Voodoo dolls have long been shrouded in mystery and fear. They are often associated with curses and dark magic, but the reality is that voodoo dolls are not inherently evil or malicious. In fact, they can be used for positive purposes, such as healing, protection, and empowerment. To protect voodoo dolls, it is important to approach their use with respect and mindfulness. Like any spiritual tool, voodoo dolls should be treated with care and used responsibly. Here are some key ways to protect voodoo dolls: 1.
If you are interested in identifying the unsuspecting influence of New Age religion these core beliefs may be helpful[1]:
The second is like it and is the post-modern belief that all spiritual beliefs are equally true, valid and helpful and must be embraced and affirmed. When I was in Ontario recently I saw a class on the playground in a grove of trees all sitting on prayer mats, with two likely possibilities for this being either that they were i meditating, or ii learning about Islam but we cannot pray to the Christian God in school.
Here are some key ways to protect voodoo dolls: 1. **Set positive intentions**: Before using a voodoo doll, it is essential to set clear and positive intentions. This helps to ensure that the doll is being used for benevolent purposes and not causing harm to anyone.
Voodoo Dolls, Prayer Mats, Yoga and Spiritual Gardens
As more and more people come to reject their Christian heritage and then look for purpose and meaning in other places, the more unhelpful, and indeed harmful spiritual practices are creeping in under our nose. Let me keep you abreast of some of the latest spiritual dangers which are coming (or have already come) to a school near you. This is given because this past week 1 John 4:1-6 encouraged us to TEST THE SPIRITS. There is a spiritual realm we cannot dismiss (Eph 6:10-20). Sadly, many have succumbed to spiritual gullibility.
These four examples are each true and disconcerting ways in which these practices have crept into our schools:
1. Voodoo Dolls. Originally a West African spiritual practice (also present in the Caribbean), which in a nutshell uses dolls to manipulate the spirits to protect you or bring harm to others. Voodoo Dolls, being sold in the UK under various names including Watchover Voodoo Dolls, are being worn by children in our schools who attach them to their backpacks. They believe that the doll is watching over them and that it can be a tool of manipulation. Instead of relying on dolls and false spirits for protection we should look to the Lord (Ps 121:1-2).
2. Prayer Mats. These are utilized in Eastern Religions to aid the process of self-realization (see below). They are also used by Muslims to keep themselves ritually pure while praying (and could also be seen to aid the focus of prayer). When I was in Ontario recently I saw a class on the playground in a grove of trees all sitting on prayer mats, with two likely possibilities for this being either that they were i) meditating, or ii) learning about Islam (but we cannot pray to the Christian God in school?). Prayer is referenced over 500 times in the Bible, so pray is clearly important. While it may be appropriate for Christians to have prayer aids their prayers are to be directed to the Lord; are relational in nature; we fill ourselves with Him (vs. empty ourselves to find self-realization); and prayer can be done anywhere.
3. Yoga. A meditative exercise from Hinduism whereby each pose represents a Hindu god. This is often used in schools under the guise of fitness and also as a means to quiet otherwise unruly children (and sadly in many churches and Christians fitness workouts too). Yoga (Sanskrit- to join or unite) is a series of body movements and exercises designed to unite the body and mind with its end being to find the divine within yourself or to get in touch with your divinity as the highest spiritual end (self-realization). Contrary to this, is the Christian teaching of recognizing yourself as created and coming to know your Creator through Jesus (Ro 1:25). In terms of exercise how about finding appropriate ways to be a steward of the body our Creator entrusted us with, and if we are Christians, to treat it as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19).
4. Spiritual Garden. A place at school where children can go and be encouraged to be “spiritual” by doing who knows what to achieve a rather loosey-goosy state (by the way- being spiritual in a Christian sense can only come when we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit). Why not encourage children to plant a garden so they learn to be good stewards of God’s creation, learn about the species planted and marvel at God’s glory (Ro 1:20)? Then in that context that garden (or other wonderful places in creation) may be a place where they may want to go to talk to God Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
John reminds us to be discerning! Put away all moral filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls, as James 1:21 also reminds us.
It appears to me that society has largely rejected not authentic Christianity but nominal Christianity (they have rejected Christianity without actually having heard the Gospel or experience authentic Christianity) and as one demon (nominal Christianity) has been cast out many other demons far worse than the first have taken its place (cf. Matt 12:43-45).
How has this onslaught of new religions (like Islam) or New Age practices (like yoga) crept in? Two initial reasons emerge. In our liberal and enlightened modern world we have embraced two lies. The first is that as we all know spiritual things do not really exist we can allow people to dabble in whatever they want. As it is not real it cannot possibly hurt them. The second is like it and is the post-modern belief that all spiritual beliefs are equally true, valid and helpful and must be embraced and affirmed.
Oh let us hear and embrace the exclusive and life giving promises of the Lord and fill our schools and society and hearts with them instead of with spiritual rubbish.
Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. (Ps 37:4).
If you are interested in identifying the unsuspecting influence of New Age religion these core beliefs may be helpful[1]:
- Monism (the belief that every diverse thing in the world has its origin in a single source).
- Pantheism or the belief that “all is one and all is God”; God is therefore not a person or a personal creator but “the Force.”
- Humanity’s immortal divinity; the realization of that divinity being the goal for every human being; “Everyone is God.”
- Reincarnation based on the concept of karma (actions and consequences), with good karma moving individuals towards a higher state.
- The ultimate restoration to wholeness of the creation, which is a living being, Gaia, with men and women discovering new powers within themselves that will be released into the earth to right ecological imbalances.
- The disappearance of boundaries leading to the world becoming a global family.
- One universal religion (the belief that all the different religions in the world are alternate paths to the same end).
From examining these you can see many similarities to post-modern views and other current worldviews. At the end of the day not all truths can be true. Holding mutually opposing beliefs can only be held for so long until we reach a breaking point. May we seek the truth before it is too late and may we not be guilty of spiritual gullibility.
The Lord’s Sweetest Blessings,
2. **Cleanse and bless your doll**: Just like any other object connected to spiritual practices, voodoo dolls should be cleansed and blessed regularly. This can be done through the use of sacred herbs, crystals, or ritual baths, as well as prayers or invocations. 3. **Create a protective ritual**: A protective ritual can help establish a safe and sacred space for working with voodoo dolls. This can involve lighting candles, burning incense, or reciting specific prayers or affirmations. 4. **Use only ethical practices**: When working with voodoo dolls, it is important to follow ethical guidelines. This means respecting the free will and sovereignty of others and not using the doll to manipulate or control anyone against their wishes. 5. **Close the energy circle**: When you are finished working with a voodoo doll, it is crucial to close the energy circle. This can be done by thanking any spiritual guides or deities that were invoked during the process and stating that the energy is now released and grounded. Remember, the power of voodoo dolls lies within the intentions and energy that we bring to them. By approaching their use with respect, mindfulness, and positive intentions, we can harness their potential for healing, protection, and empowerment..
Reviews for "The Role of Symbols and Sigils in Voodoo Doll Protection"
1. John - ★☆☆☆☆
I purchased a "Protect voodoo doll" as a novelty gift, but I was extremely disappointed with the product. Firstly, the quality was subpar with loose threads and uneven stitches. Secondly, the doll was much smaller than expected, making it difficult to handle. Lastly, the protective powers claimed by the seller did not live up to the hype. Despite following the instructions to the letter, I did not notice any difference in my luck or fortune. I would not recommend this product as it is overpriced and ineffective.
2. Sarah - ★★☆☆☆
I was intrigued by the idea of a "Protect voodoo doll," and decided to give it a try. Unfortunately, my experience was less than satisfactory. While the doll itself was decently made, the instructions provided were vague and unclear. I found it difficult to understand how to properly utilize the doll for protection. Additionally, I did not notice any change in my luck or protection after using the voodoo doll for several weeks. Overall, I feel like this product was a waste of my money and I would not recommend it to others.
3. Emily - ★★☆☆☆
I was excited to receive the "Protect voodoo doll" as a gift, but my enthusiasm quickly faded. The doll looked cute and well-made, but the protective powers claimed by the seller were nothing more than empty promises. I followed the instructions diligently, but I did not see any tangible results or improvements in my life. Moreover, the price seemed quite high for a small doll that offered no real protection. I would advise potential buyers to save their money and invest in more practical and impactful means of protection.