Of All the rituals one can participate in, the Great Rite is the most personal, and the most intimate. It is a working of power, energy exchange, and, to a certain degree, invocation. One must select the right partner to perform this ritual, preferably one's mate, because this forms a bond more intimate, more powerful, more complete than mere sexual activity. Therefore, one should not enter the ritual chamber lightly, for this can cause disastrous consequences, spiritual as well as emotional. The ideal couple is male/female, but can be adjusted for either male/male or female/female. The male or masculine partner represents the God, or masculine aspect of the Source. The female or feminine partner represents the Goddess, or feminine aspect. This rite is performed on Beltane, and is a fertility ritual, ensuring good fortune in situations where hard work reaps later benefits, such as farming, investments, or other long-term goals. Also, if a couple is trying to conceive, this would be the most magickally powerful night to do so. Preparation for this rite is the same as for any other, with one or two notable exceptions. Firstly, it involves another, and secondly, the couple ARE the magickal tools. As with any ritual, first the couple cleanses themselves, preferably in the same bath or shower, to allow them to begin joining energies by exploring each other, and becoming aro0used by each other. After the cleansing, choose an appropriate incense to burn, one that is appealing and that enhances the mood. Then lie with each other on the altar, which, for the purpose of this rite, will be a bed. As you lie there, caressing each other, feel yourself becoming the God/dess as you slowly become more aroused. Slowly come together, as you become infused with power and energies. This should be a slow, sensual coupling, as the God and Goddess, not just some random intercourse. As you approach climax, you will feel the energies coursing through you, into your partner, and back, at the joining of your bodies. When you climax, you should feel an immense surge of power and energy from the Source and from your partner, life energies being poured into you, the vessels. As you recover, the afterglow should be more intense, with your bodies almost crackling from the energies. Once you have recovered enough, close the circle as you see fit, then revel in the sensations. You have been granted an extraordinary gift, and would do well to enjoy it and use it wisely. Namaste.
