Wiccan Ceremony - Magic - and where it all started.

Rich Jerk! LOL

2005-10-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

LMAO!! You owe it to yourself to at least see this guys site. He is a genius. His views are refreshing. His ebook is the most credible that I have seen. (I've seen many)

Heres his opening paragraph...

Don't Waste My Time.....
Lets get something straight. I am a jerk. I am obnoxious. I am lazy. And I don’t care, because I am FILTHY RICH. I am much too important to even be sitting here writing this right now. So I'll keep it short. I make several million dollars every year on the internet, doing almost nothing. Heard that before? Well you can see proof of my earnings here. Have you seen proof like that anywhere else? Didn't think so. Do you make that much money? Didn't think so.

The Rich Jerk -- and his guide to internet wealth

Do YOU want to develop Your Psychic Ability?

2005-08-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Lynn Claridge and I have used my psychic ability all of my adult life. It was not until my late teenage years that I wanted to try and understand what was happening. I always knew deep down inside which direction I should have taken in a given situation, but more often then not I ignored this inner knowing and took the wrong path.

It was suggested to me that I had to understand this ability and I was introduced to a psychic medium that would take me under his wing. So I joined his psychic development circle.

It was within this circle that I realized everyone has this ability in one-way or another. It was nothing to be frightened of, it was something to cherish and use. It was great to join a group of people that had understood how to use this gift and I wish to pass this knowledge onto you.

Can you relate to any of this?

Think, an old friend has not phoned me for ages, then suddenly they do?
Do you know what someone is about to say before they say it?
Do you know when you are in a safe place?
Can you sense a good or bad atmosphere in a place you visit?
Do you know deep down which direction you should take, and then take it?

This e-book is full of practical exercises designed to advance your psychic awareness. Through developing this, you will understand your inner self. You will be able to make positive, life changing decisions and project a more confident, outer self. With the ability to change your inner self you will have the ability to change your life and guide others around you.

I'll tell you exactly how YOU are going to achieve a greater understanding right now...

Step #1 I will show you how to reach your deeper inner self - through relaxation.

Step #2 I will show you how you will learn to trust your intuition - your 6th sense - your psyche.

Step #3 I will explain how you can understand your sleep and dream interpretations.

Step #4 You will understand your emotions, your energy centers and your thoughts.

Step #5 You will learn to understand and trust the spiritual messages and feelings you receive.

And that's just for starters......

I will also teach you how to use the Tarot Cards, Zener Cards and how to experiment with psychokinesis. I will also teach you how to meet spirit.

One more thing - This is important.

This is your awakening to a new dimension. If you change your conventional way of thinking you can change your world. By learning to accept the fact that the Universe is one and that you are part of the Universe you can draw upon the powers of the Universe, the powers of the spirit that are within you and every living thing.

You are given the right to learn, to understand, to explore and to discover the way you want to live your life. Spiritual awareness gives you the light of positive thinking and allows you to overcome your fears and shortcomings in life. Just imagine how this awareness could change your life forever.

And that's not all: You receive my personal email address, so you may contact me for personal help or advice. Because I am fully committed to each and every person who wants to improve his or her psychic awareness, I offer email support free of charge. This means that if at any stage you need help, reassurance or support, you can email me directly at any time.

What Others Think About My Psychic development course:

Lynn Claridge, the "author" has carefully chosen to take each step leaving the reader with no doubt as to what in the past was called the unknown.
Each step the reader takes leaves them in no doubt as to the paranormal and nothing is hidden.
I found this book very difficult to put down.
Kenn Bates

Hi Lynn,
I purchased your book recently, I am slowly working my way through it but would decided to write a quick note to say I think your book is great it’s easy to understand and put into practice.
Your bonus section rings a lot of home truths for me, I have come to a stage in my life, where I seem to have lost so much and been very hurt mainly because I am a honest and open but extremely deep person. I have a lot of self belief and have achieved a lot so far in my life, I know if I stayed on this path I could be financially secure and probably find a measure of happiness but material gain is just not enough, in actual fact I really did not have a clue what to do, so thank you, your bonus section put my mind at rest.
Beverley Charmer

It is great to meet a person of the highest spiritual integrity that is devoted to their clients and constantly studying to enhance their skills.
It makes a change to find someone who is not frightened to address their own personal growth besides being utterly discreet and unquestionably trustworthy.
Whilst having a genuine warmth of heart and being a real giver, always putting yourself out for people with a deep desire to help people and to make the world a better place.
Lucinda Mackworth-Young

Complete information On Lynn Claridges' Psychic Ebook

The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells: The Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts

2005-07-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells: The Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts (Hardcover)
by Judika Illes

> Hardcover: 1100 pages
> Publisher: Element Books (February 1, 2004)
> Language: English

What Do Others Think About The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells: The Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts by Judika Illes

Highly Recomended Book of Spells. The Ultimate!!!, June 20, 2004
Reviewer: Voodoo Shaman "Witch Doktor" (Lowell, Ma)

Destined to be a classic. The Only Book on Spells You Will Ever Need.

This Book is not a Book on "Wiccan Magick" , although Wiccans who are not fluff bunnies, and are more open mided to learning could use it, and benefit greatly from this Book. It is a book on Folk Magic, from Brujeria, Santeria, Espiritismo, From Latin America, To Egypt, and other ancient cultures, from around the world. Many of these Earth-Magico Cultures do not believe in the concept of "Karma" so many of these Spells would be shunned by Wiccans. With that said..I Love this Book. I hope the Author does a similar book on Magical Ceremonies and Rites and Passages.

There are little books of spells, cheap book of spells, and so so book of spells, well this is the Ultimate Huge Tome of Spells. An Encyclopedia of Magical Spells from around the world, this book defiantly belongs in every Witches bookshelf. Over 1000 pages of spells, baths, infusions, the spells range from everything from Santeria, Strega, Vodou, Spiritism, Brujeria, Shamanism, and traditional Witchcraft. Unlike other spell books, this will defiantly be of great usage to its owner. One of the best Book of Shadows ever printed. The Tome, because it is Huge has everything from Banishing, Cleansings, Baths, Protection Spells. Everything from Seances, to calling on Spirits of Nature, from White Magic, to Black Magic, and everything in between. Here is a preview of the table of context.
Spell casting, - Ritual and Tools, - Animal Spells - Banishing Spells - Business Success Spells - Cleansing Spells, - Court case, Legal, Justice Spells - Death Spells (Yes there is much on Black Magic, for those weak of heart) Ghost, Necromancy, and Vampire Spells. - Divination Spells - Domination, Influence Spells - Dream, Astral, Nightmare Spells- The Evil Eye - Fertility Spells - Safety Spells - Gamblers Spells, and Charms - Happy Home Spells - Healing Spells - Hexes and Curses - Invisibility, and Transformation spells - Love and Seduction Spells - Luck Spells - Marriage and Divorcee Spells, - Money, Wealth, Prosperity and financial spells - Children Spells - Protection Spells - Psychic powers - Summoning Spirits - unblocking spells - weather spells, and trust me, so much more...
A person would have to spend allot of money, on many books and still would not get half of what this book has to offer.
I have to give much praise to Judika Illes; this book will defiantly be one I will use for many years. This is my first book by this author, and know I have to purchase her other works. But I can not recommend this TOME enough, it is defiantly a must have for all Witches, and brujos. For all that you get in this huge book, the price is excellent, and very affordable. The Spells are simple and traditional spells that were used by our ancestors and are still effective today. No where will you get a book like this. If I could give this book 10 stars, I would.

Excellent Work. Well met!, August 19, 2004
Reviewer: J. Hauck (Allentown, Pennsylvania USA)

"The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells" is truly a wonderful compilation of traditional Witchcraft remedies designed to enhance the particular practitioner's Magickal spellcraft abilities.

Although some of the listed spell components are antiquated, and some of the semantics seem lacking in depth, the body of the work is overwhelmingly right and proper. Illes provides the reader with a good historical grasp of spell lineage and use.

"5000 Spells" is a good value for the money spent. I heartily recommend this tome for every library.

The Mother of All Spellbooks, July 7, 2005
Reviewer: Charles Harrington (Calif, USA)

I am picky about spellbooks so when I saw this one on the shelf I was sure that it had to be terrible. A collection of 5,000 spells was just too much for me to believe that there was any real value to the book. I was sure that at very least it would just list a bunch of spells with no real information about how to work with them. I opened the book at random and came to the chapter on working with herbs. I was very surprised to read a detailed account of creating herbal infusions that matched up with an herb class I had recently taken. Upon further inspection I found that there was a plethora of supplemental information for nearly every section in the book.

One great aspect of the book is the way the spells are organized. Most (smaller) books will have a section labeled "Protection" and list a handful of spells on the topic most of which the reader will never (for various reasons) implement. In this book under Justice spells it begins with the most accessible, least involved spells "(Burn brown and purple candles) and then steadily increases the level of involvement (here's an oil you can make to anoint those candles). Many spells have a handful of various versions to try out. The famed "beef tongue" justice spell has 8 different versions including one for vegetarians.

There is a wonderful mix of traditional customs, vodoun, ancient formulas, herbal, candle, oil, sympathetic, entity summoning, and just about everything you can think of. Now, obviously I would imagine that Ms. Illes has not personally cast all 5,000 of these spells but I got the impression that she had a nice level of familiarity with the material.

And on a purely aesthetic level it feels very nice to pull a gigantic spellbook off the shelf and start flipping through its pages. After owning this one for about a month I bought copies for each member of my coven.

Buy this book and you'll need no other, June 24, 2005
Reviewer: Goddess Salimah "born into it" (va)

I have recently purchased this tome of spells and I am definitely recommending it for practicioners of ALL forms of magickal work, not just as a "working grimoire", but as a great reference book on the history and origin of spellcrafts of all peoples.

The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells: The Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts

Robert Thurman on Buddhism

2005-07-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

Robert Thurman on Buddhism (1999)

"Take refuge in the three jewels, the three precious gems," begins Robert A.F. Thurman's introduction to Buddhism: "the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha." Each of these is the focus of one tape in Thurman's three-part lecture series On Buddhism, an extremely thorough introduction to the philosophy, theology, and history of Buddhism. Thurman is well-known as a professor of Indo-Tibetan studies at Columbia University, having also translated The Tibetan Book of the Dead into English. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or enlightenment itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas. The videotapes themselves do not have elaborate production values: these are essentially college lectures, and they are not for newcomers to Buddhism. For people who have done some reading or have some personal experience with Buddhism and want to gain greater insight and understanding from a leading scholar, however, these lectures are an excellent foray into the intellectual, philosophical, and spiritual underpinnings of Buddhism. --Erik Macki

> Starring: Robert Thurman
> Encoding: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. This DVD will probably NOT be viewable in other countries. Read more about DVD formats.)
> Format: Color
> Rated: NR
> Studio: Wellspring
> DVD Release Date: July 2, 2002
> Run Time: 220

What Do Others Think About Robert Thurman on Buddhism

Very informative, easy to follow, February 21, 2000
Reviewer: A viewer

This was essential to learing the real thoughts regarding buddism. Books I had read in the past were difficult to comprehend the actual meaning of the teachings of the buddah. Thurman is a great teacher and makes it easy and enjoyable to learn about this way of life. Also makes reading other books on the subject much easier.

A good explanation, March 15, 2002
Reviewer: Jeffrey Leeper "kem2070" (Seattle, WA USA)

This series consists of three videotapes that cover three aspects of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Each tape is a lecture given by Robert A. F. Thurman at the Tibet House in New York. Excepting the occasional shot of the audience, each video is 70 minutes of his lecturing.

This is not necessarily a bad thing. Thurman is an entertaining speaker and does a great job in explaining some of the mystical aspects and philosophy. He is very good at relating to the audience. After viewing them, I do feel that I have a better grasp of main tenets.

This does not appear to be scripted. For instance, in tape two, he mentions that he will discuss the Four Noble Truths, the three wheels, and the three vehicles. He goes in depth on the truths and the first two wheels, but then seems to realize that he is running out of time so rushes through the last four. There is still good information, but I wished that these last ideas had the same kind of detailed explanation.

Thurman presents lectures on the "Three Jewels", October 11, 2000
Reviewer: Michael Schelb (Boca Raton, FL United States)

Robert Thurman, the renowned professor of Indo-Tibetan studies from Columbia presents popular lectures on the basic concepts of "The Three Jewels" of Buddhism - The Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. Thurman's style of teaching is light, sometimes humorous and entertaining enough to capture interest in the before mentioned topics. The video quality and sound are adequate - the lectures were recorded at Tibet House, New York, and the set of tapes provides a good introduction to Buddhist thought - great for the inquiring newcomer and a nice refresher for those who have studied this philosophy.

Robert Thurman on Buddhism

3 Free Magic Spells To Cast On Your Friends

2005-07-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever considered trying to use real magic or magick? If you could cast a spell what would it be?

Let's pretend for a minute that you have the power to transform every thought, every wish and every dream into reality - RIGHT NOW..

What would you do? What would you create? What would you wish for..Money? Love? Happiness? Friends? Health? Protection? Revenge? POWER?

Learn How to get these things and more without selling your soul or sacrificing your own blood.

Heres 3 Free Spells For Money, Love And Good Luck

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

2005-07-01T14:35:00.000-07:00

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying: The Spiritual Classic & International Bestseller; Revised and Updated Edition
by Sogyal Rinpoche, Patrick D. Gaffney, Andrew Harvey

In 1927, Walter Evans-Wentz published his translation of an obscure Tibetan Nyingma text and called it the Tibetan Book of the Dead. Popular Tibetan teacher Sogyal Rinpoche has transformed that ancient text, conveying a perennial philosophy that is at once religious, scientific, and practical. Through extraordinary anecdotes and stories from religious traditions East and West, Rinpoche introduces the reader to the fundamentals of Tibetan Buddhism, moving gradually to the topics of death and dying. Death turns out to be less of a crisis and more of an opportunity. Concepts such as reincarnation, karma, and bardo and practices such as meditation, tonglen, and phowa teach us how to face death constructively. As a result, life becomes much richer. Like Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, Sogyal Rinpoche opens the door to a full experience of death. It is up to the reader to walk through. --Brian Bruya

From Publishers Weekly
This modern interpretation of the Tibetan Book of the Dead outlines a path for spiritual growth.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

> Paperback: 425 pages
> Publisher: HarperSanFrancisco; Reprint edition (April 22, 1994)
> Language: English

What Do Others Think About The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

Mindful revelations, December 19, 2004
Reviewer: fantasykosmiceye

This is one of the best books I have read since reading the black and red book on The tibetan book of the dead in the 60's. Insightful and up there with sorting out what is this from what is that. Not for the timid, nor someone who is out of touch with Tibetian ethics in my opinion. I have studied for some years and had a little trouble,but it came around when I seriously dug in. I myself am in the midst of suffering a deadly disease(a lone buddhist at that in this town) that I must say this book has lifted my spirits and set straight the path I was taking in a better light. I especially like the part about how we can create duality ourselves or not. Finally an in- depth book on recognizing exactly when thoughts and emotions arise,how to avoid creating duality, and about accepting thoughts or rejecting them and why. I feel it is one of the more important books out there for the dying or those who tend to the dying(wish more Drs would read this),or suffering. Insightful, has become permanent part of my library.thank you Sogyal Rinpoche and all enlightened beings.

Extremely Useful., September 19, 2002
Reviewer: harendra desai (Bombay, India)

Whenever I read a book, I generally use highlighter and underliner to mark the sentences and words that convey the true meaning and essence of what the author wants to say. While reading The Tibetan Book of Living And Dying, I had to stop using the highlighter after a few pages only as the most of the words on each page were worthy of being highlighted. Indeed, the author has said so much precious on every page that a reader must read and re-read the book and with every reading she/he gets more and more knowing.The subject of death has been most puzzling and perplexing to humankind since the time immemorial. The Eastern way of looking at the death as only a 'transition' is explained by the author in a profoundly simple manner. The book certainly helps one to understand the true meaning of the phenomena called death. This understanding helps one to reduce the irrational fear of death. From the lives of the great men and women we know that those who 'lived' a life can only meet the 'death' with equnimity. Thus the author has first taught the art of 'living'. It is only through right type of living that we can 'live' the death also.
I suggest that this book be read by all the Buddhist as well as by non buddhists also. Every one who reads it will find something for him/her.
I salute Sogyal Rinpoche for giving us a wonderful gift of THE TIBETAN BOOK OF LIVING AND DYING.

Entering a new realm..., January 17, 2005
Reviewer: Nothing new "biased_perspective" (United States)

I consider this book a new awakening. What you know is changed by the books you read and this book is that essence. To consider the afterlife is one step, and to accept what others note about the afterlife is part of the second step. To provide the depth that Sogyal does is rewarding to the reader. I felt as if I was going through the stages Sogyal mentions. Although long, I felt as if the reading engaged me and led to me wanting to know what was next. Recommended...

My Favorite Book, January 6, 2005
Reviewer: Richard L. Weissman (FL United States)

This is the best book on Tibetan Buddhism I have ever read. It introduces the Western reader to all of the foundational tenets in Tibetan Buddhism - impermanence, compassion, karma, etc.
Having subsequently read numerous Tibetan Buddhist texts, I still recommend this book first to anyone interested in the topic.
It is traditionally authentic and simultaneously oriented specifically to the Western reader - this is due to the fact that Rinpoche is a Tibetan master that started out as a Tibetan-English translator for the great masters of the 1970s and 1980's and he has lived in the West and taught Buddhism to Westerners for decades.

A necessary read for seekers..., October 23, 2000
Reviewer: Dale A. Blanchard "Friendly Spirit" (Ohio USA)

My bookshelves are filled with books on many topics, including death and dying and spirituality -- this book might be the only book I really need.

For years I have thought I must read the Tibetan Book of the Dead -- but whenever I tried, it was much too complicated for me to understand.

Sogyal Rinpoche has written this book so that it is easily understood by anyone, even us Westerners, without compromising any of the Buddhist teachings it offers.

In essence, we begin to die the moment we are born. We spend this life preparing to die well. Nothing is permanent, but we spend much of our lives filling our time with activities and pursuits that help us elude ourselves into thinking that what we see and touch is all that matters.

Sogyal Rinpoche says, "To follow the path of wisdom has never been more urgent or more difficult. Our society is dedicated almost entirely to the celebration of ego, with all its sad fantasies about success and power, and it celebrates those very forces of greed and ignorance that are destroying the planet. It has never been more difficult to hear the unflattering voice of the truth, and never more difficult, once having heard it, to follow it: because there is nothing in the world around us that supports our choice, and the entire society in which we live seems to negate every idea of sacredness or eternal meaning. So at the time of our most acute danger, when our very future is in doubt, we as human beings find ourselves at our most bewildered, and trapped in a nightmare of our own creation."

He writes about the importance of realizing the interconnectedness of all living beings (including nature), of meditation (and gives instructions and advice), of finding and being devoted to a good master (something very difficult for Westerners to accept -- he acknowledges that there are fraudulent ones about), of learning to live and learning to die, of letting go of egos and becoming egolessness. Throughout the book, he tells of female masters as well as males, something female readers may greatly appreciate.

Sogyal Rinpoche is from Tibet, and speaks of the cruelty of the Chinese to the Tibetan Buddhists (very similar to the persecution of the early christians, and later the Jews by the Nazis -- when will we ever learn, but then that's the point of this book!)

In the last section of the book, he speaks of "The Universal Process" which is about spirituality, living and dying of all humans, regardless of race, spiritual beliefs, gender or national origin. There are in the back two mantras with explanations and he shares photographs of his beloved masters. Throughout the book are inspiring poems from such poets as Rumi and St. Francis of Assisi, as well as Buddhists. In the very back he gives suggested readings, and offers phone numbers and addresses of Rigpa National Office, where those who are interested can find referrals to cources and study groups in the US, Canada and around the world.

This book is a very good place for the seeker to begin. For those curious about Buddhism, or seriously interested in becoming a Buddha or a Buddhist, or just looking for more thoughts and information on death and dying, this book is excellent, easy to understand, thought-provoking.

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying: The Spiritual Classic & International Bestseller; Revised and Updated Edition

Real Witch Secrets - 3 Free Spells

2005-06-23T19:05:00.000-07:00

For the first time since the Pharaohs...

...Create Black or White Magic!!!

Have you ever craved to have magic powers? And be able to use them whenever you please, to dramatically improve your life and help the ones you love?

Let's pretend for a minute that you have the power to transform every thought, every wish and every dream into reality - RIGHT NOW...

What would you do? What would you create? What would you wish for... Money? Love? Happiness? Friends? Health? Protection? Revenge? POWER?
"What if we could show you a way to get ALL these things and more, WITHOUT sacrificing blood or selling your soul?"

This IS the real deal!

3 free spells for money, love and good luck...

18 Buddha Hands Qigong - A Workout Video (1999)

2005-06-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

18 Buddha Hands Qigong - A Workout Video (1999)

Qigong: 18 Buddha Hands promises viewers an introduction to qigong (pronounced "chee-gung"), the relaxing Chinese exercises meant to tone the body and the mind. Instructor Larry Johnson leads the audience through the simple stances and repeated movements of the 18 Buddha Hands form effectively, but production values can be a little distracting--the narration occasionally shifts in volume, and a long spoken introduction to the history of qigong is marred by dodgy sound and irrelevant natural vistas. Those new to qigong and similar martial-arts disciplines would have gotten more out of the video had it offered more detailed close-ups, shots from behind the instructor as well as in front, and some mention of exactly how each of the exercises should feel. Nevertheless, by simply doing as the instructor does and keeping in mind the breathing instruction from the narrator, you get the general idea pretty quickly. The movements--mostly a collection of stretches and stances--are disarmingly simple, so there's little chance of getting lost. And each exercise is repeated to the right and the left, so there's no need to fear getting it backwards by mirroring the instructor, a natural risk when watching the moves head on rather than from the back. The gorgeous outdoor setting also makes repeat viewings of the workout a pleasure for any fan of fitness and relaxation. --Grant Balfour

> Format: NTSC
> Rated: NR
> Studio: (studio name not provided)
> Video Release Date: February 12, 1999
> VHS Features:
> NTSC format (US and Canada only.)

18 Buddha Hands Qigong - A Workout Video

The Structure of Magic: A Book About Communication and Change

2005-06-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

The Structure of Magic: A Book About Communication and Change (Book 2)
by John Grinder, Richard Bandler

A Book Of Communication And Change

> Paperback: 198 pages
> Publisher: Science and Behavior Books (August 1, 1975)
> Language: English

The Structure of Magic: A Book About Communication and Change (Book 2)

The Elements of Ritual: Air, Fire, Water & Earth in the Wiccan Circle

2005-06-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

The Elements of Ritual: Air, Fire, Water & Earth in the Wiccan Circle
by Deborah Lipp

Wicca 202: Advanced training by an experienced High Priestess Many books may tell you how to cast a Wiccan circle, but none really bother to explain why. When you finish reading The Elements of Ritual, you'll know what each step of the circle-casting ceremony means, why it's there, and what it accomplishes. You'll learn several alternative approaches to each step, and you'll be empowered to write your own effective ceremonies using sound magical, theological, and pragmatic principles.

Advanced, sophisticated Witchcraft philosophy and practice

Delves further into the theology and theory of every phase of ritual, along with practical how-tos and how-not-tos, and much esoteric, hard-to-find information Every step of ritual has at least two sample scripts, including an avant-garde example Provides detailed instructions for writing your own ritual

Includes meditations on the deeper meanings of each phase of ritual

About the Author
Deborah Lipp was initiated into a traditional Gardnerian coven of Witches in 1981, became a High Priestess in 1986, and has been teaching Wicca and running Pagan circles ever since. She has appeared in various media discussing Wicca, including the A&E documentary Ancient Mysteries: Witchcraft in America, on MSNBC, in The New York Times, and in many smaller TV and print sources.

Deborah has been published in many Pagan publications, including The Llewellyn Magical Almanac, Pangaia, Green Egg, The Druid's Progress, Converging Paths, and The Hidden Path, as well as Mothering Magazine. She has lectured at numerous Pagan festivals on a variety of topics.

Deborah is a technical writer with a variety of skills. She lives in Rockland County, NY, with her son, Arthur, who tap dances, and two cats. Deborah reads and teaches Tarot, designs wire-and-bead jewelry, solves and designs puzzles, watches old movies, hand-paints furniture, and dabbles in numerous handcrafts.

> Paperback: 312 pages
> Publisher: Llewellyn Publications (July 1, 2003)
> Language: English

Making Your Wicca Rite, May 20, 2005
Reviewer: Anubis RainHawk "arg89" (San Bruno, Ca United States)

With so many beginner books on the market, there is a dire need for a book that goes deeper into the theory, theology, and magick of Wiccan ritual. The Elemets of Ritual by Deborah Lipp is that book, taking you deeply into each phase of ritual. This is not a beginner's Wicca 101. This is Wicca 202, advanced training by an experienced High Priestess.

'The Elemets of Ritual' begins by explaining the elements and their qualities and associations. The remainder of the book is divided into six chapters, by the ritual sequence. Each individual step is also divided by it's elemental quality. From beginning to end, Lipp gives great advice about what to do and what to avoid. She gives at least three examples for each step in ritual, so that the reader may eventually be able to write his or her own rituals.

Lipp also gives an interesting and thought provking disscussion on the gods. She describes Their importance in Wiccan, so They must be the center of every ritual. She uses the "Honored Guests Metaphor" to describe how to act and worship in the presence of the gods. She gives her own ritual sequence, based around the gods. Unlike most books, Lipp actually gives gives structure to Wiccan ritual.

'Elements of Ritual' is the first of it's kind becuase Lipp actually tells you the WHY of ritual. Many books tell you how to cast a circle, this book tells you why. Many books give you the ritual for Cakes and Wine, this book tells you when, why, and how. In addition, this book gives you valuble information nessecery to proform a truly effective ritual.

The author truly knows her subject well, as seen in her writing. In addition to the other great material, Lipp gives meditaions to create a deeper and more profound ritual experience. Out of all the books I've read on Wicca, 'The Elements of Ritual' has to be one of my favorites. 'The Elements of Ritual' completely outshined all of my expectaions. Buy it or regret it later.

Impressive book!, December 25, 2004
Reviewer: Larry M. Smith (USA)

Ms. Lipp is a very good writer. She has a very good flow into her words and great knowledge. I have to admit, i was sucked into her pages. Many were wonderful chapters that were written in ways i never heard of, but, well understood. Some topics were advanced (not a lot though), but, her "explaining" was very well detailed and her book didnt read like every other pagan or wiccan author. This book shouldnt be passed up and would have to say its one of the better books on the self this year.

The Elements of Ritual: Air, Fire, Water & Earth in the Wiccan Circle

Mindfulness and Psychotherapy

2005-06-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

A Pocket Full of Money

2005-06-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

My name is Nelson Freytes. A few months ago I felt extremely frustrated with my financial situation. I was getting ready to turn 31 years of age when it hit me like a ton of bricks; I thought...

"Oh my God, I'm a liver transplant recipient, I am doing nothing with my life I am enjoying, I constantly worry about money (so much so that it had become a habit to which I had forgotten any other alternative could even be possible), I dislike where I live and days seem to go by like speeding cars on the highway."

I needed something. A teacher, a friend, answers. I remember one day at work thinking - I've read and studied so much "self help" and grown so frustrated that at this point all I really would like is just something different. Not a "fix my life now" type something, but maybe just something different, profound and that simply attempted to help me feel better, give hope and gentle guidance.

Honestly, I forget exactly what keywords I used to search on Google that day, but whatever they were, I found something. It was very interesting, because the title of this book seemed very silly to my senses, but I clicked on it anyway.

The eBook I found that day was "A Happy Pocket Full of Money" by David Cameron. And WOW, what a find! I remember literally pausing several times during reading simply to thank God for putting this information before me just when I really needed it.

Countless times through my reading I remember saying to myself; the world must get a hold of this information fast, others have to experience this for themselves, poverty and wealth are not what most of the planet thinks it is. It's all just a big misunderstanding, perhaps one of the most damaging misunderstandings humans will ever needlessly experience.

Suddenly, it was clear; I had chosen myself to bring this find to the world, starting here and now. It became clear when magically, the words "WealthConscious.com" just came out of me. I needed no further proof. Especially after I went to register the domain name and sure enough, it was available.

I think you know where I'm headed with that, but I truly believe that we manufacture our coincidences and you reading this right now is a result of both of our purposes and desires.

"Truly an amazing gift to the world that you just must experience for yourself"

I can tell you though, that when you read A Happy Pocket Full of Money and understand it, you will feel so acquainted with money and wealth that you will immediately see, identify and find amazing wealth. Not by winning the lottery, or getting a raise at work, or getting a huge inheritance, although those are true everyday possibilities, but you will know this wealth where it has always been and always will be - In You!

When you read A Happy Pocket Full of Money...

You embark on a whole new journey, at the end of which you shall know how to create all the wealth and happiness you ever wished for, now, without any limits. You shall soon also know many timeless truths about who you really are, what you are doing here, and what this truly beautiful game of life is all about.

Download Happy Pocket Full of Money Ebook

Ancient Egypt

2005-06-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

Ancient Egypt [MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION]

Ancient Egypt is a magazine researched and written by experts in the field of Egyptology. Its lively and informed style appeals to the many thousands of ordinary people fascinated by this early civilization, and provides them with the latest news on their interest.

> Format: Magazine
> Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
> Publisher: Empire Publications

What Do Subscribers to Ancient Egypt Think?

Fantastic Insight, September 29, 2004
Reviewer: Mr. A. Shaw "ohnice" (London)

Into the world of Ancient Egypt, if you are interested in this ancient civilization, then this is the mag for you. Packed with full colour pics and detailed explanations of the world of the pharaohs, this bi-monthly mag has lept me fascinated since it first appeared 4 years ago.

Discover a different world, December 9, 2003
Reviewer: jeepster (Manchester, England)

'Ancient Egypt' takes you into a different world - of pharoahs and mummies and mysterious Gods. I have to confess I wasn't really into all this stuff before but the way in which this magazine conveys the Egyptian mindset is unique and it's not all about the pyramids! Great mag, buy it and feed your imagination.

Ancient Egypt

Spiritual Healing With Gemstones

2005-05-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

Gemstone therapy and our high-quality gems have been embraced by practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine, as well as by medical doctors, acupuncturists, and other holistic health practitioners. Professional and Olympic athletes and trainers report dramatic improvements in athletic performance using Gemisphere’s therapeutic gemstones. Top actors, musicians, and other celebrities all over the world are enjoying the extraordinary benefits of Gemisphere’s pure and natural therapeutic-quality gems.

Recognized as the world's finest therapeutic gems, Gemisphere’s therapeutic gemstones promote healing and awakening on every level - body, mind, emotions and spirit. The experiences of people in over 44 countries demonstrate that Gemisphere’s therapeutic-quality gemstones and gem therapy deliver consistent and powerful benefits.

Whether you are seeking greater energy and vitality, physical healing, emotional health, mental improvement, or spiritual upliftment.

What Do Others Think About The Healing Power of Gemisphere Gems?

Laura S., L.Ac., N.D. (Licensed Acupuncturist, Naturopathic Doctor)
I have used Opalight to clear relationships. It has helped me break the patterns of my past way of relating and helped me bring my relationships into the now. I wear Mother of Pearl when I am having difficulty feeling loving. It has brought out more sweetness in me and helped me be more loving with my clients and patients."

Twyla Barr
I am experimenting with Dark Green Aventurine and Quartz and the Summer necklace to aid in the healing of exotic baby birds that are expected to die. Because the gemstones’ effects are so strong, I use them for short periods during the day, and I closely monitor the birds. The results are excellent. The baby birds are surviving when they were not expected to do so.

For 'difficult' and abused birds, I use Roselle hung outside the cage, and I have noticed these birds become much more approachable.

Karl B., TX
I am an adult male who has been dealing with ADD for many years. I’m pleased to report that my 12-mm Poppy Jasper is calming me down, and my blood pressure is down a little as well. I’m also currently on medication for ADD and high blood pressure.

Learn more about our tools for holistic healing and awakening.

Cord Magick!

2005-05-23T02:09:00.000-07:00

Craftwise Volume 2: Cord Magick

> Encoding: All Regions
> Format: Color, NTSC, Full Screen
> Audio Encoding: Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo
> Rated: Unrated
> Studio: CustomFlix
> Run Time: 73

Author and Witch Peter Paddon teaches the basics of Spellcrafting, and explores the art of Cord Magick - Knotting the thread of Fate - The ethics of Binding - Traditional forms of knot magick - Protection spell - Travel spell - Justice (legal) spell

Craftwise Volume 2: Cord Magick

Blessed Be - A Wiccan Ceremony

2005-05-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

Blessed Be: A Wiccan Ceremony Audio CD

'Blessed Be' is a celebration of all that is natural and spiritual! Original Wiccan texts are sung by a female choir, accompanied by beautiful music. The first chant is for casting a circle of protection, the second is used to connect with Cerriden's cauldron of knowledge and inspiration and the third pays homage to The One who created all that is. All three songs are long-playing and allow the singer or listener to tune into the Divine Presences in order to set the mood for sacred magick. This recording is a lovely addition to any gathering, or may be used for solitary practice. The music is so mesmerizing that it also provides a soothing backdrop for all kinds of meditation.

Listen to Samples of Blessed Be: A Wiccan Ceremony

Modern Magick: Eleven Lessons in the High Magickal Arts

2005-05-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

Modern Magick: Eleven Lessons in the High Magickal Arts (Llewellyn's High Magick)
by Donald Michael Kraig

> Paperback: 600 pages
> Publisher: Llewellyn Publications; 2nd ed edition (August 1, 1988)
> Average Customer Review: 4 1/2 of 5 Stars (based on 99 reviews.)

First 2 Paragraphs...

I want to start by telling you that all of the "fairy tales' and stories about the powers of wizards, witches and magicians are true! But, unfortunately, only in part, However, it is possible to create spells to bring yourself money, love, wisdom and more.

You must understand, though, that unlike the magick in fairy tales and in movies, most real magick does not occur instantaneously. As an example, if you worked a ritual to bring you money, it may take a week or two for the money to arrive. When it does arrive, it would come only by natural means. But, if you properly perform your ritual, come it must!

What do others think about Modern Magick?

This IS the ONE for beginners and experienced as well, September 2, 2002
Reviewer: "radion" (Germany)

After all those years of wondering about magick and trying to find a book which really teaches you the REAL secrets of magick, this book wins the ultimate MUST HAVE. Very good for those who are starters in Magick. This book lets you understand and learn the Whats, the Hows, and the Whens of Magick. You will be able to understand other books on the Occult once you have finished reading this book. Most of the beginners would like to jump to COOL Magick like Goetia - then upon reading it and trying to summon things - nothing happens - then you start wondering if you have to read between the lines, well, in a way yes. So, before jumping to those more advance versions of Magick, this book will be your guide to understand what Magick is and how to use other Magickal or Occult books.
I know many who likes to skip chapters just to learn what one wants to learn. If you are serious in Magick, take your time to go from the beginning. You need to build up sufficient knowledge of how to let Magick happen. As for experienced Magicians, I would say that this is a good reference.
This book is mainly based on Kabbalistic Magick and a few Low Magick (nature magick). Too bad there isn't much on Enochian. I've been followin the lessons in the book and I can say that: its not complicated and Magick WORKS (this statement are for those who are sceptics)!!
All in all this book provides you with good history in Magick though not in detail but still not too boring. For those serious in this, I would also recommend the audio tape to pronounce the difficult words there are in the book.

BEST Beginners Magick Book For The Price!, April 11, 2005
Reviewer: Kent D. Bentkowski "Kentroversy" (Buffalo, New York USA)

Modern Magick is the very book I use in my own teaching of magick. My students have said that the information here is presented well, and is written in layman's language, and not in the advanced language of an Aleister Crowley or the more traditional magickal tomes. Explains everything in methodical progression, and perhaps even more importantly, explains WHY everything is important to the discipline of magick and to the beginning student. At fifteen dollars, this book is by far, the BEST beginner's book for the price for students of magick!

Great book on Magick (2nd edition), December 24, 2002
Reviewer: J. Dougherty "Kalimir" (USA)

MODERN MAGICK
by Donald Michael Kraig

There is a problem with the first edition of this book. In lesson 7 the olympic/planetary seals are totally messed up. Meaning he assinged Hagith (venus to the the seal of Phalec (mars) and so on and so forth. Now to the experienced magician they could spot this right away, but the beginner will have absolutly no clue that there is a mistake here. Now it does not matter if this is the authers fault or the editor's fault there is a mistake. Otherwise the book is very, very good but not excellent. I give the first edition four stars. Plus the talismans are ok I like the way he describes a way on how to make talismas and amulets in a pagan way.It has pretty good info on the subject of amulets and talismans. If you are interested in making talismans get Making Talismans by Nick Farrell. This may be the only book you may need for powerful and postive magick using talismans and amulets.
The second edition is much better where the mistake is corrected. But the auther from what I read did not mention there was a mistake in the first edition. Now on to the more postive review. The book is excellent for those who are interested in Ceremonial Magick. It deals with the magick of the Golden Dawn tradition. The chapters are divided in lessons. There are a total amount of 11 lessons. There is information of the Qabalah and the Tree of Life. He gives many rituals throughout this book, including the ritual of the pentagram, the hexagram ritual, the rose cross ritual and much more. The Watchtower ritual he gives is a more simplified version although very effective. You will find a lesson on sex magick here as well (you may not want to have your youngster read read chapter 10). In lesson 9 you will learn a bit on the Goetia. Also you will learn how to make some of the tools used in CM. Although he does give a brief history on wi! tchcraft and the oppersion of it throughout time this book does not have anything to do with Wicca at all. You will learn about talismans and amulets and how to create your own. You will learn so many thing from this book. This is suitable for the beginner who knows nothing about magick and is suitable for those who know about magick and has a lot of experience and wants to get into Ceremonial Magick. This book also makes a wonderful reference as well. Also I would like to mention that the second edition has a section on the frequently asked question on magick as well. Also at the end of each lesson this is refering to the first and second editions there are questions at the end of each chapeter about each lessons. I find this book to be valuable and intelligently written. This book is a hot seller the first edition has over a 100,000 copies in print! This is a book that I seriously recommed to anyone who is interested in learning CM. Kraig did great work with this! one!
Five stars for the 2nd edition *****

Look Inside Modern Magick: Eleven Lessons in the High Magickal Arts (Llewellyn's High Magick)

Goddess Ritual Athame

2005-05-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

Features:

> Bone colored handle
> Goddess w/ white wolf design
> 5" Double edge blade
> Includes black weave sheath

Athame has bone colored handle with picture done in blues of a goddess and a white wolf. Over all length is 12" with blade being 5". Double edge blade. Comes with black weave knife sheath with belt loop.

Goddess Athame

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

2005-05-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

> Paperback: 240 pages & ebook
> Publisher: Penguin (Non-Classics) (February 1, 1999)

Book Description

In this practical, playful, yet spiritual guide, Charlotte Kasl, author of the highly successful Finding Joy: 101 Ways to Free Your Spirit and Dance with Life, shows you what it would be like to have the ancient wisdom of the Buddha to guide you through the dating process.

Kasl brings a compassionate understanding to the anxiety and uneasiness of new love, and helps readers discover their potential for vibrant human connection based on awareness, kindness, and honesty. She approaches the dating process as a means for awakening, reminding us that when we live by spiritual rules, we bring curiosity and a light heart to the romantic journey.

Filled with quotations from Zen, Sufi, and other wisdom traditions, and informed by the experiences of people from all walks of life, here is a relationship book that will appeal to readers looking for more than a Venus-meets-Mars solution to the complex affairs of the heart.

Download Description

"In this practical, playful, yet spiritual guide, Charlotte Kasl, author of the highly successful Finding Joy: 101 Ways to Free Your Spirit and Dance with Life, shows you what it would be like to have the ancient wisdom of the Buddha to guide you through the dating process. Kasl brings a compassionate understanding to the anxiety and uneasiness of new love, and helps readers discover their potential for vibrant human connection based on awareness, kindness, and honesty. She approaches the dating process as a means for awakening, reminding us that when we live by spiritual rules, we bring curiosity and a light heart to the romantic journey. Filled with quotations from Zen, Sufi, and other wisdom traditions, and informed by the experiences of people from all walks of life, here is a relationship book that will appeal to readers looking for more than a Venus-meets-Mars solution to the complex affairs of the heart. "--This text refers to the Digital edition.

Reviews of If the Buddha Dated

Crawl, Don't Fall, In Love!, October 1, 2000
Reviewer: Friendly Spirit (Yellow Springs, Ohio USA)

This book, written by a Quaker psychotherapist with an interest in Sufism and Buddhism, is a treasure for adults (of all ages!) who wonder why dating and relationships are so difficult. This book isn't intended to educate any of us in Buddhism as a faith, but to speak to those who want a fulfilling intimate love relationship.

Western culture's view of love -- often a hard-to-fulfill expectation of love-at-first-sight encounter, based on a strong and immediate physical attraction, ending with a happily-ever-after-fairy tale conclusion -- has confused, disheartened and frustrated many of us who just can't make that kind of romance last for long, let alone forever.

This book combines Buddhist, Quaker and Sufi spiritual philosophy to love, helping us clear our minds. Kasl calls this, "crawling in love," and says, "When we crawl in love we are more likely to find the true fire of hearts meeting..."

As another reviewer stated, the information in the book is "common sense, nothing original in it at all." That comment, I suspect, would make the Buddha laugh. We have been on earth so long, certainly there is nothing new under the sun to help us with our relationship problems, only old truths we forget as we get caught up our romantic wish for Love American Style.

Kasl reminds us of some simple truths. Ground yourself in spiritual wisdom, remember the impermanence of everything, learn compassion for yourself and others. She sites some common themes in Quakerism, Buddhism and Sufism - center yourself, take time to reflect, listen to that still small voice within, and you will be able to accept and give love in a deep, lasting way.

She explores our need for an intimate relationship, in a way that is different from the Mars and Venus approach which focuses more on the differences between men and women, tending to widen the gap. Unlike Gray's books, and others which direct us to learn how to say and do the 'right stuff' externally, she encourages us to find connect in the spiritual and human similarities we have with each other, and to respond to each other from our genuine selves.

She touches on ads, dating services, the internet, same gender relationships, dating when there are kids involved, physical intimacy, tonglin meditation, and breaking up.

This book absolutely is not for everyone. The reference to "Christian" spiritual practices on the back cover is misleading, since it actually draws on more liberal, non-dogmatic Quaker practices. If you are more of a Western philospher than an Eastern philosopher, if you would like new ideas spelled out in an easy to follow, guaranteed fashion, you probably should skip this book.

This goes on my own list of books to loan, give or recommend to friends and family members struggling with 'relationship issues.' And to the friend who loaned it to me, I say, Thanks, Jack!

My Own Personal Handbook for Having a Healthy Relationship, April 21, 2005
Reviewer: C. K. Seager

This book is, in my opinion, by far the most helpful book on healthy relationships that I have ever read. I read it over the course of a year as I was just ending a very unhealthy relationship and needed to just take everything very slow. She has offered so many helpful ways in which to have and maintain a healthy relationship.....I have recommended this book to countles others who were searching for the answer to 'what dos a healthy relationship look like?'....I still highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. I have read reviews where people have commented on the fact that the Buddha is mentioned in the title. Even if this book has nothing to do with Buddhism, what difference does it really make as long as this book is helping some people to find that which as alluded them for many years......

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)

2005-05-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)

First Page

Magic is a byproduct of the oldest science - far older than astronomy, chemistry or biology. This "science" constituted the earliest investigations into nature. What caused the seasons to turn, the sea to rise and fall, the birth and death of all living things?

Magic - the use of natural energies to bring about needed change - arose when those early humans discovered invisible forces around them. Humans were aware of the effects of gravity, electricity and magnetism long before such terms were coined. Nuts fell to the ground. Lightning blasted trees. Animal fur created sparks when stroked on dry days, metallic rocks strangely attracted bits of iron...

> Author: Scott Cunningham
> Paperback: 288 pages
> Publisher: Llewellyn Publications (June 1, 1989)
> Average Customer Review: 4 1/2 out of 5 stars

customer reviews

Fantabulous!, November 10, 2000
Reviewer: "son-of-jove" (Portland, OR USA)
The more books I read from Scott Cunningham, the more I like them, and this one's no exception!

Cunningham presents us here with a recipe book for more than the title implies. Besides showing us how to create our own inceses, oils, and brews, he also explains how to make tinctures, powders, bath salts, soaps, sachets, and inks. There are tons of different recipes available, especially for incenses, for all sorts of magickal purposes.

Substitutions are also treated. Several pages are broken down by plants, purposes, planets, and astrological signs which are very, very useful is you have a particular goal in mind. For me, these are the best parts of the book. If I need to know which oils to use or herbs to burn for a healing spell, they're all right there. If I need to attract some more lunar energy in an esbat ritual, I can very quickly find that I can use lemon oil on my candles if there's no myrrh or jasmine around.

Overall, it's a great book and Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs is the perfect companion for it. I highly recommend it!

PERFECT, April 30, 2005
Reviewer: Son of Obatala (Riverside, CA.)

As soon as I started reading this book I realized that it is perfect. It is simple and easy to follow his instructions. I read a few books similar to this one and none of them come close to compare to it. After reading each section I couldn't wait to try it for myself. I learned so much from this book, it is definitely a book that should be in every ones libary. I can't wait to read more books by this author.

"Complete" is the Best Description, April 8, 2005
Reviewer: Elizabeth Clements "author and artist" (New Hampshire, USA)

This book, a revised edition of the original, is an essential work for those seeking to learn the uses of incense and other mediums of scent used in performing spells, rituals, and other magics. It is further proof that the late Cunningham had a passion for magic, as he provides in great detail the many processes a magician may utilize in order to create their own incense, oils, salves, tinctures, brews, and more from fresh, natural ingredients. In that respect, this book is a tremendous resource for anyone looking for recipes for creating magical blends but also creating them from scratch.

Although I lean more towards the classical or traditional side of spellcraft (where substituting ingredients is not so well-embraced), this book is thorough in providing nearly all substitutions imaginable, for when you cannot find a certain ingredient anywhere or unsure whether or not what you're looking for even exists in the modern age. Also, if you're trying to gather ingredients from a recipe written a few hundred years ago, the name of this or that herb has most likely changed. Cunningham will most likely have covered these in this book.

It is not every day that you can recommend a single book on a subject and consider it the only one needed in a library concerning the subject matter, but I feel confident that I will never need to invest in another book of a similar nature. The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews is exactly what it says it is, a complete resource- a virtual one stop shop of knowledge for the herb-crafter magician.

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)

Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

2005-04-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs (Llewellyn's Sourcebook Series) (Paperback)

Paperback: 318 pages
Dimensions: 9.0 x 6.0 x 0.9 inches
Publisher: Llewellyn Publications; 1st ed edition (October 1, 1984)
Average Customer Review: 4 1/2 out of 5 stars -based on 95 reviews.

Reviews

Comprehensive & Essential, January 22, 2000
Reviewer: "drago-merlin" (Singapore)

It does seem that one don't normally need to review the priceless works of the late sage, Scott Cunningham. His knowledge and gift to the Wiccan community is legendary. This book, like one of our learned reviewer mentioned, "is a BILBLE reference". It contains almost all imaginable herbs and their corresponding influences to assist in a successful magickal working. I have read many herbal books that claim to be complete and must have..blah blah...but nothing really comes close to this one. It's not that one has to pay alot of money in order to obtain knowledge but these days on the book front, you start to wonder if the writers and publishers of some expensive books on herbal lore should read up more before flooding the market with dubious contributions. You can tell when you have picked up a great book. With Scott Cunningham, he's never short on sharing everything useful he knows and my my, this man really really knows alot. Go get it!

A Reference for us modern witches, February 14, 2002
Reviewer: "fragileice" (White Plains, New York United States)

Scott Cunningham, in his time, turned out quite a few books and references for the modern, 'practical' witch. Though many of the herbs listed seem arcane- when I bought this book it was the first time I had heard of herbs like eryngo and life-everlasting- this reference is well done.
The herbs are organized alphabetically, and black and white drawings of the plant or flower are to the side of each entry, which typically includes the scientific (Latin) name, health codes (such as G for safe, and a guide is included in the book for all of the codes), any folk names, its attributed gender, planet, element, and deities, followed by brief (or sometimes long) descriptions of ritual and magical uses.
After the listings of herbs, there are lists of categories, under which are listed what herbs fit that area- such as masculine plants, herbs that correspond to certain ritual intentions, and elementary rulers. Also included are an index, a glossary, and a mail order list for those who do not have an herb store nearby (and it's hard to find something like mandrake in your local grocery store!).
Granted, this book is not the be-all and end-all of herbal studies. I recommend finding yourself at least three good sources and using them together when using herbs.

Necessary Resource Book, January 26, 2005
Reviewer: Fiendish Dramaturgy "ELSWET.COM"

While not exhaustive, this is a definite "must have" for anyone learning the arts of Herbalism/Herbology. While all herbs, fruits, and fungi are not named, this is quite the definitive work, as of this writing.

Scott Cunningham had a good grasp of the concepts and finer points of Wicca and the various arts with which it is associated. While not all Magick Users endorse the Llewellyn's Resource Series, I, for One, do.

This book in particular, is an excellent springboard and/or supplemental for any path, any pantheon, with illustrations, magickal uses, history, practical uses, and associations listed, given, and chronicled. The tables in the back, I have found, are completely indispensable.

I highly recommend this work.

one of my fav books of all times, February 19, 2005
Reviewer: Jasmina Malnar (Zagreb Croatia)

if you want to learn about wicca/magick and do some kitchen witchcraft to create more love, health and abundance for yourself and your family, there are three books i would absolutely recommend: Cunnningham's book on gems and metals, this one on magical herbs, and Silver Ravenwolf's solitary witch. Three books i always have by my side..

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs (Llewellyn's Sourcebook Series)

The Power Of Numbers

2005-04-19T13:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Friend,

Hi ... my name is Blair Gorman, and while I am a Master Numerologist now, I am also a computer scientist and software engineer with over 20 years experience.

One day I accidentally stumbled upon numerology when my fiancee dragged me along to meet a visiting numerologist. In all honesty, back then I thought it was all nonsense, just like many of my scientist friends.

However, numbers fascinate me -- so I decided to listen to what the guy had to say -- and was stunned by what I learned ...

I was able to predict major events and turning points in peoples lives with laser-like precision ... I was able to create a "road map" for people's lives that left their jaw hanging open in astonishment ... I was able to glimpse into a person's very soul to find out what they held dearest, and to help them get more of what they most wanted out of life.

At first I was ridiculed by my scientist colleagues ... they were skeptics, just like I was before I started my wonderful journey of discovery. Then, I started applying it with them, and changing their minds through the accuracy of my predictions (even though they had to call me privately after-hours, as they didn't want to let their colleages find out).

Here's just a few of the amazing things that happened:

> I predicted - to the very day - when a close colleague would have a major relationship crisis. (I never told him beforehand, and wish to this day that I had warned him ... he discovered his girlfriend cheating on him)

> The following week, I predicted a friend of mine would have a mechanical breakdown. Sure enough, even though she hadn't had a breakdown in over 18 months, the starter motor in her car died ... on the very day I had anticipated!

> Later that week, I let that same friend know that an old friend would bring her good news. Sure enough, it happened ... in the form of a wonderful job offer.

I could go on forever here, but you get the idea ... and that's just a small sample of the sort of things that I use numerology to predict, on a daily basis. As Albert Einstein once said, "God does not play dice" ... our entire existence is based upon numbers, you just have to know how to interpret them.

Heres what other people thought about my readings

"I cried, both out of joy and sadness"

"As I begin to read the first few pages of my numerology reading, I teared up and let up a subdued sob. It described me so well, both what I present to the external world and my deepest wish within. It explained to me why my ambition and passion, past struggles and repeated pattern of experience."

I cried, both out of joy and sadness as it affirms my strengths and gifts of this life, as well as the seeming curse of isolation and neglect of my home and family. At the same time, it gave me the tool of awareness regarding my weakness. I can yet still transform it into strength, using the same determination and courage."

-- Liza - Ohio, USA

"How can you know THIS about me?"

"I was truly astounded by it's accuracy! It was so 'weird' but revealing at the same time! I mean, I often found myself asking the question: How can they possibly know THIS about me? The reading also described my feelings at this stage in my life and it hit me straight in the face. Incredible!

Thank you so much....I've always believed numerology and astrology could tell me "more", but now I know for sure."

-- Sabrina Hoornaert - Financial Administrator, Belgium

"So accurate it was scary!"

"Your astonishingly acute report confirmed exactly what had been evolving in my life. From the personality traits in my early childhood to my current situation your reading was so accurate it was scary!"

--Susan Maurath - USA.

|Continued|

Be comfortable and meditate!

2005-04-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

I might be the most uncoordinated and inflexible dude that ever lived. When I sit to meditate I have a lot of trouble finding a good pose that is not uncomfortable. You know it can be really distracting when you start to feel pain in your knees during a sitting. I have a bench that is very similar to the one pictured and it really helps a lot. All I do is put a pillow under my ankles and another one under my knees. Maybe someday I will do the full lotus, but for now at least I am doing better with my meditation.

Elegant design for a meditation bench. With a slightly slanted seat, it is ergonomic and comfortable as well and nicely finished. Made of wood. It serves as furniture in your home, and gives it a feeling of being a "sanctuary". True functionality offers you a place to go for going within. You can bet the meditator in your life doesn't have one of these yet!

Mushroom meditation bench

Why Do Some Christians Fear Witches?

2005-04-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

During my 28 years as a practicing Wiccan, or "witch" if you
prefer, I have had occasion to ask myself this difficult
question many, many times. With the recent political controversy
over the United States Army permitting pagan services to be held
on military bases in Texas and around the world, the question
suddenly has more than its usual immediacy for me and for my
brothers and sisters in Wicca.

First, let me get the usual questions out of the way. Wicca is a
real religion, born in the 1950s as a recreation of the Old
Religion of Northern Europe, which some believe dates back about
25,000 years. In the mid-1980s, the U.S. Courts accepted Wicca
as a legitimate religion and granted us 1st Amendment rights and
freedom from taxation. So the point is moot, really. The same
U.S. Constitution that protects Christianity protects our
religious freedom – and a good thing, too. We are the fastest
growing religion of the 20th Century.

We do not believe in an evil deity, and would not worship one if
we did. We do not practice human or animal sacrifice. The most
sacred commandment our religion demands of us is to harm no one.
If you think about that last statement carefully, it pretty well
covers most of the Biblical Ten Commandments - the important
parts, anyway. Even more important, we do not attempt to convert
our friends and neighbors to Wicca. Our faith teaches us that
when they are ready for what we have to teach, they will seek us
out.

What about me, personally? Am I a New Age nut? Well, that
depends on what you mean. I'm an environmentalist, certainly. I
am also a feminist. On the other hand, I do not do illegal drugs
of any kind. I am a computer technician working for one of the
largest employers in the United States. I am a Microsoft
Certified Systems Engineer. I am an aspiring science-fiction
writer and screenwriter, actively peddling stories and novels to
the publishing industry in New York and motion picture scripts
to Hollywood. I am a licensed pilot and a licensed aircraft
mechanic. I am a licensed private investigator. My favorite
hobby is reading physics textbooks, and I apply such knowledge
to my science fiction. I am a veteran of the United States Air
Force, the United States Air Force Reserve, and the Texas Army
National Guard, and during the time I served, I held a
top-secret security clearance. I served my country well and was
honorably discharged. I've been arrested only once in my entire
life, as a 17-year-old runaway, and I've had a grand total of
three traffic tickets in almost thirty years of driving. In what
way am I such an evil and dangerous neighbor?

Why have I been forced to practice my religion in secret for
most of my life? Why, during my active duty years (early to mid
1970s), was I forced to record "No Pref" on my dog tags? Am I a
pacifist? Hardly! Women have never been drafted in the United
States, so why would I have enlisted voluntarily (and during the
Viet Nam war!) if I were a pacifist?

Why does publishing my real name on this article cause me to
risk the loss of my job, vandalism to my home and my car, harm
to my animals (and children if I had any)? Does this make any
sense to a rational human being?

Where does the knee-jerk hostility to the word "witch" come
from?

Not from the word, certainly. "Witch" is a corruption of
"witcraft," or "craft of the wise." In fact, my religion is
sometimes called "The Craft of the Wise," or just "The Craft."
There is nothing sinister there. Do we practice magic? Yes, most
of us do. Do we have supernatural powers? Of course not. Oddly
enough, those who believe the practice of magic is so evil are
often those who most sincerely believe in faith healing. Just
think about that honestly for a moment, and try to explain the
difference to me. I'm waiting . . .

Let’s get back to the Craft of the Wise. During the Christian
Inquisition, nobody really knows how many accused witches were
burned at the stake. It is known, however, that a number of
village wise women were accused of witchcraft and burned for
curing fevers with nasty stuff like moldy bread. Were they
followers of the Old Religion? Probably - although I wasn’t
there, and I honestly have no idea. Were they wise? You bet they
were! Did you ever hear of penicillin? How many centuries of
medical knowledge were lost because of a bunch of frightened
priests?

So where did the idea come from that we were (and are)
Satanists?

The most obvious answer is that the moldy bread cure worked, and
was unexplainable. A number of other herbal and common sense
remedies were surprisingly effective, as "alternative" medicine
is re-discovering today. The only way the church could admit
these cures worked (and it was a little too obvious to deny)
without admitting this was a really good thing was to make the
claim that the women practicing these cures had made a pact with
the Devil. Heavens, they couldn't be physicians! Medicine was
firmly in the hands of the priests, and the practice of medicine
was expressly forbidden to women. At the time I write of, formal
medicine consisted mostly of applying leeches to the sick.

Were the village wise women the only problem? No. During this
early medieval period, when the Christians were converting
Northern Europe at sword point, a lot of dirty tricks were
played. The country folk, whom we believe to be the ancestors of
modern Wicca, worshiped a Goddess we consider the Mother of
Life, and a God we call the Horned Hunter, or God of Death. For
us, death is merely a door to rebirth, so there is nothing at
all fearful for us in a God of Death. In an effort to make
non-Christianity something horrible, the monks who drew the
medieval Biblical illustrations "borrowed" our Horned Hunter
when they drew depictions of the Christian Devil. You needn't
take my word for this. Any educated person knows that the Greek
Pan predates Christianity by some considerable period of time.
Take a good look at a drawing of Pan in your nearest
encyclopedia. Look familiar? He should. You've been looking at
him in biblical illustrations dating back to your first Sunday
school. Pan is the Greek form of our Horned Hunter. They are one
and the same god. Read your mythology. Pan was never evil, just
playful.

If all that weren't enough, Exodus 22:18 was horribly
mistranslated in the King James Version of the Christian Bible.
The original "Suffer not a poisoner to live among you" became
"Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live." Some pretty
bloodthirsty fundamentalist preachers want to enforce that
mistranslation literally, even today. In August of 1999, Rev.
Jack Harvey of Killeen, Texas, was quoted as stating publicly
that all witches should be killed. He organized a “March Against
Wickedness” for that Labor Day Monday in Killeen (which flopped
pitifully), and I believe he was hoping and praying it would
erupt into real violence, because he advised members of his
congregation to carry guns, in case some of us witches decided
to snatch his kids.

Can you spell “bizarre?” We would never, of course, kidnap
children, but could someone please explain to me why we are
supposed to want them? And, in particular, why we would want his
offspring? I thought the idea of sacrificing Christian babies
was discarded when the Nazis falsely accused the Jews of it.
This is more of the same bigoted excrement.

In terms of our current century, Hollywood hasn't helped us
much, either. Sick, twisted individuals who worship evil have
always existed, and sadly, I'm afraid they will for a very long
time to come. They pervert the Christian cross by inverting it,
and sometimes, they invert our sacred symbol, the pentagram, as
well. Hollywood directors just can't seem to get it right,
though. They consistently show evil ceremonies prominently
displaying the pentagram right side up.

When the pentagram is displayed properly, the symbolism is that
of a man standing upright within a circle, meaning uprightness
and spirit over flesh. In other traditions, the five points
represent the four elements (fire, air, earth, water) surmounted
by aether – or spirit. In any case, spirit is on top. Needless
to say, the symbolism of an inverted pentagram is obscene to us,
just as the symbolism of an inverted cross is obscene to you if
you are a Christian. Because most Christians have seen movies in
which evil ceremonies were presided over by an upright
pentagram, they are upset and frightened when they meet a Wiccan
wearing one. That's understandable enough, but it should be
corrected by education.

Other reasons for fear again date back to medieval times. The
reasons have mostly been forgotten, but the fear remains. During
medieval times, life was unpleasant. In fact, it was downright
horrible for the peasants. Christianity taught the peasants that
it didn't matter, that the material world was to be shunned in
favor of a reward in the Christian Heaven. Wiccans did not, and
do not, agree. I can still remember my first teacher telling me
that it would be difficult to cultivate my spiritual nature
until at least my basic physical needs - as in food, shelter,
warmth - were met. We are taught that achieving success at
another's expense is wrong (remember we are permitted to harm
none!), but success in itself is actually a virtue. In medieval
times, daring to hope and work for success was dangerous
thinking. It might even have led to a collapse of feudalism. So
the Christian hatred of that tenet of Wicca was one part envy,
one part fear.

Another envy/fear combination had to do with the fact that Wicca
is fun. The Old Religion is filled with laughter and
playfulness. Our ceremonies are wonderful parties, full of happy
tipsiness and flirtation. By comparison, medieval Christian
practices were rather grim. Somehow, the Christians who were
trying to convert us had to convince us that slipping off into
the woods for a bonfire and a roaring good time wasn't such a
good idea. Do what they would, though, they couldn't get us to
give up our fun. Quite logically under the circumstances, they
"borrowed" from us. The use of song and chants in ritual
(although why the church couldn’t manage happy song, I can’t
say), incense (borrowed from Mithraic ritual)– even some actual
elements of ritual itself. You can hear echoes of our cakes and
ale ceremony in Christian Communion. Oh, I don't doubt that
Jesus of Nazareth had bread and wine during his Last Supper!
That's as may be, but I don't think the contents of his last
meal became a central part of Christian ceremonies until
Christianity clashed with the Old Religion in Europe.

Where did Jesus get the idea in the first place? Mithras, who
died following a ritual meal of bread and wine? Or the cakes and
ale of the Old Religion? Scary question, isn't it? For the
record, I believe it was Mithras, as he was the secret god of
many of the Roman troops occupying Palestine at the time of
Jesus of Nazareth. Nevertheless, enough Roman troops were
European “barbarians” that it is just possible that some
elements of our faith were known to Jesus himself.

20th Century Christian practices never struck me as being a
barrel of laughs, either. Wiccans are still having fun. So there
is bound to be some ongoing envy, if not outright fear.

Please do not misunderstand. I am not bashing Christians! Those
who practice their faith honestly have no part in this hatred
and fanaticism. Most are decent men and women, and I am proud to
call many of them my friends. When the Rev. Jack Harvey called
for a Christian boycott of the Armed Forces over this pagan
worship controversy, Rev. Pat Robertson had the courage to
publicly withdraw from the boycott and state it was wrong. I
refer only to the dignified lack of humor in the Christian faith
as it has been practiced down through the centuries. It does not
speak to my heart at all.

Also, if I am to be completely honest, I must admit that pagans
aren’t completely innocent in the dirty tricks department. The
so-called Cult of Mary, which existed within Roman Catholicism
for so many centuries, was actually a secret form of “safe”
Goddess worship.

I wonder how many Christians know how many of their holidays
were originally ours?

Samhain, our New Year celebration, when the walls between the
worlds are at their thinnest and our beloved dead walk and feast
among us, became Christian All Hallows or Halloween. One
ceremony used by pagans to encourage a rich crop (although not
at Samhain, which is after the harvest) was the sweeping of
brooms over the planted fields. To early Christians watching
from a distance, it must have looked like the witches were
riding on the brooms or trying to do so. Since Samhain was known
to be the witches’ most important holiday, witches riding on
broomsticks became the symbol of Halloween. Not so surprising at
all.

Yule, or the winter solstice, when we celebrate the birth of the
Sun God to Mother Earth and Father Time, was borrowed for the
birthday of the Christian Jesus. Most Christian scholars agree
that Jesus was actually born in the spring. The Yule log, the
tree, and even the Nativity Crèche were originally pagan
customs. If you have Wiccan friends, and you thought they were
only protecting themselves by displaying a Nativity Crèche at
Christmas, you were wrong. We had Nativity Crèches long before
you came along to convert us!

Imbolc, our festival of light, when we celebrate the start of
the Mother's return to us, along with the birth of new lambs and
flowers awakening under the snow, became Christian Candlemas.

Beltane, our famous (and infamous) fertility celebration when we
leap the bonfires in joy at the arrival of summer, became May
Day, famous for playful fertility celebrations throughout the
Christian world.

Lammas, or August 1st, when we celebrate the fruitfulness of the
land - well, how many Christians have celebrated the rich
harvest to come down through the centuries?

There are many, many more examples of "borrowing."

And therein lies the real root of the problem.

The thing a few fanatical Christians fear most of all is being
forced to admit our kinship, because after nearly 2,000 years of
borrowing, we aren’t so very different anymore.

About the author:
At a tiny 5'1", Kathryn A. Graham is a licensed private
investigator, pilot, aircraft mechanic and handgun instructor in
Texas. Also a prolific author, she has written numerous
articles, short stories and a science fiction novel.
http://www.kathrynagraham.com/

Goddess of the Woods

2005-04-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

Check out this Goddess of the Woods Sculpture!

I found it at Amazon for less than $40.00.

Awakening the Buddha Within : Tibetan Wisdom for the Western World

2005-04-01T13:15:00.000-08:00

Awakening the Buddha Within : Tibetan Wisdom for the Western World

If you dropped the Buddha into a modern metropolis, would he come off sounding like a 16th-century morality play or more like a drive-time disc jockey? Lama Surya Das doesn't spin platters for a living, but he does have a hip delivery that belies his years of sheltered training in Buddhist monasteries. In Awakening the Buddha Within, he borrows a time-tested bestseller format for a 2,500-year-old tradition that comes off as anything but ancient. With the "Five T's of Concentration," the question of "need or greed," and the story of the monk who bares his backside to prove a point, Surya Das invokes a path of wisdom that is as accessible and down-to-earth as a worn pair of loafers. It's not an easy path--it demands thought, effort, and discipline. But Surya Das is there for you, lighting the way to wisdom training, coaxing you into ethics training, and laying out step by step the path of meditation training. And if that's not enough to get you to live in the now, consider these words of the enlightened lama: "You must be present to win." --Brian Bruya

Product Description:
Lama Surya Das, the most highly trained American lama in the Tibetan tradition, presents the definitive book on Western Buddhism for the modern-day spiritual seeker.

The radical and compelling message of Buddhism tells us that each of us has the wisdom, awareness, love, and power of the Buddha within; yet most of us are too often like sleeping Buddhas. In Awakening the Buddha Within, Surya Das shows how we can awaken to who we really are in order to lead a more compassionate, enlightened, and balanced life. It illuminates the guidelines and key principles embodied in the noble Eight-Fold Path and the traditional Three Enlightenment Trainings common to all schools of Buddhism:

> Wisdom Training: Developing clear vision, insight, and inner understanding -- seeing reality and ourselves as we really are.
> Ethics Training: Cultivating virtue, self-discipline, and compassion in what we say and do.
> Meditation Training: Practicing mindfulness, concentration, and awareness of the present moment.

With lively stories, meditations, and spiritual practices, Awakening the Buddha Within is an invaluable text for the novice and experienced student of Buddhism alike.

Less than $10 at Amazon.com.

The Encyclopedia of Wicca and Witchcraft

2005-03-22T22:59:00.000-08:00

Raven Grimassi's Encyclopedia of Wicca and Witchcraft is easily the most important book on the subject to come out this year. It will be seen as one of the most important books on Wicca and Witchcraft for years to come. From now on, if you want to know anything about the history or methods of the Craft, this is the place you will start.

Do you need to find out about a person who has had an important impact on Wicca: Gardner? Sanders? Clutterbuck? Valiente? It's in here.

Would you like to discover more about Wiccan holidays: Mabon? Lughnasadh? Litha? You'll discover it in here, too.

Also in here is information on magical tools and methods, philosophy, theology, various pantheons, Pagan traditions, herbs, and their powers and even the flows of energy around the world called the "Tatvic Tides." Three hundred photos and illustrations let you see what people look like and help to amplify the information.

Perhaps you'd like to learn about Scottish Witchcraft. In this book you'd learn that the first modern mention of it was in a book by Raymond Buckland. "Such was the response that Ray got to his mention of this tradition, that he had to publish full details...The information was provided by Wiccan teacher Aidan Breac..." If you want to know more about Breac and the PectiWita tradition, you'll find it in this book.

Many people think that Wicca has no real laws. However, there are 140 Traditional Laws of Witchcraft. You'll find them all listed here. You'll also discover the difference between a pentacle and a pentagram, what the Odic Force is, the eclecticism of the Ladywood Tradition, the ancient sources of working magic "skyclad," plus lists of Pagan publications, mail order suppliers, and so much more.

This is an important book you will want to get right away!

A Review

Raven Grimassi has collected together in this one volume some of the basic elements of Wicca and Witchcraft as well as some biographies of the movers and shakers within our community.

Mr. Grimassi covers many areas of beliefs, such as the various Gods/Goddesses and their stories. He also covers such items as tools, books referencing Wicca and Witchcraft, trees, animals, organizations and so much more. He has entries related to history, myths, legends, shamanic material and so much more that the book becomes a text book as well as a reference book. The information is general, but covers much of what a researcher might want to know about each subject and how it relates to Wicca and Witchcraft.

What I found interesting were his bios of people who have either founded or were an influence to our Spiritual paths. From Aleister Crowley to Oberon (Tim) Zell to Doreen Valiente to Carl Weschcke, he provides information as to who these people were in a brief but insightful manner. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the backgrounds of some of the people who have written our books or founded our organizations or have had some influence on what we know today as Wicca and Witchcraft.

This is a good book for those who are constantly referencing this kind of material, as Mr. Grimassi has put much of what we have to usually look in many volumes for into one convenient location. This is a wonderful collection of information that will be pulled off the shelf again and again.

Look inside this book

Book Review (Complete Idiots Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft)

2005-03-20T11:37:00.000-08:00

The Complete Idiots Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft

I have always found the idiots guide series of books to be one of my favorites. Idiot I am not, these books put things into laymans terms. They break things down so that you can properly digest what you are reading. This book is no exception. It is an excellent book that lives up to the idiots guide's high standards.

The complete idiots guide to wicca and witchcraft is an introduction to the beliefs and practices of wiccas nature based traditions. Brand new spells from blessings and invocations to protection and binding spells. Easy to understand rituals to pull up, work within and take down magick circles. Witches practice magick, and they also practice wicca - an earth based religion that honors a deity that is divided into male and female spirituality known as the god and goddess and that gives reverence to the earth. Throughout history, witches have faced persecution becouse of misconceptions about them and their practices. But wicca and witchcraft have survived and are going strong. In fact, wicca is one of the fastest growing religions in the united states today.

Some of the chapters include:

Chapter 1 - All About Wicca and Witchcraft
Chapter 4 - Wiccan Deities: Homage to the Lord and Lady
Chapter 9 - Preparing to do Ritual
Chapter 11 - Cast a Magick Circle
Chapter 13 - Esbats: Moon Magick

|View this book at Amazon|

Searching Inside Wicca Books

2005-03-18T12:03:00.000-08:00

Looking for books to buy on the internet can be daunting if not downright scary. It seems like you never know what you are getting. When I go to the bookstore I like to thumb through the book a little. You know so I can see if it offers what I am looking for. Or if it will be a good read or not.

Previewing a book online is a great way to shop on the web. It helps you find what you are looking for without the fear of finding the wrong thing.

Amazon.com is not big for no reason. I was just there the other day and noticed that when you look at one of their books they give you an option to search inside the book. What a great idea. Now, I feel a little more comfortable buying online.

Besides that they have thousands of books on wicca magic and rituals. Pretty much anything you can imagine. New or Used. hint: The used books are a steal.

Search Amazons wicca books

Bye Bye worries

2005-03-16T11:55:00.000-08:00

One of a witchs' favorite things to carry in their pocket is a worry stone.

Worry stones are smooth, polished gemstones in the shape of an oval with a thumb-sized indentation. Their origins are in Ancient Greece. They are held between the index finger and thumb. Popular belief says that when you rub one of these precious stones your worries will be lessened.

Take a look at these five.

The Witchs Pentacle Cauldron

2005-03-13T00:05:00.000-08:00

Cauldrons are one of the most important parts of a witchs altar. They are often used for scrying or to represent water or fire. There are also myths that the cauldron represents reincarnation and the cycles of birth. Figures such as the Goddess Cerridwen and Bran the Blessed are often associated with the cauldron, also.A small fire can be lit in one for the burning of incense or spells during a ritual (sabbat). Cauldrons also work great as a candle holder for your spell candles!

Back in the day of old you would often find a cauldron sitting in many homes. My grandma used a huge one to make apple butter in every year. Traditionally they come with three legs which is a representation of bounty and lessons.

Depending on the spell that is being worked it is common to place the cauldron at either the Male South or the Female west.

A three legged Pentacle Cauldron

Whats a wiccan without a wand?

2005-03-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

For Wiccans a wand is the tool for air. They are often made of wood or some type of crystal. Modern day wands have crystals or symbols integrated into the, as well.

For ritual purpose, it is common for the wand to be used as a replacement for an athame (ritual dagger). It is also possible to use a wand with an athame during a ritual.

A wand will quickly become very important to you and when you find out how effective you can be at channeling your energy through it you will be addicted. If you are thinking about incorporating a wand into your wiccan magic you should take a look at Kevins Lair. They have one of the largest selections on the internet of everything wicca.

Basic Candle magick and Color Correspondence

2005-03-09T11:55:00.000-08:00

The burning of a candle has a soothing and calming effect. Lets not forget the magickal effect of candle burning, though. It seems like magick has been left far behind in the hustle and bustle of modern society. The wicca religion often calls for a spell to be cast with a ritual candle. Even when a candle is not called for in a spell it can still greatly enhance the effect of it. When you create your magickal circle consider putting a candle at the north, east, west and south positions. This can greatly enhance your magickal experience.

For wiccans the color of candle means a lot. Each color has it's own unique correspondence and the color of a candle will actually determine the success of a particular spell.

Continued...

Pentacle Chalice for a Sabbat

2005-03-07T18:03:00.000-08:00

These chalices are great for a Wiccan ritual or Sabbat. A pair of lotus shaped chalices come in a cloth lined velveteen storage case. Chalice bowl is silver plated with an engraved pentagram on both sides and a brass stem. Each 8" high. Kevin's Lair Chalice are custom and unique. Our chalice are made of the finest ingredients and make the perfect gift for the chalice lover in your life.

Candles of the World

2005-03-06T02:07:00.000-08:00

These are high quality, gorgeous and have the most amazing aromas! They are made BY WICCANS and PAGANS FOR WICCANS and PAGANS - therefore they are blessed and charged with the appropriate energies. Each set also comes with full instructions and an affirmation or spell.

Old World Wisdom Blended with Today's Needs to Create Your Own Magic! These Candles are created with herbs, oils and related colors to help achieve your dreams. Each candle includes a beautiful uplifting blessing and message.

Candles included in this set:

1) Egyptian Temple Kyphi Candle
Amber Candle with Egyptian Resins and Oils

Kyphi is the holy incense blend used in the Sacred Temples in Ancient Egypt. It is a blend of many herbs, oils, resins used to open the deepest self the Divine Wisdom of the Universe.

Cinnamon, Clove, Lotus, Frankincense, Myrrh, Cedar.

We researched long to find the perfect blend.

Candle Size 6.5" H X 2.5" W * Burns Approximately 73 Hours

2) Tantric Ritual Fire & Ice Candle
Deep Ice Blue Candle with Jasmine Sandalwood and other exotic resins

Buddha's Gift of the tantric tradition teaches us to make every moment sacred through ritual.

The Tantric candles are hand-made with the oils and colors sacred to Tantric Ritual that awaken every sense.

Amber, Jasmine, Musk, Patchouli, Sandalwood.

Candle Size 6.5" H X 2.5" W * Burns Approximately 73 Hours

3) Witch's Brew Candle
Black Candle with rare Resins, Herbs and Dragons Blood

The Witches Brew Candle is Back! You ask and you shall receive! Made with exotic magical oils such as Dragon's Blood, Mugwort, Frankincense Resin and Myrrh, the candle keeps its tradition of a hand-poured core dipped in a midnight black resin wax.

Wrapped in black tulle and one of a kind.

Candle Size 6.5" H X 2.5" W * Burns Approximately 73 Hours

4) Peace Candle
Pure White Candle with Lavender and Heather Oils and Herbs

We have had many requests for the Peace Candle - here in pure white with herbs of Lavender and Heather on the top.

A tall elegant candle with the hope of Peace in the World.

Candle Size 9.0" H X 2.5" W * Burns Approximately 73 Hours

The whole line of Wiccan Spell Candles

How to Scry with a Crystal Ball

2005-03-03T18:10:00.000-08:00

The crystal Ball

A guide to the theory and practice of Crystallomancy

Why Does It Work?

A popular theory as to why the crystal ball works is that every person has latent abilities which are suppressed by the routines and rules of everyday life. The degree to which these powers are ‘hidden’ varies from person to person - those who are more in tune with it are regarded as mystics or seers. However all people have the ability to some degree - it is just easier for some.

Obtaining and Caring for your Crystal Ball

Your ball should be large enough to read clearly but not so big that your eyes find it difficult to see it fully. Generally speaking, the ideal size is about 100 to 110mm (about 4 inches).

Always store your crystal ball in a wrapped cloth and keep it out of direct sunlight (the sun/heat-cold extremes will drain it's power). Clean it with a cloth moistened with a water and vinegar mix and then polish with chamois or velvet. Remember, do not let anyone else touch or handle it - or your rapport with it will be broken.

Prepare to Scry!

It is pointless trying to scry a crystal Ball in a room full of people or in a noisy, distracting location. Make sure you are alone in a room that is not noisy and does not have a lot of light in it (Draw the shades). If you are reading other people then keep the room occupancy at a max of two. Anyone that is not being read should stay still and silent. Drape a dark (preferably black) cloth behind and beneath the Crystal Ball. If you want you can stack a small pile of books and drape a cloth over them.
A burning candle at the rear or to one side of the Ball is preferable for many wiccans. This is not recommended for beginners. When you are advanced it is believed that a candle will help 'activate' the crystal ball.

How to read a Crystal Ball

If you are a beginner do not expect immediate results. As with anything that is great scrying takes time, patience and experience. The rapport that you need to have with the crystal ball may come quickly for you, but it can take months before it is developed for most people. Do not be discouraged if your first sessions don’t produce results, some of the finest scryers also found it very difficult to start. Stay relaxed and concentrate. Tune the world out! This is meditation. Let it fill your vision and your mind. Don’t worry about time. After so long you will see change in the Ball. This varies between scryers - - some see the Ball filling with milky clouds which change into different colours and then darkness followed by the appearance of images within the Ball - some see wispy white clouds which move through the crystal forming shapes of people and objects. - some see written messages - some see clear ‘cinema quality films’ portraying events past, present and future. You may find any of these or some other type of depiction. At first you may see shapes and silhouettes rather than sharp pictures.

Interpreting

The images you see in your ball may be either actual or symbolic. This can be confusing but with practice you will be able to interpret which is which. Most of the time you will see both image types at different times and in the same session, sometimes. Actual events may appear like a movie or a sequence of images which depict some event or occurrence. You will ‘know’ whether this is in the past, present or future although some scryers adopt a rule using the position of the image in the Ball - if the image is at the center the ball it represents the present, the back represents the past and the front represents the future. The very back of the ball would then represent the distant past, and the very front the distant future with progressions in-between.

Reading symbols in The Crystal Ball

A lot of the symbolic images are obvious - trust your feelings when interpreting. This list is only a guide and may be helpful but use your instincts as they will always be your best guide:

Anchor - Safety
Beetle - Long life
Bird - Message. An eagle brings good fortune, a brightly coloured bird, happiness and a vulture or similar, problems.
Clouds - When rising positive, when descending, negative
Crown - Status, power
Cup - Love, relationships
Dragon - Good Luck, strength
Eye - Fate for better or worse
Frog or Pig - Prosperity, fertility
Fruit - separately, children or on a tree, children to come
Horse - Change, movement
Lighthouse - Warning to take care
Lion - Strength, recovery
Moon - Peaceful life, family
People - A large crowd or party, vitality a small group, friends
Scales - Justice
Snake - Knowledge
Star - Success, Fame
Swan - Good news
Tower - Masculinity, Ego
Unicorn - Purity, innocence
Water - Communication, contacts
Waves - physical love
Wheel - Changes, new

Kevins Lair has the largest collection of crystal balls on the net.

Psychic Talking Boards

2005-03-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

Talking Boards are a class of board games that were introduced to America in the late 1890s. Over the last century, these "games" have brought endless hours of entertainment to those who have ventured to play. Spirit boards, witchboards, magic boards, & mystery boards are all guises of the talking board. Though countless theories have emerged to explain how & why talking boards work, they remain cloaked in a shroud of mystery to this day. From the bloodline of the mysterious talking board, Cryptique brings this classic game into the 21st century. Four years in the making, Cryptique is the first talking board designed exclusively for the new millennium. Its unique design was conceived in 1997. The distinctive layout & artwork mirror the talking boards mysterious past. Fashioned after a century of talking board history, Cryptique combines the spirit of its ancestors with modern creativity to create a look & feel with genuine vision. Shunning a disturbing trend of other talking board manufacturers, Cryptique doesnt skimp on the boards size; measurements are 17" x 11". This generous surface area allows for uninterrupted sessions due to insufficient playing room. There are no fold lines on Cryptique, so the seer will glide smoothly across the entire board. The board itself is constructed of paper applied to covered 100 point chip board, while the seer consists of a label applied to a specially molded piece of plastic. Contains game board & moveable seer. Instructions on use are on the back of the box. Intended for entertainment purposes only.

A Wiccan Bedspread that can be doubled as an altar cloth!

2005-02-27T12:57:00.000-08:00

I found you a new way to stay warm at night and stay in your element at the same time. These wiccan blankets are so cool. The one I like most is the Bedspread Pentacle . You can use it as an altar cloth, bedspread or wallhanging. Measures 90 x 108 (double bed size) and made of 100% cotton with a large central pentacle surrounded by Celtic knot designs on a black background.

A pentagram or pentacle, a five-pointed star sometimes surrounded by a circle, is often used to symbolize Earth and its properties -- stability, material wealth, the body, and practical affairs.

A flute for magick

2005-02-26T11:30:00.000-08:00

A great way to enhance your wiccan ritual is with a wiccan flute. A wiccan flute is designed for use when making magick (spell casting). So, next time you cast magic be sure that you have one of these so the melodies you create will can help you call forth good forces.

To scry or not to scry

2005-02-23T10:06:00.000-08:00

Using a scrying mirror for divination is an art that takes time and patience to develop. The preparations that are required are no different than all other types of divination. Allow your mind to become receptive; make sure you do this at a time when you won't be interrupted and can attain a high level of concentration. So you are going to want to do this when you are as relaxed and comfortable as possible.

Developing a routine for scrying is probably the most important. You have to train your psychic muscles just as you would train your body for a marathon. The mind responds to a pattern incredibly well. At first, you will probably have trouble attaining the required level of concentration, but it will get easier all the time.

Scrying is much the same as meditation as in the fact that you should not be trying to look for anything. All you have to do is relax and allow your eyes to become less focused when you are gazing upon the mirror. When you begin your scrying remember you're not looking for anything. As you sit you may see things moving about in the mirror, such as shadows. Don't think. Just let it happen and relax. If you are able to see your reflection, it may change. The mirror may become cloudy or become dark.

If you are having trouble attaining the necessary levels of focus, try one of these:

Light a spell candle to scry with.

During the 6 days after the new moon invoke Ariadne. Ask her help in allowing you to see clearly.

When you have seen or "heard" what you feel you were supposed to then you should drape your cloth over your mirror and thank Ariadne for her assistance in your scrying.

Celebrate wicca the right way!

2005-02-21T06:02:00.000-08:00

A wiccan ceremony is a very special time. The atmosphere that you create will determine the success of all the magic spells you cast. Don't get caught casting a spell without proper preparation. Good atmosphere creates good results.

Candles and aroma burners are the way to go for sure. The reason why is simple. They are often made specifically for wicca and pagan rituals (Plus they look really cool).

I have a whole collection of aroma burners and spell candles. The spell candles are made especially for wiccans and pagans and the aroma burners often have a pentacle design incorporated into them. Some of my candle sets promote prosperity, luck and so on. If you are just looking for a fragrance oil to burn for a specific ritual (sabbat) this is the first place you should to go.

Astral Projection - The guide to self realization

2005-02-19T01:47:00.000-08:00

Experience the ultimate adventure. Leave your body easily and safely. This kit is your guide to the most exciting journey of your life. Effective and easy to master, astral projection is a powerful tool for self-realization. Explore the astral plane through step-by-step exercises and discover what life is like beyond the physical body. Find out firsthand about soul-sculpture, astral sex, and safely observe the mysteries of the afterlife. Travel through time and space, meet beings from other planes of existence and learn what secrets await you in the higher dimensions -- the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. Everything you need to begin this amazing journey into self-discovery is in this kit. Contains a 90-minute Deep Mind Astral Projection audio tape that guides you through the simple process of astral projection, the 252-page book "Practical Guide to Astral Projection" that takes you through easy exercises to facilitate an out-of-body experience, a unique Astral Projection Card which provides a meditative focus to help you open the inner gateway to other dimensions, and a special instruction booklet for using all of these valuable tools together quickly and easily.

Deeper into the Wiccan ritual

2005-02-17T09:43:00.000-08:00

Wiccans try to meet out of doors where possible. North American climate and concern for personal safety usually forces them indoors. They gather in a circle, which is often nine feet in diameter. Candles on the circumference are usually oriented to the four cardinal directions. Some Wiccans align the candles to the walls of the room. An altar is at the center of the circle or at the northern candle. Rites begin with a casting of the circle, in which the circle is outlined and purified, and the candles lit. A space is thus created within the circle; this is sometimes visualized as a sphere, or as a cylinder or cone. The purpose of this space is to confine healing energy until it is released.

The central portion of each meeting may celebrate the full moon, a new moon, a Sabbat or a special Wiccan ceremony. It might include healing, divination (scrying, Tarot cards, Runes, etc.), teaching, consecration of tools, discussion, or other life-affirming, nature based activities. After the major work is completed, food such as cakes and wine is eaten, and the circle is banished. Because of the increasing concern over addictions to alcohol and other drugs, many covens have replaced wine with juice, water etc.

Spell Candles for Witches

2005-02-15T12:17:00.000-08:00

If you've never held a ritual with these then you should take a look. I found a Six Candle Alar Pack which includes all 4 Elements Plus God and Goddess Candles!

They are high quality, gorgeous and have the most amazing aromas! They are made BY WICCANS and PAGANS FOR WICCANS and PAGANS - therefore they are blessed and charged with the appropriate energies. Each set also comes with full instructions and an affirmation or spell.

Old World Wisdom Blended with Today's Needs to Create Your Own Magic! These Candles are created with herbs, essential oils and related colors to help achieve your dreams. Each candle includes a beautiful uplifting blessing and message.

1) Energy-Will (Fire) Candle
Sandalwood Ginger Blend

From the center of your will, anything can be accomplished, for this is the first step on the road to manifesting your desires. After the "idea" inspired by work done with the Air candle, Energy & Will is the next step to creating your own reality. Fire is the continuing spark that burns through the blockages in the spirit.

CANDLE USE:
*Strengthens the aura and works through blockages in the creation process.
*Helps to stimulate the naval/second chakra which rule the creative/desire centers.

ASTROLOGICAL INFO:
-Optimal time to use this candle is when the Waxing Moon is in a Fire Zodiac as Aries, Leo or Saggitarius.
-Used during a Waning Moon to release blockages to your personal energy and strengthen your will.

OTHER INFO: The Element of Fire is associated with the nervous system, the sacred direction of South, the Tarot suit of Wands, Midday and Summer. To enhance your intentions, place things that bring the Element of Fire to mind next to the candle.

2) Inspiration (Air) Candle
Lavender Blend Essentials

The gentle cool breezes of Summer have inspired poets, artists, & thinkers all through the ages. Air is said to be the origin of inspiration, intuition, psychic abilities, sound & vibration. The Element of Air is a necessity in the inspirational process.

CANDLE USE:
*Through the Element of Air, connect to the universal consciousness - storehouse of all knowledge.
*Find the inspiration, wisdom & patience needed to reach your objectives. Light this candle and find your muse.
*To inspire your mental process, use other symbols of Air like, a feather, smoke, Sword tarot cards, etc. while burning your candle.

ASTROLOGICAL INFO:
-Made when the Moon is passing through an Air Sign.
-Use during a Waxing Moon when it is in the constellations of Gemini, Libra or Aquarius.

OTHER INFO: The element of Air is the sacred direction of East, Dawn and Spring. The bright blue is associated with thought and the Throat Chakra. We choose this color to assist in mental clarity and ease of communicating ones ideas through whatever form desired.

3) Emotional Balance (Water) Candle
Orange Blossom Essential Blend

Emotional Balance is found when we begin to trust our instincts & strengthen our connection with the Divine. It is this source of life that fulfills us & allows us to find Balance between all aspects of life. Water represents the sub- conscious-a place of dreams, instinct & emotions.

CANDLE USE:
*Provide energy present in the courage to explore emotions that may limit growth.
*Aid in emotional level of self-discovery, gain inner control and allow instinct to be trusted.

ASTROLOGICAL INFO:
-Pent up emotions are best released during a Waning Moon in the Zodiacs of Cancer, Scorpio or Pisces.
-Used during a Waxing Moon, help to get in touch with your true emotions around a situation.

OTHER INFO: The Element of Water is associated with the cauldron of life, representing the heart & circulatory system, the direction of West, Sunset and Autumn. The dark turquoise demonstrates that still waters run deep and cold.

4) Stability-Self (Earth) Candle
Cypress Patchouli Blend

Form a solid foundation to build your dreams upon with the Earth energies of this candle. Earth's energy gives stability, a foundation for your journey into the depths of your spirit. There you will discover the true worth of your self.

CANDLE USE:
*Self-esteem and self-worth issues
*Stability and security within the deepest self.

ASTROLOGICAL USE:
-Burning this candle during the Waxing Moon when it is in Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn will help you tap into your inner strength. As your confidence bubbles to the surface the turbulence subsides.
-Lighting this candle during the Waning Moon will help to dispel the blockages to positive self esteem.

OTHER INFO: The Element of Earth is associated with your bones and muscles, the sacred direction of North, the tarot suit of Coins, Midnight and Winter. Brown has long been associated with the rich soil of the Earth. The soil sustains life and anchors the roots of even the most giant of trees. Let the deep brown of the Earth Candle remind you to grow your own roots deeply into the Mother Earth, allowing her to stabilize and nurture you.

5) Female Energy Candle (The Moon)
Kissed with Lotus Blossoms

Become empowered with the Feminine Energies of creation and intuition. Find your voice and express the goddess within. There is power and strength within the female side of the self that many do not recognize. She is unique in her ability to simultaneously create and destroy, feeling passion on both ends of the scale. See the beauty and courage of all that is female.

CANDLE USE:
*Use to reassert the power of the Feminine Energies during the creative or intuitive process.
*Use to enhance your connection with the Feminine Energy that both men and women possess.

ASTROLOGICAL INFO:
-Made when the Moon is in an Astrological Sign with Female attributes such as Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn or Pisces.
-Virgo is particularly strong time to burn this candle for the Earth Goddess energy available.

OTHER INFO: The Female Forces candle is made to be a light silvery blue to represent the Moon. Feminine Energy is subtle in her power - she is subtlety to perfection. It is her gift to control herself without controlling others. She is intuition and inner strength - the eye of the storm.

6) Male Energy Candle (The Sun)
Vanilla Patchouli Musk Blend

The Sun brings us celebration and rejoicing everytime our life is energized with its brilliance. Become strengthened and motivated to find your true, brilliant self and celebrate life. Rejoice in the Male Forces in your life, the ultimate loving father and the way we play to learn. Challenge your limitations and master your inner knowledge.

CANDLE USE:
*Always helpful in mastering our full potential and moving beyond our self-imposed limitations.
*Use to reconnect with the Male Side of ourself which is just another key to self-mastery.

ASTROLOGICAL INFO:
-We make this candle when the Moon is in an Astrological Sign with Male attributes, such as Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, or Aquarius.
-Light this candle during one of these signs and connect with the Warrior/Merciful King within. Yes, women you have these qualities available to you also.

OTHER INFO: Yellow is color of the Sun and the color of the Solar Plexus Chakra. We chose yellow to remind us of the Sun god and his glory. The Solar Plexus is also the Fire Chakra. Both the Male Energy and Fire motivate us into active participation in our lives.

September 21 - Autumnal Equinox - Mabon or Harvest Home

2005-02-14T00:13:00.000-08:00

This day sees light and dark in balance again, before the descent to the dark times. A harvest festival is held, thanking the Goddess for giving us enough sustenance to feed us through the winter. Harvest festivals of many types still occur today in farming country, and Thanksgiving is an echo of these. One of the very important things to consider during the mabon festival is having a high quality pure annointing oil handy. You don't want to use anything that is of lesser quality.

July 31 - August Eve - Lughnasadh or Lammas

2005-02-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

This festival has two aspects. First, it is one of the Celtic fire festivals, honoring the Celtic culture-bringer and Solar God Lugh (Lleu to the Welsh, Lugus to the Gauls). In Ireland, races and games were held in his name and that of his mother, Tailtiu (these may have been funeral games). The second aspect is Lammas, the Saxon Feast of Bread, at which the first of the grain harvest is consumed in ritual loaves. These aspects are not too dissimilar, as the shamanic death and transformation of Lleu can be compared to that of the Barley God, known from the folksong "John Barleycorn". This time is also sacred to the Greek Goddess of the Moon and the Hunt, Artemis.

Once a prominent Celtic festival known as Lughnasadh, Lammas is a joyful celebration of the first harvest. In an age when crops can be imported all year round, we tend to forget just how important this time was to our ancestors -- the failure of the harvest meant starvation and death. Early August was a time to celebrate the fruits of the first harvest and work positive magic for prosperity and protection. Explore the origins, customs, and lore of Lughnasadh and learn about similar festivals around the world. Whether your just starting on the path or are an experienced Witch looking for a new perspective on this ancient festival, you will find a cornucopia of history, folklore, recipes, spells, and rituals in this book. Paperback, 276 pages.

June 21 -- Summer Solstice -- Litha or Midsummer

2005-02-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

On this day, the noon of the year and the longest day, light and life are abundant. We focus outward, experiencing the joys of plenty, tasting the first fruits of the season. In some traditions the sacred marriage of the Goddess and God is celebrated (in others, this is attributed to the springtime holidays). Rhea, the Mountain Mother of Crete, has breathed out all creation. It is also the festival of the Chinese Goddess of Light, Li.

Midsummer is one of the most ancient, widespread and joyful Pagan festivals. The Sun rises to the height of its power on the Summer Solstice, and Midsummer Eve is filled with fairy mischief and magic. The author reveals the origins and customs of this enchanting holiday with chapters on myths and lore, Midsummer magic and divination, traditional summertime treats, seasonal rituals and Midsummer herb craft.

Midsummer of the Summer Solstice will take you really deep into the traditions of this amazing holiday.

April 30 - May Eve - Beltaine

2005-02-07T15:09:00.000-08:00

As the weather heats up and the plant world burgeons, an exuberant mood prevails. Folk dance around the Maypole, emblem of fertility (the name "May" comes from a Norse word meaning "to shoot out new growth"). May 1st was the midpoint of a five-day Roman festival to Flora, Goddess of Flowers. The name "Beltaine" means "Bel's Fires"; in Celtic lands, cattle were driven between bonfires to bless them, and people leaped the fires for luck. The association in Germany of May Eve with Witches' gatherings is a memory of pre-Christian tradition. "Wild" water (dew, flowing streams or ocean water) is collected as a basis for healing drinks and potions for the year to come.

I have located a rather comprehensive collection of books that were written especially for the wiccan holidays. You can find them here.

March 21 -- Vernal Equinox -- Ostara

2005-02-04T11:47:00.000-08:00

Day and night are equal as Spring begins to enliven the environment with new growth and more newborn animals. Many people feel "reborn" after the long nights and coldness of winter. The Germanic Goddess Ostara or Eostre (Goddess of the Dawn), after whom Easter is named, is the tutelary deity of this holiday. It is she, as herald of the sun, who announces the triumphal return of life to the earth. Witches in the Greek tradition celebrate the return from Hades of Demeter's daughter Persephone; Witches in the Celtic tradition see in the blossoms the passing of Olwen, in whose footprints flowers bloom. The enigmatic egg, laid by the regenerating snake or the heavenly bird, is a powerful symbol of the emergence of life out of apparent death or absence of life.

I searched the web forever to find a CD which is related directly to the Vernal Equinox. I finally found one that was produced in 1977 called "Vernal Equinox".

First released in 1977, this recording influenced Brian Eno, whose subsequent association with Hassell formed a collaboration with 'Possible Musics'. Within these sparse but exotic textures, you can hear the vocal source of Hassell's unusual trumpet sound as he bends notes into breath-like murmurs. On the raga-like title track, Hassell weaves a long, sinewy trail across the slow percussion of David Rosenboom and Nana Vasconcelos, with a slowly-shifting synthesizer background acting like a minimalist take on a tamboura drone.

If you would like to hear samples of this music look here.

January 31 -- February Eve -- Imbolc (Oimelc) or Brigid

2005-02-02T18:10:00.000-08:00

As the days' lengthening becomes perceptible, many candles are lit to hasten the warming of the earth and emphasize the reviving of life. "Imbolc" is from Old Irish, and may mean "in the belly", and Oimelc, "ewe's milk", as this is the lambing time. It is the holiday of the Celtic Fire Goddess Brigid, whose threefold nature rules smithcraft, poetry/inspiration, and healing. Brigid's fire is a symbolic transformation offering healing, visions, and tempering. Februum is a Latin word meaning purification -- naming the month of cleansing. The thaw releases waters (Brigid is also a goddess of holy wells) -- all that was hindered is let flow at this season.

For a great annointing oil to use especially on February Eve go here.

Celebrating the Wiccan holiday - Yule (Winter Solstice)

2005-01-30T17:14:00.000-08:00

December 21 - Winter Solstice - Yule

The sun is at its nadir, the year's longest night. We internalize and synthesize the outward-directed activities of the previous summer months. Some covens hold a Festival of Light to commemorate the Goddess as Mother giving birth to the Sun God. Others celebrate the victory of the Lord of Light over the Lord of Darkness as the turning point from which the days will lengthen. The name "Yule" derives from the Norse word for "wheel", and many of our customs (like those of the Christian holiday) derive from Norse and Celtic Pagan practices (the Yule log, the tree, the custom of Wassailing, et al).

There`s just something magical about the Yuletide season, no matter where you live or who you are. As bright candlelight mingles with the smells of pine & warm cookies & we perform our yearly rituals of song & family gatherings, the spirit of peace & goodwill seems to reach the heart of even the most cynical Scrooge. In Yule, the author presents a wonderful potpourri of holiday lore from around the world & throughout history, along with fun crafts, delicious recipes -- even a calendar of celebrations for every day in December. Learn where the traditions of the season originated -- for instance, did you know that the ringing of bells was meant to drive away the demons who inhabited the darkest days of the year? That leaving cookies for Santa mirrors the old tradition of leaving a loaf of bread on the table overnight to bring prosperity in the new year? That the Yule log can be traced back to the ancient Greeks? Need a recipe for wassail or plumb pudding? Tips for your holiday party? Want to make the season special by making your own decorative crafts & gifts? Thats just a sampling of what`s inside. Best of all, this book shows that the spirit of the season is universal. However we choose to celebrate & worship, we can all join together in the spirit of peace, love & harmony at this special time of the year.

A step from the norm

2005-01-29T17:56:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to step away from the norm for a minute and say that I have a new directory for bloggers to list their blogs on. Big Blog Directory. It's free to use. I also have a page on the site that gives you access to all kinds of blog promotion tools and blog writing tools. That page is here.

Celebrating Samhain, the Wiccan Holiday

2005-01-27T15:02:00.000-08:00

The "Wheel of the Year" has eight spokes -- the four major agricultural and pastoral festivals and the four minor solar festivals of the solstices and equinoxes. In common with many ancient people, many Witches consider the day as beginning at sundown and ending at sundown the following day. For example, Samhain starts at dusk on the 31st, ending the evening of the 1st.

Samhain
October 31 - November Eve
The night lengthens and we work with the positive aspects of darkness in the increasing star - and moonlight. Many Craft traditions, following the ancient Celts, consider this the eve of the New Year (as day begins with sundown, so the year begins with the first day of Winter). It is one night when the barriers between the worlds of life and death are uncertain, allowing the ancestors to walk among the living, welcomed and feasted by their kin, bestowing the Otherworld's blessings. We may focus within ourselves to look "through the glass darkly", developing our divination and psychic skills. While working on the development of skills during this season witch's often burn incense to maintain the positive aspects of the surroundings.

The Wiccan holidays are quite involved. There is a lot to know about them. One of the better books I have found is, Celebrating the Seasons of Life: Samhain to Ostara takes a different approach to explaining the holidays by taking an in-depth look at half of the Wheel of the Year. Rather than dissecting each holiday, Ashleen's goal is to take a broader look at them, explaining how and why we celebrate each, along with how the celebration of one leads to the next. The first of two new titles from Ashleen offers a vision of the holidays we celebrate from October to March. This book covers each holiday by first giving us its history and original customs, then explaining its place in modern life. Stories are shared for each Sabbat to reconnect us with our lore and bring new meaning to current practice. Ashleen includes ideas for rituals that are ideal for practicing solitaries, covens, or Wiccan families, with special sections on what children of various ages are ready to learn about these holidays.

Personal Development of the Witch

2005-01-22T18:17:00.000-08:00

Since these ritual tools are merely the conductors of personal energies, as copper is a conductor for electrical energy, most covens provide at least some degree of training in psychic skills and healing practices to strengthen each member's ability to participate in the religious activities. Each individual decides what level of such training is useful for them. We see psychic abilities as a natural human potential, and are dedicated to developing this as well as all of our positive human potentials.

Setting up an Altar!

2005-01-18T18:47:00.000-08:00

Other important tools are the symbols on the altar which denote the "Aristotelian" Elements: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water . A pentagram or pentacle, a five-pointed star sometimes surrounded by a circle, is often used to symbolize Earth and its properties -- stability, material wealth, the body, and practical affairs. A small dish of salt or soil can be used to symbolize the Earth Element. A thurible (or censer) or a bell can be used to symbolize Air and its properties -- communications, vitality, intellect and understanding. (A sword or wand may be used to symbolize Air or Fire. A candle or small pot of fire may symbolize the element of Fire and its properties -- will, transmutation, life-force, and power. A chalice of water is used to symbolize the element of Water and its properties -- cleansing, regeneration, and emotion. In the traditions which include the element of Spirit, an ankh or quartz crystal is used to symbolize Spirit and its properties -- perfection, summation, balance, illumination and eternity.

The Tools of a Witch

2005-01-13T17:10:00.000-08:00

In both the working of magic and the creation of the sacred circle wiccans use tools to facilitate a frame of mind in which the psychic state necessary for this kind of work can be achieved. The tools are part of a complete and self-consistent symbolic system which is agreed upon by the participants and provides them with a "map" for entry into unfamiliar psychic spaces. This system, like a map, is arbitrary and not "true" in an absolute sense; it is more of a guide to a state which is ineffable and can be most clearly reached through the arts such as: poetry, music, dance, drama and "starlight" vision.

A primary ritual tool, which is owned by most Witches, is an athame or ritual knife/dagger. The athame is charged with the energy of the owner and is used as a pointer to define space and as a conductor of the owner's will and energy. One example of defining space is casting a sacred circle.

The Wiccan circle

2005-01-11T01:04:00.000-08:00

The Sacred Wiccan Circle is formed and, within it, two main activities occur: celebration, and the practice of magic. Celebration is most important at the major seasonal holy days, the Sabbats. At the time of celebration, the myths of that particular holiday are enacted in ritual drama. Singing, dancing, feasting, and revelry are all part of the festivities. On these occasions we celebrate our oneness with life on Earth. We, also, assimilate on the deepest level myths and archetypes which map and assist our own life-passages.

Esbats are smaller gatherings where magic is more often performed. These gatherings coincide with the phases of the moon. The main types of magic practiced here are: psychic healing sessions, the focus and direction of energy to achieve positive results, and work toward the individual spiritual development of the coven members. Magic is an art which requires adherence to certain principles, and a conscious direction of will toward the desired end. We believe it to be an attribute of magic that results toward which the will is directed return to the sender threefold. These principles make witches very conscientious in their use of magic.

When the teaching, celebration, or magical work is finished, the blessing of the God (and Godess) is called into food and drink which are then shared by everyone. The circle is opened, and the space is no longer consecrated.

To keep track of when magical gatherings and such occur can be quite confusing at first. I recommend the to easily help you keep track. It is a very small investment for a great reward!

The Historical Roots of Wicca

2005-01-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

The roots of the religion called Wicca, or Witchcraft, are very old, coming down to us through a variety of channels worldwide. Any general statement about Wiccan practice have exceptions. Nevertheless, the following will attempt to present a basic foundation for understanding. Some of the old practices were lost when indigenous religions encountered militant Christianity and were forced to go underground for survival. The ancient mystery religions were lost when the practice of the rites was stopped and the old oral traditions were no longer available. Parents transmitted their traditions to their children, with parts being lost and new parts created in succeeding generations. The former, as well as research into the old ways, provide a rich foundation for modern practice. Archaeological and anthropological studies of the religious practices of non-Christian cultures, the works of the Golden Dawn and other metaphysical orders, and the liberalization of anti-Witchcraft laws also contribute to the growing popularity of Wicca today!

To further your knowledge on the History is to be armed with a potentially endless base for a great ritual practice. If you would like to learn more about the history of Wicca I recommend you pick up 3 Lessons/Pleasing the Divine, Witch`s Primer by Lady Raya This book will guide you through what it means to be Wiccan and explain more of the history behind it all!

Wiccan Ceremony - Magic - and where it all started.

Rich Jerk! LOL

LMAO!! You owe it to yourself to at least see this guys site. He is a genius. His views are refreshing. His ebook is the most credible that I have seen. (I've seen many)

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Blessed Be - A Wiccan Ceremony

Blessed Be: A Wiccan Ceremony Audio CD

Modern Magick: Eleven Lessons in the High Magickal Arts

Goddess Ritual Athame

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

If the Buddha Dated: A Handbook for Finding Love on a Spiritual Path

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Reviews of If the Buddha Dated

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)

The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)

Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs

The Power Of Numbers

Be comfortable and meditate!

Why Do Some Christians Fear Witches?

Goddess of the Woods

Awakening the Buddha Within : Tibetan Wisdom for the Western World

The Encyclopedia of Wicca and Witchcraft

Book Review (Complete Idiots Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft)

Searching Inside Wicca Books

Bye Bye worries

The Witchs Pentacle Cauldron

Whats a wiccan without a wand?

Basic Candle magick and Color Correspondence

Pentacle Chalice for a Sabbat

Candles of the World

How to Scry with a Crystal Ball

Psychic Talking Boards

A Wiccan Bedspread that can be doubled as an altar cloth!

A flute for magick

To scry or not to scry

Celebrate wicca the right way!

Astral Projection - The guide to self realization

Deeper into the Wiccan ritual

Spell Candles for Witches

September 21 - Autumnal Equinox - Mabon or Harvest Home

July 31 - August Eve - Lughnasadh or Lammas

June 21 -- Summer Solstice -- Litha or Midsummer

April 30 - May Eve - Beltaine

March 21 -- Vernal Equinox -- Ostara

January 31 -- February Eve -- Imbolc (Oimelc) or Brigid

Celebrating the Wiccan holiday - Yule (Winter Solstice)

A step from the norm

Celebrating Samhain, the Wiccan Holiday

Personal Development of the Witch

Setting up an Altar!

The Tools of a Witch

The Wiccan circle

The Historical Roots of Wicca

The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells: The Ultimate Reference Book for the Magical Arts (Hardcover)
by Judika Illes

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying: The Spiritual Classic & International Bestseller; Revised and Updated Edition
by Sogyal Rinpoche, Patrick D. Gaffney, Andrew Harvey

The Elements of Ritual: Air, Fire, Water & Earth in the Wiccan Circle
by Deborah Lipp