The Temple of
Shamanic Witchcraft
Christopher
Penczak
ISBN 0-7387-0767-8
2005 Llewellyn
Worldwide
$17.95 US
Christopher
Penczak is a ordained minister with The Temple of Witchcraft and
author of several books on the topic. He is also a certified Reiki
teacher, herbalist and flower essence consultant. In the past I have
personally contacted Christopher through his facebook page and found
him very approachable and friendly.
or
or to write to
the author:
Christopher
Penczak
c/o Llewellyn
Worldwide
P.O. Box 64383,
Dept. 0-7387-0767-8
St. Paul, MN
55164-0383, USA
“Shamans make
friends with the dark. Witches make friends with the dark as
well....As healers, we go into the dark shadows of others, so we must
first make friends with our own shadow.” (page 66)
This book was written as Christopher Penczak evolved during his own spiritual journey. The focus is the next step after he had mastered traditional magic. While this book is not based on deep tradition the practices are fit for the modern practitioner.
It is written as the third in a five book series. It provides exercises to be completed in a year and a a day format. The instructions for these exercises are clear and easy to follow including the meditations and rituals. Provided are many simple but helpful illustrations and charts included alongside the material.
The audience for this book is definitely skilled in the basics of meditation and protections. While the material is advanced, it is well written, easy to understand and even makes reference to the necessary prerequisite practices pointing the reader as where to find this information.
The author includes some historical content and gives recognition to the influence of other spiritual leaders and authors.
The book deals with Shamanic practices and techniques including getting in touch with shadow self. The reader can see the native American influences as well as other traditions including Celtic and tribal.
Meditation and the use of exhibitory music is necessary throughout these lessons in order to reach non ordinary reality. Saying that, I'd highly recommend the companion CD.
Dealing with the shadow self does manifest a highly emotional experience and the exercise, if started, should be followed through as the author advises.
The author guides you through The Three Worlds of the Shamans as well as the general themes or entities the reader may encounter there. You will learn how to develop relationships with spiritual allies such as power animals.
I found this book an absolute treasure, touching on things that were new, interesting and outside the basic teachings of Witchcraft. I'd recommend this book to anyone who is interested in Shaminism based heavily on New Age Witchcraft . However, this is not a path for everyone and If you suffer from depression or any similar disorders I'd recommend seeking spiritual counseling before starting the lessons. The first chapters lay the groundwork for the experience you need and additional information to help the reader decide if the path is the right path for them. The wealth of the information even if not following the specified year and a day, makes a great reference for information and materials. This book takes a top shelf in my case.
Please refer to the below site for a complete list of Christopher Penczak's other books.
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AgQmsoL9_ZR3dExpbVYzeDdnM3hxRXMwaVZmcUVlR2c#gid=0
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