Free spell for July: Awakening the Witch Flame

For this free spell we will be employing the natural shifting energy of the stars with this rhythmic tide of hot weather. Although the solstice is the de facto marker for summertime it isn’t until the rising of the Dog Star, Sirius, from the constellation of Canis Major that we actually receive the true zenith of summer. In witchlore, its ascension alongside the sun heralds a period known as the “Dog Days” that lasts for 40 days, where it is here that we experience some of the most dangerous and volatile times of the year because of the excess heat. Folklore tells of dogs and serpents becoming more aggressive, seas begin to boil, still waters are set in motion- yet these negative connotations have nothing to do with the esoteric nature of this time, as this influx of fiery energy also brings much power for the witch.

Fire in itself possesses a dynamic force, a current of energy that pulses for motion, movement, and creation. This substance can be harnessed into a constructive force to bring to the witch that want for movement for themselves that can inspire and motivate them, but for this spell we will be cultivating a unique fire that sits just above our heads known as “the Witch Flame.” This ethereal fire sits just above the head and is the center for inspiration, knowledge, intuition, passion, and your own connection to the higher powers around. This center is quintessential for our personal power and magickal abilities so in this spell we will heighten our Witch Flames to boost those innate qualities within us as the forces of summer are raised up!

This spell may be a bit advanced for many or completely different to some, but if you willing to try I highly recommend it since it is a great way to uplift and strengthen your own inner fire to regain strength, potency, vitality!

To begin you’ll want to find yourself on the morning of the 3rd of July or anytime in the morning during this month. Have with you two candles and dress your area with appropriate items that correlate with this period- whether that be seasonal flowers, red wine, snakeskin, burning incense (I highly recommend either the Fire Goddess or Uplift/ Happy incense) or simply wearing something bright or red.

Consecrate your working space and open a round (or cast a circle) facing the direction of East, then once it has been made go ahead and contemplate for a few moments on what energy you are trying to harness. Take a few moments for yourself to dwell on this and once you’re ready go ahead and take three deep breaths in before lighting the first candle. As you light it go ahead and recite the following:

Old Serpent of the mound, who bares the torch of cunning between your horns,

Whose rattle beats the rhythm of creation, be present here at my working.

Look upon me with favor Old Scratch, and grant me your illumination as I honor

The rising Dog star.

Pick up your second candle and hold it upwards saying the following:

A Star rises East, Sirius, Torch of Knowledge,

Primal Fire that creates and sustains the Cosmos,

Inner Light that dispels Darkness, let your substance

Reach and dwell within me.

Go ahead and light your second candle with the first one, then you may pause for a few moments whilst drawing in its energies. Additionally you may also intone the word “Kenaz,” three times slowly and deeply to enhance the energies present, as it is the rune of inspiration. Feel the shared connection you have with this celestial body within this tealight and envision what you seek to uplight and inspire.

When you are ready, go ahead and place the candle beside the other one, and as the two flames begin to dance, walk around them both (or simply in a circle beside them) clockwise to raise the vibrations while saying a rhythmic chant, in a unique activity known as “treading the mill.” There exists multiple chants but if not are known then simple recite the following:

The torch is raised betwixt the horns, hail to the flame in the East.

Continue until you’ve reached a light trance. When the experience has been achieved and you feel your internal fire has been uplifted and restored go ahead and ground yourself with a few deep breaths to bring you back. Once you have been fully rebalanced go ahead and bow to the East and say:

The Torch is raised within me and the Fire is lit,

Old Master be present in my Work and my Arte.

Hail to thee above, betwixt, and below.

Offer to the star and the powers that be thanks, and close the round to return to a normal fashion. 

This spell is great for those who suffer from creative blocks, burn outs, or any symptoms that make them feel “ extinguished” in a sense. It is a powerful way to reignite that spark within but do it sparingly as the great fire of Sirius is known to drive dogs mad, as well as the minds of those who indulge in its power for too long. I hope you folks enjoy and look forward for next month’s free spell!