IC 2118, Witch Head Nebula

IC 2118, Witch Head Nebula

Rebel rebel by Hubble Space Telescope / ESA

Palacio de Mafra Mafra, Portugal

'Circle of the Sun' is one of the only extensively researched handbooks on the rituals of Kemetic paganism that is readily available on the market. Anyone seeking a closer relationship to the Egyptian deities will find this book immensely useful and informative. In particular, I enjoy that everything is simple to understand and nothing is left open-ended. For someone who is truly a newbie, you will have everything explained in clear words.

Some of what it contains includes:

- daily, weekly, and monthly prayers and rites

- magic, heka, and spells

- rituals for genuine Egyptian holy days

- how to self-dedicate as a solitary Kemetic, and how to choose a deity name

- hymns to all the major deities

- how to cope as a solitary Kemetic

and heaps more!

One of my favourite things about this book is that it contains a quick reference guide for the ancient Egyptian language. Whilst pronunciation is varied (we literally have no idea how some of these words were said), the spelling is relatively straight-forward. Words like 'beloved' and other praising terms make for simple prayers you can write yourself and having that guide there is super helpful.

The author has even included photos of her altar during different times of the year to give you an idea of what you could do. While mine altar is always set up how I like it, many new Kemetics struggle with how they should create an offering space that is suitable. (Hint: it's all suitable!)

There are also recipes to create your own incense, information about prominent deities... honestly, it's just a super informative book. Retailing at only $31, you can't go wrong.

Sharon LaBorde is a well-respected Kemetic recreationalist and has published a few other books as well, including 'Following the Sun', which is a practical guide to Kemetic religion and paganism. I haven't read that one, but it does differ and contain other information. Sharon's website says... "It includes major topics such as explanations of Egyptian history versus conspiracy theories, understanding the concept of ma'at (justice) and Egyptian ethics, how to build your own altar or shrine, crafting your own ritual garb and oils, and rituals and prayers for a variety of purposes. Now with expanded sections on ancient Nubia's relation to ancient Egypt, ancient polytheism and the Exodus story, and complete rituals for a Wheel of the Year. With a down-to-earth, easy to read format, this book is a must for anyone seeking to explore Egyptian Paganism."

I highly recommend this book to those who are curious! And I'd venture a guess that 'Following the Sun' is just as good.