| �Magic�, where did we get the idea for it, what is it, where did it come from and how is it that it got called this?
Well, there seems to have always been ceremonial magic folklore traditions that utilize spells and talismans, which invoked the power of the angels. For instance circles were drawn for protection in an ancient practice that is used by magicians as a means of keeping at bay negative energies and entities. During the Western medieval period, circles were drawn on the floor around the seriously ill and around newborns and mother to protect them against demonic forces. A standard part of casting a circle involves invoking the directional powers of the angels. This would be of the four principal archangels, who were associated with the four directions; Raphael rules the East, Michael rules the south, Gabriel the West, and Uriel the North. Today many people do not believe in magic, but history tells us many people did however believe and look to invisible, supernatural forces to exercise powers over others or control the natural world. People practiced magic to gain knowledge, love, wealth, and healing illness and ward off danger. They also looked to it to harm others, destroy their enemies, guarantee success or productivity, and to learn about the future. Many of these techniques are taught at Hogwarts such as spells, charms, potions, and divination. Back then people practiced magic to relieve their stress and felt in control of their situations. |
| Magical Myths 101 Lesson 1 |
| The English word, magic, is derived from the name of the high priests of ancient Persia (Iran today), who were called �magi�. In the sixth century B. C., the magi were known for their profound learning and gifts of prophecy. They were known for their dream interpretations and practiced astrology.
During Greek and Roman times they were regarded as mysterious figures that possessed profound secrets and supernatural powers. For a long time anything regarded as supernatural was deemed to be creations of the magi and became known as �magic�! No single individual or culture invented magic. The practice has been handed down over the centuries originated in many civilizations, including ancient Persians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Hebrews, Greeks and Romans. What we have today is in thanks to the exchange of ideas between these cultures. |
| In earlier times, magic and religion were intertwined. Many gods and lesser spirits, both good and bad were thought to control aspects of life, causing sunshine, rain, prosperity, poverty, and sickness and good health. Magic was designed to appeal or control these spirits like religious practices, magical practices involved rituals and ceremonies that called upon the gods, but instead of worshipping these deities, the magicians sought to control or demand things from them.
Some called upon the gods for assistance when they cast a spell, or utter a curse. Many tried to make the deities appear so they could command the spirit to drive away disease, strike down an enemy. Hundreds of documents were found that stated this was common but often disappointing practice in early Greece and Rome. Now we will end here, and pick up the continuation of this lesson on Magic in Lesson Two. Please answer the questions below. |
| Quiz:
1.) For what purpose, in the Western medieval period, and in the ancient times, did they drawn circles? 2.) Who were the four principal archangels? 3.) Why did people call upon these archangels? 4.) Today Muggles do not believe in Magic, but what does history tell us about the practice of Magic in the ancient times? 5.) For what purpose did they use magic? 6.) Explain the word 'magic' as to what it means in the English language? 7.) Who were the Magi? 8.) During Greek and Roman times, how was the Magi regarded? 9.) Name the many civilizations that magic was handed down over. 10.) How was magic and religion intertwined? |
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