Students often wonder what the cords obtained at the end of their completion of studies. Normally each degree, which there are three and above,  is a minimum of one year, one month and one day. After which each initiate earns certain symbols showing that they have completed the path of study they have ended. One of the most important symbol is the cord.

Each degree has colors which is associated with the year. Most often wonder what these are, what they mean and where did this come from.

There are varying tales of each so it depends upon who you are asking in order to get an answer. Much like anything else in our world.

There are three major degrees that most obtain. Higher than the three are available but are complicated and take longer to get.



First Degree: Red Cord

The first degree cord is that of the color red. Why red? An interesting tale that it symbolizes the bindings used to hold the king that was to be sacrificed. This being the main reason the first degree cord is red due to the royal blood, further identifying the new initiate as a new path walker. Another view is that it distinguishes the new initiate as a knowledge seeker which is striving to learn more and more.




Second Degree: Green Cord


The second degree color cord is that of green. The symbolization of the re-newel blood of the Lord of Harvest. Now the initiate has entered the doorway unto the mysteries itself. More knowledgable and skilled this individual is now eligible to become (depending on gender) a Priest or Priestess. Being able to represent the life giving green vine of the Harvest Lord.



Third Degree: Blue or Black Cord

The third degree is a milestone in a person of the Crafts life. Especially if they are in a coven or a community. They are now on a level that has shown the Elders that they are extremely serious in not just the practice but gaining knowledge.
There are two areas of thought on this cord. Depending upon your coven or community it may vary from either Black or Blue. Both have the same distinction just the meaning is slightly different.

The blue cord of the Third Degree symbolizes the marriage of the individual to either the God or Goddess of their chosen path. It is commonly known as the Divine Marriage. As you have now come to give your life to the Divine One. Behaving in such mannerisms that give thought to your actions for the good. You should have obtained balance and a higher magical practice by this time.

The blue is the representation of the sky. This is the only period of the day where the moon and sun can be seen at the same time. Representing the God and the Goddess.


The black cord on the other hand is basically the same thing yet the representation is different. As being the womb of the Great Goddess herself. Belief as this is the beginning of all things.

Each of the cords is important and gratifying to receive as the individual has learned their particular craft well. Living the life, loving and honoring their particular deity. Each day they feel the offering of the love and warmth of the Divine One and are able to give this back to them.

On closing I would like to state that what is given may be taken away. If you are in a coven or community and you offend, go against the Rede or any other act against the Law your cord may be asked to be returned. As you have proven no longer worthy or trustful. It does happen. This act is done after either the Elders or High Priest/Priestess has thought long and hard about the offense. I have personally sat in on the removal of a member and the ritualistic cord retrieval. It is a sad event.

No matter what you are striving for. A cord is only a symbol, remember that.

It is your devotion that is the most important.
A cord is materialistic.
A title is egotistic.
Your devotion is real and lasting.