5 Ancient Magical Practices That Still Influence Us Today

Image by Willgard Krause 

Five Ancient Magical Practices

Magic has shaped human history, helping people understand the world and make sense of the unknown. While ancient magic might seem far removed from our modern lives, its impact is still with us in subtle ways. From protective charms to the power of words. 

Here are five ancient magical practices that continue to influence our lives today.

1. Using Spells and Mantras as Words of Power: 

In ancient cultures like Egypt and India, people believed words held magical power. They used spells, prayers, and mantras not just to protect themselves, but to attract good fortune, health, and success. By speaking these words, they thought they could impact both the physical and spiritual worlds.

Today, we see similar beliefs in practices like affirmations and motivational mantras. People often repeat phrases like "I am capable" or "I am strong" to build confidence and stay positive. While we may not call it magic, this modern form of “self-empowerment” is a way to harness the ancient belief that words can shape our lives.

2. Talismans and Amulets: Ancient Protection in a Modern World

People in ancient times used symbols like the Eye of Horus in Egypt or the evil eye in Greece as protection against harm or bad luck. They believed these charms held special powers to keep them safe from illness or danger.

Today, many people still carry good luck charms or protective symbols, like a horseshoe pendant or a lucky coin. The idea that certain objects can protect us or bring us luck is a direct link to these ancient magical practices.

3. Astrology: A Cosmic Guide to Life

The ancient Babylonians were pioneers in studying the stars to understand human behavior and predict the future. This practice, known as divination, spread to places like Egypt, Greece, and Rome, becoming a big part of their cultures.

Astrology is still popular today, with millions checking their horoscopes for guidance on love, career, and life choices. While it may be less mystical now, astrology remains a modern reminder of our connection to the ancient cosmos.

4. Alchemy: The Quest for Transformation

In ancient Egypt, China, and other places, alchemy was both a science and a spiritual journey. Alchemists aimed to turn common metals into gold and discover an "elixir of life." But beyond physical transformation, alchemy was also about personal growth—turning the “ordinary” into the “extraordinary.”

While we don’t practice alchemy as a science today, its ideas live on in self-help and personal development. Many of today’s self-improvement teachings echo the alchemist’s journey of inner transformation.

5. Fortune-Telling: Seeking Answers from Beyond

For centuries, people have turned to fortune-tellers to understand the future. The ancient Greeks had oracles, the Chinese used the I Ching, and the Romans looked at bird patterns to predict events. These practices were ways of seeking insight from forces beyond human understanding.

Modern tarot readings, astrology, and other fortune-telling methods still attract people today who want to gain insight into life’s mysteries. These practices are a way of connecting with the unknown, much like ancient magic.

Conclusion: Ancient Magic in Modern Times

As we’ve seen, ancient magical practices aren’t just old traditions; they’re living beliefs that continue to touch our lives. Whether it’s in the words we say, the symbols we carry, or the stars we look to, ancient magic is still part of our everyday world.

So next time you read your horoscope or carry a good-luck charm, remember—you’re connecting with a piece of ancient magic.

Want to explore more about these magical traditions? Now you can listen to our new Podcast Thursdays @ 9pm and also, check out our latest YouTube video on Unlocking Ancient Magic, where we dive into the mysteries of the past and their influence on us today.