The Magic of Word and Silence in the Ritual – Formulas and Functions

Abstract

Beliefs and perceptions of word are based on existing mythological layer of culture that has specific mechanisms  and  functions.  This  mythological  context  of  word  determines  its acceptance  as  a magical  tool  that  has  a  certain  force  of  impact.  The  power  of  speech  is invisible, but exactly by the word, the individual and the community identify themselves and provide a link between past, present and future. One of the most significant events of word (or speech) is connected with its use in ritual. The reason of this is that the importance is attached to the ritual and to the consequences of  its performing. Ritual word has an impact on society, and nature and the individual by verbal formulas that contribute to its realization. Depending  on  the  ritual,  word  can  both  perform different  functions  and  act  as  a  specific magical tool.