Yesterday I burned Copal. The cards that I drew at the altar talked of the passing of the old ways of being. I have been conscious of the need for the continuing cutting of the cords of energy that bind me to outmoded behaviors, old associations which are no longer nurturing me, even the emotions of love and connection to a place that I no longer live need adjusting. Memory is the appropriate place for these energies to abide. I have new pathways to walk and I must walk them unburdened.
Copal Bursera fagaroides), a resin from Central and South America is extremely smoky and has tremendous powers to drive out unwanted energies. Copal comes in gold and black versions. It is used in healing blends and is often combined with Marigold (not Calendula) for this purpose. Copal will clear extreme negativity from dwellings and is useful in exorcisms. It is associated with the Sun and could be used to call on Divine Beings from Central and South America . Copal was burned at the top of Aztec, Incan and Mayan pyramids to honor the Sun. Copal is associated with the Sun, the element of Fire, Aries, Leo, Sagittarius, Love, and Purification.
I have a great fondness for Copal and have used it in ritual many times. It does produce a lot of heavy smoke, so use care when burning it. If you are using it for clearing a space, set a burner in a very safe place, let your intentions be known, and leave the room or building sealed while you leave for a few hours. When you come back, open all the windows and doors. Under most circumstances, a smudging with White Sage or Cedar will suffice. Use Copal for heavy duty clearing.
Today at my altar the cards were about beginnings, and using and directing energy to help manifest positive goals. May it be so.
