Sicilian traditional magic refers to the folk beliefs and practices of the people of Sicily, an island located in the Mediterranean Sea. Sicilian magic combines elements of various religious traditions, including ancient Greek and Roman religions, Catholicism, and Arab and North African influences. **The main idea:** Sicilian traditional magic is a rich and complex system of beliefs and practices that has been passed down through generations and continues to play a significant role in the lives of many Sicilians today. Sicilian traditional magic is deeply rooted in the belief in the existence of supernatural beings and forces. These beings, known as "jinn" or "spirits," are believed to inhabit the natural world and have the power to influence the lives and fortunes of individuals. They can be benevolent or malevolent, and it is important for people to try to appease these spirits in order to ensure their own well-being.
I think of my grandmother’s use of scrolls as a Benedicaria, a (purposefully?) vague and recent term for Southern Italian or Sicilian traditions of blessings. Benedicaria is at its core Catholic, yet it operates without explicit language, without much ado. In Campania, where I traveled alone last year, it’s translated into do a little holy thing (Fa Lu Santuccio).
Those beautiful bright gifts from heaven; how, years after her death, I d step foot onto Italian soil to taste their sweetness, to wander limoncello-drunk down Duomo steps and through piazzas and little streets. Those beautiful bright gifts from heaven; how, years after her death, I d step foot onto Italian soil to taste their sweetness, to wander limoncello-drunk down Duomo steps and through piazzas and little streets.
They can be benevolent or malevolent, and it is important for people to try to appease these spirits in order to ensure their own well-being. One of the key features of Sicilian traditional magic is the use of amulets and talismans. These objects are believed to have special powers and are used to protect against evil spirits and bring good luck.
Saint John
Happy Saint John’s Day! In Italy as in other parts of Europe, the feast of Saint John the Baptist (or San Giovanni Battista) is inextricably tied to magic, witches, and divination. Celebrated starting the night of June 23 into the day of June 24, the feast was popularized as a Christian alternative to (or innovation on?) the celebration of the summer solstice. Carol Field writes in Celebrating Italy (p. 92):
Christianity simply grafted the pagan fires to the celebration of the Feast of San Giovanni. The prophet was born precisely at midsummer, just as Jesus was born six months later at the turning point of winter, two moments in the calendar that mark passage across a critical threshold. Bearded and dressed in animal skins, subsisting on honey and locusts, San Giovanni also resembles an ancient god of the fields, or the mythical King of the Wood who married the Great Goddess in dark midwinter. Six months later, the King of the Wood was put to death beneath a great sacred oak by his successor. So this sacrificial death, with its intimations of rebirth and renewal, was meant to encourage the fertility of the fields.
Common amulets include the cornicello, which is shaped like a small horn and is believed to ward off the evil eye, and the mano fico, a hand-shaped amulet believed to bring fertility and good fortune. Sicilian traditional magic also involves the practice of divination, in which individuals seek guidance or insight into the future. This can be done through various means, such as reading tarot cards or interpreting dreams. The skilled practitioners of Sicilian traditional magic, known as "streghe" or witches, are often consulted for their expertise in divination. In addition to these practices, Sicilian traditional magic also encompasses various rituals and ceremonies commemorating important life events, such as births, marriages, and deaths. These rituals often involve the use of candles, herbs, and incantations, and are believed to ensure the well-being of individuals and their families. Overall, Sicilian traditional magic is a vibrant and multifaceted aspect of Sicilian culture. It reflects the island's rich history and diverse cultural influences, and continues to provide comfort, guidance, and protection to many Sicilians today..
Reviews for "The Shamanic Roots of Sicilian Traditional Magic"
1. John - 1 star
I found "Sicilian traditional magic" to be extremely disappointing. The book promised to delve into the fascinating world of Sicilian magical practices, but it fell short on multiple fronts. The information provided was surface-level at best and lacked depth. Additionally, the writing style was dry and the book was poorly organized, making it difficult to follow the flow of the content. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone truly interested in learning about Sicilian traditional magic.
2. Sarah - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "Sicilian traditional magic," but unfortunately, it just didn't live up to its promises. The book seemed more like a collection of disjointed anecdotes than a comprehensive guide. I was left feeling unsatisfied and wanting more details on the rituals and practices. Furthermore, the lack of references or citations made it difficult to verify the accuracy of the information presented. Overall, I found the book to be lacking in substance and would not recommend it to others seeking to explore Sicilian traditional magic.
3. Michael - 2 stars
I was intrigued by the concept of "Sicilian traditional magic," but upon reading the book, I was thoroughly disappointed. The information provided was too vague and left me wanting a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, the inclusion of unrelated stories and personal anecdotes seemed to detract from the main focus of traditional magic. I was left feeling confused and unsatisfied with the overall structure and depth of the book. If you're seeking an in-depth exploration of Sicilian traditional magic, I'd recommend looking elsewhere.