Re: Magic

daniel pearson (dpears2@gl.umbc.edu)
Fri, 11 Oct 1996 12:21:22 -0400 (EDT)

So far in this thread the torah laws concerning the use of stage magic
have been discussed. While that has been interesting, I have an even more
prickly question. I would like to know more about the halacha (practical
Jewish law) surrounding the use of "real" magic.

I'm not looking for a debate about whether or not such a thing exists.
For now let us assume that it does. There is definitely halacha on the
subject, and I would like to know more about it. Specifically:

*What are the exact limits that the halacha imposes on which
practices?

*How do the miracles performed by the prophets, etc. differ from
other types of thaumaturgy?

*Can the Kabbalah be the halachically acceptable system of magic?
(Or is it, perhaps, centered exclusively upon theurgy and is otherwise
unrelated to thaumaturgy?)

*Does the halacha change when one talks about psi and paranormal
phenomena, as opposed to ritualistic magic?

I am sincerely concerned about violating the mitzvot (commandments), and
would appreciate all who can help me clear away uncertainty.

Daniel Pearson <dpears2@umbc.edu>