On the PENTAGRAM -- Astrological Info - * -

The five-pointed star is often represented as the morning star. The descending ray of the Nauvoo Temple's inverted five-point star stones (there is only one surviving example and it is damaged) was extended downward. Such an orientation suggests the rising morning star. This "star" is not a star at all, but the planet Venus. Venus' brightness is a reflection of the sun, which is invisible below the horizon when Venus is at it's brightest. The extended ray points to the source of the morning stars brightness, not the planet itself, but the sun's brilliance.

Through a unique orbital characteristic Venus shares a relationship with the five-pointed star. Carl G. Liungman explains: "If one knows the ecliptic and can pinpoint the present position of the planets in relation to the fixed star of the zodiac, it is possible to mark the exact place in the 360 degrees of the zodiac where the Morning star first appears shortly before sunrise after a period of invisibility. If we do this, waiting for the Morning star to appear again 584 days later (the orbital time of Venus) and mark its position in the zodiac, and then repeat this process until we have five positions of Venus as the Morning star, we will find that exactly eight years plus one day have passed. If we then draw a line from the first point marked to the second point marked, then to the third, and so on, we end up with a pentagram [five-pointed star]" (Dictionary of Symbols, 1991, pp. 333-334). No other celestial object, whether planet or star, has this orbital characteristic; it is wholly unique to Venus (the Morning/Evening Star).

GAIA'S NOTE:
The Pentagram is also associated with Da Vinci's "Universal Man" or "Microcosmic Man" -- his arms and legs outstretched, he forms the upright pentagram.


PENTAGRAM AND the TREE OF LIFE:
"David Pine" <pine@online.net>:
The Four Elements in the reverse order, i.e. Fire Water Air Earth are representative of the Four Letters of the Tetragrammaton Yod Heh Vav Heh and also correspond to the Tree of Life Fire - Chokmah; Water - Binah; Air - Tiphareth (actually to the six Sephiroth Chesed through Yesod and centered in Tiphareth) and Earth to Malkuth. By studying them in the order given you are essentially working your way up the Tree. It would likely be best to stick to that order makes sense. also see: Earth (solid), Water (liquid), Air (gas), Fire (plasma) they are ARISTOTELIAN, these elements. Popular with the alchemists and via Aristotle also had QUALITIES lying between them with certain elements keyed to individual qualities thus:

   Fire               

Heat            Dryness         

Wind                                Earth       

Humidity                            Cold                    

Water            

SYMBOLISM & HISTORY OF THE PENTAGRAM: (edited by Gaia,
from material by Calixto and others)

The five-pointed star is often represented as the morning star. The descending ray of the Nauvoo Temple's inverted five-point starstones (there is only one surviving example and it is damaged) was extended downward. Such an orientation suggests the rising morning star. This "star" is not a star at all, but the planet Venus.

Venus has long been associated with the Pentagram (aka "Pentalpha", since it's composed of five "A's") because from the earth, Venus actually inscribes a Pentacle (5-pointed star) in its apparent "movement" through the heavens. (Dictionary of Symbols, 1991, pp. 333-334). No other celestial object, whether planet or star, has this orbital characteristic; it is wholly unique to Venus (the Morning/Evening Star). Scripturally, Jesus has been associated with Venus as the "Morning and Evening Star".

Venus' brightness is a reflection of the sun, which is invisible below the horizon when Venus is at it's brightest. The extended ray points to the source of the morning star's brightness, not the planet itself, but the sun's brilliance.

The earliest physical evidence of the existence of the pentagram comes from the very place where agricultural civilization is popularly believed to have started. The pentagram was frequently found on potshards and tablets (which have been dated to as early as 3500 BCE) in the location of the Kingdom of Uruk (at the mouth of the Tigris-Euphrates valley). The symbol was found accompanying signs relating to the foundation of written language. There is also evidence that the pentagram was used in ancient Mesopotamia to indicate the seal of royalty, and power which extends to the four corners of the earth.

The pentagram has appeared in myth and folk lore ever since that time. The Greek Pythagoreans (a school of both science and metaphysics, founded by Pythagoras 586-506 BCE) referred to the pentagram as 'pentalpha' because it could also be formed by laying 5 alphas (A) together. The Pentagram became a major mystical symbol in the Mystery school established by Pythagoras in Croton. Pythagoras seems to have learned of the symbol which studying in Egypt. The Pythagoreans viewed the Pentagram as a symbol of wholeness or soundness. It represented Ugieia or Hugieia, which is the root of hygiene. Hugieia also indicates exactly what the Pythagoreans meant by it: soundness or wholeness (which is one meaning of health) or divine blessing. To the Pythagoreans, wholeness was important, and they greeted each other with Hugiaine! ("Be Whole/Sound/Blessed"), instead of Khaire! (the normal greeting meaning "Cheer"). The Pentagram was their symbol of recognition. It was the link to the Divine Aperion or "One which was the source of the Universe." (Interestingly for modern mystics, indications are that the Pentagram was often inscribed "inverted" in this time period without prejudice.) The pentacle was used to represent the four philosophical elements plus spirit. The four elements are caused by the four qualities (hot, dry, cold, and wet). Discussion of these elements can be found in De Caelo by Aristotle. There were also associations with the first five regular solids (the Platonic Solids).

The points also represent various seasons in the year and in life, as well as the phases of the moon. Air was the point associated with spring, childhood, and the 1st quarter of the moon. Fire was
associated with summer, youth and the 2nd quarter of the moon. Earth was associated with autumn, adulthood, and the 3rd quarter of the moon. Water was the element of winter, old age and the 4th quarter of the moon. Spirit was associated with death and the new moon.

Since all of nature could be described in one glyph, it is obvious why the Pythagoreans assigned the name of "Wholeness" to the Pentagram. Wholeness was vital to health in their view. Only by
maintaining the proper balance of the four elements and qualities (as expressed by the four humours) could one maintain health. Also important was the harmony in the union of body and soul (this was
Virtue or Arete). Soundness of mind was a prerequisite for all happiness and prosperity. In one symbol, one found soundness and wholeness in the microcosm, and the macrocosm, and between the two. It is in short, symbolic of Balance, Harmony, the Union of Opposites.

Some sources indicate that the inverted Pentagram was utilized by the Pythagoreans to show that their House or Order was well rooted or founded (the lower point being the root or foundation). These sources also say that the Five Truths on the pentacle were Zoos, Psyche, Physis, Hypopteros Drys, and Dikaion, and were listed clockwise from the bottom point.

The Pentagram is related to a mathematical principle called the "Golden Section" -- a naturally pleasing mathematical relationship symbolized by the pentagram, used in geometry, architecture, and even music. "the human body is divided by the rule of the Golden Section, exactly at the navel. (Lawlor, p. 59). It was therefore used both as a symbol and as a mathematical relationship, extensively in architecture. Many temples and cathedrals have used this to build creations that naturally appeal to human senses of proportion, balance, unity, and beauty.

In late antiquity and in the medieval world, the Pentagram took on a new meaning as well. To Constantine, and others, the Pentagram represented the five wounds of Christ (the scourges, the crown of thorns, the nails, and the spear; or alternatively, the four wounds from the nails plus the spear wound). Constantine used the symbol extensively as his personal seal and amulet. He had even considered making it the official symbol of Christianity. This did not happen, although the Pentagram continued to be used in the manner in the medieval time period to represent Christ's sacrifice. If things had gone slightly differently, Christians would be wearing the Pentagram around their necks, not crosses.

At this time too, the Pentagram was associated with the Seasons. The upright Pentagram represented the summer season, while the inverted Pentagram represented the winter season. Jewish mystics associated the Pentagram with the five books of the Pentateuch. They also associated a vertical rhombus with the four letters of the Holy Name, Tetragrammaton YHVH. This is the name of Yahweh or Jehovah.

The Jews attribute the pentagram to the five books of the Pentateuch (first 5 books of the Bible). The Muslims attribute the pentagram to the five pillars of faith and the five times of daily prayer. The symbol is prevalent throughout Islam and is featured both upright and inverted. Within Christianity the pentagram symbolizes the 5 wounds of Christ on the cross. In it's inverted form it is said to point the way to the Nativity -- the birth of the Christ child; and is also referred to as St. Peter's Cross. According to legend, St. Peter considered himself unworthy to be crucified upright as was Jesus, so instead he was crucified upside down.

One of the last Pagan Roman Emperors, Constantine (who converted to Christianity on his death bed in the mid 300's CE) used the pentacle as the symbol of his royal office. In Arthurian legend the pentagram was emblazoned in gold upon the shield of Sir Gawain and symbolized his mastery of the 5 virtues (generosity, courtesy, chastity, chivalry and piety). In the legend and thence forth throughout England the pentagram is known as the "Endless Knot".  In Freemasonry the pentagram or 5 pointed "Seal of Solomon", is associated with Man as Microprosopus.

Leonardo de Vinci's "universal man" is often seen with his arms and legs outstretched, and along with his head, all five forming the "points" of the Pentacle -- also know as the "Microcosm" of the
Universal macrocosm. Jesus has been associated with this as the ultimate "Universal man".

In Christian Kabbalism (Kabbalah is a Jewish mystical system, it was somewhat altered and developed into a Christian metaphysical-mystical system during the Renaissance and later) there was another
association for the Pentagram. In Hebrew, Jesus' name can be represented as YHShVH or YHVShH ("Yeshua" or "Yehovashah"). These five Hebrew letters can be placed around the points of the
Pentagram, just as the Pythagoreans placed UGIEIA - UGIQA around the Pentagram. This fact, and the association with the wounds of Christ meant that this symbol was still very holy to these thinkers.

Throughout the ancient world, and past the Renaissance, the Pentagram was drawn either upright or inverted without any real preference. There was no real regard for orientation of the Pentagram, and the inverted Pentagram can be seen without any negative connotation in Masonic imagery, and even as the symbol of the attainment of the Second Degree in Wicca (which has many commonalties to the Craft of the Masons).

The first person who applied a negative connotation to the inverted Pentagram was Eliphas Levi (Alphonse Louis Constant, a French Catholic deacon who lived from 1810-1875)). He was the first to
argue that the "upright" Pentagram was associated with good, and the "inverted" Pentagram was associated with evil. He drew a diagram that displayed the two Pentagrams side by side. In the upright Pentagram, he drew the figure of a man. This man is the microcosm. Spirit is shown topmost and honored, dominant over the physical elements of earth, air, fire and water. This was the symbol of good, he argued. In the inverted Pentagram, Levi drew the head of a goat. Matter is honored above spirit, the passive and base exalted above the active and Divine. The goat's head represents lust, and reinforces the image. Around the goat's head, Levi wrote the words SAMAEL and LILITH, the two chief demons of Hebrew Kabbalistic thought. The Pentagram was associated by Levi with a creature he claimed to be the Baphomet supposedly worshipped by the Knights Templar.

Due to the church's persecution of anyone who posed a political threat, the Masons were forced to flee to the border of Poland and Germany, which had become a gathering place for free thinkers of all
kinds. Many spiritual organizations derive their history from that time and place, and so too does the dissemination of the pentagram's symbolism into Western spiritual-metaphysical usage.

Oswald Wirth drew a variation of this Pentagram with a double circle around the Pentagram. In the circle he placed the letters LVYThN (Leviathan) counter-clockwise around the Pentagram at the points. Maurice Bessy used this design for the cover of his book Histoire en 1000 images de la magie. An English edition was printed in 1964 and this was acquired by Anton Szandor LaVey. LaVey traced this image, and used it as his "Baphomet" symbol for his Church of Satan. It was the perfect representation of indulgence, hedonism, and defiance of "white light" religion and Christianity (by Baphomet's association with heresy). LaVey threw in a new interpretation as well, that the three points down indicates that the Trinity is denied, while two points up represents duality.

It is around this time that the Inquisition horrifically tortured and murdered hundreds of thousands of women, children and men, who supposedly consorted with a cloven-hoofed devil. Thus began the demonization of what had long been a *revered* symbol within many Spiritual systems -- including Christianity.

The pentagram was particularly popular in the British traditions of Freemasonry in the 18th and 19th centuries and is still often used to represent the seated Master of the Lodge. .... In the case of the Order of the Eastern Star, each point of the pentagram represents a heroine of Biblical lore (and also associated with Goddesses of pre-Biblical times).

Another aspect to consider is the Numerology (an ancient metaphysical science/art) of the Pentacle. The number 5 corresponds to 'change' according to the contemporary Pythagorean system. In
Kabbalistic thought (the Kabbalah is the Jewish mystical system) the number 5 corresponds to the sephiroth Geburah (glory). Geburah is in turn associated with the planet Mars (named after the Roman God of agricultural, who in later Classical times also became God of war). Thus the pentacle has been used in modern military and para-military symbolism -- on uniforms, badges, etc.

The Pentacle became associated with the 5 sacred elements: (in Western useage: air, water, fire, earth, and Spirit. (In some metaphysical systems, such as Wicca, the point facing upward symbolizes Spirit above/ ruling over the other elements; downward, it symbolizes Spirit not yet "over" the others.). In the Oriental systems, the elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. The elements did and still do have an important place in the various African Traditional Religions amoungst the Bantu, Fon, and others of the Kongo delta region including their contemporary diasporia, as well as among the Celtic tribes, and Amerindians.

In contemporary America the symbol of the pentagram has gained the most notoriety through the works of Anton Zandor LaVey (founder of the "church of Satan"). LaVey borrowed almost entirely from the illustrations of Francis Barret and Eliphas Levi, and subsequently lumped them together to create the modern association between the inverted pentacle and the goat head. Plus, since the Pentagram in general is linked to *mystery religions*, magic and alchemy, it is also considered Satanic.

Fundamentalist Christians simplistically and *erroneously* take Anton LaVey and Eliphas Levi as absolute authorities on the history of the Pentagram. As a result, any inverted Pentagram is immediately a dead give-away that the owner or user is evil or Satanic. (Never mind that no one held this view before Levi wrote in the mid 19th century).

Meanwhile, looking at things from an older, non-dualistic point of view, we can make an observation on the inverted Pentagram as currently conceived: While it is generally viewed as evil because it exalts matter over spirit, spirit is still on the Pentagram. It is now buried, or hidden beneath matter. It can (symbolically) be reached by the means of an *underworld*/ "Otherworld" journey, as a shaman would undertake. There one confronts death and the Shadow. By confronting death and the Shadow, and dealing with them, one finds oneself in the womb of Mother Earth, one now finds Wholeness again... -- or as Mormons might say, in the position of potential rebirth and renewal, and then on, to justification, sanctification and exaltation -- through the power of Jesus Christ.

Thus, we see the power of symbols -- we can let them speak to us and teach us great insights, if we but seek with open minds, hearts and spirits.

written by Calixto M. Lopez with additions and comments by Gaia, and others
gaia_d@yahoo.com

Druid: See we lead you to the heart of the temple-tomb, to the heart of the Earth-Mother. (Pause. Now crouch in a kneeling or fetal position in the centre of your circle. Do not hurry. Ask each of the following questions slowly and allow the answer to arise from the depths of your being. Pay attention to whatever the answer is, even if unexpected.)
Druid: Are you prepared to awaken from your sleep? (You answer)
Druid: Are you prepared to be fully born upon the earth? (You answer)
Druid: Will you accept the sufferings you will experience with life on earth? (You answer)
Druid: Will you accept the love and the joy you will experience with life on earth? (You answer. The pause)
Druid: Stand up, for now is the time ordained for your birth. Rise up, push away all that limits and holds you back! Be born into the world of time and space in order that you may experience the bliss of the Creation. (Rise up and stretch out your arms and legs and feel the joys of freedom of movement for your body)
Druid: Welcome to the Fellowship of the Grove of the Bards - the first of the Sacred Groves of the Order of Bards, Ovates, and Druids. Here may your find support and inspiration, nourishment and joy!

You may then spend time in meditation, or you may wish to finish the ceremony. When you feel ready to finish, visualize the world bathed in healing light. Say the prayer: "May the whole World be filled with Peace and Love and Light" three times.

Become aware of your physical body and surroundings. Stand and say the prayer: "May the blessing of the Uncreated One, of his Son/Daughter the Created Word and of the Spirit that as Inspirer be
always with me. I declare the closing of this Initiation into the Bardic Grade. Awen." (Pronounced AAH-O'O-EN - The significance of this sacred word and `mantra' of the Druids will be discussed later.) Then extinguish the candle, and as you do so, visualize the Light spreading out across the Earth.

Dragon Phoenix
 ...
/|\
 

The Full Moon nearest the Winter Solstice is the Oak Moon, the Moon of the newborn year, the Divine Child. Like the Divine Child who is born to die and dies to be reborn anew, the ancient Oak has its trunk and branches in the material world of the living, while its roots, the branches in reverse, reach deep into the Underworld, symbolic land of the Spirit. As the roots probe downward into the gravelike darkness of the Earth, its branches grow ever upward toward the light, to be crowned by sacred Mistletoe. At this most magickal time of the year, as the light of the old dying year wanes and the Oak Moon waxes to full, cast your Circle wearing Mistletoe in your hair. Let this token remind you that like the Oak, we too dwell simultaneously in two worlds - the world of physical matter and the world of Spirit. As you invoke the Goddess of the Moon, ask that you become ever more aware of the other side of reality and the unseen forces and beings that are always among us.

Since its inception, the Witches' Voice, has been barraged with email asking the simple question... "How do I become a Witch"? Although, it has never been the mission of the Witches' Voice to actually teach Witchcraft we find ourselves constantly shocked at the awful responses the Teenage Witch or new seeker receives from many that "claim" themselves "elders" of the craft. For this we apologize. We will never preach or claim to "have the answer". There are indeed many paths and many ways, it is our goal to give you the tools to get started and what to look out for.

It is above all holding high the Names of the Old Ones, keeping to their Ways, honoring all Their children, caring for the Earth and being committed to carrying out whatever tasks that They have set upon you to do. It is about Integrity-Theirs, yours, ours.

Create Your Own Spells
© 1981 by "The Witching Well Education & Research Center"

Because of the very nature of Magick, each working should be highly individualized and personal. Even if following a traditional spell, it should be tailored to your specific needs to be most effective for you. Understanding the basics of Spell Construction will enable you to formulate your own specific, effective spells for any purpose you desire.

Preliminary planning is necessary. The very first step is to decide  precisely what your desired end result is to be. Before you can start, you must decide where you are going. You must be very explicit. It is important, also, that you choose your time carefully. You should take into consideration all Astrological implications, energy currents and Moon phases. The Moon is the astronomical body closest to us and, therefore, has a profound influence upon us, it is very important to choose a time when the Moon is in an astrological sign which is appropriate for your working. For example: Aries/Action - Enthusiasm, Taurus/ Renewal - Sensuality, Gemini/Communication - Curiosity, Cancer/Emotion - Nurturing, Leo/Vitality - Determined, Virgo/Organizing - Studious, Libra/Balance - Cooperation, Scorpio/Sexual - Philosophical, Capricorn/ Authority - Ambitious, Aquarius/Innovation - Social,Pisces/Sensitivity - Idealistic. Bear in mind that magickal workings for gain, increase or bringing things to you, should be initiated when the Moon is Waxing (from Dark to Full); when the Moon is Waning (from Full to Dark), it is time for magickal workings of decrease or sending away. The highest energy occurs at the Full Moon and, therefore, this is the most powerful time for magickal workings. The New Moon is the next most powerful time for Magick. Whenever possible, follow Nature's natural Energy Currents. There is a natural time for starting things (a planting time), for maturing things (a growing time), for reaping things (a harvest time) and, of course, a time for rest and planning. Flowing with these currents will make your magickal work much easier.

Remember to plan your project for a time of uninterrupted privacy. It is important that you have no distractions. Generally speaking, it is best to work as late at night as possible. A time when there is less frantic energy is most appropriate. You might consider Midnight or later.

In choosing a place to do your magickal working pay particular attention to your needs, for you must be comfortable. Your place should be private, quiet and secure. If at all possible, set aside a special place for this purpose only. An unused room, a special corner of your bedroom, a quiet, secluded spot in your garden. A place that is yours. A place that you can come to whenever need arises and that is as free from intrusion of others as possible. Prior to the night of your magickal working, gather together the things that you will need. All of the things used are tools. They have no inherent magick. They are to help you create a mood. If correctly made and used, they will trigger primitive responses from deep within you. They should be chosen with care. Consider the purpose of your ritual and choose your tools accordingly. If your magick is to be sexual, your candles, oils, incenses and so forth, should bring forth a sexual response. If the desired result of your Magick is Tranquility, then the tools should make you feel calm, peaceful and serene. Any candles you might use should not have commercially added fragrances as these may not be appropriate for your working. Prior to your ritual, prepare yourself and your equipment by any means necessary to clean and purify. Historically, people have fasted, followed meticulous and detailed bathing practices, practiced chastity and used many other methods. Most often a Ritual Bath is the preferred method. A bath frequently utilizing candlelight, fragrant herbs, bath salts or sensuous oils. A sumptuous hot bath, special bathing reparations and appropriate lighting, combined, can create the soothing effect which will help in the very important step of relaxing and clearing the mind completely of all mundane thoughts and experiences of the day. Your ritual Bath should, also, begin to set the specific vibrations conducive to your purpose into motion. You must not only cleanse and purify but must, also, begin to create the type of energy necessary.

Once your purification process has been accomplished, you are now ready to begin. Proceed to the special place you have previously chosen in which to perform your magick. If at all possible, you should make use of the primitive responses set into motion by a well chosen piece of music. Your music should start slowly and build to a rousing climax. As you use your oils, light your candle or incense (or utilize any other tool you have chosen), you should begin to further intensify the energy that you have set into motion around you. A high degree of intensity is vitally important. The Altered State of Consciousness that you must reach is not a meditative state. Anything that interferes with your ability to concentrate upon, reach and control the high energy state necessary to perform magick should be avoided. Such as, screaming children,
a sink full of dirty dishes, use of alcohol or drugs, etc. Do not scatter your energy by attempting to do more than one magickal working at a time. Remember that Magick is the manipulation of energy, a thought is a form of energy and visualization is an even stronger form of energy. Your visualization can be a method used to intensify further and direct your will. Your visualization can be the method by which you control the magickal energy you have produced. You must know what you want. You must see it. You must feel the high energy flow. You must direct it. One of the most important elements in the practice of any form of Magick is the Universal Law of Cause and Effect. This means that whatever you do (or don't do) you cause something to happen. The most important consideration is the Universal Law of Retribution. This means that no matter what you do, it comes back to you in like kind. It is the nature of things that as you send something out it gains momentum, so that, by the time it comes back to you, it is three times stronger. If you do something nice for someone, someone will do something nicer for you. "As you weave and spin your spell, Three fold return the tale will tell."

It is the wise Witch who celebrates on the Sabbats and Esbats, for these are times of real as well as symbolic power. Honoring them in some fashion is an integral part of Witchcraft.

The Minor Arcana

Wands - Usually predict energy, growth, enterprise, animation, and glory.
Ace of wands
Upright: A creative beginning, a new business venture, a profitable journey, an inheritance, a new career, a birth in the family
Reversed: Selfishness may spoil the venture, setbacks for a new enterprise, a journey may be put off, a lack of determination
Two of Wands
Upright: A kind and generous person, an interest in science, patience, creative ability, courage, good things to come
Reversed: Caution is advised against impatience, a possible domination by others
Three of Wands
Upright: A cooperation in business affairs, trade and commerce, success brought by a good partnership, practical help may come from a successful person
Reversed: A tendency to scatter energies, mistakes are made through carelessness, disappointment, caution against pride and arrogance
Four of Wands
Upright: The beauty of the harvest home, perfected work, prosperity, peace, celebration after labor, end of romance in marriage, happy holidays to come
Reversed: Learning to appreciate the little things in life, beauty of nature, peace, harmony
Five of Wands
Upright: Competition, possibility of a lawsuit or quarrel, obstacles, courage
Reversed: Harmony, new opportunities, generosity
Six of Wands
Upright: Good news, victory, success after labor, helpful friends, leadership during journey
Reversed: Rewards are delayed, postponed trip, bad news, an insolent winner, pride in riches/success
Seven of Wands
Upright: The ability to "hold one's own" against adversaries, stiff competition in business, a fight won, a fight one may have to face soon, victory, energy, courage
Reversed: The threat will pass by, don't let others take advantage, caution against indecision, patience
Eight of Wands
Upright: A Goal is approaching, new ideas, a journey by air, love will find its mark, love of open air, gardens, meadows
Reversed: Jealousy, violence, quarrels, domestic disputes, a force of courage or boldness is applied to suddenly
Nine of Wands
Upright: Preparedness, eventual victory, good health, strength in reserve, tendency to obstinacy
Reversed: Unpreparedness, refusal to fight, weakness in character, ill health, bending over adversity
Ten of Wands
Upright: An oppressive load, pain, all plans or projects ruined, complete failure
Reversed: Strength, energy, a desire to ruin the happiness of others, a clever person
Page of Wands
Upright: Brilliance, courage, beauty, sudden anger or love, great enthusiasm, a messenger
Reversed: Superficial, theatrical, unstable, a broken heart, bad news to come
Knight of Wands
Upright: An impetuous nature, generous friend, a lover, haste, a journey, the coming or going of a matter is of much concern
Reversed: Discord, work interrupted, jealousy, narrow-mindedness, suspicion, the journey is delayed
Queen of Wands
Upright: A woman, fondness of nature or of the home, attraction, command, someone who is well liked or honorable
Reversed: Strict, domineering, a jealous and revengeful nature, deceit, infidelity
King of Wands
Upright: A gentlemen, father, passionate, generous, noble, a good leader
Reversed: Severe, unyielding, strict, intolerance, prejudice, quarrels
Cups : Usually predict love, happiness, fertility, and beauty.
Ace of Cups
Upright: The beginning of love, joy, beauty, or good health
Reverse: Hesitancy to accept the things that come from the heart, love under a selfish grasp, egotism
Two of Cups
Upright: A new romance, a well balanced friendship is beginning, harmony, cooperation
Reverse: A loss of balance in a relationship, a violent passion, love turning bad, a misunderstanding
Three of Cups
Upright: A good fortune in love, a happy conclusion, unknown talents are discovered, a sensitive and sympathetic person, hospitality
Reverse: Pain, gossip, unknown talents remain hidden, overindulgence
Four of Cups
Upright: Reevaluation, a dissatisfaction with success, kindness may come from others
Reverse: New relationships possible, new goals, new ambitions, action
Five of Cups
Upright: Sorrow, loss of a loved one, a broken marriage, disillusionment, vain regret
Reversed: Return of hope, new relationships are beginning, return of a loved one, courage is summoned from within
Six of Cups
Upright: A gift from a childhood acquaintance, happiness and pleasure brought from the past, good memories, a new friendship, a gift from an admirer, new opportunities
Reverse: Living in the past, outworn friendships, disappointment
Seven of Cups
Upright: A long-worked imagination, unable to choose one's direction in life, illusory success
Reverse: A good use of determination, will-power, a definite path will be chosen
Eight of Cups
Upright: An abandonment of one's current path in life, disappointment in love, misery and repining without cause, desire to leave one's success for something higher
Reverse: Search for pleasure, seeking joy or success, a new love interest
Nine of Cups
Upright: An assured future, physical well-being, a wish may come true
Reverse: A lack in money, overindulgence, illness, a wish may not come true
Ten of Cups
Upright: A happy family life, true friendships, lasting happiness
Reverse: A family quarrel, loss of a friendship, children may turn against their parents, waste
Page of Cups
Upright: Gentleness, sweetness, kindness, an interest in poetry or art, news
Reverse: Selfishness, little desire to create, a poor imagination
Knight of Cups
Upright: Intelligence, romantic dreamer, the coming or going of an emotional matter
Reverse: Trickery, fraud, sensuality, idleness, an untruthful person
Queen of Cups
Upright: Imagination out-ways one's common sense, a good wife or loving mother, happiness, gentle, a good natured person
Reverse: An over-active imagination, perverse, pleasure and happiness may turn bitter
King of Cups
Upright: A business man, a man of law, kindness, a considerate person, a willingness to take on responsibility, and enjoyment of the arts or sciences
Reverse: A powerful man but a double-dealer, crafty, violent, scandal
Swords : Usually predict aggression, force, ambition, courage, strife, misfortune
Ace of Swords
Upright: Beginning of a victory, ability to love and hate with ardor, a valiant leader may be born
Reverse: Caution when trying to use power to gain an ending, obstacles, tyranny
Two of Swords
Upright: Well balanced emotions are needed, indecision, trouble ahead, in need of direction
Reverse: Release, beware when dealing with the unscrupulous
Three of Swords
Upright: Affections may experience "stormy weather", lovers separated, possible civil war
Reverse: Disorder, confusion, loss, sorrow due to loss
Four of Swords
Upright: Rest after strife, retreat, temporary exile, a change back to the "active life"
Reverse: Renewed activity, social unrest, labor strikes
Five of Swords
Upright: Failure, defeat, cowardliness, cruelty, an empty victory
Reverse: A lesser chance of loss or defeat, an empty victory, unfairness in dealings
Six of Swords
Upright: A journey, passage away from sorrow, harmony will prevail
Reverse: Journey will be postponed, no way out of present obstacles or difficulties
Seven of Swords
Upright: An unwise attempt, unreliability, betrayal, insolence, spying, possible failure
Reverse: Excessive help is given, good advice, counsel, stolen items are returned
Eight of Swords
Upright: Restricted action, indecision, censure, temporary illness, weakness, a prisoner
Reverse: Relaxation, new beginnings possible, freedom
Nine of Swords
Upright: Suffering, doubt, desolation, illness, injury, death of a loved one, suspicion, cruelty, misery, loss, dishonesty, pitilessness, slander
Reverse: Healing over time, unselfishness, patience, good news of a loved one
Ten of Swords
Upright: Sudden misfortune, ruin of plans, defeat, failure, pain and tears
Reverse: Evil forces are overthrown, courage, some success, better health
Page of Swords
Upright: Dexterity, grace, diplomacy, understanding, an upsetting message
Reverse: A cunning person, an imposture, ill health, unexpected events
Knight of Swords
Upright: A headlong rush into life, a strong man, bravery, a skillful and clever person, an unexpected coming or going of a matter
Reverse: Tyranny, a troublemaker, a crafty and secretive person
Queen of Swords
Upright: A quick and confident decision, a widow, one who can bear their sorrow
Reverse: Cruelty due to keen observations, a sly and deceitful person, narrow-mindedness, a gossip
King of Swords
Upright: A judge, a powerful commander, a firm friendship holder but often overcautious, a wise counselor
Reverse: Evil intentions, an obstinate person, decisions or judgments may seem unfair
Pentacles : Usually predict money, industry, and material gain
Ace of Pentacles
Upright: A new business venture, the beginning of prosperity, beginning of happiness or pleasure
Reverse: Possible greed or misery, money may not be everything
Two of Pentacles
Upright: The ability to handle multiple situations, harmony is maintained during change, new projects may be difficult, expect a helpful message
Reverse: Difficulty with handling problems, expect a discouraging message
Three of Pentacles
Upright: Reward for skills or abilities, approval, success through effort
Reverse: Quality in workmanship is neglected, good work is expended due to a preoccupation with money, common place ideals or ambitions
Four of Pentacles
Upright: Love of power or money, a lack of give-and-take, miserly or ungenerous nature
Reverse: Some earthly possessions may be lost, obstacles or delays in business affairs, a spendthrift.
Five of Pentacles
Upright: Loneliness, destitution, loss of possessions, poor health, despair due to spiritual impoverishment
Reverse: New employment, revived courage, a new interest
Six of Pentacles
Upright: Sharing of prosperity, one will soon receive what is rightfully theirs, charity, gifts, philanthropy, three-fold
Reverse: Bribes, unfairness, prosperity is threatened, jealousy, miserliness
Seven of Pentacles
Upright: Effort and hard work will cause growth, a pause during development, reevaluations
Reverse: Little progress, impatience, anxiety, investments may be unprofitable
Eight of Pentacles
Upright: Learning a trade or profession, employment is coming soon, skill, handiwork, small money gain
Reverse: Skills are not being used properly, a dislike of hard work, ambition is void
Nine of Pentacles
Upright: Well-being, things in life are enjoyed alone, solitude, a green thumb
Reverse: Loss is possible, danger from thieves, caution
Ten of Pentacles
Upright: Stable family, gain in wealth, property is acquired
Reverse: Family misfortune, caution, mind is dull, slothfulness
Page of Pentacles
Upright: Scholar, generosity, kindness, a careful person, learning new ideas/opinions
Reverse: Wastefulness, luxury, rebellious, opposing ideas/opinions, bad news
Knight of Pentacles
Upright: Trustworthy, a heavy and dull outlook, patience, accepting of responsibilities, an animal lover, a nature lover, the coming/going of a matter
Reverse: Irresponsible, impatience, timidness, carelessness, a standstill in affairs
Queen of Pentacles
Upright: Intelligence, thoughtfulness, a creative person, talents are used well, melancholy
Reverse: Too much dependence, neglected duties, mistrust, suspicion, not a very creative person
King of Pentacles
Upright: A chief of industry or a banker, a reliable person, a married man, solid, steadiness
Reverse: Materialistic, slow to anger, 'head is on the ground", bribes
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BLACK: The unknown, the center of the earth or situation, black shadow (anima), the dark side of the soul, new psychological territory, Darkness, formality and convention. Since black is the absence of light it can symbolize ignorance and restrictions

BLUE: Open sky, space and clear water, spirituality, tranquility, meditation, Consistency of purpose, strength and reliability

BROWN: Connected to nature and the earth, rooted in the soil Practicality, plainness and honesty

DARK RED: More violent or passionate emotions than bright red

GREEN: Healing, prosperity, fresh, young, promising, inexperienced, immature, Fertility, vegetation, stability and healing

GREY: Unawareness or deliberate indifference, Neutrality or uncertainty

OLIVE GREEN: Envy and cunning

ORANGE: Strength, success, joy, Ambition, intelligence and earthly desires combined

PINK: Emotional love, harmony, self-love, friendship

PURPLE: Spirituality, intuition, mystic ideals, a highly developed imagination

RED: Heart, soul, willpower, vitality, love, passion, courage Passion, earthly desire, action and the need to use direction, optimism and cheerfulness

REDDISH BROWN: Sensuality

VIOLET: Experiencing boundaries, a mixture of blue and red meanings

WHITE: Beginning, ending, healing, white shadow (animus), union through the mind, new intellectual frontier, purity, protection

YELLOW: Sun, consciousness, zest for life, clairvoyance, communication Pure intellect and scientific thought

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ONE CARD

This is the easiest means of divining for an answer; you have only to look at a single card. Shuffle the cards while thinking of your question, then intuitively pick out one card and turn it over.

THREE CARDS

Start by thinking of your question while you shuffle the deck, then with your left hand, cut the deck into three piles moving in a leftward direction.

Still using your left hand, pick up the pile on your right and place it on the center pile. Pick up this combined pile, and place it on the last.
Turn over the first card and place it to the far left. This card represents the past or the basis of the matter. It explains the events, circumstances or conditions that have led up to where you are now.

Turn over the next card and place it to the right of the first. This card represents the present. It reveals a new direction or condition that is coming into your being.

Repeat this step again with the third card. This card represents your future and shows the end result or the outcome of the second card.

_________ _________ _________
| Past | | Present | | Future |
|_________| |_________| |_________|

THE CELTIC CROSS

5 10
4_1(2)_6 9
3 8
7

(card # 2 lays crosswise over #1)

LAYOUT and PROCEDURE

Shuffle the cards while thinking of your question.

With your left hand, cut the deck into three piles moving in a leftward direction.

Still using your left hand, pick up the pile on your right and place it on the center pile.

Pick up this combined pile, and place it on the last.

With your left hand, lay ten cards face up in the positions shown in the diagram.

Each position has a particular significance as explained below.

CARD PLACEMENT

1. This is what covers you. It represents the general atmosphere and the client's main concern.

2. This is what crosses you for the good or ill. A card is placed sideways over #1.

3. This represents opposing forces. If it is a good card, it will help the present situation.

4. This is what is beneath you. This card represents what brought the situation about, the foundation.

5. This is what's behind you. This represents what has just happened, or the influences that are passing away.

6. This is what crowns you. The current situation and influences.

7. This is what is before you. This card represents what will happen in the very near future if the querent continues on their current path.

8. What the querent fears. Negative feelings about the question asked. The thoughts of those around you. Depicts the opinions and influences of friends and family about the matter in question.

9. The querent's hopes. Reveals the client's own hopes and ideals on the matter involved.

10. OUTCOME: This card tells what the overall final outcome will be if the querent continues on their current path. Please consider the influence of all previous cards, particularly the 6th (what is before you) card, which is a more short term representation of the final outcome

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Many people are investigating the religions of Witchcraft, Wicca and other Neo-Pagan Paths today. There are many books and reference materials available, yet after some self study, there are some folks who would like to meet and perhaps work with a physical teacher. This can be a rewarding learning experience - or it could turn out to be your worst nightmare.

There you are. You have a class/workshop/teaching group. The students are seated and waiting for you to begin. As a responsible Teacher, you have some sort of class outline that you will follow. Hopefully, you plan to touch on the subject of ethical standards in the Craft. Here are some thoughts on how- and why- to incorporate the topic into your teaching materials.

Well...where did YOU come from?

Every student has had some experience with ethical considerations before he/she shows up in your class or workshop. Take a moment to reflect on your own upbringing. How did your childhood help to form what has become YOUR personal code of ethics?

"What the child sees is what the child does."- Old Irish Saying

Did Mom and Dad crow at the dinner table over some "deal" they put over on someone else? Did they welcome new neighbors with a plate of cookies? Did your folks tell someone that they just LOVED that gift...and then threw it away after the giver had left? Did they allow you to choose your own friends? Did your parents break promises that they had made with you? Did they choose to go without something so that you could have that spiffy new pair of sneakers? Did you see them struggle with an ethical decision? How did these or other incidents at home make you feel? Did you agree with the ethical choices that your parents made then? How do you feel about their decisions and actions now?

And remember High School? What about that unwritten law that everyone knew about? No matter what another student did, you just never ever "ratted them out"...This is typical adolescent "group think", but as most of us mature, ethical choices become more complex and less "black and white." (Unfortunately, some people never grow out of the adolescent stage!)

Think about your personal ethical values. While you probably don't really want to "preach" to your students, you DO want them to reflect about the decisions that they may face as practitioners representing the Craft.

So...There they sit. Students at many different stages of ethical thinking.-and you, the Teacher-are about to teach them Magick! ("Calm blue ocean," think "calm blue ocean"...)

Finding The Meaning Behind The Words:

"The greatest thing a human mind does in this world is to 'see". Hundreds of people can talk for one that can think, but thousands can think for one who can see. To see clearly is poetry, prophecy and religion-all in one."
-Ruskin.

It should be pointed out that the ABCDEF is founded upon both modern psychological theories about mental health and personal growth, and my many years of participant observation and historical research into minority belief systems. Those who believe that relativism and anarchy are as dangerous to mental health as absolutism and authoritarianism, could (I suppose) count groups with total scores nearing either extreme (high or low) as being equally hazardous. As far as dangers to physical well-being are concerned, however, both historical records and current events clearly indicate the direction in which the greatest threats lie. This is especially so since the low-scoring groups usually seem to have survival and growth rates so small that they seldom develop the abilities to commit large scale atrocities even had they the philosophical or political inclinations to do so.

Tarot for the Computer Age

0. The FOOL: a manager using a SPARCStation 413,1432 to run a screensaver.

1. The MAGICIAN: a hacker with a Mac, a Pentium box, a Sparc, and a Cray on the table in front of him --- all running the same program with the same GUI. An infinity sign is over his head.

2. The HIGH PRIESTESS: a woman holding the Documentation, closed and concealed. The crescent moon is showing on an Indigo behind her..

3. The EMPEROR: Steve Jobs sitting on a NeXT cube, holding an optical disk vertically in his hand.

4. The EMPRESS: A secretary with a NeXT Machine.

5. The HEIROPHANT: Bill Gates with two flunkies kneeling before him, their faces averted, offering
him floppy disks. He wears a laptop computer on his head.

6. The LOVERS: a PowerMAC and an IBM Power PC exchanging software as an angel bathed in glory
regards them.

7. The CHARIOT: A man in a chariot, hurtling up an exponential curve, drawn by the twin sphinxes
of Technology (black) and Culture (white).

8. STRENGTH: A woman holding the entire design and implementation of Microsoft Excel in her mind as she corrects the final error. An infinity sign is over her head.

9. The HERMIT: An old hacker, white-bearded, burns the midnight oil; its Star-of-David flame illuminates his keyboard.

10. The WHEEL OF FORTUNE: A rotating wheel. Cray is on the side going down, despite its good technology; Smalltalk is opposite it, and C++ is sitting on top. Four winged beings -- a mouse, a turtle, a dog-cow, and a human -- look on.

11. JUSTICE. A cold-faced woman holds a calculator in one hand and a delete-key in the other.

12. The HANGED MAN: A programmer is tied by his ankle to a cable duct. His phase is completely
shifted: he awakens at sunset, he sleeps at dawn. His monitor is reverse-video. He programs on,
flawlessly, oblivious to his circumstances.

13. DEATH: A skeleton wielding a scythe surveys a field, on which are scattered PDP-11s, Apple ]['s,
IBM 360/91's, Xerox Alto's, and many other machines.

14. TEMPERANCE: An angel stands with one foot on her chair and one on the floor, as she copies files from one disk to another. A cursor blinks from her chest.

15. The DEVIL: The goat-headed Lord of the Pit stands on a pile of Windows manuals, holding an
inverted torch in one hand. Two humans, male and female, are in chains at his feet.

16. The TOWER: An ivory tower is struck by a bolt of lightning. Two robed figures, denied tenure,
are hurtled to the ground.

17. The STAR: A Mac is running its `warp' screen saver, in a transient fragile moment of peace.

18. The MOON: A wolf and a jackal are typing at two PC's. A crayfish crawls out of a pool, offering
suggestions that may ultimately prove deadly. The moon shines through a window.

19. The SUN: A naked child riding a winged rocking horse programs clever applications on a high-quality workstation.

20. JUDGEMENT: An angel blows a trumpet; all over the net, web pages arise, to be rated Cool or not.

21. The WORLD: A woman dances on the clouds, unclothed, unencumbered, in a ring of clouds,
a 3-d mouse in each hand. The four winged beings from the Wheel of Fortune surround her.

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