Witchcraft Explained

Introduction to Witchcraft

Witchcraft, also known as “the craft,” is a standalone practice that has existed globally for centuries and is still present in various forms around the world. It utilizes magic, or “magick,” and while it is often associated with Wicca, it is not a religion in and of itself. It is a personal practice and lifestyle, and in this article, we will delve into the mysteries of Witchcraft, including its differences from Wicca, its various models, and its fascinating history and misconceptions.

The Nature of Witchcraft

Witchcraft, or “sorcery” is a standalone practice that has its roots in animism, the belief that all living and non-living things possess a spirit or soul. It makes use of magic, known as “magick,” to evoke change and manifest desired outcomes.

Unlike Wicca, which is a nature-based religion, Witchcraft is not a religion. It is a practice and a lifestyle, rather than a belief system, and is often very personal to each individual witch. Sorcery can be used in various belief systems, including Wicca, but it is not exclusive to Wicca and many witches do not associate themselves with the religion.

Witchcraft does not have any set rules or guidelines, and it is up to the individual’s ethical views and personal practices to determine their approach. This means that the principles that apply to Wicca, such as the rule to “Harm None” and the threefold law, do not necessarily apply to sorcery. It is important to note that Witches and Wiccans are not the same, and it is incorrect to group them together.

Witchcraft is a diverse and flexible practice that allows practitioners to tailor their approach to suit their own goals and beliefs. It can involve various forms of magick, such as spells, rituals, and divination, and may incorporate a variety of tools and techniques, including herbs, crystals, and other natural elements.

Witchcraft is often focused on self-care and self-development, and practitioners may use it for a variety of purposes, including personal growth, manifestation, and healing. However, it is important to remember that like any other tool or practice, sorcery can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner.

The Differences Between Witchcraft and Wicca

Witchcraft and Wicca are two separate practices that are often misunderstood and conflated by those unfamiliar with them. It is important to understand the distinctions between the two in order to accurately understand and respect their practices.

Witchcraft is a standalone practice that has its roots in animism, the belief that all living and non-living things possess a spirit or soul. It makes use of magic, known as “magick,” to evoke change and manifest desired outcomes.

Unlike Wicca, which is a nature-based religion, Witchcraft is not a religion. It is a practice and a lifestyle, rather than a belief system, and is often very personal to each individual witch.

Wicca, on the other hand, is a nature-based religion that worships a goddess and a god and follows a set of ethics known as the Wiccan Rede. Wiccans believe in the power of personal choice and responsibility, and often seek to live in harmony with the natural world. Wicca has its roots in ancient pre-Christian European traditions and was revived in the 20th century by a British civil servant named Gerald Gardner.

Witchcraft can be used in various belief systems, including Wicca, but it is not exclusive to Wicca and many witches do not associate themselves with the religion. Witchcraft does not have any set rules or guidelines, and it is up to the individual’s ethical views and personal practices to determine their approach. This means that the principles that apply to Wicca, such as the rule to “Harm None” and the threefold law, do not necessarily apply to Witchcraft.

It is important to remember that Witches and Wiccans are not the same, and it is incorrect to group them together. Each individual’s path and practices may vary, and it is important to respect and understand the differences between Witchcraft and Wicca.

The Four Models

Witchcraft can be divided into four models, which are different ways of thinking about and approaching the practice. These models are not mutually exclusive and an individual witch’s path may include elements of multiple models.

The psychological model of witchcraft uses the mind and positive thinking to evoke change. This model focuses on mindfulness techniques, the power of intention, and the laws of attraction. It is often called “high magick” because it involves using the mind and physical tools are not necessarily necessary. This model often has a lot in common with modern psychology and uses the placebo effect to its advantage.

The energetic model of witchcraft focuses on the vibrations and energy of objects and how they affect the practitioner. This model uses techniques such as aura reading and energy work to manipulate and balance the energies of the individual and the environment.

The spiritual model of witchcraft involves communication with spirits and deities. This model may involve prayer, meditation, and rituals to connect with and honor these beings.

The faith model of witchcraft is based on a personal belief in the power of the craft. This model may involve a strong sense of connection to the natural world and a belief in the interconnectedness of all things.

Each of these models offers a different approach to practicing witchcraft and allows practitioners to tailor their approach to suit their own goals and beliefs. It is important to remember that, like any other tool or practice, witchcraft can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner.

History of Witchcraft

The history of witchcraft is long and complex, with its origins dating back to the earliest records of human civilization. It has taken various forms and has been practiced in cultures around the world.

Witchcraft has its roots in animism, the belief that all living and non-living things possess a spirit or soul. This belief has existed in various cultures throughout history, and has given rise to various forms of magical practices and rituals.

Witchcraft as it is commonly understood today can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon England and Europe in the 5th-8th centuries. However, the practice of witchcraft has existed in various forms in many cultures throughout history.

In the medieval period, witchcraft was often associated with heretical or rebellious practices and was often met with persecution, particularly by the Catholic Church. This persecution reached a peak during the witch trials of the 15th-17th centuries, when thousands of people, mostly women, were accused of practicing witchcraft and were punished, often with execution.

“Previously I never thought of doubting that there were many witches in the world; now, however, when I examine the public record, I find myself believing that there are hardly any…”

Father Friedrich von Spee, S.J., Cautio Criminalis, 1631

In the 20th century, witchcraft experienced a resurgence with the revival of Wicca, a nature-based religion founded by British civil servant Gerald Gardner. Gardner claimed to have been initiated into a coven of witches in the 1930s and used his knowledge of traditional witchcraft practices to create a new, modernized form of the religion.

Today, witchcraft is recognized as a legitimate practice by many governments and organizations and is an important part of the diverse tapestry of spiritual beliefs and practices found in modern society. However, it is still often misunderstood and faces prejudice and discrimination, particularly in some parts of the world.

Misconceptions and Misunderstandings about Witchcraft

Witchcraft has long been misunderstood and shrouded in mystery, and as a result, there are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about the practice.

One common misunderstanding is that witchcraft is inherently evil or satanic. This is a misrepresentation of the practice, as sorcery is a neutral force that can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner. Many practitioners of witchcraft use their skills for self-care and self-development, and do not use their craft for harm.

Another misunderstanding is that witchcraft is solely the domain of women. While it is true that the majority of witches are women, the practice is not limited to any particular gender or sexual orientation. Men, women, and non-binary individuals can all practice sorcery.

There is also a commonly held belief that witches are witches because they have made a pact with the devil or have sold their souls. This is a baseless fear with no basis in reality and is a holdover from the witch trials of the medieval period, when accused witches were often charged with making a pact with the devil.

Despite the many misconceptions and misunderstandings about witchcraft, the practice is increasingly being recognized and accepted as a legitimate belief system. It is important to educate oneself and seek out accurate information about the practice in order to better understand and respect it.

In Conclusion

Witchcraft is a standalone practice that has roots in animism and the belief in the power of magic, or “magick.” It is a practice and a lifestyle, rather than a belief system, and is often very personal to each individual witch.

Witchcraft can be used in various belief systems, including Wicca, but it is not exclusive to Wicca and many witches do not associate themselves with the religion. It has a long and complex history, with its origins dating back to the earliest records of humans, and has survived centuries of persecution.

Despite the many misconceptions and misunderstandings about witchcraft, the practice is increasingly being recognized and accepted as a legitimate belief system. It is important to educate oneself and seek out accurate information about the practice in order to better understand and respect it. To learn more about Witchcraft, contact BKPS, and for another great read check out Shamanic Justice, which is about the way disputes are resolved in Siberia or read Magick in Theory and Practice by the wicked one Aleister Crowley.