Dictionaries, to update definition of 'Witchcraft' and 'Heathen.'


Dictionaries, to update definition of 'Witchcraft' and 'Heathen.'
The Issue
Upon checking the web definitions of "Witchcraft" and "Heathen" on both Oxford and Merriam-Webster's dictionaries I was shocked to see such incorrect, derogatory definitions, for something that is part of a peaceful way of life, for many people.
The dictionary is the foundation of the English language, it's used every day by people. Knowledge is power, and words have power. But all I see here is ignorance.
Witchcraft in Webster is listed as "Communication with the devil or familiar spirits."
In Oxford, it's listed as "The practice of magic, especially black magic"
So, as the petitions creator, I feel it prudent that these definitions be updated for the modern world! These definitions are clearly from a period without tolerance, understanding and religious freedom... Which are tenets of democratic nations in the West.
Please update these definitions with the help of the elders in notable faiths such as Asatru, Wicca and others.
WebEnquiry.UK@oup.com
enquiries@britannica.co.uk

Eclectic Pagan BeliefsPetition Starter
This petition had 72 supporters
The Issue
Upon checking the web definitions of "Witchcraft" and "Heathen" on both Oxford and Merriam-Webster's dictionaries I was shocked to see such incorrect, derogatory definitions, for something that is part of a peaceful way of life, for many people.
The dictionary is the foundation of the English language, it's used every day by people. Knowledge is power, and words have power. But all I see here is ignorance.
Witchcraft in Webster is listed as "Communication with the devil or familiar spirits."
In Oxford, it's listed as "The practice of magic, especially black magic"
So, as the petitions creator, I feel it prudent that these definitions be updated for the modern world! These definitions are clearly from a period without tolerance, understanding and religious freedom... Which are tenets of democratic nations in the West.
Please update these definitions with the help of the elders in notable faiths such as Asatru, Wicca and others.
WebEnquiry.UK@oup.com
enquiries@britannica.co.uk

Eclectic Pagan BeliefsPetition Starter
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Petition created on 26 November 2015