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Chinese Black Magic
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Chinese Black Magic
CHINA To injure your enemy, make a figurine of him, damage it, then bury it in the ground with a magic incantation - and he will suffer
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Media ID 581235
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Bury Damage Enemy Figurine Magic Suffer Incantation Injure Paranormal
EDITORS COMMENTS
This intriguing photograph, taken in China around 1912, offers a glimpse into the rich and complex history of Chinese folk magic and beliefs. The image depicts a traditional Chinese ritual intended to inflict harm upon an enemy. The practice, known as "zhang shi" or "ground binding," involved creating a figurine of the intended victim, often made from clay or other materials, and damaging it in some way. Once the figurine was prepared, it would be buried in the ground along with a magic incantation. The belief was that the enemy's misfortune would be transferred to the figurine, causing them to suffer in real life. This practice was deeply rooted in Chinese folklore and was believed to have been used for centuries. While the exact origins of zhang shi are uncertain, it is thought to have been influenced by various cultural and religious traditions, including Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. Despite the passage of time, this ancient tradition continues to fascinate and intrigue us, offering a window into the beliefs and practices of a bygone era. The photograph serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and the complex web of beliefs that have shaped Chinese history and continue to influence Chinese society today. The ground upon which the figurine was buried is stained with the remnants of the ritual, adding to the sense of mystery and intrigue. The photograph itself is a precious historical artifact, preserving a moment in time that might otherwise have been lost to history. The practice of zhang shi may be rooted in the paranormal and the unknown, but it speaks to the power of the human imagination and the enduring human desire to exert control over the world around us.
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