Spiritual work requires a struggle against all those elements inside of us and around us that do not want to relinquish their control over our energy and consciousness. Thus, to protect ourselves, we need specific tools like prayers, mantras, conjurations, incense, and knowledge of sacred rituals (magic, from magh, the ancient word for "priest").

The black magicians of the Black Lodge struggle to swerve initiates off the path. This is why it is necessary, urgent, that the devotees defend themselves from the attacks of the tenebrous ones. Thus, it is urgent to learn how to do so. - Samael Aun Weor