Exploring the Origins, Purpose, and Ritual Intent of the Wiccan Rede

A witch at her altar

Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfil: An harm ye none, do what ye will.

The Wiccan Rede is a core element of Wiccan belief, summed up in the phrase, "An it harm none, do what ye will." This simple yet powerful guiding principle acts as a moral compass for practitioners, encouraging actions that avoid harm to others.

The Origins of the Wiccan Rede

The Wiccan Rede emerged in the early 20th century, shaped by key figures in the Wiccan movement. Gerald Gardner, often known as the father of modern Wicca, played a pivotal role in popularising the Rede. He blended folklore, ancient paganism, and ceremonial magic into his teachings, which laid the groundwork for contemporary Wiccan belief.

The wording of the Rede is thought to have roots in earlier writings, including those of Doreen Valiente, a prominent British occultist. Valiente's contributions were significant in forming Wicca's ethical framework. The Rede reflects a mix of ethical ideas from various spiritual paths, focusing on personal responsibility and the connection between all living beings.

While Doreen Valiente popularised the eight-word phrase in the 1960s, she didn't write the Rede in its entirety. Lady Gwen Thompson later published a more extended version, claiming it was passed down from her grandmother, Adriana Porter, but this claim is disputed. Ultimately, the Rede's origins are complex and likely involve a mix of influences, including Gardner's early work and the Law of Thelema (Crowley).

The Law of Thelema, formulated by Aleister Crowley ("Do what thou wilt is the whole of the Law), is, for me, a major candidate for the source of The Rede.

However, as Wicca grew, the Rede became a fundamental part of its belief system. It ve is the law, love under will"), guides practitioners in their moral decisions, emphasising harm reduction and individual freedom, aligning well with the values of nature, self-expression, and spirituality that Wiccans cherish.

There are numerous versions of the Wiccan rede.

Here is a version of that published in the 1970s attributed to Lady Gwen Thompson..

Bide the Wiccan Laws we must in Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.

Live and let live, fairly take and fairly give.

Cast the Circle thrice about To keep the evil spirits out.

To bind the spell every time, Let the spell be spake in rhyme.

Soft of eye and light of touch, Speak but little, listen much.

Deosil go by waxing moon, Chanting out the Witches' Rune.

Widdershins go by waning moon, Chanting out the baneful rune.

When the Lady's moon is new, Kiss thy hand to Her, times two.

When the moon rides at her peak, Then your heart's desire seek.

Heed the North wind's mighty gale, Lock the door and drop the sail.

When the wind comes from the South, Love will kiss thee on the mouth.

When the wind blows from the West, Departed souls will have no rest.

When the wind blows from the East, Expect the new and set the feast.

Nine woods in the cauldron go, Burn them fast and burn them slow.

Elder be the Lady's tree, Burn it not or cursed you'll be.

When the Wheel begins to turn, Let the Beltane fires burn.

When the Wheel has turned to Yule, Light the log, the Horned One rules.

Heed ye Flower, Bush and Tree, By the Lady, Blessed Be.

Where the rippling waters go, Cast a stone and truth you'll know.

When ye have a true need, Hearken not to others' greed.

With a fool no season spend, Lest ye be counted as his friend.

Merry Meet and Merry Part, Bright the cheeks and warm the heart.

Mind the Threefold Law you should, Three times bad and three times good.

When misfortune is enow, Wear the blue star on thy brow.

True in Love ever be, Lest thy lover's false to thee.

Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfil: As Ye Harm None, Do What Ye Will

It's not always clear what the Witches Rune is that is refered to in the poem. Obviously, it is a chant, but what is being chanted?

It could be ...

The "Eko Eko Azarak" Chant:

The phrase, often repeated, is considered a powerful opening phrase in Wiccan rituals. Associated with Gerald Gardner, considered a founder of modern Wicca. 

The complete version includes the repetition of

"Eko, Eko, Azarak, Eko, Eko, Zomelak,

Eko, Eko, Cernunnos, Eko, Eko, Aradia!" 

The Doreen Valiente "Witches' Chant":

This is a poem that invokes the elements (earth, water, air, fire) and tools of the craft (wand, pentacle, sword, chalice). It is used to call upon the powers of nature and deities to aid in a magical working.

A standard version starts with "Darksome night and shining moon, East, then South, then West, then North".

It often includes lines like "By all the powers of land and sea, Be obedient unto me" and "As I do say, 'So mote it be'". 

A more complete version goes...

Darksome night and Shining Moon,

East, then South, then West, then North,

Harken to the Witches’ Rune:

Here come I to call thee forth.

Earth and Water, Air and Fire,

Wand and Pentacle and Sword,

Work ye unto my desire,

Harken ye unto my word.

Cords and Censer, Scourge and Knife,

Powers of the Witches’ blade,

Waken all ye into life,

Come ye as the charm is made:

Queen of Heaven, Queen of Hell,

Horned Hunter of the Night,

Lend your power unto the Spell,

Work my will by Magic Rite.

If the chant is used to reinforce a work already begun, end with this:

By all the power of land and sea,

by all the might of moon and sun,

What is my will,

So mote it be,

What I do say, It shall be done.

The Purpose of the Wiccan Rede

The Wiccan Rede serves several vital purposes within the Wiccan community.

1. Ethical Guidance: At its essence, the Rede offers a clear ethical framework. The phrase "An it harm none" highlights the significance of compassion and encourages Wiccans to consider how their actions affect others. For example, many practitioners consciously choose not to use magic to manipulate others or cause harm, which helps promote a culture of kindness.

   
   

2. Encouragement of Personal Autonomy: The latter part, "do what ye will," empowers individuals to choose their paths. This duality of responsibility and freedom is central to Wiccan philosophy—it enables practitioners to explore their beliefs while staying aware of the impact on those around them.

   
   

3. Fostering Community: By prioritising non-harm, the Rede helps cultivate a sense of belonging within the Wiccan community. This supportive environment allows individuals to express their beliefs without fear of judgment.

   
   
   
   

Ritual Intent and the Wiccan Rede

The Wiccan Rede is more than just a philosophical statement; it is also integral to ritual practices. Many Wiccans weave the Rede into their rituals, ensuring their actions align with the ethical guidelines it sets forth.

Before a ritual, practitioners often reflect on their intentions and the potential consequences. This reflection is vital, allowing them to approach their practice with clarity and responsibility. For instance, a Wiccan preparing for a spell may ask themselves if their desired outcome might hurt someone before proceeding.

Additionally, the Rede acts as protection during rituals. Many believe in the "Threefold Law," which posits that any energy they send out into the universe—be it positive or negative—will return to them threefold. By following the Rede, practitioners strive to ensure that the energy they emit is loving and constructive.

In practice, invoking the Wiccan Rede can take many forms. Some may recite it aloud at the beginning of a ritual, while others might meditate on its meanings. Certain Wiccans even create specific rituals centred around honouring the Rede, reinforcing its vital role in their spiritual lives.

Embracing the Wisdom of the Rede

The Wiccan Rede is a rich and complex principle that lies at the heart of Wiccan belief and practice. Its origins reflect a blend of diverse spiritual traditions, and its purpose guides practitioners through their moral and ethical landscapes. By emphasising non-harm and personal freedom, the Rede nurtures a sense of community and interconnectedness among Wiccans.

Integrating the Wiccan Rede into rituals not only strengthens the ethical foundation of Wicca but also fosters mindfulness and responsibility. As practitioners continue to explore their spirituality, the Rede acts as a reminder of the importance of compassion and respect for all life.

As you reflect on the Wiccan Rede in your practice, think about how its principles can influence your actions and intentions. Allow this wisdom to inspire you to walk your path with integrity and love. It is also worth considering the nature of "will" as expressed in the Rede compared to the "limits' on will as described in The Law of Thelema.

What is WILL?

It certainly isn't willfulness...

Alan /|\