Product Description
Old Style Conjure: Hoodoo, Rootwork, & Folk Magic by Starr Casas is a rich and heartfelt exploration of traditional Southern conjure practices, capturing the essence of Hoodoo, rootwork, and folk magic as they have been passed down through generations. Starr Casas, a highly respected conjure woman with decades of experience, brings to life the traditions and wisdom of her Southern heritage, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the spiritual practices and beliefs that form the foundation of conjure. This 256-page softcover book serves as both a practical manual and a spiritual companion, teaching readers how to incorporate old-style conjure into their lives for healing, protection, empowerment, and connection to their ancestors.
The book begins by introducing readers to the roots of Hoodoo and conjure, tracing their origins to the blending of African, Native American, and European influences in the Southern United States. Casas emphasizes that conjure is not a religion but a way of life, deeply embedded in the culture and spirituality of the South. Her approach is grounded in respect for the ancestors and the spirits, honoring the lineage of those who practiced conjure before her. Throughout the book, Casas’s voice is warm and down-to-earth, making the reader feel as though they are sitting at the kitchen table, learning from a wise elder. Her writing style is both accessible and authoritative, filled with personal stories that lend authenticity to her teachings and invite readers to engage with the material on a personal level.
One of the central themes of Old Style Conjure is the importance of honoring and connecting with one’s ancestors. Casas explains that in the practice of conjure, the ancestors are a source of wisdom, protection, and guidance. She offers practical advice on how to set up an ancestor altar, make offerings, and establish a relationship with the spirits of one’s lineage. This relationship with the ancestors is foundational to conjure work, as it creates a link to the past and provides spiritual support for the practitioner. Casas’s teachings on ancestor veneration are detailed and respectful, highlighting the role of family, heritage, and tradition in conjure practice.
The book also provides an extensive look at the tools and ingredients commonly used in Hoodoo and conjure, such as roots, herbs, oils, candles, and spiritual baths. Casas explains the properties of each item and offers recipes for creating powerful conjure products, from fiery protection oils to cleansing floor washes. Her instructions are straightforward and practical, allowing readers to create these items with materials that are often easily found in one’s kitchen or garden. For instance, she describes how to use salt, vinegar, and other household items in protection work, emphasizing that conjure is a practice rooted in simplicity and resourcefulness. Casas’s approach demystifies conjure, making it accessible to anyone who wishes to incorporate its principles into their lives.
Casas dedicates significant attention to the role of prayers, psalms, and spoken words in conjure work. She explains that words carry power and that prayers, when spoken with intent and faith, can bring about profound changes. Throughout the book, she shares traditional prayers and psalms that have been used in conjure for centuries, explaining their significance and how to use them in various contexts, such as protection, healing, and prosperity. Casas’s approach to prayer is deeply spiritual, encouraging readers to speak from the heart and to trust in the power of their words. This focus on the spoken word adds a sacred dimension to the book, reminding readers that conjure is not just about rituals and ingredients but also about intention, faith, and connection to the divine.
In Old Style Conjure, readers will also find a variety of spells and rituals for different purposes, including love, money, protection, and justice. Casas provides step-by-step instructions for each spell, often accompanied by personal anecdotes that illustrate the spell’s effectiveness. Her rituals are straightforward, using simple ingredients like candles, coins, and jars, which makes them accessible to practitioners of all levels. For example, she offers a “sweetening jar” spell to bring love and harmony into relationships and a “fiery wall of protection” spell to shield oneself from harm. Casas emphasizes that conjure is not about wishful thinking but about taking practical steps to achieve one’s goals, often combining spiritual work with real-world action.
Another unique aspect of Old Style Conjure is Casas’s emphasis on ethics and responsibility in conjure practice. She stresses the importance of using conjure to uplift and protect, rather than harm, and encourages practitioners to consider the consequences of their actions. Casas believes that conjure should be used to set things right, not to manipulate or control others. This ethical framework is woven throughout the book, reminding readers that the true power of conjure lies in its alignment with justice, integrity, and respect for others. Casas’s guidance on ethical conjure is both thoughtful and practical, providing a moral foundation for readers who may be new to this type of work.
Casas’s personal connection to her conjure practice shines through in every chapter. She shares stories from her life and the lives of her ancestors, illustrating how conjure has been a source of strength, resilience, and comfort in difficult times. These stories bring a human element to the book, making it more than just a collection of spells and recipes. Casas’s love for her family and her heritage is palpable, and her respect for the spirits is evident in every word. Her storytelling is warm and engaging, drawing readers into the world of Southern conjure and allowing them to see its beauty and power.
The book also includes practical advice for living a life of conjure. Casas explains that conjure is not just something one does; it is a way of being. She offers guidance on how to maintain a spiritual home, protect one’s family, and live in harmony with the natural world. This holistic approach to conjure makes Old Style Conjure a valuable resource not only for spell work but for daily living. Casas’s teachings encourage readers to be mindful, to honor their roots, and to walk through life with a sense of purpose and respect for the unseen forces around them.
In conclusion, Old Style Conjure: Hoodoo, Rootwork, & Folk Magic by Starr Casas is an essential guide for anyone interested in the practices and traditions of Southern conjure. It is a book filled with wisdom, love, and respect for the ancestors and the spirits, offering readers a glimpse into a world that is both practical and deeply spiritual. Casas’s teachings are accessible yet profound, making this book suitable for beginners and experienced practitioners alike. Whether readers are looking to protect their home, heal their loved ones, or connect with their ancestors, Old Style Conjure provides the tools and knowledge to bring the power of conjure into their lives. It is a work of love and devotion, a testament to the enduring strength of Southern folk magic, and a reminder that the old ways are still alive and thriving.
