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Hocus Pocus is a generic term used by magicians, usually the magic words spoken when bringing about some sort of change. It is believed that the term originates from the latin form of the Roman Catholic eucharist, when the priest says " hoc est enim corpus meum," or " hoc est corpus" (this is the body), which, through transubstantiation, is supposed to turn the wafer into the body of Jesus.
It was a common term for a magician, juggler or other similar entertainer.
The first recorded speculation on its origin was in 1624 by the English prelate John Tillotson.
- "I will speak of one man ... that went about in King James his time ... who called himself, the Kings Majesties most excellent Hocus Pocus, and so was called, because that at the playing of every Trick, he used to say, Hocus pocus, tontus tabantus, vade celeriter jubeo, a dark composure of words, to blinde the eyes of the beholders, to make his Trick pass the more currently without discovery." Thomas Ady, "A Candle in the Dark" 1655
Hocus Pocus is also
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