Essay:Wiccan Rede

an it harm none, do what ye will

Comments

Following the Rede is like following Jesus' exhortation to never sin: it's lovely in theory, but practically impossible in practice. There is no black or white, but shades of gray. The most well-intention action will negatively affect someone somewhere, and the most harmful action will benefit someone somewhere. Extremes are not possible.

So while I would disagree that the Rede means only "harm none needlessly", I would say that following the Rede means doing as much good as you possibly can, and taking the time to think out the ramifications of your actions. It's a goal you're constantly shooting for.

The Rede, the Golden Rule, and the theory of karma are all different versions of the same thing: do unto others as you would have done unto you, because what you do unto others will be done unto you. The Rede goes further by including yourself - do unto yourself as you would do unto others. Far too many people, especially women, are conditioned to treat others better than themselves, and that is unacceptable under the Rede as well. You will get what you feel you deserve.

Wiccans are, for the most part, pacifists. This means a strong defense, but no offense. Wiccans are generally overcareful to examine their actions for harm before doing anything, and are usually more willing to let karma handle a situation without personal intervention so it does not become a vendetta. Unless harm is being done currently to someone helpless, such as a child, and then Wiccans can get downright tribal.

Some people consider the wiccan rede to be a dilution or christianisation of older, less high minded approaches. To quote a local pagan "an it harm none do what ye will but harm me or mine and watch out!"

See Also

• Do what thou wilt (Crowley)