Frequently Asked Questions

This page contains: Getting The Basics Is Witchcraft Real or Legal? What Is Witchcraft?  - What Witchcraft Isn't! Is Witchcraft evil? What Is A Witch? What Is A Warlock? What Is A Wizard? What Is A Shaman/Shamanka? What Is Shamanism? What Is A Coven? What Is A Solitaire? Do Pagans Go To Church? . Do You Cast Spells? What Is A Spell? Can I Cast A Spell? Can I Have A Spell? What Is Wica/Wicca? What Is A Tradition? How Many Traditions Are There? What Are Christo Pagans? How Do You Become A Witch? How Can I Learn More? Words of Warning. Where Can I Get More Information? Where Can I Get Help?

Getting The Basics Every set of beliefs or religion has it's basic concepts and it's misconceptions. On this posting, I hope to give you some answers to the most frequently asked questions received from emails, my message board, chat rooms and even during my formal realtime classes.

Is Witchcraft Real or Legal? First and foremost, Witchcraft IS a legally recognized religion in the United States. Officially recognized in 1985 after a short battle in congress and the supreme court. Witchcraft or 'practice of the wise' as it is sometimes known, came under fire by a bill submitted to Congress by Jesse Helms. The Helms amendment came under great fire by both Constitutional and Bill of Rights supporters. In the end, the bill was shot down stating Pagan paths are protected under the 1st Amendment.   After this ruling, the US Army added a section to the U.S. Army Chaplains Handbook for Witchcraft practices. The handbook lists the religion as Wicca, which is one of the modern sects of the faith. However, in the 'known by other names' sections; you'll find Witchcraft listed, which is the more accurate label for the religion as a whole.   Witchcraft, in all its incarnations, is probably one of the longest and most persecuted religions in history, as stated by the University of Virginia. And unfortunately that persecution continues today.   What Is Witchcraft? Witchcraft is a religion and a way of life. There are many definitions, but the one I like most is: Witchcraft is a religion that respects all living things, seen and unseen in the divine universe.   It is a spiritual path that sets the foundation of metaphysical beliefs. It is comprised of many denominations which we call traditions. These traditions put our beliefs into practice and sometimes further details or defines what those beliefs are. Think of it this way; Wicca is to Witchcraft; what Baptist is to Christianity. There is a common set of beliefs in Christianity; and the many denominations of Christianity put those beliefs into practice in various ways.   In most traditions Witchcraft is symbolized by honoring the male and female aspects of the Divine universe, within the self and around nature as a whole. The Divine encompasses the manifestation of the male and female as a God and Goddess combination. Most pagans assign mythological deities, or pantheons, to these aspects of the Divine, to give them form and substance. Much like Christians do with images of Jesus or the Crucifix as a representation of Jesus and God. But this is not a requirement, nor is it a consistence practice across all denominations of Witchcraft. Not all traditions work with a God or Goddess deity at all. Instead they see the divine as a whole entity, such as the GreatSpirits.   Many suggest that Witchcraft is an "Earth based religion", which it is, but this is actually a minor definition. Witchcraft is a 'Universal' based religion, believing in the seen and unseen forces in all nature here on Earth and in the greater universe. It is a religion of honor and respect for all living things.   Basic Foundation of Belief: Those who practice Witchcraft most often hold a belief in reincarnation, karma, connecting with energy that lives in all things, ghosts and spirits, and other metaphysical principles. You can find more detail about the basic beliefs on the Metaphysics 101 section. Further details into the practices and some of the traditional practices can be found on the Witchcraft & Shamanism section.   - What Witchcraft Isn't! Witchcraft is not Satanism or a Devil Worship religion as some prejudices claim. Pagans do not believe in the existence of the Devil. It would be difficult to worship that type of spirit when you don't believe it exists in the first place. This is a concept create by the early Catholic Church to force pagans to repent and convert to Christianity.   Is Witchcraft evil? No! People, no matter what region they practice, and their actions can be 'evil'. There are good a bad people in all walks of life regardless of religion.   Witchcraft is a religion of respect and honor. Most traditions of Witchcraft maintain a creed of faith or rede that define the basic principles of their practice. Within all the creeds I have researched (and note that I have not by any means researched all), there is always a statement of some kind statement noting the responsibility and accountability of our own actions. Wiccans define this as "An in it, do harm to none". Not all traditions follow this exact phrasing, but do have a similar perspective.   You can learn more about Witchcraft through several mainstream sources, besides here on the Pagan's Path.com: The University Of Virginia - Religious Movements : Wicca The U.S. Army Chaplin's Handbook on Witchcraft/Wicca Joan's Witch Directory The Covenant of the Goddess   What Is A Witch? The simple definition is a person who practices the art of energy manipulation; what we call Magik. This label is typically associated with Anglo-Celtic, Celtic and Southern Teutonic magik traditions. However, the label "witch" is not specific to any one religion.   There are Witches in Witchcraft, Christian Witches, Jewish Witches (more often called Mystics), Satanic Witches, Voodoun Witches and many more. Each of these religions use the label witch, or variations, to describe a person who includes magik as part of their beliefs and practices.   Being a witch is a choice, not a birth right or predestined path. A person can chose to work with energy through healing; but that doesn't make them a Witch. Lighting a candle in church and saying a prayer to Jesus, doesn't make someone a Witch. There is no witch DNA, or witch chromosome. So it's important to know that no one is 'born a witch' or can claim to be a 'natural witch'. Even people with natural talents must first accept them and chose to use them. And then chose how they are to be used and on what path.   Finally, not all who walk on the religious path of Witchcraft practice magik. Therefore they don't claim the label witch for their own use. And not who practice magik, use it on a spiritual path at all. Most of these follow the principles of Spellcraft and not a religious view such as Witchcraft. Spellcrafters often prefer the label Mage, instead of Witch, to make a distinction between their magik practices and those of spiritual witches.   What Is A Warlock? (Scottish, Anglo-Saxon) Meaning 'Oath Breaker': An ancient term often misused for a male witch. It is a term used in early paganism to represent a worker of evil. Loosely translated it means "liar" or "Oath Breaker". It is often offensive to most modern male witches. (Norse) Meaning 'Wise Man' or 'Wise Wizard': The Norse derivation derives from 'vardlokkur' which meant a man with the power of binding spirits using runes, calls and knot-magic. It was also used as the label for the Gate Keepers or Guardians who protected spiritual knowledge and wisdom. In Norse traditions, this label is still accepted and used today.   What Is A Wizard? (Anglo-Saxon) Includes both sexes; One who is born with naturally given talents, energies and great knowledge of Magikal practices. One who adheres to the pagan traditions. A wizard usually acts alone and is sometimes considered to be a semi-divine authority. Merlin would be a good example. However, this divine perception is often rejected and most often redirected to the proper deities by the wizard himself/herself.   Everyone is born with gifts and talents, however, a wizard is born with an inner instinct toward magikal practices. That person still has to make the 'choice' to use those gifts on the pagan path. A witch or wizard is making a choice to follow the principles and beliefs of the pagan path and exercise their given talents. They are not born with an all knowing wisdom. Just like everyone else; they have learning to do and wisdom to achieve.   What Is A Shaman/Shamanka? (Sanskrit) In the strictest definition "one who lives life in self-denial for spiritual purpose". However, this word is more often viewed through it's secondary meaning "one who is dedicated to a spiritual life achieving a level of leadership and teaching". The term began in India and slowly migrated in two directions. The first moved through Germany, Scotland, Ireland, and on to North America. The second moved through the Orient, Russia and on to the North western sections of North America . Shaman is the masculine variation, Shamanka is the female version.   What Is Shamanism? (Siberia, UralAltaic, Irish/Scottish, Central Asia, Orient) A very highly respected profession wherein one serves his or her community as a spiritual leader. Providing guidance through psychic skills, healing abilities and communications with Divine spirit. Believed to be learned from a past incarnation and initiations, along with study and practice in the current embodiment.   Shamanism is most often associated with Native American practices. But this is only one version of Shamanistic practices. Native American beliefs are very similar in respect to working with nature; but some Native Americans reject the label Shaman. Preferring instead Medicine man or woman.   Shamanism has a long history in Anglo-European countries as well. Although given different labels in each culture, the practices of a Shaman (male) or Shamanka (female) are magikal. As such, in most pagan traditions, a person cannot claim the title of Shaman (spiritual leader) without an initiation of some sort. You might associate this initiation with an Ordination of a minister or priest. A person must achieve a certain level of knowledge and wisdom; endure trials or tests of their abilities and then they are ordained into Shamanhood by another Shaman.   Shamanism is both a religion separate from Witchcraft, and a sect or specific denomination of Witchcraft. Nothing like a little confusion huh? There are many forms of Shamanism, some stand on their own, while others have been incorporated into neo-Paganism belief systems that we've come to know as Witchcraft. Personally, I practice a form of Celtic Shamanism. I am not a witch, but do practice a form of Shamanistic Witchcraft.   What is a Coven? Many people practice within a group of like minded practioners. Often these groups follow the same tradition. These are called Covens, Clans, Groves and a few other labels. Click here to learn more about a Coven, Grove and Alike.   What is a Solitaire? Not everyone who practices the religion of Witchcraft does so within a group. Whither by choice or because they have not located others in their area to form a group. People who practice alone, and walk on their own traditional path are called Solitaires. You can learn more through the article on the Witchcraft and Shamanism section - Solitary vs. Coven Practices   Do Pagans Go To Church? Yes and no. When most people think of ‘church’ the think of a building with a chapel and pews. While some traditions have structures they utilize for gatherings, these aren’t the common gathering places. Pagans typically gather together in circles for ritual. These gatherings are typically held outside weather permitting. Some organizations like to gather within some kind of structure, such as a covered gazebo type building. Open to nature, but covered from the weather. One famous circle structure is Stonehenge and many covens have taken the time to reproduce that structure on their own ceremonial grounds.   There is no standard place or structure for gathering. Covens try to accommodate the needs and desires of their membership and conduct rituals accordingly. They can be inside, outside, in circles, squares, or triangles. Some groups are so large, that it only makes sense to have gatherings in a standard pulpit/audience type set up. These days, having a ritual with a bonfire in the center is very popular. Many covens have acquired brass fire pits to safely enjoy a bonfire for their ritual workings. And those tend to be best used outside.   Do You Cast Spells? Not all practioners of the religion of Witchcraft cast spells or circles. Others may use spells on special occasions, or for special events in their life. While others still are very involved in magikal practices; both on personal levels and within a group; such as their coven or clan.   What Is A Spell? A spell is a focus of energy, manipulated and cast for a specific intent or purpose. Focused by energy, intent, sometimes tools or other supports, such as elixirs or potions. But, within the religion of Witchcraft, they are always conducted through a ritual or ceremony. Many who do combine magik with religion, often combine the practice of spell casting with their chosen divine being or deity.   It's important to remember that Witchcraft is not about "spells" or "casting". It's a serious expression of a spiritual way of life. One which utilizes spells in it's rituals and ceremonies.   Can I Cast A Spell? If you don't understand the basics of energy manipulation, how energy works or can be conducted, then don't cast until you understand what you're doing. If you don't understand the consequences or accountability you are responsible for in casting a spell, then don't cast until you have a good understanding of these things. You can see the last question on this page to learn more.   Can I Have A Spell? Many people ask us for a spell. The most common "A love spell" or a "Revenge spell".   Practioners within the religion of Witchcraft do not often, if ever, share their spells. A spell is personal and defines your own personal intent. It's your spell, it's your energy and there is no greater expression of that energy than through your own words as a spell. In a teaching situation, a witch might give you an example of what is said during a particular section of a ceremony. But most often these are just examples. You should still create your own.   Practioners of Witchcraft rarely if ever cast spells that manipulate the actions or emotions of another being. In most cases this is considered to be spiritual rape and manipulation. It is not the work of a person who honors or respects the forces of nature. To be so disrespectful as to force someone else into doing something against their will is considered a negative act. No matter how much you love someone, casting a spell upon them is not going to make them love you long term. If your desires work, they will only work for a brief period and you will never know if the person loves you for you, or because of the false spell you cast upon them. Eventually your magik will wear off and you'll have to deal with the consequences of your actions. These are always painful and emotionally devastating.   Simply put, what you put out into the universe will come back to you. If you put out good thoughts, energies and intentions, then good will be returned to you. By the same token, if you put out negative thoughts, energies and actions, negative events and energies will be returned to you. This is a basic principle in many religions around the world.   What Is A Wica/Wicca? One form or tradition of Witchcraft. Think of it this way; Wicca is to Witchcraft what a Baptist is to Christianity. Most Wiccans believe that the universal energy works through a polarity, a yin-yang or masculine-feminine interaction. In other traditions such Dianic Witchcraft, only the aspects of the Goddess are celebrated.   Wicca is a relatively new tradition in Witchcraft, founding in the 1950s by Gerald Gardner. You will find Wicca spelt in two variations: Wica and Wicca. Gardner spelt his tradition as Wica. Later practioners assumed he mis-spelt the label and that he based the title of his tradition on the Old English word Wicca which translates to "wise one". (Wicca ~ masculine / Wicce ~ feminine). Thus the second spelling has become more popular and common.   What Is A Tradition? Every religion has variations of practice. Formal organizations of this practice are often called a sect, denomination or tradition. In Witchcraft these sects are commonly called traditions. Witchcraft defines the basic beliefs and principles of the religion, while the traditions put those beliefs into practice, often times further detailing the principles through their individual practices. Here on the Pagan'sPath, you'll find several traditions discussed, Celtic, Celtic Shamanism, Norse, Wiccan and as time progresses, you'll find more.   How Many Traditions Are There? Several, some are relatively new, such as Seax-Wica which was formed in 1972. While others are based in ancient family or cultural traditions, such as the Druids who can be found as far back as the 5th Century A.D. Here are just a few of the documented traditions: Alexandrian Anglo-Romany Anglo-Saxon Ásatrú Arthurian Brezonek Brittanic Brythonic Caledoni Celtic Celtic Shamanism Creabh Ruadh Cymri Deborean Deborean Wicca Dianic Druidiactos Druidic Dryad Eclectic Eireannach Faery Family Feri Fennian Gaelic Gardnerian Golden Dawn Hebridean Hibernian Irish Kingstone Maidenhill Majestic Manx Norse North Country North Isles Northern OBOD Ordo Templi Orientis Pecti-Wita Reformed Druids Romano-Gaulish Sacred Wheel Seax-Wica Scotia Scottish Shamanic Tuatha De Danonn Ueleda Tradition Welsh West Country Wica / Wicca Wicce Witan Witchcraft Wittan Y Tylwyth Teg   What are Christo Pagans? Christo Pagans is a relatively new designation for Pagans who have successfully merged the religious doctrines of Witchcraft and Christianity. And yes it is possible. They may also take on the label of Christian Wiccans. Typically, these people believe in the teachings of the Christian Bible, but they stop short of believing that Jesus was a savior who died for their sins. Just as a pagan may chose a set of deities to honor (ie: the God, the Goddess, the Godhead), Christo pagans do the same thing. They see the God as Jesus, the Goddess as Mary, and the Godhead or Holy Trinity as Jehovah.   Don't confuse Christian Wiccans with Christian Witches. They're not the same thing. Witch is a label that is used in any religion to designate a person who practices the craft of magik, or the science of energy manipulation. Witches exist in all religions, including Christianity. Most people have a narrow view of Christians based on the indo-European perceptions. But consider the magical practices of cultures in Central and South America. These people are devout Christians, who just happen to also believe in magik.   How Do You Become A Witch? Some people are born into a family of practioners and raised pagan. Others convert, and others simply proclaim themselves as a witch and take on the title. But most often it depends on which tradition a witch follows.   For instance a child born into the Celtic tradition is welcomed through a magikal ritual and ceremony called a Paganing Rite, much like a baptism in the Christian faith. But a child does not automatically gain the right be called a witch until they participate in a "Coming of Age" ritual. In this ceremony the child makes a proclamation of choice and a dedication to themselves and to the spiritual path. They must also perform a small ritual to prove they are ready for the journey. In most cases this ritual is reciting a spiritual credo which they must write themselves. The credo includes the definition and announcement of their magikal path and a ceremonial craft name.   In most traditions this is a dedication of faith, not an initiation. For those people who wish to convert to the religion of Witchcraft, a Dedication ceremony is an appropriate step onto that path. In both cases, this is an event that proclaims belief and acknowledges the dedication to learning on the pagan path. In other words, in many traditions just claiming the title of witch does not make you one. You must earn the right to take on the label.   Many traditions carry this practice a step farther and require an official Initiation ceremony. This can be as a simple ritual conducted by a Coven or community leader. To the more elaborate, requiring a series of tests that must be passed before claiming a title, such as witch, Priest, Priestess, Mage or Shaman. For additional information, see the PagansPath's Getting Started article as well.   If you are under 18, please understand that it is against the law for any adult to teach you a religious belief without the consent of your parents. Considering Witchcraft is a religion of respect, lying or hiding your beliefs or research from your parents is not respect. I urge everyone, adults and minors alike to read two postings on this site:   A Parents Guide To Protecting Their Child With Craft Interests  A Guide To Children Interested In Magikal Paths   How Can I Learn More? If you are one of the many people looking for information on how to become a witch, there are a few things you should ask yourself first. What is your reason for wanting to be a Witch? If your reason is simply so you can cast a spell, it's the wrong reason and you might find more information if you look for Spellcraft, than Witchcraft. If your reasons are truly from an interest in the faith or you feel drawn to Witchcraft as a religion, then you maybe on the right path. But you should learn more and make an informed decision. Are you willing to live by the spiritual laws as a way of life? If you are, or if you're not sure, do a lot of research on your own and find out as much as you can about the path you've chosen. How Do I Get Started? Read, learn and read a lot more. Do your own research, and not just from magikal books or reference manuals. Through studying history, other religions and how they all inter-relate and interact. I have a favorite saying for this type of education: "Books can give you knowledge. But only your own personal experiences give you wisdom to decide your own path."   My Getting Started page lists the information and resources I provide to my students who have recently stepped onto the path. You'll also find a first assignment, and specific book suggestions.   Words of Warning. Don't take one persons word or teachings as the only truth or as the only way on this or any spiritual path. No one person has all the answers for you. Only you know what rings true within your own heart and soul.   When it comes time for you to chose a mentor, be very cautious. There are a lot of novice people claiming to be a High Priest or Priestess. The best advice I could give is find someone who can prove they have practiced the path for several years (my standard is 10 years or more with formal education and a document of initiation). Don't just take their word for it. Find someone who is willing to answer your questions without charging you money. Taking a class and paying for an instructors time is not the same thing as finding a spiritual teacher. What you should really be looking for is a mentor or guide, not a person who thinks they have the right to tell you what to do or believe.   Lastly, always question! Question everything you are told and everything you read. Research other material to validate what you are being told or what you read in a book. Make sure that a book is supported by other books and by history itself.   Where Can I Get More Information? You can begin your study through several publications. Below is a list of a few I like. If you're truly interested in beginning your study, start at the top and go through the list. You'll also find an extensive resource on the Books & Resources page. But if you can't wait, start now through the many wonderful web sites on the internet. Of course I like this site, but it's not the only pagan education site on the web. You should start with the basics, an understanding of metaphysical principles. Then move on to the lessons of Witchcraft. It will make your journey into magik much easier to understand and utilize.    Some Books To Start With  Some Web Sites To Start With My students start their research on these first 4 books to gain basic understanding of the spirit, energy and your own inner awareness. To be read in this specific order: Iris Belhayes:         Spirit Guides Sanaya Roman & Duane Packer:         Opening To Channel Shakti Gawain:         Living In The Light Starhawke:         Spiral Dance Margot Adler         · Drawing Down the Moon Laurie Cabot         · Power of the Witch         · Celebrate the Earth         · The Witch In Every Woman Scott Cunningham         · Wicca, a Guide for the           Solitary Practitioner         · Living Wicca         · Earth Power: Techniques of         Natural Magic Marion Green         · A Witch Alone Fergus Kelly         · A Guide to Early Irish Law Edain McCoy         · Celtic Women's Spirituality         · Celtic Myth & Magic David Rice McAnally         · Irish Wonders Caitlin Matthews         · The Celtic Spirit         · The Celtic Devotional         · The Celtic Book Of Days         · The Celtic Book Of The Dead John Matthews         · The Celtic Shaman Alwyn Rees & Brinley Rees         · Celtic Heritage Starhawk         · The Spiral Dance         · Dreaming the Dark Patricia Telesco         · The Kitchen Witch Doreen Valiente         · Natural Magik         · Witchcraft For Tomorrow         · An ABC Of Witchcraft If you'd like a larger list of book suggestions, try the Books & Resources page. Kundilini & Chakras.        What is the Soul? The Akashic Records.         Where are past life memories kept? What is Reincarnation? What is Karma? Spirit Guides.        Do you have one and who is it? Energy.        Why is it important? Psychic Gifts.        Do I have any? Several How To's         Such as learning meditation, tarot, astral         projection and more. Witchcraft & Shamanism         If you're drawn to eclectic magik, Celtic,         Wiccan, Norse or other traditions, this is         a good place to start. The Covenant Of The Goddess         One of the oldest pagan organizations         in the U.S. The Witches Voice         Another wonderful eclectic site. You can also search the web for additional sites. One of the best search engines for occult sites is at AvatarSearch. Or check out the Link Exchange for metaphysical, healing or magikal sites. And if you're looking for other people in your area, you might search through the new and very popular WitchVox.net site or PaganProfiles .   If you can't find these books in your local bookstore, try the internet's bookstore at Amazon.com .

Where can I get help? If you have any questions, or need further clarification; please feel free to contact me. If I can help, I'd be glad to answer any additional questions, or at the very least I might be able to point you to another resource. You might also like to join our community and post your questions and thoughts on the PagansPath.com MessageBoard. You'll find a good number of knowledgeable people there who are more than willing to share their experiences and information.   Many Blessings, Director, The Pagan's Path