Magick Names:
What are they, and why are they used?
It is not a requirement of the Wiccan religion that you use magick name.
Many people who practice Wicca participate in the use of names that are different from their given birth names. Often these special names are refered to as "magick names". To be more specific, this term may be replaced by either of the terms "ceremonial names" or "circle names". These first term implies the use of special names during spiritual rituals. The second term more specifically refers to using a "magick name" during the practice of ritual within a protective circle, which has literally marked out upon the Earth. There are two basic reasons for the use of "circle names" or "ceremonial names". These are best explained as protection, and designation of sacred space.
One of the traditional purposes behind using a magick name is protection. Among various pagan cultures, including Wicca, it is a commonly held belief that names and the use of them involve very potent energy. Many people respect the belief that the use of one's name during ritual may in fact influence, for good or bad, the person to whom the name belongs. Some people go so far as to believe that if a person knows another's full name, they may actually be able to exert some type of control over them!
One fairly common practice derived from this belief is found in some Wiccan families; within which, it is customary for children to be given a secret, proper name at birth. Throughout childhood a different, casual name ("nickname") is used. This proper name is treated as sacred and taboo. This name is never to be spoken until the nickname is officially replaced with it, during an adolescent coming of age/initiation ceremony. For girls, it is common for such a ceremony to coincide with the first Menses or the birthday after, as this physiological change signifies a more serious shift in levels of responsibility due to maturation. The onset of the Menstrual Cycle is considered a spiritual marker, and is construed as an physical and external witness to the fact that women are inherently connected, guardians if you will, to the eternal waters of life (blood and bloodlines). Metaphorically speaking the Menses are also described as the first blossoming of a spiritual rosebud. During this time, many believe that psychic abilities in females also blossom. For boys, who do not have the convenience of such a blatant physical marker, the ceremony is often performed at the age of thirteen. The reason behind this being that it is a time that generally coincides with early adolescence, and symbolically presents a reminder of the human connection to the Moon, as there are 13 Moon cycles present during one Earthly revolution around the Sun. Psychic abilities also blossom in young men, and this is usually honored during initiation rites.
The cirumstances around using a different name only during ceremony are not always the same as the reasons for using a different name for protection. There are usually one or two concepts active within the belief necessitating the use of a "Circle Name" or "Ceremonial Name". One very important reason for using a special name is the designation of spiritual space. For some people, it is sometimes difficult to remember the spiritual aspects of Life as the physical tasks of survival can become overwhelming at times. By using a special name during spiritual ceremony a person can shed the mundane nature of daily living and tap into the energy of the ecstatic. You can think of it like saving your best made clothes for special occasions only, or how Grandma uses her best dishes and silverware for weddings, funerals, and holiday dinners only. However, it is important to note that the use of magick names is extremely important as it facilitates unity with Divine Spirit. Another extremely important reason to use a magick name is to call unto oneself specific energies from the spiritual realm. Often the name is not necessarily a description of the practioner, which is common, but has a meaning that actually encompasses desired qualities, like patience, understanding, strength, etc. By connecting with Divine ritual with the use of such a name, a practioner hopes to come to learn and commune with those desired qualities. Some practioners may actually use the given name of a deity,which creates a spiritual opening by which the Goddess or God may actually channel their essence into the practioner. The practioner for all intents and purposes becomes the deity during ritual, and is recognized as such by other members of the Circle.
In conclusion, I would like to add that many Witches never use any other name than the one their parents gave them at birth. For some people it feels very unnatural and even silly. If this practice makes you feel uncomfortable then please do not feel obligated to participate in it. And, if anyone tells you that to be a true Witch you must choose a magick name, then please refer them to the Wiccan Rede which clearly states "Harm none, Love, and do as you will!"
It is not a requirement of the Wiccan religion that you use magick name.
A. SpringDragon
August 27, 2001
How did Crysta Starr get her name?
And, how can I find mine?
Name List