Learned or Hereditary Witchcraft?

I got a very interesting question from Jared who wants to know:

Which is better Hereditary Witchcraft or learning to become a witch on your own?

Hi Jared! This is the age old debate; something I have been debating for over 8 years. Let me share my thoughts on each and then what I believe.

Through Birth & Familial Lineage

Familial legacy, is so fascinating, I ran a popular Wiccan Facebook group, long before Facebook became what it is today. So many people posted that they were a hereditary witch, of course there was no way to verify their statements but it's interesting just how many could be telling the truth.

Some say that the witch blood can only be passed down through generation to generation and anyone else who can't immediately identify a witch in their family isn't a true witch.

So witch power; psychic abilities, connection to the natural world, paranormal abilities, etc. Can indeed be passed down from parent to sibling.

Through an Inner Calling

Some say that anyone can be witch all they need is to hear the inner calling in their spirit and they can become a witch.

This is done through personal study, finding a coven or a mentor to teach the ways of a witch.

I often think of this as a calling from the divine Goddess & God.

I recently read a book called "The Flame in the Cauldron" by Orion Foxwood. This book talks about the witch blood or the deep calling within a person to being a witch. I found it very interesting his thoughts on how there's always been a need for witches throughout history. Magickal people who help keep the world in balance, how this is a deep calling that may or may not be sparked through familial ties.

What do I believe?

I believe in both honestly. I do not believe that one is more potent or more powerful than the other. Of course there are benefits of being raised in a family that nurtures your inner witch, however, just like in any other skill in life just because your parents are doctors doesn't mean you have the ability to be a brain surgeon.

You have to study, practice, hone your skills to become a true witch.