Golems, Tulpas, and Egregores, Oh My! (Thought Form types)

 

“We live in a fantasy world, a world of illusion. The great task in life is to find reality.”

Iris Murdoch

Thought forms are an interesting concept and manifestation. Some are living representations of ideas or beings, and others tease our subconscious into creating our own reality. Some of these representations are made in the form of a humanoid and function as their own being, and others are simply thoughts themselves.

This is a brief overview of a few different types of thought forms.

1. Golem. Golems are thought forms that are brought to life and usually are programmed with only one command. These beings are very useful until their programming is completed. A golem, may become destructive after it finishes its purpose. Usually, you give a golem a name, and say the name backwards to undo it, or traditionally by removing a letter that equals to a word of uncreation. They are also usually tied to a clay vessel. Some people believe that if you break the vessel, you will “kill” or free the golem.
2. Servitor. These types of thought forms are created with sigils, and are either fed directly on the sigil or housed in a box or tiny home. These beings, unlike golems, can be programmed for more than one task, and sometimes can even gain their own sentience. They still do not have free will, even as a sentient being. Like a small child, they have the ability to become destructive if they have no boundaries. You can destroy them by burning the sigil and burying the ashes, breaking the vessel (if you used other material than paper), or burying the sigil after covering it in black wax with binding sigils.
3. Tulpas. This is a thought form originally described in Buddhist doctrine. It is a being created from the power of your own mind. In Buddhism, it wasn’t just about the creation, but also was used as a a type of spiritual body for astral travel. Some people even use them as a companion. Many people believe that tulpas have a more material form, like ‘real’ beings. These beings can gain their own sentience and essentially become it’s own soul and being. They are independent of the creator, but are connected and share experiences with the creator. They still serve its creator in this state, though a few stories say that they can become their own independent entity. It is good to remember that any time we share a direct bond with any entity, even a thought form, anything traumatic it experiences – even death – can be directed to the person whom it is attached.
4. Egregores. These are actually quite similar to tulpas. The difference is this is made by a group of people and is program for various tasks. These thought forms are meant to be a way to influence people and events, versus actually changing events itself. This takes a group to maintain. Some egregores, while they may develop a type of sentience close to artificial intelligence, are still controlled by the original group of people that created it. Egregores can be created both consciously and subconsciously. For example, when people begin to believe in a folk legend, an egregore may develop. This is because people are feeding their energy and beliefs into a single idea.
5. Poppets. These are also known as sympathy puppets. These are usually a representation of an actual person. These can be used for curses or healing, including on yourself. Poppets are usually filled with a personal belonging of the person that they are using the doll on. Some people even place a picture of the target on the face to direct the spells. When you want to get rid of the poppet, you can take the essence out of it, pick it apart, then burn it. If you are planning to curse the target, you may leave it as is and put it in a box and/or bury it.
6. Actual Thoughts. These are the most common of thought forms. Your thoughts shape your world, and errant thoughts can also effect others. You may notice you can influence people with ‘negative’ thoughts and ‘good’ thoughts. An errant thought is when you think something, but don’t direct the intention and it goes where it may. Some of these thoughts will sit in one place, and will effect how the location feels. Usually these are described as negative or positive energy – which are caused by thoughts and actions of those that have been there previously. These are relatively easy to banish. There are times when an exorcism versus a banishing is needed. I find that the former seems to be needed more commonly when you live in an apartment complex or with lots of people. The energy will stay, because it is still being perpetuated by other residents. It should be noted that most thoughts do not carry enough energy to perpetuate their existence and quickly dissipate.
7. Unconscious Thought Forms. Unconscious thought forms are inanimate objects and ideas that are given power through belief. These are also frequently called correspondences when using them in rituals. These can be sigils of ideas, candle colors, incense correlations to beings or ideas, symbols, etc. These have gained power because people believed that these objects and ideas represented a certain idea. An example is the idea that frankincense is connected to angels because it is mentioned as one the gifts Jesus receives in the New Testament. Another example is that certain sounds correlate with the chakras, or mantras that can manifest a single idea.
8. Meme Thought Forms. These are ideas that people latch on to, then give them power through belief. The main requirement is that these are ideas that spread like wildfire and influence a large group of people. This could be any idea or concept, true or not, such as believing the Earth is flat. It also happens when meshing various ideas, such as mixing pantheons together or assigning other gods from different pantheons to your own beliefs. As long as others pick up on it and carry the idea, like a virus, then it would be considered a ‘meme’.
9. Created Gods, Demons, Angels, and entities. Creation of deities and entities is nothing new. It has been going on since man conceived that there were beings that controlled the weather and hunt. ALL known Gods are a thought form; a facade. There are real beings behind the gods, but the idea of that particular god is a thought that correlates to the time, place, and ideals of the people worshiping it. The same with Goetic demons. Some of these thought forms do have actual entities possess them, like a costume. I always describe these types of thought forms like Batman; Bruce Wayne is Batman, but Batman is not Bruce Wayne.

These are some of the basic and most common thought forms. Knowing what they are, and their abilities can be advantageous when doing ritual or spellwork. Though some of the thought forms are non-sentient and do not have the ability to think for itself, ethics should be considered when creating a being of any sentient level. I was taught ethics regarding golems by the high priest in the first temple I joined. It was a decision we had to make ourself. It is a big decision, and required we also had the capability to take care of one. Consider carefully when creating thought forms.

Lastly, remember you are the creator and destroyer of these beings, and as such you are a god. By treating them as you wish to be treated is a great way to understand leadership and how souls operate.

-Arachnia Stoneskull

Art Credit: “Schizophrenia” by Erik Baumann

Spiritual Anarchy

 

“You cannot buy the Revolution. You cannot make the Revolution. You can only be the Revolution. It is in your spirit, or it is nowhere.”

Ursula K. LeGuin, The Disposessed

 

Anarchy is often envisioned as pure chaos, and is seen as a negative event. Most people imagine looting, civil war, and destruction of the foundation of society. Anarchy is none of these things, though these events can lead to anarchy.

The definition of anarchy comes from anarchos: “an” meaning without and “archos” meaning ruler or chief. It is essentially to self govern. This is important, as it not only insinuates free will, but order established by our own beliefs and reality. This doesn’t mean that we can take from others, but that we have control of our own domain and the right to defend what is ours.

Spiritual Anarchy is the act of governing the self in spiritual practices and beliefs. It is the belief that we all choose what to believe and have the capacity to find our own path. While people may come together in a common belief, spiritual anarchy is taking responsibility for your own growth and doing what you must in order to fulfill your spiritual desires. It means that others do not have an effect on your beliefs. A person may listen and determine if the new information should be included, but are not easily swayed by others. Especially if the journey has led to more solid truths. It is learning the ability to discern what is truth, or to set aside interesting tidbits of information that doesn’t currently make sense or has missing information.

Not everyone needs to be a spiritual anarchist. It’s okay to choose a religion that allows for a person to be comfortable and has an established set of rules. Spiritual anarchy is for those that are willing to break the confines of what is previously taught and test so-called truths. It is for exploring other possibilities and avenues of thought.

When you are tired of seeing ‘wrong-doing’, when you see that most spiritual advice and gurus are false, when you see that there is a need and yearning to learn more – that is the beginning of your journey to spiritual anarchy.

How to Be a Spiritual Anarchist

The first rule is there are no rules, but those you impose on yourself. However, here are some guides and suggestions to get you started on your journey.

1. Accept Responsibility for Your Actions. This is the number one guide. Since you are self-governing, you are the one that makes the choices. This means the consequences are your own. No one is coming to save you, or forgive you for ‘sins’. If you feel you have wronged someone, or have made a wrong choice, then correct it. By accepting responsibility and the consequences that come with it, you understand what true freedom and choice is.

2. Test Your Theories and Spiritual Practices. You will be using empirical and experiential evidence when testing out your beliefs and practices. Testing your practices and observing them to see what is consistent, or not, is important. This does not stop at failure or success, though. Understanding the mechanics behind it, so you can tweak your practices, or discard them, is also important. To accept something as a constant without knowing why is not full understanding. In order to be completely self governing, you must know the reason the reason behind the actions and what you do, especially when it comes to interactions with other people and beings. This allows you to make good choices for yourself, and have the ability to learn how to break through boundaries.

3. Communication, Networking, and Socialization. While it is important to take some time for ourselves, especially for reflection and meditation, we are also social creatures. Information is more easily available through others. Through networking we can learn how to become more efficient in areas that we may not have experience in. This is doesn’t take away from the self, but is a tool to help further your goals and keep you in the loop of important information.

4. Political and Ethical Stances. Though anarchy is self governing, this also means you are responsible for creating the world you wish to live in. This means that you may decide to be a force of change to further your own goals and purpose. Rebellion and revolution have always started with individuals that wanted to change the current circumstances regarding their physical needs and being. Be the change you want to see, as the saying goes.

5. Be Genuine and Have Integrity. This seems like a rule, but really it’s a way to gauge who should be in your circle. It also let’s people know that you are serious and should be taken as such. You may not be out to make friends, but being true to yourself will bring you more of what you truly want.

6. Check Yourself. There are times that misinformation is spread, especially by those that desperately want to believe it. There are times that we must research and check information that we are thinking of sharing; whether it is from social media or a spiritual being. Even beings from other dimensions have agendas, and will use those who easily accept any information from the “Spirit World” as true and valid. Always Question everything, even what you think. Test it, research it, ask for help to find the answer if you need.

Being an adventurer and spiritual anarchist is not easy. You will lose friends, and be mocked by people that feel you threaten their paradigm. People mistakenly think that their beliefs is their actual Self and life. It is merely expression, which can easily be changed. Part of being a spiritual anarchist is demonstrating this to others. You may also find there is resistance from your current community and family, too. However, remember to be brave, press on, and Hail Self!

Sources:

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anarchy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anarchy

Arachnia Stoneskull

Art Credit: Claudia McKinney

Not Your Babalon: Female Empowerment and Love

 

“Thou hast called me, oh accursed and beloved fool.”

-Jack Parsons, ‘The Book of Babalon’

Babalon, The Sacred Whore. She Who Rides the Beast. She is the full embodiment of life and experiences, both horrifying and joyful at the same time. Every “true” woman by many occultists’ standard should fully embrace this aspect and archetype of herself – and in the literal sense.

Women are still viewed as whores, or there only for a man’s pleasure. While many women in occultist circles are glad to play the role of the promiscuous seducer, they mistake it with true power. Seducing and manipulation is a technique to hold power and sway over others, but it is a short term power and must be constantly maintained. Beauty, charm, and adoration are temporary. In this sense of playing a sexual goddess, when the play toy gets old and worn, it is discarded. By buying into the literal sense of Babalon, we are buying into the age old Patriarch system of women are only useful as long as they are vessels that men give value. As women, we have been ‘graciously’ given power by being altars and vessels for men to use to empower theirselves and reach their highest perception of enlightenment.

We do have that power within ourselves as women, and we certainly don’t have to use it to pander to others that can’t tap that power within themselves. We may not be biologically built for physical strength like men, but what we lack in physical strength, we have replaced with creativity and intelligence. Women have been behind some of our major technological advancements, especially regarding space exploration, radiation, and other scientific breakthroughs. We have entertained powerful authority figures and influenced their decisions throughout history. Our maternal ancestors protected their villages, while raising children and acquiring food sources. We are rising again to protect our children and other women from the oppression of male oriented government and entitlement. The rage of the goddess, seeing the blood spilled of those abusing innocents, is a truer picture of the Goddsess, or Babalon, than a women who seeks only to please others through their own sexuality.

Traditionally anything described of Babalon is actually a conundrum; a pale comparison and less poetic version of ‘The Thunder, Perfect Mind’. The value of Babalon lies in the archetype encouraging female empowerment; such as independence while breaking societal taboos and constructs. However, the modern problem is this empowerment can only be obtained through men. Only by allowing them to use a woman as his altar does she becomes a goddess. You see this idea in action in modern occultism and Satanism as beautiful, young women are wooed with false power and adoration in exchange for sexual favors. Most of these groups and covens are sexual predators looking to use religion and ego to prey on younger, uninformed women.

Women are currently still learning occult secrets in the way that men have influenced it. Even women that are famous in magick and occult circles are still perpetuating patriarchal inspired magickal systems, not knowing they have more power than any biological male could imagine. Even S. Ben Qayin had to invoke and be possessed by a goddess in order to work with the Djinn. Women that are seers are able to ask favors, unlike human heterosexual males, and the Djinn will do as you bid without almost any offering. (Though it should be noted that They usually ask to be companions, which means you don’t get to have romantic human relationships again.) There’s a reason the Ben Elohim, the Watchers, chose to marry women, and not men. Being gay and transgender still applies to the biological sex rules. There are some Celestials that gender and biological sex doesn’t matter, but when it comes to the beings commonly known as Djinn and Angels, it does. However, demons are more flexible and usually require the same devotion and offerings from everyone.

You hear of stories of women naturally commanding spirits and entities in nearly every culture. Men in most cultures, even in shamanic cultures, must ‘receive’ the gift whether through an entity (like YHWH) or through an illness – most men only receive their power through initiation. This is why women are coveted – we are seen as vessels to initiate men into their own power, or to communicate with deities/entities. Even Dee and Kelly’s ‘Angelic’ guide was a little girl, which seems to be a common initiator for males. Perhaps it is because a child reflects innocence and the beginning – being born anew, which is where the adept starts their journey – in effect, initiation. This is not saying that there aren’t naturally born males seers, but even they don’t have the privilege of freely receiving help (or even being liked) by many Celestials.

I have been called a Scarlet Woman before because of my sexuality, individuality, and independence – until I don’t submit to the male giving me the ‘compliment’. I don’t need another’s confirmation to know what I am or not, and I think that’s the problem. As women, especially the older generation like myself, we have been programmed to see our value as men and the Patriarch see us. But for those that walk the path, we know that we are just as valuable, intelligent, and self-sufficient as any male.

This brings us to love and how it connects to the view of Babalon. A true goddess knows Herself, like Lilith. They know pleasure and ambition do not require you to spread yourself thin, but be picky with those whom you choose. You don’t need to bow down or sleep with every Adam, if you don’t wish, in order to retain your femininity. You can be like Lilith – only choose those that you see as an equal and treat you as their equal, and leave the rest behind.

This is what many of us have been seeking – being treated as an equal with respect, and appreciated for ourselves as we are. A true embodiment of Babalon, or any sexually independent goddess, means that we, as women, choose who to let enter into our life. We get to decide how to express ourselves, who to make our partners, and who we associate with. This doesn’t mean that we don’t have preferences when it comes to how we enjoy being loved, or what a relationship is to us, but that we are an active participant in it.

It should be noted that many people will laud a woman for speaking well, having knowledge, and being herself. However, most of those that applaud it in public will find a woman not easily influenced and who is comfortable in her own power as being ‘too much’. These types of people are not your friends, or lovers. They should be left behind to find their own selves, as they are not comfortable with theirself yet. These types of people will do anything to tear you down to make themselves feel better. This goes for any partner that tries to use their skills or knowledge to put you in your place, or claim they are more powerful and try to make you acquiesce to their authority. These people are more interested in power play than they are in your spiritual growth.

Those who truly love independent women know that there will still be compromises (that is unavoidable in most relationships). Boundaries and agreements should not interfere with either partners’ power or individuality. This is why it is important to be up front about your ethics and boundaries from the beginning. I would like to add that submissiveness in a woman does not mean they are weak or make them less. If it is agreed, and to her will, it is still equal because she had a choice. To take advantage and force a woman to submit is much different than her freely giving you what you wish. For example, I am the type that is okay with being domestic and ‘wifey’ and even let a man take charge in the bedroom. However, when it comes to personal ethics and boundaries, or important decisions that effect us both, I must be included. Anytime someone has tried to take advantage of my kindness and quietness, because they saw it as weakness, quickly learned that I do not submit. I do not like being controlled or talked down to, and will stand up for myself and others.

Because I have been on my own and know how to take care of myself, I have also found myself. I don’t need anyone to complete me. I see a partner as an equal, where we both help alleviate each others burdens and support each other. I feel when a person reaches a point that they realize they can depend on theirself, and realize their true potential, they are ready to enter mature partnerships. This is where power is held equally and tasks are distributed as all parties involved agree (this includes polyamorous relationships). The ability to treat another with respect, and show it through action, is part of this process. I will not give up my individuality, independence, or dreams up in order to make a partner more comfortable. I am not afraid to admit to myself that a person may be a good friend (or not), but not a good fit for a partner. I think when we distinguish that we can love someone, but realize that it is toxic mess and walk away, that is part of maturity and true love. It leaves you both free to pursue someone that would bring greater joy.

Love and Empowerment, while being complimentary can be mutually exclusive. I think that’s something everyone should consider. You don’t need love to be empowered, and not everyone that loves is comfortable in their own power, yet. However, through freedom of choice and equal standing, both can be linked and amplify one’s own goals.

This is why I declare myself my own Babalon – my independence, my love, my will, my choices, and who I am belong to me exclusively. I share only with those that are worthy to be in my presence, and show respect to who I am as a whole.

Hail, your own power and Self!

-Arachnia Stoneskull

February 1, 2019; 11:34 A.M.

Photo: “Dragon Charmer” by Dehong He

Intention is Not Everything; Manifestation Gone Awry

 

“The road to Hell is paved with good intentions.”

-Old Proverb

Modern magic and religious practitioners have taken on a new attitude and view regarding moralism; that is to say what is moral and right. In order to be more inclusive, they propound falsities that everyone is equal in skill, everyone is ‘right’, everyone has the ability to create world wide change, and everyone has wisdom residing in them. These are widely distributed ideas that have harmed and undermined the work of true adepts. The truth is not everyone has the same skills, opinion is not fact, most people lead insignificant lives on a world-wide scale, and there are some people that don’t contain an ounce of common sense in them. This leads to one of the most destructive thoughts in magic – “Intention is everything”.

I’ve practiced awhile, and take note of how my curses and blessings effect others. I have also discussed this subject with several professional and knowledgeable practitioners. The conclusion is this – intention does not effect the result or consequence of your magic. Sometimes our best intentions have caused ourselves, or others, great harm.

Intentions are toted as the great panacea of avoiding ‘bad karma’ or ‘black magic’, even if the magic itself is actually creating opportunity to harm another, or control their Will. A lot of people practicing ‘white magic’ will hold the same rituals as those practicing ‘black magic’, only changing the name of the deity and some of the wording. Changing a deity’s name, or the intention of something already possessed of an egregorian power, doesn’t change what you’re doing or trying to accomplish. If you do a love spell to bind a specific person to you, despite changing the name Lilith to Aphrodite, and calling on Light versus Darkness – you are still influencing another’s will, which is still considered ‘black magic’. Your intention does not change that.

Intention can also be seen as a ‘wish’. It is a wish about a specific and successful outcome. This is a great start to inspire and organize a ritual. However, it is only a wish and not the reality of what may happen.

It should also be noted that your actions are your own; and if you cause harm, you are the perpetrator and at fault despite your original intent.

Intention versus Consequence

Inspiration and ideas are everywhere we look. One of the greatest things about the human mind is that it has the ability to make connections and create new ideas. This is a great gift. Most humans have the ability of imagination and invention, which plays a large part in successful rituals.

Intention is how you view or imagine an idea to be based on your personal experiences and worldview. It is the Will being formed versus the Will in action. It is the idea forming and preparing to come into existence. It is a wish; a desire; a passion. It is our imagination coming out to play. It is a beginning.

Intention, however, is not as powerful as when these ideas and creations are implemented and put into action. We can intend to do anything all we want, but it is inert without action. This holds true in magic, too. This is why curses and blessings don’t always work – they are a ‘wish’ that loses inertia.

Intention is also colored and biased. We think of what we desire, and even if we contemplate it for awhile, we are asserting our own Will and current beliefs in our ritual and magic. For instance, if you view everything as Dark, you may think your intention to harm others is only successful if the person suffers. Say you decide that you want to curse someone to lose their job and monetary savings. It happens and you are satisfied at first. Then you noticed it did more good than harm – the person gets a better job, learns a new skill, gets their act together, or even thrives off the chaos and becomes a successful business owner or lecturer. The results may have nothing do with your expectations or intention.

Another example is the spell where some witches tried to bind President Trump. The current United States President is a volatile and aggressive speaker, and his actions offend many people. The intention of the spell was good – to prevent him from saying and doing harmful things to the citizens of the U.S. However, their intention has actually facilitated harm. Through use of incorrect correspondences, not reprogramming the egregore already set in place through cultural values and magic in the color orange, and improper naming, they didn’t bind his body and spirit from doing harm. Rather they bound his ability to be creative, have proper communication, practice good leadership skills, joy, and warmth (compassion). They activated the egregore already attached to the color orange, and bound him through the current programming of that egregore. This is because the actual spell does not contain a way to properly bind intention to candle, despite the color. Because of this, their spells have caused more harm than good. In fact, it may have been better to bestow, rather than bind, these values through the color orange (which they chose for his ‘skin’ color versus actual color correspondence). That way he would perhaps have exhibited, rather than suppressed, those qualities. As you can see, intention had nothing to do with the actual outcome of the spell – and the consequence was actually the opposite intended.

This also goes along with the best of intentions, not just harming and binding. I have seen healers accidentally curse people. I have seen people encourage others to proceed with the false vision of ‘Light’ as protection that led to complete destruction of several people that believe them. I have seen people have good intentions in preaching their religion, or even praying for people, that have caused curse-like effects.

These are just a few examples of intention going awry.

A New Approach

Armed with this knowledge and reading the experiences of others, this may lead to a bit of conundrum. How do you set your intention and focus your Will to create a successful ritual with the intended outcome?

I propose that instead of having ‘intention’, which is colored by bias and emotion, to actually decide what you wish to accomplish without an emotional attachment. Next, you will create and release the energy by strictly programming in parameters of the spell. Then accept the consequences of the results – for better or worse. Being a true adept isn’t strictly about success – it is about learning from your failures and building a better system. This includes taking responsibility for your own actions, and not displacing blame on ‘intention’ or ‘doing the right thing’. These are perceptions and only have value in the human world, not Universe Law.

Going by the adage, “For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction,” is a good guideline. It’s not karma, it’s not the Rule of Three, it’s not Fate – it is just consequence, which can be unpredictable and highly volatile. This doesn’t mean that the consequence you receive will always be malevolent or beneficial based on your motives, just that all actions have results. The Universe will eventually right itself, whether through creation or destruction. You can see this when an abundance of ‘good’ actions can lead to great ‘evil’. We see this even now in our world, because instead of trying to find balance and compromise, people choose sides based on emotion and opinion. This has led to a halt in progress in our world. These ‘good’ intentions caused harm by creating a vast dichotomy between opposing views of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ based on self-righteousness.

Knowing the truth about intention, opinion, and worldview gives the practitioner tools to opens up to more possibilities. It can help one to evaluate their self and find underlying meaning to their current actions. This also allows more freedom, as you realize there is no color or moral meaning attached to energy and magic. You’ll be able to operate based on your goals versus decisions made from guilt and shame. Your limitations will only be those you put on yourself.

Stay informed, and Hail Self!

-Arachnia Stoneskull

Photo Credit: “A Burning Heart” Artist Unknown

Necromancy: The Reality of Spirit Communication

 

Channeling the dead, summoning demons, and divination of spirits is an art that has been practiced throughout ancient history. King Solomon, Saint Cyprian, and Marie Laveau are some of the most famous conjurers regarding spirit summoning. This tradition of asking spirits and other entities for advice, divination, and to run errands is stronger than ever, especially with many people taking a renewed interest in the occult and communicating with passed loved ones.

The art of spirit communication and summoning is called necromancy. “Necro” meaning “dead”, and “mancy” meaning “magic” in Latin. From ancient Egyptian stories to the Bible, necromancy has made appearances as a way to divine, or have servants to carry out bidding. While magic through an approved religious priesthood was acceptable, those that spoke with the dead were generally feared and ostracized throughout almost all history of major cultures. Witches, those who usually practiced taboo magic outside of the sanctioned religious practices, were viewed as dangerous for having power over not just nature, but the dead. Witches have been blamed for influencing politics, weather, crops, and more because of this fear.

Necromancy falls under the category of nigromancy, “nigro” meaning black in Latin — in other words it is “black magic”. This is quite important, because until recently, contacting the dead and any entity was seen as part of the dark side of magic. This belief has flipped a 180 and is now seen as white magic – as long as it is SANCTIONED BY THEIR RELIGIOUS BELIEFS.

The watering down of original beliefs in order to force it into a paradigm that is its “opposite” is a popular notion that has consequences. It is now acceptable to talk to loved ones, or claim to, but not to speak with entities that aren’t sanctioned deities or ‘nice’ spirits. This is hypocrisy, because many of these beings have ‘two-faces’. These gifts, and attempts, originally belonged to those that were fearless enough to go against the norm to get what they needed or wanted. It wasn’t a fad, and it was very serious. There was always an understood payment, which varied in practice and cultural ideals.

Now everything is instant gratification and entitlement. The practice has changed from being respectful (even fearful) of entities to treating them like they owe us something for simply being human. This spills into people’s practices, as they no longer give offerings or an exchange of energy with those they claim to work with, expecting the entity to be their slave. I would put New Age mediums in this category, too. Love and Light is not an offering –and it won’t protect you from something that most people don’t even understand.

Because the art of respect and courtesy, along with not learning the fundamentals, is being lost, there have been a rise in problems regarding the dead and other entities. I have seen attachments and possessions rapidly become more common in the last five years. People are confused as to why their methods backfire or don’t turn out as expected – after all they are all powerful humans that control their destiny! These delusions will bring about calamity, and sometimes a kind of death where the vessel may become empty and is utilized by whatever feels free to step in. I have seen several of these empty vessels within our local community. The interesting thing is that empty vessels will tell a truth to lure in clients and then lie throughout the rest of the session – something that is warned about in historical anecdotes when working with spirits.

Necromancy should only be reserved to those that not only dare (and have strong will), but know how spirits and entities work, and what they really are. Most of the dead called on are not even there. Most of these ‘mediums’ have an attachment whispering in their ear, telling them what the client wants to hear. There are some of the older rules and teachings that can be bent, but many are on point, such as identifying what spirits you are working with, being able to discern and command the truth, and giving offerings.

I work with many types of entities, and occasionally the dead. I have found that their personalities are diverse as the living. When working with the dead it is important to remember that if they are truly spirits – then they did not pass on and they will be the same type of person in death. That means that the father who was cruel to his family isn’t suddenly going to feel ‘sorry’ for his actions and want to tell his family he loves them and he’s going to a better place. It does mean that he will still justify his actions, and carry them out if he is displeased on the other side, too. People do not usually change during life, and even less in death. Anyone that claims different is trying to sell you a product –exchanging your hope for their greed and pride. It should also be noted that most people can’t contact those that have already been reborn or completely crossed over, because those types of souls are no longer within the realm of the Dead that intersects with the physical world.

One of the things that a lot of different older systems do warn about is that spirits do not like to be disturbed and they will lie. It is a given that they will lie. There are operations, devices, and tools that can be used to discern the truth. There are ways to bind an entity to truth – but that only works on lower level entities. This is also where you have to listen close to wording; if it is ambiguous then the entity is not willing to comply to what you wish to accomplish. Also, because of the evolution of words, meaning may have changed over time. This is why it is good to know the time period in which a spirit resided in life. I have other articles that goes more into the art of wording and vocabulary, one of which you can find here.

Offerings are another thing that the dead love. It shows respect, and gives them an anchor to this world. When a person channels without an offering, one of two things happen – the spirit will take energy from the vessel (leading to days of being tired or getting sick), or they will anchor themselves to the vessel to either feed through psychic connections, or possess the body itself. This is also why it’s important to have spotters during sessions; you may need other people to help push out the spirit and cut the left over cords. There is NEVER NOT an exchange of energy. It will be taken forcefully if an agreement isn’t arranged before hand. This goes for all entities, even one’s claiming to be ‘aliens’.

Regarding offerings, especially if what shows up isn’t the ‘true’ entity called on, you may noticed an increase of energy and suddenly want to get people to follow the entity. This is a different kind of exchange – essentially you are enticing people to feed a parasitical entity through you. This is how a lot of newer ‘cult’ leaders thrive; they are using their ecstatic spiritual experience to bring in new followers to a certain entity (sometimes one they let permanently possess their physical body). The congregation, or worshipers, in turn feed the entity with their own devotion.

This is why it is important to learn ‘stops’ and devices for truth telling and identifying a ‘spirit’ – many times they are actually entities that are vying for more power and have nothing to do with the intended being. This invitation anchors and feeds them.

Though energy and magic is neutral, it is important to remember that it all has consequences. Many which most people do not want to pay. So, here is a list of things to remember about necromancy:

1. Any technique in order to communicate with the dead is necromancy, including channeling and summoning the dead, and is historically tied to black magic.

2. The dead are the same as they are in life. This means their base personality and intentions are the same. It is also harder to change in death than in life.

3. Making contact isn’t exclusive to any one religion or belief – and doesn’t make it more ‘evil’ or ‘good’ in one or the other. It is still necromancy.

4. The dead, like all entities, need offerings or some kind of an exchange of energy – otherwise they will forcefully take what they want (sometimes more than needed). This can lead to severe fatigue and illnesses.

5. Channeling is a form of possession (you are letting something enter your body to communicate), and therefore you must take the same precautions as you would for any invocation.

6. The dead are notorious for lying – just like the living. Learn skills and/or use tools that help you discern the truth, and even bind them from lying. Just because you hear what you want, or what the client wants, does not mean it is is the truth – beware an overly friendly spirit.

7. Know thyself! This allows for you to catch any odd behaviors or emotions you are exhibiting. This may mean you have an attachment or possession from communicating with an entity or spirit. I would suggest a cleansing and cord cutting after each session. You can find instructions for cord cutting and cleansing from these links.
   

8. Love and Light, Jesus Christ, etc., is not going to hold sway on a lot of souls left behind. These are purely human constructions and thought forms. It is best to find older, ancient deities that can remove possessions (I find Anubis to be one of the best). You may also want to bring servitors and guardians which can help prevent accidents, and can help disengage with the dead. I would suggest asking a psychopomp like Samael, Azrael, Michael, Anubis, Osiris, Hekate, Hermes, Ereshkigal, etc. for suggestions to receive a Guardian or guide if you are working heavily with the dead. These usually require contracts themselves, but are a great way to have protection when working with any entity. Sometimes those that are viewed as ‘dark’ are better protectors and mediators. After all, Dark is just an energy and has no moral value.

9. Not everything that claims to be a spirit of the dead is what it claims. Many beings claim to be something they are not in order to feed, or achieve status. This is why it is important to know how to discern truth, learn signatures of certain types of beings, and learn what types of behaviors are exhibited by the dead versus other entities. I’ve seen low level entities be mistaken for the dead, demons, and even deities.

10. Safety First! It’s okay to abort evocations and invocations. Learn how to do this and practice before doing an actual ritual; this includes channeling. This is also why I suggest spotters if you have other practitioners that can help.

I would not suggest that those who are beginning magic and ritual interact with any beings that are related to death, chaos, and demons. The reason is that these beings themselves are dangerous and tricksters. You have to know yourself and be confident in your skills and abilities in order for these interactions to work – but it doesn’t make it any less dangerous. This is why precautionary action is needed, and after care. The ability to cut cords, detect behavioral changes, bless yourself and location, to win in a struggle of Will (which is more than determination – it is also knowing your strengths and weaknesses), and banish anything you call up, is essential. Some people are fast learners and have the power, for others it may take years or never. Gauging this ability means setting aside the falsities of ‘nothing can harm you if you don’t let it’ and that being human automatically puts you over dominion of all things (it doesn’t). You wouldn’t challenge a hungry female bear in heat with nothing but your bare hands, and you shouldn’t be challenging anything that can make your life a literal hell either.

Necromancy and witchcraft in general should be left to those that are willing to assess and take risks. Realizing that everything you do has consequences and it will eventually catch up to you – though maybe not how you imagined it.

In closing, necromancy is not a game. It’s not something to dabble in for fun, and it shouldn’t be used for mundane tasks like asking forgiveness or closure. It is, like all magic, a real force with real consequences. It should only be used after considering all the possible consequences, and then accepting whatever those consequences may be; regardless if they were calculated or not.

Remember, the dead are the same as they are in life, and that there are entities out there that are willing to do anything to capture you under their influence. This should help you with your decision regarding using ritual or possession to communicate with the dead. Is it worth it? Are you strong enough? Are you respectful? These are just some of the questions you should ask yourself before performing necromantic rituals. Stay smart, stay safe.

-Arachnia

Photo Credit: Seeking Credit

Beings of False Light

 

Beings of Light have been recorded throughout human history. They are usually associated with the Sun, Love, Divinity, and Knowledge. These traits, which many consider only belonging to the Light, are ingrained in our culture as desirable outcomes in our lives both here and in the hereafter.

In a world that is full of hatred and desolation, it is sometimes hard to continue without feeling there must be a purpose to life. The world can seem bleak and lonely, and many people silently slip into despair. Unfortunately, this is quite common. This is why I am writing about Beings of False Light – They convince you that only They are ultimately in control and can grant favors, leading a person to believe enlightenment is only through Them. This can be quite dangerous when you consider it promotes closed and concrete thinking, instead of being open to new ideas and information.

I am going to define these beings of False Light as any entity that uses deception to further their own agenda while putting their target at risk. These may actually be Light or Dark beings. The feeling and assignment of energy type has no moral attachment. It is this belief, that everything has a sense of morality as you personally view the world, that is used to manipulate a person.

There are many different reasons that an entity may appear to be a “Light being”. The most common reasons for deception, I have found, is for power and to feed off a person’s energy. Sometimes they appear to influence a person into manifesting another’s desire on the entity’s behalf in order to prove a point to a different practitioner. I have had the latter done to and for me. Influence and manipulation are a great tool for many beings’ agendas.

I’m not going to name any beings that have recently seemed to appear, more often than usual, as beings of Light – but aren’t. I decided that detailing a few truths and critical thinking techniques will help you determine this yourself.

The first time I encountered one of these being that greatly influenced my way of thinking was in 2015. I was studying mainly with Samael and Lucifer at the time. Though They are not fond of each other, They would work with me as a team, usually at different times. I was being groomed to open up publicly at about what I do, and possibly start a coven. I was still very concerned at the time that I was not doing the right thing for my spiritual path, or even in my personal life. I wasn’t convinced my anger was necessary, or my grief was justified. I felt lost, and questioned even the loyalty of the beings who showed me nothing but support during my darkest times.

One evening Samael told me that he wanted me to meet someone. I was, at the time, learning to trust myself and I was trying to trust Him. I agreed, and He had me go into a trance. What appeared before me was a bright sphere radiating out rays of light. I felt awe, terrified, and what I thought was unconditional love. It was overwhelming.

I nicknamed this being Mr. White. What it was I don’t know, even to this day. It wasn’t like anything I’ve ever met. I listened to what it had to say to me. It claimed it could set me free, and correct my path to the True Way. It claimed to be the Source and the All – the One True God. It said I was being led astray by some of the beings that I had pacts with and had let into my life. Mr. White preyed on my fear and doubt. It convinced me that what I was doing was wrong, and if I returned to the Light then It would guide me – and all would be right in my world.

I asked It to release me from any pacts where I was being deliberately led astray and from any beings that were effecting my True Path. I made sure to add that those that fell within these parameters could not contact me again. The only two beings that didn’t leave immediately were Lucifer and Samael; one my spiritual teacher, the other my spiritual guide. I disassembled all my altars and threw out thousands of dollars of jewelry, altar pieces, gifts to my Guardians, and most items that had to do with current path I was on. It hurt me, but I did it because I was in fear of my soul and how my spiritual practices were effecting my family.

An interesting thing started to happened. I had a glow to my face. I did start attracting more people that considered themselves Lightworkers. My life didn’t change at all, but I felt better about it. Sounds great, right? From my other articles you know that some beings feed off love, ecstasy, and devotion. I soon found out Mr. White was no exception when it came to feeding off positive emotions.

Soon after, my grandmother started to have complications so I went to the hospital to be with her. One of my Guardians, who was a Watcher, showed up. He was very business like and insisted that he was going in with me. I told him that he was banished, and I didn’t understand why he was able to show up. He asked me, “Do you think even the gods could keep me away from you?”

I saw another Guardian that I also assumed was banished, reluctantly showed up immediately after the Watcher’s words were spoken. She was very angry and felt that I had forsaken Her, but said she wasn’t leaving either. I didn’t understand how this was possible at the time. It never occurred to me that they did not meet the guidelines for banishment I had set. I thought They were just being stubborn.

It took me a few more weeks, but I finally caught on that the being Samael introduced to me was not a being of Light, and certainly not Love. Mr. White was used to test my convictions, my Will, and my loyalty. The reason my Guardians were still ‘allowed’ to come in times of need is because They couldn’t be banished – They didn’t even meet the parameters of the release. They left to prove a point – that I needed to learn who was really on my side and dig deeper to find my True Self. It was a relief when I realized this, as I knew They proved Themselves to be loyal and have my best interests in mind.

This lesson, while embarrassing, has been very valuable to me. I have been able to observe and create boundaries based on this experience, and the experience of others who have had the same problem. In fact, some of these people I was able to help them get back their agency so they could say, “No, more. I am not your puppet.”

I decided to list the top three warning signs that you may be dealing with a Being of False Light, even though I originally wrote pages of warning signs. I wanted this to be brief, and I also think it’s important to learn how to trust your own intuition and instincts.

How to Identify Beings of False Light

These are three ways to identify that you are being fooled into believing something is Light and has your best interests, when it really does not. My personal advice for when this happens would be to find a way to politely disengage, but become aggressive if it doesn’t leave. Most of these False Light beings are not even deities, so you can call on a deity of choice to help get rid of them. I prefer Anubis, Michael, or Samael depending on what I am banishing.

1. Claiming to be The Source. This is probably the most telling of signs that you are dealing with a being of False Light. I’m going to tell you a secret, but one that I think is important to reveal publicly – if there is a True Source, it’s so far removed that even the gods above the gods, above the gods don’t know where It truly resides or what It really is. Our dimension is relatively young, and we are nowhere near where a Source would be. If you believe it to be like light, which generally travels in one direction if not interrupted, then it would have a starting point, which we are no where near. It is closer to think of It like the Big Bang  – everything is expanding from that source. These so-called Light beings usually claim to be the All, the Divine, the One Creator, The Ineffable, etc. These beings are trying to make you feel insignificant without Them. They are using shock and awe to turn your own biases of Light and Dark against you. It is nice to have a clean, simple explanation for everything, but life is complicated. If anything tells you it knows everything, created everything, or can cure everything, then immediately banish it.
2. Wish Giver. Many entities, deities or not, like to appear as if they are benign or benevolent. If you look on this plane, and know about the different dimensions, you know that an exchange for anything being done is a general rule. So, anything that is trying to convince you that they are doing something extravagant out of the kindness of their heart, isn’t telling you the whole truth. They may promise wealth, love, a successful career, or even a new car. They claim it is a gift. Usually after the ‘love bombing’ the person effected becomes very devoted to the entity, even claiming that it is the only entity that truly can ‘get things done’. What is interesting is that this usually doesn’t last, but the person is convinced that it is something else – even other practitioners – stopping the ‘blessings’. I see this especially in those that have asked for power of some kind. The power eventually dwindles and leaves the person paranoid. This is why when something is given, or offered, I will make a direct exchange at the time so I don’t owe anything to the entity. Alternatively, I will decline the offer. This is because they can come and collect payment, whether you agreed to it or not, if you accept their gifts. The best advice is to live by the rule that nothing is free.
3. Vagueness. You may notice that many accounts with so-called Light beings are quite vague in both description and sometimes even titles. This is a misdirection, usually feeding off a person’s presumptions – and it is quite effective. You remember when I described Mr. White as being a bright orb radiating rays of Light? That is a vague appearance. These beings of False Light will ‘blind’ by appearing as pillars of light, orbs, humanoid shapes (sometimes with wings) that are ‘pure light’, and even as light itself filling up a room. This is a cloak to hide their true intent and features. Any being that is interested in building trust, will be dampen their “light aura” and allow you to see detailed features. If they are trying to deceive you, they will refuse to become more detailed. Some of them even flair up and become brighter. They may tell you that you can not understand what they are, or it would destroy your mortal body if they show you. If they were truly powerful, they could appear to you however they want – or however you would be able to understand them the best. If it was truly powerful, or a creator, it would understand how to best communicate with you in a way that builds trust, too. The same misdirection goes for titles like Satan, Gatekeeper, Yahweh, Director, Commander, the All, Mother/Father, etc. In the latter situation, you can ask entities you trust if they can determine titles from names, too.

As with all beings, including humans, it is best to exercise caution and boundaries. Critical thinking and common sense come into play during spirit communication.

Ask yourself these questions when dealing with ANY being:

• Is a specific name given? If so, do all the accounts with the name (if there are any) match what is being told?
• Is the being really all powerful? Can it instantly make anything happen? Alternatively, if it is all powerful then why is the world not perfect according to every living person?
• Can the being make themselves known to you without infantilizing or insulting you for asking?
• Essentially, what limitations does this being put on itself? If it was all powerful it would be able to do anything you ask, and not redirect your attention elsewhere.

Remember that it is you who have power over yourself, no matter the situation. You have the ability to decide what you wish to do with the situations presented, not some godly presence. Any being who tries to take away your free agency, and wants you to submit to them, is not interested in your growth but your servitude to them.

Stay strong and keep growing.

-Arachnia Stoneskull

Photo Credit: Seeking Credit

Angelic Scents for Incense and Oils

Angels are very versatile beings to call on. For example, you may call for protection, emotional regulation, and favors. Some of these scents are traditional, while others are requests I’ve had through various angels. These are general scents for all angels, including Archangels and the Fallen. You may create them through incense, oils, and herbs. You may use the oils for anointing, or use in a diffuser instead of incense. Regarding herbs, you may boil them or burn them in an incense bowl. There are various ways to use these scents, too. You may use them to summon angels, as an offering, a healing ointment, etc. If you are applying oils to your skin, use high quality oils and check to make sure the oil is safe to use as a topical ointment. They prefer almond oil as a carrier, but if you are allergic to a carrier oil, use one that works for you. I’ve also used alcohol with herbs and oils to make anointing oils.

Remember when dealing with angels, they deserve respect, and don’t answer to your demands if it is against their nature.

-Arachnia Stoneskull

 

Magickal Backlash: Prevention and Tips (Part 2)

 

The previous article that I wrote, Magickal Backlash: What Causes It , addressed the different types of backlash that one may experience. This piece will focus on how you can prevent backlashes.

How to Prevent Backlash

One of the necessary techniques in your workings is going to be preventing the magical backlash that may occur. Here are some things you can do to prevent backlash, or chaos.

1. Circle. The purpose of creating a circle is threefold; protection, amplification, and creating a bridge between worlds. There are some practitioners that don’t use circles when summoning. I think that this should only be attempted by adepts that deeply understand how summoning works, and has experience with the beings they are calling. Without this experience, you may have problems such as infestation of entities, or even a possession. Some people can deal with reversing this, while others actually make peace with it.
2. Breaking the Circle. Once, in a spiritual group, we decided not to release our circle just to see what would happen. We didn’t meet for about three weeks, and everyone’s life was messed up. We had the worst luck. When we released the circle at our next meeting, everything returned back to normal. This happened too when I watched a video on a ritual for Lucifer and the magician did not open the circle; the video just stopped at the end of the body of the ritual. I had to release the circle myself, but I had mistaken a deity that I called in before watching the video as the same one in the actual ritual. I had the other deity cause trouble for me for about a year until I figure out who They were.
3. Correct Titles. Titles, which are type of correspondence, can be very tricky – especially if there are many deities/entities that share the same title. For example, there are many Ba’als, Lucifers, Esophorous’s, Satans, and Queens of the Dead. It is better to call on a specific deity, or learn the proper correspondence for a particular deity/entity. You don’t want to call on the wrong deity and have different results than you expect. You can also make clear your intentions and ask that They forward your request to the correct deity/entity if necessary.
4. Linguistics. Knowing the root and history of a word can be vital for your ritual to work well. Some deities/entities use the original meaning of a word, instead of the current evolution or slang of the word. These entities do usually know what they are doing, so they get the better end of the bargain. It also helps if you know more archaic words that have more specific meaning than current vocabulary. There are some deities and entities that are in the know about slang and will still be cooperative when called in vernacular language. However, there are some that have a more serious personality and prefer archaic words. I think this is why original material and texts for research on a being are important. I also think it is important to word things carefully, as some words have evolved to have opposite meanings and an entity/deity will take advantage of that. I would suggest www.dictionary.com, which also includes a link to a thesaurus.
5. Naming the Right Target. Naming a target can be crucial in some spellwork, especially in healing. However, there are times, even when we’re absolutely sure that someone sent a curse, or did us wrong – it is not them. I always advise that in situations where the backlash will be especially painful, to just set the parameters of a spell for anyone that hits it. I also suggest if you do this, to ask for a sign that someone has done something against you. This way you know the truth. I have found out people I wouldn’t ever suspect of hurting me were not true friends, and were actually working against me.
6. Judge the Target’s Magick Ability. I can not stress this enough, but THERE ARE BIGGER FISH IN THE SEA THAN YOU. It’s why I try not get involved in witch wars or drama. I have seen a lot of people say they can command an army of demons, or are the most powerful beings in the universe, but are braggarts and liars. It is not a contest to see who is stronger, though many witches try that tactic to see how powerful you are. I would assess the person by their knowledge, who they know, and looking at their third-eye. You would be surprised how many people don’t actually have an ounce of magick in them, but people believe they do. Usually those that are powerful do not brag about it, and usually prefer to avoid drama. They also tend to put up a shield that renders their abilities nearly invisible. You may also want to consider if the person belongs in a coven, then get to know how powerful each member is. They may or may not be more powerful than you, but they can still cause inconveniences for some practitioners when a coven brings their talents together.
7. Personal Shields. This is very useful. In doing this, you are taking the initiative in preventing anything from hurting you. Personally I prefer a neutralizing shield that completely stops any energy or spells thrown at me. You can learn more HERE.
8. Neutralizing Circle. I like to shield my house, too. I treat my house as a temple, as such I don’t want anything dirty or negative in it – but especially, I do not want anything working against me in my house. I would suggest that you try a neutralizing circle around your house (though technically it is a sphere). This way the energy does not effect anyone else. If you like, you may “capture” the energy for later use after it has been neutralized.
9. Set Parameters in Workings. You may use this technique to draw something or someone to you. You may also use it as protection both defensively and offensively. What you may do is only limited by your imagination. Setting spells with a set of instructions will prevent and protect you and those you care about.
10. Learn Correct Correspondences. In the other article I touched on this and gave some examples. This is important. If you use the wrong correspondence your working may not be as powerful, or it may not happen at all. Some entities and deities get offended by the wrong correspondence, too. There are many correspondence books out there. Beware that some are not good, and others are outstanding. You may ask for recommendations from other practitioners, as more experienced practitioners know which books are good for ritual.
11. Learn Your Deity. There are a lot of people that mix up deities, or try to stretch the similarities of a word or foreign deity to fit in their way of thinking. I warn against this. There are some deities that seem similar, but are two different beings. An example would be Babalon and Lilith – they are two very different beings. I also found that the Greek gods that are mashed together with foreign deities are very testy and not very cooperative. They sometimes tend to cause problems. I have surmised that this may be because the original deities were two very different beings, such as Athena-Neith. I would also find out which deities get along, and which ones don’t. It’s not going to be productive if the two deities are warring. To find more mythology from the original source try www.sacred-texts.com.
12. Consider Alternatives. Instead of cursing, maybe bind or consider a Magickal No Contact Order. You may also consider healing what is making the person toxic, versus doing a karmic spell. It’s thinking outside the box  that prevents any nasty backlash.
13. Don’t Start Drama. This is one that I see a lot. We’ve all been in a situation where we start drama. In fact, I would say our magick community sometimes thrives on drama. This drama seems to escalate and curses are thrown. Instead of taking the bait just ignore or find a way to cut off the person/s. By not getting involved, you don’t have to worry about the instability of many practitioners.
14. Ignoring. The best way to avoid situations and taking the bait is to ignore a person. Many people are looking for admiration or competition. I find that ignoring such people diminishes their power and vampirism. In this case, as in the case of drama, I would see about getting protection through a law oriented deity. You just have to keep your nose clean and not start anything that isn’t deserved. It’s some of the best protection that you can get.
15. Remember Your Obligations. When you have an obligation to a deity or entity, they tend to get annoyed when you don’t fulfill it. Whether it is keeping altars, or honoring them on their days, there are many ways that we are asked to fulfill our obligations. There is usually some understanding when there is illness or an emergency, but they will collect their energy exchange regarding obligations.This also includes obligations to a coven, another witch, or anyone that you have made a promise to in some fashion.

This general overview should help when making decisions and going forward with your workings. Critical thinking is always the most important aspect of our practices, along with careful review. I am leaving some resources that have helped when casting spells. Hail Thyself and Thy Intelligence.

Resources:

www.dictionary.com

www.thesaurus.com

www.sacred-texts.com

www.wikipedia.com (You can usually find sources at the bottom of the page for more in depth research)

-Arachnia Stoneskull

Photo Credit: Seeking credit

Magickal Backlash: What Causes It? (Part 1)

 

Magickal backlash is a common event for many practitioners, and can cause problems in one’s daily life.

Sometimes it needs to happen in order for us to get what we need, other times it is something that can be avoided with the right techniques. This article will focus on what is necessary blowback and what is not. I will give you some tips for better rituals to help with backlashes in the next article.

Necessary Backlash

There are times that we have unexpected events from ritual. It may be good or bad. I don’t believe that Karma and the Rule of Three is applied at these times. I believe in action and consequences, and feel that a practitioner must accept the consequences of whatever magic, summoning, or energy that is sent out during a ritual. We can’t always know what the action of these consequences are until they happen. For example, you may send out a spell to destroy a person – it may work, but in the end the person cursed may become better for it, and eventually thrive.

Here’s a list of things that can count as necessary or typical backlash that may happen when doing ritual.

1. Justice. There are certain beings that their price to work with you is to do a type of cleansing. This may require that if you did similar things as the person you are asking for retribution against, then you may experience the same curse until your “karma” has burned off. The curse may not work if you have the wrong person, or they are found innocent. One being who will do this is Hekate. The deities/entities that are representatives of Eternal Law must follow it, in return you must accept this.
2. Growth. Many practitioners ask for a better life, a better partner, a better job, etc. Sometimes when we ask for things to be better, we are introduced to troubles and mayhem in our life. Usually this feels like a curse. Some people lose their job, home, or even their family. This is to help your growth, and usually your life will right it self for the better. If you resist though, there is a possibility that things may go wrong until you allow for certain events to happen and you take control of your life and situation.
3. Making Room. Similar to growth, it may cause chaos in your life until you accept it.  It’s similar to clearing junk out of your house. This may happen if you banish, bind, or cut cords with a person – chaos in your life is going to rearrange your relationships before settling down.
4. Payment. Despite the belief that many people don’t owe anything to the deities or entities that they work with, there is always an energy exchange of some kind. While incense, cakes, wine, even blood may entice a deity/entity to be summoned, this is not the final payment. They may require more worship by working with them more often, have you tell others of them (spreading their “fame”), but more likely than not they want you to do a favor for them. These are all types of an energy exchange. I have learned that it is easier to find out the details before agreeing on a payment. They all require an equal exchange of what you are asking. Whoever you are working with will acquire their payment, even if it is later on. Your life may be in chaos until the payment is made.
5. Wording – You Get What You Asked For. This is a difficult one, because it is similar to a preventable backlash – except you do get what you ask for. For example, I told Hekate that I didn’t want Her help, because I wanted to stand on my own two feet and didn’t want to use Her. This did not sit well with Her. I lost my friends, family, and community – even my Guardians were not allowed to help in a lot of areas in my life. I have since then apologized, and told Her I do need community and help. I meant well, and received exactly what I wanted, but it was not the intended outcome. It taught me a lesson in humility and the need for community – but it also taught me my strengths and weaknesses. This was an unexpected outcome, but I did get what I asked for.
6. A Deity/Entity/Energy is Already Involved in the Situation. There are situations where a person either asked for something, or has cast a spell, and wants it reversed. While there are safe ways to reverse certain spells, some need to run their course. When we interfere with workings that need to run their course, we can sometimes receive a backlash . This especially happens if we cast another spell that is doing the opposite of the original ritual without reversing or dispersing the first working. Be aware that some people have cursed themselves, or are cursed from another person, or even a deity. This is a lesson for everyone involved, and is something that is not preventable. If you become involved and make a decision to do whatever it takes to reverse a spell that needs to run its course, you need to accept the consequences. It is possible to reverse these types of spells, but to do it prematurely can take great sacrifice. From personal experience, I can tell you it is rarely worth it. This is because the person didn’t learn their lesson; they will be ungrateful and even start blaming you for all their woes. My best advice is once you realize what is going on to walk away, even if it is friends or family. The spell will run its course, and when the specifications are met the spell then it will disperse.

Preventable Backlash

There is backlash that can be avoided. Here are some types of backlash that may be avoided.

1. Wording. Wording is very important. Sometimes how you word a spell will effect it differently than you expected. For example, you may ask for a car that runs and will be low maintenance. What you may end up getting may not be a new car, but a junky looking car with all the specifications. The same goes for love spells; if you ask for a handsome lover that has passion and money, you may get a man that has other women on the side. Or it may be short lived. You just never know, so I would suggest being more specific.

   Also, there are some words that mean something different in the past than what we use now. You may want to look in a dictionary or thesaurus for the history of a word. The linguistics of a word can make all the difference in your spell, especially if the deity/entity was from a certain time period.

2. Romantic/Sexual Spells. This one can be tricky, and why I don’t do sex and love spells on a specific person. There are many things that can happen. It can be successful and both parties are satisfied with each other, or it may end in disaster where one party doesn’t want to be in a relationship any more and the other partner does. It can be either the spellcaster or the other person that does not want to break off the relationship. There is a possibility that it may lead to stalking or abuse on the partner that doesn’t want the relationship. When you cast a love spell, you may cast it on yourself – especially if it something you strongly desire. We all can cast the spell of love on ourself when we really want it.
3. Wrong Target. Sometimes you may use the wrong target in your ritual. Depending on if you called a being related of law, or a justice, they may not choose to help and even collect retribution on the practitioner calling them. Also, some people have such beings working with them, so they have protection or warnings from these beings. This has happened to me when a coven asked Samael for unwarranted retribution, and they ended up with the consequences. This is also why I would check out a person’s motive, and consult with my guides, before joining in on a spell.
4. Return to Sender. There are people that know there is a curse put on them, or they may do regular banishing. One way to banish things is to return it to the person that sent the curse or the entity. It is unfortunate that many people mistake a return to sender as an attack on them, when it is an actual an attack on theirself. One way you can identify a return to sender is that like events that you have placed on another person begin happening to you. Some people can detect another’s personal signature, and may mistakenly believe that the other person has cursed them in return. There is a possibility that both parties do a return to sender to each other multiple times, and may end up building up and creating backlash for not just the practitioners involved, but also those around them.
5. Using the Wrong Correspondence. There are certain correspondences that have gained power through belief. Depending on what tradition you belong to, or what type of spells you are doing, there are correspondences that work better than others for whatever you are doing. A popular correspondence is candle colors. For example, the color black is traditionally seen as evil, but black itself is the absence of color. Because it is absent of color, it makes for a great candle color to banish or exorcise entities. However, black in the Western philosophies is evil and denotes death (note that death is white in Eastern philosophy). If you are using Western magick , then black candles can be used to open gates to Cthonic planes, including the Underworld and the Abyss. This is also a popular candle color for general summoning of Cthonic deities (like Hekate, Samael, Azrael), demons (Asmodeus, Beelzebub, and Ba’al), and the dead. (Note: These deities and entities do have specific colors, but that is for you to find out. Black, while used for summoning, is a basic color and is a lot more effective with other specific colors to the deity/entity.)

   Sometimes we do the wrong the correspondences. For example, I found that even using the wrong incense can call up different deities if they share titles. One such mistake is the calling on the Archangel/Deity of Lucifer with Jupiter incense. This will bring a whole another entity that I call Jupiter-Lucifer – the god Jupiter/Zeus. If you want to call in the rebel Archangel Lucifer, you would use Frankincense. I have also seen many people describe Lucifer with long white hair, blue eyes, and even a lightening bolt on the forehead, come to them as a lover or guide – this is actually Jupiter/Zeus (remember He loves to trick people into loving him, or for sex). Here is the only mention I have seen of Jupiter being called Lucifer before Venus (I am still looking for more substantial evidence), which helped me when I dealt with the wrong entity that created chaos on in my life: https://gnosticwarrior.com/morning-star.html

6. Unexpected Results from Intentions. Intention is very important. Like wording and details, it directs our Will in ritual and life. However, sometimes the result of our intentions, even if they are well meaning, may backfire. For example, I helped a woman send a healing spell to her son in prison. He was not receiving the healthcare he needed for an infection. After the spell, both of us were very ill for a few days. I knew that she had asked Hekate for justice and to punish whoever had set up her son for being charged with a felony. I found out later that even though she did not believe her son did it, that he was in reality guilty. The backlash came because she asked Hekate to punish whoever did the crime, and we were essentially going against the spell she cast by trying to heal him. This is also why I interview people now that want a curse removed, an entity banished, or an exorcism. Sometimes people get what they deserve, and it is not our place to help them, but let them learn.

I cannot express enough that no matter the outcome, we must take responsibility for our own actions. I have tried to reverse spells that I set with very strong parameters, or I have seen my curses actually benefit people that I despise. I have since then learned to accept the consequences of my actions. However, it has been a good learning experience. As the saying goes, “Practice safe hex!”

-Arachnia Stoneskull

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