Goddess and Gods of the Witches. First Degree

Description

Wiccans worship the sacred as immanent in Nature, often personified as Mother Earth and Father Sky. As polytheists, they may use many other names for Deity. Individuals will often choose Goddesses or Gods from any of the world's pantheons whose stories are particularly inspiring and use those Deities as a focus for personal devotions. Similarly, covens will use particular Deity names as a group focus, and these are often held secret by the groups.It is very important to be aware that Wiccans do not in any way worship or believe in "Satan," "the Devil," or any similar entities. They point out that "Satan" is a symbol of rebellion against and inversion of the Christian and Jewish traditions. Wiccans do not revile the Bible. They simply regard it as one among many of the world's mythic systems, less applicable than some to their core values, but still deserving just as much respect as any of the others.The God: Often referred to as the Horned One or Sky Father. Making the sky masculine, the male aspect. It also insinuates that the God is always watching over us, because he is. In fact, the sky itself. Many different witches have many different beliefs concerning the God.The Goddess: Often referred to as Earth Mother. Making the earth feminine. Giving birth to all life and nurturing it as well. The female aspect.In Wicca, and Paganism in general, each of the Goddess and Gods represents an ideal, a human quality, something we as people can relate to, something to engender our passions. Your choice of Deity is personal. Choose Deity that you are most comfortable with and that you can relate to.In the main part of this lesson you will learn about:Witches' attitudes towards deity.How deity relates to the Wiccan concept of the Great Wheel of the Year.The Goddess and God of Wicca.A Wiccan creation myth.Some goddesses and gods from various pantheons.Continuing on, there is a research project for you to complete.There is also a meditation and a first spell for you to work on.Finally, there is a blessing.Book Outline:AcknowledgementsPrologueWelcomeWiccan Attitudes Towards DeityThe Wheel of the YearThe Divine FeminineThe Divine MasculineThe Gods & Goddesses & a Wiccan MythA Variety of Gods & GoddessesResearch ProjectExercisesEnd BlessingReferenceAbout BWSGlossary of Gods & GoddessesGlossaryReading List