Algol is the most notorious fixed star our sky has to offer, yet it can also bestow unparalleled protection and avenge those who have been victimized by unjust deeds. It was known as the ‘blinking eye’ of the demon due to being a binary star that eclipsed itself every three days, vanishing for what seemed like no reason. The ancients, deeply suspicious of this behavior, took to calling the star ‘Lilith’, after the Garden’s original She Demon. Algol’s full-waxing-visible vs. dark-waning-invisible cycle, in addition to its natural pattern of triplicity, are further manifestations of the star’s allegiance to the mysteries of primordial womanhood, no doubt providing the basis for the Lilith association.

Situated in the constellation of Perseus, Algol is also associated with the gorgon Medusa, and is seen as the head or gaze that curses and turns to stone. There is much to be said about this mythos and Algol’s relationship to Perseus and Athena, but the last time we attempted to posit at greater length it disappeared. Such is a lived example of how Algol works and a direct manifestation of its eclipse-like nature. As is this.

The New Moon in Taurus 2018 happened on Algol, making for an incredibly potent election to harness this powerful fixed star. As fate would have it, the election placed Algol on the degree of the rising angle during the finale of the working, when the most important aspects of the various offerings of the series came together — candles poured, eye talismans sigilized, and ingredients for oil combined.

This series, of anything Sphere + Sundry is ever likely to produce, has by far the most malefic potential. The utmost care and respect should be shown for these creations, which pack a powerful charge that will draw the direct gaze of Algol upon whoever contacts them. Algol is associated with beheadings, accidents, and blindness and frequently causes nausea. This force, however, can also be channeled for good, providing protection for the self, loved ones, and possessions from the evil eye and evil deeds, or as an agent of justice to avenge wrongdoing. It is the creator’s humble opinion that Algol in its waning phase, or when captured by the New Moon (as this series is), is better for acts of offense and pursuit, while waxing or Full Moon elections are more protective and insulating.

It is highly recommended that if you are to work with Algol, you also have some form of Dark Goddess practice, preferably in place before you begin engagement with these (or your own) creations. This fixed star is in Taurus, a Venus ruled sign, and has long been associated with destructive wrath and great loss. For one to successfully process Algol without excessive side effects, one must meet her gaze with deep humility, heart in hand, and genuine respect for the destructive power inherent to this primordial force. There is nothing a nigredo based life-form hates more than bloviating ego and hubris, and Algol will begin dismantling and demolishing those traits utterly and completely should they happen to catch her eye. These can involve extremely negative manifestations in the life and in the body. Men should be especially careful in how they approach Algol.

Appropriate intermediary beings to work with include Lilith herself, Hekate, Black Tara, Chinnamasta, and Kali, among many others. Making offerings or saying mantras to these beings and praying to them as an adjunct to Algol workings is always a good idea. Beings of this class can help channel Algol’s power and provide a guiding, even protective lens through which to filter its influence. Simply put, rapport can be established with Gods, and they can be directly petitioned and appealed to. Star-fire, on the other hand, cares not for you, nor your life, nor your feelings — it simply beams in fixed and predictable accord with its own nature and effects whatever crosses its laser-like path, as the name ‘fixed star’ suggests.

Let it also be said that mediating Algol through a dark Goddess will not necessarily protect you. These beings have similar priorities and ways of viewing the world, as you would expect from Lilith’s association with the star, and will be the first to initiate abortion protocols should they find the need. Much good can come from such processes, but you must be prepared for them and come in ‘eyes’ open.

Due to Algol’s malefic potential and sheer power, a divination will take place for every order placed in this series. If the results of divination are ill-omened, the order cannot be ethically shipped and will instead be refunded. If the results are neutral or positive, the order will ship as usual. Great care and consideration should be taken before you decide to place an order for this series, as just that act will invite Algol to take a peak into your sphere.