The Wolf and the Phoenix

A Book of Shadows

Table of Contents.
Wicca; an Overview - 3
13 Goals of a Witch - 8
Introduction - 9
The Devine - 12
Magic - 17
Ritual Tools - 20
Music, Dance, and Gesture - 25
Ritual Preparation - 30
Ritual Practice - 35
Esbats and Sabbats - 39
Afterlife - 50
Magickal Names - 53
Initiation - 55
Traditional Beliefs - 58
Teaching - 61
Folklore - 63
Poems - 64
Closing - 77

Wicca; an Overview
History
Wicca is a neo-pagan religion based on the pre-Christian traditions of England, Ireland,
Scotland, and Wales. Its origins can be traced even further back to Paleolithic peoples
who worshipped a Hunter God and a Fertility Goddess. Cave paintings found in France
(and dated at 30,000 years old) depict a man with the head of a stag, and a woman with
a swollen, pregnant belly. They stand in a circle with eleven mortals. These archetypes
of the divine are worshipped by Wiccans to this very day. By these standards, the
religion that is now called Wicca, is perhaps the oldest religion in the world.
In 1951, the laws against Witchcraft were repealed in England. A man named Gerald
Gardner was the first to come into the public eye with a description of what modern
witches were practicing. His information came from the traditions of a coven called the
New Forest Witches, and from Ceremonial Magick and the Cabballah. He began what is
now called the Gardnerian Tradition of Wicca. From Gardnerian came Alexandrian
Tradition, and a host of other offshoots that today number in the hundreds.

Misconceptions
For two thousand years the image of the Witch has been associated with evil,
heathenism, and blasphemy. These ideas have their origin in Christian myths created to
convert members of the Old Religion to that of the new. By making the Witch into a
diabolical character of ill intent and action, the Christian missionaries were able to
attach fear to a word that had once meant Healer, Wise One, and Seer. These fears are
present to this day. When we think of the archetypal image of the Witch, we remember
the evil enchantress of childhood tales. We think of an old, wrinkled hag with a nasty
wart on her nose. We think of hexes, and devils, and foul incantations chanted around a
bubbling cauldron. While we modern witches have been known to stir up herbal
remedies in a cauldron, we are a far cry indeed from the horrifying Wicked Witch of the
West!
Witches Do Not Worship Satan. To believe in Satan, one must subscribe to the Christian
mythos. We do not. Wicca does not have any belief in, nor do we worship a concept of
evil incarnate. All life is perceived as a constant flow of positive and negative energies,
which intertwine to create the balance of life. [From my own experience, I must say that
the only evil I have ever observed in the world has come from Man. There are no axmurderers, or child-abusers to be found in the animal kingdom, or in nature as a whole.]
Witches Do Not Cast Evil Spells. Modern Witches have a very strict belief in the Law of
Return. Whatever we send out into our world shall return to us, so even the most illtempered Witch would not consider doing magick to harm another being. The spells that

we do involve things like Healing, Love, Wisdom, Creativity, and Joy. The "potions" that
we stir might be a headache remedy, or a cold tonic, or an herbal flea bath for the family
dog.

Immanent Divinity
Wiccans believe that the spirit of God/dess exists in every living thing: in the trees, the
rain, the flowers, the sea, and in each other. This means that we must treat our peers,
and all the beings of the Earth as aspects of the Divine. We attempt to honor and
respect life, in all its many and diverse expressions.

Nature
Wiccans learn from and worship nature by celebrating the cycles of the sun, and the
cycles of the moon. We look into ourselves for the cycles within that correspond to
those of the natural world, and try to move in harmony with the movement of life. Our
teachers come in the form of trees, rivers, lakes, meadows, and mountains, as well as
other humans who have walked the path before us. This belief infers a reverence and
respect for the environment, and all of life upon the Earth We revere the spirits of the
elements that create our world. Air, Fire, Water, and Earth combine to manifest all
creation. From these four elements we gain wisdom, and understanding of how the
universe unfolds. The rhythms of nature are the rhythms of our lives. Wiccans attempt
to dance in step with the pulse of the Earth.

Other Faiths
Modern Witches believe in freedom first! We do not choose to look at our path as the
"one true right way," but as one path among many to the center. We do not convert new
members to the Craft, nor do we advertise or proselytize. We believe that anyone who
is meant for this path will find it through their own search. Wiccans practice tolerance
and acceptance toward all other religions, as long as those faiths do not preach or
commit harm to others.

Afterlife
Most Witches believe in reincarnation of some sort, whether it be the Eastern version
known as the Transmigration of Souls (the spirit incarnating one body after another in
an effort to learn all the life lessons that it can), or Ancestral Incarnation (where the spirit
and life lessons of the grandfather transmute to the granddaughter, and so on down the
genetic line). The latter is a more traditionally Celtic approach, but both are accepted.

Sin
In Wicca, we do not have a specific concept of sin. There is no heaven or hell that souls
will go to based on their worldly actions. Wrong-doing is governed and determined by
the individual conscience. With the belief in the Law of Return, one's actions will
determine one's future. The individual is therefore responsible for his or her own fate,
based on what he or she chooses to do internally and externally in the world.

Ethics
Wicca has but one law of action and ethics. It is called the Wiccan Rede or the Wiccan
Law, and can be found under the Reading Room category of the same name. "And ye
harm none" covers almost everything that the Ten Commandments do: don't lie, don't
steal, don't cheat, etc. It encourages us to strive not to harm any living thing - including
ourselves - except perhaps to survive. Whether this means that you must become a
vegetarian or a pacifist is up to the individual. The Wiccan Law serves as a guideline to
action, not a mandate. The only law that the Ten Commandments express that is not
covered by the Wiccan Law is that of marriage and adultery. In Wicca, love itself is
sanctified, with or without government authorization. As long as two individuals share a
sincere bond of love that does not harm either party, it does not matter if they are legally
joined, if they are heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, or interracial.

Leadership vs. Hierarchy

There is no Arch Bishop of Wicca. There is no one person or organization that
determines the practices and beliefs of Wicca as a whole. Instead, Wicca is formed of
small nebulas groups and solitaries who are charged with the leadership of themselves.
Wicca is a religion of clergy, not followers. Each person who seriously pursues the Craft,
whether it be through study in a particular tradition, or through self-teaching and private
learning, has the choice to become a priest or priestess of Wicca. Most modern
traditions of Wicca offer a three year program of learning that will bring the student to
the level of High Priest or Priestess.

Churches and Temples

Wiccans do not usually have churches created specifically for the worship of the gods.
Our temple is found in nature, among the creations of the divine. We meet in a circle
that represents the Circle of Life, and the equality that we share. There is no head, no
top, no beginning and no end. When necessary, our circles take place indoors in
houses, apartments, or wherever we can find a sacred, protected space. But ideally, a

circle will take place in a grove beneath the stars, with the silver moon shining down
from above.

Magick
Witches believe in the power of magick to create change. A prominent Wiccan author
named Starhawk defines magick as "the art of changing consciousness at will." By
being in tune with the rhythms of life, we can create change for ourselves and for our
world. We use herbs, oils, colors, stones, crystals, and other symbolic materials to
represent the change we wish to create. Wiccans believe that the individual is
responsible for his or her own reality. If there is something that is not healthy, or
conducive to happiness and growth, we have the power to change it. As aspects of the
divine, we are each Creator and Creatress, filled with the power to manifest all that we
dream of or desire.

What is Wicca?
Wicca is a forest in the light of the silvery moon...a glade enchanted by the light of the
Faery. It is the dewdrop on the petals of a flower in bloom, the warmth of the summer
sun on the skin, the fall of colourful autumn leaves, and the softness of winter snow
upon the Earth. It is light, and shadow and all that lies in between. It is the song of the
wind, and the tune of the tides. It is the symphony of life! To be a Witch is to be a healer,
a teacher, a seeker, a giver, and a protector of all things living and alive. If this path be
yours, may you tread it with honor and with light!

A Note from Lupin:

This book of shadows is composed of a selection of writings from various sources that I
found to hold true in my line of worship. If anyone else is to ever read this, keep in mind
these words are things that I find that I believe. It is in no way the only right way to
practice Wicca.

Thirteen Goals of a Witch:

I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.
XI.
XII.
XIII.

Know Yourself
Know Your Craft
Learn
Apply Knowledge with Wisdom
Achieve Balance
Keep Your Words in Good Order
Keep Your Thoughts in Good Order
Celebrate Life
Attune With the Cycles of the Earth
Breath and Eat Correctly
Exercise the Body
Meditate
Honor the Goddess and God

Introduction

The Wicca as described here is new. It is not a revelation of ancient rituals handed
down for thousands of years. This does no invalidate it, however, for it is based on timehonored practices. A three-thousand-year-old incantation to manna isnt necessarily

more powerful or effective than one improvised during a private rite. There are rituals in
this book, yes, but theyre guideposts, not holy writ. Some people might say But thats
just your stuff. Thats not the real Wicca. There is not, and can never be, one pure or
true or genuine form of Wicca. There are no central governing agencies, no physical
leaders, no universally recognized prophets or messengers. Although specific,
structured forms of Wicca certainly exist, they arent in agreement regarding ritual,
symbolism, and theology. Wicca is varied and multi-faceted. As in every religion, the
Wiccan spiritual experience is one shared with deity alone. Do it your way, not my way
simply because Ive set it down on paper.
Although nothing can replacing one on one teaching, this isnt practical for all who wish
to learn.
Wicca, the religion of the Witches. The Craft is a religion centering around reverence
for nature. It has spiritual roots in antiquity, and the acceptance of magick.
Wicca doesnt seek new members. Wicca doesnt solicit because it doesnt claim to be
the one true way to deity.
Wicca is a joyous religion springing from our kinship with Nature. It is a merging with the
universal energies that created all in existence. It is a personal, positive celebration of
life.
Wicca is a religion with many variations.
Wicca doesnt teach that upon physical death our soul will reincarnate in anything other
than a human body. Few of the Wicca believe we began our existence as rocks, trees,
snails, or birds before we evolved to the point where we could incarnate as human
beings. Those these creatures and substances do possess a type of soul, its not the
sort we humans have.
The Wiccan ideal of morality is simple: do what you want, as long as you harm none
(also do nothing that will harm yourself). If you as a Wicca abuse your body, deny it the
necessity of life, or otherwise harm yourself, youre in violation of this principle.
Wiccas temples are flower-splashed meadows, forests, beaches, and deserts. When a
Wicca is outdoors, she or he is actually surrounded by sanctity, much as like when a
Christian is entering a church or cathedral.
When we lose touch with our blessed planet, we lose touch with deity.
These are some of the basic principles of Wicca; the rituals and myths are secondary to
these ideals.
Dont worry what others might think, their feelings and thoughts concerning your religion
are of no consequence. Not everyone is suited for Wicca.
There are some who say that we are worshipping Satan. Not that we know it, of course;
Satan is too tricky for that, according to such experts. Such people cant believe that

any religion but their own can be meaningful, fulfilling, or true. So if we worship the God
and Goddess, they say, were denying all good and are worshipping Satan, the
embodiment of all negativity and evil. Wiccans arent so closed minded. Perhaps its the
greatest of all human vanities to assume that ones religion is the only way to deity, such
beliefs have caused incalculable bloodshed and the rise of the hideous concept of holy
wars.
There can never be one religion, prophet, or savior that will satisfy all the humans on
earth. Each of us must find our ideal way to attune with deity. For some, its Wicca.
Note: Dont shut out the physical world in favor of the spiritual of magickal realms, for
only through nature can we experience these realities.
Prayer: If concentration is extended, energies are sent out with the thoughts that may in
time make the prayer come true. Prayer is a form of religious magick.
Magick: Magick is the practice of moving nature energies to effect the needed change.
Wicca is a religion that embraces magick. If you seek only to practice magick, Wicca
probably isnt the answer for you. Magick isnt a means of forcing nature to do your will.
Magick is natural, it is a harmonious movement of energies to create needed change. If
you wish to practice magick, all thoughts of it being paranormal or supernatural must be
forgotten.
Fate: Most Wiccans dont believe in predestination. We honor and revere the goddess
and god, but we know that were free souls with full control responsibility of our lives.
We cant blame fate. Once a Wiccan takes full responsibility for all that she or he has
done (in this life and past ones) and determines that future actions will be in accord with
higher ideals and goals, magick will blossom and life will be joy.

The Devine

The goddess and god are both within ourselves and manifest in all nature. There is
nothing that isnt of the gods.
We acknowledge the dark aspects of the goddess and the god as well as the bright.
Yes the God and Goddess have dark aspects, but this neednt scare us off.

Wiccans acknowledge a divine power. The concept of this power has nearly been lost in
Wicca because of our difficulty in relating to it.
Every deity that has received worship upon this planet exists with the archetypal God
and Goddess. Every goddess is resident with the concept of The Goddess; every god in
The God.
The sight of a perfect blossom in a field of bare earth can instill feelings rivaling those of
the most powerful formal rite. Living in natures makes every moment a ritual. Wiccans
are comfortable in communication with animals, plants, and trees. They fell energies
within stones and sand and cause fossils to speak of their primeval beginnings.
In your quest to know the gods, take long walks beneath trees. Study flowers and
plants. Visit wild, natural places and feel the energies of The Goddess and The God
directly through the rush of a stream, the pulse of energy from an old oaks trunk, the
heat of a sun-warmed rock. Familiarizing yourself with the existence of the deities
comes more easily through the actual contact with such power sources. Feel them
inside and around you. The Goddess and God are real, attuning with them changes us
forever.
The Goddess constantly draws aside her veil; the God lights us up with inspiration and
illumination.
The Goddess and God; to honor them we preserve our precious planet.
The deities didnt exist before our spiritual ancestors acknowledgement of the.
However, the energies behind them did; they created us. We recognize these forces as
The Goddess and The God, personifying them in an attempt to understand them.
Some feel comfortable associating names name and forms with The Goddess and The
God. Yet others find a lack of names and costumes a comforting lack of limitations.
In appearance they look exactly as we wish them to, for theyre all the deities that ever
were.
We can contact and communicate with them because a part of us is in them and they
are within us.
We can call on the Goddess and God to clear our minds and to help us help ourselves.
Magick is an excellent means of accomplishing this.
The deities are the creative forces of the universe, we can call upon them to empower
our rites and to bless our magick.
The power is in the hands of every practitioner, not specialized priests or priestesses
who perform these feats for the masses. We have direct links with the deities. No
intermediaries are needed; no priests or confessors or shamans. We are the shamans.
Deity dwells within.

The Goddess and God are equal; neither is higher or more deserving of respect.
Note: Religion based entirely on feminine energy is unbalanced and unnatural.
The Goddess: The Goddess is the universal mother. She is often of three aspects: the
maiden, the mother, and the crone, symbolized in waxing, full, and waning moon. But as
life if her gift she lends it with the promise of death. This is not darkness and oblivion,
but rest from the toils of physical existence. It is human existence between incarnations.
The Goddess is, truly, all things. Shes all power, all wisdom, all love, all fertility, all
creativity; the nurturing as well as destructive force who created our universe and who
shapes our lives. She has dominion over the earth, sea and moon.
Symbols: Cauldron, cup, labrys, five petal flower, mirror, necklace, seashell,
pearl, silver, emerald.
Animals: Rabbit, bear, owl, cat, dog, bat, goose, cow, dolphin, lion, horse, wren,
scorpion, spider, and bee.
Candle Colors: Green, silver, white.
Most Wiccans acknowledge that the Goddess possesses a dark side. This is evident
from nature itself: storms and earthquakes immediately come to mind. However, weve
chosen not to focus on these aspects, and never invoke her for such purposes.
One of the aspects missing from my list is the Goddess of fat. Wiccan rarely invoke her
in this way, simply because we dont believe in predestination. If we did, we wouldnt
practice magic to alter our lives, for it wouldnt be effective.
The God: The God shares an equal place in the hearts of most Wiccans, for without
him, our world would be cold, desolate of fertility, and all life. Though most Wiccans
dont experience as emotional a response to the God as they do to the Goddess, hes
certainly called upon in times of need (particularly protection).
We see the God in the sun, the God is the sky father. The god of the sky, of rain, and
lightning, but The God is also tender of the wild animals. The Gods domains include
forests (untouched by human hands), burning deserts, and towering mountains. The
stars, since they are but distant suns, are also under his domain. He also rules sex.
[The Wicca dont avoid sex or speak of it in hushed words. Its a part of nature]
Symbols: Sword, horns, spear, candle, gold, brass, diamond, sickle, arrow,
magickal wand, trident, knife.
Animals: Bull, dog, snake, fish, stag, dragon, wolf, boar, eagle, falcon, shark,
lizard.
Candle Colors: Red, yellow, gold.

The Goddess appears to be more loving, more understanding, and more caring that the
God. The God, through no fault of his own, may appear to be unapproachable except in
Wiccan ritual, and even then, formalized prayers are necessary.
See him in faces of your male friends and in the eyes of young boys. See him in freshly
baked bread; in bunches of grapes; in towering, snowcapped mountains; in the sun that
warms the earth and provides us our food and all of our tools for living.
Remember: the God is just as much a part of contemporary Paganism as is the
Goddess. He isnt fearsome unless you decide to focus on his fearsome attributes. (This
is also true of the Goddess.) He can be the epitome of compassion, caring, nurturing
maleness, but only you can discover this.
Deity Association:

Business: Athena, Gaia, Jupiter

Change: Brighid, Persephone
Childbirth: Aphrodite, Brighid, Hera
Communication: Brighid, Hermes, Iris
Courage: Apollo, Ares, Artemis, Athena, Diana, Persephone
Creativity: Apollo, Athena, Brighid, Odin, the Muses
Divination: Gaia, Odin
Fertility: Apollo, Freya
Healing/Health: Aphrodite, Apollo, Artemis, Brighid
Heartbreak: Apollo, Diana, Gaia, Luna, Selena
Hunting: Apollo, Artemis, Diana
Justice: Apollo, Hecate
Knowledge: Hecate, Hermes
Liberation: Artemis, Diana
Love: Aphrodite, Isis
Luck: the Muses
Lunar Workings: Diana, Luna
Lust: Aphrodite, Isis
Magickal Power: Diana, Hecate, Odin
Marriage: Gaia, Hera
New Endeavors: Apollo, Brighid, Iris, the Muses
Opportunity: Brighid
Pets: Diana, Pan
Power: Athena, Zeus
Prosperity: Jupiter
Protection: Ares, Athena, Eris, Hecate, Thor, Zeus
Psychic Ability: Apollo, Hecate, Odin
Solar Workings: Apollo
Strength: Thor, Zeus
Success: Apollo, Diana

War: Area, Athena, Eris, Thor

Wisdom: Athena, Buddha, Diana

Magick

Wicca is a religion that embraces magick as one of its basic concepts. Magick allows us
to improve our lives and return energy to our ravaged planet. Wiccans also develop
relationships with the Goddess and God through magick. This doesnt mean ever spell
is a prayer, nor are invocations differently worded spells. In Wicca, magick is a religious
practice.
Magick the projection of natural energies to produce needed effects.

During ritual a Wiccan may direct personal power to the deities, asking that a specific
need be met. This is truly religious magick.
Magick is a process in which Wiccans work in harmony with the universal power source
that we envision as the Goddess and God.
Magick is a method whereby individuals under none but self-determined predestination
take control of their lives.
Contrary to popular belief, magick isnt supernatural. It is a natural practice utilizing the
genuine powers that havent yet been discovered or labeled by science. This doesnt
invalidate magick. Even scientists dont claim to know everything about our universe.
The powers the Wiccans use will eventually be documented and so lose their mystery.
Simply because it isnt fully understood doesnt mean that it doesnt exist.
In magick we plug into energies that zip around and through us.
There are three main sources of his energy; personal power, earth power, and divine
power.
Personal Power: It powers our bodies. We absorb energy form the moon and sun,
form water and good. We release it during movement, exercise, sex, and childbirth.
Even exhaling releases some power, thought we croup the loss through inhaling. In
magick personal power is aroused, infused with a specific purpose, released, and
directed toward its goal.
Earth Power: It resides in our planet and in its natural products. Stones, trees, wind,
flames, water, crystals, and scents all possess unique, specific powers that can be used
during magickal ritual. A Wiccan may dip a quartz crystal in salt water to cleanse it and
then press it against al ailing persons body to send its healing energies within. Or,
herbs may be sprinkled around a candle that is burned to produce a specific magickal
effect. Oils are rubbed onto the body to effect internal changes.
Devine Power: Its a manifestation of personal power and earth power. Its the energy
that exists within the Goddess and God. During ritual a Wiccan may direct personal
power to the deities, asking that a specific need be met. This is truly religious magick.
Usually, practicing magick involves herbs, crystals, and rocks; the use of symbols and
color; magickal gestures, music, voice, dance and trance; astral projection, mediation,
concentration, and visualization. But performing magickal rituals simply by manipulation
tools such as herbs and crystals will be ineffective, for the true power of magick lies
within ourselves.
So no matter the magickal system, personal power must be infused with the need and
then released. In Wiccan magick, personal power is recognized as our direct link with
the Goddess and God. Magick is a religious act in which Wiccans unite with their deities
to better themselves and their world.

Anyone can practice magick, within a religious context or not.

Trust yourself, if certain words or gestures pop into your mind while performing a spell,
and they seem right, by all means use them. Learn by doing.
Note: Magick is a positive practice, Wiccans dont perform destructive, manipulative, or
exploitive magick.

Ritual Tools

Tools arent necessary to the practice of Wicca. They do, however, enrich rituals and
symbolize complex energies, the tools have no power save for that which we lend to
them. Use magickal tools only as long as your feel comfortable in doing so.
As you collect each tool you can prepare it for ritual. It should be stripped of all
associations and energies; you dont know who owned the tool, nor to what purposed it
may have been used for.
In the following pages are some of the tools used in Wiccan ritual. Working with them,
familiarizing yourself with their powers, and pouring your own energy into them, you

may find their use becoming second nature. Fathering them might be a problem, but
this can be seen as a test of the seriousness of your Wiccan interest.
Broom: The Broom became a powerful tool against curses and practitioners of
evil magick. Laid across the threshold, the broom halted all spells sent to the
house or those resident within. A broom under the pillow brought pleasant
dreams and guarded the sleeper.
A Wicca may begin a ritual by sweeping the area lightly with the magick broom.
The sweeping is more than just a physical cleansing, in fact the brooms bristles
need not even touch the ground. While brushing, the Wiccan visualizes the
broom sweeping out the astral buildup that occurs where humans live. This
purifies the area to allow smoother ritual workings.
The Broom is linked with the element of water. It is also used in all types of water
spells, including those of love and psychic workings.
Wiccan and pagan handfastings (marriages) often include a broom leap.
In general, the broom is a purificatory and protective instrument, used to ritually
cleanse the area for magick or to guard a home by laying it across the threshold,
under the bed, in windowsill, or on doors.
Note: If you decide to buy a broom, try to find a round one; the flat shakertype doesnt seem to have the same effect.
Wand: the want is an instrument of invocation, used to direct energy, to draw
magickal symbols or a circle on the ground, to point toward danger while
perfectly balanced on the Witchs palm or arm, to even to stir brew in a cauldron.
The wand represent the element of air, and is sacred to the god. They are
traditionally wood; including willow, elder, oak, apple, peach, hazel, cherry, and
so on.
Any stick you use will be infused with energy and power. Find one that feels
comfortable, and itll do just fine.
Censer: the censer is an incense burner. If you cannot find a suitable censer,
make one. Any bowl or cut half-filled with sand or salt will serve well. The salt or
sand absorbs the heat from the charcoal or incense and prevents the bowl from
cracking. Stick, cone, or block incense can be used, any type is fine.
Spirits are sometimes commanded to appear in visible form in the smoke rising
from the censer. While this isnt part of Wicca, the Goddess and God can
sometimes be seen in the curling, twisting smoke.
Sitting while breathing slowly and watching the smoke can be entrancing act.

Wiccan ritual, when performed indoors, isnt complete without incense. Thus, the
censer is an important tool for indoor rites. The Censer represent the element of
air.
Cauldron: The cauldron is the Witchs tool. It is an ancient vessel of cooking and
brew making, steeped in magickal tradition and mystery. The cauldron is the
symbol of the Goddess, it is also symbolic of the element of water, reincarnation,
immortality, and inspiration.
The Cauldron is often a focal point of ritual. During spring rites it is sometimes
filled with fresh water and flowers; during winter a fire may be kindled within the
cauldron to represent the returning heat. The cauldron can also be an instrument
of scrying by filling it with water and staring into its inky depths.
Athame: The athame (magick knife) has an ancient history. It isnt used for
cutting purposes in Wicca, but to direct the energy raised during rites and spells.
It is seldom used to invoke or call upon the deities for it is an instrument of
commanding and power manipulation. When the knife is used in ritual to direct
energy, some of this power is absorbed into the handle, but only a small amount.
This energy can be called upon later, and sometimes energy raised within
Wiccan ritual is channeled into the knife for later use.
Some Wiccans engrave their knives, but this isnt necessary. As with most
magickal tools, the knife becomes powerful by your touch and usage. (A sword is
sometimes used in Wicca, but can be difficult for indoor rituals due to its size.)
The knife is commonly linked with the element of fire. Its phallic nature links it
with the god.
White Handled Knife: The white handled knife (sometimes called a bolline) is a
practical, working knife as opposed to the purely ritualistic athame. It is used to
cut wands or sacred herbs, inscribe symbols onto candles or on wood, clay, or
wax, ad in cutting cords for use in magick. It is usually white handled to
distinguish it from the athame.
Crystal Sphere: The quartz crystal sphere is an ancient magickal tool. The
crystal has long been used in contemplative divination. The diviner gazes into the
ball until the psychic faculties blossom, and images, seen in the mind or
projected buy it into the depths of the crystal, reveal the necessary information.
In Wiccan ritual, the crystal is sometimes placed on the altar to represent the
Goddess. Its shape is the Goddess-symbolic, as are all circles and rounds, and
its icy cold temperature is symbolic of the depths of the sea, the Goddess
domain. The crystal may also be used to receive messages from the Gods, or to
store energy raised in ritual. Some Wiccans scry in the crystal to call up images
of the Goddess or of past lives.

Periodic exposure to moonlight or rubbing the crystal with fresh mugwort, will
increase its ability to spark our psychic powers.
Cup: The cup is simply a cauldron on a stem. It symbolizes the Goddess and
fertility, and is related to the element of water. Thought it can be used to hold
water, it may also contain the ritual beverage during the rite. The cup can be
made of nearly any substance.
Alter Plate: The alter plate is usually a flat piece of brass, gold, silver, wood,
wax, or clay, inscribed with certain symbols. The most common, and indeed the
only necessary one, is the pentagram, the five pointed star that has been used in
magick for millennia. The pentacle was borrowed from ceremonial magick. In
this ancient art is was often an instrument of protection, or a toll used to evoke
spirits. In Wicca, the pentacle represents the element of earth and is a
convenient tool upon which to place amulets, charms, or other objects to be
ritually consecrated. Alter plates are also sometimes hung over doors and
windows to act as protective devices.
The Book of Shadows: The Book of Shadows is a Wiccan workbook containing
invocations, ritual patterns, spells, runes, rules governing magick, and so on.
Some Book of Shadows are passed from on Wiccan to another, usually upon
initiation, but the vast majority of Books of Shadows today are composed by each
individual Wiccan.
Dont believe the stories I most other Wiccan books that one single Book of
Shadows has been handed down from antiquity, for reach sect of Wicca seems
to claim that theirs is the original, and theyre all different.
To make your own Book of Shadows, begin with any blank book and simply write.
Write any rituals, spells, invocations and magickal information that you have
either composed or found elsewhere and would like to preserve. But remember,
all Books of Shadows are suggestions as to ritual, not holy writ. Never feel tied
down to these words. Ideally all rites are memorized, or created spontaneously,
but if you would ready your rites, be sure your copies are legible by flickering
firelight.
Bell: The bell is a ritual instrument. Ringing a bell unleashes vibrations that have
powerful effects. The bell is a feminine symbol so it often used to invoke the
Goddess in ritual. It is also rung to ward off evil spells and spirits, to halt storms,
or to evoke good energies. Placing it in a cupboard or hanging it over a door
guars the home. Balls are also sometimes rung in ritual to mark carious sections
and to signal a spells beginning or end. Any type of bell can be used.

But one suggestion: if you find your rites stuffy and unsatisfying, if they dont
create a link with the deities, the problem may be lack of emotional content.
Music and dance can produce true involvement in the ritual.

Music, Dance, and Gesture

Wicca understands that what we perceive to be the difference between the physical and
nonphysical is due to our imitations as materially based being. Some of the tools used
in the practice of religion are indeed nonphysical. Three of the most effective of these
are music, dance, and gesture.
Music and dance are among the earliest magickal and religious acts, and the simple
gesture of pointing still has powerful emotional effects even today. Now the first music

was probably rhythmic. Clapping creates a distinctive, clean sound that is still used by
some Wiccans to release personal power during magickal ritual. The thought of
dancing, singing, or making music embarrasses some of us. This is a natural outgrowth
of our increasingly repressive society. In Wicca, however, dance and music occurs
before the deities alone. You arent performing for a crowd. The deities dont care, and
no one ever need know what you do before the Gods in your rites.
But one suggestion: if you find your rites stuffy and unsatisfying, if they dont create a
link with the deities, the problem may be lack of emotional content. Music and dance
can produce true involvement in the ritual.
Music: Music is simply a re-creation of the sounds of nature. Human beings
have long integrated music into religious and magickal rituals for it is powerful
effects. Music can be part of Wiccan workings, even today. You might simply find
appropriate pieces, selected from classical, ethnic, folk, or contemporary
sources, and play these during rituals. Musically inclined Wiccan can create
music before, during, or after the ritual.
Such musical interludes can be used directly prior to the rite to set the mood;
during, as an offering to the Goddess and God or to rouse energy; and afterward
in pure celebration and joy. Some Wiccans compose a song that is in actuality a
rite, encompassing everything from the created of a sacred space and invoking
the deities to thanking them for their presence. Music magick is truly what you
decide to make it.

Four distinct types of instruments have specific powers. The drum, rattle,
xylophone, and all percussion instruments are ruled by the element of earth.
Such instruments can be used to invoke fertility, increase money, find a job,
and so on. They can also be used to invoke the Goddess in ritual, or to drum
up energy to send to the earth.
The flute, recorder, and all wind instruments are under the dominion of air, the
intellectual element, and so can be used to increase mental powers or
visualization abilities, to discover ancient wisdom or knowledge, to improve
psychic abilities, and to call upon the God.
Fire rules the stringed instruments such as lyre, harp, guitar, mandolin,
ukulele, and so on. Such instruments can be used in spells or rites involving
sexuality, health, bodily strength, passion, will power, change, evolution,
courage, and the destruction of harmful habits. They are also excellent tools
to use before ritual to purify the area in question, and also the celebrant. Play
a particular song, sing with the instrument, or just strum around the area in a
clockwise circle until the place is humming with your vibrations. Strings can
also be used to invoke the God.
Resonant metal such as cymbal, cestrum, bell, and gong are symbolic of the
element of water. Since water encompasses healing, fertility, friendship,
psychic powers, spiritual love, beauty, compassion, happiness, and other

similar energies; bells, gongs, or cymbals can be featured in such spells and
rites. The cestrum of Isis reminds us that resonant metal invoke the Goddess.
Musical spells can be simple and effective. Need money? Sit quietly dressed in green
and slowly thump a drum, visualizing yourself bursting with cash while invoking the
Goddess in her aspect of provider of abundance. If youre feeling depressed, find a bell
with a pleasant tone and ritually strike or ring it. Feel the sounds vibrations cleaning you
of the depression and lifting your spirits. Or even wear small bells on your person. If
youre afraid, play a six-string guitar or listen to pre-recorded guitar music while
visualizing yourself as confident and courageous. Invoke the God in his horned,
aggressive, protective aspect.
Singing, a combination of speech and music, can be readily integrated into Wiccan
rituals.
Dance: Dance is certainly an ancient ritual practice. Its also a magickal act, for
physical movement release energy from the body, the same energy used in
magick. This secret was discovered early, and so dance was incorporated into
magick and ritual to raise energy, to alter consciousness, or simply to honor the
Goddess and God with ritual performance. Feel free to move in any manner you
wish, no matter how child-like or wild it may seem. When the practitioner has
reached the point of no return, the exact moment when the body can raise and
channel no more energy, the power is released toward the magickal goal. To do
this, some Wicca collapse to the ground signaling the end of what is rather
peculiarly called The Dance.
Dancing is used to raise energy as well as to facilitate attunement with the deities of
nature. As you dance, using whatever movements you wish, open yourself to the God
and Goddess. Think for a moment of the whirling dervishes, the untamed Gypsy dances
of Europe, the sensuous belly dancing of the Middle East, and the sacred hula of old
Hawaii. Dance is one of the paths to deity.
Gesture: Gestures are silent counterparts to words. Gestures can enhance
Wiccan rituals when performed in conjunction with invocations or dance, or can
be used alone for their real power. The use of the first and middle fingers splayed
to create a V and the vulgar presentation of an upraised middle finger,
demonstrate the variety of messages that can be conveyed through gesture, as
well as the range of our emotional response to them. Mano figa (a hand clenched
into a fist, the thumb jutting out between the first and middle fingers) and the
mano cornuta, a v formed by the first and little fingers held upside down. Both
have long been used to avert the evil eye and negativity, and the latter is used in
Wicca, with points up, to represents the God in his horned aspect.
The magickal significance of gestures in complex, and stems from the powers of
the hand. The hand can heal or kill, caress or stab. It is a channel through which
energies are sent from the body or received from others. Hands are symbolic of

the physical world. But in their give digits lie the pentagram, the supreme
protective magickal symbol; the some of the four elements is coupled with
akasha, the spiritual power of the universe.
Gestures in Wiccan ritual can easily become second nature. When invoking the
Goddess and God, the hands can be held uplifted with the fingers spread to
receive their power. The Goddess can be individually invoked with the left hand,
the thumb and first finger held and curled into a half-circle, while the rest of the
fingers are tucked against the palm. This represents the crescent moon. The God
is invoked with the first and middle fingers of the right hand raised, or with the
first and fourth fingers up, the thumb holding down the others against the palm, to
represent horns.
The elements can be invoked with individual gestures when approaching the four
directions: a flat hand held parallel with the ground to invoke the earth at the north; an
upraised hand, fingers spread wide apart, to invoke air at the east; an upraised fist for
the south to invite fire, and a cupped hand to the west to invoke water. Other hand
gestures that can be used to invoke the elements include; holding two palms together
pointed toward the skies, with fingers closed, to invoke the element of air; one closed
hand pointed upward, and a closed fist with the knuckles pressed against the palm to
invoke the element of water; one closed hand pointed upward, and a closed fist with
thumb pointing upward at the base of the hand to invoke the element of fire; and a
closed fist with the other hand over the knuckles to invoke the element of earth.
The Goddess position is assumed by lacing the feet about two feet apart on the ground,
holding the hands out, palms away from you, elbows bent slightly, this position can be
used to call the Goddess or to attune with her energies. The God position consists of
the feet together on the floor, body held rigidly upright, arms crossed on the chest (right
over left, usually), hands held in fists. Tools such as the wand and magick knife
(athame) are sometimes held in the fists, echoing the practice of pharaohs of ancient
Egypt who held a crook and flail in a similar position while trying disputes.
In coven work, the High Priestess and High Priest often assume these positions when
invoking the Goddess and God. In solo workings they can be used to identify with the
aspects of the Goddess and God within us, and also during separate invocatory rites.
Gestures are also used in magick. Each of the fingers relates to a specific planet as well
as an ancient deity. Since pointing is a magickal act and is a part of many spells, the
finger can be chosen by its symbolism. The thumb relates to Venus and to the planet
Earth. Jupiter (both the planet and the god) rules the forefinger. The middle finger is
ruled by the God and planet Saturn, the fourth finger the sun and Apollo, and the little
finger by the planet Mercury as well as the God after which it is named.
Many spells involve pointing with the Jupiter and Saturn fingers, usually at an object to
be charged or imbued with magickal energy. The power is visualized as traveling
straight out through the fingers and into the object. Other ritual gestures used in Wiccan

rites include the cutting of pentagrams at the four quarters by drawing them in the air
with the magick knife, wand, or index finger. This is done to alternately banish or invoke
elemental powers. It is, of course, performed with visualization.

Ritual Preparation

Ritual: A specific form of movement, manipulations of objects, or series of inner

processes designed to produce desired effects.
In Wicca, rituals are ceremonies that celebrate and strengthen our relationships with the
Goddess, the God, and the earth. These rituals need not be preplanned, rehearsed, or
traditional, nor must they slavishly adhere to one particular pattern or form. A Wiccan
rite may consist of a lone celebrant lighting a fire, chanting sacred names, and watching
the moonrise. Or it may involve ten or more people, some of whom assume various
roles in mythical plays, or speak long passages in honor of the Gods. The rite may be
ancient or newly written. Its outer form isnt important as long as it is successful in
achieving an awareness of the deities within the Wiccan.
Wiccan ritual usually occurs on the nights of the full moon and the eight days of power,
the old agricultural and seasonal festivals of Europe. Rituals are usually spiritual in
nature but may also include magickal workings. The best way to learn Wicca is to
practice it; thus through the course of time, by performing rituals such as those in this
book or the ones you write yourself, youll gain an understanding of the true nature of
Wicca.
To the lone Wiccan, the creation of new rituals can be exciting practice. You might
spend nights with reference works, piecing together bits of ritual and invocation, or
simply allow the spirit of the moment and the wisdom of the deities to fill you with
inspiration. No matter how theyre created, all rituals should be done out of joy, not
obligation. If you wish, time your rites with the seasons, the pagan feast days, and
phases of the moon.
First: Make sure you wont be interrupted during your religious (or magickal) rite.
If youre at home, tell your family that youll be busy and arent to be disturbed. If
alone, silence your phone, lock the doors, and pull the blinds, if you wish. Its the
best if you can ensure that you will be alone and undisturbed for some time.
A Ritual Bath: Commonly follows the insurance of un-disturbance. This is partly
psychological: if you feel clean and refreshed from the days worries, youll feel
comfortable contacting the Goddess and God. Ritual purification is a common
feature among many religions. In Wicca we see water as a purifying substance
that strips off the disturbing vibrations of everyday tensions and allows us to
stand before the deities with purity of body as well as purity of thought. The bath
often becomes a ritual itself. Candles can be burned in the bathroom, along with
incense. Fragrant oils or herbal sachets can be added to the water.
Outdoor Rituals: Traditionally occur near oceans, lakes, or streams and can
begin with a quick swim. Of course, bathing isnt possible prior to spontaneous
rituals. Even the necessity of ritual bathing is questioned by some. If you feel
comfortable bathing, do so. If you dont feel its necessary, it isnt. Once bathes
its time to dress for ritual. Among many Wiccans today nudity is a preferable
state in which to invoke the deities of nature. It is certainly true that this is the

most natural condition in which the human body can be, but ritual nudity isnt for
everyone. If clothed, Wiccan produce magick just as effective as that produced
by naked Wiccans. Clothing is no barrier to the transference of power. A most
convincing explanation of Wiccan ritual nudity is that it is used for its symbolic
value: mental, spiritual, as well as physical nudity before the Goddess and God
symbolize the Wiccans honest and openness. Ritual nudity was practiced in
many ancient religions and can be found today in scattered areas of the world, so
this isnt really a new idea, except with some westerners.
Specialized Dress: Such as robes and tabards, are quite popular among some
Wiccans. Various reasons are given for the use of robes, one of which that
slipping into garments worn only for magick lends a mystic atmosphere to such
rituals and shifts your awareness to the coming proceedings, thereby promotion
ritual consciousness.
Colors are also used for their specific vibrations. The listing below is a good
sampling of robe colors. If I was especially interested in herb magick or
performed rituals designed to halt the proliferation of nuclear power plants and
weapons, I might wear a green robe to help key my rituals into earth energies.
Specific robes can be made and worn by the industrious for certain spells or
cycles of spells, below are some color descriptions you can use.

Yellow: Is an excellent color for those involved with divination.

Purple: Is favor for those who work with purse divine power (magicians) or
who wish to deepen their spiritual awareness or the Goddess and God.
Blue: Is suited for healers and those who work with their psychic
awareness or for attuning with the Goddess in her oceanic aspect.
Green: Empowers herbalists and magickal ecologists.
Brown: Is worn by those who attune with animals or who cast spells for
them.
White: Symbolized purification and our spirituality, and also is perfect for
mediation and cleansing rituals. It is worn for full moon celebrations, or to
attune with the Goddess.
Orange or Red: Worn on Sabbats, during protective rites, or when attuning
with the God in his fiery solar aspect.
Black: Contrary to popular misconceptions, black does not symbolize evil.
It is the absence of color. It is a protective hue and symbolizes the night,
the universe, and a lack of falsehood. When a Wiccan wears a black robe,
he or she is donning the blackness of outer space symbolically the
ultimate source of divine energy.

Robes range from simple bath type designs to fully hooded and lined monkish
creations, complete with bell sleeves guaranteed to go up in flames if waved too
close to candles. Some Wiccans wear robes with hoods to shut off outside
interference and to control sensory stimulation during ritual. This is a fine idea for

magick or meditation but not for Wiccan religious rites, when we should be
opening ourselves to nature rather than cutting off our connections with the
physical world.
If you dont wish to dress in such a garment, are unable to sew, or simply cant
find anyone to make one for you, just wear clean clothing. So long as you are
comfortable with what you are (or arent) wearing, youre doing fine.
Jewelry: Selecting and donning ritual jewelry naturally follows dressing. Many
Wiccans have collections of exotic pieces with religious or magickal designs. But
you neednt purchase or make such extravagances. Keep it simple for now. If you
feel comfortable wearing one or two pieces of jewelry then thats fine too.
But with jewelry, it isnt wise to put our hopes, dreams, and energies into physical
objects, this is a limitation, a direct product of the materialism fostered upon us all
our lives. Power objects and ritual jewelry can indeed be reminders of the
Goddess and God, and symbols of our own affinities. But they shouldnt be
allowed to become more than that.
I am not saying power shouldnt be sent into objects: indeed this is the way
magically charged talismans and amulets are made. I am simply saying you
shouldnt depend on these charged objects. Your goal should perhaps be the
ability to constantly tune in on the hidden world around us and the reality of the
Goddess and God, even in the midst of the most grounding, debasing follies of
the human experience.
Now that youre bathed, clothed, adorned, and ready for ritual. Amy other
considerations? Yes, a big one company.
Do you wish to worship the Old Gods of Wicca privately or with others? If you have
interested friends you may want to invite them to join you. If not, no problem. Solo ritual
is fine when starting out on the Wiccan way. The presence of like-minded people can be
nice, but it can also be inhibiting.
If you wish to gather with friends for your rituals, do so only with those who are truly in
tune with your feelings concerning Wicca. Snickers and wandering thoughts will do
nothing to further you Wiccan progress. Also, beware the love interest the significant
other who takes interest only because youre interested. They may seem to be genuine,
but after a while you may realize theyre not contributing to the rituals.
Never feel inferior in your worship because youre not working under the guidance of a
teacher or an established coven. Dont worry that you wont be recognized as a true
Wiccan. Such recognition is important only in the eye of those giving or withholding it,
otherwise it is meaningless.
Each tradition of Wicca, whether passed down or intuitively performed, is akin to a petal
of a flower. No one petal constitutes the whole; all are necessary to the flowers
existence. The solitary path is as much a part of Wicca as is any other.

Ritual Practice

The Circle, magick circle, or sphere is a well-defined though non-physical temple. In

much of Wicca today, rituals and magickal workings take place within such a
construction of personal power. Circles used in ceremony that are designed to protect

the practitioner(s) from the forces in which they have raised. In Wicca, the circle is used
to create the sacred space in which humans meet with the Goddess and God. In preChristian Europe, most pagans religious festivals occurred outdoors. These were
celebrations of the sun, moon, the starts, and of the earths fertility. The standing stones,
stone circles, sacred groves, and revered springs of Europe are remnants of those
ancient days.
The Pagan rites went underground when they were outlawed by the newly powerful
Church. No longer did meadows know the sounds of voices chanting the old names of
the sun gods, and the moon hung unadorned in the nighttime skies. The pagans grew
secretive about their rites. Some practiced them outside only under the cover of
darkness. Others brought them indoors. Wicca has, unfortunately, inherited this last
practice.
Thought most Wiccans practice their religion indoors, its ideal to run the rites outside
beneath the sun and moon, in wild and lonely places far from the haunts of humans.
Outdoor rituals can be a thousand times more effective because they are outdoors, not
in a room filled with steel and plastic and the trappings of our technological age. When
outdoor rituals arent possible (weather is certainly a factor), Wiccans transform their
living rooms and bedrooms into places of power. Magick may also be practiced there.
This sacred space is the magick circle.
The circle defines the ritual area, holds in personal power, shuts out distracting
energies, in essence, it creates the proper atmosphere for the rites. Standing within a
magick circle, looking at the candles shining on the altar, smelling the incense and
chanting ancient names is a wonderfully evocative experience. When properly formed
and visualized, the magick circle performs its function of bringing us closer to the
Goddess and God.
The circle is constructed with personal power that is felt (and visualized) as streaming
from the body, through the magick knife, (athame) and out into the air. When completed,
the circle is a sphere of energy that encompasses the entire working area. The world
circle is a misnomer; a sphere of energy is what is actually created. The circle simply
marks the ring where the sphere touches the earth (or floor) and continues on through it
to form the other half. Some kind of marking is often placed on the ground to show
where the circle bisects the earth. This might be a cord laid in a roughly circular shape,
a lightly drawn circle of chalk, or objects situation to show its outlines. Use objects that
spark your imagination and are in tune with the ritual.

The circle is usually for formal rites, nine feet in diameter, though any comfortable
size is fine. The cardinal points are often marked with lit candles or the rituals
tools assigned to each point.
The pentacle, a blow of salt, or earth may be places to the north. This is the
realm of the earth, the stabilizing, fertile, and nourishing element that is the
foundation of the other three.

The censer with smoldering incense is assigned to the east, the home of the
intellectual element, air. Fresh flowers or stick incense can also be used. Air is
the element of the mind, or communication, movement, divination, and ascetic
spirituality.
To the south, a candle often represents fire, the element of transformation, of
passion and change, success and health, and strength. An oil lamp or piece of
lava rock may be used as well.
A cup or bowl of water can be placed in the west of the circle to represent water,
the last of the four elements. Water is the realm of the emotions, of the psychic
mind, love, healing, beauty, and emotional spirituality.

Then again, these four objects may be placed on their altar, their positions
corresponding to the directions of their elemental attributes.
Once the circle has been formed around the working space, rituals begin. During
magickal workings the air within the circle can grow got and close it will truly feel
different from the outside world, charged with energy and alive with power. In Wiccan
thought, the circle represents the Goddess, the spiritual aspects of nature, fertility,
infinity, and eternity. It also symbolizes the earth itself.
The altar, bearing the tools, stands in the center of the circle. It can be made of any
substance though wood is traditional. Oak is especially recommended for its power and
strength, as is willow that is sacred to the Goddess.
Wiccans dont believe that the Goddess and God inhabit the altar itself. It is a place of
power and magick, but it isnt sacrosanct. Though the altar is usually set up and
dismantled for each magickal ritual, some Wiccans have permanent home altars as
well. Your shrine can grow into such an altar. The altar is sometimes round to represent
the goddess and spirituality, though it may also be square which is symbolic of the
elements. It may be nothing more than an area of ground, a cardboard box covered with
cloth, two cinder blocks with a board lying flat on top, a coffee table, an old sawed off
tree stump in the wild, or a large, flat rock. During outdoor rituals, a fire may substitute
the altar.
The Wiccan tools are usually arranged upon the altar in a pleasing patter. Generally the
altar is set in the center of the circle facing north. North is a direction of power. It is
associated with the earth, and because this is our home we may feel more comfortable
with this alignment. Then too, some Wiccans place their altars facing east, where the
sun and moon rise.
The left half of the altar is usually dedicated to the Goddess. Tools sacred to here
are placed there: the cup, the pentacle, bell, crystal, and cauldron. An image of
the Goddess may also stand there and a broom might be laid against the left side
of the altar. To the right side, the emphasis is on the God. A red, yellow, or hold
candle, or an appropriate figure, is usually placed there, as are the censer, wand,
athame, and white handled knife.

Flowers may be set in the middle, perhaps in a vase or small cauldron. Then too,
the censer is often centrally situated so that its smoke is offered up to both the
Goddess and the God, and the pentacle might be placed before the censer.
Some Wiccans follow a more natural oriented altar plan. To represent the
Goddess, a round stone, a corn dolly, or a seashell work well. Pine cones,
tapered stones, and acorns can be used to represent the God. Use your
imagination in setting up the altar.
If youre working magick in the circle, all necessary items should be within it before you
begin, either on the altar or beneath it. Never forget to have matches handy, and a small
bowl to hold the used ones. (Thought we may setup images of the Goddess and God,
were not idol worshippers. We dont believe that a given statue or pile of rocks actually
is the deity represented.)

Esbats and Sabbats

Sabbats:

Four of these days (or more properly nights) are determined by the solstices and
equinoxes, the astronomical beginnings of the seasons. The other four ritual occasions

are based on old folk festivals. The rituals give structure and order to the Wiccan year,
and also remind us of the endless cycle that will continue long after were gone.
Four of the Sabbats were probably associate with agriculture and the bearing cycles of
animals. These are Imbolc (February 2nd), Beltane (April 30th), Lughnasadh (August 1st),
and Samhain (October 31st). These names are Celtic and quite common among
Wiccans, though many others exist.
When careful observation of the skies led to common knowledge of the astronomical
year, the solstices and equinoxes were brought into this religious structure. Many of
these survive today in both secular and religious forms. May Day, Halloween,
Groundhog Day, and even Thanksgiving, to name some popular American holidays, are
all connected with ancient pagan worship.
The Sabbats are solar rituals, marking the points of the suns yearly cycle, and are but
half of the Wiccan ritual year. The Esbats are the Wiccan full moon celebrations. At this
time we gather to worship She Who Is. Not that Wiccans omit the God at Esbats-both
are usually revered on all ritual occasions.
Most rites are held at night for practical purposes as well as to lend a sense of mystery.
The Sabbats, being solar oriented, are more naturally celebrated at noon or at dawn,
but this is rare today.
Yule(Y-ooo-l): Renewal and Rebirth During Winter
The Goddess gives birth to a son, the God, at Yule. This is no way an adaption of
Christianity. The winter solstice has long been viewed as a time of divine births.
Yule is a time of the greatest darkness, and is the shortest day of the year.
Wiccans sometimes celebrate Yule just before dawn, then watch the sunrise as a
fitting finale to their efforts.
Since the God is also the sun, this marks the point of the year when the sun is
reborn as well. Thus, the Wicca light fires or candles to welcome the suns
returning light. The Goddess, slumbering through the winter of labor, rests after
her delivery.

The altar is adorned with evergreens such as pine, rosemary, bay,

juniper, and cedar, and the same can be laid to mark the circle of
stones. Dried leaves can also be placed on the altar.
The cauldron, resting on the altar on a heat-proof surface (or
placed before it if too large), should be filled with ignitable spirit
(alcohol), a red candle can be placed within it. At outdoor rites lay a
fire within the cauldron to be lit during ritual.
One traditional Yuletide practice is the creation of a Yule tree. This
can be living, potted tree that can later be planted in the ground, or
a cut one. This choice is yours

As to good, nuts, fruits such as apples and pears, cakes of

caraways soaked in cider, and pork are traditional fare. Wassail
lambswool, hibiscus, or ginger tea are fine drinks for The Simple
Feast or Yule meals.
o Circle Traditions: Fires are lit within cauldrons; candles may
be carried around the circle; trees or potted evergreens may
be honored as symbols of continuing fertility of the earth; a
Yule log may be lit if a fire is physically within the circle.
o Colors: Green and Red

Imbolc (Im-ull-ck): The Festival of Lights (to encourage the suns return)
Imbolc marks the recovery of the Goddess after giving birth to the God. The
lengthening periods of light awaken her. The God is a young, lusty boy, but his
power is felt in the longer days. The warmth fertilizes the earth (The Goddess),
causing seeds to germinate and sprout. And so the earliest beginnings of spring
occur.
This is a Sabbat of purification after the shut in life of winter, through the
renewing power of the sun. It is also a festive of light and fertility, once marked in
Europe with huge blazes, torches, and fire in every form. Fire here represents
our own illumination and inspiration as much as light and warmth. This is one of
the traditional times for initiations into covens, and so self-dedication rituals can
be performed or renewed at this time.

A symbol of the season, such as a representation of a snowflake, a white

flower, or perhaps some snow in a crystal container can be placed on the
altar. An orange candle anointed with musk, cinnamon, frankincense, or
rosemary oil, unlit, should also be there. Snow can be melted and used for
the water during the circle casting.
It is traditional upon Imbolc, at sunset or just after ritual, to light every lamp
in the house if only for a few moments. Or, light candles in each room to
honor the suns rebirth. Alternately, light a kerosene lamp with a red
chimney and place this in a prominent part of the home or in a window.
Food appropriate to eat on this day include those from the dairy, since
Imbolc marks the festival of calving. Sour cream dishes are fine. Spicy and
full-bodied foods in honor of the sun are equally attuned. Curries and all
dishes made with peppers, onions, leeks, shallots, garlic, or chives are
appropriate. Spiced wines and dishes containing raisins all food
symbolic of the sun are also traditional.
o Circle Traditions: Candles or torches are lit and held in circle, and
are usually carried around the altar at some point; a symbol of the
wheel is placed on the altar; ritual blessings and planting of seeds
in bots in the circle with requests to the Goddess and God.
o Colors: White, Green, Blue

Ostara (Ah-star-ah): The Start of Spring

Ostara, the spring equinox. Also known as spring, Rites of Spring, and Eostras
day, marks the first day of true spring. The Goddess blankets the earth with
fertility, bursting form from her sleep, as the God stretches and grows to maturity.
He walks the greening fields and delights in the abundance of nature.
On Ostara the hours of day and night are equal. Light is overtaking the darkness;
the Goddess and God impel the wild creatures of the earth to reproduce. This is
a time of beginnings, of action, of planting spells for future gains, and tending
ritual gardens.

Flower should be laid on the altar, placed around the circle and strewn on
the ground. The Cauldron can be filled with spring water and flowers, and
buds and blossoms may be warn as well. A small potted plant should be
placed on the altar. Arrange the altar, light the candles and incense, and
cast the circle.
A traditional vernal equinox pastime: go to a field and randomly collect
wildflowers. Or, buy some from a florist, taking one or two of those that
appeal to you. The flowers youve chosen reveal your inner thoughts and
emotions.
It is important at this time of renewed life to plan a walk through gardens, a
park, woodlands, forest, and other green places.
Good in tune with this day include those made of seeds, such as
sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame seeds, as well as pine nuts. Sprouts are
equally appropriate, as are leafy green vegetables. Flower dishes such as
stuffed nasturtiums or carnation cupcakes also find their place here.
o Circle Traditions: A fire is lit in the circle with appropriate woods
during the rite itself, not before.
o Colors: White

Beltane (Bell-tay-een): The Return of Full-Blown Fertility

Beltane marks the emergence of the young God into manhood. Stirred by the
energies at work in nature, he desires the Goddess. They fall in love, lie among
the grasses and blossoms, and unite. The Goddess becomes pregnant of the
God. The Wiccans celebrate the symbol of her fertility in ritual.
May poles, supremely phallic symbols, were the focal point of old English village
rituals. Many persons rose at dawn to gather flowers and green branches from
the fields and gardens, using them to decorate the May pole, their homes, and
themselves. The flower and greenery symbolize the Goddess; the May pole the
God. May Poles are sometimes used by Wiccans today during Beltane rituals,
but the cauldron is a more common focal point of ceremony

If possible, celebrate Beltane in a forest or near a living tree. If this is

impossible, bring a small tree within the circle, preferably potted; it can be
of any type. Create a small token or charm in honor of the wedding of the
Goddess and God to hang upon the tree. You can make several if you
desire. These token cans be bags filled with fragrant flowers, strings of
beads, carving, flower garlands whatever your talents and imagination
can conjure.
Weaving and plaiting are traditional arts at this time of year, for the joining
together of two substances to form a third is the spirit of Beltane.
Foods traditionally come from the dairy, and dishes such as marigold
custard and vanilla ice cream are fine. Oatmeal cakes are also
appropriate.
o Circle Traditions: Dancing the Maypole (or weaving ribbons);
bonfire leaping; the blowing of horns.
o Colors: White

Midsummer (Mid-Sum-mer): Great, Magickal Power

Midsummer, the summer solstice, also known as Litha, arrives when the powers
of nature reach their highest point. The earth is awash in fertility of the Goddess
and God. In the past, bonfires were leapt to encourage fertility, purifications,
health, and love. The first once again represents the sun, feted on this time of
longest daylight hours. Midsummer is a classic time for magick of all kinds.

Before the rite, make up a small cloth pouch filled with herbs such as
lavender, chamomile, St. Johns wort, or vervain. Mentally pour all your
troubles, problems, pains, sorrows, and illnesses, if any, into this petition
as you contrast it. Tie it shut with a red string. Place this on the altar for
use during the rite. The cauldron should also be there or nearby. For
outdoor rituals, light a fire however small and drop the pouch into this.
Midsummer is practically the classic time to perform magicks of all kinds.
Herbs can be dried over the ritual fire if youre celebrating outdoors. Leap
the fire for purification and renewed energy.
Fresh fruits are standard fare for Midsummer.
o Circle Traditions: Cauldron, ringed with flowers (or filled with fresh
water and flowers); sword plunged into cauldron; bonfire leaping;
drying herbs over the balefire.
o Colors: White

Lughnasadh (Loo-Nas-Ah): Harvest and Thanksgiving

Lughnasadh is the time of the first harvest, when the plants of spring wither and
drop their fruits or seeds for our use as well as to ensure future crops. Mystically,
so too does the God lose his strength as the run rises farther and farther in the

south each day and the nights grow longer. The Goddess watches in sorrow and
joy as she realizes that the God is dying, and yet lives on insider her as her child.
As summer passes, Wiccans remember its warmth and bounty in the good we
eat. Every meal is an act of attunement with nature, and we are reminded that
nothing in the universe is constant.

Place upon the altar sheaves of wheat, barley or oats, fruit and breads,
perhaps a loaf fashioned in the figure of the sun or a man to represent the
God. Corn dollies, symbolic of the Goddess, can be present there as well.
It is appropriate to plant the seeds from the fruit consumed in ritual. If they
sprout, grow the plant with love and as a symbol of your connection with
the Goddess and God.
Wheat weaving (the making of corn dollies, etc.) is an appropriate activity
for Lughnasadh. Visits to fields, orchards, lakes, and wells are also
traditional.
The Goods of Lughnasadh include bread, blackberries and all berries,
acorns (leached of their poisons first), crab apples, all grains, and locally
ripe produce. A cake is sometimes baked, and cider is used in place of
wine.
o Circle Traditions: Bread is eaten, tossed into flames, or otherwise
used in ritual; wheat may be woven into Goddess images or
symbols.
o Colors: Red and Orange.

Mabon (May-B-On): Second Harvest and Mysteries

Mabon, the autumn equinox, is the completion of the harvest begun at
Lughnasadh. Once again day and night are equal. Poised as the God prepares
to leave his physical body and begin the great adventure into the unseen, toward
renewal and rebirth of the Goddess. The Goddess nods in the weakening sun,
though fires burn within her womb. She feels the presence of the God even as he
wanes.

Decorate the altar with acorns, oak springs, pine and cypress cones, ears
of corn, wheat stalks, and other fruits and nuts. Also place there a small
rustic basket filled with dried leaves of various colors and kinds.
A traditional practice is to walk wild places and forests, gathering seed
pods and dried plants. Some of these can be used to decorate the home;
other saved for future herbal magick.
The foods of Mabon consist of the second harvests gleanings, so grains,
fruits, and vegetables predominate, especially corn. Corn bread is
traditional far, as are beans and baked squash.
o Circle Traditions: Fruit is praised as proof of the Goddesss and
Gods love; a ritual of sprinkling leaves.

o Colors: Red and Brown

Samhain (Sh-Ah-V-N-Ah): The End of Summer; The Dead are Honored
At Samhain, the Wicca say farewell to the God. This is a temporary farewell. He
isnt wrapped in eternal darkness, but readies to be reborn of the Goddess at
Yule. Samhain is a time of reflecting, of looking back over the last year, of coming
to terms with the one phenomenon of life over which we have no control death.
The Wicca feel that on this night the separation between the physical and
spiritual realities is thin. Wiccans remember their ancestors and all those who
have gone before.
After Samhain, Wiccans celebrate Yule, and so the wheel of the year is
complete.

Place upon the altar apples, pomegranates, pumpkins, swashes, and

other late autumn fruits. Autumn flowers such as marigold and
chrysanthemums are fine too.
Write on a piece of paper an aspect of your life that you wish to be free of:
anger, a baneful habit, misplaced feelings, disease.
The cauldron or some similar tool must be present before the altar as well,
on a trivet or some other heat-proof surface (if the legs arent long
enough).
A small, flat dish marked with an eight-spoked wheel symbol should also
be there.
It is traditional on Samhain night to leave a plate of food outside the home
for the souls of the dead. A candle placed in the window guides them toe
he lands of eternal summer, and burying apples in the hard backed earth
feeds the passed ones on their journey.
For food, beets, turnips, apples, corn, nuts, gingerbread, cider, mulled
wines, and pumpkin dishes are appropriate as are meat dishes.
o Circle Traditions: Scrying in smoke, candle flame or fire; calling the
departed ones; leaving food outside after ritual for the dead.
o Colors: Red and Black

And so, by observing the Sabbats, Wiccans attune themselves to the earth and to the
deities. They reaffirm their earth roots. Performing rituals on the rights of the full moon
also strengthens their connections with the Goddess in particular.
Estbats:

Oak Moon [December]:

Wear white and yellow to welcome the Sun.

Decorate altars with holly, mistletoe, and Sun symbols.
Use white candles and burn frankincense incense.
Mark the Circle perimeter with yellow candles or sunflower seeds.
o If you use seeds collect them and put them aside for spring planting
or scatter outside for the birds
Serve gingerbread cookies and apple wine or spiced cider.
Adorn a candle holder with holly, then secure a white candle inside. Name
the candle for any problems or bad habits youve picked up in the last
year. Light the candle and release any unpleasantness.

Wolf Moon [January]:

Wear shades of burgundy or rose as a symbol of family love and

togetherness.
Decorate the altar with photos of family and friends, mementos of special
occasions, and apples.
Use rose colored or burgundy candles and burn pine incense.
Mark the Circle perimeter with a pine branch to symbolize eternal life and
growth.
Serve sugar cookies and apple juice.
This is a good time to work on family issues or to secure an already good
family relationship.
o Make a family apple wreath; bless the apples on the alter using one
apple for each family member.

The Chaste Moon [February]:

Wear white to honor innocence and joy.

Decorate altars with white flowers early bloomers work well.
Caste the Circle using the wand, cleanse it with burning sage, and use
white candles.
Serve chocolates or chocolate chip cookies and milk.
White down requests for inspiration, opportunity, and fresh perspective,
then toss them into running water.

The Seed Moon [March]:

Wear green to honor the Earths sprouting.

Decorate the altar with wildflowers and spring greenery.
Use green candles and burn floral incense.
Mark the Circle perimeter with a newly budded tree branch then set it
aside for burning in the Beltane fire later.
Serve milk and poppyseed rolls or sesame sprinkled bread.

The Hare Moon [April]:

Wear soft greens, yellows, and peaches to symbolize happiness and

fertility.
Decorate the altar with pictures of rabbits, spring greenery, flowers, or
anything else that say joy and fertility to you.
Use green and yellow candles and burn fruit-smelling incense.
Mark the Circle perimeter with a bunch of wild flowers
If the weather permits, hold the Circle outside in the garden area. After the
Circle, pull any weeds and set out seedlings, plants, and flowers.

The Dyad Moon [May]:

Dress in bright colors and adorn yourself with flowers of the season
Use gold and silver candles and decorate the altar with fresh flowers and
wedding paraphernalia. Burn jasmine incense.
Serve cake and champagne or flavored sparkling water.

The Mead/Honey Moon [June]:

Dress in shades of yellow and amber to commemorate the honey harvest.

Use yellow and orange candles and burn frankincense and myrrh incense.
Decorate the altar with flowers, dandelions, and the transformative gifts of
nature. Cicada shells, butterfly cocoons, hatched bird eggs, and shed
feathers are all great ideas.
Serve lemon cookies and honey sweetened tea.

The Wort Moon [July]:

Wear shades of orange and green to honor the herb harvest, and adorn
your hair with wreaths of herbs or greenery.
Use orange candles and burn a mixture of sage, lavender, and rosemary
as incense.
Decorate the altar with bunches of fresh herbs, tied with ribbons.
Mark the Circle perimeter with a bouquet of herbs or plants and your
favorite herbal tea.
Serve herbal cookies and herbal tea.
Charge herbs and plants in the Circle for general magickal use.

The Barley Moon [August]:

Dress in shades of yellow-gold, tan, and warm browns to honor the grain
harvest.
Use yellow-gold candles and burn patchouli incense.

Decorate the altar with paper chains, ancestor photos or belongings,

sheaves of wheat, and other grains of the season.
Serve oatmeal cookies or sweet bread, and either alcoholic or
nonalcoholic malt beverages.
Mark the Circle perimeter with a sheaf of grain.
o Place it outside and leave it for the birds
Write a thank you note to one of your ancestors and burn it in incense
letting the smoke carry your message to its recipient.
Set aside some time to meditate on the chain of life and Universal
connection.

The Wine/Harvest Moon [September]:

Wear shades of purple and lavender to invoke wisdom, and create the
atmosphere necessary to call upon the Divine Self for guidance.
Decorate altars with flowering herbs and fruit of the season.
Use purple or lavender candles and burn sage, allspice, or mugwort as
incense.
Sever graham crackers spread with peanut butter, and grape juice.
Have a grape eating contest in honor of Dionysus.

Blood Moon [October]:

Wear shades of red, wine, and scarlet to commemorate the lives lost so
that you might live.
Use red candles and burn a spicy incense such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or
ginger.
Decorate the altar with animal pictures, autumn leaves, Indian corn,
apples, and pumpkins.
Serve red apple cider (just add food coloring) or red wine and ginger
snaps for libation.
Light a red seven day candle in thanksgiving to the animal and plant
worlds.
If you have pets, invite them into the Circle. Give them a special treat and
an extra dose of attention.
Soak some fruit or vegetable seeds in water to soften them, and string
them into a necklace. Enchant the necklace in honor of the life cycle.

The Snow Moon [November]:

Dress in black, purple, navy blue, and other dark colors to honor the
sleeping period of the Earth.
Use purple candles and burn mugwort or patchouli incense.
Decorate the altar with onions, garlic, and other vegetables that grow
beneath the ground. Use a childs sheet or coverlet as the alter cloth.

Sing a lullaby to the Earth to bring Her peaceful dreams.

Make a list of all the people who have done something nice for you in the
last year.
Make a charm to help tie up loose ends on any projects pending
completion.

Afterlife

Reincarnation seems to be one of the most controversial spiritual topics of our time.
Hundreds of books are being published on the subject as if the western world had only
recently discovered this ancient doctrine. Reincarnation is one of Wiccas most valuable
lessons. The knowledge that this life is but one of many, that when the physical body
dies we do not cease to exist, but are reborn into another body, answers many
questions, but raises a few more.

In common with many other religions, Wicca teaches that reincarnation is the instrument
through which our souls are perfected. One lifetime isnt sufficient to attain this goal;
hence, the consciousness is reborn many times, each life encompassing a different set
of lessons, until perfection is achieved.
The consciousness is ageless, sexless, nonphysical, possessed of the divine spark of
the Goddess and God. Each manifestation of it is different. No two bodies or lives are
the same. (Note: I use the word consciousness due to the miscommunication and
misconceptions that come with the word soul)
As an aid in learning the lessons of each life, a phenomenon exists that has been called
Karma. Karma is often misunderstood. It is not a system of rewards and punishments,
but a phenomenon that guides the consciousness towards evolving actions. Thusly, if a
person performs negative actions, negative actions will be returned. Good brings good.
With this in mind, theres little reason to act negatively.
Karma means action, and thats how it works. It is a tool, not a punishment. Theres no
way one can wipe out Karma, and neither is every seemingly terrible event in our lives
a byproduct of Karma. We can only learn from Karma only when were aware of it. Many
look into their past lives to discover their mistakes, to uncover the problems inhibiting
progress in this one. Trance and mediation techniques can help here, but true self
knowledge is the best means of accomplishing this.
If this becomes a problem, if you dont wish to know your past lives, or lack the means
to discover them, look at this life. You can learn everything of relevance about your past
lives by examining this life. If youve cleared up problems in previous existences, theyre
of no concern to you today. If you havent, the same problems will reappear, so look at
this life.
At night, study your days actions, noting both positive actions and thoughts, as well as
negative. Then look at the past week, the past year, the past decade. Refer to diaries,
journals, or old letters if youve kept them to refresh your memory. Do you continually
make the same mistakes? If so, vow to never repeat them in a ritual of your own design.
So, what happens after death? Only the body dies. The consciousness lives on. Some
Wiccans say that it journeys to a realm variously known as the Land of the Faerie, The
Shining Land, The Land of the Young, or more commonly, The Summerland. This realm
is neither in heaven nor the underworld. Some Wiccan traditions describe it as a land of
eternal summer, with grassy fields and sweet flowing rivers, perhaps the earth for the
advent of humans, I believe it exists in the far reaches of the galaxy, somewhere among
the stars where our consciousness is free as pure cosmic energy.
Because of their acceptance of reincarnation, the Wicca dont fear death as a final
plunge into oblivion, the days of life on earth forever behind them. It is seen as the door
to birth. Thus our very lives are symbolically linked with the endless cycles of the
seasons that shape our planet.

Magickal Names

Many Wiccan Books discuss the taking of a Wiccan name. The ceremonial bestowing of
such a name upon the initiate is a part of many initiation ceremonies. Afterward, the new
Wiccan is usually exclusively called by this name within the circle.
Wiccans who are members of more than one tradition may have different names for
each group. For many Wiccans, talking a new name is an outward symbol of her or his
devotion to Wicca. Its seen as a part of the process of rebirth into the religion.

To cut to the heart of this matter: is it necessary for you to adopt a Wiccan name? If you
wish your Wicca to correspond to conventional Wicca as much as possible, yes. If you
feel freer than these constraints, adoption of a special name isnt necessary, Once
again, the decision is yours alone.
Note from Lupin: I personally, as a trans individual, struggled with picking a
name. My first name, for over 2 years, was Fara-Tala. Fara/Farah was the name of my
aunt who passed when I was 2 years old and I always envisioned her as my spiritual
guide, so it only seemed right to include her in my name somehow. As for Tala, it is a
Cherokee word meaning Wolf. And wolves (along with hawks) are my spirit animal.
Then as I started to go through my transition, the name seemed inherently too feminine
for me, but I wanted to keep the meaning. So I chose the name Farah-Lupin, or Lupin
for short (Lupin, meaning, wolf).

Initiation

Most shamanic and magickal religions utilize some sort of initiation ceremony whereby
an outsider becomes a recognized member of the religion, society, group, or coven.
Such rites also mark the new directions that the initiates life is taking. Each Wiccan
tradition uses its own initiation ceremonies, which may or may not be recognized by
other Wiccans (although it should be).
To a non-Wiccan, the initiation might seem to be a rite of conversion, but this isnt the
case. Wicca has no need for such rites. We dont condemn the deities with which we
may have attuned before practicing Wicca, nor need we turn our backs on them.
Many people have told me that they desperately need to undergo Wiccan initiation.
They seem to believe that one cannot practice Wicca without this stamp of approval.
But that is not the case. Still, many cling to the idea of the necessity of initiation,
probably thinking that with this magickal act theyll be granted the secrets of the
universe and untold power. To makes things worse, some particularly narrow-minded
Wiccans say that the Goddess and God wont listen to anyone who isnt an athamecarrying member of a coven.

It doesnt work that way.

True initiation isnt a rite performed by one human being upon another. Even if you
accept the concept that the initiation is suffused with deity during initiation, its still just a
ritual.
Rest assured, its quite possible to experience a true Wiccan initiation without ever
meeting another soul involved in the religion. You may even be unaware of it. Your life
may gradually shift in focus until you realize that you notice the birds and clouds. You
may gaze at the moon on lonely nights and talk to plants and animals. Sunset might
bring a time of quiet contemplation.
Or you may change as the seasons change, adapting your bodys energies to match
those of the natural world around you. The Goddess and God may since in your
thoughts, and you may perform rituals before actually realizing what youre doing.
Many wish to formalize their life within Wicca with a self-initiation ceremony. And there is
nothing wrong with that. But if you decide to invite friends and interested people to join
your rites, dont make them hang back and watch while you play Priestess or Witch.
Involve them. Make them a part of the rites and magick. Use your imagination and
practical experience to integrate them into the rituals.
When you feel an insurmountable joy in watching the sunset or the moon rise, when you
see the Goddess and God in trees marching along the mountains or streams
meandering through fields, when you feel the pulsating energies of the earth amidst a
noisy city, you have received true initiation and are linked with the ancient powers and
ways of the deities.
Some say Only a Wiccan can make a Wiccan. I say only the Goddess and God can
make a Wiccan. Whos better qualified?

Traditional Beliefs

 The Goddess and God are revered. This is central to Wiccan thought.
Human souls go through a series of incarnations into human form.
Powers can be sent in nonphysical form to affect the world in positive ways. Thus,
we accept both the practice of magic and its effectiveness.
What is done will be returned to the doer. Precisely how this energy is returned has
been a matter of great speculation.
The Earth is our home, our Goddess. Its not a tool that we can ruthlessly abuse.
Ecological concerns are new in Wicca, but now play an important role.
Wiccans arent evangelical. We have no need to go out and spread the word.
Answering questions about our religion is far different from knocking on doors and
asking strangers, Have you heard the word of the Goddess today?
Wicca accepts that every religion is correct to its adherents. This doesnt mean that
we like every representative of every religions, but ecumenism must be the way of
life.
Wicca accepts members from both sexes, from every race, national origin, and of
every sexual preference. Unfortunately racism and prejudice does exists in Wicca:
many covens simply wont let non-Caucasians receive training and initiation. Such

racism is usually covert and is rarely openly stated, but it does exist. Racism and
prejudice in any form is anti-Wiccan. Besides, who ever said that the Goddess is
Caucasian?
Wicca is a religion, not a political organization.
Wicca doesnt charge for private lessons or for initiation. Physical objects and
services can and should be paid for, but not personal, private Wiccan instruction or
initiation. In some groups, coven funds are kept to pay for ritual supplies; this is the
only exception.
Bloodshed
Many laws state that blood is not to be shed within the circle; no ritual animal
sacrifices may be made.
Avoidance of Harm
The central, unifying theme of most laws: Wiccans simply dont cause harm to
others.
Use of Magic
Generally states that magic is not be worded for pay, as it could lead to
performing destructive rites. Magic is also never to be used to boost ones pride
or to cause harm in any way.
Conduct
Such laws warn Wiccans not to boast or to threaten others, and to treat others
Wiccans and non-Wiccans with kindness and compassion. Additionally, some
laws state that Wiccans must not use drugs within or without the circle, must not
gossip about other members, and must not interfere with the teachings of other
Wiccans.
Teachings
Some laws state that all who express interest in Wicca should be taught, unless
they begin to misuse their teachings. Such laws simply arent practical in todays
world when so many clamor for teachings.
Keeping the Law
Wiccans are reminded to keep the law and not to allow it to be broken
The Love of the Goddess and the God
A gentle reminder that were not alone.

Teaching

If you mention your religion to ever a few other persons, chances are that, eventually,
someone will ask you to teach her or him because, after all, youre an expert. This may
not occur, but if it does you have an import decision before you: to teach or not to teach.
Answering the below questions may assist you in making this decision.

Do I have the necessary knowledge and experience?

Do I have the skills to teach others?
Do I have unlimited patience?
Do I know how to pick a student?
Do I really want to teach? If so, why?
How much time am I willing to invest in classes?
How much can your student afford to spend (on supplies)?

And, if you decided that you wish to say yes to being a teacher, here are some
guidelines.
Teach what you know
Dont let teaching rule your life
Teach with humor

Teach with humility

Dont teach the ancient history of Wicca unless youre sure that it really exists
Teach with common sense
Dont think of these classes as something to be endured
Dont teach folk magic as Wicca
Dont teach to gain control over others
Teach with love
Never forget that youve made this decision to teach

Folklore

Before Time Was:

Before time was, there was The One; The One was all, and all was The One.
And the vast expanse known as the universe was The One, all wise, all-pervading, allpowerful, eternally changing.
And space moved. The One molded energy into twin forms, equal but opposite,
fashioning the Goddess and God from The One and of The One.
The Goddess and God stretched and gave thanks to The One, but darkness
surrounded them. They were alone, solitary save for The One.

So they formed energy into gasses and gasses into suns and planets and moons; they
sprinkled the universe with whirling globes and so all was given shape by the hands of
the Goddess and God.
Light arose and the sky was illuminated by a billion suns. And the Goddess and God,
satisfies by their works, rejoiced and loved, and were one.
From their union sprang the seeds of all life, and of the human race, so that we might
achieve incarnation upon the earth.
The Goddess chose the moon as her symbol, and the God the sun as his symbol, to
remind the inhabitants of earth of their fashioners.
All are born, live, die, and are reborn beneath the sun and moon; all things come to
pass there under, and all occurs with the blessings of The One, as has been the way of
existence before time was.

Marriage:

It is unlucky to present a married couple with a gift of a knife, scissors, or

any other cutting implement, it symbolizes that the couples love will be cut
in two.
o NOTE: To counteract the bad luck by giving a coin to the person
presenting the sharp object.
It is also unlucky for a partner to look over their shoulder as their partner
approaches during the ceremony; it symbolizes that, that person will
always look behind in regret.

For love, luck, health, and prosperity break bread over the head of the
bride and groom.
If you change the name but not the letter, you marry for worse and not for
better
Monday for wealth, Tuesday for health, Wednesday for the best of all,
Thursday for losses, Friday for crosses, and Saturday, no luck at all

Sneezing:

Sneeze on Monday youll escape danger, sneeze on a Tuesday a kiss

from a stranger, sneeze on a Wednesday a good newsletter, sneeze on a
Thursday a gift which is better, sneeze on a Friday news will cause
sorrow, sneeze on a Saturday youll travel tomorrow, sneeze on a Sunday
ask god to bless you.

The Lore of Numbers:

1: The Universe; the One; the source of all

2: The Goddess and God; The perfect duality; projective and receptive energy; the
couple personal union with deity; interpenetration of the physical and spiritual;
balance.
3: The Triple Goddess; The Lunar Phases; The physical, mental and spiritual
aspects of our species.
4: The Elements; the Spirits of the Stones; the Winds; the Seasons.
5: The Senses; the Pentagram; the Elements Plus Akasha; a Goddess Number
7: The Planets That the Ancients Knew; the Time of the Lunar Phase; Power;
Protections and Magick
8: The Number of the Sabbats; a Number of the God
9: A Number of the Goddess
13: The Number of Esbats; a Fortunate Number
15: A Number of Good Fortune
21: The Number of Sabbats and Moons in the Wiccan Year; a Number of the
Goddess
28: A Number of the Moon; a Number of the Goddess

101: The Number of Fertility.

Poems

Nails, snails, and dragons tails:

Art they good for that which ails?
Eye of gnewt and wing of bat:
Will they work for this or that?
All recipes, good Witches know
Are followed to the tip of toe.
A pinch too much? A slip up there?
And Fuzzy Wuzzy has no hair!

Instead of fairies flitting free,

Youve conjured up a chimpanzee!
And though hes fun and like to playHow do you make him go away?
This is a cookbook for my craft
Full of giggles, smiles, and laughs!
Concoctions, spells, and recipes
Woven well be Blessed Bes
And designed without out nervous twitch
By one whos proud to be called Witch!

Elder by the Ladys tree- burn it not, or cursed be!

When the wheel begins a turn, let the Beltane fires burn.
When the wheel hath turned to Yule, light the log and let Pan rule,
Heed ye flower, bush, and tree, and by the Lady, Blessed Be!
Where the rippling waters flow, cast a stone and truth youll know.
Whenever ye have a need, harken not to others greed.
With the fool, no seasons spend, nor be counted as his friend.
Merry Meet and Merry Part, bright the cheeks and warm the heart.

Mind the Threefold Law ye should, three times bad an three times good.
When misfortune is enow, wear the Blue Star on your brow.
True in love ever be, unless thy love is false to thee.
Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfill: An it harm none, do what ye will

Yellow is the color of Air:

Of winds blown strong and winds blown fair.
Red belongs to flames and Fire,
Burning brightly on the pyre.
If water is your quest, use blue
Rides rise and fall in azure hue.
The tint of Mother Earth is green,
Calm and peaceful and serene.

In your mind, these colors gel:

And they will serve you very well! [Elements]

Let Sundays sunshine smile on you

And gain success in all you do
On Monday, work on hearth and home
And garden plants that tend to roam
Tuesday is a day of war
Compete today and youll go far
If inspirations what you need
Have Mercurys Wednesday plant the seed

For money, luck, and business deals

Let Thursdays planet grease the wheels
For Venusian blessings from above
Use Fridays grace for spells of love
Count lessons learned on Saturday
And karma wont come home to stay
Always work in harmony
(Remember, too, the Law of Three)
Set magick free and let it flow
And watch success rates flex and grow

Proper colors for a spell

Make them work extremely well.
This list will make your magick strong
So study carefully and long
The candle colors listed here
And all your spells will bring you cheer!
For lustful love and hot desire,
Use a candle red as fire.

IF tranquil peace you now pursue,

Burn a bit of palest blue.
For protection, you may use the same;
Likewise, if your health is lame.
Pink for harmony and love
And perfect union from above
If to attract is your intent
Orange is what the heavens sent!
If your hold on things, in time, goes sourUse purple to regain your power
To increase your bank account
Light green candles round about.
To ground yourself and make it stick
Brown candles always do the trick!
To organize, use deepest blue,
For stress relief, a lavender hue.
Use for teal for balance, peach for friends
Black puts bad habits at an end.
Use white if you must substitute:
It contains all hues of color suit.
Winds blow cold and winds blow warm
Gentle breezes with their charm
Stormy gales and hot winds, too
Work their magick just for you
For new beginnings, try the East
Write rituals until its ceased
The South, its true, can bring romance
So cast off fears and take a chance

The cleansing West wind soothes and heals

It ties loose ends and clenches deals
Use the North to clear the head
To pad pockets and control the stead
Watch the wind and how it blows
Use its power as it flows
To send your magick on the way
In its breezy, dancing play.

Magickal tools are important, indeed

They bring order and form to the magickal need
Attracting, repelling, directing the shape
Flinging open the door and then shutting the gate
On the energy twitching in awesome supply
As it patiently waits for the wherefores and whys
Of the Witch as she lovingly kindles the fire
And stirs up the cauldron of want and desire

But pentacles place on the altar with pride

And cups, wands, and athames all put aside
The most powerful tool is one often forgot
For its shelved with the cobwebs and dust and what-not
It sits on our shoulders- its with us all day
And whether we work or we study or play
It brings all to action and supreme, it does reign:
The most powerful magickal tool is the brain!

The Circle goes round in our lives and our hearts

As merry we meet and merry we part
Teaching us lessons and doing it right
But giving us stars on the darkest of nights
Granting our wishes and cheering us on
As we follow its path through the days hard and long
Bringing us friends so that we may play
And laugh and converse as we follow the way

Of the Lord and the Lady and all that it means

As we work toward our goals and reach out for our dreams
At last, it returns us to where we began
But we are now different than we were back then
The magickal Circle has changed us each one
And we are reborn by the Moon and the Sun
And just when we think the trips over and done
We find that the circle has only begun

Come to use now, O winds of the East!

Whirl and twirl til the magick has ceased.
Blow through our hearts, and the energy raise.
Blow away clouds and blow away haze.
The Circle is open your power please lend.
The presence is welcomed, we bid you come in!
Come to use now, O Southerly fires!
Warm light, pure strength add flame to desires.

Cleanse and purify all thoughts mundane.

Protect well this Circle with your pure light and flame.
The Circle is open your power please lend.
Your presence is welcomed, we bid you come in!
Come now, O waters of the Northern port!
Tides rise and fall, and all harm abort.
Wash away troubles and rinse away pain.
Wash over our spirits with your oceans and rain.
The circle is open your power please lend.
Your presence is welcomed, we bid you, come in!
Come, earthly power, to us from the West!
Lend your strength and stability please give us your best.
As your soil is fertile, this Circle shall be.
Nourish all works, as you nourish the tree.
The Circle is open your power please lend.
Your presence is welcomed, we bid you come in!

O twirling breezes and winds of East

Who protected this circle and witnessed all feats
Of magick performed and all blessings poured out
We thank you for coming and gathering about
But now comes the time for this Circle to end
And with love and fond wishes it is that we send
You back to the blustery realm where you reign
Farewell and goodbye til we see you again.

O Southern Fires and bright, dancing flames

Who protected this Circle and witnessed all claims
Of magick performed and all blessings poured out
We thank you for coming and gathering about
But now comes the time for this Circle to end
And with love and fond wishes it is that we send
You back to the blustery realm where you reign
Farewell and goodbye til we see you again.
O oceans and rainstorms and streams of the North
Who protected this circle and witnessed all its worth.
Of magick performed and all blessings poured out
We thank you for coming and gathering about
But now comes the time for this Circle to end
And with love and fond wishes it is that we send
You back to the blustery realm where you reign
Farewell and goodbye til we see you again.
O western forests, and mountains, and plains
Who protected this Circle and witnessed all gains
Of magick performed and all blessings poured out
We thank you for coming and gathering about
But now comes the time for this Circle to end
And with love and fond wishes it is that we send
You back to the blustery realm where you reign
Farewell and goodbye til we see you again.

The Wheel of the Year turns around and around

Spinning and rolling with nary a sound
Thirteen new Moons chart a course through the night
Marking each Esbat as they soar in flight
We cherish their fullness, rising so high
Then sing them back down right out of the sky
The Sabbats, in turn, mark points on the Year
Bringing eight major festivals greeted with cheer

We start out with Samhain, and then we add Yule

Then Imbolc, Ostara, and Beltane do rule
Along comes Midsummer the peak of Sun
And Lughnasadh and Mabon, when harvests are done
And then, once again, the Wheel turns anew
Bringing its magick to all that we do

Closing

O daughters and sons of the earth, adore the Goddess and God and be blessed with
the fullness of life.
Run the rites with love and joy, and the Goddess and God will bless you with all that you
need. But those who practice dark magick shall know their greatest wrath.
Remember that you are of the Wicca. Nor more do you trod the ways of doubt. You walk
the path of light, ever climbing from shadow to shadow to the highest realm of
existence.
Live fully, for that is the purpose of life. Refrain not from earthly existence. From it we
grow to learn and understand, until such time that we are reborn to learn more,
repeating this cycle till we have spiraled up the path of perfection and can finally call the
Goddess and God our kin.

Walk the field and forests; be refreshed by the cool winds and the touch of a nodding
flower. The moon and sun sing in the ancient wild places: the deserted seashore, the
stark desert, the roaring waterfall. We are of the earth and should revere her, so do her
honor.
Celebrate the rites on the appropriate days and season, and call upon the Goddess and
God when the time is meet, but use the Power only when necessary, never for frivolous
ends. Know that using the Power for harm is a perversion of life itself.
But for those who love and magnify love, the richness of life shall be your reward.
Nature will celebrate.
So love the Goddess and God, and harm none!