Stregheria

Stregheria is an Italian witchcraft tradition that is often associated with the worship of the goddess Diana and the god Lucifer. It is also known as the Old Religion, La Vecchia Religione, and the Craft of the Wise. This tradition has a rich history and incorporates elements of ancient Italian folklore and mythology.

History of Stregheria

Stregheria has its roots in ancient Etruscan religion and the pre-Roman pagan traditions of Italy. It was later influenced by Christianity, and elements of Catholicism are still present in the tradition today. The word "stregheria" comes from the Italian word "stregha," which means "witch."

In the Middle Ages, those who practiced Stregheria were often persecuted and accused of witchcraft by the Catholic Church. Despite this, the tradition survived and continued to be practiced in secret by families and small communities throughout Italy.

In the 20th century, the tradition was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants and their descendants. Today, there are several different variations of Stregheria being practiced in the United States and other parts of the world.

Beliefs and Practices

Stregheria emphasizes the use of herbs, divination, and folk magic. It is a nature-based religion that celebrates the cycles of the earth and the changing of the seasons. The goddess Diana and the god Lucifer are the primary deities worshipped in Stregheria.

Diana is the goddess of the moon, the hunt, and childbirth. She is often depicted as a beautiful young woman with a bow and arrow. Lucifer, on the other hand, is not the same figure as the devil in Christian mythology. In Stregheria, Lucifer is a god of light and wisdom who brings knowledge and enlightenment to his followers.

Stregheria also incorporates elements of ancient Italian folklore and mythology. For example, the belief in the existence of supernatural beings such as fairies, goblins, and witches is prevalent in the tradition. These beings are often seen as mischievous or malevolent and are sometimes appeased with offerings and rituals.

Herbalism is an important aspect of Stregheria. Practitioners use herbs for healing, protection, and divination. They also use charms and talismans to ward off evil and bring good luck.

Divination is another important practice in Stregheria. Practitioners use various methods such as tarot cards, runes, and scrying to gain insight into the future and make decisions.

Stregheria is a fascinating and complex tradition that has its roots in ancient Italian folklore and mythology. It is a nature-based religion that emphasizes the use of herbs, divination, and folk magic. The worship of the goddess Diana and the god Lucifer is central to the tradition, and elements of Catholicism are also present. Despite being persecuted in the past, Stregheria has survived and continues to be practiced by many today.