How to Deal with Misconceptions About Wicca

By eHow Culture & Society Editor

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Many people don't understand the basic philosophy behind Wicca, and these misconceptions can breed fear and bias. Follow these steps to learn how to soothe their concerns.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step1

Explain that Wicca isn't anti-Christian. As difficult as it is to make a zealot Christian understand this, it's one of their major misconceptions about Wicca. Assure your attacker you respect the teachings of Jesus and see similarities between Christian moral values and your beliefs.

Step2

Assure them that you don't worship the Devil. Satanism is one of the most common misconceptions about Wicca. Explain that Satan isn't even a part of Wiccan beliefs and Wiccans abhor evil just as much as people of other religions. Explain that the misconception came from the god Pan and has nothing to do with the Wiccan god.

Step3

Address the topic of sacrifice. It's one of the most unpleasant misconceptions to deal with because the idea is so ridiculous. Resist the temptation to laugh. Calmly explain that as a nature-based religion, Wicca has respect for all living things, both animals and human beings.

Step4

Assure them you don't engage in perverted sexual practices. Explain that sex isn't exploited in Wicca but Wiccans don't consider it wrong when done responsibly. Make them understand that Wiccans are no more promiscuous than anyone else.

Step5

Quote the Threefold Law to your attackers and emphasize that black magic isn't a part of Wicca. Ask them if they believe that doing evil causes evil to be done unto them. Explain that magic is a form of meditation. Find published sources that show creative visualization and meditation are beneficial to your health.

Tips & Warnings

Use the terms "Wicca" and "Wiccan" instead of "witchcraft" and "witch." Some people like the "shock" effect of these words, but they only strengthen misconceptions and make your life harder.
Avoid getting into arguments about the existence of magic with non-Wiccans. Save those philosophical discussions for like-minded people.