Consent and Manipulation in Spellwork

General Discussion
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Let’s talk about something that stirs a lot of debate in witchcraft — consent and manipulation in spellwork.

When does influence become interference?

Every spell we cast sends energy outward.

You can’t light a candle for love or protection without affecting the web around you.

The question isn’t if it touches others — it’s how.

Some witches say any spell involving another person without permission crosses a line.

Others believe intention matters — that magick fueled by love or justice can be ethical.

But here’s the truth: even good intentions can cross into control.

Casting to make someone love you, forgive you, or return to you? That’s not connection — that’s direction.

And when you start believing your truth is the only truth, you edge toward the very control you meant to guard against.

Protection magick, though — that’s different. Setting boundaries, banishing harm, or shielding your energy isn’t manipulation. It’s self-respect in action.

So before casting, ask yourself:
— Is this mine to do?
— Am I respecting their choice?
— And am I ready for what ripples back?

Consent isn’t just a rule — it’s sacred energy.

When we honor it, our magick moves clean and strong.

Just another thought…. Consent in magick isn’t about fear of karma or some cosmic punishment. It’s about respect—for the sovereignty of others, for the mystery of fate, and for your own integrity as a witch.

Things that make me ponder…Manipulation, even in the name of love or protection, chips away at that integrity. But awareness restores it. Each time you pause to ask, “Is this mine to do?”, you practice not just ethical magick, but wise magick.

Maybe that’s the lesson woven through all this: magick asks us to be in relationship—with energy, with others, with ourselves. Relationships require choice. Without choice, connection becomes control.

So when you stand at your altar, herbs in hand, candle flame dancing, remember—power is not about taking another’s will. It’s about knowing your own and tending it with care. That’s where the truest magick begins!

What are your thoughts on this? I thought it was an interesting topic!

Blessed be and happy Samhain!

-Silverbear

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Such a wise observation. Unfortunately it is too easy to be so absorbed in our own compass of right and wrong that we no longer listen to different points of view with any opportunity to learn from each other. I feel like I am being pushed to take a stand rather than being allowed to sit in the middle.
It’s like a polar force, dragging to the north or south and trying to stay at the equator to be less affected by that drag is becoming a very hard task.

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My thoughts on this is that it depends on your practice. Many witches believe in the harm none rule. Others believe in if you are harming me or those I love your fair game. I fall more in the last category. If you are harming me or my loved ones I’m not only making a protection spell, but you can believe you’re getting back what you have been dishing out. I don’t see it as manipulating one’s will. I see it as more of a you had this coming sort of thing.

I do not disrespect others beliefs. If you practice harm none or if you go for straight revenge or if you fall somewhere in between it is your practice and your belief. I will not argue or disagree with how another witch practices, we all have our own way and beliefs. If what you are doing makes you feel good about yourself and your practice than I am very happy for you and love that you are being your true self.

Blessed Samhain to all!!! :purple_heart::purple_heart::purple_heart:

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