42085415-Liber-Jahira-v2

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira

BETA EDITION v1.0

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Copyr Copyrigh ightt © 1997-200 1997-2005 5 Rakash Rakasha a Boo Books ks & the the Sy Syn nod, od, all all right ightss reser reserved ved.. All arti article cless © of their their res respect pectiv ivee autho uthorrs, use used with with permission.

No part of this book may be repr reprod oduc uced ed or tran transm smit itte ted d in any any form form,, or by any mean means, s, gra graphic phic,, electronic, or mechanical; including photocopying, recording, electronic, taping or by any other information storage or retrieval system, without the the perm permis issi sion on in writ writin ingg of the the publisher and authors. First Edition, Rakasha Books, Printed in the USA by LuLu.com Sanguinomicon: Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira ISBN#: 1-4116-6084-6 P.O. Box 1223, Cooper Square Station New York, NY 10276 USA, Web: http://www.vampyrealmanac.com

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Copyr Copyrigh ightt © 1997-200 1997-2005 5 Rakash Rakasha a Boo Books ks & the the Sy Syn nod, od, all all right ightss reser reserved ved.. All arti article cless © of their their res respect pectiv ivee autho uthorrs, use used with with permission.

No part of this book may be repr reprod oduc uced ed or tran transm smit itte ted d in any any form form,, or by any mean means, s, gra graphic phic,, electronic, or mechanical; including photocopying, recording, electronic, taping or by any other information storage or retrieval system, without the the perm permis issi sion on in writ writin ingg of the the publisher and authors. First Edition, Rakasha Books, Printed in the USA by LuLu.com Sanguinomicon: Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira ISBN#: 1-4116-6084-6 P.O. Box 1223, Cooper Square Station New York, NY 10276 USA, Web: http://www.vampyrealmanac.com

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This copy of the Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira was consecrated on _______________________ _______________________ (date) and is the property of

_________________________ _________________________ (nightside name).

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To the entirety of the Sanguinarium Family, awakened and unawakened whom have with we have traveled together on this great journey of Zhep’r!

So we now begin…

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WARNING & DISCLAIMER Liber Jahira & the books of the Sanguinomicon are written for the serious individual wishing to unlock their own hidden vampyric potential. The rituals and mysteries within these pages require the seeker to be of sound mind and health. If you suffer from mental disorders such as bi-polar disorder or physical ailments such as heart disease, epilepsy or chronic disease, please refrain from exploring the Strigoi Vii Mysteries. The authors, the Synod nor the publisher will accept responsibility for misuse of the material contained within, nor do they condone blood drinking, underage sexual behavior, illegal or criminal activities.

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INTRODUCTION From before the first conscious memories of mankind our Family has been there, manifesting in the illusions of the sensory reality through myth and legend. We are the succubus who fly the night’s sky and demand tribute from sleeping humans, the pharaohs of ancient Khem, the Magi who visited the infant Jezusha, inspiration behind masters such as Plato and kings like Alexander. Our ancients have crafted and guided the destiny of mankind since the days of Babylon through and creating the gods which humans pleasantly, yet sometimes violently follow. We are the Living Vampyres, children of the most ancient ones. This book is a key, a tool of initiation in which to unlock the mysteries of a hidden potential which may lie within your Blood. Like a mirror it should reflect what you already know and feel, being just a reminder. The choice of becoming, evolving and transforming yourself is yours and requires action and self application to obtain results. This book is not for the “vamp” scene which has manifested on the internet of board housewives, depressed individuals looking for acceptance from behind a computer screen, rebellious teenagers wishing for something more beautiful than LaVeyan Satanism or energy deficient psychic vampires seeking to moan about their “condition.” The Sanguinomicon is a tome dedicated to the responsible individual who worships life, is engaged and dedicated to spiritual and materialistic mastery of this mortal coil and willing to make the steps to achieve the Quest for Immortality. The title Sanguinomicon is indeed inspired by the fictional Grimoire of magick from American author H.P. Lovecraft's (1891-1937). Mixing Greek and Latin, the word sanguine in Latin means "blood", the word nom- comes from and means "law" in Greek, thus the proper translation would be the "Book of the Laws of the Blood." Originally the name Sanguinomicon came from Father Vincent of House Omega, former fangsmithing name of Father Sebastiaan, it was actually a comedic joke. Being Strigoi Vii and holding a good sense of humor together we named Liber Calmae in our original series the Sanguinomicon. People liked the name so much it caught on and was the most successful of all Synod published projects, so it just made sense to rebrand the entire series Sanguinomicon. This gives the whole project a mysterious feel and breaks the seriousness which is plaguing the vampyre community for the last few years. Elorath as the author is naturally an acronym for the writers of this text, who are many in both contributors to text and through inspiration. Collectively becoming Elorath, thus taking a unique approach never before done with a modern text. In Khem, better known to us this day as Ancient Egypt grimoires of magickal knowledge were always accredited to the god of wisdom and magick Thoth, the same is the case with the Sanguinomicon. The acolytes and priests of the Synod, who serve the Ancients known as the Strigoi Morte (disembodied vampyres who have ascended the flesh) and are the architects of the Current of Elorath will be collecting this lore and information, thus Elorath itself will be credited as the author. The same is true when legal documents are written by a law firm, this is to move focus onto the content and away from increasing the ego of the author.

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THE SANGUINARIUM & THE QUEST The Sanguinarium roughly translates from Latin to mean “the Guild of Blood” and is a term to describe what the Ancients call the Current of Elorath. This current is a mental and spiritual frequency which appeals to a rare selection of individuals on this planet who carry the essence of Elorath, a spiritual Family which has existed since the dawn of time. The Sanguinarium itself is the modern manifestation of this Family, it is the material manifestation of a great awakening and realization of what and who these people known as Strigoi Vii are. The Quest is this great awakening and to find and introduce to our brothers and sisters of the Blood our existence and the opportunity to embrace their potential. The second portion of the Quest is the process of individual metamorphosis and transformation to the level of an immortal known as Zhep’r. The Quest for the outer lay members of the Family is a simple one, while the complexity gains momentum for those who choose to enter our priesthood and take up the duties of leadership. The core group taking responsibility for the execution and motivation of this Quest is an international order of Strigoi Vii Magisters and their acolytes known as the Synod. They have taken up the duty of providing the tools and resources that set forth the foundation of the Sanguinarium itself. Initiation is a major aspect of the Quest for Immortality, each level of initiation requires the individual to solve a Mystery. These Mysteries are spiritual and philosophical equations which are used to bring teachings into the sphere of understanding and then to a point where they produce individual results. The Seeker is an individual who has just begun their awakening and is actively seeking out those of our number through a genuine curiosity of his or her Family. This is the first step of individual Zhep’r. These initiations can either be done as on a solitary level or through formal initiation in the Ordo Strigoi Vii, a correspondence order and outer court of the Synod. The Initiate (the Mystery of Jahira) has chosen to explore and test themselves through initial exploration of the elementary Strigoi Vii Mysteries. Their approach begins in the sensory reality through a pragmatic, materialistic and objective approach, thus building a foundation to explore the deeper mysteries. The Witch and Templar (the Mystery of Calmae) has validated the reality of the level of the subtle reality known as the Ether and validated the reality of the Art of Communion. They apply and practice Strigoi Vii mysteries as a core part of their life. The Adept (the Mystery of Kharrus) has come to mastery of completing the circuit of Communion and personally experienced and communed with the Strigoi Morte, our disembodied ascended ancestors who have defeated the Second Death. The Inner Mysteries are reserved for the initiated Magisters of the Synod, initiation is thus by invite and appointment only to qualified adepts. Throughout the balance of Equilibrium we find that we are often drawn to characteristics of the Egragores and aspects of Elorath as a source of power. Upon becoming the Second Mystery of Calmae many of us are drawn to focus on a road of the Egragores of the Triumvirate. Mradu is the noble warrior and guardian, Kitra is our councilor and weaver and Ramkht is our visionary visionary and priest. All Strigoi Vii Vii can work with the three Egragores, however most usually are more attuned to one over the others. Some unique individuals individual s are attuned to two or all three, while some do not have a patron or attunement to any. Within the Equilibrium there is the duality of the male and female aspects of 8

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira the Self, Kalistree and Mithu. Kalistree is the feminine Dragon Goddess and Mithu is the Dragon God, the body we wear often reveals the frequency in which we are attuned. Some of the qualities which aid in help identifying and define a Prospectii Strigoi Vii include. Each seeker is a unique experience and there are certain qualities which distinguish a Strigoi Vii seeker from other Sanguinarium or vampyre families. • Realists in that vampyrism is more than just a fashion statement. From the mundane of Vampyrism do not turn into bats or mist, do not physically live forever, have super human strength and exist as real human beings who seek spiritual evolution.

• Ambition and realizing the world is not an easy place and willing to challenge things in your life . You must realize that you are your own being and if you want to get things done in this world you have to do many of them yourself. • Individual, you are not a follower, sheep or seeking membership to a vampyre fan club for gratification or just looking for something to belong to. You are seeking affiliation with the Strigoi Vii for self growth and to achieve the Zhep’r individually and as a collective.

• Acknowledge your talents and skills in both the dayside and nightside. • A sense of wonder and that their is more for you in this world. • Magickal ability, no fear of the occult and a skill at ritual and energy work. Many Strigoi Vii are encouraged to be powerful and skilled magicians, members of various the Left hand paths and organizations (Santeria, Buddhism, Gnostic Christianity, paganism, Setian, Tantric workings, etc.). • Support of the Family. We want people who are dedicated and loyal to the Family with a dedication and love of their heritage. Who want to see the success of the Family and put it first amongst all other vampyric or occult organizations. • Humbleness & Patience. You have to understand and be willing to make the investment in the family as we are making in you. It will take time before you formally get initiated and if it does not work out there is a reason. Even if you are an “elder” in another family we respect those willing to take the necessary steps to like everyone else to join the family. Time tells all and we respect ambition to get involved, but there is more than knowledge and ambition to becoming Strigoi Vii.

• Seeking one’s Dragon Within (their higher self, archangel, etc.). Giving a vision of what one’s ultimate state of existence is and realizing that pursuit of this state is never 9

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira completed and the journey is the experience. Basically striving for perfection. • Willingness to learn and educate oneself and contribute to the Family with your knowledge knowledge base at all levels. • Business sense. Understand we all have to eat and pay our dayside bills. The Strigoi Vii and the Sanguinarium is not a place for freeloaders and traditional traditional psychic vampires or people who sap others. • Love of aesthetics. Within ritual or going out, all Strigoi Vii should be well presented and dressed. Also aesthetics are a powerful tool of communication and atmosphere in the scene and ritual. No one likes a poorly dressed vampyre. We are a decedent and fabulous group as well as serious about what and who we are. • Serious. We are looking for people who take vampyrism serious and are not interested in a seeing life as a role-playing game. game. Strigoi Vii are students of the world and wish to explore every aspect of this gift and opportunity we call life. • A healthy ego. We do not want people who are ego-manics, but have a healthy ego or realize they have a big one and are willing to work on it. • A good sense of humor. The ability to laugh at things. • The ability to face and acknowledge your fears, problems, prejudices and forgive honest mistakes. We do not want guilt ridden people who hold on to things and cannot move on. • A willingness to share with others what you have found, in the right place and time and to be silent when it is not the right place and time.

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LIBER JAHIRA The Syllabus of the Strigoi Vii Initiate

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Liber JAHIRA For the Seeker, the first step in Zhep’r is completing the Liber JAHIRA ascension to that of the Strigoi Vii Initiate. To properly gain results from this entire syllabus, it must be take from the perspective of a balanced materialistic, pragmatic and skeptical individual. The core tool of any Strigoi Vii initiate is their own Grimoire, a term often associated for ancient diabolical books of magick. This Grimoire will be the journal of practices and a spiritual diary of Zhep’r. Any notebook or diary book will do, customization is often amongst Jahira such as leather covers or the like. This Syllabus can be done on an individual basis through solitary work. For those seeking a more formalized initiatory system are invited to contact visit the Current of Elorath message boards at http://www.strigoivii.org . Zhep’r is the metamorphosis of the Self to ascend to achieve the Vampyre Condition combined with the foundation of a spiritual awakening in the perspective of the Strigoi Vii. Once achieved and maintained through initiative and action the results will be the individual Living Vampyre can be prepared to defeat the Second Death and solidify and experience personal immortality of the Self. The Mysteries are the keys and a system to facilitate this transformation. Markers of Zhep’r within the Jahira Mystery: -

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Begin to learn from the examples and assume the perspective of the noble and majestic rulers the wilds such as the lion, wolf, hawk, shark and eagle. Look towards humans as the victim roles of the prey animals including the hair, vole, rat, mouse and deer. The ultimate desire for and the spiritual hunger of Zhep’r. Realize that only results matter, for knowledge (gnosis) can only be achieved through actions not words. Successful personal testimonial of the existence of Life-force (prana) within the ethereal world, look to the theories of Asian martial arts and practices such as Yoga and Reiki. Enter a nightclub, concert hall, mall, amusement park, cinema or crowded city street where humans gather, try and feel their collective prana like you would a cloud of moisture in a sauna. Feel the ability to pull it towards you with the inhale of your breath and feeling the subtle world around you. Be willing to keep a detailed journal (Grimoire) and detail your experiments, accept the results may differ from your expectations. Experiment with the Sanguine Mass and achievement of encounters with the disembodied Undead of the Family (Strigoi Morte). Begin to loosen your grasp on the human slave bonds of poverty, mental suppression, depression and an empty wallet. Never force another to see your perspectives, invite them and if they are Family they will find agreement or eventually with reason and results they may choose to agree. Let logic and reason rule you, tangible results can see seen and felt as if you experienced them through sight, smell, taste, sound and touch. 12

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira -

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Observe your actions, how they effect humans and how you can learn to get reactions from them. Walk more upright and proud, speak slowly and look them directly in the eye. You will demand their respect. Understanding of the different layers of reality including physical / corporeal (Maiiah), Ethereal, Astral and Spirit. An understanding and application of the principles of Vampyric Etiquette & Respect. Look words the power of a healthy life, happiness, pleasure and personal power. Willing to test and explore Strigoi Vii Mysteries through a skeptical, pragmatic and objective approach. Willing to uphold and abide by the common sense and logic of the Black Veil. Experimented with the Sanguine Mass by performing it at last once. Has read the Scroll of Elorath and the Scroll of Jahira portions of the Sanguinomicon. Successfully experienced Ambient Communion. Chosen a Family / Nightside name and created a sigil of their own. Obtained the following tools (which should be consecrated in one’s dedication): Seek out other members of the Family if you need guidance and encouragement, do not train them with wasted efforts of humans mental slave bonds. To embrace your Blood and realize your potential you must begin take on these characteristics, for only You can take the initiative. Take your time and only proceed when you are ready, however realize that there is a limit to the mortal coil and your opportunity is here. These things should be established before taking on the challenges within the Second Mystery of Calmae. TOOLS OF THE JAHIRA

The Jahira should acquire some tools in which to perform their workings. These basic items are designed to aid in focus and ritual. These include a Grimoire, which is a journal of dreams, workings and results. The second is a basic black robe and mask for Sanguine Mass and finally each Strigoi Vii should have a personal copy of the Sanguinomicon.

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ASCENSION VOWS (memorized and spoken within Sanguine Mass before the Offering):

“I ( mundane / dayside name) come into this chamber of my own free will, to stand before my sorors and fraters, in love and loyalty with the full intent of initiating myself into the Mystery of Jahira, the Strigoi Vii Initiate. I vow to test and explore Strigoi Vii mysteries from an objective perspective. I vow to uphold the covenant of the Strigoi Vii Black Veil as my pillar, sword and shield. I place this symbol of our Family and mysteries above my heart to formally consecrate it. I vow to honor and keep the secrets of our Family from all who is not initiated. Does anyone oppose my initiation? Speak here and now! Well then, I know declare myself Initiate (Family / Nightside name) of the Strigoi Vii”

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THE STRIGOI VII CHARGE I am Strigoi Vii of Sahjaza So We Begin! Truth is within my nightside, all I must do is listen to myself for I am my own temple. I lead, explore, learn, inspire, feed, create, love, provide, dance, honor & pleasure. I acknowledge my dayside is the sensory illusion known as the Maiiah. I acknowledge by nightside as my natural, primal and magical subconscious. I uphold and respect the Black Veil & the Strigoi Vii Covenant, the foundation of ethics of our people. I exalt my rational mind and hold no belief that is in defiance of reason. I recognize the difference between the worlds of reality and fantasy. I acknowledge that I am at the top of the food chain, however respect the chain I am on. I worship those who give me their most precious gift. Sahjaza is my chosen family, I honor our path and traditions. Therefore I will make the most of life here and now. For I am Strigoi Vii, So We Begin! HAIL ELORATH!!!

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THE HYMN TO THE ANCIENTS

I am the most Ancient. There was none before me. I peer out from the gateways of your soul and sitting upon thine throne. For my blood dances within your veins. It is for me that you experience love, lust, passion, beauty, ecstasy and all the worldly pleasures. For I am the worshipper of Life. The mundane is the worshipper of Death. For I rule through mystery and influence, from behind the veil. In the Rakasha I gather my strength, In the Maiiah you are my vessel. Sate my thirst & your fantasies will be realized. Through my Magick, all is possible. Beware of being locked in the dream, for it is our bane. The mirror is your gate to my domain. For we are one in the great collective. Yet individuals of choice. Sip from the cup of my power. For I am your Dragon Within HAIL ELORATH!

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THE BLACK VEIL The Black Veil is the first five Pacts of the Strigoi Vii ("Living Vampyre") Covenant. This Family which has in recent years has manifested into the community what Synod calls the Sanguinarium (“Guild of Blood”). This is the only edition of the Veil endorsed by the Synod. Previous editions have high merits; however they have not captured or expressed in words the tangible Dayside realities of the mundane world, which must be first addressed to insure the security and prosperity of the Sanguinarium and the Strigoi Vii. Those Strigoi Vii or Black Swans who violate these laws within the Sanguinarium may face banishment or excommunication. Because we are socially responsible individuals, the consequences of our actions may be perceived and have various repercussions as we become more visible to the Dayside world. Those bearing the Legacy Ankh, be they Strigoi Vii or Black Swan, are making a statement that they are upholding these Pacts, which is this edition of the Black Veil. These acts are innate for the responsible members of the Family. For the first time they are formally revealed in writing in a direct and simple format. DICLAIMER: Whilst these Pacts cover activities within Synod endorsed Sanctums, what consenting adults do within their private bedroom chambers is their business so long as it does not bring forth negative results upon the Sanguinarium and the Strigoi Vii. Adherence to this code is expected of all Strigoi Vii and Black Swans whilst in official Sanguinarium Sanctums (sacred spaces) and is not to be imposed upon the greater community or upon those who do not wish to embrace this common sense and logic. i. SECRETS Secrets secure, protect, bind and unite us into the foundation of these Pacts. Our Mysteries are our own and those who wish to explore them should seek them out on their own through personal Initiative and Action. As a slight of hand magician would employ the principle of “hidden in plain sight”, so shall the Living Vampyre. Honor one’s choice of privacy, for example in regards to their Dayside identity, and never disclose their information without their explicit permission. Inner Mysteries are to be reserved for the formally initiated into the Synod. Public discussion of the Nightside with the media, publicly or with those not of the Blood, is an obvious violation of this tenet. Speak only for yourself, not for the whole of the Sanguinarium. ii. HONOR MUNDANE LAW Adherence to the laws of our local governments, even if we disagree, is essential to provide us the freedom to explore our Nightside nature. If we disagree with mundane law, we must strive to be individually and socially responsible enough to change them through bureaucratic means. iii. THE METAPHOR OF BLOOD Strigoi Vii view Blood as a symbol and metaphor of the subtle life-force better known as Prana. We extend this Blood metaphor also to symbolize the ties of the greater Strigoi Vii Family. We are not Hollywood Vampires who consume physical blood. To satisfy our spiritual hunger we choose other forms of Communion which we find much more efficient and substantiate our Mysteries. This makes a clear avoidance of legal liabilities 17

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira and health risks such as blood born diseases (Hepatitis, Syphilis, HIV/AIDS, etc.). Strigoi Vii simply cannot endorse blood drinking as we, Living Vampyres, do not need to drink human blood for the purpose of Communion (feeding)." iv. RESPONSIBILITY FOR MINORS We must honor the need for minors to establish a skeptical, materialistic, objective and rational Dayside foundation before exploring and embracing the Nightside. Those who have not reached the age of majority (eighteen) should not be permitted or encouraged to explore our Mysteries, participate in ritual or enter our Sanctums. Thus no minor shall ever be involved in Strigoi Vii privately or publicly.

v. CIVILITY Is the trait of evolved individuals. If you have a problem with another of the Blood, resolve it privately and civilly. Honor and resurrect long lost codes of etiquette as it will show a more refined and empowered presentation within Sanctums and to the mundane. No Living Vampyre would ever physically harm another human for the purposes of feeding.

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EQUILIBRIUM Within all layers of reality exists a balance which we address as Equilibrium, the balance of duality comes in a pattern in most layers of reality. Look for this pattern in examples such as north and south, up and down, male and female, predator and prey, light and dark and positive and negative. In the layers of the Maiiah, Ethereal and the Astral opposites attract, predictable reactions occur and everything has duality. Within the realm of Spirit comes exceptions such as the Dragon, the Dragon itself is the core of the Self. The Dragon Within cannot be summoned, invoked, evoked, given any distinguishing characteristics, for it is the seat in which all experience and perceptions are viewed from. More detail on such will be explored in Liber Calmae. The foundation of understanding Equilibrium begins with the duality of the Strigoi Vii known as the Dayside and the Nightside. Finding equilibrium and balance between the two results in an effect known as Twilight. Without this foundation no Strigoi Vii can truly pursue Zhep'r successfully. The Dayside

The Dayside is the mundane world which solely exists in the Maiiah and functions as your daily presence. This is the version of you that you show to everyone. This is the experiences what you are born to, where your parents urged you to take education, get a good job, make a career, find a fantastic partner for life and get kids. In the Occult one often attempts to break out of the patterns of the Dayside. The Strigoi Vii seeks not this path, he/she builds a as strong as possible foundation in the Dayside. By building up this, we improve our financial, cultural and social status. In the Dayside lays the foundation for the Nightside and the Equilibrium which we call Twilight. The Mundane of the Strigoi Vii is that of the skeptical materialist who explores the world with a nononsense, proactive and positive perspective. The key is to approach 'truths with doubt and see the Maiiah for what it is, and enjoy it to the fullest. Nightside

In the Nightside the Strigoi Vii works his/her magic. It is where we explore our Mysteries in Ritual with the Strigoi Morte and extend our knowledge of the Dragon. In this side of life we experience the Rakasha, and fly our Dragon trough the world of Maiiah. The key concept is suspension of disbelief. The Strigoi Vii learns to shift paradigms and differing perspectives of reality as they serve him/her, akin to changing cloths, thought patterns and movements for different occasions. The Strigoi Vii engages absolute acceptance in magic only when magic is actually used. Throughout history those who have experiences which spawned the tales of “vampires” in mythology and legend are often calculated results of encounters with Strigoi Vii and Morte. Equilibrium of Twilight

The Strigoi Vii will trough equilibrium in mastery of the Mundane and the Nightside start to experience the Equilibrium of Twilight. In the Equilibrium there is no separation of these two sides and you work your magick in the Nightside to give you the 19

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira ability to alter your Maiiah experience. And what you do in the Nightside impacts on your mundane life in the Dayside. In Equilibrium you are one with the Dragon and the Strigoi Vii's experience is trough the Perspective of the Dragon. Balance

The path of Immortality to Ascend and be one of the Strigoi Morte goes true experience. Your experience builds your Zhep’r. Zhep’r is personal, mine and yours are not the same. When approaching knowledge use the tools of the Mundane and your experienced tools of the nightside to create Zhep’r. A Strigoi Vii seeks balance. To achieve immortality, mastery of the world in Equilibrium through Twilight it is crucial to balance the Dayside and the Nightside.

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira For the vast majority of the mundane world, the only reality which they can experience is the world which is perceived through the five senses. However, there are other subtler layers, realms and planes of existence which interpenetrate our own. This sensory reality is the physical and tangible world, which can be most easily compared to a dream or illusion. In Hindu teachings, this is often referred to as the Maya. In Strigoi Vii we spell it ‘Maiiah’. Beyond the Maiiah lie the subtler layers of reality, which we address here collectively as the ‘Rakasha’. Sometimes these can be compared to dimensions; however, it is more complex than that. Within the Rakasha lies the layers of ethereal, astral and spirit, each with their own distinct qualities. All the layers of reality are interconnected and affect each other, very much as does the worldwide economy or politics. An action which takes place on the spirit plane may have an effect in the ethereal and an action in the astral may affect the corporeal reality. The most important thing to remember is that all four of these layers are all present at the same time. According to the Gnostic teachings, the word “hyle” refers to the vast majority of humanity who are unawakened to the Dream and their perspectives are limited to the five senses. They lack the potential, in this incarnation, to awaken to the Dream of the Maiiah. This is very much like being in a dream and beginning to experience lucid dreaming: basically, being aware that you are dreaming. At that point, with proper discipline, you can begin to shape and affect the outcome of the dream you are in. The individuals with such discipline are the “awakened” who can see beyond the Maiiah into the subtle realms of the Rakasha. All beings exist on all four layers presented here, however few can experience, perceive or much less interact with all of them. Those with the potential to awaken to the dream in Gnostic teachings are known as “psychics” and some, though few in number, however very few are born awakened and are known as “pneumatics”. The psychics and pneumatics have gone by many names throughout history including witches, vampyres, magi, mystics, shamans, psychics, magus, magicians, occultists, and so on. The barrier between the sensory reality of the Maiiah and the subtle layers of the Rakasha is simple known as the Wall Between Worlds (WBW). Throughout the year the WBW can vary in strength, especially on the equinoxes, particularly around Samhain and Walpurgis nacht. Ritual, ethereal and astral projection, trances and even the use of certain substances, such as peyote, can break down the WBW for those who do normally cannot, or have a limited awakening. Traumatic experiences such as near death experiences can temporarily or permanently awaken an individual’s ability to perceive. Many mystics and psychics do not gain their abilities of perception unless they have a trigger of some sort. The true awakening for the Strigoi Vii is an “opening the vampyre eyes.” In Hollywood two films actually touch and explore this subject, which include the Matrix Trilogy and Interview with the Vampire . Both of these films can be accredited as giving visual explanations of these theories. 22

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira In the Matrix, Neo is brought out of the Matrix (Matrix) and into the “real world”, there is a great deal of adjustment and at the point which Morpheus takes him out, his mind had a hard time accepting it. Since he had the potential he could eventually accept it and eventually bend, not break, the laws of the Matrix to his will. When he went to the Oracle and met the child out in the waiting room, who was a pneumatic, the child asked: “is the spoon really bending, or is it your mind?” These different layers are simply different perceptions. Being awakened is simply the ability to look from these different angles, which is the true gift of an awakened being. In Interview with the Vampire, we see when Lestat passes on the “Dark Gift” to his child Louie in the swamp, he tells him to “look with his vampire eyes”. We see the statue Louie looks at open its eyes and look at him in an almost subtle, corner of the eye experience. Thus the true awakening is also not a single event; it is a series of experiences which can take place over a lifetime. Once we can look beyond the Maiiah, we must learn how to walk in it and bend it to our own will, now that is the true definition of a magician. Amongst the Strigoi Vii, these layers are commonly defined in the following scheme:

Corporeal

The denser of the layers is the world experienced by the five senses, the world of flesh and blood, and the realm of tangible “solid” matter. Within the four bodies of the Kabala this corresponds to the world of action and matter, the Assiyya , while in Egyptian mythology this can be related to akh , the physical body. The death of the physical body is often called the First Death. Eventually the ethereal body will follow in a matter of days or weeks, as the ethereal is sustained by the physical. Maintaining the structure of the corporeal body through mummification was an important part of preserving the ethereal body after death in many ancient cultures, most notably ancient Egypt.

Ethereal

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira The beginning of the subtle world of the Rakasha is comprised of a less tangible matter known as “ether” or vital energy. Yetsira in cabala, ch’i of Chinese medicine, and the ka of Egyptian mythology are simply names for the etheric layer of the body. The ethereal world lies between the corporeal world and the astral. When looking at the etheric body of a human being it can be broken down into two aspects: The first aspect of the etheric body molds itself around the physical body and is slightly larger, extending only a few inches away from the skin. Within this first layer there are ethereal equivalents that include the meridians (etheric veins), prana (etheric blood), and chakras (etheric organs). The second aspect of the etheric body is commonly known as the “aura”; this is often expressed in Christian mythology as the halo in paintings and extends out in an oval shaped sphere around the first layer. This layer functions as a vehicle for the astral body and is used to interact with the etheric plane around the body. The etheric body is absolutely tied to the physical body, each sustaining each other. Without the physical body to “feed” it prana or life-force, an unprepared etheric body would suffocate and eventually die, what is known in common occult terminology as the “Second Death”, or the death of the etheric body. Strigoi Morte, are those who have managed to prevent their ethereal bodies from dying through a constant source of prana and reinforcement of their ethereal bodies, thus not facing the Second Death. The ethereal plane refers to the entire world of energy of which the etheric body inhabits. Since ethereal matter is almost like a liquid compared to the solid matter of the corporeal plane it can be extended and even shaped into other forms through the proper training and techniques. While the physical world is not as flexible, here the concepts of ethereal projection and shape-shifting are possible. Heavily guided and affected by the phases of the moon, the etheric plane has its own flows, tides and currents. Some theories say that etheric energy often affects or manifests in the Maiiah in several ways including ectoplasm and visual phenomena. Ectoplasm can either manifest as a fluid, vapor or gelatinous like substance (yes, like in Ghostbusters). Since etheric substance is overshadows or destroyed by most forms of light, this can be compared to the ultraviolet spectrum, which we know, is there, however it is only visible under certain conditions. Through the WBW, sometimes a reflection or “shadow” of an etheric entity can be seen, which often results in ghost sightings or phantasms. This wall can also be pierced by a good deal of specific recording equipment much like those used by parapsychologists.

Astral

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Beyond and within the ethereal layer of the body lies the astral layer, which is purely intangible and can only be experienced. Like the etheric body there are two layers to the astral body, the upper and the lower. In Egyptian mythology the whole of the astral can be compared to the Ba , and in cabala this is identical to the Beria : the place of creation (upper astral) and the place of patterns (lower). The lower astral is the layer of concrete consciousness, where dreams, emotions, thoughts, personality, and imagination reside. It is also from here that the astral body can be separate and travel through astral projection. Only portions of the lower astral can be experienced from the perspective of the Maiiah. When you think, you are experiencing this layer and you can be “astral projecting” when you daydream. The upper astral is the realm of abstract consciousness, where the patters of the cosmos are held through the rule of logic and mathematics. Often thought of as the mental body, this is a place where time and space do not exist being the final layer before the spiritual plane. The pattern of the self extends outwards from this point and shapes the ethereal, as well as the corporeal layers of the body.

Spirit

Beyond the astral plane, there exists the realm of pure spirit where the higher self resides. It is often called the monad , the divine spark, and also thought of as the soul. Within the cabala this is often known as the Atsilut , the place of emanation, concepts or soul. Austin Spare called this the Kia , and Crowley called this layer the “High Guardian Angel” . It is where the core of the self exists, where it begins and where it returns in the cycles of death. In Strigoi Vii this is known as the Dragon Within; becoming aware and learning to communicate with it is an essential experience and part of one’s Zhep’r. Within the realm of spirit, the laws of time and space simply do not exist; it is quite similar to trying to perceive the fourth dimension. Since this is the case, the spirit body or soul is truly immortal and cannot be destroyed. Spirit simply exists.

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THE SCROLL OF MAIIAH The Dayside must be the absolute priority for the Strigoi Vii; this is comprised of common sense, materialism, skepticism and rationalism. Without this solid foundation the Strigoi Vii cannot properly explore the irrational, mystical, and almost fantastic elements of the Nightside philosophy nor develop an equilibrium that results in Twilight. Beyond the Dayside realm of the reality of the five senses, lays a place where the unexplained occurs and where our current perceptions, which are the product of the laws of reality and physics, can be bent and even broken. The core and best relation, we of the Synod, can provide for the Strigoi Vii Dayside is that of a Secular Humanist. This combination of two perspectives beginning with being absolutely grounded, and then being unbelievably flexible in the matters of spirituality. The most important element of Strigoi Vii flexibility in the Nightside can be compared to the elementary concept of the chaos magician using the phrase: “belief is a tool.” When vampyres find themselves overwhelmed with the materialistic minded normality of the Maiiah, they can find release in the Nightside and the ability to rejoin their family. In contrast, when Strigoi Vii find the almost dream-like state and the power of the Nightside too much, they can find equilibrium in the more solid and rational Dayside. To be able to move between worlds at will and achieving a balance between the two is a sign for “Those of the Blood”. Without this we cannot begin our becoming and truly be magickal beings. Like the spiritual side of Strigoi Vii, you are not made a Vampyre, you are only born with the potential to become it, and it is the responsibility of the individual to pursue through action their own steps to coming into being. Seekers verify their awakening by looking into the mirror: the Sanguinomicon. If it does not feel natural, then you are not of the Blood, or have not yet reached a point in the Dayside from which you are ready to launch yourself into the Nightside. Do not try and mold yourself into something you are not. You are either Family or not, and quite possibly you are simply not ready; it is that simple. Learning or being inspired by Strigoi Vii is enough, do not force yourself. Strigoi Vii seek to move above and beyond the standard concepts of humanity on both Dayside and Nightside perspectives. In writing this Scroll and publishing it in the Vampyre Almanac, the Synod seeks to collect enough feedback from the community to contribute it to the Zhep’r of Elorath and all individuals involved. It is simply an experiment in evolution. The Council for Secular Humanism, quite the intriguing organization, defines Secular Humanism: Secular Humanism is a term which has come into use in the last thirty years to describe a world view with the following elements and principles: A conviction that dogmas, ideologies and traditions, whether religious,

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira political or social, must be weighed and tested by each individual and not simply accepted on faith. Commitment to the use of critical reason, factual evidence, and scientific methods of inquiry, rather than faith and mysticism, in seeking solutions to human problems and answers to important human questions. A primary concern with fulfillment, growth, and creativity for both the individual and humankind in general. A constant search for objective truth, with the understanding that new knowledge and experience constantly alter our imperfect perception of it. A concern for this life and a commitment to making it meaningful through better understanding of ourselves, our history, our intellectual and artistic achievements, and the outlooks of those who differ from us. A search for viable individual, social and political principles of ethical conduct, judging them on their ability to enhance human well-being and individual responsibility. A conviction that with reason, an open marketplace of ideas, good will, and tolerance, progress can be made in building a better world for ourselves and our children. 

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If the concepts of secular humanism are not introduced or challenged into the collective of Elorath then there will be no Zhep’r or foundation.

Dayside Zhep’r The very word ‘Zhep’r’ comes from the ancient Egyptian word that means “to become” and is the very core of both the Dayside and Nightside experiences of the Strigoi Vii. Spelled ‘Xeper’ by the Temple of Set and ‘Kheper’ by the members of the Kheprian tradition, essentially they are the same word. Dayside Zhep’r is that consistent move to evolve, transform and progress in all aspects of our lives. We seek to be better artists, become more financially stable, increase our knowledge of history, magick, music and art, thus becoming a better person always seeking to expand our horizons. In addition, we seek to become mentally sound and at peace with ourselves. No Strigoi Vii is happy with mediocrity, the hunger to spirituality and ethically evolve is always there. This must be done within reason, not to steal from or abuse those we care for, rather to always compete with ourselves over with others. The Dayside zhep’r strives to improve the perceptions of reality for the Strigoi Vii and establish a solid foundation in the Dayside world of the Maiiah. For the Nightside Zhep’r is a strong spiritual quest of improvement, finding balance in Twilight and awakening with union of ourselves with the Dragon (higher self) to achieve and maintain immortality.

The Individualist Strigoi Vii are staunch individualists in that we must validate everything for ourselves through personal experience over taking the judgments and opinions of others or in laymen’s terms: “I will believe it when I see it.”

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On Requests Strigoi Vii will never place a demand upon another of the Blood, thus according to tradition, only a request can be made. This concept has been mostly lost or forgotten amongst Vampyres and should even exist between an elder and seeker. Free will of the individual is the most important of all ethics.

Issues of Faith Natural Strigoi Vii must have the conviction and personal strength to see that dogmas, ideologies, traditions, religions and political viewpoints must be weighed and tested by each individual, not just simply accepted upon faith. Faith implies doubt and complete lack of evidence and reason. Like the Gnostics who seek spiritual knowledge (better known as Gnosis) all Strigoi Vii seek evidence for themselves as an individual in all things which are intangible. Over raw faith and mysticism, Strigoi Vii will demand for their own perception of reality that critical reason, scientific methods of inquiry and factual evidence be tried and employed first. This is a constant quest for a greater objective truth, experience and knowledge, which is our foundation here in the Maiiah. However, as we grow in Zhep’r, gain more experiences and find new knowledge, our imperfect perceptions transform in each one of us. This conviction extends even to the understanding that when we were children we saw the world in one way, but we see it differently now as adults. Because our Zhep’r has grown, our perceptions have changed. We must accept the world of ideas and tolerate with respect those who may not agree with us. Strigoi Vii adhere to two very powerful statements, one is “As long as your actions do not interfere with my own agenda in life, do as you will.” The second is “we must just agree to disagree”. Keeping these standpoints will result in empowerment as an individual over engaging in energy wasting conflicts. We stand at the point of mastery, not blind agreement.

Compassion Even though dayside Strigoi Vii philosophies may seem like the concepts of Nietzsche, Secular Humanism, and Carl Jung, with a very objective few of a socially Darwinist world, we are not without great compassion. Our first commitment is compassion for ourselves. When we offend someone we do not sulk, then freeze and make an apology; we take action to mend the offense to the other individual. We take the concept of compassion towards those of faith; we will respect others through attempting to have an understanding of their viewpoint, even though we may not agree. “I see where you are coming from, however I do not agree.”

Materialism Anything for free is not worth paying for, does not have absolute value, and those who work toward something valuable deserve to be appropriately compensated. Strigoi Vii are about gaining pleasure within the Maiiah, being sensible hedonists. We love pleasures such as nice cars, the resources to create, having a quality place to live, good 28

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira food, the freedom to travel when and where we wish, and to provide the best for our children and for ourselves. We support a Vampyric economy and have no shame in making money upon playing- up the Glamour. When you provide a service or product, people have the right to accept it or go somewhere else. Money is energy and as any interaction is an exchange of energy, so is any form of business. However where this gets sticky is when individuals are taken advantage of;, very much like some cult mentalities found among the fundamentalists with people giving over millions of dollars to televangelists. It is true when you do not have money to pay the rent it can be one of the hardest stresses in the Maiiah. When you are in debt you will always have that weight upon your shoulders and soul, limiting your exploration of the Nightside. When you walk down the street and you have money in your pocket, everyone is more confident. Money is a tool to reach goals and obtains supplies to reach it, not the ultimate goal in itself.

Failure & Loss From the perspective of the Strigoi Vii failure is not a loss, it is a lesson and verification that a challenge is set before the individual. Try, try and try again. Thomas Edison took over 10,000 tries to make the light bulb work until he finally succeeded. We see obstacles and failure as challenges to be overcome and as ways to increase our own Zhep’r.

Ritual From a Dayside perspective, Strigoi Vii enjoy and use the psychodrama of theatrical ritual. Group ritual reinforces teamwork amongst individuals and unites us in common goals and agendas. For the individual ritual is rehearsal, an experiment to experience more, and it marks a beginning and an ending to the action of entering the Nightside. Theatrical drama in ritual can also be an extremely powerful tool that assists in raisin and amplifying energy since it can be used as a visual focus. Strigoi Vii rituals take place on two levels -- one Dayside, the theatrical psychodrama, and two the Nightside which is the suspension of belief in order to more effectively break down the Maiiah, fully awaken, come closer to the Dragon and enter the Nightside of reality in a structured manner allowing for spontaneous communion with the Strigoi Morte.

Responsibility Strigoi Vii embrace the concept of respecting the Dayside laws of each community and culture. Though we are an international Family with our own codes of conduct, we must remember that we exist in the real world. No Strigoi Vii should ever commit any illegal act which will bring unwanted and unhealthy attention to the Family. We might not agree with the law, but we MUST respect it for it is the Will of the Ancients. Know that there are repercussions and results for every Action, and that you alone are responsible for your decisions. Educate yourself about risky behaviors, and then always act with logic, wisdom and common sense. Do not allow others to abuse you, but also, do not selfishly abuse.

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Minors Some of us feel the first signs of Awakening at an early age, however the risks of allowing minors to participate the community are too great. Under no circumstances allow minors to attend Quabal, be initiated into an Order of any kind, or gain access to any of our Inner Strigoi Vii Mysteries. Many of the concepts we work with are simply not suitable for children. Youth is a time of contemplation, in which children should build a strong Dayside foundation. Involving minors in Strigoi Vii draws unwanted attention from the mundane world and presents the wrong impression of whom and what we are. Dealing with minors is risky for everyone and can bring greatly unwanted consequences. Those seekers under the age of majority should be encouraged to establish their Dayside on their own through means of martial arts, philosophy, or spiritual rehearsals such as Wicca or other commonly accepted systems.

Religion The Strigoi Vii is considered a spiritual and philosophical meta-paradigm, not a religion. With the birth of the Fifth Aeon of Humanity nearing we consider religion an obsolete concept; a tool which the Ancients have implanted amongst humanity to cultivate diversity of thought. Most religions are based on belief, which as explored earlier, is based on doubt and faith. To the mundane we are defined as a religion and using this perspective is a tool to protect our Mysteries. Is magickal theory a religion? Think and validate for yourself, make your own opinion based on rational thought.

Family All Strigoi Vii are of the same great spiritual Family known as the Sanguinarium. We are all parts of the spiritual organism that is Elorath, where each of our unique energies contribute to its advancement. We must acknowledge and celebrate our individuality, as well as our shared history and traditions. It is the duty of all Strigoi Vii to seek out our own individual paths, and support our brethren in doing the same. When crossed with an unawakened Strigoi Vii, treat them with utmost care, even if the beacon is burning brightly. Do not force them, show support; let them ask questions of their nature and how to develop it, and offer to help them find a mentor to guide them. Make sure you keep within the Law of Secrets, not exposing them to things that they are not prepared to learn. NEVER force someone into following a given path; if they feel the ‘calling’ they will come. Also make sure you keep within the standards of what a Strigoi Vii seeker should be: beautiful, talented, magickal, spiritual, intelligent, ambitious and unique.

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Chivalry Honor, chivalry and loyalty are benchmarks of Strigoi Vii Dayside philosophy. We seek to resurrect and express the empowering traditions of long lost eras, while consistently adapting them for modern times. We are all adults and strive for a higher moral standard. Always be civil, even to your deepest enemy, and resolve conflicts in private. Confront those who have offended you directly and respectfully. When in another’s lair, respect their traditions and laws and never enter without being invited. Also know that it is your right to protect your territory, business, home, your person and the members of your family. Give respect to those who have earned it. Anyone can claim a title, but a true leader will prove themselves through dedication, hard work, and accomplishments. Look upon your Magisters as leaders and guides, not dictators. Look to them as examples and inspirations, but always make your own decisions.

The Life of a Social Darwinist The concept of the Darwinist is that only the strong survive to cull and weed out the week, making the entirety of a species stronger so that it may survive and thrive. We are not talking about harming or killing any human or animal, we are talking about reality. Strigoi Vii do not believe everyone is equal, however we do believe in equal opportunity and without the weak, there can be no true measure of the strong and powerful. Without this contrast nothing can truly be special or unique.

Sacrifice Many people may think of the standard fundamentalist Christian propaganda of Satanists which throws us in the same pool as devil worshipers who sacrifice unwilling babies to dark deities. Religions have no true hold upon us except as tools for controlling belief. With Strigoi Vii embracing the coming of the fifth æon and the Age of Aquarius, the time of virgin purity and self sacrifice that was a part of the Christian æon is showing signs of coming to an end, and we are now focusing on the reality of individualism. Within individualism free will of ourselves and others is held as the primary objective and virtue. Taking the life of another being, unless it is in self defense, is simply inconceivable within the framework of Strigoi Vii philosophy.

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Revenge, Forgiveness and Mercy There is a simple protocol for this: Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. Fool me three times… well there won’t be a third time. There is an exception however… When one takes risks and the agenda fails due to circumstances outside of one’s control: that is simply a risk. Malicious, egocentric behavior will not be tolerated by a Strigoi Vii.

Strigoi Vii, Fetishism, Sex and BDSM For the Strigoi Vii ‘freedom of will and thought’ through respecting others’ space without being imposing or taking advantage is the highest priority. Strigoi Vii are not senseless hedonists, they are rationalists. What works for the individual is the second highest law after survival. No Strigoi Vii or black swan should feel forced or imposed upon. Being a Strigoi Vii, we are here to enjoy all the pleasures of the Maiiah, one of which is that of sensual experiences and pleasures of the flesh. Many Strigoi Vii enjoy fetishes, DS (dominance/submission) and BDSM (bondage/discipline, sadomasochism), while others will not find these activities arousing or entertaining. Strigoi Vii do not see things the same way as mundane fetishists often do -- which is top and bottom, who is the slave and master/mistress. Strigoi Vii view things more in terms of passive and active roles that work in agreement, with the active performing tasks in an effort to please both themselves and the passive. On the other hand the passive will enjoy various aspects of receiving the experience such as bondage, flogging, role-playing and even some taking and willingly accepting commands. Some within and outside of traditional BDSM or fetish circles may see passive roles as demeaning, however that is not the case here. The passive role is simply the receptor that has the ultimate decision to deny or accept anything which they feel is beyond their limits. It is the duty of the active partner to guide any play or activities after a logical negotiation on the needs, limits and interests of all parties. Since the Sep Tepy theory, those of the Kitra caste were originally drawn and patterned after the members of harems, entertainers, courtesans, geisha, dancers, musicians, artists and other roles which are considered sensual or hedonistic in society. Thus the Kitra are often drawn and find power in the passive role, however this is not always the case with those currently incarnated, since many Kitra are often now in a more active role.

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira The concept of polyamory, polygamy and open relationships are very common amongst the Strigoi Vii. Many times we feel we have met lovers of previous lives but have little time in this incarnation to waste, or that we should not restrict our highly passionate natures to the standard human concept of relations. These forms of lifestyle require specific strengths and mental freedoms to function properly.

Immortality The center of the individual should begin with physical health and the body. The Maiiah is where we all begin our perceptions since it is the most tangible. Take care to keep things in moderation, do not drink to excess, keep your body in absolutely the best shape and seek to avoid the effects of aging. How we feel physically affects all other layers of the Self. Survival of the Self is the highest Law, for without that survival and continuation of the Self, we do not have choices. Immortality on the Dayside is through being remembered through others. That is a lasting impression or impact on this world. Why do people want to become famous? Or through having children and naming them in your honor. Or through making a piece of art and letting others love it (such as D’Drennan’s ankh). Rembrandt is in the MS Word Spell Check but he has been dead for a hundred years! Or…through Spiritual immortality; the continuation of the self, the whole self, as defined by YOURSELF.

God, Gods and Deities Since Dayside Strigoi Vii expect tangible proof and evidence for verification for the individual, we from the Dayside perspective see Gods and Deities first as collective consciousnesses made up of the common actions of a group of humans who feed them. This entity in modern magickal theory is often known as an Egregore. The Strigoi Vii see deities as a child would see the Tooth Fairy or Santa Claus as gods. When a child behaves all year long and leaves an offering of cookies out for Santa or a tooth under their pillow for a quarter from the Tooth Fairy they are worshipping and thus charging that egregore. Then they Awaken, see the entity for what it is: a collective social construct in culture. They become priests of those egregores and encourage their children to follow in the same traditions to feed each egregore in suit. Eventually those children will become adults, thus enjoying the same with the next generation. The mundane human has at this point very little tangible evidence in the world to prove the existence of an ultimate intelligence that created our reality, or that there are supernatural higher beings who control our destinies. However we can surely acknowledge that there are forces at work in this universe which are greater than our own understanding. Egregores can also be the focus towards a symbol or icon that is charged reacting through those who acknowledge it. These egregores have their own karma, will power, lifespan and destiny; and as such they may be tapped as a source of energy. This is the very thing that mundane humans do when calling upon gods and deities. These egregores can barely be controlled; some however can be influences, while many are simply beyoond our control. As a rationalist, the Strigoi Vii from the Dayside philosophy sees that humans created gods as explanations of these or a variety of 33

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira phenomena which is simply not yet understood in the collective consciousness of mankind. When the next generation of mundane humans takes the egregores to the next level forgetting that the deity is a social construct, that egregore reaches godhood. This is, unless they remain within rational consciousnesses and know the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, and Santa Claus are just what they are. Strigoi Vii will see gods as tools and sources of will power, knowledge, and energy; as opposed to actual sentient beings that one can have a chat with or share a beer with at the local pub.

Aesthetics Image speaks as much as actions and words do; it and is a form of communication. A well-dressed and groomed individual gets more respect in the business world; the same applies in our community. Always strive to make a favorable, lasting impression, while remaining true to your nature and tastes. We strive to be more in all our aspects, and it is recommended to incorporate that communication into our aesthetics by dressing with elegance and distinction. Aesthetics are also powerful in ritual; we must understand how to use them first as a focus and tool, and not be overwhelmed by the image we wish to portray. A fledgling Vampyre may wear gothic clothing expected by the mundane human of a vampire all the time, simply to enhance their personal Glamour. However the elder may only dress in such fashion on occasion or within sanctum. During the day they will always wear clothing which demands respect. No matter what you say, when dressed in a manner which demands respect you will gain the ear of the mundane. Even the late Malcolm X told his disciples to dress in suits and never physically attack those who did not agree with the Nation of Islam’s philosophies. The point here is people will listen, if you are presented well. Aesthetics are power through Glamour of human nature! Why have so many in our Family forgotten this simple idea? The true Strigoi Vii will employ this principle!

Asarai and Traditional Psychic Vampires Of all, the vilest creatures on this plane of existence are the ‘asarai’, who according to esoteric tradition are known as psychic vampires, as defined by Dion Fortune and the good Doctor Anton Zander LeVay. The asarai are a plague to our Family, sometimes even more than the fundamentalist movements of many major real world religions. Asarai come from within and without the Sanguinarium. Their skills exist solely in the dayside and there is rarely anything metaphysical about them. Asarai often have significant mental problems, a serious lack of confidence seeking to make us feel guilty, or that somehow we owe them something. If these psychic vampires manage to get their claws into us we might not even understand why we feel indebted or responsible for them. The asarai are a diverse bunch.

The ones coming to the Sanguinarium often 34

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira masquerade as one of us, seeking “advice” on how to deal with their affliction or “energy deficiency”. Often they are the over-willing donor, the housewife playing the role of the elder and defender of the community, and those so obsessed with “peace and unity” of a “community” that they forget their own Zhep’r or the equivalent. Particularly dangerous asarai are those who have come into contact with a Strigoi Vii, have been played with or drained for their parasitic nature, and/or developed sympathetic vampyrism since they were fed upon too deeply over a prolonged time. Some are those unawakened who do not see their own natures or their emotional and unconscious attacks. Traditionally, a common example of a psychic vampire in occult lore is a person who creates melodrama, or a reaction, to gain attention from others. Another definition is that they are like the miserable person lying in an elderly home who no nurse would wish to aid, for the entire room is full of draining energy. Some within the community use the term “psi vampyre” to describe those of us who feed upon life force in an honorable manner. We commend their efforts to attempt to define our nature, however we do not agree with the need to re-define a word which has been charged and defined for decades.

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by Father Sebastian

A “Glamour” according to the Webster dictionary Function: noun. Etymology: Scots glamour, alteration of English grammar; from the popular association of erudition with occult practices: 1 : a magic spell 2 : an exciting and often illusory and romantic attractiveness; especially : alluring or fascinating personal attraction.

From the perspective of Strigoi Vii role-players: gaja, films, movies, fantasy and the Hollywood portrayal of vampires are all a part of a “Great Glamour” that has surrounded our people for eons. However before I get into the details of this pillar: be forewarned. The trends amongst the asarai (traditional psychic vampire) and many of the real vamps that have gathered solely on the Internet, have no concept of real world and in-person interactions. This has caused them to resent the concept of the Great Glamour, weaken it and take it apart since they wish for some sort of social acceptance from the mundane world that is unrealistic and absolutely unnecessary. They are usually seen by government agencies and the mainstream reality as harmless kooks, or as having psychological issues which are no threat in reality since they sit behind the shield of a computer screen, using it as their escape from real-world interaction. These individuals see vampyrism in theory and as an explanation for an energy deficiency, which could be more of a psychological excuse for some sort mental lacking, or need for acceptance than an actual spiritual hunger. Another perspective is that some of them are absolutely right on the money and others, who are only emotional vampires, join in on the bandwagon. Most asarai and psychic vampires simply have not gone beyond a theory and have no true results in practice. I can understand this need, as humans are social creatures and with us wearing the skins and conscious minds of humans are influenced; we are often bound to those needs while incarnated. However we Strigoi Vii, who embrace and are engaged in life, will not tolerate the melodrama promoted by the asarai. We must help restore the Great Glamour that they have weakened. To be honest it is just a part of the Darwinist reality we live in, and a sort of culling. It is a fact that no other time in the history of the vampyre community was it stronger than when clubs like MOTHER were at their height, the world knew little of our reality and we could remain hidden within the Masquerade set up by the role-players. We danced in aesthetics, beauty, romance, mythology, legend, and chivalry while playing-up the mystery and began our “hidden in plane sight” seduction of the world. Why should this be different today? These tools are what defined us, aided us in our communion, protected us; we cannot forget these traits of our Glamour! Some theorize that the Glamour was a part of the Strigoi Morte slowly conditioning the human subconsciousness in preparation for our return to the Maiiah and the coming of the Fifth Æon, while others may just see it as a natural human reaction to our existence. For whatever reason, it is a powerful tool we should not give up or forsake, for by doing so we will loose the very thing which makes us unique. 36

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira The Glamour has been built up over the centuries even before the mass incarnations of the Strigoi Vii began. First, the humans manifested exaggerated myths of our kind as we made communion from the subtle reality as Strigoi Morte through dreams. Then mythology slowly was born all over the world in the fears and folklore of the ancient humans. When science and the age of reason brought upon the Fourth Æon around the 15th century, the Glamour of vampires through folklore eventually evolved into expressions such as literature, poetry and eventually film and television. As technology and storylines developed these aspects of the Glamour, it evolved and diversified, thus further seducing and conditioning the human subconsciousness. Today we have multiple natural manifestations of the Glamour including writers such as Bram Stoker and Anne Rice, role-playing games such as Vampire: The Masquerade, and even the Count of the popular children’s show Sesame Street. There are over 150 full length feature films on the vampire legend, with more coming out every year. Let me give some examples of the more successful applications and manifestations of the Great Glamour. Note these are all on the surface levels of the Maiiah and none of them are online. The first is when I was repairing a pair of fangs for one of our cousins in the Hidden Shadows Family, he was an Elder and we laughed as he got his fangs at the BANK in 1996 before the second Vampyre Ball. He mentioned that when he first got his fangs he would sit there on the Subway all decked out covering his eyes with Sunglasses. Then he would just lift his lip ever so slightly and smile at an old lady or little kid, they would slowly move away and stare at him. He then mentioned today those very same people in 2005 would come up to him and be intoxicated. That is one of the good things, which is happening, humans are entranced: the Glamour is working. One of the major things which defined the largest vampyre scene in the world (Gotham Halo) was custom made fangs. They were so thoroughly realistic; they have many uses including functioning as a costume piece, fetish toy, conversation starter, fashionable item, and a way of identifying others who are drawn to the vampyre archetype of themselves in the real world. The fangs even today are a powerful tool of seduction for many of us as they have started conversations in bars with seekers and attracted many donors to a deeper level through embracing. Don Henrie, the vampire “alt” of Mad Mad House is a prime example of the Great Glamour throughout the world. He was a public emissary, whether many from our collective liked it or not. He had the aesthetic prowess of the Great Glamour as well as the legitimacy of being one of our fraters. His picture all over the media, subways and television increased the Glamour even if for a short time by introducing our image to the world. Vampire: the Masquerade and other live action role-playing games served initially, before the internet, as a place for many of us to interact in the real world. Before the Sanguinarium and the Internet I met more psy’s, sanguines, and Strigoi Vii through these meetings of LARPers. They were a wonderful contribution to the Glamour and 37

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira should not made a taboo, but be thanked and continued to be promoted. Plus, role play being a fantasy and Strigoi Vii being a reality, for those who are interested in them, roleplaying games are quite fun and entertaining. The Sanguinarium itself has built up, collected and evolved its own traditions and philosophies from countless sources, which today House Sahjaza calls Strigoi Vii. We must keep up the Great Glamour as it is seductive and we must follow Zhep’r in evolving with it.

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COMMUNION Communion is the system of acquiring the excess life-force generated by a human’s etheric body. All living beings exchange pranic energy, however Strigoi Vii have a deeper need due to a higher etheric (energy body portion of the self) metabolism. This metabolism can be increased through intent or naturally apart of an individual's ethereal body. Prana is the sanskrit word for lifeforce and is goes by many names including chi, ki or akasha and is contained in the etherical (energy portion) of the subtle body. In this article we explore the Strigoi Vii perspective of communion, however if you wish for another perspective and expanded listing of techniques I highly suggest you read Michelle Belanger of House Kheperu’s book the Psychic Vampire Codex by Sam Weiser / RedWheel Publishing. It is essential to realize that most esoteric systems confuse the concept of the ethereal portion of the self with the astral or collectively label it the astral. Within Strigoi Vii we define the ethereal as the energy body that includes the chakhras, aura and pontus, while the astral body is the shapeless consciousness that includes dreams, emotions and thoughts. Collectively these are known within Strigoi Vii as the subtle body, since it interacts however is not apart of the Maiiah's sensory reality. Being able to experience and apply communion efficiently and intentionally is a central part of the Strigoi Vii awakening. Overall communion takes effort, discipline, direction and focus to achieve higher and more developed states and just being tied to the standard interpretation of a parasitic or psychic vampire. Following Strigoi Vii communion system and ethics results in the difference between these two states, Strigoi Vii have honor and respect for their vessels and those who give us their energy. Employment of these teachings is also what differentiates a Strigoi Vii from the fashion vampyres and a major part of the zhep'r and metamorphosis which we seek to awaken too. Within an ethical framework of communion, Strigoi Vii never make communion with those who are physically or mentally ill, elderly or with children. Such energies can be quite tainted with impure qualities or can harm the individual. Surface communion, which is in taking the excess prana which is radiated from the ethic body that lies above the skin is fair game. However making communion on a deeper level of the etheric body, by penetrating beyond the aura is considered a violation of the self and can be equated to a form of vampyric rape. Additionally making communion with other awakened beings, especially other Strigoi Vii on a deep level without their permission is simply unethical and a form of theft. Vampyres never feed from each other, they exchange energies, for example between members of different roads and thus are “cycling” this energy between each other.

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira The drinking of blood or “sanguine communion” is highly discouraged, since such behavior can be highly risky and a truly awakened and trained Strigoi Vii has many other options. The major risk of this form of communion is obvious, the corporeal health risks such as STDs, scarring of the Maiiah body and blood borne diseases like HIV, Hepatitis and syphilis. There are also the psychological risks including the significance and metaphor of blood in our culture, as well as the attachment such as potent and direct dose of prana in physical form can imbue. This creates such strong links between the vampyre and their vessel that are nearly impossible to break. The vessel can become deeply attached, possessive and obsessive to the Strigoi Vii and the result can drain the vessel to a point where they manifest the traits of sympathetic vampyrism. No one human can satisfy the spiritual hunger which a Strigoi Vii has developed or is natural to them. Simply put, a Strigoi Vii needs a variety of frequencies of energy and larger doses than one individual can generate. As well due to the independent nature of a Strigoi Vii and current mass conditioning and cultural programming of the human population, maintaining healthy, long lasting and developed relationships between several vessels is socially nearly impossible, with jealousy being a major factor of human nature. Please note it is essential to realize and to state to the donor is being drained and may not be able to 'refill' their source at the demand of the vampyre's hunger. Some vamps may feed from a spouse - and don't want to feed off of others, however they should be aware that any source that is easily tapped and can run dry quickly, thus causing harm to their donor, which is not something you want to do to someone you care about. This is the most common result of sympathetic vampyrism. Now that we have these realities layed and ethics layed out, let us go into the actual details of the Strigoi Vii system of communion. There are many different types of communion which include unconscious, ambient, sympathetic, tactile, tantric, Mal’occhios and visual, as well as two levels which include surface and deep. All of these require contact between the etheric energy bodies of the Strigoi Vii and the vessel. Cycling energies between two or more Strigoi Vii is when an equal exchange takes place and there is no energy loss. This takes place in situations such as ritual, energy work or such practices as prana games and tantric techniques. Commonly this happens on a deeper level and at all times all parties involved are fully contenting. The most basic and simplest form of communion is that of an ambient. The first thing required to make proper communion is that the ethereal body must interact with a source of prana. This is most easily done through ambient energies which have been released from the etheric bodies of humans, such as in large crowds, for example a nightclub, concert, cities, rallies, airports, malls, amusement parks, universities, etc. The quality and empowerment of the energy can be determined by the mood of the crowd. For example making ambient communion at a funeral or a protest will not be as satisfying as that of a nightclub, sporting event or amusement park that is a more positive energy. 40

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira As discussed earlier there are two levels of communion, deep and surface, there is of course several different types of communion which include unconscious, ambient, tacticle, mal'occhio, tantric and contagion. Each individual will have their preferences and some communions may be more efficient than others. Unconscious communion is the most frequent and since all living beings exchange energy, thus in a way all beings can be seen as vampyric. Some beings simply require more energy and subconsciously take actions to fulfill their needs, this includes mainstream concept of psychic vampires or what is explained in Dion Fortune's book Psychic Self Defense or in Anton LeVay's the Satanic Bible section “Not all vampires drink blood”. Unconscious communion can also be done online without any results from those who have no proper experience, zhep'r or training. These psychic vampires we of the Strigoi Vii call “asari”. Strigoi Vii through the system of communion can move beyond this unconscious state into a highly developed and focused format, gaining powerful results with maintaining our dignity and ethical structures. Within this article we are going to discuss the concept of “ambient communion” which is the first level beyond the chaotic and unconfocused unconscious communion. Ambient prana surrounds us and is the surface energies which are “sweated off” humans and mostly manifested from and around large gatherings such as concerts, public speeches, the cinema or even amusement parks or large cities. Large pools of pranic energy can be compared to a sauna or a clowd and can be collected by moving into this clowd or making ethereal contact with it. There are several steps to achieving communion this way, first one must make contact. Since the ethereal body echo’s and emulates the corporeal body in the Maiiah simply physically putting your hands or part of your body in or near the cloud will allow you to effectively make contact. Once contact is achieved the energy field must be penetrated, almost like grabbing the energy. Drawing energy in is like breathing in vapors and even that visualization and or actually breathing in may assist in training yourself. Flexing your rectum muscles has also proven to be a way of anchoring and creating more of a draw inward. Feel like you are inhaling smoke and visualize the pranic energy coming into your ethereal body. Ambient energy is the easiest to digest since it is already mostly refined and can vary on intensity on the emotions and activity of the group excreting it. Many of us can feel the energy like being on a dance floor or if we have had the experience of being on stage in a theatrical performance or being in a band or as a singer. Rock stars and actors are prime examples of standard humans who have become addicted to the crowd focusing on them and directing the energy to them for a period of time. This is why so many Strigoi Vii are performers or vocalists and gain pleasure from live audiences. Another technique of ambient feeding and even Mal’occhios is costume and aesthetics, much like a fishing lure. The more unique and creative we with our appearance, humans will notice and automatically make contact, thus allowing us the opportunity to draw. You need not be the most beautiful individual or the best dressed, just unique in such a way that people will notice you. 41

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Shielding is the process of protecting oneself from hostile or negative energies, while filtering is the process of separating the good energies from the negative. These harmful energies could come from negative emotions emitted from the astral bodies of the humans carried within the prana. We will deal with this later since it is common sense when making ambient communion whether the energy is safe by the mood and quality of the crowd projecting it. Once you have drawn the energy in hold your breath for a short period of time for the newly acquired quantities of pranic energy to merge with your own ethereal body. Deep communion requires meditation and an expanded ability to hold large amounts of prana at any one time. Experiencing successful communion will result in several tangible and experiencible results most of which is a calming effect, with more vigor. On the astral side your dreams will become more vivid and intense with a better recollection when awake, with an enhanced ability to perform astral projection. You will be more centered, equalized and relaxed, thus being able to perform meditation more effectively. The senses in the maiiah will be more intense, colors will be brighter and your vision will be sharper and things will be more in focus, some attribute this experience to opening your “vampyre eyes”. You will notice that the taste of food is richer and smells will become much more intense. Other awakened will however be able to notice your energy signature not being completely your own, however the main benefit of this is the Strigoi Morte will be more likely to pay attention to you when in Sanguine Mass. More advanced techniques of communion are explored in Liber Bellah which include tactical communion which has many similarities to the systems found in reiki, cycling energy between those who focus on roads, tantric communion and sealing the energies you have collected. Adept communion is the visual technique of Mal’occhios and requires even more discipline and training to achieve properly. Tactile communion requires physical contact, which results in direct contact with the vessel's ethereal body. This system is similar to the concept of laying on hands and employs many of the same techniques as found in systems such as reiki. Tacticle communion is covered in Liber Bellah. Tantric communion is very much like the incubus or succubus of myth and requires sexual contact. When a human is having sex there is an intense charge especially during orgasm and amplification of prana. Learning how to harness this energy is a skill known to the dedicant level of Strigoi Vii and moves beyond a simple tactile contact. Between two Strigoi Vii tantric techniques are excellent for cycling and vortexing energy to amplify and purify it, especially uniting the ethereal bodies in a way that one can actually teach techniques effectively. Contagion communion focuses on breaking down the illusion of distance and space between yourself and the vessel by using a piece of maiiah such as hair, a finger nail or flesh as a conduit that is linked to the vessel since it was grown from their body. Things that pass through the body such as urine or fecies will not work since they are not processed as deeply through the corporeal body in the maiiah. 42

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Mal'acchio is the most advanced form of communion which is expressed in the outer teachings and requires visual contact between the Strigoi Vii and their vessel. Once the individual has mastered Contagion this is the next step. Here extending of tendrils of the etheric body move out to siphoned energy from the vessel, this requires specific training and is covered in Liber Calmae and must be mastered to become a Strigoi Vii adeptus.

The ultimate agenda of mastering these outer forms of communion is communion with the Strigoi Morte in sanguine mass. With learning these skills and techniques one's zhep'r increases and can make the next step of making direct communion with the subtle reality, by attracting and making communion with the Strigoi Morte we can exchange prana for refinded energies and attune ourselves to the otherside more effectively. Additionally beyond these outer techniques Strigoi Vii who move to the Inner teachings will prepared to learn how to make communion with humans in dreamstates and through astral projection. However mastery of these outer teachings is essential for the Strigoi Vii to have a foundation within these states.

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STRIGOI VII ETIQUITTE One of the major cornerstones expanding upon the Black Veil’s pillar of civility is the concept of Strigoi Vii Etiquette. Like secret societies such as the Freemasons or most cultures the Strigoi Vii maintain their own traditions and customs of interaction. Jahira should be familiar with the following forms of etiquette for both in person and online interactions within the Sanguinarium sanctums and the Nightside. When addressing another Strigoi Vii of the outer circle it traditional to use the terms “soror” (sister) or “frater” (brother) to acknowledge they are of the Blood (those who are attuned to the Current of Elorath). Additionally it is customary to begin correspondence with the Latin word for greetings “Ave.” When giving a departure in person or during chats online the most common is writing or saying “Adieu.” In written correspondence it is common to say “Eternally”, “Hail Elorath” or “Zhep’r.” The traditional address for a magister is simply “magister” or “magistra,” which is very much like one would think of a martial arts student addressing a Shao Lin master with the name “master.” Some old school magisters also will go by “matriarch” or “patriarch.” The “Sanguine Greeting” was invented by one of the founding fathers, the late Lord D’Drennan in the late 1990s. This has become worldwide the standard inperson greeting which all Jahira and Black Swans should at least know. The greeting Strigoi Vii should take the right hand of the individual they are greeting, then kiss it on the back of the hand. In return the person being greeted should return the kiss on the back of their hand. This is a custom and is simply polite and keeps up with honoring Lord D’Drennan’s legacy. Free will is one of the highest of all Strigoi Vii principles and thus the most a Strigoi Vii can ask of another is a request, even from magister to acolyte. Never shall any Strigoi Vii demand something of another Strigoi Vii. When attending quorum or within a sanctum it is traditional to dress the role. The dress for ritual is described within the Sanguine Mass chapter of this book. At formal salon noirs, quorums and formal events it is proper to at least dress in basic black and look for a dress expectation in the invite. This is especially proper during festival quorums. If initiated into a road it is proper to be dressed according to the role you are taking, thus Kitra dressing in traditional vestiges of a Kitra and a Mradu in warrior like attire. Proper attire and is a form of communication and is apart of the symbolism of the Strigoi Vii.

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The History of the Legacy Ankh The Legacy Ankh is the best-known sigil of the vampyre / vampire community. Originally the Legacy Ankh was consecrated to represent common sense vampyric (Strigoi Vii) principles that have been forgotten and lost; many of which were included into the various drafts of the Black Veil and fully detailed in one place or listed together. Some older individuals may not remember all of these; however do your research as they appear throughout Sanguinarium & Strigoi Vii history. These lost principles (defined for the modern era include) the Sanguine Coven (we are all of the same Family, of the same soul's blood), Blood (the symbol of vital energy), Glamour (use aesthetics to seduce and enhance, through art & poetry), Worship Life over Death, Dragon (our primal self and the magickal fire of creation), Mystery & Secrecy (mystery seduces thus protects, secrets bind), Zhep’r (becoming & evolution), Immortality (survival is the highest law), Chivalry (be civil and respect others of the blood through etiquette and tradition that is lost to the mundane), Responsibility (remain within the mundane law do not include minors), Foundation (materialistic, rational & skeptic foundation before spirituality) and The Magickal Being (see beyond the mundane dream and sensory reality).

The Ankh in History

The earliest known ankh designs originated in the lands of Khem, the Black Land & the "Gift of the Nile", better known today as Ancient Egypt. Representing in it's original form from the Old Kingdom on to be the hieroglyph for "life" and was only able to be employed by pharaohs and deities, who held the power of life. The ankh was often fashioned into an amulet which became a magickal device for protection and good fortune representing the sigil or symbol which it portrayed. Other well known amulets 45

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira include the Udjat or the "Eye of Horus", and the scarab beetle which was the symbol of the sun. Throughout the history of Khem there were many variations on the word and symbol. Some even believed the ankh represented eternal life with the immortal dead known as ankhu and the sarcophagus was the neb-ankh, meaning possessor of life. In various tombs and temples relief’s the ankh was placed in the front of the pharaoh’s face to represent the breath of life or vital life force. Many gods including Anqet, Ptah, Satet, Sobek, Tefnut, Osiris, Ra, Isis, Hathor, Anubis were depicted as holding the ankh in one hand and a scepter in the other. Especially during the Middle Kingdom of the 11th (1986-1937 BC) and 12th (1937-1759 BC) Dynasties, larger versions of the ankh had mirrors placed within them. It is thought that in Khem and many religions the mirror represented that life and death mirror each other. The ankh itself became truly implanted in the human collective consciousness when it moved beyond the literate population of priests, educated merchants and nobles and appeared on pottery and other crafts. The ankh was often made into an amulet, which was made for more of a general purpose, while a talisman was a set of glyphs or a sigil consecrated for a specific purpose or goal. For example you could create a talisman to aid in the healing your ill mother or win a sporting event, while an amulet would be more of a general idea. The Legacy Ankh sits between these two concepts and is "attuned" to the individual with a small ritual called the "Legacy Consecration", which many of the Strigoi Vii (living vampyre) use in their dedication to the teachings, philosophies and traditions. The fascination with Khem existed throughout or history and the ankh began to make some appearances in modern applications. For example, one of the first true magickal orders, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn (March 1888 - 1900) even used the ankh in their Adeptus Minor rituals. The bladed ankh truly became associated with vampires when in the 1983 the film “The Hunger” staring David Bowie and Catherine Deneuve used it instead of fangs to drain the blood of their victims.

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira The Story of the Legacy Ankh

When the Sanguinarium Family and Strigoi Vii teachings were first being firmly established in the turning point year of 1997, Father Sebastiaan noticed many of the Azralim (the Synod’s term old school vamps, pre-1996) were wearing bladed ankhs inspired by the Hunger. He realized that it was essential for the community to have a unifying symbol to identify each other, especially during the daylight hours when people were not always out in the scene. The idea came into his head even before this, when in November 1996 he was attending a formal affair hosted by the Baroness, a local New York City latex designer. Choosing to sit with others he had met while making fangs he sat with another vampyre named D'Drennan, who Sebastiaan admired his skill at what D called "Metal Manipulation". It was obvious, D'Drennan was the man to do the job and Sebastiaan quickly commissioned him to do the job and it has to be a bladed ankh. Sebastiaan asked D'Drennan to of course make a bladed ankh, which would symbolically represent the nature of the "Blood" which dually meant life-force and the ties of blood between the "sanguine family" of like minded souls. Additionally since Sebastiaan wanted this to be able to unify the community it had to be customizable, thus adding a sheath which could be customized with a small pendant at the bottom for the glyph of whatever coven (later to be known as households) the individual belonged too. There also had to be a curved blade for Sebastiaan's time in the Middle East and love of the 1001 Arabian Night's theme and a garnet for a stone to represent the individual’s ascensions (place within the Sanguinarium community). Traditionally red meant a Calmae (fully initiated vampyric adept), purple referred an elder (someone who has been an adept for at least 5 years) and black a Magister (who has been on the path of Strigoi Vii for at least a decade). D'Drennan went to work and just a short month later in December of 1996 came up with the initial design. The is the original design sketch by D'Drennan precedes this article. Artists being as artists are, Sebastiaan patiently waited 8 months for D delivered the piece in late July of 1997 in a little wooden coffin and included in his commission his now legendary violet contact lenses. Two weeks later on a trip to Los Angeles for the 1997 Dracula Centennial this ankh was presented to Raymond T. McNally (the author of In Search of Dracula, who’s research connected Vlad Tepes as the historical inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula). In September, D took the ankh back and had the first mold made and by Halloween the first 100 pieces were cast. Some of these first 100 pieces were given out to the fang clients of Father Sebastiaan and Father Vincent at their then second Wednesday of each month event, Long Black Veil at Mother. For the first time, the vampyre community in Gotham had a symbol which united them all. During this early installment of Long Black Veil & the Vampyre Lounge, Sebastiaan forged the first drafts of the Black Veil, a code of conduct and common sense which included various principles (more clearly outlined above) from the romantic etiquette of the Renaissance Faire in Sterling Forest New York and the ideals of secrecy and mutual 47

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira respect of the fetish scene. Those who wore the ankh (then called the Coven Ankh were expected to uphold the Black Veil and respect the teachings found in the Scroll of Elorath. Over time the ankh was produced by Sabretooth and endorsed by the Synod (an organization dedicated to the prosperity and preservation of vampyre community and culture) became heavily associated with Clan Sabretooth, the fang clients of Father Sebastiaan and Father Vincent. Over time the Family grew to number over 1200 members, as with any group of that size there were too many "chiefs" and too few Indians, thus splitting in late 1999 into over 40 smaller covens and ronin. The ankh was then renamed the "Legacy Ankh" and discontinued by Sebastiaan, only available as a gift to those whom he felt should have been there for the Mother years of 1997 through 2000. During this time the ankh was not available many organizations including Clan Hidden Shadows, who endorsed by the Synod, added "sheaths" to the ankh and commissioned D'Drennan to craft customized ankhs inspired by the original piece. On Valentines Day 2005, D'Drennan joined the Ancients and two weeks later the greatest conclave (a large Quabal) since Mother to celebrate D'Drennan's life and transition. For the first time the original members of the community including Father Vincent, Lord Vlad & Lady Sky, Father Sebastiaan, Saint Eve (Gabrielle), Empress Chi Chi Valenti, and countless others were in the same room. At the same time the original mold turned up a few days earlier in the possession of Lestat of the Transformatorium (that is his real name, born in 1966 before Anne Rice wrote her books). Seeing the Family together for a common cause, for the first time since the closing of Mother. Sebastiaan felt it was time he took the mold to C'est Manifique, the original makers of the ankh and made a few pieces available again to those who did not have the opportunity to obtain one. Now with the spiritual evolution of the community and the year 2005, being the Sanguinarium year of "Violet Tears", the Synod has discontinued all other variations of these ankhs to return to the original concept for which it was designed for. One original ankh for all those in the vampyre/vampire community who hold dear the traditions of Gotham Halo (New York City) and the Sanguinarium. Several designers and individuals have stepped forward including C'est Manifique to restore this symbol and expand it to include some other variations based on D'Drennan's original design. Thus on Halloween 2005 at the Endless Night Festival the ankh has been be re-consecrated once again to fulfill its original design.

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Main Entry: quo•rum. Pronunciation: 'kwOr-&m, 'kwor- Function: noun. Etymology: Middle English, quorum of justices of the peace, from Latin, of whom, genitive plural of qui who; from the wording of the commission formerly issued to justices of the peace 1 : a select group. 2 : the number (as a majority) of officers or members of a body that when duly assembled is legally competent to transact business 3 : a Mormon body comprising those in the same grade of priesthood.

Quorums within Strigoi Vii are an alternative to households (covens) and quabals (gatherings), this evolved concept is now formally being endorsed by the Synod to further the Living Vampyre community of the Sanguinarium. Existing households and courts were experimented with from 1997 until 2005 are still respected, however are no longer being formally endorsed, however they are acknowledged. Strigoi Vii quorums are geographically based face to face, in-person gatherings of Strigoi Vii who come together for ritual, study, initiation, communion and the pursuit of special interests. Former models of organization proved to be cliquish and distracted from the focus on the individual Zhep’r, a quorum is something, which is an Action. The presider(s) of the quorum calls it forth into existence, invite the participants, organize the venue, time, date, subject and when it is finished, it is done until the next time. It is best to be flexible and plan ahead setting the time and place well in advance for participants to make arrangements such as time off work or coordinate travel and lodging. There are open and closed quorums, open quorums are open to all initiates of Strigoi Vii in good standing. Closed quorums are ‘invite only’ by the those presiding, in either form those wishing to attend should RSVP well in advance. Quorums come in many forms and can be organized on a one time basis or on a fixed schedule such as quarterly, biannually, monthly or even weekly. Here are some examples of Strigoi Vii quorums: International Conclave & Open Quorum hosted by the Synod, Saturday evening of Halloween weekend in New Orleans of the Endless Night Festival. Presiders should report at 7pm for final organization, celebrants should join us at 9pm for discussion circle and meditation, Sanguine Mass will take place at midnight, followed by dancing and cocktails at the Masque Ball. $25 donation requested to offset expenses and space rental. RSVP with Magistra Julia at [email protected] for more details and location. Grande Quorum in Gotham Halo (New York City) to celebrate the Dragon Festival in late April. Presided by Magister Girotto and Adept Pascala, RSVP with [email protected]. We are currently finding the best date for everyone. The current plan is to rent a banquet room on a Sunday evening. Gates open at 7pm 49

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira for presiders and assistants, 9pm for celebrants. Pot luck (bring some food) and there will be a $20 donation requested to cover space rental. Monthly Quorum in Avalon Halo (London, England) held the last Thursday of each month. We have a private back room in a pub from 20:00 to midnight. Please contact Quorum presider Witch Tanith at [email protected] for an interview. Gates open at 20:00, discussion circle starts promptly at 20:30 and ritual at 21:30, followed by cocktails. Amsterdam quarterly quorum, closed however we welcome new prospects with inperson interview. Contact Adept Morgue at [email protected] or through PM. Los Angeles Satanic themed quorum , open, for more details contact Warlock Khan at [email protected] or via PM. Sydney Australia quorum starting, dates TBA. [email protected].

Contract Initiate Aradin at

Proper traditional etiquette for Quorums is that all celebrants split expenses and bring their own ritual tools including their own personal mask and robe. Sometimes the quorum will be pot luck, which all attendees bring a plate of food or drink to share. Even if one does not make the quorum for whatever reason and has RSVPed, it is their duty to still make their contribution to the expenses and not leave the others to front the bills. Quorums should be held in private, away from the mundane world and when Sanguine Mass is in session the Gates of the sanctum should be closed, sentinels appointed. Those who are late must realize that when the ritual is in session, they are out of luck and should wait patiently outside the sanctum or in a nearby location as not to interrupt the ritual. Calling and announcing a late arrival is in proper form as appropriate as then everyone can agree to being the mass or be patient and wait. The Synod highly discourages that if the quorum is open it takes place in neutral ground such as renting a private room banquet space or a room from a coffee shop or hotel. One suggestion is that you tell the management of the space you are renting from that you are rehearsing for a Shakespearian play or are a theatre group as to not arouse suspicion. If you are in a location which is owned by Strigoi Vii or Black Swans there should be no issue. Quorums who have existed for less than a year should not be named, they should be assigned a number (example: Quorum 322). If they have actively survived for more than a year they can adopt a name on the eve of their first anniversary (example the International Conclave hosted by the Synod would be: Quorum Draconis). Time is the best test and this provides the quorum time to evolve and settle into itself. Closed quorums can be, however it is not suggested by the Synod to held at private homes. If this occurs it should be the owner should be amongst the presiders, sometimes a white swan spouse or dayside family member will not be enthusiastic about what is going on, and disrupt the sanctum. This is only successful when all 50

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira arrangements have been made, quests announced and the celebrants of the quorum know each other well. It is improper to just invite individuals, such as mundane lovers or boyfriends to the quorum, this is best avoided. Distractions can ruin the mood and experience for everyone, proper planning and organization will often prevent such problems. Security is also of the highest issue, never invite people you are not familiar with into your home and if someone causes a problem or wishes to run the quorum their own way, they are more than welcome to coordinate their own quorum.

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THE SANGUINE MASS

Photo © 2003 by Lukas Zpira

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Introduction The cornerstone of all Strigoi Vii mysteries is the Sanguine Mass. This ritual permits the Strigoi Vii to create a sacred space known as the sanctum and invite the Strigoi Morte (disembodied ascended vampyres free of the flesh) to receive an offering of prana in exchange for a direct infusion of higher frequency astral and spiritual energy from the Ancients. This process dramatically increases the potential for the Zhep’r (evolution, transformation & becoming) of the receiving Strigoi Vii, including benefits such as clearer perception of the subtle realities, re-enforcement of the etheric and astral bodies, higher reservoirs of prana, deeper dream recall, and the foundation to delve deeper into the Mysteries. This process exemplifies the cycle of energy that exists in our world and is a celebration of life, while the mundane human worships death. Plants take energy from the sun and raise its frequency; animals eat the plants and thus raise the frequency again. Humans eat both animals and plants, thus raising it yet again. The True Vampyres (Strigoi Morte) tap the rarified life-force of unawakened humans and thus transfer it to the highest level possible. The Living Vampyre (Strigoi Vii) is then taught by the Ancients to experience highly spiritual steps in Zhep’r and thus attune their etheric bodies to a specific frequency which potentially will defeat the Second Death. This ritual is established to achieve that attunement, and without it one is simply a psychic vampire (Asarai) with an energy deficiency as described by Magus Aleister Crowley, Anton Szandor LaVey, and occult author Dion Fortune. Zhep’r is the process of spiritual experiences and steps in spiritual evolution and awakening that can be personally validated and result in the transformation and becoming of an individual. One of the primary goals of Zhep’r is increasing of one’s energetic metabolism so that they may prevent the Second Death, which is the death of the energetic (ethereal) body and release of the soul to the here-after. For one to achieve this requires the blessings and higher frequency energy of the Strigoi Morte, as attunement to their spiritual frequency trains the entire self for this state. For best results a solid rational, skeptical and materialistic foundation known as the Dayside must be established. Without this the exploration of what this ritual is intended to do is simply not possible and no results will be achieved. The Sanguine Mass also can also be used to function like a séance, very much like a form of divination in which direct communication with the Strigoi Morte can be achieved. Thus you can also ask for guidance and have questions answered. Unlike other forms of divination the Strigoi Morte will not lie, if they do not wish to answer a question they simply will not do so. From our experience it is not a good idea to ask the Strigoi Morte to actually aid in things. The exchange of energies should be enough for the Strigoi Vii to gain enough energy to achieve the goals themselves by focusing harvested prana into that agenda and directing it with the True Will. We are gods already; this Communion simply is a reminder and provides the energy for us to do our will without their direct involvement. This ritual is best done when the Wall Between Worlds (WBW) is thinnest, such as on All Hallows Eve on October 30th (The Endless Night Festival) or on May Eve, April 30 th 53

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira (Dragon Festival). The New Moon as well is a powerful time since the moon casts no light which will disturb the breaking down of the WBW. Best results are achieved by performing this ritual in a group at least once a month and on a solitaire level about once a week.

Group Ritual Strigoi Vii is primarily intended to be a solitary path, with few entering into groups. However group rituals are also performed in order to generate a greater and more ample offering to the Strigoi Morte, thus obtaining better results. Those in group rituals should have one individual take the positions of each Strigoi Vii road of Kitra (councilor), Mradu (warrior) and Ramkht (priest/ess). Each individual will focus on their respective duties and work with a specific type of energy, thus amplifying the offering through grounding, cycling, purifying and directing the collected prana. In a solitary Mass all three roles are performed by the same individual.

The Symbols of the Sanguine Mass Altar Since the beginning of time the altar has served as the focal point of all rituals, from ancient pagan to Christians and modern Wicca’s. The altar should be facing the west and have enough room for all of the tools of ritual to lie within easy reach of the presiding members. Normally a sturdy table of 3 or 4 feet high, 6 feet long and 3 feet wide covered with a black cloth is best. A large Strigoi Vii ankh symbol should be placed behind the altar with the black mirror centered where the stone should be.

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Lighting If a light source is required, especially for reading or taking notes the Synod suggests a blue light such as the ones used by the military for night missions, the dim red lights as used in photography studios for developing film, or the light from a Sterno candle. These have little effect on dispersing the manifestation of ethereal structures. For rituals which are to take place outdoors, from experience we have found that nights with a new moon are best, since there is as little light as possible. Normal candles are generally too bright and ruin the mood of the ritual, we advise you to employ the suggestions mentioned here.

Speculum This is a black mirror is the most important element of Strigoi Vii ritual, especially for those who are not awakened enough yet to see beyond the Maiiah. Often used in the occult and magick communities for scrying, the Speculum is the portal to the subtle reality (Rakasha) and point of mental visualization. This is usually put at eye level on the west wall of the ritual chamber or on the floor as if a well in the middle of all participants.

Wand Is used to direct the collective will power of all participants and can be made of any normal wood. This should be held by the presiding priest of the ritual. Many individuals decorate and make their wants through customization and artistic endeavors to better attune them.

Athame and Sword The athame is a black or crimson hilted, double bladed knife which is symbolic of controlling the flow of blood, which is of course the physical symbol and metaphor of vital energy or prana. A sword can also be used for group rituals especially in which the Mradu role is being employed.

Chalice In Strigoi Vii ritual the chalice or goblet represents the container of the blood of both the immortal bond of the Family and the life-force which is the offering to the Strigoi Morte and to sate the spiritual hunger of the Dragon. What is most important is the chalice is NOT made of gold, which is a symbol and tool of human slavery and greed. Any silver, metal or glass is absolutely acceptable.

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Incense Scent is the most powerful of all scenes and is often forgotten within ritual as a central mood setter for transference into the nightside. Frankincense and other scents familiar with funerals often are the best, however whatever works to empower those involved in the ritual is the best route.

Cauldron The cauldron should be set on the altar or put about waist level and should be the container for putting out candles or incense. This can also be used to burn parchment sigils for requests from our Dragons.

Music Just as physical tools and décor are important for ritual, music is just as powerful an element for most rituals. Live music is a good dual grounding and energy raising effect. Suggested live music can include drums, bells and gongs. Pre-recorded music such as the chanting of cloister monks, drumming, tribal tunes and gothic music will often help set the mood and direct the flow of energy through the ritual. A personal favorite of Father Sebastian is the ritual theme from the film Eyes Wide Shut. This music should not be so loud as to drown the ritual leader's voice.

Dress Just as the chamber should be full of atmosphere and ambiance so too it is important for the celebrants be properly attired for ritual. This is a major aspect of each individual setting the ritual mood by getting dressed. Most Strigoi Vii rituals such as the Sanguine Mass and Ascensions are most often done with theatrical masks, long flowing black robes and small personalized vestiges such as ropes, artifacts, etc. The masks and robes block out the individual and create an environment where the Maiiah can be broken down and the suspense of entering the Nightside can be more easily experienced. For those with the open mind, courage and confidence some Strigoi Vii rituals, such solitaire masses and the Bast Mass, are best done nightklad, clothed only by darkness. For some workings clothing psychologically is limiting as well as impedes the flow of prana. Often those who do their workings nightklad it will result in a psychological freedom few have experienced before. However all participants must be comfortable, usually within a clutch or household structure groups who are tight knit will work in a nightclub, however for more public rituals it may be a mix depending on the role each person takes up. One major misconception is that nightklad rituals are intended to be sexual orgies, which is simply not true. What must be avoided is manipulation of weaker minded individuals by the ritual leader to just use the ritual group for sexual endeavors over the working of Strigoi Vii traditions. So all must be completely in agreement that while some may be nightklad, others will wear whatever makes them feel comfortable. 56

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira For “masked” and public rituals, Strigoi Vii usually wear the classic long black robes whilst white, silver, scarlet, crimson robes or capes are also acceptable. Mradu should wear armor or symbols of a guardians or a warrior, Kitra most often are dressed erotically and Ramkht should be attired in priestly vestments. These will help with the image of the road each individual has chosen to learn or follow. A cord can also be used, around the neck for Ramkht, tied from shoulder to hip for Mradu and around the waist like a belt for Kitra. There is usually a knot for each ordeal completed in the cords. Jewelry is just as important and sigils should be worn by all to further designate ascension and affiliation and help to set the mood even further. Iron should not be present at all as it distracts from the energy flows.

The 9 Steps of the Sanguine Mass The steps of the standard Sanguine Mass: I.Preparation II.Establishing the Sanctum III.Invokation IV.Invitation V.Offering VI.Recoiling VII.Farewell VIII.Return to the Maiiah IX.Celebration

I. Preparation The sanctum is a sacred space, an environment which is secure from the realm of the mundane and only those seeking initiation or initiated into Strigoi Vii should be in attendance, there must be no exceptions for this most sacred of rites. All individuals entering the Inner Sanctum should have fed to their fill over the last couple days and be ready for the offering. It is best advised that you do not drink or do any form of mind altering substances for at least 7 days, 1 week before the ritual. It is suggested that if you smoke, do not do so for at least 24 hours beforehand so that all chemicals are out of your system. The ritual is best performed in absolute darkness and without electromagnetic interference. If in doors, the chamber where the sanctum is to be set up should have all phone lines disconnected, mobile phones turned off, lights should be turned off and all sources of outside light such as windows be covered.

II. Entering the Sanctum Once everything has been prepared it is now time to enter the chamber or space in which the sanctum will be established. All the points of preparation should be gone 57

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira over again and the flame of the candle lit in the cauldron signifying the sanctum is being erected. It is best to set up a Decompression Chamber which is a room or area outside of the chamber in which the sanctum is being established. Through this starting point the participants must pass from the Dayside mental state of rationality, materialism and logic, into the Nightside where beliefs, fantasies, disbeliefs and all things are possible. Within the sanctum you will have the Gate which is the entry from the Maiiah into the sanctum and the Portal will be the entry to the Rakasha (subtle reality). Thus the sanctum will become a place between worlds and allow for the merger of what is possible in each to occur. For the best results, one must fully accept the perspective that worlds will cross and what is impossible in the Maiiah and only in the Rakasha will become possible. This includes visualizations and belief that the realities of magick will reveal themselves and culminate in the possibility of a tangible encounter with the Strigoi Morte. The sanctum must be of course be sealed and cleansed of all negative and stagnant energies. Those who have solved the Mradu Mystery are often best suited for this role since they have attuned themselves and trained in such tasks. With the athame, wand or sword the individual performing the sealing, will touch each wall, along with the ceiling and floor and state, “By My Will I Seal this Chamber ”. Portals should then be sealed including all doors, windows and reflective surfaces. The speculum should be covered with a black cloth and only removed when the step of the Offering is begins. Once the sanctum has been established then the Mradu can invite Kitra, Ramkht and celebrants (in that sequence) into the chamber. By pointing the athame or sword at their heart and demanding three answers: 1) “ Declare yourself! ” 2) “Do you enter of your own free will? 3) “Do you pass this gate with love and loyalty?” Only then may the other presiders and celebrants pass the Guardian and enter the sanctum chamber. Note: In solitaire rites or with groups that do not have Strigoi Vii initiated or familiar the road mysteries, one person can preside all three roles.

III. The Invokation This part is the declaration of intent and the focus point of will in which the sanctum will be consecrated. Because of the lack of light, for best results this and all future spoken parts of the ritual should be memorized. The Kitra should face towards the west looking into the speculum and directly back at their own eyes. Clapping their hands twice or ringing a bell three times is a good way to bring all attentions into one chorus and focus, thus cleansing the air, then the words of the Invokation should be spoken, here is an example… “Here we stand within this sanctum. Tonight to celebrate with our True Family . Tonight celebrate us. 58

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira It is the blood within us that calls out to be heard. So we have come to enter this sacred space. Let nothing keep us from our purpose. For we are Strigoi Vii. We turn our gaze to you, our fraters and sorors of the Family. Blood calls out unto Blood. You, who share this immortal inheritance, are welcome here in this sacred space. We have gathered the life. We are filled to overflowing with it! As a means of respect for our Zhep’r , we offer this Gift to you, the Strigoi Morte of our Family! In hopes of receiving your Ancient energies! May you feed and be filled from it. We are here to die and continue, to claim our right of Immortality. We are here to rise from death into life! Drink from us…and we shall live forever.” HAIL ELORATH! ZHEP’R!

IV. Invitation of the Strigoi Morte & Egragores The Ramkht with the wand, points to the south, sending forth an invitation to the Ancients and Strigoi Morte counter clockwise and ending in the west. To the South: Open to me. Let your gate swing wide between the worlds. It is our True Nature that wills it to be so. All people, all places, and all things shall feel our breath upon them. The fire of our will shall have no equal. No hindrance shall be placed before us. (Sumerian) De Me Ku-Ku Es Ni-Gu Sumun Ramkht Akhkharu! Gis-Tuku Ni-Gu A-Da-Al Igi-Se..Gin Es Ne Dag! (English) We summon Powers of Darkness in to this sanctum Ramkht Strigoi Morte we invite you! Come forward! Hear my voice. We have gathered a gift for you, come and FEAST! Come forward into this chamber! HAIL RAMKHT! To The East: Open to us the portal that stands between the worlds. We turn to the gate in the east and cry, Open! We reach out by blood and will to all places and things that dwell in the eternal expanse before Us. Our breath is the winds that surround us. We sweep you up in a mighty storm that drives you. 59

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira All shall feel our touch and hear our words. We ask you yield unto me all that we may require. (Sumerian) De Me Ku-Ku Es Ni-Gu! Sumun Mradu Akhkharu! Gis-Tuku Ni-Gu A-Da-Al Igi-Se Gin Es Ne Dag! (English) We summon Powers of Darkness to ourselves Ancient Mradu Strigoi Morte come forward! Hear our voice. Bring help us protect and ground this temple. For we have an offering for you, come and feed upon Us! Come forward to this chamber! HAIL MRADU! To The North: To the gate in the north we declare it open. Our bodies reach out ten fold, all people, places and things. Our hands grasp all. Its life is ours to control. We hold our heritage firm. We tighten our grip further, and you feel the breath of life which our hands can extinguish! (Sumerian) De Me Ku-Ku Es Ni-Gu! Sumun Kitra Akhkharu! Gis-Tuku Ni-Gu A-Da-Al Igi-Se Gin Es Ne Dag! (English) We summon Powers of Darkness to ourselves. Ancient Kitra Strigoi Morte come forward! Hear our voices. Bring us your weaving! Eat, drink of us! Come forward to this chamber! HAIL RAMKHT! To the West: We turn our gaze unto the west. Open to Us, for you are ours mine to rule, and our to Command. Your hearts shall be open to us, all people places and things shall obey our wishes. You will place no blocks before Us. (Sumerian) De Me Ku-Ku Es Ni-Gu! Sumun El-ra-wrath! Gis-Tuku Ni-Gu A-Da Al Igi-Se Gin Es Ne Dag! (English) We summon Powers of Darkness to ourselves. Ancient Elorath, the most ancient of all Dragons, come forward! Source of our eternal pact which is our Family! Hear Our voice. Come forward to this chamber! HAIL ELORATH! ZHEP’R!

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V. The Offering Once the invitations to the Strigoi Morte have been sent and signs of their manifestation are present, an Offering of collected prana (life-force) should be presented. For those who have not achieved proper initiation to the point where they can sense the Ancients, focus all energies into the mirror. As mentioned before, this mirror is the portal to the Rakasha, the subtle realm in which the Strigoi Morte inhabit. In order to release the stored prana for the Offering, it is best carried upon the breath towards the mirror. This is done with a flow in which the Strigoi Vii inhales deeply through the nose and then releases offering in an outward, extended breathe exclusively from the mouth. For more some and more intimate rituals, placing the mirror on the floor can give the effect of a glass bottom boat, while putting it eye level on the western wall presents the impression of a window into the Rakasha. Both positions should be experimented with, as the results may be more effective depending on the individuals involved. Within group rituals, were one presiding member take up each of the roles of Ramkht (priest), Mradu (warrior) and Kitra (councilor). They should join hands and begin between them in an evocation cycling and raising the energy to create a greater offering. Then the collective force of energies should be directed towards the individual taking up the role of the Kitra. The prana should be focused towards the solar plexus, as the Kitra will amplify the energy and releasing it into the mirror, with the Ramkht directing it and the Mradu grounding it. The greater the offering the more likely will it be for the Strigoi Morte to manifest and return pure and refined astral energies. Smaller offerings are not as effective since the entire process of communion takes energy to function. Continue the process of releasing the prana, even if it means to the point exhaustion or experiencing extreme discomfort, for this must continue until the Strigoi Vii manifest and accept the offering. Heed this warning, be careful about your own health, as this process is strenuous and those with health problems may have negative results. This ritual is the most basic form of interaction with the Strigoi Morte and is an experience which will result in Zhep’r (becoming, transformation and metamorphosis) of the Strigoi Vii. Actual initiation to the First Mystery cannot be accomplished without a successful communion. The Strigoi Morte will not manifest and receive the Offering if someone who is Sanguine is present, as they are not deemed worthy of their Gift. Here is where the real nightside activities and intense experiences begin. If the Strigoi Morte have responded to the invitation and accepted the offering, they will show signals of their presence through manifestation at this point and in return send direct and refined energy back from the Rakasha. This is an honor and sign one is truly of the Family. Only those truly worthy will be privileged to have a return flow, in which an immense reverse flow of energy directly through the mirror and into your etheric (energy) body. 61

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira There are many signals of a successful communion which vary from person to person and the actual factors of success. These are broken down into several categories which include personal, group, tangible and after. Personal results are those which can only be experienced by the individual and most often happen in solitaire workings. The most common is the feeling of a tugging sensation on the solar plexus (the chakra right above the belly button), feeling like you have been touched, pins and needle like sensations in the fingertips, a ringing in the ears, a whisper of your name or a plethora of heightened emotions such as love, joy or fear. These will not be experienced directly; they will most likely feel like memories of these experiences have been implanted. Group results are similar however are experienced shared by more than one person involved. These include feelings of a slight and chilly breeze, sparks of light as if one looked at the sun and then went into a dark room, shadowy phantasm-like figures in the mirror. The more intense the experiences and results, the more the offering has been accepted.

VI. The Recoiling While the Ancients are accepting the Offering they will be evaluating each individual and choosing the best candidates, if any, to give their blessing of their own highly refined prana known as the Recoiling. The Recoiling of energy can be great or small, if it does occur for the Strigoi Morte may not be satisfied. The simple experience of being in the direct presence of their manifestation is enough to potentially be an experience in Zhep’r for any Strigoi Vii present. This Recoil of energies will be of fresh infusion of pure energy from the ethereal veins of the Ancients into your almost emptied shell. The results will range from feeling invigorated, refreshed and charged with energy of a seemingly divine sort to an arousal in which it is not uncommon for females to have experiences similar to a full body organism.

VII. The Farewell Upon the completion of the Communion the Ancients should be honored as they depart and gratitude for their presence should be shown. The ritual leader should raise the chalice towards the portal and state in a firm and powerful voice: “I raise this chalice to you Oh Ancients, I drink in remembrance of the eternal Pakt, my true Family and my true Blood! Within love and loyalty, for I am Strigoi Vii, the living vampyre! Hail Elorath…. Look deep into the mirror back in your eyes, sip from the chalice, and if in a group ritual let the presiding members drink next and then the congregation. Clap your hands twice or ring a bell three times or use a gone to signify the closure.

VIII. Return to the Maiiah With the athame or sword point to the tip of the blade into the mirror facing west and then respectively towards the north, then east and followed to the south. Then put out 62

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira all flames and in the absolute darkness with sincerity pronounce: “So now it is done!!” followed by clapping of the hands or ringing a bell twice to clear the air. Then turn on the lights and begin the celebration.

IX. Celebration Once the ritual is completed and everyone has returned to the Maiiah through celebration, dance, drink, feast, wild parties, dancing and making marry. This will restore and balance everyone back into the dayside.

Summation This ritual should yield results only to those who are truly Strigoi Vii and is best done at least once a week in a solitary format and if one can find a quorum or organize on at once a month. Remember do this alone and get results first before working with others, otherwise the Strigoi Morte will not heed the callings. This is only a prototype “beta” version of the Mass which is being distributed amongst the allies, priests and acolytes of the Synod. It will be printed in the final release of the Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira due for release on the Bast Festival (Lammas) in August 2006. Report your experiences, findings, suggestions and results of the Sanguine Mass and meet others if you are interested in group quorum at the Current of Elorath website which can be found at http://www.StrigoiVii.org or e-mail any ideas to the [email protected], we would love to hear from you. Your Zhep’r is up to you and only through personal application and effort will you avoid the Second Death and grasp the Chalice of Immortality. The Sanguine Mass has now concluded….

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EGRAGORES Egragore is term original meant in occult terminology “watcher” and were elementals built from the collective spiritual consciousness and group mind which manifested specific characteristics. Each egragore has their own characteristics, personality traits, karma, dharma (destiny/function) will and are dependant on the energies / life-force / will power of sacrifices and offerings provided for them by both the Strigoi Vii and Strigoi Morte. Dealing with egragores is something which should be done with respect and only by those who know how to interact with them. Forgetting an egragore is something which is created by the collective of individuals will bring someone from the Left Hand Path (working with egragores) to the Right Hand Path (god worship)There are many non Sanguinarium egragores and come into existence, for example a country will have an egragore or the egragore of an artist are what people call “impressions”. Often egragores are absorbed by newer ones and can die when they are no longer fed. Egragores solely exist on the astral (dreams, emotions, imagination and thoughts) level of our reality and thus can be invoked and evoked. The Commonality – Elorath is the “collective consciousness” which equals the collective Dragons of the Family and the Sanguinarium. All Strigoi Vii carry the Current of Elorath and as such are considered apart of the “Blood” of the Family. The Duality – represents the duality of male and female energies. Kalistree equates to the Dragon Goddess Within and the feminine characteristics of the Strigoi Vii. Mithu represents the masculine characteristics of the Dragon God Within. The Triumvirate – the triad of how we interact with energy. Ramkht - is the priest, visionary and scholar. Based on the duality of masculine and feminine energies. Kitra – is the councilor, weaver and amplifier charged with flowing energy. Feminine energy. Mradu – is the warrior, guardian, grounder and protector. Masculine energy.

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STRIGOI VII WEDDINGS Strigoi Vii traditional weddings, known as the Blood & Roses do not have a presiding priest as would other common spiritual paradigms. In-fact the two (or more) individuals preside their own wedding by calling forth their own quorum, performing the ritual and making their own vows and the exchange of rings. Unlike in the United States, many countries in Europe there is a separation of church and state, thus even if you have a priest or minister preside your wedding, you still have to go to town hall to get the license from a justice of the peace. The same approach is taken by Strigoi Vii worldwide, especially in the United States where legally recognized ministers can often perform legal weddings. It is customary to have a witness who is a magister of the Synod to be present during the ceremony, as well as the actual wedding taking place within a Sanguine Mass. The presence of the Ancients is a blessing as they should be invited as guests as well, as would in any standard Sanguine Mass. The exception here is that only Strigoi Vii and a Black Swan can be within the Inner Sanctum, while guests who are not Family should remain without. The Blood & Roses takes also from the traditional pagan Hand fasting in that there are three levels of matrimony. The first is known as the First Ring, in which is more of a more formal engagement that lasts for a year and a day. At the end of the duration of the First Ring marriage it is either renewed, elevated to the next ring or allowed to expire and both parties go on their own ways. If elevated to the Second Ring, this is most often when the couple will formalize the marriage legally with a justice of the peace. Here more intense vows are made and the marriage duration is 7 years. Again on the seventh anniversary of the Second Ring, it can be renewed, elevated to the third ring or repeated. If moving to the Third Ring, the marriage vows are for 21 years and should be renewed even beyond the Second Death. During the ceremony a traditional Sanguine Mass is called forth, this is one of the only exceptions when Black Swans may be present during the ceremony, as the Strigoi Morte will more than happily come to such a party. The best time to do the Blood & Roses is during one of the Festivals, however any waning moon will do. After the Re-coiling of energies from the Strigoi Morte is when the vows and rings are exchanged. The parties involved should define the terms of their relationship, express their love and reasons for joining together in matrimony. For those Strigoi Vii who have relatives who are not in attune or can understand our Mysteries, it is traditional to have two weddings, one Dayside and one Nightside. This allows for no compromising, as the Strigoi Vii being able to shift between paradigms easily allows accommodation and celebration with both sides of the Strigoi Vii’s family. Those who wish to inquire the Synod to send a witness magister can do so by emailing the Synod at [email protected] . Compensation usually requires travel expenses, room and board, food, free drinks and a sushi or the equivalent depending on the diet of the magister.

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The vampyric calendar of the Sanguinarium is the one endorsed by the Synod and is most commonly used within the vampyre / vampire subculture. Traditionally this is a lunar calendar (Sundown to Sundown), beginning with the Endless Night Festival (Halloween) being the “New Years.” Thus, the vampyre year starts on November 1st as New Years day and ending on October 31 st. There are six major “holidays” endorsed by other than the Endless Night Festival include the longest night of the year, the Night of Immortal Stars (Yule, December 21 st ), the Crimson Festival on Valentine’s Day (February 14 th ), the Dragon Festival on May Eve (April 30th ), the Maiiah Festival on the Summer Solstice (June 21 st ) and of course the Bast Festival on Lammas (August 1 st ). There are also years of the “Age of the Sanguinarium” and S.Y. for “Sanguinarium Year”, which actually began on November 6th 1992, however is observed by the Synod on November 1st. ) This is when the Sanguinarium began as the Vampyre Connection (VC), with a small collection of fangsmiths, vampyres, and what later became known as black swans. The details of this event are kept in secrecy; however this network eventually became known as the Sanguinarium and first took hold in New York City around the beginning of 1996 eventually coming under the current name later that year. The Synod feels it is important for those in the community to know the Gotham perspective on the history of the Sanguinarium and the greater community. Remember, most of the events listed here took place or were heavily influenced by the Gotham Halo, which to this day remains the only full-time open vamp community in existence. This article is special, thanks to Father Sebastiaan, Lord Vlad and Sky, Sir Victor Magnus, Reverend Osiris, Reverend Black Raven, and countless others, all of whom live there and validated the experiences which they have been a part of from their perspective.

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Pre – Sanguinarium Before we get into the Sanguinarium we should go into the ancient history of metaphysical vampirism. From the 1960’s thru the first years of the Sanguinarium (until about 1996) there existed many newszines, Dracula fan clubs and only two public real vampyre organizations, the Order of the Vampyre (OV), an order in the Temple of Set (ToS) and the Temple of the Vampire (ToV) founded in 1989. In New York City (Gotham Halo) there were many solitaries, and those whom the Synod has dubbed the “Azralim”, many of whom where blood drinking covens adhering to various pagan traditions and philosophies. There was also Tony Sokol’s Vampyr Theatre. The vast majority of the vamp scene was so underground, consisting of events known as quabals, that it was impossible to find. Rumors of Blood Bars, secret rituals and dark covens circulated over the years, however are nearly impossible to substantiate.

S.Y. I - November 1st, 1992 - October 31st 1993 - Year of Dreams The Sanguinarium had its beginnings technically with a small quorum of fangsmiths, vampyres and black swans (not called that today) at a Vampire: the Masquerade LARP outside New York City. In this era the only places for vamps to meet and find each other were at these Vampire games (which provided excellent cover and neutral meeting grounds), in newsletters through the snail mail as and in the small number of Gothic clubs which existed at the time. This event is technically the unwilling founding of what would be eventually known as the Sanguinarium, and what we can tell you is that Father Sebastiaan was present. Here, a dream of a united vampyre / vampire nation was conceptualized and by accident initiated. S.Y. II - November 1st, 1993 - October 31st 1994 - Year of Lucid Dreams In this year what must be realized is that the vampyre scene is New York City, which remains to the time of this writing the only full-scale open and in person vamp community besides Halloween in New Orleans. What the Synod would eventually dub the “Azralim” exist in meetings such as Tony Sokol’s Vampyr Theatre, at the Bank and Limelight nightclubs and through Steven Lessing’s secret phone line the Vampire Access Line (VAL). At this time in Ohio, Michelle Belanger is working on the International Vampire Society (IVS) and writes the first draft of her Codex. Lady DarqRose from Florida is going public about her true nature and many other pioneers are starting to become established and “Come out of the Coffin.” There is a quabal of ronin who interact at the Chiller Horror Convention in New Jersey that Halloween. Myke Hideous joins the Sanguinarium and will later that year obtain his first pair of fangs. S.Y. III - November 1st, 1994 - October 31st, 1995 - Year of Dark Angels Father Sebastiaan learns how to make fangs through inspiration from Gregger of Strangeblades while employing the skills he learned for working as a part time dental tech for a periodontist in New Jersey. August of this year, Sabretooth is founded at the Sterling Forrest Renaissance Faire, Tuxedo, NY, where the fangsmith Dnash and Sebastiaan first meet. Viola Johnston begins working on her book Dhampir: Childe of 67

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira the Blood for release in 1996. Additionally, this is the year many people come together for the first time for vampyre events in NYC hosted by the VAL (Vampire Access Line). The largest collection of vampyres who are still underground, have a large quorum at Anne Rice’s Memnoch Ball at Saint Elisabeth’s, formally an orphanage in New Orleans.

S.Y. IV - November 1st, 1995 - October 31st, 1996 - Year of Births The vampyre scene for the first time surfaced in New York City on Saturday, January 29th, The Vampyre Ball I, at The Bank nightclub in NYC on Essex and Houston Streets. Voltaire and the Empire Hideous perform, DJ Ian Fford debuts as “Erebus”, however he never kept this name. April 19th, marks The Vampyre Ball II, at Coney Island High on Saint Mark’s place. This is the first NYC appearance by The Cruxshadows and when Reverend Osiris who would eventually found the Coven Organization came into the fold. Right around the disappearance Village Voice reporter Susan Walsh (Katherine Ramsland later wrote the book Piercing the Darkness about her) disappeared researching the vampyre covens in the East Village, the Vampyre Ball III, at Limelight, 660 6th Avenue took place. 1500 people gather on a Tuesday night for 5 bands (including Empire Hideous, Vasaria, Phantasm, etc.) with DJs Cry Wolf, Ian Fford and others. This year also sees the first meeting of Father Sebastiaan and Father Vincent at the Vault nightclub’s Heaven and Hell party. Vincent begins his fang apprenticeship and Cub of House/Clan of Lilith (Childe of Viola Johnston) brings the first copy of Dhampir: Childe of Blood and presents it to Father Sebastiaan at the Heaven & Hell party through her childe Cub. Jack Dean Stauss, opens the Fang Club in Los Angeles and in September 1996, the MOTHER nightclub opens its doors. The year also marks the year of the birth of Clan Sabretooth as a club for the fang clients of Father Sebastiaan and Father Vincent.

S.Y. V - November 1st, 1996 - October 31st, 1997 - Year of the Black Veil Named after a little known historic event, Chi Chi Valenti of MOTHER, invited Sebastiaan to host the event Long Black Veil & the Vampyre Lounge at MOTHER, thus giving this year the appropriate title of “Year of the Black Veil.” March 1997, Long Black Veil & the Vampyre Lounge is held for the first time on the second Wednesday of the month. That November the birth of the Court of Gotham is held as a small cocktail party outside of Long Black Veil on the 1st Sunday of each month at the Korova Milk Bar. This July of 1997, D’Drennan delivers the first Coven Ankh (now known as the Legacy ankh). In August at the 100th Anniversary of Dracula Conference in Los Angeles, it is presented by Darenzia, Sebastiaan and Lucianna to Raymond T. McNally, author of In Search of Dracula.

S.Y. VI - November 1st, 1997 - October 31st, 1998 - Year of the Endless Nights December 1997, at the Sabretooth, Inc. Company X-mas party, Delchi is granted the official top-hat as Regent of the Court of Gotham. Halloween of this year, the first annual Endless Night Festival is held by the Sabretooth production team as an alternative party to the Anne Rice Coven Ball. Publication of the Vampyre Almanac 68

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira 1998-9 Edition (10,000 copies where sold through Hot Topic) and the creation of the Sanguinarium Ankh as a variant by D’Drennan. The founding of the Court of Lightning Bay in Tampa, Florida. This year also is the date of the publishing of Katherine Ramsland’s book Piercing the Darkness, Undercover with Vampires in America Today. It is established to continue the explorations of Susan Walsh who disappeared the previous year, no other book to date has as greatly gone into depth on the vampyre community.

S.Y. VII - November 1st, 1998 - October 31st, 1999 - Year of Zealots Named by the Synod for the Zealots of the vampyre community who move forward and are seriously dedicated to the movement. This year, Clan Sabretooth moves the Endless Night to New York, due to better resources and the opportunity to host the event on Halloween night at MOTHER. House Kheperu formally organizes within the Sanguinarium community and is established in Cleveland Ohio by Michelle Belanger through formal charter of the Synod. S.Y. VIII - November 1st, 1999 - October 31st, 2000 - Year of Transformations A major year of transformations, especially with the formal breakup of Clan Sabretooth in New York City. The Coven Ankh is formally deconsecrated the Legacy Ankh, for the legacy of over 40 households which spawn off of Sabretooth. Anther hit to the Gotham community takes place when MOTHER formally closes its doors on the last Tuesday of June in the mortal year of 2000. LBV continues for another year at a club called True, and many of the promoters there re-establish the vampyre and fetish communities there. The Black Veil goes through formalization and is written in 13 tenets as an in-writing code of ethics for the vamp community. S.Y. IX - November 1st, 2000 - October 31st, 2001 - Year of the Phoenix The Year of the Phoenix was named by the Synod for the rebirth of many movements within the vampyre / vampire community. The Endless Night Festival returned to New Orleans at the House of Blues on October 29th, 2000. This was also the year of the release of the Synod’s most successful edition of the Vampyre Almanac, Millennium Edition, and through Sanguinarium Press (now Rakasha Press) the Synod published Michelle Belanger’s first edition of the Vampyre Codex. Master Metal Manipulator D’Drennan made a surprising step in challenging long time Regent Delchi in the Court of Gotham. CoG (Court of Gotham) was disbanded and those members soon became the Society Nocturnus of Gotham. The Court of the Iron Garden is established in New Jersey with Lord Vamp as Regent. In the mundane world this year also marked major changes with 9-11 taking place in Gotham Halo (New York City) and the election of George W. Bush over former vice president Al Gore.

S.Y. X - November 1st, 2001 - October 31st, 2002 - Year of Dark Horizons Named “The Year of Dark Horizons” for several events that took place. In Gotham, Father Sebastiaan founded Society Lazarus as a vampyric gathering in New York as an alternative to the Society Nocturnus of Gotham. Since the traditional Valentine’s Ball did not happen, this Lazarus made its first debut. Regent Lecuitus was the first host of the organization. Gabrielle of House of Saint Eve was appointed by Sebastiaan as the interim regent and later Christian Blood took the reins through a proper election. In 69

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira June of that year Sebastiaan resigned to move on to other projects and the Lazarus Council continued to evolve Lazarus into a proper Court. In the confines of the Court of Lazarus the House of the Dreaming was established and a charter was given by the Synod.

S.Y. XI - November 1st, 2002 - October 31st, 2003 - The Birth of Second Age The “Birth of the Second Age” is a metaphorical expression for the second decade of the Sanguinarium’s existence. Here, members of the Sanguinarium, Bloodlines and the Vampire Church, as well as many other vamp groups met at the 2002 Endless Night Festival and collectively provided input on a revised Black Veil. In November of 2002 Father Sebastiaan relocated to Amsterdam (Xion) from New York City (Gotham). S.Y. XII - November 1st, 2003 - October 31st, 2004 - The Dance of Lost Souls The Dance of Souls is quite interesting, as it was the first major TV appearance of a vamp with Don Henrie in the spring 2004 release of Mad Mad House on the SciFi Channel. V the first complete tomb of the Strigoi Vii and the predecessor to the Sanguinomicon is published in a limited print run of 3,000 copies. Michelle Belanger’s Vampire Codex is contracted by Sam Weiser / Red Wheel for widespread publication. S.Y. XIII - November 1st, 2004 - October 31st, 2005 The Year of Violet Tears Unlike any year in the history of the Sanguinarium, SY XIII has been the most trying. Separations of long lost alliances, the passing of Lord D’Drennan creator of the Legacy Ankh and other members of the community, the Endless Night Festival moving to Gotham due to hurricane Katrina and a plethora of other tragedies. So, the Synod has consecrated this year the “Year of Violet Eyes” after the pair of contact lenses Lord D’Drennan wore, to remind us that the eyes are the gateway to the higher self and Dragon Within. Saint Eve, Rexxx Black and Father Sebastiaan formally organize the memorial of Lord D’Drennan with the blessings of his dayside Family on Sunday February 28 th. Taking place at Chetty Red on 23 rd St., near Madison, this is the largest collection of vampyre households and factions in New York history, with over 350 people in attendance. Black Swans, elders, the excommunicated and all join in a formal neutral sanctum of neutrality.

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Strigoi Vii Lexicon V1.0 (abridged and edited by Madame X) The Synod endorsed terms are here abbreviated in conformance to the “language” parameters of the Strigoi Vii known as the Sanguinarium. These terms may not be in common use outside of the Sanguinarium community. Adept – individual recognized as a true Elder who can bare a purple stone on their ankh. This level is reached upon personally validating and achieving communion with the Strigoi Morte, reaching the Twilight Condition, feeling the awakening of the Dragon and solving the third mystery. See also Kharrus. Ambient Energy – excess bio-magnetic energy which is released like vapor into the subtle reality; this can be perceived in clouds above and surrounding large congregations of people. Ancients – original and most elder Strigoi Morte. Ascension – completing one mystery and advancing in rank, level or degree. Astral – less tangible layer of the subtle reality existing just beyond the ethereal; here lie dreams, emotions, imagination, thought patters and magick. Astral Projection – process where the astral-self travels beyond the limits of the physical or ethereal reality into the astral plane. Aura – etheric layer of bio-magnetic energy which extends beyond the physical body like a halo. Azralim – old guard Vampyres who resided in the Gotham Halo before the rise of the Sanguinarium. Bast Festival – August 1st celebration of our primal nature, fertility, and shape shifting abilities through a simulated hunt often in the woods with a drum circle and bonfire. Barrier Between Worlds (BBW) or the “Barrier” – layer of separation between the physical world and the subtle reality that we cross during ritual. This barrier is narrower at certain times of the year and in specific locations which are haunted. Black Veil –common sense ethics and agreements, which provide us with absolute freedom of movement within the mundane world. See also The Pacts of the Strigoi vii Covenant. Black Swan – individual who is a friend, lover, donor, or a Dayside member of our birth family. Blood & Roses – equivalent of a hand-fasting or wedding ceremony. 72

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Dayside – tangible mundane reality including: job, family, school, and other similar responsibilities. Dragon – Higher Self. Dragon Festival – May Eve celebration of our higher self and the fire of creation. Chakras – energy centers in specific areas of the body connected by a network of energy channels and pathways acting as energetic resonance nodes, and receptors. Chi – Chinese term for subtle life force. See also prana . Dharma – individual’s true will, destiny, sacred duty or life purpose. If we follow our dharma, we get good karma, but if we go against it we will receive negative karma. Duality – refers to the equilibrium of the masculine and feminine Egragores of Kalistree and Mithu. It also refers to the duality in all things within existence, light and dark, up and down, right and left, etc. Crimson Festival – February 14th celebration of past, future and present loves and the pleasures of life. Commonality – another term for the singleness of Elorath. Communion – feeding, or cycling life-force, to fuel subtle powers and exchange with the Strigoi Morte. Egragore – are group minds and souls generated through the collective actions of the current of Elorath. There are three levels of Egragores within Strigoi Vii including Elorath the Commonality, Mithu and Kalistree the Duality and Kitra, Mradu and Ramkht the Triumvirate. Elder – Individual respected for their wisdom, experience and accomplishments; who has been active in our community for an extended period of time. Ethereal – just beyond the physical plane, it is the first layer of the subtle reality completely comprised of energy. Ethereal Body – the energetic layer of the body that includes the aura, chakras, and prana. Elorath – the commonality of all Strigoi Vii and subconscious spiritual result of the Family, best described as an egragore or the commonality of our will, group mind, group soul and karma. Elorath cannot be given any characteristics as it is a diverse energy.

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Endless Night Festival – October 31st celebration of the New Year through a traditional pilgrimage to a grand gathering in New Orleans, LA hosted by the Sanguinarium and its many affiliates. Familiar – spirit helper or physical animal which has entered a pact with a magical individual. First Death – when the physical body has ceased and when the ethereal/subtle body separates from it. Gaja – vampyre who is solely based on fashion and philosophy and has not fully embraced the Nightside. Glamour – aesthetics, imagery, or behavior from folklore, Hollywood, myth or legend that while being illusions enhance the “Vampyric Presence”. Gnosis – personal experience of spiritual truth. Halo – geographic designation, usually metropolitan areas, which have substantial activity of Strigoi Vii. Immortal Stars Festival – December 21st celebration of the longest night of the year when the Barrier between Worlds is thinnest. Ipissimus – graduates from the Inner Mysteries often acting as advisors. Kalmae – individual recognized as an Adult who can bare a red stone on their ankh. This level is reached upon applying and practicing Strigoi Vii philosophies in their personal lives, opening of the “Vampyre Eye”, personally validating existence of the Rakasha and solving the Second Mystery . Kalistree – the feminine Egragore of the Strigoi Vii. Kitra – apart of the Triumvirate of egragores who represents the concept of weaving, storing and amplifying energy. Most often drawn to feminine and matriarchal energies those drawn to Kitra as a patron often are healers, altars in ritual, courtesans, councilors, entertainers and performers. Kharrus – Elder of Strigoi Vii. Also see Strigoi Vii Adept. Legacy – a longstanding set of traditions or beliefs bequeathed to future generations of the Family. Links – etheric connections that can be strengthened through continuous work or dissipate over time. Magick – application of individual will to cause changes in reality. Term originally coined by Aleister Crowley to designate slight of hand magic from actual occult magick. 74

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Magister – Individuals who have moved beyond the Outer Mysteries into the Inner Mysteries through Initiation into the secrets of the Synod. Magisters often witness bonding and initiation ceremonies and have their own set of beliefs. Maiiah – the sensory reality of the five senses, from the Hindu word Maya meaning “Illusion.” See also Dayside. Maiiah Festival – June 21st celebration of the flesh and the realities of the mundane world by creating a magickal sigil to focus on our materialistic goals for the next the year and a day. Mal’occhio – Visual Communion. Although the term means “Evil Eye” and is used in many cultures to represent a curse. Mithu – the masculine egragore of the Sanguinarium and embodying the Dragon God. The duality of Kalistree. Mradu – is the guardian and warrior of the Triumvirate of egragores. Mostly masculine in energy those who are on the road of the Mradu often demonstrate superior physical prowess or size, with skills akin to those of warriors, martial artists, athletes, and protectors. Mysteries – philosophical and spiritual equations that when solved bring Gnosis which produce tangible results. There are “Outer Mysteries” which are more public and the “Inner Mysteries” open only to those of the Synod. See also Ascension . Mundane – individuals who are not or cannot awaken; the vast majority of the mainstream world. New Age - modern spin off of the esoteric and occult communities which deals with trying to be at peace with the mundane world focusing exclusively on positive happy energy. Nightside – what lies beyond the mundane physical world, including subtle reality, Ritual, Strigoi Morte, and Dragon work. See also Rakasha. Paradigm – school of thought or system of beliefs, often manifesting as a religion or philosophy. Since we employ “Belief as a tool and are bound to none” we can employ any paradigm as needed. Prana – Sanskrit term for “vital life-force”. t is the subtle energy which comes in various frequencies from all living beings equivalent of ethereal blood. See also Chi . Prospectii – individuals who are being considered and while showing potential, initiative and action have not yet solved any of our Mysteries. Also see Seeker. Quorum – gathering for ritual, socialization, study and the pursuit of special interests. See also Quabal . 75

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Rakasha – subtle layers of reality including the etheric, the astral and the spiritual, which lie beyond the Maiiah. Only awakened individuals can perceive this level of reality. See also Nightside. Ramkht – is the scholar, magician and visionary of the Triumvirate of Egragores and is at the apex of duality between masculine and feminine characteristics. Those who follow the road of Ramkht often demonstrate talent in skills akin to priests, scholars, leaders, ritual designers Psychic vampire – vampires that have been described by Anton Zander LeVay and by Dion Fortune as parasitic individuals who are usually not aware of their nature and emotionally drain others. In recent days many have tried to re-coin the term psychic vampire to make it a more positive meaning, i.e.: a needful individual who has an energy deficiency such as a damaged chakra or ethereal body. Reiki – originating in Japan, this is a form of energy work which involves moving prana around the ethereal body and various healing techniques to increase the well being of the self. Reincarnation – the human theory of souls which have past the Second Death at one point or another moving into a new empty infant. Strigoi Vii have a common and different perspective on this which is a deeper mystery. Ritual – any process of actions that generate movement in the ethereal and astral plane to affect reality and achieve a specific result; i.e.: performing magick. Sanctum – a sacred space in which all Strigoi Vii, Black Swans and other awakened are welcomed. Sanctums can be established in bars, nightclubs, private homes, etc. The Inner Sanctum is the back room of such a place or the equivalent of a temple for a Strigoi Vii. Sanguinarium – 1) A member of the Family or of like mind to the Strigoi Vii perspective. 2) The Family of Elorath 3) Community of the Strigoi Vii. Sanguine – A blood drinking vampire. Sanguinomicon – a series of books which contain the Scrolls of Elorath, published by the Synod. There is one book for each of the Mysteries. Sanguine Mass – the central Strigoi Vii ritual; a mixture of séance, divination and exchange of energies. The harvested life-force is offered to the Ancients, once the gift is accepted they will return their higher energies to reinforce the ethereal body of the Strigoi Vii, thus better enhancing our ability to defeat the Second Death. Second Death – after the Death of the physical body it is the successive death of the Ethereal Body. This causes the astral and soul to be released back into the universe with their energies dispersed and re-intergraded. 76

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Scarlet Letter – the monthly newsletter published by the Synod. Shape-Shifting – the skill and or talent of shaping the etheric body into that of animals or other forms such as mist. Subtle Body – the layers of the Self beyond the physical world, i.e.: ethereal, astral and spirit. Subtle Reality – the entire collective of the less dense layers of reality beyond the physical world. See also Rakasha Synod – an international order dedicated to the prosperity and preservation of Strigoi Vii Mysteries and the Sanguinarium. Founded in 1997, this order is comprised of those who have solved the Inner Mysteries who are charged with administrative duties. The Synod is governed by the Council of Nine and creates projects such as the Sanguinomicon, the Current of Elorath message boards and other resources for Strigoi Vii. Tantra – a Hindu and Indian method of empowerment through working energy, which in the West is generally perceived as a sexual acts form. Tendrils – portions of the etheric body which are very much like tentacles controlled to move out from the ethereal body to touch others at a distance. Throne – the seat of physical consciousness, just behind the eyes and between the temples. Twilight – a state of balance of the Nightside (spiritual life) and the Dayside (material and skeptical side). Unawakened – Individual who has the potential to see the subtle reality but is unaware of their nature. Strigoi Morte – those who have ascended beyond the need to exist in flesh alone through the preservation of the psyche and the self by preventing the Second Death. They are often addressed as the “Ancients”, “Ancestors” or “Disembodied.” Strigoi Vii – translated from Ancient Romanian to mean “Living Vampyre”, refers to the members of the Family who resonate with the Pact and are “Of the Blood.” Upper Astral – the less dense and more subtle layer of the astral realm. Vampire – spelling used to refer to the Hollywood, folklore and mythological vamps. Vampyre – alternate spelling of the word vampire to refer to the Strigoi Vii. Vital energy – life-force which resonates in all living beings. Also see prana. 77

Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira Will – focused intent to perform and achieve. Zhep’r – alternate spelling of Xeper to mean metamorphosis, transformation or becoming.

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THE STRIGOI VII ALPHABET By Rev & ShiShain

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Sanguinomicon: Liber Jahira SUGGESTED READING FOR JAHIRA

The following books are further reading for the initiate level student of Strigoi Vii. The Satanic Witch by Anton Zander LaVey, Ferrel House Publishing Liber Null & Psychonaut by Peter J. Caroll, by Weiser Books Liber Kaos & Psychonomicon by Peter J. Caroll, by Weiser Books The Book of Lies, A 21 Century Grimoire, by Disinformation The Satanic Bible by Anton Zander LaVey, Avon Books The Vampire Bible, by the Temple of the Vampire The New Occult Encyolcopedia, by John Michael Greer, Llewellyn Publishing MONSTERS, by John Michael Greer, Llewellyn Publishing The Psychic Vampire Codex, by Michelle Belanger, Weiser Books

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THE CURRENT OF ELORATH The official Synod endorsed Sanguinarium website & message board. http://www.strigoivii.org

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