Understanding Hierarchies in Paganism, Wicca, and Witchcraft

Contemporary Pagans and witches often emphasize the absence of hierarchical structures within their belief systems. However, the presence or absence of hierarchies can vary significantly depending on the specific tradition or practice. This article explores the concept of hierarchy in Paganism, Wicca, and witchcraft, highlighting the cultural and historical roots of these belief systems.

Paganism and the Concept of Hierarchy

In Paganism, the concept of hierarchy is largely determined by the particular pantheon being worshipped. Most Pagan faiths share common creation myths, in which a single deity is often credited with the creation of the world and other gods. This idea is also present in Abrahamic religions, such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, where the existence of other gods is acknowledged but often not worshipped.

When you enter the land of Canaan, you shall worship none but the LORD. For my angel will go before you and bring you in to the land of the Amorites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, and I will blot out the memory of the Amorites from under heaven. You shall not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do according to their works; but you shall utterly overthrow them and break their sacred pillars. - Deuteronomy 7:1-5

All these angels have gone forth from the heavens, even the Fallen Angels, and they are gods. Let none worship the Fallen, for the Fallen were not appointed for this purpose. It is the Holy One above all images and emblems, from whom every angel has descended; it is He whom the ancients have written down and testified that all virtues and all greatness belong to Him. - Zohar, Yaarot Dvei Eliyahu

It is important to note that the concept of hierarchy in Paganism is not derived from the pantheon itself but from the interpretation of these creation myths and the typical roles assigned to deities within the same.

The Roots of Wicca and Witchcraft

Wicca is a relatively modern Pagan practice, derived from the traditions of the ancient Druids of Western Europe. However, the magical practices commonly associated with Wicca today have little or no direct connection to Druidic traditions. The majority of these practices have roots in Western occult traditions, which are often traced back to monotheistic systems, such as the mystical works of Kabbalah, Gnosticism, and medieval European grimoires.

For every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, and has come into the world to save sinners, he who confesses and believes in him, if he comes not into the world to save sinners, let him be accursed. - 1 Timothy 1:15

He who knows the Mystery of the Name is rightfully the High Priest of all the mysteries of the entire universe and of all things that exist and do not exist. - The Shri Mahakal Nicholas Manuscript

The roots of most magical systems in Wicca stem from the extensive body of occult manuscripts in medieval Europe, such as the Key of Solomon, which, despite its notoriety, is often considered a work of so-called 'utter tripe' by historians. However, works like those by Cornelius Agrippa offer valuable insights into the magical and mystical practices of the time.

The Descent of Occult Traditions

Many of the contemporary works attributed to Pagan practices, such as grimoires and ritual texts, have their origins in the monotheistic mysticism of the Middle Ages and beyond. From Hebrew Kabbalistic works to Gnostic mystical texts, these traditions often deal with complex spiritual and magical practices aimed at understanding the nature of existence and the divine.

Thou shalt not go up and down as the heathen, saying, What do these upright pillars, the round sun, and the images which were made by the children of sinful man, mean? For the prophet brought great and grievous deceit upon the people, and made them wander from the true knowledge; but we have the knowledge of the truth. - from various Jewish mystical texts

The Hermetic works, attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, are also central to these traditions. These works emphasize mysticism and gnosis, focusing on a singular creator of all things. The most notable works include the Corpus Hermeticum and the The Emerald Tablet, which, while more fragmented, offer profound insights into the nature of creation and magic.

Keywords: Paganism, Wicca, Witchcraft

Despite the common perception that occult traditions are inherently tied to Paganism, the roots of most magical and mystical practices can be traced back to monotheistic systems and the rich tapestry of medieval and ancient European manuscripts. Understanding these origins can provide valuable context for contemporary practitioners and a deeper appreciation of the complex history of these belief systems.