The cauldron of a necromancer... it evokes a certain grim image in
one's mind. I can guarantee you however that whatever you are imagining
is completely wrong. Firstly the vessel in question is small (usually 3
1/4 inches tall, by 3 inches wide), made of cast iron with a lid of the
same material). Secondly none of its uses involve macabre ingredients
such as parts of corpses, innocent blood, dead animal parts, etc.
Thirdly you won't ever see one being used in a graveyard. So how is it
used? Well in number of ways such as shown in the examples I will give.
Well
the most common use is in offering blessings or to ask requests of the
dead. In order to do this the cauldron is partially filled with dried
necromantic herbs. The blend I suggest is a combination of wormwood,
marshmallow (althea), and dandelion root. This will attract benevolent
spirits and will make communication easier. The papers on which the
blessings or requests are written are then laid on-top of the herbs. The
bottom layer is then lit and when everything is consumed the message
has been relayed to the dead. Be sure to use a fire-proof base or you
will likely lose your base of operations.
Another common use for a
cauldron by a necromancer is to hold offerings for chthonic gods and
spirits of the dead. Usually these take the form of liquid libations
such as wine, olive oil, ale, mead, etc. The libations are poured into
the vessel during the course of a ritual of worship. They are
subsequently disposed after a period of time by digging a hole and
emptying the cauldron into it. After this is done the hole is refilled
and the ground smoothed over. The cauldron can also be used to hold food
offerings. In such a case the procedure for disposal is the same.
Divination
by fire is the third most frequent use for a cauldron owned by a Worker
of the Dead. This process is performed by once again filling the
cauldron partially with necromantic herbs or wood shavings from trees of
the dead. These are then lit on fire and the flames are watched closely
for images or shapes. These are then interpreted by the necromancer
according to his/her personal symbol system. If using the smoke from the
fire to divine then the necromancer blows the smoke away from him/her
after asking a question. If the smoke twists clockwise (deasil) the
answer is NO. If it twists counterclockwise then the answer is YES. As
with the message delivery a fire-proof base should be used. Another form
of divination that uses a cauldron is done with olive oil (which is
sacred to the dead) and water. The vessel is filled with warm water and
then the oil is added. The shapes formed are interpreted symbolically.
A
less common use for the cauldron is for the mixing of magical oils. In
necromancy magical oils are used for a variety purposes though they are
generally are less important than other tools. The oils that a
necromancer uses are generally meant for the following purposes:
anointing tools, dressing candles and other objects, and anointing the
body before rituals or spells. Oils are not used by all necromancers
except those who incorporate elements of other magical traditions (such
as hoodoo, ceremonial magic, etc.) into their practice.
Note:
the cauldron can also be be used to hold libations of olive oil, wine,
or other liquid libations meant for the dead or chthonic gods.
Additionally it can be used for holding things such as: bone dust,
consecrated water, graveyard dirt, etc.
That's all for this post!
Slainte!
Monday, 23 December 2013
Sunday, 22 December 2013
The Creation and Use of Ancestor Dolls
The ancestor doll is a type of spirit vessel meant to anchor your
ancestors in this world and allow them to manifest. They are also used
as a portable ancestral altar. Many people find ancestor dolls easier to
manage then a actual altar to deceased family members for a number of
reasons. Firstly since they are dolls they are more covert than a altar
thus allowing one to practice ancestor veneration in areas hostile to
such beliefs. Secondly they don't require the same amount of upkeep as
actual altar. Thirdly it is sometimes easier to talk to a physical
representation of a person than apparently empty air. It is important to
note that ancestor dolls are NOT toys for children. They are meant to
be treated as people. They are talked to, offered food/drink/incense,
taken with you when you travel, introduced to new family members such as
children and spouses, etc. They are also filled with a number of
ingredients that are assuredly dangerous if ingested.
So, how does one make an ancestor doll? The process is fortunately not complicated, and only the following items are needed. These are: clothes belonging to a deceased family member (or white cloth), two patterns (one male, one female), rosemary (for remembrance), althea leaves or root (aka marshmallow, for benevolent spirits), wormwood (calling spirits), dandelion root (communication with the dead), your hair/nail clippings/dead skin/teeth/etc. (anchoring and connection). Balm of Gilead (for spirit manifestation), and graveyard dirt (from a crossroad in a cemetery). Additional requirements are a pair of scissors, needle and thread, and some pieces of paper. These pieces of paper are the most important ingredient in the creation of ancestor dolls. Upon them will be written the names of all ancestors you are aware of in your family tree. Any additional information such as their relation to you, likes and dislikes, favourite foods and drinks should be included if known. It is important that they be separated by gender as both a male and female doll should be made.
To begin, the patterns are pinned to the folded white cloth, making sure that a total of four pieces will be cut out. Once cut the two parts of each doll will be almost completely sewn together, creating an internal cavity. Next the ingredients are placed inside each doll in whatever order you desire. When the dolls are filled the sewing is completed sealing the herbs, dirt, personal concerns, and slips of paper within. The dolls will be left without faces when completed so each can represent multiple generations. They also should not be dressed in clothing with the exception of the dress included in the female pattern. This is to prevent the ancestors from being confused or offended upon finding their vessel strangely dressed. Cloth hair can be included in the designs.
Once the ancestor dolls are completed they should be consecrated in the name of your ancestors and charged with prayer (to the ancestors as well as other spiritual entities depending on your beliefs) and intent. From that point on they should be treated with respect. Don't get them dirty, don't swear in front of them, and don't mistreat them.
That's all for this post. Slainte mhaith!
So, how does one make an ancestor doll? The process is fortunately not complicated, and only the following items are needed. These are: clothes belonging to a deceased family member (or white cloth), two patterns (one male, one female), rosemary (for remembrance), althea leaves or root (aka marshmallow, for benevolent spirits), wormwood (calling spirits), dandelion root (communication with the dead), your hair/nail clippings/dead skin/teeth/etc. (anchoring and connection). Balm of Gilead (for spirit manifestation), and graveyard dirt (from a crossroad in a cemetery). Additional requirements are a pair of scissors, needle and thread, and some pieces of paper. These pieces of paper are the most important ingredient in the creation of ancestor dolls. Upon them will be written the names of all ancestors you are aware of in your family tree. Any additional information such as their relation to you, likes and dislikes, favourite foods and drinks should be included if known. It is important that they be separated by gender as both a male and female doll should be made.
To begin, the patterns are pinned to the folded white cloth, making sure that a total of four pieces will be cut out. Once cut the two parts of each doll will be almost completely sewn together, creating an internal cavity. Next the ingredients are placed inside each doll in whatever order you desire. When the dolls are filled the sewing is completed sealing the herbs, dirt, personal concerns, and slips of paper within. The dolls will be left without faces when completed so each can represent multiple generations. They also should not be dressed in clothing with the exception of the dress included in the female pattern. This is to prevent the ancestors from being confused or offended upon finding their vessel strangely dressed. Cloth hair can be included in the designs.
Once the ancestor dolls are completed they should be consecrated in the name of your ancestors and charged with prayer (to the ancestors as well as other spiritual entities depending on your beliefs) and intent. From that point on they should be treated with respect. Don't get them dirty, don't swear in front of them, and don't mistreat them.
That's all for this post. Slainte mhaith!
Saturday, 21 December 2013
Usage and Properties of Graveyard Dirt
The most important thing one should know about graveyard dirt is that
it is not a herb. Additionally there are no substitutes that will work
properly despite opinions to the contrary. Graveyard dirt MUST be
collected from an actual cemetery, preferably at night. In my personal
opinion the phase of the moon while it is being collected is not of much
importance. However I do acknowledge that dirt collected during a new
moon is likely more powerful than if it was collected at another time.
When collecting dirt for a specific purpose a number of things must be done. First the type of working you are going to use the dirt for must be decided. Next research must be performed to determine whether there is an individual in your local cemetery which possessed the qualities needed for the magic. This can sometimes be done through a search of newspaper archives but most of the time divination is necessary. Once a grave with the required qualities is located permission from its inhabitant must be acquired. Sometimes this can be difficult and another grave must be located. Following this step the dirt must be collected and payment given to the deceased. The traditional payment is usually a dime since those in the United States once had a picture of the god Mercury upon it.
The powers and uses of dirt from specific graves can be determined by the nature of their resident. To demonstrate this I shall give a number of examples. Dirt from the grave of a soldier for instance can be used to induce bravery, strength, quick thinking, or to get an individual to obey you and follow orders. Dirt from the grave of a killer/murderer can be used both to gain revenge and to cause harm. In this instance negotiation with the spirit should be undertaken to prevent the dirt from actually causing death. To heal or cause illness, the dirt from the grave of either a doctor or nurse should be brought to bear. As a final example if one wishes to create romance, create sexual attraction, or induce lust the best variety of dirt to use is from an adolescent.
However for those who feel uncomfortable with taking dirt from an actual grave magical theory provides an alternative. This is simply to use dirt taken from a crossroads within a cemetery. Crossroads are thought in many belief systems to be places of great spiritual power associated with magic, rituals, pagan deities, demons, and the dead. The fact that a crossroads within a cemetery is possesses a double connection with the dead should make it quite powerful in necromantic operations. To use it for a specific type of magic I suggest mixing it with finely powdered herbs chosen specifically for the working.
Methods for using graveyard dirt including the following though there are more. Method number one is to rub it on your hand before you shake hands with someone you want to affect. This method is not recommended for cursing or hexing since it will also affect the necromancer. The second method is to sprinkle it around the property or inside the house of your intended target. The last one that sees common use is the blow powder method whereby a small amount is blown into the face of your quarry.
When collecting dirt for a specific purpose a number of things must be done. First the type of working you are going to use the dirt for must be decided. Next research must be performed to determine whether there is an individual in your local cemetery which possessed the qualities needed for the magic. This can sometimes be done through a search of newspaper archives but most of the time divination is necessary. Once a grave with the required qualities is located permission from its inhabitant must be acquired. Sometimes this can be difficult and another grave must be located. Following this step the dirt must be collected and payment given to the deceased. The traditional payment is usually a dime since those in the United States once had a picture of the god Mercury upon it.
The powers and uses of dirt from specific graves can be determined by the nature of their resident. To demonstrate this I shall give a number of examples. Dirt from the grave of a soldier for instance can be used to induce bravery, strength, quick thinking, or to get an individual to obey you and follow orders. Dirt from the grave of a killer/murderer can be used both to gain revenge and to cause harm. In this instance negotiation with the spirit should be undertaken to prevent the dirt from actually causing death. To heal or cause illness, the dirt from the grave of either a doctor or nurse should be brought to bear. As a final example if one wishes to create romance, create sexual attraction, or induce lust the best variety of dirt to use is from an adolescent.
However for those who feel uncomfortable with taking dirt from an actual grave magical theory provides an alternative. This is simply to use dirt taken from a crossroads within a cemetery. Crossroads are thought in many belief systems to be places of great spiritual power associated with magic, rituals, pagan deities, demons, and the dead. The fact that a crossroads within a cemetery is possesses a double connection with the dead should make it quite powerful in necromantic operations. To use it for a specific type of magic I suggest mixing it with finely powdered herbs chosen specifically for the working.
Methods for using graveyard dirt including the following though there are more. Method number one is to rub it on your hand before you shake hands with someone you want to affect. This method is not recommended for cursing or hexing since it will also affect the necromancer. The second method is to sprinkle it around the property or inside the house of your intended target. The last one that sees common use is the blow powder method whereby a small amount is blown into the face of your quarry.
Celtic Death Spirits
Most people have never heard of the Ankou or the dullahan, which is
not surprising since discussions on folklore are usually limited to
specific circles. The first is a singular spirit of death while the
dullahan is considered to be a species of dark fae. Both beings are
incredibly interesting although not much information concerning them has
survived the passage of time and the growing influence of science.
However despite the adversity facing them it is my opinion that both of
these entities survive in modern times, even if there is a lack of
sightings.
Ankou is the personification of Death and in Breton folklore as well as Cornish and Norman French folklore. There are three theories as to this spirit's origin. The first holds that he is the first-born child of Adam and Eve. The second view asserts that he was once a cruel prince who met Death during a hunting trip and challenged the entity to see who could kill a black stag first. Death won the contest and the prince for his arrogance was cursed to roam the earth for eternity performing Death's job. The third and more widely held view is that the Ankou is the first dead person of the year. In this belief he is charged with collecting the souls of others for the entire year before he can go to the afterlife. This spirit is always depicted as male, usually as a man or skeleton wearing a cloak and hat while wielding a scythe. He is said to drive a large black coach pulled by four black horses and is accompanied by two ghostly figures who travel on foot. Every parish in Brittany is considered to have its own Ankou. Lastly in a year where there has been more deaths than usual people say the following. "War ma fe, heman zo eun Anko drouk." ("on my faith this is a nasty Ankou")
The dullahan on the other hand is a different story, although it is a spirit of death it is also a dark faerie hailing from Ireland. When seen it usually appears as a headless rider on a black horse carrying its head under one arm. The head's eyes are said to be small, black, and constantly darting about like flies. The mouth is set in a horrendous grin that stretches to both sides of its head. The flesh of this gruesome severed object reportedly has the color and firmness of moldy cheese. The dullahan uses the spine of a corpse for a whip and the wagon it pulls is adorned with funeral objects. There are skulls with candles to light its way, wheel spokes made from thigh bones, and a wagon covering made from human skin. When a dullahan stops riding, a person is due to die at that location. The dullahan then calls out their name at which point they perish. There is no way to prevent a dullahan from claiming a victim as all locks, doors, and gates open before them. Dullahan do not like being watched while going about their business and will throw a basin of blood on observers they discover. or striking the watcher's eyes with their whips. This is often a sign that the person will be the next to die. The dullahan however does possess a single weakness, they are deathly afraid of gold. This fear is so great that even a single gold pin can drive them away.
Ankou is the personification of Death and in Breton folklore as well as Cornish and Norman French folklore. There are three theories as to this spirit's origin. The first holds that he is the first-born child of Adam and Eve. The second view asserts that he was once a cruel prince who met Death during a hunting trip and challenged the entity to see who could kill a black stag first. Death won the contest and the prince for his arrogance was cursed to roam the earth for eternity performing Death's job. The third and more widely held view is that the Ankou is the first dead person of the year. In this belief he is charged with collecting the souls of others for the entire year before he can go to the afterlife. This spirit is always depicted as male, usually as a man or skeleton wearing a cloak and hat while wielding a scythe. He is said to drive a large black coach pulled by four black horses and is accompanied by two ghostly figures who travel on foot. Every parish in Brittany is considered to have its own Ankou. Lastly in a year where there has been more deaths than usual people say the following. "War ma fe, heman zo eun Anko drouk." ("on my faith this is a nasty Ankou")
The dullahan on the other hand is a different story, although it is a spirit of death it is also a dark faerie hailing from Ireland. When seen it usually appears as a headless rider on a black horse carrying its head under one arm. The head's eyes are said to be small, black, and constantly darting about like flies. The mouth is set in a horrendous grin that stretches to both sides of its head. The flesh of this gruesome severed object reportedly has the color and firmness of moldy cheese. The dullahan uses the spine of a corpse for a whip and the wagon it pulls is adorned with funeral objects. There are skulls with candles to light its way, wheel spokes made from thigh bones, and a wagon covering made from human skin. When a dullahan stops riding, a person is due to die at that location. The dullahan then calls out their name at which point they perish. There is no way to prevent a dullahan from claiming a victim as all locks, doors, and gates open before them. Dullahan do not like being watched while going about their business and will throw a basin of blood on observers they discover. or striking the watcher's eyes with their whips. This is often a sign that the person will be the next to die. The dullahan however does possess a single weakness, they are deathly afraid of gold. This fear is so great that even a single gold pin can drive them away.
Friday, 20 December 2013
Wands in Necromantic Practice
Proper Length = 21.75 inches or 55.254 centimeters (Calculated using the average of 6 lengths from the following texts: The Avesta, The Grand Grimoire, The Book of Abramelin, Epitome of Supernatural Magic, Les Veritables Clavicules de Salomon, and The Key of Knowledge reference point 73)
Iron Wand: Steel is not an acceptable substitute, it MUST be iron. This wand is used to raise the spirits of the dead from their grave and summon them to your location. It can also be taken into a cemetery, then pointed at a grave while asking a question. The holder of the wand should be able to hear the answer of the spirit soon after. Lastly it can double as a weapon against angry spirits.
Yew Wand: The yew as mentioned in another post is known as the Tree of Death. It also symbolizes immortality/longevity (because it possible may be the longest-lived tree in the world) and rebirth (due to its uncanny ability to regrow from terrible damage). On account of this it can be used in spells of life and healing as well as in death curses. Since it was frequently planted in graveyards, it can also be used to summon the spirits of the dead.
Dogwood Wand: A Christian legend tells that this tree was used to crucify the White Christ and so was cursed to dwindle from its former size. The necessary information concerning this plant's connection to necromancy is hard to find but I was able to locate it. Dogwood can be used in ancestor workings both to draw upon their power and to call them to your aid.
Cypress Wand: Another tree connected with death. It can be used in spells of binding and release, increasing longevity, and for healing grief. Cypress also happens to be one of the sacred trees of the Greek god, Hades. It is likely it that it can be used to draw upon his power.
Willow: The willow is a tree with a connection to death that is overshadowed by its more upbeat aspects. This tree can be used in workings related to burials, summonings, and grief.
Iron Wand: Steel is not an acceptable substitute, it MUST be iron. This wand is used to raise the spirits of the dead from their grave and summon them to your location. It can also be taken into a cemetery, then pointed at a grave while asking a question. The holder of the wand should be able to hear the answer of the spirit soon after. Lastly it can double as a weapon against angry spirits.
Yew Wand: The yew as mentioned in another post is known as the Tree of Death. It also symbolizes immortality/longevity (because it possible may be the longest-lived tree in the world) and rebirth (due to its uncanny ability to regrow from terrible damage). On account of this it can be used in spells of life and healing as well as in death curses. Since it was frequently planted in graveyards, it can also be used to summon the spirits of the dead.
Dogwood Wand: A Christian legend tells that this tree was used to crucify the White Christ and so was cursed to dwindle from its former size. The necessary information concerning this plant's connection to necromancy is hard to find but I was able to locate it. Dogwood can be used in ancestor workings both to draw upon their power and to call them to your aid.
Cypress Wand: Another tree connected with death. It can be used in spells of binding and release, increasing longevity, and for healing grief. Cypress also happens to be one of the sacred trees of the Greek god, Hades. It is likely it that it can be used to draw upon his power.
Willow: The willow is a tree with a connection to death that is overshadowed by its more upbeat aspects. This tree can be used in workings related to burials, summonings, and grief.
Hekate, Lady of the Crossroads
Religion: Ancient Greek
Titles/Epithets: Destroyer, Angry One, Terrible One, Lady of the Underworld, Three-Formed, Three-Bodied, Of the Crossroads, Of the Three-Ways, Of the Wayside, Of Mount Zerynthia, Night Wandering, Tender, Delicate, Nurse of the Young, Leader of the Dogs, Only Begotten Maiden, Bright-Coiffed, Queen of Those Below, Angelos, Queen of Ghosts, Chthonia, Phosphoros, She Who Attends, She That Protects, Saviour ...
Functions: Goddess of Witchcraft, Necromancy, Crossroads, Magic, Sorcery, Herbs, Poisonous Plants, Family, Protection, The Three Realms (Earth, Sky, and Sea), Companion of Persephone, and Titan.
Offerings: Red Wine, Candles, Incense (Myrrh), Honey, Eggs (Raw) , Olive Oil, Garlic, Fish, Leeks
Symbols: Torch, Dark Moon
Sacred Animals: Dogs, Weasel/Polecat, Red Mullet
Sacred Plants: Yew, Garlic, Aconite, Belladonna, Dittany, and Mandrake
Relatives: Perses (Father), Asteria (Mother)
Titles/Epithets: Destroyer, Angry One, Terrible One, Lady of the Underworld, Three-Formed, Three-Bodied, Of the Crossroads, Of the Three-Ways, Of the Wayside, Of Mount Zerynthia, Night Wandering, Tender, Delicate, Nurse of the Young, Leader of the Dogs, Only Begotten Maiden, Bright-Coiffed, Queen of Those Below, Angelos, Queen of Ghosts, Chthonia, Phosphoros, She Who Attends, She That Protects, Saviour ...
Functions: Goddess of Witchcraft, Necromancy, Crossroads, Magic, Sorcery, Herbs, Poisonous Plants, Family, Protection, The Three Realms (Earth, Sky, and Sea), Companion of Persephone, and Titan.
Offerings: Red Wine, Candles, Incense (Myrrh), Honey, Eggs (Raw) , Olive Oil, Garlic, Fish, Leeks
Symbols: Torch, Dark Moon
Sacred Animals: Dogs, Weasel/Polecat, Red Mullet
Sacred Plants: Yew, Garlic, Aconite, Belladonna, Dittany, and Mandrake
Relatives: Perses (Father), Asteria (Mother)
Myths
Coffin Nails: Not Just for Malice
A necromantic tool derived from the system of hoodoo, the coffin nail
is now an extremely rare item. This is due to the fact that it is no
longer needed for making coffins in the American South. The coffin nail
is easily identifiable by its square head and its iron content. Since
not all of us are lucky enough to know an actual blacksmith (Score one
for me), a substitute is available. Simply use old rusted nails, but
make sure your tetanus shot is up to date (or just wear gloves).
So what is a coffin nail used for in necromancy? The answer to put it simply is a lot. The nails can be used to carve sigils/symbols/words/etc. into candles. Their most obvious use is in sympathetic magic, where they are used to pierce or prick a poppet. Other uses include talismanic creation, protection spells, hexing, spirit attraction, contract magic, War Water, and warding houses (ie: "nailing down the house"). The coffin nail is associated with graveyards, the dead, and burial and thus can be used in any related magic. They can also be combined with other things such as herbs, graveyard dirt, etc. in order to increase the potency of a necromantic spell. Lastly they can also be used in thanatic magic if they were exposed to death or a dying individual.
So what is a coffin nail used for in necromancy? The answer to put it simply is a lot. The nails can be used to carve sigils/symbols/words/etc. into candles. Their most obvious use is in sympathetic magic, where they are used to pierce or prick a poppet. Other uses include talismanic creation, protection spells, hexing, spirit attraction, contract magic, War Water, and warding houses (ie: "nailing down the house"). The coffin nail is associated with graveyards, the dead, and burial and thus can be used in any related magic. They can also be combined with other things such as herbs, graveyard dirt, etc. in order to increase the potency of a necromantic spell. Lastly they can also be used in thanatic magic if they were exposed to death or a dying individual.
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