Questions

[Velvet]

What is a magickal name for?

What is casting a circle for?

Hmm... I'm sure I'll think of others.

[Enarienne]

A magickal name represents rebirth as a Witch or a pagan. Casting a circle is a step in a ritual used for protection, mainly.

[Velvet]

So when you become a witch/pagan you give yourself a new name, or does someone else give it to you? The circle is protection from what?

[Seren_]

What is a magickal name for?

What is casting a circle for?

Hmm... I'm sure I'll think of others.

Well a magickal name has a variety of uses. In Wicca it is a name which is generally used in a circle (coven or solitary). It's usually chosen, or given, when that person is initiated into a coven, although in solitary practice you might choose a name for yourself at your dedication. It can give us a "magical" rather than "mundane" identity which helps give the ritual a more special meaning or a greater sense of otherness, something different. The name chosen might be something personal to us, or dedicated to a particular deity we feel close to; it might express a part of us that is relevant to our beliefs.

In part, the magickal name is based on an old belief that names have power; to know someone's (or thing) true name is to have power over it - kind of like God's "true name" - to know it, is to hold the power of creation, and therefore God's power, IIRC. Some people might see the magickal name as expressing our magickal identity as a witch or Wiccan, then, a sign of our relationship with the gods. So a lot of people might keep it secret, and use it only in the context of other coven members who are initiated as well - those they trust, so that the power of your name is not misused. Not everyone holds to that belief these days.

A magic circle, in Wicca, it is a space created to contain any magical energy raised; it's kind of a focal space for ritual practice. It is usally created, cleansed and consecrated with elemental forces invoked to create a balance of energies within the circle (they also act as guardians). It's also a space which is sacred, and therefore an appropriate space for the gods to be called into, to celebrate them.

Outside of Wicca, a magic circle might be considered to be a space to keep energies out - anything that isn't desired or invited.

That's just one perspective for you, anyway.

[Velvet]

Ok, thanks.

[Shanti]

Its all depends upon the circumstances, the person or people, the path, etc. There are many reasons to your questions and many ways.

I dont use a magickal name. I only cast a circle to limit the work I am doing.