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The Public Contents of the Book of Shadows

[from http://www.oakgrove.org/GreenPages/bos/bos2/Shdwbook.txt ]
_
Subject: The Public Contents of the Book of Shadows

There is really no such thing as the text of the Book of Shadows,
because Gardner never bothered to word things the same way twice;
whenever he copied something, he simultaneously rewrote it.  But this,
of course, is the way that an author treats his own original material;
it is not how anyone treats authoritative texts preserved from an
earlier generation. I have grouped the documents according to the dates
when they were written; these dates are accurate to within a year or so,
and the point to providing them, of course, is to emphasize that these
documents are modern creations, NOT anything preserved from ancient or
medieval tradition.  Material or comments added to these documents later
on I have enclosed in square brackets [these things].

A.1. Casting the Circle (1949)

It is most convenient to mark the circle with chalk, paint or otherwise,
to show where it is; but marks on the carpet may be utilized.  Furniture
may be placed to indicate the bounds.  The only circle that matters is
the one drawn before every ceremony with either a duly consecrated Magic
Sword or an Athame.  The circle is usually nine feet in diameter, unless
made for some very special purpose.  There are two outer circles, each
six inches apart, so the third circle has a diameter of eleven feet.

[1] Having chosen a place proper, take the sickle or scimitar of Art or
a Witch's Athame, if thou mayest obtain it, and stick it into the
center, then take a cord, and 'twere well to use the Cable Tow for this,
and loop it over the Instrument, four and one half feet, and so trace
out the circumference of the circle, which must be traced either with
the Sword, or the knife with the black hilt, or it be of little avail,
but ever leave open a door towards the North.  Make in all 3 circles,
one within the other , and write names of power between these.

[2] First draw circle with Magic Sword or Athame.

[3] Consecrate Salt and Water: Touch water with Athame, saying, "I
exorcise thee, O creature of Water, that thou cast out from Thee all the
impurities and uncleannesses of the Spirits of the World of Phantasm, so
they may harm me not, in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos."

[4] Touching Salt with Athame, say, "The Blessings of Aradia and
Cernunnos be upon this creature of Salt, and let all malignity and
hindrance be cast forth hencefrom, and let all good enter herein, for
without Thee man cannot live, wherefore I bless thee and invoke thee,
that thou mayest aid me."

[5] Then put the Salt into the water.



[6] Sprinkle with exorcised water.

[7] Light candles; say, "I exorcise thee, O Creature of Fire, that every
kind of Phantasm may retire from thee, and be unable to harm or deceive
in any way, in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos."

[8] Caution initiate (if any); warn companions; enter circle and close
doors with 3 pentagrams.

[9] Proclaim object of working

[10] Circumambulate 3 times or more before commencing work.

[11] Summon: "I summon, stir, and Call thee up, thou Mighty Ones of the
East, South, West, and North."  Salute and draw pentacle with Magic
Sword or Athame, the first stroke being from the top down to the left.

A.2. Drawing Down the Moon (1949)

High Priestess stands in front of Altar, assumes Goddess position (arms
crossed). Magus, kneeling in front of her, draws pentacle on her body
with Phallus-headed Wand, invokes, "I Invoke and beseech Thee, O mighty
Mother of all life and fertility.  By seed and root, by stem and bud, by
leaf and flower and fruit, by Life and Love, do I invoke Thee to descend
into the body of thy servant and High Priestess [name]." The Moon having
been drawn down, i.e., link established, Magus and other men give
Fivefold Kiss:

(kissing feet) "Blessed be thy feet, that have brought thee in these
ways";

(kissing knees) "Blessed be thy knees, that shall kneel at the sacred
altar";

(kissing womb) "Blessed be thy womb, without which we would not be";

(kissing breasts) "Blessed be thy breasts, formed in beauty and in
strength";

(kissing lips) "Blessed be thy lips, that shall speak the sacred names."

Women all bow.

If there be an initiation, then at this time the Magus and the High
Priestess in Goddess position (Arms Crossed) says the Charge while the
Initiate stands outside the circle.

A.3. "Lift Up the Veil"

[The Charge] (1949) Magus: "Listen to the words of the Great mother, who
of old was also called among men Artemis, Astarte, Dione, Melusine,
Aphrodite, Cerridwen, Diana, Arianrhod, Bride, and by many other names."


High Priestess: "At mine Altars the youth of Lacedaemon in Sparta made
due sacrifice. Whenever ye have need of anything, once in the month,
and better it be when the moon is full, ye shall assemble in some secret
place and adore the spirit of Me who am Queen of all Witcheries and
magics. There ye shall assemble, ye who are fain to learn all sorcery,
yet  have not won its deepest secrets.  To these will I teach things
that are yet unknown. And ye shall be free from slavery, and as a sign
that ye be really free, ye shall be naked in your rites, both men and
women, and ye shall dance, sing, feast, make music, and love, all in my
praise. There is a Secret Door that I have made to establish the way to
taste even on earth the elixir of immortality.  Say, `Let ecstasy be
mine, and joy on earth even to me, To Me,'  For I am a gracious Goddess.
I give unimaginable joys on earth, certainty, not faith, while in life!
And upon death, peace unutterable, rest, and ecstasy, nor do I demand
aught in sacrifice."

Magus: "Hear ye the words of the Star Goddess."

High Priestess: "I love you: I yearn for you: pale or purple, veiled or
voluptuous. I who am all pleasure, and purple and drunkenness of the
innermost senses, desire you.  Put on the wings, arouse the coiled
splendor within you. Come unto me, for I am the flame that burns in the
heart of every man, and the core of every Star. Let it be your inmost
divine self who art lost in the constant rapture of infinite joy. Let
the rituals be rightly performed with joy and beauty.  Remember that all
acts of love and pleasure are my rituals.  So let there be beauty and
strength, leaping laughter, force and fire by within you. And if thou
sayest, `I have journeyed unto thee, and it availed me not,' rather
shalt thou say, `I called upon thee, and I waited patiently, and Lo,
thou wast with me from the beginning,' for they that ever desired me
shall ever attain me, even to the end of all desire.

This much of the rites must ever be performed to prepare for any
initiation, whether of one degree or of all three.

A.4. The Initiation (1949)

[First Degree]

Magus leaves circle by the doorway, goes to Postulant, and says, "Since
there is no other brother here, I must be thy sponsor, as well as
priest.  I am about to give you a warning.  If you are still of the same
mind, answer it with these words: `Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.'"
Placing the point of the sword to the Postulant's breast, he says, "O
thou who standeth on the threshold between the pleasant world of men and
the domains of the Dread Lords of the Outer Spaces, hast thou the
courage to make the Assay?  For I tell thee verily, it were better to
rush on my weapon and perish miserably than to make the attempt with
fear in thy heart." Postulant: "I have two Passwords: Perfect Love and
Perfect Trust." Magus drops the sword point, saying, "All who approach
with perfect love and perfect trust are doubly welcome." Going around
behind her, he blindfolds her, then putting his left arm around her


waist and his right arm around her neck, he pulls her head back, says,
"I give you the 3rd password, a Kiss to pass through this dread Door,"
and pushes her forward with his body, through the doorway and into the
circle.  Once inside, he releases her saying, "This is the way all are
first brought into the circle." Magus closes the doorway by drawing the
point of the sword across it three times, joining all three circles,
saying, "Agla, Azoth, Adonai," then drawing three pentacles to seal it.
Magus guides Postulant to south of altar, and whispers, "Now there is
the Ordeal." Taking a short piece of cord from the altar, he ties it
around her right ankle, saying, "Feet neither bound nor free."  Taking a
longer cord, he ties her hands together behind her back, then pulls them
up, so that the arms form a triangle, and ties the cord around her neck,
leaving the end dangling down in front as a Cable Tow. With the Cable
Tow in his left hand and the sword in his right hand, the Magus leads
her sunwise around the circle to the east, where he salutes with the
sword and proclaims, "Take heed, O Lords of the Watchtowers of the East,
(name), properly prepared, will be made a Priestess and a Witch." Magus
leads her similarly to the south, west, and north, making the
proclamation at each quarter. Next, clasping Postulant around the waist
with his left arm, and holding the sword erect in his right hand, he
makes her circumambulate three times around the circle with a
half-running, half-dancing step. He halts her at the south of the altar,
and strikes eleven knells on the bell.  He then kneels at her feet,
saying, "In other religions the postulant kneels, as the Priests claim
supreme power, but in the Art Magical, we are taught to be humble, so we
kneel to welcome them and say:

"Blessed be thy feet that have brought thee in these ways." (He kisses
her feet.)

"Blessed be thy knees that shall kneel at the sacred altar." (He kisses
her knees.)

"Blessed be thy womb, without which we would not be." (He kisses her
Organ of Generation.)

"Blessed by thy breasts, formed in beauty and in strength." (He kisses
her breasts.)

"Blessed be thy lips, which shall utter the sacred names." (He kisses
her lips.)

Take measure thus: height, around forehead, across the heart, and across
the genitals. Magus says, "Be pleased to kneel," and helps her kneel
before the altar.  He ties the end of the Cable Tow to a ring in the
altar, so that the postulant is bent sharply forward, with her head
almost touching the floor.  He also ties her feet together with the
short cord. Magus strikes three knells on the bell and says, "Art ready
to swear that thou wilt always be true to the Art?"

Witch: "I am."



Magus strikes seven knells on the bell and says, "Before ye are sworn,
art willing to pass the ordeal and be purified?"

Witch: "I am."

Magus strikes eleven knells on the bell, takes the scourge from the
altar, and gives a series of three, seven, nine, and 21 strokes with the
scourge across the postulant's buttocks. Magus says, "Ye have bravely
passed the test.  Art always ready to help, protect, and defend thy
Brothers and Sisters of the Art?"

Witch: "I am."

Magus: "Art armed?"

Witch: "With a knife in my hair."

Magus: "Then on that knife wilt thou swear absolute secrecy?"

Witch: "I will."

Magus: "Then say after me. `I, (name), in the presence of the Mighty
Ones, do of my own will and accord, most solemnly swear that I will ever
keep secret and never reveal the secrets of the Art, except it be to a
proper person, properly prepared, within a circle such as I am now in.
All this I swear by my hopes of a future life, mindful that my measure
has been taken, and may my weapons turn against me if I break this my
solemn oath.'"

Magus now unbinds her feet, unties the Cable Tow from the altar, removes
the blindfold, and helps her up to her feet.

Magus says, "I hereby sign thee with the triple sign.

"I consecrate thee with oil."  (He anoints her with oil on the womb, the
right breast, the left breast, and the womb again.)

"I consecrate thee with wine." (He anoints her with wine in the same
pattern.)

"I consecrate thee with my lips" (he kisses her in the same pattern),
"Priestess and Witch."

Magus now unbinds her hands and removes the last cord, saying,  "Now I
Present to thee the Working Tools of a Witch. "First the Magic Sword.
With this, as with the Athame, thou canst form all Magic Circles,
dominate, subdue, and punish all rebellious Spirits and Demons, and even
persuade the Angels and Geniuses.  With this in your hand you are the
ruler of the Circle. [Here "kiss" means that the initiate kisses the
tool, and the Magus then kisses the Witch being initiated.]




"Next I present the Athame.  This is the true Witch's weapon and has all
the powers of the Magic Sword [kiss].

"Next I present the White-Handled Knife. Its use is to form all
instruments used in the Art.  It can only be properly used within a
Magic Circle [Kiss].

"Next I present the Wand. Its use is to call up and control certain
Angels and geniuses, to whom it would not be mete to use the Magic Sword
[Kiss].

"Next I present the pentacles.  These are for the purpose of calling up
appropriate Spirits [Kiss].

"Next I present the Censer of Incense. This is used to encourage and
welcome Good Spirits and to banish Evil Spirits.[kiss]

"Next I present the scourge. This is a sign of power and domination. It
is also to cause suffering and purification, for it is written, to learn
you must suffer and be purified. Art willing to suffer to learn?"

Witch: "I am."[Kiss]

Magus: "Next, and lastly I present the Cords.  They are of use to bind
the sigils in the Art, the material basis, and to enforce thy will. Also
they are necessary in the oath.  I Salute thee in the name of Aradia and
Cernunnos, Newly made Priestess and Witch." Magus strikes seven knells
on the bell and kisses Witch again, then circumambulates with her,
proclaiming to the four quarters, "Hear, ye Mighty Ones, (name) hath
been consecrated Priestess and Witch of the Gods." (Note, if ceremony
ends here, close circle with "I thank ye for attending, and I dismiss ye
to your pleasant abodes.  Hail and farewell." If not, go to next
degree.)

[Second Degree]

Magus binds Witch as before, but does not blindfold her, and
circumambulates with her, proclaims to the four quarters, "Hear, ye
Mighty Ones, (name), a duly consecrated Priestess and Witch, is now
properly prepared to be made a High Priestess and Witch Queen." Magus
now leads her thrice around the circle with the half-running,
half-dancing step, halts south of the altar, has the Witch kneel, and
ties her down to the altar as before.

Magus: "To attain this sublime degree, it is necessary to suffer and be
purified.  Art ready to suffer to Learn?"

Priestess Witch: "I am."

Magus: "I prepare thee to take the great oath."




He strikes three knells on the bell, and again gives the series of
three, seven, nine, and 21 strokes with the scourge as before.

Magus: "I now give thee a new name: _______. [kiss]

Magus: "Repeat thy new name after me,  I, (name), swear upon my
mother's womb and by mine Honor among men and among my brothers and
sisters of the Art, that I will never reveal to any at all any of the
secrets of the Art, except it be to a worthy person, properly prepared,
in the center of a Magic Circle, such as I am now in.  This I swear by
my hopes of Salvation, my past lives, and my hopes of future ones to
come, and I devote myself to utter destruction if I break this my solemn
oath."

Magus kneels, placing left hand under her knees and right hand on her
head, thus forming magic link.

Magus: "I hereby will all my power into you." Wills.

Magus now unties her feet, unties the Cable Tow from the altar, and
helps the Witch to her feet.

Magus: "I hereby sign and consecrate you with the great Magic Sign.
Remember how it is formed and you will always recognize it.

"I consecrate thee with oil." (He anoints her with oil on her womb,
right breast, left hip, right hip, left breast, and womb again, thus
tracing a point-down pentacle.)

"I consecrate thee with wine." (He anoints her with wine in the same
pattern.)

"I consecrate thee with my lips" (he kisses her in the same pattern),
"High Priestess and Witch Queen."

Magus now unbinds Witch's hands and removes the cord, saying, "Newly
made High Priestess and Witch Queen" [kiss] "you will now use the
working tools in turn.

First, the Magic Sword; with it you will scribe the Magic Circle [kiss]

"Secondly, the Athame" (Form Circle) [kiss]

"Thirdly, the White Handled Knife" (use) [kiss]

"Fourthly, the Wand" (Wave to 4 Quarters) [kiss]

"Fifthly, the Pentacle" (Show to 4 Quarters) [kiss]

"Sixthly, the Censer of Incense" (Circle, cense) [kiss]




"Seventhly, the cords; bind me as I bound you." Witch binds Magus and
ties him to Altar.

Magus: "Learn, in Witchcraft, thou must ever return triple.  As I
scourged thee, so thou must scourge me, but triple. So where you
received 3, return 9; where you received 7, return 21; where you
received 9, return 27; where you received 21, return 63." Witch scourges
Magus as instructed, 120 strokes total.

Magus: "Thou hast obeyed the Law.  But mark well, when thou receivest
good, so equally art bound to return good threefold."

Witch now unbinds Magus and helps him to his feet. Magus, taking the new
Initiate by the hand and holding the Athame in the other, passes once
round the Circle, proclaiming at the Four Quarters, "Hear, Ye Mighty
Ones, (name) hath been duly consecrated High Priestess and Witch Queen."
(Note, if ceremony ends here, close circle with "Hail and farewell." If
not go to next degree.)

[Third Degree]

Magus: "Ere we proceed with this sublime degree, I must beg
purification at thy hands."

High Priestess binds Magus and ties him down to the altar.  She
circumambulates three times, and scourges Magus with three, seven, nine,
and 21 strokes.  She then unbinds him and helps him to his feet. Magus
now binds the High Priestess and ties her down to the altar. He
circumambulates, proclaiming to the four quarters, "Hear, ye mighty
Ones, the twice consecrate and Holy (name), High Priestess and Witch
Queen, is properly prepared and will now proceed to erect the Sacred
Altar." Magus scourges High Priestess with three, seven, nine, and 21
strokes. Cakes and wine may now be taken [see section A.5].

Magus: "Now I must reveal to you a great Mystery." [kiss].

Note: if High Priestess has performed this rite before, omit these
words. High Priestess assumes Osiris position.

Magus: "Assist me to erect the Ancient Altar, at which in days past all
worshipped, the Great Altar of all things.  For in the old times a woman
was the Altar.  Thus was the altar made and so placed [Priestess lies
down in such a way that her vagina is approximately at the center of the
circle], and the sacred place was the point within the center of the
circle, as we of old times have been taught, that the point within the
center is the origin of all things.  Therefore should we adore it."
[kiss]

"Therefore, whom we adore, we also invoke, by the power of the lifted
lance." Invokes. "O circle of stars [kiss], whereof our Father is but
the younger brother [kiss], "Marvel beyond imagination, soul of infinite
space, before whom time is ashamed, the mind bewildered and


understanding dark, not unto thee may we attain unless thine image be of
love [kiss].

"Therefore, by seed and root, and stem and bud and leaf and flower and
fruit do we invoke thee, O, Queen of space, O dew of light, O continuous
one of the Heavens [kiss]. "Let it be ever thus, that men speak not of
Thee as one, but as none, and let them not speak of thee at all, since
thou art continuous, for thou art the point within the circle [kiss],
which we adore [kiss], the fount of life without which we would not be
[kiss]. "And in this way truly are erected the Holy Twin Pillars Boaz
and Joachim [kisses breasts].  In beauty and strength were they erected,
to the wonder and glory of all men."

(Eightfold Kiss: 3 points, Lips, 2 Breasts and back to lips; 5 points)

"O Secrets of secrets that art hidden in the being of all lives.  Not
thee do we adore, for that which adoreth is also thou.  Thou art that
and That am I [kiss].

"I am the flame that
burns in every man, and in the core of every star [kiss].

"I am Life and
the giver of Life, yet therefore is the knowledge of me the Knowledge of
Death [kiss].

"I am alone, the Lord within ourselves whose name is
Mystery of Mysteries [kiss].

"Make open the path of intelligence between us.  For these truly are the
5 points of fellowship [on the right appears an illuminated diagram of
the point-up triangle above the pentacle, the symbol for the third
degree], feet to feet, knee to knee, groin to groin, breast to breast,
arms around back, lips to lips, by the Great and Holy Names Abracadabra,
Aradia, and Cernunnos. Magus and High

Priestess: "Encourage our hearts, Let thy Light crystallize itself in
our blood, fulfilling us of Resurrection, for there is no part of us
that is not of the Gods."

(Exchange Names.)

Closing the Circle High Priestess Circumambulates, proclaiming, "The
twice consecrate High Priestess greets ye Mighty Ones, and dismisseth ye
to your pleasant abodes. Hail and Farewell."

She draws the banishing pentacle at each quarter.

A.5. Cakes and Wine (1949)

Magus kneels, fills Cup, offers to Witch [she is seated on the altar,
holding her athame; Priest kneels before her, holding up the cup].


Witch, holding Athame between palms, places point in cup.

Magus: "As the Athame is the Male, so the Cup is the female; so,
conjoined, they bring blessedness."

Witch lays aside Athame, takes Cup in both hands, drinks and gives
drink. Magus Holds Paten to Witch, who blesses with Athame, then eats
and gives to Eat. It is said that in olden days ale or mead was often
used instead of wine. It is said that spirits or anything can be used so
long as it has life.

A.6. The Sabbat Rituals (1949)

November Eve Walk or slow dance, Magus leading High Priestess, both
carrying Phallic wand or broom, people with torches or candles.

Witch chant or song:

  "Eko, eko, Azarak Eko, eko, Zomelak Bazabi lacha bachabe Lamac cahi
  achababe Karrellyos  Lamac lamac Bachalyas cabahagy sabalyos Baryolos
  Lagoz atha cabyolas Samahac atha famolas Hurrahya!"

Form circle.

High Priestess assumes Goddess position.

Magus gives her Fivefold Kiss and is scourged.

All are purified [that is, bound and scourged with forty strokes, as in
the initiation rituals].

Magus assumes God position.

High Priestess invokes with Athame:  "Dread Lord of the shadows, god of
life and the giver of life. Yet is the knowledge of thee the knowledge
of death. Open wide, I pray thee, thy gates through which all must pass.
Let our dear ones who have gone before, return this night to make merry
with us.  And when our time comes, as it must, O thou the comforter, the
consoler, the giver of peace and rest, we will enter thy realms gladly
and unafraid, for we know that when rested and refreshed among our dear
ones, we  shall be born again by thy grace and the grace of the Great
Mother.  Let it be in the same place and the same time as our beloved
ones, and may we meet and know, and love them again.  Descend, we pray
thee, upon thy servant and Priest (name)."

High Priestess gives Fivefold Kiss to Magus.

Initiations if any; all others are purified.

(Note: Couples may purify each other if they will.)

Cakes and Wine.


The Great Rite if possible, either in token or truly.

Dismiss [the guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then
stay to] feast and dance.

February Eve

After usual opening, all are doubly purified [that is, with eighty strokes
].

Dance round outside circle, High Priestess with sword girded on and
drawn, Phallic wand in left hand.

Enter circle.

Magus assumes God position.

High Priestess gives Fivefold Kiss, invokes: "Dread Lord of death and
Resurrection, life and the giver of life, Lord within ourselves, whose
name is Mystery of Mysteries, encourage our hearts. Let the light
crystalize in our blood, fulfilling us of resurrection, for there is no
part of us that is not of the gods. Descend, we pray thee, upon this thy
servant and Priest (name)."

All should be purified in sacrifice before him.  He then purifies the
High Priestess with his own hands, and others if he will.

Cakes and wine.

Great Rite if possible, in token or real.

Games and dance as the people will.

Dismiss [the guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then
stay to] feast and dance.

May Eve

If possible ride poles, brooms, etc. High Priestess leading, quick dance
step, singing

"O do not tell the priests of our arts. For they would call it sin, For
we will be in the woods all night Aconjuring conjuring summer in.

And we bring you good news by word of mouth. For women, cattle, and
corn: The sun is coming up from the south,With oak and ash, and thorn."

Meeting dance if possible.

Form circle as usual, and purify.

High Priestess assumes Goddess position; officers all give her the
fivefold kiss.


She purifies all.

High Priestess again assumes Goddess position.

Magus invokes, draws down moon, "I invoke thee and call upon thee, O
mighty Mother of us all, bringer of all fruitfulness, By seed and root,
by stem and bud, by leaf and flower and fruit, by life and love, do we
invoke thee, to descend upon the body of thy servant and Priestess
here."

Magus gives Fivefold Kiss to High Priestess.

All should be purified in sacrifice before her, and she should purify
Magus and some others with her own hands.

Cakes and wine.

Games.

Great Rite if possible, in token or truly.

Dismiss [the guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then
stay to] feast and dance.

August Eve

If possible, ride poles, broomsticks, etc.

Meeting Dance if possible [the double-spiral dance described in
Witchcraft Today, p. 167].

Form circle.

Purify.

High Priestess stands in pentacle position.

Magus invokes her: "O mighty Mother of us all, Mother of all
fruitfulness, give us fruit and grain, flocks and herds and children to
the tribe that we be mighty, by thy rosy love, do thou descend upon thy
servant and Priestess (name) here."

Magus gives Fivefold Kiss to High Priestess.

Candle game:  Seated, the men form a circle, passing a lighted candle
from hand to hand "deosil".  The women form circle outside, trying to
blow it out over their shoulders.  Whoever's hand it is in when it is
blown out is 3 times purified by whoever blew it out, giving fivefold
Kiss in return.  This game may go on as long as the people like.

Cakes and wine, and any other games you like.



Dismiss [the guardians, and close down the magic circle; the people then
stay to] feast and dance.

 B.1. On Chants (1953)

Of old there were many chants and songs used especially in the Dances.
Many of these have been forgotten by us here, but we know that they used
cries of IAU which seems muchly like the cries EVO or EVOHE of the
ancients.  Much dependeth on the pronunciation if this be so.  In my
youth, when I heard IAU it seemed to be AEIOU, or rather, AAAEEIOOOOUU.
This may be but the natural way to prolong it to make it fit for a call,
but it suggests that these be possibly the initials of an invocation as
Agla is said to be, and of sooth 'tis said that the whole Hebrew
alphabet is said to be such, and for this reason is recited as a most
powerful charm, but at least this is certain, these cries during the
dances do have profound effect, as I myself have seen.

Other calls are IEHOUA and EHEIE; also Ho Ho Ho Ise Ise Ise.

IEO VEO VEO VEO VEOV OROV OV OVOVO may be a spell but is more likely to
be a call.  'Tis like the EVOE EVOE of the Greeks and the "Heave ho!" of
sailors.  "Emen hetan" and "Ab hur, ab hus" seem calls; as "Horse and
hattock, horse and go, horse and Pellatis, ho, ho, ho!"

"Thout, tout a tout tout, throughout and about" and "Rentum tormentum"
are probably mispronounced attempts at a forgotten formula, though they
may have been invented by some unfortunate being tortured, to evade
telling the real formula.

 B.2. To Help the Sick (1953)

[1] Ever remember the promise of the goddess,  "For ecstasy is mine and
joy on earth" so let there ever be joy in your heart.  Greet people with
joy, be glad to see them.  If times be hard, think, "It might have been
worse.  I at least have known the joys of the Sabbath, and I will know
them again."  Think of the grandeur, beauty, and Poetry of the rites, of
the loved ones you meet through them.  If you dwell on this inner joy,
your health will be better.  You must try to banish all fear,  for it
will really  touch you.  It may hurt your body,  but your soul is beyond
it all.

[2] And ever remember, that if you help others it makes you forget your
own woes.  And if another be in pain, do what you may to distract his
attention from it.  Do not say "You have no pain," but if you may,
administer the drugs which sooth as well as those that cure.  But ever
strive to make them believe they are getting better.  Install into them
happy thoughts.  If you can only get this into his inner mind so that it
be always believed.

[3] To this end it is not wrong to let people think that we of the cult
have more power than we have.  For the truth is that if they believe we
have more power than we really possess, we do really possess these


powers, insomuch we can do good to them.

[4] You must try to find out about people.  If you tell a slightly sick
man, "You are looking better.  You will soon be well," he will feel
better, but if he is really ill, or in pain, his Knowledge that he is in
pain will cause him to doubt your words in future.  But if you give him
one of the drugs and then say, "The pain is growing less.  Soon it will
be gone," because the pain goes, the next time you say, "The pain is
going," he will believe you and the pain will really get less.  But you
must ever say so with conviction, and this conviction must come from
your believing it yourself, because you yourself know that if you can
fix his mind so that he believes you, it is true.

[5] 'Tis often better to look exactly between their eyes, looking as if
your eyes pierced their heads, opening your eyes as wide as you may and
never blink.  This continued gazing oft causes the patient to grow
sleepy.  If they show signs of this, say "You are growing sleepy.  You
will sleep, you are tired.  Sleep.  Your eyes grow tired.  Sleep."  If
they close their eyes, say "Your eyes close, you are tired, you cannot
open your eyes."  If they cannot, say "Your arms are tired, you cannot
raise them."  If they cannot, say "I am master of your mind.  You must
ever believe what I tell you.  When I look like this into your eyes you
will sleep and be subject to my will," then tell them they will sleep
and wake up refreshed, feeling better.  Continue this with soothing and
healing drugs, and try to infuse into them the feeling of ecstasy that
you feel at the Sabbath.  They cannot feel it in full, but you can
command them to feel what is in your own mind, and try to concentrate on
this ecstasy.  I f you may safely tell that you are of the Cult, your
task may be easier.  And it were well to command them to know it only
with their sleeping mind, and forget it, or to be at least unable to
tell anyone about it when awake. A good way is to command them that, if
they are ever questioned about Witchcraft or Witches, to immediately
fall asleep.

[6] Ever remember if tempted to admit or boast of belonging to the cult
you be endangering your brothers, for though now the fires of
persecution may have died down, who knows when they may be revived?
Many priests have knowledge of our secrets, and they well know that,
though much religious bigotry has calmed down, many people would wish to
join our cult.  And if the truth were known of its joys, the Churches
would lose power, so if we take many recruits, we may loose the fires of
persecution against us a gain.  So ever keep the secrets.

[7] Think joy, think love, try to help others and bring joy into their
lives.  Children are naturally easier to influence than grown people.
Ever strive to work through people's existing beliefs. For instance,
more than half of the world believe in amulets.  An ordinary stone is
not an amulet but if it hath a natural hole in it, it must be something
unusual, so if the patient hath this belief give him one.  But first
carry it next your skin for a few days, forcing your will into it, to
cure pain, to feel s safe, or against their particular fear, and this
amulet may keep imposing your will when you are absent.  The masters of


talismans knew this full well when they say they must be made in a
circle, to avoid distraction, by someone whose mind is on the subject of
the work.

[8] But keep your own mind happy.  Remember the Words of the Goddess: "I
give unimaginable joys on Earth, certainty, not faith, while in life,
and upon death, peace unutterable, rest, and ecstasy, and the promise
that you will return again."  In the old days many of us went to the
flames laughing and singing, and so we may again. We may have joy in
life and beauty, and peace and Death and the promise of return.

[9] The Bible speaks sooth, "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine
but a broken spirit breaketh the bones."  But you may not have a merry
heart.  Perchance you were born under an evil star.  I think that the
effects of the stars are overestimated, but you cannot make a merry
heart to order, you say.  But you can, in the Cult; there be secret
processes by which your will and imagination may be influenced.  This
process also affects the body, and brings it to joy.  Your body is
happy, so your mind is happy .  You are well because you are happy, and
you are happy because you are well.

[10] Prayer may be used with good result if the patient believes it can
and will work.  Many believe it can, but do not believe their God or
saint will help.  Prayers to the Goddess help, especially the Amalthean
Horn Prayer, as it causes stimulation to the body as well as to the
mind.

 B.3. The Scourge and the Kiss. (1953)

[1] Invocation

(Feet, knees, and wrists should be tightly bound to retard blood.)
Scourge 40 or more, to make skin tingle, then say, invoking Goddess,

Hail, Aradia, from the Amalthean horn
        Pour forth thy store of Love.  I lowly bend
 Before Thee!  I invoke thee at the end
        When other Gods are fallen and put to scorn.
Thy foot is to my lips!  My sighs inborn
        Rise, touch, curl about thy heart.  Then spend,
        Pitiful Love, loveliest Pity, descend
 And bring me luck who am lonely and forlorn.

Ask the Goddess to help you to obtain your desires, then Scourge again
to bind the spell. This be powerful in ill luck and for sickness.  It
must be said in a Circle, and you must be properly prepared and well
purified, both before and after saying, to bind the spell. Before
starting you must make a very clear picture in your mind of what you
wish.  Make yourself see the wish obtained.  Be sure in your own mind
exactly what it is and how it is to be fulfilled. This spell is the one
that was taught to me long ago and I have found it works, but I don't
think there is any special virtue in these words.  Any others can be


substituted provided they ask the goddess's (or gods') help, and say
clearly what you wish and you form the clear mental image; and if it
doesn't work at first, keep on trying till it works.  Your helper, who
wields the scourge, must know what you wish, and also form the mental
image.  And at first at any rate, it will be better for you to work the
spell, then for the girl to take your place and work it also; you
scourge her.  Don't try anything difficult at first, and do it at least
once a week till it works.  You have to get into sympathy with each
other, before anything happens, and regular working helps this. Of
spells, the exact words matter little if the intent be clear and you
raise the true power, and sufficient thereof.  Always in rhyme they are.
There is something queer about rhyme.  I have tried, and the same seem
to lose their power if you miss the rhyme.  Also in rhyme, the words
seem to say themselves.  You do not have to pause and think: "What comes
next?"  Doing this takes away much of your intent.

[2] Order and discipline must be kept.  A High Priest or Priestess may
 and should punish all faults to this end, and all of the Cult must
 accept such corrections willingly.  All are brothers and sisters, for
 this reason: that even the High Priestess must submit to the scourge.
 Each fault should be corrected separately.  The Priest or Priestess
 must be properly prepared and call the culprit to trial.  They must be
 prepared as for initiation and kneel, be told their fault and sentence
 pronounced.  Punishment should be the scourge, followed by a forfeit
 such as several fivefold kisses or something of this nature.  The
 culprit must acknowledge the justice of the punishment by kissing hands
 and scourge on receiving sentence and again when thanking for
 punishment received.*

[3] The scourgings are 3, 7, 9 (thrice three), and 21 (thrice seven) 40
in all.  It is not meet to make offerings [scourgings] of less than two
score to the Goddess, for here be a mystery.  The fortunate numbers be:
3 and 5.  For three added to two (the Perfect Couple) be five.  And
three and five be eight; eight and five be thirteen; thirteen and eight
be twenty-one. The Fivefold Kiss is called 5, but there are 8 kisses,
for there be 2 feet and 2 knees and genitals and 2 breasts and the lips.
And 5 times 8 be two score.  Also, fortunate numbers be 3, 7, 8, and 21,
which total 40, or two score.  For each man and woman hath ten fingers
and ten toes, so each totals a score.  And a perfect couple be two
score. So a lesser number would not be perfect prayer. If more are
required make it a perfect number, as four score or six score. Also
there be Eight Elemental Weapons.

[4] To make the anointing ointment, take some glazed pans filled half
full with grease or olive oil.  Put in one sweet mint, marjoram in
another, ground thyme in a 3rd, and it you may have it, patchouli, dried
leaves pounded.  Place pans in hot water bath.  Stir and cook for
several hours, then pout into linen bags, and squeeze grease through
into pans again, and fill up with fresh leaves.  After doing this
several times, the grease will be highly perfumed.  Then mix all
together and store in a well-corked jar. Anoint behind ears, throat,
armpits, breasts, and womb.  Also, for all ceremonies where the feet are


kissed, they should also be anointed.

 B.4. The Priestess and the Sword (1953)

It is said, "When a woman takes the main part in worship of the Male
God, she must be girt with a sword." Note.  This hath been explained as
meaning that a man should be Magus representing the God, but if no one
of sufficient rank and knowledge be present, a woman armed as a man may
take his place.  The sheath should be worn in a belt.  She should carry
the sword in hand, but if she has to use her hands, she should sheath
the sword.  Any other woman in the circle while this worship is
performed shall be sword in hand.  Those outside the circle only have
the athame. A woman may impersonate either the God or the Goddess, but a
man may only impersonate the God.

 B.5. The Warning (1953)

Keep this book in your own hand of write.  Let brothers and Sisters copy
what they will, but never let this book out of your hands, and never
keep the writings of another, for if it be found in their hand of write,
they may well be taken and tortured.  Each should guard his own writings
and destroy them whenever danger threatens. Learn as much as you may by
heart, and when the danger is past, rewrite your book.  For this reason,
if any die, destroy their book if they have not been able to, for, if it
be found nd, 'tis clear proof against them.  "Ye may not be a Witch
alone";  so all their friends be in danger of the torture.  So destroy
everything not necessary. If your book be found on you, 'tis clear proof
against you.  You may be tortured.  Keep all thought of the cult from
your mind.  Say you had bad dreams, that a Devil caused you to write
this without your knowledge. Think to yourself,  "I Know Nothing.  I
Remember nothing. I have forgotten all."  Drive this into your mind. If
the torture be too great to bear, say, "I will confess.  I cannot bear
this torment.  What do you want me to say?  Tell me and I will say it."
If they try to make you talk of the broth , do not, but if they
try to make you speak of impossibilities, such as flying through the
air, consorting with the Devil, sacrificing children, or eating men's
flesh, say, "I had an evil dream.  I was not myself.  I was crazed." Not
all Magistrates are bad.  If there be an excuse, they may show you
mercy.  If you have confessed aught, deny it afterwards.  Say you
babbled under the torture; you knew not what you did or said.  If you be
condemned, fear not.  The Brotherhood is powerful.  They may help you to
escape if you are steadfast.  If you betray aught, there is no hope for
you, in this life, or in that which is to come. But, 'tis sure, that if
steadfast you go to the pyre, drugs will reach you.  You will feel
naught, and you go but to Death and what lies beyond, the ecstasy of the
Goddess. The same with the working Tools.  Let them be as ordinary
things that anyone may have in their homes.  The Pentacles shall be of
wax that they may be melted or broken at once.  Have no sword unless
your rank allows you one.  Have no names or signs on anything.  Write
them on in ink before consecrating them and wash it off at once when
finished. Never boast, never threaten, never say you wish ill to anyone.
If any speak of the craft, say, "Speak not to me of such, it frightens


me, 'tis evil luck to speak of it."

 B.6. Of the Ordeal of the Art Magical (1953)

Learn of the spirit that goeth with burdens that have not honour, for
'tis the spirit that stoopeth the shoulders and not the weight.  Armour
is heavy, yet it is a proud burden and a man standeth upright in it.
Limiting and constraining any of the senses serves to increase the
concentration of another.  Shutting the eyes aids the hearing.  So the
binding of the initiate's hands increases the mental perception, while
the scourge increaseth the inner vision.  So the initiate goeth through
it proudly, like a princess, knowing it but serves to increase her
glory. But this can only be done by the aid of another intelligence and
in a circle, to prevent the power thus generated being lost.  Priests
attempt to do the same with their scourgings and mortifications of the
flesh.  But lacking the aid of bonds and their attention being
distracted by their scourging themselves and what little power they do
produce being dissipated, as they do not usually work within a circle,
it is little wonder that they oft fail.  Monks and hermits do better, as
they are apt to work in tiny cells and coves, which in some way act as
circles.  The Knights of the Temple, who used mutually to scourge each
other in an octagon, did better still; but they apparently did not know
the virtue of bonds and did evil, man to man. But perhaps some did know?
What of the Church's charge that they wore girdles or cords?

 B.7.  The Eightfold Way. (1953)

Eightfold Path or Ways to the Centre.

1 Meditation or Concentration.  This in practice means forming a mental
image of what is desired, and forcing yourself to see that it is
fulfilled, with the fierce belief and knowledge that it can and will be
fulfilled, and that you will go on willing till you force it to be
fulfilled.  Called for short, "Intent"

2 Trance, projection of the Astral.

3 Rites, Chants, Spells, Runes, Charms, etc.

4 Incense, Drugs, Wine, etc., whatever is used to release the Spirit.
(Note. One must be very careful about this.  Incense is usually
harmless, but you must be careful.  If it has bad aftereffects, reduce
the amount used, or the duration of the time it is inhaled.  Drugs are
very dangerous if taken to excess, but it must be remembered that there
are drugs that are absolutely harmless, though people talk of them with
bated breath, but Hemp is especially dangerous, because it unlocks the
inner eye swiftly an d easily, so one is tempted to use it more and
more.  If it is used at all, it must be with the strictest precautions,
to see that the person who uses it has no control over the supply.  This
should be doled out by some responsible person, and the supply strictly
limited.)



5 The Dance, and kindred practices.

6 Blood control (the Cords), Breath Control, and kindred practices.

7 The Scourge.

8 The Great Rite.

These are all the ways.  You may combine many of them into the one
experiment, the more the better.

The Five Essentials:

1. The most important is "Intention": you must know that you can and
will succeed; it is essential in every operation.

2. Preparation. (You must be properly prepared according to the rules of
the Art; otherwise you will never succeed.)

3. The Circle must be properly formed and purified.

4. You all must be properly purified, several times if necessary, and
this purification should be repeated several times during the rite.

5. You must have properly consecrated tools.

These five essentials and Eight Paths or Ways cannot all be combined in
one rite.  Meditation and dancing do not combine well, but forming the
mental image and the dance may be well combined with Chants.  Spells,
etc., combined with scourging and No. 6, followed by No. 8, form a
splendid combination.  Meditation, following scourging, combined with
Nos. 3 and 4 and 5, are also very Good. For short cuts concentration,
Nos. 5, 6, 7, and 8 are excellent.

 B.8. To Gain the Sight (1953)

[1] This cometh to different people in diverse ways. 'Tis seldom it
cometh naturally, but it can be induced in many ways.  Deep and
prolonged meditation may do it, but only if you be a natural, and
usually prolonged fasting was also necessary.  Of old monks and nuns
obtained visions by long vigils, combined with fasting, flagellation
till the blood came, and other mortifications of the flesh, and so
undoubtedly had visions.  In the East it is tried with various tortures,
at the same time sitting in cramped postures, which retard the flow of
blood, and these torments, long and continued, give good results.  But
in the Art we are taught an easier way to intensify the imagination, at
the same time controlling the blood supply, and this may best be done by
using the ritual.

[2] Incense is also good to propitiate the Spirits, but also to induce
 relaxation and to help to build up the atmosphere which is necessary
 to suggestibility. (For our human eyes are so blind to what really is,


 that it is often necessary to suggest that it is there, before we may
 see it, as we may point out to another something at a distance before
 they may see it themselves.  Gum mastic, aromatic rush roots, cinnamon
 bark, musk, juniper, sandalwood, and ambergris in combination are all
 good, but patchouli is best of all.  And if you may have hemp, 'tis
 better still, but be very careful of this.

[3] The circle being formed, all properly prepared, and the Rites done,
and all purified, the aspirant should warlock and take his tutor round
the circle, saluting the Mighty Ones, and invoke them to aid the
operation.  Then both dance round till giddy, invoking or using chants.
Scourge.  Then the Tutor should warlock very tightly, but not so to
cause discomfort, but enough to retard the blood slightly.  Again they
should dance round, chanting, then scourge with light, steady,
monotonous, slow strokes.  It is very good that the pupil may see them
coming (this may be arranged from position, or if a big mirror is
available, this can be used with excellent effect) as this has the
effect of passes, and helps greatly to stimulate the imagination, and it
is important that they be not hard, the object being not to do more than
draw the blood to that part and so away from the brain.  This with the
tight warlocking, which should be warricked, slows down the circulation
of the blood, and t he passes soon induce a drowsi ness and a stupor.
The tutor should watch for this.  As soon as the aspirant sleeps, the
scourging should cease.  The tutor should also watch that the pupil
become not cold, and if they struggle or become distressed, they should
be at once awakened.  (Note: if it cannot be arranged for the pupil to
see, the wand may be used, for a time, then return to scourging.)

[4] Do not be discouraged if no results come after two or three
attempts.  It will come, when both are in the right state.  When you get
some result, then results will come more quickly.  Soon some of the
ritual may be shortened, but never neglect to invoke the Goddess, and
the Mighty Ones, or to form the Circle and do everything rightly.  And
for good and clear results, it is ever better to do too much ritual than
too little.

[5] It hath been found that this practice doth often cause a fondness
between aspirant and tutor, and 'tis a cause of better results if this
be so.  If for any reason it is undesirable that there be any great
fondness between aspirant and tutor, this may be easily avoided, by both
parties from the onset firmly resolving in their minds that if any doth
ensue, it shall be that of brother and sister or parent and child.  And
it is for this reason that a man may only be taught by a woman and a
woman by a man, a nd that man and man, and woman and woman, should never
attempt these practices together. And may all the Curses of the Mighty
Ones be on any who make the attempt.*

[6] Remember, the Circle, properly constructed, is ever necessary to
prevent the power released from being dissipated.  It is also a barrier
against any disturbances of mischievous forces, for to obtain good
results you must be free from all disturbances.  Remember that darkness,
points of light gleaming amid the surrounding dark, incense, and the


steady passes by a white arm are not stage effects. They are the
mechanical implements which start the suggestions, which later unlocks
the knowledge that it is p possible to obtain the divine ecstasy, and so
attain knowledge and communion with the Divine Goddess.  When once you
have attained this, Ritual is not needed, as you may attain the state of
ecstasy at will, but till then, or if you having attained this yourself,
and wish to bring a companion to this state of joy, ritual is best.

 B.9.  Power (1953)

Power is latent in the body and may be drawn out and used in various
ways by the skilled.  But unless confined in a circle it will be swiftly
dissipated.  Hence the importance of a properly constructed circle.
Power seems to exude from the body via the skin and possibly from the
orifices of the body; hence you should be properly prepared.  The
slightest dirt spoils everything, which shows the importance of thorough
cleanliness. The attitude of mind has great effect, so only work with a
spirit of reverence.  A little wine taken and repeated during the
ceremony, if necessary, helps to produce power.  Other strong drinks or
drugs may be used, but it is necessary to be very moderate, for if you
are confused, even slightly, you cannot control the power you evoke. The
simplest way is by dancing and singing monotonous chants, slowly at
first and gradually quickening the tempo until giddiness ensues.  Then
the calls may be used, or even wild and meaningless shrieking produces
power.  But this method inflames the mind and renders it difficult to
control the power, though control may be gained through practice.  The
scourge is a far better way, for it stimulates and excites both body and
soul, yet one e easily retains control. The Great Rite is far the best.
It releases enormous power, but the conditions and circumstances make it
difficult for the mind to maintain control at first.  It is again a
matter of practice and the natural strength of the operator's will and,
in a lesser degree, of those of his assistants.  If, as of old, there
were many trained assistants present and all wills properly attuned,
wonders occurred. Sorcerers chiefly used the blood sacrifice; and while
we hold this to be evil, we cannot deny that this method is very
efficient.  Power flashes forth from newly shed blood, instead of
exuding slowly as by our method.  The victim's terror and anguish add
keenness, and even quite a small animal can yield enormous power.  The
great difficulty is in the human mind controlling the power of the lower
animal mind.  But sorcerers claim they have methods for effecting this
and that the difficulty disappears the higher her the animal used, and whe
n
the victim is human disappears entirely.  (The practice is an
abomination but it is so.) Priests know this well; and by their
auto-da-fe, with the victims' pain and terror (the fires acting much the
same as circles), obtained much power. Of old the Flagellants certainly
evoked power, but through not being confined in a circle much was lost.
The amount of power raised was so great and continuous that anyone with
knowledge could direct and use it; and it is most probable that the
classical and heathen sacrifices were used in the same way.  There are
whispers that when the human victim was a willing sacrifice, with his
mind directed on the Great Work and with highly skilled assistants,
wonders ensued  but  of this I would not speak.


 B.10. Properly Prepared. (1953)

Naked, but sandals (not shoes) may be worn.  For initiation, tie hands
behind back, pull up to small of back, and tie ends in front of throat,
leaving a cable-tow to lead by, hanging down in front.  (Arms thus form
a triangle at back.)  When initiate is kneeling at altar, the cable-tow
is tied to a ring in the altar.  A short cord is tied like a garter
round the initiate's left leg above the knee, with ends tucked in.
Another is tied round right ankle and ends tucked in so as to be out of
the way while mov ing about.  These cords are used to tie feet together
while initiate is kneeling at the altar and must be long enough to do
this firmly.  Knees must also be firmly tied.  This must be carefully
done.  If the aspirant complains of pain, the bonds must be loosened
slightly; always remember the object is to retard the blood flow enough
to induce a trance state.  This involves slight discomfort, but great
discomfort prevents the trance state; so it is best to spend some little
time loosening a nd tightening the bonds until they are just right.  The
aspirant alone can tell you when this is so.  This, of course, does not
apply to the initiation, as then no trance is desired; but for the
purpose of ritual it is good that the initiates be bound firmly enough
to feel they are absolutely helpless but without discomfort.

B.11.  The Meeting Dance. (1953)

The Maiden should lead.  A man should place both hands on her waist,
standing behind her, and alternate men and women should do the same, the
Maiden leading and they dance following her.  She at last leads them
into a right-hand spiral.  When the center is reached (and this had
better be marked by a stone), she suddenly turns and dances back,
kissing each man as she comes to him.  All men and women turn likewise
and dance back, men kissing girls and girls kissing men.  All in time to
music, it is a merry game, but must be practiced to be done well.
Note, the musicians should watch the dancers and make the music fast or
slow as is best.  For the beginners it should be slow, or there will be
confusion.  It is most excellent to get people to know each other at big
gatherings.

 B.12. To Leave the Body. (1953)

 'Tis not wise to strive to get out of your body until you have
 thoroughly gained the Sight.  The same ritual as to gain the Sight may
 be used, but have a comfortable couch.  Kneel so that you have your
 thigh, belly, and chest well supported, the arms strained forward and
 bound one on each side, so that there is a decided feeling of being
 pulled forward.  As the trance is induced, you should feel a striving
 to push yourself out of the top of your head.  The scourge should be
 given a dragging action, as if to drive or drag you out.  Both wills
 should be thoroughly in tune, keeping a constant and equal strain.
 When trance comes, your tutor may help you by softly calling your name.
 You will probably feel yourself drawn out of your body as if through a
 narrow opening, and find yourself standing beside your tutor, looking
 at the body on the couch.  Strive to communicate with your tutor first;


if they have the Sight they will probably see you.  Go not far afield
 at first, and 'ti s better to have one who is used to leaving the body
 with you. A note: When, having succeeded in leaving the body, you
 desire to return, in order to cause the spirit body and the material
 body to coincide, THINK OF YOUR FEET.  This will cause the return to
 take place.

 B.13. The Working Tools (1953)

 There are no magical supply shops, so unless you are lucky enough to be
 given or sold tools, a poor witch must extemporize.  But when made you
 should be able to borrow or obtain an Athame.  So having made your
 circle, erect an altar.  Any small table or chest will do.  There must
 be fire on it (a candle will suffice) and your book.  For good results
 incense is best if you can get it, but coals in a chafing dish burning
 sweet-smelling herbs will do.  A cup if you would have cakes and wine,
 and a platter with the signs drawn into the same in ink, showing a
 pentacle.  A scourge is easily made (note, the scourge has eight tails
 and five knots in each tail).  Get a white-hilted knife and a wand (a
 sword is not necessary).  Cut the marks with Athame.  Purify
 everything, then consecrate your tools in proper form and ever be
 properly prepared.  But ever remember, magical operations are useless
 unless the mind can be brought to the proper attitude, keyed to the
 utmost pitch. Affirmations must be made clearly, and the mind should be
 inflamed with desire.  With this frenzy of will, you may do as much
 with simple tools as with the most complete set.  But good and
 especially ancient tools have their own aura.  They do help to bring
 about that reverential spirit, the desire to learn and develop your
 powers.  For this reason witches ever try to obtain tools from
 sorcerers, who, being skilled men, make good tools and consecrate them
 well, giving them mighty power.  But a great witch's tools also gain
 much power; and you should ever strive to make any tools you
 manufacture of the finest materials you can obtain, to the end that
 they may absorb your power the more easily.  And of course if you may
 inherit or obtain another witch's tools, power will flow from them. It
 is an old belief that the best substances for making tools are those
 that have once had life in them, as opposed to artificial substances.
 Thus wood or ivory is better for a wand than metal, which is more
 appropriate for knives or swords.  Virgin parchment is better than
 manufactured paper for talismans, etc.  And things which have been made
 by hand are good, because there is life in them.

 B.14. Skyclad (1953)

 It is important to work naked from the start, so it becometh as second
nature, and no thought of "I have no clothes" shall ever intrude and
take your attention from the work.  Also, your skin being so accustomed
to unconfinement, when power is given off the flow is more easy and
regular.  Also, when dancing you are free and unconfined. . . . And the
greatest of all, the touch of the body of your beloved thrills your
inmost soul, and so your body gives out its utmost power; and then it is
most important of all that there is not the slightest thing to divert


the attention, for then the mind must seize and mold the power
generated, and redirect it to the desired end with all the force and
frenzy of the imagination. It has been said that no real knowledge may
be gained our way, that our practices are such that they can only lead
to lust; but this is not really so.  Our aim is to gain the inner sight,
and we do it the most natural and easy way.  Our opponents' aim is ever
to prevent man and woman from loving, thinking that everything that
helps or even permits them to love is wicked and vile.  To us it is
natural, and if it aids the Great Work it is good. 'Tis true that a
couple burning with a frenzy for knowledge may go straight to their
goal, but the average couple have not this fire.  We show them the way,
our system of props and aids (i.e., magic ritual).  A couple working
with nothing but lust will never attain in any case; but a couple who
love each other dearly should already be sleeping together, and the
first frenzy of love will have passed, and their souls will already be
in sympathy.  If the first time or two they do stay a while to worship
Aphrod ite, 'tis only a day or two lost, and the intense pleasure they
obtain only leads them again to the mysteries of Hermes, their souls
more attuned to the great search.  Once they have pierced the veil they
will not look back. This rite may be used as the greatest of magics if

it be done with both partners firmly fixing their minds on the object
and not thinking of sex at all.  That is, you must so firmly fix your
mind on your object that sex and all else are naught.  You inflame your
will to such an extent that you may create a strain on the astral such
that events happen.

 C.1.  A Revision of the Casting Procedure (1957)

ALL ARE PURIFIED

[1] Magus consecrates salt and water.

[2] High Priestess kneels at Altar, takes up Sword, says, "I conjure
thee, O Sword of Steel, to serve me as a defence in all Magical
Operations.  Guard me at all times against mine enemies, both visible
and invisible.  Grant that I may obtain what I desire in all things
wherein I may use Thee, Wherefore do I bless Thee and invoke Thee in the
names of Aradia and Cernunnos."  Gives Sword to Magus.

[3] Magus kneeling hands her vessel of consecrated Water and
Aspergillum.  He Casts the Circle, three circles, on the lines marked
out, starting at the East and returning to the East.  High Priestess
follows, Asperging Circle (sprinkling it to purify it) and all present
and finally herself.  Then she goes round again censing it.  (Everyone
in the circle must be sprinkled and censed.)  She returns vessel, etc.,
to Magus, who places them on altar, or convenient place, and hands her
Sword [handwritten].

[4] She walks slowly round Circle, saying, "I conjure Thee, O Circle of
Space, that thou be a Boundary and a Protection and a meeting place
between the world of Men and that of the Dread Lords of the OUTER
SPACES, that Thou be cleansed, Purified, and strengthened to be a


Guardian and a Protection that shall preserve and contain THAT POWER
which we so earnestly desire to raise within thy bounds this night,
wherefore do I bless thee and entreat thee to aid me in the endeavor, in
the names of Aradia and Cernun nos." Hands sword to Magus [handwritten].

[5] Magus then summons the Mighty Ones as usual.

[6] High Priestess stands in front of Altar (which may be pushed back
for this).  High Priestess assumes Goddess position (arms crossed).
Magus kneeling in front of her, draws pentacle on her body with
Phallus-headed Wand, Invokes (Drawing down the Moon), "I Invoke and
beseech Thee, O mighty MOTHER of all life and fertility.  `By seed and
root, by stem and bud, by leaf and flower and fruit, by Life and Love,
do I invoke Thee' to descend into the body of thy servant and High
Priestess (name)." (The Moon hav ing been drawn down, i.e., link
established, Magus and all male officers give fivefold kiss; all others
bow.)

[7] High Priestess in Goddess position says, arms crossed,

"Mother, Darksome and Divine,Mine the Scourge and Mine the Kiss,The
Five-point Star of Love and Bliss; Here I charge ye in this Sign. (Opens
out Arms to pentacle position)

Bow before my Spirit bright                     (All bow)
Aphrodite, Arianrhod,Lover of the Horned God,
Queen of Witchery and Night.

Diana, Brigid, Melusine,
        Am I named of old by men,
        Artemis and Cerridwen,
Hell's dark mistress, Heaven's Queen.

Ye who ask of me a boon,
        Meet ye in some hidden shade,
        Lead my dance in greenwood glade
By the light of the full moon.

Dance about mine altar stone,
        Work my holy magistry,
        Ye who are fain of sorcery,
I bring ye secrets yet unknown.

No more shall ye know slavery
        who tread my round the Sabbat night.
        Come ye all naked to the rite
In sign that ye are truly free.

Keep ye my mysteries in mirth,
        Heart joined to heart and lip to lip.
        Five are the points of fellowship
That bring ye ecstasy on Earth.


No other law but love I know;
        By naught but love may I be known,
        And all that liveth is my own:
From me they come, to me they go.

 C.2.  The Prose Charge (1957)

THE CHARGE, to be read while the initiate stands, properly prepared
before the Circle.

[Magus]: Listen to the words of the Great mother, who was of old also
called among men, Artemis, Astarte, Dione, Melusine, Aphrodite,
Cerridwen, Diana, Arianrhod, Bride, and by many other names.

[High Priestess]: "At mine Altars the youth of Lacedaemon in Sparta made
due sacrifice. Whenever ye have need of anything, once in the month, and
better it be when the moon is full. Then ye shall assemble in some
secret place and adore the spirit of Me who am Queen of all Witcheries.
There ye shall assemble, ye who are fain to learn all sorcery, yet who
have not won its deepest secrets.  To these will I teach things that are
yet unknown. And ye shall be free from slavery, and as a sign that ye be
really fre e, ye shall be naked in your rites, and ye shall dance, sing,
feast, make music, and love, all in my praise.' "For mine is the ecstasy
of the Spirit, and mine is also joy on earth.  For my Law is Love unto
all beings. "Keep pure your highest ideals.  Strive ever towards it.
Let naught stop you or turn you aside. "For mine is the secret which
opens upon the door of youth; and mine is the cup of the Wine of Life:
and the Cauldron of Cerridwen, which is the Holy Grail of Immortality.
"I am the Gracious Goddess who gives the gift of Joy unto the heart of
Man. "Upon Earth I give the knowledge of the Spirit Eternal, and beyond
death I give peace and freedom, and reunion with those who have gone
before.  Nor do I demand aught in sacrifice, for behold, I am the Mother
of all things, and my love is poured out upon earth."

[Magus]: Hear ye the words of the Star Goddess, She in the dust of whose
feet are the hosts of Heaven, whose body encircleth the universe.

[High Priestess]: "I who am the beauty of the green earth; and the White
Moon amongst the Stars; and the mystery of the Waters; and the desire of
the heart of man. I call unto thy soul: arise and come unto me. "For I
am the Soul of nature who giveth life to the Universe; `From me all
things proceed; and unto me, all things must return.'  Beloved of the
Gods and men, thine inmost divine self shall be enfolded in the raptures
of the infinite. "Let my worship be within the heart that rejoiceth, for
behold: all acts of love and pleasure are my rituals;  and therefore let
there be Beauty and Strength, Power and Compassion, Honour and Humility,
Mirth and reverence within you. "And thou who thinkest to seek me, know
that thy seeking and yearning shall avail thee not unless thou know the
mystery, that if that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee,
thou wilt never find it without thee, for behold; I have been with thee
from the beginning, and I am that which is attained at the end of
desire."


 C.3. CAKES AND WINE. (1957)

High Priestess seated on Altar, God position.

Magus, kneeling, kisses her feet, then knees, bows with head below her
knees, extends arms along her thighs, and adores.

Magus fills cup and offers it to High Priestess, who, holding Athame
between palms, places point in cup.

Magus says: "As the Athame is the male, so the cup is the female, and
conjoined they bring blessedness."

High Priestess lays Athame aside, and takes Cup and drinks, gives Cup to
server, who puts a little in each glass.

Magus presents Pentacle with cakes to High Priestess, saying, "Oh Queen
most secret, bless this food unto our bodies, bestowing health, wealth,
strength, joy and peace, and that fulfillment of love that is perpetual
happiness".

High Priestess blesses them with Athame, takes Cake and eats, while the
Magus gives her the Cup again and kisses knees and adores.

All sit as Witches, and invite High Priestess to join them.

 C.4.  The Sabbat Rituals (1957)

 Spring equinox

The symbol of the wheel should be placed on the altar upright, decked with
 flowers, flanked with burning candles.  The Cauldron, containing spirits,
 is in the east.  Magus in west,  High Priestess in east with Phallic wand
 or pinecone-tipped wand, or broomstick, or riding pole, broom upwards.
High Priestess lights Cauldron, saying,

"We kindle fire this day!
In the presence of the Holy Ones:Without malice, without jealousy, without
 envy.
Without fear of aught beneath the sun.But the High Gods.

Thee we invoke: O light of life:Be thou a bright flame before us:
Be thou a guiding star above us:Be thou a smooth path beneath us;

Kindle thou in our hearts within,A flame of love for our neighbor, To
our foes, to our friends, to our kindred all:To all men on this broad
Earth.

O merciful son of Cerridwen, From the lowest thing that liveth
To the name that is highest of all."

High Priestess draw pentacle upon Magus with wand, kiss, gives it to
him.  He does likewise.  They lead the dance round the circle, all
couples leaping burning fire.  The last couple as the fire goes out


should be well-purified three times, and each should give Fivefold Kiss
to all of opposite sex.

Cakes and wine.

If the people will, the Cauldron dance can be done again, many times, or
other games can be played.

 Summer Solstice

Form circle.  Invoke,  Purify.  Cauldron is placed before altar filled
with water, wreathed with summer flowers.  The people, men and women
alternately, stand round circle. High Priestess stands in north, before
Cauldron, holding raised wand, which should be Phallic or tipped with a
pinecone (anciently the thyrsus) or a riding pole or a broomstick,
invokes the sun.

 "Great One of Heaven, Power of the Sun, we invoke thee in thine ancient
names, Michael, Balin, Arthur, Lugh, Herne.  Come again, as of old, into
this thy land.  Lift up thy shining spear of light to protect us.  Put
to flight the powers of darkness, give us fair woodlands and green
fields, blossoming orchards and r ipening corn. Bring us to stand upon
thy hill of vision, and show us the path to the lovely realms of the
gods."

High Priestess draws invoking pentacle on Magus with wand.

Magus comes forward sunwise and takes wand with kiss, plunges wand into
Cauldron and holds it upright, saying, "The spear to the Cauldron, the
lance to the Grail, spirit to flesh, man to woman, sun to earth." He
salutes High Priestess over Cauldron, then rejoins people, still bearing
wand.

High Priestess takes aspergillum, stands by Cauldron, says, "Dance ye
about the Cauldron of Cerridwen the Goddess, and be ye blessed with the
touch of this consecrated water, even as the sun, the lord of light,
arriveth in his strength in the sign of the waters of life."

The people dance sunwise about the altar and Cauldron, led by Magus
bearing wand.  High Priestess sprinkles them lightly as they pass her.

Ritual of cakes and wine.

Any other dances, rites, or games as the Priestess and people wish.

Autumn equinox

The altar should be decorated with symbols of autumn, pine cones, oak
sprigs, acorns, or ears of corn, and should have fire or burning incense
on it as usual.  After usual purification, the people stand round, men
and women alternately.  Magus at west of altar in God position.



High Priestess stands at east of altar, facing him, and reads the
incantation.

"Farewell, O Sun, ever returning light. The hidden god, who ever yet
remains.  He departs to the land of youth, through the gates of death,
to dwell enthroned, the judge of gods and man.  The horned leader of the
hosts of air.  Yet, even as stand unseen about the circle the forms of
the Mighty Lords of the Outer Spaces,. So dwelleth he, `the lord within
ourselves'.  So dwelleth he within the secret seed, the seed of new
reaped grain, the seed of flesh, hidden in the earth, the marvellous
seed of the stars.

 `In him is life, and life is the light of men [John 1:4],' that which
 was never born and never dies.  Therefore the Wicca weep not, but
 rejoice."

The High Priestess goes to the Magus with a kiss.  He lays aside Athame
and scourge, and kisses her.  The High Priestess hands him her wand,
which should be Phallic, or a branch tipped with a pinecone, Or a riding
pole, or a broomstick (anciently the thyrsus).  They lead the dance, she
with a systrum or rattle, he with wand, the people falling in behind
them, dancing three times round the altar.  Then the candle game is
played.

Cakes and wine.

Great Rite if possible.

Dances and games.


 Winter Solstice

Form circle in usual manner, invoking the Mighty Ones.

The Cauldron of Cerridwen is placed in the circle at the south wreathed
with holly, ivy, and mistletoe, with fire lighted within it.  There
should be no other light except for the candles on the altar and about
the circle.

After all are purified, the Moon should be drawn down.

Then the High Priestess stands behind the Cauldron in pentacle position,
symbolizing the rebirth of the sun.  The people, man and woman
alternately, stand round the circle.  The Magus stands facing the High
Priestess with a bundle of torches, or candles, and the book of words of
the incantation.  One of the officers stands beside him with a lighted
candle, so that he may have light to read by.

The people begin to slowly move round the circle sunwise.  As each
passes him the Magus lights his candle or torch from the fire in the
Cauldron, which may be simply a candle, till all have lighted candles or


torches.  Then the people dance round slowly as he reads the
incantation.  (A real fire must now be kindled in the Cauldron.)

Queen of the Moon, Queen of the Sun. Queen of the Heavens, Queen of the
Stars.

Queen of the Waters, Queen of the Earth. Who ordained to us the child of
promise:

It is the Great Mother who gives birth to him, He is the Lord of Life
who is born again, Darkness and tears are set behind,And the star of
guidance comes up early.

Golden sun of hill and mountain illumine the land, illumine the world,
illumine the seas, illumine the rivers,Grief be laid, and joy be raised.

Blessed be the Great Mother, Without beginning, without ending, To
everlasting, to eternity, I O. Evohe, Blessed be."

The dance commences slowly, in rhythm with the chant, all taking up the
call "I. O. Blessed be."  The Priestess joins dance and leads them with
a quicker rhythm.  The cauldron with burning fire is pushed so that the
dancers leap or step over it, in couples.  Whichever couple is passing
it as it goes out, should be well-purified, three times each, and may
pay any amusing forfeit as the High Priestess may ordain.  Sometimes the
cauldron is relighted several times for this purpose.

 C.5 The Eightfold Path or Ways. (1957)

1. Meditation or concentration, actually by the firm knowledge that you
can and will succeed -- forming a clear picture in your mind or your
requirements.

2. Trance states, Clairvoyance, Projection of the Astral etc.

3. Drugs, Wine, Incense.

4. Dance, Performing Rites with a purpose.

5. Chants, Spells etc.

6. Blood control (Cords etc), Breath control.

7. Scourge

8. The Great Rite

N.B.

The great thing is to combine as many of these paths into the one
operation.  No 1 must be in all -- for if you have no clear picture of
what you wish and no certainty you will not succeed -- 'tis useless.  No


2 can be combined with this easily.  Nos 3, 4, and 5 are all good
preliminaries- also 6 and 7; but No 3 is dangerous and therefore if
possible should be avoided, except for incense, which is harmless if too
much is not used.

The best combination is Nos. 1, 4, 5 and 7, for small purposes, with no
8 if great force is necessary.  Also a combination of 1, 6 and 7 is good
if more can not be done; this if properly performed leads to No. 2.

 C.6.  The First-Degree Initiation (1957)

Draw Circle with Magic Sword or Athame.

Sprinkle with Exorcised Water.

Go round Circle with Magic Sword or Athame, Saying, "I conjure thee, O
Circle of Power, that thou beest as a Boundary and a Protection to
contain the magic power which I will raise within thy bounds.  So do I
bless thee, in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos."

Go round, saying at East, South, West, and North, "I summon, stir, and
call thee up, ye Mighty Ones of the East (South, West, North), to
witness the rites and to guard the circle."

Magus draws down Moon on High Priestess.

Read Charge, then say, "O thou who standest on the threshold between the
pleasant world of men and the dread domains of the lords of the outer
spaces, hast thou the courage to make the assay?" (Place point of the
Magic Sword or Athame to Postulant's heart.) "For I say verily it were
better to rush on my blade and perish than to make the attempt with fear
in thy heart."

Postulant: "I have two perfect words: perfect love, and perfect trust."

Say, "All who have are doubly welcome."

Entering position: "I give you a third to pass you through this dread
door."  Gives it [kiss].

Lead Postulant sunwise to south of altar, and say, "O thou who hast
declared intent to become one of us, hear then that which thou must know
to do.  Single is the race of men and of Gods; from a single source we
both draw breath, but a difference of power in everything keeps us
apart, for we are as nothing, but the Gods stay forever.  Yet we can, in
greatness of minds, be like the Gods, though we know not to what goal by
day or in the night Fate has written that we shall run.  Beyond all seas
and Earth's la st boundaries, beyond the Spring of night and the
Heavens' vast expanse, there lies a majesty which is the domain of the
Gods.  Thou who would pass through the Gates of Night and Day to that
sweet place, which is between the worlds of men and the domains of the
Lords of the outer spaces, know that unless there is truth in thy heart,


thy every effort is doomed to failure.  HEAR THEN THE LAW: that thou
lovest all things in nature; that thou shalt suffer no person to be
harmed by thy hands or in thy mind; that thou walkest humbly in the ways
of men and the ways of the Gods.  Also it is the law that contentment
thou shalt learn, through suffering, and from long years and from
nobility of mind and of purpose, FOR THE WISE NEVER GROW OLD.  Their
minds are nourished by living in the daylight of the Gods, and if among
the vulgar some discoveries should arise concerning some maxims of thy
belief in the Gods, so do thou, for the most part, keep silent.  For
there is a great risk that thou mayest straightway vomit up th at which
thou hast not digested, and when someone shall say to thee, "Thou
knowest naught," and it bites thee not, then knowest thou that thou hast
begun the work. And as sheep do not bring their food to the shepherd to
show how much they have eaten, but digesting inwardly their provender,
bear outwardly wool and milk, even so, do not thou display the maxims to
the vulgar, but rather the works that flow when they are digested.  Now
there is the ordeal." [This speech was added after about 1960.]

Tie cord around Postulant's right ankle, leaving ends free; say, "Feet
neither bound nor free."

Leading postulant, proclaim at four quarters, "Take heed, ye Lords of
the Watchtowers of the East (South, West, North), that (name) is
properly prepared to be made a priestess and a witch."

Three times round the Circle with Dance step and chant.

Place Postulant in East; say, "Kneel."

Postulant kneels.

Strike eleven knells on bell; say, "Rise. In other religions the
postulant kneels while the priest towers above him, but in the Art
Magical we are taught to be humble, and so we kneel to welcome them, and
we say:

"Blessed be the feet that have brought you in these ways [kiss];

"Blessed be the knees that shall kneel at the sacred altar [kiss];

"Blessed be thy womb (or organ of generation), without which we would
not be [kiss];

"Blessed be thy breasts, erected in beauty and in strength [kiss];

"Blessed be thy lips, which shall utter the sacred names [kiss].

"Before ye are sworn, art willing to pass the ordeal and be purified?"

Postulant "I am."

Take measure: height (tie knot); around head (tie knot); around heart


(tie knot); around hips (tie knot).  Prick postulant's thumb; catch
blood on measure. Place measure on altar.  Have postulant kneel, tie
postulant's feet together, and secure cable tow to altar.  Three strokes
on bell.  Say, "Art ready to swear that thou wilt always be true to the
Art?"

Postulant "I am."

Strike seven times on bell and say, "Thou must first be purified."
Scourge 3, 7, 9, 21.

Say, "Ye have bravely passed the test.  Art always ready to help,
protect, and defend thy brothers and sisters of the Art?"

Postulant "I am."

"Then say after me:  I, (name), in the presence of the mighty ones of
the outer spaces, do of my own free will most solemnly swear that I will
ever keep secret and never reveal the secrets of the Art, except it be
to a proper person, properly prepared, within such a circle as I am in
now, and that I will never deny the Secrets to such a person if they be
vouched for by a brother or Sister of the Art.  All this I swear by my
hopes of a future life, and may my weapons turn against me if I break
this my solemn oath."

Loosen cords from ankles and from altar, and remove blindfold; assist to
 rise.

 "I hereby sign thee with the triple sign [the point-down triangle
 formed by touching the genitals, the right breast, the left breast, and
 the genitals again.] I consecrate thee with oil. I consecrate thee with
 wine. I consecrate thee with my lips, Priest (Priestess) and Witch."

 Remove Cords [kiss].

 "I now present to you the working tools.  First the magic sword.  With
 this, as with the athame, thou canst form all magic circles, dominate,
 subdue, and punish all rebellious spirits and demons, and even persuade
 angels and good spirits.  With this in your hand, you are ruler of the
 circle." [kiss]

 "Next I present to you the athame.  This is the true witches' weapon,
 and has all the powers of the magic sword." [kiss]

 "Next I present the white-handled knife.  Its use is to form all
 instruments used in the Art.  It can only be used in a magic circle."
 [kiss]

 "Next I present the wand.  Its use is to call up and control certain
 angels and genie to whom it would not be meet to use the sword or
 athame." [kiss]



 "Next I present the pentacle.  This is for the purpose of calling up
 the appropriate spirits." [kiss]

 "Next I present the censer of incense. This is used to encourage and
 welcome good spirits, and to banish evil spirits." [kiss]

 "Next I present the scourge.  This is a sign of power and domination.
 It is also used to cause purification and enlightenment, for it is
 written, `To learn you must suffer and be purified.' [kiss]

 Art willing to suffer to learn?"

 Postulant: "I am."

 "Next and lastly I present the cords.  They are of use to bind the
 sigils of the art, also the material basis.  Also they are necessary in
 the oath." [kiss]

 "I now salute you in the names of Aradia and Cernunnos, Newly made
 Priestess and Witch."

 Lead round and proclaim to four quarters, "Hear, ye Mighty Ones, (name)
 has been consecrated a priestess of the Goddess."

 Now present new Witch to coven members.  All should kiss and hug new
 Witch as welcome into membership.

 To close circle proclaim to four quarters, "Ye Mighty Ones of the East
 (South, West, North), I thank you for attending and, ere ye depart for
 your lovely realms, I say hail and farewell."

  C.7.  The Second-Degree Initiation (1957)

  Form Circle in usual manner, invoking the Mighty Ones at the Four
 Quarters.  The Initiate should be properly prepared and bound with the
 Cords.

 All are purified, including Initiate.

 Circle once, proclaiming at the Four Quarters: "Hear Ye Mighty Ones, .
 . . (N), a duly consecrated Priestess and Witch is now properly
 prepared to be made a High Priest and Magus (High Priestess and Witch
 Queen)."

 Circle three times, with dance step and chant.

 Initiate then kneels before the Altar and is secured with the Cords.

 Priestess or Magus: "To attain to this sublime Degree it is necessary
 to suffer and be purified. Art willing to suffer to learn?"

 Initiate: "I am."


 Priestess or Magus: "I purify thee to take this great oath rightly".

 Strike three strokes upon the bell. Scourge 3, 7, 9, 21. "I now give
 thee a new name: . . ." [kiss]

 "Repeat thy new name after me, saying, `I, . . ., swear, upon my
 mother's womb and by mine honour among men and my brothers and sisters
 of the Art, that I will never reveal to any at all any of the secrets
 of the Art, except it be to a worthy person, properly prepared, in the
 center of a Magic Circle such as I am now in. This I swear by my hopes
 of salvation, my past lives and my hopes of future ones to come and I
 devote myself and my measure to utter destruction if I break this my
 solemn Oath.'"

 Kneel.

 Place Left Hand under Initiate's Knee and Right Hand on Head, thus
 forming Magic Link, saying: "I will all my power into thee."

 WILL.

 Loose, assist to rise.

 Consecrate: "I consecrate thee with oil [on genitals, right breast,
 left hip, right hip, left breast, genitals), I consecrate thee with
 wine, I consecrate thee with my lips, High Priest and Magus (High
 Priestess and Witch Queen)." Loose remaining cords. [kiss]

 "You will now use the working tools in turn, "First the Magic Sword
 (Form Circle) [kiss]

 "Second the Athame. (Form Circle) [kiss]

 "Third the White-Handled Knife  (use) [kiss] "Fourth the Wand.  (Wave
 to 4 Quarters) [kiss]

 "Fifth the Pentacle. (Show to 4 Quarters) [kiss]

 "Sixth the Censer.  (Circle, cense) [kiss]

 "Seventh the Cords.  (Use) [kiss]

 "Eighth the scourge: for learn, in witchcraft you must ever give as you
 receive, but ever triple.  So where I gave thee 3, return 9; where I
 gave 7, return 21; where I gave 9, return 27; where I gave 21, return
 63." (Use, 9, 21, 27, 63; i.e., 120 in all [kiss])

 "Thou hast obeyed the law.  But mark well, when thou receivest good, so
 equally art bound to return good threefold."

 The Priestess or Magus is then loosed from the cords and says: "Having
 learned thus far, you must know why the Wicca are called the Hidden
 Children of the Goddess".

 Then the Legend of the Goddess is either read or acted out.  If it is
 possible to act it out, the new Initiate may take one of the parts.
 One of the Coven should act as Narrator, and another as Guardian of the
 Portal. The Priestess, or another woman, may act the part of the
 Goddess, and the Magus, or another man, may act the part of the God.
 The Priestess -- or whoever is taking the part of the Goddess -- takes
 off her necklace and lays it on the Altar.  Then she goes outside the
 circle and is dressed in a veil and jewellery.  The Magus -- or whoever
 is taking the part of the God -- is invested with a horned crown and
 girds on a sword, which he draws and stands in the God position with
 sword and scourge, by the altar.

Narrator: "In ancient times our Lord, the Horned One, was, as he still
is, the Consoler, the Comforter; but men knew him as the Dread Lord of
Shadows -- lonely, stern, and hard.  Now our Lady the Goddess had never
loved, but she would solve all mysteries, even the mystery of Death --
and so she journeyed to the Nether Lands. The Guardians of the Portals
challenged her:"

(The Priestess -- or whoever is taking the part of the Goddess  --
advances  to the side of the Circle. Whoever is taking the part of the
Guardian of the Portal challenges her with the Sword or Athame.)

Narrator: "`Strip off thy garments, lay aside thy jewels, for naught may
ye bring with ye into this our land'.  So she laid down her garments and
her jewels and was bound, as are all who enter the realms of Death the
Mighty One".

(The Priestess takes off the veil and the jewellery and lays them down
outside the Circle.  The Guardian of the Portal binds her with the Cords
and brings her inside the Circle.)

Narrator: "Such was her beauty that Death himself knelt and laid his
sword and crown at her feet and kissed her feet."

(The Magus -- or whoever is playing the part of the God -- comes forward
and lays the Horned Crown and the Sword at the Priestess's feet and
kisses her feet)

Narrator: "Saying, `Blessed be thy feet that have brought thee in these
ways.  Abide with me, but let me place my cold hand on thy heart'. And
she replied, `I love thee not. Why dost thou cause all things that I
love and take delight in to fade and die?' `Lady,' replied Death, `'Tis
Age and Fate, against which I am helpless.  Age causes all things to
wither; but when men die at the end of time, I give them rest and peace
and strength, so that they may return. But you, you are lovely. Return
not; abide with me.' But she answered, `I love thee not.'  Then said
Death, `An you receive not my hand on your heart, you must receive
Death's scourge.'"

(The Magus rises and takes up the Scourge from the Altar.)

Narrator:  "`It is fate, better so,' she said, and she knelt."

(The Priestess kneels before the altar, and the Magus uses the scourge
3, 7, 9, 21.)

Narrator:  "And Death scourged her tenderly, and she cried, `I feel the
pangs of love'. And Death raised her, and said, `Blessed be,' and he
gave her the Fivefold Kiss, saying, `Thus only may you attain to joy and
knowledge'."

(The Magus raises the Priestess, gives her the Fivefold Kiss and unties
the cords)

Narrator: "And he taught her all the Mysteries and gave her the
necklace, which is the Circle of Rebirth."

(The Magus takes the Priestess's necklace from the Altar and replaces it
about her neck.  The Priestess takes up the Sword and the Horned Crown
from the floor, where the Magus placed them, and gives them back to him.
Then he stands as before by the Altar, in the position of the God, and
she stands by his side in the pentacle position, as Goddess)

Narrator: "And she taught him the mystery of the sacred cup, which is
the cauldron of rebirth.  They loved and were one; and he taught her all
the Magics.  For there be three great mysteries in the life of man --
love, death, and resurrection in a new body -- and magic controls them
all.  To fulfill love you must return at the same time and place as the
loved one, and you must meet and know and remember and love them again.
But to be reborn you must die and be ready for a new body; to die you
must be born; without love you may not be born -- and these be all the
magics.  And our Goddess ever inclineth to love and mirth and happiness,
and guardeth and cheriseth Her hidden children in life; and in death she
teacheth the way to have communion, and even in this world She teacheth
them the Mystery of the Magic Circle, which is placed between the
worlds."

The Priestess or Magus then replaces the Sword, Crown, Scourge, etc.,
upon the Altar, and taking the new Initiate by the hand and holding the
Athame in the other, passes once round the Circle, proclaiming at the
Four Quarters, "Hear, Ye Mighty Ones, . . . hath been duly consecrated
High Priest and Magus (or High Priestess and Witch Queen)."

 C.8.  The Third-Degree Initiation (1957)

Magus gives Fivefold Kiss.

Magus: "Ere we proceed with this sublime degree, I must beg purification
at thy hands."

High Priestess binds Magus and ties him down to the altar.  She
circumambulates three times, and scourges Magus with three, seven, nine,
and 21 strokes.  She then unbinds him and helps him to his feet.

Magus now binds the High Priestess and ties her down to the altar. He
circumambulates, proclaiming to the four quarters, "Hear, ye mighty
Ones, the twice consecrate and Holy (name), High Priestess and Witch
Queen, is properly prepared and will now proceed to erect the Sacred
Altar."

Magus scourges High Priestess with three, seven, nine, and 21 strokes.

Magus kisses her feet. "Ere I dare proceed with this sublime degree, I
must again beg purification at thy hands."

She binds and scourges him.

Note: if High Priestess has not performed this rite before, he says,
"Here I reveal to you a great mystery."  [Kneel and place couch in
position so as to face north.]

        Assist me to build
                As the Mighty One willed,
        An Altar of praise,
                From beginning of days,
        Thus doth it lie,
                Twixt the points of the sky,
        For thus it was placed
                When the Goddess embraced
        The Horned One, Her Lord,
                Who taught her the word,

[Priestess lies down in such a way that her vagina is approximately at
the center of the circle]

        Which quickened the womb,
                And conquered the Tomb.
        Be thus as of yore,
                The Shrine we adore,            [kiss]
        The feast without fail,
                The life-giving Grail,          [kiss]
        Before it uprear
                The Miraculous Spear,
        And invoke in this sign
                The Goddess divine.                     [kiss]

Invoke: "Thou who at moon of night doth reign,
                        Queen of the starry realm above,
                `Not unto Thee may we attain
                        Unless Thine Image be of Love.'         [kiss]

                By moon-rays silver shaft of power,
                        By green leaf breaking from the bud,
                By seed that springeth into flower,
                        By life that courseth in the blood.     [kiss]

                By rushing wind and leaping flame,
                        By flowing water and green earth,
                Pour us the wine of our desire
                        From out Thy Cauldron of Rebirth.        [kiss]

                Here may we see in vision clear
                        The Secret Strange unveiled at length,
                The wondrous Twin-Pillars rear
                        Erect in Beauty and in Strength.       [kiss breas
ts]

                 Altar of Mysteries manifold,
                        The Sacred Circle's central point,
                  Thus do I sign thee as of old,
                        With kisses of my lips anoint.

(Eightfold Kiss: 3 points, Lips, 2 Breasts and back to lips, & 5
points*, with oil, wine, & kisses)

                Open for me the Secret Way,
                        The pathway of intelligence,
                Between the Gates of Night and Day,
                        Beyond the bounds of time and sense.

                Behold the Mystery aright,
                        The Five True Points of Fellowship,
                Here where the Lance and Grail unite,
                        And feet and knees and breast and lips."

Magus and High Priestess: "Encourage our hearts, Let thy Light
crystallize itself in our blood, fulfilling us of Resurrection, for
there is no part of us that is not of the Gods."

                (Exchange Names.)

 C.9.  The Witches' Chant or Rune (1957)

Darksome night and Shining Moon,
        East, then South, then West, then North,
Harken to the Witches Rune:
        Here come I to call thee forth.

Earth and Water, Air and Fire,
        Wand and Pentacle and Sword,
Work ye unto my desire,
        Harken ye unto my word.

Cords and Censer, Scourge and knife,
        Powers of the Witches Blade,
Waken all ye into life,
        Come ye as the Charm is made:

Queen of Heaven, Queen of Hell,
        Horned Hunter of the Night,
Lend your power unto the Spell,
        Work my will by Magic Rite.

If chant is used to reinforce a work already begun, end with this:

By all the power of land and sea, by all the might of moon and sun,

What is my will- "So mote it be,"What I do say- "It shall be done."

 C.10. Consecrating Tools (1957)

(Note: if possible lay any new weapon touching an already consecrated
one, Sword to sword, Athame to Athame, etc.)

[1] Prepare Circle and purify.  All tools must be consecrated by a man
and a woman, both as naked as drawn swords; they must be purified,
clean, and properly prepared.

[2] Place tool on pentacle on altar.  Magus sprinkles it with salt and
water.  Witch passes it through smoke of incense, replaces it on
pentacle.   Touching with already consecrated weapon, they say the First
Conjuration.

[2a]  For sword or athame, say "I conjure thee, O Sword (or Athame) of
Steel, that thou servest me for a strength and a defence in all magical
operations, against all mine enemies, visible and invisible, in the
names of Aradia and Cernunnos.  I conjure thee anew by the Holy Names
Aradia and Cernunnos, that thou servest me for a protection in all
adversities, so aid me."

[2b]  For any other tool, say, "Aradia and Cernunnos, deign to bless and
to consecrate this [tool], that it may obtain necessary virtue through
thee for all acts of love and Beauty."

[3] Again they sprinkle and cense, and say the Second Conjuration:

[3a]  For sword or athame, say, "I conjure thee, O Sword [Athame] of
Steel, by the Great Gods and the Gentle Goddesses, by the virtue of the
Heavens, of the Stars, of the Spirits who preside over them, that thou
mayest receive such virtues that I may obtain the end that I desire in
all things wherein I shall use thee, by the power of Aradia and
Cernunnos."

[3b] For any other tool, say, "Aradia and Cernunnos, bless this
instrument prepared in thine honour."  (For the scourge or cords, add,
"That it may only serve for a good use and end, and to thy Glory.")

[4] All instruments when consecrated should be presented to their User
by giving the [point-down triangle] sign salute (if they are working in
the 1st degree, or the sign of the higher degree if they are working
that.)

[5] Then the one who is not the owner should give the Fivefold Kiss to
the owner.  For the final kiss, the tool should be placed between the
breasts, and the two workers should embrace for as long as they feel
like, it being held in place by their bodies.  The new owner should use
it immediately, i.e., cast (trace) Circle with Sword or Athame, wave
wand to 4 quarters, cut something with white-handled knife, etc.  Cords
and scourge should be used at once.

The tool should be kept in as close connection as possible to the naked
body for at least a month, i.e., kept under pillow, etc.  When not in
use, all tools and weapons should be put away in a secret place; and it
is good that this should be near your sleeping place, and that you
handle them each night before retiring.  Do not allow anyone to touch or
handle any of your tools until they are thoroughly impregnated with your
aura; say, six months or as near as possible.  But a couple working
together may own the same tools, which will be impregnated with the aura
of both.

 D.1 The Old Laws (1961)

[A] The Law was made and Ardane of old. The law was made for the Wicca,
to advise and help in their troubles. The Wicca should give due worship
to the Gods and obey their will, which they Ardane, for it was made for
the good of the Wicca, As the [5] Wicca's worship is good for the Gods,
For the Gods love the Wicca. As a man loveth a woman, by mastering her,
so the Wicca should love the Gods, by being mastered by them. And it is
necessary that the Circle, which is the Temple of the Gods, should be
truly cast and purified, that it [10] may be a fit place for the Gods to
enter. And the Wicca should be properly prepared and purified, to enter
into the presence of the Gods. With love and worship in their hearts
they shall raise power from their bodies to give power to the Gods, as
has been taught us of old, [15] For in this way only may man have
communion with the Gods, for the Gods cannot help man without the help
of men.

[B] And the High Priestess shall rule her Coven as representative of the
Goddess, and the High Priest shall support her as the representative of
the God, And the High Priestess shall choose whom she [20] will, if he
have sufficient rank, to be her High Priest), For the God himself,
kissed her feet in the fivefold salute, laying his power at the feet of
the Goddess, because of her youth and beauty, her sweetness and
kindness, her wisdom and Justice, her humility and generosity.  So he
resigned his lordship to her. But the Priestess should [25] ever mind
that all power comes from him. It is only lent when it is used wisely
and justly. And the greatest virtue of a High Priestess is that she
recognizes that youth is necessary to the representative of the Goddess,
so that she will retire gracefully in favour of a younger woman, Should
the Coven so decide in Council,  For the true [30] High Priestess
realizes that gracefully surrendering pride of place is one of the
greatest of virtues, and t hat thereby she will return to that pride of
place in another life, with greater power and beauty.

[C] In the days when Witchdom extended far, we were free and worshipped
in All their Greatest Temples,  but in these unhappy times [35] we must
hold our sacred mysteries in secret. So it be Ardane, that none but the
Wicca may see our mysteries, for our enemies are many, And torture
looseth the tongues of many. It be Ardane that each Coven shall not know
where the next Coven bide, or who its members are, save the Priest and
Priestess, [40] That there shall be no communication between them, save
by the Messenger of the Gods, or the Summoner. Only if it be safe, may
the Covens meet, in some safe place, for the great festivals. And while
there, none shall say whence they come, or give their true names, to the
end that, if any are tortured, in their agony, they can [45] not tell if
they know not.  So it be Ardane that no one may tell any not of the
Craft who be of the Wicca, nor give any names, or where they bide, or in
any way tell anything which can betray any to our foes, nor may they
tell where the Covenstead be, or where is the Covendom, [50] or where be
the meeting s or that there have been meetings. And if any break these
laws, even under torture, The Curse of the Goddess shall be upon them,
so they never reborn on earth, And may they remain where they belong, in
the Hell of the Christians.

[D] Let each High Priestess govern her Coven with Justice and [55] love,
with the help of the advice of the elders, always heeding the advice of
the Messenger of the Gods, if he cometh. She will heed all complaints of
brothers, and strive to settle all differences among them, but it must
be recognized that there be people who will ever strive to force others
to do as they will. [60] They are not necessarily evil, and they often
do have good ideas, and such ideas should be talked over in council. And
if they will not agree with their brothers, or if they say, "I will not
work under this High Priestess," it hath always been the old law to be
convenient for the brethren, and to void disputes, any of the Third [65]
may claim to found a new Coven because they live over a league from the
Covenstead, or are about to do so. Anyone living within the Covendom
wishing to form a new Coven, to avoid strife, shall tell the Elders of
his intention and on the instant void his dwelling and remove to the new
Covendom. Members of the old Coven may join the New one when it be
formed, but if they do, must utterly void the old Coven. The Elders of
the New and the Old Covens should meet in peace and brotherly love, to
decide the new boundaries. Those of the Craft who dwell outside both
Covendoms may join either indifferent, but not both, though all may, if
the Elders [75] agree, meet for the Great Festivals, if it be truly in
peace and brotherly love. But splitting the coven oft means strife, so
for this reason these laws were  made of old,  And may the curse of the
Goddess be on any who disregard them.  So be it ardane.

[E] If you would Keep a book let it be in your own hand of write. [80]
Let brothers and sisters copy what they will, but never let the book out
of your hands, and never keep the writings of another, for if it be
found in their hand of write, they well may be taken and enjoined. Each
should guard his own writings and destroy it whenever danger threatens.
Learn as much as you may by heart, and when danger is [85] past, rewrite
your book an it be safe. For this reason, if any die, destroy their book
if they have  not been able to, for an it be found, 'tis clear proof
against them, And our oppressors well know, "Ye may not be a witch
alone" So all their kin and friends be in danger of torture.  So ever
destroy anything not necessary. [90] If your book be found on you. 'tis
clear proof against you alone.  You may be enjoined.  Keep all thoughts
of the Craft from your mind.  Say you had bad dreams; a devil caused you
to write it without your knowledge.  Think to yourself, "I know nothing.
I remember nothing.  I have forgotten everything."  Drive this [95] into
your mind.  If the torture be too great to bear, say, "I will confess.
I cannot bear this torture.  What do you want me to say?  Tell me and I
will say it."  If they try to make you  speak of the brotherhood, Do
NOT, but if they try to make you speak of [100] impossibilities, such as
flying through the air, consorting with the Christian Devil, or
sacrificing children, or eating men's flesh, to obtain relief from
torture, say, "I had an evil dream.  I was not myself.  I was crazed."
Not all Magistrates are bad. If there [105] be an excuse they may show
mercy.  If you have confessed aught, deny it afterwards; say you babbled
under torture, you knew not what you did or said.  If you are condemned,
fear not.  The Brotherhood is powerful.  They may help you to escape, if
you stand steadfast, but if you betray aught, there is no hope for you,
in this [110] life, or in that which is to come.  Be sure, if steadfast
you go to the pyre, Dwale will reach you.  You will feel naught.  You go
but to o Death and what lies beyond, the ecstasy of the Goddess.

[F] 'Tis probable that before you are enjoined, Dwale will reach you.
[115] Always remember that Christians fear much that any die under
torture.  At the first sign of swoon, they cause it to be stopped, and
blame the tormenters.  For that reason, the tormenters themselves are
apt to feign to torment, but do not, so it is best not to die at first.
If Dwale reaches you, 'tis a sign that you have a friend somewhere.
[120] You may be helped to escape, so despair not. If the worst comes,
and you go to the pyre, wait till the flames and smoke spring up, bend
your head over, and breath in with long breaths. You choke and die
swiftly, and wake in the arms of the Goddess.

[G] To void discovery, let the working tools [125] be as ordinary things
that any may have in their houses.  Let the Pentacles be of wax, so they
may be broken at once. Have no sword unless your rank allows you one.
Have no names or signs on anything.  Write the names and signs on them
in ink before consecrating them and wash it off immediately after.  Do
not Bigrave them, [130] lest they cause discovery.  Let the colour of
the hilts tell which is which.

[H] Ever remember, ye are the Hidden Children of the Gods.  So never do
anything to disgrace them. Never boast, Never threaten, Never say you
would wish ill to anyone.  If you or any not in the Circle speak of the
Craft, [135] say, "Speak not to me of such. It frightens me.  'Tis evil
luck to speak of it." For this reason: the Christians have spies
everywhere. These speak as if they were well affected, as if they would
come to Meetings, saying, "My mother used to go to worship the Old Ones.
I would that I could go myself."*  To these ever deny all knowledge.
[140] But to others ever say, "'Tis foolish men talk of witches flying
through the air; to do so they must be light as thistledown," and "Men
say that witches all be bleared-eyed old crones, so what pleasure can
there be in witch meetings such as folk talk on?"  Say, "Many wise men
now say there be no such creatures." Ever [145] make it a jest, and in
some future time, perhaps the persecution will die, and we may worship
safely again.  Let us all pray for that happy day.

[I] May the blessings of the Goddess and the God be on all who keep
these laws which are Ardane.

[J] If the Craft hath any Appanage, let all brothers guard it, and help
to keep it clear and good for the Craft, and let all justly guard all
monies of the Craft. But if some brothers truly wrought it, 'tis right
that they have their pay, an it be just, an this be not taking [5] money
for the use of the Art, but for good and honest work.  And even the
Christians say, "A labourer is worthy of his hire."  But if any brotherswi
llingly for the good of the craft without pay, 'tis but to their
greater honour.  So it be Ardane.

[K] If there be any disputes or quarrels among the brethren, the [10]
High Priestess shall straight convene the Elders and enquire into the
matter, and they shall hear both sides, first alone, then together, and
they shall decide justly, not favouring the one side or the other, ever
recognizing that there be people who can never agree to work under
others, but at the same time there be some people who [15] cannot rule
justly.  To those who ever must be chief, there is one answer, "Void the
Coven and seek an other, or make a Coven of your own, taking with you
those who will to go."  To those who cannot rule justly, the answer be,
"Those who cannot bear your rule will leave you," for none may come to
meetings with those with whom they are at [20] variance;  so, an either
cannot agree, get hence, for the Craft must ever survive. So it be
Ardane.

[L] In the olden days when we had power, we could use our Arts against any
 who ill-treated any of the Brotherhood, but in these evil times, we may n
ot do so, for our enemies have devised a burning [25] pit of everlasting f
ire, into which they say their God casteth all the people who worship him,
 except it be the very few who are released by their priests' spells and M
asses, and this be chiefly by giving money and rich gifts to receive his f
avour, for their Alther Greatest God [Greatest God of all] is ever i
n need of Money. [30] But as our Gods need our aid to make fertility for m
en and crops, So the God of the Christians is ever in need of man's help t
o search out and destroy us.
Their priests tell them that any who get our help or our cures are damned
to the Hell forever, so men be mad for the terror of it. But they make men
 [35] believe that they may scape this hell if they give victims to the to
rmenters.  So for this reason all be forever spying, thinking, "An I can b
ut catch one of the Wicca I will scape this fiery pit." But we have our hi
dels, and men searching long and not finding say, "there be none, or if th
ey be, they be in a far country."
[40] But when one of our oppressors die, or even be sick, ever is the cry,
 "This be Witches Malice," and the hunt is up again.  And though they slay
 ten of their people to one of ours, still they care not; they have many t
housands, while we are few indeed.  So it is Ardane that none shall use th
e Art in any way to do ill [45] to any, howevermuch they have injured us.
 And for long we have obeyed this law, "Harm none" and nowtimes many belie
ve we exist not.  So it be Ardane that this law shall still continue
to help us in our plight.  No one, however great an injury or injustice th
ey receive, may use the Art in any to do ill or harm any.  [50] But they m
ay, after great consultations with all, use the Art to prevent or restrain
 Christians from harming us and others, but only to let or constrain them
and never to punish, to this end.  Men say, "Such an one is a mighty searc
her out and persecutor of Old Women whom he deemeth to be  Witches, [55] a
nd none hath done him Skith [harm], so this be proof they cannot, o
r more truly, that there be none," For all know full well that so many fol
k have died because someone had a grudge against them, or were persecuted
because they had money or goods to seize, or because they had none to brib
e the searchers.  And many have died [60] because they were scolding old w
omen, so much so that men now say that only old women are witches, and thi
s be to our advantage, and turns suspicion away from us.
In England 'tis now many a year since a witch hath died the death,
but any misuse of the power might raise the Persecution again; so never br
eak this law, [65] however much you are tempted, and never consent to its
being broken.  If you know it is being broken in the least, you must work
strongly against it, and any High Priestess or High Priest who consents to
 it must be immediately deposed, for 'tis the blood of the Brethren they e
ndanger.  Do good, an it be safe, and only if [70] it be safe, for any tal
k may endanger us.

[M] And strictly keep to the Old Law, never accept money for the use of
the art.  It is Christian priests and sorcerers who accept money for the
use of their Arts, and they sell Dwale and evil love spells and pardons
to let men scape from their sins. [75] Be not as these. Be not as these.
If you accept not money, you will be free of temptation to use the Art
for evil causes.

[N] You may use the Art for your own advantage, or for the advantage of
the Craft, only if you be sure you harm none.  But ever let the Coven
debate the matter at length.  Only if all are satisfied that none may be
harmed [80] may the Art be used.  If it is not possible to achieve your
ends one way without harming any, perchance the aim may be achieved by
acting in a different way, so as to harm none.  May the Curse of the
Goddess be on any who breach this law.  So it be Aredane.

[O] 'Tis adjudged lawful an anyone need a house or land, an none will
[85] sell, to incline the owner's mind to be willing to sell, provided
it harmeth him not in any way, and that the full worth is paid, without
haggling.  Never bargain or cheapen anything which you buy by the Art.
So it be Ardane.

[P] It is the Old Law and the most important of all Laws [90] that no
one may do or say anything which will endanger any of the Craft, or
bring them in contact with the law of the land, or the Law of the Church
or any of our persecutors.  In any disputes between the brethren, no one
may invoke any laws but those of the Craft, or any Tribunal but that of
the Priestess and the Priest and the [95] Elders. And may the Curse of
the Goddess be on any who so do. So it be Ardane.

[Q] It is not forbidden to say as Christians do, "There be Witchcraft in
the Land," because our oppressors of old made it Heresy not to believe
in Witchcraft, and so a crime to deny it, which thereby put [100] you
under suspicion.  But ever say "I know not of it here, perchance they
may be, but afar off. I know not where."  But ever speak so you cause
others to doubt they be as they are.  Always speak of them as old
crones, consorting with the Devil and riding through the air. But ever
say, "But how may men ride through the air an they be not [105] as light
as thistledown?" But the curse of the Goddess be on any who cast any
suspicion on any of the Brotherhood, or speaks of any real meeting
place, or where any bide. So it be Ardane. [R] Let the Craft keep books
with the names of all Herbs which are good for man, and all cures, that
all may learn.  But keep [110] another book with all the Banes [poisons]
and Apies. and let only the elders and trustworthy people have this
knowledge. So it be Ardane. [S] And may the Blessings of the Gods be on
all who keep these Laws and the Curses of both God and Goddess be on all
who break them So it be Ardane. [The following two sections were added
after 1960.] [T] Remember the Art is the secret of the Gods and may only
be used in earnest and never for show or vainglory.  Magicians and
Christians may taunt us, saying, "You have no power.  Do magic before
our eyes.  Then only will we believe," seeking to cause us to betray our
Art before them.  Heed them not, for the Art is holy, and may only be
used in need.  And the curse of the Gods be on any who break this law.
[U] It ever be the way with women, and with men also, that they ever
seek new love, nor should we reprove them for this, but it may be found
to disadvantage the Craft, as so many a time it has happened that a High
Priest or High Priestess, impelled by love, hath departed with their
love; that is, they have left the coven.  Now, if a High Priestess
wishes to resign, she may do so in full Coven, and this resignation is
valid.  But if they should run off without resigning, who may know if
they may not return w within a few months?  So the law is, if a High
Priestess leaves her coven, but returns within the space of a year and a
day, then she shall be taken back, and all shall be as before.
Meanwhile, if she has a deputy, that deputy shall act as High Priestess
for as long as the High Priestess is away.  If she returns not at the
end of a year and a day, then shall the coven elect a new High
Priestess.  Unless there be a good reason to the contrary.  The person
who has done the work should re qp the benefit of the reward,  Maiden
and deputy of the High Priestess.

 D.2. The Verse Charge (1961)

I the Mother, darksome and divine,
Say to thee, Oh children mine
(All ye assembled at mine Shrine),
Mine the scourge and mine the kiss
The five-point star of love and bliss
Here I charge ye in this sign.       (Assume Goddess position.)

All ye assembled here tonight
Bow before my spirit bright
Aphrodite, Arianrhod, Lover of the Horned God,
Mighty Queen of Witchery and night

Astarte, Hecate, Ashtaroth, Dione,
(Morrigan, Etain, Nisene),
Diana, Brigid, Melusine,
Am I named of old by men, Artemis and Cerridwen,
Hell's dark mistress, Heaven's Queen.

(Whene'er trouble comes anoon)
All who would learn of me a Rune
Or would ask of me a boon, Meet ye in some secret glade
Dance my round in greenwood shade,
by the light of the full moon.

(In a place wild and lone)
With the comrades alone
Dance about my altar stone.
Work my holy Magistry,Ye who are fain of sorcery,
I bring ye secrets yet unknown.

(Whate'er troubles come to thee),
No more shall ye know slavery
Who give due worship unto me,
Who tread my round on Sabbat-night. Come ye all naked to the rite,
In token ye be truly free.

I teach the mystery of rebirth,
Keep ye my mysteries in mirth
Heart joined to heart, and lip to lip,
Five are the points of fellowship
That bring ye ecstasy on Earth.

I ask no offerings, do but bow,
No other law but love I know,
By naught but love I may be known,
All that liveth is mine own
From me they come, to me they go.

 D.3. Casting and Charging (1961)

[1]  Forming Circle.  Light candles.

1. Draw Circle with Magic Sword or Athame.

2. Sprinkle with consecrated water.

3. Cense.

4. Say, "I conjure thee, O Circle of Power, that thou be a Boundary and
a Protection and a meeting place between the world of men and the realms
of the Mighty Ones, A Guardian and a Protection that shall preserve and
contain the Power which we shall raise within thee, Wherefore do I Bless
and Consecrate thee."

5. Say "I summon, Stir, and Call Thee up, Ye Mighty Ones of the (East,
South, West, North) To witness the Rites and to guard the Circle."

[2]  Closing Circle.

Say, "Mighty Ones of the (East, South, West, North), I thank you for
attending, and ere you depart for your lovely realms, I say Hail and
Farewell."

[3]  Consecration of Water and Salt.

Touch water with Athame, saying, "I exorcise thee, O Creature of Water,
that thou cast out from thee all the impurities and uncleannesses of the
spirits of the World of Phantasm, In the names of Aradia and Cernunnos."

Touching Salt with Athame, say, "Blessings be upon this creature of
Salt.  Let all malignity and hindrance be cast forth hencefrom and let
all good enter herein.  Wherefore I bless thee that thou mayest aid me,
In the names of Aradia and Cernunnos."

[4]  Drawing Down the Moon.

"I invoke Thee and call upon Thee, Oh Mighty Mother of us All, Bringer
of all Fruitfulness. By Seed and Root, by Stem and Bud, by Leaf and
Flower and Fruit, by Life and Love, Do We invoke Thee to descend upon
the body of Thy servant and Priestess (name)."

High Priest and other men give Fivefold Kiss.  Women all bow.

 D.4.  Forming the Circle. (1961)

FORMING THE CIRCLE.

[1] Must have a man and a woman, properly prepared, i.e., naked.

[2] Mark a circle nine feet across on the floor with chalk, etc.  The
best way is to get a string.  Tie 2 loops four foot, six inches apart.
Put one loop over a nail or something in the center.  Put chalk in the
other and run it round.  If you can't make marks on the floor, put
furniture, etc., round to form it.  Have a table, etc., as an Altar,
with all tools, etc., on it.  Have a bowl of water, and some salt.

[3] Place Athame on the bowl of water.  Say, "I exorcise thee, O
creature of Water, that thou cast out from Thee all the impurities and
uncleannesses of the Spirits of the World of Phantasm in the name of
Aradia and Cernunnos.  But ever mind that Water purifies the body, but
the scourge purifies the soul."

[4] Then place Athame on the salt.  Say, "Blessings be upon this
creature of Salt.  Let all malignity and hindrance be cast forth
hencefrom, and let all good enter herein.  Wherefore I bless thee that
thou mayest aid me, in the name of Aradia and Cernunnos.

[5] Then trace Circle on the lines you have marked out, starting at the
East and returning to the East.  (Always go round the circle with your
Right hand to the Altar.  Never go Widdershins.)   Then put the Salt
into the water. and go round the circle again, sprinkling it to purify
it.  Then go round again censing it.  (Everyone in the circle must be
sprinkled and censed.)

[6] Then go to the East, Sword or Athame in hand.  Draw an invoking
pentacle in the Air, starting at the top and going to the lefthand
corner, saying, "I summon, and call thee up, O Ye Mighty ones of the
East, to guard the Circle and witness our rites."  Then holding the
point of sword or Athame upwards, do the same to the south, west, and
north, and return to the center, to the south of the Altar.

[7] Then each girl should bind her man,  hands behind back and cable Tow
to neck.  He should kneel at altar, and be scourged.  When all men are
thus "purified," they purify the girls in turn.  No one may be in the
circle without being thus purified.

[8] Then do whatever work wanted.

[9] When closing the Circle, the High Priestess, or whoever she tells to
do it, saying, "Hail, ye mighty ones of the East.  I thank you for
attending, and ere ye depart for your lovely realms, We say, Hail and
Farewell."

 Bibliography

These are books you should read in order to see the sources Gardner used
to create these rituals.

Crowley, Aleister.  Magick in Theory and Practice. Castle, n.d. [ca.
1930]

Gardner, Gerald B.  High Magic's Aid.  Michael Houghton, 1949.

------.  Witchcraft Today.  Jarrolds, 1954.

------.  The Meaning of Witchcraft.  Aquarian Press, 1959.

Glanvil, Joseph, and Henry More.  Saducismus Triumphatus: or, Full and
Plain Evidence Concerning Witches and Apparitions.  London: Lowndes, 3d
ed., 1689.  Scholar's Facsimiles, 1966.  One of Murray's major sources
of information.

Leland, Charles Godfrey.  Aradia: The Gospel of the Witches of Tuscany.
Scribner's, 1897.  Buckland Museum reprint, 1964.

Mathers, S. L. MacGregor, ed. and trans.  The Greater Key of Solomon.
De Laurence, Scott, 1914.

Murray, Margaret A.  The Witch-Cult in Western Europe.  Oxford
University Press, 1921.  Oxford paperback, 1962.

------.  The God of the Witches.  Oxford University Press, 1934.
Doubleday Anchor, 1960.

Regardie, Israel.  The Golden Dawn: An Account of the Teachings, Rites,
and Ceremonies of the Order of the Golden Dawn.  1937-1940.  Hazel
Hills, 2d ed., 1969.

* Gardner appended this paragraph to the Craft Laws in the early 1960s.

* Gardner appended this paragraph to the Craft Laws in the early 1960s.

* These are shown by a drawing to be: genitals, left foot, right knee,
left knee, right foot, and back to genitals.

* My Lady Epona points out that this is precisely what Charles Cardell
had claimed; that is, this paragraph is a response to Cardell, and so it
was probably inserted into the Craft Laws after the run-in with the
Cardells and Olive Green in 1959.  This again is an indication that
Gardner did not promulgate the Craft Laws as a document for the Book of
Shadows until about 1960, when Mr. Q was initiated.


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