I'm rather new to the concept of magic (mainly because of a recent interest in it after a close friend mentioned it), but not so much to technology. I've been a computer programmer for about 6 years, give or take.
While looking at most spells and exercises (both here and from other sources, usually reporting very similar methods), I'm noticing that almost all spells seem to require certain physical objects. Pentagrams, candles, things like that.
Being a programmer, it dawned on me; how much of this really needs to be physically there? Would a perfect reproduction on a computer monitor provide the same effects, for example, if the monitor drew the pentagram for you, or displayed a video of a candle? The idea of 'magi-tech' is one that I would gladly work on, if it's possible.
(Note: I'm not suggesting that technology be used to replace magic, only to supplement it. I realize that some things (like incense) cannot be as easily digitized.)
Sorry to be double-posting (is that... against the rules here? I saw the chat rules, but none for the forums), but I've come up with a simple proof-of-concept. This is my first attempt at 'MagiTech'. It's basically a program with a single spell 'in' it, specifically the Eye Color Change spell set to orange. It will show the orange candle (flickering) and the pentagram required, as well as the instructions to cast the spell. I had limited success with it, but I'm not exactly a great spellcaster, so if anyone who's seasoned in magic could check it out?
The program requires the Microsoft .NET framework v3.5 or higher to run: http://prototeam.org/ciali_independent/magitechproofofconcept.zip
i suppose it's possible. i'd look in chaos workings if i was u as some of them involve wacky stuff like that.but watch when u post sigils or something as some of them u do not want on ur comp. for instance my last one shut down at random 6 times in a hour because i had a whole folder full of demon,spirit,and angel sigils and seals.real world is better because it wont randomly explode when u pour mass amounts of energy into it.
Egosumlegis: Surely there would be a way to protect the computer. Perhaps by using it as a catalyst, focusing your energy through it but not into it? Either that or some kind of protection spell, I guess.
not really a computer runs off the advanced form of fire which is electricity.you focus your energy into that your basically uping the wattage and causing an overload.sure u can store stuff like you writings,journal etc etc on here. but the truth is it's better to have a real physical sacred space.mostly because of the fact that it makes ritual more personal to you and allows for more leeway and better usage of circles.a circle cast on your computer wont work for crap.and since ur knew learn to walk before you can run.
The concept of using items while performing magic is actually something that is not needed by those really and truly advanced in the art...you see, the reason we use the objects while casting spells is bc it adds to our visualization and gives us a clear point of focus, and visualization and focus are essential to magic... An item is only worth the meaning that you attach to it, there isnt anything "magic" about some of the items used in magic at all because it is the individual who gives them their power...
I too suggest looking into chaos magick if you really want to incorporate technology :D. Not that technology can't be used in other magicks, but they tend to be more nature-based. These items (pentacle, wand, etc) are just tools to help focus your mind and your energy. If looking at a pentacle feels just as good as holding, say, one carved from wood, then go ahead :). Some tools, like the wand or the athame, physically do help to focus energy, but the majority of the power is in the mind.
