Pictish folk magic refers to the traditional magical beliefs and practices of the Picts, an ancient Celtic people who lived in what is now Scotland. The Picts had a unique culture and language, and their magical practices were an important part of their society. One of the main aspects of Pictish folk magic was the belief in the power of symbols and symbolism. The Picts used a variety of symbols, known as Pictish symbols, to represent various concepts and ideas. These symbols were often carved into stones and other objects, and were believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits or bring luck and protection. The Picts also had a belief in the power of the natural world and the spirits that dwelled within it.
Alexandrian Wicca Tradition: – Alexandrian Witchcraft, or Alexandrian Wicca began in the 1960s, founded by Alexander Saunders and his wife. This magical tradition has similarities to Gardnerian and remains a well-recognized Wiccan path.
Pictish Rune witches are accorded high respect by most people because they use the tools of the gods, and a person who does so is not one to trifle with. A variety of remaining historical items include intricate silver chain link bracelets, intricately carved metallic animal heads, gilded brooches, patterned standing stones and beautiful tableware.
The Picts also had a belief in the power of the natural world and the spirits that dwelled within it. They believed that certain locations, such as rivers, hills, and trees, were inhabited by spirits that could be invoked for protection or assistance. They also believed in the power of herbs and plants, and would use them in various magical rituals and spells.
Pictish folk magic
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Pictish Rune Magic
Origins
The Picts of northern Britain and Scotland developed the method of creating totemic contracts with nature spirits long before the Celtic, Roman, and Saxon invasions of the isles. This spell developed out of the Picts' traditional tribal practice of drawing pictures of animals on themselves to gain the abilities of those animals in battle.
Historical records describe the ancient Picts, as "the blue people," a people who adorned their bodies with blue tattoos and blue body art. Mid first century BC Roman manuscripts report, "All the Britons dye their bodies with woad, which produces a blue colour, and this gives them a more terrifying appearance in battle." Culturally and mystically significant, terrifying in battle, exotically fierce, evocatively primal, both men and women decorated their bodies with Woad body art, bringing into magical manifestation access to deep sexual power in all areas of Celtic life. The Celts left in the minds of the classical peoples of ancient times an admiration for and terror of the spirited heroism possessed by the Celts. Ancient historians wrote of their respect of the Picts for their quick intellect and imagination, and these traits, coupled with the raw primal power at their disposal, made the Picts a fearsome people in the ancient world.
Mechanics
The basic idea of Pictish Runes is to decorate your body with designs which seem appropriate to the Totemic spirit to be called, then summon the spirit and make a deal with it to augment or protect you. These designs are called runes. The "appropriate" part is important. The rune chosen does not have to have deep mystical significance, but for the spell to work, the rune does need to "feel right" to you. Once the runes are drawn, they will act as a focus for the spell. A Pictish Totemic spirit is then called, and once it arrives, you must cut a deal with it. You ask the spirit to provide you with what extra abilities or protections that you want, and in return, you offer to perform some sort of sacrifice for it. This process is the creating of a totemic alliance between you and the spirit.
In clans and covens where rune magic exists, rune diviners are not solitary but instead take an active hand in the affairs of clan and coven workings. They function as advisors or wisdom keepers and a rune witch with the right runes could become a very effective leader. Others become shamans and religious leaders, channeling the power of their gods through the runes. Pictish Rune witches are accorded high respect by most people because they use the tools of the gods, and a person who does so is not one to trifle with.
As with any kind of totemic magic, in using the Pictish Runes, the witch may only cast the spells on themselves, and the effects of the spells are limited to augmentation and protection of the witch's own material and astral body. The perk is that the power of the totemic alliance is limited only by the size of the spirit called, not by the caster's personal power
Requirements
To successfully cast any Pictish Rune spell, you must first perform the following procedures:
Cast the spell "Create Pictish Woad" (a Nature, Herbal Remedies spell), or get someone else to make it for you.
Cast the spell "Summon Totemic Spirit" (you have to do this one yourself).
Spell Formula Standards
The runes used should be of Pictish or Celtic origins, knotwork and zoomorphic designs are best. To chose a rune or design that is appropriate, think of the spirit you are calling, and what qualities you wish it to lend you. The Totemic spirits called should ususally, but not necessarily, be related to the animals and plants of the British Isles. The sacrifice offered needs to be something that the animal or plant the spirit is representing would like.
As with any kind of totemic magic, in using the Pictish Runes, the witch may only cast the spells on themselves, and the effects of the spells are limited to augmentation and protection of the witch's own material and astral body. The perk is that the power of the totemic alliance is limited only by the size of the spirit called, not by the caster's personal power
Divination was another important aspect of Pictish folk magic. The Picts would use various methods, such as scrying or casting bones, to gain insight into the future or seek answers to important questions. This was done by interpreting the patterns or symbols revealed in the divination tool. Pictish folk magic was also closely tied to the cycles of nature and the seasons. The Picts celebrated important agricultural events, such as the sowing and harvesting of crops, through rituals and magical practices. These rituals were believed to ensure a successful harvest and bring good fortune for the coming year. Overall, Pictish folk magic was a complex and diverse system of beliefs and practices that played a significant role in the lives of the Picts. The power of symbols, the connection to nature and spirits, divination, and seasonal rituals were all key components of this ancient form of magic..
Reviews for "The Language of Pictish Folk Magic: Interpretation and Translation"
1. Sarah - 2/5
I was really excited to dive into "Pictish folk magic" as I have always been interested in ancient cultures and their mystical beliefs. However, I was left feeling disappointed after reading this book. The author seems more interested in listing out facts and historical information rather than actually delving into the magic itself. It felt like I was reading a dry history textbook rather than a book on folk magic. I would have loved to see more practical examples or even personal anecdotes to bring the subject matter to life. Overall, this book lacked the depth and excitement I was hoping for.
2. John - 1/5
I cannot express how utterly bored I was while reading "Pictish folk magic". The author's writing style is incredibly dull and monotonous, making it difficult to stay engaged with the content. Additionally, the book lacked clear organization, jumping from one topic to another without any smooth transitions. This made it hard to follow and comprehend the information being presented. I also felt that the author's explanations of various rituals and practices were overly complicated and lacking in practicality. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking to learn about Pictish folk magic as it fails to provide an engaging and accessible overview of the subject.
3. Laura - 3/5
While "Pictish folk magic" did provide some interesting historical background on the topic, I found it to be quite dense and difficult to grasp. The author's explanations were often convoluted and overly academic, making it hard to connect with the material. I was hoping for more accessible information and practical guidance, but instead was met with confusing descriptions that left me with more questions than answers. Additionally, the book lacked visual aids or illustrations, which would have greatly enhanced the understanding and immersion into the subject matter. Overall, while I appreciated the historical insights, I feel that this book could have been written in a more engaging and reader-friendly manner.
4. Michael - 2/5
"Pictish folk magic" was a disappointing read for me. The author focuses too much on the historical background and fails to provide concrete examples or practical applications of the magic discussed. It felt like a missed opportunity to truly explore and understand Pictish folk magic. Additionally, the writing style was dry and lacking in passion, making it difficult to stay engaged with the text. For those looking for a comprehensive and practical guide to Pictish folk magic, I would suggest looking elsewhere as this book falls short in delivering an immersive and fulfilling reading experience.