Offenses involving magic have long been a matter of concern in various societies and cultures around the world. With the belief in supernatural powers and the existence of a mystical realm, magic has been a subject that elicits both fascination and fear. As a result, engaging in activities related to magic that are deemed offensive or harmful has often been met with strict regulations and punishment. One of the most common offenses involving magic is witchcraft. Throughout history, witchcraft has been associated with dark forces, the devil, and the practice of black magic. Accusations of witchcraft have led to widespread trials, persecutions, and even executions during the infamous witch hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Accusations of witchcraft have led to widespread trials, persecutions, and even executions during the infamous witch hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, although witchcraft is not viewed with the same intensity of fear, it is still regarded as an offense in some countries where it is considered a form of fraud or deception. Another offense involving magic is divination or fortune-telling.
When Governments Go After Witches
In some parts of the world, being suspected of sorcery can result in harsh sentences.
October 30, 2013 ShareFortune teller Bratara ("Bracelet") burns a broom during a magical "Sanziene" ceremony in Bucharest. (Radu Sigheti/Reuters)
Most Western countries stopped executing people for witchcraft by the late 1700s. To this day, however, many governments around the world still pursue people suspected of sorcery. Here are five places where the global hunt for witches continues.
1. Swaziland's Regulations on Broomstick Flight
After a private detective in Swaziland was arrested on charges of violating airspace rules with a makeshift drone last spring, journalists reached out to Sabelo Dlamini, the country's Civil Aviation Authority marketing and corporate affairs director, for a more detailed explanation of the aviation laws in question. The statute sets a clear ceiling of 150 meters, just under 500 feet, on light aircraft, which can include wayward kites or remote-controlled toys. According to Dlamini, though, the edict also covers a more imaginative type of aerial vehicle. “A witch on a broomstick should not fly above the [150-meter] limit,” he said. Witches violating the rule would be subject to the same penalty as other violators, an arrest and a fine of more than $50,000, the South African newspaper The Times reported on its website . No penalties cover “witches flying below” that height, yet.
GlobalPost noted that Dlamini may have “used the flying broomstick example only to illustrate his point” because brooms in Swaziland—small bundles of sticks without handles for riding on—are thought to be used by witches, as The Times notes, only “to fling potions about homesteads” and “not for transport.”
Divination practices, which involve attempting to predict the future or gain insights using supernatural means, have often been met with skepticism and suspicion. Many cultures have tried to regulate or restrict such activities due to concerns about fraud, manipulation, or the potential for individuals to exploit vulnerable individuals seeking answers or guidance. In some cases, the offense involving magic may not be related to specific practices but rather the use of magic for harm or ill-intentions. This can include curses, hexes, or other forms of magical attacks aimed at causing harm or misfortune to others. Such offenses are often viewed as malicious and may be punishable under the legal system, as they involve deliberately causing harm or distress using magical means. It is important to note that beliefs and regulations regarding offenses involving magic vary significantly across cultures and legal systems. What may be considered an offense in one society may be completely acceptable or even celebrated in another. Some cultures embrace magic and view it as a form of spirituality or tradition, while others may consider it a dangerous practice. In conclusion, offenses involving magic have a long history and continue to be a topic of debate and concern in many societies. Whether it is witchcraft, divination, or using magic for harm, various cultures have established regulations and punishments to address such offenses. Understanding the cultural, historical, and legal contexts surrounding magic is crucial to grasp the complexity and diversity of attitudes towards this fascinating and controversial topic..
Reviews for "The Illicit Market: Criminal Activities in the Trade of Magical Artifacts"
- Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Offenses involving magic". The concept seemed interesting, but the execution fell flat. The writing felt disjointed and the characters lacked depth. The plot was predictable and I never felt invested in what was happening. Overall, it was a forgettable read for me.
- Mark - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Offenses involving magic" but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The pacing was off, with long periods of nothing happening followed by rushed, confusing action scenes. The world-building was also lacking, leaving me with more questions than answers. I found it hard to connect with any of the characters and their motivations seemed shallow. It's a shame because the premise had potential, but the execution just didn't cut it.
- Emily - 1 star - I couldn't finish "Offenses involving magic". The writing was so convoluted and overwritten that it made it difficult to follow the story. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it hard to connect with any of the characters. The constant info-dumping was overwhelming and I quickly lost interest. I've read other books about magic that were much better executed, so I can't recommend this one.