The Council of American Witches (1974)

Overview

The American Council of Witches, alternatively known as the Council of American Witches, was a transient yet influential assembly established in 1973. This council, comprising around seventy-three individuals from various Pagan and Witchcraft traditions, convened briefly before disbanding in 1974. Despite its short existence, the council formulated a set of principles that sought to unify the diverse traditions represented within its membership.

Formation and Dissolution

The council was founded on the premise of unity and shared understanding among different Pagan and Witchcraft communities. Members collaborated to draft a foundational document expressing core principles shared across their traditions. Shortly after achieving this goal, the council disbanded, leaving a lasting impact on modern Neopaganism.

The Thirteen Principles of Wiccan Belief

In April 1974, the council drafted a seminal document in the Wiccan and Neopagan communities: the Thirteen Principles of Wiccan Belief. These principles continue to guide many practitioners:

  1. We practice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the Moon and seasonal cycles.
  2. We recognize our responsibility toward the environment and seek to live in harmony with Nature.
  3. We acknowledge a depth of power greater than the average person perceives, yet see it as part of natural potential.
  4. We conceive of the Creative Power in the universe as manifesting through polarity—masculine and feminine.
  5. We recognize both outer and inner worlds and their interaction as the basis for paranormal and magickal practices.
  6. We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy but honor those who share wisdom and leadership.
  7. We see religion, magick, and wisdom-in-living as united within Witchcraft.
  8. Calling oneself "Witch" does not make one a Witch—study, practice, and wisdom are necessary.
  9. We affirm the fulfillment of life and personal evolution as the purpose of existence.
  10. We do not hold animosity toward other religions unless they seek to suppress freedom of belief.
  11. We are not threatened by historical debates on Witchcraft’s origins; we focus on the present and future.
  12. We reject absolute evil and do not worship "Satan" or seek power through harm.
  13. We believe in seeking within Nature that which contributes to our health and well-being.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

The principles set forth by the American Council of Witches in 1974 remain a guiding light for many in the Wiccan and Neopagan communities. They reflect the council’s brief existence but serve as enduring guidelines that celebrate unity, ethics, and diversity within these spiritual paths.

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