Modern Witchcraft For Dummies

A contemporary guide to the roots, paths and tools of witchcraft.

A new generation of witchcraft is here! Today, witchcraft encompasses many different paths and is one of the most rapidly growing sets of spiritual systems in the world. Modern Witchcraft For Dummies walks you through what it means to be a modern witch—going beyond the Euro-pagan traditions and Wicca—and how to ensure your witchcraft moves toward inclusivity and spiritual activism. Discover the roots and impact of witchcraft, consider the differences between “open” and “closed” practices, and explore the ethics of magical practice.

Within, you'll also:

• Explore histories of regional witches across the world
• Understand witchcraft archetypes and practices (with clear guidance on how to start your own practice)
• Discover the various types of witches and determine the type of witch you want to be
• Create your own altars and grimoires, set intentions, and practice your spellcasting and rituals (on your own or with a coven!)

Get ready to explore a world of powerful spiritual connectedness with Modern Witchcraft For Dummies. It's a must-read for witches, pagans, and the simply occult-curious.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Opening to Modern Witchcraft 5

Chapter 1: Reclaiming Witchcraft 7

Chapter 2: Rooting in Folk Magic 21

Chapter 3: Making Modern Magic 37

Chapter 4: With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility 53

Part 2: Dabbling in Witchy Mythologies 65

Chapter 5: Weaving the Witch 67

Chapter 6: Pulling Threads of Energy 85

Chapter 7: Spinning Magic Rituals 103

Chapter 8: Cloaking in Wisdom 119

Part 3: Practicing Your Craft 135

Chapter 9: Initiating Your Magic 137

Chapter 10: Setting Up Your Practice Space 153

Chapter 11: Casting Spells 165

Chapter 12: Ritualizing Your Life 183

Part 4: Exploring Paths of the Modern Witch 197

Chapter 13: The Divination Witch 199

Chapter 14: The Green Witch 217

Chapter 15: The Cosmic Witch 235

Chapter 16: The Energy Witch 251

Part 5: Expanding Beyond Personal Practice 267

Chapter 17: Joining a Coven 269

Chapter 18: Holding Space 283

Chapter 19: Aligning with Spiritual Activism 299

Chapter 20: Creating the Future 317

Part 6: The Part of Tens 329

Chapter 21: Ten Foundational Spells 331

Chapter 22: Ten Days of Ritual Observance 337

Appendix 341

Index 349

Lorraine Monteagut, PhD, is a queer Latine witch, astrologer, and author. Lorraine studies the diverse backgrounds and traditions of contemporary magical practices. She is the creator of Witchy Heights (@witchyheights on Instagram or witchyheights.com), where she teaches folk magic, ritual astrology, and spiritual activism.

Magic and spirituality for the modern witch

The stigma around witchcraft is fading, and Modern Witchcraft For Dummies is here to introduce you to the history, traditions, and practices of an ever-evolving spiritual path. This fun and globally minded guide goes beyond Wicca and European paganism, giving you a well-rounded foundation of knowledge to develop your own practice. You’ll also learn everyday skills so you can gather your magical tools, cast spells, form or join a coven, and become part of the new generation of witches.

Inside…

• Witchcraft around the world
• The ethics of spellcasting
• Tapping into your intuition
• Choosing a magical path
• Setting up a home altar
• Finding your community
• Creating meaningful rituals
• The future of witchcraft