This week's Torah parsha, Naso, contains rituals that seem like magic--a potion that reveals the truth, the consecration of one's hair as a sign of holiness, a formulaic incantation to keep one safe, twelve days of the same exact offerings. Somewhat strange for a religion that tends to rage against sorcery. It's one of those places that seem to harken back to an ancient pagan time.
In Torah study this morning we discussed the issue of ritual vs magic--are they different entities, are they one and the same? Whatever side you weigh in on, there is an element of faith in believing in the outcome.
As I've been thinking about this, I think one difference between them is in expectations. In magic, for the most part, the actions are designed for a specific outcome. Rituals, at least most of the ones in Judaism, are performed to increase mindfulness. With magic, your faith is in what will happen. With the rituals, your faith is in simply being--increasing awareness of life. I'm sure there are exceptions to both, but that seems to be the overriding themes to me at this moment.
If anyone has other thoughts on this, please share them......
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