A PLEA FOR INITIATION STANDARDS
I'm full of radical ideas. I think the terms "Priest, Priestess,
High Priest and High Priestess" are more than titles. I think
being a member of the Priesthood means more than status. I think
a coven is more than a study group, or a social gathering. I think
being a Witch is more than a protest against the patriarchy.
I think receiving a First Degree should mean you have worked and
studied and grown and dedicated yourself to your path and your
Gods. I think an initiation should mean something.
I know of a young man who received a third degree after having
proved he could lead a ritual. That's all he had to do, lead a
ritual.
I know of a woman who claims third degrees in both the English and
American traditions of a well-known tradition. She shows
absolutely none of the qualities by which one usually recognizes a
High Priest or High Priestess.
I know of a woman who refused to accept the standards set by her
High Priestess, who threw a fit when she didn't get her First on
demand. She went to another teacher, secretly received her First,
and a year later, her Second. Considering her attitude toward her
first teacher, I have absolutely no faith that she did any work to
earn her second. Yet she calls herself a High Priestess.
When two members of Sothistar received their first degrees last
year, they had: studied and worked with the five magical
elements, worked at developing personal relationships with the
Gods, studied astrology, symbology, qabala, Tarot (both as a
divinational and meditational tool), several forms of divination,
writing rituals, leading rituals, drawing down the Moon, basic
spell-casting and various methods,ethics, the Egyptian deities and
mythology, ritual etiquette, the laws of the coven, the use of
stones and crystals, meditation, conducting rituals, the meaning
and duties of the priesthood, and the use of chants and songs.
Both had chosen (or been chosen by) deities to whom they wished to
make a special dedication. Both had proven their loyalty to the
coven and the Craft. Both had served as vessels for both the God
and the Goddess, and both had led rituals. After all of this,
they received First Degree.
Am I saying that mine is the only way--that if your coven does not
study these subjects your initiations aren't valid? Certainly
not! I am saying that our tradition has standards for initiation.
Many other covens have standards--some more stringent and some
less demanding than mine. What I am saying is that I wish
everyone had standards.
Why? Because when you have standards, the initiations you give
mean something.
908
When we took the two mentioned above around to the four quarters and
pronounced them Priest/ess, they could not have been prouder of their
achievement. Nor could we. We had no doubt they could serve as
competent dedicated Priest and Priestess in a ritual. In the time
since, they've proved it over and over. When they make Second
Degree, and Third, and eventually have a coven of their own, they'll
continue to make us proud. When they represent the coven other
places, they do so in a manner that reflects well on the coven.
I've met many First Degrees of other covens who did not reflect well
on their teachers. (I've also met many who have.)
You ask again, Why? I'll give you a personal reason--because it
irritates the hell out of me that the people mentioned at the
beginning of this article can put their noses in the air and claim
a higher status in the Craft than my two dedicated, hard-working,
sincere students.
Once upon a time, a high school diploma meant something. You
couldn't get a decent job without one. These days, it means
nothing. These days, a Bachelor's Degree doesn't mean much. I
don't want that to happen to initiations!
Perhaps I should discuss what I think initiation is. A true
initiation is not a ritual, it is not entrance into a club,
it is not just a dedication. An initiation is a spiritual step to
a higher stage in spiritual growth. There are many such steps.
Such "initiations" are not given by High Priest/esses. They are
given by the Gods. An initiation ritual is an acknowledgment by a
coven leader that the Initiate has, in that leader's opinion,
reached a certain stage in spiritual growth.
Coven leaders are not omniscient. Although I'm sure such leaders
strive to serve as worth representatives of the God and Goddess,
they (the coven leaders) are not the God and Goddess. All of them
must find their own ways of determining whether their students
have achieved this growth. They must also give what guidance they
can to those attempting to achieve it. Our study program includes
many things not mentioned above, exercises and spiritual work
that, we hope will help our students reach that goal. If our
students apply themselves to all they are given to do, it is
possible for them to reach that stage. When we give a first
degree initiation, we are saying that the Initiate is *already* a
Priest/ess of the Goddess.
I do not ask that all covens adopt our particular standards. I do
plead with you to *have* standards beyond simple attendance at
ritual for a year and a day. Insist that they work hard, that
they learn and grow, that they struggle, that they strive, that
they become, in your opinion, worthy servants of the Gods.
Some months ago, I mentioned this to two leaders of a newly-formed
group north of here. Their eyes lit up and they said "You can
help us. We were just talking about setting standards!" No true
standards had been set for their initiations, and they felt the
lack. Oh, they had third degrees from their teacher, but they
wanted more meaning for those they gave than was given to their
own. Bravo! There's hope for the Craft yet!
Ellen Cannon Reed
AN OPEN LETTER TO A WITCH
909
I do not know what Tradition you follow. That does not matter.
Indeed, for all I know, you may not follow any of the traditions. You
may be one of those many lonely ones who, for whatever reason, must
worship by 'feel' rather than through any formal coven training or
participation. But whoever you are, and however you worship, all that
matters to me is that you hold
true to the God and the Goddess. My purpose in writing this letter is
to enjoin your aid in destroying that which cripples our Craft.
Dissension is the disease. It is not a cancer,
for it can be cured; and, as with most herbal cures, the best
treatment is that administered internally.
Friend,help spread theBrotherhood andSisterhood ofthe Craft.
do not seek to establish a scale of Wicca purism, (for no two Witches
will ever agree on the relative positions on the scale of even their
own tradition.) There is no one religion for all people, and THERE IS
NO ONE TRADITION FOR ALL WITCHES! Let this be understood, and
accepted. Choose your own path and
leave your neighbor to choose his. Remember the primary tenet: "AN
IT HARM NONE, DO WHAT THOU WILT."
Yetnever forget:"An it harmnone..." If your pathleads to sex
rites, to homosexuality, to phallic-initiation...do not pt it foreward
as "THE WICCAN WAY". It is only A Wiccan way, one of MANY. And by
the same token, if a path so presented is not your way, do not decry
it simply because it is not your way. Who are you to say another is
wrong, so long as it harms none.
Strive for honesty, friend. Do not make false Craft claims,
whether of position, heredity, lineage, or whatever. If you have a
quarrel with someone, seek out the one you disagree with, rather than
utilize perhaps unreliable intermediaries. do not spread unfound
rumors and question those who do so. News of battle makes more
exciting reading than news of peace. Why, then, provide battle news
for publication when the serenity of the Craft is what we should be
showing?
We have come along way, myfriend, in a fewshort years. Let
us move on along our chosen paths till we emerge - as we will -
accepted and respected by ALL as a religion in our own right.
Help usbring anend to washingour dirty linenin public. There
will always be disagreements, there will always be those who cannot
tolerate others, but they are in the minority and so they should
remain, if you wish. But do not deny them their right to those
differences.
Friend, weare Children ofthe Universe, andChildren ofthe God
and the Goddess. Let us try to remember that, and live in Peace.
Blessed Be, and Merry Part!
910
MAY DAY CHANT ONE
Here we come apiping,
In Springtime and in May;
Green fruit aripening,
And Winter fled away.
The Queen she sits upon the strand,
Fair as lily, white as wand;
Seven billows on the sea,
Horses riding fast and free,
And bells beyond the sand.
Valiente, Doreen; "Witchcraft for Tomorrow"; Phoenix Publishing 1985
MAY DAY CHANT Two
The High Priestess and High Priest lead a ring dance around the
bonfire. Start out with "A Tree Song" from Rudyard Kipling's "Weland's
Sword" story in "Puck of Pook's Hill".
"Oh, do not tell the Priest of our Art,
Or he would call it sin;
But we shall be out in the woods all night,
A conjuring summer in!
And we bring you news by word of mouth
For women, cattle and corn
Now is the dun come up from the South
With Oak, and Ash and Thorn!"
Farrar, Janet and Stewart; "Eight Sabbats For Witches"; Robert Hale
1983
STAG CALL also MAYCHANT THREE
The men gather around the fire, next to their partners, and they say
in unison:
"I am the stag of seven tines;
I am a wide flood on the plain;
I am a wind on the deep waters;
I am a shining tear of the sun;
I am a hawk on a cliff;
I am fair among flowers;
I am a god who sets the head afire with smoke."
Graves, Robert; "The White Goddess"; Farrar 1970
Transcribed to computer files by Seastrider
911
CRYSTALS & STONES
Gemstoneshave beenusedforcenturiesas meditationalaidsand
magical magical foci. Each individual type of stone has different
properties. Here are some healing and spiritual properties from a
list I have. These descriptions are based on ancient legend and lore:
AGATE: Moss Agates considered to be most powerful. Aid in
restoration of energy, used in healing, and believed to bring wearer
happiness, wealth, health, and long life. Increases
ability to ward off self-induced anger and inner bitterness.
Carnelian-gives protection and energy. Moss green-balances emotional
energy. Moss red-balances physical energy. Blue lace-gives
tranquility.
Amber: Powerful healing stone with large amount of organic
energy. In ancient times, ground to a powder and mixed with honey or
oil of roses for various physical problems. Filters germs and
infections and has the power to disinfect. Worn around the neck to
help fight infection and respiratory diseases. Lifts the spirits.
Apatite: Promotes communication and mental clarity.
Amethyst: Increases spiritual awareness, has a calming and
soothing influence, has the ability to transmute negative into
positive, and is very effective as a healing stone. Warmed and placed
on the forehead and temples, it is good for headaches. Has the
ability to draw through it forces directed towards the body and repels
vibrations which the body doesn't need, thus releasing only the energy
patterns beneficial to the body. Best worn in healing near the heart
center. Opens up spiritual and psychic centers. Helps prevent
drunkeness.
Aquamarine: Calms nervous tension. Calming effects of the sea.
Used to help banish fears and phobias. Means seawater.
Soothing and cleansing.
Adventurine: Increases perception and creative insight.
Stimulates opportunity and motivation.
Azurite: Powerful healing stone, invokes spiritual guidance,
opens psychic eye. Good for dreams and improving psychic ability.
Bloodstone: Stimulates flow of energy for healing blood
circulation, stops hemorrhaging. Removes emotional blockages.
Citrine: Stimulates openness and accelerates the awakening of the
mind. An aid to the digestive system. Helps eliminate
toxins. Encourages tremendous healing on the emotional and mental
levels, helps unblock subconscious fears, and serves as a natural
relaxant.
Coral: Balances physical energy and relaxes tensions. Carries
the creative vibrations of the sea.
912
Emerald: Promotes creativity, stimulates perception and insight,
and strengthen memory. Beneficial effect on the eyes.
Garnet:Balances hormones, goodfor mentaldepression, enhances
self-esteem, alleviates bad dreams, and encourages success in
business. Thought to assist in seeing into past incarnations.
Hematite: Calmingto the emotions. Worn as an amuletto confer
strength and procur favorable legal judgements. In Egypt, used to
reduce inflammation and treat hysteria. Considered to be a grounding
stone. Helps maintain balance between body, mind, and spirit.
Ivory: Spiritual protection.
Jade:Stimulates practicality,wisdom,and universalattunement.
Thought to provide a link between the spiritual and the mundane. Most
revered by the Chinese.
Jasper: For energy balancing of emotions and stress.
Flourite: Opens andsoftens the wayfor the useof otherstones.
Excellent used in aquariums-provides needed minerals.
Lapis Lazuli: Stimulates wisdom, truthfulness, & psychic
experiences, healing and strengthening when worn next to the skin.
Strengthens mind and body to spiritual awareness.
Malachite: often used asa child's talisman to sleepsoundly &
protect from bad dreams. Stimulates clear vision and insight,
represents hope and inner peace, believed to protect from danger.
Increases abundance in all areas of life.
Moonstone: Bringsgood fortune. Reflects the wearersbeing and
feelings. Promotes unselfishness. Opens the heart to humanitarian
love and hope. Good for protection while travelling on water. Gives
clarity to spiritual understanding. Good for pre-menstrual symptoms
and balancing to the reproductive system. Used to ease childbirth.
Pearl:Stimulates feminine qualities,used to focus attention,
helps pull together mental and spiritual forces, peace of mind.
Represents purity, modesty, & gentleness.
Peridot: Dispels fears, guilt, and depression. Used to
counteract negative emotions and healing of the spirit. Affects top
three chakras. Once worn as a means of gaining foresight and divine
inspiration.
QUARTZ: Amplifiesthe healing energyof the one usingit. Used
to help draw out pain. Able to tap into the energies of the
universe. A good stone for meditating on. Works primarily with the
Third Eye center, also relates well with the heart center. To be able
to tune into the quartz promotes clarity while concentrating on it.
Also affects the crown chakra. Very potent and often worn to protect
from negative vibrations. Cleanse regularly. Rudilated-rutile
needles help focus attention. Smoky-good for calming the mind.
Rose-vibrations of universal love & inner serenity.
Ruby: Increases vigor, renews vitality and cleanses the blood.
The stone of courage.
913
Topaz: Calms emotions, protects against external stresors. To
restore physical energy & quiet emotional nature.
Tiger Eye: Very powerful protection, clarity of thought.
Tourmaline: Causes the wearer to be more flexible, more
understanding and more objective in purpose and reason. Calming.
Each person has a different response to this stone. Causes a
reaction in the intestinal tract. Black and Crystal-removes
negativity and cleanses. Some say it should not be worn as jewelry.
Electric and magnetic properties.
Turquoise: Vibratescalmingradiations, protective,andrestores
healthy mental attitude. Stone of friendsship. Balancing and
healing. Great strength and vitality. Takes on characteristics of
the wearer.
914
CRYSTALS & STONES
NAME COLOR CHAKRA USES
AMETHYST Violet Crown Calming,grounding, a
cleanser and spiritual
stimulator, yin/yang
balance, strengthens
heart, cleanses liver of
toxins, excellent for lung
problems.
ADVENTURINE Green Heart Soothes emotions,
used for the heart and
heartache, for acceptance o f
self and others, for inner
peace.
AGATE Varied Solar- Compelstruth, promotes
Plexus, good manners, happiness,
intelligence, prosperity.
Heart
longevity, fertility,
and
good
health,
affects stomach,
throat, heart.
AZURITE- Blue-green Heart, Allpurpose healing
stone, affects
MALACHITE Crown ethericbody,parathyroid
glands, nerve, spleen,
pancreas, used to release
repressed emotions and f o r
physical detoxing.
BLOODSTONE Green-red Root Offers courage,
endurance, harmony, used t o
stop bleeding, helps i n
making decisions, used f o r
iron deficiency, in t h e
blood, for moving kundalini
energy, and to invoke
peace in all who are drawn
to it.
CITRINE Golden Solar- Generates radiant, happy
Plexus vibrations, helps
thoughts to be clear and
emotions controlled,
raises thinking to
intuitive levels, on a
physical level it can be used
to help eliminate
toxins from the colon, gall
bladder and kidneys a n d
entire eliminative
system.
915
CHRYSOPRASE Green Solar- Has a quality of
compassion and a
Plexus,
capacity
for
fine
attunement works
Heart
on
the
solar
plexus
and
heart areas to sooth
emotions, will help
tranquilize many forms of a n d
neurosis, also used t o
absorb or deflect unwanted
energies.
FLOURITE Clear, Crown, Multi-dimensional
stone, balances
Blue,
3rd
Eyeandintegrateslower
(human) self
Purple withhigher(spiritual)
self, good for meditation over
3rd eye chakra, works well
with virulent diseases.
GARNET Red Root Stimulates happiness,
peace, balance, patience,
inspiration, persistence, good
for rebirthing,
menstruation and life
passages, disorders,
fertility, eases arthritis
pain.
HEMATITE Grey-black Root A verygrounding stone,
very cooling to the
physical body, use for
fevers, alleviates worry a n d
anxiety as it allows f o r
mental clarity, often known
as the "worry stone".
HERKIMER Clear Crown Very balancing special
variety of quartz crystal
"DIAMOND" works with yin/yang
energies,
often
known
as
the "Dream Crystal", aids
in bringing teachings of
the dream state into
conscious awareness, very
highly attuned
spiritually.
KYANITE Blue, Crown, Aligns all chakras,
if so directed
Black
3rdEye
can
openchakras(energy
centers in the body),
dispells frustration and
anger, excellent attunement
stone, good for meditating,
aids in p a s t l i f e
regression.
LAPIS Blue Throat, Used over 3rdeye
916
(brow) chakra,
LAZULI 3rd Eye assists in opening
and clarifying
(Brow)
inner
vision,
provides
strength, vitality and
self-assurance, used for
disorders of the throat,
heart,spleen, blood, skin a n d
to counter effects of
stroke and epilepsy, also good
for dream work.
LITHIUM Lavender Crown, Helps to reduce stress
and ease depression,
with Pink Solar- relates to cycles of
Tourmaline
Plexus
birth
and
deathand
eases
transition, good
preparatory stone inner
spiritual work, on physical
helps with digestion.
MOONSTONE White Crown Has avery calming effect
on the emotions,
Pastel stimulatesthe pineal
gland, assists in
stimulating the feeling
(intuitive) nature, eases
menstrual pain, alleviates
many degenerative
conditions in the skin,
hair, eyes, and body fluids
(tears, digestive juices).
OBSIDIAN Black- Used tosharpen both the
internal and external
Snowflakevision,oneofthemost
important "teachers" of
the New Age stones,
teaches one the truth of
oneself in relation to ones
ego, depicts the contrasts
of life-day and night,
darkness and light, truth
and error.
PERIDOT Green Heart, Promotes digestion,
eases ailments
Yellow/ Brow inthedigestive
system, used for
Green forprotection,
prosperity, emotional
calming, purifies,
balances.
PHANTOM Clear All Very powerful tool
for the New Age,
Redor used togroundand
center while
917
Yellow attuning to higher
spiritual energies, in
healing work used to
disperse congested energies.
PYRITE Gold Solar- Hasa very protecting,
shielding aspect which
Plexus
works
on
the
physical,
mental, emotional levels.
Shields from many forms o f
negative energy, strengths
circulatory system, clears
oxygen in the blood.
QUARTZ Clear Trans- All-purpose, all
healing, amplifies
personal
thought-forms,
transmutes energy
point
and
forms
protective
shield around auric
field, excellent for
meditation stone, color work,
aura work, very
energizing.
IRRADIATED Very Absorbs all formsof
negative
QUARTZ Black energy,placed on or
near
electrical
equipment
(T.V., microwave,
computer) to absorb
harmful energies.
ROSE QUARTZ Pink Heart Comfortsheart from all
wounds, helps heal emotional
pain, enhances l o v e ,
self-love, positive
outlook, joy and oneness,
helpful for heart, throat,
ears, nose, hypertension.
918
SMOKEY Black Root, Eases depression,
fear and panic,
QUARTZ Grey Solar- clears aura, very
grounding,
Plexus enhances positive
attitudes, tranquilizes, works
well with root chakra to
release negative blocks
emotional and physical,
used for menstrual
cramps,intestines, stomach
and digestion.
TOPAZ Yellow Solar- Draws negativity from
chakras,
Plexus
protects
against
insomnia
and depression, mood
elevator, revitalizes, very
stimulating to the
creative thinking processes,
eases death.
TOURMALINE Varied Root, Works as a protective
shield, consumes negative
energy without releasing i t
into the atmosphere, h a s
to do with visions a n d
"seeing" with compassion,
good for the eyes, teaches
to expand l i m i t e d
concepts of
thinking, relates to
aspirations for higher love,
very complete stone.
TURQUOISE Aqua Heart, Known as"The Sky
Stone", is
Throat excellent for both
Spiritual attunement and
healing of the energy
centers and the physical body,
valuable for grounding as
well as for vision quests
and astral t r a v e l ,
purifies all levels of
being and is capable of
handling strong negativity,
also used for wounds and
for damage to bones.
919
920
M O D E R N P A G A N I S M :
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
To promote community harmony and freedom of religious practice.
Distributed by : The Committee for Religious Freedom, Salt Lake City,
Utah.
Thanks to LesleyPhillips andLinda Pinti ofThe Covenantof
Unitarian Universalist Pagans for original material.
Contemporarysociety isexperiencingaresurgence ofinterest
in earth- and nature-centered spirituality. Modern Paganism is a rich
and diverse religious movement drawing the attention of the media,
law-makers, and spiritual seekers. This pamphlet attempts to answer
some of the questions frequently asked about modern Pagan beliefs and
practices.
What is Paganism?
Theterm"Pagan" comesfrom aLatinword for"country dweller"
first used in early Christian times to refer to those not yet
converted to Christianity. "Pagan" was an epithet that cast aspersions
on those not seen as "true believers." Today, it refers more general
to the faith of those whose spiritual center is drawn to native and
natural religions, usually pantheistic or polytheistic, and almost
always earth-centered.
What then is "Modern Paganism"?
ModernPaganism,orNeo-Paganism, isamodern, Earth-centered
religious perspective which borrows and adapts from pre-Christian
paganism as well as from contemporary religious thought. While
reconnecting with ancient wisdom, it speaks eloquently to the needs
and concerns of the present.
What is meant by "The Old Religion"?
The term describes the pre-Christian religion of much of
western and northern Europe, which was based on the agricultural
cycles and other natural rhythms of the Earth. It coexisted with
Christianity for centuries, from the so-called "Dark Ages" up until
the Inquisition and the "Burning Times" (witch hunts) of the late
Middle Ages. It also can refer more generally to other
native and tribal religions of the world.
What is the difference between Paganism and Witchcraft?
SomecontemporaryPagans callthemselvesWitches.The termhas
many meanings, some carrying rather heavy negative baggage.
"Witchcraft" or "The Craft" is most properly applied to three broad
categories: Descendants of the European witches of the Middle Ages,
practitioners of the "reconstructed" Witchcraft of the 20th century,
and "feminist Witches" whose religion and politics center in the
contemporary womens' spirituality movement. It can generally be said
that all modern Witches are Pagans, but not all modern Pagans are
Witches. At least one writer, Aidan Kelly, has begun to use the term
"Neo-Pagan Witchcraft" to describe the largest portion of the
contemporary Pagan community.
921
What is meant by the term "Wicca"?
Oftenused asa synonymfor Witchcraft,"Wicca" isthought to
derive from an Anglo-Saxon root meaning to bend or to turn. It is more
properly applied only to those Witchcraft traditions which originated
in or derive from practices in the British Isles.
What about Shamanism?
Shamanismisnot areligion, butaset ofspiritual techniques
used for healing and the acquisition of knowledge through forays into
non-ordinary states of consciousness. Now gaining increasing
attention in the counseling profession, this journeying is usually
aided by sonic driving (such as repetitive drumming or chanting) and
often involves interactions with totemic and archetypal figures. These
techniques are used in virtually every tribal society and are widely
used by contemporary Pagans.
What do modern Pagans believe?
The centralbeliefs ofmodern Pagansdiffer in specificsyet
share many fundamentals. Deity is seen as immanent rather than
transcendent. Experience is preferred over doctrine. It is believed
that there are and should be multiple paths to the Divine. There is
no prescribed creed, but there are a number of beliefs shared by most
contemporary Pagans, summarized at the end of this pamphlet.
Isn't this just Humanism by another name?
Noand Yes.Likereligious Humanists,modernPagans havealove
and reverence for this world and the physical plane generally. The
rational is seen as important. Great emphasis is also placed on the
intuitive, however, and the belief that the physical and non-physical
worlds are equally real, and are interconnected, interpenetrating
manifestations of nature. This means that spiritual work, whether
called meditation, prayer, or magic, and whether done as ritual,
worship, or celebration, is efficacious and can result in changes in
the physical world. The majority of Pagans also believe in the
survival of the consciousness or soul after physical death.
How do modern Pagans worship?
Some groups have formalworship services or similar group
meetings. Others conduct rituals that have varying degrees of set
forms. Some Pagans worship by themselves without formal ritual. Most
contemporary Pagans hold rituals corresponding to the turning of the
seasons and the phases of the moon. Rituals are often performed in a
sacred space defined by the demarcation of a circle, within which the
celebration and worship take place. Celebrations include eight major
seasonal holidays, sometimes collectively referred to as "Sabbats".
These Sabbats, as most frequently observed by North American and
European Pagans, follow the agricultural cycles of the northern
temperate zone, and include the solstices and equinoxes as well as
four intermediate festivals which fall in between, sometimes called
"cross-quarters," on or near the first days of February,
May, August, and November. Regular public Sabbat rituals, reflecting
a variety of contemporary Pagan styles, are held in many communities.
Rituals may include meditation, chanting, drumming, myth- and
story-telling, ritual drama, dance, and so on. Deeper ritual work is
most often practiced at private gatherings, which for many traditions
coincide with the phases of the moon. The work may include more
intense raising of energy, healing work, and personal spiritual
development.
922
What about Satanism?
Contrary to the claims of ill-informed Christian
fundamentalists, the practices of modern Pagans are in no way related
to Satanism. Most Pagans do not even believe Satan exists. As a
profanation of Christian symbolism, Satan worship is a Christian
heresy, not a Pagan religion.
Do Pagans proselytize?
No,Pagansdo notproselytize.Most modernPagantraditions do
welcome newcomers. Most modern Pagans also do not discourage other
Pagans from integrating other religious and spiritual practices and
beliefs into their practice.
WHAT CONTEMPORARY PAGANS BELIEVE
while there is no set of beliefs shared by all Pagans, most would
agree that similarities far outweigh differences. There are a number
of beliefs held by the vast majority of modern Pagans. Some of these
are:
1. Divinity is seen as immanent.
2. Divinity is as likely to manifest itself in female as male form,
the God or the Goddess, in the interconnectedness of all life.
3. Multiple paths to the divine exist, as symbolized by many goddesses
and gods. These are often seen as archetypes or gateways to the
unconscious.
4. We respect and love Mother Earth as a living being, Gaia, of which
we are a part.
5. The physical world, as an emanation of the divine, is good and to
be enjoyed by all living beings in love and harmony.
6. Ethics and morality are based on avoidance of harm to other beings,
including Earth as a whole, which mandates environmental activism as a
spiritual responsibility.
7. Human interdependence implies the need for community cooperation.
8. The solar and lunar cycles and the cycles of our lives are
celebrated. This leads to the maintenance and revival of old customs
and the creation of new ones.
9. A strong commitment to personal and planetary growth, evolution,
and balance are vital.
10. One's lifestyle must be consistent with one's beliefs. The
personal is political.
11. A minimum of dogma and a maximum of individual responsibility in
all things are goals to strive for. Thus a healthy skepticism is to be
fostered, and ideas are not to be accepted without personal
investigation of their validity.
12. Messiahs and gurus are to be avoided. The mediation of another
being is unnecessary for an individual to commune with Deity.
Power-from-within is preferred to power-over.
13. All beings are personal emanations of the Divine. Thou art
Goddess, thou art God.
923
A Booklist of Pagan/Magickal Titles
I. Tarot:
A. The Tarot - Paul Foster Case (f)
B. The Qabalistic Tarot - Robert Wang (a,f)
C. The Book of Tokens - Paul Case (f)
D. TheBook ofThoth - Crowley(a,f)
II. The Qabalah:
A. The Mystical Qabalah - Dion Fortune (f)
B. The Kabbalah Unveiled - MacGregor Mathers (f)
C. The Sepher Yetzirah - W. Wynn Westcott (f)
D.APracticalGuideto
QabalisticSymbolism-GarethKnight
(a,f)
E. The Ladder of Lights - William Grey (f?)
III. Magick in general:
A. The Tree of Life - Israel Regardie (a,f)
B. Magick in Theory and Practice - Aleister Crowley (a,f,b)
C.TheGolden Dawn;TheComplete Golden DawnSystem of
Magic- Israel Regardie (c)
D. Magick without Tears - Crowley (c)
IV. Meditation
A. The Training of the Mind - Alan Bennett (a)
B. Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism - Chogyam
Trungpa(d)
C. Book 4 - Crowley (a)
D. The Experience of Insight - Goldstein (d)
V. Crowley
A. The Holy Books of Thelema (a)
B. The Vision and the Voice (a)
C. The Eye in the Triangle - Israel Regardie (c)
D. The Equinox, esp The Temple of Solomon the King (a)
E. The Book of Lies (a)
VI. Paganism, historical
A. The Golden Bough - Frazer
B. The Mystery Religions - S. Angus (b)
C. Oriental Religions in Roman Paganism - F. Cumont (b)
D. The God of the Witches - Margaret Murray
E. The Golden Ass - Apuleius, transl. Robert Graves
VII. Paganism, modern
A. Drawing Down the Moon - Margot Adler
B. The Meaning of Witchcraft - Gerald Gardner (g)
VIII. Eastern Mysticism
A. Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines - Evans-Wentz
B. Shakti and Shakta - Arthur Avalon (a)
C. The Serpent Power - Arthur Avalon (a)
D. The Tibetan Book of the Dead - Evans-Wentz
IX. Egyptian religion (all b)
A. The Gods of the Egyptians - E.A. Budge
B. The Egyptian Book of the Dead - Budge
C. Egyptian Magic - Budge
D. The Leyden Papyrus - Budge
924
X. Miscellaneous
A. The Chaldean Oracles - Westcott (f,e)
B. The Life of Apollonius of Tyana - Philostratus
C. Prometheus Rising - Robert Anton Wilson (c)
D. Cosmic Trigger - Robert Anton Wilson (c)
Sources
(a) Samuel Weiser, Inc
Box 612
York Beach, Maine 03910
-EXCELLENT source for books of all sorts, all high quality.
Especially good source for books by Crowley & on ceremonial
magick. Highly recommended.
(b) Dover Publications
31 East 2nd St.
Mineola, NY 11501
-reprints manyold books,most notably Budge'sclassic egyptian
series
(c) Falcon Press
3660 N. 3rd St
Phoenix, AZ 85012
-small press specializing in Crowley, Israel Regardie,& the
Golden Dawn. Also carries Robert Anton Wilson's latest works,
such as PROMETHEUS RISING, THE NEW INQUISITION, and the reprinted
classic COSMIC TRIGGER.
(d) Shambalah Publications
314 Dartmouth St.
Boston, MA 02116
-mainly Eastern religion & Buddhist, but also some western
magick, and recently lots of high-quality New Age works. Recently
reprinted the classic series HERMETICA by Sir Walter Scott.
(e) Heptangle Books
Box 283
Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922
-small specialty printing house issuing one volume per
year, beautifully typeset. Issued the classic ENOCHIAN
INVOKATION by Geoffrey James, which was still in print in April.
(f) The Best of Cards Catalog
Division of US Games Systems
38 East 32nd St
NY, NY 10016
-sells every Tarot pack in existence, & also has a
surprisingly extensive booklist of occult books. Good source for
Eliphas Levi & tarot material & carries many of the books issued
by the above publisher. Catalog is $2. Delivery is the fastest I've
ever seen.
925
(g) Magickal Childe
35 West 19th St.
NY,NY 10011
-excellent listing; carries Gardner's books & assorted
paraphanalia such as Abramelin oil. Carries many more books than
listed in their catalog; reportedly if you call them they can get
ANY occult book, if it's available anywhere. No, I don't have their
phone #.
(h) Llewellyn Publications
P.O. Box 64383-873
St. Paul, MN 55164-0383
-not so good a source these days,but carries reprints of
many of Israel Regardie's classics. Their catalog resembles the
National Enquirer; caveat emptor. Interesting to read for
entertainment purposes, occasionally one will find a good book there.
(i) Circle
P.O. Box 219
Mt. Horeb, WI 53572
-apagan organizationpublishinga newsletter& sellssome books,
most notably Circle Guide to Pagan & Wiccan Resources, for contacts.
(j) Dharma Publishing
2425 Hillside Ave
Berkeley CA 94704
-sellsbooks onBuddhism, posters of Tibetan Thanka paintings;
much more hardcore Buddhist than Shambalah.
These opinions are my own, & where I recall purchasingthese
books in the past. They may no longer be available.
926
TALESPINNER'S NEOPAGAN READING LIST
by J. Brad ("Talespinner") Hicks
THE BEST FIVE:
(Read these five first,they are by themselves thebest possible
introduction to Neopagan Witchcraft and practical magic that I've
found anywhere.)
Starhawk, _The_Spiral_Dance_. (San Francisco: Harper & Rowe, 1979).
Paperback, $10.95
This isthe essential firstbook fora newwitch, Neopaganor
otherwise. In fact, many new covens have been formed with no other
sources than this book. Starhawk details the myths, legends, and
magic of the Craft in a beautifully elegant, easy-to-read way. Often
found in bookstores on the "Women's Studies" shelf, Starhawk's vision
of the Craft emphasizes the Goddess as the source of inspiration, with
secondary emphasis on the Horned God. Perhaps a bit too Feminist, but
still the best introduction yet.
Margot Adler, _Drawing_Down_the_Moon_. (Boston: Beacon Press, 1979).
Paperback, $9.50
Althoughit isnow 7yearsout-of-date, thisis stillthe best
history of the modern, Neopagan Craft that has been published yet.
Includes many valuable interviews with some of the people who gave
shape to the Craft as we know it. While the book does include some
instruction in magic, its primary thrust is philosophy and history.
Keep an eye out--there's an updated second edition due out some time
in late 1986.
Marion Weinstein, _Positive_Magic_. (Surrey, B.C.: Phoenix
Publishing, revised 1981). Paperback, $8.95
I see-saw betweenthis book andthe next onefor 3rd and4th
place. Both are good, detailed texts on magic and spell-casting. At
the moment, I recommend _Positive Magic_ first for the following
reasons:
1) it is more practical, teaching actual techniques before
tackling theoretical justifications, and 2) the language is a bit
easier to follow for non-scientists. The topics covered include the
karmic effects of magic, astrology, divination with tarot cards and
the I'Ching, and general spell-casting. Its strongest point is the
section on tarot, which is the best I've seen yet. Its weakest point
(in my opinion) is that it under-emphasizes poetry and ritual.
P.E.I. Bonewits, _Real_Magic_. (Berkeley: Creative Arts Publishing,
revised 1979). Paperback, $8.95
Thisis theother"best" bookon magic. Itcovers amuch wider
variety of topics, including ritual, psychic self-defense, and many
other psychic phenomena. Isaac's approach is scientific and rational,
not "religious," and his language is often more that of a scholar than
a witch, but this is nevertheless an essential book for any student of
magic. WARNING: Make sure that you get the second edition (1979) or
later, as the 1971 edition includes much material that is misleading,
extraneous, and sometimes just plain false--the 1979 edition was
heavily edited.
927
Scott Cunningham, _Earth_Power_. (St. Paul: Llewellyn Publications,
1983).
Paperback, $6.95
Agood, reliablevolumeof spellsandcharms, compiledfromthe
Family Traditions and other witchcraft sources. The magic in this
book consists entirely of what scholars call "Low Magic"--the magic of
village herballists, midwives, and healers--and as such, it is very
practical, simple, and unpretentious. Missing is much of the ceremony
of Neopagan Witchcraft; in its place, a huge vocabulary of magic that
can be used easily and quickly, regardless of where you are and what
you have for tools.
THE BEST OF THE REST:
(Onceyou have a good background, from the previous five books,
you will find the following all make good reference books, worth
having on your shelf.)
Stewart Farrar, _What_Witches_Do_. (Custer, WA: Phoenix Publishing,
revised 1983). Paperback, $8.95
Thisbook isso goodthat it ALMOSTmade itinto thetop five,
displacing _Earth Magic_. When its first edition came out in 1971, it
was the only book on modern Witchcraft that was written for outsiders.
It is surprisingly well-written, and very thorough. Its only serious
problem is that it is very specifically Alexandrian Witchcraft (named
after Alex Sanders, its first High Priest), and some of it doesn't
generalize well. Nevertheless, it has the best-written chapter on
initiation, among other things, that I've seen yet.
Herman Slater (ed.), _A_Book_of_Pagan_Rituals_. (York Beach, ME:
Samuel Weiser, 1978). Paperback, $8.95
This is thecomplete Bookof Shadows ofa Neopagantradition
called The Pagan Way. It includes complete, very well-written rituals
for all eight of the High Holidays (both solo and group ritual), plus
a mixed bag of rituals for healing, trance work, and so forth.
Requires some basic knowledge of the Craft and its symbolism, so its
not for beginners, but it is definitely useful to any worthwhile
fully-initiated witch.
Ellen Cannon Reed, _The_Witches'_Qabala_. (St. Paul: Llewellyn
Publications, 1985). Paperback, $7.95
So far, only Book 1, "The Goddess and the Tree" has been
published, but it's already the best book on the Qabala that I've een
yet, and the only one I would recommend to a new Neopagan Witch. The
Qabala and its commentary to date contain a lot of sexist material,
reflecting their Judeao-Christian origins. Ellen Reed strips all of
that away, but in a way that is truer to the Qabala's origins and
meaning than was the offensive material. Where she changes the
traditional attributions, she documents it, and includes the
traditional ones as well.
This book is almost a "must-read."
928
Jack Schwarz, _Voluntary_Controls_. (New York: E.P. Dutton, 1978).
Paperback, $7.95
Jack Schwarzis NOTa witch,but don't letthat stopyou from
profiting from the single clearest, most practical book on kundalini-
style meditation that has been published in the West. If you are
having trouble meditating, or wish to do serious trance work, turn to
this book first.
Camden Benares, _ZEN_Without_Zen_Masters_. (Phoenix: Falcon Press,
1977). Paperback, $6.95
Outof printfor almost 7years, Iam VERYhappy to beable to
recommend it again. This book is, among other things, proof that
there is more to the Discordian branch of Neopaganism than just
practical jokes. It is also the best practical book on Zen for the
western world that I have seen yet. All of the best zen koans,
including these, are also humorous (and therefore memorable). The
book also includes MANY valuable exercises. As Robert Anton Wilson
(see below) says in the Commentary at the beginning, "If you don't
laugh at all, you've missed the point. If you only laugh, you've
missed your chance for Illumination."
Robert Anton Wilson,
_Cosmic_Trigger:_The_Final_Secret_of_the_Illuminati_.
(New York: Pocket Books, 1977). Paperback, $3.95
Inthisautobiographical work,Wilson detailshis initiation
into and experience with almost every form of shamanic magick that is
still practiced today, and draws some very surprising conclusions.
Strongest point: this is a fantastic synthesis of magick, psychology,
and physics. Weakest point: its central theme--that all of the great
mystical societies and movements in history have been in contact with
aliens from Sirius--is not taken seriously by Wilson (no matter how
serious he seems in this book), and should not be taken seriously by
the reader.
929
W I T C H C R A F T
the Magic of Ancient Celtic Beliefs
in a Contemporary Society
===================================
The purpose of this listingis to helpthe novice sortout the
reliable from the sensational in the wealth of material that is
now available on Witchcraft. I have left out old historical
treatises (records of the Inquisition and such) which are of little
value to the modern student, and have concentrated instead on
contemporary sources. This also yeilds a much more objective
perspective.
- Michael Nichols
THE TEXTS:
'Drawing Down the Moon: Witches, Druids, Goddess-Worshippers, and
Other Pagans in America Today' - 2nd ed. - by Margot Adler. Beacon
Press trade paperback.
You may have already heard Margot's voice, as shewas once
hostess of National Public Radio's news program, 'All Things
Considered'. This book is the end result of five years of research
and interviews. (The 2nd edition is an update published eight years
after the original.) This landmark study focuses on the rise
of the Neo-Pagan movement (which includes Witchcraft, of course)
especially as it relates to the values and beliefs of the
counterculture of the mid-60's, hippies, flower children, et. al.
It is the single most comprehensive study of modern American
Witchcraft in existence.
'What Witches Do: The ModernCoven Revealed' - 2nd ed. - by Stewart
Farrar. Phoenix trade paperback.
If Adler's book gives a comprehensive overview of modern
American Witchcraft, Farrar's is a complimentary look at
traditional British Witchcraft. Concentrating on the
Alexandrian tradition (which is only marginally different from
Gardnerian, easily the largest Craft tradition extant), Farrar
lays stress on the actual working of Covens and the integration
of novice Witches into them. Also included is much of the
Gardnerian (via Alexandrian) Book of Shadows. So there is plenty
here for someone who wants to begin practice.
'The Spiral Dance: A Rebirth of the Ancient Religion of the Great
Goddess' by Starhawk (pseud. for Miriam Simos). Harper & Row trade
paperback. This book shifts back to America again, this time with a
slight emphasis on feminist Witchcraft, arguably the fastest growing
branch of the Craft. Starhawk is herself High Priestess of two
California Covens and her book is insightful, genuine, and beautifully
poetic. This overview also contains specific instructions for
Circles, chants, spells, invocations, creating rituals and, in
short, everything you need to get started. And it is a
delight to read.
930
'Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft' by Raymond Buckland.
Llewellyn trade paperback.
British-born Ray Buckland can, with some validity, be
considered Gerald Gardner's American successor. Not only did he
introduce Gardnerian Witchcraft to the United States, but he also
founded his own tradition of the Craft, called Seax (Saxon)
Wicca, which has grown to worldwide practice. His early books, like
'Witchcraft from the Inside', did much to dispel negative
stereotypes of Wicca in the 60's. And 'The Tree: Complete Book
of Saxon Witchcraft' remains one of the best published Books of
Shadows to date. The present volume has a practical orientation,
with chapters set up as 'lessons', covering every imaginable aspect of
modern Wicca. The book is Traditionalist in approach, making a nice
counterpoint to works by Adler and Starhawk.
OTHER SOURCES:
'A Witches' Bible, Compleat' by Janet & Stewart Farrar. Magickal
Childe trade paperback tandum edition of 'Eight Sabbats for Witches'
and 'The Witches' Way', respectively, also called 'A Witches' Bible,
Vol 1 & 2'.
The first book is an examination of thefestival Holidays
of the Old Religion - the Solstices and Equinoxes and the
cross-quarter days - together with the rich folk customs associated
with them. The second book contains the long-awaited remainder of
the previously unpublished portions of the Gardnerian Book of
Shadows. In both of these books, the Farrars had the invaluable
help of Doreen Valiente, who actually wrote parts of the Gardnerian
liturgy. The three Farrar books taken together form the most
complete system of Witchcraft currently available. Their more
recent book 'The Witches' Goddess' focuses on the feminine
archetype, and contains a gazetteer of Goddesses that is
mind-boggling in its thoroughness.
'Dreaming the Dark: Magic, Sex, & Politics' and 'Truth or Dare:
Encounters with Power, Authority, and Mystery' both by Starhawk.
Beacon Press trade paperback and Harper & Row hardback, respectively.
If we have gained new religious insights from Pagan and
feminist philosophy, how are we to incorporate those insights into
our daily lives? Starhawk, the author of one of our principal texts,
pulls together a wide range of materials to answer this question
in two books as beautifully poetic as her first. Some of these things
have waited a long time to be said - and they couldn't have been
said better!
'The White Goddess' by Robert Graves. Farrar, Straus, &
Giroux trade paperback.
A rather weighty and yet poetic book, tracing the female
deity of Witchcraft - Goddess of Birth, Love, and Death; of the
New, Full, and Old Moon, worshipped under countless titles.
Fascinating for the advanced student. Know your Celtic
mythology (particularly Welsh) before you start, though! (If you need
a quick intro to this book, check out the feature in the Reviews SIG.)
931
'Witchcraft Today' and 'The Meaning of Witchcraft' byGerald B.
Gardner. Magickal Childe trade paperbacks.
GeraldGardner hasthe distinction ofbeing thefirst practicing
Witch to write a book about Witchcraft. He was initiated into
one of the surviving traditional British Covens, and onto the tattered
remnants of magic and ritual inherited from them, he grafted
elements of ceremonial magic. The synthesis that emerged came to be
called 'Gardnerian' Witchcraft, and it became the major cause
of the Witchcraft revival of the twentieth century. Because
Gardner was the first to deal with this material in written form, it
sometimes seems very disorganized, but its historical importance is
immense 'An ABC of Witchcraft', 'Natural Magick', and 'Witchcraft for
Tomorrow' all by Doreen Valiente. Phoenix trade paperbacks.
British Witch Doreen Valiente isperhaps best known for her
work with Gerald Gardner in creating the Gardnerian canon of
liturgy. However, in her own books, she really shines as an amateur
folklorist, managing to convey a sense of Witchcraft as a folk
religion, tied very much to the locality, the land, and the oldest
strains of folk wisdom and nature. Her sense of history and
tradition is rich and deep, and she often presents fascinating
historical tidbits about the Craft. From no other author can one gain
such a rich sense of heritage.
'A History of Witchcraft: Sorcerers, Heretics, & Pagans' by
Jeffrey B. Russell. Thames and Hudson trade paperback.
This bookrepresents theapproach of agifted Cornellhistorian.
Although Russell doesn't always adequately cover modern sources, he
has become famous for his ability to integrate a sensible approach to
the evidence of medieval Witchcraft with an acceptance of modern
Neo-Pagan Witchcraft.
'Magical Rites from the Crystal Well' by Ed Fitch.
Llewellyn trade paperback.
A book ofrites, simple celebrations of land and water, wind
and fire. Rites of passage, seasonal celebrations, magical
workings, healings, and many more. Ed Fitch (one of the founders of
Pagan Way) is truly in his element here. And it is one of the
most beautiful books on the Craft ever published. The art work alone
is worth the price of the book!
'A Book of Pagan Rituals' by Herman Slater. Weiser trade paperback.
Originally published in two volumes as the 'Pagan Way
Rituals', this extremely beautiful book is just what it says it is:
a book of rituals. Not authentic Wiccan rituals, but very nearly so,
these rituals are often used by Covens in the training of
neophytes. Like a good Catholic missal, the words are printed in
'sense lines' using BOLD PRINT (easier to read by candlelight).
Anyone who is at least part animist or nature-lover is going to
cherish this beautiful book.
'Celtic Heritage' by Alwyn and Brinley Rees. Thames and
Hudson trade paperback.
A good deal ofmodern Witchcraftcan be tracedto ancientCeltic
sources. This book, based in comparative religion, mythology, and
anthropology, gives one a clear picture of the Celtic world-view.
Drawn mainly from Ireland and Wales, the study focuses on the
interplay of Light and Darkness, Day and Night, Summer and
Winter, and all the seasonal myths and rituals that make up the great
Celtic yearly cycle.
932
OTHER USEFUL BOOKS:
'The Politics of Women's Spirituality: Essays on the Rise of
Spiritualist Power Within the Feminist Movement' by Charlene
Spretnak. Doubleday trade paperback.
Ahuge (and, oneis tempted tosay, thedefinitive) anthology of
feminist and Pagan theology. Many familiar authors here: Starhawk,
Weinstein, Daly, et. al. Subjects range from Amazons to the ethics of
magic. A real bargain!
'Sex in History' by Reay Tannahill. Stein & Day trade paperback.
It has oftenbeen said that Witchcraft grew outof an earlier
'fertility religion' and, although 'fertility' is probably the
wrong word here, it is undeniable that the history of Witichcraft is
irrevocably bound up with the history of sexuality. Like
Tantrists and many others in the East, Witches tend to view sex as
sacramental. Since this is quite contrary to the prevailing
attitudes of our own culture, it may be helpful to understand how
our culture acquired such negative ideas about sex in the first
place. Ms. Tannahill's unique landmark study will not only answer
this question but also indicate the many options other cultures
throughout history have chosen.
'When God Was A Woman' by Merlin Stone. Harcourt, Brace, &
Jovanovich trade paperback.
At the foundations of the religion of Witchcraft is the
religion of the Goddess. Ms. Stone's book is an archeological
tour-de-force of that religion, which is found at the beginnings of
virtually every known culture (yes, even the Judeo-Christian culture).
In this book, one learns about the worship of Astarte, Isis,
Ishtar, and many others. Also recommended is her 'Ancient
Mirrors of Womanhood'. Both are splendid books!
'A Different Heaven and Earth' by Sheila D. Collins. Judson
Press trade paperback.
Byone ofthe leading feministtheologians of ourday, this book
asks what are the psychological and social implications of
worshipping a male deity exclusively, while ignoring the feminine
principle in religion. This is one of the most influencial books I've
read in the last ten years. It changed my way of thinking (for the
better) and I dare say it will change yours.
'The Way of Wyrd' by Brian Bates. Harper & Row hardback.
What Carlos Castaneda didfor Native American tradition, this
author does for ancient Pagan Anglo-Saxon tradition. Subtitled 'The
Book of a Sorcerer's Apprentice' and based on authentic manuscripts
found in the British Museum, it is the chronicle of a young Christian
monk sent into the wilds beyond Mercia in 674 to record the heresies
(beliefs) of the Pagans. He is lucky to have as his guide the
Anglo-Saxon shaman Wulf. Throughout this documentary novel, the
Christian and Pagan beliefs are juxtaposed for abetter understanding
of both. Not since 'The Mists of Avalon' has a book accomplished this
task so neatly.
933
'Positive Magic' - revised edition - by Marion Weinstein.
Phoenix Publications trade paperback.
Although a book about how to use magic to changeyour life
could be extremely tedious, this one is far from it. While it is true
that Marion uses a simple and direct style of writing, it is used on
such difficult and subtle questions as the ethics of magic. She
draws upon her own experiences to create a book that is
truely positive. If I had to recommend one book on magic, this would
be it!
'Earth Power' by Scott Cunningham. Llewellyn trade paperback.
Scott is arguablythe strongest of the young writers in the
immensely popular 'Llewellyn's Practical Magick Series'. This is,
in fact, a book of spells. Practical, down-to-earth, useful,
everyday, garden-variety spells. It is the only such book in this
bibliography. Although I do not recommend a 'cookbook' approach to
magic, this book will be extremely helpful when used as a guide for
creating your own spells. Also, Scott concentrates on 'natural' or
'folk' magic, as opposed to 'ritual' or 'ceremonial' magic. This is
the type of magic (involving Sun, Moon, stars, trees, rocks,
springs, etc.) that is the natural heritage of Witchcraft. An
excellent starting-place for the novice spell-wright. His
many other books, especially 'The Magical Household', are all
highly recommended.
'The Medium, the Mystic, and the Physicist' and 'Alternate
Realities' by Lawrence LeShan. Ballantine paperbacks.
Dr. LeShandoes not deal with magic orWitchcraft per se, but
what he has to say about the nature of the cosmos is magical
indeed. He is an experimental psychologist, an Esalen veteran,
director of ESP research, psychic healing, and other projects.
His is a synthesis of philosophy, parapsychology, and
Einsteinian physics. His other books, especially 'How To Meditate'
(Bantam paperback), are also of great value.
'Seth Speaks' and 'The Seth Material' by Jane Roberts. Bantam
paperbacks.
Yet another startlingly clear (albeit less scientific)
look at metaphysics. This is probably the cream of the crop of all
modern mediumistic data: Seth is the communicant, and the late Jane
Roberts is the medium. The other 'Seth' books are also of value.
'Psychic Exploration: A Challenge for Science' by Edgar Mitchell,
edited by John White. Putnam trade paperback.
This anthology serves as an excellent introduction to the
scientific field of parapsychology. Each chapter is an extensive
review article on laboratory work carried out in one particular
sub-genre of the field: telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition,
psychokinesis, OOBE's, apparitions & hauntings, etc. These
excellent articles will bring you up-to-date on virtually
everything that is currently known about the topic in
question. Other chapters deal with the history of the discipline,
social & psychological implications, military applications, etc.
This book could open the mind of the severest skeptic. But at the
same time, it could serve as a necessary check on those
too-credulous souls who have a tendency to 'believe everything'.
934
BOOKS ON RELATED SUBJECTS:
ASTROLOGY: For the absolute beginner, 'Chart Your Own Horoscope'
by Ursula Lewis. Pinnacle paperback. The find-at-a-glance tables
and charts are worth their weight in gold. For the more advanced
students, Michael Meyer's 'A Handbook for the Humanistic
Astrologer' is highly recommended for its 'humanistic' (a la Dane
Rudyar) approach. If you want to really learn to do astrology, try
'The Only Way To Learn Astrology, Vol I-IV' by March & McEvers. Books
by Linda Goodman, Grant Lewi, Ronald Davison, and Liz Greene are
also recommended.
TAROT: 'Secrets of the Tarot' by Barbara Walker is the best of
the newest books on Tarot. You may know Barbara as the author of the
amazing 'Woman's Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets'. Bill Butler's
'Dictionary of the Tarot' is a wonderful reference book which
encompasses works by such authors as Case, Crowley, Douglas, Gray,
Huson, Kaplan, Mathers, Papus, Waite, et. al.
ESP: Any and all books by J. B. and Louisa Rhine, Gertrude
Schmeidler, Thelma Moss, Charles Tart, D. Scott Rogo, J. G. Pratt,
Raynor Johnson and Lawrence LeShan would be highly recommended.
PALMISTRY: 'The Palmistry Workbook' by N. Altman is clearly the
leader here. The book actually has hand-prints, not just line
drawings!
GHOSTS: Firstly, I'd recommend 'An Experience of Phantoms'
and 'The Poltergeist Experience' both by D. Scott Rogo (Penguin
paperbacks), who is a kind of historian of psychical research. Also,
'The Poltergeist' by William Roll, director of the Psychical
Research Foundation, and this country's leading authority on ghosts.
And most importantly, 'Conjuring Up Phillip' by Iris M. Owen, the
account of a group of Canadian researchers who 'created' a ghost!
This last title is now out of print, but if you can find one in a used
book store, it's well worth it.
SURVIVAL: 'At the Hour of Death' by Karlis Osis is exceptional.
Books by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross are adequate, but not as good. And, if
you can find it, the out-of-print 'Life Is Forever' by Susy
Smith is perhaps the best introduction.
OUT-OF-THE-BODY EXPERIENCES: 'Journeys Out of the Body' and 'Far
Journeys' both by Robert A. Monroe. The narative of a much-researched
psychic, he only
one of its kind. Also, 'Astral Projection' by Oliver Fox, and any
early works
by Sylvan Muldoon and Hereward Carrington, if you can find them.
MEDIUMSHIP: Firstly, the 'Seth' books by Jane Roberts, listed above.
Any and all books by Eileen Garrett. Plus, 'Here, Mr. Splitfoot' by
Robert Sommerlot, 'Singer in the Shadows' by Irving Litvag, and 'She
Spoke to the Dead' by Susy Smith.
CABALISM: Introductory works include 'The Magician: His Training
and Work' and 'Magick: Its Ritual, Power, and Purpose' both by W.
E. Butler. Later, works by Dion Fortune and Aleister Crowley
(definately not for the novice).
935
BOOKS OF LORE & MYTHOLOGY:
'The Mists of Avalon' by Marion Zimmer Bradley. Ballantine trade
paperback.
This Arthurian fantasy novel,which reached the N.Y. Times
best-seller list, is truly superlative. It is narrated by Morgan le
Fay and so we finally understand that strange antipathy that exists
between her and Arthur. The religious and philosophical
conflict between the Old Religion and the newer one of Christianity is
beautifully portrayed. An excellent choice.
The Prydain Chronicles of Lloyd Alexander, a pentology on Dell
paperbacks: 'The Book of Three', 'The Black Cauldron', 'The
Castle of Llyr', 'Taran Wanderer', and 'The High King'.
These award-winning children's fantasies are based on
ancient Welsh mythology. Alexander admits that the two authors who
most influenced him were J. R. R. Tolkien and T. H. White. The books
are also the basis of the recent animation feature from Disney
studios. I'm often asked about pagan books to recommend for children.
These are them.
The Deryni Chronicles of Katherine Kurtz: 'Deryni Rising', 'Deryni
Checkmate', 'High Deryni', 'Camber of Culdi', 'Saint Camber',
Camber the Heretic', 'The Bishop's Heir', 'The King's Justice' and
'The Quest for Saint Camber', all Ballantine paperbacks.
Set in the landscape of ancient Wales, the Deryni are a race
with magical powers which must fight for its life against a
medieval Church Militant. Kahterine is someone who knows what magic
is all about.
'The Once and Future King' and 'The Book of Merlyn' both by T.
H. White. Berkely paperbacks.
Sparkling books, and my own personal favorites. The final
crystalization of centuries of Arhturian romance. The books on which
'Camelot' was based.
'The Weirdstone of Brisingamen', 'TheMoon of Gomrath', 'Elidor', and
'The Owl Service' by Alan Garner. All Ballantine paperbacks.
Garner isone of thebest Britishfantasy authors, witha superb
sense of local 'color' and folklore. The first two (related) titles
are in the heroic quest mold, the third is a story about the four
'hallows' of Arthurian legends, and the fourth is an eerie modern
re-creation of the fourth branch of the 'Mabinogi'.
'A Wizard of Earhtsea', 'The Tombs of Atuan', and 'The Farthest
Shore' by Ursula K. LeGuin. A trilogy on Bantam paperbacks.
This isthe chronicle of ayoung boy who isan apprentice mage.
LeGuin, a leading science fiction and fantasy author, has some
fascinating things to say about the light side and dark side of magic,
and how they're related. And she says it very well, indeed.
'Lammas Night' by Katherine Kurtz. Ballantine paperback.
In this case, theauthor of the important Deryni fantasies
turns her attention to a historical setting: England in World
War II. There is a long-standing tradition that Hitler's thwarted
plans for invading England owed a certain something to the many
Covens throughout Britain who combined their efforts to stop him.
There is even a hint that the Royal Family itself was involved.
Ms. Kurtz's historical research is, of course, impeccable.
936
The Charge of the God
Listen to the words of the Horned God, the Guardian of all
things wild and free, and Keeper of the Gates of Death,
whose Call all must answer:
I am the fire within your heart...
The yearning of your Soul.
I am the Hunter of Knowledge
and the Seeker of the Holy Quest
I - who stand in the darkness of light
am He whom you have called Death.
I - the Consort and Mate of Her we adore,
call forth to thee.
Heed my call beloved ones,
come unto me and learn the secrets of death and peace.
I am the corn at harvest
and the fruit on the trees.
I am He who leads you home.
Scourge and Flame,
Blade and Blood -
these are mine and gifts to thee.
Call unto me in the forest wild
and on hilltop bare
and seek me in the Darkness Bright.
I - who have been called;
Pan,
Herne,
Osiris ,
and Hades,
speak to thee in thy search.
Come dance and sing;
come live and smile,
for behold:
this is my worship.
You are my children and I am thy Father.
On swift night wings
it is I who lay you at the Mother's feet
to be reborn and to return again.
Thou who thinks to seek me,
know that I am the untamed wind,
the fury of storm and passion in your Soul.
Seek me with pride and humility,
but seek me best with love and strength.
For this is my path,
and I love not the weak and fearful.
Hear my call on long Winter nights
and we shall stand together guarding Her Earth
as She sleeps.
937
Shamanic Binding
By: Gaffer Maccluiunn
There are many "heaven"s, as I see it...
One of these, which I go to for information, is the Realm of Spirit
Animals. I do the usual preparations for a journey, then halfway up (I
use a ricketywooden ladder: my teacher suggested a ladder when I was
very young, and I haven't rebuil it yet...It's had many years of
almost constant use, and I think that it's time to repair this mental
tool...), and though the ladder continues (both up, down, several
other ways...) I swing through a little hole and come up underneath an
enormous tree. The place is filled with animals (of course) and I can
find out from them, generally, whatever I need to know. There's
usually something I do in return; I was taught (and believe, since it
works for me) that there are essentially five (5) KNOWN ways to relate
to a spirit. The first rule, as I believe it, is that no matter what,
in any dealing between entity and entity, the relationship MUST be
made clear for there to be useful communication. It doesn't matter as
much WHAT the relatioship is (although I have preferences), so long as
it is clear. The five ways I am aware of are:
1. Binding by Gift.
2. Binding by Love.
3. Binding by Trade.
4. Binding by Spirit.
5. Binding by Weapon.
Since the last one is, in MY way of thinking, least desireable, we'll
start there: Binding by weapon, for me, is only used when a spirit or
entity comes to me with something nasty planned, and only if there is
no other way. It is kind of like putting the genie in the bottle (the
old Arabian Nights Genies were very tricky, and would just as soon
devour someone who lets them free as grant them wishes...): first,
you must have superior force, and superior will. And Plenty of
Reasons...
Binding by Spirit is MUCH more preferable: This is the link you have
with your spirit animals: A link from like to like, regardless of
form. It usually HAPPENS to you, rather than you CAUSING it to
happen.
Binding by Trade is offering something in return for what you wish to
receive. Not as wonderful an experience as Binding by Spirit, but
still worthwhile. It is necessary to find some entity willing to
trade, however, and for this the Realm of Animals is where I use it
most. After a while, you can get into a routine, whereupon in becomes
Binding By Gift:
938
Binding by Gift is when the shaman leaves a gift or gives a gift, in
expectation of needing a favor later. This can be considered the case
when a spirit comes to you for help, but generally I classify that as
Trade, since it is the same as trade, just the other way around.
Binding by Gift, you do the thing first: If I need information that I
think the Squirrels, for instance, in the Animal Realm can offer, I'll
leave out a selection of nuts underneath the pine tree in the fron
yard, for I know that there are squirrels which frequent it. Then,
later, I'll go up to the Animals and ask for what I need. This
originally started as Binding by Trade, where they'd tell me the
information I needed to know, and then say, "In Trade, you can leave
nuts for the Little Brothers." Now, I do it aforehand, knowing. This
is a much more comfortable relationship than Trade, as Trade is
generally a one-or-two-time thing, while Gift is something much more
meaningful and long-lasting.
Binding by Love is actually entering into a friendship (or deeper)
with a spirit. Most of the shamans to whom I speak agree with me that
the relationship they have with their Spirit Helpers/Guides is a love
or lover relationship. Some explain that they are soul-mated to their
guides. This makes sense to me, and is the last form of relationship
of which I am aware in this context.
Hope this was interesting. Let me know.
Tapadh Leibh.
Gaffer.
939
SPIRITUALITY
In order to facilitate clearer communication in an area that very
often becomes very "fuzzy" because of specialized or unclear
definitions, let us now define the term Spirituality and the sense of
its use here. The term "spirituality" (as used here) is reserved for
situations that involve personal experiences of unique dimensions of
reality that give one's life and general existence a numinous quality.
Jung used the term "numinous" for the description of experiences that
feel sacred, holy, or out of the ordinary (in the sense of a special
feeling of ultimate meaning or reality). Therefore, spirituality
characterizes individual relationship to the universe and does not
necessarily require a formal structure, collective ritual, or
mediation by a priest or other external authority figure.
Religionis a form of organized groupactivity that may or may
not be conducive to (or even supportive of) true spirituality,
depending on the degree to which it provides a context for personal
discovery and experience of the numinous dimensions of reality. While
at the root of most great religions are the direct visionary
revelations of their founders, prophets, seers, and saints, in many
instances religions have lost their connection with this vital core
over time.
Experiencesand mentalstatesinvolving personalencounters with
the numinous dimensions of consciousness are of two different types.
Included in the first are experiences of the "immanent divine", or
perceptions of divine intelligence expressing itself in the world of
everyday reality. All of creation - people, animals, plants, and
inanimate objects - seems to be permeated by the same cosmic essence
and divine light. A person in this state suddenly sees that
everything in the universe is a manifestation and expression of the
same cosmic energy and that separation and boundaries are illusory.
In theology, this is called Monism. This is also the core experience
of the "all is illusion" claim in some belief systems.
Experiences in the second category do not represent a different
perception of what is already known but reveal a rich spectrum of
dimensions of reality that are ordinarily hidden from human awareness
and are not available in the everyday consciousness. These can be
referred to as experiences of the "transcendent divine". A typical
example would be a vision of God as a radiant source of light of
supernatural beauty or a sense of personal fusion and identity with
God perceived in this way. Visions of various archetypal beings, such
as deities, demons, legendary heroes, and spirit guides, also belong
in this category. Other experiences do not involve merely individual
suprahuman entities but entire mythological realms, such as heavens,
hells, and purgatories, or various sceneries and landscapes unlike
anything known on earth. This seems to be the nature of many reports
of Native American "Shamanic Journeyings".
940
What interests those studying practical magic are the practical
consequences of personal encounters with spiritual realities. For the
people who have had them, the existence of the immanent and
transcendent divine is not a matter of unfounded belief but a fact
based on direct experience - much as our attitude toward the material
reality of our everyday life is based on fist hand sensory
perceptions. In contrast, a belief is an opinion about the nature of
reality based on a specific form of indoctrination, or reading of
religious literature; It lacks direct experiential validation. Yet
once again we are brought up against the very
difficult problems of integrating personal realities with consensual
reality, or at least in integrating them closely enough that they can
be discussed in a meaningful manner.
Oneof thepractical consequencesof thesespiritual experiences
is permanent physiological change in the one experiencing them. There
are usually also a set of perceptual changes, as well as (often) an
ability to experience more of these episodes and not always with full
control over when they will occur. In other words, the whole
mind-body-spirit linkage takes on new dimensions and depth, and can
become very difficult to understand and manage! To be sure, no one
has an experience of this type and remains the same person they were
before.
A common physiological change that results from these types of
experiences is a change in the individuals general state of h | | |
