*          Magical Ethics

Living a magical life is a powerful and positive way to live. However, it
does come with a great deal of responsibility. If you are already following
a magical path, you know what I mean. But, if you are just beginning to
think about bringing magic into your life, you must understand that there is
a moral code of spiritual ethics to follow if you wish your magical journey
to be positive.

Whatever area of magic you are interested in, you will find that your
magical work will not only affect you, but also those around you. Some of
you may be interested in the Wiccan tradition or perhaps in various forms of
divination. No matter where your magical interests and abilities may lead
you, learning the ancient Wiccan Code will serve you well as you travel the
path of positive magic. It consists of only eight words: "If it harms none,
do what you will." This creed should be at the core of any magical work you
do, even if you aren't Wiccan.

Over the years I've developed a more extended set of magical ethical
principles. I hope they aid you in your practice:

*Never speak a charm or spell in a language you don't understand.

*Never perform any form of revenge magic; karma will even things out.

*Never let anyone coerce you into joining a magical group you don't feel
comfortable about.

*Never let anyone force you to do any type of divination when you're tired
or just don't feel like it.

*Never perform a spell to help someone when they haven't asked you. This is
a form of manipulation.

*Don't brag about your magic--besides being rude, blabbing about your magic
weakens it.

*Never use magic to harm a person, animal, or plant.

*During a love spell never mention a specific person.

*Do give thanks when a spell has brought your desire into your life.

*When people ask you to perform any type of divination, don't let them
become too dependent on you.

In general, negative magic has no place in the life of a true magical
practitioner. To further understand this, may I suggest you read Raymond
Buckland's "Complete Book of Witchcraft." Also, any book by the late Scott
Cunningham will give you solid advice on practicing positive magic.

What you do in magic will come back to you. Positive magic will bring you
unexpected blessings, while negative magic will eventually harm the
practitioner. Of course, there are times when negative magic can be used in
a positive manner, such as trying to destroy a bad habit. Not all negative
magic is evil; what's important in most cases is intent. People sometimes
ask if they can use revenge magic when someone is trying to hurt them. The
answer is still "no." It is better in this case to use a spell for
protection, or even a blessing. Concentrate on positive magic to heal any
hurts, and get on with your life.

The one area of magic which gets people into lots of trouble is love magic.
If you're trying to attract love, you may perform a ritual to bring the type
of person you desire to you. However, never name a specific person, as this
violates a person's free will and may have negative results.

As you journey along the magical road, you will come into contact with
people who don't agree with your spiritual path. That is their right. Let
them go in peace and never try to force your ideas on them. It is also your
right to follow your own way.

Following a code of positive magical ethics will keep you spiritually
healthy and will serve you well in all areas of your life. Your positive
magic will come back to you threefold.

by Jim Weaver,
copyright 2002*