by Blake Hall

Created on: July 19, 2010

Just for arguments sake, here is what the Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of magic is.

Although there may be broader definitions elsewhere, this is the most widely accepted one. It is also probably the oldest associated definition for the term itself.

magic

Function : noun

Etymology : Middle English magique, from Middle French, from Latin magice, from Greek magik, feminine of magikos Magian, magical, from magos magus, sorcerer, of Iranian origin; akin to Old Persian magus sorcerer

Date : 14th century

1 a : the use of means (as charms or spells) believed to have supernatural power over natural forces b : magic rites or incantations

2 a : an extraordinary power or influence seemingly from a supernatural source b : something that seems to cast a spell : enchantment

3 : the art of producing illusions by sleight of hand

magic

Function : adjective

Date : 14th century

1 : of or relating to magic

2 a : having seemingly supernatural qualities or powers b : giving a feeling of enchantment

- magical  /  adjective

- magically  /  adverb

magic

Function : transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): magicked; magcking

Date:  1906

1 :  to produce, remove, or influence by magic

It may also be the most prejudiced or biased use of the term historically. Still it is likely to be the one referenced when used in the proper sense of the world, Hence is the truest definition to date.

Why do some pagans use the term Magick, as opposed to the normally associated spelling of the word commonly known as Magic ?

Magick - Using the Anglo-Saxon k, in the broadest sense, is any act designed to cause intentional change.

Since K is the eleventh letter of several alphabets,  eleven is the principal number of Magick. This is relevant because 11 is the number attributed to the the underworld of chaotic forces that have to be mentally conquered so that magickcan be performed by an individual. The idea being that until one can face truth, one does not yet have command of true power. Also, the letter K has magical implications as it corresponds to the power or shakti aspect of creative energy. K is the ancient Egyptian khu, the magical power, and also links the eastern idea of Chi or Key energy.

Magick with a K, is also means of indicating the kind of magic which Aleister Crowley performed ( or magick as described by Crowley who a British occultist ). Crowley preferred the spelling Magick, defining it as "the science and art of causing change to occur in conformity

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