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Paganism / Wicca

Basics of Wicca & Paganism

By , About.com Guide

Want to learn about the basic principles and concepts of Wicca and modern Paganism? Here's where you'll find information about gods and goddesses, beliefs, recommended reading material, beginner's information on Tarot, candle magic, and more.
  1. Take an Online Class!
  2. What Do Wiccans Believe?
  3. Beginner's Guides
  4. The Gods and Goddesses
  5. Pagan/Wiccan Library
  6. Important People to Know
  1. Pagan/Wiccan FAQs
  2. Pagans and Christianity
  3. Using Tarot Cards
  4. Tools of Divination
  5. Book of Shadows
  6. Magical Theory

Take an Online Class!

This is a collection of online classes available through the Pagan/Wiccan website. In addition to our Intro to Wicca class, the Seven-Day Sabbats will be added as they are ready. Feel free to sign up for one, or take them all!

What Do Wiccans Believe?

What are some of the guiding principles of Wicca? Read more here to find out what exactly it is that Wiccans and Pagans actually believe in.

Beginner's Guides

You've discovered Wicca might be the right path for you, but now what do you do? Read on for information about the basics of candle magic, Tarot, and altar tools.

The Gods and Goddesses

In most forms of Paganism, including Wicca, part of the process of spiritual growth involves interaction with the gods. But how, exactly, do you go about this? Well, you can make offerings, send them prayers, and make sure you honor them in a respectful manner. It's also important to get to know the gods of your particular tradition.

Pagan/Wiccan Library

Wondering what you need to read, and which authors are worth checking out? Be sure to look here for book reviews, sacred texts, author interviews and profiles, and information on which books every Pagan or Wiccan should have on their reading list.

Important People to Know

Meet some of the people who are profiled and mentioned regularly on this website. Some are authors, others are historical figures, and a few more are scholars. Learn who they are, and why they matter to people studying Wicca and other Pagan religions.

Pagan/Wiccan FAQs

Wondering about initiation, and whether you need it? Concerned about whether you might go to hell? Got questions about what exactly Wiccans do in private, and if they have to be naked to do it? Well, you're in the right place! Here's where we'll answer some of the most popular Frequently Asked Questions about Wicca and Paganism!

Pagans and Christianity

Many Wiccans and other Pagans are former Christians, and have some concerns about how they'll practice their new beliefs. Also, many of us have Christian family members, so sometimes it can be hard to answer questions that our non-Pagan family might have. Here are some of our most popular articles on how Wiccans, Pagans and Christians can all co-exist together, as well as some of the common questions that Christians might ask you about your beliefs.

Using Tarot Cards

Tarot is one of the best known forms of divination, and it can be done in many ways. Learn about how to read the cards, what to do if a reading fails, the Major Arcana, and reviews of popular decks.

Tools of Divination

In addition to the Tarot, there are a number of other forms of divination. Learn about the Celtic Ogham, Norse Runes, Ouija boards, and more.

Book of Shadows

Looking for information on spellwork, herbs, stones, moon phases, crystals, candles, oils, recipes and more? Here's where you'll find it!

Magical Theory

Many Wiccans and Pagans use magic as part of ritual or incorporate into their daily lives. Here are some of the basics you'll need to know about spellwork, magic, and how to put it all together.

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