Contrary to popular belief, witchcraft isn't all about casting curses or making potions, but rather a broad practice that encompasses various disciplines, from natural healing to self-improvement. It's a form of spiritual exploration and the pursuit of wisdom, often ties to the natural world. Nowadays, with the rising popularity of witchcraft in pop-culture, more individuals are seeking to understand this ancient craft.

Witchcraft's history stretches back to the dawn of human civilization, harnessing natural forces for practical outcomes. Historically, witches were revered as seers, healers, and guides of their respective communities. Currently, in an era of digital information and self-discovery, witchcraft has seen a significant resurgence as individuals from all walks of life embark on this spiritual journey. The accessibility of information today is clearly reflected in the rising number of beginner witches who are seeking a comprehensive guide to research this ancient craft.

As a beginner witch, understanding your spiritual and emotional relationship to witchcraft is an essential first step. This requires self-reflection and introspection, arguably the cornerstone of the Crafts practice. Moreover, it's crucial to develop your understanding of the rich history and cultural contexts of witchcraft from around the world. This paints a fuller, richer picture of the practice, allowing for a deeper understanding and appreciation for witchcraft's philosophies and customs.

Researching witchcraft also involves understanding the multitude of branches within it. These various branches and areas of focus range from the well-known Wicca, or nature witchcraft, to various other practices like sea witchcraft, green witchcraft, and kitchen witchcraft. Each branch has its unique traditions, rituals, and symbolism, thus it's vital to spend adequate time studying each to understand which one resonates with you personally.

The practises undertaken by witches are deeply rooted in symbology. Items or symbols often used in witchcraft like crystals, herbs, or tarot cards aren't just pretty or cool. Each of them has spiritual, healing, or protective properties that can enhance your craft. Therefore, extensive research into the meanings and applications of various witchcraft symbols and tools is paramount.

Witchcraft isn't merely an individual journey but also thrives on the connections and mutual support within the witch community. Exploring and connecting with the wide witch community, both locally and globally, is therefore critical. This includes local covens, online witch forums, or even book clubs focused on witchcraft literature. It's through these interactions that beginner witches can gain new insights, learn different practices, and understand the dynamic and evolving nature of modern witchcraft.

Finally, remember that research isn't just about reading and assimilating information. As a practice, witchcraft is experiential and requires active participation. This means including hands-on activities like creating your personal altar, performing simple spells, or meditating with crystals as part of your research process.

However, it is crucial to note that every witch's journey is unique; researchers indicate that there are no set formulas or exact paths to becoming a witch. It's a personal journey based on what feels right for the individual, and therefore it's critical to validate your own experiences and find your own path in witchcraft. It's a complex process akin to unwinding a never-ending thread, making the journey as enlightening as the destination itself.

What are the Top 20 Essential Topics Beginner Witches Should Research On?

As a beginner in witchcraft, it can feel overwhelming knowing where to start with your research. However, understanding the basics is key to advancing in your magical journey. This guide outlines the top 20 fundamental subjects Every novice witch should look into. These range from understanding what witchcraft really is, its history and different forms, to learning about essential tools, symbols, lunar phases, spells, rituals, deities, crystals, herbs, divination methods, magical correspondences and even witchcraft ethics. Delving into these topics provides a strong foundational knowledge necessary to practice witchcraft effectively and responsibly. Now, let us discuss each of these topics in full detail.

1. Understanding Witchcraft: Witchcraft is often misunderstood due to preconceived notions and media portrayal. Beginner Witch Research should always start with understanding what witchcraft truly is, its practices, and its principles, especially Wicca and Paganism, which are popular modern-day practices.

2. Reading Witchcraft History: Knowing the historical perspective of witchcraft can provide a solid base for beginner witches. It includes the historical context of witchcraft from ancient times to the modern era, witch trials, and famous witches in history.

3. Learning Witch Terminology: Common terms related to witchcraft like Wiccan Rede, sabbat, esbat, or athame must be comprehended thoroughly. This helps in communication with other witches and understanding literature and rituals better.

4. Understanding Types of Witchcraft: Witchcraft isn't a single entity. There are different types like sea witches, kitchen witches, green witches, etc. Researching these varying paths can offer better clarity on a suitable path for beginner witches.

5. Decoding Candle Meanings: In witchcraft, candles hold symbolic meanings based on their colors, shapes, and types. Understanding their significance is vital for rituals and spells.

6. Studying Crystals and Gemstones: Each stone carries a unique vibrational energy which can be used for healing, protection, and manifestation. Beginner Witch Research should involve knowing about their properties and uses.

7. Identifying Herbs and Plants: Like crystals, herbs and plants too bear distinct properties and magickal uses. Identify and learn about their powers to utilize them in your craft.

8. Exploring Divination Methods: Divination methods like Tarot, Runes, Pendulum, etc., are useful for seeking guidance and insight. Studying these methods can deepen your magickal practices.

9. Mastering Grounding and Shielding Techniques: Grounding and shielding are fundamental to any witch's practice to preserve and protect their energy. These techniques should be studied and practiced regularly.

10. Understanding Witchcraft Tools: Become familiar with common witchcraft tools like cauldrons, besoms, pentacles, wands, etc., and their uses within the craft.

11. Respecting Elements and Energies: Study the elemental forces (earth, air, fire, water, spirit) and how to work with these energies in your practice.

12. Recognizing Moon Phases: Moon phases hold great significance in witchcraft and influence the power of spells and rituals. Recognize their changes and how to use them.

13. Learning Spell Casting: Undoubtedly, spell casting is a significant part of witchcraft. Learn how to write and cast your own spells, ensuring your intent aligns with your actions.

14. Studying Sabbats and Esbats: These are witch holidays that mark the cycles of the moon and the changing of the seasons. Each has its own significance and rituals associated with it.

15. Honoring Deities: Many witches choose to honor certain deities. Research about various deities from different pantheons and their associations may help you connect with one or more.

16. Learning Protection and Purification: Every witch should know about protection and purification. Learn about protection spells, wards, and how to cleanse your aura and your space.

17. Exploring Witchcraft Ethics: Understand the ethical framework within witchcraft, including the Threefold law and the Wiccan Rede.

18. Embracing Shadow Work: Shadow work, or engaging with your inner shadows, is a valuable practice for personal growth.

19. Finding Witchcraft Community: Whether online or offline, surrounding yourself with like-minded people can be enriching and supportive.

20. Balancing Witchcraft with Daily Life: Finding ways to infuse your daily life with witchcraft, in a non-intrusive and harmonious way, makes practice easier and more enjoyable.

According to a report from Quartz (2017), the witch population has seen an exponential rise, with an estimated 1.5 million witches in the U.S alone, reiterating the necessity of a well-informed beginner's research guide like this.

1.

Q: What is the purpose of this beginner witch guide?

A: The purpose of this guide is to provide basic information and guidelines for those who are new to witchcraft and are interested in exploring it as a lifestyle or a spiritual path.

2.

Q: What are some things that a beginner witch should research?

A: This guide suggests researching 20 different topics, including the history of witchcraft, various types of witches, magical tools, ethics in witchcraft, spellcasting, moon phases, herbs, crystals, and divination methods.

3.

Q: Do I need to study all of the topics listed in the guide?

A: No, the list provides a broad range of subjects you might find interesting. It's completely up to you how deep you want to delve into each topic. Use this guide as a starting point and let your own interests lead you.

4.

Q: Is there a specific order in which I should study these topics?

A: You're free to study these topics in any order you prefer. You might find it helpful to start with understanding the basic concepts of witchcraft and then moving on to the more complex and subjective subjects.

5.

Q: How can I find reliable resources for my research?

A: The guide suggests looking at published books from trusted authors, joining online forums and communities, and attending local workshops or classes if possible. Always cross-reference your information to ensure reliability.

6.

Q: I'm uncertain about ethics in witchcraft. Can you elaborate?

A: Sure. Ethics in witchcraft often refer to the personal moral guidelines one follows when performing spell work or any magical practice. A common principle is the Wiccan Rede, which states, “An it harm none, do what ye will”. Always consider the potential consequences of your actions.

7.

Q: What might I learn from studying different types of witches?

A: Understanding the different types of witches can help you find the path that resonates best with you. It broadens your perspective about the diversity within witchcraft and helps you realize there are different ways to practice.

8.

Q: What kind of magical tools might I need as a beginner?

A: This will depend on your personal practice, but commonly used tools include a Book of Shadows (or grimoire) for recording spells and experiences, an athame (ceremonial knife), a chalice, a wand, and incense for cleansing.

9.

Q: How can I understand spellcasting?

A: Good starting points are to understand the fundamental concepts such as setting an intention, focusing your energy, and understanding the potential consequences of your spell. With practice, your understanding and proficiency will grow.

10.

Q: Can anyone become a witch?

A: Absolutely! Witchcraft is a personal and spiritual journey that anyone can embark upon. Respect for nature and a desire to learn are the only true prerequisites.

Conclusion

Throughout the guide, you've been introduced to crucial areas for research as a beginner witch. The importance of learning about the history of witchcraft, understanding core beliefs, and appreciating the significance of symbols was relayed. Remember, while there are many sources to leverage, revamping your skills by engaging in your own experiential research is also necessary. Magic involves harnessing energy, respecting nature, and connecting with the spiritual realm, therefore seeking knowledge relating to these aspects is invaluable.

To effectively navigate and flourish in the path of witchcraft, your research should encompass the understanding various forms of magic such as candle, herbal, and crystal magic, together with incantations and divination methods like tarot reading and rune casting. Learning about sabbats allows you to understand the Wheel of the Year and the cycles of nature. Familiarizing yourself with various witchcraft traditions allows you to choose a path that resonates with you. More so, engage with the witch community, whether in physical gatherings or online forums, for invaluable insights and to share experiences. Whether you're a solitary witch or part of a coven, you are part of a larger witchcraft community and your journey as a practitioner will require continuous learning and research.