Spell Craft: Introduction

Many people become interested in witchcraft because they desire to tap into the seemingly limitless power of spell craft. They see what is portrayed in the entertainment industry and believe that such things are possible with their own efforts. Sadly, they mistake stage craft and illusion with reality. They assume that the fantastic things described in fantasy and fiction are the same as what I, and many others, do on a daily basis.

The closest I come to chanting over a bubbling cauldron is saying a blessing over a pot of soup I'm making. In place of mysterious concoctions made from gruesome sounding ingredients, I make normal food and use various herbs for taste, medicinal, or magical purposes. I can not cast lightning from my hands, but I can throw my spiritual energy out into the universe to call rain to me in a few days. I occasionally use a poppet (also known as a voodoo doll) for healing spells. I read tarot cards and other divination tools (it's a hobby of mine.) but I do not get 100% accurate visions of the future.

My spell craft is simple, homey things. It is part of the reason why I call myself a kitchen witch. It is possible to do high ceremonial magic and get successful results. They will not, however, look like what you expect from Hollywood's theatrics. Magic is a subtle art. As my previous discussions may have made clear, the most important aspect of making magic work is force of will and having one's mind aligned properly. The psychological aspect of magic is at the forefront of most spell work.

Herbalism is classed by some folk as a form of spell craft. I believe it has its own distinction because the mechanisms by which is operates are entirely different. Herbalism operates 99% of the time upon the physical body. It can be a component in spell craft, but it will not be the primary method by which one's goal is attained. Spell craft's mechanisms of action are based in one's spiritual energy and the manipulation of the spiritual energy of the universe. This could put prayer as a form of spell craft, though most people are disturbed by such a suggestion.

There are many different techniques and methods of spiritual energy manipulation. They can be classified by the methodology used, purpose, or tools applied. We will be looking at each major division of techniques independently. Following this, I will help you determine if you should write your own spells and walk you through how to do it.