dianic

Dianic refers to a feminist-oriented strand of modern Paganism that centers devotion to the Goddess, often focusing on the Roman goddess Diana, and emphasizes women’s rites and leadership within ritual communities. The term is most closely associated with Dianic Witchcraft, a movement that emerged in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s as part of the broader second-wave feminist and neopagan currents. Zsuzsanna Budapest is a key early figure, and her 1970 The Holy Book of Women's Mysteries helped articulate Dianic ritual practice and theology, though Dianic groups have since diversified in beliefs and methods.

Beliefs and practices: Core ideas include the Goddess as the central divine presence, the elevation of women's rites, motherhood, and menstruation as sacred. Rites of passage, lunar cycles, and circle-based rituals are common. Many groups conduct female-centered rituals, with the God either de-emphasized, absent, or invoked in a more limited role; tools such as candles and ritual blades may appear in ceremonies. Some Dianic groups identify as Wicca or witchcraft, while others regard Dianic Witchcraft as a distinct tradition with its own lineages and practices. There is substantial variation in ritual structure, ethics, and inclusivity across groups.

Contemporary context and controversies: Dianic practice has been controversial within wider Pagan communities because of debates over gender exclusivity and inclusivity. Modern groups vary in policy regarding men’s participation and in how they address intersectionality, race, and sexuality. As with many modern Pagan paths, the term “Dianic” encompasses a spectrum of beliefs rather than a single doctrine.