traditions

Traditional Wicca Praxtices

There are many different types of traditions that Wicca�s practice. Most are eclectic or solitary, but many also follow the more old and strict traditions.

Alexandrian:
Alex Sanders in England founded this tradition. The rituals are based on the Gardnerian forms, and the rules are close to the Gardnerians, however, they are made less strict, and certain requirements have been made optional.

British:
The British tradition revolves around the Celtic And Gardnerian beliefs. Degrees can be obtained, and their traditions are structured by their beliefs. It also includes Druids.

Celtic:
This is based on the traditions of the Celtic world, which include Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and Gaul. Druid is used much in this tradition and it shares a certain amount with the Teutonic�s, such as the use of runes. It is earth based and extremely strong in the religious aspects, but not so much the practical. Many Christian traditions and aspects were drawn from the Celtic tradition.

Ceremonial:
Ceremonial traditions could be considered the opposite of the Celtic. There is less emphasis on religion and more on the magickal aspect. Rituals are usually very complicated and practices are done toward the secret and hidden side of magick. While there are many Ceremonial witches, it is not a Wicca-only tradition.

Dianic:
Margaret Murray founded this feminist tradition of Wicca in 1921. It focuses on the Goddess more than the God, especially the Goddess Diana, or Artemis to the Greeks. Some even eliminate the God altogether. Its' Covens are unofficial and do not require any official initiation to get in.

Eclectic:
Eclectic Wiccans either have no tradition at all, or follow only the practices of many different traditions that fit their lifestyle the best. This is an ideal tradition for those who are caught up with busy lifestyles and don't have time for the strict rules of the older movements.

Faerie:
Faerie Wiccnas are also called Fay, Fae, Fey, Faery, Fairy, or Fairie. This tradition is based on faerie legends and lore, and consists of Celtic, Druid, and modern witchcraft practices.

Gardnerian:
Gerald Gardner founded The Gardnerian tradition. It is the strictest of all Wicca traditions. Gardnerians are very secretive and must take oaths upon initiation. Degrees or status can be obtained through training. Rituals are complicated and are not offered to uninitiated. It is not for a solitary witch and Gardnerian Covens are neither easy to locate nor join once located.

Hereditary:
A Hereditary Wicca can trace the studies of the Craft on their family tree and were taught by a living relative. It is not a tradition you can follow unless you were raised by a Wicca parents, who in turn were raised by Wicca parents, etc.

Kitchen Witch:
The name basically says it all. Kitchen witches practice their magick at home and, of course, in the kitchen, or hearth. They concentrate on the practical side of magick, as well as the element Earth. Many use potions rather than do magick through spirituality. It is extremely practical for those who live in the city and have small workspaces.

Pictish:
This tradition is Scottish and has a strong connection to nature. It is more magickal than religious, and is practiced as a solitary tradition.

Seax-Wica:
Also known as Saxon-Wicca, it was founded in 1973 by a man named Raymond Buckland. His contribution to Wicca is great and many popular books today were written by him.

Shamanism:
Shamanism beliefs are connected to contact with the spirit world. Many have probably heard of this term, but haven't connected it with witchcraft. A Shaman can work acts of healing, divination, and magick by talking with spirits.

Solitary:
These are witches who prefer to work in private and alone than with a Coven. Solitary witches pick any kind of tradition that can fit well to their practice, and many Eclectics are also solitary.

Strega:
This is an Italian tradition that began around 1353, with a woman named Aradia. Gerald Gardner found his inspiration from Leland's book "Aradia, Gospel of the Witches" and the book is the most authentic remainder of the original tradition. The teachings are insightful and should be studied, especially those who study many different forms of Wicca.

Teutonic/Nordic:
This tradition came from ancient time. The Teutons speak the Germanic group of languages (English, Dutch, Icelandic, Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish). Those who practice Norse are often followers of Asatru, and many follow Scandinavian and Germanic deities such as Odin and use divination methods such as runes.