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What is Source Mage?
Source Mage GNU/Linux is a source-based distribution of Linux. Software sources are always downloaded from the publisher's website, so you are always getting the latest versions of software packages (unlike other non-source-based distributions that usually ship with outdated packages). SMGL has many powerful features which set it apart from other distributions, such as self-healing and automatic dependencies.
What are the advantages of having a source based distribution as opposed to a conventional binary distribution?
Speed. Accuracy. Control. Power. Is that enough?
Basically binary distros have to provide "sensible defaults" which fits an average person's needs. However, some packages may not have what someone needs or has a superfluous feature that will be using up valuable disk space. Oh, and probably be slow. Someone can also increase the speed by compiling to their architecture and using compile options. Most binary distros go to an i386 assumption.
What is a Grimoire, and what do I cast from it?
A Grimoire contains "spells" that Source Mage uses. Each of these spells contains the instructions for downloading the source for, compiling, and installing a program. If you cast the name of a program (called a spell), Source Mage will download, configure, compile and install it for you.
For example, if you want to install the X Windows system, simply type:
cast xorg
and X-Windows will be downloaded and installed automatically.
How are the Source Mage components organized?
Source Mage The Sorcery Suite of Scripts The Codex stable branch test branch devel branch stable test z-rejected games hardened Well-tested and stable Undergoing testing The bleeding edge Stable main grimoire Testing main grimoire Non-free and/or non-source based programs Games Security-enhanced spells Different sorcery branches can be used with different grimoires. Different versions of the sorcery scripts can be mixed with different versions of the grimoire. This can be confusing for new users when they change their system to use devel sorcery, and see the test grimoire being downloaded at the next update. The scribe command is used for changing grimoires, and the sorcery command is used for changing sorcery branch version. 
Editor's Note: This sections needs revision (MCC 20060920)