The Spells

A spoken or written formula intended to cause or influence a particular course of events. Closely related to other means to mind power such as creative visualization, positive thinking and positive imaging, all of which emphasize.

Identification with mental images.

A clear goal.

Repetition of intent to achieve this goal.

Projection of will.

Invocations of the aid of spirits, deities or supernatural force.

Spells may be

*Beneficial (a "blessing"); to heal, gain love, money, success, fertility, protection against evil spirits, weather control

*Harmful (hex or curse); directed against enemies to cause illness, destruction, loss of love, barrenness, failure, death

**Contemporary Wiccans includes a set of ethics that prohibit curses.

*Some accept "binding spells" - intended to prevent harm or disaster or stop a particular act. 

*To cast spells, wiccans raise power through a blend of visualization, meditation, identification, body movement, incantation (statement of goal), petition to deities, and projection of will. 

*Words, chants, songs, movements and use of objects (candles, effigies, cords, nail clippings) facilitate the process.

*Contemporary wiccans cast their spells within a magic circle.  They state their goal - or write it to strengthen the power of the will through positive thinking.

*Colored candles may be lit in preparation. A doll might be used as an effigy -object becomes the person - in a healing or love ritual. The doll may be marked with astrological signs or hair clippings from the person. 

*All in the group must agree on the goal and mental image and hold it firmly in their minds.

*Invite a Goddess, horned God or other higher forces to work with them.

*Hand clapping, drums, rattles and other instruments might be used to create rhythm.

*Written spells are available in books, but most wiccans "feel that words composed from the heart are best." The recitation of a chant or charm alone will not successfully cast a spell.

*While performing the ritual, the Wiccan focuses intense concentration in will in achieving the goal, visualizing it and believing it is already accomplished.