Category: tools of magic

The Mysteries of Abramelin Oil: Its History, Symbolism, and How to Use it in Magic

The Mysteries of Abramelin Oil: Its History, Symbolism, and How to Use it in Magic

Posted on by aromagregory

Abramelin oil, a concoction steeped in history and mysticism, has been woven into the narrative of occult practices for centuries. Its use in magick can be traced back to the teachings of Abraham of Worms, a presumed 14th-century Jewish scholar from Germany. It is widely believed that he lived from approximately 1362 to 1458. The oil found renewed popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries, largely thanks to Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers. The recipe for Abramelin oil is said to have been adapted from the Jewish Holy Oil of the Tanakh, which is described in the Book of Exodus

An Ancient Legacy Revisited

The tale of Abramelin oil begins with “The Book of Abramelin,” authored by Abraham Worms. This book narrates the story of an Egyptian Mage named Abramelin, who supposedly taught Abraham Worms a unique system of magic. Despite being centuries old, this magic system was revitalized in the 19th and 20th centuries when Mathers, a British occultist and Freemason, translated the book. The title morphed into “The Book of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage,” and its teachings became integrated into the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.

The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, dedicated to studying and practicing the occult, metaphysics, and paranormal activities, played a crucial role in the resurgence of Abramelin oil. The order’s study of astrology, geomancy, Tarot divination, and scrying formed the bedrock for modern magical practices such as Wicca and Thelema.

Unveiling the Recipe for Magic

The original recipe for Abramelin oil, as described in the original text, was identical to the holy oil depicted in the Bible given to Moses by God. It was a blend of myrrh, cassia, cinnamon, calamus, and olive oil. However, Mathers altered this original recipe by substituting calamus with galangal root. This change has sparked debate among scholars, attributing it to a translation error, while others argue that Mathers intentionally altered the recipe to distinguish it from the biblical mixture.

In Jewish tradition, each ingredient in the oil carries significant symbolism. The olive represents domestic happiness and security; myrrh is considered sacred; calamus symbolizes fertility and love owing to its sweetness; and cinnamon is favored for its warming properties.

A Transition from Jewish Tradition to Hoodoo Practices

Interestingly, the symbolism of these ingredients undergoes a slight transformation within Hoodoo, an African-American folk magic tradition. While myrrh and olive maintain their symbolic interpretations, cinnamon becomes associated with money and luck, and calamus subtly controls others. Including the galangal root, also referred to as ‘Chewing John’ or ‘Little John to Chew,’ adds another layer of significance. In Hoodoo, galangal root is employed for protection and court case work. An age-old Hoodoo trick to win a court case involves chewing some galangal and spitting the juice on the courtroom floor upon entry. It has been a long-standing tradition for Hoodoo practitioners to suggest adding a few pieces inside your shoes before making a court appearance.

A Sacred Oil Transcending Boundaries

bottle of holy abramelin oilAbramelin oil encapsulates a rich history and diverse symbolism, reflecting its journey from the teachings of an alleged 14th-century scholar to its incorporation into modern magical practices. Whether perceived as a sacred anointing oil steeped in biblical tradition or a potent tool in Hoodoo magic, the mystery of Abramelin oil continues to captivate and inspire. 

In Crowley’s mystical system, the oil came to symbolize the aspiration to what he called the Great Work—”The oil consecrates everything that is touched with it; it represents the Aspiration of the Magician especially as regards to the attainment of the Knowledge and Conversation of his Holy Guardian Angel.” This further underscores the profound symbolism and influence of Abramelin oil within diverse magical traditions.

From its roots in ancient Jewish tradition to its current use in various magical practices, Abramelin oil serves as a testament to the enduring power and allure of the occult. Its unique blend of ingredients, each bearing its own symbolic meaning, creates a potent mixture that continues to be used to this day in spell casting.

Ritual of Spiritual Awakening Using Abramelin Oil

This ritual is designed to aid spiritual awakening and connect the practitioner with higher powers. It uses Abramelin oil, a potent blend known for its deep roots in occult practices. Please remember that this ritual should be performed with respect and seriousness, as you are dealing with powerful forces.

Materials Needed:

Steps:

  1. Setting the Space: Place the white candle in the center of your space. This candle represents purity and spiritual enlightenment.

  2. Anointing the Candle: Take the Abramelin oil in your hands and rub them together to warm the oil. Carefully anoint the white candle with Abramelin oil, starting from the middle and moving towards the ends. As you do this, focus on your intention for this ritual.

  3. Invocation: Light the candle and sit comfortably in front of it. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, grounding yourself in the present moment. Invoke the higher powers you wish to connect with. This could be a deity, your higher self, or the universe itself. Speak clearly and respectfully, stating your intentions and requests.

  4. Meditation: Once you’ve completed your invocation, sit silently and meditate. Feel the presence of the higher powers you’ve invoked and allow their energy to fill the space around you.

  5. Closing the Ritual: After you’ve spent some time in meditation, thank the higher powers for their presence and guidance. Extinguish the candle and clear away your ritual items.

This ritual can be performed as often as you feel necessary. It’s a powerful way to connect with higher powers, seek guidance, and awaken your spiritual senses. Always remember to approach this ritual with respect and sincerity.

The Power of Using Photographs in Spell Casting: Weaving A Spell with Photos

The Power of Using Photographs in Spell Casting: Weaving A Spell with Photos

Posted on by aromagregory

Photographs can be a powerful tool in spellwork, enhancing the potency and effectiveness of your magic. Whether you’re new to witchcraft or an experienced practitioner, understanding how photographs can be used in spells can boost your magical workings.

The Folklore Behind Photographs in Magic

The belief in the power of photographs is not new. In certain cultures, it’s believed that taking someone’s photograph steals a part of their soul. While this belief may not be widespread in modern society, there is a kernel of truth in it when it comes to spellcasting.

In American folklore, there’s a long-standing belief that you could bring trouble or grief to someone by taking their photograph and tearing it up or burning it. You could even inscribe your intentions on the photograph before destroying it, further focusing the spell’s energy on your desired outcome.

Sympathetic Magic and Photographs

Sympathetic magic is all about creating connections or associations. Using a photograph of your target in your magic can create a strong link, regardless of the distance between you. This doesn’t necessarily mean using the photograph for harmful purposes. On the contrary, photographs can be used for healing and prosperity spells as well.

For instance, if someone you know is sick, you could use their photograph in a healing spell. You might rub a healing salve over the photograph or pin it to a doll, which you then nurse back to health. Or take a little Healing Energy oil and dab it on the four corners of the photograph, fold it away from you (to get rid of the illness) then place under a blue candle that is also anointed with the Healing Energy oil. If a friend is struggling financially, you could surround their photograph with coins or money-drawing herbs like five finger grass, cinnamon chips, or alala leaf.

Photographs in Petitions and Candle Work

Photographs can also be used in petitions or candle work. Instead of merely writing someone’s name, you can print out their photograph and inscribe your intentions on it. This practice can be used to draw attention to a specific person or situation.

For example, if you’re seeking a particular job, you could take a photograph of the building where the job is located and write your spell or prayer over the image. You might also anoint the photograph with success oils like Crown of Achievement or Look At Me oil to draw attention to your application.

Reaching Your Goals with Photographs in Your Spells

Photographs can be used to claim your desires, whether it’s a job, a house, or another goal. If you’re bidding on a house, for instance, you could take a photograph of it, write your petition all over it, and even paste a picture of yourself in front of the house. By claiming it as yours, you’re sending a powerful message to the universe about your intentions. You could even take a photo of your family, burn it, and spread the ashes on the edge of the yard of the house you’re bidding on.

Anointing photographs with oils that align with your intentions can add an extra layer of power to your magic. Whether it’s money-drawing oil for financial prosperity or healing oil for health and wellness, the right anointing oil can reinforce the connection between the visual representation and your magical intention.

Don’t be Afraid to Use Photocopies for Your Spell

Photographs have been used in various spiritual and magical practices as a way to symbolize or connect with the subject of a spell or ritual. However, it’s not always necessary to use original photographs in these practices. Photocopies can work just as well.

The key is not necessarily the physical properties of the photograph itself, but the connection it represents. The image on the photograph – whether it’s an original print or a photocopy – serves as a symbolic link to the person or object it depicts. As such, the power of the spell does not come from the photograph, but from the intention and energy of the practitioner.

This is particularly useful when the original photograph is not available or when it’s important to preserve the original for other reasons. A photocopy, being a replica of the original, still holds the same symbolic value. When imbued with the practitioner’s intention, it can serve as an effective tool in casting spells.

Photographs offer a potent tool for modern witches, providing a tangible link to the target of your spells. Whether you’re working on healing, prosperity, or achieving a specific goal, incorporating photographs into your spellwork can strengthen your magic and bring you closer to your desired outcome. So go through your photographs, think about the magic you’d like to create, and start experimenting with this powerful form of spellcraft. Happy magical photographing!

Moon Magic and the Phases of the Moon

Moon Magic and the Phases of the Moon

Posted on by aromagregory

moon phase magic in the night skySince the beginning of time, people have been interested in the moon. Many societies worship it, study it, and use it because of how beautiful and powerful it is. Moon magic is one way that people have learned to use the moon’s power. Moon magic is when we use the moon’s force to improve different parts of our lives. One of the most important things you need to know about moon magic is how the moon changes. There are different types of spell work for the waxing moon, the waning moon, the dark moon, the new moon – all the phases of the moon mean different things and this affects what type of magical working you perform.

The moon goes through eight different phases that depend on where it is in relation to the sun and the earth. Each phase has its own energy and qualities that make it a powerful tool for growth and creation. Knowing the moon’s orbit can enhance your spell work.

New Moon: The period of the moon starts with the new moon. It’s a time to start over, make a clean slate, and make plans. Now is a great time to make plans, start new projects, and make your dreams come true.

Waxing Crescent: The moon is in the waxing crescent phase when it starts to get bigger. We are growing and getting bigger. Now is a great time to work on learning new skills, getting more money, and bringing in good energy.

First Quarter: The moon is in the first quarter phase when it is half full. This is a time to take action, make things happen, and keep going. Use this time to move toward your goals, overcome problems, and keep going when things get tough.

Waxing Gibbous: The moon is almost full when it is in the waxing gibbous phase. This is a time for getting better and getting ready. Use this time to make changes to your plans and get ready for success.

Full Moon: The most powerful time of the moon cycle is when the moon is full. It is a time of more energy, more focus, and more light. This is a great time for meditation, meditating, and doing rituals. Use the full moon to get rid of bad energy, clear your mind, and bring about what you want.

Waning Gibbous: When the moon starts to get smaller, it goes through a process called “waning gibbous.” This is a time for being thankful, thinking, and being appreciative. Use this time to think about what you’ve done well, show gratitude, and be thankful for what you have.

Third Quarter: The third quarter is when the moon is half full and half empty. This is a time to let go, forgive, and let go of things. This is the time to let go of bad energy, break old habits, and forgive yourself and others.

Waning Crescent: When the moon is in this phase, it is almost impossible to see. This is a time to relax, start over, and get ready for the next stage. Use this part to get your energy back up, rest, and think about what’s coming next.

Moon Phase Magic: Spells and Rituals

The moon has been a source of fascination and reverence in various cultures worldwide, with its phases symbolizing different energies and opportunities for spiritual growth. Here are a few spells and rituals tied to the moon’s phases:

New Moon: Spell for New Beginnings

The New Moon represents a fresh start and is an opportune time to set new intentions and goals.

Ritual: Write down your intentions on a piece of paper. Light a white candle and meditate, visualizing your goals being realized. Fold the paper and bury it in the earth, symbolizing the planting of a seed.

Waxing Crescent: Prosperity Spell

As the moon grows, so too can your prosperity. The Waxing Crescent phase is ideal for spells related to growth and attraction.

Spell: Gather items symbolizing prosperity (like coins or a plant). Arrange them in a circle, light a green candle in the middle, and recite a prosperity affirmation, such as “As the moon grows, so does my prosperity.”

First Quarter: Courage Spell

This phase is about taking action and overcoming obstacles. It’s an excellent time for courage-boosting spells.

Ritual: Hold a piece of carnelian or tiger’s eye (stones associated with courage), visualize overcoming a particular fear or obstacle, and say, “As the moon stands strong in the sky, so do I stand strong in my life.”

Waxing Gibbous: Gratitude Ritual

The Waxing Gibbous phase is a time of anticipation and reflection, making it perfect for expressing gratitude.

Ritual: Write down things you’re grateful for on paper slips. Light a yellow candle, read each slip aloud, then burn it in the flame, releasing your gratitude into the universe.

Full Moon: Release and Healing Spell

The Full Moon is a powerful time for release and healing.

Spell: Write down what you wish to release on a piece of paper. Light a blue candle (symbolizing healing), read aloud what you’ve written, then safely burn the paper, visualizing these things leaving your life.

Waning Gibbous: Wisdom Ritual

As the moon begins to wane, it’s an optimal time for introspection and gaining wisdom.

Ritual: Meditate under the moonlight with a clear quartz crystal. Ask for wisdom concerning a specific situation. Record any insights that come to you.

Last Quarter: Forgiveness Spell

The Last Quarter is about letting go, making it ideal for forgiveness spells.

Spell: Write the name of the person you want to forgive on a piece of paper. Light a pink candle (symbolizing love), say, “I forgive you, and I release you,” then safely burn the paper.

Waning Crescent: Rest and Renewal Ritual

The Waning Crescent phase is a time of rest and renewal before the next lunar cycle.

Ritual: Take a cleansing bath with lavender or chamomile. As you soak, visualize any remaining negativity washing away, preparing you for the next lunar cycle.

Remember, these are merely guidelines. Feel free to adapt these spells and rituals to suit your personal beliefs and needs. Always ensure safety when dealing with fire or burning objects.

So, if you want to do moon magic, you need to know how the moon changes over time. Each phase has its own energy and qualities that can be used to bring things into being, grow, and heal. We can improve our lives and tap into the power of the world by using the moon’s energy in our magical work.

Secrets of Bibliomancy - Divination with Books

Secrets of Bibliomancy – Divination with Books

Posted on by aromagregory

Bibliomancy is the use of books in divination. The method of employing sacred books, especially specific words and verses, for magical purposes, to remove negative entities, or for divination is widespread in many religions of the world.

Among Christians, the Bible is most commonly used, and in Islamic cultures the Quran. A historical precedent was the ancient Roman practice of divination by casting lots. In the Bible, the Book of Psalms was often used for bibliomancy, with readers opening the book at random and interpreting the passage that they landed on as guidance or inspiration. Because these books represent the holy word of God, using them for spiritual guidance is permitted, unlike other forms of divination such as Tarot cards and spirit boards. Some people believe that old family Bibles, often inscribed with birth and death dates, are especially powerful when it comes to bibliomancy.

The key to successful bibliomancy, according to most practitioners, is that you should try to use a book that’s important to you. Once you’ve chosen your material, find a quiet spot to sit. Hold your book in your hands, and breathe deeply, centering yourself and becoming grounded. Focus your mind on the question at hand. When you’re ready, open the book to any page. Some people like to point to a random spot on the page and see what words are at their fingertips, while others prefer to simply look and note which passages catch their eye first. Some people like to roll dice to determine what page to turn to.

Are they words of hope or inspiration? Are they simply telling you what things you should be mindful of in the future? Sooner or later, you’ll figure out how they apply, and what relevance they have to the situation at hand.

Love Spell Ingredients - What Herbs, Roots, and Flowers to Use in Your Love Magick Rituals

Love Spell Ingredients – What Herbs, Roots, and Flowers to Use in Your Love Magick Rituals

Posted on by aromagregory

Love Spell Ingredients – What Herbs, Roots, and Flowers to Use in Your Love Magick Rituals

The Ways Flowers and Herbs have Been Used for Love Spells Over the Centuries

Herbs, roots, and flowers have long played a role in the art of casting love spells. Just like love itself, love magick is a delicate balance of give and take – and so are the ingredients used in casting spells of passion, love, and lust. The Romans were especially fond of basil and burned the dry leaves to attract love to them.

roses in love spells
rose petals are probably the most commonly-used ingredient in love spells

The Victorians used the language of flowers to convey their feelings to another by way of nosegays, also called tussie-mussies. Initially carried to fight off disease, these little, round bouquets of flowers and herbs were carried to send a message, depending on what flowers were included – lavender for loving devotion, bay leaves for fidelity, thyme for deep friendship, and so on. For centuries, folklore and mythology the world over have made mention of the symbolism of flowers. These meanings from many cultures are partly responsible for the ingredients used in magick and spellwork. Plants, minerals, barks, and some animal bones have historical associations with certain emotions, moon phases, seasons, and even predictions and omens. This is how we came to know which ingredients to use when casting a spell. These long-understood meanings are why thousands of men buy their love roses on Valentine’s Day – not a cactus or a bundle of ragweed.

Herbs and Ingredients to Use in Your Love Magick

Here are 25 ingredients that can be used in your rituals. Each of these herbs, plants, and ingredients has a unique property that can be beneficial in magic and love spells.

Adam & Eve root – Adam and Eve roots come from the roots of the Orchid plant. The ‘male’ roots are more elongated and usually the older ones while the ‘female’ root is rounded in shape and comes from younger ones. They are used in pairs for love work to make a relationship more committed and secure. For this reason, many people turn to Adam and Eve roots for strengthening a marriage.

Balm of Gilead – said to ease the pain of a broken heart and to comfort those in need. Since it is known for calming arguments, it is often used in magic dealing with reconciling two people, bringing peace to a troubled marriage, and helping to make a couple’s home peaceful again.

Basil – used in spells of love to make emotions sweeter, it is often called upon to bring arguments to an end and dissipate negative emotions between two lovers. Often used for luck.

Bay Leaf – this well-known culinary herb was once used to crown Greek victors. Brings protection, success, and visions. It can magically be used as an alternative to petition paper, similar to the way some write on the bark. Can be used as a jinx deterrent by placing in the four corners of your property, your house, or a room.

Blood root – a native plant to the Americas, bloodroot was used by Native Americans to create dye but also for love. Magically, it is a marriage protector and aids in promoting harmony among family members, especially in-laws, to help prevent them from interfering in your marriage. Sew inside the pillowcases of you and your spouse if you feel someone is trying to disrupt your marriage.

Buckeye – carried to bring you money, good luck, and has also been used by some in divination by turning the buckeye into a pendulum. In the hoodoo, it is said to keep your pockets full of money. In the love department, it can be used as a charm for male potency, to protect your relationship, and to heat up the passion between two people.

Catnip – used in spells for joy, contentment, and beauty. It has been used to make another fall for you with its powers of attraction. In attraction spells, it is meant to draw people to you and have them bask in the glow of your company.

Coffee bean – increases powers of persuasion. Often used to stimulate spells and potions to make results happen faster. Used as an ingredient in passion spells to increase male desire. Damiana – the herb of passion that sparks new interest in your sex life; it is known as the ‘love herb.’ Is used in all kind of magick that deal with sexuality, stamina, and virility.

Deer’s Tongue – used in opening up communication, which is good for solid relationships. Can be used in drawing a love interest towards you.

Dixie John – used for matters of love and family, it is also called Southern John or Low John. If an interloper threatens your marriage, Dixie John is said to drive them away. Also known by the names Beth root, Red Trillium, and Wake Robin. Said to be good for the sex life.

Honeysuckle – the sweet scent of honeysuckle is said to bind a lover to you. Because it draws things near, many use it with green candles and the herb alfalfa to draw in more money. Some use honeysuckle oil to increase their psychic abilities by anointing the forehead.

Hydrangea – often used in love magic as a replacement for Queen Elizabeth Root. Widely known as an unhexing plant that can be worn on yourself or scattered around the house. Some burn the root to rid a property of a jinx or curse. Use during uncrossing spells to help put up an extra barrier between you and the person you are trying to break free from.

Jezebel root – Jezebel Root is any of five species of Louisiana Iris, including; Iris fulva, Iris hexagona, Iris brevicaulis Iris giganticaerulea, and Iris nelsonii. Originally used by prostitutes to get paying clients, it is more modernly used to get money out of a stingy man. Many exotic dancers carry it on them to increase their tips. Another name for it is Painted Whore.

using lavender in love spells
Lavender is often included in love spells, but it also helps strengthen the bonds between friends

Lavender – Lavender is a flower of friendship and harmony. It’s often included in love spells, but it also helps strengthen the bonds between friends with its calming effects to assist you while sleeping or focusing on something else like scrying. Worn as an amulet against cruelty from spouse and protection against nightmares due to their powerful fragrance helping keep away evil thoughts/dreams, it is associated with the third-eye chakra and used to center the mind.

Lodestone’s magnetic powers draw in the things you desire, such as power, luck, money, and love. Can help to attract and bring into your life the things you want. Also known as a grounding stone.

Lovage – used in glamour and magic of allure, lovage is popular for getting people to notice you. Used not only in spells of attraction, it is also used to make you more attractive to those around you. Also associated with psychic dreaming and purification.

Magnolia leaves – increases love and loyalty and encourages fidelity by placing under your mattress or under the bed. Used to solidify your commitment to each other. Can also be used in a controlling manner to keep a man from performing for no one else but his wife or partner.

Marigold (calendula, aka pot marigold) – marigolds can be added to a magical bath for attraction and confidence, helping you to win over the respect and admiration of everyone you meet. Also used to create a happy, warm, and sunny atmosphere in the home.

Patchouli – considered an aphrodisiac, patchouli is often associated with love and passion in relationships. While some might consider it a masculine scent, it is considered gender-neutral in magic. Also a popular ingredient in money magic.

Queen Elizabeth root – from the rhizome of an iris plant, it is also known as Orris root. Traditionally, a woman would carry the root to attract a man and have him fall madly in love with her. Good for matters of communication and helps to promote success and popularity.

Raccoon Penis Bone – also known as a love bone, it was an old Southern custom, most often used in Hoodoo, for a man to give one to a woman to show his intentions of love to her. An alternative would be for the man to bury the bone beside or beneath her porch to convince her to love him. Can also be tied underneath a bed to heat up the passion between two people by amplifying sexual pleasure.

Rose – used to induce dreams of one’s future love. The main ingredient used in love spells. For emotions and divinity. To build a long-lasting relationship.

Tonka bean – associated with the planet Venus, carry a tonka bean with you to attract love and romance. Some choose to carry 3, 5, or 7 beans corresponding to how many days they wish to draw out their attraction spell by carrying that many beans in their pocket then placing them under the bed in the evening. (considered toxic to consume in the U.S., also be careful around pets if you plan to place them under the bed)

Verbena – used for drawing in new love and bringing your inner beauty to the surface. Verbena was wildly popular in the Victorian era as an ingredient in perfumes, which led to its association and connection to beauty. On the flip side, it is sometimes used for breaking a curse or as an ingredient in break-up spells.

Violet leaf – when it comes to love work, violet leaf is used to heal a broken heart. Many use it for peace, creativity, and for attracting prophetic dreams. In love, it could be focused on having your dream about your future partner.

violet flowers and leaves for love

There are a wide variety of ingredients used for love spells not mentioned here, all used for a broad range of conditions that deal with love: passion, fidelity, marriage, pure lust, fertility, and attraction. The 25 we showcased above should give you a running start on casting that spell to bring you lasting love and romance.

For spells to use these ingredients in, try the book Casting Love Spells – Rituals of Love, Passion, and Attraction.