Spell Casting is the power to cast/perform spells and rituals in order to achieve a desired magical effect. It is one of the basic powers possessed by all witches. Although a basic power for beings like witches, it is rare for other beings such as demons to possess this power, as it is usually only possessed by powerful, upper-level demons.
- Main article: Spells
Overview
The casting of spells is a central practice in magic, commonly associated with witches but accessible to many other magical beings. Spells range from simple incantations to elaborate rituals requiring intricate preparations and components. At their core, spells are composed of several essential elements that work in harmony to produce a magical outcome.
The majority of spells include a spoken component, known as an incantation, as part of the casting process. These incantations can be expressed in various languages, including foreign or mystical tongues such as Latin[1], Spanish[2], Romanian[3], and Russian[4], or in plain English[5]. When spoken in English, incantations often follow a rhyming couplet structure but are not restricted to this form. According to Charity Callahan, spells typically require a voice to be spoken aloud.[2] However, skilled practitioners can cast spells nonverbally, using gestures or even focused thoughts to achieve the desired effect.[6]
Many spells are accompanied by ritualistic actions, including symbolic movements or gestures, which help align the caster with the spell’s purpose. Some spells demand an elaborate ceremonial context, where intricate preparations and the use of specific components or tools can elevate a spell into a ritual. Rituals can sometimes require multiple participants working in tandem, heightening the energy and precision needed for complex magical tasks. Additionally, some spells or rituals may require the integration of a potion, typically in the form of a paste or powder, to activate or enhance the spell.
Invoking Deities and Other Higher Beings
Certain spells rely on invoking the power of deities or higher beings. These entities act as sources of energy or catalysts to achieve the spell’s intended outcome. Such spells are often complex, requiring a combination of incantations, rituals, and magical tools. Examples of higher beings invoked in spells include:
- Babalú-Ayé: Powers the Exorcism Ritual.[2]
- The Moirai: Invoked in the Invoking the Moirai spell.[5]
- Temeluchus: Called upon in the Tartarus Imprisonment Spell.[3]
- Mamitu, Inanna, Anu: Invoked in the Sacred Flame Extraction Spell.[7]
- Spirits: Often required in Resurrection spells.[4]
- Theia: Powers the Light of Theia spell.[8]
- Indra: Invoked for the Wind Spell.[9][10]
- Goddess of Grey: Called upon in the Smoke Spell.[11]
Trivia
- The ritualistic aspect of this power could be referred to as "Ritual Performing."
- There are rituals that can be performed by mortals who don't have magical powers. For example, in "Manic Pixie Nightmare", it was shown that a dark ritual exists for the fulfillment of desires for those of non-magical origins. Galvin Burdette was also able to perform the Chiriji ritual to save many Hilltowne residents in "Red Rain".
- In "Safe Space", Macy Vaughn was shown incanting a door sealing spell whereas Mel Vera performed the ritual component needed with a potion, showing that at least some spells can be cast conjointly.
- In the original series, most spells were often written in iambic pentameter or as a rhyming couplet. However, other forms of poetry, such as Haikus, could also be used effectively.