The Wiccan Rede, or creed, is the central tenet that most Wiccans follow, which is: “If You Harm None, Do What You Will. ” This creed values the harmony with which one should live their life, and as long as your actions do not hurt others or infringe upon their ability to live their lives, then proceed as you will. The threefold rule is also central to Wiccan beliefs, which is the idea that whatever you do will come back to you threefold. This can happen in a positive or negative way. Wiccans take responsibility for their own actions. This is the belief that you have sole responsibility for your words and actions. You alone determine how you act and react to outside forces, and making amends to those who you have treated poorly is the best approach to taking responsibility. [3] X Research source Harmony with nature is a key aspect, as is the sacredness of all life. Wiccans recognize that people live in partnership with the earth and rely on the earth’s bounty to survive. Nature and life occur in a cycle, and people are very much part of that. Related to this is the belief in reincarnation in some form. Things in nature keep returning, whether it is sea water that returns as clouds or clouds that return as rain, and so on. This also influences how Wiccans perceive death; death is also a part of the cycle of nature. [4] X Research source There are many different forms of Wicca. According to Circle Sanctuary, “Hereditary, Shamanic, Gardnerian, Alexandrian, Celtic, Traditionalist, Dianic, Faerie, and Eclectic are just some of the variety of Wiccan traditions or paths. ”[5] X Research source These each have specific beliefs and rituals.
Practice meditation and visualization exercises to enhance concentration for using magick. Make a quiet space for yourself where you can meditate without interruption. [14] X Research source
Collect symbols that signify a balance of nature. These objects will represent fire, water, air, and earth. It is fine to use objects that are readily available, such as a candle for fire, a glass of water for water, and so on. In a circle around you, place the water in the west, earth in the north, the air in the east and fire in the south. Walk or swing your arm around in a clockwise manner three times. Close the circle by reciting, “Thrice I cast this circle ’round, sacred is this holy ground. ” This creates a space between you and the physical world in which to make your dedication. Make a statement about why you want to follow Wicca. Attest that you will follow the Rede (“If You Harm None, Do What You Will. ”). Open the circle back up by walking or waving your arm three times counterclockwise. [17] X Research source
It is not necessary to join a coven to practice Wicca. Like any religion, Wicca can be an individual activity or it can be practiced in a group setting. You may not have an adequate community in your local area, or perhaps you have tried to be in a group setting and it hasn’t worked out. Practicing as a solitary Wiccan can be lonely, but it can also be liberating. You can remain as true to yourself as you allow yourself to be. A circle is a loose gathering of people who might only meet periodically, but they gain support from each other. A coven is a more formal gathering of people, and they are often closed to outsiders. They demand trust and respect, but can often be subject to personality clashes or egos. [19] X Research source
Samhain (end of summer, around October 31) Yule (winter solstice, around December 20-23) Imbolc (February 1) Ostara (spring equinox, around March 21) Beltane (April 30-May 1) Litha (summer solstice, around June 21) Lughnasadh (July 31-August 1, first day of harvest season) Mabon (autumn equinox, around September 21)
