The sales ban of certain items on the popular internet marketplace Etsy has once again affected supernatural vendors. After eBay banned the sale of magic-related services in 2012, Etsy became one of the most popular places for these types of vendors to make a living. Initially it's the restriction of metaphysical goods and services...so what can we expect down the road? Here's a recent article describing the new policy at Etsy:
Etsy has riled up its supernatural vendor community after a new ban restricts the sale of spells and potions.
The website, which is used to peddle homemade goods, has placed a moratorium on items which are deemed to be “metaphysical.”
Previously, spells and hexes were allowed to be sold as long as they didn’t guarantee results, and they produced something tangible.
This means that you were allowed to sell a tarot reading, for instance, if it came with a physical item like a candle.
However, the new rules mean that even if a tangible item is delivered, you still can’t sell a metaphysical service that promises an outcome.
Some vendors are now receiving e-mails from Etsy that state: “We’ve recently clarified our spells-related policies in a way that impacts your shop. Because of this, your shop has been suspended.”
“Any metaphysical service that promises or suggests it will effect a physical change (e.g., weight loss) or other outcome (e.g., love, revenge) is not allowed, even if it delivers a tangible item,” reads the new policy.
Of course, Etsy’s witch hunt has caused dismay within the website’s substantial spell-peddling community.
“Swathes of us have now had our sales and shop views tank, and there is great distress in the metaphysical community,” explains one anonymous vendor, speaking to the Daily Dot.
Confusingly, the witches have thus far been unable to work their magic at getting the ban rescinded. Perhaps their spirit animals are now too depressed to function.
Instead, the group has turned to a more natural means of effecting change, by starting a petition against the ban. It’s racked up an impressive 4,000 signatures so far. - Trusted Reviews
NOTE: The sales of oils, incense, crystals and candles for use in spells are still allowed...but they cannot claim magical properties. Some people have pointed out, since Christian tokens such as St. Christopher's medals are still for sale on the site, the new rules also violate religious freedom. Are these internet marketplaces creating a 'slippery slope?' It'll be interesting to see how far the bans are in effect...or if it's expanded to cover all faith-based goods and services. Lon
Grimoire for the Green Witch: A Complete Book of Shadows
- An excellent book. LonThe Candle and the Crossroads: A Book of Appalachian Conjure and Southern Root-Work
Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner
Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft (Llewellyn's Practical Magick)
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