Witchcraft

Witchcraft is the study and practice of magic.
Witchcraft is not a religion, although many modern witches do follow the Wiccan or Neo-pagan religions.
Witchcraft is not of evil intent, and should not be associated diabolism or occultism. Simple magic was commonplace in pre-Christian times, and magic ceremonies were practiced by nearly everyone. The Christian church was initially very tolerant of sorcery, but during the 13th and 14th centuries there was a growing belief in church that magic did not come from god, but the devil, and so attitudes towards witches changed. Those who practiced in sorcery, especially the village wise women, became to be regarded as practitioners of "diabolical witchcraft"  ( the summoning of the devil and demons ) which eventually resulted in a witch-hunting mania, driven by the Church, during the 16th and 17th centuries. Even today, some conservative Christians still consider witchcraft in the same light.
The picture is of Bessie Dunlop, a wise woman and healer of Ayrshire. According to testimony, she used her knowledge and powers for good. She helped local people with herbal cures for animals and children, and offered all sorts information, including finding stolen and lost property. She was bunt alive in 1576.