LESSON 18
Rite of Blessing
The patron Ruler for this rite is the Sixth Ruler, which means it is based on virtues such as generosity, friendship and charity. This rite is designed to use your ability to direct divine power, putting it to work on someone else's behalf. The rite follows the ancient theurgical tradition of blessing, attracting a number of benefits to its recipients. It also works to strengthen you against the power of the Sixth Tormentor, the Vice of Avarice. To effectively bless, you must be able to access the power of the Sixth Ruler, which means you must have the habit of practicing that Ruler's virtues. A selfish, greedy, possessive operator could not possibly bless effectively because the power of the Sixth Tormentor has great (and contrary) influence on that operator's command of the powers from each Zone. The success of the Rite of Blessing depends on a sincere desire to benefit others and to overcome the lure of Avarice.
As with the other rites in this series, practice this rite for at least a week, and until you can perform it with confidence and feeling. Do not forget to always perform magical rites in between a Rite of Opening and some form of closing.
Preparation
Mark the Star of the Rulers with the symbol for the Sixth Ruler, reciting its motto. Light the Operative Candle and place it on the Star if it is not already like that. Stand facing your Oratory.
For this rite you will need either the recipient of the blessing to be present or place a token of their person upon the Star. This token may be any object or design representing the recipient for the purposes of the rite.
Performance
Join your hands together in prayer. Gazing at the Seal of the Godhead, recite:
In the name of God, who surpasses all excellence!
May the greatest blessings of worldly peace and true wealth find their way to (N.), so that they may be safe from the assaults and depredations of the Tormentors. May (N.) be always protected from theft, exploitation and abandonment, and may (they) always find everything necessary to a safe and happy journey through the World of Lights.
Pick up the Operative Candle in your non-dominant hand. Extend your other arm, palm of the hand facing the recipient (if present) or their token. Recite:
Holy are you, God, whose intelligence manifested all things!
Give (N.) a good destiny, according to the goodness they have so far demonstrated, and protect them from the Darkness, from Evil, and from Death.
Holy are you, God, whose intelligence manifested all things!
Vision
Be sure to extend a continuous flow of divine light from the Seal, to the Operative Candle, through your arms, and towards the recipient. Throughout the rite, keep the firm attitude of attracting divine blessings (as opposed to believing that it is you who are blessing) to the recipient, with the certainty that through the effects of this rite they will reap the benefits of their good thoughts, words and deeds.