Magic and nature is all about balance. We need the light as much as we need the dark. However do not be confused if something is referred to as dark, this does not mean ‘evil’ or ‘bad’. When doing shadow work or working with a Dark Goddess, this can be a healing from trauma, facing those aspects of ourselves that are not helpful, or simply reclaiming our balance.
In Part I of the book, it covers The Dark Goddess. The Goddess is typically viewed in her triple aspect of Maiden, Mother and Crone. The aspect that is associated most as the Dark Goddess is the Crone. She has the most wisdom. There are other Goddesses that also represent the Dark Goddess who are closer to the maiden aspect such as Lilith, Circe, and Persephone. The author also tells the middle aspect, the Mother who can also represent the Dark Goddess. These Goddesses are the scary side that give ‘tough love’ as the author puts it. These Goddesses are ones such as Kali, Oya, and Scathach. Their job is to help the reader from hiding and face the truths within ourselves.
While the Dark Goddess is often misunderstood, author Frances Billinghurst delves deep into this world to help the reader have a better understanding on how to work with her and restore balance within. The author goes into how the reader can begin with their shadow work. When transformation is needed, the Dark Goddess appears to assist with making changes for outdated habits, behaviors, relationships, emotions etc. Things that are holding the reader back and does not help promote their highest and best good for the soul is the focus. For myself personally, I worked with the Dark Goddess to help me get through grief. I had not sought her out, but rather Hekate found me and helped me work though some of the issues that had been holding me hostage by past grief.
In Part II of the book, the author covers Meeting the Dark Goddess. This section covers 13 Goddesses that the reader can work further with. The Goddess list includes: Tiamat, Sekhmet, Lilith, Medusa, Morgan le Fay, Kali, Oya, Hekate, Persephone, Nephthys, Ereshkigal, Hel, & Baba Yaga. You can read a bit about each Goddess as well as a simple way to reach out and work with each one.
Part III of the book covers working with the Goddesses. It covers ideas, altars, activities and more with connecting with each you will work with.
I recommend this guide for anyone who is seeking to balance themselves and work with the energies we refer to as The Dark Goddess.
~review by Amber Barnes
Author: Frances Billinghurst
Moon Books, 2021
pp. 248, $19.95
