What's the Difference?

Would someone please explain the difference between a legitimate spell and a prayer rite?

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If the outcome is the same.. does it matter?

Yes, because what if the outcome isn't the same?

In my view, they are:

• Spell - a manifestation of energy sent to carry intent
• Prayer - a request to an entity
• Rite - religious ceremony
• Ritual - consistent aspects structured in a spiritual and/or habitual act

Prayers are sometimes considered spells involving deities (mainly petitions), though not everyone sees it this way. Rites are also not strictly religious, though they are mostly seen in religious ceremonies. For example, one can perform a healing rite or ceremony without having to involve divitiy or worship. I tend to view rites as more mysticism (religious practice) than magic. Rituals tend to be more structured, organized, and fleshed out, but also don't need to be religious in nature.

Thanks so much, Eissy.

Eissy puts it very well. A spell is a "ritual wish". Most people have cast a simple spell at some time, without knowing really what they were doing! I was brought up a Catholic,and a devout Catholic would often go into church, buy a small candle, light it from the other candles on the rack, and then say a prayer to a Saint or God. I soon realised from my witch teacher that they were, in fact,casting a spell! But they would say it was a prayer! Not a great deal of difference!

Thanks so much.