"Raven Grimassi
[Conversations arising from Raven's posts are included with the material to which they refer, but are indented to make them less intrusive.]
The Old Ways: The Spirit Flame
I would like to share some of the Old Hereditary Ways here, and invite others to post their techniques for Ritual or Magic, etc. I know many of you choose to believe that we Hereditary Witches do not exist, but that's O.K., you may still find this info of use (or at least of some interest). This first post is about what we call The Spirit Flame. In the Aridian Tradition, it is the focal point of the altar. A bowl is placed upon the center of the altar, and is filled with a special liquid, which will burn a blue flame. The appearance of the blue flame represents the presence of Divinity, within the ritual setting. The use of fire as a sacred symbol is one of the most ancient of practices.
If you wish to experience the Spirit Flame, you can perform the following, using any high quality perfume, or cologne. Strega Liquore is excellent, and contains all but one of the original ingredients (it is quite expensive, however). Place the bowl in the center of your altar (the bowl must be able to hold fire). Fill the bowl about half full. Set two altar candles, forward of the bowl, off to each side (you are forming a triangle; the bowl is the bottom point of an inverted triangle). Light the candles, and extinguish any other source of light. With a ritual tool such as a wand or blade, trace a crescent over the liquid, and say:
"In the name(s) of ____________
and by this sacred sign
be this the Essence of the Divine"
Then take a lit match and touch it, gently, to the surface of the liquid (do not use any liquid other than perfume or Liquor/ liquore). As you light the bowl say :
"I call upon Thee ___________________
be Thou present at this sacred place "
A beautiful blue flame will appear, and gently dance upon the surface of the liquid. We consider the flame to be sacred, and we use it to bless objects, empower tools, and create our ritual circles/sacred space. Feel free to experiment with it, but please treat it with respect. Allow the flame to go out by itself.
I have altered the wording, and omitted some of the gestures and invocations. You may insert the names of your own deities in the blank space. Even though altered, the technique here is sound, and should enrich whatever you may choose to do with the Spirit Flame.
This ritual has been preserved among the Hereditary Clans, and is still an aspect of all ritual gatherings. It is the oldest of our "laws" that nothing may be removed from the Teachings, so we still keep the Old Ways alive (we can add to our material, but we cannot remove anything). In Italy, Strega Liquore has been used as the Spirit Flame liquid, since it was first distilled in 1873. Originally the recipe was sold to the Alberti family, by some Strega (Italian for witch), with the exception of one certain ingredient. Before this, a liquid made from a mixture of distilled grape wine, and distilled grain, was the basis for the Spirit Flame liquid. It was quite similar to Brandy, which was first distilled around 100 AD
Scenes showing fermentation appear on pottery made in Mesopotamia as early as 4200 BC The earliest forms of Spirit Flame Liquid would have been a fermented substance, followed later by ones which were distilled. I am not at liberty to go into the individual ingredients, unfortunately. However, Strega Liquore is about as close as one can get without being initiated.
If the Spirit Flame was used outside of Italy, I am unaware of it. But I would be happy to know that others had this Tradition as well.
Don't laugh too hard at the following
Raven...I experimented with lighting the Strega in my bowl, in my case a cast-iron chili pot cum cauldron. It does WHOOSH, doesn't it?! (No, I didn't set myself on fire). And the blue is lovely...But everything got so hot that the Strega went into a rolling boil and essentially doused itself. IS this supposed to happen? I think I hear you laughing...SeraLuna
Dear SeraLuna, You can always pick out an Aridian, as they have no eyebrows, eyelashes, or hair!! <VBG> Seriously though, no it isn't supposed to do that. I suspect that you used too much Strega Liquore, and that the pot was too big. A Chili pot full of Strega would...well, it would do exactly what you described! I am glad that you're OK. Next time use only a small bowl, no larger than a cereal bowl, and only use about 2 or 3 oz. of liquid. Many Blessings, Raven
The Walnut Witches
In Italy, there is a legend of Witch gatherings in the town of Benevento, at the site of an old walnut tree. Manuscripts from old witch trials in Italy, speak of this tree which (it was said) had always been there, and was in leaf all year long. The nuts of this tree, were said to have been of pyramid-like form. Many of these walnuts were sold as talismans and amulets. The tree was so huge, and its branches so thick with leaves, that its shade was said to be like night itself. It was considered sacred to Proserpine, Nox, Diana, and all Cthonic deities. The walnut witches were said to have been a very powerful society of witches. It was through their dedication that the Old Religion survived intact, during the Inquisition (and afterwards). In 662 AD Romuald, Duke of Benevento, lived in Benevento and was said to have joined in these celebrations at the walnut tree. In Benevento there also lived a man named Barbato. He was a Christian, and later became a Bishop (eventually he was even sainted). Hard times befell Benevento, and the army of the Byzantine Emperor Constans II, was threatening to invade. Barbato went about the town blaming all the troubles of Benevento, on the witches and their religion. After corresponding with Constans, Barbato approached Romuald, and said that he (Barbato) would perform a miracle and save Benevento, if given authority to "cleanse" the town of its "heathen sins". In desperation, Romuald agreed, and sure enough Benevento was not conquered (but it was attacked).
Barbato had the Walnut tree cut down, and converted Romuald to Christianity. One story is told that Barbato had a church built upon the site of the old tree, and another that the tree was seeded in a different place, and still another that the tree grew again in the same spot.
Whatever the case, my mother says that a walnut tree still stands in Benevento, in the Stretto di Barba, near the river. Witches still gather there today in secret. Benevento has long been associated with Witchcraft, and was once the sanctuary of the followers of Aradia, in the 14th Century. In Charles Leland's book ETRUSCAN MAGIC & OCCULT REMEDIES there are several exaggerated (but fun) stories of the good witches of Benevento. Leland also states that the witches of Benevento were very well known for their healing, and for dispensing coins to the poor.
A last note of interest, Strega Liquor is made in Benevento (and has been for quite awhile). If you can find a bottle, check out the label. You'll find a picture of witches and satyrs dancing beneath a tree (walnut I assume <G>).
The Watchers
In the early stellar cults, there were four "royal" stars (known as lords) which were called the Watchers. Each one of these stars "ruled" over one of the four cardinal points. The star Aldebaran, when it marked the Vernal Equinox, held the position of Watcher of the East. Regulus, marking the Summer Solstice, was Watcher of the south. Antares, marking the Autumn Equinox, was the Watcher of the west. Fomalhaut, marking the Winter Solstice, was Watcher of the north. Towers were constructed, bearing the symbols of these Watchers, for the purpose of evocation. During the "rites of calling" symbolic gestures were given and the names of the Watchers were called out. In the stellar mythos, the Watchers themselves were deities who guard the Heavens and the Earth. Their nature (and "rank") was altered by the successive Lunar and Solar cults, which replaced the Stellar Cults. Eventually the Greeks reduced them to Gods of the four winds, and the Christians made them principalities of the air. Their connection with the stars was vaguely preserved among the populace, in the concept of Angels.
In the Italian system, these ancient Beings are called the Grigori. They are the Guardians of the "doorways" between the physical plane and that which is beyond. In Italian witchlore, the stars were thought to be the campfires of the legions of the Watchers (there were other stellar associations as well). In the 16th Century, the French theologian Sinistrari spoke of Beings existing between "men and angels". He called them demons, and associated them with the Elemental natures of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. This, however, was not a new concept, but was taught by certain Gnostic sects in the early days of Christianity. In the Old Testament (Daniel 4: 13-17) there is reference to the Irin, or Watcher, which appear to be an order of angels. In his book DICTIONARY OF ANGELS, Gustav Davidson lists the Watchers as a high order of angels, known also as the Grigori. In Rabbinic lore, the "good" Watchers dwell in the 5th Heaven, and the "evil" Watchers dwell in the 3rd.
In Aridian lore, the Watchers guard our circle and watch over us. They assist us in our spiritual growth, and "escort" us to the next realm, when we cross from physical life. We acknowledge them as Guardians of the entrances and exists, to and from the worlds which connect with the physical plane. We also know them as the Keepers of the Ancient Wisdom, and guardians of the Art. They are Clan Guardian spirits, known as The Old Ones. They are also pre-Christian and pre-Gardnerian.
The Lare
In the Old Religion of Italy there are certain spirits called the Lare (pronounced Lar-ray), who are both protectors and preservers. In Roman mythology, they were house spirits/family spirits. Upon the home's hearth, a small Lare "house" (or chapel) was placed. Each one had a receptacle for offerings, which consisted of wine, honey, milk and flowers (or grain). The focal point of a Family is their home, and in olden times the focal point of the home was the hearth (the Latin word "focus", means hearth). The hearth held the fire which provided heat, and served to cook the meals. A prayer was said to the Lare every morning, and special offerings were made at family celebrations.
These spirits were originally gods of the cultivated fields and were worshipped at the crossroads. In early Etruscan times, they were called Lasa. In Tuscany today, the word lasa refers to spirits. The Lare cult maintains a strong family connection, and is largely responsible for the existence of hereditary Italian witch families. Generation after generation has remembered and honored the previous ones, passing on the ancient traditions of the Old Religion. This is why we can trace our heritage back, and recall the family lines. Today, Aridians still place a Lare house in their home, and give offerings. At birthdays, candles are lit on the shrine for the family member, and also when they die. At certain seasonal rites, the family names are recalled, back down the family lines. Stories are retold and so on. It is really quite beautiful, and very primitive. It is our culture and our heritage which binds us together. Sadly, this is something which modern culture does not really understand, or appreciate.
FROM: TONY MARCANO
It should also be noted that the prayers said at the lararium differed on the kalends, nones, and ides. Also, the lares were worshipped along with the penates, Vesta, and the genius (pronounced ghen-yoos). Roman traditions accepted/tolerated many gods, which allowed for the inclusion of a "wiccan" pantheon but very often these were very different traditions shared within the same household. The MTR (traditional Romans) in Italy as a tradition/organization does not embrace stregeria (although some of them may also be practicing witches) but rather view themselves as Roman Pagans, members of the collegium and curia, and in some cases flamines.
FROM: RAVEN GRIMASSI
Please understand that I am not talking about Roman Religion here. I am talking about my Tradition, which has its roots in ancient Italy. Our people lived under Roman rule perhaps, but did not follow the classic Roman Religion. We are Strega and are different from classic Roman Tradition. I am not leaving things out here, I'm speaking of the Ways of my Clan. Certainly there were other things going on in Italy concurrently with us (but different from us). Thanks for adding your knowledge to this post, but I simply wish to keep things clear (and not to contradict you).
Diana & Rex Nemorensis
There is a very interesting myth about the worship of Diana, which I would like to share here. Long ago, in the Alban hills, there came a runaway slave who was favored by the Goddess Diana. Because She had freed him, he desired to worship Her, and She gave him sanctuary. One day Diana appeared to him beneath a large tree which stood in the center of a clearing, within a large grove. Then just after sunset She proclaimed Her love for him, but at the same time demanded that he prove himself worthy of Her favors. So Diana brought before him a mighty warrior, who was Guardian of the Grove. Then She told the runaway slave to challenge the Guardian. But the Guardian would not accept the challenge, unless the former slave could prove his strength and courage. So the runaway climbed the great tree, and broke off a large branch with his hands. The branch was so strong that no ordinary man could break it. So the Guardian accepted the challenge, and the two battled for the favor of Diana. The Guardian was defeated and met his end at the hands of the runaway slave. Then Diana touched his shoulders, placed a wreath upon his head, and said "Thou art Rex Nemorensis (King of the Woods)". This is one of the mystery texts, and deals with parts of our inner self. Look at the characters in the Myth as yourself, and at Diana as Enlightenment.
Now, back to the note. In central Italy lies the lake once known as Lacus Nemorensis. This lake was also known as the Speculum Dianae (Mirror of Diana). Here on the northeast shore of this ancient lake, once stood the temple of Diana. Here too was the sacred grove of Diana. In ancient times the followers of Diana gathered at the Temple to give worship, and to be healed by the water, which was said to flow into a pool within the Temple. At Nemi, in the Alban Hills, Diana was worshipped in many forms. At the new moon She was the chaste Huntress and the crescent moon was her bow. In this aspect She was seen as the eternal virgin, free from the need for men. At the time of the full moon, Diana was the Enchantress, the Queen of Magic. At the dark of the moon Diana was vengeful, secretive, and somewhat dangerous. As the chaste, Her name was pronounced Dye-anna. As the Queen it was pronounced Dea-nah, and at dark of moon it was pronounced Dee-anna. These are essentially the same aspects commonly referred to as Maiden, Mother, Crone.
Another term for Rex Nemorensis, was the Hooded One. It is interesting, because a cult formed in the Groves of Nemi around this theme, and was comprised of outlaws and runaway slaves from Rome.
There is a similarity between this mythos, and the Robin Hood legend. Especially when you consider that runaway slaves and outlaws from Rome gathered in the forests of Nemi. The Hooded One was a title for the representative of the God (usually referred to as Kern). This person was the cult leader, and held the title of either the Hooded One, or Rex Nemorensis. The major difference probably lies in the fact that the Hooded One could be either a male or a female. But Rex Nemorensis was always a male. Legend says that the Hood helped to conceal the gender. The outlaws of the Forest in Nemi were more of a religious cult, and lived more off than the land, than off the rich (although an occasional ambush here or there was not out of the question).
Diana And Dianus
The most common names found associated with The Old Religion, in Italy, are Diana & Dianus. Dianus is the nature god, associated with the woods, herds, fertility, and so on. He was present in the rites of Diana at the sacred grove of Nemi. He is also known as verbius, and is linked to the title Rex Nemorensis. Oaks were sacred to Dianus, which were present in the groves at Nemi. It seems likely that, in time, he was also associated with the god Janus. Janus was a god of doorways/portals (and of beginnings in general). In this aspect, Janus was a guardian who kept non-initiates away from the Mystery Traditions. He carried a whip and a rod, which could usher in, or drive away. Dianus, as the guardian Rex Nemorensis, is easily linked to Janus, in this aspect. In the Aridian Tradition, Diana and Dianus would be two parts of the Divine One Great Spirit. Usually, Dianus is visualized as a stag god, or a man with antlers. He can also be associated with the forest god, known as Kern (no, Kern, not Herne...different land, similar story).
Dianus is the consort of Diana, even in Her chaste aspect. Here they are more like brother and sister. In other aspects they are lovers, and so on. Historical references to the cult of Diana and Dianus (other than Classical Age) appear as early as the 4th Century AD
Jana is one of the names we Aridians use for the Goddess (the others are Tana & Fana). The Goddess Jana is the Moon Goddess of the Janarric Clan. In Naples, the term Janarra was once used as the word for witch (instead of Strega). The Janarra are the keepers of the Lunar mysteries, in the Triad Traditions. Sometimes they are called the Sea Witches, because they once practiced along the coastal regions, and near the Bay of Naples.
In Italy there are three Clans, known as the Triad. The first is called the Fanarra, second is the Janarra, and third is the Tanarra. The Fanarra are the "keepers of the earth mysteries", the Janarra are "keepers of the Lunar mysteries", and the Tanarra are the "keepers of the stellar mysteries". Originally they were one Clan, comprised of the covens which Aradia had established in the 14th Century. When the Inquisition began murdering witches, the Clan split up into their respective mystery traditions, in order to preserve at least one of the old Mystery Teachings. As the Fates would have it, however, all three survived. The Aridian Tradition is a rejoining of the three, back into the original state (as practiced in the time of Aradia). Each leader of a Clan, has a working knowledge of the two other Clans. Each Clan has a different aspect of Deity, for their Focus.
Fanus is the basic earth connection of the God. He is lord of the mysteries of the earth. He is primal, and one of the first awakenings of Divine Consciousness (in the Physical Plane). Janus is the awakening of the Divine Consciousness to the Solar System (if you will). He is the connection to the Sun and other planetary influences. Tanus is the awakening of Divine Consciousness to the Universe. He is the connection to higher Divinity, to the Source of All Things. So, actually they are the same Deity, but seen in various aspects (more properly, they are symbols of the stages through which Human Understanding has marked its contact with Divinity). Dianus is Fanus in a higher aspect. Fanus is more like Pan, while Dianus is more like Kern (stag horned god of the forests of Nemi). The double faces of Janus symbolize (among other things) the stage of a God who is between its base earth aspect, and its higher Divine aspect. These gods may also be thought of as the stages of Child, Adolescent, and Adult (although I would never say that to their face...nor neither face of Janus). Another illustration might help: Fanus is seen with animal horns, while Janus is seen wearing a crown, and Tanus is visualized with a blue flame forming a sort of "halo" around his head. Thus, you have the Nature made (horns), Human made (crown), and Divine made (light) concepts of Deity.
Just a bit of an extension from my first reply (and a bit less emotional I hope). Frazer was not presenting a "Tradition" or a "System". He was simply speaking of the ancient practices and concepts of The Old Religion (and other things as well). You asked about our differences and likenesses. We share the common knowledge of Diana at Nemi, and some aspects of Her cult there. Rex Nemorensis is simply another aspect of what was once practiced at Nemi. In my Tradition there is no office of this title, and his legend is only one of the Mystery Teaching concepts, which we have retained over time. Legend says that Aradia (the Holy Strega) established a camp in the ruins of Diana's Temple, there at Nemi. I suppose that might be considered a connection somehow. Actually, Aradia was a Tuscan Witch and taught the Old Religion as a whole (not simply as practiced at Nemi). Frazer doesn't go into much depth concerning the Witch Cult in Italy, so I don't know what else to compare it to. I am NOT giving a history of my Tradition here, but my Tradition is a part of what I am posting.
In Leland's book, Aradia is the Daughter of Diana & Lucifer. In the mythos of the Aridian Tradition, Aradia is quite human (and is not the actual "daughter" of Diana). Now, Diana does have three aspects, just as Dianus has. She is Fana, Jana, and Tana just as he is Fanus, Janus, and Tanus. How this all came about, goes back to the Coven which Aradia had founded in the 14th Century . In time as this coven divided and established other covens, the Inquisition arose (by the way, in Italian the word for coven is boschetto - pronounced boss-kett-oh - and means a grove). Hoping to keep the mysteries alive, they established three Clans. Each Clan was a "Keeper" of one of the mystery traditions. These were the Earth, Lunar, and Stellar Mysteries. Each Clan then named the Deities in accordance with their mystery system. That is how Diana and Dianus came to be known by these many names. It is customary in some Traditions/Systems to have an "inner court" name for the God & Goddess. A name not known to any non-initiates. So, some groups will chose (or create) a secret name, which only they will use when addressing Deity.
For those who both believe, and do not believe, in the antiquity/survival of The Old Religion, I offer the following: In 30 BC, the Roman Poet Horace wrote his work called the Epodes of Horace. In part, they deal with a dialogue between he and an Italian witch named Canidia. In Epode 5, he associates Diana & Proserpina with witches in a mystery Cult. In Epode 17, he names these goddesses as patron goddesses of Witchcraft, and states that witches use a book called Libros Carminum, by which they "call down the moon" and make philtres and evoke spirits. Other Roman writers of the period, support this basic theme in their writings (such as Lucan and Ovid). From this we can conclude, that the association of witches with Diana, was generally accepted in Italy (circa 30 BC). Bear in mind that this is being written about in pre-Christian times, and not in the 1950's of Gerald Gardner. In note titled "The Society of Diana", I will show that this cult continued on (in Historical documentation) through the 19th Century.
EPODE 5 : "...Night and Diana, who command silence when secret mysteries are performed, now aid me: now turn your vengeance and influence against my enemies' house..."
EPODE 17: (to canidia) "Now already I yield to your mighty art, and suppliant beseech you by the realms of Proserpine, and by the powers of Diana, not to be provoked, and by your books of enchantments that are able to call down the fixed stars from heaven, Canidia, at length spare your magic words, and turn backward your swift wheel..."
(Canidia replies)
"...must I, who can move waxen images and call down the moon from the sky by my spells, who can raise the vaporous dead, and mix a draught of love lament the effect of my art, availing nothing upon you ?"
The Society Of Diana
The historical documentation which I present here, is drawn from the research notes and books of, Professor Carlo Ginzburg (Professor of Italian Renaissance Studies at Univ. of California in Los Angeles), Professor Ernesto de Martino (Prof. of the History of Religions at Cagliari Univ., Italy), Professor Cardini (Prof. of History at the Univ. of Florence), and Julio Baroja (Anthropologist)
In his book, The World of Witches, Julio Baroja writes of southern Europe "There seems to have been a flourishing cult of Diana among European country people in the 5th & 6th Centuries, and she was generally looked upon as a Goddess of the woods and fields, except by those trying to root out the cult, who thought she was a devil". In the authors notes, for chapter 4, he adds that the cult also worshipped a male deity called Dianum. In 906 AD, Regino of Prum wrote in his instructions to the Bishops of the Kingdoms of Italy, concerning this cult. Here he states "...they ride at night on certain beasts with Diana, goddess of the pagans, and a great multitude of women, that they cover great distances in the silence of the deepest night, that they obey the orders of the goddess...by speaking of their visions (they) gain new followers for the Society of Diana..."
The following Chronology will demonstrate the continuation of this "Society of Diana" up through the centuries to modern times.
1006 AD: 19th book of the Decretum (entitled Corrector) associates the worship of Diana with the common pagan folk.
1280 AD: Diocesan Council of Conserans associates the Witch Cult with the worship of a Pagan Goddess
1310 AD: Council of Trier associates witches with the goddess Diana (and Herodias)
1313 AD: Giovanni de Matociis writes in his Historiae Imperiales, that many lay people believe in a nocturnal society headed by a queen they call Diana
1390 AD: A woman was tried by the Milanese Inquisition for belonging to the "Society of Diana", she confessed to worshipping the "goddess of Night" and stated that "Diana" bestowed blessings on her
1457 AD: 3 women tried in Bressanone, confess that they belonged to the "Society of Diana" (as recorded by Nicholas of Cusa).
1526 AD: Judge Paulus Grillandus writes of witches in the town of Benevento who worship a goddess at the site of an old walnut tree.
1576 AD: Bartolo Spina writes in his Quaestico de Strigibus. listing info gathered from confessions, that witches gather at night to worship "Diana", and have dealings with night spirits.
1647 AD: Peter Pipernus writes in his De Nuce Maga Beneventana & De Effectibus Magicis, of a women named Violanta who confessed to worshipping Diana at the site of an old walnut tree in the town of Benevento.
1749 AD: Girolamo Tartarotti associates the Witch Cult with the ancient cult of Diana, in his book Del Congresso Nottorno Delle Lammie.
1890 AD: Author Charles Leland associates the Witch Cult with the goddess Diana, as a survival of the ancient ways, in his book Etruscan Magic & Occult Remedies.
1894 AD: Lady Vere de Vere, after investigating witchcraft as it then existed in the Italian Tyrol region, wrote an article in La Rivista of Rome (June 1894) stating that "...the Community of Italian Witches is regulated by laws, traditions, and customs of the most secret kind, possessing special recipes for sorcery."
1895 AD: Professor Milani (Etruscan Scholar & Director of Archaeological Museum in Florence) states that various elements of ancient Etruscan occultism have been "marvelously preserved" in the "Italian Witch Tradition." Professor Milani was familiar with the works of both Lady Vere de Vere and Charles Leland.
This theme continues through various authors (T.C. Lethbridge, Carlo Ginzburg, Doreen Valiente) into the 1900's and current era. Books written since 1950's are common enough and probably do not need listing here.
Source material for Chronology:
Ecstasies-deciphering the witches Sabbath
Night Battles-witchcraft and agrarian cults (by Ginzburg)
Etruscan Magic & Occult Remedies, Legends of Florence,
Aradia; gospel of the witches (by Charles Leland).
The World of Witches, by Julio Baroja.
A Prayer To Diana
" Great Diana, Goddess, hear my words of adoration. Hear my voice when I speak your praises. Hear my chanting as it rises upon the smoke of the incense I offer you. See me when I reach up to you; when the Full Moon shines upon me give me your blessings. Oh Diana, teach me your ancient mysteries, ancient rites of invocation which the Holy Strega spoke of, for I believe the Strega's story: when she spoke of your shining glory, when she told us to entreat you, told us when we seek for Knowledge to seek and find you above all others. Give me wisdom, Diana, and bind my oppressors. Grant me the Ancient Knowledge, and speak to my inner spirit, teaching me all the Holy Mysteries. I believe your ancient promise, the promise to all the ancient Clan, that we who seek your Holy Presence will receive of your Wisdom. Diana, think yet even for a moment, upon one who calls upon your name".
I have always loved this old prayer. Once saw a very similar version of it in a book called The Grimoire of Lady Sheba. Always wondered where she came by it. Her version is more poetic, and has all the nice "Thee" and "Thou" stuff. I like both versions, because of the mention of The Holy Strega (but I am partial to my Family one).
FROM: HELEN TYLER
My compliments & thanks to you for your posts on the Old Ways, Raven. I am a Solitary practitioner of the Hereditary/Traditional Way & started on the Path in the 30's at my Grandmother's knee (turned 66 last week & am still on the Path - learning more & more every day!). Since you mentioned Lady Sheba's Prayer in your post, thought everyone might like to see it. She does not mention her source, then again, she does not give the source on many of her writings.
Prayer to Diana
O My Goddess, Diana, hear my song of adoration. Hear my voice when I sing Thy praises. Hear my songs as they rise heavenward, when the Full Moon, brightly shining, fills the heavens with Thy beauty. O my beautiful Moon Goddess, hear me as I stand before Thee. See me when I reach toward heaven, when my arms reach upward toward Thee. When the Full Moon shines upon me, give me Thy blessings, O Diana. Teach me of Thine ancient mysteries, ancient rites of invocation that the Holy Strega spoke of, for I believe the Strega's story: when she spoke of Thy shining glory, when she told us to entreat Thee, told us when we seek for knowledge to seek and find Thee above all others. Give us wisdom, O Diana: how to bind our oppressors, how to cure the sick among us. Teach me, O Diana. Give me Thy blessings, O Great Moon Goddess. Shield me from my oppressors. Receive me as your daughter, Diana. Receive me, though I am earth-bound. Grant me ancient Wiccan knowledge. When my body lies resting nightly, speak unto my inner spirit; teach me all Thy holy mysteries. I believe Thine ancient promise, Thy promise unto the ancient Wicca that we who seek Thy holy presence will receive Thy Wisdom. Now the Full Moon shines upon me. Hear me! I stand before Thee! Grant me wisdom! O Diana! Shield me from my oppressors! Teach me Thine holy mysteries! I sing Thy praises unto the heavens. Let Thy glory shine about me. Bless us, O gracious Queen of Heaven. Descend Thou among us; Descend and conquer, Gracious Goddess.
Taken from The Witches Workbook: The Magick Grimoire of Lady Sheba, by Jessie Wicker Bell, pub. Kensington Pub. Co., 1975
The Legend Of Aradia
In 1508 AD the Italian Inquisitor Bernardo Rategno (having studied witch trial records preserved in the archives of the Inquisition at Como) wrote a text called the Tractatus de Strigibus. In this text he states that the " witches sect" had begun to expand 150 years earlier. This would place the "expansion" about 1350 (14th Century Italy). What caused this to happen ? Well, the answer may be found in the old legend called The Legend of the Beautiful Pilgrim. This legend can be found in author Charles Leland's notes for his book: Aradia, gospel of the witches.
According to this story, there once was a young woman from the town of Volterra who "traveled far and wide, teaching and preaching the religion of old times, the religion of Diana, the Queen of the Fairies and of the Moon, the Goddess of the poor and the oppressed". Leland goes on to say "And the fame of her wisdom and beauty went forth over all the land, and people worshipped her, calling her La Bella Pellegrina (the Beautiful Pilgrim). In the Aridian Tradition we refer to Aradia as The Holy Strega (pronounced Stray-gah, meaning witch) and we honor her memory. We do not worship her.
According to our teachings, Aradia formed covens (called groves) in central Italy during the 14th Century. She taught the Old Religion of Nature, and of Magic, but above all she taught a Spirituality. Beyond this she gave hope to peasants whose lives were made miserable, in service to the wealthy class. She taught them personal power, and personal value, in an Age when the Church taught shame and sin, and servitude. Aradia returned their beautiful pagan heritage to them, a heritage which was preserved in secret by courageous Priests and Priestesses of The Old Religion. Aradia taught harmony with Nature, and directed her followers to merge with Nature through seasonal rites, and ritual observation of the Full Moon (times of planetary power).
Charles Leland's version of Aradia, is not the original version. It has little to do with the Aradia I have addressed here. His work is a Christianized view of Aradia, and does not reflect the beliefs, or practices, of Hereditary Italian Witches. So, if you chose to read his book, bear in mind that he and I are NOT speaking of the same Aradia. His account of the Legend given here, is the only thing I can agree with in his book. The rest of his book does not show Aradia in a positive light.
The Gifts Of Aradia
In the 14th Century, Aradia taught that certain powers could be obtained through following The Old Religion. Aradia called them "gifts" because she stressed that these powers were side benefits of adhering to the Old Ways, and not the reason for becoming a witch. These gifts are commonly referred to, today, as the traditional powers of Witchcraft.
To bring success in matters of love
To bless and consecrate
To speak with spirits
To know of Hidden Things
To call forth spirits
To know Secret Signs
To possess the Knowledge of changing forms
To possess the Knowledge of Divination
To know secret signs
To cure disease
To bring forth beauty
To have influence over wild beasts
To know the secrets of the hands
Aradia taught that a witch must observe the Seasonal Rites and the time of the Full Moon, in order to keep these powers.
The Beautiful Pilgrim
In 1508 AD, the Italian Inquisitor Bernardo Rategno (having studied witch trial records preserved in the archives of the Inquisition at Como) wrote a text called the Tractatus de Strigibus. In this text he states that the "witches sect" had begun to expand rapidly 150 years earlier. This would place the "expansion" in the mid 1300's. What caused this to happen ? The answer may lay hidden in the Legend of La Bella Pellegrina (the beautiful Pilgrim). This legend appears in Charles Leland's research material (1887), and was even then considered a very old legend. According to this story, there was a young woman from the town of Volterra, who "traveled far and wide, teaching and preaching the religion of old times, the religion of Diana, the Queen of the Fairies and of the Moon, Goddess of the poor and the oppressed". Leland goes on to say "and the fame of her wisdom and beauty went forth over all the land, and people worshipped her, calling her The Beautiful Pilgrim". This legend appears in his book ARADIA, GOSPEL OF THE WITCHES. The book itself is not really very good, but does contain some interesting bits of Lore. In my Tradition we do have the legend of Aradia, but she differs from the Aradia presented in Leland's book (not from this legend, but from his portrayal of her character). In my Tradition, Aradia was a great teacher who brought about a "revival" of The Old Religion, in 14th Century Italy. We honor her memory, but we do not worship her. We call her The Holy Strega . Strega (pronounced stray-gah) is the Italian word for Witch. Aradia taught that certain "powers" would be gained through the practice of The Old Religion, if one was truly dedicated. These are the "traditional" powers of which she spoke:
To bring success in love
to bless and consecrate
to speak with spirits
to know of hidden things
to call forth spirits
to know the voice of the wind
to possess the knowledge of changing forms
to possess the knowledge of divination
to know secret signs
to cure disease
to bring forth beauty
to have influence over wild beasts
to know the secrets of the hand
In my tradition it is that taught we are descended from those covens which Aradia established in the 14th Century.
Celebrations Of The Year
In Italy, witches do not use the word Sabbat for their seasonal rites. The Italian word is Treguenda (pronounced tray-gwen-dah) and is similar in meaning to Sabbat. Webster's dictionary lists Sabbat as old French for Sabbath (old English as well). The word Sabbatical is shown to mean "of or suited to the Sabbath" and "a period of rest that occurs in regular cycles". The word Treguenda has as its root the word Tregua, which means "a respite, or a truce". It is interesting to note that "Tregua" (tray-gwah) is also slang for the Full Moon Ceremony. The actual word for the Full Moon Ceremony is Veglione (pronounced Vay-yoe-nay), and literally means to dance all night. Veglione is also the name of a popular folk dance in Italy.
In early times the followers of The Old Religion were farmers and craftsmen. Their lives were largely spent in toil. Their Religion provided times in which they could set aside their work, and enjoy a social and spiritual celebration. These Festivals were indeed "respites" or "periods of rest occurring in regular cycles".
In The Aridian Tradition there are 8 Treguendas, four major and four minor. The major rites occur in October, February, May and August. These are the Spiritual Festivals which are considered of greater importance. The minor festivals occur on the Spring & Autumn Equinox, and on the Summer & Winter Solstice. These are the Earth Festivals, and are seasonal/agricultural in nature. The Mythos of the Old Religion runs through each of these Celebrations. They are named as follows:
Shadowfest (La Festa dell' Ombra)
Winter Solstice (La Festa dell' Inverno)
Lupercus (Festa di Lupercus)
Spring Equinox (Equinozio della Primavera)
Tana's Day (La giornata di Tana)
Summer Solstice (La Festa dell' Estate)
Cornucopia (La Festa di Cornucopia)
Autumn Equinox (Equinozio di Autunno)
A common term for the 8 rites is the "Wheel". It is thought of as a Spinning-wheel, turning and weaving the patterns of Life. On the physical level it is symbolic of the changing seasons. On the spiritual level it is symbolic of the "seasons of the soul". The Mythos which is an integral part of each rite, symbolizes the Journey of the Soul through a variety of Existences. In the Mystery Teachings of the Wheel, we discover that we are the characters in the Myth. Everything is symbolic within each myth, and represents various aspects of the encounters facing a soul as it passes from life to life. Through a study of the Mythos, and routine participation in each Treguenda, one can gain spiritual enlightenment.
The mythos within the Full Moon Ceremony, weaves its way through each Treguenda, and completes the spiritual vision. It is interesting to note that the ancient teachings connect the light of the Moon, to passages and reincarnations of the Soul.
FROM: MINNIE BAXTER
Merry Meet Raven, To make sure we are talking or thinking about the same thing let me give you some information:
Aradia (Strega Witch) was born in Volterra, Italy, on August 13, 1313. In her early teens (10-12 yrs.) she moved with her parents to the Alban hills near the lake now known as Nemi. This region not far from Rome. She experienced something in the unexplained area, a mystery to herself. This was the beginning of her promoting the old religion that was taught to her by her aunt.
On the subject of her "mystery". A voice using telepathy spoke to her telling her to look upwards. She gazed upwards and saw the skies began to darken (for there was a Moon Shadow) and she understood. This changed how she perceived life. Is this the clan of people you are saying is your relatives? If so lets talk about "The Moon Shadow" she saw in the sky. Are you Raven under the direction of the council of the Third Clan?
FROM: RAVEN GRIMASSI
The titles of the books which I have written are: (listed only because someone asked)
The Book of Ways (Volumes 1 & 2) 1981 & 1982
The Book of the Holy Strega 1981
The Teachings of the Holy Strega (1991 reprint, new Intro)
Whispers, teachings of the Old Religion of Italy 1991
I have also just completed a booklet titled : The Aridian System, an introduction to Italian Witchcraft.
These are the only books available at this time, on the Aridian Tradition. I am currently writing a book of rituals and magic, which I will be submitting to a couple of Publishers soon.
We use some Latin, as preserved from the earlier material. Most of the invocations are done in Italian, but we speak English for the majority of the ritual gathering. We also have another language from the oldest material, it does not have a name, but we refer to it as "the tongue of the Moon". Most likely related to ancient Etruscan, and may have a connection to Enochian as well. It only appears in a few of the old rituals. Mine is the only book in the Family which contains English (My mothers was mostly Italian, Latin and Tongue of the Moon).
You asked about having to be of Italian blood, to best work this System. I do not require it, but the old family members do have a hang-up about "being of the blood". I have initiated many non-Italians, and they do quite well in the System. I think that magically speaking, practicing a System to which you have genetic roots, does bring about a stronger current response. But that is simply my experience, and may not be true for everyone. So my answer is no, you do not need to be Italian in the Aridian System.
Also forgot to reply to your question about being related to those early clans. The answer is yes (at least that's what the family lore has to say). I come from a very old line of witches in the Naples area of Italy. We trace our Tradition back to the 14th Century where it connects with the Alban Hills region of Nemi (being descended from those covens which The Holy Strega founded at that time). She, herself, was a Tuscan witch and taught her Tradition which went back to pre-Christian times. So, in that respect, I say that my ancestors invented the worship of Diana at Nemi.
Yes, my friend, I am the Raven to whom you refer. You have obviously read (or heard of) one of my books. Perhaps you have read "The Book of the Holy Strega", or "The teachings of the Holy Strega".
You asked about the "Moon Shadow" mentioned in my book. Well, there are two opinions of what may have happened there. One is that a Solar eclipse had taken place, another that something of an inner experience had manifested. No one in any of the Triad Clans can say for sure. Whatever happened, Aradia took it as a divine sign for the mission she then undertook. Hereditary witches (at least of my family line in Italy) have kept a written book. Many Hereditary Clans were connected to Nobility during the Middle Ages. This gave them not only sanctuary, but education in reading and writing. Many Italian Courts of Royalty kept astrologers and local wisemen/ wisewomen. The persecution of witches in Italy began about 100 years later than anywhere else in Europe, and was almost entirely focused on organized group practices. The local village witch was usually tolerated because of his/her healing abilities, and so forth. My family line goes back five generations to the Tavani Family, who were Nobility of the Kingdom of Naples. According to our Elders, early witches kept a runic script on animal hide. In time this evolved to parchment, and so on. The runic script still survives, but has been replaced by the common Arabic alphabet (at least in the case of non-magical info).
Sea Spells
Witches have long used the powers and forces within the sea, for the purpose of magic. The Sea is so deeply connected to the cycles of the Moon, that the aspect of Sea Magic cannot be overlooked. Janarric witches, in the central coastal region of Italy, long ago devised a system of symbols which they used in the casting of spells. These symbols were placed upon sea shells, in a circular manner around the edge of the shell. The shell was then set near the water, at the appropriate Tide (lunar phase), so that the Sea Powers would receive the spell, and grant it success.
Many times, offerings were left upon the shore, for the deities, to invoke Their favor. These offerings included white flowers, pearls, white pebbles, etc. I cannot reproduce the old symbols here, but any symbolic symbol which reflects your wish should work:
The Spell of the Shell
To perform this spell, you must find a suitable shell in shallow water. Take the shell and dry it thoroughly. Next, place a symbol of your desire upon the surface of the shell. The symbol must be made with a substance which will easily wash off in water. Then, place the shell upon the shore, so that the Tide will bring waves across the shell. Take care to note the phase of the Moon (waxing moon for the gain of something, waning for the dissolving of something). When the shell is in place, draw a triangle in the sand, enclosing the shell completely. The symbol upon the shell must be facing upwards (toward the Moon). Meaningful words, or phrases, may be placed upon the shell also, or simply written in the sand (inside the triangle).
Finally, give the words of enchantment: (toward the moon)
"Goddess of Moon, Earth, and the Sea,
each wish in Thy name must come to be.
Powers and Forces which Tides do make,
now summon Thy waves, my spell to take "
Source and Full Article
http://www.paganlibrary.com/reference/on_hereditary_italian_witchcraft.php
