What Do The Seven Pins Mean In Voodoo Symbology

Symbolism is an inherent characteristic of all magickal systems, mystical practices, and religions. As such, knowledge is power. In addition, there is positive and negative in all magickal systems - good and evil, black and white, light and dark, love and revenge, right and left. While Hollywood and the mass media have inaccurately amplified the negative aspects of Hoodoo and Voodoo and thus perpetuating its traumatic origins in this country, Voodoo priests and priestesses work primarily with the right hand (for good). Hoodoo root doctors, as they are called, will often work with both hands.However, all healers must have an intimate knowledge of both sides of the coin for without this knowledge, it would be impossible to define the light.

Numbers and colors are at the core of Hoodoo and Voodoo symbology. It is hard to definitively say where the importance of the number seven came from. The number seven is integral to many Native American belief systems, representing the seven sacred directions, and it is commonly known that much of Hoodoo and Voodoo came from the indigenous knowledge of the healing plants and herbs in ritual and healing practices. In addition, it is believed that the availability of the Jewish menorah candle holders were widely available and purchased by practitioners and ultimately the use of seven candles, seven colors, and the number seven in general were incorporated into the practice.

If you research the topic at all, you will find discrepencies into the meanings of the seven colors. I am offering one interpretation of the meanings of the seven colored pins found in new Orleans Voodoo. Note that this interpretation is based on right hand Voodoo practice.

Symbolism of the 7 pin colors:

yellow - success
white - positive
red - power
purple - spirituality
green - money
blue - love
black - repelling negative energy

Books You Might Enjoy:

Arthur Edward Waite - The Secret Doctrine In Israel.pdf
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John Dee - The Hieroglyphic Monad Latin Version Second
Christopher Siren - Sumerian Mythology Faq

Voodoo Superstitions And Spells

Many superstitions also related to the practice of Hoodoo developed within the Voodoo tradition in Louisiana. While these superstitions are not central to the Voodoo faith, their appearance is partly a result of Voodoo tradition in New Orleans and have since influenced it significantly.

* If you lay a broom across the doorway at night, a witch can't come in and hurt you.
* Having a woman visit you the first thing on Monday mornings is bad luck for the rest of the week.
* Don't borrow or lend salt because that is bad luck.
* If you sweep trash out of the house after dark you will sweep away your luck.
* Don't shake a tablecloth outside after dark or someone in your family will die.
* To stop a Voodoo spell being placed upon you, acquire some bristles from a pig cooked at a Voodoo ritual, tie the bristles into a bundle and carry them on you at all times.
* If a woman sprinkles some salt from her house to yours, it will give you bad luck until you clean the salt away and put pepper over your door sill.
* If a woman wants her husband to stay away from other woman, she can do so by putting a little of her blood in his coffee, and he will never quit her.
* If a woman's husband dies and you don't want her to marry again, cut all of her husband's shoes all in little pieces, just as soon as he is dead, and she will never marry again.
* You can give someone a headache by taking and turning their picture upside down.
* You can harm a person in whatever way you want to by getting a lock of his hair and burning some and throwing the rest away.
* You can make a farmer's well go dry by putting some soda in the well for one week, each day; then drawing a bucket of water out and throwing it in the river to make the well go dry.

In Voodoo spells, the "cure-all" was very popular among followers. The cure-all was a Voodoo spell that could solve all problems. There were different recipes in voodoo spells for cure-all; one recipe was to mix jimson weed with sulphur and honey. The mixture was placed in a glass, which was rubbed against a black cat, and then the mixture was slowly sipped.

The Voodoo doll is a form of gris-gris, and an example of sympathetic magic. Contrary to popular belief, Voodoo dolls are usually used to bless instead of curse. The purpose of sticking pins in the doll is not to cause pain in the person the doll is associated with, but rather to pin a picture of a person or a name to the doll, which traditionally represents a spirit. The gris-gris is then performed from one of four categories: love; power and domination; luck and finance; and uncrossing.

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Michael Jordan - Dictionary Of Gods And Goddesses
Nevrom Ydal - Preparing The Ritual Area And Yourself
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Kathryn Paulsen - Witches Potions And Spells
Anonymous - Healing Gemstones And Crystals

Voodoo Magic Spells

The word Voodoo, which has many different names and spellings (like Vodun, Vodou, Voudou, Vudu, Vodoun) is the name of a West African religion. Voodoo is animist and spiritist, and a lot of Voodoo beliefs have to do with ancestor spirits. Some of it is based on Catholic beliefs, but most of Voodoo is from the Fon, Ewe, and Yoruba peoples. The word vodun is the Fon-Ewe word for spirit.

In Voodoo many gods and spirits are prayed to or called on. Both spirits of nature and of dead people are important. The spirits of family member who have died are especially important. Voodoo often has rituals with music and dancing. Drums are used to make most of this music. In Voodoo people often believe that a spirit is in their body and controlling the body. Having a spirit come into is wanted, and important. This spirit can speak for the gods or dead people you love, and can also help to heal or do magic.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Leo Ruickbie - Halloween Spells
Simon - The Necronomicon Spellbook
Anonymous - Hypnotism Spells
Anonymous - White Magic Spells

Voodoo Beliefs And Practices

Louisiana Voodoo is a conglomeration of beliefs that has evolved over time and continues to adapt to its surroundings. As it has been a religion conserved by oral tradition, has no sacred book or canon and is followed by many, the beliefs of Louisiana Voodoo vary somewhat from person to person. Louisiana Voodoo combines elements of African and European beliefs - the latter of which primarily involves Roman Catholicism. It is a dynamic religion that has both adapted to and shaped New Orleans culture.

The word voodoo comes from the word vudu, the Dahomean “spirit”, an invisible mysterious force that can intervene in human affairs.” The worship of spirits remains a vital part of the practices of voodoo in Louisiana. Followers of Louisiana voodoo believe in one God and multiple lesser but powerful spirits which preside over daily matters of life, such as the family, the sky, and judgment.

The core beliefs of Louisiana Voodoo include the recognition of one God who does not interfere in people's daily lives and spirits that preside over daily life. Spiritual forces, which can be kind or mischievous, shape daily life through and intercede in the lives of their followers. Connection with these spirits can be achieved through dance, music, singing, and the use of snakes, which represent Legba, Voodoo's "main spirit conduit to all others." Unlike the Judeo-Christian image, the Voodoo serpent represents "healing knowledge and the connection between Heaven and Earth." Deceased ancestors can also intercede in the lives of Voodoo followers.

The main focus of Louisiana Voodoo today is to serve others and influence the outcome of life events through the connection with nature, spirits, and ancestors. True rituals are held "behind closed doors" as a showy ritual would be considered disrespectful to the spirits. Voodoo methods include readings, spiritual baths, specially devised diets, prayer, and personal ceremony. Voodoo is often used to cure anxiety, addictions, depression, loneliness, and other ailments. It seeks to help the hungry, the poor, and the sick as Marie Laveau once did.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Rodolfo Amadeo Lanciani - Pagan And Christian Rome
Vovim Baghie - The Grand Satanic Ritual
Anonymous - Healing Gemstones And Crystals
Anonymous - Wicca Beliefs And Practices

Use A Voodoo Doll With An Evil Eye Bead To Repel Evil And Negativity

Have you suffered from unexplained distress and misfortune? Having a streak of bad luck? Have you suddenly fallen ill? These are all signs that you may be the victim of an attack by the Evil Eye (Mal de Ojo).

To repel negativity and evil influences from your home and to avoid and remove the Evil Eye, you can use a Voodoo doll that has an Evil Eye bead talisman on it. Get a Voodoo guardian or protector doll with an evil eye bead and place it at the doorway of your home. This Voodoo amulet will also ward off other malevolent dangers, including spiritual attacks.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Samuel Sharpe - Egyptian Mythology And Egyptian Christianity
Gerina Dunwich - Herbal Magick A Witchs Guide To Herbal Enchantments Folklore And Divinations
Paschal Beverly Randolph - Seership Guide To Soul Sight
Lady Sabrina - The Witchs Master Grimoire An Encyclopedia Of Charms Spells Formulas And Magical Rites
Louis Claude De Saint Martin - Man His True Nature And Ministry

The Last Of The Voudoos

In the death of Jean Montanet, at the age of nearly a hundred years, New Orleans lost, at the end of August, the most extraordinary African character that ever gained celebrity within her limits. Jean Montanet, or Jean La Ficelle, or Jean Latanie, or Jean Racine, or Jean Grisgris, or Jean Macaque, or Jean Bayou, or "Voudoo John," or "Bayou John," or "Doctor John" might well have been termed "The Last of the Voudoos"; not that the strange association with which he was affiliated has ceased to exist with his death, but that he was the last really important figure of a long line of wizards or witches whose African titles were recognized, and who exercised an influence over the colored population. Swarthy occultists will doubtless continue to elect their "queens" and high-priests through years to come, but the influence of the public school is gradually dissipating all faith in witchcraft, and no black hierophant now remains capable of manifesting such mystic knowledge or of inspiring such respect as Voudoo John exhibited and compelled. There will never be another "Rose," another "Marie," much less another Jean Bayou.

It may reasonably be doubted whether any other negro of African birth who lived in the South had a more extraordinary career than that of Jean Montanet. He was a native of Senegal, and claimed to have been a prince's son, in proof of which he was wont to call attention to a number of parallel scars on his cheek, extending in curves from the edge of either temple to the corner of the lips. This fact seems to me partly confirmatory of his statement, as Berenger-Feraud dwells at some length on the fact that the Bambaras, who are probably the finest negro race in Senegal, all wear such disfigurations. The scars are made by gashing the cheeks during infancy, and are considered a sign of race. Three parallel scars mark the freemen of the tribe; four distinguish their captives or slaves. Now Jean's face had, I am told, three scars, which would prove him a free-born Bambara, or at least a member of some free tribe allied to the Bambaras, and living upon their territory. At all events, Jean possessed physical characteristics answering to those by which the French ethnologists in Senegal distinguish the Bambaras. He was of middle height, very strongly built, with broad shoulders, well-developed muscles, an inky black skin, retreating forehead, small bright eyes, a very flat nose, and a woolly beard, gray only during the last few years of his long life. He had a resonant voice and a very authoritative manner.

Jean's ideas of religion were primitive in the extreme. The conversion of the chief tribes of Senegal to Islam occurred in recent years, and it is probable that at the time he was captured by slavers his people were still in a condition little above gross fetichism. If during his years of servitude in a Catholic colony he had imbibed some notions of Romish Christianity, it is certain at least that the Christian ideas were always subordinated to the African--just as the image of the Virgin Mary was used by him merely as an auxiliary fetich in his witchcraft, and was considered as possessing much less power than the "elephant's toof." He was in many respects a humbug; but he may have sincerely believed in the efficacy of certain superstitious rites of his own. He stated that he had a Master whom he was bound to obey; that he could read the will of this Master in the twinkling of the stars; and often of clear nights the neighbors used to watch him standing alone at some street corner staring at the welkin, pulling his woolly beard, and talking in an unknown language to some imaginary being. Whenever Jean indulged in this freak, people knew that he needed money badly, and would probably try to borrow a dollar or two from some one in the vicinity next day.

Testimony to his remarkable skill in the use of herbs could be gathered from nearly every one now living who became well acquainted with him. During the epidemic of 1878, which uprooted the old belief in the total immunity of negroes and colored people from yellow fever, two of Jean's children were "taken down." "I have no money," he said, "but I can cure my children," which he proceeded to do with the aid of some weeds plucked from the edge of the Prieur Street gutters. One of the herbs, I am told, was what our creoles call the "parasol." "The children were playing on the banquette next day," said my informant.

Montanet, even in the most unlucky part of his career, retained the superstitious reverence of colored people in all parts of the city. When he made his appearance even on the American side of Canal Street to doctor some sick person, there was always much subdued excitement among the colored folks, who whispered and stared a great deal, but were careful not to raise their voices when they said, "Dar's Hoodoo John!" That an unlettered African slave should have been able to achieve what Jean Bayou achieved in a civilized city, and to earn the wealth and the reputation that he enjoyed during many years of his life, might be cited as a singular evidence of modern popular credulity, but it is also proof that Jean was not an ordinary man in point of natural intelligence.

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Rabbi Michael Laitman - The Open Book
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Signs Of A Voodoo Spell

Symptoms of a voodoo spell can vary in intensity and frequency, depending on the spell caster's skill and the person being bewitched. While there are many who doubt the existence of black magic, some suddenly realize they may be suffering from symptoms of a voodoo spell.

Mental and Spiritual

1. Symptoms of a voodoo spell can affect different areas of life. The first aspects altered by black magic are the mental and spiritual parts. Depending on the length of time the spell has been on an individual, different deterioration levels in these areas can be expected. Many of the initial symptoms of a voodoo spell appear to be stress-related and therefore can be overlooked or misdiagnosed. Initial symptoms are depression, sleeplessness, fatigue and irritability. After time, people find themselves uninterested in life, ignore spiritual obligations, possess a shaken faith, have difficulty praying or meditating, and experience unholy attractions to vices such as sex and drugs.

Physical

2. Symptoms of a voodoo spell then begin to affect the body. A darkening complexion that continues to darken is an obvious giveaway. Obesity, extreme hunger, and a pressing weight on the shoulders, chest and back area are severe physical symptoms of a voodoo spell. There are also specific symptoms that a woman may suffer from if she is a victim. Women experience rape dreams with real orgasms, irregular and painful menstrual cycles, and even the inability to conceive or carry a child to full term.

Finances and Friends

3. After a voodoo spell damages a person's mental and physical well-being, the dark magic starts to affect the victim's external circumstances. Finances begin to suffer with an unexplained absence of funds, sudden unemployment or even physical harm that may interfere with employment abilities. Friends and coworkers begin to treat the voodoo victim with hostility, and eventually the person is left alone to attempt to cope with the continuing symptoms of the spell.

Warning

4. Unexpected violence is very common in those who are experiencing the symptoms of a voodoo spell. The goal of a voodoo spell is to cause pain and misery to the sufferer and often families are hurt as a tool to reach that goal. Often coaxed into horrific acts of self-mutilation or suicide, voodoo sufferers often commit murders or other acts of inhuman cruelty.

Treatments

5. Treatments for symptoms of a voodoo spell are difficult to find because most of the symptoms are attributed to stress-related illnesses. The best way to determine the presence of a voodoo spell is to keep an accurate dream log. This can be difficult because dream blockage is a common symptom.

An accurate date log is also helpful as the symptoms worsen around the full moon cycles. If a visit to a traditional physician's office is ineffective, consider keeping a log and carefully documenting dreams and habits. After gathering enough evidence to prove the existence of a voodoo spell, the next step should be finding a respected witch doctor or magic user who can reverse the spell.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Anonymous - Hypnotism Spells
Ea Wallis Budge - Legends Of The Gods
Austin Osman Spare - The Book Of Pleasure Or Self Love
Simon - The Necronomicon Spellbook

Louisiana Voodoo Also Known As New Orleans Voodoo

Louisiana Voodoo, also known as New Orleans Voodoo, describes a set of underground religious practices which originated from the traditions of the African diaspora. It is a cultural form of the Afro-American religions which developed within the French, Spanish, and Creole African American population of the U.S. state of Louisiana. It is one of many incarnations of African-based religions rooted in West African Dahomeyan Vodun. They became syncretized with the Catholicism and Francophone culture of south Louisiana as a result of the slave trade. Louisiana Voodoo is often confused with—but is not completely separable from—Haitian Vodou and southern Hoodoo. It differs from Vodou in its emphasis upon Gris-gris, voodoo queens, use of Hoodoo occult paraphernalia, and Li Grand Zombi (snake deity). It was through Louisiana Voodoo that such terms as gris-gris (a Wolof term) and voodoo dolls were introduced into the American lexicon.

Louisiana Voodoo and Christianity

As a result of the fusion of Francophone culture and voodoo in Louisiana, many Voodoo spirits became associated with the Christian saints that presided over the same domain. Although Voodoo and Catholic practices are radically different, both saints and spirits act as mediators with the Virgin Mary and Legba presiding over specific activities. Early followers of Voodoo in the United States adopted the image of the Catholic Saints to their spirits.

St. Peter corresponded to Papa Limba, also referred to as Laba. Papa Limba refers to the Dahomean spirit Legba, the guardian of crossroads, gates, and entrances to villages. As St. Peter is known as the guardian of Heaven and is frequently depicted holding the keys to Heaven, his image was combined with that of Papa Limba. Some also associated Papa Limba with the devil. A popular song in Louisiana referring to St. Peter strongly coincides with a Haitian Voodoo song to Papa Legba:

St. Peter, St Peter, open the door,
I’m callin’ you, come to me!
St. Peter, St Peter, open the door,

Papa Legba, open the gate for me, Ago-e
Ativon Legba, open the gate for me;
The gate for me, papa, so that I may enter the temple
On my way back, I shall thank you for this favor

The serpent is the central figure of New Orleans Voodoo. Known as Li Grand Zombi, the serpent also became associated with Saint Patrick. Traditionally, St. Patrick expelled all snakes from Ireland, and is frequently depicted standing on or brandishing his staff at a snake. During a Voodoo ritual, the Voodoo queen focuses on the snake as she acts as diviner or prophet for the rest of the members of the rite.

Other Catholic practices adopted into Louisiana Voodoo include reciting the Hail Mary and the Lord’s Prayer.

A common misconception of Louisiana Voodoo is that its relationship to the Catholic Church is one of opposition. The similarities between Voodoo and Catholicism are what kept African beliefs from dying out as they did in other areas of the world. Historically, there has been little hostility between followers of Catholicism and Voodoo in New Orleans. Although Voodoo later experienced opposition from Protestant churches, its relationship to the Catholic Church has always been amicable. Today, most followers of Voodoo also practice Catholicism and see no conflict between the two religions.

Books You Might Enjoy:

William Godwin - The Lives Of The Necromancers
Sri Swami Sivananda - On Darwin Evolution And The Perfect Man
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How To Make A Voodoo Doll Without A Kit

Voodoo dolls have in popular culture been associated with revenge and evil spells to attack people, but in reality these dolls were most often used in magic aimed at healing, finding love, protecting or bringing prosperity. You don't need to purchase a kit to make a voodoo doll, as you can make them with common materials that are easy to find and use. Here is an example of two different forms of voodoo dolls.

Voodoo Doll Making Guide.

Make Voodoo Doll In Traditional New Orleans Style

Step 1. Take two sticks, one about 1/3 shorter than the other, and form a cross with them. Use twine to tie the sticks together where they cross.

Step 2. Wrap the sticks with dried Spanish moss or other dried herbs or grasses. If you prefer, you can just use some pillow stuffing.

Step 3. Starting from the bottom, wrap a strip of fabric around the stick, moving upward. Criss-cross as you get to the horizontal sticks, covering the "arms" with fabric as well. Continue wrapping up to the top to create the "head" of the doll out of fabric. If you prefer, you can fashion a small head out of clay around the top of the stick.

Step 4. Wrap twine or thread around the doll to bind the wrappings. Add details if you like, in the form of feathers or flower petals for decoration, or beads or seeds to create features on the face.

Make Simple Voodoo Poppet

Step 1. Get a template for a human form, such as for a paper doll, and cut it out. Trace the form onto two square pieces of fabric and cut them out.

Step 2. Lay one fabric doll on top of the other and begin stitching the edges together, going all the way around, except for the top of the head.

Step 3. Turn the form inside-out. Stuff it through the opening in the head with herbs, dried flowers or leaves; Spanish moss; or any type of stuffing you wish. Then sew the head closed.

Step 4. Add details if you wish, such as stitching fabric on it for clothes; sewing beads or bits of yarn to it to create features; or gluing seeds, feathers or flower petals onto it. Decorate it however you would like.


Tips And Warnings

* Look at some pictures of voodoo dolls on the Internet to inspire you in decorating your own voodoo doll.



Books You Might Enjoy:

Michael Ford - The Book Of The Witch Moon
Thomas Voxfire - What Was Aleister Crowley
Archmage Bob Andrews - Old Witchcraft Secrets
Robert Mathiesen - Magic In Slavia Orthodoxa The Written Tradition

How To Cast A Evil Voodoo Spell

While magic seems trivial or even silly to most people, it isn't. Magic pervades in our everyday lives. If you have ever witnessed a strange event or experienced a strange sensation for which you have no explanation or wanted something so badly that you willed it to happen, these are magic experiences.The exciting part is that it can be controlled and used to your advantage.

While there is white and black magic, it is the black magic---sometimes termed as evil magic or voodoo---that allows us to cast spells that have almost immediate results. white magic is fine and likely more healthy for you, but there is no doubt that there is a certain allure to being able to cast an evil voodoo spell. Not only is the involvement in black magic fun, but it can help you acquire some of the things in life that you need right now.

With the economy in shambles and so many people down on their luck, it's a wonder that more people aren't exploring the use of magic to help affect their lives. While it is a challenge, casting an evil spell can be done and you can learn exactly how to do it.

Instructions:

1. Step 1

Choose your evil voodoo spell. There are several resources on the Web to choose the exact spell you want to use. The website Arcane-archive (see Resources below) is a great place to get a list of evil voodoo spells and the exact instructions on how to cast them. You'll need candles, a doll or even some blood. For the sake of this article we will use the "Death" spell.

2. Step 2

Gather a possession of the victim. Most evil voodoo spells also require something of the person on whom you are casting the spell. This can be in the form of a hair clipping, an article of clothing or something that will not be missed by the victim.

3. Step 3

Find a quiet place to do the ritual, preferably on a moonlit night. You will need a black candle, some needles, chalk, some flammable liquid such as lighter fluid and a sharp knife.

4. Step 4

Cast from your magic circle. Almost all spells should be cast from the protection of a magic circle. A protective Magic Circle can be drawn on the ground, in the sand, or even painted onto an article of fabric. Most protective magic circles are done in black and white, although colors can be used. In casting your evil spell, you will be calling forth many evil forces that could potentially harm you.

5. Step 5

Fashion a doll effigy of the victim using something flammable. Tissue paper works great.

6. Step 6

Light your black candle.

7. Step 7

Draw an image of the Satanic baphomet (an idol) on the ground in front of you. You can actually use any image you desire, such as a skull and crossbones. The more evil, the better!

8. Step 8

Place the doll effigy in the center of the image you just drew and invoke Abaddon the Destroyer. You should use something that you've written yourself for this invocation. The more personal the better. You should take a firm, strong tone. Be confident and state your reasons why Abaddon should help you. It is almost like a job interview where you want to succeed badly, and you will convince your potential employer in any way you can to help you.

9. Step 9

Direct all the rage and hatred you can muster into the doll effigy. You can even give it the finger, make gestures and speak to the effigy. After all, this is the person that has caused you so much pain in your life and it is time you told them what it's all about.

10. Step 10

Plunge your needles into the doll--first in the abdomen, then the head and finally the heart.

11. Step 11

Using the knife, cut the doll from head to groin, connecting the needles like dots.

12. Step 12

Place the doll effigy back into the image and set it ablaze, calling on the spirit of Abaddon to help you.

13. Step 13

Go have a beer. After all, you deserve it. You just set in motion the demise of your most hated enemy. While the curse might not take effect right away, the seed you have placed will take root and grow. And you probably feel much better after casting the spell.

Tips & Warnings

* You must always remember to be careful in casting an evil voodoo spell. When drawing upon the dark powers from beyond this world, you will be putting yourself at risk. These come in the form of evil spirits that you are trying to control to do your bidding. If you cast your spell incorrectly, you are opening yourself up to potential dangers and ill luck. Whatever your reasons for wanting to cast an evil voodoo spell, always be careful and follow directions to the letter. Don't be lazy when it comes to the details. Casting an evil voodoo spell can be fun, but don't let your ego get the best of you. While you can certainly be a force in this world, you are nothing compared to the forces of the netherworld.

Books You Might Enjoy:

Phil Hine - Aspects Of Evocation
Pamela Ball - The Ultimate Book Of Spells.pdf
Miyamoto Musashi - A Book Of Five Rings
Anonymous - Book Of Spells
Rw Rogers - Adapa And The Food Of Life

How To Build Voodoo Dolls

Voodoo is a religion that originated in the Caribbean. It was brought to the United States via the slave trade and took root in New Orleans. One of the best-known--and most feared--symbols of voodoo is the voodoo doll. Popular culture tells us that these dolls are to be used against enemies, to bring them bad luck, physical injury or even death. But this is only one use of a voodoo doll. They are more commonly used by the faithful to focus energy and bring about positive results with money, luck, health and love. Made from whatever material their creators have on hand, they may seem simple or crude, but voodoo dolls are not toys. Whether you believe or not, be careful with how you use them. Learn how to build a voodoo doll of your own.

1. Step 1

Decide what sort of doll you'd like to make. What purpose will it serve? This decision will influence your choice of materials. Dolls have been made of corn husks, paper, tree branches, clay and cloth, to name just a few materials. Try to select material that has some relevance to the doll's intended function. You cannot mess this up. Whatever you choose will be the right thing.

2. Step 2

Make the skeleton. Generally made from wood such as branches, pencils or dowel rods, two pieces of material are bound together with twine, string or thread to form a cross. Natural material is preferable, but use what you have. This will be the body of the doll. Decide which stick represents the head and feet, and which represents the arms.

3. Step 3

Cover the skeleton with some type of stuffing, be it cotton batting, feathers, shredded cloth, paper, moss or raffia.

4. Step 4

Cut a piece of fabric large enough to cover the doll completely, and drape it across the stuffing. The color of the cloth should reflect the purpose of the doll. If you're making a love doll, dress it in red, as red attracts love and passion. Yellow brings about success. Green is used for money and good luck. Black makes your enemies go away. Brown will bring you good luck in court. White stands for protection and peace. Natural fibers (such as hemp or muslin) bring about general good fortune. If you're trying to hex someone, try to use a piece of their clothing.

5. Step 5

Wrap the material around the doll. Use twine or ribbons to create a torso, head, arms and feet. Draw on the face.

6. Step 6

Embellish the doll with ornaments and decorations that directly relate to its purpose. Popular decorations include feathers, glitter, jewelry and buttons. For example, a good-luck money doll, dressed in green (of course), could have a coin for a head or money attached to the body. Or you could draw dollar signs on the fabric. A love doll should have a heart sewn or drawn on the chest. If the doll represents a specific person, you can use beads and yarn to create a face. Be sure to call it by the name of the person it is supposed to represent.

7. Step 7

Baptize your doll. If the doll is to be used to hex someone, it is common practice to baptize it prior to use. Say the following while dunking your doll under water, "I baptize you, (name of the doll), in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."

Remove the doll from the water and complete the ritual by saying, "In life, you are now that who I wish you to be. All that is done to you will happen to (name of the doll) in the world as I command it. I now control the desires, dreams and ultimate fate of (name). Their life belongs to me. May (name) see no pleasure or profit from their life or endeavors unless I deem it so."

Tips & Warnings

* If you can sew, a simple voodoo doll can be made by simply stitching two pieces of fabric together and drawing on the face. Voodoo dolls can bring things to you, but they can also take things away. To make a person go away, attach something from them (hair, clothing, nail clippings) and pin it to the doll.
* Be careful what you wish for.


Books You Might Enjoy:

Anonymous - The Ripley Scroll
Rw Rogers - Adapa And The Food Of Life
Aleister Crowley - The Book Of Lies
John White - Toward Homo Noeticus
Anonymous - Book Of Spells

Haiti Voodoo

PLAINE DU NORD, July 26 (AP)—Carrying candles and a heavy spiritual debt, Josephine Derulien walked for 17 hours to reach this small farming town, swollen by thousands of people during an annual four-day pilgrimage.

The pilgrimage, one of the most important in the Voodoo religion, began Wednesday with rituals to Ogou, the god of war, and ended Saturday with rites to the goddess of love, Erzuli. This year’s crowd of more than 10,000 was half the turnout of last year.

"I swore I would make this pilgrimage," said Derulien, 30, wearing a blue dress with a red kerchief, the traditional colors of Ogou. "I had a problem and it was solved. Now I’m here to pay my debt."

Although millions still practice Voodoo—now a state-sanctioned religion in Haiti—some are turning their backs on the religion brought from Africa, testing other faiths as their Caribbean nation grapples with growing instability and poverty.

An estimated 70 percent of Haiti’s 8.8 million people practice Voodoo to some extent, including many who claim to be Catholic or another religion.

But a growing number, estimated at 30 percent, identify themselves as Protestant, said Andre Corten, a Canadian sociologist. This smaller group adamantly oppose Voodoo, which is spelled Vodou in the French and Creole spoken in Haiti.’

Voodoo requires sometimes pricey offerings to a pantheon of gods. In a country where most people survive on less than $1 a day and where the government hasn’t managed to improve conditions, the draw of a cheaper religion is powerful.

Thousands of missionaries—many American—can be seen everyday in Haiti proselytizing and trying to draw people away from Voodoo. Many flock to evangelical Christian churches instead of Voodoo temples.

"The economic stagnation has cast a shadow over Voodoo," said musician and Voodoo priest Ronald "Aboudja" Derenencourt, 48.

One young girl selling bananas along the pilgrimage route, about 6 miles south Cap-Haitien on the north coast, pleaded with pilgrims to reject Voodoo.

"Voodoo is no good," said Rose Jean, 12, whose family of six are evangelical Christians. "They don’t recognize Jesus."

The Catholic Church in the 1940’s waged a campaign to eradicate Voodoo. Although unsuccessful, the religion was driven underground for years and disparaged by foreigners as a hodge-podge of beliefs.

In April, however, the Haitian government officially sanctioned it, allowing priests for the first time to legally perform marriages.

Many Voodoo practitioners have been wary of the step, fearful it was taken to woo them to the government of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, whose popularity is waning with hard times.

"Here we pray to everybody. Some pray to St. James, others to Ogou," said Jean Joseph, 45, a farmer who made the pilgrimage but prayed at the town’s Catholic church. "You serve God or the Devil as you like."

Not far from the church where Joseph and other others prayed, men and women stripped down to their shorts, and plunged into a shallow mud basin. They emerged in a trance and said they were transformed.

"When I come out of the basin, I tremble. I feel the might of Ogou, who empowers me all year long," said Voodoo priest Harvey Dorvil, 31.

Around the basin, Voodoo priests, priestesses, and witchdoctors congregate, on the lookout for patients, whose ills they claim they can cure with spells and herbal remedies.

Merchants sold everything from radios and clothing to straw hats and religious items like candles, perfumes, amulets, and images of the saints.

Most seek help for money or love troubles. Derulien, like many, wouldn’t say what she had asked Ogou for.

"Voodoo is our family faith," said Roseline Pierre, a 25-year-old student nurse from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., who was born in Haiti. "Its spirituality is powerful. You just have to dig deep enough."

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California Man Convicted After Voodoo Curse Inexplicably Fails In Fraud Case

Ruben Hernandez, 34, was convicted this week of fraud in a house buying scheme but not before he tried some extra-judicial remedies of his own. Hernandez was found to have performed a voodoo ritual to place a hex on the prosecutors. They survived and Hernandez was convicted.

A search of his home revealed a shrine with voodoo dolls dunked headfirst in cups of water with pins in their eyes. The case number and names of the prosecutor and investigators were reportedly written on the dolls. It is a ritual performed by followers of Palo Mayombe, a religion that is popular among drug dealers and is known for its animal sacrifices.

Hernandez was convicted of four counts of filing a false application and three counts of grand theft. Judge Lance Ito (yes of OJ Simpson fame) sentenced Hernandez to 12 years in prison but he still faces an additional 28 counts, including charges of grand theft and filing a false application, for allegedly engaging in fraud at his used-car dealership.

That is a lot of wax for the next round and prosecutors may want to brush up on their Cole Porter:

Why, when you appear,
something happens to me
and the strangest feeling
goes through me?
You do something to me,
something that simply mystifies me.
Tell me, why should it be
you have the power to hypnotize me?
Let me live ‘neath your spell,
Do do that voodoo
that you do so well.

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Another Day And Another Democratic Voodoo Outrage

As the epidemic of voodoo and witchcraft threatens to engulf our nation the Obama campaign has yet to to respond. Why is the Obama campaign remaining silent on the issue of witchcraft in America? What are we to infer from his guilty silence?

Obama has no strategy to deal with witchcraft, indeed if Obama does get elected anybody could become the victim of a voodoo attack – what will Obama do to curb rampant witchcraft and voodoo on the streets of America? In an Obama presidency, almost anybody could fall victim to a voodoo curse – people like Woody Thompson, a patriotic Republican whose only crime was to run for public office:

Cobb County GA, Democratic Commissioner Annette Kesting today repeatedly denied accusations from a South Carolina “voodoo priestess” that Kesting wrote $3,000 in bad checks for the woman’s services.

George Ann Mills said Kesting approached her at home in Blythewood, S.C., in late August seeking otherworldly help against Republican Woody Thompson, who beat Kesting in the primary runoff vote for the District 4 seat representing southwest Cobb.

Unlike Obama, John McCain and Sarah Palin, by contrast have promised to make witch-hunting a priority – it’s the number three issue after fighting the war on terror and ending abortion. If elected Senator McCain will appoint Governor Palin to be chief witch-finder. She will organize the biggest ever witch-hunt in Washington to purge our Capitol of voodo-priests and fake Christians such as Barrack Hussein Obama.

Fact File: It’s not racist to point out that Negros may be practicing voodoo and witchcraft in your community today. If you see an African American speaking quietly to himself he could be casting a voodoo curse on you or you or your kids. What have the Democrats in Congress done to protect us from this threat: Absolutely nothing.

America once had a proud tradition of witch-hunting – but the liberal elite have conspired to end this traditional practice. As a result our witch-hunting expertise has been lost. The liberals want us to think that it’s OK to be a witch and cast curses. To them witchcraft is just another “lifestyle” to be celebrated in their orgy of multiculturalism.

This is probably what Barrack Hussein Obama looks like when he wears the ceremonial costume of a voodoo priest.

We at STR feel that it is a national embarrassment that in order to control the epidemic of witchcraft we may have to import experts from other nations, particularly Africa where Sarah Palin’s Pastor Muthee has been waging a one-man war against the godlessness of his fellow Negroes. While we dislike the idea of even more immigration, it is plan to see that the Demoncrats have left an entire nation vulnerable to the curses of witches.

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A Healing Grove African Tree Remedies And Rituals For The Body And Spirit

Book: A Healing Grove African Tree Remedies And Rituals For The Body And Spirit by Stephanie Rose Bird

I believe the hallmark of a great book is that you finish it satisfied but yearning to learn more about the subject. The additional resources, organizations and companies that all would further personal study are listed in the extensive bibliography and reference section. Just a peek at the additional resources available whet my Intellectual appetite for more knowledge. Needless to say, this book will remain in my permanent reference library and I will refer to it often. The included glossary is great, and I think it could be extremely valuable for the novice reader of the subject of natural healing arts to start their study with the glossary. Its so comprehensive, the beginning student will learn many of the herbal basics right here.

The residents of the U.S. in particular and the Earth in general are beginning to understand the serious consequences of our overconsumption and misuse of chemicals, synthetic hormones and processed additives. Our health would be better served by the use of more natural and easily renewable compounds. In fact, it's actually in vogue now to move towards a more renewable and natural lifestyle. The author of A Healing Grove; Stephanie Rose Bird, is willing to share her vast and fascinating study of healing with us. If the reader has any interest in natural and complementary medicine, healthy and natural products, greener living in general or African American history, you will find tons of useful Information , plant and tree knowledge and just interesting reading in this comprehensive work. Stephanie is a practicing herbalist and aromatherapist, and a gifted writer. Her easy, sharing style of writing is like a conversation with a good friend. Her attention to detail, intimate insights and caring nature are wonderful and so evident in her writing.

I've been a long time student of alternative, herbal and holistic healing and this book really opened my eyes to the study of African American healing. I had some knowledge of the use and Understanding of use of bark in healing and health, but no idea of the vast potential it had.

Reclaiming traditions based on plants and herbs has never been more important than it is today. Widespread use of chemicals, hormones, and additives introduce unknown substances into our bodies. On a larger scale, our future on the planet depends on our ability and willingness to incorporate earth-friendly practices into daily life. Where better to look for natural remedies and soothing rituals than Africa? It is, after all, the Mother Continent, allegedly the birthplace of the entire human race, and the keeper of ancient earth knowledge.

No newcomer to these traditions, Stephanie Rose Bird explores the practical uses, spiritual traditions, and historical aspects of trees in the heritage of African Americans and offers ways to rediscover and implement natural practices in twenty-first-century daily life. The topics she covers are as diverse as a wood should be, including everything from hunting, gathering, and processing to natural divination, omens, signs, and forest medicine for wellness and beauty. A Healing Grove will lead not only to personal healing but also to a lifestyle that will heal our earth.

Buy Stephanie Rose Bird's book: A Healing Grove African Tree Remedies And Rituals For The Body And Spirit

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Uc African Magic Traditional Ideas That Heal A Continent

Book: Uc African Magic Traditional Ideas That Heal A Continent by Heidi Holland

This book, like no other, provides an excellent Understanding of how magic is a part of peoples everyday lives, in everyday language without the anthropological speak. In it, you will see magic from the eyes of an african. Africa's traditional beliefs, including ancestor worship, divination and witchcraft, continue to dominate its spirituality. Readers in search of a better understanding of the continent will be enriched by this book's timely Exploration of sub-Saharan Africa's natural philosophy.

I cannot recommend this book more. I am surprised this book is not more readily available.

Buy Heidi Holland's book: Uc African Magic Traditional Ideas That Heal A Continent

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How To Apply To Become A Voodoun On Cajun Nights

Below are a list of questions for you to answer in application to becoming a voodoun character on Cajun Nights:

1. Are you intending to be a regular voodoun (non-clergy) or an initiated Clergy? (houngan/mambo)
2. What levels of Knowing will your character have? Remember that all non-initiated characters can never have greater than 3 levels of Knowing for any one Orisha.
3. What Orisha will be your principle Patron (if any)?
4. Explain how your character came into this Relationship with the Orisha. Was it a traditional way (your family was involved with voodoo), or a more esoteric path? (you read a book on voodoo, or visited New Orleans as a child and an Orisha Touched you, or you
interacted with a Manifest orisha without knowing)
5. Describe your relationship with all the Orisha you have. What is it like? Strained and conflicted, melancholy and distant, close-knit and harmonious, or intermittent?
6. What is your character's opinion on Petro magic versus Rada magic (violent, negative curse magic versus healing, positive magic)? Is this character eligible for beginning points in Hex as a result?
7. Describe how your character integrates her voodoo life with her more mundane life, if she has one.
8. Describe your character's chiefest fear having to do with Voodoo.
9. Describe how you feel about other voodoun.
10. Describe how you will interact With Other voodoun in New Orleans, now that the Drought is over.
11. What Mojo-rituals do you want for your character? Mojo-rituals are ritualistic Things That serve your Orisha which give you points of Mojo energy.
12. If you've chosen the Heirlooms background, what voodoo Heirlooms do you have?

Special questions for Clergy Only:

1. Who initiated you? Answer as many questions from the section above about this person as you can.
2. What Patron Gift do you want?
3. What will be your principle place of worship/practice (hounfor)?
4. Where will your primary altar be located?
5. What, if any, Workings do you have that are still in force?

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The Spiritual Guide The Rich Treasure Of Internal Peace

Book: The Spiritual Guide The Rich Treasure Of Internal Peace by Michael De Molinos

This document is a transcription of an English Translation of The Spiritual Guide by Miguel de Molinos The English translation was published in London, in 1688, and is a translation of an Italian edition published in Venice, in 1685. The English translation has the author as “Dr. Michael de Molinos”. The transcription was performed in November and December of 1997, from a microfilmed copy of the 1688 English translation.

The Book that is here presented ye, is a Translation from the Italian Copy, Printed at Venice in 1685. The first Man that got it, with difficulty, out of the Authour’s hands, and then had it Printed at Rome in 1675, with all the solemnity of approbations, was Fryer John of St. Mary, who styles himself Provincial; and he speaks very fine things of it, and he had so heartily read it over, that the impression which it made in his Mind, gave him the exact cue and knack of that sort of Language which the Author uses, when he throws himself headlong into darkness and obscurity: And when this Man had recommended the Book to the sincere Reader, after his way; the next that appears to give a Grace to it, is no less a Man, than the Most Illustrious and most Reverend Lord, the Archbishop of Rhegium, who tells us how many great Offices in the Church he had pass’d through; he says in his Approbation of the Book, that ‘tis a hard matter to make a judgement of it, without some experience of the things contained in it: And that how high soever the secret of it be above all humane Discourse, yet they are not only not contrary to the right dictates of Reason, but altogether conformable to it: Which is as fitting a Preface to some things in the Book, as any man in the World could have made with the Study of Seven Years: First, to say that these sovereign Secrets, which the Book treats of, are above all human Discourse; and then in the very next words, to say they are conformable altogether to the dictates of Reason: as if the dictates of Reason and human Discourse had entered into a Combination never to come to a right Understanding of one another.

He that would be further satisfied of the fitness of this Archbishop’s Character to the Book, will be gratified, by reading patiently some things of the Nineteenth and Twentieth Chapters of the Third Book: But ‘tis enough, that this great Man speaks well of his Countryman Molinos’s Doctrine, that ‘tis according to the judgment of the holy Fathers, and the usual way of Mystical Divines, he says again, that the Author of this Book, does not speak his own Capricios, but follows the footsteps of the Ancients, and builds upon their Principles, and spiritual Foundations, that he reduces ‘em to a right and clear Method, bringing forth (says he) out of his Treasures, things new and old; And for the Stile of the Book, he allows it to be clear, easie, plain, and full in such crabbed hard and lofty Subject; adding withal, that the Man doth not decline Proofs of Scripture, Doctrines of the Fathers, Decrees of Councils, nor the
Principles of Morality, and therefore he judges it to be a useful Piece, and very worth to be Printed: and what can be said more to set any Book off. Next to the Archbishop’s Approbation, in comes that of Fryer Francis-Mary, Minister
General of the whole Franciscan Order, given from his Convent of Ara Coeli, who speaks mighty kindly and favourably of the Book, & recommends it to the Press.

Download Michael De Molinos's eBook: The Spiritual Guide The Rich Treasure Of Internal Peace

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Ritualcraft Creating Rites For Transformation And Celebration

Book: Ritualcraft Creating Rites For Transformation And Celebration by Azrael Arynn

This is extremely informative AND entertaining to read! It's a hefty book and its packed with excellent ideas for rituals, as well as some interesting Historical facts about different kinds of rituals from various cultures. I can't say enough, that if you're interested in learning more about rituals, or if you're a ritual crafter yourself, you won't regret buying this book.

This is the book on ritual that we have been needing for years. Whether you are new to ritual, or an adept ritualist, there is something in here for everybody. As a Witch, Priest, and teacher, I found this book to be a treasure. This book will not only teach you how to create rituals, but it also walks you through the parts of ritual, and prompts individuality in their creation. Plus, the authors share their own wonderful (and horrible)experiences, making this book down to earth and real.

A great reference book to add to your bookshelf! Amber and Azrael have done it again! Thanks for publishing this very useful book! Very highly recommended!

Azrael Arynn K is a third-degree Wiccan Priestess and High Priest of the Coven of Our Lady of the Woods, and has also held offices in the Covenant of the Goddess. She resides in New Mexico, where she is both Facilities Director and Dean of the School of Sacred Living at Ardantane Pagan Learning Center. She co-authors books on the Craft with Amber K, and travels and teaches widely throughout the United States.

Amber K is a third degree priestess of the Wiccan faith. She was initiated at the Temple of the Pagan Way in Chicago and served on the Council of Elders there. Her books on magick and the Craft have been widely circulated in the United States and Europe, and for nearly 25 years she has traveled across the U.S. teaching the Craft. She has worked with Circle and the Re-Formed Congregation of the Goddess, and served as National First Officer of the Covenant of the Goddess for three terms. She is a founder of Our Lady of the Woods and the Ladywood Tradition of Wicca, and currently is Executive Director of Ardantane, a Wiccan/Pagan seminary is northern New Mexico.

Buy Azrael Arynn's book: Ritualcraft Creating Rites For Transformation And Celebration

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Hoodoo Voodoo And Conjure A Handbook

Book: Hoodoo Voodoo And Conjure A Handbook by Jeffrey Anderson

The author of this well-put-together book knows that the occult practices imported from Africa to the New World, especially the Caribbean and, although widespread in its influence, has not been well documented in the academic world. Therefore, Professor Anderson has collated what does exist, written informative essays to cover broad general areas, explained what is and is not clear or available in the current literature, and given extensive Bibliographies for researchers and interested students to follow up on and do larger studies in the future.

This is a good reference book for learning about the practice of these three nontraditional healing, helping, and harming techniques. . . . The work provides an in-depth look at the practices. It can serve as somewhat of a how-to guide for anyone interested in becoming involved with them. . . . The book serves as a teaching tool that explains which herbs or portions to use for various needs. . . . The volume is Recommended for religious or medical collections focusing on nontraditional Spiritual practices. Its accessible style makes it a good source for interested general adult readers as well.

Buy Jeffrey Anderson's book: Hoodoo Voodoo And Conjure A Handbook

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