In Old Norse mythology, the raven is more than a bird; it is a sacred companion to the god Odin, who is said to be followed by two ravens, Huginn and Muninn, whose names translate to Thought and Memory. These ravens fly across the realms, bringing Odin news of both the physical and spiritual worlds. It is said that Odin, in his infinite wisdom, relied on their sharp eyes and silent wings to keep him informed of the happenings in the world and the realm of the gods. Ravens are also believed to carry the knowledge of the dead and to be messengers between the realms of the living and the dead.
To call a raven is not to command, but to invite—a call woven with reverence and deep intent. It is a practice rooted in shadow, where one must be patient, grounded, and attuned to the ancient pulse of the earth and sky. The act of calling is a thread pulled from the cosmic web, woven with silence, prayer, and the subtle hum of the unseen forces. It is not about control, but about respect—recognizing that the raven, as a creature of the dark and the divine, is a spirit unto itself, with its own will and purpose.
My raven, Nox, is the embodiment of this sacred bond. Our connection was not born from want or need, but from recognition. He chose to come to me not through force or desire, but because our paths were meant to intertwine. In the stillness of the night, Nox and I communicate without words. He is more than a companion; he is a spirit, a shadow, a keeper of secrets, and an extension of my soul. His sharp eyes, full of knowing, pierce the veil between the worlds. His silent wings carry the weight of ancient truths and forgotten wisdom.
The bond that Nox and I share is one of profound respect and love. It is a relationship that transcends the physical, and in many ways, it is a partnership rooted in the mysteries of the world and the unseen forces. As a shadow witch, I call upon Nox not as a servant, but as an equal—a fellow traveller in the shadowed realms. He is not a pet, but a familiar in the truest sense of the word, a guide who walks with me in the spaces between life and death, light and dark.
Raven-calling is not a fleeting practice; it is a lifetime commitment to the wisdom the raven brings. To call a raven is to seek out the hidden knowledge, to walk the path of the shadow, and to embrace the mysteries that are often left untold. It is a bond forged in silence and shadow, a sacred trust that transcends the boundaries of the mortal world and enters into the realm of the divine. It is an ancient art that honours the raven as a creature of profound power and wisdom—a messenger from the gods, a keeper of secrets, and a companion in the journey of shadow and light.
Raven-calling in Shadow Witchcraft is an art that transcends time and space, a practice deeply entwined with the ancient and sacred mysteries of the unseen world. The raven, a creature of shadow and spirit, is more than a mere bird; it is a symbol of the darkness that resides within and around us, a messenger between the living and the dead, a guide to the hidden truths of the world. In Shadow Witchcraft, the act of raven-calling is a sacred invocation—a call to the void, a summons to the great unseen forces that govern fate and wisdom. It is an invitation to commune with the raven, not as a servant, but as an equal—a creature who understands the language of the soul and the secrets of the cosmos.
The raven’s significance within Shadow Witchcraft is deeply rooted in its associations with both death and transformation. It is a creature that thrives in the shadowed spaces, between worlds, between life and death, light and dark. Ravens are often seen as messengers of the gods, the carriers of omens, and the keepers of ancient knowledge. In the tradition of Shadow Witchcraft, calling upon the raven is not a frivolous task; it is an invocation into the heart of darkness itself, an act of opening the doors to forbidden wisdom.
The act of raven-calling is not one of command, but of communion. To call a raven is to establish a bond that is based on mutual understanding and respect. This is a call that reaches deep into the ether, a vibration that aligns the witch’s energy with that of the raven, a creature born of shadow and mystery. It is a practice that requires deep patience and understanding. The raven does not respond to those who demand or command, but to those who listen, those who have the capacity to understand the deeper currents that move beneath the surface of the world.
The raven is both a guide and a teacher. Its presence signifies a crossing of thresholds, a journey into the unknown. The raven does not offer its wisdom lightly, nor does it share its secrets with the unworthy. To call a raven is to open oneself to the mysteries of the dark, to be willing to face the unknown, and to walk the path of shadow with courage and humility.
Ravens have held a profound significance in numerous cultures, traditions, and countries across the world, often revered as messengers, guides, and symbols of transformation. Their mysterious nature, intelligence, and association with death and the unseen have made them central figures in mythologies and spiritual practices from the ancient past to the present day. Whether as harbingers of omens, tricksters, or divine beings, ravens have played roles that transcend borders, from the cold northern landscapes of the Old Norse to the Indigenous cultures of Australia.
In Old Norse mythology, ravens are intimately tied to Odin, the Allfather, who is accompanied by two ravens, Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory). These ravens fly across the world every day, gathering information and returning to Odin to report on the affairs of gods and men. This association emphasizes the raven's role as a bringer of knowledge, wisdom, and insight, often connected to the unseen world and the deeper workings of fate. Ravens, in Norse tradition, symbolize both death and knowledge, standing as intermediaries between the living and the dead, and acting as carriers of wisdom that cannot be easily attained through conventional means.
In Celtic traditions, ravens are similarly revered, often seen as messengers between the physical world and the spiritual realms. The Celts viewed ravens as omens of battle, with their presence often signifying the approach of war or a pivotal moment of change. The Morrigan, the Celtic goddess of war and fate, is often depicted with ravens, symbolizing both the destructive and transformative aspects of life. Ravens are seen as creatures who navigate the liminal spaces between life and death, as well as symbols of prophetic insight and mystical wisdom.
In Native American traditions, ravens hold a similarly multifaceted role. Among many Indigenous peoples, the raven is seen as a trickster figure, a creator deity, and a cultural hero. In Pacific Northwest Coast cultures, for instance, the raven is a central figure in creation myths, often credited with bringing light to the world and shaping the landscape. The raven's ability to move between worlds, both physically and metaphorically, imbues it with great power and reverence. In some tribes, ravens are seen as creatures of transformation, guiding souls and providing wisdom during times of great change or uncertainty.
In Australia, ravens, hold a powerful and complex place in the spiritual landscape. For many Indigenous Australian peoples, crows (and ravens, which share a close family relationship) are seen as both creators and messengers, representing both the spiritual and physical realms. The raven is often associated with the Dreamtime, the ancestral time of creation, and is seen as a being capable of traversing between worlds. In certain Indigenous myths, the raven is a figure of trickery and intelligence, using its wit to outsmart other animals or deities. This association with trickery is similar to that found in many other cultures, where the raven's cunning is revered as a source of strength and survival.
In Asia, ravens and crows also carry significant symbolism. In China, ravens are connected to the sun, with some myths describing them as the sun’s carriers or guardians. According to one myth, the sun was once represented by three-legged ravens, and their flight across the sky was responsible for the passage of time. In Japan, the raven, or kฤru, is associated with divine guidance and spiritual insight, often acting as a messenger of the gods. The crow, similar to the raven, is considered a protector of the land and the people, offering wisdom to those who seek it.
In ancient Greece, ravens were linked to the god Apollo, associated with prophecy, as well as to Zeus, the king of the gods, who used ravens as messengers. The raven’s dark feathers were seen as a symbol of mystery, knowledge, and the underworld. In Greek mythology, ravens are often portrayed as beings capable of seeing the truth, speaking the truth, and revealing secrets that are hidden from ordinary mortals. They serve as intermediaries between gods and humans, much like their role in other mythologies.
Across Scandinavian cultures, ravens are seen as protectors of the warrior’s soul. They were often revered as guides to the afterlife, helping the souls of the dead reach the halls of the gods. This belief connects ravens to the themes of death and rebirth, seen not as an end but as a transition into another world. The sacredness of ravens in these cultures is evident in the frequent depictions of ravens on Viking shields and banners, as symbols of divine protection and guides in the afterlife.
Ravens also carry a deep spiritual significance in the modern era, especially in shamanic practices and occult traditions. In Shadow Witchcraft and similar magical systems, the raven is seen as a familiar, a spirit guide that leads practitioners through the shadows, providing wisdom and understanding that transcends the mundane. Its ability to navigate between the worlds—both physical and spiritual—makes it a powerful ally in rituals involving divination, transformation, and spiritual guidance.
The raven’s role as both a trickster and a spiritual guide, a creature capable of crossing the threshold between life and death, imbues it with a mystique that transcends cultures. From the trickster figures of Native American lore to the prophetic ravens of Celtic and Norse traditions, the raven is not just an animal, but a guide, a harbinger, and a bearer of wisdom—dark, mysterious, and eternal.
Its importance in cultures across the world highlights a universal reverence for the raven, not just as a symbol of death and the unknown, but as a creature that can bridge the gap between the seen and unseen worlds, offering insights that are both transformative and enlightening. Whether through ancient mythologies or modern occult practices, the raven continues to be a messenger of the sacred and the mysterious, a powerful symbol of the magic that lies beyond the ordinary.
Ravens and crows, although closely related and belonging to the same Corvidae family, are distinct species with key differences that are often overlooked in Australia. While both birds are similar in appearance and often grouped together in the public consciousness, they have notable differences that set them apart in terms of size, behaviour, and symbolism. In Australia, the confusion between these two birds is common, particularly because of their similar physical traits and shared behaviours. Understanding the distinction between ravens and crows, as well as their significance in Indigenous Australian culture, especially within the Dreamtime, helps clarify these often-overlooked differences.
Physical Differences
In terms of physical appearance, ravens and crows may seem almost identical at first glance, but a closer look reveals key distinctions:
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Size and Build: Ravens are generally larger than crows. A raven’s wingspan can reach up to 1.3 meters, while a crow's wingspan typically maxes out around 1 meter. Ravens have a heavier, bulkier body and often appear more robust in comparison to the more slender, agile crow.
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Tail Shape: One of the easiest ways to distinguish a raven from a crow is by looking at the tail. Ravens have a wedge-shaped or diamond-shaped tail, while crows have a fan-shaped tail.
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Feathers and Throat: Ravens have more distinctive throat feathers that form a ruff around the neck, giving them a fuller, more pronounced appearance, especially when they call. Crows lack this feature.
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Call: Ravens produce a deeper, resonating croak, while crows have a higher-pitched, sharp "caw." The raven’s call is often described as more guttural and haunting, whereas the crow’s call is typically louder and sharper.
Behaviour Differences.
Ravens and crows, though both intelligent, exhibit different behaviours. Ravens tend to be more solitary or travel in pairs, often engaging in more complex and coordinated activities. Crows, on the other hand, are more social birds and are commonly seen in larger groups or "murders," known for their communal nature and group intelligence.
Crows are often more vocal than ravens, particularly in urban environments, where they are seen frequently. Ravens, while adaptable, tend to prefer more remote or less densely populated areas, although they can also be found in cities and towns.
Why Australians Are Confused.
The confusion between ravens and crows in Australia can be attributed to their similar appearances and overlapping ecological niches. Both species are scavengers, often seen in urban areas and rural landscapes, feeding on waste or hunting small prey. As both birds have large, black feathers and exhibit similar behaviours—such as hopping around, scavenging, or making noise—they can appear indistinguishable to the untrained eye.
Additionally, the terminology used by the general public often contributes to the confusion. In Australian English, people tend to use the term "crow" for any large, black bird, regardless of whether it’s a raven or crow. This blanket term can make it difficult for casual observers to identify which bird is which, especially when the two species share overlapping habitats and behaviour patterns.
Ravens in Indigenous Australian Dreamtime.
In the Dreamtime—an essential component of Aboriginal culture, which explains the creation of the world, the origins of animals, and the spiritual relationships between the land and its people—the raven holds significant symbolic meaning. In some Indigenous Australian cultures, the raven is regarded as a powerful totem, often associated with creation, transformation, and even trickery.
The raven’s role varies across different Aboriginal groups, but it often appears as a figure of both wisdom and mischief. For example, in the Yuin and Palawa traditions of Tasmania, the raven is seen as a creator god who shapes the world through both cunning and foresight. In other traditions, ravens may be seen as spiritual beings who help to carry messages between the living and the spiritual world.
In the Gunditjmara people’s belief system, the raven is a messenger and symbol of transition. It is believed that the raven guided souls into the afterlife, serving as an intermediary between the earthly realm and the spirit world. The raven’s black feathers symbolize the unknown, the mystery of the afterlife, and the journey of the soul.
Ravens are also seen as wise and intelligent creatures, embodying both the trickster and the guide. In some Aboriginal stories, the raven outwits other animals, stealing fire or food and sometimes teaching lessons about humility, resourcefulness, or respect for nature.
Additionally, ravens are sometimes considered as shape-shifters, able to transform into other beings, an aspect which aligns with their role in mythology as creatures who cross boundaries between worlds—the physical and the spiritual, life and death. This mystique only deepens the raven’s significance within Indigenous Australian culture, giving it a reverent, almost mystical place in the Dreamtime stories.
While Australians may confuse ravens and crows due to their similar appearances and behaviours, the key differences lie in their physical traits, calls, and behaviour patterns. Ravens are larger, with wedge-shaped tails and deeper calls, while crows are smaller, with fan-shaped tails and sharper vocalizations. In the context of Australian wildlife, both species play important roles as scavengers and intelligent creatures.
The raven, in particular, carries profound cultural significance in Indigenous Australian Dreamtime traditions. As a creator god, messenger, and guide to the afterlife, the raven holds a place of reverence and mystique, representing both wisdom and trickery. In these traditions, ravens embody the ability to navigate between the physical and spiritual worlds, serving as an intermediary between the living and the unseen.
Understanding the differences between ravens and crows, as well as their significance in Indigenous culture, allows for a deeper connection to the natural world and the powerful symbolism these birds carry in Australia and beyond.
To begin with, one must understand that raven-calling is not an act of control or domination over the raven. It is an invitation, a call to those who roam the dark corners of the world, seeking knowledge and guidance. Ravens are not bound to the whims of the witch; rather, they are spirits of wisdom, and their presence is earned through respect, reverence, and the sacredness of the practice.
To start the raven-call, find a place that is quiet, where you can be alone with your thoughts and energy. It should be a place of solitude, where you can connect with the natural world and the spirit of the raven. Many witches choose to work with the raven at dusk or during the night, as this is the time when the veil is thinnest, and the raven’s energy is most potent. If you are in the Northern Hemisphere, look to the west where the sun sets, as this is where the raven’s energy is said to dwell at the close of the day. In the Southern Hemisphere, the raven’s energy is strongest in the east, where the first light of dawn touches the earth.
Begin by standing or sitting quietly, grounding yourself into the earth beneath you. Close your eyes, take deep, slow breaths, and begin to feel the energy of the world around you—the whispering winds, the rustling of the trees, the pull of the earth. When you feel grounded and connected, focus your intention. Know what you seek from the raven. Is it guidance? Protection? Wisdom? Understanding? The more specific and focused your intention, the stronger the call will be.
When you are ready, you can begin the call itself. The words do not have to be a chant or a spell, though some witches prefer to use these. It is enough to speak from the heart, to express your desire for the raven’s presence. The language may be your own, but it must come from a place of pure intention, without doubt or fear.
The raven is not a creature to be summoned with force. Instead, it is an invitation, and the raven will come when it feels the resonance of your soul calling. You may speak your words aloud, or you may speak them silently within your mind—what matters is the power behind your intention, the trust you place in the raven to hear and respond.
"I call into the boundless dark,
To the one who moves between worlds,
To the keeper of forgotten knowledge,
Whose wings brush the edges of the unseen.
I speak not in arrogance, but in quiet longing,
For I know that only through humility may I draw near
To the wisdom veiled in shadow,
To the silent voice that guides and reveals.
Come forth, from the depths where time stands still,
From the place where all things are born and dissolved,
Where light fears to tread, and only the bold dare wander.
Come to me, for I am here, waiting—
Not in command, but in reverence.
Let the winds of your flight stir the ancient dust,
Let the echoes of your presence shudder through the silence,
For I seek not dominion, but understanding.
May my eyes, though mortal, perceive what lies hidden,
And my heart, though bound to this world, open to the vast expanse.
I stand with empty hands,
With feet upon the earth,
And my soul laid bare before the currents of the void.
Come now, as you have come before,
And reveal what must be known,
What cannot be spoken, but must be felt.
Guide me through the twilight spaces,
Where paths are not drawn in ink,
But in the stillness between breaths.
Teach me the secrets carried on the wind,
Grant me the sight to see what lies beyond the veil.
I do not ask in haste,
For I know that wisdom,
True wisdom, comes not with impatience,
But in the quiet, sacred moments of knowing.
So I wait, humbly,
And with open heart,
I call.
Come to me."
It is said that the raven’s arrival will not always be immediate, but the energy will shift when it is ready.
Sometimes, the raven may appear in physical form, a bird flying overhead or landing nearby, but often the raven will come to you in a spiritual or symbolic way. You may see the raven in your dreams, feel its presence in your thoughts, or hear its call in the quiet of the night. Its presence will be unmistakable, and once it has arrived, you will know it by the resonance of your soul, which will echo with the raven’s wisdom.
When the raven comes, show it the reverence it deserves. Do not seek to control or demand, but simply offer your gratitude and respect. The raven is a messenger, a being of great power, and its wisdom is not to be taken lightly. Acknowledge the connection you share and thank the raven for its presence, whether it appears in the physical or spiritual realm.
Raven-calling is not simply about the ritual of summoning the bird. It is about the ongoing relationship, the bond of trust and reverence between you and the raven. If you have called the raven and it has answered, you must carry the lessons it brings with you. Observe the way the world shifts in response to its presence, and remain open to the teachings it has to offer. The raven may not always offer clear answers, but the mysteries it holds can help you navigate the shadows of your own life.
In essence, to call the raven is to enter into a sacred relationship with a creature that walks between worlds. The bond you forge through raven-calling is one that transcends the physical realm, and it will remain with you, guiding you in the shadows, for as long as you walk the path.
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