"No witchcraft for sale" is a short story written by Doris Lessing that explores the conflict between traditional African culture and the encroaching influences of European colonialism. The story is set in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and follows a young boy named Teddy, who forms a bond with a native healer named Gideon. Throughout the story, there are several notable quotes that convey the themes and messages of the narrative. One of the quotes that stands out is when Gideon, the native healer, tells Teddy, "Some things are too important for a price." This quote highlights the contrast between the spiritual beliefs of the African culture and the materialistic values of the Western world. Gideon's refusal to sell his healing powers emphasizes the sacred nature of his healing abilities and his deep connection to his cultural heritage.
The Waning Moon reminds us of things yet to be done and that time is slipping away. Anxiety is usually heightened during this time; therefore, self-care is critical.
A devotion to lunar deities and lunar magick can be a powerful door into the magickal world for newbie witches, as well as a constant connection to the divine for seasoned practitioners. A devotion to lunar deities and lunar magick can be a powerful door into the magickal world for newbie witches, as well as a constant connection to the divine for seasoned practitioners.
Gideon's refusal to sell his healing powers emphasizes the sacred nature of his healing abilities and his deep connection to his cultural heritage. Another significant quote from the story is when Teddy's parents dismiss Gideon's healing practices as mere superstition and charlatanism. Teddy's mother exclaims, "I don't want any more of these half-savage ceremonies!" This quote demonstrates the dismissive and derogatory attitude that the European colonizers held towards African traditions and their lack of understanding and appreciation for the native culture.
Old World Moon Phases
The Moon is of key importance for the Old World Witch. The Moon and its cycle (increase and decrease) impact the potency of rituals and their successes. The Moon amplifies rituals and works in harmony with the energies exerted by the Witch.
As Old World Witches, we utilize elemental forces for magick and mystical significance of the natural world and its fauna and flora: Esoteric knowledge. Lore of healing. Energetic resonance of herbs and roots. And, of course, the Moon.
The Old World Witch does not follow the exact terminology and specifications of modern astrologers and astronomers. We maintain the visual interpretation and energies of the Moon, as explained below.
Dark Moon
When the Moon cannot be seen and is in the dark phase, it is referred to as the Dark Moon in Old World Witchcraft. Modern astronomers and astrologers call this darkness the New Moon because the cycle of the Moon is about to restart.
Old World Witches are not the only ones who follow this Dark Moon terminology. Several ancient cultures (such as Islam) define this period as the end of the month and the very first crescent of the Moon (Witch's New Moon) as the beginning of the month.
The Witch's Dark Moon is a night of stillness, contemplation, and banishment. The only types of rituals that should be done on the Dark Moon are banishment work or curses/hexes. The Dark Moon is also ideal for all kinds of divination and working with the departed.
The Moon is energetically at its lowest point and is more conducive to the mentioned rituals.
Witch's New Moon (first crescent)
The New Moon of the Old World Witch is called the Witch's New Moon. It is when the very first crescent or sliver of the Moon is visible. This is typically 2-3 nights after the Dark Moon.
With some variations, the Witch's New Moon rises in the daytime before noon and becomes visible in the day sky. It will be most visible at sunset and usually sets well before midnight. The Witch's New Moon is the same percentage all over the world - both in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. However, the tips of the Witch's New Moon point depend on the time, date, and location on Earth.
The Witch's New Moon is the ideal time to begin rituals that draw a life experience, physical possession, or situation to you. This can be for love, money, health, or personal development.
Rituals are best performed for 3-12 consecutive days. This is what leads to powerful, lasting, and most importantly, measurable results. Starting rituals three nights after the Dark Moon will give you exactly 12 days of rituals leading up to the Full Moon.
The Witch's New Moon is also the ideal time to begin a new venture, get married, apply for a job, or embark on a journey.
The same energetic attributes apply throughout the Waxing Moon, all the way up to the Full Moon.
Full MoonThe Full Moon is not only the most magickally potent and powerful time of the month, but it is also the most physically stimulating. As the Moon affects the ocean tides, so too does it affect our bodies. If you pay close attention to your body, you may have noticed that you may feel extra swollen or puffy on the mornings leading up to the full Moon and a couple of days thereafter. These are the days of maxi dresses, undereye concealer, and perhaps an inclination to wear fewer rings on your fingers.
Rituals are best performed for 3-12 consecutive days. This is what leads to powerful, lasting, and most importantly, measurable results. If you have been performing rituals leading up to the Full Moon, consider the night of the Full Moon the climax of your ritual.
The Full Moon signifies the cultivation of goals, the peak of a cycle, and emotional fulfillment. The Full Moon is best used to draw something into your life, such as love, financial prosperity, or self-development.
If, however, you are choosing not to perform any magick on the night of the Full Moon, simply sitting under the moon rays and energetically absorbing the magnetism will reawaken and revitalize your spirit.
Waning MoonAs the Moon wanes, the energy becomes particularly useful for ending various relationships, habits and overcoming hurdles.
Whether you're having a difficult time leaving an unsuitable relationship or are trying to eliminate negative self-talk, the Waning Moon is perfectly capable and willing to help phase out what is no longer needed or wanted.
In addition to removing negative influences from your life, this is also an appropriate time to cast revenge spells (curses).
The Waning Moon reminds us of things yet to be done and that time is slipping away. Anxiety is usually heightened during this time; therefore, self-care is critical.
The Witch's New Moon is the ideal time to begin rituals that draw a life experience, physical possession, or situation to you. This can be for love, money, health, or personal development.
Furthermore, when Gideon is eventually convinced to use his healing powers on Teddy's father, after he suffers from a snakebite, Teddy's mother observes, "There's something in that old man - something much older than we are." This quote highlights the wisdom and ancient knowledge possessed by Gideon, which surpasses the limited understanding of the Western world. It suggests that there are certain aspects of life and spirituality that cannot be fully explained or comprehended by modern science and logic. In conclusion, the quotes from "No witchcraft for sale" shed light on the clash between African and European cultures, as well as the themes of traditionalism, the value of native beliefs, and the imposition of Western ideologies. Doris Lessing's story emphasizes the importance of respecting and preserving indigenous cultures and their unique spiritual practices, even in the face of colonial domination and modernization..
Reviews for "Quotes about the Importance of Wisdom and Knowledge in "No Witchcraft for Sale"
1. Emily - 1 star - I was really disappointed with "No Witchcraft for Sale". The story started off promising and had the potential to delve deep into the complexities of race and power dynamics in colonial Africa. However, the characters lacked depth and development, making it difficult to connect with them. The writing felt bland and lacked excitement, making it a struggle to keep reading. Overall, I found this book to be a missed opportunity to explore important themes.
2. David - 2 stars - I found "No Witchcraft for Sale" to be a rather dull and predictable read. The storyline followed a predictable path and lacked any real surprises. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth, which made it difficult to feel invested in their journey. Additionally, the author's writing style felt lacking in creativity and failed to capture my attention. While the concept had potential, the execution fell flat for me.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - "No Witchcraft for Sale" was a book that I struggled to finish. The pacing was slow, and the plot felt disjointed, with various storylines that never seemed to fully come together. I also found the dialogue to be stilted and unconvincing, which made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the story. Ultimately, I was left disappointed by this book and would not recommend it to others.
4. Michael - 2 stars - I found "No Witchcraft for Sale" to be a mediocre read. The story lacked a strong central conflict and failed to build any real tension. The characters felt underdeveloped, and their actions often felt unbelievable. In addition, the writing style was dry and lacked any real spark that could have brought the narrative to life. Overall, I was left unsatisfied by this book and would not consider it a memorable read.
5. Emma - 1 star - I really struggled to get through "No Witchcraft for Sale". The plot was slow-moving and lacked any real excitement or intrigue. The characters were forgettable and poorly fleshed out, making it difficult to feel invested in their journey. Furthermore, the writing style was heavy-handed and lacked any subtlety or nuance. Overall, I found this book to be a tedious and uninspiring read.