ADEPT: An individual who through serious study and accomplishments is considered highly proficient in a particular magical system. For instance, a person can be an adept at Egyptian magical practices, but not at all good at practical kitchen magic (or vice versa!).
AKASHA: Often known as The Fifth Element. Base Energy that everything is derived from.
AKASHIC RECORDS: Supposedly, it is a giant database somewhere that can be accessed for information on such subjects as past lives, healing, and other magical/spiritual practices. This record system cannot be accessed by material equipment, such as a PC networking a larger computer. In this case, the mind of the psychic or witch accesses the data through Universal connections.
ALEXANDRIAN WICCA: A Wiccan tradition started by Alex Sanders in the 1960s. It is considered an offshoot from the Gardnerian tradition in which Alex was himself trained. There is very specific training and ritual involved for those in an Alexandrian coven, including the Kabbalah and ceremonial magick. Alexandrians are not as secretive about their traditions as the Gardnerians are, even though they are so similar. As with any Wiccan tradition, the defining qualities of an Alexandrian coven are not always clear-cut, and further research will help you understand the details of this tradition.
ALTAR: A place where you do rituals, or spells. It is often a special table or shelf where your ritual tools are kept or displayed. Your altar does not need to be a permanent location, but can be set up when or where your needs suit. Though a natural surface works best and is preferred since it draws the most energy, any flat surface you set aside exclusively for magickal workings or religious acknowledgement will be fine. Depending on your space or living arrangements, you may have to keep your altar small and portable. If you are unable to have a permanent altar because of friends or family members, you can just set it up and take it down whenever you need to. Using small items can make this easier. Or you can create an altar space that can camouflage as just a group of decorative items. Use your creativity. There will be things you keep on your altar all the time, but during the Sabbats, you can decorate with appropriate items. Your altar need not be a static display. Changing it throughout the year can reflect your own frame of mind as the seasons change. One thing to consider when setting up an altar is the direction it faces. It is traditional to have your altar facing north, but if that is just not possible due to the size or arrangement of your living space, then you may need to place it elsewhere. If you choose to have items to represent the 4 elements, they are usually placed at their corresponding direction: Fire - South (athame, candles); Water - West (chalice, sea shells); Earth - North (pentacle, bowl of salt or earth); Air - East (incense, wand, feathers). Akasha would not have to be represented, as you are already present. However, if the person you wish to heal, for example, is not present, a picture, a lock of hair, etc. may be used to represent that person. Including images to represent the God and/or Goddess are also ideal, like statues or artwork. Sometimes extra candles are used to represent the Deities. Overall, the items you choose to have on your altar is up to you. Those following an eclectic path should feel free to create an altar that represents their own spirituality. If you are a member of a specific tradition, you may find that a certain altar layout is expected. Regardless, once your altar is in place, remember that it is a sacred place and should be treated with respect. Whether or not you let other people touch the items is up to you, but some people feel that other people will bring 'outside' energy to your tools. Keep your altar dusted and clean too.
AMULET: Also called a talisman, or a lucky charm. Usually considered an object of protection that has been charged to deflect specific negative energies or thought forms. Amulets can be made of feathers, plants, beads, etc. The horseshoe and the four-leafed clover are two examples of amulets.
ANKH: An Egyptian hieroglyphic that is widely used as a symbol for life, love, and reincarnation. It is depicted as a cross with a looped top.
APPALACHIAN GRANNY MAGIC: This is one that is only recently being heard of. Though the tradition is a very old one, dating all the way back to the first settlers of the magical Appalachian Mountains who came over from Scotland and Ireland in the 1700's. They brought along their even older Irish and Scottish Magical Traditions with them. Those two 'old world' Traditions were then blended with a dash of the local tradition of the Tsalagi (now called the Cherokee Indians.) The recipe for the Appalachian Granny Magic Tradition was then complete, though this potion simmered on a low boil for many generations before anyone dubbed it with the name, 'Appalachian Granny Magic.' The Witches of the Appalachian Mountains called themselves 'Water Witches' and/or 'Witch Doctors' depending upon whether they were personally more gifted in healing, midwifery and such realms of magic, or if they were more in tune with dowsing for water, ley lines, energy vortexes and the making of charms and potions. Often a Practitioner called themselves by both titles if they were so diverse in their Magical practices.
ARCANA: The two halves of a Tarot deck. The Major Arcana consists of 22 trumps depicting dominant occurrences in our lives. The Minor Arcana consists of 56 suit cards (sometimes called the Lesser Arcana), which assist in fleshing out the trump situations, or indicate smaller occurrences in our lives.
ARICIAN TRADITION: One of many types of witchcraft systems with roots in the Aegean/Mediterranean region. Specifically, the Arician Tradition is an Italian system and as such belongs to the classification of Stregheria, the Old Religion. Several folklorists during the latter half of the 1800's independently investigated Italian Witchcraft as it existed during this period in 3 different regions of Italy, and found many striking similarities despite the regional differences of dialect and folk custom. The most noted of these folklorists were Lady De Vere, Roma Lister, Charles Leland, and J.B. Andrews. J.B. Andrews reported that the Witches of Naples were divided into special departments of the art. He listed two as adepts in the art of earth and sea magick. Later in the article it is implied that a third specialty may have existed related to the stars. Andrews also wrote that Neapolitan Witches perform knot magick, create medicinal herbal potions, construct protective amulets, and engage in the arts of healing
ASATRU: Ásatrú religious leaders are commonly called "gothi" (male form) and "gythia" (female form). Gothis/gythias are selected by the kindreds or communities that they serve; kindreds may have one or more gothis/gythias. Each kindred has its own notion of what role a gothi/gythia plays, but generally gothis/gythias develop and lead rituals and handle kindred administrative chores. All gothis and gythias are expected to be familiar with the lore and to be able to lead ceremonies. This religion was almost completely displaced by Christianity in the Middle Ages. Although the religion was no longer practiced, many aspects survived in the culture. The old religion left as its rich legacy much of their traditional legal and ethical systems and their folk customs. Although there are many variations in beliefs and practices within this faith, Ásatrúers all share a defining personal loyalty to, or "Troth" with, the gods and goddesses of the North, such as Odin, Thor, Frigga, the land wights (spirits), and many others; a deep respect for their Germanic religious, cultural and historical heritage; and a strong determination to practice the moral principles followed by their predecessors.
ASTRAL: (or Astral Plane) Another dimension of reality.
ASTRAL PROJECTION: The separation of your spiritual (astral) body from your physical body. Your consciousness and awareness travel with your astral body. While your astral body is free, you can travel around in this world, or leave the physical plane altogether and explore other planes in the astral. Astral projection takes practice, and not all methods work for everyone. Meditation and lucid dreaming are two techniques that can lead to astral travel. Also Known As: Out of Body Experience, Astral Travel
ATHAME: One of the common altar tools. Traditionally, it's a double bladed knife with a black handle. Sometimes they can be difficult to find, so many modern Wiccans will use any kind of knife or blade as their athame. The athame represents the element fire (or air, in some traditions) and is often used to cast the circle. Athames are not used for cutting or other mundane tasks, though they can be used to cut the cake at a Handfasting.
Pronunciation: a-THAW-may or athem-AY
AURA: An aura is an energy field that surrounds all living things. Most people are not able to see this field, but some people do have that ability. Your aura is bright and colored, with the colors reflecting your emotional/spiritual state. The aura can supposedly be photographed using a technique called Kirilian Photography.
AVALONIAN: The Sisterhood of Avalon is an International Celtic Women's Mysteries Organization that seeks to balance Intuitive Wisdom with Scholastic Achievement. The SOA is composed of Hearths, Solitaries, and Nine Sister Circles that focus on research and teaching. Jhenah Telyndru founded the Sisterhood in 1995 as a reflection of her Avalonian study, which began in earnest in 1988. With a focus on research and teaching, the SOA was established to serve as a receptacle of lore and wisdom for all aspects of the study of Avalon, as well as to act as a medium for community building for all who are beckoned to her shores. Over time, it has evolved to become a Sisterhood in truth, united in a training of utmost discipline, and a dedication to re-establishing Women's connections to a strong Celtic-based Western Tradition. Through study, research, and personal workings we are once again recalling our heritage and fulfilling our sacred trust.
BALEFIRE: In country settings its function was both magical and practical. Holidays or Sabbats at which you would most likely see this type of celebration are Beltane, Midsummer, Lughnasadh and Mabon, (all Fire Festivals.)
BANE: Another word for bad, evil, destructive.
BANISH: To magickally end something or exorcise unwanted entities. To rid or remove the presence of.
BELTANE: Also called: May Eve, May Day, Ostara, Walspurgis Night
Dates: April 30, early May
Colors: rainbow spectrum, blue, green, pastels, all colors
Tools: Maypole & ribbons, flower crowns, fires, bowers, fields
Energy: youthful play, exhuberance, sensuality, pleasure
Goddesses: May Queen, Flora
Gods: May King, Jack in the Green
Rituals: love, romance, fertility, crop blessings, creativity endeavors
Customs: dancing Maypole, jumping fire, mating, flower baskets
BESOM: Another word for broom. Though popular stereotypes tend to link brooms and witches together, the besom isn't a tool used as often as some others (like the chalice or athame). It is used to ritually clean your altar or space before casting a circle. As you may have guessed, it is also NOT a mode of transportation!
BI-LOCATION: A type of astral projection used to travel in everyday reality by retaining the capability of being aware of your present surroundings. Synonymous terms are over-looking and mind-travel.
BIND: To magickally restrain something or someone.
BLUE STAR WICCA: A centuries old Pagan tradition founded in the mid-1970s. Originally established as a single coven in Pennsylvania, Blue Star evolved over the next decade or two into a collection of more than a dozen covens all across the U.S., all working in what is essentially the same framework and therefore recognizable as a tradition.
BLOOD OF THE MOON: Not to be confused with “Blood on the Moon”. A woman’s menstrual blood. The Blood of the Moon can pack a powerful wallop for you during rituals, spells, and Sabbats. If you feel spacey, try grounding.
BLOOD ON THE MOON: Not to be confused with “Blood of the Moon”. This is a sign of imminent danger to the one who sees it or a loved one.
BOLINE: A knife with a curved blade, traditionally used for magickal chores, such as harvesting fresh herbs, cutting a branch for a wand, inscribing candles, etc.
BOON: A favor, or a blessing; something fervently wished for.
BRITISH TRADITIONAL: This is actually a term for a family of traditions, specifically those who can trace their lineage back to authentic British origins. Both Gardnerian and Alexandrian covens are considered to be British Traditional groups, as are the many others who evolved from them.
BURNING TIMES: This is what Wiccans call the time period between the 1400s and the 1700s when people were routinely accused of 'witchcraft' and killed. Many, all of them innocent, were burned alive, but hangings and other torture were also common. Those killed were mainly women, but men and children were also accused on occasion. The actual number of people killed is not known, though estimates range from a few thousand to the hundreds of thousands. Sometimes whole villages would be wiped out in the hysteria.
CALL: To invoke divine forces, or powers within yourself or others.
CAULDRON: A traditional cauldron is a cast iron, pot-bellied pot with three legs. If you cannot find such a thing, any pot will do in a pinch. It represents the element of water, but is also used to house small fires (especially at Beltane). Still water in a cauldron makes for excellent scrying.
CENSER: Any heatproof dish or container for burning incense. Censers that hang on chains (Catholic style) are also called 'thuribles'.
CHAKRAS: The 7 major nodes of energy present in the human body. They are located from the crown of the head to the bottom of the torso, lined up along the spine. These vortexes are: Crown – white; Forehead (third eye position) – purple; Throat – blue; Chest (or Heart) – green or pink; Navel – yellow; Abdomen – orange; Groin – red. Smaller vortexes are also located in the hands and feet. Each corresponds to a particular kind of energy. The concept of the chakras is not specifically Wiccan, but comes from Eastern spiritual beliefs.
CHALICE: A cup, or goblet, is one of the most common altar tools. It represents the element water, and is often used during ritual to hold water or wine. A typical chalice is a stemmed glass, but any shape or material will serve the purpose.
CHANNELING: A practice wherein you allow a discarnate entity to “borrow” your body to speak to others either through automatic writing or verbally. Topics normally involve distant prophecy, what the after-life is like, the structure of other dimensions, “words of wisdom that everybody really needs to know before it is too late”, etc.
CHARGE OF THE GODDESS: Written in modern form by Doreen Valiente, it is a story of the message from The Goddess to Her Children.
CHARGING: Giving an object your personal power, usually for use in your rituals.
CHURCH OF ALL WORLDS: Incorporated Neo-Pagan churches in the United States. Among its members are people of various faiths, including the Abrahamic traditions. CAW has an international membership that includes a board of directors, an ordained priesthood (of women and men) and a fellowship of consecrated members called scions who are dedicated to the service of the church. It has a process of personal development delineated by 9 circles (stages) that can lead to the priesthood, local congregations called Nests and various subsidiary organizations. CAW promotes lifestyles that support personal freedom and responsibility, environmental stewardship, progressive and cooperative social order and pluralistic democracy.
CIRCLE CASTING: A circular boundary, drawn in visionary blue or white flames or light that protects the Witch from outside forces while conducting ritual magic. One should never step outside the circle while performing a ritual unless the appropriate precautions have been taken to cut a door. Nor should anyone step in during a ritual, unless they are following a pathway made for them. The door is usually cut with the athame or wand. This circle should never be left hanging after your ritual is over. This means that is must be opened just as ceremoniously as it was constructed. The magic circle is considered the doorway between the worlds and allows us to move between the two. Some Witches draw the circle in the physical, either permanently on the floor or for temporary use with herbs, sand, salt, chalk, or a nine-foot cord. The circle is still cast with blue or white light by the High Priestess/Priest or individual designated to do so. In some covens, each person is in charge of a particular quarter and is responsible for preparing the area before the coven members arrive. This includes cleaning the area, cleansing, consecrating, and making sure all the necessary supplies have been transported to the location. The circle cast is the basis of all rituals, spells, and ceremony.
CLEANSING: The act of removing any negative energy, vibrations or images from an object or place by utilizing positive, psychic energy.
COMING OUT OF THE BROOM CLOSET: A slang expression for letting the people around you know that you are Wiccan or Pagan. Depending on one's family and friends, you may not be able to just announce your faith whenever you please. Some people never leave their closets, and some only peek out occasionally. Regardless of your choice to remain in the closet, never deny yourself the beauty of who and what you are.
CONE OF POWER: Psychic energy raised and focused by either an individual or a group mind (such as a coven or meditation gathering) to achieve a definite purpose.
CONSECRATION: The act of blessing an object or place by instilling it with positive energy.
CORRELLIAN NATIVIST TRADITION: Based upon the teachings of members of the High-Correll family. The High-Correll family were descended from a line of Cherokee Didanvwisgi who intermarried with a line of Scottish Traditional Witches, whose descendants were further influenced by Aradian Witchcraft and by the Spiritualist Church - hence the complex sigil that denotes the tradition. Its Scottish Traditional heritage has lead to it being considered a Wiccan tradition in the accepted sense of the term.
COVEN: A group of witches that gather for ritual on a somewhat regular basis. Covens usually celebrate the Sabbats and Esbats together, as well as other rituals. A coven does not require 13 members as some may think. Some groups are strictly structured (Alexandrian or Gardnerian) but some are more open and casual.
COVENSTEAD: The meeting place of the Witches, often a fixed building or place which has been cleansed and consecrated where the Witches can feel safe and at home.
CURSE: Also known as a hex. Negative energy direct toward something in particular. Strictly forbidden in Wicca. Those who cast power against another, regardless of reason, will be stricken threefold with the same. Alternately, those who cast power for the good of someone will threefold be given the same.
DAYS OF POWER: Although usually referred to as Sabbats, there are other days throughout the year that can be considered days of power. These days can be triggered by astrological occurrences, your birthday, a woman’s menstrual cycle (also known as the Blood of the Moon), or your dedication/initiation anniversary.
DEDICATION: Unlike the Initiation ceremony that brings one into an order, the dedication of a Witch is that process where the individual accepts the Craft as their path, and vows to study and to learn all that is necessary to reach adept-ship in a given tradition. In a dedication, you consciously prepare yourself to accept something new into your life and stick with it, regardless of the highs and lows this action may produce.
DEOSIL: Pronounced dee-owe-sill. Clockwise. Used to describe movement around a circle during ritual.
DEITY: A God or a Goddess, though also used to encompass ALL Gods & Goddesses in one concept.
DIANIC WICCA: Very similar to traditional Wicca in practice, but differs significantly from it in beliefs. Dianic Wiccans worship the Goddess only, acknowledging that She is the source of all living and contains all within Her, including the male principal. Most Dianics worship in female-only circles, but there are mixed-gender Dianic traditions. Most Dianic Wiccans are heterosexual, though some are lesbian. Political action is very important in Dianic Wicca. Many Dianic Wiccans believe that before recorded history there was a universal matriarchy which worshipped the Goddess, had matrilineal family structures, and had equality between the sexes. This universal matriarchy was slowly supplanted by violent patriarchal groups that worshipped a "war god". Dianic Wiccans hope to one day restablish the matriarchy. They believe strongly in the saying "the personal is political" which means that they view their choice to be Goddess worshipers as a political statement as well as a religious choice. They believe that worshiping a male god (like God in Christianity, Islam and Judaism) is particularly harmful to girls because if the model for perfect human exisistence is male, then half of the population can never even hope to achieve perfection and will always be inadequate. Dianic Wiccans generally are "positive path" practitioners and do no manipulative spellwork.
DISCORDIAN: The worship of Eris, Goddess of Chaos, can have some startling and offbeat results. It’s fascinating, and often quite humorous… definitely NOT traditional! It would be very hard to explain in just a few lines here. I recommend that if you’re interested in this sect, go to your favorite search engine and look it up.
DIVINATION: The art of looking into the future, and seeing what may (or may not) be ahead. There are many tools you can use for divination, like Tarot cards, runes or astrology.
DRACONIAN: An amalgam of Welsh Celtic, Celtic Traditional Wicca and Wysardn Colleges, the Draconian Path was founded in 1986 by progenitor Lord Ash who brought Wysardn teachings from Europe and melded it with the workings of his Floridian coven. The Wysardn Colleges are a survival of the druids of Britain who fled the Isle of Mona and spread throughout Europe during the three Burning Times. Though Draconians abide the Wiccan Rede, they see that their path is evolving into something other than what most would consider Wicca, and thus most consider themselves Witches rather than Wiccan.
DRAWING DOWN THE MOON: A ritual used during the Full Moon by Witches to empower themselves and unite their essence with a particular Deity, usually The Goddess.
DREAM JOURNAL: Similar to a Book of Shadows, this is a record of your dreams (and those of others) that is useful for trying to interpret symbolisms and meanings within dreams. You should record not only dreams, but also the interpretations and anything else you may learn of them. Though they are involuntary, dreams are often believed to be a form of astral travel.
DRUIDS: Although since Christian times Druids have been identified as wizards and soothsayers, in pre-Christian Celtic society they formed an intellectual class comprising philosophers, judges, educators, historians, doctors, seers, astronomers, and astrologers. The earliest surviving Classical references to Druids date to the 2nd century B.C. The word "Druidae" is of Celtic origin. The Roman writer Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus, 23/24-79 A.D.) believed it to be a cognate with the Greek work "drus," meaning "an oak." "Dru-wid" combines the word roots "oak" and "knowledge" ("wid" means "to know" or "to see" - as in the Sanskrit "vid"). The oak (together with the rowan and hazel) was an important sacred tree to the Druids. In the Celtic social system, Druid was a title given to learned men and women possessing "oak knowledge" (or "oak wisdom"). The Druids emerged from the ancient Celtic tribes, at a time when the people had to live close to nature to survive. By the light of the storyteller's fire, and with the play of the harp, the Druids dreamed magic for their people. In the deep woods they would gather, bringing together their mysticism and philosophy, their insight and learning. Their spirit emerged from the tides of the sea, the light of the sun, the wind in the Oak, the cry of the deer. In this way, they created an institution that inspired, frightened, and uplifted their world. Druids filled the roles of judge, doctor, diviner, mage, mystic, and clerical scholar - they were the religious intelligentsias of their culture.
EARTH MAGIC: A practical form of magic wherein the powers and forces of The Goddess as Earth Mother are used to conduct magical workings or celebrations. Usually items associated with the Earth and Nature hold a particular significance in the ritual or spell.
ECLECTIC: Any Wiccan who does not strictly follow one particular tradition is often referred to as "eclectic". Eclectic Wiccans sometimes mix pantheons as well.
ELDER: Many Wiccan or magickal organizations have a group or board of Elders who oversee the operations of the church or group and its variety of functions. These people have usually gained their positions through a combination of their abilities, which may include education, experience, magickal adept-ship and counseling.
ELEMENTS: Usually counted as four - Earth, Air, Water and Fire. Many Witches add Spirit or Akasha to this category. Each element has a direction within a magic circle or working: East = Air; South = Fire; West = Water; North = Earth; Center = Spirit or Akasha.
ELIJAN WICCA: A primary difference between Elijan Wicca and many other forms of Wicca is its attitude toward Christianity. Elijan Wicca incorporates the belief that the Pagan 'sun' worship is the original derivation of Christian 'son' worship. Mary was the adaptation of the Great Mother, distorted when patriarchy took control. The life of Christ is a misconstrued story based on ancient Pagan mythology. This belief allows Elijan Wiccans to accept Christianity as a (distorted and misunderstood) form of their own faith. The Church of Elijan Wicca ascribes to one and only one law, which is: An’ it (or ye) harm none, do as Thy (or ye) Will.
ENCHANTMENT: A magical object that must be kept absolutely secret and hidden from all human eyes and exudes a hidden aura. Enchantments must be charmed first. Gems and magical writing are good items to use for Enchantments.
ENERGY: Comparable to “The Force” in Star Wars, this is the undeniable, ‘higher power’ that exists within all living things, but is normally immeasurable by scientific means. Some scientists who specialize in the paranormal may argue that inability.
ESBAT: The monthly celebration of the full moon. These are the days that covens usually meet, but solitaries can hold esbat rituals as well.
EVOCATION: To call something out from within.
FAERIE FAITH: As a shamanic and mystery tradition, the Faerie Faith has a training system and an internal hierarchy. This distinguishes the Faerie Faith from many traditions which center around worship, and whose leadership is usually democratic. The hierarchy of the Faerie Faith consists of those who are new (neophytes), those who have begun training (students), and those who have completed training (High Priests/High Priestesses). The Faerie Faith is a complex Pagan tradition, with its own mystical system, that of the Beth-Luis-Nion Celtic Lunar Tree Calendar. It is impossible to understand any one part of the tradition without looking at all of the tradition's different components. The Faerie Faith is a Dianic tradition, and as such places emphasis on the feminine in humanity, in nature, and in God. For ease of reading, all pronouns will be in the feminine, according to that tradition. For example, "High Priest or High Priestess" will be referred to simply as "High Priestess, " unless noted otherwise. Similarly, pronouns such as "he or she, " and "his or her, " will be referred to as "she, " or "her, " respectively. It should be noted that individuals of both genders can and do enter the training of the Faerie Faith.
FAMILIAR: Any animal with which you have a spiritual bond (does not need to be a cat!). These animals can also be magickal guides or helpers from the astral.
FASCINATION: A mental effort to control another animal or person’s mind. It has been referred to as “mind-bending”.
FERI: A tradition of Neo-Pagan Witchcraft, emerging from the work and teaching of the late Victor Anderson and his wife Cora. Originally found only on the West Coast of the United States, in recent years it has spread into several parts of North America, and even overseas. The Feri Tradition is adamantly polytheistic, recognizing many manifestations of the Divine from many different places and times. Although several Feri covens exist, the basic 'unit' of the tradition is the individual Witch, and solitary practice is common. Feri Witches strive to live according to what they refer to as the 'Warrior Ethic', which involves balancing personal freedom and love for themselves as manifestations of the Divine, with the need for discipline, responsibility, and respect for others.
FLUFFY BUNNY: A term used to describe Wiccans (particularly those new to the Craft), who only see the happy, light, positive side of magick.
GAEA/GAIA: Originally a Greek Goddess, now meaning Earth Mother or Mother Earth. Environmental action groups use this term almost as much as Witches.
GARDNERIAN WICCA: A Wiccan tradition started by Gerald Gardner in the 1950s. Many people consider Gardnerian Wicca to be the most 'authentic', but many of the details of this tradition are only available to those who have been initiated into a Gardnerian coven. Belonging to this tradition requires a great deal of commitment and learning. There is a specific hierarchy within any coven (initiate, 1st degree, 2nd degree, 3rd degree). As with any Wiccan tradition, the defining qualities of a Gardnerian coven are not always clear-cut, and further research will help you understand the details of this tradition.
GNOMES: Not just cute decorations for your garden or yard, these are astral beings that represent the Element of Earth.
GOLDEN DAWN MAGICAL TRADITION: Comes out of a secretive underworld of magical lodges in England, dating back at least to the beginning of the eighteenth century and possibly further still. From the time of John Dee (1527-1608), court astrologer to Queen Elizabeth I, English magicians had been working with the teachings of Renaissance high magic in new ways, developing a rich heritage of magical theory and practice that reached full flower with the coming of the Golden Dawn. The Golden Dawn tradition is not a religion or religious system in the usual sense of the word. Rather, it is a system of intensive spiritual and magical development, not unlike the great mystical traditions of Asia. Golden Dawn magicians use ritual, meditation, exercises for the development of clairvoyance and other psychic abilities, and similar methods to achieve direct personal experience of the hidden, magical side of reality. Like the ancient Gnostics, whose teachings form one of the roots of the Golden Dawn system, Golden Dawn magicians aren’t willing to settle for belief; they want to know.
GREEN MAN: Another name for The God, as in His kingdom of the forest.
GRIMOIRE: A Book of Shadows (Grimoire, BoS) is your own personal book, containing spells and rituals, and anything else you feel the need to record. Some traditions copy the contents of their coven's BoS, so that information can be passed down through many generations. Not everyone has access to such an antique book, and it's not really necessary. Any blank book will do, or even a 3-ring binder. You can hand-write the contents, or use your computer printer. Contrary to popular belief, a Book of Shadows is not a specific book or text. Many movies and television shows portray it as an ancient and mystical book filled with spells and incantations. Those new to the Craft soon realize that is not the case. Every Wiccan writes and keeps their own personal Book of Shadows. New Wiccans are often confused or overwhelmed with the prospect of creating such a book. Here is a guideline to help you start your own Book of Shadows (BoS). First of all, there is no 'right' way to keep a BoS. There are as many variations as there are Wiccans. Some people don't even keep one. If you belong to a coven, there may be a Book of Shadows belonging to the group that you will be expected to copy from. If you are solitary, you'll have to start from scratch. The term Book of Shadows tends to conjure up large, leather-bound tomes with metal latches and buckles. Books like that are available but they are not cheap and can be cumbersome to use. Any blank book will do, even an artist's sketchbook. Binders can be a practical choice, because you can move the pages around as your collection of information grows. Some very modern Wiccans use a DoS (Disk of Shadows) and keep their material on computer. Another frequent question about making a BoS is what to write with. Some want to keep a beautiful and traditional book, and think the best writing utensil is a quill and ink. While this may be a good idea, you don't want it to be too time consuming to take notes or record information. Your book just won't get used. A fountain pen is a good compromise, but any pen or pencil is fine. Quite frankly, it is completely up to you what goes in. The kind of material tends to fall into 2 categories: reference or personal. Reference material may include useful correspondences, moon phase dates, Sabbat information, spells you might like to try, etc. You can find good reference material from books or on the Internet. Personal material might be a dream journal, poetry or artwork, results of spells you've done, recordings of astral work, etc. Don't let yourself get caught up in putting together the perfect Book of Shadows. If you start it and don't like how it's turning out, start another one. As time passes, you'll find it an invaluable tool. One note on spells, you should always personalize your spell work, so there are no spells listed here. Make sure you are familiar with the ethics of witchcraft before you go castings spells about. You should always cast a circle before performing your spell. Very simple spells don't require it, but it's still a good practice. Using spells from other people is OK, but casting spells that you wrote yourself will give more power to your magick. It's not difficult, once you understand the basics.
GROUNDING: Dispersing excess energy from your body, frequently done with visualization that directs this energy into the ground. Grounding is done after a spell or ritual, or after astral work, or whenever you feel the need to focus yourself.
GUARDIANS: Ceremonial magicians use the Guardians of the Watchtowers or Guardians of the Four Quarters. Some Witches use them, too.
GWYDDONIC ORDER: Founded at Lughnassad 1998 when Mairwen y Gwydd separated her group (The College of the Blue Butterfly) from Trefn Gwyddoniad, an American-Welsh Celtic Tradition based in Northern California. The Gwyddoniad is a Welsh-Celtic spiritual, philosophical and metaphysical Tradition. Our philosophical foundation is Oneness: "Everything is the One, and the One is the All", meaning that no-thing and no one is more or less the One than any-thing or any one else.
HANDFASTING: A wedding between Wiccans is called a Handfasting. These ceremonies are not necessarily commitments for life, as are Christian marriages. They are usually performed by the local High Priest and/or Priestess, but they are only legal if the person performing the ceremony is also a recognized officient by your state/province. Many people have a traditional Handfasting, and then have a smaller 'official' ceremony at a later date.
HANDPARTING: A Wiccan or Pagan dissolution of the Handfasting ceremony (as in a Wiccan divorce).
HEATHEN: The term 'heathen' refers to someone who follows the Old Norse pagan traditions. Though it is a pagan tradition, it is not the same as Wicca. Heathen traditions have been handed down from ancient times, and are not as 'reconstructed' as Wiccan traditions are.
HELLENISM: Hellinikos Ethnismos is an ancient indigenous tradition born and evolved in Hellas (Greece), is not simply a Religion and Cosmotheory, it is a certain form of human consciousness and an everyday ethos and is the most well-documented of the ancient polytheistic nature-Religions. It's above all a political and social "how to" theory that means to "haunt" the Every Day Life with its high principles: Dignity, Freedom, Beauty, Honesty, Variety, Tolerance, and Candor. In the Hellenic Cosmotheory, these laws are: Antipeponthos: Untranslatable into English, but roughly meaning, "all events influence others" thought without "cause and effect"; Nomos: The entirety of the universal physical Laws; Anagke: Need and Fate, which all Gods respect and obey.
HIGH PRIESTESS/PRIEST: Technically a High Priest (male) or High Priestess (female) is someone who has reached the 3rd degree level within his or her coven. But the term is often used more loosely to describe the leader of a coven.
HOUSE BLESSINGS: Whether you are moving into a new home, or find your present home needs to have some negative energy cleaned out. These can be done in silence, and should also be used on temporary places of residence (hotel rooms, cabins, camping tents, etc.), offices, classrooms, and even modes of transportation. Some insist on short blessings for every structure or area they enter, regardless of how short a time they intend to be there.
IMBOLC: Also called: Candlemas, Oimelc, Brigid's Day; merged with Lupercalia/Valentines Day
Dates: February 2, early February
Colors: white, red
Tools: candles, seeds, Brigid wheel, milk
Energy: conception, initiation, inspiration
Goddesses: Brigid, Maiden
Gods: Groundhog, other creatures emerging from hibernation; young Sun
Rituals: creative inspiration, purification, initiation, candle work, house & temple blessings
Customs: lighting candles, seeking omens of Spring, cleaning house, welcoming Brigid
INCENSE: Typically used in stick or cone form, but herbs and resins can be smoldered directly on pieces of charcoal too. This would be the more traditional approach. Incense is used in most rituals, and represents the element Air.
INITIATION: An experience that so transforms the individual that their concept of personal and worldly reality has been altered. A dedication ceremony should not be confused with an initiation.
INVOCATION: To bring something in from without.
KARMA: The idea is that all actions have reactions, both positive and negative. Doing good things builds up good karma, and doing evil creates bad karma. The karma you accumulate during your lifetime travels with you into your next incarnation and will affect your lives to come.
KEMETIC FAITH: The modern practice of the religion of ancient Egypt. Ancient Egyptian religion is very complex. We know much more now about the beliefs and practices of the people of Ancient Egypt than we did even twenty years ago. Rather than branding these ancient people as "superstitious primitives" who worshiped an endless assortment of strange beast headed beings, we find that their beliefs were in fact quite profound and had a unique understanding of the Natural Order. It’s very easy to be tempted to think that the Ancient Egyptians were polytheists. What is true is that it is now very widely accepted throughout Egyptology that the Ancient Egyptians were in fact monolatrists. Monolatry is the belief that the many different representations seen in a religion, such as that of the Ancient Egyptians, are actually intermediaries or attributes of this Supreme Being or Unknowable Central One. At the pinnacle of the Egyptian religious belief system is a God or simply called Netjer. This Netjer is unique, Self-Created, and inaccessible in the depths of Its Own Being. The individual Names of Netjer gave form and "personality" to the Vastness of the All, which is unfathomable to the minds of humanity.
KINGSTONE TRADITION: Traces its origins directly to the Central Valley Wicca through both the Silver Crescent and Majestic lines. The Kingstone Tradition was formally established as an independent tradition in 1973, in conjunction with the formation of the New Wiccan Church. As an aside, the New Wiccan Church (NWC) is NOT a Tradition. It is an international association of individual members of various traditions of Wicca. In Kingstone, they acknowledge that all of creation stems from an unknowable Source, which is beyond human comprehension. Many of them view this Source as both immanent and transcendent. As Witches, they honor and worship the Old Gods of Nature - the Great Mother and Her consort, the Horned God. They work primarily with the particular set of agricultural/pastoral based deities of their ancestors in CVW. Kingstone initiates may also work with other additional deities as they see fit.
KNOTS OF DEATH: A number of Viking monuments feature a curious design known as the valknut, the "knot of the slain" or, more loosely, "the knot of death". Three triangles woven together, the origin and meaning of the symbol are extremely difficult to discern. It seems fairly certain that the valknut has a cultic or religious significance and a particular association with death, as it name alone indicates. The three triangles, also known as wells, are in fact only one under three different names. A consideration of their locations clinches the argument. Hvergelmir is the primordial well, situated in the north, according to Snorri's account of the creation of the cosmos. The nature of the "frost ogres" means that they can also be located in the cold north, and the central point of the revolving sky is also in the north, at the Pole Star. The Nornir derive their collective name from an archaic word meaning "north" which also denotes "that which is below" (compare English nether, beneath). The name of the goddess Nerthus (a goddess of the earth) reported by Tacitus may also be so derived.
LAMMAS: Also called: Lughnassad
Dates: August 2, early August
Colors: orange, yellow, brown, green
Tools: sacred loaf of bread, harvested herbs, bonfires
Energy: fruitfulness, reaping prosperity
Goddesses: Demeter, Ceres, Corn Mother
Gods: Grain God, Lugh, John Barleycorn
Rituals: prosperity, generosity, continued success
Customs: offering of first fruits/grains, games, country fairs
LEFT-HAND PATH: A term that points to people who feel they are justified in using magic for purposes that are not constructive, but destructive. Conversely, the right-hand path is considered positive in nature.
MABON: Also called: Fall Equinox, Michaelmas
Dates: around September 21
Colors: orange, red, brown, purple, blue
Tools: cornucopia, corn, harvested crops
Energy: appreciation & harvest
Goddesses: Bona Dea, Land Mother
Gods: Mabon, Sky Father
Rituals: thanksgiving, harvest, introspection
Customs: offerings to land, preparing for cold weather, bringing in harvest
MACROCOSM: The world around us.
MAHLORIAN GREEN CRAFT TRADITION: Has no formal beginning, is never ending, always evolving and ever growing. The founders began working together approximately ten years ago, and forming a particular tradition was never their intent. They believe that the differences between traditions are in the details of human made activities. No one is a go-between for Deity and another person. They perceive the Goddess as "The Green Goddess", or "Lady Green", the God as "The Green Man" or "Lord Green", with the Fayerie and Elementals as being one and the same. All workings in the Mahlorian tradition involve inclusion of the Lady Green and the Fayerie, with the Lord Green when appropriate. Their philosophy embraces living life to its fullest and in its most magickal form. Therefore, the core of their rituals and celebrations as well as their everyday lives are based heavily upon music, dance, poetry and sensuality. It is their belief that we are here in this place and time to love and grow spiritually and to offer our guidance when it is so desired. They view energy as natural and pure, neither good nor bad, black nor white. It is only human perception and intent that denotes otherwise.
MAGICK: The use of energy and your own will and intent to make things happen within you and in the world around you. It's also spelled 'magic', but many Wiccans ad the 'k' at the end to distinguish true magick from stage performance magic. Magic is neither good or evil, positive or negative. It is the use of the power that determines the path it will take.
MAGICKAL NAME CHOICE: A favored way to find your name is by meditation. Allowing your inner consciousness to bring a name to you. This method wouldn’t work for me because my hectic lifestyle doesn’t allow for much meditation time. Another way of finding your name is choosing elements that represent the kind of person you are, or perhaps the person you’d like to be. This allows for your creativity to take charge. When choosing your name, don’t allow yourself to be limited by convention. Trees, stones, animals, colors, planets and even herbs all offer ideas that you can use. There is no right or wrong name, nor any right or wrong way to find it.
MAGICKAL SYSTEMS: Can refer to Traditions, denominations, sects, or pantheons. It is a basic set of guidelines relating to specific Gods and Goddesses or cultural traditions.
MICROCOSM: The world within us.
MIDSUMMER: Also called: Litha, St. John's Day, Summer Solstice
Dates: around June 21
Colors: yellow, gold, rainbow colors
Tools: bonfires, Sun wheel, Earth circles of stone energy: partnership
Goddesses: Mother Earth, Mother Nature
Gods: Father Sun/Sky, Oak King
Rituals: community, career, relationships, Nature Spirit communion, planetary wellness
Customs: bonfires, processions, all night vigil, singing, feasting, celebrating with others
MIKKYO: Literally means secret teachings. It is a tradition from the Isles of Japan that is an amorphous mix of all spiritual-religious systems in Japan around the time of the 6th -9th century. Mikkyo blends many doctrines, philosophies, deities, religious rituals, and meditation techniques from a wide variety of sources over a thousand years time. From Shinto came beautiful ritual and an approximation of over 3 million deities (how's that for a selection of pantheons!), from Shingon Buddhism came rich text and another 108 centralized deity figures (the majority from Hinduism). Also, from Shingon Buddhism came the introduction of "mind sciences" and specific meditation practices, mudras, mantras, and mandalas. Shugendo gave Mikkyo its mystical and occult teachings, its universal laws, and the workings of the cosmos. Mikkyo is characterized by the thorough and scientific approach to analyzing and overcoming problems in all phases of one's life, at the same time being closely associated with highly "occult" and spiritual beliefs and skills. In this path, it is taught that there is no coincidence, there are no accidents and luck is little more than unguided or un-channeled energies playing themselves out in our daily affairs. From the mystical teachings of Mikkyo came the insight into the workings of the cosmos, and the application of this understanding cultivated personal power. Mikkyo is considered a Tantric path (tantric meaning using the body as a tool in working toward enlightenment). Mikkyo esoteric knowledge is based on the three esoteric keys (sanmitsu) of thought, word, and deed. It is a system of taking direct responsibility for ones own actions and over ones own life. By aligning our thoughts, words and deeds, we directly control our surroundings... we effectively focus and direct our will in the world (sound familiar? magick?).
MINOAN TRADITION: A Triple-Branched Tree in the Garden of the Great Goddess and Her Divine Son. It was founded on the work of Eddie Buczynski, founder of the NY Welsh Tradition and the Wicca Tradition; Carol Bulzone, of Enchantments in New York; and Lady Rhea, of Magickal Realms in the Bronx. All three of the founding Minoan Elders were also Elders in various branches of Traditional Witchcraft who wanted a place of peace and celebration for Gay and Lesbian Witches. The Minoan Tradition has three branches represented in the Minoan Brotherhood, the Minoan Sisterhood, and the Cult of the Double Axe/Cult of Rhea.
MOHSIAN: As a British tradition, Mohsian subscribes to belief in the Triple Goddess and the Dual God; most of their group independently came to worship Them under the same Names, which they do not reveal to outsiders. They honor both ancestral and local spirits under many names and in many guises. They possess the Ordains, cherish the Rede and follow the Law of Three-Fold Return. As an older Trad, however, they also say that, 'No one keeps a Witch's conscience.' If an initiate comes to believe that the Greater Good is best served by personal violation of the Law, they are free to do so and take whatever karmic lumps they deserve. The connection to the local natural environment remains at the core of Mohsian, and a few are actively involved in tracing forgotten Ley lines.
NECTW: The New England Covens of Traditionalist Witches (NECTW) was founded by Lady Gwen Thompson (1928-1986), a hereditary Witch from New Haven, Connecticut. NECTW is a place for men and women to be trained as Priests and Priestesses of the Craft. The teachings and intense training are not for everyone. They require a strong follower with a peculiar sense of dedication, and a sincere heart willing to train and practice in order to understand the ways of the Wise. Those seeking to join this Tradition are ideally of keen mind, strong spirit and able body, ready to study the Old Ways and make this path an integral part of their life.
NEO-PAGAN: Modern Pagan beliefs such a Wicca are sometimes called 'neo-pagan' because they are actually new versions of older beliefs. Not everyone bothers to make the distinction between Pagan and Neo-Pagan.
NEW AGE: This modern term usually refers to mixing metaphysical practices with a structured religion.
ONDINES: Astral beings that represent the Element of Water.
OPHIDIAN TRADITIONAL CRAFT: Or Serpent-venerating Traditional Craft has been around for a very long time. One of its magical texts, the Oera Linda Book, has sections that date back more than four thousand years. Every ancient culture recognized a primordial Serpent-deity associated with wisdom and power, dwelling in the watery Abyss deep below the Earth's surface. In more recent centuries this ancient belief was kept alive by Traveling Folk, especially those who lived and worked on the sea, on rivers, and (later) on canals. Knowledge of the World Serpent also persisted in remote country districts all over Europe. The two words that best sum up the Ophidian view of reality are animism and polytheism. Literally everything is alive, with its own sentience and feelings. Nature abounds with spirits of every kind, many of which are powerful enough to be classed as deities, either gods or goddesses (or sometimes androgynous).
OUT OF BALANCE: Too much positive or negative energy influencing daily activities.
PAGAN: Refers to any of the pre-Christian, polytheistic religions, or those who practice them. Wicca is one Pagan religion, as is Asatru, Santeria, Voodoo, or Shamanism. Pagan religions are often referred to as "nature-oriented" but that is a misconception.
PANTHEON: A group of deities that belong to one specific culture and/or time period. The Egyptian pantheon consists of deities such as Isis, Ra, Osiris, and Anubis. The Norse pantheon has Odin, Thor and Freya.
PENDULUM DOWSING: A good way to experiment with divination is with a pendulum. It can only give answers to yes/no types of questions, but it can be easy to learn. It's a quick alternative to the runes or Tarot deck.
POLYTHEISM: A more complex concept than just believing in more than one Deity. Even among Pagans, we may not all look at the Gods and Goddesses in the same light. For all of our differences in beliefs and practices, one of the few characteristics that nearly all Pagans share is a polytheistic outlook when it comes to Deity. Generally speaking, we believe in the existence of many Gods and Goddesses. Of course, even this is not universal among all Pagans.
PENTACLE/PENTAGRAM: Many who are not familiar with Wicca use either term, but there is a difference. A pentagram is a 5-pointed star, and the pentacle is a 5-pointed star in a circle. The pentacle is always oriented with one point upwards. The points each represent an element, and the 5th (topmost) point is the spirit. Pagans of many paths wear the pentacle as a sign of their faith, and there is no relation to Satanism. In some traditions, an 'upside down' pentacle represents a 2nd degree Wiccan.
POPPET: A small doll or figure that represents a person in a ritual or spell. These items are NOT evil things for you to stick pins into. Poppets are frequently used in healing spells, and are usually hand-sewn and stuffed with the appropriate herbs. Magick of this kind is common in Santeria.
PROJECTIVE HAND: The hand most used in daily activities such as writing. Ambidextrous people have a hard time distinguishing this one. Used to direct energy.
PRYTANI: Pronounced pri-tah-nee, it was the first of the traditions of the Craft. An ancient, oral methodology, drawn from the Celts and ancient Druid priests and priestesses, there is almost nothing in print with regard to this sect, because of the strict historical ban to write anything down. Research traces this sect back to the ancient and learned ones of the Isles of Iona and Avalon, and further even, to the mythical Pheryllt priests of Atlantis. The Prytani follow the Wiccan Rede, and the standard concepts of reincarnation, the Law of threes and karmic retribution. It is believed that karmic payback (whether positive or negative) can follow a soul through various lifetimes. That's not always a comfortable thought, but it explains a lot. We believe that we choose which lives we will take, based on what we have yet to learn, to develop the soul appropriately.
RECEPTIVE HAND: The opposite of Projective Hand. Used to absorb energy.
RECLAIMING: This tradition was founded by the author, Starhawk, in 1980. There is a strong political and social element to the Reclaiming tradition. Reclaiming covens have no strict hierarchy, and the focus is on one's inner spirit and personal power. A unique part of the Reclaiming movement, are the Witch Camps. They are intensive annual retreats for study and ritual.
REDE: The Rede is a rule or law that most Wiccans live by. The short version is:
Eight Words the Wiccan Rede Fulfill:
An It Harm None, Do What You Will
There is a longer poem called the Wiccan Rede, but the essence of the rule is that all things are acceptable so long as no one is harmed. Not all Wiccans interpret this the same way, and many follow it to different degrees.
REINCARNATION: The belief that one has lived before in another lifetime or lifetimes.
RITUAL: A ritual is any ceremony that has spiritual meaning for the person performing it. Rituals can be simple or elaborate and complex. A ritual with a specific intent is more often referred to as a 'spell', but rituals can also be used for celebration, worship, meditation or other astral work.
ROEBUCK TRADITION: As practiced by the Ancient Celtic Church, is a religious organization dedicated to the rediscovery and revival of the Pagan mystery faith of the ancient Celtic peoples, and the incorporation of this ancient faith into modern 20th century America. It was founded in 1976 by Ann and David Finnin as an experimental group called The Roebuck, which was made up of members of many different magical systems devoted to the exploration of a British mystery tradition made public in Britain during the 1950's and introduced into the United States during the years 1964-1966 through the writings of Robert Cochrane.
RUNES: Symbols from an ancient Nordic alphabet. Each symbol has a meaning and these symbols are often inscribed on jewelry or altar tools. A set of wooden pieces each bearing a single rune are used in divination.
SALAMANDERS: Astral beings that represent the Element of Fire.
SAMHAIN: Also called: Halloween, All Hallows Eve, All Saints & All Souls, Day of the Dead
Dates: October 31, early November
Colors: black, orange, indigo
Tools: votive candles, magic mirror, cauldron, pumpkins, divination tools
Energy: death & transformation; Wiccan new year
Goddesses: Crone, Hecate
Gods: Horned Hunter, Cernnunos, Anubis
Rituals: honoring ancestors, releasing old, foreseeing future, understanding death and rebirth
Customs: jack o'lanterns, spirit plate, ancestor altar, divination, costumes
SANTERIA: "The way of the saints" is a synthesis of Nigerian Yoruba folk religion and Roman Catholicism. It's origins can be traced to the first slave importation to Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Trinidad, and the Gulf of Mexico islands, where slaves desperate to retain their religious heritage hid those pagan beliefs behind the trappings of the Catholic slave owners theology. This camouflage allowed for an overlapping of identities in the Orishas and Saints. Although the evolution of Santeria is a mosaic of two religions, most practitioners today are trying to reclaim the original Yoruba folk religion and eliminate the catholic overtones. Thus, the term 'Santeria' is oft regarded as derogatory, and some members prefer a wide range of other names such as La Regla Lucumi', Candomble, Umbanda and Quimbanda.
SCRYING: A form of divination, by peering into something. Typically, a crystal ball is used, but you can also scry with a mirror, bowl of water or even a candle flame.
SEAX WICCA: The inspiration of Raymond Buckland. In 1973 fed-up with the egotism and power trips exhibited by others within the craft, he decided to leave the Gardnerian tradition feeling it no longer met his religious needs. He developed and founded Seax-Wicca as a new tradition at Samhain that same year. While he claimed no direct descent from Saxon times, he chose a Saxon background as a foundation for the new tradition with "Woden and Freya" as its main deities
SELF-DEDICATION: You don't need to be in a coven to be initiated into Wicca. You can dedicate yourself to the Gods and Goddesses even if you're a solitary.
SHAMANISM: Over tens of thousands of years, our ancient ancestors all over the world discovered how to maximize human abilities of mind and spirit for healing and problem solving. The remarkable system of methods they developed is today known as "shamanism," a term that comes from a Siberian tribal word for its practitioners: "shaman" (pronounced SHAH-mahn). Shamans are a type of medicine man or woman especially distinguished by the use of journeys to hidden worlds otherwise mainly known through myth, dream, and near-death experiences.
SIGIL: A magically oriented seal, sign, glyph, or other device used in a magical working. The most powerful sigils are those that you create yourself. Sigils can be used on letters, packages, clothing, on paper tucked in your pocket, etc.
SKYCLAD: To be naked, specifically during ritual. Some believe that clothing interferes with the natural energies of magick, and that it brings you closer to the Earth. There are many reasons why a Wiccan might choose to go skyclad, but it is up to you. Some covens work this way, and you may not want to join one if it is not comfortable for you.
SMUDGE: To use the smoke from burning herbs or incense to cleanse negative energy. It's a Native American term, and white sage or sweet grass are typically used. A bundle of these herbs is called a 'smudge stick'.
"SO MOTE IT BE": Loosely, "This is how I would like things to be."
SPELL: A spell is a ritual that has a particular purpose. Some rituals are purely celebratory, but a spell is done to accomplish something. Spells might be used for healing, prosperity, attracting a mate, or even to rid yourself (NEVER anyone else, no matter how tempting!) of bad habits. Spells, or power in general, arguably, should never be used directly for personal gain, though you can ask for guidance (for example, rather than asking the powers that be for money, you might ask for guidance on how you may learn to solve your money problems.). Spells usually have the rhyme and rhythm of a well-written poem, and end with something like, “As I Will, So Mote It Be.”
SPIRAL: The symbol of “coming into being”. A spiral dance celebrates the spiral symbolism.
STORYTELLER WICCA: Thalia Clan, as it is often mistaken for, is an eclectic NeoPagan Mystery tradition with strong Wiccan elements, a spiritual family who celebrates the seasons with joy and emphasize spiritual and emotional development through community. Theirs is not a religion of dogma or creeds, but of individual faith and experience, in communion with fellow travelers on the Road, of the Lord and Lady in all of Their myriad names and forms. They explore the mysteries of Self and Deity through flexible, responsive rituals that tread the balance between mirth and reverence, and laugh in the face of darkness, for evil cannot abide mockery. Thalia is our Lady of Comedy, and Dionysus our Lord of Dreams: in a community that shares joy and sorrow, laughter and tears, they sing, feast, dance, make music and love, and take care of their own.
STREGHERIA: Or Strega, is traditional Italian witchcraft, and it dates back beyond the modern-day Wicca. The Gods and Goddesses of the Streghe have their basis in the deities of the Etruscians, who occupied Italy in BC times. Their influence can still be felt today, and can be observed in not only the Italian tradition, but also in the beliefs of the Greeks, and even the Celts.
SUMMERLANDS: The place where your spirit goes after you die, before your next reincarnation. Here your spirit (or soul) rests between lifetimes and reflects on the things learned. You may be reunited with friends and loved ones here before your next life begins. Not all Pagans believe in this version of the afterlife, and there are many variations.
SYLPHS: Astral beings that represent the Element of Air.
TAIBHSEAR: A living growing tradition that honors the Gods, Goddesses and Nature Spirits through: ritual, magick, healing, shamanic journey, study, divination and environmental awareness. It is highly individual in nature. The word Taibhsear is Scottish Gaelic for "vision seer", a word from Western tradition to describe a set of practices including, but not limited to: healing, journeying, and divination, rather than using the word "shaman". They are not a Wiccan tradition in the purest sense of the word, as they do not claim lineage through Gerald Gardner. They believe that all aspects of God, Goddess and the Shining Ones are representations of the one great energy in the universe. It is for this reason that they do not condone disrespect of other religious paths. They study and practice heavily in the Celtic pantheon but do not close their minds or hearts to others, as we are all of mixed heritage. Good philosophy!
TAROT: The Tarot is a deck of cards used for divination or spell work. A traditional deck has 78 cards and is split into 2 sections, the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. Once you know the meanings of each card, you can use them to help answer your questions. Decks come in many different designs and images. Some are easier to read than others, but it is important that you chose a deck that appeals to you. Contrary to some beliefs, there is nothing Satanic about the Tarot. The cards merely touch on your own psychic abilities and intuitions; you are not communing with demons.
THELEMA: The core beliefs of Thelema, written by Aleister Crowley (poet, mystic, and Golden Dawn Occultist who has been the subject of much scrutiny and study), circa 1904, can be summed up in one phrase from The Book of the Law: "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law." (AL I:40). Two other verses are particularly important to note when attempting to sum up the core beliefs of Thelema. The first is, "Love is the law, love under will." (AL I:57). Another important verse to consider, for those who wish to better understand Thelema, is: "Every man and every woman is a star." (AL I:3).
THURIBLE: A censer or incense burner that is suspended on chains. Often seen in Catholic rituals as well as Pagan ones.
UNICORN TRADITION: Established at the Summer Solstice, 1980 c.e. by Lady Galadriel and Lord Athanor in Atlanta, Georgia. The Unicorn Tradition is essentially an eclectic one, rooted in the family tradition through which Galadriel and Athanor received their training and initiations. In their tradition they teach that Earth belongs to the East, Fire to the South, Water to the West, and Air to the North. This is different than the majority of both Wiccan and Ceremonial Magick traditions. There are several reasons behind their particular symbology. First, both female elements (earth and water) are placed upon the horizontal axis of the circle. Both masculine elements (fire and air) are placed upon the vertical axis of the circle. The horizontal axis is traditionally ascribed to the feminine, and the vertical to the masculine. At the center, where they are joined together, we find the crossroads of the spirit. Secondly, when starting in the east and going deosil around the circle, you alternate polarities (feminine, masculine, feminine, masculine) thereby creating a smoother and better flow of energy. In addition, their tradition teaches that all things begin in the east. To be incarnate on this planet one must be born through the gate of the earth and the east in order to wear a body and make the journey known as life.
UNICURSAL HEXAGRAM: Symbolizes the beauty of Tiphareth. This is at the center of the Tree of Life on the Pillar of Equilibrium. It connects to all other Sephera, save for Malkuth. It is the first Sephera below the abyss, directly in line with Kether. The four sixes are Victory, Pleasure, Science, & Success. (Swords being earned success & Disks being material success, of course.) The sixth Trump is The Hierophant, which represents a spiritual master, an Enlightener, or Advisor. The hexagram has always been recognized as a symbol of the balance of power, politically, religiously, and spiritually. The Unicursal Hexagram represents victory after struggle. As the sixes to their fives, the ensuing pleasure and success following the completion of any of life’s 'great works' is what we all strive to achieve (feel), but not finality. That is Malkuth. In Tiphareth, we are only half way to the ultimate goal.
UNIVERSAL ECLECTIC WICCA: A Tradition of Wicca that embraces a personal exploration into one's own religious paradigm, yet provides structure through the "Five Points of Wiccan Belief." The Tradition that is now Universal Eclectic Wicca (UEW) came into being in the late 1960's as 'Silver Chalice', the core coven at an intentional community in the Westchester area of Upstate New York. By 1986 the land was sold and all the covens that originated with Silver Chalice were referred to as UEW. It is a broad-based tradition, originally created mainly by Jayne Tomas and expanded by Kaatryn MacMorgan, and its beginning purpose was to bring together the followers of several different groups whose leaders had learned from the same training circle. UEW is the result of these people, from varied covens, coming together to write a Tradition that encompassed all of their beliefs. UEW is based not on one or two sources, but an infinite number of sources.
VIBES: The feelings, or readings, one receives from another being or place. The stronger your intuition or your attunement to the world surrounding you, the stronger the vibes will be for you. Also, the vibes will be much stronger coming from someone or something very close to you on a personal level. These vibes are very accurate and should not be ignored or taken lightly. They are felt by your deeper conscious, your heart, your soul.
VISION QUESTING: Using astral projection, to accomplish a specific goal. Also called path working.
VISUALIZATION: Mental pictures.
VOODOO: Also known as Vodun or Vodou, it's a religion from West African that migrated to Haiti and North America from the slaves hundreds of years ago. Vodun, like Christianity, is a religion of many traditions. Each group follows a different spiritual path and worships a slightly different pantheon of spirits, called Loa. The word means "mystery" in the Yoruba language. The voodoo made famous by Hollywood, though loosely based on some facts, is largely false. Followers of Vodun believe that each person has a soul which is composed of two parts: a gros bon ange or "big guardian angel", and a ti bon ange or "little guardian angel". The latter leaves the body during sleep and when the person is possessed by a Loa during a ritual. There is a concern that the ti bon ange can be damaged or captured by evil sorcery while it is free of the body. The purpose of rituals is to make contact with a spirit, to gain their favor by offering them animal sacrifices and gifts, to obtain help in the form of more abundant food, higher standard of living, and improved health. Human and Loa depend upon each other; humans provide food and other materials; the Loa provide health, protection from evil spirits and good fortune. Rituals are held to celebrate lucky events, to attempt to escape a run of bad fortune, to celebrate a seasonal day of celebration associated with a Loa, for healing, at birth, marriage and death. The houngan and mambos confine their activities to "white" magic which is used to bring good fortune and healing. However caplatas (also known as bokors) perform acts of evil sorcery or black magic, sometimes called "left-handed Vodun". Rarely, a houngan will engage in such sorcery; a few alternate between white and dark magic.
WAND: A rod or branch used in ritual to direct energy, and represents the element Air. Wands are sometimes difficult to come by in stores, so you will likely have to make your own. A branch from a tree is a traditional wand, and decorated with feathers, runes, crystals or whatever strikes your fancy. Try to find a branch that has fallen off the tree naturally, rather than tearing one down.
WARLOCK: Contrary to popular belief, warlock is NOT the term for a male witch. A male witch is just a witch. The term has been picked up by popular culture, and people who don't really know anything about witchcraft like to use it. What the word really means is frequently and vehemently debated amongst modern-day witches. The usual explanation is that it's an old English word for 'oath-breaker' and was used for a witch who betrayed their coven. Therefore, overall, it is considered derogatory.
WATCHTOWERS: The Watchtowers refer to the elements and their corresponding directions, and are often called upon for protection when casting a circle. They are also referred to as Guardians, or the corners of the circle.
WEB-WEAVING: Networking with other magical people through conversation, in writing, or by computer to gather information to mutually assist each party in their studies and life goals.
Wheel of the Year: One full cycle of the seasonal year, beginning with the Samhain celebration (The Witch’s New Year.)
WICCAN: Not all Wiccans are the same. There are several different 'branches' within this religion, and those branches are typically called 'traditions'. To someone who is new to Wicca, all of the different names can be intimidating. There is not a complete list of every tradition that exists. Even within each tradition, there will be variations from coven to coven. Wicca is a modern version of the Pagan religious beliefs handed down from pre-Christian times. Since much information was lost during the Burning Times, much has been 'recreated'. Wicca is a peaceful, earth-centered, polytheistic religion that has no connection whatsoever to Satanism. Some feel that Wicca and Witchcraft are the same thing, some do not. Basically, Wicca is a religion, whereas Witchcraft is simply the act of doing magick without the spiritual overtones… and Wiccan is someone who follows the religion of Wicca, but who may or may not also be a witch.
WICCANING: Like a christening, but to present the infant to the God and Goddess for protection. The child is not necessarily expected to choose a Pagan path for themselves as they grow older.
WIDDERSHINS: Counter-clockwise. Used to describe movement around a circle during ritual.
WITCH: A witch is someone who practices witchcraft (either male or female), regardless of their religious standing.
WITCHCRAFT: The art of doing magick, casting spells and performing rituals. It doesn't not involve the summoning of demons, as some might think. Some feel that Wicca and Witchcraft are the same thing, some do not. Basically, Wicca is a religion, whereas Witchcraft is simply the act of doing magick without the spiritual overtones.
WORKING (as in Magickal working): The process of using magick to reach a desired positive goal.
YULE: Also called: Winter Solstice, Jul, Saturnalia, Christmas, solar/secular New Year
Dates: around December 21 colors: red, green, white
Tools: mistletoe, evergreen wreath, lights, gifts, holly, Yule log, Yule tree
Energy: regeneration & renewal
Goddesses: Great Mother, Isis, Mary, Tonazin, Lucina, Bona Dea
Gods: Sun Child, Horus, Jesus, Mithras, Santa/Odin, Saturn, Holly King
Rituals: personal renewal, world peace, honoring family & friends
Customs: wreaths, lights, gift-giving, singing, feasting, resolutions
