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Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
From Pagan's Path (paganspath.com)and
SpringWolf - Author of Pagan Metaphysics
Due out in the Fall of 2011 from Schiffer Publishing

- This page contains:
- Getting The Basics
- What is Pagan, neo-Pagan etc?
- What is Paganism?
- 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?
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- 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?
- What is Black Magik / Magic?
- 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?
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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.
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What is Pagan, neo-Pagan , Witchcraft,
Pagan Metaphysics etc?
- There is a lot of confusion about labels and how they're
used to describe Witchcraft. The best place to start is with
a look at the dictionary definition so everyone has a common
point of reference.
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- Pagan:
- Any religion that does not espouse to (follows) Abrahamic
doctrine. Abrahamic doctrine is the foundation of belief for
Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
- neo-Pagan:
- Contrary to what some believe, "neo-" pagan isn't
a new term. It has been around for over 1000 years or more. It
was coined to define a group of pagan practices that align themselves
specifically with nature. Today's Witchcraft is more neo-pagan
than anything else.
- Witchcraft:
- A religion of Indo-European origins based in the foundation
of respect and honor. Recognizing and believing that all things,
seen and unseen throughout the divine universe are interconnected.
- Pagan Metaphysics:
- Because of the centuries of propaganda and negative connotation
to the title "Witchcraft" a new label has begun to
emerge for the religion, Pagan Metaphysics.
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What is Paganism?
- The literal meaning is the practices of a pagan, which could
be any pagan religion. Today it's more associated with the practices
of nature religions such as Witchcraft or Indo-European Shamanim.
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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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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What Is Witchcraft? What is Paganism?
What is Pagan Metaphysics?
- You can ask the question in many different ways, using any
of the above labels and you're basically asking the same thing.
To make things simple, we'll call it Witchcraft.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- It's really important to remember that not all who follow
Witchcraft are Polytheistic. Some denominations see the Divine
as a single all inclusive source which is often referred to as
the Universal Spirit, the Divine Spirit, the GreatSpirits and
a variety of other titles including God or Goddess. It's really
up to you and what label best fits your view of the Divine force
on your own personal path and perspective. My tradition follows
the path of non-Polytheistic. Where some traditions see the Divine
as a tree who's branches are represented by different Gods and
Goddesses, we see the Divine as the entire Tree. Why work with
just an aspect of the branches, when you can work with the entire
Tree. So in this regard my tradition isn't Polytheistic in the
concept of a God/Goddess duality. We see the divine as the GreatSpirits
and we see the divine as that entire tree which we are part of.
Thus we put an emphasis on the plural "GreatSpirits"
meaning the Divine is made up of all things.
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- Those who do choose to work on a polytheistic path, work
to honor the deity/deities, not worship. It's a small distinction
but an important one. Worship implies a force outside the self,
honor in this context refers to the Divine within or part of
the self. A person typically selects a Pantheon to work with,
such as the Greek Gods and Goddesses, or Norse Gods and Goddesses.
Within this group, a person will often choose a single God figure
and single Goddess figure to be their patron deities. Their rituals,
prayers, spells and workings will call upon these figures primarily,
or other figures within the Pantheon to join forces with the
primary God/goddess for whatever the purpose or intent of the
working is. These chosen deities do not have to be a choice for
life. As you learn and grow so will your needs and interests.
As such, you may also feel a need to change your connection to
the Divine by working with different Gods or Goddesses.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- - What Witchcraft Isn't!
- Witchcraft is not Satanism
nor does it worship the Devil 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.
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- It's important to note that Satanism is not a religion of
the Devil as well. While Satanism is a pagan religion, they do
not believe in nor do they worship the Biblical concept of the
devil.
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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.
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- 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.
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- You can learn more about Witchcraft through several mainstream
sources, besides here on the Pagan's Path:
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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.
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- There are Witches in Witchcraft just as there are in other
religions. There are 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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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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.
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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.
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- 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.
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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.
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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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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What is a Coven?
- Many people practice within a group of like minded Practitioners
. 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.
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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
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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.
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- 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.
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Do You Cast Spells?
- Not all Practitioners 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.
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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.
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- 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.
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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.
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Can I Have A Spell?
- Many people ask us for a spell. The most common "A love
spell" or a "Revenge spell".
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- Practitioners 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.
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- Practitioners 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.
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- 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.
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What Is A Wica/Wicca?
- The religion of Witchcraft has many denominations, what we
call Traditions or Trads. Wicca is a denomination with the religion,
but it's not the first or the only one. 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.
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- 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 Practitioners 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.
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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.
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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
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- 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
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- 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
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What are Christo Pagans?
- Christo Pagans is a relatively new designation for Pagans
who have successfully merged the religious doctrines of Witchcraft
and Christianity. They are also called Christan Wiccans in some
sects.
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- Yes it is possible to merge these two religions together.
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), Christian Wiccans
do the same thing. They see the God as Jesus, the Goddess as
Mary, and the Godhead or Holy Trinity as Jehovah.
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- 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.
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What is Black Magik / Magic? What
is White Magik? What is Nature Magik?
- Most practitioners of magik will say there is no color in
magik and that's true to some extent. But that doesn't mean the
idea of black, white or nature magik doesn't exist in today's
vocabulary.
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- Black Magik is typically known as magikal practices with
negative intent. That means doing harm or trying to control others.
Most practitioners of Witchcraft do not associate with these
kinds of practices, seeing them as non-productive and producing
negative karma. It goes against the spiritual aspects of the
religion and in most cases is considered to be spiritual rape
(as in forcing someone to do something they might not normally
do).
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- White Magik is the opposite of course, focusing on positive
intent or actions. Even with a positive intent, white magik can
be used to control the will of others. Because of that, it holds
a similar accountability as those actions conducted under the
concepts of black magik. Think of it this way. Conducting a healing
for a relative dying of cancer in order for that person to continue
living is admirable. But the consequences are you could be forcing
that person to live longer in immense pain and suffering for
your own selfish need. Just because White Magik is intended to
be helpful doesn't mean it's always a good idea to cast.
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- Nature Magik may also be called Green Magik. However there
are Green Magicians who would argue with that perspective. In
general, Nature Magik is the practice of Balance. Whither we
want to see it or not, Nature is filled with balance. It sees
there is a need for fight equal to a need for flight. Each has
it's consequences, each has it's place. A victim of rape may
cast a negative spell against her attacker in order for him to
be caught by police and prosecuted for his crime. A healer may
cast a spell for a cancer patient to provide spiritual energy
for their soul to choose between life and transition to death
as they see fit. The key is accepting the accountability and
responsibility of the intent behind the magik one invokes.
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How Do You Become A Witch?
- Make the choice and learn all you can.
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- If what you're really interested in is becoming a practitioner
of Witchcraft:
- Some people are born into a family of Practitioners and raised
pagan. Others convert, and others simply proclaim themselves
as pagan and take on the title of Witch. But most often it depends
on which tradition a person follows.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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- 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
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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.
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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.
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- 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.
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- 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.
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Be Aware of Your Rights
- If you think the Burning Times are long ago and remembered
only in history books, you're wrong. Although a little more subtle
than death, witches are still persecuted today in many ways and
all over the world. In some places, women who are accused of
Witchcraft are still stoned to death. Persecutions today are
held in HR departments, Court rooms and even in public schools.
Neo-pagans still face the threat of losing the right to practice
their beliefs and must continually fight for Freedom of Religion.
You'll find more information the Path's Religious
Awareness pages.
-
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.
-
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Some Books To Start With |
Some Articles 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
Springwolf
Pagan Metaphysics 101: The Beginning of Enlightenment
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 |
Getting Started
Several How
To's
Such as learning meditation, tarot,
astral
projection and more.
On Springwolf Reflections:
- ~ What
Is Paganism? A Basic Description of Paganism
- & Pagan Metaphysics
~What
Is Pagan Metaphysics?
~Frequently
Asked Questions
~Getting
Started
~Meditation,
Energy & Action
Witchcraft
& Shamanism
If you're drawn to eclectic magik,
Celtic,
Wiccan, Norse or other traditions,
this is
a good place to start.
The
Witches Voice
Another wonderful eclectic site.
-
-
- And if you're looking for other people in your area, you
might search through the very popular WitchVox.net site. This is the Witches Voice
Community website. You can view profiles of people, professionals
and stores in your area by country or state.
-
-
- If you'd like a larger list of book suggestions, try the
Books & Resources page. If you can't
find these books in your local bookstore, try the internet's
bookstore at Amazon.com
.
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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.
-
- For those who enjoy social media networking, you can follow
Pagan's Path on Facebook @
~ Spring'sHaven @ http://facebook.com/springshaven
~ LadySpringWolf @ http://facebook.com/ladyspringwolf
-
-
-
Many Blessings,
- Director, The Pagan's Path
- President, Spring's Haven Spiritual Center

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- Created: 10.02.1996 Updated: 03.31.2011
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