Wicca, Witchcraft, Whatzawhozit?
The Rede of the Wiccae (The Wiccan Rede)
Traditions: There are various denominations of Wicca, called “Traditions.” Many are NOT legitimate, and are simply people who themselves can’t tell the difference between Wicca and Witchcraft (do you really want someone that misinformed teaching you?), or want to look more “legitimate” by using the word Wicca. The most commonly known denomination of the original Gardnerian Wicca is Alexandrian Wicca, but there are many others.
When looking for a Wiccan coven (if indeed you want to join one), use your good judgement and ask for their lineage back to Gardner; if they can’t provide one, or a certificate of initiation (yes, they do give you a certificate) into ANY Wiccan tradition, ask them why exactly they think they’re Wiccan; don’t make it sound rude or accusatory, just ask them why they choose to use the word Wicca if they aren’t initiated INTO Wicca.
If they get defensive and rude, be very careful; it’s supposed to be their job to answer questions and appease your curiosity (within the limits of oathbound materials), so if they get defensive when you ask for their credentials, they probably don’t have any. A coven is supposed to be a bond as close as family, and an initiation in Wicca is a very intimate ritual (it does NOT, however, involve sex; don’t ever let anyone force you into that)…you do NOT want to enter into it lightly.
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