He leaves a small opening, then steps inside, closing the opening very carefully to prevent unwanted presences from entering. For negative magic, the magician moves wIddershIns, counterclockwise. In casting the circle, the magician moves deosIl, or clockwise, the motion of the sun, moon and stars through the sky. The circle is inscribed with magical symbols, words and Names of Power. The magician’s circle is nine feet in diameter, or a double circle of eight feet within one of 10 feet. The circle is drawn on a floor that has been carefully cleaned Salt may be sprinkled around its perimeter to reinforce the boundary. Grimoires and other magical teachings give detailed instructions for casting the circle with consecrated ritual tools, such as a dagger, sword or wand, during certain astrological conditions and hours of the day or night. The magician must never leave the circle during a ritual nor even inadvertently swing his arm outside it, lest a conjured Demon grab him and strike him down, or something unpleasant happen. The circle provides protection against them and must be cast carefully.

In ceremonial magic, the circle represents a sacred space in which the magician conjures and commands Demons and spirits that are dangerous and difficult to control. There are similarities, but some important differences. Sacred circles used in contemporary Paganism and Witchcraft are derived from Western ceremonial magic.

The remnants of stone circles in Britain attest to the importance of the circle in ancient pagan rites. Within the circle, it becomes possible to transcend the physical, to open the mind to deeper and higher levels of consciousness.Ĭircles have had a magical, protective significance since ancient times, when they were drawn around the beds of sick persons and mothers who had just given birth to protect them against Demons.

The magic circle is an archetypal symbol of wholeness, perfection and unity the creation of the cosmos the womb of mother Earth the cycle of the seasons and birthdeath-regeneration. It offers a boundary for a reservoir of concentrated power and acts as a doorway to the world of the gods. A magic circle is a sacred and purified space in which Rituals, magical work and ceremonies are conducted.

John michael higgins the magic circle