Religious Glossary - common terms used related to Religion
Wicca - A neo-pagan reconstruction of witchcraft.
Most Wiccans call themselves witches, but not all witches
are necessarily Wiccan. (SpiritOnline).
Wicca is a modern Western interpretation of witchcraft, and
a Wiccan is one who practices Wicca. Wiccans often call themselves
witches. Wicca is one belief system within what is called
Neo-Paganism. Wicca is generally described as a Nature Religion.
Witchcraft belief. (TheGreenFuse)
The terms "Wicca" and "Wiccan" came into common usage in
the late 1940's, after Gerald Gardner wrote a series of books
on Wicca. Perhaps because of its concern for the environment,
its close ties with nature, and its emphasis on sexual equality,
Wicca experienced a rapid increase in popularity which continues
today. Barnes and Noble estimates a US "Pagan Buying Audience"
of 10 million; Other recent estimates of the number of US
Wiccans are of the order of 1 to 3 million.(Religious
Tolerance)
Wicca represents an ancient religion of love for life and
nature. Wicca is easily one of the most irrepressible religions
in the world because it stimulates the intellect, promotes
a simple, practical way of life and, most importantly, is
emotionally satisfying. Brought into the public eye in the
1950's by Gerald Gardner after the repeal of British anti-witchcraft
laws, Wicca is now a strong, healthy and popular religion
and movement.
Wicca is a nature-oriented (not nature-worshipping), initiatory,
pagan mystery religion based on the traditions and beliefs
of tribal Europe, with significant influence from Western
magical traditions and a ritual structure based on the writings
and practices of Gerald Gardner and the covens of the New
Forest region.
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