Witchcraft Explained

Anthony

Witchcraft Explained

Introduction to Witchcraft

Witchcraft, also known as “the craft,” is a standalone practice that has existed globally for centuries and is still present in various forms around the world. It utilizes magic, or “magick,” and while it is often associated with Wicca, it is not a religion in and of itself. It is a personal practice and lifestyle, and in this article, we will delve into the mysteries of Witchcraft, including its differences from Wicca, its various models, and its fascinating history and misconceptions.

The Nature of Witchcraft

Witchcraft, or “sorcery” is a standalone practice that has its roots in animism, the belief that all living and non-living things possess a spirit or soul. It makes use of magic, known as “magick,” to evoke change and manifest desired outcomes.

Witchcraft, as seen through a Baroque lens.

Unlike Wicca, which is a nature-based religion, Witchcraft is not a religion. It is a practice and a lifestyle, rather than a belief system, and is often very personal to each individual witch. Sorcery can be used in various belief systems, including Wicca, but it is not exclusive to Wicca and many witches do not associate themselves with the religion.

Witchcraft does not have any set rules or guidelines, and it is up to the individual’s ethical views and personal practices to determine their approach. This means that the principles that apply to Wicca, such as the rule to “Harm None” and the threefold law, do not necessarily apply to sorcery. It is important to note that Witches and Wiccans are not the same, and it is incorrect to group them together.

Femininity, Magic, and Nature, are all common elements of Witchcraft.

Witchcraft is a diverse and flexible practice that allows practitioners to tailor their approach to suit their own goals and beliefs. It can involve various forms of magick, such as spells, rituals, and divination, and may incorporate a variety of tools and techniques, including herbs, crystals, and other natural elements.

Witchcraft is often focused on self-care and self-development, and practitioners may use it for a variety of purposes, including personal growth, manifestation, and healing. However, it is important to remember that like any other tool or practice, sorcery can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner.

The Differences Between Witchcraft and Wicca

Witchcraft and Wicca are two separate practices that are often misunderstood and conflated by those unfamiliar with them. It is important to understand the distinctions between the two in order to accurately understand and respect their practices.

witchcraft explained
A coven of witches practices witchcraft.

Witchcraft is a standalone practice that has its roots in animism, the belief that all living and non-living things possess a spirit or soul. It makes use of magic, known as “magick,” to evoke change and manifest desired outcomes.

Unlike Wicca, which is a nature-based religion, Witchcraft is not a religion. It is a practice and a lifestyle, rather than a belief system, and is often very personal to each individual witch.

Wicca, on the other hand, is a nature-based religion that worships a goddess and a god and follows a set of ethics known as the Wiccan Rede. Wiccans believe in the power of personal choice and responsibility, and often seek to live in harmony with the natural world. Wicca has its roots in ancient pre-Christian European traditions and was revived in the 20th century by a British civil servant named Gerald Gardner.

Witchcraft can be used in various belief systems, including Wicca, but it is not exclusive to Wicca and many witches do not associate themselves with the religion. Witchcraft does not have any set rules or guidelines, and it is up to the individual’s ethical views and personal practices to determine their approach. This means that the principles that apply to Wicca, such as the rule to “Harm None” and the threefold law, do not necessarily apply to Witchcraft.

It is important to remember that Witches and Wiccans are not the same, and it is incorrect to group them together. Each individual’s path and practices may vary, and it is important to respect and understand the differences between Witchcraft and Wicca.

The Four Models

Witchcraft can be divided into four models, which are different ways of thinking about and approaching the practice. These models are not mutually exclusive and an individual witch’s path may include elements of multiple models.

The psychological model of witchcraft uses the mind and positive thinking to evoke change. This model focuses on mindfulness techniques, the power of intention, and the laws of attraction. It is often called “high magick” because it involves using the mind and physical tools are not necessarily necessary. This model often has a lot in common with modern psychology and uses the placebo effect to its advantage.

The energetic model of witchcraft focuses on the vibrations and energy of objects and how they affect the practitioner. This model uses techniques such as aura reading and energy work to manipulate and balance the energies of the individual and the environment.

The spiritual model of witchcraft involves communication with spirits and deities. This model may involve prayer, meditation, and rituals to connect with and honor these beings.

The faith model of witchcraft is based on a personal belief in the power of the craft. This model may involve a strong sense of connection to the natural world and a belief in the interconnectedness of all things.

Each of these models offers a different approach to practicing witchcraft and allows practitioners to tailor their approach to suit their own goals and beliefs. It is important to remember that, like any other tool or practice, witchcraft can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner.

History of Witchcraft

The history of witchcraft is long and complex, with its origins dating back to the earliest records of human civilization. It has taken various forms and has been practiced in cultures around the world.

witchcraft explained
witchcraft explained
witchcraft explained
Witches as visualized through a Baroque lens.

Witchcraft has its roots in animism, the belief that all living and non-living things possess a spirit or soul. This belief has existed in various cultures throughout history, and has given rise to various forms of magical practices and rituals.

Witchcraft as it is commonly understood today can be traced back to Anglo-Saxon England and Europe in the 5th-8th centuries. However, the practice of witchcraft has existed in various forms in many cultures throughout history.

In the medieval period, witchcraft was often associated with heretical or rebellious practices and was often met with persecution, particularly by the Catholic Church. This persecution reached a peak during the witch trials of the 15th-17th centuries, when thousands of people, mostly women, were accused of practicing witchcraft and were punished, often with execution.

“Previously I never thought of doubting that there were many witches in the world; now, however, when I examine the public record, I find myself believing that there are hardly any…”

Father Friedrich von Spee, S.J., Cautio Criminalis, 1631

In the 20th century, witchcraft experienced a resurgence with the revival of Wicca, a nature-based religion founded by British civil servant Gerald Gardner. Gardner claimed to have been initiated into a coven of witches in the 1930s and used his knowledge of traditional witchcraft practices to create a new, modernized form of the religion.

Today, witchcraft is recognized as a legitimate practice by many governments and organizations and is an important part of the diverse tapestry of spiritual beliefs and practices found in modern society. However, it is still often misunderstood and faces prejudice and discrimination, particularly in some parts of the world.

Misconceptions and Misunderstandings about Witchcraft

Witchcraft has long been misunderstood and shrouded in mystery, and as a result, there are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about the practice.

One common misunderstanding is that witchcraft is inherently evil or satanic. This is a misrepresentation of the practice, as sorcery is a neutral force that can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner. Many practitioners of witchcraft use their skills for self-care and self-development, and do not use their craft for harm.

Another misunderstanding is that witchcraft is solely the domain of women. While it is true that the majority of witches are women, the practice is not limited to any particular gender or sexual orientation. Men, women, and non-binary individuals can all practice sorcery.

There is also a commonly held belief that witches are witches because they have made a pact with the devil or have sold their souls. This is a baseless fear with no basis in reality and is a holdover from the witch trials of the medieval period, when accused witches were often charged with making a pact with the devil.

Despite the many misconceptions and misunderstandings about witchcraft, the practice is increasingly being recognized and accepted as a legitimate belief system. It is important to educate oneself and seek out accurate information about the practice in order to better understand and respect it.

In Conclusion

Witchcraft is a standalone practice that has roots in animism and the belief in the power of magic, or “magick.” It is a practice and a lifestyle, rather than a belief system, and is often very personal to each individual witch.

Witchcraft can be used in various belief systems, including Wicca, but it is not exclusive to Wicca and many witches do not associate themselves with the religion. It has a long and complex history, with its origins dating back to the earliest records of humans, and has survived centuries of persecution.

Despite the many misconceptions and misunderstandings about witchcraft, the practice is increasingly being recognized and accepted as a legitimate belief system. It is important to educate oneself and seek out accurate information about the practice in order to better understand and respect it. To learn more about Witchcraft, contact BKPS, and for another great read check out Shamanic Justice, which is about the way disputes are resolved in Siberia or read Magick in Theory and Practice by the wicked one Aleister Crowley.

A baroque painting of a witch.

Anthony

Witchcraft in New York City

Introduction

The history of Witchcraft in New York City is a rich and varied one, reflecting the diverse cultures and traditions that have converged in the city over the centuries. From the indigenous Lenape people who practiced traditional forms of spiritual and religious expression, to the European settlers who brought their own beliefs and practices with them, the history of witchcraft in New York City is a complex tapestry of influences and traditions.

Early History of Witchcraft in New York City

One of the earliest recorded instances of witchcraft in New York City occurred in 1657, when a group of Native American women were accused of practicing “diabolical and detestable practices” by the Dutch authorities.

These women were believed to be “powwows,” or practitioners of traditional Native American spiritual traditions, and were accused of using their powers to harm others.

Despite the accusations, there is little evidence to suggest that these women were actually practicing witchcraft in the sense of using supernatural powers to harm others.

The arrival of European settlers in New York City brought with it a new set of beliefs and practices surrounding witchcraft. In the late 17th and early 18th centuries, New York City was a hub of religious and cultural diversity, and many different groups practiced their own forms of spiritual expression.

This included the Quakers, who were known for their belief in the Inner Light, a divine spark within each person that allowed them to connect with the divine. The Quakers were also known for their opposition to violence and their commitment to social justice, and many of their practices were seen as radical or unconventional at the time.

During the colonial period, accusations of witchcraft were relatively rare in New York City, and when they did occur, they were usually dismissed as superstition or fraud. However, the Revolutionary War and the subsequent formation of the United States brought about significant changes in the way that witchcraft was perceived in the city.

The Rise of Occult and Supernatural Interests in the United States

The United States has a long history of interest in the occult and supernatural, dating back to the country’s founding. From the Salem witch trials of the 17th century to the spiritualism craze of the 19th century, Americans have been fascinated by the unknown and the unseen.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the occult and supernatural in the United States. This is reflected in the proliferation of occult and supernatural-themed media, such as TV shows, movies, and books, as well as the rise of paranormal investigation groups and supernatural-themed events and festivals.

People ghost hunting, as seen through a Baroque lens.

One factor contributing to the rise in occult and supernatural interests may be a desire for spiritual fulfillment and connection with the divine. Many people are seeking alternative spiritual practices and belief systems that offer a sense of community and connection with something greater than themselves.

Another factor may be a fascination with the unknown and the desire to explore the mysteries of the universe. The popularity of paranormal investigation groups and ghost hunting shows demonstrates a desire to seek out and understand the unseen forces and phenomena that exist in the world.

The rise in occult and supernatural interests in the United States is also reflective of a larger trend towards individualism and a rejection of traditional institutions and belief systems. Many people are seeking out alternative ways of understanding and experiencing the world, and the occult and supernatural offer a wide range of options for exploration and personal growth.

Overall, the rise in occult and supernatural interests in the United States reflects a deep-seated human desire to understand the mysteries of the universe and to connect with something greater than ourselves. Whether driven by spiritual fulfillment, a desire to explore the unknown, or a rejection of traditional institutions, the growing interest in the occult and supernatural is a fascinating aspect of contemporary American culture.

Occult Activity in Late 19th and Early 20th Century New York City

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, New York City was home to a thriving occult scene. This was a time of great cultural and social upheaval, and many people were seeking alternative belief systems and ways of understanding the world. The occult offered a way to tap into the unknown and explore the mysteries of the universe, and it was particularly appealing to artists and intellectuals who were seeking to challenge traditional ways of thinking.

One of the most well-known figures in New York City’s occult scene was Aleister Crowley, a British magician and occultist who founded the Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO) in the city in the early 20th century. Crowley’s OTO was a secret society that combined elements of mysticism, ceremonial magic, and sex magic, and it attracted a diverse and influential membership.

Another influential figure in New York City’s occult scene was Madame Blavatsky, a Russian spiritualist who founded the Theosophical Society in the city in 1875. Blavatsky’s teachings, which blended elements of Eastern and Western spirituality, had a major impact on the development of the New Age movement.

In addition to the OTO and the Theosophical Society, there were many other occult groups and organizations active in New York City during this time, including the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, the Rosicrucian’s, and the Builders of the Adytum. These groups held meetings and lectures, and many also published occult-themed magazines and books.

Overall, the late 19th and early 20th centuries were a time of great interest in the occult in New York City, and the city was home to a vibrant and diverse community of occultists and spiritual seekers. This period laid the foundations for the continued growth and evolution of the occult in the city in the decades to come.

Witchcraft in NYC in Modern Times

In the 20th and 21st centuries, witchcraft and other forms of alternative spiritual expression have become more mainstream in New York City, with a number of openly practicing witches and occultists operating in the city. Today, the city is home to a vibrant and diverse community of people who practice a wide range of spiritual and magical traditions, from Wicca and paganism to traditional Native American spirituality.

There are hundreds of stores in New York City that specialize in supernatural and occult-related merchandise. These stores offer a wide range of products, including books on magic and the occult, crystals and other spiritual tools, and occult-themed clothing and accessories. Many of these stores also offer classes and workshops on topics such as tarot reading, spellwork, and astrology.

In addition to these stores, there are also hundreds of meetups and events in New York City focused on supernatural and occult subjects. These include groups that meet regularly to practice witchcraft and other spiritual traditions, as well as events such as supernatural-themed conventions and paranormal investigations.

In addition to these meetups and events, there are also numerous organizations in New York City dedicated to the study and investigation of the supernatural and the paranormal. These organizations often host events and lectures on subjects such as ghost hunting, psychic development, and other paranormal topics.

In Conclusion

Overall, the abundance of stores, meetups, and events focused on the supernatural and the occult in New York City reflects the city’s diverse and vibrant community of people interested in these subjects. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner of magic and the occult, or simply curious about the supernatural, there is something for everyone in New York City’s rich and varied supernatural and occult scene.

Andrew Arnett

Inside The Haunted ‘Ghost Towers’ Of Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a centuries old city located in southern Vietnam. Its storied, war torn past and huge population density guarantees it to be a ghost filled wonderland. Explore the ghost towers with BKPS.

Since we are currently touring this region, we thought it apropos to visit the famously haunted Thuan Kieu Plaza ‘ghost towers’ located in District 5. Thuan Kieu Plaza is a $55 million apartment and shopping mall complex developed in 1998 by Hong Kong-owned Kings Harmony International Limited and Saigon Real Estate Corporation.

The 100,000-square meter ghost towers features three 33-story towers containing 650 apartments, a three story mall, and is located on Hong Bang Street in the economically prime downtown area. At the time, it was the tallest residential building in the city and was expected to make a mint for its investors. So what could go wrong?

ghost towers
Thuan Kieu Plaza (Image via Andrew Arnett)

Apparently, a number of things could, and did go wrong for Thuan Kieu Plaza, turning it from an upscale apartment complex into an abandoned edifice riddled with malevolent spirits and bad juju. Locals have reported hearing strange noises coming from inside the building at night, crying from the mall elevators, and encounters with creepy people. A mysterious fire occurred during construction, and legend states that financial shortcuts by management, resulting in fatal accidents, led to workers placing a curse on the building.

Another two fires, in 2004 and 2009, occurred in restaurants inside the mall. Also, a man shot his girlfriend, then killed himself, in one of these restaurants – their ghosts allegedly could be heard still wandering and groaning in the building. Others report seeing a Chinese woman, wearing a cheongsam, moving through the building without touching the ground.

Owners claim to suffer from dreams of fires and ghosts taunting them throughout the night. Some of them have, apparently, become stressed and sickened for days by these encounters. Some locals claim that the buildings themselves collect and keep the ghosts in this part of town. How did such a thing come to be?

Thuan Kieu Plaza (Image via Andrew Arnett)

Approaching the plaza by taxi, one can see its three green ghost towers from blocks away, looming over the older and smaller buildings of Cholon, the mostly Chinese section of Ho Chi Minh City. Right from the start, the towers give off an eerie vibe, their presence certainly imposing. In a way, the structure gives the impression of a large ship. And this, according to some, is one of its problems.

People claim that Thuan Kieu Plaza suffers from an egregious case of bad fengshui. Fengshui is, of course, a Chinese philosophical system for harmonizing architecture with the ‘invisible forces’ of the surrounding environment. Apparently, the architects did reference a grand sailing ship in the design, but its three oversized “masts” made it prone to sinking. In addition, a street bisects the middle of the complex, symbolically sending a torpedo into its hull.

ghost towers
Street runs through Thuan Kieu Plaza (Image via Andrew Arnett)

The plaza’s fengshui problems don’t stop there. The three ghost towers, when viewed from a distance, resemble three large incense sticks. In Vietnam, incense is burned only for the dead and, it is feared, these towers act as a beacon to call, and trap, all the spirits in the surrounding area.

As a result of all this negativity, the project, which promised to make investors bank, fell on hard times. Sure, it started off well. According to local real estate agent A Ly, when the building opened in 1998, many bought apartments and rented shops there. At US$40,000 average per apartment, and VND160,000-200,000 to lease a store, Thuan Kieu Plaza was a good deal.

But soon after, according to Ly, owners began to resell or rented out apartments, complaining of a “stuffy” and “dark” atmosphere” inside the building. By 2006, no one was buying into the complex. By 2009, all the stores in the mall were empty, and two of the three towers were abandoned. The third tower contained at best a dozen inhabitants.

Side entrance to Thuan Kieu Plaza Ghost Towers (Image via Thanh Nien News)

Perhaps, though, Thuan Kieu Plaza’s problems stem less from magical causes and,  have more to do with bad economic foresight. Speaking with Tuoi Tre News, architect Luu Trong Hai, one of the original consultants for the project, said the building was built and designed to capture investment by immigrants from Hong Kong who were then expected to flee HK in droves, as a result of the British handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997. But the immigrants never came over.

The building, now ghost towers, was designed smaller than average, at 2.7 meters high, a compact size Hong Kongers are accustomed to. That, and its location in the Chinese hub of Cholon, was the strategy  investors hoped would pay off big, but they miss-calculated. To make matters worst, the apartments were overpriced for their target market. Thuan Kieu Plaza was a bust every way you looked at it.

ghost towers
Thuan Kieu Plaza (Image via Andrew Arnett)

Arriving at Thuan Kieu Plaza, I was expecting an abandoned burnt out cinder block but what I encountered was something totally different. The complex today is a thriving, active oasis – most of the shops in the three story mall were open, people were everywhere, and many of the apartments have been renovated and resold to new occupants. And, there were no ghosts to be found anywhere.

It turns out that, after twenty years of neglect, Thuan Kieu Plaza has just recently been bought out by new owners, renovated and reopened. The new owners are An Dong Corp and they have big plans for the future of the complex. Certainly, the plaza was lively and bustling with restaurants and shops. The few people I spoke to had no recall of ghost stories attached to the place. One security guard, however, did explain to me that the new owners had priests come in to dispel the hex that was earlier placed on the property. Let’s hope for everyone’s sake, that magic holds.

Story by Andrew Arnett

Editor’s note: If you enjoyed this article by co-founder Andrew Arnett check out Pros and Cons of Drunken Ghost Hunting, or AI: Towers of Babel.