Spells

Spells often conjure up images of witches round cauldrons or fairy tale characters - for example the Wicked Witch in the Wizard of Oz who is thwarted by the Good Witch of the North. Of course, these are fictional characters and situations.

In the past if someone was thought to be a witch they were "tested". These tests more often than not didnt prove anything and many people, mainly women, were either burned or drowned in the process. However, the last execution for witchcraft took place in 1793. This didnt mean that it was no longer practiced but more that it simply became a more secretive craft.

In reality spells date back as far as Celtic times (700 BC). The Celts believed that after death they went to 'Summerland and were reborn. Many of todays modern spells are named after Celtic rituals. The Celts religious year was governed by the seasons and they had many celebrations and festivals during the various seasons - for example the time just before Spring arrived was called Imbolc.

When casting a spell it is all about projecting energy through a certain symbol. Though it is often thought that the symbol is the most important it is in fact the energy that goes through it that matters most.

Dependant upon which spell you are interested in casting you could need anything from an alter to a burine (used to inscribe candles etc.). Here is an example of a simple love spell.

You will need an apple and a bolline which is a traditional witches knife.

You should stand and say Fire, earth, Air, Water, Spirits of the elements be with me. Once you have done that peel the apple with the bolline, keeping the peel in one piece. With the peel in your right hand say Spirits of love, spirits of good, one you now I beg to intrude, with this token to discover, the initial of my one true lover, and it harm none so be it. Then turn round 3 times counter-clockwise and drop the peel over your left shoulder. The letter the peel most resembles when it lands is the initial of your future love.

You must then thank the elements by saying Fire, Earth, Air, Water, I think you for your presence here.

Of course, for more complicated casting you may need more complex and difficult to find tools and symbols.

Herbs and plants are other important ingredients in many spells. The different plants help in all manner of situations - an example would be Rue which is said to be the breaker of curses and a healing plant. Another popular inclusion in spell casting are crystals. Many of their properties too are important for certain spells. If, for example, you are suffering from nightmares, Ruby will replace these with sweet dreams. Each stone has several properties so you may find they are included within several different types of spells.

I have always had a fascination for spells! Keep an eye on the site as I will be putting some simple spells on here for you to try. If there is anything particular that you would like to see a spell on feel free to email me at members@tarotim.com and I will see what I can do for you.

Dee