🧚‍♂️ A Brief Introduction For Working With The Fae 🧚‍♀️ (Patreon)

Let’s talk about working with the Fae! This is a brief introduction to anyone who is interested in this topic! I know a witch in the coven chat asked for more information about working with faeries, so this post and the next post will be dedicated learning more about the Fae! Some people choose to work with the Fae and some people choose not to mess with them, so you can read the information below and the next post to learn more and make your own decision! This post is made from a bunch of sources which are listed below.

You may find that the Fair Folk are more active during the Summer Tide – or at least making themselves more known to we humans. Due to the increase in Fae activity, there is always an influx of articles being written regarding these Spirits during that time of year. However, as of late I’ve noted these articles convey overwhelming negative messages regarding the Faeries. Now most of us know that there is way more to the Fair Folk than what is popularly depicted in Disney films or Victorian Era artwork. But what I find really fascinating is the amount of push-back these articles present, urging readers to become enlightened about the true nature of the Fae. Departing from the saccharine idea image of whimsical, glitter-winged beings of benevolence, we have swung to the other end of the spectrum. Here we find Faeries who are sinister, with a penchant for kidnapping and homicide. Now I will admit that there is some truth in this dark depiction of the Fair Folk. When you look into classical folklore you will be quick to discover that Faeries are not all sunshine and sparkles. But the presentation of the Fae as malicious fiends is completely one-sided. These Spirits are nothing if not complex, and to try pigeonholing their nature is damn near impossible. Yet readers are adamantly told told avoid Faeries at all costs and those who desire an alliance are harshly written off as foolish and arrogant. However, while the folklore does show that the Fair Folk can be dangerous, it also makes one thing abundantly clear – Witches have always had an undeniably close relationship with Faeries.

There are many possible reasons for the companionship Witches have had with the Fair Folk. These theories attempt to explain why Witches, unlike most mortals, are able to safely commune with Faeries and walk in their world without inherent consequences. One of my favorite hypotheses – which was recorded by modern writer John Garland – comes from an Exmoor Cunning Man who said that Witches are Faeries half reborn in human-form. Of course there is also the fact that Witches of folklore (and today) work with the Devil, who was often named King of the Fae. Furthermore, in modern Traditional Witchcraft the Witch Mother is seen as the Queen of Elfame herself. If nothing else, perhaps it is our intimate relationship with the land that brings us closer to the Fair Folk. Unlike many mortals, Witches generally have a deep respect for the natural world and are innately more aware of it’s hidden power.

Contrary to popular sentiments that Faeries are not to be worked with, the folklore of Witches demonstrates otherwise. John Walsh of Dorset confessed in 1566 that he would freely consult with the Fair Folk in the hills at noon and midnight. Agnes Hancock of Somerset confessed in 1438 that she sought the advice of the Fae whenever she pleased. In addition to verbal consultation, it appears Witches were also welcomed on occasion into the Faerie Realm. Whereas other mortals typically only entered the Faerie Realm via kidnapping or other trickery and not allowed to leave thereafter, Witches were free to enter and to leave. An unnamed Witch from Yorkshire – who’s story was recorded by John Webster – confessed in 1653 that a finely dressed woman led him into a hill wherein was a great hall occupied by many Faeries. Then there was Isobel Gowdie who claimed to to have met with both the Queen and King of the Fae at their home in the Downie Hill.

Witches who allied themselves with the Fair Folk often found themselves blessed with special abilities or otherwise assisted in their magical work. Bessie Dunlop confessed in 1576 that her Faerie Familiar, Thom Reid, taught her which herbs to use when healing others. Anne Jefferies of Cornwall, who was tried in 1645, was sought out by many for her renowned healing powers which she explained were the result of her interactions with Faeries. Isobel Sinclair confessed in 1633 that she had dealings with the Fae who taught her about the nature of the world and blessed her with second sight. Elspeth Reoch confessed in 1616 that a Faerie man taught her how to see anything she desired. These skills were useful as means for making a living as Joan Tyrry explained in 1555, the Fair Folk “taught her such knowledge that she getteth her living by it.”

From these brief examples, we can see that although many people feared the Faeries, Witches have appeared to work with them just fine. But what about modern day practitioners? What do you do if you wish to work with the Fair Folk? My advice is as follows:

Do Your Research Upfront!

While I do believe that it’s more than possible to work harmoniously with Faeries, it’s vital that you know what you’re getting into. The Fae can be capricious and temperamental, meaning they can easily be offended. There is much in the way of helpful lore regarding proper etiquette when engaging with the Fair Folk. As with any other type of Spirit you may wish to work with, you’re going to want to do your research ahead of time in order to avoid potential faux-pas.

Be Polite!

It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to completely avoid ever offending a Faerie. Thus, the best thing you can do is to be polite and courteous – although the folklore advises us to be wary of verbally thanking the Fair Folk which they can find dismissive (I opt for a kind smile). Remember that developing healthy relationships takes time and dedication. Don’t go in making demands of the Fae, they are not slaves and do not owe us anything. Instead take it slow, communicating with respect and humility.

Remember Reciprocity!

Like any other relationship, the one you might develop with the Faeries is going to be a two-way street – meaning there will be a give and take. The Fair Folk may do you a favor but you will then owe them. However, offerings of milk and honey won’t always cut it and you might find yourself having to sacrifice something much more dear to your heart. Thus, I highly recommend communicating with the Fae and asking what they would like in return for a favor before agreeing to anything!

Protect Yourself!

It would be foolish to not include this step. Keep in mind that not all Faeries, like other Spirits or even human-beings, will have your best interest in mind. Therefore, connecting back to my first piece of advice, know how to keep yourself safe from those Fae which have malicious intent. Keep a piece of iron nearby, carry St. John’s Wort or Rowan berries, and turn a piece of your clothing inside out.

The Fair Folk have long been feared and respected. Folklore tells us many grim stories about mortals being tricked, kidnapped, injured, and even killed at the hands of Faeries. Displeased with the modern understanding of the Fae as diminutive creatures who grant wishes and bring joy to our lives, many people are turning to the classical lore as a means of pushing back against this benign characterization which they view as both naive and harmful. However, in their pursuits they have simply gone from one extreme to another – attempting to apply labels and human morals to Otherworldly beings who simply refuse to be put in a box. Whether purposefully or not, the argument that the Fair Folk are sinister and not to be trusted ignores the nuances of these Spirits and the lore itself. It overlooks the long history of Witches and Faeries working side-by-side. When approached with knowledge and reverence, the Fae can be some of the most invaluable teachers and magical allies, helping us to understand the powers of enchantment and the workings of both the natural and Otherworld. Let us not forget that!

Things to Research Before Working With the Fae

Research is the most important thing to do before heading into Faery work and witchcraft. You want to have a lot of in depth and versatile knowledge covering many areas of the topic so you’ll be able to understand and interact with the Fair Folk! If you don’t want to work with the Fair Folk you can use this list to help yourself understand them and take the proper measure if you ever stumble upon them. I know the list could go on forever but I’m compiling the topics I find build a good foundation of understanding. I have compiled this list to give those interested guidance and a push in the right direction, it is best you do your own research before asking other’s personal knowledge and opinions!!

The Basics

- Terminology ( Fae, faery, fairy, changeling, seelie, unseelie, sidhe, etc)

- The Origins of the Fae (Tuatha de Dannan, Aos Sí, Tylwyth Teg)

- Faeries in Different Cultures: Celtic (Irish, Scottish, Gaulish, French), Norse, Influences from Greek and Roman culture.

- Folklore & Myths!! ex. Oisin and Tír na nÓg , Fenian Cycle, Arthurian Legend.

- Celtic Gods, Goddesses & Heroes- strong influences and connections to the Fae

- Types of Faeries (study diverse types from pixies, brownies, pooka to Kelpies, Bwbach and Red caps) *Make sure you can at least answer who, what and where about them.

- The Otherworlds (Tir na Nog, Caer Arianrhod, Annwn, Alfheim, Svartalfheim, etc.)

- Faery Landmarks (fairy tree, fairy ring, fairy hill)

- Signs of the Fae

- Sacred Trees and Plants (Hawthorn)

- Protection!! very important

- *Bonus if you learn Celtic Culture

Getting into Working with Them

- Connecting to Nature and the Land

- How to Banish Faeries & Protect yourself, house, family, etc.

- Faery Behaviour and Proper Etiquette

- Proper Offerings, How to give an Offering

- Animals associated with the Fair Folk and Why? (raven, deer, etc)

- Faery Festivals and Holidays (Samhain, Midsummer, Beltane)

- Why certain things offend them- iron, saying “thank you”, etc.

- The Courts (Seelie, Unseelie, trooping fairies, solitary)

- Setting up a Faery Altar

- How to work with them in Rituals

- Faery Flowers, herbs and crystals

- A proper and personal way to communicate with them! This means developing psychic ability, tarot, meditation, signs, etc.

- Hagstones, heptagram/faery star

Some Good Books :)

The Fairy-Faith in Celtic Countries, by W. Y. Evans Wentz

Encyclopedia of Spirits by Judika Illes

Enchantment of the Faerie Realm by Ted Andrews

Faery Craft by Morgan Daimler

Celtic Mythology: Tales of Gods, Goddesses, and Heroes by Phillip Freeman

More About Faeries

A faerie (also fairy, fay, fae; from faery, faerie, “realm of the fays”) is a form of spirit, often described as metaphysical, supernaturalor, preternatural. Faeries resemble various beings of other mythologies, though even folklore that uses the term faerie offers many definitions. Sometimes the term describes any magical creature, including goblins or gnomes: at other times, the term only describes a specific type of more ethereal creature or sprite. I prefer to imagine them as radiances of energy—spirits of nature, if you will.

[The Faerie Courts]

The Winter Court/Unseelie Court has free reign over winter solstice and autumn equinox months, and are strongest during that time. By and by, the fae of this court are sensible, chilled, dark, baleful, and what have you. They are the epitome of winter.

The Spring Court/Seelie Court is typically seen as the much “calmer” ones to the benevolence of the Fae compared to Summer. The fae of this court are generally polite and bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. These fae are more apt to lure humans in with sweet dew. They also have blossoming curiosity. The Spring Court is strongest during the ends of winter and throughout the spring season, despite the Summer Court having reign. These fae are peppy, quiet, seductive, emotional, and vernal obviously. The epitome of spring.

The Summer Court/Seelie Court typically represents what people see as the benevolent side of the Fae. The fae of this this court are generally considered more polite or mannered, albeit they are still very capable of cruelty (but will be more hush-hush, or subtle about it). The Summer Court has free reign over summer solstice and spring equinox months, and are strongest during that time. Needless to say, the fae of this court are frivolous, venereal, hot-headed and what have you. They are the epitome of summer.

The Autumn Court/Unseelie Court is typically seen as the equally malevolent side of Fae in comparison to Winter, but much more middling. The fae of this court are generally the ones doing the “dirty work” and “trooping”. However, these fae can have much nicer sides than any of the Fae and return great favors. The Autumn Court is strongest during the ends of summer and throughout the autumn season. These fae are strong, mystique, eerie, ravishing all the same, and devious. The epitome of autumn.

There are, of course those who swear no allegiance to any Court, they are known as Solitary Fae. Nowadays, Solitaries are seen as having a neutral/balanced/common ground between the courts and they are also seen as some of the most dangerous. Living a life a as Solitary can be simple and good in some respect, but because they have chosen to be cut off from the larger support network; social interaction with others is not as available. Even so, Solitary fae can finds means of interact with others and can often be an intermediary for many purposes of Faerie and of Earth. Solitaries are usually unpredictable and have been seen as the outcasts (either banished, choosing to leave, or not choosing at all), and the “wild wee ones”. There are not many that regret their decision of being court less.

The Seelie Court is seen as more beneficent toward humans. Seelie means “Blessed” or “Holy” and is akin to German selig and Old English sælig. The modern word, “silly” which can be understood as happy, harmless, or beneficial. In Irish it is spelled seleighe. The fae of this court are known to seek out humans, to warn those who had accidentally offended them in one manner or another, and to return human kindness with favors of their own. Fae don’t like to be in debt. Even so, a faery belonging to this court will most definitely avenge insults and and are prone to much mischief. The most common time of day to see them is twilight and sometimes dawn.

The Unseelie, the “Unholy” or “Unblessed” Court consists of the malicious and more evilly-inclined fairies. Unlike the Seelie Court, offense is not necessary to bring down their foes or anyone they choose to bother for that matter. As a group, or the ‘host’ as we Fae call it, they appear at night and assault travelers either 'physically’, emotionally, and/or mentally– especially spiritually ignorant folk. Like the fairies of the Seelie Court, neither are the faries of the Unseelie court always evil. However, when one of them are forced to choose, they will naturally prefer to harm than help.

[Types of Fae]

Realm of Air

To all fae bearing winged, air is the element of choice. Every storm and breath of wind is said to be their work, from the tiniest puff to the most terrifying gale. They often take the shapes of birds, or incorporate aspects of their design into their human forms and are particularly fond of birds’ wings. Many speak the language of birds and sometimes teaching human speech to the birds. Air is a creative force, resulting in their intellectual versatility of air faeries, who work to stimulate inspiration and creativity.

Fae who fly are the most evolved of the fae, having incorporating all aspects of the four elements. Wings are symbolic of air, legs of earth, their shimmering qualities of fire, and a shape shifting aspect represents water’s fluidity. Added to these four, is the fifth magical element, moonlight.

Harbored by the element of air: Slyphs, Trows, Phooka and Fachan.

Realm of Earth

The element of famed faerie circles; earth fae are the spiritual force of nature. Residing deep in the earth, they can be found in barrows, rocks, roots, caves, caves, quarries and mine shafts.

Earth fae work in and maintain the physical structure of the earth. Because of their close relationship to metals and woods, the craftsmanship of earth faeries usually far supercedes that of humans.

I have divided the earth fae into two groups. Forest Fae and Mountain Fae.

Among the Forest Fae you will find: Pixies, Leprechauns, Brownies, Gnomes, Will'o'wisps, the Green Man, Bally Bogs and Boggarts.

Within the Mountain Fae reside: Goblins, Spriggans, Dwarfs and Trolls.

Realm of Water

Running water is a favorite haunt of faerie kind. Indeed, crossing through or over running water is a method by which their realm may be reached. Be warned that the size of the body of water is of little concern to the fae. Oceans, lakes, rivers, springs and pools are as likely as teardrops and raindrops to harbor faeries.

Water faeries heal and purify the earth. Their presence is typically communicated to humans through dreams.

Those calling the element of Water home are: Undines, Mermaids, Selkies, the Fir Darrig, Beansidhe, Leanan Sidhe, and Kelpies.

Realm of Fire

Instilled with magical properties by many societies, fire is a natural element to assign faerie phenomena. Pagan Holy Days such as Midsummer’s Eve and Samain were renowned for fairy attentions, as they gathered around ceremonial flames. Hearths, in particular, served as homes for numerous types of faeries. Bringing wealth and gifts to their masters, they are excellent workers in farmyards, workshops, kennels, or stables. Should you be so lucky as to have one residing in your home, take care to provide prompt and proper gratitude. Fire spirits reflect the volatile nature of their element and can become quite hostile when they feel slighted.

Harbored by the element of Fire: Salamanders and Drakes.

Sources:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/beautiful-fairy-in-white-dress-1545590/

https://thesilverwitch.tumblr.com/post/67301289110/the-fae/amp

https://ur-trans-witch-bitch.tumblr.com/post/622317321866936320/things-to-research-before-working-with-the-fae/amp

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/byathameandstang/2019/07/witches-faeries/