Prayers and Spells

I understand that magic spells must be physically done exactly to be effective.
A Catholic prayer can be physically done inexactly, but be effective.

Why is there a difference between prayers and spells?

[norseman]

First, dealing with "magic" - the key aspects are the Will and Intent of the practitioner. The exact words and rituals are almost irrelevant.

Catholic prayers are highly ritualistic and the words are proscribed. There is a cross-over as the Catholic Church uses quite a lot of Magical Forms, the Mass for example is High Ritual Magic in a formal setting.

So there, perhaps, is the difference. Catholic prayers are formal. Whereas non-religious magic tends to be informal.

and we spake them in rhyme :P

I personaly dont see a difference. Its the intent behind them both that make them appear effective. The ins and outs dont really matter, because without intent behind them, prayor or magic isnt being practiced properlu. You have to mean it.

[Spiritlite]

Good question, great answers, can't wait to read the rest of them.
Spiritlite.

Originally Posted by Psychotheosophy

I understand that magic spells must be physically done exactly to be effective.
A Catholic prayer can be physically done inexactly, but be effective.

Why is there a difference between prayers and spells?

IMO magical practices are usually secular and are usually for a specific purpose; such as protection, cursing, healing, etc.

Prayers are petitions to deities to grant something out of favor and grace. Prayers can also be simple praise and thanksgiving for what you already have.

[norseman]

" magical practices are usually secular"
Dunno whether I agree there, Animus. Think about things like weddings, funerals, christenings, mass - IMO they all contain elements of magical rituals.

But weddings and the like are still secular no?

[norseman]

Maybe it's not an either/or. Some prayer rituals have elements of magic in them but some "spells" have elements of prayer ritual in THEM.

Then i think it goes back to my point:

They are both based on intent, the differences are irrelavent