(Part 3) Reddit mentions: The best wicca, witchcraft & paganism books

> Is this really offensive? If it is, please explain it to me. It's not enough to tell me it is, I've got to know why.

For some it will be, for others not so much.

If you asked me if you could approach paganism, but dropping the "supernatural" stuff from it, I'd say "Hell yeah!" because I do just that. I don't really have much use for divination or crystals or anything like that, so I just don't use them in my practice. I can see why some would use it and I understand how some use them practically, but I just don't feel the need for it.

For me, Paganism is really about the Natural world. The Earth is my Mother (My goddess, if you might like to say so), and the Sun is my Father (My god, if you will). I know a lot of other pagans do this do, but not all. Some pagans use pantheons for deity, but deity is not a necessity in paganism.

I still like ritual, though I don't do much pagan ritual in my personal practice, because the symbols used in it represent natural forces and things going on in the world. A "supernatural non-believer" could find use and spiritual meaning in ritual (as well as gods and crystals and magic), because to me (and surely others out there) they're just symbols, but symbols have a lot of personal power. They can help you change your mindset, help you understand things better.

Some will find calling things "supernatural" offensive, because some pagans do believe "supernatural" things exist, and don't view them as "supernatural." This is perfectly okay, to me, it's just not my way of approaching things.

TL;DR It will vary from person to person, and can be a sensitive topic for some. Not for all, though.

As for books without too much of a supernatural inclination about Paganism, I'd try out Ronald Hutton. His Triumph of the Moon is more about the history and roots of paganism, but he's very detailed and descriptive, as well as academic.

Margot Adler's Drawing Down the Moon is of the same vein as Triumph of the Moon. Both are pretty heavy and tome-like, but are filled with invaluable information.

If you're looking into Wicca theology, I found Bryan Lankford's Wicca Demystified to be a great in depth explanation, especially for an "outsider." A lot of the "beginners" books on Wicca you'll find are heavy on ritual and magic, and seeing how you don't have much fondness for it, I think Lankford's book might be better suited for you.

And I haven't read it, but Dana Eiler's Practical Pagan might be of interest to you. It seems to have the less "magicy-supernatural" and more of a mundane, practical approach to paganism. Not sure about it, though. You might find some good info in the amazon's review section of the book.

I feel like there's another book or two that I've read that taps into what you're looking for, but I just can't think of it. There are some cool anthologies full of essays of paganism in the real world, which I find are invaluable for their information, and not so heavy on the "supernatural side," like Pagan Visions for a Sustainable Future and Celebrating the Pagan Soul.

PS

>I'm use to kinda being primed to attack fundamentalism in Christianity and I've got little good to say about Islam at all.

I wouldn't be so dismissive of Christianity and Islam in general. Interfaith can be a very important. You don't have to agree with what they believe, but personally I know a few Muslims who are very kind and generous, and if they give credit to their religion for their kindness and generosity, I wouldn't say there's nothing good to say about Islam. But that's neither here nor there.

I can't imagine why she would publish false information, but I guess maybe-possibly-potentially she did this to further an agenda of some sort? I haven't read much of her work as I'm not Wiccan, but it's enough to know she and people like Koetting (A grim-dark edgy emo occult author who charges like 800$ for his books) are to be avoided like the plague.

Any other books I could suggest?

• Call of the Horned Piper by Nigel A. Jackson Is a great read if you're interested in "traditional craft". He details the making of several important witching tools, from the stave (A staff of sorts, usually forked at the top) to the besom (a broom) to the athame (A Ritual Knife) and a bunch of other things.
  
  
• Treading the Mill I have not yet gotten my hands on this, but I see it often enough in trad. circles and even other authors recommend it so much for beginners, it's worth including.
  
  
• The Devil's Dozen: 13 Craft Rites of the Old One by Gemma Gary Gemma Gary is a highly respected author in the field of trad craft and Ye Olde British/Celtic traditions. Her books are eloquent, delightful, and historically sound, and honestly I consider her fairly unmatched in the field of British craft. I don't know if I would necessarily suggest her as the first author you should read, but she's definitely good and you should check out her works if you have the chance.
  
  
• Animal Speak by Ted Andrews A book on animals and the spirits of animals, it's a good solid read especially for beginning work with animal spirits and familiars. Once again, if you're into that.
  
  
• Sarah Anne Lawless's Blog - If you want to do some reading on the subject of Trad Craft, Sarah Lawless's blog is a good source. I believe her blog also has a list of recommended books for beginners too, if you want to check that out. :)
  
  I have other suggestions as well, but they're much more specified to trad craft, like Liber Nox, The Visions of Isobel Gowdie, Cunning Folk and Familiar Spirits, or New World Witchery's Blog, but I think you've got a good handle so far!
  
  Good luck on your path. :)
  
  
  

Always happy to help! For more info on Dionysus:

Subreddits:
/r/dionysus

Books to learn more about Dionysus (I used Amazon because it is easy, you may find these cheaper elsewhere):

Dionysus Myth and Cult - Considered by some Dionysians to be the Dionysian Bible.

Archetypal Image of Indestructible Life - Also very helpful scholarly source.

Ecstatic - Written by a Dionysian priest, this is a really good book for beginning to know the god.

Tending the Bull - Written by the same guy, focuses on a more specific aspect of Dionysus, within the Starry Bull tradition (Will explain more in the website section). If you do find yourself interested in the Starry Bull tradition, this author has several other books on amazon, you can find them on his author page.


Websites:

The Dionysion - Kinda old, lots of sites missing, but still has some useful info.

Temple of Dionysus - Another old site, might be of some use though.

The Theoi page for Dionysus - Lots of scholarly info on the god.

The Bakcheion - This is the website of the Starry Bull. It's a bit much at first, but the information is well sourced and presents a side of Dionysus many don't see. Please be sure to practice khernips before exploring their pantheon page, but their Dionysus page has a lot of great things, specifically the Feast of the Senses and Devotional Activities for Dionysus.

Here is my post after my first attempt at Enthousiasmos (Possession by the god)

Here is my post about one of my early rites for Dionysus.

Labrys, a Greek polytheist group, also celebrates Phalleforia, a Dionysian festival, once a year in Athens, and has some pretty good videos of the festival. Here are some:

2017 Phalleforia - 7:33 The official video of the festival

2017 Phalleforia - 4:19 A better edited version

2016 Phalleforia - 28:02 Unofficial video of the festival

2016 Phalleforia - 18:11 Official video of the festival

Finally here is Daemonia Nymphe's Hymn to Bacchus, probably the most well known musical hymn for the god.

Edit: Sorry if this is too much, but I missed one thing. The Bacchae's Sacred Chants from the Greek movie Two Suns in the Sky.

Here is a book about glamour magic. The author was on the Rune Soup podcast a few months ago, which I listened to, though I haven't read this yet:

https://www.amazon.com/Glamour-Magic-Witchcraft-Revolution-What/dp/0738750387/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517603696&sr=8-1&keywords=glamour+magic&dpID=518KEQwJBzL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch

You'll be working mostly with two forces: Venus and Moon. Timing is everything. Ideally, you'll do the magic on a Friday at dawn, when Venus is not conjunct with Mars and not conjunct with Saturn, during a waxing (increasing) moon, as close to full as possible. For extra points, Venus should be in the sign of Taurus or Libra during the hour set aside for the working. It can be a little tricky making all these correspondences line up, but you can probably find a Friday morning in the next few months that will come close to meeting most of those requirements. [You don't need the timing to be 100%. If it's a Friday at dawn and the moon is waxing, you'll probably be fine. But you can make the magic even more effective the closer you get to being 100% with all the timing correspondences.]

You'll want a lot of red roses handy. Venus is all about the red roses. Scatter them about the working area. Also provide offerings such as strawberries, whipping cream, honey and bread or pound-cake. For candles, use GREEN beeswax candles (definitely do not use red ones, as those correspond to Mars not Venus). For incense, you'll want myrtle and rose or rose oil, though there are a number of other herbs you can use if you're allergic.

If I were you, I'd use that magic hour to make a Venus talisman. You can read all about talisman construction in the Greater Key of Solomon though you may be able to find easier-to-understand instructions online.

A double-sided talisman of the second and fourth pentacles of Venus fosters "love, beauty, respect, desirability and passion. It is said to be unbeatable and unequaled for all matters of the heart. Good for all love matters, attracting a loved one, and obtaining grace and honor." You can make a Venus talismans out of paper, wax, or (ideally) copper. Once it's constructed you fumigate with incense and prayers.

You might also want to look into a Lunar/Luna talisman, for making people perceive you different. Obviously the correspondences are different. You can learn about these correspondences if you read about "Planetary Magic". There's a relatively modern book called "Advanced Planetary Magic" that I found helpful.

Other talismans:

2nd Pentacle of Mercury: conveys personal magnetism upon the owner.

Here's a list:

https://www.carolinaconjure.com/seals-of-solomon.html

As for all the astrological stuff, hard to get your head around all that. Astrology for Dummies or one of those introductory books on "electional astrology" may help. I consult with an astrologer every few months to identify appropriate times to work.

For reliable sources:

High Magic's Aid by Gerald Gardner

Aradia: Gospel of the Witches by Charles Godfrey Leland

1: Witchfather: A Life of Gerald Gardner: Into the Witch Cult by Philip Heselton

Lid off the Cauldron by Patrica Crowther

The Triumph of the Moon by Ronald Hutton

Foundations of Practical Magic: An Introduction to Qabalistic, Magical and Meditative Techniques by Israel Regardie

A Witches' Bible by Janet and Stewart Farrar

Witchcraft for Tomorrow by Doreen Valiente

Modern Magick: Eleven Lessons in the High Magickal Arts by Donald Michael Kraig

Magical Power For Beginners: How to Raise & Send Energy for Spells That Work by Deborah Lipp

Fifty Years Of Wicca by Frederic Lamond

For essential materials,

-An athame

-A wand

-A pentacle

-A chalice

-Incense and censer

> Would I be considered a true Wiccan if I hid it from those around me?

Yes, you would be considered a "true Wiccan." Most Wiccans since the inception of Wicca kept secret the fact they were witches. It's only in very recent times that people are so forward about the fact that they're witches. I myself keep it pretty well hidden. Only those in my coven and my closest loved ones know that I'm Wiccan.

>When choosing a patron/matron do you pick from literally any gods/goddesses?

The concept of a patron/matron deity is relatively new to Wicca. Originally, the Goddess worshiped by the Witches was the Lunar Goddess of Fertility - often called Diana, Aradia, Hekate, Isis, the Queen of Elphame, etc. The original God worshiped by the Witches was the Horned God of Death and Resurrection - often called Pan, Cernunnos, Janicot, etc. However, in recent times, Wiccans (myself included) have begun working with all types of Pagan deities. So in short, yes, you can pick any god or goddess you feel a connection with.

> Can you celebrate the Wiccan holidays and still celebrate things like Christmas?

Yes, most Wiccans still celebrate cultural holidays such as Christmas.

Do you want it to be a wand? Does that feel right? Trust your intuition. There's also no one right way to use a wand: in my magical tradition they correspond with air but in most traditions they correspond with fire. It can be used to direct energy or draw boundary lines. IMO you're moving energy primarily with your body, a tool just helps. Just like a hammer or screwdriver works. If you lack a wand you can do the same thing by just pointing with a finger and moving energy.

There's lots of ways to consecrate a magical tool, but you can make up your own ritual if you want; eg cleanse the wand (salt, smoke, whatever you do), open a circle, call in whatever entities/elements/etc you want, do the consecrating thing (it can even as basic as just be stating your will or intent, and/or asking the entities you work with to help), then close the circle. Here's the instructions I followed by my tradition but if you're new to magical stuff I'd recommend getting something like this e-book, it's $5 and goes over all the basics in a way that's very accessible and can be generalized to a lot of different traditions, it uses the four elements to consecrate stuff.

I also think it's good practice to leave an offering if you take something from a living plant. I got my wand off Etsy, some witch named Blink from County Cork in Ireland drags old preserved black bog wood out the peat bog and hand carves it into a simple, plain, clean spindle of wood (it only cost like $20 so I gave a huge tip). Since I primarily work with Gaelic deities and my ancestry on my mom's side is Irish I feel like it really gives me a connection to my spiritual roots. The bog wood has this energetically heavy & strong feel, like a big pickup truck lol. You'll know what's right for you, and you can always experiment and make another wand later if you want something different.

Feel free to let us know how it works out!

I think the reply you got from the other poster is quite good, then. I know very little about high quality sources on this sort of thing.

Maybe not what you're looking for, but have you seen the first season of the HBO show True Detective? It's fantastic, and on this subject.

As far as books go, I know Arthur Edward Waite was an early authority on all things esoteric, and he does appear to have [a highly rated book on black magic.] (https://www.amazon.com/Black-Magic-Arthur-Edward-Waite/dp/0877282072/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1511225241&sr=8-3&keywords=black+magic+book) Apparently [this one] (https://www.amazon.com/Black-Arts-Witchcraft-Demonology-Throughout/dp/0399500359/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1511225315&sr=8-4&keywords=black+magic+book) is also quite good (again, just based on my brief Amazon search), and may be up your alley.

EDIT: Oh, and re: general critiques of religion, stay far away from New Atheists like Richard Dawkins or Sam Harris - this stuff if tripe, and there is better atheist literature out there. Check out Bertrand Russell, or better yet, Ludwig Feuerbach, Friedrich Nietzsche, Karl Marx, Sigmund Freud. I'd be happy to provide more specific references for these thinkers as well. I'm sure there are less highbrow atheist writers who are also good, I just don't know about them, and a lot of them today fall into the "New Atheist" category.

Hi, I'm an AODA member. Sorry I didn't see this post until just now.

1. AODA's suggested rituals are designed with gods in mind, but AODA only requires a belief in something greater than yourself. When I joined, I was atheistic and my belief was in the natural world and universe being far greater than myself.
   
   I'm a polytheist now, but I know advanced-grade AODA members who are not theistic. You'll find some AODA members calling upon land spirits in place of gods, for instance.
   
   In your rituals, you can input gods, spirits, ancestors, or whatever is right for you. JM Greer has created a number of suggestions for observing the wheel of the year, based on Celtic gods and figures from Arthurian lore. He even created a Wheel of the Year for Christo-Druids that assigns each station to a Christian holy day and suggests different archangels and saints to call upon in the rituals. Just to give you an idea of how out-of-the-box you can get.
   
   
2. It takes three years to complete AODA's curriculum, and the fees for the whole shebang come out to $300, I think. So essentially you would never have to pay the organization more than that over your entire membership with them, and it's spread out over quite a bit of time. I think AODA might be the cheapest order, but on the flip side I think it has the least materials.
   
   
3. JM Greer outlines rituals in The Druidry Handbook. Aside from the grove openings and closings, he does it more to demonstrate what rituals can look like rather than to say "AODA members must perform these" or even "should perform these". AODA encourages its members to craft rituals to suit their circumstances and beliefs.
   
   
4. Not a question for AODA, so I'll let the OBODies and ADFers answer that.
   
   
5. This is tricky for any Druid order, as all of them are syncretic and innovative rather than reconstructive. AODA requires reading the Mabinogion as part of its curriculum, and some elements of its suggested rituals are rooted in Celtic traditions. I think the most significant thing it brings to the table in contrast to the other Druid orders are its emphasis on magic and ecology, which in my opinion are key elements that should be woven into any pagan practice that aims to be traditionally Celtic. However, its magical teachings are essentially a Celt-ification of Rosicrucian magic with some added neopagan elements rather than an attempt to reconstruct traditional practices.
   
   Now that I am polytheistic, I am more and more reconstructive in my approach. Without having followed AODA practices and reading JM Greer's teachings, I never would have understood magic or believed in gods, both of which are fundamental to traditional Celtic paganism in my opinion. A lot of people view Druidry and CR as being at odds with each other, but I reject that. I think AODA laid the foundation on which I'm going to ultimately build a more reconstructive practice.
   
   You're right that ADF is the "winner" on this point, but ADF also requires a belief in and commitment to the gods. So you will need to come to terms with polytheism before joining.
   
   EDIT: At the end of the day, I see Druidry as an open and diverse religion that is rooted in Celtic culture and which offers organizations and practices that are effective at initiating newcomers into paganism by giving them accessible and digestible practices they can use right off the bat. What Druidry lacks, though, is that it is not very rigorous about replicating and preserving historical practices. ADF is supposed to be the antidote to that problem, and in many ways it is, but it too is not fully reconstructionist.
   
   There are some advantages to this, but someone who really wants historically-based practices will essentially need to practice reconstructionism on the side (quite a few ADFers do this, actually). For more information about Celtic reconstructionism, you can check out /r/paganacht as well as books like Pagan Portals: Irish Paganism and organizations like Gaol Naofa.
   
   AODA does not have any language learning material that I'm aware of.

Absolutely! Rituals that arise from your mind and heart will be more effective.

A few caveats for you, however:

1. As both an art and a craft, magic(k) has a certain set of “rules” that must be learned, just as in any other art/craft, before they are broken, otherwise we’re just playing with candles (not that that isn’t magical in itself, albeit a bit dangerous). If you raise power really well by having a bad ass homemade ritual, but you can’t effectively direct that power, then the ritual on the whole wasn’t magically effective. Said ritual might be mystical for you and put you in an altered state, but real magic requires willful, boldly directed power.
   
   
2. Take time to find rituals in print that you find inviting. Take these rituals and copy them down, leaving a double space between each line. Use the spaces between the lines to completely rewrite the text in your own words, while still staying true to the overall form and structure of the working. Most witchcraft rituals have a common configuration, i.e. first the preparation of body, mind, and space; then consecration of items; then creating the sacred circle or holy space; then the raising of power/energy and directing it to its target; then grounding yourself; then closing. If you’re celebrating something or invoking divinity then that needs to find a comfy home somewhere in there, too.
   
   
3. No matter what ritual you create, PRACTICE IT until the dialogue and gestures are fully memorized or familiar to such a degree that they flow easily from you, so that your mind and will power can properly accompany the ritual without (too much) distraction.
   
   
4. Here’s a reliable book about how to understand and create Wiccan ritual, but you can use it to apply to other traditions as well:
   
   The Elements of Ritual
   
   
5. Also, because you’re broke, use this online database to find what you need to learn:
   
   The Eye

The Following list is taken from the Witches & Warlocks FB page. (This is Christian Day's group)

Witches and Warlocks Recommended Reading List
This is a collection of books recommended by our admins and participants in the group. Books must be approved by the admins so if you'd like to see one added to the last, please post it in the comments at the bottom of this list and, if it's something we think is appropriate, we'll add it! We provide links to Amazon so folks can read more about the book but we encourage you to shop at your local occult shop whenever possible! :)


BEGINNER'S WITCHCRAFT BOOKS

Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft
by Raymond Buckland
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0875420508

Drawing Down the Moon: Witches, Druids, Goddess-Worshippers, and Other Pagans in America
by Margot Adler
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0143038192

Grimoire of the Thorn-Blooded Witch: Mastering the Five Arts of Old World Witchery
by Raven Grimassi
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578635500

The Inner Temple of Witchcraft: Magick, Meditation and Psychic Development
by Christopher Penczak
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738702765

The Kybalion: The Definitive Edition
by William Walker Atkinson (Three Initiates)
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1585428744

Lid Off the Cauldron: A Wicca Handbook
by Patricia Crowther
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1861630328

Mastering Witchcraft
by Paul Huson
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0595420060

Natural Magic
by Doreen Valiente
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0919345808

Natural Witchery: Intuitive, Personal & Practical Magick
by Ellen Dugan
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738709220

Old World Witchcraft: Ancient Ways for Modern Days
by Raven Grimassi
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578635055

The Outer Temple of Witchcraft: Circles, Spells and Rituals
by Christopher Penczak
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738705314

Power of the Witch: The Earth, the Moon, and the Magical Path to Enlightenment
by Laurie Cabot
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0385301898

Solitary Witch: The Ultimate Book of Shadows for the New Generation
by Silver RavenWolf
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738703192

Spirit of the Witch: Religion & Spirituality in Contemporary Witchcraft
by Raven Grimassi
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738703389

Witch: A Magickal Journey
by Fiona Horne
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0007121326

Witchcraft for Tomorrow
by Doreen Valiente
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0709052448

Witchcraft Today
by Gerald Gardner
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0806525932
The Witches' Craft: The Roots of Witchcraft & Magical Transformation
by Raven Grimassi
http://www.amazon.com/dp/073870265X
The Witching Way of the Hollow Hill
by Robin Artisson
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0982031882

WITCHCRAFT HISTORY AND RESOURCE BOOKS

Aradia or The Gospel of the Witches
by Charles Godfrey Leland
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0982432356

Encyclopedia of Mystics, Saints & Sages: A Guide to Asking for Protection, Wealth, Happiness, and Everything Else!
by Judika Illes
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0062009575

The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft and Wicca
by Rosemary Ellen Guiley
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0816071047

Etruscan Roman Remains
by Charles Godfrey Leland
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1494302519

The God of the Witches
by Margaret Murray
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0195012704

The Weiser Field Guide to Witches, The: From Hexes to Hermione Granger, From Salem to the Land of Oz
by Judika Illes
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578634792

ADVANCED BOOKS ON WITCHCRAFT AND MAGIC

Blood Sorcery Bible Volume 1: Rituals in Necromancy
by Sorceress Cagliastro
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1935150812

The Deep Heart of Witchcraft: Expanding the Core of Magickal Practice
by David Salisbury
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1780999208

Teen Spirit Wicca
by David Salisbury
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1782790594

Enchantment: The Witch's Art of Manipulation by Gesture, Gaze and Glamour
by Peter Paddon
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1936922517

Initiation into Hermetics
by Franz Bardon
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1885928122

Letters from the Devil's Forest: An Anthology of Writings on Traditional Witchcraft, Spiritual Ecology and Provenance Traditionalism
by Robin Artisson
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1500796360

Magical Use of Thought Forms: A Proven System of Mental & Spiritual Empowerment
by Dolores Ashcroft-Nowick and J.H. Brennan
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1567180841

Magick in Theory and Practice
by Aleister Crowley
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1500380679

The Plant Spirit Familiar
by Christopher Penczak
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0982774311

Protection and Reversal Magick
by Jason Miller
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1564148793
Psychic Self-Defense
by Dion Fortune
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578635098
The Ritual Magic Workbook: A Practical Course of Self-Initiation
by Dolores Ashcroft-Norwicki
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578630452
The Roebuck in the Thicket: An Anthology of the Robert Cochrane Witchcraft Tradition
by Evan John Jones, Robert Cochrane and Michael Howard
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1861631553

The Satanic Witch
by Anton Szandor LaVey
http://www.amazon.com/Satanic-Witch-Anton-Szandor-LaVey/dp/0922915849
Shadow Magick Compendium: Exploring Darker Aspects of Magickal Spirituality
by Raven Digitalis
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003VS0N5K
The Tree of Enchantment: Ancient Wisdom and Magic Practices of the Faery Tradition
by Orion Foxwood
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578634075
The Underworld Initiation: A journey towards psychic transformation
by R.J. Stewart
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1892137038

HERBALISM, CANDLES, INCENSE, OILS, FORMULARIES, AND STONES

A Compendium of Herbal Magic
by Paul Beyerl
http://www.amazon.com/dp/091934545X

Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs
by Scott Cunningham
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0875421229

The Enchanted Candle: Crafting and Casting Magickal Light
by Lady Rhea
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0806525789

The Enchanted Formulary: Blending Magickal Oils for Love, Prosperity, and Healing
by Lady Maeve Rhea
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0806527048

Incense: Crafting and Use of Magickal Scents
by Carl F. Neal
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738703362

Magickal Formulary Spellbook Book 1
by Herman Slater
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0939708000

Magickal Formulary Spellbook: Book II
by Herman Slater
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0939708108


SPELLCASTING AND SPELLBOOKS
Crone's Book of Charms & Spells
by Valerie Worth
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1567188117

Crone's Book of Magical Words
by Valerie Worth
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1567188257

Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells
by Judika Illes
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0061711233

Everyday Magic: Spells & Rituals for Modern Living
by Dorothy Morrison
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1567184693

Pure Magic: A Complete Course in Spellcasting
by Judika Illes
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578633915
Utterly Wicked: Curses, Hexes & Other Unsavory Notions
by Dorothy Morrison
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0979453313
The Voodoo Hoodoo Spellbook
by Denise Alvarado
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578635136

The Voodoo Doll Spellbook: A Compendium of Ancient and Contemporary Spells and Rituals
by Denise Alvarado
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1578635543


THE ANCESTORS AND WORKING WITH THE DEAD
The Cauldron of Memory: Retrieving Ancestral Knowledge & Wisdom
by Raven Grimassi
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738715751

The Mighty Dead
by Christopher Penczak
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0982774370

Speak with the Dead: Seven Methods for Spirit Communication
by Konstantinos
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0738705225
The Witches' Book of the Dead
by Christian Day
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1578635063
_____
TAROT

78 Degrees of Wisdom
by Rachel Pollack
http://www.amazon.com/dp/157863408

When I started I was closeted too, but I didn't even have the courage to post anything so you're awesome!

I used this book alot when I got started. Its smaller so easier to hide, and I really liked how it taught me things that were inconspicuous.

https://www.amazon.com/Wiccapedia-Modern-Day-White-Witchs-Guide/dp/1454913746/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=wiccapedia&qid=1566538597&s=gateway&sr=8-1

If you can manage a bigger book this one is amazing!!! It walks you through exercises and educates about holidays and traditions. It gave me alot to go off of when creating my own spells.

https://www.amazon.com/Wicca-Year-Spiritual-Practice-Craft/dp/0738706213

Don't be afraid to trust your instincts and forge your own path. Blessed be!

You have a tiny fraction of the bases covered, but you're better off than many people. Some people only read Scott Cunningham's Wicca: A Guide and call it a day.

You really ought to learn of the history of religious witchcraft in the 20th century, the many layers of symbolism and tradition in Gardnerian and Alexandrian witchcraft of the 50s and 60s, then the spread and change of the newly arrived Pagan and witchcraft scene of the 70s and 80s in America, which leads to Dianic Wicca, Eclectic Wicca, and finally the form presented in Scott Cunningham's books and most, if not all books published in the past ten years (and continuously) by Llewellyn.

Drawing Down the Moon by Margot Adler: https://www.amazon.com/Drawing-Down-Moon-Witches-Goddess-Worshippers/dp/0143038192/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469827845&sr=8-1&keywords=drawing+down+the+moon

Then eventually learn of the history not of the religious traditions of witchcraft which have caught on by many, but the figure of the witch as a religious follower (as opposed to an evil baby-killer, a Halloween decoration, or something dreamed up in the minds of the Catholic church with no foundation in actual religion).

Aradia: Gospel of the Witches by Charles Leland: https://www.amazon.com/Aradia-Gospel-Witches-Charles-Godfrey/dp/0982432356/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828055&sr=8-1&keywords=aradia

Ecstasies: Deciphering the Witches' Sabbath by Carlo Ginzburg: https://www.amazon.com/Ecstasies-Deciphering-Witches-Carlo-Ginzburg/dp/0226296938/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828085&sr=8-4&keywords=carlo+ginzburg

The Witch Cult in Western Europe by Margaret Murray: https://www.amazon.com/Witch-Cult-Western-Europe/dp/1515244024/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828141&sr=8-2&keywords=witch+cult+western+europe

and then, in a timeline-fashion,

Witchcraft Today by Gerald Gardner: https://www.amazon.com/Witchcraft-Today-Gerald-Gardner/dp/0806525932/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828213&sr=8-1&keywords=witchcraft+today

Then learn how religious witchcraft, as presented by Gerald Gardner and his covens, was and is practiced, the meaning behind the practices, and why the meanings matter.

A Witches Bible by Janet and Stewart Farrar: https://www.amazon.com/Witches-Bible-Complete-Handbook/dp/0919345921/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828310&sr=8-1&keywords=witches+bible

Also inserted in this section might easily be Buckland's Book of Witchcraft, but I don't personally recommend that book as it does stray from Gardnerian tradition in many respects, sometimes changing whole chunks of traditional texts to a more Pagan or celtic format, and conveniently brushes over the use and symbolism of an important tool, the scourge, in witchcraft. But there are many good pieces of knowledge in that book.

Its also important to read up on influential figures in the Craft movement, and their thoughts, opinions, and reasonings behind their beliefs.

Firechild by Maxine Sanders: https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Child-Magic-Maxine-Sanders/dp/1869928784/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828518&sr=8-1&keywords=maxine+sanders

King of the Witches by June Johns: https://www.amazon.com/King-Witches-World-Alex-Sanders/dp/B000NT7OYI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1469828547&sr=8-1&keywords=king+witches+june

And there's so much more, probably more books than anyone could ever read and find all of.

And one of the best sources of knowledge of the Craft is an experienced High Priest(ess) within a coven that knows their stuff. Much of witchcraft's knowledge comes from its mysteries, which must be experienced to understand.

Good luck on your journey.

Merry Meet Riley. Many Wiccans are "recovering christians." It makes a lot of sense to those of us who have followed that path and made that journey. Many of us were raised in a christian family and eventually discovered that we didn't fit. The world is a lot older and deeper than Christian dogma.

I'm not really sure what you are asking for here. If you want a recommended book for someone following that path I might suggest reading Wicca: The Old Religion In the New Millennium by Vivianne Crowley. If you are looking for a web site to read, or for my personal advice I might suggest our own coven brochure page or our mythic history of the old ways page. Not every Wiccan agrees with everything we say but the site gets a lot of traffic.

In addition to reading things you can try to make contact with Wiccans in your local area. Our festival of Mabon is coming up in a couple of weeks and many communities have open celebrations where interested people can attend and begin learning. Finding other local Wiccans begins with a listing site called Witchvox that has local outreach listings sorted by location. Groups that list themselves on Witchvox are doing so to invite people like you, so don't hesitate to contact them and ask questions. Also Google for "Wicca, mytown" or "Pagan, mytown.). There is a site called Meetup that many groups use to schedule and publish local events for interested people.

I do wish you well. May the Lord and Lady guide your path.

...How exactly did you find out about this book?


I looked into it, and it looks like this is his first ever book, published just two days ago, and the only things I can find online about the author are an Instagram with less than fifty followers and a half-finished website. The guy doesn't even have a blog as far as I can see, so I'm surprised you were able to find the book among the hundreds of beginner witchcraft resources floating around on Kindle.


I'm not trying to be a jerk, but this seems suspiciously like a plug, and unless this guy has some seriously groundbreaking advice, $10 for a 52 page book is pretty pricey.


If it's not a plug, and you're looking for an affordable beginner book that's available for Kindle, I'd recommend either Grovedaughter Witchery ($8.99, 226 pages, non-denominational) or A Guide For The Solitary Practitioner ($10.99, 240 pages, slightly modified Wiccan).


Or heck, a lot of the basic beginner info can be found for free online! If you have any specific questions about different areas of witchcraft, there are lots of us who'd be willing to share our thoughts/experiences with you. :)

Living Theurgy is a pretty thorough book on the subject. And it's not $247 for a paperback.

Ars Theurgia Goetia has a different set of spirits from Ars Goetia, these being "aerial" and "one part good, one part evil." Calling spirits into objects is a very old practice and is much more diverse than just Theurgy. Often the object is a vessel of water or a clear crystal, and these traditions were the inspiration for the whole "genie in a bottle" thing. The Hygromanteia and the Almadel are good examples.

Here is a quality tomb regarding the landvaettir, and this book will help you in understanding house wights.

At the end of the day, it's about respect and discovering what works for you and yours. [UPG] Wights seem to be unique in their personalities, wants and desires. A lot like people are. Sometimes it can take some experimentation to find what works. At times, honoring some spirits can be a simple as leaving offerings of whole foods, or milk. Other wights seem to prefer something a little more formal. In either case, a regular routine seems to be about the only commonality. [/UPG] That's just my experience though. Your mileage may vary.

I consider myself both an Asatruar and a Wiccan. I'm one of those "Wiccatru" that are so frequently bitched about. I worship Freyr and Freyja in both Wiccan circles and in traditional Asatru style ritual.

I have a few suggestions for you.

First off, get Norse Magic and Herbal Healing - it's a book of spells, charms and herbs from 1500. Reading that can show you new ways to approach doing magic from a Norse perspective.

Another magic that is practiced among some heathens is low or folk magic, specifically Pennsylvania Dutch Powwow or Hoodoo. Hex and Spellwork is a good book on this topic.

Get closer to Freyja. She is the guardian of witches and wise women. Ask for her guidance. She will never steer you wrong.

Look harder. It's out there, it's just not so easy to find as it doesn't sell well to a more general market. Amazon is a better bet than local spirit stores, which tend to be very 'white light'.
Slightly off-topic for r/wicca, but you might find this interesting if your curiosity runs that sort of way. A fascinating read.

If you want something a little more poignant and less "fluffy" read anything by Ly de Angeles. She's very thorough and has more of a direct approach than many authors. She avoids the Wicca stuff (which many refer to as "fluffy bunny paganism") and just goes for the guts of it.

There's a very broad base of beliefs under the "pagan" umbrella and Wicca, though very popular these days, is only one facet of such. Try and vary your reading from Cunnigham to de Angeles to Crowley (even if he's not your thing, it adds to a broader perspective/understanding).

I've found that studying any religion or philosophy it's good to read from a broad base of sources. MockingDead also lists several other references for different styles.

I've never really read anything apart from this, and it's probably not what you expected when you wrote this post, but when I was looking into Wicca and Witchcraft, there was a book by Lys De Angeles (this one: looked it up for you just in case) and I'd only gotten through the first few exercises, but I managed to get myself in a trance doing them one night that felt like I kind of lost myself for a while and drifted away someplace. Not sure how long it lasted because I lost track of time, but I ended up unbalancing and falling over, snapping myself out of it (was on my bed, didn't get hurt) It was definitely some intense meditation there, kind of creepy, but VERY effective and I still use some of the techniques for calming my mind down when I get a little anxious in public. You could probably find some pages to download a sample ahem ahem instead of buying the book, because I'm not sure how useful it would be for your purpose past the first couple of chapters that go beyond clearing your mind and being able to visualize things in your head.

EDIT: spelling

This might help. And this and definitely this

Silver RavenWolf practices Pow-wow, folk magic originating in the culture of the Pennsylvania Dutch. Don't confuse the Pennsylvania Dutch with the Amish, since there are no Amish shamans. LOL. A Pennsylvania Dutch shaman would be a brauche or braucherei. This just goes to show how universal shamanism is since there is even a Pennsylvania Dutch form of shamanism.

Hex and Spellwork: The Magical Practices of the Pennsylvania Dutch

I've heard some good things about Grovedaughter Witchery. I know the author tried to make a book that was specifically non theistic, because they're hard to find.

If you're looking for a simple step by step guide to get you started in a non-overwhelming way, I recommend Wicca: A Year and a Day by Timothy Roderick It's the book I refer all my Wicca 101 students to, and is required reading in my coven. Its a year long workbook, that divides the basic knowledge Wiccans use out along a full 366 day time frame.

Living Theurgy

Also going to develop my own system of ancestor worship so will be reading a lot about that.

How deep do you want to go?

Here is the desktop version of your link