Circumambulation


Circumambulation

(religion, spiritualism, and occult)

To circumambulate is to move clockwise around a ritual circle. Normally the casting of the circle (see Circle) is always done deosil, first with the sword or athamé,

then with salted water and finally with the censer. In many Wiccan traditions, the coven members may only move clockwise (deosil), never counterclockwise (widdershins). In other covens, there is freedom of movement in both directions.

Circumambulation is also known as the "holy round" and the "sunwise turn" and is not exclusive to Witchcraft. Such movement is recognized by various groups as magical, bringing good luck, protection, and protracted life.