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[[File:Maria-Lionza-Tarot.jpg|250px|left]]
[[File:The Black Mass.jpg|200px|left]]
'''[[María Lionza]]''' is a folk [[saint]] and the central figure in the most widespread new religious movement in Venezuela. The cult of María Lionza is a blend of African, indigenous and [[Christianity|Catholic beliefs]]. She is revered as a goddess of nature, love, peace and harmony.
'''[[Black magic]]''' has traditionally referred to the use of supernatural powers or [[ritual magic|magic]] for evil and selfish purposes; or magic associated with [[the Devil]] or other evil spirits. It is also sometimes referred to as the "[[left-hand path]]," (its right-hand path counterpart being benevolent white magic). In modern times, some find that the definition of black magic has been convoluted by people who define magic or ritualistic practices that they disapprove of as black magic.


Her followers call themselves ''Marialionceros'' and refer María Lionza as the "Queen." People go to Sorte mountain seeking for strength, healing and to contact the souls of dead people. During the pilgrimage, the principal shamans and priests of María Lionza come together to pay homage. Many followers wear indigenous costumes and perform a traditional fire walking dance called the "dance of hot coals."
While "[[natural magic]]" became popular among the educated and upper classes of the 16th and 17th century, [[ritual magic]] and folk magic remained subject to persecution. 20th century author Montague Summers generally rejects the definitions of "white" and "black" magic as "contradictory," though he highlights the extent to which all magic, regardless of intent, was considered "black," even magic involving [[angel]]s, because it attempted to subvert the will of [[Yahweh|God]] in favor of the [[magician]].


'''([[María Lionza|Full Article...]])'''
'''([[Black magic|Full Article...]])'''

Latest revision as of 15:54, 12 June 2025

The Black Mass.jpg

Black magic has traditionally referred to the use of supernatural powers or magic for evil and selfish purposes; or magic associated with the Devil or other evil spirits. It is also sometimes referred to as the "left-hand path," (its right-hand path counterpart being benevolent white magic). In modern times, some find that the definition of black magic has been convoluted by people who define magic or ritualistic practices that they disapprove of as black magic.

While "natural magic" became popular among the educated and upper classes of the 16th and 17th century, ritual magic and folk magic remained subject to persecution. 20th century author Montague Summers generally rejects the definitions of "white" and "black" magic as "contradictory," though he highlights the extent to which all magic, regardless of intent, was considered "black," even magic involving angels, because it attempted to subvert the will of God in favor of the magician.

(Full Article...)