Paganism / Wicca

  1. Home
  2. Religion & Spirituality
  3. Paganism / Wicca

Paganism / Wicca: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Sacred Places
The British Isles and Europe don't have a monopoly on sacred places. There are a number of sites in the United States that are places of magical energy and power. Learn about ten amazing places in the U.S. that draw natural energy from the earth.
2009 Pagan/Wiccan Calendar
Trying to plan your holidays in advance? There are a number of celebrations for Pagans and Wiccans throughout 2009. Check here for the dates for upcoming Sabbats in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, as well as full moon dates.
Ley Lines
Ley lines are often described in earth-based spirituality. But what are these lines, and how do they connect one place to another?
Create Your Book of Shadows
In Wicca and Paganism, it's traditional to create a Book of Shadows, which is a notebook containing information regarding your tradition, gods and goddesses, correspondence tables, sabbat and esbat rites and rituals, magical recipes, and more. Learn how to make your own BOS here.
How to Cleanse Sacred Space
Many of the Pagan and Wiccan books and websites - including this one - mention the idea of "cleansing" or "purifying" a space before ritual work. But how, exactly, do you do that? Learn how, using these simple techniques.
Basic Principles and Concepts
There's a lot of information out there about Wicca, and if you're just beginning your studies, it's hard to get a good handle on what is what. While each Wiccan tradition or group may have its own set of specific beliefs, there are a few basic principles common to nearly every Wiccan path.
The Four Elements
Many followers of Wicca and Paganism feel a connection to the four classical elements: earth, air, fire and water. Each connects to a cardinal direction on a compass, and each is associated with a number of different characteristics and attributes.
Cast a Circle
We've all read about the idea of Casting a Circle, but what does it really mean, and how is it done? What is the significance of the Circle in Wiccan and Pagan worship?
Your Magical Name
Many Wiccans and Pagans choose to select a new name to use in ritual and ceremony -- in some cases it's a name shared only with the gods. Learn how you can find the magical name or craft name that's right for you.
Paganism Factoids
So you think you're ready to become Pagan or Wiccan? Here are ten factoids you really need to know before you take that step.
Pagan and Wiccan Prayers
Looking for a prayer for a special event or ceremony? Check here for our ever-growing list of Pagan and Wiccan prayers!
Make Your Own Smudge Sticks
Smudge sticks are used by many Pagans and Wiccans as part of ritual and ceremony. While it's certainly convenient to buy them at the store, it's also very easy to make your own - and you get to pick which herbs are in it! Here's how to make a your own smudge sticks to use.
Warrior Pagans
A reader wants to know how "peaceful Pagans" can feel comfortable following a warrior mentality.
Write Your Own Spell
There are hundreds of books available on how to write your own Wiccan and Pagan spells, and thousands of spells available on the Internet. But what if you want to write your own spell? Do you need to have decades of experience? You might be surprised to learn that by following a few easy steps, anyone can write an effective spell.
Candle Magic 101
Many Wiccans and Pagans use candles as part of their magical workings. Learn about the basics of candle magic, which colors to use and how to anoint your candles before using them in ritual.
What Is a Spirit Guide?
Lots of people believe they have spirit guides -- but how do you know that it's not just your imagination? Learn about some of the different types of spirit guides -- and how to tell if your spirit guide is really there to help.
Getting Started in Wicca
So you're interested in Wicca but have no idea how to begin learning and studying? Don't worry - we've got the basics here of what you need to know as you get started.
Magical Tools
Ever wonder what you can do with a wand, cauldron, or chalice? Trying to figure out what tools you absolutely have to have on your altar? Read on for information about some of the most commonly used tools of the Craft.
What is Lammas (Lughnasadh)?
Lammas, also called Lughnasadh, falls at the beginning of the harvest season. Apples are ready and grain is beginning to ripen. It's also a day for honoring Lugh, the Celtic craftsman god. Learn about traditions and rituals for celebrating this early harvest holiday.
Reader's Starter Kit
Many people come to Wicca seeking something new in their life -- but there's a LOT of information out there to absorb. How do you know which books are good, and which ones are best used as a door stop? Here's a list of thirteen books from a variety of sources that any Wiccan seeker should have in their personal library.
Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor has long been known as a place of myth and magic. Learn about the Tor and how its legends came to be.
Tarot 101
If you're ready to start learning about reading Tarot cards, how they work, different spreads, and the best decks to use, this is the place to start.
Self-Dedication Ritual
Many modern Pagans and Wiccans choose not to be part of a coven or group. Because one of the benefits of joining a group is initiation, if you're practicing as a solitary you may choose to perform a self-dedication rite as a way of declaring yourself to the deities of your tradition.
Eye of Ra
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Rule of Three
What is the Rule of Three, and why does it play such an important role in modern Paganism and Wicca? Does it apply to everyone, or is it just a bunch of fluffy New Age mumbo-jumbo?
Pagan & Wiccan Food Blessing
Many religions say a blessing over their food and drink, because consumption is a constant reminder of our link to the earth. The following short prayers can be said before a meal, a Cakes and Ale ceremony, or any other time you like.
Differences in Paths
What's the difference between Wicca, Witchcraft and Paganism? Or are they all just the same thing with different names?
Triple Horn of Odin
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Pagan Baby Names
Tired of all the Britneys and Dakotas running around, and want to choose a baby name that better reflects your family's beliefs? Before you go naming your child Fairypuddle, read this article about selecting a baby name with a Pagan theme.
Bighorn Medicine Wheel
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel isn't easy to get to, but it's been recognized as a place of spiritual power for hundreds of years. Sacred to several Native American groups, the Medicine Wheel is steeped in mystery.
Stone Circles
Stone circles exist in many locations around Europe and the rest of the world, but what are they? Why were they put there in the first place?
Introduction to Wicca
Wicca for Beginners
Baby Naming Ceremony
Few things in life are as important as one's name, and for Wiccan and Pagan families, a naming ceremony is a joyful alternative to traditional baptisms. It's a chance to welcome your child into the community of family and friends, and to bless them with the name you have chosen for your new baby.
Blessing Moon
July's full moon is known as the blessing moon, and is associated with certain herbs, trees, and deities.
Thyme
Thyme has many magical and therapeutic properties. Learn about the many different uses of thyme.
Consecrate Your Magical Tools
What should you do with a wand or athame when you first get it? Many Wiccans and Pagans perform a consecration ritual on their magical tools. It's not hard to do, and can be incorporated into any other ceremony. Learn how to consecrate your magical tools with this simple ritual invoking the energies of the four classical elements.
Setting Up Your Magical Altar
So you've decided to set up an altar space of your own - awesome! But where do you put stuff? What goes where? What if you run out of room? Don't panic - everything you need to know for a basic altar setup is here.
Prayers for a Deceased Pet
If you've lost a pet, it can be hard to let go. These prayers can be used for a family memorial for your deceased friend, from goldfish to dogs and cats.
Hold a Seance
Many Wiccans and Pagans communicate with the spirit world by way of holding seances. Before you have a seance of your own, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Are There Rules In Wicca?
Are there any rules involved in Paganism or Wicca, or is it just a magical free-for-all where everyone does as they please? Find out what standards most Wiccan and Pagan groups set for themselves.
Full Moon Esbat Rite
In addition to the eight Sabbats, many Wiccans and Pagans celebrate regularly with an Esbat. This is a time of spellwork and magic, as well as of communing with the Divine, traditionally held at the time of the full moon. You can hold this Esbat ritual either alone or as part of a group.
Celtic Shield Knot
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Is Magic Real?
Is magic real? Depends on who you ask, but most Wiccans and Pagans will tell you they accept magic as part of their daily life. Most people don't practice magic at all -- why on earth not, if it's real? Some of the reasons might be simpler than you think.
Wiccan Sabbat Rituals
As the Wheel of the Year turns and the eight Wiccan Sabbats pass by, many people like to celebrate with special ceremonies and rituals. Learn about the different Sabbats, what they mean, and how you can celebrate with your group or as a solitary practitioner.
The Great Serpent Mound
In a small southern Ohio community, there lies an effigy mound in the shape of a serpent, and it is a place of power and magic. Who built the Great Serpent Mound, and what is it for?
Magical Herb Use
Need to do a working but not sure which herbs are appropriate? Check out this list of correspondences -- it's listed by intent, so all you'll need to do is set a goal and then find your herbs!
Hecate's Wheel
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Lammas Harvest Ritual
Lammas is the first of three harvest Sabbats, and celebrates the crops of late summer and early autumn. If you wish to honor the Harvest Mother aspect of the Goddess and celebrate the cycle of life and rebirth, hold this Lammas rite either with a group or as a solitary practitioner.
Are Wiccans Satanists?
Are Pagans and Wiccans a bunch of devil-worshippers? Are they performing naughty naked rituals? Well, no... let's talk about why that's a myth.
Ankh
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Sacred Springs, Holy Wells
Many places in Europe and the British Isles are known for their magical waters. But why are these springs and wells considered sacred?
Baby Blessings
Hold a baby blessing ceremony to welcome your new arrival, and to introduce your little one to the gods of your tradition. By combining these two rites, the child is joined to both the earth and the heavens at the same time.
Myths and Misconceptions
There is a lot of false information floating around out there about Wicca and Paganism. Learn about some of the most common myths and misconceptions, and clear up the truth about Wicca.
Triquetra
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Make a Loaf of Lammas Bread
Lammas is all about the harvest, and what better way to celebrate than with a fresh loaf of ritual bread? After all, the word Lammas comes from "loaf mass", so bake this easy bread-man, and use him in rituals to honor the god of the grain.
Is That a Deity Calling?
How do you know if a deity is trying to get your attention? Here are some things to watch for.
Triple Moon
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Many paths, many names
Are Wicca, Witchcraft and Paganism the same thing? Not exactly. Learn what some of the differences are.
Bedtime Prayers for Kids
Looking for a bedtime prayer for your child? Forget about that whole "now I lay me down to sleep" thing - here are prayers for a variety of Pagan and Wiccan themes. From deity focused to silly chants, read on for more Pagan children's bedtime prayers.
The Land's End Labyrinth
High on a rocky mountainside, just a few minutes from San Francisco, there is a labyrinth in a public park. Take some time to check it out, because it's an absolutely magical place.
Make a Ritual Robe
Although many Wiccans and Pagans prefer to practice skyclad, sometimes it's just not practical -- and that's when you need a good ritual robe. You can buy them commerically, but for a lot of people it's just more satisfying to make their own. You can assemble a simple ritual robe by following these basic steps.
Eye of Horus
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Drawing Down the Moon
This beautiful and powerful ritual is one in which the practitioner invokes the Goddess directly into herself (or himself, as the case may be). In some variations of this ritual, a High Priestess (HPs) may go into a trancelike state and speak the words of the Goddess, and in others, it may be a formal monologue calling upon the Goddess in her many forms.
Croning Ceremony
More and more women are celebrating the third stage of life by having a Croning Ceremony. Rather than hiding our maturity, we're honoring and welcoming it. Learn what a Croning ceremony is, and get some tips on how to hold one for yourself or a friend.
The Wiccan Rede
Used as a guideline in many Wiccan traditions, the concept of the Wiccan Rede encourages practitioners to be cautious about harming others, and in fact delivers the warning, "Harm None."
Catnip
In addition to being the plant of choice for our feline friends, catnip has a number of magical properties you can use in workings of your own.
Pentacle
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Triple Spiral - Triskele
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Handfasting History
Handfasting was common centuries ago in the British Isles, and then vanished for a while. Now, however, it's seeing a rising popularity among Wiccan and Pagan couples who are interested in tying the knot. Find out where this custom came from, and what brought it back.
Find a Coven
What is a coven, and what are some of the benefits and pitfalls of joining one? Learn about coven dynamics, and most importantly, where to meet the people whose groups you want to join.
Make a Rain Barrel for Lammas
By the time Lammas (or Lughnasadh) rolls around, the fields are often dry and brown. Water becomes scarce as the summer progresses. Why not do your part to help the environment, and help conserve water by using a rain barrel to water your plants?
Lammas History
Ever wonder why Lammas is such a big deal in some Pagan traditions? Learn about the history of Lammas and how harvest festivals have been documented back thousands of years. A time of grain and fruit, Lammas (also called Lughnasadh) is the first of three Pagan harvest celebrations. In some traditions, it's the day to honor Lugh, the Celtic craftsman god.
Isis
Isis was a great goddess of the Ancient Egyptians, and sister/consort of Osiris. She is honored today by some Pagans as the archetype of the mother and wife, and a goddess of mystery and magic.
Cerridwen
Cerridwen is known in Welsh mythology as the keeper of the Cauldron of the Underworld in which knowledge and inspiration are brewed. She is considered a goddess of prophetic powers, and because her symbol is the Cauldron, she is an honored goddess in many Wiccan and Pagan traditions.
Festival Etiquette
You're getting ready to attend your first Pagan or Wiccan festival or other public event -- that's awesome! Being prepared, though, with some simple "Do"s and "Don't"s, will help you have a much more positive experience. Follow the guidelines for proper festival etiquette, and you'll probably be invited back again next time!
How to Plan a Ritual
So you'd like to host a ritual of your own. Great! But if you've never done it before, it can be a little overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider when you're planning a ritual on your own.
Summer Full Moon Ceremony
Instead of a regular Esbat rite, some Wiccan and Pagan groups tailor their full moon celebrations to the season. This ceremony is designed for a group of at least four people, and can be held during any of the sunny summer months.
Magical Oils 101
Learn the basics of blending your own magical oils. With just a few simple tips, you'll be able to make your own concoctions in no time at all.
A Prayer for the Dying
This prayer is one which may be said by or on behalf of a dying person, and addresses the need we have to feel at home in the last moments of life before crossing over. If you're Pagan or Wiccan, and looking for the equivalent of a "last rites" sort of prayer, this may be helpful to you if you have a loved one who is terminally ill or in hospice care.
Definition
What is skyclad, and do all Wiccans and Pagans use it?
Crystals and Gemstones
Many Wiccans and Pagans use crystals and gemstones in workings, because every stone is connected to some aspect of the human experience. Learn about the therapeutic and magical properties of different stones, as well as how they are best used in magical practice.
Horned God
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Ouija Boards
We've all heard about Ouija boards as a form of divination, as well as the corresponding cautionary tales. Just how safe is it to use a Ouija board?
Living a Magical Life
Many people ask what it means to "live a magical life" as a Wiccan or Pagan. It's quite simple -- it just means to live in a way that's compatible with a belief system all the time, not just when it's convenient. Learn about ways you can live a more magical life.
Gardnerian Wicca
When Gerald Gardner founded Wicca in the 1950s, he set the wheels turning for countless other traditions to form. Many of today's Wiccan covens can trace their origins back to Gardner, but the Gardnerians path itself remains initiatory and oathbound.
The Role of Prayer
Prayer is a conversation, sometimes one-sided and sometimes not, between us and the Divine. Although some Pagans and Wiccans pooh-pooh the idea of prayer as being a Christian exercise, many more understand it as a way to take a step closer to our gods.
Air
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Sample Handfasting Ceremony
Thinking about having a handfasting instead of a traditional wedding? Here's a sample ceremony that you can use and tweak to fit your own needs and beliefs.
2008 Pagan/Wiccan Calendar
Trying to plan your holidays in advance? There are a number of celebrations throughout the rest of 2008. Check here for the dates for upcoming Sabbats in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere, as well as full moon dates.
How Magic Works
Wondering why you keep hearing Pagans and Wiccans talk about magical energy, correspondences, or chatting with their gods? Believe it or not, there are a number of schools of thought as to how magic actually works.
Celtic Tree Months
The Celtic tree calendar is based upon thirteen lunar months. Each is named for a letter in the Celtic alphabet. Learn about the thirteen tree months, and how they are used in magical workings.
Summer Reading: Witchy Fiction
Looking for a good summertime read that features magic, witchcraft, and elements of Paganism? Then look no further! Here are ten titles that will keep you busy during the summer months!
Blood Moon
October's Blood Moon brings with it cool, clear nights and the knowledge that winter is around the corner. It's also a time for spiritual growth, because it's when the veil between this world and the next is at its thinnest.
Prayers for a Deceased Pet Dog
Dogs are loyal, trusting, and faithful companions. If your pet dog has crossed over, you may wish to offer up one of these prayers to honor him on the journey.
Deities of Death
In many cultures, gods of the underworld and death are celebrated during the harvest time. Learn about these gods and goddesses who preside over the domain of the dead.
Seax Wica
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Blessing Oil
This oil can be blended together in advance and used for any ritual requiring blessing, anointing or consecration oil.
Do Wiccans Practice Nude?
There are a lot of rumors floating around out there about whether Wiccans practice nude. So... do they?
Elven Star
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Fire
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Thor's Hammer - Mjolnir
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Make Your Own Besom
The besom is the traditional witch's broom, and while you can certainly buy one in a store, there's some degree of satifaction in making your own. Learn how to create a besom with natural items in just a few steps.
Make Your Own Altar Pentacle
You can spend a small fortune on altar tools and magical supplies, but if you'd like to make your own pentacle, follow these simple steps.
Prayers for Litha
Midsummer is the time when we celebrate the bounty of the earth and the power of the sun. Our fields are flourishing, fruits are blossoming on the trees, herb bushes are fragrant and full of life. Consider offering a few prayers to the gods of your tradition at Litha, or to the sun iteself.
Paganism / Wicca - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Paganism / Wicca guide site.
Altar
What is an altar, and what's it for?
Belief in God?
What do Pagans and Wiccans think about the concept of "God"? The answer might surprise you.
Mother Goddesses
Who were some of the ancient mother goddess figures? Were they separate individuals, or was there one all-encompassing deity in the pre-Christian world?
Working With the Gods
In most Pagan and Wiccan traditions, interaction with the Divine is a key part of the belief system. But how do you know which gods to call upon, particularly if your tradition is an eclectic one with no set guidelines? Learn about the different types of gods, who they are, and when it's appropriate to ask for their assistance.
Paganism / Wicca - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Paganism / Wicca guide site.
Solar Cross
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Asatru
The Asatru tradition is a reconstructionist path that focuses on pre-Christian Norse spirituality. The movement began in the 1970s as part of a revival of Germanic paganism, and numerous Asatru groups exist in the United States and other countries.
Celtic Baby Names - Girl
Looking for a Celtic baby name for your little girl? Here's a collection of names as well as their meanings!
Keep Your Tarot Cards Safe
Now that you've found the Tarot deck that's right for you, there are a few things you should do to keep your cards not only physically safe, but also to shield them from negative energy.
The Celtic Cross Spread
The Celtic Cross is one of the best known layouts for Tarot readings. Learn how to use this in-depth spread to get answers to your questions.
Earth
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
What is a Power Animal?
Some spiritual paths use animals as metaphysical guides. Find out what a power animal is, and why they might appear.
Interpret the Tarot Cards
Once you've got a pile of Tarot cards down in front of you, how do you interpret the messages within them?
Celtic Baby Names - Boy
Looking for a Celtic baby name for your little boy? Many Celtic boys' names emphasis strength, heroism, and masculinity. Here's a collection of names as well as their meanings!
Handfasting Tips
So you've set a date for your handfasting -- congratulations! Now the fun really begins. Here are some helpful tips on how to have the best ceremony you possibly can.
Brighid - Irish Hearth Goddess
A daughter of the Dagda, Brighid is one of the classic triple goddesses of the Celtic pantheon. Many Pagans and Wiccans honor her today as a goddess of the hearth and home, and divination and prophecy.
Lammas Bread Sacrifice Ritual
Lammas is a time of celebrating the beginning of the harvest, a theme seen often in the sacrifice of the grain god. Make a sacrifice of your own this Lammas, with this bread ritual that celebrates the beginning of the harvest.
Incense 101
For thousands of years, people have used fragrant flowers, plants, and herbs as incense. Using smoke to send prayers out to the gods is one of the oldest known forms of ceremony. From the censers of the Catholic church to the Pagan bonfire rituals, incense is a powerful way to let your intent be known. You can make your own quite easily, using a blend of herbs, flowers, wood bark, resins, and berries. Most of these are items you can grow yourself, find in the woods, or purchase inexpensively.
0 - The Fool
Who is the Fool in the Major Arcana of the Tarot, and what does he represent in a divinatory reading?
Moon Names - Southern Hem.
If you live in the southern hemisphere, your moon phases will be different from the ones on traditional neo-Pagan calendars. Here's how you can calculate the name of the moon cycle if you live south of the Equator.
Meditation 101
Ever wonder what meditation is and how it works? Now's your chance to get the basics on meditation and what it can do for you.
Water
In Paganism and Wicca, many traditions use symbols in ritual and magic. Learn about some of the most commonly seen Wiccan and Pagan symbols and their meanings.
Make a Brighid Corn Doll
There's an old custom of making a corn or grain effigy of Brighid. By placing her in a place of honor in the home, you can invite fertility and abundance your way.
The Magical Moon Garden
While most people think of their gardens as a place of sun and light, there are a number of plants that thrive nocturnally. Consider planting a magical moon garden, so you can enjoy the benefits of your efforts under a night sky instead.
Celebrate the New Moon
In some traditions, the appearance of the New Moon each month is even more important than the night of the Full Moon. This ritual is a very basic one that can be done either as a solitary or as part of a group. The welcoming theme makes it a good one to use if you're teaching young children about Pagan and Wiccan spirituality.
All About Yule
No matter how you celebrate it, the winter solstice is traditionally a time for all kinds of festivities, feasting, and fun. Here's where you'll find all the Yule-related topics rolled into one handy place.
The Norse Runes
What are the Norse Runes, and how are they used? Learn the basic background of this ancient alphabet, and how they've become a powerful form of divination.
Kitchen Witchery
The phrase "kitchen witchery" is becoming more and more popular among Pagans and Wiccans. Find out what exactly kitchen witchery, or kitchen witchcraft, means and learn how you can incorporate kitchen witch practices into your daily life.
Initiation: Necessary or Not?
Some people say you can't be Wiccan unless you're initated, others believe that anyone can be Wiccan if they want to. So which is it? Well, like many issues in Wicca and modern Paganism, it all depends on who you ask.
Make a Witch's Ladder
The witch's ladder is a magical tool that has been around for a while. You can use it in spellwork, meditation, or for any other sort of ritual working. Learn how to make one with items you probably already have lying around your home!
Is Harry Potter Magic Real?
Can you really disarm an enemy by shouting "Expelliarmus" or turn on the lights with a flick of the wand? Well, no, but you'd be surprised how much of JK Rowling's fictional world is based on real magical theory.
Pagan Clergy Listings
Are you looking for Pagan or Wiccan clergy in your state to perform a handfasting, committment ceremony, or wedding? This list contains Pagan clergy sorted by states.
Cernunnos
Cernunnos is the horned god found in many traditions of modern Paganism and Wicca. He is an archetype found predominantly in Celtic regions, and symbolizes fertility and masculine energy.
Renaissance Faire Turkey Leg
One of the high points of going to a Renaissance Faire or festival in the fall is the giant turkey legs. You can make your own easily, and add it to your Mabon celebration feast!
Samhain History
Samhain is celebrated October 31, the same night as Halloween. However, this Sabbat has roots that go back thousands of years. Learn about how Samhain became All Hallow's Eve.
What is Ritual Sex?
Wondering what the heck people mean when they say "Great Rite"? Trying to figure out what sex has to do with Wicca? Read on to find out just what ritual sex means, and why people might have it (or not).
Simple Meal Blessing
This basic blessing offers thanks to the God and Goddess.
Why Do People Become Wiccan?
A reader writes in wondering why people decide to follow a Wiccan or Pagan spiritual path. Learn what the answer is - it may surprise you!
Handfasting Basket
What do you give the Pagan or Wiccan couple who already has a toaster oven and three different styles of flatware? Make them a gift from the heart, and celebrate their handfasting with this basket full of thirteen symbolic goodies.
When is Lughnasadh 2009?
Lammas, or Lughnasadh, celebrates the early harvest. When does Lammas fall in 2009?
Days of the Week
Each day of the week is magical in its own right. Believe it or not, when it comes to magic, the seven days all have very different planetary influences, colors, and other associations.
1 - The Magician
Who is the Magician, and what does he represent in a Tarot Card reading?
2 - The High Priestess
What should you expect when you see The High Priestess pop up in a Tarot Card spread?
The Tarot Suit of Swords
If you're learning to read the Tarot, take some time to get to know the suit of Swords, which is tied to conflicts and tough decision-making.
Honor the Harvest's End
Samhain falls on October 31, and is known as the Witch's New Year. You can celebrate it as the end of the harvest, and honor the return of the King of Winter.

Explore Paganism / Wicca

About.com Special Features

Paganism / Wicca

  1. Home
  2. Religion & Spirituality
  3. Paganism / Wicca

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.