7 Uses of Greeting Cards in Witchcraft ~ By the Beckoning Broom Sacerdotes

Greeting cards have been a means of communication and connection for centuries. The practice of sending greetings and well wishes has been a part of various cultures and religions around the world. In this article, we will explore greeting cards within a magickal perspective.

Origins of Greeting Cards

The tradition of sending greetings through written messages dates back to ancient civilisations. Ancient Chinese civilisations used to exchange handwritten, goodwill messages to celebrate the new coming year.

But the tradition was not only found in China, but ancient Egyptians also sent their loved ones papyrus scrolls during festivals and special occasions. The earliest record of birthday cards being sent is in Ancient Rome where they would use wooden tablets to write their birthday invitations and wishes.

In the Occult

There are greeting cards that feature images of witches, pentagrams, and other symbols associated with paganism and the occult. These cards may be used to celebrate pagan holidays like Samhain, Yule, or Beltane, or simply to send a message of support or encouragement to someone who shares these beliefs.

There are also greeting cards that incorporate spells or other forms of magic. These cards may include instructions for performing a particular spell or ritual, or they may simply contain words or symbols that have magickal power. Or cards depicting a zodiac sign can be used to give to a friend of that star sign or use a card with an astrology sign with the strengths you wish to draw from.

7 Uses of Greeting Cards in Witchcraft

1. Spellcasting: Occult and witchcraft practitioners use greeting cards as a physical representation of their intentions and wishes. They write spells or affirmations on the cards or use them to create a sigil, which is a symbol that represents a specific intention.
2. Divination: Some practitioners use greeting cards as a tool for divination, similar to how tarot cards are used. They might use the imagery and messages on the cards as a basis for interpreting the messages they receive. Greeting cards with astrology on them are useful in divination.
3. Altar decoration: Occult and witchcraft practitioners use greeting cards to decorate their altar spaces. They might choose cards with specific themes or images that resonate with their practice and place them on their altars as a form of spiritual expression.
4. Correspondence: Greeting cards might also be used in correspondence with other practitioners. For example, they might send a card to a fellow practitioner as a way of showing appreciation or gratitude.
5. Spirit Communication: Practitioners might use a card as a form of communication with a specific deity or spirit by writing to them, then placing it on an altar or burning it as an offering.
6. Rituals: Greeting cards might be used as part of a ritual or ceremony. For example, a practitioner might use a card to represent a specific element or energy in a ritual, or they might use it as a physical representation of a deity or spirit they are working with.
7. Veneration of the Dead: Greeting cards might be used by a practitioner to communicate with their ancestors or to the passed person or familiar by writing in the card to them to request advice or to honour them.

Greeting Cards, Pagans & The Occult

One of the ways that Pagans connect with their beliefs and celebrate important occasions is using greeting cards. These cards often feature images of the natural world, such as trees, flowers, and animals, and they may also include symbols of the Pagan faith, such as pentagrams, pentacles or Celtic knotwork.

There are greeting cards that feature images of witches and other symbols associated with paganism and the occult. These cards may be used to celebrate the solstices, cross quarter days and pagan holidays such as Samhain, Yule, or Beltane, or simply to send a message of support or encouragement to someone who shares these beliefs.

Greeting cards can be given for:

• Valentine’s Day
• Happy Birthday
• Christmas 
• Get well soon 
• Wedding
• Engagement or Betrothal 

As well as pagan celebrations such as:

• Handfasting 
• Yule (Winter Solstice)
• Beltane (Spring Equinox) 
• Imbolc (Candlemass) 
• Samhain (Halloween) 
• Ostara (Easter) 
• Litha (Summer Solstice) 
• Lughnasadh (Lammas) 
• Mabon (Autumn Equinox). 

Greeting Cards in Culture

• In Japan, it is customary to send New Year's greeting cards, known as "nengajo," to friends, family, and business associates. These cards typically feature the zodiac animal of the upcoming year.
• In Mexico, "felicitations," which are congratulatory cards that are often sent for religious celebrations such as Christmas, Easter, and Day of the Dead.
• In India, greeting cards are often brightly coloured and adorned with intricate designs. They are commonly exchanged during festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Eid.

The Future of Greeting Cards

The popularity of greeting cards is a testament to the human desire for connection and communication. The tradition of sending greetings and well wishes has evolved over time, but it remains an important means of sharing love, hope, and faith.

Overall, the use of greeting cards in witchcraft, paganism, and the occult is a way to connect with others who share these beliefs, and to express support, encouragement, or gratitude in a way that is meaningful and personal. While it may not be a mainstream practice, it is a growing trend within the spiritual community, and it reflects the diversity and richness of human spirituality and culture.

In today's digital age, where communication is instant and global, the tradition of sending greeting cards is still going strong. Physical greeting cards continue to hold a special place in people's hearts. The tactile nature of a physical card, the personalised message, and the sentiment behind it are still highly valued.