The Ouija board has long been a source of fascination, mystery, and controversy. Often associated with the paranormal, it is seen by some as a tool for communication with spirits, while others regard it as nothing more than a board game. Despite its seemingly harmless appearance, many people believe the Ouija board carries significant risks. But where did it originate, and why is it considered dangerous?
The Origins of the Ouija Board
The modern Ouija board first appeared in the late 19th century, during a time of heightened interest in spiritualism. Spiritualism, which gained popularity in the mid-1800s, involved the belief that the living could communicate with the dead. The board became popular in the USA after The American Civil War. With so many families still reeling from the loss of their fathers and sons, it was a natural progression that the families would want to reach out to them. Only a scant few people could get to see a medium, but anyone could buy a board game.
In 1890, Elijah Bond, a businessman, patented the first commercial Ouija board. The board was later produced by the Kennard Novelty Company and gained widespread popularity. It featured a flat board marked with letters, numbers, and the words “yes” and “no.” A small, heart-shaped pointer known as a planchette was used to navigate the board, supposedly guided by unseen forces.
Given a name
By 1901, the rights to the Ouija board were acquired by William Fuld, who further popularised it and even claimed to have received the name “Ouija” from the board itself, via his sister. The Parker Brothers later bought the rights in the 1960s, making it a mass-produced household item. Today, Hasbro owns the rights to the Ouija board, marketing it as a game, despite its eerie reputation.
Is the Ouija Board Dangerous?
The question of whether the Ouija board is dangerous depends on whom you ask. Sceptics argue that the board operates through the ideomotor effect, which is an unconscious movement of the hand caused by psychological suggestion rather than supernatural forces. This movement is so slight that it goes undetected by the human eye. However, spiritual workers and paranormal researchers warn that the board can open doors to unknown entities, some of which may not have good intentions.
The following are some reasons why the Ouija board is considered risky
- Many paranormal researchers believe that not all spirits contacted through the board are benevolent. Some may be deceptive or even malevolent, posing as friendly beings to gain trust.
- Loss of Control, with many Users often feeling they have no control over the board once communication begins. This can lead to unsettling experiences and a sense of fear or paranoia.
- Psychological Impact can be serious, because even those who do not believe in spirits, by engaging with a Ouija board, it can have a significant psychological effect. Fear, anxiety, and suggestion can lead to real distress, nightmares, and paranoia.
- Spiritual Attachments – Some believe that interacting with the board can invite spirits into one’s home or personal life, leading to hauntings or negative experiences that persist long after the session ends. Many poltergeist cases can be traced back to a Ouija board session.
Using the Ouija board without proper knowledge of occult practices and protection can encourage further occult experimentation, potentially exposing untrained and unprepared individuals to deeper spiritual risks, which can be very serious.
Be warned
Ultimately, those considering using a Ouija board should proceed with extreme caution, understanding both its history and the risks it may pose. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, it is clear that the Ouija board has the power to evoke strong reactions and, perhaps, something you will not be able to control
