The Wiccan Threefold Law is a central ethical principle followed by many modern Wiccans. It states that whatever energy or actions one puts out into the world, whether positive or negative, will be returned to them threefold. This principle is essentially a belief in karma, in which one's actions have consequences that come back to them in equal measure. The Threefold Law serves as a guide for Wiccans to cultivate a moral and ethical lifestyle. It encourages individuals to be mindful of their thoughts, words, and actions, as they will have repercussions. Advocates of the Threefold Law believe that practicing kindness, compassion, and love will bring positive energy and blessings into one's life.

The Rule of Three

Patti Wigington is a pagan author, educator, and licensed clergy. She is the author of Daily Spellbook for the Good Witch, Wicca Practical Magic and The Daily Spell Journal.

Many new Wiccans, and plenty of non-Wiccan Pagans, are initiated with the cautionary words from their elders, "Ever mind the Rule of Three!" This warning is explained to mean that no matter what you do magically, there's a giant Cosmic Force that will make sure your deeds are revisited upon you threefold. It's universally guaranteed, some people claim, which is why you better not EVER perform any harmful magic. or at least, that's what they tell you.

However, this is one of the most highly contested theories in modern Paganism. Is the Rule of Three real, or is it just something made up by experienced Wiccans to scare the "newbies" into submission?

There are several different schools of thought on the Rule of Three. Some people will tell you in no uncertain terms that it's bunk, and that the Threefold Law is not a law at all, but just a guideline used to keep people on the straight and narrow. Other groups swear by it.

Advocates of the Threefold Law believe that practicing kindness, compassion, and love will bring positive energy and blessings into one's life. Conversely, engaging in harmful or negative actions can result in negative energy returning to the individual. This understanding of the Threefold Law encourages Wiccans to consider the impact of their choices and to strive for harmony and balance in their interactions with others and the natural world.

Background and Origins of the Threefold Law

The Rule of Three, also called the Law of Threefold Return, is a caveat given to newly initiated witches in some magical traditions, primarily NeoWiccan ones. The purpose is a cautionary one. It keeps people who have just discovered Wicca from thinking they have Magical Super Powers. It also, if heeded, keeps folks from performing negative magic without putting some serious thought into the consequences.

An early incarnation of the Rule of Three appeared in Gerald Gardner's novel, High Magic's Aid, in the form of "Mark well, when thou receivest good, so equally art bound to return good threefold." It later appeared as a poem published in a magazine back in 1975. Later this evolved into the notion among new witches that there is a spiritual law in effect that everything you do comes back to you. In theory, it's not a bad concept. After all, if you surround yourself with good things, good things should come back to you. Filling your life with negativity will often bring similar unpleasantness into your life. However, does this really mean there's a karmic law in effect? And why the number three–why not ten or five or 42?

It's important to note that there are many Pagan traditions that do not adhere to this guideline at all.

The Threefold Law is often interpreted as a warning against practicing harmful magic or using one's spiritual powers with malicious intent. This principle reinforces the idea that magic, like any other tool, can be used for both positive and negative purposes and that intention matters. It is important to note that interpretations and application of the Threefold Law can vary among different Wiccan traditions and individuals. While some may view it as a literal law of the universe, others may see it as a guideline or moral philosophy. Regardless of the interpretation, the Threefold Law encourages Wiccans to be conscious of the consequences of their actions and to strive for harmony and balance in their lives..

Reviews for "Strengthening Your Magickal Practice with the Wiccan Threefold Law"

1. Laura - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with the Wiccan threefold law. I found it to be too restrictive and limiting. I don't think it's fair that I have to constantly worry about the consequences of my actions coming back to me three times over. It takes away my ability to make mistakes and learn from them. I prefer a more forgiving and flexible belief system that allows for personal growth without the constant fear of cosmic retribution.

2. Mark - 1/5 stars - The Wiccan threefold law is just nonsense in my opinion. It's based on this arbitrary idea that every action we take will be returned to us three times over, whether it's positive or negative. This kind of thinking lacks critical reasoning and scientific basis. It's nothing more than a way to invoke fear and control people's behavior. I prefer a belief system that encourages critical thinking and personal responsibility rather than relying on mythical consequences.

3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - While I respect the Wiccan threefold law as a moral guideline, I find it to be overly simplistic and unrealistic. Life is not always black and white, and actions often have complex consequences that cannot be neatly quantified. The idea that every action will come back to us three times over doesn't align with my personal experiences and beliefs. I prefer to live by a more nuanced and flexible moral code that allows for individual circumstances and growth.

4. Chris - 3/5 stars - The Wiccan threefold law seems like a good concept in theory, but in practice, it can be quite challenging to apply. While I appreciate the idea of karma and being mindful of my actions, I find that the strict threefold return can feel stifling at times. It's unrealistic to expect perfect balance in every aspect of life, and this law fails to account for the complexity of human existence. I acknowledge its value as a moral compass, but I prefer a more adaptable belief system that allows for individual growth and learning.

Navigating the Grey Areas of the Wiccan Threefold Law