Banish

Banish

Definition

To banish, in esoteric and occult practices, means to clear or dispel unwanted energies, influences, or entities from a space, object, or individual. It is an intentional act of purification and protection, often performed through ritual, visualization, or incantation.

The practice of banishing is rooted in ancient traditions, including ceremonial magick, shamanism, and folk practices. In ceremonial magick, banishing rituals were formalized in systems like the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, where they served to create a sacred space and prepare for ritual work. In folk magick, banishing often involved herbs, symbols, or spoken charms to remove negativity or harmful spirits.

Across cultures, banishing has been used not only for spiritual cleansing but also for psychological and emotional purification, helping practitioners release unwanted thoughts, habits, or attachments.

Banishing is considered a fundamental skill in magickal practice, ensuring that the practitioner works within a purified and protected environment. It serves to:

Clear residual energies from previous rituals or interactions.

Protect against psychic interference or external influences.

Center and focus the practitioner’s energy for spiritual work.

In the context of the Qliphoth or shadow work, banishing can help manage the intense and chaotic energies encountered during such explorations, ensuring the practitioner remains grounded and in control.

Banishing can be incorporated into daily or ritual practice for maintaining energetic hygiene and spiritual balance.

For example, the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (LBRP) is a widely used ceremonial banishing ritual. It involves invoking divine names and tracing pentagrams in the air to clear and sanctify the space.

On a personal level, banishing can also involve simple techniques like:

Smudging with sage, palo santo, or other sacred herbs.

Visualizing a sphere of light expanding outward, pushing away negativity.

Chanting or affirming phrases such as, “I release all that no longer serves me.”

Banishing is also a psychological tool for releasing limiting beliefs, fears, or attachments. By integrating intention and visualization, practitioners can banish internal obstacles that hinder personal growth and alignment with their True Will.

Connection to Other Terms

• Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram (LBRP): A formalized ceremonial ritual for banishing.

• Shadow Work: Banishing can help balance and integrate shadow aspects after their acknowledgment.

• Sacred Space: Banishing is often the first step in creating a sacred space for ritual work.

• Qliphoth: In working with shadow energies or the Nightside, banishing helps maintain boundaries and control.

• Astral Projection: Banishing is recommended before astral travel to ensure a clear and protected energetic environment.

Banishing embodies the alchemical principle of purification, the first step in transformation. It allows practitioners to create a blank slate, free of interference, for spiritual growth and magickal work. Regular banishing practices cultivate clarity, focus, and resilience, helping individuals align with their higher purpose and maintain energetic sovereignty.

Learn advanced banishing techniques and incorporate them into your spiritual practice by joining The Archaic Occultist or check out The Sacred Text Library. We offer resources, teachings, and practices that can help you elevate your consciousness, align with your True Will, and navigate the path to spiritual enlightenment.