tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2960099072184968062023-12-04T15:43:18.552-08:00ConjureMan Ali's Spiritual BlogConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-67399253969018077372014-11-25T00:56:00.001-08:002014-11-25T00:56:53.926-08:00ConjureMan's Spiritual Practice Closed for Thanksgiving<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We will be closed from 11/27-11/29 for Thanksgiving. I will be traveling and so out of reach until I return back on 11/30. All readings and pending work will be tended to upon my return.<br />
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Happy Holidays!</div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-34657736321702461052014-09-26T12:20:00.000-07:002014-09-26T12:20:33.127-07:00Seership with Saint Cyprian<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOARBDwJWTPuxGYhRvkO4cng0js-nZmWaVRnO9qdH8qeYMohv5GvMOabnFa6fvx8Q_-3EXf2hjBDyPyA6BdVW9QYKjf8IBWNyL1aLccOJxie68yqbCAKULxIYquoFY20se0nqtJoWOW6S/s1600/Saint+Cyprian.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyOARBDwJWTPuxGYhRvkO4cng0js-nZmWaVRnO9qdH8qeYMohv5GvMOabnFa6fvx8Q_-3EXf2hjBDyPyA6BdVW9QYKjf8IBWNyL1aLccOJxie68yqbCAKULxIYquoFY20se0nqtJoWOW6S/s1600/Saint+Cyprian.jpg" height="320" width="252" /></a></div>
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In honor of Saint Cyprian's feast day, I thought I would share a working with him for seership. This is particularly good at developing clairvoyant abilities, or the ability to contact and see spirits. I've also done an interview for <a href="http://lovepotionnumbr9.blogspot.com/2014/09/q-with-conjure-man-on-st-cyprian.html">Coastside Conjure</a> over at her blog on this wonderful saint. Be sure to head over there and <a href="http://lovepotionnumbr9.blogspot.com/2014/09/q-with-conjure-man-on-st-cyprian.html">check it out</a>.<br />
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What you'll need:<br />
<br />
Mugwort<br />
Cup of Water<br />
Florida Water<br />
Small Cauldron or Heatproof bowl<br />
Purple Candle<br />
Altar or place to work<br />
Image of Saint Cyprian<br />
Saint Cyprian's Oil-- I personally recommend Lucky Mojo's Saint Cyprian Oil or Wolf and Goat's<br />
Charcoal and censer.<br />
<br />
First cleanse the surface or altar that you are going to be working with. I personally use an herb bundle made from Basil and Rosemary which I dip into holy water and asperge. You can use whatever you wish. Then set up your altar so you have the image of Saint Cyprian towards the back, his purple candle next to him on the left and the cup of water on the right. Before this set up your censer and charcoal and in front of this your cauldron. The placement should roughly look like a cross with Saint Cyprian at the top, the candle and cup of water for the left and right arms and the censer and cauldron as the long bottom leg.<br />
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Now, light your candle as you call out Saint Cyprian's name nine times. Dip your fingers in the water and lightly anoint the image of Saint Cyprian as you ask for his aid in contacting the world of spirit. Dip your fingers in the water again and use the water to lightly wash your eyelids as you ask for the sight to peer into the realm of spirit.<br />
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Next take your Saint Cyprian oil and anoint the feet and head of the image of Saint Cyprian as you pray silently to him. Then anoint your head at the area between your eyebrows and your chest. Spend a few moments feeling the presence of Saint Cyprian and listening to see if he provides any specific guidance. He may require an additional offering like a glass of wine or have a message for.<br />
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When you are ready, take up your charcoal and light it in the candle. Once it is lit place back in censer and sprinkle your Mugwort on the heated coals. Let the smoke waft up. With your hand lightly draw the smoke towards you and inhale a little bit. You aren't trying to inhale so much that you are coughing, but rather let it touch your nose, smell it, and let the smoke penetrate your spirit.<br />
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The fumes are meant to open up your senses, to induce trance, and help your sight develop. You don't need a lot of it.<br />
<br />
Now take your Florida Water and pour a small amount into the cauldron. You don't want a lot lest you cause an uncontrollable blaze, just a little bit. Light the Florida Water and peer into the flames. Let your mind go completely blank and allow Saint Cyprian to show you the visions you need to see. Some see the images in the flames themselves and others in their mind as their eyes glaze over. Whatever you do, do not force the visions to come. Let them come as they may. It is an exercise in letting go of your senses and allowing Saint Cyprian to guide you.<br />
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Keep watching until the flames die down or the visions end. Thank Saint Cyprian for his assistance. Offer him some more incense as an offering. Then go and write down the images that you saw. Conclude by taking a nice cooling bath made of Coconut Water, Basil, and Rue.<br />
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This technique is great for developing your ability to scry with the assistance of Saint Cyprian. It can help with contacting a specific spirit of your choice. You can place the seal of that spirit under the cauldron, or if it is a spirit of the dead you can add a few bits of their graveyard dirt into the cauldron or their picture below. It can also be used to contact other spirits like angels, or to see the the future. The rite can be altered according to purpose.<br />
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It is important however to spend time after the ritual writing down what you saw, even if you think you can remember it. Write down every detail no matter how trivial as it will reveal itself pertinent in time. Then make sure to take the cleansing bath.<br />
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<br />
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<br /></div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-79460345954481494482014-09-15T18:15:00.000-07:002014-09-15T18:15:22.147-07:00Working with Cyprian and Office Closed from 9/18-9/21<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
ConjureMan's Spiritual Practice will be closed from 9/18-9/21 for ritual matters. We will be back in office the 22nd. Please allow a few days for us to catch up on emails. <br />
<br />
As part of Saint Cyprian's upcoming feast day the Order of Saint Cyprian and I will be working a collective rite aimed at social change and enlightenment. We will also be taking individual names for people who'd like to receive blessings from the ritual. You can email us your name and we shall add it to our public altars.<br />
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Blessings!<br />
ConjureMan Ali</div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-21772159733844809592014-06-17T14:02:00.000-07:002014-06-17T14:02:06.194-07:00Geomancy and Khatt al Raml<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXKymmUfyTpymeFH9_YmR-Ow0RC6a2Iqfwt8Ey1MsBFbFgI3QxZA4jIExfZ-MkEVT9tpHIerbatk9eybQqt0-ZUXfAaCj9Z0lhg8YasKm-UmZIL408rYRrMLjVEhJZxSdeBQbx07HgBGj/s1600/GD-Geomancy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXKymmUfyTpymeFH9_YmR-Ow0RC6a2Iqfwt8Ey1MsBFbFgI3QxZA4jIExfZ-MkEVT9tpHIerbatk9eybQqt0-ZUXfAaCj9Z0lhg8YasKm-UmZIL408rYRrMLjVEhJZxSdeBQbx07HgBGj/s1600/GD-Geomancy.jpg" height="198" width="200" /></a>Thanks to some wonderful modern books like that of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Art-Practice-Geomancy-Divination-Renaissance/dp/1578634318/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1403037568&sr=1-1&keywords=geomancy">John Michael Greer</a>, geomancy has begun to rise in popularity. For a while it was eclipsed in Europe by astrology and the tarot, but it is definitely making a come back. Though it continues to be a relatively small practice, the interest is growing and every day I meet new people who have taken their first steps to becoming geomancers.<br />
<br />
Geomancy is a practice that is very dear to me. Though over the years I have become known as a tarot reader here in the West, I practiced geomancy long before I ever picked up the tarot. Indeed, I didn't start working with the tarot until my teenage years where I was trained in geomancy from a very young age. My practice in geomancy is quite old and along with astrology and dream interpretation is the only form of divination that I am known for in the Middle East. It is an essential part of my practice as a djinn conjurer. When it comes down to it, my business and political clients in the Middle East are only interested in geomancy and astrology. None of them want tarot readings, but all of them want charts cast for business deals, financial decisions, personal matters, and political endeavors. Every single one of my retainer clients are either geomancy clients or astrology clients, or both.<br />
<br />
So what is geomancy? Geomancy is a North African and Arabic form of divination that was originally done by making dots in the sand. A number of dots and lines were marked which gave birth to a set symbols and figures from which a chart was produced. It became associated with astrology and traveled via the Muslims into Europe where it became a highly popular form of divination. Geomancy comes from the Greek, <i>geo mantia</i> meaning "earth divination."<br />
<br />
There are however some differences between European geomancy and its parent tradition, khatt al raml, also known as ilm al raml or simply ramal. Khatt al raml translates to "sand cutting." While over the years, I have become familiar with European geomancy especially through the good works of John Michael Greer and others, my foundation is traditional khatt al raml. I have been asked about the differences between khatt al raml and geomancy for a while and so this post has been a long time coming. I have identified some points which highlight some of the major differences between the two arts, they are in no particular order and I will likely do a part two or more as time permits.<br />
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Though I am highlighting some of the differences between the two arts and while khatt al raml is the parent of geomancy, I am not making claims of superiority or that one is better than the other. Both are wonderful methods of divination with much in common. The differences however are there and worth noting:<br />
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<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is a living tradition</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Geomancy mostly died
out and was eclipsed in Europe. While I am sure some pockets of geomancy survived,
much of the modern interest in geomancy reconstructs the tradition from old
texts. Khatt al raml on the other hand has been continuously practiced and the
traditional way of learning is mouth-to-ear from master to student. There are books on khatt al raml but the primary means of transmission is learning from master to student. It is a living tradition with living cultural bearers. </span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is practiced only by authorized practitioners</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. In order to practice khatt al raml you must
receive authorization to do so, which speaks to its nature as passed down from
master to student. This involves being part of an established lineage, spending
time in training, then receiving an <i>ijaza</i>
which permits you to practice the art. In a way it is initiatory as there
are rites and tests that have to be done. Now these do vary from lineage to
lineage. For example, in most lineages you have to pass a specific set of tests
in order to demonstrate your skill and knowledge of ilm al raml. In my lineage
we have the test of 99 where we have to demonstrate our ability to accurately predict
based on 99 traditional scenarios (locating a unknown thief, finding the root
of a rumor, finding a missing object, testing if an object contains a spirit,
ascertaining guilt or innocence, locating hidden treasure, predicting course of
a battle or competition and so on for a total of 99 cases). This means that each
traditional practitioner of khatt al raml, if they come from a traditional lineage,
is an established and tested diviner. Practitioners demonstrate this by naming
their lineage.</span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is deeply connected to rouhinya and Middle Eastern spiritual practices.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">
Like traditional astrology, khatt al raml is deeply connected to spiritual
practice and it can be said that it is inherent to it. Modern forms of
divination may relate their work to psychology, Jungian archetypes etc. Khatt
al raml is considered a spiritual discipline. Traditional practitioners employ
prayers before casting a chart, use purification rites and ablutions, and
recognize that their abilities as diviners depend on their knowledge and skill
AND their spiritual connection. Without that connection the divination is
considered muddied. If the knowledge of casting a chart is the science of khatt
al raml then the spiritual connection is the art. Both are needed for
successful auguries.</span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is part of three other traditional Middle Eastern and North African
forms of divination; astrology, bibliomancy, and oneiromancy</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">.
These are the four traditional divination types of the region and are
interrelated to one another. Khatt al raml is not a separate practice, but
actually deeply connected to its three counterparts. In order to be properly
skilled in khatt al raml you need knowledge and skill in the other three arts
and often you train in them simultaneously. Modern geomancers are already aware
of geomancy’s connection to astrology but may not have heard of the other two’s
connection. One of the traditional uses of khatt al raml is to interpret dreams.
Dreams are categorized as having a variety of sources and therefore meanings
and khatt al raml is called upon to determine both the origins of a dream and
its meaning. Many of the figures in khatt al raml also have dream symbols
associated with it. Similarly, many of the figures in khatt al raml are
associated with specific verses in the Qur’an, or a piece of Sufi poetry; both
of which are used in bibliomantic divinations. Knowledge in all of these go hand-in-hand. </span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is predictive, diagnostic, and prescriptive</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">.
Modern geomancy still retains the former two, but the latter is lost. Khatt al
raml not only predicts outcomes, or provides diagnosis, but also prescribes spiritual
and medical treatment. Prescription is part of medical readings which are
frowned upon by some modern geomancers. In traditional khatt al raml, medical
readings are quite common, especially in areas where folk healers hold sway. I
personally do medical readings, but always advise that my readings are not a
substitute for professional medical attention and that clients have to seek out
a doctor. That said, figures and patterns in geomancy prescribe certain things,
both medically and spiritually. Medically these are related to Yunani which is
based on Graeco-Arabic medical theories. Spiritually, the prescriptions follow
traditional folk-healing techniques. For example, a client may be advised to
avoid hot drinks, or to eat sugared dates, or to only wear white for a month,
or to avoid gossip etc. Prescriptions are an essential part of khatt al raml
and are a means by which to avoid calamity, address a spiritual affliction, or
improve the client’s condition.</span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is associated with people and stories</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Certain
figures as well as patterns in a chart come with stories and fables. The
practitioner of Khatt al raml must memorize each of these stories and their
meaning. Some of these stories are religious and others are folk tales. The figures also represent historical and religious figures (in addition to describing ordinary people). The
skilled practitioner will recognize the pattern, recount the story, and relate
it to the client’s situation. This is quite similar to Ifa in that way and puts
khatt al raml into the wider family of African divinations like hakkata, Ifa, diloggun,
bone reading, sikiddy ec. The various religious and historical figures in khatt al raml are used to ascertain spiritual patrons and a person's spiritual calling. </span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is not monolithic.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> While there are variations and
some minor differences in the practices of European geomancers based on
differences in the texts they draw from there is a lot of conformity. For khatt
al raml on the other hand, it is more accurate to view it as an umbrella
covering a wide range of practices. Historically, khatt al raml can be divided
into three schools, African, Levantine/Arabic, and South Asian. For example the
South Asian school as practiced in Iran, Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan employ
the use of ramal dice and have some different meanings for the figures. In
Africa, the prescriptive and story-telling aspect of khatt al raml is more
emphasized. There are however similarities and commonalities like those covered
in this post.</span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml listens to the Judge</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Modern geomancers
place a great deal of importance on the house chart and modes of perfection,
almost to the point where the Judge takes on a secondary importance. The houses
and modes of perfection also are in khatt al raml, but the Judge is the answer.
I have seen many geomancers cast charts where the judge says one thing and the
house another and they stick to the house’s interpretation and then wonder what
went wrong. In traditional khatt al raml, the Judge gives you the yes or no and
the houses with modes of perfection reveal how the thing will come about. If
there is a conflict then the Result of the Result is generated which acts as
the final seal, or <i>khatam</i>. The
importance of the Judge cannot be overstated especially since some
practitioners in parts of the world only cast the <i>takht</i> or what is known as the shield/tableau in European geomancy.
The role of the Judge and its configuration to rest of the chart is reflective
of Medieval Islamic social structure with the <i>qazi </i>and <i>wakil</i>.</span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is the magic of angel and djinn</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Just as khatt al raml
is a spiritual discipline so too is it a magical practice. Khatt al raml is not
a passive divination system, but is used in magical practice. First, it is
associated with the magic of djinn and angels. Knowledge of khatt al raml is
believed to have been taught to Prophet Idries (Enoch/Hermes) from an angel.
Knowledge of khatt al raml, like knowledge of astrology, is having the
knowledge of angels. It is also connected to the djinn. Especially in its
African branch, practitioners cast chart through the agency of familiar
spirits, calling upon their personal djinn. It is said that without the
familiar djinn that one is blind to the true meaning of the chart. Khatt al
raml itself is very magical. Each figure is a magical symbol, from them
talismans are created, and prescriptions are made. Practitioners trace out
figures in the sand then gather up the sand in their hand and blow the sand to
winds with prayers to carry out spells. Figures are dissolved in water and drunk with prayers. The charts themselves are manipulated
to create <i>taskin</i>. The figures are manipulated
in such a way so as to rewrite destiny, or create a magical effect. Many of
these talisman or <i>taweez</i> rely on
numerological and symbolic meanings and again call on agency of God, angels,
and djinn. This is one of the closest guarded practices of khatt al raml; the
creation of talismans and its use in magic.</span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Khatt
al Raml is secret</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. Knowledge of khatt al raml grants one
knowledge to the world of the hidden (<i>ghayb</i>)
with its djinn and angels. But knowledge of khatt al raml itself is hidden.
Much of its knowledge is not written down in books, but passed down from master
to student in transmission that is unbroken. Khatt al raml’s ways are secret
and there are layers of hidden knowledge that remain still unknown in the west
and that have not made their way into geomancy. </span></li>
</ol>
<br />
</div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-63388083516310443682014-05-26T15:06:00.001-07:002014-05-29T14:25:58.708-07:00Book Review: The Book of Saint Cyprian The Sorcerer's Treasure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Over the years interest in the mysterious Saint Cyprian of Antioch has grown in the English-speaking world, slowly simmering at the edges until being proclaimed as the Saint of Sorcerers and Necormancers. Many have taken him as a patron and accepted him into their lives. But while he may be growing in the English-speaking world, people forget that Saint Cyprian has been a long-time fixture and force in the magical world of Iberian Bruxaria and Latin American folk magic. In particular Saint Cyprian has been associated with a set of magical tomes often found in Spanish and Portuguese. Over the years there have been some attempt to translate bits and pieces, but it has always remained just out of reach for the English-speaking audience--until now. <span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão has taken the famed Book of Saint Cyprian from the shadows and put it within our grasp, setting ablaze the magical world. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><i><a href="http://www.shop.hadeanpress.com/the-book-of-st-cyprian/">The Book of Saint Cyprian: The Sorcerer's Treasure</a></i> is indeed a treasure for anyone interested in the magic of Saint Cyprian. The book is more than a mere translation, but a significant intervention into the interest and study of Saint Cyprian. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"> has translated the book with an attention to scholarship and with a devotion only possible from someone who truly loves what is before him. His personal connection to Saint Cyprian and his intimate understanding of the Book of Saint Cyprian is evident throughout the text. He reminds us of the mystery surrounding the book, the dread it evokes, and the promises of its mysteries. With this in mind the reader dives into the sorcerous tome as you read various stories, legends, learn </span>feitiçaria<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"> for love, destruction, finding treasure, discover Cyprianic cartomancy and much more. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">But in addition to being the most complete translation of the Book of Saint Cyprian, what sets </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão's book apart is his attention to scholarship. As a historian I appreciated his effort to provide cultural and historical background to the text. What you get is not merely a translation, but an introduction into the culture and history that gave birth to the Book of Saint Cyprian. This is a significant contribution for it ties the book directly to the culture(s) and history that gave birth to the text, but also provides us all with a glimpse into the long and beautiful magical traditions of the Iberian sorcerer. With his attention to history, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão gives voice to stories and peoples that have been silenced by the passing of time. There is a particular section discussing the presence of Africans in Iberia which will shake most modern magicians interested in the connection between the European grimoires and the African Traditional Religions as it complicates and challenges the common Euro-centric view of the grimoires influencing the African Traditional Religions.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">What the historical and cultural background reminds us is that unlike other so-called grimoires and tomes of magic, the Book of Saint Cyprian is a living book tied to a people with a living culture. People have continuously read and worked from the Book of Saint Cyprian and it has remained a fixture in their cultural practices. This is not a dusty, long-dead tome that is being reconstructed, but a living text of the sorcery of a people. For people just learning about Saint Cyprian it reminds them of his roots and where this saint and sorcerer's legend found its home. Remembering that history should be humbling and hopefully instill some respect for the cultural and historical roots of the saint. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">The translation and history are enough to set this book apart, but </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão goes above and beyond that. If you are like me and can read some Portuguese and Spanish, this book still has much to offer. In addition to providing an English translation and an outstanding history, there is even more to be found in the commentary. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão follows up his stellar translation with commentary that puts each spell, rite, story, and Cyprianic work into context. He explains the meanings of certain words, clarifies instructions, and provides insight that truly unlocks the treasures of the work. For the practical sorcerer, this section takes the book from being an intellectual curiosity to a practical tome filled with a treasure trove of knowledge the sorcerer can add to his arsenal. I personally found myself absolutely absorbed in the discussion of the mouros and mouras, so much so that I was caught up as if in an enchantment. This speaks to the writing skill of the author whose humor and passion come through clearly. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">He concludes the book with couple annex that follow various Cyprianic strains and a personal conclusion that explores what the Book of Saint Cyprian has meant to people throughout time. For </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão the Book of Cyprian is the keys to the crossroads of life and I could not agree more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">I could not recommend this book enough and can confidently say it is probably my favorite book of the year so far. Other than a few minor editing details this book is flawless. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">José Leitão has done a great service to anyone interested in Saint Cyprian and Iberian sorcery and all of its connections to the past and the cultures of Africa and the New World. Within the pages of this book you will find Saint Cyprian himself, a saint and sorcerer who stands at the margins as the Other in all its manifestation and who through his book gives the keys to the kingdom of heaven and hell, to Jesus and the Devil. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">For those interested seek out the wonderful publishers of this tome, <a href="http://www.shop.hadeanpress.com/">Hadean Press</a>. You can purchase the book here: </span></span><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="line-height: 22.399999618530273px;">http://www.shop.hadeanpress.com/the-book-of-st-cyprian/</span></span><br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-88593692306284184782014-05-16T17:41:00.000-07:002014-05-17T13:46:36.792-07:00Product Review: Oils from Wolf and Goat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Readers of my blog know that I frequently review books; as a bibliophile, I enjoy reading books and writing reviews on them. However, it isn't often that I write a review of products, because I am very careful about who I endorse and also because I rarely buy products from other people. But once in a while you come across something that you cannot help but rave about. That is exactly how I feel about the pair of oils I've received from <a href="http://wolf-and-goat.com/storefront.html">Wolf and Goat</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://wolf-and-goat.com/storefront.html">Wolf and Goat</a> is an online store producing high quality oils, powders, statuary, and various magica materia. Owned and operated by Jesse and Troy, skilled magicians and Quimbandeiros. Now in full disclosure, I should say that Jesse and Troy are my brothers in Quimbanda and while I am certainly biased, their work truly speaks for itself. </div>
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During the Hoodoo Heritage Festival, they kindly gifted me with a pair of oils. One was a Venus oil made under an election by an astrologer I trust and the other was Clarity Oil. The first thing I noticed about both is the packaging. Beautifully packaged in individual little boxes and cushioned with a little nest. Each box is sealed with a small strip of leather and is labeled beautifully by hand. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCuqtTJXLumS7zUMol6qlLt7Q-vG-r20ydPZ9W2ALZguvqMdZSt2mkDnWXqtjSLBY9dkNjcN0Nbz4FyYsgs3p6e77CCeS2BqSBp_v-TTlH8PyhW8pro00HPdb6VIzPmoX5bujS54VQm_5/s1600/IMAG0818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjCuqtTJXLumS7zUMol6qlLt7Q-vG-r20ydPZ9W2ALZguvqMdZSt2mkDnWXqtjSLBY9dkNjcN0Nbz4FyYsgs3p6e77CCeS2BqSBp_v-TTlH8PyhW8pro00HPdb6VIzPmoX5bujS54VQm_5/s1600/IMAG0818.jpg" height="200" width="119" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw641BbILvtla0R0zk3yqUyROsvCiJZhY4AROm6RJOVTLdqbudaohFzGMtZnU9N_P-IUPSVV2PWHgnbW3o2dx4tMhimOxvTHqApMKgScvO4fRmIA4xLGh4e0g4Mn_SHq0RawEuq_QazjFA/s1600/IMAG0819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw641BbILvtla0R0zk3yqUyROsvCiJZhY4AROm6RJOVTLdqbudaohFzGMtZnU9N_P-IUPSVV2PWHgnbW3o2dx4tMhimOxvTHqApMKgScvO4fRmIA4xLGh4e0g4Mn_SHq0RawEuq_QazjFA/s1600/IMAG0819.jpg" height="200" width="119" /></a></div>
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The oils themselves come in small glass bottles sealed professionally and labelled once more. With the oil is a small piece of fabric with details about the oil and some suggested uses. Visually, everything is beautiful. There is an attention to detail to each aspect of the packaging and appearance. It is the kind of next-level work you expect from a pair of artists. The entire appearance has an old-time-purveyor-of-sorcerous-items feel. </div>
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While the aesthetic in me is pleased by the visuals of it all, I am a pragmatic person who is looking for magical products that actually work. To say I was not disappointed is an understatement. As I opened the bottle of Clarity Oil, I smell a perfect blend of oils and herbs that speak worlds to the perfumery skills of <a href="http://wolf-and-goat.com/storefront.html">Wolf and Goat</a>. But it is more than just the smell. Each oil is chock-full of real magica materia; herbs, roots, animal curios, and minerals are fused together into top notch oils. As anyone who makes oils can tell you, how you know if you've made a successful oil is when the smell, feel, and even look of the oil all capture the spirit of the oil's intent. <a href="http://wolf-and-goat.com/storefront.html">Wolf and Goat's</a> oils are exactly like that. One whiff of Clarity Oil and you are <i>smelling </i>Clarity. A dab of Venus oil on my hands and I could <i>feel</i> the luxuriant Venusian essence.<br />
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Suffice to say, I was ready to put them to use. This practical old earthy wizard was ready to get to work. I enjoyed the visuals, I sensed the high quality of the oil and the skill of the makers, but the final and ultimate test was whether the oils would work or not. </div>
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I have currently been working at gaining the favor of a colleague in academia. I have been gaining allies ensuring that I remain in the center of a net of influential individuals so that I could extend my own influence beyond my department which I firmly have under control. In addition to traditional hoodoo work, I had been doing some astrological magic with Jupiter, Mercury, and Venus. Perfect opportunity to put my newly acquired Venus oil to the test. So I started including the oil in my offerings to Venus and dabbed a bit on my hands when I was meeting my colleague so I could touch him with the oil. After a week, success! Not only have I been able to extend my influence, but now I have the favor of several seniors colleagues in other departments who I am actively working with on new projects. </div>
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The Venus oil is top-notch. It makes a great offering to the spirits of Venus, can be used on Venusian talismans, as scent to wear, or added to baths, for anointing candles, and much more. It perfectly captures powerful Venus from the Picatrix. </div>
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Next up was the Clarity oil. The recipe is a unique blend that comes from direct spirit communing. It is true bottled sorcery. Now, one of my favorite ways of divining is scrying, especially with either water, smoke, or my mirror and crystal ball. In particular, I enjoy remote scrying where rather than seek divinatory signs, I using scrying to look in on specific people and situations. Magical spying if you will. So I added Clarity Oil to my work to see if I would notice a difference. </div>
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Up first was water scrying. I got my scrying bowl and added a few drops of the oil into water. The effect was stellar. The image was clear and my focus was sharp. My scrying revealed a situation that needed my direct intervention so I reached for my sihr ink, a special type of magical ink we use in North African sorcery to write out magical spells. We use it with a special stylus to write our will on the fabric of reality. I wrote out my spell on a special plate, added a few drops of Clarity oil, then washed the ink off the plate right into my scrying bowl, using it as a portal to carry the spell directly to my target. The result was instantaneous, the individual got the spiritual help they needed, none the wiser. </div>
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Inspired by the results, I went on to smoke scrying. I lit my coal and added a drop of the oil which smoked beautifully. I called my spirit of divination to help send my sight far and the smoke responded. My spirit coiled around the smoke and within moments, I could see right into what I wanted with a clarity I had not been able to before. It was an amazing result. I added a few drops more oil to set it on fire with the coal and gave it as an offering to the spirits. </div>
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I loved the results I got with the Clarity oil. I use it now to anoint my magic mirrors, my crystal ball, and in other scrying tools.</div>
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I am extremely pleased with my oils and would highly recommend <a href="http://wolf-and-goat.com/storefront.html">Wolf and Goat</a>. I have statues by them and have come to trust their work. Now with their oils, they've made a customer for life. If their other products are as good as their oils, they've got a powerhouse store. What sets <a href="http://wolf-and-goat.com/storefront.html">Wolf and Goat</a> apart is their ability to take their products to a whole new level of quality. From start to finish their products are works of art filled with spirit, life, and potency. </div>
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-69718696980896673302014-04-30T21:26:00.000-07:002014-04-30T21:26:15.767-07:00Shop Closed from 5/1-5/5<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.theconjureman.com/">ConjureMan's Spiritual Practice</a> will be closed from May 1st - May 5th. We will be away from office attending the <a href="http://www.missionaryindependent.org/hoodoo-heritage-festival-workshops.html">Hoodoo Heritage Festival</a>. If you are attending the festival be sure to come up and introduce yourself. We will be back in office on May 6th. If you make an order please remain patient as we play catch up on May 6th.<br />
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We thank you for your patience. </div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-39606067309752857032014-04-11T03:55:00.000-07:002014-04-11T03:55:05.356-07:00Awesome Shop: Sacred Alchemy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://sacredalchemystore.com/pages/about-us">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold</a>, of <i><a href="http://scarletimprint.com/exu.html">Exu</a> </i>and <i><a href="http://www.scarletimprint.com/pombagira.htm">Pomba Gira</a> </i>fame and the author of the excellent blog, <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/2014/04/sacred-alchemy-store.html">Starry Cave</a> has opened up an <a href="http://sacredalchemystore.com/">web store</a> dedicated to spiritual products and services. Nicholaj is one of the most knowledgeable and skilled magicians of our day and age and my own Tata in the path of Quimbanda. His store comes highly recommended and you should definitely <a href="http://sacredalchemystore.com/">check it out</a>.<br />
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He offers traditional items and services from the traditions of Astrology, Ifa`, and Quimbanda. I am very excited about many of his services and products and know that this store will be a resource for many seekers, including myself. Check it out today: http://sacredalchemystore.com/<br />
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<a href="http://sacredalchemystore.com/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy88mpBETbz0rHu2QfPJAb-o9-4klYq7BLlpPbXr19AolOGA8pJ0JN9L8ltTArpNOFAQIQO9nCEmTEZ0vGSW2W1z8Z-oPVbzdwdqAZ2dHKBzbLKdNALJAsHcEWUYTgLAUwKqomo400iDCY/s1600/logo.png" height="236" width="320" /></a></div>
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-46692522002138097482014-04-08T18:12:00.000-07:002014-04-08T18:12:14.890-07:00Holy Guardian Angel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://nephilimpress.com/">Nephilim Press</a> has released their new anthology called <i><a href="http://nephilimpress.com/store/product.php?productid=17701&cat=0&featured=Y">Holy Guardian <u>Angel</u></a></i> spearheaded by Michael Cecchetelli of <i><a href="http://www.scarletimprint.com/crossedkeys.htm">Crossed Keys</a> </i>and <i><a href="http://nephilimpress.com/store/product.php?productid=17678&cat=3&page=1">Book of Abraxas</a></i> fame. The early reviews of the book are fantastic and it is not to be missed. Included in the anthology are amazing pieces by some of the best modern day magicians around. The contents include </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">A Solar Spark of Light And Fire - Darren Scriven </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">Nine Pieces of Heart Advice For Those Seeking The HGA - Jason Miller </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">The Descended Angel - Scott Michael Stenwick </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">Never Again Alone - Rufus Opus </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">After Abramelin: Working With Your Holy Guardian Angel - Aaron Leitch </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">Passing Through The Void: Journey To Unite With Your HGA - Frater Ashen F.N.F. </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">The Voice of Light: The HGA In The Ogdoadic Tradition - Derik Richards </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">Knowledge and Conversation of The HGA: One Thelemites Perspective - Kevin Abblett </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">Holy Guardian Angel(s)? - Conjureman Ali </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">Holy Guardian Angels, Helpful Spirits and The Genius - MC </span><br style="line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">2 Years Later - The HGA Revisited - MC </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Head over to to Nephilim Press and <a href="http://nephilimpress.com/store/product.php?productid=17701&cat=0&featured=Y">grab your copy of this gem</a>. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">http://nephilimpress.com/store/product.php?productid=17701&cat=0&featured=Y</span></span></div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-29217437122735541572014-01-17T14:05:00.000-08:002014-01-17T14:05:13.997-08:00Remembering Dr. E<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. E holding a rustic lamp for his workshops at the Lucky Mojo Hoodoo Heritage Festival. Photo taken by the brilliant Coastside Conjure</td></tr>
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On Tuesday one of the hoodoo communities shinning stars passed from this world. Eddy, known professionally as Dr. E, was a pillar of the community and he touched many around the world. He worked tirelessly as a professional conjure doctor and reader for those who needed help, provided top notch spiritual products, was involved in the pagan community as an elder through the founding of the Unnamed Path, and was a teacher and advocate in the Lukumi community. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity that will be felt by all who met him.<br />
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Besides being a professional colleague, Eddy was a close and personal friend who I loved dearly. I first met Eddy professionally a few years back and because we lived relatively close to one another met in person and quickly became friends. We talked often and some of my favorite memories are the times we got together for a whole day of magic and fun. I remember having Khi and Eddy over at my place for what was suppose to be an afternoon of readings, hang out, and fun but we were having such a blast that a quick get together for lunch turned into dinner and talks into the dark of the night. It was a day filled with spirits, readings, laughter, and true magic. For me, Eddy was one of the handful of people I considered more than a friend, but a true spiritual brother and part of my family.<br />
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Anyone who truly knew Eddy knew his sense of humor. Eddy could crack up anyone. With a sharp wit and a biting sense of humor it wasn't long before your cheeks were hurting from smiling and laughing. For me the Spirit of the Seven Elephants will go down in history and infamy.<br />
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Though he was on this plane for only a short time and gone far too soon, his impact on the communities and people he touched will continue on. His loss will continue to be felt as the communities try to regather. My mind still reels that we were talking only hours before he passed. For his loved one's we will miss him sorely, but know that he makes way the path that one day we all will walk. Rest in peace with blessings, dear brother. Until we meet again. </div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-1903332470801498492013-12-17T11:14:00.000-08:002013-12-17T11:14:30.477-08:00House of Quimbanda on Facebook<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After much prodding from colleagues and friends, the <a href="http://houseofquimbanda.org/">House of Quimbanda</a> has joined <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/House-of-Quimbanda/701912046499347">facebook</a>. The page has just been started and will be tweaked, updated, and refined over the course of the week, so be sure to head over and click "like" to make sure that you keep up with our updates. Check it out by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/House-of-Quimbanda/701912046499347">here</a>.<br />
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Shout out to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MysticOasisStudios">Mystic Oasis Studios</a> for the Artwork. Check them out. </div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-59869854858468209322013-10-23T03:09:00.000-07:002013-10-23T03:09:11.067-07:00Santisima Muerte Interview with ConjureMan Ali<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I just recently joined <a href="http://www.soulrevolutionradio.com/#!about/c1d4r">Lorri Woodmansee</a> of <a href="http://www.soulrevolutionradio.com/">Soul Revolution Radio</a> to discuss Santisima Muerte and my book, <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/portfolio/santisima-muerte/">Santisima Muerte: How to Call and Work with Holy Death</a> </i>published by Hadean Press.<br />
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The interview was an hour of stimulating questions and answers on the origins of this wonderful saint, the way to develop a relationship with her, to begin working with her and much much more. Be sure to check it out:<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/soulrevolution/2013/10/14/santa-muerte-with-conjureman-ali">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/soulrevolution/2013/10/14/santa-muerte-with-conjureman-ali</a><br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-69214489528296109652013-09-26T03:59:00.002-07:002013-09-26T03:59:35.696-07:00Saint Cyprian of Antioch<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRC9ycskze96rGaKohpmqWIA2u74mkLjufQInzuefflvXkjnXD2QyhyXi0pfgpAJjFy8e7F6qh_jvmolQeSb2IHZ7TKZidWqdQM-pyh0vunb9cs6WhVvtwJ5aWMPRiCYqOUTLry0DUgheY/s1600/Cyprian1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRC9ycskze96rGaKohpmqWIA2u74mkLjufQInzuefflvXkjnXD2QyhyXi0pfgpAJjFy8e7F6qh_jvmolQeSb2IHZ7TKZidWqdQM-pyh0vunb9cs6WhVvtwJ5aWMPRiCYqOUTLry0DUgheY/s320/Cyprian1.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
Ever since the publication of my book <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/portfolio/saint-cyprian-saint-of-necromancers/">Saint Cyprian: Saint of Necromancers</a></i> by Hadean Press there has been a resurgence of new interest in this wonderful saint. As his name spreads, more and more people are showing an interest in Saint Cyprian and he's quickly reaching a wider audience. Many will find it quite beneficial to develop a relationship with him. That said, he's not a saint for everyone. He tends to draw those people who straddle the boundaries between the infernal arts and and the celestial and his devotees tend to work a blend of spirit-centered folk magic. But while there are many articles and pieces that talk about Saint Cyprian as the unofficial patron saint of sorcerers, magicians, root doctors etc and there are plenty written about how to work all sorts of magic with him, there is a side of him that is rarely talked about and that is his spiritual function as the repository of ancestral wisdom and potency, or the bridge to the ancestral seas.<br />
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In the legend of Saint Cyprian, he is reputed to have converted to Christianity after his failure to procure the love of Justina via magical means and he goes on to become the bishop of Antioch. Now, some maintain that he did not convert, but made a pragmatic decision which would allow him to continue working his sorcery under the very nose of the Church. Regardless of the reasons, what is important is that he becomes the figure of the sorcerer who finds his home in the Church and who wields powers drawn from both worlds. As the unofficial saint of sorcerers, he straddles the boundaries between the diabolical and the holy, the sorcerous and the religious, and in this we find something quite unique about Saint Cyprian. He is the force that carries forward the ancestral powers through transformation. Following his legend, Saint Cyprian is a Hellenic sorcerer versed in the arts of the sorcery of his age, but he's also a Catholic saint. In this we see his ability of transforming from sorcerous ancestry into the ancestors of the Roman Catholic Church itself. He is then the retention of the ancestral teachings even as it is transformed under its new robe, that of Christianity.<br />
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Turning our eyes away from legend and into the annals of history we can trace how he fulfills the same function throughout the passing of time. After his death and the spread of various books attributed to him, Saint Cyprian becomes the ultimate black magician in the Iberian world. Here he retains his older Hellenic roots as once more he moves forward and transforms into the figure of witchcraft and sorcery found in the Iberian world. With the colonization of Latin America, he rises to prominence as the preeminent Saint of curanderas and brujas alike. Here he represents the witchcraft of Spain as it finds its new home in its colonies in Latin America. He becomes a Latin American saint, but still retains his roots to Spain.<br />
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In Brazil he does the same thing, as he rises to prominence as a Brazilian saint, but he brings with him the memory of Portuguese witchcraft, especially through the various books attributed to him. However, in addition to his role as the preserver and retainer of ancestral memory from Europe, he also becomes the stand in for African ancestral memory in the workings of Macumba. São Cipriano features prominently in the development of Umbanda and Quimbanda from the older Macumba. We find that he is delegated to the head of the African, or what was later the Line of Souls (Linha das Almas). Through this and his later association with the Preto Velhos (African ancestral spirits), São Cipriano goes from being a saint, to the preserver of African ancestry in the new land of Brazil. Indeed, this can still be seen through his connection to various Exu like Exu Meia Noite, who is either his teacher or is his Exu form. Exu Meia Noite in turn has a deep connection to other Exu who represent the ancestral African wisdom as it is retained and transformed in the new world like Exu Gerere, Exu Capa Preta, Exu Kaminaloa, Exu Ganga, Exu Curador, and others. Further exploration of the development and transformation can be found in Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold's <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/portfolio/st-cyprian-the-sorcerous-transmutation/">Saint Cyprian and the Sorcerous Transmutation</a></i>.<br />
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It is in this unique ability of Saint Cyprian to transform while still retaining his roots that one of his <i>misterios </i>or <i>secretos </i>is revealed. For in being the Saint of Necromancers he is holds a unique position as psychopomp and intermediary to our own ancestors. There are a variety of secret workings of Saint Cyprian specifically for the raising of the dead, or the communing of the dead through specially prepared skulls, bones, etc. However, one thing that everyone has access too, is calling upon him to reconnect you to your ancestors.<br />
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In today's modern society, many ancestral lines are broken and much of the ancestral wisdom of the past has sunk into the depths of the ancestral sea. This is not surprising given that just a brief examination of history reveals conversions, colonization, imperialism, and so much more that shattered the ties of whole nations and cultures. However, through Saint Cyprian a unique connection to the ancestors can be formed and through that connection any ancestral spiritual practice that may have been lost can be recovered. This is particularly useful if you suspect that your ancestors may have had folk practices or spiritual beliefs that have faded away with the passage of time.<br />
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What you'll need to accomplish this is, the name of the ancestor if you know it, if not work with a general descriptor and the following:<br />
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Cup of water<br />
Glass of red wine<br />
Acacia<br />
Rosemary<br />
Frankincense<br />
Myrrh<br />
Siete Machos perfume<br />
9 white candles<br />
Charcoal and brazier<br />
3 chords (white, red, black)<br />
Saint Cyprian Oil (recipe can be found in my book, or you can purchase via Lucky Mojo or Wolf and Goat)<br />
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Set up your Saint Cyprian altar with your statue or image of Saint Cyprian in the back and center, the candle to the front and left and the glass of wine to the front and right. This should form a triangle with the image at the top angle.<br />
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To the left of this set up your incense brazier or censor and in the center of the triangle place the cup of water. Underneath you may place the name of your ancestor who you are calling or simple a descriptor like "My ancestors." Light your candle and charcoal for the incense and sprinkle Frankincense and Myrrh as an offering. Spend a few moments letting the smoke build and then pray:<br />
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"San Cipriano, San Ciprano, San Cipriano,</div>
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You whose cloak retains all shades,</div>
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To whom demons, devils, and death is obedient;</div>
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I call you, I beseech you, come and bring your light.</div>
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With your light you break curses and witchcraft,</div>
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With your light you illuminate the dark,</div>
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Tonight I ask you to illuminate the depths of the seas,</div>
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Tonight I ask that you bring from the dark my ancestors.</div>
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They have slumbered and been forgotten, but I remember them.</div>
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My family must be made whole, our prayers must be made whole. </div>
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San Cipriano, San Ciprano, San Cipriano</div>
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Tonight I need your light. Come quickly. </div>
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Amen. "</div>
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Recite 3 "Our Fathers"</div>
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Tell him from your heart that you offer the candle, incense, and wine to him. Now, take up the three chords one by one and say:</div>
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"This white chord represents my unbroken ancestral line. This red chord represents their living blood, me. This black chord represents Saint Cyprian, Saint of the Dark." </div>
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Knot them together at one end and with intense focus and praying from your heart starting to braid them. Once you are done, put three drops of Siete Machos perfume into the water and offer it to your ancestors. Take a pinch of Rosemary and Acacia and put on the charcoal with the resins and hold the chords over the smoke. Let the candle burn down. </div>
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Repeat over the next nights until the ninth night. Each day offer a candle, incense, fresh water, fresh wine and say the prayers as you make another knot in the chords and then hold it over the incense which you've added Rosemary and Acacia too. By the time you are done you should have nine knots in the chord. </div>
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On the last day and with the last knot you should tie a sprig of Rosemary and Acacia into the chords. Hold this over the smoke, then anoint it with wine, water, and Saint Cyprian Oil and wrap it around the image of the saint. Then anoint your head with wine, water, and oil. Take a sip of the water (before you add the Siete Machos) and say, "The line is made whole once more, their blood flows through mine, their ancestral wisdom flows through me like water, we are whole once more." </div>
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Leave the water by your bedside, light another candle and ask your ancestors to come to you and reveal the ways of your ancestry, the powers, the mysteries, and magics that is your birthright. </div>
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-62665674798054226772013-09-22T18:45:00.000-07:002013-09-22T18:45:36.035-07:00Syria, Prophecy, and the Downfall of Mages<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Anyone who has been following the news knows that we currently are in another state of tense relations with a Middle Eastern nation. While the civil war in Syria has actually been going on for some time now and the relationship between Syria and the United States has been deteriorating for a while, in the past month or so things have escalated and quickly. A variety of intelligence sources have indicated the use of chemical weapons by Assad's elite forces against the Al Qaeda and US backed Syrian rebels. The use of chemical weapons against the rebels and his own people by Assad was a red line for the United States which promptly began planning and considering military retaliation as punitive action against the regime. The process has been stalled as the Obama administration has sought out the approval of Congress with supporters and detractors on both side engaged in debate.<br />
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While the United States has been deliberating, it has increased its visible military presence in the region and prepared its military for a strike. France has backed the United States. Opposing the United States has been Russia who has remained an ally of Syria, for its own political reasons. Backing any military action, Russian leader Vladimir Putin has gone from outright denouncing any military action, to appealing directly to the American people, to working through diplomatic means to forge an agreement between all parties. Tentatively an agreement has been reached in which Syria will hand over all of its chemical weapons to be destroyed and therefore avoid strikes from the United States.<br />
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To some this came with a sigh of relief, for while tensions are still there and the conflict is ongoing, at least some move has been made to avoid further military engagements in the Middle East after the United State's previous disastrous experience.<br />
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Now, while politics is all fascinating, the question is what does this have to do with magical and spiritual pursuits. First, as a member of the Order of Saint Cyprian, I firmly believe that magicians and their gifts are not only meant for personal development, but are best suited when properly guided, aligned, and focused to become a force of transformation in their communities and can steer destiny with a benevolent hand. Indeed, this is the goal of the Order of Saint Cyprian, to act as a spiritual force that guides and checks the mundane forces of politics and society.<br />
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But more interestingly, the conflict in Syria poses as an opportunity to examine an interesting phenomenon or series of related phenomenon within the occult and magical community which can only be labelled as apocalyptic and prophetic. Nearly every time there is some world-event, the occult and spiritual community explodes into prophetic and apocalyptic discussions. People prophesy all sorts of things, from the end of the world, to some great spiritual event. Some rely on more subtle and harder proven claims like "shifts in consciousness" and yet others make such outlandish claims that one must wonder whether any degree of critical thinking is present in the online occult and spiritual communities. In the current crisis, I have heard everything from the conflict being a secret magical war, to claims that the goddess was on her way to save Syria. These prophecies prove to be as accurate as the prophecies by certain millenial Christians who have made predictions about the Day of Judgement being on specific days. When these days come to pass, the prediction is simply revised and adjusted. Unfortunately, those in the occult and spiritual community suffer from the same sort of stubborn blindness; when their predictions and prophesies do not come true, they rely on comforting aphorisms like "you can be right and wrong at the same time" or claims that the prophecy came true, "but on a spiritual level."<br />
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And this highlights two of the greatest pitfalls of any magus, sorcerer, or witch: hubris and self-delusion. Wielding any sort of power is intoxicating. The very idea that from the comfort of your home you can effect events far away, or that your will can be made into reality is a powerful and heady brew. Any form of power, magical or not, has this effect on our minds, but for us who practice the arcane arts it is doubly so. The very nature of magic makes it a power that springs from the shadows of society and therefore there are no social power checks against it. The magician can become the ultimate thief, spy, assassin, or anything he wants. The truly skilled magician tends to look like your average person, he walks comfortably into his corner office, smiling politely to his colleagues, who have no clue that the very events of the office are shaped by the unassuming man next to them. It is therefore natural that magical power has an even more intoxicating effect on us. Unfortunately, this quickly leads to hubris. Power, in all its forms has limitations and there are checks and balances even if we do not recognize them.<br />
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A magician who thinks himself entitled to do whatever he wants because he has in the past wielded power, or a magician who loses sight of his own development, is a magician who has fallen to hubris. Unfortunately for such a magician, the fall from the top is usually long and hard. Such people will usually find that there are bigger fish in the sea and will realize that for all their power, there is always someone more powerful and always consequences for our actions. <br />
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But while the nature of power can lead to hubris, the subtle nature of magic can lead to self-delusion. Some of the magical arts border on the subjective, especially divination, and if not checked by a critical and sharp objective eye, will lead to delusions of the worst kind. It is easy to think that because you once did a candle spell and that girl or guy you liked fell in love with you that you are a magician, all subsequent failures however are easily explained by your coping defense mechanisms that keep your precious ego intact. This is the most slippery of slopes because, unfortunately many do not realize how easily it is delude the self. For such people it is easy to jump from having a few magical successes to thinking that you now can shape the course of nations, or that because you are good at reading cards for people that now you can prophesy the fate of nations.<br />
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What makes self-delusion so insidious is that even if hubris can be broken by a good fall and hit to the ego, self-delusion is a wormy defensive mechanism that tries to explain away any truth that contradicts the illusions and delusions that are clung to. So if presented with the truth that no, the goddess is not saving Syria or no the events of Syria do not mark the end of the world, such people will find a way to explain away the evidence to the contrary.<br />
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These two pitfalls go hand-in-hand. The only way to prepare for them is honesty with one's self. Admit your shortcomings, measure your power and abilities as objectively as possible, and know where your strengths lie. It isn't always about looking at the shortcomings, but also acknowledge what you are good at. Some people are brilliant readers when it comes to reading for a person, but that same ability may not translate to the seership required to see global events. Some people are great at both. Some are extremely talented magicians when it comes to themselves, and others known how to pluck the strings of power that they do shape the course of nations, and some can do both. By admitting where you truly stand, by taking true measure of your ability, and recognizing the true extent of your power and understanding, you walk out of a fog that keeps you wandering aimlessly and instead will find yourself on a path to achieving the very power you conceive of without need for hubris or self-delusion.<br />
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For truly, a magician who has an understanding of his own mind and powers is a force to be reckoned with. It is at that moment he goes from being a mageling to a true magus who strides the halls of power shaping the destiny of man.<br />
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This is something applicable to all of us in the magical community. I, myself, do readings for clients but as a member of the Order of Saint Cyprian make prophesies about political and world events, but always with meticulous record and always checked critically by what comes to pass to see whether they came true or not. The same with magic done on a global scale, it is always meticulously recorded and observed critically to gauge success or failure. By understanding what we did wrong and right, we improve. I can honestly say that I can attribute my success as a magician and seer to one part talent, one part practice, and one part meticulous record-keeping with a critical and objective analysis of records.<br />
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All that said, what can we expect from the Middle East? There are many predictions I've made about the Middle East and Syria, some of which are only for my students and friends, but there are a few I can give publicly. I see the toppling of various leaders in power and the time of Assad is limited. It shall come about through proxy wars and shadowy dealings disguised as popular movements. Look to see outward revolutions, but know that behind them stand puppet-masters. These revolutions will lead to executions and death. There shall be a radicalization of the Muslim Brotherhood; they shall become disillusioned with democracy and go underground. There shall emerge a radical and militarized branch in Egypt strongly aligned with the Muslim Brotherhood. Economic and trade embargoes and sanctions will be the tool of the trade for the international community. Aid will be cut to several nations, governments, and sanctions placed, however behind the scenes will be armament. Old alliances will crumble as brother turns on brother and the older guard of dictators will fall before youthful revolution. The clash for the soul of the Middle East will explode into outright civil wars and revolutions between the radicalized and fundamentalist sects with more progressive and youthful movements. This is different from the revolutions that have taken place in the Arab Spring, for it shall be a revolution against fundamentalism. Relations with Iran will improve for a time, but will deteriorate as Hezbollah's actions in Lebanon move from the shadows to open strikes. Fundamentalist groups will become more radical and will spread through cells as the war shifts into Africa until the Middle East and Africa are drawn into larger proxy wars. We can expect 2 major interventions in the Middle East in the next 10 years at least. Eye's should be turned to North Africa as it is drawn into the larger Middle Eastern conflicts. Pakistan will struggle between its democratic, dictatorial, and religious sects until it too enters into a period of civil war, and Turkey will emerge as a military leader.<br />
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The rest of the prophecies I keep for those with ears to hear and eyes to see.<br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-47428092698356312692013-09-11T16:41:00.000-07:002013-09-11T16:41:37.121-07:00Book Review- Obeah: A Sorcerous Ossuary<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Of all the African-derived cults and sorceries, Obeah is one of the least-known and least-understood. Often confused as a chaos magic of the Caribbean, or confused with the religion of Vodou, it is a shadowy practice that while is not entirely understood is respected for its great power. After shedding light on the similarly misunderstood cults of <a href="http://www.scarletimprint.com/palo_mayombe.htm">Palo</a> and <a href="http://www.scarletimprint.com/exu.html">Quimbanda</a>, <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold</a> has brought his balance of impeccable scholarship and astute spiritual insight to illuminate Obeah. This thought-provoking and powerful monograph aptly titled, <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary">Obeah: A Sorcerous Ossuary</a></i>, reveals an inside perspective into this powerful spiritual art.<br />
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Like all his other books, <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold</a> speaks from the perspective of anthropological scholarship as well as that of a practitioner. This unique blend of scholarly standard combined with an inside perspective makes his writings unique as they become accessible and useful to both practitioners and academics alike. Through his writings, he has tackled the difficult task of shining a light on practices that are either unheard of or barely understood in the English-speaking world. <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary">Obeah: A Sorcerous Ossuary</a></i>, is no exception. While acknowledging that the shadowy and highly pragmatic nature of Obeah combined with its variation from island to island makes defining Obeah difficult, the book manages to illuminate by tracing the root practice, detailing the major spirits and deities, and highlighting several practices of Obeah. In this way, glimpses of this practice are shown.<br />
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One of the things that I admire about <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold</a> is his respect of tradition. He is not an author who enters into a cult and acts in a appropriative or disrespectful manner. He honors his lineage and teachers by writing down the cult as he has learned it while recording practices as they practiced today. In <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary">Obeah: A Sorcerous Ossuary</a> </i>he emphasizes that this practice is initiatory and tied directly to a hereditary lineage. Yet, because of the unique nature of this sorcerous way, there is something familiar to the reader, especially those who practice Hoodoo, Palo, or Quimbanda. To the root doctor, the imminently pragmatic nature of Obeah along with the drawing of power from the green world is something that is all too familiar. And the dynamic fire at the center of Obeah along with its ability to work with powerful spirits of nature and night strike a chord with a Palero and Quimbandiero alike. As a conjure doctor and Tata Quimbanda, there was much that resonated with me.<br />
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After discussing the historical roots, cosmology, and major spirits and deities of Obeah, the book focuses in on what Obeah actually is--a spiritual potency and power that is used to fuel healing and malefica through the powers and world of Sasabonsam, Papa Bones, and Anima Sola. In these parts, the prophet and poet in <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold</a> steps forth as he manages to capture something that is nearly beyond words and it becomes evident to the reader that not only is he an author, but he writes under direct guidance and inspiration from the spirits themselves. In this way, his writing goes from being books about magic to books <i>of </i>magic. You can almost feel the fire emanating from the words on the pages and the crackle of power with each turn of the page.<br />
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The book concludes with several practices that reveal the unique and pragmatic nature of Obeah that combines the fiery power passed down to the Obeahman with the ability to call upon spiritual agencies to carry out works of sorcerous might. The manifestation is a special blend of magic that draws upon African, Christian, and Grimoiric sorceries. The Kabalistic Banquette of the Lemegeton demonstrates this amazingly well as the spirits of the grimoires are drawn down in a European-style banquet combined with African perspective on possession. Truly a marvelous illustration of Obeah's practices. Of particular interest to me was the oracular dice used in Obeah, which I found fascinating.<br />
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Not only is <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary">Obeah: A Sorcerous Ossuary</a></i> the first book of its kind, but it does what few other authors can, combine an astute scholarly approach with that of an actual practitioner. This approach cannot be praised enough for too long books on magic and the occult were one-sided in their approach and left much to be desired. The result of this blend is that this book becomes deeply illuminating, but also has the effect of stirring the readers own embers as the potency of Obeah comes alive through the masterful hand of <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold</a>.<br />
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Whether you are a practitioner of the African-derived arts or simply curious, this book has something for you. Do yourself a service and purchase it from <a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary">Hadean Press</a> now. Approach this tradition with respect and honor the heeding within the book and you'll find something powerful opening up by reading.<br />
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<a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary">http://www.hadeanpress.com/2013/09/obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=obeah-a-sorcerous-ossuary</a></div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-7480822605169986212013-08-15T20:00:00.001-07:002013-08-15T20:00:16.072-07:00Predictions and Life Reading for Prince George<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In cultures around the world, the birth of a child was often accompanied by predictions about the child's life. Whether you were in a village in the middle of Angola, or in the urban sprawl of London, it was not common that you'd visit the local diviner to hear what the stars or fates had in store for your newborn. In Europe and the Middle East, astrology and geomancy were often turned to for such prediction. During the apogee of both of these sacred arts, royals would often have court astrologers and geomancers who would ply their divinatory skills to ferret out hidden answers to various questions. It was not uncommon, for example, to ask about the tide of a battle, or the chances of a marriage. But like their folk and popular counterparts, the court diviner was also called upon to read the life of a newborn, especially one born to the court. <div>
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In this age-old tradition, I have decided to cast a quick geomantic chart on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_George_of_Cambridge">Prince George of Cambridge</a>, the new prince of England and son of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_William,_Duke_of_Cambridge">Prince William</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catherine,_Duchess_of_Cambridge">Kate</a>. His birth a few weeks back offers a great opportunity to demonstrate one of the traditional uses of geomancy and to revive a practice that has fallen out of favor in more modern time--predictions revolving around birth and the destiny that comes with it. I have personally found that the two best divination methods for long-term predictions, especially about life are geomancy and astrology. In the geomancy that follows we focus heavily on the position of the geomantic figures in the astrological houses. </div>
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I used my raml dice (a unique set of four die joined together specifically used for geomancy in North Africa, India, and Pakistan) to birth the figures and then produced the chart which is depicted above. </div>
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Staring with the first house we have Conjunctio revealing the character of the young price. He is going to be charming, attractive, slender of build, beautiful luminous eyes, will be inclined to travel, popular, but inclined towards privacy and needing his own space. He will have a mischievous sense of humor and twinkle in his eye but can be quite serious and thoughtful when called for. In him we find the balance between his uncle Harry and his father William in terms of disposition and in terms of charm and articulation we find his mother. </div>
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The second house shows us Laetitia which passes also into the sixth house. Financially he will be well off as he will likely have access to wealth that was built for him, but he will also take up service himself to further compliment his finances. He will be inclined towards humanitarian causes, will be quite generous especially to those who work for him and serve under him, and will manage his money more with his heart than mind. We will find in him a man who is given to causes, especially helping those less fortunate and those dealing with illnesses and disease. </div>
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The third house contains Amissio which passes into the fourth house. On one level the presence of Amissio in the third house tells us that when it comes to his communication style, the young price will be soft, tactful, but honest. It also tells us that he will likely have siblings, or cousins, and be raised surrounded by family and in a homey environment. The passing to the fourth house shows us an environment where he will likely not be living on the premises of any inherited paternal property, but will instead reside in more humble, but comfortable arrangements. Indeed, property inheritance may not feature in his life until a much later age. </div>
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In terms of schooling his father will play a very big role and he may follow in his footsteps. His father's influence is going to be very tempering for the young prince but he will be encouraged to follow his passions and interests. </div>
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Caput Draconis in the fifth house shows us a strong, active boy who will be involved in outdoor activities, sports, and enjoy games. He may be inclined to wagering a bit here or there and will be especially fond of more outdoor activities like football and horseback riding. He will be very fortunate and skilled in sports as well as have good fortune in wagers. </div>
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He will carry on the family line by having a child of his own, who will likely be a boy. </div>
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In the seventh house appears Puella, indicating that he will have a beautiful love-life and will probably get married around his late 20's to early 30's (likely 29). While he will eventually get married, the passing of Puella to the twelfth house tells us that he's going to keep his romantic and dating life hidden as much as possible. He's going to struggle to keep things private and there will be quite some speculation regarding it. However, he will indeed settle down and get married with a beautiful woman who like him will be very home and family oriented. Traditional geomancy tells us that she will be quite attractive, with beautiful eyes, soft lips, and a very attractive, melodious voice. She may be younger than him by a few years as well. </div>
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The passing of Puella to the twelfth house does warn that there is a chance for him having an affair, or that his future wife, when he meets her, will be involved with another at the time. There will however be some controversy regarding his love life and he will strive to keep as much of it under wraps as possible. This is all where the projection of points lands revealing a bit of what is going on behind the curtain in his future. </div>
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In the eight house we have Populus which also passes to the tenth house. He will deal with a series of deaths in his family, specifically revolving around the maternal and female figures in his family. In addition to the death of his great grandmother, the queen, other close females to him will also pass and the death of them will impact him rather strongly and will be part of popular news. He may have one female death after another. Theses deaths will also raise his standing and station in society as well as gain him an inheritance. This seems to logically point to the fact that as the queen passes, he'll be one step closer to the throne. </div>
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The indication here is that he indeed will eventually sit on the throne and be a very popular and well-loved king. </div>
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I also see here that he will likely be very close to his mother who will be the biggest influence on him when it comes to his public life. </div>
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The ninth house contains Cauda Draconis which is a very interesting figure in the ninth house. Traditional khatt al raml interpretations indicate that Cauda Draconis in the ninth house points to a person who is a radical, apostate, and who will likely hold to revolutionary or unique philosophical outlooks. It is possible that he may have some revolutionary approaches to time-old institutions like the Church of England and he is likely going to bring about some interesting changes. While something like him being an apostate or convert to another religion is possible, it is more likely he may make changes to the role of the monarchy to the Church of England. </div>
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This is a young prince who upon becoming king will break with the past. </div>
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Via in the eleventh house shows us that the young prince will be popular, but will be more inclined towards a small group of friends who will travel with him, and that he will have friends from all walks of life. He is not someone who will be restricted to the bubble-like life of most princes, but will be exposed to a variety of friends and people. Via in traditional khatt al raml has a unique position among the figures and following that tradition, its position in the eleventh house shows us that his friendships with people from all walks of life will have a deep impact on him and his outlook. </div>
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Finally, we examine the guardian genius of the prince as found in geomancy and we see a man who will struggle between the traditions of the past and the modernization of the monarchy. He will struggle greatly balancing the public and private aspects of his life and though will be charming and gracious will have a deep need for privacy and space. He will be inclined towards pensiveness at times and will struggle with some deep spiritual and humanitarian questions. </div>
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We also see the influence of the Mansion of the Moon Saa'd Al Suud in this chart and his birth revealing a person who will be very close to his mother--confirming the earlier prediction--who will be deeply connected to home and hearth and who will be focused on giving sustenance to others. He will be well-mannered, well-liked, with a beautiful spirit and will live a blessed life. </div>
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Overall, geomancy reveals a very interesting life for the prince and shows us a man who will live a blessed life, who will sit on the throne himself, but who will also be a person with deep personal struggles which will impact the changes he brings when he ascends the throne. </div>
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For those interested in a geomantic life reading, I do offer the service which you can set up here:</div>
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<a href="http://www.readersandrootworkers.org/index.php?title=ConjureMan_Ali">http://www.readersandrootworkers.org/index.php?title=ConjureMan_Ali</a></div>
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and here:</div>
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<a href="http://www.theconjureman.com/Readings___Consultations.html">http://www.theconjureman.com/Readings___Consultations.html</a></div>
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-58833937767616792382013-08-10T21:32:00.000-07:002013-08-10T21:32:15.506-07:00Book Review: St. Cyprian and the Sorcerous Transmutation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It is no secret that I am a fan of <a href="http://www.starrycave.com/">Nicholaj de Mattos Frisvold </a>and consider him to be one of the preeminent magical authors of our age. So when, I heard that he had released a booklet through <a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/">Hadean Press</a> on my patron, Saint Cyprian, I could not wait to order it.<br />
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I received the book this past week--<a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/">Hadean Press</a> prompt as usual--and have read it probably half a dozen times. Nicholaj does something that few authors in the magical community can, he is able to blend stellar scholarship with piercing spiritual insight. <i><a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/portfolio/st-cyprian-the-sorcerous-transmutation/">Saint Cyprian and the Sorcerous Transmutation</a></i> is a small book, but jam packed with spiritual insight on the nature of Saint Cyprian, especially his transformation from the sorcerous saint of Spain and Portugal to one among the the legions of Exu and Quimbanda.<br />
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The books traces the historical migration and transmutation of Cyprian, discussing the Cyprianic magic that takes root in the New World, and the deeper mysteries of Cyprian as the head of the African Line and Line of Souls as found in the Afro-Brazilian religions. In addition to the insights one can find several workings with Cyprian which reveal a bit of the flavor of the magic and macumba which he influences.<br />
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It is a great book with something for everyone. Whether you are simply researching, working with him, or curious about the magic of Spain and Portugal, or want to know about macumba and <a href="http://houseofquimbanda.org/quimbanda/">Quimbanda</a>, the book will prove enlightening and useful. Within its pages is an opportunity to find the fusion of folk magic from Europe with the black magic of Brazil, blended with the ancestral wisdom retained from Africa.<br />
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You can find the book here: <a href="http://www.hadeanpress.com/portfolio/st-cyprian-the-sorcerous-transmutation/">http://www.hadeanpress.com/portfolio/st-cyprian-the-sorcerous-transmutation/</a></div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-47608488572854421972013-07-31T15:58:00.001-07:002013-08-23T06:17:36.446-07:00Quimbanda on Youtube<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
KDLC Media and <a href="http://www.kimbisa.org/">Candelo's Corner</a> recently put up the interview I did with them on Youtube. I talk about the history and origins of <a href="http://houseofquimbanda.org/quimbanda/">Quimbanda</a>, explain what <a href="http://houseofquimbanda.org/quimbanda/">Quimbanda</a> actually is, and more importantly how to get involved in <a href="http://houseofquimbanda.org/quimbanda/">Quimbanda</a> and what to expect for people living here in the United States to help avoid scams.<br />
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Catch it on Youtube here: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vv6v2TLyiM">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Vv6v2TLyiM</a><br />
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Catch it on Kimbisa.Org: <a href="http://www.kimbisa.org/podcast/candelos-corner-conjure-man-ali-talks-kimbanda-quimbanda/">http://www.kimbisa.org/podcast/candelos-corner-conjure-man-ali-talks-kimbanda-quimbanda/</a><br />
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Download via iTunes episode 49: <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/kimbisa.org-home-candelos/id570056101">https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/kimbisa.org-home-candelos/id570056101</a><br />
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Enjoy!</div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-63290045896356878462013-07-16T13:56:00.000-07:002014-06-17T14:02:25.680-07:00Geomancy for Zimmerman Trial<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I've been meaning to post a little bit about geomancy, but have been pretty busy. However recent events give a good means of demonstrating how this ancient form of divination works and the great results one can achieve from it.<br />
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Now, I practice geomancy a tad differently than others as I come from a khatt al-raml school of thought which has slightly different emphasis in its approach, but I shall present this post as an example of traditional geomancy.<br />
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I cast a chart for the trial of George Zimmerman to see what the outcome would be. I frequently work with mundane astrology, horary astrology, and geomancy to get answers to things going on in the world as I believe that the magus and diviner is not just a person immersed in a separate world of spirits, candles, and rites, but a person attune to the flux of life and nature's cycles. So it is quite common for me to take time out to do readings for political elections, the outcome of trials, the course of conflicts and much more.<br />
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I did the same with the George Zimmerman trial, a trial that has captured the attention of the nation which carry within it an investigation of the self-defense laws of Florida, the character of the two individuals, George Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin, as well as a close look at race issues. While I do have my own bias regarding what happened and what should happen, this post will specifically be about an exploration of the situation from a divinatory point of view and will not be a commentary on the events or the outcome of the trial. My heart and prayers do go out to the family of Trayvon Martin for their loss and I pray for their peace.<br />
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I am a little late in this post as the trial is over, but such is the life of a busy ConjureMan and while moot at this point, it is a good exercise to see how geomancy works. Above is a screen shot of a dated and time-stamped record of the figures cast for this geomantic chart. While I cast all my geomantic charts by hand either using al raml dice or I generate the Mothers the traditional way, for larger predictions I then record those results using Renaissance Astrology's Geomanticon software which provides me a way of attaching a date and time to the predictions, which is helpful for when I have to go back and check the results against my prediction.<br />
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While the first image is useful in showing when the chart was recorded it doesn't show the actual chart and figures which is far more useful. Above we have the figures as they are placed in the shield chart (called takht in khatt al-raml). Again these are the figures that I input into the Geomanticon software after casting the chart by hand. While I shall go more in depth into how geomancy works and some basics in another post, I'll focus more on my interpretation of the chart. In khatt al-raml the shield is the first place we look for the overall answer to a question or situation.</div>
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The Right Witness is Rubeus revealing rage, upset, and emotional imbalance. Here we see that this trial brings out the worst in people and that ultimately this trail is born out of bad and hasty decisions on the part of George Zimmerman. Whether he is an evil racist, or not, I leave to other people to comment on, but suffice to say that geomancy reveals that all of this started because Zimmerman was in a place of frustration, of anger, and acted out of corrosive emotions and poor decisions. This also speaks to the environment around the trail itself and we see here the clear indication that this trial was brought before the court out of a sense that preliminary actions were an upset to what should have happened. </div>
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The Left Witness, which represents the future, is Cauda Draconis. While normally a relatively negative figure indicating the end of things, in matters of dealing with jail and going to prison it is usually positive indicating either a favorable end, or being released from jail. Here we see that the end of the trial favors Zimmerman and that the future shows a positive end for him. He will walk away from this having a good end to the trial.</div>
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The Judge is Amissio a figure of loss which can be negative in financial matters, but quite positive in matters of the heart and where one wants an end to things (jail time, illness etc). In khatt al-raml the Judge is the ultimate answer where in more European and modern day geomancy the astrological houses and modes of perfection take precedence. For me, the Judge gives me the answer and the house fleshes out the details. Our Judge ultimately tells us that things are looking good for Zimmerman and he may get off without jail time. However, Amissio also means loss in a larger scale and so while in legal court Zimmerman may avoid jail time and be acquitted, it is likely that the court of public opinion will be against him and he may in the long run lose even if he avoids jail and is found not guilty. </div>
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We next look to the 1st and 4th Mother to see how things started and will end. Cauda Draconis as the First Mother shows us that many people have already made up their mind about the case and George Zimmerman himself had already made up his mind about Trayvon Martin before the confrontation happened. This case is the result of pre-judging a person and situation and Cauda Draconis speaks to that. Amissio as the 4th Mother confirms the high chances of being found not guilty and passes to the Judge. </div>
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I then examined the house chart which is based off of astrological considerations and there are some who even refer to this method as astrological geomancy. Now in the first house we have Cauda Draconis which to some geomancers indicate that you should stop the reading and set it aside for a time before casting a new chart--often because one has already decided on the answer before casting the chart. In khatt al-raml we are a bit more practical and continue a reading while noting such signs (the same for Rubeus in the first house which some people deal with by tearing and burning the chart, but not in khatt al-raml). But because this is a third party question, we rotate the chart to the seventh house, the house of the other which represents Zimmerman therefore the 1st house in the rotated chart is the 7th. Here we have Via revealing that that he feels particularly confident about the way forward and that while matters may be out of his hands and he must acquiesce to a passive role letting the legal system work things out, that he is confident about his release and Via is about the open road. Via passes into the 11th house in the rotated chart revealing that his release is going to hinge strongly upon his allies and friends who will step up to help him and that his legal defense relies heavily on calling upon those allies and friends. Together they will work for his release and will provide great support. Zimmerman is not afraid to ask for help from his friends who are also willing to help him.<br />
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Also because Via is in the 11th house, he may expect help from unexpected sources and witnesses.<br />
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Prison and other such unpleasant matters are found in the 12th house which in the rotated chart contains Laetitia, or joy (6th house before rotation). This is an omen of victory for Zimmerman further confirmed by the fact that Laetitia is a mobile figure and is favorable for avoiding jail time or being released from jail. Furthermore perfection through conjunction happens with Via springing to the 11th house of the rotated chart. This further favors success and victory for George Zimmerman and again emphasizes that his friends will play a great role in helping him get released.<br />
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To ferret out hidden factors we look to the Projection of Points which is is found in the 6th house of the rotated chart which contains Carcer, prison or the lock. This tells us that this trial will have a heavy impact on Zimmerman's health and he may find himself feel trapped as a result of the emotional and physical strain it takes on him. He should be particularly aware of knee and leg problems. It also tells us that he will likely continue to work with his same legal team in further upcoming legal matters. Now, while traditionally the 10th house refers to career, some also take the 5th to include jobs which in this case would mean he'd have a hard time getting hired going forward.<br />
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The figures themselves along with all the positive factors reveal that things are going to go Zimmerman's way. My prediction then was that Zimmerman would not go to jail and will likely be acquitted, but may face heavier losses down the road--Amissio as Judge. </div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-33887971734585812752013-07-14T14:01:00.000-07:002013-07-14T14:01:10.276-07:00Madame Nadia on the Lucky Mojo Hoodoo Rootwork Hour Today<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Stop by the <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/luckymojohoodoorootworkhour/2013/07/14/lucky-mojo-hoodoo-rootwork-hour-general-call-in-format">Lucky Mojo Hoodoo Rootwork Hour</a> where you'll find <a href="http://www.madamenadia.com/">Madame Nadia</a> joining me as guest co-host, filling in for Miss Cat along with this week's guest <a href="http://www.readersandrootworkers.org/index.php?title=Ms._Melanie">Ms. Melanie</a>. It's going to be an hour of rootwork, readings, and pure magic.<br />
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The show starts at 3pm Pacific or 6pm Eastern time! Check us out here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/luckymojohoodoorootworkhour/2013/07/14/lucky-mojo-hoodoo-rootwork-hour-general-call-in-format">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/luckymojohoodoorootworkhour/2013/07/14/lucky-mojo-hoodoo-rootwork-hour-general-call-in-format</a></div>
ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-70968153057379053982013-07-11T15:04:00.000-07:002013-07-11T15:29:03.958-07:00Check Out Candelo's Corner on Monday!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My dear brother in Quimbanda, Tata Jesse, is going to be on <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kdclmedia/2013/07/16/candelos-corner-with-jesse-troy-from-wolf-goat">Candelo's Corner</a> this coming Monday where he will be talking about his background in the spiritual arts as well as the opening of his store, <a href="http://www.wolf-and-goat.com/">Wolf and Goat</a>. Tata Jesse holds multiple initiations in various traditions, is a professional reader and rootworker, and a powerful magician. He is a dear friend and brother and I cannot wait for this interview.<br />
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Tata Jesse will be joined by the wonderful Troy, owner of <a href="http://www.wolf-and-goat.com/">Wolf and Goat</a>, Quimbandiero, and a brilliant spirit artist. I myself have a few of his pieces on my altars and they are down right potent. Troy is an Obeahman and a worker of magical Art.<br />
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I am proud to call both of them brothers and am excited about the upcoming interview. I'll definitely be there to hear them speak. Be sure to join us at <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kdclmedia/2013/07/16/candelos-corner-with-jesse-troy-from-wolf-goat">Candelo's Corner</a>, it is going to be hot!<br />
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Candelo's Corner will air Monday at 5pm pacific/ 8pm Eastern time. You can find it here:<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kdclmedia/2013/07/16/candelos-corner-with-jesse-troy-from-wolf-goat">http://www.blogtalkradio.com/kdclmedia/2013/07/16/candelos-corner-with-jesse-troy-from-wolf-goat</a><br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-10703241995720677092013-07-06T13:03:00.000-07:002013-07-06T13:05:22.034-07:00Exorcising A Home<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Conjure men and women from Virginia, in addition to being called upon for your regular love, money, revenge, uncrossing, and court case work, were also quite famous for their ability to exorcise spirits from a place or home. There were a variety of means by which these powerful root doctors could accomplish this and were often handed down from generation to generation. These set of techniques and practices were referred to as "ghost laying" or "laying a spirit down to rest." The idea was that if you had a spirit, or ghost haunting your house it was because it was in a state of unrest, confusion, and loss. Therefore, it was the job of the conjure man or woman to help put that spirit to rest, often by directing them away from the home and back to where they properly belong: the cemetery. </div>
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Though we are talking specifically about Virginian hoodoo and conjure practices, the terminology and concept has its roots in both African spiritual practices as well as the magical techniques of Northern Europe. Indeed, one of the most common services provided by the Hellenic and even the archaic goet was that of laying down spirits. I like to think that I carry on the practice of the goetic magicians of old and the conjure doctors who taught me their arts by performing ghost laying for clients and working as an exorcist.<br />
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If you find yourself in the need to lay a spirit down to rest you can do the following. </div>
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Go to each room of the house and place a cup of fresh water in the center of the room on a surface or on the floor. Place into that cup of water an egg. Recite over the cup with the egg Psalm 10 which is used commonly in Pslamic magic to exorcise restless spirits. Let the cups and eggs rest over night. Then take all of them to the cemetery. If you have a lot of cups, you might need help carrying them all. At the cemetery door pay three coins to the gatekeeper to grant you entrance. Pour the water out and bury the eggs. I suggest burying them in the general cemetery grounds not a specific grave that is already occupied. Pour cool water over the freshly buried eggs, say a prayer, and tell the spirits that this is their new home and to be at rest. </div>
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Some people also perform a mock funeral at this point to help the spirit adjust to its new home and find peace. Leave the cemetery and take a different route home. </div>
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When you come home, sprinkle your home with Holy Water and mark the doors with Holy Oil, Blessed Oil, or Fiery Wall of Protection. Finally take a nice cleansing bath to remove any spiritual gunk off of yourself with Rue, Basil, and Bay leaves brewed into a tea. Catch a bit of the used bath water, let yourself air dry, and dispose of the used bath water off of your property at the crossroads or at a tree. Return home and anoint yourself with Holy Oil. </div>
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In general this works excellently for spirits that have taken up residence in a certain place. If a spirit is attached to a specific person or sent with a specific mission, then a different approach would have to be taken. </div>
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-19724822337250496922013-05-29T16:16:00.001-07:002013-05-29T16:16:38.546-07:00New Interview With Me<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My colleague Miss Bri over at <a href="http://milagroroots.com/">Milagro Roots</a> has put a an interview piece about me as part of her getting to know members of AIRR feature. You can check it out here:<br />
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<a href="http://milagroroots.com/encounters-with-airr-conjureman-ali/">http://milagroroots.com/encounters-with-airr-conjureman-ali/</a><br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-67998437723384512462013-05-02T17:38:00.001-07:002013-05-02T17:38:17.378-07:00Closed from 5/3-5/6<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.theconjureman.com/">ConjureMan's Spiritual Practice</a> will be closed from May 3rd to May 6th as we'll be on the road and travelling. We will back in the office on 5/7th and will get to each inquiry, purchase, and email then.<br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-296009907218496806.post-37378172506751306982013-04-04T15:34:00.001-07:002013-08-23T06:15:37.526-07:00Workshop on Skull Sorcery<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This year at the <a href="http://missionary-independent.org/workshops.html">Missionary Independent Spiritual Church Workshops</a>, I will be teaching an awesome workshop on Skull Sorcery, how to summon the spirits of the dead to influence the mind and heart of people for cursing, love, healing, and much more. This is going to be an awesome workshop where you'll have a chance to learn little known techniques and will walk away with a fully-prepared and functional ritual skull. Don't miss out.<br />
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In addition to my own workshop, the best of the best in the conjuring world will be gathering together for the <a href="http://missionary-independent.org/workshops.html">May workshops</a> to bring to you some awesome topics. Dr. E will be teaching a stellar workshop on Rustic Oil Lamps, cat yronwode will be teaching traditional candle magic, Deacon Millett will be teaching sweetening spells and there will be so much more. In addition to the workshops there are great takeaways like oil lamps, skulls, candles as well as the release of three new books which will be included in the workshops.<br />
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You get a chance to take some amazing workshops taught by the best of the best in the hoodoo community, mingle with colleagues, take home awesome gifts, and get readings from professionals face-to-face. So be sure to sign up and join us May 4th and 5th for a magical weekend. Whether you are a beginner or advanced practitioner, the workshops hold something for everyone.<br />
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To learn more check out the site <a href="http://missionary-independent.org/workshops.html">here</a>.<br />
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ConjureMan Alihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15837523711909588929noreply@blogger.com1