Grimoire for the Apprentice Wizard by Oberon Zell-Ravenheart

Part 2 of 2

When he actually begins to discuss working magick, he takes the time to explain how and why it works. He relates it to things that all teens can relate to, and puts it firmly in the realm of things which are able to be done by anyone willing to put in the time and effort.

He explains how to set up altars (both indoors and outdoors), how to construct shrines and henges, and other items as well. This is where, in my opinion, he loses focus a bit. Much of the information contained in this section (4:II;2: Ritual Spaces) and in another (4:VI: The Wheel of the Year) are tied to Wiccan concepts which are not, strictly speaking, necessary to magickal workings.

There were a few typographical errors in this book, as well as a few omissions, the most notable being the omission of runes intended to be inscribed on ritual tools (although a sheet was included with the book providing the appropriate runes and calling the attention of the reader to their unintentional omission).

He includes basic instructions on a wide variety of healing techniques. He adds constant encouragement, in the form of reassurances that practice is required, and not to get discouraged if you don’t get immediate results.

This book is aimed at the total spectrum of Wizardry (like Hogwarts). It does not just cover the Ceremonial aspects of magick. It covers the spectrum from invoking angels and demons to doing simple divination; from creating planetary talismans to simple remedies for acne; and from alchemy to conjury (stage magic). Reading this book will provide a thorough understanding of wizardry. Completing the work within this book will provide a thorough mastery of the basics of wizardry.

He divides magick into the colors of the rainbow and more: Meditation (aqua); Healing (blue); Wortcunning (green); Divination (yellow); Conjury (orange); Alchemy (red); Beast Mastery (brown); Cosmology (violet); Mathemagicks (clear); Ceremonial Magick (white); Lore Mastery (grey); and the Black Arts (black). Thus, by adopting tabards or robes of the appropriate color wizards who follow this system will be able to immediately identify the specialty of those they encounter.

This book has the advantage of contributions from many people besides the main author. These varying viewpoints, and expertise, make for a balanced presentation and, like a good school, for an ability to maintain interest levels by having changes of pace and style.

Mythology is covered extensively, as are world religious views. While some may question their inclusion in a grimoire, it is vital for the apprentice to understand all that may be encountered in the performance of magick. Because of the vast amount of energy devoted to these topics over the millennia, they have a valid existence on other planes, and the magickian must be prepared to deal with them.

As with any competent teacher, Oberon not only expects you to complete the assigned exercises, but also assigns outside reading and independent research. He lets you know early on that there will be both theory and practice involved in progressing through this work, and both are equally important. He makes every effort to balance his opinions and beliefs, which is careful to identify as such, with the opinions and beliefs of others covering a wide spectrum.

For those with limited cash available, he lists many websites where information may be found. Even the most cash-strapped individuals can (and SHOULD) obtain a library card and avail themselves of the resources available there, in the form of internet access, books, magazines, etc.