Expression of Intention to Center the Focus of a Ritual

Before beginning any magical working, it can be helpful to take a moment to establish the purpose of your rite firmly in your mind. Speaking this purpose aloud (whether to yourself, to any gathered participants, or to the spirits you work with) can be helpful to center your focus and establish the tone of the working.

This spoken statement can be as simple as a single clear sentence or a short incantation naming your goal. It can also be an elaborate speech that is used to weave a story or stir emotion. Whatever works best for you and your practice (and any other participants that may take part in your ritual). Examples of a ritual’s intention might include honoring the turning of the seasons, seeking guidance through divination, or working a spell for a specific result.

By directly expressing your purpose, you help to align your thoughts, spirit, and action to your goal, and invite any additional powers you call upon to do the same. A well-spoken intention does need to be poetic or complex. It only needs to be clear and true to your purpose.