Description
Book SynopsisA rare look into the history, theory, and craft of the black mages and sorcerers of Russia
Born in the Soviet Union and descended from a matrilineal line of witches, Natasha Helvin offers a rare look into the secret practices of Russian black magic, passed down from teacher to disciple for generations both orally and through their grimoires bound in black. Drawing from her own experience, Helvin provides insight into the fundamental ideology of black magic practitioners, from the universal laws of magic to the principles of morality. She explains a mage’s view on fate and predestination, how the world was created, and their relationship with the demons that grant them their power. She examines the demonic pantheon as well as how a black sorcerer is able to influence the forces in the universe and pass on his or her powers and knowledge to further generations.
Exploring the history of occult practices in Russia, including how Christianity had a profound effect upon magic and witchcraft, Helvin shows how attempts to forcibly convert the Russian population to the Christian faith were widely resisted, and instead of these ancient pagan practices disappearing, they blended with Christian belief. Authorities repainted old pagan gods as demons in order to eradicate ancient traditions. Black magic became labelled as defiantly anti-Christian simply for preserving the old ways, and as a result, some branches of black magic evolved as a reaction against enforced Christianity and practitioners proudly accepted the label of “blasphemer” or “heretic.”
Through this book, readers can explore the Left-Hand path of Russian magic and its spells and rituals. The author explains about cemetery magic, sacrifices, the creation of Hell Icons, and places of power, such as crossroads, swamps, and abandoned villages, as well as the best times to practice black magic, how to choose the best grave for your spell, and how to summon demons. Providing many concrete examples of spells, Helvin demonstrates the broad range of what can be accomplished by those who practice the black arts, if they commit themselves to the craft.
Trade Review"A unique and expertly presented study,
Russian Black Magic: The Beliefs and Practices of Heretics and Blasphemers will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to personal, professional, community, and academic library Metaphysical Studies collections in general, and Russian metaphysical supplemental studies lists." * Midwest Book Review *
Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION
What Is Slavic Black Magic?
1 The Birth of Russian Black Magic
2 Veretnics and the Demonic Faith
3 The Demonic Pantheon
4 The Three Forces, the Soul, and Satanism
Black Magic Spellwork
5 Basic Rules and Principles of Magic
6 Principles of Cemetery Magic
7 Cemetery Spells
8 Principles of Church Sorcery
9 Church Spells
10 Blood Magic
11 Pact with the Devil
12 The Thirteen Veretnic Spells of Evil
Index About the Author
