88-constellations - Tumblr blog

88-constellations · 1 day ago

Text

Death Witchcraft FAQ + Masterpost

I realize that others have written up posts on death witchcraft, but I decided to write one as resources on this craft are scarce and I know many are curious. Note that every witch practices the craft differently, and for different reasons; these are just my personal experiences based on myself and the death witches I’ve spoken to.

What is death witchcraft?

I personally define death witchcraft as using death to empower you rather than dishearten you. I reflect a lot upon the concept of death, come to terms with my own death, and work through spiritual “deaths” in my life, such as the death of friends or jobs of an aspect of my personality. Death witches work with and honor spirits of the dead (ghosts, ancestors) as well as the power of death itself (endings, resurrections). I embrace death as a new beginning, and a pivotal point in the cycle of life.

Does this answer sound familiar? Because I’ve said it before, here, here, here, here, here, here, here, and here. I get this question a lot, you see, which is why I’m making a post about it. (⌒_⌒)

Why do you do it?

As with many paths, every witch does it for different reasons. For some, it’s a fear, or similar fascination, with death and its inevitability. Some practice it to find peace with death, and the dead. Some combine it with chthonic worship. And some just think it’s cool shit. No matter the reason, death witchcraft is one of the more emotionally tolling and obscure crafts out there. So if you’re interested, be prepared to commit.

What do you do in the craft?

A lot of spirit work, mainly caring for the dead. Ways I do this include tending to graveyards, giving offerings to the dead, helping the dead pass on, and helping people through mourning. I do a lot of shadow work, where I face my fears about death and the “deaths” in my life, and come to terms with accepting it. I also honor ancestors, honor different cultures’ funeral rites, and necromancy.

Other witches combine the craft with vulture culture, or becoming a mortician or funerary holder. I personally do not.

What is necromancy?

Necromancy is divination through the dead. Basically–talking to the dead to receive insights into the present or future. Necromancy can be performed in many different ways, including but not limited to summonings, bone throwing, pendulum readings, and other rituals. No, there’s no reanimating of the dead; many necromancers are strictly against that, if it is at all possible.

Some necromancers are death witches; some are not. I know many death witches who incorporate divination into their path, but would not call it necromancy. The lines seem to be blurred here. But because I receive so many questions on it, I figured I’d include it in the FAQ.

Is death witchcraft religious?

Well, uh … yes and no. Considering how much work death witches do with the spirits of a dead, a general belief in the afterlife is common among death witches. However, I do know some death witches who engage in past life work as an aspect of their craft instead of working with ghosts. Death witchcraft has the capability of neatly fitting into most kinds of religious belief, if necessary.

Is death witchcraft a “dark” path?

No. In my opinion, at least, no. The only thing “dark” about death witchcraft is that it involves, well, death, an idea which many people are uncomfortable with. And it can be a hard and draining path. But, dark? Or unethical? Not at all.

Are there any rules to death witchcraft?

The only rule I can think of that I would ever even think to enforce is to respect both the dead and the living. The dead are not your slaves, they’re not there to give you power; they’re just as valuable as we are. Respect them, and they’ll respect you.

I’m interested! How can I get started?

Check out these posts ~

Tools for the death witch

Magical uses of graveyard dirt

Graveyards in Witchcraft by @witches-of-ouroboros

The Proper Collection of Graveyard Dirt by @raven-conspiracy

Offerings for the dead

Altar ideas

My protection techniques (there are many others, but these work for me)

If you’re interested in necromancy

Guide to worship for chthonic deities (if applicable)

List of chthonic deities (if applicable)

Emotional death spells

Death witches to follow

Crystals in death magic by @cosmic-witch

Spirit communication with animal bones

Seeing past lives (if applicable)

Substitutes for your own blood (if applicable)

Substitutes for graveyard dirt (if applicable)

More on what death witches do by @snake-scale

I have more questions!

Is it one of these? ~

How can I conquer my fear of death? ~ Part Two ~

Does long-time exposure death energy affect you?

How do you know you are making a difference?

Being a death witch vs. being a spirit worker

Death walker vs. spirit worker

Are certain necromantic rites necessary? (imo)

Do you need to be a necromancer to be a death witch?

I’m a secret witch! What should I do?

I’m freaked out of spirits. Any tips?

On the death of a familiar

Do I have to use real bones?

What does it mean to “pay the gatekeeper”?

Praying for roadkill

How can I contact a dead relative?

Do I have to use a ouija board?

When speaking to the dead, are language barriers an issue?

Using ashes of the dead

On ghosts of separated bodies

Letting go of a lost relationship

There’s a spirit in my house??

What’s with this ‘raising the dead’ stuff in necromancy?

What are death energy exercises?

Combining death and glamor magic

I’m a secular witch. Can I still practice?

On miscarriages

On suicidal tendencies

Uncommon tools in death witchcraft

Do ghosts only hang out by their bodies?

Can souls feel pain after death?

Can I worship the concept of death?

I have a stranger’s graveyard dirt. Now what?

What do I say to the dead?

For the beginning Wiccan and death witch/necromancer

Springtime for the death witch

Recommended Reading

Death Witchcraft: Volume 1 (mine)

A whole list of recommended reading

My ‘death witch’ tag

If not, feel free to shoot me an ask! As you can see I love answering questions (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

OP’s Note: You may notice that a lot of these answers are mine. That’s because this post reflects my views on the craft, explicitly. I will also be updating it as I receive more asks and make more posts in the future.

Updated 5/28/18

#* ∙ ✰ ◞ 88 constellations ✗ reblogs.#none of the links work but it’s still an interesting post #I’m going to consider each link as a question to ask myself lol

9K notes · View notes

88-constellations · 2 days ago

Text

Verb super out of touch with my practice recently.

I've been on the fence about getting more into death work, although I'm not even sure if I should call it that. I mainly just want to get in contact with my godfather, and chit-chat with him lmao

5 notes · View notes

88-constellations · 2 days ago

Text

Plants in Necromancy

Apples. Apples are known as “the fruit of the dead” in Ireland. As such, they are a traditional offering for the dead on Celtic holidays like Samhain. The wood from an apple tree can be carved into necromantic wands or poppets.

Basil. Basil has a long history in purification and cleansing rituals. The Egyptians prepared embalming salves with basil; the Gauls infused it into purification washes; and basil juice was said to “help witches fly” in the Middle Ages. In Hinduism, Basil is used in both weddings and funerals because it is said to link people in love. It was a symbol of sorrow of ancient Greece. Use basil to aid in divination, hedgecrossing, or spirit communication.

Bay. Bay leaves are often used in clairvoyance spells and divination. They aid communication with the dead; the ancients either chewed them or burned them as incense. I often burn bay to enhance divination and ward off evil. (Be careful–it burns fast!)

Beet. Beet can be used as a blood substitute and as a dye in necromantic inks.

Carnations. Carnations are a common funeral flower, especially in France (where purple carnations are traditional). They are common in healing spells but are also used to remember the dead. After the crucifixion of Christ, it is said that Mary’s tears grew carnations. In the Netherlands, people wore carnations to remember fallen veterans.

Chamomile. Chamomile is best-known for its ability to aid sleep and meditation, but its history branches far before that. The ancient Egyptians associated chamomile with the sun, specifically with the God Ra, who was said to heal malaria with it. They used it in mummification to repel flies. The Romans also dedicated chamomile to their Gods and bathed in it for its healing properties. Chamomile makes a great offering to assuage the dead.

Cinnamon. Ever since Moses anointed the Tabernacle with cinnamon oil, it has been associated with deity and spirit work. Cinnamon oil was common in the Egyptian mummification process. The Roman emperor Nero tossed cinnamon onto his wife’s funeral pyre. In magic, cinnamon can amplify magical workings such as divination.

Copal. There are many different types of copal that have unique properties. However, most of them make great offerings for the dead, especially those who remain disoriented from trauma.

Damiana. In my experience, damiana is one of the best herbs to use in incense and herbal smoking blends. Its smoke produces visions, increases your ability to astral project, and aids meditation.

Dittany of Crete. As another spirit work herb, Dittany of Crete is burned to manifest spirits. It is especially potent in summoning spirits of the dead. Since it grows near cliffs, many farmers fell to their deaths trying to harvest them, giving this plant a negative connotation. However, the ancient Greeks valued it as a symbol of love and healing.

Dragon’s Blood. It’s nearly impossible to research ceremonial magic without running into this resin from the palm tree. Dragon’s blood is burned to aid spirit work and protect the magician. You can also infuse it into necromantic inks.

Eucalyptus. According to Australian Aboriginals, eucalyptus trees divided the Earth between the Underworld and Heaven. It is commonly used in healing poppets and health spells. DO NOT burn green eucalyptus; its oils produce too much smoke.

Fennel. Fennel is a protective and purifying herb. In the Middle Ages, people placed fennel inside their keyholes to prevent ghosts from entering their homes.

Frankincense. Due to its powerful vibrations, frankincense often aids spirit work. It is a common consecration herb in Judaism and Christianity. In Hoodoo and rootwork, frankincense boosts the powers of other herbs.

Heather. Heather is said to conjure ghosts and open the portals between worlds. In the Scottish highlands, heather marked the resting places of faeries. It was also said to grow where no blood had been shed. As such, it can help to heal deceased warriors.

Holly. Holly is often planted in graveyards to protect both the dead and the mourners. It also promotes good fortune.

Juniper. Juniper has ancient healing associations. The Egyptians used it both medicinally and to embalm the dead. In Scotland, it was said to guard against ghosts and illness. The Key of Solomon often lists it in purification rites. I often use juniper berries as offerings. (Be careful while burning or grinding it in a mortar and pestle–it is incredibly oily!)

Lavender. Beyond its sleep-inducing effects, lavender is also carried to see ghosts. Dried lavender was found in Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb. During the Middle Ages, Christians made crosses out of lavender to protect themselves from evil. It was also used in healing magic, as people carried it to cure headaches in the Mediterranean. You can use it to heal the dead, aid divination and psychic dreams, and protect the home.

Lemon Balm. Known as one of the “witch’s plants,” it is said that Hekate gave lemon balm to Her daughters. Pliny the Elder hyped up lemon balm’s properties as a healing herb, claiming that it could stop the bleeding from a stab wound and prevent bees from swarming. In the Abuzzi region of Italy, women would pick lemon balm between their fingers so Jesus would assist them into Heaven. For death work, lemon balm is a healing herb that helps souls to pass on.

Lily. Lilies do not only symbolize purity and love; they are also planted in gardens to ward off ghosts and evil spirits. They are a common funeral flower, especially for women and children. It is said that Mary’s tomb was adorned with lilies. In the Anglican church, Jesus is sometimes depicted as being crucified on a lily cross. There are many types of lilies with different meanings. For instance, the Calla lily is associated with everlasting honesty and love, so it is used in both weddings and funerals.

Marigold. Marigolds are the most popular flower used in Dia de los Muertos, and they are also common in funerals. Along with being a protective herb, they also improve your relationships. It is said that bathing in marigolds will help you earn respect and admiration. Use it in healing and communication spells for the dead.

Mint. Mint used to be a popular funerary herb in Greece, as it masked the scent of corpses. It is not so popular at funerals anymore. The name stems from the myth of Pluto and Menthe, so many Pagans use mint to connect to chthonic deities. It is also a healing herb and can protect you on journeys.

Mugwort. Another one of my favorite spirit work herbs–mugwort is used in divination teas, smoking blends for spirit work, and washes for magical tools. Native Americans rubbed mugwort on themselves to keep ghosts away. According to a 9th-century grimoire (Bald’s Leechbook), it casts out demonic possession. Use it to amplify spirit work and induce a trance state.

Mulberry. Mulberries (which are technically trees, not bushes) are planted in cemeteries to heal grief and grant eternal life. They also protect against evil.

Mullein. Because of its nickname “Graveyard Dust,” mullein is often mistaken for a graveyard dirt substitute. To be clear: it is not a substitute. But mullein torches used to be burned during funerals, and its smoke can help people see spirits of the dead and the afterlife.

Myrrh. Myrrh is a common incense and oil in necromancy. The Egyptians associated myrrh with Isis’s death aspects, so they used it in magical inks and embalming. The ash from myrrh can be used to draw magic circles. Burn it to enhance meditation and increase psychic powers.

Olive. Olive fruits and leaves were usually used for protection, healing spells, and luck. But olive oil is common in spirit work; the Romans used it for necromantic scrying. The Greek Magical Papyri recommends pouring it into spring water to see spirits of the dead.

Orchid. In Greek mythology, Orchis, the son of a satyr and a nymph, became an orchid upon dying. The Greeks also used orchids in fertility spells, so it became a symbol of death and rebirth. As such, it’s a common funeral flower. It also induces trance states and develops psychic powers.

Oregano. The ancient Greeks believed that growing oregano on graves would ensure that the deceased was happy. This herb enhances love and is used in healing salves. Place it under your pillow to have prophetic dreams, or give it as an offering.

Parsley. Parsley has long had associations with death. According to Greek mythos, parsley sprang from the blood of Archemorus, whose name means “forerunner of death.” It frequently appeared in ancient funerals. During Greek funerary games, victors wore crowns of parsley to commemorate the dead. It also has protective qualities.

Patchouli. Because of its earthiness, patchouli is often linked with graveyard dirt. I use it as an oil to anoint candles.

Rose. Possibly the most commonly recognized funeral flower, roses have been associated with death for centuries. In 5th century Egyptian tombs, paintings of roses covered the walls. Its relationship to love connects the living and the deceased for eternity. It can also heal the dead.

Rosemary. Rosemary is the herb of remembrance. Studies have linked rosemary to a sharper memory, but the ancients learned this long before. It appeared in Egyptian, Roman, and Medieval funeral rites to commemorate the dead. The Greeks tossed sprigs of rosemary into graves to ensure that the deceased would not be forgotten. It is also burned to magnify divination and infused into ritual washes.

Sage. In Medieval folklore, eating sage in May was said to promote longevity. It also symbolizes immortality. The Egyptians often used sage ceremonially. Sage pollen was found in the tomb of Pharaoh Ramses II. In France, sage is said to heal grief, so it is often planted in graveyards.

St. John’s Wort. St. John’s Wort sometimes appears in spirit work and divination rituals. In the Middle Ages, people carried it in the mouth to find witches. But it is also protective. Dry it during Midsummer and hang it over a door to guard against ghosts, necromancers, and evil spirits. Do not ingest if you are on an anti-depression or mood disorder medication.

Sandalwood. This fragrant plant was used in Egyptians embalming rituals. Nowadays, it is often burned as incense to support spirit work, consecrate tools, and protect a space. In my opinion, it’s more effective if you burn it with frankincense. Thyme. In ancient Greek funerals, thyme represented the bravery of a warrior. You can burn it to aid those suffering in death. It was also used in ancient Egyptian embalming and to induce prophetic dreams during the Victorian era. Combine it with marjoram in a bath to wash away sorrows of the past. You can also use it to communicate with the fae and the dead.

Tulips. Since blooming tulips signal the coming of spring, they are associated with death and rebirth. They often appear in funerals to signify perfect love. In Middle Eastern traditions, people wore tulips for protection.

Valerian. Like mullein, valerian root is called “graveyard dirt” when powdered. But it is not a substitute for real graveyard dirt. Instead, it is used to induce a trance state and sleep. The Greeks hung a sprig under a window to protect the home from evil.

Vervain. Vervain is a common herb in spirit work. In Christian mythos, it is said that Christ’s crucifixion wounds were staunched with vervain. The Romans called it a “sacrificial herb,” and it was said to be especially powerful. As a protective herb, vervain can be carried, burned, or infused into potions to drive off evil spirits. Use it in spirit work spells to enhance their powers.

Wormwood. Wormwood is often burned as an incense or smoking blend to develop psychic powers. In Slavic rituals and dances, people carried it for protection. The Greeks hung it to ward off malicious spirits. Its smoke is said to summon spirits. According to old grimoires, burning it on a grave will raise the dead. You don’t have to perform magic in a cemetery, though–wormwood will aid necromancy anywhere.

#* ∙ ✰ ◞ 88 constellations ✗ reblogs.

39 notes · View notes

88-constellations · 23 days ago

Text

I have a Google Drive with some beginner-friendly stuff I wrote for my Discord server a while ago. It covers most of the basics and can help you get started. The best thing I can recommend is asking someone who practices astrology about specific things that you want to know.

Can someone explain astrology to me? I don't know much about it still and don't know how the charts work.

I want to start putting stuff in my grimoire but I don't want wrong information.

#* ∙ ✰ ◞ 88 constellations ✗ astrology.

9 notes · View notes

88-constellations · 1 month ago

Text

Having your stellium in the same house and sign is pretty common as far as stelliums go. It could mean a couple of things:

the sign of your stellium can mark a pattern of behaviors in yourself (ex., stellium in Aquarius may suggest that you take a more unconventional approach to life),

while the house can show an especially important aspect of your life (ex., stellium in the 5th House shows that creation, art, and hobbies might be important to you).

Now, what that means for you personally depends on the house and the sign, but overall, having a stellium can be really beautiful. It means that there are (usually) multiple celestials in conjunction, working together towards a common goal. It can definitely have some downsides, though, as it is an intense concentration of power in one area, buuuut, it definitely adds some flair to your natal horoscope.

Stelliums Are Divine Gifts

When three or more planets gather in the same sign or house, it is no coincidence— it is a mark left by the gods.

Such a concentration is not mere chance, but a sacred seed, buried deep within the soul. Dormant, yes. But not dead.

To those who bear a stellium, the heavens have entrusted immense power— but power that must be remembered, honoured, and awakened.

Without devotion, without knowledge, this gift may lie scattered and untamed— a fire that burns the self as easily as it illuminates the world.

Here's all about them.

44 notes · View notes

88-constellations · 2 months ago

Text

My entire blog is a love letter written in silence, just for you. I wonder if you ever read it.

816 notes · View notes

88-constellations · 2 months ago

Text

28K notes · View notes

88-constellations · 2 months ago

Text

tarot tips for beginners

so you just decided that you want to read tarot, and perhaps invest in your very first deck. here are some tips that i found useful when I was just starting out!

(updated version)

some uses for tarot cards:

divination

spirit communication

deity communication

spellwork

choosing a deck:

there are so many decks to choose from - a lot of folks choose the deck that they energetically vibe with the most, but like, that doesn't happen for everyone! when i initially made this post 7 years ago, i spoke about initially choosing a tarot deck because it had minimalistic artwork and clearly labeled text, which was extremely helpful for me. some decks even have keywords or meanings listed on them, which is pretty cool.

that being said, i do think it's worth it to get your first deck from a brick and mortar store - that way you can see all the different varieties, art styles, etc.

another thing to consider is size: there’s a “standard” size for tarot cards - some authors stick to playing card size, and some make theirs quite large. i have small hands, so the larger sized cards are somewhat uncomfortable for me to use and shuffle. i would keep that in mind for sure.

i would also suggest that if your first deck doesn’t come with its own guidebook to invest in one, just to have for reference.

tips:

cleanse your deck before you use it for the first time - this helps get rid of any lingering energy that it may have picked up over time. you can do maintenance cleansing whenever you want, maybe between readings?

charge your deck! perhaps try a selenite plate or slab - selenite has both cleansing and charging properties, so you can set your deck on top and let it do its thing. alternately, put the deck in the middle of a crystal grid; pass it through incense smoke; make a dry herb bath; etc. however you normally cleanse and charge things.

draw a card a day for personal readings, and record your findings in a journal - this can help you learn the meanings of the cards, bond with your new deck, and provide an opportunity for introspection and reflection.

not into journaling or writing? create an excel or word document to record your personal experiences and findings. this can also be useful for jotting down card meanings (ctrl + f is a lot easier than digging through a book imo).

practice readings with people you are comfortable with. this can help you decipher card meanings and practice reading intuitively.

come up with personal associations for the cards that relate to your every day life. for example, the death card popping up in a reading can be startling at first, but more often than not, it relates to rebirth or transformation. the same applies for cards that signify fertility or birth - this may simply allude to new beginnings. what do you think the cards are trying to tell you?

you might not wanna overwhelm yourself with lengthy spreads like the celtic cross - maybe stick with short spreads that only involve a few cards and work your way up to bigger ones.

readings do not decide your fate. they are meant to be used as a tool for guidance, not to be taken for fact.

you can use tarot cards to represent intentions during spellwork or meditation.

common myths about tarot:

you must receive your tarot deck as a gift

you must keep your tarot deck in a [black] silk bag

you must be a witch or psychic to read tarot

you shouldn’t read tarot while you’re pregnant

don’t let others touch or look at your tarot cards

tarot cards are inherently evil

tarot cards are “the devil’s work”

you can’t read tarot for yourself

the cards are to be taken literally (where death means death, etc.)