The Crone Witch Archetype as a Source of Inspiration and Guidance

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A crone witch is a term often used in folklore and mythology to describe an elderly woman who practices witchcraft or magic. The word "crone" comes from the Old English word "crāwa," meaning "wise woman" or "hag." In many cultures, the crone witch is seen as a symbol of wisdom, strength, and spiritual power. The crone witch is often depicted as an old, wrinkled woman with wild hair and a crooked back. She is usually associated with dark and mysterious powers, capable of casting spells, brewing potions, and communing with spirits. The crone witch is often portrayed as a solitary figure, living on the outskirts of society and possessing ancient knowledge.


The meaning of a Crone today: The modern Crone is a healthy, vibrant older woman who has the wisdom of a lifetime of adventures and experiences. She has done everything that society has expected of her and is now at a stage in life where she has gained enough confidence to step fully into her own power and finally imagine, create and fulfill her wildest desires. She is sovereign unto herself and her status in society is hers to decide.

This elder woman was viewed as a fount of wisdom, law, healing skills, and moral leadership; her presence and leadership were treasured at every significant tribal ceremony and at each personal occasion from birth to death. The ancient crone archetype strengthens our belief and confidence in age-accumulated knowledge, insights and intuitions enabling women to stand up for their rights.

What is a crone witch

The crone witch is often portrayed as a solitary figure, living on the outskirts of society and possessing ancient knowledge. Throughout history, the crone witch has been both revered and feared. She is often seen as a wise healer, capable of curing ailments and providing guidance.

What Is A Crone?

It used to be, if you called a woman a witch, a hag or a crone, you were referring to her in a derogatory way.

Today, search the word “witch” on Instagram and hundreds of pages will come up. Being a witch has become quite trendy. The term has come out of the dark ages, then you would be burned at the stake for just being accused of being a witch, to today, where many females identify as one. The word “witch” has evolved and has taken it’s place in our modern lexicon as a lifestyle choice.

Hag is a word still in need of a make over. No amount of spin is going to sway a modern woman to use this particular term to describe herself in a positive way. Not yet at any rate.

But the word “crone” is evolving into a empowering term for an older woman. With one of the largest demographics in history – the baby boomers – all past 55 years of age now, there is a growing movement that embraces the archetypal power of the Crone.

So what is a Crone?

In the simplest of terms: A Crone is a post-menopausal woman. No longer able to bear children.

The traditional meaning: In ancient times, the Crone was an older woman who enjoyed a special, revered status. This elder woman was viewed as a fount of wisdom, law, healing skills, and moral leadership; her presence and leadership were treasured at every significant tribal ceremony and at each personal occasion from birth to death.*

The meaning of a Crone today: The modern Crone is a healthy, vibrant older woman who has the wisdom of a lifetime of adventures and experiences. She has done everything that society has expected of her and is now at a stage in life where she has gained enough confidence to step fully into her own power and finally imagine, create and fulfill her wildest desires. She is sovereign unto herself and her status in society is hers to decide.

*Traditional meaning taken from cronecouncil.org

Anya Silverman returned to school at the age of 55 to study women’s spirituality, and received her MA degree from The New College of California. Her thesis was titled “Metamorphosis Of The Crone, How This Ancient Symbol Can Empower Older Women Today.” She is now on the board of Crones Counsel. She can be reached at [email protected].
What is a crone witch

However, her powers can also be seen as dangerous and malevolent, capable of bringing misfortune or harm to those who cross her path. In modern times, the image of the crone witch has been reinterpreted and reclaimed by feminist and pagan movements. The crone witch is seen as a symbol of female empowerment and spiritual wisdom. She represents the stages of a woman's life, with the crone stage being a time of wisdom, experience, and self-acceptance. Overall, the crone witch is a complex and multifaceted figure. She embodies both the light and dark aspects of witchcraft, representing the duality of life and the power of the feminine. Whether feared or revered, the crone witch holds a significant place in folklore and mythology, serving as a reminder of the deep connection between women, magic, and the mysteries of the universe..

Reviews for "Crone Witches and the Power of Intuition"

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3. Emily - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "What is a crone witch," but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The pacing was off, with certain parts dragging on while others felt rushed. The world-building was also weak, leaving me with a lack of understanding of the magical system and the overall setting. I wanted to be transported into a captivating and immersive world, but this book failed to deliver. Additionally, the ending felt unsatisfying and left many loose ends. Overall, it was a disappointing read.

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