Sunday, December 30, 2007

Gam Zu LeTovah

כ"א בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 22

The seams which construct my Wisdom Casting Cloth tell more. The cloth inside-out initially (as shown in the graphic) consisted of a seamless folded side and 2 3/4 internally seamed sides, forming the Hebrew letter beit (ב). The small area left open at the top of the cloth (to turn the square outside-in) during the initial sewing represents the "foot also" (גם) behind the beit (in the opposite "dimension").

The material turned outside-in to complete the seam forms a mem-sofit (ם), thereby closing the "open side" of the beit seamlessly (see Shalshelet HaKabbalah) with a fold.

Taken together, my Wisdom Casting Cloth fully symbolizes "closing of the north side of the letter beit and it's transformation into a final closed mem", complete rectification of free will, unification of free will with Divine Will, and the arrival of messianic consciousness.

Forming the word בם, my Wisdom Casting Cloth "also" symbolizes the entire Torah, from the beginning (ב) of the Written Torah to the end (ם) of the Oral Torah.

With a gematria of 42 (בם), my Wisdom Casting Cloth "also" symbolizes the 42-letter Divine name known as Ana BeKoach.

The actions of turning the cloth "outside-in" and "inside-out" "also" symbolize nun hafucha.

Saturday, December 29, 2007

Wisdom Casting Cloth

כ"א בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 22

Today is my Hebrew birthday. For my special day, beginning during the planetary hour of Saturn and completing during the planetary hour of Jupiter, with the waning (descending) gibbous moon 62% (ווים) full, I made my Wisdom Casting Cloth upon which I will make magic with my Ogham staves. When not in use, my staves will rest within the cloth, tied up like a bag with a 20" brown satin ribbon.

My own handmade cloth looks like the one shown. Of very soft brown suede, the seams are hand sewn, the symbols and lines drawn with dragon's blood ink, and the diagonals made using the straight edge of a broomstick.

An 18" by 36" rectangle was folded into an 18" by 18" square. The "square" turned inside out and completed of seams measured 16.75" by 17.5" for a total area of 293.125 square inches. The value of 293 is the gematria of בארץ, "in the land", and pertains to Keter-Malchut. The value of 125 is the gematria of יפלה, "differentiates", and pertains to the ability to distinguish between different states of reality.

The square of the cloth symbolizes the Middle World, ha'Emtsa.

The inner square (Midhe) is comprised of 7-7.2" lines and symbolizes focus or the powers of concentration, memory, recognition, and sensitivity to meaning.

The two superimposed X's (Cath) in the northern position symbolize friction or resistance (left pillar).

The western spiral curl (Fis) symbolizes enlightenment or expansion (right pillar).

The eastern grid (Blath) symbolizes harvest or synthesis (middle pillar).

The southern base to base triangles (Seis) symbolize balance or perfected will (keter-malchut).

More.

Saturday, December 22, 2007

Garden Of Pomegranates

י"ד בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 15

New addition to my bookshelf - Garden Of Pomegranates: Skrying On The Tree Of Life by Israel Regardie

As described at Llewellyn's online bookstore - "When Israel Regardie wrote A Garden of Pomegranates in 1932, he designed it to be a simple yet comprehensive guidebook outlining the complex system of the Qabalah and providing a key to its symbolism. Since then it has achieved the status of a classic among texts on the Hermetic Qabalah. Now, Chic Cicero and Sandra Tabatha Cicero-Golden Dawn adepts and personal friends of the late Regardie-have made the book even more useful for today's occult students with full annotations, critical commentary and explanatory notes."

Mirror Magic

י"ד בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 15
Motzi Shabbat Yule

My 6" diameter, 1" deep concave, 1/4" thick skrying mirror is handblown, handrolled and double layered deep black glass fused with a clear glass layer over the top surface. The back surface is finished and the edges naturally softened by the kiln melt process.

A concave mirror is "where a parallel beam of light becomes a convergent beam, whose rays intersect in the focus of the mirror." (Wiki)

When in use, my black mirror rests upon an 8" X 8" square black skrying pillow.

When not in use, my mirror is wrapped with a 42" X 42" square dark navy Celtic paisley ("clearing") print pure silk scarf, placed upon the pillow, and contained within a 9.5" X 9.5" square, 4.5" deep, Tree of Life with Celtic knotwork wooden chest. The volume of the chest is 406.125 cubic inches. The value 406 is the gematria of בקדש, "in holiness", of האת, "the sign", of לשלום, "of peace", and of אתה, containing the mystery of all the permutations and cyclings of the letters of the Jewish-Hebrew aleph-beit. The value 125 is the gematria of החזקה, "the strong", of גבעים, "cups" and of יפלה, "differentiates". The value of 406 pertains to the Unity of Atzilut. The value of 125 pertains to the Creation Power of Beriyah. Taken together, the value of 406 + 125 = 531, which is the gematria of לאשר, meaning "of happiness", "of successful straightforward progression", "of the tree of blessing", and "of well trodden steps".

The underside of the chest's lid is engraved with my Jewish name in Hebrew letters and my Celtic name in Ogham letters. The inside bottom of the chest is engraved with all 48 (= יובל) letters of the Hebrew (including the otiot sofiot and the 4-shin) and Ogham alphabets.

The deep black layer of the mirror pertains to an integral fusion of Yetzirah (the universe of Formation) and the Divine Essence (Atzmut). The clear layer of the mirror pertains to the clarity of Malchut, itself integrally fused and supported by the Divine Essence revealed in the deep blackness of my Magic Mirror.

First, I chose the tools which spoke to me. Then, I explored the dimensional correspondences to discover meanings which reveal the deep Guiding Essence supporting my endeavors as a Jewitch.

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Tiferet & Yesod: Feda Of Reunification

ה' בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 6

Pictured here are my Ogham staves handcrafted in the United Kingdom from the naturally fallen branch of an Alder tree. Pyrographed into each stave is an Ogham letter (fid, singular; feda, plural).

Alder wood is represented by the fid called fern, related to Welsh gwern (alder tree). The letter value of fern corresponds to "F", "V" and "vav".

Protection. The keyword corresponding to fern is protection. Word oghams related to fern pertain to shielding, guarding and sheltering.

Healing, Harmony & Peace. The Druids believed Alder-fern to link the male and female principles, to create balance, harmony (Tiferet) and peace (Yesod of Zer Anpin, corresponding to tzadi) between these two "opposite" forces. This particular meaning of fern-Alder also relates to the Hebrew letter vav and to the healing re-unification of Tiferet-Yesod through one letter, fern.

Truth & Illumination. Fern-Alder is also a letter of divination, opening doorways into the mystical Faery realm, mental prowess, illumination with truth and higher spirituality. Similarly, the letter vav contains the meanings of illumination (through aur yashar) and truth (through Yesod of Zer Anpin).

Thus, the Ogham letter fern is a synthesis of the Hebrew letters vav and tzadi. There is no "tz" sound among the 20 feda of the Ogham.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Condition Spell

ג' בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 4

There is a well-known idea in mystical-magical teachings that personal items and body fluids contain some of the psycho-magnetic energy of and can be used to work good or harm on the individual to whom they belong.

There is an easy solution to this seeming problem. Withdraw any personal energetic magnetism from everything that leaves, has left, or will leave one's possession in any way, place or time that comes into the possession of another with ill or harmful intent. In other words, cast the condition spell that one's energy becomes automatically withdrawn (through the kavanah of the condition spell) by default from one's lost, discarded or stolen items or body fluids.

In this way, a disposed kleenex, for example, is only a dirty kleenex in the hands of one's enemies, while at the same time, the keepsakes of one's family and friends remain potent connective devices.

Sunday, December 09, 2007

Secret Of Shalhevet

א' בטבת תשס"ח
Grael 2

1 part midsummer's sabbat balefire ash
1 part shabbat incense ash
1 part fine gold sparkles
1 part dark amber resin
1 pinch Dead Sea salt (Israel)
1 pinch Flower of the Ocean (hand-harvested Celtic sea salt)

Living Magic

כ"ט בכסלו תשס"ח
Grael 1

New addition to my bookshelf - Living Magical Arts by R. J. Stewart

"Living Magical Arts is founded upon the author's practical experience of the Western Magical Traditions, and contains specific teachings from within a living and long established initiatory line of British, French, and Russian esoteric tradition. Living Magical Arts offers a new and clear approach to the philosophy and practice of magic for the 21st century, stripping away the accumulated nonsense found in many repetitive publications, and re-stating the art for contemporary use. This book offers a coherent illustrated set of magical techniques for individual or group use, leading to profound changes of consciousness and subtle energy. Magical arts are revealed as an enduring system of insight into human and universal consciousness, combining a practical spiritual psychology (long predating materialist psychology) with an effective method of relating to the physical world. Many of the obscure aspects of magical work are clarified, with insights into themes such as the origins of magical arts, working with subtle forces, partaking of esoteric traditions, liberating sexual energies, magical effects upon the world of nature, and the future potential and development of creative magic."

Wisdom In The Ogham Letters

כ"ט בכסלו תשס"ח
Grael 1

New addition to my bookshelf - Ogam: Weaving Word Wisdom by Erynn Rowan Laurie

"Ogam: Weaving Word Wisdom is a breakthrough in ogam divination and magical studies. Rather than working from the commonly known tree alphabet paradigm, Erynn Rowan Laurie takes us back to the roots of each letter's name, exploring its meanings in the context of Gaelic language and culture. Like the Norse runes, each letter is associated with an object or a concept -- "sulfur", "a bar of metal", "terror". These letters are deeply enmeshed in a web of meaning both cultural and spiritual, lending power and weight to their symbolism. With two decades of experience with the ogam and over thirty years of working with divination, Erynn offers insights into the many profound meanings hidden in the ogam letters and their lore. She explains each letter in context and shows how to expand the system in new and innovative ways while acknowledging and maintaining respect for ogam's traditional language and culture. In this book, you will find ways to use the ogam for divination, ideas on incorporating ogam into ritual, discussions of how ogam relates to Celtic Reconstructionist Paganism, and instructions for creating your own set of ogam feda or letters for your personal use."

Sunday, December 02, 2007

Real Magic & Psychic Self-Defense

כ"ב בכסלו תשס"ח
Shamash 24

New additions to my bookshelf: Real Magic by Isaac Bonewits

"From poltergeists to the latest in parapsychological research, from tantra to tarot, you will investigate the laws, uses, history and manifestations of real magic. Bonewits brings magic out of the dark ages and into the computer age in a spellbinding investigation that will captivate believers and non-believers alike."

Psychic Self-Defense by Dion Fortune

After finding herself the subject of a powerful psychic attack, Dion Fortune wrote this detailed instruction manual for safeguarding yourself against paranormal malevolence. Fortune explores the elusive psychic element in mental illness and, more importantly, details the methods, motives, and physical aspects of psychic attack, and how to overcome this energy."

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Ancient Wisdom Master Grimoire

י'ד בכסלו תשס"ח
Shamash 16

New addition to my bookshelf - Ancient Wisdom, The Master Grimoire by Pat Kirven Sawyer

"An excellent magickal herbal designed to help you learn about herbs and more. The Master Grimoire is the definitive magickal cookbook with thousands of recipes to keep cauldrons bubbling with delight. The is the definitive compendium of herbs, oils, and incenses for ritual ingredients, baths, tinctures, perfumes, sachets. Magickal applications include candle magick technique and annointing oil, powders, potions, floorwashes, talismans, charms and enchantments. A treasure trove from across time and across magickal paths including esoteric oral traditions and Mystery Schools. Remedies with origins as Druid, Enochian, Mayan, Gypsy, Santeria, Strega, Golden Dawn, Christian, Greek, Egyptian, Wiccan, Left Hand and more offer formulas for healing, hexing, manifestation, magnetism, banishing, protection, binding, love, sex, money, power, astral travel, divination, good fortune, legal matters, business, career, power, uncrossing, psychic vision and many more. Novelties, curios old and new. Secrets light and dark."

Friday, November 23, 2007

Year Of The Witch

י'ד בכסלו תשס"ח
Shamash 16

The first day of the 13 months on the witches' lunar year calendar occurs on the first new moon before Samhain. The 13th month - Alban Heruin - occurs every 2 to 3 years. The 13 months of the Witches' Year (with civil dates running through the year 2007-8) are:

Phasma Priscus (days of ancient spirits): 10/11-11/8
Shamash (days of the witch gods): 11/9-12/8
Grael (days of Earth Dragon): 12/9-1/7
Imbolgen (days of reclamation): 1/8-2/5
Keolwulf (days of the Old Ones): 2/6-3/6
Raven (days of air): 3/7-4/4
Annwyn (days of Avalon): 4/5-5/4
Mab (days of Faerie): 5/5-6/2
Alban Heruin (days of the Druid): 6/3-7/1
Faunus (days of Pan): 7/2-7/31
Lugnasadh (days of Lug): 8/1-8/29
Belz (days of fire): 8/30-9/27
Blodlessing (days of harvest rites): 9/28-10/27

Note: Like Jewish calendar "days", Witch calendar "days" begin at sundown.

Related entries:
Intercalating Time
Time Witchery
Akkadian Names Of The Jewish Months

UPDATE: Witch's Calendar For 2008 and 2009

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Witch's Kabbalah

י'ג בכסלו תשס"ח

New addition to my bookshelf - The Temple Of High Witchcraft by Christopher Penczak.

"The Craft meets high magick in The Temple of High Witchcraft, the much-anticipated fourth volume in Christopher Penczak's award-winning series of Witchcraft teachings. Penczak invites Witches to continue their spiritual evolution by exploring the ceremonial arts. Learn how these two traditions intersect in history and modern magickal practice. Penczak introduces Qabalah and discusses each sphere of the Tree of Life, in addition to ritual, path-working, and other important concepts. In twelve lessons, you'll discover how to integrate these ideas and practices into your Craft. Following the traditional year and a day timeframe, this training program culminates with creating your own "reality map" of spiritual experience and truths."

It will be interesting to see how another person integrates kabbalah and witchcraft.

Time Witchery

י'ג בכסלו תשס"ח

My new Spiral Goddess athame is made of solid high quality Brittania pewter, with a double edged stainless steel blade. Athame hilt is a 3-dimensional archetypal goddess figure with the symbolic spiral on her belly. Hilt is heavy weight, highly polished pewter, & has a very comfortable feel when gripped.

Pewter in Hebrew is נתך. From the similarly spelled shoresh, נתך means to "dissolve and pour". With a gematria of 470, נתך has the same gematria as "time", עת.

Thus, my new athame is an instrument for dissolving, pouring out and directing the essence of time.

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Intercalating Time

ח' בכסלו תשס"ח

Two new additions to my bookshelf: Understanding The Jewish Calendar by Rabbi Nathan Bushwick

"Understanding the Jewish Calendar presents the scientific and mathematical ideas of the Rishonim on the calendar in a clear and simply terminology and form for the modern reader. The principles are all explained step by step, and the calculations are worked out and explained so that they can be understood without previous background in the subject.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part deals with astronomy and serves as an introduction to the principles of the calendar. The second part explains the actual principles and calculations of the calendar."


Seasons Of The Witch Primer by Victoria David Danann

"Magick as Art, Skill and Craft. Companion guide to Seasons of the Witch calendars and planner systems. Victoria David Danann outlines the magickal system and philosophy that serves as foundation to the details of the witch's calendar. Reference section with alphabetical listing of power days, their meanings and explanations, suitable to keep in your planner. This primer serves as a guide to maximize the results of your castings. Includes answers to frequently asked questions, the list of power energies with explanations, tarot and color correspondences and a reference section."

Astrology In Jewish Thought

ח' בכסלו תשס"ח

New addition to my bookshelf: Above the Zodiac: Astrology In Jewish Thought by Rabbi Matityahu Glazerson

"Above the Zodiac: Astrology in Jewish Thought uncovers the profound connection between Jewish mysticism and classic astrology by citing the many references scattered throughout Jewish literature to the influence of the stars on human destiny. Rabbi Matityahu Glazerson gives a month-by-month rendering of Jewish astrology according to kabbalah, summarizing the complex system of elements in Jewish thought that correlates to each astrological sign."

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Kabbalistic Crystal

ח' בכסלו תשס"ח

New addition to my bookshelf - Crystal Balls & Crystal Bowls: Tools For Ancient Scrying & Modern Seership by Ted Andrews

"In today's world of rapid change, we need every tool we can get to bring us back to a healthful center. Some of the most beneficial devices for this are the sphere and the bowl made of crystal. Popular author Ted Andrews divulges all the secrets of these entrancing instruments in Crystal Balls & Crystal Bowls.

These two tools are some of the most potent avenues to higher states of consciousness. Their use in healing, activating creativity, foretelling the future, and balancing the human energy system are timeless. Just look at a bit of what you will learn in Crystal Balls & Crystal Bowls:

    Step-by-step guidelines for developing clairvoyance with the crystal ball

    A variety of methods for crystal gazing

    Ways to divine with water

    Guidelines for enhancing crystal gazing with candles, fragrances, and flower and gem elixirs

    Uses and effects of different types of crystal balls

    Methods of healing with the crystal ball

    Techniques to attune to spirit guides, angels, and devas

    The use of sacred sound

    Instruction on inducing altered states of consciousness and astral projection

    Explorations of times: past, present, and future with the crystal ball

    Qabalistic scrying rituals

Now, anyone can utilize crystal balls and crystal bowls in some of their most prized roles. Crystal Balls & Crystal Bowls takes these mighty instruments of divination out of the realm of the occult and places them in the hands of the people for personal empowerment.

No matter how you use these tools, for divination, meditation, healing, or discovering the secrets of sound, this book is a must."

Shewstone

ח' בכסלו תשס"ח

New addition to my bookshelf - Crystal Ball: Stones, Amulets and Talismans For Power, Protection And Prophecy by Sybil Ferguson

"Scrying, the art of divining by looking into an appropriate surface and receiving visions, has been used by healers, shamans, and witch doctors since ancient times. In Crystal Ball, Sibyl Ferguson offers a concise and accurate account of the history and art of using crystal balls, or "shewstones" as they were called in the bible, as tools to improve daily life. This revised and expanded edition includes additional guidance for care of crystals and gemstones as well as information on using them for healing and protection."

Real Energy

ח' בכסלו תשס"ח

New addition to my bookshelf - Real Energy: Systems, Spirits, And Substances to Heal, Change, And Grow by Phaedra and Isaac Bonewits

"Energy. Psi, prana, mana, chi, divine power, the tao, reiki, or "vibes," every system of magic and mysticism calls the energies that power its practices by different names. Whether questioning the power of prayer or a healing session with a Reiki master an underlying question exists of whether this energy is all the same or if they exist as distinctly different "wavelengths" of some universal power?

When New Agers, occultists, spiritual healers, metaphysicians, artists, and Neopagans talk about the "energies" they use, what do they actually mean? Now, for the first time, a single book discusses the vocabulary, magic, metaphysics, art, and science of energy from a multi-model, 21st century perspective.

Lessons included will cover: • Physical vocabulary of energy • Metaphysical vocabulary of energy • How the laws of magic affect energy • The Importance of Focus

Real Energy will then take these lessons to the next level giving you direction on how to understand and begin working with different energies. Half of the book is dedicated to showing you how to work with specific energies, including: the four elements, crystals, plants, animals, your own body, nature spirits, ancestors, and deities to accomplish your goals and enhance life experiences. Specific energy work practices are also covered, including: Reiki, The Huna System, working with "Pure" ESP and PK, Feng Shui, and the Tantra System.

With tips from scientists, artists, magicians, and spiritual teachers, Real Energy will give you a solid introduction to both the theory and practice of energy work."

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Israeli Black String Chamsa

כ'ט בחשון תשס"ח

My "kabbalah" bracelet is from Israel, made of black leather, and comes with a chamsa charm. הּ

Saturday, November 03, 2007

Sheva Kafulot Of The Expansive Hexagram

כ'ג בחשון תשס"ח

The double letters (sheva kafulot) of the Hebrew aleph-beit correspond to the 7 directions in space: up-down, west-east and south-north. Directional points on the hexagram are assigned according to the Gra as described in Sefer Yetzirah 4:4.

The sheva kafulot of the shabbat pentacle together with the sheva kafulot of the expansive hexagram represent the inside-out, outside-in actions of nun hafucha.

Sheva Kafulot Of The Shabbat Pentacle

כ'ב בחשון תשס"ח

The double letters (otiot hakafulot) of the Hebrew aleph-beit correspond to the 7 directions in space: up-down, west-east and south-north. Directional points on the pentagram are assigned according to the Zohar (Shemot, Va'Era). The "up" point is unitive in nature. The "down area" is multiplicative in nature. Thus, the form of the pentagram and the letter kaf (כ) correspond to "up", and the circle and the letter pei (פ) correspond to "down".

Sheva Kafulot
kaf כ - pei פ - tav ת - beit ב - reish ר - gimel ג - dalet ד

Examine with them, and probe with them, make each thing stand on its essence ... Sefer Yetzirah 4:5

From here on go out and calculate that which the mouth cannot speak and the ear cannot hear ... Sefer Yetzirah 4:16

Related entry: Sheva Kafulot Of The Expansive Hexagram

Otiot HaShimush Of The Wise Pentacle

כ'ב בחשון תשס"ח

Elemental points of the pentagram shown are those according to the Zohar (Shemot, Va'Era). Otiot ha-shimush (prefix letters of the Hebrew aleph-beit), central letter ה (in the pentagon-upside down house form of the centre) and encompassing letter ב (in the closed circular form of rectified consciousness) were assigned according to kabbalistic correspondences as described in the teachings of R' Yitzchak Ginsburgh.

Otiot Ha-Shamush
kaf כ - mem מ - lamed ל - shin ש - vav ו

The House (Ha-Beit)
hei ה - beit ב

Through wisdom the House is built ... Proverbs 24:3

So know thou wisdom to be unto thy soul; if thou hast found it, then shall there be a future, and thy hope shall not be cut off ... Proverbs 24:14

Otiot Sofiot Of The Expressive Pentacle

כ'ב בחשון תשס"ח

Elemental points of the pentagram shown are those according to the Zohar (Shemot, Va'Era). Otiot sofiot (final letters of the Hebrew aleph-beit), central letter ה (in the form of the inner pentagon) and encompassing letter ס (in the form of the circle) were assigned according to kabbalistic correspondences as described in the teachings of R' Yitzchak Ginsburgh.

The Otiot Sofiot
kaf ך - mem ם - nun ן - tzadi ץ - pei ף

The Center & The Circle
hei ה + samech ס => a double portion of equanimity

She who does not possess such equanimity shows herself to be of the "mixed multitude" ... R' Yitzchak Ginsburgh

Friday, November 02, 2007

Craftworking With Vintage Beads

כ'ב בחשון תשס"ח

I've started collecting vintage beads (like the one shown), ribbons, natural feathers and other special objects to make handcrafted unique herb and spell bottles. My bottles will be very "earthy" - shades of earthtones spiced with color at times. Woodsy.

I'm not really drawn alot to metalware - only sparingly. One exception to my avoidance of metalware is this Abby Willowroot "tree of life" herb bowl. My witchware and botanical inventory is growing nicely.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Vintage Nibs For Craftwork Quillmaking

י'ו בחשון תשס"ח

I've purchased some vintage nibs and ferrules for making unique handmade quills for my craftwork. Here are 3 of the nibs I've collected so far. I'm going to find so much absolute joy in quillmaking using vintage nibs.



Klipat Nogah Quill Pen

י'ה בחשון תשס"ח

The exquisite handmade feather shades of grey quill pen I've chosen for raising up sparks craftworking. It features two black and white barred wild turkey wing feathers, and two gray Pilgrim goose feathers. Soft, smoky-colored rabbit fur wraps around the entire base of the handle, and a beautiful silvery-black hematite (see below) stone falls gently from its silver-tone wire cradle. Smooth black wrap and a vintage, unused silver-tone Roeder Kugelzack writing nib finishes off my pen, measuring approximately 13" long overall.



Worn through the ages as an amulet against bleeding, hematite is also known as the "blood stone." Native American folklore states that war paint made from hematite would make one invincible during battle. Hematite is also used to balance out emotions and energies between the body, mind and spirit, helps dissolve negativity, and aids in memory enhancement.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Binah's Brew

ט' בחשון תשס"ח

Here is a herbal recipe for protection and exorcism of negativity with which to cleanse one's "place", brought together with the waxing gibbous moon 67% full [1], during the planetary hour of the moon. The time of the moon operates on a 19-year cycle. The nineteenth letter of the aleph-beit is kuf (ק).

Mix the herbs together within a consecrated vessel. Sprinkle the mixture in the place to cleanse and raise up the sparks which dwell in hiding there.

1 part lobelia
1 part nettle
1 part mullein
1 part woodruff
1 part white willow
1 part witch grass
1 part angelica

Footnote:

[1] 67 is the gematria of Binah (בינה). There are 7 herbal ingredients in this recipe. The sum of all squares from 1 to 7 is 140, where 140 = 67 X 73, where 73 is the gematria of Chochmah. The 7 ingredients move with the power of Chochmah, brough down through Binah.

Friday, October 19, 2007

Wand Of The Epiphany

ז' בחשון תשס"ח

My simple wand looks like the one pictured. I harvested it last winter as it soaked in the snow near the lilac bush that grows right outside the window of the room I had as a little girl (and during the time of the epiphany).

As a snow-soaked water-oriented instrument of the earth, my wand carries a powerful synthesis of earth and water elemental energies. This powerful energy is represented by the Hebrew letter mem (מ, ם). Through mem (see link), my wand has the following correspondences:

Concept: The springing up of wisdom from the well of the superconscious.

Meaning: Water; a perfect imperfection.

Shape: A reservoir, with a slight opening in its lower left corner. The final mem: A completely enclosed reservoir.

Number: 40.

Space: Earth.

Time: Winter.

Soul: Lower torso, specifically the abdomen.

Quality: Love expressing itself like water.

Archetype: Mashiach ben David.

Channel: From netzach to hod.

Made from lilac wood, my wand has further correspondences to feminine power, Venus and again, the element of water. It's magical properties include protection and exorcism of negativity and evil. In other words, it functions to guard the integrity of the energy it directs.

It has no adornments other than the magical carvings I have made into it. Measuring 10 and 3/8 inches long from point to point, the wood of the slender instrument is kept supple by treating it periodically with Feminine Clarity oil.

For more on my wand, see Sod Ha-Ibbur, Turning History at Walking On Fire.

Sunday, October 14, 2007

8 Night Crystal Consecration

ג' בחשון תשס"ח

8 Night Ritual Preparation Of New Crystal Ball

Using two squares of brown, earth colored or natural cotton or linen cloth, wrap the crystal ball in the first cloth.

Over 8 successive nights, in the second cloth, sprinkle a previously prepared herbal blend (into all previous additions as nights proceed), wrap with it over the wrapped crystal ball and place it centrally on the altar (with other standard ritual elements). Place Jewitch hexagram-pentacle like a kippah upon it.

Night 1 - purification, exorcism of negative influences and protection
1 part vervain
1 part vetivert
1 part witch grass
1 part amber
1 part rosemary
1 part elder flower
1 part lobelia
1 part galangal
1 part dragon's blood
1 part woodruff
Statements of command - Be removed all negativity. Be exorcised of ill will. Be protected from all harm.

Night 2 - lock-opening
1 part lotus
1 part black sesame
Statements of command - Be open the mysteries of joy. Be open the paths of wisdom. Be open the gates of understanding. Be open the way of knowledge. Be open the fullness of beauty. Be open the cauldron of clarity.

Night 3 - fidelity
1 part pomegranate
1 part scullcap
1 part elder flower
Statement of command - Be faithful and true.

Night 4 - healing, health, peace and harmony
1 part benzoin
1 part heal-all
1 part scullcap
1 part burdock
1 part mullein
1 part nettle
1 part thyme
1 part balm of gilead
2 parts passion flower
Statements of command - Be healed. Be healthy. Be vital with wellness, harmony and peace.

Night 5 - divination and psychospiritual awareness
2 parts pomegranate
1 part broom
1 part damiana
1 part orris root
1 part angelica
1 part dandelion root
1 part mugwort
1 part flax seeds
1 part uva ursa
1 part marigold
1 part wormwood
Statement of command - Bestow clarity, insight, wisdom, understanding and knowledge.

Night 6 - strengthen spirituality and raise vibrations
1 part myrrh
1 part frankincense
1 part sandalwood
Statements of command - Be strong. Be strong. Be strong.

Night 7 - happiness and joy
1 part saffron
1 part witchgrass
1 part gall nut
1 part vanilla bean
Statements of command - Manifest and reveal joy. Break out with happiness. Rest content.

Night 8 - empower
1 part ginger root
1 part mugwort
1 part cinnamon
1 part saffron
Statement of command - Be empowered.

Night 9 - Night of rest. First night covered in cleansed, dedicated sphere stand on altar.

Night 10 - May now be ritually used.

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Carved Elegance

א' בחשון תשס"ח

For my new healing quartz crystal ball (shown here), I purchased this carved stand of oriental wood with a rosewood finish. It's simple, yet elegant.

Friday, October 12, 2007

Perfect Imperfection

א' בחשון תשס"ח

I purchased my crystal ball today. My 5 1/4" diameter pure quartz crystal healing sphere with veils, inclusions, rainbows and "depth". Peaceful.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Samhain Mulled Cider

כ'ט בתשרי תשס"ח

Recipe at Moonshadows.

2 litres of sweet apple cider
½ litre fresh orange juice
½ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp ginger
Cinnamon sticks and orange slices to float in the pot.

"In a large pan or cauldron if you have one available for cooking, combine the apple cider, orange juice, nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger. Simmer slowly on low heat for about 15 minutes. Take care that the cider does not boil. Add the cinnamon sticks and orange slices and served whilst still warm. You can refrigerate any leftover mulled cider, it's nice cold as well."

Monday, October 08, 2007

Black Mirror

(My black mirror.)

כ'ז בתשרי תשס"ח

Black mirrors are not only useful for skrying. Other ritual uses for a black mirror include:

- during spellcrafting
- to direct energy
- as a meditative tool

When not in use, as with a crystal sphere, keep your black mirror covered. Never let anyone else use or tinker with your black mirror, as this may interfere with the effectiveness of the tool. If this does occur, clear and recharge it according to your tradition.

Saturday, October 06, 2007

Crystal Caves

כ'ד בתשרי תשס"ח

A witch chooses her unique healing crystal ball with the same tender loving care with which an etrog is chosen for sukkot. A healing crystal ball is not just a crystal ball. And a sukkot etrog is not just an etrog. Exquisite distinguishing love goes into choosing them. It's bashert.

Cover with a ritual cloth when not in use.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Making Combustible Incense

Basic Materials Needed:

*powdered wood (sandalwood, red sandalwood, cedar, etc.)
*benzoin sumatra resin
*orris root
*gum tragacanth (gum arabic can be substituted, but about twice as much arabic as tragacanth will be needed and drying time will be longer)
*salt petre/potassiun nitrate
*water, spring or distilled
*fragrant material (herbs and/or oils, resins not recommended)
*two bowls, one for water and one for mixing
*a stirring implement
*mortar and pestle, coffee mill or grain mill (for grinding ingredients to a fine powder)
*measuring spoons
*small kitchen scale
*wood or bamboo sticks (for stick incense)

Procedure:

Step 1
Grind ingredients (if not already powdered) into as fine a powder as possible.

Step 2
Mix together base ingredients.

6 parts wood
2 parts benzoin sumatra
1 part orris root

Add 3-5 parts of fragrant herb incense scent mixture you want to use (prepared from recipe of choice) to the base.

Step 3
Add gum tragacanth to the base mixture. You will want between 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of tragacanth per 2 teaspoons of incense mixture.

Step 4
Weigh incense mixture on the scale. Measure out 10% by weight of potassium nitrate. An approximation:

One Tablespoon of potassium nitrate powder weighs about 20 grams
1/2 Tablespoon of potassium nitrate weighs about 10 grams
One Teaspoon of potassium nitrate weighs a little more than 6 1/2 grams
1/2 Teaspoon of potassium nitrate weighs a little more than 3 1/4 grams
1/4 teaspoon of potassium nitrate weighs a little more than 1 1/2 grams
1/8 teaspoon of potassium nitrate weighs a little more than 3/4 grams
So, if you have 20 grams of base, set aside 2 grams of potassium nitrate; if you have 10 grams use 1 gram, etc.

Step 5
Take 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of water for every 3 teaspoons of incense mixture and place water in a bowl. Disolve the potassium nitrate in the water completely.

Step 6* (cones)
Add the water and potassium nitrate solution to dry ingredients. Add any oils you plan to use at this time. 5-10 drops, combined, should be more than enough. Mix the ingredients into a sticky dough (it is best to do this with your hands).

Step 7 (cones)
To make cones, simply take small potions of the incense dough and shape it -- take care that you do not make the cones too thick. Be sure to press the bottom of each cone down onto a flat surface to ensure it will stand.

Step 6* (sticks)
To make stick incense, instead of adding your solution to the dry ingredients, add any oils (5-10 drops combined) to dry ingredients and mix well.

Step 7 (sticks)
Take your sticks and dip them, one at a time, into the water solution and then roll them in the dry ingredients so that the incense adheres to the stick. Set each stick aside to dry for 5-10 minutes (stand them upright by sticking in a ball of clay), then repeat the procedure until the stick achieve the desired thickness.

Step 8
Allow incense to dry. Sticks will most likely dry overnight, but may need to dry longer. Cones will take at least overnight, 24 hours or so is recommended. If after 24 hours they are not dry, something went wrong. You can easily tell when sticks are dry... generally touching them will tell you. Cones however, may be dry on the outside and still be wet inside. To tell if a cone is dry, squeeze the largest end lightly in your fingers. If it holds its shape, it should be dry. It the incense crumbles, you can test to see if it is dry and you will know that next time you want to add more Gum Tragacanth to your mixture.

Recipe/Procedure Source: Buddhamind

Friday, September 14, 2007

Cauldron Of Creation Incense

ג' בתשרי תשס"ח

My newest original incense recipe, Cauldron Of Creation:

5 parts frankincense
5 parts myrrh
3 parts white willow bark
2 parts dandelion root
2 parts orris root
2 parts damiana
1 part lotus root
1 part galangal root
1 part whole ground pomegranate
1 part mullein
1 part broom
1 part heal all
1 part balm of gilead
1/2 part lobelia
1/2 part acacia
1/2 part saffron

per ounce of dry ingredients:
5 drops mugwort oil
5 drops dragon's blood
1 drop hyssop
1 drop sandalwood
1 drop cinnamon bark
1 drop Feminine Clarity

Compound in a black vessel on the night of the Dark Moon, preferably in autumn or winter. Store in a warm place (like a herb cupboard) in an airtight dark jar for 28 days to 3 months prior to consecrating and using ritually.

Saturday, September 08, 2007

Medicinal Hawthorne Berries


כ"ה באלול תשס"ז

I'm seeing red everywhere today - red berries, that is.

From Herbal Extracts Plus, on the cardiotonic effects of red Hawthorne berries:

Hawthorne Berry is a wonderful and trusted cardiac tonic that is used to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and significantly enhance blood circulation to the heart and brain. It is used to strengthen the heart and relieve angina, myocarditis (inflamed heart) and arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).

Hawthorne Berry is an excellent cardio-tonic that supports good heart health and protects it in a variety of ways. It is thought to be especially effective in the beginning stages of heart disease, as well as speeding up the recovery time after a heart attack. It is also believed to strengthen a weak heart muscle associated with age, relieve pressure and tightness of the chest, ease angina and myocarditis (inflammation of the heart), as well as mild cardiac arrhythmia. The bioflavonoids found in Hawthorne interact with key enzymes in the heart to increase the pumping force of the heart muscle and eliminate arrhythmia. Hawthorne is also characterized as having positive inotropic (affecting muscle contraction) effects leading to an increase in heart rate. Although the Commission E no longer recognizes this use (due only to lack of clinical studies), Hawthorn Berry preparations have traditionally been shown to combat angina, a condition resulting from insufficient blood flow to the heart muscle.

Good heart health is further supported by Hawthorne's rich flavonoids, which are thought to dilate and open up the blood vessels (as a vasodilator), allowing oxygen-rich blood to get to the heart and reduce the risk of a heart attack. It is thought that Hawthorne causes direct dilation of smooth muscle in coronary vessels thereby lowering their resistance and increasing blood flow.

Hawthorne berries are also useful for the treatment of arthritis, osteoporosis, ADD (attention deficit disorder), insomnia, nervous tension, and some cancers, including leukemia and Burkitt's lymphoma.

See link for more information and contraindications for use.

Saturday, September 01, 2007

My Bone China Ritual Plate

י"ח באלול תשס"ז

It was waiting for me, just for me, to buy it. It was the only one the seller had and I bought it.

My bone china ritual plate is a Mikasa bone china "White Silk" soup plate, so ritual water can be poured into it to dissolve the words and letters of a petition spell. The petition potion can then be drunk directly from my bone plate.



Ingestable Blackberry Ink

י"ח באלול תשס"ז

For spells (like the biblical Sotah ritual, for example) requiring ink ingestion, a recipe for blackberry [1] ink:

1/2 cup ripe blackberries crushed through a strainer
1/2 tsp. vinegar
1/2 tsp. salt

Refrigerate unused portion when not in use.

Footnote:

[1] blackberry correspondences - feminine (gender), venus (planet), water (element), healing/money/protection (powers), Brigit (archetype)

Scribal Ink Base

י"ח באלול תשס"ז

As an alternative to archival black India ink as a base for my original Temple Pathways scribal ink recipe, for spellwork I am going to handmake my own black ink base as well. The black ink base takes some time to prepare, so in the meantime I will use the one made with an India ink base.

Here is a basic sofrut ink recipe modified from here:

3 grams gum arabic
3 grams ground gallnuts (source of tannic acid)
1 gram kankantum (vitriol - i.e. iron or copper sulphate)
1/8 liter distilled water
1/8 liter blackberry Manischewitz wine

To the above recipe, I'll add:

tsp. of vinegar (helps retain color, magickal healing property)
tsp. of salt (inhibits mold growth)
tsp. ground pomegranate rind (another source for tannic acid)
remaining ingredients as described in Temple Pathways ink recipe

crush, cook over open flame to residue, strain, wait 6 months

Some other basic ink recipes:

How To Make Ink
Ink Recipes 1
Ink Recipes 2
Ink Recipes 3
Ink Recipes 4
Ink Recipes 5
Ink Recipes 6 - bizzare, interesting recipe
Ink Recipes 7 - from the sixteenth century Booke of Secrets
Ink Recipes 8 - from the sixteenth century book, The Arte of Limming

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Temple Pathways Scribal Ink

י"א באלול תשס"ז

My new original recipe for Temple Pathways scribal ink, to be used for writing in my Book of Shadows (Sefer Tzelem):

1 small vial archival black India ink (or handmade alternative)
bit of lampblack handgathered from my own beeswax candle flame
1 drop mugwort oil
1 drop frankincense oil
1 drop myrrh oil
1 drop dragon's blood oil
1 drop cinnamon bark oil
1 drop of pomegranate juice
1 drop Kabbalistic Name Incense infusion
1 small chunk undissolved Kabbalistic Name Incense
1 small unground piece of gall nut (the happiness nut)
gum arabic to thicken as needed

The vial of prepared ink will be stored in this Temple pathways knotwork container.

Scribal Tools

י"א באלול תשס"ז

Here are some of the tools I have chosen for scribal craftwork. For symbolic discussions, see here, here and here.

Solid Silver Finger Egyptian-Style Stylus



Solid Bronze Semi-Sphere Dipping Inkwell



Temple Pathways Knotwork Ink Jar Container



Ark Box To Contain Scribal Supplies, Inscribed Inside With My Hebrew And Celtic Craft Names & Blessings Of Unified Multiplicity



Old Ways Lock & Key



Beriyah, Yetzirah, Assiyah Scribal Manifestation Chest Upon Which The Ark Will Rest

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Fine Line Infuser Cup

ט' באלול תשס"ז
My new exquisite Fine Line infuser tea cup for magical infusions and ritual teas. It's a hand-spun hand-glazed delight.

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Bewitching Altar Oil

ה' באלול תשס"ז

My newest original altar oil blend, Bewitching. Absolutely Divine.

5 drops frankincense
4 drops myrrh
3 drops mugwort
3 drops dragon's blood
1 small piece ginger (unground, dropped into blend)
1 small piece orris root (unground, dropped into blend)
1 small piece gall nut (unground, dropped into blend)

All essential oils added to a base of 1/8 cup jojoba oil. Store in an earthy spell bottle.

Altar Besom

ה' באלול תשס"ז

My altar besom. Handcrafted from broom corn grown dedicated to the purpose of constructing besoms. Pine wood handle.

From History Of Early American Brooms:

"The sweeping quality of brooms changed in 1797 when Levi Dickenson, a farmer in Hadley, Massachusetts, made a broom for his wife, using the tassels of a variety of sorghum (Sorghum vulgere), a grain he was growing for the seeds. She thought Levi's broom was exceptionally good and told friends and neighbors about it."

How sweet. Levi made a witchy broom for his wife and changed the entire broom-making industry. She really liked his broom, apparently. LOL.

Saturday, August 18, 2007

Mystic Brew Altar Oil


ד' באלול תשס"ז

My newest original recipe, Mystic Brew altar oil blend.

4 drops frankincense
4 drops myrrh
3 drops mugwort
1 drop sandalwood
1 drop benzoin
1 small piece orris root (unground, dropped into blend)
1 small piece gall nut (unground, dropped into blend)

All essential oils added to a base of 1/8 cup jojoba oil. Stored in a cobalt blue (cloak of protection) apothecary vessel.

Monday, August 13, 2007