REINCARNATION

Wiccans believe in the basic tenet of reincarnation--the soul or "essence" of a human being will pass through many lives before achieving release from the wheel of rebirth. There is a Wiccan theology where a realm exists called Summerland where souls rest, renewing for their next experience on Earth.

Reincarnation can be traced back to ancient Greece and the Roman Mystery cults, where great debates with the philosophers took place. Palingenesis was believed by Pythagoras 6th century BC and Plato 5th century BC. Julius Caesar when invading ancient Briton found that the Druids believed in reincarnation as well. Even the Christian Bible has references to reincarnation...Matthew 17:10-13 and John 9:1-3, lastly Matthew 11:14-15.

This "idea" that people are reborn is seen in many cultures like the Buddhist belief in the Group Soul and collective Karma. Witches with long hereditary bloodlines take the evolution of family souls very seriously. The metaphysical principle of reincarnation is strong among many Pagan families. Wiccans also believe in genetic memories carried within our DNA. Often times vivid dreams can be those of a relative--passing through you during sleep to be remembered.

This transfer of memory is found over and over again in Nature. Scientists have been looking for the key that will easily open these memories for the last twenty years. Steeped in the mysteries of the past, yet deeply rooted to the present, Wicca offers natural solutions to humankind's most pressing questions about where we've come from and where we are going as a race.