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Black magic (or dark magic) traditionally refers to the use of magic or supernatural powers for evil and selfish purposes.[1]
The links and interaction between black magic and religion are many and varied. Beyond black magic's historical persecution by Christianity and its inquisitions, there are links between religious and black magic rituals. For example, 17th-century priest Étienne Guibourg is said to have performed a series of Black Mass rituals with alleged witch Catherine Monvoisin for Madame de Montespan.[2][failed verification] During his period of scholarship, A. E. Waite provided a comprehensive account of black magic practices, rituals and traditions in The Book of Ceremonial Magic (1911).[3]
The influence of popular culture has allowed other practices to be drawn in under the broad banner of black magic, including the concept of Satanism. While the invocation of demons or spirits is an accepted part of black magic, this practice is distinct from the worship or deification of such spiritual beings.[4] The two are usually combined in medieval beliefs about witchcraft.
- ^ Melton 2001.
- ^ Summers 2013, p. [page needed].
- ^ Waite 2011.
- ^ Cite error: The named reference
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