How Witches Honor Words and Meanings

“I need to get the words just right for the spell—yes?” Jessica, a new acquaintance, asked me.

I replied that precision with words will help her accomplish her goal with the spell.

You probably agree that words are important.

I’ve noticed that Wiccans pay close attention to the words “supernatural” and “natural.”

An important point is made in the 3^rd Principle of The 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief as assembled by the American Council of Witches:

We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than that is apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary it is sometimes called “supernatural”, but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potential to all. – 3^rd Principle of The 13 Principles of Wiccan Belief

Wiccans pay attention to the meaning of “supernatural.” They do not feel that magick and spellwork are “supernatural.”

Here is another example of how a definition is important. Recently, Ms. Kennedy Mitchum, 22 and a recent college graduate in Iowa, wrote to the editors at Merriam-Webster to propose that their dictionary reference to “racism” be revised to reflect how systemic racism is in society. The editors have agreed to revise the definition, which had not been changed in decades.

Alex Chambers, an editor at the dictionary, replied and wrote, “…we have concluded that omitting any mention of the systemic aspects of racism promotes a certain viewpoint in itself. … It also does a disservice to readers of all races.”

We, witches, know that words have power. Our words can hurt or heal. It depends on how we use them.

Our words can combine for creating or observing meaning. Our words can be part of a solution.

Blessed Be,
Moonwater