"Quite what it is that the Traditionals do I cannot say.
They keep to themselves, and I have never to my knowledge met one..."
- Stewart Farrar, 1971
On these pages you will find information about pre-Gardnerian traditional
Witchcraft. This information was compiled to help provide a starting place for
Seekers to the religion of Witchcraft. The articles are designed as educational material only and are not a
reflection of the household itself, or any of the members of the household's specific
beliefs.
What is a Dedicated Seeker?
A dedicated Seeker is any person who dedicates their
life to the service of the Gods and to the exploration of the placement of the self
in nature through the teaching of the Ancestors. It is the belief of House Shadow
Drake that the most noble path is that of a Seeker. Witches have a teacher to
follow while Seekers must choose their tradition and paths, and then seek it to the
root.
General Information
- Finding a Teacher
A basic overview of what to do and look for when trying to find a
teacher. Discusses what a seeker should look for and the steps that they should
take before entering into an apprenticeship.
- Traditional Witchcraft FAQ
A list of frequently asked questions about the religion of traditional
Witchcraft. Includes comprehensive explanations about the beliefs and practices
held within this religion.
- What Traditional Witchcraft is Not
An explanation of things that you will not find within traditional Witchcraft.
- Witchcraft and Magic
Witchcraft and magic are two different things. Magic is a tool, and Witchcraft is
a religion. This article explains some of the historical evolution into the
confusion between these two terms and why it happened.
Beliefs and Practices
- Ancestors and Gods
A description and brief explanation of the role of the Gods and the Ancestors
within traditional Witchcraft.
- Between the Worlds
Concepts of death and going between the worlds. Information about the otherworld.
- Elemental Correspondences to the Cardinal Directions
Provides information regarding the elemental correspondences and their use within
traditional Witchcraft.
- Festivals and Celebrations
A brief description of the role of festivals and celebrations within traditional
Witchcraft.
- Handfasting and Marriage
A simple discussion of the differences between handfasting and marriage and their purposes.
- Heart in Hand
An explanation of the phrase, "Heart in Hand," and its use within traditional
Witchcraft.
- Homeland
A brief synopsis of the concept of the Homeland within traditional Witchcraft and
why it is so important to the religion.
Definitions and Etymology
- Cultural Terms
A listing of words and terms for a Witch is various cultures.
- Definition of Witchcraft
The definition of the word Witchcraft from three different perspectives.
- Etymology and Linguistics
The etymology of the word Witch in multiple cultures which provides a better
understanding of the concept surrounding the term.
Suggested Reading
- Suggested Reading List
A suggested reading list which includes books which cover some of the basic
concepts and ideas. This reading list was designed as a very basic starting place
for Seekers to the religion of Witchcraft.
