This article is written for all the novices and those who are just
starting out in the craft. It is for the young or old, inexperienced
or just curious. Many of you are serious about becoming Witches or
already have a little experience with witchcraft. Many people come
to me and ask me questions right off the silver screen. And some
come to me just to ask questions to dispel the myths of generations
of hear-say. First let me say that I am not a wrinkled old woman
with a hunched back and a wart in the middle of my nose. If you were
to meet me on the street, you may never realize that I am a witch or
a Wiccan. You may have your reserved ideas about what I should be.
The things that I do not do:
I do not worship satan but I respect the Christian idea of Satan as a
whole. I personally have never met the 'man' but should I, I will
be more than happy to invite him in for a cup of tea and get his take on
the world today. If you would like to know more about Saint
Lucifer, please check out both the section of Ancient Pathway that deals
with Satanism as a religion as well as the King James version of the
bible.
I do not sacrifice children to some dark god in the hopes of flying.
That myth is right out of the movies and requires an unbaptised male
youth. The thing that they fail to mention is that the Warlock in
that movie is the Son of Satan himself and would be indowed with the
gift of flight without the sacrifice.
I am not evil any more than you are. I am a human being, nothing
more, nothing less. I have the same faults, hopes and dreams as
other human beings. The only thing that is different is when I
kneel to pray, it is to a female spirit.
I do not ride a broomstick - The modern witch perfers a Kirby Vacume
cleaner.
I do not worship satan! (yes, i have put this in here TWICE to make the
point clear)
Many questions come right out of the movies. Don't get me wrong, I love
a good tale of old about the evil witch that seduces the young girl with
a shiny apple. She was much too cocky to begin with. WitchCraft is more
of a way of life than a religion. Though there are those that would
argue the point with me.
Let me point out that Magick is a very appealing idea,
especially to the young. It is the mythical draw to power. They are
drawn to the ability to become rich or beautiful or loved.
But all these things can be done easily without the use of some mythical
powers.
The most popular things that I am asked for is love and
money. If I could turn ever request for the ability to gain money or
love into money, I would myself be rich. But if that were the case, you
would think that all witches would be fighting Bill Gates for a home.
But that is not the way that things are.
The study of Witchcraft requires time and dedication.
There are no easy spells out there to get what you want out of life.
When I am asked for a spell of love, usually by a male,
I have the perfect spell in mind.
The Ancient Pathway all Purpose LOVE
spell to gain the desire of your heart.
First you obtain the offering in the form of candy
The you use a sweet fragrance flower of roses, usually by the
dozen
You do feed the soul with poetry and the mind with conversation
You embrace your desire and hold your parnter close
And use the ancient ritual of the dance to draw her in
The final part of the spell is the chant itself
I suggest the chant "I
love you"
Works most of the time.
Now when I will tell someone this "spell", they will
usually look at me as if I have grown a second head. But if you think
about it, it makes perfect sense. To do a spell, you need to focus your
mind. And that is exactly what this "ritual does"
What is Witchcraft?
Witchcraft is a way of life that is based on reverence
for the Earth and all its inhabitants and the ability and responsibility
to harness the forces of the Universe for one's own ends and for others.
It is spiritual and magickal, but it is also a part of the mundane world
in which we live. A true Witch follows the path of witchcraft every day,
in every act and thought. Many times, those that are not witches will
even teach their children small spells because their parents did the
same without ever knowing it. Remember .... Rain ... Rain... Go
away...Little.....etc.
I do need to point out that there is a fundamental
difference between Wicca and Witchcraft. It is a common misconception
that all Witches and Wiccans are the same thing. And many times, this
will be true. However, though many Wiccans practice the Craft of the
Wise (witchcraft), and call themselves "Witches", there are some very
basic differences. I know that this paragraph is repetition, but
it is very difficult for many to grasp due to modern assumption.
Wicca is a modern practice that started wtih Gerald
Gardner in the 1930s. It has been combined with a varity of mystical
traditions, European Folk lifestyles (Celtic) and the actual practice of
Witchcraft.
Witchcraft as a whole looks to traditions, history, arts
and sciences for its' base and builds from there. In different areas of
this website, you will find information on many different paths and many
different traditions. How do you find out which one is for you? I would
suggest you get out a crystal ball, toss some salt over your shoulder,
throw a black cat through a mirror while standing under a ladder and
then say "bloody Mary" three times while staring into the shards.
Or you could just read all the information and use the
greatest gift you have. The ability to choose.
What is Wicca?
WICCA (sometimes called Wicce, The Craft, or The Old Religion by its
practitioners) is an ancient religion of love for life and nature. Many
unlearned people assume that Wicca and Witchcraft are the same. Though,
many times, the two will cross lines into each other, they are for the
most part seperate beliefs that work together. Wicca is a following, and
Witchcraft is a practice.
In prehistoric times, people respected the great forces of Nature and
celebrated the cycles of the seasons and the moon. They saw divinity in
the sun and moon, in the Earth Herself, and in all life. The creative
energies of the universe were personified: feminine and masculine
principles became Goddesses and Gods. These were not semi-abstract,
superhuman figures set apart from Nature: they were embodied in earth
and sky, women and men, and even plants and animals. They were, for the
most part, an incarnation of nature itself.
This viewpoint is still central to present-day Wicca. To most
Wiccans, everything in Natures -- and all Goddesses and Gods -- are true
aspects of Deity. The aspects most often celebrated in the Craft,
however, are the Triple Goddess of the Moon (Who is Maiden, Mother, and
Crone) and the Horned God of the wilds. These have many names in various
cultures.
Wicca had its organized beginnings in Paleolithic times, co- existed
with other Pagan ("country") religions in Europe, and had a profound
influence on early Christianity. But in the medieval period, tremendous
persecution was directed against the Nature religions by the Roman
Church. Over a span of 300 years, millions of men and women and many
children were hanged, drowned or burned as accused "Witches." The most
famous of these would be the "Salem Witch Trials". The Church indicted
them for black magic and Satan worship, though in fact these were never
a part of the Old Religion. The indications that were used where marks
on the body, strange language, herbology and healing skills.
The Wiccan faith went underground, to be practiced in small, secret
groups called "covens." For the most part, it stayed hidden until very
recent times. Now scholars such as Margaret Murray and Gerald Gardner
have shed some light on the origins of the Craft, and new attitudes of
religious freedom have allowed covens in some areas to risk becoming
more open.
How do Wiccan folk practice their faith today? There is no central
authority or doctrine, and individual covens vary a great deal. But most
meet to celebrate on nights of the Full Moon, and at eight great
festivals or Sabbats throughout the year.
Though some practice alone or with only their families, many Wiccans
are organized into covens of three to thirteen members. Some even large
"churches" exist, but they are few and far between. Some are led by a
High Priestess or Priest, many by a Priestess/Priest team; others rotate
or share leadership. Some covens are highly structured and hierarchical,
while others may be informal. Often extensive training is required
before initiation, and coven membership is considered an important
commitment.
There are many branches or "traditions" of Wicca in the United States
and elsewhere, such as the Gardnerian, Alexandrian, Welsh Traditional,
Dianic, Faery, Seax-Wica and others. All adhere to a code of ethics.
None engage in the disreputable practices of some modern "cults," such
as isolating and brainwashing impressionable, lonely young people.
Genuine Wiccans welcome sisters and brothers. They prefer to be part of
a "family style unit" or brother/sisterhood. They never accept
disciples, followers or victims.
Coven meetings include ritual, celebration and magick (the "k" is
added to distinguish it from stage illusions or modern magic). Wiccan
magick is not, for the most part, a visable magick. It does not hold the
glamor of stage magic or the dark fantasy of old horror movies; it
operates in harmony with natural laws and is usually less spectacular --
though effective. Various techniques are used to heal people and
animals, seek guidance, or improve members' lives in specific ways.
Positive goals are sought: cursing and "evil spells" are repugnant to
practitioners of the Old Religion.
Wiccans tend to be strong supporters of environmental protection,
equal rights, global, peace and religious freedom, and sometimes magick
is used toward such goals.
Wiccan beliefs do not include such Judeo-Christian concepts as
original sin, vicarious atonement, divine judgment or bodily
resurrection. Craft folk believe in a beneficent universe, the laws of
karma and reincarnation, and divinity inherent in every human being and
all of Nature. Yet laughter and pleasure are part of their spiritual
tradition, and they enjoy singing, dancing, feasting, and love.
Wiccans tend to be individualists, and have no central holy book,
prophet, or church authority. They draw inspiration and insight from
science, and personal experience. Each practitioner keeps a personal
book or journal in which s/he records magickal "recipes," dreams,
invocations, songs, poetry and so on.
To most of the Craft, every religion has its own valuable perspective
on the nature of Deity and humanity's relationship to it: there is no
One True Faith. Rather, religious diversity is necessary in a world of
diverse societies and individuals. Because of this belief, Wiccan groups
do not actively recruit or proselytize: there is an assumption that
people who can benefit from the Wiccan way will "find their way home"
when the time is right. Despite the lack of evangelist zeal, many covens
are quite willing to talk with interested people, and even make efforts
to inform their communities about the beliefs and practices of Wicca. On
source of contact and information for Wiccan followings is
Ancientpathway.com. The site that you are on now.
An Overview of Wicca
Often Traditional Wiccans are asked to describe our religion and
beliefs for interested people, who may or may not have confused us with
other Pagan religions, with inversions of Christian/Islamic religions
like Satanism, or with purely magical traditions with no religious base.
There is a lot of flexibility in the ways that we describe ourselves,
and one characteristic of Wicca is a large degree of personal liberty to
practice as we please. Still, there is an outline that can be described
in general terms. Many traditions will depart from one particular or
another, but groups departing from all or most of these features are
probably non-Wiccan Traditions attempting to stretch or distort the
Wiccan name to cover what they want to do.
Mysteries and Initiation
Wicca is an Initiatory religion descended from the Ancient Mystery
Religions. This is NOT a new faith or following as is assumed by many
modern people who feel that the young people are simply searching for a
new way. A mystery religion is not like Catholicism where a Priest
is the contact point between the worshiper and the Deity, nor like
Protestantism where a sacred Book provides the contact and guidelines
for being with the divine. Rather a Mystery Religion is a religion of
personal experience and responsibility, in which each worshiper is
encouraged, taught and expected to develop an ongoing and positive
direct relationship with the Gods. In some followings, you are actually
your own God, and while this is not our personally following, it is very
enlightening for those that follow that path. The religion
is called a "Mystery" because such experiences are very hard to
communicate in words, and are usually distorted in the telling. You have
to have been there in person to appreciate what is meant. Near and
far-Eastern religions like Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism and Shinto are
probably Mystery traditions, but Wicca is very western in cultural
flavor and quite different than eastern religions in many ways.
It is quite impossible to properly describe a Wiccan ritual, but once
you have experienced one, you will understand quite well.
A Blend of Pagan Roots
Most Wiccan Traditions, have particular roots in the British Mystery
Traditions. This includes traditions of the Picts who lived before the
rise of Celtic consciousness, the early Celts, and some selected aspects
of Celtic Druidism. American Wicca is directly descended from British
Wicca, brought in the late 1950's by English and American Initiates of
Gardnerian, Alexandrian and Celtic Wicca. These traditions are a little
like the denominations in Christianity, but hopefully far more
harmonious.
While British Traditions are very strong in Wicca, or the Craft as it
is sometimes called, other Western Mystery traditions feature
prominently, including the ancient Greek Mysteries of Eleusis, Italian
Mysteries of Rome, Etruria and the general countryside, Mysteries of
Egypt and Persia before Islam, and various Babylonian, Assyrian and
other mid-eastern Mysteries that flourished before the political rise of
the advocates of "one god".
What's In a Name
Wicca, Witchecraft, and "The Craft" are used interchangeably at times
by many kinds of people. It is not fair to say that all Wiccans are
Witches though many are, and many of us believe we are the only people
entitled to the name. It is important to know that many people call
themselves witches who are not in the least Wiccan, and that Masons also
refer to themselves as "Craft", with good historical precedent.
Carefully question people on the particular things they do and believe
as part of their religion rather than relying on labels. Any real Wiccan
would welcome such honest inquiry. One point of interest is that I
can call myself a Ford Taurus, that does not mean that I am one.
Lables can change though time, and only by casting off these lables can
you gain a full understanding of the inner self. Personally,
though I am Enochian by upbringing and practice, I simply call myself "A
seeker". This has no base in faith or religion or lifestyle.
It is simply a lable that I have chosen for myself to enhance my
thoughts that I am always looking for proof within the chaos.
Traditions and Flavor
There are specific Wiccan beliefs and traditions, including worship
of an equal and mated Goddess and God who take many forms and have many
Names. Groups who worship only a Goddess or only a God are not
traditional Wicca however they may protest, although they may be
perfectly good Pagans of another sort. The Wiccan Goddess and God are
linked to nature, ordinary love and children -- Wicca is very life
affirming in flavor. It is also based in balance.
Darkness and Light, good and evil, yin and yang, ego and Id, God and
Goddess.
Modern psychology suggests the existence of the Ego, the ID and the
Superego. We all, as human animals, have love or our gods.
Wiccans in general, have nothing to do with other people's deities or
devils such as the existance of the Christian "one true God" or the
Devil, or the Muslim Allah or the Jewish Jehovah. We follow our
own gods, whether this is the Great Goddess / Horned God paradigm or a
bowl of pasta with "noodley appendages" (pastafarinism). To say
that our way is the ONLY true way is a statement of fatih, but it is
always a statement of Vanity and arrogance. Keep in mind that vanity is
a deadly sin in the Christian faith.
Modern Wicca is a faith of personal responsibiilty and growth.
When one is initiated though a coven or takes personal vows to their
following, they are taking on a personal obligation of singular
development of the self. It is a pact with yourself to seek out
knowledge that fits your paradigm and follow that path for enlightenment
and balance. This is where "true will" comes into the picture
which is, simply stated, the best possibility that we can conceive for
ourselves. This is, at best, a daunting task. To truely look
into the mirror and see yourself is often a hard task which requires
honesty, courage and a lot of hard work. The results however, can
be greatly rewarding.
In a general sense, Wicca is a joyous following. There are many
holidays and festivals as well as "meetings" of the minds in which
celebration tends to break out. Even death is a celebration within
most Wiccan followings. Most modern holidays currently on the
standard calendar decended from the roots of the Wiccan faith including
Christmas, May Day and Easter. Wicca is far from serious.
There are no overtones of failure leading to damnation. Dancing,
feasting and general marry making are all parts of the core of
celebrations.
Wiccan Ethics
Wiccans have ethics which are different in nature than most "one-god"
religions, which hand out a list of "do's and don'ts". We have a single
extremely powerful ethical principal which Initiates are responsible for
applying in specific situations according to their best judgment. That
principle is called the
Wiccan Rede (Old-English for rule) and reads:
"An (if) it harm none, do as ye Will"
Based on the earlier mention of "True Will", you will understand that
the Rede is far more complex than it sounds, and is quite different than
saying "Do whatever you want as long as nobody is hurt". Finding out
your Will is difficult sometimes, and figuring out what is harmful,
rather than just painful or unpleasant is not much easier.
You must take into account not only physical harm, but mental or
emtional harm to your fellows. This is, in many ways, a
constant battle for most within a Wiccan following.
Initiation into Wicca
In modern followings, it is assumed that people become Wiccan only by
initiation. And this may be true for organized Wiccan gatherings,
but is not, by far, the only path. You can form a good
relationship with the Gods and Goddesses though self study and
dedication. This point is argued though many Wiccan covens and
groups, but this is my personal belief. I will grant that having
like minded fellows to help you along the way can be helpful, but you
can gain the same results with that self dedication. In the modern
"coven" or gathering, the priest or priestess is used as a channel to
'open the way' to your path of study. This is preceeded by a
year and a day of preparation and study.
We of Ancient Pathway do not succome to the 'organized religion'
belief and understand that sometimes, the greatest journeys are ones
that are made alone. This is a personal choice and one that
you have to find and follow.
Traditional 'covens" hold women at the central place in which the
coven is headed by a high priestess. This is a woman of third
degree with, at the very least, three years and three days of dedication
and speciific training. The priest is optional, but for best
balance, even the sexes should be balanced within the circle. The
reason for the women power within the following is that the Goddess is
central to the Wiccan following and the priestess represents the
figurehead of the Goddess while in ritual.
One Religion at a Time
Theologians and philosophers have fought out this question though the
ages. "Can't i become Wiccan and still remain Christian, Jewish,
Muslim or Catholic?" My personal answer to this is "NO".
You can be a Witch and follow your chosen path, but since Wicca requires
self dedication to the Gods and Goddesses, this is against the belief of
the opposing faith. You can work spells and magicks, but
cannot be at the same time, both Wiccan and another faith.
Keep in mind that you can't really be a Christian Witch either.
Exodus 22:18 of the King James version of the Holy bible states "thou
shalt not suffer a Witch to live...". This being said, the moment
that you proclaim that you are a Christian Witch is the same moment that
you would be required by your Christian faith to commit suicide.
This is a deadly and unforgivable sin within the Christian faith.
In psychology, we would call this a paradox, but it is really just a
contradiction. And we all know that here are NO contradictions in
the bible.
Magick and Science
The magick (spelled with a trailing 'K" to distinguish it from stage
magic and illusion) is part of the Wiccan, Pagan and earth based
followings. We, as the human race, are thought to have many
abilitites that we have lost over the centuries. Similar to the
tail bone having been a real tail at one time, we have lost some of what
we are in our history. Magick is the search to regain these
abilities. Some are very timid like the manipluatoin of the world
around you though the magick of Chanting and some are aggressive such as
the mental manipulation of others around you to bend to your will.
(NOTE: HARM NONE! mental manipluation is the bending of the will
and breaches the ethics of witchcraft AND the Wiccan rede).
Magicks for the most part are used to bring natural forces to bear on
the world around you. Instead of casting a spell that says "give
me money" which may redirect money from another deserving source,
evaluate the sitaution and ask for what you are really looking for.
"my car broke down, I need food, I can't pay my rent". Magick to
resolve these issues would be in the form of bringing you, not the
money, but the way to resolve the problem. Same thing with love.
Don't ask "I want Molly to love me!". Ask the great goddess to
bring you one to complete and fulfill you. If that happens to be
Molly, then so be it.
The lives of the Priestess?
The modern world is uch different than the ancient world. In
times of old, the Pagan / Wiccan Priestesses and Priests were revered.
They lived in temples and wanted for very little. Those of faith
would care for their spiritual leaders. In modern times, you
may very easily be working next to a Priestess or Priest. You are
just as likely to find the as a leader of industry as you are as fry
cook at your local fast food joint. Though it is changing rapidly,
most places of employment frown on wearing of Pagan / Wiccan talismans,
though they do not have a problem with a cross, crucifix or star of
David.
The most powerful 'clergy' within the Pagan and Wiccan followings in
the modern day are many times unknown to all but their coven or group.
And while all Wiccans are considered Pagans, not all Pagans are Wiccan.
Wicca Frequently Asked Questions
For those that follow another path:
Let us not quarrel - There is enough of that in the
world let us be brotheren and seek the truth and balance together.
If you hold an opinion different from my own, discuss it
with me and find what is similar, not different.
Freedom of Religion means ANY religion.
This is the way of the Witch and the Wiccan. And the
only way for me to live.
What is a witch?
A witch above all worships the Triple Goddess and her Consort, The
Horned God, in one form or another and is a seeker of truths both common
and unseen. A Witch works Magick within a defined code of ethics
and will sacrifice their life before they break this code. A Witch
acknowledges and uses the male-female polarity in his/her rites and
consistently seeks that balance. A Witch takes total
responsibility for their actions, theirselves and their future.
Above all else, a Witch will not allow another come to harm through
their practice, even if in doing so, they must themselves, come to harm.
What is Wicca?
In the strictest sense, Wicca translates to "Wise". Though
there is an ancient following, the modern Wiccan uses their ability to
BEND, not BREAK the world around them. They are on a constant
search of the balance in all things.
What is Witchcraft?
This is question that has been and will be argued by poets, scholars
and fools until time comes to an end. Many believe that
Wicca and the practice of Witchcraft are the same, but as this page has
pointed out, they are different and seperate. Witchcraft is
the manipulation of the world around you for a specific reason.
That reason could be healing or helping, or in some rare cases, revenge
or harm. This does NOT follow the Witches Code of Ethics and is
frowned upon even with Witches' circles.
.
Do Witches worship Satan?
No, they do not. Though a Satanist (one who follows the dark
lord) may consider themselves a Witch, but terminology, they cannot
follow harm none in a Black Mass which requires a life force to gain the
favor of the Dark one. Witches and Wiccans for the most part
do not subscirbe to the beliefs of divine good or evil. Moreso,
they believe that the good or evil is within the heart or spirit of the
Witch. You can do just as much evil as good just as you can
with a car or a bottle of wine. Many people in modern time see the
"horned god" of Wicca as the devil of Christianity. This is not
the case as he is simply a carnal force of nature. Only modern
stigma relates carnal actions as 'evil'. After all, sexuality is a
carnal act, and without it, there would be no procreation.
Who do Witches worship?
This is difficult question to answer. This can vary
within a single community. Within my own community, there are
several dozen different "followings". The key is to work in harmony with
those around you. There is a often used (and frowned upon)
acronym of PETABE that is loosely meant to represent "The powers that
be". Each path is one of individual travel. We find our way as
best we can, sometimes with the help of our fellows, sometimes alone.
But always there is power around us to guide us. Some may call this
God/Goddess, some may use a name such as Odin or Baal (another name for
Satan in a positive light) and others may simply refer to it as "the
light". Wiccans for the most part, follow the teachings of the
Triple Goddess, which is Maiden, Mother and Crone. This represents the
triplicity of the feminine life as she travels though it. The maid(en)
grows, matures and learns, the Mother nurtures and the Crone educates.
Can a Witch also be Christian?
To a certain extent, you could be a Christian Witch, but this is
riddled with spiritual problems. As Christians by nature are
against the carnal or animalist side of the human condition, it may be
difficult to embrace that side of you while maintining a Christian
lifestyle. Again, to mention the Christian Bible verse of Exodus
22:18, the two paths are in conflict. But it does happen.
How do I become a witch?
As with anything, you can choose to be a witch or you are born to it.
These are choices that we make in our path through this life.
If you are born a Baptist, you can remain so though your life if you
choose to follow this path. As for TheAncient of Ancient
Pathway, he comes from 8 generations (verified) of Wiccans, Witches,
Sorcerers and Sages. But in his life, his Father was Baptist and
raised him until the age of 14 with no knowledge of the history of his
family. He had to make a choice when he discovered that history.
This site exists because he chose to follow the path of the Wiccan,
pagan and the ways of Enochian Magicks.
To become a Witch as a choice means that you are willing to seek out
your personal truth, study, take responsibilty of the self and the world
around you.
The Wiccan Rede
Bide ye wiccan laws you must, in perfect love and perfect
trust.
Live ye must and let to live, fairly take and fairly give.
Form the circle thrice about to keep unwelcome spirits out.
To bind your spell will every time, let the spell be spoke in
rhyme.
Soft of eye and light of touch, speak ye little, listen much.
Deosil go by the waxing moon, chanting out ye baleful tune.
When ye Lady's moon is new, kiss your hand to her times two.
When ye moon rides at her peak, then your heart's desire seek.
Heed the north winds mighty gale, lock the door and trim the
sail.
When the wind comes from the south, love will kiss thee on the
mouth.
When the wind blows from the east, expect the new and set the
feast.
When the wind blows from the west, Bardic words be at their
best!
Nine woods in the cauldron go, burn them fast and burn them
slow.
Elder be ye Lady's tree, burn it not or cursed ye'll be.
When the wheel begins to turn, soon ye Beltane fires will
burn.
When the wheel hath turned a Yule, light the log the Horned One
rules.
Heed ye flower, bush and tree, by the Lady blessed be.
Where the rippling waters go, cast a stone, the truth ye'll
know.
When ye have and hold a need, harken not to others greed.
With a fool no season spend, or be counted as his friend.
Merry meet and merry part, bright the cheeks and warm the
heart.
Mind ye threefold law ye should, three times bad and three times
good.
When misfortune is enow, wear the star upon thy brow.
True in love ye ever be, lest thy love be false to thee.
Bide ye wiccan laws you must, in perfect love and perfect
trust.
These eight words the rede fulfill;
An it harm none, do what ye will
- Author Unknown
This is a chant and tome that is used by most Pagans and Wiccans.
This is not a tenant for your life or a set of rules as the 10
commandmens are. This is a way to practice, learn and seek
knowledge.
The Rede is a way to live. If you follow the heart
of what is meant by the Wiccan Rede, you will find that good comes to
you and that life will be good. And even when it isn't, you will have
help with the bad that comes to you.
The Ethics of Witchcraft
In April 1974, the Council of American Witches adopted a set
of Principles which we personally believe in:
1) We practice rites to attune ourselves with the
natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the Moon and the
seasonal Quarters and Cross Quarters.
2) We recognize that our intelligence gives us a
unique responsibility toward our environment. We seek to live in harmony
with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfillment to life and
consciousness within an evolutionary concept.
3) We acknowledge a depth of power far greater that
that apparent to the average person. Because it it far greater than
ordinary it is sometimes called "supernatural", but we see it as lying
within that which is naturally potential to all.
4) We conceive of the Creative Power in the universe
as manifesting through polarity--as masculine and feminine--and that
this same Creative Power lies in all people, and functions through the
interaction of the masculine and feminine. We value neither above the
other, knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value sex as
pleasure, as the symbol and embodiment of life, and as one of the
sources of energies used in magickal practice and religious worship.
5) We recognize both outer worlds and inner, or
psychological, worlds sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the
Collective Unconscious, Inner Planes, etc.--and we see in the
inter-action of these two dimensions the basis for paranormal phenomena
and magickal exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other,
seeing both as necessary for our fulfillment.
6) We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy,
but do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater
knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given
of themselves in leadership.
7) We see religion, magick and wisdom in living as
being united in the way one views the world and lives within it--a world
view and philosophy of life which we identify as Witchcraft--the Wiccan
Way.
8) Calling oneself "Witch" does not make a
Witch--but neither does heredity itself, nor the collecting of titles,
degrees and initiations. A Witch seeks to control the forces within
him/herself that make life possible in order to live wisely and well
without harm to others and in harmony with Nature.
9) We believe in the affirmatino and fulfillment of
life in a continuation of evolution and development of consciousness
giving meaning to the Universe we know and our personal role within it.
10) Our only animosity towards Christianity, or
towards any other religion or philosophy of life, is to the extent that
its institutions have claimed to be 'the only way' and have sought to
deny freedom to others and to suppress other ways of religious practice
and belief.
11) As American Witches, we are not threatened by
debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the
legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned
with our present and future.
12) We do not accept the concept of absolute evil,
nor do we worship any entity known as 'Satan' or 'the Devil' as defined
by the Christian tradition. We do not seek power through the suffering
of others, no accept that personal benefit can be derived only by denial
to another.
13) We believe that we should seek within Nature
that which is contributory to our health and well-being.
Like everyone else
Pagan, Wiccan or Witch!
We do not wear our hearts on our sleeves or our
faith on our bodies, at least not for the most part.
You can not look at someone and say "That person
is a Witch" unless they choose to mark themselves (tatoos) or wear icons
that identify themselves. But this is something that is shared with all
faiths and followings. You can see a crucifix and know that a person is
a Christian, and you can see a pentagram and know that a person follows
the way of the witch.
However, more than likely, the person standing
next to you at the grocery store, or waiting in line for gas, could
easily be Wiccan. They are doctors, lawyers, and grocery store clerks.
The only real way to know...is to ask.
The Various Paths of the Wiccan Faith
NOTE: This information is NOT written by Ancient Pathway or
the Ancient. This text was offered by Richard Segwie of Willow
Street PA as a request to Ancient Pathway for inclusion of the various
paths of of the Wiccan faith. Though Richard has verified that
this is NOT plagerized and is an original work, thus far this
information has not been verified. If you are the author of this
information and would like proper credit to be offered, please email the
Ancient though our contact page. This information was added March
17 1996 to the Ancient Pathway Library. Richard was taken
from us a month later.
This information tries to convey, without prejudice or favor all
the differnt flavors that Wicca and Witchcraft have taken over the
years. As with everything that is important in yoru life, this is a
decision that will have to be made by you.
This is a look at the many varied traditions in the Wicca Family of
Faiths. Whilst there is, indeed, a large number of groups who profess
one set of tenants, or ideas; one soon begins to see why they may all be
lumped together as one Religion.
Obviously, to start, one must define Religion as it applies to these
groups of people. Next, a listing of some of the more popular
traditions, giving a basic description of each. Lastly, some comments on
the "cords which bind these groups together", i.e.. a discussion on the
underlying philosophies of the New Age Movement, Neo-Paganisms in
particular.
I. What is a Religion?
A dictionary definition of religion looks something like:
Religion, n.; An organized system of beliefs and/or
rituals, centering on a supernatural being or beings.
So far so good. If you understand that statement, you are a step up
alread. Good. I think we can all agree on definitions for "Beliefs" and
"Supernatural", so the only sub-definition will be "Ritual": any ordered
sequence of events or actions, including directed thoughts, especially
one that is repeated in the 'same' manner each time, and that is
designed to produce a predictable altered state of consciousness, within
which certain magical or religious results may be obtained.
Now, by using these definitions, the astute reader may realize that
one need not "believe" in anything in order to belong to a religion,
although most 'established' churches do require that one has conforming
beliefs in order to become 'accepted into' that Religion. One of the
beauties of the Pagan/NeoPagan/Wiccan Religion is that the majority of
the sects do not require one to have 'conforming' beliefs. One need not
believe in the God/dess in order to worship them, and this is the key to
being a New Age type religion.
New Age religions acknowledge that there are many paths to Godhood,
and that each person should find his/her own way. Thus, while there is
communication and discussion between the diverse ways of Wicca, there is
generally no cause for religious persecution or Holy Wars. Also, there
are very little 'missionary' type efforts, since there is no Prime
Directive stating that everyone who does not believe a certain piece of
dogma is wrong, and will burn in hell forever, unless saved, or made to
see the light.
Contrary to most religions, it is not the shared set of beliefs, or
similar dogma which holds the Wiccan religions together. Rather, it is
the attitudes of the people involved, and their common heritage which
provide the bonds of cooperation among the Pagan peoples. These points
of agreement shall be further addressed following a brief list of some
of the more popular Traditions, with a description of each.
Traditions/Branches/Gatherings/Sub-Groups/Interpretations/ect
[Keep in mind that this list is far from inclusive]
A. Alexandrian:
Started about the same time as Gardner's, this tradition is fairly
similar, with a little more emphasis upon ceremonial magick. Alex
Sanders founded this path in England during the 1960's. There are
numerous covens in both US and Europe.
B. British Traditionalist
Like Dianic, this is a sub-class and a mix of Celtic and Gardnerian
beliefs. Each traditionalist group is based upon the traditions,
literature, myth, and folktales of that particular
geographic/demographic area. This is evident in the names of the
God/dess used by individual groups. They are fairly structured in their
beliefs, and train through the degree processes.
C. Celtic Wicca
The use of a Celtic/Druidic pantheon and heavily stressing the elements,
nature and the Ancient Ones. They have a vast knowledge of and respect
for the healing and magickal qualities of plants and stones, flowers,
trees, elemental spirits, the little people, gnomes and faieries.
D. Caledonii (Hecatine)
Also known as Hecatine, this denomination is Scottish in origin, and
still preserves the unique festivals of the Scots.
E. Dianic:
This is more of a sub-class, rather than a particular tradition
pinpointed by Margaret Murray in 1921 in "The Witch-Cult in Western
Europe". There are several feminist traditions which are considered
dianic. This sub-class tends to emphasize the female aspect of the
Goddess, sometimes to the exclusion of the male God. Some feel that
these groups are rather reactionary and self limiting (this webmaster
agrees). Be that as it may, the Dianic covens tend to be more
politically active.
F. Eclectic
Basically, it indicates that the individual does not follow any
particular tradition, denomination, sect or magickal practice. They
learn and study from many magickal systems and apply to themselves what
appears to work best.
G. Frost School of Wicca:
Headed by Gavin and Yvonne Frost, this school is the largest
correspondence school of Witchcraft in the US. Numerous covens have
resulted from this school, although it is somewhat unconventional (if,
that is, anything dealing with Wicca could be called conventional). The
Frosts' views on Wicca as a religion do differ with the majority.. in
that they do not consider Wicca as "Pagan", but rather as Monotheistic.
H. Gardnerian:
Started by G. Gardner, in England, in the mid 1950's, this tradition
claims to have existed, in secret, since the Witch-Burnings began during
the Middle Ages. While there is some doubt as to whether or not it is as
old as it claims, there is no denying that the Gardnerian sect has been
one of the most influential of the traditions. In fact, many of the
groups which follow were started by people who had been introduced to
Paganism and the worship of the Lord and Lady as members of a Gardnerian
group.
A structured religion with definite hierarchy within each group
(known, as a coven), but little to no authority of one coven over
another. Within the coven, a matriarchy exists, with the High Priestess
generally being considered the leader (there are, of course, exceptions
to this, but these descriptions are, for the most part, only
generalizations based upon information gathered from many sources). The
typical Gardnerian view of the God/dess is that of a Dominant
three-faced Goddess (maiden, mother, and crone) with a male consort (who
has many names.. the Young Summer King, and the Old Winter King).
Ceremonies include a series of initiations into higher levels of the
craft, various holiday celebrations(based, of course, upon the "Wheel of
the Year" calendar of Feast days.
I. Pictish
Scottish Witchcraft that attunes itself to all aspects of nature:
animal, vegetable, and mineral. It is a solitary form of The Craft and
mainly magickal in nature with little religion
J. Seax-Wica (or Saxon) Wicca:
Started by Raymond Buckland, who was originally a leader in promoting
the Gardnerian tradition, as an alternative to the existing covens.
Unlike most traditions, which consider the coven group to be the normal
unit of division (i.e.. all ceremonies/rituals = group rites), the Seax
version has provision for lone witches (often referred to as
Solitaires). Another thing which sets this particular brand apart is its
non-reliance upon being properly initiated into the Wiccan community.
Many of the other groups require that new members be brought to existing
covens to be ceremonially initiated into that tradition, and that only
after years of study within the group is one ready to start a new coven.
The Seax tradition, recognizing that there may not be a friendly,
neighborhood coven, allows for self-initiation, and auto setup of a
coven.
K. Strega
Follows a tradition seated in Italy that began around 1353 with a woman
called Aradia. Of all the traditional Witches, this group appears to be
the smallest in number in The United States; however their teachings are
beautiful and should not be missed.
L. Teutonic (Nordic)
From ancient time the Teutons have been recognized as a group of people
who speak the Germanic group of languages. Culturally, this included the
English, Dutch, Icelandic, Danish, Norwegian and Swedish peoples. This
is also called the Nordic tradition.
Common ties/beliefs/Ideals/ect...
As stated earlier, it's not doctrine/dogma similarities which tend to
hold these diverse groups together, rather, it is the common ideals and
feelings expressed by the Pagan peoples themselves. Here are some
examples:
The Wiccan Rede: "An it harms none, do what thou will." is almost
universally accepted amongst the groups. Most groups tend to be
polytheistic, animists, pantheists, et. One is not "converted" to Wicca,
rather, the new comer feels a sense of "coming home", or, more
poetically, "The Goddess calls to her own". Nature plays a big part in
most traditions, either as direct personification of the God/dess, or as
aspects of them. There is no counterpart to the Devil, as such, in the
Pagan religions... no personification of 'all evil', rather, the choice
is there for all to make. However, there is the Law of Three Fold
Return, which states "That which thou dost send out shall return three
fold", so good begets good, and evil befalls those who are evil (a
horrendous understatement / simplification, but true).