In this overdue discussion, we are going to clear up common misconceptions surrounding the notion of ” Black”and “White” Magic. This generalized duality that is often spread can mislead the Neophyte who is exploring the world of magick for the first time. Superficial resources like books and google searches won’t be sufficient for a genuine understanding.
Exploring ” Black”and “White” Magic:
The terms “black” and “white” magick are problematic because they fail to capture the nuanced nature of magickal practices. Categorizing magick into a strict duality oversimplifies the complexity that exists. While some label the Left Hand Path as “black” and the Right Hand Path as “white,” this doesn’t account for the middle ground where many practices reside. When novices talk about “Black Magick” they are mostly thinking about demonology and execration magick used to hex or offensive magick.
Shedding Light on Misconceptions:
Over time, myths surrounding magick have been debunked. Take, for example, demonology and the concept of “black” magick. Historical sources reveal that entities like demons were not purely evil; rather, they were neutral beings with their own will, much like humans. Look at the accounts of Paracelsus and his Daemon as an example. Human capacity for choice blurs the lines between rigid definitions.
Origins of Color-Coded: ” Black”and “White” Magic:
Unveiling the origins of the ” Black”and “White” Magic” misnomer reveals a history intertwined with racism and cultural biases. The terms emerged from deliberate associations of “black” with negativity and “white” with positivity. This is rooted in biases against practices like Vodou which is practiced by communities of African descent. These labels extend to practitioners’ skin colors which perpetuates harmful stereotypes. True magick practitioners are aware of magick’s neutrality and stand against prejudice/oversimplification. This is needed to embrace the craft’s authentic essence and diversity. Understanding this history is crucial to dismantling misconceptions and fostering a more nuanced perspective on magick.
Nuanced Perspectives:
Magick, in its essence, is devoid of inherent morality. Energy is neither divine nor evil, as a result, magick is neutral. To draw a parallel to electricity, its usage dictates its nature. Similarly, magick’s character is molded by the practitioner wielding it.
Rosicrucian Insights:
The Rosicrucians who are renowned for their wisdom, also recognize the fallacy in labeling. Psychic attacks, which once were perceived as “black” magick, involve harmful intentions aimed at penetrating the aura. In terms of electricity these harmful intentions are negatively charged electromagnetic arrows. This highlights that intention and practice define not only the essence of magick but also transcend preset categories.
Sadhguru’s Wisdom:
You need to understand that energy is just energy; it is neither divine nor is it evil. You can make anything – a god or a devil – out of it. It is like electricity. Is electricity the divine or the devil? When it is lighting your house, it is the divine. If it becomes an electric chair, it is the devil. It just depends on who is operating it at that moment.
Sadhguru’s analogy reinforces the neutrality of energy. Just as with magick, electricity also takes on its inherent qualities according to the operator. Divinity or malevolence emanates from the intentions of the practitioner and not from inherent labels.
In a realm as complex as magick, however, sweeping generalizations like “black” and “white” magick fall short. Nuance thrives where rigidity fades. So, our exploration highlights that the true essence of magick lies within the intentions, actions, and the understanding of the practitioner. Armed with these principles you can transcend simple groupings.
Here are some articles to better understand the implications of the terms “Black and White Magic”:
https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2176&context=honorstheses
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1271&context=mhr
Here is our book suggestion below:
Featured picture: Dee Kennedy from Awakening The Divine
