The Complete Book of Magical Names

Llewellyn publications
ISBN: 1-56718-251-8
Price: $19.95 US

Often one tires of seeing the same kind of book on the market: the book that inevitably says the same thing as dozens of other books on the same subject (this subject usually being an introduction to Witchcraft, Wicca, or spellwork.) Imagine my joy then, when I find a book that picks up on one tiny (yet quite important aspect) of Wicca and Witchcraft, and expands on it!

'The Complete Book of Magical Names' is exactly that: it focuses on the long-held magical tradition of taking a magical name to use during spellwork or in a coven. Not only does it discuss the 'fashion' for names throughout different eras of history (from the Celts and Romans to the Puritan era and the Romantic Movement,) but it also includes information on naming ceremonies, name folklore, uses of magical names, and the development of the magical self and its effect on the magical name (and vice versa.) The book is a great resource, as it provides very large and intense lists of names from different countries, cultures, and languages. MacFarland also includes lists of words for the four elements, trees, herbs, etc that can be used as magical names.

Throughout the book it is made clear that there is no boundary as to what you can and cannot use as a magical name, and this acts as inspiration for the reader. MacFarland includes examples of real-life names of covens and Pagans, many of which are humourous and go to show that humour is a powerful tool in a name. The list of recorded actual Puritan names is also not to be missed: informative as well as a laugh-a-minute! (Who on earth calls their daughter Flea-Fornication and their son 'If-Christ-Had-Not-Died-for-Thee-Thou-Hads't-Been-Damned'?)

This is an excellent resource and inspiration for those seeking their own magical name, seeking to change their magical name, or just wanting insight into the significance of names in a magical sense.