Few writers in the neopagan community are as controversial as Silver Ravenwolf. She remains a popular writer, particularly, I suspect, among teens. But she also brings out a great amount of frustration and anger in many other pagans who find her works shallow, dishonest, bigoted, and outright wrong.
Can’t we simply agree to disagree? Yes, to a degree. However, that doesn’t stop us from having an opinion and voicing it, just as our objections in no way stop her from publishing books and making public appearances. With Ravenwolf, it’s not merely a difference of opinion or personal belief. It’s about facts, which can be disproved, and moral issues, which can quickly color a community when a vocal member puts them forth.
All quotes, unless otherwise noted, come from Silver Ravenwolf, To Ride a Silver Broomstick: New Generation Witchcraft (Llewellyn Publications, 1993), which remains one of her most popular books.
Depictions of Christianity and Other Religions
There’s very little reason to mention Christianity in a book about Wicca, unless you’re using it as comparison; the fact is readers are much more familiar with Christianity than Wicca, so such mentions can be helpful. However, there is no reason whatsoever to use a book about one religion to slam another one. It’s outright unprofessional, not to mention immature.
Her bigotry is particularly ironic since the “Craft Code of Honor” she used to display on her website included “Respect the religion of others.” So she’s both a bigot and a hypocrite.
If you intend to grovel before a God form, please stop here and throw this book away…The common act of sniveling at their feet is unacceptable. If you truly want that type of relationship with “higher-ups”, there are plenty of well-cultured religions that will gladly open their arms to you. (page 43)
While she doesn’t actually name Christianity as the offender here, I don’t think I’m out of line inferring that’s what she meant, although it’s possible she’s slamming multiple religions. And her use of the phrase “common act” indicates she thinks this sort of behavior is widespread. In short, most religions are unhealthy, but what Ravenwolf offers is a far better alternative.
I believe one of the biggest problems Witches face today is the influx of Christianity and its “turn the other cheek” melodrama. More and more individuals are leaving the Christian Kingdom in favor of ours, but they bring with them brains that have been hammered for years with another philosophy. (Page 270)
I’m not quite sure she understands the phrase “turn the other cheek,” which means not retaliating against those who act poorly toward you. Is she wishing Wiccans/witches (she uses the terms interchangeably) would be more spiteful? Regardless, she specifically paints Christianity a a major danger, and that danger is the possibility of Wiccans/witches (she uses the terms interchangeably) actually understanding things outside of Wicca.
By the way, rejection of all ideas outside of your own teachings is a marking of a cult.
And “the Christian Kingdom”? Where the heck is that? She makes it sounds like people are defecting. Of course most Wiccans were former Christians since Christianity is the majority religion. That’s simple statistics.
There are two kinds of [divinatory] readings, those for magickal people and those for “once-borns” (a term Bried Foxsong, publisher of Sacred Hart, uses). Once-borns belong to other religions that do not believe in reincarnation or magick. (Page 152)
A once-born will get “hooked” before a magickal person, because they are totally unfamiliar with the intricacies of magick and divination. (Page 158)
Just in case you non-Christians thought you would be spared Ravenwolf’s diatribe, don’t fear, she hasn’t forgotten you. Apparently everyone who disagrees with her on certain subjects are so incredibly simple they must be given special tarot readings (or other divining method) because they just can’t handle a full-blown one. The arrogance is absolutely astounding.
Let’s not leave Satanists out of this either:
Satanic Witch: One cannot be a satanic Witch because Witches do not believe in satan. (Page 13)
Disregarding her painful lack of rudimentary capitalization skills, this sentence is typical “whitelighting”: painting the neopagan world in a cheerful, shallow and unsullied light without any acknowledgement of complexity. When the hell were we awarded copyright on the word “witch”? Some Satanists also identify as witches. Simple fact.
Also, as a note: many Satanists don’t believe in Satan either, and none of them believe in the Christian version of Satan.
More Persecuted than Thou
There is a particularly offensive story on pages 49-50 describing how Christians came with their one male God and forced the European medieval pagans through war to worship Him.
While in Persia, they came across a nasty God that was used in that country. And, wonder of wonders, he resembled the old God of the people in Europe. He was dark, half animal, with horns and a tail.
Bingo! They thought and rubbed their hands excitedly together. Now we know how to eradicate the old religion and bring in the new.
When they got back to Europe, they told the people that the old God was really Satan because he had horns and a tail. (Page 49)
I particularly like how the Christians “rubbed their hands excitedly together” like the bad guy in old movies just after he ties the heroine to the train tracks. Sorry, there is no one “old God” of the pagans. This is classic Murrayism, disproved 20 years before the publication of this book.
I have no idea which Persian god she might be referencing, and I suspect neither does she. Nor do I understand why these evil Christians need Persian mythology to turn the god of the supposed Old Religion of Europe into a monster. Can’t you simply make him into a monster?
She also presumes that Satan has always been depicted with hooves, horns and tail, and that’s simply not the case. Satan is never described in the Bible, and images of him throughout history vary immensely.
She finishes the section by saying: “I wrote this story to sound rather trite on purpose…It is a good story, though, for children, and an interesting one to tell around the fireplace.” (Page 50) Good story for children? What sort of values are you preaching here?
Ravenwolf is a very public sufferer of the More Persecuted than Thou Syndrome and is dedicated to infecting every reader she can. Discussing her storybook version of the Charge of the Goddess, she says “it depicts the Goddess and God in the manner in which we believe in them, not in the negative light in which our general society has often put them.” (Page xiii)
And what light, exactly, is that, Ms. Ravenwolf? I honestly have no idea. When someone wishes to put us down, their comments usually revolve around Wicca and Wiccans, not the God and Goddess, and it’s highly inventive to describe even this behavior as coming from “our general society.” While there will always be outspoken Fundamentalists, society in general really doesn’t give a rat’s ass about us, so long as we’re not being obnoxious, and that’s the case of any group of people, not just Wiccans.
When you poke the bear with a rhetorical stick, the bear strikes back.
And, of course, no More Persecuted than Thou Syndrome would be complete without mention of the Burning Times:
Burning Times: You will hear this often. It is in reference to a historical time from about 1000 CE through the 17th century when it is said that over nine million people were tortured and burned by church and public officials on the assumption that they were the Christian version of Witches…Historians indicated that the majority of people tortured and murdered were women and children. (Page 19)
While she doesn’t flat out say it was “we” who were persecuted, why would she include this in her book if it had nothing to do with us? And try 40,000 to 100,000, not over nine million. As far as the women bit goes, that is historical fact (although the reasons were more complicated than that they were women), I suspect she’s exaggerating the place of children, and what the hell does this have to do with the topic at hand, unless the topic really is insulting Christianity and depicting Wiccans as persecuted stoics?
Dealing with Outsiders
In response to “What do Witches do?” or “Tell me all about Witches,” be very careful if you are not familiar with the questioner. Instead, get them to talk about themselves by using the conversation techniques you have learned. They may never get an answer to their question on the first meeting, but they will walk away thinking you are a great person anyway because you listened to them.
How do you steer them away from the topic of Witchcraft if you find yourself in a time or place that is not suitable for such a discussion? This is an easy one; just ask them exactly what they wish to know. Most often their questions are vague and you can give them an equally vague answer and ask them something about themselves. (Page 278-279)
First comes the presumption that non-Pagans are stupid enough to fall for this, followed by a pat on the back for deliberately misleading people.
And why exactly are you being asked these questions in the first place? If you are not familiar enough with the questioner to be talking about such things, why did you let this person know you were a Witch to begin with?
And speaking of telling the world about your witchiness…
I began by telling my father [that I was a witch], then my children and my two best friends; I went on to others that had known me for several years, and progressed to those who did not know me well at all. I told my new employer before I even accepted the job. (Page 277)
There is zero reason to tell a prospective employer what your religion is – by law he can’t even ask. There’s only two reasons you would behave like this – you’re looking for attention, or you’re looking for trouble, knowing that eventually you’ll come across someone who will make an issue of it, at which point you scream persecution at the top of your lungs.
As someone who works with magick, sooner or later you’re going to be found out, anyway. Let’s face it. You will probably carry yourself differently (confidence does that to a person). You may become more articulate, more sensitive, more ethical; happier, richer, healthier. You will succeed in your dreams where others spend their lives wishing instead. Eventually, people will wonder what you are doing right! People may also fear you. Not because you have threatened them, but because you obviously are not enjoying the same tragedies they are. (Page 278)
What sort of cult propaganda is this? News flash: non-magical people succeed at their dreams too. And anyone who thinks that Wicca or any other religion or organization will protect them from the tragedies of the world needs a serious and immediate wake-up call. Wicca doesn’t make you anything. You are what you make of yourself, and you can do that equally well as a Wiccan, Christian, atheist, or anything else.
I personally don’t recommend telling your friends or distant family members with the first year of your study of the Craft that you have taken on a new reality. (Page 32)
There goes the cult talk again. New reality? What reality were you living in before? And don’t you just love the paranoia? They won’t understand you, so you must hide from them until your powers have grown strong enough to start avoiding tragedies and other perks that will prove your new reality to others.
Directed specifically at teens (which is ethically problematic itself) is the following advice about explaining Wicca to parents:
Then we’ve got the double sneak-attack – working only with angels. Angels, angels everywhere and Mom or Dad won’t even care. Sure, because everyone likes angels. (Silver Ravenwolf, Teen Witch, (Llewellyn Publications) page 232.)
I don’t know what they call this approach in Ravenwolf’s world, but where I come from, this is called lying. Angels have nothing to do with Wicca. Oh, and another clue: if “sneak-attack” is an apt description for a plan to deal with parents, the ethics of such a plan should be seriously questioned.
Word Games
And finally there is the issue of the simple lack of credible information in her writing, particularly in her choice of words.
Another name for a solitary Witch is a “Natural Witch”. (page 14)
Where she got this idea is beyond me. The concept of “Natural Witches” describes one predisposed toward Witchcraft from birth. Most neopagans don’t even believe in such things. A solitary witch is simply one that practices (wait for it)…in solitary, as opposed to practicing within a coven.
The Wiccan Witch:…I personally like the word “Witch” very much. To me it means mystery, healing…The word “Wiccan” does not give me those feelings. It projects a different set of associations-weaving, church, New Earth, wicker furniture (don’t ask me why) and the movie The Wicker Man (which although I despised, I fully understand). It also means “front”, a way to bring the public into accepting our belief system for what it actually is, not what their preconceived ideas of a word dictates to them. (Page 14-15)
Wicca doesn’t mean “front”, and I can’t imagine why she would say that. She may think of it as a front, but that’s an opinion, not a meaning. People who get published should have a basic grasp on the English vocabulary. Why she associates the word Wicca with church is likewise beyond my comprehension. And equating words that sound similar (Wicca and wicker) is something small children do.
I imagine she likes the word “Witch” exactly because of those “preconceived ideas” i.e. historical definitions of the word people have about it. That way she can self-righteously protest that she’s being persecuted by the once-borns.
Wicca — It is thought that this term was originally coined by Selena Fox of the Circle Sanctuary in an effort to describe the modern religion of WitchCraft (as begun by Gerald Gardner in England in the 1950’s). There is NO difference between Wicca and WitchCraft. Anyone who tells you there is a difference is experimenting in the theory of Occum’s Razor. (http://www.silverravenwolf.com/Magickal%20Glossary.htm (no longer online)
Has she never read Gardner’s The Meaning of Witchcraft? Or his “Old Laws”? Gardner himself introduced us to the term “Wica”. The second C was added later (admittedly, I don’t know by whom), presumably to reflect the Anglo-Saxon word wicca which is the root for the modern word “witch”. And, incidentally, the name is Occam, not Occum.
…did you know that Mary Magdalene was not a temple prostitute? That the word “Magdelene” is a title of leadership, not the woman’s last name? And that Mary Magdelene of Bible fame ran a temple to the Goddess, designed to educate the rich girls of Jerusalem? True, true…and true. AND, the reason the men hated her was because she believe in the Goddess, and they wanted to get rid of the Goddess. (Silver Ravenwolf, Teen Witch, (Llewellyn Publications) page 233.)
No, no, and no. Let’s break down the problems hers:
- There has never in history been a worshiped entity known simply as the Goddess
- Further down the page she refers readers to Barbara Walker’s Women’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets for information. Yet Walker herself describes her repeatedly as Mary the Whore and cites “Magdelene” to mean merely “she of the temple-tower”. (Walker, Barbara G. The Women’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, (HarperCollins Publishers, 1983), page 614.)
- Magdalene means woman of Magdala. (source)
- Mary Magdalene was a Jew. As such, she wouldn’t be associated with a pagan temple.
- Lots of people know Mary Magdalene was not a prostitute. The confusion comes from two Biblical stories running into each other: one about Mary and one about the prostitute Jesus saves from stoning.
Worse, this passage is a part of the section on telling your parents that you’re Wiccan. Clearly, the statement has nothing to do with Wicca or why one should be dedicated to it. Instead, it’s another of Ravenwolf’s pot-shots at Christianity.
Scientific Views
Ravenwolf’s bizarre world-view is not, however, confined to the religious realms:
For too many years women have been told that they must regard their cycle with an unkind eye, calling it a curse when actually it is a boon. Society has so dictated this to them that many feel weak, tired and disoriented because they are supposed to. (Page 19)
Actually, we tend to feel weak, tired, and disoriented because of pain and blood loss. I’m pretty sure that even if I had been raised by wolves my cycle would still be a pain in the ass.
Before performing all spells one should consult their divinatory vehicle not only to examine the outcome of your work, but to glean any extra information you should be aware of…For example, you wouldn’t want to cast a spell for money and have your spouse or parents drop dead. (Page 178)
For those who believe in divination, it reveals possibilities, not concrete outcomes. Anyone who structures their life choices on divinations is a fool. Second, people do not drop over dead because you didn’t correctly chant over a green candle (which is her standard money making spell).
In other news, we can’t cast fireballs either.
And a final quote of just true bizarreness:
It is my personal opinion that most people are attracted to the Craft not by its religious content, but by its scientific and technological allure. (Page 27)
If you are attracted to a religion for reasons other than its religious content, you are a poser. It’s like saying you’re a Christian because you like communion wine.
My only criticism is a common one. Revise and edit what you write over and over again. Otherwise, one looks like a fool and less credible, especially when blasting someone else for the same things. Find someone to read your work before posting a final copy on the Internet. I would list your mistakes, however, I feel it’s good practice for you… that’s if you decide to take my advice.
I’m not sure what you mean by me writing the same things over and over things. I have not touched this document in many years, and when I recreated it on this new site, I did do some revising and editing. But the central point remains the same. If you disagree with that, that is certainly your right.
And, no, I do not have someone to edit every page I write on the internet. This is my project, not someone else’s It’s not a profession. And if you’re objecting to a spelling or grammar issue, while obviously I prefer not to have them, I certainly have no idea what you mean by me blasting other people for them. There’s no page here about bad spelling.
And if you’re just going to poke at unnamed points and call it “advice,” I’d suggest avoiding passive aggression.
You know, his or her Comment was not aggressive at all. He was only giving you the advice to reread your post and maybe look at some spelling mistakes that might have happened. If you want your content to be taken seriously, what I think you do, otherwise you wouldn’t have spent your time writing this long post, then you should show, that you care for these things. And yes, bad spelling does invalidate content, because it signals that you don’t care about your content enough.
Just to clear things up, I think what you have written here is good, and I didn’t see a lot of mistakes, but english is not my native language.
I got interested in Wicca because of Silver Raven Wolf, do you know, how many fluffy bunnies actually got interested in the religion enough, to inform themselves more thoroughly? But still, what you say here, it absolutely right. But, as a european, I can also tell you, that the way she writes, especially about the stuff that concerns herself and her intimate religious believes and how she had to tell everyone in her life, that is such an american thing to do.
No offense, I have so many american friends and of course it is just a few that do that, but this very specific kind of conversation and expressing yourself, is something that a european will always associate with americans.
What I despise about silver raven wolf, is that she does take the creativity away. Seeing yourself as a wiccan, does not mean you have to act a certain way, or dance naked under the moonlight. You are to find your own way of expressing your spirituality.
That is, what is missing in all of her books: spirituality.
The admin’s reply didn’t seem particularly hostile to Nokomis Tigereye, and the mild amount of irritation in her post seems justified given the invalidating tone of Tigereye’s firs comment. It reads very much like “If you want to have an opinion on something, you better check and recheck your work to make sure it’s up to MY standards, otherwise your opinion is invalid.”
And yeah the writing of the article is a little clunky, especially at the beginning, but aside from just a few instances of repeating a word twice or three times (which is mostly why it feels clunky), the writing is otherwise fine, especially given this is an expose, not an academic, for-profit review.
Oh, it was aggressive. When you call someone a fool, it is aggressive. Notwithstanding, this is an enlightening article about what is out there for beginners to consult.
Making every single life choice based upon what the runes, the cards, the tea leaves, or your palms says IS foolish, though.
Silver Ravenwolf is of about the same generation as I am…(she is about 8 years younger then I am)I think that too many here are new…or at least newer. I guess I understand what Silver is saying. Her work is Spiritual. You can not teach spirituality, it glows. As a 66 year old who has been involved in my own practices and teaching since the 70’s I find this tattering about Silver demeaning.
You also have to remember that it is thanks to people like Silver that you can be in the open..we could not be. Until you have been spit on, or beaten in your own home.. you have no right to speak about someone that took it on the chin.. so you did not have to. You do not agree with her books..great do not buy them, but one things that Wicca should never lose is respect for the ancestors. Respect her as an Elder..or is that also passe with the young?
We all have different traditions..and remember when you buy a book it is that author’s trad that you are reading about. Be at peace and find knowledge in all you see…
Blessed be..
“You also have to remember that it is thanks to people like Silver that you can be in the open..we could not be.”
You’re talking about this author like she’s the Martin Luther King of Neopagans. She’s not. Neopagans are not some oppressed minority. “Silver Ravenwolf” is factually wrong and absolutely self-righteous about it to boot.
I, and no one else, owe an “elder” any respect. Respect is not something that is demanded and given, it’s earned. She’s not my “elder” nor my “ancestor”.
It’s bullshit writing like hers and attitude like yours that put me off Neopaganism and Wicca for so long. Trying to dismiss genuine problems in things by handwaving and a bunch of hippie “play nice” crap like in the rest of these comments.
I Absolutely agree with you, and I am very disappointed with those that seem to disregard and/or disrespect what those who have cleared the path for those who followed.
It is EXACTLY people like Silver, Gerald Gardner, the Farrars, Mother Clutterbuck, and Ray Buckland – just to mention a few – who the rest of us and especially the younger generation have to thank for being able to stand in the open, and declare who and what we are.
We enjoy Constitutional protection BECAUSE of these people.
We shouldn’t forget that.
Terra Gazelle – very well said.
Voice of reason, thank you. I quite enjoy Silver RavenWolf’s work. I may not agree with everything in her books completely, but I don’t go around making disparaging and aggressive blogs about it either like the person who wrote this blog. I do respect my elders and take from them what I can learn and appreciate those who walked the path before me. Thank you for your post. It really made me feel better that someone took a stand for what is true and right.
Just because she is an elder does not mean she deserves respect. Especially since she is intentionally dishonest and disrespectful of other peoples’ religions and beliefs. Her using disinformation does more harm to the community than good.
Lol saying stuff like “until you’ve experienced “blank” you can’t know what it is like so you’re opinion is invalid” is so stupid. So freaking stupid. I’m sorry. But your suffering does not invalidate my experiences. If you truly think that then maybe Silver’s books are a good choice for you!
I totally agree with you too Terra. I love how someone who doesn’t even have the courage to put their own name on their article is going around yelling about being a bigot. When that’s exactly what they are being. It’s fact that the Christians and the Catholics took over area’s making everyone conform to there religion and the inquisition burned witches at the stake. It was called the Crusades.
They took over and stole from any religion that they could to assimilate them. So calling them out for past wrongs that even now when there’s proof and science to back up that most of that crap had nothing to do with actual witches but greed and hatred and jealousy of neighbors plus many other facts that disprove many Christian doctrines and still “ the church won’t change their cannon or acknowledge what they did including removing any books of the Bible that referred to a woman’s power and included adding mysticism to Jesus at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD They lied about their religion oh low and behold they changed it. Repeatedly
Wicca today is based on what was we believe celebrations of old Agrarian societies there is a basis for that and the worship of a God and a Goddess regardless of the names used. With proof based on artifacts and historical findings. Who ever actually started us on this new religious movement regardless of the actual person there were many involved. We should be grateful to everyone who opened the pathway for us. So that we have the freedom s we do today.Just as there is no one way to be a Christian there is no one way to be a Wiccan in this day and in this age we have many choices. Opinions are like assholes everyone has one.
I just happened to like the writing of Silver RavenWolf (that’s her name by the way you’re the ignorant one) l don’t have to agree with every single word she says to be a decent person and not write such an explicit article of hate and bashing that is still flying around the internet 5 years later. Once you spew your hate into the world you can’t take it back!!
Um, wow.
Catholics ARE Christians.
The Crusades had nothing to do with witches, but with territorial control of the Holy Land.
Most major religions move into an area and enforce belief–Islam, Hinduism, etc. Even the pagan Romans did it, though with a subtler touch.
Your grasp of Christian doctrine (I am an atheist) and theology is on par with your grasp of grammar and punctuation.
What a wonderful post, I couldnt agree more
If you reread your article you would know that the ‘blast’ in question was probably, “Disregarding her painful lack of rudimentary capitalization skills.” It is fairly easy to look over ones work and see if a criticism is valid than to make a passive aggressive statement about how the writer in question should not be passive aggressive.
I enjoyed reading your work because it gave me things to think about, but found it funny that you open with the statement that WE (possibly claiming to represent neopagans) are all outraged about her and then continue on to express your personal problems with her writing based on your interpretation of the text. This is the very thing you accuse her of being guilty of in her books. The only difference I see is that you wrote each of your opinions leading with “I” statements and she wrote her book with a leading statement that says “These are my beliefs, opinions, and interpretations,” and then let what she believed to be truths follow.
Remember: Every ‘how to’ book written on a concept less concrete than “How to assemble your new desk,” should be taken in the context that it is from the authors perspective and is only one option of how to go about doing things, just as every review is written with that authors opinions in mind.
Hopefully her readers get the things that they personally will benefit from out of her texts, and continue to go on and read and learn and expand their horizons so that they can constantly grow and bend their own beliefs and experiences as they see fit. That’s why most are reading this
I love this post. I always reference it when talking about why Ravenwolf is horrible as a writer since your article is far more concise than I am.
Is the information about Wicca at least accurate from her? Like the general beliefs? Also, are the spells in her books good? I have like three books by Ravenwolf and am just now hearing about all this. (Haven’t gotten that far into them)
her information about Wicca is, at best, mediocre. The problem is anything that is correct is mixed in with a bunch of wrong stuff. If you’re looking to learn such info, you can’t tell the good from the bad.
She constantly equates Wicca to witchcraft, applying ideas from one to the other.
Spells aren’t good or bad on their own, and she’s one of the authors that encourages that idea. Magic is not about saying the right words or using the right color candle. It’s about will, and will is powered by your own understanding of whatever it is you use. magic is also not a shortcut. Big expectations require big effort. That’s true about everything in life, but Ravenwolf sees magic as a cheat.
Thanks. What are a few good authors to look into then?
I got started on Scott Cunningham’s “Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner”. I’ve also heard good things about Raymond Buckland.
Scott Cunningham, Starhawk, Margot Adler, Patricia Telesco, Raymond Buckland, Marian Green… their works were extremely helpful to me when I first started out 13 years ago. And of course, the internet is an incredible resource, but remember to look at everything you read with a critical eye.
Hattie’s list is pretty good, but for more traditional (and very thoughtful) approaches I would recommend the works of Doreen Valiente. Valiente practiced the Craft for half a century, and wrote with great knowledge and insight.
Other good authors: Judy Harrow, Amber K, Isaac Bonewits.
This was a very disturbing article. Where to begin?
First, as “an old witch”, I often recommend “Teen Witch” by Silver Ravenwolf to ADULTS! The reason is that she repeatedly warns against doing spells early in your learning process, &, against using spells to control others. She emphasizes the Wiccan Law of Return, & explains that this kind of spell-casting can backfire on you. I.M.O., there are far too many books out there that promote spell-casting, with no regard to teaching the ethics/consequences of doing so.
Re:”Angels have nothing to do with Wicca” WOW! You state that satanists (non capitalization intentional!) are o.k.?
(1) For those of us born with the natural abilities to see & hear spirits/Divinities, it is clear that there are Angels around us. They are just as clear a other guides such as spirit animals, Gods, & Goddesses. You want honesty in The Craft. Honesty means you honestly tell people what you see, when doing a reading, when doing healing work, & when having a conversation with someone. That is the responsibility that comes with being born with these gifts!
(2) Our (well, @ least my) Pagan ancestors had no satan in their belief system. One of the greatest hurdles faced by those who first stood up for Wicca in modern times, was convincing people that we weren’t satanists! That satan was not even a part of the pantheon of Gods & Goddesses we worshipped! It is so harmful to Wicca that many modern Pagans insist on including satanism under that umbrella, when those who came before you suffered to prove this wasn’t so!
To be WiccanPagan/Heathan, is to follow the old Gods & Goddesses. To honor the Earth & celebrate her cycles. Somehow, some have decided that this means we welcome all beliefs into our practice. That we welcome every misfit who wants to use their claim to being Pagan as an excuse for bad behavior! That’s Not Wicca! That’s not Asatru! We have standards & The Law to follow!
The Law isn’t “Do as you will”! The Law, in modern English is: “IF IT HARMS NONE; Do As You Will”! BIG DIFFERENCE! Too many forget or ignore the first part which calls for caring for & protecting ALL life, people, plants, animals, from being harmed by our actions!
This is a higher standard than most people live by! However, if you call yourself Wiccan, it is what you must strive to live by!
RE: Respecting our elders. YES! They paved the way! Yes, we owe them respect! NOTE: The Farrars were the first to publish Craft info. Janet & Stewart were looked down on by many in the Craft, who wanted the teachings kept secret! So, they paid double in those early days! Frowned on & often scorned by both the general public & the Wiccan/Pagan community.
Another Elder of note, who has not been mentioned here, is Z Bhudapest. She did so much for Dianic, Femminist Wicca. She actually went to jail for doing tarot readings, in order to stand up for her/our right, to practice our Craft!
RE: “Natural Witch” My experience over the years has been that those who object to this term/idea, are those born with no natural inclination nor abilities. I once had someone tell me that she didn’t believe this. Then she told me she had been trying for FIVE YEARS to learn how to be psychic, & that she believed she would eventually succeed.I didn’t argue with her, nor put her down. But, you either can or can’t ! This doesn’t mean you can’t be Wiccan or Pagan! It means you will never be a Witch! Here is a point we agree on! Being Wiccan doesn’t make you a Witch! Sure wish that everyone got that! Many years ago, I knew a Wiccan couple who were part of our community & loved Wicca. She made it very clear that she was not a Witch. They believed in the old ways & raised their child in them. They celebrated the Sabats & worshiped the Old Gods & Goddesses. Except for communal workings, they did no magic. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t carry a charm or accept healing. They were great assets to our community!
Fo me, I was born with the gifts & natural inclination to be a Witch. I didn’t know that until I opened up to Wicca! Why? BECAUSE I DIDN’T KNOW THAT EVERYONE COULDN’T DO WHAT I DO!
It runs in my family on both sides. So, I grew up assuming this was normal. Mom would talk about when someone had passed & they appeared to a loved one, like that was just part of life. “Premonitions” were just part of life.
There are things you can learn to do which are also known in some books as “wish-craft”. Setting your intention, lighting a candle each night, stating the intent. This is part of the law of attraction. Many people who aren’t Witches, have success with this!
For Katheryn & others looking for a good beginning book; Scott Cunninghams “Wicca For The Solitary Practitioner”, & “The Witches Bible” by Janet & Stewart Farrar, are both good.
Since Stewatrt’s death, Janet Farrar & Gavin Bone have co-authored books on Progessive Magic. You can check out their website.
BB to All
First off, the author says that satanists can also be witches, not that they necessarily are or aren’t. It’s also stated that satanists don’t believe in satan, so I’m not quite sure what your problem is there.
Secondly, Z Budapest is a TERF–a trans exclusionary radical feminist. She thinks that “woman”=”person with a womb and monthly cycle”…you know, that sounds like a conservative Republican. It’s always weird to me when “feminists” reduce women to baby-making machines.
Any time anybody says “you MUST respect the elders” I roll my eyes. Budapest, the aformentioned transphobe; Gavin & Yvonne Frost, who wrote child molestation into their initiation ritual…no, respect must be earned, not demanded. That way lies cults and kool-aid.
And if Gardner published “Witchcraft Today” in 1954, and “The Meaning of Witchcraft” in 1959, how were (as you claim) the Farrar’s “the first to publish Craft info”? Yeah, Janet & Stewart started publishing the behind-the-scenes stuff in 1980, giving them a 2 year lead on Scott Cunningham, but it’s not like they were the only ones writing (not that I’m not giving props to the Farrar’s & Gavin Bone, they rock and the Craft wouldn’t be where it is without any of them).
As far as “natural witch” goes, people need to just stop watching “The Craft” so much. It’s fun, but cheesus crust….I believe anybody *can* theoretically do magic, just like anyone *can* theoretically play basketball. Some people have a natural inclination, some people can work at it, and some people are gonna struggle and may never have any real skill. It makes no sense for there to be an either/or proposition, since nature doesn’t work on a binary. This isn’t Harry Potter.
Regardless of what ckose-minded people like Liz think, Z Budapest isn’t a “TERF”, she simply differentiates between gender and sex, like any other thinking person with a feminist consciousness.
1. Satanism in itself is not a bad thing. It emphasizes respect, honesty, and good-will. The idea of Satanism being an evil religion is based purely on the modern Christian idea of Satan.
2. While it is true that Wicca and witchcraft are often (wrongly) associated with Satanism, and that previous generations had to work particularly hard to be accepted, they do not inherently deserve our respect. Much of the widespread acceptance of today is part of the more tolerant minds of the younger generations, such as millennials and gen z.
3. Just as you don’t have to be a witch to be wiccan, you don’t have to be wiccan to be a witch. There are satanists who use magic and identify as witches, there are christians and jews who use magic and identify as witches, etc.
5. Ravenwolf has ‘studied’ and ‘claimed’ the right to practice many forms of magick that she has no business in. From Hoodoo (a distinct form of practice which involves a lot of folk lore and old African culture, which is often appropriated and misused by white witches) to Voodoo (a CLOSED African religion, meaning that you have to be initiated by a priest) to Pow-Wows (Native American Ceremonies, also frequently appropriated and misrepresented)
It isn’t disrespectful to criticize her work. It is, however, disrespectful to ignore the flaws in her teachings and imply that she is always right. It is disrespectful to Native Americans, it is disrespectful to Africans, it is disrespectful to literally anyone that doesn’t accept her beliefs as Perfect™️
Personally, I found Ly de Ange’ Witchcraft: Theory and Practice wonderful. I refer to it often. It was the first book to actually make sense to me and it didn’t come across as dogmatic or fluffy.
Ugh. I fixed that autocorrect twice!
Angeles.
I remember when I was first learning. Ravenwolf was mentioned to me as an author to read. I got one of her books (don’t really remember which one). I didn’t really like it. I felt uncomfortable reading it, if that makes any sense.
Totally. Sometimes we can’t put into words why we feel ill at ease with something.
Silver Ravenwolf is sadly lacking in traditional basics of Craft lore and
methods that are essential in building a magical personae that the Gods recognize and is the basis of the spiritual path and the evolution of the seeker. She either does not know them which I suspect, or she has deemed them not necessary for learning this very esoteric path and making progress in developing one magical skills. Her books are shallow at best and misleading at worst and are a prime example of the modern authors who seek to profit from the genre never mind crippling many who seek true information . I have met her two times and did not feel the resonance of a true commited practitioner of of the Craft. She just feels wrong somehow., maybe that feeling comes because she chose to lead the main ritual at a well known pagan fest in jeans, a white shirt with rolled up sleeves, a baseball hat on backwards and a whistle. Talk about a lack of respect for the ritual and those seeking a well thoughtout circle for worship. But After all the Craft cannot truly be learned from a book even if authors like her tell you so. She spends too much time on smoke and mirrors,telling everyoneelse they are wrong and does not even follow the traditional guidelines on who should teach who. She obviously does not care about traditional need for parental permission, age guidelines or the fact that no teacher would expose students to information far beyond their capacity to understand leading to the pitfalls and misunderstandings inherant in studying such esoteric knowledge . She compounds the problem by producing a teen witch kit.,obviously for profit thereby placing herself in the same catagory as a lawbreaking snake oil salesman. We do have laws you know. You can only shortcut the knowledge so far until you end up functioning in the material plane and no longer have access to the higher planes . What you put out comes back to you three times over Silver good luck.
I’ve now read this article a few times and wanted to say thanks. I’ve been a Wiccan for about ten years and I’m always learning something new everyday. Your website helps me because the last thing i want to do is be misguided, and I have pretty good instincts, but it’s nice to know that according to your information, I was on the right path.
So American Indians and Wiccans have a similar problem: people who trivialize and misrepresent the teachings for fame and money. I’m not a Wiccan, so it’s helpful to have someone within your tradition to discusssuch matters.
While Silver Ravenwolf isn’t without her faults, I do find it a bit unfair how people single her out sometimes. Especially when they are judging her by how we understand things and use words in today’s pagan community. To Ride a Silver Broom stick is 20 years old after all. A lot of stuff has changed in two decades.
The two points that bug me most are…
1. That she uses Wicca and Witchcraft interchangeably. Lots and lots of the older pagan authors did this all the time. I quite remember Starhawk referring to the religion in her book Spiral Dance as the “Religion of Witchcraft,” repeatedly. Gerald Gardner didn’t call his religion Wicca. It was the Witch Cult and it’s followers were either the Wica or just witches. I just recently listened to a pod cast where Raymond Buckland was a guest. During the show he mentioned that during his day the religion was just called Witchcraft. And he did mention that after a point there was a push to start calling it Wicca in hopes that it would be more palatable to the public. Trashing SilverWolf for using language the same way the founders of Wicca did is hardly fair. Once upon a time there wasn’t a different between Wicca and Witchcraft in the pagan community.
2. Silver tell teens to lie to there parents about Wicca. My question is what else should teens do? I guess the best advice would be to tell teenagers to wait till they’re out of their parents homes to convert to Wicca, but lets be real, many don’t. Is it realistic to expect teens to be open to their parents about everything? Teens either lie or neglect to tell their parents many things (the fact they are having sex, sexual orientation, doubts in faith, their taste in music, for example). In some households this is a matter of self preservation. Not every teenager has a home full of open, understanding parents who love them unconditionally. In some household coming out as Gay, Trans, sexually active/pregnant, mentally ill, Pagan or even Atheist can get a teen kicked out, and/or leave them vulnerable to abuse.
The Broom Closet is a big issue even for adults. This really isn’t a black and white thing where being honest is always the right choice and lying is always the wrong choice. Wither or not to come out has to be done on an individual to individual basis. For some folks coming out will never be a realistic option no matter their age.
While I will not go on and on about Silver Ravenwolf, (to be honest, I’ve never read her works or heard of her until about a year ago, so I guess I have no real right to throw cauldrons full of bad words around).
What I hear of her, she is branding a form of what I think is cheapened Wicca as true Wicca. And she also spreads misinformation, which is something I dislike immensely.
Your points, number one, was Wicca v Witchcraft. While before the name Wicca was coined and that became the standard name for people who follow the duotheistic orthopraxy, it is true the followers called it Witchcraft. However, I think the term Witchcraft is not an interchangeable word with Wicca. Today Wicca means without a doubt the duotheistic orthopraxy that this website gives information about. Whereas Witchcraft indicates a broader umbrella that Wicca can fall under. I have many friends who practise Cunning, another form of Witchcraft, but it is certainly not Wicca.
I understand the whole thing about lying though, it is a necessary ill we have to face from time to time. I was fortunate enough to have been brought up in a Wiccan household and given a choice if I wanted to follow the religion, but I still feared telling my Mum I’m gay. So I can definitely understand, but the kid who studies Wicca, or any path that can fall under the umbrella of witchcraft, in a home that is not so open, I’m sure they’ll find their own ways to avoid telling their family, there is no need to openly encourage lying. Just like how all my gay friends in High School didn’t need to tell me to lie to my parents, it was instinct to keep something quiet.
Silver Raven Wolf actually suggested many different approaches to the issue of informing a parent or parents that you are interesting in practicing Wicca aka witchcraft. It is not fair to say that she told youths to lie to their parents. It is up to the individual as to how they would like to inform their parents of their interests. Many authors express their own perspectives and anyone reading something written by a particular person should take it with a grain of salt, as they are writing from their point of view. I have not had any major issues with her writings but I know that I will not solely being used books authored by her as a resource for practicing.
I Personally LOVE this article…
When I first started my path into the Wiccan Culture I turned to Silver Ravenwolf’s to ride a silver broomstick and before getting half way through I was almost disgusted.. the sheer amount of judgement and and ridicule of other people is not what I was searching for.. Luckily I found a local magick shop filled with beautiful souls who showed me a much brighter path that i continue to follow and learn more about each day
Ray Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft was the first book I bought about witchcraft over 20 years ago (note title uses the word “Witchcraft,” not Wicca); Starhawk’s The Spiral Dance 10th anniversary edition was second; Silver Ravenwolf’s To Ride a Silver Broomstick third. As a beginner I found the first two books especially helpful. Silver Ravenwolf’s TRASB didn’t provide a structured enough approach for me. I needed more concrete examples to learn from. With time and practice, however, I appreciated its guidelines to creating one’s own rituals. I also found helpful the suggested reading of other authors, many of whom are well-regarded. Although I disliked the occasional negativity, I took from Ravenwolf’s book what was useful to me and continued to read as many and varied books on the subjects of witchcraft, Wicca, paganism, divination, etc., as I could. Some were helpful, others lacking, but all contributed in some way to my exploration. That said, there are authors other than Ravenwolf that I’d recommend to newcomers especially.
As for teens or anyone else hiding their interest in alternatives to mainstream religion, it’s sadly true that many young people don’t have much love, care, and understanding. Ideally we could all be free to express ourselves without fear of harm, but that’s not the way things are.
*BEWARE OF DOGma: a belief or set of beliefs that is accepted by the members of a group without being questioned or doubted.
We ought to be grateful for Ravenwolf’s reading of history–it is patently bunk. Most egregious example is Magdalene, which simply means ‘one from the town of Magdala,’ which had a famous tower on the Sea of Galilee, and comes from the Hebrew word for tower, “Migdal.” How can anyone take her seriously? Yeah, and vicious too. I though Cassie’s article was well presented.
We all have the rite here for free speach and religion.Sliver’s books are her opinions and are there to simply guide people if needed.After all its just a book you ether embrace it ,or put it down.Just like the the chirstian bible I think its all BS ,but that’s just me.L find Silver Ravenwolf’s books helpfull; and I am an old world norse pagan.I am a Mogur of my clan and blessed eight of my clansmen.However it all about opinion,Silver keep it up,Beatus et exesto.
I’m no Latin scholar but I’m sorry, i can’t find “Beatus et exesto” anywhere on the web. Closest thing would be “Happy and full,” like a pig in ****, God knows why they say that, pigs are clean, etc. etc. Maybe it’s Norse, as in “Er du full?” (“Are you drunk?”)
Word for word, it’s blessed and extra. More simply it likely means double blessing or somesuch. As an observation, with no criticism intended, the poster is a true eclectic. Self described old world Norse pagan, quoting Latin with a shamanic tile found no where else but in a fictional book describing a poorly understood epoch in human prehistory. The title is for a religious leader from another species who most likely lived in the Danube river valley region.
Well raven,sorry you missed the point of my comment,but “deatus et exesto” is kind of a slang for bless it be. Peace.
Do you mean “I am blessed” or “be blessed (only if you are a man)”?
As a practicing Wiccan of 30 years, I would love to hear Cassie on your training and expertise regarding this matter. You seem to equate yourself as something of an expert in this matter and that Silver Ravenwolf’s teaching are lacking credibility and substance. So let’s have it.
I would love to talk to you personally, because a great deal of the information you are presenting is wrong and clearly biased. You do anyone a disservice when they read this article. If you would permit, I’ll address every single one of your misrepresentations for everyone to see. Do I have your permission?
Having been around the pagan community for so long, I can tell you this. Each wiccan group has slightly different variations to their teachings. It completely depends upon who you learned from and the circumstances surrounding the instruction.
Plus religious scholars and devotees of the craft have been in debate over terms, significance of items, and our history as well. There are common threads, but if you go to the different groups that exist, you will find their versions of what they believe is the truth. You are misleading people here if you actually try to imply there is only one correct way through this spiritual path.
Silver has her interpretation of the craft, and her numerous books on the subject reflect that for over 20 years. I would certainly like to review your books, texts, and information regarding the subject.
I would tell people to keep an open mind, read other material from other sources and work with what resonates with you. Not every author will click with everyone. Obviously, she does not work for you, and that is fine, you are certainly entitled to your opinion.
i purchased a copy of Silver Ravenwolf’s book “To Ride a Silver Broomstick” about 3yrs ago and I found it rather condescending and her tone seemed fixated as like a mother to a child. I kept the book for a week and returned it to the Barnes and Noble where I purchased it. I did not buy another book of hers until about a year ago, which was “Solitary Witch”. I still have this book and found it far more informative and she seemed to have toned down on the criticism towards Christianity but she seems to write all her books as if her only audience are ages 15-17. While there may be some teen witches out there, there are far more who are adults, I personally feel that such a tone is rather odd to assume all her readers are teenagers. If Silver could/would rewrite her books in the tone of speaking to adults rather than children she would be more accepted throughout the wiccan community. I also find some of her ‘spells’ a bit odd, such as homework spells, pushy boyfriend spells, etc…. Anyway, “Solitary Witch” is well thought out and organized, just don’t care for the constant ‘parent child’ way in which she seems to adhere to in her books.
I followed one of Silver Ravenwolf’s spells, and look what it got me! See the results here:
Replying to this video. It was not the practice of magick that did this. It was your lack of understanding evoking/invoking, and you not knowing how to protect yourself. No one needs to include such a thing in this practice. Magick is so much more. I hope you are well, but just wanted to say this to you.
You’re a fucking idiot then ….. Demons are demons any thing you do can open up a portal. Especially if it’s voo do
You think demons are real and you’re calling other people idiots?
You say that Goddess spoke to you before you practiced magick, then you say the practice of magick caused you to hear voices.you say you heard Her voice first and then the male, demonic voice. You did not begin hearing voices because of practicing magick. You have a diagnosis that explains why you heard voices and your medication manages that now. Your diagnosis is shared by many others and they did not come to it by practicing magick. Blaming magick for your diagnosis is wrong. Scaring others with your diagnosis is wrong. Magick did not cause your diagnosis.
You have knowledge and experience with Christianity by your statements about the devil, Lucifer. This suggests you felt guilty about doing things Christianity says are wrong. That could suggest to you that you began to be tormented for your sins. It was the disease expressing itself in ways that made sense to your mind, as you understood right from wrong thru your Christian background.
This is all separate from practicing magick. Please don’t blame yourself for making yourself “sick”. And taking medication for your diagnosis is not a bad thing but a true blessing. People with this diagnosis have suffered grievously for ages because they had no medication to take. You are blessed to have successful treatment for this diagnosis.
I felt the need to reply to this at length, so I prepared a video response.
I do have a question for you? Did you know who you were invoking? Who and what hecata or who ever you spell it was? As with doing anything any results whether it’s working magick or daily prayers depends on the state of your mind and emotions. And you kept referring to Goddess but which one?
Ms. Inquisitive: I don’t even think she knows what a goddess is this woman is completely delirious.
Hey smart ass …. Go ahead and try voo doo be like her and come back to me here
uh…. lots of people do voodoo all the time and they are fine. my partner’s family is from new orleans, and lots of folks do voodoo there and have totally normal and healthy lives.
“There weren’t very many pagans at the time.”
Okay you never should have been doing spells. And still shouldn’t. Wiccans are pagan. Pagan covers a vast amount of people.
This article was interesting, however I did have a problem engaging with it.
Mainly due to your vehemence.
I think you definitely raise some good points, and point out some very interesting quotes. It makes me want to crack open those books and re-read.
However, your unprofessional voice is jarring. All the swearing and the sarcastic attitude in your speech turns me off, and makes me more inclined to dismiss your words as ranting.
To clarify, this writing style can get in the way of someone taking you or your message seriously, because it can build an impression that you are being a “hater” (whether that’s true or not is irrelevant as, again, I am saying its an impression) who isn’t trying to understand where the author is coming from or what they are trying to say.
Don’t misinterpret this as an insult. It is meant as advice when critiquing the work of another.
Also, I think it should be taken into consideration that these books represent her views, and are based on her experiences. She states that many times in books she writes. Its this personal experience that she is offering forward. Not once does she claim to be the authority on this topic.
I think, IMHO, We need to stop telling other witches how to practice their faith. Unless we wanna go ahead and admit we are no more bigoted than Christians, by saying “This is the right way and you are a bigot if you practice otherwise” And At least Silver Ravenwolf did not say entire states deserved to be demolished by tornadoes based on what color their politics were. THAT is a bigot. I for one would rather practice with Silver Ravenwolf than most any other wiccan/pagan I have met because she is the least bigoted of them all. (Plus I have met her she is a kind human and all that matters to me) This is why I am solitare and refuse to pick an actual lable for what I beleive because *Bigots Bigots evertywhere* The faith I learned, allowed for people to make of it what they wished. Especially since Wicca itself was a mumbled jumbled of everything circa what 1960 something. We need to learn to be more tolerant. If we, pagans, are actually capable of doing so that is.
No, Silver Ravenwolf is just as bigoted, and it’s ironic that your saying “Let’s not tell others how to practice” when, 1) Silver Ravenwolf was doing just that in her books (as is basically any person who sets out to write a book for beginners) and 2) the admin here wasn’t trekking Ravenwolf how to practice, but criticizing her approach to teaching others, especially teens.
Smh We truly have become everything we fought against so long ago. Its a shame. We, Witches, sound just like christians arguing over which denomination is right…… How sad. Blessed Be
Since this post I’ve all but stopped practicing. it suddenly occurred to me just how alike witches and Christians are. Its always their way or the highway and if you go against what they say they will curse you, they will have public circles to do said curses, they blackball you from events they ostracize you turn their backs on you. Don’t believe me or agree. I don’t care. I personally experienced this so I know its a real thing. I couldn’t stand what the faith had become. It made me ashamed and embarrassed all at once.. completely straying from the basic principals of the faith itself and become self absorbed and just as hateful as those who once and still often do oppress witches. I’m all but solitaire now and I’m open minded enough to read and learn from a variety of witches but not follow any one certain path.
Do not lose heart Carodwen. -Real- Witches, and -Real- Christians are indeed very much alike. I fear you haven’t encountered many of either realm.
If not for the repulsive corruption of thousands of years, Jesus and Magdalene would be as revered as Isis and Apollo in our circles.
Far too many wearing the trappings of either group become steeped in selfishness, hatred, profiteering, and stage-craft.
Read, absorb. Find your truth, separating the wheat from the chaf.
Oath breakers, warlocks — lurk around every corner
Speak little, Listen much.
Blessed Be.
I’m currently reading Teen Witch as my mother gave it to me for a christmas present. I don’t really have much experience with this kind of thing as although I’ve always been interested, this is the first Wiccan book I’ve owned (and understood so I read it, I had another one which I’m sure is great I just don’t understand some of the language but I leant it to my Mum and she loved it) but I like the style in which it is written but its in a language I can understand and relates to me and I’m sure many other teenagers too. However, now I am slightly worried that the first source of knowledge I am recieving about Wicca is not a reliable one. Do you think its a good idea that I read this book? If not, can you recommend another book on Wicca that is written in a way that I can understand? I’m not uneducated, I’m in quite good sets in school its just if something isn’t written interestingly I find it hard to give it my full attention! I’m not bothered about book size or length as I have bookshelves full of lengthy books that belong to me as I love to read! If you need an age to recommend a book I am fourteen but my reading age is 15-17 (not a big difference in my opinion but may be to you). Thank you!
There are no reliable one’s Wolfe. All books are a good idea because even the bad ones have something for you to learn.
If you enjoyed it and you feel like you got something worthwhile out of it then that is all that matters. If you didn’t like something don’t use it or change it. Don’t fall into the trap of so many who do little more than bitch and moan about how such and such an author is awful and then go and quote someone else as a better example. Of course if you search for the better example you’ll find just as much criticism.
My best advice to you is to shut your computer and go outside and feel the deity within and without. If you can’t; don’t let that stop you from moulding yourself into the person you want to be. Plenty of witches out there who don’t follow any religion and still work the old juju just fine.
Wolfe, If reading Silver’s book was good for you..if you understood it then it is good. There is nothing in Silver’s books that is bad, and much that is good. You will read hundreds of books and this one is a stepping stone to the next.
I have no idea why modern Wiccans hate Silver so much..she does come from an older time when We were Witches and called Wiccans…and we were still having to hide. But now you don’t need to… your Mom gave you a Witches book..I am being asked to teach kids by their parents..and Silver Ravenwolf and so many other of the Elders created that ability. So read Siilver’s offerings and others..many , many others.
I wish you blessings..
Hi Wolfe. I would recommend “If You Want to be a Witch” by Edain McCoy. It’s not long, and it’s simplly good guidance, it’s an old one but perhaps you can find a copy. I read it from the library and then ordered a copy for myself.
Scott Cunningham is a good author as well. It’s not always easy to find folks that can keep to non-angry, judgemental writing. Both Mr Cunningham and Ms McCoy are reliably upfront, sensible and in my opinion, inoffensive in their presentations.
Good reading, Wolfe!
Cassie, Wicca is the earlier word for Witchcraft..Until the 80’s there was no discussion about it. We were Witches in private and Wiccans in company. Wicca is a anglo saxon word pronounced Wi-cha (the double cc’s). When I started there was no separation. Gerald Gardner and the Gardarian Witches would be really surprised at what has happened. He wrote the book in the 50’s that called Witches Wicans. Remember?
Check on what Mike Nichols has to say about it..very enlightening.
http://www.witchessabbats.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8&Itemid=16
What do you think it was like to be a Witch before the internet? We had teachers we had to find. People that at my age was there at the beginning of the renewal. And we were Witches and Wiccans…
I hope no one takes offense, but I’m baffled why several neopagans such as Silver Ravenwolf take two entirely unrelated words (Raven + Wolf) and merge them together. I suppose it’s one thing if you’re on the internet, where a good username can be rather difficult, but it seems bizarre to use this as a real name that you wish to be referred to as. Can anyone explain this?
I think “raven” is a poetic way of saying “black”, so she means “black wolf”.
To Wolfe,Besides the comment about being Outside and connecting(which I totally Agree with) I would recommend looking into the culture and history of Whichever branch of Paganism you are interested in and just read everything.There was quite a few authors already mentioned on here so I will not mention anymore.
To Terra There is a big difference between being a Wiccan and being a witch or a practioner of witchcraft (btw try looking up the difference between American Wiccans and British Traditional”wiccans” and do your own research as I found several things wrong with that article you linked)One is OED says of uncertain origin.
To the rest Yes I found this article slightly abrasive but truthful on some points,Any practioner who misrepresents,lies and or promotes self gain should be Hounded out of their writing career.I have several of Ravenwolfs books and I would not let my children or grandchildren read them until I went thru them with a red marker and marked things out and wrote notes.
Skimmed through Solitary Witch at Books a Million today. It looks pretty informative, though a superficial view of a lot of topics, but she says that’s what the book is. I ordered a copy off of Amazon today to get it a little cheaper. Looking forward to it!
They probably didn;t get it because you spelled it wrong or had a typo when you posted it originally. Just sayin
Terra, I disagree with you on a number of points, although due to time constraints, I will only elaborate on one point.
The primary point I want to make is that a person should be held accountable for their words. If their words contain untruths, then these should be brought to light. Whether Silver Ravenwolf is the trailblazer that you present her to be or not is irrelevant. She has made statements that are factually wrong and presented them as truths. She has made absolutist statements about other forms of non-Wiccan witchcraft which have been shown to be false. She presents a “history” that is not only incorrect, but if it was written about an individual, would be considered libel. It is also probable (in my own opinion) that she also misrepresents her lineage. All of this shows me that while there may be good in her writing, there is enough bad that she, in many places, hinders the very same spiritual growth that people like yourself are trying to encourage.
While I agree that this article is less that respectful, holding someone accountable for their words is not a disrespectful act in and of itself. Her pedigree as far as Wicca goes also means nothing if what she speaks damages Wicca. As has been shown here, her misrepresentations and untruths do exactly that.
She may have opened the the door by being so public and writing books but Silver has presented historically incorrect information. Just because one is an “Elder” does not mean they’re above reproach and we shouldn’t take their word for gospel. Presenting incorrect information is poisonous. Yes Wicca has been used interchangeably for witchcraft in the past but witchcraft as Gardner practiced is not the same witchcraft for all witches.
I wanted to just say, I love this site, and this article because it touches on all that’s wrong with Silver Ravenwolf. I’d also like to add a correction about Satanists. You said “Also, as a note: many Satanists don’t believe in Satan either, and none of them believe in the Christian version of Satan.” I want to say you are incorrect. There are Theistic Satanists who very much do believe in the Christian Satan, as well as Satanists who worship Ha-Satan from Islam. Please be mindful that you don’t erase others in an attempt to make it seem “better.” I suppose you could have meant how the Christians villainize Satan, but even still Satanists acknowledge his role as the Adversary of Humanity.
I have come from a Christian background into Wicca and early on in my journey I told myself I would never speak against over religions as its not really very constructive.Having believed in Christianity for so long it was difficult to embrace something new and fresh even though I’ve always felt that pull towards wicca and witchcraft from my teens.Many years have passed and a clearing has been made for me now and even though I’ve been up a few garden paths and some blind alleys but its not worth crying over spilt milk.
I mean you no ill will, but must confess that your piece on Ravenwolf has me cogitating recklessly. I should be sleeping, not remarking. Then here it is, my peace to you.
The idea here, with this post, I’m assuming, is more complex than giving it a once-over and having it all figured out. You put a lot of time into it, no doubt, and there were some comments on here from people hoping, I think, to help you get your point across. And I would like to be one of those people, if I can.
Firstly, review logic fallacies, because I swear I could write a five page essay pointing out all the pitfalls. Then, I could slap myself in the face because according to one of those fallacies, I would be a fool to discredit you for the fallacies you committed… You may be right; Ravenwolf may be pure-dee 90% a fraud of a person persuading undeveloped minds into believing her writings are truth. Or maybe you’re wrong. My first point is in your criticism, you sound very much bitter, and I think that bitterness is the driving mechanism for all the errors in logic.
Second, there’s a lot going on. For what I take from your post, I think it could have been condensed to nearly half its size for the same message. You could lead your readers into and out of your points well enough I think if you trimmed some of that bitter fat 😀
Thirdly, you stated near the beginning: “With Ravenwolf, it’s not merely a difference of opinion or personal belief. It’s about facts. . .”
The fact is, it’s already thousands of years from now, and your prejudice is wasted. If it harm none, do what ye will. So is their real, measurable harm coming from Ravenwolf to the Wiccan community? Do the thoughts and opinions of non- or anti-Wiccans truly harm Wiccans because they’ve been mixed with Ravenwolf? Maybe. Or maybe you’re pouring too much time into negative thoughts. It’s hard to be positive about the things that bother us, but I’m sure you took something good away from her writings, even if it was to be more wary of authors on the subject :D.
I’m going to sleep, and I’m sure your post will make its way into my dreams tonight.
Yes, actually, Ravenwolf is doing harm.
She is outright lying about many things. Not only can this cause trouble for kids reading her books but any nonwiccan who decides to pick it up. They’ll come out of it with information that just isn’t true, and imagine what a Christian parent will do after seeing all the shots she takes at the religion. I doubt they would let their child practice after that.
It’s this sort of thing we need to call out. There is one thing to make the practice more comfortable for yourself, but it’s a whole other to make up lies.
Witch bigots, wow. Non-published folks always happy to tear down a published author. I find the pagan community as prejudiced and backbiting as any Christian faith. Shame on all of you. As with anything, take what speaks to you from any writing. Mud slinging, just like politicians. That’s why I am a solitary
Oh? These quotes were taken from Ravenwolf’s own books.
Lies and misinformation. There’s nothing bigoted about calling out someone for making utter BS that will harm those who read it, especially teenagers. And nobody cares if she’s published, being published doesn’t suddenly make what you’ve created uncriticizable and the truth. Trump is published. Meyer is published. Hitler was published. All of it still utter garbage.
Also it’s funny youre saying all this whole suddenly claiming everyone here isn’t solitary and that you are somehow better because you are.
Tsk tsk.
I enjoyed your article, and in spite of other comments, shall say that I found your writing to be of quality and did not detect a particular lack of fluidity or skill.
And my two bits on Ravenwolf. Jokingly, I will say, that the women really should have picked one spirit animal. Three is going way overboard.
Really though, in my explorations within the practice, I found Ravenwolf’s works appealing as a young girl. (8-11) When I dreamed of literally flying on a broomstick, and thought if only I could afford and gather the required material, a love spell would work perfectly and instantaneously. I think this is the problem with Ravenwolf, I feel she presents the religion a bit like the stereotype of “witchery”. I prefer a more pragmatic approach, personally. Of course my own believes are not the point. As many have stated, I too, much prefer Scott Cunningham to Silver Ravenwolf. I feel that she paints an image of witchcraft and wicca with a very cartoonish hand, using garishly bright colors.
I’ve never read books on Wicca, Witches, Neopaganism, or casting spells. I don’t know who any of the above authors are. I have been a Solitary Witch from the crib. I felt a presence near me when I was alone, and later, it communicated with me in a way that is not possible to describe. I was told I was loved, and being watched over. Growing up, I could feel invisible eyes observing me, guiding me by way of my conscience as to how to conduct myself. My small town’s library had no books on this subject, but I wouldn’t have known how to ask for what I was looking. No internet at the time also. It was me and this presence. Later, in my late teens, I was told not to read the books on witchcraft. I was drawn to Mythology, history, and various religious beliefs beginning with crude drawings on ancient walls of caves. I experimented with the flow and ebb of energies, manipulating them to meet a desired outcome. Karma beat me up at first. I used this energy unwisely and recklessly. Now, I am a Crone. I still read old documents and such. But I haven’t read specific authors or books on this subject. In fact, this is my first query into other’s ideas about what it means to study and practice magic. I believe I have done well, and will be treated with a sentimental fondness when I return home. That’s all I wanted to say. Thanks.
Thank you for sharing your life story.
This is Jeth, btw are my comments submitting?
Oh well I guess my comments from FB haven’t been submitting. Anyway I had wrote this:
Okay, so I saw a lot of the posts. Boy! There is a lot on this. I wanted though to offer more of an insider’s perspective. I’ve never been affiliated with Ravenwolf and during my Wiccan days I somehow managed to avoid her. Even during my most ignorant. However, I do know someone who was in her coven.
S/he has said, that the Teen book is basically the whole coven, but that Silver is considerably darker in her actual practice than how it appears in the books. (Her coven was mad about it too.) That they center around the goddess Morrigan and that Silver, actually attacks and curses people. Specifically, people who leave her coven. So, my friend, is very apprehensive about coming forward because of the retaliation. (Since s/he left the coven.) I am trying to encourage her to come forward anonymously, because she sounds worse than this article makes it out to be.
Back when s/he was in the coven s/he was more uncaring and cold. Since then they have been happier. Anyways, s/he also said that in the Bio channel documentary on Witches, that was not Silver’s house. But another coven member’s because her house was messy. I laughed. She looks totally fake in that interview btw. (Goes for the crocodile tears.) I dunno if you have seen it, but Silver was there as some sort of grab and I think you had written on the old site that it felt like she sold out her religion…. I completely agree with this after my friend told my stuff about her. (Last time I saw that documentary for free on Youtube, because it’s kind of old. I disagree with some of it, but it covers Neo-Wicca well.)
I don’t think she is sincere and I don’t respect her because I don’t feel she contributed to the pagan community in good intentions. I feel like she is very sneaky and very good at PR. I do think part of the reason was money. I do not think this is the entire reason. Anyway, I think that explains some of her behavior in her essay like looking for trouble.
Thanks for the “insider report”. “Luring” teens in with the “sugary” stuff while her motives are more about the monetary returns on that market, and her heart being darker than she lets on…it all ties together well and helps all of the pieces make much better sense, in my opinion. Thanks again, and only good energies to you and your friend.
she wrote from other sources and added her own opinions and thoughts.
as far as the B.F.C. there is more to this then anyone knows.
it dates back way further then what is given and the secrets remain there.
why would we give the truth to those who would appose us, We wouldn’t and will never,it is only for us,not the world, we do not display nor promote our ways our teachings and why we do what we do.
we do Bless all those whom learn the way of the craft.
Blessings
Well I think your a stupid judgmental fuck like you are bashing her about. Lmao
And I think you’re an idiot who needs to learn the difference between being judgemental and calling someone out for
LITERALLY
LYING.
I think all you haters are just jealous of her success. I have read MANY, MANY books on the subject of Wicca and NONE of them are the same, and they ALL have a large following of haters and those who disagree with the content. This is the part of Wicca that makes me sick; very few things are agreed upon by all, and so many Wiccans/Pagans are quick to trash each other (no different from any other group or religion). Silver RavenWolf just breaks it down so that it’s easy to understand, uses alot of humor and personal life experiences and some of her own opinions. Her huge success should be an indicator that most of the books out there on this subject aren’t clear on things, or raise more questions than give answers.
If you’re so smart, why not write your own book, publish it and be successful. I’ll buy it and read it; and just like Silvers books, I’ll glean from it what I need and toss the rest. The general population of Pagan readers aren’t as stupid as you think they are (even if they are teenagers). Let us know when you publish! :/
Commercial success doesn’t mean a book is “good”, just that it sold well. Look at 50 Shades Of Grey; that and subsequent books are not “good” by any literary measure, but they sold well.
As for your advice, couldn’t the same be said to you? I mean, are you the admin of a website about Wicca that gets decent page views? I mean, by your rubric, the only people who could critique authors are other authors (which is just not true).
“I think all you haters are just jealous of her success. I have read MANY, MANY books on the subject of Wicca and NONE of them are the same”
None of them are the same probably because few or none of them are about authentic wicca. Wicca is one specific religion. You probably confuse the word “witchcraft” with “wicca” as do likely most of the authors you read.
Oh I’m so sick of this “you’re just jealous” bull.
No.
WE AREN’T.
RAVENWOLF LIES.
A LOT.
Sorry that you fame blinded folks seem to equate calling out BS to being “jealous” but thays not how it works, and being successful doesn’t mean you’re right. Meyer is successful. Her books are trash. Same with Trump.
I didn’t know about any of her other books, but I have what got me serious about witchcraft; essentially an encyclopedia by her called “book of shadows”. The information doesn’t seem to have a bias or even be wrong (luckily things like moon phase information and the definition of tarot is hard to mess up), but I suppose I should double-check the text and take it all with a grain of salt. Honestly I never knew she got so strangely off-putting and disliked by others because I never gave much thought to the credibility of her name, I simply looked up a bunch more resources (from various authors) relating to the subjects I enjoyed because it was all very fascinating and invigorating to learn. I’m glad I didn’t take too much of her writings to heart, though I am now nervous I may have facts wrong. It’s a shame because that book is huge and covers nearly everything ever. Though I’m not a teen; I’m 22 and I’d probably rather have a book that helps me improve my finances magically than getting some guy in my math class to fall in love with me through a charm…..so maybe I’m getting due for an upgrade anyway.
I started my path to the craft on one of her books. I was old enough to see quickly enough that her books would never work for me. I have Solitary Witch mainly because it is mostly her collecting other people’s knowledge. I really do not like her writing, or that it is a resource for young people looking into a new path, and I feel that I am allowed to say that. I will give her the respect that a fellow person deserves, but she has not earned any extra respectability from me just because she is well known, published, and has sold many books. She will never be a good teacher of these things in my eyes, and I warn friends off of her books (but if they still want to buy them after I explain, well that is up to them of course). I think people “learning” from her books are exposed to just as much hatred and bigotry towards other religions as they could get coming out as a witch in the middle of Sunday mass, and enough misinformation to set them back at least a year of study.
You can disagree, that’s a you thing. But this is me.
Totally agree.
This was very insightful. I tried reading one of her books. I think it was To Ride a Silver Broomstick, actually.
Something felt off when I was reading it. I felt as though if I continued reading it I was going to end up in some type of spiritual bondage.lol. I checked it out from the library and literally a day or two later I returned it.
I’m a Christian first and foremost but I do incorporate some aspects of the Craft and other religions into my worship. I am experimenting but if I find that something contradicts too heavily with my beliefs I will not hesitate to toss it out.
My mentality is, there is one God. YHWH. He has angels, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit on assignment to help us navigate through life. He also gave us tools. Herbs, chakras, incense, candles and resins, stones and crystals, the supernatural power of the human mind, etc. to put the ball in our court. If we were created in His image and His likeness, that means, while we should pray to Him and worship Him, we really don’t have to beg and plead and wait on him for everything. He gave us the tools. Jesus didn’t even pray every time he performed a miracle. And he said we’ll perform even greater works than him!
But what really turns me off about this is her hatred towards monotheistic beliefs. It is very hypocritical and if you’re wrong you’re wrong. I don’t care who you are or how long you’ve been practicing anything. And to see that I was right to return the book as soon as I did makes me feel good, like maybe I’m on the right track.
I dont like your beliefs either. But thats because I KNOW youre an ignorant christian that doesnt know that magic is forbidden by sheep like you. Begone, and may our paths never physically cross, because I dont like your kind, simply put, I was a christian for a long time, and its a very dark path and you are too fucking ignorant to understand that youre doing something youre not supposed to.
1. You’re gross and unnecessarily disrespectful. Hating the religion is one thing but being an a**hole to someone for no reason is something else entirely.
2. I’ve evolved from Christianity altogether. Still not Wiccan though, but definitely a witch.
3. Begone and May we never cross paths lol you sound like the Christians you so passionately dislike.
4. Silver Ravenwolf is still trash.
Furthermore if you actually looked at the Bible you’d see that Jesus himself was basically a witch.
Who else would be able to do all that alchemy? Change the weather?
Multiply food? Turn water into wine? Use spit and dirt to heal a blind person? Bring somebody back not one, but TWO people from the dead? Oh and bread and wine for communion, sounds a little like cakes and ale.
You’re too ignorant to see the truth because you’re blinded by hate. That’s not my problem. Jesus didn’t say shit about witchcraft. Everybody else did.
Like I said, I’m no longer a Christian. But I have enough sense to see the truth behind all the smoke and mirrors. When you stop hating everybody for hurting your little feelings then you can actually evolve.
Pardon the profanity, idk how to delete the comment lol
I’m not a Christian either, Brianna, but I really think your comment above was uncalled-for. Surely we can all disagree without being disagreeable.
Silver Ravenwolf writes for 10-15 year old girls period. Her work cannot be taken seriously by a Witch. Wiccan, fluff bunnies, who knows? Witches save your time and money.
That’s all,
Blessed Be,
El Brujo Diego
Sorry,
Another few things I’d like to add. Any Witch who has spent years and years working the craft faithfully, should have less, and less “trappings” or tools. The most powerful tool a Witch can have is a fully intact human skull that is at least 300 years old or older. Other necessities include a good “bond” Tarot Deck, black and white candles, a black handled athame and a solid silver chalice. That is it. You should be beyond circles,quarters, even herbs and incense. Your WILL should be incredibly strong and your relationship with your God and Goddess absolutely unbreakable. If you are “In” for more than 15 years and cannot call fire to your hands with 5 words, you might want to re-think your path.
THE SKULL IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST. IT MUST BE CLEANED, ANOINTED, GIVEN A SECRET NAME, BECOME YOUR BEST FRIEND IN THIS LIFE AND THE NEXT. IT GOES WITH YOU WHERE EVER YOU GO. HE OR SHE IS THE EMBODIMENT OF YOUR CONNECTION TO YOUR POWERS AS A WITCH.
IF YOU WANT YOUR TRUE POWER AS A WITCH, YOU MUST HAVE THE WILL AND FEARLESSNESS TO PLAN AND THEN GET YOUR SKULL. STUDY GRAVEYARDS, FIND OUT THE HISTORY OF YOUR FINAL CHOICE. FINDING A WITCH IS THE ULTIMATE PRIZE, BUT TRY AND FIND A COMPATIBLE FRIEND. ALL I WILL SAY ABOUT MINE IS THAT IT IS OVER 800 YEARS OLD, NATIVE AMERICAN AND A SHAMAN. I HAVE THE WHOLE BODY.
GOOD LUCK AND GOOD HUNTING.
BLESSED BE,
EL BRUJO DIEGO
“Further down the page she refers readers to Barbara Walker’s Women’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets for information. Yet Walker herself describes her repeatedly as Mary the Whore and cites “Magdelene” to mean merely “she of the temple-tower”. (Walker, Barbara G. The Women’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, (HarperCollins Publishers, 1983), page 614.)”
I’m afraid you’re not quite right here. Barbara Walker’s entry on “Magdala” reads as follows:
“‘High Place’, or ‘Temple'; In Herod’s triple-towered palace in Jerusalem, the sanctuary of Queen Mariamne. Thus ‘Miriam of Magdala’ (Mary Magdalene) was either the Queen herself or a high priestess impersonating the Goddess Mari. See Mary.” (Walker, Barbara G., The Woman’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, HarperCollins Publishers, 1983, page 565)
I’m not saying that these claims are correct, mind you. But it’s pretty clear that Silver Ravenwolf did, in fact, get these ideas from The Woman’s Encyclopedia of Myths and Secrets, so your particular point of criticism quoted above is invalid.
She is an amazing author and I LOVE her books. It doesn’t matter what she writes about or what her religion is it is her business and no one else.
Bravo. Just one minor point of contention.
There is actually significant evidence that, for otherwise healthy women, the pain and exhaustion of their cycle is actually caused by lifestyle and sociological issues. Many Western women don’t get enough iron or exercise, which can make periods heavier or more painful.
PMS as a standard feature of menstruation is also “culture-bound,” meaning that we don’t see any evidence of it at all in many other cultures. This suggests that it does indeed have a sociological component. Many such things can cause physical symptoms. For example, vaginismus is often a physical result of a lifetime of sexual shaming, or a history of sexual abuse. Usually, there is no underlying physical cause, and the first line of treatment is psychological therapy (along a similar vein, many cases of ED in men are also psychologically caused and treated with therapy).
In no way does this mean that women’s physical symptoms are less real. The brain is part of the body too, and the symptoms it can cause are just as serious and deserving of attention. But, much like a stopped clock, even Silver Ravenwolf is bound to be right occasionally, even if only by the odds of random chance.
I have no problem with Silver Ravenwolf. Some of her work as she herself claims is only a basic starting point to gather your own gifts and bring them to use. As a natural gifted, looking for a place to start, there are worse places to look. Cant agree with the formal religious criticisms as a whole, they too have their own magic. As for coverns, it sounds a bit like vampirism, trying draw naturals to a craft so the less gifted can feed from their abilities. Time of practice does not make gifted, ability does. Always know your own mind and excercise your own choices.
Only problem I really have with Ms. Ravenwolf is that she included NO resources for LGBTQ teens in her book aimed @ teens. Did she honestly think LGBTQ teens would not be interested in Wicca or Witchcraft when many are raised in traditions that tell them it’s wrong to love someone of the same sex? I became Wiccan many years ago because the Goddess loves me AND I’m a Gay man. I’ve never met a Wiccan or Witch or Voudounsi either, who wasn’t accepting of me as a person, so why the omission?
I enjoyed reading this and personally found nothing wrong with what was written here. I’m sure this post is super old (haven’t checked dates yet) but the comments pissed me off. It’s like people want to justify this woman and her misinformation. She’s preying on teens and giving them bad information so they join her cult. Which seems to have worked on people in the comments. It’s not like you bashed her in this post or were aggressive towards her. You just pointed out what many other people have and showed what people need to know about her. I noticed when someone has gotten into wicca because of her, they have a rude awakening so to speak because they have to learn everything all over again. Anyway, if the only thing they can say aboutabout this post is that your grammar wasn’t perfect then they are idiots who just wanted something rude to say since they apparently are fans of her.
Silver is a professional Witch, She knows the craft and she is trying to inform the general public what Witchcraft is about, I respect her for that . I was honored to be a part of her clan, “UNTIL SHE KICKED ME OUT”. My Priestess and mentor Denise Zimmerman, of the Blue Crab Coven and Cynthia Lollo Priestess of Coven of the Bat, got into a pissing match about me, In the end I got kicked out of the clan. this destroyed me.
It seems as though I always come across this article every few years while I’m perusing the internet for new pagan authors. It makes me laugh every time. I envision the writer being a ‘holier-than-thou’ college freshman, sitting in her room, typing up all of the “evils” that are Silver Ravenwolf. Like I said, I get a good laugh out of it every time.
I don’t know Silver, but I’ve read a couple of her books. In my opinion, they are of the same quality and content as many others… Cunningham, Farrar, Murray, Buckland, etc. Is there misinformation in Ravenwolf’s books? Probably. Is there misinformation in books by other authors on the subject? Probably. Read it for what it is, and lighten up.
Thanks for the laughs!
Yes her books are fluffy bunny material, until you join her CULT. Calling it a “seminary” is laughable. The women in her cult are cold dark and mean. A few years back one of her students down in Texas kelled her boyfriend with a stiletto shoe (she was empowered by the morgan). Just type in stiletto shoe killing Houston Texas in the search bar. Many articles will come up. The news articles even talk about her participation with Black Forest Seminary. Her clan says they worship the Morrogan, but really they are worshiping the female form of Satan. The Morrogan I doubt is pleased
You have been warned.
I read over the articles and I didn’t read anywhere where she participated with any Black Forest Seminary. I have read several of the news articles where she was described as having several mental ailments and along with large consumption of alcohol which could have been at the root of why she outrageously murdered him. If you could, please direct me to some credible sources that state she was part of this Black Forest Seminary or that she was “possessed” by this “Morrogan” spirit?
After reading over this article and in comparison to other books I have read in regards to Wicca and Witchcraft, I have found this to be my opinion. Remember this on only my opinion, take it for what it is worth.
Most of the books written about Wicca or Witchcraft are highly subjective. Many of them are based on personal experiences. Whether these experiences are true or not, it’s not up to be to say. So many years ago when I read Silver Ravenwolf’s “To Ride A Silver Broomstick”, I didn’t take it too seriously. I urge others not to take it with too much seriousness because it is subjective and it is quite sarcastic. That’s how I took it, subjective crafting with political sarcasm and satire. In no way should her material should be taken as historically accurate, and in many cases not even close.
I also keep in mind, her audience as well. Her audience at the time was, young, rebellious 1990’s teenagers. I know this because I was one. They weren’t interested in reading history outside of World History class. They wanted to hear things that would empower themselves to make changes in their lives that were being kept down by “The Man”. “The Man” being any kind of authority figure both at large (police, politicians) and at small (parents, teachers). So there we have it and why it probably has reportedly sold 300,000 copies in the United States.
To wrap this up, as a teenager the book was fun, sarcastic, light-hearted, and the “spells” did what they did for that time. Looking back, as an almost 40-year old man, I’ve totally outgrown my “Silver Trainingpants” as I heard one of my friends refer to it as. Once in a while I will thumb through one of her books on the bookstore shelf and roll my eyes with a chuckle or two. Still the same book, still the same audience, the same old styled sarcasm and yes, still historical inaccuracies out the butt that I can better pinpoint these days. So I know there have been some heated discussions over her work, but let’s all be cool and not get too worked up over this and take it too seriously. Remember, your child’s History class is also filled with inaccuracies too, but we still keep sending them to school for the sake of “higher education”.
No wonder I couldn’t understand her books. I thought it was me .
I read Silver’s book years ago. She promotes Christianity and Paganism. the people that promote her are probably just a bunch of mindless sheep for Jesus. What im trying to say is there are Pagans then there are Catholics trying to infiltrate Paganism for some jumbled up version of Christianity. Steer clear of this nonsense, and if you want to be a zombie for Jesus and practice magic, thats your choice, but there are consequences.
*** Warning: Personal opinion statement coming up*** I think that your statements about people who are Christian’s are extremely intolerant, biased, and immature. Which, of course, is your right should you so choose.
And, last but certainly not least, everyone should consider the consequences of their actions and take responsibility for them; not just Christians who practice magic.
This entire reply section is a testament to why we should be more understanding and less immediately judgemental of someone’s writing. There’s much lost without vocal inflection, body language, etc. What one person says is aggressive another says is not. We each translate the written word differently. I find myself much less inclined to judge a writer for a few reasons. 1) knowledge was not as accessible as it is now the year a book was written. In this case Silver broomstick was published in 1993. The cusp of internet. 2) when we tear pieces out to judge them we remove all the surrounding context. Silver Ravenwolf wrote this particular book to reach mostly young adults. She wrote it to speak to them and to offer advice in a friendly way. She does have some not so nice things to say but in context it fits the narrative. You don’t have to like her material. But I see nothing gained in judging an author besides what can come of as elevating yourself above them. In which case you’re kind of doing something similarly to what’s you are poking at her for.
I generally enjoy “Wicca For The Rest of Us” and have linked it from my own web site for years. However this bash of SR is mostly just a difference of opinion. Reading through the various points I sometimes agree with SR rather than the criticism. You obviously have as much right to your opinion as she does, but I don’t see where bashing other Wiccan writers is good for anyone. SR has succeeded in bringing Wicca to a lot of young readers who otherwise would not have found it. Overall she has contributed more to Wicca than those who bash her.
You love Christian-bashing, seeing as you do it everywhere!
I fail to see how bigotry is a suitable form of opinion.
There’s another author who is awful with this!
The Circle Within by Dianne Sylvan is FILLED with this kind of thing. It’s so nasty that I threw mine away. It felt like she was telling the readers to outright hate their Christian family members.
Thanks, Lavan, for the suggestion. I’ll have to check out Dianne Sylvan’s work.
I’m baffled. You should be a tabloid writer, as I believe your ability to take snippets out of context is fantastic. I’m deeply disappointed as all of her work encourages embracing your beliefs, working things out for your own, and being your own person. The ONLY issue Silver seems to have with Abrahamic religions is that they actually tear down other belief systems. Wicca, and Silver Ravenwolf, try to not do that. This is nonsense.
@kdcraig85gmailcom: Hail and well said.
I just don’t understand why people claim Silver is pompous…..and then in the next sentence imply they know better what is good for everyone? Silver RavenWolfs books are not pompous in any way, her writing has certainly evolved, like most authors. I just think it says quite a but when you are willing to tear down someone else’s work, with 4 statements taken out of context, to me, THAT is rude, and pompous.
indeed i must agree. This person cherry picks knowing that most everyone will never read the entirety to put all into context. Silver states that within her circle not all are witches, including Catholics.
This person has a hidden agenda, though not so hidden to me.
She is on par with the roman empire co-opting and perverting the teachings of Jesus for their own power and profit.
I don’t think saying “witches have nothing to do with Satan” which is what Silver said is anything less than pompous. This is just one of the misinfo she has made in her books. (The Satanic Witch predates all of Silver’s works by decades. So she is objectively wrong.) While she cites her sources, I have checked such sources and again she either takes them out of context or makes up information that is not there. I don’t want a woman who attacks other religions (Yes, “religions” in plural) to make herself look better to represent me. Sorry.
Hmm… I’m just gonna free associate here. I’ve read thru many postings from you and Cassie that are wonderful, and to me, very much in tune with my reading of RavenWolf’s Broomstick. So I was confounded when I came upon this ‘anger-over’ posting and comments, being so acidic and backbiting.
Let me first get this off my chest before I continue, The writings of scholars that insisted the world was flat predates all of Silver’s works by centuries, so the understanding the earth is round is objectively wrong also. correct ?? (ok, better now 😉
You both also, correctly so, state the need to read and comprehend context. SRW is not attacking other religions willy nilly. She welcomes all with positive energies to her circle, religious history be damned. She states her children are free to visit and embrace any church, synagogue, mosque, etc of their choosing. You can’t call that in good faith attacking other religions.
What she does attack is self serving, patriarchal, ‘bow down to me or die’ facsimiles of true religion. “You cannot communicate with God (I would also say Goddess, but that’s frowned upon in these establishments) — by yourself and find your own path, you must go thru me. And oh, by the way, I can absolve your sins but it’ll cost ya 20 bucks”
Is this really the mindset you’re objecting to ?
Well, those were my initial thoughts.
So you know a bit of my spiritual core, I fully support RAINN, their first spokesperson and co-founder being my spirit guide for over 25 years. I also fully support, applaud, and emulate ‘Bikers Against Bullies’. I do not, and will not, tolerate, in any form, bullying, or victimization of women in any form.
Oh, I don’t tolerate gossip either. It’s a nasty bitch.
Blessed Be.
@Mantidae
Right, the flat world thing. In actuality the world was proved round by the Greeks through math. This makes it a credible source. You know there is a difference between credible and not so credible sources, eh?
If she is not attacking religions willy nilly then why is she using what Christians think Satanism is vs actual Satanism? Satanism is not patriarchal. LaVey Satanism in particular is not about bowing down to Satan. It’s about auto-theism and agnostic or atheism in some regard.
Then you go on about RAINN which tells me you know nothing of Satanism and neither does Silver. The Satanic Bible actually tells people NOT to rape! (Contrary to the Old Testament.) It is a gender equal book and does not discriminate against women. Heck, the book doesn’t even discriminate against asexuals, bisexuals, or homosexuals — all written well before those kinds of political beliefs were “cool”. It actually embraces them.
And not tolerating gossip is ironic since you just did a whole staw man argument entirely misrepresenting a religion you know nothing about to attack it. As did Silver. No religion owns the word “witch” and a witch can be of any or -none at all- religion.
Look, I am all for valid arguments against problematic religions such as evangelical Christianity. Question it, yes, definitely. But don’t try to tell me you consider these “good” solid arguments against those religions when you just used the same -religious- mentality they did to attack another one. (Try using secular and logical arguments, instead.) It’s all that “baggage”.
The world is not this black and white thing of “one good religion, one bad.” It’s in the grey. For example, there are many Christians who are not so hateful to other beliefs and embrace diversity. Likewise, being a Wiccan doesn’t make one inherently superior just because they’re pagan.
@Lilith
Just now able to log in but I’m beat. Let me give this a good read and i’ll try and hit you back tomorrow
sleep tight
@Lilith
I did some legwork on the topic before responding.
I didn’t realize the focus was on Satanism
I see the – “two major trends are theistic Satanism and atheistic Satanism. Theistic Satanists venerate Satan as a supernatural deity, viewing him not as omnipotent but rather as a patriarch. In contrast, atheistic Satanists regard Satan as merely a symbol of certain human traits.” [1]
You apparently are attuned to LaVey Satanism, and I found where High Priest Magus Gilmore described “Theistic Satanism” as “oxymoronic”. [2] Which would tell me you are representing atheistic Satanism, promulgated by Anton LaVey.
– So, more digging… This sounds pretty Wiccan:
“LaVey believed that ‘The ideal Satanist should be
individualistic and non-conformist’ ” [3]
– and then, not so much…
“hate and aggression were not wrong or undesirable emotions but that they were necessary and advantageous for survival. Accordingly, he praised the seven deadly sins as virtues which were beneficial for the individual.” [4]
– you said a couple times you have a disdain for trashing other religions ?
“LaVey an Satanism views Christianity – alongside other major religions, and philosophies such as humanism and liberal democracy – as a largely negative force on humanity; LaVeyan Satanists perceive Christianity as a lie which promotes idealism, self-denigration, herd behavior, and irrationality.” [5]
“LaVey’s Satanism was particularly critical of what it understands as Christianity’s denial of humanity’s animal nature, and it instead calls for the celebration of, and indulgence in, these desires. In doing so, it places an emphasis on the carnal rather than the spiritual. “ [9]
( Wicca does loosen the reigns on carnal knowledge, but not at the expense of spirituality )
– and then …
“LaVey explained that the gods worshiped by other religions are also projections of man’s true self. He argues that man’s unwillingness to accept his own ego has caused him to externalize these gods so as to avoid the feeling of narcissism that would accompany self-worship.” [6]
“LaVey espoused the view that “god” is a creation of man, rather than man being a creation of “god”. In his book, The Satanic Bible, the Satanist’s view of god is described as the Satanist’s true “self”—a projection of his or her own personality—not an external deity.” [7]
– With this read, I was drawn back to one of my favorite tomes. Here, ‘Taking on Projections’ …
“You begin to take on the fantasy world that you created, and – this is the hubris of it – you also start taking on what the Divine has given you and not giving the Divine credit. — When I spoke to the Dark Prince in ceremony, he told me, ‘As soon as you stop being humbled by the creation process, Little One – it is so much bigger than you are. And when you think it is you and you are it, it will drown you or burn you alive”. [8]
Wiccans believe all of humanity to be free and to live as they see fit. Just so one does not become a menace, harming others by being inherently self serving, full of hate, anger, and negativity.
The witches broom, prominent in our traditions, is endowed with the purpose of sweeping away these negative influences surrounding us and their infiltration within us, not indulging in them. This so as to be clear of mind when communing with the God and Goddess and their deity.
You see, Wicca is at it’s very heart celebrates humanity’s spiritual nature. We are brought into this earthly form as feminine and masculine, not just physically but also spiritually. One not meant to dominate the other, but as equals, just as the Goddess and the God, that combine to form the whole,
the All. We have deities that have come to us throughout time, to commune with us in the earthly realm, to help us grasp these concepts. Aphrodite, Isis, Apollo, Zeus, Magdalene and Christ for instance. I remember a passage from Kate West that wonderfully illustrates this theme. Think of one of those mirrored balls you see at concerts or parties. While each mirror on the ball represents a different face, deity, of the God or the Goddess, there is still only one unified Goddess and God, only one ‘ball’. The issue I see with atheistic Satanism is you don’t even have a ball. And you can’t begin to play Wiccan without a ball.
The path you have chosen would not be mine, but it is yours alone to choose. I wish you no ill will, and I hope this path brings you fulfillment and happiness, but, this path has no true semblance to Wicca. ( Wicca/Wicce, are the old Middle English words of what became spoken today as ‘Witch’ )
Merry meet an merry part -bright the cheeks an warm the heart
Blessed Be.
[1] Gilmore, Peter. “Science and Satanism”. Point of Inquiry
Interview. Retrieved 9 December 2013.
[2] High Priest, Magus Peter H. Gilmore. “F.A.Q. Fundamental
Beliefs”. churchofsatan.com.
[3] Dyrendal 2013, p. 129.
[4] Lap 2013, p. 94.
[5] Faxneld & Petersen 2013, p. 80.
[6] LaVey 2005, pp. 44–45.
[7] Cavaglion & Sela-Shayovitz 2005, p. 255.
[8] Piece by Piece Tori Amos & Ann Powers- Broadway
Books 2005 p.11.
[9] La Fontaine 1999, p. 96.
Now I’m tempted.to throw away the “Solitary Witch” by Silver Ravenwolf (that I’ve barely read from anyway). No, I think I’ll keep it-just for laughs.
you lost me at “anyone who structures their life decisions on divination is a tool” that’s what divination is for…..
I remember liking TRASB when I first read it, then I went back and realized it was meant for adults… It’s kind of like the neopagan version of Twilight (and I own a copy of that, too…).
Hey, it turns out that “Wicca” and “wicker” do have related origins. They both come from Middle English, originating from Scandinavian and/or Anglo-Saxon words meaning “to bend.” “Wiker” refers to bendy willow branches, and “wicca” refers to a witch, who can bend reality to his (or “wicce,” her) will. Etymology is cool!
This article is slandering and not relevant to the respected Silver Ravenwolf. Many New school wiccans are misguided. We follow a rede that most know “Bide the Wiccans Law ye must. In perfect love and perfect trust. Eight words the Wiccans Rede Fullfill: An ye harm none, do what ye will.” Basically, we prefer to do good. When a witch performs bad spells she is inviting evil entities. These entities hang around all of the time afterwards. They are hoping a careless witch will lower their vivlbrations again by doing harm to match theirs. She is not using Christianity only reminding all witches to keep their vibrations high by doing so. This article is ridiculous and low level.
The rede means advice and is not a call for pacifism. Doreen Valiente, who wrote this, explained in the ABCs of Witchcraft.
What this person has written is libel. Defamation of character on his or her belief. Citing passages out of a book like people do in the bible all the time and misinterpreting them for what they believe. But sadly enough this still happens. Don’t worry. This will be reported to the authors book company, of course years later for defamation of character. .
People are allowed to have opinions, no one has to agree with Ravenwolf. She has lied about her initiation and lineages. This has been noted on other websites. Should they be sued for libel too?
Cassie Beyer on June 5, 2014 — 144 Comments
In Regard to the above article
Quote:
“With Ravenwolf, it’s not merely a difference of opinion or personal belief. It’s about facts, which can be disproved, and moral issues, which can quickly color a community when a vocal member puts them forth.”
Are these not the traits, that have caused the burning of hundreds of individuals because they dared to express themselves when the community surrounding them were blinded by their own prejudices and medieval beliefs? ARE you part of the magical human race or not? By criticizing her for speaking her own mind, using her fundamental rights, and then to have you(who are an apparent blogger and writer) whine about her success, More power to you! Because you too are using your rights. Could you not also try using your energy in a positive way by writing your own wonderful book or staring your own wonderful coven? Grow up! Unless YOU can provide undeniable truth about what you have to say too, shut up and move on! Even in criticism, a person can be positive and send a little bit of light into the world instead of a dark cloud.
Well said, Mountain River.
I stand with you Mountain River.
wiccan and witch, wicca and witchcraft are not synonymous.
This means that others who practice beliefs outside of WICCA are not witches.
witches is older than wicca ( by way of 1950’s) witches is older, right.
let’s be open to the movement.
Boo.
Wicca is still a baby compared to witchcraft (I mean it’s relatively modern in comparison)
thank you.
Can’t someone write a story book and not get bashed for what’s in it. I mean it was written to be I story not an educational book.
Silver Ravenwolf writes books instructing people on Wicca. She is not writing fiction, she writes nonfiction. It’s not just a story, she is publishing these books as true claims
One correction. The official witch hunt numbers were as you stated, however many mob, “torch and pitchforks” executions did in fact push the number up to nine million when including unofficial executions. I actually learned about this in my university history class which examined the witch hunts.
I respect Ravenwolf’s aversion to Christianity but when writing books intending to give advice she needs to keep her personal dirty laundry to herself.
Also some wiccans do in fact believe in and work with angels. See: eclectics and interfaith Christian Wiccans
‘many mob, “torch and pitchforks” executions did in fact push the number up to nine million when including unofficial executions.’
It’s physically impossible for even one million deaths to have occurred — including or excluding unofficial executions — in Salem during the Witch Trials. The estimated population of the Thirteen Colonies in 1700 (a few years after Salem) was 874,000.
If you’re referring to ‘mob justice’, then yes, in Europe it might have been possible, but since ‘unofficial executions’ were, by definition ‘unofficial’ and most likely not documented, there’s no solid evidence either way.
I think, reading what you are saying and what she said in her books, that maybe she could have explained it differently but she’s not wrong about some of it. Such as, prayer in paganism can be quite different from the way Christians do it, I believe at the most basic in paganism that is setting intentions and learning to work with them, although prayer can come in different forms . As a teen I had one of her books and didn’t notice any of it – didn’t follow it as such either – but it was a bridge as I was stepping out of Christianity. I understand what she meant by turning the other cheek. That is very much a Christian thing that can remain for a while. I’ve seen others do it, and I’ve done it – until such a time I was ready to rebalance it. The focus that can be there to do only good can sometimes be a part of that, as can the new agey way of almost pretending it isn’t there which can be quite harmful. So, I don’t think she was encouraging anyone to do any harm but it could maybe have been expressed a little differently.
Why are we so mad about a book written in the 90’s??? I have her book of shadows solitary witch I use for references and for some spells get ideas from. She does put down when something is her opinion or if she got info from somewhere else. I mean no one agrees with everyone if we did we would have world peace. But I find some of her things informative but I do my research on it and make my own informed decision. But being a witch for me is more than just a fad. But good looking out I think the moral here is like someone else said if you don’t like it or agree don’t buy her books. Like when religious ppl get so mad about ya gays getting married you don’t like it then don’t come to my wedding lol
Oh leepeh again commenting it was supposed to be us gays not ya gays because I am gay sorry I suck at typing on phone damn auto correct
Whoever wrote this against her is an ass. Probably hurt because they didnt write her books. Or didnt get enough attention. Or is just an ass. Lol. Millions of people love her and just cause this person doesn’t, doens’t mean you should be an ass also. I am her son btw :). Find a new hobby person!
This feels like a slightly biased reason to insult people.
So if you are her son, that makes you Cadmium Raven-Symone Cub? Not calling names, just clarifying. So are you upset mommy isn’t sharing the money fast enough? You came in angry, so that feels like a natural assumption. But if that is true, then…Looking to get into Necromancy for all the right reasons to raise a family? I want you calm. I want you rational. I want you in an open state for the universe in it’s many forms to reach open ears. You seem to think that because millions of people love Mommy that the author should too, but then you simply have to like Mao Tse Tung, Reverend Moon, Trump, and Manson under that logic. See how that seems weird if you don’t love them too? I believe in you! I give the energy needed to read critically.
BTW, what is a “hobby person” and how does it make them feel to be called such?
I read a bit of her book and gave it away. You can’t become a witch by reading a book. I don’t follow any authors advice or rules on being a witch. This “Silver Ravenwolf” gal grew us in an era of charmed and wanted to make her own rules. The name alone is just too fake to stomach. A witch wouldn’t share her craft with the world in a book.
I could finish this article beyond a few paragraphs. Its one of those pieces that twists words and meaning, carefully selecting a micro aspect of what was said and jetisoning it off into a gripe about something the critiqued author clearly never intended. A load of waffle in my opinion. Silver Ravenwolf is fine – save the scrutiny for those who are actually doing something gravely wrong
Is this even written by a wiccan or witch? The way they ended the article would lead me to conclude otherwise. Witchcraft is a practice, not a religion. It is alot like science in the way that you experiment with different spells. The testing, recording, revising processes are all very similar. And her comment about religion doesn’t just call out Christianity, it calls out ALL religions. Witchcraft is not about worshipping deities. It’s about coming into your own power and working alongside deities as their EQUAL.
This entire post is out of touch and doesn’t include the terrible experiences most people have had with the “more popular” religions to turn them away. It’s very obvious you’ve never been involved with Christians, as they do believe they live in a Kingdom and only them deserve to go to a peaceful afterlife…
She is a human being, and is allowed to write what she wants about her experiences.
And did you never go to history class? Christians actively sought to murder, rape and destroy entire civilizations that didn’t bend to their will. I mean… open up your eyes for a second through the hate of some random author and think about the shit you’re typing.
You can have an opinion all you want, but for you to type this long winded, virtually Christian brainwashed version of witchcraft… it makes people like me wonder if you’re not just writing this to “fit in” on the “We Hate Silver” bandwagon.
The fact that you conflate Wicca with witchcraft invalidates any arguments you might have had. Not once does this article say that the Church of England never committed atrocities, because it did, but guess what? So did our Pagan ancestors! How many times did the Celts try to invade Rome, for instance? What happened in the past is not an excuse for treating people like shit in the present.
Do you honestly condone encouraging kids to lie to their parents, or suggesting that being a Wiccan or a witch makes them superior to others? Do you think teaching erroneous history is only an “opinion”? Do you not think Ravenwolf’s assertion that Wiccans and witches are the same thing (they aren’t), that Satanists can’t be witches (they can), or that the very name of our religion, Wicca, is wrong just because she says so are appropriate? If your answers to any of these questions is yes, you are a scourge on our community.
If someone is a satanist, doesn’t that mean they fall under the Abrahamic religion, since they believe in Satan? Isn’t being a Satanic or Christian witch an oxymoron? I don’t understand how you can be monotheistic and be a witch. Witches believe that WE control our destiny and can manipulate the energy of the universe to bend to OUR will, while monotheists believe that an invisible imaginary force controls all things. They cancel each other out.
Witchcraft isn’t a religion, so anybody can practice it; Wicca does not have a monopoly on witchcraft. Anton LaVey wrote an entire book called The Satanic Witch, and members of the Church of Satan, and I presume the Satanic Temple, practice witchcraft.
I really don’t give a flying crap about Christians, or about who chooses to practice witchcraft. It’s not my business, and I don’t care. As for Satanists, LaVeyan Satanists are really atheists who see Satan as an archetype or symbol. Maybe you should read up on it before passing judgement.
Nice job on dodging every single one of my questions, by the way.
And I love how you backtracked and said that Satanists don’t worship Satan, which proves both my point and Silver Ravenwolf’s that you cannot believe in Satan and be a witch. You can be an extremely confused individual who thinks they are a witch☺️
Well said! This entire post is full of Christian apologists, not witches. The ones who are actually practicing witches not only agree with Silver Ravenwolf, then commend her for all her hard work and dedication. It’s thanks to women like her that we can even SPEAK about witchcraft. They seem to be under a false pretense when it comes to Christians and witches. Some of us (like me) still have to be very careful around our Christian family members. They are so extreme they would literally murder me for being a witch and call it “God’s will”.
These people need to stop jumping on the bandwagon just to feel “woke.” That’s never been what witchcraft was about.
Are you kidding me with this? You seem to be laboring under the delusion that Wicca and witchcraft are the same thing. I repeat, they are not. There are more witches who aren’t Wiccan than those who are Wiccan, and they don’t appreciate being equated with them.
Christian apologists? No. There’s a difference between tolerating the asshole variety of Christians and not wanting to treat the average Christian like an asshole when they haven’t done anything.
What makes you think you can speak for all “practicing witches”? Ravenwolf has a poor reputation among Wiccans and witches alike for a reason, which is explained in this article and others at length.
By the way, I’ve been a Wiccan and a witch for over 20 years, which I suspect is at least 15 years longer than you, so don’t preach at me, little girl. It’s got nothing to do with “wokeness,” it’s about despising when people use Wicca to make money by making impressionable children feel special and teaching them false history. Is that so hard to understand?
If all you know about Wicca or witchcraft is what you learned from Ravenwolf, you know nothing.
I haven’t avoided any questions WTF are you talking about? And I’ve been practicing witchcraft for the SAME amount of time, so you can get your head out of your ass. I never said anything about Wicca. And Silver Ravenwolf does not teach false history, you are showing that you don’t know anything about Christians, Catholics, or religious persecution.
And I don’t like people who are obviously just trying to be “trendy”. Being a witch and being a Christian literally doesn’t make sense. Witchcraft is a SIN in their eyes if you ever bothered to read either of the Bibles. So by accepting Christ BUT still choosing to practice witchcraft, they are damning themselves, which is moronic.
I don’t tolerate foolishness. Why should I? I don’t have to respect people’s beliefs, beliefs ARE fictitious. That’s like saying someone MUST respect the Harry Potter series because I believe Hogwarts is real! They most certainly do NOT have to respect nonsense. Cuz while we were all “respecting” Christians for worshipping a egocentric baby drowning alien, they were literally KILLING us for not believing the same
You are hopeless. You seem to have no reading comprehension ability, or else you’re being disingenuous
We are on a website about Wicca, discussing books that are supposed to be about Wicca. Why should we not be talking about fucking Wicca?
Again, I am not a Christian and don’t give a flying fuck about them or what they might do. Do I think being a Christian and a witch makes much sense? Not really, but I’m not going to waste my time brooding over it.
It’s no secret that the Church committed horrible acts in the past. Everybody did, including our Pagan ancestors. You seem to think that justifies hating the average Christian in the present day, which is a weirdly Christian thing to think, that it’s right and just to punish the son for the sins of the father.
$ilver’s books do in fact teach a false history. Nine million people did not die in the Inquisition – there weren’t even nine million people in 1000 CE – Wicca is not the oldest religion, and most of the people who died in the Inquisition and the Crusades weren’t witches, even if they were accused of such. The crime was heresy, which means having an opposing opinion from the established orthodoxy. That could mean A LOT of things.
How did I backtrack on Satanism? Because I said that LaVeyans don’t believe in a literal entity called Satan? That’s just a fucking fact.
Somebody has their head up their ass here, but it isn’t me. If you’ve really been at this for twenty years and still have this nasty attitude and loose grip on reality, you have more problems than I can help you with.
You are confusing the Spanish inquisition with the Crusades, where MILLIONS did die. And I am condemning the entire religion and anyone who follows it, because if you can read both Bibles and the history of Christianity, and still decide that it’s a religion you want to follow, you are a fucked up individual. I don’t have to judge a Christian off the past, I judge them off their current CHOICES, which is what you should do.
And the website may be about Wicca, but this post is about shitting on Silver Ravenwolf, a woman who endured more than you ever will when it comes to being a witch, so you didn’t have to.
You’re right, I did have my events confused, and millions of people did die in the Cursades over several centuries. However, there’s still one important fact to keep in mind: Those millions of people were not witches, for the most part.
I happen to agree that Christianity is an awful religion, but I would be a hypocrite if I didn’t say that everybody else has the same freedom of religion as I do. Unless an individual does something to personally slight me, it’s not my business what they believe.
I really don’t give a shit what $ilver endured; she’s hardly the only one. That doesn’t excuse her false teachings or behavior. What I condemn is when people do “nice things,” sometimes against others’ will, and then hold it against them when they do something shitty.
By the way, Pagans and witches are still facing persecution, even in first-world countries, never mind the countries where it’s a crime punishable by death. She didn’t save the world, lady.
I came here from a site that discuss her works not related to Wicca or Neopaganism for that matter, and Gods it’s worse than what it seemed at first. It does not help matters either the language she uses, even if I understand this was written down with teenagers in sight instead of adults.
Ravenwolf always felt like a Osteen in a pointy hat. Using a religion they are not part of…to shill those who are. Even the name feels truly fake.
For some reason it will not let me reply directly, so I will just write it here.
REPLY TO TOPH
IF you knew anything about religion, especially Christianity and Catholicism, you would know they consider anyone in any other religion or no religion at all, as “witches” or “devil worshippers.” If you had even been to church, you would hear them call the gods of Hinduism “demons” and condemn Islam, even though it is an Abrahamic religion. So it honestly doesn’t matter if all the people that died in the Crusades were not all witches, they were labeled as such and killed right alongside the real witches. In the eyes of their persecutors, they were witches. You say that everyone has the freedom to practice what religion they choose. That does not mean they are above reproach or criticism. If someone wants to worship an evil deity such as the God of the Bible, then they should rightfully be judged or criticized for that choice. You have a very selfish mindset if you feel like something has to happen to you directly in order for it to be “your business.” Those are the worst kinds of people, ones who will allow atrocities to continue because it’s not directly affecting them. It’s akin to America’s approach to the Holocaust, and an immoral way of thinking. I, on the other hand, do not need someone to hurt me directly to condemn them for how they treat others. You are not special, if they did it to someone else, they most certainly will do it to you. And lastly, I never said that Silver Ravenwolf changed the world, I said she suffered and spoke out so that people like you can speak freely about witchcraft without being killed. Even if witches are still persecuted in some countries, that number is WAY LESS than it was even 50 years ago, because of people like Ravenwolf who were not afraid to rightfully and bravely condemn Christianity at a time when no one else would call out their bullshit.
Tia Marie: Is it really necessary to be such a condescending bitch? Condemn the church leaders who spread those messages. Condemn the groups that invade Pagan gatherings to protest. Condemn the televangelists, the politicians, the Christian nationalists. Why condemn your neighbor who has done you no injury? Does that not make you as prejudiced and bigoted as so many of them?
You know what the church nearest me does? They give away free food. Often. They go to places where people gather, they don’t make needy people come to them. They don’t demand church attendance or an audience for a lecture, they just hand over the food. Shall I condemn them?
YES. By your logic, as long as someone is not mean to you specifically, they are a good person? By your logic, I should condemn the leaders of the religion, but not the individuals that put them in power, keep them in power, and protect them from legal punishment for their abuse of power AND their unlawful actions? That’s ridiculously naive. My dislike for the religious comes from the hateful deity they choose to worship and the concepts their deity has ordered them to perpetuate. You wouldn’t “condemn your neighbor” just because they give you free food, but that same neighbor would kill you for being a non-believer and witch if they thought that’s what their deity wanted (the Bible is VERY clear about witchcraft and how to treat witches). You are too old for me to have to tell you this, but just because someone is nice to you, or does good deeds, that does NOT make them a good person. Even child rapists do volunteer work, so that’s a very flimsy measurement for morality. It’s nice to know your morality is so skewed you can be bought with a few smiles & canned goods. I will not assume that just because someone is nice to me in particular, that makes them a good person. I will, however, come to the educated conclusion that if they are choosing to follow a religion with such an awful figurehead, that they are people who cannot make good choices, and therefore cannot be trusted to know what a good person even looks like (at the very least)
Do you really think that the average Christian is at fault? Do you even know any Christians? Seriously, do you? The fact that you call me “old” tells me all I need to know. You have as much hate in your heart as some Christians do.
I don’t think the God of the Bible is great, personally, but do you really think you yourself are exuding the virtues of the Goddess?
Why are you so angry? Who hurt you?