New Worlds of Body, Mind & Spirit Since 1901
| In Celtic tradition, alder, birch, elm, hazel, oak, rowan (mountain ash), willow, yew, and either holly or hawthorn are often recognized as nine "sacred woods." It is from these woods that sacred fire was made and ritual bonfires kindled. We can carry this tradition into the present by using the sacred woods for our own firecraft. If you're a traditionalist, work with these nine, but if other woods speak to you with deeper meaning, you can develop your own list. Collect small pieces of each wood, and create small bundles, tied with cotton string. Use these bundles to kindle your own ritual fires. For smaller-scale altar or candle work, work with wood shavings instead. As you light the fires, chant:
"Fire, fire, burning bright, sacred woods and kindled light." Repeat the chant until your flames are blazing. |
