The Wiccan Rede Shows How to Respect the Earth, Others, and Oneself
Most followers of the different religions in the world follow written rules and vast amounts of written texts in their holy books and scriptures.
Not so the Witch.
Many Wiccans and Pagans have had their ancient traditions, rites, rituals and rules passed down merely by word of mouth, because of the need for secrecy.
No written evidence of the practice of the ancient ways was dared, because of the persecution and executions metered out at the Witch Hunts known as the "Burning Times".
Today however, with generally more tolerance of alternative lifestyles and religious worship, and the abolition of antiquated laws, Witches can come forward and share with each other the delight of their religion.
The Wiccan Rede is a joyous short piece of text that succinctly and poetically outlines the laws or rules that Witches should live by.
Just twenty-six lines in total, with each line containing a rhymed couplet, the Wiccan Rede is a guideline to living a healthy, happy and fulfilling life without harming others.
Outlining how to respect nature, the earth, oneself and others, the full Wiccan Rede is easy to understand and needs little knowledge of the complexities of ritual and rites.
Simply interpreted, the Wiccan Rede explains that we should strive to live by the Rede with an attitude of love and trust.
It advises to treat others, as you'd wish to be treated yourself, and to give respect not only to people but also to the environment and all of nature.
It urges a gentle approach to life, allowing you to really listen to others rather than talk constantly.
It warns of being aware of your actions and what effects and consequences they have on others just as ripples caused by a single small stone falling into water spread far and wide.
And do not envy others who appear to have more than you have yourself, give thanks for what you do have.
In regard to the company you keep, the Wiccan Rede reminds us that people will judge you as foolish if you allow yourself to be surrounded by fools and their foolish ways.
It goes on to advise you to be a good friend to those you hold dear, and take pleasure in their company, as they will in yours.
And in affairs of the heart the Wiccan Rede has very wise words indeed.
It urges you to be true, loyal and faithful in love, but be nobody's fool.
If your lover is unfaithful, disloyal or harms you, then you must leave them.
With other advice concerning the Elements, Sabbats (seasonal festivals), Esbats (full moons) and the ways to Spell cast, worship and observe religious rituals, the Wiccan Rede ends with these words; "Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfil: An It Harme None, Do As Ye Will.
" These eight little words neatly sum it all up - if it harms no one and nothing, including yourself, feel free to do as you want.
Not so the Witch.
Many Wiccans and Pagans have had their ancient traditions, rites, rituals and rules passed down merely by word of mouth, because of the need for secrecy.
No written evidence of the practice of the ancient ways was dared, because of the persecution and executions metered out at the Witch Hunts known as the "Burning Times".
Today however, with generally more tolerance of alternative lifestyles and religious worship, and the abolition of antiquated laws, Witches can come forward and share with each other the delight of their religion.
The Wiccan Rede is a joyous short piece of text that succinctly and poetically outlines the laws or rules that Witches should live by.
Just twenty-six lines in total, with each line containing a rhymed couplet, the Wiccan Rede is a guideline to living a healthy, happy and fulfilling life without harming others.
Outlining how to respect nature, the earth, oneself and others, the full Wiccan Rede is easy to understand and needs little knowledge of the complexities of ritual and rites.
Simply interpreted, the Wiccan Rede explains that we should strive to live by the Rede with an attitude of love and trust.
It advises to treat others, as you'd wish to be treated yourself, and to give respect not only to people but also to the environment and all of nature.
It urges a gentle approach to life, allowing you to really listen to others rather than talk constantly.
It warns of being aware of your actions and what effects and consequences they have on others just as ripples caused by a single small stone falling into water spread far and wide.
And do not envy others who appear to have more than you have yourself, give thanks for what you do have.
In regard to the company you keep, the Wiccan Rede reminds us that people will judge you as foolish if you allow yourself to be surrounded by fools and their foolish ways.
It goes on to advise you to be a good friend to those you hold dear, and take pleasure in their company, as they will in yours.
And in affairs of the heart the Wiccan Rede has very wise words indeed.
It urges you to be true, loyal and faithful in love, but be nobody's fool.
If your lover is unfaithful, disloyal or harms you, then you must leave them.
With other advice concerning the Elements, Sabbats (seasonal festivals), Esbats (full moons) and the ways to Spell cast, worship and observe religious rituals, the Wiccan Rede ends with these words; "Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfil: An It Harme None, Do As Ye Will.
" These eight little words neatly sum it all up - if it harms no one and nothing, including yourself, feel free to do as you want.