Laity performing Magic
The last post (by Aiko) got me thinking about the 'bans' in certain faiths/paths about laity (for wont of a better word,those not trained as a priest/ess in that specific path) performing magic or certain types of ("advanced")ritual (as opposed to daily salutations or personal rituals).
This is more common I think, in recon and unbroken faiths (Shinto, which was mentioned in the previous post; Hinduism, ethnic shamanisms, etc than in western neo-pagan/neo-wiccan paths.
So I was wondering on peoples opinions. Can/should anyone practice magic and ritual, should there be a distinction between 'clergy' and 'laity' in these areas?
(My personal beliefslie more in the direction that anyone should be able to practice what forms they choose IF they have a proper understanding of what they are doing and why- research, research, research!)
This is more common I think, in recon and unbroken faiths (Shinto, which was mentioned in the previous post; Hinduism, ethnic shamanisms, etc than in western neo-pagan/neo-wiccan paths.
So I was wondering on peoples opinions. Can/should anyone practice magic and ritual, should there be a distinction between 'clergy' and 'laity' in these areas?
(My personal beliefslie more in the direction that anyone should be able to practice what forms they choose IF they have a proper understanding of what they are doing and why- research, research, research!)