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Beginner witch’s glossary of commonly used terms

thewitchandthewoodland:

This isn’t complete; it is generally for beginner use so they can familiarise themselves with some of the terminology which often pops up around tumblr, in books, etc.

Altar- A space where you can conjure spells, or worship deities. This is where tools are presented and can be decorated in any way. Often these can be in the form of a travel altar.

Black Salt- A powdery substance made from the ashes of incense and salt. Used to banish negativity and can be used in spells.

Book of Shadows- A book which contains personal information and connections to witchcraft; a journal for witches. It can contain anything you wish.

Charging- To fill an object or spell with power. It can be charged with positive energy or can be charged to become aligned with a certain purpose.

Circle Casting- Creating a space around yourself when performing a spell, which is closed off until the spell is complete, to contain power and protect the caster. It is often done with a wand.

Cleansing- To clean an object that has been used for witchcraft or divination purposes; for example cleansing crystals or tarot cards after use.

Correspondence- A connection or close similarity with elements, deities, objects, etc. For example Aphrodite’s correspondences would be things like pink, roses, love, Venus, apples, honey, etc.

Cursing- A spell or concentration of negative energy which is focused on a target. This is often used in cases where the target has done something unforgivable, and the level of harm from the curse is gauged based on the amount of energy the caster produces for the spell. 

Deity- A god or goddess. The plural for this word is Deities.

Divination- A practise widely used in witchcraft, although it is separate. It is an umbrella term for many specific practises such as Tarot, Pendulum reading, Bibliomancy, Runes, Shufflemancy, Tasseomancy, Scrying, etc.

Familiar- An animal/ plant/spirit of any form which has a special magical connection with you. They are able to walk through a cast circle without breaking it, and will be forever bonded to you magically. A familiar will find you 

Grimoire- This is similar to a Book of Shadows; except it does not contain personal information, but instead acts as a reference book which you would fill with correspondences, information on your craft and often contains spells. The two types of book can be combined however.

Grounding- Syncing yourself with the earth or another source of energy either physically or mentally before performing a spell.

Incantation- A line or verse of words that are carefully put together to bring energy and power to a spell.

Incense- Either in the form of a stick or cone, they are made with natural material which when burned in a suitable holder, will provide aromas and smoke; often used to cleanse the surrounding area.

Sachet- A sealed bag made from fabric or other suitable material which is filled with herbs, flowers, or whatever materials the creator chooses. It is often kept under a pillow or carried for desired purposes.

Sigil- A symbol which is drawn which a specific intention in mind. It is made up of lines and sometimes dots, can be straight or curved and can take on any form the creator desires. They can be drawn onto objects or skin to draw in desired power.

Spell Jar- A jar which is commonly filled with herbs which is then stoppered with a cork and then sealed with wax or in other methods. These can be cleaned out and refilled when the effects have worn out.

Travel Altar- A smaller version of an altar, but carries the same tools. It is often carried in a tin or bag which can be set up anywhere.

Witches Ladder- A braided piece of ribbon, cord or string which has been decorated with objects such as animal bones, feathers, crystals, etc. It is hung around the home to provide protection, or to bring positivity. It can be tailored with other intentions to suit the user.

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