history – The Crafty Witch

Ostara

Posted on March 21, 2025March 21, 2025 by Lylac Moon

The Spring Equinox, or Ostara has clear Germanic roots coming from the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre, who was associated with dawn, fertility, and spring is celebrated by many. Ostara adopted into the Wiccan wheel of the year, marks a pivotal moment when day and night achieve perfect balance, signifying a harmonious equilibrium in nature. This event heralds the awakening of the earth from its quiet winter repose, as vibrant blossoms burst forth and daylight extends its reach, infusing the world with renewed vigour and life. Ostara is often honoured with ancient rituals that embrace themes of fertility, renewal, and the celebration of the burgeoning light. Traditional symbols such as eggs and hares are prominently featured, representing the concepts of rebirth and abundance.

During Ostara, individuals are encouraged to engage in personal reflection and to set intentions for the coming months. This period serves as an opportunity to contemplate one’s own growth and development, aligning personal goals with the natural rhythms of the earth. As communities come together, they collectively welcome the warmth and vitality of spring, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Celebrations of Ostara can vary widely, often incorporating elements such as the planting of seeds, decorating with flowers, or participating in group meditations and affirmations. Many choose to spend time outdoors, reconnecting with nature and enjoying the invigorating energy of the season. Feasts featuring seasonal produce and traditional foods, such as sweet breads, are common, symbolising the bounty and potential of the earth as it stirs to life.

As the days grow longer, Ostara invites us to embrace the potential for new beginnings, encouraging us to shed the old and welcome the new. It is a time to celebrate the cycles of life, recognising both the fragility and resilience of nature, and to find inspiration in the rejuvenating power of spring.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the spring equinox, also known as the vernal equinox, signifies the start of spring and carries a rich cultural and astronomical significance. The term “vernal” is derived from the Latin word “vernalis,” meaning “relating to or occurring in spring.” This astronomical event typically takes place on either the 20th or 21st of March each year. It marks the precise moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator as it moves northwards, resulting in day and night being nearly equal in length across the globe.

The vernal equinox has been observed and celebrated across various cultures throughout history. It represents not only the beginning of spring but also a time of renewal and rejuvenation, as the natural world begins to awaken after the dormancy of winter. Many ancient civilisations, including the Egyptians, Mayans, and Persians, recognised the equinox as a pivotal moment in the calendar, often aligning their agricultural and religious rituals with this celestial event.

In addition to its scientific importance, the vernal equinox has inspired numerous cultural celebrations and festivals. For instance, the ancient Persians celebrated Nowruz, the Persian New Year, around the time of the equinox, marking the occasion with feasts, music, and communal gatherings. Similarly, in many parts of the world today, people continue to observe the equinox with various customs and rituals, recognising it as a time of balance, new beginnings, and the flourishing of life.

The equinox is also seen as a time of introspection and balance, encouraging individuals to reflect on their own lives, set new goals, and embrace the changes that come with a new season. As such, the vernal equinox not only heralds the changing of the seasons but also inspires people worldwide to welcome a time of growth, harmony, and transformation.

Spring equinox rituals hold a special place in various cultures, marking the transition from winter to spring and celebrating the rebirth of nature. Across the globe, these rituals are steeped in tradition and symbolism, resonating with the themes of renewal, growth, and awakening.

Waking at sunrise is a beautiful and spiritual tradition observed by many. This practice allows participants to greet the sun and acknowledge the increasing daylight, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness. It is a moment of reflection and gratitude for the warmth and vitality that the sun brings, encouraging a sense of personal renewal and positivity.

Engaging with nature through planting seeds or gardening is a common practice during the equinox. This act is a powerful symbol of new beginnings and growth, as people prepare their gardens for the warmer months ahead. Gardening not only nurtures the earth but also nurtures the spirit, fostering a connection with the natural cycle of life and encouraging mindfulness.

Playful activities such as egg races, egg hunts, egg eating, and egg painting evoke themes of fertility and renewal. Eggs, representing new life, become a focal point of these celebrations. These activities add a layer of lightheartedness and joy, engaging participants of all ages in traditions that honour the life-giving forces of nature.

A fun and symbolic element of these celebrations is the choosing of a man and a woman to act out the roles of Spring God and Goddess. These roles embody the spirit of the season, bringing an air of festivity and mysticism to the event. This tradition, rich in imagery and symbolism, serves to celebrate not only the season’s renewal but also the enduring human connection to the earth and its cycles.

Community gatherings often feature bonfires, serving as both practical and symbolic elements. Around these fires, people gather to share stories, rekindle connections, and bask in the warmth and light. The bonfire symbolises unity, igniting the spirit of community and cooperation as individuals share in the collective joy of the season. Bonfires are a traditional part of celebrating the spring equinox, particularly in Celtic and some other traditions. They represent the return of light and warmth after the winter months and ward off evil spirits.

In Celtic and Pictish cultures, bonfires were lit on the spring equinox to honour the sun and invoke its warmth and vitality. They were also believed to purify the land for the upcoming growing season. People would gather around the fires, dancing, singing, and offering prayers for prosperity and growth. The practice of lighting bonfires on the spring equinox is also found in other traditions, such as some Slavic traditions, where bonfires were lit to celebrate the arrival of spring.

The bonfire stands as a powerful symbol of rebirth, renewal, and the return of light and warmth. It serves as a way to celebrate the arrival of spring and the promise of new life. Even today, some individuals continue to light bonfires or engage in fire-related rituals to mark the spring equinox, often as a means of connecting with nature and celebrating the changing of the seasons.

The Christian holiday of Easter is thought by some academics to have originated from the pagan spring festival of Ostara, which is believed to be directly connected to Eostre, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of spring and dawn, and her profound connection to the spring equinox.

Easter, a celebration that marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, is observed by Christians worldwide with various traditions and customs. The date of Easter Sunday is calculated as the first Sunday after the full moon following the vernal equinox, which aligns closely with the timing of the ancient pagan festival of Ostara. This time of year symbolises rebirth and renewal, themes that are prevalent in both the Christian and pagan celebrations.

The figure of Eostre is often depicted as a goddess of fertility, growth, and new beginnings, traits that are mirrored in the symbols commonly associated with Easter, such as eggs and rabbits. Eggs, in particular, are seen as emblems of new life and have been used in pagan rituals long before becoming an Easter staple.

The blending of these pagan traditions with Christian beliefs may have been a strategy to make Christianity more appealing to converts by incorporating familiar elements into its celebrations. As a result, many of the customs associated with Easter, such as the Easter egg hunt and the Easter bunny, have roots in these pre-Christian traditions.

Over time, Easter has evolved and assimilated various cultural practices, leading to a diverse range of observances across different communities. While the religious significance of Easter remains central to Christian worship, its historical ties to ancient pagan festivals continue to influence its contemporary celebration, or does it?

Bede’s Account:

The 8th-century scholar Bede stands as the sole historical source that mentions Eostre. In this account, Bede provides valuable insights into ancient feasts held in her honour. Historians and folklorists engage in ongoing debates regarding the existence of Eostre. Some scholars propose that she may have been a revered deity among the Anglo-Saxons, while others question the accuracy of Bede’s account, suggesting it might have been a speculative interpretation.

In addition, ill leave you with this quote from Roger Pearce (2024) “This means that – unsurprisingly – the word “Easter” comes from “Eosturmonath”, not directly from “Eostre”. According to Bede, the name Eostre gave rise to the season Eosturmonth (April) which in turn was used by the Christian English to mean the Christian festival of pasch. So “Easter” is merely a worn down form of Eosturmonath.”

Reference

https://www.roger-pearse.com/weblog/2024/03/25/easter-a-translation-error-in-bede-de-ratione-temporum/

Folk Magic

Witch bottles

Posted on March 16, 2025 by Lylac Moon

Protection or witchcraft? One of the most known protection aids our ancestors used to protect their homes is the witch bottle, a fascinating artefact steeped in folklore and mystery. Believed to be crafted by knowledgeable individuals of that era, or cunning folk, these bottles were filled with various ingredients, intended to capture and bind malevolent spirits or curses threatening a household. But isn’t this practice paradoxically a form of witchcraft aimed at warding off other witchcraft? This intriguing question invites a deeper exploration into the historical context, societal beliefs, and the fine line between protection and the dark arts, revealing the complexities of human intuition and the lengths to which people have gone to safeguard their sanctuaries from unseen evils.

The witch bottle contained a variety of things such as nails, pins, broken glass, hair, and even urine, which thought to hold significant meaning or power, buried outside the front door or within the walls of the home.

The witch bottles brought protection from forces such as a spell or curse, the witches familiar terrorising their property, a witch in spirit form, or a mix of these. However, the biggest fear was the witch herself who was believed to be able to slip through gaps in doors, keyholes, open windows etc.

The way it was believed to work was that the witch would be attracted to the urine due to its potent and unique properties, mistaking it for the intended recipient of their wrath. This profound misunderstanding would lead the witch to become ensnared in the prepared bottle, where she would remain trapped, a victim of her own misdirection. It was thought that the very essence of the person’s life force, contained within the urine, would create a magnetic pull, drawing the witch towards it, ultimately sealing her fate.

So were our ancestors using the knowledge and wares of the cunning folk to protect themselves from perceived evil of witches. It would appear so, as throughout history, various cultures have developed elaborate rituals and protective measures, often invoking spiritual entities or crafting talismans, thereby demonstrating humanity’s longstanding fear of malevolent forces that could disrupt the harmony of daily life. As we analyse these practices, we uncover a fascinating tapestry of folklore and magic that has evolved over centuries, illustrating how the desire for security intertwines with the very essence of belief in the supernatural. Ultimately, this blend of tradition and fear begs the question: are these protective acts merely pragmatic responses to the unknown, or do they reflect a deeper, more intrinsic connection to the mystical realms beyond our understanding?

Tell me what do you do to protect yourself or home, for example do you hang up a horse shoe over your front door? Or knock on wood for good luck? Join me next time when I look at some of these ‘old wive’s tales, their origin and other home protect spells and charms.

Folk Magic

A Brief History of a British Witch

Posted on February 25, 2025March 14, 2025 by Lylac Moon

Wise men and women, known as Cunning Folk have been around for centuries. The actual term Witch, many say, was a Christian construct invented to describe older women who may have lived on their own, usually doing good for the people in their communities. However, the church feared their popularity and so invented stories of witches flying, being in partnership with the devil and doing evil deeds. In the reign of Elizabeth I they were seen as a threat to the established order, as fear of the unknown began to overshadow the respect they had once commanded. The rise of superstition and paranoia in society painted these figures in a negative light, associating them with malevolent practices. The first person known to be hung for witchcraft in modern times was Agnes Waterhouse at Chelmsford in 1566, marking a grim shift in public perception and legal repercussions for those accused of witchcraft. The last was Alice Molland at Exeter in 1684, a poignant reminder of the tragic consequences of hysteria and the persecution of individuals who were often only trying to help their communities. This dark chapter in history serves as a testament to how fear can transform admiration into suspicion and violence, forever altering the fate of countless wise individuals throughout the years.

However, witches have been mentioned much earlier than the 15th Century, according to Professor Diane Purkiss for English Heritage. She notes “that in Homer’s Odyssey (c.800 BC), Circe – who famously turns men into animals – is described as a witch,” a powerful figure wielding magic that can alter the very essence of life. Furthermore, “Plutarch refers to witchcraft in his treatise On Superstition (c.AD 100)”, providing historical context that highlights the long-standing fascination and fear surrounding these mystical practitioners. In fact, Purkiss elaborates that magic features in Roman law statutes, some of which were significantly influential and subsequently passed down to the Christian world, intertwining notions of the supernatural with legal frameworks. These early laws reflect a complex relationship between society and the practice of magic; however, it is essential to note that many of those early laws were really laws against sorcery.

In England, witch trials were conducted from the 15th century until the 18th century, a time marked by superstition and fear of the unknown. They are estimated to have resulted in the death of perhaps 500 people, 90 percent of whom were women, many of whom were falsely accused and subjected to brutal interrogations. The accused were often seen as pariahs in their communities, leading to social and familial ostracism. The witch hunt was at its most intense stage during the English Civil War, as political turmoil and societal unrest created a perfect storm for paranoia to flourish. Amidst this chaos, many individuals were scapegoated, and the fervour of the trials reflected the underlying anxieties of a society grappling with deep-seated fears and the quest for power.

The Pendle Witches

One of the most famous witch trials in Britain was that of the Pendle Witches of Lancashire in 1612, which concluded with the execution of 10 women and men from two families: the Demdike’s and the Chattox’s. This notorious trial has become infamous not only for the tragic fates that befell those accused but also for the socio-political context in which it occurred. Many of the allegations resulted from accusations that members of the families made against each other, perhaps because they were in competition for social standing and resources in a time when fear of witchcraft was rampant. Tensions within the community were exacerbated by economic struggles and personal grievances, leading to a climate of mistrust that ultimately facilitated these dire accusations. Furthermore, the Pendle trial reflected broader societal fears about the supernatural and the perceived threat posed by individuals, particularly women, who diverged from the norms of their time.

Yet it wasn’t just the notorious Pendle witches who were persecuted; there were many others, including prominent figures such as Molly Leigh of Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, who was known for her mysterious practices that made her both feared and revered within her community. Mother Shipton of Knaresborough, Yorkshire, was another notable name, famous not only for her prophecies but also for her unconventional lifestyle that placed her at odds with societal norms. Granny Boswell and Thomasine Blight from Cornwall each had their own stories intricately woven into the fabric of local folklore. Bessie Dunlop, known as The Witch of Dalry in North Ayrshire, was also part of this grim narrative that enveloped those accused during this tumultuous period. Meg Shelton from Fylde, Lancashire, and Joan Wytte of Bodmin, Cornwall, similarly drew attention, with their fates intertwined with the superstitions and fears of the time. Sybil Leek of Normacot, Staffordshire, gained notoriety for her alleged witchcraft as well, emphasizing the widespread fear of the supernatural.

However, it was Isabel Gowdie of Auldearn, Nairnshire, who stood out in particular due to her detailed confessions. She was a young housewife supposedly taken without the use of torture, which cast a shadow of intrigue upon her case. In her chilling confessions, she claimed to have been in league with the Devil for fifteen long years, revealing a world filled with dark pacts and sinister rituals. She also mentioned knowing Elphame, Queen of the Faeries, hinting at the complex interplay between folklore, witchcraft, and the human desire to understand the mystical forces believed to influence their lives. These stories reflect not only the individual tragedies of these women but also a broader societal fear that led to one of history’s most infamous witch hunts.

These poor wretches were not even given decent burials, either being dumped into pits at the foot of the gallows or at crossroads, an old Anglo Saxon practice, in unconsecrated ground, where the earth remained unblessed and the souls of the deceased were left to wander aimlessly. This cruel fate signified a profound disrespect for their humanity, as if society sought to erase their very existence alongside the stigma of their charges. However, amidst this grim reality, the Pendle witches were buried in a graveyard on Pendle Hill, a location that, while still echoing with the memories of their trials, offered them a semblance of dignity in death, surrounded by the picturesque landscape that now serves as a reminder of their tragic stories and the dark times they endured.

The law in the UK regarding witchcraft significantly changed in 1735 with the passing of the Witchcraft Act, which effectively decriminalised witchcraft and made it illegal to claim magical powers, essentially ending witch trials in Great Britain. This historical shift marked a pivotal moment in the legal treatment of individuals accused of witchcraft, as the previous laws had led to widespread persecution and the execution of many innocent people based on dubious claims and societal fears.

Thanks for reading I know Its a long one. Look out for part 2

The Modern Witch – Witchcraft today is a fascinating and evolving practice that intertwines ancient traditions with contemporary beliefs.

IN General

What Kind of Witch are you?

Posted on February 22, 2025March 14, 2025 by Lylac Moon

Do you ever wonder if you fit into a Witch kind of category? Perhaps you find yourself resonating with the earthy practices of a green-witch who draws inspiration from nature, or maybe the wise, intuitive ways of a hedge-witch whose work blurs the boundaries between the physical and spiritual realms. On the other hand, you might just do your own thing and not worry about fitting into any specific mold, embracing a more eclectic approach to your craft.

lets explore!

So I did a search and was pleasantly surprised at the multitude of results that appeared on the screen! It dawned on me just how overwhelming the information can be, especially when so many sources offer differing perspectives. No wonder it can be confusing! In another search, it suggested 45 different witches, each with their own unique characteristics, histories, and roles in various cultures, leaving me both fascinated and somewhat bewildered at the sheer variety of interpretations and representations of witchcraft throughout time and across the globe.

I decided I couldn’t possibly discuss here every type, as that would take far too long and would overwhelm you with information, so I thought I’d look in more depth at some specific types that resonate with me personally and have had a significant impact on my life experiences. By focusing on these particular types, I hope to provide a more meaningful exploration that can shed light on why they stand out and what unique insights they offer.

The Green Witch

A green witch is someone who practices witchcraft that’s centered on nature, drawing inspiration from the earth and its cycles. They are often herbalists, naturalists, and healers, knowledgeable in the properties of various plants and the secrets of the natural world. Green witches believe that the natural world is alive and full of magical energy, viewing each tree, stone, and creature as imbued with its own spirit and purpose. They work in harmony with nature, cultivating their gardens and foraging for wild herbs, while striving to achieve balance and well-being in both their lives and the environment around them. By honoring the elements, seasons, and lunar phases, they create rituals that not only connect them to the earth but also enhance their spiritual practice, fostering a deeper understanding of their place within the web of life.

A Folk Witch

A “folk witch” is a practitioner of folk magic, which means they use magical practices rooted in the local folklore and traditions of their region, often incorporating plants, animals, and spirits native to their area, and usually passed down through family or community knowledge; essentially, a witch who draws on the “folk magic” of their local culture and environment. These practitioners often engage in rituals and spellwork that reflect the beliefs and customs specific to their community, utilizing everyday materials found in nature, such as herbs for medicinal purposes or natural elements like stones and water for their symbolic meanings. The spiritual practices of a folk witch can vary widely from one region to another and may include elements of divination, healing, and protection, all deeply intertwined with the history and narratives of the people they serve. Through storytelling, shared experiences, and the transmission of age-old wisdom, folk witches play a crucial role in preserving and honoring the cultural heritage of their communities, ensuring that ancient traditions are kept alive for future generations to learn from and cherish.

A Chaos Witch

A “chaos witch” is a practitioner of witchcraft who actively incorporates the principles of “chaos magic,” meaning they prioritize personal experimentation, flexible belief systems, and creating their own unique magical practices rather than adhering to strict traditional magical rules or established deities. This approach allows chaos witches to explore various methodologies, enabling them to learn from a vast array of magical traditions, philosophies, and rituals. Often drawing from a diverse range of sources, including ancestral wisdom, contemporary spiritual practices, and even pop culture, they adapt and modify elements to suit their own intentions and desires, constantly evolving their craft. Embracing the unpredictable nature of chaos, they understand that this fluidity can lead to unexpected and transformative outcomes, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in their quest for personal empowerment and fulfillment. Ultimately, chaos witches thrive in the realm of possibility, crafting their own magical journeys with creativity and an open mind.

Conclusion

The things that unite witches are far greater than those that separate them. It doesn’t seem to matter which type of witch you identify with because it’s personal to the individual; the essence of witchcraft transcends specific paths and traditions, embracing a rich tapestry of shared experiences, beliefs, and rituals. This profound connection manifests in the way witches support one another, celebrate their unique gifts, and collaborate to create a more harmonious existence. Whether one practices a particular form of magic, follows a specific belief system, or engages in traditionally feminine arts, the bond formed through mutual respect and understanding is what truly defines the witching community. In this way, every witch, regardless of their unique practices, contributes to a collective strength that fosters growth, acceptance, and empowerment.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this fascinating subject, as it opens up a myriad of possibilities and discussions that are both engaging and insightful. Before I sign off, I encourage you to take a moment to look out for these related posts that delve deeper into various aspects, providing more context and depth to what we’ve talked about, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the topic at hand.