Wiccans

Wiccans are adherents of Wicca, a modern pagan religious movement that emphasizes reverence for nature, the sacredness of the feminine and masculine divine, and a flexible, eclectic approach to belief. Wicca originated in Britain in the mid-20th century and was popularized there by Gerald Gardner, with important contributions from Doreen Valiente; later traditions such as Gardnerian and Alexandrian helped shape the movement. Many Wiccans practice either within covens or as solitary practitioners.

Beliefs among Wiccans vary, but many are polytheistic or duotheistic, venerating a Goddess and a God who are seen as aspects of nature or as distinct deities. The Wiccan Rede, a guiding ethical principle, is commonly cited: “an it harm none, do what you will,” though interpretations differ. Sacredness is often linked to the cycles of nature, and many Wiccans celebrate the Wheel of the Year through eight Sabbats (Samhain, Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lughnasadh, Mabon) and esbats tied to lunar phases.

Practice typically includes circle casting, purification, invocations, and the use of ritual tools such as an athame, wand, chalice, pentacle, and cauldron. Rites may be held in covens or conducted by solitary practitioners, and many Wiccans maintain a personal Book of Shadows containing rituals, spells, and teachings.

Contemporary Wicca is a recognized, though minority, religion in several countries. It encompasses diverse traditions and eclectic paths, reflecting a wide spectrum of beliefs about magic, ethics, and the nature of the divine, and practices can vary significantly among individuals and groups.