Wiccan
Wicca is a religion, and someone who follows that religion is called a Wiccan.
Sometimes it can be difficult to accurately define Wicca, and not all Wiccans will define themselves the same way. Observing the 8 Wiccan Sabbats, honoring the Gods and/or Goddesses, creating sacred space for rituals, to name a few. Many traditional Wiccans also feel that belonging to a coven is also a requirement and that those who practice their religion as a solitary, should not refer to themselves as Wiccan. Personally, I don't agree on that point. Many Wiccans also practice magick, and therefore are also witches. You cannot be a "natural Wiccan" any more than you could be a "natural Christian".
Witch
The practice of witchcraft is not associated with any religion, therefore you can be a witch and yet also be a member of any number of religions (or none). Using the natural energies within yourself, along with the energies of herbs, stones or other elements to make changes around you is considered witchcraft. Though the skills and gifts that are part of witchcraft can be inherited from parents or grandparents, you aren't automatically a witch just because your grandmother may have been one. The use of magick takes practice, experience and learning. On a side note, a male witch is called a witch, not a warlock.
Pagan
While I'm explaining terminology, I thought I would throw in "Pagan" as well. Paganism refers to a variety of non-Christian/Jewish/ Islamic religions that are usually polytheistic and are often nature-based. Wicca is only one Pagan religion, but there are others such as Santeria, Asatru, or Shamanism. Many people do not necessarily identify with a specific religion, and just use the broad term "Pagan" to define their spiritual path. Pagan religions are distinct and separate from each other, and it should not be assumed that they are just different names for the same faith.
Your altar is the place where you hold rituals, and keep or display your ritual tools. It can be a coffee table, bookshelf, TV tray, computer desk, or any other flat surface. An unattractive table can be spruced up with a decorative cloth.
Depending on your space or living arrangements, you may have to keep your altar small and portable. If you are unable to have a permanent altar because of friends or family members, you can just set it up and take it down whenever you need to. Using small items can make this easier. Or you can create an altar space that can camouflage as just a group of decorative items. Use your creativity.
There will be things you keep on your altar all the time, but during the Sabbats, you can decorate with appropriate items. Your altar need not be a static display. Changing it throughout the year can reflect your own frame of mind as the seasons change.
One thing to consider when setting up an altar, is the direction it faces. It is traditional to have your altar facing North, but if that is just not possible due to the size or arrangement of your living space, then you may need to place it elsewhere.
If you choose to have items to represent the 4 elements, they are usually placed at their corresponding direction:
Fire - South (athame, candles)
Water - West (chalice, sea shells)
Earth - North (pentacle, bowl of salt or earth)
Air - East (incense, wand, feathers)
Including images to represent the God and/or Goddess are also ideal, like statues or artwork. Sometimes extra candles are used to represent the Deities. Overall, the items you choose to have on your altar is up to you.
Those following an eclectic path should feel free to create an altar that represents their own spirituality. If you are a member of a specific tradition, you may find that a certain altar layout is expected.
Once your altar is in place, remember that it is a sacred place and should be treated with respect. Whether or not you let other people touch the items is up to you, but some people feel that other people will bring 'outside' energy to your tools. Keep your altar dusted and clean too.
This isn't about how to find a coven, or how to start one. Just simply some things to think about if you are considering joining one. Some traditionalists say that you must be initiated into a coven in order to call yourself "Wiccan", but I prefer to take a less-formal approach and let each person decide for themselves.
Good Reasons to Join
You're interested in a tradition such as Gardnerian or Alexandrian. The beliefs and rituals of both these traditions are passed down from one coven to the next and typically not shared with outsiders. In order to truly understand what they are all about, you must be properly initiated.
You're looking to expand your horizons. There is certainly nothing wrong with doing ritual on your own, but it is a whole new experience doing ritual in a group. Being in a coven can teach you a lot about your own spirituality.
You need some structure. Face it, some people just don't get anything done unless there is some external motivation. Being in a group can help you keep your studies and spiritual growth on track.
You just like being part of a group. Group rituals raise more energy, and it can be lonely as a solitaire
Poor Reasons to Join
You feel you have to. Though some traditions do require coven membership, you can happily follow a Wiccan path without belonging to any group.
You want to have fun. Well, covens most certainly have fun together, and some covens are less formal than others; but it is a serious commitment to join a group and you should take it seriously. If you just want a social experience, I suggest finding a group in your area instead.
You're only interested in scholarly study. Study and learning are a big part of coven life, but there is an emotional component as well. As time passes, most coven members grow together like a family. If you do not want that kind of bond, you may be better off finding just a study group or take some classes.
Please note these are not hard and fast rules by any means. Just some things to think about.
If you decide that joining a coven is right for you, make sure to do some research! Talk to people, ask lots of questions and go with your gut. If something seems 'off' about a group of people, then keep looking.
Contrary to popular belief, a Book of Shadows is not a specific book or text. Many movies and television shows portray it as an ancient and mystical book filled with spells and incantations. Those new to the Craft soon realize that is not the case. Every Wiccan writes and keeps their own personal Book of Shadows. New Wiccans are often confused or overwhelmed with the prospect of creating such a book. Here is a guideline to help you start your own Book of Shadows (BoS).
First of all, there is no 'right' way to keep a BoS. There are as many variations as there are Wiccans. Some people don't even keep one. If you belong to a coven, there may be a Book of Shadows belonging to the group that you will be expected to copy from. If you are solitary, you'll have to start from scratch.
What to Use
The term Book of Shadows tends to conjure up large, leather-bound tomes with metal latches and buckles. Books like that are available but they are not cheap and can be cumbersome to use. Any blank book will do, even an artist's sketchbook. Binders can be a practical choice, because you can move the pages around as your collection of information grows. Some very modern Wiccans use a DoS (Disk of Shadows) and keep their material on computer.
Another frequent question about making a BoS is what to write with. Some want to keep a beautiful and traditional book, and think the best writing utensil is a quill and ink. While this may be a good idea, you don't want it to be too time consuming to take notes or record information. Your book just won't get used. A fountain pen is a good compromise, but any pen or pencil is fine.
What Goes in It?
Quite frankly, anything you want. Your BoS is a very personal book, and it is completely up to you what goes in. The kind of material tends to fall into 2 categories: reference or personal. Reference material may include useful correspondences, moon phase dates, Sabbat information, spells you might like to try, etc. You can find good reference material from books or on the Internet. Personal material might be a dream journal, poetry or artwork, results of spells you've done, recordings of astral work, etc.
Personally, I have two books. One is a large, 3-ring binder filled with computer printouts from various websites. This is my collection of reference material. I also keep a smaller, hand-written book for my more personal notes. I use a high-quality, roller ball pen for writing.
Don't let yourself get caught up in putting together the perfect Book of Shadows. If you start it and don't like how it's turning out, start another one. As time passes, you'll find it an invaluable tool.
This is not a complete list of every tradition that exists, but merely an introduction to the more common ones to help you understand the differences. Even within each tradition, there will be variations from coven to coven.
Gardnerian
This tradition is named for its founder, Gerald Gardner, who was one of the first to bring witchcraft back into the modern age. Gardnerian covens are strictly organized, and many details about their rituals are not available to non-initiates. Much of their knowledge can be traced back to Gardner himself, and is passed along as new covens are 'hived' off. There are ranks (degrees) that one can acquire through study and training.
Alexandrian
Alex Sanders was himself trained in the Gardnerian tradition, but his own teachings have spawned a distinct tradition. Much of the beliefs and rituals are similar to that of Gardnerian covens, but there are notable differences. Alexandrian covens do not hide their activities in the same way, and their rituals have evolved to include more elements of Ceremonial Magick.
Reclaiming
This tradition was founded by the author, Starhawk in 1980. There is a strong political and social element to the Reclaiming tradition. Reclaiming covens have no strict hierarchy, and the focus is on one's inner spirit and personal power. A unique part of the Reclaiming movement, are the Witch Camps. They are intensive annual retreats for study and ritual.
Dianic
The Dianic tradition is female-oriented, and was founded by Zsuzsanna Budapest in the 1970s. Some Dianic covens are women-only and their rituals focus on the Goddess, and some exclude the God altogether. Many rituals are related to Women's Mysteries. Covens lack any hierarchy and they do not require any formal initiation.
Eclectic
This is more of a term for Wiccans who follow no tradition, or at least not only one. Many solitary Wiccans have crafted their own paths, using bits and pieces from other traditions. Eclectic covens also exist, and they are usually rather informal and open.
British Traditional
This is actually a term for a family of traditions, specifically those who can trace their lineage back to authentic British origins. Both Gardnerian and Alexandrian covens are considered to be British Traditional groups, as are the many others who evolved from them.
In fact, the form your familiar chooses to take may be a message in itself, and may be completely unexpected. Familiars can fill many different roles in your life, including that of teacher, friend, healer or assistant. A familiar may arrive in the form of a family pet, but they should not be treated that simply. They are independent spirits that must be respected and honored. You will develop a strong psychic bond with your new companion, and he/she/it will likely show a clear interest in your ritual work. I can't really go into too much detail on how a familiar might become part of your life, or how it may assist you with your spiritual growth. Each person's relationship with their familiar is special, unique and individual.
Of course, your familiar might not even be a physical being. Having an astral familiar is also a possibility. Astral familiars usually take the form of regular animals, but they also may take the form of more exotic beasts (such as a dragon, perhaps). Working with astral familiars usually takes place during dreams or meditation. But working on the astral plane is a topic for another time.
During the Burning Times, animal familiars played a sizable role in the prosecution of 'witches'. It was believed at the time that all witches had an animal companion, that was really a demon in physical form. Seeing an animal in relationship with an accused individual would often be considered evidence to their witchery. Even something as meaningless as a mouse or fly in their jail cell. Even today, many non-Pagans who don't understand our beliefs consider any Pagan's animal companion to be an evil spirit in disguise.
You don't need to be in a coven to be initiated into Wicca. You can dedicate yourself to the Gods and Goddesses even if you're a solitary.
Purpose and Meaning of Initiation
There is no set standard on the number of, nor rituals for, Initiatory degrees within Wicca. The most popular standard has become, by default, three degrees. However, there are many valid individuals and groups who adhere to but a single Initiatory degree, some with and some without a prior Dedication ceremony. The lack of standards in recognizing Initiation degree status has become one of the rallying cries behind the effort to unify the Wiccan religious community. Such standards, supporters say, would place us on an easily identifiable level with other major religions practice today. The profits and losses of such a move are not debated here.
The purpose of any religious initiation is to effect a spiritual awakening within the Initiate. This is reflected in Wicca, although we understand it not so much as a new state, but rather as a "re-linking" of the Initiate with the Divine. Initiation opens doors to an expansion of consciousness and awareness from which flow greater knowledge, understanding, compassion, and empathy - the elements of which our magick is made.
Initiations ideally are performed by those at least one degree higher than the Initiate. Thus, a 1st degree aspirant may be initiated by one holding at least a 1st degree. A 2nd degree aspirant may be initiated by one already holding at least a 2nd degree, and so on. In some Traditions, only a male can initiate a female, and only a female can initiate a male. Some Traditions see it as necessary that both Priestess and Priest, on an equal and shared balance within the rite, should perform the initiations. Yet other Traditions hold that only the Priestess, as representative of the Goddess, can perform initiations, with her Priest assisting her as necessary. Within some of these latter groups, and in others who hold that the only true initiator in this mundane world is the Priestess, the presence of a Priest is not necessary. Other, less hierarchical groups, share the duties of initiation among everyone within the group.
There is also no set time limit on when an aspirant can be initiated, although the traditional time frame is after a year and a day of directed study. This is sometimes waived when the aspirant has previously studied alone or with another, and can pass any written, oral, or hands-on test of his knowledge to the satisfaction of the Elders of the petitioned group.
A student must request Initiation. There are two major factors behind this particular tradition. First and foremost, petitioning for an initiation demonstrates that the aspirant understands that they, alone, are responsible for their own destiny. The request for Initiation is an acknowledgment by the would-be initiate that they understand they control their fate, not anyone or anything outside themselves. Secondly, Wicca is a non-proselytizing religion. We are not looking for converts. Sheer numbers of adherents do not make a religion valid in our way of belief. Much better to have a few sincere Seekers who have recognized the Lady's touch upon their hearts, than a multitude of "plastic pagans." Thus, only those who have demonstrated a firm commitment to the Lady and this path by their words, actions, and initiatives are considered for this important step.
Entry into a group is not a given. Most teaching groups acknowledge two types of Initiation: an Initiation into the Craft of the Wise and a separate coven initiation. If a student of a teaching coven is to also become a member of that coven, both initiations are often blended within one ritual. However, no student should ever assume that he will become a member of the teaching coven simply because he is being taught by one or more within that group.
Acceptance within a coven is a privilege; not a right. An initiation creates a strong emotional bond and tie between coven members, and so an initiation request should not be considered lightly by either the aspirant or the coven; and, as always, the High Priestess has the final word. However, because of the deep bond initiation creates between the coven sibs, tradition dictates that the decision to accept a new person into the coven must be unanimous. If only one person in the coven disagrees, can state good reason, and cannot be persuaded otherwise by coven siblings, then entrance is denied to the Initiate. Again, the High Priestess has the final word in all things coven-related, but group dynamics will usually dictate that she abide by the decision of the coven for the good of the whole, unless she has been shown otherwise by the Lady, Herself.
Initiation is filled with both obvious and subtle symbolism, each according to the degree being initiated. Death and rebirth is the theme of all initiations, and the movements within the initiation reflect this. To those not of this path, an Initiation ritual can look like an exercise in theater at best, and sheer bondage and domination at worst. But each element of the ritual reflects a specific symbol that we recognize as an imperative.
For example, some covens do Initiations skyclad. Other groups are robed, but all jewelry, makeup, and anything extraneous to the individual is forbidden to the Initiate. This symbolizes the Initiate has come to an inner understanding of the phrase "perfect love and perfect trust," for at this point, he is open, vulnerable, and completely at the mercy of those within the Circle. He has looked within and faced the shadow self, recognizing both its merit and demerit, and now trusts those with him now to see and appreciate him for both what he is and what he is not.
Binding an initiate is symbolic of our spiritual and physical state prior to Initiation. It represents the limitations and restrictions the individual placed upon himself prior to this moment, and is a graphic representation to the Initiate that he has, to now, been bound to this mundane world of materialism and egocentricity.
In accepting the blindfold, the Initiate recognizes that he has lived his life to now in darkness; never seeing the true self, the vital integration of shadow and light; never fully recognizing the Lady's light that surrounds and is within everything. It is an acknowledgment of the danger of seeking in the Mundane world; the peril coming in the guise of artifices to which the Seeker may have been blind.
And thus, standing at the outer edge of the Circle both blindfolded and bound, the Initiate is suspended between two worlds, a part of neither and yet, of both; awaiting freedom, yet fearing release from his bonds. He is challenged and, if successful, is granted entrance into the Circle.
The elements of the ritual which occur within the Circle are symbolic of our belief in birth, death, and rebirth. Being giving admittance to the Circle, the initiate is as a newly born child. He sees, but it is his own self he sees through the darkness; he hears, but in muffled and sometimes unintelligible tones. As the ritual progresses, he sees deeper within himself, and hears more strongly the voice of the Lady through Her Representative. Eventually, he symbolically dies and is then reborn; the cords and darkness that once bound him now cast off.
Thus, the Initiation ceremony is a window on our view of life; reflective of our strong belief in the influence of the Wheel of the Year upon our lives, and a catalyst to the re-linking with the Divine in all things. It is a rite of passage that transforms each person in different ways, and forces them to grow beyond their current karma. It is the Initiate's pledge of a deep and personal commitment to the Lady and Her Lord, and is a gift of love and power from Them. Words pale, for it is an experience which must be felt; verbal language alone can never convey the regenerative depths to which the Initiate has traveled, the warmth and love with which the Lady has wrapped him, nor the intense joy he feels upon being accepted into the "family" by his coven mates. He has accepted the challenge that life will never be exactly the same after taking this most important step.
Using spells from other people is OK, but casting spells that you wrote yourself will give more power to your magick. It's not difficult, once you understand the basics.
Preliminary planning is necessary. The very first step is to decide precisely what your desired end result is to be. Before you can start, you must decide where you are going. You must be very explicit.
It is important, also, that you choose your time carefully. You should take into consideration all Astrological implications, energy currents and Moon phases.
The Moon is the astronomical body closest to us and, therefore, has a profound influence upon us, it is very important to choose a time when the Moon is in an astrological sign which is appropriate for your working. For example: Aries/Action -- Enthusiasm, Taurus/Renewal -- Sensuality, Gemini/Communication -- Curiosity, Cancer/Emotion -- Nurturing, Leo/Vitality -- Determined, Virgo/Organizing -- Studious, Libra/Balance -- Cooperation, Scorpio/Sexual -- Philosophical, Capricorn/Authority -- Ambitious, Aquarius/Innovation -- Social, Pisces/Sensitivity -- Idealistic.
Bear in mind that magickal workings for gain, increase or bringing things to you, should be initiated when the Moon is Waxing (from Dark to Full); when the Moon is Waning (from Full to Dark), it is time for magickal workings of decrease or sending away.
The highest energy occurs at the Full Moon and, therefore, this is the most powerful time for magickal workings. The New Moon is the next most powerful time for Magick.
Whenever possible, follow Nature's own energy flows. There is a natural time for starting things (a planting time), for maturing things (a growing time), for reaping things (a harvest time) and, of course, a time for rest and planning.
Flowing with these currents will make your magickal work much easier.
Remember to plan your project for a time of uninterrupted privacy. It is important that you have no distractions. Generally speaking, it is best to work as late at night as possible. A time when there is less frantic energy is most appropriate. You might consider Midnight or later.
In choosing a place to do your magickal working pay particular attention to your needs, for you must be comfortable. Your place should be private, quiet and secure. If at all possible, set aside a special place for this purpose only. An unused room, a special corner of your bedroom, a quiet, secluded spot in your garden. A place that is yours. A place that you can come to whenever need arises and that is as free from intrusion of others as possible.
Prior to the night of your magickal working, gather together the things that you will need. All of the things used are tools. They have no inherent magick. They are to help you create a mood. If correctly made and used, they will trigger primitive responses from deep within you. They should be chosen with care. Consider the purpose of your ritual and choose your tools accordingly. If your magick is to be sexual, your candles, oils, incenses and so forth should bring forth a sexual response. If the desired result of your Magick is tranquillity, then the tools should make you feel calm, peaceful and serene. Any candles you might use should not have commercially added fragrances as these may not be appropriate for your working.
Prior to your ritual, prepare yourself and your equipment by any means necessary to clean and purify. Historically, people have fasted, followed meticulous and detailed bathing practices, practice chastity and used many other methods.
Most often a ritual bath is the preferred method. A bath frequently utilizing candlelight, fragrant herbs, bath salts or sensuous oils. A sumptuous hot bath, special bathing preparations and appropriate lighting, combined, can create the soothing effect which will help in the very important step of relaxing and clearing the mind completely of all mundane thoughts and experiences of the day. Your ritual bath should, also, begin to set the specific vibrations conducive to your purpose into motion. You must not only cleanse and purify but must also begin to create the type of energy necessary. Once your purification process has been accomplished, you are now ready to begin. Proceed to the special place you have previously chosen in which to perform your magick. If at all possible, you should make use of the primitive responses set into motion by a well chosen piece of music. Your music should start slowly and build to a rousing climax.
As you use your oils, light your candle or incense (or utilize any other tool you have chosen), you should begin to further intensify the energy that you have set into motion around you. A high degree of intensity is vitally important.
The Altered State of Consciousness that you must reach is not a meditative state. Anything that interferes with your ability to concentrate upon, reach and control the high energy state necessary to perform magick should be avoided, such as screaming children, a sink full of dirty dishes, use of alcohol or drugs, etc.
Do not scatter your energy by attempting to do more than one magickal working at a time.
Remember that Magick is the manipulation of energy, a thought is a form of energy and a visualization is an even stronger form of energy. Your visualization can be a method used to intensify further and direct your will. Your visualization can be the method by which you control the magickal energy you have produced. You must know what you want. You must see it. You must feel the high energy flow. You must direct it.
One of the most important elements in the practice of any form of Magick is the Universal Law of Cause and Effect. This means that whatever you do (or don't do) you cause something to happen.
The most important consideration is the Universal Law of Retribution. This means that no matter what you do, it comes back to you in like kind.
It is the nature of things that as you send something out it gains momentum, so that, by the time it comes back to you, it is three times stronger. If you do something nice for someone, someone will do something nicer for you.
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