The world of witchcraft has always been an enthralling and mysterious path to explore. From potions and spells to divination and rituals, witchcraft encompasses a wide range of practices and beliefs. As more people become interested in alternative spirituality and embracing their inner magic, the popularity of witchcraft has been on the rise. One of the most alluring aspects of witchcraft is its ability to connect individuals with the spiritual realm and tap into their own personal power. By harnessing the energy that surrounds us, witches are able to create positive change in their lives and the lives of others. This empowering aspect of witchcraft has drawn countless individuals to embark on their own magical journey.
If we're not sure about something, we can take more time to seek counsel to pray about it, but for the time being, we should avoid that thing because we're not walking forward confident that we know that that is the right thing to do. So if you have any doubts that would just encourage you to be honest with your kids about why you're not going to let them consume that media and that you just need more time to think and pray through that. And I would encourage you to do that, to really pray through this, to seek counsel from those who are within your local body of Christ, those who, not just asking everybody but those who you really respect and the way that they're raising their children. Just ask them what they think about this and how they have made these decisions.
But if we just make all of those decisions for them, and we never train them to be discerning, we re really handicapping them for when they become teens or when they become adults and they re making these decisions on their own. Finally, some advice I can wholeheartedly embrace five tips for making simple connections with nature, from touching leaves to noticing sights and sounds.
This empowering aspect of witchcraft has drawn countless individuals to embark on their own magical journey. The world of witchcraft is filled with symbolism and ancient wisdom. From using herbs and crystals to performing intricate rituals and ceremonies, witches often find solace in practicing age-old traditions that have been passed down through generations.
WRITING
Initiating readers in the fascinating and complex history of witchcraft, from the goddess mythologies of ancient cultures to the contemporary embrace of the craft by modern artists and activists, this expansive tome conjures up a breathtaking overview of an age-old tradition. Rooted in legend, folklore, and myth, the archetype of the witch has evolved from the tales of Odysseus and Circe, the Celtic seductress Cerridwen, and the myth of Hecate, fierce ruler of the moonlit night. InWitchcraft we survey her many incarnations since, as she shape-shifts through the centuries, alternately transforming into mother, nymph, and crone—seductress and destroyer.
Edited by Jessica Hundley, and co-edited by author, scholar, and practitioner Pam Grossman, this enthralling visual chronicle is the first of its kind, adeep dive into the complex symbologies behind witchcraft traditions, as explored through the history of art itself. The witch has played muse to great artists throughout time, from the dark seductions of Francisco José de Goya and Albrecht Dürer to the elegant paean to the magickal feminine as re-imagined by the Surrealist circle of Remedios Varo, Leonora Carrington, and Leonor Fini. The witch has spellbound through folktales and dramatic literature as well, from the poison apples of The Brothers Grimm, to the Weird Sisters gathered at their black cauldron in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, to L. Frank Baum’s iconic Wicked Witch of the West, cackling over the fate of Dorothy.
PRAISE FOR WITCHCRAFT
“‘Witchcraft,’ a lavish coffee-table book edited by Jessica Hundley and Pam Grossman, is a decadent feast for the eyes, laced with belladonna…The anthology posits the witch as far more than a passive muse — a formidable creative force herself.” - The New York Times
“In this compendium of witchy women, from Renaissance paintings to modern Wicca, the caricature of the evil hag is turned upside down…The witches here are powerful feminist sex goddesses whose rites and incantations are joyously subversive.” - The Guardian
“A new title from Taschen's Library of Esoterica aims to explore this wealth of complex identities in a visually vibrant volume that isn't so much a book as it is a spellbinding tribute to a figure and a practice that are as old as time.” - CNN
“Witchcraft is a celebration of true, even threatening power—by those who possess it least, and deserve it most.” - W Magazine
“In light of women’s still-fraught place in the world, Witchcraft offers readers a study of an empowered archetype that continues to evolve.” - Hyperallergic
WAKING THE WITCH: REFLECTIONS ON WOMEN, MAGIC, AND POWER
Gallery Books/Simon & Schuster
June 2019
A whip-smart and illuminating exploration of the world’s fascination with witches from podcast host and practicing witch Pam Grossman (The Witch Wave), who delves deeply into why witches have intrigued us for centuries and why they’re more relevant now than ever.
When you think of a witch, what do you picture? Pointy black hat, maybe a broomstick. But witches in various guises have been with us for millennia. In Waking the Witch, Pam Grossman explores the cultural and historical impact of the world’s most magical icon. From the idea of the femme fatale in league with the devil in early modern Europe and Salem, to the bewitching pop culture archetypes in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and Harry Potter; from the spooky ladies in fairy tales and horror films to the rise of feminist covens and contemporary witchcraft, witches reflect the power and potential of women.
In this fascinating read that is part cultural analysis, part memoir, Pam opens up about her own journey on the path to witchcraft, and how her personal embrace of the witch helped her find strength, self-empowerment, and a deeper purpose.
A comprehensive meditation on one of the most mysterious and captivating figures of all time, Waking the Witch celebrates witches past, present, and future, and reveals the critical role they have played—and will continue to play—in shaping the world as we know it.
PRAISE FOR WAKING THE WITCH
“A celebration of witches and everyday individuals whose independence and self-possession fuel their resistance and rebellion against the long-standing social contract of female disempowerment…A rich and unique mix of historical events, literary references, and contemporary popular media inform keen observations on how we have arrived at a place in which feminism and witchcraft find a cultural convergence. Reminiscent of Sarah Vowell's work and equally affecting, this intellectually satisfying, personally liberating, and remarkably humorous classic is recommended for readers of women's history, paganism, witchcraft, and feminism.” - LIBRARY JOURNAL, Starred Review
"[A] beguiling exploration of witches across history, myth, art and pop culture. Part history, part memoir, part effervescent feminist manifesto, the book takes readers on an exhilarating ride through witchy archetypes. The book fizzes with an infectious energy and paints a compelling picture of witches in all their shape-shifting complexity." - TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT
"A fun study… Feminist readers will be pleased by Grossman’s deconstruction of witch clichés.” – PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
“A fun, informative glimpse of witchcraft… Waking the Witch reflects Grossman’s ability to cast her spell with memoir, storytelling, journalism, and history… Feminists will appreciate Grossman’s in-depth, woman-focused history and analysis… A must-add for public and academic collections.” - BOOKLIST
“Pam Grossman has written a flowing history that I scarfed down like an eclair. She reminds us that witches are not monsters so much as possibilities. The archetypal, swirling symbol of ‘Witch’ is a guide to remind us that we are allowed to act on our desires AND congratulate ourselves for choosing to. I hope this book makes everyone who reads it ask themselves ‘What do I deny myself and why?’ I started this book all in, but when I read the sentence ‘Show me your witches, and I’ll show you your feelings about women,’ I knew I was done for.” - Neko Case
“Deftly illuminating the past while beckoning us towards the future, Waking the Witch has all the makings of a feminist classic. Wise, relatable and real, Pam Grossman is the witch we need for our times." - Ami McKay, author of THE WITCHES OF NEW YORK
"A masterful and moving meditation on female power and persecution, Waking the Witch deftly lifts the veil between fact and fiction, indulging joyfully and critically in the distortions and delectations that have surrounded magical women for millennia. Pam Grossman is a beacon in the world of contemporary witchcraft and neo-paganism, and this comprehensive work grounded in scholarship and cultural criticism is brought to life through intimate stories from her own life and spiritual practice. Waking the Witch is an artful gateway into a history that is both profoundly and painfully relevant today. Whether you’re intrigued by or deeply committed to the who, what, when, where, and why of the witch, this book is for you." - Kristen J. Sollée, author of WITCHES, SLUTS, FEMINISTS: CONJURING THE SEX POSITIVE
“The wonderful Pam Grossman takes us on a whirlwind tour of witches in history, literature, and the cinematic and visual arts, serving up much food for thought along the way. Her exploration of alchemical artists Leonora Carrington and Remedios Varo is no less than brilliant. But my own favorite parts of Waking the Witch are Pam’s generously-shared descriptions of her own personal journey to magic and power. Recommended!” - Judika Illes, author of ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WITCHCRAFT, ENCYCLOPEDIA OF 5000 SPELLS, and other books of magic
“Students and scholars will savor Waking the Witch’s historicism—which is brilliant—and practitioners will thrill to its understanding and inspiration. In a world of boundless choices, this is one of the singularly finest works for understanding modern witchcraft. It will never leave my bookshelf.” - Mitch Horowitz, PEN Award-winning author of OCCULT AMERICA and THE MIRACLE CLUB
“A new title from Taschen's Library of Esoterica aims to explore this wealth of complex identities in a visually vibrant volume that isn't so much a book as it is a spellbinding tribute to a figure and a practice that are as old as time.” - CNN
Furthermore, the exploration of the natural world is a significant aspect of witchcraft, as many witches hold a deep reverence for nature and its healing powers. Witchcraft also provides a sense of community and belonging for many practitioners. With the rise of social media and online platforms, witches can now connect with others who share similar beliefs and practices. This community aspect allows for the sharing of knowledge, support, and encouragement, creating a space where individuals can feel understood and appreciated. As with any spiritual path, witchcraft requires dedication and a commitment to personal growth. It is not simply a hobby or trend, but a lifelong journey of self-discovery and exploration. The enthralling nature of witchcraft lies in its ability to challenge and transform individuals, inviting them to tap into their own inner magic and embrace their true selves. In conclusion, witchcraft is an enthralling path filled with mystery, empowerment, and ancient wisdom. It offers individuals the opportunity to connect with the spiritual realm, harness their own personal power, and find a sense of community and belonging. For those who are curious and open-minded, embarking on a witchcraft path can be a truly transformative and fulfilling experience..
Reviews for "Witchcraft and Spirituality: Connecting with the Divine"
1. John - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Enthralling witchcraft path now". The story felt generic and predictable, with no real surprises. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth. The writing style was also a bit bland and did not have the captivating quality I was expecting. Overall, it was a forgettable read for me.
2. Sarah - 3 stars - While "Enthralling witchcraft path now" had an interesting premise, I found the execution to be lacking. The pacing was inconsistent, with some parts dragging on unnecessarily while others felt rushed. The world-building was also weak, leaving many unanswered questions. Additionally, the romance subplot felt forced and added little to the overall story. Although I appreciate the effort, I can't say I enjoyed this book as much as I had hoped.
3. Megan - 2.5 stars - I had high expectations for "Enthralling witchcraft path now" based on the reviews I read, but unfortunately, it fell short for me. The writing style was overly descriptive, often veering into purple prose territory. This made it difficult for me to connect with the story and the characters. Moreover, the plot was predictable and lacked originality. While it may appeal to readers who enjoy traditional witchcraft tales, it wasn't my cup of tea.
4. Andrew - 2 stars - "Enthralling witchcraft path now" failed to live up to its promise. The story lacked depth and the characters felt flat. I found the dialogue to be unconvincing and the interactions between the characters to be forced. Additionally, the pacing was slow, making it a laborious read. Overall, I was disappointed by this book and wouldn't recommend it to others looking for a truly enthralling witchcraft tale.