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Calling Corners, Casting a Circle

Gregory — Sat, 20 Sep 2025 19:18:46 +0000

People always ask about calling corners like it is a magic switch. I tell them it is not so simple though it is straight-forward. Calling corners creates sacred space, protective, alive, and responsive. A circle is not flat like a plate. It is a living sphere that surrounds us above, below, and all around.

Why I Call Corners

Because I like my magic to work, I always call corners. Circles are not always required, but they matter. Beginners especially need circles. Calling corners creates an enclosed environment, sealed from everything unhelpful.

Consequently, only what we allow enters, and only what we send out passes through.

Think of the circle like a sacred bubble. Therefore, everyday noise stays outside, and the work stays nice and clean.

Calling corners and casting circle are performed differently in various traditions and cultures. While this may seem like a lot, it’s actually pretty simple: cleansing/clearing the space, striking the divine light, calling the corners, invoking deity and casting circle.

This article is a bit lengthy, but only due to my explaining things as detailed as I can.

Calling Corners and the Nature of the Sphere

When I cast, I never imagine a flat ring. Instead, I create a full sphere that grows around me. Because of that, the space feels whole. It exists outside normal time and space, sealed from distraction.

I make it just large enough to fit the work. Sometimes it fills the room. Consequently, I never waste energy building something larger than needed.

Calling the Corners for Beginners

Because new witches crave structure, I always recommend calling the corners. It gives practice, grounding, and discipline. Consequently, you learn how to hold space before attempting riskier workings.

You may one day choose to work without a circle. However, calling the corners first will teach you control. It prevents distractions, protects your focus, and reinforces that the sacred space belongs only to you.

Preparing the Space

Some of my besoms

Before I cast, I prepare. Because chaos never helps, I gather every tool I need. I cleanse with sage, a besom, or sound. I strike Divine Light, then form the Instant Alpha Trigger. With hands sweeping down, I anchor into ritual awareness.

If you are unfamiliar with making an instant alpha trigger (to induce a state of alpha brainwave).

Check out these two articles: Alpha Brainwave which explains this brainwave in relationship to witchcraft. Meditation for Witches: Alpha Trigger explains how to create and reinforce a psychological trigger to achieve this state at will.

Striking Divine Light

Wooden match in hand, in a state of alpha, I light the match and speak as I light the altar candle “I strike this candle with Divine Light, light of Dryghten, the Dark Light from which all came forth.” That flame is later carried to all other candles in the working area, clockwise.

Striking the Divine Light; I am referencing Dryghten. Dryghten (also spelled Dryghtyn) is an Old English word meaning “Lord,” and in some Wiccan traditions it names the supreme, universal deity. Rather than being a personal figure, Dryghten is often viewed as an impersonal, pantheistic, or monistic presence—the source from which the God, the Goddess, and all other deities emerge.

Over time, practitioners and writers have connected this concept with other names for the ultimate divine. Scott Cunningham, drawing on Neoplatonism, spoke of it as “The One,” while others refer to it simply as “The All,” an all-encompassing, impersonal divinity. In certain pagan contexts, the Sanskrit word “Akasha,” meaning “aether,” is used to describe the same omnipresent spiritual energy that threads through existence.

Feminist Wiccans, including Starhawk, have evoked the image of the “Star Goddess” as the universal creator, and the phrase “Ancient Providence” occasionally appears in blessings as another way of invoking Dryghten. I am not wiccan, just a plain old witch.

From there, I connect with each element.

Elemental Connection Before Calling Corners

As I stand before the altar, now in a state of alpha, I first feel my roots, see them running deeper and deeper into the earth.

I say, “I am connected to the earth.” Roots spiral downward, and I send some energy back upward to air.

I say, “I am connected to the air.” Branches spiral upward, and I send some energy downward to earth.

I say, “I am connected to the fire.” Flames spiral clockwise, and I send some of that energy outward toward water.

I say, “I am connected to the water.” Waves spiral inward, and I send some energy outward toward fire. I feel all these energies spinning and spiraling through me.

Finally, I affirm, “I am connected to all things,” (I visualize and fathom the universe, The All and this earth and everything in and on it. “I am life,” (I see my own energy pulsing). “I am power,” (I will it and see my aura change, normally it is a green and gold fire) … Next, I am magic (with an astral hand, without moving my physical body, I inscribe a clockwise pentacle in the air.

What the Corners Really Are

When I say calling corners, I mean I am calling elemental energies, not elementals. In this instance, the corners represent the forces of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water moving into balance.

The corners are sometimes called guardians or watchtowers. They can also be worked with as spirits, angels, dragons, demons, faery folk, or whatever powers align with your path.

I stay with the raw elemental energies unless the working calls for specific guardians.

Call upon and summon what you will, but I advise you do your homework first.

You may also want to build relationship aforehand too. Take the time to learn about those dragons, angels or elementals.

Show respect in all aspects of summoning.

Do your research, consider corresponding offerings for the four guardians you intend on calling upon.

Paracelsus’ Elementals

Paracelsus’ elementals.

In some traditions, Paracelsus’ elementals are called upon. In the lore of alchemy and hidden wisdom, the 16th century Swiss alchemist Paracelsus spoke of spirits born from the raw fabric of creation, beings he called elementals. Each was bound to one of the four great forces that shape existence.

Beneath the earth move the Gnomes, guardians of stone and seed, said to hide both treasures and secrets in the dark places below. Flowing with rivers and tides are the Undines, water-spirits who embody love, intuition, and the mysteries of the deep. High upon the winds dance the Sylphs, airy beings of breath and inspiration, stirring dreams and guiding the currents of sky. And within every flame burns the Salamander, fierce and radiant, carrying the power of transformation and will.

Paracelsus taught that these beings belong wholly to their elements: a Gnome cannot live in fire, an Undine cannot take to the air. Yet together they form the living weave of earth, water, air, and fire—the eternal companions of those who seek to understand and work with the elements.

For some, this is a great way to visualize and focus on the elements.

Altar Correspondences for Elements

My altar fully loaded.

Outside the basic elemental forces, I consider correspondences. The right correspondences strengthen the working and ground the intention. On my altar, starting at North and moving clockwise,

I set salt for Earth, a cauldron for Fire, a bell for Air, and a chalice for Water. Some will use additional color-corresponding candles in the quarters/corners, or images of Paracelsus’ elementals, perhaps corresponding images or figures of angels, dragons etc.

Of course, let’s not split hairs. A cauldron or a chalice can represent any or all of the elements. A candle to most is fire, but others will want to have it represent all four elements.

I burn things in my cauldron, so for me it embodies Fire. A chalice might hold salt water, wine, or even a crystal, so it flexes too.

The point is intention, not rigid props. Go to bargain hunt and argue about a sticker price if you are argumentative, I’m not having it.

If you need, we have ample altar supplies here on our site, and in our metaphysical shop.

Traditional Order and Variations

Traditionally, many witching cultures and paths call the elements in the order of Earth in the North, Air in the East, Fire in the South, and Water in the West. East connects with Air because of breath and morning breezes. South connects with Fire because of heat and passion.

However, some of us associate East with Fire, the rising sun, manifestation, and enlightenment. Because of this, I sometimes alter the order to match how energy feels to me in practice. Authentic witchcraft adapts to both tradition and personal connection.

Calling Corners Step by Step

There are many methods, again partly depending on what your are calling for, angels, dragons, spirits, elemental energies or elementals. I recommend basic elemental energy for beginners. But there are also many ways of calling/opening portals, target areas where you wish the energies to come.

First, I always have mapped out different circumferences. I measure, I walk it, I make note of “landmarks” in the four directions.

The simplest is using your receptive hand while focused in a direction of that energy, standing in the center of what will be your circle/sphere. Call those energies to gather where you will them too. Another method, much more complex, using the athame, drawing counter clockwise pentacles to open portals, and clockwise pentacles to close them.

I typically use an open hand, my receptive one, and sometimes hold my pentacle altar tile while summoning. For very serious magic workings, it’s the athame and tracing pentacles. A counter-clockwise for summoning, clockwise for banishing (widdershins or deosil, respectively.)

It may also depend on tradition, magical culture and personal path.

Start with the North. I face North, extend my receptive hand, and speak.
“Guardians of the North, Powers of Earth, Foundation. We respectfully summon you, and bid you joyous welcome. Come, join us Old Friend. Welcome Earth.”

I visualize green and brown energy forming in the North like a ball of energy.

Calling the Corners of East, South, and West

I turn East, visualizing the North energy fixed in place. When done properly, I actually do see that ball of earth energy fixed in place, even when I turn with my eyes closed. “Guardians of the East, Powers of Air, Faculty. We respectfully summon you, and bid you joyous welcome. Come, join us Old Friend. Welcome Air.”

I turn South, visualizing both Earth and Air. “Guardians of the South, Powers of Fire, Creation and Destruction. We respectfully summon you, and bid you joyous welcome. Come, join us. Welcome Fire.”

I turn West, visualizing Earth, Air, and Fire. “Guardians of the West, Powers of Water, Mystery and Depth. We respectfully summon you, and bid you joyous welcome. Come, join us. Welcome Water.”

Now all four elemental guardians stand in place. I always pause and feel for each energy as I call them, once I sense them, then I add “welcome, earth” etc. It really is weird but wonderful, when I turn and call these corners with my eyes closed and see these balls of energy.

Invoking Hecate

Because calling corners sets the stage, I then invoke deity. I light the candle, burn herbs, and pour libations. You do not have to or necessarily need to invoke deities when calling the corners and casting circle. And the deities you choose to invoke require their own accolades, placations, offerings and correspondences. These are simply who I honor and am honored by.

In this picture on the left is one of the oldest symbols for female.

For Hecate, I speak: “Mother Night, Goddess Bright, Queen of Heaven, Queen of Hell, Mother of the Craft, Protector of Witches, Queen of Ghosts, Keeper of Hell’s Keys, Bringer of Storms. Mighty Hecate, I honor you.”

Offerings for Hecate: dandelion, garlic, myrrh, mugwort (black sage), and wine.

Invoking the Horned God

This picture is one of oldest symbols for male.

I then invoke the Horned God: “Father Dark, God my Spark, Lord of the Land, Who corrects my aim and teaches me to Hunt, Master of the Wilds, Guardian of Strength, Bringer of Balance, Lord of Light and Dark who prepares my hands for war but my heart for peace. Great Horned God, I honor you.”

Offerings for the Horned God: white oak, frankincense, cedar, barley or bread, and ale.

These are but very simple ways to honor and invoke these deities. Trust me, there are much greater rituals than this, but this is a good place to start.

I also keep corresponding statues of gods and goddesses on my altar. If you feel called to work with a deity, look through our occult books, Greek, Egyptian, Celtic, Norse – we have oodles.

Magic with gods and goddesses can run deep and be very profound and effective. What I have shown you here is to simply honor them and garner blessings.

Casting the Circle Proper

Because intention needs action, I then cast. I form a triangle by touching index fingers and thumbs to create a triangular/spade shape. I hold this before my navel to gather energy inward. Although it resembles Yoni Mudra, this is not yoga. It is a witchcraft gesture. It reclaims energy and centers me.

I then say, “Guard our hearts, protect us well. With this I cast my circle and start the spell.”

Because sound carries power, I ring the altar bell over the candle. Not just once either, I keep ringing it. I visualize energy along with the sound waves, a sphere, turning and growing clockwise. The energy grows until it’s boundaries touch where the guardians hold their posts, and deity watches. The space hums with power. Once the boundaries are reached with energy and sound, I stop ringing.

The Circle as a Living Sphere

I never picture the circle as flat. Instead, it expands in every direction, above and below. Because of this, I live within a sacred sphere, protected and whole.

This sphere exists outside normal time and space. Therefore, only what I allow enters, and only what I send out leaves. Consequently, the work flows clearly and without interference.

Your circle can be as small or large as needed. I tend to cast it just big enough to accommodate the work area.

There are other traditions where more than one practitioner is involved, sometimes each responsible for one corner or element.

Closing the Circle After Work

When finished, I thank the guardians. With hands open, I say, “North, South, East, and West, all did come, all did bless. Go if you wish, stay if you will, either way, be at peace.”

I recognize deity with gratitude and perform the reverse, male deity first, then female. Now I make the male and female signs “Father Dark, God my Spark, Great Horned God – Mother Night, Goddess Bright, Mighty Hecate.”

I form the Triangle again and gather energy back. I say, “You guard our hearts, protect us well, we thank you! With this I close my circle and end the spell.”

I ring the bell again, visualizing the sphere collapsing counterclockwise until it shrinks to a spark. It winks out, scattering stars, poof!

Some say it is not a good thing, dangerous even, to let a circle degrade on it’s own. I agree. The energy that remains can be like a beacon to other beings, and as it degrades, something could enter that space. I always dismiss and close properly, even though my home and property are well-protected.

Final Thoughts on Calling Corners

So in recap and in order: it’s cleansing/clearing the space, striking the divine light, calling the corners, invoking deity/deities and casting circle.

I call corners not because it is pretty, but because it works. Circles create focus, protection, and the sense of stepping outside the ordinary. It keeps unwanted energies and vibrations from interfering.

Sometimes my circle is no larger than my desk. Sometimes it holds a full group, even encompassing most of my house. Always, it remains only as large as needed.

Beginners benefit most from circles. Calling corners offers structure and confidence.

With practice, you may set them aside for some routine workings. Until then, call them, work within them, and let them teach you.

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Eight of Wands

Gregory — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:29:08 +0000

The Eight of Wands shows fast motion and clear flow. Things shift quick and stay direct. This card brings speed, progress, messages, and rising momentum. You see delays fade while energy starts to move with purpose. Many readers view this card as a sign to act soon.

With my P.E.N.S.I. method it is a lot easier to learn tarot. You learn its Position in a spread, its Fire Element, its Numerology, its Symbolism in motion, and its Intuition. This method keeps card study clear and steady and with P.E.N.S.I. you are making associations rather than endless memorizing.

Eight of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

The Eight of Wands in a spread brings speed. It shows things moving fast. It often marks change you cannot slow. Depending on where in a spread, the nuances and context will change. Past, present or future? Or what is simply on the mind. Once I have covered all the cards, we will dive into spreads.

2nd Layer of Context: Element of Fire

Although this card holds Fire energy, it stays direct and intense. Also, Fire moves quick and creates strong shifts. Then it fuels drive and sparks new action. Next, remember the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson and think passion and career. So passion shows what we love to build or create. Finally, career shows long-term focus, while passion shapes projects we truly want to do.

3rd Layer of Context for Eight of Wands: Numerology of 8

Remember from the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, eight is like “halfway there” and always implies some struggle. Hard to get halfway there and look how much farther to go. But eight also speaks to some stamina too, In the eight, we start to wonder if should we go a different direction, or if we are going in the right direction. In the eight, we are often waiting for something before we continue.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

The eight wands fly through open sky. They never touch the ground and show clear direction, quick travel, and events in motion. They do look like they are headed somewhere specific though, and will find their target. Their arrival would be the end of their movement, right? So, this card screams a swift conclusion to a matter.

It also speaks to movement, possibly travel, especially through the air. When I notice this pops up with a six of swords, it really speaks to actual travel. Lastly, how about successful spell work manifesting? Oh yeah!

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

Trust the pull to move. Let the rush guide you. You can act with purpose while things open with ease. I often get psychic information with this card that says “hold on to your butt”, stuff is about to change because this situation is coming to a close. You will be free to act, or are free to act, depending on where in a tarot spread it falls. I often know it comes through an email or a phone call too.

Reversed Meaning

Reversed, the Eight of Wands slows down. Delays appear and plans may stall. Messages may miss or shift. You pause and check your path. You use this time to correct course and clear your space. If find when it comes up reversed, people feel so stuck in a situation that just seems to drag on and on. The real way to correct it is to plan and bust a move.

Sympathetic Decks

I find that almost all the decks I look at, regardless of era seem to show similar imagery. A bunch of wands flying in swift. Typically the skies are clear and the weather looks great and usually the scene in pleasant. I get a kind of “glad” feeling from the image, like being happy about this swift conclusion to whatever matter. Not that I might totally agree with the outcome, but glad to have a conclusion.

Correspondences

Planet: Mercury
Sign: Sagittarius
Element: Fire
Number: Power
Golden Dawn: Lord of Swiftness

Tarot Spell: Eight of Wands

Place the Eight of Wands on your altar, then sit with the card and feel its fast push. Write one clear goal. Burn a small Fire-safe note while holding the card. Move the smoke forward with your hand. This sets the motion and aligns your path. Claim a swift conclusion to the matter.

Tarot Spell: Eight of Wands (Reversed)

Enchant a black chime candle for banishing a block. Place the Eight of Wands reversed before you. Sit still and breathe slow. Write one delay or block. Set the note under the card. Let the card hold the issue while you clear space. Let the candle burn to finish. You flip the Eight upright when you feel flow return and let it remain while the candle finishes.

Final Notes and Conclusion

The Eight of Wands arrives when change moves fast. You decide the aim.

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Five of Wands

Gregory — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 11:25:45 +0000

The Five of Wands hits with noise and friction, and conflict waits in each corner. It is easy to learn this card with my P.E.N.S.I Method First, this card brings heat that forces growth through struggle. Next, it pushes you to face truth instead of hiding. Tension rises fast, and it refuses to soften. Still, you learn what you want when everything feels loud.

This post uses my P.E.N.S.I Method Position, Element, Numerology, Symbolism, and Intuition to build a full picture of the card, and it gives structure. Next, each layer adds shape, meaning, and guidance, and you can use it right now.

Five of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

We are not concerned with position in a reading just yet. In the future, I’ll be doing lots of spreads. But for now, for a little context, it’s going to be about clashes at work or on creative projects.

This card drops when voices collide, and it demands your full attention. Next, it shows stress, rivalry, and strong wills that clash hard, so courage matters. Then, it asks you to choose action instead of silence, and it reminds you to move. Still, it suggests that chaos can build strength when you stay grounded, and it pushes you to hold steady. Finally, it points to hard talks, group challenges, or inner storms, so presence matters.

How do you remember that? Well, don’t memorize, learn to associate instead. If you have not, read the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, it will help you make sense of tarot cards much easier.

2nd Layer of Context: Element is Fire

In P.E.N.S.I., fire is passion and often career and creative endeavors. It’s all about what we are passionate about. Very simple. Remember, fire maybe destructive, but it is always creating. One thing falls away or is undone, and something new is created that takes its place.

First, the Five of Wands lives in Fire, and it speaks with bold force. Next, this element burns with passion and sharp truth, so it clears confusion. Then, it pushes movement when things feel stuck, and it wakes sleeping power. Still, conflict flares because each person holds strong need, so tension builds. Later, Fire clears the air and forces honesty, and it strips away lies. Finally, it brings heat that shapes strength, not ruin, so power grows.

3rd Layer of Context for Five of Wands: Numerology of Five

Five in P.EN.S.I. is always about sorrow, loss, regret or all three. And this always precedes a better time, and one should have hope of better. First, five marks change and the breaking of old patterns. Next, it pulls you from comfort and shakes loose what no longer fits. Then, it shows a turning point when struggle must lead to motion. Still, it teaches that change feels rough before it feels right. Finally, it calls for courage and clear direction, so you can rise.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

First, the raised wands show challenge and clashing goals. Next, the scattered ground shows weak footing, so balance matters. Then, the open sky shows space to grow. Still, the bodies in motion show skill built through effort, so practice counts. Finally, the bright colors show energy that refuses to dim. This is along the lines of generic descriptions found in guidebooks.

But if we examine the symbols with a lens of “actual life”, that is all true, but I get a lot more out of it. Knowing this is about passion, creative projects, career matters, ask if it looks like people are getting along. I do not think so. It looks like conflict, not war, but conflict.

I see conflict, disagreements, challenges like petty squabbling in the workplace or in a coven or tight social group. There is a real need to put some serious effort into problem solving.

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

First, listen close because the Five of Wands pushes honesty. Next, step forward instead of stepping aside. Still, speak what burns inside you, and hold your ground without cruelty. Finally, trust your fire, so strength leads you.

When all the factors of P.E.N.S.I. come together, you get the above. But, more specific, I often know there’s a clash of creative ideas, everyone pushing their ideas to the point of bruising other’s egos. I challenge the client I am reading for to take leadership, acknowledge other people’s ideas, give them kudos. Strive to see how all those ideas can work together, the sum of the ideas are greater than the ideas alone.

Reversed Meaning

First, when reversed, tension turns toxic, and peace breaks down. Next, it shows shouting without reason and battles without aim, so you must stop wasting strength. Still, reset the field before blame grows. Finally, step back and choose calm, so truth can breathe. It still warrants taking a leadership role, and a higher road.

Sympathetic Decks

In its era, this would have been about serious business, and grand projects with large scale. But in this day and age it can fit just about any work environment or creative group. This card pairs well with decks that show sharp lines and bold color but whose art includes heat, motion and real bodies.

All versions of the Rider–Waite deck have depictions of five “combatants”. The deck I use the most these days and professionally, (Ellen Dugan’s Witches’ Tarot) features dragon riders, but again, it’s not war, just competition of egos that is unhealthy for the group.

Correspondences

Planet: Saturn
Sign: Leo
Element: Fire
Number: Conflict
Golden Dawn: Lord of Strife

Tarot Spell: Five of Wands

First, place the Five of Wands card before you, and set a candle just above it to call in fire. Next, stand with your feet firm and hold a wand or branch in your strong hand, so your body feels grounded. Then focus on the card and speak the conflict aloud and let your voice shake loose blocked heat. Strike the ground once and name the result you choose, so the action becomes real.

Finally, let wax fall near the card without touching it, and thank the flame for the strength now set in motion. Think conflict resolution, and a meeting of the minds, an acceptable agreement.

Tarot Spell: Ace of Wands (Reversed)

First, place the Five of Wands card face up beside a bowl of water, so calm surrounds the fire. Next, write each conflict you must end on a small slip of paper, and speak them with steady breath. Then rest your fingers on the card and read the list aloud, so the tension leaves your body.

Fold the paper tight and drop it into the water, and watch the words soften. Finally, tilt the card away from you and walk forward without looking back, so release becomes truth. Use this spell when you seek an end to a conflict you believe will not end but need to walk away from.

Final Note

First, the Five of Wands asks for bold strength. Next, it shows struggle that teaches power through fire. Still, you rise when you move with purpose. Finally, choose battles with care, and step forward with intent.

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Today’s Featured Deck

Discover deep truth and hidden beauty with the Dreamkeepers Tarot, a surreal and symbolic deck by visionary artist Liz Huston. Inspired by the classic Rider-Waite system, this deck offers timeless wisdom through bold, dreamlike images. Because it taps into the subconscious, each card encourages personal growth and deeper self-awareness.

The Dreamkeepers Tarot reflects Huston’s own spiritual healing journey. As a result, the deck carries layers of emotional insight and mystical symbolism. Although rooted in tradition, it also presents fresh artwork made just for this edition. You’ll find each image layered with alchemical meaning, emotion, and transformation.

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Four Elements in Witchcraft

Gregory — Wed, 21 May 2025 13:30:08 +0000

How often have you heard the four elements, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, referenced alongside witchcraft? Probably countless times. Across history, nearly every culture named these as the core elements. The ancient Sumerians were the first to really give them focused attention.

Everything on Earth—and in the cosmos—has its own vibration. Every stone, tree, and being hums with infinite frequencies. Additionally, like-vibrations resonate and build collective consciousness. That’s not just poetic—it’s metaphysical physics.

I’ll get into how witches harness the elements soon, but come on—you know me. We’re doing history first.

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The Four Elements: Ancient Influences

Let’s be honest—Sumerian mythology didn’t exactly hand us a tidy four-element diagram. However, elemental forces still shaped their cosmic worldview. For example, the Enuma Elish tells of a universe born from a chaotic sea. So yes, water took center stage early, even if fire, earth, and air lagged behind.

– The Enuma Elish (Akkadian Cuneiform: 𒂊𒉡𒈠𒂊𒇺), often translated as “When on High,” is a Babylonian creation myth from the late second millennium BCE. Named after its opening line, it remains the only fully intact account of ancient Near Eastern cosmology.

Later thinkers, however, got more system-oriented. The ancient Greeks took these chaotic forces and said, “Let’s categorize.” Thus, fire, water, air, and earth became the standard model for explaining… well, everything. Feeling irritable? Too much fire. Can’t make a decision? Clearly an air imbalance.

Eventually, Hermeticism appeared and gave the four elements a spiritual upgrade. This tradition, pieced together from Egyptian mystery schools and Greek philosophy, absolutely adored symbolic frameworks. Hermes Trismegistus—yes, that Hermes—gets credit for highlighting the spiritual value of these elemental forces. The Hermetic Principles play a huge role in witchcraft, the four elements are naturally incorporated in them too.

Naturally, Hermetic thinkers didn’t stop there. They expanded the idea into alchemy, Kabbalah, and nearly every form of Western occultism. Because obviously, the elements are too convenient not to use for explaining soul paths, planetary magic, or Tuesday’s mood swings.

In short, the Sumerians didn’t invent elemental diagrams, but they absolutely sparked the concept. Later cultures just added drama, symbols, and fire—lots of fire.

Gnomes, Sylphs, Salamanders, Undines

I deeply respect Hermeticism—don’t get me wrong. But I suspect humanity knew about these elemental forces long before Hermes branded them. Still, Hermes Trismegistus did frame them with far more spiritual depth and philosophical flair.

In many magical traditions, especially Western occultism, people often refer to the four elements using mythic entities. So yes, you’ll see Gnomes (Earth), Sylphs (Air), Salamanders (Fire), and Undines (Water) pop up. Eventually, you’ll run into them in spell books or rituals—and probably ask, “What the heck is a Sylph?”

While the concepts are ancient, are these specific elemental beings? Not so much. Paracelsus, a 16th-century Swiss physician and alchemist, made them trendy. He didn’t invent them—but wow, did he run with the idea.

His Book on Gnomes, Sylphs, Salamanders and Undines didn’t just introduce elemental spirits—it basically became the textbook. Thanks, Paracelsus. Seriously.

The Four Elements in Witchcraft

So, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water aren’t just poetic—they’re essential. You literally can’t live without all four. Consider this: you’re made of minerals (Earth), you breathe air (obviously), you burn energy (Fire), and you’re mostly water (hello, 70% hydration).

Some practitioners also refer to a Fifth Element—not the movie. It’s Aether, or Spirit, and it ties everything together. It’s also referred to as “The Will” or “To Go”. So now, congratulations—you’ve got a metaphysical explanation for the five points of the pentagram.

In witchcraft, the elements move beyond biology. They shape your practice, your energy, your intention. That’s where the real magic begins. Here is a super-simple breakdown of elemental correspondences.

Earth: Often associated with grounding, stability, practicality, and the physical world. It also corresponds with money, prosperity, fertility and growth among other things. Earth “rules” over jobs, employment and everything else listed here in the Tarot.
Air: Represents communication, intellect and reasoning. It also corresponds with ideas, philosophies, justice and legal matters among other things. Air “rules” over intellectual struggles, and the conflict that arises from these things and our own truths in the Tarot.
Fire: Symbolizes energy, passion, transformation, and the ability to ignite change. It also corresponds with inspiration, creativity, war, lust and passion among other things. Fire “rules” over careers and passions in the Tarot.
Water: Linked to emotions, intuition, and the subconscious. It also corresponds with divine feminine energy, goddess, psychic talents and experience and dreams among other things. Water “rules” relationships of all kinds in Tarot.

When casting a spell, I often focus on one element more than the others and sometimes attempt a real equal balance of elements. A witchin’ tip from me; cascarilla (eggshell powder). Eggshell corresponds with all four elements and brings great strength to any spell.

Calling Corners and Casting Circle

I will write an entire separate article on calling corners and casting circle soon but just want to explain the elements in this concept.

The corners are the four cardinal directions and people will argue about which element corresponds best with which direction. Widely accepted: Earth (North), Air (East), Fire (South) and Water (West).

In my own practice though, Fire and Air are switched, Fire is East and Air is South. My reason for this is that the East is associated with the rising of the sun, enlightenment. As the sun rises its fire warms the earth, flowers open and everything seems to just come alive. It just makes greater sense to me.

The idea is to open a portal one at a time in each cardinal direction and call upon the corresponding element to come take its place. This is to help guard the circle and lend that energy to the work. You could also say to witness the work too.

These corners, these four directions and corresponding elements are also referred to as Guardians, sometimes Watchtowers. For these energies (and sometimes entities) a witch can conjure simple elemental energy, or elementals, angels, dragons or other spirits.

Four Elements on the Altar

In most witchcraft traditions and cultures, there are witch tools on the altar placed in the cardinal directions that correspond with these elements. See my article about altar setup to learn more.

I use a special stone ritual bowl and salt for the North (Earth), a cauldron for the East (Fire), a ritual bell for the South (Air) and a chalice for the West (Water).

In addition, while an altar has an altar candle, sometimes candles that correspond to the individual elements are also placed in those corners.

I do that too sometimes; it depends on the work I am doing.

Sometimes I move the altar to the center of the room and place markers and color coordinated candles at those markers. Again, it depends on the magic I am performing.

Choose corresponding colors for each candle, and many will carve a symbol for that element on the candle. A step further is dressing each candle with corresponding herbs and oils.

We have a lot of herbs on our site, 1 oz packets, 2 oz packets and bulk 1 lb. herbs. We also have hundreds of essential oils, different brands and bulk oils too.

In closing, you can also meditate on each element, see how it might be out of balance, too much focus or perhaps neglect.

It can also help you to understand the elements with regard to tarot suits too.

Earth for “social, family and money”, Air for “Struggles of the mental plain and communication”, Fire for “Passions and creativity” and Water for relationships, emotions and all matters of psychic talents.

Check out the Divination category and also my P.E.N.S.I. method to learn tarot easily.

This can help bring your life into a better, healthier balance. I suggest you start with this instant-alpha brainwave meditation.

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Four of Wands

Gregory — Sun, 09 Nov 2025 18:08:05 +0000

The Four of Wands shows a moment of joy, stability, and shared support. This card often appears when a foundation is strong enough to celebrate. It marks times when work has paid off and community or home life feels steady and warm. This card’s meaning is derived from my method: P.E.N.S.I.

This post uses P.E.N.S.I., meaning Position, Element, Numerology, Symbolism, and Intuition. By exploring each layer, we see how the Four of Wands speaks to grounding joy and simple peace.

If you have not, read the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, it will help you make sense of tarot cards much easier.

Four of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

In a reading, the Four of Wands signals a time of recognition and rest. You reached a milestone that deserves acknowledgment. Also, this card shows that your environment supports your growth. It invites you to trust your stability and enjoy where you stand.

2nd Layer of Context: Element of Fire

This card belongs to Fire. While Fire usually pushes movement, here the flame steadies. The heat turns into hearth warmth. Also, the element reminds you that joy grows when tended. The Fire here invites celebration, not rush. Remember in P.E.N.S.I fire is passion and often involves career, but always passion.

3rd Layer of Context for Four of Wands: Numerology of Four

The number four represents structure, home, foundation, and reliability. Also, it speaks to calm after initial effort. Four asks you to notice what is working. Stability allows creativity and connection to grow further.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

The card’s decorated arch suggests a threshold. It marks the crossing from effort to ease. Also, figures celebrating in the background show shared joy, not solitary gain. Togetherness and belonging are highlighted. This is the typical blah you will find in many books.

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

When this card appears, notice where your life finally feels lighter. Your spirit may want to breathe and enjoy the present. Also, trust that your joy does not need to be earned twice.

When I put all the above together, I know they are celebrating a big-ticket item, there’s cause for celebration. Could be a wedding, an addition to the family, perhaps a child, paying off a mortgage, buying a new home, or landing that dream job!

Reversed Meaning

Reversed, the Four of Wands suggests hesitation in celebration. Also, you may fear the good moment will not last. Likewise, you may struggle to feel at home or at ease. Therefore, connection needs time and honest presence.

But sometimes, that’s not what I get, I get a “surprise celebration”, so you should still act surprised!

Sympathetic Decks

Likewise, decks with warm colors, village scenes, or festival imagery work well with this card. Also, it resonates with decks that show shared joy, meals, and welcoming spaces. My Witches’ Tarot Deck has four lovely ladies in dresses that correspond to the elements, dancing merrily.

Correspondences

Planet: Venus
Sign: Aries
Element: Fire
Number: Stability
Golden Dawn: Lord of Perfected Work

Tarot Spell: Four of Wands

Light a small candle and sit in a space that feels safe. Say aloud one thing you are proud of. Then say one thing you welcome into your home or heart. Let the candle burn for a short time while you breathe gently.

Tarot Spell: Four of Wands (Reversed)

Hold a small stone in your hand. Say one place in your life where tension blocks ease. Then breathe slowly and imagine warmth moving into that place. Keep the stone on your altar or desk until the tension softens.

Final Notes and Conclusion

The Four of Wands teaches that peace is part of the journey, not a reward withheld. It invites recognition of small joys and shared comfort. Also, the card encourages trust in the structures you have built. Celebration itself can be healing.

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Today’s featured deck

Tarot Cards and Guidebook, yes, that is what this set is actually called! You would think they could have been a bit more creative with the title, but I love this deck, simple and beautiful.

Tarot Cards and Guidebook offer a simple and empowering way to explore the world of tarot. This complete deck and book set helps you connect with intuition and insight while enjoying the learning process. Because each card tells a story, you can discover patterns, meanings, and energy through guided interpretation. Therefore, this set invites beginners and seasoned readers alike to deepen their spiritual connection.

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Litha Summer Solstice

Gregory — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 15:53:05 +0000

Every year, around June 20th or 21st, the Litha Summer Solstice arrives with the longest day and shortest night of the year.

For Pagans and witches, this marks Litha, the point when the Sun reaches its greatest strength and the growing season stands in full bloom.

At first glance, it seems like a simple celebration of sunlight. However, the summer solstice carries a deeper lesson.

While the Sun stands at its peak, the wheel has already begun to turn. From this day forward, daylight slowly decreases as we move toward autumn and eventually the Winter Solstice.

In other words, nature celebrates victory and whispers a reminder that every peak eventually gives way to change.

Nature is subtle like that. Humans, on the other hand, usually require several obvious warnings and a personal crisis.

Litha Summer Solstice Sabbat

Litha is one of the eight Sabbats observed within the modern Wheel of the Year. It falls between Beltane and Lughnasadh and represents abundance, vitality, fertility, success, and the power of the Sun.

Unlike some Pagan festivals that focus on beginnings, Litha celebrates fulfillment. Seeds planted in spring have become thriving plants. Projects began months ago have gained momentum. Life appears vibrant, active, and productive.

Yet the Solstice also contains a paradox. Although the Sun reaches its greatest height, its dominance begins to fade almost immediately afterward. Therefore, Litha reminds us that growth and decline often exist side by side.

This balance between celebration and awareness remains one of the season’s most important spiritual lessons.

Ancient Roots of Litha

People have celebrated the Summer Solstice for thousands of years. Long before modern calendars existed, ancient cultures tracked the movement of the Sun and organized their lives around seasonal cycles.

Stonehenge in England remains one of the most famous examples. Its alignment with the Solstice sunrise continues to attract visitors each year. Likewise, many ancient monuments throughout Europe, Asia, and the Americas reveal similar solar alignments.

Agricultural societies depend on these seasonal markers. Farmers needed to understand planting and harvest cycles, while communities relied upon predictable seasonal patterns for survival.

As a result, Solstice celebrations often included feasts, rituals, music, dancing, offerings, and public gatherings. These events honored the forces that sustained life and strengthened community bonds.

Although technology has changed dramatically, human dependence on nature has not disappeared. We simply hide it behind grocery stores, climate control, and delivery apps.

Litha Summer Solstice, The Sun’s Peak

Astronomically speaking, the Summer Solstice occurs when the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere reaches its maximum tilt toward the Sun. This creates the longest period of daylight and the shortest period of darkness of the year.

Many people mistakenly assume the Solstice is the hottest day of summer. However, that is rarely the case. Because land and water require time to absorb and release heat, the warmest temperatures often arrive weeks later.

This delay is known as seasonal lag. The Sun may reach its highest point in June, but the accumulated heat continues building throughout much of the summer.

For witches and Pagans, this astronomical event serves as a powerful reminder that causes and effects rarely occur at the same moment. Energy builds over time. Actions create momentum. Results often arrive later than expected.

Nature demonstrates this principle constantly if we pay attention.

Fire Festivals

Fire has long served as one of the most important symbols of the Summer Solstice. Throughout Europe, communities lit great bonfires to honor the Sun’s power and encourage prosperity, protection, and fertility.

In some traditions, people jumped over fires for luck or blessing. In others, villagers carried torches through fields to encourage healthy crops. Certain regions even rolled burning wheels downhill to symbolize the Sun’s journey across the sky.

These customs reflected more than superstition. Fire represented life, transformation, purification, and the visible power of the Sun itself.

Litha is not one of the four fire festivals, however, even though fire is a huge symbolism during the summer solstice.

Modern practitioners continue many of these traditions in adapted forms. Bonfires, candle rituals, lanterns, and solar symbols remain common features of contemporary Solstice celebrations.

Fortunately, most of us can honor the Sun without recreating every historical fire-related decision our ancestors made.

That is probably best for everyone involved.

The Wheel of The Year

The Summer Solstice occupies a unique position within the Wheel of the Year. It stands as both a culmination and a turning point.

At the Spring Equinox, daylight and darkness balance before the light begins to dominate. Beltane follows with themes of fertility, passion, growth, and creation. Then Litha, the summer solstice, arrives as the height of solar power.

Afterward, the wheel gradually shifts toward harvest.

Lughnasadh celebrates the first harvest. Mabon marks the Autumn Equinox and the return of balance between light and dark. Samhain honors ancestors and the thinning veil between worlds. Eventually, Yule arrives with the Winter Solstice and the rebirth of the Sun.

Therefore, Litha serves as a bridge between expansion and harvest. It celebrates achievement while preparing us for the next stage of the cycle.

Visit the Celtic Holidays category page for more about these holidays and explore the holidays specifically.

Solstice Customs

Traditional Solstice customs vary widely across cultures, yet many themes remain remarkably consistent.

People gather outdoors. Communities share food. Families celebrate abundance. Rituals focus on gratitude, protection, and blessings for the months ahead.

Many practitioners rise before dawn to greet the Sun. Others create flower crowns, decorate altars, gather seasonal herbs, or host community gatherings. Seasonal foods such as berries, honey, bread, and fresh vegetables often appear at Solstice feasts.

Additionally, some magical traditions suggest that herbs collected on the Solstice carry enhanced spiritual potency. Whether viewed symbolically or literally, these practices encourage people to engage directly with the season.

That participation matters. Spirituality becomes much more meaningful when it involves actual experience rather than endlessly collecting information about experiences.

Witchcraft

For witches, aside from Litha, the Summer Solstice provides excellent opportunities for magical work related to success, confidence, prosperity, protection, creativity, and personal empowerment.

Solar energy traditionally corresponds with courage, leadership, clarity, vitality, and illumination. Consequently, many practitioners perform spells designed to strengthen goals already in motion rather than initiate entirely new ventures.

I often view Solstice magic as a checkpoint rather than a starting line. It provides an opportunity to evaluate progress, celebrate accomplishments, and make adjustments before the harvest season arrives.

Common correspondences include sunflowers, oak, St. John’s Wort, calendula, gold candles, fire symbolism, and solar imagery.

Of course, no herb, candle, crystal, or ritual substitutes for effort. The universe has many wonderful qualities, but completing our unfinished projects generally is not one of them.

Lessons of Light

Beyond its rituals and celebrations, the Summer Solstice offers several enduring spiritual lessons.

First, abundance deserves recognition. Too often, people focus entirely on what remains undone while overlooking what has already been achieved.

Second, every peak contains the seeds of change. Even as daylight reaches its maximum, its decline has already begun.

This reality does not diminish the celebration. Instead, it makes the moment more meaningful.

Third, balance requires awareness. Growth without reflection creates exhaustion. Reflection without action creates stagnation.

The Solstice encourages both gratitude and movement.

These lessons appear all throughout nature. Consequently, they remain just as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.

Final Thoughts

The Summer Solstice celebrates more than sunlight. It honors the rhythms that shape life itself.

It reminds us to recognize abundance, appreciate growth, and understand that every season serves a purpose.

Whether you observe Litha through ritual, gather around a fire, watch the sunrise, or simply spend time outdoors, the Solstice invites you to reconnect with the natural world.

The Sun may stand at its highest point today. However, the deeper wisdom lies in the turning of the wheel itself.

Everything changes, moves and returns in its season.

Thankfully, nature manages this process remarkably well without consulting social media first.

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Nine of Wands

Gregory — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 18:10:16 +0000

The Nine of Wands is read through the full P.E.N.S.I. structure: position, element, numerology, symbolism, and intuition all point to earned endurance. This card appears after repeated effort, when strength exists but has been tested.

If you have not, read the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, it will make learning tarot so much easier. Less memorizing, more associating. It marks the space between persistence and depletion. The lesson is not about pushing harder, but about standing with awareness and choosing what still deserves protection.

Nine of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

Upright, the Nine of Wands basically shows resilience after struggle. You are tired, guarded, and still standing. Reversed, it reflects burnout, mistrust, or defending yourself beyond what is useful. These nuances can be different depending on where the card falls in a spread; past, present, future? Or how about with regard to love, money or desire? We are not in spreads yet, but will provide many and context in future articles.

2nd Layer of Context: Element of Fire

Remember, in P.E.N.S.I, wands, the element of fire is all about passion, and career! We choose a career because we are passionate about it. That’s different than a mundane job we do just because we have to. So, always remember fire is always about passion. This is fire kept alive through discipline. Energy remains, but it must be conserved. Reckless action drains what is left.

3rd Layer of Context for Nine of Wands: Numerology of Nine

Nine represents the final stage before completion. A cycle is nearly finished. One last challenge asks for patience instead of force. In P.E.N.S.I. think 7, 8 and then 9. Nine is like the destination, the manifestation of a path or direction, we know the energy of the eight before it and the ten after it. Please do read the numerology section in the original lesson to make sense of this.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

In the Rider-Waite-Smith decks, we see a figure, bandaged head, leaning on a wand, eight more behind him. The wands behind him are exactly that, past trials and challenges overcome. Battle hardened and perhaps weary, the figure is still on guard for yet another conflict comes. It speaks to resolve, doesn’t it?

It says protect yourself, what you have built and your reputation. Be on guard! This is a great time to do magical protection work too.

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

When I see this, I know another conflict is coming for that client. I always tell them to be on guard, stay alert. A look around at the other cards in a spread always gives me deep context plus where it falls in a spread.

Reversed Meaning

Reversed, the Nine of Wands warns of exhaustion and emotional barricades. Typical guide book meanings will speak to refusing help or reliving old wounds. Healing begins when vigilance softens.

While all that is true to varying degrees on some level, I consistently find that person looks to others for rescue, but the only one that can truly rescue them is them!

Not that some help wouldn’t be appreciated. A lot of it I find is brought on by fear of failure, even paranoia.

Sympathetic Decks

Nearly all the decks I have ever seen have very similar symbolisms and imagery. In the Rider-Waite-Smith era, this would have involved more grandiose projects and status. In this age, it can apply to anyone’s careers and projects.

Correspondences

Planet: Moon
Sign: Sagittarius
Element: Fire
Number: Attainment
Golden Dawn: Lord of Great Strength

Tarot Spell: Upright

Place the Nine of Wands on your altar or working surface. Light a red or orange candle to represent sustained will and controlled fire. Set a piece of hematite or black tourmaline beside the card for grounding and strength. Place a bay leaf or sprig of rosemary near the base of the wand.

Focus on steady breathing. Speak aloud that you honor what you have already endured, that you protect what still matters, and that you will complete this path without sacrificing yourself. Allow the candle to burn briefly, then extinguish it with intention.

Tarot Spell: Reversed

Lay the Nine of Wands reversed on your altar. Light a white candle to call in rest and renewal. Place amethyst or blue lace agate above the card to calm tension and soften defenses. Add a small pinch of lavender or chamomile near the lower edge of the card.

As the candle burns, acknowledge where constant vigilance has drained you. Speak your willingness to rest without guilt and to release defenses that no longer serve. Leave the setup overnight. In the morning, turn the card upright to mark restored balance.

Final Note

The Nine of Wands honors those who continue with awareness rather than force.

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We have many Divination Tools; tarot, oracle, pendulums, crystal balls etc. on our site and in our metaphysical shop, come visit!

Today’s Featured Deck

A world of mysticism: Thoth Pocket Swiss Tarot Deck by Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris. Although compact, this deck holds immense spiritual power and depth.

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Seven of Wands

Gregory — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 11:15:55 +0000

The Seven of Wands shows what it feels like to stand your ground under pressure with style and wit. It speaks to that tense moment when you know you earned your place and someone still tries to push you off it. For this series we walk through my method, P.E.N.S.I. for each pip card.

Then we move into reversals, correspondences, and spell work that uses the card on your altar. If you have not, please review the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, it will make learning tarot so much easier.

Seven of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

This card sits in the suit of Wands in the Minor Arcana. It shows stress, defense, and effort that stays active. It points to moments when you are tested on what you worked hard to build. We are not in a spread at the moment, and we’ll cover spreads in future posts,

Past, present or future, this is about overcoming obstacles, in a good way.

2nd Layer of Context: Element is Fire

Fire rules this card, so it burns hot and restless. Remember from the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, fire is always passion or career, often both. It stirs courage, anger, will, and push back. It also shows how passion can feel rough when many demands land at once.

3rd Layer of Context for the Seven of Wands: Numerology of Seven

Remember from P.E.N.S.I. – Seven is like the start of a new path, only you know better what you do and do not want. Seven brings tests, inner work, and soul pressure. It calls up grit, review, and honest self-check. It also asks what you truly stand for when things feel hard.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

In most decks, like the Rider-Waite which we are using for these lessons, a figure stands holding a wand as if in sparring. He is holding off others as if in competition, it is not war. The figure is on the high ground and has the advantage.

The raised wand shows a stand taken. Extra wands below show stress from rivals, gossip, or conflict that refuses to quit.

I look at the symbolism and think to myself this person has to overcome the issues presented by these other people. But also take the high ground, the high road. It speaks to overcoming obstacles with style and wit, using one’s talents in smart and effective ways.

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

When this card appears in a spread, the first thing that comes to mind is putting one’s skills to the test. It’s like the person has the mad skills, but now the test. And they are confident, just need a little assurance. Trust that you earned this ground. Your skill and history matter so do not shrink. You can stay firm, adjust your stance, and set limits while you hold your place.

Other things come across depending on the querant and what they wish to know. But if you pay attention and work through P.E.N.S.I. as you perform the reading, plenty will come across to you. I like to advise my clients to take the high road, but at the same time, show your skills.

It’s not an ugly situation like the five of wands, but it is tense and has potential for ugly. So, apply that style, wit and humor while you show off those skills. Compete with honor.

Reversed Meaning

In the reverse, this card speaks to anxiety, a lack of confidence and often indecision. Energy scatters and your stand can feel shaky. Doubt creeps in and drama drains strength. You may feel outnumbered, tired, or unsure. It can be wiser to step aside, regroup, or pick a smaller hill.

This is often a good time, I think, to back off and instead of competing, try to work with others. Show them you are trying to understand their position by proactively listening.

Sympathetic Decks

In the era of Rider-Waite, this would likely have been competition in bigger, grandiose projects affluent people would have been involved with. The impact of reputation would have been far reaching. In more modern times, these symbols and meanings can apply to anyone’s career or creative projects.

Correspondences

Planet: Mars
Sign: Leo
Element: Fire
Number: Challenge
Golden Dawn: Lord of Valor

Tarot Spell: Seven of Wands

Place the Seven of Wands upright on your altar beside a red candle. Hold a wand or branch in your strong hand. As the flame takes, speak what ground you refuse to lose. Picture firm feet and a steady stance on high ground. Tap the card three times with the wand and let the candle burn out safe.

Tarot Spell: Seven of Wands Reversed

Set the card face down near a blue candle. Sit with both feet flat and breathe until the shoulders drop. Speak where you feel worn out or outnumbered. Picture excess wands falling away until only one stays in your hand. Flip the card upright when calm returns and name one small next step.

Final Note

Pressure shows what matters most. Choose your battles with care but strive to take the high road. Even if others do not.

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We have many Divination Tools; tarot decks, oracle cards, pendulums, crystal balls etc. on our site and in our metaphysical shop, come visit! You can also book an in-store or online tarot reading with me or one of our trusted tarot readers.

Today’s Featured Deck

Soar with insight in the Tarot of the Owls Deck and Book by Elisabeth Alba and Pamela Chen. While rooted in the Rider-Waite-Smith tradition, this deck offers a fresh, feathered twist. Because each card features stunning owl imagery, it speaks directly to your inner wisdom.

In the Tarot of the Owls Deck and Book you will meet four owl families in the minor arcana: barn, snowy, burrowing, and great horned. Each type brings a unique energy and message. As a result, the suits come alive with personality, making readings feel more connected and meaningful.

Features barn, snowy, burrowing, and great horned owls in the minor arcana.
Tarot of the Owls Deck and Book includes a full guidebook by Pamela Chen.
Rich artwork by Elisabeth Alba brings each card’s wisdom to life.

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Ten of Wands

Gregory — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 18:25:10 +0000

The Ten of Wands meaning is easier to grasp using P.E.N.S.I. this speaks to Position, Element, Numerology, Symbolism, and Intuition all at once. This card shows effort pushed to its limit. It reflects a moment where responsibility has grown heavier than expected, even though the goal is close. The message is not about weakness. It is about strain created by carrying too much alone.

If you have not, read the first P.E.N.S.I lesson, it makes learning tarot so much easier. Through P.E.N.S.I., this card reveals pressure through fire energy, completion through the number ten, and symbolism that blocks clear vision. Intuitively, the Ten of Wands appears when endurance is being tested. Progress still happens, but the cost is growing. Something must shift before burnout takes over.

Ten of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

Upright, the Ten of Wands reflects overcommitment and strain. Reversed, it points to release, delegation, or the choice to stop carrying what is not yours. We are not covering tarot spreads yet, but we will. But this could be past, present or future. In a relationship query, this client may feel the couples’ burdens are lopsided.

2nd Layer of Context: Element of Fire

Recall from the first P.E.N.S.I. lesson, fire is always passions and/or career. Often the two are tied together. In this card, energy is present, but it is burning low from constant output without recovery.

3rd Layer of Context for Ten of Wands: Numerology of Ten

Recall from the first lesson, ten is an energy we’ve been dwelling in for a while. This could be a happy or not so happy thing. But it always means the person is headed back to a one. Completion under pressure. An ending reached through effort rather than ease. Change will happen, it is coming, but what will it look like? It is up to the person the card represents.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

The bundled wands block the figure’s view, showing how excess duty narrows perspective. Progress continues, but joy and clarity are obscured. This is basic guide-book stuff, but I see a lot more than that. The destination (the goal) is not far, look close at the card in the lower right. But, will they make it? Overwhelmed, exhausted and further to go. I advise clients all the time when I see this; you have too many irons in the fire. A reference to a blacksmith and forge. You will not be able to hammer it all out successfully.

Delegate, ask for help, keep just the irons you are best at and have the most control over. Let the rest go or let someone else who is qualified do it. I further advise folk to let go of “people projects”. That does not serve them, no one is ours to fix.

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

This card often asks for honesty. What started as purpose may have turned into obligation. Strength remains, but it needs support. When I put this in context with the query, (the question if they have asked one) and other cards, position etc. a lot more often comes.

I can often tell what the projects are, and even some of the people involved. But you arrive at intuition by working the other aspects of P.E.N.S.I. much easier.

Reversed Meaning

Relief begins when boundaries return. You may be ready to drop a role, share a task, or admit something is too much. In the meantime, this person is just spent. Utterly tired and burned out. I tell them to let others take over while they take time out. If others will not take over, find other people then.

Sympathetic Decks

Most of the the decks I have come across are quite similar in imagery. In the Rider-Waite-Smith era, this would have spoken to big projects, like building a hospital or a new railroad. In today’s society, it can be easily fit to anyone’s career. The Everyday Witch Tarot depicts a witch carrying ten brooms, adorable.

Correspondences

Planet: Saturn
Sign: Sagittarius
Element: Fire
Number: Completion
Golden Dawn: Lord of Oppression

Tarot Spell: Ten of Wands

Light a plain white candle and place smoky quartz beside it. Hold the Ten of Wands card and name each responsibility aloud. With each name, tap the card once. When finished, say which task will be shared, paused, or ended. Let the candle burn halfway, then extinguish it. Return to this spell only after action is taken.

Tarot Spell: Ten of Wands Reversed

Place the Ten of Wands reversed on a table with ash wood or incense. Sit quietly and breathe until tension eases. Say, “I release what is not mine to carry.” Pass the card through incense smoke three times. Put the card away to mark the shift.

Final Note

The Ten of Wands is not failure. It is proof of effort. Wisdom comes from knowing when to set the load down.

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We have many Divination Tools; tarot, oracle, pendulums, crystal balls etc. on our site and in our metaphysical shop, come visit!

Today’s featured deck

Step into a spooky world of insight with the Trick or Treat Tarot Deck and Book by Jonathan Hunt and Barbara Moore.

While playful and fun, this deck offers serious magic and deep meaning. Inspired by Halloween’s mystery and charm, it helps you explore your inner world with courage and curiosity.

In the Trick or Treat Tarot Deck , you will discover 78 Rider-Waite-based cards filled with goblins, ghouls, witches, and wild surprises. Because the artwork is bold and colorful, every reading feels alive and exciting.

Jonathan Hunt’s illustrations bring a whimsical edge, while still honoring the tarot’s sacred symbols.

Includes 78 Rider-Waite-based tarot cards with spooky, whimsical illustrations.
Trick or Treat Tarot Deck and Book features a full-color guidebook by Barbara Moore.
Encourages playful self-discovery, daily reflection, and fearless divination year-round.

The post Ten of Wands appeared first on Coexist - The Alternative Path.

Two of Wands

Gregory — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 16:37:57 +0000

The Two of Wands invites you to step beyond your comfort zone and embrace a wider horizon. It marks the moment when vision meets planning, and possibilities unfold. This card encourages foresight, confidence, and taking deliberate action toward your goals. It reminds you that growth comes from daring decisions and conscious direction.

This post follows the P.E.N.S.I. method, my own creation—Position, Element, Numerology, Symbolism, and Intuition—to explore the deeper meaning of the Two of Wands. Each layer reveals how this card blends vision, courage, and preparation into a complete message for both daily life and spiritual practice.

If you haven’t read it yet, start with my first P.E.N.S.I. lesson,

Two of Wands, 1st Layer of Context: Position

Position: In a reading, the Two of Wands appears when you stand at the threshold of expansion. It signals the need to choose a direction and commit. Whether you face a personal or professional crossroad, the card urges clear planning and thoughtful risk-taking. It’s the moment before action, where dreams take form through intention.

We’re not doing any spreads in these lessons, yet, but we will. But I wanted to say the two of wands often pops up when a person feels their world is too small, or restricted somehow.. They are looking around, feeling like the grass has to be greener somewhere.

I’ll give you a personal example. Though I’ve been witching my whole life, I did not always own a metaphysical shop. I’ve been in banking, behavioral health, video games and an animator back in the 90’s for SEGA. I’ve also been a Realtor and still hold a license, though I’m not active.

So, I wanted to be around more people like me while doing something I love for a living. The two of wands came up frequently in readings whether I read for myself or had another trusted friend read for me. I started manifesting and POOF, Coexist – The Alternative Path was born.

The two of wands came up again in later readings in the months before launching Posh Pagan (Meta), our sister store three doors up for pagan, goth and witchy wear.

That should give you some better context. Career changes are often preceded by the two of wands, sometimes the itch to start a business or spin a side-hustle into one.

2nd Layer of Context: Element is Fire

Element: The Two of Wands belongs to the Fire element, representing energy, ambition, and transformation. Fire fuels confidence and creation, but it also demands focus. This element reminds you that intention without motion fizzles out. Channel passion wisely and act with purpose to shape what’s next. Remember with fire, always think; passions and career.

Career is a bit different than employment; wands vs pentacles. Career is what we want to do, not what we have to do. And usually there’s more creativity involved. With pentacles, it’s more about social, family and money, always money. It doesn’t mean someone doesn’t like or isn’t good at their job.

3rd Layer of Context for Two of Wands: Numerology of Two

Numerology: The number two symbolizes balance, partnership, and dual paths. Here, it reflects decision-making and the harmony between desire and discipline. You’re learning to unite inner drive with external opportunity. This balance ensures that progress comes through alignment rather than impulse.

4th Layer of Context: Symbolism

Symbolism: In many decks, a figure stands between two wands, gazing toward distant lands. The globe or landscape in hand represents vast potential and worldly ambition. The wands create a gateway, suggesting both choice and opportunity. The red robe symbolizes vitality, while the horizon hints at infinite possibilities. Ok, sure. This is more like the generic take you’ll get on this card. Yes, but …

Just my own take, but when I gaze upon the symbolisms, I think “others are going to think you’re crazy, you got the whole world in your hand.” But it’s small, right? And with one wand secured to the inside of wall, it’s like saying, this is where your foundation is, stay, it’s safe. Notice the other wand is held aloft as this person, who happens to be well-dressed, gazes out into the open landscape.

It’s like searching for where to build, wanting to build, but needing to keep one foot in while the other steps out. And yes, look closely at the wand on the right, down low. Hard to spot perhaps, but that wand is bolted/secured to the wall.

Anyhow, that’s what I see in the image, but all of the above I consider to be true and applicable. For someone in this energy or circumstance, I recommend wearing yellow tiger eye. Unleashes your creativity but keeps you grounded so your creativities don’t run away with you.

5th Layer of Context: Intuition

Intuition: Intuitively, the Two of Wands whispers, “Dream bigger.” It asks you to claim your space with certainty and design your future rather than drift into it. Trust your ability to lead your own journey. Depending on who is sitting in front of me, this but also other things come across. Sometimes I know they have the itch to start a business, other times to take a different job, or even change careers.

Reversed Meaning

Reversed Meaning: Reversed, this card warns of hesitation, over-analysis, or fear of the unknown. It may show untapped potential or reluctance to act. Trust that clarity grows through movement, not waiting.

Sympathetic Decks

Sympathetic Decks: The Two of Wands aligns beautifully with visionary or traveler-themed decks, such as the Modern Witch Tarot, Light Seer’s Tarot, and Golden Art Nouveau Tarot. When I say “sympathetic decks” though, I mean that all decks are sympathetic to their time or era, and their authors and creators. My Witches Tarot is very similar in imagery.

Correspondences

Planet: Mars
Sign: Aries
Element: Fire
Number: Balance
Golden Dawn: Lord of Dominion

Tarot Spell: Two of Wands

Hold the Two of Wands card before a red candle. Visualize the scene on the card as your own doorway to opportunity. Speak your intention clearly: what you’re choosing, what you’re building, and what you’re leaving behind. Let the flame reflect in the card’s image as you declare your decision aloud. Place the card where you plan your goals for seven days to charge it with steady purpose.

Tarot Spell: Two of Wands (Reversed)

Place the Two of Wands card face down between two unlit candles. Write your fears or indecisions on paper, fold it toward you, and rest it beneath the card. Light one candle to represent courage and the other for movement. As the candles burn, turn the card upright, a little here, a little there until fully upright, symbolizing your readiness to step forward. Burn the paper safely when the wax cools.

To help your spells, check out enchantment magic (how to enchant) and my post on alpha brainwaves.

Final Note

The Two of Wands teaches you that potential is not enough—it must be met with courage. You are the architect of your destiny, ready to turn imagination into motion. Step forward, plan wisely, and let your fire guide the way.

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Today’s Featured Deck

Begin your magical journey with the Practical Witchcraft deck and book set. This inspiring kit helps you unlock your inner witch. Whether you’re new to spell work or ready to expand your practice, this box offers everything you need.

Inside, the Practical Witchcraft deck and book set you’ll find 52 beautifully designed spell cards and a 128-page guidebook. Because each card covers a specific spell, you can quickly find the right magic for your needs. The spells span love, abundance, protection, life enhancement, and banishing. Therefore, this kit supports growth in every area of your life.

Includes 52 spell cards and a 128-page guidebook.
Covers love, abundance, protection, and banishing.
Encourages personal spell creation and daily magical practice.

We have many Divination Tools; tarot, oracle, pendulums, crystal balls etc. on our site and in our metaphysical shop, come visit!

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