Definition

Noun: An alleged form of communication with spirits of the dead, typically manifested through a series of knocking or tapping sounds. These sounds are interpreted as coded messages from the spirit world.

Usage

The term "spirit rapping" refers specifically to the phenomenon of unexplained raps or knocks, attributed to spirits, used to answer questions or spell out messages. It is primarily used in the context of spiritualism and paranormal investigation.

Examples

• The séance participants claimed that spirit rapping was how the ghost conveyed its name.
• Early accounts of spirit rapping describe a code where one rap meant "no" and two raps meant "yes."
• She was a noted medium who specialized in spirit rapping.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: "Spirit rapping" was a central feature of the Modern Spiritualism movement that began in the mid-19th century, particularly associated with the Fox sisters in Hydesville, New York.
• As an Activity: The term can describe the event or practice itself.
  • The group engaged in spirit rapping every Friday night.

Variants and Related Words

• Spirit knockings: A less common synonym for spirit rapping.
• Table-turning or table-tipping: A related practice where communication is achieved through the movement of a table.
• Mediumship: The broader practice of acting as a medium to communicate with spirits.
• Séance: A meeting at which people attempt to communicate with the dead, which may involve spirit rapping.

Synonyms

• Spirit knocking
• Spirit taps
• Psychokinesis (in a broader, more modern paranormal context, though not identical)

Related Phrases

• To communicate via raps: This phrase describes the method of the communication.
  • The spirit is said to communicate via raps on the table.
• Rap out a message: A verb phrase describing the action attributed to the spirit.
  • The entity would rap out a message using a complex code.

Noun

1. alleged form of communication with spirits of the dead