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Ritual Consciousness is a state of mind in which magic is best performed. This is an area where meditation is also very useful. From a scientific point of view Ritual Consciousness can be measured in brain wave patterns. These brain waves are referred to as

a) Beta, or normal waking consciousness.

b) Alpha, slight drowsiness, relaxed.

c) Theta, Deeply relaxed, but still aware of surroundings.

d) Delta, Deep Sleep.

In Ancient Greece the trace like state of the Delphic Oracle was induced, in part by the smoke of smouldering herbs.

Theta is the brain wave achieved in meditation and the state we reach in Ritual hence: Ritual Consciousness. It is also the state where divination is best performed. There are different techniques used to bring ourselves to Ritual Consciousness e.g. Meditation, Chanting, Drumming, Dancing, Exhaustion and burning incense made from and Hallucinogenic and Non Hallucinogenic plants.

It is believed that when we are in Ritual Consciousness all areas of the mind are accessible. Especially the areas that we use to perform magic. Magic is performed better when all areas of the mind are open and accessible.

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Murray Byfield © 2000-2002