Is Jumping the Broom a Form of Witchcraft in Handfasting Ceremonies?

Jumping the broom is a powerful ritual commonly linked to weddings, especially in handfasting ceremonies. This act holds deep meaning as it represents the future of the union of two people. However, many sometimes confuse it with witchcraft, sparking what I think is an interesting debate: is jumping the broom a form of witchcraft when it comes to handfasting? I decided to write this as an article because I noticed it was an actual searched question that brings people to my website. I thought I would respond with a blog.

In this blog I have written some of the origins, meanings, and cultural importance of both handfasting and the act of jumping the broom. It is also my third edit as I keep thinking of more. My broom makers, Broom squires, at Three Copse, also had some things to share after I first shared this blog. So I had to edit again.

Origins of Handfasting

Handfasting is an ancient Celtic practice that goes back centuries. Initially, it served as a trial marriage. Couples would be symbolically tied together with a cord for a year and a day. During this time, they would see how their relationship flourished. If it thrived, they could choose to formally commit. This practice is making a comeback today, especially for those seeking nature-based or spiritual ceremonies.

The term "handfasting" comes from the Old English phrase "hand fēsten," meaning to tie a knot or bind two hands together. Handfasting expresses not only a commitment between partners but also unity among families and communities. Within our history we held the belief of the we of life, or web of wyrd, I belief the handfasting is the representation of the cords of life being tied together, acknowledging peoples lives coming together.

According to a 2022 survey, 27% of couples opted for handfasting as part of their wedding ceremonies, showcasing its growing popularity.

As a celebrant that only offers handfasting ceremonies most of my clients have their legal bit and handfasting separately. either on the same day or separate days. for some couples the handfasting is the ceremony their invite friends and family to, and the legal it they choose to do with just their chosen witnesses.

Jumping the Broom

Jumping the broom has a rich history, through the history of the British Isles and world, it seems. I discovered also that more recently within the history of African American culture. It gained prominence during slavery when enslaved individuals were often denied access to formal marriage ceremonies. In this context, jumping the broom became a public declaration of commitment for couples. Kester, Broom squire and Three Copse mentioned to me that he had a couple of Christian belief ask for a Besom/ Broom to be made for their wedding, the groom with West Indies heritage and Bride with Welsh heritage, other with deep ancestral connections to jumping the besom within their wedding.

It is also a rite that has taken place in England, Scotland and Ireland too. It is also linked to Roma heritage too. Jumping the broom was also associated with Roma communities and considered a way to signify a marriage when formal religious or legal unions weren't possible.

The act itself symbolizes cleansing, transition, and new beginnings. There are also beliefs that jumping the broom cleared the past, cleared the way for the future and would sweep away evil, or negative influences from the couple.

By leaping over the broom, couples leave behind their single lives and step into a new phase of partnership. Studies according to an AI search I used show that nearly 30% of modern couples incorporate this ritual into their weddings, signifying its enduring significance.

Plus we see its important within black cultural heritage, Roma and Celtic that it signified marriage when legal unions weren't available.

Is Jumping the Broom Witchcraft?

The question of whether jumping the broom is a form of witchcraft requires some exploration. Typically, witchcraft evokes images of spellcasting and esoteric practices. However, it’s important to differentiate cultural rituals from arcane activities.

Historically, jumping the broom doesn’t fit the traditional definition of witchcraft. Its key aspects represent jumping to clear away what isnt needed, or evil influences. The union, love and commitment. The clearing of the old, and the jumping for luck and prosperity into the future. You could say the act and symbology is a spell craft or charm in its very act. If this is your belief.

Many handfasting ceremonies today blend various spiritual elements, but for many the act doesn’t equate to witchcraft.

One could say the tying of the knot in a handfasting is a spell too, and is there for witchcraft. It is really down to belief.

The distinction between cultural significance and witchcraft lies in the intent behind the actions. Handfasting and jumping the broom are meant to celebrate love, rather than to engage in esoteric practices. Couples often choose these rituals to honour their heritage, their own beliefs, or to connect with their roots.

Also, jumping the broom can serve as a fresh start, uniting families and communities. As after the couple jumps, guests are all often invited to jump too. In this way, it acts more as a unifying ritual than an association with witches.

The use of the broom is also due to its nature as a common household item everyone owned. It was easy to come by. It symbolises the keeping of a household that marriage is as well.

Personal Beliefs and Interpretations

Personal beliefs about witchcraft can vary greatly across individuals and communities. For some, jumping the broom may resonate on a spiritual level, while others see it simply as a charming wedding tradition without any links to witchcraft.

This diverse interpretation enriches the handfasting ceremony. Couples are encouraged to weave in elements that resonate with them, creating a personalized experience that echoes their values and beliefs.

The Modern Revival of Handfasting and Jumping the Broom

Recently, handfasting ceremonies have gained popularity, especially among couples looking for alternatives to traditional weddings. This revival often includes traditional practices like jumping the broom.

Today, many couples view these rituals as meaningful ways to demonstrate their love while honouring their cultural roots, and its a lot of fun. It makes an even more memorable day. . A 2023 report indicated that about 35% of weddings now include some form of cultural or ritualistic elements, highlighting a trend toward more personalized unions.

The broom also brings the magic of the rite into everyday life if the couples choose to bring the broom home. If they leave it by the door it holds the symbolism of metaphorically clearing what doesn't serve them energetically from the home too, and carries the luck from the handfasting ceremony.

Final Thoughts

So, is jumping the broom a form of witchcraft in handfasting ceremonies? The answer is nuanced. While some spiritual elements exist, jumping the broom mainly symbolizes luck, commitment, symbolism for clearing, and it holds cultural heritage. It stands as a celebration, not necessarily an occult practice.

As with many cultural traditions, interpretation heavily relies on personal beliefs and the meanings attached to this act. Whether seen as a heartfelt ritual of commitment or something more mystical, jumping the broom remains a cherished and fun symbol in handfasting ceremonies.

As a celebrant, I personally love this rite within the ceremonies. So much so I gift a besom / broom to all my couples if they choose to jump the broom as part of their ceremony

If you wish to have a besom for jumping the broom in your ceremony there are a number of Traditional

Broom Makers, known as Broom Squires in the country, only six listed with Heritage Crafts, it is unfortunately a dying trade. So if you want to buy a besom please do approach a skilled person who crafts them traditionally. https://www.heritagecrafts.org.uk/craft/broom-making/

I personally use Three Copse Woodland Products.

Couples Jumping the Broom following their Handfasting Ceremony.