The other "Law" of Witchcraft is the "THREE-FOLD
LAW OF RETURN". Basically, this is the natural law of "cause
and effect". The Goddess charges us to exercise great care
in all that we, as Witches, do and say and even think. The Threefold
Law takes the notion that "what we reap, we will sow",
a few steps further..in fact, THREE steps further. For what we
do "for good or for ill, shall be returned to us threefold."
In light of this fact, Witches are loath to cause any harm, lest
it be returned to them in spades!!
When we come to really understand the Three-Fold Law and it's
ramifications, we can see that although on the surface, it acts
like a prohibition, it also serves as a source of blessing. Witches
seek to heal and to help all of Life, and when we are working
for "the good of all", it is natural that the "good"
will come to us also. But it falls on us multiplied and empowered..three-fold
is quite an increase no matter what mathematical method you use!
The word "just" is defined as" that which is merited
or deserved." With that definition in mind, you can see why
Witches believe in the exercise of "justice" over "revenge".
We are assured that what is merited by a persons actions will
come to pass. We need only to ask the God and Goddess for "justice
to be done". Since this is in line with natural laws and
the promises of the Ancient Ones, we can rest in the knowledge
that we are asking in a correct manner for the situation to be
taken care of. Then we can release it to them to handle and go
about our business.
"Revenge" on the other hand, is defined as "an
urge to get even" (we've all been there!) or "to inflict
harm in reaction to an insult" (we cannot go THERE! see:Witches
Rede) It is difficult sometimes, especially when our loved ones
have been hurt, to follow the principles outlined here...VERY
difficult. Never the less, that is what we are instructed to do.
It is a matter of trust...trust that the God and the Goddess will
take care of it...trust that the Universal Laws apply to everyone
equally...trust in the Three-Fold Law...and trust in yourself
as a Witch, strong in your beliefs. We all go through deep soul
searching when confronted with this issue.How we decide to respond
tells us a lot about ourselves, what we give lip service to and
what we really believe. It can be a valuable lesson that can change
our life.
"The Great Mother and Father would not have their children
suffer the indignities of oppressors for their sake, for what
is within the hearts of Their children is dear and true to Them.
The Ancient and Mighty Ones shall cause the balance to be made
for those who desecrate the worship of the Lord and Lady, Their
temples, or their Creations" *
have visited our magickal forest.
