To the moderators

Forgive me, this is the only way that I can see to contact you (I'm new here). I read through your rules and I find most of them to be just and in the best interest of everyone here. But there is one rule that I can't seem to understand the existence of. "English only". I can understand from your point of view that you need to be able to ensure the safety of the users of this lovey site, but I'm curious as to how far this extends. Surely, you are all learned enough to understand that many magickal paths derive from non-English speaking cultures. Would one be published for using an Italian word when speaking of strega? or a Celtic word for druidism? a Chinese word for taoism? I could go on for days, but I'm sure that you get what I mean. I don't mean to cause a stir, I only wish to be informed so that I'm not punished for making a reference using words from a language other than English. Again, this might sound silly, but I want to exist within the boundaries of SOM.

Thank you for your time,
-Palador

I'm not a moderator and I an not the admin, just to be clear. However I have been on this site off and on for over a decade. The rules regarding language is to keep a consistency and fluidity of conversation and understanding. Yes it is true many magical paths derive from non English languages, however if in chat or forums you talk about about a subject or topic and a non English word arises and you need to use it then that is usally acceptable and tolerated.

The point of the rule isn't to limit or hinder learning and understanding, it is meant to keep communication stable and consistent. Please do not fret, as long as you follow the guidelines you will be fine and it's great that you ask when you don't understand something.

By the by, welcome to spells of magic :)

~Bazir

I understand your question. There are times I'd like to use a word from the language from which a magical system derived. But the rule is clear. English only is permitted here. If you are talking about another magical system you might say something like "There is a word for this in Italian which translates as ".." in English."

As you've noted, the rule about "English only" is made so that there is no question for the Moderators as to whether another rule is being broken as well and for the safety of the members of this site.