Significance of Witchcraft
In Hinduism, Witchcraft is depicted as a practice involving malicious magic aimed at causing harm, with various interpretations across texts. It encompasses rituals for countering harmful magic, the strategies of supernatural beings like Rakshasi, and occult practices tied to wealth and manipulation. The concept extends to psychological tactics in warfare, deceptive practices for personal gain, and the use of supernatural powers with malevolent intent. Witchcraft often incites fear and leads to accusations, reflecting its complex societal implications and interpretations in Indian history and literature.
Synonyms: Sorcery, Magic, Necromancy, Enchantment, Conjuring
In Dutch: Hekserij; In Finnish: Noituus; In Spanish: µþ°ù³ÜÂá±ð°ùò¹; In German: Hexerei
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Witchcraft'
Witchcraft in Hinduism involves supernatural practices with potential harm, deception, and illicit activities, including magical abilities, psychological tactics in conflict, and malevolent intentions. It often leads to prosecution and counteractions through rituals and blessings.
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Practices involving magical or supernatural abilities that harm others, leading to prosecution of the accused.[1] (2) The practice of magic, particularly when it involves harmful or malevolent intentions.[2] (3) Occult practices that may be falsely associated with wealth acquisition to induce seditious persons to part with their money.[3] (4) Supernatural practices used to incite fear or disorder within enemy ranks, implying the use of psychological tactics in combat.[4]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) Malicious magic that is being countered by the ritual actions of digging, casting out charms, and invoking blessings.[5]
The concept of Witchcraft in local and regional sources
Witchcraft in the text encompasses magical influence, familial accusations, supernatural practices, and the teaching of sorcery to young girls, highlighting its role in causing harm, manipulation, and societal fear surrounding certain behaviors.
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) A practice that girls are taught when they are young.[6] (2) A practice involving the use of supernatural powers or magic, specifically against the will of young girls in the context provided.[7] (3) The practice of magic performed by witches, which elicits fear and suspicion in the narrator.[8] (4) A form of magic or incantations that Marang Buru imparts to those who seek knowledge.[9] (5) The belief held by the family that the eldest daughter-in-law had used magical powers to cause her father-in-law's death.[10]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The magical influence used by the Rakshasi to cause harm and manipulate circumstances.[11]