Ordinarily, a new moon brings an invigorating feeling; However, this particular moon is fraught with tension, as it creates the astrological aspect known as a Fixed T-Square. Those born with the Sun or Moon in the fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius will feel the brunt of this aspect, a bit more intensely.

Also, pay attention to which house you may have any of these fixed signs, as you’ll no doubt feel the heat. It’s not “bad”, just “challenging”, as I always say.

To intensify matters, Jupiter and Uranus (in Pisces) are in opposition of Saturn, currently retrograde in Virgo. These 3 planets are creating a Mutable T-Square, with Venus in Gemini. No wonder the world and everyone in it feels like we’re on a rollercoaster.

Still, it’s a New Moon, so light a green or white candle, and meditate on what you’d like to achieve in this new lunar cycle. It’s a great time to plant things as well, as the Moon in Taurus is considered one of the most fruitful times to begin projects.

If you’d like to learn more about how the New Moon in Taurus will affect you, contact me for more info.

Today, I’m celebrating the birth of my favorite poet, Isidore Lucien Ducasse, more famously known as, Le Comte de Lautréamont. During his life, he completed writing only one complete book, but oh what a book it was!

Entitled “Les Chants de Maldoror”, (The Song of Maldoror) is one of the most mind-boggling, verbal hallucination ever written. If you have never read “Maldoror” (as it is often referred to), I suggest buying a copy today, in his honor. (Just scroll down this page, and you’ll see a link to buy the book from “My Book Club” on the right-side column).

For lovers of great surrealist poetry, take a minute to read a sample of this great artist’s work.

You can also read my special page, dedicated to Le Comte de Lautréamont, complete with an assortment of valuable links.

Let me know your thoughts upon reading this truly important, and startlingly original poet’s work. I’m sure that once you read his story, (and his poetry), you will reserve a special place in your library for the late, great Isidore.

Visit Le Comte de Lautréamont on Myspace.

I’ve been working on interpreting Kurt’s Astrology Chart, delving into the mystery as to what was really behind his suicide — if in fact, it was, one. It’s definitely a bizarre chart, full of hope, promise and even offers insight into his seemingly, unavoidable crash-and-burn.

Kurt never was one to burn out OR fade away. Instead, he chose to go out like the wild human Supernova he truly was. Still, his fiery ghostlight echoes, reaching the furthermost edges of our Messyverse — reminding the most distant of aliens, that once upon a time, there lived a beautiful yellow giant star named Kurt. May his light always shine for eyes to see, even when those eyes are blind with tears.

LVX and PAX,
Voxx

Steelers Cards: Queen of Swords; 6 of Swords, and 10 of Swords.
Cardinals Cards: Ace of Wands; The Star, 9 of Wands.

Seems as if the Cardinals are letting the situation go to their heads. Some foolish move may cost them the game.

Still, the Cardinals have made it to the big day. Guess we’ll see what happens.

Btw, although the Cardinals cards are incredibly strong, it just feels like the Psychic vibe at the end, switches in favor of the Steelers.

Normally, I’m not into sports, per se — but, it seemed like a fun experiment. Let me know your thoughts.

In the meantime, let me bask in the glow of being the only Psychic who accurately predicted Obama’s mandate win, on record — before he actually won! I’m very excited for the coming years, with Barack Obama at the helm. May he accomplish his true will by guiding all Americans to a brighter future.

Read the Voxx Presidency Prophecy (with links)

Congratulations on the birth of your dream, Dr. King! What else can I say, but dreams do come true.

If you’d like to help continue to keep King’s dream alive, please start by joining USA Service Organization and find out how you can honor The Dream by performing Community Service in your area.

I’m so damn inspired I joined myself! There’s no end to the good we can do for ourselves and our country in this time of upheaval. Here’s to you, Dr. King, and the dream of hope that is finally being realized.

For more about this incredible man of Peace, please visit Martin Luther King, Jr. – A Biography

LVX,

Voxx

As a Thelemite, I always observe the Holy Days of Thelema, and earlier today remembered to meditate on the special energy of this day; however, at 11:34 pm (PST) the remembrance hit me full force. I felt his spirit must have left close to this time all those years ago.

Crowley, wherever you are . . . say hi to David for me.

The Moon (also known as Luna), is considered exalted in the earthy sign of Taurus — a fact that lends more awareness of the preciousness of Life, despite its many ups and downs.Although Taurus is an earth sign, it is ruled by the planet Venus, Goddess of Beauty, Fertility and the Arts. It’s no wonder why many of us may feel incredibly inspired at this time, especially poets, musicians and artists.

A great way to celebrate the Full Moon in Taurus is to create something beautiful, create a sumptuous feast for yourself and your loved ones, paint a picture, enjoy music — whatever you choose to do, immerse yourself totally.The Venusian energy of this lunation offers a chance to heal and come to terms with harsher realities of life, something that many Southern Californians may need right now.

Full Moon Rituals: Read more about Moon Magick, and learn more about this particular lunation.Remember to join the Voxx Magickal Forum, and read more about the Esoteric Art of Astrology. I also offer classes on Basic Astrology as well, so feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

Have a mystical, magickal day!

The union of Aleister and Rose proved passionate and fruitful, both personally and magickally for a short time before tragedy struck the couple in the guise of the loss of their children. They eventually divorced due to Rose’s struggle with dipsomania and other problems.

Despite the eventual ruin of Aleister and Rose’s relationship, Thelemites honor this date as one of great importance. It was Rose (in her role as Ouarda the Seer), who was the catalyst to a series of events which lead to the writing of The Book of the Law, the primary source of Thelemic philosophy.

After studying the Astrology Charts of both Crowley, Rose and their wedding, I can see how and why these two extraordinary people came together, and what drew them apart as well. (I’ll be posting these charts later in the Astrology Section of my Magickal Forum, so feel free to check them out.)

Until then, Happy 104th Anniversary Aleister and Rose!

Links of Interest:

Aleister Crowley
The Book of the Law
Magickal Women
Rose Crowley

It’s been a crazy week over here at Tiphereth House, and I still haven’t gotten a chance to post last week’s podcast … so I’m sorry for the delay, it’ll be posted up tomorrow. Thanks for your patience.

Still, today is my birthday, so I’m taking the day off. I’ll be back next week with a brand-new show!  Stay tuned.

The exact moment of the Summer Solstice will occur at 11:06 am (PDT), and 2:06 pm (EDT). The Solstice will occur with Virgo Rising at 7 Degrees, with the Moon in the 1st House, making wonderful astrological aspects for me personally, for which I’m always thankful to the stars. I’ll post the chart up in the Astrology Section of my Magickal Forum for you all to see.

The Pagan History of the Summer Solstice: This day is also celebrated by Pagans and Witches as “Litha”, which is one of the 4 Greater Sabbaths of good witches everywhere. As some of you may know, the Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year. After today, the sun will set sooner each day, until Winter Solstice, at which time (Yule), the Sun will be “reborn” again. For more information about the Summer Solstice, please see the links at the end of this post, or contact me personally.

A Magickal Morning: After I awoke, I had some tea with my father, and gathered some items to do a little of what I call, kitchin’ witchin’.

Making Solar Water: I poured a gallon of purified water into a jug, put a stopper on it, and put it outside to gather the rising rays of Sol. According to ancient Wiccan practices, Solar Water made on this particular day possesses incredible magickal force and power which can be used for healing for the rest of the Solar Year.

After that, I went upstairs to the Sun Deck, and ate some Bran, as I took in the sight of Hollywood beneath my feet (literally!) However, the damp morning air made it difficult to stay there for long, so I went back downstairs to my house, saying hello to a honeybee I met along the way.

Feeling inspired, (thanks to the Solar Energy), I wound up taking quite a few pictures of my new house, replete with Faeries, Pixies, Gnomes and flowers. I’ll post them up soon.

Once back inside, I also gathered a collection of all my Solar crystals — various gold, red and clear crystals, such as Pyrite, Citrine, Quartz, Jasper, Tiger’s Eye, and even some Bloodstone. I placed these stones on a large windowsill (facing South, the direction of Fire), and lit some of my special Venus in Cancer incense, next to the crystals basking in the sunlight.

I wound up writing lengthy entries in my Magickal Diary, and wrote two intense poems as well (which I’ll share in the Magickal Forum).

Me and my dad did a bit of Psychic Trance work at the kitchen table, under the powerful influences of the solar aspects. We did some detective work, which I’ll share with you all on a different post. Suffice it to say, that this Solstice is already generating a great deal of positive energy in my life, and I hope that it will have the same effect on all my magickal friends out there.

The Third Pentacle of the Sun: I’m posting this particular Solar talisman to generate positive energy for all my readers. Here’s a bit about this particular Seal of the Sun. The Greater Key of Solomon states that, “The Third Pentacle of the Sun serveth in addition … to acquire Kingdom and Empire, to inflict loss, and to acquire renown and glory, especially through the Name of God, Tetragrammaton, which therein is twelve times contained.”

In an accompanying Editor’s Note, the Name IHVH (Yod-Heh-Vau-Heh), is repeated twelve times; and a versicle somewhat similar to Daniel IV. V:34: ‘My Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom, and my dominion endureth from age unto age.’

Feel free to print it out, anoint it with some Frankincense (or even Olive Oil), and keep it in your wallet or purse for good fortune. And of course, let me know how it affects you by sharing your story in the Magickal Forum. As always, I hope you all have a mystical, magickal day!

More Links Regarding Litha:

Ways to Celebrate the Summer Solstice: The Voxx Magickal Forum.

Circle of Light: Summer Solstice Ritual.

Netglimse.com: Summer Solstice Celebrations

Cassandra Eason Official Site: Summer Solstice Rituals

Thelemic Summer Solstice Ritual.

The greater number of mandalas use the color red to symbolize the element of fire, which is represents the Western region of the Universe, and also uses the Lotus (or nectar vase) as it’s symbol. The lotos itself symbolizes pure intentions in all activities. The nectar vase, (filled with subtle life-energy/nectar) symbolizes the immense power of the element of Fire.

According to popular belief, the life-extending energy and the possibility to gain rebirth on a lotus flower in one of his beautiful western paradises, Amithaba is considered the most popular Buddha in all of Asia.

There are countless forms of worship dedicated to Amithaba/Amitayus. In Japan, Amithaba is associated with the Sun, and so is honored with special ceremonies at sunrise and sundown.

Aspects of his many peaceful and wrathful aspects (some of which are extremely popular), are Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara) whose mantra is the most well-known as Om Mani Padme Hum. The Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama are both considered personifications (emanations) of Amithaba. In particular, the Dalai Lama is considered a form-emanation of Chenrezig. The Panchen Lama is considered to be a form-emanation of Amithaba/Amitayus.

According to Western metaphysical traditions, the Fire element is associated with the Zodiacal signs of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.

Take time to do a small meditation today upon the idea of Buddha, and his teachings.

The Sabbath of Beltane (also known as May Eve), is also known in Germany as Walpurgisnacht, (which translates as the “Night of Walpurgis”). In the lore of Witchcraft (before it was renamed “Wicca”), and was often depicted as the night when all the witches and their familiars rode their brooms through the sky.

Interestingly, Beltane happens today on the near-full Moon in Scorpio, which adds just the right amount of spiritual lunar energy to the holiday. Interesting how the Pagans chose the Astrological placement for this holiday, as the Moon in Scorpio relates to Sex, Death and Rebirth. Also, at the time of this holiday, the Sun is in sensual Taurus, which is ruled by Venus the planet ruling love and beauty.

Below are some helpful and interesting links for you to read about the history and practice of Beltane.

I will be celebrating tonight, and will meet all my magickal friends no doubt — out there on the Astral Plane.

Remember that Beltane is a magickal time wherein the veils between the worlds are lifted. Go outside tonight and see if you can see the Green Man, or the lovely Queen of the Fairies, Mab. Enjoy yourselves! Id’ love to hear any of your stories or magickal experiences you have tonight. Blessed Be!

Beltane Fire Society: Unbelievable pictures show how modern Wiccans and Pagans continue to celebrate this ancient holiday — truly amazing!

Myths Associated With Beltane: A great site containing lots of additional links regarding Wicca and Beltane.

A Witch’s View of Beltane: More on the traditions of Beltane written by a Wiccan practitioner.

Celtic Traditions of Beltane: An historical account of the Celtic origins of Beltane written by a male Wiccan.

Gaia

From the depths of Chaos, born
Unexplained, your origin
Bringer of first Earthly morn
Offspring of what has never been

With a consort, Love — his name
A child to fill Eternity
Brought forth Uranus to tame
A cosmos emanating forth from Thee

Creatrix of the Universe
By celestial intercourse
Thus were Earth and Heaven made
From strange start, Foundation laid

Birthing Pontus, her own mate
Cleaving mountains, forests wild
in Lovers’ bliss, Uranian fate
gave life to scores of godly child

Uranus, stung by what he’d wrought
Decided to destroy the life
Of what Gaia’s love begot
He sought to wield Atropos’ knife

Gaia begged the Titans give
Their help that all her children live
Thus, she gave the sickle to
Young Cronos, his own father slew

When Cronos gained his father’s age
Just like his father, he too grew
To despise the young gods, rage
The curse of Uranus came true

Like his father, soon exiled
His sibling gods to Tartarus
In jealous rage, he slew his child
As prophesied by Uranus

Time and again, the father tries
To destroy Gaia’s gift
Casts down the child, who fearfully cries
The one divine love tries to lift

Oh, jealous gods and men beware
Of Gaia, have a care
To respect our earthly home
the only one we’ve ever known

And on this special day give praise
To Her upon whose face you gaze
For ’tis truth, these words I say
One day within her arms we’ll lay

(Voxx Voltair © 2007)

Please take care of our Mother, Gaia! Let’s do what it takes to honor our home, our planet. There is no place like Earth anywhere else in the Universe.

Yes, there may be planets with water, with life, with an atmosphere — but it will never be like Earth. This is the place we were all born … where we’ve experienced, joy, laughter, childhood. Where we’ve gained experience as to what it means to be human.

So, even though there may be a myriad of other planetary places to exist, we will never experience being human, anywhere but here. Take a minute to say a prayer of thanks for all that you’ve been privileged to experience on our fair, majestic planet. Let’s do what we can to ensure that our beautiful planet will heal from all the injustices we’ve perpetrated against Her.

Whatever religion you are … even if you don’t believe in any particular faith, you certainly must admit that this is the best place to be. I’m sure even Richard Dawkins would agree with me on at least this point. Do what you can to make this world a more beautiful place. Io Gaia!

Today, Thelemites are celebrating the Feast of The Third Day of the Writing of The Book of The Law, which was channeled by The Master Therion (aka Aleister Crowley), by his Holy Guardian Angel, Aiwass — the Messenger of the current Aeon of Horus, The Crowned and Conquering Child.

History of the Book of The Law: See the previous entry for the history of this prophetic book.

The Book of the Law, Feast of the 3rd Day of Writing: The Book of the Law was written in three consecutive days, starting on April 8th, 9th and 10th, in 1904, e.v., and was psychically dictated to Crowley between the hours of Noon to 1:00 pm, during that 3-day period. Today, on April 10th, is celebrated as the Third Day that Crowley channeled the first Thelemic Holy Book. On the First Day, Crowley channeled the words of the Egyptian Sky Goddess, Nuit. On the Second Day, Crowley channeled the words of the Egyptian God, Hadit. Today, is the anniversary of the day that he channeled the Third, and final chapter, whose words were inspired by Ra-Hoor-Khuit, the God of War.

Suggested Thelemic Rituals: Some suggestions for attuning yourself to the 93rd Current would be to perform the listed Thelemic Rituals during this extra magickal time of the Thelemic year:

• Reading and/or Writing of Chapter 1,2, or 3 (depending on the day);
• Liber Resh (Four times per day, for all three days);
• The Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (before “Resh”);
• Reciting “Will” at each meal;
• Greater Invocation of the Pentagram (once per day)
• Liber Reguli (at least once per day, for all three days);
• Mass of the Phoenix (once per day, or at least once on Day 3);
• Practice of Liber E and Liber O.
• Sex Magick (all three days, and then some!)

How I Celebrated Today: Personally, I spent the hour between Noon and 1PM typing out the entirety of Chapter III. I do this every year, (sometimes writing the chapters out in long-hand), and it really gives me a magickal charge. It seems going through the action of writing this book for myself, really lets me feel and see for myself what Aiwass is really trying to communicate through the writing of this Book.

Read the The Book of the Law in its entirety on my Magickal School Site by clicking the link. It’s also a great idea to just simply buy a copy by using the Amazon links above, at the beginning of this entry.

More Celebrations: Tonight at midnight will conclude my celebration of the three Feast Days of the Writing of the Book of the Law. Please visit my Magickal Forum, where I will be posting special Astrology Charts and Articles about Thelema, and the work of The Master Therion.

Love is the Law; Love Under Will!

Do What Thou Wilt Shall Be the Whole of the Law!

Today, Thelemites are celebrating the Feast of The Second Day of the Writing of The Book of The Law, which was channeled by The Master Therion (aka Aleister Crowley), by his Holy Guardian Angel, Aiwass — the Messenger of the current Aeon of Horus, The Crowned and Conquering Child.

History of the Book of The Law: See the previous entry for the history of this prophetic book.

The Book of the Law, Feast of the 2nd Day of Writing: The Book of the Law was written in three consecutive days, starting on April 8th, 9th and 10th, in 1904, e.v., and was psychically dictated to Crowley between the hours of Noon to 1:00 pm, during that 3-day period. Today, on April 9th, is celebrated as the Second Day that Crowley channeled the first Thelemic Holy Book. On the First Day, Crowley channeled the words of the Egyptian Sky Goddess, Nuit. Today, is the anniversary of the day that he channeled the Second Chapter, whose words were inspired by Hadit, the Sky God, the consort of the Goddess Nuit.

Suggested Thelemic Rituals: Some suggestions for attuning yourself to the 93rd Current would be to perform the listed Thelemic Rituals during this extra magickal time of the Thelemic year:

• Reading and/or Writing of Chapter 1,2, or 3 (depending on the day);
• Liber Resh (Four times per day, for all three days);
• The Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (before “Resh”);
• Reciting “Will” at each meal;
• Greater Invocation of the Pentagram (once per day)
• Liber Reguli (at least once per day, for all three days);
• Mass of the Phoenix (once per day, or at least once on Day 3);
• Practice of Liber E and Liber O.
• Sex Magick (all three days, and then some!)

How I Celebrated Today: Personally, I spent the hour between Noon and 1PM typing out the entirety of Chapter II. I do this every year, (sometimes writing the chapters out in long-hand), and it really gives me a magickal charge. It seems going through the action of writing this book for myself, really lets me feel and see for myself what Aiwass is really trying to communicate through the writing of this Book.

Read the The Book of the Law in its entirety on my Magickal School Site by clicking the link. It’s also a great idea to just simply buy a copy by using the Amazon links above, at the beginning of this entry.

More Celebrations: I will be adding another special post tomorrow, as I continue to celebrate this most magickal time of the Thelemic New Year. Please visit my Magickal Forum, where I will be posting special Astrology Charts and Articles about Thelema, and the work of The Master Therion.

Love is the Law; Love Under Will!

Do What Thou Wilt Shall Be the Whole of the Law!

Today, Thelemites around the world are celebrating The First Day of the Writing of The Book of The Law, which was channeled by The Master Therion (aka Aleister Crowley), by his Holy Guardian Angel, Aiwass — the Messenger of the current Aeon of Horus, The Crowned and Conquering Child.

History of the Book of The Law: Interestingly, this book was prophesied to be written in the future by no less than the biblical figure of Moses, himself. The Book of the Law was written in three consecutive days, starting on April 8th, 9th and 10th, in 1904, e.v., and was psychically dictated to Crowley between the hours of Noon to 1:00 pm, during that 3-day period. Crowley and his new bride, Rose Edith Kelley, happened to be on their honeymoon in Cairo, Egypt in the Spring of that year.

In fact, it was Rose (whom Crowley dubbed, Ouarda the Seer), who acted as a Trance Medium for the budding Magician, Crowley — giving him a mystical message from an ancient deity, expressing that he was expected to be the vessel for a new magickal current that would transform the world.

After writing the book, Crowley stored it in his attic for a few years and forgot about it, accidentally rediscovering it some years later. He would later base his philsophy directly on the book, which was the foundation of the Philosophy of Thelema, the Greek word for Will.

No matter what your religion or belief system, I would strongly recommend my readers take a moment to read this most fascinating book, upon which the current spiritual New Age of Aquarius is based.

Many of the Book’s verses have accurately predicted the discovery of everything from the Theory of Relativity, to the attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001! One thing is certain, you will never forget the day you first read the The Book of the Law. (A free copy is available via the previous link). For those of you who have read the book, feel free to leave a comment — I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts on the subject.

I will be adding special posts for the next couple of days regarding the most special days of the Thelemic Year. Please visit my Magickal Forum, where I will be posting special Astrology Charts and Articles about Thelema, and the work of The Master Therion.

Love is the Law; Love Under Will!

Symbolism of The Easter Bunny: Many people are still unaware of the magickal attributions of the rabbit as the mascot of Eostre, the Celtic Goddess of Fertility. In the cult of Eostre, the hare was a symbol of fertility, owing to the fact of its ability to procreate at a surprising rate.

(No doubt, this info was not lost on Hugh Hefner, the mogul who made his fortune using the sign of the rabbit as his personal symbol!)

Have a wonderful holiday. And don’t forget to eat lots of chocolate bunnies!

Musical Accompaniment to the Invocation: Petrus De Bunnicum

The Greater Invocation of the Easter Bunny

Here comes Peter Cottontail
Hoppin’ down the bunny trail,
Hippity hoppity,
Easter’s on its way

Bringin’ ev’ry girl and boy
A basketful of Easter joy
Things to make your Easter
Bright and gay

He’s got jelly beans for Tommy
Colored eggs for sister Sue
There’s an orchid for your mommy
And an Easter bonnet too. Oh!

Here’ comes Peter Cottontail
Hoppin’ down the bunny trail
Hippity hoppity
Happy Easter Day

Look at him hop and listen to him say,
“Try to do the things you should”
Maybe if you’re extra good
He’ll roll lots of Easter eggs your way

You’ll wake up on Easter morning
And you’ll know that he was there
When you find those choc’late bunnies
That he’s hiding ev’rywhere, Oh!

Here’ comes Peter Cottontail
Hoppin’ down the bunny trail
Hippity hoppity
Happy Easter Day!

(Written by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins; Alfred Publishing Co., Inc.)

Astrologically, the Sun is at Zero Degrees in the First Sign of the Zodiac, Aries.

Happy Birthday to all my Aries friends. It’s a good time to get a Psychic Reading, or get your new Chart for the upcoming Solar Year.

The Birth of Spring: It’s the time of year to fall in love, a time of passion, renewal and birth! I’m always reminded of the mischievous play of the Great God Pan, chasing after the lovely nymphs in the budding woods. Allow yourself to run free, laugh and celebrate this most magickal time of the year.

Candlemagick: If you’d like to do some Candlemagick tonight, remember to burn a White or Red Candle for luck during the Waxing Moon at this time, it will bring success, energy and luck to all you do! Sign up for a Magick Class on this site, if you’d like to learn about more.

The Two Patricks: Interestingly, there are scholars who have suggested the “Theory of the Two Patricks”, suggesting that the person we know as Saint Patrick, was actually the amalgamation of two separate historical figures, however, I will simply share the story of Saint Patrick in regards to the aspects of his life which have become most accepted in modern history.

Birth Name of Patrick: The birth name of Patrick was originally Maewyn Succat, which translates as “May-born Warrior”. (Mae, “Born in the 5th Month”; Wyn, “Joy”; Succat, “Warlike”.)

Birth and Youth: Saint Patrick was allegedly born in Wales (some say Scotland, but his name belies a connection to the Welsh traditions) approximately between the years of 385-390 AD. Maewyn was born, and lived as a Pagan, for the first part of his life.

Legend has it that at the age of 16, he was kidnapped by a group of Irish marauders who raided his village, and was subsequently sold into slavery. It was during the time of his captivity as a slave that he first sought refuge in the idea of the God of the Christians.

Religious Orders: At the age of 22, Maewyn escaped from slavery and journeyed to Gaul, where he entered a monastery run by the Bishop of Auxerre, Saint Germain (not to be confused with the person known as Count Saint Germain.) Maewyn stayed at the monastery, studying for 12 years, during which time he came to the realization that his “calling” was to convert the Pagans to Christianity.

The Calling: Maewyn decided he wanted to start his lifelong mission by returning to Ireland, however his religious superiors at the monastery chose to charge Saint Palladius with the task instead. Within two years’ time, Palladius was transferred to Scotland, leaving Maewyn to become the second bishop appointed to Ireland. During his time at the monastery, Maewyn had adopted the Christian name of Patrick (meaning, “Noble”.)

Life as a Bishop: Upon his appointment as Bishop of Ireland, Patrick began living his mission of converting a great number of Pagans to Christianity, infuriating a particular group known as the Druids of Wicklow Head, who occupied Ireland at the time. In an effort to stifle his success, Patrick suffered through a series of arrests at the hands of the Druids, but managed to escape every time.

Once freed, Patrick the next 30 years roaming Ireland, establishing schools and monasteries throughout the entire country, thus enabling his relatively speedy conversion of the Irish to Christianity.

End of Life: After retiring from his active work of conversion, Patrick retired to the town of Saul, County Down, where he died on March 17th, sometime between the years of 461-464 AD (according to various legends). Since that time, people around much of the world have continued to celebrate the life and work of Patrick, who has become known as the Patron Saint of Ireland.

The Canonization of Saint Patrick: Strangely enough, Saint Patrick has never been formally canonized by any Pope of the Catholic Church! This is because for most of Christianity’s first thousand years, canonisations were done on the diocesan or regional level.

Ordinarily, soon after the death of people considered to be very holy, the local Church affirms their ability to be liturgically celebrated as saints. Since there has never been a formal affirmation by the Catholic Church, as a result of this bizarre oversight, Saint Patrick has never received a formal decree of his Sainthood!

All that aside, the lack of an “official” declaration of his sainthood, has done little to affect his popularity with millions of us who remember him, and continue to celebrate his feast day! Saint Patrick — “This Bud’s for you!”

The Lore of Saint Patrick: A great deal of Irish folklore and superstition continues to surround St. Patrick’s Day, although a great deal of this lore has never been actually substantiated.

Resuscitation of the Dead: During his life, Patrick reputedly raised people from the dead, although there are no official reports to substantiate this claim;

The Banishing of the Serpents: Most famously, Patrick was said to have “driven all the snakes out of Ireland” by the power of one of his sermons. However, science has proven that snakes have never been native to Ireland. In particular, one serpent supposedly banished from Ireland by Saint Patrick was, Caoránach. Legend has it that Caoránach was a dragon monster, said to be the mother of demons and devils. There are others who believe that this is a metaphor for Patrick’s conversion of the Pagans.

Saint Patrick’s Feast Day, a Global Celebration: Saint Patrick’s Day was originally celebrated as a Catholic Holy Day, however, the saint’s Feast Day has since become more of a secular holiday, celebrated by people from all faiths.

The Shamrock, Symbol of Saint Patrick: The traditional icon of Saint Patrick is the Shamrock, (called “Copóg Phádraig”, Gaelic) a clover leaf, which usually is made of 3 separate leaves. Ancient uses of the clover leaf was to protect one from the mischief of Fairies.

Inasmuch as Saint Patrick is concerned, the significance of the Shamrock clover was used as a way to explain the divinity of the Trinity of the Christian faith. He used the Shamrock symbol to explain the esoteric idea of the “Father, Son and the Holy Spirit”, as one being with separate functions. To this day, Catholics and other followers of the saint wear a Shamrock in his honor, upon his Feast Day.

Saint Patrick’s Day in America: The custom of celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day, arrived in America in 1737. That was the year which the Feast Day of Saint Patrick was first celebrated in America, in Boston, Massachussetts.

People continue to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day by holding parades, the “wearing of the green”, and drinking beer (sometimes green!)

Pagan Origins of Saint Patrick’s Day: It has been noted by many that Saint Patrick’s Day has become the Church’s way of allowing people to celebrate the Vernal Equinox (the birth of Spring) with the symbolizing of the color green, as well as the acceptance of the wild reveling of people at this time of the year as the “party time” of Spring Break arrives. Interesting timing, hmm?

Saint Patrick Links: To find out more about this fascinating and much-loved historical figure, feel free to check out the links on the Voxx Magickal Forum, in the Saint Section.

Today, February 18, 2007 is considered the true beginning of the New Year, according to the Chinese calendar. As such, it is the single most important celebration of the year.

The Chinese celebrate their New Year on the date of the second New Moon after the Winter Solstice (which occurs approximately on December 21st, each year).

Calculating their months by using a Lunar calendar, the Chinese start each new month on the New Moon (the “darkest” day of the Moon). Ordinarily, the celebration of the New Year begins on the first day of the month, continuing on to the fifteenth day of the month, when the Full Moon occurs (the “brightest” day of the Moon).

The people of China are able to take weeks vacation from their jobs in order to prepare and celebrate this most auspicious time of year.

Year of the Golden Fire Pig: The year 2007 is the Year of the Pig, specifically, the Red Fire Pig. In particular, this is a very special Pig year considered to be “Golden”, and it’s extremely lucky for parent to bring children into the world during the next 12 months, as the child will bring good fortune (as well as be lucky themselves.)

The Sign of the Pig: According to ancient lore, people born during the Year of the Pig, are socially adept, popular, have many loyal friends (and are wonderful friends themselves). They are diligent workers, who enjoy prosperity in order to surround themselves with the luxurious rewards for all their dedication. The are considered to be quite affectionate, and loving and make wonderful partners to whomever is lucky enough to win their love.

Famous Piggies: Hillary Rodham Clinton, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and David Letterman.

Historical Piggies: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ernest Hemingway, and Alfred Hitchcock.

If you’re interested in learning more about Chinese Astrology, or want to know more about your Chinese Astrology Sign, contact me for more info!

A Note for Singles: Since this special holiday happens to fall within the time of Mercury Retrograde, many of you will be thinking of lovers from the past. Try to keep focused on the love you want to manifest within the coming new year.

A Note for Couples: The upcoming Chinese Year of the Boar (Pig) is considered especially lucky for those of you considering adding to the family. (Of course, I’d wait until after March 21st, for the best luck!)

Attracting Love & Love Spells: In my opinion, the best Love Spell is to simply be loveable! Of course, if you think you’re loveable enough, but need some extra help in attracting a suitable partner, check out a complete list of my Love Spell Kits.

The 5th Pentacle of Venus: The magickal talisman found at the top of my post reputedly excites great passion and desire when shown to another. If you’d like to order this magickal seal, or find out about other such talismans, contact me for details!

Imbolc, literally means,”in the belly” (of the Mother), for the seeds that are planted at the Winter Solstice are beginning to grow.

Symbolism of Imbolc: This is a time for ritual purification, and is a major Fire Festival (one of 4 celebrated by the ancient Celts). Sacred fires marked this holiday, in honor of the Maiden, Brigid (also known as Brigit) who symbolized the fire of healing and birth. In essence, this holiday celebrates the beginning return of the sun.

Although this is a season of coldness and rain, the sun is actually closest to earth at this time, even though we do not feel its warmth. It is at this time that we bring light into our lives.

Symbolism of Candlemass: Known as the “Festival of Lights”, at this time, we prepare light so that the goddess Brigid may find her way out of the darkness and return to us. In pagan lore, this is the time where Brigid (the Celtic Fire Goddess) acts as midwife to Spring, and this is the beginning of that season. Brigid is the triple goddess of poetry, smithcraft, and medicine.

Myths of the Goddess Brigid: The daughter of Spring is born of the White Goddess after her sexual union with the Horned God last Beltane. Under another name, Branwen, the virgin fertility goddess is invoked at this time.

It is also customary to weave “Brigid’s Cross” from straw and hang it upon the hearth. This is made in the shape of a wheel and during a sabbat, it is rolled down a hill while burning. At this time, a Witch attempts to understand the direction his or her life is taking. The Oak King rules.

Brigit as Bride: In Ireland, the Candlemass holiday is celebrated as the Feast Day of Brigid of the Candles (also known as “Bridget of Kildare”, the Celtic goddess of fire, the hearth, smithy, fields, poetry, and childbirth.)

In this form, Brigit gives blessings to women who are about to marry. In fact, the very word “bride” comes from women who wish to honor Brigid on their wedding day! At her shrine, (the ancient Irish capitol of Kildare), a group of 9 priestesses kept a perpetual flame burning in her honor. She was considered a goddess of fire, patroness of smithcraft, poetry and healing (especially the healing touch of midwifery). This triad symbolism was occasionally expressed by saying that Brigit had two sisters, also named Brigit.

Imbolc Traditions: The wood of the rowan (also known as “Witch Tree”), placed over the door to protect against evil. If you’d like to call upon the Moon Goddess, simply light a candle in a branch of rowan. Magic wands for special purposes are made of rowan wood. In fact, a forked length of this magickal wood in the right hands has divination properties.

Traditional Celebrations: Brigid’s holiday was celebrated by kindling the Sacred Flame. She symbolized the fire of healing, the forge, and poetic inspiration. Bonfires were lighted on the tops of mountains or tors.

Altar decorations include bright colored flowers, preferably yellow, and green, although other sources mention the colors white and blue. The Altar cloth should be yellow or red. Prepare Goddess incense. Initiations are usually performed at this time.

Brigid and the Catholic Church: So faithful to the goddess Brigid were the new Christians, they refused to stop worshipping her on the holiday known as “Brigatia”. This lead Pope Serguis I (687-701 AD), to proclaim Brigid’s sainthood. Thus, Brigid became St. Brigit, the patron saint of smithcraft, poetry, and healing.

They explained this odd coincidence by creating the myth that Brigit was ‘actually’ an early Christian missionary sent to the Emerald Isle, who performed miracles which accidentally ‘misled’ the common people into believing she was a goddess. The Pope renamed Brigid’s holiday as “The Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary”.

Of course, there is much more to learn about this fascinating, magickal day, so feel free to join my Magickal Forum and visit the Wicca section; e-mail me or call my live show on Monday nights.

For More Info on Wicca: Visit my class page to find out how to register.

Candlemass Events: For listings of local events in your area, visit Witchvox.com.

Things to Do: The sign of Cancer rules the Home, Family, Motherhood, Security, Loyalty, Intuition and Nurturing. Make sure to cook something special for your loved ones today, and show them how much you love them.

Psychic Energies: The Full Moon tends to make people feel very emotional, and when the Moon is in it’s home of Cancer, people will feel even more so. Be careful what you say today, and try not to let your emotions get out of control. Watch out while driving as Cancer also rules cars and moving vehicles!

Magickal Rituals: Today is a good time to perform any rituals involving Scrying (receiving visions in a crystal or mirror); Lucid Dreaming; Astral Travel; Tarot Pathworkings; and Candle Magick for blessing the home and family. Other rituals can include Money Attraction, and Psychic Development.

Ritual Items: If you do a Lunar Ritual today, you may want to include crystals such as Moonstone, Quartz Crystal, Pearl or Abalone (sacred to the element of Water). Oils and incenses to use are Jasmine, and Amber (and Ambergris). Candle colors should be White or Silver (for Intuitive Work), or Pale Blue (for Healing).

Feel free to contact me with any questions regarding how best to perform a successful Full Moon ritual. You can also order my Magickal Spellkits, here on this site at the Voxx Store. Here’s hoping you have a truly mystical, magickal day!

I want to wish you all a wonderful Winter Solstice 2006! Today is the shortest day of the year — beginning the 22nd, the light of the Sun will shine brighter until it reaches the Summer Solstice, on June 21st, 2007. May you have a blessed, healthy, happy and prosperous New Solar Year.

The Pagan History of Christmas: The Winter Solstice is a time of great power, and has been celebrated since ancient times among many cultures throughout the world. The holiday we now call “Christmas” actually had its beginnings in the Cult of Mithras, the Sun God of the Persians, although it is believed that the origin of Mithras occurred in India around 1400 BC.

One legend of the birth of Mithras states that he sprang from the living rock or from a tree. Another tradition explains that he was born from the Cosmic Egg, while holding in his upraised hands the Sword of Truth and Torch of Light — sounds a bit like descriptions of the biblical Jesus, doesn’t it?

There are ancient artifacts depicting him surrounded by an egg-shaped frame, symbolizing the cosmic 12 Signs of the Zodiac. Many of those representations of Mithras have been found in modern-day Britain, some of which are considered to be some of the earliest surviving representation of the Signs of the Zodiac in the north-west provinces of the Roman Empire.

LVX,
Voxx

Thanksgiving: A Pagan Holiday:

For those of you with an open mind, check out these fascinating links regarding the Pagan History of Thanksgiving.

The Pagan Goddesses of Thanksgiving:

Demeter, Fortuna, Tyche, Amalthea,

The Symbolism of the Cornucopia

Wishing you all a mystical, magickal Thanksgiving Day!