Solitary Initiation Ritual
Within my own magical framework, the witch is self-sovereign. Outside of formal, initiatory systems of magic, permission to practice witchcraft does not need to be conferred by another, nor does it require the recognition and validation of a group or lineage. In this view, a witchβs craft can exist as a lived relationship with the spirits, the Spirit World, and the craft itself. For this reason, I have included a self-initiation ritual in this collection
Preparation
This rite is best performed at a crossroads or other threshold at night, or (if that is not safe or possible) within a magically conjured liminal space. (See:Threshold Rite, Witches Compass, or Conjuring the Hedge depending on the desired type of space.)
Bring the following:
A candle (to serve as your Witch Light)
A ring, cord, or piece of jewelry to bless as your token of dedication
A small offering (e.g., wine, bread, milk, or a coin)
A small amount of earth (or salt)
A small amount of powdered mugwort
Rite of Initiation
Perform your preferred rite of setting ritual space and stand at the center of the ritual area. Close your eyes. Take a moment to focus your ritual goal in your mind.
When you are ready, light the candle/Witch Light, and speak:
By road and path, by track and trail,
I stand between, I lift the veil.
Here is the place where old ones tread,
Where the living meet the dead.
Kneel and take a handful of earth or salt (symbolizing the world of the living/mundane) in one hand and the mugwort (symbolizing the realm of the spirit) in the other hand. Bring your hands before you and whisper your name over the components,[1] saying:
I call my name ___________, I make it mine,
Written in earth, in salt, in sign.
Let spirits hear and know me well,
A witch now walks between the veil.
Let the components fall slowly from your hands, sprinkling them either over your head and shoulders, or in a circle around you, as you say:
Earth to flesh, dust to bone,
I stand apart, yet not alone.
The path is open, the way is set,
A Witch is born, never to forget.
Draw in a breath, filling your lungs. Stand tall. Raise your arms and call:[2]
Gather, Spirits! And listen well!
I have sought my Initiator in the shadows and the storm,
In the whispering winds and the flickering flame.
I have found Him/Her/Them, as all who came before,
And written my name in His/Her/Their book.[3]
Hold your chosen token before you and say:
By ash and elm, by yew and thorn,
This charm is bound, my oath is sworn.
As long as I wear (or bear) it, let my craft be true,
By night and by moon, by sun and by dew.
Pass the token over the candle flame (not close enough to make it hot). Then touch it to your forehead, your heart, and your lips. Finally, wear it or tuck it into your pocket.
Leave your offering at the crossroads (alt: at a gate, the roots of a tree, a windowsill, etc.), whispering:
For those who watch,
For those who guide,
For those who walk the path beside.
Blow out the candle/Witch Light, collect your things, and leave without looking over your shoulder.
Notes:
[1] Many witches choose a Craft Name during initiation. You may use your birth name, a nickname, a spirit-given name, or any name that feels resonant. Refer to your own folklore and magical beliefs about whether to share your true name with the spirits or use a magical pseudonym.
[2] This is written for initiates who have already found their Initiator. If you have not or do not plan to work with one, use this alternative:
Gather, Spirits! And listen well!
I heard the call through mist and rain,
Through silence deep and echoing name.
I followed it beyond the known,
And in the fog, I found my home.
[3] If you wish, you may name your Initiator aloud here. For example, add:
βHis/Her/Their name is __________!β before βAnd I have written my name in His/Her/Their book!β