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'''[[African diaspora religion]]s''' are a number of related beliefs that developed in the Americas as a result of the Atlantic Slave Trade. These belief systems are derived from traditional African religions mixed with influences from the more widespread organized religions. However, unlike [[Abrahamic religion]]s, African religions are not idealizations; instead, they seek to come to terms with reality.
A '''[[witch]]''' is a practitioner of [[witchcraft]]. Although the term can be gender-neutral, it is usually used to describe a female who uses [[ritual magic|magic]], while a male engaging in similar practices is called a [[warlock]]. The word witch derives from the Old English nouns ƿiċċa [ˈwittʃɑ] and ƿiċċe [ˈwittʃe] ('sorceress, female witch'). The word's further origins in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European are unclear. The Old English verb ''wiccian'' has a cognate in Middle Low German ''wicken'' (attested from the 13th century, besides ''wichelen'' 'to bewitch').


Because there are so many varied African diaspora religions and such diverse groups who contributed to their development, it is difficult to generalize about their beliefs and rituals. Also, none of these religions have a centralized authority who can dictate how devotees worship. Afro-American religions tend to involve ancestor veneration and include a creator deity along with a pantheon of divine spirits such as the Orisha, Loa, Vodun, Nkisi, and Alusi, among others.
Throughout history there has not been a consistent definition of the term "witch." Johannes Nider and other 15th century writers used the Latin term ''maleficus'' to mean witch—a person who performed ''maleficium'', harmful acts of sorcery, against others.


In addition to the religious syncretism of these traditions, many also incorporate elements of [[Christianity]], including reverence of Catholic [[saint]]s. Other major influences include: Native American religions, [[Spiritualism|Spiritism]], and [[shaman|Shamanism]] (sometimes including the use of [[recreational drug|entheogens]]).
'''([[Witch|Full Article...]])'''
 
'''([[African diaspora religion|Full Article...]])'''

Latest revision as of 05:55, 2 May 2025

Angelene Tubbs.jpg

A witch is a practitioner of witchcraft. Although the term can be gender-neutral, it is usually used to describe a female who uses magic, while a male engaging in similar practices is called a warlock. The word witch derives from the Old English nouns ƿiċċa [ˈwittʃɑ] and ƿiċċe [ˈwittʃe] ('sorceress, female witch'). The word's further origins in Proto-Germanic and Proto-Indo-European are unclear. The Old English verb wiccian has a cognate in Middle Low German wicken (attested from the 13th century, besides wichelen 'to bewitch').

Throughout history there has not been a consistent definition of the term "witch." Johannes Nider and other 15th century writers used the Latin term maleficus to mean witch—a person who performed maleficium, harmful acts of sorcery, against others.

(Full Article...)