The broom, or besom, is probably the most recognized symbol of Witches and Witchcraft. While many people think of flying Witches, the broom’s real meaning is much deeper. For centuries, brooms have been part of Witchcraft and pagan traditions all over the world, with origins going back to ancient times.
In the past, the broom was more than just a cleaning tool—it was also a sacred object. In medieval Europe, brooms were linked to both daily life and magical practices. Women, especially healers and midwives, often used brooms in rituals to bless homes, protect families, and mark sacred spaces.
In Witchcraft, the broom is usually not used during the main ritual. Instead, it is used before rituals to sweep away unwanted energy from the space. This is called “sweeping the circle,” and it is a way to spiritually cleanse the area and get it ready for magic.
The broom’s bristles do not have to touch the ground for this to work. The cleansing happens on a spiritual and energetic level, symbolically removing negativity and stuck energy. This practice is based on the idea that physical actions can affect the unseen world.
Because the broom is used for purification, it is often connected to the element of Water and is considered sacred to the Goddess in many pagan traditions. Sweeping is seen as a gentle, caring act, reflecting the Goddess’s role as a protector and cleanser.
The broom is also used for protection. Placing a broom near the front door is a traditional way to keep out negative or unwanted energies. Some Witches sweep their doorways regularly to keep this protective barrier strong.
Brooms come in many shapes and sizes. Some are small and decorative, while others are large and practical. Some Witches use a simple tree branch as a broom, especially when working outdoors or in nature.
Sacred brooms are often made from woods like birch, ash, and willow. Each type of wood has its own magical meaning—birch for cleansing, ash for protection, and willow for intuition and healing. The bristles are usually tied with natural twine, and some Witches add herbs or flowers for extra power.
Many Witches prefer to make their own ritual brooms, putting their own intentions and energy into them. However, a regular household broom can also be used for magic if it is dedicated through a simple ritual, making this practice open to everyone.
It is important to keep the ritual broom separate from everyday cleaning. Using it for both regular chores and magic is thought to weaken its spiritual power. The ritual broom should be honored as a special tool for transformation and protection.
In conclusion, the broom in Witchcraft is much more than a symbol of flight or fantasy. It is a powerful tool for cleansing, protection, and connecting to ancient traditions—showing us that even simple objects can have deep spiritual meaning.
