wicca - rites
The circle is a magical construct used in Wiccan rites. However it is not limited only to Wiccans; it is also often used by witches and ceremonial magicians. Although their purpose for using it is slightly different. For a ceremonial magician, the circle is used to create a safe working space. It is used as protection from any external forces. A Wiccan uses the circle to create a scared space, a sort of personal temple, in which to perform a rite or cast a spell.
Personally, I use the circle to create a sort of sanctuary. It is a quiet, peaceful place I create within my normal environment. It is also my temple, my personal place of worship. It is portable, not tied to any one specific physical place. I often find that once I dismiss my circle, I carry with me the feeling of peace. It is as if the circle remains a part of me.
I see the casting of the circle as a way to set yourself apart from the regular world, your cares, etc. It is a signal to yourself that something special is about to happen, and your full attention to these matters are required. The outside world will be there when you are done, but it does not need to be brought into the circle.
A circle can be seen as representing completion, the infinite, and protection. This symbolism is used in such diverse things as tarot, mandalas, and spells. The circle can also be seen to represent the Wheel of the Year or the cycle of life.
There are no hard and fast rules for when a Wiccan should cast a circle. However, it is generally accepted that they are used for Sabbats, esbats and magic working. I think that if you are trying to create a sacred space, a temple, then it is an appropriate time to cast a circle. And remember, a simple circle ritual is just as effective as a complex one. Don't skimp on casting a circle because you feel it is to much work! It is probably time to write a simpler ritual if you feel that way.
Some people, Wiccans and others, will cast a circle for tarot reading and other divination, meditation, etc. Personally, I don't think this is necessary, unless it is a very special meditation or divination session. I feel that the use of conscious relaxation and breathing to clear your mind and/or envisioning a white light surrounding you are generally sufficient for these acts.
The "traditional" circle size is 9 feet in diameter. In my opinion, this size isn't always needed, nor is it always practical. Your circle should be large enough to hold all the ritual participants, altar, tools, etc. If it's just you, and you don't plan to dance or anything else fancy, then a small circle is just fine. You can always test out different sizes of circles. If the one from your last ritual felt to big, try a smaller one next time, or vice versa.
When you are creating and visualising your circle, keep in mind the shape as well as the size. Remember that your circle isn't flat. It is actually a sphere that extends both above you and below you, possibly through the ceiling, and definitely through the floor. In some cases, especially in tiny rooms, your circle may even clip through a chair or a table. I don't see this as a huge problem. While it is ultimately best to have a clear area, as long as you can keep up the visualisation, then a little clipping through objects is fine.
Continue to Page 2 - Casting the CircleContinue to Page 3 - Closing the Circle
