The Practice of Wicca

Research Paper # 108500

Religion and Theology > Other
Women Studies > Spirituality

A discussion on Women and Wicca: An alternative neo-pagan religion and its pro-feminine ideology.

1,610 words () | 7 sources | MLA | 2003 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper discusses the religion of "Wicca" and notes that women who have sought a more egalitarian path, found that answer in Wicca. The paper explains the rationale behind this neo -pagan religion, what it is based on, its symbols and its rituals. The paper comments that Wiccans follow a lunar year, practice "magic", but they view it as more of a cosmic energy that exists within all of us. The paper comments that since the central focus of Wicca is the Goddess fertility, and her consort a horned god, it has created a great deal of feminist appeal. The paper concludes that Wiccans encourage all who are interested in their religion to research as much information as possible and to make an informed decision.

Outline:
What is Wicca?
Women and Wicca

From the Paper:

"Wicca does not have a formal "book" of its teachings like a Bible or a Q'uran. This is partly due to it being a nature based religion whose roots are akin to a faith that was based on an oral tradition. Wiccans are encouraged to keep a "Book of Shadows", which may consist of a personal chronicle with incantations, Wiccan teachings, personal reflections, etc. Wicca does not have a canon of laws, but practioners are required to celebrate the eight Pagan holidays based on the Lunar Calendar (October 31 to October 30). The holidays are Samhain (Oct.31), Imbolc (Feb. 2), Spring Equinox (March 21), Beltane (April 30), Summer Solstice (June 21), Lughnasadh (July 31), Autumn Equinox (Sept. 21), and Yule Lore (Dec. 21), (The Celtic Connection). The New Moon and Full Moon celebrations are of significance importance as well, since the moon is representative of the Goddess. The different feasts are sometimes associated with a pantheon of Celtic and Druidic deities apart from the Goddess and God. Each of these festivals has its own rituals and observances, and some even coincide with Western religious practices. "

Sample of Sources Used:

Eldred, Sheila Mulrooney. "Women of Faith". New Moon. V.5, N.5.
Lewis, James R., Ed. Magical Religion and Modern Witchcraft. State University of NY Press: 2001.
Pinchen, Kylie-Jane. "Wicca". The Dawn. 11/1999, N.33, p.10.
Warwick, Lynda L. "Feminist Wicca: Paths to Empowerment". Women and Therapy. 3/1995, V.16; N. 2/3, p. 121.
"Witchcraft and Wicca". http://www.religioustolerance.org