Working Conjure: A Guide to Hoodoo Folk Magic

"Working Conjure is a blessing. With the increasing commodification of African American and African Diasporic traditions, books about our practices that are simple, direct, and useful seem few and far between. Hoodoo Sen Moise manages to balance a solid delivery on the practice of Conjure with just enough theory to create a foundation to do this spiritual work—which is not, as he also reminds us, spiritual easy—and to continue the work given to us by our ancestors to heal each other and the world we share."—Mambo Chita Tann, author of Haitian Vodou
 
Conjure, also known as Hoodoo or Rootwork, is an old and powerful system of North American folk magic. Its roots derive primarily from West and Central African spiritual traditions but it developed during the slave trade and its purpose at that time was to help ease the terrible oppression experienced by the slaves. Working Conjure explores the history, culture, principles, fundamentals, and ethics of Conjure, while simultaneously serving as a practical how-to guide for actually doing the work.

Author Hoodoo Sen Moise has been a practitioner for nearly forty years. In Working Conjure, his first book, he shares the techniques and lessons that will bring Hoodoo alive to those who are new to the practice as well as useful and enlightening information for the adept. In the book he:

• Explores the primary materials used in Conjure
• Features spells, rituals, and workings for various purposes
• Guides readers to learn how to bring this profound school of magic to life

“Conjure,” writes Hoodoo Sen Moise, “is not a religion or spiritual path, per se, but rather magic/spiritual work that is done to bring about change in a situation. Whether that situation is a relationship, money, a job, revenge, healing, or cleansing, the fundamental tenet of Conjure is to do work that changes the circumstance.”

Hoodoo Sen Moise (pronounced mo-eez) was raised in Southern Conjure and Hoodoo. As a child, he was taught by his grandfather to speak with the ancestors and, by the age of four, was able to see the spirits and had learned to open the door to power, wisdom, and service. He is now among the foremost authorities on the topic and also an initiated practitioner of several African Diaspora traditions. Hoodoo Sen Moise resides in New Orleans, where he is co-owner of the shop Conjure New Orleans with author Starr Casas. He teaches in New Orleans, Salem, and elsewhere in the United States. Working Conjure is his first book.