FAQ: When can one actually call themselves a Wiccan?

FAQ: When can one actually call themselves a Wiccan? Can you only identify as a Wiccan if you are a practicing Wiccan? Can you consider yourself a Wiccan by just liking certain things/beliefs that they do?

Answer: As a Wiccan, I will say Wicca is a religion--and Wiccans tend to do certain stuff. Wiccans tend to honor the Divine in female and male forms. Even if a Wiccan is a solitary, s/he will still pay attention to the Moon. S/he will also be aware of the Wheel of the Year and the changing seasons. We do magic. We recognize ethics in magic as well as in daily life. ... That's sort of an extremely bare bones description...There is a whole lot more to it than just that--but accepting that stuff is the beginning...

I should add that many Wiccans still maintain that in order to identify one's self as a Wiccan you need to be initiated into a Wiccan coven or Wiccan tradition. This position predates all the books of published Wiccan material now available.

A diligent and careful researcher can learn much of the essence about Wicca from numerous published sources.

Yet, some old school folks maintain that doesn't count unless you have been initiated. They also might be really picky about who performs the initiation and lineages. Frankly, I think anyone can always honestly state that s/he is trying to "study Wicca" and seeking an understanding of the Mysteries of the Gods.

FAQ: So does that mean someone can call themselves a Wiccan, or not?

Answer: A mystic would answer, "Yes." My spouse is both a 3rd degree Wiccan and a mystic. He says, "Just to be seeking the Mysteries is the answer. Ask yourself, what more could you need?"

FAQ: What is a Mystic?
Frequently Asked Questions
"Yet Another Wicca..." home page