Dear Magical Reader,
Have you ever wondered whether witches really ride broomsticks and concoct potions in a 2-foot cauldron? I’m sorry, but the truth about Wicca might surprise you if your only encounter with a witch was on Halloween or in a Hollywood dark fantasy! In this letter, I will uncover the truth behind this misunderstood nature-based religion, which is a world away from the satanic sacrificial practice it is made out to be.
Wicca is a religion that celebrates the events throughout the wheel of the year and the changing seasons. Gerald Gardner, inspired by ancient and more modern magical practices, was founded in the mid-20th century. Even though Wicca draws from ancient pagan traditions, it is its own distinct practice. Recently, we have started to step away from the associations with Gardner due to unethical practices, which has resulted in split avenues of Wicca contributing to the unique nature of Wicca, allowing people to pick what most aligns with their craft. Myself following a more eclectic route. In Wicca, both God and Goddess are honoured at rituals,which represents the balance of masculine and feminine energies in the universe. These rituals and ceremonies include casting circles and using symbolic tools to connect with the divine, not for the literal uses that most people think of when they think of a witch’s broomstick or wand. The"Wiccan Rede" is an essential text that encourages witches to "harm none" and promotes harmony with nature and others.
The first and most common misconception about Wicca is its links/lack there of links to satanism. People often see Wicca as synonymous with Satanism, but this is not and has not been the truth. As mentioned before, Wicca is all about embracing nature and focusing on the earth and its natural wonders. Wiccan as opposed to satanism has no concept of the devil or evil embodiment, we do not believe in it as part of our practices. The "Wiccan Rede" itself stresses the importance of causing no harm, which does not align with the concept of the devil.
I need several more fingers to count how often I have been asked (particularly by prospective partners finding out I am a witch) whether I will curse or cast an evil spell on them. I used to get annoyed and shut them down immediately, although now I wish I had told them yes to scare them off. Nevertheless, I felt more compelled to defend my craft against the accusations of ill-will. So many people still believe that Wiccans cast harmful spells, but this is, of course, another prevalent misconception. Positive intentions, healing, protection, and personal growth are at the forefront of the topics of our spells, using magic to better ourselves and those around us. Before doing a spell, we must consider whether it aligns with the Wiccan Rede’s guidance to ‘harm none’. Ethical practices and free will are so important to Wiccans to maintain peace and light. By dispelling this myth, we can hope to practice our craft without judgment or criticism.
Like many other religions, Wiccans worshipping a single deity is another myth. A diverse pantheon of deities is warmly embraced by those who practice wicca, however an individual wiccan often focuses on a God and a Goddess who represent the duality of masculine and feminine along with the balance of nature, I myself focus on Aphrodite and Ares. On the other hand, Wiccans may also choose to honour a variety of gods and goddesses from different mythological backgrounds, which makes the practice so much more inclusive. Understanding the polytheistic aspect of Wicca also helps dispel the myth that Wicca is centred around a singular deity or that they are devil worshippers!
The final myth I will be dispelling is that Wicca is a religion exclusively for women or female-presenting people. Wicca is inclusive and welcomes practitioners of all genders and backgrounds. As mentioned, this religion values both masculine and feminine energies, and all genders can embody both types of energy. Many men, including the founder, have practised Wicca, and I would encourage anyone of any gender to practice this religion if it aligns with their beliefs and morals.
By clarifying that Wicca is most certainly not synonymous with Satanism, does not involve casting evil spells, etc, we can start to work towards a future where witches can be more open about their practice. Wicca's core principles of harmony, balance, and ethical living reflect the deep connection to the natural world, which is truly beautiful and makes it a religion to be admired and cherished. If there are any more misconceptions you can think of, feel free to note them down in the comments
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