“Memory, prophecy and fantasy-
the past and future and
the dreaming moment between-
are all one country,
living one immortal day.
To know that is wisdom.
To use it is the Art.
-Clive Barker
“The Great and Secret Show”
What is magick?*
This question is a difficult one to answer and every person asked will no doubt have a different answer on what the word means to them. If you had asked me five or ten years ago what magick meant to me, I would have a different answer than I do today, and I may have another one just a few years from now. This change in perspective in no way feels problematic to me, as my goal is to always be in a constant state of acquiring knowledge, and I am open to change. The best answer that I have at the moment is from a quote by Aleister Crowley in his book Magick in Theory and Practice:
“Magick is the science and art of causing change to occur in conformity with will.” **
Simply put, we have the means and ability to make our world as we wish it to be. Most people already practice the art in their day to day lives without realizing it, but the real practitioner does so with full knowledge of what they want to achieve and the steps they need to take to get there. Terms like “think positive,” and “visualize success” are the simplest beginnings of using the craft.
What kind of magick can one practice?
There are infinite ways to go about practicing the art in all of its different forms. There are as many types of magickal practices (Wiccan, Thelemic, Enochian, Hermetic, Chaos, etc.) as there are types of religions practiced by people around the world. There is a common belief that there is “black magick” and “white magick,” and a witch is either good or bad, depending on what color of magick they practice. I believe that nothing is farther from the truth. Magick has no color. It simply is. What matters is a person’s intent when practicing the art.
Just as there are many types of practice, there are many types of practitioners or witches. The craft can be practiced solitarily, in groups or covens, and can be accomplished in a multitude of ways. It is up to the individual practitioner to find their path and not be afraid to change course from time to time. A static practitioner is someone who does not learn or grow from their experiences, and I highly discourage this state of being. One must continually learn and grow and evolve.
What tools does one use to practice magick?
There are many, many tools used to practice magick. The most common tools are candles, oils, herbs, stones, and tarot cards. However, the most important tools are knowledge and will. Please see the other sections under the Practical Magick menu to learn more.
Who can practice magick?
Anyone. As long as one has the desire to take the first step, infinite ones will follow. I wish you safe travels on your journey of self-discovery!
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*Magick is spelled with a “k” to separate this practice from the slight-of-hand, illusion kind of magic.
**I feel the need to specify that I am not endorsing Crowley or his practice. I am well aware of the troubles in his personal and professional life. However, his effect on the craft cannot be overstated. He still remains one of the most prolific magicians to date.