World Traditions in Witchcraft

In the advanced course, we look at magical systems around the world, and perform rituals dedicated to a variety of gods and goddesses. We will also look into the common themes and ideas that many belief systems share.

As with our 'beginners' course, the syllabus given below is only an example, as certain rituals are only performed at certain times of year. We make sure the course reflects any important festivals or themes suitable for the time when it's run.

Sample Course Syllabus

Week 1:

Induction
An introduction to magical belief systems around the world. We will discuss the similarities and themes behind the beliefs - i.e. such recurring motifs as the world Tree, the underworld, nature spirits, etc. The session will conclude with a short Self Dedication Rite, the content of which will be discussed with students prior to the session.

Week 2:

Egyptian Magic Exploration and discussion of the concepts behind the Egyptian belief system An Egyptian magical circle Ritual to Isis

Week 3:

Winter Solstice - Yule ritual and party (Example - depending on time of year, this will differ.)
Our solstice ritual follows the Norse tradition and remains one of the favourites of our core magical group. Take part in a visualised ride across the sky with the Wild Host and then enjoy the Yule party. (Please bring contributions to the ritual feast. This session may go over time.)

Week 4:

Sumerian/Babylonian Magic Many belief systems across the world include a 'descent into the underworld' myth, and we will discuss the variations. In ritual and visualisation, we will explore the archetypal descent of the goddess Inanna/Ishtar, who meets with her 'dark' sister Ereshkigal in the underworld.

Week 5:

An introduction to Voodoo ritual. Voodoo is perhaps the most feared of all magical systems, but in this session we will discuss the misunderstandings and highlight the positive side of this very ancient system, which has survived intact to this day. The session concludes with a Papa Legba ritual, which incorporates elements learned by a colleague of ours from Voodoo practitioners in Cuba.

Week 6:

The Italian Tradition
The roots of modern Paganism lie in Italian Witchcraft. In this session, we will discuss how these beliefs helped Gerald Gardner create Wicca. We will also explore an allegedly more authentic version of the witches' 'Book of Shadows'. The session concludes with a rite to Aradia.

Week 7:

Festival of Imbolc (Example - owing to when course is run, there could be a different working for this session). Our Imbolc ritual follows the Celtic tradition, and is dedicated to the goddess Brigid, who is a deity of fire and inspiration.
(Please bring contributions to the ritual feast. Again, this session may go over time.)

Week 8:

The Shamanic Tradition. Various cultures around the world espouse a more shamanic approach to belief and ritual. In this session, we will explore the Slavic and Native American aspects of shamanism, and how these practices differ from mainstream Paganism. The session concludes with a shamanic rite to make contact with your totem animal.

Week 9:
(Example - owing to when course is run, there could be a different theme for this session)

Valentine's Day: we will explore the roots of Valentine customs. The Greek and Roman Traditions The Festival of Lupercalia The Roman god, Lupercus, is very similar in aspect to the Greek god Pan, in that he is a deity of vegetation and nature. His female counterpart, Lupa, is the wolf who suckled Romulus and Remus, who founded Rome. In this session, we will discuss the Arcadian tradition, and conclude with the celebration of nature festival, Lupercalia, which will take us on a visualised journey to the Golden Age forests and hills of Arcadia.

All students must be 16 years or older
No upper age limit

Certificate given upon completion of course.

Course Fee: £150 (£10 deposit secures a place)
This course also includes generous handouts. Make sure you have a big folder ready!

We are happy to make arrangements for students who wish to pay in instalments.

If you are interested in booking this course and would like to set dates at your convenience for between 2 - 8 people, please mail us at info (at) ladyoftheflame.co.uk, or call (in UK) mobile number 07855 253703. Discounts can be arranged for groups over 5 people.