The last week has found me dealing with the joy of having back spasms. Not really sure what I did but one evening last week the spasms were so bad that they were jolting me from my bed. Of course, I went and checked in with my doctor and he brought up the importance of making my core strong so that I wouldn’t have as many issues with my back or my knees. His suggestion struck me in multiple ways, one being the importance of having a strong foundation – core – when it comes to practicing magick.
I get so many messages from new practitioners wanting to know why their magick isn’t getting them the results they are looking for. Upon further questions they let it out that they have no real background in magickal traditions, they just bought a book from a store, thumbed to the page that had what they were looking for (usually something that is more advanced than what a beginner should be working on), and then went to town. They have no idea about how to raise energy, the importance of intent and correspondences, or how to release the energy when done. They look at spell work as something that can just happen from reading a book that they bought off Amazon. I’m not saying that this approach is 100% wrong, many of us have purchased books either online or in person,and then created magick or spellwork around what is in them, but we have a firm foundation to pull from. Let’s face it, some books are written with blinds that only experienced magicians will pick up on that allows us to get the full benefit and outcome.
Magick isn’t something that can be learned in one class or in a weekend, it is something that you are constantly perfecting and eternally learning about. You can have all the books in the world, but unless you practice those books are nothing more than dust gatherers.
Take the time to learn and be humble enough to realize that there is nothing wrong with being a beginner, we have all been there. Read outside of your tradition, each approach to magick has something important to teach you. If you have honestly tried your best and are still stuck, reach out to more experienced magicians for a different point of view.
Suffice it to say, that tonight while I am sitting with my TENS unit working on my back I will be enjoying going back to basics, there is nothing wrong with going back to the beginning; and reading Franz Barton’s ‘Introduction to Hermetics’. I’m sure I will find something that I missed the last 2 times that I read it.
This month, I used the Wild Unknown Tarot by Kim Krans. This deck possesses a strong hand-drawn aesthetic and is composed of black-and-white ink drawings with cleverly placed rainbow accents. Readers with sight problems may have difficulties with the guidebook’s handwritten font and this style choice carries over into the artist’s other projects. That said, the Wild Unknown Tarot works beautifully with its two companions, the Wild Unknown Animal and Archetypes decks. The decks support each other thematically and artistically, though readers certainly don’t need all three. I enjoyed working with them last month, and will definitely be adding them as a team to my arsenal. That said, let’s get onto July’s cards!
All Signs – Father of Wands, Aries – 10 of Cups, Taurus – The Devil, Gemini – The Sun Reversed.
All Signs – The Father of Wands – The cobra waits to strike, storing energy in its powerful coils. It does not waste its venom on false attempts, instead relying on patience for the ideal moment. While we may not find the perfect second to act this month, the cobra suggests that all signs should use their magnetism and charm to lure what they want closer throughout July — and then pounce! In other words, save up your creative enthusiasm for the right time and place.
Aries – Ten of Cups – This month sees the completion of a goal dear to your heart, Aries, and it fills you with happiness and excitement. This is an excellent emotional period for you — and a wonderful time to be near you. Good vibes roll off you in waves. Channel the power of positivity towards your next success. Ask yourself: what comes next?
Taurus – The Devil – Liar, liar, pants on fire, Taurus! Sadly, you’re only lying to yourself. The Devil card says what was once a dalliance for you has now become a dependency. In July it’s time to deal with the behaviors that hold you back, whether you are addicted to unhealthy people or substances.
Gemini – The Sun Reversed – Are you putting the summer weather to good use, Gemini? Lower energy levels this month indicate you may be having some difficulty shaking off the winter blues. The timing couldn’t be better to get a little Vitamin D from the Sun. As you soak up its rays, let them burn off some of the fog in your brain and fill you with vitality. Just remember to wear the proper sunscreen!
Cancer – 3 of Cups Reversed, Leo – 10 of Swords Reversed, Virgo – Ace of Wands, Libra – 8 of Swords, Scorpio – 4 of Pentacles, Sagittarius – The Fool Reversed.
Cancer – Three of Cups Reversed – You will have multiple opportunities to celebrate this month, Cancer, but are you truly letting your hair down? Something is stopping you from being yourself when you gather with friends and family. It keeps you from completely relaxing, from having the best time you can. In July, you have to ask yourself whether being safe is worth never being at peace.
Leo – Ten of Swords Reversed – Don’t despair, Leo. There’s nowhere to go now but up. More importantly, you know the obstacles to watch out for as you climb your way back to the top. It may still be a path lined with sharp swords, but you can make it, especially if you forgive yourself for the fall.
Virgo – Ace of Wands – July is filled with fresh ideas and projects, and the heady rush of creativity makes you want to jump in with both feet. Prioritize as best you can. As much as you want to do everything, try to remember you are only one person. What really gets your blood pumping?
Libra – Eight of Swords – You long to fly, Libra, but an obstacle stops you from spreading your wings. In July, your view of the situation shifts and you realize the risk is worth the reward. Take honest stock of the problem as you move forward, and admit if you have played any part in creating the issue.
Scorpio – Four of Pentacles – This card indicates your hard work has paid off with a time of financial security. This is definitely good news on both the career and home front, Scorpio. It took a lot of control to get to this place. The thing is, can you let go when necessary? You’ll have to decide to pull or cut strings in July.
Sagittarius – Fool Reversed – Some may look before they leap, but not you! You’re too eager to take off to worry about anything that might hinder you this July. Besides, that’s part of the learning process, right? Good thing fledglings are known for looking a little silly during their first flights. Have fun, Sagittarius! You’ll fit right in!
Capricorn – 8 of Pentacles, Aquarius – 4 of Swords R, Pisces – Mother of Swords Reversed.
Capricorn – Eight of Pentacles – In this card, a spider web snags eight ‘flies.’ The Eight of Pentacles says you will likewise have an opportunity to take advantage of your skills or artistry this month. You’re close to that next level towards mastery, but real discipline is required to overcome the hurdle, Capricorn. Don’t give up. You can do this.
Aquarius – Four of Swords Reversed – Stress from outside sources hangs over you this month, Aquarius. Make sure to take the time to rest and recuperate in July. You possess the inner strength and calm necessary to get through this hard period if you allow yourself to call upon your reserves. Meditation or breathwork could be of assistance.
Pisces – Mother of Cups Reversed – July sees you in a flap, Pisces. But before you attack be sure exactly who the wronged party is. Are your emotions clouding your insight in this situation? Ask your deepest self how to proceed before moving, or you could only make matters worse in the long run.
That brings us to a close for July. I hope you’ve enjoyed this brief look at the Wild Unknown Tarot, and that it has brought you some insight for the month ahead. If you require a more in-depth Tarot, Oracle, or Daemonic card reading, my listing is available here and on my website. I’m booking my summer readings now, so get in while you can!
To take a peek at my daily tarot journaling, check me out on Instagram. (And, of course, you can always find my books on Amazon.)
First off, I have to make mention that I tend to agree with one of my old teachers, Oliver St. John when he said, “tools belong in a shed. We use ritual implements or items”.
As I said, I do agree with that statement however, I’m just as guilty as anyone else. I find myself calling them tools just out of habit. I guess my point in bringing that up is our ritual “tools” deserve, no, demand respect. Call them what you will but treat them with respect. For this writing, I’m going to (respectfully) call them “tools”. Our tools are sacred to us. No one else should handle them unless they have your permission. Personally I would only let someone else touch them while in ritual if at all.
Before I get too far ahead of myself, let’s start with acquiring them. You probably have a good idea what you need for your rituals. If not, refer to The Complete Book of Demonolatry by S. Connolly. This is a blog post not a book so, I have to keep this condensed.
You have probably heard it is best to be gifted a specific tool or buy it yourself. You can’t buy your own tarot deck, it has to be gifted. Maybe you’ve heard, your athame has to be purchased on a full moon while wearing purple clothes, etc., etc., etc.
I tend to believe those lines of thinking is different from coven to coven. Do what feels right for you. If you are at some occult shop and a certain candle holder “speaks” to you, by all means, get it.
I tend to lean towards the belief that homemade items/tools are better. That is especially true if a fellow magician makes something homemade and gifts it to me. I treasure the time and effort they put into it and it makes that item all the more powerful in my mind during ritual. Some will disagree and say that you don’t want someone else’s energy on your tools. I disagree with that but have heard it stated.
Just for shits and giggles, let’s say you obtained a new scrying mirror for ritual use. Now what?
Well, we want to consecrate it. This part could get long. However, I again remind myself this is a blog post not a book. So I’ll give you one example and if it doesn’t suite you, feel free to look for other ways as there are a ton of them.
For my scrying mirrors, I do not want any artificial light to hit them. Nor do I want sunlight to hit them. Only moonlight and candlelight are acceptable in my world.
So, take your new mirror and wrap it in a black cloth. Leave it protected until there is a full moon. Now that we have a full moon (or maybe even a new moon), take it outside. Place it on the earth and uncover it. Let only the light from the moon reflect on the glass. Don’t let a street light hit it.
You can say a prayer over it, anoint it and even dedicate it to a specific Demon if you like. I left mine in the moonlight all night long. I had to get up before the sun to cover the mirror and take it inside.
So, now I have a scrying mirror that is special to me. I made an effort to make it special. In a sense, I put it through its own ritual. It means something to me. When I call Demons into it, it will be sacred to me. I will protect it from artificial light and use it only in ritual. The longer I follow this, the more sacred it becomes. Say I used this same mirror for ten years. Then I decide I want to pass it on to a fellow magician. I would hope they would recognize the effort, love, magick, devotion and time that I have put into this “tool” and cherish it, maybe even a little more than I did.
So, now you see why I hate to call them “tools”. It seems to diminish what they really are. It makes them sound common.
They are a magickal part of us and should be treated as such. They help us direct our energy. They help us get into the right state of mind. They help us connect to the divine. Treat them well. They demand it. Your Magick demands it. The Demonic demand it.
I was having a virtual coffee late last month when the topic of Pathworking came up. One of my friends said something to the effect of: “I know all these people who do a lot of meditation, and these alleged pathworking rituals, but they don’t seem to be getting anything from it. They’re still the same miserable, downtrodden bastards they were when they started practicing two, five, ten years ago!”
I suggested that it’s probably the fault of those of us who write the books. Let me explain. What we lay out in the books are the techniques, or the steps of ritual. But what’s often missing from the discussion is how to follow-through on the pathwork and actually apply what you’re learning from the Daemonic Divine to your life.
The solitary neo-Daemonolaters are learning from books. They don’t have a teacher to stop them and ask, “So, what did that ritual teach you about yourself?” or “Now that you’ve done the meditation, what can you do to help manifest the change in your situation?”
But let me back up. Let’s talk about how pathwork works. It goes something like this:
You do a pathworking ritual.
You have a revelation or are given some information regarding what needs to be done.
It makes you think about yourself, your views, your choices, how you treat others, how your choices affect yourself and others, and how you can change what you’re doing, or how you’re thinking, to change your situation or become a better, more enlightened human being, or whatnot.
You act on those changes that need to be made and see if the resulting manifestation has put you in a better position. (This is the follow- through.)
Lather, rinse, repeat.
That is pathwork. It’s a life-long process. It’s not: you did this pathworking meditation and it made you feel at one with [insert Daemon here]. High magick is about you ascending, becoming your higher self. It’s about finding your purpose, your place in the universe, and discovering your Great Work. Hopefully you leave each pathworking more enlightened, and hopefully able to navigate this physical world more easily than you could before. It’s all the pathworking they’ve done that makes the manifestations of low-magick seem so effortless for more experienced magicians.
There is no such thing as the one-and-done in High Magick. And you can’t effectively do 30 different pathworkings in a month with 30 different Daemons and expect to get everything from them that you need. You will have to focus on one thing at a time and see it through to completion, or at least to the point where you can go no further.
The pathworking, high-magick timeline often goes something like this:
May: Do a ritual to manifest fears that must be faced by working with [insert Daemon of choice here.] You let this sink in for the month of May, including any realizations. Pick a fear to work on and plan any magickal work for that. Perhaps draft a plan of action.
June: Implementation of the plan of action. Do something daily to change your perspective, position, relationship, etc… with regard to that fear you chose to work on.
July: Reflection and course correction. Continuation of implementation of the plan if it seems to be working, or modification if it is not. Start planning the next pathworking ritual.
August: Maybe pick another fear to work on if you’ve gone as far as you could (if you haven’t – the Daemonic has a way of letting you know that, too.)
This can go on for months and months, or perhaps it’s a shorty and only takes you a couple of weeks to manifest the change and be happy with your result. There may be additional rituals done throughout this process – but the major pathworking stuff where you’re drudging up your shit (personal hang-ups, traumas, fears, personal flaws triggered by these things, etc) — that takes longer. No one erases a fear of failure or a deep seated trauma overnight. On that same token, some people can find themselves in the thick of a single working for months, or even years. It really depends on the individual and what they’re working on. It also depends how introspective a person is, and how honest they are with themselves. The introspective will see the trail of breadcrumbs leading to the gnosis they seek rather clearly, whereas those who aren’t used to such deep self-analysis may have a hard time seeing or hearing what the Daemonic is trying to impart.
When people run about online, bragging on their pathworking, sharing superficial or shallow results, it usually suggests they rushed through it and didn’t really work through it like they should have, or that perhaps that’s all the ritual had to offer them.
Of course, I also have a few friends who tell me that I overwork some of my magick. I will repeat rituals multiple times until I *feel* I’ve gotten all I can from them. I once spent a whole year working a single ritual that most people get through in two months. Not because I wasn’t getting anything from it, but rather because I was getting so much from it that I wasn’t ready to move forward until I’d gotten all I could. If I’m getting a lot of helpful material from a single ritual, you bet I’m going to milk it until it stops giving. I have no doubt that, five or ten years from now, if I repeated the same operation, I’d get more from it that I wasn’t ready for the first time around.
This is why magick is a solitary art. The magick manifests different things for different people, and how long it takes to fully appreciate that manifestation, and work through it if necessary, is also unique to the individual. What we often get from the magick is generally what we need. If you’re not getting anything from a particular pathworking (especially if it resonates with you), it may be best to set it aside and circle back around to it at a later time. Try something else. (If you have discernment, you can discuss the matter with the Daemonic and they can hopefully guide you to a pathworking ritual that has more to offer you at this time.)
So happy pathworking, and may all of your revelations, insights, and self-work be fruitful!
Are you intrigued by the Thoth Tarot deck but puzzled by its surrealistic symbolism? Then let me introduce you to a modern reinterpretation of the Thoth system, the Urban Tarot. Here, artist Marie Brennan updates the classic Thoth imagery to relocate it to an American metropolis. Luckily, readers need not live in the United States to appreciate the Urban Tarot’s charm. The landmarks and characters Brennan chose manage to strike a universal appeal — as long as you’re comfortable with urban living! This deck isn’t for those who feel we must flee the city to find our power, or who believe we must only seek nature in the woods. It emphasizes that both magick and the untamed elements are wide awake within our city landscapes. My lone complaint is that the Swords lean far closer to dream-like visuals of the original Thoth deck, which may make that suit more difficult to interpret for some readers. However, printed keywords help as a starting point. Call me sacrilegious, but I find myself picking up the Urban Tarot more often than Harris and Crowley’s traditional Thoth deck as days go by.
Center: 8 of Wands (All Signs). Clockwise from Top Left: Hanged Man (Aries), High Priestess (Taurus), Princess of Cups (Gemini), Prince of Wands (Cancer), Eight of Swords (Leo), Prince of Cups (Virgo), Hierophant (Libra), Aeon (Scorpio), Prince of Disks (Sagittarius), Prince of Wands (Capricorn), Five of Swords (Aquarius), Five of Wands (Pisces).
All cards – Eight of Wands – Swiftness – This card may depict a bicycle rushing forward, yet decisions in June must not be made in haste. Choices surround you this month, with everyone offering a different opinion on the path you should take. But another option remains! Keep your eyes on the road and continue pedaling. Handle one bump at a time, and don’t judge your mileage against that of anyone else. This is your journey. You are in charge of planning the rest-stops, not anyone else.
Aries – The Hanged Man – This deck uses the urban landscape as our symbolic backdrop and roadmap. The Hanged Man suggests you have your map for June turned upside down, Aries. You need to tackle the situation that has stumped you with fresh eyes and unlearn what you think you know. Let go of your sense of expertise. It may feel like a blow to the ego, but you’ll grow into an even greater knowledge about yourself and the world around you if you explore the problem like an amateur.
Taurus – The High Priestess – When the Eight of Wands presents a multitude of choices to all signs, you are tasked with turning inward to make your decisions, Taurus. Outside options and opinions will assail you in June. Trust in yourself and listen to your inner needs and desires when it comes to making these important choices. Now is a time for meditation and reflection. They will guide you towards your next destination at the pace appropriate for you.
Gemini – Princess of Disks – The Kindergarten Teacher – In this deck, the Princess of Disks nurtures and protects small, growing things – physical or not. This card implies a new beginning of some sort this month, Gemini. A fresh opportunity requires your guidance to reach its maximum potential. Be gentle and attentive, but give it room to sprout. As they say, from acorns spring mighty oaks.
Cancer – Knight of Wands – The Rockstar – A flurry of ideas has got you creatively fired up this month! Concentrate on just one, Cancer, and your pure charisma will open enough doors to smooth the way to success. Yet be careful that your energy doesn’t burn out as quickly as your interest was initially sparked. The Knight of Wands is built entirely of flame. If you’re pushed to continue a project you no longer care for, your temper will flare.
Leo – Eight of Swords – Interference – As with all signs, an abundance of choice surrounds you this month, Leo. However, although the others have continued to progress despite their decision-making, you have given up all forward motion to examine the fine details. The question is, are you truly finding problems or trying to stall? There comes a point when the only person arguing is you.
Virgo – Prince of Cups – The Film Maker – Like most movie directors, you would rather watch and control the action this month than engage with it. When decisions must be made in June, you will find it far easier to provoke others into expressing their thoughts and feelings than state your own. Some may call that manipulative even as they admire your ability to get to the heart of the matter. All makers must eventually confront their work, Virgo, and you will be forced to face your emotions by month-end.
Libra – The Hierophant – This card signals that an organization of some sort has taken control of your life this month, Libra. While this card seems religious at first glance, the Hierophant represents institutions and dogma of all types. Being part of any group can have its good and bad sides. Take the time this month to fully explore the advantages offered to you, and watch out for drawbacks, obvious or otherwise.
Scorpio – The Aeon – Although Crowley renamed this card Judgement, much of its original meaning remains. A heavy question arrives on your doorstep this month, Scorpio. By what acts and deeds do you want to be known? In June, defining the legacy of your future self plays to great importance. What you do now will help shape who you will become — and even the lives of those after you. Weigh your options wisely.
Sagittarius – Prince of Disks – The Day Trader – You’re all business this month, Sagittarius, but for good reason. You have your eye on the prize. Just think of what you can do when this job is complete! Just remember: all work and no play mean no play-mates, either. Try to stay connected to your loved ones in June. You may be thinking money, money, money, but a part of you knows this work is also for them.
Capricorn – Prince of Wands – The Journalist – Have all the passion you want. It means nothing without the smarts to put those dreams into action. This month, you’ll be called upon to put your cunning intellect to the test. You always knew your sharp tongue could be a weapon, Capricorn. Who knew it could also be used for good? Choose carefully what words tear down and what they build up in June.
Aquarius – Five of Swords – Defeat – The name of this card suggests the emotional tone you carry into this month. Recent losses have you down, and you may hesitate to try again. Don’t let fear limit you, Aquarius. Otherwise, your failure becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Disengage this month from any negativity holding you back. The past need not dictate the future.
Pisces – Five of Wands – Strife – It’s time to stop being complacent, Pisces. Others battle to take your peace of mind this month — and possibly even a piece of what you feel is rightfully yours. Yet competition can make you sharper, an even greater talent than you were before. Stress can sometimes provide opportunities for growth that would have never resulted otherwise. It may not be what you want, but is possibly the next step needed towards growth. Look for how you can learn from this tension.
That’s all for June! I hope that you’ve enjoyed this brief look at the Urban Tarot. May it have provided some insight for the month ahead. If you require a more in-depth Tarot, Oracle, or Daemonic card reading, my listing is available here and on my website. You can take a peek into my daily tarot journaling on Instagram, and always find my books here.
As most of you know, I love divination tools. From Oracle cards to Runes, from Tarot to Crystals my collection is always growing and I am always on the lookout for something different.
About 2 years ago I was drawn to a new tool and it has since become one of my favourites: the Celtic Ogham. Comprised of 20 sticks or staves, each with one letter of the Ogham alphabet engraved into it. These letters correspond to a certain wood and many sets are created with the appropriate wood to go with its letter.
This month I pulled the stave for Oak, or Duir. Oak symbolizes strength, endurance, new paths and doors, and also protection and leadership. The Celtic name of Duir is thought to be derived from ‘door’ and refers to its association as a doorway to inner strength.
Oak has always been regarded as one of the most sacred trees. Sometimes called the “Lightning Tree,” the Oak tree has been associated with the sky Gods. Its magickal attributes include truth, wisdom, authority, leadership, and personal sovereignty.
I pulled shortly after having a conversation with my daughter who is finding her own inner strength to move ahead with a major career decision. As I sat here and meditated on the stave I started to think about how appropriate it was given the new-normal and how many new doors and paths have opened up. We have learned new ways of working, teaching, and living. Even if they did try us at times, we endured and came through it.
It is also an invitation to delve deeper into ourselves and see what might be holding us back from opening new doorways. With spring leading to longer days and ample light, maybe it’s a good time to shine some light onto what is holding us back.
When it comes to Familiars, I get a lot of questions. So I thought I would touch on the subject in this month’s blog post. I’ll also discuss thought forms and servitors a little bit, because there’s some overlapping and relational information there.
Historically speaking, a familiar was a lower Daemon sent by a higher Daemon (perhaps even Satan himself) to assist the witch or magician in their dark works here on earth. A familiar was almost like a witches helper or demonic bestie that helped them do evil. (Mind you the evil bits were the Christian interpretation). It was said that the familiar, who often took on the shape/form of an animal, could go fetch things like information by spying on ones enemies, or help the witch procure whatever she needed to cast her spells.
Which is also why, incidentally, every old woman with a cat was called a witch back in the day (when our ancestors were superstitious dolts).
Nowadays, witches and magicians who have an animal companion (or companions as the case may be), especially those animals that enjoy being involved in ritual or occult activities, often refer to these animal companions as their familiars. Whether used as a tongue in cheek phrase, or in complete sincerity, the use and meaning of familiar has morphed a bit over the years.
But then what about a true Daemonic Familiar? I’ve had people write to me asking how to draw Daemonic familiars. There are a lot of wide and varied beliefs here. Some people believe their pets really are Daemonic familiars. Others believe that the Daemonic Divine sends a person actual Daemonic familiars that may be invisible to the human eye. Others believe we create our own familiars as thought forms that we call servitors. I don’t think defining a true Daemonic Familiar is nearly this black and white. It’s perfectly reasonable that our pets really do possess divine intelligence and could easily be possessed by Daemonic force. It’s perfectly reasonable to believe that our familiars are spirits, invisible to mortal men. It’s also perfectly reasonable to create a servitor on our own, and imbue it with Daemonic essence, or invite the Daemonic to work through it. Of course I’m also a chaos magician and I believe that magick is only limited by our own limiting thoughts and beliefs. The more open minded you are – the more willing to experiment, the more magickal techniques and manifestations become open to you.
I believe you can petition Daemons known to give good familiars like: Paimon, Purson, Belial, Alloces, Gaap, Sabnock, Shax, Buer, Morax, Malphas, and Amy, and have either unseen or seen familiars sent to you. That said — a familiar isn’t any good to you if you don’t know how to work with it.
I once had a young man ask if I would do a ritual for him to send him familiars, and so I did. He wrote back a week later asking where his familiars were. Well, being a neophyte, he had no idea why he wanted these familiars or what to do with them once he received them. And he was angry at me because apparently he thought I could send him familiars and overnight all his earthly problems would be fixed.
That’s not how familiars work.
First, there’s the development of a rapport with the familiar. You have to become friendly with it. As one of my friends always says (jokingly, I assure you), “It’s your Daemonic Bestie, damnit.” This means you need to spend time with these familiars and feel them out. It also means you need to have developed a fair level of discernment before you even start thinking about trying to draw familiars to you. It’s not an exercise for the complete neophyte. It may be something a first degree initiate might attempt, but only with full knowledge of how familiars work.
What kinds of things can familiars do for you?
They can help manifest opportunities.
They can help manifest information to keep you a step ahead of other people. (Yes, they are great spies. So are self-created servitors.)
They can help you acquire the tools and implements you need for magickal work.
You may be wondering what the difference is between a thought-form/servitor and a familiar. Aside from the fact that you create the thought-form/servitor, whereas the familiar is an independent (of you) entity, the relationship with a familiar is more friendship based. Thought-Forms/Servitors, on the other hand, are your servants because YOU create them and they are an extension of your will. They do only what you say. Whereas a true familiar may follow your commands, it’s still going to do its own thing on occasion. Especially if you’re wrong and it knows you’re wrong. They’ve got their own methods and madness. They’re like mini-divine intelligences.
This brief article only scratches the surface of this topic, but hopefully it’s been a nice little overview and given you some food for thought.
I wanted to write about “some basics” this time. We, as a community, often times overlook or forget about the basics. We’re all guilty (admit it) of at one time or another thinking of jumping to advance rituals and/or workings without learning or strengthening the basics. I would argue that meditation is the single most important thing you need to learn, master and practice some more. Meditation puts us in tune with the Demonic. Meditation allows us to shut off our chattering brain so we can actually receive any message that is trying to be sent our way. It’s the first thing I ask someone about when they tell me, “nothing is working” or “I call to the spirits but nothing happens”. “Are you meditating regularly?” I ask. Usually the answer is “no, that’s boring.”
If it’s boring, you’re probably doing it wrong. Most people don’t want to come out of a good meditation. I’m not going to go too deep into meditation here as I want to focus more on prayer. Also, to cover it properly would just take too long. If you are part of House of Delepitoré, I have free classes on meditation posted.I do however, want to stress the importance of meditation and if you aren’t doing it, you should be. It’s the first thing I try to drive into my students head. Meditate!
So, let’s look at prayer. Prayer is a great way to start and/or end your day. Prayer is a great way to communicate, to receive guidance, to show honor and admiration. Prayer is powerful. I can’t think of any religion that doesn’t have some sort of prayer. Maybe there is but, I can’t think of any. If you are just starting out in Demonolatry, you are probably thinking what prayers do I use. I don’t know any. What am I going to do? Fear not, devil worshipper, I can help you out. First, I recommend getting Daemonic Prayer and Prayer Cords by S. Connolly.
It’s (in my opinion) the best place to start for determining what prayers to use. Now, it is good to use “established” prayers but you should also create your own. Stephanie covers that in her book but I am going to go over my take on that here. Take it or leave it. The only thing it will cost you is the time to continue reading. Perhaps a more simplified version. The importance of any prayer, whether you wrote it or someone else, is when we pray, we are in a specific state of mind. Everything else is put aside and you are saying, “Hey, Satan. I am devoting this time to you. I am thinking about you. I am talking to you. What I have to say is important.” Satan is my Patron so, I will be using him for my examples.
The power of prayer is real. Prove it? On the same time every morning for the next week, say a devotional prayer to (insert Demon here). Track how it feels after each prayer session. Do you feel a stronger connection after each day of prayer? You should.
“How am I supposed to write my own prayer?” I’m glad you asked. We want to address who we are praying to and what we want. Do we want to show devotion, ask for something or maybe a little of both? Let’s do something like this: Lord Satan, see me. Lord Satan, hear me. Lord Satan, let my energy combine with yours to make me a better and stronger person in body and spirit. Guide me in my decisions. Let my actions honor you. Let me learn from my mistakes but protect me from harm. All this I ask in my Lord Satan. Hail Satan. Ave Satanas.
Of course this is a simple example. So many people I talk to think they can’t write their own prayers. They think unless the prayer was published or recited over a few thousand times at a church that it doesn’t work. This isn’t cooking. Prayer books are not cook books. Prayers should come from your heart. Make it your own. Make it special. Most importantly is to just do it and not over think it. There is no magic formula for prayers. The occultist’s worst enemy is themselves when they only talk about doing instead of actually doing it. Whether it’s prayer, magick, rituals, whatever. Get off your ass and do it.
Hi there! I’m back a little earlier than anticipated. Instead of putting up a longer Tarotscope for the New Moon as planned, I’ve opted to create a shorter write-up in time for the beginning of the month. This is when I will post from now on.
This month, I will be using The Fallen Angel Oracle by Nigel Suckling. This 72-card deck draws upon the daemons of both Johann Weyer’s De Praestigiis Daemonum and The Ars Goetia. Indeed, this would be my ideal Goetia deck if not for a couple of issues with it. Its dream-like, digitally rendered imagery brings to mind a scrying mirror, with symbolism drawn right from the texts. However, the meanings associated with each daemon do not always mesh well with their depiction in traditional Daemonolatry or with my perception of them. Secondly, while the creator has chosen to include the three daemons Weyer purposely left out of his original text, Pruflas remains in favor of the Goetia’s Vassago. In general, I find these cards act best as devices that help me remember the oracular meanings attributed to daemons of the Goetia in Sigillum Diaboli by S. Connolly, as well as those drawn from my own gnosis. That is primarily how I use The Fallen Angel Oracle, and I prefer to ignore the keywords written on the cards because of it. That is how I will be using the deck for this month’s reading.
All signs – Morax – The dust has settled, and your troubles are over. Yet keep in mind that there is still something to be learned from the conflict that has just passed, so don’t put it out of your mind too hastily. Morax is a teaching demon – and one who takes lessons seriously. You should too or you’re likely to see this problem again. In May, all signs need to take a moment to contemplate where they are and what has happened in recent months. What part did you play in the events that occurred?
Aries – Ipos – Muster your courage, Aries. Unexpected difficulties force your hand this month, asking you to make a decision before you are ready. Try to take a moment to reflect before you make your choice. You need to look at the situation from as many angles as possible first.
Taurus – Belial Reversed – The fire within you burns low this month, Taurus. Sluggishness leads to lower productivity and even a tendency towards irresponsibility in your daily life. Be careful not to let poor habits impact your financial affairs. Like a garden, these need regular attention.
Gemini – Marbas – Confused, Gemini? Not sure what to do? Turning over this card suggests you are too close to a situation this month and need to take a large step back to gain an unbiased perspective. Taking yourself out of this issue as much as possible will reveal the way out of the problem.
Cancer – Orias – Nice weather this month inspires good times with friends and family, Cancer. Take care not to overindulge during your celebrations – and to look after yourself better in general. Pulling this card indicates you have been neglecting an area of your physical health and should attend to that need.
Leo – Vuall Reversed – Socializing isn’t a big part of your schedule this month, Leo. You would rather spend time alone with your thoughts. Remember your head can be an echo chamber; it’s important to seek outside voices, especially in times of distress. You don’t have to be a hermit.
Virgo – Murmur – This daemon’s keyword is dissolution. Take advantage when the obstacle that once held you back dissolves in May, leaving the path before you open. But that does not mean you are a master yet, Virgo. You have a lot to learn before you can move forward efficiently. This month offers a chance to learn something new and broaden your horizons as well.
Libra – Andromalius – May looks to be a great time for you, Libra. Turning over this daemon’s card typically points to good fortune and happiness in the near future. Andromalius not only protects from theft but can help discover hidden treasures. Think outside the box when looking for these. Not every gift can be held in your hands.
Scorpio – Ronove – Like the daemon of the month, Ronove is also a teacher. Turning over this card only emphasizes how much you need to learn during this period. It also places a focus on structured lessons, so your schooling may take place within the context of formal education. Regardless, consider May a time to expand your mind and skills.
Sagittarius – Vapula Reversed – Dissatisfied with your creative output, Sagittarius? Then consider the saying, “Garbage in, garbage out.” It’s come time to give your brain better stimulation this month. If you want to make great things, the media you consume must be of similar high quality – which is to say nothing of the amount to intake. What’s your human/media balance? It requires friction with another being to ignite the creative spark.
Capricorn – Barbatos – This is indeed a period of growth and education, Capricorn, but many of the lessons to be learned are not yours. Instead, you may feel caught in the middle this month as two or more parties work out their issues. Although you are entangled in another person’s problems, there is a deeper wisdom to be gained by helping them navigate the situation.
Aquarius – Decarabia – Sometimes we can’t see the truth. Turning over Decarabia’s card means that deception comes to light this month. But hold up, Aquarius. That doesn’t necessarily mean you have been lied to, either. You may be held back by negative self-talk that just isn’t true. May is the time to take these limiting beliefs apart by investing your efforts in some mental readjustment.
Pisces – Zepar Reversed – Spring is still in the air! The First Rite of Leviathan sparks chemistry between partners, casual and committed. Expect heightened levels of emotional connection overall this month, Pisces. Yet this card suggests not to be too obvious in your affections until after passions have cooled. The age-old question remains, “Will they still love me in the morning?”
That’s it for May! I hope this brief look at The Fallen Angel Oracle (and Sigillum Diaboli!) finds you well. If you require a more in-depth Tarot, Oracle, or Daemonic card reading, my listing is available here and on my website. You can take a peek into my daily tarot journaling on Instagram, and always find my books on Daemonolatry here.
See you in June. If it’s summer where you are – enjoy it!
Recently I was discussing different results of past rituals with a friend. They were complaining that many of their workings were falling flat when involving the Daemonic. Their background was more of a kitchen witch type than that of a ceremonial magician. As we continued our discussion I began to realize they were expecting cook book results. In other words, if I do A, B and C and add some D and E, I will automatically get F. As he continued to talk I thought about his expectations. When we work with the Daemonic (or any spirits for that matter), why do we expect them to help just be cause we called them with a Yew wand and some Dragon’s Blood?
Let’s say we have two neighbors, there names are Larry and Gerald. We need help with some yard work. We don’t really know Larry. We see him outside once in a while. He never comes over for coffee or a visit. We don’t go to his house to meet the family or even share a joke. Just a friendly wave now and again is all we exchange. Where as Gerald comes over once in a while for a cook out and maybe even to watch a football game with you. So, you decide you need to ask for help. Your magical items for this ritual is a six pack of beer for an offering and a shovel for a wand that represents the work that needs to be done.
Which neighbor do you think is gonna help you? Not to mention if we decide to ask for help versus command our neighbor with threats of Jehovah raining bugs on their garden if they don’t assist. The relationships we make with the Daeominc and/or spirits is very important in the success of our rituals. I think this is an element that we often overlook. It is important to harvest a good relationship with the Daemonic before we start requesting favors. It’s the same with our friends. Some may lay their reputations or even lives on the line for you because of how deep the relationship with them really is.I think you will also notice if you let a relationship with a specific Daemon fade away because you haven’t acknowledged their existence for a year or two, will need to be refreshed or rebuilt. Same as if you don’t talk to your neighbor, Gerald. You have to let him know you still care. Don’t believe me?
For one month, try a daily ritual of honoring Belial (for example) without requesting anything. Just leave offerings and connect with Belial. Then after a month, request through ritual something that you need. See what your results are. Then try asking a Daemon you have never worked with before and see what your results are like after your initial ritual without any relationship being established. Just a side note, when I say “relationship” I am not referring to any kind of sexual relationship. So, let’s not even go there.
I think it is very important for us as magicians to have a daily practice to honor those of the Daemonic that we are close to and enjoy working with. Now, before you say, “I don’t have time to do a ritual every day. I work too much or my family takes too much time.”, etc., etc., etc. Bullshit! The same people who claim that always seem to have enough time to post on Facebook about how depressed they are or what they are having for dinner or what asshole politician is making them mad this week. There is absolutely no reason that you can not at least pray to the Daemonic each day, leave a small offering or do a short ritual to them. Its the same as anything else in our lives, if we want it or like it enough, we will find time in our day for it.
This also ties into Steph’s previous blog about sacrifice. If I can’t sacrifice a little for them, why should they sacrifice anything for me. So, next time you think your magic isn’t working and you start to dissect your rituals, instead of just checking planetary charts, moon phases, correct incenses, etc., don’t forget to ask yourself, how strong is the relationship here and is it worthy of what I’m asking for help with.
