The Law of Three

The other "Law" of Witchcraft is the "THREE-FOLD LAW OF RETURN". Basically, this is the natural law of "cause and effect". The Goddess charges us to exercise great care in all that we, as Witches, do and say and even think. The Threefold Law takes the notion that "what we reap, we will sow", a few steps further..in fact, THREE steps further. For what we do "for good or for ill, shall be returned to us threefold." In light of this fact, Witches are loath to cause any harm, lest it be returned to them in spades!!

When we come to really understand the Three-Fold Law and it's ramifications, we can see that although on the surface, it acts like a prohibition, it also serves as a source of blessing. Witches seek to heal and to help all of Life, and when we are working for "the good of all", it is natural that the "good" will come to us also. But it falls on us multiplied and empowered..three-fold is quite an increase no matter what mathematical method you use!

The word "just" is defined as" that which is merited or deserved." With that definition in mind, you can see why Witches believe in the exercise of "justice" over "revenge". We are assured that what is merited by a persons actions will come to pass. We need only to ask the God and Goddess for "justice to be done". Since this is in line with natural laws and the promises of the Ancient Ones, we can rest in the knowledge that we are asking in a correct manner for the situation to be taken care of. Then we can release it to them to handle and go about our business.

"Revenge" on the other hand, is defined as "an urge to get even" (we've all been there!) or "to inflict harm in reaction to an insult" (we cannot go THERE! see: Witches Rede) It is difficult sometimes, especially when our loved ones have been hurt, to follow the principles outlined here...VERY difficult. Never the less, that is what we are instructed to do. It is a matter of trust...trust that the God and the Goddess will take care of it...trust that the Universal Laws apply to everyone equally...trust in the Three-Fold Law...and trust in yourself as a Witch, strong in your beliefs. We all go through deep soul searching when confronted with this issue. How we decide to respond tells us a lot about ourselves, what we give lip service to and what we really believe. It can be a valuable lesson that can change our life.

"The Great Mother and Father would not have their children suffer the indignities of oppressors for their sake, for what is within the hearts of Their children is dear and true to Them. The Ancient and Mighty Ones shall cause the balance to be made for those who desecrate the worship of the Lord and Lady, Their Temples, or their Creations" *

* quote from the "New Wiccan Book of the Law" by Lady Galadriel 1992