Thursday This Is Your Spell – Witches’ Bottles

Witches’ Bottles

There are many legends connected with what are called 'Witches’ Bottles'....basically a Witches’ Bottle is a jar or bottle that is filled with something while being charged by a spell, and then sealed. They are often used to protect  a  house or home, since evil spirits are said to have to stop and count every item in the bottle before they can enter a home. Many things can be used in a bottle of protection ... you can use earth, sand, small pebbles, buttons, pins, crushed glass, threads, acorns, etc etc etc (in fact in one X-files episode the writer obviously used this when Agent Fox Mulder was saved from a vampire when the vampire had to stop and count all Fox's spilled sunflower seeds <LOL>!)

Making A Witches’ Bottle

First select the bottle you want to use. Your bottle maybe clear or tinted. If you're working with a colored bottle, choose a color that suits what you are doing. Tinted bottles are great for spells that use color correspondences. Once you have a bottle, wash it with warm soapy water, or cleanse it in the ocean. After you have washed it, magically cleanse it and bathe it in the light of the full moon. When the bottle is clean it is time to fill it. There are a lot of options when it comes to contents, such as very sharp objects like nails, pins, safety pins, needles, or sand, for protection from unfriendly forces. Filling a bottle with collected  herbs, resins, leaves, roots, and spices can assist you in creating any number of wards, spells, or talismans. Add a base oil or cider vinegar and you have wonderful gifts for your friends, that will not only enhance their magical life but also their cooking! Another option is filling the bottle with a variety of flower petals selected for their healing properties, attributes, or correspondences to planetary or other forces. (You may want to include a bit of alcohol, vinegar, or olive oil to preserve the flowers.)

As you can see, witches’ bottles have unlimited possibilities, are easy to make, and can be adapted to whatever need you may be trying to fill. Protection, love, health, or even just decoration, this is one of the most versatile tools in a witches’ possession. I am including several different possible creations today. Always remember though, make anything you do yours. No spell or recipe is set in stone, nor should it be. The powers in the world are mutable and adaptable as is any good witch, using what’s at hand to work her magic. These are guidelines. That being said, here are a few examples of possible witches’ bottles you can create : )

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* Kid's Button Bottle *

This is a good craft/spell project for pagan kids. Take an unbreakable jar with a screw on cap - or use a Rubbermaid type container. Have the child place pretty buttons in the bottle all the while saying:

"Button, Button,
Nine times nine,
Protect this house
And room of mine."

When the jar is full it can then be placed near the door to the house, or better yet under the child's bed! (You all know a child or two (or an adult <eg>) that is afraid that eviiiiiiiiiiilllllllllllllll clowns live under the bed!)

 

Earth Witches’ Bottle

Using your projective hand as a funnel, pour fresh, clean soil into a long, small, clean, sterile bottle or spice jar. While doing so, charge the earth with protection, while chanting the appropriate rhyme of your own creation. Fill to the top. Cap the bottle. Place this near an entrance such as a door or window.

 

Red Wine Witches’ Bottle

Needed:

• rosemary
• needles & pins
• small glass jar with tight fitting lid or cork stopper
• red wine
• black or red candle (for wax to seal the jar)

Fill the the jar using the rosemary, needles and pins. As you're filling the jar, say these words...

"Pins, needles, rosemary, wine,
In this witch's bottle of mine;
Guard against harm and enmity;
This is my will; so Mote it Be!"

When as full of those items as possible, pour in red wine and shake. Seal with black or red wax. If you own your own house, bury this at the furthest most corner of your property. If you rent, place it in an inconspicuous place.

Herbal Witches’ Cleansing Bottle

Needed:

• large clear bottle
• sand
• dried rosemary
• dried lemon peel
• dried sage
• dry cedar
• black peppercorns
• dried lavender
• dried dill
• dried bay leaves
• dried rowan
• white candle (for wax to seal the jar)

Pour a layer of sand into the bottle, then add the herbs in layers. When the bottle is full, focus cleansing protective energy into the herbs and sand, and see a golden light radiating from the bottle. Visualize the herbs driving away negative influences. Cork and seal the bottle with white wax. Using a permanent marker, draw the Algiz rune

Image from Techno Feng Shui

on one side of the bottle, and on the other side draw a pentagram.

Set the bottle near your front or back door, and every six months uncap and pour the herbs out into the woods or you compost heap. Thoroughly wash and dry the bottle before filling it with a new round of herbs : )

 

Binding Spell

This spell is for binding a violent or dangerous person from doing harm. Caution: do not bind someone without very good reason. It doesn’t matter if you believe in Karma or Universal Balance or not. Belief doesn’t change reality. Also when considering a spell like this, remember magic isn’t always clean, pretty or nice…

Needed:

• photo of person to be bound

OR

• a piece of white parchment paper with their whole name written on it in black ink or dove's blood ink.
• 18 inches or so of black silken cord or black thick string, like embroidery floss.
• A small glass jar w/cork lid.
• A small white candle
• A small black candle

Light both your candles. Write the name on the paper or take the photograph in hand. Fold the paper or photo into as small a rectangle as possible. Take the cord in hand and begin to wind it around the rectangle, for a total of nine loops,
saying aloud in a clear, strong voice:

I (your name ), bind thee (name of offending person )
from causing harm to (name of victim here),
from exerting control over this person,
from influencing this person.
I bind you from making further plans with this person.
I call upon the angels, Auriel, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael
(or any other guides or deities you prefer.)
to assist me in this righteous cause!
As I will,
So mote it be.

Place the paper into the jar. Urinate into the jar & cork. Seal all around the cork with the black candle wax. Let the candles burn themselves out safely. Place this jar in a place where no one will disturb it. Bury it if you must. Some prefer to keep it on their altar and send energy to it regularly.

House Protection Jar

Needed:

• 1 glass jar
• 1/2 to 1 cup salt
• 3 cloves garlic
• 9 bay leaves
• 7 tsp. dried Basil
• 4 tsp. dill seeds
• 1 tsp sage
• 1 tsp anise 
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fennel
• 1 bowl

In the morning, ideally on a bright sunny day, assemble the items. Place all in the bowl and say:

"Salt that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the cloves of garlic:

"Garlic that protects, protect my home and all within."

Crumble the Bay leaves and place in the bowl:

"Bay that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the basil and say:

"Basil that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the dill and say:

"Dill that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the sage and say:

"Sage that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the anise and say:

"Anise that protects, protect my home and all within."

Add the fennel and say:

"Fennel that protects, protect my home and all within."

Mix together the salt and the herbs with your hands, throughout the movement of your hands and fingers lend energy to the potent protective items, visualize your home safe and as a shining secure place. Pour the mixture in the jar and cap tightly, Place it in your home with these words:

"Salt and herbs, nine times nine
Guard now this home of mine"

Inspiration Jar

Purpose: To bring on inspiration. For creativity.
Neede:d

• Mason jar
• Small crystal
• Dried orange peels (two-thirds)
• Dried mint (one-third)
• 2 drops orange essential oil
• 1 drop mint essential oil
• Square piece of black cotton fabric
• Rubber band
• Orange fabric paint or orange acrylic
• Orange ribbon

**Note: The color orange is the color of creative energies. The shading (how dark or light the orange is) that you use will denote the level of creative energies you wish to channel. A dark orange will take you deep into the creative energies while a light orange is less intense.
Moon cycle: No moon cycle is selected for this spell because all phases of the moon hold different levels of creative energies, including the dark moon. If you follow moon phases, choose the cycle that fits your purpose best.

Gather ingredients. With a clean and dry jar before you, place the mint first and then the orange peels inside, filling it up about two-thirds of the way. Add two drops of orange essential oil and one drop mint essential oil. More if you are using a large mason jar. Stir ingredients together. Take the small crystal in your hand and say something such as:

"Creativity come to me
In whispers and dreams
And visions that gleam."

Place the crystal inside the jar with the potpourri. For the lid, cover the opening of the jar with black fabric so that the side of the fabric hangs down over the edges about 2 inches. With a pencil, mark the center top of the fabric. Take the fabric off the jar, lie it flat on a hard surface. Using orange paint, acrylic or fabric paint, paint on a spiral. (for those of you who are like me – can trip over a breeze…while the paint is drying, cover the jar temporarily with a lid so that it doesn't get spilled. )

Associations:

• Spiral: The spiral is a symbol of the dance of life. It shows the continuous cycle of ourselves going inward (within ourselves/our psyche) and then going outward (expressing ourselves).
• Black: The black fabric in this spell is used as an absorption color. Black absorbs all colors, all energies. By placing the orange spiral on this we are signifying just what those energies are that the black is absorbing, all creative energies.

Once the paint is dry, place the fabric on the jar once again. The spiral should now be on the centered top of the jar's mouth. Holding the fabric in place, wrap the rubber band around the sides to hold it in place. Next, tie the orange ribbon overtop of the rubber band. Keep this inspiration jar in your work area, where you can smell it’s inspiring scents - where you do your writing, painting, drawing, or keep it by your bed to bring on inspiring dreams.

Money Jar

Needed:

• paper & pen
• seven dimes
• quart jar with screw-on lid
• bay leaf

Write your need on the paper and drop it into the jar. Take 7 dimes in your dominate hand and place them one by one into the jar. As each one drops, visualize it multiplying into huge amounts and say:

"Toward this wish, the money grows
by leaps and bounds - it overflows.
Coins that jingle, coins that shine
come to me now - you are mine."

Write your name on the bay leaf and drop it into the jar. Screw on the lid and place the jar where you can see it everyday, but where it is not visible to everyone who enters your home. Add a coin or two to the jar each day, and watch as money flows to you from unexpected sources. After you obtain the money you need, remove the paper and bury it outside.

Sacred Salt Jar

This is not only great to have for oneself, but it makes a nice gift to someone special if you happen to know what scents they like or stones they like. Since what you put into it is "yours", it is like giving a part of yourself, too. This mixture is excellent to charge stones in and to "simmer energies". Once it has blended
for a few months, a pinch can be added to rituals, etc., bathwater or as a gift to Mother Earth. You can also make a "starter salt" as a gift for a friend. You can also give of your own sacred salt mixture to a special friend to help blend powers and energies when they make their own  sacred salt mixture : ) 
The mixture should be made and kept in a covered stone or Earthen jar, but can be made and kept in a covered glass jar until you find one that is suitable. There are different schools of thought on what kind of salt to use. Some use rock salt, some Earth salt and some sea salt, some even use normal table salt. Whatever salt you use, make sure that it is "natural" and not iodized.

Blend the salt with chopped or ground herbs, tiny crystals, small stones, nuts seeds,  jewelry, locks of hair, ground incense and a few drops of your favorite oils, anything that you wish. Even rose petals and other flowers. When you have cleansed and charged stones and crystals by sun and Moon, place them in this mixture to store until you wish to use them or give them as gifts.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions / recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog

Saturday Something – Tarot Reading Tips & History

Tarot Reading Tips & History

The exact origin of the tarot is not known, but it is thought that they originated from somewhere around India and were brought to Europe with the Gypsies. The earliest known deck seems to have appeared around the fourteenth century. During the Renaissance, the tarot was a part of a growing interest in the studies of the mystic arts, such as Qabbalah and alchemy. The tarot saw a revival in the nineteenth century and has been enjoying popularity ever since.

The modern day deck of playing cards is believed to have come from the tarot The face cards of the tarot deck are the King, Queen, Knight, and Page(where in some decks, the Knight and Page are known as the Prince and Princess, respectively). As the modern day playing card deck began to evolve the Knight was dropped and the Page became the Jack. The suits of the tarot are related to the suits of playing cards. The suit of spades is equivalent to the tarot suit of swords, and diamonds corresponds to pentacles. The clubs equals the tarot suit of wands or staves and the hearts corresponds to cups in the tarot deck.

Choosing your own tarot deck is a very personal thing; every deck "feels" different to every person. You should choose the deck whose images really speak to you. For me, I have only found one deck that “speaks” to me, and in turn through me. I have tried many different decks, but have ended up giving them away. That’s another thing – you will find a deck to be much more “effective” when it comes as a gift. If you want to become a collector of decks, then by all means purchase all you want. But you will find that for use, a gift deck will be what you want to use.

I have also found FOR ME that for my deck to be mine, it can only be handled by me. Ever. When I read for someone, I shuffle the deck while they focus on their question. I’ve had it remarked that this would make it harder to achieve accuracy, but for me that just hasn’t been the case. So far, my readings have seemed to be pretty accurate. In addition, when I read for someone, I prefer they not tell me their question until after the reading. If I know what they are looking for it tends to color my readings. The cards may be trying to tell this person something that will be overlooked or misinterpreted if I am only looking for information relating to say love or finances.

After I do the reading of what I see, I then inquire about their specific question, and look deeper, for alternate meaning relating to their question. While there are specific associations for each card, each card can also have numerous meanings. As can the meanings of cards vary in relation to each other. The same exact fall of cards can have drastically different meanings for different people.

I use the picture on each card - I rely on the information gained by doing so quite heavily, which may be part of the reason I only use a specific deck. I dunno – I’ve had some beautiful decks, but just couldn’t “read” them. A good way to pick your own deck is to find a website that carries many different decks. A good one, and a site I shop frequently is Capricorn’s Lair. Go to the site & find decks you like. Then go to search engine like Google and type in the name. You should be able to find examples of the artwork, pictures of the cards. Once you’ve narrowed the selection somewhat, then go find a store in your area that sells many different decks, and see if they have the ones on your list. New Age and metaphysical bookstores are more likely to have a good selection on hand, although many chain bookstores do carry the more popular ones, such as the Rider-Waite, and will be glad to special order any of the other decks. When you visit the store, ask if they will let you look at a deck from the box, but I have a warning note here: if you do not know much about the tarot, you may not think this is a big deal, but many tarot readers will not buy a deck that has been handled by others. A deck is a personal thing, and many tarot readers believe that their decks take on something of themselves. Personally, I would never buy an unsealed deck – even with cleansing, I prefer a few hands as possible to have touched them.

You can also purchase carrying/storage cases for cards, either from a webstore or an actual store, but I personally made mine. Granted I am somewhat skilled at sewing, so it was only natural for me to do so, but making a bag is extremely easy. All you need is a piece of silk the width of your deck plus 2 1/2 inches, by the length of your deck plus 2 1/2 inches. Fold it in half long-ways, right sides together, and stitch up the sides. Fold over the top about 3/4 of an inch, and stitch it where the edge of the fabric meets the rest of it, leaving an opening you can run a piece of leather or a ribbon thru and tie it closed. Again, making your own limits the energies going into it. Place your cards in your case, and put them under your pillow, leaving them there for a couple of nights, to absorb your energy.  

There are many good sites out there in cyberspace. There are also many charlatans. One of the ones I have found that I like is ifate. It shows several layouts, and what each card position represents. It will also allow you to receive a reading, and the one time I did it came back fairly accurate in a generic sort of way : ).

There is however, more to reading the tarot than card meanings and positions. A large number of one type of card can add insight and greater depth to your readings. Here are some examples and their suggested meanings:

• A large number of Major Arcana indicate an important time in the querent’s life. The decisions made and the actions taken will have long term consequences. The Major Arcana holds sway over our spiritual life, matters of our inner being.
• If the cards are predominantly Minor Arcana, the querent’s question is of a mundane matter. Despite how important it may seem at the time, it will have little effect in the long run. Our character or nature will remain as it is.
• A large percentage of Wands can indicate growth and energy. A large percentage of Court Cards that are Wands indicate business transactions.
• An excess of Cups can indicate that the question has to do with love, children or pleasure. An excess of Cup Court Cards indicate delightful company.
• A great deal of Swords suggests aggressive ambition or destructive activities. A great deal of Sword Court Cards indicate conflict.
• Many Pentacles would indicate that the querent’s question revolves around money, goods or material gain. Many Court Cards that are Pentacles indicate politics or high finance.
• Specific Court Cards or numbers have their meanings as well. A large number of Court Cards can indicate the influence of a great many people. A situation that is almost beyond the control of the querent.
• A large number of Kings relate to honors and meetings of those of high rank.
• A large number of Queens can indicate powerful friends and influence.
• Many Knights can foretell haste and unexpected meetings.
• A great deal of Pages denote news and other messages.
• Many Aces indicate power, force and success. They are often the cards of beginnings as well.
• Twos in number reflect partnerships and important conversation.
• Many Threes reflect determination, but one must beware of the truth being bent.
• A large number of Fours represents rest earned through good planning and hard work.
• A great deal of Fives almost always indicates quarrels and difficulties.
• Many Sixes represent gain and pleasure.
• Sevens in number indicate agreements as well as possible disappointments.
• Many Eights can represent news or journeys.
• Nines in number warn of added responsibilities.
• A great deal of Tens can indicate heavy responsibility, commerce and anxiety.

Taken in part from:

The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages by Paul Foster Case
A Complete Guide to the Tarot by Eden Gray

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions / recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog

Monday Make A - Set of Witch's Runes

This medium can be used in the same way as the tarot.

Witches Runes
Witches Runes contain 13 Runes... One for every moon of the year. The Symbols on these runes have been known for many years, some are from the pictish runes dating back hundreds of years, the examples of some can still be found in museums. Both examples of these stones have been used as a method of divination. Each rune is associated to a particular time, which is incorporated into a reading to give a timescale of events. The Third Eye symbol represents the person who the reading is being done for. At the Beginning of a reading it is removed from the rest of the stones and placed in the center of the area to be used for the reading. The Person who is having the reading, should hold the stone for a few minutes whilst thinking of the question to ask. After the rune has been placed in the reading area, the remaining runes are then thrown to fall all round the Third Eye symbol... revealing the influences in times and space around the individual.

Much like in a Tarot reading, the runes appearing face down, would indicate the opposite of the usual meaning. However, many Tarot readers choose to disregard any "upside down" or "backwards" influences indicated by inverted cards, and this seems to work for them. I would say the same could be done in a Rune reading. I feel that the Runes, like the Tarot Cards, are most strongly influenced by the reader, and the energy/intentions of the person who most often handles them. If you truly believe upside down or inversion doesn't signify anything special, then your energy will contain that information, and the medium (runes or cards) will reflect that.

Sun Rune is ruled, naturally by the Sun. This rune sheds light on the issue, clarifying things and bringing them sharply into focus. The Sun also points out power places in your reading. Thus, where the Sun turns up, you can expect much activity or strength.

Moon Rune is ruled by the Moon. Whenever this stone appears, you can be certain that the question you are posing is somehow linked to your past, especially subjects involving childhood issues. The Moon Rune rules genetics, family, memory, feeling, intuition, instincts, and dreams. This stone stands for inheritances, female relatives, a woman or a man of wisdom.

Flight Rune is ruled by Mercury, and like the planet Mercury the meanings behind this stone involve the news, travel and all types of communications.

Rings Rune is ruled by Venus, which represent partnerships, good vibes, good fortune, easy flow, the appetite, beauty, art marriage, not wanting to go it alone, and acquired wealth.

Romance Rune is ruled by the conflicting energies of Venus and Mars, therefore this stone carries a great deal of weight in any reading, since it has to do with reconciling opposites. You can expect magnetic attractions, romantic estrangement, as well as other intrigues and scandals.

Woman Rune is also ruled by Venus, but it corresponds more to the energies of the signs Taurus and Cancer. Read this stone first as a woman and pay close attention to what house it falls in.

Man Rune is ruled by Mars, and thus, the house in which this rune appears will be a place of much physical activity. In general, the Man Rune quickens or speeds up certain actions and developments in the chart. But it is also the rune of recklessness, impulsivity, and certain dangers.

Harvest Rune is ruled by Jupiter, planet of openness and ease. This stone speaks of obstacles being lifted and important goals achieved, so it is one of the more fortunate runes in the reading. In this way, the Harvest Rune is the payoff for the many projects you have put into action, especially in the areas of interest where you have concentrated most of your energies.

Crossroads Rune Although the message this rune carries can be ominous and it gives a strong warning, there are houses in which the Crossroads Rune falls that are positive in the sense that they represent substantial progress being made (albeit, this progress is slow and you may encounter many pitfalls).

Star Rune is jointly governed by the planets Uranus and Venus. Therefore, the Star Rune rules your highest goals and dreams, especially those that have impacted your life in a deep or meaningful way. The Star Rune can indicate fame or accumulating property and wealth.

Waves Rune is ruled by watery Neptune, planet of deception and unrealized goals. The reading of this stone has a lot to do with what kind of person you are.

Scythe Rune ruled by Pluto, is the planet of "the hidden," but it is also an avenger and exposer of core truths. Therefore, this is not a very fortunate rune for those involved in denial.

Eye Rune is governed by the Sun and Pluto, both planets of tremendous pull and magnetism. Wherever this stone appears is often an issue of immediate concern and should be addressed accordingly.

Images & Meanings found at Witchloc

** Making your own Runes **

The runes you make yourself are always going to be more powerful and more attuned to you than the runes that you buy at a store. Not that there's anything wrong with store-bought runes. I also strongly feel that a "gift" will have much more power than something you buy for yourself. I think it is because buying for yourself carries an implication of wanting to benefit (usually monetarily) from the item...Just my opinion.

You can make your runes out of wood either by cutting 14 (or 13 if you're not using a Blank Rune) same-size squares from a board (remembering to sand the edges of each piece smooth) or getting a wooden dowel about 1 to 1 and a half inches in diameter, and cutting the dowel into 14 (or 13) disks about half to three quarters of an inch thick. If you don't want to deal with the hassle of saws and cutting and sanding (and who could blame you?), most arts and crafts stores have precut wood in various sizes and shapes that are relatively inexpensive and perfectly cool to use. Just keep in mind, the more you do to create this, or any magical tool, the more there is of your energy imbued in it. If you want to use natural wood, go for a walk in the woods, find a tree with which you have a connection, and ask it for an appropriately sized branch that you can cut the runes from. Always ask permission, and always leave an offering behind as thanks.

Wooden runes are cool, but so are stone ones (plus, you get that fun clicking sound!), and with stone, you can use your favorite gemstone. Or you can just go on another walk, down to a river or creek, and find your stones that way. As always, ask for permission and leave an offering. If you're using stones, try to get each one as close to the same size as possible, and make sure that at least one of the stone's sides is nice and flat (It is very difficult to draw or inscribe on a round, bumpy, hilly surface!). If you chose to use stones, take the time to investigate the different associations for the stone you like.

Once you have all your stones, or all your wooden pieces, it's time to inscribe them with the runes. If you are using wood, you can use a wood-burning tool to inscribe each one. Or you can use paint. I suggest using paint for your stones. If you use paint on the stones, be sure to clear-coat each rune with some shellac to preserve the paint. I would recommend at least three coats, preferably 6, with ample drying time between each application. The simplest way to apply the clear coat is (using a container you can discard when done) empty about 1” – 2” in the bottom, them drop each stone into it. Use a pair of large tweezers or hemostats (these cam be found at most any flea market) to remove the stones from the clear coat substance. Make sure to set painted side up to dry, and DON’T DRY THEM ON PAPER, as it will stick to the clear coat. Probably the best surface for drying would be an old cookie sheet. Spraying the drying surface with a non-stick spay, like Pam (or the store brand equivalent) would probably be a good idea, too. What color paint you use is entirely up to you, although I find red to be an all-around good color for runes.

Once the runes are dry, you are ready to cleanse and consecrate them and then the runes are ready for you to use. Keep your runes with you; carry them in a pouch in your purse or briefcase, sleep with them at night, give them a designated spot on your altar during rituals. Meditate with them. You may discover different interpretations as you work with the runes, much like Tarot cards have alternate meanings, depending on the reader & the situation of the person being read. Practice working with them, and they will become a part of you.
And they will never let you down.
- Adapted from instructions by Lady Phoenix MoonFlame, found at Bewitching Ways -

** Ritual for Dedicating, Cleansing, and Consecrating a Set of Runes **

This can be used for a new set of runes made by your own hand, a used set of runes, or (especially) a store-bought set of runes. I have found that used runes, much like used Tarot cards, usually isn’t a good idea. But then again, I have a lot of “funny” ideas about a lot of things. Like the direction/element associations. And my cards. I don’t let anyone touch my Tarot cards. I prefer they have only my energy in them. (That will be a post for another day…)
Set up your altar as you usually set it.
Put an incense at North, a bowl of salt at East, a candle at South, and a bowl of water at West. Three pieces of yarn or thread in black or deep purple, red or green, and white-should be on the altar, as well as a cauldron (any size as long as it can contain all your runes), and the runes to be consecrated. ***Please note, my directional/elemental associations are different than what you will usually see elsewhere. For my reasoning, you can go here.

Timing:
Research your timing so that it feels right to you. I have done this ritual during Libra, a sign of balance, just after the full of the moon, but you may find different correspondences more appropriate. Or no correspondence at all. This is a situation where I would consider using correspondences. If you are working everyday magic, I don't feel they are as important, however when creating tools, it should be looked at.

Ritual:
Cast circle in your usual manner. Call quarters in your usual manner
Invoke the Goddesses by saying the following:

I call upon the Goddesses, the Ladies of my world.
Come, Cailleach, the crone, and bring your wisdom
Come, Cerridwen , the mother, and bring your maternal instinct
Come, Branwen, the youngest, the maiden, and bring the promise of the future
Come, Ladies of my world, and assist your daughter (son) in this ritual.

Hold up the new set of runes and say:

I give you these stones, turned to runes by my own hand, tonight may they be instilled with the power of time until they return, from whence they came, to sand.

One by one, pick up each rune, say it's name and a quick word association of its meaning, and then place it into the cauldron. Then, pick up the black (or deep purple) yarn/thread and place it in the cauldron, saying:

Cailleach, eldest Lady, Crone, lay your blessings upon these runes, give them your wisdom, gleaned from the past. Let them ring with your knowledge vast!

Place the red (or green) yarn/thread in the cauldron, saying:

Cerridwen, middle Lady, Mother lay your blessings upon these runes, instill within them the balancing power of Now allow them to aid others with my solemn vow!

Place the white yarn/thread in the cauldron, saying:

Branwen, youngest Lady, Maiden, lay your blessings upon these runes, fill them with the promise of the Yet to Be, let them be open so that others may see!

Place hands over cauldron; Visualize the Goddesses infusing the runes with their gifts as swirls of black, red, and white light, which mingle to form a gold light. When you feel that the infusion is complete, take a minute to reground and center, focusing all your personal energy into the center of your being. Take a deep breath and hold it a second, imagining that your energy and that breath are fusing into one, then blow all that energy, all that is yourself, into and onto the runes in the cauldron.
When ready, take the cauldron to the North corner and present the runes. Pass the cauldron through the smoke of the incense saying:

Spirits of the North, Bless these runes with the breezy presence of air!

Move to the East and present the runes. Pass the cauldron through the incense, saying:

Spirits of the East, Bless these runes with the stabilizing presence of earth!

Move to the South and present the runes. Pass the cauldron through the flame, saying:

Spirits of the South,Bless these runes with the flaming passion of fire!

Move to the West and present the runes. Sprinkle water in the cauldron, saying:

Spirits of the West, Bless these runes with the ever-changing flow of water!

Move to the center of the circle and present the runes, saying:

Spirits of the Center, Bless these runes with the all-encompassing presence of Spirit!

When finished, place the cauldron with the runes on center of the altar, and let them sit there overnight. (Next day, place the entire contents of the cauldron in a black leather pouch or other container. Leave the colored yarns in the bag so that The Goddesses have continuous contact with the runes.)
Thank the Goddesses by saying:

I thank you, Ladies of my world - Cailleach, the past; Cerridwen, the present; Branwen the future, for your presence at this ritual. Go if you must, stay if you like; be ever near to heart and mind.
Blessed be!

Close quarters
Close circle

-Adapted from a ritual By Lady Phoenix MoonFlame, found at -Bewitching Ways

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Sunday Surprise - Cauldron Lore

Image from "Halloween Witches & Cauldron Props"

GOD & GODDESSES ASSOCIATED WITH CAULDRONS
Most info from Encyclopedia Mythica

Arthur - The Spoils of Annfwn (Preideu Annwfn) is a short Welsh poem,
dating from ca. 900, found in the Book of Talisien. It describes an expedition by Arthur and his followers to a city (possibly an euphemism for the Otherworld) where he obtains a magic cauldron. The text itself is rather enigmatic.

Bran - Bran's Cauldron of Renovation (Celtic) - It brought the dead back to life. The son of Haon, Bran was the giant king of distant haunted lands and could sail to the lands of the dead. He guarded the Cauldron of Life. He battled the children of Tir. He was finally beheaded, but his head remained alive for many years, able to prophesy.

Brigyth - This goddess guards the Cauldron of Inspiration. She has given much lore to mortals, including most crafts and the art of poetry. In some ancient tales, she is the only goddess with the skill to purify other gods who have become tainted or grievously dishonored in some way. Some modern scholars have sought to identify her with Save-K'nor.

Ceridwen - Cerridwen is the Welsh goddess of dark prophetic powers. She is the keeper of the cauldron of the underworld, in which inspiration and divine knowledge are brewed.

Dagda - Dagda's Cauldron (Celtic) - The Cauldron, Undry, had the ability to feed all who came to it and from which none left unsatisfied. Dagda is the father god of Irish mythology, his name means 'The Good' he is master of all arts and knowledge, and can be seen as one of the most powerful gods in the Irish Celtic pantheon. His symbols seem to have been the cauldron (inspiration and wisdom), and the club (probably primal power). His cauldron also has the power to restore life, and was always full, providing endless nourishment for his peoples. The cauldron appears much in Celtic mythology and becomes amalgamated into traditions of the grail in the later Arthurian Romances.

Dagyd - He is the god of fate and a master of all skills. He guards the Cauldron of Plenty. The changing of the seasons is caused by the songs of his magical harp.

Emma-o - The Japanese Buddhist god of the underworld (from the Sanskrit Yama). He lives in the Yellow Springs under the earth in a huge castle all covered in silver and gold, rosy pearls and other jewels. He is the judge of the dead and notes the sins of those who are sentenced to purgatory, and decides the degree of their punishments according to Buddha's Law. Anyone who has killed an innocent will be thrown into a boiling cauldron full of molten metal. However, if they have made a pilgrimage to each of the 33 shrines of the goddess of mercy Kannon, then all the evil they have done will disappear. Sometimes he is portrayed less pitiless and returns life to those who appear before him. On the last day of the Festival of the Dead, the sea is full of shoryobuni ('soul ships'), for on that day the high tide brings a flood of returning ghost who go back to their spirit world. The sea is luminescent with the light these souls emit, and their whispering can be heard. While the ghosts are embarking, no human ship should come near. Should one stray into the soul-covered sea, the ghosts will ask for pails. The sailors should only offer them pails without bottoms, for if they do not, the ghosts will sink their ship. Currently, Emma-o is used as a bogeyman to scare little children.

Hymir - (Norse) Hymir is a sea giant, the husband of Hrod, who lives at edge of the heaven. He possessed an enormous cauldron which the Aesir coveted because they could brew enough beer in it for all the gods, and Thor was sent to obtain it. In the final battle against the gods, Hymir will sail the terrible ship Naglfar, which is made entirely from the nails of the dead. The flood that precedes Ragnarok will free the ship after which the giants will board it and, with Hymir as commander, sail towards the battlefield of Vigrond.

Medea - In Greek mythology the Witch goddess Medea restored people to youth
in a magic cauldron.

Mider - Mider's Cauldron (Gaelic) was stolen by Cuchulainn in his foray into the Underworld, it is said that in it "was always found an inexhaustible supply of meat, with treasure of silver and gold to boot".

Pryderi/Manawyddan - (Celtic) Pryderi and Manawyddan as co-rulers of the Underworld shared ownership of a magic cauldron of inspiration. Supposedly it was the artifact that later became known as the Holy Grail.

Taliesin - The great Welsh bard Taliesin received his wisdom and skill from the goddess Cerridwen's cauldron.

* CAULDRON PROPHESIES *
From: "L CARTER"

To Gain Prophecies fill a cauldron half-full of water and place it on a table where you can see comfortably into it while seated. Light two purple candles and a good divinatory incense; a combination of mugwort and wormwood works well for divination. Arrange the candles so their light does not shine into the water or your eyes. Focus your attention on the bottom of the cauldron, your hands placed lightly on either side. Breathe gentle onto the water. Say:

"Cauldron, reveal to me that which I seek.
Great Mother, open my inner eye that I may truly see."

Empty your mind as much as possible; remain relaxed while looking deep into the cauldron waters. The answers may come in images in the water, pictures in your mind, and/or strong bursts of "knowing."

* An Indoor Cauldron Fire *

Interested in building an indoor cauldron fire, but not interested in dying or setting off the smoke alarms? Here's a suggestion: Mix equal parts Isopropyl Alcohol and Epsom Salts by weight. The by-products are mostly harmless, and it doesn't burn as hot as straight alcohol. Be sure to practice good fire safety, placing the cauldron well away from flammable materials, and on a fire-proof surface, and making sure to have fire dousing materials (such as a lid for smothering the cauldron, and a large box of baking soda for dousing anything unexpected) handy.

* CAULDRON FIRE *

~from "Circle Round" by Starhawk, Anne Hille and Diane Baker

Materials Needed:
Cast-iron pot or cauldron of any size
Lid that fits snugly, for putting out the fire
Hot plate or other heat-resistant material to set the cauldron on
Epsom salts
rubbing alcohol

Any cast iron pot can be made into a cauldron with a fire of Epsom salts and rubbing alcohol. This is a very safe blaze (still be careful!). Once the cauldron is secured on a heat-proof surface, pour the Epsom salts in until the bottom is covered, approximately 1 inch deep. Pour rubbing alcohol over the salts until the alcohol is about an inch higher than the salts. Hold a lighted match just above the alcohol. The liquid will light and produce a strong orange flame. The flame burns cool, unlike a wood fire, and is difficult to burn things in. When the flame gets low, cover to snuff out completely. Add more rubbing alcohol to the cauldron and relight carefully. The warmer the rubbing alcohol, the quicker it ignites. This fire
recipe leaves a significant amount of sediment in the cauldron.

* The Cauldron Chant *
by Ammond ShadowCraft
We form the Circle, the Circle most round.
We form the Chalice, the Chalice now found.
We call the Goddess, to meet the great need.
We call the God, to plant His fertile seed.
We call the quarters, which we call four.
We summon the powers, that contain the force.
We stir the Cauldron, from which we were born.
We call the Gods, from whom we were torn.
We say the words, which lead us round.
We pass the kiss, with our lovers found.
We face our dreams, in nights psychic flight.
We face our hopes, in bright moon of the night.
We face our fears, on the Dark Lords Horn.
We face our failure, in the Mother's new planted corn.
We live our lives, drumming and dancing on the meadow.
We confront our Death, in the dancing moon light shadow.
Our paths run quickly, on fleet foot and wing.
Our Circle is joyous, with our Queens and our Kings.
Let our little Circle be happy, with Bell, Bowl or Bow.
And form now this Circle, with gracious Love, Joy and Hope.

* Cauldron lore and spells *
from Falcon Feathers & Valkyrie Sword by D.J. Conway

The cauldron or pot symbolizes cyclical time and the lunar calendar. This is because the cauldron represents the womb of rebirth, the bowl of blood held by the Hindu Kali and other goddesses. This blood is the Wise Blood from the Cosmic Womb. It has been called soma by the Hindus, red claret by the Celts, and greal by the Welsh Bards. In Vedic myth, Indra stole the soma so that he could rule over all the gods, a reference to the stealing of importance and power from the Goddess for a patriarchal god.
The Goddess and Her cauldron is the center of all feminine power and every female group. Spiritual transformation can only come through Her cauldron,or belly-womb. Ancient tradition says that only women can tap into the great power of the cauldron, for only women are made in the image of the Goddess with Her all-renewing womb of rebirth and transformation. This tradition remains in the figure of the witch and her cauldron.
The cauldron is also the repository of inspiration and magick, as seen in Cerridwen's cauldron which was sought by the Bards. The Goddess has long been considered to be the source of inspiration and the Mistress of Magick. When a true initiation takes place, the initiate willingly descends into the cauldron, she is often filled with ecstatic emotions when she returns to her present state. She may sing, play music, dance, prophesy, see visions, or become creative in poetry and prose. In short, she is filled with Goddess spirit and inspiration, the type of power that only comes from the sacred cauldron. Such Bards as Taliesin stated that they regularly "drank" from the cauldron to promote their creativity and divine inspiration.
Magickal Meaning: development of psychic gifts; creative talents being used. Coming to terms with physical death, either through the death of someone close to you, or a very personal experience in dreams and/or meditation."

* Cauldron Magic *
-author unknown

Another popular association with Samhain is the magic cauldron. In addition to symbolizing the womb of the Goddess, the cauldron is the Celtic symbol for rebirth. As the season of Samhain concerns the transition from life into death (and from there, into life again), the cauldron and Samhain just seem to go together. If you don't work with the Faerie, a huge black cast iron cauldron is wonderful to have for your rituals and spellwork. If, like me, you work with the Faerie on a regular basis, you'll want your cauldron to be of brass, silver, or copper. You can fill the cauldron with salt or sand and create a gigantic incense burner or fill it with New Moon Water to use it for scrying. You can pile it full of apples for a holiday

* Omens of the Witch's Brew *
From Gerina Dunwich's Book "Magick Potions"

If a Witch's brew continues to boil after it has been removed from the fire, it is said to be a sign that the Witch will live to be a ripe old age! This omen originated in Europe in the Middle Ages.

A quarrel with a friend or family member is portended if a Witch's brew should accidentally be spilled on the carpet. However, it is said to be a sign of good luck to accidentally spill some upon yourself.

It is bad luck to brew philtres (love potions) wen the moon is in a waning phase or during the time know as the dark of the moon. The ideal time is during a waxing moon, especially on Valentine's day.

If two Witches stir the same brew, they will be stirring up strife, according to an old superstitious belief from England. If they both drink it from the same cup, it will bring them bad luck unless they are married or handfasted to each other.

It is said to be extremely unlucky for any Witch to heat his or her own brews and potions in a tea kettle or cauldron belonging to another. (To avoid this, a good rule of thumb is to always use your own magical tools.)

If a lady and a gentleman pour out a cup of brew from the same pot, this is an omen that a child will be born to them. If two women pour, one of them will give birth to a red-haired set of twins within the year.

It is an invitation to poverty and misfortune should you throw away herbs that are leftover from potions and brews. For good fortune to smile upon you, always dispose of used herbs by casting them into a fire.

A stranger will soon be arriving on your doorstep if you accidentally leave the lid of the tea kettle or cauldron off while preparing a magical brew. This superstitious belief hails from Victorian-era England.

It is said to be unlucky to stir a Witch's brew in a counter-clockwise direction. To do so creates bad vibrations and attracts negative influences. Always stir in a clockwise direction.

If your left eye itches while you are brewing a potion, this is an omen that sorrow shall soon find its way into your life. An itching of your right eye indicates precisely the opposite. How and where these originated is a mystery.

* Elemental Cauldrons *
unknown author

Using a cauldron, symbol of inspiration and rebirth, has brought new dimensions to both group and solitary work. A cauldron decorates the center of the Circle during Lesser Sabbats. An air cauldron at a spring rite creates a misty, magical quality for the ceremony. In summer, the cauldron will flash and spark. A blue flame burns mysteriously within the Water cauldron during the autumn festival. Throughout Yule, the Earth cauldron burns steadfast and constant. During moon rites, when magic is done, we write the purpose of our working on flash papers and toss them into the burning cauldron while chanting. A working cauldron should be of cast iron, with a tight-fitting lid, three sturdy legs, and a strong handle. Season your cauldron before using it for the first time. Pour in a generous helping of salt and lighter fluid, slosh it up to the rim and wipe dry. For indoor use it MUST have a fireproof base or your workings will summon up yellow-coated salamander spirits from the fire department.

Earth Cauldron

Layer salt, wax shavings, three powered or ground herbs, fighter fluid and ivy leaves in the cauldron while focusing and chanting. Use a candle to light it. When the smoke starts to roll, extinguish the cauldron by putting the lid on.

Air Cauldron

Using tongs, put a chunk of dry ice in a small glass or ceramic bowl and place the bowl on a cloth in the bottom of the cauldron. Allow the cauldron to smoke as long as the ice lasts. The mists create excellent images for scrying.

Fire Cauldron

Cover the inside bottom with dirt or sand to dissipate. Light incense charcoal and add either saltpeter for flame and spark or flash powder for a different but spectacular effect. To assist in releasing or firing off peak energy, try using flash "bombs". Make a small pocket in a piece of flash paper, fill with flash powder and tie with thread. The "bomb" should be about the size of your smallest fingernail. The results are spectacularly bright, so use the powder sparingly. Don't look directly at the flash as you drop the "bomb" in the cauldron.

Water Cauldron.

At least seven days before the ritual, place equal quantities of three appropriate herbs in a pint glass jar. Fill the rest of the jar with Everclear (200 proof alcohol), cap tightly, and shake gently while concentrating on the purpose of the ritual. Add a chant if its feels right. Let the jar rest in a dark, warm spot and shake twice daily, charging with purpose. Before the ritual, place a fireproof ceramic or glass bowl in the cauldron. Pour in the herb mixture, being careful none spills into the cauldron. Light with a candle to produce a beautiful blue flame.

The cauldron, as the fifth elemental spirit, symbolizes inspiration, rebirth, illumination and rejuvenation. Use a Fire cauldron with saltpeter to cast a Circle. Use the mists of an Air cauldron for an initiation. Burn away hate, prejudice and negative self-images, with a Water cauldron. The Earth cauldron is ideal for indoor Beltane rites. Remember to place a burning cauldron on a fireproof surface. Practice safety when using any volatile materials and you will enjoy your cauldron for many rites.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.