1. Religion & Spirituality

Articles Index

All About Litha

Litha, or Midsummer, is a celebration of the summer solstice. Here's where you'll find links to all kinds of information for this summer sabbat -- crafts, rituals, history and more!

Dog Folklore and Legends

Dogs have appeared as man's companions for thousands of years - naturally, they're often associated with certain magical properties. Let's look at some of the magical folklore and legends surrounding dogs.

Can I Join a Coven I Found Online?

Many Wiccans and Pagans use the Internet to find a local coven. What sort of safety tips should you keep in mind when meeting up with a coven you've found online?

The Role of Prayer in Paganism

Prayer is a conversation, sometimes one-sided and sometimes not, between us and the Divine. Although some Pagans pooh-pooh the idea of prayer as being a Christian exercise, many more understand it as a way to take a step closer to our gods.

How To Create a Daily Plan of Study

For many Wiccans and Pagans, it's hard to set aside time for reading and learning... and this can be a problem, if you're someone who wants to continue to grow spiritually! Here are some tips on how to create a daily plan of study for learning more about Wicca and Paganism.

All About Beltane

May 1 is known as May Day to many people, but for a lot of Wiccans and Pagans it's Beltane. It's a day to celebrate fertility, fire, and abundance. Learn about the traditions and trends of this Sabbat, how to hold a Maypole Dance, and some great ideas for rituals and celebrations.

Buncombe County School Board Updates

In early 2012, a controversy erupted in Asheville, NC, over the Buncombe County school board's decision to revise a policy on religious materials in public schools. Here are updates on the case.

Egg Magic and Folklore

In many magical and spiritual systems, the egg is seen as the perfect symbol of life and fertility. This isn't exclusive to NeoPagan beliefs, though. Let's look at the magic of eggs and how people have incorporated them into magic the world over.

God/Goddess Healing Ritual

Would you like to perform a healing ritual for a friend in need? Here's a simple rite that calls upon the gods of your tradition for assistance in healing and wellness.

All About Ostara, the Spring Equinox

Here's where you'll find links to all kinds of articles on Ostara -- rituals, history, crafts, recipes, and more!

Updates on the West Memphis Three (WM3)

In 1993, three young men were convicted of the brutal murder of three children in West Memphis, Arkansas. The case has gained nationwide attention and has been followed closely by many people of alternative faiths, since one of the convicted men was accused of practicing witchcraft and Satanism in the trial.

Romani Magic and Folklore

The Rom people of Europe have a rich and complex tradition of magic and folklore. Learn about some of their different beliefs - and why what is marketed as "Gypsy magic" may not be all it's cracked up to be.

2012 Predictions: Should You Be Worried?

Are you worried that something horrendous might happen in 2012? Scared that the world's going to come to an end before you're ready? Don't panic - we're going to take a look at some of the most popular 2012 theories, and talk about whether you should be worried or not.

All About Imbolc

Here's where you'll find links to all kinds of articles on Imbolc -- rituals, history, crafts, recipes, and more!

How to Hold a Rededication Ritual

Are you looking for a rededication ritual to show your deities that you're still committed to them? Try this simple ceremony designed to honor the gods of your tradition.

Mushroom Magic and Folklore

Mushrooms appear all over the place after a good storm, or you may see them while you're just out walking in the woods. Believe it or not, mushrooms have a long history in magic and folklore - some of it dating back almost nine thousand years!

2012 Pagan/Wiccan Calendar

Trying to plan your holidays in advance? There are a number of celebrations for Pagans and Wiccans throughout 2012. Check here for the dates for upcoming Sabbats in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, as well as full moon dates.

Sybil Leek's Six Tenets of Witchcraft

In some forms of traditional Wicca, there are six basic tenets. These simple principles are guidelines meant to help practitioners lead positive and spiritually fulfilling lives. Although they vary somewhat from one tradition to the next, they are nearly always similar in spirit and intent.

Negative Magic - Is Cursing/Hexing Acceptable?

A reader wants to know why there are conflicting guidelines regarding cursing and hexing. Let's look at negative magic, and how or why someone might choose to do it -- or not to.

Techonopaganism - Using New Technology to Study Old Religions

Ever wonder if you really can blend science and spirituality? Is it okay to combine modern technological advances with nature-based religions? Sure! Find out why and how the internet has changed not only what we study and how we study, but who we study it with.

What is Santeria?

Santeria is a syncretic faith that blends traditional West African magic and practice with Caribbean tradition and Roman Catholicism. Learn more about what Santeria is, and who might be practicing it.

Your Rights as a Pagan Parent

When it comes to raising our kids, it's sometimes hard to know what rights we have as Pagan or Wiccan parents. In the United States, we have the same rights as parents of any other religion. Learn how you can avoid discrimination in schools, simply by opening up the lines of communication.

Opening a Pagan Business: What to Know Before You Start

While a Pagan-based business may be similar to other start-up businesses in many respects, there are also a few key issues that Pagan entrepreneurs have to face which may be non-existent for their non-Pagan counterparts. If you're thinking of starting up your own Pagan-based business, such as a bookstore, a candle shop, or an energy-work studio, there are a few things you should probably keep in mind before you begin.

What is Shamanism?

Shamanism is a form of magical practice and belief that has been followed for thousands of years. Let's take a look at some of the historical aspects of shamanism, and how indigenous tribes around the globe have practiced it.

Updates on the James Arthur Ray Case

In October 2009, three people died during a sweat lodge ceremony in Sedona, Arizona. Self-help guru James Arthur Ray was charged with manslaughter. Read here for updates and a timeline of the case.

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