The Nazi Perspective on Witches: A Closer Look

The Nazi regime, under the leadership of Adolf Hitler, was known for its complex and often unconventional beliefs. Beneath the facade of a modernized, industrialized state, the Nazis had a deep interest in the occult, including various esoteric practices and beliefs. One example that highlights this interest is the interaction between Heinrich Himmler and a witch from the Ahnenerbe (Institute for German Spirit Research).

Excerpt from an Esoteric Dialogue

Heinrich Himmler, the head of the SS, was known to frequently consult a witch named Frau Gertrud. In one documented conversation, Himmler asked Frau Gertrud if she could cast a spell on Hitler to name him as his heir:

"Frau Gertrud, could you not cast a spell on the Führer so that he would name me as his heir?"

Frau Gertrud explained that she would need several ingredients, starting with the Führer’s pubic hair. To obtain this hair, Himmler mentioned that he knew where to find it, but he wondered how to acquire it. Frau Gertrud suggested doing it while he was sleeping. However, Himmler expressed difficulties with the next ingredient, which was a testicle of the individual, saying it was impossible to obtain without fasting beforehand.

The Role of the Occult in Nazi Beliefs

The Nazis' fascination with the occult went beyond just amusement or superstition. They believed in a profound connection between themselves and Germanic folklore and mythology, aligning themselves with a 'master race.' The belief in supernatural powers held by witches would fit into this grand narrative.

For the Nazis, the concept of a witch was not entirely negative. In some contexts, the use of magic by a pure-blooded witch could be seen as an extension of their racial beliefs. However, their interpretations could be restrictive. If a witch was a gypsy or came from non-Germanic origins, the Nazis would likely have significant issues with it, reflecting their broader xenophobic and racial ideology.

The 'Night Witches'

Interestingly, the only documented reference to witches in relation to the Nazi regime is the 'Night Witches'—a term used for the 588th Night Bomber Regiment of the Red Air Force during World War II.

These étaient a group of female pilots who carried out nighttime bombing raids against German targets. They earned the nickname 'Night Witches' because of the whistling sound made by their biplanes, which was causing fear among the Germans.

The term 'Night Witches' bears no relation to the cultural or esoteric connotations associated with witches in Nazi beliefs. These women were celebrated for their bravery and strategic bombing tactics, proving that the term was perhaps more of a colloquial expression rather than a connection to any supernatural or occult practices.

Conclusion

While the Nazis' interest in the occult was multifaceted and often contradictory, their deep engagement with esoteric practices, including magic and pagan beliefs, is significant in understanding their ideological framework. The documented interaction between Himmler and Frau Gertrud provides a unique glimpse into the Nazi mindset and their complex beliefs. However, their treatment of witches within their policies highlights the complex and often contradictory nature of their racial and ideological doctrines.