Magic vs Magick
There is a lot of confusion surrounding the words “magic” and “magick.” Most people use them interchangeably, but there is a big difference between the two. Magick is the spiritual practice of using your will to manifest change in the world, while magic is the stage performance of illusions and tricks.
The reason for the distinction lies in the letter “k.” When spelled without a “k,” magic refers to stage tricks performed by illusionists and magicians. However, when spelled with the “k,” magick refers to the use of supernatural powers or abilities to achieve the desired outcome.
Interested in learning about witchcraft? Read How to Get Started in Witchcraft or check out the page on Witchcraft.
Aleister Crowley and the History of the Term ‘Magick’
Aleister Crowley was a British occultist and self-proclaimed “magus.” He developed the term “magick” in 1912-1913 and is considered one of the most influential figures in the development of modern occultism.
Crowley was born in 1875 to a wealthy family and was educated at Cambridge University. He later became involved in the occult, and in 1898 he was initiated into the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a secret society dedicated to the study of magick.
Crowley is best known for his contributions to Thelema, a spiritual philosophy he developed based on his teachings. Thelema teaches that each individual has the right to determine their destiny and that personal liberty should be the highest goal of all people.
Crowley died in 1947, but his influence continues to be felt in the occult community. He is considered one of the most important figures in modern occultism and his work has been a major influence on contemporary magickal practices.
What is Magic?
Stage magic is an umbrella term used to describe the type of magic that is performed in front of a live audience. This can include any number of illusions, escapes, and tricks. Magicians who specialize in stage magic often perform at birthday parties, corporate events, and other special occasions.
There are a variety of illusions that can be performed on stage. Some popular examples include making objects appear or disappear, levitating people or objects, and walking through solid objects. Escape tricks are also popular, such as escaping from handcuffs or a locked box.
Many stage magicians use classic tricks that have been passed down through the years. However, some magicians also create illusions.
What is Magick?
Magick is often associated with spiritual practices, as the two are closely related. The goal of magick is to connect with the divine and create a union between the earthly and spiritual realms. This can be achieved through various means, such as meditation, prayer, or ritual.
Magick can be used for both good and evil purposes, but it is most commonly used for healing and positive change. When practiced with pure intentions, magick can be a powerful tool for creating change in your life and the world around you.
Curious as to what magick is? Check out the article What Exactly is Magick.
To Sum it Up
The distinction between magic and magick is an important one, as they are two very different things. Magic refers to the illusions and tricks performed by magicians, while magick is the spiritual practice of using your will to manifest change in the world.
Aleister Crowley was a major figure in the development of modern occultism and his work has been a major influence on contemporary magickal practices. Magick can be used for both good and evil purposes, but when practiced with pure intentions, it can be a powerful tool for creating change in your life and the world around you.
