Small coins or change may be placed near the grave as well. In other traditions, tobacco leaves, burning a candle, or a stick of incense may be appropriate. Liquids, such as alcohol (whiskey, ciders, and vodka) are common, but if you’re unable or unwilling to utilize alcohol, a fruit juice such as apple or grape is appropriate, or a small morsel of honey. What you’re offering may depend on the person you’re taking it from. If you’re going to be taking dirt from a grave, it’s customary to offer something in return. Show your respect – offer thanksĬoncepts of exchange are common in many traditions. A small spice bottle (perhaps with a dash of salt at the bottom) is an ideal container you can mark on the outside when, where, and for what purpose the dirt was collected.
Most recipes only call for a pinch of graveyard dirt anyway. My recommendation is actually to use a small spoon rather than a spade, shovel, or garden instrument. The soil closest to older tombstones should also be avoided as the ground is often instrumental in keeping older markers upright. In the rare event you find any insects within the dirt, please release them. You should only be taking small amounts to begin with, but be certain not to alter the landscape.Īvoid damaging fungi and plant life. Some cemeteries consider the collection of graveyard dirt to fall under desecration of the grave. Many cemeteries close at sunset or are only open to the public during certain hours. It should go without saying that it may be best to replan your visit to a small cemetery or grave site if funeral services are in progress. They are often posted near the gates or in another prominent place. It’s important to note any rules in your local cemetery. Many cemeteries will have a formal blessing or ceremony during these three days. The new moon is useful for sending or banishing things away.Īll Hallow’s Eve, All Saints Day, and All Souls Day are particularly fortuitous times to visit.
#Graveyard dirt full
In contemporary witchcraft, the full moon is a useful time for collecting ingredients designed to bring things to you. Knowing that the first Sunday after Easter is the day your deceased grandmother would visit four cemeteries to honour her ancestors because flowers were on sale might have more meaning to you. A birth date or death date might be significant, but so might a favourite holiday or marriage anniversary. If you’re collecting dirt from an ancestor, go on an occasion of importance to your chosen ancestor. Treat the tree as you would a grave and honour it appropriately. If you’re still not certain, find the largest tree in the cemetery or at the east-most point of the cemetery. You should be able to say paying my respects and mean it. You may get a feeling that you shouldn’t it’s okay to honour that feeling.Īlways treat the grave site as if friends or family members of the deceased can walk up and ask what you are doing at any moment, just as you would for any reason when you visit cemeteries. If you’re collecting dirt for use in any kind of magical work, considering asking the individual if you can remove dirt from their grave. Sailors can be beneficial for long travels or time spent away from home.Teachers or educators can assist with matters of careers.Journalists are often helpful for uncovering the truth of things.Dirt from the writers and poets is useful for work involving inspiration or creative forces.Soldiers, firefighters, and police offers often have a vested interest in protection.Taking graveyard dirt from the grave of an ancestor is always preferred, but if you’re unable to, consider the purpose of your work. Graveyard dirt has different properties depending on whose grave you take the dirt from and what you intend to use it for. When properly procured, a small bottle of graveyard dirt can aid you in protective work, banishing spells, and creating poppets. Graveyard dirt is a staple ingredient in many witchcraft traditions and recipes. Learn more about appropriate collection and ways to use graveyard dirt. There’s more to collecting graveyard dirt than simply walking into your nearest cemetery with a shovel and a bottle.