MAGIC IS NOT TO BE USED TO GAIN POWER OVER OTHERS.
a. Magic is a technique used in developing your own 'power from within'. Spells that are directed at gaining power over others weakens the 'power from within'.
(1) Aside from the damage done to oneself, it is important for another reason.
(a) Many people who do not understand the laws of magic are afraid of being attacked magically and are given to paranoia.
(b) The witch's main stock-in-trade used to be removing a competitor's hexes and preparing charms to protect their clients.
(c) While true psychic attacks are EXTREMELY RARE a persons guilt makes up for any lack and after using 'forbidden' help, their paranoia leads them to seek protection from the same person they just turned to in desperation. Do your self a favor, and resist the temptation to 'help' these types.
(2) Most magical formularies consist of formulae gathered and tested by witches as well as many charms to protect the common man from those same witches who sold them their charms.
D. Times and Correspondences
1. I mentioned earlier that timing and the right props are considered important in spellcasting.
a. Over the years, systems of Correspondences were developed which assigned certain attributes and aspects to the seven ancient planets of Astrology.
(1) Each planet was assigned a God or Goddess, who embodies the attributes the ancients wished to invoke.
(a) Each of the Gods and Goddesses were assigned an hour of the day, color, incense, metal, number, signature, plant, mineral, musical note, and animal or bird.
E. General Guidelines for Casting Spells
1. Set aside a room for your magical work.
a. Decorate it with things that put you in a magical mood.
(1) Remember to use things that stimulate all five of your physical senses.
(a) Some obvious things would be the use of appropriate colors for sight, incense for scent music for hearing, wines for taste, and textures for feel.
2. If you do not have a room you can set aside exclusively for your magical work then choose a room that can be locked while you do your work.
a. This will allow you to work undisturbed.
(1) In any case you should clean your work area periodically with a purifying powder/floorwash to keep away negative vibrations.
3. Set up an altar to be used as your worktable.
a. It's size and shape should be those that appeal to you.
(1) Placing candles and other items that assist you to concentrate on the work at hand is a good practice.
(a) Some people like to cover their altar with a white cloth and place fresh cut flowers on it every day.
4. Always use the best candles, oils, and incenses that you can afford, or make your own.
a. Scrimping on materials has a negative effect on the subconscious.
(1) Don't forget that the subconscious is very good at making do with raw materials that it can shape to it's own use.
5. Never cast a spell until you have a clear and concise picture of what it is you wish to accomplish.
a. This ties in with the saying "Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it."
6. Always ground out any extra energy you raise for the spell, and bind the spell so that it expires within the pre- determined amount of time.
7. Once you have cast the spell do not discuss it with any one until after it has worked.
a. Most spells peter out because the person who casts it boasts about it to so many people, that the spell is robbed of power before it has a chance to work.
(1) The ancient bond placed on the magician was to dare, to know and to keep silent.
8. And at all times, remember the Rede: "An ye harm none, do what you will."
b. You do not know -all- the effects of your spell.
(1) Therefore, use magick sparingly, if at all.
