Do You Know Hoodoo?

As times have changed, the practice of Hoodoo, Rootwork, and Conjure work has become more prevalent. This was typically a practice that was done in secret, you often didn't know who did it, but sometimes you would have a "worker" in the neighborhood that you knew worked roots or read cards. It almost seemed taboo to some, and maybe it still does.  Many people have been indoctrinated to believe that this work is some type of demonic and dark force, but that is the furthest from the truth. As with anything- religion, spiritual practices; there is polarity- light and dark, and some do more dark workings than others, you can normally tell this- just by looking at the worker's eyes.  This is a work of elevation, healing,  and empowerment in today's times; as it was previously used by our enslaved ancestors for survival. This practice healed with roots and herbs physically and also helped with the oppression of the ancestors who came before us by working with the spirits of the herbs, the roots, and our ancestors for metaphysical uses. 

So what is it? Is it a religion? It is not a religion, but actually a way of life, a set of beliefs and things that you just did. Most workers who grew up in this practice, never heard it referred to as "hoodoo" or anything else, it was just the things that you did, such as spitting on the broom when your foot was swept, eating collard greens and black eyed peas at the beginning of the new year, anointing and praying over a house with olive oil, and asking your ancestors to watch over you. There are many things that we do on a daily basis that we don't realize is part of the practice. 

I know many people who are in the church or have been brought up in the church or raised with Christians views, may look at this as something taboo or may have some hesitation about the practice. You would be surprised how many people "in the church" practice. The backbone of Hoodoo are the ancestors and venerating and honoring them for their sacrifices, in turn their spirit assist us in this physical realm. The bible is also a major component of Hoodoo, you don't have Hoodoo without the bible, and the bible holds power like no other. Just imagine how many people for hundreds of years have placed their energy and faith collectively into the bible? Therefore, anything with that magnitude of dedication and energy will hold power regardless. 

Often times I hear people state they were drawn to this practice, even if they have little knowledge of it. I feel spirit has a way of leading you and it may even be an inclination of some lineage that you may have in the practice. I always suggest doing your research and seeing if this is something that resonates with your spirit. You often know immediately and spirit has a way of leading you down the path that you should go.