The Five Arts of Witchcraft in the Rose and Thorn Path

[ghoulish]

The Rose and Thorn (or Ash, Birch and Willow) Path divides witchcraft into five interconnected arts: herbalism, divination, spirit mediumship, mysticism, and magic. They are to be studied in the order of importance; the order they are listed.

Herbalism in this path is defined as possessing both a special knowledge of plants (and their uses, of course) and a working relationship with plant spirits. The texts I’ve read so far (Old World Witchcraft: Ancient Ways for Modern Days, and Grimoire of the Thorn-Blooded Witch, both by Raven Grimmasi) list the “most important” plant spirits to build a rapport with, but I believe that one should also do so with local plant spirits. Additionally, this art includes a deep understanding of herbal medicine (which I’m currently studying).

Divination is seen as looking into patterns as they take shape; using the repeating nature of events to predict what is to come. The future is not set in stone; it merely is a collection of probabilities and potentialities. It is used to either effect change in the predicted outcome, or prepare for it.

The third art is spirit mediumship. I’ll admit, I’m a bit out of my comfort zone trying to explain this one in the context of this path, but I’ll give it my best shot. The concept of an “Ancestral Spirit”, the combined consciousness of all that have come before us, is something spoken about quite a bit. Spirit mediumship in this lens is more akin to dipping a ladle into an ocean of knowledge. The water in the ladle representing a past individual’s spirit, and through them you may commune with the greater pool of knowledge. Ancestor veneration is also encouraged; through both remembrance and ritual.

Once again out of my comfort zone to try to explain: Mysticism! I think the goal is to be able to perceive both material and non-material reality; to combine the conscious and subconscious minds into one— not dominated by one or the other. To not limit one’s perception to one realm of existence or stream of consciousness. (I hope that makes some sort of sense…)

The fifth art is magic— to use one’s will to manifest their personal will, intent, or desires. I feel this one is pretty self-explanatory on an occult forum lol.

I’ll leave off with the note that it is integral for those on this path to stay grounded in the mundane; to use all of the skills at their fingertips and not exclusively resort to mystical means to change things in their lives. That is why the creators of this path have put magic itself as the last— and least used-- art.

 

[Wildchildx11]

I do enjoy the concept of focusing on Earthy matters first, and I do think we have lost touch with nature which we should potentially regain contact with, which is probably the cause of increased mental illness such as depression and anxiety.

I feel like living in an urban area, especially a low come area where the energy can be mixed (I like how low come people can be "real", but really there are a lot of issues caused by poverty) it's really hard to connect with nature, even if you did go to a urban park, would the nature spirits be impure or have their energy mixed in with impurities? Do you have any tips for getting in touch with nature if you do live in a city and don't drive?

 

[ghoulish]

I suppose it more depends on what you believe to be the case-- I don't really believe that a plant spirit can be 'impure', but that's just my personal opinion. So, I would say that even a single tree on a path you often travel would be something worth communing with. Other ways would be to get your hands on a plant that speaks to you, and care for it in addition to communing with its spirit. Additionally, you could use the method described in both books I mentioned, and commune with generalized plant spirits using seals. Visualization and guided meditation are also very nice for gaining a connection (though a bit less tangible) with nature.

 

[Konsciencia]

I have a Guardian Tree that guards me. It's beautiful. I Love Nature.

 

[Aeternus]

Just read the thread now. I am glad to see that there is a comprehensive knowledge on Nature shared here.

Nature is beautiful and I think plants have their ability of both sending and receiving energy as well as evolve with it.

The process of metamorphosis itself can be interpreted as an adjustment of energy during the seasons.