In general, a Book of Shadows is a journal written by an aspiring pagan recording their spiritual journey, notes on what they have learned, and copies of others writings that may be considered holy writ.  This book is often very personal to the owner as it records beliefs, ideas and magical workings. This book is also referred to as a grimoire, a spell book, spiritual journal, or a magical journal.  Wiccan tradition states that it was kept by coven's recording information about their own practice, rituals, rules, literature and teaching techniques. There are many myths surrounding the use and practice of keeping a bos as well as the origins of the practice. In my opinion, the practice of keeping a book of shadows is a modern invention.

Any one can create their own bos (book of shadows). All you really need is the desire to record information that you feel is important to you. If you are working within a coven or tradition, check with the elders for guidelines in keeping a bos.  The book of shadows can be a workbook, a spiritually diary, and a journey unto it own. The simple act of journaling can reveal your inner thoughts. Recording your meditation results shows your progress over time. Having one place to put all those notes keeps you organized. It takes dedication to study and record what one has learned and it takes patience and diligence it keep with it.  The rewards are many but must be experienced to be appreciated fully. As such it is not a book that can be finished.

There are many ways to keep a bos.  A three ring binder I feel is best when first creating one. It allows you to easily remove and add pages.  You could even keep it on the computer. My bos is contained in three different notebooks and in one large folder on my computer.  I publish parts of my bos on this web site that you are reading. The form of the bos isn't too important in the work of magic. As long as you can read what you write and you enjoy using your bos, is what really matters. 

A bos can contain many different subjects of inquiry. Every bos can be as different and unique as the writer. More often a writer's favorite subject is worked with most, while leaving some subjects out. Below is a sampling of what subjects might be in a Wiccan oriented book of shadows. 

This small listing is in no way the required contains of a bos. Your own interests will determine what you include. No matter what you keep in your bos remember it's the journey, not looks that counts. 

Brightest Blessings, Isa 
01/21/04 ver. 2

Suggestions, Comments and Questions Welcome
            ©Isabella LeCour  2004 
Est. 04-01-03 
Last Update: 03-17-05