A title given to one who has gained extensive knowledge and experience with one or more magickal traditions.
Akasha-
This is a term denoting pure spirit, the fifth creative element. It is the subtle spiritual essence that pervades all space. It is not ether itself, but is an ether-like substance of a spiritual rather than material nature. Essentially, Akasha is to ether what spirit is to physical matter. (Ref 2)
Akashic Records-
Early part of this century the psychic Edgar Cayce brought to general society the thought from of Akashic records. A giant database somewhere can be accessed for information on subjects such as past lives healing, and other magickal/spiritual practices. The mind of a psychic or witch can access this through universal connections. (Ref 7)
Altar-
The altar is your main working tool storage area, during a ritual. Every thing you will need for a ritual, such as salt and water, candles, magickal weapons, food and drink, are all placed on the altar so they can be easily reached during a ritual or spell. (Altars do not have to have statues of deities on them, although you may do so if you feel it is appropriate to the nature of the work you are performing.
Altar Cloth-
A cloth that is placed over an altar or behind it to add to the energy conducted during a magickal working, Witches use many different methods to create and decorate altar cloths. The fabric type (natural is usually best) and color chosen as well as the symbols embroidered into the weave all increase the effectiveness of magickal workings.
Amulet-
An object that holds special magickal significance, usually for protection or drawing positive energy for love, prosperity or some other blessing. A pentagram is an example of an amulet for protection while an acorn amulet would help draw members of the opposite sex.
Ankh-
An Egyptian hieroglyphic that is widely used as a symbol for life, love, and reincarnation. It is depicted as a cross with a looped top. (Ref 7)
Anointing-
Is the act of blessing or magickally charging a person, place, or thing, with a drop of oil or some other special fluid. Typically candles are anointed with an oil prior to using them in a ritual or a work of magick, During a ritual of initiation it is a common practice to anoint the initiate with a special oil. In the preparation of a wand, pentacle, athame, or chalice an anointing oil is often used as well. (Ref 2)
Athame-
A ritual knife used for magickal operations or rituals preceding devotions and worship. The athame can vary widely in color and design, though commonly its blade is dual edged (representing the duality of nature) with a black handle. The blade itself can be iron, steel or some other strong metal, but some traditions of witchcraft will only sued a blade carved form wood or stone to raise energy and summon spirits because metal tends to conduct energy away from the caster rather than toward her.
Aura-
Is an energy filed surrounding living beings and inanimate objects. (Ref 7
