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Articles listed in this section were contributed by members of the wider community and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of House Shadow Drake.

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Misconceptions Within Neo-Paganism





There are many myths and stereotypes held within Neo-Paganism and Wicca. Often these myths are claimed by many as absolute truths. These pages seek to bring many of these myths and inaccuracies to light and provide information regarding their origin. Also included is information regarding the origin of Wicca beginning with Gerald Gardner and how he started the religion.

Even Scott Cunningham, a popular Wiccan author, felt that, "Wicca should be stripped of its quasi-historical and mythological trappings and presented to the public as a modern religion sprung from primeval concepts."

The Council of American Witches also states in their eleventh principle: "As American Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present and our future."

With these things in mind, let us now take a look at some of the more widespread myths and misconceptions held within the Wiccan religion.

If you are not familiar with Wicca or Neo-Paganism, then these pages will most likely not make very much sense to you as they are intended for those who are already knowledgeable concerning these religious practices.

  • 25,000 Year Old Religion
  • Using historical and archaeological fact, this essay demonstrates how Wicca is not a 25,000 religion as is popularly claimed today within Neo-Paganism and most books which are written on the subject of Neo-Pagan religion.

  • Book of Shadows
  • A brief article explaining why and how Gardner's Book of Shadows was created and the reasons why it could never have been from a family tradition as he claimed.

  • Burning Times
  • A rather interesting article which shows the creation of the term "Burning Times" by Mary Daly and how this feminist term was integrated into popular Neo-Pagan culture through the writings of Starhawk.

  • Charms
  • A holistic definition of the term charm and an explanation of how it differs from the popular concepts associated with the word.

  • Cowan
  • A definition and historical explanation of the use of the term cowan. To put it simply, all of those who claim to be self-initiated are considered to be cowans. Here you can find out why.

  • Karma
  • This essay attempts to explain the true definition of karma. You will find the concepts typically associated with karma are completely different from the actual definition and beliefs that surround the word.

  • Marija Gimbutas
  • The effects of Marija Gimbutas on Neo-Paganism and a criticism of her theories regarding those supposedly peace loving Goddess-worshipers of the Neolithic period.

  • Sabbats
  • A quick overview of some of the simple misconceptions held about the Neo-Pagan sabbats - including names, and celebrations which take place during those times.










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