From the Witches Almanac of 1973
In the beginning all arcane knowledge was transmitted orally. The novice Witch learned by heart the chants, spells and rites required to perform an act of magic. As the world became literate, grimories and books of Shadows were born. Grimoires are books of ceremonial magic - texts produced during the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. A Book of Shadows is the private journal of a Witch. Adages, maxims, poetry and secret thoughts as well as the properties of the sacred herbs, spells, incantations , charms, potions, and philtres copied down by hand might be found in a typical Book of Shadows. No rule govern binding , number of pages or contents. Each volume reflects the personal taste and essence of its author.
Here are a couple spells drawn from individual Books of Shadows kept during the 19th century. In reciting an incantation remember that the tempo should be far slower than that of ordinary speech. The desired effect is one of quiet emphasis and certain intent.
To Make a Wish Come True :
With a thorn prick the symbol of the waxing moon in a short, broad candle of pure beeswax. Light the candle and with eyes fixed upon its flame, concentrate on your wish as you chant :
Gracious Lady Moon
Ever in my sight
Kindly grant me the boon
I ask of thee tonight .
Blow out the flame but hold the memory of its light in you'r minds eye for as long as you can. A way to make your wish come true will reveal itself .
To Identify An Enemy :
In a one foot length of Scarlet yarn , tie 9 knots as you say :
These knots i knot
To know the thing, i know not yet
That i may see
The one who is my enemy
Sleep with the charm under your pillow and a vision of the person who means you harm will appear in a dream.
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