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There is much debate about what constitutes ‘Witchcraft’ and ‘Wicca.’ There are just as many debates and theories regarding the differences between a ‘Witch’ and a ‘Wiccan’. The truth is, there is no definitive answer. There are many who would claim that one differs with the other for this reason or that reason. There are those who offer explanations and extol these to be the absolute definition. However, as with the real origins of Witchcraft itself, the absolute truth lies somewhere in a long lost time. There are many accomplished Witches and Pagans who have made extensive studies into this perplexity over many years, and the general consensus seems to be that there are no definite, positive distinctions between one or the other. There is some compelling evidence that the word ‘Wicca’ (And its derivatives) originates from the Anglo-Saxon ere and language. (An old English word for Witchcraft was ‘Wiccacraeft’) This may be the case in fact and therefore the word ‘Wicca’ (and its derivatives) has an historical base in fact and usage of the English language. However, it begs the question what did ‘Wiccans’ call themselves before Saxon times? Witches? The word Witch (and its derivatives) all have their origins in the word ‘wit,’ which loosely means knowledge. The The Gathering Of Sherwood does not wish to add further confusion to this ongoing debate, but we offer the following explanation for consideration as plausible.
For many social, political, religious and historical reasons; the words ‘Witch’ and ‘Witchcraft’ have come to be associated with negative connotations by the general populous of many societies. Most of this negativity has been laid at the doorstep of Witches by those who sought to impose their singular religious beliefs upon this very same populous. Therefore, the words ‘Witch’ and ‘Witchcraft’ are still quite synonymous with the devil and wickedness for many people. The fact that Pagan Witches are not Christians, do not hold to the Christian philosophy, and therefore do not even believe in the devil; conveniently escapes them for the most part. However, in these more enlightened times where people now have access to historical records and the truth and the facts; Paganism and Witchcraft are being viewed with a new reality. In fact, it is now one of the fastest growing spiritual paths in the world!
Before the emergence of Gardnerian Wicca, (Founded by Gerald Gardner in the 1930’s) the word ‘Wicca’ (And its derivatives) had fallen into general and understandable disuse. The words existed at that time, of course, (Another old English word for practicing Witchcraft was Wiccian.) but their resurgence into popular use is - we suggest - possibly because of Gerald Gardner and the founding of the Wicca Tradition. The Gathering Of Sherwood is not Gardnerian in any aspect, but we do recognise the enormous contribution this man has made. If we accept that Gardnerian Wicca and its widespread growth is one possible explanation for the popular re-emergence of the term ‘Wicca,’ it is not difficult to appreciate that this term has also become accepted as a new age, new image, new word; for a new ere in Witchcraft. ‘Wicca’ - Gardnerian or not - falls much softer on the ears than ‘Witchcraft’. For some it is easier to admit to association with ‘Wicca’ - than it is with Witchcraft! It is also interesting to note that some people now use the term ‘Wicca’ to define their spiritual beliefs as being a natural Earth based religion. They distinguish the word ‘Wicca’ as meaning ‘a religion’. (And sometimes even passionately disassociate this entirely from Witchcraft.) The fact is, the two are inseparable. How ever contemporary, new age or earthy ‘Wicca’ may sound, its origins and meanings fall squarely in the same traditions and practices as Witches and Witchcraft. (but for some it sounds more socially acceptable to say: “I’m a Wiccan” - rather than, “I’m a Witch!”
So, what are the differences between ‘Witchcraft’ and ‘Wicca’? Historically, none! Contemporarily, well, not that much really. The meaning of the word Wicca has been bent this way and that to suit the needs of some who now use it. One may consider these distinctions as a very broad and general guide. 1) ‘Wicca’ has become a contemporarily accepted word (A modern alternative) which has a much older predecessor. 2) In popular culture the word ‘Wicca’ has less of the stigma which is still somewhat attached to the word ‘Witchcraft’ and is therefore more socially acceptable. 3) ‘Wiccans’ often belong to circles or groups which are generally more overt in nature - ‘Witches’ tend to be more solitary or belong to covens. However, we stress this is a generalisation. For the record, The Gathering Of Sherwood is a gathering of Pagan Witches. The tradition we follow is that of the Woodwitch, and we actively practice Witchcraft as a spiritual and magical path.