Encyclopedia of Witchcraft: The Complete A-Z for the Entire Magical World

by Judika Illes

The author of the popular  Encyclopedia of 5,000 Spells  and  Encyclopedia of Spirits  now explores the exciting magic and power of the mystical world of witches in  Encyclopedia of Witchcraft , a comprehensive reference book that covers everything you ever wanted to know about this fascinating topic. Folklore expert Judika Illes introduces readers to mythic witches, modern witches, sacred goddess witches, even demon witches, male and female witches, witches from all over the globe. She takes readers on an enchanting tour through witchcraft’s history, mythology, and folklore, where they will discover a miscellany of facts including magic spells, rituals, potions, recipes, celebrations, traditions, and much more.

Genres: Witchcraft, Spirituality, Reference, Nonfiction, History, Magic, New Age

887 pages, Hardcover

First published September 9, 2014

About the author

Born in New York City, my metaphysical career began early: My first encounter with tarot cards at age six was also my first experience of love at first sight! That passion still burns true. Although I do practice other forms of divination, tarot remains the foundation of my practice.

A lifelong pursuit of metaphysical wisdom followed and continues: astrology, mythology, Kabbalah, the Egyptian mysteries as well as spiritual, magical and healing traditions from all over Earth but particularly Africa and Asia.

I've also been a blues and free-form rock and roll disc jockey, a corporate travel consultant specializing in the Caribbean, a skin-care and cosmetics consultant, and a teacher of mythology and multicultural studies. I wrote and edited the Ancient Beauty Secrets section for the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism's monthly online magazine, which integrated modern aromatherapy with ancient methods of body care and decoration.

True love's arrows pierced my heart yet again when I first encountered a vial of essential oil. (Essential oil of frankincense, to be exact, still a favorite.) Essential oils are not true oils but potent plant extracts. Modern aromatherapy, with its roots stretching back to ancient China, Egypt, Mesopotamia and the Middle East, is the manipulation of essential oils for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. Essential oils are perhaps the purest, most potent expression of a plant's power and play a profound role in rituals, potions and spells. Many are powerful aphrodisiacs and may be used to enhance health, beauty and peace of mind.

Following over a decade of independent study, I earned a certificate in therapeutic aromatherapy. I served on the faculty of the Australasian College of Herbal Studies as an aromatherapy tutor, teaching the certification program.

My special passion for almost fifteen years has been magical and traditional approaches to fertility. Originally stimulated by own reproductive challenges, I was frustrated by the medical options offered to me. I went searching for other avenues, gentle Earth and female-friendly solutions and found them: a vast repository of women's wisdom. Two children and many years later, I still search and research, impressed and empowered by thousands of years of women's inventiveness, endurance, defiance and humor.

Reviews

[C.L. Roman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't finished this book yet, because I tend to read non-fiction in snippets, especially this kind of book where the "articles" lend themselves to that reading style. The information in it is very good, told in a comfortable, down-to-earth style that I enjoy. I'm really liking it so far and would recommend it as an excellent research volume for anyone interested in this topic.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It IS an encyclopedia....long, detailed. Better to review bits that interest one vs reading all the way through. History portions of witches very interesting for me. I think a print book qould be better than kindle version that i have

[June · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only negative would be: it should explore more about different cultures' concepts of spirituality (especially native).

However, it was such a rich reading that I feel obligated to buy the physical book when possible and adopt it as a reference book.

[Liz Thoth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very extensive, and diverse. Well formatted and an excellent resource on witchcraft.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads)]

DNF 50 pages

While there is a lot of information in this book, it's dense and not exactly a fun read. I have been struggling to stay interested and have barely put a dent into this book. I don’t think Judika’s writing is for me so I am DNF.

Content warnings: Harry Potter referenced

You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Includes some interesting folklore

[Jessica Lees · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite book that I own. Perioddddd. 😍

[Jerilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

More Than Expected!

This book by by Nicola Illes is far more than an Encyclopedia. The in-depth study and research put into this work is very evident. The information going back to the time of Jesus to date is amazing. Exposing both sides of all sides of topics is amazing and wonderful, letting the reader decide. This book is worth the purchase, worth purchasing as a gift to share. I'm amazed by the history, ready and detail. This book is awesome to keep handy as a reference book of just refresh your journey. This book is a must get, Must read, Must have.

[elizabeth keys · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent work

I have read many Witchcraft books over the years. This has been on of the most encompassing books I’ve read. The over view of each deity and the brief overview is a great starting place to understanding the world fascinating history with witchcraft.

[Joni Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this encyclopedia! Very thorough!

[Betsy Munro Jeffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very pleased with the level of detail, resources, facts and history! Relevant today. The media section is very fun.

[Jbondandrews · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hard to write a review of this book. Encyclopedias can be a mixed bag. I have read some good ones and not so good. This one was neither good nor bad. Two and a half stars.