Welcome To The Magical Realm

Evidence of practical magic was first found in ancient Egypt with a class of priest. The 'magi' are believed to be the ancient version of what we know today as the 'magician'. Researchers have uncovered a large number of Egyptian magical papyri in Greek, Coptic and Demotic. They contain early examples of the use of "magic words", believed to have had the power to command spirits.

Practitioners of magic believe that it is based in natural forces. These magical forces are said to exist alongside the four fundamental forces of nature: gravity, electromagnetism, the strong force and the weak force. These believers are said to be able to manipulate these elements using symbols and other objects. Symbols are believed to magically take on a physical quality of the phenomenon or object that they represent. Through symbols, users can manipulate a target.

If you don't have a rabbit's foot or eye of newt handy - don't despair. Magical powers are believed to exist in your own mind. Renowned writer and mystic Aleister Crowley believes that focusing on an imagined object produces mystical attainment on a magical realm level. Others believe that the subconscious can contact spirits who can grant wishes and desires. This method of magic is comparable to a runner visualizing crossing the finish line in victory or an addict picturing a life that includes sobriety. Both magic and prayer involves worship and possibly sacrifice to a supernatural being or god. This divine being is then expected to act in favor of the individual doing the praying. However, prayer requires the approval of a god. Magic does not require this kind of consent. A master magician can have success by performing a ritual or controlling spiritual beings addressed by his spells.

Most people believe that magic is no more real than Santa Claus and that the magical realm is the stuff of fairy tales. If that's true, why do so many people still practice these ancient rituals? We must consider the fact that not everything can be explained by science and technology. And, perhaps real magic can be found through looking at the world with an open mind.