Dismissing the Spirits

In many paths of spirit-based magic (and in my own practice), spirits are not seen as tools or servants, but as beings in their own right, in possession of their own autonomy. Within my framework, when we summon spirits through ritual, we do not bind or banish them against their will. Instead, we extend hospitality, engage in respectful exchange, and when the work is done, we let them know the space is closed and the rite complete and allow them to stay or leave as they desire.

The following spoken charm is used to thank and dismiss the spirits after ritual. It can be paired with an offering if you desire, or with the blowing out of candles/removal of any items used to represent the summoned spirits.

Spirits called from hill and hollow,
Wraith and wight who dared to follow,
By charm and chant, by spoken spell,
I bid thee now a fond farewell.

 Through ash and thorn, by briar and bramble,
Slip like dusk where spirits ramble.
Wind and shadow, dust and bone,
Go ye back to the lands unknown.

No bond unbroken, no tether stays,
Part in peace by rightful ways.
By track and tide, by root and tree,
To Land of Spirit, I return thee.