Black magic

What it is

Black magic refers to the use of supernatural powers for evil and selfish purposes. It is traditionally viewed as the dark counterpart to white magic. The term encompasses a wide range of practices, from hexing neighbours to invoking demons. Historically, it was often conflated with witchcraft and heresy. Modern definitions focus heavily on the practitioner's intent rather than specific rituals. Some scholars prefer terms like high magic and low magic to describe these distinctions based on moral alignment.

Where it comes from

The concept traces back to primitive ritualistic worship of spirits. Early rituals aimed to evoke spirits for beneficial outcomes, which later evolved into malevolent forms. The term nigromancy appeared in medieval Latin as a variant of necromancy. Edmund Spenser first used the anglicized form black magic in his epic poem The Faerie Queene. The word derives from Latin niger, meaning black, combined with divination roots.

How it is done

Practices include invoking demons, cursing enemies, and destroying crops. Medieval demonic magic was often performed in groups led by a figure with a grimoire. These rituals were typically conducted in Latin by educated elites. Historical accounts describe Black Masses involving priests and alleged witches. Modern accusations sometimes involve consecrating weapons through blood magick. The methods vary widely depending on the cultural context and historical period.

Tools and materials

Grimoires served as essential texts for practitioners of demonic magic. These books were usually written in Latin and accessible only to the educated elite. Rituals might involve specific ceremonial objects and incantations. Blood has been cited in modern contexts as a tool for consecration. Poisons and zombies are associated with certain traditions like Voodoo sorcery. The tools reflect the malevolent intent behind the magical acts.

What it is for

The primary purpose is to cause harm, bring bad luck, or serve selfish desires. Practitioners seek to curse neighbours or destroy agricultural yields. Some aim to travel great distances in spirit to engage in devil worship. The intent distinguishes it from benevolent folk magic. Accusations often arise when communities fear unseen malevolent forces. The goal is typically to inflict suffering or gain power over others.

Who does it

Historically, practitioners were often members of the educated elite who could read Latin grimoires. Inquisitors targeted those accused of demonic magic and necromancy. Folk healers and cunning folk were sometimes condemned under broad witchcraft laws. Modern Wiccan circles generally reject those who practice harmful magic. Sorcerers like the bokor in Voodoo are known for using both protective and harmful rites.

Peoples and places

The concept appears across various cultures but is heavily documented in European history. Russian state media recently accused Ukrainian officials of using black magic during military conflict. Chinese culture associates venom-based poisons with magical practices. Western Christianity historically persecuted such activities through inquisitions. Voodoo traditions distinguish between white and black magic, though outsiders often conflate them.

What people believe

Beliefs centre on the duality of magical forces, with black representing malevolence. Demons and evil spirits are invoked for harmful purposes. Medieval theology linked these practices to devil worship and heresy. The Malleus Maleficarum devoted significant attention to spirit travel and demonic pacts. Intent is considered the defining factor in modern magical classifications. Good intentions may still be labelled low magic by prejudiced observers.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Robert M. Place describes origins in primitive spirit worship evolving into self-serving rituals. Montague Summers rejected strict white and black divisions, noting all magic was often deemed black by authorities. A. E. Waite provided comprehensive accounts of ceremonial magic practices. Scholars note that natural magic developed as a safer alternative for intellectuals facing persecution. Modern researchers emphasize intent over specific techniques when classifying magical acts.

Compare and confuse

Black magic is often confused with Satanism, though invocation differs from deification. It contrasts with white magic, which focuses on benevolent outcomes. Gray magic represents an intermediate category in some systems. Necromancy specifically involves death magic, while nigromancy is broader. Voodoo is frequently mislabelled as black magic due to popular fiction. These distinctions help clarify the diverse nature of supernatural beliefs.

Questions people ask about Black magic

Good reading and sources

• Black magic on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data