Dark magic, also known as black magic or black arts, is a type of magic that is associated with negative or harmful energy and intentions. It is often portrayed as the opposite of light magic, which focuses on healing and positive energy. Dark magic is believed to be more powerful and dangerous than light magic, as it harnesses the dark forces of the universe to achieve its goals. Practitioners of dark magic are often seen as morally corrupt or evil, as they are willing to use their power for selfish or malicious purposes. In many cultures and mythologies, dark magic is associated with demons, the underworld, and other supernatural entities. It is often used to curse or harm others, manipulate or control others' thoughts and actions, and summon or communicate with dark beings.
Although assumed to be, there is actually no definitive proof that Sheela-na-gigs are pagan. There were very few Celtic symbols left to study, and those that do exist do not have any resemblance to this crude figure. Their attribution to paganism may have come from the Victorians, whose prudish morals would have rejected them even being considered Christian.
The horse beside the Sheela-na-gig in Royston Cave is shown with a phallus and has been compared to the 360 foot Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric hill figure made from chalk. Originally, the term pagan was used as an insult for those who continued to worship the old Greek and Roman gods, rather than embracing Christianity.
It is often used to curse or harm others, manipulate or control others' thoughts and actions, and summon or communicate with dark beings. The practice of dark magic is typically shunned or condemned in most societies, as it goes against the principles of love, compassion, and empathy. However, there are individuals who are drawn to the power and allure of dark magic, and actively seek to study and practice it.
Pagan Fertility Symbols
Originally, the term pagan was used as an insult for those who continued to worship the old Greek and Roman gods, rather than embracing Christianity. Technically, a pagan is a person holding any religious beliefs contrary to those of the main world religions, although today it is more often associated with people who worship the Earth.
On the western side of Royston Cave are the carvings of a horse and an earth goddess, known as a Sheela-na-gig. These are said to be pagan fertility symbols and are thought to be the only non-Christian carvings in the cave. Their style appears to be contemporary with the rest of the site but their presence has never been explained.
The carvings of horse and an Earth Goddess, known as a Sheela-na-gig. © Royston CaveAlthough confusing, it’s not that uncommon to find pagan symbols alongside Christian ones. Sheela-na-gigs, for instance, are often found carved into the stonework of churches, particularly from the Norman era. As in the cave, they are depicted as crude representations of a female figure, naked and displaying their genitals. They are linked with fertility because of the sexual nature of their image, but though some do have enlarged breasts or sit beside men with erections, many are flat chested and hag like, and none are ever shown pregnant or with a child. These differences have made it difficult to determine their original meaning. Their presence on churches may have been to warn the parish against lust or sin, or used as a protection symbol against evil spirits, while some suggest it was to promote the fertility of the land in the area, which the community would have relied on for food and money.
Although assumed to be, there is actually no definitive proof that Sheela-na-gigs are pagan. There were very few Celtic symbols left to study, and those that do exist do not have any resemblance to this crude figure. Their attribution to paganism may have come from the Victorians, whose prudish morals would have rejected them even being considered Christian.
The horse beside the Sheela-na-gig in Royston Cave is shown with a phallus and has been compared to the 360 foot Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric hill figure made from chalk. Horses, particularly those that were white, have been revered by many civilisations, including the ancient Greeks, who associated them with warfare, and the Romans, for whom horses were symbols of strength and power. With the rise of Christianity, horse worship declined but the new saints were still sometimes depicted with one.
Both the horse's and Sheela-na-gig’s genitals do not appear in drawings of the cave made by William Stukeley in 1742, or by Joseph Beldam in 1858. This may be because they were later additions or, more likely, because the carvings were censored. Stukeley believed the scene represents the conversion of St Paul instead, depicting the moment that he fell from his horse after being blinded by the sight of God. Rev. Charles Parkin argued that these carvings show the martyrdom of St Hippolite, who was torn apart by wild horses.
There are two sets of concentric circles in the cave; one by the pagan symbols, the other by St George. © Royston Cave
Beside the Sheela-na-gig are the carvings of a sword and a set of concentric circles, another example of which can be seen on the southern side of the cave by the carving of St George. Concentric circles have carried various meanings throughout history. To Druids, who were leaders in the ancient Celtic religion, concentric circles represented three different worlds: Annwn, Arbred and Gwynvyd. The middle ring, Arbred, symbolised the physical world we live in, and the outer ring, Gwynvyd, was a shining realm, a place only glimpsed when in a state of superconsciousness or bliss. At the end of life, the soul may spiral inwards to Annwn, the inner ring, to be reborn, or spiral out to the realm of wisdom or light. Perhaps this carving was to represent a portal to these other worlds. The geomantic and physical position of the cave, situated on the crossing of two ancient highways, has leant itself to the theory that the cave itself was a sacred entrance to the underworld.
To Ley line enthusiasts, patterns such as these, carved onto surfaces, can affect the flow of earth energies in the area. They believe that people used these techniques to manipulate the landscape and concentrate the forces. To others, the positioning of the concentric circles next to swords in the cave suggests a military connection or protection symbol. Similar markings have been found in Chateau Chinon, in France, a prison known to have held Knights Templar.
The horse beside the Sheela-na-gig in Royston Cave is shown with a phallus and has been compared to the 360 foot Uffington White Horse, a prehistoric hill figure made from chalk. Horses, particularly those that were white, have been revered by many civilisations, including the ancient Greeks, who associated them with warfare, and the Romans, for whom horses were symbols of strength and power. With the rise of Christianity, horse worship declined but the new saints were still sometimes depicted with one.
These individuals may be motivated by personal gain, revenge, or a desire for control and power. It is important to note that dark magic is not inherently evil or malicious. Like any form of magic, its morality and intent ultimately depend on the practitioner. While some individuals may use dark magic for harmful purposes, others may use it for protection, defense, or self-preservation. In conclusion, dark magic is a powerful and dangerous form of magic that is associated with negative energy and intentions. While it is often portrayed as evil or immoral, it is important to recognize that its morality depends on the practitioner and their intent. Dark magic has long fascinated humans throughout history, and continues to be a topic of intrigue and debate in various cultural and religious beliefs..
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