Animals in Dreams and Their Meanings

Animals in Dreams and Their Meanings

Animals in dreams can be extremely helpful in gaining insight into ourselves - into our psyche. Animal dreams deal with strong emotion and are usually indicative of "prime root" issues in our lives.
Animals in dreams signify our basic instincts, our deepest emotions. They appeal to our deepest desire to be wild and free.  When investigating our animals in dreams, it is important to recall as many aspects of the dream as possible

 Here are some things to keep in mind as you consider your animals in dreams:
Is this a wild animal or tame?
Is the animal neglected or healthy?
What is the environment of the animal?
Are you interacting with the animal, or viewing from a distance?
From which of the four directions does the animal come?
How is the animal moving? Away from you or towards you? Fast or slow?

All of these factors play a part in determining the meaning of your dream animal.
Animals in dreams are strong communicators. When they make the effort to surface in our dreams, it is our responsibility to discover what message they are trying to communicate to us. When dream animals come to you, record as much of these dreams as you can remember. Set intentions before sleeping that you will remember your dreams, and also set intentions to receive animal messengers in your dreams. After journaling, set aside some quiet time to contemplate your dream animals. Meditate upon them. They will come, and their messages will be profound.

Below are some common dream animals and their meanings. As always, the ultimate meaning of an animal in your dream depends upon you. By paying attention to certain dream details (like the ones listed above), and taking time to communicate with your dream animal, the meanings will become more personal and clear to you.

Common Animals in Dreams and Their Meanings

Ants: Ants may symbolize that something is "bugging" or irritating you. If they are crawling on your body, this could mean you have unfinished business that you need to tend to. Ants also represent hard work and community. If you are dreaming of an anthill, it indicates you have a strong circle of family and friends who support your endeavors.

Bears: Bears are symbols of calm, stoic strength. Bears also indicate a time of introspection. If you are dreaming of a bear sleeping or hibernating, this is a message to do a little soul searching before you present an idea to the world. If a bear is chasing you, this means you
are avoiding a big issue in your life, and it is time to deal with it. If the bear is standing up, this is a sign you need to defend your beliefs.

Bees: Bees in dreams indicate a buzzing network of communication. They may also point our attention to ideas that are pollinating successfully in our lives.

Cats: Cats in dreams represent feminine power. Cats also deal with esoteric knowledge, and spiritual guardianship. White cats represent heightened spiritual awareness. Black cats signify hidden secrets or hidden powers within the dreamer. Wild cats encourage us to exercise our will power more. Tame cats indicate a place of comfort in our lives.

Dogs: As you might guess, Dogs in dreams deal with friendship and loyalty. Hearing dogs bark in your dream may represent damaging gossip in your life. Being bitten by a dog indicates you may be dealing with a guilty conscience. The dog is also a dream symbol for instinct. Being attacked by a dog may suggest you may be acting too much on impulse - think before you act. If you are being led by a dog in your dream, it suggests you are comfortable with yourself.

Elephants: Animals in dreams such as Elephants come into our dreams it is a message that we are able to deal with any obstacle we are faced with at this time. Dream Elephants represent power, sovereignty, stability, and stead-fastness. If you dream that you are riding an Elephant this suggests you have a tendency to be the leader of the family, and others heavily depend on you. If you dream of Elephants in a circus this suggests you have a cavalier attitude about a situation in your life and you may want to invest more attention to it.

Frog: Animals in dreams such as Frogs represent blessings, love, and prosperity. If you dream of holding a frog in your hands, it suggests you fondest wish shall come true. Dream Frogs also symbolize spiritual and emotional transformation. If you hear Frogs croaking in your dreams, it is a call to learn more about spiritual matters. If the Frog in your dreams is in the water, this suggests you are going through some emotional turmoil but you have the ability to see your way out of it.

Hawks: Dream Hawks represent our yearning for freedom. If your dream Hawk is flying in the air, it suggests your plans are ambitious and you need the courage to see your vision to the end. If your Hawk is in a cage or trapped, you may be feeling like you are not allowed to express yourself at this time or you are caught in a restricting relationship. The Dream Hawk is a message to use your intellectual power to obtain the freedom you desire in life.

Lizards: Dream Lizards come to us with a message to be cautious in our dealings with others. Lizards also encourage us to remain grounded in tense situations. If the Lizard is running away from you in your dreams, this could mean that you are afraid of some issues in your life - back off, and re-evaluate the situation. If the Lizard bites you this is a message for you to put a hold on any plans you might be making. If your dream Lizard is in a tree, this is a good sign, and plans should be carried out.

Peacocks: Peacocks in dreams represent confidence and ego. Sometimes the appearance of the Peacock may be a message that we are being overconfident, and should perhaps humble ourselves a bit. If the Peacock is making noises in your dream, this indicates you are trying too hard to impress people. If the Peacock's feathers are all fanned out, this is a message that an invitation to a new project is on its way to you.

Serpents: Serpents in dreams represent psychic energy. When you dream of the Serpent, it is a message for you to awaken your unconscious energies that influence your feelings, urges, and instincts. By bringing these energies up to the surface, you will further shape your personality and destiny. If the Serpent bites you in your dream, don't be too trusting with new people you meet. If your dream Serpent is shedding its skin, this indicates you are feeling limited, or have outgrown your present condition.


Credit: Robin Baker

Dedication and Initiation into Wicca

Dedication into Wicca:

The words dedication and initiation have different meanings. When you dedicate an object, you set it aside for a sacred or special use. When you dedicate yourself, you promise yourself to a specific deity or religious path. An initiate is one who studies in a particular field, such as Wicca and/or magic, in order to be initiated, or formally admitted to the group teaching the field of knowledge.

Some Wiccan groups perform dedication ceremonies for everyone who begins study with them, while others do not. Apprentices usually don’t participate in group rituals after a dedication. Apprentices are not admitted to circle work until after they have completed their studies to the satisfaction of the teacher and are initiated before the entire group. All groups have formal initiations for the admittance of accepted apprentices to their inner group work. Initiation is a very serious step in Wiccan development. It is a very moving, internal process. On rare occasions, someone may experience an initiation in a dream or vision.

A dedication, whether done by the self or by a group, is only a promise by the apprentice to study the Wiccan path and follow the Ancient Ones. Usually a year and a day is spent studying all phases of Wiccan beliefs, ethics, and ritual practices before undergoing any initiation. If the student desires to become more deeply involved during this time, they should focus on positive candle spells as a way of gaining magical experience and confidence. Also, learning a divination skill can be beneficial. All these studies, combined with the basics of Witchcraft, will prepare the student for solitary or group ritual work…. which you should be ready by now.

Anyone who wants to study with a Wiccan group should be very cautious and ask penetrating questions before becoming involved with the group to determine the moral and ethical qualities of the group.
If you are very certain that Wicca is the spiritual path for you it is time to perform a dedication. This short rite is an important step, as it formally announces to the Goddess and the God that you promise to learn all you can about their ancient worship in preparation for the more serious rite of initiation or self-initiation. It is also a very serious step to take, so think long and hard before you commit yourself. The dedication is a vow and a vow is something that you do not make or break lightly.

If you are ready to dedicate yourself to Wicca, you will need the following items: a small bowl of water; a pinch of salt in a small sauce; a white candle; an incense burner and a cone or stick of frankincense or lotus incense; a flat space to use as an altar. Clean your temporary altar thoroughly before you place your needed items on it. Place the altar so that you face the east when standing before it. Put the white candle in a holder in the center of the altar with the incense to one side. The water and salt should be placed within easy reach on the altar, but not directly in front of you. This will keep you from accidentally spilling the salt or water. During the time you are setting up the altar, think about what you are doing and why you are doing it.
Place your copy of the dedication ceremony, either written or typed, before the candle. You can use the one here, if you wish.

When you are ready to begin, light the candle and incense. Remove all your clothing. This symbolizes your intent to come before the ancient deities as your true self, shorn of material trappings and open for examination of your heart and conscience. Turn off the light, leaving only the candle for illumination.
Kneel before the altar while you relax and prepare yourself for the dedication. Take several deep breaths to help with the relaxation. When you feel ready, stand facing the altar and the east. Raise your arms, and say:

This is a time that is not a time, in a place that is not a place, on a day that is not a day. I stand at the threshold between the worlds, before the Veil of the Mysteries. I ask that the Lord and the Lady be with me as I take my first steps on the ancient path.
Hold your hands above the bowl of water saying:
Bless this symbol of the great womb of the Goddess. May it be my source of inspiration and continuous blessings.
Hold your hands above the salt and say:
Bless this symbol of earth that it may be my strength and protection.
Tip the salt into the water and then gently swirl the bowl. Hold up the bowl over the altar saying:
As this salt and water mingle and bless each other, may my inner and outer bodies be mingled and blessed.
Sprinkle the salt and water mixture lightly in a circle around your altar, beginning and ending in the east, and moving in a clockwise direction. Put the bowl back on the altar. Kneel before the altar and say:
As I have dedicated this sacred circle to the Goddess and the God, so do I dedicate my life to the spiritual path of Wicca. I come here tonight to make my pledge to the Ancient Ones. I promise to dedicate myself to the study of the Wiccan Way for a year and a day, that in time I may be worthy of stepping within the greater sacred circle of worship. I promise to hold the Goddess in reverence as the Great Mother who created everything in the universe. I promise to hold the God in reverence as Her co-creator and consort. Hear my words, for they are true and from my heart.
Sit quietly for a time as you contemplate the step you have taken into your new spiritual life. When ready, stand up and raise your arms, saying;
May I be blessed with peace, protection, and prosperity in my life, both physically and spiritually. May I gain understanding of all that I study. And may I be found worthy to call myself a Witch.
Symbolically cut the circle by waving your hand over it saying;
The circle is open, but unbroken.
Turn on the lights, extinguish the candle, and clear away all that you used on the altar. You are now dedicated apprentice on the Wiccan Path.

Initiation into Wicca:

Initiation is the solemn, formal oath taken upon entering a coven, or for practice as a solitary Witch. People being initiated swear that they will be loyal to Wicca and keep Craft secrets, particularly from any o=who are not members of the coven or Craft.

This secrecy remains important, although we have moved away from the eras of the terrible Inquisition and persecution by the anti-Witch laws. Witches may no longer be burned at the stake in the middle of town, but they can be harassed in court, on the job, and in their private lives. The last thing you want is an orthodox group or church praying for your death or that you will go to “hell” because you talked about your private spiritual methods. Powerful, concentrated, and repeated thought are a form of spell, and can be jest as powerful as a Witch’s spell.

In preparation for initiation, the apprentice decides upon a Craft name to be used only within the magic circle and only known to other friendly Witches. I say friendly Witches because you certainly do not want to share this name with unfriendly one, who might decide you need to be under a binding spell or something similar.
This Craft name allows the initiate, or Witch, to lay aside the physical personal and adopt a magical one whenever they cast a circle and stand within it to do a ritual or spell.

Plan your initiation for the fight of a Full Moon. In preparation for your self-initiation, you should fast for one day, provided you do not have health problems that prevent this. You may drink water or unsweetened juice, but do not eat food or indulge in coffee or sodas. Take any medication that you ordinarily take.
Be certain that you have the necessary ritual items on hand well before you plan to do your initiation. Extra materials you will need are bottle of anointing oil or lotus oil, the Charge written on a piece of paper (not to large), and a flexible small white cord. Always choose a thin, tough, but very flexible and soft cord. Tradition says the cord should be nine feet long. It is best to know the cord ends to keep them from unraveling.

Many covens use colored cords to symbolize what degree each member holds within their group. White is used by all those having a First Degree initiation. Red can be used to signify Second Degree, and black the Third and highest degree. Frequently, Third Degree Witches braid the three colors together into one cord and wear this cord during all rituals. White, red, and black have been Goddess colors for thousands of years.
Just before you plan to do this ceremony, take a ritual bath. You should take your time bathing, so run a tub full of warm water, and sprinkle a little consecrated salt into it. You can also use appropriate Wiccan bath salts available at Pagan shops. While you bathe and soak, think of the solemnity of the upcoming ritual. Prepare yourself mentally, emotionally and spiritually for this important step in your spiritual path. Burn a white candle while bathing; then take the candle with you when you enter the circle for initiation. This candle is placed on the altar beside the Charge you will sign.

If you are to be alone while performing the initiation, you should go to the altar without clothing. If you have others joining you, and particularly if both sexes will be present, you can wear a light robe that
opens in the front. This will allow the sacred oil to be placed on the appropriate spots without embarrassment.

If you are alone, set up the altar yourself after your cleansing bath. Think about each tool you place on the altar and each movement you make within the ritual area.

Remember, when you copy the rituals into your BOS, always write the procedure for the circle casting and cutting in the proper places in each ritual. Then you will have every ritual step available when you do the ritual.

Self-Initiation First Degree Ceremony

Time: Night of the Full Moon
Items Needed: The pentacle, dagger, the white pillar candle, candlesnuffer, the four Element candles, a chalice of water, a container of salt, a small hand bell, incense and a censer, a small cauldron, a small bottle of anointing oil or lotus oil, chalice of wine or juice, the white cord, and the paper or book with this ritual. Have a small white taper candle to use in lighting the Element candles. You will also need a lighter for the charcoal and the altar candle. Have a copy of the Charge ready to sign, with a pen available.
The altar candle and the charcoal block are lit before the ceremony begins. Check to see that everything needed is on the altar, or at least within the ritual area where it can be reached without breaking the boundary once the circle is cast.
Cast your circle.
After the circle is cast, say:
All creatures are born of the Goddess and the God, and are Their children. The Goddess breathes within us the breath of life and a soul of shining light. She is the great and loving Mother of all. Therefore, as Her child, I thank Her for what I have, yet may I also ask Her for what I need.
(Observe silence while you give thanks to the Goddess and the God and ask for what you need)
Raise your arms and say:
Great Goddess, I call upon You by all Your names, known and unknown. Be here within this sacred circle that I might feel Your power and love. Hear my words, all you creatures of this world. The Goddess is the Great Mother of all! I am never alone or abandoned. She hears every secret longing of my heart, sees every step I take along my life’s path. She is everywhere, in everything. Nothing and no one exists without Her.
The Goddess is the beauty of this earth and everything upon it. She reflects Herself in the glowing moon, the brilliant sun, and every star in the heavens. Nothing is born without Her plan and power, and all things return to Her at the end of their life cycle. Although the Goddess is the gatherer Crone, She is also the Maiden of desire. All acts of love and joy and pleasure are rituals in Her eyes.
I cast my circle at each Full Moon in accordance with Her ancient worship that I may honor Her and ask for what I need. I follow Her words that say I must value my freedom and strive for the
highest of ideals, without being hindered or turned aside. For if I do not learn to value myself, others may lead me into slavery.
The Goddess is the gateway to the ancient Inner Mysteries. Her secret teachings lead me through the spiritual labyrinth to the Sacred Center. All who seek Her must understand Her ancient words. All you’re seeing and yearning will avail you nothing, unless you know the Mystery: For if what you seek you find not within, you will never find without... For behold, the Goddess has been with us from the beginning and She will gather us to Her breast at the end of all things.
Stand before the altar for a few moments of silence. Say:
I come before this altar that I might worship the Lady and the Lord. I have the courage to stand at the threshold between this world and the Otherworld. I vow to hold true to the Old Ways.
Loop the white cord loosely around your hands. Say:
This binding symbolizes my state within the presence of the Goddess. I am neither bond nor free. My heart is bound to Her tighter than my knot, yet I am free of absolute control. I give perfect love and perfect trust to the Goddess and the God.
Unwind the cord and place it on the altar. Take up the paper with the Charge written on it and read it aloud.
I solemnly promise never to reveal to anyone the secrets of the Craft, unless that person has qualified to become a Witch in thought, word, deed, and true desire. I will never divulge the names of other Witches, where they live and work, or where they meet, unless they agree. I will not teach the Wiccan religion or magical secrets to anyone under the legal age of adulthood. I will not actively recruit any to the religion of Wicca. I promise to honor and follow the Goddess and the God to the best of my ability, never leaving the sacred path or repenting of my decision. I will work and study to master the art of magic, using that art for good and for protection, not for evil or self-aggrandizement.
If I break this vow, I understand that I will suffer the fate I have made for myself, according to the laws of karma.
The initiate kneels and places one hand on the pentacle that is on the altar.
Say:
I understand the Charge and swear that I will uphold it at all times. May the Goddess and the God hear my words.
The initiate signs the Charge pledge, lights the paper with the altar candle, and then burns it in the caldron, saying:
As this smoke rises above this sacred circle, it carries my promise to the Goddess and the God. These words can never be revoked or erased. By the power of earth and sea, this is my will. So mote it be.
Take the bottle of anointing oil. Put a drop on the index finger of your power hand. Mark and X in the center of your forehead and say:
Let my mind be free.
Mark an X in the center of your chest over the heart and say:
Let my heart be free.
Mark an X on the lower belly and say:
Let my body be free.
Stand before the altar and say:
I take the name of ______(Your Craft name). I am a standing stone in the ancient circle of the Goddess. I am firm upon the earth, yet open to the winds of heaven and enduring through all time. I give my oath, keep troth!
Take the white cord from the altar and wrap it around your waist, but do not tie it in a knot.
Set the chalice of wine on the pentacle. Take the dagger and gently touch the tip to the wine/juice, saying:
As this athame is the male, so this cup is the female, and joined they bring blessings.
Raise the chalice high over the altar and say:
To the Old Ones! Merry meet and merry part and merry meet again! Blessed Be!
Drink for the cup, leaving a little for the nature spirits.
Close the circle.
The ritual is ended.


Credit: Robin Baker

Words & Terms

In order to truly become a Witch, you must make a commitment to study and practice. You need to know all you can about this religion, if you hope to gain spiritually. You must learn and understand what you learn. Wicca is first and foremost a spiritual path, so consider carefully before you begin. As for magic, if you dabble in magic without a proper foundation, you are apt to get your fingers burned, and not know why.

It may help you to have a special notebook in which you record the lessons and your thought. Writing things down not only helps clarify your thinking, but helps you discover, and uncover, your inner-most feelings.
It is best for beginners or apprentices in Wicca to make themselves familiar with the following words.

These are words that are known and used in the Wiccan, Pagan, and magical communities.

Adept: a person who is very skilled in some form of magic.

Alphabets, magical: special alphabets used in the writing of some magical spells, they also are used to write secret words and names on tools. Originally, all alphabets were sacred and used for magic.

Apprentice: a beginner in Wicca. The words neophyte, novice and postulant are also used, although these are more reminiscent of orthodox religious orders.

Athame: the traditional black-hilted, double-edged knife used by Witches during rituals and in magic. It is not used to kill or cut anything.

Banish: to cast something out by magic, usually negative spirits, entities, or energies. The word is also used when referring to cutting the astral ritual circle. Some Wiccan groups use the word banish in reference to expelling a member.

Besom: an old word for a broom. This special broom is used to symbolically sweep the circle clean before a ritual.

Bind: the use of magic to restrict the power and movement of people, entities, and energies. This is primarily used by Witches when they are attacked.

Bolline: a white-handled knife with curved blade; primarily used to cut herbs, usually resembles a small hand sickle.

Book of Shadows: the traditional name for the book in which a Witch keeps her rituals, spells, and any other information she has learned. Although some Witches believe this can only be black, bound book, others choose notebooks in colorful designs.

Cakes and Wine/Cakes and Ale; a phrase used by Gerald Gardner to describe that wine/ale/juice and cakes/cookies/bread used by some Wiccan groups during ritual.

Call; a series of words or sounds that are used to invoke, or call, deities.

Cauldron; the cast iron kettle used by Witches for burning request papers, holding lighted candles, brewing up herbal potions for healing or magic, or as a symbol of the womb of the Great Goddess.

Chanting; verbally repeating words or verses to build up power within a magic circle. This accumulated power is released as part of spellworking.

Charge of the Goddess: a message from the Goddess to Her followers, this appears in Aradia: Gospel of Witches. Gerald Gardner wrote a version, including much material by Aleister Crowley. Doreen Valiente wrote a later version, deleting the Crowley material. The Valiente version has since been adopted by most Wiccan groups and is frequently rewritten It is also known simply as The Charge Circle; a symbol of eternity

Cleansing; removing all negative energies or entities from an object, person, or place.

Cone of Power: the magical, psychic energy that is raised and contained within a consecrated circle. Psychically seen, the power emanates from the edge of the circle and rises to a peak high above. At its height, this power is released to manifest a desired result.

Consecration the purification and blessing of an object, person or place

Coven; a group of Witches who work together regularly. Some believe a coven must have thirteen members or less, but never less than three. The word coven was first used in sixteenth-century Scotland.

Covenstead; the place where Witches regularly meet.

Craft name; the new, magical name taken by a Witch at initiation. This name is kept secret from all except those with whom the Witch works.

Dancing; a practice of some Wiccan groups to raise power and create a state of semi-hypnosis. Spiral dances symbolize entering the Inner Mysteries, while the circle or round dance represents the circling stars in the heavens.

Days of Power; generally speaking, these can be the holy days or New or Full Moon. Other days can be powerful for Witches because of eclipses, astrological alignments or personal days of significance.

Dedication; the oath made by Wiccan initiates that promise their life and self to the Wiccan religion.

Degrees; in traditional Wiccan groups, there are three degrees of initiation, earned by study and practice.
The last, called the Third Degree, makes one a High Priestess or High Priest.

Deosil; to move in a clockwise or sunwise direction. Old spellings are deiseal and deasail.

Drawing Down the Moon; a Full Moon ritual, usually performed by a priestess or female Witch, to bring the essence of the Goddess within the woman.

Earth Magic; magic performed with natural objects found in or on the earth. Also magic that uses power drawn from the earth.

Elder; the title bestowed upon an older, knowledgeable member of some Wiccan groups. In traditional Wiccan groups, an elder is generally a Third Degree Witch.

Elementals; non-corporeal beings and creatures who inhibit the astral plane and are conned with the

Elements. The most commonly known traditional Elementals are gnomes, undines, sylphs, and salamanders.

Elements; psychic energies connected with Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit.

Esbat; the Full and New Moon rituals of Witches.

Evocation; the calling of a lower order of spirits into a triangle made outside the consecrated circle.
God, The; the consort of and co-creator with the Goddess; the masculine aspect of Divine Power.
Goddess, The; the creatrix of the universe and everything in it; the feminine aspect of Divine Power.
Great Rite; a symbolic sexual ritual of the Great Marriage between the Goddess and the God, High Priestess and High Priest. This is rarely physically enacted.

Guardians; the psychic an astral entities who are called to guard the four quarters of a consecrated circle. It may also be used when referring to the spiritual guardians of a person.

High Priest; the principal male leader of a coven. Second and Third Degree male Witches may also be priests, although they do not lead the coven.

High Priestess; the principal female leader of a coven. Second and Third Degree female Witches may also be priestesses, although they do not lead that coven.

Holy days; Pagan holidays. These eight days are Imbolc (February), Spring Equinox (March), Beltane (May, Summer Solstice (June), Lughnasadh (August), Autumn Equinox (September), Samhain (October), and Winter Solstice (December)

Initiation; the formal ceremony performed when someone joins a Wiccan group, Self-initiations can be performed by solitary Witches, as an inner sign of total dedication to the Wiccan religion.
Invocation; the part of a ritual in which higher power and/or deities are invited into a consecrated circle.

Karma; the law of cause and effect.

Knots; part of binding and releasing spells

Lady, The; the Goddess

Lord, The; the God

Magic; the drawing down of energy from another realm and using that energy to create and shape a desired result. The Witch must create the result on the Inner Planes in order for it to follow universal laws and manifest on the physical plane. The results are rarely instantaneous.

Magic circle; a circular space consecrated by a Witch or magical group, in which rituals and magic are performed.

Magus; a title sometimes applied to Witches of the Second or Third Degree. It is more frequently used to denote an adept of ceremonial magic.

Moon, Full; the phase of the Moon in which all of its light is revealed. The period leading up to it is called the Waxing Moon. Witches frequently meet on a Full Moon for rituals and to use this power for magic.

Moon, New; the phase of the Moon when all of its light is obscured. The period leading up to it is called the Waning Moon. Some Witches hold rituals during this time and do magic to eliminate illnesses or life problems.

Pantheon; traditional groups of deities. Each pantheon is connected with an ancient culture and tradition.

Pentacle; a disk or plate of metal, ceramic, or wood on which is engraved or painted a five-pointed star; this is placed on a Witch’s altar. It is representative of the Earth Element.

Pentagram; a five-pointed star with one point upright. A symbol long used in connection with the Goddess. It is rarely used inverted by Pagans or Witches, and then only as a sign of Second Degree Witch initiation.

Polytheism; the belief in more than one deity.

Priest; a man dedicated to a certain deity or deities, who officiates at Wiccan and/or Pagan rituals.

Priestess; a woman dedicated to a certain deity or deities, who officiates at Wiccan and/or Pagan rituals.

Rites of passage; rituals and celebrations done for birth, death, marriage, divorce, puberty, and entering elderhood.

Ritual; any routinely repeated action. In spiritual areas, ritual means to enact a certain set of actions in order to achieve a transformation of consciousness.

Sabbat; the eight holy days sacred to Wiccans. Witches call Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh, and Samhain the
Greater Sabbats, and the Solstices and Equinoxes the Lesser Sabbats.

Skyclad; nude or naked during ritual. A practice most often found in groups that follow the Gardnerian and Alexandrian traditions.

Solitary; Witches who practice by themselves and do not belong to a group.

Spell; certain actions and words that make magic.

Threefold Law; an ethic more than a law, this is connected with karma. It is said that whatever you send out by deed or directed thought will return to you in triple strength. However ethically appropriate this “law” is, it was likely a creation of Gardner.

Watchtowers; a term sometimes used to describe the four directions in a magical circle.

Wiccan Rede, The; the oft-quoted phrase “Do what you will if it harm none.” This phrase doesn’t appear until Gardner’s time and may have been invented by him.

Wiccaning; similar to a christening, but is a ritual for Wiccan children when they are formally presented to the Lord and the Lady.

Widdershins; counterclockwise, or against the sun, movement. It is derived from the High German word

Widersinnes. The Gaelic version is Tuathal.

Witch balls; the name applied to reflecting glass balls that are hung in windows to send back negative vibrations. The Victorians used such reflecting spheres in gardens.

Witch Queen; in the more traditional covens, this describes a High Priestess who has had at least two new covens hive off of hers.

Witch’s hat; the traditional black hat has a tall, cone-shaped crown with a wide brim. This image of the Witch arose during the Burning Times, along with the black dress and cape, warts, and ugly features.

Witchcraft; also called Wicca and the Craft. The Old English word meant ‘wise-craft’. A nature religion that honors the Great Goddess and Her consort.

Witching hour; traditionally, this is midnight.

Credit: Robin S Baker

November: The Beaver Moon

November: The Beaver Moon
At this time of year the beavers are busy preparing for winter, and it's time to set beaver traps and secure a store of warm fur before the swamps freeze over. Some tribes called this the Frosty Moon.

Correspondence:

Nature Spirits: Subterranean Faeries

Herbs: Grains of Paradise, Verbena, Betony, Borage, and Blessed Thistle

Colours: Sea Green and Gray

Flowers: Blooming Cacti, and Chrysanthemum

Scents: Cedar, Cherry Blossoms, Hyacinth, Peppermint and Lemon

Gemstones: Topaz, Hyacinth, Lapis and Lazuli

Trees: Alder and Cypress

Animals: Crocodile, Jackal, Unicorn and Scorpion.

Birds: Owl, Goose and Sparrow

Deities: Kali, Black Isis, Nicnevin, Hecate, Bast, Osiris, Sarasvati, Lakshmi, Skadi, and Mawu

Magickal Workings:  A time to strengthen the communication between yourself and the divine.

A time to take root and transformation also a time to take root.


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How to Find Your Totem Animal

How to Find Your Totem Animal

Totem animals, or animal guides, have been a part of cultures all over the world for thousands of years. If you feel drawn to form a bond with an animal spirit, there are many ways you can open yourself up to a contact.
An Animal Totem is an important symbolic object used by a person to get in touch with specific qualities found within an animal which the person needs, connects with, or feels a deep affinity toward.
You can have several animal guides throughout your life. Sometimes an animal guide will come into your life for a short period of time, and then be replaced by another depending on the journey or direction you are headed toward. Your guide will instruct and protect you as you learn how to navigate through your spiritual and physical life. When you find an animal that speaks strongly to you or feel you must draw more deeply into your life, you might fill your environment with images of the animal to let the animal know its welcome in your space. Animal guides can help you get back to your Earthly roots, and reconnect with nature by reminding you that we are all interconnected. To first do this you need to know what your Animal Totem is. If you don't know what your Animal Totem is there are several questions you can ask yourself. All of the questions below are designed to get you thinking about a prominent animal in your life. There is no right or wrong answers. Only you can truly know which Animal Totem(s) are right for your journey.

•  Since we are drawn to that which resonates with us, what animal, bird, or insect are you drawn to? 
• When you go to the park, forest, or zoo what animal are you most interested in seeing?
• What animal do you most frequently see when you're out in nature or in the city?
• What animals are you currently interested in learning about?
• Which animal do you find most frightening or intriguing?
• Have you ever been bitten or attacked by an animal?
• Is there a recurring animal in your dreams or do you have one you 
• have never forgotten?

If you are still uncertain which animal is your totem, here a few exercises you can do to come closer to the answer. You must not try to force the animal to come; it can pick up on that energy and be put off. Being patient and doing the following exercises will draw your animal totem to you.
Ask yourself what animal has played a meaningful part in your world? If you're unsure, make a list of animals that have drawn your interest or have left a deep impression on you from paintings, photographs, stories, movies, carvings, etc.

Which animal shows up in your life most frequently? Keep a journal of the animals present in your dreams or that you encounter through the day for the next month. How did the animal behave? Did you interact with the animal?
Find a place where you can be alone to meditate. Sit quietly and ask your animal to make its nature known to you. Feel free to use tools such as incense, smudge, and candles to help you.

Don't give up; sometimes your animal totem is nearby watching to see if you're serious about connecting with it. Keep doing the above exercises until your animal totem makes itself known to you.
A totem can be the symbol of a tribe, clan, family or individual. Native American tradition provides that each individual is connected with nine different animals that will accompany each person through life, acting as guides. Different animal guides come in and out of our lives depending on the direction that we are headed and the tasks that need to be completed along our journey.

Native beliefs further explain that a totem animal is one that is with you for life, both in the physical and spiritual world. Though people may identify with different animal guides throughout their lifetimes, it is this one totem animal that acts as the main guardian spirit. With this one animal a connection is shared, either through interest in the animal, characteristics, dreams, or other interaction. This Animal Guide offers power and wisdom to the individual when they "communicate” with it, conveying their respect and trust. This does not necessarily mean that you actually pet or spend time with this animal, more that you are open to learning its lessons.
For some, knowing what is their totem animal is almost an innate process. It’s as if they've always known, inexplicably drawn to the animal or having a special feeling for the animal’s energy. For others, they wonder how to tell what their animal totem is.

Here are instructions to find your animal totem or spirit guide:
1. Ask yourself why you want to do this. The answer may give you some direction. You may be looking for guidance from an animal known for a certain quality. For example, if you're fearful, you might need assistance from an animal known for its courage.
2. Use your dreams. Before you go to sleep, tell yourself that your animal spirit will contact you in your dreams. Keep a pencil and paper by the bed so you can write down any dreams as soon as you wake up. This may take a week or two, but it should work.
3. Use guided meditation in which you see yourself in a quiet setting waiting for your animal to come to you. See and feel the place, make it as real as possible in your mind. Invite the animal to approach and ask it to show itself to you.
4. Consult with a psychic or shamanic practitioner. They may be able to connect with your animal guide and teach you how to communicate with it.
5. Use your everyday life. Ask your animal guide to show itself to you, and then stay aware. You may find yourself constantly running into commercials with eagles or beavers in them, or you may see an animal in an unexpected place. Frequently, this animal will initiate eye contact with you.

Tips & Warnings
Remember that you can have more than one guide. They may be there for different purposes or even working as a team.
You can call on any animal that you feel can help you; it is up to them to provide the kind of assistance they think best.
Remember to trust your instinct. If your first thought is "fox," then go with it. Don't judge your choice, just explore it. Your own instinct is the most important tool you have in this search.
Here are two guided meditations that may help you find your Animal Totem.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zav4wruv3gw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAl9v2w342c

Animal Totems: Four Directions

The four directions are examined here within the context of the animal totems. Each direction has its own special characteristic and meaning. When the animals are seen coming from or going to a particular direction, the depth of meaning can be enhanced. This is another way to tune into the subtle language of animals. Intuitions and general knowledge should help you in discerning this unique relationship.

North

Lessons of Using Your Potential 

Magic: Manifestation

Element: Earth

Associated with the nobility of manifesting things from the true essence within you. Earth is symbolic of wisdom, patience, prosperity. Grounding aspects of mind, body, spirit. What you gain in knowledge and teachings now, will be used later. What seemed impossible will be enlightened with a new idea and thought. Listen to your intuitions and trust that will be transformed in accordance with your true inner pathway.

balance

teaching

abundance

knowledge

sacred wisdom

empathic intuition

inner treasures

thankfulness

drawing forth

gentleness

alchemy

trust

East

Lesson of Responsible Relationships

Magic: Higher Vision and Prophecy

Element: Air

Spiritual vision opens up, creativity, inspiration, higher awareness, higher intuitions, self-mastery through the use of will. Air links the Earth and Heavens which allows the ability to walk between the spiritual and physical worlds using dreams and visions. Be open to any revelations you have for they will give guidance. It is time for spiritual renewal, sometimes easy, sometimes painful, but always welcome for we need to grow within and without.

Quests

Visions

Dreams

Imagination

Inner Spiritual Renewal

Higher Compassion

Journeys

Emotions

Goals

South

Lesson of Life, Death and Rebirth

Magic: Creation

Element: Fire

Opportunities to change and manifest a new thought, idea or action. Fire is the element of heart, passions and love that help us regenerate our lives. Change must be met with strength and endurance - knowing you will move through this stage and awaken new, fresh and purified. All of life is a cycle; there are only transition periods that we must maneuver through. During such changes, we learn, grow and expand our self-awareness.

Trust

Strength

Change

Playfulness

Self Sufficiency

Awakening the Inner Child

Overcoming Obstacles

Resurrection

Purification

Protection

Faith

West

Lesson of Adaptation

Magic: Shape shifting

Element: Water

Physical and behavioral adaptations to the environment in order to survive. Water will always take the path of less resistance. Utilizing your energy to the fullest in whatever life requires is a hallmark of a true shape shifter. Being able to adapt according to need in all areas of your life. This requires a shifting in consciousness to flow like water over a given circumstance. The animals have no qualms with changing, it does this without hesitation.

Healing

Intuition

Creativity

Illumination

Strength of Will

Communication

New Learning

Divination

Creativity

Exercise:  Start a journal of the animals present in your dreams or that you encounter through the day for the next month. How did the animal behave? Did you interact with the animal?

Credit: Robin Baker

The Sabbat of Samhain

Samhain

October 31st – Nov 1st
Greater Sabbat

God and Goddess:
At Samhain, the Goddess and he will be reborn at Yule. The God is the Horned One, the stag of great antlers, the god of the wild hunt. He is the animal that dies so that we may eat, and the grains and corn that once lived in the field before our harvest. He now takes his place in the underworld and prepares for his rebirth. The Goddess has entered her crone aspect. She is the Old One, the earth mother, the wise one we turn to when we need advice. She teaches us that sometimes we must let go in order to move on. 

General:
In Wicca, Samhain is the third harvest and one of the major and favorites of the eight sacred holidays celebrated by its practitioners. This festival is considered to be the most important of them all and is often celebrated on the thirty-first of October in the northern hemisphere or on April the thirtieth in the southern hemisphere. 

Wiccans honor their dead ancestors on this night believing that a black veil that separates the realm of the living and the realm of the dead has thinned, and thus communication with the dearly departed is at its easiest and that departed may enter the realm of the living for the night to pass on messages to the living. It is also a time when Wiccans believe that the earth is grieving the departure of the God who is going into slumber. Divination is heavily practiced on this day especially with the use of spirit boards, scrying tools and runes.

In History: 
Samhain (pronounced “SOW-in” in Ireland, “SOW-een” in Wales, “SAV-en in Scotland, and “SAM-haine” in non-Gaelic speaking countries) meaning Summer’s End.

Samhain is the last of the old Gaelic and Brythonic harvest festivals and the second oldest European unbroken 6, 000 year old holiday celebrating the ending of the waxing half of the year (spring and summer months) and preparing for the waning half of the year (autumn and winter months) with some aspects of the Festival of the Dead tradition that is found in many cultures and religions including Christianity.

With the coming of Christianity in the 800s AD, the early Church in England tried to Christianize the old Celtic festivals. Pope Boniface IV designated the 1st of November as "All Saints Day," honoring saints and martyrs. He also decreed October 31 as "All Hallows Eve” that eventually became Hallow'een.

Scholars today widely accept that the Pope was attempting to replace the earlier Celtic pagan festival with a church-sanctioned holiday. As this Christian holiday spread, the name evolved as well. Also called All-hallows Eve or All-hallowmas (from Middle English Alholowmesse meaning All Saints' Day). 200 years later, in 1000 AD, the church made November 2 All Souls' Day, a day to honor the dead. It is celebrated similarly to Samhain, with big bonfires, parades, and dressing up in costumes as saints, angels, and devils. Together, the three celebrations, the eve of All Saints', All Saints', and All Souls ‘Day, are called Hallowmas.

Samhain is held on the first of November each year in the northern hemisphere according to various sources, and it was on this date that the old Irish royals would come together in Tara to hold a festival in honor of summers ending. Another date that Samhain may be celebrated is on the actual cross-quarter day when the Sun is in 15 degrees Scorpio just after Sunset. This timing of the festival is associated with the Scottish ‘Old Hallowmas’.

Samhain became the premier festival celebrated during medieval Ireland running for three consecutive days with great bonfires starting with the lighting of the fires at the Hill of Tara, a sign to the people gathered around to light their own smaller fires announcing that Samhain has started. 

The Romans began to conquer the Celtic territories. By A.D. 43 they had succeeded in claiming the majority of the Celtic lands. They ruled for approximately four hundred years combining or influencing many Celtic traditional celebrations with their own. Two Roman holidays were merged with Samhain.
1. Feralia, a day in late October when the Romans traditionally commemorated the passing of the dead.
2. Pomona's Day of Honoring, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple and the incorporation of this celebration into Samhain probably explains the tradition of "bobbing" for apples that is practiced today on Halloween

Traditions:

Feast of the Dead: This is a dinner held in honor of dead family members. You would cook a meal and set the table for the present participating members, then set empty chairs with plate settings for the spirits of loved ones that may choose to join you. Although the Feast of the Dead forms a major part of most Pagan celebrations on this eve, and at Samhain voluntary communications are expected and hoped for. The departed are never harassed, and their presence is never commanded. The spirits of the dead are, however, ritually invited to attend the Sabbat and to be present within the Circle.

Orange and Black:
The colors of this Sabbat are black and orange. Black represents the time of darkness after the death of the God (who is represented by fire and the sun) during an earlier Sabbat known as Lughnasadh, and the waning of light during the day. Orange represents the awaiting of the dawn during Yule (Dec. 21st to Jan. 1st) when the God is reborn. Black also symbolizes death and magick, while orange was the color of the harvest.

Jack-O-Lanterns:
It is believed this custom originated from the lighting of candles for the dead to follow as they walked the earth. These candles were placed in hallowed out gourds and put on the ground to light the way. Irish and Scottish people began making lanterns by carving scary faces into gourds, turnips or potatoes and placing them into windows or near doors to frighten away the wandering evil spirits. 
In England, large beets were used. Immigrants from these countries brought the tradition to America where they found the pumpkin, a fruit native to America that made the perfect jack o'lanterns.

Tricks & Treats:

"Trick-or-treating" is a modern tradition that probably finds its roots in the early All Souls' Day parades in England. During the festivities, poor citizens would beg for food and families would give them pastries called "soul cakes" in return for their promise to pray for the family's dead relatives. The distribution of soul cakes was encouraged by the church as a way to replace the ancient practice of leaving food and wine for roaming spirits. The practice, which was referred to as "going a-souling" was eventually taken up by children who would visit the houses in their neighborhood and be given ale, food, and money
The 'trick' portion of "Trick or Treat" was an invention of the Christians. The tricks were supposedly caused by the dead who didn't receive a treat of food left for them when they arrived at your door.

Costumes:

During celebrations, the Celts wore costumes, and danced around the bonfire. Many of these dances told stories or played out the cycles of life and death or commemorated the cycle of Wheel of Life. These costumes were adorned for three primary reasons:

The first was to honor the dead who were allowed to rise from the Otherworld. The Celts believed that souls were set free from the land of the dead during the eve of Samhain. Those that had been trapped in the bodies of animals were released by the Lord of the Dead and sent to their new incarnations. The wearing of these costumes signified the release of these souls into the physical world.

The second reason for these traditional costumes was to hide from malevolent spirits to escape their trickery. Not all of these souls were honored and respected. Some were also feared as they would return to the physical world and destroy crops, hide livestock or 'haunt' the living that may have done them wrong.

The final representation was a method to honor the Celtic Gods and Goddesses of the harvest, fields and flocks. Paying homage to the deities who assisted the village or clan through the trials and tribulations of the previous year; and to ask for their favor during the coming year and the harsh winter months that were approaching.

Some suggest, this practice originates from England, when it was believed that ghosts came back to the earthly world on Halloween. People thought that they would encounter ghosts if they left their homes, so to avoid being recognized people would wear masks after dark so that the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits. In addition, these early English people would place bowls of food outside their homes to appease the ghosts and prevent them from attempting to enter or cause harm to their homes. A tradition obviously taken from the ancient Celtic pagans.

Celebration:

The way you observe and honor this holiday is entirely up to you. It can be a grand feast of the dead or elaborate ritual. On the other end of the spectrum, you may simply decorate your house or just your altar and light a candle with some pictures near it of those who died in memory of them and their lives. 

This is a time of reflection, looking over what has been accomplished over the past year and understanding the knowledge, wisdom and skills that have been ‘gifted’ to us as the result of the hard work and sacrifices that had been made in the past year. Rituals should be focused on banishing, sorting out unfinished business, facing the darker side of ourselves and contemplating the changes you want to make for the New Year.

Ritual Ideas:
(“From Mrs. B’s Guide to Household Witchery”)
I have adapted these rituals from Mrs. B. and love them and would like to share them.

Ritual: 5 Minutes Alone
This simple Samhain ritual lets you honor those who came before. If you have a few extra moments, add your favorite form of divination and see what the coming year will bring!
Items Needed:
• Your ancestor altar
• Lighter or matches
• A glass of apple cider
• A small snack, such as gingersnaps or a sliced apple
Cast your Circle.
1. Sit before your ancestor altar and take a few deep breaths. Think about those who have passed on—their struggles and how they’ve affected your life. Think about how blessed you were to have them in your life.
2. When you feel centered and ready, light the candle on your altar and say,
“I light this candle in honor of Samhain and to recognize the changing season. I honor the Lord and Lady and my ancestors and give them thanks. On this night, when their spirits walk among us and magic is in the air, I ask my ancestors for their blessings and ask them to watch over my family and home. So mote it be.”
Sit for a moment or two. Drink your cider and eat your snack, being sure to leave some on your offering plate. 
Open Circle
Let the candle burn for as long as you safely can.

Small Group Ritual 
This ritual is just the right length to do with a friend or two, your partner, or the whole family. Just gather round and share the time together.
Items Needed:
• A candle
• A lighter or matches
• Scraps of paper
• A pen or pencil for each participant
• Your cauldron or other heat-safe container
• Cider and cups
• A plate of cookies
Cast Circle. 
1. Gather everyone, and sit down somewhere comfortable with all of your ritual items. Begin with a simple deep breathing exercise to get everyone centered.
2. When everyone’s ready, light the candle and say,
On this fall night of Samhain, we celebrate the turning wheel. As the seasons change, so goes the cycle of death and rebirth. Tonight we mark the death of the old year and the birth of the new. We make these pledges to ourselves and to the Lord and Lady.
3. At this time, each person should write down any resolutions that they’d like to make for the new year or any plans for new beginnings that they’d like to put into motion.
4. Go around the circle, and one at a time each participant can choose whether to share what they’ve written out loud. The paper is then lit on the flame of the candle (younger participants should be assisted by an adult) and placed in the cauldron to burn.
5. When everyone has finished, pass around the cider and cookies and enjoy each other’s company. Everyone should save a sip of the cider and a bit of his or her cookie. When it’s time to finish up, take the cooled ashes outside and bury them in the ground. Leave your food offerings nearby.
Open Circle.

For the Kids
There are usually more than enough Halloween activities going on in October for the kids. But how do you get them to understand what Samhain is really about? Create something fun to draw their attention while you count down the days!
Grab some orange construction paper and cut out thirty-one pumpkin shapes; number them 1 to 31 on one side. On the other side, write a short fact about Samhain, or paste on a picture of a loved one who’s passed or share a fun fact about that person. If you like, staple or tape a small treat to each pumpkin, such as a piece of candy, a coin, a small Halloween eraser, or something like that. Starting on October 1, find a place to stash the pumpkin where you know your child will find it. Pack it in their school lunch, stick it in their sock drawer, or prop it up by their toothbrush. On Halloween morning, tape the last paper pumpkin to a real pumpkin and help them carve a face in it so that it can guard your home that night.

This is my Samhain Ritual

Samhain Correspondences

Element:
Water

Threshold:
Midnight

Herbs:
Allspice, comfrey, dandelion, mugwort, catnip, ferns, flax, mandrake, mullein, dragon’s blood, sage, straw, thistles, oak leaf, wormwood,

Gemstones:
Black stones, jet, obsidian, onyx, carnelian

Incense/Oil:
Frankincense, basil, yarrow, lilac, camphor, clove, wood rose, wormwood, myrrh, patchouli, apple, heliotrope, mint, nutmeg, sage, ylang-ylang.

Colors/Candles:
Black, orange, indigo

Animal/Mythical Beings:
Bats, Cats, Dogs, pooka, goblin, medusa, beansidhe, harpies

Tools/ Symbols/Decorations:
black altar cloth, Halloween items, jack o lanterns, oak leaves, acorns, straw, balefire, brooms, black cat, black crescent moon, cauldron, divination tools, grain, mask, bare branches, animal bones, Hazelwood, pictures of ancestors.

Goddesses:
The crone, Hecate (Greek), Cerridwen (Welsh-Scottish), Arianrhod (welsh), Caillech (Irish – Scottish), Bast (Egyptian), Persephone (Greek), Hel (Norse).

Gods:
Horned hunter, Cernunnos(Celtic), Osiris(Egyptian), hades (Greek), Gwynn ap Nudd (British), Anubis (Egyptian), Coyote Brother (Native American), Loki (Norse), Dis (Roman), Arawn (Welsh).

Essence:
Magick, plenty; knowledge, the night, death &rebirth, success, protection; rest, new beginning, ancestors, lifting the veil, return, change.

Dynamics/ Meaning:
Death and transformation, wiccan new year, wisdom of the crone, end of summer, honoring, thinning of the veil between worlds, death of the year, time outside of time, night of the wild hunt, begin new projects, end old projects

Purpose:
Honoring the dead, especially departed ancestors, knowing we will not be forgotten, clear knowledge of our path, guidance, protection, celebrating reincarnation.

Rituals/Magick:
Foreseeing future, honoring/consulting ancestors, releasing the old, power, understanding death and rebirth, divination, past life regression.

Customs:
Ancestor altar, costumes, divination, carving jack o lanterns, spirit plate, the feast of the dead, feasting, paying debts, fairs, drying winter herbs, masks, bonfires, apple games, tricks, washing clothes.

Foods:
Apple, pumpkin pie, pomegranate, pumpkin, squash, hazelnuts, corn, cranberry muffins, bread, ale, cider and herbal tea.