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Sabbat: Sabbat is a term for the eight seasonal festivals of the Wiccan year.
The sabbats comprise what Witches/Wiccans call the Wheel of the Year. This wheel is based largely upon the ancient solar rites of pre-Christian European tradition. Because the Old Religion was a fertility cult, in ancient times the traditional rituals of Wicca were designed to incorporate the waxing and waning periods of Nature. These periods are marked by each solstice and equinox and the cross-quarters that fall between each one. Sabbats and Esbats: Regular rituals found in Wicca, Witchcraft and Paganism. Sabbats are solar rituals and are associated with the cycles of the sun. Esbats are rituals that take place at each full moon. Also See: Sabbat, Esbat Sagittarius: The best quality of Sagittarius is loyalty. This is true for Sun sign Sagittarians, and also for people with other planets in this sign, although with other planets, the loyalty may extend only to matters concerning that planet. The worst quality is indiscriminate game-playing. A key phrase is "I aspire." The Sagittarius personality is generous, ambitious and loyal. Self-reliant, Sagittarians can go off on world travels alone without a qualm, and tend to throw youselves into life with the same energy you would pack for such a trip. You can make effective decisions, and therefore are often found in executive positions. You reveal your enthusiasm and positive attitude toward life. You like to travel mentally as well. You can study subjects deeply, and enjoy philosophical conversations. You tend to be somewhat conservative, as you would expect for your time of year - it is the conservative harvesting of summer's bounty that feeds us in December, after all. Once you understand the theory of a subject, you are able to take effective action in the practical realm. The Sagittarius temperament is outspoken and frank. In fact, sometimes you may wish you could restrain your speech. Still, you are usually open-minded, able to listen to what others have to say. You tend to hold to your own opinions tenaciously, yet you are able to change your minds when a suitable argument is presented. Generally able to make quick decisions, you can be too hasty at times. Sagittarius is usually proper in demeanor. You can give or take orders, and thus are solid companions, able to share leadership cheerfully. When you engage in sports, you learnt he rules and abide by you, just as you respect the rules in all areas of life. Your understanding can come across as magnanimous at times, and at other times you seem self-righteous. You aspire to lofty heights and may be disappointed if others do not attain the same level. You seek to comprehend, both on an interior basis and on a practical level, and once you understand the dynamics of a situation, you cheerfully accept your proper role. Sagittarius: The Adventurer Key Phrase: I UNDERSTAND Sagittarius is the optimistic quality which inspires us to have faith in ourselves and our futures. As the Mutable Fire sign of the zodiac, Sagittarius expresses the ability to maintain an open mind. Philosophical and tolerant of differences, Sagittarius can show great wisdom, and through the energy of Jupiter, its planetary ruler, is stimulated to reach toward broader horizons. Yet it can also be tactless, blunt, and even condescending. Sagittarius must have an opinion about everything - in a pinch, it will generate one on the spot. Sagittarius looks for adventurous and philanthropic opportunities; when carried to the extreme, it can become overly zealous and gluttonous. Symbolized by the Archer, Sagittarius is always looking upward and forward, and may sometimes gallivant into the sunset leaving others behind. Where you find Sagittarius in your chart, there is a need to expand and to develop tolerance. Saille: The fourth letter of the Ogham tree alphabet, representing the letter S and meaning "willow." Saille represents the subconscious, feminine, and mystical side of our natures.... Saille relates to intuition, creativity, and imagination. Also See: Sail Salamanders: Salamanders are elemental spirits of Fire. (See Elementals) Salamanders: salamander [ME salamandre, F salamandre, L salamandra Gr. salamandra; cf. Per. samander, samandel.] In the theory of Paracelsus, a being inhabiting the element fire. Salud: Health" in Spanish. There are many ways for achieving good health, including those that use drugs and surgery as well as natural or spiritual means including herbal remedies acupuncture, etc. Also See: Health and Healing samana: Sanskrit for "breath," prana refers to the universal energy that flows through the body's web of non-physical channels known as nadis, the three most famous being the Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna. Different breathing patterns known as pranayamas can increase and direct this energy, leading to the simplification that prana and air are the same or that prana is in the air. In the traditional system, there are five different forms of prana: Prana: Moves inward. Governs all types of consumption: eating, drinking, breathing, sensory impressions. Apana: Moves away: Governs excretion or all sorts, as well as reproduction. Udana: Moves upward. Governs growth and development, as well as enthusiasm, speech, and the ability to stand. Samana: Balances from the edge to the center through churning and discerning. It is the "digestion" energy that aids the lungs in "digesting" air, the gastrointestinal system in digesting food, and the mind in "digesting" sensory input and ideas. Vyana: Moves outward from the center to the edge. Governs circulation of blood and the oxygen, hydration, and nutrition found in the blood. Aids in the "circulation" of ideas. Also See: prana Samekh: The fifteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, S. Represents the number 60. The ninth of the twelve "single letters." A Hebrew word meaning "prop" or "support." Corresponds to Sagittarius, the 25th Path (between Tiphareth and Yesod), and Tarot trump XIV Temperance. Samhain: October 31 Expect the unexpected if you celebrate Samhain--the Celtic New Year--on All Hallows Eve... Also See: Hallowmas Samhain: October 31. Also called Hallowee, Hallowe'en, and All Hallows Eve. This holiday is widely celebrated by people of all faiths with costume parties and trick-or-treating. But this night also marks the Wiccan new year. In the wheel of the year, Samhain is the night when the God dies and leaves the Goddess alone until Yule, when he is born again. Halloween/Samhain is a time when the doors between the words are said to open, stirring up much ghostly and otherworldly activity. Also See: Hallowmas Satan: Hebrew for "accuser." In Jewish tradition, you do not find the word by itself; rather it has the letter for the sound "ha" (meaning the article "the") before it, clearly indicating that the name represents a position rather than a particular entity. "The Satan" could not do anything by itself, and is more like what would today be called a "devil's advocate." In Christian theology, Satan became a specific entity, the representation of and cause of all that was bad, and the foe of God. Thus Christian theology became more dualistic in having a God of good (Jesus) and a God of evil (Satan) fighting over humans. This is closer to the concepts found in Gnosticism and Zoroastrianism. Satanism: The worship of Satan. Although there is very little evidence of the existence of Satanism prior to the 17th century, many were accused of it and died because of the accusation. Actual Satanism developed in response to the repressiveness of Christian authorities and frequently simply reversed Christian practices and symbolism with such things as reciting the Lord's Prayer backwards or spitting on the holy symbol of Christianity, the cross or Crucifix. In 1966, Anton LaVey founded the Church of Satan to practice his form of Satanism that did not worship Satan at all. Rather, it promotes a philosophy of extreme individualism and can be compared to Objectivism, libertarianism, and Nietzscheism. There are also some other groups practicing Satanism of this kind, the most notable being the Temple of Set. There are some smaller groups based on the writings of devout Christians (criticizing supposed Satanists), the writings of LaVey, novels, comic books, and even fictional movies. In the late decades of the 20th century, some Christians started seeing "satanic abuse" everywhere, resulting in expensive legal cases, the destruction of families, and the ruination of many lives. Saturn: Where Jupiter showed process, Saturn shows structure. Saturn is the ruler of Capricorn. Its placement and aspects indicate how structure is perceived either as limitation and restriction that keep you from pursuing your desires or as a container in which you can lead an orderly and productive life. On the whole structure is a good thing. The structure of bones allows us to move about and stand erect. Our skin provides a container without which we would surely die. It is how we perceive the container and what we do with it that makes all the difference. As Saturn moves through the signs, its cycle defines major life changes. Around age seven you develop a new sense of personal responsibility, at about 15 you become a young adult, able to use abstract thinking in your decision-making process. At age 21 you become an adult in the eyes of the law, and around age 28 to 30 you experience your first Saturn return (It takes Saturn 28 to 30 years to go through all of the signs one time), and you undergo a shift from an extended growth period into an extended productive period. This structure is more or less the same for everyone. The sign and house placement of Saturn indicate how you can best pursue your career, whatever that career may be. Should you start out owning your own company Leo style, or should you undertake humanitarian goals Aquarius style? By following Saturn's indicators you can plan a career course that allows a steady development. Saturn provides a barometer for you in the form of feedback. Sometimes you feel limited in what you can do, and you can use this as feedback about what educational opportunity to pursue. Sometimes you are afraid of the next step, and you can use this fear to show you where to seek emotional support. You will experience authority and responsibility in your life in constructive or destructive ways, based on where Saturn is found. Saturn can become your inner teacher and guide, as well as a timer for major changes throughout your life. Scorpio: The best quality of Scorpio is resourcefulness. The worst quality is the ability to cause trouble. A key phrase is "I desire." Intensity is the principal personality trait of Scorpio. Whatever career or vocational interests you pursue, you do it with tremendous force. The strength of desire is seen in every serious effort a Scorpio makes. You are proud, and can become the nemesis of anyone who insults you. The Scorpio mental process is meditative. You can take a set of data and ponder it, penetrating the surface evidence to find the deeper meaning. You can cope with difficult and disagreeable tasks because you understand that such tasks will eventually be completed and you will return to the center of your life's current none the worse for the effort, and perhaps stronger for the experience of surviving under pressure. Secretive and intense, Scorpio's temperament is sometimes difficult to tolerate. These very qualities, however, are part of the magnetism that draws people to you. The intensity can be expressed through healing or destructive energy, and only the Scorpio can determine which way you will go. Probably no sign indicates a stronger will. Personal experience teaches the Scorpio how to direct that will. Scorpios often are rather reserved. You are unyielding to the sorts of pressure that work well with other signs, and often do well in careers where independent action is encouraged. Your ability to focus on a single task and put all your energy into it is often seem as skillful. You are often respected for your determination, but perhaps not loved, as you are not manipulators of gentle energies. No one can exert the pressure that Scorpio can. You make devoted friends who will tell the truth boldly. When you lie, the lies are equally bold, and it may not be possible to tell the difference. The trained Scorpio mind seldom has to resort to a lie, as the truth is seen as a much stronger weapon. Desire lies at the root of all Scorpio action. Scorpio: The Catalyst Key Phrase: I CREATE Scorpio is passionate. As the Fixed Water sign of the zodiac, it illustrates the qualities of strong and abiding attachment. Ruled by Pluto, Scorpio serves to bring healing and transformation. Despite an often cool, calm exterior, it senses everything and misses nothing. Symbolized by the Scorpion and Eagle, Scorpio represents powers of destruction and regeneration. Scorpio is erotic, sensual, and incisive, but can be an extremist and unrelentingly vengeful. Scorpio explores and investigates until the core is exposed, often displaying exceptional research abilities. But there can also be an obsessive quality with Scorpio, and repressing emotions or holding onto pain are difficulties that can arise with this sign. Yet Scorpio has direct access to the energy necessary for birth and rejuvenation. Where you find Scorpio in your chart, there is intensity and strong feeling. Scry: To predict the future by gazing at or into an object such as a crystal ball or pool of water. Séance: A type of ritual where a group of people known as "sitters" get together with a person (the "medium") who has powers to communicate with non-physical entities for the purpose of communicating with spirits, usually of the dead. Also known in some areas as a "sitting" or a "circle." Although there is a long history of this sort of activity, it became popular in the West in the mid-19th century as part of a religion known as Spiritualism or Spiritism. Many occultists of the period were involved with this movement, and some occult groups looked askance at it. Two fake spiritualists, Mr. and Mrs. "Horos," tricked the head of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, into believing in them, and this episode ended up making the Golden Dawn public in an embarrassing way. After the massive deaths of WWI and the flu epidemic that followed, the desire to contact the dead achieved a fever pitch. Many scientists in other fields were involved, as was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and possibly Abraham Lincoln. Whenever such an interest grows, there are people who take advantage of it, and the history of séances and Spiritualism, unfortunately, has many darker and fraudulent markers. When the famous magician Houdini needed to put some fire under his flagging career, he started exposing fake mediums, a practice some conjurors continue to this day. Spiritualism and the séance are still practiced today, albeit in smaller numbers. Many of the practices were absorbed into New Thought, the New Age movement, and various occult traditions and orders. Also See: Seance Seidr: Meaning literally seething. Seidr is the name of a variety of magical and shamanic practices such as sorcery and divination and "soul journeys."
Self-Help: The practice of
techniques that bring mental, spiritual, physical, and especially psychological balance and healing. For thousands of years, there has been a
movement toward getting the assistance of experts when trying to achieve such balance and healing. Unfortunately, this has sometimes become time
consuming and extremely expensive. Over the last several decades there has been a growing movement that assumes if we simply learn the techniques,
we can help ourselves achieve wholeness. Numerous books and workshops help people learn the skills necessary to allow them to help themselves.
Self-Hypnosis: Self-hypnosis is a self-induced altered state of mental consciousness that allows you to give constructive suggestions directly to your subconscious mind. Semisextile: (30 degrees)--Planets that are exactly one sign apart on the zodiac. Indicates growth; can be uncomfortable. Semisquare: (45 degrees)--Planets exactly one and one-half signs apart in the zodiac indicate internal tension and stress. Sepher Yetzirah: The Book of Formation. A brief Kabalistic book that supposedly dates to the second century C.E. or earlier. Although not printed until the middle of the sixteenth century, it is mentioned in many earlier sources. It does not have many of the later concepts of the Kabalah. Instead, it is limited to the ten Sephiroth (although not described as a tree), the powers of the Hebrew alphabet (although not described as being paths that connect the Sephiroth) and how God controls the universe through the transposition of His four-letter name, the Tetragrammaton, Yud-Heh-Vahv-Heh. Sometimes the title is incorrectly translated as The Book of Creation. Occasionally has other works attached to it including The Fifty Gates of Intelligence and the better-known Thirty-Two Paths of Wisdom. The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn uses the Sepher Yetzira in its teachings. Sephiroth: Cabalism, at least in the Western occult tradition, is built around a diagram called the Tree of Life. This diagram contains ten circles representing the Sephiroth (singular: Sephirah); that is, the "spheres," "numbers," or "emanations." The Sephiroth are the numbers 1 through 10 considered in their archetypal sense. Each Sephirah is an archetypal idea. Also, the Sephiroth represent emanations from God and describe the process of creation. In the material world, they represent the heavenly spheres according to the classical conception. Also See: Sefirot, Sefiroth Sesquiquadrate: (135 degrees)--Planets four and one-half signs apart indicate agitation, which may not be evident to observers. Also See: Sesquisquare Sex: While sexual activities are most commonly practiced for pleasure and procreation, there has been a secret knowledge held among various groups that that the energy raised during sexual activity, as well as the mental state that occurs during prolonged sexual activity, can be united to create remarkable changes in our spiritual selves and physical environment. The techniques to do this are commonly called Sex Magick. Many thousands of years ago, the philosophy and techniques that would become known as Tantra developed in northern India. Over the centuries, it developed into a complete spiritual system, involving worship of deities, rituals, magick, healing, and virtually every aspect of life. This includes an in-depth study of the non-physical aspects of the body (such as the aura, chakras, and energy paths) and sexuality, especially the use of sex in a way that can lead to spiritual enlightenment. In the West, the Tantric sexual techniques (often confused with the complete spiritual system that is Tantra) have been popularized and described by numerous writers and authors. Over the past century, there has been an increasing link between Western Sex Magic and Tantric sexual techniques such that some people equate them. Sex and Tantra: While sexual activities are most commonly practiced for pleasure and procreation, there has been a secret knowledge held among various groups that that the energy raised during sexual activity, as well as the mental state that occurs during prolonged sexual activity, can be united to create remarkable changes in our spiritual selves and physical environment. The techniques to do this are commonly called Sex Magick. Many thousands of years ago, the philosophy and techniques that would become known as Tantra developed in northern India. Over the centuries, it developed into a complete spiritual system, involving worship of deities, rituals, magick, healing, and virtually every aspect of life. This includes an in-depth study of the non-physical aspects of the body (such as the aura, chakras, and energy paths) and sexuality, especially the use of sex in a way that can lead to spiritual enlightenment. In the West, the Tantric sexual techniques (often confused with the complete spiritual system that is Tantra) have been popularized and described by numerous writers and authors. Over the past century, there has been an increasing link between Western Sex Magic and Tantric sexual techniques such that some people equate them. Sex Magic: Sex magic directs the energies raised during sensual arousal to achieve a desired goal. Western sex magic often uses alchemical terminology, although its sources go back to ancient shamanism, pre-Christian Pagan practices, and some sects of Gnosticism. Basic concepts include the extension of sensual activity to build up the energy and that the thought held at orgasm comes to pass. Prominent proponents include the O.T.O., Louis T. Culling, and Aleister Crowley. In recent decades, these Western practices have been influenced by Indian and Tibetan Tantra as well as Chinese Taoist alchemy. Sextile: (60 degrees)--Planets that are two signs apart are able to cooperate to produce opportunities. Shamanism: A shaman is one who helps people in their dealings with the other worlds. These other worlds are the realms above, beyond, and deep with the experiences of our lives. These are the realms of the spiritual, psychic vision and pure, natural Earth energies. In shamanism these worlds were traditionally represented as the upper world of the sky, or spirit levels, and the lower worlds of Earth and Nature. shapeshifter: There are many legends about the power of shapeshifting, all written as if the person practicing it physically became another creature. However, physically speaking, this doesn't happen. This shamanic talent is really the assuming of a certain creature's characteristics, traits, and talents for a limited time and for a particular purpose. Shin: The twenty-first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Sh or S. Represents the number 300. The third and last of the three "mother letters." A Hebrew word meaning "tooth." Corresponds to the element of Fire, the 31st Path (between Hod and Malkuth), and Tarot trump XX Judgment. Also See: Sin Sidereal Zodiac: Due to slight changes in the movement of the Earth around its axis, the positions of the stars in the sky relative to the equinoxes and solstices slowly change in what is called the Precession of the Equinoxes. In the common Western form of astrology, which uses the Tropical zodiac, the Vernal Equinox always is associated with 0 degrees of the sign Aries. With the Sidereal Zodiac, which is found in other forms of astrology such as Jyotish, the astrology of India, the equinoxes and solstices move slowly backward through the signs of the Zodiac at a rate of one degree between 70.59 and 72.15 years. Sidhe: (shee) - "Peace" in Old Irish. Aes Sidhe, "or people of peace," is the name for the spirits and ghosts of the Otherworld. Sigel: The 16th rune of the Elder Futhark, representing the letter s. SIGEL, along with TIR, is one of the great runes of victory , and its appearance in the runecast virtually assures success. Also See: Sowelu Significator: A card that represents the querent in a tarot reading. Signs of the Zodiac: The Zodiac is a circle of space surrounding the Earth. It may be imagined as a belt in the heavens about 15 degrees wide in which the planets travel. It is the Sun's apparent path, called the ecliptic. The zodiacal circle is divided into twelve parts, each part containing 30 degrees of space called the Signs of the Zodiac. Thus a sign is a one-twelfth division of the zodiacal circle and is defined as containing 30 degrees of celestial longitude: 12 signs each measuring 30 degrees constitute the circle of the zodiac or 360 degrees. In this circle the planets travel each in its own orbit, one outlying beyond the other. The zodiac, then, is a circle divided into twelve signs through which the planets travel or transit from west to east, going through one sign after another in their order from Aries to Pisces. Although the zodiac is generally referred to as a circle it is, in fact, elliptical. Each sign possesses a certain specific influence of its own. The motion of the Earth around the Sun once a year causes the Sun to appear to pass through one of the 12 signs each month. Its influence, according to location, determines not alone the seasons but the general nature and character of persons born at that time. The signs in order are Aries the Ram, Taurus the Bull, Gemini the Twins, Cancer the Crab, Leo the Lion, Virgo the Virgin, Libra the Scales, Scorpio the Scorpion, Sagittarius the Archer, Capricorn the Goat, Aquarius the Water-Bearer, and Pisces the Fishes. Silver\\'s Spells Series: One of the most popular writers on Paganism, Wicca, and Witchcraft, is Silver RavenWolf. Her writings are especially popular among people who practice their form of spirituality by themselves. Many of these practitioners requested more simple and direct spells and magical techniques, and Silver answered their requests by writings books of spells. Included in this series are books of spells for abundance, protection, and love. Sitter: A person who attends a séance. Sixth Sense: A popular term for all forms of ESP. Also See: 6th Sense Skeptic: Traditionally a term describing a person who doubts or questions all accepted opinions (in its extreme philosophical form, a person who denies the possibility of knowledge or even rational belief in any specific area). It might best be equated with the simple expression in regard to any concept or datum, "prove it." The term today is used by some people as a euphemism for a type of "debunker," specifically a person who attempts to disprove any beliefs, facts, or information that refutes their own belief system. Skyclad: Naked, usually in ritual. Skyclad: A term used by Wiccans to indicate ritual nudity. Smoky Quartz: Smoky quartz is a translucent grayish/brown quartz with natural irradiation. This form of quartz will initiate movement of the basic, primal forces of your body, allowing you to express your physical self better. Smoky quartz will lend a person a sense of pride to be able to walk the Earth and inhabit a human body. It is very helpful for those of an earthy nature, and when worn as an amulet it can induce mental clarity and stimulate physical energy. It also protects and strengthens one while walking on the Earth
Smudge/Smudge
Stick: To spiritually cleanse an object by waving incense over and around it. A smudge stick is a bundle of several incense
sticks.
Snow Quartz: Snow quartz is a delicate, translucent white form of quartz. It is a member of the chalcedony family, and is made of silica. It is a cryptocrystalline quartz and is found in Brazil, U.S. and Mexico. Snow quartz helps us to have a focus of purity in ourselves. It helps for clarity of mind, and activates the crown chakra. It shows us our personal identification with the Infinite, the oneness with God. It represents peace and wisdom. It is a stone that has the power to act as an insulator for all things. It can stop negative vibrations and maintain positive vibrations. Snow quartz can help develop psychic abilities. It causes the intellect to become more spiritual and helps one to have a love of truth. Snowflake Obsidian: Snowflake obsidian is a striking black, lustrous opaque stone with grayish/white bold markings, much like the beautiful patterns of snowflakes on a black background. It is a form of volcanic, amorphous, siliceous glassy rock. This form of obsidian is found in Utah. Snowflake obsidian is said to sharpen both the external and the internal vision. It is one of the most important "teachers" of the New Age stones. It is the warrior of truth, and shows the self where the ego is at, and what it must change in order to advance to the next step of evolutionary growth. Sodalite: Sodalite is a deep, rich blue stone with white inclusions. It is composed of chloric sodium aluminum silicate. It is found mostly in Canada and Brazil. Sodalite is said to prolong physical endurance, and is used by athletes. It is said to help create harmony within the inner being and to stop conflict between the conscious mind and the subconscious. It is good for those who are oversensitive and reactive, allowing a person to shift from emotional to rational thinking. Sodalite helps clear away old mental patterns. It helps one to understand the nature of one's self in relation to the universe. It awakens the third eye which prepares the mind to receive the inner light and intuitive knowledge. Sodalite is the densest and the most grounded of the deep blue stones, and clears the mind so that it can think with greater perception. Solitaries: Pagans who prefer to practice alone. Although they may attend public Pagan functions and enjoy group interaction on occasion, they are not interested in joining a Pagan circle or coven on a permanent basis. Solitary Witch: In modern Neo-Paganism, a person who practices Witchcraft by himself or herself as opposed to being part of a group (traditionally called a Coven). The Solitary Witch, also known as a Solitary, practices this way out of choice, out of the necessity of keeping their practices private, or having no other Witches in the area with which to practice. A Solitary Witch may have learned his or her practices with the help of a Coven, but more often learns from books, websites, etc. The most popular resources for Solitary Witches include Wicca, A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner by Scott Cunningham, and Solitary Witch by Silver RavenWolf (both published by Llewellyn Publications). Also See: Solitary Solitary Witch: Some Solitary Witches have begun to call themselves "Solitaires," which has added a new definition to that word as they are certainly not a gem in a setting by itself, a type of North American thrush, an extinct bird related to the dodo, or a card game played by oneself. Also See: Solitary Solstice: Standing Still. The point in the earth's orbit around the Sun in which the ecliptic reaches its maximum obliquity. The Summer Solstice occurs annually around June 22, when the Sun enters Cancer at 23.5 degrees N declination, highest overhead in the northern hemisphere. The longest day of the year. The Winter Solstice occurs annually around December 22, when the Sun enters Capricorn at 23.5 degrees S declination, its lowest point in the northern hemisphere. The shortest day of the year. South Node: The South Node is the point where the Moon's orbit falls below the ecliptic. See Nodes. Sowulo: The 16th rune of the Elder Futhark, representing the letter s. Sowulo represents the higher will or intent as well as the sense of self and self-worth. It is the highest force in the self, directing the individual's evolution along a specific path. Also See: Sowelo, Sigel Special Topics in Tarot: Llewellyn Publications has rapidly become one of the largest publishers and distributors or Tarot decks in the world. As has become traditional, each deck comes with a booklet or book of instructions, and there are many books available that give basic introductions to the Tarot. Answering a need for more advanced books on the Tarot, Llewellyn created the Special Topics in Tarot series. Each book, written by an expert in Tarot, focuses on single aspects of the Tarot and explores them in depth. Topics in the series include reversals, the court cards, designing your own spreads, magic with the cards, and using the Tarot with dream interpretation and past lives. Authors include Mary Greer, Ruth Ann and Wald Amberstone, Teresa Michelson, Edain McCoy, and Donald Michael Kraig. Spell: A simple and basic act of magick that incorporates the use of raised power or drawn power. In a spell the mind is conditioned by each step or phase of the spell as it unfolds. The process of performing a spell allows the mind t draw upon its inner powers. The spell is a focus for the mind, a catalyst to unlocking its abilities, and it enables the mind to create changes in the astral substance, which will then cause changes to occur in the physical world. Spells: Spells are magical rituals. Magical rituals may also be spells (though there are many different types of rituals). A spell, then, is an act of magic in which energies are raised, "programmed" with a magical need (such as love or money) and directed to do their work. A few spells are secret; most are not. Secret spells aren't more effective than their non-secret cousins. Any spell will work, provided that it's been properly written, and provided that it's properly performed. Spells usually consist of gathering together the needed items, charging them with power, and using them in some fashion. Herb spells are among the easiest to master. In this guide, I'll use the words "spell" and "ritual" interchangeably. Also See: spell Spirit Communication: Based on the belief that our soul survives death, spirit communication is the belief that people alive today can communicate with the souls or spirits of those who have died. Spirit communication is a major part of the religion of Spiritualism. Some people use spirit communication to speak with ghosts in an attempt to discover why they are haunting some location and with the hope that such information can help end the haunting. Spiritism: Spiritualism. Sometimes used as a derogatory term. Spiritist: Spiritualist. Sometimes used as a derogatory term. Spiritualism: A religion, science and philosophy that believes in continuous life, based upon communication with those who live in the spirit world, as demonstrated through mediumship. Through such communication one is able to receive guidance in mundane and spiritual matters from spiritual beings who are knowledgeable. Personal responsibility, the golden rule and the belief that the door to reformation is never closed are embraced. Spiritualist: One who believes as the basis of their religion in the continuity of life and personal responsibility, and endeavors to mold their character and conduct in accordance with the highest teaching derived from communion with the spirit world. They may or may not be a medium. Spirituality: The property of being more focused on the spirit or soul and its development. Often, people focused on spiritual development show less interest in the physical world. Spontaneous Human Combustion: Highly controversial, this refers to instances where people have burst into fire with no obvious source. Some have claimed that the people burn from the inside out, while skeptic point to bizarre coincidences to explain what took place. Spread: A standard method of laying out the cards in a tarot reading. See Celtic Cross. Square: (90 degrees)--Planets three signs apart indicate challenges. Sri Yantra: Also known as the Sri (pronounced "shree") Chakra, the Sri Yantra is one of the most popular spiritual geometrical images in India. The Sri Yantra has been called "the mother of all yantras" because it is believed that all other traditional yantras can be made from this one. It is made of a central point called the "bindu" surrounded by nine intersecting triangles, with five pointing down (representing female energy) and four pointing up (representing male energy). The intersections form 43 more triangles. Surrounding this are two rings of symbolic lotus petals, eight in the inner ring and sixteen in the outer. Outside of this are three circles and an outer "square" with outcroppings in four directions called "doors." Dedicated to the goddess Lalita Tripura Sundari, the image has places or "seats" for 108 goddesses. In some Tantric traditions the image is worshiped. The practice begins by calling each goddess and reciting her mantra while visualizing her image in the appropriate location on the yantra. Stage Hypnosis: The use of hypnosis (or an imitation of hypnosis) for the purpose of entertainment. Although there are some similarities with the professional use of hypnosis to help people make changes in their lives, the differences far outweigh the similarities and have given many people a completely false impression as to the nature of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. As a result, hypnotherapists need to spend time with clients exploding the myths that surround hypnosis as a result of such shows. Also See: Hypnosis Stang: A long single branch that ends by dividing into a "Y" shape. Used by some Wiccan/Witchcraft traditions to symbolize the Goddess. Also represents duality and the vagina as a fertility symbol. Some traditions place it with the forked end up at one of the four quarters during rituals "to symbolize an alignment to the Goddess." Star: One of the trumps of the Major Arcana of the tarot. Numbered XVII. In the system of Eliphas Levi, it corresponds to the Hebrew letter Peh and the heaven of the soul. In the system of the Golden Dawn, The Star corresponds to the Hebrew letter Tzaddi and the astrological sign of Aquarius. According to Aleister Crowley, The Star corresponds to the Hebrew letter Heh. Also See: L'Etoile Stellium: When three or more planets are in conjunction with one another, a stellium is formed. This adds intensity to the sign and house in which they occur. A stellium creates a sense of self-absorption and can add a self-centeredness to the personality, but it also provides a sense of focus. The difficulty arises when the individual needs to change focus or make adjustments. Stigmata: Unexplained wounds or marks on the body, usually corresponding the person's conception of where the nails were put into the body of Jesus. Straif: The 14th letter of the Ogham tree alphabet, representing the letter Z and meaning "blackthorn." The blackthorn is traditionally a sign of bad luck.... Straif is an indication that things are happening that you cannot control. Strega: This is an Italian tradition that emphsizes herbal knowledge and tends to be strongly matriarchal. Strength: One of the trumps of the Major Arcana of the tarot. Numbered XI or VIII. In the system of Eliphas Levi, it corresponds to the Hebrew letter Kaph. In the system of the Golden Dawn, Strength corresponds to the Hebrew letter Teth and the astrological sign of Leo. Also See: La Force, Fortitude Succedent: Succedent houses of the birth chart (2nd, 5th, 8th, and 11th) are sensitive; planets placed in these houses are likely to carry a more passionate charge. Sufi: A practitioner of Sufism. sufism: Sufi teachings center on the social and psychological relevance of certain human ideas. Practitioners of Sufism bring their experiences into operation with the culture, the country, the climate in which they are living. Sufism is concerned with leading by example and not preaching. Also See: sufi sufism: called tasawwuf in Arabic, it is a mystical, psycho-spiritual aspect of Islam. There are many different sects or orders of Sufism with varying practices. Also See: sufi Suit: The four suits of the Tarot are Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. The French terms are Batons, Coupes, Epees, and Deniers, respectively. Sun: The Sun rules Leo. Vitality is the energy reflected by the Sun in the astrological chart. Just as the Sun is the source of life for all living things we know of, the Sun's position in your chart is an indicator of the way you approach life. Nearly everyone knows their Sun sign and a little bit about it. We read the astrology column in the newspaper to see how the day will be for our sign. Many people like the time of year around their birthday, not just because it is near their birthday, but because the energy of the Sun sign is so conformable. Young children express the Sun sign energy clearly and directly. We tend to move away from this clarity as we learn different forms of expression, yet we always come back to the foundation of the Sun sign, learning to perfect the strengths that it indicates and to compensate for any weaknesses. The Sun is, in addition to being the source of life, the sustainer of our individual character. When you understand the deeper nature of your Sun sign, you also understand the core direction for your personal expression in the world. The house position of the Sun in your chart indicates one area of life that takes on greater importance than any other. It is the area where you are perhaps the most self-conscious, it is where your will can be best expressed, it is where you can develop the greatest arrogance. You will focus loyalty and generosity in that area, as well as discover your own personal dignity. The house and sign of the sun indicates an area in which you will strive to express yourself, and you will want to be recognized for your activities in that area of life. As you gain experience in living, you may become bolder in your efforts to attain your Sun sign goals. You can become a leader in this area because you understand the deepest and broadest values of this area of your life. When you read about your Sun sign, take the details to heart. Make a personal effort - use your will - to develop the highest and best expression of this sign. It is your birthright, and the area where you can learn to speak and act with authority. Sun: One of the trumps of the Major Arcana of the tarot. Numbered XIX. In the system of Eliphas Levi, it corresponds to the Hebrew letter Qoph. In the system of the Golden Dawn, The Sun corresponds to the Hebrew letter Resh and the Sun. Also See: Le Soleil Supercharged Orb: A film that shows an orb that has color. Most frequently the color of supercharged orbs is red or green. See: Orb Sword: Less useful, but still necessary for high magic or theurgy which involves chaotic spirits, is the sword. This is similar in its functioning to the wand, but whereas the wand has a neutral nature, the sword is overtly offensive, projecting power to dominate and hurt. It is supposed to be made by the Magus, but I hazard to say that not one in a thousand occultists who possesses the magic sword has actually fashioned the blade by hand. It is considered acceptable to procure a short sword, or long knife, and after thoroughly purifying it, consecrate it by anointing and prayer to its magical purpose. I use an old British army bayonet myself, which is shaped as a sword, hilt and all, and find it effective-perhaps especially so due to its military associations. Swords: One of the four suits of the Tarot, corresponding to the modern Spades and to the warrior class or nobility of medieval society. In the system of the Golden Dawn, corresponds to the element of Air and the Vav of Tetragrammaton. Also See: Epees Sworn Book of Honorius: The introduction states that the book was fashioned in response to the Medieval inquisitions. It could be called a Catholic magickal text related to the "Ars Notoria" of the Lemegeton. The magickal operation described consists of twenty days of purification followed by the actual magickal work. This is similar to the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage. Sycomancy: Divination using fig tree leaves. Questions, wishes, or desires would be written on a leaf. If the leaf dried quickly, the answer was negative. If it dried slowly, it indicated success or good fortune. Sylphs: Sylphs are elemental spirits of Air. (See Elementals) Sylphs: sylph [F. sylphe, m., prob. fr. L. Sylphus, Sulfus, name of some divinity] An imaginary [sic] being inhabiting the air;--a name given by Paracelsus to the elemental beings of the air, conceived as mortal but soulless. Sympathetic Magic: This may be the most practiced form of magic on earth. It is certainly the best known. The basic idea for this style of magic is the occult concept that "like attracts like." Thus, jumping in freshly-planted fields is an attempt to bring, by magic, the same result in the crops. Since red is considered an energetic color, according to sympathetic magic burning a red candle can bring you energy. One of the best-known forms of sympathetic magic is that of using a doll. This practice is found in most cultures around the world. The doll represents a person (yourself or someone else), and doing magic with the doll as a focus results in the magic having an effect on the person whom the doll represents. In James Frazer's The Golden Bough, the author suggests that there are invisible connections between all things and that sympathetic magic works through these bonds. To add to the connection, people add personal items from the person being represented to the doll. This could be anything from a lock of hair or fingernail paring to a ring or snip of clothing. Sometimes a picture of the person is used. Often, the doll is very primitive in appearance as in "Voodoo" dolls or the "poppets" of Witchcraft. Synchronicity: Originally a term created by psychologist Carl Jung meaning that the mind creates a relationship between two events when none exists. What the mind created to link the two unrelated events was considered psychologically interesting. For some researchers, magick is this same sort of acausal connecting principle because a ritual or magickal act seems to have no direct causal effect on the outcome of the ritual, and yet the desired outcome occurs after the magickal work. Some people use the term as the actual unknown cause ("What causes magick to work? Synchronicity.") of magick working rather than simply noting that the relationship between magick and the effect of magick appears to be acausal and unrelated. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- T-Square: When three or more planets in a birth chart are connected involving two or more opposing planets with another planet placed square to the opposing planets, a T-square or T-cross is formed. These planets are usually in the same mode (Cardinal, Fixed, or Mutable), and in conflict with one another. There is a great deal of energy released through the T-square, which indicates that a person will have a life with difficulties, but also the potential for great accomplishment. Table Tilting: Also known as Table Turning, this refers to mysterious movements of a table, usually at a séance. It can be used to answer questions (tap once for "yes," twice for "no," etc.) and some people have recreated the phenomenon outside of the séance circle. Talisman: A talisman is any object, sacred or profane, with or without appropriate symbols, charged or consecrated by appropriate means and made to serve a specific end. Tantra: While sexual activities are most commonly practiced for pleasure and procreation, there has been a secret knowledge held among various groups that that the energy raised during sexual activity, as well as the mental state that occurs during prolonged sexual activity, can be united to create remarkable changes in our spiritual selves and physical environment. The techniques to do this are commonly called Sex Magick. Many thousands of years ago, the philosophy and techniques that would become known as Tantra developed in northern India. Over the centuries, it developed into a complete spiritual system, involving worship of deities, rituals, magick, healing, and virtually every aspect of life. This includes an in-depth study of the non-physical aspects of the body (such as the aura, chakras, and energy paths) and sexuality, especially the use of sex in a way that can lead to spiritual enlightenment. In the West, the Tantric sexual techniques (often confused with the complete spiritual system that is Tantra) have been popularized and described by numerous writers and authors. Over the past century, there has been an increasing link between Western Sex Magic and Tantric sexual techniques such that some people equate them. Taoism: A spiritual philosophy that began in China based on the writings attributed to Lao-tzu (who flourished in the 6th century b.c.e.). Its primary book is the Tao Te Ching. As a philosophy, Taoism stresses contemplation, a mystical with nature, wisdom and learning, a simple life, and the concept of wu-wei or non-action and allowing things to take the course that they will. Religious aspects of Taoism developed around the 3rd century c.e., and incorporated some Buddhist concepts as well as a system of monasteries. One of the monasteries, the Sil Lum monastery (also known as the Shaolin monastery) is considered the home of the martial art of kung fu and the many other arts derived from it. Tarot: A mystical set of cards having an uncertain origin. Although these cards, covered with images, are most commonly used for divination, they have much more spiritual purposes. The Tarot is composed of two main sections, the 22 picture cards of the Major Arcana and the 56 numbered cards of the Minor Arcana. Tassomancy: (Greek, tassos, "cup," and manteia, "divination") The art of divination by tea leaves. Tau: The twenty-second and last letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Th or T. Represents the number 400. The seventh and last of the seven "double letters." A Hebrew word meaning "tau cross." Corresponds to Saturn, the 32nd Path (between Yesod and Malkuth), and Tarot trump XXI The World. Also See: Taw Taurus: The best quality of Taurus is stability. The worst quality is stubbornness. A key phrase is "I have." The Taurus personality is industrious, sometimes even plodding. It is easy to imagine the Taurus still going, like the Energizer Bunny, when everyone else has quite for the day. Once you get on a roll, you don't want to stop. Taurus is seen as being reliable and generally consistent. You know the value of money and appreciate material possessions. The Taurus mentality leans to things practical. Generally careful, you can discriminate quality and tend to be perfectionists. You have enormous energy reserves. You can pursue a single task for a long time, then switch tracks and take on another. You may not know when to rest. Taurus is immovable. Once you have made up your mind, changing it is like moving the whole earth. You may listen to the opinions of others, but you stick to your own. You are interested in the psychic realm as it is so close to the present moment. Conservative in temperament, Taurus appreciates the traditional way of doing things. You are unlikely to abandon a system just because it has a flaw - you are more likely to capitalize on its strengths and find a way around the problem. Taurus is patient. You can wait for the right time to act, and you allow others the time you need to accomplish your tasks - that is only practical after all! Taurus enjoys a daily routine, a weekly routine, an annual routine. Generally you cannot be rushed into action. You are like a train - you only move as fast as you move. Yet Taurus is usually efficient, not wanting to waste effort, and therefore discovering the most direct path. Taurus generally has a reserved disposition. You dislike change and are therefore less likely to force change on others. You are possessive and therefore do not demand that others give up your possessions. Taurus, like the bull, is placid, willing to take what comes, as long as it doesn't irritate overmuch. Taurus' color is pastels, especially pinks and blues. The part of the body is the throat and lower jaw. Taurus: The Maintainer Key Phrase: I HAVE Taurus is conservative, and prefers to maintain the status quo. Operating in a Fixed mode and the Earth element, Taurus can be extremely stabilizing - like the Rock of Gibraltar. Through a natural connection with the energy of Venus, Taurus loves the good things of life, and can be highly affectionate. A natural, earthy sensuality is associated with this sign, which can also be highly possessive. Taurus is calm, steadfast, and enduring, but can become a raging bull when angered to the extreme. The symbol of the Bull associated with this sign shows the power behind it, yet there can also be a slow, plodding pace connected to Taurus. The desire for a stable financial and emotional base can lead to extreme materialism when those of this sign feel insecure. But in its most positive expression, Taurus is the essence of deep and abiding love. Where you see Taurus in the chart, there is focus and conservatism. Teen: A short version of teenager, a human between the age of thirteen and nineteen. Psychologically, the period where most people begin differentiating themselves from their parents or guardians and move toward complete independence of personality and individuality. Teens frequently develop their own jargon, music, style, and ways of communicating with each other. As a result, each generation of teens popularizes new writers who speak their language, not merely using the jargon, but approaching their concerns and needs in a way that appeals to them. Llewellyn publications has sought out some of the finest authors who can appeal to teens, providing a number of books ranging from novels to non-fiction that deal with issues important to teens. Teen Wicca: Wicca is one of the fastest growing religions in the world, and many teens have discovered that as a religion, it fits their needs more than other religions. The practices and beliefs vary widely, but most include worship of a god and goddess, honoring the Earth, and the practice of magic. The first book on the subject was Teen Witch by Silver RavenWolf. Teiwaz: The 17th rune of the Elder Futhark, representing the letter t. This is the first rune of the third aett, which is named after it: the aett of Tyr. Teiwaz is the oldest name known for the god Tyr... The Teiwaz rune should be used in workings to gain justice or to win victory in a conflict. Also See: Tyr, Tir Telekinesis: The movement of objects without physical contact. One form of telekinesis, psychokinesis, implies that this is a type of human ability. Telekinesis may be created by any source, human, alien, non-physical spirit, etc. Telepathy: Ability to know what another is thinking, experiencing, etc. May be difficult to distinguish from clairvoyance. Telepathy: The ability to communicate with another person or spirit through the mind alone. Telesmatic Image: A system used by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn to develop images for visualization of a non-physical entity for magickal purposes based on the letters of the name of the entity to be given an image. Temperance: One of the trumps of the Major Arcana of the tarot. Numbered XIV. In the system of Eliphas Levi, it corresponds to the Hebrew letter Nun and the heaven of the Sun. In the system of the Golden Dawn, Temperance corresponds to the Hebrew letter Samekh and the astrological sign of Sagittarius. Teth: The ninth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, hard T. Represents the number 9. The fifth of the twelve "single letters." A Hebrew word meaning "serpent." Corresponds to Leo, the 19th Path (between Chesed and Geburah), and Tarot trump VIII (or XI) Strength. Also See: Tet Tetragrammaton: The Holy Ineffable Name of God, YHVH, Yahweh, Jehovah, etc.; the Name of Four Letters. The four consonants of YHVH correspond to the four elements, the four worlds, the four suits of the tarot, ad infinitum. Also See: YHVH, Yahweh, Jehovah The Book of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage: Although often linked with other grimoires, the principal upon which the text is based is that all material happiness can only come from spiritual evolution. The text is divided into three books. The first is an autobiography of the author-a man who calls himself Abraham the Jew. The second book has the instructions for the sacred magick given to Abraham by Abramelin. It involves six months of purifications after which an Angel will appear and bond with the aspirant. The third book is a collection of magick-square talismans. The Discoverie of Witchcraft: First published in 1584 and written by Reginald Scot, a Justice of the Peace in England, this book was an attack on the "Witch craze" in Europe. He contended that the women who claimed to have great powers were ill or deluded. The effects attributed to so-called Witches were natural-the Will of God-not caused by magic. This classic book was also one of the first books attempting to "debunk" a wide variety of mystical topics including charms, astrology, alchemy, demonology, spells, divination, magic, etc. It was inspired because Scot saw so many women being abused and persecuted under the excuse of trying them for being Witches. One of the things many people of the day couldn't understand was the seeming miracles produced by "jugglers" and others. In a small section of the book, Scot revealed how some of these early conjuring effects were performed, making this one of the earliest books on "legerdemain" ever published. Some modern conjurors contend that this was the actual purpose of the book, but that is highly debatable. Also See: Discoverie of Witchcraft The Grand Grimoire: Also known as the "Red Dragon," this best known of the "black" grimoires includes instructions for making pacts with devils. The Grimoire of Armadel: Often confused with the Lemegeton's "Almadel" or the Arbatel of Magic (it borrows from the latter), it is a very simple book, full of colorful Sigils related to recognizable Angels and spirits along with borrowed conjurations. Apparently, one is intended to inscribe the Sigils on consecrated parchment, and use them to contact Angels and spirits who have mysteries to reveal. The Magus: Published in 1801 and also known as the "Celestial Intelligencer," it was meant as a textbook for classes in magick the author, Francis Barrett, was teaching. The material was taken from earlier works, including Agrippa's Three Books of Occult Philosophy, the Heptameron, and the Fourth Book of Occult Philosophy. The Truth About Series: There are many misconceptions about a variety of aspects of occultism. Most books explaining the truth on this subjects have been long and involved. Recognizing a need to get accurate information on individual topics to the public, Llewellyn Publications has created a series of short, fact-filled books that focus on revealing the truth about individual topics such as Witchcraft, the evocation of spirits, graphology, and Enochian magick. Writers are experts in their fields and include Scott Cunningham, Edred Thorsson, Gerald and Betty Schueler, and Donald Michael Kraig. Thelema: (Greek, "will") A religion founded by English magus Aleister Crowley (1875-1947) and propagated by his followers since his death. The central text of Thelema is the Book of the Law, which was revealed to Crowley in 1904 by a disembodied intelligence named Aiwass. Thelemic: Concerning the religion of Thelema as propounded by Aleister Crowley. Thelemite: A follower of the religion of Thelema as propounded by Aleister Crowley Theosophical Reduction: In numerology, interpretations are generally based on single digits. Most words, however, end up have values above nine. Theosophical Reduction is the name given to the process of adding up the digits of a number repeatedly until you get a single digit. Thus, adding the digits of a year such as 1998 (1+9+9+8) is 27. Use the process again to get 9. You would then make an interpretation for the year based on the number 9. A few numbers (11, 22) are known as "master numbers" and have their own interpretations, so they are not reduced. Theosophy: A mystical public society founded in New York in 1875 by Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, Henry Steel Olcott, and William Quan Judge. It's headquarters eventually moved to India. It originally focused on mystical Hindu and Buddhist concepts combined with neo-Platonism, and had as its motto, "There is no religion higher than Truth." The original moving force of the society was Blavatsky, and her books, Isis Unveiled and The Secret Doctrine became important texts of the society. She felt that The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn was a challenge to Theosophy, so she founded a more practical or magical group within the Society known as the Esoteric Section or ES. There were many members of the Golden Dawn within Theosophy. Upon Blavatsky's death in 1891 there were schisms in the Society and several branches developed. Woman's rights activist Annie Besant ruled the branch in India. Mrs. Katherine Tingley founded a group in Point Loma, California, and Rudolph Steiner began a branch in Germany. Other groups formed in England and Los Angeles, and splinter group or societies based on parts of Theosophy developed and continue to evolve. Many concepts of the New Age are derived from Theosophical teachings. Three Books of Occult Philosophy: First drafted in 1509-10 by Henry Cornelius Agrippa (student of Johannes Trithemius), this is the single most important grimoiric text in existence. It is not, in fact, a practical manual, but is instead a compendium of the theories and philosophies upon which Medieval and Renaissance magick are based. Thurisaz: Thurisaz is the third rune in the first aett, and its element is fire. The traditional name of this rune is Thurisaz, which is a very ancient name for Thor and appears in literature alongside the names Wodenaz and Teiwaz. Thurisaz also means "giant." I know a third: in the thick of battle, If my need be great enough, It will blunt the edges of enemy swords, Their weapons will make no wounds. --Havamal Thurisaz: The third rune of the Elder Futhark, representing the sound Th. THURISAZ is not only the vexing thorn which its name implies but also the glyph of the Hammer of Thor--the mighty weapon Mjollnir, protector of men and gods alike. Tiger Eye: Tiger eye is a beautiful, golden-brown shiny stone which appears lifelike due to its chatoyancy, or silky luster. It is a crystallized quartz, made of silica. It is found mostly in Africa. This stone has been worn through the ages to avert the evil eye and help prevent eye diseases. Tiger eye helps people gain insight into their own faults, and to think more clearly. This stone is helpful for greater spiritual understanding. It helps develop courage and inner strength, and gives one a sense of responsibility. Tiger eye helps to defeat negative forces. Because of its ever-changing appearance when viewed from different angles, it helps the person using it to become "all seeing", able to view different ways of observing a situation. It gives one the ability to become more direct, more channeled in their way of thinking. Tinne: The eighth letter of the Ogham tree alphabet, representing the letter T and meaning "holly." The holly has foliage all year round.... Tinne relates to balance, fair play, and right overcoming wrong. It is a sign of justice and gives strength and power. Tiphareth: The sixth Sephirah of the cabalistic Tree of Life, the central Sephirah on the Middle Pillar. The term is a Hebrew word meaning "Beauty." It represents the archetype of the number 6, the descent of the Godhead into consciousness. It corresponds to the divine name YHWH Eloah va-Daath, the archangel Raphael, the angelic choir called Melekim (Kings), and Shemesh, or heavenly Sphere of the Sun. Tiphareth: In Kether is the Radix of a Golden Glory and thence is there a pure, primitive and sparkling, gleaming golden yellow which is reflected unto Tiphareth. Thus is the first reflected Triad completed. And the Sphere of its operation is that of Shemesh, the Solar Light, and bestoweth Life, Light and Brilliancy in metallic matter, and it ruleth the sphere of action of the Sun. And Yhvh Eloha va-Daath is a God of Knowledge and Wisdom, ruling over the Light of the Universe; and its Archangel is Raphael, the Prince of Brightness, Beauty and Life. And the Name of the Order of Angels is Melechim or Malakim, that is Kings or Angelic Kings, who are also called the Order of Virtues, Angels and Rulers. The Angels Peniel and Pelial are also referred unto this Sephira. It especially rules the Mineral world. Tir: The 17th rune of the Elder Futhark, representing the letter t. TIR is the other great rune of victory, representing success in any competition. Also See: Teiwaz Tourmalinated Quartz: Tourmalinated quartz is a clear form of quartz with silver filaments and threads of black tourmaline running through it. Much of this stone is found in Brazil. Tourmalinated quartz is good for dissolving fear in oneself. It can aid in eliminating negative conditioning patterns we have experienced in our lives. Use of this type of quartz kept near the body and meditated upon is said to increase mental awareness and enhance psychic ability. It soothes the central nervous system, and helps to alleviate depression and nervous exhaustion. Because tourmalinated quartz is a combination of quartz and tourmaline, it has influences and characteristics of both these gems. Touta: (toh-oo-tah) - A tribe or kindred of people who come together regularly. They form a local community. A congregation of people who meet regularly on a monthly basis, or at least four times a year to celebrate Celtic festivals. Tower: One of the trumps of the Major Arcana of the tarot. Numbered XVI. In the system of Eliphas Levi, it corresponds to the Hebrew letter Ayin and the heaven of the Moon. In the system of the Golden Dawn, The Tower corresponds to the Hebrew letter Peh and the planet Mars. Also See: La Maison de Dieu, The House of God, The Falling Tower, The Tower of Destruction Transits: The relationships of the positions of the planets in an astrological chart in comparison to their position in another chart. Usually, this compares the positions of the planets at a specific time (such as a birthday or at the time for making a decision) with the positions of a natal or birth horoscope. The transits can also be tracked on a daily basis. This information can be used by skilled astrologers to provide information on current ups and downs in a person's life. Tree of Life: Cabalism, at least in the Western occult tradition, is built around a diagram called the Tree of Life. This diagram contains ten circles representing the Sephiroth (singular: Sephirah); that is, the "spheres," "numbers," or "emanations." The Sephiroth are the numbers 1 through 10 considered in their archetypal sense. Each Sephirah is an archetypal idea. Also, the Sephiroth represent emanations from God and describe the process of creation. In the material world, they represent the heavenly spheres according to the classical conception. Trine: (120 degrees)--Planets four signs apart indicate comfortable conditions where their energies are concerned. Triplicities: The zodiacal signs are divided into four groups called "triplicities," and in their order they represent the four elements, fire, earth, air and water. Fiery Triplicity is composed of Aries, Leo, Sagittarius Earthly Triplicity: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn Airy Triplicity: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius Watery Triplicity: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces Trumps: The twenty-two cards of the major arcana of the Tarot; those cards not included in any of the four suits. The cards numbered 0 (the Fool) through 21 (the World). Tuonetar: ("TWOAN-etar"): Finnish goddess of the underworld. Tuulikki: ("TOO-il-eekey"): Finnish forest goddess. Called upon to insure abundance of game. Twilight Language: A Tantric concept (Sandhya Bhasha in Sanskrit) wherein a word or expression may literally mean one thing but to an initiate it will mean something else, perhaps even the opposite of the literal meaning. This can be seen in very figurative writing (as a Western example, see the Zohar) or very brief comments that need expansion (also seen in the Sepher Yetzirah). Tzaddi: The eighteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Tz or Ts. Represents the number 90 (or, as a final letter, 900). The eleventh of the twelve "single letters." A Hebrew word meaning "fishhook." Corresponds to Aquarius, the 28th Path (between Netzach and Yesod), and Tarot trump XVII The Star (or, in the system of Aleister Crowley, IV The Emperor). Also See: Sadhe -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Udana: Sanskrit for "breath," prana refers to the universal energy that flows through the body's web of non-physical channels known as nadis, the three most famous being the Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna. Different breathing patterns known as pranayamas can increase and direct this energy, leading to the simplification that prana and air are the same or that prana is in the air. In the traditional system, there are five different forms of prana: Prana: Moves inward. Governs all types of consumption: eating, drinking, breathing, sensory impressions. Apana: Moves away: Governs excretion or all sorts, as well as reproduction. Udana: Moves upward. Governs growth and development, as well as enthusiasm, speech, and the ability to stand. Samana: Balances from the edge to the center through churning and discerning. It is the "digestion" energy that aids the lungs in "digesting" air, the gastrointestinal system in digesting food, and the mind in "digesting" sensory input and ideas. Vyana: Moves outward from the center to the edge. Governs circulation of blood and the oxygen, hydration, and nutrition found in the blood. Aids in the "circulation" of ideas. Also See: prana UerDruis: The leader of the Celtic religious movement. Also See: Verdruis UFO: UFO - Unidentified Flying Object, also known as a flying saucer UFOs and Aliens: UFO is an abbreviation for Unidentified Flying Object. Although this could describe any object in the sky that cannot be identified by an observer, it usually is associated to vehicles from another planet piloted by aliens-entities from that planet. Although most such sightings of UFOs are eventually identified, the quantity of sightings by qualified, expert observers (such as professional pilots) or by large numbers of independent observers that remains unidentified is considerable. Due to the massive distance between planets and current inability of people on earth to know of a way to traverse such distances quickly, some researchers have developed the belief that UFOs may be from the future, from another dimension, or are unusual-and unexplained-natural phenomena. Uindos: An ancient Celtic god, son of Noudons, in a group of great epic tales and romances called the Fenian cycle. Uindos is also called Cernunnos (Greek). Most famous incarnation is as Finn Mac Cumhail. Also See: Finn Mac Cumhail, Cernunnos Uinllean: The 23rd letter of the Ogham tree alphabet, representing the letter P and meaning "honeysuckle." Uinllean is an indication that you will be able to see through situations and understand what is worthwhile and what is false. It means that you will instinctively know the right actions to take. Also See: Uillenn Undines: Undines are elemental spirits of Water. (See Elementals) Undines: undine [G. undine or F. ondine, fr. L. unda, a wave, water.] 1. One of a class of fabled female water spirits who might receive human souls by intermarrying with mortals;--so called by Paracelsus, who conceived them as the elementary beings of water. 2. [cap.] (German pronunciation, oon-dee-neh) Such a being, the heroine of a romance of this name by De la Motte Fouque'. She was a changeling in the hut of a fisherman, where Sir Huldbrand fell in love with her and married her. But he soon neglected his wife for the lady Bertalda, and Undine was carried away by her sisters into the sea. She returned on the day of her husband's wedding with Bertalda, and gave him a fatal kiss. Unikite: Unikite is a combination of salmon pink feldspar and green epidote, and is an opaque stone. It is named after the Unikite Mountains between North Carolina and Tennessee, where it is found. The pink in unikite speaks to the heart chakra to awaken the love within. The green lends it healing qualities to any hurts which have been sustained. The pink in unikite is a deeper shade of pink and is more grounding than that found in rose quartz. This stone has a leveling affect, and helps to balance the emotional aspects of the body. It is an earthy, peaceful stone. Ur: The 18th letter of the Ogham tree alphabet, representing the letter U and meaning "heather." Red heather is a sign of passion, while white heather acts as a protection against acts of passion.... Ur is an indication that you should find a "magnificent obsession" for yourself, something big, imaginatve, and a true test of your abilities. Also See: Uir Uranus: Uranus rules Aquarius. If you have wondered why and how sudden changes come into your life, look no further. Uranus may be the answer. This planet reflects the energy of sudden change and also provides the intuitive information you need to deal with beginnings, endings, and even catastrophes. Let's look at the independent, unconventional actions inspired within us and reflected by Uranus in the chart. This planet shows what part of your life will be the focus of your independence and where you will take an unconventional approach to family, career, relationship - everything. Disruptive ideas and events come along to bring you back into balance. Have you noticed that the more eccentric your behavior, the more life gives you a push and forces you to conform? This is Uranian type energy working to bring you back into balance. Next consider the role of intuition in your daily life. As you have disruptive episodes, you begin to be able to anticipate them, making adjustments ahead of time to minimize the upset. For example, once you slide on the ice a few times you learn how to keep your balance. Then you learn how to control a skid while driving a car. Then you understand how to manage a spiritual disruption ore easily. This is due to your developing intuition - you can foresee the future partly because of past experiences themselves and partly because you recall intuitive flashes that preceded or accompanied them. Uranus shows how this works for you personally. When you find yourself detaching from people and events, this is Uranus in action. You have the capacity to take an aloof position, a more analytical and less active role in situations. The placement and aspects of Uranus show how you can best achieve an impersonal attitude in the face of difficulty (or it shows you how to remain connected in those moments when you would really rather be doing something else). This energy focuses your attention on invisible inner perceptions of your world in a way that is similar to everyone in your age group (all your friends have Uranus in the same zodiac sign), yet utterly personal in its development and expression, based on the house placement and aspects to other planets. Uri Geller: Controversial Israeli psychic. In the 1970s he burst onto the world stage through apparent demonstrations of psychic ability. The most famous of these powers is the ability to bend silverware without applying any form of strong pressure. He also starts watches that have ceased to function, reproduces unseen drawings, etc. Geller semi-retired in the 1980s, but occasionally makes appearances. He has done a good job marketing himself through games, websites, and through authoring more than a dozen books. Although his powers have been duplicated by magicians and some of his public demonstrations have been "debunked," his popularity continues. He claims that he has made a fortune by dowsing for such things as oil and gold for companies that refuse to be identified. He currently lives on a large estate he owns in England. Uruz: The second rune of the Elder Futhark, representing the letter U. Uruz is the rune of the Aurochs, or wild ox, and in many ways is akin to FEHU. However, FEHU represents the domesticated, predictable farm cattle, whereas URUZ represents the vital, wild force and energy of the hardy wild ox... Uruz: The aurochs was a ferocious native species of wild ox which is now extinct. The energy behind this rune is the life force of the masculine polarity, the unconscious drive for manifestation. I know a second that the sons of men Must learn who wish to be leeches [i.e., healers]. --Havamal |
