Sword of Light workshop

Sword legends of mysterious beings from the sea's depths, and supernatural lakes have shaped a potent image of the origins of a mysterious but powerful sword. A myth which is traceable from the early Gods to the medieval myths of Arthur, the Lady of the Lake, and stories of Faery and the Elvin folk.

We shall trace this allegorical thread from its earliest traditions within the ancient Celtic world through to the well-known stories of Excalibur and the Sword in the Stone. We shall learn how this all relates to contemporary magical practice. Within all this is the magical art of the smith whose craft was revered in early Europe. A craft that enabled our ancestors to forge the most astounding ceremonial swords which were passed down through the family or tribe and given names and a personality.

In contemporary Western Esoteric tradition the sword represents the magical practitioner's inner astral sword, their will and protection. It is a tool for casting circles and a symbol of the elements. Closer scrutiny of the sword's history in myth and in magical work reveals much more. We shall learn about the alchemy of the forge, and in actually forging our own talismanic swords we will learn about the magical use of the sword for our own personal work.

Workshop and program

Download Program

This workshop is repeat of a workshop held in the UK in 2003, and is part of the annual Grail Hallows Workshop series now being held at Centrum Athanor, Lochem, The Netherlands.

The Smith

At the heart of this tradition is the skill of the mysterious supernatural Smith. A figure that was highly revered by both the ancestors and ancient Gods alike. Through making our connections with this tradition and what lies behind it, we will create our own magical forge.

Experience the alchemy of the transformation of the elements as we learn some of the basic skills of smithcraft and forge our own astral and physical sword talisman. Bringing to life the deeper themes behind the mysteries of the Sword Hallows.

ALL NEWCOMERS ARE WELCOME, although it will be advantageous to have had some previous experience of working within the Western Magical tradition.

Acknowledgements and thanks for the use of this photograph to Steve 'Tiny' Robinson Master Blacksmith Artist (retired), Moose Creek Forge. Only American ever granted membership in the Russian Union of Blacksmiths

Contact and bookings

You can contact Helene and Joan at info@sulisminerva.eu