Days 271–300
Magical Items to Gather:
Here are the magical items you will need during the next month of your training.
Day 271
• A lemon
• A dip pen (such as a feather quill)
• A 5–6 inch red taper candle
Day 272
• A 5–6 inch white taper candle
Day 282
• 2 tablespoons dried woodruff
• 1 bottle of wine
• Lemon juice
• Honey
Day 284
• A Universal Tarot deck
Day 300
• A 5–6 inch white taper candle.
Day 271
Practice: A Thought-Clearing Spell
Often at the root of strange and unwanted energies that linger around the home is our own indulgence in thoughts of anger, resentment, sadness, fear, or jealousy. All human emotions are natural, and we should honor and respect each one. However, engaging with these feelings, developing them and expanding upon them can cause you to inadvertently direct or even attract unwanted energies. You need neither to resist nor to gratify these energies and thoughts within you. Simply observe them and allow them to be, naturally—without any help from you.
Here is a spell to help magically dispel harmful patterns of thinking.
What You’ll Need:
• Circle-casting tools
• A lemon
• A dip pen (such as a feather quill)
• A blank white piece of paper
• A 5–6 inch red taper candle
• A thurible (or a deep pot in which you can burn an item safely)
This is an all-day spell. From the moment you awaken, focus your attention so that you have an awareness of what thought patterns arise. Whenever you notice a harmful thought, write it down on a piece of paper. Continue this practice until sundown. Then, when the sun has set, squeeze the juice of a lemon into a small bowl. Dip the tip of your pen into the lemon juice and use this to rewrite each of your harmful thoughts on a clean white sheet of paper. At the top and the bottom of each page draw a banishing-earth pentagram with the lemon juice ink. Remain silent while completing this rewriting task and allow no interruptions. Please note that the lemon juice will transfer to the page invisibly, so take care not to write over anything you have previously transferred on to the page.
Wait for the lemon juice to dry. Cast your circle as usual. Light a red taper candle. Hold the paper with the lemon juice writing on it close to the flame, but not so close that the page ignites. The writing should appear now.
During this ritual action, chant continuously:
From the void you have emerged,
And to the void you shall return!
Once you see all of your writing, fold the page in half, then in half again. Light it on fire with the red candle and drop it into the thurible. Continue chanting until there is nothing left but ash. Close your circle as usual. Bury the ash far from your dwelling.
Day 272
Contemplative Day:
Original Essence
Meditative Question: What is the original essence of all things?
Symbolic Color: White
Symbolic Direction: Center
At first glance, this month’s question might appear simply answered with a platitude such as, “Spirit is the essence of all.” However, to say this is to simply overlay learned ideas and sentiments, and to not experience your own reality. You may be surprised by the conclusions at which you arrive while exploring this mystery.
Find a comfortable meditative sitting position. Light a white candle and sit approximately two feet away from the flame. Cast your gaze upon the flickering candle and hold the question firmly at the level of the abdomen for 20 to 30 minutes.
As you have learned with the other meditative questions, it is not spiritually productive to explore this mystery through logic and deduction. Instead, become one with it in each of your tasks. Allow your body, mind, and spirit to become this question as you eat, sleep, work, and play. Over time, a shift in your perception will take place and you will realize your own answer.
Day 273
Devotional Day:
Honoring Janicot
Table of Correspondences: Janicot
Symbols: Spoked wheel, the phallus, black and yellow birds
Tools: The wand, the priapus, the athame
Magical Essences/Herbs: Musk, patchouli
Direction: South and east
He Rules: The ability to see the big picture,
understanding the true nature of things,
understanding the rhythm of life
Animal Symbols: Goat, black birds
Sacred Foods: Phallic- or rod-shaped foods (such
as asparagus, carrots, sausage, etc.)
Magical Stones: Ruby, turquoise
The French pronounce his name schan-i-co. He is the Basque god of the oak, of doorways, and of the wheel of the year. Not much is written of him. However, he was referred to by Pierre de Lancre during an early seventeenth-century campaign against Witches. He may be related to an old Basque sprite called Basa-Juan, whose name means “goat man.” His name may also be related to the Basque word for god, Jaincoa. Old woodcuts portray Janicot as a satyr-like being with the torso of a human male and legs and feet of a goat. He is a god of dancing and merriment, since he represents the turning of the wheel and the celebration of the sabbats.
When you tap into the ancient archetypal energies of Janicot, you also evoke your ability to see the big picture, to understand the true nature of things, to understand the rhythm of life and that all things have seasons. He also evokes your ability to see the true nature of your spirit. Janicot reminds you to stay focused on the season at hand, to release the past and to see each moment in time as a doorway to renewal. His sacred symbols are the eight-spoked wheel, which represents the eight sabbats of the Witches’ calendar, the phallus, and black birds. His magical essence is musk and his sacred colors are black and dark blue. His sacred stones are rubies and turquoise. Phallic-shaped foods such as asparagus and sausage are Janicot’s sacred foods.
Janicot Practice
In honoring Janicot today, make an altar that includes his sacred symbols. Cast a magic circle and then slowly intone this old Basque rhyme:
In nomine patrica,
Aragueaco petrica
Gastellaco Janicot,
Equidae ipordian pot.
Imagine the image of Janicot entering your sacred space until you feel or sense his presence with you. Once he has arrived, spend some time contemplating what it might mean to serve this aspect of deity. Take time to ask Janicot what it would mean to live life through his energy. Contemplate the sacred dimensions and principles of the lingam: action, movement, passion, drive. When you are finished, close the circle as usual.
Spend the day honoring this god by taking action while keeping in mind the big picture (meaning your overall goals, or perhaps even your community or the world).
Day 274
Day of Silence and Review
Today, as you observe silence, focus your attention on your sense of taste. As you eat focus your attention on flavors and textures. Of course, between your meals, remain silent. When the day is complete, answer these questions:
• What was it like to focus my attention on my sense of taste?
• Am I a person who reacts strongly to the taste of things?
• How do I react to tastes that I don’t particularly enjoy?
• In what way did my sense of taste impact my thoughts, emotions, or spirit?
• How does what I taste affect my physical energy?
Review
For today’s practice, take time to ask yourself the following:
• Of the information I have learned up to now, what stands out most as vital?
• What information seems least relevant to my spiritual development?
• Which of the practices seemed to move me spiritually, and which had little impact?
• Of the information I have learned so far, what would be best to review? (Take time to review it now.)
Day 275
Herbs: Magical Helpers
The history of herbs and our relationship to the plant world undoubtedly stretches back to pre-history. Herbs must have been highly revered in ancient societies. After all, these mysterious plants had practical uses—they could both cure or kill; they could ease pain or poison the body. Some herbs were known for their religious purposes; they could open the spiritual senses, heighten awareness, and yield teaching.
The history of herbs and their uses (both medicinal and magical) is far too complex to cover in its entirety here. However, the following brief summary highlights the influential moments within herbal history. It wasn’t until roughly 3000 bce that the first references to herbs and their powers were mentioned in writing. It was then that China’s “Red-Emperor” Shen Nung documented his accounts of experiments to study the physical effects of various herbs.84 Later Egyptian records, from as early as 1500 bce, describe the medicinal and magical use of herbs. The Greeks were the first to codify herbal lore in the centuries spanning 500 and 400 bce, and in 50 bce the Roman physician Pedanius Dioscorides penned his celebrated De Materia Medica, which forever influenced herbals in both the Eastern and Western cultures.85 Centuries later, in 1653, Nicholas Culpepper wrote his Complete Herbal, documenting the astrological associations between herbs and planetary forces. Much of contemporary herbal lore and magical practice is founded on this influential work.
The power of herbs continues to influence us today in both medical and magical ways. Approximately 50 percent of all drugs listed in the U.S. Pharmacopia are herb derived.86 In magical practice, Witches actively use herbs as part of their craft for both their healing and magical influences. In contemporary magical practice, Wiccans often draw upon the old tables of correspondence drafted in the Middles Ages and Renaissance, yet they honor the roots of this practice that reach back to the ancient world.
Herbs to Know
Spend time today acquainting yourself with the following list of herbs and their magical purposes. In order to gain some mastery of magical herbalism, commit to your memory at least four of these magical herbs. To help you gain practical knowledge, devise a spell that incorporates one of these herbs in combination with color, planetary glyph, day of the week, magical hour, and magical stone.
Over the next several days, you will be introduced to a selection of magical herbs. The list is incomplete, as there are literally hundreds of herbs that Witches use in magical operations. Each herb can be used fresh, dried, or in an essential oil form. Most Witches use fresh and dried herbs in healing practices, in making brews and ointments, and in spellwork. Herbal essential oils distill the vibratory and occult qualities of fresh herbs. In some instances they function in magical work much more efficiently than fresh or dried herbs. Essential oils can be worn either on the body or on clothing. You can also incorporate them into ritual by anointing people, animals, or ritual objects.
Poisonous Herbs 101
Some of the herbs in this magical list are poisonous. You should not, under any circumstances, consume poisonous herbs. Never use your bare hands to handle poisonous herbs. Instead, use surgical gloves (obtainable at any pharmacy) or plastic food-handling gloves (obtainable at most grocery stores) when working with these plants. Remember never to touch your eyes or mouth while handling poisonous items, and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after contact. Do not store toxic herbs in closed or unventilated spaces.
Caution
Exercise caution when consuming herbs internally or when applying them to your skin. Many herbs can create allergic reactions. Some herbs cannot be taken internally at all—and some you cannot use externally—because they are known poisons or toxins. Herbal manuals such as the Grieve’s Manual, The Master Book of Herbalism by Paul Beryl, or Mastering Herbalism by Paul Huson can give you in-depth information regarding which herbs contain toxins and which do not.
Herbs and Brews
Brews are an infusion of a single herb (or an herb blend) that Witches use for magical purposes. A Witch typically consumes a potion to attain specific magical attributes. For example, a Witch might brew together sage and anise, and then drink it to obtain wisdom or harmony. Witches also use infusions topically as an herbal wash or as a bath. In both instances the Witch can obtain the magical virtues of herbs without consuming them.
Practice: Making a Brew or Wash
Choose one of the herbs in the list below and prepare a brew or wash.
Brew/Wash Basic Recipe
Use 1 teaspoon of dried herb (or 3 teaspoons of fresh) to 1 cup boiling water. Place herbs in a tea bag or use a tea-straining device. Stir the herbs into the cup of hot water and allow it to steep for at least five minutes. For herbal baths, allow the herbs to steep in the tub for 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can make a brew and pour this into your bathwater.
To use an herb as a wash, simply create the brew as directed above, allow it to cool and then rub it into your seven chakra points. A Witch takes an herbal bath by submerging her body into a tub of very hot water that has been infused with herbs.
Herbs to Know – Day 275
Key:
F=Use herb
D=Use herb
O=Essential oil
=Warning: Poisonous/toxic herb
|
Herb |
Planet |
Part Used |
Form |
Magical Purpose |
|
Acorn |
Earth |
acorn (seed) |
F, |
Fertility magic, male virility, fruition, creative potential |
|
Angelica |
Sun |
leaf |
F, D, O |
Protection, counter-magic, good fortune |
|
Anise |
Moon |
seed, leaves |
F, D, O |
Friendship, love; protects against bad dreams, harmonizes spiritual and physical dimensions |
|
Apple |
Venus, Moon |
fruit, wood, seed |
F, D, O |
Love spells, pleasure, luck, wisdom |
|
Ash |
Sun & Moon |
wood |
F, D |
Tree magic; summons the old gods, controls unwanted spirits |
|
Balm of Gilead |
Venus, Jupiter |
leaf |
D, O |
Healing |
|
Basil |
Mars |
leaf |
F, D, O |
Fire energies, salamander magic; invokes the archetype of the dragon and its magical power; temple-blessing herb |
|
Bay Laurel |
Sun |
leaf |
F, D, O |
Psychic vision, prophecy; protection from thunderstorms |
|
Benzoin |
Pluto |
resin |
D, O |
Harmony, enhances spiritual qualities, astral journeys, meditation, spiritual mastery |
|
Blessed Thistle |
Mars |
leaf, flower/ seed pod |
D |
Sharpening of the mind, protection from unwanted energies, reversal of hexes |
Day 276
Herbs to Know
Spend time today acquainting yourself with the following list of herbs and their magical purposes. In order to gain some mastery of magical herbalism, commit to your memory at least four of these magical herbs. To help you gain practical knowledge of these herbs, try using one or more of them in a magical brew or potion. Devise a spell in which you would use one of the herbs in the list in combination with: color, planetary glyph, day of the week, magical hour, and magical stone.
Herb Gathering Lore
The texts of Pliny, Magnus, and Tusser, (as well as other ancient herbals) outline several ritual rules for the proper gathering of herbs. These rules were alleged to preserve the plant’s many virtues.
• Pluck herbs associated with the Moon, Venus and Neptune with your left hand; pluck herbs associated with the Sun, Jupiter, Mars, and Pluto with your right hand; herbs associated with Saturn and Mercury can be picked with either hand
• Herbs must be picked secretly, in solitary circumstances
• Never face into the wind when plucking an herb
• No matter what occurs, never look behind you
• Never cut herbs with iron tools
• Cut herbs during the twenty-third through the twenty-eighth day of the lunar cycle
• After harvesting herbs, lay them out on wheat or barley
• Leave a small offering to the earth (spirits) whenever you pluck an herb; some herbals suggest offerings of small silver coins, wine, mead, honey, bread, or corn
Herbs to Know – Day 276
Key:
F=Use herb
D=Use herb
O=Essential oil
=Warning: Poisonous/toxic herb
|
Herb |
Planet |
Part Used |
Form |
Magical Purpose |
|
Borage |
Jupiter |
leaves |
F, D |
Spiritual strength, happiness, changes one’s mood |
|
Broom N |
Mars, Moon |
flowers, leaves |
F, D, O, |
Luck, deep sleep, magical enhancement |
|
Catnip |
Venus |
leaves |
F, D |
Transfiguration, shape-shifting, brings the power of the cat into your life |
|
Cedar |
Mercury |
wood |
D, O, |
Consecration, money drawing, archetypal energies of the unicorn, attainment of ideals |
|
Chamomile |
Sun |
flower |
F, D, O |
Communication with fairies, increases power of spellwork, success, victory, health |
|
Cinnamon |
Sun |
bark |
D, O |
Concentration, purification, fire magic, mental focus |
|
Cinquefoil |
Jupiter, Mercury |
leaves |
D, F |
Contacts Mother goddess, love dreams, safe journeys |
|
Cornflower |
Venus |
flower |
F, D |
Psychic visions, prophecy |
|
Damiana |
Pluto |
leaves |
F, D |
Sexuality, secrets revealed, psychic prowess, quartz crystal protection |
|
Dittany of Crete |
Venus, Moon |
leaves |
F, D, |
Communication with the dead, brings knowledge of the afterlife |
Day 277
Drying Herbs
Drying herbs preserves their magical properties over time. To begin drying herbs, make sure you have a well-ventilated, cool, dry, dark storage/ drying area. You might consider using a closet in your home. Or if you live where the weather is temperate, the rafters of a garage make a nice herb-drying space. It is important that you make sure that your drying herbs are not exposed to heat above 90 degrees (Fahrenheit), or else they’ll begin to lose their potency.
Herbs vary in the length of their drying time. The amount of time it takes for an herb to dry depends on the woodiness, the density of the herb, and the part of the herb you are trying to dry. Leaves tend to dry much more quickly than roots, for example.
The traditional Wiccan way of herb drying begins with the gathering process. Witches use a specific tool called the boline when they gather herbs. The boline is a white handled knife that has a curved, sickle-shaped blade. Wiccan lore suggests that the boline is a relative of the mythic golden sickle used by Druid priests in herb-gathering rituals. If you cannot procure a boline, you can simply use a white-handled knife—or some other knife that you have set aside for mundane work.
A Witch’s boline, and the inscription
to be set on its handle.
Herbs are best harvested at either dawn or dusk, as the natural essential oils and magical properties of the plant are strongest at these times. Stand before the herb that you plan to harvest and touch it with the appropriate hand (see Herb-Gathering Lore, Day 276). Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Imagine that your feet become roots and your body becomes the herb you are about to harvest. As you imagine this, try to sense whether or not the herb is willing to be harvested. If the plant has an unwilling energy at this time, try to harvest the herb again at a later date. If you sense agreement from the herb, a cooperative energy, use your boline in the appropriate hand to cut through the herb in a single stroke. Be sure to silently thank the plant for offering itself to your magical aid.
Tie the stalks of the harvested herb with twine and hang it up to dry inverted. This inversion, with stalks on top and leaves on the bottom, allows the essential oils to hold in the leaves. After the herb is hung, hold your hands near the cuttings and say:
Leaf and bud, root and seed,
Aid me in my sacred need!
Herbs to Know
Spend time today acquainting yourself with the list of herbs and their magical purposes that appears on the following page. In order to gain some mastery of magical herbalism, commit to your memory at least four of these magical herbs. To help you gain knowledge of these herbs, try using one or more of them in a magical brew or potion. Devise a spell in which you would use one of the herbs in the list in combination with: color, planetary glyph, day of the week, magical hour, and magical stone.
Herbs to Know – Day 277
Key:
F=Use herb
D=Use herb
O=Essential oil
=Warning: Poisonous/toxic herb
|
Herb |
Planet |
Part Used |
Form |
Magical Purpose |
|
Dragon’s Blood |
Mercury, |
resin |
D, O |
Magical strength and vitality, commanding, protection |
|
Elm |
Saturn |
leaf |
F, D |
Crush fresh leaves, inhale the vapors for psychic dreams or prior to divination |
|
Eyebright |
Sun |
leaf |
F, D |
Joy, optimism, brings clarity to any situation |
|
Fennel |
Mercury |
seed, leaf |
F, D, O |
Fertility, blessing, consecration of magic circle. |
|
Ferns |
Mercury, Moon |
spore, leaf |
F |
Invisibility, to act and go unobserved |
|
Foxgloves |
Venus, Pluto |
flower |
F, |
Communication with elemental beings, used in flying ointments |
|
Frankincense |
Sun |
resin |
D, O |
Solar magic, compassion, protection, concentration |
|
Garlic |
Mars |
root/Bulb |
F |
Protection, purification, invokes the Crone aspect of the triple goddess |
|
Ginger |
Moon |
root |
F, D |
Improves health |
|
Holly |
Saturn |
leaf |
F, |
Immortality, magical aid from elemental beings |
Day 278
Herbs to Know
Spend time today acquainting yourself with the list of herbs and their magical purposes, as shown in the table for Day 278. In order to gain some mastery of magical herbalism, commit to your memory at least four of these magical herbs. To help you gain knowledge of these herbs, try using one or more of them in a magical brew or potion. Devise a spell in which you would use one of the herbs in the list in combination with: color, planetary glyph, day of the week, magical hour, and magical stone.
Herbs to Know – Day 278
Key:
F=Use herb
D=Use herb
O=Essential oil
=Warning: Poisonous/toxic herb
|
Herb |
Planet |
Part Used |
Form |
Magical Purpose |
|
Hops |
Pluto |
leaf |
F, D, O |
Dreams, sleep, visions, prophecy |
|
Hyssop |
Moon, Jupiter |
leaf |
F, D, O |
Cleansing, psychic protection, clears the aura |
|
Iris (Orris Root) |
Moon, Venus |
root |
D |
Love, romance, attracts a mate |
|
Juniper |
Sun, Mars |
leaf |
F, D |
Health, physical energy |
|
Mandrake |
Mercury |
root |
F, D |
Aphrodisiac, magical potency, powerful protection |
|
Mistletoe |
Sun, Jupiter |
leaf |
F, D, |
Sex, immortal life, protects the home. |
|
Myrrh |
Jupiter |
resin |
D |
Protection, blessing, safety |
|
Oak |
Sun |
wood |
D |
Luck, magical knowledge, secrets revealed |
|
Patchouli |
Pluto |
leaf |
D, F, O |
Sex, physical pleasure |
|
Pine |
Mars |
leaf |
D, F, O |
Brings wealth, riches |
Day 279
“Cutting” Essential Oils
Witches like to wear herbal essential oils, especially since it helps connect them to the earth, to nature, and to the occult vibrations of their specific magical workings. Even when there is no formal magical working at hand, Witches still enjoy anointing themselves to alter their aura and their energies. However, before using any essential oil, it is important to know that some can be skin irritants and they need diluting before application. For this purpose, many practitioners cut the full strength of an essential oil with a carrier oil. The basic cutting ratio is two to four drops of an essential oil to one teaspoon (or even a tablespoon, depending on the strength of the essential oil) of carrier oil. Below is a list of the carrier oils that Witches most commonly use.
Almond Oil: This oil has a slight scent. Slow to become rancid, almond oil helps maintain your magical blends for long periods of time. Almond oil can also have a magical effect of its own. Almond imparts fertility, fecundity, and growth. It is closely linked with the power of magic and the planet Mercury.
Apricot Oil: This oil is odorless and is good for dry skin. It penetrates deeply. Apricot’s magical effect is calming. Apricot soothes and opens the mind. Apricot oil is aligned with the planetary energies of Venus.
Avocado Oil: This odorless oil mixes well with other carrier oils. Avocado’s magical power is its ability to link the wearer with the mother aspect of the triple goddess. Avocado oil aligns with the planetary influences of Earth and the Moon.
Grape Seed Oil: This is a light, clear carrier oil. It does not imbalance oily skin conditions. Grape seed oil brings renewal, insight, and rebirth. This oil is linked with the mysteries of Dionysus, of death to the old (an old pattern, relationship, way of living, etc.) and birth to something new. Grape seed oil aligns with the planetary influences of Mercury.
Jojoba Oil: This oil is well known because it nourishes skin and has a softening effect. Good for love, peace, and meditation oils/blends. Jojoba aligns with the planetary influences of Jupiter.
Vegetable Glycerine: This is not an oil at all. It is a colorless, odorless substance that can be cut with water. It is an excellent carrier for essential oils and will not become rancid. Vegetable glycerin has no magical association; it is able to take on the qualities of the essential oils that it carries.
Herbs to Know
Spend time today acquainting yourself with the following list of herbs and their magical purposes. In order to gain some mastery of magical herbalism, commit to your memory at least four of these magical herbs. To help you gain knowledge of these herbs, try using one or more of them in a magical brew or potion. Devise a spell in which you would use one of the herbs in the list in combination with color, planetary glyph, day of the week, magical hour, and magical stone.
Herbs to Know – Day 279
Key:
F=Use herb
D=Use herb
O=Essential oil
=Warning: Poisonous/toxic herb
|
Herb |
Planet |
Part Used |
Form |
Magical Purpose |
|
Rosemary |
Sun |
leaf |
F, D, O |
Protection, memory, healing |
|
Sage (White Sage, Desert Sage) |
Saturn |
leaf |
D, O, |
Wisdom, aura clearing, protection, elevates one’s mind, body, and spirit |
|
Sandalwood |
Jupiter |
wood |
D, O |
Meditation, trance work, sacred visions |
|
Solomon’s Seal |
Saturn |
flower, root |
F, D |
Consecration, seals spells |
|
Toadflax |
Venus |
leaf |
F, D |
For working with familiars |
|
Woodruff |
Mars, Venus |
leaf |
F, D |
Steeped in May wine for ritual, cakes and wine links one to the gods |
Day 280
The “Baleful” Herbs
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the term baleful means “harmful or malignant in intent or effect.” By the same source, it also reputedly means “ominous” or “portending evil.” When thinking about this word, baleful, it is important to keep in mind that the ongoing work of Witches is to see beyond the limitations of words and concepts upheld by the mainstream of one’s society. It is important to question why our culture labels some things harmful or ominous, and some things not. Bunnies and happy faces are not baleful. Witches and magic are. Why is that? This question penetrates layer upon layer of history and politics. It roots out ugly secrets that involve the church’s suppression of women’s power and their body of knowledge, which in the days of Old Europe consisted (in one aspect) of the ways of healing herbs and remedies. In the Middle Ages, the church had a powerful ally in the battle for the religious heart of Europe’s peasant class, namely the emerging male-dominated medical profession. In order for this profession to succeed, they needed to stamp out the old pagan herbal practices and their healers. Thereafter, simple country healers and their practices were outlawed and branded as enemies of the Church. Many of the women who had devoted their lives to healing were later tortured and burned for their arts. Healing methods once deemed holy were now profane. Herbs that could halt an unwanted pregnancy or that could cause someone to see unseen realities were suddenly demonic and baleful.
In contemporary magical practice, Witches consider the so-called baleful herbs to be associated with advanced magical work. Astral travel, shape-shifting (or magical transfiguration) and psychic development are some of the uses that Witches find for the balefuls. Witches also link these herbs to counter magic and to bindings.
On page 294 is a listing of many of the baleful herbs, and a list of some of their potential uses in magical practice.
Spend time today acquainting yourself with the following list of herbs and their magical purposes. Commit at least four of these magical herbs to your memory. Devise a spell in which you would use one of the herbs in the list in combination with: color, planetary glyph, day of the week, magical hour and magical stone.
Caution
Baleful herbs are poisonous. They should not be ingested, inhaled or even held in close contact with the skin. Please use caution if you attempt to use these herbs for any reason. If you accidentally ingest any of these herbs, immediately contact your local poison control.
I have listed some of the traditional ways Witches and magical folk would use these herbs for historical purposes only and I do not recommend that the reader use these highly toxic herbs. Using them can be dangerous, both physically and magically.
Flying Ointment
Flying ointment is the name of an herbal salve that Witches rub on their bodies in order to induce altered states of awareness. In historical accounts, Witches who used the ointments would hallucinate that they had changed into animals, had attended the Witches’ Sabbat, that they had sexual encounters with demons, spoke with birds and other animals, or that they had flown across the countryside on rakes, hoes, or brooms.
Baleful Herbs to Know – Day 280
Key:
F=Use fresh
D=Use dried
O=Essential oil
=Warning: Poisonous/toxic herb
|
Herb |
Planet |
Part Used |
Form |
Magical Purpose |
|
Aconite |
Saturn |
leaf |
F, D, |
Invokes dark aspects of deity and of the mind (for purification), psychic work, magical flight, this baleful herb can be used in curses and bindings |
|
Fly Agaric |
Moon, Pluto |
mushroom |
F,D, |
Found in many ancient “flying ointment” recipes; psychic work; astral travel, a teaching herb |
|
Jimson Weed |
Moon, Uranus |
leaf |
D, |
Astral travel; psychic work; opens vision to other worlds |
|
Henbane |
Saturn |
leaf |
F,D, |
Bindings, counter-magic; deflects dark forces, invokes hidden knowledge |
|
Hemlock |
Saturn, Moon |
leaf |
F, D, |
Bindings, counter-magic; summons Hecate and all dark moon goddesses; brings knowledge of one’s own death |
|
Wolfbane |
Mars, Saturn |
leaf |
F, D, |
Stops enemies; employs familiars in counter- magic; magical death and strong curses |
Uses of Baleful Herbs – Day 280
|
Herb |
Zodiacal Influence |
Day of the Week |
Magical Color |
Ways to Use this Herb |
|
Aconite |
Capricorn |
Saturday |
Purple |
Left at a crossroads as an offering to Hecate, to invoke her favor in counter-magic, protective magic, or in divination; used as an ingredient in a flying ointment; the athame was wrapped in fresh leaves as a traditional form of consecration; carried in small cloth bags as a protection against potential negative magical energies |
|
Fly Agaric |
Pisces |
Monday |
Red |
An ingredient in traditional flying ointment; wrapped in oak leaves and worn as an amulet on a string to invoke visions and psychic power |
|
Jimson Weed |
Aquarius |
Wednesday |
Orange |
Used to bring hallucinogenic visions of other worlds; used to invoke visions of the elementals |
|
Henbane |
Scorpio |
Saturday |
Black |
Steeped in hot water and sprinkled outside the magic circle to invoke spirits of the departed; root was dried, engraved with someone’s name and then buried to send negative energies back to the sender |
|
Hemlock |
Scorpio |
Monday |
Black |
Dried and powdered leaves were strewn on one’s front doorstep and across all windowsills to protect from harm |
|
Wolfbane |
Aries |
Tuesday |
Brown |
A jar filled with this herb was said to bring protection from animal spirits (familiars); carried as a protection against enemies |
Day 281
Making Magical Inks
When Witches create spells, they often do so, as the magical saying goes, “in their own hand of writ.” As you have learned over the past days, creating a spell often involves inscribing magical words, names and symbols. Typically, magical folk use a variety of specialized inks—each with its own spiritual properties—to boost the power of their spells. You make your own magical ink from natural herbal sources, and then you use a “dip” pen or a sharpened feather quill in order to inscribe with the ink. Below is a listing of various herbal inks, what they do, and how to make them.
For today’s practice, make one of the inks below and use to create a magical inscription.
Tree Ink
Burn a stick or twig from a magical tree and use this burned end to inscribe magical writings. The power from the tree imbues your spells. Here is a listing of some magical trees and their spiritual energies.
Ash: Protection, repels negativity, divination
Hazel: Knowledge, wisdom, truth
Oak: Wisdom, magical power, good fortune, health
Willow: New beginnings, rebirth, ends old cycles
Dragon’s Blood Ink
Dragon’s blood ink is a “compelling and commanding” type of ink. It manifests your desires with force and swiftness. Steep a teaspoon of powdered dragon’s blood resin in 1⁄8 cup of alcohol and 1⁄8 cup of gum arabic. The result should be a red ink. Strain any remaining pieces out before you use it.
Dove’s Blood Ink
This ink has the same power as dragon’s blood, but to a lesser degree. It has a friendlier, less urgent quality to it. Use for love and friendship charms. Make it the same way as the dragon’s blood ink, but when completed, add three drops of rose essential oil.
Black Frankincense and Myrrh Ink
This ink gives the power of success and influence to any of your spells. Burn frankincense and myrrh resins over hot coals. Collect the smoke from this on an inverted spoon. On the spoon add a few drops of hot, distilled water. Do this slowly to allow time for the black from the resin smoke to blend with the water. Add a minute amount of gum arabic to this mixture to thicken.
Day 282
Herbed Ritual Wine
One Wiccan tradition involves enhancing the flavor of wine used in the ritual of cakes and wine. Wiccans most commonly use woodruff to flavor their ritual wine. Woodruff has a traditional planetary association with Mars. Witches associate the herb with magical empowerment, the energies of the south of your circle, and the southern quarter’s power to will. Witches drink wine infused with woodruff to reenergize the mind and reinvigorate the spirit, since typically the celebration of cakes and wine takes place at the end of a ritual when you might begin to grow weary.
Today, gather the ingredients and begin the process of herbing your own sacred wine.
What You’ll Need:
• 2 tablespoons dried woodruff
• 1 bottle of wine
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Honey to taste
Simply mix the ingredients together and allow them to sit for six hours or more. Pour the wine through cheesecloth to sift out the solid ingredients. Serve during the cakes and wine portion of your circle.
Day 283
Divination
Perhaps you’ve heard of them: the tarot, magic mirrors, numerology, the runes—these are all various forms of divination. The word divination is derived from the word divine. In ancient times, individuals who possessed the ability to see into the future were considered to be linked to the gods, the divine force.
The methods of divination are partially art and partially craft. Well, let’s face it. Some of us “got it” and some of us don’t. The “it” I’m referring to is psychic ability. There are a number of methods, some of which rely on art (pure psychic ability) and some rely on craft (mostly mechanical methods that rely on recognizable symbolic patterns). Whether you are a “have” or a “have-not,” you can be effective in divination. Most of us are in the have-not category. Those of us who are psychically challenged rely on techniques such as astrology, numerology, geomancy, and some tarot methods that do not require any special innate abilities for a successful divinatory reading.
Then there are those other methods. You know, the ones set aside for the gifted readers of this book who would likely cash in at the roulette wheel in a Las Vegas casino. These techniques rely on an individual’s pure psychic ability. This category of non-mechanical or scrying techniques includes the crystal ball, pendulums, and the magic mirror.
If you don’t know the category to which you belong, not to worry. During the next days, you will have a brief introduction to several divination techniques and you will gain a clear understanding of how to use the various methods involved in each. You will also learn more about your own psychic aptitude.
Before you get started with learning about divination, take time today to consider the following questions.
Practice: Questions about Divination
• What are my current beliefs and attitudes about divination?
• Is it right or wrong to glimpse the future?
• What are some possible results of knowing the future?
• Do I believe that human beings are guided by a predetermined plan or is choice involved in our destinies?
• Can knowing something about the future alter my current behavior or life patterns in some way?
Day 284
Learning the Tarot
The word tarot has an unusual origin. Scholars believe that the deck of seventy-eight cards began as the fifteenth-century Italian card game called tarocchi. Occult traditions claim that the tarot is an ancient system of divination that can be traced back to either eleventh-century Morocco or even as far back as ancient Egypt. The traditional tarot deck has fifty-six minor arcana (or lesser mysteries) cards, made up of suits such as wands, cups, swords, and pentacles. The remaining twenty-two cards, the major arcana (greater mysteries), depict archetypal or universal themes common to all humanity.
The subjects of the major arcana are a distillation of the themes you find throughout the minor arcana and they cover a broad range of our human experiences. Because of this, many tarot readers dispense with using the minor suit cards in divinatory readings altogether. While it is worthwhile to fully investigate all seventy-eight of the tarot cards, we will focus in on the twenty-two major arcana over the next weeks.
You will also learn how to use these cards for divinatory, meditative, and personal empowerment purposes. Throughout these lessons, I will refer to the imagery of the Universal Tarot deck (publisher: Lo Scarabeo). Most everyone new to the tarot gains initial training with a similar deck. You can find these decks at any well-stocked metaphysical shop or through an online service.
Our First Card: The Fool
The fool walks toward the edge of a cliff, while looking up into the sky. He is about to leap into the unknown. This too is how we enter the world. We are born not knowing. There is no conditioning of the mind, nor is there orientation to culture, language, time, place, person, family, etc. We simply are. This is our natural state of being. It is the magical state of empowerment inherent in all that exists: flowers, cars, planets, atoms, dogs and cats. We all have an existence that is independent of thought, free from the state of conditioned knowing.
Divinatory Meaning
The Fool represents a state of innocence, a state of unconditioned action; it is pure action that is not predicated on thought. It can represent a person who is acting from a state of innocence and not knowing, or simply a situation that calls for the questioner to enter this state of awareness.
Meditation
Sit comfortably in front of a white wall. Open your eyes and gaze as though you are focusing on a spot at least three feet through the wall. Breathe normally. Follow the breath with your mind and do not allow thoughts to interrupt your ability to follow the breath. You can count each breath from one to ten. Return to the number one each time you notice a thought arising.
Daily Practice
Keep the Fool card with you at all times today, or, if this is not practical, place it on your altar. Keep a “foolish” mind with you all day. Don’t assume the reasons for the things that happen. Avoid internal dialogue and running commentary about the events of your day. Keep a simple mind that reflects everything and clings to nothing. Evoke the Fool state of mind whenever you need simplicity and truth in your life.
Day 285
The Magician
The Magician is card number one in the tarot. One is a number that carries a masculine energy. In its essence, the Magician and the number one represent forward-moving, directed willpower. The Magician stands before his altar with four of the magical tools spread before him. He holds a phallic wand in his upraised right hand. The lamnescate, the symbol for eternity, floats above the magician’s head. The energy of the magician is that of fire; it is the primal energy that sustains creative action.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Magician represents the power to create change. When this card appears in the reading, remind the questioner that he or she holds all of the tools necessary for success. Once you are able to change your consciousness, you are able to change your circumstance. It also means that it is time to become active, to take some necessary practical action.
Meditation
Close your eyes and take several deep breaths. Imagine that you travel through time and space until you stand before the most primal of energies—the force behind all creation. How does this energy appear to you? As you stand there, begin to inhale and exhale slowly. As you inhale, imagine that you draw this force into your being. Fill your body entirely until there is no “you” left—only this creative force. After that, open your eyes. How does it feel to be one with the power of the Magician?
Daily Practice
Keep the Magician card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. Stay focused on action today. What is it that you need to accomplish? Do you have goals? If not, why not? Set some goals today. Write down the steps to achieve your daily goals and complete each step. The power behind magic is that of movement—so stay active until you achieve your plans.
Day 286
The High Priestess
The High Priestess is the symbol for intuition and self-guidance. Just as the number one symbolizes masculine energy, the number two symbolizes the universal feminine. The High Priestess sits between two pillars, one black and one white. The pillars represent the polar energies (life and death, night and day, being and non-being, etc.) that pervade all of existence. Since the High Priestess is the divine feminine principle, the entirety of the universe, she contains these contrasting qualities. The crown on her head represents the full moon. The elemental energy of the High Priestess is that of water. The image of the High Priestess card teaches us that the primal waters (which symbolize the unformed, fluid unconscious mind) give birth to and guide all of life.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the High Priestess represents your own intuitive power. The questioner must look into her own deep mind for the key answers in the reading. Intuition guides the questioner at this time; if only she were to acknowledge this, she would know the most empowering course of action.
Meditation
When you have a situation that requires your intuition, try this meditation. Before you begin, contemplate your situation thoroughly. Then close your eyes and take several deep breaths. Imagine that you stand before a great clear pool. This is the pool of your own internal wisdom. Beside the pool is a magical chalice. Fill the cup and drink deeply of the waters. Ask what it is you should do in the situation. Listen for an answer—and then follow it.
Daily Practice
Keep the High Priestess card with you, or alternatively, place it on your altar. For the duration of the day, maintain awareness of your hunches and intuitive perceptions. Follow your intuition today and see where it leads you. Release yourself into the vast supportive net of the universe, and know in your bones that nature always supports you. You are always connected to the people, places, and things of this world in ways that you can never full, consciously know.
Day 287
The Empress
The Empress is the symbol for birth and the universal mother principle. The Empress sits in a lush garden and at her feet sits the symbol for Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. As she sits on her plush throne, she holds up a pearl scepter. The empress represents the mother instinct, the desire to provide, to give birth to new things, to nurture, and to love.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Empress signifies that love, nurturing, and beauty are the necessary qualities that the questioner must bring forward in a given situation. Have the questioner think about how she has applied (or not) a fully accepting, nonjudgmental, loving attitude in the situation. Where this principle is applied, the questioner can be assured of the desirable outcome.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you travel down inside your body to the region of your heart. Once you are there, this region opens to a lush, green landscape. Beneath your feet is a path that you instinctively follow. At the end of the path is a robed woman with a full figure and a kindly face. This figure is the ideal archetypal mother. She opens her arms and holds you, deeply filling you with inner peace and a sense of harmony. Return to this place whenever you have need of this mother goddess’ love or wisdom.
Daily Practice
Keep the Empress card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. For the duration of the day, maintain focus on your interactions with other people. Are you able to speak with a voice of love? Are you able to listen with ears of loving acceptance? Are you able to be present to someone else’s joy or pain? Try to develop your ability to open up to other people in these ways today.
Day 288
The Emperor
The Emperor is the symbol for the universal principle of activity. Occultists associate this card with the Germanic rune Ansuz, which represents the stag. The Emperor represents the Witch’s horned god in all of his might. The Emperor sits on a throne adorned with ram’s heads. The Emperor represents the power of Aries, the ram: force, pioneering, movement, command, and leadership. The bearded Emperor sits on his throne before a background of rugged, bare mountains, which evoke the feeling of sterility, a warning of the dangers that can come with unilateral and unchallenged power.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Emperor signifies leadership. The questioners should assess her leadership abilities, or perhaps should see how she id leading herself or others in the situation at hand. Remember that temperance moderates effective leadership and that a monarchical approach to matters can lead to oppression. Have the questioner think about how she might lead the situation in a new direction.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you sit on the Emperor’s throne. Imagine yourself cloaked in his robes and feel the power that they impart. On the ground before you lies the Emperor’s golden staff, which is formed in the shape of an Egyptian ankh. This is the symbol of immortal life and eternal power. Take the scepter in your hand, and immediately you will feel the power of the Emperor flooding through you. Ask yourself what action to take in your life. When you are done, open your eyes and take that leadership role.
Daily Practice
Keep the Emperor card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. For the duration of the day, consider how you lead other people (or how you don’t). How effective are you as a leader? Do you assume leadership duties or do you shrink away from them? During the course of the day, take the lead in some positive, inclusive way.
Day 289
The Heirophant
The Heirophant symbolizes conventionality, meaning the outer forms and structures of spirituality and ritual. The Heirophant sits with the triple crown of the pope upon his head. Close to his feet are keys that unlock sacred mysteries, and his feet rest on hidden doctrines. The Heirophant is built on the initiatory mysteries found in the previous High Priestess card, but he has no interest in the mysteries. His way is that of doctrine, words, interpretation, and culture. Traditional religious experiences often reflect the archetype of the Heirophant, as they rarely engage the mystical senses that can free and illuminate an individual.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Heirophant signifies a conventional approach to life’s matters. The questioner may be stuck in the traditional modes of society and needs to break free—or at least question these structures. Questioners should ask themselves why they feel the need to conform in the situation. What exactly are they seeking by choosing a conforming approach to their lives? Questioners should accept themselves in all their strengths and imperfections. On the other hand, it could be that the questioner is somehow unconventional to the point of inaccessibility and this stance should likewise be thoroughly questioned.
Meditation
Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Imagine that you walk down a wide path that runs through the woods. It is midnight and the full moon lights your path. As you walk, think about a difficult situation in your life about which you have trouble deciding what to do. As you think and walk, you soon notice that the path comes to a fork. On the left-hand side is a narrow path that seems dark because it is shaded by trees. The small path is curved, so you cannot see what lies ahead. On the right is a wide, easily accessible path, brightly lit by the moon. Which path will you take?
From out of the woods emerges the Heirophant. Tell him about your life situation and allow him to guide you to the right path. Ask him which path you should take and why.
Daily Practice
Keep the Heirophant card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. Spend time noticing how you might act from routine. Anything can become routine—even acting unconventionally can become habit, and all habitual patterns should come under the microscope. Question the origins of your routines. Is routine based in fear of the unknown? Is following a routine an easier way to live day to day? Does it help organize your existence? Why does your life need to be organized in any particular way? Try something that breaks your normal pattern or routine today.
Day 290
The Lovers
The Lovers is the symbol for universal love—the joining of two separate parts into one complete whole. The Lovers stand before two trees. The male figure stands before a tree with flames upon it. The female stands before the mythical Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. An angel hovers above them, representing the divine quality of union. In Wicca, the lovers also stands for the divine union celebrated in the initiatory Great Rite, wherein two consenting Witches engage in ritualized (and sometimes purely symbolic) sexual union. The act represents the joining of disparate forces that come together as pieces of the grand whole. It is the joining of the conscious to the unconscious, sun to moon, action to nonaction, and being to non-being. The principle of the Lovers is best represented by the Chinese yin-yang symbol.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Lovers can indicate love or romance in the questioner’s life. In any case it refers to relationship. The relationship does not have to be between human beings. It asks the questioner to consider how things interrelate. What is cause and what is effect? The Lovers might also ask the questioner to contemplate how sexuality plays a role in the current situation.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you stand before a great mirror that can show what it is you believe you lack. As you stand before the mirror, you initially behold your usual reflection, but then the image transforms and you see the part of you that you believe is missing. What does the mirror show you? Ask the mirror what steps to take to find wholeness and unity.
Daily Practice
Keep the Lovers card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. Contemplate your relationships to people, to objects, to the environment, and to the world of spirit. Focus on building respectful, sacred, whole relationships today. Instead of viewing the objects of your environment as inanimate and lacking awareness, regard them as beings of consciousness and feeling. Change your approach to the world from an it consciousness to a thou consciousness. When everyone and everything is sacred, how will you behave toward them?
Day 291
The Chariot
The Chariot is the symbol for causation, movement, and the triumph of the human will over fear and adversity. The Chariot depicts the torso of a man showing from inside a chariot. Above him is a canopy of stars and beneath him are two sphinxes (one black and one white) that pull the chariot. The image evokes the archetype of human control over base instincts. The canopy of stars represents the heavens ultimately influencing earthly activity. The card suggests that through divine inspiration, we create movement and action in the world.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Chariot draws attention to the questioner’s willpower. Have the questioner explore the influence of her will on the subject at hand. Examine all motivations. Are they strong or weak? What is pulling this questioner’s chariot? If there is little motivation behind action, it will result in minimal results and vice-versa.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine a situation in which you would like movement or action to take place. Vividly bring to mind all of the characters and situations that come together to form the situation. Once you have this in your mind’s eye, begin to breathe deeply. On each exhalation, imagine that you imbue the situation with a brilliant light. Fill each person involved with your motivating energy until all that you see before you is a brilliant light. Now allow the light to fade. As it does, envision the situation changing to reflect the preferred outcome.
Daily Practice
Keep the Chariot card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. As you act throughout your day, take mental note of what motivates you. Are you moved by fear? Anxiety? Greed? Anger? Hope? At the day’s end, journal about the experience and note what it was that motivated you the most. What do your motivating factors say about you? How would you like to change this?
Day 292
Strength
The Strength card symbolizes internal strength, spiritual strength, and the triumph of love over all. The Strength card depicts a woman controlling the gaping mouth of a lion. Her face is meditative, not strained. The power that she uses comes from sources beyond physical strength. Around her waist is a garland of roses, which represents love. Above her head is the lamniscate, a symbol for eternity. The card suggests that we derive true strength from the divine. In pagan practice, the greatest strength of all emerges from love for the natural world. This is not the sexual love of the Lovers, but agape—a universal love.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, Strength encourages the questioner to literally summon her strength. Remind the questioner that she must remain calm in the situation at hand and she should allow the strength of the universe to fill her and guide her through to the resolution. There is no outward, straining effort required of the situation, so the questioner should stop struggling. The strength needed in the situation is a serene, inner strength. Have the questioner assess her level of inner strength. Is she up to the task? Why or why not? Ask what steps she must take to summon strength.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you stand near a cliff pounded by the ocean’s waves. Observe the serene strength of the cliff. Observe how it requires no effort. It stands by its own natural strength. In a flash, you become the cliff. Feel your sturdiness, your mass. Feel how the ocean swirls and crashes against you, yet does not move you in the slightest. Breathe deeply. With each inhalation you draw into your being this sturdy inner strength of the cliff. When you feel as though you have assumed the full virtues of the sea cliff, open your eyes.
Daily Practice
Keep the Strength card with you at all times today, or place it on your altar. As you go throughout your day try taking action with a sense of calm courage. Try the meditation above and then go about your day doing your normal activities as though you were this great, poised, unmovable cliff. How might this internalized image affect your daily life?
Day 293
The Hermit
The Hermit card symbolizes universal wisdom. The Hermit stands alone upon a snow-capped peak. He holds up a lantern containing a hexagon—a six-pointed star. This symbol represents the joining of two alchemical symbols/principles that you have already learned. It is the merging of earth and air. From the center point of this cosmic elemental meeting comes wisdom. He represents the human being who has relinquished his name, his titles, and honors to become nothing less than life itself. Once you open up and release the personal ego in favor of the impersonal (the natural energy that is your essence), wisdom begins to flow.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Hermit asks the questioner how she might be personalizing. The Hermit suggests that the questioner step back to recognize her life situation as an impersonal interplay of energy. It is one more manifestation of the yin and the yang, the light and the dark. The Hermit asks the questioner to take stock of what really matters here. The bigger picture, which includes questions of life and death, of existence itself, of life’s meaning lie at the core of the issue in the questioner’s mind. If the questioner were to summon her inner wisdom she could use the situation at hand to propel her into discovering her life’s purpose. The card may also suggest that the questioner may meet someone who will guide her with the Hermit’s impersonal wisdom.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you walk upward along a mountain path. Continue walking and notice that the further you climb the mountain, the more silent you become internally. When you reach the peak, you find a robed old man. Ask him what question you would like. Do not waste his time by ignoring his counsel. Do as the Hermit instructs you. Once you receive your message, open your eyes and take action.
Daily Practice
Keep the Hermit card with you or place it on your altar today. Go someplace in nature where you can be alone. Sit in silence, taking in the sights and sounds of your environment. If you have a situation that needs attention in your life, watch the natural world around you to see if it can offer you any wisdom. For example, a bird in flight may suggest that you get an overview of the situation. The sound of crickets may tell you to count your blessings. Who knows what it all may mean to you? You do. What is important is that you open up and let the wisdom of your own nature come forward.
Day 294
The Wheel of Fortune
The Wheel of Fortune symbolizes fate, destiny, and the true nature of reality. The Wheel of Fortune is an eight-spoked disk. Girding the disk are four archetypal images that correspond to zodiacal end elemental energies: The bull is Taurus (earth), the lion Leo (fire), the eagle is Scorpio (water), and the angel is Aquarius (air). Anubis, the jackal-headed god of the Egyptian underworld myths, supports the wheel. Here Anubis represents knowledge of one’s own death as a fact of life. Opposite of Anubis is a snake descending from the sky. This represents form emerging from pure energy. The Wheel of Fortune reminds us that life is chancy. There are no rules except those we ourselves impose. Right, wrong, good, evil—all descriptions we can assign to the world are merely products of our own projections and life conditioning.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Wheel of Fortune points out the unpredictability of life. Remind the questioner that the outcome of her situation has little to do with human effort. Things simply happen as they happen. It is how we interpret the events and outcomes of our lives that cause us joy or suffering. Expect the unexpected. The questioner should explore her expectations and learn to come to a place of neutrality. She should release her insistence on some particular outcome.
Meditation
Close your eyes and bring into your imagination your current life situation. Now change the image to show your desired outcome. Take note of how this causes you to feel. Now change the image to show an undesirable outcome. Take note of how this causes you to feel. When you are finished, ask yourself this question: Why is it that one outcome versus another causes you peace of mind or emotional turmoil? Is it the outcome that propels your emotions? Or is it your interpretation of how things ought to be? Contemplate any habitual grasping on to personal desires and how this might contribute to a deluded, disempowered life.
Daily Practice
Keep the Wheel of Fortune card with you or place it on your altar. Whatever actions you take today, make your best efforts and accept the outcomes—no matter what they may be. Stay focused on the quality of your efforts as opposed to the outcome or effect. As Vietnamese author Thich Nhat Hanh says, “There is washing the dishes to get them clean, and then there is washing the dishes to wash the dishes.”87
Day 295
Justice
The Justice card is the archetype of balance and it stands for spiritual justice. The Justice card depicts a figure seated between two pillars that represent a state of equilibrium. In one hand, the figure holds an upright sword, while the other hand holds the scales of justice. Our usual depiction in Western cultures is justice as the blindfolded figure. However, this card represents spiritual justice, which moves beyond our concepts of fairness and equality. Nature does not manifest itself in a state of fairness or equality as we understand these terms in the usual way. All human beings are not created equally; some of us are tall, our levels of intellect vary, and we all have unique interests and skills. It is true that all things are ultimately expressions of one great cosmic energy, but the justice of nature is simply how the world unfolds for us right here. Spiritual justice, then, moves beyond our usual notions of fairness and equality to reflect a natural state of balance.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Justice card asks the questioner to consider where she might be making judgments. In the ways of the Wise, it is well known that a person who discriminates and pulls the world apart through conceptualization is someone who ultimately loses power. Spiritual power emerges from aligning with the natural flow of the given situation. Have the questioner explore how she might achieve her own state of balance in the situation.
Meditation
Close your eyes and visualize a situation that you believe is causing difficulty in your life. Allow the image of this scene to become a blur of many colors. The colors blend and become a single hue. Simultaneously, imagine that you become hollow. Then imagine this empty space within you becoming the entire universe of planets, stars, and vast empty space. Once you see this, inhale deeply, taking in the color that represented your situation. See the color pass through you and dissipate in the vast neutrality of empty space.
Daily Practice
Keep the Justice card with you or place it on your altar. Focus your attention on your judgments and discriminations throughout the day. You do not have to change your actions or your thoughts. However, at the end of the day, take time to consider how often you deferred to the judging, discriminating mind. How did your thoughts influence your actions and decisions? How might daily judgment-influenced action add up to change the course of your life? What might a judging mind keep you from achieving or attaining? How does it affect your relationships with other people? How does it affect how you relate to the world?
Day 296
The Hanged Man
The Hanged Man represents the wisdom the one gains through effort or through enduring difficulties. The card depicts a man hanging upside down from a branch. His arms are folded behind his back (much like the arm position one encounters in traditional Wiccan initiatory rites). The figure does not appear to suffer; he appears calm despite his circumstance. An aura glows around his head. The figure represents the wisdom one gains through shocking initiatory insights or difficult life circumstances. The Hanged Man reminds us to wisely choose the circumstances into which we will direct our energies and which ones require us to surrender to life’s flow.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Hanged Man suggests that the questioner’s current situation will result in important life lessons. Shocks, surprises, or unpleasant circumstances may be involved in the learning process. There is a quality about the questioner’s life that has gone yet unexamined, and now is the time to unflinchingly face the stark truth. The Hanged Man is suggesting that the questioner should not struggle against that which cannot be fought.
Meditation
This meditation is designed to help you learn to release to life and to embrace the power of surrendering. Close your eyes and begin to take deep breaths. Imagine that you stand before the ocean. Waves are crashing powerfully against the shore. Walk into the ocean and feel that it is warm and soothing. Allow the waves to sweep over your body. With each wave that caresses you, imagine that you become increasingly transparent. Slowly you become one with the tide itself. See yourself as nothing but ocean—a tide that moves in and out, free and boundless.
Daily Practice
Keep the Hanged Man card with you or place it on your altar. Difficulties do not cease of their own accord. When left unattended, they become worse, uglier, and meaner. Do not run any further from a difficult life situation. Face it today. Get to the bottom of it. Determine what it is you can and cannot do.
Day 297
Death
Death symbolizes transformation. The card depicts a skeletal figure riding on horseback. The death figure carries the banner of the mystic rose, an occult symbol for the life principle. These two polar symbols (the skeleton and the rose) represent the emergence of life from death.
In contemplating death thoroughly, one always arrives at the conclusion that there can be no life without death. The universe is, metaphorically, an “on” and “off” system; it is a system of alternating light and dark, life and death. However, in the background of our minds broods a fear that this alternation of forces may not be true, and that the death principle will ultimately triumph. Many of us live with the fear that nonexistence will overcome existence and that death really means extinction. Since the “existence” part of life is the only component that we can physically experience, we mistakenly assume that all is lost at death. However, the life force continues on beyond our physical senses. The life force, the energy that makes up your essence, is an eternal element. It is always ready to take new forms.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, the Death card represents transformation. The questioner is facing a situation that either requires a transformation of consciousness, or can mean a pivotal, life-changing event. Ask the questioner what it is she must do to change her approach to her current situation. How is the questioner not living fully? The card may mean that the questioner needs to psychologically let go of something—and allow its death. The card may also signify that death is currently a significant issue in the questioner’s life.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you stand before the skeletal death figure from the tarot card. He will point to an open grave, freshly dug in the earth. Peer into the grave and you will see a scene from your life that requires change. Ask this skeletal figure what must be done in the situation. After you hear the words of death, open your eyes. Heed death’s advice and move into action.
Daily Practice
Keep the Death card with you or place it on your altar. Imagine that this is the last day of your life. Go about your usual day with this “final day” attitude. How will you approach this day knowing it is your last?
Day 298
Temperance
Temperance represents the psychological state of mind called detachment. This card depicts a winged figure—probably an angel—with a solar disk emblazoned on his forehead. The solar disk at the center of the brow represents a state of mind that is immortal. The sun has no shadow (unlike the moon); symbolically the sun goes untouched by time, by aging and death. The winged figure carefully pours water from one vessel to another, signifying the strict attention one should pay to the details of life.
Divinatory Meaning
In a reading, Temperance represents detachment. The questioner is asked to find out how she is too close to the situation to make rational decisions. How is over-involvement clouding her judgment? The questioner would benefit from stepping back from her situation in order to gain perspective. It is time to take action based on cool-headed, rational thinking. The questioner should examine the situation rationally before committing to further involvement.
Meditation
Close your eyes and imagine that you stand in a great, grassy field on a clear, sunny day. Hold in your mind a question about your life that stirs your emotions. Take several deep breaths and then look to the sky. From above comes a spiral of colored light. The complexities of light are too great to define, but this spiral swirls down around your body. As it does, it transforms you. It also transforms the question you hold in your mind. This swirl of light sweeps away all of your emotional ties to the situation at hand and leaves you with a clear mind. The spiral of light recedes to the heavens again. Now that your mind is clear, what is the best action for you to take in the situation—if any?
Daily Practice
Keep the Temperance card with you or place it on your altar. For the duration of the day, attend to the small details of your life. The gods are in the details, so go find them there!
Day 299
The Devil
The Devil represents illusion. Pagans understand that the devil was a creation of a hierarchical monotheistic spiritual system and it was used to frighten and coerce the native Europeans into practicing Christianity. In light of this, it is fair to say that there is no such thing as the devil. It represents any illusory principle, idea, or fiction that holds individuals in bond-age. The Devil card depicts a bat-winged, horned devil with an inverted pentagram above his head. Attached to the cube upon which the devil sits are a male and female figure. Both are chained loosely enough to slip away. This imagery suggests the illusory nature of our bondage to things.
Divinatory Meaning:
In a reading, the Devil represents an unhealthy attachment. The questioner may feel as though she is trapped. However, she might consider her attachments to ideas, feelings, or perhaps the situation itself. No one is trapped here. Why is this questioner clinging? What is important to grasp so tightly? Have the questioner explore her illusory chains.
Meditation
Before you begin, take a moment to consider a difficult situation you face. Then close your eyes and imagine that you stand at the base of the Devil’s cube (as depicted in the tarot card). You are chained to the cube. Notice that the chain is made up of words. These words tell you what it is that binds you in an unhealthy way to the situation. You will notice that the chains are loose around your neck. As you begin to slip them off, the devil figure will tell you all of the reasons why you must stay in the situation. Simply listen and take note of how the beliefs you hold keep you bound. Once you slip the chains off, the devil figure disappears. Open your eyes and note how much freer you feel.
Daily Practice
Keep the Devil card with you or place it on your altar. Take note today of your attachments. Keep a written record of the ideas, concepts, beliefs, and attitudes on which you insist. Are there friends or even enemies that remain tied to you based only on your conceptualizations (and not the presenting reality)? How has the “devil” of grasping controlled you?
Day 300
Contemplative Day:
The Innermost Name
Meditative Question: What is the innermost secret name of deity?
Symbolic Color: White
Symbolic Direction: Nowhere and everywhere
Don’t let the seeming impossibility of the question stump you. This contemplative question aims at completely cutting through concepts. The question gives nothing to think about, therefore it gives nothing to latch onto as you meditate on its meaning. With time, you will arrive at a powerful and consciousness-changing conclusion.
This question is the second in the final series of four inner mysteries. Remember that it is advisable to work with each of these inner-mysteries contemplations while sitting within the center of your magic circle.
Find a comfortable meditative sitting position in the center of your circle. Light a white candle and sit approximately two feet away from the flame. Cast your gaze upon the flickering candle and hold the question firmly for 20 to 30 minutes. Close the circle after this, but keep the question with you. Allow yourself to embody the question, and over time you will arrive at your own insight.