Wands
How to make one and how to use it
The wand represents the element of fire, the direction of south, and the power of the God as consort of the Goddess. The wand is primarily used in invoking the quarters, for cleansings or purification, and as part of specific rituals. In other traditions of Wicca and Witchcraft, the wand is represented by Air, or by the direction of North or East. For the purpose of this course, the wand will be placed in the South, and the represent the element of Fire. No tools of the craft are needed to practice the Wiccan religion. When performing rituals, there are several items that are useful in representing the elements. They are also helpful as other symbolism’s used in craft workings and worship. Symbolism is an important part of a Wiccan or Witch’s work.
Your Own Wand
Before you can use a magic wand, you need to purchase or make one. Traditionally the wand is the length of the users arm, from the tip of the middle finger to the elbow. However there is no set rule that says your wand had to be a certain size, If you are more comfortable with a smaller size, then that is right for you. Making your own wand is one of the most powerful things you can do. By making your own tools, you charge them with your personal power and therefore they will work better for you! From it’s conception it is charged with your vibrations, your energy and your thoughts. It will reflect a part of you.
The wand can be made from many different materials. Some people like the feel of a metal wand, some like glass. Some wands are made of composite materials or wood purchased from your local hardware store. It doesn’t have to be expensive and it can be collected directly from nature. Take a walk through the woods near your home or visit your favorite forest area. This might be a good time to bring a book to help identify tree types and leaves.
Obtaining your wood directly from nature means you will have a more natural looking wand – complete with knots, wormholes and pieces of bark. The size of the branch should be approximately 1/2″ to 1″ thick.
The thickness will depend on how it feels in your hand. Some people will prefer the weight of a thick wand, and some prefer the petite feel of a thin wand. Traditionally, wood is a favorite material for creating a wand. Wood provides a durable and practical material. Hardwoods are best suited and are easier to craft than softwood like pine. Fresh cut wood will require a drying and bark removal procedure before starting. You may want to look for a branch that has already fallen from a tree. If you must cut a healthy branch, make your wishes known to the tree. Ask the tree’s permission to remove the branch. Remember to thank the tree for the use of it’s limb.
The wand may also be made from a variety of other things, you are only limited by your imagination!! Try using a piece of copper, a glass rod, a crystal point, modeling clay. You may add specially chosen stones, leather wrappings, feathers, herbs, talismans, or a pentagram. You can carve symbols into the surface or paint your wand, whichever you want. The wand you make is uniquely you!! If you want, you may purchase your wand, or perhaps barter for it. Your wand can be stored in a protective cloth or linen, or you may choose to leave it on your alter.
Using The Wand
A magic circle, drawn by the wand is used to protect the practitioners during rites and Holiday celebrations. It is a boundary to your consciousness. You may have heard the expression draw the line. The circle draws a line between you and the rest of the world. Hold the wand and focus energy through it. Visualize the energy emerging as a beam from the tip of the wand. The wand is considered a tool of persuasion rather then a tool of command. It is with the power of the mind that magic begins. A thought manifests it to reality. YOU control the intent.
The intensity of the focus, combined with the energy of the intent, causes the energetic idea to solidify and become real. During a ritual, the wand is most often held high while words of power are spoken to invoke specific Deities to witness the ceremony or ritual. The wand can also be used to direct energy, outline the ritual circle and draw magic symbols, One or both hands may hold the wand.
When casting a circle, you want to point the wand to the ground as you walk around the perimeter of the circle. Envision the white light coming from the tip of the wand, making a safe and secure ritual place. When taking down a cast circle, you would point the wand to the ground as you walk around the perimeter of the circle. Envision the white light coming from the ground back into the wand, opening the circle to allow exit.
The wand is also used to cut a doorway when someone has to leave the circle. Most often, leaving the circle is an emergency thing. All personal business should be handled before starting. Point the wand and trace a doorway for the person to exit. After they exit, close the doorway by retracing the doorway. When they return, repeat the steps to open and reclose the doorway.
The wand is your tool. It does not do magic, you do.
The Wand in History
The wand dates back to prehistoric times. The Greek God Hermes is represented by a wand entwined with snake and winged top, which is a symbol of power, wisdom, and healing. It was the badge of Herme’s office as messenger of the Gods and as the guide of the dead. The wand with 2 snakes, now called a Caduceus, was called a “keryleion” by the Greeks. Mercury has a sleep-producing wand. Arion, a famous musician who dwelt in the court of Periander, King of Corinth, had a wand of Ivory. Linguistic research shows the the symbol “cel” of the word Celts and”ger” of the German, both mean “wand”. Both cultures used the wand as the symbol of the axis of the solstices.
Wood in Mythology
Flails, made from Applewood, were used to thresh grain and are one of the symbols of the Pharaohs of Egypt. In Ireland, three of the “Five Magic Trees” were Ash. In Scandinavian mythology, the “enchanted” Ash, Ygdrasil, is the cosmic world tree. It’s roots and branches extend though out the universe. In northern European counties, the Goddess of Spring is seen as the Birch Goddess.
Types of Wood
Apple – This wood’s magical properties often centered around the ideals of honor.
Ash – This wood is preferred for tool handles and embodies the principals of reverence.
Beech – The magical property of beech aids the user in achieving goals and wishes by giving that person organizational skills.
Hazel – This wood is one of spiritual leadership and insight.
Hickory – This wood’s magical property is endurance, those who are firm in their beliefs and brave in their actions best use it.
Maple – The magical property is kinship, it promotes energy, healing, and enthusiasm in relationships.
Oak – This wood promotes higher planes of awareness and aids in the shifting of consciousness for magical workings.
Pine – Ritual tools made of Pine are excellent choices for those in quest of new beginnings and rebirth.
Poplar – The magical properties are protection, and resolution.
Rowan – This three was regarded as magical because of the 13 sections of it’s leaves and their correspondence to the 13 lunar months.
Willow – The magical property is healing, willow symbolizes the importance of being receptive and nurturing.