by Georgia Macleod

Created on: June 07, 2008

For a neophyte, it's important to understand that Wicca and witchcraft are not simply about casting spells and getting your heart's desire. One new to Wicca must begin by understanding themselves and gathering the knowledge necessary to understand how and why spells work and why ritual is important. As with learning most anything, it's best to have a firm base of understanding before jumping in and trying anything.

First, one must know and understand that balance is what is strived for. In most Wiccan studies, there is both a god and a goddess. Dianic Wicca is the one major exception to this rule because it is solely feminine. There is no god as a consort to the goddess. Gaining balance between the masculine and feminine is key because without both, there is no circle of life.

Second, one needs to use reflection and meditation to come to a greater understand of his or her self. When we know ourselves fully, the connection to the divine is stronger. Knowing ourselves also entails acknowledging and accepting things that we may not like. These things could range from a sordid past to self harm, to guilt or a mental illness. Once these things are accepted, the practitioner can then begin to try to look at any underlying reasons behind these things and heal or move past them. Sometimes this is done with the help of the divine.

Third, one must know the goddess and god. This is done through intense study of mythology and meditation. More often than not, the deities pick the practitioner, not the other way around. This process can be very rewarding, but it can also be frightening (at first), depending on the deity.

Fourth, one must have an understanding of the four alchemical elements. Earth, air, fire, and water are the four elements. Each represents a specific color, emotion, action, creature (both physical and mythological) and cardinal direction. No circle can be drawn for spellwork or ritual without this knowledge.

Finally, when the practitioner knows him or her self fully and has mastered him or her self, can he or she begin to successfully perform spells. Regardless of the number or quality of tools, knowing thyself is the key to successful spellwork.

With proper training and study, anyone can learn to cast spells and perform rituals. It is, however, very important for any practitioner to do his or her homework before beginning to try to manipulate the universe around them. It can be dangerous for a beginner who is untrained and unknowledgeable to do so.

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