Coming up this month we have a class about the creation and conjuring of mojo bags! But a timeless question we seem to always get (and always will!) is, “what is a mojo bag?” “Is it like a voodoo doll?” “Is it like Mojo Jojo?” Well dear reader I hope you’re ready since I’ll try my earnest to clear up some confusion whilst educating you prior to our class!
The mojo bag—known by many names such as gris-gris, or conjure bag—stands as a potent and deeply personal talisman in the rich tapestry of spiritual traditions. A staple item of rootwork, hoodoo, and folk magic, the mojo bag is much more than a simple pouch; it is a living, breathing vessel of intent, filled with prayers, energy, and the sacred materials of the Earth. Its history winds through the crossroads of cultures, faiths, and practices, telling the story of resilience, adaptation, and power.
The origins of the mojo bag can be traced to West Africa, where small, portable bundles known as gris-gris were crafted for protection, healing, and spiritual empowerment. These bundles, often made of cloth or leather, were filled with sacred herbs, stones, and written charms. West African gris-gris bags were also deeply personal and created with specific purposes, often by priests, healers, or diviners who knew the art of invoking spirits and channeling power. The practice of crafting and carrying these talismans was as much about a connection to the ancestors and spirits as it was about the individual’s earthly concerns.
During the transatlantic slave trade, enslaved Africans brought their spiritual traditions to the Americas, including the use of gris-gris. In the United States, particularly in the South, these practices merged with Indigenous and European folk magic to create the uniquely American system known as hoodoo.
The term mojo likely stems from West African and languages, such as the Fula word “mojuba,” which literally translates to thank you; but this word also could also mean “to give thanks,” as in a set of prayers. Some other possible roots could be the Gullah word “moco,” meaning witchcraft.
Over time, these spiritual bags evolved, becoming the mojo hand, which symbolized personal power and agency. The blending of cultures brought new materials into use—such as dirt, roots, coins, lodestones,and written intentions (such as bible verses)—while the core principles of intention and spiritual connection remained unchanged.
Now there is no shortage of uses for mojo bags since you could make a mojo for just about anything!
Some examples include (but not limited to) love, money, gambling, protection, power, success, happy marriage, safe travels, and honestly whatever you put your mind into.
Each bag is crafted with great care, as the items within must harmonize to align with the practitioner’s intent. Ingredients might include herbs, roots, minerals, personal concerns (hair, nail clippings, photos), written petitions, or even a feather to filter out the negative around the user. The bag is traditionally made of red flannel, though other colors may be used depending on the purpose.
The Mojo Bag as a Living Spirit
One of the most intriguing aspects of mojo bags is their identity as a “living” entity. Once assembled, the bag is often “breathed to life” by blowing into it , spitting in or on the bag, or by anointing it with oils to activate its spiritual essence. It is believed that the mojo bag must be fed regularly to maintain its potency, typically with offerings like whiskey, perfume, or spiritual oils. This relationship between the carrier and the bag is sacred. A mojo bag is highly personal and should not be touched by others, as this could disrupt its energy or cause it to lose power. If its purpose is fulfilled or if the bag loses its effectiveness, it is often ceremonially buried or burned, returning its energies to the Earth.
Over time, mojo bags have been influenced by other traditions:
European Folk Magic: The use of written charms, symbols, and Biblical verses often stems from European grimoires and magical practices.
Indigenous Practices: Native American influences introduced local herbs, stones, and other natural items.
Christianity: The integration of Psalms and prayers into mojo bag work highlights the blending of African traditions with Christian faiths adopted by enslaved communities.
These cross-cultural exchanges enriched the practice, creating a uniquely syncretic tradition that carries echoes of many lands and peoples.
Today, mojo bags remain a vital part of hoodoo and folk magic practices. They are crafted by rootworkers, conjurers, and individuals seeking to manifest change in their lives. While their outward appearance has stayed relatively simple, their meaning and purpose are as profound as ever. The making of a mojo bag is an act of devotion, intention, and magic. It bridges the gap between the spiritual and the material, reminding us that the divine is never far away and that our lives are intertwined with the energies of the world around us.
So, whether carried in a pocket, tied discreetly to a garment, or tucked beneath a pillow, the mojo bag continues its ancient work—protecting, blessing, and empowering those who carry it. In its quiet way, it tells a story of survival and faith, passed down through generations as a testament to the enduring power of magic.
Look into how you could sign-up for any future classes by visiting our page about workshops, and look into our blog posts to read about any past events!