Advanced Candle Magick by Ray Buckland The author’s first book on candle magick, Practical Candleburning Rituals, is the classic text on candle magick. This book picks up where the previous left off, taking you to the next level in the art of candle magick.
Raymond Buckland was a highly influential figure in the development of modern Wicca and the occult in the United States. Born in London, he became interested in the supernatural at an early age and was initiated into the Gardnerian Wiccan tradition in 1963 by Monique Wilson, a high priestess appointed by Gerald Gardner. After emigrating to the U.S. in 1962, Buckland introduced Gardnerian Wicca to the country, founding its first coven in New York in 1964. He later developed his own tradition, Seax-Wica, inspired by Anglo-Saxon paganism, and published The Tree: Complete Book of Saxon Witchcraft to make it accessible to all. In 1968, he established the first Museum of Witchcraft and Magick in the U.S., which helped normalize and educate the public about Wicca. Over the course of his career, Buckland wrote more than sixty books on Wicca, divination, and the occult, including Witchcraft from the Inside and Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft, both regarded as essential texts in Neopaganism. Throughout his life, Buckland remained a prolific teacher, writer, and practitioner. He continued to write and teach until his death in 2017, leaving behind a lasting legacy that shaped the spiritual practices of countless Wiccans and Pagans worldwide.
i don’t agree with a lot of buckland’s beliefs anymore because as i have gotten deeper into my craft i have found better resources. i find that he purity washes witchcraft in an effort to make it seem more palatable to a white audience in a world dominated by very “purity centric” religions. there was a little of this at the beginning of the book and it annoyed me.
there also isn’t that much information in this book. most of it i already knew, and anything i didn’t i could probably find on the internet. i thought there would be more substantial content.
the only thing i like about it is the specific spells listed in there. those are very useful. but that’s pretty much it.
People either appreciate Raymond Buckland's work or they don't. His work has made a significant impact on modern day witchcraft whether or not you agree with his work. That being said, this book is 'advanced' book on candle magick, it reality, I'd consider it a regular candle magick book. I think it's a good idea to read various authors on specific topics, even the ones you disagree with as you can still gleam some wisdom or knowledge along the way at some point. He presents a well written account of what he believes to be advanced candle magick. It is worthy to be in any magickal collection.
The rituals I y understand are meant to be more complex but some of them are so unwieldy it verges on unreasonable. That said, the book remains a solid resource, especially for those seeking how to make their own candles.
There is something for everyone. Whether you are a newer witch or it’s been a decade or two, you’ll find something informational that will be beneficial. The information is still relevant all these years later. The rituals/spells are easy to follow and are explained in ways that make sense for most witches. Beginners should read the previous book prior before jumping into this one.
Even more complicated ways of making your home reak of paraffin wax. More magical fire hazards with which to ensorcel your friends, family, and enemies alike.