This collection of texts, likely from Donald Tyson's "New Millennium Magic," presents a comprehensive overview of a modern approach to magical practice. It challenges traditional views, emphasizing magic as the art of change utilizing contemporary scientific and philosophical insights. The material explores the symbolism of colors, shapes, and numbers, particularly within systems like the Kabbalah, Tarot, and runes, and discusses their application in ritual. It contrasts different forms of magic, such as Practical Magick and High Magick, and addresses the historical conflict between magic, religion, and science, ultimately presenting magic as a path to self-realization and a means of aligning with cosmic law. The texts also cover techniques like magical healing and interacting with psychic entities, emphasizing the importance of inner spiritual work.
Briefing Document: Review of "New Millennium Magic: A Complete System of Self-Realization" by Donald Tyson
Source: Excerpts from "New Millennium Magic: A Complete System of Self-Realization" by Donald Tyson.
Author: Donald Tyson, with a notable bibliography in occult subjects and as editor of works by Henry Cornelius Agrippa.
Overview: These excerpts provide a glimpse into Donald Tyson's comprehensive system of self-realization rooted in occult and magical principles. The text delves into fundamental concepts of creation, the macrocosm (universe) and microcosm (humanity), symbolism (geometric shapes, planetary glyphs, alphabets), and practical magical techniques such as invocation, evocation, sigil creation, dream making, and healing. A core theme is the interconnectedness of all things and the potential for the individual (the magus) to influence reality through understanding and manipulating these underlying forces and symbols. The book appears to be structured in two main parts, "Macrocosm" and "Microcosm," suggesting a movement from understanding the universal principles to applying them personally.
Key Themes and Ideas:
The Nature of Creation and Reality:
* Creation is not a singular event but a continuous process. "It is happening constantly everywhere. In a single second every human being is recreated an infinite number of times." This is likened to the perpetual flame of a candle or a wave.
* Reality can be understood through the metaphor of a torus, where points exist in time and space, and all travel is a spiral motion in both.
* The concept of the Unmanifest, a sea of white light representing all potential, from which manifestation arises through the "primal swirlings" of God's desire.
* The initial act of differentiation from the Unmanifest is the birth of two points (self and reflection), leading to the first dimension (a line) and a "resonating pulse."
Symbolism and its Significance:
Geometric Shapes:
* Upward Red Triangle: Primal Fire, action, masculine, father, 6 units per side.
* Downward Red Triangle: Primal Water, acted upon, feminine, mother, 6 units per side.
* Yellow Circle: Unites opposites, transcends, androgenous, child principle, Elemental Air. Inner circle 7 units (planets), outer circle 9 units (zodiac).
* Black Square: Matter, Elemental Earth, 10 units across. A circle within a square symbolizes "divine will made manifest."
* Silver Background: Primal Chaos.
Planetary Symbolism:
The traditional planetary symbols are not arbitrary but reflect their nature and interrelationship.
* Sun (o) and Moon (l): Pure, single signs representing extreme masculine active and passive feminine poles.
* Jupiter (3) and Saturn (fi): Double-compound, blending solar/lunar qualities with Earth (represented by the cross +). Jupiter is masculine mate of feminine Saturn.
* Mars (6) and Venus (9): Double-compound, blending solar/lunar qualities with Earth (+). Mars is masculine mate of feminine Venus.
* Mercury (v): Unique and balanced, embodying Sun, Moon, and Earth symbols. It has no mate and is "the only planet that combines the solar and lunar symbols." It is balanced and complete, symbolizing magic and the magus.
* Other "Mercury-variants" exist, representing other possible combinations of the three primary symbols, which Tyson suggests should correspond to newly discovered planets.
* Chakra System: The planets are mapped to the chakras based on their polarity and light/shadow attraction. Mercury occupies the heart as the center of balance.
* Number Symbolism: Numbers hold deep significance, e.g., ten is the least possible number of emanations between the visible world and the unknowable All, possibly aligning with superstring theory's dimensions.
* Magical Alphabets: Various alphabets (Hebrew, Runes) are presented as tools for magical work. Runes are described as having intrinsic magical properties and uses (e.g., Isa for stopping change, Algiz for protection, Mannez for mental power/dominance).
Macrocosm and Microcosm:
* The universe is a macrocosm, and each person is a miniature replica, a microcosm. "What is below is like that which is above; and what is above is like that which is below: to accomplish the miracle of the One Thing."
* The human mind at the point of the "true self" is a portal to the Unmanifest. The "perceived self" (ego, body, thoughts, feelings) is distinct from the "true self" (the ultimate vantage of perception).
* Each individual creates a unique "personal universe" based on sensory interaction, thoughts, and dreams, which overlaps with others and is contained within the "personal universe of God." This creation begins with conception and is shaped by societal tools.
Will and Manifestation:
* Will is described as a "ray that joins the desirer to the object of desire." Even looking at something is an act of sending a ray of intent.
* The personal universe is a creation of will acting through the senses.
* The ability to project the point of self along a ray is a powerful and dangerous magical technique, cited in the context of the "evil eye" and even more extreme forms of possession.
Magical Principles and Practices:
* Invocation: Drawing a spirit into oneself or a ritual space, often to align with its qualities or issue commands related to that spirit's domain.
* Evocation: Causing a spirit to appear externally, requiring authority and the use of divine names to compel.
* God-forms: Not merely human creations but aspects of manifestation recognized and "magically circled" by a culture. Assuming a god-form enables the magus to command related forces and learn about suppressed aspects of their nature.
* Spirits: Categorized by their association with planets, zodiacal degrees, or as larvae (created by strong emotions).
* Sigils: Mechanically or intuitively derived symbols, potent when their meaning is understood or when they resonate with the mind-state of the magus.
* Colors: Have magical properties and correspondences, linked to planetary colors and emanating from primal light through primaries, secondaries, and tertiaries.
* Dream Making: Possible during wakefulness, described as creating psychic worlds, referencing the Brontë sisters.
* Magical Instruments: Rings focus the mind and symbolize the point through which will passes.
* Healing: Discussed in terms of mental techniques like transferring pain to an object.
* Meditation and Prayer: Essential practices for connecting with the subconscious and serving as protection. Recommended daily, striving for inner stillness and observing thoughts dispassionately.
* Self-Discipline: Emphasized through physical care (yoga, hygiene), dietary restrictions (clear water, no smoking/alcohol), and sexual moderation.
Destiny, Service, and Happiness:
* Life is an infinite series of choices, leading to diverging possibilities.
* Opposing one's destiny is futile and harmful to the higher self.
* The "golden trine": "Destiny = Service = Happiness." Achieving any one of these automatically achieves the others.
* Destiny is defined as the highest achievement of individual potential.
* Service is fulfilling the greater purpose of one's life, harmonizing with cosmic law.
* Happiness is a transcendent bliss resulting from this alignment.
Most Important Ideas/Facts:
* The interconnectedness of the macrocosm and microcosm, with humanity being a miniature universe.
* The symbolic language of creation and reality through geometric shapes, planets, and alphabets.
* The unique role of Mercury as the balanced, androgynous planet symbolizing the magus.
* The personal universe as a construct of the individual will and senses.
* The power of the will as a "ray" and the potential, and dangers, of projecting the point of self.
* God-forms as recognized and crystallized aspects of manifestation rather than mere human illusions.
* The magical significance and use of colors and alphabets.
* The fundamental equation of self-realization: Destiny = Service = Happiness.
* The distinction between the perceived self and the true self, with the latter being the point of access to the Unmanifest.
Notable Quotes:
"The upward-pointing red triangle stands for primal Fire... The downward-pointing triangle stands for primal Water... The yellow circle embraces and unites the opposites... The black square is the matter of the universe."
"Mercury has no mate, for the simple reason that it embodies both masculine and feminine elements within itself. As a magical symbol, Mercury is balanced and complete."
"This relationship between the seven traditional planets and the Earth is pre- sented clearly and concisely in the following diagram..." (referring to the diagram showing planetary symbols and their components).
"The divine act of creation did not happen once at the beginning of the universe... It is happening constantly everywhere."
"What is below is like that which is above; and what is above is like that which is below: to accomplish the miracle of the One Thing."
"Within the human mind at the point of the absolute, or true, self is a portal through the veil of unknowing."
"ALL IS LIGHT... Within this sea of white light, desire ranged endlessly seeking some limited quality upon which it could fur itself and rest."
"The seventh point is the essential Yes... The eighth point springs into being immediately as a reaction to the initial Yes... The ninth point forms immediately as the tension between Yes and No manifests itself. It is the reconcilement of opposites."
"The perceived self is never the true self. The true self cannot be perceived, since it is the ultimate vantage of perception."
"The personal universe of an individual is that part of manifestation which he or she interacts with through the avenues of the senses, thoughts, or dreams."
"It is the ray that joins the desirer to the object of desire. The ray is will in action."
"Happily, the ability to project the point of self along a ray is difficult to master. It is seldom taught because it is so dangerous, both to the user and the person used."
"God-forms are never the creations of an individual; they are always the work of the group mind of a culture."
"Sigils mechanically derived are similar to words-if their meaning is not understood they remain so many squiggles of ink on paper, utterly impotent. Sig- ils intuitively derived can possess latent symbolic power in their very shapes..."
"Care for your physical appearance as though you were making yourself ready for an introduction to a very important and special person..."
"Destiny = Service = Happiness" (the golden trine equation).
"The perceived self is often unconsciously extended to include the aura... or even to external persons, places or things. SELF, TRUE... The actual center of awareness in a human being that cannot itself be perceived or inspected..."
Structure of the Book (based on Contents):
The book progresses from the universal ("Macrocosm") to the personal ("Microcosm"), covering:
* Part I: Macrocosm: Unmanifest, Creation, Light, Serpentine, geometric shapes (Circle, Spiral, Point, Ray, Cross, Triangle, Square, Pentagram, Hexagram, Heptagram, Octagram, Nonagram, Decagram, Hendecagram, Dodecagram), and the concept of "Twenty-two Doors."
* Part II: Microcosm: Magic, Initiation, Instruments, Three Temples, Ritual, Inspiration, Invocation, Evocation, Guardian, God-forms, Telesmatic Images, Sigils, Colors, Dream Making, Three Weapons, Finger Magic, Alphabets, Healing, The Path, Magus, End Notes, Glossary, Index.
Potential Areas of Interest for Further Exploration:
* The detailed explanations of each geometric shape and its symbolic meaning.
* The system of Mercury-variants and their proposed linkage to outer planets.
* The specific correspondences between planets and chakras.
* The application of magical alphabets and runes in practice.
* The techniques for dream making and healing.
* The practical methods for invocation and evocation described in the text.
* The "golden trine" concept and its implications for personal development.
* The glossary provides definitions of key terms like "Point," "Self, Perceived," "Self, True," and "Universe, Personal."
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the "personal universe" and how is it created according to this system?
The personal universe is the portion of reality that an individual interacts with through their senses, thoughts, and dreams. It's a unique mental construct for each person, overlapping with others but never exactly the same. This personal universe begins to be created at conception. From a central "point of self," the individual perceives the emanations from the Unmanifest, initially experiencing terror and frustration at their inability to control them. To cope, the developing being starts to confine and manipulate these manifestations mentally, essentially "bottling" the divine lights to make them manageable and less overwhelming. This process is accelerated by the shock of birth and is aided by the symbolic tools and structures provided by society.
How are the seven traditional planets understood symbolically and energetically in this system?
The seven traditional planets are viewed as more than arbitrary astrological tokens; their symbols reflect their inherent nature and relationships. The Sun and Moon are seen as a pure, single-sign pair representing extreme masculine (active) and feminine (passive) poles, respectively. Jupiter and Saturn form another pair, a masculine mate to a feminine one, as do Mars and Venus. Their symbols are "double-compound," blending the solar or lunar quality with the symbol of Earth (a cross). Mercury is unique, embodying both masculine and feminine elements and combining the symbols of the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Due to its balance, Mercury is considered complete and stands apart, often associated with the magus and magic. The system also suggests that the traditional planetary symbols, and potentially others yet to be discovered, are limited to specific permutations of the three primary symbols (Sun, Moon, Earth).
What is the significance of geometric shapes like the triangle, circle, square, and pentagram?
Geometric shapes are fundamental symbols representing core principles of existence. The upward-pointing red triangle symbolizes primal Fire, the masculine impulse to action, and the Father principle. The downward-pointing triangle represents primal Water, the feminine ground that is acted upon, and the Mother principle. The yellow circle symbolizes Air, embracing and uniting opposites to create a new generation and the child principle, and is associated with the limit of the planets and the zodiac. The black square represents the matter of the universe (Earth). The circle surrounded by the square signifies divine will made manifest, embodying the concept of "squaring the circle." Other shapes like the pentagram and hexagram are also discussed as significant symbols in this system, likely representing more complex relationships and energies as detailed in their dedicated chapters.
How does the concept of the "point" relate to creation and the "true self"?
The point is a fundamental concept in this system, described as a mathematical point without dimension or substance that emerges from the endless sea of white light (the Unmanifest). This point provides a vantage for the awareness of God to consider itself, leading to the creation of a second, reflecting point. This act of consideration between two points forms the first dimension, a line. In the context of the individual, the "true self" is the point at the center of the personal universe, infinitely small and thus existing outside the manifest world as it cannot be perceived. It's the ultimate vantage of perception, a portal to the Unmanifest. Every point in the universe can become the center point if occupied by the awareness of God, or by the magus considering it as such. The universe itself is described as an expanded point, and passage through this point is achieved through the projection of will along a "ray."
What is the understanding of creation as a continuous process?
This system posits that divine creation is not a singular event that occurred at the beginning of the universe or a life. Instead, it is a constant, ongoing process happening everywhere simultaneously. The analogy of a candle flame is used to illustrate this idea: the flame exists, has form, and endures, yet it is continuously composed of "nothingness" that rises, forms, and vanishes. Similarly, human beings are seen as being recreated an infinite number of times every second. This continuous creation is linked to the idea that if the Sun and Moon (symbols of fundamental principles) were to doubt, they would cease to exist, emphasizing the importance of the continuous divine impulse.
How are the concepts of "Yes," "No," and "Yes/No" explained in terms of fundamental principles?
These concepts are presented as the manifestation of tension from the initial division of the unified light into two points. The seventh point is the essential "Yes," representing a rushing forth with purpose, characterized as masculine. The eighth point is an immediate reaction of "No," a pulling away, characterized as feminine. The ninth point forms from the tension between Yes and No and represents their reconcilement, a neutral or androgynous principle that transcends dualities like good and evil. While humans perceive these as distinct, the system suggests that the distinction between these polarities is only apparent, not absolute, as revealed by symbols like the pyramid where facets are interchangeable.
How can a magus interact with or influence their personal universe and others?
A magus interacts with their personal universe through the projection of "rays" of intent along the avenues of the senses. Merely looking at something is an act of sending forth a ray, creating a mental effort to understand and connect with it. Because the personal universe is a creation of the will acting along these rays, the magus can affect everything they perceive. This is the basis for practices like the "evil eye," where a strong will can project a "point of self" along a ray to disrupt another person's protective sphere and plant a seed of negative intent, causing self-harm. The ability to project the point of self is considered difficult and dangerous, both to the user and the target, and can be consciously used or even lead to more extreme actions like attempting to usurp another's body.
What is the "Golden Trine" and how does it relate to destiny, service, and happiness?
The Golden Trine is presented as the fundamental equation of life, consisting of three interdependent factors: Destiny, Service, and Happiness. These three factors cannot exist without each other and are depicted as the sides of an equilateral triangle. Destiny is defined as the highest and best achievement of an individual's talents and potential. Service is the fulfillment of the greater purpose of a life, harmonizing with cosmic law. Happiness is a transcendent feeling of bliss and rightness that resonates on all levels of being, distinct from mere pleasure. The system asserts that achieving any one, or any two, of these factors automatically leads to the realization of all three. Resisting one's destiny is seen as a futile battle against the higher self.
Additional Questions
Connections to the Secrets of the Tetragrammaton
Drawing on the provided source material, the system described indeed maps the four Hebrew letters of the Tetragrammaton (IHVH) and associated principles and numerical values onto various structures and concepts within magic and Kabbalah.
The source explains that the Hebrew name for God, IHVH, is called Tetragrammaton. It has both three and four letters because two of the letters are the same. This name is deeply connected to the four elements. Different permutations of the Tetragrammaton are associated with the elements. Specifically, Yod (Y) is linked with Fire, the first He (H) with Water, Vav (V) with Air, and the second He (H) with Earth.
These elemental associations carry specific principles:
* Fire, represented by the upward-pointing red triangle, stands for primal Fire, the impulse to action, the masculine force, the father. It is linked to Yod.
* Water, represented by the downward-pointing triangle, stands for primal Water, that which is acted upon, the female ground, the mother. It is linked to the first He.
* Air, represented by the yellow circle, is described as androgenous, the child principle. It is linked to Vav.
* Earth, represented by the black square, is the matter of the universe. It is linked to the second He.
The source notes that the three elements Fire, Air, and Water are separate and different from the element Earth, and this understanding is expressed in the letters of IHVH. Considered as three, God is an ideal without concrete existence, but considered as four, God becomes a practical reality.
While the source links the Tetragrammaton to these elemental principles and the concepts of father, mother, and child, and relates these to a fourfold division of the All, it does not explicitly map the IHVH letters or a 1-2-3-4 numerical sequence to the specific structures you mentioned, such as nuclear family (as Father/Mother/Child/Nuclear Family), atomic structure (Proton/Electron/Neutron/Atom), societal organization (State/Church/Mob/Society), or theological concepts like the Trinity leading to Zion (Father/Son/Holy Spirit/Trinity/Zion) [Source does not contain this information]. The source discusses the divine trinity and connects it to symbols like the triangle and heptagram, but not in the precise 1-2-3-4 IHVH mapping you described.
Regarding numerical values, the source mentions that the numerical value of IHVH is twenty-six. It relates this value to the total number of dimensions in some systems. It also discusses numerical relationships within Kabbalistic structures, such as pairs of opposite numbers around the perimeter of the Hexagram adding up to twelve, and pairs of opposite Sephiroth on the Tree adding up to eleven. The sum of eleven is explained via "Kabbalistic addition 11 = 1+1 = 2", representing polarity and division, highlighting the Tree's composite nature. This concept resembles Theosophical Reduction, though the term "Theosophical Addition" is not used in the source.
The source strongly connects the Minor Arcana of the Tarot to this Kabbalistic framework, which is itself deeply intertwined with the Tetragrammaton and the concept of emanations.
* The four suits of the Minor Arcana (Scepters, Cups, Swords, and Coins/Pentacles) stand for the four Kabbalistic worlds (Atziluth, Briah, Yetzirah, and Assiah). These suits also correspond to the four elements: Scepters (Fire), Cups (Water), Swords (Air), and Coins/Pentacles (Earth).
* The ten numbered cards in each suit (Ace through Ten) represent the ten emanations of God that brought the universe into being. Each of the forty numbered cards thus stands for one Sephirah in one of the four Kabbalistic worlds.
* The sixteen face cards (Kings, Queens, Knights, and Pages) are linked to the philosophical elements. The title of the face card provides the active element (Kings/Fire, Queens/Water, Knights/Air, Pages/Earth), and the suit provides the ground against which it acts.
The source states that the Kabbalah serves as a "mega filing system" that organizes and relates these various disparate magical subsystems, including astrology, the Tarot, the occult elements, the angelic hierarchy, numerology, and the four worlds or planes of being. The glyph of the Tree of the Sephiroth, composed of ten emanations, is central to this system. The ten emanations (Sephiroth) are described as fundamentally the ten names of God, and the numerical value of IHVH (twenty-six) is related to the ten Sephiroth.
While the source details these strong correspondences between the Tetragrammaton, elements, the four worlds, the ten Sephiroth, and the components of the Minor Arcana (suits, numbered cards, court cards), it does not describe or illustrate specific "circular diagrams" that organize the suits, court cards, and numbered cards in rings relative to central Hebrew letters (IHVH) and numerical values in the way you described [Source does not contain this specific diagram type]. The source does discuss other circular or geometrically symbolic diagrams like the Tetragram figure for tracing IHVH letter patterns associated with elements and motions, the decagram which can be related to the Sephiroth, and sigil wheels for generating letter sigils.
In summary, the source establishes a clear link between the Tetragrammaton, the four elements, and their principles, relating these to the structure of the Kabbalistic Tree of Sephiroth and the four worlds. The Minor Arcana cards are then mapped onto this structure, with suits representing the worlds/elements, numbered cards representing Sephiroth in those worlds, and court cards representing elemental qualities within the suits. This creates a comprehensive system of correspondences, although the source does not include the specific diagram types or the detailed mappings to non-occult structures (atomic, societal, etc.) or the 1-2-3-4 numerical progression as described in your query's premise.
How are planets assigned to the hexagram?
Based on the sources, the assignment of planets to the hexagram is discussed, presenting both a traditional approach (associated with the Golden Dawn) and a proposed "new system".
* Traditional Golden Dawn Arrangement:
* It is common practice in magic to assign the seven traditional planets to the hexagram according to the teachings of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.
* In this traditional arrangement, the Sun is typically placed in the center of the hexagram.
* The source explicitly questions this arrangement, arguing that in magic, the self is the center, not the Sun. It states the traditional setup is illogical, unbalanced, inelegant, and unworkable for those who recognize its weaknesses.
* Proposed Mercury-Central Arrangement:
* The source advocates for a system where Mercury is placed at the center of the hexagram.
* Mercury is chosen for the center because it is the symbol of balance, magic, and humanity, embodying both masculine and feminine elements and being closest to the self. It is seen as the best substitute for the Earth, which is not explicitly represented on the hexagram.
* The hexagram can be visualized as a square with two triangles.
* The Sun (emanator of light) is placed at the top point.
* The Moon (ruler of shadows) is placed at the bottom point, as the Sun and Moon are opposites and form a pair apart from the other planets.
* The remaining four planets (Mars, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn) are assigned to the corners of the square, which are associated with the elements.
* These four planets are considered in pairs of opposites: Mars-Venus and Jupiter-Saturn.
* Based on their nature, Mars and Jupiter (masculine) should be placed on the right side of the square (as viewed from the back), while Venus and Saturn (feminine) should be placed on the left side.
* The assignment can also be understood through the metaphor of the descending and ascending lightning bolt. Planets containing the symbol of the Sun (circle) are on the descending path (Mars, Venus), while planets containing the lunar symbol (crescent) are on the ascending path (Jupiter, Saturn).
* More specifically, Mars (masculine, fiery) is placed on the descending Sigel on the right side.
* Venus (feminine, receptive) is placed on the Sun's descending Sigel on the left (feminine) side.
* Jupiter (masculine) is placed on the Moon's ascending Sigel on the right side.
* Saturn (feminine) is placed on the ascending Sigel on the left side.
* Note: There is a discrepancy between the text description which places Mars and Jupiter on the right side and Venus and Saturn on the left side, and the diagram provided in source which shows Mars and Venus on the right side and Jupiter and Saturn on the left side.
* Numbering of Planets on the Hexagram:
* In this Mercury-central system, Mercury assumes the central number six. Six is described as the number of God and of the enlightened magus.
* The Sun takes the number three, which is in harmony with its glory as the perfect trine.
* Saturn takes the number eight, which represents the solidly material cube.
* The other planets may retain their traditional values.
* The diagram shows the numbering on the points: Sun (3) at the top, Moon (9) at the bottom, Mars (5) upper right, Jupiter (4) upper left, Venus (7) lower right, Saturn (8) lower left, and Mercury (6) in the center.
* With this numbering, the center is six, and each pair of opposite numbers around the perimeter adds up to twelve, creating a pleasing balance.
The source notes that this specific Mercury-central arrangement of the planets on the hexagram is not often used in modern magical practice, leaving it up to personal judgment whether to follow tradition or use this new system.
The hexagram is used in ritual magic to rule the planets, which are seen as god-forms. Planetary forces can be invoked by drawing a line from the planet's position clockwise and banished by drawing counterclockwise, often involving the opposite triangle. For Mercury, the source suggests drawing both the Sun and Moon triangles clockwise. The unicursal hexagram is not recommended for invoking or banishing.
What is the unicursal hexagram?
Based on the sources, the unicursal hexagram is a specific form of the six-pointed star used in magic.
Here are some key points about the unicursal hexagram from the sources:
* It is a second form of hexagram used in magic, distinct from the common hexagram formed by two overlapping triangles.
* It is called "unicursal" because it can be traced with a single unbroken line. This is similar to the pentagram in how it is drawn continuously.
* It was presented by Aleister Crowley in his Book Of Thoth. Crowley developed it in the early part of the 20th century to overcome the awkwardness of inscribing the common hexagram in the air during magical rituals.
* It is extracted from the common hexagram by drawing diagonal lines between the pairs of points on the left and right sides, which then intersect in the center.
* When analyzed, the unicursal hexagram is seen to be made up of two Sowelu (Sigel) runes overlapped and joined at the top and bottom. The Sowelu rune means "Sun" and is shaped like a lightning stroke, symbolizing creative force.
* The two sides of the unicursal hexagram, when separated, are a Sowelu rune and its mirror reflection.
* It is understandable as a symbol of descending and reascending force, like the down strike of a lightning bolt and its reflection from a mirror surface of water. It can be related to the three-dimensional hexagram (a double four-sided pyramid) by rotating the runes.
* The arrangement of planets on the unicursal hexagram is described as being the same as that on the common hexagram.
* However, unlike the common hexagram, the unicursal hexagram has neither a clockwise nor a counter-clockwise direction of motion. When traced, it creates opposing swirls that cancel each other out, making its action weak.
* For this reason, its use is not recommended for invoking or banishing. If a unicursal figure is needed for these purposes, the heptagram should be employed instead.
Give an overview of the platonic solids
The sources discuss several geometric symbols and their significance in magic and cosmology, including some three-dimensional forms.
* The Dodecahedron:
* The geometric dodecahedron is described as a solid formed of twelve interlocking pentagons.
* It can be built around the self as a magically impregnable shell.
* It is built upon the powerful complex numbers of five reflected (ten) and six reflected (twelve).
* Pythagoras is reputedly held to have considered the dodecahedron the most potent and perfect shape in the world.
* The Cube:
* The cube is presented as the best representation of the balanced octagram in three dimensions.
* It has eight points of intersection and is regular in all dimensions.
* The cubic shape is used for the ritual altar, which is the point in the center of the magic circle where force is focused and manifested.
* The cube is the ultimate symbol of matter, as the square is of form. Occultists often place a piece of stone (representing the cube) inside their altar or make the altar entirely of stone.
* Ancient Hebrews recognized stone, the cube, and cubic stones as the most suitable receptacle of spirit. The inner chamber of Solomon's Temple, which housed the Ark of the Covenant, was cubic, and his brass altar was square.
* The Christian Church also historically used altars that assumed a box shape with a stone slab. Altars in ancient Babylon were square, and in ancient Egypt, they were cubic or truncated cones.
* When the parallel sides of the cube are united, the three reciprocating rays that define the point of self in relation to the universe emerge.
* Other Related Solids (Pyramids, Cones):
* The sources relate the triangle to the cone as its two-dimensional representation. The pyramid is described as a kind of cone.
* Pyramids are seen as a stairway to heaven where human consciousness ascends and divine consciousness descends.
* The figure made up of a square and two triangles (representing Earth, Fire, and Water) is the two-dimensional version of the four-sided Egyptian pyramid reflected from its base, called the three-dimensional hexagram.
* A "double four-sided pyramid" (a pyramid with its reflection congruent to its base, forming a diamond shape) is presented as a three-dimensional verification of the six-spoked spirit wheel. The top point represents Spirit, the base triangle represents Fire, Water, and Air, and the lower point represents Earth.
* An unbalanced octagram is represented by a truncated four-sided pyramid, which signifies elevating one of the squares (representing matter) to heaven and represents the flow of power upwards and downwards.
How are zodiac signs assigned elements and motions?
Based on the sources, the assignment of zodiac signs to elements and motions is a fundamental concept in this system of magic.
Here is an overview:
* Assignment to Elements and Motions:
* Each sign of the zodiac is assigned one of the four philosophical elements and one of the three kinds of primary motion.
* This combination of its element and motion gives each sign its individual action.
* This division is commonly shown graphically using the double dodecagram of four triangles and three squares, or a zodiac cross.
* The Four Elements:
* The four elements are a philosophical division of form based on its kinds of motion. They are not physical elements but the basis for them.
* Fire is the male element. Its motion is linear, and it originates action. Its color is red. It is associated with the Lion (Leo), Eagle (Scorpio), Angel (Aquarius), and Bull (Earth) as ancient emblems, though their assignment around the compass is debated.
* Water is the female element. Its motion is circular, receiving and transforming the impulse of Fire. Its color is blue.
* Air is the element of the child, containing both male and female potential, resulting from the union of Fire and Water. Its motion is vibratory. Its color is yellow.
* Earth is the crystallization of the other three elements in matter. It has no pure essence but a compound nature. Its motion is mixed. Its color is black. Earth is also associated with four "earthy colors": russet, olive, citrine, and black.
* The zodiac signs are assigned to these elements as follows:
* Fire: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
* Water: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
* Air: Libra, Aquarius, Gemini
* Earth: Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo
* The Three Motions:
* These are the three kinds of essential motion: Rajasic, Tamasic, and Sattvic, which are expressed in astrology as the Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable signs of the zodiac.
* Cardinal (Rajasic) is the male principle. Its motion is linear. Its color is red.
* Fixed (Tamasic) is the female principle. Its motion is rotary. Its color is blue.
* Mutable (Sattvic) is the neutral principle. Its motion is vibratory. Its color is yellow.
* The zodiac signs are assigned to these motions as follows:
* Cardinal (linear motion): Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn
* Fixed (rotary motion): Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius
* Mutable (vibratory motion): Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces
In summary, the zodiac signs are categorized first by element (Fire, Water, Air, Earth) and then by motion (Cardinal, Fixed, Mutable), forming a key part of their archetypal nature and interaction within this magical system. These assignments are considered fundamental to understanding the meaning of each sign.
What colors represent elements in magic?
Based on the sources, the elements in this system of magic are assigned specific colors:
* The four philosophical elements are Fire, Water, Air, and Earth.
* There is also Elemental Spirit, which is considered separate and higher than the other four.
Here are the color assignments for each:
* Spirit: Assigned the color White. White represents the source of all emanations and the highest purity. It is the light considered as an individual quality. Just as white holds all other colors, spirit embodies all form and substance.
* Fire: Assigned the color Red. Red is described as the color of primal Fire, the male element, and is associated with linear motion. It is the masculine color, associated with the Supernal Father, will, action, command, and outward streaming. It is fiery and explosive. It is also the color of the magical Sword of Will.
* Water: Assigned the color Blue. Blue is the color of primal Water, the female element, and is associated with fixed or rotary motion. It is feminine, associated with the Supernal Mother, reflection, inner feeling, secrecy, nurturance, and formation. It is passive and accepting. It is also the color of the magical Armor of Tranquillity.
* Air: Assigned the color Yellow. Yellow is the color of the child principle, the element containing both male and female potential, and is associated with mutable or vibratory motion. It is the color of the magical Shield of Faith. In the proposed color wheel system, Yellow is a primary color.
* Earth: Assigned the color Black. Earth is the crystallization of the other three elements in matter. Matter viewed apart from spirit is considered hollow and lifeless; therefore, Earth is assigned black, the color of shadows. However, Earth is also said to have four "earthy colors": russet, olive, citrine, and black. These derive from the path of Malkuth on the Tree of the Sephiroth.
These color assignments for Fire, Water, and Air are based on the pigment primary colors (red, blue, and yellow), with White for Spirit and Black for Earth added. This system of colors for the four lower elements taught by the Golden Dawn is fairly widely accepted in modern magic.
It's important to note that the assignment of colors in practical magic is one of the most disputed matters. Different traditions and schools may have different systems. The system presented in the sources, based on a circular spectrum, attempts to deal with the question rationally, although the assignments become more doubtful for tertiary colors. It is emphasized that the magus should feel confident in the colors used and feel free to disregard any system that seems awkward or unsound.
What are the three magical weapons?
Based on the sources and our conversation, the three magical weapons are a set of psychic or mental tools used by the magus for defense and offense. They are considered fundamental types from which other magical weapons are derived.
These three weapons are:
* Sword of Will
* Conception: Conceived by the magus as a flaming beam of ruby light extending from the index finger of the right hand.
* Purpose and Effect: It is an offensive weapon. It has the power to blast at all levels and to wither life. It can cut like a laser through deceit and confusion. When powerfully extended, it can kill a beating heart or brain. It is not bound by time or space.
* Operation: It extends and retracts instantly at will when the right hand is raised or relaxed.
* Associations: Its color is red, its element Fire, and its motion linear.
* Shield of Faith
* Conception: Conceived by the magus as a disk of light extending from the left palm when it is held outward (the traditional sign of warding off evil). It is formed of a clockwise whirling cross.
* Purpose and Effect: It is a defensive weapon. It forms a psychic barrier. No evil intention can break its plane. When powerfully projected, it can stop a charging beast.
* Operation: Its size can be increased or decreased at will and it can be sent forward to any distance. Like the sword, it must be consciously extended but can be formed or retracted instantly.
* Associations: Its color is yellow, its element Air, and its motion vibratory.
* Armor of Tranquillity
* Conception: It acts as a magical prism.
* Purpose and Effect: It is a defensive weapon. It refracts the force of evil intention around the magus. In effect, it renders the magus transparent so evil can pass through harmlessly.
* Operation: The length of time it can be maintained depends on the strength of the magus, as it will eventually sap vitality. It should never be formed without strong reason.
* Associations: Its color is blue, its element Water, and its motion circular.
Source of Power: Energizing these three weapons is the Earth center. This is traditionally conceived as an occult sphere located about two inches below the navel on the spinal column (an imaginary sphere acting as a focus). This Earth center is equivalent to the chakra located at the lower bowel, linked with Yesod and the planet Saturn. The elemental Earth principle is used to empower the three higher elements. The magus must ensure this Earth center is never cut off when using the weapons, as this would deprive them of power. Once awakened, it becomes an automatic welling out of power.
Evocation: The weapons should be keyed to certain words of power and specific gestures. Possible keys include divine names of the seventh, eighth, and ninth Sephiroth (Netzach, Hod, and Yesod, respectively). Gestures could include the extended right index finger (Sword), the palm of the left hand (Shield), and the two hands clasped over the heart (Armor). Any words or gestures will serve provided they are in harmony with the nature of the weapons and are absolutely clear to the magus.
Effectiveness: Their effectiveness against physical attack depends on the magus. When formed correctly, they may become visible at times of great danger to the untrained eye (seen with the mental eye and projected onto the senses). They will be physically felt by those at whom they are directed – the sword as a piercing blow, the shield as a barrier, and the armor as a slipping away of hostile purpose.
It is important to distinguish these three psychic weapons from the four elemental ritual instruments (rod, cup, sword/dagger, and shield/pentacle), which are also discussed in the sources as foundational objects of the outer temple. The three magical weapons described in source appear to be a higher, more abstract set of defenses/offenses.
List three magical alphabets mentioned.
Based on the sources, several esoteric alphabets are used in ritual magic for various reasons, including secrecy, perceived occult power in the letters, and utility in creating magical objects like seals and talismans.
Here are three magical alphabets mentioned in the sources:
* Hebrew alphabet The Hebrew alphabet is a main occult alphabet employed in modern magic. It is treated with reverence by Kabbalists who believe hidden meaning and potency lie within the shape of the individual letters. Each letter is also a number, and combinations of letters can be made into pronounceable words, offering flexibility in relating one set of letters to another Kabbalistic methods. Hebrew was used in the Golden Dawn to inscribe names of angels on elemental weapons and was employed in constructing spirit sigils. It can be translated through the Kabbalistic technique known as Aiq Beker into nine angular symbols. While it is traditional to use Hebrew in sigil making, the source suggests the native tongue of the magus is often more powerful.
* Greek alphabet The Greek alphabet found its way into modern magic through the influence of Graeco-Egyptian magical texts, Gnostic grimoires, and Hermetic wisdom texts. These texts contain invocations that heavily rely on Greek vowels. Aleister Crowley favored Gnostic Greek vowel invocations, and the Golden Dawn also occasionally employed Greek letters in rituals. It is listed as one of the main occult alphabets employed in modern magic.
* Enochian alphabet The Enochian alphabet is another main occult alphabet employed in modern magic, particularly within systems descended from the Golden Dawn. This set of twenty-one characters was reportedly received by Edward Kelley from Enochian angels. It bears no obvious relationship to any known alphabet and can be used to represent every English letter. It is considered best suited to represent the names of the actual Enochian angels and spirits revealed to John Dee and Edward Kelley.
