A classic scent for attracting love, lust and money. This is great again to use in a oil burner or on candles for spellcraft. When smelling this great earthy scent visualize money or love coming to you. Visualize your purse overflowing with cash and paying all bills on time.
It is also great to anoint green candles and sit meditating on cash and wealth coming your way!
You can safely use a tiny bit on the skin but it can be sticky.
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
An Anti-Debt Spell
Write the following on 7 pieces of toilet paper....
"Debts - Misfortune - Bad Luck - Sadness - Poverty"
On the first Saturday of the waning moon... (The first Saturday after the Full Moon)
Flush the paper down the toilet...
Say 9 times:
"As this paper is flushed away so too are the things written on it banished from my life today! An it harm none!"
Do this everyday until the new moon!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Sabbats in Australia
Yule: approx. June 21 (mid-Winter Solstice)
Imbolc: August 1 (beginning of Spring)
Ostara: approx. September 21 (Spring Equinox)
Beltaine: November 1 (beginning of Summer)
Litha: approx. December 21 (mid-Summer Solstice)
Lughnassadh: February 1 (beginning of Autumn)
Mabon: approx. March 21 (Autumn Equinox)
Samhain: May 1 (beginning of Winter)
Imbolc: August 1 (beginning of Spring)
Ostara: approx. September 21 (Spring Equinox)
Beltaine: November 1 (beginning of Summer)
Litha: approx. December 21 (mid-Summer Solstice)
Lughnassadh: February 1 (beginning of Autumn)
Mabon: approx. March 21 (Autumn Equinox)
Samhain: May 1 (beginning of Winter)
The History of Halloween
Halloween's origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in).
The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter.
To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities.
During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other's fortunes. When the celebration was over, they re-lit their hearth fires, which they had extinguished earlier that evening, from the sacred bonfire to help protect them during the coming winter.
By A.D. 43, Romans had conquered the majority of Celtic territory. In the course of the four hundred years that they ruled the Celtic lands, two festivals of Roman origin were combined with the traditional Celtic celebration of Samhain.
The first was Feralia, a day in late October when the Romans traditionally commemorated the passing of the dead. The second was a day to honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple and the incorporation of this celebration into Samhain probably explains the tradition of "bobbing" for apples that is practiced today on Halloween.
By the 800s, the influence of Christianity had spread into Celtic lands. In the seventh century, Pope Boniface IV designated November 1 All Saints' Day, a time to honor saints and martyrs. It is widely believed today that the pope was attempting to replace the Celtic festival of the dead with a related, but church-sanctioned holiday. The celebration was also called All-hallows or All-hallowmas (from Middle English Alholowmesse meaning All Saints' Day) and the night before it, the night of Samhain, began to be called All-hallows Eve and, eventually, Halloween. Even later, in A.D. 1000, the church would make November 2 All Souls' Day, a day to honor the dead. It was celebrated similarly to Samhain, with big bonfires, parades, and dressing up in costumes as saints, angels, and devils. Together, the three celebrations, the eve of All Saints', All Saints', and All Souls', were called Hallowmas.
The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter.
To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities.
During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other's fortunes. When the celebration was over, they re-lit their hearth fires, which they had extinguished earlier that evening, from the sacred bonfire to help protect them during the coming winter.
By A.D. 43, Romans had conquered the majority of Celtic territory. In the course of the four hundred years that they ruled the Celtic lands, two festivals of Roman origin were combined with the traditional Celtic celebration of Samhain.
The first was Feralia, a day in late October when the Romans traditionally commemorated the passing of the dead. The second was a day to honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple and the incorporation of this celebration into Samhain probably explains the tradition of "bobbing" for apples that is practiced today on Halloween.
By the 800s, the influence of Christianity had spread into Celtic lands. In the seventh century, Pope Boniface IV designated November 1 All Saints' Day, a time to honor saints and martyrs. It is widely believed today that the pope was attempting to replace the Celtic festival of the dead with a related, but church-sanctioned holiday. The celebration was also called All-hallows or All-hallowmas (from Middle English Alholowmesse meaning All Saints' Day) and the night before it, the night of Samhain, began to be called All-hallows Eve and, eventually, Halloween. Even later, in A.D. 1000, the church would make November 2 All Souls' Day, a day to honor the dead. It was celebrated similarly to Samhain, with big bonfires, parades, and dressing up in costumes as saints, angels, and devils. Together, the three celebrations, the eve of All Saints', All Saints', and All Souls', were called Hallowmas.
Information Source: History.com
Sunday, June 10, 2007
How To Create Your Wicca Witchcraft Altar
The first step to create your wicca altar 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” circle 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.
Rose has been practicing different forms of Witchcraft for over 27 years. For more information on wiccan witchcraft altars visit her site The Ask Rose Ariadne Witchcraft Site
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rose_Ariadne
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” circle 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.
Rose has been practicing different forms of Witchcraft for over 27 years. For more information on wiccan witchcraft altars visit her site The Ask Rose Ariadne Witchcraft Site
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rose_Ariadne
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Why is Wicca Witchcraft So Popular?
Wicca witchcraft is said to be the fastest growing religion amongst high school and college students in America. It is also now practiced by people in many different walks of life, including professionals like lawyers and teachers.
Wiccans practice what they call White magic, which they believe is ‘good’ and differs from the ‘bad’ black magic.
The motivation behind getting involved in wicca is not sinister in any way. The people involved are wanting to tap into the good “forces” in nature, and direct them in a positive manner. They are seeking the ‘power’ to be able to perform good magic, and often times to also find a popular group to belong to. The number of witches covens is increasing daily. Wiccans promote good moral values like honesty.
Books like the Harry Potter series, and TV shows life “Buffy”, “Sabrina the teenage Witch”, “Charmed” and other similar shows have skyrocketed the popularity of wicca witchcraft, in a way that is unprecedented.
The term witch, no longer seems to be associated with an ugly old woman wearing black and riding on a broomstick, it has taken on the guise of sexy young females, or young teenage boys.
Wiccans are not evil people seeking to destroy the world, but unfortunately they are oblivious to the true nature of the powers they are tapping into.
Wiccans don’t believe in the devil, or demons and this is the greatest tragedy. They don’t realise that the source of the magic they are delving into is not from “nature” but from the sinister master of the evil invisible world. Deceiving spirits of demons are hard at work, luring the unknowing into a destructive cycle that can devastate their lives. It is not until people are heavily involved in wicca that they find they start to encounter “bad spirits”, “psychic attacks”, “bad energies” and “harmful voices” in their heads among other things. At this stage they need to start practicing what they call “protection magic”.
There really are supernatural forces of good and evil at play behind the scenes in this world and the Bible reveals to us what these forces are. The Bible foretells that in the end times there will be many occult manifestations and that deceiving spirits will be rife and will seek to deceive even the elect.
We need to be really careful not to open up the wrong spiritual gateways. We need to seek the truth. Wiccans believe in reincarnation, but the Bible says, Hebrews 9:27 “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Wiccans don’t believe in the devil, and yet the Bible clearly shows that he exists. Probably the most tragic thing though is that wiccans don’t think they need to have a saviour, but the Bible teaches that Jesus Christ gave His life so that all could be forgiven, if they accept Him as Lord of their lives. 1 Timothy 4:10 “For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.”
The devil is alive and well in this world and out to harm as many of God’s blessed creations as he can. If you are involved in wicca, or know someone who is, you would be well advised to have a look at both sides of the equation, and at least consider what the Bible reveals about occult practices and the source of their power.
For more information on this topics please visit http://www.wiccawitchcraft.net/ Debra Lohrere is the author of Peace, Prophecy and False Fire http://www.lulu.com/content/333221 Her Homepage is http://debra.lohrere.com/home.shtml
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debra_Lohrere
Wiccans practice what they call White magic, which they believe is ‘good’ and differs from the ‘bad’ black magic.
The motivation behind getting involved in wicca is not sinister in any way. The people involved are wanting to tap into the good “forces” in nature, and direct them in a positive manner. They are seeking the ‘power’ to be able to perform good magic, and often times to also find a popular group to belong to. The number of witches covens is increasing daily. Wiccans promote good moral values like honesty.
Books like the Harry Potter series, and TV shows life “Buffy”, “Sabrina the teenage Witch”, “Charmed” and other similar shows have skyrocketed the popularity of wicca witchcraft, in a way that is unprecedented.
The term witch, no longer seems to be associated with an ugly old woman wearing black and riding on a broomstick, it has taken on the guise of sexy young females, or young teenage boys.
Wiccans are not evil people seeking to destroy the world, but unfortunately they are oblivious to the true nature of the powers they are tapping into.
Wiccans don’t believe in the devil, or demons and this is the greatest tragedy. They don’t realise that the source of the magic they are delving into is not from “nature” but from the sinister master of the evil invisible world. Deceiving spirits of demons are hard at work, luring the unknowing into a destructive cycle that can devastate their lives. It is not until people are heavily involved in wicca that they find they start to encounter “bad spirits”, “psychic attacks”, “bad energies” and “harmful voices” in their heads among other things. At this stage they need to start practicing what they call “protection magic”.
There really are supernatural forces of good and evil at play behind the scenes in this world and the Bible reveals to us what these forces are. The Bible foretells that in the end times there will be many occult manifestations and that deceiving spirits will be rife and will seek to deceive even the elect.
We need to be really careful not to open up the wrong spiritual gateways. We need to seek the truth. Wiccans believe in reincarnation, but the Bible says, Hebrews 9:27 “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” Wiccans don’t believe in the devil, and yet the Bible clearly shows that he exists. Probably the most tragic thing though is that wiccans don’t think they need to have a saviour, but the Bible teaches that Jesus Christ gave His life so that all could be forgiven, if they accept Him as Lord of their lives. 1 Timothy 4:10 “For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.”
The devil is alive and well in this world and out to harm as many of God’s blessed creations as he can. If you are involved in wicca, or know someone who is, you would be well advised to have a look at both sides of the equation, and at least consider what the Bible reveals about occult practices and the source of their power.
For more information on this topics please visit http://www.wiccawitchcraft.net/ Debra Lohrere is the author of Peace, Prophecy and False Fire http://www.lulu.com/content/333221 Her Homepage is http://debra.lohrere.com/home.shtml
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debra_Lohrere
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Who Knows The Types of Candles In Wicca?
The types of candles in Wicca depend on the reason for burning the candle. Votive candles are one of the types of candles in Wicca, but these are mainly used for light. They are short and stubby and are usually placed in a cup or other small container. Votive candles also take up less space so that more of them can be placed on a Wicca altar. There are many places where you can buy the types of candles in Wicca at wholesale prices. These retailers sell a variety of other Wicca supplies as well.
For use in Wicca, taper candles are another of the types of candles. In Wicca, these candles are long and slender and the wax drippings are allowed to collect in a pan or a plate placed under the candle. When you buy wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies, you can also buy the special pans you need for the taper candles. The wax drippings are read in a manner very similar to that of reading tealeaves. If a reading is not required, taper candles are often placed in elegant candleholders. At the wholesale store, you can buy them in various heights and diameters.
Jar candles are one of the types of candles in Wicca that have a special purpose. They are made by pouring colored wax into a clear jar or by pouring clear wax into a colored jar, Those involved in Wicca can get both the wax and the jars at retailers that sell wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies. These candles are anointed, although only the top of the candle receives the anointing.
There are also specialty candles used in Wicca. These include types of candles in Wicca dedicated to a Christian Saint or Voodoo Loa. These candles, which are available at wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies stores, have designs and signatures printed on the outside of the glass container. They are jar candles and each different candle comes with instructions about how to use it in Wicca. Another of the types of candles used in Wicca are candles formed in the shape of a cross. They come in black, white, green and red and they are mainly used as altar pieces.
If you want to see all the different types of candles in Wicca, a trip to a retailer selling wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies would be very informative. You will see male and female figurine candles that are burned either face to face or back to back. Burning this type of candle in Wicca face to face is intended to form a bond, but burning it back to back denotes banishment. Seven Day Knob candles are another of the types of candles in Wicca. You burn one knob on each of seven days to cast a spell with this candle.
To find out more about Candles visit Peter's Website Your Hot Candles at http://www.yourhotcandles.com/ and find out about Custom Candles and more, including Yankee Candles, Floating Candles and Scented Candles
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Clark
For use in Wicca, taper candles are another of the types of candles. In Wicca, these candles are long and slender and the wax drippings are allowed to collect in a pan or a plate placed under the candle. When you buy wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies, you can also buy the special pans you need for the taper candles. The wax drippings are read in a manner very similar to that of reading tealeaves. If a reading is not required, taper candles are often placed in elegant candleholders. At the wholesale store, you can buy them in various heights and diameters.
Jar candles are one of the types of candles in Wicca that have a special purpose. They are made by pouring colored wax into a clear jar or by pouring clear wax into a colored jar, Those involved in Wicca can get both the wax and the jars at retailers that sell wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies. These candles are anointed, although only the top of the candle receives the anointing.
There are also specialty candles used in Wicca. These include types of candles in Wicca dedicated to a Christian Saint or Voodoo Loa. These candles, which are available at wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies stores, have designs and signatures printed on the outside of the glass container. They are jar candles and each different candle comes with instructions about how to use it in Wicca. Another of the types of candles used in Wicca are candles formed in the shape of a cross. They come in black, white, green and red and they are mainly used as altar pieces.
If you want to see all the different types of candles in Wicca, a trip to a retailer selling wholesale Wiccan candles and supplies would be very informative. You will see male and female figurine candles that are burned either face to face or back to back. Burning this type of candle in Wicca face to face is intended to form a bond, but burning it back to back denotes banishment. Seven Day Knob candles are another of the types of candles in Wicca. You burn one knob on each of seven days to cast a spell with this candle.
To find out more about Candles visit Peter's Website Your Hot Candles at http://www.yourhotcandles.com/ and find out about Custom Candles and more, including Yankee Candles, Floating Candles and Scented Candles
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Clark
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
The History of Wicca – Where Did The Craft Originate
The history of Wicca or “The Craft” is complex but traditional Wicca is rooted in the so called "British Mystery Traditions", for example the Picts, who existed before the rise of Celtic consciousness, the Celts, and some Celtic Druidism.
Wicca predates Christianity by about 28 000 years.
A variety of archaeological discoveries, reveal that the history of Wicca can be traced as far back as the Paleolithic peoples who worshipped a Hunter God and a Fertility Goddess. Cave paintings, that are dated at around 30,000 years old, depict a man with the head of a stag, and a pregnant woman standing in a circle with eleven other people.
Modern American Wicca has its roots in British Wicca, brought to the United States in the late 1950's by English and American initiates of Gardnerian, Alexandrian and Celtic Wicca. These are different forms of Wiccan tradition. All of these cultures form part and parcel of the history of Wicca.
The ancient Greek Mysteries of Eleusis, Italian Mysteries of Rome, Etruria and the general countryside, Mysteries of Egypt and Persia before Islam, and various Babylonian, Assyrian and other mid-eastern Mysteries also find a place in the history of Wicca and its beliefs and traditional practices. Perhaps the best way to describe Wicca is to call it a modern religion, based on ancient witchcraft traditions. But do bear in mind that not all those who practice witchcraft today are Wiccas.
Wicca is a both a belief system and a way of life. Over the years information about how Wiccan ancestors lived and worshipped has been lost due to actions of the medieval church. However, modern Wiccas have tried to reconstruct the history of Wicca in an effort to lay the foundation for their practices.
During ancient times Wicca was called "The Craft of the Wise". This name was derived from the fact that most Wiccas aligned themselves with the forces of nature. They also had knowledge of herbs and medicines, gave council and were important in the village and community as Shamanic healers and leaders. The history of Wicca indicates that Wiccas once had a prized place in society which is quite a contrast to how they are viewed today.
Ancient Wiccas felt that man was not superior to nature, the earth and its creatures. Instead they were only one aspect of the world. The idea of sustainable development to maintain balance and equilibrium was central to the belief systems of the ancient Wicca. The history of Wicca is a far cry from the way that man views the earth today.
In the last several hundred years, witchcraft and witches have been incorrectly labeled as evil and unrighteous. Where do these ideas that form so much a part of the history of Wicca originate? Some Wiccas believe that the medieval church of the 15th through 18th centuries created these myths.
This was done in an effort to covert people to Christianity. The history of Wicca contains many stories of the persecution of witches based on so called “evil” practices.
Another theory about the history of Wicca is that as medical science became more prominent in society those who did these initial studies did not understand female physiology, especially menstruation. This “mystery” seemed to fit in with the churches agenda in labeling healers as evil heathens and placing power and respect in the hands of male physicians.
Many of these myths and superstitions have survived in modern times giving The Craft a bad name. While Wicca is essentially witchcraft, those who practice it usually do not refer to it as such because of these negative connotations. The history of Wicca is important since it is the persecution of those who practiced it that has led to its current ethic of “religious freedom first”.
http://www.pier55.com offers some of the best HOW-To and FAQS concerning all areas of interest.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_E_Johnson
Wicca predates Christianity by about 28 000 years.
A variety of archaeological discoveries, reveal that the history of Wicca can be traced as far back as the Paleolithic peoples who worshipped a Hunter God and a Fertility Goddess. Cave paintings, that are dated at around 30,000 years old, depict a man with the head of a stag, and a pregnant woman standing in a circle with eleven other people.
Modern American Wicca has its roots in British Wicca, brought to the United States in the late 1950's by English and American initiates of Gardnerian, Alexandrian and Celtic Wicca. These are different forms of Wiccan tradition. All of these cultures form part and parcel of the history of Wicca.
The ancient Greek Mysteries of Eleusis, Italian Mysteries of Rome, Etruria and the general countryside, Mysteries of Egypt and Persia before Islam, and various Babylonian, Assyrian and other mid-eastern Mysteries also find a place in the history of Wicca and its beliefs and traditional practices. Perhaps the best way to describe Wicca is to call it a modern religion, based on ancient witchcraft traditions. But do bear in mind that not all those who practice witchcraft today are Wiccas.
Wicca is a both a belief system and a way of life. Over the years information about how Wiccan ancestors lived and worshipped has been lost due to actions of the medieval church. However, modern Wiccas have tried to reconstruct the history of Wicca in an effort to lay the foundation for their practices.
During ancient times Wicca was called "The Craft of the Wise". This name was derived from the fact that most Wiccas aligned themselves with the forces of nature. They also had knowledge of herbs and medicines, gave council and were important in the village and community as Shamanic healers and leaders. The history of Wicca indicates that Wiccas once had a prized place in society which is quite a contrast to how they are viewed today.
Ancient Wiccas felt that man was not superior to nature, the earth and its creatures. Instead they were only one aspect of the world. The idea of sustainable development to maintain balance and equilibrium was central to the belief systems of the ancient Wicca. The history of Wicca is a far cry from the way that man views the earth today.
In the last several hundred years, witchcraft and witches have been incorrectly labeled as evil and unrighteous. Where do these ideas that form so much a part of the history of Wicca originate? Some Wiccas believe that the medieval church of the 15th through 18th centuries created these myths.
This was done in an effort to covert people to Christianity. The history of Wicca contains many stories of the persecution of witches based on so called “evil” practices.
Another theory about the history of Wicca is that as medical science became more prominent in society those who did these initial studies did not understand female physiology, especially menstruation. This “mystery” seemed to fit in with the churches agenda in labeling healers as evil heathens and placing power and respect in the hands of male physicians.
Many of these myths and superstitions have survived in modern times giving The Craft a bad name. While Wicca is essentially witchcraft, those who practice it usually do not refer to it as such because of these negative connotations. The history of Wicca is important since it is the persecution of those who practiced it that has led to its current ethic of “religious freedom first”.
http://www.pier55.com offers some of the best HOW-To and FAQS concerning all areas of interest.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_E_Johnson
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Basic Meditation Techniques - Section 3
by Bill Witt, May 1987
Section Three: Meditation in Your Daily Life
Another way in which meditation is used is in the development of psychic powers.
In this third and final section we will discuss some ways in which you may use what you've learned, in your daily life.
The most obvious use of the techniques you have learned, is relaxation. During the course of the day, many of us have moments when the pressure becomes almost to much. When this happens, we often can't deal with other people or projects the way we should. The breathing exercises you learned in section two can help at these times.
It doesn't require alot of time or absolute quiet as does your meditation practice. All that is required is about five minutes and relative privacy. At these times, begin doing your rhythmic breathing and visualize a place which is calm and refreshing. This simple and quick exercise, can work wonders to help you regain control in a hectic situation.
Another way in which meditation is used is in the development of psychic powers. There are several books on the subject, listed at the end of this section. Most of those who teach about the use and development of these abilities, agree that meditation is necessary to any such study. Again the reason for this is that meditation allows you to reach an altered state of conciousness. In this altered state your mind is more open to such phenomenon as telepathy. If you should decide to persue studies in this direction, please seek the help of someone trained in these areas.
One final use I will suggest is visualization. Meditation can be used as a tool for problem solving. While in a meditative state of mind, you have the ability to take any situation and manipulate it. By that I mean you can mentally play the out the situation using several different solutions. Then, you can pick the one which seems to best solve the problem. While the use of meditation can help you deal with problem solving more effectively, it is not infallible. All it can do is allow you to think more clearly and concisely about the problem at hand.
Well that concludes this study on meditation. I hope you have gained something usefull from this course. It has been by no means, a full explanation of the subject. There is much more to learn than could be covered in this short series and It is my hope that you will want to continue your studies into this fascinating and useful skill.
Selected Bibliography:
Miriam Simos (Starhawk)
The Spiral Dance
New York
Harper & Row; 1979
W.E. Butler
How To Read The Aura, Practice Psycometry, Telepathy and Clairvoyance
New York
Destiny Books; 1978
Melita Denning & Osborne Phillips
The Development of Psychic Powers
St. Paul, MN
Llewellyn Publications; 1985
Section Three: Meditation in Your Daily Life
Another way in which meditation is used is in the development of psychic powers.
In this third and final section we will discuss some ways in which you may use what you've learned, in your daily life.
The most obvious use of the techniques you have learned, is relaxation. During the course of the day, many of us have moments when the pressure becomes almost to much. When this happens, we often can't deal with other people or projects the way we should. The breathing exercises you learned in section two can help at these times.
It doesn't require alot of time or absolute quiet as does your meditation practice. All that is required is about five minutes and relative privacy. At these times, begin doing your rhythmic breathing and visualize a place which is calm and refreshing. This simple and quick exercise, can work wonders to help you regain control in a hectic situation.
Another way in which meditation is used is in the development of psychic powers. There are several books on the subject, listed at the end of this section. Most of those who teach about the use and development of these abilities, agree that meditation is necessary to any such study. Again the reason for this is that meditation allows you to reach an altered state of conciousness. In this altered state your mind is more open to such phenomenon as telepathy. If you should decide to persue studies in this direction, please seek the help of someone trained in these areas.
One final use I will suggest is visualization. Meditation can be used as a tool for problem solving. While in a meditative state of mind, you have the ability to take any situation and manipulate it. By that I mean you can mentally play the out the situation using several different solutions. Then, you can pick the one which seems to best solve the problem. While the use of meditation can help you deal with problem solving more effectively, it is not infallible. All it can do is allow you to think more clearly and concisely about the problem at hand.
Well that concludes this study on meditation. I hope you have gained something usefull from this course. It has been by no means, a full explanation of the subject. There is much more to learn than could be covered in this short series and It is my hope that you will want to continue your studies into this fascinating and useful skill.
Selected Bibliography:
Miriam Simos (Starhawk)
The Spiral Dance
New York
Harper & Row; 1979
W.E. Butler
How To Read The Aura, Practice Psycometry, Telepathy and Clairvoyance
New York
Destiny Books; 1978
Melita Denning & Osborne Phillips
The Development of Psychic Powers
St. Paul, MN
Llewellyn Publications; 1985
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