Magic is the application of beliefs, rituals or actions employed in the belief that they can manipulate natural or supernatural beings and forces. It is a category into which have been placed various beliefs and practices sometimes considered separate from both religion and science.

Magic was invoked in many kinds of rituals and medical formulae, and to counteract evil omens. Defensive or legitimate magic in Mesopotamia (asiputu or masmassutu in the Akkadian language) was incantations and ritual practices intended to alter specific realities. The ancient Mesopotamians believed that magic was the only viable defence against demons, ghosts, and evil sorcerers. To defend themselves against the spirits of those they had wronged, they would leave offerings known as kispu in the person’s tomb in the hope of appeasing them. If that failed, they also sometimes took a figurine of the deceased and buried it in the ground, demanding that the gods eradicate the spirit, or force it to leave the person alone.

Magic and religion are closely related but fundamentally distinct systems of belief and practice within human societies—both aim to engage with the supernatural, but they differ in their approach, function, and underlying philosophy.

Magic and religion have historically intersected and overlapped, especially in rituals and folk traditions. Many cultures blend religious worship with magical practices—for example, the use of spells within religious contexts or the chanting of secret divine names to invoke spiritual power. In societies ranging from ancient shamanistic groups to modern communities practicing Vodou or Santeria, religious observances and magical acts often coexist, reflecting a shared belief in the presence and efficacy of supernatural powers.

How Magic Differs from Religion

• Magic is primarily focused on controlling or manipulating supernatural forces to achieve practical, immediate goals such as healing, protection, or prosperity. It is pragmatic and individualized, typically relying on the correct performance of rituals, the precise use of words or materials, and the expectation of direct results.
• Religion is centered on faith, submission, and supplication toward supernatural beings or forces, often seeking grace, favor, and meaning through prayers and worship. Religious practice is more communal, oriented toward the mysteries of existence, collective morality, and spiritual transcendence.

Anthropological Perspectives

Anthropologists like James Frazer have shaped modern understanding by distinguishing magic as a precursor to religion, and both as stages before the rise of scientific thinking. Frazer argued that magic rests on the belief in the ability to influence nature through specific actions, while religion involves trust in divine will—making outcome less predictable and reliant on faith.

Practical and Social Functions

Both magic and religion serve adaptive and comforting functions, helping individuals and societies cope with uncertainty, stress, and misfortune. Religion, however, extends to building communities, offering long-term hope, and providing moral guidance; magic addresses immediate needs through ritual interventions.

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