#that evil bath ritual >:(

[wuucchoo]

"to be near evil.. and to drown Fushiguro Megumi's soul"

[serpentface]

SPIRITUAL POLLUTION, THE GESTURES AGAINST EVIL, AND ABLUTION: A POST

The concepts of spiritual purity and pollution are central to the Faith of the Seven Faced God (and similar takes on the concept predate it throughout and beyond the immediate Wardi cultural sphere). There is no clean cut distinction between physical and spiritual health in this belief system (these concepts exist as a heavily overlapping venn diagram) and many methods intended to cleanse spiritual pollution address both realms.

The word for the concept referred to as spiritual pollution is 'mesechitse', which can translate to 'blockage' or 'severance' depending on the context (its underlying meaning is a pathway that has been stopped in some capacity).

At its core, spiritual pollution is a corruption of the living spirit (which is carried by/IS the blood). It causes both physical and spiritual problems. Polluted blood flows improperly and does not maintain the body’s natural stasis or integrity, causing or allowing disease or other bodily dysfunctions to occur. Many ailments are seen as wholly physical and internal in nature, occurring directly due to polluted blood flowing improperly and affecting key organs. Other diseases (particularly contagious or infectious disease) are known to be caused by dagi, which are harmful spirits that enter the body through orifices or wounds. A limited number of ailments (most notably pronounced schizophrenia-spectrum disorders or cognitive disabilities, unfortunately) are thought to be caused by possession by more powerful evil spirits.

At its worst, severe spiritual pollution is thought to impact or sever one's connection to God. Summarized very basically, severe pollution = blockage of flow between one's own living spirit and the greater spirit of God, which deprives a person of God's blessings and protection, severs them from the natural cycling of life and death (and prevents their necessary participation) and can put their afterlife in jeopardy.

Some degree of corruption to the living spirit is seen as completely inevitable and managed by the body, which physically expels some polluting agents via urine and feces, as well as menstruation (thus all of these substances are themselves dirty and polluting agents). It is reckoned as impossible for any living body to exist in a Completely spiritually pure state. The goal of cleansing (and broader practices revolving around spiritual integrity) is rather to maintain stasis of the body's natural cycling (and by extension a connection to God's living spirit) and to keep pollution contained and minimized.

If one's immortal soul successfully reaches the afterlife, it is then reborn into a spiritually pure existence incapable of being 'severed' from God in any capacity. God Itself is a spiritually pure being, but Its body and living spirit (the world and its cycles, manifested as Faces) is vulnerable. The purity of God's living spirit (and therefore the life-sustaining functions of the world that all beings depend upon) must be sustained, protected, and restored through right practice, which is what much what the public religion revolves around.

Spiritual pollution is a separate but overlapping concept with:

-Metaphysical vulnerability, the word for which is 'namne couyibase' (literally ‘lacking integrity of Being’). This is a state in which the body and living spirit is considered vulnerable to great change, for good or for bad. These states can have vital and positive uses (they are utilized in many rituals, and it is what allows for conception and birth), but must be entered with caution and intentionality. Uncontrolled namne couyibase can otherwise leave one open to forms of spiritual harm. -Curses, which are targeted infliction of harm (of all sorts- bad luck, evil spirits, etc) onto a person, place, or thing. A spiritually polluted body is has less resistance to curses, and curses can intensify this pollution. -Possession, which is when evil spirits attach themselves to or inhabit the body. In the vast majority of cases, possession does not mean an evil spirit is Controlling the body, merely harming it. A spiritually polluted body has less resistance to possession, and possession can intensify this pollution. -Ritual uncleanliness, which is a state of intensified spiritual pollution that requires complete prohibition from a person from entering sacred spaces or participating in certain rituals until they are made clean. The most common reasons for ritual uncleanliness are active menstruation, being in the mourning period, or having performed a known dirtying action without its required ablution (see below).

---

Multiple levels of religious-medical practice are centered around maintaining the body's stasis and cleansing it of mesechitse whenever possible. The methods are both active and passive.

Passive methods include the wearing of protective objects/amulets or having the motifs on household items or as decoration (the most ubiquitous are charms like the pelatoche (lit: '(ocean) eye') or odatochent (lit. 'Gods eyes'), the skimmer woman, or phalluses, and the wearing of gull feathers), in addition to other beneficial/protective iconography (guardian lions are most common, though physical representations of each Face of God have beneficial functions).

Active methods cover a broad swath of rites and behaviors (which is even broader in non-doctrinal folk practices). I'll be focusing here on the two main everyday methods of protection/cleansing (rather than more specialized rites) that are supported by core doctrine and may be performed by anyone, rather than being restricted to priests.

---

Gestures against evil

These are the absolute most basic protection methods, comprised of three core gestures.

Purity of intent: the hand is held with the palm facing upward, the pointer and pinky finger extended and the thumb and inner two fingers pressed together. This is the most directly ‘cleansing’ gesture, it attempts to bind uncleanliness within the body and thus to prevent inevitable background level spiritual pollution from the body infecting a pure environment or another person. You mostly perform this gesture while entering/leaving a protected or vulnerable space (literal or figurative).

Protection of spirit: the hand is held with the first two fingers pointed together, held upwards for generalized use or pointed for directed use. This is the simplest of apotropaic gestures, aiming to protect the body and spirit from outside harm. This is commonly used before or while entering contexts seen as physically and/or spiritually dangerous, or to un-aggressively counter an evil eye curse.

Dispelling of evil: The hand is held with the first two fingers pointing together, touched to the lips, and flicked away from the body. In practice, this is most commonly used to prevent attachment by malicious or otherwise harmful spirits that may have been evoked (you might perform this after you speak of someone believed to be an earthbound ghost or refer to an evil spirit directly, or immediately after touching a potentially contagious sick person (ideally followed by ablution)). This will not help you if evil spirits have fully Attached themselves to you, but can remove ones that have been attracted to you. Doing this gesture and flicking in the direction of another person is very rude.

These gestures have separate uses, but will often be performed in conjunction (usually in the order given) as a quick means of protecting oneself and the spaces around them. It is not considered a doctrinal replacement for ablution as it does not actually cleanse the spirit, but it attempts to reduce harm (both sustained and produced by the user).

---

Ablutions:

Ablution is spiritually and physically cleansing the body with clean water. The metric for clean water is fairly expansive- ocean water, any flowing water, any clear lake, shallow water sources that are clear and free of (obvious) polluting elements such as animal corpses or unclean animal feces, any clear collected water.

The core requirement of an ablution is for the hands to be cleaned in all circumstances, and for other body parts to be cleansed in addition if the situation requires it. One must fully wet the hands/other affected areas and scrub thoroughly, and then use fresh water to rinse. If you have to clean other parts of your body, you save your hands for last (as they will be used for the cleaning).

It is appropriate to perform ablutions cooperatively, but the person assisting you should participate as well (ie- if you have someone washing your back, they should scrub and rinse their own hands after). Someone considered to be in a ritually unclean state that ablution will not immediately fix (the most common are actively menstruating or being in the midst of the mourning period) should not perform ablutions on others.

Note that there is no Hard distinction between bathing for spiritual cleanliness and bathing for physical cleanliness (there is a separate set of cultural standards for physical hygiene, but most hygiene expectations are Covered by ablution). In most circumstances, ablution is just a regular, sometimes tedious everyday activity rather than a solemn or special occasion.

The ritualized requirements denote that only the hands + any given affected body parts Must be washed, but ablutions will often be an aspect of a full-body bathing routine to meet other hygiene standards. (ie: someone performing ablution before making offerings or eating a meal is only Required to wash their hands, but will very often wash their whole bodies and clean their hair- offerings and a meal are (typically) daily activities, so this is a good time to just get a full bath in while you’re at it). It may additionally involve washing the skin with oil or soap, moisturizing the hair with oil, scraping away dead skin, and applying perfumes. This is not a ritual requirement and is performed because generally, people like to feel clean and smell nice.

The hard physicality of cleansing WITH WATER is KEY to this practice. Per core doctrine, there are no DIY cleansing methods that replace washing with water. If one does not have access to clean water for ablutions, they should not perform offerings whatsoever (but are allowed to pray) until they can be cleansed, and accept that they are receiving spiritual pollution by performing ablution-required tasks in the meantime. A blessing from a priest is the only doctrine-supported spiritually cleansing replacement for water ablutions. In practice many people will use the gestures against evil as a replacement (which is not supported by doctrine and is more common in folk religious practice), and virtually everyone will find ways to get physical contaminants off of their body either way (if you step in dog shit and don't have any water nearby, you're going to wipe it the hell off even if that doesn't make you ritually clean).

Times when such an ablution is generally considered a hard requirement:

Before bloodletting in prayer or making other offerings

Before meals

Before assisting in a birth

After menstruation ends

After receiving penetrative sex

After defecating

After urinating (this isn't as ubiquitously seen as a hard requirement, in a lot of cases people interpret it as 'only if you actually get pee on your hands')

After touching urine

After touching feces (many lines of thought make exceptions for the excrement of cattle and khait due to their clean and sacred status- this makes life a easier for the majority of people who have to use dry dung as fuel)

After touching a dead body (human or animal)

At the end of your mourning period for dead kin (traditionally as part of a larger ritual involving full body submergence in flowing water, rather than as a common ablution)

After touching someone else's blood (aside from rites that require it, in which the blood is expected to be clean and the cross-pollution of living spirit is intentional) (technically includes semen but this does not come up very often)

After touching most sick people (particularly with contagious diseases or any skin ailments)

After recovering from an illness (ablutions will be performed as an aspect of treatment as well)

Before entering most temple's inner shrines (and some temples altogether)

Also a requirement for participation in certain specific rites and/or festivals

The exact nuances on how hard these requirements are sometimes vary, particularly in instances revolving around touch. Official doctrine is that any unclean touch requires ablution, but in common practice this is sometimes reinterpreted as only a hard requirement when the touch occurs to the hands. Most practitioners do not perform an ablution immediately after an unclean touch occurs (if you're a field laborer and step in dung, you're probably going to wait to wash until you retire for the night), and not everyone performs ablutions every single time they 'should'.

Only drawing I have related to ablution under the cut (nudity)

This is one way to do it

[conjuremanj]

The Evil Eye, How To Remove It Using A Egg Cleansing.

What is The Evil Eye? The Evil Eye is a type of curse of affliction, it's envy. We learned of this from different people from different areas around the world. All these places inherited the idea of The Evil Eye but in all cases, the affliction manifests itself in the same way.

How Did I Get Hit With The Evil Eye? The Evil Eye is a type of curse that can be cast out of Envy, and place on someone intentionally or Sometimes unintentionally.

The Evil Eye is put on someone by fixing there gaze apon them while paying them a false compliment that is held by jealousy. Jealousy and envy are the main features of The Evil Eye.

We all heard or seen in movies where in some cultures where a person is insulted, they will lightly spit to dismiss the devil or counteract The Evil Eye when a compliment is paid (the fluid of the spit combats the drying nature of The Evil Eye). Now you don't need to know who put up the Evil Eye upon you, it's just better to remove it and then put up protections against any future problems.

Symptoms of The Evil Eye: The Evil Eye can have one or more symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, profuse sweating, eye afflictions (infections, redness), possible bleeding from orifices (mouth, nose or anus) and general flu-like symptoms. All of these involve some form of fluid loss from the body.

(It is important to note that The Evil Eye is not a sickness or medical condition perse but can turn into a medical condition. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you MUST go to a doctor and have them treat your physical condition)

(After seeing the doctor even multiple times and you still are having one or more of these symptoms. Seek out a doctor's help. Because a magical curse like envy (evil eye) that is afflicting your spiritual self can cause real physical ailments. You must use medicine under the supervision of a doctor, in addition to a spiritual course of action to remove the physical ailments.

(Again I say, use the medicine given under the supervision of a doctor with additional spiritual actions because it's not only affecting the physical body it is affecting your spiritual self as well, so you will need both)

How Do You Remove The Evil Eye? When removing The Evil Eye or cleansing The Evil Eye can be accomplished several ways. All of them involve some kind of moisture/fluid (to counteract the loss of fluids from the body so drink some water to start to help replenish the body.

This practice that can be traced back to history: and many cultures a gift from the ancestors for all to access to alleviate evil eye and to further connect us to the cosmic egg — life's blessings. Evil Eye is not uncommon. It is believed that the egg is a capsule that absorbs negative energy from the body and aura. This is why the egg is rubbed all over the body while performing the actual ritual and worked over specific areas of ailment.

Setting Up: one egg, a bowl, one what new candle.

Repair the bowl with water and light the white candle for the creator. Add a little holy oil for him.

Egg Cleansing: One of the simplest and best ways to remove The Evil Eye is to take a chicken egg, Start by pass it over and on the body from your head down to your feet, making sure to thoroughly pass it over the most afflicted area of your body.

As you pass the egg over your body recite The Lord's Prayer and Psalm 23. When you're finishing up at your feet, wrap the egg and take it outside and disposed of it.

Blood: I want to speak on blood a lot of religions uses blood from Palo, Santeria, Vodou even Hoodoo I'm mentioning this because is you see blood or a embrial in the egg when you crack it open doesn't mean it is a bad thing. Some spells need blood. In the case for a egg cleansing it's a good thing this tells me that the body has been cleaned of all negativity and it took a blood sacrifice to cleanse and to rid that person of something bad.. (all that means don't freak out) 🙏😁

Last: A Uncrossing Baths: After useing the egg to remove the spiritual ailment I suggest using a uncrossing wash (bath) to remove the left over residue.

Remember your not talking a actual bath it's just a wash to remove the curse. Start by taking your uncrossing herbs pk, or premade bottled uncrossing wash in a bowl and pour the wash staring from the top of your head on down. Reciting Psalm 91. V1. Once your done take the remaining water and it's contents and throw it outside.

If more then one bath is need because you may not feel a 100% but are doing better take a few more baths up the total to 7 baths should remove it completely. After your bath dress in clean clothing.

Now you can use holy oil or if prefered Fiery World of Protection Oil to anointed your head and candle and say a prayer to Saint Michael to help prevent any future attacks.

How To Prevent: Beads and charms like in the shape of the evil eye or a fatima charm will work. just say a prayer to bless a object and add your intentions upon it.

[carebearbussy]

𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙥𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨

ᥫ᭡ 𝙨𝙮𝙥𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨: 𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙘𝙝… 𝙨𝙪𝙠𝙪𝙣𝙖 𝙞𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙡.

ᥫ᭡ 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨: 𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙜𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙘!𝙨𝙪𝙠𝙪𝙣𝙖 𝙭 𝙛𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚!𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧

ᥫ᭡ 𝙘𝙬: 𝙨𝙢𝙪𝙩 𝙬/ 𝙖 𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙩, 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙, 𝙫𝙤𝙮𝙚𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙢, 𝙥𝙚𝙩 𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙪𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧 216

ᥫ᭡ 𝙬𝙘: 1,4K

𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙣𝙖 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚? 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

You don't know how you ended up here.

Currently, you were standing on the steep steps of the Zen'in estate, alongside Uraume, Kenjaku, and, well, yourself. But you didn't feel like yourself. Instead, you felt an overwhelming evil fill your system. You felt the bile in the pit of your stomach churn, and the air in your lungs suddenly gained heaviness. But of course, you were supposed to be ready for this kind of thing.

You watched Uraume dismantle a giant cursed spirit, splitting it from the inside out and freezing its insides. Their expression told you that they were indifferent to this kind of treatment. "Whats wrong Y/N? Never seen a cursed spirit bleed?" Kenjaku spoke up. "I-I have..." that was a lie. And it was clear Kenjaku knew that, but he let you have your reassuring moment.

Uraume had previously informed you about the ritual of bathing in the blood of cursed spirits. It made your head spin even thinking about it. They called you 'weak' or 'tender' for saying that. But I mean, who wouldn't be disgusted by a giant bleeding cursed spirit? The sight was downright vile.

"Y/N, Please do not keep Sukuna Sama waiting." Uraume says. "What? Where is he?" You say, trying to keep your composure. "He is down those stairs, in the bath I have prepared for him. He has ordered me to inform you upon your arrival, to come to his side. I can show you the way if you would like."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

"What are you looking at, brat? You wanna come in?" Sukuna says, staring directly into your eyes. Most of his head was submerged under the crimson fluid that surrounded him, and he had a lustful look in his eyes when he spoke to you. One of the many things that never failed to make you weak in the knees.

"I wouldn't prefer that... I don't wanna get my hair wet." Which was an obvious lie, to the truth that you were scared. But Sukuna knew you too well, and could see through your facade. And with a chuckle, he said, "Women are so dramatic sometimes. But I can tell you're lying. You're scared, is that it?" You pause and look at the scene before you. The pool of blood is at least a couple meters deep, and it was absolutely huge to your standards. "You scared of drowning? Ill hold you up then. These worries of yours are irrelevant to me. Be a big girl and get inside already."

You didn't want to seem weak in front of Sukuna, but the thing was, he already knew you were weak. So there was truly no need to hide that from him. Sukuna basically knew everything about you, as being one of the perks of being his favorite playthings. You aren't too sure how you managed to get this far into your questionable relationship with the curse, but it really happened with no negotiation. He suddenly took a liking to you and your uncoordinated self. Something about you was charming to him. How cute.

You suck in your breath and close your eyes, as you are reassuring yourself to be more brave. But as you make your descent downwards, it was hard to. Which in turn makes you trip over your steps, with a loud shriek. But as you land and fall feet first inside the water, you find yourself being held up by Sukunas arms. "Such a clumsy thing to do in front of your king." He says, clearly amused in your antics.

You start to quietly panic, as the only thing holding you up in the deep liquid is Sukunas strong hold on your thrushing body, keeping his hands attached to your waist. "Calm down already. You aren't drowning as long as i'm here." His words didn't fix your crumbling composure.

"You need my help? Or do I need to teach you how to calm the fuck down."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

You couldn't think straight.

With the way Sukunas hips piled rived into yours, it turned you into a blabbing mess. He had brought you to the shallow area of the steps while still submerged. While he was siting on one of the steps, you were going practically dumb on his cock. You held onto his shoulders with each hard thrust of his hips, holding on for dear life at this point.

All that could be heard was splashing from the waves that formed around the two of you, and the squelching of your aroused pussy.

"K-kuna please-" You say as his cock continues his assault on your poor cunt, his gruff hands moving your hips up and down like a ragdoll. "Holy shit- hhahhh- I cant- Please" "Use your words, big girl." He says, a harsh hand coming up to grab and handful of your hair. "Its too much- im gonna cum soon kuna!" You say embarrassingly, hiding your face into Sukunas shoulder.

"Aw, but we just got started right?" He says with a fake pout. This little fucker. "Cmon, keep trying. You wish to please me, correct?" With a smug grin tugging his lips, he forces your head to look over your shoulder at the mess your making on his cock.

"Uraume! Get us a robe while your at it, yeah?" Sukuna yells from across the room, his eyes preoccupied on your shaking body. "At once, my lord." Uraume says, taking a leave. Uraume? Were they here the whole time? You went too blank spaced in the mind to even notice anybody else.

But your thoughts come to a halt when Sukuna stops, flips you around and ruts into you from behind, his hands snaking around your waist, head resting on your shoulder, causing you to grab onto his thighs for dear life. The relenting pace he was going at, paired with the angle he was fucking your pussy in made you see stars, indicating your soon coming release.

"Right there- shit right there! Don't stop- please-!" You held your head hanging low, too focused on the pleasure Sukuna was handing your way. "Oh my, so bossy today. Who are you to think you can order me around?" He says, low groans leaving his mouth from behind your shoulder. "Im about to- oh my god oh my god-" And with that you cum, your cunt convulsing and tightening around his length, practically milking him.

"Good fucking girl, let it all out." He says, while still thrusting into you, maintaining his relentless pace. "Stop! Too much-" You yelled, mouth hanging open uncontrollably. "You want me to fill you up? You'd want that wouldn't you. You want your kings seed?" He grabs the sides of your face, and moves his hands in and out, mimicking the movement of your mouth and saying in a high pitched voice 'Yes, I want my kings seed!'

He laughs with Uraume at this, who is standing unbothered at the sight before them. Holding two matching robes for the two of you. You couldn't help but let out loud moans from how overwhelmed you were. "You see that Uraume? Shes embarassed, its pathetic really. the poor thing isn't used to people watching." "The way she is moving tells me she is, she is overreacting really." Uraume says, observing the sight, with no lustful intentions. Your head starts shaking, trying to say you don't. "Please Kuna! I cant-

"You like when they watch? My drama queen truly." He says, slowing down his movements. "Fuck, being so good for me. Heres your reward, pet." And with a harsh groan, releases inside of your fluttering pussy, filling you to the brim with his seed, and painting your inner walls white. You whimper with your head low, as Sukuna rests his head in the crook of your neck, hands still resting on your hips.

He pulls out of you and flips you around, grabbing your chin. You are basically on the brim of passing out from how intense that was. He picks you up by the ass, forcing glops of cum to drool out of your cunt, and pool into the water. Sukuna looks amused at the piece of art he had just created.

"Good job brat. Uraume! Get us those towels, and make sure she can stand, I don't need an annoying little pet the next day."

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .

[tiredwitchplant]

It's Time for Samhain! (Oct 31- Nov 1)

What is Samhain? In the Celtic calendar, Samhain marks the end of summer and the harvest season, and the beginning of the dark, cold winter months. It falls opposite Beltane on May 1, which represents the beginning of spring and the life-filled growing season.

It’s believed that the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest on Samhain. Historically, people were worried that they would encounter ornery spirits if they ventured outside on Samhain night, so they dressed as ghosts or wore masks to disguise themselves. Folks would leave treats on their front porch or place an extra setting at the table to welcome any friendly spirits who stopped by. You can see how these Samhain rituals easily morphed into our modern-day version of trick-or-treating in costume.

Nighttime bonfires were another of the long-standing Samhain rituals - this one was thought to help combat the impending darkness of winter and the fearful chill that accompanied the idea of roaming spirits. Because the veil between living and dead is believed to be the thinnest on this night, Samhain is also a powerful night for divination and spellcasting by candlelight.

Usual Symbols of Samhain:

Ale or Mead

Pumpkins

Skulls

Besom or Broom

Beans

Cauldron

Bats

Keys

Squash

Pomegranate

Nuts

Apples and Cider

Bones

Herbs and Plants for Samhain:

Rosemary – Associated with remembrance and is needed during this season in taking time to honor the memories of our ancestors and other lost loved ones. Can be used in an incense blend and at ancestor altar

Fall Flowers – Includes flowers like marigolds and chrysanthemums. Are associated with protection and chrysanthemums come in handy with connecting to the spirit world

Apples (the fruit, branches and blossoms) – Is considered sacred to a lot of gods. A good apple harvest means that the gods have shown the community their favor. You can use apples in different rituals, especially divination

Pomegranates – Is associated with the realm of the underworld and helps with communication with the dead. It is also associated with fertility of the fall.

Squashes, Pumpkins and Gourds – Is associated with abundance and provides sustenance for your family when the fields become bare and covered in snow. Is linked to psychic awareness and development and protection.

Mugwort – Is associated with divination and dreaming. Using Mugwort baths or incenses in the rituals can focus on treating depression, especially with the seasons changing

Rowan Trees – The branches and berries are a way to keep evil spirits out of your house and are associated with good health. If you plant a tree near a grave, it will prevent the dead from rising.

Sage – Is associated with cleansing and grounding. Is a great incense to cleanse your home to bring in the new and out with the old

Hawthorn – Has been associated with the gateway between humans and the spirit world. Is also rumored to an area where you can see fairies.

Crystals for Samhain:

Amethyst – Aids in opening one’s third eye and is valuable to be able to see Samhain’s spirits around

Black Obsidian – Is great for grounding and protect from evil spirits. Can be used in scrying when speaking to deities and spirits of Samhain

Citrine – Is used to honor the sun. Aids in prosperity spells and carries joy

Black Tourmaline – Wards off unwanted spirits from your property and can be buried into the ground to protect from psychic attacks and spirit intrusion

Orange Calcite – Orange is a sacred color to Samhain. This stone is associated with one’s sacral chakra and can cleanse and align reproductive organs, sexuality and get creativity flowing

Bloodstone – Known to heal cardiovascular illness and disease. Can help with ancestry links and work

Spirit Quartz – Is great in helping communicate with the spirits of Samhain and releasing old and toxic habits

Lepidolite – Used to appease the fairies that roam during Samhain

Serpentine – Is associated with snakes and aids in remembering past lives. Loki seems to like this stone and may be great to use for him if you work with him during this season

Dragonstone – Dragons are guardians of the earth, spirits of place, and connect us to Mother Nature. Helps say goodbye to the old years and our old selves

Skull shaped Stones – Since skulls are symbols of Samhain, skull shaped stone can help with symbolism during this holiday. They represent the life-death-rebirth cycle, wisdom and our ancestors

Spells and Rituals:

A Samhain Tea (Apple and Hawthorn Berry)

1 apple, sliced

2 Tablespoon dried hawthorn berries (or 4 Tablespoons fresh)

1 cinnamon stick

A pinch of cloves

4 cups water

Honey, to taste (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a small stockpot.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes.

Strain the plant material from the tea, then transfer the tea into two mugs.

Enjoy one for yourself, and leave the other on your table or front porch to nourish any wandering spirits who may pass while the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest.

A Pumpkin Spell for Prosperity

A pumpkin

Some paint

Go to the pumpkin patch (or local store) and select a pumpkin. Or let the pumpkin choose you.

Bring it home and paint prosperity symbols on it – money signs, runes for prosperity or harvest glyphs (whatever means prosperity to you).

Then place by your front door to invite prosperous vibes into your home this Samhain season.

Bonfire Release Purification Spell

Paper

Pen

Source of fire (bonfire, fireplace, candle flame)

Gather your materials and sit by the fire.

Take a few minutes to just listen to the fire crackling.

Gaze into the flames and connect with this powerful element.

Next begin to think about what habit or person you are releasing this Samhain. Think about why you’re purifying your life from this thing or person.

Then write the habit or person down on the piece of paper.

Fold it away from you 3 times.

Hold it in your hands and allow all of the negative thoughts and energies inside of you to “drain” out of you and into the paper.

Then throw it in the fire and say,

“After this Samhain, never again. Never again. I release _________ from my life by the power of the Samhain fire. So, mote it be.”

How to Make a Samhain Altar

Beautiful autumn leaves or flowers that you collect on a nature walk

A candle

A mugwort bundle

A string of rowan beads

A bowl of apples or a small pumpkin

A hawthorn wand or bowl of freshly picked hawthorn berries

A picture of your ancestors

To make an altar, first find a corner of your home or a table surface where you can arrange a few treasures. You don’t need a ton of space. You could use the top of a dresser, the corner of your desk, an unused side table, etc. 

After you’ve assembled your altar, spend some time sitting quietly in the space. Light the candle and/or mugwort wand, sip on a cup of Apple & Hawthorn Berry Tea and meditate on this energetically powerful day. 

I could find specific written instructions for a crystal grid but I found a video!

Crystal Grid for Samhain

Let's get ready for Samhain and have a great and safe time!

[jmliebert]

☆ how to charm Tom Riddle (but you're lowkey evil)☆

also known as ☆ Tom Riddle x Evil!Reader headcanons ☆

Tom is collected, always knowing the secrets and his role in this wicked world. No one can stop him—not even himself—as he marches down the path of destruction for all around him, including himself. Nothing surprises him in his meticulously calculated world, but you.

Hidden behind his impeccable manners and simple brilliance, Tom observes. A lot. One crisp evening, when all the notable Slytherins gather in the common room, he watches silently. Then he notices he’s not alone in his scrutiny. He sees you observing as well (of course, you must be from Slytherin), your eyes shimmering with brightness and something darker he can’t quite decipher, but nevertheless it catches his attention.

One day, he sees you arguing with someone and, naturally, he observes. Situations like that reveal a lot about a person, and once again, he’s (mildly) surprised. You don’t shout. You remain calm, collected, your voice relaxed, your face blank. But your mouth, oh, your mouth, spits words veiled with well-hidden hatred. You have a sharp tongue, but you don’t let your emotions get the better of you. He likes that. You have your own mind and are definitely not a mere follower.

You are a perfect studen as well. He sees you’re bright and handle things effortlessly. What intrigues Tom even more is that you don’t try to fit in. You don’t seek attention; you’re quite a loner really, minding your own business. You don’t need your peers' approval or a crowd of friends. You are your own person. This independence is important to Tom because he prefers to be in the spotlight while you are content in the shadows. There’s a saying: "There cannot be two dragons in one village," and it fits your dynamic perfectly i think.

And also I think he sees behind this independence of yours. Tom feels you are lonely and misunderstood just like him and perhaps that made him want to be closer.

One time Tom "accidentally" walks into the prefect's bathroom where you are bathing. Let me just say; he’s not a pervert; he just wants to provoke a reaction, to see something vulnerable in your eyes he can use against you. You’re in the water, thick fog filling the room, and you remain in your place, unashamed, your body glistening with water. “How can I help you, Tom?” you ask simply and a delicate smile plays on Tom lips at that.

You are a challenge. You know the game he plays, and it’s refreshing. Another significant factor is your fascination with the Dark Arts. You spend much time in the library’s restricted section, where your conversations deepen over shared interests. Tom is charmed to learn you collect cursed tokens and have a hidden liking for the grotesque. You are truly fascinating.

Before long, you’re performing dark magic rituals together—dark offerings and soul-binding spells. You cut your palms and share your blood, keeping your secrets to the grave. But you are still hard to break, your emotions hidden deep inside.

But sometimes, Tom manages to break through. When he does something you disapprove of, you maintain your composure in public. Yet, in secluded corners of the castle, you grab his neck and bite his lips until they bleed during kisses, showing that you do have feelings after all.

"Sometimes all I want is to ruin you."

Tom knows it’s not only lust and shared ambition that keep you close to him. You are strategic. You think ahead, coldly and calculated, which actually gives him peace. It's good to know that after all everyone is the same. That deep inside everyone is a monstrosity. That he can understand.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

you can find more of my works about Tom ♡here♡

[bonkled]

It had been weeks, tearing hand over hand through winding tunnels and subterranean ruins. Fatigue couldn't touch Wairuha. No rest, not a drop of water, only grim determination and the faint psychic signals from their brother Toa carried them on.

The caverns beneath Kini-Nui had changed. What had once been a straight chute, now exploded with seemingly endless tunnels in all directions. Only Akamai could dig like this.

These tunnels connect to sites of strange rituals and ran-sacked holy places... holy places only Akamai could find.

Makuta has been looking for something.

Suddenly, the tight tunnel Wairuha was crawling through opened into a cavern bathed in sickly green light. Akamai's psychic signal became an incomprehensible howl, increasing in intensity with every step.

After cresting an upward slope, Wairuha was before the Dark Lord and his loyal war hound. Makuta sat on a stone throne carved in hideous arcane runes. He was draped in a tattered, filthy cloak, his head slumped forward as if in a stupor. Crystal columns pulsed with evil green light from behind Makuta. The same light that poured from the eyes of Akamai, skulking like a beast at the foot of Makuta's throne, growling and slavering from behind a hideous black mask.

"Akamai, stand up, Nui damn you!" Wairuha shouted.

From his throne, Makuta slowly lifted his head just enough to look at Wairuha.

"Curses from the mouth of a divine sentinel..."

Makuta let his head slump forward and the filthy shroud swallowed his face again.

"I was divinity once."

Wairuha began to step slowly toward Akamai, eyes locked on the blade clutched in his hand. Akamai pawed the ground with a twitchy claw and glared daggers at Wairuha, but he did not attack.

"Release my brother, your conquest is complete." Wairuha called.

Makuta's voice was a lazy croak in response. "I am so weary of your ilk, Wairuha. But... This is the isle of Teridax. Those who have the strength to take, may take freely."

With a groan of effort, Makuta leaned slightly toward Akamai and flicked his wrist in Wairuha's direction.

"War hound, give your comrade the fight they came for. Let your blood mingle before my throne."

[concreteangel92]

Noah With A Witch Girlfriend

Noah Sebastian x female reader

Warnings: none, all fluff

A/N: so I wanted to do something a bit different to what I’ve seen on here before and I thought a headcanon about Noah having a partner who practices witchcraft was such an interesting concept due to his upbringing and it’s also something very close to my heart haha hope you all enjoy 🖤

Masterlist

•although Noah was never a believer in witchcraft, he was open to learn from you as to why you do it and what it was all about

•would definitely find it fascinating comparing it to religion and seeing the similarities (of course you’ll tell him that it all comes from the pagans)

•loves watching your eyes light up when you talk about it

•Noah would soon have a new found respect for magic and its history

•but he will definitely crack the odd joke here or there but means no harm with them

• “you going to curse me if I piss you off?”

• “don’t tempt me”

•when you tell him that you work with your spirit guides/angels/universe (or whatever you prefer to call them) you know he’ll be making jokes like “so if I work with you, does that make you my angel?”

•corny jokes aside, you know he’s only teasing you

•he would soon perk up when you tell him that sex can be very powerful in spell work

•he’d be more then willing to help, I mean, what are good boyfriends for right? 😏

•if you gave him a tarot reading and it came true, of course he’ll try and find a logical explanation first

•Noah would also do that when any of your spells have worked, but you can definitely see the shock in his eyes at the outcome for whatever spell you’ve done

•he’d love to watch you work at your alter and loves how it looks and how personal it is for you

•would definitely buy you gifts and crystals, etc for your alter

•after some time he may even be inclined to join you in some of your work

•he’ll offer to cleanse the house for you to show that he’s learning

•he would definitely join you for meditation or your ritual baths to cleanse your energy/aura

•if it’s important to you, it’s important to him

•gets defensive at people who may laugh or make fun of you for doing it

•he will always have your back, no matter what

•I have no doubt you’d catch him reading some of your books, man loves to read and learn, this would be no different

•would also love the personal gifts you give him such as protection jars, crystals, amulets to ward off the evil eye, etc

•“Babe, why do we have so many empty jars in this cupboard, are they to be thrown?”

•“Leave them be!”

•Noah soon learns that a witch never throws good jars out

•in time Noah would ask you for certain spells for luck with the band or a project he’s working on

• “can’t hurt to have the extra luck right?”

•and you never know, you may just make a believer out of him yet ✨

[liviawildrose]

𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐝

keep your energy private.

seriously, keeping your energy to yourself isn’t just about privacy; it’s a form of protection. when you keep everything to yourself your plans, your dreams, your struggles you’re building a force field around your future. people can’t taint what they don’t know. your energy is sacred, and you need to protect it at all costs. i know i share a lot of my stories, goals, dreams and struggles on this blog but guys livia wildrose ain’t my real name lol. so even if i’m saying stuff here it’s not like y’all know me personally or how i look like, moreover this is a place for me to see and tract my progress as well as help everyone along the way.

it’s not just about guarding your goals from negative people, it’s also about protecting your peace from unwanted opinions and energy. you have to realize that when you let people in on your vision, you’re giving them the ability to influence your thoughts, your beliefs, and your emotions. keep your energy private so that no one can manipulate it. i’ve mentioned this in take yourself seriously cause you need to be mindful with people around you. now, if you are sharing things with people, always remember this cleanse yourself every single day. you’re not just protecting your energy from others, but also keeping yourself aligned with the higher vibrations you deserve. do your rituals, take your baths, and cleanse your space. salt, turmeric, water whatever it is you use to rid yourself of negativity make it a daily habit. you need to let go of bad energy regularly to keep your spirit clear.

why is this so important?

the world works on energy. when you’re constantly sharing your moves with others, you’re leaving yourself open to their bad vibes. not everyone wants to see you win, and some people might even secretly wish for your downfall. you can’t let that influence your life. also understand that it’s a privilege to be with you. It’s a privilege to be your friend. It’s a privilege to be in the same space as you so please if someone is acting up and is trying to make you feel bad, get rid of them as soon as possible. on top of that, just so you know, evil eye is very real. so please protect yourself from it and a lot of times. It’s these kinds of blockages that stops us from achieving our goals and dreams 

but here’s the kicker: if you’re putting bad energy out there, if you’re secretly wishing for someone else to fail, guess what happens? it reflects right back on you. if you’re praying for someone’s downfall, you’re attracting your own. seriously, what you put out into the universe always comes back, and karma doesn’t miss a beat. if you’re the person trying to take others down or wishing ill will, your life will start crumbling. it’s that simple. i know people that bad things, and they will continue to do bad things to you, but keep in mind that self love is the highest form of protection so they won’t be able to get to you. if you have immense amount of self-love, as well as if you practice, protection, and grounding on daily basis. so you don’t have to go out there and wish that everything bad happens to them. use that energy to build a better life for yourself. stop being a hater, it’s not cute. being an hater will only bring bad energy in your life.

be good to people.

don’t talk bad about others, don’t even think bad about them. if you genuinely wish good things for people, your life will align with those positive energies repeat after me “other people’s success is a proof from the universe/ god that you can have that too” negativity can’t touch you when your heart is clean and pure. when you root for others, you create a cycle of good energy that bounces right back at you.

but if you’re the person who’s always gossiping, throwing shade, or wishing for someone to fall? watch how your life starts falling apart. trust me. it’s not worth it. staying pure, keeping your heart and mind clear of negativity it’s not just for your own good, it’s for your future. like seriously stop, wishing bad for other people. Because guess what karma is very real. So if you wish someone else have a bad day. girl, just be prepared to have a bad day yourself.



protection is key.

to protect yourself from all the bad energy, start wearing crystals or keep them around you (black obsidian, tourmaline etc) crystals have been used for centuries to guard against negative vibrations. find the ones that resonate with you and make them a part of your daily routine. cleanse them regularly, too.

and when you’re taking your bath, make it a ritual. add salt, turmeric, or any cleansing ingredient that feels right to you. when you’re washing away the physical dirt, you’re also washing away the negative energy you might have picked up throughout the day. make it a habit. let the water purify you.

use sage, santo polo etc to keep negative energy away from you even egg cleanse

keep your thoughts pure.

don’t just cleanse your space cleanse your mind. every thought matters. every feeling you put out into the world matters. protect your inner world because the more you focus on positivity and good vibes, the more it will reflect in your external world. keep this in mind that the more positive and nice you are the better. the more you help people god/ universe will help you, the more you. don’t let other people’s negativity make you a bad person stay pure and nice.

your energy, your peace, and your success they all start within. keep your mind clear of judgment, jealousy, and resentment. when you focus on the good, the universe will deliver it right back to you. but if you focus on the bad, on wishing others ill, you’re opening the door for the universe to serve that right back to you. it’s law.

conclusion.

so, cleanse daily. protect your energy. keep your thoughts pure, and keep your dreams to yourself. the world doesn’t need to know your every move. like there is a reason why i never told you guys, what is my ultimate goal, but i will let you know when i finally achieve it. as simple as that, don’t tell your goals, your actions, etc. unless and until it’s done once you’re done only then tell people about it because then they can’t take it away from you. so yeah, keep everything to yourself. but all your opps and friends will know your success when you manifest it with all the positive energy you’ve been building up.

there is nothing wrong in it. not telling your goals and your dreams and your plans etc. this being said you’re only saving yourself from extra criticism and extra pressure that comes with people knowing where you’re heading. because now they’ll keep asking you question and if you fail at a certain step, they will even laugh at you, so you’re just saving yourself from all those extra pressure. plus, there is nothing more sexy than being a mysterious person. who has a lot of layers and nobody knows what’s coming next? be mysterious, but do it properly. some people don’t know how to be mysterious and that just make them look dumb in my eyes. seriously, so if you’re trying to be mysterious, do it properly you know? 

you got this. now go, keep your energy high, your space clear, and your mind focused. your future’s too bright to let anyone dim it.

[chamberofthespirit]

Sweetgumballs in Folk Magic

Sweetgumballs, also known as witches burrs, are spikey seed pods that grow on liquidambar trees, which have pentagram shaped leaves. They are said to ward off evil spirits, protect agaisnt curses and hexes, attract good luck, and provide healing with headaches, toothaches, etc.

Different magical uses

~ Tailesments and Amulets:

Sweetgumballs can be carried on a person to provide protection, attract prosperity and abundance, and attract love.

~ Spells

They can be used in spells to ward off negative enegry, add extra power to a spell, break hexes and curses, can be added to witches bottles. They can be dressed in oils and herbs and place them on the path of a love interest. They can be powdered to be used in a hot foot spell.

~ Charm Bags

Place them in a charm bag with crystals and herbs to make a strong protection tailesment.

~ Altar Decorations

Place sweetgumballs on altars to keep evil spirits and unwanted guests away and draw in good luck. They can also add extra power to any altar workings.

~ Bath Products

Add to bath salts, oils, or any other body product to promote healing.

~ Home Decorations

Place sweetgumballs above doorways to ward of evil energy in the home and attract good energy. They can also be added to wreaths and wind chimes.

~ Cleansing Rituals

Burn them as part of a ritual to cleanse a person or space.

~ Fertility and Childbirth

Use them to promote fertility and healthy childbirth.

~ Stuffed Burrs

Fill them with herbs, ash, crystals, blood, knots, or affirmations into a burr and use wax to seal it up for long-term protection.

~ Communing

Use them to help with mediumship and contacting spirits.

~ Charging

Place near tools, amulets, or other magical items to charge them.

~ Offerings

Use them as offerings on a altar or within nature.

[1313ablackcat1313]

Herbs and Their Purposes

Going through some of my witchy journals and sharing things that I have collected over the years.

Amaranth: reduces swelling, helps stomach flu symptoms, repairs broken hearts Angelica: aids colic, helps hepatitis symptoms, protects your home and garden Basil: eases stomach cramps, eases insect bites and stings, helps reduce fevers, banishes negativities, aids in keeping love Bee Balm: makes a sedative tea, attracts fairies Calendula: helps gum disease, encourages psychic development Chamomile: helps insomnia, eases sores, attracts money, protects home, aids meditation Comfrey: heals wounds, bruises, and broken bones, provides travel protection Daisy: helps headaches, brings good luck Dandelion: detoxifies liver, promotes circulation, aids clairvoyance Eucalyptus: works as insect repellent, aids health, provides purification Garlic: works as a natural anti-biotic, dispels negativity, protects the house Heather: suppresses coughs, aids sleep, guard against violent crime Hyssop: aids lung ailments, used in purification baths Lavender: eases nervous tension and stress, used in healing incenses and sachets Lemon Balm: eases bee stings, headaches and colds, used in healing and friendship spells Marjoram: helps asthma symptoms, cough, strengthens intestines, eases grief, protects home Myrrh: works as a powerful antiseptic, used to consecrate and purify ritual tools Patchouli: eases dysentery, diarrhea, and nausea, wards off evil Rose: nourishes skin, purifies blood, aids in love spells Sage: eases laryngitis symptoms and stomach troubles, aids in spiritual purification, banishes evil Soloman's Seal: helps tuberculosis symptoms, helps diabetes symptoms, used in cleansing Spearmint: makes a facial astringent, used in spells for courage Star Anise: eases stomach disorders, wards off evil eye St. John's Wort: helps depression symptoms, heals wounds, banishes negativity Thyme: used as an antiseptic, if used in a pillow it wards of nightmares Witch Hazel: eases insect bites and burns, twigs used for diving, mends broken hearts Wormwood: helps ease liver and bladder symptoms, aids clairvoyance Yarrow: stimulates the liver, eases toothache, wards off negativity, repels fear Yellow Dock: purifies blood, aids in spells for happy homes

****DISCLAIMER**** Do NOT take internally with out a doctor's supervision. Misuse can be FATAL. Do not ingest if allergic. Please see a doctor for all ailments described above.

[theconstitutionisgayculture]

It must really suck to be a YA villain. Like, there you are, your evil armies are winning, the rebels are dying, and the teenager prophesized to bring you down is bound and gagged at your feet. The teenager's love interest is slowly bleeding to death in the corner, your death machine is almost fully powered up, and you're just about to finish your monologue. The one you've been really looking forward to ever since the third time the teenager foiled your plans.

Suddenly, the Powerful and Ancient Mythical Sword that hasn't been seen in 3000 years pops out of thin air. You recognize it at once. You've been looking for it all your life. You stare in awe at the Sword, every ounce of your attention focused on the one thing you never thought you'd actually find.

In that split second of inattention, the teenager's best friend, who you were pretty sure you decapitated earlier, leaps out of the shadows. Their head is sewn back on and they has a Potion of Untying Ropes in their hand. The very same potion that idiot Duke Second Incommandly swore up and down he'd locked in his most secure safe. The best friend throws the Potion at the teenager. It shatters, untying their ropes instantly. The teenager springs to their feet and the sword, your sword, flies into their hand. Their hand is glowing green. He must have bathed in the Secret River of Controlling the Ancient Sword! But you also bathed in the Secret River of Controlling the Ancient Sword back when you thought the Powerful and Ancient Mythical Sword was in that inn run by the teenagers recently rediscovered middle aged relative. Why isn't it heeding your mental command? Could you have accidentally bathed in the False Secret River of Controlling the Ancient Sword That Looks Exactly Like The Real River But Doesn't Actually Control Anything? But Duke Second Incommandly swore up and down that he'd found the real river!

While you're cursing the Duke, who is even now leading your evil army in a suicidally overconfident charge up the Hill of Everyone Who Charges Up This Hill Dies and Their Army Gets Eaten By the Tragically Oppressed and Adorable Gobblemonster, the teenager charges you, sword raised high. Their blow strikes true! The Powerful and Ancient Mythical Sword cuts through your Shadow Armor and plunges deep into your torso. But, you cry out, you turned your torso into a ghost during a ritual when you were still an Attractive But Troubled Youth! The rumors of the Sword eating ghosts must be true! You must flee. All that's saving you now is the teenager's morality resurfacing just in time to keep them from striking the final blow killing you. You summon up your last bit of power and bind your ghost torso to the teenager's lifeforce. Ha! Now no one can kill you unless they want their precious savior to turn into a ghost torso too.

While the teenager struggles with the Weight of Your Tortured Ghost Torso, you flee. In the distance, you see the last remnants of your evil army, along with your death machine, swallowed up by the Gobblemonster.

Oh well, you think. At least you managed to kill the teenager's love interest this time.

You take one last look back to savor the anguish on your sworn enemy's face when they realize the love of their life has died and nothing they can do will save them...

Only to see the teenager scream in rage and break the Sword over their knee! They, and you, are stunned into shocked and surprised disbelief as there, inside the broken blade, lies the Mystic Wand of Bringing One Person Back to Life Before Destroying Itself Forever! You watch in dismay as the teenager uses it to raise their love interest from the dead as the ghostly manifestations of the teenagers Dead Parents and Other Assorted Parental Figures silently forgive him for not using the wand to bring them back to life instead. The teenager can only see them because you passed your Ghost Seeing Powers along with your Ghost Torso. The teenager cries in joy at seeing their parents for the first time since you murdered them.

Victory has once again turned into defeat.

This isn't even the fifth time this exact thing has happened to you.

[greenwitchcrafts]

Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis

Known as: compass weed, dew of the sea, elf leaf, guardrobe, incsensier, labonotis, Mary's cloak, polar plant, sea dew, stella maria & star of the sea.

Related plants: A member of the mint family Lamiaceae that includea basil, mint, sage, savory, marjoram, oregano, hyssop, thyme, lavender & perilla. As well as other herbs such as catnip, salvia, bee balm, wild dagga, and oriental motherwort. 

Parts used: Leaves, roots, sprigs & essential oils from the flowers.

Habitat and cultivation: This evergreen  shrub is native to the Mediterranean Portugal, and northwestern Spain.

Plant type: Perennial

Region: Zone 6 with occasional winter protection & zones 7-10

Harvest: Anytime but avoid taking more than 1/3 of the plant when you do.

Planting tips: Rosemary has a low germination rate and slow to sprout, try using cuttings or buy from a nursery if you have problems. Keep in full sun with a well drainer container & let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

Medicinal information: Over the years rosemary was used to relieve muscle pain, repelling insects, improve memory, boost the immune system & promote hair growth.

Cautions: While safe, ingesting excessive amounts of rosemary can be dangerous and lead to vomiting, coma & pulmonary edema.

ROSEMARY IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR EVERY HERB

Magickal properties

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Sun

Element: Fire

Deities: Faeries, Elves, sea spirits & Virgin Mary

Magickal uses:

•Place in dream pillows to prevent nightmares

• Burn as an incense to purify & remove negativity

• Hang above your doorways to drive away unwanted visitors

• Add to a ritual bath for cleansing & removing hexes

• Use as a substitute for frankincense

• Plant in your garden to attract fae

• Carry a sprig to protect against the evil eye

• Keep under your bed to ensure fidelity & a happy relationship

• Wash your hands with a rosmary infusion before healing magick to increase potency

• Wear in a satchet or amulet to improve memory recall & improved health

• In Italian folk magic, it is cooked with to alleviate sadness  grief

• Rosemary may be used as incense at rituals of death and dying. It may be cast upon the coffin when it is slowly lowered into the burial place. With this we will all remember with love and fondness the one who is passing into another life, and thus we will also remember that we inhabit mortal bodies as we walk through the earth

[entomo-maniac]

Hi, can u explain more about Abel and skin care? and everything about cosmetics in Mesopotamia, actually

This will be long, so... (prepare for me yapping about ancient cosmetics).

Able's article, which points out that it is of Mesopotamian origin, is the basis for starting this. One of the most common practices was bathing, as it was believed that a dirty and smelly body was impure. They used soap made out of animal fat, ashes, and water. It should be noted that this type of soap dries the skin, which is why body oils were also given importance. Their use also served to combat the arid climate of the area.

Regarding eye makeup, called šembi, it was used more medicinally than cosmetically, using it to protect themselves from what they called the "evil eye" (aka conjunctivitis), made from charred frankincense resin and later from powdered antimony or lead compounds.

In the case of men, the majority* took good care of their beards, oiled, curled, dyed, and perfumed them (referring to the Akkadians, Babylonians, and Assyrians; some Sumerians used them and others shaved them completely).

As for lipstick, relatively recently a tomb was found where there was a mixture that was presumed to be used to tint the lips, composed mainly of minerals that produce a red pigment, in addition to waxy substances of vegetable origin and other organic substances.

Perfumes, on the other hand, made from tree resins, were more used for rituals.

As you can see, cosmetics in Mesopotamia were a mixture of hygiene, medicine, rituals, and beauty. Able is related here because it would be part of his culture, and I highly doubt that he would neglect it, considering that he frequently speaks in different Sumerian dialects.

That's it.

[teafangirl]

🌹—————

Angel

—-

reader X Castiel from Supernatural

Summary: you weren’t anyone special , you prayed, hoping it was enugh, that GOD, could hear , not that you thought he would solve all your problems right then, you knew his path had challenges you had to face , but you started to lose confidence in yourself. one night when your life had gotten really rough , you found yourself in tears the ones above heard you , and someone came to your side !

Warnings: fluff, this isn’t set in any particular season of Supernatural! Use of “Y/N”. I don’t mean to disrespect anything. Now please enjoy! Comfort, healing!

A./N: This is my first Supernatural fic. I apologize if I write Cas wrong or any of the other characters. I don't own the rights to supernatural, obviously, so all rights are reserved to their owners. Furthermore, I also apologize for any spelling errors, if you enjoy this one and want more let me know. Anyway without further a due enjoy! Lastly the three pictures are from the web and belong to their original owners!

————

Context

it had been a long, stressful week! Your emotions had been put through the ringer, like mainly it was something you could handle, but sometimes it felt like no one quite understood what you here going through, all together you’ve had many challenges, been through many hard times. You were raised on the religion of Christianity, you believed in GOD, prayed, when you felt it would help. But sometimes it all overwhelmed you, your mind seemed compacated to say the least !

———

It was Friday night, around 9 pm, you had finished your dinner, taken a nice hot bath. Everyone else in the house was already asleep, it was just you and silence, there was the occasional sound of cars passing by your bedroom window, or a dog barking away, but those sounds never lasted long. You normally went to sleep around this time of night, but tonight was different, you found yourself sitting on your bed, hands folded and elbows on your knees. It was a ritual that you grew up doing, it did help, “take away my stress, help me to rest” that sentence was always said when you performed your prayers. “May your will be done, lead me from temptation, away from evil “ . you knew these lines , you always said them it was a routine but tonight was different.

you found yourself unable to utter a single sentence as tears broke from your eyes, you had tried to hold all the emotions in , to stay happy , to be there for others since most needed you to be happy. tears continued falling, you closed your eyes, and broke the potion your hands where in and brought them to your face , your mind subconsciously ignored the sudden sound of wings flapping, and the gust of wind that knocked a few items of shelves and made your hair a total mess! suddenly you felt a warm hand on your shoulder, it felt grouping. you opened one eye, thinking it was a family member who had heard you crying but instead you saw the tip of a trench coat . as your eyes fallowed the trench coat upward you found yourself met with blue eyes !

“Hello Y/N”

the sudden voice startled you a little. it sounded soft, gravelly calm. your mind knew you should probably be scared or worried about the person who probably just broke into your house and is now standing in your room but something told you the man before you had no intention to hurt you!

“who are you ?”

your voice came out soft , filled with ceriouisoty. you fallowed the man as he walked over to the space on the bed in front of you and sat , facing you . you got a better view of his black hair , trench coat , blue tie and his blue eyes which you couldn’t help but look directly into .

“i am Castiel , an angel !”

your eyes widened at the last word he spoke , you believed in Angels like you believe in the divine . however you never thought you would ever see a Angel, a real Angel sitting before you. Castiel sighed before he continued speaking.

“i was in heaven , and heard your prayer, you where crying so i thought i would come help !”

That wasn’t far from the truth , Cas had been in heaven looking for a Angel in particular, it had only been a few months since he had the honor to grip Dean Winchester tight , and raise him from perdition, he had been working with the brothers ever since. un known to them at this time, they had graced the Angel with a new outlook on everything including a small growing love for humanity, and them! Cas had told Dean a few days prior to this that he , had thought about disobedience from heaven , in order to help them stop the apcalips. Cas still wasn’t sure about where he fit yet but when he heard Y/Ns cry’s he knew the other Angels where to busy to help not that they would , except him of course. he was pulled from his thoughts when Y/N spoke once more. her voice was soft, and calm .

“why me ?”

Castiel took a moment to decide what to tell her , he soon decided on something he thought would make her feel heard.

“i felt your pain, you needed someone , i am here for you!”

Those words made “Y/N” smile , it was true she did need someone , however she didn’t expect what Castiel did next , he moved a little closer to her , she gave him a smile.

“are all Angles as nice as you ?”

“many take their jobs too seriously “

Cas had decided to twist the truth , something he had seen Dean or Sam do a couple of times so far however the brothers usually out right lied or didn’t tell each other at all a perfect example was Sam and Ruby . Sam had neglected to tell Dean about Ruby , soon he would find out about that and the demon blood as well!

“do you wish to talk about what’s troubling you Y/N?”

you took a deep breath as you nodded to the Angels question. you let the tears return to your eyes, as you spennt the next hour or more talking about your problems. time seemed to sit still , Cas never took his eyes from yours , sometimes you wondered if he was actually listening but something told you he was taking in every word, no one had ever done that for you , you felt yourself unimportant but with Castiel you felt heard , safe , warm , peaceful like all your troubles were fading, you felt comfortable telling him everything, and he listened! you once thought of yourself as just a girl floating through life but this Angel was giving you exactly what you needed. when you took a deep breath indicating you where finished, Castiel extended his arm , inviting you to come closer to him , you did and felt a warm bunch of feathers touch the other side of your body as what you guessed could only be his wings folded around the two of you.

His wings felt light , warm , soft , like a blanket or really a Anglic blanket next thing you knew your head was leaned against Castiel’s shoulder, his arm was wrapped around your back while his other hand grasped your hand. your mind felt clear.

“is that better?”

you nodded to Castiel.

“your wings , their so pretty soft .”

that earned you a smile from Cas who rubbed his thumb against your hand , while you took deep breaths , you felt your entire body relaxing, you felt like you could fall asleep.

“you should rest Y/N, you’ve had a long week!”

“you should rest Y/N, you’ve had a long week!”

you moddded at his point, but you didn’t want this moment to end , you didn’t want to wake up and castiel to be gone ! this handsome Angel made you feel safe safer then you had felt in a long time .

As if he could read your mind he smiled .

“i will still be here!”

you looked up into his blue eyes and smiled , Castiel bent down and gently placed a kiss on you in forehead , a kiss which sent your heart racing, and with that your eyes cloerd , you felt the Angel holding you tightly before you fully surrendered to sleep !

“i will come, when you pray , you will always have me !”

you herd whispered in your ear , making you smile in your sleep , knowing you had a Angel watching over you , quite literally!

The end 💙

☕️

[sapphire-weapon]

I think Eagleone is canon because in the game something really happens between them and it’s very noticeable, but I’m wondering why you consider them canon?

Because the romantic nature of their relationship is baked into the thematic framework of the narrative. In order for RE4make to achieve what it's trying to do with its storytelling, Leon and Ashley's relationship has to be read as romantic.

Resident Evil 4 Remake is Resident Evil 4 re-imagined as a fairy tale. Survival Horror is the genre of the gameplay of RE4make, but Horror Fantasy is the genre of its story.

RE4make contains fantastical elements that were not present in OG, including but not limited to:

Leon and Ada's plaga hallucinations (Ada's especially looks like it has a magical effect)

The magical blue fire that keeps the Armadura at bay

The cursed black water in the castle (irrespective of whether it's tied to the mold in RE7; it's still attributed to turning men mad and is treated like a magical reagent during the ritual)

Ashley getting possessed -- not Saddler using her plaga to manipulate her body (which he also does in OG) but actually physically possessing her and speaking through her mouth and seeing through her eyes

New enemies that invoke the imagery of Minotaurs

On top of that, one of the major themes of this story is: folklore, story books, and fairy tales. We see it show up not just in the characters but also in the lore of the world itself. Just to name a few examples off the top of my head, we have:

Luis's parallels with and direct verbal references to Don Quixote

The folklore of "madness" spread around the villagers that Mendez tried to quell panic of

Historic folklore from when the people of Valdelobos thought of Las Plagas as demons

Salazar's invocation of Pulgarcito (which is a Spanish fairy tale)

Literal storybooks that you find throughout the game, like the one in Mendez's house and the holy scripture (complete with a colored illustration like a child's picture book) in the castle

And, most of all -- and, most importantly for our purposes -- "The Knight and the Princess Fair" allegory that gets repeated over and over throughout the game centering entirely on Leon and Ashley.

And it's not just Salazar being a crazy asshole, either. Luis also refers to Leon as "Prince Charming," beckons him to the ballroom, and tells him not to be late for the dance.

The story itself also has an element of "true love conquers all" in it, as both Leon and Ashley literally pull off the impossible. Leon manages to fight off Saddler's influence (something that we've seen no other character manage to do -- and Leon's plaga is very advanced at this point) while he's holding Ashley in his arms. And tiny little 120lb Ashley manages to heft all 200+lbs of Leon and his gear up onto Luis's surgical chair all by herself in order to remove his plaga. They saved each other for each other and only got through this ordeal because the other person was there with and for them.

This narrative is then reinforced by overtly romantic imagery, like Leon appearing to Ashley bathed in moonlight, and Ashley wistfully looking to him off towards the horizon, hands clasped to her chest, as embers float around her like fireflies.

It also invokes the imagery of classic romance stories and fairy tales, including:

Several literal princess carries

Prince Phillip about to break the spell on Sleeping Beauty with true love's first kiss

The Prince approaching Snow White's altar

Leon kneeling before Ashley like a knight does his queen

Romeo and Juliet's very famous balcony scene

Leon extending a hand to Ashley as though he's asking her to dance, not once but twice

And in case all of that wasn't enough -- if you somehow still didn't catch it, Capcom included a set of matching alternate costumes for Leon and Ashley literally called "Romantic."

I don't know how much more explicit they could've been about this, short of having a big, sweeping kiss scene -- especially when you consider that absolutely none of the above was present in OG. None of those scenes happen in OG at all.

And this isn't even taking into account that the devs restructured the plot of OG to follow the story outline of a romance novel beat-for-beat -- nor the overt sexual imagery associated with specific lines of dialogue between Leon and Ashley. And even if you ignore the fairy tale aspect all together, Leon and Ashley's relationship is intrinsically tied to the theme of teamwork, and there's a romantic element about how that is portrayed, too.

So, sure. You could look at RE4make as a story about a man who's just doing his job and saves the president's daughter because idk he's a badass and that's just what he does. And he overcomes his trauma about Raccoon City because he actually saved a person's life finally, and it wouldn't have mattered who it was; it just happened to be Ashley.

Sure.

You could.

But you miss the fucking point of what the storyteller(s) were trying to do.

You miss the intention of the developers paying homage to RE4OG being such a huge part of so many people's childhoods by turning the story into a fairy tale.

You miss the parallels of Leon becoming a broken husk of a person because of failing re: Ada, and Leon finding his smile and his kindness again through Ashley.

It leaves you with a shallow story where shit just kind of happens and Leon's a cool dude who overcomes the odds all on his own because he's so cool and strong.

And you'll never be able to convince me that that's how the devs wanted their story to be read. Not with the deliberate layering of themes and imagery and allegory that they've folded into the narrative.

And you'll never convince me that all of this was just a coincidence, either.

Eagleone is canon -- just not canon in the way that most people tend to think of it.

Because the one thing missing from RE4make's fairy tale is that Leon and Ashley don't live happily ever after. They don't end this game a couple, and they'll never be together in the future.

Because while RE4make was a fairy tale, it was the nightmare horror version of one.

And horror stories don't get to have happy endings. That was true for Ethan and Mia in the literal storybook that was RE:Village, and it's true here for Leon and Ashley.

But that doesn't make the romance between these two characters any less real.