Thaumaturgy

Thaumaturgy refers to the supposed performance of miracles or magic by a human, often involving supernatural powers or divine intervention. It encompasses a range of practices, from healing and prophecy to manipulating natural elements or conjuring spirits. This practice often relies on ritualistic procedures, incantations, and faith in a higher power. The term is derived from Greek, meaning 'wonder-working' and is frequently associated with religious figures, saints, and sorcerers throughout history. The belief in thaumaturgy is prevalent in many cultures and spiritual traditions, playing a significant role in both religious ceremonies and folklore.

Thaumaturgy meaning with examples

• During the religious ceremony, the priest was said to perform acts of thaumaturgy, healing the sick and injured through prayer and the laying on of hands. The believers witnessed what they described as miracles; transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, inspiring a wave of devotion amongst those in attendance and further growing the flock.
• The ancient texts described powerful sorcerers who practiced dark thaumaturgy, summoning demons and casting curses to achieve their goals. Villagers whispered stories of their ability to cause disease and misfortune, ensuring they were held in both awe and contempt.
• The showman claimed his stage act involved a form of modern thaumaturgy, using illusion and sleight of hand to create the appearance of impossible feats like levitation and teleportation, but it wasn't real.
• In various fantasy novels, magic systems are described as forms of thaumaturgy. The characters harness this power and employ complex rituals and incantations, able to bend the laws of the universe and change their environment in profound and exciting ways.