We live in a world that is both physical and spiritual, that is an undeniable fact. In every culture, among every people of the planet both ancient and modern, there have been those who have been put here among us that have been given the gifts to better explain, or even tap into those spiritual or metaphysical forces. These people have been called Shamans, Medicine Men, Priests and Rabbis; and among the people of Africa – Obeah Men. Obeah has its origins among the peoples...

As noted in earlier articles, Obeah is not a religion in the traditional sense as it does not have a specific doctrine of faith, formalized rituals, churches, mosques or temples. However it does have its practitioners, and similarities to the more classical religions. Obeah by literal translation means “sorcery.” But it is much more than that. Obeah does involve the use of herbs and potions, charms and amulets, and in that regard resembles folk magic. Its practitioners can...

Throughout the centuries believers of Obeah in Africa and amongst the African Diaspora have turned to the wisdom of the Obeah Men and Women for help. The Obeah practitioners have appealed to the Deities to create spells on the behalf of their followers for many things. To heal disease, ensure good harvests, to protect from evil spirits, or end ghostly possessions. But probably the spell Obeah Men and Woman are best known for are their love spells. Obeah love spells are...

Myths and misconceptions surround Obeah and the rituals of the Obeah Men. Obeah men and women have been called Witches, Warlocks and Practitioners of the “Black Arts.” However most misconceptions arise out of fear, and people fear most what they do not understand. The powers of a true Obeah Man are undeniable, and as such yes he is a force to be reckoned with, but like any force of nature Obeah can wielded for good or ill. Wind can be destructive as a Hurricane, but it can...

The actual origins of the practice and rituals of Obeah have been hotly debated. The true origin of this extraordinarily powerful metaphysical practice no doubt stretches far beyond recorded history and the consciousness of modern scholars. However it is generally agreed that what is most often referred to as Obeah had its origin among the early slave trade. African slaves brought much more with them than their pain and suffering to the Caribbean islands. African religions...

Obeah is sometimes known as Obi, Obia or Obea.  It is a type of religion and folk magic practiced most commonly in the West Indies.  As a religion, it is derived from West Africa, particularly from the Igbo tribes.  It is similar to other African religions, such as Palo, Santeria, Voodoo and hoodoo and is practiced in most Caribbean islands, such as Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Guyana, Belize, and Barbados. Introduction to Obeah What is Obeah? The Nature of Obeah...

When trying to use another spiritual path’s practices, it’s always a good idea to learn more about the history.  In Obeah’s varied history, there are a number of facts which will not only give you a better idea as to why they do the things they do, but this history can give you a better appreciation of the culture and of the magical work that they do.  In learning about where something came from, you can see what your place in its practice is.  Obeah isn’t just about love...