The Witches’ Rune
“Darksome night and Shining Moon, East, then South, then West, then North,
Harken to the Witches Rune, Here come I to call thee forth.
Earth and Water, Air and Fire, Wand and Pentacle and Sword,
Work ye unto my desire, Harken ye unto my word.
Cords and Censer, Scourge and knife, Powers of the Witches Blade,
Waken all ye into life, Come ye as the Charm is made:
Queen of Heaven, Queen of Hell, Horned Hunter of the Night,
Lend your power unto the Spell, Work my will by Magic Rite.
If chant is used to reinforce a work already begun, end with this:
By all the power of land and sea, By all the might of moon and sun,
What is my will- “So mote it be,” What I do say- “It shall be done”. “
-The Gardnerian Book of Shadows by Gerald Gardner.
Origin of The Witches’ Rune
The Witches’ Rune (aka The Witches’ Chant) is attributed to Doreen Valiente, a key figure in modern witchcraft, who crafted much of the foundational rituals of Wicca during her collaboration with Gerald Gardner, the father of modern Wicca. Valiente wrote the Witches’ Rune in the 1950s as part of her efforts to provide structured rituals and poetic elements that would enrich Gardnerian Wicca practices.
The chant was designed to unify participants during rituals, raise magickal energy, and enhance the overall spiritual atmosphere. With origins rooted in the revival and creation of Wiccan traditions, it highlights Valiente’s significant role in shaping and defining Wiccan ritual practice alongside Gardner, leaving a lasting impact on the tradition.
Purpose
In a coven setting, this chant unifies the collective energy, bringing the focus of all participants in to alignment. For both covens and solo practitioners, The Witches’ Rune also raises the cone of power in a circle, building the magickal energy required for the spell to work. Furthermore, the chant is a spell in itself. It contains all the basic elements of a spell. It builds the energy, it calls on the elements, and the God and Goddess. Additionally, the chant commands the witch’s tools to work their will, and finally, commands that their will shall be done. All of these elements form the basic framework of a spell.
How to Use It
Using The Witches’ Rune effectively requires more than just reciting the words; it involves connecting with the energy of the chant and using your voice as a magickal tool. Here’s how you can use the Rune in your practice:
- Understand the Words: Before you begin, make sure you understand the meaning behind each line. This helps to focus your intention and enhance the chant’s effectiveness.
- Practice Rhythmic Chanting: The power of the Rune often comes from its rhythm. Practice chanting it in a steady, rhythmic manner that allows you to fall into a trance-like state.
- Visualise the Energy: As you chant, visualise the energy rising and swirling within the circle, growing with each repetition.
- Feel the Connection: Allow yourself to feel connected to the other participants, if in a group, or to the energies you are invoking, if working solo.
Final Thoughts
The Witches’ Rune is a powerful tool in Wiccan magick. Whether you’re conducting a solo ritual or celebrating with a coven, this chant can help you raise energy, unify intent, and enhance your magickal workings. Like any magickal tool, the effectiveness of the Rune depends on your intention, understanding, and energy. So, practice it with respect and clarity to make the most of its potent magickal properties.
Remember, as with all aspects of Wicca, your connection to the chant will grow and deepen with experience. Keep an open mind and happy chanting!