Hoodoo Mysteries: Folk Magic, Mysticism & Rituals

Ray Malbrough's books traditionally present magical techniques to a non-denomination-specific audience, and his newest book Hoodoo Mysteries does not deviate from this practice. Rather than segregating denomination-specific practices, Malbrough sees these techniques as applicable to anyone engaging in spiritual study, and thus directs his knowledge at a general audience base. As a result, his work is extremely accessible.

For example, Hoodoo Mysteries may suggest that readers interested in becoming Hoodoo artists (practitioners of Americanised Vodoun) ought to look here. While this is true, Malbrough also presents his material to be of interest to readers curious about applying Hoodoo techniques to their current spiritual paths. For example, the herbal information and the magical and spiritual baths detailed within the text are very practical and of great interest to any folk magician, as are the fascinating and unique associations of planetary energies and deities. The extensive baths section explores a commonly under-used technique, including examining methods involved in preparing baths for a variety of purposes, several recipes and blends, procedures for reciting Psalms and actions to perform. Malbrough also includes a handful of traditional Hoodoo spells in order to illustrate the general techniques and approaches used within the practice, with the aim of inspiring readers to create their own personal Hoodoo works.

Other valuable sections of the text include a thorough introduction to Hoodoo via history and myth-busting to situate the reader at the beginning of the text. Understanding the roots of American folk magic allows the practitioner to develop and flesh out many of the European-based traditions contemporary neo-pagans follow. Another detailed portion of the book is devoted to divination by playing cards and shells. Equally welcome is the appendix concerning religious studies in America.

Slightly more frustrating are the mentions of certain Vodoun techniques that are part of the Hoodoo practice, such as working with the ancestral spirits, which the author describes but cannot provide complete information as the procedures are understandably oath-bound. Ideally, those readers who are interested by these areas will be drawn to explore the path in greater depth, in person with trained Hoodoo or Vodoun practitioners.

All in all, an interesting text, and a welcome contrast to the modern Wicca-heavy magical techniques presented in contemporary books.

(c) 2003 A. Murphy-Hiscock. Originally published in Wyntergreene, Yule (December) 2003.