Neo-Paganism - The practice of magic

Witchcraft is synonymous with magic, but ‘most magicians, witches and other magical practitioners do not believe that magic has anything to do with the supernatural’ (Adler: 6). `Magic is a convenient word for a whole collection of techniques, all of which involve the mind’ (8). The tools of magic are `intention, imagination, and concentration’ (Kemp: 62). The purpose of Wiccan ritual is to produce an altered state of consciousness in which people have access to and control over their psychic talents (Adler: 161). Energy is ‘raised’ and directed `into the ether as a powerful thought form’ (Kemp: 64). Football matches are excellent `energy raisers’ but the energy is not gathered, so it evaporates into thin air. A witch writes, ‘I make no claim as a witch to supernatural powers, but I believe in super powers that reside in the natural’ (Adler: 154). It is within an altered state of consciousness that `magic happens’.

Wiccans use a variety of methods[17] to produce these altered states: candle magic, dancing, drumming, chanting, daydreaming, meditation. They use props, costumes, theatre, plays, breathing exercises, herbs and mixtures, oils, colours, music, prayer, spells and incense. Such methods are designed to awaken the `deep mind’, to arouse deep emotion, enforce concentration and facilitate entry into an altered state (Adler: 157).

Monotheists need to remind themselves that an animistic world view does not include the ’supernatural’, for all things natural are imbued with spirit. A Wiccan high priestess explains:

Wicca is the craft of the ordinary people. It concerns itself with honouring the earth and each other, the changing seasons, the best times to plant and sow and reap and mow, and the knowledge of one’s self and one’s place in the great scheme of things. On another level, simple spells focus the intent and/or the group consciousness on a desired result. Using supernatural powers, the conjuration of spiritual entities, is more the realm of the Ceremonial Magickian. Although related, this is another subject entirely. (personal email, 2/9/01)

Neo-Paganism - Ritual in Neo-Paganism
Neo-Paganism - Sexuality in ritual

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