introduction to Lévi's exploration of magic, where he challenges common misconceptions that conflates magic with mere trickery or superstition. He asserts that true magic is a profound science, deeply embedded in a philosophical and religious framework, and connects with the essence of the divine. Lévi establishes that the understanding of magic requires an open mind and a serious approach, as he aims to reveal the truths behind magical practices while reaffirming the significance of faith and reason in the pursuit of knowledge. This sets the stage for a deeper investigation into the historical practices of magic and its relationship with different cultures and religions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)