Short answer
In Paganism, witchcraft is the practice of magic, ritual and spellwork, usually carried out in a nature-centered spiritual context. For many Pagan witches it is a form of worship or devotion as well as a craft. However, Paganism and witchcraft are not the same thing: some Pagans do not practice witchcraft, and some witches are not Pagan.
What is Paganism?
“Paganism” or “Neopaganism” is an umbrella term for modern religions that draw inspiration from pre-Christian, Indigenous or nature-based traditions. It includes Wicca, Druidry, Heathenry, Hellenic and Kemetic reconstructionism, and many eclectic paths. There is no single scripture or authority. Common themes include reverence for nature, polytheism or pantheism, and celebration of seasonal cycles.
How witchcraft fits in
Within Paganism, witchcraft is one way of practicing. Pagan witches typically:
- Work with ritual and symbolic action, such as casting a circle.
- Honor one or more deities, ancestors or nature spirits.
- Observe the moon and the eight pagan sabbats.
- Cast spells with focused intention.
- Use tools and symbols, described in witchcraft practices and rituals.
Wicca is the best-known example of a Pagan religion that centers on witchcraft. See Wicca vs witchcraft for the distinction.
Pagans who are not witches, and witches who are not Pagan
- Pagans who don’t practice magic. A Druid or Heathen may focus on community rites, honoring gods or ancestors, or ethics, and may not do spellwork or identify as a witch.
- Witches who aren’t Pagan. Some witches are secular, atheist or follow another religion, and treat witchcraft as a craft or cultural practice. This is accepted in many communities and debated in others.
Origins and history
Modern Pagan witchcraft took shape in the 20th century. In the 1950s, Gerald Gardner presented a witchcraft religion that became Wicca, and other traditions followed. Gardner’s claim that it was a surviving ancient cult is doubted by most historians, though the movement drew on older folklore and magical traditions. For the longer background, including how witchcraft has been viewed historically, see our witchcraft overview. Different practitioner styles are described in types of witches.