Some people have the idea that one must be initiated in order to be a real witch. This is a misunderstanding. You may need to go through an initiation to become a recognized member of a particular tradition or coven, but you don’t need an initiation to be a witch.

Witchcraft is a practice, and no one has rights to it. Anyone can practice it if they have the desire to learn. Witchcraft isn’t a religion or group, so there’s no membership process. It’s like being a singer or learning to crochet. The information is out in the world regarding how to do it, so if you have an interest, the time, and the dedication, you can become proficient through self-teaching.

Some believe that a witch or Pagan can perform a self-initiation rite, but many of them find that rather meaningless. It really only serves as a show to yourself that you’re committed to your path. Beyond that it doesn’t accomplish anything.

It’s worth noting that some groups may try to lure members by claiming to have secret knowledge or hidden truths about magick. Be wary of such claims. It’s possible that it’s true, but unlikely. Pagans don’t recruit, so if someone is offering you the key to great secrets if only you join, you may be looking at a cult or scam artist.

*Disclaimer: I no longer practice Paganism, but I’ve left these Pagan Myths articles active because I believe they’re still valuable in helping people to understand Paganism and reduce negative stereotypes.*

Briana Blair

Briana Blair is an author and artisan. She has published more then 30 books and thousands of articles across multiple sites. After practicing Paganism and witchcraft for 25 years, she's now on a journey as an atheist and skeptic. She's eclectic, unpredictable, and always evolving. Facebook - Twitter