The word "gris-gris" (pronounced gree- gree) looks French but is a Frenchified spelling of the Central African word gree-gree (or gri-gri). Gree-gree means fetish or charm, thus a gris-gris bag is a charm bag or talisman. The gris-gris became traditional in the American voodoo headquarters of New Orleans, where they were use for various things such as attracting money and love, stopping gossip, protecting the home, maintaining good health and achieving innumerable other ends.
I have been a practicing magician for over 17 years. My influences include, among other things:
Wicca
Shamanism
Druidism
Satanism
OTO, Crowley, and the
Golden Dawn
Buddhism and Tantra
Voudou
I currently follow Peter Carroll's teachings. He is a Chaos Magician involved with the IOT, or Illuminates of Thanateros. Thanateros is derived "from the gods of sex, Eros, and death, Thanatos".
I live in New Orleans.
It is traditional that you keep the bag away from other people. Do not let anyone touch it or see it unless specific directions on the particular bag instruct you to otherwise. Bags should be kept close to the user, such as in the pocket, wallet, or purse. They may also be placed on your altar. Banishing bags can be hidden close to the source of the problem. Some people also tie their bags around their necks but I personally do not do this. Each bag comes with specific instructions.
There are 11 styles to choose from. Note that the following photographs are examples only. Each cloth is different, as are the string ties & contents. Some will have beads tied with them, some will not. If you would like a specific item with your bag please specify and I will be happy to accomodate you (within reason of course!).
Each bag is handmade, and contains individual assortments of (3, 5 or 7 each, depending on bag):
herbs
flowers
metal bits
string
cloth
glass & mirror shards
ribbons
bones
Each bag is tied with 3, 5 or 7 knots and blessed with scented oil. Some are tied with beads.
The bags are only $11 each, not including shipping.
Last update 31Mar2006. All content and art created by Raven Creature ravencreature @ gmail.com