#Scottish witchcraft

[sierrawitch]

A brief thought as you go about your day:

As witchcraft/folk practitioners, do not give out detailed personal information to just anyone.

I’ve seen so many bios and posts on Tumblr alone containing peoples’ real names, ages, birthdates, full astrology charts, personality types, sexualities, images of themselves either in their profile picture or in a pinned introductory, and a couple times I even saw blood types. And with trauma dumping flooding social media, others get a clear view your mental and emotional wellbeing as well.

This opens you up to potential magickal/spiritual warfare. You’d like to think that others in this community are just as kindhearted as you are. But like in real life, you never truly know someone’s intentions. And since this business is all about intentions, make one of yours to keep yourself safeguarded.

Cleanse your space and yourself

Ward your home

Refresh protections

Physically lock your home’s entrances and exits as necessary

Do not share in-depth information online with random strangers

BE. MINDFUL.

Stay safe!!

[vacantwoodsenthusiast]

Spent the eclipse drawing cards and spending time with my deities. The new Winter Mother prayer beads from @lailoken go beautifully with the custom Celtic Faith beads I had commissioned from Lucien about a year and a half ago!

[weirdlookindog]

Charles-Nicolas Cochin (1715-1790) - Les Sorcières de Macbeth (The Witches of Macbeth)

[hearthandheathenry]

All About Beltane

Beltane, also known as Bealtaine in Irish, is a Gaelic holiday traditionally held on May 1st or the halfway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. It is believed to be named after the Celtic sun god Belenus. It was widely observed in Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle Of Man, and is one of the 4 major Celtic fire festivals. It is mentioned in even the earliest Irish literature and marked the beginning of summer and used as the marker to drive cattle into their summer pastures. Although public celebrations have mostly fallen out after the 20th century and many traditions have been mixed with other cultural holidays (such as the Roman holiday May Day), many Celtic Neopagans and Wiccans still celebrate, and many local traditions still continue, causing it to now get a cultural revival.

Traditionally, rituals were held to protect the livestock that moved pastures, along with crops, dairy products, and people, and to encourage growth. It was also important to appease the Aos Sí, or nature spirits/fairies, which were believed to be more active then.

According to early medieval texts in 908, druids would make two bonfires and drive cattle between them to protect them from disease. In the 18th and 19th centuries, bonfires continued to be an important part of the celebrations. Before the bonfires were lit, all hearth fires were put out, and then relit using the fire from the Beltane bonfires after the celebration.

Continuing into the 19th century, cattle were still driven over or between flames, or sometimes around the fires or made to leap over. The people themselves did as well for good luck and protection. Once the fires died down, people would dab themselves with the ashes and sprinkle them over their crops and livestock. Torches from the bonfires would also be brought home and carried around the home or boundaries, and also used to relight the hearth.

Food was also an important part of the Beltane festival, and usually included a feast of lamb, which, historically, was sacrificed. In 1769, it was written that a hot drink, called a caudle, made of eggs, butter, oatmeal, and milk was served, along with tossing a bit on the ground as an offering. A Beltane Bannock, a type of oatmeal cake, was also written to be important and had a few traditions around it.

In one tradition, the Beltane Bannock had nine knobs on it and each person would take the bannock and face the fire, proceeding to break off the knobs of bannock one at a time and tossing them behind their shoulder as an offering to the spirits for protection over their livestock and from predators (one for the cow, one for the sheep, one for the fox, etc). Afterwards, they would drink the caudle.

According to other 18th century writers, there was another Beltane Bannock tradition where the bannock would be cut into slices and one was marked with charcoal. The slices were then thrown into a bonnet and everyone would take one out while blindfolded. According to one writer, whoever pulled the marked bannock slice had to leap through the fire 3 times. According to another, the person would instead be pretend-thrown into the fire and for some time afterward people would talk about the person as if they were dead. This may have always been symbolic, or it may have been a tradition from a time where actual human sacrifice was used. This tradition was also near identical to May Day traditions that occurred in Wales and other parts of Europe, however.

Other traditions including flowers and plants were also observed, especially ones that evoked fire. Documents from the 19th century cite that yellow and white flowers, such as primrose, rowan, hawthorn, gorse, hazel, and marsh marigold was used and placed at doorways and windows. Sometimes they were strewn into garland, and other times they were made into bouquets, made into crosses, or fastened to them. They were also fastened to cows and milking/butter equipment.

Decorating a May Bush or May Bough was also a widespread tradition, and it usually consisted of a small tree or branch (typically hawthorn, rowan, holly, or sycamore) decorated with bright flowers, ribbons, candles, painted shells or egg shells from Easter, and more. In some traditions they also decorated it with gold and silver May Balls, which were hurling balls, that were then either given out to children or gifted to winners of a hurling match. It was also known as the only acceptable time to cut a thorn tree, as they were associated with fairies and may have also been a relic of worshipping tree spirits. It would either be decorated where it grew, or branches hung over windows, doors, roofs, and barns either inside or outside. Traditionally, it was the responsibility of the eldest of the house to decorate it.

The tree was usually left up until May 31st, but in some traditions it would be burned in the festival bonfire after singing and dancing around it. In Dublin and Belfast, May Bushes were brought into town and decorated by the whole neighborhood, with each neighborhood competing for the most beautiful bush. These competitions could also lead to neighborhoods attempting to steal others May Bushes, which eventually led to the May Bush being outlawed in Victorian times.

Appeasing the fairies was also a big part in Beltane celebrations, with many traditions revolving around offerings to the fairies and also warding them off, as there were many fears around them stealing dairy. One protection tradition was to leave 3 black coals under the butter churn. Another was to hang May Boughs on the milk pails. And yet another was to hang cattle tails in the barns. Flowers were also used to decorate the cattle's horns for good luck.

Farmers would also lead a procession around the boundaries of the farm and would "carry with them seeds of grain, implements of husbandry, the first well water, and the herb vervain (or rowan)", stopping at the four cardinal points of direction starting at the east, and performing rituals towards each direction at each stop. These processions were said to bring protection of their farm produce and encourage fertility. Some people also made the sign of the cross using milk on the backside of cattle for good luck.

As for fairy offerings, one tradition was to pour milk or leave food at places associated with the fairies such as "fairy trees". In Ireland, cattle were brought to "fairy forts" where a small amount of their blood was poured into the earth with prayers of the herd's safety. Sometimes, the blood would be left to dry and then be burnt.

Visiting holy wells was also a popular way to celebrate Beltane. Visitors would walk sunwise, moving from east to west, around the well while praying for health. They would then leave offerings of coins or cloth. The first water drawn from the well on Beltane was thought to be especially potent, and would bring good luck to the person who drew it.

Morning dew on Beltane was also thought to bring goodluck and health, and maidens would wash their face with it or roll in it at dawn or before sunrise on Beltane. It was also collected in a jar, left in sunlight, and then filtered. The dew was said to increase sexual attractiveness, maintain youthfulness, protect from sun damage, and ensure skin health during the ensuing year.

Modern day celebrations may vary from these more traditional festival activities, but many choose to incorporate or take inspiration from the traditions at least. Popular traditions still revolve around bonfires, feasts, decorating a May Bush, and focusing on protection and growth.

Beltane Associations

Colors - yellow, white, red, green

Food - lamb, milk and dairy, beef, bannocks, caudle, cakes

Animals - cattle, sheep, other herd animals

Items - primrose, rowan, hawthorn, gorse, hazel, marsh marigold, holly, sycamore, yellow and white flowers, flower garland, greenery, morning dew, dairy products

Crystals - citrine, fire agate, fire opal, carnelian, red and yellow jasper

Other - protection, fertility, good luck, fire, smoke, ash, sun, bonfires, farming

Ways To Celebrate

light a bonfire

jump over or dance around a bonfire

decorate a May Bush or May Bough

craft and hang flower garland

bake Beltane Bannocks

collect morning dew

create some caudle

ward and protect your home or property

leave offerings for the fairies

focus on protection, growth, and luck magic

enjoy time in the sun

have a feast

create a bouquet out of yellow and white flowers

visit a farm or petting zoo

[twinchesterr]

Why are my friends so fucking FUNNY

[the-quackeroos]

looks like that kid knows about paranormal activity :0

[templeofbrigid]

Fáilte! (Welcome to the Temple of Brigid!)

My name’s Silver and I’ll be sharing my insights and rituals centered around the lovely goddess Brigid here. Brigid is traditionally honored in Ireland, Scotland, and parts of Wales. Over time, her many names spread and now she’s beloved and worshipped worldwide, both as a pagan goddess and a Saint. She is mostly known as the goddess of healing, creativity, fire, and poetry. However, she also has associations with the season of spring, domestic animals, wells and a whole list of other things.

I believe her energy offers guidance, inspiration, and healing to all who call upon her.

The Temple of Brigid blog is meant to be a place of warmth, invitation and learning about Brigid—(likely to also become a bit of a personal echo chamber at times as well lol)

I look forward to sharing this part of my own journey with you, and I hope you find something here that resonates, inspires, or helps you along your path. Thank you for visiting my page and I invite you to come back often to explore more ways to connect with the goddess Brigid.

[lailoken]

By Rowan Berry and Red Thread,

I put all Evil to its speed...

[that-cunning-witch]

Ancient Celtic religion (Irish, Scottish, Welsh, etc.) has been and is continuing to be culturally appropriated to absolute filth, but idk if y'all are ready to have that conversation yet

[gideonstrix]

Information sheet + student ID for

⭒๋࣭𝑮𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒐𝒏 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒙 𓆙

Template by @kiwiplaetzchen

Template by @acslytherpuff

[sierrawitch]

Recommended Beginner Resources

**I don’t consider myself an expert, these are books that I personally enjoyed

Wild Magic by Danu Forest

This is a great book for those just beginning their exploration into a Celtic path. There are traditions, cultural aspects, deities, and other topics covered in this book.

Morgan Daimler

Many of Morgan Daimler’s works are very beginner-friendly, and overall pleasant to read. Her writing style makes historical information a bit easier to process, and her insight is a nice touch.

True Magick by Amber K

Definitely a personal favorite, Amber provides an interesting perspective on many beginner topics, specifically on reincarnation in the witchcraft/pagan sphere. This is a Wiccan-centered text, but is a good foundational piece for any practice.

Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft

Buckland is not one of my favorite authors, but this book in particular was very engaging due to its incorporating workbook pages after each chapter. This is a great way to test your knowledge on previously covered information as you go along in the book and is very helpful for retaining what you’ve learned.

Wild Witchcraft by Rebecca Beyer

Again, not inherently Celtic, but a nice piece on nature-centered practice with a focus on spirits of place rather than deities (as many books tend to be).

Earth Witch by Britton Boyd

I was intrigued by this book after hearing Britton speak on a podcast, and I’m glad I read it! Again, not focused on Celtic practice, but includes thought-provoking philosophical perspective and exercises for becoming closer with the land and its spirits.

Scott Cunningham

Cunningham is a household favorite for many practitioners. His works are broad yet thorough, and applicable to many practices despite being Garderian at their cores.

Scottish Witchcraft & Magick by Raymond Buckland

Again, not my favorite author, but this brief collection of practices can be a good introduction to aspects of Scottish witchcraft. This book is based on the information of one major source, Aidan Breac of the PectiWita tradition, with additional historical references throughout. However, Buckland often inputs his own Gardnerian perspective, which is generally unhelpful in the context of Scottish tradition.

Year of the Witch by Temperance Alden

This book is a nice introduction to the annual holidays. Each chapter focuses on a sabbat/holiday, along with its aspects, symbolism, practices, etc, as a bit of a deeper dive compared to what the average beginner book covers. (Again, Wicca-based, but still informative.)

The Taín

The epic folktale of the Taín Bó Cúailnge is a good historical reference for those just starting on their Celtic path. There is introduction to Irish culture, language, deities, and other famous historical characters that provide insight into what the Celtic tradition is, why it is this way, and how we can learn from the past.

The Mabinogion

This Welsh text consolidates folklore, legend, and history for a great introduction to Welsh customs and culture. Another great historical reference for beginners first starting to look through medieval sources.

sacred-texts.com

This website is a digital collection of historical references throughout the ages adapted for modern perusal. Many texts like the Táin, the Mabinogion, and other pieces of folklore can be found here for FREE! Donations are encouraged for database upkeep.

[blackberry-green-tea]

Welcome!!

My name is Soph and this is my blog!

I’ve never actually posted on Tumblr, so bear with me:))

I’m going to use this as a digital tool to give offerings and devotions to Lady Brigid🕯️

🐌��🌿🐈‍⬛🌙

20y

she/her

celtic pagan witch🍀🧹🦢

[celticwitchcraftco]

Picked up this trinket box with a bell hanging from the lid at one of my local charity shops today!

I find it so much more worthwhile finding things for it second hand than just buying it brand new all the time. Even if I don't worship any particular deity - my practice is much more nature/spirit focused - I feel an appreciation for it. Maybe because it cyclical?

Anyways - I'm hoping to polish him up to place on my small altar later ��️

[weirdlookindog]

Daniel Gardner (c.1750-1805) - The Three Witches from Macbeth, 1775

portraits of Elizabeth Lamb, Viscountess Melbourne; Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire; Anne Seymour Damer

[theavalonianwitch]

Angus Óg/Aengus

A guide

I've decided to write a little profile and deity guide on some of my Gods for anyone who might want more information or want to work with/worship them. So I've decided to start with Aengus :)

Disclaimer: Aengus is found in both Irish and Scottish paganism as both religions overlap greatly (Scottish Paganism originated from the Irish). I'm Scottish, so this will mostly be tailored towards Scottish Paganism and my understanding of Angus Óg as a Scottish pagan.

Not much is known about Celtic Gods as a whole in the modern day and things are very muddled, so there will be different understandings/interpretations of the Gods.

This is from my own experience working with him as well as research.

Angus Óg is the Irish & Scottish Celtic God associated with love, youth, beauty, poetry, and life.

In Scottish Folklore he is the son of Beira. Bride is often depicted as his lover.

Other names: Aengus, Aonghas, Óengus

Symbols/Associations: Harps, white birds, roses, rose quartz, rubies, a white horse

Planet Association: Venus

Season: Summer

Colours: Green, red, pink, gold

Offerings: Wine, roses (and other flowers), apples, feathers, honey, rose quartz

Devotional Acts:

Writing poetry or songs (especially about love)

Spending time with loved ones

Acts of kindness

Making drawings/paintings/artwork of him or related to him

Planting flowers/gardening

Having a self care day/night

Taking a meditative bath

Listening to music, especially love songs

Honouring Bride and Spring

My Experience: From my experience, Angus Óg is very open. He is quite playful yet patient. He seems happy when I create art for him and is always really kind and encouraging about it. He feels full of energy and wisdom and likes hearing about all my little crushes and speaking about relationships. He is intelligent and well-spoken and likes you to take care of yourself and your loved ones. His presence is gentle and soft, yet radiant.

I've found he is a really good deity for beginners and would recommend reaching out to him if you're interested in Celtic Paganism!

[becoming-persephone]

Celebrate International Faerie Day in the Enchanting Realm of the Isle of Skye

Nestled within the rolling hills of Scotland lies the mystical faerie realm of the Isle of Skye. Here, lush green hills, shaped by ancient grey stones, cradle the enchanting Faerie Pools scattered throughout the valley. This moss-covered landscape, imbued with sacred energy, belongs to the fae.

Standing atop these hills, you can witness the ocean gently kissing the shore while the mossy stone mountains embrace the ruins of ancient castles. In this magical setting, the fae invite you to immerse yourself in the wonder of their lands.

This Chrysanthemum stone features a naturally occurring shadow resembling a faerie on its inky surface. 🌑 Known for its mystical properties, the Chrysanthemum stone helps you manifest your dreams and deepen your connection to your intuition. Placing this stone by your bed can foster a connection with the fae in your dreams. Representing the balance of light and darkness, this stone harmonizes with both the full and new moon, making it a powerful tool for spiritual growth and transformation.