Espiritismo: Puerto Rican Mediumship & Magic by Hector Salva is a profound exploration of Puerto Rican Espiritismo, a practice centered around spiritual communication, healing, and personal empowerment. This 240-page softcover book provides a comprehensive guide to the beliefs, rituals, and spiritual practices that define Espiritismo, a tradition that integrates indigenous Taíno, African, and Catholic influences into a uniquely Puerto Rican form of mediumship and folk magic. Salva, a respected practitioner and spiritual teacher, offers readers a well-rounded understanding of Espiritismo, from connecting with ancestors and spirits to performing rituals for protection, guidance, and healing.
Salva begins by introducing the cultural roots of Espiritismo and the significance of Los Espíritus (the spirits) in daily life. He emphasizes the importance of creating a connection with one’s ancestors and spirit guides, who act as protectors and advisors for practitioners. The book provides step-by-step instructions for developing mediumship abilities, setting up spiritual altars, and conducting healing rituals. Salva includes practical methods for divination, protection, and spirit communication, making these practices accessible to both beginners and seasoned practitioners.
What makes Espiritismo truly special is Salva’s emphasis on ethical practice, respect for the spirits, and cultural awareness. His respectful, insightful approach sheds light on the vital role that Espiritismo plays in Puerto Rican culture, offering readers a rich blend of spiritual wisdom and practical guidance. For those interested in Puerto Rican spirituality or learning more about ancestral connections, Espiritismo: Puerto Rican Mediumship & Magic is an invaluable resource.
Espiritismo is the Spanish word for Spiritism or Spiritualism, spiritual traditions that emerged to great popularity in the US following the Civil War.
In the US and Canada, Spiritualism’s primary focus was on communication between the living and the dead. The spiritual tradition traveled around the world, especially in Latin America, where it evolved in different ways.
The Puerto Rican influence on modern Western magic is profound but largely unheralded. Beginning in the early 20th century, Puerto Rican immigrants to the US introduced Espiritismo to the US spiritual landscape, strongly affecting the way magic was practiced. Hector Salva’s book places Puerto Rican Espiritismo in this broader perspective.
About the Author
Papa Hector is the author of The 21 Divisions: Mysteries and Magic of Dominican Voodoo, and his writing has been featured in a number of publications. He teaches workshops domestically and internationally.
