Magick for overwhelming times, guidance and mind empowerment

Many people, and spiritual workers and magickal practitioners in particular will face times that are challenging, stressful and confusing. In such times, we need guidance and mental empowerment , wisdom and discernment. We need those things, just as much as our bodies need air or daily bread. And often schooled councilors are simply not equipped to deal with specific problems ailing us, particularly those that dwell in spiritual as much as in physical.

  Some are even more prone to be taunted by our own mental flaws, and not just lack of wisdom , but such inhibiting feelings as fear, or sensations of instability and insecurity. Lunar kind, such as Cancers are particularly of feeble , and unstable mental nature, tormented by strong perceptiveness, and lunatic nature. Of course, such nature is not limited for Cancers only, nor it has to be permanent or even constant.

  Sometimes, life simply gets overwhelming, more so when people face major “rites of passage” in their lives, when facing difficult choices, clouded by bivalence or ambivalence, or simply get tired of fighting. In such cases person starts felling fear , and eventually gives in to inhibitive and down-putting feelings, which may result in depression or even desperation. In such cases we seek guidance, wisdom and mental empowerment from our Higher source and Spirits of all kind. New Agers suggest connecting to one’s “Higher self”. I am personally very dubious of such techniques , for to me, higher self is “superego”, which is by no means, completely infallible, aspect of personality . New Agers idealize and present epically and fantastically concept of one’s personal Higher self , making it seem all knowing and powerful. Such homocentric theories , are by definition bias and exaggerated .

Sometimes we can refer to wiser , or more experience human, those that are usually represented by “The Hermit” tarot card, seen in archetypical mythical/historical figures such as Lord Christ while on Earth in his physical form , Plato, Merlin etc. However , it is often more practical to address spiritual force. Be them Ancestral spirits, deities, Celestial Spirits or G’d itself. In this post I will present some examples of such spiritual methods . Now before I proceed on these particular method, I’d probably be better to note that, many spells fall under this “cathegory” wisdom , prophetic and vision spells, etc. hence the particular methods discussed here might be a variation, or combination of such.

Guidance magick correspondences

Angels, Aerial spirits and entities, Mercurial Spirits are called upon for insight, guidcance and wisdom. Colors associated witch such spells are Purple, Yellow/Gold and Blue. Also some Solar and Jupiterian aspects may come handy indeed. Symbols may include all sort of different universal archetypes such as Allseeing eye and Eye of Horus, that represent ability of insight and clarity through confusion, owl representing knowledge and wisdom. Elven star for Spiritual guidance and spiritual knowledge, certain bindrunes and runic charms, Mercury pentacles, Jupiter, Solar pentacles and so on. Best days for such operations are Wedensday and Sunday , and of course Monday If we are to seek answers through dreams.

Words of Power

Can be any You find inspirational, empowering and , of course, agreeable with You. Being a Hoodoo practitioner and student, and Christian by religion, it is only natural that I like prayers and Psalms for such, however that does not mean I never use rhyming incantations, or other form of words of power. Furthermore, in one of the spells I’ve written while composing this article I used rhyming charm. Pagans may invoke aid of, or petition Minerva, Hekate, or Thoth etc, with proprietary pagan prayers and invocations. I like to use 23rd Psalm for Guidance, as well as some others ( for example : ) as well as heart-kindred prayers. Some of the following seem brilliant for such work:

Prayer for Guidance

Lord, guide us in your gentle mercy, for left to ourselves we cannot do your will. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. AMEN

That could be followed by this one, for example

Prayer For God's Inspiration

Father, may everything we do begin with your inspiration, and continue with your saving help. Let our work always find its origin in you, and through you reach completion. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. AMEN [1]

For example one could light three White candles in front of Image of Holy Trinity or Crucifix, and Place a vessel with some Holy or Consecrated spring water between them, then read the prayers given above, followed by a heart-full petition/ prayer or our own . You can then sprinkle tad bit of water on Your head and use some to trace a symbol of Cross on Your forehead d . Various Saints can be called upon when having mental troubles, battling confusion and in need of guidance. Some examples being Virgin Mary, Saint Dymphna, particulary when we are stressed or on the border of nervous breakdown, or St Cyprian for guidance , particularly regarding occult mastery, and to fight off occult attacks on our mind. People having difficulties with their studies pray for Inspiration to Holy Spirit, students of Law petition Abraham , and students of Medical sciences petition folk Saint St Jose Gregorio Hernandez. Orthodox Christian students would often pray to [2] Three Hierarchs, or St Justin the Philosopher for help ( among other, depending on the part of the world there are regional differences) , when their studies become hard and overwhelming. Medicine students of Christian Orthodox faith pray to St. Cosmas and Damian , as well as to St Panteleimon. When Orthodox Christian are facing a difficult situation there is a host of Saint’s they can adrees to, among others St Cosmas and Damian , St David the Prophet, Holy Archangel Raphael and other. For spiritual help , consolation, and compunction Orthodox Christian shall pray to Alexios , Man od God, or St Seraphim or Sarov among other On St Cosmas and Damian and suggested methods of petitioning them I have written before , here

Symbols

Not an excessive list, but few suggestion of symbols used in guidance, clarity, wisdom type sprirtual wor k may include: All-seeing eye, Key, Elven Star, Mercury Pentacles, Fourth Pentacle of Jupiter, Awen druid symbol, Vegvisir , Hugrunes


Crystals and Gemstones for guidance

Other than handful of traditionally used mind empowering and guidance stone, the rest draw from modern inspiration of crystal users. The so called “New age” stones very popular nowadays, are supposed to elevate mind spiritually and connect user to Angelic or other ( Higher Intelligence ) beings and therefore enable their guidance. Stones that were traditionally used for guidance, are supposed to empower the mind of user, direct it and provide clarity. Sometimes the very crystal “being “ is advisor by nature such as Onyx. Here are a few suggestions:
• Fluorite – provides wisdom and mental clarity, helps cognitive process by spiritual insight, where and how much needed , balances and empowers mind
• Blue Tourmaline – Said to give answers, and show directions, particularly when using natural wands – according  to Judy Hall
• Onyx – a great comforter and advisor in times of need, teaches us how to raise when fall and make things better and triumph over failure, becoming victorious. Fights disorders caused by misbalance of serotonin, such as depressive disorders. Hold in palm to receive advices, or place in mouth for few minutes to remove melancholic feelings ( placing Onyx In mouth was suggested by Hildegard fon Biggen ) , though after such use I’d advise good cleansing. Can be used to repel mind crossings.
  • Amethyst – Sobers and strengthen the mind providing spiritual insight, guiding and intuition and peaceful sleep, which is so often lacking in cases of mental troubles, distress etc. Also it is a brilliant stone for ( in such cases ) so needed Aura cleansing
• Prehnite – Inspires spiritual wisdom and contact with Celestial beings
• Selenite – calms, sharpens and focuses min d, helping and promoting spiritual contact\s
• Seraphinite – helps people find their Higher purposes, get in touch with their “Higher self”, greatly broadens spiritual awareness
• Lapis Lazouli – deflects negative energy directed towards one’s mind, empowers mind, provides wisdom and strengthens spiritual gifts, acts as “blockbuster” stone
• Sodalite – opens spiritual perceptions, opens and strengthens the Third eye
• Orange Calcite – heals mental disorders , removes fear and depression, balances emotions, removes obstacles standing in Your way to achieve Your best potential Galena is said to “Brings strength, courage and ability to face difficult times” and “Helps one to recover personal power” according to Crystals cure website [3] .
Blue Opal helps overcoming self imposed “hazardous” or “limiting” programs and strengthens personal courage. Petrified wood is so very powerful in removing obstacles and helping us reaching goals that we are having troubles with, and smoothing our path, and removing obstacles that may linger on it. Those are just few of my own suggestions based on cross-referencing Judy Hall’s and other gemology authorities writings and personal experience. Other stones You may want to learn more of and use, are Angel Aura Quartz, Angelite , Moldavite, Petalite, Staurolite, Merlinite, Danburite, Blue lace Agate, Herkimer Diamond, Larimar, Mangano Calcite Without further ado, let’s proceed to formulas I’ve written and/or collected for this occasion :)

Conquering mind oil

I composed this formula aiming for conquering confusion, mental problems, and mind crossings, while providing mental strength, excellence, guidance and spiritual insight. Could also be somewhat a good general “Wisdom” type of condition oil, as well as a form of mild domination oil, to overcome or dominate someone mentally. Combine

• Solomon seal’s root
•Master root
• Bay Laurel leaf
• Sage
•Mint
• High John TC root
• Flax seed

Use essential oils or dried botanicals with exception of Solomon s seal root, Master root and High John TC root. All in base oil, preferably Olive oil, or mixture of Olive and Flax oil. Add a Vit. E capsule or tincture of Benzoin.

  Give me a sign spell

This spell should provide guidance in form of signs, and omens, be it in dreams, visions or real word around You. Set an altar with images of Guiding Spirits ( I use Angels ), some fresh Mint branches, Altaea roots, a glass of water and a white, haint blue or purple candle ( I like to use so called Angelic influence candles ), and a piece of virgin paper or parchment, a fireproof dish or censer, and a Blue tourmaline or fasceted quartz crystal. If You have some soothing oil on hand, dress the candle though, that is optional. You can inscribe the candle with Elven star.

   Place the fireproof dish between candle, glass of water and Mint and Althaea roots, placing them so they form a Triangle around the Censer/dish . On the paper, write Your question as concise and clear as possible ! Light the candle, then set the paper parchment on fire , and holding the crystal in one, and paper/parchment in other hand and as it burns say:

I beseech signs from above,
I seek solution
So into through these flames
I send my petition
Guiding spirits, hear my plea
Send signs and omens now to me
End my confusion , bring tranquility
Bless me with Wisdom and with Clarity.

  Save the ashes, and then release them in the wind outside. Carry the crystal with You, and be perceptive.

Divine inspiration charm

In a purple fabric or pouch ( mojo ) bag combine

• Pentacle of Jupiter
• Onyx stone of Blue Tourmaline, Purple Fluorite, Prehnite or Seraphinite shall do as well
• Piece of Solomon’s seal root
• Some Sage
• All seeing eye charm or small Crucifix
  • Mint leaves
• Flax seeds or Anise seeds

  On the outer surface of the charm, one may attach a small (skeleton ) key charm

Stray not direction spell

Draw a “Vegvisir” rune on a piece of parchment paper. Place a Blue tourmaline wand/stick on it, and swirl it asking for directions of something, or someone. The wand’s point shall indicate the, right direction. I suggest wrapping the Crystal in parchment and when put away, or carried alongside on trips to prevent getting’ loss.

To See in a Vision Anything from the Past or Future The following dream incubation/prophercy spell comes from classical grimoire, and can, with tad bit of imagination be finely used for guidance through dreams: "The two N N which you see in the second small circle mark the place where you put your name [see To Make a Girl Come to You . . .].
To know what you will, write the names in the circle on virgin parchment, before sleeping, and put it under your right ear on retiring, saying the following orison: Orison O Glorious Name of Great God the ever-living, to whom all things are present, I am Thy servant N. . . . Father Eternal, I beg You to send me Thy Holy Angels, who are written in the Circle and that they shall show me what I want to know, by Jesus Christ our Lord. So be it Having completed the orison, lie down on your right side, and you will see in a dream that which you desire to know. " [4]

The symbol mentioned in spell ( To make  a girl  come to you )  can be found in one of my previous posts on love conjurations

NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, therefore, should You wish to use any part of it elswhere online, add credits: Shadow of Shadows magick place or Shadow-333@hotmail.com  or a direct link to this pots.
CREDITS AND REFRENCES:
[1] http://cathedralofsaintmatthew.net/LifeResources/Prayers/PrayersForGuidanceAndWisdom.htm
[2] as suggested here http://orthodoxwiki.org/Patron_saint
[3] http://crystal-cure.com/galena.html
[4] quoted from “Grimoirum Verrum”, for explanatory purposes, without any ill will
IMAGE CREDITS: The Image showing "Guardian Angel guiding kids" is from and old German postcard. The Vegvisir image is from www.wikipedia.com, page on Vegvisir

Pacts with demons and Contract with Adversary

Pacts with spirits are common thing in magick and occultism that can really be seen from various perspectives. Sometimes among deities themselves, according to myths, like in Egypt, where goddess Mut was a subject of complot of her “fellows” who thought how  she has become too powerful at certain point. Taking sides in common confrontations of deities in Greek or Roman polytheistic pantheons was almost what we might call “every day “ common thing. The pact does not always necessarily carry malevolent connotation, although that’s very possible indeed. Not all “pacts with Dev*l” are misnamed agreements with Crossroad spirits, Trickster spirits or Chthonic creatures. There are people , be them practitioners or not that consciously and willingly step in such pact.

Even the culture is influenced by such motifs. Italy counts more than ten ( possibly more ) bridges called “Ponto del Diavolo”, and plenty more appear in Europe ( France , Germany, there is one in Welsh If I am not wrong ) many of which are, according to legend(s), created as a result of the pact with the De*il, or possibly some spirit perceived  at given point as such.

Many works of art, music in particular are said to have came to be with the help of certain spirits. A prominent, well know example in African American culture, particularly among blues musicians and in the  Conjure community is the case of Sir Robert Johnson , who publicly claimed how De*il taught him how to play guitar on crossroads. It has ever since become one or many examples of Crossroads lore and meeting, and teachings  about Black man of the Crossroads  , in Hoodoo and Conjure community. They do however say , how this ( legend ) is actually related to contemporary fellow of Robert Johnson, called Tommy Johnson[1]

Then, there is a popular , and If I may add , notorious classic work , The Violin Sonata in G minor, more famously known as the Devil's Trill Sonata , by Giuseppe Tartini ( 1692 – 1770 ) , technically extremely challenging, said to be a result of pact, or at least teaching of De*il , as actual Christian figure. Though why could have  the malevolent spirit acted as teacher to Tartini here,  is still a mystery . Here is how Tartini himself described the experience in Lalande's Voyage d'un François en Italie (1765 - 66):

"One night, in the year 1713 I dreamed I had made a pact with the devil for my soul. Everything went as I wished: my new servant anticipated my every desire. Among other things, I gave him my violin to see if he could play. How great was my astonishment on hearing a sonata so wonderful and so beautiful, played with such great art and intelligence, as I had never even conceived in my boldest flights of fantasy. I felt enraptured, transported, enchanted: my breath failed me, and - I awoke. I immediately grasped my violin in order to retain, in part at least, the impression of my dream. In vain! The music which I at this time composed is indeed the best that I ever wrote, and I still call it the "Devil's Trill", but the difference between it and that which so moved me is so great that I would have destroyed my instrument and have said farewell to music forever if it had been possible for me to live without the enjoyment it affords me." [2]

Whether or not he had actually sold his soul, we may never know.
An American minister and folklorist H.M. Hyatt , in his anthropological account “Hoodoo, rootwork , Conjuartion , Witchcraft’ noted  down some narrative  methods of contacting and getting help from the Crossroad De*il, or Black Man of the Crossroads, a manifestation of Crossroad spirit , as seen in Conjure community. Due to Christianization, people started calling this spirit De*il , and ritual and magickal practices associated with it “selling the soul”. It is worth mentioning here that those terms do not have literal meaning, nor do they share Christian perspective of them among the Hoodoo and African-American Conjure people. Also unlike in Christian Medieval ( and contemporary , why not ) thought , this spirit, if paid , is paid most often in silver coin “per lesson” or with graveyard dirt ritually collected in his honor. This is why such rituals mostly start in graveyard and end up on Crossroads. While some anthropologists try to associate this spirit with the Teutonic Der Tefuel , it is much more likely that Crossroad spirit is simply some of the Lwa that reside on Crossroad , acting like road openers or trickster spirits ( Papa Legba, orCarrefour even ) Crossroads spirits often teach various mental skills or manual dexterities, like playing guitar or benjo as mentioned above in text, or like in following excerpt from Hoodoo – Conjuration – Witchcraft – Rootwork” as kindly shared on Lucky Mojo website:

349. If you want to know how to play a banjo or a guitar or do magic tricks, you have to sell yourself to the de*il. You have to go to the cemetery nine mornings and get some of the dirt and bring it back with you and put it in a little bottle, then go to some fork of the road and each morning sit there and try to play that guitar. Don't care what you see come there, don't get 'fraid and run away. Just stay there for nine mornings and on the ninth morning there will come some rider riding at lightning speed in the form of the de*il. You stay there then still playing your guitar and when he has passed you can play any tune you want to play or do any magic trick you want to do because you have sold yourself to the de*il. [3]

In Italy, especially in places like Venice and notorious Benevento, it is common belief that certain witches freely and willingly sell their souls to Christian De*il, despite the fact they are not Christians themselves , in exchange for great occult powers. Sometimes, according to the folk, soul is not the price, rather service and partnership are.

In Balkan Peninsula folk magick, pact with all sort of natural and chthonic spirits are so very common, that I could not possibly elaborate even just the common ones here. Hopefully , I might on some other occasion  , dedicate a longer, more elaborate and comprehensive blog post to it. I shall howeve r, mention few examples here. In Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, parts of Croatia and Romania, it is common to make pact with a chthonic spirit called “Tartor” which is described as “water De*il” , though called so most likely due to Christianization, much like it’s case with Black man of the Crossroad in Hoodoo. To make a pact with it, witch must enter cold water naked, with untied, loose hair and pledge to loyalty and service. Sometimes , this is not enough , for Tartor may ask for Young pretty girl, which the witch or Cunning women shall provide. The girl enters river naked, with loose hair as well, and is often forced to intercourse with the mentioned spirit. Pact with this spirit is also the answer to a deadly condition, when he fascinates Young men that accidentally fall asleep near river in bad hours of night, or near the watermills , a cultic place in Balkan traditional and folk witchery. In such case cunning men ( or women lol ) shall take the young men to make a pact with the spirit, and so to be saved from drowning, in which would the condition otherwise result. Similar is the pact with Smeu, a parasitic dragon –man creature of Balkan folklore, with whom girls or boys ( for he, dragon Smeu is androgynous and can take on gender which he feels like ) can create a pact, where he does them favors and get sexual service in return. Unlike Tartor, despite his harsh nature that leaps more on malevolent side, Smeu ( also called Zmei, Zmeu etc ) is not seen as De*il nor identified with it.

My friend Artemisia, has recently shared with me some brilliant information on Fae lore in Bulgaria, among other including examples on how are pacts made with Fae there. In Eastern Europe folklore, pacts can be made with fae Folk , and are usually less threatening and dangerous in nature than pacts with chthonic or demonnic spirits. Typical examples would be pacts with “Diva Samodiva” as known in Bulgaria ( known as “Vila” in Romania, Serbia, Macedonia, Montenegro and some regions of Croatia ) which is made in more ways than one. They can “brother” ( verb, become brothers with ) Young man who would show themselves as worthy by respecting Nature and protecting it, respecting forests , meadows, plants animals and fighting for them. A less humane way would be stealing their veil while they bathe and returning it only for a favor, or for marriage as Young man of Balkan would do, for these Fae are extremely beauty and have enchanting, dazzling eyes that can mesmerize any man [4] .

In Eastern Europe, folk songs, and tales speak of sacrifice bound pact with River Fae and Water De*il’s , where an animal or even kid in some cases would be offered as part of pact, and in return the mentioned spirit would not torment people and village. Today it’s more often to offer green branches, bread, rice, or wheat as tribute to all sort of River entities, while either evoking them or simply appeasing. It’s still perceived as form of pact, often done repeatedly over some time.
Now I will be mentioning later in text how did the Balkan folk perceive pacts with actual de*il and what was needed for such.

Contract with the Wicked one in occult and Medieval Christian tradition, and on Dr Faust


According to occult teachings, one could acquire a contract with the fiend, via means of Higher magick work, such as Invocation and Evocation of spirits. Christian theology agrees on such , although perceiving what’s called as Higher magick as demon worship, sometimes.
In her "Encyclopedia of Witchcraft", on 194th page, Rosemary Ellen Guiley provides all alleged terms those that wanted pact had to fulfill, among other, denying protection of Christian G’d and Virgin Mary, mocking of baptism, foreswearing of old name , getting new godfathers renouncing the old ones etc. [5]
In Eastern Europe, particularly in Balkans, according to folk tradition there are various methods of entering a pact with demon or making a contract, all sharing some common traits, among other not bathing for a specific amount of time, not praying and not cutting hand nails for 40 days , sometimes less. After that the person was to visit chtonic places, such as Crossroads, Watermills , or under large dead tree trunks. Then it’s suggested that the person in question invokes demon with personal invocation that usually included renouncing of all good and pledging to service evil. In exchange, most often great occult powers were received.
The practitioner, willing to sell their soul for favors, power, money or whatever, would often used the demonic signatures, or sigils, to contact the demon or the Wicked one itself, and the rest would go as any bargain. Sometimes these items ( sigils ) needed for contact or acquiring more occult power were given to practitioner by spirits themselves, or shall I say demons, some of which were obtained from classical grimoires such as Goetia, “The Lesser key of Solomon” or “The Great book of St.Cyprian”.
The person in subject, that wanted a pact, had to renounce Christian G’d , or If they have not been Christian, pledge to loyalty to the fiend. Contracts would then be made, in actual physical form, one taken by the Wicked spirit and one reserved by practitioner.

Typical examples of such deals would be that of Louis Gaufridi ( 17th centry Priest ) and the Wicked spirit himself. Louise was allegedly given power to fascinate, bewitch , enchant and seduce by blow of mouths.[6] The “Malleus Malleficarum” text speaks of such pacts with the fiend, particulary among witches to procure spending occult powers and abilities, which they accordingly used to wreak havoc and cause misfortune, as suggested in mentioned work. Such people were also said to have been branded by means of senseless spot on their skin, which could not be affected by pain or physical injuring, This was taken as “diagnostic criteria” indicative or witches that consorted with demons, most commonly Wicked one in person.
However other demons have been keen on such pacts as well, even lesser one. Peter Stubbs or Stumpp ( also spelt Stubbe ) admitted being given magickal belt, that enabled him to become man slaughtering and devouring beast, by will, by an incubus demon.

Sometimes Dev*l shall send other demons to close the bargain in his name . Like in the famous legend about Dr Faust, who feeling unfulfilled with the knowledge he had, offers himself to the De*il. The Wicked spirits sends an emissary instead, called Mephistopheles who nevertheless closed the pact with Dr Faust, that was to end in De*il himself obtaining the poor man’s sould nevertheless. Many believe that, at least the protagonist of the legend ( and latter of the Goethe’s novel ) was an actual, once alive person. However the identity of true Dr Faust remains vague, although speculations and theories of it exist. It’s widely believed that the figure was actually Dr. Johann Georg Faust , that lived at the end of fifteenth, till first half of sixteenth century, and was known as magician and alchemist with an degree in divinity from Helidelber g university. Other common belief is that ( one of the many possible sources of the legend ) it was Johann Fust, Johann Guttenberg’s business partner. Be it as it had been, the legend is alive even nowadays nevertheless, spreading it’s influence and warning even to pop culture, and is present in jargon speech and phrases, “Faustian deal” being one suc h example, denoting a bad barging/deal, where the price heavily surpasses gain, and therefore is no t really worth of same.

Breaking the pacts


A pact with the spirit can be broken in numerous ways. Now, it’s worth nothing here the semantics I use ( and have used throughout this article ) ; I see pact with spirit as possible deal with any non human entity, whreas the “contract” is what is used in phrase Contract with the demon or Dev*il, entities present only in Judeo- Christian religions, which does not imply people of other religions , or magicko-religious traditions or systems of all kind, could not make contract with De*il, for if they wanted to, they might be able.
So, the pact with the spirit can be “dissolved” according to Higher magick teachings, and while there are few universal methods, each is adjusted to specific spirits with whom the pact is to be broken. It refers to correspondences , for breaking a pact with Moon spirit, You’ll among other need silver or white robe, altar cloth, candles , Moon correspondent incense etc. Many pacts with spirits are made so they can be broken at any point, although sometimes people are warned that the spirit would retaliate, which I consider to be utterly rare, If possible, especially in mentioned case. Many occultists accept three methods of interaction with the spirit :

• Devotion – long tome practice associated with spirit, including some kind of worship, or offerings or appease
• Ceremony – Basic invocation or evocation techniques, use to make spirits do our biddings or cause what some see as voluntary possession others as channeling or being driven etc
• Drama – combination of aforementioned and creation of thoughtforms or rather so called god-forms to act as some sort of channel of the deity [7]

Each of mentioned can be seen as pact. But a pact which is informal in nature, and as such can be dismissed at any point. The key with “dissolving” even more formal pacts with spirits ( as aforementioned ) is in respectful treatment, appeasing the spirits and thanking them, but clearly showing You are to break the pact from whichever the reason You might have. Like in the example with the Moon spirit I mentioned. For a more standard procedure example I encourage You to look into this , brilliant, post:

http://aaronleitch.wordpress.com/2011/03/03/breaking-pacts/

What about contracts , as contracts with Demon’s or Dev*l , which are very formal in nature indeed, according to many, all with physical contract existing.
Well , truth be told weather it is always possible, remains a subject of fiery debates   among occultists. In   Christianity there is a method of undoing such pact, and it involves a form of exorcism, which according to written Middle-age testimonies would result also in retrieval of physical contracts,
Even though that was of secondary value, really.
For an example of such, traditional exorcism, used for breaking pacts, I shall once again refer You to :
http://aaronleitch.wordpress.com/2011/03/03/breaking-pacts/

Where Sir Leitch has provided example of such ritual as well , for one’s convenience and for it’s educational value

An Christian Saint and Mystic St Alfonso Maria De Liguori following steps are undertake to break a pact with a demon :

• Renounce and abjure any contract with Satan.
• Destroy all writings, talismans, charms, etc., connected with the black art.
• Burn the written contract, or declare you regret and reject it.
• Make restitution for any harm done, insofar as is possible.


[8]

Sometimes before or after this one could take Hyssop baths , reading 51st Psalm , perhaps for 13 consecutive days , and confess sins. I think that the maxima “prevention is the best cure” applies very good here though

_________________

NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, therfore,d If You wish to use any part of it elswhere give credits ; Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com, or a direct link to this post
CREDITS AND REFFRENCES:
[1] according to Lucky mojo, website Crossroads entry, for link see under [3] bellow
[2] from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devil
[3] quotation is from http://www.luckymojo.com/crossroads.html
[4] Written contribution by Miss Artemisia , a dear friend and knowledgeable magick practitioner
[5] According to Rosemary Ellen Guiely book : http://books.google.me/books?id=NHosWhaeWDQC&pg=PA194&lpg=PA194&dq=louis+gaufridi+pact&source=bl&ots=Jj9-PIAhPg&sig=NUHI7duCRly3aeJm29T-FJYRuws&hl=en&sa=X&ei=9tQRT9qFC6XP4QTp5ZjCAw&sqi=2&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q=louis%20gaufridi%20pact&f=false
[6] According to same source as listed under [5]
[7] according to Gerald J Schuler as noted in his work “ An advanced guide to Enochian magick”
[8] http://witches.monstrous.com/the_pact/page-3.html
IMAGE CREDITS: The original image showing only hands engaged in handshake, was from Flickr.com, and was then largely edited by myself

Female empowerment and domination magick

Hmm If You put wow+men ( or woo+men-o ) and exclude one “w” , we get women. And don’t they “wow” us men lol. See I believe women are dominant as it is, and can cunningly manipulate even the smartest of men. “ Strong enough to bear the children and then get back to business” as a pop artist Beyonce said in one of her songs. Many women however still claim men and women are unequal, and women discriminated. Well this holiday, International women’s day ( 8th of March ) is a proof that it’s not really so :)

Where I am , we have a tradition of giving presents to all women that mean something to us ( family, friends , colleagues etc ) be it merely a single flower if nothing more. It shows respect and care and I think it is a very nice tradition, though a strike on me wallet , pity there is no International men’s day hehe

Anyhow I decided to dedicate this blog post to all my female readers, and all female persons that simply read this page  And it’s about female domination, ruling and conquering magick spells and formulas, and hopefully a useful info ;)

Legends and Deities associated to Female domination

Female domination is through history and major religions , mostly presented as done through seduction and all sort of very subtle coercive methods, and hence often ending up badly, for both “sides of equation” sort of say. While we can not say Adam had been manipulated by Eve, many will agree that at least he had been persuaded. That particular, Biblical example, had ended up in one of the worst possible scenarios , forced exodus of human beings from Heaven, becoming mortal and under what we call “The Original curse” ( sometimes , Father/Mother /s curse etc . ) all because Adam could not say no to a women.

There are of course many, historical examples. For example, to me, the ruling , but fair nature of Queen Cleopatra ( thanks to who we were able to decrypt Rosetta stone and therefore gain knowledge or reading and understanding hieroglyphs , for she insisted on speaking and writing in Greek ) is in much , commendable. While many sources spoke of her beauty it was her complete personality that inflicted respect and resonated with that fine , classy and elevated power. Cassius Dio had written on that:

"For she was a woman of surpassing beauty, and at that time, when she was in the prime of her youth, she was most striking; she also possessed a most charming voice and knowledge of how to make herself agreeable to everyone. Being brilliant to look upon and to listen to, with the power to subjugate everyone, even a love-sated man already past his prime, she thought that it would be in keeping with her role to meet Caesar, and she reposed in her beauty all her claims to the throne.” [4]

Wars had been led, and whole empires overthrown over gaining female affection, one nice example being that of Helen of Troy ( Helenae nupta Troyanis in latin , literarily Helena bride of Troy ), and as a result, today we even have ( humorous, informal ) unit of measurement for beauty called Helen. Therefore one miliHelen is amount of beauty needed to launch one entire ship lol

Another widely known example is that of Biblical women, Phoenician queen Jezebel, who had ( again by means of seduction and persuasion mostly ) lead king Ahab to worship of the vane, profane demonic entity of Baal, instead on one loving G’d, and is considered responsible for the death of many righteous God’s prophets. Consequently the name Jezebel become associated with fallen, immoral and strayed women , and become epitome of promiscuous controlling women [1] Perhaps this is why Jezbel’s root is used in Hoodoo for strong female manipulation, by prostitutes to attract submissive and rich clients and to cast a curse on someone, which is among other ways done by holding root in Your hands for 2 hours, in silence, focusing on enemy , and then placing it in jar with own urine, only to be disposed with the jar , in the body of water [2] I myself, personally, have known to use root in “I dominate my men” formulas I’ve had chance to make few times for some people. When I was requested by reader on here to write about Cleo May oil, and provide formula , I offered, my personal formulation ( as I would make it , If I was to ) that inclides Jezbel root, You can read more on it here: www.shadowsmagickplace.blogspot.com/2010/11/cleo-may-formula.html

Another well famed, or rather notorious, Biblical story of female power and domination comes, is that of Salome, a daughter of Herodius, who had by means of erotic seduction compelled king Herod to decapitate St John the Babtist, making her “Dance of seven veils” a cultural symbol of sensible seduction. Here is how Gospel of Mathew ( 14:6 – 11 ) describes it:

But on Herod's birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced before them: and pleased Herod. Whereupon he promised with an oath, to give her whatsoever she would ask of him. But she being instructed before by her mother, said: Give me here in a dish the head of John the Baptist. And the king was struck sad: yet because of his oath, and for them that sat with him at table, he commanded it to be given. And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.
And his head was brought in a dish: and it was given to the damsel, and she brought it to her mother. And his disciples came and took the body, and buried it, and came and told Jesus.

Another version ( NIV Bible ) same part

On Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much 7 that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. 8 Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” 9 The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted 10 and had John beheaded in the prison. 11 His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother. [3]

St Martha The Dominator, MaMan Briggite, Loa Marinette


Many deities are represented as strong female, be them pagan deities like Athena the warrior , or Egyptian Bastet a fiery lower Egypt Lioness deity, or Sekhmet ( that used to be associated with Bastet in Memphis area ) that protected women and were seen equally strong as their male counterparts .

In Hoodoo, Conjure and New Orleans Voodoo Hoodoo there are few spirits, that among other empower women and give them power over man, particularly if the man is cruel, aggressive or unruly.

So we have women making bead necklaces or bracelets ( usually on 8th of December ) made from alternating Amber and red beads ( sometimes five of each ) then consecrating them on Altars dedicated to Loa Oshun and wearing them to improve their diplomatic skills , particularly in marriage or intimate relationships. Loa Yemaya is said to be protector of the women, particularly pregnant women and is petitioned for such often.

Some female practitioners who “mean business” may address to Loa Marinette, a scary, often evil Female Loa of Rada family. She is seen as sort of sorceress, wicked and cruel, of Skeletal appearance e, and bad temper. She is often invoked to subdue, “break” or “bend” men or even other women , seen as enemies. Often for such work a living rooster is plucked alive and then buried, as sacrifice. Black pigs are also used as sacrifice. It is believed tha t Marinette , like Anima Sola , with whom she’s syncretized, can either set one free of bondage or enemies, and put them at practitioners power, or harm practitioner even further. This Loa likes black and blood red colors.

Women suffering from partners aggression may refer to Loa Erzule Dantor to empower and defend them and put end to partners aggression. She is also said to be protector against domestic violence, according to what I read from trustworthy source. The source calls it, among other , “fierce defender of women” , as she was a warrior in Haitian revolution, according to some beliefs [5]

When it comes to protecting women and helping them in dealing with unreasonable,
childish, rude or aggressive man, my personal suggestion is Maman Briggite, for If she can manage to sorter out , them obscene and rude male Ghede Loa, she’ll easily do same for people petitioning her.

In Hoodoo, we often pray to St. Martha ( the dominator ) for such help, to control other people, female practitioner praise her as great controller and subdue of man. St Martha is a Biblical figure and Saint, sister of Lazarus and Mary, who had been known for her hospitability. According to non Biblical writing, certain Golden Legend, she also helped people of small town Tarascon ( somewhere in today’s France ) and freed them from fiery dragon-monster, that according to legend had been associated with Leviathan. The Golden legend speaks of how she had subdued the gnarly beast, despite the fact the best warriors had not been able :

“…To whom Martha, at the prayer of the people, came into the wood, and found him eating a man. And she cast on him holy water, and showed to him the cross, which anon was overcome, and standing still as a sheep, she bound him with her own girdle, and then was slain with spears and glaives of the people.” [6]

The legend is probably, alongside positive spiritual working experience reason why she Is invoked in Hoodoo for domination. Her candle color is green, and she is offered by Glass of water dedicated to her to which sometimes few drops of Florida water may be added. Of course “Grains of Paradise” may be included in offering, as they make wonderful “offering” to all Saints. In Roman Catholicism she is a patroness of dietitians, servants, hemophiliacs, housewives , and week women. She is said to sort out all sort of nasty and abusive men, or even other women, and while there is generally accepted belief she will not work with men, many practitioners disagree with this. Sometimes, in rituals associated with St Martha, people will use small, thin leather straps, or green yarn to tie up effigies, thus sympathetically tying enemies and preventing them from harming the practitioner. She should not be invoked to hurt someone, least there is dire need for such, but as Hoodoo is void of institutionalized ethics, it’s really up to individual worker to decide.


Spells and formulas for female empowerment

Here is my formula that might come handy to women, especially housewives and those that need to instill peace, order in house, and strengthen their influence in household

Mistress of the house condition oil

• Licorice root
• Motherwort plant
• Rosemary branch or leaves
• Angelica root
• Bergamot essential oil
• OPTIONAL: Honeysuckle flowers
• OPTIONAL: Solomon’s seal root

All in base oil, such as Olive oil, with optional addition of VitE or Benzoin tincture to rpolong the helf life of the oil.

I dominate my man formulas are somewhat more "fierce" , focusing more on plants such as Jezebel root , and Quassia ( Bitter root ) Licorice and other ingredients too. Such formulas are however, more compelling, while the above given is more a influence and empowering formula.

Charms for calming and controlling aggressive or harsh man

• Peel off some skin from the sole of Your heels, and add them to food of abusive men, to magickaly place them “at Your feet” [7]
• To stop men from harming You, make his image out of clay or other material that will not burn, and add some personal concern If You can get it, or name paper at least . Dedicate a green candle to St Martha and ask her to help You with Your problem, to calm Your men down, or If needed restrain him. Dress candle with tad bit honey in places and burn on the effigy and let it burn all the way down, until the leftover wax is hardened over the effigy.
• Take some lip balm and add few drops of Essence of Bend over to it, then use some on Your lip s and dress some oil on Your neck and palms, prior to meeting with Your men. Whisper what You want from them so he can not hear You , before You kiss him and try to hold his hand whole You do.
• Take a bath with infusion of Licorice, Catnip and Bergamot essential oil, let air dry and then dust Yourself with some powder containing Vanilla, and Orange. Carry whole Five Finger leaf with You and men will follow You and do You favors.
• Sweeten a man by placing his name paper in jar, add his personal concern If You have one, and pour some milk over it. Close the jar and burn pink or white tapper on the candle, praying that the man treats You better, and becomes calmer and sweeter.
• Allegedly some women would dress their privates with molasses prior to intimate encounters to control their man
• It is said that if a women wants men to love her more, she can take his hat, with some pretext, and then, at some point say she has to go to the toilet, so she could rub the hat over he r privates. Afterwards she hands it back to her partner and he will care for her more, perhaps even become fascinated [8]
• For a better relation with men, spouse of lover, women were known to take one of their , and one of his own socks, place corresponding hair in each and then tie them up together and place bellow bed where they sleep, according to folkloric writings of Harry Middletione Hyatt

Happy 8 march to all girls reading this :) And many Blessings to all
Shadow :)

______________________________________________________________________________

NOTES: This article was written and composed by me, so If You wish to use any part of it elsewhere online feel free, but add credits Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com , or a direct link to this post
CREDITS AND REFERENCES:
[1] according to many sources, it’s a very common analogy , here is an example http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jezebel
[2] Curse of Jezbel as suggested by Miss Catherine Yronwode, a respected Hoodoo magick authority one her website, here http://herb-magic.com/jezebel-root.html
[3] New Testament selection, excerpt, copied here , for educational, discussion and explanatory purposes, from http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mathew%2014:6-11&version=NIV
[4] description of Cleopatra’s allure is ( explanatory, illustrative ) quotation from here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cleopatra_VII#Character_and_cultural_depictions
[5] Erzule Freda fierce defender, according to : http://www.squidoo.com/erzuliedantor
[6] part of the Golden legend is quoted from http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=79
[7] as suggested in “Voodoo Hoodoo spellbook” by Denise Alvarado, paraphrase d here, for educational purpose s
[8] as suggested in “Hoodoo herb and root magick” by Catherine Yronwode, paraphrased here, for educational purposes
IMAGE CREDITS: Rose image is from http://www.portwallpaper.com/image/32634-yellow-rose.html edited by myself, used here without ill will, sort of as greeting card to congratulate International day of women
Image depicting Salome caring St John’s head on plate , by Titian is used for illustrative purposes, without and ill will and is from http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/cc/Titian-salome.jpg
Maman Brigite Veve , edited by me, as shown above is for illustrative purpose , used here without ill will, from http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/ed/VeveBrigitte.svg

Love Magick, Conjurations, and Hoodoo love

PLEASE READ: Now, this post was due for St Valentine's day. Due to certain technical issuess I was unable to post on here during February. With a delay and an appology, here it's the article I wrote



When the 14th, and 14th of February arrive, every year You can freely say how love is in the air, and not be called corny or sappy for it lol. A Day dedicated to St Valentine ( in some places to a Saint called Triphune ) and believed by many to be a special day, very favorable to express romantic law to another person. In occultism, wish energy (wishes concerning love of course) is immensely strong on this day, hence consequently the day is infused with some undefined, but powerful occult forces that can boost love magick. The biggest concern nowadays , however , seems to be having Your “Valentine” on this particular day. Whether it’s because of need for social acceptance ( it seems that not having a partner in urban culture labels one as failure and pathetic :S ???!! ) or out of fear that if one is “partner-less” on that day, their love life will be jinxed ( to put it that way ) it has become an urban imperative in social life to never spend Valentine alone. I will be honest and tell You I resent Valentine really, or more correctly what Valentine’s day become, a commercialized and profaned celebration of shallow pop-corrupted view on love. However, I do realize most people have much more faith in romantic love and idealize it, and while I myself dislike love magick, I had to learn about it, while learning about occultism and spiritual work and magick in general, for love magick is part of same.

I see most of love magick as unethical and shallow, and I live and was raised in Balkan peninsula, a place with some most notorious “black” love magick spells, most of which vulgarly and violently forcing someone to love and lust the individual using the spells. Much like popular Hoodoo and Conjure spells of “Love me or die” type. Folk love magick may appear as simple as looking someone through a hoop made of specific plant, on a specific day, or simply passing near them holding certain charm , up to elaborate rituals including nudity, rivers, whirlpools , cakes made with materia magicka added inside, or even greasing someone’s genitals with different kind of concoctions. While I consider profane to manipulate someone for sole purpose of gaining their affection, many crave someone’s liking so desperately that they would be ready on just about anything to get it ( look up Pink’s video “Please don’t leave me” for illustration of what I had in mind lol ), and in such case some love magick is certainly among the least wrong things, obsessed person might go about. In the end, we can say what we want about magickal ethics, but the ( sad ? ) truths is that occult suppliers send in largest quantities love and crossing products, and that they can make up to 70% percent of their business! Perhaps love spells are not bad in or of themselves, but they can cunningly be used to cause so much evil. Many examples are given through history and folklore, Hellene of Troy, to a point, also, Merlin and Nimueh etc.

Another sad truth is that many shall try to profit of confused, obsessed , or plainly people in need , and so we are faced with abundance of internet ( and other media ) adds offering all sort of miraculous love magick work done for You, in most cases completely and utterly fake. Love magick services seem to be ( alongside money magick services and few others ) a proper little kingdom of scam and con. In Conjure and Hoodoo it is always suggested that You, Yourself do the love spells, though of course a spiritual worker can work them with You, and set lights for You , do bindings and alike. In folk magick, love bindings can be done by practitioner and cunning folk “by order” , but most of the spells must be done for Yourself. It was so very interesting to me to find out how Heka ( Egyptian ) magick love spells should be done by Yourself, because I have seen countless adds saying “powerful Egyptian love magick cast for You…” and alike. My dear friend Miss Kallista wrote an beautiful, and very informative article on here: http://kallistasmagicks.blogspot.com/2012/01/egyptian-love-spells-and-why-you-cant.html …… and I highly recommend giving it a read :-)

Now saying I do not normally like love spells or use them for myself, does not imply I am not interested in methodology and “modus operandi” of the same, for I am, and very. Inspired by the February love fest holiday ( lol ) I decided to share few love magick information, spells and formulas, some recorder by folklore and tradition, some of which I had been taught via means of oral tradition, and some that are my own creations. I do hope You might like them and find them useful.

Love magick , items and time for it

Now, love magick can be done anytime, when the need arises, though of course certain days and hours make it more efficient and give faster results. Friday as Venus days and hour of Venus are especially favorable for love working. Fertility magick, lust, attraction, glamour, friendship s related magick, can all interlace or be connected and similar to love magick in matter of techniques, but in this post we shall speak of finding partners, causing affection in other and causing them to come and be intimate with one. Colors associated with love are red, pink, or white ( philanthropic love ) or even black, for love manipulation, and often image candles such as “Adam” and “Eve”, “Bride and Groom” or “Lovers”. Return to me type of spells, spells to cause someone to think of You, to sweeten someone’s thoughts as well as divorce spells also, might be categorized under love spell though I myself would rather label them as influence spells or other. All sort of love, lust and attraction oils are used, often very floral in scent and often containing flowers, fruits ( peal or seeds etc ) honey or lodestone/s inside, as well as perfumes and colognes such as “Rose water” , “Orange ( blossom ) water”, “Willow water”, “Jockey club cologne” , “Hoyt cologne”, “Hungary queen’s water” “Honey water” etc. Materia magicka is often used, most often urine and menstrual blood. They are often “slipped” in food or drinks, like cakes, chocolate and vine. Popularized during Middle age, and present even today are all sort of philters ( love potions ) that influence someone’s mind and reportedly cause affection and love. In older ( mostly medieval ) potions and charms it was customary to find bat’s blood, dove’s blood, dried and powdered frogs, spiders and other insects as well. Luckily nowadays we do not really need such…umm…unappealing ingredients.


Also there are popular spells with effigies of all sort, example of one such spell shall be given bellow in the text. Many interesting love spells come from New Orleans Voodoo Hoodoo tradition, like burying a ring in white clothe and pouring milk or vine over it. Or spells dedicated to Loa’s, asking for their help, like for example invoking the help of Erzulie Freda and similar.
Now without further delay, let’s go through some spells and formulas:

Conjuring a mate spell

This is most preferably done at Valentine’s day, though it should work equally well just after midnight, some Friday, when the Moon if full, or at least is waxing.
You shall need:

• 9 red or orange candles dressed with Attraction or Lodestone oil
• A fireproof dish
• A piece of parchment paper
• Cologne of Your choice
• Cinnamon
• Rose petals
• Brown sugar 
• Dove's blood ink

Set candles so to form a circle, inside which(  in the center ) the fireproof dish will be placed. Inside the dish pour some Cologne, dry Rose petals, few pinches of Cinnamon and few pinches of brown sugar. Stir clockwise visualizing Your desired partner, both in physical appearance and other characteristic . Dip the Parchment paper in it and let it air dry. Now cut it out in shape of human, making it a paper poppe t  in a way. Write on it, using Dove’s blood ink, all the qualities You wish Your partner to have. Kiss the poppet and say:

“I conjure thee, I conjure thee, fare or near come to me,
Hear my call and meet now, follow the call You’ll know how
Fire and love bring him/her close,
But may it be according to their ( his/her ) choice
I conjure thee, I conjure thee, come here and stay with me,
And as I wish, so mote it be !"

Kiss the poppet once again, then set it alight on some of the candles and throw into the dish saying:

“A fair mate I seek in this hour,
Spirits aid, give this charm power,
Bring one I seek to my door,
Make them hear and follow this call ! "

When the fire is extinguished, mix the remaining material from the bowl, with some honey and Rose water ( or Rose petals infused tea ) , enough to get   consistency of a gel . You can use brown sugar as well. Now go to some crossroad, and pour some of the liquid in the centre of it. Then turn around, and return using the same road, sprinkling some of the liquid on that path as You go, and finishing at Your doorstep . Make sure You have enough of the mixture, meaning be economical, You can splash tad bit every nine steps for example, a very small amount, very few drops will be enough. The wax remaining from the candles You can bury in Your own yard, or in flower pot You keep in house.


Love potion No9

• Rose quartz essence made using vine
• Verbena
• Rose petals
• Coriander seeds
• Damiana ( You can substitute with Elfwort )
• Cinnamon
• Vanilla sugar
• Brown Sugar or Honey
• Few cloves

Add all to some vine , stir frequently chanting :

“Amor gignit amorem! Fiat amor!”

When it boils remove, cover, and let it cool down. Then strain and serve to one whom You wish love from.

Hoodoo love magnet spells

A staple, trademark spells of Hoodoo magick system, among other are certainly Lodestone love spells, that employ their natural attraction ( magnetism ) power. Sympathetically as lodestones in such spells gradually move closer, until finally touching, so the love grows. I’s suggest starting performing such spell 7 or 9 days before the full Moon, so they could finally be completed on the night of the Full Moon.

Lodestones are fed each time ( daily ) when You s draw them closer to each other in ritual, with magnetic dust, so You’d like to divide Your magnetic sand quantity , in seven or nine equal smaller groups, one to be used to feed magnets each day. Usually a red candle ( often image candle, such as bride and groom, or embrace d couple candle ) is dressed with some soothing love oil and burnt, a” partition” , during each day of the ritual. The custom altar setting in such case is made , so that the candle and magnets form a triangle, when set on a first day. Underneath the magnets, are usually placed name papers, or personal concerns ( material magicka, such as nails, or hair, or signature evena photography ). During the ritual, words from Bible are read, popularily Song of Solomon ( as traditional in Hoodoo ). Furthermore man usually read Chapter 6th, while woman read Chapter 8th
Song of Solomon, chapter 6th, King James’s version:

1. Whither is thy beloved gone, O thou fairest among women? whitheris thy beloved turned aside? that we may seek him with thee.
2. My beloved is gone down into his garden, to the beds of spices,to feed in the gardens, and to gather lilies.
3. I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine: he feedeth among thelilies.
4. Thou art beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem,terrible as an army with banners.
5. Turn away thine eyes from me, for they have overcome me: thy hairis as a flock of goats that appear from Gilead.
6. Thy teeth are as a flock of sheep which go up from the washing,whereof every one beareth twins, and there is not one barren among them.
7. As a piece of a pomegranate are thy temples within thy locks.
8. There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, andvirgins without number.
9. My dove, my undefiled is but one; she is the only one of hermother, she is the choice one of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea, the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.
10. Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon,clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?
11. I went down into the garden of nuts to see the fruits of thevalley, and to see whether the vine flourished and the pomegranates budded.
12. Or ever I was aware, my soul made me like the chariots ofAmminadib.
13. Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return, that we may lookupon thee. What will ye see in the Shulamite? As it were the company of two armies. [1]

Now, instead of moving lodestones, one could move two candles instead, while the lodestones, a pair , “male and female” would be kept together from the beginning. Sometimes, the very candles are enough, be them figural or simple taper ( in which case in corresponding astral colour, unique for each zodiac sign ) , and the candles are moved closer to each other just like magnets. In such cases Altar settings can be more elaborate and include more candles and many formulas to dress these oils.

One of such settings for example calls for 2 white Cross shaped candles, two red candles dressed with Love oil, two Astral candles ( representing partie s ) dressed with Zodiac oil, and a Golden candle dressed with attraction oil, with specific rules how to manipulate candles, moving two closer to other two , astral and red, to other astral and red in this case [2]

For general love type oils, You may combine Lavender, Rose, Red Clover, with possible addition Jasmine and other plants, resins, or even peels ( like Orange peel rind ) depending on whethe r You wish some extra effect.
There are many other Hoodoo formulas, these just serve as illustration of typical candle magick, Hoodoo love spells. I would warmly suggest reading up on such here:
http://www.luckymojo.com/lovespells.html where You will find even Divorce, Intranquility and all sort of other , more specific type of love spells, mentioned at the beginning of this post.

Call someone to You conjurations

There are some good variation of popular spells from Solomon’s key that are used to make someone come to You ( come to Your doors, actually visit You ) and be intimate with You. And that is fine, as long as that all You want from the person is passion. Various spirits are invoked in such spells, or rituals, as it would be more precise term here. Often pentacles are used as well. If You won’t the original Solomonic spell, for Your convenience, look up titual from Grimoirum Verrum ( English translation ) , : “To cause a girl to come to You/seek You, however modest she might been” . Here is a simple/r version I came up with:

You will need:
• Fourth pentacle of Venus
• Red candle
• Personal concern of the person, or Photography or name paper
• Voodoo nights oil, or Come to me oil
• Powder made of Licorice, Cloves, Slatepetre, Cornstarch, High John root ( if male makes it ) or Jezbel root ( if female makes it ) Damiana or Carrot seeds, sugar

Make a name paper, with the name of Your target written 9 times, and Your written over it nine times, crossing and covering it. Place a personal concern on the name paper. Sprinkle it with very little powder ( described above ) or simple magnetic sand mixed with sugar, if You lack all the ingredients. Then fold it thrice towards oneself, and place it bellow the 4th Pentacle of Venus, pressing it with Your dominant hand thumb, and saying:

“Habeo potens mittendi te, te imperio, to voco! Veni mei, Veni!

Then set the candle atop, dress it with oil, light and intone , 3 – 9 times following the words:

By All Holy Names of Living God, I command and charge You, Spirits of Venus, written on this Pentacle, Schii, Eli, Ayib, and others, to go and cause the N.N.to think of me, and to crave me, and desire me, so that they can not be set at peace, until they would come to me, until they would seek me and find me. I command and compel You by this candle light, Air I breathe, Earth I stand upon, and Blood that runs through my veins. By the Lord’s names, and by Elements, and by the terrible and fiery power of TETRAGRAMATON, I charge You to bring this person to me, least I am to call You off before You had the chance to complete the task ( omit part from “least I am…task” If You have firmly decided on doing this ) . Go now, and do this to me, for I shall be very grateful to You. So mote it be ! Amen!


When the candle burns all the way down, bury the remainings in Your yard, flower pot, or leave them at nearest crossroads.

For Your convenience, and for sake of comparison the original ritual, to make a girl come and seek You, from the classic text “Grimoirum Verrum” is as follows:

"To Make a Girl come to You, however Modest she may Be.

Experiment of a marvelous power of the superior intelligences.
Watch for the crescent or the waning moon, and when you see it, make sure that you see also a
star, between the hours of eleven and midnight. Before beginning the process, do thus:

Take a virgin parchment, and write on it the name of the girl whom you desire to come. The
shape of the parchment is to be as you see in this figure:

On the other side of the parchment, write MELCHIAEL, BARESCHAS. Then put the
parchment on the earth, with the part where the name of the person is written next to the
ground. Place your right foot upon the parchment, and your left knee, bent, upon the ground.
Then look to the highest star in the sky, while in this position. In your right hand hold a taper of
white wax, sufficiently large to burn for one hour. Then say the following:

The Conjuration.

I salute thee and conjure thee, O beautiful Moon, O most beautiful Star, O brilliant light which
I have in my hand. By the light which I have in my hand. By the air that I breathe within me, by
the earth that I am touching: I conjure thee. By the names of the spirit princes living in you. By
the ineffable name ON, which created everything! By you, O resplendent angel GABRIEL,
with the planet Mercury, Prince, MICHIAEL and MELCHIDAEL.

I conjure you again, by all the Holy Names of God, so that you may send down power to
oppress, torture and harass the body and soul and the five senses of N., she whose name is
written here, so that she may come unto me. Let her then be tortured, made to suffer. Go, then,
at once! Go, MELCHIDAEL, BARESCHES, ZAZEL, FIRIEL, MALCHA, and alll those who
are with thee! I conjure you by the Great Living God to obey my will, and I, N., promise to
satisfy you.

When this conjuration has been said three times, burn the parchment with the taper. On the
next day, take the parchment, put it in your left shoe, and let it stay there until the person whom
you have called comes to seek you out. In the conjuration you must say the date that she is to
come, and she will not be absent." [3]

Similar verision in the same book is given for making a men appear in Your room, “after suppe r” as noted there .

Traditional Balkan witchery simple love spells

Magick, spells and rituals on Balkan peninsula, and magick, spells and rituals among Slavonic people in general, are, as I noted few times on here, often very raw, cruel and would seem unethical to most of the Earth population. They often require such personal concerns as menstrual blood, urine, semen , hair and other. Most work by binding and/or strong compelling principle, much like Hoodoo love me or die spells , where victims often end up being physiologically and psychologically ill, and waning, If they are away from person that “crossed” them. Many such rituals employ dead man’s ring ( wedding ring, or other kind of ring taken from the hand of cadaver ) , graveyard dirt, certain plants, padlocks, doll babies, cakes and bread “spiced” with personal concerns and so on. Such magick is often recognized, described and called “Erotic black magick of…( certain ethnical groups inserted here)” by anthropologist, ethnographers and some occultists as well. This is a large topic, that could ( and have had ) cover/ed pages of book/s. In this post, however I shall limit myself on giving some examples of less hazardous, and commanding love magick, whose methods are often practiced by younger folk, given to them as part of oral tradition. They have that effect, which in Hoodoo would be recognized as “Look me over”, “Come and see me” , “Kiss me now” or “Attraction” etc.

Such spells mostly employ herbs, rings made of herbs, charms, incantation, sometimes hair, making enchanted honey cakes etc. They are most proficient when done on certain religious (Catholic Christian or Orthodox or) holidays such as St John’ day ( summer festival, late June, when there are lot of flowering plants ) or St George’s day ( April 23rd ) , Feast of Ascension ( 40 days after the Christmas ) , St Vitus day ( 28th June according to Gregorian calendar ) , or on Pagan holidays such as Beltaine.

Herbs used for making rings/loops on these days are often chosen, by doctrine of Signatures, that is, old arhaic names of plants in this case. Deadnettle ( Lamium Purpureum ) for example, is amomg old people of Slavonic origins called “Crknice” which would somewhat translate to “dyeing for”, and is hence used to make loop trough which the desired partner is secretly observed , and his affection gained that way. Despite the plant’s archaic name meaning, that simple charm is to create infatuation, not obsession.

Another commonly found plant in such “wreaths”, in Lovage , and so is Sunflower. It is believed that, as Sunflower revolves following Sunlight, so will Young man/women, revolve around those that wear it, or that look through a herbal charm, loop containing it. Many carry it’s petals distributed, strategically in secret places, sole of the shoes, underwear, as hair decorations etc. Especially powerful for such is Sunflower picked at Transfigurations ( also called feast of Transfiguration , on 6th of August ) which on that day becomes a powerful charm for many things, itself. All one would need is to collect and employ it.

Other wildflowers are often added to these herbal charms, loops and wreaths, such as Lemon Balm, Wild Rose, Daisies, Lavender, Yarrow etc.

Mint is used during the New Moon nights, to make a ring/loop through which the desired mate, must be glanced three times in other to gain their affection. On mentioned St.John’s summer feast day, girls often make large loops, from all sort of field wildflowers , that they pull over the whole naked body, from head to feet and back, and then use to enchant Young man by looking them through it, and speaking such words as :

“As this ring has been around me , as this ring has been looking me, as this flower fragrance draws me, so shall You dance around me, look at me and be drawn to me ! “ and alike

Interesting is the following ritual, that is said to ensure the affection and sympathies of another, often done by Young people, and is reversible, therefore more ethical than most of love spells :

Young woman or man, shall make a beaded string, like a chaplet, using 18 seeds of Peach, where every other seed is dedicated to oneself ( casters name is pronounced ) and the rest to one desired as mate/partner. Then , they go to the grave, near which the Plum* tree grows, and hung their beaded string/chaplet in the treetop, speaking prayers to Plum spirit** to bring them their beloved. Then the charm is taken down and brought home with oneself, and the same is repeated three more nights. On the last , fourth night, the charm/chaplet/beaded string, is buried as near the roots of plum as possible. Should the caster at any point desire to remove the effect of such love spells and send their partner away, all they need to do is to dig out the buried charm and toss it into the river.[4]

*in Balkan, especially in Serbia, where this spell is originated from, people in remote villages still plant Plums on graves of their beloved, for it was believed by Slavic ancestors and Romanian and Bulgarian tribes that inhabited those regions that soul of the deceased migrates in that three for a year to three time, after death. Today, among these people it’s also believed that souls that remain on Earth or frequent Earth, do that as well
** The spirit of Plum refers to above mentioned soul of the deceased that inhabits it most likely, although Slavic people, in times of paganism had believed many trees to have spirits of their own spirit

NOTE: This article was written and composed by myself, therefore If You wish to use any part of it elsewhere online, provide credits: Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post
CREDITS AND REFRENCES:
[1 ] http://www.fourmilab.ch/etexts/www/Bible/Song_of_Solomon.html
[2] “Master book of candle burning” by Henri Gamache
[3] Grimoirum Verrum, classic occult grimoire, Alibeck the AEgyotina; Memphis 1517thedition[4] translated , edited and adapted from “Vlaska magija” by Jasna Jojic Pavlovski

IMAGE CREDITS: The first image, being a snapshot of occult text is from “Witches book of spells an potions” a nice compendium of traditional witchraft spells, composed by Kathryn Paulsen, Finbarr publishing, POSTED WITH NO ILL WILL, FOR ILLUSTRATIVE AND EXPLANATORY purposes, depicting rawness of traditional love spells and ingredients used. The snapshot was taken and edited by myself. Second image shows Fourth Pentacle of Venus, and was in free domain. Edited by myself. Third image comes from above mentioned, classic occult text “Grimoirum Verrum”

Imbolc and St Brigid folklore and magick

When asked, many will tell You how Imbolc is a Pagan holiday celebrated on 1st of the February. This is, at least , in part, very true. I however believe that it definitely predates Pagan religions , for there are implications in anthropological society, that it was celebrated  during the Neolith even. Furthermore, anyone could really celebrate Light, Arrival of the Spring, and Fertility can they not? Those are rather universal concepts, figuring in so many religions  , as well as traditions. It’s also time of power for those who are eclectic practitioners, suitable for fire spells of all kind,  and divination.

Tradition suggests plenty types of spiritual workings that can be done on Imbolc; one can light candles to help the Sun  in overcoming the dark period of Year, and   symbolize the  lengthening t of daytime; or to honor St Brigid. Clothes and ribbons are left outside in order to be blessed and thus empowered by St.Brigid, traditional food is prepared, and used;  such as dairies , butter and cakes. Processions of  young girls caring “Brideog”  occur, to greet to forthcoming light . and start of the Light  period of the Year. Dianic Wiccans often perform initiations on this day.

St Brigid, butter, bed and maidens

Many folk rituals , festivities and ceremonies preformed on this day are associated with St Brigid or also with the Celtic deity Brigid. The line that separates Christian folklore, and that of the Celtic Pagans , associated with this particular time of the year, in time has almost completely faded away, leaving the scholars of all kinds
( anthropologists, theologists , historian , ethnologists etc, ) subject for futile and overheated debates. Folk people , in all their “simplicity” seem to know better, they practice what their ancestors and culture taught them, and there are no conflicts between Christian and pagan folk on Imbolc. To each it’s own, If You are in  the clear about who You honor and why, You can hardly ever go wrong about it.
One of such, traditions; interlacing folk practices,  includes making of Brideog and bed for her , which is called Brigid’s bed. The bed is then “fed” with milk and honey , sometimes with butter as well and becomes something of  a ''status symbol' of the maiden that made it. She carries it  throughout the whole house, greeted with respect and presented with gifts,from her family  members, and she even sleeps next to her Brigid’s bed. For as the belief goes;  St. Brigid herself, blesses, and protects these maidens that make beds for here, and carry it on festivity processions In her honor. Therefore appeasing the Maiden meant appeasing the deity/Saint as well , thus gaining their favors. I have wrote few lines of info on Brigit’s bed last year, on here http://shadowsmagickplace.blogspot.com/2010/02/imbolc-fire-oil-and-weather-divination.html

St Brigid ( or Brigit as one of     the many offered spelling ) is one of the Patron Saints of Ireland, who had liven  between  451-525. She was a nun, an abbess, and the founder of many monasteries.[1] A commendable soul according to many,    who had preformed many miracles. Her parents were her dad Dubhthach , a pagan chieftain of Leinster and mother Brocca, Christian , and former slave baptized by St Patrick according to hagiographers.

Saint Brigid is celebrated even today, as a great helper of the poor , for she was always, ever since childhood  widely  known  to give charity. According to  one legend    ;  as child she gave away her mother’s whole store of butter, which was later replenished miraculously as answer to St. Brigid’s prayers.
She founded a small cathedral city, starting from small oratory cathedral of Cil Dare or Kildare , that had monasteries for man and women. Oak wood is associated with Kildare and knowing that and association of Madonna’s lily ( Lilium candidum ) and Brigid’s anemone ( Anemone Coronaria ) , we can compound an oil suitable for work with her, use on Imboloc, Candlemass

St Brigid’s oil

• Piece of Oak wood
• Madonna Lily flower
• Brigid’s Anemone
• Few drops of milk or melted butter
• Olive oil as base with Vit E capsule

According to   an early Orthodox Christian legend, she was able to take her eye out of head, which  in turn ,convinced her father not to force her to marry a men she did not like, and was supposed to go for. She had than prayed to Lord and was through Divine help able to put her own eye back into her head and completely heal.
It has also been reported that she healed a leprous man who   had  brought a cow to be blessed by St, Brigid ( in some versions asked for a cow ), she cursed the apple trees at one monastery because of pettiness and parsimony of a nun that gave her basket  full of apples,  which she had gave out to poor, prompting the nun  to complain about  it  . She had also been known to bless fruit trees of those that gave away to the poor, and those trees would accordingly be healthy and bear twice as more fruit than earlier .

Her color is white, for she is depicted wearing white or black robes, holding a lamp, symbolic of purity, perpetual Divine light and Illumination. Her symbol is  Brigid’s Cross.
Her feast day is 1st February, or 14th among Orthodox Christian churches that follow Julian calendar.
On Imboloc she is often offered with butter and milk, which might have to do with legend about her childhood charity act and miracle or restoration of butter. One such example is given latter

Imboloc ideas, charms , spells and divinations

Imboloc is traditional time for divination , and  in  some of the   traditions,   also initiation. Partucularily prominent are weather divinations , and pyromancy.
For example seeing a cat scratch her ear on Imboloc was supposedly sing of storm, closed pine cones predicted  moist/damp  weather. If Candlemass weather is nice and pleasant, winter will be there for a while ( more ), and vice-versa   , If it rains and is cold on Candlemass rain is gone. If a groundhog sees it's own shadow on the  Candlemass day, it apparently means there are six more weeks of Winter [2] I have had written on association of mythical figure Cailleach and weather divination here http://shadowsmagickplace.blogspot.com/2010/02/imbolc-fire-oil-and-weather-divination.html

This is also the day associated with all sort of divinations. In Eastern Europe for example, quite popular are  some  fire divinations   ;  where the flames would be asked questions, and the bending would be inspected, for answers . Today same can be done with  a simple candle flame , minding some basic “code”  to interpret  the  answers/omens,

• flame bending left – no
• flame bending right – yes
• flame decreasing or bending down – slowly, maybe , weakly
• flame rising or bednig up – swiftly, likely to, prominently
• flame flickering often – omen of danger, approaching or passing
• flame burning strongly, steadily and bright – good fortune, presence of kind spirits

People  also like to do bone divinations, in Eastern Europe pelvic bone divination is often employed, where dots, colors and auspicious shapes are inspected. Also , often consulted is    the chicken’s wishbone. Smaller bone fraction ending  up in right hand meant “no” , while the bigger faction meant “yes”. Usually employed to see if some wish is coming true.

Milk is sometimes poured into cauldron with optional addition of butter, and chosen plants   are  dipped. Cauldron is encircled with candles, and praye d over. The plants are then taken out, dried and considered to be extremely powerful in magick and charm making, so used throughout the year. This simple ritual symbolizes another common practice of Imolc and that’s empowerment and consecration of items . Since it’s believed that Brigid or St. Brigid walks among humans on this day, people leave ribbons, fabrics , stockings etc outside, in the eve and in the morning they collect this, now charged power objects that are believed to bestowed luck and blessings. This was often done by Young maidens for the it’s believed that the St.Brigid is particularly   kind to them.

Many candles are lit, usually on windows sills, to greet the lengthening of the day. Any candle could be asked question and then through ceromancy , answer s obtained.

Here is a neat suggestions for the ritual according to Cass Eason :

“Make one very large candle to serve as the main Candlemass candle, and when You light it allow everyone to make a secret wish for the coming spring.
As You make smaller candles to shine in every window , visualize each one being endowed with optimism, for new beginnings, new directions and plans, and name one for each absent family member or friend.
Prepare a feast that includes delicious seed breads and cakes, milk, honey, seeds of all kind, lamb and dairy products, and spend the evening playing party games and charades.
If You have decision to make light two candles of the same size and thickness and endow each with an option. The one to burn down first indicates the right choice” [3]

Colors of the day are white, silver , pale yellow. Corresponding stones and gems include but are not limited on : Rubies, Sun Stone , Bloodstone, Garnet, Onyx, , Amber etc. Incenses include Frankincense, Bay, Ben zoin , Basil , Myrrh , Dragon’s blood and Cinnamon, among other, and herbs Angelica, Basil, Bay, Rosemary , Snowdrop, Daisy, Saffron, Sage and others.

Have a bright, Blessed Imboloc
Blessings Shadow

NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, so If You would like to use any part of it elswhere, provide credits, Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post.CREDITS AND REFFRENCES:[1] www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brigit_of_Kildare
[2] paraphrased from, Doreen Valiente “Natrail magic” and “Folklore in Adam county Illinois” by Harry Middletone Hyatt, used for educative and explanatory purposes here
[3] Quoted from Cassandra Eason’s “Candle magick” , for explanatory and discussion purposes, without any ill will
IMAGE CREDITS:IMAGE CREDITS : St Brigid’s image is from , Wikipedia site, as listed under [1] above, Candles image is common Microsoft word application, slightly edited by myself, and both are used here for illustrative and explanatory purposes only, without ill will