What is Wicca?

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Thumbnail Photograph Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license: creativecommons.org/licenses/...
The photograph is attributed to Wikimedia Commons user Malloym: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wicca#/...
References:
Ethan Doyle White, Wicca: History, Belief, and Community in
Modern Pagan Witchcraft, (Sussex Academic Press, 2016)
Sabina Magliocco, Witching Culture: Folkore and Neopaganism
in America, (University of Pennsylvania Press, 2004)
Ronald Hutton, The Triump of the Moon: A History of Modern
Pagan Witchcraft, (Oxford University Press, 2019)
Leon A. van Gulik, “The Blind Moondial Makers: Creativity and
Renewal in Wicca,” in Magic and Witchery in the Modern West
(Palgrave Macmillan, 2019)
Patricia Iolana, “Pagan Scholarship from a Pagan Perspective,”
Religious Studies Project.
Photo Attributions:
Beltane Altar, Flickr user RaeVynn Sands, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Wi...
Activist photograph, Wikimedia user Ycco, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Wi...
God and Goddess busts, Wikimedia user Ντεβ, commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
Pentacle altar, Wikimedia user, Malloym: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wicca#/...
Wicker Horned God, Wiccan Pentacle, all from Ethan Doyle White: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi...
Diana sculpture, copyright wikimedia user, David Monniaux: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Fa...

[@theodixon3298]

I'm takin religious studies at university, you're the Khan Academy of the subject

[@ReligionForBreakfast]

That’s the long term goal of the channel! The Crashcourse or Khan Academy of religious studies.

[@joshuaswart8211]

@@ReligionForBreakfast Honestly, I don't think you have much competition. Your stances in videos don't really take sides (that is to say, you never really give a value judgment of a religious belief). You cite your sources (which makes you nothing less than a saint in my book). Your content is relatively easy for someone with little religous literacy to understand. And probably most importantly, your content isn't nearly as Abrahamic-centric as anything else I've seen. I watch a lot of videos on a lot of channels, but ReligionForBreakfast is one of only two channels that I support on Patreon.

[@chaseharrison2064]

@@joshuaswart8211 perfectly said

[@ActiveAdvocate1]

Nice! I have two degrees in Religious Studies. Even if it's not required, do yourself a favour and take at least one course in world religions. You'll probably really enjoy yourself. This channel really is gold though, I agree with you there.

[@shawndurham297]

@@joshuaswart8211 I’m making a page of my own, thanks to RFB inspiriting me!

[@thedebatehitman]

I love how he explains religion while treating others’ faiths and spiritual practices with the respect that they deserve.

[@Travieso78702]

Totally agree, I love that his factual without twisting it into a judgement.

[@erikestrada9274]

Its just informational and factual, this is basically a thorough study of it, this is what the world needs to learnn

[@htoodoh5770]

@@Travieso78702 judgement is not wrong.

[@lewisedwardson7776]

​@@htoodoh5770 Thinking for yourself and having your own opinion of whether something is right or wrong is important at an individual level. But telling people in advance that something is right or wrong can get in the way of them understanding the details of what you're explaining; especially those who are very strongly in belief or opposition. A lot of people just decide to believe or disprove something entirely based on how the person saying it sounds about it. Eliminating bias, no matter how sure you are that something is right or wrong, is important if you are giving that information to other people, because information is more effectively processed by the recipient if bias is removed. If the person giving that perspective sounds negative towards the beliefs, some dedicated followers will then ignore what the person is saying, and miss accurate details of what they themselves profess to believe. Meanwhile, other people upon hearing that negativity, dismissal, or amusement, will fail to understand what it is the religion's followers, who they disagree with, believe. Right or wrong, understanding what people believe helps people to understand each other. Some of the people who still don't understand each other often don't have enough information because despite supporting or opposing something for months, years, or decades, they didn't remember much of what it actually is, they just knew that they agreed or disagreed with all of it, whatever it was. To summarize, it's not that having judgment is wrong, it's that passing judgment is not always best, especially when the goal is communicating details, not opinions. Also, this is a reply, not a rebuttal, you are correct that judgment is not wrong.

[@htoodoh5770]

@@lewisedwardson7776 Passing on judgement is not erroneous if the speaker doesn't tried to hide it but is clear about it and clarified it.

[@Solipsisticdaydreams]

I, raised a Wiccan, came ready to be upset. I’m leaving impressed. A local Wiccan teacher said to me once “ask 12 witches what Wicca/witchcraft is and you’ll get 13 different answers.”

[@AK4Uwolfen]

that is a jewish saying, ask 2 jews/rabbis get 3 answers.

[@Solipsisticdaydreams]

@@AK4Uwolfen heh that’s awesome. she’s known for appropriating as a practice, I wonder if that’s a thing.

[@michaelclueless]

@@Solipsisticdaydreams That is something I heard 40 years ago, probably an adaptation to the number in a coven. I never questioned its origin, and I’m pretty sure it’s not important. The message is true enough!

[@donominame8859]

Agreed

[@michaelcallas9463]

I am blessed to be the eldest son of a Shaman/sorcerer/ healer in the Mexica/Toltec way, and this video brought me so much joy. 1: first class video, I NEED more and longer format, 2. My father always speaks of our Wiccan brethren with the utmost respect for a beautiful, powerful, balanced practice, 3. It is fascinating how progressive and humanistic the core of the practice is…its diverse, open minded, inquisitive, and rebellious, its of this time AND ancient! ❤

[@michaelfeist4683]

Living in Ecuador. Enjoying your show. Age 67. Contiuing my education. Age 67. Good for the brain.

[@EpikStorm101]

7:27 Can we just take a moment to appreciate that Jedi Knight and Heavy Metal are also on this list.

[@logansmith2703]

Also that Jedi Knight is 3 times higher than the next one.

[@dylanrichardson199]

Cool playlists nicholas, but your missing something for the atheist music one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZatdKyAbdubgK8

[@nickvliet4614]

@@logansmith2703 I think a lot of people put that as a joke

[@m_d1905]

@@nickvliet4614 There are sone very serious Jedi believers out there. Interesting to be sure.

[@MultiTomcat67]

The Jedi "religion" started in England as a tax write off. There everyone is required donate X amount to a charity. I was told there were LOTS of options & few/no restrictions.

[@Alexander-wq7qo]

I will say that this is probably the most detailed and accurate video on the Wicca done by a non-Wiccan in all of KZbin. Most Neo-Wiccans on KZbin don't even include this information on their beginner videos. I am extremely proud!

[@goodkarma.publishing]

Wicca is a practice, not a religion!

[@Alexander-wq7qo]

@@goodkarma.publishing its both

[@alexreid1173]

@@goodkarma.publishing It’s both. You might be thinking of witchcraft? Which is not a religion by itself, but Wicca definitely is

[@Lamapanty]

Neo-Wiccans? So over the span of at least 2-4 years ''Wicth craft" have blossomed amongst young people, perhaps more as a trend, but I think at least that's the vibe I've gotten from the internets. And I'm curious if this is where some of them get it from :)

[@prodigalson6166]

​@@goodkarma.publishingtechnically you're right but legally it has to be considered a religion. However for some people it is their religion. This guy did hit the head. It's like if you have everybody imagine a cup you are going to get a different cup with each person and no two cups will be the same.

[@couragebuff5060]

As an eclectic witch I find my strongest connection to my faith by working with and taking care of the earth, even if it's just my garden. I do celebrate the Oak King and Holly King as well as the Maiden, Mother, and Crone. To me, humans are not above nature, we are equal to the great whales and smallest mice. We are equal to all the plants, oceans, and stars. We are chaos and peace. It makes me feel full and inspired to be connected to nature and I often worry that humanity is getting further and further away from nature. This video was wonderful and thank you for making it. I am always researching my faith and trying to learn more so I appreciate you helping with that. Blessed be!

[@spacecardinal]

❤

[@advisorywarning]

I am Taoist and agree with everything you said 💜

[@couragebuff5060]

@fredfreddy2338 I use contraception but I think its up to each individual

[@backwardsbandit8094]

I dont practice Wicca anymore, however the eclectic approach to Wicca that I practiced in my adolescence was a pivotal part of me learning about myself and developing my understanding of the world. It was the self-directed form of spirituality that drew me to it, because to self-direct your own religious practices means that you have to understand yourself to the best of your ability, which is a journey within itself. Sometimes I feel as though I moved on from it with too many unanswered questions. Maybe I'll rejoin my spiritual journey into Wicca in the future, although I worry that I've become to cynical.

[@charlesterry2113]

Don’t forget to try other religions, your free to try any, like how Buddhism teaches you to let go of desire, or how Christianity teaches that all are imperfect and through humility can be forgiven, seek and you will find, explore other religions and find the one best for you

[@noufa4756]

Islam is the answer

[@iwishyou1956]

well, for you but not for everyone. @@noufa4756

[@Noelani-rh1en]

I was Wiccan for only six years out of the 26 that I've been a practicing Witch. I left the religion with a lot of unanswered questions lol I can't help it. I need answers. Also, it's difficult for me to just believe when we don't know for certain why or how. It's just easier for me to believe in the energy, and to copy what I see in nature. I believe Witchcraft without religion is a good answer for myself, maybe it's something you can think on

[@WitchyCharlie]

I come back to Wicca over and over - the practice of it waxes and wanes which I think is fine. This Feb will be 25 years of me practicing. I have had an altar in my home that entire time although I often only do a few rituals a year. I do practice mindfulness, chant, meditate and do yoga - all of which I feel makes me a sort of witch/pagan. I tell people Wicca saved my life - made me feel in control at a time when I felt I had none. It continues to be very important to me. I think it’s fine to take time and come back to things. I wish you good luck.

[@thomfiel]

If you've been brought up in a particular religious tradition, and are intellectually curious enough to learn about all the others around the world, then this is a good place to start. This channel does a good job summing up a complex belief system in just a few minutes.

[@goodkarma.publishing]

Wicca is a practice, not a religion!

[@lovrboi]

i am so glad i’ve just found this channel. i was raised conservative christian and always taught to stay away from witchcraft and satanism (always used interchangeably in that context) and told that it is evil and the devils work. as i’ve grown into my own person, i realized that i disagree with so much of the christian beliefs (at least those taught in most churches today) that i no longer identify as christian. my family doesn’t know that i no longer consider myself christian and that i no longer fully believe in God (at least in their view of Him) and i could probably never tell them or try to explain my own beliefs (but they might have an idea i’m not christian because of my beliefs that i do state and argue with them about). anyways, as i’ve become more religiously independent, i've become so fascinated by other religions, beliefs, and cultures, and i wish such things were taught even in christian settings. i believe that learning about other religions and expanding your worldview is so important in order to understand your own religion and potentially either strengthen your beliefs or open your mind to other new beliefs. without this, it is so easy to move people in the conservative christian world away from other cultures which i believe leads to so many misconceptions about other religions and cultures (especially with witchcraft) and lack of respect for those outside of their beliefs. this makes it so easy to brainwash those raised in this environment and narrowing their worldview and mindset when i imagine they would largely change their views if they were better educated and had better understanding. i wish others would be more open minded. sorry for the random rant lol i didn’t expect to have so many thoughts on this oops

[@aaron2891]

@@goodkarma.publishing and yet many Wiccans actually believe in their pantheons? I get that there are nonbelieving practitioners of Wicca, but not everyone is cosplaying it.

[@vids595]

I would say the best place to start is learning about logical fallacies. Rationality Rules would be a good start for a youtube channel.

[@harrietharlow9929]

@@aaron2891 My MIL is a witch and she absolutely beieves in her deities (she works with the Egyptian pantheon). She's proof that at least some witches and Wiccans (she IDs as a Pagan Witch) do believe in whatever gods they work with.

[@dashingtherouxthesnow4017]

Awesome, I'm glad you're touching on more that just the 'Big Six' religions. It's really refreshing to see you touch on smaller religions/religious movements/spiritual movements. Can't wait to watch - keep it up!

[@ReligionForBreakfast]

Thanks! I’m trying real hard to branch out of the usual subjects on this channel.

[@dashingtherouxthesnow4017]

@@ReligionForBreakfast It's a breath of fresh air - I'm partway through the second year of my Philosophy/Religion degree and we don't really branch out into much beyond the Abrahamic religions. That being said, your previous videos on Gnosticism have inspired me to focus on the Infancy Gospel of Thomas for my upcoming biblical studies essay :)

[@____________838]

That is fairly understandable, though, as the Abrahamic religions, Hindu and Buddhism have had the greatest impact on modern society.

[@InhabitantOfOddworld]

@@____________838 Yet the greatest impact on those religions would be their pagan predecessors. One cannot fully understand christianity without understanding greco-roman religion and tradition. Likewise, one cannot fully grasp buddhism without knowing it's vedic roots. A ground-up approach would be ideal and for RFB, that would involve approaching lesser-known spiritual practices.

[@stylicho]

@@ReligionForBreakfast Can you do one on Zoroastrianism

[@Sandalwoodrk]

I have some wiccan friends but I've never looked into it much Its a lot more greek inspired than I realized makes me really interested in learning more

[@joho9815]

I love how he keeps it moving fast and just gets right to the point. So many You Tubers blather on and on with loooong introductions. He gets right to it! 👍

[@mathamster7909]

176,632 Jedi knights out in the UK. I guess order 66 didn't get to there

[@MagnaMater2]

I couldn't help wondering how many of these are secret Sith.

[@LuisAldamiz]

I'm pretty sure Jedism is based on the ancient teachings of the peoples of the 70s, who only knew of one trilogy.

[@Crick1952]

@@LuisAldamiz Much of Jedi teachings didn't come around until the prequel era. The seven forms of lightsaber combat, the Trials ect

[@LuisAldamiz]

@@Crick1952 - Are you a member of the Jedi sect? I understand that their beliefs are in the line of "the Force" and the ligh and dark sides of it, not particularly dedicated to light saber fetishism, but I may be wrong.

[@SkywalkerSamadhi]

Oh it did. It just didn't get very far!! 😏

[@JackRackam]

7:29 Ah yes, the church of heavy metal

[@KomodoMagic]

The best church

[@luciferMorningstar666_____]

The best ❤️😁breeeeeee BLEGH

[@edgar-sama642]

Jedi Knights are there too

[@dylantennant6594]

Is that a real thing?

[@rachel_sj]

They take that Church very seriously in Scandinavia 🤘🏽

[@ashleyrose4975]

I was raised Wiccan, which is not common based on my life experience. My mom privately practiced wiccan and concealed her beliefs between herself and I alone. This was to keep both herself and little me from judgement. It was some of the most pleasant experiences I've had in my life. My mom had told me to choose to believe or not believe in anything I wanted, and that it was acceptable for me to practice any religion I wanted. And I did, I went to different churches quite a few times and unfortunately I had a scary experiences. I was not religious for most of my life but did feel spiritual at times. I now enjoy reading texts / watching videos about daoism. I do still appreciate wicca and occasionally I practice. I have since met peers who practice wicca who are also very pleasant. I decorate very "witchy" according to my friends/peers, which encourages me to hide this side of me more. As this is not a compliment and anything that is not one of the six major religions is seen as psuedoscience that weird girls like. This is all to say that wicca is not that weird! A lot of people secretly practice this religion. Thank you for making a respectful and educational video on this religion.

[@kekistanihelpdesk8508]

Nice fantasy world you have constructed. Perhaps you should be a writer.

[@amber-xh4gv]

@@kekistanihelpdesk8508 do you think that wiccans don't exist or smth? 😭

[@schechter01]

@@kekistanihelpdesk8508 "Kekistani" fits you, definitely

[@lme2089]

I never knew the correct way to pronounce Samhain. I love your channel. Every October I watch your dia de Los muertos, voodoo vudu, wicca, etc videos. They're so interesting! I wish I had a teacher like you when I was in school! I dont know if it's got anything to do with being a Scorpio, but when autumn hits, my interest in spirituality really peaks!

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

Thank you for an excellent, even-handed presentation on Wicca. I’ve been a (non-Wiccan) Pagan for nearly 50 years, and this is one of the best introductions to Wicca I’ve come across.

[@goodkarma.publishing]

Wicca is a practice, not a religion! Pagan is the religion... so you are a non-Wicca practicing Pagan. (:

[@theblue389]

@@goodkarma.publishing Witchcraft is a practice. Paganism is a broad term that refers to many non-abrahamic faiths. Wicca is a type of pagan religion, as it has its own set of beliefs (however individual and eclectic they are).

[@cartoonraccoon2078]

@@goodkarma.publishing Not very wicca of you to be telling people who/what they are. Very internet of you though.

[@jr2904]

How sad, worshipping inanimate objects

[@Cattrix999]

@@jr2904 Where did the worshipping of inanimate objects come in.. I don't remember any information in this video about that at all. ?

[@kriegh94]

I didn't know of the Wiccan gods, but the Horned God reminds me rather heavily of Cernunnos. The tripartite goddess is also a common "trope" in Indoeuropean pagan religions: the Matres, Brigid/Brigantia, the Norns, Fates, Furies...

[@ChristopherWeiss]

Wiccans often celebrate Cernunnos as the Lord and consort of the Lady

[@Songcrafter25]

Spot on there! The Lord is often celebrated as Cernunnos by many of us. You will also find different correlations in different traditions. Nicely spotted!

[@professorquarter]

I behavior, Wiccans remind me a lot of the Horned Rat.

[@exposeevil5492]

@@professorquarter horned rat?

[@justelder6192]

Haahaha, i did not know his name. I always called him Little Baphomet.

[@SteviiLove]

This is probably the best wiccan video from someone that isn't wiccan I've ever seen. Really grateful for that ❤

[@sm32646]

Hey, thanks for the shout-out in your bibliography, Andrew! I love your work, and often include your videos as materials for students in my classes. This video is no exception!

[@DrewKane]

A video on Tengrism would be fun.

[@Kosovar_Chicken]

Hurrrrr errrrrr yrrrrr

[@jonpaulyc-eng474]

videos on Tengrism and Burkhanism would be really cool!

[@lizs606]

Yesss. Either this, or Suomenusko / Finnish Native Faith for me

[@francomuscellini1744]

I don't even know what that is, so a video about it would be very nice

[@stylicho]

@@lizs606 yes, it would be nice to see a little in regards to Native American beliefs. Although considering how many tribes that may be overwhelming

[@MagnaMater2]

7:30 - Most of the people are Jedi. - Now... I imagine Sith are missing, because there are only two, and that's statistically insignificant.

[@Danko_Sekulic]

I am a Sith! I even have yellow eyes!

[@GeistInTheMachine]

@@Danko_Sekulic That's called liver failure or cirrhosis.

[@dawn8293]

This was a pretty helpful overview for me. I'm an atheist and I don't believe in the supernatural, but I think that incorporating spiritual practices in my life and connecting with nature would be beneficial to my mental health, so I'm exploring my options. I feel an especially desire for spirituality when seasons change, as a way of reflecting on the passage of time and the cycle of the earth and nature.

[@RazanJunior]

I'm also doing the same thing

[@thenightwatchman1598]

if you speak in such broad banal strokes. your not as smart as you think.

[@willmosse3684]

I find modern secular interpretations of the Buddhist Dharma great for this. I am learning so much from it. It is more about the internal conditions of the psyche than external things like changing seasons, but one can get a real sense of connection to nature from it. Check out talks by American dharma teacher Joseph Goldstein if you are interested - he is really wonderful. In the UK, the meditation retreat Gaia House is great.

[@AshleyHope4More]

As a pagan woman who has taken part in lots of Wiccan rituals, I just want to say thank you for the thoughtful and compassionate video. I learned some new things here and felt seen in the other parts. Thank you ♥

[@mclovinmclovin1421]

Have you heard of invisible dog trackers in Kendallville Indiana there's a wiccan by the name of sachel sutton you should see something by the name of walking KZbins it's 🤯 mind blowing and controlling

[@rickyretail1]

I’m at the Avebury Stones daily at the moment…it’s the only place I feel at home…it gives me great comfort and I’m there giving out hugs regularly

[@yugioh5222]

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. 34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. 35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. - But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death

[@muda1312]

@@yugioh5222 bruh imagine trying to convert a pagan, you really think they haven't already considered Christianity thouraghly? After all there is no place where the gangrenous limbs of your religion does not polute.

[@shaquadradeloiserussell8659]

you are no pagan and havent been part of crap. get off this story telling crap.

[@chiron14pl]

As a Wiccan minister I'll give you kudos for accuracy and, given the brief time, completeness. Well done!

[@chiron14pl]

One omission that is important, is the rise of open pagan festivals. Many people come to one or more of those periodically even though they may be solitary practitioners the rest of the time. This has helped expand the reach of the religion enormously.

[@natesenft5376]

How do you get into the religion? It sounds interesting and I would like to learn more.

[@ceasefire2825]

yall ever get salem witch trialed or are things good these days?

[@lunaballuna]

@@natesenft5376 I know a couple of Wiccans (all 4 are above 40) and the younger 2 were raised into it. I'm not sure how their parents got into it, but they are incredibly nice people. Even though I'm atheist, I love when he talks about his practices and his beliefs. It's incredibly intriguing.

[@Tarotlynx]

@@ceasefire2825 We must always be on guard, especially with a stuffed Supreme Court. The burning times could return at any moment. It is something we must always keep in mind.

[@JBSwanstrom]

What I love about this channel is there is no judgment on the subject and that judgment is what drove me away from organized religion. Thank you for the straightforward information as I continue my journey.

[@lunalynn1396]

This channel is amazing!! I'm so happy I found it. So much creditable information all in one place. Thank you for your work

[@eugenio5774]

I love this channel! your explanations are clear, and I love how you treat every faith respectfully, never putting in doubt the validity of anyone's belief but simply explaining it.

[@laurenmiller4824]

I really appreciate your channel. It’s where we can just learn about different religions or ways of thought without bias. (I have taken college courses where professors taught with bias and hatred for ideas that were against their own.) It’s a breath of fresh air to know you will inform without pushing an agenda. (: Thank you for your hard work.

[@alankent]

I appreciate this non biased approach also

[@keturahspencer1211]

Lauren, I had a similar experience. My professer actually referred to Gerald Gardner as Gerard Gardner. 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@heressomestuffifound]

Would love to see a video on Thelema!

[@ChristopherWeiss]

Yes, please

[@ggalahadx]

I second this big time

[@knotlock]

Yep!

[@EclecticoIconoclasta]

Also on Chaos Magick and Tantra

[@nephalemresurrection7518]

Yes We need Thelema

[@DaniloFSilva-gf2kt]

what an amazing video. The clear and direct way of approaching the religion is very efficient. One will learn and understand wicca better once watching this video. Thank you for your work!

[@robertmasengale9366]

This is a great breakdown. It's very respectful, and attempts to give a solid overview. It does so very well.

[@AsiniusNaso]

Excellent explanation! I’d like to add that Wicca is highly syncretic, with different covens drawing from many different spiritual beliefs. There is also a surprisingly large Wiccan community in the US military and among veterans!

[@baddog9320]

You are welcome. It took a lot of work for that. And a soldier died to to get that. Killed by her commander in September 2001 Ft Hood Texas. The commanders name was Capt. Kurt Woods.

[@rocio292]

@Duane Why do they join the military? What is their agenda, to move up in power using magic maybe?

[@killerv135]

@Duane I know many that used Magick to do many things. Most pagans live under secrecy to undermine christianity, and pretend to be things they really are not(Catholics for instance, or the witch hunts is another crafted by pagans to undermine christianity). I grew up in and around Magick, witches, wizards, and they are clever and many are in places of power now, why do you think inclusion is so important today(There symbol is freedom of choice without ridicule, so it's easy to spot one)? They are brilliant because they learn much, but they have one major fatal flaw, and us violets always keep quiet about this flaw. A lot of people don't know that your beliefs doesn't matter but your actions call forth your side. The more the marry they say, Atheist, Buddhist, Islam, Catholics, even Christianity today goes against True Christianity. They create weapons without touching them, building without sowing, conquering by cunning speech, destroying without hurting their own future. They're smart, because they serve a brilliant being, they that they serve taught by the more brilliant beyond understanding.

[@junjunjamore7735]

@@killerv135 I think the only thing "undermining Christianity" is.. Christianity.

[@phoenix_risingscorpio5227]

I am one of those military veterans that fought for our right to be recognized as an official religion. I still have my dog tags from when we were listed as "other" for religion and then when i got married n changed my last name we had officially been recognized so my tags were stamped with "wicca" and we were allowed to have our symbol on our headstone at the national cemeteries. It was a VERY big deal! @Duane The point of service and why most, i can not nor wouldn't speak for all vets, join is to serve our community which would be you. I have delt with a lot of people much like yourself who speak with much anger or fear of what they dont understand and thats ok. We fought for your right to speak your mind and be whoever or whatever you want. Like any job we hope to move up in rank but not any different than anyone else. It's not nefarious as you make it out to be. Granted every religion has an extreme group to it (you really cant get away from that) I wish you the best and everyone reading this. Thank you for your time. Blessed be!

[@internetchild6066]

THANK YOU FOR PRONOUNCING SAMHAIN PROPERLY

[@chillie-sauce]

IKRRR ITS SO SATISFYING WHEN PEOPLE DO THAT

[@LAGallerina]

While at the same time totally botching the last name Murray! 😂 It's Murr-ee! Like Bill Murray.

[@alphadawg81]

Aaaww! ...I'm not alone.

[@aidanwoodward3975]

7:29 Ah yes the one true religion: Heavy metal

[@johnfairweather7012]

Very well done, thank you for providing citations as I myself am looking into demystifying some of these topics

[@AliciaNyblade]

Eclectic Wiccan here. For a non-Wiccan summarizing our faith in such a short video, especially since, like you said, there are so many variables to it depending on who you ask, this was very well done. Personally, I work with the Goddess and God (and several specific deities who fall under those larger categories) and I think that, if people are going to join covens, they should include both men and women. While feminism in Wicca absolutely has its place, as it should, I think that Dianic Wiccans' focusing ONLY on the Goddess and having female-only covens is no better than the patriarchal religious and social systems many of us sought sanctuary from through Paganism/Wicca in the first place. If, as many Wiccans do, we want Western society to move away from being so heavily patriarchal, swapping patriarchy for matriarchy is impractical and hypocritical. Only societal and spiritual egalitarianism will bring true balance. But that's just me. Blessed be.

[@sophiamacdonald1949]

Oh my goodness these are exactly my thoughts, in Italian magic there’s a very heavy use of feminine imagery and rites and rituals for women (during mensuration, birth, death etc,) but outsides praise it as this women’s only pagan cult when it REALLY isn’t, and balance between masc and fem energy is very important, and people have even written super dodgy books about it….

[@Junkinsally]

As long as they are actively discriminating against males, there is nothing wrong with women forming a women’s only coven that focuses on the religion from a female point of view which has traditionally been left out mainstream religions.

[@AliciaNyblade]

@@Junkinsally I completely agree. The female perspective on spirituality has been terribly ignored and demonized and it deserves its time to shine. There's also nothing wrong with forming women-only covens if everyone in the group decides that's what they want to do. As long as it's not done for sexist reasons, have at it. I personally think it'd be great for everyone to participate both in a coven made up of only whatever gender (if any) they identify as and a coven where people of any and all genders are welcome. It would give a fuller perspective while also allowing for that time of bonding between specific identities.

[@zahedah80]

God is One without a partner. God is the creator who created everything and has no manager for the creations with Him and has no partner in Dominion. The sound mind does not accept and absolutely refutes that there are multiple Gods as you say.

[@AliciaNyblade]

@@zahedah80 The fact that you felt the need to proselytize, unasked for, simply because you came across a post of someone who holds different religious beliefs than you shows more about you than me. You might want to sit down and really ask yourself why encountering difference provokes such a response in you. Good luck on your journey, and may your god be with you on it.

[@draco4540]

it's so nice to listen to someone talk about religion that talks about a religion without using negative or positive comments about what they are talking about. i want to learn about something without hearing someone else's bias' and prejudices. i really appreciate it.

[@jodavis650]

Appalachia witch here...just wanted to tell you good job !

[@matthuck378]

I love the build your own holy book, and keep it to yourself aspect of Wicca. More religions need a "keep thy faith to thyself" teaching. Evangelizing is one of the main problems with organized religion, and it almost always leads to discrimination, suffering, etc.

[@SgtMcpancake]

not only that but proselytizing is literally ethnic cleansing, as most religions are really just extensions of their respective cultures and really are their collective stories, legends and histories. Proselytizing erases all of that, all of those stories, histories and legends it erases a core piece of that culture, which is intended as religions like Christianity and Islam were made to erase cultures, to turn people into Romans or Arabs.

[@SapphWolf]

So, a dualistic religion that worships two conflicting/complimentary forces is also dualistic in having conflicting/complimentary goals/desires. Seems appropriate.

[@LuisAldamiz]

Welcome to Western Taoism.

[@JonahPleatherbooth]

@@LuisAldamiz The Tao is non dualist

[@LuisAldamiz]

@@JonahPleatherbooth - The Yin-Yang is binary or dualist, and comes from the unfathomable Tao or Dao just as Gaia and Eros emanated from the primeval Chaos of Greek mythology (per Hesiod at least).

[@JonahPleatherbooth]

@@LuisAldamiz This is a misunderstanding Taoism in monist Do not suffer the eristic or aneristic illusion All is khaos

[@LuisAldamiz]

@@JonahPleatherbooth - Even if you explain yourself quite poorly, I believe I understand what you mean (I'm also Chaotist-Pantheist) BUT that's beyond the point. The point I make is that gender-binary "monotheism" (?) was apparently a widespread tradition that we find in many places: ancient Basque religion (Mari-Sugaar), deepest layer under Greek religion (Gaia-Eros), deepest layer of Hindu religion (Shakti-Shiva) and Taoism itself as well (Yin-Yang). This at the very least because IMO Hel-Jormungadir in the Norse substrate is also expression of the same motif.

[@Sonsajin23]

I need a 3 parter on Taoism/Daoism in my life, love your format!

[@holliegould3463]

as a former wiccan and still pagan witch: the magnitude of detail you give in just mentioning the maiden, mother, and crone made my heart absolutely sing

[@krysmunnings2373]

What do you practice now, out of curiosity?

[@yugioh5222]

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. 34 Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. 35 For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. - But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death

[@dono4617]

Jesus Christ of Nazareth, The Father, still loves you and looks forward to seeing you in heaven. He calls for you, daily.

[@holliegould3463]

@krysmunnings2373 i'm more ecclectic than i used to be but still follow most of the same core beliefs! i found that most of the wiccan practices i was exposed to and raised on were very closed off to embracing our divine masculine energy in hand with our divine feminine energy. i chose a path that embraces all of my energies, not just the ones related to genitalia 🥰

[@holliegould3463]

@@dono4617 sounds like a creep 😳

[@maninalift]

Your videos are so beautifully clearly communicated, well researched and most refreshingly of all even handed. Whether you are examining an extinct religion, one of the dominant Abrahamic religions, or Wicca, you manage to steer a perfect line between detachment and insight. Sound but not dry 😊 You don't pull your punches when reporting the facts but you don't cast judgement either. I forget about your channel awhile and its always a nice surprise when I come back.

[@friedkeenan]

Looks like George R.R. Martin was inspired by Wicca when making the religion of The Seven for A Song of Ice and Fire, almost like "What if Wicca were orthodox and like Christianity"

[@frantisekhajek6775]

Yes he even said that he took the idea from archetype, not Wicca specially. Generally The seven are more mess up version of the holy trinity. They are separated so much that the common folk see them as 7 different god, rather than an aspect of the same diety.

[@spinakker14]

The Faith of the Seven was inspired by Christianity, he even said so. However, I still see some connections to Wicca. Garth the Green is an ancient fertility god with horns, much like the horned lord in Wicca. And the House Gardener that descends from Garth seems like a reference to Gardener himself

[@MrCmon113]

@@frantisekhajek6775 The trinity isn't three aspects of one deity. That's considered a heresy by modern Christians.

[@TechBearSeattle]

@@MrCmon113 - In the terms used by the Ecumenical Councils, the Trinity is three hypostases of/in one ousia. The Greek terms have to be used because we no longer have these concepts in modern languages, but the idea of "three aspects of one deity" is on target. A hypostasis can also be compared to an aeon, the Gnostic idea (by way of Greek philosophy) of an "emanation" of God. Consider the idea that a single person can be all of a father, a son, an electrical engineer, a sports fisherman, and an airline passenger all at once while still being only one person.

[@Wanderer_of_Sol]

I'd love a follow up on this involving non-wiccan witchcraft. I've been a witch for almost 20 years, starting as a wiccan but then moving on to explore other beliefs, and I can say that there are A LOT of interesting beliefs, systems, and traditions out there that I think would makes really interesting videos.

[@vids595]

How do you define "witch"?

[@Wanderer_of_Sol]

@@vids595 Someone who practices any form of witchcraft, and goes by the title "Witch". Generally that's the definition you'll get from most witches. The reason it's impart so vague and at the same time so absolute, is because there are countless types of witchcraft, to the point that two witches doing the same thing still personalize their craft to the extent that they're often different enough to be considered different crafts. Even if you're part of a religion or tradition taught by someone else in your community, you still end up with something unique to a large and important point. But in the end, if you don't consider yourself a witch, or what you're doing witchcraft, than, you just aren't a witch.

[@HomeByTheSeas]

@@Wanderer_of_Sol I Sounds kinda like you're Larping, but hey, have fun lol.

[@Wanderer_of_Sol]

​@@HomeByTheSeas I don't know how I sound like I'm larping, as what I've said is generally accepted as how witchcraft is in most religious and secular contexts. Then again your name is alphabet soup and your account is 2 weeks old, so I don't think I should care too much :/

[@HomeByTheSeas]

​@@Wanderer_of_Sol My name is supposed to be "HomeByTheSea" not really sure yet why it's displayed in this way. My bad, I must have been tired for some reason I thought you had "As someone who" written rather than referring to others in general. If anything I only meant to have a bit of fun about the topic.

[@eliplayz22]

My first contact with Wicca was with my best friend in high school who was Wicca. She after explaining it for like five minutes, she invited me to research it. I did, and it definitely proved what you said that it's not monolithic. Heck, I even seriously considered becoming a Wiccan.

[@gospeltrue5056]

John 14:6 Jesus said unto him, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. John 3:18 “He that believeth in Him is not condemned; but He that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. Revelation 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers,and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” 1 Corinthians 6:18 Flee fornication. Every other sin which a man doeth is outside the body, but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. Matthew 12 45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.” Romans 8:6 21st Century King James Version 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace, Luke 12:20 21st Century King James Version 20 But God said unto him, ‘Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee. Then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?’ 1 Timothy 5:6 21st Century King James Version 6 But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. 1 Corinthians 6 9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God? Be not deceived: Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor the effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners shall inherit the Kingdom of God. 1 John 2:17 21st Century King James Version 17 And the world passeth away and the lust thereof, but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. Matthew 22:29 21st Century King James Version 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God. John 8:51 21st Century King James Version 51 Verily, verily I say unto you, if a man keep My saying, he shall never see death.” 2 John 9 21st Century King James Version 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ hath both the Father and the Son. Titus 1:14 21st Century King James Version 14 not giving heed to Jewish fables and commandments of men who turn from the truth. 2 Peter 3:18 21st Century King James Version 18 But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. Romans 12:2 21st Century King James Version 2 And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Hebrews 9:24 21st Century King James Version 24 For Christ has not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true, but into Heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us. Colossians 2:10 21st Century King James Version 10 And ye are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power, Deuteronomy 6 14 Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people who are round about you 2 Corinthians 11:14 21st Century King James Version 14 And no marvel, for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Jeremiah 7 18 The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other gods, that they may provoke Me to anger. 1 Corinthians 10 20 But I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils and not to God; and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils. 1 Timothy 2 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, Deuteronomy 8 19 And it shall be, if thou at all forget the Lord thy God and walk after other gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. Deuteronomy 18 10 There shall not be found among you any one who maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or who useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, 11 or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. Proverbs 7:27 21st Century King James Version 27 Her house is the way to hell, leading down to the chambers of death. 1 John 5 20 And we know that the Son of God is come and hath given us an understanding, that we may know Him that is true; and we are in Him that is true, even in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and Eternal Life. Acts 17 29 “For inasmuch, then, as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold or silver or stone, graven by art and of man’s devising. Proverbs 14 12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. 1 John 4 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh, is not of God; and such is the spirit of Antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come, and even now already it is in the world. 2 John 1 9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ hath both the Father and the Son. John 8 12 Then spoke Jesus again unto them, saying, “I am the Light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” Mark 8 35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for My sake and the Gospel’s, the same shall save it. John 8 51 Verily, verily I say unto you, if a man keep My saying, he shall never see death.” John 17 3 And this is life eternal: that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent. 1 Timothy 2 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, Acts 4 12 Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” James 1 21 Therefore lay apart all filthiness and the superfluity of wickedness, and receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save your souls. John 11 25 Jesus said unto her, “I am the resurrection and the Life. He that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; 26 and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die. Believest thou this?” John 6 68 Then Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life, Psalm 119 30 I have chosen the way of truth; Thy judgments have I laid before me. Psalm 119 11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. Romans 12 2 And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. 1 Corinthians 2 5 that your faith should not stand on the wisdom of man, but on the power of God. 1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil walketh about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. 1 John 2 16 For all that is in the world - the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life - is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away and the lust thereof, but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. James 1 21 Therefore lay apart all filthiness and the superfluity of wickedness, and receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save your souls. 1 Corinthians 15 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 1 Thessalonians 5 9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ John 3 18 “He that believeth in Him is not condemned; but He that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3 36 He that believeth in the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.” Luke 6:5 21st Century King James Version 5 And He said unto them, “The Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath.” Matthew 22 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God. John 5:29 21st Century King James Version 29 and shall come forth - they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. John 8 12 Then spoke Jesus again unto them, saying, “I am the Light of the world. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:32 21st Century King James Version 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 6 40 And this is the will of Him that sent Me: that every one who seeth the Son and believeth in Him may have everlasting life, and I will raise him up at the Last Day.” Mark 13:13 21st Century King James Version 13 And ye shall be hated by all men for My name’s sake; but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. Revelation 14:12 21st Century King James Version 12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. John 8 36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. Mark 13 31 Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away.

[@marquisejohnson2770]

I myself am a Eclectic Wiccan and still learning but so far I strongly prefer crystals and runes and meditation I honor the Lord and Lady as equal opposites while my personal Gods are Horus and Hecate I found so much peace in myself and still continue to grow

[@wendelynmusic]

Though I no longer practice since joining a native community in the NW, I still have respect for my friends in the Wiccan and Druid communities. Its heartening since as always you treat each religious community you discuss with the utmost respect. Thank you.

[@exposeevil5492]

New Satanic religion? All kabbalistic religions are from Genesis 11:8. Babylonian at the core

[@vegemarkr4582]

@@exposeevil5492 did you even watch the video?

[@ReligionForBreakfast]

Join my online seminar, "Magic in the Ancient World!" Tickets here: www.speakeasy.com/event/magic-ancient-3

[@HighLighterlines]

Oh I would recommend you research the hermetic order of the golden dawn which is the origen of the modern version of the tarot

[@garytucker8696]

Hwicce was a tribal kingdom in Anglo-Saxon England,established 577 birth of Wicca.

[@garytucker8696]

Probably inherited from The Dobunni one of the Iron Age tribes

[@DBCisco]

Having been involved with Wiccans, there is no single religion. It is now a conglomeration of independent "followers" and is more of a fad than a religion.

[@internetchild6066]

Can you do a video on witchcraft outside of Wicca?

[@TheLALYROLDAN]

I really liked this explanation. It's academically construed...the best I've found so far

[@alexroselle]

As a former* practitioner of Wicca, I liked this video a lot, and appreciate you spending time on one of the smaller & newer religious movements. Something I'd add to the covens vs. solitary discussion is that for a lot of Wiccans and pagans, they may have an individual practice and don't belong to a coven, but in many communities there are open/public rituals for the eight major Sabbats that have attendance figures ranging from a large potluck to hundreds or even thousands of people. These are typically largest for Beltane and Samhain (so much so that some pagans joke about "B&S pagans" in a similar way to how some Christians complain about "C&E Christians"), one of the larger ongoing examples being the annual Spiral Dance led by Starhawk in San Francisco every Samhain. Also, something that may relate to difficulties estimating numbers of people in the US or UK is that while many use "Pagan" as an umbrella term, not all do. I'm thinking of Heathens and others who derive their spirituality from Norse and Germanic sources, who dislike "Pagan" for historical and other reasons. I'd love for you to do a video on their beliefs and practices. Thanks for putting this out there! * While I stopped practicing, it wasn't because of any rejection of or conversion away from Wicca so much as personal reasons and my own agnostic and skeptical outlook about a lot of spiritualist and magic(k)al practices. I still find a great affinity in many varieties of pagan/heathen/nature-based spirituality, even if I struggle to find a good label for my own.

[@videosefilmes22]

Just found your channel earlier this week and I absolutely love it. Keep up the quality work, Andrew

[@Mrphilipjcook]

I love these videos. It's impressive how you can get so much detail into such short videos. I know that these are broad strokes overviews, but i think they're a fantastic jumping off point to go and learn more. 😁

[@TheRealSpellstar]

As a wiccan, I love this video I appreciate the emphasis on how varied the religion can be, and this presents a lot about the religion in clear, concise ways although this does kind of miss the point of wicca, which is that it is more a religion about the self, rather than explaining the outer universe

[@dominadors4795]

I thought it was great too. I am a pagan but not a wiccan. Many of my beliefs overlap with wicca though. Being a pagan is very freeing. ♡♡

[@DocRockBaby]

@@dominadors4795 As a Pagan (Pre-Celtic tradition) I found this video very interesting

[@Welcome2TheInternet]

I thought Wicca was just a club for young girls and menopausal women who need a place/ideology to belong to.

[@RTDT_777]

thank you the anthropology takes time i been busy

[@citrus4419]

Jesus loves you!

[@bkane645]

So informative, thanks Dr. Henry!

[@cladivostoc]

I absolutely love the content on this channel. I'm both learning and expanding on my views here. 👍

[@eps3154]

I truly appreciate the tone of this video: referring viewers to source materials and yielding to the opinions of the specialists. Love the hard work 💕

[@victoriamieetcruz6267]

Am a kitchen witch, I can help you to acquire spiritual powers and how to cast spells and invoke spirits with the four pillars of the universe

[@xaviercrow102]

Respectfully informative and well researched. I'm glad I wandered into this video. I've been into paganism for a few years now and over the last couple I've been leaning toward learning Wiccan traditions. Never skeptical but always curious I know for a fact now that I will delve a bit deeper into the practice. Thanks for doing the leg work for the curious

[@DocRockBaby]

As a Pagan (Pre-Celtic tradition) I`m just curious about which tradition of Paganism you were looking into? European Celtic, Celtic Britain, or what is it about the Wiccan tradition? Thank you..

[@linapilchard1384]

I was recommended this video (likely because I'm Wiccan myself), and not having seen your channel before I wasn't sure what to expect. I really appreciate this video. Other than glossing over a few minor details, your video covers the basics extremely well. You've earned a subscriber for sure. Thank you for being willing to teach religious study in a fair and positive way :)

[@erickwasi9381]

Please I need to become a WICCA member. L need ur help

[@shanetutwiler]

Thanks for the great summary! Super work, as always.

[@steampunkpixie2643]

Thanks for posting this was a way more informative video than some I have seen. I also impressed you pronounced Samhain correctly.

[@bradgillette9253]

Excellent, again. Well done. Thanks for pronouncing Samhain correctly. Cheers.

[@JesseSierke]

Great, unbiased summary. I have to admit having some doubt that this channel could approach this subject without bias, and am very happy to have been wrong in my own assumptions.

[@OddBunsen]

One method I’ve seen used by esoteric practitioners and others that allows traditionalism and eclecticism is that the traditional practices are taught first, with the more eclectic or modified versions taught after. Then the student can choose what they want to practice while teaching what their teacher taught them.

[@lemort1642]

Hi very nice episode once again. Will you do an episode on Voodoo or 'Vaudou' or 'Vaudouism'? I understand that it might have to be a very long episode runing from west africa to caribean, brasil, guyanne and event the U.S. Practices and beliefs But I'd really like to watch that!

[@francomuscellini1744]

That could be a whole series. Starting with african religions and their influence in the americas. I'd watch the heck out of that.

[@Bixnood69]

Voodoo is garbage.

[@ussinussinongawd516]

@@Bixnood69 hah really?

[@stanleydouge2803]

@@ussinussinongawd516 no not really he’s probably a racist who gets triggered by anything black or African

[@paulhorn7855]

I just found this channel. I'm loving it so far. If you haven't, you should totally do a video on Asatru or Norse Paganism. Also know as the Heathen faith.

[@summerwoods6807]

This was cool. Thank you for sharing! I learned a ton and your video dispelled a bunch of myths and stereotypes I picked up along the way. Thanks again

[@ethancobbe-hoggan4451]

Fantastic video! I was wondering if it was possible for you to do a video on traditional Arabian pre-Islamic religions? Love the channel, keep up the great work!

[@UFOhunter4711]

You should also check out Let’s talk about Religion, seems like something he would do

[@AnarchicEowyn]

Thank you for this video. I've been getting interested in studying other religions and spiritual practices for some time. Wicca's always confused me and this helped a bit. So thank you :)

[@c.r.blankenship9040]

I have to say, learning about various religions really is something that should be taught in school. It's a super important subject, and so diverse and interesting that you could form years' worth of curricula around it. Kids could do book reports on religious texts, or be assigned to write a paper about a religion that is not their own.

[@nopenopeXOXO]

I am so glad you did this. You were upfront and honest, without being condescending or short-sighted (nothing new for you, that's why we love you..🤗). I was raised Roman Catholic, but my family is Cuban (non-santero), so we have been exposed to that version of pagan worship (Afro-Euro-Christian mix). . Having been raised religious, but extremely aware of 'other' practices, I understood Wicca was not some continuous, unbroken system of worship. But, rather an amalgamation of 'this & that'. Not invalid, just not what was being talked about publicly. . Thank you for shining light on the 'movement'. . There are plenty of lone witches who carry on a form of ancestor worship, mixed with 19th century spiritualism/mysticism, mixed with whatever else they 'acquired' along the way. . Trying to 'commercialize' Wicca is a sure fire way to ruin it; thank you for keeping the "community" honest...👍🏼

[@vrananikola]

It’s nice to be properly represented Thank u and blessings! 🖤🙌🏼🖤

[@LoganMay87]

I was part of a coven when I was younger but left after getting fed up with the petty in fighting of middle aged women. especially over leadership. It stared to feel too much like a Christian church and not enough like the earth based spirituality that I practise today. Side note: do you have it in your to tackle the freemasons and their likely tie to the knights Templar? I've was a religious studies major who had a professor that truly believed they were one and the same and struggled for years to find the link between them.

[@LoganMay87]

He used to infiltrate cults in his younger days and always regretted not being able to infiltrate the remaining knights Templar although he had a great story about how he came very close on a crazy fishing expedition with some masons who he thought had knowledge of the Templar order as it exists today.

[@chaseharrison2064]

That sounds gnarly

[@ChristopherWeiss]

The connection is most likely inspirational and not actual.

[@LoganMay87]

@@ChristopherWeiss From what he used to say he was certain that after the knights Templar were removed and discredited from Europe, they used their wealth to begin again in Scandinavia. With the church firmly entrenched against the Templar organization they changed to become the Freemasons. He felt there was evidence to be found truly linking this transition in Avignon, and or Jerusalem. Of course the Masons would have this as well.

[@ChristopherWeiss]

@@LoganMay87 Well... if he was certain then the mythology must be true!

[@walterbray81]

Willing to subscribe to this dudes church, he seems to have a way explaining everything to make cohesive sense & quickly while he lectures & learning even more in the process, & thank for the videos

[@Redfox0928]

Love how heavy metal is a religion in the census.

[@Liesl_Cigarboxguitar]

Well done for pronouncing Samhain correctly dude 🌛🌝🌜

[@oldbrasso808]

Shame about mis-pronouncing Crowley!

[@LailokenScathach]

As a general over view this was well done, thanks for doing the video.

[@SFsc616171]

You did well, friend! I salute you. Many Blessings in all your scholarly work!

[@WhiteArcenio]

Your videos are so good and very helpful and informative 👍👍👍

[@theunorthodox828]

Thanks for video, very well made! Please do one with Rosicrucianism and the Golden Dawn.

[@robinettebroadhead7677]

This was so informative, thank you! :D

[@petertyson4022]

I read bits and pieces of the Wicca believes. My cousin was a wicca. Went to her wicca burial when she past away. Very interesting and a very good send off. Knowledge is key. 👍😊

[@NuNugirl]

When one of us was sick, my Grandmother cut an apple in half, put “ something “ in side of it and buried it in the backyard. She also made a special soup. The last times she gave me the soup, was when I was in High School, after I had my wisdom teeth removed and had Mono. I love ❤️ my Grandma so much. She learned these things from her Cousins in Transylvania, who she visited from Hungary. She was the only one of her Brothers and Sisters who they trusted to teach the “ old ways”. Her family called her the “ White Witch” and bought her a witch on a broomstick made out of white gold for her birthday. During the 1918 flue, everyone on the street in Brooklyn got sick and many died, but no one got sick at her house. Neighbors were getting suspicious. Grandma was born in 1887. She also read the cards, but they were traditional playing cards not made up Tarot cards. She also told me, after the Doctor told her if she had one more miscarriage she could die, she used a herbal mixture as birth control. If Grandma was born in a much earlier time, she would have been burned at the stake. What she was doing was NOT her religion.

[@marcblur9055]

Nicely done. I was surprised you didn't mention Austin Osman Spare (eventually regarded as the father of chaos magic) who was reportedly an influence on Gardner, even though Spare was a couple of years younger.

[@nicodarsh]

Ooo! I'd love to see a video on Druidic practices!

[@ClockShaft]

This is pretty cool and informational, thank you!

[@wartygourd]

this video was so chalk full information!!! thank you so much!!

[@kathryngeeslin9509]

Thank you! I have been looking forward to this for a long time. Beautifully done.

[@Alverant]

There's an exception to everything. *insert mongol-tage here*

[@1984potionlover]

I'm not sure how, or even why, but I bet Walpole had something to do with it as well ;) ;)

[@jaxonblack8021]

My first thought was: “Wicca, like the basket?” Rather than wicker and that’s where my head is at today.

[@Broockle]

What a wonderfully mature discussion. ♥

[@joshusdog7677]

I used to be a practicing Wiccan. I'm an Atheist now, but some of my fondest religious memories are when I was part of a Wiccan/Pagan youth group.

[@ems4884]

Your deconversion story is one I would really like to hear. The deconversion narratives from Christianity and Islam as predictable as they are widespread. The more dogmatic the Christian or Islamic sect, the more traumatic the deconversion tends to be. (Mormonism is the same.) But deconverting from Wicca ... What was it exactly that flipped the switch? Was it "Wait, these incantations sound stupid and these spells aren't doing anything!". Was it maturing out of a set of Wiccan friends as you grew up? Was it realizing that the emotional benefits you credited to Wicca were actually entirely the product of your own mental self-care? Itching to know. _________ Also ... Deconversion would be an interesting topic for a serious religious studies channel like this one. I imagine the psychology of religion has a lot to offer on the subject.

[@DivoGo]

You Sir are freakin AWESOME!!!!✌🏾👍🏾❤️

[@StarlitSeafoam]

...well, that's unfortunate. I missed your class on magic in the Ancient World by a full YEAR. One of my favorite topics.

[@HelloNewMoon]

I have always been drawn to this religion. Never practiced but I have taken some of their practices and traditions and used them in my multi-faithful life

[@Andrea-rw9tf]

Some of the kindest most accepting people that I have known in my life are Wiccan/Pagan.

[@thiawolf9054]

We try ! 😊 NAMESTE🙏

[@isaiah9501]

Even as a Catholic I find Wiccans very Interesting, witchcraft is somewhat a common thing in my country which works side by side in Religion, well at least in my country. I'm not sure if I'm making the right assumptions about Witches but they're really a helpful bunch of folks, especially in the provinces. I find it fascinating that the medicine they create from leaves and other stuff works, and some of them respect the religious beliefs of people around them.

[@thiawolf9054]

@@isaiah9501 i had full intentions of being a nun/sister in the Catholic faith. When i found wicca/witch i hybrid the two seamlessly . At least seamlessly for me. I have always done the best i could to respect others religious beliefs because i believe non of us has the perfect key. We are all on a journey of discovery and enlightenment. None knowing for sure the answers to the "great mystery" of after death. For many wiccans , the belief "first do no harm" (witch is not possible in this realm) teaches us not to judge harshly. NAMASTE🙏

[@melissapinol1750]

I have been a Wiccan priestess for 30+ years and yes, Wiccans are the kindess most honest people I have met. I feel safe among them. Its interesting to contemplate what causes such a consistent difference in behavior.

[@Noone-rt6pw]

That makes all the difference in the world. As myself, having experienced evil from cultural, social ideologic acceptable, why would I have conflict with others who are good hearted?

[@linseyspolidoro5122]

I’m not Wiccan but I am pagan and do practice witchcraft so this was an interesting video. I would love to hear your thoughts on some of the folk magic traditions in the US and abroad. As they are often intertwined with the major religion in the area I find the combination super interesting especially when the major religion is often opposed in theory to the practice. An example that illustrates what I mean would be something like Appalachian folk magic traditions. Anyway again great work!

[@60sspider-man29]

@Vanilla Gorilla how's your relationship with your mother?

[@asherfelldown3144]

@Vanilla Gorilla what an odd question.

[@brianhuffman2070]

May God be with you 🙏

[@woosanki]

​@@brianhuffman2070which one

[@brianhuffman2070]

@@woosanki the only one

[@kyokonightstorm5844]

As a partially broom closeted Wiccan (it's a safety thing in these parts) I had a realization. Wicca as a religion, in all its incarnations, is all about change and accepting that it is inevitable. All things change. Day & night, the changing of the seasons, even the water cycle. To live is to change, and Wicca helps us see the beauty of that.

[@harrietharlow9929]

Great video! I like your respect for the faiths you discuss. I've noticed this aso from many Pagans and Wiccans. My MIL is a witch and also pretty tolerant of other faiths and spiritual paths. I do understand why some Pagans and Wiccans have hostility towards Christianity (not without justification), but the respect of many has allowed me to look more deeply into Wicca and Paganism.