#the ley lines are the pentacles

[escherstrange-ffxiv]

"You want to start a Calamity? Get in line, bitch." -Actual RP quote

FINALLY commissioned a tarot card from @mafumafuriah ! She put in so many tiny details from my info sheet that it's nice to just pull up the pic and stare at it wondering what symbolism I'll find today. 10/10 would save up for another commission.

Anyway here's Escher as The Magician because what else.

[kimothyroll]

Day 9

Day total:  +1 Theoretical, -1 Practical

Page of Pentacles

First lesson of the day is crafting. I'm set on redeeming myself in this class.  My enthusiasm, while engrossed in crafting, inadvertently leads to an accidental discovery. Fuelled by passion and a desire to experiment, I stumble upon a unique combination of crafting techniques that result in an unexpected and valuable creation. The unintended breakthrough becomes a testament to the unpredictable yet exciting nature of magical exploration and craftsmanship. I hope I can keep this up!

+1 Theoretical

Seven of Pentacles

Nope, I can't. Spurred on by a  misplaced sense of confidence, I make a determined effort to focus on details during crafting, understanding that oversight has been a stumbling block for me in the past. However, this intense focus on the minutiae inadvertently leads to missing a critical crafting deadline. Despite my best intentions, the overemphasis on details proves to be a double-edged sword, again highlighting the delicate balance required in navigating the intricate world of magical craftsmanship.

-2 Theoretical

The Star

We haven't started our astrology studies yet, but I know they're coming soon. I joke with my classmates about it being easier if the stars were out during the day. Then, my brain goes off on a tangent, and I begin to notice that there actually are stars visible in the day, albeit well hidden.

Studying the ones I can see, I unexpectedly discover a powerful astral alignment. In a moment of magical revelation, I discern a previously unnoticed celestial pattern that aligns with specific ley lines within The Midnight Court. This astral alignment holds hidden significance, promising a potent convergence of magical energies that could potentially unlock new possibilities or reveal ancient secrets within the mystical realm of the school. The daytime discovery adds a layer of intrigue to my magical journey, showcasing that the secrets of the cosmos can be unveiled even when the sun graces the sky.

+2 Theoretical

Three of Swords

Despite grappling with imposter syndrome during our casting practice today, I manage to overcome self-doubt and deliver a performance that surprises even myself. The internal struggle with feeling like an imposter is overshadowed by a series of successful spell casts. While acknowledging my past mistakes, the positive outcome of today's practice serves as a reminder that growth and proficiency in magic are an ongoing journey, and occasional missteps do not define my overall capabilities.

+1 Practical

The Tower

I need to remind myself of that as I have yet another accident. Not in class thankfully, but Celestia and I are using our evening to continue our exploration.

While investigating a hidden chamber, I inadvertently trigger a mystical trap, leading to a surge of unpredictable magical energy. Luckily nothing to bad seemed to happen- at least that we can see- but it's a stark reminder of how easily things can go wrong if we're not careful.

-2 Practical

[demonecelestiale]

come inserisco le ley lines nei pentacles?

[brooklynislandgirl]

Advent Calendar: Day 23 @tangleweave​

Beth promises whatever divine being might still care enough to listen that somehow, some day, she will repay Skutt with the respect and admiration she deserves. Oh, Beth knows the ship is a non-gendered entity, but the voice she hears, then manifestation in her mind that comes with it has certain very feminine traits. But more to the point, Skutt has been very kind in helping her work away right behind, around, and sometimes under Bill. Skutt has covered for her, has helped her cannibalise and repurpose some of the Borealis, and has helped her settle into the generous quarters that Bill has offered her for the duration of her stay. Day or night ~her diurnal clock is now off and she’s not really sure how Time flows without being able to really perceive it as she can other things~ she’s tinkered away in her rooms and with fortuitous warnings from the ship, she’s largely been able to conceal her work from Bill. And as she thinks of it that way, she realises how sinister that sounds. Like she’s some kind of horrible Mata-Hari or other saboteur, when in reality Beth is simply trying to surprise Bill with a sliver of her homeworld. She doesn’t know how to explain the hole deep in the pit of her soul that aches for what she’s missing who knows how far away she is from her cabal, her family. It would also seem so insensitive even if she could find the right words, considering his entire world is gone and everyone he’s ever known or might come to know are in cold storage for lack of a better phrase, as gone from him as her ohana is from her. She doesn’t know what Korbin was like. To hear Bill tell it, she imagines it might now be something like the Mars that the astronomers talk about which is vastly different from how the Traditions view it. She also imagines that once it was more like Mars as the shade realm of Forces. Once inhabited, Mars has a penumbra, where one can easily see the ruins of canals running along old ley lines. But the air is thin now and severe dust storms are a hazard that can trap or kill the unwary. She doesn’t know what became of the Martians, but now the chantry of Doissetep has overtaken the ruins of the largest city. In an effort to study and preserve what remains, both the Etherites and oddly the Dreamspeakers have established a separate colony, Marsbase One, known better as Bradbury. Then, on the moon Phobos there’s a small defensive installation, there to prevent Technocracy infiltration. Maybe when they find a way for her to get home, the chantry might allow Bill’s people citizenship. Maybe they can share secrets and trade technology, and just maybe…Bill and his people can really go home and reclaim their world. Yes, that’s a lot of maybes, but Beth is nothing if not a creature of hope. But that’s an absolute digression. She had been wondering though if he has experienced the changing of seasons, if he’s ever celebrated them? If he’ll even understand the little plateau she’s about to reveal with a fire burning merrily in digital, or how the console lights gleam like the ones on Christmas trees back home. Will he try to put the empty stockings on, or does he have something similar? She’s not sure but she’s excited to find out. Doing her level best, there’s fresh fruit she’s grown ~at an accelerated rate, yes, but it’s the thought that counts~ and some sweets that Skutt has replicated, swearing they’re Bill’s favourites. At least a couple of them are blue and unnaturally so. She’s knitted Bill a large stuffed teddy bear so that he doesn’t feel so quite alone at night, and that is in the single wrapped and ribboned box on the metal tree made from scraps and wires with a wonky little star that looks more pentacle than celestial body. Bristling with excitement and joy, she grins. “Okay, we’re here and you can uncover ya eyes now.” When he does and looks on the little corner of her quarters, she presses her cheek into one of his massive arms, little fingers squeezing where they land. “As we say back home? Mele Kalikimaka, Bill of Korbin!”

[fernthewhimsical]

Witchcraft "Lesson Plan" Part 3

More info on this plan and how to use it here Part 1 Part 2

Below the cut you will find: XII Ritual Tools XIII Basic Ritual Magic XIV Types of Magic: attracting and repelling magic XV Types of Magic: Ceremonial magic and Talisman magic XVI Types of magic: Sympathetic magic and Nature magic XVII Types of Magic: Divination Magic XVIII Types of Magic: Beyond the Basics

XII Ritual Tools

the What, why, who, where, and when of ritual tools

Primary Tools: athame, book of shadows, wand, chalice, and pentacle

Secondary Tools: boline, broom, cauldron, cords, staff, sword

Other tools: incense holder, the scourge, sickle, elemental and deity representations, etc.

Keeping and taking care of tools

Psychodrama

XIII Basic Ritual Magic

the three C’s: Cleansing, Consecrating, and Charging

Spiritual Self-defense

Basic Spellcraft (writing your own spells)

Magical alphabets

Trancework

Personal deity vs. deity for a specific goal

XIV Types of Magic: attracting and repelling magic

What is attracting magic?

What is repelling magic?

Different types and examples

Important works/influences

How to perform an effective attracting of repelling spell

Healing magic: details and techniques

XV Types of Magic: Ceremonial magic and Talisman magic

History of Ceremonial magic

Important works/influences

Basics of Ceremonial magic

History of Talisman magic

Talisman vs. Amulet

Sigils and Bindrunes

How to make a talisman or amulet

XVI Types of magic: Sympathetic magic and Nature magic

Herbal magic

Crystal magic

Tree magic

Weather- and seasonal magic

Sun- and Moon magic

cycles of the day/ the year/ the moon/ astrology

Planetary magic and correspondences

Animal magic

Color magic

Candle magic

Ley lines and places of power

Alchemy

Astrology

Poppet magic

Using blood in ritual

XVII Types of Magic: Divination Magic

Tarot and Oracle Cards

Runes

Pendulums and dowsing

Scrying

Ouija- and Spiritboards

Palmreading

Numerology

XVIII Types of Magic: Beyond the Basics

Astral Travel

Shapeshifting

Aspecting Deity (deity possession)

Using fiction in Ritual

Pop-culture magic

Mental rituals/temples

Techno- and Cybermagic

Traditional magic

Art magic

[moodboardinthecloud]

The Cathars – persecuted for truth?

In Metaphysics, Philosophy and Traditional Wisdom by Jacqui BushellMarch 6, 20184 Comments

In medieval times, the Cathars, a spiritual faith in southern France that practised hands-on healing, pacifism and the equality of women, were severely persecuted for their beliefs. Their principles, many now believe, were part of an underground river of teachings, the ‘Way of love’.

Imagine this…

Montsegur 1244

The winter sky hangs low and grey. The wind is freezing, biting through your thin clothes. You ignore your hunger and try to comfort the others, your community, here on the heights of this mountain in southern France. You’re been held here in siege, a few hundred souls, over an interminable nine months.

The valley below your fortress refuge is overflowing with 10,000 soldiers and churchmen. They call you all heretics and sentence you to burn. The children and the others who do not choose to make the same shocking stand as you do, escaped over the past few weeks, making their way down the steep cliff sides. You, who know this land so well, could also have made the same choice.

Even last night, a final three left, taking with them your daughter and sacred texts. Nothing remains now except your final preparation and to help the others. You offer the Consolamentum, a healing transmission of light to all those who request it, then you and the remaining 224 Cathars begin singing as the soldiers break down the door. All of you sing, an act of faith and love, as you are pushed down the steep path. You sing as you walk into the barricade. As the fire is lit, you continue to sing. You sing in love. Always.

Who were the Cathars?

The ruined walls of the great stone fortress of Montsegur in southern France, loom above me as I lay on the soft grass surrounded by wildflowers and spring breezes. I gaze down the impossibly steep cliffs into the beautiful valleys of the Languedoc region. How on earth did the Cathars escape down there, I wonder? Curving ridges of mountains like the spine of a great dragon, snake across the land. Rivers shaded by green trees and medieval villages are dotted through the valleys. Cowbells tinkle. Great peace pervades me and I drop deeper into the embrace of this beautiful land.

The stories of the Cathars, or ‘Good people’, have always moved me profoundly. Catharism was a peaceful, egalitarian, spiritual movement that spread through the south of France on a wave of immense popularity through the 12th and 13th centuries. The Roman Church declared them heretics and began a crusade that amounted to genocide. The Montsegur siege in 1244, effectively ended the Cathar resistance. Villages and cities were ravaged, with tens of thousands slaughtered. Those remaining fled south to the caves at Ussat, where they continued to teach and be of healing service. Their initiation cave can still be visited. It is a remarkable place, not only for the energy and acoustics, but for a great dolmen stone altar inside the cave.

The power of Montsegur

Many ley lines, Wouivre (French for snake or dragon lines), cross here at Montsegur as well as at other mountaintop Cathar castles, like Queribus and Peyrepertuse. The area is bounded by five mountains, energetically creating a pentacle, which mirrors the cosmic trajectory of Venus. It forms a powerful chalice of the divine feminine. Local stories, statues and stained glass windows abound, telling of Black Madonnas, Mary Magdalene, of women who teach, heal and bless.

There is a rich river of teachings about recognising and experiencing the love and divinity in every form of life without need for priests; from the Isis priestesses who created a temple at Rennes Les Chateau, the Druids whose island in the Aude river near Alet Les Bains still harbours amazing energies and the Cathars who carried on the same tradition, the ‘Way of Love’.

After such a history of great suffering I feared I would be overwhelmed by grief by what is held in the land, when I finally arrived at the mountain fortress of Montsegur. Instead, something extraordinary happened. As I walked across the wildflower strewn meadows, in the shadow of the hill, to the ‘burning field’, I suddenly felt joy arise within me; an uplifting, immense joy. Pain has not been held in the land here.

Through their song and forgiveness of their captors, the Cathars transformed the suffering. Every group my partner and I have taken to Cathar sites feels the same response, joy and the presence of limitless Grace. Montsegur embodies peace beyond understanding, a tangible experience of beloved. I understand more of the ‘Way of love’ now. A lark sings nearby and soft light shines on an abundance of crimson roses climbing over rocks. Something within me expands and I feel radiant. Joy fills me.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jacqui Bushell

Jacqui Bushell has had a long heart connection with the beautiful lands of southern France and their evocative history of the Divine Feminine. Local stories and legends tell of Druids, priestesses, mystics and healers, as well as Mary Magdalene living and teaching here for many years. In medieval times, the Cathars, a spiritual faith which practised hands on healing, pacifism and the equality of women, were severely persecuted for their beliefs. Their principles many now believe, were part of an underground river of teachings, the ‘Way of Love’. When Jacqui visited the fortress of Montsegur in the Languedoc, she was surprised by the strength of her response.

https://livingnow.com.au/cathars-persecuted-truth/

[classicalsatanism-blog]

CLASSICAL SATANISM TEXT 18 The Black Cord Of Satan And The Serpent Of Torment

Here we focus on a Black Magick Working which is one of mystery, diversity and insidious intent. It is focused on and empowered by the projection of will, the Power of Satan, a revised type of Image Magick and Hexcraft and I know of it being utilized in at least three different ways. The form in which it is put forth here is to Ritually Charge the Black Cord as a Serpent of ill intent which is then to be buried near the home of the intended victim, the Cord is to be Charged with the Power of Satan and forged of the energy of the Serpent Power which runs through the Spiritual Bloodline of Our Infernal Father. That Bloodline is the Leviathanic Bloodline, the Serpentine Bloodline of the Demonic Legion. Despite Leviathan being spoke of as a Sea Monster or giant Demonic Serpent it is in fact an energy source which runs from Satan, through His Demons and all things cultivated from those Demons. Even elements of the World upon which we live holds this Leviathanic Power source, the Ley Lines within the earth, the Mandragora Root and other sources of natural and elemental power contain this Serpentine energy which is the Infernal Bloodline made manifest. The idea of Leviathan as a Sea Monster is a misconception, the sea it occupies is the sea of the bloodline both physical and spiritual and also the sea of the subconscious which is the microcosm of the subconscious of Satan, Lord of that Bloodline. The additional elements required for this Working upon the Altar are a length of Black Cord (this should be eighteen inches long) and a Parchment Sigil of Our Lord Satan. The Devotional/Petitioning Candle is not required for this Workings as Satan is summoned within the Opening Rites always, the third Candle instead should be left unlit as it is to be used as a summoning of the aforementioned Leviathanic Power. Before The Satanic Altar the Satanist commences the Rite with the following recitation: “I Call this night upon the Darkened Force of the Bloodline of the Demonic … the Infernal Bloodline of Our Lord Satan … that which is the Leviathanic Bloodline running through the Demonic Legion and all that is made manifest from it … the Infernal Current which fuels the Black Flame of Hell … the Infernal Current which runs through the Ley Lines of the mortal dominion and the Spiritual bloodstream of those forged of the Dark Soul … the Infernal Current which rises within the Orgone and from the blood spilled in honour or fury!” The Satanist now lights the central Candle upon the Altar and continues: “I kindle this flame in Honour of that Infernal Bloodline … the Leviathanic Current which is the Bloodline of Our Father Satan Himself … I light this flame in reflection of the Black Flame of Hell which burns eternally forged from this Bloodline … Ave Satanas!” Taking the Black Cord up from the Altar the Satanist coils it upon and around The Satanic Pentacle and then places at the center of the Coiled Cord the Parchment Sigil of Satan, they focus their intention upon that Sigil allowing it to burn deep within them and they then close their eyes to witness the Sigil burnt upon their inner mind. They visualize the power from the Sigil seeping out into the Cord, awakening it with the Leviathanic Force of Satan’s Bloodline, visualize the Cord itself becoming awakened as a Black Serpent, coiled about The Satanic Pentacle … when ready they place their energy hand upon the coiled Cord and over the Sigil and recite the following words: “Awaken Serpent of Satan … born of the Bloodline of Our Infernal Father … this Cord imbued with the Power flowing forth from the Sigil of Our Father and from The Satanic Pentacle which lies at the heart of our Workings … is given transition … it becomes as the manifest Serpent of the Power of the Infernal … and within it the venom of hatred for those who are adverse to the true Monarchy of Hell is potent … awaken Dark Snake of Death … arise Black Serpent of Hexing … for your power shall soon be committed to the earth … and the venom of cursing shall run through the sphere of the one I hold in contempt … the one named (Name) … poisoning the the energy lines that run through their abode … giving access to the power of the Infernal … allowing my attacks upon (Name) to increase and take many forms … Ave Satanas!” The Sigil of Satan is removed from within the coiled Cord and placed on the Altar, then the Candle lit to summon the Leviathanic Power is placed at the center of the coiled Cord instead, the Satanist now picks up the Sigil and says: “I commit this Sigil to the flame Devoted to and in Honour of the Sacred Bloodline of Satan … as it burns may the energy of its Power be drawn into the Cord before me … into this Cord awakened as the Leviathanic Serpent … that its venom shall be as my own … and the Hexes I cast against (Name) … be harsh and swift in their gestation … Ave Satanas!” The Satanist now touches the Parchment to the flame of the Candle and allows it to drop into the Metal bowl upon the Altar saying: “The Power of the Leviathanic Bloodline is released … the Venom within the Serpent unseen shall strike out at the one named (Name) … and the visions of my imagination shall feed that Venom to give it manifestation … in the times it assails my victim (Name) … Ave Satanas!” The Satanist now uncoils the Cored from around The Satanic Pentacle and holds it before them, entwines it around their hands and embraces it as one would hold a Serpent, visualizing the Cord as the Black Serpent of Satan’s Power … when ready the Satanist recites the following: “The Cord is transformed … into the Serpent of Satan … when next the Moon falls Dark … and night veils the land … I shall release this Serpent into the earth … the earth that surrounds the homestead of (Name) … and from this Infernal Nest … shall the Serpent strike forth time and time again … by the Power of Satan and the insidious Workings of my will … Ave Satanas!” The Black Cord Of  Satan is now prepared and should be kept in a safe unseen place until the next night of the Dark Moon when it should be buried near the abode of the intended victim. Once buried the Cord acts as a Conduit for the Hexing and insidious intent of the Satanist, this can be carried out without Ritual just using the powers of imagination, visualization and channeled anger. Visualize the Serpent leaving its earthen nest and entering the home of the victim, wrapping itself around the victim’s neck as they sleep choking them …  striking out at them with venom bringing pain to the visualized part of their anatomy … entering their body coursing under their skin spreading pain and torment. Visualize it wrapped around their brain, tightening and causing agony, disabling the ability to think or concentrate. The imagination of the Satanist is the only boundaries with this Working, for the Hex shall become a constant source of torment to the victim as the Satanist wills it to be so. ©copyright2018 Brother Nemo

[erin-rn]

How to Become A Witch in Nine Easy Lessons In the 1980's it was fashionable to be interested in the New Age. This is now a dreadful faux pas within the alternative scene, and in order to be accepted in the 21st Century metaphysical social set, one must have an interest in Witchcraft or Paganism. Of course, you don't have to actually belong to a coven in order to be thought of as a Witch, you can bluff your way into being accepted as a fully fledged Witch simply by knowing a few terms and dressing accordingly. This brings us to... Rule # 1: Image is Everything. After all, what's the good of being a Witch if nobody knows you are one? You must therefore wear black at all times. If possible, stay out of the sun until you become really pale, as this makes the effect even better. For women (and adventurous males) dark eyeliner and black nail polish can enhance this look. Also wear crystals and cheap occult paraphernalia at all times, and make sure that these are as gaudy and bizarre as possible, as this can only help your image. Wearing a pentacle around your neck is an absolutely necessary accessory - the bigger the better! Capes and cloaks are optional around town - it depends on how much of a visual impact you want to make, but either of these are also crucial apparel at any ritual or gathering that you may attend. Rule # 2: Name Dropping is Good. Every serious student of The Craft (and I'm talking here about the term for Witchcraft, not macrame) knows the name Gerald Gardner. This man revitalised Witchcraft in the mid 1900's with his book about the true history of The Old Religion (some have called this book pure fiction, but only those picky few who like books to be based on facts). Real Witches however, never let historical accuracy get in the way of their spiritual path, so in conversations with other witches, quote his name as often as possible (in tones of awe) and you will always be rewarded with smiles of acceptance. Rule # 3: Past Life Name Dropping is Even Better. Tell everyone about the past life memories that have been surfacing since you began studying the Black Arts. It is especially useful to remember a past lifetime as a Witch who was killed during the Inquisition, or at least recall a lifetime as a famous occultist. My past lives have included Aleister Crowley, Cagliostro, Mandrake the Magician, and most of the cast of "Bewitched". Rule # 4: Behave Strangely. Never forget why it was that you wanted to become a Witch - yes, so that you have an excuse for strange behaviour. Previously labelled eccentric behaviour patterns can now be accepted by others if they have a reason to explain it, even if that reason for howling at full moons while naked is simply, "He/she is a Witch, that's normal for them evidently." So, don't let your friends down, behave strangely, you can get away with it now. Rule # 5: Watch Occult Movies. Make sure that you watch the movie "Warlock" lots of times to perfect those soft landings after over-indulging with the flying ointments (read as mead and weed). Rule # 6: Ready Yourself for Sex, Money and Power. Wasn't this the other reason you were drawn to Witchcraft? In the past, adepts of the occult were known to possess charismatic, lusty and powerful personas - when people find out that you are a Witch, they may automatically assume (and therefore empower you) with these same qualities. This may sound pretty good, but unfortunately in today's world, another group of people have become even more established within the realms of kinky sex sessions and unlimited power - yes, the politicians! Beware of this elitist group of power-brokers... they don't want any competition to their manipulative monopoly over the gullible public - hence the laws against Witchcraft and divination that have remained unchanged for centuries. So, if calling yourself a High Priest doesn't lead you to unlimited sex, money and power - or if it does, but you then find yourself as the target of political and legal harassment - you may have to put aside your cloak and broomstick and pick up a pin-stripe suit and a back-bench in Parliament. If you can't beat them, try bribery, then if that doesn't work... join them! Rule # 7: Atmosphere is Essential. Your home must reflect your Witchy nature. Incense must burn continuously. It's important that visitors see clouds of incense smoke billowing from a spluttering censer in the corner of your dim, dank and dusty home, so dismantle the smoke detectors and start collecting strange little bottles of exotic looking ingredients (use your imagination and label them with names like powdered bat's eyes, or dried dragon's gonads). And if you don't like housework, you can explain that the layer of dust that covers your floors and furniture helps to neutralise the highly charged psychic energy that results from your magical spells, thereby protecting your home and possessions from electromagnetic disintegration. Rule # 8: Be Patronising to Christians. In social discussions don't forget to make plenty of derogatory remarks about fundamentalist Christians, but remember to save your most biting comments for other Witches that you don't get along with. Rule # 9: Brag About Your Psychic Powers. Any self-respecting Witch will tell you that after their initiation to Witchcraft, their psychic powers awakened and their tarot cards (which they always carry with them) are now much easier to read (they now get something right once in a while). They will also tell you that they can now sense energy fields (in other words, they don't bump into things as often as they used to). Follow this example and brag about the rapid development of your psychic abilities since your initiation. If asked about your initiation ceremony, simply state that you were sworn to secrecy about it, then quickly change the subject by mentioning your newly awakened ability to detect Ley-lines, but try to remember that a Ley-line is not a queue for the after-ritual orgy! Now you know how to pass yourself off as a real Witch, so place that broomstick in a conspicuous corner (one that is not clouded by too much incense smoke); pull on those black clothes; give everyone that you meet a sinister look - and your social status will improve overnight. If you do all of this successfully, you may even find yourself with enough adoring acolytes so that you can start your own coven! Good luck and Blessed Be!

Stephen Pugh