Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Appreciating Differences

I remember shopping at a local flea market a few years ago looking to buy a book on Jewish culture for my Wiccan friend as a Yule gift. I saw a used book stand and confidently walked up to the saleswoman and said, "Good day! I was wondering if you would happen to have any books on Christmas? I have a friend who wishes to learn more about his Jewish heritage." Of course, after I misspoke I immediately realized my "slip of the tongue." But before I had the chance to correct myself, she very sternly replied, "No, no it's Hanukkah, my de-ah, Hanukkah!" I promptly apologized and we both shared a little chuckle, deservedly so, at my expense.


The friend whom I am referring to is my very dear friend and our long-time solitary group member, Matthew.  When it comes to witches, some of us are what are considered to be a hereditary witch - meaning a witch who can trace his or her bloodline back at least three generations. Some of us are natural witches and some of us are even mixed with another faith.  Such is the case with my friend Matthew. He is a Wiccan; however, he also chooses to acknowledge his Jewish roots.  Traditonally in the Jewish religion, it is the mothers' side of the family which determines the faith of the next generation of children. Even though Matt's mother does not choose follow the Jewish faith, his grandmother did.




It is interesting to note that the six-pointed Jewish Star of David was orginally a Pagan symbol known as the Seal of Solomon. In fact, the menorah, which is also associated with the Jewish religion, is often used by many Wiccans (myself included) during esbat rituals. The main reason for this is because of the number "9" which has long been considered a magickal symbol.*


Although I have been Matt's teacher in Wicca for all these many years, I am now finding myself learning from him as well. To me, one of the most beautiful things about Wicca is its' open-mindedness and willingness to learn from others. It is not solely a matter of education; however, it is also a case of appreciating eachothers' differences - whatever our heritage.


"Shalom lecha, ahavti, my friend, and a Blessed Yule to all!!!


*Reference taken from the book, "The Sabbats" by Edain McCoy

2 comments:

  1. I just don't understand why so many people get hung up on this. Why can't we celebrate our differences instead of using them as points of contention? I just don't get it. What a boring world this would be if we were all the same. I am glad I finally found it in myself (with much help from my friends) to fee myself and allow myself to be just who I am... A Buddhist Witch!

    Love ya!

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  2. You are indeed right, my sister. The only thing I can say to you is that people tend to fear what they do not understand. Personally speaking, I feel that Wicca and Buddhism have many good qualities in common and are a wonderful combination as they do seem to compliment one another beautifully!

    I am very proud of you for having the courage to follow your heart. It is not always a road that is easy to travel!

    Have a vert Merry Yule!

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