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Ancient Magic: Difference between revisions
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Many techniques of divination, philtromancy and alchemy used today originate from Slavic traditions. | Many techniques of divination, philtromancy and alchemy used today originate from Slavic traditions. | ||
==== Sakha ==== | |||
The Sakha people, also known as the Yakuts, are a culture native to the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), the largest republic of Russia, located in the Russian Far East, along the Arctic Ocean. They have a rich musical tradition and use the jaw harp, or khomus, as a prominent instrument in their music. In their culture, the khomus is believed to have spiritual and magical properties, and is often used in shamanic rituals. | |||
The use of the khomus in shamanic rituals was linked to the ability to communicate with spirits and the spirit world. | |||
Even today, Sakha magic is based on this music and khomus is used as a magical instrument. Spells are actually cast through specific rhythms and melodies played on the khomus, with different rhythms and melodies used to achieve different effects. | |||
'''Japan''' | |||
Japanese magic and spells are rooted in Shintoism, which is the indigenous religion of Japan. In Shintoism, the world is full of kami, which are spirits or deities that can inhabit natural phenomena, animals, or even humans. Japanese magic and spells often involve rituals and offerings to appease these kami or to ask for their aid in achieving a desired outcome. | |||
In essence, while African traditions summoned spirits to possess objects or places, or simply used spirits they believed present, Japanese tradition courteously petition the spirits for their help with rituals and offerings. | |||
Ofudas, which are paper talismans inscribed with prayers or spells, are commonly used in Japanese magic. They can be used for protection, healing, or to bring good luck. Other talismans, such as omamori, which are small amulets, are also used for protection and good luck. | |||
In addition to talismans, Japanese magic also involves chanting, often accompanied by music and dance. These chants, called norito, are used to communicate with the kami and ask for their assistance. Some of these chants are specific to certain shrines or regions. | |||
Divination is also an important aspect of Japanese magic. One common method is using omikuji, which are fortune-telling strips of paper found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Another method is using sticks or rods called kau cim to receive messages from the kami. | |||
Overall, Japanese magic and spells involve a mixture of rituals, offerings, talismans, chanting, and divination, all with the goal of connecting with the kami and asking for their aid in achieving desired outcomes. | |||
'''India''' | |||
The cultures of the Indian subcontinent are incredibly diverse, with a wide range of beliefs and practices. However, there are some common threads that run through many of these cultures when it comes to magic and spellcasting. | |||
One such common form of magic is Ayurveda, which is a system of traditional medicine that has its roots in ancient India. Ayurvedic practitioners use a range of herbs, spices, and other natural substances to treat illnesses and promote healing. Ayurvedic remedies often involve the use of specific mantras or chants, which are believed to have a powerful effect on the body and mind. | |||
One of the most common forms of magic in the Indian subcontinent is tantra. Tantra is a form of magic that involves the use of rituals, mantras, and symbols to bring about a desired effect. Tantric magic is often associated with Hinduism, but it is also practiced by Buddhists, Jains, and other religious groups in the region. | |||
In Tantra, the body is seen as a microcosm of the universe, and therefore, it is believed that spiritual practices that involve the body can lead to a deeper connection with the universe or the divine. Some tantric practices are still used today. While the practices in Tantra are not limited to one's own body, and may also involve other people and objects, it is primarily used to draw magic into the body and bind it to certain points or aspects of the body. This may allow one to accelerate the healing of wounds, or temporarily quicken one's reflexes or increasing one's speed. | |||
==== China ==== | |||
In traditional Chinese culture, magic is deeply intertwined with philosophy, religion, and medicine. The Chinese believe that everything in the universe is interconnected, and they seek to harness the power of the natural world and the cosmos through their magic. The traditions used in Chinese ancient magic are still alive today. In fact, most Chinese witches and wizards refuse to adapt to more modern forms of magic. | |||
One of the most well-known forms of Chinese magic is Feng Shui, which is the practice of arranging one's environment in a way that harmonizes with the natural world and brings good luck and prosperity. Another important aspect of Chinese magic is the use of talismans, which are objects inscribed with magical symbols and words that are believed to have protective or beneficial properties. | |||
It should be noted that masters of Feng Shui are capable of working magic simply by arranging objects in a certain way. A famous example of this is the story of Huang Qi. | |||
One key aspect of Chinese magic is the concept of Qi (also known as Chi or Ki), which refers to the life force or energy that flows through all living things. Practitioners of Chinese magic believe that Qi can be manipulated and directed through various techniques such as acupuncture, qigong, and meditation to heal the body, improve mental and physical health, and even perform supernatural feats. | |||
Yes, in Chinese culture, tattoos are believed to have magical properties, and are believed to provide protection or enhance a person's abilities, and certain designs and symbols are thought to have specific magical properties. It is thus not uncommon for Chinese [[magi]] to tattoo symbols and patterns onto their body that strengthen their magic. | |||
Another important aspect of Chinese magic is the use of talismans and charms, which are inscribed with magical symbols and characters to ward off evil spirits, protect against harm, and bring good fortune. These talismans can take the form of paper, metal, or even tattoos, and are often used in combination with spells and incantations. | |||
Most principles of artificing used today originate in China, and some of the most skilled artificers in the world hail from there. | |||
Divination is also an important part of Chinese magic, with practitioners using various methods such as I Ching (Book of Changes), astrology, and palmistry to gain insight into the future and make decisions. | |||