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Articles listed in this section were contributed by members of the wider community and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of House Shadow Drake.

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Differences Between Witchcraft and Wicca





One of the most commonly asked questions is "What are the differences between Witchcraft and Wicca?" The following pages provide information about some of the more noticeable differences between the two religions as they relate to the actual belief structure. These same differences also often exist between Neo-Paganism and Traditionalism on a broader level.
  • Ethics
  • A brief synopsis of the ethics found in traditional Witchcraft verses those found within the Neo-Pagan and Wiccan religions. Traditional Witches do not adhere to the Wiccan Rede or Three-Fold Law.

  • Guardians
  • In a sacred area, a traditionalist Witch may choose (or not) to utilize a personal guardian. Wiccans and Neo-Pagans call quarters and summon watchtowers.

  • Rites of Passage
  • Information about the use of dedication rituals and formalized initiation within Traditional Witchcraft. The entire concept of self-initiation is something found only in Neo-Pagan and Wiccan religions and does not exist within traditional Witchcraft.

  • Ritual Attire
  • Traditional Witches do not worship their Gods in the nude, and the idea of doing so is thought to be disrespectful. Many Wiccans and Neo-Pagans feel just the opposite.

  • Written Books
  • An explanation of the use of a grimoire within Traditional Witchcraft verses the utilization of a Book of Shadows within Wicca. Some traditionalists do not keep books as their tradition is kept in solely an oral manner.

  • Secrets
  • The idea of secrets being held is very integral to traditional Witchcraft. To put it simply, there are no secrets left within Wicca and Neo-Paganism.

  • Triple Deities
  • The concept of triple deities is found within traditional Witchcraft and Neo-Paganism. However, there is no use of a Maiden, Mother, and Crone archetype. This concept is a modern creation within the Wiccan and Neo-Pagan religions.









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