West Part Ii
Aj Drew - Wicca Spellcraft For Men

Beginner Witchcraft

Creating an aura of mystery and magic, witchcraft has always been a fascinating and mesmerising concept for all at all periods of time. Spanning ages and centuries, throughout history, witchcraft has been limited to and practised by certain people, men and women, who have also been looked at with awe, fear, and sometimes, hatred. However, even today, Beginner Witchcraft is sought by people, wishing to engage themselves and learn the mysterious discipline.

So what does Beginner Witchcraft mean?

Beginner Witchcraft refers to the knowledge that aspiring witches learn and understand to gain an insight into the basics and fundamentals of the religion and practice of witchcraft.

Contrary to the widespread belief that Beginner Witchcraft includes learning advanced magical spells, reading loads of Witchcraft And Wicca books and resources, and many others, Beginner Witchcraft, in reality, includes a careful orientation of our bodies and minds towards the elemental forces of nature.

To enable aspiring witches, numerous books and resources are available which will help them to learn about Beginner Witchcraft. True, reading about the fundamentals of witchcraft from books and other resources is indeed essential; however, equally or even more important is gaining an insight into the workings of nature.

Tuning our minds and observing the minute details of nature, besides confirming to certain fundamental and highly essential rules helps in paving the path towards Beginner Witchcraft. Research states that observing the different patterns of moon, such as full moon, waxing phase, wanning moon phase, and many more. Even different seasons, life patterns of insects, and plants, besides others should also be observed to get closer to the elements of nature and their vibrations.

Meditation is also considered to be an important part of Beginner Witchcraft. Candles and incenses also help in creating an aura of peacefulness and sacredness. Setting aside a place for meditating, making herbal gardens, learning to distinguish different types of herbs and plants, and related activities, help in gaining the basics of witchcraft.

Beginner Witchcraft involves reading, observing minute details of nature, and tuning our minds and bodies to the changes occurring around us. It even includes learning of basic spells, divination, and others, but should always be learnt from experienced and learned witches.

A concoction of mystery and magic, Beginner Witchcraft is highly interesting and fascinating to learn and practice.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Allen Greenfield - A True History Of Witchcraft
Michael Harrison - The Roots Of Witchcraft
Paul Huson - Mastering Witchcraft
Louise Huebner - Witchcraft For All
Gerald Gardner - Witchcraft Today

Miracle Deliverance Power Of Pagan Names And Christian Names

Book: Miracle Deliverance Power Of Pagan Names And Christian Names by Pat Holliday

My friend from Nigeria, Pastor-Evangelist Michael T. Adenitire writes: God hates idolatry and if it remains unresolved, the enemy has a legal right to accuse and oppress. Combing the biblical principle of the visitation of the sins of the fathers on the children with clinical data from deliverance sessions, we observe a connection between genealogical sin and oppression in generations. Satan’s goal is to perpetuate his strongholds.

The signification of names according to Pastor Adenitire and their significance to their stature in the Bible. “No longer shall your name be called Abram. But your name shall be called Abraham; For I will make you the father of multitude of nations,” (Genesis 17:5). God wanted to expand his coast and territory. This shows that names have effect on a persons’ life. Then he explains how Satan adopts the same method of distributing evil from generation to generation.

Download Pat Holliday's eBook: Miracle Deliverance Power Of Pagan Names And Christian Names

Free e-books (can be downloaded):

Pat Holliday - Miracle Deliverance New World Pagan Idolatry
Pat Holliday - Miracle Deliverance Power Of Pagan Names And Christian Names

A History Of Witchcraft In England From 1558 To1718

Book: A History Of Witchcraft In England From 1558 To1718 by Wallace Notestein

In its original form this essay was the dissertation submitted for a doctorate in philosophy conferred by Yale University in 1908. When first projected it was the writer's purpose to take up the subject of English witchcraft under certain general political and social aspects. It was not long, however, before he began to feel that preliminary to such a treatment there was necessary a chronological survey of the Witch Trials. Those strange and tragic affairs were so closely involved with the politics, literature, and life of the seventeenth century that one is surprised to find how few of them have received accurate or complete record in history. It may be said, in fact, that few subjects have gathered about themselves so large concretions of misinformation as English witchcraft. This is largely, of course, because so little attention has been given to it by serious students of history. The mistakes and misunderstandings of contemporary writers and of the local historians have been handed down from county history to county history until many of them have crept into general works. For this reason it was determined to attempt a chronological treatment which would give a narrative history of the more significant trials along With Some Account of the progress of opinion. This plan has been adhered to somewhat strictly, sometimes not without regret upon the part of the writer. It is his hope later in a series of articles to deal with some of the more general phases of the subject, with such topics as the use of torture, the part of the physicians, the contagious nature of the witch alarms, the relation of Puritanism to persecution, the supposed influence of the Royal Society, the general causes for the gradual decline of the belief, and other like questions. It will be seen in the course of the narrative that some of these matters have been touched upon.

Download Wallace Notestein's eBook: A History Of Witchcraft In England From 1558 To1718

Books in PDF format to read:

Anonymous - History Of Witchcraft Vol 1 Of 7
Nathan Beier - Spiritualism As Modern Witchcraft In New England From 1848 To 1866
Julia Phillips - History Of Wicca In England
Wallace Notestein - A History Of Witchcraft In England From 1558 To1718

The Star Of Life A Historical And Spiritual History Of The Pentagram

Book review: The Star Of Life A Historical And Spiritual History Of The Pentagram by Sharynne Nicmacha

The Pentacle, the symbol of Witchcraft, is a bold and fascinating statement about our place in the Universe. The pentagram represents an ancient concept that can be found in philosophical thought in both East and West. Although over 8,000 years old, the image of the pentagram is applicable in our modern world. The pentagram tells us that we have the ability to bring Spirit to Earth; this applies to every area of practical day-to-day living, as well as spiritual thought. The ability of bringing Spirit to Earth is what makes us whole.

Imagine the perfect apple, ripe and bursting with life. Sliced in half, it reveals a beautiful five-point symmetry-a star formed by the seeds inside. In fact, each of these five seeds may be seen to contain a symbolism of its own mirroring the spiritual aspects of this universal symbol: idea, sustenance, life, secret knowledge and the hidden mysteries within the earth. Why has this beautiful and potent emblem, the fivepointed star or pentagram, become such a misunderstood and stigmatized symbol in these times of reemerging enlightenment?

Download Sharynne Nicmacha's eBook: The Star Of Life A Historical And Spiritual History Of The Pentagram
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