There’s a difference of opinion when it comes to determining and describing what a Book of Shadows (or Grimoire) and Book Of Shadows spells actually are. This is partly because of the references to it in popular culture. TV shows such as the
successful “Charmed” series and the movie Blair Witch Project among others.
For example in Charmed, the three sisters heavily used their own family Book Of Shadows throughout the show. Hence many people think that this particular book of shadows is the only one and merely part of the story.
What is a Book of Shadows?
To phrase it very lightly, a Book Of Shadows is a magical journal plotting a path. It keeps a record of and contains details of a witch, wizard, or magician's progression throughout their life.
This journal can be the record of an individual, a group or coven, and even a family. Contents vary, but mostly they contain spells, rituals, observations, thoughts, reflections, creeds, stories, and poetry.
A Book Of Shadows can also be passed on through the generations. Therefore it has the potential to build up, record, and acknowledge extremely powerful and magical ideas and items. Sometimes over centuries! Other times, however, depending on the secrecy of the owner, these books are purposely destroyed. This is usually done by burning them so that no one else can get their hands on them. Personally, I feel this is a tragedy and much magickal wisdom and essential information is lost this way.
So, for the most part, a Book of Shadows is mainly used for three things:
Most importantly, it keeps a record of all spells and the associated details for them. This includes how it is cast, with what utensils or ingredients, progress, and results. It also includes ways to reverse the spell in case things go wrong or its work is completed.
Secondly, a Book Of Shadows tracks magical and shamanic research. Magicians, witches, and wizards constantly research and reflect upon what they have done. As well as what they are searching for and aiming to do.
Thirdly, it should help preserve the magick for the future. As said above, how awful it is when crucial information is lost or destroyed simply out of secrecy or greed.
So, how should you make your Book Of Shadows?
One of the great things about these books is that they are so personal. They can be made in any way you feel is right. It depends on your personal choice and, of course, how you treat the journal in the eyes of the future. As for the magick itself, a notepad or ringed binder and any other volume will work. I, however, personally believe that magick is unique. With that in mind, a Book Of Shadows should have some allure, respect, appreciation, and beauty. Something that symbolizes the care, passion, and appreciation you have for your craft, your coven, and your overall journey!
For this, I feel an old-style leather-bound volume etched or decorated with your chosen symbols or Witches Creed containing strong, thick pages is best. Again, think about the future for a moment. Would you instead hand down a heap of notepaper in a binder? Or perhaps a volume filled with character and beauty that makes people go oooooh in wonder when they see it?
Book of Shadows with Lock Clasp – Vintage Leather
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And what should go in it?
Again, this is entirely up to you! Of course, it will mainly contain your Book of Shadows spells. These will be built up and added to over your whole life but in getting started, here are a couple of ideas:
A good protection spell, a love spell, a healing spell such as a good health spell or a remove harmful energy spell, and a good luck spell, among others. These will get you on the right track and ensure you give out the right energy. They also protect you from harmful energies.
Other familiar additions to your book are:
A copy of your chosen Witches Creed
Your magical name, the reasons why you chose it, and what you are aiming to accomplish
Anything Else?
A calendar that contains all sorts of important magical dates such as Esbats and Sabbats, Halloween, Yule, and Beltane, as well as your local and other important regional or international moon cycles.
Herbal Lore and other tables, appendixes, or correspondences. This is very useful when detailing specifics regarding ingredients and items used in your spells and rituals.
Divination and Spell Casting are essential to record so as always to be aware of what worked and what did not, what you are predicting, and the outcomes of previous predictions.
As much as possible, your Book of Shadows should be handwritten, especially in areas of significant personal detail and the likes of your Witches Creed. It is okay to have typed or printed material in there, but again, just for cosmetic value and to provide greater belief and authenticity for yourself and the future. Handwriting is best particularly so if you are skilled in a lovely cursive or, even better, old-styled calligraphy.
In conclusion…
At the end of the day, your Book of Shadows spells and other contents really is up to you. It is your journal or your Wiccan and other magick journey. It is not only your living, breathing, working tool of your trade but also a vitally important preservation of your work and experiences that will hopefully be handed down and added to for centuries.
Click the item below to have a closer look at some real magic spells that really work – the perfect addition to your Book Of Shadows!
Book Of Shadows - 150 Spells, Charms, Potions and Enchantments for Wiccans
Unleash the Forces of Nature with Our Spell Book for Wiccans: Powerful Enchantments and Charms
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