The Alexandrian pagan tradition refers to a specific branch of modern pagan witchcraft that was established in England during the 1960s. This tradition is considered to be a form of neo-paganism, which draws inspiration from ancient pagan practices and beliefs. The Alexandrian pagan tradition takes its name from its founder, Alexander Sanders. Sanders, also known as the "King of the Witches," claimed to have been initiated into the Craft by his grandmother at a young age. He went on to develop his own system of witchcraft, which he referred to as Alexandrian Wicca. One of the defining characteristics of the Alexandrian pagan tradition is its emphasis on ceremonial magic and ritual.
One of the defining characteristics of the Alexandrian pagan tradition is its emphasis on ceremonial magic and ritual. Practitioners of this tradition are known to incorporate various magical tools and symbols into their practices, such as athames (ritual knives), wands, and pentacles. Rituals are often performed in a circle, with participants invoking various deities and working with energies to achieve their desired outcomes.
Alexandrian Witchcraft: an Ascent to the Numinous by Sharon Day
Following the decades of controversy that have surrounded the late Alex Sanders, “Ascent to the Numinous” might not at first be the term that springs to mind when considering his heritage and, more specifically, the type of wiccan practice associated with him.
He has been labelled, among other things, a ‘showman’, a ‘plagiariser’, a ‘fascinator’, a ‘teller-of-tall-tales’, usually backed by accounts, purportedly based on personal experience, of his darker side. All, to varying degrees may well contain some element of truth.
Less common or at least less public are the innumerable accounts of his unbridled generosity; his knack of diverting unwanted attention from those loyal to him; and, most important of all perhaps, his intuitive grasp of the Mysteries, not to mention his ability to impart what he learned to his students and, through them, those initiates who to this day yearn to experience them.
Thanks to him, what today is known as Alexandrian witchcraft, its name associated with his own, was adapted – without ever betraying – those wiccan traditions that Gerald Gardner and others did so much to revive. By doing it, he fostered an approach that was at once both contemporary and fully respectful of the past, mindful of those traditions which all witches, irrespective of label, cherish and keep alive to this day.
The presenter will expand on these themes in her discourse.
Sharon Day Bio
American by birth and British by marriage, Sharon’s academic career included one year in Japan as an exchange student in 1980. She would return there, having graduated from law school in New York City in 1992, with her husband, also a lawyer, when he took up a post in Tokyo years later.
After repatriating to London in 1997, Sharon felt drawn to esotericism and the occult, subsequently discovering what she felt was a vocation within Alexandrian witchcraft. Her search for suitable training and practical experience took her from London to Australia, the United States, and finally back to London, where she became the personal student of Maxine Sanders, co-founder of the Alexandrian Tradition.
Today, she leads the Coven of the Stag King in London under the eldership – and discreet guidance- of Maxine.
After repatriating to London in 1997, Sharon felt drawn to esotericism and the occult, subsequently discovering what she felt was a vocation within Alexandrian witchcraft. Her search for suitable training and practical experience took her from London to Australia, the United States, and finally back to London, where she became the personal student of Maxine Sanders, co-founder of the Alexandrian Tradition.
The Alexandrian pagan tradition also places a strong emphasis on the worship of a Horned God and a Triple Goddess. The Horned God represents the male aspect of divinity, often associated with fertility, the hunt, and the cycle of life and death. The Triple Goddess represents the female aspect of divinity, often associated with motherhood, maidenhood, and cronehood. These deities are often invoked during rituals and seen as sources of power and guidance. Alexandrian paganism also incorporates elements of ceremonial magic and occultism. Many practitioners study and work with various magical systems, such as astrology, tarot, and divination. The tradition places a strong emphasis on personal transformation and spiritual development, with its practitioners often engaging in regular meditation, spell-casting, and energy work. Overall, the Alexandrian pagan tradition is a modern expression of ancient pagan beliefs and practices. Drawing inspiration from various sources, it combines ceremonial magic, ritual, and the worship of deities to create a unique and vibrant form of witchcraft..
Reviews for "Cultural Appropriation in the Alexandrian Pagan Tradition: Navigating a Controversial Topic"
- Jane - 1/5 stars - I found the Alexandrian pagan tradition to be extremely disappointing. It seemed to lack depth and substance, and there was a heavy emphasis on outdated rituals and practices. I was looking for a spiritual path that resonated with me, but unfortunately, this tradition just didn't do it for me. I would not recommend it to others who are seeking a meaningful and fulfilling pagan practice.
- John - 2/5 stars - I had high expectations for the Alexandrian pagan tradition, but I was ultimately let down. The teachings and practices felt too rigid and dogmatic, leaving little room for personal interpretation or growth. I was looking for a tradition that allowed for more flexibility and adaptability, but unfortunately, the Alexandrian tradition did not meet those needs. I would not recommend it to anyone who is seeking a pagan practice that allows for individuality and creativity.
- Sarah - 1/5 stars - The Alexandrian pagan tradition left a lot to be desired for me. It felt outdated and rather exclusive, with a focus on hierarchy and secrecy. I was hoping for a more inclusive and modern approach to paganism, but this tradition fell short. I would not recommend it to others who are looking for a pagan path that embraces diversity and openness.
- Mark - 2/5 stars - The Alexandrian pagan tradition did not resonate with me at all. I found the rituals and practices to be overly complex and rigid, leaving little room for personal connection and exploration. I was hoping for a more intuitive and experiential approach, but unfortunately, this tradition did not provide that. I would not recommend it to others who are seeking a pagan practice that emphasizes personal growth and self-discovery.