The Magic Circle

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A circle or sphere is a well-defined though non-physical temple. In much of Wicca today, rituals and magical workings take place within such a construction of personal power. There are two main types of magic circles. Those used by ceremonial magicians are designed to protect the magician from the forces which he or she raises. In Wicca, the circle is used to create a sacred space in which humans meet with the Goddess and God. It is practically a prerequisite for indoor workings. The circle defines the ritual area, holds in personal power, shuts out distracting energies-in essence, it creates the proper atmosphere for the rites. When properly formed and visualized, the magic circle performs its function of bringing us closer to the Goddess and God. The circle is constructed with personal power which is felt as streaming from the body, through the magic knife and out into the air. When completed, the circle is a sphere of energy which encompasses the entire working area. Some kind of marking is often placed on the ground to show where the circle bisects the Earth. This might be a cord lain in a roughly circular shape, a lightly-drawn circle of chalk, or objects situated to show its outline. The circle is usually nine feet in diameter though any comfortable size is fine. The cardinal points are often marked with lit candles or the ritual tools assigned to each point. *Points North=Earth East=Air South=Fire West=Water