by Sylvere ap Leanan

Created on: November 28, 2010   Last Updated: November 29, 2010

Wicca, sometimes called "the craft of the wise," "witchcraft," or "the Craft," is a neopagan religion which gained popularity in the 20th century.  There are no reliable statistics for the number of people practicing Wicca; however, ReligiousTolerance.org has estimated Wicca to be the fifth largest organized religion in the United States. 

Although the popularity of movies and television shows such as "The Craft," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," and "Charmed" have led to an increased interest in Wicca, especially among teenagers, the religion bears little similarity to these fictional portrayals.  While the study of Wicca can be a life-long endeavor, here are a few tips to help you understand "Wicca 101." 

Introduction 

Wicca is an earth-based religion that places importance on a reverence for nature and preserving the environment, places at least equal emphasis on the feminine aspect of the divine as the masculine, and may include magic (magick) or spells as part of ritual observances to bring about change in the physical world.   

History 

Gerald Gardener is usually credited with founding modern Wicca in the late 1940s.  Gardener combined the beliefs, seasonal celebrations, and deities of pre-Christian Celtic tribes with symbols and elements of ceremonial magick.  Today, there are sects of Wicca dedicated to recreating the traditional spiritual practices of the Druids, ancient Greeks, Norse, and Egyptians.  Other Wiccan sects are eclectic, incorporating elements from a wide range of religious systems. 

Beliefs 

Wicca is a decentralized religion lacking a holy book, a prophet, or organized leadership.  Followers may be solitary or belong to small groups called covens, groves, or circles.  Some groups follow a system of worship, called a "tradition," which is handed down from older members to new ones.  While specific beliefs vary from one individual to another, there are a few concepts held by a majority of Wiccans.   

Deity - Most Wiccans believe a creative force exists in the universe, typically represented by a fertility goddess and her male consort, called the Goddess and God, or the Lord and Lady.  Some Wiccans are polytheistic, viewing the various gods and goddesses of the ancient world as living beings.  Others may be pantheistic, equating deity with nature, or they may be monotheistic and perceive historical gods and goddess as archetypal

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