In history, witches have often been associated with mysterious and supernatural powers. These women were believed to possess the ability to perform magic, communicate with spirits, and cause harm to others through spells and curses. Throughout different cultures and time periods, witches have been given various names and titles. The term “witch” itself is derived from the Old English word “wicca,” which means “wise one.” Other common names for witches include sorceress, enchantress, crone, hag, and occultist. These names reflect different aspects of witchcraft and the perceived powers of those who practiced it.
These names reflect different aspects of witchcraft and the perceived powers of those who practiced it. In Norse mythology, witches were often known as “seidr” or “vǫlva.” These women were believed to have the ability to see into the future and communicate with the gods.
All about Runes and how to make your own
"There are two types of rune sets that you can create – Oracle or Healing. Oracle runes provide guidance and answers in regards to the future. Healing runes provide guidance and empowerment for the present. The process for making sacred runes below refers to Healing Runes as these give guidance to one’s wellbeing, the next step in the healing process and encourage self responsibility – all of which are vital for the client to restore balance within their life and being"
There are 24 runes in the Elder Futhark, the most popular kind of runes.
You can easily make your own. Traditionally runes are made just before sunset, the beginning of the old Viking day, if possible outdoors. On each of your runes draw one of the symbols. Red is traditionally used to mark runes, but many people use black as it is clearer to see.
For example, the runic symbol fehu can be drawn or painted on stone or crystal or drawn, carved or burned on a twig or flat piece of wood.
Making rune staves
You can also make runes from twigs that need not be more than 10-12 centimetres long and just wide enough to etch the symbol on one side. You might like to use one of the traditional runic trees, the pine, the ash, the birch or the yew, but any dry, firm wood will do, Make sure all your twigs are the same size. Scrape away the bark at the top and etch on each. Or use an engraving tool or penknife to cut the symbol and paint it red or black. Runic staves are especially lovely when they are cast in a forest clearing in a circle made from leaves or twigs or drawn in the earth
Preparing a rune cloth and bag
You may wish to buy a large square piece of cloth in a light colour and on it draw or paint or sew with running stitch a circle about 50 cm in diameter on which to cast your runes if you are working indoors. You can also improvise indoors, using a circle drawn with a stick in a large sandbox you keep for rune work (draw a fresh circle each time) or a circle outline formed from tiny crystals or pebbles again in your sandbox – forming it before you begin helps to focus on the question. Outdoors you can make your circle anywhere with a markable surface from chalk in a yard to a stick on sand in earth or in snow. By the sea you can use shells or pebbles to create the circle or draw it in sand.
Finally, you will need a bag of a natural fabric in which to keep your runes. A drawstring kind is best so that the runes do not fall out in transit. If you do make longer rune staves, then you might like a tiny set on crystals you can carry with you and, if necessary, draw a circle on paper for all those impromptu readings you will be asked to do by friends.
Choosing a rune of the day
Place the runes in your bag and each morning draw one out without looking. This will give you a good idea of what is going on in your world, as all the runes address aspects of our lives. What is more, it will suggest the strengths or qualities that will be of most help. Best of all you can then take your rune of the day to work or out with you to allow the power or protection inherent in the symbol to inspire you. Some people have a special set carved or drawn on different crystals so that they can carry with them the symbol of the day and benefit from the living energies of the crystal. It also means you don’t risk losing part of your divinatory rune set. Remember to get up ten minutes early so you can hold your rune of the day and allow images, words or impressions to form in your mind. If it is a dark morning light a white candle.
Casting the Runes - a more general reading
- Ask a question and take three runes from your bag without looking and cast them into a circle.
- Only read those runes inside the circle and if none are, it is not the right time to ask.
- Hold each rune in turn and allow pictures and impressions to come into your mind.
- Then apply the meanings below.
- If a rune falls blank side uppermost the issue may be a difficult one emotionally or it may just not be the time to manifest in your life.
- Then allow your mind to weave the rune meanings into an answer.
- If it is not clear go for a walk and ideas and solutions will come that may be continued in your dreams.
Rune Meanings
Below are listed key words and mythology and history about each rune. These form a template and in time as you study, draw and use each symbol you will find that you are adding and altering meanings. Like tea leaf symbols, they are a focus for your own inner imagery. Relax and let your intuition guide you.
The twenty four runes of the Elder Futhark, (Norse system) are traditionally divided into three sets of eight:
The Aett or Set of Freyja, Goddess of Fertility and Love
You can easily make your own. Traditionally runes are made just before sunset, the beginning of the old Viking day, if possible outdoors. On each of your runes draw one of the symbols. Red is traditionally used to mark runes, but many people use black as it is clearer to see.
They played an important role in Norse society, performing rituals and offering guidance and protection. In the European witch trials of the 16th and 17th centuries, witches were often referred to as “witches” or “sorceresses.” These trials were a dark period in history, during which thousands of people, mainly women, were accused of practicing witchcraft and executed. The names given to these accused witches were often derogatory and meant to vilify and dehumanize them. In modern times, witches have been given a variety of names, often depending on their practices and beliefs. Wicca, for example, is a modern pagan religious movement that draws on ancient witchcraft traditions. Wiccans often refer to themselves as witches and may take on magical names or titles within their coven or community. In popular culture, witches are frequently portrayed with names that evoke a sense of power and mystery. Examples include Morgana, Circe, Baba Yaga, and Maleficent. These names often have roots in mythology and folklore and have become synonymous with witches in the public imagination. Overall, the names given to witches in history reflect the fascination and fear that societies have had with these women who were believed to possess supernatural abilities. Whether seen as wise healers or as dangerous practitioners of dark magic, witches have left a lasting impact on our collective consciousness..
Reviews for "The Origins of Witch Names: Traditions and Meanings"
1. John - 1 star
The book "Witches Names in History" was a disappointment for me. I found the information to be superficial and lacking in depth. The author failed to provide any substantive analysis or historical context for the names mentioned. Instead, the book read more like a listicle, simply listing names without any meaningful explanation or insight. Overall, I was expecting a more scholarly approach to the topic, but unfortunately, this book fell short.
2. Emily - 2 stars
While "Witches Names in History" had an interesting premise, I felt it didn't deliver on its potential. The author seemed more interested in showcasing their knowledge of names rather than delving into the historical significance of these witches. The book lacked cohesion and structure, making it difficult to follow the author's train of thought. In addition, the writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it hard to stay engaged. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone looking for an in-depth exploration of witches' names in history.
3. Sarah - 2 stars
I was looking forward to reading "Witches Names in History," but unfortunately, I found it to be underwhelming. The book seemed more like a compilation of random facts rather than a comprehensive exploration of witches' names. The author failed to provide any context or analysis, leaving the reader with disjointed information. Additionally, the writing style was unengaging and repetitive, making it a chore to get through the book. Overall, I was disappointed with this read, as it promised much more than it delivered.
4. Michael - 1 star
As someone interested in history and witchcraft, I was excited to read "Witches Names in History." However, I found the book to be shallow and lacking in substance. The author barely scratched the surface when discussing the names of historical witches, failing to provide any interesting insights or uncover lesser-known details. The book felt rushed and poorly researched, leaving me more confused than informed. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone seeking a comprehensive exploration of witches' names in history.