The Witch’s Broom (Besom): Symbolism, History & Magic

For centuries, the witch’s broom, also known as the besom, has been deeply rooted in folklore, mysticism, and witchcraft. It is one of the most iconic tools associated with witches, often depicted in art, myths, and pop culture. But beyond the imagery of witches flying through the night, the besom holds a powerful spiritual and magical significance. In this post, we will dive into the history, symbolism, magical uses, and practical applications of the witch’s broom.

The History of the Witch’s Broom

The origins of the besom date back to ancient times when brooms were handcrafted using natural materials. Before modern brooms, people would bind together twigs, straw, or even herbs to create tools for sweeping away dust and dirt from their homes.

However, the besom took on a more spiritual role in folk traditions and early pagan practices. Many ancient civilizations, including the Celts, used besoms in rituals and ceremonies to cleanse spaces of negative energies. Over time, the besom became a staple in witchcraft and magic.

The “Flying Witch” Myth

One of the most enduring tales of the witch’s broom comes from medieval times. During the witch hunts, people believed that witches anointed their besoms with flying ointments and used them to soar through the skies. This belief was largely fueled by hallucinogenic herbs, which some witches and healers used in their practices.

These herbs—such as belladonna, henbane, and mandrake—could create a sensation of floating or flying when absorbed through the skin. Some historical accounts suggest that witches would rub these ointments on their bodies and, rather than actually flying, would experience vivid visions of flight. The besom was simply a symbolic “mount” in these mystical experiences.

Thus, the image of witches riding brooms across the moon was born—an idea that still lingers in modern Halloween imagery.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning of the Witch’s Broom

The besom is not just a household tool but a powerful symbol of purification, protection, and transition in witchcraft. It carries deep spiritual meanings, including:

1. Cleansing and Protection

• Traditionally, the besom is used to sweep away negative energy from a space, making it a powerful tool for spiritual cleansing.

• Many witches use their besoms to sweep ritual circles before spellwork to clear away stagnant energy.

• Hanging a besom near the doorway protects a home from unwanted spirits and negative forces.

2. Balance of Masculine & Feminine Energies

• The besom represents a union of masculine and feminine energies.

  • The handle (usually made of ash or oak wood) is considered masculine, symbolizing strength, endurance, and action.

  • The bristles (often made of birch, willow, or other flexible twigs) are considered feminine, representing intuition, wisdom, and cleansing energy.

• This balance makes the besom a potent tool in fertility rituals and handfasting ceremonies.

3. A Tool for Astral Travel

• In magical folklore, witches were believed to use their besoms to travel between worlds, connecting the physical and spiritual realms.

• Some witches still use the besom as a visualization aid for astral projection, holding it while meditating to journey beyond the mundane world.

4. Fertility and Good Luck

• The besom has long been associated with fertility magic, especially in pagan weddings or “handfastings.” Couples might jump over a besom together to symbolize a new beginning, ensuring prosperity and protection for their union.

• It is also a charm for good fortune, especially when placed in the home with its bristles pointing upward.

Magical Uses of the Witch’s Broom

Witches today continue to use the besom in various rituals and spells. Here are some of its common magical applications:

1. Home Cleansing & Protection

• Sweep the floors without touching the ground to clear out stagnant or negative energies.

• Place a small besom over a door, window, or hearth to block malevolent forces from entering your home.

2. Ritual Circle Preparation

• Before casting a circle, gently sweep the space with a besom to remove any lingering energy and create a purified area for magic.

• Some witches keep a small, dedicated ritual besom for this purpose.

3. Handfasting & Marriage Rituals

• Couples jump over a besom to symbolize stepping into their new life together.

• Some handfasting ceremonies decorate besoms with flowers, ribbons, and charms for added blessings.

4. Astral & Spiritual Travel

• Some witches place a besom under their bed or near their altar to enhance dream work, astral travel, and spiritual journeys.

5. Warding Off Spirits & Curses

• In folk traditions, a besom placed across the threshold prevents unwanted spirits from crossing into a home.

• Some witches use besoms in banishing spells by sweeping negative energy out of the home and front door.

The Witch’s Broom in Modern Witchcraft

Despite its historical ties to folklore, the witch’s broom remains an essential tool for contemporary witches. Whether used in rituals, spellwork, or home protection, it is a symbol of spiritual power, energy cleansing, and magical balance.

Some witches prefer to have multiple besoms—one for ritual use and another for general home protection. Others may bless their besom during the Sabbats, particularly during Samhain or Beltane, when the veil between worlds is thin.

Regardless of how you use it, the besom serves as a reminder of a witch’s connection to the elements, spirit, and the unseen forces of the universe.

The witch’s broom is much more than a Halloween decoration—it is a sacred tool deeply rooted in history and magic. Whether you keep a besom for ritual purification, home blessings, or as a symbol of your craft, it is a powerful ally in spiritual work.

Do you have a besom in your practice?

Feel free to share how you use yours in the comments below! Blessings everyone, Avanjia www.thehourofwitchery.com