>>22707Well depends upon which of the multiple definitions of black and white magick we want to use.
Chapter XIMagic Black and WhiteThe use of the word “Magic” in connection with Mental Influence is quite ancient. Occultists make a clear distinction between the use of Mental Influence in a manner conducive to the welfare of others, and its use in a selfish, base manner calculated to work harm on others. Both forms are common and are frequently mentioned in all occult writings.
White Magic has many forms, both in its ancient manifestations and in these latter days of revived occult knowledge. The use of Mental Influence in this way generally takes the form of kindly “treatments” of persons by others having their welfare at heart. In this particular class fall the various treatments of the several cults and schools of what is known as Mental Science, or similar names. These people make a practice of giving treatments, both “present” and “absent,” for the purpose of healing physical ailments and bringing about a normal physical condition of health and strength. Similar treatments are given by some to bring about a condition of Success to others, by imparting to the minds of such persons the vibrations of courage, confidence, energy, etc., which surely make for success along the lines of material occupation, etc.
In the same way one may “treat” adverse conditions surrounding others, bringing the force of the mind and will to bear on these conditions with the idea of changing the prevailing vibrations and bringing harmony from inharmony, and success from failure.
The majority of persons, not informed along these lines, are surrounded by a mental atmosphere arising from the prevailing mental states, thoughts, feelings, etc., and also arising from the thought‑currents which they have attracted to them by the Law of Mental Attraction. These Mental Atmospheres, when once firmly settled around a person, render it most difficult for him to “break away” from their vibrations. He struggles and fights, but the prevailing vibrations are beating down upon him all the time and must produce a strong effect upon even persons of strong wills, unless indeed they have fully acquainted themselves with the laws of Mental Influence and have acquired the power of Concentration. The habit of a lifetime, perhaps, has to be overcome, and besides the constant suggestive vibrations from the mental atmosphere are constantly bringing a pressure to bear upon the person, so that indeed he has a mighty task before him to throw off the old conditions, unaided and alone. And, so, while individual effort is preferable, there comes a time in the lives of many people when “a helping hand,” or rather a “helping mind,” is of great service and aid.
The person coming to the mental aid of a person needing his or her services is performing a most worthy and proper act. We hear a great deal about “interfering with other people’s minds” in such kind and worthy “treatments,” but in many cases there is but little real interference done. The work of the helper is really in the nature of neutralizing and dissipating the unfavorable Mental Influence surrounding the other person, and thereby giving the other person a chance to work out his own mental salvation. It is true that every one must do his own work, but help of a kind above indicated is surely most worthy and proper.