Glossary of Wiccan Words
Guest Author - Fiona Blackwolf
There are so many things associated with Wicca that can have a different meaning in the mundane world. Often folks can become confused about what they mean. Following is a list of some common terms that might be heard in association with Wicca along with definitions to help explain them.
Altar - A space tools and other symbols are placed during ritual. Used as a point of focus for the participants. Altars can be set up for one-time use during ritual or as permanent focal points. For example an altar to prosperity can be left up indefinitely and helps one to continually focus on the goal whenever he/she sees the altar.
Athame - (AH-tha-may or ah-THA-may) A ceremonial knife with a dual edged blade used to direct energy. Traditionally black handled though other styles are often used. The athame should never be used to draw blood and is often a very personal tool used only by the owner. Symbolizes either the element of Air or Fire depending on the tradition one practices.
Besom - (BEH-som) A broom; most frequently used to sweep a circle clear of unwanted energy. Usually stored Bristles pointed up to prevent damage.
Boline - (BOW-leen) A single edged blade, often with a white handle. This blade is used for ritual cutting such as harvesting of herbs or carving into candles. The boline may also be sickle shaped.
Book of Shadows - Abbreviated BoS. A collection of rituals, information, research, spells, and other information that is meaningful to the owner. A record of the owner's magical journey and practice. For this reason it is often kept private. Some groups or covens may keep a special Book of Shadows which holds all of the information specific to that group. This type of Book is often had copied by members of the group as they progress on their path.
Censer - A pot, dish, or other object that incense can be burned in.
Chalice - A cup in which wine, water, or other beverages may be held. A ritual tool that can symbolize the Water element, etc.
Circle - 1. The sacred space in which a ritual is held. 2. A group of individuals who practice ritual together. More casual than a coven.
Correspondence - An idea or item that reminds one of something else, particularly of an element. For example: Feathers are an air correspondence.
Coven - (CUH-ven) A group of individuals who regularly meet together for ritual purposes. This is a very close group like a family. Covens are often very selective about membership because of the close relationship. Coven members generally take vows to each other and the coven relationship is a very serious commitment.
Deosil - (Jeh-shul) The direction of sun wise; the direction the sun takes through the sky. In the northern hemisphere this is clockwise. Deosil motion is used to bring things into the circle or working.
Elements - The 4 natural elements Earth, Air, Fire and Water. May sometimes include a 5th element called Spirit. In modern Wicca there are thought to be 5 elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit. Each has specific qualities and correspondences. Also called Directions or Quarters.
Esbat - Generally a celebration of the Full Moon, but can also celebrate the New Moon and Quarters, as well.
Pentacle - 1.A five pointed star within a circle thought to represent the five elements and their connection to each other. 2. A surface with a 5 pointed star on it used in ritual to place items upon for charging with energy. A symbol of the element Earth.
Ritual - A ceremony which focuses on honoring deity, performing a spell, or celebrating a special time. As the word Ritual implies, these ceremonies are often repeated on a regular basis. For example a Yule ritual may be repeated every year at the same time.
Sabbat - A day with specific meaning in the wheel of the year. There are generally 8 Sabbats, roughly a month and a half apart representing the turning of the seasons and the cycle of the sun.
Spell - A process used to focus one's will toward a goal.
Tradition - A specific way of practicing the Craft. There are many traditions in Wicca. However, it is common for solitary practitioners as well as covened wiccans to practice an "eclectic" tradition which is made up of practices from various paths.
Wand - a piece of stone, wood or metal, generally no longer than the tip of the middle finger to the elbow used to direct energy in circle. A symbol of the element Air or Fire depending on the tradition one practices.
Waning - The aspect of the cycle of the moon when the moon becomes smaller. The waning moon is a good time to work towards removing obstacles or habits that hold you back.
Waxing - The aspect of the cycle of the moon when the moon becomes more full. The waxing moon is a good time to work towards bringing something into one's life.
Widdershins - Not sun wise. In the Northern Hemisphere this is counterclockwise. Widdershins motion is used to remove or release from the circle or working.
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