Moon magic is the belief that working rituals at the time of different phases of the moon can bring about physical or psychological change or transformation. These rituals have historically occurred on or around the full moon and to a lesser extent the new moon. Such practices are common amongst adherents of pagan, wiccan and witchcraft systems. Witches in Greek and Roman literature, particularly those from Thessaly, were regularly accused of "drawing down the moon" by use of a magic spell. The trick serves to demonstrate their powers (Virgil Eclogues 8.69), to perform a love spell (Suetonius Tiberius 1.8.21) or to extract a magical juice from the moon (Apuleius Metamorphoses 1.3.1).

Wicca

In wiccan groups, such lunar rituals during the full moon are called esbats . There are 13 esbats in total on the wiccan calendar. It is also believed that no magic should be performed during new moons.

Books

Moon Magic is the title of a number of neopagan and new age books:

• Fortune, Dion (1979) Moon Magic. Boston: Weiser Books. ISBN 0877284237. A fictional novel by esoteric author Dion Fortune which is a sequel to The Sea Priestess.

• Jaffer, Hassan (2005) Moon Magic. Willowdale: Astrograph Inc. An annually published astrological self-help guide by astrologer Hassan Jafferm, using lunar cycles.

• Reid, Lori (1998) Moon Magic: How to Use the Moon's Phases to Inspire and Influence Your Relationships, Home Life, and Business. New York, NY: Three Rivers Press. ISBN 0609803476. A self-help guide using the Moon's cycles by astrologer Lori Reid.

See also

• Esbats
• Magic (paranormal)
• Magic and religion
• Wicca
• Witchcraft