Hoodoo

Hello there coven members.

I'm starting a series of posts on Hoodoo. Does anyone have any requests regarding the lesson's subject matter? If not, the first one will be a short history of Hoodoo, and a basic introduction to mojo bags.

Regards, Luis

Hoodoo History Lesson

So, this will just give you a basic idea of what Hoodoo is, and how it came about.

Hoodoo IS NOT THE SAME AS Voodoo. Simply put, Voodoo is a religion, Hoodoo is a magical craft.

Voodoo is a religion from Haiti, which does incorporate some Hoodoo lore, but it is a religion, not a craft. New Orleans Voodoo, however, is an odd mix of Haitian Voodoo, Catholicism, Spiritualism and Hoodoo; this is what people generally think of when they think of Voodoo.

Hoodoo is folk magic based on the Vadun religion of the African slaves that were enslaved in the Southern states. It also contains a fair bit of herblore and European occult practices, chiefly European grimoires that were written in the 18th and 19th century. The term Hoodoo is of unknown origin, some people believe it to be a derivation of an African word for bad luck. However, the earliest recorded use of the term was by Irish sailors, to describe an ill fated ship. It is unclear when was Hoodoo actually formed into the craft used today, but it is theorized to be roughly around the time that the slave trade was popularized in the Americas (18th century). It can also be noted that Hoodoo appears to contain a lot of Christian influence, in the form of prayers to various Saints and the inclusion of holy items in some workings. This is because the African slaves were not allowed to worship their Gods under the rule of their masters, so they worshipped them in secret by pretending to pray to Christian saints. In later generations it was forgotten that the saints themselves were not worshiped, it was Vadun Gods, and consequently many Hoodoo practitioners to this day are Christian.

Mojo Bags

Mojo bag, also known as gris gris bag, jomo, root bag, and many other terms; basically just means a charm bag. A mojo bag is usually a small drawstring bag containing various ingredients, depending on what the function of the mojo bag is. These ingredients can be plants, animal parts, crystals, metals, minerals, coins, various written charms and human tissue; nails, hair, bones etc. In order for the bag to function, it must be ‘fixed’ this means performing a ritual to give the bag power. This varies between practitioners, but personally I add the ingredients one by one while concentrating on the properties each ingredient brings to the bag, as well as visualizing the overall effect the bag will have. I then call upon my ancestors to aid me in charging the bag, this is done by breathing on the finished bag while pushing energy into it (the energy can be raised by any means, it’s personal choice). This is not the end however, gris gris bags are almost unique among charms in that they posses spirit of their own if constructed correctly, because of this they require to be ‘fed’ every so often. This is done by dabbing a liquid on the bag, the liquid varies but usual ones are alcohol, hoodoo oils and bodily fluids (blech). Once you have made a mojo bag, you are attuned to it, and can usually tell when it requires more energy. As a side note, it is custom that you keep a mojo bag close to your body, and out of sight; usually in a pocket or clipped inside the clothes. If a mojo bag is touched by anyone other than it’s creator it may lose all it’s power and become useless.

I am aware that I have not given any actual details for the various ingredients used in mojo bags and the liquids used to feed them, this is because the ingredients used are personal; what works for me may not work for you. I would advise looking up plants, animal parts, crystals, metals and minerals for their properties in order to construct a mojo bag for a specific purpose. To get you started I include several mojo bag recipes from Conjuredoc’s blog (He has an account on SoM)

Mojo Bag for Gambling Luck
Ingredients:
Ginger Root
1 Silver Dime
1 Whole Nutmeg
1 Lucky Hand Root
1 Chunk of Pyrite
The ginger root is what makes this mojo hot - it hits hot and goes through a fast streak, then it dies quickly. The silver dime is a powerful luck curio - especially if it is from a leap year. A whole nutmeg works effectively to draw money especially from games of chance. Lucky hand root gives you fortunate outcomes and good luck with anything you can grab with your hands
including dice, cards, etc. Pyrite is a powerful success and money drawing curio, and the lodestone draws money and winnings your way. Put all of these items in a green flannel bag with a four-leaf clover charm sewn to the outside. Tie it up and feed it Fast Luck Oil or Hoytt's Cologne to activate it and get it burning hot.

A Mojo Bag for Respect on the Job
Ingredients:
Master Root
Sampson Snake Root
Gravel Root
Put all three ingredients in a red flannel bag, dress it with Good Job Oil and carry it in your pocket while at work. You'll gain the admiration and respect of your coworkers and a much greater sense of job security.

A Simple but Powerful Mojo Bag for Protection
Ingredients:
Chunk of Dragon's Blood
Angelica Root
Rue
The dragon's blood, as I mentioned before, uses fiery energy to deflect anything negative sent at you. Angelica root is a great herb to use for protection as it carries a very angelic, high-vibration energy that obliterates anything negative that dares go near it. Rue is a classically employed herb to deflect The Evil Eye (other people's jealousy and hatred) as well as negative entities. Put all three ingredients in a white flannel bag. Feed the mojo bag with Fiery Protection Oil to keep it strong and carry it on you whenever you desire protection.

A Mojo Bag for Love
Ingredients:
High John the Conqueror Root (if you seek to draw a woman)
Queen Elizabeth Root (if you seek to draw a man)
Lovage Root
Lodestone and magnetic sand
I personally love combining minerals and roots - it's the one-two punch that hoodoo is really known for. This mojo bag is no exception. First we use two of the most powerful roots for love: High John the Conqueror or Queen Elizabeth Root. Next, we use lovage root - to make it a committed loving relationship, not just a fling. Finally, we use a lodestone (a natural magnet) to draw that lover to you and attract them into your life. The magnetic sand is just a pinch tossed into the bag to feed the lodestone so that it works hard for you. Put all of these items in a red flannel bag along with one of your hairs. Tie it off and feed it True Love Oil once a week to keep it working.

(http://conjuredoctor.blogspot.com/2010/03/mojo-bags-your-hoodoo-secret-weapon.html)

Very nice thread Anar. I to be honest do not know much about HooDoo. I know I for one will enjoy your lessons on this subject.

Thankyou luis, a very comprehensive lesson and inviting introduction. I shall re-read so as to digest the detail properly.

This was so fasinating and very well written. I look forward to anything else you have.

Poppets

Hi there :D

I thought that I would do a thread on poppets and how to construct and use them. I hope this thread helps you.

Poppets are in essence what Hollywood represents as 'Voodoo dolls'. The straw dolls that have pins stuck in them to harm others. This is incorrect on a number of fronts however. While poppets are used by some who practice the Voodoo, it is much more common to find them in use by those who practice witchcraft. It can also be noted that poppets are more commonly used for beneficial purposes nowadays, although they can be used to harm and bind. The origins of poppets are murky and it's not really clear where the concept came from, so I will ignore it here and instead concentrate on the actual specifics of construction and use.

Poppets are one of the fundamentals of sympathetic magic. Sympathetic magic is basically the idea that you can affect a particular object, person or place by doing something to a representation of the target. Poppets are designed to represent a person. Either the caster or someone else, and the reason for constructing them is to create a link between the doll and the target which allows the working of magic.

The first step is deciding what to make your poppet out of. Many materials can be used; wax, cloth, wood, paper, clay and roots are the most common. It all depends on the purpose of the poppet. Roots poppets are most often used for love spells and are generally made from roots which resemble the human figure, ginseng and mandrake being quite popular. Paper poppets are very easy to make, and can have runes and sigils drawn on them for whatever purpose. Clay and wax poppets are reasonably easy and are useful because you can dress them with items the target has worn to create a stronger link, you can also create a hollow space in the doll to fill with other items (nail clippings etc). Cloth poppets are the most versatile in my opinion. You can use different coloured cloths for colour correspondences, fill them with herbs and other materials to suit your purpose; as well as items to create a stronger link. You can draw runes and sigils on them, or stitch them on. All that is required is basic sewing skills.

Once you have decided on the materials you will construct your poppet with, then start the process of making it, all the while imagining the targeted person and how each item added links the doll to them. When it is complete, the doll must be activated. There are a number of ways to do this, I usually formally name the doll 'I name you ______, and do so with the intention that you are a representation of ______' and then breathe on the doll to imbue it with your personal energy so that it may participate in the spell.

Now, this is the most important part. Once the doll has been constructed and activated, it is ready for use as a magical link. What you must do it affect the doll in a way that represents what you wish to happen to the target. For example, if you wish to stop someone from harming you and your family, you could bind a poppet of them with cords to represent restriction and restraint. This is hugely open to interpretation, what is important is that the actions taken on the doll accurately represent the desired actions to you. Emphasis on the you part. What makes sense to one person may be bizarre to another, so choose appropriate actions that suit you. The poppet can be used as many times as needed, and once you are finished with it you must destroy it completely to sever the link. This is usually done by ritually burning the poppet and scattering the ashes in a neutral place (a crossroads or river for example).

I provide this information with the trust that you will use it responsibly and not for mischief or malice, and I hope that it helps you further your own path.

~Luis

Powders

So, this post is a bit late, but I was busy and blah, blah, blah. I?m sure you don?t want to hear my excuses so I?ll just crack on with the post :D

Powders and their use in Hoodoo is the topic of the day
Powders have been a main staple of the Hoodoo practice for as long as it has existed in it?s current form, and for a good while before that in the Vadun religions that Hoodoo is partially based on. I?ll begin by listing the methods that a Hoodoo powder can be used, and then go on to describe how you can make your own. I?m doing it in this order because there are readymade powders that beginners can use if they so wish.

Now, you might think that using a powder is as easy as chucking it at something/someone and that?s the magic done, but this is definitely not the case. One of the simplest methods of using a powder is sprinkling, but this should be done while walking backwards. It?s also not just enough to throw the powder randomly, you must act as if sowing seeds and visualize the intended effects of your actions at the same time. Some practitioners insist on walking a specific number of steps, but I believe this to be unnecessary, however, you may choose to walk a specific number if numerology is important to you personally. Generally, you sprinkle the powder where you want the effect to take place, for example if you wanted to increase the profit of your business you would sprinkle it in the business place. This method is used for basically all variations of powders, from ones to attract luck, love and wealth, to those that curse or drive enemies away.

Some persons will anoint candles twice, once with an oil, and then again with a relevant powder. This is effective in improving the power of candles in ritual work, or indeed any work involving candles. This can also be applied to people; some persons will apply the powders directly to themselves or keep them in pockets if they wish effects of good luck or other beneficial magic to affect them throughout the whole day. Conversely, if cursing or trying to compel someone, the powder is often secretly sprinkled on them or hidden in their clothes. It is important to note that visualization is important in all the methods listed in this post; you should be vividly imagining the powders causing the desired effect while deploying the aforementioned powder.

Blowing the powder is another method commonly used, for good luck powders it is effective to blow the powder to the four compass points while reciting a blessing of your choice. Similarly, powders can be used by blowing them at the intended target, even if the target is out of sight, if you have a general idea of their direction. This is generally used for powders with negative effects however.

The last, and most complex method is that of laying tricks. This is used in many varied forms which I will list. During ritual, some persons will draw out a design with powders and lay out candles at appropriate points in the design. If affecting a building, the powder is placed in four corners of the room and then the centre. If access to the building is unavailable, the powder is placed at the outside four corners of a building. In cursing, crosses are often made of negative powders on the pavement in front of the targets house, or somewhere they are likely to walk. This is not recommended as there is division over whether the powder can affect innocent passers-by.

Now, onto making powders of your own. This can only really be done if you have a mortar and pestle, or a similar tool that will allow grinding. Automatic machines can be used, but I highly recommend doint it by hand, as this is what allows you to put your own personal intentions and energy into the working. It?s really rather simple, you just place all the ingredients in there and start grinding away while visualizing the desired effect and at the same time imbuing the powder with your own energy, raised by any method you like. If you desire you can do this in a circle with appropriate incense burning, but I have never found this to be necessary. Once you feel that the powder is ready, simply put it in a paper envelope or sachet for later use. Or use it immediately if you so desire.

Here is a list of powder recipes that I have gleaned from various sources ( I can?t remember the books or sites as it was a while ago I researched this for personal use, and I have modified them a bit):

Algiers Powder
This powder is used to attract love by dusting the body with it before going out or for luck in gambling by dusting the hands before gambling. Vanilla Oil, Patchouli, Cinnamon.

Bend Over Powder
This one is intended to send evil back to the sender, break hexes and make others do your bidding. Rose, Frankincense, Vetivert, Honeysuckle.

Blessed Powder
Does what it says on the tin :D The silver magnetic powder can be purchased at occult stores and botanicas . Lavender, Silver Magnetic Powder, Ylang Ylang, Musk.

Drawing Powder
A powder to attract good luck and assistance of all good spirits when performing magical work. Sprinkle on altar. Jasmine, Violet, Lavender.

Easy Wrath Powder
This powder is intended to eliminate hatred and anger in anyone you have annoyed. You sprinkle it on them, secretly! Ashes, Red Pepper, Rose, Jasmine, Sandalwood.

Envy and Jealousy Powder
Intended to eliminate feelings of jealousy in people you want to get along with, this powder is to be sprinkled on their door. Bayberry, Vetivert, Sassafras, Arrowroot.

French Love Powder
Not what it seems, this powder is for increasing psychic powers and producing prophetic dreams. Sprinkle on your sheets, on your tarot cards or rune stones, or dust some on yourself. Musk, Orris, Ambrgris Oil, Vetivert.

Get Away Powder
Another powder, this one is to sprinkle in the path of anyone you want to stop bothering you. You can also sprinkle it on your window sills and front porch to get rid of the Salesmen. Sulfur, Chili Powder, pinch of Asafotida

Goddess of Love Powder
A powder to rub on your hands prior to meeting with a person you are romantically interested in to encourage them to reciprocate your interest. Rose oil, Mint oil and Musk oil in a base of rose pink talc. Purchase colored talc at an occult supply or color your own with food coloring.

Happy Times Powder
This powder is used to change luck, reverse unfortunate circumstances and eliminate poverty. Sprinkle around your home. Orange Peel, Vanilla oil, Strawberry oil.

Inspiring Powder
Morale booster for those who need confidence and inspiration. Sprinkle on the person to increase their creativity, optimism and confidence. Pine, Lily, Hyacinth, Clove.

Isis Powder
A powder to increase determination, will power and concentration. Orris Root, Sweet Flag oil.

Jalop Powder
The best of the blessing and protection powders. Galangal, Rosemary, Jalop (High John the Conqueror), Orris.

Jinx Removing Powder
Sprinkle this powder all around the inside of your home to remove hexes, curses and evil spells and protect all who live there. Mint, Wintergreen, Chamomile

Jyoti Powder
A powder used for financial gain, purification, and overcoming hexes. Sprinkle powder around your home. Galangal, Nasturtium Seeds, Patchouli.

Kindly Spirit Powder
Use this powder when you want others to like and sympathize with you. Can be included in rituals to end loneliness and make friends. Lily, Hyacinth, Lemon.

Kyoto Powder
Sprinkle this powder on the head of anyone seeking healing of an illness, overcoming bad luck or just looking to have a more positive outlook. Orris, Vanilla, Clove, Lavender.

Lost and Away Powder
This powder is used to get rid of someone. Sprinkle in their path, where they will walk, or on your front porch. Dirt from a crossroad, Mistletoe, Sulfur, Orris, Sage.

Luck Around Business Powder
Use this powder to bring in new customers and increase business. The Gold Sand can be purchased at an Occult Supply or Botanica. Pulverized $1 bill, Gold Sand, Frankincense, Heliotrope oil.

Lucky Powder
Despite its name, this powder is intended to stop infidelity from starting or continuing in a marriage. Lime, Orange, Peach Blossom oil, Melon oil, in a base of yellow talc.

Money Drawing Powder
This powder protects against financial loss, and attracts money and material things. Sprinkle around the home, in the wallet or around your business. Frankincense, Heliotrope, Tonka, Gold magnetic sand.

Mount Powder
Intended to give you added physical strength, vitality and enthusiasm. Rub it on your arms and legs or sprinkle it on your altar during ritual. Basil, Rum, Bay, Thyme, Aloe.

Musk Love Powder
This powder gives the shy confidence, persistence, and will power. Musk oil, Violet or Orris oil, Vetivert.

Obitsu Powder
A powerful uncrossing powder which removes hexes and protects. Jasmine, Violet, Citronella.

Peaceful Home Powder
Sprinkle this powder around your home if you have been fighting with your partner, or the house is upset and chaotic to calm things down again. Lemon, Rose, Lilac.

Prosperity Powder
Rub this powder on your hands, sprinkle around your home or business, or circle a green candle in a prosperity ritual. Allspice, Patchouli, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Sandalwood, Orris, Orange Peel.

Protection Powder
This powder is used to protect against hexes, negativity, bad moods, you name it. Sprinkle it around your home and in your bedroom. Vetivert, Vervain, Galangal, Peppermint, Rue, Cinnamon.

Psychic Ability Powder
Increase your psychic powers with this powder which can be used when doing readings, at seances, when meditating or sprinkled on the sheets to have prophetic dreams. Mastic, Cinnamon, Sandalwood, Clove, Myrrh.

Red Rose Powder
A powder to overcome hatred between former friends and associates. Sprinkle on the person or where they will be, or use in a ritual. Rose, Mint.

Separation Powder
This powder is used to break up with someone either a relationship or a business associate. It creates animosity. Chili powder, Cinnamon, Galangal, Black Pepper, Iron Filings, Vetivert

Thief Powder
This is a powder to discover who has stolen something from you. You sprinkle it around the scene of the crime and the thief will be revealed to you. Galangal, Vetivert, Poke Root, Hydrangea.

Untruthful Powder
Rub this powder on your hands and then touch someone you feel is lying to you. They will be forced to apologise and stop lying, if they are that is. Mint, Rose, Nutmeg.

Venus Powder
Sprinkled on your clothes this powder makes you more attractive to the opposite sex and attracts a lover. Rose oil, Lavender oil, Violet oil, Musk oil, Amber oil, in a base of pink talc.

Versitile Powder
A useful powder to make you more adaptable, creative, quick thinking and increase your potential for success. Rum, Peach Blossom, Lilac, Cinnamon.

Wishbone Powder
This powder helps your dreams and wishes to come true. Sprinkle on yourself before going to bed or meditating, or use in rituals designed to achieve your dreams. Sandalwood, Orris, Allspice, Deerstongue, Musk.


Okay, that's all for now. See y'all next week :D

(Also, sorry if some weird symbols appear, that's because I write it on Word and then copy to here)

~Luis

I unlocked because I see no reason to have it locked. If it's locked then nobody can add or reply to it.