~Public Contents of the Book of Shadows Gardnerian Traditional Witchcraft
The Public Contents of the Book of Shadows
There is really no such thing as the text of the Book of Shadows, because
I have grouped the documents according to the dates when they were written; these dates are accurate to within a year or so, and the point to providing them, of course, is to emphasize that these documents are modern creations, NOT anything preserved from ancient or medieval tradition. Material or comments added to these documents later on I have enclosed in square brackets [these things].
A.1. Casting the
Circle (1949)
It is most convenient to mark the circle with chalk, paint or otherwise, to show where it is; but marks on the carpet may be utilized. Furniture may be placed to indicate the bounds. The only circle that matters is the one drawn before every ceremony with either a duly consecrated Magic Sword or an Athame. The circle is usually nine feet in diameter, unless made for some very special purpose. There are two outer circles, each six inches apart, so the third circle has a diameter of eleven feet.
[1] Having chosen a
place proper, take the sickle or scimitar of Art or a Witch's Athame, if thou
mayest obtain it, and stick it into the center, then take a cord, and 'twere
well to use the Cable Tow for this, and loop it over the Instrument, four and
one half feet, and so trace out the circumference of the circle, which must be
traced either with the Sword, or the knife with the black hilt, or it be of
little avail, but ever leave open a door towards the North. Make in all 3 circles, one within the other,
and write names of power between these.
[2] First draw
circle with Magic Sword or Athame.
[3] Consecrate Salt
and Water: Touch water with Athame, saying, "I exorcise thee, O creature
of Water, that thou cast out from Thee all the impurities and uncleannesses of
the Spirits of the World of Phantasm, so they may harm me not, in the names of
Aradia and Cernunnos."
[4] Touching Salt
with Athame, say, "The Blessings of Aradia and Cernunnos be upon this
creature of Salt, and let all malignity and hindrance be cast forth hencefrom,
and let all good enter herein, for without Thee man cannot live, wherefore I
bless thee and invoke thee, that thou mayest aid me."
[5] Then put the
Salt into the water.
[6] Sprinkle with
exorcised water.
[7] Light candles;
say, "I exorcise thee, O Creature of Fire, that every kind of Phantasm may
retire from thee, and be unable to harm or deceive in any way, in the names of
Aradia and Cernunnos."
[8] Caution
initiate (if any); warn companions; enter circle and close doors with 3
pentagrams.
[9] Proclaim object
of working
[10] Circumambulate
3 times or more before commencing work.
[11] Summon:
"I summon, stir, and Call thee up, thou Mighty Ones of the East, South,
West, and North." Salute and draw
pentacle with Magic Sword or Athame, the first stroke being from the top down
to the left.
A.2. Drawing Down the Moon (1949)
High Priestess stands in front of Altar, assumes
Goddess position (arms crossed).
Magus, kneeling in
front of her, draws pentacle on her body with Phallus-headed Wand, invokes,
"I Invoke and beseech Thee, O mighty Mother of all life and fertility. By seed and root, by stem and bud, by leaf
and flower and fruit, by Life and Love, do I invoke Thee to descend into the
body of thy servant and High Priestess [name]."
The Moon having
been drawn down, i.e., link established, Magus and other men give Fivefold
Kiss:
(kissing feet)
"Blessed be thy feet, that have brought thee in these ways";
(kissing knees)
"Blessed be thy knees, that shall kneel at the sacred altar";
(kissing womb)
"Blessed be thy womb, without which we would not be";
(kissing breasts)
"Blessed be thy breasts, formed in beauty and in strength";
(kissing lips)
"Blessed be thy lips, that shall speak the sacred names."
Women all bow.
If there be an initiation, then at this time the
Magus and the High Priestess in Goddess position (Arms Crossed) says the Charge
while the Initiate stands outside the circle.
A.3. "Lift Up the Veil" [The Charge]
(1949)
Magus: "Listen
to the words of the Great mother, who of old was also called among men Artemis,
Astarte, Dione, Melusine, Aphrodite, Cerridwen, Diana, Arianrhod, Bride, and by
many other names."
High Priestess:
"At mine Altars the youth of Lacedaemon in
"Whenever ye have need of anything, once in the month, and better it be when the moon is full, ye shall assemble in some secret place and adore the spirit of Me who am Queen of all Witcheries and magics.
"There ye
shall assemble, ye who are fain to learn all sorcery, yet have not won its deepest secrets. To these will I teach things that are yet
unknown.
"And ye shall
be free from slavery, and as a sign that ye be really free, ye shall be naked
in your rites, both men and women, and ye shall dance, sing, feast, make music,
and love, all in my praise.
"There is a
Secret Door that I have made to establish the way to taste even on earth the
elixir of immortality. Say, `Let ecstasy
be mine, and joy on earth even to me, To Me,'
For I am a gracious Goddess. I
give unimaginable joys on earth, certainty, not faith, while in life! And upon death, peace unutterable, rest, and
ecstasy, nor do I demand aught in sacrifice."
Magus: "Hear
ye the words of the Star Goddess."
High Priestess:
"I love you: I yearn for you: pale or purple, veiled or voluptuous.
"I who am all
pleasure, and purple and drunkenness of the innermost senses, desire you. Put on the wings, arouse the coiled splendor
within you.
"Come unto me,
for I am the flame that burns in the heart of every man, and the core of every
Star.
"Let it be
your inmost divine self who art lost in the constant rapture of infinite joy.
"Let the
rituals be rightly performed with joy and beauty. Remember that all acts of love and pleasure
are my rituals. So let there be beauty
and strength, leaping laughter, force and fire by within you.
"And if thou
sayest, `I have journeyed unto thee, and it availed me not,' rather shalt thou
say, `I called upon thee, and I waited patiently, and Lo, thou wast with me
from the beginning,' for they that ever desired me shall ever attain me, even
to the end of all desire."
This much of the rites must ever be performed to prepare for any
initiation, whether of one degree or of all three.
A.4. The Initiation (1949)
[First Degree]
Magus leaves circle
by the doorway, goes to Postulant, and says, "Since there is no other
brother here, I must be thy sponsor, as well as priest. I am about to give you a warning. If you are still of the same mind, answer it
with these words: `Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.'"
Placing the point
of the sword to the Postulant's breast, he says, "O thou who standeth on
the threshold between the pleasant world of men and the domains of the Dread
Lords of the Outer Spaces, hast thou the courage to make the Assay? For I tell thee verily, it were better to
rush on my weapon and perish miserably than to make the attempt with fear in
thy heart."
Postulant: "I
have two Passwords: Perfect Love and Perfect Trust."
Magus drops the
sword point, saying, "All who approach with perfect love and perfect trust
are doubly welcome."
Going around behind
her, he blindfolds her, then putting his left arm around her waist and his
right arm around her neck, he pulls her head back, says, "I give you the
3rd password, a Kiss to pass through this dread Door," and pushes her
forward with his body, through the doorway and into the circle. Once inside, he releases her saying,
"This is the way all are first brought into the circle."
Magus closes the
doorway by drawing the point of the sword across it three times, joining all
three circles, saying, "Agla, Azoth, Adonai," then drawing three
pentacles to seal it.
Magus guides
Postulant to south of altar, and whispers, "Now there is the Ordeal."
Taking a short piece of cord from the altar, he ties it around her right ankle,
saying, "Feet neither bound nor free." Taking a longer cord, he ties her hands
together behind her back, then pulls them up, so that the arms form a triangle,
and ties the cord around her neck, leaving the end dangling down in front as a
Cable Tow.
With the Cable Tow
in his left hand and the sword in his right hand, the Magus leads her sunwise
around the circle to the east, where he salutes with the sword and proclaims,
"Take heed, O Lords of the Watchtowers of the East, (name), properly
prepared, will be made a Priestess and a Witch."
Magus leads her
similarly to the south, west, and north, making the proclamation at each
quarter.
Next, clasping
Postulant around the waist with his left arm, and holding the sword erect in
his right hand, he makes her circumambulate three times around the circle with
a half-running, half-dancing step.
He halts her at the
south of the altar, and strikes eleven knells on the bell. He then kneels at her feet, saying, "In
other religions the postulant kneels, as the Priests claim supreme power, but
in the Art Magical, we are taught to be humble, so we kneel to welcome them and
say:
"Blessed be
thy feet that have brought thee in these ways." (He kisses her feet.)
"Blessed be
thy knees that shall kneel at the sacred altar." (He kisses her knees.)
"Blessed be
thy womb, without which we would not be." (He kisses her Organ of
Generation.)
"Blessed by
thy breasts, formed in beauty and in strength." (He kisses her breasts.)
"Blessed be
thy lips, which shall utter the sacred names." (He kisses her lips.)
Take measure thus:
height, around forehead, across the heart, and across the genitals.
Magus says,
"Be pleased to kneel," and helps her kneel before the altar. He ties the end of the Cable Tow to a ring in
the altar, so that the postulant is bent sharply forward, with her head almost
touching the floor. He also ties her
feet together with the short cord.
Magus strikes three
knells on the bell and says, "Art ready to swear that thou wilt always be
true to the Art?"
Witch: "I
am."
Magus strikes seven
knells on the bell and says, "Before ye are sworn, art willing to pass the
ordeal and be purified?"
Witch: "I
am."
Magus strikes
eleven knells on the bell, takes the scourge from the altar, and gives a series
of three, seven, nine, and 21 strokes with the scourge across the postulant's
buttocks.
Magus says,
"Ye have bravely passed the test.
Art always ready to help, protect, and defend thy Brothers and Sisters
of the Art?"
Witch: "I
am."
Magus: "Art
armed?"
Witch: "With a
knife in my hair."
Magus: "Then
on that knife wilt thou swear absolute secrecy?"
Witch: "I
will."
Magus: "Then say
after me. `I, (name), in the presence of the Mighty Ones, do of my own will and
accord, most solemnly swear that I will ever keep secret and never reveal the
secrets of the Art, except it be to a proper person, properly prepared, within
a circle such as I am now in. All this I
swear by my hopes of a future life, mindful that my measure has been taken, and
may my weapons turn against me if I break this my solemn oath.'"
Magus now unbinds
her feet, unties the Cable Tow from the altar, removes the blindfold, and helps
her up to her feet.
Magus says, "I
hereby sign thee with the triple sign.
"I consecrate
thee with oil." (He anoints her
with oil on the womb, the right breast, the left breast, and the womb again.)
"I consecrate
thee with wine." (He anoints her with wine in the same pattern.)
"I consecrate
thee with my lips" (he kisses her in the same pattern), "Priestess
and Witch."
Magus now unbinds
her hands and removes the last cord, saying,
"Now I Present to thee the Working Tools of a Witch.
"First the Magic
Sword. With this, as with the Athame,
thou canst form all Magic Circles, dominate, subdue, and punish all rebellious
Spirits and Demons, and even persuade the Angels and Geniuses. With this in your hand you are the ruler of
the Circle. [Here "kiss" means that the initiate kisses the tool, and
the Magus then kisses the Witch being initiated.]
"Next I
present the Athame. This is the true
Witch's weapon and has all the powers of the Magic Sword [kiss].
"Next I
present the White-Handled Knife. Its use is to form all instruments used in the
Art. It can only be properly used within
a
"Next I
present the Wand. Its use is to call up and control certain Angels and
geniuses, to whom it would not be mete to use the Magic Sword [Kiss].
"Next I
present the pentacles. These are for the
purpose of calling up appropriate Spirits [Kiss].
"Next I
present the Censer of Incense. This is used to encourage and welcome Good
Spirits and to banish Evil Spirits.[kiss]
"Next I
present the scourge. This is a sign of power and domination. It is also to
cause suffering and purification, for it is written, to learn you must suffer
and be purified. Art willing to suffer to learn?"
Witch: "I
am."[Kiss]
Magus: "Next,
and lastly I present the Cords. They are
of use to bind the sigils in the Art, the material basis, and to enforce thy
will. Also they are necessary in the oath.
I Salute thee in the name of Aradia and Cernunnos, Newly made Priestess
and Witch."
Magus strikes seven
knells on the bell and kisses Witch again, then circumambulates with her,
proclaiming to the four quarters, "Hear, ye Mighty Ones, (name) hath been
consecrated Priestess and Witch of the Gods."
(Note, if ceremony
ends here, close circle with "I thank ye for attending, and I dismiss ye
to your pleasant abodes. Hail and
farewell." If not, go to next degree.)
[Second Degree]
Magus binds Witch
as before, but does not blindfold her, and circumambulates with her, proclaims
to the four quarters, "Hear, ye Mighty Ones, (name), a duly consecrated Priestess
and Witch, is now properly prepared to be made a High Priestess and Witch
Queen."
Magus now leads her
thrice around the circle with the half-running, half-dancing step, halts south
of the altar, has the Witch kneel, and ties her down to the altar as before.
Magus: "To
attain this sublime degree, it is necessary to suffer and be purified. Art ready to suffer to Learn?"
Priestess Witch:
"I am."
Magus: "I
prepare thee to take the great oath."
He strikes three
knells on the bell, and again gives the series of three, seven, nine, and 21
strokes with the scourge as before.
Magus: "I now
give thee a new name: _______. [kiss]
Magus: "Repeat
thy new name after me, <saying> I, (name), swear upon my mother's womb
and by mine Honor among men and among my brothers and sisters of the Art, that
I will never reveal to any at all any of the secrets of the Art, except it be
to a worthy person, properly prepared, in the center of a Magic Circle, such as
I am now in. This I swear by my hopes of
Salvation, my past lives, and my hopes of future ones to come, and I devote
myself to utter destruction if I break this my solemn oath."
Magus kneels,
placing left hand under her knees and right hand on her head, thus forming
magic link.
Magus: "I
hereby will all my power into you." Wills.
Magus now unties
her feet, unties the Cable Tow from the altar, and helps the Witch to her feet.
Magus: "I
hereby sign and consecrate you with the great Magic Sign. Remember how it is
formed and you will always recognize it.
"I consecrate
thee with oil." (He anoints her with oil on her womb, right breast, left
hip, right hip, left breast, and womb again, thus tracing a point-down
pentacle.)
"I consecrate
thee with wine." (He anoints her with wine in the same pattern.)
"I consecrate
thee with my lips" (he kisses her in the same pattern), "High
Priestess and Witch Queen."
Magus now unbinds
Witch's hands and removes the cord, saying, "Newly made High Priestess and
Witch Queen" [kiss] "you will now use the working tools in turn. First, the Magic Sword; with it you will
scribe the
"Secondly, the
Athame" (
"Thirdly, the
White Handled Knife" (use) [kiss]
"Fourthly, the
Wand" (Wave to 4 Quarters) [kiss]
"Fifthly, the
Pentacle" (Show to 4 Quarters) [kiss]
"Sixthly, the
Censer of Incense" (Circle, cense) [kiss]
"Seventhly,
the cords; bind me as I bound you."
Witch binds Magus
and ties him to Altar.
Magus: "Learn,
in Witchcraft, thou must ever return triple.
As I scourged thee, so thou must scourge me, but triple. So where you
received 3, return 9; where you received 7, return 21; where you received 9,
return 27; where you received 21, return 63."
Witch scourges
Magus as instructed, 120 strokes total.
Magus: "Thou
hast obeyed the Law. But mark well, when
thou receivest good, so equally art bound to return good threefold."
Witch now unbinds
Magus and helps him to his feet.
Magus, taking the
new Initiate by the hand and holding the Athame in the other, passes once round
the Circle, proclaiming at the Four Quarters, "Hear, Ye Mighty Ones,
(name) hath been duly consecrated High Priestess and Witch Queen."
(Note, if ceremony
ends here, close circle with "Hail and farewell." If not go to next
degree.)
[Third Degree]
Magus: "Ere we
proceed with this sublime degree, I must beg purification at thy hands."
High Priestess
binds Magus and ties him down to the altar.
She circumambulates three times, and scourges Magus with three, seven,
nine, and 21 strokes. She then unbinds
him and helps him to his feet.
Magus now binds the
High Priestess and ties her down to the altar. He circumambulates, proclaiming
to the four quarters, "Hear, ye mighty Ones, the twice consecrate and Holy
(name), High Priestess and Witch Queen, is properly prepared and will now
proceed to erect the Sacred Altar."
Magus scourges High
Priestess with three, seven, nine, and 21 strokes.
Cakes and wine may
now be taken [see section A.5].
Magus: "Now I
must reveal to you a great Mystery." [kiss].
Note: if High
Priestess has performed this rite before, omit these words.
High Priestess
assumes Osiris position.
Magus: "Assist
me to erect the Ancient Altar, at which in days past all worshipped, the Great
Altar of all things. For in the old
times a woman was the Altar. Thus was
the altar made and so placed [Priestess lies down in such a way that her vagina
is approximately at the center of the circle], and the sacred place was the
point within the center of the circle, as we of old times have been taught,
that the point within the center is the origin of all things. Therefore should we adore it." [kiss]
"Therefore,
whom we adore, we also invoke, by the power of the lifted lance." Invokes.
"O circle of
stars [kiss], whereof our Father is but the younger brother [kiss],
"Marvel beyond
imagination, soul of infinite space, before whom time is ashamed, the mind
bewildered and understanding dark, not unto thee may we attain unless thine
image be of love [kiss].
"Therefore, by
seed and root, and stem and bud and leaf and flower and fruit do we invoke
thee, O, Queen of space, O dew of light, O continuous one of the Heavens
[kiss].
"Let it be
ever thus, that men speak not of Thee as one, but as none, and let them not
speak of thee at all, since thou art continuous, for thou art the point within
the circle [kiss], which we adore [kiss], the fount of life without which we
would not be [kiss].
"And in this
way truly are erected the Holy Twin Pillars Boaz and Jachin [kisses
breasts]. In beauty and strength were
they erected, to the wonder and glory of all men."
(Eightfold Kiss: 3
points, Lips, 2 Breasts and back to lips; 5 points)
"O Secrets of
secrets that art hidden in the being of all lives. Not thee do we adore, for that which adoreth
is also thou. Thou art that and That am
I [kiss].
"I am the
flame that burns in every man, and in the core of every star [kiss].
"I am Life and
the giver of Life, yet therefore is the knowledge of me the Knowledge of Death
[kiss].
"I am alone,
the Lord within ourselves whose name is Mystery of Mysteries [kiss].
"Make open the
path of intelligence between us. For
these truly are the 5 points of fellowship [on the right appears an illuminated
diagram of the point-up triangle above the pentacle, the symbol for the third
degree], feet to feet, knee to knee, groin to groin, breast to breast, arms
around back, lips to lips, by the Great and Holy Names Abracadabra, Aradia, and
Cernunnos.
Magus and High
Priestess: "Encourage our hearts, Let thy Light crystallize itself in our
blood, fulfilling us of Resurrection, for there is no part of us that is not of
the Gods."
(Exchange Names.)
Closing the Circle
High Priestess
Circumambulates, proclaiming, "The twice consecrate High Priestess greets
ye Mighty Ones, and dismisseth ye to your pleasant abodes. Hail and
Farewell." She draws the banishing pentacle at each quarter.
A.5. Cakes and Wine (1949)
Magus kneels, fills
Cup, offers to Witch [she is seated on the altar, holding her athame; Priest
kneels before her, holding up the cup].
Witch, holding
Athame between palms, places point in cup.
Magus: "As the
Athame is the Male, so the Cup is the female; so, conjoined, they bring
blessedness."
Witch lays aside Athame, takes Cup in both hands, drinks and gives drink.
Magus Holds Paten
to Witch, who blesses with Athame, then eats and gives to Eat.
It is said that in
olden days ale or mead was often used instead of wine. It is said that spirits or anything can be
used so long as it has life.
A.6. The Sabbat Rituals (1949)
November Eve
Walk or slow dance,
Magus leading High Priestess, both carrying Phallic wand or broom, people with
torches or candles. Witch chant or song:
"Eko, eko, Azarak Eko, eko, Zomelak
Bazabi lacha bachabe Lamac cahi achababe Karrellyos Lamac lamac Bachalyas cabahagy sabalyos
Baryolos Lagoz atha cabyolas Samahac atha famolas Hurrahya!"
Form circle.
High Priestess
assumes Goddess position.
Magus gives her
Fivefold Kiss and is scourged.
All are purified
[that is, bound and scourged with forty strokes, as in the initiation rituals].
Magus assumes God
position.
High Priestess
invokes with Athame: "Dread Lord of
the shadows, god of life and the giver of life. Yet is the knowledge of thee
the knowledge of death. Open wide, I pray thee, thy gates through which all
must pass. Let our dear ones who have
gone before, return this night to make merry with us. And when our time comes, as it must, O thou
the comforter, the consoler, the giver of peace and rest, we will enter thy
realms gladly and unafraid, for we know that when rested and refreshed among
our dear ones, we shall be born again by thy grace and the grace of the Great
Mother. Let it be in the same place and
the same time as our beloved ones, and may we meet and know, and love them
again. Descend, we pray thee, upon thy
servant and Priest (name)."
High Priestess
gives Fivefold Kiss to Magus.
Initiations if any;
all others are purified.
(Note: Couples may
purify each other if they will.)
Cakes and Wine.
The Great Rite if
possible, either in token or truly.
Dismiss [the
guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then stay to] feast and
dance.
February Eve
After usual
opening, all are doubly purified [that is, with eighty strokes].
Dance round outside
circle, High Priestess with sword girded on and drawn, Phallic wand in left
hand.
Enter circle.
Magus assumes God
position.
High Priestess
gives Fivefold Kiss, invokes: "Dread Lord of death and Resurrection, life
and the giver of life, Lord within ourselves, whose name is Mystery of
Mysteries, encourage our hearts. Let the light crystalize in our blood,
fulfilling us of resurrection, for there is no part of us that is not of the
gods. Descend, we pray thee, upon this thy servant and Priest (name)."
All should be
purified in sacrifice before him. He
then purifies the High Priestess with his own hands, and others if he will.
Cakes and wine.
Great Rite if
possible, in token or real.
Games and dance as
the people will.
Dismiss [the
guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then stay to] feast and
dance.
May Eve
If possible ride
poles, brooms, etc. High Priestess leading, quick dance step, singing
"O do not tell
the priests of our arts.For they would call it sin,
For we will be in
the woods all nightA conjuring summer in.
And we bring you
good news by word of mouthFor women, cattle, and corn:
The sun is coming
up from the south,With oak and ash, and thorn."
Meeting dance if
possible.
Form circle as
usual, and purify.
High Priestess
assumes Goddess position; officers all give her the fivefold kiss.
She purifies all.
High Priestess
again assumes Goddess position.
Magus invokes,
draws down moon, "I invoke thee and call upon thee, O mighty Mother of us
all, bringer of all fruitfulness, By seed and root, by stem and bud, by leaf
and flower and fruit, by life and love, do we invoke thee, to descend upon the
body of thy servant and Priestess here."
Magus gives
Fivefold Kiss to High Priestess.
All should be
purified in sacrifice before her, and she should purify Magus and some others
with her own hands.
Cakes and wine.
Games.
Great Rite if
possible, in token or truly.
Dismiss [the guardians,
and close down the magic circle; the people then stay to] feast and dance.
August Eve
If possible, ride
poles, broomsticks, etc.
Meeting Dance if
possible [the double-spiral dance described in Witchcraft Today, p. 167].
Form circle.
Purify.
High Priestess
stands in pentacle position.
Magus invokes her:
"O mighty Mother of us all, Mother of all fruitfulness, give us fruit and
grain, flocks and herds and children to the tribe that we be mighty, by thy
rosy love, do thou descend upon thy servant and Priestess (name) here."
Magus gives
Fivefold Kiss to High Priestess.
Candle game: Seated, the men form a circle, passing a
lighted candle from hand to hand "deosil". The women form circle outside, trying to blow
it out over their shoulders. Whoever's
hand it is in when it is blown out is 3 times purified by whoever blew it out,
giving fivefold Kiss in return. This
game may go on as long as the people like.
Cakes and wine, and
any other games you like.
Dismiss [the
guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then stay to] feast and
dance.
B.1. On Chants (1953)
Of old there were
many chants and songs used especially in the Dances. Many of these have been forgotten by us here,
but we know that they used cries of IAU which seems muchly like the cries EVO
or EVOHE of the ancients. Much dependeth
on the pronunciation if this be so. In
my youth, when I heard IAU it seemed to be AEIOU, or rather, AAAEEIOOOOUU. This may be but the natural way to prolong it
to make it fit for a call, but it suggests that these be possibly the initials
of an invocation as Agla is said to be, and of sooth 'tis said that the whole
Hebrew alphabet is said to be such, and for this reason is recited as a most
powerful charm, but at least this is certain, these cries during the dances do
have profound effect, as I myself have seen.
Other calls are
IEHOUA and EHEIE; also Ho Ho Ho Ise Ise Ise.
IEO VEO VEO VEO
VEOV OROV OV OVOVO may be a spell but is more likely to be a call. 'Tis like the EVOE EVOE of the Greeks and the
"Heave ho!" of sailors.
"Emen hetan" and "Ab hur, ab hus" seem calls; as
"Horse and hattock, horse and go, horse and Pellatis, ho, ho, ho!"
"Thout, tout a tout tout, throughout and about" and "Rentum tormentum" are probably mispronounced attempts at a forgotten formula, though they may have been invented by some unfortunate being tortured, to evade telling the real formula.
B.2. To Help the Sick (1953)
[1] Ever remember
the promise of the goddess, "For
ecstasy is mine and joy on earth" so let there ever be joy in your
heart. Greet people with joy, be glad to
see them. If times be hard, think,
"It might have been worse. I at
least have known the joys of the Sabbath, and I will know them
again." Think of the grandeur,
beauty, and Poetry of the rites, of the loved ones you meet through them. If you dwell on this inner joy, your health
will be better. You must try to banish
all fear, for it will really touch
you. It may hurt your body, but your soul is beyond it all.
[2] And ever
remember, that if you help others it makes you forget your own woes. And if another be in pain, do what you may to
distract his attention from it. Do not
say "You have no pain," but if you may, administer the drugs which
sooth as well as those that cure. But
ever strive to make them believe they are getting better. Install into them happy thoughts. If you can only get this into his inner mind
so that it be always believed.
[3] To this end it
is not wrong to let people think that we of the cult have more power than we
have. For the truth is that if they
believe we have more power than we really possess, we do really possess these
powers, insomuch we can do good to them.
[4] You must try to
find out about people. If you tell a
slightly sick man, "You are looking better. You will soon be well," he will feel
better, but if he is really ill, or in pain, his Knowledge that he is in pain
will cause him to doubt your words in future.
But if you give him one of the drugs and then say, "The pain is
growing less. Soon it will be
gone," because the pain goes, the next time you say, "The pain is
going," he will believe you and the pain will really get less. But you must ever say so with conviction, and
this conviction must come from your believing it yourself, because you yourself
know that if you can fix his mind so that he believes you, it is true.
[5] 'Tis often
better to look exactly between their eyes, looking as if your eyes pierced
their heads, opening your eyes as wide as you may and never blink. This continued gazing oft causes the patient
to grow sleepy. If they show signs of
this, say "You are growing sleepy.
You will sleep, you are tired.
Sleep. Your eyes grow tired. Sleep."
If they close their eyes, say "Your eyes close, you are tired, you
cannot open your eyes." If they
cannot, say "Your arms are tired, you cannot raise them." If they cannot, say "I am master of your
mind. You must ever believe what I tell
you. When I look like this into your
eyes you will sleep and be subject to my will," then tell them they will
sleep and wake up refreshed, feeling better.
Continue this with soothing and healing drugs, and try to infuse into
them the feeling of ecstasy that you feel at the Sabbath. They cannot feel it in full, but you can
command them to feel what is in your own mind, and try to concentrate on this
ecstasy. If you may safely tell that you
are of the Cult, your task may be easier.
And it were well to command them to know it only with their sleeping
mind, and forget it, or to be at least unable to tell anyone about it when
awake. A good way is to command them that, if they are ever questioned about
Witchcraft or Witches, to immediately fall asleep.
[6] Ever remember
if tempted to admit or boast of belonging to the cult you be endangering your
brothers, for though now the fires of persecution may have died down, who knows
when they may be revived? Many priests
have knowledge of our secrets, and they well know that, though much religious
bigotry has calmed down, many people would wish to join our cult. And if the truth were known of its joys, the
Churches would lose power, so if we take many recruits, we may loose the fires
of persecution against us again. So ever
keep the secrets.
[7] Think joy,
think love, try to help others and bring joy into their lives. Children are naturally easier to influence
than grown people. Ever strive to work
through people's existing beliefs. For instance, more than half of the world
believe in amulets. An ordinary stone is
not an amulet but if it hath a natural hole in it, it must be something
unusual, so if the patient hath this belief give him one. But first carry it next your skin for a few
days, forcing your will into it, to cure pain, to feel safe, or against their
particular fear, and this amulet may keep imposing your will when you are
absent. The masters of talismans knew
this full well when they say they must be made in a circle, to avoid
distraction, by someone whose mind is on the subject of the work.
[8] But keep your
own mind happy. Remember the Words of
the Goddess: "I give unimaginable joys on Earth, certainty, not faith,
while in life, and upon death, peace unutterable, rest, and ecstasy, and the
promise that you will return again."
In the old days many of us went to the flames laughing and singing, and
so we may again. We may have joy in life and beauty, and peace and Death and
the promise of return.
[9] The Biblespeaks sooth, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine but a broken
spirit breaketh the bones." But you
may not have a merry heart. Perchance you
were born under an evil star. I think
that the effects of the stars are overestimated, but you cannot make a merry
heart to order, you say. But you can, in
the Cult; there be secret processes by which your will and imagination may be
influenced. This process also affects
the body, and brings it to joy. Yourbody is happy, so your mind is happy.
You are well because you are happy, and you are happy because you are
well.
[10] Prayer may be used with good result if the patient believes it can and will work. Many believe it can, but do not believe their God or saint will help. Prayers to the Goddess help, especially the Amalthean Horn Prayer, as it causes stimulation to the body as well as to the mind.
B.3. The Scourge and the Kiss. (1953)
[1] Invocation
(Feet, knees, and wrists should be
tightly bound to retard blood.) Scourge 40 or more, to make skin tingle, then
say, invoking Goddess,
Hail, Aradia, from the Amalthean horn
Pour
forth thy store of Love. I lowly bend
Before Thee!
I invoke thee at the end
When
other Gods are fallen and put to scorn.
Thy foot is to my lips! My sighs inborn
Rise,
touch, curl about thy heart. Then spend,
Pitiful
Love, loveliest Pity, descend
And bring me luck who am lonely and forlorn.
Ask the Goddess to help you to obtain
your desires, then Scourge again to bind the spell. This be powerful in ill
luck and for sickness. It must be said
in a Circle, and you must be properly prepared and well purified, both before
and after saying, to bind the spell.
Before starting you must make a veryclear picture in your mind of what you wish.
Make yourself see the wish obtained.
Be sure in your own mind exactly what it is and how it is to be fulfilled.
This spell is the one that was taught to
me long ago and I have found it works, but I don't think there is any special
virtue in these words. Any others can be
substituted provided they ask the goddess's (or gods') help, and say clearly
what you wish and you form the clear mental image; and if it doesn't work at
first, keep on trying till it works.
Your helper, who wields the scourge, must know what you wish, and also
form the mental image. And at first at
any rate, it will be better for you to work the spell, then for the girl to
take your place and work it also; you scourge her. Don't try anything difficult at first, and do
it at least once a week till it works.
You have to get into sympathy with each other, before anything happens,
and regular working helps this.
Of spells, the exact words matter little
if the intent be clear and you raise the true power, and sufficient
thereof. Always in rhyme they are. There
is something queer about rhyme. I have
tried, and the same seem to lose their power if you miss the rhyme. Also in rhyme, the words seem to say
themselves. You do not have to pause and
think: "What comes next?"
Doing this takes away much of your intent.
[2] Order and discipline must be
kept. A High Priest or Priestess may and
should punish all faults to this end, and all of the Cult must accept such
corrections willingly. All are brothers
and sisters, for this reason: that even the High Priestess must submit to the
scourge. Each fault should be corrected
separately. The Priest or Priestess must
be properly prepared and call the culprit to trial. They must be prepared as for initiation and
kneel, be told their fault and sentence pronounced. Punishment should be the scourge, followed by
a forfeit such as several fivefold kisses or something of this nature. The culprit must acknowledge the justice of
the punishment by kissing hands and scourge on receiving sentence and again
when thanking for punishment received.*
[3] The scourgings are 3, 7, 9 (thrice
three), and 21 (thrice seven)
The Fivefold Kiss is called 5, but there
are 8 kisses, for there be
So a lesser number would not be perfect
prayer. If more are required make it a perfect number, as four score or six
score.
Also there be Eight Elemental Weapons.
[4] To make the anointing ointment, take
some glazed pans filled half full with grease or olive oil. Put in one sweet mint, marjoram in another,
ground thyme in a 3rd, and it you may have it, patchouli, dried leaves pounded. Place pans in hot water bath. Stir and cook for several hours, then pout
into linen bags, and squeeze grease through into pans again, and fill up with
fresh leaves. After doing this several
times, the grease will be highly perfumed.
Then mix all together and store in a well-corked jar.
Anoint behind ears, throat, armpits,
breasts, and womb. Also, for all
ceremonies where the feet are kissed, they should also be anointed.
B.4. The Priestess and the Sword (1953)
It is said,
"When a woman takes the main part in worship of the Male God, she must be
girt with a sword."
Note. This hath been explained as meaning that a
man should be Magus representing the God, but if no one of sufficient rank and
knowledge be present, a woman armed as a man may take his place. The sheath should be worn in a belt. She should carry the sword in hand, but if
she has to use her hands, she should sheath the sword. Any other woman in the circle while this
worship is performed shall be sword in hand.
Those outside the circle only have the athame.
A woman may impersonate either the God or the Goddess, but a man may only impersonate the God.
B.5. The Warning (1953)
Keep this book in
your own hand of write. Let brothers and
Sisters copy what they will, but never let this book out of your hands, and
never keep the writings of another, for if it be found in their hand of write,
they may well be taken and tortured.
Each should guard his own writings and destroy them whenever danger
threatens. Learn as much as you may by heart, and when the danger is past, rewrite
your book. For this reason, if any die,
destroy their book if they have not been able to, for, if it be found, 'tis
clear proof against them. "Ye may
not be a Witch alone"; so all their
friends be in danger of the torture. So
destroy everything not necessary.
If your book be
found on you, 'tis clear proof against you.
You may be tortured. Keep all
thought of the cult from your mind. Say
you had bad dreams, that a Devil caused you to write this without your
knowledge. Think to yourself, "I
Know Nothing. I Remember nothing. I have
forgotten all." Drive this into
your mind. If the torture be too great to bear, say, "I will confess. I cannot bear this torment. What do you want me to say? Tell me and I will say it." If they try to make you talk of the
brotherhood, do not, but if they try to make you speak of impossibilities, such
as flying through the air, consorting with the Devis, sacrificing children, or
eating men's flesh, say, "I had an evil dream. I was not myself. I was crazed."
Not all Magistrates
are bad. If there be an excuse, they may
show you mercy. If you have confessed
aught, deny it afterwards. Say you
babbled under the torture; you knew not what you did or said. If you be condemned, fear not. The Brotherhood is powerful. They may help you to escape if you are steadfast. If you betray aught, there is no hope for
you, in this life, or in that which is to come. But, 'tis sure, that if
steadfast you go to the pyre, drugs will reach you. You will feel naught, and you go but to Death
and what lies beyond, the ecstasy of the Goddess.
The same with the
working Tools. Let them be as ordinary
things that anyone may have in their homes.
The Pentacles shall be of wax that they may be melted or broken at once. Have no sword unless your rank allows you
one. Have no names or signs on
anything. Write them on in ink before
consecrating them and wash it off at once when finished.
Never boast, never threaten, never say you wish ill to anyone. If any speak of the craft, say, "Speak not to me of such, it frightens me, 'tis evil luck to speak of it."
B.6. Of the Ordeal of the Art Magical (1953)
Learn of the spirit
that goeth with burdens that have not honour, for 'tis the spirit that stoopeth
the shoulders and not the weight. Armour
is heavy, yet it is a proud burden and a man standeth upright in it. Limiting and constraining any of the senses
serves to increase the concentration of another. Shutting the eyes aids the hearing. So the binding of the initiate's hands
increases the mental perception, while the scourge increaseth the inner
vision. So the initiate goeth through it
proudly, like a princess, knowing it but serves to increase her glory.
But this can only
be done by the aid of another intelligence and in a circle, to prevent the
power thus generated being lost. Priests
attempt to do the same with their scourgings and mortifications of the
flesh. But lacking the aid of bonds and
their attention being distracted by their scourging themselves and what little
power they do produce being dissipated, as they do not usually work within a
circle, it is little wonder that they oft fail.
Monks and hermits do better, as they are apt to work in tiny cells and
coves, which in some way act as circles.
The Knights of the
But perhaps some did know? What of the Church's charge that they wore girdles or cords?
B.7. The Eightfold Way. (1953)
Eightfold Path or
Ways to the Centre.
1 Meditation or
Concentration. This in practice means
forming a mental image of what is desired, and forcing yourself to see that it
is fulfilled, with the fierce belief and knowledge that it can and will be
fulfilled, and that you will go on willing till you force it to be
fulfilled. Called for short,
"Intent"
2 Trance,
projection of the Astral.
3 Rites, Chants,
Spells, Runes, Charms, etc.
4 Incense, Drugs,
Wine, etc., whatever is used to release the Spirit. (Note. One must be very careful about
this. Incense is usually harmless, but
you must be careful. If it has bad
aftereffects, reduce the amount used, or the duration of the time it is
inhaled. Drugs are very dangerous if
taken to excess, but it must be remembered that there are drugs that are
absolutely harmless, though people talk of them with bated breath, but Hemp is
especially dangerous, because it unlocks the inner eye swiftly and easily, so
one is tempted to use it more and more.
If it is used at all, it must be with the strictest precautions, to see
that the person who uses it has no control over the supply. This should be doled out by some responsible
person, and the supply strictly limited.)
5 The Dance, and
kindred practices.
6 Blood control
(the Cords), Breath Control, and kindred practices.
7 The Scourge.
8 The Great Rite.
These are all the
ways. You may combine many of them into
the one experiment, the more the better.
The Five
Essentials:
1. The most
important is "Intention": you must know that you can and will succeed;
it is essential in every operation.
2. Preparation.
(You must be properly prepared according to the rules of the Art; otherwise you
will never succeed.)
3. The Circle must
be properly formed and purified.
4. You all must be
properly purified, several times if necessary, and this purification should be
repeated several times during the rite.
5. You must have
properly consecrated tools.
These five essentials and Eight Paths or Ways cannot all be combined in one rite. Meditation and dancing do not combine well, but forming the mental image and the dance may be well combined with Chants. Spells, etc., combined with scourging and No. 6, followed by No. 8, form a splendid combination. Meditation, following scourging, combined with Nos. 3 and 4 and 5, are also very Good. For short cuts concentration, Nos. 5, 6, 7, and 8 are excellent.
B.8. To Gain the Sight (1953)
[1] This cometh to
different people in diverse ways. 'Tis seldom it cometh naturally, but it can
be induced in many ways. Deep and
prolonged meditation may do it, but only if you be a natural, and usually
prolonged fasting was also necessary. Of
old monks and nuns obtained visions by long vigils, combined with fasting,
flagellation till the blood came, and other mortifications of the flesh, and so
undoubtedly had visions. In the East it
is tried with various tortures, at the same time sitting in cramped postures,
which retard the flow of blood, and these torments, long and continued, give
good results. But in the Art we are
taught an easier way to intensify the imagination, at the same time controlling
the blood supply, and this may best be done by using the ritual.
[2] Incense is also
good to propitiate the Spirits, but also to induce relaxation and to help to
build up the atmosphere which is neces-sary to suggestibility. (For our human
eyes are so blind to what really is, that it is often necessary to suggest that
it is there, before we may see it, as we may point out to another something at
a distance before they may see it themselves.
Gum mastic, aromatic rush roots, cinnamon bark, musk, juniper,
sandalwood, and ambergris in combination are all good, but patchouli is best of
all. And if you may have hemp, 'tis
better still, but be very careful of this.
[3] The circle
being formed, all properly prepared, and the Rites done, and all purified, the
aspirant should warlock and take his tutor round the circle, saluting the
Mighty Ones, and invoke them to aid the operation. Then both dance round till giddy, invoking or
using chants. Scourge. Then the Tutor
should warlock very tightly, but not so to cause discomfort, but enough to
retard the blood slightly. Again they
should dance round, chanting, then scourge with light, steady, monotonous, slow
strokes. lt is very good that the pupil
may see them coming (this may be arranged from position, or if a big mirror is
available, this can be used with excellent effect) as this has the effect of
passes, and helps greatly to stimulate the imagination, and it is important
that they be not hard, the object being not to do more than draw the blood to
that part and so away from the brain.
This with the tight warlocking, which should be warricked, slows down
the circulation of the blood, and the passes soon induce a drowsiness and a
stupor. The tutor should watch for
this. As soon as the aspirant sleeps,
the scourging should cease. The tutor
should also watch that the pupil become not cold, and if they struggle or
become distressed, they should be at once awakened. (Note: if it cannot be arranged for the pupil
to see, the wand may be used, for a time, then return to scourging.)
[4] Do not be
discouraged if no results come after two or three attempts. It will come, when both are in the right
state. When you get some result, then
results will come more quickly. Soon
some of the ritual may be shortened, but never neglect to invoke the Goddess,
and the Mighty Ones, or to form the Circle and do everything rightly. And for good and clear results, it is ever
better to do too much ritual than too little.
[5] It hath been
found that this practice doth often cause a fondness between aspirant and
tutor, and 'tis a cause of better results if this be so. If for any reason it is undesirable that
there be any great fondness between aspirant and tutor, this may be easily avoided,
by both parties from the onset firmly resolving in their minds that if any doth
ensue, it shall be that of brother and sister or parent and child. And it is for this reason that a man may only
be taught by a woman and a woman by a man, and that man and man, and woman and
woman, should never attempt these practices together. And may all the Curses of
the Mighty Ones be on any who make the attempt.*
[6] Remember, the Circle, properly constructed, is ever necessary to prevent the power released from being dissipated. It is also a barrier against any disturbances of mischievous forces, for to obtain good results you must be free from all disturbances. Remember that darkness, points of light gleaming amid the surrounding dark, incense, and the steady passes by a white arm are not stage effects. They are the mechanical implements which start the suggestions, which later unlocks the knowledge that it is possible to obtain the divine ecstasy, and so attain knowledge and communion with the Divine Goddess. When once you have attained this, Ritual is not needed, as you may attain the state of ecstasy at will, but till then, or if you having attained this yourself, and wish to bring a companion to this state of joy, ritual is best.
B.9. Power (1953)
Power is latent in
the body and may be drawn out and used in various ways by the skilled. But unless confined in a circle it will be
swiftly dissipated. Hence the importance
of a properly constructed circle. Power
seems to exude from the body via the skin and possibly from the orifices of the
body; hence you should be properly prepared.
The slightest dirt spoils everything, which shows the importance of
thorough cleanliness.
The attitude of
mind has great effect, so only work with a spirit of reverence. A little wine taken and repeated during the
ceremony, if necessary, helps to produce power.
Other strong drinks or drugs may be used, but it is necessary to be very
moderate, for if you are confused, even slightly, you cannot control the power
you evoke.
The simplest way is
by dancing and singing monotonous chants, slowly at first and gradually
quickening the tempo until giddiness ensues.
Then the calls may be used, or even wild and meaningless shrieking
produces power. But this method inflames
the mind and renders it difficult to control the power, though control may be
gained through practice. The scourge is
a far better way, for it stimulates and excites both body and soul, yet one
easily retains control.
The Great Rite is
far the best. It releases enormous
power, but the conditions and circumstances make it difficult for the mind to
maintain control at first. It is again a
matter of practice and the natural strength of the operator's will and, in a
lesser degree, of those of his assistants.
If, as of old, there were many trained assistants present and all wills
properly attuned, wonders occurred.
Sorcerors chiefly
used the blood sacrifice; and while we hold this to be evil, we cannot deny
that this method is very efficient.
Power flashes forth from newly shed blood, instead of exuding slowly as
by our method. The victim's terror and
anguish add keenness, and even quite a small animal can yield enormous
power. The great difficulty is in the
human mind controlling the power of the lower animal mind. But sorcerers claim they have methods for
effecting this and that the difficulty disappears the higher the animal used,
and when the victim is human disappears entirely. (The practice is an abomination but it is
so.)
Priests know this
well; and by their auto-da-fs, with the victims' pain and terror (the fires
acting much the same as circles), obtained much power.
Of old the Flagellants certainly evoked power, but through not being confined in a circle much was lost. The amount of power raised was so great and continuous that anyone with knowledge could direct and use it; and it is most probable that the classical and heathen sacrifices were used in the same way. There are whispers that when the human victim was a willing sacrifice, with his mind directed on the Great Work and with highly skilled assistants, wonders ensued but of this I would not speak.
B.10. Properly Prepared. (1953)
Naked, but sandals (not shoes) may be worn. For initiation, tie hands behind back, pull up to small of back, and tie ends in front of throat, leaving a cable-tow to lead by, hanging down in front. (Arms thus form a triangle at back.) When initiate is kneeling at altar, the cable-tow is tied to a ring in the altar. A short cord is tied like a garter round the initiate's left leg above the knee, with ends tucked in. Another is tied round right ankle and ends tucked in so as to be out of the way while moving about. These cords are used to tie feet together while initiate is kneeling at the altar and must be long enough to do this firmly. Knees must also be firmly tied. This must be carefully done. If the aspirant complains of pain, the bonds must be loosened slightly; always remember the object is to retard the blood flow enough to induce a trance state. This involves slight discomfort, but great discomfort prevents the trance state; so it is best to spend some little time loosening and tightening the bonds until they are just right. The aspirant alone can tell you when this is so. This, of course, does not apply to the initiation, as then no trance is desired; but for the purpose of ritual it is good that the initiates be bound firmly enough to feel they are absolutely helpless but without discomfort.
B.11. The Meeting Dance. (1953)
The Maiden should lead. A man should place both hands on her waist, standing behind her, and alternate men and women should do the same, the Maiden leading and they dance following her. She at last leads them into a right-hand spiral. When the center is reached (and this had better be marked by a stone), she suddenly turns and dances back, kissing each man as she comes to him. All men and women turn likewise and dance back, men kissing girls and girls kissing men. All in time to music, it is a merry game, but must be practices to be done well. Note, the musicians should watch the dancers and make the music fast or slow as is best. For the beginners it should be slow, or there will be confusion. It is most excellent to get people to know each other at big gatherings.
B.12. To Leave the Body.
(1953)
'Tis not wise to
strive to get out of your body until you have thoroughly gained the Sight. The same ritual as to gain the Sight may be
used, but have a comfortable couch. Kneel
so that you have your thigh, belly, and chest well supported, the arms strained
forward and bound one on each side, so that there is a decided feeling of being
pulled forward. As the trance is
induced, you should feel a striving to push yourself out of the top of your head. The scourge should be given a dragging
action, as if to drive or drag you out.
Both wills should be thoroughly in tune, keeping a constant and equal
strain. When trance comes, your tutor
may help you by softly calling your name.
You will probably feel yourself drawn out of your body as if through a
narrow opening, and find yourself standing beside your tutor, looking at the
body on the couch. Strive to communicate
with your tutor first; if they have the Sight they will probably see you. Go not far afield at first, and 'tis better
to have one who is used to leaving the body with you.
A note: When, having succeeded in leaving the body, you
desire to return, in order to cause the spirit body and the material body to
coincide, THINK OF YOUR FEET. This will
cause the return to take place.
B.13. The Working Tools (1953)
There are no
magical supply shops, so unless you are lucky enough to be given or sold tools,
a poor witch must extemporize. But when
made you should be able to borrow or obtain an Athame. So having made your circle, erect an
altar. Any small table or chest will
do. There must be fire on it (a candle
will suffice) and your book. For good
results incense is best if you can get it, but coals in a chafing dish burning
sweet-smelling herbs will do. A cup if
you would have cakes and wine, and a platter with the signs drawn into the same
in ink, showing a pentacle. A scourge is
easily made (note, the scourge has eight tails and five knots in each
tail). Get a white-hilted knife and a
wand (a sword is not necessary). Cut the
marks with Athame. Purify everything,
then consecrate your tools in proper form and ever be properly prepared. But ever remember, magical operations are
useless unless the mind can be brought to the proper attitude, keyed to the
utmost pitch.
Affirmations must
be made clearly, and the mind should be inflamed with desire. With this frenzy of will, you may do as much
with simple tools as with the most complete set. But good and especially ancient tools have
their own aura. They do help to bring
about that reverential spirit, the desire to learn and develop your
powers. For this reason witches ever try
to obtain tools from sorcerers, who, being skilled men, make good tools and
consecrate them well, giving them mighty power.
But a great witch's tools also gain much power; and you should ever
strive to make any tools you manufacture of the finest materials you can
obtain, to the end that they may absorb your power the more easily. And of course if you may inherit or obtain
another witch's tools, power will flow from them.
It is an old belief that the best substances for making tools are those that have once had life in them, as opposed to artificial substances. Thus wood or ivory is better for a wand than metal, which is more appropriate for knives or swords. Virgin parchment is better than manufactured paper for talismans, etc. And things which have been made by hand are good, because there is life in them.
B.14.
Skyclad (1953)
It is important to
work naked from the start, so it becometh as second nature, and no thought of
"I have no clothes" shall ever intrude and take your attention from
the work. Also, your skin being so
accustomed to unconfinement, when power is given off the flow is more easy and
regular. Also, when dancing you are free
and unconfined. . . .
And the greatest of
all, the touch of the body of your beloved thrills your inmost soul, and so
your body gives out its utmost power; and then it is most important of all that
there is not the slightest thing to divert the attention, for then the mind
must seize and mold the power generated, and redirect it to the desired end
with all the force and frenzy of the imagination.
It has been said
that no real knowledge may be gained our way, that our practices are such that
they can only lead to lust; but this is not really so. Our aim is to gain the inner sight, and we do
it the most natural and easy way. Our
opponents' aim is ever to prevent man and woman from loving, thinking that
everything that helps or even permits them to love is wicked and vile. To us it is natural, and if it aids the Great
Work it is good.
'Tis true that a
couple burning with a frenzy for knowledge may go straight to their goal, but
the average couple have not this fire.
We show them the way, our system of props and aids (i.e., magic
ritual). A couple working with nothing
but lust will never attain in any case; but a couple who love each other dearly
should already be sleeping together, and the first frenzy of love will have
passed, and their souls will already be in sympathy. If the first time or two they do stay a while
to worship Aphrodite, 'tis only a day or two lost, and the intense pleasure
they obtain only leads them again to the mysteries of Hermes, their souls more
attuned to the great search. Once they
have pierced the veil they will not look back.
This rite may be used as the greatest of magics if it be done with both partners firmly fixing their minds on the object and not thinking of sex at all. That is, you must so firmly fix your mind on your object that sex and all else are naught. You inflame your will to such an extent that you may create a strain on the astral such that events happen.
C.1. A Revision of the Casting
Procedure (1957)
ALL ARE PURIFIED
[1] Magus
consecrates salt and water.
[2] High Priestess
kneels at Altar, takes up Sword, says, "I conjure thee, O Sword of Steel,
to serve me as a defence in all Magical Operations. Guard me at all times against mine enemies,
both visible and invisible. Grant that I
may obtain what I desire in all things wherein I may use Thee, Wherefore do I
bless Thee and invoke Thee in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos." Gives Sword to Magus.
[3] Magus kneeling
hands her vessel of consecrated Water and Aspergillum. He Casts the Circle, three circles, on the
lines marked out, starting at the East and returning to the East. High Priestess follows,
[4] She walks
slowly round Circle, saying, "I conjure Thee, O Circle of Space, that thou
be a Boundary and a Protection and a meeting place between the world of Men and
that of the Dread Lords of the OUTER SPACES, that Thou be cleansed, Purified,
and strengthened to be a Guardian and a Protection that shall preserve and
contain THAT POWER which we so earnestly desire to raise within thy bounds this
night, wherefore do I bless thee and entreat thee to aid me in the endeavor, in
the names of Aradia and Cernunnos." Hands sword to Magus [handwritten].
[5] Magus then
summons the Mighty Ones as usual.
[6] High Priestess
stands in front of Altar (which may be pushed back for this). High Priestess assumes Goddess position (arms
crossed). Magus kneeling in front of
her, draws pentacle on her body with Phallus-headed Wand, Invokes (Drawing down
the Moon), "I Invoke and beseech Thee, O mighty MOTHER of all life and
fertility. `By seed and root, by stem
and bud, by leaf and flower and fruit, by Life and Love, do I invoke Thee' to
descend into the body of thy servant and High Priestess (name)." (The Moon
having been drawn down, i.e., link established, Magus and all male officers
give fivefold kiss; all others bow.)
[7] High Priestess
in Goddess position says Arms
Crossed
"Mother,
Darksome and Divine,Mine the Scourge and Mine the Kiss,The Five-point Star of
Love and Bliss;
Here I charge ye in
this Sign.
(Opens
out Arms to pentacle position)
Bow before my
Spirit bright (All
bow)Aphrodite, Arianrhod,Lover of the Horned God,
Queen of Witchery
and Night.
Diana, Brigid,
Melusine,
Am I named of old by men,
Artemis and Cerridwen,
Hell's dark mistress,
Heaven's Queen.
Ye who ask of me a
boon,
Meet ye in some hidden shade,
Lead my dance in greenwood glade
By the light of the
full moon.
Dance about mine
altar stone,
Work my holy magistry,
Ye who are fain of sorcery,
I bring ye secrets
yet unknown.
No more shall ye
know slavery
who tread my round the Sabbat night.
Come ye all naked to the rite
In sign that ye are
truly free.
Keep ye my
mysteries in mirth,
Heart joined to heart and lip to
lip.
Five are the points of fellowship
That bring ye
ecstasy on Earth.
No other law but
love I know;
By naught but love may I be known,
And all that liveth is my own:
From me they come, to me they go.
C.2. The Prose Charge (1957)
THE CHARGE, to be
read while the initiate stands, properly prepared before the Circle.
[Magus]: Listen to
the words of the Great mother, who was of old also called among men, Artemis,
Astarte, Dione, Melusine, Aphrodite, Cerridwen, Diana, Arianrhod, Bride, and by
many other names.
[High Priestess]:
"At mine Altars the youth of Lacedaemon in
"For mine is
the ecstasy of the Spirit, and mine is also joy on earth. For my Law is Love unto all beings.
"Keep pure
your highest ideals. Strive ever towards
it. Let naught stop you or turn you
aside.
"For mine is
the secret which opens upon the door of youth; and mine is the cup of the Wine
of Life: and the Cauldron of Cerridwen, which is the Holy Grail of Immortality.
"I am the
Gracious Goddess who gives the gift of Joy unto the heart of
"Upon Earth I
give the knowledge of the Spirit Eternal, and beyond death I give peace and
freedom, and reunion with those who have gone before. Nor do I demand aught in sacrifice, for
behold, I am the Mother of all things, and my love is poured out upon
earth."
[Magus]: Hear ye
the words of the Star Goddess, She in the dust of whose feet are the hosts of
Heaven, whose body encircleth the universe.
[High Priestess]:
"I who am the beauty of the green earth; and the White Moon amongst the
Stars; and the mystery of the Waters; and the desire of the heart of man. I
call unto thy soul: arise and come unto me.
"For I am the
Soul of nature who giveth life to the Universe; `From me all things proceed;
and unto me, all things must return.'
Beloved of the Gods and men, thine inmost divine self shall be enfolded
in the raptures of the infinite.
"Let my
worship be within the heart that rejoiceth, for behold: all acts of love and
pleasure are my rituals; and therefore
let there be Beauty and Strength, Power and Compassion, Honour and Humility,
Mirth and reverence within you.
"And thou who thinkest to seek me, know that thy seeking and yearning shall avail thee not unless thou know the mystery, that if that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee, thou wilt never find it without thee, for behold; I have been with thee from the beginning, and I am that which is attained at the end of desire."
C.3. CAKES AND WINE. (1957)
High Priestess
seated on Altar, God position.
Magus, kneeling,
kisses her feet, then knees, bows with head below her knees, extends arms along
her thighs, and adores.
Magus fills cup and
offers it to High Priestess, who, holding Athame between palms, places point in
cup.
Magus says:
"As the Athame is the male, so the cup is the female, and conjoined they
bring blessedness."
High Priestess lays
Athame aside, and takes Cup and drinks, gives Cup to server, who puts a little
in each glass.
Magus presents
Pentacle with cakes to High Priestess, saying, "Oh Queen most secret,
bless this food unto our bodies, bestowing health, wealth, strength, joy and
peace, and that fulfillment of love that is perpetual happiness".
High Priestess
blesses them with Athame, takes Cake and eats, while the Magus gives her the
Cup again and kisses knees and adores.
All sit as Witches, and invite High Priestess to join them.
C.4. The Sabbat Rituals (1957)
Spring equinox
The symbol of the
wheel should be placed on the altar upright, decked with flowers, flanked with
burning candles. The Cauldron,
containing spirits, is in the east.
Magus in west, High Priestess in
east with Phallic wand or pinecone-tipped wand, or broomstick, or riding pole,
broom upwards.
High Priestess
lights Cauldron, saying,
"We kindle
fire this day!
In the presence of
the Holy Ones:Without malice, without jealousy, without envy.
Without fear of
aught beneath the sun.But the High Gods.
Thee we invoke: O
light of life:Be thou a bright flame before us:
Be thou a guiding
star above us:Be thou a smooth path beneath us;
Kindle thou in our
hearts within,A flame of love for our neighbor,
To our foes, to our
friends, to our kindred all:To all men on this broad Earth.
O merciful son of
CerridwenFrom the lowest thing that liveth
To the name that is
highest of all."
High Priestess draw
pentacle upon Magus with wand, kiss, gives it to him. He does likewise. They lead the dance round the circle, all
couples leaping burning fire. The last couple
as the fire goes out should be well-purified three times, and each should give
Fivefold Kiss to all of opposite sex.
Cakes and wine.
If the people will,
the Cauldron dance can be done again, many times, or other games can be played.
Summer Solstice
Form circle. Invoke,
Purify. Cauldron is placed before
altar filled with water, wreathed with summer flowers. The people, men and women alternately, stand
round circle.
High Priestess
stands in north, before Cauldron, holding raised wand, which should be Phallic
or tipped with a pinecone (anciently the thyrsus) or a riding pole or a
broomstick, invokes the sun. "Great
One of Heaven, Power of the Sun, we invoke thee in thine ancient names,
Michael, Balin, Arthur, Lugh,
High Priestess
draws invoking pentacle on Magus with wand.
Magus comes forward
sunwise and takes wand with kiss, plunges wand into Cauldron and holds it
upright, saying, "The spear to the Cauldron, the lance to the Grail,
spirit to flesh, man to woman, sun to earth." He salutes High Priestess
over Cauldron, then rejoins people, still bearing wand.
High Priestess
takes aspergillum, stands by Cauldron, says, "Dance ye about the Cauldron
of Cerridwen the Goddess, and be ye blessed with the touch of this consecrated
water, even as the sun, the lord of light, arriveth in his strength in the sign
of the waters of life."
The people dance
sunwise about the altar and Cauldron, led by Magus bearing wand. High Priestess sprinkles them lightly as they
pass her.
Ritual of cakes and
wine.
Any other dances,
rites, or games as the Priestess and people wish.
Autumn equinox
The altar should be
decorated with symbols of autumn, pine cones, oak sprigs, acorns, or ears of
corn, and should have fire or burning incense on it as usual. After usual purification, the people stand
round, men and women alternately. Magus
at west of altar in God position.
High Priestess
stands at east of altar, facing him, and reads the incantation.
"Farewell, O
Sun, ever returning light. The hidden god, who ever yet remains. He departs to the land of youth, through the
gates of death, to dwell enthroned, the judge of gods and man. The horned leader of the hosts of air. Yet, even as stand unseen about the circle
the forms of the Mighty Lords of the Outer Spaces,. So dwelleth he, `the lord
within ourselves'. So dwelleth he within
the secret seed, the seed of new reaped grain, the seed of flesh, hidden in the
earth, the marvellous seed of the stars.
`In him is life, and life is the light of men [John 1:4],' that which
was never born and never dies. Therefore
the Wicca weep not, but rejoice."
The High Priestess
goes to the Magus with a kiss. He lays
aside Athame and scourge, and kisses her.
The High Priestess hands him her wand, which should be Phallic, or a
branch tipped with a pinecone, Or a riding pole, or a broomstick (anciently the
thyrsus). They lead the dance, she with
a systrum or rattle, he with wand, the people falling in behind them, dancing
three times round the altar. Then the
candle game is played.
Cakes and wine.
Great Rite if
possible.
Dances and games.
Winter Solstice
Form circle in
usual manner, invoking the Mighty Ones.
The Cauldron of
Cerridwen is placed in the circle at the south wreathed with holly, ivy, and
mistletoe, with fire lighted within it.
There should be no other light except for the candles on the altar and
about the circle.
After all are
purified, the Moon should be drawn down.
Then the High
Priestess stands behind the Cauldron in pentacle position, symbolizing the
rebirth of the sun. The people, man and
woman alternately, stand round the circle.
The Magus stands facing the High Priestess with a bundle of torches, or
candles, and the book of words of the incantation. One of the officers stands beside him with a
lighted candle, so that he may have light to read by.
The people begin to
slowly move round the circle sunwise. As
each passes him the Magus lights his candle or torch from the fire in the
Cauldron, which may be simply a candle, till all have lighted candles or
torches. Then the people dance round
slowly as he reads the incantation. (A
real fire must now be kindled in the Cauldron.)
Queen of the Moon,
Queen of the Sun.Queen of the Heavens, Queen of the Stars.
Queen of the
Waters, Queen of the Earth.Who ordained to us the child of promise:
It is the Great
Mother who gives birth to him,He is the Lord of Life who is born again,
Darkness and tears
are set behind,And the star of guidance comes up early.
Golden sun of hill
and mountainIllumine the land, illumine the world
Illumine the seas,
illumine the rivers,Grief be laid, and joy be raised.
Blessed be the
Great MotherWithout beginning, without ending,
To everlasting, to
eternity,I O. Evohe, Blessed be."
The dance commences slowly, in rhythm with the chant, all taking up the call "I. O. Blessed be." The Priestess joins dance and leads them with a quicker rhythm. The cauldron with burning fire is pushed so that the dancers leap or step over it, in couples. Whichever couple is passing it as it goes out, should be well-purified, three times each, and may pay any amusing forfeit as the High Priestess may ordain. Sometimes the cauldron is relighted several times for this purpose.
C.5 The Eightfold Path or Ways. (1957)
1. Meditation or
concentration, actually by the firm knowledge that you can and will succeed --
forming a clear picture in your mind or your requirements.
2. Trance states,
Clairvoyance, Projection of the Astral etc.
3. Drugs, Wine,
Incense.
4. Dance,
Performing Rites with a purpose.
5. Chants, Spells
etc.
6. Blood control
(Cords etc), Breath control.
7. $courge
8. The Great Rite
N.B.
The great thing is
to combine as many of these paths into the one operation. No 1 must be in all -- for if you have no
clear picture of what you wish and no certainty you will not succeed -- 'tis
useless. No 2 can be combined with this
easily. Nos 3, 4, and 5 are all good
preliminaries- also 6 and 7; but No 3 is dangerous and therefore if possible
should be avoided, except for incense, which is harmless if too much is not
used.
The best combination is Nos. 1, 4, 5 and 7, for small purposes, with no 8 if great force is necessary. Also a combination of 1, 6 and 7 is good if more can not be done; this if properly performed leads to No. 2.
C.6. The First-Degree Initiation
(1957)
Draw Circle with
Magic Sword or Athame.
Sprinkle with
Exorcised Water.
Go round Circle
with Magic Sword or Athame, Saying, "I conjure thee,
Go round, saying at
East, South, West, and North, "I summon, stir, and call thee up, ye Mighty
Ones of the East (South, West, North), to witness the rites and to guard the
circle."
Magus draws down
Moon on High Priestess.
Read Charge, then
say, "O thou who standest on the threshold between the pleasant world of
men and the dread domains of the lords of the outer spaces, hast thou the
courage to make the assay?" (Place point of the Magic Sword or Athame to
Postulant's heart.) "For I say verily it were better to rush on my blade
and perish than to make the attempt with fear in thy heart."
Postulant: "I
have two perfect words: perfect love, and perfect trust."
Say, "All who
have are doubly welcome."
Entering position:
"I give you a third to pass you through this dread door." Gives it [kiss].
Lead Postulant
sunwise to south of altar, and say, "O thou who hast declared intent to
become one of us, hear then that which thou must know to do. Single is the race of men and of Gods; from a
single source we both draw breath, but a difference of power in everything
keeps us apart, for we are as nothing, but the Gods stay forever. Yet we can, in greatness of minds, be like
the Gods, though we know not to what goal by day or in the night Fate has
written that we shall run. Beyond all
seas and Earth's last boundaries, beyond the Spring of night and the Heavens'
vast expanse, there lies a majesty which is the domain of the Gods. Thou who would pass through the Gates of
Night and Day to that sweet place, which is between the worlds of men and the
domains of the Lords of the outer spaces, know that unless there is truth in
thy heart, thy every effort is doomed to failure. HEAR THEN THE LAW: that thou lovest all
things in nature; that thou shalt suffer no person to be harmed by thy hands or
in thy mind; that thou walkest humbly in the ways of men and the ways of the
Gods. Also it is the law that
contentment thou shalt learn, through suffering, and from long years and from
nobility of mind and of purpose, FOR THE WISE NEVER GROW OLD. Their minds are nourished by living in the
daylight of the Gods, and if among the vulgar some discoveries should arise
concerning some maxims of thy belief in the Gods, so do thou, for the most part,
keep silent. For there is a great risk
that thou mayest straightway vomit up that which thou hast not digested, and
when someone shall say to thee, "Thou knowest naught," and it bites
thee not, then knowest thou that thou hast begun the work. And as sheep do not
bring their food to the shepherd to show how much they have eaten, but
digesting inwardly their provender, bear outwardly wool and milk, even so, do
not thou display the maxims to the vulgar, but rather the works that flow when
they are digested. Now there is the
ordeal." [This speech was added after about 1960.]
Tie cord around
Postulant's right ankle, leaving ends free; say, "Feet neither bound nor
free."
Leading postulant,
proclaim at four quarters, "Take heed, ye Lords of the Watchtowers of the
East (South, West, North), that (name) is properly prepared to be made a
priestess and a witch."
Three times round
the Circle with Dance step and chant.
Place Postulant in
East; say, "Kneel."
Postulant kneels.
Strike eleven
knells on bell; say, "Rise. In other religions the postulant kneels while
the priest towers above him, but in the Art Magical we are taught to be humble,
and so we kneel to welcome them, and we say:
"Blessed be
the feet that have brought you in these ways [kiss];
"Blessed be
the knees that shall kneel at the sacred altar [kiss];
"Blessed be
thy womb (or organ of generation), without which we would not be [kiss];
"Blessed be
thy breasts, erected in beauty and in strength [kiss];
"Blessed be
thy lips, which shall utter the sacred names [kiss].
"Before ye are
sworn, art willing to pass the ordeal and be purified?"
Postulant "I
am."
Take measure:
height (tie knot); around head (tie knot); around heart (tie knot); around hips
(tie knot). Prick postulant's thumb;
catch blood on measure. Place measure on altar.
Have postulant kneel, tie postulant's feet together, and secure cable
tow to altar. Three strokes on
bell. Say, "Art ready to swear that
thou wilt always be true to the Art?"
Postulant "I
am."
Strike seven times
on bell and say, "Thou must first be purified." Scourge 3, 7, 9, 21.
Say, "Ye have
bravely passed the test. Art always
ready to help, protect, and defend thy brothers and sisters of the Art?"
Postulant "I
am."
"Then say
after me: I, (name), in the presence of
the mighty ones of the outer spaces, do of my own free will most solemnly swear
that I will ever keep secret and never reveal the secrets of the Art, except it
be to a proper person, properly prepared, within such a circle as I am in now,
and that I will never deny the Secrets to such a person if they be vouched for
by a brother or Sister of the Art. All
this I swear by my hopes of a future life, and may my weapons turn against me
if I break this my solemn oath."
Loosen cords from
ankles and from altar, and remove blindfold; assist to rise.
"I hereby sign
thee with the triple sign [the point-down triangle formed by touching the
genitals, the right breast, the left breast, and the genitals again.]
I consecrate thee with oil.
I consecrate thee with wine.
I consecrate thee with my lips, Priest
(Priestess) and Witch."
Remove Cords
[kiss].
"I now present
to you the working tools. First the
magic sword. With this, as with the
athame, thou canst form all magic circles, dominate, subdue, and punish all
rebellious spirits and demons, and even persuade angels and good spirits. With this in your hand, you are ruler of the
circle." [kiss]
"Next I
present to you the athame. This is the
true witches' weapon, and has all the powers of the magic sword." [kiss]
"Next I
present the white-handled knife. Its use
is to form all instruments used in the Art.
It can only be used in a magic circle." [kiss]
"Next I
present the wand. Its use is to call up
and control certain angels and genie to whom it would not be meet to use the
sword or athame." [kiss]
"Next I
present the pentacle. This is for the
purpose of calling up the appropriate spirits." [kiss]
"Next I
present the censer of incense. This is used to encourage and welcome good
spirits, and to banish evil spirits." [kiss]
"Next I
present the scourge. This is a sign of
power and domination. It is also used to
cause purification and enlightenment, for it is written, `To learn you must
suffer and be purified.' [kiss] Art willing to suffer to learn?"
Postulant: "I
am."
"Next and
lastly I present the cords. They are of
use to bind the sigils of the art, also the material basis. Also they are necessary in the oath."
[kiss]
"I now salute
you in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos, Newly made Priestess and Witch."
Lead round and
proclaim to four quarters, "Hear, ye Mighty Ones, (name) has been
consecrated a priestess of the Goddess."
Now present new
Witch to coven members. All should kiss
and hug new Witch as welcome into membership.
To close circle proclaim to four quarters, "Ye Mighty Ones of the East (South, West, North), I thank you for attending and, ere ye depart for your lovely realms, I say hail and farewell."
C.7. The Second-Degree Initiation
(1957)
Form Circle in
usual manner, invoking the Mighty Ones at the Four Quarters. The Initiate should be properly prepared and
bound with the Cords. All are purified,
including Initiate.
Circle once,
proclaiming at the Four Quarters: "Hear Ye Mighty Ones, . . . (N), a duly
consecrated Priestess and Witch is now properly prepared to be made a High
Priest and Magus (High Priestess and Witch Queen)."
Circle three times,
with dance step and chant. Initiate then
kneels before the Altar and is secured with the Cords.
Priestess or Magus:
"To attain to this sublime Degree it is necessary to suffer and be
purified. Art willing to suffer to learn?"
Initiate: "I
am."
Priestess or Magus:
"I purify thee to take this great oath rightly". Strike three strokes upon the bell. Scourge
3, 7, 9, 21.
"I now give thee a new name: . . ."
[kiss]
"Repeat thy new name after me, saying,
`I, . . ., swear, upon my mother's womb and by mine honour among men and my
brothers and sisters of the Art, that I will never reveal to any at all any of
the secrets of the Art, except it be to a worthy person, properly prepared, in
the center of a Magic Circle such as I am now in. This I swear by my hopes of salvation, my
past lives and my hopes of future ones to come and I devote myself and my
measure to utter destruction if I break this my solemn Oath.'"
Kneel. Place Left Hand under Initiate's Knee and
Right Hand on Head, thus forming Magic Link, saying: "I will all my power
into thee." WILL. Loose, assist to rise.
Consecrate: "I
consecrate thee with oil [on genitals, right breast, left hip, right hip, left
breast, genitals), I consecrate thee with wine, I consecrate thee with my lips,
High Priest and Magus (High Priestess and Witch Queen)." Loose remaining cords. [kiss]
"You will now
use the working tools in turn,
"First the
Magic Sword (
"Second the
Athame. (
"Third the
White-Handled Knife (use) [kiss]
"Fourth the
Wand. (Wave to 4 Quarters) [kiss]
"Fifth the
Pentacle. (Show to 4 Quarters)
[kiss]
"Sixth the
Censer. (Circle, cense) [kiss]
"Seventh the
Cords. (Use) [kiss]
"Eighth the
scourge: for learn, in witchcraft you must ever give as you receive, but ever
triple. So where I gave thee 3, return
9; where I gave 7, return 21; where I gave 9, return 27; where I gave 21,
return 63." (Use, 9, 21, 27, 63; i.e.,
The Priestess or
Magus is then loosed from the cords and says: "Having learned thus far,
you must know why the Wicca are called the Hidden Children of the
Goddess".
Then the Legend of
the Goddess is either read or acted out.
If it is possible to act it out, the new Initiate may take one of the
parts. One of the Coven should act as
Narrator, and another as Guardian of the Portal. The Priestess, or another woman, may act the
part of the Goddess, and the Magus, or another man, may act the part of the
God. The Priestess -- or whoever is
taking the part of the Goddess -- takes off her necklace and lays it on the
Altar. Then she goes outside the circle
and is dressed in a veil and jewellery.
The Magus -- or whoever is taking the part of the God -- is invested
with a horned crown and girds on a sword, which he draws and stands in the God
position with sword and scourge, by the altar.
Narrator: "In
ancient times our Lord, the Horned One, was, as he still is, the Consoler, the
Comforter; but men knew him as the Dread Lord of Shadows -- lonely, stern, and
hard. Now our Lady the Goddess had never
loved, but she would solve all mysteries, even the mystery of Death -- and so
she journeyed to the Nether Lands. The Guardians of the Portals challenged
her:"
(The Priestess --
or whoever is taking the part of the Goddess
-- advances to the side of the
Circle. Whoever is taking the part of the Guardian of the Portal challenges her
with the Sword or Athame.)
Narrator:
"`Strip off thy garments, lay aside thy jewels, for naught may ye bring
with ye into this our land'. So she laid
down her garments and her jewels and was bound, as are all who enter the realms
of Death the Mighty One".
(The Priestess
takes off the veil and the jewellery and lays them down outside the
Circle. The Guardian of the Portal binds
her with the Cords and brings her inside the Circle.)
Narrator:
"Such was her beauty that Death himself knelt and laid his sword and crown
at her feet and kissed her feet."
(The Magus -- or
whoever is playing the part of the God -- comes forward and lays the Horned
Crown and the Sword at the Priestess's feet and kisses her feet)
Narrator:
"Saying, `Blessed be thy feet that have brought thee in these ways. Abide with me, but let me place my cold hand
on thy heart'. And she replied, `I love thee not. Why dost thou cause all
things that I love and take delight in to fade and die?' `Lady,' replied Death,
`'Tis Age and Fate, against which I am helpless. Age causes all things to wither; but when men
die at the end of time, I give them rest and peace and strength, so that they
may return. But you, you are lovely. Return not; abide with me.' But she answered,
`I love thee not.' Then said Death, `An
you receive not my hand on your heart, you must receive Death's scourge.'"
(The Magus rises
and takes up the Scourge from the Altar.)
Narrator: "`It is fate, better so,' she said, and
she knelt."
(The Priestess
kneels before the altar, and the Magus uses the scourge 3, 7, 9, 21.)
Narrator: "And Death scourged her tenderly, and
she cried, `I feel the pangs of love'. And Death raised her, and said, `Blessed
be,' and he gave her the Fivefold Kiss, saying, `Thus only may you attain to
joy and knowledge'."
(The Magus raises
the Priestess, gives her the Fivefold Kiss and unties the cords)
Narrator: "And
he taught her all the Mysteries and gave her the necklace, which is the Circle
of Rebirth."
(The Magus takes
the Priestess's necklace from the Altar and replaces it about her neck. The Priestess takes up the Sword and the
Horned Crown from the floor, where the Magus placed them, and gives them back
to him. Then he stands as before by the
Altar, in the position of the God, and she stands by his side in the pentacle
position, as Goddess)
Narrator: "And
she taught him the mystery of the sacred cup, which is the cauldron of
rebirth. They loved and were one; and he
taught her all the Magics. For there be
three great mysteries in the life of man -- love, death, and resurrection in a
new body -- and magic controls them all.
To fulfill love you must return at the same time and place as the loved
one, and you must meet and know and remember and love them again. But to be reborn you must die and be ready
for a new body; to die you must be born; without love you may not be born --
and these be all the magics. And our
Goddess ever inclineth to love and mirth and happiness, and guardeth and
cheriseth Her hidden children in life; and in death she teacheth the way to have
communion, and even in this world She teacheth them the Mystery of the Magic
Circle, which is placed between the worlds."
The Priestess or Magus then replaces the Sword, Crown, Scourge, etc., upon the Altar, and taking the new Initiate by the hand and holding the Athame in the other, passes once round the Circle, proclaiming at the Four Quarters, "Hear, Ye Mighty Ones, . . . hath been duly consecrated High Priest and Magus (or High Priestess and Witch Queen)."
C.8. The Third-Degree Initiation
(1957)
Magus gives
Fivefold Kiss.
Magus: "Ere we
proceed with this sublime degree, I must beg purification at thy hands."
High Priestess
binds Magus and ties him down to the altar.
She circumambulates three times, and scourges Magus with three, seven,
nine, and 21 strokes. She then unbinds
him and helps him to his feet.
Magus now binds the
High Priestess and ties her down to the altar. He circumambulates, proclaiming
to the four quarters, "Hear, ye mighty Ones, the twice consecrate and Holy
(name), High Priestess and Witch Queen, is properly prepared and will now
proceed to erect the Sacred Altar."
Magus scourges High
Priestess with three, seven, nine, and 21 strokes.
Magus kisses her
feet. "Ere I dare proceed with this sublime degree, I must again beg
purification at thy hands."
She binds and
scourges him.
Note: if High
Priestess has not performed this rite before, he says, "Here I reveal to
you a great mystery." [Kneel and
place couch in position so as to face north.]
Assist me to build
As the Mighty One
willed,
An Altar of praise,
From beginning of days,
Thus doth it lie,
Twixt the points of the
sky,
For thus it was placed When the Goddess
embraced The Horned One, Her
Lord, Who
taught her the word,
[Priestess lies
down in such a way that her vagina is approximately at the center of the
circle]
Which quickened the
womb,
And conquered the Tomb.
Be thus as of yore,
The Shrine we adore, [kiss]
The feast without fail,
The life-giving Grail, [kiss]
Before it uprear
The Miraculous Spear,
And invoke in this sign
The Goddess divine. [kiss]
Invoke: "Thou who at moon of night doth
reign,
Queen of the
starry realm above,
`Not unto Thee may we
attain
Unless Thine
Image be of Love.' [kiss]
By moon-rays silver
shaft of power,
By green leaf breaking from the bud,
By seed that springeth
into flower,
By life that
courseth in the blood. [kiss]
By rushing wind and
leaping flame,
By flowing
water and green earth,
Pour us the wine of our
desire
From out Thy
Cauldron of Rebirth. [kiss]
Here may we see in
vision clear
The Secret
Strange unveiled at length,
The wondrous
Twin-Pillars rear
Erect in
Beauty and in Strength. [kiss
breasts]
Altar of Mysteries manifold, The Sacred Circle's central point, Thus do I sign thee as of old, With kisses of my lips anoint.
(Eightfold Kiss: 3
points, Lips, 2 Breasts and back to lips, & 5 points*, with oil, wine,
& kisses)
Open for me the
The pathway
of intelligence,
Between the Gates of
Night and Day,
Beyond the
bounds of time and sense.
Behold the Mystery
aright,
The Five
True Points of Fellowship,
Here where the Lance and
Grail unite,
And feet and
knees and breast and lips."
Magus and High
Priestess: "Encourage our hearts, Let thy Light crystallize itself in our
blood, fulfilling us of Resurrection, for there is no part of us that is not of
the Gods."
(Exchange Names.)
C.9. The Witches' Chant or Rune
(1957)
Darksome night and
Shining Moon,
East, then South, then West, then
North,
Harken to the
Witches Rune:
Here come I to call thee forth.
Earth and Water,
Air and Fire,
Wand and Pentacle and Sword,
Work ye unto my
desire,
Harken ye unto my word.
Cords and Censer,
Scourge and knife,
Powers of the Witches Blade,
Waken all ye into life,
Come ye as the Charm is made:
Queen of Heaven,
Queen of Hell,
Horned Hunter of the Night,
Lend your power
unto the Spell,
Work my will by Magic Rite.
If chant is used to
reinforce a work already begun, end with this:
By all the power of
land and seaBy all the might of moon and sun,
What is my will- "So mote it be,"What I do say- "It shall be done."
C.10. Consecrating Tools (1957)
(Note: if possible
lay any new weapon touching an already consecrated one, Sword to sword, Athame
to Athame, etc.)
[2] Place tool on
pentacle on altar. Magus sprinkles it
with salt and water. Witch passes it
through smoke of incense, replaces it on pentacle. Touching with already consecrated weapon,
they say the First Conjuration.
[2a] For sword or athame, say "I conjure
thee, O Sword (or Athame) of Steel, that thou servest me for a strength and a
defence in all magical operations, against all mine enemies, visible and
invisible, in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos. I conjure thee anew by the Holy Names Aradia
and Cernunnos, that thou servest me for a protection in all adversities, so aid
me."
[2b] For any other tool, say, "Aradia and
Cernunnos, deign to bless and to consecrate this [tool], that it may obtain
necessary virtue through thee for all acts of love and Beauty."
[3] Again they
sprinkle and cense, and say the Second Conjuration:
[3a] For sword or athame, say, "I conjure
thee, O Sword [Athame] of Steel, by the Great Gods and the Gentle Goddesses, by
the virtue of the Heavens, of the Stars, of the Spirits who preside over them,
that thou mayest receive such virtues that I may obtain the end that I desire
in all things wherein I shall use thee, by the power of Aradia and
Cernunnos."
[3b] For any other
tool, say, "Aradia and Cernunnos, bless this instrument prepared in thine
honour." (For the scourge or cords,
add, "That it may only serve for a good use and end, and to thy
Glory.")
[4] All instruments
when consecrated should be presented to their User by giving the [point-down
triangle] sign salute (if they are working in the 1st degree, or the sign of
the higher degree if they are working that.)
[5] Then the one
who is not the owner should give the Fivefold Kiss to the owner. For the final kiss, the tool should be placed
between the breasts, and the two workers should embrace for as long as they
feel like, it being held in place by their bodies. The new owner should use it immediately,
i.e., cast (trace) Circle with Sword or Athame, wave wand to 4 quarters, cut
something with white-handled knife, etc.
Cords and scourge should be used at once.
The tool should be kept in as close connection as possible to the naked body for at least a month, i.e., kept under pillow, etc. When not in use, all tools and weapons should be put away in a secret place; and it is good that this should be near your sleeping place, and that you handle them each night before retiring. Do not allow anyone to touch or handle any of your tools until they are thoroughly impregnated with your aura; say, six months or as near as possible. But a couple working together may own the same tools, which will be impregnated with the aura of both.
D.1 The Old Laws (1961)
[A] The Law was
made and Aredan of old. The law was made for the Wicca, to advise and help in
their troubles. The Wicca should give due worship to the Gods and obey their
will, which they Aredan, for it was made for the good of the Wicca, As the [5]
Wicca's worship is good for the Gods, For the Gods love the Wicca. As a man
loveth a woman, by mastering her, so the Wicca should love the Gods, by being
mastered by them.
And it is necessary
that the Circle, which is the
With love and
worship in their hearts they shall raise power from their bodies to give power
to the Gods, as has been toughed us of old, [15] For in this way only may man
have communion with the Gods, for the Gods cannot help man without the help of
men.
[B] And the High
Priestess shall rule her Coven as representative of the Goddess, and the High
Priest shall support her as the representative of the God, And the High
Priestess shall choose whom she [20] will, if he have sufficient rank, to be
her High Priest),
For the God
himself, kissed her feet in the fivefold salute, laying his power at the feet
of the Goddess, because of her youth and beauty, her sweetness and kindness,
her wisdom and Justice, her humility and generosity. So he resigned his lordship to her.
But the Priestess
should [25] ever mind that all power comes from him. lt is only lent when it is
used wisely and justly. And the greatest virtue of a High Priestess is that she
recognizes that youth is necessary to the representative of the Goddess, so
that she will retire gracefully in favour of a younger woman, Should the Coven
so decide in Council, For the true [30]
High Priestess realizes that gracefully surrendering pride of place is one of
the greatest of virtues, and that thereby she will return to that pride of
place in another life, with greater power and beauty.
[C] In the days
when Witchdom extended far, we were free and worshipped in Alther Greatest
Temples, but in these unhappy times [35]
we must hold our sacred mysteries in secret. So it be Aredan, that none but the
Wicca may see our mysteries, for our enemies are many, And torture looseth the
tongues of many. It be aredan that each Coven shall not know where the next
Coven bide, or who its members are, save the Priest and Priestess, [40] That
there shall be no communication between them, save by the Messenger of the
Gods, or the Summoner. Only if it be safe, may the Covens meet, in some safe
place, for the great festivals.
And while there,
none shall say whence they come, or give their true names, to the end that, if
any are tortured, in their agony, they can [45] not tell if they know not. So it be Aredan that no one may tell any not
of the Craft who be of the Wicca, nor give any names, or where they bide, or in
any way tell anything which can betray any to our foes, nor may they tell where
the Covenstead be, or where is the Covendom, [50] or where be the meetings or
that there have been meetings.
And if any break
these laws, even under torture, The Curse of the Goddess shall be upon them, so
they never reborn on earth, And may they remain where they belong, in the Hell
of the Christians.
[D] Let each High
Priestess govern her Coven with Justice and [55] love, with the help of the
advice of the elders, always heeding the advice of the Messenger of the Gods,
if he cometh. She will heed all complaints of brothers, and strive to settle
all differences among them, but it must be recognized that there be people who
will ever strive to force others to do as they will. [60] They are not
necessarily evil, and they often do have good ideas, and such ideas should be
talked over in council. And if they will not agree with their brothers, or if
they say, "I will not work under this High Priestess," it hath always
been the old law to be convenient for the brethren, and to void disputes, any
of the Third [65] may claim to found a new Coven because they live over a
league from the Covenstead, or are about to do so. Anyone living within the
Covendom wishing to form a new Coven, to avoid strife, shall tell the Elders of
his intention and on the instant void his dwelling and remove to the new
Covendom.
Members of the old
Coven may join the New one when it be formed, but if they do, must utterly void
the old Coven. The Elders of the New and the Old Covens should meet in peace
and brotherly love, to decide the new boundaries. Those of the Craft who dwell
outside both Covendoms may join either indifferent, but not both, though all
may, if the Elders [75] agree, meet for the Great Festivals, if it be truly in
peace and brotherly love. But splitting the coven oft means strife, so for this
reason these laws were made of old, And
may the curse of the Goddess be on any who disregard them. So be it aredan.
[E] If you would
Keep a book let it be in your own hand of write. [80] Let brothers and sisters
copy what they will, but never let the book out of your hands, and never keep
the writings of another, for if it be found in their hand of write, they well
may be taken and Engined. Each should guard his own writings and destroy it
whenever danger threatens. Learn as much as you may by heart, and when danger
is [85] past, rewrite your book an it be safe. For this reason, if any die,
destroy their book if they have not been able to, for an it be found, 'tis
clear proof against them, And our oppressors well know, "Ye may not be a
witch alone" So all their kin and friends be in danger of torture. So ever destroy anything not necessary.
[90] If your book
be found on you. 'tis clear proof against you alone. You may be engined. Keep all thoughts of the Craft from your
mind. Say you had bad dreams; a devil
caused you to write it without your knowledge.
Think to yourself, "I know nothing.
I remember nothing. I have
forgotten everything." Drive this
[95] into your mind. If the torture be
too great to bear, say, "I will confess.
I cannot bear this torture. What
do you want me to say? Tell me and I
will say it." If they try to make
you speak of the brotherhood, Do NOT, but if they try to make you speak of
[100] impossibilities, such as flying through the air, consorting with the
Christian Devil, or sacrificing children, or eating men's flesh, to obtain
relief from torture, say, "I had an evil dream. I was not myself. I was crazed."
Not all Magistrates
are bad. If there [105] be an excuse they may show mercy. If you have confessed aught, deny it
afterwards; say you babbled under torture, you knew not what you did or
said. If you are condemned, fear
not. The Brotherhood is powerful. They may help you to escape, if you stand
steadfast, but if you betray aught, there is no hope for you, in this [110]
life, or in that which is to come. Be
sure, if steadfast you go to the pyre, Dwale will reach you. You will feel naught. You go but to Death and what lies beyond, the
ecstasy of the Goddess.
[F] 'Tis probable
that before you are engined, Dwale will reach you. [115] Always remember that
Christians fear much that any die under torture. At the first sign of swoon, they cause it to
be stopped, and blame the tormenters.
For that reason, the tormenters themselves are apt to feign to torment,
but do not, so it is best not to die at first. If Dwale reaches you, 'tis a
sign that you have a friend somewhere. [120] You may be helped to escape, so
despair not. If the worst comes, and you go to the pyre, wait till the flames
and smoke spring up, bend your head over, and breath in with long breaths. You
choke and die swiftly, and wake in the arms of the Goddess.
[G] To void
discovery, let the working tools [125] be as ordinary things that any may have
in their houses. Let the Pentacles be of
wax, so they may be broken at once. Have no sword unless your rank allows you
one. Have no names or signs on
anything. Write the names and signs on
them in ink before consecrating them and wash it off immediately after. Do not Bigrave them, [130] lest they cause
discovery. Let the colour of the hilts
tell which is which.
[H] Ever remember,
ye are the Hidden Children of the Gods.
So never do anything to disgrace them. Never boast, Never threaten,
Never say you would wish ill to anyone.
If you or any not in the Circle speak of the Craft, [135] say,
"Speak not to me of such. It frightens me.
'Tis evil luck to speak of it."
For this reason:
the Christians have spies everywhere. These speak as if they were well
affected, as if they would come to Meetings, saying, "My mother used to go
to worship the Old Ones. I would that I could go myself."* To these ever deny all knowledge.
[140] But to others
ever say, "'Tis foolish men talk of witches flying through the air; to do
so they must be light as thistledown," and "Men say that witches all
be bleared-eyed old crones, so what pleasure can there be in witch meetings
such as folk talk on?" Say,
"Many wise men now say there be no such creatures." Ever [145] make
it a jest, and in some future time, perhaps the persecution will die, and we
may worship safely again. Let us all
pray for that happy day.
[I] May the
blessings of the Goddess and the God be on all who keep these laws which are
Aredan.
[J] If the Craft
hath any Appanage, let all brothers guard it, and help to keep it clear and
good for the Craft, and let all justly guard all monies of the Craft.
But if some
brothers truly wrought it, 'tis right that they have their pay, an it be just,
an this be not taking [5] money for the use of the Art, but for good and honest
work. And even the Christians say,
"A labourer is worthy of his hire."
But if any brothers work willingly for the good of the craft without
pay, 'tis but to their greater honour.
So it be Aredan.
[K] If there be any
disputes or quarrels among the brethren, the [10] High Priestess shall straight
convene the Elders and enquire into the matter, and they shall hear both sides,
first alone, then together, and they shall decide justly, not favouring the one
side or the other, ever recognizing that there be people who can never agree to
work under others, but at the same time there be some people who [15] cannot
rule justly. To those who ever must be
chief, there is one answer, "Void the Coven and seek another, or make a
Coven of your own, taking with you those who will to go." To those who cannot rule justly, the answer
be, "Those who cannot bear your rule will leave you," for none may
come to meetings with those with whom they are at [20] variance; so, an either cannot agree, get hence, for
the Craft must ever survive. So it be Aredan.
[L] In the olden
days when we had power, we could use our Arts against any who ill-treated any
of the Brotherhood, but in these evil times, we may not do so, for our enemies
have devised a burning [25] pit of everlasting fire, into which they say their
God casteth all the people who worship him, except it be the very few who are
released by their priests' spells and Masses, and this be chiefly by giving
money and rich gifts to receive his favour, for their Alther Greatest God
[Greatest God of all] is ever in need of Money. [30] But as our Gods need our
aid to make fertility for men and crops, So the God of the Christians is ever
in need of man's help to search out and destroy us.
Their priests tell
them that any who get our help or our cures are damned to the Hell forever, so
men be mad for the terror of it. But they make men [35] believe that they may
scape this hell if they give victims to the tormenters. So for this reason all be forever spying,
thinking, "An I can but catch one of the Wicca I will scape this fiery
pit." But we have our hidels, and men searching long and not finding say,
"there be none, or if they be, they be in a far country."
[40] But when one
of our oppressors die, or even be sick, ever is the cry, "This be Witches
Malice," and the hunt is up again.
And though they slay ten of their people to one of ours, still they care
not; they have many thousands, while we are few indeed. So it is Aredan that none shall use the Art
in any way to do ill [45] to any, howevermuch they have injured us. And for long we have obeyed this law,
"Harm none" and nowtimes many believe we exist not. So it be Aredan that this law shall still
continue to help us in our plight. No
one, however great an injury or injustice they receive, may use the Art in any
to do ill or harm any. [50] But they
may, after great consultations with all, use the Art to prevent or restrain
Christians from harming us and others, but only to let or constrain them and
never to punish, to this end. Men say,
"Such an one is a mighty searcher out and persecutor of Old Women whom he
deemeth to be Witches, [55] and none
hath done him Skith [harm], so this be proof they cannot, or more truly, that
there be none," For all know full well that so many folk have died because
someone had a grudge against them, or were persecuted because they had money or
goods to seize, or because they had none to bribe the searchers. And many have died [60] because they were
scolding old women, so much so that men now say that only old women are
witches, and this be to our advantage, and turns suspicion away from us.
In
but any misuse of
the power might raise the Persecution again; so never break this law, [65]
however much you are tempted, and never consent to its being broken. If you know it is being broken in the least,
you must work strongly against it, and any High Priestess or High Priest who
consents to it must be immediately deposed, for 'tis the blood of the Brethren
they endanger. Do good, an it be safe,
and only if [70] it be safe, for any talk may endanger us.
[M] And strictly
keep to the Old Law, never accept money for the use of the art. It is Christian priests and sorcerers who
accept money for the use of their Arts, and they sell Dwale and evil love
spells and pardons to let men scape from their sins. [75] Be not as these. Be
not as these. If you accept not money, you will be free of temptation to use
the Art for evil causes.
[N] You may use the
Art for your own advantage, or for the advantage of the Craft, only if you be
sure you harm none. But ever let the
Coven debate the matter at length. Only
if all are satisfied that none may be harmed [80] may the Art be used. If it is not possible to achieve your ends
one way without harming any, perchance the aim may be achieved by acting in a
different way, so as to harm none. May
the Curse of the Goddess be on any who breach this law. So it be aredan.
[O] 'Tis adjudged
lawful an anyone need a house or land, an none will [85] sell, to incline the
owner's mind to be willing to sell, provided it harmeth him not in any way, and
that the full worth is paid, without haggling.
Never bargain or cheapen anything which you buy by the Art. So it be
Aredan.
[P] It is the Old
Law and the most important of all Laws [90] that no one may do or say anything
which will endanger any of the Craft, or bring them in contact with the law of
the land, or the Law of the Church or any of our persecutors. In any disputes between the brethren, no one
may invoke any laws but those of the Craft, or any Tribunal but that of the
Priestess and the Priest and the [95] Elders. And may the Curse of the Goddess
be on any who so do. So it be Aredan.
[Q] It is not
forbidden to say as Christians do, "There be Witchcraft in the Land,"
because our oppressors of old made it Heresy not to believe in Witchcraft, and
so a crime to deny it, which thereby put [100] you under suspicion. But ever say "I know not of it here,
perchance they may be, but afar off. I know not where." But ever speak so you cause others to doubt
they be as they are. Always speak of
them as old crones, consorting with the Devil and riding through the air. But
ever say, "But how may men ride through the air an they be not [105] as
light as thistledown?" But the curse of the Goddess be on any who cast any
suspicion on any of the Brotherhood, or speaks of any real meeting place, or
where any bide. So it be Aredan.
[R] Let the Craft
keep books with the names of all Herbs which are good for man, and all cures,
that all may learn. But keep [110]
another book with all the Banes [poisons] and Apies. and let only the elders
and trustworthy people have this knowledge. So it be Aredan.
[S] And may the
Blessings of the Gods be on all who keep these Laws and the Curses of both God
and Goddess be on all who break them So it be Aredan.
[The following two
sections were added after 1960.]
[T] Remember the
Art is the secret of the Gods and may only be used in earnest and never for
show or vainglory. Magicians and
Christians may taunt us, saying, "You have no power. Do magic before our eyes. Then only will we believe," seeking to
cause us to betray our Art before them.
Heed them not, for the Art is holy, and may only be used in need. And the curse of the Gods be on any who break
this law.
[U] It ever be the way with women, and with men also, that they ever seek new love, nor should we reprove them for this, but it may be found to disadvantage the Craft, as so many a time it has happened that a High Priest or High Priestess, impelled by love, hath departed with their love; that is, they have left the coven. Now, if a High Priestess wishes to resign, she may do so in full Coven, and this resignation is valid. But if they should run off without resigning, who may know if they may not return within a few months? So the law is, if a High Priestess leaves her coven, but returns within the space of a year and a day, then she shall be taken back, and all shall be as before. Meanwhile, if she has a deputy, that deputy shall act as High Priestess for as long as the High Priestess is away. If she returns not at the end of a year and a day, then shall the coven elect a new High Priestess. Unless there be a good reason to the contrary. The person who has done the work should reap the benefit of the reward, Maiden and deputy of the High Priestess.
D.2. The Verse Charge (1961)
I the Mother,
darksome and divine,
Say to thee, Oh
children mine
(All ye assembled
at mine Shrine),Mine the scourge and mine the kissThe five-point star of love
and bliss
Here I charge ye in
this sign. (Assume Goddess
position.)
All ye assembled
here tonight
Bow before my
spirit brightAphrodite, Arianrhod,Lover of the Horned God,
Mighty Queen of
Witchery and night
Astarte, Hecate,
Ashtaroth, Dione,
(Morrigan, Etain,
Nisene),
Diana, Brigid,
Melusine,Am I named of old by men,Artemis and Cerridwen,
Hell's dark
mistress, Heaven's Queen.
(Whene'er trouble
comes anoon)
All who would learn
of me a Rune
Or would ask of me a
boon,Meet ye in some secret gladeDance my round in greenwood shade,
by the light of the
full moon.
(In a place wild
and lone)
With the comrades
alone
Dance about my
altar stone.Work my holy Magistry,Ye who are fain of sorcery,
I bring ye secrets
yet unknown.
(Whate'er troubles
come to thee),
No more shall ye
know slavery
Who give due
worship unto me,Who tread my round on Sabbat-night.Come ye all naked to the
rite,
In token ye be
truly free.
I teach the mystery
of rebirth,
Keep ye my
mysteries in mirthHeart joined to heart, and lip to lip,Five are the points of
fellowship
That bring ye
ecstasy on Earth.
I ask no offerings,
do but bow,
No other law but
love I know,By naught but love I may be known,All that liveth is mine own
From me they come, to me they go.
D.3. Casting and Charging (1961)
[1] Forming Circle. Light candles.
2. Sprinkle with
consecrated water.
3. Cense.
4. Say, "I
conjure thee, O Circle of Power, that thou be a Boundary and a Protection and a
meeting place between the world of men and the realms of the Mighty Ones, A
Guardian and a Protection that shall preserve and contain the Power which we
shall raise within thee, Wherefore do I Bless and Consecrate thee."
5. Say "I
summon, Stir, and Call Thee up, Ye Mighty Ones of the (East, South, West,
North) To witness the Rites and to guard the Circle."
Say, "Mighty
Ones of the (East, South, West, North), I thank you for attending, and ere you
depart for your lovely realms, I say Hail and Farewell."
[3] Consecration of Water and Salt.
Touch water with
Athame, saying, "I exorcise thee, O Creature of Water, that thou cast out
from thee all the impurities and uncleannesses of the spirits of the World of
Phantasm, In the names of Aradia and Cernunnos."
Touching Salt with
Athame, say, "Blessings be upon this creature of Salt. Let all malignity and hindrance be cast forth
hencefrom and let all good enter herein.
Wherefore I bless thee that thou mayest aid me, In the names of Aradia
and Cernunnos."
[4] Drawing Down the Moon.
"I invoke Thee
and call upon Thee, Oh Mighty Mother of us All, Bringer of all Fruitfulness. By
Seed and Root, by Stem and Bud, by Leaf and Flower and Fruit, by Life and Love,
Do We invoke Thee to descend upon the body of Thy servant and Priestess
(name)."
High Priest and other men give Fivefold Kiss. Women all bow.
D.4. Forming the Circle. (1961)
FORMING THE
CIRCLE. [1] Must have a man and a woman,
properly prepared, i.e., naked.
[2] Mark a circle
nine feet across on the floor with chalk, etc.
The best way is to get a string.
Tie 2 loops four foot, six inches apart.
Put one loop over a nail or something in the center. Put chalk in the other and run it round. If you can't make marks on the floor, put
furniture, etc., round to form it. Have
a table, etc., as an Altar, with all tools, etc., on it. Have a bowl of water, and some salt.
[3] Place Athame on
the bowl of water. Say, "I exorcise
thee, O creature of Water, that thou cast out from Thee all the impurities and
uncleannesses of the Spirits of the World of Phantasm in the name of Aradia and
Cernunnos. But ever mind that Water
purifies the body, but the scourge purifies the soul."
[4] Then place
Athame on the salt. Say, "Blessings
be upon this creature of Salt. Let all
malignity and hindrance be cast forth hencefrom, and let all good enter
herein. Wherefore I bless thee that thou
mayest aid me, in the name of Aradia and Cernunnos.
[5] Then trace Circle on the lines you have marked out, starting at the East and returning to the East. (Always go round the circle with your Right hand to the Altar. Never go Widdershins.) Then put the Salt into the water. and go round the circle again, sprinkling it to purify it. Then go round again censing it. (Everyone in the circle must be sprinkled and censed.)
[6] Then go to the
East, Sword or Athame in hand. Draw an
invoking pentacle in the Air, starting at the top and going to the lefthand
corner, saying, "I summon, and call thee up, O Ye Mighty ones of the East,
to guard the Circle and witness our rites." Then holding the point of sword or Athame
upwards, do the same to the south, west, and north, and return to the center,
to the south of the Altar.
[7] Then each girl
should bind her man, hands behind back
and cable Tow to neck. He should kneel
at altar, and be scourged. When all men
are thus "purified," they purify the girls in turn. No one may be in the circle without being
thus purified.
[8] Then do
whatever work wanted.
[9] When closing
the Circle, the High Priestess, or whoever she tells to do it, saying,
"Hail, ye mighty ones of the East.
I thank you for attending, and ere ye depart for your lovely realms, We
say, Hail and Farewell."
Bibliography
These are books you
should read in order to see the sources
Gardner, Gerald
B. High Magic's Aid. Michael Houghton, 1949.
------. Witchcraft Today. Jarrolds, 1954.
------. The Meaning of Witchcraft. Aquarian Press, 1959.
Glanvil, Joseph,
and Henry More. Saducismus Triumphatus:
or, Full and Plain Evidence Concerning Witches and Apparitions.
Leland, Charles
Godfrey. Aradia: The Gospel of the
Witches of
Mathers, S. L.
MacGregor, ed. and trans. The Greater
Key of Solomon. De Laurence, Scott,
1914.
Murray, Margaret
A. The Witch-Cult in
------. The God of the Witches.
*
*
* These are shown
by a drawing to be: genitals, left foot, right knee, left knee, right foot, and
back to genitals.
* My Lady Epona
points out that this is precisely what Charles Cardell had claimed; that is,
this paragraph is a response to Cardell, and so it was probably inserted into
the Craft Laws after the run-in with the Cardells and Olive Green in 1959. This again is an indication that
---
APPENDED NOTE:
Although the information in regard to cource books is very
correct, it should
be noted that additionally
drawn from
non-publically available books of Masonic Ritual accessable only to
members of
FreeMasonry Lodges.
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