Magicb ait catfish are a fascinating variety of catfish that possess unique and captivating characteristics. These extraordinary creatures are native to the deep waters of the Amazon River basin and are known for their vibrant colors and enchanting appearance. One of the most remarkable features of the magicb ait catfish is their ability to change their skin color and patterns according to their surroundings. This incredible camouflage enables them to blend seamlessly into their environment, making them almost invisible to predators and prey. Furthermore, magicb ait catfish possess a special organ called the electroreceptor, which allows them to detect the electrical signals produced by other fish. This remarkable adaptation aids in their feeding process as they can locate and capture their prey even in dark or murky waters.

occultism

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• Learn Religions - Occultism: Western Occult Tradition
• British Library - Discovering Literature: Romantics & Victorians - The Victorian Supernatural
• Christianity.com - What is the Meaning and Beliefs of the Occult?
• Ancient Origins - Royals and the Occult: Witchcraft, Astrology, and Mystical Healing

While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.

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• Learn Religions - Occultism: Western Occult Tradition
• British Library - Discovering Literature: Romantics & Victorians - The Victorian Supernatural
• Christianity.com - What is the Meaning and Beliefs of the Occult?
• Ancient Origins - Royals and the Occult: Witchcraft, Astrology, and Mystical Healing

Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.

occultism, various theories and practices involving a belief in and knowledge or use of supernatural forces or beings. Such beliefs and practices—principally magical or divinatory—have occurred in all human societies throughout recorded history, with considerable variations both in their nature and in the attitude of societies toward them. In the West the term occultism has acquired intellectually and morally pejorative overtones that do not obtain in other societies where the practices and beliefs concerned do not run counter to the prevailing worldview.

Occult practices centre on the presumed ability of the practitioner to manipulate natural laws for personal benefit or on behalf of another; such practices tend to be regarded as evil only when they also involve the breaking of moral laws. Some anthropologists have argued that it is not possible to make a clear-cut distinction between magic—a principal component of occultism—and religion, and this may well be true of the religious systems of some nonliterate societies. The argument does not hold, however, for any of the major religions, which regard both natural and moral law as immutable.

The Western tradition of occultism, as popularly conceived, is of an ancient “secret philosophy” underlying all occult practices. This secret philosophy derives ultimately from Hellenistic magic and alchemy on the one hand and from Jewish mysticism on the other. The principal Hellenistic source is the Corpus Hermeticum, the texts associated with Hermes Trismegistos, which are concerned with astrology and other occult sciences and with spiritual regeneration.

Diagram showing the arrangement of the sefirot, the 10 divine numbers that are part of the process of creation according to the teachings of Kabbala. Illustration from Oedipus Aegyptiacus by Athanasius Kircher, published in the 1650s. (more)

The Jewish element is supplied by the Kabbala (the doctrine of a secret mystical interpretation of the Torah), which had been familiar to scholars in Europe since the Middle Ages and which was linked with the Hermetic texts during the Renaissance. The resulting Hermetic-Kabbalistic tradition, known as Hermetism, incorporated both theory and magical practice, with the latter presented as natural, and thus good, magic, in contrast to the evil magic of sorcery or witchcraft.

Alchemy was also absorbed into the body of Hermetism, and this link was strengthened in the early 17th century with the appearance of Rosicrucianism, an alleged secret brotherhood that utilized alchemical symbolism and taught secret wisdom to its followers, creating a spiritual alchemy that survived the rise of empirical science and enabled Hermetism to pass unscathed into the period of the Enlightenment.

During the 18th century the tradition was taken up by esoterically inclined Freemasons who could not find an occult philosophy within Freemasonry. These enthusiasts persisted, both as individual students of Hermetism and, in continental Europe, as groups of occult practitioners, into the 19th century, when the growth of religious skepticism led to an increased rejection of orthodox religion by the educated and a consequent search for salvation by other means—including occultism.

But those interested turned to new forms of occultism rather than to the Hermetic tradition: on the one hand to spiritualism, the practice of alleged regular communication between the living and the spirits of the dead through a living “medium,” and on the other hand to theosophy, a blend of Western occultism and Eastern mysticism that proved to be a most effective propagator of occultism but whose influence had declined markedly by the late 20th century.

Indeed, despite the 19th-century revival, occult ideas have failed to gain acceptance in academic circles, although they have occasionally influenced the work of major artists, such as the poet William Butler Yeats and the painter Wassily Kandinsky, and occultism in Europe and North America seems destined to remain the province of popular culture.

e-Publications@Marquette

Occultism is derived from the Latin word occultus, which means secret, or hidden. Since it is a word used to describe secret or hidden things it's only natural that the meaning and usage of the term is rather slippery. Generally, occultism refers to spiritual beliefs and practices associated with mysticism, paganism, and esotericism; but these terms are often used synonymously with the word 'occultism,' so they don't she much light on its meaning, and if anything, might deepen the mystery. Occultism has also been used as a term to describe any unorthodox beliefs in religious tradition (Eastern or Western) and is therefore a vague term that can be stretched by the speaker to encompass almost any unfamiliar or disagreeable spiritual practice. Over the course of English anti-Catholicism, for example, infant baptism, transubstantiation, and the use of the bell, book, and candle to perform exorcisms have been termed 'occult' practices by critics of the church.

The inherent mystery and secrecy of the occult may explain why it is so well-suited to many uses in the Gothic mode. Occultism is by its nature a secret known only to a few, passed among secret societies, promising members access to the secrets of of the natural world that have evaded the truth-seekers of science or religion. The secrecy of these practices allows the Gothic writer yet another mechanism to use in playing upon the paranoia and suspicion around Catholicism and science felt by the reader. A fascination with the occult also resonated with the Gothic appeal of antiquity; since occult practices are ancient, and have left their tracks in literature from the ancient Greeks, through Shakespeare's Tempest and beyond.

Perhaps the earliest use of occultism by a character in a Gothic novel is in Matthew Lewis' The Monk. In this case, Matlida infiltrates a monastery by disguising herself as an initiate, and it seems at first as if she is merely a temptress who seeks only to seduce Ambrosio, or perhaps she is truly motivated by affection for him. Soon enough, however, her much more wicked intentions are revealed. Matilda, it turns out, was raised from infancy by a man who was an occult master. She describes him to Ambrosio thus: "His deep researches into causes and effects, his unwearied application to the study of natural philosophy, his profound and unlimited knowledge of the properties and virtues of every gem which enriches the deep, of every herb which the earth produces, at length procured him the distinction which He had sought so long, so earnestly. His curiosity was fully slaked, his ambition amply gratified. He gave laws to the elements; He could reverse the order of nature; His eye read the mandates of futurity, and the infernal Spirits were submissive to his commands." This is a very useful definition of occultism, and it turns out Matilda herself can use a book to summon demons. By the end of the novel she is also able to convince the monk Ambrosio to do the same, thereby sealing his pact forever with the devil and completing his fall from righteousness.

This early use of occultism in the Gothic was about thirty years in advance of perhaps the most famous example, which is Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley's Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus, first published in 1818 and a smash success. Although Shelley does not use the word 'occult,' Frankenstein is inspired to create his monster by the words of Professor Waldman, who says, "The ancient teachers of this science," [. ] "promised impossibilities and performed nothing. The modern masters promise very little; they know that metals cannot be transmuted and that the elixir of life is a chimera but these philosophers, whose hands seem only made to dabble in dirt, and their eyes to pore over the microscope or crucible, have indeed performed miracles. They penetrate into the recesses of nature and show how she works in her hiding-places. They ascend into the heavens; they have discovered how the blood circulates, and the nature of the air we breathe. They have acquired new and almost unlimited powers; they can command the thunders of heaven, mimic the earthquake, and even mock the invisible world with its own shadows." Shelley brilliantly blurs the boundaries of scientific inquiry, alchemy, and occultism. Her main character, Victor Frankenstein, when encountering the creature he created, treats it as he would a demon:
"Devil," I exclaimed, "do you dare approach me? And do not you fear the fierce vengeance of my arm wreaked on your miserable head? Begone, vile insect! Or rather, stay, that I may trample you to dust! And, oh! That I could, with the extinction of your miserable existence, restore those victims whom you have so diabolically murdered!"
"I expected this reception," said the daemon. "All men hate the wretched; how, then, must I be hated, who am miserable beyond all living things! Yet you, my creator, detest and spurn me, thy creature, to whom thou art bound by ties only dissoluble by the annihilation of one of us. You purpose to kill me. How dare you sport thus with life? Do your duty towards me, and I will do mine towards you and the rest of mankind. If you will comply with my conditions, I will leave them and you at peace; but if you refuse, I will glut the maw of death, until it be satiated with the blood of your remaining friends."
"Abhorred monster! Fiend that thou art! The tortures of hell are too mild a vengeance for thy crimes. Wretched devil! You reproach me with your creation, come on, then, that I may extinguish the spark which I so negligently bestowed."
Dr. Frankenstein responds to the monster in much the same way Ambrosio did after summoning Lucifer in The Monk. In this manner, Shelley achieves a fantastic synchronicity: somehow she is able to inspire her reader's fears of modern scientific advancement and the ancient occult and alchemical arts at the same time.

After the phenomenal success of Frankenstein came a Victorian revival of the occult, when it became popular sport for groups of friends to consult their Ouija boards, palmists, and mediums in an attempt to touch the world of the spirits themselves. By the end of the 19th century, occult societies such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn would produce writers such as W.B. Yeats, Algernon Blackwood, and Aleister Crowley.
Courtesy of Wendy Fall, Marquette University

Source:
Hughes, William, David Punter, and Andrew Smith. The Encyclopedia of the Gothic. Chichester, West Sussex, UK : Wiley-Blackwell, 2013. Print.

Witchipedia

This remarkable adaptation aids in their feeding process as they can locate and capture their prey even in dark or murky waters. These captivating creatures exhibit a unique behavior known as parental care. Unlike many other fish species, magicb ait catfish are exceptional parents.

The online encyclopedia of magick, folklore and the occult

Welcome to the Witchipedia's glossary of occult terms. Here you will find terms often used in the Pagan, Heathen, magical and occult communities that may confuse a newcomer. This encyclopedia of magical terminology is a wonderful place to get started if you don't know where to start in the Witchipedia. If you don't see the term you are looking for here, feel free to bring your question to the community in our forums or Ask A Witch!

We have 331 terms listed in our glossary with more being added each day.

What you see on this page is the name and first paragraph of the articles in our occult glossary. To view the full article, please click on the title. You will also be able to comment, ask questions and add more information to the article once you've navigated to its page.

Absinthe - Absinthe is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from wormwood, anise, fennel, and other herbs. Absinthe is a very strong alcoholic beverage that is usually diluted with ice water and melted sugar before drinking. In good quality absinthe, with actual plant oils, ice water makes the absinthe turn from green (or sometimes dark brown) to milky white. Oils are fats which solidify when exposed to cold temperatures.

Acupuncture - Acupuncture is a traditional healing methodology originating in China. It utilizes small needles inserted into the skin at very specific points to direct the flow of chi. Acupuncture is popular in the West as a drug free treatment for chronic pain and nausea associated with surgery or the treatment of certain illnesses.

Adept - One who has studied and mastered (and continues to study) a magical system is often referred to as an adept. Some organizations have formal guidelines for conferring this title upon a member.

Aeromancy - Aeromancy is a form of divination using the element of Air by observing the sky, particularly meteorological and cosmological events, including the movements of clouds, winds and sometimes comets, the appearance of rainbows and other phenomena such as auroras. The word Aeromancy comes from the Greek words aero for "air' and manteia for "divination".

Air Sign - In astrology, three signs are ruled by the element of air. These are Libra, Aquarius and Gemini.

Akasha - Akasha is a Sanskrit word referring to the base material contained in all things. The literal meaning is "space" or "sky" and the closest Western synonym is Aether and it has also been related to modern Paganism's fifth element, Spirit or aether

Alchemist - Alchemy is both a spiritual and magical practice and a philosophy. Its aim is famously to achieve immortality but also to achieve wisdom through transformation of both the alchemist and the substances he manipulates.

Alchemy - Alchemy is both a spiritual and magical practice and a philosophy. Its aim is famously to achieve immortality but also to achieve wisdom through transformation of both the alchemist and the substances he manipulates.

Amulet - An amulet is an object that is carried or worn on a person or placed in a location in order to draw specific energy or luck toward that person or location.

Angels - An angel is a spiritual being of light that serves as a messenger and servant of God in the pantheons of both Abrahamic and Zoroastrian traditions. Some magic-users of various traditions call upon angels for advice, protection or to help them achieve certain tasks. The Enochian magick system is based upon communication with angels.

Animism - The term animism comes from the Latin word anima meaning "life" or "soul".

Anointing oil - Anointing oil is sacred oil, blessed and charged and specially formulated for the purposes of sanctifying or elevating sacred objects or people in the service of a higher purpose.

Aphrodisiac - An aphrodisiac is a substance that stimulates sexual arousal when consumed. The word aphrodisiac comes from the Greek ἀφροδισιακόν, aphrodisiakon meaning "sexual" or "of or pertaining to Aphrodite.

Arete - Arete (ἀρετή) is a Hellenic virtue meaning "excellence". Arete is about being all you can be, the best at what you are, giving it your all, meeting your potential. The word arete is often translated as "virtue".

Aromatherapy - Aromatherapy is the use of fragrance for therapeutic purposes. This often involves the use of essential oils, other plant extracts and various fragrant parts of plants used whole or in pieces. Their fragrance may be inhaled alone, broadcast via a diffuser or added to other products such as massage oils, hygiene products, heat and cold packs and other items used for therapeutic purposes.

Asperge - Asperging is a form of ritual purification involving the sprinkling of liquid on the item, person or area to be purified.

Aspergillum - An aspergillum is a device used for sprinkling water or other liquid for ceremonial purposes. It may be a specifically designed instrument, like a brush or a silver ball on a stick as seen in many Catholic rituals, or it may take the form of plant matter. Many magic-users use branches of specific trees or bundles of specific plants as aspergilla (or aspergillums, both plural forms are correct.)

Astral Body - The astral body is the theoretical subtle or spiritual body, a third option between the eternal soul and the body (according to Platonic theory) though some believe that the astral body and the soul are equivalent. The astral body maintains your personality separate from your physical body, the mind and emotions, separate from the physical brain. Some refer to this body as the etheric body. The word "astral" means "of the stars".

Astral magick - Astral magic is a general term for any magic performed on or using the astral plane or involving astral travel or astral projection.

If you wish to discuss a specific article in this glossary, please click on the article's title and submit your comments in the article's comment section.

How can we improve this section?

The males build nests and guard the eggs until they hatch. They also protect the young fry by sucking them into their mouths whenever there is a perceived threat. This parental care ensures the survival and well-being of their offspring. Magicb ait catfish are mainly carnivorous, feeding on smaller fish, insects, and crustaceans. Their strong jaws and sharp teeth allow them to capture and consume their prey efficiently. However, they are also opportunistic feeders and will scavenge for food when necessary. Due to their captivating appearance and unique characteristics, magicb ait catfish have become sought after by aquarium enthusiasts. However, they can be challenging to maintain in captivity as they require specific water conditions, appropriate tank size, and a varied diet to thrive. In conclusion, magicb ait catfish are truly extraordinary creatures with their ability to change color, detect electrical signals, exhibit parental care, and their captivating appearance. Their presence in the Amazon River basin adds to the diversity and beauty of the underwater world. As we continue to learn more about these fascinating creatures, we gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature..

Reviews for "The Role of Scent in Attracting Catfish with Magic Bait"

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Maximizing Your Catch with Magic Bait for Catfish