Explain the term sympathetic magic?

Sympathetic magic is a type of magical practice based on the principle that like produces like, or that an object or person can be affected through its connection to something similar. This form of magic is based on the belief that by performing certain rituals or actions on an object or representation of a person, one can influence or control the actual person or object it represents.

There are two main types of sympathetic magic:

1. Law of Similarity: This type of sympathetic magic is based on the idea that things that resemble each other are connected and can influence each other. For example, a voodoo doll that resembles a specific person can be used to cast spells or perform rituals that will affect that person.

2. Law of Contagion: This type of sympathetic magic is based on the belief that things that have been in contact with each other continue to influence each other even after they are separated. For example, using a lock of hair or a personal belonging of a person in a spell or ritual to affect that person.

Overall, sympathetic magic is a belief system that relies on the interconnectedness of all things and the power of symbolism and ritual to influence or control outcomes.