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		CASTING CIRCLES It is advisable to create a consecrated space around yourself when you are preparing to cast spells or perform other magical workings. By cleansing and activating ("making sacred") a space you dispel negative energies clinging to that physical location. To Learn More...

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A Simple Altar

From the beginning of time humans have made altars to our gods. We may claim that our deities reside in the heavens, our natural surroundings, or within our bodies, but still we want some sacred place where we can go and reestablish our contact with the divine.

Altars are raised structures or slabs of stone upon which sacrifices are offered, eucharistic elements are consecrated, or incense is burned in worship. It is also a table which serves as a center for a religious ritual. Believe it or not, some altars have actually been built on tombs. As an esoteric symbol, an altar is a sacred space, an intersection between heaven and earth. It's the door to the upper room, the higher worlds, or the inner way. It's the meeting place between you and your soul.

Today when we think of altars, the image of a grand cathedral, temple, or shrine comes to mind. Even if we regularly attend religious services, we may find it difficult to remember the details of any one particular altar. We can only recall the surrounding architectural details because most of us have never have access to this sacred area. Except for the most special occasions, the altar is cordoned off from us ordinary folk.

The picture becomes clearer when we look at the traditional religious setting as a extraordinary cultural frame built around a spiritual opening, just like our elaborate personalities are built around our souls. For those who are accustomed to complex and formalized rituals, the situation is perfect. However another kind of altar might be appropriate for those of us who are attempting to simplify our lives and live directly from our spirit. We need an altar that speaks to our souls. We need a simple altar.

From the beginning of time people have constructed simple altars in their homes, and out in nature. All you really need is a little space on the floor, an empty table top, or a rock outdoors. Tell your soul that you are dedicating this spot as your sacred meeting place. Find an inspiring object upon which you can focus your highest thoughts, dreams, prayers, or meditations. The special item can be an painting, a statue, or a crystal. The object should have value, but it doesn't have to be expensive. If you aren't sure what to use, ask your soul to help you select the sacred centerpiece.

The contents upon your altar will reflect your personal belief system. They could feature images of your deity or symbols from many faiths. They could highlight a sage, saint, or hero who has walked the path that you are taking. They could relate to memories of your ancestors or your concern for the life of a particular person, maybe someone who is ill or away in a war. Your soul will affirm that there is a spiritual aspect to anything that captures your attention. And that whatever you might want to do is simply something your soul want to experience through the picture frame of your being.

Yes, a simple altar is your individual way of conversing with your soul. Whatever the two of you want to discuss is up to you. If you are having problems in your outside life, find a image that represents it, put it on your altar, and ask for guidance. If you succeed in some area of life, bring an something to symbolize it, and give thanks. Watch the items on your altar come and go, as you grow and change. Let your simple altar evolve with the seasons. Let it reveal the events, stages, and cycles of your life. See it like like the drama of your life as viewed from your soul's eye.

The wonderful thing about a simple altar is that is available to you at anytime. So spend some time each day offering appreciation to your soul. Ask what is needed to establish a closer communication. You might told how to cleanse or consecrate the altar. You might be asked to light candles or bring fresh flowers. You might respond in absolute silence, or you may be encouraged to sing, chant, drum, or dance. Performing these simple rituals helps you to ground the sacred space you are creating.

There's nothing to say that you can't design and build your own altar. Make the design original or try something that has inspired you. It could be of simple materials like wood, fabric, stone, or clay. The design might be very simple, or you could go to great lengths to incorporate detailed workmanship. It could be portable, if you travel, or something that could last a lifetime. If you are not artistically inclined, support the creative works of a local craftsperson.

Simple altars can be private or shared with others. Friends, neighbors, or coworkers could have a group altar allowing them acknowledge a spiritual bond. A simple altar could have sacred objects from all the members of a family, and work for cohesiveness, as well as individual enlightenment. A couple could make a simple altar that promotes deeper commitment, and allows for individual spiritual freedom. Whatever type of altar you create, if it comes from your heart, your soul will be pleased.

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		CHAKRAS Part of working magic is understanding your own body, mind and spirit. When we know where we're coming from and which problems we face are produced by internal factors, we are better able to act for our own good and the good of others. Learning to perceive, understand and manipulate our chakras is a step on the path towards spiritual health. To Learn More...