Dictionary of Magic & Occultism - F

false memory Refers to situations where some
therapies and hypnosis may actually be
planting memories through certain suggestions
or leading questions and comments;
thereby creating memories that the patient
or client believes to be true, but in reality
they are not.
fanatical Extreme enthusiasm, frenzy, or zeal
about a particular belief, as in politics or
religion.
Five Pillars of Islam In Arabic, also called the
arkan, and consists of the five sacred ritual
duties believed to be central to mainstream
Muslims’ faith. The five duties are
the confession of faith, performing the five
daily prayers, fasting during the month of
Ramadan, paying alms tax, and performing
at least one sacred pilgrimage to Mecca,
the holy land.
foo fighter A term coined by pilots who
reported sightings of unconventional aircraft
that appeared as nocturnal lights during
World War II. A popular cartoon character
of the time, Smokey Stover, often
said “Where there’s foo there’s fire” and it
became the saying to describe the strange
phenomena.
frieze From the Latin phrygium (opus), meaning
work or craftmanship. A decorative
architectural band, usually running along a
wall, just below the ceiling, often sculpted
with figurines or ornaments.
fulcrum From the Latin fulcire, meaning “to
prop up or support.” The part of something
that acts as its support.