Hereditary Witchcraft

Hereditary Witchcraft is a tradition which is passed down within the family in an unbroken line and hence by hereditary descent. Hereditary Witchcraft Tradition differs from family to family however these Traditions are usually kept secret from others who were not born into the family or those who have married into the family with many believing that only those born and raised as a witch are suitable to be practicing the craft.

Usually in Hereditary Witchcraft the child receives teachings from her mother or father however they may receive teachings from different members of the family such as grandparents or aunts etc. There is usually no initiation process for Hereditary Witchcraft but many families may not teach children until they are of a certain age.

The type of magic practiced by families varies but it is mostly folk magic, folk lore and nature based which differs to ceremonial magic(although some traditions may have ceremonial influences) seen in other Neo-Pagan religions such as Wicca. Many divination techniques such as Tarot and Palmistry are taught down Hereditary Lines.