When people think of witches, often times images of old, ugly hags come to mind, complete with warts all over their faces. They are thought of as standing around a black cauldron, creating potions to cast black magic.
Considered devil worshipers, throughout time, women who have been accused of witchcraft have been persecuted and often put to death by means of being burned alive at the stake, hanging or strangulation. They were believed to have had special abilities such as telepathy, which many churches felt was the work of Satan.
Real Witch
Forget the image of a hag riding a broomstick at night and letting out an evil cackle as she flies by. Most modern-day witches are highly spiritual and follow the Wiccan religion, although witchcraft is practiced in many additional religions. Wiccans believe in both God and Goddess with an emphasis put on Mother Earth.
This eo-Pagan religion has a great respect for nature and the planet. With this respect for life, most witches today focus on white magic and spells in order to help others in areas such as healing and love. Sometimes rituals are practiced alone, while other times they are performed in a group with other witches, which is known as a coven, and headed by a high priestess.
How to Be a Witch
Entering into the world of witchcraft can be a wonderful journey into self discovery. First, you'll need a great respect for nature. Familiarize yourself with mother Earth. Spend some time outdoors hiking and exploring. It's also important to learn to work with the various energies in the universe. Take some time to learn about moon phases.
Try practicing meditation in order to keep your mind clear and allow the flow of positive energy. Many witches practice rituals for cleansing and empowering. If possible, set up a special altar that can be used when performing these rituals. The altar can also be used when performing magick.
Witch Spells
When people begin to study witchcraft, also known as the Craft, they are often anxious to begin casting spells. It's best to go through the above mentioned tasks first in order to have a better understanding of yourself and universal energy, as energy is important when casting spells.
There is no one magic spell book to read from. In fact, many witches create their own spells. In order to prepare for spell casting, it is suggested to become familiar with the Wiccan religion, if not already familiar with it. Keep in mind that being a witch isn't just something to do, it's a lifestyle.
Although some people still associate witches with demonic beings or as being Satan's helpers, much more understanding is being shown today for this magick art which in reality is a form of divination. Most witches are not out to hurt anyone. In fact the opposite is quite true. The supreme law in witchcraft states "An' [If] it harm none, do what ye will do." This is according to the Wiccan Reed.
If planning to become a witch, make sure to have a good understanding of all aspects of the Craft from learning about nature and energy, to how spells should be used for the good and to help others, along with allowing for self empowerment.
Readers may also enjoy Salem Witch House and What Is Voodoo? – History of Voodoo.
Sources:
- Harper's Encyclopedia of Mystical & Paranormal Experience, Rosemary Ellen Guiley, (HarperSanFrancisco,) 1991
- The Encyclopedia of the Occult, Lewis Spence, (Braken Books,) 1988
Janis Masyk-Jackson - I'm here to seek out the truth about some of life's mysteries. There is nothing new about New Age beliefs. These are beliefs that have ...
Join the Conversation