What is the rule of three? Do I need to follow it?

The rule of three is part of the Wiccan faith. This rule was first mentioned as a rule of advice by Monique Wilson, then popularized by Raymond Buckland and finally printed in Gerald Gardner’s 1949 High Magic’s Aid:

“Thou hast obeyed the Law. But mark well, when thou receivest good, so equally art bound to return good threefold.” (For this is the joke in witchcraft, the witch knows, though the initiate does not, that she will get three times what she gave, so she does not strike hard.)

This rule, like any other rule in any other faith, is followed or not, depending on the belief of the follower. Some Wiccans hold this rule to be the utmost truth of energetic dealings, while others do not. Some who are not Wiccans also follow this law, but most faiths outside of Wicca have their own version of this rule. Sometimes it is much more stringent, other times, less so.

The main point is, don’t ever let anyone tell you that your religious beliefs are wrong, and recognize that others will and can believe differently than you. If you wish to know more about why or why not someone believes this rule, always ask with respect.