4. Often the witch is thought to "consume" the body or spirit of their victim in some physical or psychical fashion. The physical manifestations would be any disease or illness which casues a lingering, chronic illness.
5. Witches are sometimes thought to derive certain of their powers from a "witchcraft substance", either internal to the body of the witch, or kept in some external, secret place.
Why are women associated with witchcraft?.
Some theories indicate that there is a strong antagonisim between women & men, particularly since witch-doctors/sangomas are men and women are the "witches". Therefore, witchcraft may be regarded as an "effective" measure to keep women subservient in African society. .
Which doctor is the Witch-doctor?.
The witch-doctor AKA sangoma, is one who cures an individual who has been bewitched. The doctor must keep his hands clean from evil and will wield his powers solely in the interests of the health and welfare of the society. Often times, witch-doctors/sangomas are consulted to identify and disarm or destroy the witch responsible for casuing harm. This very often times leads to the hunting & killing of an individual or individuals in a village. .
WITCHCRAFT .
Belief in magic, witches,and witchcraft occurs in many cultures worldwide. "Witchcraft" and "Sorcery" were very much a part of life in Europe until very recently. Infamous trials for those accused of withcraft were held in Salem, Massachusetts just a few hundred years ago. Images of "witches", magic, vampires, vampire killers,etc., are frequently seen on prime time television in shows such as "Charmed" and "Buffy the Vampire Killer". These concepts are often reflected in pop culture and in television advertisements such as the recent ad for "Ray Ban" sunglasses. Movies such as "The Craft" and "Practical Magic" earn millions of dollars. .
African "witchcraft" belief systems have some things in common with European "witchcraft" belief systems.
Intro One morning in late February 1998, Carly Hudson, Erika Allison and Daniel Booher were contacted by Special Agent John Ciccone of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) of the Los Angeles division Group II. With us was Special Agent William Queen. Ciccone knew that Quee...
