#metaphysicaltools

Cauldrons

Nov 07, 2017

  A cauldron is - in general - a pot or kettle, traditionally made out of cast iron, used for cooking and/or boiling water over an open fire. As a cooking vessel, cauldrons were popular - until the 18th Century with the beginnings of the British Industrial Revolution.

  With the rise of alternative cooking units, cauldrons have become relatively extinct. That is, except in witches’ kitchens. Used for concocting brews and potions, burning items during a ritual, or simply holding ingredients for a spell, cauldrons continue to be an essential tool for any practitioner of Kitchen Magic.

   A symbol the female power and rebirth, the cauldron contains many things in an altar, like herbs and incense. The element of Water and West direction are also represented by a cauldron. Because of this, cauldrons can be used for magickal purposes, such as burning incense or candles, to represent your goddess, blending herbs, and moonlight scrying.

In Lore & Legend

   In traditions of Wicca that have incorporated Celtic mythology, cauldrons are associated with the goddess Cerridwen. Cerridwen’s prophetic powers made her the keeper of cauldron knowledge and an inspiration in the Underworld. Celtic lore also speaks of a cauldron being used during times of war, in which dead warriors would be placed in and returned to life. While these dead warriors would lack speech, and possibly souls, they were to be put back in battle until they died again.

   Irish mythology depicts an old crone with a cauldron presiding over the Irish Land of the Dead.

   Vedic myth depicts Indra, the King of Gods, stealing the cauldron (called a soma) in order to rule over all the gods. Indra stealing the soma - a representation of the Goddess - symbolizes a patriarchal god usurping power from goddesses.

   Bards often sought out cauldrons as a symbol of inspiration. They would claim they drank from Cerridwen’s cauldron - a source of inspiration - to promote creativity.

Safety

   Remain cautious when burning with your cauldron. Cast iron typically retains heat after use so be sure to keep all heat sensitive and flammable items away. Cauldrons that are primarily used for magickal uses are not suitable for food. If you plan to cook with a cauldron, always have a separate one just for cooking. Clay cauldrons are subject to cracking when exposed to high heat. Be sure to check your cauldron before each use!

Spell Candles

Nov 03, 2017

Spell Candles

 Widely used amongst pagans, witches, and ritual workers alike, spell candles are the simplest form of spell casting! Much like making a birthday wish - closing your eyes and just hoping your wish could come true -, spell casting with spell candles only takes that desire and visualization of a goal. It is very popular as it doesn’t require a very fancy ritual or ceremonial objects that are too expensive - anyone can do it.

Spell Candle casting is based on three principles: thinking of a goal, visualizing it, and the desire or intent into making it real. It is possible for a variety of spells to be cast with these candles, from a money spell to a love spell. A set of candles can also be used in divination - most commonly by reading the wax or reading the manner at which the candle burns.

SPELLS & RITUALS

 Several spells or rituals can be conducted with candles; however, different candles may be necessary depending on the spell or ritual. Non-drip candles, for instance, are ideal for intention spells - a candle that leaves no wax behind sends all your intentions to the universe!

 Though you can use spells or rituals that have been done before, you can also develop your own spells involving candles. Any Truth, Luck, LOve, or Wealth Spell can be modified as you see fit. You may also carve symbols, runes, initials, and more into a candle - so long as it will assist in achieving your means.

COLORS

 The color of the spell candle also has its own significance. Certain colors promote passion and friendship, while other offer protection or the banishment of negative energy. Each color has its own intention and picking the correct color would benefit you greatly.

White: The presence of all color, white is the “all purpose” candle. It is used to replace any color. Specifically, white symbolizes innocence, purity, and peace.

Yellow: In any context, yellow is very positive. This color most often symbolizes joy, happiness, prosperity, inspiration, and creativity.

Red: A lush color of danger and love, red candles traditionally symbolizes those two tropes. They can also symbolize strength, vitality, power, and courage.

WHEN USING

 It is important to remember that the candle you choose to use should correspond with your spell. Virgin candles - meaning candles that have never been used - are highly recommended at the start of work. Previously used candles may have a negative effect on your spell. Charging or anointing your candle is another key thing during spell work. When it comes time for the flame to go out, you should use your fingers (or a snuffer) to so - spiritual candles should not be blown out.