Whether you’re just starting your magical journey or have been practicing for years, there’s something truly powerful about connecting with others who share your craft.
Let’s explore of coven based witchcraft, what covens are, why they’ve become such an important part of modern witchcraft, and how you can join one.
If you’ve ever wondered about the magic of community, shared rituals, and the support of a coven, keep reading to learn how being part of a witchy collective can deepen your practice and empower your spiritual journey.
What Exactly is a Coven?
The term coven as it relates to witches is believed to have originated in Scotland during the Early Modern period (16th–18th centuries).
The word itself comes from the Middle English covent or covenant, meaning a gathering or assembly, but its association with witchcraft was popularized through accusations made during witch trials.
One of the earliest recorded uses of coven in reference to witches appears in Scottish witch trial records from the 1660s, particularly in the confessions of Isobel Gowdie, a Scottish woman accused of witchcraft.
Gowdie claimed that she and twelve others met regularly to worship the Devil, leading to the idea of a coven consisting of thirteen witches, which is a notion that has persisted in folklore and modern witchcraft traditions.
Margaret Murray & ‘Structured’ Covens
The idea of witches gathering in groups likely stems from earlier European fears of heretical sects and secret societies. However, the concept of structured covens was further developed and popularized in the 20th century by Margaret Murray, an Egyptologist and folklorist.
In her book The Witch-Cult in Western Europe (1921), Murray theorized (without strong historical evidence, it should be noted) that witches had once been part of an organized, pre-Christian fertility religion that worshipped a horned god in covens of thirteen.
While her ideas have been largely debunked by historians, they heavily influenced modern Wicca (and thus all strains of witchcraft from Green, to Gray, to Cosmic, and everyhting in between). And, of course, this means they also influenced the way we think about covens today.
So, while the word “coven” emerged in Scotland, the idea of witches meeting in secret groups has roots in medieval and early modern fears about female gatherings, folk traditions, and later, fictionalized interpretations of history.
So, What is a Coven Based Witch?
So, now we know what a coven is, and where the term came from, but modern covens are obviously not the same as the covens described in the middle ages and onwards.
This begs the question; what is a coven based witch in today's society?
A coven based witch today practices witchcraft within a group, where the focus is on shared rituals, mutual support, and collective energy. Coven based magic isn’t a specific type of magic, unlike, say like elemental or hearth magic, but rather a way of practicing.
It’s about adhering to a coven’s traditions, rituals, and rules. Modern covens prioritize inclusivity, equality, and personal growth, offering a space for members to exchange knowledge and amplify their magical work together.
In contrast, a Solitary Witch practices independently, tailoring their rituals and magic to their own needs and intuition. There is no coven to guide or influence her.
Both paths are valid. Covens provide connection and shared power, while solitary witches have more freedom to explore and express their craft individually.
The Idea of a Coven Was Likely Invented to Demonise Women
So, you’ll probably be noticing a theme arising here. Whether you identify with feminist ideologies or not, it’s impossible to ignore what I believe was the prevailing consensus:
There is nothing more terrifying than when women come together to accomplish great things!
Historically, even informal gatherings of women to share information, trade herbs, or even just to gossip were seen as dangerous, as Soraya Chemaly, writing for salon, points out.
“Women were persecuted for associating with other women, accused of forming covens or holding parties with Satan”
Chemaly says, highlighting how historical misogyny fueled the fear and persecution of women simply for building relationships with one another, framing their gatherings as dangerous or even evil.
By accusing women of forming covens or conspiring with Satan, patriarchal authorities sought to control female autonomy, reinforcing the idea that independent, unsanctioned female bonds were a threat to societal order.
However, this only serves to highlight just how powerful women making meaningful connections with other women can be. Despite past fears, coven based witchcraft is still relevant today, proving that they are not relics of the past but evolving communities that fulfill a real, ongoing need for connection, mentorship, and empowerment.
Modern Covens are a Fact Born from Fiction
So, now that we know a little more about where the idea of a witch’s coven comes from, here’s a fascinating irony to ponder over.
For centuries, people (mostly men in power, let’s not beat around the bush) were terrified of secret gatherings of women, accusing them of forming covens and “making pacts with the Devil” (which is probably code for “doing things that we don’t like”).
But any historical evidence that exists suggests that these accusations were largely (if not entirely) fabricated, a tool of control rather than a reflection of reality.
There’s no solid evidence that medieval witches actually met in organized groups to dance with the Devil. Instead, the idea of covens was likely born from paranoia, misogyny, and the need to justify persecution.
Covens Today Focus on Empowerment
And yet, fast forward to the 20th and 21st centuries, and actual covens exist!
There are literally groups of self-proclaimed witches gathering not to conspire against society, but to support and empower one another.
The irony is fascinating, isn’t it? The thing that was once a baseless accusation, used to demonize women, has become a real and intentional practice.
It’s almost as if, by constantly insisting that women were doing something dangerous together, society unintentionally planted the seed for them to actually do it. Except now, it’s on their own terms.
It’s a powerful example of reclaiming a narrative. What was once a label forced onto women as a justification for their persecution has been adopted by modern witches as a source of strength, connection, and spiritual practice.
It’s almost poetic justice. After all that fear and oppression, covens do exist now, just not in the way history imagined. Instead of being a threat, they’re a source of community and empowerment.
The Feminist Covens of the 20th Century
So, we’ve established that the covens that exist today are an interesting phenomenon born out of fiction. Coven based witchcraft continues to thrive as a powerful and symbolic form of modern feminism, providing a space for women to reclaim autonomy, solidarity, and self-expression.
But the covens of the 21st century are somewhat less radical and generally more individualistic than the covens of the 1900s.
As explained in Witchy Woman: Witchcraft as a Modernized Feminine Motif (2019), the 1960s feminist group W.I.T.C.H. embraced the image of the witch as a force of rebellion and empowerment, declaring that “any woman could become a witch simply by declaring herself as such.”
This radical inclusivity still resonates today, as many modern witches form covens to foster community, practice rituals, and challenge societal norms.
In a world where women’s voices are often stifled, the idea that “you make your own rules” and “are free and beautiful” speaks to the enduring need for spaces where women can define themselves on their own terms.
Whether engaging in political activism, spiritual exploration, or simply supporting one another, covens offer a sanctuary where women can be, as W.I.T.C.H. put it, “untamed, angry, joyous, and immortal.”
Covens Were Also Deeply Tied to Wicca
This resurgence of coven based witchcraft in the 1960s wasn’t just fueled by feminism.
It was also deeply tied to the rise of Wicca. As Ethan Doyle White explains, British Traditional Wicca spread rapidly across North America during this time, taking advantage of America’s commitment to religious freedom (White, 2022).
But while Wicca helped popularize the modern coven, it never held a monopoly on the concept. Witches of all belief systems have long found strength in gathering, exchanging knowledge, and creating a sense of belonging.
Why Witches Might Join a Coven Today
Solitary practice has its perks, but there’s something undeniably powerful about working magic in a group.
As prominent witch Starhawk describes, a coven is essentially “a Witch’s support group” (White, 2022) a space where practitioners can find both spiritual guidance and real-world solidarity.
A coven acts as a circle of strength, with each witch member contributing their energy, knowledge, and support to something greater than themselves. Many find that rituals performed in a coven feel more potent, with group energy amplifying intention and results.
Let’s take a look at why some witches chose to join or form a coven today (and what the benefits and advantages could be):
1. There’s More Learning & Growth in a Coven
One of the greatest benefits of joining a coven is shared knowledge. Witches of different skill levels and specialties come together, allowing for mentorship and deeper exploration of the craft.
Whether you’re learning herbalism, divination, or energy work, having experienced practitioners to guide you can be invaluable. Many covens also follow structured traditions, which can provide a rich foundation for your magical path.
2. The Right Coven Can Elevate Your Practice
Not all covens are the same, and it’s important to find one that aligns with your values and beliefs. Some are more structured, with set rituals and initiatory levels, while others are more informal and eclectic. Having this kind of accountability and support that aligns with your own craft can be a surefire way to push you to develop and grow.
Look for a coven that fosters respect, equality, and ethical practice, every member should have a voice, and no one should feel pressured into anything that doesn’t align with their personal beliefs.
3. There’s Greater Commitment & Responsibility
Unlike solitary practice, where you set your own pace, being in a coven requires a level of commitment. Regular meetings, rituals, and group workings mean that your presence matters, not just for your own growth but for the strength of the coven as a whole.
This doesn’t mean you lose personal freedom, but it does mean being accountable to a community that supports you in return.
4. It Builds Sacred Bonds & Lifelong Connections
Beyond the magic, a coven is often a close-knit spiritual clan, in lieu of hereditary magical ties; a coven allows you to forge your own family. Many witches find lifelong friendships within their coven, offering support not just in magic but in everyday life.
There’s a deep sense of belonging that comes with knowing you have a circle of witches who stand with you, whether in times of celebration or struggle.
5. Magic is Stronger Together
At its heart, coven based witchcraft is about unity, supporting one another, learning together, and raising energy as a collective force. The idea of witches gathering was once feared, but today, it stands as a testament to the power of community and shared intention.
If you feel called to the coven path, trust that intuition and seek out your circle. Magic is always stronger together.
So How Do You Join a Coven?
Embarking on the journey to join or start a coven can be exciting and enriching. Here are some ways to connect with a witchy community:
- Online Communities: Platforms like Meetup.com and Facebook host various witchcraft groups. Examples include “London Wiccans” and “New York City Witches,” (just as examples – there are many more if you search your location) where practitioners organize events and share knowledge.
- Festivals and Retreats: Events like Witchfest International (Nov 2025, Kempton Park Racecourse) and The Witches’ Path retreats in the USA and Bavarian Alps offer immersive experiences, workshops, and opportunities to network with like-minded witches.
- Social Media Groups: Searching for witchcraft or pagan groups on Facebook can lead you to numerous online communities where practitioners share knowledge, experiences, and event information.
These avenues provide great opportunities to build connections, deepen your practice, and find a supportive coven or community.
Could You Be a Coven Based Witch?
If you’re seeking structure, mentorship, and a magical family to grow with, a coven might be the perfect path. If you thrive in community and love the idea of weaving your energy with others, the coven path offers a deeply rewarding experience.
If you think joining a coven could be right for you, there are considerations to keep in mind:
- Research and Reflection: Before joining or forming a coven, reflect on your personal beliefs and what you seek in a community.
- Ethical Practices: Ensure that any group you engage with operates on principles of equality, respect, and ethical conduct.
- Cultivate Patience: Finding or building the right community takes time. Trust in the journey and remain open to various experiences along the way.
By exploring these avenues, you can find a community that resonates with your spiritual path and offers the camaraderie and support inherent in coven based witchcraft.
Whether working with a traditional lineage or forming a new coven with like-minded witches, the key is finding a group that resonates with your spirit.
