Witchcraft as a spectrum, is a great metaphor. I think I struggle less with where I sit on this spectrum compared to other practitioners, and struggle more with where I sit compared to my own expectation of what my practice should look like or be (although, I likely have some comparison trap to shadow work, in there). Thank you for bringing this up, its helping me reflect on my practice and revisit my own expectations on myself.
I really like your comparison with being/becoming a musician! As a self-taught DIY punk/rock guitarist & songwriter in a (witchy!) band, that's also how I approach my witchcraft: from a very DIY and explorative perspective, not needing to be perfect, and not needing to follow a specific tradition, even though like I find different kinds of music styles super interesting, I'm also interested in and open to different approaches, practices, and traditions in witchcraft.
I really enjoyed this conversation. I discovered witchcraft during the pandemic; I’ll be 100% honest-I was depressed and bored, and binge watching the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and thought, “you know what? That looks cool.” And then I went down the rabbit hole of researching witchcraft and magic and reading books and watching videos, and all that fun stuff. I first started identifying as a Wiccan because I read a lot of outdated books and I really resonated with the values they presented in their texts (Cunningham, Buckland, Valiente, etc.) But, it also didn’t quite sit right with me either. In 2022, I took the level one course with the Temple of Witchcraft and that really helped me contextualize a lot of my own beliefs and values, but it also helped me actually dip my toes in the water and practice witchcraft. I experimented, and I journaled. My BOS turned from me just copying down things from books to a magical journal with reflections on my beliefs, values, experiments, and results from the practices I was doing. I just identify as a witch now, but I never really felt like I “left Wicca” in the way a lot of RUclipsrs make videos about. I just was trying out labels, and I’m still exploring. For me, witchcraft is about bringing joy into my life and connecting with the divine and other spirits. I’m autistic and the ritual aspect of witchcraft has helped me a lot each day. I don’t really talk with others about my beliefs because they’re very personal to me. I also think it can be unhelpful to think of an imagined audience when you practice. I definitely think of witchcraft as a spectrum, and I think people should just let people be and also not do so much fear mongering either! I swear a lot of the people that are like “YOU NEED TO BE VERY CAREFUL WITH…” x,y,z, remind me of my evangelical mother saying a Ouija board will sell your soul to the devil. I’m not saying bad things don’t happen, they can, but I also think people play things up for “Woo-credibility.” Like, come on, just let people experiment, and let people practice. I think witchcraft is a lot more fluid and open than some people would like it to be, but that’s also sort of the beauty of it too.
I'm also autistic, but atheist, so the religious forms of witchcraft don't resonate with me personally. But you've hit the nail on the head with the importance of rituals. I feel they help ground me, make me more in touch with how I'm feeling, and keep me aware of where I am in time. ETA: I also watched Sabrina during lockdown! Great show with a truly touching ending.
I grew up raised by Christians. Then I discovered a part of me that I had blocked out because my family strongly discouraged me of it. I am a trans female. Parents wouldn’t help me when I came out at an early age. When I joined the military I started transitioning. Family disowned me soon after. But I’ve always been drawn to witchcraft bc it’s a misunderstandood craft. Now I’m getting into it and researching it. I say don’t just believe in something just because you were told to. Now I have to hide the fact that I’m a witch so that I won’t be persecuted for it. People would be like “what?!! You’re a witch?!!! Ahhh hell nah! Not in my house!!!” So to avoid hearing any of that, imma keep quiet about my practice. Only my husband knows and he’s pretty much an atheist although he’s been talking about ‘god’ a lot lately. Likely bc he feels he is getting old and wants to believe in something spiritual. No problem in that. Witches have such a bad connotation to them. Satan does as well. People think that if you’re a witch, you’re possessed by a demon. Which is not the case. Possessions are extremely rare and only happen to people with a lot of influence on others
At 66, I was recently diagnosed as AuDHD. I was raised in the mountains with strong folk traditions and herbalism (my great-gran was a midwife and an herbalist). When I moved away from home at 18, I discovered Wicca, but it felt constraining *to me*. Even as a child, I was drawn to the forest, the Trees, and nature as a whole. Almost predictably, Even while I practiced with a coven, my personal practice shifted, and I eventually became a druid. I still practice folk magic. It's in my blood. I find that my morning devotions help ground me for the day. If I don't do them, I'm scattered. Having my diagnosis, I am more aware of several levels of why that is good for me.
Kay but Pop Culture Witchcraft is a valid tool for your personal practice. In Sabrina we see deep theological statements like the episode where she goes to limbo and fails. The idea that "you can't save everyone" or "all things have a price" are DEEP influences. In Terry Pratchett the Witch Granny Weatherwax literally talks about sin in a way that actual theologians have been influenced. It's valid. It's good. And a lot of us came to the craft because of Pop Culture. For me it was Charmed The Original Series and Buffy. Also this is my remjnder to finish Sabrina lol
Don’t care about hair and makeup. Spectrum… everyone’s human experience creates an individual experience. I feel my 35ish years of practice (starting in middle school) is a constant journey. Being open to new ideas/perspectives invites others voices into sacred space for me. I used to be a teacher of young children and raised two children who are now adults. I notice that I learn a lot “from the mouths of babes”. Trying to understand how the energy can be shifting according to Mama Earth or Goddess/God evolution… Sacredness of Creation… I believe human spirituality with a relationship to the elements is constantly changing. Thank you with much appreciation!!! 💜💜💜
The concept of a spectrum always seems so limiting for anything to do with the human experience. I prefer the idea of a constellation; you are a structure stars that make up your preferences, and you orient that structure in time and place to create an image for a particular audience. Using your music metaphor to illustrate: your family background could have you playing Polish polka on the accordion at every family gathering much to the delight of your babushka, while you may be a trained pianist playing Chopin in concert halls, but when hanging out smoking weed with your friends you jam Jimi Hendrix on your guitar. You do not tell your babushka about Jimi Hendrix, and co-workers give you the side eye about polka, but you find joy in multiple genres with different settings. Witchcraft could be the same way for a lot of people. A video you did some years back talked about the importance of having your own practice separate from your group's work. What you do privately can include different worship, actions, and goals. Even a different cosmology than shared with a group. If it works, rock on!
I have found myself often using the music metaphor (or drawing/painting) as well, but it's often been used as 'If you want professional level guitar skills, you have to put in the work to get them.' I also think it's okay to learn some cowboy chords to play along at get-togethers, and never progress beyond that, if it's what you're satisfied with. But I have met a lot of people who want the professional-level rewards and praise without having to put in the work to get there. I know that some of us live in cultures that promote turning every hobby into a side-hustle, but maybe we should also promote learning to be satisfied with the results of the work you're willing to put into something. Anyway, really excellent video and good food for thought.
Always a pleasure to listen to you reflect on witchcraft (and to read your books!). For my part, I believe that there is a big difference between ''religious perspective'' and ''spiritual perspective''. I observe that all religions sort and prioritize beliefs in order to establish a very specific framework of life and collective morality for its followers. In a ''spiritual perspective'', there is not this systemic rigidity of the ''religious perspective''. And I am one of those rebellious, individual and wild witches who are insubordinate to all attempts to systematize, supervise or collectivize their beliefs or their practice. For me, witchcraft is a direct spiritual link between the witch and the global energies in our universe. And the universe itself resists any attempt at restriction... I believe that this rebellious freedom is at the source of witchcraft, but witchcraft has this wonderful thing that it can also be realized in a ''religious perspective'', according to the needs of each practitioner. So no matter the perspective, the most relevant will always be the one that works for the witch, and if it works for the witch, passing judgment on her approach is useless. In conclusion, if witchcraft is a spectrum, it is also because it is above all...freedom.
Wow, this is a really great conversation. I, myself, have been struggling with my idea of witchcraft...because I associate witchcraft with spells and to execute a spell, I need to have a desire to manifest...but I don't, or my brain doesnt want to work that way. I like to think that life brings me what I desire just by being attuned to the idea of magick, which has been the case all of my life. So to ''force it'' by executing a spell is contrary to my general perspective. But if I don't work spells, I don't feel witchy enough. See how it circles back. But after hearing you talk about spectrum, it makes me realise that I should reevaluate what witchcraft is to me. I think it has more to do with ritual and connection, with covenmates and nature spirits or deity or the great unknown, than it does using spells to elevate my circumstances. I never thought of holding ritual as being a magical act though, just a sacred one...but maybe it's both. Practical magick is trending, so maybe that's why I thought that it's the only way to be. Thank you for your insight.
Love your music practice metaphor. To extend on it, there space for listening and learning about others music without wanting to play it myself. IE Im interested in reading about ATR and voodoo and want to listen to practitioners and read books by initiates, but I have no desire to train in or join a house. Same with Taoism. I could listen to Benebell Wen speak about the Tao and it's cosmology and history for hours (and I do) but I don't think I want to pick up my own yarrow sticks. It's a big world full of musicians and music and I love to learn and listen. 😊
There's the Garden/Kitchen witch all the way to Völva (practicing seiðr with also involves cannabis, henbane, and other mind altering substances). There are levels that people aren't built for. And that's perfectly fine.
I loved this topic and the extended music metaphor. I think it encourages research and discussion if the participants in the discussion are mature and open to learning. I do think there is room for secular and religious Witchcraft. And it really doesn't need my belief or approval. It already exists side by side anyway. The variety is exciting to me. I makes me glad that it isn't stagnant.
I think it's so varied that I'd have a hard time identifying one spectrum for all of witchcraft, although certainly on any given trait you could put things on a spectrum (such as "is it religious or secular?", "the importance of particular tools", "the level of active involvement of the witch", etc). I've found that over the years I've strayed from being focused on magic (and wishing all the religious stuff would get out of the way) to becoming perhaps far more interested in the religion and lifestyle perspective I feel is related (and less so active in any attempt at magic). The way I use the words for myself, I'd say I've become more focused on "being Pagan" than "being a witch", though the interest in (and belief in the prevalence/possibility of) magic(k) is still there.
Cat mug A+ Perspective A+ As a self taught (I read a bunch of religious and esoteric texts, poetry, DnD, White wolf games...) until I had a pretty significant, really life altering breakthrough... Which is when I made contact with (various deities) and became suddenly are, also kinda remembered that there are spirit, like, everywhere. i could even kinda suss out like, intentions? I think thats accurate enough, anyway, that was a little over a year ago, I've learned a lot from the spirit and (deities) and RUclips videos, my life has changed in a number of amazing ways and goals I thought impossible have become events I anticipate in the future. Im not a super witch/wizard/magus or anything, I can still barely if at all understand or talk to most of the unseen forces but I have some stalwart companions on the other side who grant me peace and strength and I love them I could write a million words, anyway~ I dont consider myself self taught anymore, there are so many amazing teachers relevant to my practice on RUclips (of all things) and I dont social media so I never even perceive these conflicts even though I follow and appreciate people with wildly different perspectives at times. I acknowledge Im likely pretty mentally i but I live in California so Im more likely to be murdered in the street by the local sheriff than receive mental help, so why not try magic?
This was such a great topic. There are so many different beliefs and magical modalities. I love hearing from people of various traditions, just to learn what others are doing and thinking. For me personally, witchcraft is a way to connect with nature and the elements while co-creating my life. Though I am on the spectrum of viewing witchcraft as more of a practice than religion, it is still related. Everything is connected to everything. Thank you for this thought provoking video. I always enjoy hearing your viewpoint. And by the way, I love the cat mug. I am a kitty mama of 6.
I’ll munch on this for a few days, but my earliest reaction is a feeling of grace. I’m thinking of a philosophy of sexuality course from the 90s when the orientation spectrum became like six spectrums. I was introduced to witchcraft as a child by adults in their 20s. Stories were transferred around a campfire and seeped into my bones. As my parents moved into their 30s, they went down different paths, and I took my love of witchcraft underground. My relationship has always felt religious though I am not involved with others. I’ve wanted to be at different times in my life. So that is one position on the spectrum. On another, I should have been a folklorist. I am a student of folk magic and cherish the everyday practices learned by watching my grandmothers. Not a single self-proclaimed witch in that generation, but oodles of folk Catholicism and Appalachian practices. Going back one more generation, my great-Grandpa practiced Freemasonry and I feel his influence in my devotion. So, that is my quick response, which will lead to sketches of at least two spectrums in my journal. Love the mug!
With the discussions on "what is witchcraft ", "is it a practice or a religion".... I'm seeing the same dispersion in witchcraft that i remember seeing happen in big tent paganism 30 years ago. The various traditions of witchcraft are starting to look so dissimilar from each other as to no longer fit under the same umbrella.
First, I highly approve of the cat mug. Love a good cat mug. Second, spectrum might be an imperfect analogy for the vast variety of witchcraft, but it’s as good as any. Myself, personally, when I want to understand my own witchhood, I first define the word “witchcraft” itself. Like “witch” and “craft” - what do those words mean? Put them together - what does that word mean? How deep do I need to dig into word origins to get a sense of the term’s meaning? So after a bunch of years thinking about it, I decided that, to me, “witchcraft,” based on the concepts of “witch” and “craft,” is the practice of applied wisdom (“wisdom” being a deeper level of understanding than “knowledge.”) To me, a witch is someone who seeks to understand how life and the universe work, and then does stuff with what they learn. What they do with it is entirely up to them, whether it’s religious, secular, practical, therapeutic, whatever. If a person does the stuff without working on cultivating wisdom, then I’d say they’re doing what most of us do every day - practicing music, art, cooking, sports, whatever, without it being a career or vocation. On that end of the spectrum, magic is something that improves a person’s quality of life but is not foundational to their life. Some people might call that “casual,” but I don’t go for that much cubbyholing. Obviously, this means that, for me personally, practicing magic or spell work, by itself, doesn’t make a person a witch, just like being able to play 10 different pieces on the piano doesn’t make a person a pianist. So for me, all the millions of people who keep books of shadows or put protective charms on their homes or cast spells for career success are all valid and fine, but they’re not necessarily witches. They can be, but they don't necessarily have to be. Just doing that stuff doesn't automatically call for the title of "witch." On the opposite end of the spectrum, if a person cultivates the wisdom but not the craft, then they’re a mystic, not a witch. Between the poles of a person who uses magic but isn’t a witch and a person who pursues wisdom but isn’t a witch, you have the whole variety of everything that is and can be witchcraft, all of which depends entirely on the intention and life path of the person doing the stuff. In other words, it is the person who determines if a practice is or is not witchcraft. Witchcraft is magic done by a witch. Again, this is just my personal viewpoint. And in terms of how we should relate to each other on this vast, wide-ranging, branching and meandering spectrum - I dunno, maybe we could mind our own business? Spend more time being witches and less time comparing and criticizing each other? Just a thought. Full disclosure: I’m a solitary, eclectic, animist witch. I've been on a witch path for about 40 years. My practice is about my relationships with spirits, not other witches, so I really don’t care how anyone else does their things. It’s not my place to either judge or approve of anyone else’s way of being in life. If I get into a conflict with anyone, it’s not going to be about whether they’re witching right.
I've been thinking about this too. I came up with a 'layers of the onion' kind of idea. I've slowly, and especially recently, started to morph from practice to religion: it means, things are more meaningful and in a wider, deeper sense, than before. Everything comes together more. I'm super grateful for that in my life nowadays. Turns out I always was, on this path☺️🌹
Hi there. I first heard your voice on podcast for Seeking Witchcraft, I really love listening to it and you stood out for sure. I like the way you communicate; it's very clear. I will continue to explore your channel!
I started reading your first book and totally fell off. I’ve got to get back with it. I’ve started small by cleaning my house very thoroughly and organizing things in a way so my home won’t be so distracting that I can’t focus on my practice. I really want to find a coven, but I have found that I have lots of things to learn until I do. Thank you so much for your books and videos, they have been so helpful.
You’re so welcome! Be gentle with yourself! I hope you find a coven when the time is right, but don’t be afraid to jump in even if you’re not totally sure you’re ready. Sometimes we never feel ready or like we know enough. 💙
I am a musician as well, and I like the analogy. I have a lot of interest, and I am a Polymath. So, I have a level of expertise in a number of fields, and they all have of this type of in fighting with arguments about that is inconsequential. I'm a martial artist, and guys argue if you can kick someone in the head in a real fight. I play guitar, and people argue if tone is in the fingers, is it in the wood or the speakers for another example. Gun guys argue if the best round is 9mm or . 45. D@D player argues over edition. Over dungeon design, and if you should have Orcs in your game and if you do, are you a racist. In astronomy, is there really a Planet X and, if you think so are you a moron. And the list goes on and on. Humans like to argue about stuff they are passionate about, and Witchcraft is no exception. In all of my examples, you are right it is in a spectrum in all of them. Humans are diverse, highly flawed, and beautiful, and this crazy internet thing represents those true well, maybe too well. Often, in my experience, people aren't aware of how they come across. Meaning the two parties are, in fact, having two different conversation while they believe they are on the same page. I wish more people understood that standing in disagreement is actually a good thing. Most of the answers we seek are in a spectrum, and we should keep that in mind in all of our interactions. In the end, we all just love each other. We're just humans, after all.
Well I like your metaphor. I think it probably is a spectrum. You and I probably do have very different approaches to it. My approach could just as easily be called occult blacksmithing as it can witch craft. And not what probably comes to mind for most people when we talk about witchcraft. Most people are probably thinking about Wiccan witchcraft, or atleast there perception of it. So does that mean I'm not a real witch? No. Im just built different. Lol.
I love your cat mug! 🐱 I like your perspective on this and the music metaphor. I think maybe it depends on our own personal definitions of “spectrum.” I don’t see it as a “spectrum” but more like an “umbrella”. Kind of like… say… woodworking. You can either be a basic whittler, or you can create furniture, or you can be master craftsman who creates ornate mouldings for high end houses. They are all woodworkers just with different focuses. A whittler can be a master in their craft just like the person who creates those ornate mouldings. I think of witchcraft the same way. Each person just has a different focus under the “witch umbrella.” Some focus on the “religion”, others focus on the more secular or practical. Of course… “practical” can be subjective to the individual practitioner.
EXCELLENT video. Every thought you had; every word you chose - TRUTH. I really enjoyed this video and I haven’t seen you in a while! Still beautiful as always. Thank you for your message. I’ll definitely be sharing this video with others. Wow. Great job!
Thank you for making this video! I found it very affirming. In the late '90s, several elders told me that I was not actually Wiccan-though I self-identified as such-because my conception of Wicca was not specifically religious. After studying both Wicca and ancient pagan traditions, I had concluded that while the gods were certainly important (as were other types of spirits such as the Fae and ancestors), they were not the central aspect of Wicca. In my view, the development of the spiritual faculties is far more critical than a witches prayer life. It is this development that enables contact with other planes of existence, and make practices such as "Drawing Down the Moon" (the invoking of the goddess on behalf of the coven) possible. I reasoned that this spiritual and personal development was of primary importance to the gods, rather than any overt worship we, as witches, might offer. This perspective did not sit well with other members of the community, which, at the time, was drifting towards a primarily religious orientation. An idea that was often expressed during this period was that Wicca, even traditions like eclectic Wicca, was primarily a religion and need not involve any actual practice of magic. I left the community shortly after these events and have practiced as a solitary ever since. I still consider myself a witch, or at least a sorceress, but it has been a long time since I worked specifically with a god or goddess. Instead, I focus on my own self-development, practicing tarot, meditation, mediumship, and, as far as my abilities allow, astral projection. Rituals and spells are another aspect of the craft that I have mostly ignored, but I hope to restart my practice, as regular ritual work can be extremely beneficial in many areas. Anyhow, thank you for acknowledging that there is space for my perspective in witchcraft, if not necessarily Wicca. This is the first video I've watched on your channel, but I look forward to exploring more of your content soon.
I think it's totally a spectrum. As time goes on and witchcraft gets more mainstream, a lot of the core ideas become less and less about "being a witch" and more about will, focus, and manifestation.
I covet the cat mug. And I very much feel like a witch playing cords a lone in her bedroom, but I would also like a little more direction that's not books or the internet (but haven't found it yet).
8:08 I think this is do to a broad use of language. What most Religious Wiccan mean when they say the "don't do magick" they mean is they don't practice spells or enchant objects or made amulets in their daily lives outside of their Religious Rituals. All religious rituals involve magickal operations, Transmutation, Blessing, which is a form of enchantment, Purification, Banishings... etc. But they are not Witchcraft in because in this framework, Witchcraft of well a Craft first and foremost. So, you can do magick without being a witch or practicing witchcraft. And you can be a Witch without involving Religious Practice. But both Religion and Witchcraft involve occult, divine, magickal power and influences. At least that's what I think.
Hi :) how to prepare a "seat for the spirit" that we would like to take home with us from the forest? :D I woke up the "green devil" because I was looking for help, and I still need it but in my house I don't want to imprison and catch my "forest fairy" into a trap it's hard to expect help from someone you're imprisoned How do You think we can prepare the "carriage" in which our spiritual ally will come to our home with us?and stay? a bottle left after wormwood vodka(with wormwood and other ingredients still inside)? or maybe green obsydian? But how to make the forest spirit want to live inside remaining free, not imprisoned ? I still don't have the skills to see and hear spiritual beings, I have to rely on my witch friends, but for some time now when I went to the forest to a spring with incense and alcohol, emerald dragonfly appears more and more often near me wherever I go, When I'm at home she flies next to the trees, and when I go to sleep I dream that I'm eating cigars and drinking absinthe :D because cigars were one of the incense offered in the forest spring :> Two days ago a young fox sat down in front of the entrance to my house, and I sat in front of him and we looked at each other :) in the afternoon, when lots of people were in front of their houses in their gardens He lay down on the grass as if he were at own home, like a tamed dog, he sat down as if waiting for someone to throw a stick we were just two meters away :D Next day I bought for him some chicken hearts,of course he ate all but no one knows when although we kept watch to see him again,in the blink of an eye, we suddenly realized that hearts under the trees were gone but no one saw when red-haired guy come and go :) MAGIK!! in the forest and in practice :D Do what you willo-the-wisp
Speaking of festivals Tom Swiss and I were talking at FSG last week about how we have not seen you there for a while. FSG is under new management now and is greatly improved. Your concept of witchcraft as a spectrum is interesting, perhaps mapping the various practices / traditions on a multi (four?) axis chart given their respective attributes would be illustrative?
Jack Chanek posted a video response you might enjoy! Yes, I’m glad FSG is doing well! Unfortunately with an academic calendar August events are really difficult! But one day again, I hope!
I definitely view witchcraft as more practice than religion (or at least, it can be either or), and this is such a great and nuanced conversation to bring up.
I’ve been practicing witchcraft for as long as I can remember (over 45 years now), it being part of my family’s culture. I would recommend for those who are questioning, exploring or are new to the practice to read the history of witchcraft (starting in the pre-christian era). It may help you define your beliefs. There are an incredible amount of books readily available these days than there were over 45 years ago.
I disagree, respectfully. I don't think that a witch that is dancing naked on the forest with her coven 7 days of the week is more witch then I am. That is a catholic concept in my eyes. Someone is more pious because they are more involved in the eyes of the comunity. Witchcraft for me is my first nature. I can do magic as unconciously as I breath. I hold my tradicions as naturaly asI brush my teeth. I don't like organized religion and I don't like to share my practices. Am my less of a witch? Spectrum inherintly is a scale from less to more. Witchcaft is never a chore to me, feels more like a mother's Embrace. It is never forced and never institucionalized. My tradicion came from the women from my family tru generations. Am I less of a witch? Are we having hierarchy in the craft now? Just like church? Really?
I don’t make the argument that a witch in a coven is more of a witch than someone who isn’t. I was thinking specifically of a light spectrum, which isn’t about less to more. Colors are different, but they exist on a spectrum. But I’m glad your practice fuels you the way it does! I’d also just note that assertions about inheritance and blood are used just as often to establish hierarchies. Witches who join covens and work to practice each day are *also* equally witches as those who come by it with less effort.
@@drawingKenaz any spectrum is a gradation of value, even color. That is why ultraviolet and infraread are in the oposit scale, one so high it can't be seen and the other so low it can't be seen... Magic that is passed down a family line does not carry hierarchy, my mother was a much more powerfull at comunicating with the dead than grandma and greatgrandma, great grandmother was a tradicional healer, she delivered babies, protected against the evel eye... my grandmother was great at sympathetic magic. The same way in families you have the one that sings the best, the one that cooks the best, the one that is great with children and the entire family reffers to that person in matters related to the gift, the same is in magic... hierarchy comes with organized religion. A family is a comunity where everyone comes together for the good of the family, a disfunctional family has hierarchy, where you listen to the head of the family just because and the one that has the greater knowlege gets shut down. The rigid structure of a formal religion can be stifling when the talents on magic are so vast... there are sirens out there that can enchant crowds with their voices, there are dancers out there that can change people's biorithms just by watching them dance. There are cooks that can heal a broken heart. Are they less magical or less of a witch? Magic is not on a spectrum, each people has a different capacity of percieving magic and a different need to live magicaly, the same way some people need 12 hours of sleep and some people thrive in 4 hours of sleep, they are not more or less of a person because of that. Wich is the most "religious" the one that prays 5 times a day between Sunrise and sunset or the one wich every action is mindfull and made in honor and in offer to a God or Godess? The one that never prays but saves many lives as a paramedic and even on his off times keeps on allert on how to be of service or the one that looses himself in prayer but never remember to look to the brother at his side? A path is not a spectrum, a path is a path. People go in different directions because we cannot all do the same thing. Imagine a world full of only lawyers... who would bake the bread, perform cirurgy or compose a relaxing melody? We are all pieces of a puzzle, we all complement each other and we all fit. Maybe if we are not fitting right now we are just near the wrong pieces... I am very good at sencing energy, therefore I can feel magic everywhere can feel it coursing tru people, objects, animals, plants, I can see people bending, shaping, molding energy and releasing it even when they are not aware they are doing it. Seeing all that, that even babies mold and change energy and send energy on its way, how can I believe being a witch is a spectrum? To me sounds like saying being human is in a spectrum... that you are only a human when you are awake... if you are sleeping you are not human, when you are fully awake you are a human, when you are in the fog of getting up or going to sleep you are "in between" being human... when you are drunk you are in between being human... if I can see a pastor in a church using energy to make a line of people pass out and claim it to be "the power of the holly spirit" is that less of witchcraft? Is a circle of prayer for healing a sick person, where dozens of people chant in one voice less of a witchcraft? Is handfasting so different then a wedding in church? Is dancing naked in the forest any more or less fervorous then with the knee bent in front of a candle in a cathedral? In my view we are all fish and magic is water... name it witchcraft, name it christianism, budhism, islamism, conservatorism, progressivism, aristothelism, comunism, liberalism, insert any sports team that inflames passion, insert any popstar from any media. If it gathers enough passion, it gathers enough energy to make a change in the world... and what is the craft if not making changes in the real world using gathered energy for a purpuse? Fish are not less weat in the first 10 inches of wather then they are 30.000 feet under water... not all fish swim in deep water, but all of them swim, regardless of how deep they go, they are all weat.
@@robzombie69 spectrum is a tool to classyfy someting in gradation to two oposite ends... anything that has a gradation has a value atributed to it in hierarchy to something else. Colors are in a spectrum measured by wavelenghts. The higher the wave lenght the near it is to one end, the lower the near it is to the other. Being a numerc value you know wich color is higher on the spectrum and wich is lower. Another thing that is on a scale is the acid-base scale that goes from 0 to 14, one end is the strongest acid and the other is the strongest base, 7 is neutral. You know 0 is lower then 1 and 14 is higer then 13... another thing that exists in a spectrum are earthquaques on the rishter scale from 2 tru 9... guess wich earthquake is stronguest?
Hi I messaged you via website I'm having problems with forming the Taurus glyph with my fingers as instructed on page 57 of Taurus Witch I'm doing what it says but I ain't ending up with anything that looks Taurus 😂 any help would be great ♥️
I’m a southerner, so our two big ones are Mystic South and HexFest! I’d love to go north one year and try Paganicon and ConVocation. I hear they’re amazing! If you’re into camping there’s also Free Spirit Gathering in Maryland and Starwood in Ohio!
No! I’ve made some shorter form videos on TikTok explaining how westerners influenced by Protestantism tend to have much narrower definitions of religion than in other parts of the world!
@@drawingKenaz its funny that seeking out that practical magic of "self transformation" is often overlooked in search of a grander thing to be a part of a "priesthood" of- but that seeking out of the practical magical connection to the world around us still falls short of elluding to a "soul" transformation across "lifetimes"... im not against the language "soul" or "deity", however what i intend to convey is that the religion of invoking the practical magic is still a very meaningful one. to some it even defies those grander mystical whatever whatevers that other people may mean when they use the word religion. its taking the permission to connect with the world around us in defiance of whatever out there may or may not exist. i find religion in that. ive seen all your videos a million times over. thanks.
I’m just starting out and realized that what I’m doing might be contradictory because I want to DIY it but I also want to be serious about it as a religion and I want to use it to meet short term goals and self-improvement but I also see it as not something I can walk away from at any time or should be able to just walk away from. I’m wondering if it’s possible to have the best of both worlds or as the saying goes ‘have your cake and eat it too’ or is that cheating. Also if the spectrum has to do with how new or recent something is to you. Like you automatically fall within the less serious side of the spectrum as you’re first starting out.
I see magic the same way I see time, or dimensions, or the marvel universe.lol. This is very much the spider web. Where if you turn left you went One direction and got into Celtic Wicca European traditions alexandrian and gardenerian. Or instead you turn right and got into Egyptian alchemy Golden Dawn Masonic traditions. Or you looked up your family history and found out you're one tenth Cherokee and decided to become an Indian shaman. In the 80s solitary witchcraft was very big and then you got people telling you you weren't a real magician if you weren't in a coven or a circle. It all depends on what you need and what you're willing to put out there.😊
I don't think that spectrum is the appropriate metaphor here since you're talking about many differences that aren't simply a matter of degree but are qualitatively different.
first of all that's not really a metaphor, and second there are multiple definitions & types of spectrums. for instance sexuality or gender being a spectrum is more like a rainbow of many colors than a line of point a to point b
@@robzombie69 I think you need to look up what a metaphor is because it definitely is one - as is "rainbow" - unless you think they are somehow ACTUALLY different colors. And, a spectrum (or rainbow) is a line from a to b. It is one dimensional.
@@gastronomist comparing to a rainbow would be a metaphor, but saying it is a spectrum is just interpretation of data. but i think saying a spectrum is a straight line is fuckin dumb, just as it would be fuckin dumb to say the human spectrums of gender, emotion, or spirituality are able to be quantified on a fuckin line or even a graph. but nice try lol
@@robzombie69 Then apparently you don't know what a spectrum is, which I personally find mind-boggling. Unless you've been talking about wavelengths of light this whole time, you have not been talking about a spectrum. ... And, if you can't quantify it, then you can't describe it s a 'spectrum' either. Otherwise, you're just putting a bunch of random qualities on a line. Do you realize that the colors of spectrum are not in an arbitrary order? They are necessarily in that order and they are quantifiable.
Witchcraft as a spectrum, is a great metaphor. I think I struggle less with where I sit on this spectrum compared to other practitioners, and struggle more with where I sit compared to my own expectation of what my practice should look like or be (although, I likely have some comparison trap to shadow work, in there). Thank you for bringing this up, its helping me reflect on my practice and revisit my own expectations on myself.
I've never looked at it that way. Interesting
I really like your comparison with being/becoming a musician! As a self-taught DIY punk/rock guitarist & songwriter in a (witchy!) band, that's also how I approach my witchcraft: from a very DIY and explorative perspective, not needing to be perfect, and not needing to follow a specific tradition, even though like I find different kinds of music styles super interesting, I'm also interested in and open to different approaches, practices, and traditions in witchcraft.
I really enjoyed this conversation. I discovered witchcraft during the pandemic; I’ll be 100% honest-I was depressed and bored, and binge watching the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and thought, “you know what? That looks cool.” And then I went down the rabbit hole of researching witchcraft and magic and reading books and watching videos, and all that fun stuff. I first started identifying as a Wiccan because I read a lot of outdated books and I really resonated with the values they presented in their texts (Cunningham, Buckland, Valiente, etc.) But, it also didn’t quite sit right with me either. In 2022, I took the level one course with the Temple of Witchcraft and that really helped me contextualize a lot of my own beliefs and values, but it also helped me actually dip my toes in the water and practice witchcraft. I experimented, and I journaled. My BOS turned from me just copying down things from books to a magical journal with reflections on my beliefs, values, experiments, and results from the practices I was doing. I just identify as a witch now, but I never really felt like I “left Wicca” in the way a lot of RUclipsrs make videos about. I just was trying out labels, and I’m still exploring. For me, witchcraft is about bringing joy into my life and connecting with the divine and other spirits. I’m autistic and the ritual aspect of witchcraft has helped me a lot each day. I don’t really talk with others about my beliefs because they’re very personal to me. I also think it can be unhelpful to think of an imagined audience when you practice. I definitely think of witchcraft as a spectrum, and I think people should just let people be and also not do so much fear mongering either! I swear a lot of the people that are like “YOU NEED TO BE VERY CAREFUL WITH…” x,y,z, remind me of my evangelical mother saying a Ouija board will sell your soul to the devil. I’m not saying bad things don’t happen, they can, but I also think people play things up for “Woo-credibility.” Like, come on, just let people experiment, and let people practice. I think witchcraft is a lot more fluid and open than some people would like it to be, but that’s also sort of the beauty of it too.
This is a perfect verbalization of my current journey. But thank you for the next steps for me to try. Be well!
I'm also autistic, but atheist, so the religious forms of witchcraft don't resonate with me personally. But you've hit the nail on the head with the importance of rituals. I feel they help ground me, make me more in touch with how I'm feeling, and keep me aware of where I am in time.
ETA: I also watched Sabrina during lockdown! Great show with a truly touching ending.
I grew up raised by Christians. Then I discovered a part of me that I had blocked out because my family strongly discouraged me of it. I am a trans female. Parents wouldn’t help me when I came out at an early age. When I joined the military I started transitioning. Family disowned me soon after. But I’ve always been drawn to witchcraft bc it’s a misunderstandood craft. Now I’m getting into it and researching it. I say don’t just believe in something just because you were told to. Now I have to hide the fact that I’m a witch so that I won’t be persecuted for it. People would be like “what?!! You’re a witch?!!! Ahhh hell nah! Not in my house!!!” So to avoid hearing any of that, imma keep quiet about my practice. Only my husband knows and he’s pretty much an atheist although he’s been talking about ‘god’ a lot lately. Likely bc he feels he is getting old and wants to believe in something spiritual. No problem in that. Witches have such a bad connotation to them. Satan does as well. People think that if you’re a witch, you’re possessed by a demon. Which is not the case. Possessions are extremely rare and only happen to people with a lot of influence on others
At 66, I was recently diagnosed as AuDHD. I was raised in the mountains with strong folk traditions and herbalism (my great-gran was a midwife and an herbalist). When I moved away from home at 18, I discovered Wicca, but it felt constraining *to me*. Even as a child, I was drawn to the forest, the Trees, and nature as a whole. Almost predictably, Even while I practiced with a coven, my personal practice shifted, and I eventually became a druid. I still practice folk magic. It's in my blood. I find that my morning devotions help ground me for the day. If I don't do them, I'm scattered. Having my diagnosis, I am more aware of several levels of why that is good for me.
Kay but Pop Culture Witchcraft is a valid tool for your personal practice. In Sabrina we see deep theological statements like the episode where she goes to limbo and fails. The idea that "you can't save everyone" or "all things have a price" are DEEP influences. In Terry Pratchett the Witch Granny Weatherwax literally talks about sin in a way that actual theologians have been influenced. It's valid. It's good. And a lot of us came to the craft because of Pop Culture. For me it was Charmed The Original Series and Buffy.
Also this is my remjnder to finish Sabrina lol
I really like music analogy. There are different types and different ways to engage.
Don’t care about hair and makeup. Spectrum… everyone’s human experience creates an individual experience. I feel my 35ish years of practice (starting in middle school) is a constant journey. Being open to new ideas/perspectives invites others voices into sacred space for me. I used to be a teacher of young children and raised two children who are now adults. I notice that I learn a lot “from the mouths of babes”. Trying to understand how the energy can be shifting according to Mama Earth or Goddess/God evolution… Sacredness of Creation… I believe human spirituality with a relationship to the elements is constantly changing. Thank you with much appreciation!!! 💜💜💜
The concept of a spectrum always seems so limiting for anything to do with the human experience. I prefer the idea of a constellation; you are a structure stars that make up your preferences, and you orient that structure in time and place to create an image for a particular audience. Using your music metaphor to illustrate: your family background could have you playing Polish polka on the accordion at every family gathering much to the delight of your babushka, while you may be a trained pianist playing Chopin in concert halls, but when hanging out smoking weed with your friends you jam Jimi Hendrix on your guitar. You do not tell your babushka about Jimi Hendrix, and co-workers give you the side eye about polka, but you find joy in multiple genres with different settings. Witchcraft could be the same way for a lot of people. A video you did some years back talked about the importance of having your own practice separate from your group's work. What you do privately can include different worship, actions, and goals. Even a different cosmology than shared with a group. If it works, rock on!
Agreed-it’s really too linear and limited. But it sort of works as an initial point I think!
I have found myself often using the music metaphor (or drawing/painting) as well, but it's often been used as 'If you want professional level guitar skills, you have to put in the work to get them.' I also think it's okay to learn some cowboy chords to play along at get-togethers, and never progress beyond that, if it's what you're satisfied with. But I have met a lot of people who want the professional-level rewards and praise without having to put in the work to get there. I know that some of us live in cultures that promote turning every hobby into a side-hustle, but maybe we should also promote learning to be satisfied with the results of the work you're willing to put into something. Anyway, really excellent video and good food for thought.
Always a pleasure to listen to you reflect on witchcraft (and to read your books!). For my part, I believe that there is a big difference between ''religious perspective'' and ''spiritual perspective''. I observe that all religions sort and prioritize beliefs in order to establish a very specific framework of life and collective morality for its followers. In a ''spiritual perspective'', there is not this systemic rigidity of the ''religious perspective''. And I am one of those rebellious, individual and wild witches who are insubordinate to all attempts to systematize, supervise or collectivize their beliefs or their practice. For me, witchcraft is a direct spiritual link between the witch and the global energies in our universe. And the universe itself resists any attempt at restriction... I believe that this rebellious freedom is at the source of witchcraft, but witchcraft has this wonderful thing that it can also be realized in a ''religious perspective'', according to the needs of each practitioner. So no matter the perspective, the most relevant will always be the one that works for the witch, and if it works for the witch, passing judgment on her approach is useless. In conclusion, if witchcraft is a spectrum, it is also because it is above all...freedom.
Wow, this is a really great conversation. I, myself, have been struggling with my idea of witchcraft...because I associate witchcraft with spells and to execute a spell, I need to have a desire to manifest...but I don't, or my brain doesnt want to work that way. I like to think that life brings me what I desire just by being attuned to the idea of magick, which has been the case all of my life. So to ''force it'' by executing a spell is contrary to my general perspective. But if I don't work spells, I don't feel witchy enough. See how it circles back. But after hearing you talk about spectrum, it makes me realise that I should reevaluate what witchcraft is to me. I think it has more to do with ritual and connection, with covenmates and nature spirits or deity or the great unknown, than it does using spells to elevate my circumstances. I never thought of holding ritual as being a magical act though, just a sacred one...but maybe it's both. Practical magick is trending, so maybe that's why I thought that it's the only way to be. Thank you for your insight.
Love your music practice metaphor. To extend on it, there space for listening and learning about others music without wanting to play it myself. IE Im interested in reading about ATR and voodoo and want to listen to practitioners and read books by initiates, but I have no desire to train in or join a house. Same with Taoism. I could listen to Benebell Wen speak about the Tao and it's cosmology and history for hours (and I do) but I don't think I want to pick up my own yarrow sticks. It's a big world full of musicians and music and I love to learn and listen. 😊
There's the Garden/Kitchen witch all the way to Völva (practicing seiðr with also involves cannabis, henbane, and other mind altering substances). There are levels that people aren't built for. And that's perfectly fine.
I loved this topic and the extended music metaphor. I think it encourages research and discussion if the participants in the discussion are mature and open to learning. I do think there is room for secular and religious
Witchcraft. And it really doesn't need my belief or approval. It already exists side by side anyway. The variety is
exciting to me. I makes me glad that it isn't stagnant.
Loved this conversation and the music analogy!! 💗
I think it's so varied that I'd have a hard time identifying one spectrum for all of witchcraft, although certainly on any given trait you could put things on a spectrum (such as "is it religious or secular?", "the importance of particular tools", "the level of active involvement of the witch", etc). I've found that over the years I've strayed from being focused on magic (and wishing all the religious stuff would get out of the way) to becoming perhaps far more interested in the religion and lifestyle perspective I feel is related (and less so active in any attempt at magic). The way I use the words for myself, I'd say I've become more focused on "being Pagan" than "being a witch", though the interest in (and belief in the prevalence/possibility of) magic(k) is still there.
Cat mug A+ Perspective A+ As a self taught (I read a bunch of religious and esoteric texts, poetry, DnD, White wolf games...) until I had a pretty significant, really life altering breakthrough... Which is when I made contact with (various deities) and became suddenly are, also kinda remembered that there are spirit, like, everywhere. i could even kinda suss out like, intentions? I think thats accurate enough, anyway, that was a little over a year ago, I've learned a lot from the spirit and (deities) and RUclips videos, my life has changed in a number of amazing ways and goals I thought impossible have become events I anticipate in the future. Im not a super witch/wizard/magus or anything, I can still barely if at all understand or talk to most of the unseen forces but I have some stalwart companions on the other side who grant me peace and strength and I love them I could write a million words, anyway~
I dont consider myself self taught anymore, there are so many amazing teachers relevant to my practice on RUclips (of all things) and I dont social media so I never even perceive these conflicts even though I follow and appreciate people with wildly different perspectives at times.
I acknowledge Im likely pretty mentally i but I live in California so Im more likely to be murdered in the street by the local sheriff than receive mental help, so why not try magic?
This was such a great topic. There are so many different beliefs and magical modalities. I love hearing from people of various traditions, just to learn what others are doing and thinking. For me personally, witchcraft is a way to connect with nature and the elements while co-creating my life. Though I am on the spectrum of viewing witchcraft as more of a practice than religion, it is still related. Everything is connected to everything. Thank you for this thought provoking video. I always enjoy hearing your viewpoint. And by the way, I love the cat mug. I am a kitty mama of 6.
Thank you! It’s so valuable getting feedback from folks with different perspectives, so I really appreciate your comment!
I’ll munch on this for a few days, but my earliest reaction is a feeling of grace. I’m thinking of a philosophy of sexuality course from the 90s when the orientation spectrum became like six spectrums. I was introduced to witchcraft as a child by adults in their 20s. Stories were transferred around a campfire and seeped into my bones. As my parents moved into their 30s, they went down different paths, and I took my love of witchcraft underground. My relationship has always felt religious though I am not involved with others. I’ve wanted to be at different times in my life. So that is one position on the spectrum. On another, I should have been a folklorist. I am a student of folk magic and cherish the everyday practices learned by watching my grandmothers. Not a single self-proclaimed witch in that generation, but oodles of folk Catholicism and Appalachian practices. Going back one more generation, my great-Grandpa practiced Freemasonry and I feel his influence in my devotion. So, that is my quick response, which will lead to sketches of at least two spectrums in my journal. Love the mug!
With the discussions on "what is witchcraft ", "is it a practice or a religion"....
I'm seeing the same dispersion in witchcraft that i remember seeing happen in big tent paganism 30 years ago. The various traditions of witchcraft are starting to look so dissimilar from each other as to no longer fit under the same umbrella.
And yet we all still have more in common with each other than we do with any given Christian denomination.
First, I highly approve of the cat mug. Love a good cat mug.
Second, spectrum might be an imperfect analogy for the vast variety of witchcraft, but it’s as good as any.
Myself, personally, when I want to understand my own witchhood, I first define the word “witchcraft” itself. Like “witch” and “craft” - what do those words mean? Put them together - what does that word mean? How deep do I need to dig into word origins to get a sense of the term’s meaning? So after a bunch of years thinking about it, I decided that, to me, “witchcraft,” based on the concepts of “witch” and “craft,” is the practice of applied wisdom (“wisdom” being a deeper level of understanding than “knowledge.”)
To me, a witch is someone who seeks to understand how life and the universe work, and then does stuff with what they learn. What they do with it is entirely up to them, whether it’s religious, secular, practical, therapeutic, whatever.
If a person does the stuff without working on cultivating wisdom, then I’d say they’re doing what most of us do every day - practicing music, art, cooking, sports, whatever, without it being a career or vocation. On that end of the spectrum, magic is something that improves a person’s quality of life but is not foundational to their life. Some people might call that “casual,” but I don’t go for that much cubbyholing. Obviously, this means that, for me personally, practicing magic or spell work, by itself, doesn’t make a person a witch, just like being able to play 10 different pieces on the piano doesn’t make a person a pianist. So for me, all the millions of people who keep books of shadows or put protective charms on their homes or cast spells for career success are all valid and fine, but they’re not necessarily witches. They can be, but they don't necessarily have to be. Just doing that stuff doesn't automatically call for the title of "witch."
On the opposite end of the spectrum, if a person cultivates the wisdom but not the craft, then they’re a mystic, not a witch.
Between the poles of a person who uses magic but isn’t a witch and a person who pursues wisdom but isn’t a witch, you have the whole variety of everything that is and can be witchcraft, all of which depends entirely on the intention and life path of the person doing the stuff. In other words, it is the person who determines if a practice is or is not witchcraft. Witchcraft is magic done by a witch. Again, this is just my personal viewpoint.
And in terms of how we should relate to each other on this vast, wide-ranging, branching and meandering spectrum - I dunno, maybe we could mind our own business? Spend more time being witches and less time comparing and criticizing each other? Just a thought.
Full disclosure: I’m a solitary, eclectic, animist witch. I've been on a witch path for about 40 years. My practice is about my relationships with spirits, not other witches, so I really don’t care how anyone else does their things. It’s not my place to either judge or approve of anyone else’s way of being in life. If I get into a conflict with anyone, it’s not going to be about whether they’re witching right.
I've been thinking about this too. I came up with a 'layers of the onion' kind of idea. I've slowly, and especially recently, started to morph from practice to religion: it means, things are more meaningful and in a wider, deeper sense, than before. Everything comes together more. I'm super grateful for that in my life nowadays. Turns out I always was, on this path☺️🌹
Hi there. I first heard your voice on podcast for Seeking Witchcraft, I really love listening to it and you stood out for sure. I like the way you communicate; it's very clear. I will continue to explore your channel!
I started reading your first book and totally fell off. I’ve got to get back with it. I’ve started small by cleaning my house very thoroughly and organizing things in a way so my home won’t be so distracting that I can’t focus on my practice.
I really want to find a coven, but I have found that I have lots of things to learn until I do.
Thank you so much for your books and videos, they have been so helpful.
You’re so welcome! Be gentle with yourself! I hope you find a coven when the time is right, but don’t be afraid to jump in even if you’re not totally sure you’re ready. Sometimes we never feel ready or like we know enough. 💙
Good to see you. Missed you. You always have great insight.
I am a musician as well, and I like the analogy. I have a lot of interest, and I am a Polymath. So, I have a level of expertise in a number of fields, and they all have of this type of in fighting with arguments about that is inconsequential. I'm a martial artist, and guys argue if you can kick someone in the head in a real fight. I play guitar, and people argue if tone is in the fingers, is it in the wood or the speakers for another example. Gun guys argue if the best round is 9mm or . 45. D@D player argues over edition. Over dungeon design, and if you should have Orcs in your game and if you do, are you a racist. In astronomy, is there really a Planet X and, if you think so are you a moron. And the list goes on and on.
Humans like to argue about stuff they are passionate about, and Witchcraft is no exception.
In all of my examples, you are right it is in a spectrum in all of them. Humans are diverse, highly flawed, and beautiful, and this crazy internet thing represents those true well, maybe too well.
Often, in my experience, people aren't aware of how they come across. Meaning the two parties are, in fact, having two different conversation while they believe they are on the same page.
I wish more people understood that standing in disagreement is actually a good thing. Most of the answers we seek are in a spectrum, and we should keep that in mind in all of our interactions.
In the end, we all just love each other. We're just humans, after all.
Thanks for the video Thorn, I have been missing your perspective on Witchcraft. Good seeing you again.😉
Well I like your metaphor. I think it probably is a spectrum. You and I probably do have very different approaches to it. My approach could just as easily be called occult blacksmithing as it can witch craft. And not what probably comes to mind for most people when we talk about witchcraft. Most people are probably thinking about Wiccan witchcraft, or atleast there perception of it. So does that mean I'm not a real witch? No. Im just built different. Lol.
I love your cat mug! 🐱 I like your perspective on this and the music metaphor. I think maybe it depends on our own personal definitions of “spectrum.” I don’t see it as a “spectrum” but more like an “umbrella”. Kind of like… say… woodworking. You can either be a basic whittler, or you can create furniture, or you can be master craftsman who creates ornate mouldings for high end houses. They are all woodworkers just with different focuses. A whittler can be a master in their craft just like the person who creates those ornate mouldings. I think of witchcraft the same way. Each person just has a different focus under the “witch umbrella.” Some focus on the “religion”, others focus on the more secular or practical. Of course… “practical” can be subjective to the individual practitioner.
It may be time to do a "get unready" / "be completely unprepared for everything."
Every day 😂
EXCELLENT video. Every thought you had; every word you chose - TRUTH. I really enjoyed this video and I haven’t seen you in a while! Still beautiful as always. Thank you for your message. I’ll definitely be sharing this video with others. Wow. Great job!
Thank you for making this video! I found it very affirming. In the late '90s, several elders told me that I was not actually Wiccan-though I self-identified as such-because my conception of Wicca was not specifically religious. After studying both Wicca and ancient pagan traditions, I had concluded that while the gods were certainly important (as were other types of spirits such as the Fae and ancestors), they were not the central aspect of Wicca.
In my view, the development of the spiritual faculties is far more critical than a witches prayer life. It is this development that enables contact with other planes of existence, and make practices such as "Drawing Down the Moon" (the invoking of the goddess on behalf of the coven) possible. I reasoned that this spiritual and personal development was of primary importance to the gods, rather than any overt worship we, as witches, might offer.
This perspective did not sit well with other members of the community, which, at the time, was drifting towards a primarily religious orientation. An idea that was often expressed during this period was that Wicca, even traditions like eclectic Wicca, was primarily a religion and need not involve any actual practice of magic.
I left the community shortly after these events and have practiced as a solitary ever since. I still consider myself a witch, or at least a sorceress, but it has been a long time since I worked specifically with a god or goddess. Instead, I focus on my own self-development, practicing tarot, meditation, mediumship, and, as far as my abilities allow, astral projection. Rituals and spells are another aspect of the craft that I have mostly ignored, but I hope to restart my practice, as regular ritual work can be extremely beneficial in many areas.
Anyhow, thank you for acknowledging that there is space for my perspective in witchcraft, if not necessarily Wicca. This is the first video I've watched on your channel, but I look forward to exploring more of your content soon.
Love your cat mug! Very informative & love the spectrum idea. Freeing, releasing!😊❤️
I love this one, Thorn.
I think it's totally a spectrum. As time goes on and witchcraft gets more mainstream, a lot of the core ideas become less and less about "being a witch" and more about will, focus, and manifestation.
I covet the cat mug. And I very much feel like a witch playing cords a lone in her bedroom, but I would also like a little more direction that's not books or the internet (but haven't found it yet).
8:08 I think this is do to a broad use of language. What most Religious Wiccan mean when they say the "don't do magick" they mean is they don't practice spells or enchant objects or made amulets in their daily lives outside of their Religious Rituals. All religious rituals involve magickal operations, Transmutation, Blessing, which is a form of enchantment, Purification, Banishings... etc. But they are not Witchcraft in because in this framework, Witchcraft of well a Craft first and foremost. So, you can do magick without being a witch or practicing witchcraft. And you can be a Witch without involving Religious Practice. But both Religion and Witchcraft involve occult, divine, magickal power and influences. At least that's what I think.
Always insightful perspective. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Thorn. ⭐️
Be a Legend of the place. Undisputable legend.
Hi :)
how to prepare a "seat for the spirit"
that we would like to take home with us from the forest? :D
I woke up the "green devil" because I was looking for help, and I still need it
but in my house
I don't want to imprison and catch my "forest fairy" into a trap
it's hard to expect help from someone you're imprisoned
How do You think we can prepare the "carriage"
in which our spiritual ally will come to our home with us?and stay?
a bottle left after wormwood vodka(with wormwood and other ingredients still inside)?
or maybe green obsydian?
But how to make the forest spirit want to live inside remaining free, not imprisoned ?
I still don't have the skills to see and hear spiritual beings, I have to rely on my witch friends, but for some time now when I went to the forest to a spring with incense and alcohol, emerald dragonfly appears more and more often near me wherever I go,
When I'm at home she flies next to the trees, and when I go to sleep I dream that I'm eating cigars and drinking absinthe :D because cigars were one of the incense offered in the forest spring :>
Two days ago a young fox sat down in front of the entrance to my house,
and I sat in front of him and we looked at each other :)
in the afternoon, when lots of people were in front of their houses in their gardens
He lay down on the grass as if he were at own home, like a tamed dog, he sat down as if waiting for someone to throw a stick
we were just two meters away :D
Next day I bought for him some chicken hearts,of course he ate all but no one knows when although we kept watch to see him again,in the blink of an eye, we suddenly realized that hearts under the trees were gone but no one saw when red-haired guy come and go :)
MAGIK!! in the forest and in practice :D
Do what you willo-the-wisp
Interesting context and analysis 🤔 ❤ lovely video and welcome back!
Speaking of festivals Tom Swiss and I were talking at FSG last week about how we have not seen you there for a while. FSG is under new management now and is greatly improved. Your concept of witchcraft as a spectrum is interesting, perhaps mapping the various practices / traditions on a multi (four?) axis chart given their respective attributes would be illustrative?
Jack Chanek posted a video response you might enjoy! Yes, I’m glad FSG is doing well! Unfortunately with an academic calendar August events are really difficult! But one day again, I hope!
Thanks, I will check it out!
Whichcraft is WHICH-ever you say it is. ✨
❤ the cat mug.
Wait. Was there an edit in a Thorn Mooney video? Lol I'm so excited for your new book!
It’s as fancy as I get. 😌
@@drawingKenaz 😄😄😄
Hey good to see you 🙏🙌
I definitely view witchcraft as more practice than religion (or at least, it can be either or), and this is such a great and nuanced conversation to bring up.
Thank you! I’ve enjoyed the responses! 💙
I love your cat mug ❤
Great thought provoking video ✨
How does that mug not poke you in the eyes? Love Hawk
I’m taking my life into my hands 🥲
I’ve been practicing witchcraft for as long as I can remember (over 45 years now), it being part of my family’s culture. I would recommend for those who are questioning, exploring or are new to the practice to read the history of witchcraft (starting in the pre-christian era). It may help you define your beliefs. There are an incredible amount of books readily available these days than there were over 45 years ago.
Do I need to nail this like Dan Carter? ;;)
Very well said!
I disagree, respectfully. I don't think that a witch that is dancing naked on the forest with her coven 7 days of the week is more witch then I am. That is a catholic concept in my eyes. Someone is more pious because they are more involved in the eyes of the comunity. Witchcraft for me is my first nature. I can do magic as unconciously as I breath. I hold my tradicions as naturaly asI brush my teeth. I don't like organized religion and I don't like to share my practices. Am my less of a witch? Spectrum inherintly is a scale from less to more. Witchcaft is never a chore to me, feels more like a mother's Embrace. It is never forced and never institucionalized. My tradicion came from the women from my family tru generations. Am I less of a witch? Are we having hierarchy in the craft now? Just like church? Really?
I don’t make the argument that a witch in a coven is more of a witch than someone who isn’t. I was thinking specifically of a light spectrum, which isn’t about less to more. Colors are different, but they exist on a spectrum. But I’m glad your practice fuels you the way it does! I’d also just note that assertions about inheritance and blood are used just as often to establish hierarchies. Witches who join covens and work to practice each day are *also* equally witches as those who come by it with less effort.
i think maybe you're not sure what a spectrum means lol
@@drawingKenaz any spectrum is a gradation of value, even color. That is why ultraviolet and infraread are in the oposit scale, one so high it can't be seen and the other so low it can't be seen... Magic that is passed down a family line does not carry hierarchy, my mother was a much more powerfull at comunicating with the dead than grandma and greatgrandma, great grandmother was a tradicional healer, she delivered babies, protected against the evel eye... my grandmother was great at sympathetic magic. The same way in families you have the one that sings the best, the one that cooks the best, the one that is great with children and the entire family reffers to that person in matters related to the gift, the same is in magic... hierarchy comes with organized religion. A family is a comunity where everyone comes together for the good of the family, a disfunctional family has hierarchy, where you listen to the head of the family just because and the one that has the greater knowlege gets shut down. The rigid structure of a formal religion can be stifling when the talents on magic are so vast... there are sirens out there that can enchant crowds with their voices, there are dancers out there that can change people's biorithms just by watching them dance. There are cooks that can heal a broken heart. Are they less magical or less of a witch?
Magic is not on a spectrum, each people has a different capacity of percieving magic and a different need to live magicaly, the same way some people need 12 hours of sleep and some people thrive in 4 hours of sleep, they are not more or less of a person because of that. Wich is the most "religious" the one that prays 5 times a day between Sunrise and sunset or the one wich every action is mindfull and made in honor and in offer to a God or Godess? The one that never prays but saves many lives as a paramedic and even on his off times keeps on allert on how to be of service or the one that looses himself in prayer but never remember to look to the brother at his side?
A path is not a spectrum, a path is a path. People go in different directions because we cannot all do the same thing. Imagine a world full of only lawyers... who would bake the bread, perform cirurgy or compose a relaxing melody? We are all pieces of a puzzle, we all complement each other and we all fit. Maybe if we are not fitting right now we are just near the wrong pieces...
I am very good at sencing energy, therefore I can feel magic everywhere can feel it coursing tru people, objects, animals, plants, I can see people bending, shaping, molding energy and releasing it even when they are not aware they are doing it. Seeing all that, that even babies mold and change energy and send energy on its way, how can I believe being a witch is a spectrum? To me sounds like saying being human is in a spectrum... that you are only a human when you are awake... if you are sleeping you are not human, when you are fully awake you are a human, when you are in the fog of getting up or going to sleep you are "in between" being human... when you are drunk you are in between being human... if I can see a pastor in a church using energy to make a line of people pass out and claim it to be "the power of the holly spirit" is that less of witchcraft? Is a circle of prayer for healing a sick person, where dozens of people chant in one voice less of a witchcraft? Is handfasting so different then a wedding in church? Is dancing naked in the forest any more or less fervorous then with the knee bent in front of a candle in a cathedral? In my view we are all fish and magic is water... name it witchcraft, name it christianism, budhism, islamism, conservatorism, progressivism, aristothelism, comunism, liberalism, insert any sports team that inflames passion, insert any popstar from any media. If it gathers enough passion, it gathers enough energy to make a change in the world... and what is the craft if not making changes in the real world using gathered energy for a purpuse? Fish are not less weat in the first 10 inches of wather then they are 30.000 feet under water... not all fish swim in deep water, but all of them swim, regardless of how deep they go, they are all weat.
@@robzombie69 spectrum is a tool to classyfy someting in gradation to two oposite ends... anything that has a gradation has a value atributed to it in hierarchy to something else. Colors are in a spectrum measured by wavelenghts. The higher the wave lenght the near it is to one end, the lower the near it is to the other. Being a numerc value you know wich color is higher on the spectrum and wich is lower. Another thing that is on a scale is the acid-base scale that goes from 0 to 14, one end is the strongest acid and the other is the strongest base, 7 is neutral. You know 0 is lower then 1 and 14 is higer then 13... another thing that exists in a spectrum are earthquaques on the rishter scale from 2 tru 9... guess wich earthquake is stronguest?
@@robzombie69 unless she is talking about ghosts... those spectrums are a bit different...
Hi I messaged you via website I'm having problems with forming the Taurus glyph with my fingers as instructed on page 57 of Taurus Witch I'm doing what it says but I ain't ending up with anything that looks Taurus 😂 any help would be great ♥️
You should ask Ivo! That’s his section!
what are the festivals you go to? I would love to meet more magic ppl T_T
I’m a southerner, so our two big ones are Mystic South and HexFest! I’d love to go north one year and try Paganicon and ConVocation. I hear they’re amazing! If you’re into camping there’s also Free Spirit Gathering in Maryland and Starwood in Ohio!
does there have to be a deity for it to be a religion, though?
No! I’ve made some shorter form videos on TikTok explaining how westerners influenced by Protestantism tend to have much narrower definitions of religion than in other parts of the world!
@@drawingKenaz its funny that seeking out that practical magic of "self transformation" is often overlooked in search of a grander thing to be a part of a "priesthood" of- but that seeking out of the practical magical connection to the world around us still falls short of elluding to a "soul" transformation across "lifetimes"...
im not against the language "soul" or "deity", however what i intend to convey is that the religion of invoking the practical magic is still a very meaningful one.
to some it even defies those grander mystical whatever whatevers that other people may mean when they use the word religion.
its taking the permission to connect with the world around us in defiance of whatever out there may or may not exist.
i find religion in that.
ive seen all your videos a million times over.
thanks.
I’m just starting out and realized that what I’m doing might be contradictory because I want to DIY it but I also want to be serious about it as a religion and I want to use it to meet short term goals and self-improvement but I also see it as not something I can walk away from at any time or should be able to just walk away from. I’m wondering if it’s possible to have the best of both worlds or as the saying goes ‘have your cake and eat it too’ or is that cheating. Also if the spectrum has to do with how new or recent something is to you. Like you automatically fall within the less serious side of the spectrum as you’re first starting out.
I see magic the same way I see time, or dimensions, or the marvel universe.lol. This is very much the spider web. Where if you turn left you went One direction and got into Celtic Wicca European traditions alexandrian and gardenerian. Or instead you turn right and got into Egyptian alchemy Golden Dawn Masonic traditions. Or you looked up your family history and found out you're one tenth Cherokee and decided to become an Indian shaman. In the 80s solitary witchcraft was very big and then you got people telling you you weren't a real magician if you weren't in a coven or a circle. It all depends on what you need and what you're willing to put out there.😊
I don't think that spectrum is the appropriate metaphor here since you're talking about many differences that aren't simply a matter of degree but are qualitatively different.
first of all that's not really a metaphor, and second there are multiple definitions & types of spectrums. for instance sexuality or gender being a spectrum is more like a rainbow of many colors than a line of point a to point b
@@robzombie69 I think you need to look up what a metaphor is because it definitely is one - as is "rainbow" - unless you think they are somehow ACTUALLY different colors. And, a spectrum (or rainbow) is a line from a to b. It is one dimensional.
@@gastronomist comparing to a rainbow would be a metaphor, but saying it is a spectrum is just interpretation of data. but i think saying a spectrum is a straight line is fuckin dumb, just as it would be fuckin dumb to say the human spectrums of gender, emotion, or spirituality are able to be quantified on a fuckin line or even a graph. but nice try lol
@@robzombie69 Then apparently you don't know what a spectrum is, which I personally find mind-boggling. Unless you've been talking about wavelengths of light this whole time, you have not been talking about a spectrum. ... And, if you can't quantify it, then you can't describe it s a 'spectrum' either. Otherwise, you're just putting a bunch of random qualities on a line. Do you realize that the colors of spectrum are not in an arbitrary order? They are necessarily in that order and they are quantifiable.