The Symbolism and magick of stars

"The Star Tarot card holds that same twinkly hope and promise we see when we look up at the stars in the night sky. Everything about the card suggests serenity, assurance, and hope."

Avia Venefica, from http://www.tarotteachings.com

     The little shiny dots appearing on firmament in the night, to dispel the pitch black darkness of cold universe, and provide hope, by shining their beautiful light upon Earth, have always been important focus points for humans. Stars were prominent symbols in human culture as long as we can remember writing down that very culture in some way. Pictographs be it. 

"The Great pentacle of Solomon" from the
"Sixth and Seventh Book of Moses",
though in actuality a pentagram, reputed to;
protect from black magick, gives one
freedom from fear, clear mind sunny disposition,
and good judgment in all things, according
to Anna Riva's "Secrets of magickal seals"

     

     They are archetype symbols present in many religious and secular traditions around the globe, both past and present.

     

     In Guatemala and Peru, folklore describes stars as souls of the righteous, dearly departed human beings, while Inks extend the concept to even animals, and believe that every human and animal have a sort of doppelganger  in  the sky, and these are seen at night as stars.  For Siberian Yakutsk shamans, the stars were windows to the space, their opening and closing, enable or prevented entrance to the higher realms.  In the earlier societies, observing the stars was an integral part of the society, and originally, astronomy and astrology  were one, and could not be imagined separated. [1]

     

     Certain stars, even more than others, distinguishing themselves by their size, shape or recurrent and regular appearance, played an extremely important role for the ancients. Such as Morning/Evening star, and Pole star or North star, as the latter is also known.  Another prominent stellar symbol that deserves mention here is the falling star, which unlike the previous two could be any object in the sky, rather than a specific one.

The Morning star

     

     The Ancient Greeks had two names for planet Venus, “Phosphoros” when it was the rising star, which meant “light bearer” , and “Hespheros” when Venus was the “Evening star”. A third most bright object on the sky, after Moon, and Sun, hence, it’s easy to understand why it gained significance that it did. It was sometimes also referred to as  “Kupros”, because this was another name for pagan, Roman goddess Venus,  or the Greek Aphrodite, due to its association with the island Cyprus in Mediterranean sea. Also, the island being one of the first places where copper mines appeared, also links Venus with the metal copper [2]

     

     Hence the very planet, seen in Roman pagan’s mind as a sort of deity embodiment, came to be associated with metal copper, and term Morning/Evening star.

     

     However, the same attributes were used to describe this planet, considered star, in Babylonian and Assyrian traditions, where the star was associated with their pagan goddess Ishtar. While the star would disappear from the nightly sky for a while, only to re-appear before the sunrise, Babylonians believed that’s Ishtar descending on Earth to find a lover, and then returning to sky.

     

     Among the Native Americans the Morning star generally shares good symbolism, illustrating life principle or life, announcing the sunrise.  But to the Mexicans, the Morning star was associated with illness and sometimes misfortune, hence the folk would close the doors and windows in the morning, to prevent its harmful influence to enter their homes. In Mexican folk art, Venus aka the Morning star, is often depicted with bow and arrow, covered with a skull-shaped mask. [3]

     

    In some Christian traditions, this term “morning star”, from the Vulgate Latin: “Lucifer”, is used as another name for the De*il, or Satan. Lucifer is  the archaic ( vulgate ) Latin translation of  the Hebrew Hayel ( transliteration ), and has, under the influence of King James, been translated as “morning star” ( noun ) or “Light-bearing” ( adjective, sometimes also Light-bearer, thus a noun ). This however does not clearly identify the very planet with the concept, as the term “morning star” could be also referring to the Moon, other Biblical figures , or even other things, not planets.

     

    Supporters of such translation, which adhere to King James’ suggestion, consider the “morning star/son of the dawn” from the Old Testament, Isaiah 14:12-17 to be referring to the De*il and speak, about it’s fall from Grace:

“How you have fallen from heaven,
    morning star, son of the dawn!
You have been cast down to the earth,
    you who once laid low the nations!
¹³ You said in your heart,
    “I will ascend to the heavens;
I will raise my throne
    above the stars of God;
I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly,
    on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon.^[a]
14 I will ascend above the tops of the clouds;
    I will make myself like the Most High.”
¹⁵ But you are brought down to the realm of the dead,
    to the depths of the pit.

¹⁶ Those who see you stare at you,
    they ponder your fate:
“Is this the man who shook the earth
    and made kingdoms tremble,
¹⁷ the man who made the world a wilderness,
    who overthrew its cities
    and would not let his captives go home?” [4]

Pole or North Star

     While still being a specific star/planet, pole or north star ( If it refers to the Southern pole star, than it can also be called Southern star , or South star ) does change over the course of time, but has a clear and specific set of characteristics that make it what  such.

     “A pole star is a visible star, preferably a prominent one, that is approximately aligned with the Earth's axis of rotation; that is, a star whose apparent position is close to one of the celestial poles, and which lies approximately directly overhead when viewed from the Earth's North Pole or South Pole. A similar concept also applies to other planets than the Earth. In practice, the term pole star usually refers to Polaris, which is the current northern pole star, also known as the North Star.” [5]

     Other than being, a guiding and orienteering   referent point, the pole star berries important symbolism and folkloric meaning particular among Northern Asians and Europeans.

     Mongols see it as a “golden pillar” and for the Sami people, of Northern Norway, Pole star is world’s pillar. To people in Northern Asia, the North Star marks the top of the World’s mountain, on which the supreme creator God resigns, and hence why, in the Northern Asian regions altars are placed on North. In China, the Pole star, seen as, top of the sky, as it were, is illustrative of social hierarchy, representing the emperor as the central figure in human societies. The star also “appears” in some Vedic martial ceremonies, sometimes symbolizing the groom. [6]

The Falling star

     Any given shooting star, or falling star, hence, a meteor that appears falling down on Earth, or actually falling on Earth, can be called that.

     No matter culture, or tradition, globe-wise they are seen as ominous.  Most of the time, these are seen as sparks of Heavenly fire, and are messengers of G’d, somewhat similar to the Angels. Though sometimes they are harbingers of great catastrophes, calamities or misfortune.

     And in Christianity, the term Fallen Star or Falling star, is what more properly, and specifically refers to Adversary ( the De*il ) as opposed to the Morning star. Sometimes this falls is perceived as shooting star fall, because the De*il was cast down much like star, or lighting also:

“And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven.”” [7]

     

     There is a widespread superstition, around the world, to wish upon a falling star , to have You wish come true.

     Falling stars should not be confused though, with stars that appear to fly slowly across the sky and guide people, as was the case with star who showed the way  for the Three Magi, leading them to the infant Jesus, to whom they have brought gifts in gold, frankincense and myrrh. This star was however, in reality, the Archangel Gabriel.

Star shapes, symbols and their magickal properties

     Star shapes, ideograms and symbols, by their innate form possess, carry and channel magical energy, of difference vibrations, depending on the numbers of “rays” and other.  They are religious symbols and ambles ( like Pentagram and Hexagram ), and often form crucial part of the magickal seals, amulets and pentacles. Some often used in magick variations include;   those with five, six, seven, eight and nine points.

     A pentagram, a well-known five pointed star, drawn unicursaly ( without lifting the pen ), is a religious symbol of Neo-Pagans, and Wiccans respectively. But it’s really a magical symbol that predates both. It’s symbolizes unity of four classical elements; Earth, Air, Fire and Water with the Spirt or Ether.

In order of appearance, from left to right: Five pointed star, without the lines crossing,
it was at some point used as symbol of Ishtar, next; a classic, regular or positive Pentagram,
Last Salus-Hygiea pentacle talisman

In western occultism, a pentagram is often identified with pentacle, which is a pentagram carved into gold or silver disc, or rarely copper one. In essence, any seal consisting of a circle with geometrical figure inscribed in it, touching the circumference, is a pentacle. Solomon’s pentacles attest to this.So these metal discs, pentacles, with the pentagram inscribed ( mostly from the “noble” metals, silver and gold ) are considered  magickal seals with extraordinary qualities, such as augmenting magickal, and spiritual powers, protection from and exorcism of evil, even enticing earthquakes,  inducing love, or casting spells.   Some also contained Divine Names, or magickal words and formulas inscribed on them.

For example, the Pentagram with inscribed words: “Salus; Hygiea” was commonly worn inscribed on rings during Middleage, as a talisman to draw good health and longevity, often covered with a Garnet faceted stone. Such pentacle was also believed to encompasses the five Platonic solids, with its five points.

Also, another famous example is “The Pentagram of Solomon” from “Clavicula Solomonis” which has to be engraved on Gold or Silver plate, and worn on chest to protect from spirits during invocations in Ceremonial magick, according to Greater Key of King Solomon:

“THIS is the Form of Pentagram of Solomon, the figure whereof is to be made in Sol or Luna (Gold or Silver), and worn upon thy breast; having the Seal of the Spirit required upon the other side thereof. It is to preserve thee from danger, and also to command the Spirits by.” [8]

Pentagram is also associated with Archangel Samael, and is along with the sword, one of his symbols, which is befitting for an Angel of Mars, as five is the correspondent to Mars.

This is probably needless to say, as the popular media have made the following notion widespread; upright, or upwards pentagram, where the singular point is up, is the symbol of protection and positive magick, and embodies a concept of “spirit over matter”. Inverted, with the two points facing upwards, and one, singular, pointing down,  is oftentimes used in theistic Satanism, and luciferianism, as a symbol of  ( black magick ) sabbatic goat, or plainly the De*il, with the two points up symbolizing the horns. One of such forms is the so called; “Seal/Sigil of Baphomet” popularized by Antoan La Vey, but originating from a 19^th century French occultist’s writings. Whatmore the very symbol is copyrighted and acts as religious ambled/ symbol. Ironically, the very symbol makes little or no sense at all, having the names Samael and Lilith inscribed, of which one is, as we know, an Angel ( not a fallen one ) in Christianity and Judaism, and other is a demon, but neither of two being the De**l. Also according to the canonical literature, the two (Samael and Lilith) are unrelated, and can rather be seen as opposed forces than consorts. Here is what Eliphas Levi says about inverted pentagram in his famous work “Transcendental magick, its doctrines and ritual”:

"A reversed pentagram, with two points projecting upwards, is a symbol of evil and attracts sinister forces because it overturns the proper order of things and demonstrates the triumph of matter over spirit. It is the goat of lust attacking the heavens with its horns, a sign execrated by initiates."

For Levi, Pentagram was symbolic of microcosmos, that is human, as he saw it, so it’s not unlike Agrippa’s conceptualism of Pentagram ( see picture ). In Christianity, pentagram is seen as either symbol of Five wounds of Christ, or Five joys of Mary  in Catholic Christianity, and can be seen as pattern in Christian art and architecture.

    The Hexagram, of the six pointed star, is another familiar symbol, which can be seen on the flag of Israel. Hexagram with a black dot inside the center is an old, archaic-German symbol for the verb: ‘”to boil”.

A true Hexagram with equidistant points, cannot be drawn unicrusaly, in fact, it’s made of two interlacing triangles.  And this fact lends to symbolism of Hexagram, also known as Magen David and Star of David in occultism

·         Being that it combines an upward and downward facing triangle, Hexagram represents unity of opposing principles, male and female, sometimes also, physical and spiritual.

·         In Alchemy Hexagram combines all four classical elements, even symbolically, being that the symbols for elements are four triangles, for air and fire facing upwards, water and earth opposite.

In order of appearance, from  left to right: Hexagram, Hexagon and
Hexagram with Tetragrammaton in the center

      The Hexagram in the circle, touching the circumference at six cardinal points is a traditional symbol of Alchemy. It has also later been used as symbol of Rudolph Steiner’s Anthroposophy movement

·         This intertwining of triangles, and worlds they represent (physical and   spiritual) also illustrates the Hermetic principle:  “As above, so bellow!” [9]

Hexagram is also present in Christian though and art, due to prominent triangle symbolism in Christianity, an example being Robert Flaud’s hexagram from XVII century, although that particular pentacle is not equidistant. Similar Hexagram is created in the XIX century by the famous scholar, and mystic Eliphas Levi.

Eliphas Levi's "pentacle of Solomon"

Another common example is the Hexagram with the unutterable, infallible name of G’d written/inscribed in center, which is believed  to ( in the hands of the believing ) confers the wearer power to defy evil spirits, and cause both good and evil spirits to appear during invocations, and  make them obedient. In fact, some magick practitioners use the Hexagram (and sometimes Hexagon) shape to create magickal portals.

Also, Hexagram can be inscribed in, or even expanded to Hexagon, a six sided, equidistantly sided geometrical polygon, associated magically with number six and; communication, interfacing, balance, union. [10] Hexagon is a common pattern in nature found in bee combs, and is considered in architecture to be one of the most perfect shapes to work with to form different, complex shapes, without decrease of stability of the resulting structure.

Hexagram and Hexagon also make for the basic patterns used in creation of complex sacred geometry shapes such as Fruit of life.

     

Heptagram and Octagram, various forms

     Seven pointed star or Septagram, or Heptagram, embodies the same spiritual qualities that the number 7 does. It’s a symbols of spirit, power, mystery, luck, and sometimes is associated with Seven Archangels. It can also be a planetary symbol, for either drawing or banishing a specific planetary influence of seven different planets, depending on how drawn, that is from which point the operator starts. A notable examples are “The great pentacle” appearing in the Key of Solomon, and in the Legemton ( Goetia ), of which the Key of Solomon speaks:

“It should be written on sheepskin paper or virgin parchment, the which paper should be tinted green. The circle with the 72 divine letters should be red or the letters may be gold. The letters within the pentacle should be the same red, or sky blue everywhere, with the great name of God in gold. It serves to convene all spirits; when shown to them they will bow and obey you”  [11]

Another prominent example is “Sigilum Dei Aemeth” (lit. The Seal of G-d’s truth) or the Seal of

John Dee's "Sigilum Dei Aemeth" in gold,
on display in British museum, not the
Hepagram, heptagon and pentagram
in the center 

British museum, note septagram, septagon and pentagram in the center 

Truth of Dr Dee, which was primarily constructed from a large Heptagram and Heptagon, inscribed with Divine names and symbols.  Dr. John Dee would make five of these, inscribed in waxen discs,  four placed under the legs of his ritual table, and one bellow a shrew stone, placed on them middle of the table. This was done during   his Enochian workings, to enable him (along with other things) communication with Angelic beings.  [12] It’s similar to “The Great pentacle of Solomon”.

Seven pointed star, especially with sharp pointed, narrow rays, is also called an “Elven star” and is used both as an amulet or charm, and in workings of Fairy magick, where it is believed to attract and favors Fae. It’s sometimes inscribed on purple candles which are then burnt for spiritual growth and developing gifts.

     Octagram, or eight pointed stars was used to represent pagan goddess Ishtar. There were two basic versions Babylonian one, which was encircled and the Phoenician one, which was not.  In the form of Octagram of creation, image of which I have posted in one of my previous articles dealing with Samhain, is a symbol of materialization, creation, collecting/accumulating magickal power, and invocation of protection among the Gnostics and Nordic people.

     Enneagram, also Nonagram, or the nine pointed star, in Christianity, is a symbol of nine gifts or fruits of the Holy Spirit. [13]

NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, If You wish to use any parts of it, elsewhere online,  feel free, but add credits,   Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com  or a direct link to this post

CREDITS AND REFERENCES:

[1] As stated in:  “Illustrated Encyclopedia of signs and symbols” by Marc O’ Connell and Raje Airey

[2] According to; and more on; http://www.classicalastronomy.com/news/anmviewer.asp?a=62&z=13

[3] According to the same source as listed under [1]

[4] Retrieved from: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+14:12-17 , for educational and explanatory purposes

[5] Wikipedia’s definition, retrieved from Wikipedia’s entry on Pole star; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pole_star , posted here for explanatory and educational purposes, without any ill will

[6] According to the source listed under [1], adapted

[7] Retrieved form:     for explanatory and educational   purposes: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+10%3A18&version=ESV

[8] As stated in the “Greater Key of King Solomon” ( or “Clavicula Solomonis” ), retrieved from :   http://www.sacred-texts.com/grim/lks/lks11.htm

[9] Hexagram symbolizing “As above so bellow” principle, as stated here:  http://altreligion.about.com/od/westernocculttradition/a/The-Hexagram.htm

[10] According to: http://www.symbolic-meanings.com/2007/10/15/meaning-of-hexagon/

[11] Retrieved from: http://www.esotericarchives.com/solomon/ksol.htm , for explanatory  and educational purposes without any ill will

[12] Find more about it here: http://altreligion.about.com/od/westernocculttradition/a/sigillum_dei_aemeth.htm

[13] According to: http://altreligion.about.com/od/westernocculttradition/a/sigillum_dei_aemeth.htm 

IMAGE CREDITS: First image is a pentacle from “Sixth and Seventh book of Moses”, edited digitally by myself here, used for illustrative purposes. Second image is created by myself.   Third image is created by   myself. Fourth image is from http://eden-saga.com/img/images/sceau-de-salomon-200po.gif  used here for illustrative, and explanatory purposes, with no ill will. Fifth image is by myself. Sixth image is in public domain, retrieved from here  http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:John_Dee%27s_Seal_of_God_British_Museum_26_07_2013.jpg

The mystic power of Tripple spiral or Triskele

 

 

The ever dazzling and enticing symbol of spiral, always present in nature,  had also anchored itself deeply into human mind, conscious and unconscious,   to which  art, myths, and traditions attest.  

The oldest findings of spirals drawn ( or rather, carved   ) by humans date back to Paleolithic age [1] , though more than likely most prolific periods of use and creation of spiral symbols include late propto-European and European times, namely Celtic culture.

Spirals convey patterns that occur in natural mechanism and are natural way of organization of systems, such spiral broadening the universe , or galaxies.  They are everywhere  around You, tree trunk rings, snail houses, entwining plants,  seashells, whirlpools , whirlwinds  and nasty tornados, water ripples on the surface of the peaceful like You enticed by throwing a stone in water.

Starting from a single point, and expanding, to the outer layers, nearly concentric, spirals represent creation, grow, path, motion, movement, introspection, or expansion from outwards  to outdoors, and intuitively the  tell and perpetuate old  truths and ideas about cyclical, expansive  and dynamic nature of things.  Spirals  depict ideas of journeying , initiation, the unity and connection of one and all, and spiritual yearning and connection to the Divine.

Spirals are very prominent symbol in Oceania,   where Maori people perceive them as symbol of Creation, and Polynesians see them as key to immortality [2] 

Hopi Indians see them as symbol of migration, and return to home, particularly the Triskele  ( triple spiral  ) variations, while the Aztecs see double , opposing, connected spirals, as symbols of Moon phases and thunder and/or lighting.

Even in popular art, spirals are a common motif, in comics they often represent infatuation or trance, usually drawn instead of eyes in such cases ,  or confused mental state , if  from  of descending, 3D style spiral above the characters heads.

Spiral dances are part of several traditions around the world. For example Pueblo Indians ( as in Native American Indians of course ) , New  Year Spiral dancing. Or  the ritual dance of Whirling Dervish(i)  of Mevelvi order, as a form of Dhkir ( rembrance of G’d ) and mimicking  various processes in Universe. [3] Or even Wiccan dance to raise cone of power , or the Pagan Beltaine spiral   dance around  the pole.

"Jackob's ladder" by William Blake,
1800. year, British Museum

Some Christians  believe that stairs  leading to Heaven are spiral, much like depicted on  William Blake’s “Jackob’s ladder”  painting.  Purgatory is also commonly believed to be spiral mountain, on which one ascends  via spirally rising road.

Spirals in magick and occult

The more “practical” use of spiral and it’s symbolism, energy and pattern,  is found in systems of magick, witchcraft or magicko-religious systems. Some of the uses of spirals in occultism I’ve encountered through my studies and work are:

·         Entice movement of energy, set things in motion

      ·         Increase occult powers and abilities,  strengthen skills, increase personal power
      ·         Trap and confuse spirits, or lead them to trap in various spirit dislodging rituals for example [4]
      ·         Elevate mind state, alter mind state, like In various meditations, or while simply drawing spirals

For these purposes they can be traced on altars with powders ( check the example I’ve given bellow ), printed symbols can be placed bellow vessels with water, or oil to empower, energize and bless them, they can be carved into candles to point out intention, and further empower candles, worn as amulets and talismans and so on.

In Santerian and Palo rituals they can be traced on the ground with gunpowder , in which case the client stands in centre, and lights the start of the spiral. Or they can be traced  to “conduct” spirit away from client , to a trap vessel, such as in Evilspirit removing ( dislodging ) spell , in Hoodoo tradition , like ones Dr E performs for clients.

There is a lot of place for Your own creative expression with spirals in magickal workings, for magick is after all, as much science,  that much art, according to some schools of thought.

Triple spiral or Triskele

One of the oldest found Triple spiral symbols comes from Newgrange  Passage tomb  in Ireland, dating  back   t o 3200^th year BC. Sun auspiciously illuminates passage in it, on Winter’s Solstice.  And  on the entrance stone there is a triple spiral, one of the oldest such recorded symbols [5]

Newgrange Tripple spiral(s)  engraved upon entrance stone

 

While we do not know what the symbol originally represented in Celtic culture, In  neopaganism an pagan revival of Celtic culture and Wicca, they are associated with triple deities, such as Three-faceted Celtic goddess  Maiden-Mother-Crone, which to me, for one, makes excellent sense. Around 5^th age, when Christianity was spread among Celtic countries, the symbols gained yet another meaning, it stood for Holy Trinity in  Christianity, and it still does. It illustrates the nature of Christian concept of Trinity fairly well, much like the  three leaved clover does, three in one, G’d the Father, G’d Son, and G’d Holy  Spirit.

The very word triskele, or the Greek Triskelion, means three legged, and this illustrates the three

Common version of Triskele symbol/pattern

“branches” or “arms” or spiral.  In different cultures, or even different systems they represent three concepts  associated with a single idea. Like the deities examples given above ( in text  ) or, past, present and future in chronology ,  spirit, mind and body in anthroposophy and so on. 

The fact that these three spirals are connected, and under specific angles, makes the Triple spiral symbol even more fascinating. For it strikes the observer with an overwhelming sensation of movement, motion, and a constant one, kind of  like Earth’s revolution,  or hands of the clock.

According to a symbolist [6] as stated on her beautiful website ( What’s Your sign ) , If we combine these general ideas, with the fact that Lunar creatures in Alchemy and European Art where depicted three legged, the triple spiral becomes clearly associated with Intuition, spiritual expansion, Feminine,  mysteries , Subconscious, Hidden desires, Illumination. 

Right on spot, If You ask me, as there are three basic  phases of Moon ( New, half and Full, )  and If we consider that  the numbers  associated with Moon  are 9, 81, 369, 3321,  first one being  number 3 on cube, and the rest  are dividable with three.

So in a nutshell, a Triple spiral, or  Triskele, or  Triskelion represents,  motion, movement, action, progression, spiritual and other kind of expansion and growth, competition, mystery,  association with the Divine and alike.

Triple spiral Action ,  or Enlivening  ritual

When I was composing the following ritual  ( for this post ) , I wanted it to  be a kind of Road opener  ritual/spell. To get things  moving from stagnant place, and set them to motion, and also enable continuous success in some affair  or endeavor coming Your  way

On a  piece of paper, write down Your name, problem You have, and how You wish it to unfold.

Now keep folding the paper until it has became small enough to fit nicely bellow a candle You will be using in the ritual. You’ll need an orange, or purple candle, not too small, not too big.

Using some Road Opener, or Shifting sands, or Success powder,  trace the triple spiral. Place the paper in the centre, and over it   set  the candle.  Now dress the candle with Van Van or Road opener oil, and Read Psalms 8^th ( to get dominion over situation, and for success )  23^rd , 91^st . If the condition is long standing,  persistent and causes You danger, be sure to read Psalm 70^th as well. Add any heartfelt prayer or petition, asking for success, and what You need.  Wait for a while then snuff the candle.    

Read the psalms and prayers for the consecutive two days as well,  and on the third day, after You’ve finished with the praying and the candle  burned all the way ,  collect the remaining wax, powder, and paper, and bury them under some tree in forest, or under a plant in Your pot, to even further supercharge the spell.

Hope You had and interesting read, and hence well spent time, and hopefully You also find this helpful and  inspirational, in some way

Abundance of Blessings, Shadow :)

 

NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself, hence If You wish to use any parts of it elsewhere online, feel free but add   the credits  Shadow of Shadows magick place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post
CREDITS AND REFRENCES:

[1] According to Marc O’ Connell and Raje Airey in their work “Ill ustrated Encyclopedia of  signs and symbols”
[2] According to the same source  as under   [1]
[3]  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mevlevi_Order
[4] Example of such use can be found here : http://conjuredoctor.blogspot.com/2012/07/hoodoo-spell-to-remove-evil-spirits.html
[5] According to the : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triple_spiral
[6] Avia Venefica , as she cunningly  noted  here: http://www.whats-your-sign.com/triskelion-celtic-symbol-meaning.html

IMAGE CREDITS: Images ( in order of appearance )

: http://www.newgrange.com/kerbstone-k1.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Blake_jacobsladder.jpg

http://www.hdwallpapersbest.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/red-green-spiral-wallpaper.jpg  

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5f/Triskele-Symbol-spiral.png ,  First image edited by myself for use here, all used for illustrative and explanatory  purposes, without any ill wil l  

Magick of basic geometric shapes

In this article I’ll be discussing some basic symbolism behind circle, square and triangle , as well as their  practical  use in spiritual work and magick.  Are those not basic geometry stuff ? Yes and no, for they are both older, and carry more value, than   their “geometric doppelganger” images. These are the patterns present in nature probably since creation, shapes  that came to be cornerstones of, other , more complex shapes.  Circles, Squares and Triangles form cubes, pyramids , spheres, and so much more.  They unite the vertexes, while constraining and limiting the space within, which in magickal sense then becomes  transcending area. One that surpasses physical limitations, and interacts with  more planes of existence at once.  They make one of the first ideograms , as well as pictograms in some cases ( for example  circle representing  the sun ).

Circle

It would be presumptuous and  plainly, silly of me, or anyone else   for that matter, to  say that they  can explain the nature of the circle completely, and all the meaning it encompasses. For they are, much like the Circle itself, limitless in a way.

Circle is a well known shape, and  possibly one of the oldest ideograms, which had been, along with  spirals, engraved and carve into stones, bones and cave walls during Paleolithic era [1]  Circle  is without beginning and end, and thus represents wholeness, absolute, perfection,  sky, cosmos, eternity.  It’s all-inclusive and it illustrates the infinite nature of things  on various planes. 

Each circle may be seen as sacred, but certain places, all over the globe are considered to be   powerful thresholds of magickal energy, and are more often than not circular. Such as Stonehenge, and various stone circles across the England, Ireland and Scotland, Germany, Italy  and other  places. Some of them are ancestral heritage and places were the ancient powers reemerge.

Circle  symbolizes the path which Sun takes across the  sky   during the year- time, and also symbolizes the Sun itself , or the Full Moon. The circle is ideogram of Sun in astrology, and gold , sun and sometimes soul in Alchemy. Medicine wheel of Native American Indians is essentially a circle, and according to some beliefs of Native American people ,  spiritual forces  that come into this world ( physical plane ) act and spread in circles.

 In fact according to some sources , among Native American’s circle is believed to  be an embodiment of spiritual energy [2]  It’s also symbolic of repetitive time cycles, hence being base for the clock/s . In China it is representative of the Heavens. In Christianity Circle is a symbol of wholeness, Sanctity ( Halo ) and eternal life. Sometimes also symbolizes chastity and innocence, in Christian art.  Concentric circles in Christianity represent hierarchies of kind ( such as angelic hierarchies ), or like in Dante’s Inferno,  hierarchy in organization ( the 9 circles of He*l ) .

It also stresses the symbols and images that are drawn within, and beacons the focus of both the observer  or  desired force, for example in magick. Talismans, often limited with a circle are a fine example  of utilization of it’s beaconing and focusing power, so is the opening of the circle, of the Ceremonial (  High, also Higher ) magick. 

Also Circles are symbols or unity and equality. Images of people sitting around some kind of fire, or flame in circle or  Arthurian Round table come in mind, as illustrative examples of  this quality.  A circle of  equals , If You will J  Crown is a circle  that represents the perfection of the ring and the  continuous loop.  Crown of Thorns originally mocking crown, had become a symbol of sacrifice and consecration.

It may be combined with other symbols , lines, it can be “full” , or “empty”, or two or more circles can c cross or interlace,  and depending on this may have additional meanings. Some examples are given bellow:

·         Circle halved with a line ( horizontally ) that extends beyond it’s perimeters ( both ends exceed circle diameter ),  is an old ideogram found  on pictures carved into Stones in the middle of Sahara. In modern interpretation may mean: open(ed)

·         Circle halved with a line ( “diagonally” )   that extends beyond it’s perimeters ( both ends exceed circle’s diameter  ), is a symbol for a Greek letter Phi, and represents a diameter of the circle.

·         Circle crossed with Equal Armed Cross that extends beyond it’s perimeters ( both ends exceed  circle’s  diameter   ) is  an alchemical symbol  of/for oil or wax. In music it means : repeat

·         Circle halved with  horizontal line, inside the circle’s perimeter only, not crossing the border, represents Greek letter theta , and Sun in early Chinese calligraphic writings

·         Circle  “hanging” , or touching a vertical line,  in Ancient Greek was a sign for Aphrodite, in Alchemy representing nighttime

·         Circle with a Cross inscribed inside, inside the circle’s perimeter only, not crossing the border, or circumference ,   represents Earth, and/or union of four elements in which case is known as Cross of Elements. Also a symbol of Fiat  brand

·         Three Circles crossing and forming a Triqutrea In the centre , represents The Holy Trinity in Christian Art. In occultism, the symbols is belied to possess  protective and enchanting   qualities

·         Double ( one smaller, and inside  other, forming thus a relatively narrow ring )  or   a “ringed “ circle is a symbol of charisma in Buddhism , and Halo in Christianity. In Talismanic magick it’s a common motif, where the words ( text ) or symbols are inscribed in  the ring appearing betwing the two circles

·         Five fold Circle  is Celtic symbol created by interlacing five circles, equidistantly, thus forming a Quatretra in the centre, around which a Circle is drawn, and it  represents the union of the four elements with the central element which is the Spirit element [3]

·         Circle crossed  with a “diagonal” Cross, inside it’s perimeter only, not crossing the border, is  a symbol of some neutralizing quality. If it has small circles touching the circle boundary  on four spots where the Cross arms end, it’s a seal of Jupiter.

These are just  few examples to illustrate the complexity of the Circle symbolism there are  many more, that could on their own fill pages of a large book , hence can not be discussed here more  thoroughly and comprehensively

 

In occultism, as mentioned above Circle has protective, and sometimes compelling and restrictive powers, as well as power to tie two or more planes of existence. Technically speaking, when a practitioner  opens a circle they create a direct column of energy , that causes ethereal and physical plane to collide in  the  very perimeter/ area, [4] hence create  something like “sacred space” or sacred circle.  The benefit of such work is that  this perimeter is strictly limited and hence influence during the ritual is channeled somewhat faster and more precise, although not more effective than any spell/ritual done without a circle.  Furthermore, if the spell is desired to take swift effect on physical plane, affecting more targets at once ( living and/or  inanimate ) ritual in circles can be less proficient in terms of result. 

The really important role of the ritual circle is protection. In Higher or Cemremonial magick , circle is actually required, for without it the practitioner would easily fall prey to attack of the spirits they invoke, particularly  if they are of malevolent nature.  Hence the circle represents the boundary  that evil can not pass, nor can spread it’s hazardous effect in area limited by    it,  and this is why the summoner/conjurer  remains in the circle’s perimeter.

 The Square

According to Plato , alongside the circle,  square represents beauty and perfection, and for Pythagoreans, the square represented soul.  For  the Ancient Egyptian’s   it was an “emblem “ of success. In Islam square is the  shape used to represent human heart, because the faible human heart is susceptible to four influences, being : human, Celestial, Divine and Infernal, while the heart of prophets in Islamic artwork, was  depicted as triangle, for it was believed to be immune of the last influence listed.  In abstract sense  squares  are symbolic of physical plane and existence, stability, foundation, immutability, home, often represents the Earth, and sometimes the Cosmos.

As opposed to the infinity of the Circles and spirals, Squares come with limitations, which can   even be seen from   not-so-positive perspective, hence the phrase “blocked”.  The limiting and constricting power though, really refers to secluded, separated or isolated spaces, such as camps, altars,   temples or castles. Squares  also represent basic blueprints, or cornerstones, building blocks, and that is very justifying of their association with   stability and foundations.

Squares also represent:

·         The four elements,  four seasons four quarters/corners / cardinal directions

·         Four phases of human life

·         Four basic cosmic elements ( Suns, Moons, Planets, Stars )

·         May represent four Archangels ( Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel )

Combined with lines, inscribed into other symbols such as circle, or combined with them squares get additional meanings, for example:

·         Square inside circle, touching the rim in four cardinal points, which also make  corners ( vertexes ) of the square is a Chinese symbol representing Earth temple, frequently seen in Baying. In occultism , a common pattern in magickal grimoires in talismanic arts

·         Square divided pn quarters with a  cross , inscribed in it, whose line do not exceed the perimeter of the square ( inscribed in the square ) is a Chinese symbol, ideogram  for field, ground or area

·         Square with  containing a dot in the centre ( where the diagonals cross  ) is a Chinese ideogram  representing village. In meteorology the same symbols represents damp soil, and in Alchemy  urine

·         Double square, somewhat smaller square drawn inside and parallel to the larger ( much like double circle or concentric circles ) is s modern symbol indicating need for restraining, incarceration, captivation, guard , or may indicate the same.

 

Furthermore,  equal - sided  rhomb can be considered  another form of square, if the diagonales are  equa l,   for the differences regarding the spiritual uses of the two are minute and neglectable, If there are any worth of mentioning, at all.  Eye of fire, an old German/Nordic symbol , is example of such,  being  essentially an rhomb divided on quarters with one vertical and one horizontal line. 

Square can be combined with another symbol , to form a new one, which would bear  different meaning. Sometimes the two symbols may merge, and as a  good example we have octagon, which many feel  is sort of “hybrid” between  the square and the circle.

In magick and occultism square is  used in money conjurations ( see example later in the text ), legal matters , home and consequently harmony, as well as  limiting someone, although for such, a block, as a 3D structure, that combines 6 squares is used.

In magick also prominent are palindrome squares consisting of numbers , or letters, that give equal sum or word in rows and lines. Such example is Sator square , or for example  various planetary squares called kameas , for example that of Saturn, I used in Freezer spell, in another article.

Triangle

The triangle is  particularly sacred symbol in Religion,  magick,  and  alchemy. It makes either a base or sides of a pyramid, but is essential for building one nevertheless.  It’s meaning and symbolism may, though vary depending on the position of the triangle’s apex, or  the length of the edges  ,  and consequently the angles. Equilateral Triangle is a symbol of The Most Holy Trinity in the Christianity, and If it contains an eye in the centre, it’s called “The Eye of Providence” and in such ( exact ) form is purely a Christian symbol that holds no negative connotations of or in itself . Regardless of what some silly and misinformed people with paranoid tendencies will say/claim.  More on this particular symbol , hopefully on another occasion. In Islamic artwork triangle is used to depict the heart of the Saints and/or prophets, as well as human(s) consciousness , and  the principle  of harmony.

Tribe “Pueblo” from Southwestern States, see upward pointing Triangle as  a symbol  of Sacred mountain, whereas the downward pointing one represents clouds. [5] In general occult thought , upward pointed triangle represents male principle, element of fire and success.  With it’s  point upwards,  symbolically aspireing  to reach the Heavens, it’s  also the symbol of ambition.

Also , it’s  connected to arrowheads , as they are triangles themselves and thus  represents  spiritual journeys and  spiritual searching.

In a way “opposed” to it , is the downward pointing triangle,  associated with the female principle, water, introspection, meditation and drawing something inward.

Another special  geometrical, or rather, image for is that formed by ten dots that are arranged  in four  rows ,  each having one less dot than the previous, hence the  last row having four and the first only one dot.  

This image is called  Tetractys or Triad, and it was sacred to the  Phytagoreans  which can be noted by it’s appearance in certain  their prayer and oath , referred to as “Mystic Tetrad” in these [6]

Similar figure, is found in   Kabala,  where instead the dots, which represented the four first numbers, thus giving the summation of ten ( unity of a higher order, for Pythagoreans , also called the Dekad )  , letters of Tetragrammaton were used. Some  occult authors claim that the units ( monad, dyad, triad, tetrad ) are associated with the  four top spheres of Tree of Life yet such claim is very  loose and debatable.  The Tetractys  arrangement had even spawned  a specific  Tarot card spreading method.

In occultism, certain magick words such as Oknotinos, for example were “waved” into charms, by writing them in a form of decreasing, or growing triangle ( starting with word, ending with single letter or otherwise ) depending on the purpose. The Oknotinos charm ( see example latter  ) is used to decrease the fewer.

Akin to the circle and the square,   triangle too gains 

Even more symbolic meanings and attributes , If and when combined with lines, dots or other figures. Or even when merged with them, or oneself. Let’s go through few examples:

·         Equilateral Triangle pointed upwards represents the element of fire

·         Equilateral Triangle pointed downwards represents the element of water

·         Equilateral Triangle pointed  upwards crossed with a line that exceeds the perimeter of it is a  symbol of Air

·         Equilateral  sided Triangle pointed downwards  crossed with a line that exceeds the perimeter of it is a  symbol of  Earth

·         Triangle with one 90’ angle  ( a and a dot  near the very angle, is an old apothecary symbol for lead ( metal )

·         A triangle, whose base halves a circle ( whose diameter is approximately 1/3  of the triangle ‘s base length  ) is a Alchemical symbol of Salty water

·         Triangle with all sides of different length  and one 90’ angle ( a is not equal to the b nor c, “right triangle”  ) is s classic Pythagorean   triangle emblem

·         Equilateral , downward pointed triangles with altitudes meeting in orthocenter , but not expanding  from it to the edges is called “Eye of the Dragon” or “Dragon’s eye” and  is an old Germanic  ( and Nordic ) ideogram representing danger

 

Hexagram or the Star of David, symbol of Judaic faith, as well as prominent occult symbol,   can be formed by combining the  upward and downward pointing triangle.  If inscribed into circle, it’s s symbol for alchemy, or a magickal pentacle for invocation, evocation, banishment, exorcism  and protection.

Money symbol spell

Draw the  square symbol given at right in sand, near the sea. Place Your palms over it and say:

"I only seek that what I need, 

some prosperity, send my way

Spirits and Sea hear my plead

send me some money,  my debts to pay"

You can use Your own words or power . As the  waves wash awa y the symbol, the spell is done. Prefferably done when the Moon waxes.

Triangular  charm healing spell

When the Moon is on the last day of waning cycle,  day before it shall start to wax again, do the following;
On 4 pieces of paper , preferably old, but clean , or that thorn up from a brown grocery paper bag, write the word: morbus in decreasing triangle fashion, meaning start with the whole word, then remove one letter in each row, starting from the last one
"morbus
orbus
rbus
bus
us
s"
As You write it down say: "Morbus ( ego ) occidam tibi !"

Burn one paper saying: "Illness, may the fire consume You" , drop another in the river or sea ( or even flush down the toilet If nothing else is available ) saying: "Illness may the water drown You", shred the third and release it in the winds ( or from some high place, such as top of the building, mountain etc. but try and plan to do this when there is some wind ) saying: "Illness may the winds blow and scatter You away" , and bury the final piece saying: "Illness, may the Earth decompose You"

On the first night of the waxing phase of the Moon ( New Moon ) take a single white or natural beeswax candle, place it atop of piece of paper on which You have written "sanitas" in growing Triangle fashion, starting with  one letter and finishing with the whole word ( s, as, tas, itas,...Sanitas ) , dress the candle with some healing oil If You have any, then light the candle and say:

Dei ego precor
Morbus evanescit,
Dolorem sistit
Sanitas restituendus sit.

When the candle burns all the way down, take the charm and the wax remaining and bury it all in Your yard,  in a  flower pot,  with  some long lasting plant , or in the forest. Under an Olive, Oak or Pine tree would be most suited If possible.

Hope You find this little bit of info  on symbolism and  and the practical application of same in magick   interesting   and helpful too

Many Blessings, lot of luv, Shadow  :)


NOTES: This article was written and composed by myself , should You wish to use any part of it elswhere  online, You may,  but add credits  Shadow of Shadow's magick  place, Shadow-333@hotmail.com or a direct link to this post

CREDITS AND RERENCES:

[1] According to “Illustrated Encyclopedia of  signs and symbols” by Mark O’Connell and Raje Airey 

[2] As stated on this wonderful and informational website :   http://www.whats-your-sign.com/circle-symbol-meaning.html

[3] According to, and for more information; http://www.whats-your-sign.com/five-fold-celtic-meanings.html

[4] According to Western Occult though,  discussed in works of Israel Regardie, as well as Franz  Bardo n

[5] According to the source listed under [1]

[6] According to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tetractys where both  the prayer and the oath are listed, for the reader’s convenience

IMAGE CREDITS: All the artwork and images is/are created by myself