All Hallow's eve, when the veil is thin 2

Ideas and spells


When All Hallows eve approaches, the Autumn is already well settled in, the days are shorter and nights darker. For most of the population this time is associated with popularized and commercialized festivities, dressing up and scary movie marathons on TV, seen in dark but warm and cozy atmosphere with a lot of candies at hand.
But do some people know better ? Which people ? Ah yes, witch people  indeed . Occult community is rarely bothered with such profane celebrations, because they understand the true meaning behind this gloomy but powerful holiday.
For witch, occultist or any other magick practitioner, this is time of both action and introspection. Time to embrace the darker aspect of oneself to draw power and learn from it. To “ride the broom” metaphorically and ( why not ) astraly  Well now, on the historical background and symbolism of the Holliday as well as correspondences I have written some time ago here http://shadowsmagickplace.blogspot.com/2010/10/all-hallows-eve-night-when-veil-is-thin.html


And here are few ideas You could do Yourself, with just a bit of effort and time, to celebrate this time of power when the veil between the worlds is so very thin and “anything” is possible. Ideas may seem “different” than commonly suggested necromantic spells , divinations and spirit honoring ( of which I wrote in previously mentioned post, above given link ) as they encompass not so typical goals for this particular time of year . However this is a time when one can tap to great sources of magickal power, so why limit oneself , be creative , Carpe diem 

Green pumpkin spell

This is a rather nifty and according to broad experience very powerful prosperity spell employing pumpkins

Into a a carved, prepared pumpkin, with candle lit, place a square piece of fabric in which You have previously placed pine needles, lavender leafs , Saffron roots, and few crystals of sea salt. Fabric must be green, herbs placed inside like in sachet ( sew or paste if You need ), and is placed inside pumpkins mouths. I suppose that symbolizes “feeding the spirits” . Then through the “eyes and nose” of the pumpkin a single silver coin is passed into pumpkin, through each, meaning three altogether, two eyes opening and one nose. Now the spell source said how the spell is middle- aged, hence I would suppose silver coins where a every-day common thing at the time. I suppose we could use our volute nowadays. Through the pumpkin openings also add one silver and one gold piece of thread or yarn with ten knots previously knotted. Source further notes how the spell brings financial increase in few days or less. [1]

You could do something similar, place a green candle in pumpkin and freely add some sesame seed, rice and perhaps some corn, pine needles and patchouli or basil leafs as You speak some soothing incantation

“I honor the spirits in this Sacred night
Thirst and hunger may be quenched
So they’ll put misfortune to flight
And bring to me/us some needed wealth ! “

The symbolisms should be clear here, seeds used represent prosperity and food , given to spirits to honor and appease them in hope they’ll do same for us

Power pumpkin spell

Carve some symbol, like pentacle on pumpkin instead of commonly seen faces. Place inside a purple candle, some Solomon seal roots or Sandalwood chips, Indigo powder , or some Echinacea root and add some Mullein leaves and Lavender or Rosemary. Light two more white candles next to the pumpkin so that they form a triangle with one inside. Place Opal, or Onyx stone inside the pumpkin, near the candle base.

If You have , dress candles with some appropriate oil, such as "Master key" or "Power oil" or "Black arts even" , though that’s optional. Light that purple candle inside the pumpkin and chant seven times :

When veils between the worlds are thin,
And spirits walk among the living
We embrace dark/shadow outside and within
Seeking the power ever growing
Old ones , Once before me
I Invoke You, Aid me
In my quests, Spirits, bless me
And with power, gift me !
And by the power of the Three
As I wish, so mote it be !

Let the candles burn themselves out. Some of the remaining wax from the pumpkin candle, white candles and herbs and roots from pumpkin place in some nice, new indigo or purple pouch bag, along with that crystal You used. Carry or employ in rituals for extra power. Replace each year, burring or burning the last year’s contents, all but stone which You may use again.

All Hallows eve second sight potion

Wiccans and witches commonly ritually consume ( drink ) Absinthe , also called “Green Fairy”, on this day. However Absinthe is very strong , and has large percent of both alchohol and psychoactive alkaloids, hence it’s not suitable for minors or those that cannot really handle alcohol. Also If You simply desire to attain divinatory prolific effect of it, but not the intoxicating effect ( lol ) try this potion instead:
• Teaspoon of chopped, dry dandelion roots
• Teaspoon of Mugwort, herb, dry
• Teaspoon of Yarrow flowers
• Very nice pinch of Cinnamon
• Few rose petals or Wild rose buds OPTIONAL
Pour a cup of boiling spring water over the herbs and cover for 13 minutes. Afterwards, stir thirteen times, strain, sweeten with honey If You wish, and drink.
One could add some chopped apple ( “fruit of knowledge” ) or peeled and grinded Ginger rhizome ( power enhancing ) to make the taste more “seasonal” and appealing.

If You can, light some candles for all that died in all sort of catastrophes and calamities last year, and for those burnt at stakes long time ago, as well as for dear and familiar spirits. Also do not forget to light protective candles, and deploy shielding charms all around and in Your dwelling, and carry with oneself, for on All Hallows eve even malevolent spirits get tht desire to “socialize” and are more pestiferous that the rest of the year. It’s also a good time to vanquish something negative , and to send it away, and as suggested above get some money coming ( which I always seem to lack :D ) and finally
Many Blessings and stay safe :)
Shadow !

NOTES: This post ( article ) was written and composed by myself, hence If You want to use it elsewhere, feel free, but add credits Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or direct link to this post. All spells, except the first green pupkin spell, were written by myself
CREDITS : [1] Spell was translated, adapted and edited by myself, from the original found in loacal ( where I live ) Occult magazine "Bakini recepti za srecu" ( lit. "Granny's recipes for luck ) NO 1. October 2011th, used for informative purposes without any ill will
IMAGE CREDITS : First image http://www.layoutsparks.com/1/168102/all-hallows-eve-night-31000.html
Second image http://www.wiccanwallpapers.com/wallpapers/all-hallows-eve-1024-x-768.jpg Used for ILLUSTRATIVE purposes only, without any ill will

FInding lost articles

In this post we will just be ( briefly ) discussing few methods of finding lost items, for there seems to be an ever-pending interest for such magick. And it’s no wonder, really, for most of people do loses something almost every day, be it just a dropped coin. As to that, apparently to find money that You might have lost all one needs to do is to “kiss a Negro” [1] rofl ;)

Hoodoo people will commonly seek aid of either Lord Himself, or St Anthony, to find lost items, usually in form of prayer. Now since it’s a method of folk magick, rather than religious praying, prayers can be made up by oneself, honestly offered anywhere, anytime and they can even appear in form of simple rhyme! Most of folk prayers to Saint Anthony for finding lost articles rhyme, and contain but few rhymes made easy to memorize and chant. It’s customary to give some sort of thanks to Lord or Saint that aided us in finding lost article.

Witches use various forms of spells, sometimes ( thought that’s rarely done ) addressing to some deities to aid them in their quest, but most frequently simply using the power of symbolism and sympathetic magick. They will often invoke aid of certain deities in restoring stolen good, and compelling theft to return them or reveal themselves ( rather cunning examples of such magick appear in Heka ) but this is another type of magick, really. Stolen articles and lost articles, though each absent from us are not the same, and therefore are not dealt with in the same manner in occultism. In Middle ages, it was said that witches and sorcerers would lay a hand on their familiars ( most often cats and birds were used for this ) and would spoke some incantation that would ask the aid of animal to help them find what they have lost. The animal would then either guide them, or would occasionally even bring back the lost article.

Another frequent method used to help finding lost items is seek of guidance through
dream incubation. Invoking aid of St. Anthony is a simple example of guidance seeking. Dream incubation might include anything from inspiring prophetic dreams or visions of lost items in dreams, to asking from guidance from Higher sources in dreams.
The best time for such magick, is really anytime, for time correspondences in such cases is often a luxury one simply cannot afford, and the urgency of finding what’s lost takes precedence. If You can however, perform magick for finding lost articles in Mercury correspondent day, hours or in time of full Moon, or in Midday. Also any days and hours good for general divination will work here as well .
Now let’s go through a few simple example, for this is, as I often stress out a “practical” blog :)

Spell to find a lost item

Take a new piece of paper, and draw as best as You are able, in all possible riches of detail, the item/s ( or even a person ) that You have lost. It’s favorable to have a light blue candle lit as You do this. Now simply wrap the paper around a lodestone ( charged ) and carry it on Your behalf and sleep on it. Alternatively, You could sprinkle some lodestone dust or brown sugar on a paper and then fold it thrice towards oneself, place in small sachet ( preferably blue or yellow ) and also carry on Your behalf and sleep on it.

Prayer/s to Saint Anthony

There is a whole host or, short rhyming folk prayers to Saint Anthony to help us find what we have lost, be it an item or a person. Sometimes they were “composed” by a single person and handled down to successors as a part of family tradition. Here are few examples:
St. Anthony, St. Anthony
Please come down
Something is lost
And can't be foundNext one comes from Chicago ;

Dear St. Anthony, I pray
Bring it back, without delay. [2]

Though You can always make up Your own, that should ( in the spirit of the tradition ) rhyme, and hence could represent, sort of Your personal way of petitioning the Saint.
For example ( my own phrasing )

St. Anthony please, help me out
Where have I lost that , to find out
Guide me and lend me clarity
Or bring the item into ( my ) proximity

Or something like that , You get the idea 

Finally, it’s wise to note here , seems that people of all traditions and roots ( origins, nationalities ) have used this ( magickal ) mean of tracking down lost stuff, be them Christians or not. It is important however that when a Saint grants Your request, You express Your gratitude ( I feel bit silly for having to point this out, but I ought to, just in case ) , and a common way of giving thanks to Saint Anthony are ex votos.
You can ask G’d, directly as described in one entry { 13161; 3rd Edition, 2002 } in anthropological Work of Henry Middletone Haytt, “Folklore in Adam County Illinois”

Scrying

Either take a piece of paper with possible locations of the item ( start with broader categories, them go on more specific one, elimination method ) or go straight forward and take a map. Light a purple candle and ask Your higher source to aid You in finding the lost item. Around the chain or cord of Your pendulum wrap the piece of paper with the description of the item, or hold ( alongside the pendulum ) any form of link to this object in Your hand. I dress the top of the crystal ( or whatever You might use as pendulum ) with “Spirit guide oil” or “Psychic vision oil”. You could use any oil associated with some specific Deity who’s help You’d like to invoke. Now simply scry ( dowse ) with the crystal as You normally would.

Guiding spell

On a piece of paper describe what You have lost on one side, and on the other, draw an All seeing eye, or AGLA symbol. Place it under glass of bowl of Blessed spring water, symbol side pointed upward.
Light Angelic Influence candle ( or any candle of nice, soothing pale blue color ) and place next to it a small glass with Blessed spring water . Place some Althaea root nearside as well, and preferably also place a piece of Quartz, or Amethyst alongside. Then chant

“Guding spirits/angels, I need Your assistance,
For I have misplaced something dear
Bless me with knowledge and clairvoyance,
And bring me to what I’ve lost, be it far or near” 3X-7X

Use just few drops of that water to dress Your third eye, and let the candle burn itself out. Wrap the paper around the crystal and sleep on this charm . In the morning pour the water outside. Carry the charm with You until You find the item. Then burn the paper, scattering ashes to the wind and giving thanks to spirits.

Dream incubation

While spell used to gain answers through dreams , not being a typical/specific “ find lost article” spell, it should be obvious how it can be constructivel y employed in such case
There are many examples throughout classical grimoires, among others perhaps that from Clavicula Solomonis, “To get answers in/through dreams"
http://www.esotericarchives.com/solomon/ksol.htm

If You have had the badfortune to misplace something, I do hope this article and ideas presented here might help : )

NOTE: This article was written and composed by myself, therefore should You desire to use any part of it elsewhere, give credits : Shadow of Shadows magick place or Shadow-333@hotmail.com or direct link to this post
CREDITS: [1] According to entry 13163 in “Folklore in Adam County Illinois” third edition, 2002th, by Harry Middletone Hyatt
[2] Source of prayers : www.luckymojo.com more precise http://www.luckymojo.com/saintanthony.html , site proprietor’s informants contributions
IMAGES source : Wikipedia, page on St Anthony http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthony_of_Padua

Many Blessings
Shadow

Magick of "live things in You"

One of the folkloric signatures/trademarks of Hoodoo is a practice of, what we could freely call a subgenera of Conjure, causing and treating “live things in You” . Rootworkers and Conjurers alike, seem to profoundly believe that it’s possible to cause animals such as snakes , insects, lizards to live inside someone’s body by means of “magickal poisoning” . Simply put, victim is fed with animal curios or powders, most often without their knowledge, and doing so being inflicted with a specific type of crossing condition called “live things in You” or simpler “live things”. Folk of Southern States will swear they’ve witnessed animals crawling under one’s skin, of those crossed, hoodooed, or cursed unfortunate individuals. In such case, they say, orthodox medicine cannot help, so the help of the root doctor ( as opposed to medical doctor ) is sought. And the rootdoctors or conjurers shall in such case prescribe versatile methods of removing this simple condition, be them simple as spreading some lard mixed with the milk of a black cow on anus, or be them as serious as making incisions and drawing blood.

Among people of Balkan peninsula, there is a similar belief still kept alive at remote mountain villages, that certain animal curios can cause, if ingested due to neglect or simple mind-slip, infection by living smaller animals or serpents. Typical example would be drinking from sprig in which horse’s hair has recently fallen in ( naturally ) , which causes snakes to live inside drinkers body. The methods of removing such “parasites” include making noises with metal dishes and dressing someone’s body with milk of a black animal, placing egg inside their mouths to draw snakes out, all often accompanied by shouting incantations. The apparent difference between Hoodoo and Eastern European people, regardin’ these beliefs, seems to be that Eastern Europeans mostly believe that infection with live things can not be caused intentionally.

Hoodoo people seem to have “inherited” this belief from Native American Indians, for this belief is prominently present in most of the Indian tribes and different traditions. Indians have always used things as frog spawns, eggs, snake eggs, animal hair to magickaly “poison” their enemies, often causing things to live inside them. However, admitably by some of very Indian witchdoctors themselves , they would often use tricks to make it seem as this phenomenon/condition took place. For example, they would dress someone’s but cheeks with mixture of honey and some chewed- up herbs, and as they finish the chants, would cunningly release the insects , previously hidden in their hands or down their sleeves. For people it was easy to believe that those animals came from inside of the affected person’s body.

In my humble opinion, it could have been that these beliefs of small animals living in someone’s body, developed simultaneously in various parts of the world. Let’s not forget that all up to late middle ages it was ( medically ) believed that various human infections are caused by small lizards or spiders living inside patient’s blood, and that the blood drawing from neck artery was standard medical procedure as well as skull perforation.

Some folklorist believe that most of such superstitions ( related to “live things inside You” ) are merely an urban legend based on some metaphorical elements of Indian or old European superstations, fueled and perpetuated by people that see it as a good chance to earn some money out of it, or scare their children from taking alcoholic beverages from strangers and suspicious people.
On the other side, many experienced and respected conjurers attest the existence of phenomenon, just not it’s frequency, to phrase myself that way. Simply put, it happens, it’s quite nasty ( from what I’ve heard, and read ), but I’s not common at all, rather actual cases are quite rar e.

Hence, it is very important for professional spiritual worker ( one that does work for others/clients ) to know how to fight or undo such condition, and bring forth healing and peace at once, for ( should I even state the obvious ) it’s excruciating and very agonizing experience.

Dealing with the condition and removing it

Throughout the years, being keenly inquisitive about the condition, I’ve encountered many methods of removing live things from someone. While very versatile, those methods , they all seem to have one common goal, expelling the live things out. So perhaps instead of uncrossing, such methods could be seen as exorcism methods ( in occult sense of the word, not religious ! ) even though they are still apotropaic methods nevertheless.

Rootworkers most commonly use roots fort this ( what a surprise  lol ) often in combination with some method of making person throw up, or drawing their blood. Sometimes, potions are given for victims to ingest, which have emetic properties, be it in magickal or medicinal sense of the word.

For example, there a method combining roots and blood drawing described in entry in Haytt’s “Folklore in Adam County, Illinois” where a man was inflicted with a living lizard and beetle in his arm. Conjure doctor tied a piece of cord, very firmly, around his arm, chewed up “some root” and spit it out in bottle. Then the root doctor drawn the blood from man’s arm, by making incision on it, then collected it in the same bottle, where he had previously spat up the roots. The members of the afflicted man’s family were strongly suggested not to inspect the content of the bottle until the root doctor would return the next day. When the root doctor came back he showed them the contents of the bottle, just to see a lizard and beetle inside. The afflicted man had gotten well since then, according to the entry , in the mentioned work. [1]
Now the roots that rootworker used in the story could have been anything really, but most commonly used are
• Poke root
• Black cohosh and
• Galangal , known also as Small John da’ chew root, or Courtcase root, ingredient of courts case and sometimes Justo Juez and African Ju Ju oil

I would not chew the Poke root too long though  emetic , very strong as to that
Now, of course rootworker from the story could have been using something else at the time, but the metioned roots are best choices to use in removal of live things. They can be brewed into some sort of potions, alone or with other ingredient such as alum and black cohosh for example. I’ve even read of using saltpeter and olive oil in combination with certain root, and giving this to sick person to ingest. [2]
Now, as I have mentioned somewhere at the beginning of the article black cow’s milk is another ingredient commonly used , often in salves or ointments used on rectum area, and in such case live animals can be drawn out through the very mentioned area.

A Santeria friend shared with me a method, that according to them anyone can try, as it’s safe and gives very good result, especially if undertaken sooner after supposed magical “infection” with live things. What You need is
• Smaller container of consecrated water
• Black hen’s egg, and
• Broom, preferably new, or the one You use in ritual cleansing

The “patient” is prayed over, for healing, while often cross marks are made over them with broom, as the Santeria practitioner prays. He or she then rolls the black hen’s egg over the whole body of the afflicted, thoughtfully as much as the occasion allows. Some of the consecrated water is then used to sprinkle clean white sheets in which the person is wrapped in. The eggs Is then broken and the contents released into the container with the remaining water. Blood or smaller animals may appear from the egg, nevertheless the whole content is disposed of, safely, burring, burning or flushing down the toilet.

My friend that shared the method with me, noted that he learned as it as a “folk cure” , not some method we could notably call Santerian. [3]

There is a method, noted as Hoodoo, but with questionable origins and even
source [4] ( though seems Hoodoo-sih to be honest ) used for expelling any foreign substance or things from body. Supposedly even live things. The “patient” is to ingest a mixture of its own urine and salt, while themselves or some conjurer is praying over them for expelling of foreign substance or thing or whatever. Something along these lines could be used as suitable words of power , composed by myself :

“Lord Christ, You had miraculously healed many, removing their plague, or demons from them. You have saved humans from damnation , sacrificing Yourself for us. Help me Lord, I cry to You, hear my prayer and release N.N. from afflictions. Remove anything impure, wicked from N.N.’s body, and heal lord. Expel any foreign matter and influence from N.N. in whatever form they might have, and let them never return. Like You removed the Legion, like You healed the lepers , and restored the sight to blind, heal and restore to pure and healthy state N.N. once again. Have mercy upon us, weak humans, for we trust in You Lord, deliver us and save us, as You have always done! And we will praise You every day, for Your infinite love and grace towards us, eternal glory to Father ( + ), Son ( + ) and Holy spirit ( + ) Amen !!!”

Now please note that removing live things from someone , if You are to ever find oneself before such task, is very complex and with very uncertain outcome, for its serious affliction that can sometime result in fatal outcome. Spiritual workers are either trained well for such work or they might have what they call “cure hand” , meaning a gift to heal such and alike conditions, as described in one particular case here
www.southern-spirits.com/holloway-live-things.html
Courtesy of Southern Spirits website proprietor .

Please have all that in mind before trying to help someone, If You do not see Yourself competent, or If You have the slightest doubts, contact a professional rootworker

Hopefully thought, this was tad ghastly , but informative article

NOTES: This article was composed and written by myself, so If You wish to use any part of it elswhere, feel free as long as You provide credits ; Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post
CREDITS: [1] " Folklore from Adam County Illinois " Harry Middletone Haytt, enetry no [2] Some recipes with Black Cohosh , Alum and other mentioned, regarding classical rootwoork can be found, detailed in "Hoodoo herb and root magic" by Catherine Yronwode, [3] Informant's contribution, thanks Serp ;) [4] source of the infromation is unclear, as the method description can be found on various places online, in public domain
IMAGES , the second image showing Black Cohosh plant is from 123rf.com, used here for illustrative purposes only , with no ill will, the first image is my own humble scrible :)

Many Blessings, Shadow !!

Holly , Sacred Druidry plant

Hoodoo makes use of Holly, most often, as sort of doorway guardian amulet and in incenses for blessing dwellings. It is believed that the use of the very plant is “imported” from European lore, perhaps through Christianity. Therefore it is important that we understand the “original” plant’s lore. Conjurers also say how this plant is reputed to attratct helpful spirits into the household.


Old Northern European legends speak of continuous rivalry , and an annual battle for dominion over the Nature between Oak and Holly. Two sacred trees, that Celtic Druid saw kind of twins like, with Holly being like black Oak. Being equal in power , they would defeat one another periodically, and their dominion would be divided on equal parts throughout the year.[1]
That way Oak would rule nature from Winter Solstice to Summer Solstice, and the darker, evergreen Holly would rule the nature from Summer Solstice to Winter Solstice, when most of the trees are bare, leafless and fruitless. Considering that fact, it is only logical that people use branches and loops as protective botanicals against spirits of Darkness and against misfortune. It was also believed by cunning folk to have power to peace the beasts, and invoke kind and helpful spirits to household. It is also said to be powerful guardian against poisons , thunder and evil spirits [1]

In Christianity, Holly became an very important plant often symbolizing Lord Christ ( respectfully ). It is very possible that the reverence of the plant in Christianity , was adopted from celebration of Yule and Roman Saturnalia. Be it so or not, the Holly was even included in paintings depicting Saints and their life, one fine example being painting of the anonymous author, known as “Master of the Holy family” , who painted seven leafs ( ! ) of Holly on triptych painting depicting life Virgin Mary, called "Seven joys of Virgn" . Christians see pale white flowers of Holly as symbol of Christ’s birth and innocence, it’s red fruits as symbolic of Blood of Christ, and finally it’s thorny leaves are symbolic of Lord’s thorny Crown.


In occultism, Holly represents masculine principle and it Mars/Fire correspondent plant, which can explain its reputation as powerful exorcism agentIvy is said to be its female counterpart, often assisting it in spiritual fights and empowering It , while often entwining it’s trunk as well. It’s even used in some beauty spells , such as Winter Queen water, of which I wrote here :http://shadowsmagickplace.blogspot.com/2011/07/conjure-beautiful-you.html

Now , briefly on the botanical information. Despite the fact we will commonly call Holly a tree, it’s actual ecological form ( life form ) is an evergreen shrub. In magck we use three species mostly , one of which is not commonly called Holly
- Ilex aquifolium, common ( European ) Holly with thorny edged leafs
- Ilex opaca, which differs botanically from the previous by only one taxonomic marker, leafs edges here do not have spines, and those two species are used interchangeably.
- Ilex parguaruensis known also as Yerba Mate, indigenous to Southern USA, used largely into Santeria and Palo, known also as Palo Espanta Muerte, and despite being another species of same gender, does not share magickal correspondences with common Holly, it’s a separate magickal plant , with its proprietary uses and will not be discussed in this post

Holly leaves are used in herbal medicine as analeptic, analgetic , anti-rheumatic and have few other minor uses.

Here are a few of recipes ( ideas on how to use Holly )

Door Guaradian

Make a loop out of braches of Holly or on a branch of Holly hung a piece of Angelica root and three De**l shoestrings. Such door guardian, form of Gris Gris, will secure the entrance where hung on door lintel so no evil may cross the protected threshold [2]

Blessed home condition oil

• Holly leaves
• Cumin seeds
• White rose , or white rose petals
• Frankincense resin
• Benzoin resin
All to base of preferably Olive oil or Almond oil, with a Capsule of Vit.E capsule. If You have, You could use Frankincense and Benzoin essential oils instead of resin. Or , optionally You could a dd Sandalwood and/ or Rosemary essential oils to scent condition oil and bring about peaceful vibration ( as they often ingredients of Peaceful home products ).

Beast calming powder

Combine

• Holly leafs
• Horehound
• Lavender

Pulverize, sprinkle in front, or blow at animals and beasts, to subdue them to peaceful and calm state.

NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, therfore should You desire to use any part of it elswhere, feel free but do add credits Shadow of Shadows magick place or Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post.
CREDITS: [1] According to Cunningham Scott, stated in his "Encyclopedia of magic(k)al herbs"
[2] Inspired by Catherine Yronwode's entry ( about Holly ) in her "Hoodoo herb and root magick" book
Images, came from www.wikitionary.org , tribe.tribe.net and finally Ogham symbol for Tinne ( or Holly ) was a common picture edited by myself. Pictures used here are without ill will and for illustrative purposes only

Many light Blessings, Shadow !

Prophet's supper

Here is something I have recently came up with, inspired by an entry on cinnamon in a certain book on herbal magick. The entry, among other, suggested eating toast bread with honey, sprinkled with cinnamon, prior to sleep to inspire precognitive dreaming
So I said it to myself, why not make it slightly more elaborated, and here is a simple “menu” I came up with
What You’ll need :
Toast bread with honey or jam ( If using jam, perhaps the Wild rose jam would be most suited )
Some cinnamon, some Mace powdered
Tablespoon of Rose petals, teaspoon of Mugwort, teaspoon of Yarrow , Spring water, Honey and some nice stylish glass

Instructions


1.Bevrage/Drink/Potion

Make a tea ( infusion ) using the following herbal mixture
• Tbs of Rose petals
• Ts of Mugwort
• Ts of Yarrow flowers
Pouring a 2-3dl ( 6-8 oz’s ) of Spring water ( If You happen to have it, use Lunar Slime ) . You can optionally add a pinch of Cinnamon as well. Leave it to sit for about 13mins, strain, and sweeten with Honey If You wish, and/or some Orange juice.
Serve in a fine vine glass or even Your chalice.

2. Meal

Smear some honey over Your toast bread. Sprinkle it with some Cinnamon powder and just a small pinch of Mace , powdered or grinded.


3. Bless, Serve and Enjoy

Some might feel inclined ( those legal people I hope lol ) to have some Absinthe with this, but I composed the “menu” targeting different age groups, and considering some , let’s call it “universal” taste. So this could be seen as “eclectic” , universal recipe, with simple sweet flavor that should be acceptable to most people.

NOTES: Written and composed by myself, so feel free to use elswhere ( online ) as long as You provide credits, Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post. Pictures were taken by myself


Bon appetite and many Blessings , from Shadow ! :)

Orthodox Christian’s ( folk ) magick and Mother Mary

The spell ( rather custom ) suggestions are made according to folk magick, as practiced ( here, where I am ) in Balkan. This does not mean they are reserved only for Christians ,or Balkan people, by no means that’s so. If You do not mind, the Christianized versions of these folk spells, You can use them , regardless on Your spiritual path and preferencess. These spells ( let’s call them that ) are before all folk spells, originating from Balkan peninsula folk magick, and have attained Christian elements later, but with good reasons, as experience has taught Eastern European cunning folk , how very proficient is to include Christianity in their magickal practices. I should just add here , that ( in short ) the folk magick of Balkan Penissula and most of the Eastern Europe is based on Slavic paganism, Magick of Vlasi ( tribe called Volos by Romans that had once inhabited southern Balkan peninsula, and some still do ), old ( not clearly defined ) magickal system associated with Druids that had once lived along the river Dunav, and folklore of Celt s and Romans that had lived there at certain point. In the very south of Eastern Europe ( Central and Southern Montenegro , Southern Croatia ) there are archeological findings of earliest form of Viking runes and certain spells, that are saved from oblivion by what’s now nearly lost oral tradition. With the Christianization of Balkan peninsula, ( being ) highly practical cunning folk of Eastern Europe, saw the power of Christian religion, and included it in their rituals, so You can find incantations calling both power of such chthonic creatures as Destinies ( org. in Serbian language Sudjaje, literarily ; those that judge )and Holy Trinity. So called “red letters” ( Orthodox Christian Saints feast days , dates in calendar when they are venerated ) became like Solomonic time and Hour correspondences in Western occultism, honoring both Saints and sometimes also chtonic spirits or even animals. These ( along with the eight holidays of the wheel of the year ) were/are seen as time of power, a opportunity to tap into the source of powerful and useful spiritu al energies. Folk of Balkan saw the amazing power of Christian G’d and Saints, and incorporated these in their spirituality, both for empowerment and social acceptance. See, in Balkan peninsula church has never executed a single witch ( or alleged witch ) but people did, and many of them. Furthermore Orthodox Christian ( as prevalent on most of Balkan ) church was highly against burning or drowning of people, accused of witchcraft. Acknowledging and respecting G’d and Saints meant that such practitioner is kind and practices magick for healing and uncrossing purposes mostly, so such people were left alone by ignorant and enraged villagers, seeking someone to blame for calamities that would happen form time to time.

I aimed to make a brief post with few suggestions, but as usually got sidetracked, by discussing historical ( folkloric , anthropological ) backgrounds of folk magick and or ethics and reason of/for the same. Sorry about that, I just wanted to help those who might be unfamiliar of occult practices in the Eastern Europe ( and Balkan ) to get a better idea of ways of beliefs of locals there . And without further ado, here are spell suggested to be performed on 28th of August, a day associated with The Most Holy Virgin Mary in Orthodox Christian calendar :

Midnight and Noon prayers

It is customary ( especially by women ) here on Balkan, to go out in Mindinght between 27th and 28th of August, and in secluded place pray to Mother Mary to guide them and aid in resolving of any problems. Then on noon ( Midday ) of 28th of August they repeat the prayer.
It is believed that on this day Mother Mary had fallen asleep, and that her soul had ascended miraculously to Heaven, leaving the room where she was illuminated, and odorous with scents from beyond physical world. So Eastern European keep this day in mind, as miraculous, with extremely strong wish energy, and as such, a brilliant chance for prayers directed to Mother Mary to be “heard” and answered. Some people visit up to 50 churches dedicated to Mother Mary, leaving prayers written on paper addressed to “Virgin Mary” or “Theotokos” , seeking healing, deliverance or simply some good fortune.
Catholics on Balkan peninsula venerate this day on 15th of August ( difference between Gregorian and Julian calendar ), and they have a custom to go herb gathering on this day, as they believe each herb gathered on this Holly day is even more powerful medicine, and charm.

Onion peel uncrossing water

On this day, Christian folk would ( early in the morning ) get out , and search in gardens ( their own or neighboring ones lol ) and pull red onions . And not any onion, the first onion plucked from garden for that year. Some would additionally pluck nine more onions , after that first one, to use in making some sort of uncrossing oil. The first onion plucked, is than peeled, and the peels are boiled in water for half an hour ( I use about a liter of spring water ). Then the infusion is left to sit for 3 hours. After that “Prayer to the Venerable Cross” is read over the pan with water, above which Cross signs are made with hand, often, as prayer is spoken/read. The water is then strained to bottle, through a cheesecloth, and kept in cool and dark place until needed. Some people also read prayers to Virgin Mary, as the onion bulbs are considered to be ( among some other plants ) sacred to Mother Mary, hence why plucking them on this very day. This water is therefore considered sort of “Holy water” , used for healing, warding off evil and blessing.

It’s used to wash heads those afflicted with unnatural ( magickaly induced )conditions, added to baths, or used as house sprinkle ( white walls might get stained though ). If the dwelling was heavily afflicted with bad energy, harmful magick or hauntings , some of that water would be poured in a vessel ( let’s say a bottle , I myself use few teaspoons of Onion water on 1/2l bottle ) and 3 pinches of salt, sugar and garlic ( preferably powdered or finely chopped of grinded ) were added to it, over that tap water was poured to fill the vessel, and the resulting potion was used to kill the power of evil conjuration targeting that particular house /dwelling/room. Such “spiced” onion water was considered to be among the best “cures” for Haunted and demonically y or poltergeist infected houses.


"Triple power" Basil

The following custom is most likely to be originating from Greek Orthodox church. Basil is believed ( by Orthodox Christians ) to be a Holly plant, that grows in paradise along with Roses in astonishing amount. It’s also a sacred plant to Virgin Mary, and by one of ( many ) myths associated with it, started to grow on Virgin Mary’s grave. Be it how it was, on 28th of August, Basil is taken ( potted or in sprigs ) to Churches, which are are decorated with it, but folk will have some to hold in hand during the service , and to take home with them afterwards. The priest will bless all the Basil plants present in the church during the service, meaning, ones used for decoration and those that faithful people brought with them. Such ( blessed ) Basil was/ is believed to have apotropaic powers, that could ward of or destroy even the most powerful malignant forces, and strengthen highly any love or prosperity spells, charms or incantations. Some people place it in small red pouches and carry on themselves or hung in and about the house for ongoing protection. If potted it may be kept in pot in room, to secure no evil may remain place hollowed by plants presence.

Prayer candle

A large beeswax candle can be afixed to the bottom of some fireproof vessel, then the spring water is poured inside, Basil leafs crumbled, St John wort as well and finally, Lilly flower is added. Then one prayes for Blessings, protection and fortune. Prayers or hymns to Mother Mary can be used too, such as

"It is truly meet and right to bless you, O Theotokos,
Ever blessed and most pure, and the Mother of our God.
More honorable than the Cherubim, and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim,
Without defilement you gave birth to God the Word.
True Theotokos, we magnify you!" [1]

Then the candle is left to burn itself out, and the water used to sprinkle house and to wash people, and the remaining wax and plants are left somwhere in Your own yard.


NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, based on folklore and beliefs of people where I live , and with some help of Anthropologic literature available to me ( authors such as Dr Kazimirovic, Jasna Jojic Pavlovski , local authors highly respected ) among which „Kalendar za srećne dane – verovanja i obi-čaji evropskih naroda" by mentioned Jasna Jojic Pavlovski, which was the source for Onion water information and custom of Midnight and Noon prayers information. Otherwise text was composed by myself, and reflects my own experiences and ways I was taught by cunning folk I've been fortunate to speak to ( or rather interview them lol ) or is result of my own insight and inspiration. Therefore should You desire to use any part of this text elsewhere, feel free but do give credits ; Shadow-333@hotail.com or direct link to this post.
[1] The Hymn and the image are from http://orthodoxwiki.org/Theotokos , with no ill will used, presented here for educational purposes.

Many Blessings, Shadow

Mars and warrior spirit magick

Some people are born warriors, be them physically, or mentally strong. Some rely on their leadership qualities and/or their power of persuasion. Others chose to be pacifists and go through life following that maxima how nice ( magickal ) word opens the iron doors. No mental ( physical even less ) profile of human being is perfect, and will not guarantee victory over other , as such. Yet we are faced with so many enemies, drawn willingly or unwillingly into so many fights, verbal, physical, magickal etc. Where does it all ends, if it ends at all ? Both Charles Darwin and Sigmund Freud ( with smaller differences ) claimed humans are by nature selfish and lead by self-preservation instinct before all. Freud called that “idd” . Oddly enough, in the age when human mind is supposed to had already evolved above profanity of animal behavior, we find ourselves growling on each other, threatening with “fangs” and claiming absolute possession over partners, or territory. The fact that our behavior is “wrapped in pink wrap with pretty ribbons” does not make it any less animalistic. Because of all that, those of more kind nature, those lunatics, leanin g towards servility,  might find themselves faced to  the roar of some large gnarly beasty human, and forced into “survival of the strongest” cliché.
This is why ( where, when, read as You like lol ) magick designed to empower oneself, boost our courage, physical strength or stamina, defeat opponents, is needed and very much alive even nowadays. Liked it we or not, world is a jungle, and in jungle strength is an imperative. When faced to any type of battle/s, or frightening mission with uncertain outcome, Mars magick can come quite handy indeed. Drawings depicting hunt, dating to prehistoric times and stone age, are perhaps the very simple examples of sympathetic, warrior type magick. Before actually hunting down an animal, cave man would “conjure” the event on the walls using charcoal or whatever worked as a fine drawing tool at that point. But instead of further pseudo-phylospohic rambling of mine, let’s rather “get down on the business” as people from States would say 

Magick of empowerment and correspondences

Warrior magick , as I coved the name ( yeah, not that good at name coving :/ lol ) is not the same as battle, war magick or offensive magick. It’s the magick of self empowerment and increasing our chances to win.
Corresponding element would be fire ( action, power among other attributes ), corresponding planet Mars, corresponding day Tueseday , noon as the time of day is most preferable for such operations,  or during hours of Mars, while colors include red and purple, and symbols anything from swords to pentacles of King Solomon.
The symbol from the above pictur e is brilliant for such Mars/empowerment type of magick and can be inscribed to candles  or used as a part of talisman

Additionally Saturn correspodneces can be used, particularly if we are to deal with offensive magick, or unjust and cruel opponent .

Fiery warrior spell

This spell should be used when we want to attain fiery, and strong qualities, prior to some important battle, confrontation and alike. Should it be a debate or rhetorical type of “battle” rather try some Mercury spell. I wrote this spell, as typical fire spell, hence the effect is like the spell, powerful, abrupt and temporary

You will need

• The fourth pentacle of Mars drawn on piece of brown paper, If possible in  Dragon's blood ink
• Some Borage
• Red Onion peals
• Ginger rhizome,  small piece of
• Few cloves
• Pinch of black pepper
• Your own personal concern ( a single hair will do )
• Red candle with inscribed with appropriate symbol/s
• Fireproof dish, and some ignitable spirit ( cologne for example )
Best if all the herbs are very dry, and the best time to start the spell is Midday or in the hour of the Mars. Light the candle, and place the dish with charcoal ( larger censer could do ) in front of it. Now place the personal concern of Yours ( or party’s You are performing spell for ) on a paper with Pentacle drawn on it, add herbs, as much as You see fit, and then wrap it all in small package ( a sachet maybe ), folding towards oneself f as You do. Pour the ignitable spirit into dish, and then set the sachet alight, release it into the dish , and say the words :

“This timid soul craves for courage and strength,
To carry the sword of any length
Spirits of Mars, aid and ignite this charm,
Inflame my/this spirit for one day time
Turn me/him/her/them into fiery knight
Until once again, morn/day defeats the night !”

Sprinkle some of the resulting liquid or ash, on the sole of Your shoes.

Warrior’s mojo bag

In New Orleans Voodoo Hoodoo, for empowering and giving power to fight off enemies, especially to meek and timid, Papa Gator gris gris, is suggested as suitable charm. I can only assume the ingredients of such gris gris, and I think it’s safe to assume it contains alligator’s teeth among other .
In terms of Hoodoo You can compose a brilliant mojo combining some ( or all ) of the following:
• Masterwort
• Master of the Woods
• Dev*l’s shoestring
• High John TC root
• Sampson snake root
• Bay laurel leaf/s

In purple or red mojo bag. A small sword charm could be added as well. Feed with spirit ( whiskey ) that had Red hot chili peppers dipped in, or perhaps some suitable oil, such as “I can You can’t” , “High John TC oil” , “Victory oil” etc.

If You’d like to make, more of a charm bag type of “mojo” , combine any of the following into red pouch bag : High John TC root, Master of the woods, Cinnamon, Cloves, Ginger, Black pepper, Sampson snake Black cohosh, Thyme, Borage, Red Onion, Iron nail, Garnet, Ruby, Aventurine, Carneol, Sun stone, Mars symbols, Dragon blood resin, Sword charms etc., and of course carry on Your behalf, for steady and graduate effect .

Warriors ointment

I wrote this formula based on Indian herbal lore, for if anyone knows their warrior magick, native American Indians do

• Ointment base ( shortening, Vaseline, equal mixture of oil and wax warmed in double boiler, scentless ointment or crème etc )
• Dev*l shoestrings ( oil infusion or powdered roots )
• Bay Laurel
• Sampson snake root ( powdered, or even tincture should do in a pinch )

Combine to make ointment, used to give one better strength, stamina and empower muscles. Use to anoint  oneself , very good for sport competitions.

Potions and magickal elixirs of bravery and strength

Be them ingestible or baths and sprinkles, potions for courage and strength, can be very diverse. They can be used to ,  almost instantly , energize, and for such You may combine equal parts of ginger rhizome infusion with orange juice and solar honey.
Or they can be used to give courage to meek, and ward off that paralyzing fear. Simple Borage infused in red wine will do that. Or tea made of pinch of Black cohosh and some Thyme, and spring water.
Velerie Worth suggests combining apple cider with cloves, and cinnamon as a potion to make someone “strong as steal”, enchanting the potion by means of a very cunning rhyme, in one of her brilliant books [1]
Catch some of the waterfall  wate r ( or substitute with spring water ) and pour in a vessel that you will place  on  the “Helm of Awe” bindrune, exposed to rays of rising Sun . Simply sprinkle Yourself, or/and drink small amount to be “invincible” in battle [2]
A nice bath made with Master of the Woods, should enable one mastery over adverse conditions.
A simple "Four thieves vinegar" as salad dressing, when used with intention of course will empower and ward of malice at same time. Same can be achieved by disolving a spoon of it in a glass of water to drink.


NOTES : This article and spells and formulas given here, were written by myself, which means, if You'd like to use it elswhere, feel free, but add credit/s Shadow of Shadows magick place, or Shadow-333@hotmail.com or provide a link fof this post.
CREDITS : [1] Valerie Worth's "Book of Words" , for complete formula
[2] Helm of Awe can be found in bindrunes section of www.sunnyway.com/runes

Hope You find this helpful, to go and kick some ...well something lol :)
Many Blessings, Shadow :)