Starting out on your occult and spiritual journey is tremendously exciting. It can also be overwhelming. There’s so much information to wade through, and it can be difficult to spot what is legitimate and what is exploitative. When you’re just starting out, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t normal within the Pagan, witchcraft, and Wicca societies.
I’ve seen a lot of paid “services” that help you find the right deity for you. If you want to try such a thing, go ahead, but picking a deity is an extremely personal choice, and nobody, not even an experienced practitioner, can tell you what’s right for you.
This is just one example of ways some practitioners (or straight-up scammers) are trying to make money off of new witches. The best way to avoid being scammed is to do a lot of research, start your practice slowly and thoughtfully, and look for legitimate mentors with good reputations.
The following are tips to avoid being taken advantage of on your Craft journey.
Those new to paganism and witchcraft should beware of the following common scams and exploitative practices:
• Extremely high-priced courses, mentorships, or initiations that promise access to secret or exclusive information. Wisdom should be shared reasonably.
• Businesses pressuring you to buy many accessories, trappings, or "starter kits" beyond core needs. Never overspend out of perceived obligation.
• Love magic services or binding spells used to manipulate, coerce, or control others unethically. True magic uplifts free will.
• Teachers or covens demanding inappropriate loyalty oaths or favoritism that isolate you from other groups. Avoid cult-like dynamics.
• Services pretending to "initiate" you into a famous lineage or secret society that cannot be verified. Research legitimacy carefully.
• Dubious certifications that hold no recognized value outside a specific business or group but with high fees. Most valid credentials are affordable and standardized.
• Copyrighted material from books, blogs, or other sources sold without clear credit or permission. Ethical sharing matters.
• Purveyors of overpriced crystals, wands, athames, etc., claiming exclusive magical provenance. Verify through other sources.
Trustworthy teachers want to empower you, not limit your journey for profit motives. Seek those who build you up through reasonable mentorship, not unrealistic promises of secrets or powers. An ethical, welcoming pagan community awaits you.
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