ABSTRACT
SiMIYA or white magic is a subordinate branch of spiritualism ('ilm-i-ruhti:nii), and it is divided into two branches : that which is high and related to Deity ('ulwi, rahmlini), and that which is low and devilish (sijla, shaitani), with the latter of which is connected the black art proper (sihr, jada). Much Musalman magic closely agrees with that of Babylonia, which was always regarded as one of the homes of magic.1 Magic is officially condemned by the Law. 'Whoever obtains a little knowledge of astrology obtains a branch of magic. Whoever goes to a magician and asks about mysteries and believes what he says, verily is displeased with Muhammad and his religion'. ' But there is no fear in making spells which do not associate anything with God '. ' As ye have put faith in Islam, believe not in magic ', 2
The invocation of spirits is an important part of Musalman magic, and this (da'wat) is used for the following purposes: to command the presence of the Jinn and demons who, when it is required of them, cause anything to take place; to establish friendship or enmity between two persons ; to cause the death of a.n enemy ; to increase wealth or salary ; to gain income gratuitously or mysteriously ; to secure the accomplishment of wishes, temporal or spiritual.
