Shamanic/Wiccan

[BearDancing]

I would like to hear peoples views on the differences of Shamanism and Wicca.

I have researched and practiced shamanism for 12 yrs and I am new to Wicca. From what I have read there seems to be many simularities. Different names for dieties maybe but much seems to be the same.

Do Wiccans practice different states of consciousness etc. I now the reverance for nature seems to be the same.

Correct me if I am wrong..it seems that many beginners are focoused on spells and rituals. It seems to me that it would be wise to learn of the different qualities and gifts that plants,rocks,animals possess before using them in rituals.

I am by no means being critical of Wicca, I am asking to learn. I am very impressed by some of the knowledge shared by some individuals in this forum.

[Kiya]

I've been following my path for a matter of months now, and I am aware enough of the power of nature in all forms NOT to try any spell work until I have a clearer idea what I'm doing.

That said, all learning must be put into practice. I've started a few little rituals, and begun calling on the elements, the God and Goddess to help me in my visualisations. I haven't written any spells, though I have done my first bit of candle magick when I read the tarot cards for some folks here.

I think a lot of people want to run before they can walk. The danger is either what they are trying to do won't work, or it will unleash a chain of events that are not beneficial. I'm all for being taught a path, but I have specifically chosen to study as a solitary because I'm not only learning about Wicca, Witchcraft and Paganism, I'm learning me too! If that makes sense.

For example, Kiya is my 'working title' - I'm not ready to find my name yet. When I'm ready, I'll know, and I believe it will be the right name. I'm interested in Runes, but I've yet to master the tarot, so I won't start learning the runes in detail (sure, I'll read a bit about them, just to find out what they are!) until I'm ready to. Same with scrying. Same with most things at the moment!!! I am a newbie, after all!!

So at the moment my biggest task is to watch and listen to the seasons as they pass, and the lunar cycle, and everything that happens during that time. So I won't be ready to move on to another big task until that first Wheel has turned with me on my path. I guess that's part of the reason most coven witches study for a year and a day at least before they are initiated!

Levels of conciousness? IMHO it's extremely important. I meditate daily, and when I read the Tarot cards (well) my state of conciousness is very different to normal.

I'm rambling, but you get the drift!

:sunny: Kiya

[Earth Walker]

I would like to learn more on all Traditions of Shamanism,
particularly those of First Nations Peoples.


To believe what you see is to be deceived.
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Reject all illusions of social harmony.