PiiXIE Dust Magazine: Issue 4

Witchcraft

My note:

Hi I am InsatiableSugar and this is my first time writing for a magazine here on wattpad. I hope you'll like my article :)

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Are you all geared up for Halloween? Decided what your costume is going to be already? Well, if not then maybe I still might persuade to becoming a witch. As cliché as you think it may sound but you have got to admit that witches are part of the classic Halloween costume favorites. And partly they are famous for their capability to perform spells and magic.

Let's delve a little with witchcraft shall we?

The word magic was derived from the word magea which itself was derived from the Greek word magoi. Magoi's were once a group of Persian priests who studied the stars and practiced divination. There was no certain place were magic was said to start. But Ancient Egypt was considered to be its cradle. There are two types of magic: the low magic and the high magic. Low magic is often known as the natural magic or the practical magic. This started in the Middle Ages and spread, and now is still being used in some parts of the world. Low magic involves the arts of witchcraft, spell craft, hexcraft and voodoo, which makes use of herbs, amulets, wax images, and other objects combined with visualization and a chant as a magic spell or charm. On the other hand high magic, also called Ceremonial Magik, includes the need for complex rituals, invocation of spirits, and mystic sacraments. It can either be angelic or satanic depending on the intentions of the one performing. During the use of this magic the nature's power are being controlled in concurrence with spirits, using words and names of sacred gods. Up to now, Ceremonial Magic is still believed to be practiced by those who stuck with Abramelin magic and Kabbalah.

In order to be able to cast spells and make magic, one is not required to be part of a group. Although it is more powerful and effective because one could draw strength from his fellow members, one can simply do it on his own. How? There are specific things that spell makers require to have to be able to cast spells and make magic. Here are some of the significant tools that are important in making magic: 1. Altar - this is a special place set for magic. It could be lavishly carved, crafted with works of art. It should be your special consecrated tabletop where you prepare for your spells and you keep most of the tools you use such as a chalice, candles and an athame.

2. Amulets - significant because this will be the protector of the spell caster against evil influences. It can be man-made (i.e. horseshoe, a piece of jewelry with a precious stone, a piece of metal corresponding to the owner's astrological sign, and etc.) or occurred naturally (i.e. rabbit's foot, seashell and etc.)

3. Natural Amulet - is anything that the owner believes to bring luck to him. It's Mother Nature's gift to those who believe.

4. Athame - is a six inch, double-edged ritual knife. This is used to cut energy.

5. Book of Shawos (popularly known as grimoire) - the witches journal where he keeps record the spells, chants, and invocations they have done. They also write the dreams they've had and those that are important to their magic making.

6. Bowls - a very important item in the cupboard of the witch. This is where salts, water and others are usually stored.

7. Candles and burin - as we all know, candles are very significant and essential in spell casting and magic making. A burin inscribes the candle and other objects.

8. Essential oil

9. Herbs

10. Incense

11. Talismans

12. Compass

13. Broomstick

14. Cauldron

15. Wand

Here are sample Magic Spells:

• Spell on Stopping Family Arguments

What you need: Hair from the people who are squabbling, red thread, a light blue taper candle, and petals from deep-red rose.

Rub the hairs between your fingers to twist them together, and wind them round the red thread in the same way. Twine them clockwise three times round the candle, about a third of the way own, and put the candle in the centre of a pentagram made from the rose petals. When you feel the moment is right, light the candle and focus on the flamefor a moment or two, visualizing how much better life will be when harmony has been restored. Now say something along these lines:

Among those with whom I live my life,

Please send harmony to replace strife.

And let it be done, that it harm no one.

The spell is cast when the candle burns down through the thread. Now why not take the first step in making up? Pride can be hard to swallow, but the effort will probably be well worth it.

• Spell that can mend a quarrel between you and your special someone

Cast this spell at midnight after you and your lover have argued so badly that things seem to be at an end.

What you will need: Two silver pins, a red candle, any red crystal, some red flowers and a red altar cloth.

Spread the cloth on your altar. Put the candle in the middle and arrange the flowers and crystal around it. Once the opening rituals have been completed, pierce the candle with the two silver pins, one higher than the other, and light it. Focus your thoughts on your lover and when the flame reaches the first pin say aloud:

To the Spirit of Love I now attend,

Don't let our love come to an end.

And let it be done, that it harm no one.

Repeat this until the flame reaches the second pin, then say:

May (name of the person you love) and I be one again,

By the warmth of this candle flame.

And let it be done, that it harm no one. When the candle burns out bring the ritual to an end. And now for the hard part. Even if you feel you were blameless in the break-up, swallow your pride and make that telephone call. Your humility will be well rewarded.