To the one that I serve
Instant Magick by Chris Penczak was one of the book I am required to read as part of my training. I finished reading through the book in one day. It was an interesting read, and I did learn a lot.
The Book Instant Magick by Chris Penczak is a wonderful book. Unlike most books on spell craft and magic, this book actually starts with the basics. It is one of the best books I could recommend for beginners to read. This book has a lot to offer any one, whether they are new to magic or an old hand. Everyone should be able to get something out of this book.
I do wish that the book had started more with a definition of what magic is. While many who read the book will already have an idea of what magic is, not everyone will come from that sort of background. The reader is left to come to their own understanding of magic by the way the book is written and through the exercises given throughout the book.
The second chapter in the book is all about the components of spell crafting. At this point in my life and my studies I do have to agree that the most powerful spells I have performed are ones where I had altered my consciousness. Not every practitioner of spell crafting will agree though. In many ways while one may follow the same outlines as someone else, each practitioner must find what works for themselves and them alone.
Through out the book there are several exercises that are intended to help one start on their magical journey. From working with the Chakras to working with the planetary energies, there are many different meditations designed to help one develop a strong foundation. The book is all about exploring the various symbols to find out what works for you. Only by finding out what works for you can you really create powerful and effective spells.
Unlike other books on spell crafting where half the book is a compilation of various spells and rituals, this book only had one chapter dedicated to the spells. The spells given are not your typical spells as this book is not about traditional spell crafting. This book focuses on the mental aspects of spell crafting and using only your will, visualization, and intention for the tools. It is about finding your own personal power rather than just a book of “here is a spell, do it this way”.
The chapter on spells is a valuable resource. It gives you examples of how one may use simple acts of magic to improve their lives. The spells are not complicated and have many different associations that one may or may not decided to use in the casting of that spell. While any spell is useable as written, I recommend that one tailor the spell to fit their own personality and personal spell style.
The most useful chapter in the book is the chapter on crafting your owjn spells. While one can use the spells in the previous chapter as a base, it is important for any one who practices any form of magic to understand how to write their own spells, as the spells you write yourself will always be more effective than any spell you get out of a book. To quote the book: “Many people think of spells as scientific formulas. Once concocted they will always work for anyone. But Magick doesn't work that way. It takes a personal connection yo the forces of the universe to make magick work” (Page 61)
I did find that the circle casting technique described in the book to be very useful. I modified it during a slight ritual and it worked wonders. It is a way to create space where you can practice magic away from the world and raise energy with out being distracted by one's own situations. The circle casting like all the other spells is all about using your inner power and inner tools. It is something that can be done any where and at any time.
All in all this book is a must for any beginner. It covers spellcrafting and spells. There are no fancy ritual formulas. Simply tools that we all have. While some may argue that visulaization is not magic, the author does say: “When we intend something to happen, when we will it to happen, we are doing magick” (page 65). Every one should read this book as it clearly establishes what magic is about and how any one can perform magic.
I will give my all
