Is it Magic or Magick?

Image of lit candle on an altar and hands holding tarot cards

Magic - the art of producing illusions by sleight of hand or deceptive devices.

Magick - the art of causing change in consciousness.

For too long the words Magic and Magick have been used interchangeably; they are both skilled arts and each has its place. But what are the differences, and why should we care?

To practice magic is to entertain. It is to create an illusion for others to enjoy.

To practice magick is to bring about change. And that is where fear of the unknown has traditionally reared its ugly head. Those that practice magick have often been vilified as evil sorcerers, hidden in the shadows, ready to doom humanity. But that is a definition born out of fear, and as a result, a fear of magick as well.

We all practice magick everyday. Every word we speak, every thought, every word written or read, are all forms of magick. Words and thoughts have power. They change perceptions, motivate actions. And when you share them with others, they become more powerful as they have the potential to transmute the consciousness of others. A person doesn't have to believe in magick to practice it.

To think about the fundamental difference between the two, consider the following:

Magic with a C = coercion

Magic with a K = knowledge

I use the word coercion in the terms of forcing another person to 'see' things in a particular way, especially when it is not so. Knowledge is an act of  'giving' a particular truth.

This is not to say that both magic and magick are either good or evil. Both can be practiced for good or evil intentions. Remember, everything is black and white - two sides to every coin. It is the intention behind an action that marks it as either good, or evil.

Keep that in mind when speaking or writing. Ask yourself if the intention behind your words are from the self, or are they from the Self? Is it ego, or a desire to share what you have learned? And is sharing that knowledge intended to be fruit for others to enjoy if they choose, or are you demanding that everyone is eating the same?

My hope is that you'll consider these words as you practice your magick. Take time to question and evaluate every word and every intention. Even your own.

Blessed be.

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