The word “rede” is an old English word meaning advice or counsel. That’s an important distinction. The Rede isn’t a set of commandments—it is wisdom offered for each witch to consider and interpret in their own practice.
Throughout the verses you’ll find references to the phases of the Moon, the Sabbats, working with the elements, respecting magical energy, keeping confidences, and remembering that our actions can affect both ourselves and those around us. It encourages mindfulness rather than perfection.
The final line has become the best known:
“Eight words the Wiccan Rede fulfill: An it harm none, do what ye will.”
While simple on the surface, those words invite thoughtful reflection. They encourage us to pursue our path freely while considering the well-being of others, ourselves, and the natural world.
Whether you’re new to Wicca or have been following the path for years, the Wiccan Rede is a nice reminder that wisdom often comes not from rigid rules, but from living with compassion, balance, and respect.
Wiccan Rede
Bide the Wiccan Laws ye must In Perfect Love and Perfect Trust.
Live an’ let live – Fairly take an’ fairly give.
Cast the Circle thrice about To keep all evil spirits out.
To bind the spell every time – Let the spell be spake in rhyme.
Soft of eye an’ light of touch – Speak little, listen much.
Deosil go by the waxing Moon – Sing and dance the Wiccan rune.
Widdershins go when the Moon doth wane, An’ the Werewolf howls by the dread Wolfsbane.
When the Lady’s Moon is new, Kiss thy hand to Her times two.
When the Moon rides at Her peak Then your heart’s desire seek.
Heed the Northwind’s mighty gale – Lock the door and drop the sail.
When the wind comes from the South, Love will kiss thee on the mouth.
When the wind blows from the East, Expect the new and set the feast.
When the West wind blows o’er thee, Departed spirits restless be.
Nine woods in the Cauldron go – Burn them quick an’ burn them slow.
Elder be ye Lady’s tree – Burn it not or cursed ye’ll be.
When the Wheel begins to turn – Let the Beltane fires burn.
When the Wheel has turned a Yule, Light the Log an’ let Pan rule.
Heed ye flower bush an’ tree – By the Lady Blessèd Be.
Where the rippling waters go Cast a stone an’ truth ye’ll know.
When ye have need, Hearken not to others greed.
With the fool no season spend Or be counted as his friend.
Merry meet an’ merry part – Bright the cheeks an’ warm the heart.
Mind the Threefold Law ye should – Three times bad an’ three times good.
When misfortune is enow, Wear the Blue Star on thy brow.
True in love ever be Unless thy lover’s false to thee.
Eight words ye Wiccan Rede fulfill – An’ it harm none, Do what ye will.