Levels, Degrees and Hierarchies, oh my! (priest, rituals, mystic, tradition)

[Granny Beth]

I was wondering what everyone thinks of the idea of hierarchy in wicca/witchcraft?

I personally cringe when anyone says "Oh, you're a witch? What level are you?" I know Gardenerian traditions like their degrees and whatnot (no offence intended ) but I think you should decide for yourself when you feel you have progressed on your spiritual path and not feel the need to assign yourself to a category. It all smacks of "holier than thou" to me. When I was in a coven, I called myself a Priestess because I was the only one who felt comfortable leading the rituals, at the time. I also made the sandwiches. I certainly didn't feel "higher" than everyone else. Its as annoying as when people say "Who made you a witch?" as if you need some sort of qualification!

What are your thoughts?

[michel]

I've only recently realized I have a bit of 'wicca' in me; but as you say, I don't believe in levels; I heal, I meditate to try and find more enlightenment and truth, I don't see where catagories come in..........

[Solon]

Originally Posted by michel

I've only recently realized I have a bit of 'wicca' in me; but as you say, I don't believe in levels; I heal, I meditate to try and find more enlightenment and truth, I don't see where catagories come in..........

LOL, Michel, your a new age Christian mystic, I like the sound of that.

Solon

[Dark_Waltz]

I think it is terrible, why do people always have to feel higher than other people?
There is snobbery in witchcraft though not as much as Christianity but unfortunately it is still there.
I pay them no mind- follow your own path