Phoenix Ash
This ritual creates a ceremonial ash that can be used for a variety of purposes. It is a useful component for spells of elemental Fire, healing and ritual purification. I’ve also used this ritual for a friend who was dying, to make his passage easier, and ensure a positive reincarnation. (scattering the ashes afterward)
You will need:
- A square of paper, decorated on only one side, but no foil or plastic. Origami paper is ideal, but any is suitable provided it is blank on one side.
- Pen and ink
- Essential oil of frankincense or cinnamon
- Matches
- A heatproof bowl or cauldron
- An envelope to store the ashes
Cast ceremonial circle as appropriate for your magickal system. On the blank side of the paper, draw a sigil for the intent of the spell. If you are just making ash for general use, the intent is just “lend power to my Work.” Fold the paper, decorated side out, into an origami crane. Anoint with the oil (a drop or two is sufficient) and place on the heatproof bowl. Ground and center, and fix your intent. Light the match and burn the paper to ash. When the ash is cool enough, gather into the envelope.
Symbolism and Theory: This ritual recreates the death and rebirth of the Phoenix. The crane is the Phoenix, with all the symbolism and powers of the legendary bird. The cinnamon and frankincense compose its funerary nest.
