The Eight-Fold Path

The 'Eight-Fold Path' is recognised in many esoteric paths with certain variations. They constitute the many ways of raising energy that are incorporated into the ritual magic performed by a mage, and represent the eight-spoked wheel upon which Wicca turns.

MENTAL DISCIPLINE:

Powerful energies can be raised through the mind using meditation and trance. Visualisation can help apply the pure will of the mind over matter. By developing our mental ability we tap into energies that have always been available to us, though ones that we have not necessarily been aware of. Visualisation is one of the most important aspects of magickal work. Stimulating all five of the senses one can utilise the art of visualisation to raise energy and transform it to all manner of ends. Visualisations comes easier to some than others, but it is an art that all should endeavour to develop and practice regularly. Mental discipline is also gained through cleansing the body (including fasting over short periods) and physical discipline). Ritual knowledge is also a vital aspect of mental discipline. Knowledge helps provide the keys that we need to help get in touch with our higher selves and beyond, as wells as the knowledge and understanding we require in order to use enchantments, spells, symbols and charms.

THE POWER OF SPEECH:

Speech is used in ritual to help strengthen the visualisation and thus the power of ones will. Chants can help to focus the mind and raise energy in their own way by penetrating the veil between the worlds. When using speech during a ritual, speak clearly, with feeling and confidence.

THE CONTROLLED USE OF DRUGS:

The controlled use of drugs is something that seems to have played a part in most of the nature-based religions from all over the planet. Shamans from many cultures used hallucinogens to focus the mind and to aid the process of shape-shifting. Cannabis has also been used for centuries in magical work, as have several other natural substances readily available in the British Isles such as particular types of mushroom. Wine, beer, incense, essential oils and herbs also come into the realm of drugs (incenses also stimulate the olfactory glands in the nose). Some drugs are very potent, and if you do choose to experiment with them please do so with the utmost of caution.

DANCE:

Dance is another way of raising energy, particularly useful in a circle situation. There are many dances that have become associated with the particular rites within Wicca. Dances often start slowly and build up tempo to a crescendo. This is associated with raising the cone of power especially in full Circle work.

 

OFFERINGS TO THE GODS:

In the past many blood offerings were presented for the gods. This is not something that is generally advocated in modern spellcraft. Today it is more common to offer bread, wine, incense and crystals. Through offerings we are giving back something of value to the gods to thank them for what they have provided for us. Offerings more often consist of something that have personal value and are given as a form of sacrifice to show respect and to strengthen our connection with the goddesses and gods and nature spirits.

THE SCOURGE / PURIFICATION:

The scourge is used in some forms of Wicca to beat energy into an object or to purify an individual through mildly inflicted pain. Flagellation is a common form of ritual purification found in many cultures and religions. However, purification of the body IS important. One should cleanse ones body regularly. Salt is commonly used by magi for this purpose as is incense for purifying the aura. One should never enter a situation where one is working with the gods and spirits without having cleansed and purified oneself - it is a matter of respect for yourself and respect towards them.

SEX:

The sexual act of a man and a woman is regarded as the sacred merging of the two great powers of masculine and feminine. It can be a most powerful way of raising energy within a ritual situation when performed with reverence and focus. The sexual act stimulates energy to be raised from the base chakra to the crown. When this is done with partners of the opposite gender then (because their chakras work in harmony) then the energy raised is balanced between male and female as with the God and Goddess. It is entirely possible to raise energies in a similar way without sexual intercourse, for those who plenty of experience and are reasonably adept, but intercourse between a priestess and priest who both understand what is to be achieved can be a powerful magical act that helps both move towards adept hood. (hints at kundalini/chakra/energy)

PSYCHIC DEVELOPMENT:

Psychic development, dream control and other astral work is something that should develop through the training of a Wiccan if such abilities are not already developed before one begins. When working ritual magic, one is working between the worlds with the gods and spirits of the elemental planes, etc. It is therefore necessary to develop such skills if one is to become adept at working with such entities. Be aware that there are many illusions on the way as you may witness in those around you.