Posted by Monique Hargrove on 1/11/2015 to
Occult Weekly
One of the more common questions we receive asks about the difference between Wicca and Witches. We have put together this article to help dispel some of the misconceptions out there about Wiccans and what it is they do. A witch can follow many paths, but becoming a Wiccan is a choice to join an ever growing faith. just like someone might decide that they are personally more in line with Buddhist or Christian teachings. As with any faith, there are those who would spread untruths, knowingly or not, simply to seem that they know more than others. With all things, it is best to do your own research and find your own truth.SACRIFICE:
Wicca does not sacrifice animals or babies, no matter what you may have heard. There is no part in any of the Rituals performed in Wicca that requires sacrifice of animals or persons, whether living or dead. The gods of the old wanted the sacrifice of blood in the past but this has changed as they no longer feel the need for blood, nor do they wish to harm any person. Even though many Christians think otherwise, followers of Wicca do not believe in abortion and they do not make use of the fetus for performing any rituals.
CULT OR RELIGION?:
There are also some people who are of the opinion that Wicca is a cult. What they fail to realize is that it is not a cult; it is just a religion like any other. While people claim that there is a king and a queen of Wicca, it is actually a wrong assumption. There is no ruler or papacy of this religion; it consists of various small groups that are commonly referred to as groves or covens. These groups are operated in the traditional way. Each of the group is headed by a priestess and she is assisted by a high priest.
BROOMS:
Irrespective of the whether it is day or night, Wiccans do not fly on brooms. Broom flying is actually one of the customs of the witches and this was carried out for the purpose of blessing the crops in the fields so that they will produce in plenty. However, you need to realize that they do not actually fly on their brooms. They merely ride the brooms like children would ride their stick hobbyhorse.
WICCA'S WITNESSES AND EXCLUSIVITY:
You also need to know that Wicca does not encourage its followers to go and convert 
other people to become Wiccans. This is because this kind of action is considered to be wrong by most of its followers. If you are thinking about becoming a Wiccan but you are wondering whether or not you will have to renounce the religion that you are presently following, then you do not have to worry about renouncing your religion as you can become a Wiccan without giving up your religion.
other people to become Wiccans. This is because this kind of action is considered to be wrong by most of its followers. If you are thinking about becoming a Wiccan but you are wondering whether or not you will have to renounce the religion that you are presently following, then you do not have to worry about renouncing your religion as you can become a Wiccan without giving up your religion. We know that this article only covers a few topics and there are probably many more you have questions about. Since we know this is the case, we offer some suggested reading material to learn more. Firstly, Earth, Air, Fire & Water by Scott Cunningham, and secondly (don't laugh) The Complete Idiot's Guide to Wicca and Witchcraft. Both of these books have a good deal of information that will help you become more knowledgeable and give you some perspective. While there are many books out there that can give insight, we chose these two because they are both presented in a simple and easy to understand format.
Do you know of any good books for beginners? Please share them in the comments section of our blog.
