tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25858153198117040522024-03-13T05:23:28.511+02:00Practical Kabbalah and Self CreationThis blog is devoted to an investigation into the topics addressed by Jacobus G. Swart in "The Book of Self Creation," "The Book of Sacred Names," "The Book of Seals & Amulets," and "The Book of Immediate Magic - Part 1," study guides for all who seek God within and who prefer to steer the courses of their lives in a personal manner.Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-72087394246977335042015-12-26T03:51:00.000+02:002015-12-26T04:53:22.399+02:00"The Book of Immediate Magic - Part 1" in Print!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X5aEAWWUpIg/Vn3R-tqrZVI/AAAAAAAAEeE/PUGc9K9mAFA/s1600/Swart_ImmediateMagicPart1_CoverFront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X5aEAWWUpIg/Vn3R-tqrZVI/AAAAAAAAEeE/PUGc9K9mAFA/s320/Swart_ImmediateMagicPart1_CoverFront.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div align="center"></div>It is with great pleasure that I announce the publication of "<i>The Book of Immediate Magic - Part 1</i>" [500 pages]. This is the first part of volume four of the "Shadow Tree Series," and it perpetuates the fundamental tenets of "Self Creation" in which it is maintained that the "Centre" establishes the "Circumference," and that personal reality is emanated in harmony with personal "Will." Hence this tome comprises an enhancement and expansion of the magical doctrines and techniques of <em>Kabbalah Ma’asit</em> (Practical Kabbalah) addressed in “<em>The Book of Self Creation</em>,” “<em>The Book of Sacred Names</em>,” and “<em>The Book of Seals & Amulets</em>.”<blockquote></blockquote>The fundamental claim is that working “Immediate Magic” is neither impossible, nor a difficult matter, when we fully understand that consciousness is just one vast ocean, and thoughts are the waves we make in it. All we need to do is guide the "currents of consciousness" which circulate through the "Ocean of Awareness" we all share, so that everyone benefits because of the modulations we make. In one way it is like a flow of pure energy. Each separate mind that uses it, is processing it in some way which will affect other minds accepting it. We live in a "sea" of each other’s thoughts, therefore, wherever you get a collection of specialist minds deliberately working on that consciousness with one accord for some specific reason, you are bound to produce a corresponding result in recipients. Hence the purpose of ritualised practice as a convenience for coordinating consciousness. Simple as that! <blockquote></blockquote>"<i>The Book of Immediate Magic - Part 1</i>" comprises:<blockquote></blockquote><b>1. <i>Or Oleh</i> — The Self & Self Creation</b> [62 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. The Importance of “Oneness”</blockquote><blockquote>B. Centre & Circumference</blockquote><blockquote>C. “Identification” Revisited </blockquote><blockquote>D. Emotions: “Tuning in to God Forces”</blockquote><blockquote>E. The “Nil Centre”</blockquote><b>2. <i>Or Hagdalat</i> — Divine Names & the Human Body</b> [76 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Improving Breath & Lung Capacity</blockquote><blockquote>B. Five Energy Centres & Ten Gates</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Sound & the Five Body Centres</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Uttering Sacred Names</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. Opening the Ten Gates</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>C. Directing the “Spirit Forces” of Divine Names</blockquote><blockquote>D. <i>Shefa</i>: Divine Abundance & Sacred Names</blockquote><blockquote>E. Tuning & Restructuring a Male Body</blockquote><b>3. <i>Or Yored</i> — Spirit Forces & Sacred Names</b> [91 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. The Quarters & the Elements</blockquote><blockquote>B. The Sacred Space & <i>Gevulim</i>: Boundaries</blockquote><blockquote>C. Aligning with “Spirit Forces”</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. The Hebrew Alphabet: <i>Otiot</i></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. The Potency of <i>Achatri’el</i></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. The “<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>” Revisited</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>4. Alignment with the Divine Self</blockquote></blockquote><b>4. <i>Or Chozer</i> — Becoming a Living <i>Kamea</i></b> [100 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Protection</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. The “Forty-two Letter Name of God”</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. <i>Taftafyah</i>: A Divine & Angelic Name</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. Special & Unique Protection</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>4. Protection in Times of War & Finding Peace</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>5. Keeping Human Evil in Check</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>B. Divine Aid, Guidance & Support</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Divine Guidance & Protection</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Invoking Immediate Spiritual Support</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. Invoking Divine Aid & Halting Epilepsy</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>C. Health & Healing</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Maintaining Good Health</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Healing & Physical Restoration</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>D. Study & Comprehension</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Improving Learning Ability</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Cultivating a strong Memory</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>E. Finance & Business Endeavours</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Livelihood, Benefaction & Benevolence</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Success in Business Endeavours</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. Success in General</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>F. Engendering Love & Affection</blockquote><blockquote>G. Guardian <i>Malachim</i>: Spirit Messengers</blockquote><b>5. <i>Or P’nimi</i> — Chants & Incantations</b> [108 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Preparation of Body, Mind & Soul</blockquote><blockquote>B. Formulas for Hebrew Incantations</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Divine Names & Magical Purposes</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Angels & Magical Purposes</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. Statements of Magical Intent</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>4. Incantation Formulas</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>C. Incantations for a Meaningful Life</blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>1. Support & Protection</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>2. Health & Healing</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>3. Love, Grace & Loving-Kindness</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>4. Endeavours of Great Joy</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>5. Sanctification of the Moon</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>6. Financial Success</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>7. Blessing the “Self”</blockquote></blockquote><blockquote><blockquote>8. Invoking “Divine Justice”</blockquote></blockquote><b>References & Bibliography</b> [23 pages]<blockquote></blockquote>The “<i>Shadow Tree Series</i>” comprises a unique collection of Western Esoteric studies and practices which I have actuated and taught over a period of forty years. I commenced my journey into the domain of Jewish Mysticism in the early 1970’s investigating mainstream Kabbalah, later diversifying into the magical mysteries of Practical Kabbalah. I equally expanded my personal perspectives of Western Magical Traditions under the careful tutelage of my late mentor, the celebrated English Kabbalist William G. Gray.<blockquote></blockquote>As in the case of all the previous and equally the forthcoming volumes comprising the “<i>Shadow Tree Series</i>,” the current text is dealing with the topic of the “magical” in our Tradition. In this regard, I again consulted an array of primary Hebrew literature, major portions of which are being made accessible in translation to an English readership for the first time. <blockquote></blockquote>You can access "<i>The Book of Immediate Magic - Part 1</i>" and other publications of the Sangreal Sodality Press directly at:<br />
<blockquote>http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/sangrealsodalitypress</blockquote><br />
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-88001698659407741482014-04-19T20:04:00.000+02:002014-04-19T23:22:33.249+02:00Divine Speech & the Foundation of LifeA very important point to consider when it comes to Hebrew Divine Names, is the fact that just as every letter of the Hebrew alphabet was, and still is, considered to be the “embodiment” of a Spirit Intelligence, each being an “Angel,” so to speak, so are Divine Names understood to be more than just personal identifications. It is believed that they actually are the respective qualities or aspects of Divinity hidden within their inner meanings, thus the incantation of “Divine Names” would release, as it were, the special powers they embody. These Names are considered to be “Words of Power,” since they are both expressions of the “nature” of Divinity, as well as “Angels” or Spirit Intelligences, who direct those aspects of the Divine Nature encapsulated within them into actual existence. Naturally such Divine Names would be of particular interest to many readers, however we first have to master some basic concepts and teachings before we can focus on practical applications. What is at present of primary importance to us, is to understand why “Divine Names” are so important in both speculative and practical <i>Kabbalah</i>, and here the primary factor is the Hebrew alphabet and its use as an “archetypal language,” so to speak.<br />
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In Hebrew the alphabet is referred to as the <i>Otiot</i>. This is the plural form of the word <i>Ot</i> meaning both a “letter” and a “sign,” since each letter implies a unique spiritual power. Another point that must be considered is that each Hebrew glyph is a word comprising letters, and that every letter has a specific meaning. Each letter also signifies an associated spiritual power through its form, sound and <i>gematria</i>, the latter referring to the fact that every Hebrew glyph is also a number and that words with the same numerical value are understood to relate to each other. This is indeed a most serious subject, since as mentioned earlier, every single sign of the Hebrew Alphabet is considered to be the embodiment of a “spirit intelligence,” and thus there are extremely strict rules as far as the construction and writing, the actual calligraphy, of each letter is concerned.<br />
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In fact, the written Hebrew glyphs themselves are understood to be “living intelligences” with bodies, minds and souls. The printed or written letter, including its vocal expression, comprises the physical part of its manifestation, that is its “body,” whereas in its essence it belongs to the subtle realm of <i>Maggidim</i>, the Angelic Messengers. In this subtle realm it multiplies, as it were, to create the manifested world of words, meanings and objects. In their primordial state of emanation the <i>Otiot</i> are the primordial frequencies of the Cosmos in that space (<i>Makom</i>) where all are one in the Eternal No-thing from whence all life emanates as Light.<br />
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So it is understood by some that the mere scanning of Hebrew glyphs, is enough to unleash powerful spiritual forces, which have remarkable effects on the psyche of the one who is doing the scanning. By this I mean that uttering a Divine Name, or even just reading it, causes an inner response in the reader or utterer, which is very important to know and acknowledge in a conscious manner. Furthermore, it is understood in <i>Kabbalah</i> that when the letters of the Hebrew Alphabet, the <i>Otiot</i>, are spoken with a suitably associated godly stance or intention, the “Angels” corresponding to those letters are invoked. Hence, in order to align oneself in an appropriate manner with these “Spirit Intelligences” in the Hebrew glyphs, Kabbalists employ the three traditional methods of <i>mivta</i>—vocalising the letters and names, <i>michtav</i>—writing them, and <i>mashav</i>— contemplating their forms.<br />
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However, I believe one has to first change ones normal reasoning from being involved with the delineation of objects to perceiving the objects directly. If we discuss a perfume, sound, or anything experienced through the senses, we invoke reactions and images stored in the memory of the listener, that is, we stimulate the imagination of a person. Here then we have to alter our usual approach of describing something to actually experiencing it as if we are it, and it is believed that this awareness is imparted by the Hebrew alphabet as a universal power to the mind. As we know, <i>Kabbalah</i> teaches that if you wish to achieve a desired state of awareness, one related to a specific attitude, you could “program,” as it were, that desired state into yourself through the use of an appropriate associated Divine Name. Even an affiliated word (not necessarily a Divine Name) used as a <i>Hagah</i> (Hebrew mantra), can reconstruct the psyche one way or the other. Again, as mentioned in “<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>,” and reiterated in "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>," as the Hebrew letters are formed into words which are uttered in prayers, or even just written down, the powers of those “Spirit Intelligences” associated with the letters are actually powerfully focussed in those words.<br />
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It is believed that it is through the powers inherent in the <i>Otiot</i> that many great wonders are worked in manifestation. In fact, Kabbalists understand quite clearly that the whole of existence, all forms within it, are expressions of the Hebrew letters into a multitude of configurations or “words.” This is understood to be the fundamental meaning of <i>Psalm 33:6</i> reading “By the word of God the heavens came into being, and all the host by the breath of his mouth.” It has been said that for Kabbalists the concepts of “name” and “form” equate, and that these are linked to the Hebrew alphabet, the fundamental essence of existence incorporating also “number” and “dimension.” Thus they have at their disposal a mighty instrument comprised of the glyphs of the <i>Otiot</i>, through which they do not only understand the workings of creation (<i>Ma’aseh B’reishit</i>), or manipulate material existence (<i>Ma’aseh Merkavah</i>), but can move into the “Inner Beingness” of the “Infinite Source,” through whom creation is continuously emanating into existence.<br />
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Kabbalists believe the universe continues to exist because its physical actuality is eternally reaffirmed in the “Now,” and it has been said that the sacred utterance which originated the heavens, abides within them forever. The cosmos perpetuates because the Divine utterance “Let there be a firmament” (<i>Genesis 1:4</i>) is enduringly reiterated in the “Now.” The same applies to every segment of manifestation in which the first Divine Utterance, “Let there be light,” is repeated endlessly. God’s original creative will is eternally present, if not, all would return to the “nothing” beyond manifestation. Thus the “word of God” gives being to all existence. The “word” literally “becomes flesh,” and in this regard the <i>Torah</i> plays a most major role for both Kabbalists and those mainstream religionists who view the Hebrew Bible to be an enormous Divine Name. Every word within it is a potent “Word of Power,” the utterance of which invokes extremely potent forces.<br />
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What is required and important in studying and working the techniques of practical <i>Kabbalah</i>, is the ability to recognise, read and utter the letters and Divine Names. In this regard, a general introduction to the mystical meaning of each letter, as well as gaining some ideas regarding certain Hebrew terms, is perfectly acceptable. Such knowledge can facilitate not only a deeper insight into the more profound interpretations of Sacred Scripture, but also a more profound perspective on the meaning of creation and all life within it. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to concentrate on the concept of the divine within the language, and how, through several methods, this knowledge is expanded into one of the most remarkable systems of God and self “realisation.” This I have attempted to address in as great as possible detail in the first three volumes of my "Shadow Tree Series," i.e. "<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>"; "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>"; and "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>."Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-65241331753183189602014-04-16T00:20:00.000+02:002014-04-17T23:53:37.273+02:00The Spiritual Garment & the Colours of the SefirotIn "<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>" I referred to a unique literature in <i>Kabbalah</i> dealing with what is termed a “<i>Malbush</i>,” a special spiritual “garment.” These writings are amongst the most interesting which have survived in the collection of Merkavistic documents. A fair amount of this literature weathered the travails of time, and some has been made available in English, e.g. in the translations of <i>Shi’ur Komah</i> material.<br />
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The <i>Sod ha-Malbush</i> (Secret of the Garment) refers to a special vestment which spirit entities have to dress themselves in, acting almost like a skin as it were. It is said higher beings, i.e. angels, have to wear such a “garment” when they descend to a “lower world” like ours, in order to become visible in these lower domains. The following quote from an anonymous Kabbalistic text, the <i>Sefer ha-Meshiv</i> (The Book of the Answering [Angel]), apparently written in Spain in the first half of the 15th century, is most informative regarding angels descending and becoming visible through the power of a special spiritual garment:<blockquote>“You should know that the secret causing the descent of the supernal book is the secret of the descent of the supernal chariot, and when you pronounce the secret of the great name, immediately the force of the ‘garment’ will descend downward, which is the secret of Elijah, who is mentioned in the work of the sages. And by this R. Simeon bar Yochai and Jonathan ben Uzziel learned their wisdom, and they were deserving of the secret of the ‘garment,’ to be dressed in it. And R. Chanina and R. Nechuniya ben ha-Kanah and R. Akiva and R. Ishmael ben Elisha and our holy rabbi and Rashi and many others learned likewise. And the secret of the ‘garment’ is the vision of the garment,’ which the angel of God is dressed in, with a corporeal eye, and it is he who is speaking to you.....And the secret of the garment was given to those who fear God and meditate upon his name; they have seen it, those men who are the men of God were worthy of this state. And they were fasting for forty days continuously, and during their fast they pronounced the Tetragrammaton forty-five times, and on the fortieth day (the ‘garment’) descended to him and showed him whatever he wished [to know], and it stayed with him until the completion of the [study of the] subject he wanted [to know].....” [quoted in <b>Idel, M.:</b> <i>Absorbing Perfections: Kabbalah and Interpretation</i>, Yale University Press, New Haven & London 2002]</blockquote>By the end of the 16th century the doctrine of the <i>Malbush</i> was transformed in the writings of Israel Sarug, who saw it as the primordial <i>Torah</i>, a garment comprising the exact combinations of letters constituting the 231 gates referred to in the <i>Sefer Yetzirah</i>, which according to Sarug played an important role in the act of creation.<br />
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Now, I chanced upon a statement comparing this donning of the <i>Malbush</i> to the saga of the “Fall of Man.” In this case it is said that we ourselves were originally spiritual beings, but were obliged to dress ourselves in “coats of skin” in order to exist in this nether world. However, as in the case of Angelic beings having to wear a “garment” in their descent to this nether world, we too have to clothe ourselves in a garment of light in order to ascend into the loftier realms of existence. In this regard, I noted in "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>," that we are taught that during conception a soul is granted a <i>Levush Neshamah</i>, a “soul garment,” which can accurately be considered the “body” used by the <i>Neshamah</i>, the “Higher Self,” during the period of its incarnation in the flesh.<br />
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I further noted that Chaim Vital maintained “there is no soul [<i>Neshamah</i>] in the world.....that can exist naked, without a garment [<i>Levush</i>] in which it is clothed in this world.”[<b>Vital, Chaim:</b> <i>Sha’ar ha-Gilgulim</i>, edited Yehudah Ashlag, Eshel, Tel Aviv 1961; quoted in <b>Fine, L.:</b> <i>Physician of the Soul, Healer of the Cosmos: Isaac Luria and His Kabbalistic Fellowship</i>, Stanford University Press, Stanford 2003.] In fact, it is understood that throughout our lives, we receive the sacred life-force, or “Divine Abundance,” via these <i>Levushei Neshamot</i>, these “bodies of light” of our Higher Selves. It is maintained that the actual quality of this “garment” is dependent on both parents, the best “garment” being acquired when the parents of the soul in question love each other, acknowledge the sanctity of their sexual union, and couple in holiness.[<b>Zacutto, M.:</b> <i>Shorshei ha-Shemot</i>, Hotzaat Nezer Shraga, Jerusalem 1999.] In this regard, Meir Poppers tells us that even in the case where “a great soul” is incarnating in the flesh, that soul “needs the sanctity of his father and mother during lovemaking so as to bring forth a superior garment, lest this garment cause him to sin.”[<b>Poppers, M.:</b> <i>Ta’amei ha-Mitzvot</i>, Vilna 1880. Transl. in <b>Fine, L.:</b> <i>Physician of the Soul, Healer of the Cosmos: Isaac Luria and His Kabbalistic Fellowship</i>, <i>Op. cit</i>.] In fact, in the case of such a sacred sexual union, the <b>Kavvanah</b> (focussed attention) of the one to be born will be centered on <i>Achatri’el</i>, whilst he or she is being clothed in the “<i>Levush Neshamah</i>.”[<b>Zacutto, M.:</b> <i>Shorshei ha-Shemot</i>, <i>Op. cit</i>.]<br />
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Now, sometimes the <i>Malbush</i>, the "spiritual garment," was perceived to be a literal garment, a "mantle of righteousness," as in the case of a work entitled “<i>The Book of the Putting on and Fashioning of the mantle of Righteousness</i>.”[<i>Sefer ha-Malbush v’Tikkun me’il ha-Tzedakah</i>, MS British Museum, Margoliouth 752; quoted in <b>Scholem, G.:</b> <i>On the Kabbalah and Its Symbolism</i>, Schocken Books Inc., New York 1965] In this instance a pure deer-hide parchment was chosen and a sleeveless garment, in the form of a high priest’s <i>Efod</i>, was cut from this. It covered the shoulders and the chest, falling down the sides to the loins, and stretching down to the navel. A hood was connected to the garment, and on this “magic robe” the secret Divine Names were written. The practitioner was however not allowed to dress in this robe until the following conditions were fulfilled.<br />
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The wearer had to fast for a week, was not allowed to touch anything unclean, and had to follow a vegetarian diet. At the end of the week he was supposed to go to a body of water, such as a river or a lake, during the night, and call the Divine Name written on the parchment-robe over the water. If he saw a green shape above the water, something still unclean was within the individual concerned, and the preparations would have to be repeated for another seven days, accompanied by <i>Mitzvot</i> (good deeds) and <i>Tzedakah</i> (Acts of Righteousness mainly understood to be charitable deeds). If the shape over the water was red, “know that you are inwardly clean and fit to put on the Name. Then go into the water up to your loins and put on the venerable and terrible Name in the water.” This “putting on the Mantle of Righteousness” was believed to give the wearer immeasurable power.<br />
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It is a mystery to me why seeing a green figure “above the water” should signify “uncleanness” or the vision of red figure should specifically be equated with “purity” or “cleanliness,” but there are perhaps some clues in one of the first systems in <i>Kabbalah</i> of attributing colours to the various <i>Sefirot</i> on the Tree of Life, the colours then being mainly blue, red, green, white and black. Of course the last two are not really colours, but we should remember that the latter were definitely considered colours by these authors. Red, Green and White are by far the most important colours in this system, which Cordovero explained in some detail in his introduction to Kabbalah.[<b>Robinson, I.:</b> <i>Moses Cordovero’s Introduction to Kabbalah: An Annotated Translation of His Or Ne’erav</i>, The Michael Sharf Publication Trust of the Yeshiva University Press, New York 1994.] He said “colours are ascribed to the qualities [<i>Sefirot</i>] according to their actions,” and originally these were:<blockquote><i>Keter</i> (Crown) — White/Black</blockquote><blockquote><i>Chochmah</i> (Wisdom) — Blue</blockquote><blockquote><i>Binah</i> (Understanding) — Green</blockquote><blockquote><i>Chesed</i> (Loving-kindness/Mercy) — White</blockquote><blockquote><i>Gevurah</i> (Strength/Severity) — Red</blockquote><blockquote><i>Tiferet</i> (Beauty) — White</blockquote><blockquote><i>Netzach</i> (Victory/Endurance)— Red</blockquote><blockquote><i>Hod</i> (Glory/Splendour) — Green</blockquote><blockquote><i>Yesod</i> (Foundation) — White</blockquote><blockquote><i>Malchut</i> (Kingdom) — White</blockquote>Rabbi Cordovero explained that as one cannot attribute any colour to Nothingness, no colour can be ascribed to <i>Keter</i>, a <i>sefirah</i> understood to be balanced between the states of pure being and becoming, but still hidden, as it were, within the Eternal No-Thing. He referred to <i>Keter</i> as being represented by the extremes of white and black. As white is understood to represent “Mercy,” it shows the “Mercy of <i>Keter</i>.” The attribution of black is said to indicate the true “essence” of Divinity, beyond time, space and events, hidden as said. Thus the great Rabbi wrote in <i>Pardes Rimmonim</i> “That essence does not change colour at all, neither judgment nor compassion, neither right nor left. Yet by emanating through the [<i>Sefirot</i>]—the variegated stained glass—judgment or compassion prevails.”[<b>Cordovero, M.:</b> <i>Pardes Rimmonim</i> quoted in <b>Matt, D.C.:</b> <i>The Essential Kabbalah: The Heart of Jewish Mysticism</i>, HarperSanFrancisco, San Francisco 1995]<br />
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Cordovero referred to <i>Chochmah</i> as the “beginning of action” and referred to blue as the “beginning of the development of colour from blackness,” or the first radiations of light from <i>Ain Sof</i>. He further stated that green is attributed to <i>Binah</i> since this colour “contains the colours of red and white, which are perceived together.” He also claimed that it “contains the colour blue, which is from <i>Chochmah</i>.” Cordovero is saying simply that <i>Binah</i> unites the principles of “Mercy” and “Severity,” respectively “white” and “red,” and is also channelling “Wisdom” (blue).<br />
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Now, while “white” is attributed to <i>Chesed</i>, its colour is considered to be quite different from that of <i>Keter</i>, almost as if the Light of Mercy, having been received via <i>Chochmah</i> and <i>Binah</i>, had become a bit contaminated and was thus somewhat grey, with a good dose of “blue” (Wisdom) in it. Now, while Gevurah is considered to be red (the colour of judgment), Cordovero attributed a number of colours to it. He said that blue can also be found here, since the “Light of <i>Gevurah</i>” also emanated via <i>Chochmah</i> and <i>Binah</i>, but he said this <i>sefirah</i> is also black because it contains that aspect of retribution that “blackens the faces of creatures.” Cordovero considered the special link between <i>Gevurah</i> and <i>Binah</i> by referring to “the joysome wine which proceeds from <i>Gevurah</i> to <i>Binah</i>.”<br />
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While <i>Tiferet</i> is traditionally understood to be white, Cordovero saw it as basically green, as well as comprising the principles represented by several colours at work within this special <i>sefirah</i>. Thus he wrote: “They ascribed to it sapphire in extension of <i>Da’at</i> (Knowledge). In its revealed aspect of determination, it includes white and red, that is, the green of an egg yolk, in truth. Now <i>Tiferet</i> includes the colour[s] of <i>Chesed</i> and <i>Gevurah</i> in one of two [manners]. It is either above them in the mystery of <i>Da’at</i>, which includes them in their roots or in its lower aspect, that is, the mixture of red and white. It also possess the colour of purple, which includes five colours. They are the mystery [of the angels] <i>Uriel</i>, <i>Refael</i>, <i>Gavriel</i>, <i>Michael</i>, and <i>Nuriel</i>.” [<b>Robinson, I.:</b> <i>Moses Cordovero’s Introduction to Kabbalah: An Annotated Translation of His Or Ne’erav</i>, <i>Op. cit</i>.]<br />
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<i>Netzach</i> and <i>Hod</i> are respectively described as “red shading to white, for it is mostly mercy because of its orientation to the side of <i>Chesed</i>,” and “white shading to red because it is mostly Judgment due to its orientation to the side of <i>Gevurah</i>.”<br />
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Again, whereas <i>Yesod</i> was originally considered to be white, as were all the spheres of the “Middle Pillar”—being the “Pillar of Being” in contradistinction to the outer “Pillars of Doing,” Cordovero maintained <i>Yesod</i> to be “a mixture of white shading to red and red shading to white,” thus focussing the qualities of <i>Netzach</i> and <i>Hod</i> within itself. However, since the Light of <i>Yesod</i> is refracted via the preceding <i>Sefirot</i>, the colour of <i>Yesod</i> was also understood to be a kind of sapphire blue.<br />
<br />
Finally <i>Malchut</i>, originally white, was seen by Cordovero to comprise all colours, i.e. all the Light derived from all the <i>Sefirot</i> was focussed in <i>Malchut</i>, which is like a rainbow.<br />
<br />
Now, looking at this teaching in which the <i>sefirot</i> of the “Middle Pillar” are white, and the colours red and green are connected to certain <i>sefirot</i> on the “Outer Pillars” it is clear that “Understanding” and “Splendour” (or “Glory”), representing the top and bottom of the “Left Pillar” are “Green,” while “Severity” — which represents the forces of <i>Din</i> (Judgment) [also considered “Discipline” as well as <i>Pachad</i> (“Fear”)], and <i>Netzach</i> (“Victory”) [also considered “Endurance” and “Determination”] are “Red.”<br />
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Using this information in order to comprehend the earlier references to the states of “purity” and “uncleanness” of an invocant attempting to put on the “Mantle of Righteousness,” this being indicated above the water respectively by a “red figure” and a “green figure,” and knowing very well that one is often confronted with that which one needs most in ones life, these messages might be interpreted this way:<br />
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Green figure: “While you perceive the splendour [<i>Hod</i>—green] of comprehension [<i>Binah</i>—green], you are in a state of imbalance [Left Pillar only]. You have not used self-discipline [<i>Gevurah</i>—red] in order to conquer [<i>Netzach</i>—red] lower desires and your fears [<i>Gevurah</i>—red].”<br />
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Red figure: “Your fears [<i>Gevurah</i>—red] have been conquered [<i>Netzach</i>—red]. Having proceeded with determination [<i>Netzach</i>—red], you were brought by your discipline [<i>Gevurah</i>—red] of self to a state of victory [<i>Netzach</i>—red] which will endure [<i>Netzach</i>—red].”<br />
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However.....there are many different ways in which these indicators can be read.....as many as there are people to interpret them. Everyone will understand in accordance with personal perceptions. Truly, each one of us perceives the world through “me”–coloured glasses!Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-33909085104744978052014-02-04T16:23:00.001+02:002014-02-04T16:27:49.641+02:00Kabbalah and the OccultHaving completed and published "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>," the third volume of what I chose to term the "<i>Shadow Tree Series</i>," I am contemplating the unpredictable "mystical journey" I have been traversing since the appearance of the first volume, "<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>," five years ago, i.e. the amazing Companions who shared the journey with me; the realisation that I have personally gained so much from sharing material which were not so readily accessible to an English speaking readership, and that I am commencing writing the fourth volume, "<i>The Book of Immediate Magic</i>," with my mind ready to embrace the next glimpse into, as it were, the "Greater Whole of Divine Manifestation."<br />
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Obviously all human viewpoints are of necessity limited in terms of the "<i><b>All</b></i>" of the "All-in-All" and the "All-with-All," and I understand that my fundamental intention to share primary material from the vast arena of <i>Practical Kabbalah</i> in harmony with what is popularly termed the "<i>Western Mystery Tradition</i>," has become a life task. In this regard, considering my current age, it might be difficult in this incarnation to fully realise the estimated twelve titles which I believe would make this a definitive investigation into Jewish mystical/ magical teachings, the latter having been accessible to only a selected few for many centuries.<br />
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Be that as it may, I recall how, prior to commencing writing this series of "esoteric/occult" texts, I have "quizzed a host of individuals regarding their understanding of what they think 'the occult' or 'occultism' was all about," and, as I mentioned in "<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>," some were "greatly suspicious of the 'hidden agenda' behind my query," and I also recall how "I ended up with a most confusing list of what is considered 'occult' by both the general public as well as by those who claim to have 'informed insight,' the latter often hinting vaguely at having acquired their sagacity straight from the horse’s mouth." In the said tome I shared ten extracts from a large list of what the individuals I queried considered to be "occult." As noted in the mentioned publication, the phrasing of some of the responses were very amusing, and I thought sharing the direct quotes here might equally bring a smile to the faces of those who peruse this blog. So here they are for your amusement, or "serious consideration".....if you so will!<blockquote><b>1.</b> Astrology and related “astral arts.” To Astrology many joined numerology and “analysis of one’s birth date,” the latter being considered different from “numerology” by some.</blockquote><blockquote><b>2.</b> Palmistry, graphology (handwriting analysis), “checking the moles on one’s body” and “looking at one’s liver to find out what the weather would be like tomorrow.” Since the latter two responses were so amusing, I could not resist quoting them verbatim. Included here is the practice of “reading faces,” and other related divinatory activities pertaining to one’s personal anatomy.</blockquote><blockquote><b>3.</b> Freemasonry, Rosicrucianism, etc., and literally every organization—whether involved in esoteric studies or not—whose meetings are held in private or considered clandestine, are all considered “occult.” Even if their meetings were open to the public and their practices common knowledge, it is believed they were still meeting in “secret” and were working “hidden rituals which we do not know.”<br />
<br />
On inquiring how these respondents could have such direct information regarding these hidden details, they often turned offensive.</blockquote><blockquote><b>4.</b> UFO’s and the Egyptian pyramids, which some maintained are linked to “crop circles in England,” and according to others to “South America,” and again according to still others to a large hole in the North Pole (some having a suspicion that such a hole also exists in the South Pole and elsewhere, e.g. a special mountain somewhere in the USA), which leads to a powerful, sinister anti-Christian world in the centre of the Earth. This is but a brief summary of a voluminous list comprising even more outrageous related responses.</blockquote><blockquote><b>5.</b> All forms of Divinations, e.g. Tarot, I Ching, Dream Interpretations, etc., far too numerous to list here in full.</blockquote><blockquote><b>6.</b> “Wearing charms on your wrists”! At the time I thought the respondent might not object to one wearing these around one’s ankles, but suspecting that the objection is to wearing “lucky charms” in general, I did not bother to question any further. As it is, there were many who thought “charms,” “horseshoes,” “amulets, “talismans,” etc., to be positively diabolical since they “interfere with the work of God.”<br />
<br />
I meant to ask how these objects meddled with “the work of the Almighty,” but since the fanaticism of many of the respondents would have deemed me one of the “fallen ones doomed to eternal damnation,” I thought further probing would be a waste of time.</blockquote><blockquote><b>7.</b> Spiritualism, “travelling in the air with the help of demons,” “making oneself invisible,” and “calling up the dead which is called ‘necromancy’ which is calling up demons for nasty purposes.” In this case, the passionate look and excitement of the respondent conjured up images in my mind of demons fornicating with humans blissfully heaving under the furious onslaught, though I cannot be sure that this is what the respondent had in mind.</blockquote><blockquote><b>8.</b> Crystals and stones, “herbs used for occult reasons”—heaven knows what the respondent was talking about. Be that as it may, the most amusing response here must certainly be “Kissing stones and the rings of the bishops and the Mafia”! This response reduced me to fits of laughter!</blockquote><blockquote><b>9.</b> “Doing black rituals with blood taken from the stabbed vagina of a virgin”.....<i>OY!</i> .....and all forms of ritual magic and witchcraft, which include “praying to angels and demons.” Here I wanted to remind the respondent, who informed me that he was a most committed Roman Catholic, that his own religion called on the aid of “angels and saints.”<br />
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Be that as it may, one respondent queried whether I knew that David Copperfield and David Blaine have actually “sold their soles (sic!) to the Devil and that the public does not know that they are working REAL magic”? The same individual added apologetically that there is of course no such thing as “real magic.” Well.....did the mentioned individuals work “real magic” or not? Since I did not pursue the topic with the respondent, there is no conclusive answer forthcoming.</blockquote><blockquote><b>10.</b> My compilation of what the general public considers to be “occult” comprises over 2,000 different and, in many instances, unique responses. I certainly do not intend presenting you with the full enumeration, but I thought I would conclude this very condensed summary of my survey with a tenth “unique” response (10 being the “lucky number” as it corresponds to the ten “<i>Sefirot</i>” which might turn out to be fortuitous for me!)<br />
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This response is especially interesting as it derived from a “reborn Christian” who maintained the Roman Catholic church is practising “black magic all the time” by changing the wine in the communion chalice into the literal “blood of Jesus” and then drinking it. He added some thoughts regarding the “Virgin Mary” whom he said “is not the mother of Jesus but a pagan goddess of sacrifice who demands the blood of the Christian god which is the blackest side of occultism!”<br />
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Where have we heard that one before? Haven’t Jews been accused of ritually sacrificing Christian children in order to drink their blood during Passover dinners, etc., and this despite the fact that religious Jews do not actually eat or drink blood at all, such actions being strictly forbidden by Jewish religious laws?</blockquote>My survey concluded with the realisation that there is not an absolutely clear or exact definition of “the Occult.” An etymological dictionary, which we might at least consider somewhat reputable, defines the term:<blockquote>“<b>Occult:</b> from Latin <i>occult</i>-(<i>tum</i>) past participle of <i>occulere</i> ‘to cover up, conceal’ <i>oc</i>– & base <i>kel</i>– etc., ‘to hide,’ and seen in <i>celare</i>, ‘to hide.” 1. Hidden, secret, esoteric. 2. Specifically supernatural, mystic, magical: <i>occult sciences</i>; also as noun <i>the Occult</i>..... <br />
<b>Occultism:</b> Theory of, and belief in supernatural, occult (unknown) forces and powers; study or practice of occult sciences and arts.....”</blockquote>If I take these definitions at face value, then I am obliged to concede that all religious worship and all spiritual activities fall in the “occultism” category! On the other hand, since most of the items listed above have actually lost their earlier “hidden” status, and are now openly shared in the gutter press, i.e. journals and daily newspapers around the globe, it is somewhat odd to continue considering these topics “occult” from their erstwhile “clandestine status” perspective. In fact, as indicated earlier, the word “occult” is used loosely as a reference to any spiritual activity viewed with disapproval, or with approval by those who, like myself, define themselves “occultists.” While there are amongst the latter several of the “sensationalist” variety, there are equally many who are most seriously aligned with the Western Mystery Tradition as a whole.<br />
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So how about <i>Kabbalah</i> and “the Occult”? At one stage Kabbalah was considered “occult,” because it was a “hidden tradition” accessed by relatively few committed students and serious investigators. Considering the items earlier listed “occult,” most of them are present in what is called “<i>Jewish Kabbalah</i>” or what I prefer to term “<i>Traditional Kabbalah</i>.” For example:<blockquote><b>1.</b> Both astrology and numerology comprise major portions of Kabbalistic doctrine, and a large quantity of primary information is devoted to this topic both within mainstream Judaic texts and mystical writings.</blockquote><blockquote><b>2.</b> Palmistry (<i>Chochmat ha-Yad</i>) and studying the face (<i>Chochmat ha-Partzuf</i>), including examining the “moles” on the body, were practised by Kabbalists.<br />
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We might also note that the Holy Ari, read the faces of those he encountered, but I must admit that none I am aware of were actually investigating the “livers” of their fellow humankind, or the innards of sacrificed beasts to ascertain weather conditions or anything else for that matter!</blockquote><blockquote><b>3.</b> As to the possibility that there might have been organizations or schools considered “occult,” i.e. hidden or clandestine, amongst Kabbalists, there were indeed many Kabbalistic schools down the centuries who kept their teachings hidden from all but a very restricted membership. <i>Kabbalah</i> was for a long time, and in many instances still is, an exclusive esoteric tradition within the ranks of the larger community, and while the existence of such schools were common knowledge, their doctrines were secret and available to the mentioned very select few. What is more, they worked special ritualistic practices unknown to those outside their closest circles of companionship.</blockquote><blockquote><b>4.</b> UFO’s, Egyptian Pyramids and “crop circles” do not play a part in <i>Kabbalah</i>, even though some years back an acquaintance arranged for a “crop circle Tree of Life” to be constructed for her. Neither do “holes in the poles” feature in Kabbalistic doctrines. Probably the only “Inner World” Kabbalists might be interested in, is the “the World to Come.”</blockquote><blockquote><b>5.</b> As far as all sorts of divinations are concerned, there are very many in <i>Kabbalah</i>, including the mentioned “dream interpretations” discussed. Consulting a variety of oracles (<i>Goralot</i>) is also not a strange pursuit amongst Kabbalists.</blockquote><blockquote><b>6.</b> Wearing special “charms,” “amulets” or “talismans” was not a strange phenomenon in Kabbalistic circles, which included some of the greatest masters writing “<i>Kameot</i>” amongst their ranks. These <i>kameot</i> range in purpose from protection during childbirth to the promotion of physical health and the invocation of financial success, etc. There is an enormous literature, penned by “authentic” Kabbalists, in existence on this very topic.<br />
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Regarding <i>kameot</i>, there are some who are of the opinion that they have been replaced by modern medication, e.g. pills. There are however many within this tradition, myself included, who prefer to employ <i>kameot</i> “with understanding” rather than taking pills “without understanding.” It should also be noted that not all “<i>Kameot</i>” and “<i>Segulot</i>”(Magical Remedies [Spiritual Treasures]) are of the “pill taking” variety, and that the principles underlying “<i>Kameot</i>” are quite different from the mind-set behind taking pills.</blockquote><blockquote><b>7.</b> Contacting the “spirits of the dead” is equally not a foreign custom amongst Kabbalists, who to this very day indulge in prostrating themselves on the graves of departed saints and chanting special incantations, in order to establish a link between the “soul” of the departed and themselves. Here we might also consider the topic of “<i>Maggidim</i>,” a term used in reference to anything from living lay preachers to “spirit messengers,” some of whom are spirits of the deceased. In fact, this is what an “<i>Ibbur</i>,” the beneficial “impregnation” of a living human by a deceased soul, is all about, which should be carefully distinguished from a “<i>dibbuk</i>” which pertains to malevolent possession.<br />
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As far as the earlier statement regarding “travelling through the air with the help of demons” is concerned, we might note “<i>kefitzat ha-derech</i>,” magical travel from one destination to another, which involved the use of what is termed the “air of demons.” When it comes to the use of techniques to create “invisibility,” we again have several instances of these being employed in “<i>Practical Kabbalah</i>.” Consider for example the great Shalom Sharabi, who is reported to have made his way to the Wailing Wall every night at midnight to pray. At the time the terrain of the Wailing Wall was prohibited to Jews, but this did not deter the remarkable 18th century Kabbalist from employing a special method to range himself invisible to the guards.</blockquote><blockquote><b>8.</b> While I have certainly not seen Kabbalists kissing the rings, or the butts for that matter, of some highly esteemed noble or notorious personality, I have certainly perused writings describing the benefits derived from the use of certain minerals, plants, and other substances for a variety of special purposes.</blockquote><blockquote><b>9.</b> Again <i>Kabbalah</i> is no stranger to activities classified in the “ceremonial magic” genre. There are numerous rituals, incantationary uses of Divine Names, angelic invocations, etc. to be found in the primary magical texts of “<i>Practical Kabbalah</i>.”</blockquote>It is worth noting that the practitioners of all the related primary works, very many of which I have listed in the extensive bibliographies of the three published volumes of the "<i>Shadow Tree Series</i>," were all Rabbis, greatly esteemed in their communities. So, having established that most of what is generally considered “occult” was flourishing in the very heart of Jewish mysticism, I am baffled by claims denying any primary connection between <i>Kabbalah</i> and “the Occult.”Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-67208134977478867902014-01-25T04:24:00.000+02:002014-01-25T13:05:34.294+02:00"The Book of Seals & Amulets" in print!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VAUW9PBe_XU/UuMJ3f9OQcI/AAAAAAAAEMc/O9dj7wIQ3h0/w89-h140-p/BookOfSeals_FrontCoverA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VAUW9PBe_XU/UuMJ3f9OQcI/AAAAAAAAEMc/O9dj7wIQ3h0/w89-h140-p/BookOfSeals_FrontCoverA.jpg" /></a></div>I am delighted to inform you that "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>" [508 pages] is now in print. This, the third volume of the "Shadow Tree Series," comprises a comprehensive investigation into the meaning and relevance of Celestial Alphabets, Magical Seals, Magic Squares, Divine and Angelic Names, etc., as well as their employment in Hebrew Amulets in order to benefit personal wellbeing in a most significant manner. Continuing the standards I set in "<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>" and "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>," I offer detailed instruction on the contents and construction of Hebrew Amulets. I again consulted the enormous array of relevant primary Hebrew literature, large sections of which are now available to an English readership for the first time.<br />
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"<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>" comprises: <br />
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<strong>Chapter 1: <i>Levanah</i> — Sacred Names in Hebrew Amulets</strong> [106 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. <i>Adonai</i></blockquote><blockquote>B. <i>Ehyeh</i></blockquote><blockquote>C. Ineffable Name</blockquote><blockquote>D. <i>Shadai</i></blockquote><blockquote>E. Enigmatic Divine Names<br />
<blockquote>1. <i>Agala’a</i></blockquote><blockquote>2. <i>Azbogah</i></blockquote><blockquote>3. <i>Atneik</i></blockquote><blockquote>4. <i>BYT</i></blockquote><blockquote>5. <i>Taftafyah</i></blockquote><blockquote>6. <i>Yohach Kalach</i></blockquote><blockquote>7. <i>Kuzu B’mochsaz Kuzu</i></blockquote><blockquote>8. <i>Matz’patz</i></blockquote><blockquote>9. <i>Ashtzei</i></blockquote><blockquote>10. <i>Tzurtak</i></blockquote><blockquote>11. <i>Tzamarchad</i></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>F. The Twenty-two Letter Name</blockquote><blockquote>G. The Forty-Two Letter Name</blockquote><blockquote>H. The Name of Seventy-two Names</blockquote><blockquote>I. Compounded Employment of Divine Names</blockquote><strong>Chapter 2: <i>Kochav</i> — Letter, Word & Number Squares</strong> [59 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Letter Squares</blockquote><blockquote>B. Word Squares</blockquote><blockquote>C. Number Squares<br />
<blockquote>1. Magic Square of the Third Order</blockquote><blockquote>2. Magic Square of the Fourth Order</blockquote><blockquote>3. Magic Square of the Fifth & Sixth Order</blockquote><blockquote>4. Magic Square of the Seventh Order</blockquote><blockquote>5. Magic Square of the Eighth & Ninth Order</blockquote></blockquote><strong>Chapter 3: <i>Nogah</i> — Sacred Writ & <i>Kameot</i></strong> [77 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. A River went out of Eden</blockquote><blockquote>B. Psalms.....Psalms.....Everywhere! <br />
<blockquote><i>Psalm 1</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Psalm 2</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Psalm 67</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Psalm 91</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Psalm 106</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Psalm 121</i></blockquote></blockquote><strong>Chapter 4 : <i>Shemesh</i> — Secret Alphabets & Magical Seals</strong> [55 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Celestial Alphabets <br />
<blockquote>1. <i>Kolmosin Micha’el</i></blockquote><blockquote>2. <i>Kolmosin Gavri’el</i></blockquote><blockquote>3. <i>Kolmosin Ori’el</i> (<i>Nuri’el</i>)</blockquote><blockquote>4. <i>K’tav Avar ha-Nehar</i></blockquote><blockquote>5. <i>K’tav ha-Malachim</i></blockquote><blockquote>6. <i>K’tav Tz’va ha-Shamayim</i></blockquote><blockquote>7. <i>Alfa Beta shel Metatron</i></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote>B. <i>Chotamot</i> (Magical Seals)</blockquote><strong>Chapter 5 : <i>Madim</i> — Angels, Demons & Amulets for Protection</strong> [45 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Angelic Hosts</blockquote><blockquote>B. Fiendish Hordes</blockquote><blockquote>C. Amulets for Protection</blockquote><strong>Chapter 6 : <i>Tzedek</i> — <i>Kameot</i> for Health, Wealth & Happiness</strong> [33 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. Health & Healing</blockquote><blockquote>B. Wealth & Success</blockquote><blockquote>C. Amulets & Elements</blockquote><strong>Chapter 7 : <i>Shabetai</i> — Patterns, Shapes & Sizes</strong> [43 pages]<br />
<blockquote>A. <i>Chabusa:</i> Six-petalled Rosette</blockquote><blockquote>B. <i>Menorah:</i> Seven-branched Candelabrum</blockquote><blockquote>C. <i>Magen David:</i> Shield of David</blockquote><blockquote>D. The Hand</blockquote><blockquote>E. Printed Amulets</blockquote><blockquote>F. Disposing of Discarded Amulets</blockquote><strong>References & Bibliography</strong> [45 pages]<br />
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The “Shadow Tree Series” comprises a unique collection of Western Esoteric studies and practices which I have actuated and taught over a period of forty years. I commenced my Kabbalistic odyssey in the early 1970’s studying the doctrines of Lurianic Kabbalah, and later investigated the fascinating traditions of Practical Kabbalah. I also incorporated the teachings of my late mentor, the celebrated English Kabbalist William G. Gray, in my personal kabbalistic/magical worldview.<br />
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Having introduced a “nuts-and-bolts” insight into the inner workings of Ceremonial Magic and Practical Kabbalah in “<i>The Book of Self Creation</i>” and “<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>,” I present further magical resources in “<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>.”<br />
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In conclusion I should mention again that since I addressed in the current tome several hundred Hebrew amulets and related magical objects, i.e. Sigils, Magic Squares, Magical Alphabets, etc., I again elected to include original Hebrew texts with easily accessible accompanying transliterations and translations. As you might expect, "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>" comprises nearly 300 images of amulets and related illustrations, the largest majority of which were again from primary resources in the domain of "Practical Kabbalah," <br />
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You can access "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>" and other publications of the Sangreal Sodality Press directly at:<br />
<blockquote>http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/sangrealsodalitypress</blockquote>Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-51529324902555234122014-01-16T22:44:00.000+02:002014-04-17T23:05:23.648+02:00Fiendish Forces in Hebrew Amulets - Part 2There are many references to all manner of demonic forces in Hebrew amulets, usually in terms of kin type and, except for a very few like the demoness <i>Lilit</i>, are rarely named individually. Even when it comes to referencing a single “malevolent spirit,” it is often in the third person. For example, mention is made of the collective <i>Ruchin b’ishin</i> or to <i>Ruchot ra’ot</i>, all of which have been translated “evil spirits” (some say “ghosts”), and they are considered to be of both the feminine and masculine kind [<strong>Montgomery, J.A.:</strong> <i>Aramaic Incantation Texts from Nippur</i>, University Museum, Philadelphia 1913.]. We also find references to a singular <i>Ruach ra’ah</i> (“evil spirit”), i.e. one from amongst the “<i>Ruchin</i>” or “<i>Ruchot ra’ot</i>.”<br />
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As it is, Hebrew amulets include references to several classes from amongst the demonic legions. Amongst those mentioned in <i>Kameot</i> listed in my "<em>The Book of Seals & Amulets</em>," are the <i>Mazikim</i> or <i>Mazikin</i>, i.e. injurers (harmful spirits), who have been described “imps.” It has been claimed that the <i>mazikim</i> are the offspring of Adam and Eve having had liaisons with demonic entities. It is said they “and their demonic consorts account for the proliferation of demons”[<strong>Schwartz, H., Loebel-Fried, Ginsburg, E.K.:</strong> <i><span lang="EN">Tree of Souls: The Mythology of Judaism</span></i><span lang="EN-GB">, Oxford University Press Inc., New York 2004.</span>]. However, there appears to be some confusion as far as these claims are concerned. Elsewhere it is indicated that the <i>mazikim</i>, “beings who injure (<i>nezek</i>)” [<strong>Witton Davies, T.:</strong> <i>"Magic" Back and White, Charms and Counter Charms, Divination and Demonology among the Hindus, Hebrews, Arabs and Egyptians</i>, de Laurence, Scott & Co., Chicago 1910], are comprised of a number of demonic classes.<br />
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Past research referenced two main factions amongst the <i>mazikim</i>, the first is comprised of “fallen angels who are wholly supernatural,” and the second of beings who are “half supernatural and half human.” Amongst the latter group there are two demonic classes which are of interest to us, since they are often referred to in protection amulets. First there is the <i>Lilin</i> faction of demons, which were “begotten of Adam on the one side, and Lilith and other female spirits on the other,” rather than from Eve, the primordial human mother, and we are told that “Lilith reigns over these as queen” [<strong>Witton Davies</strong>].<br />
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Next there are the <i>Shedim</i> or <i>Shedin</i>, the most cited of the demonic types listed in Hebrew amulets. We find references in the Hebrew Bible to these “demonic fiends,” i.e. in <i>Deuteronomy 32:17</i> in which we are told regarding those who forsook the good ways of the Almighty One, "they sacrificed unto demons [<em>Shedim</em>]”). This accusation is emphasised and expanded upon in <i>Psalm 106:37</i> where we read “Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto demons [<em>Shedim</em>]”).<br />
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The <i>Shedim</i> are said to be of the mischievous or “hobgoblin type” [<strong>Montgomery</strong>] and we are informed that their king, Ashmedai, “resembles the merry if also mischief-making hobgoblins of fairy tales” [<strong>Witton Davies</strong>]. It is said the <i>Shedim</i> were born from the sexual relations of two angels, i.e. <i>Aza</i> and <em>Azael</em>, with <i>Na’amah</i>, the daughter of <i>Lamech</i> who was the great-great grandson of the Biblical Enoch. All of this supposedly happened prior to the biblical “great flood” [<strong>Rappoport, A.S.:</strong> <i>Myth and Legend of Ancient Israel</i>, Vol. 1, The Gresham Publishing Company Ltd., London 1927]. However, the <i>Shedim</i> may “assume any shape and form they like,” and are “able to see without being seen themselves” [<b>Thompson, R.C.:</b> <i>Semitic Magic: Its Origins and Development</i>, Luzac & Co., London 1909]. If you should find this disconcerting, especially as far as your personal safety against these malevolent forces is concerned, it is worth noting that all demonic forces are said to be subordinate to the four great Archangels of the Divine Throne, i.e. <i>Micha’el</i>, <i>Gavri’el</i>, <i>Rafa’el</i> and <i>Ori’el</i>. In this regard, the 14th century Kabbalist Menachem ben Meir Tziyoni tells us “And know, that each party (of demons) is (subordinated) to certain archons and divine angels, as it is known among men of understanding” [<strong>Tziyoni, M. ben M.:</strong> unpublished passage in <i>Sefer Tziyoni</i> translated in <strong>Huss, B.:</strong> <em>Demonology and Magic</em>, <i>Kabbalah: Journal for the Study of Jewish Mystical Texts 10</i>, 2004].Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-58455649315214079432014-01-09T04:13:00.000+02:002014-01-14T00:25:17.432+02:00Fiendish Forces in Hebrew Amulets - Part 1Whilst the patronage of higher spiritual forces are enlisted in Hebrew amulets by means of their names, malevolent powers are equally identified in <i>Kameot</i> in order to, as it were, bind them and weaken their impact on the living. Restraining demonic entities is particularly necessary, since it is said that "if the eye had the power to see them, no creature could endure the demons." Furthermore, "they are more numerous than we are and they surround us like the ridge round a field," and it is claimed "Every one among us has a thousand on his left hand and ten thousand on his right hand." [<i>Talmud Bavli, Berachot 6a</i>]<br />
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It is said demonic entities are "living souls without bodies," [<b>Thompson, R.C.:</b> <i>Semitic Magic: Its Origins and Development</i>, Luzac & Co., London 1909] and it is believed they resemble humans in three ways, "they eat and drink like human beings; they propagate like human beings; and they die like human beings" [<i>Talmud Bavli Chagigah 16a</i>]. We are informed that "the injury of the human race in every possible way was believed to be the chief delight of evil spirits," [<b>Cassels, W.R.:</b> <i>Supernatural Religion: An Inquiry into the Reality of Divine Revelation</i> Vol. 1, Longmans Green & Co., London 1874] which is another "quality" they share with so many of the human race who "delight" in doing just that to their fellow human kind. The demoness <i>Lilit</i> certainly ranks amongst the most dangerous of those spirit forces who take pleasure in killing humans.<br />
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The saga surrounding the person and career of this demonic dame reads like a popular soap opera. She "was a failure as Adam’s intended wife, became the paramour of lascivious spirits, rose to be the bride of Samael the demon King, ruled as the Queen of Zemargad and Sheba, and finally ended up as the consort of God himself." [<b>Patai, R.:</b> <i>The Hebrew Goddess</i>, Third enlarged edition, Wayne State University Press, Detroit 1990] Her incredible career in evil and depravity spanning more than four millennia, rivals that of any other career criminal, whether human or demonic. At least there is some protection against the killer instincts of this lady. We are told she informed the Propher Elijah "whenever I shall see or hear any of my names I shall straightway flee.... And whenever my names shall be mentioned I shall have no power to do evil or to injure." [<b>Hanauer, J.E.:</b> <i>Folk-Lore of the Holy Land: Moslem, Christian and Jewish</i>, Duckworth & Co., London 1907]<br />
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It would seem the history of <i>Lilit</i> can be traced back to the <i>Lillu</i>, who "was one of four demons belonging to a vampire or incubi-succubae class" mentioned in a Sumerian King list. [<b>Patai, R.:</b> <i>The Hebrew Goddess</i>] Thus it has been suggested that the traditions regarding "<i>Lilit</i>" were derived by Jews from Sumerian and Gnostic lore, and it is further alleged that much of Sumerian folklore was absorbed into Judaism by the patriarch Abraham, and the fact that he hailed from Chaldean Ur was cited in support of this claim.<br />
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There is certainly no evidence that Abraham received the <i>Lilit</i> mythology from the Sumerians, or that it was from thence that it found its way into kabbalistic lore. There is also no reference to <i>Lilit</i> in the Pentateuch, and all evidence points to it having been extracted from Babylonian-Assyrian sources. After all, Jews lived in exile in Babylonia for centuries, and even after the "return" and Nehemiah’s rebuilding of the Temple and the walls of Jerusalem, many preferred to remain in the settled comfort of Babylonia, where the great Jewish academies continued to thrive well into the early centuries of the common era.<br />
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We know for certain that <i>Lilit</i> is part of Babylonian demonology, and that there are some Sumerian antecedents. In fact, <i>Lilit</i> was one of a demonic couple, <i>Lilu</i> the male and <i>Lilitu</i> the female, both of which were associated with a whole set of "harmful spirits" called <i>mazikim</i>. Now, whilst <i>Lilit</i> in "Jewish lore" is particularly associated with endangering the life of the newly born infant, the Babylonian equivalents of this spirit fulfilled various nefarious functions. For example, there is an incantation in an Assyrian ritual text against an <i>Ardat-Lili</i> who preys on males. Others would strangle infants and threaten pregnant women.<br />
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There is only one reference to <i>Lilit</i> in the Bible (<i>Isaiah</i> <i>34:14</i>), hence it is understood that most of what we know of the early Jewish traditions regarding <i>Lilit</i>, derives mainly from the Babylonian <em>Talmud</em>. Amongst the early "Jewish" references to <i>Lilit</i> we should include one from the Qumran community (Dead Sea Scrolls), whilst aspects of this tradition were also absorbed into "<i>The Testament of Solomon</i>," a third century Greek work. More details on the <i>Lilit</i> as the first wife of Adam were also included in the "<i>Alphabet of Ben Sira</i>."<br />
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Now, just because <i>Lilit</i> is called the "mother of demons," does not mean that she does not have enemies amongst her own kind. In this regard, the demoness <i>Machalat</i>, the "Dancer," and her daughter <i>Agrat bat Machalat</i>, the latter being the consort of <i>Ashmodai</i> and queen of the demons, are said to live "in strife with Lilith." The hostility of these female demons towards <i>Lilit</i> is no simple matter. <i>Agrat bat Machalat</i> is the consort of <i>Ashmodai</i> and she ranks "queen of the demons." Furthermore, she is said to have "a retinue of one hundred and eighty thousand evil spirits." [<b>Rappoport, A.S.:</b> <i>The Folklore of the Jews</i>, The Soncino Press, London 1937]<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>(More to follow)</b></div>Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-17066504470375289262013-12-30T20:21:00.000+02:002014-01-06T00:06:15.358+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s400/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7DmNrFXIB78/UsGncIgXbMI/AAAAAAAAEHA/86If08oi2Tc/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Kof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7DmNrFXIB78/UsGncIgXbMI/AAAAAAAAEHA/86If08oi2Tc/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Kof.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Kof</i>) It is said the magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2QDUPx-iv9M/UsGnrIJyxCI/AAAAAAAAEHI/SN-p1q4tWWk/s1600/Kof.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2QDUPx-iv9M/UsGnrIJyxCI/AAAAAAAAEHI/SN-p1q4tWWk/s320/Kof.jpg" /></a> (<i>Kof</i>) represents a tree, and the <i>gematria</i> of this Hebrew letter is one hundred. Regarding the latter we are reminded that Abraham fathered Isaac at the ripe old age of 100, and as far as the “tree” symbol of the magical glyph is concerned, we are informed that this refers to the thicket (tree) in which a ram was caught, and which was substituted as sacrifice in the place of his son. We are also told that the main portion of the magical glyph in question portrays a <i>shofar</i> (ram’s horn), whilst the two side extensions refer to the two days when the <i>shofar</i> is sounded during <i>Rosh Hashanah</i> (New Year), for all to hear its <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QuTbyY01hl8/UsGn3RqSMkI/AAAAAAAAEHQ/ETHnA3NONIc/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Kof_Kol.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QuTbyY01hl8/UsGn3RqSMkI/AAAAAAAAEHQ/ETHnA3NONIc/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Kof_Kol.jpg" /></a> (<i>Kol</i>—“voice”).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-xen7qkmqA/UsGoLAB744I/AAAAAAAAEHY/PQb6aY9YogA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-xen7qkmqA/UsGoLAB744I/AAAAAAAAEHY/PQb6aY9YogA/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Resh</i>) The magical image for the letter <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NH1X8ZAtRME/UsGrxCRSXqI/AAAAAAAAEHk/AbGWF3cQRH8/s1600/Resh.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NH1X8ZAtRME/UsGrxCRSXqI/AAAAAAAAEHk/AbGWF3cQRH8/s320/Resh.jpg" /></a> (<i>Resh</i>) is said to represent a boat with a mast. In this regard, we encounter the only magical instruction listed in the dissertation on the magical “<i>Alpha Beta shel Metatron</i>.” We are told that in summer <i>Rahav</i> (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3AyqXTOJ9F8/UsG2DhwMZ-I/AAAAAAAAEIE/3Wm0Wll0pyU/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Rachav.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3AyqXTOJ9F8/UsG2DhwMZ-I/AAAAAAAAEIE/3Wm0Wll0pyU/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Rachav.jpg" /></a>), who is the angel of the sea, would allow foul smells to surface the waters — methane perhaps! Seeping into boats this would kill all and sundry on them. However, we are instructed that invoking the Divine Name <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZTTqwZ_MgU/UsGsCEHTFSI/AAAAAAAAEHs/5O70NVwHcG0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Adiriron.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZTTqwZ_MgU/UsGsCEHTFSI/AAAAAAAAEHs/5O70NVwHcG0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Adiriron.jpg" /></a> (<i>Adiriron</i>) would forthwith dispel the nasty odour. We are also informed that invocation of this Divine Name calms the violent storms of winter.<br />
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Regarding the Divine Name <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZTTqwZ_MgU/UsGsCEHTFSI/AAAAAAAAEHs/5O70NVwHcG0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Adiriron.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZTTqwZ_MgU/UsGsCEHTFSI/AAAAAAAAEHs/5O70NVwHcG0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Adiriron.jpg" /></a> (<i>Adiriron</i>), I noted in "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>" that this is an ancient Divine Name the meaning of which is said to be “The Mighty One sings,” and that this Divine Name is called “Name of Joy” or “Name of glad song” (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q981JBtRUuY/UsG2Sax5mnI/AAAAAAAAEIM/mkouKTn_hsQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Rinah.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q981JBtRUuY/UsG2Sax5mnI/AAAAAAAAEIM/mkouKTn_hsQ/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Rinah.jpg" /></a>—<i>rinah</i>). <em>Adiriron</em> is associated with the word <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZ3bedXwAF4/UsGsdJhoyuI/AAAAAAAAEH0/mvVNbt38Btc/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Adir.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lZ3bedXwAF4/UsGsdJhoyuI/AAAAAAAAEH0/mvVNbt38Btc/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_Adir.jpg" /></a> (<i>adir</i>—“mighty”).<br />
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I also noted that the Name “<i>Adiriron</i> is utilised both in Hebrew amulets and magical incantations, and is considered particularly efficacious as a protection against demonic forces.” Hence we are informed that “whosoever builds a new house and yard, lest he come to any bodily harm he must write the great name <i>Adiriron Adiron</i> (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7bHGwi6Hs4/UsG2u2UhPcI/AAAAAAAAEIc/b0Ep-y3SBrg/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_AdirironAdiron.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a7bHGwi6Hs4/UsG2u2UhPcI/AAAAAAAAEIc/b0Ep-y3SBrg/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Resh_AdirironAdiron.jpg" /></a>) on deerskin parchment and place it on the door of each and every room. And it is best to write this on a Sunday, Thursday or a Friday. And he must drill a hole and place the same in the doorway both from above and from the side.”<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQL8zmeyuQI/UsG2-pHQ2ZI/AAAAAAAAEIk/_EIyWVVYkXk/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Shin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zQL8zmeyuQI/UsG2-pHQ2ZI/AAAAAAAAEIk/_EIyWVVYkXk/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Shin.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Shin</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms9lyziCaGw/UsG3JE0k0WI/AAAAAAAAEIs/4JKf0B1Oqww/s1600/Shin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms9lyziCaGw/UsG3JE0k0WI/AAAAAAAAEIs/4JKf0B1Oqww/s320/Shin.jpg" /></a> (<i>Shin</i>) is said to indicate a very deep wellspring gushing forth an abundance of water which spills over its edges. In this regard, there is the saga of King David digging pits on the side of the Holy Altar, and in the process unleashing subterranean waters which were surfacing and which might inundate the world. We are told that the King wrote the Divine name on a shard which he cast into the depths in order to halt the threat and seal the opening of the depths.<br />
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Be that as it may, we are told that the letter Shin is the initial of the Divine Name <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gQswlEhLpzs/UsG3XeD79tI/AAAAAAAAEI0/69EC2e6T5aw/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Shin_Shadai.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gQswlEhLpzs/UsG3XeD79tI/AAAAAAAAEI0/69EC2e6T5aw/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Shin_Shadai.jpg" /></a> (<i>Shadai</i>), and that the five endings of the magical glyph representing this letter, refer to the five cubicles of the <i>Tefilin</i> (phylacteries). Regarding the latter we are reminded that there are four in the phylactery tied to the forehead, and only one in the phylactery tied to the left forearm.<br />
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(<i>Tav</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwkpHi24XMY/UsG34mRvq3I/AAAAAAAAEJE/6-x4vdU6gBY/s1600/Tav.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwkpHi24XMY/UsG34mRvq3I/AAAAAAAAEJE/6-x4vdU6gBY/s320/Tav.jpg" /></a> (<i>Tav</i>) comprises three vertical bars crossing a horizontal line, and there are altogether eight endings in the glyph. In this regard we are informed that the two outer verticle lines represent the two handles of a <i>Torah</i> scroll, and the centre line the reader. At the conclusion of perusing its contents, the scroll is wound and enclosed in a beautiful mantle-cover. The latter is symbolized by the horizontal bar in the current magical glyph.<br />
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We are also instructed that the three vertical lines represent the threefold division of the <i>Tanach</i> (Sacred Scriptures): <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NwOM4cul_dE/UsG4Io0VkUI/AAAAAAAAEJM/YGfgRf_2eg8/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Torah.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NwOM4cul_dE/UsG4Io0VkUI/AAAAAAAAEJM/YGfgRf_2eg8/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Torah.jpg" /></a> (<i>Torah</i>—Pentateuch), <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QuK3wfxcr7E/UsG4TGJGjQI/AAAAAAAAEJU/4LQ6nY3Vvz4/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Neviim.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QuK3wfxcr7E/UsG4TGJGjQI/AAAAAAAAEJU/4LQ6nY3Vvz4/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Neviim.jpg" /></a> (<i>N’vi’im</i>—Prophets) and <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FN9ihcvx0Ek/UsG4aww9RUI/AAAAAAAAEJc/tLcejJUb7jk/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Ketuvim.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FN9ihcvx0Ek/UsG4aww9RUI/AAAAAAAAEJc/tLcejJUb7jk/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Ketuvim.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ketuvim</i>—Writings). The “Prophets” section of the Hebrew Bible comprises eight books, which is said to be symbolized in the eight endings of the magical glyph of the letter <i>Tet</i>. We are informed that the Divine One autographs his name with this Hebrew letter, since it stands for <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cWnxfyxF_k8/UsG4k4F0YcI/AAAAAAAAEJk/sOs_OfIUiwA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Emet.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cWnxfyxF_k8/UsG4k4F0YcI/AAAAAAAAEJk/sOs_OfIUiwA/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tav_Emet.jpg" /></a> (<i>Emet</i>—“Truth”).Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-54142635910195717952013-12-28T15:26:00.000+02:002014-01-06T00:01:55.944+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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(<i>Ayin</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OGGeolEiqs/Ur7G-O-03MI/AAAAAAAAEEw/DimDYs-HZ6E/s1600/Ayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OGGeolEiqs/Ur7G-O-03MI/AAAAAAAAEEw/DimDYs-HZ6E/s320/Ayin.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ayin</i>) is said to comprise two parallel horizontal bars. These, we are told, pertains to Moses and Aaron who confronted the Egyptian sorcerers whose magical activities were illusions meant to deceive the eye (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iauV7WXX_hQ/Ur7HGvEjZRI/AAAAAAAAEE4/O7v9PDGgXQo/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Ayin_Ayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iauV7WXX_hQ/Ur7HGvEjZRI/AAAAAAAAEE4/O7v9PDGgXQo/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Ayin_Ayin.jpg" /></a>—<i>Ayin</i>). In this regard, we are told (<i>Exodus 7:12</i>):<br />
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<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
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<i>va-yashlichu ish matechu va-yih’yu l’taninim va-yivla mateh Aharon et matotam</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
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For they cast down every man his rod, and they became serpents; but Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods.</blockquote>
We are informed that in the Hebrew alphabet the letter order <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T3MHYUpo2ZQ/Ur7HWrxSwjI/AAAAAAAAEFA/i2kD6hDdcBU/s1600/Nun.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T3MHYUpo2ZQ/Ur7HWrxSwjI/AAAAAAAAEFA/i2kD6hDdcBU/s320/Nun.jpg" /></a> (<i>Nun</i>), <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TKpaQMgWWRE/Ur7INTPR-MI/AAAAAAAAEFM/51R10Wm5LJE/s1600/Samech.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TKpaQMgWWRE/Ur7INTPR-MI/AAAAAAAAEFM/51R10Wm5LJE/s320/Samech.jpg" /></a> (<i>Samech</i>), <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OGGeolEiqs/Ur7G-O-03MI/AAAAAAAAEEw/DimDYs-HZ6E/s1600/Ayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OGGeolEiqs/Ur7G-O-03MI/AAAAAAAAEEw/DimDYs-HZ6E/s320/Ayin.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ayin</i>) reminds us of this miracle (<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZloaJQ4JBj0/Ur7IvXyoJGI/AAAAAAAAEFU/D324rTunhz4/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Ayin_Nes.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZloaJQ4JBj0/Ur7IvXyoJGI/AAAAAAAAEFU/D324rTunhz4/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Ayin_Nes.jpg" /></a>—<i>Nes</i>), by means of which the trickery worked on the eye (<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OGGeolEiqs/Ur7G-O-03MI/AAAAAAAAEEw/DimDYs-HZ6E/s1600/Ayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OGGeolEiqs/Ur7G-O-03MI/AAAAAAAAEEw/DimDYs-HZ6E/s320/Ayin.jpg" /></a>—<i>Ayin</i>) is exposed.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iiwxs13xCns/Ur7MCfkhWCI/AAAAAAAAEGI/AnHtxyRBCDw/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Peh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iiwxs13xCns/Ur7MCfkhWCI/AAAAAAAAEGI/AnHtxyRBCDw/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Peh.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Peh</i>) We are told the magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Rsq5ogohrY/Ur7M0Zs_gWI/AAAAAAAAEGY/7wtguboBqx0/s1600/Peh.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Rsq5ogohrY/Ur7M0Zs_gWI/AAAAAAAAEGY/7wtguboBqx0/s200/Peh.jpg" /></a> (<i>Peh</i>) represents an open bucket, representing something like a divine cornucopia by means of which the Eternal One provides (<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uHjRarRxnLk/Ur7McN_Q_KI/AAAAAAAAEGQ/k41czBQxlqM/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Peh_Pirnes.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uHjRarRxnLk/Ur7McN_Q_KI/AAAAAAAAEGQ/k41czBQxlqM/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Peh_Pirnes.jpg" /></a>—<i>Pirnes</i>) an infinite flow of abundance to the whole of manifestation, like the miracle foodstuffs, i.e. the daily manna, quails, and a wellspring afforded to the Israelites during their long sojourn in the desert. In fact, these miraculous substances are said to be represented by the three endings of the magical glyph.<br />
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As it is, the word <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fP63HUqjWBI/Ur7NNgVfIHI/AAAAAAAAEGg/J0gKiwgH-zQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Peh_Peh.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fP63HUqjWBI/Ur7NNgVfIHI/AAAAAAAAEGg/J0gKiwgH-zQ/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Peh_Peh.jpg" /></a> (<i>Peh</i>), the name of the letter in question, means a “mouth,” the organ of eating but also of speaking. Regarding the latter ability, we are informed that a real savant is a wellspring of wisdom, whose <i>Torah</i> elucidations motivate a descent of the <i>Shechinah</i>, i.e. the Divine Presence and “face” of the Almighty to descend on his or her person. This is because a Spirit Messenger (angel) affords the wise one endless insights.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9cw5rSCVuI/Ur7NjEc4n4I/AAAAAAAAEGo/bG31nOeiSAs/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tzadi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9cw5rSCVuI/Ur7NjEc4n4I/AAAAAAAAEGo/bG31nOeiSAs/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tzadi.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Tzadi</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMTKUZ9NIOw/Ur7N2U_uwjI/AAAAAAAAEGw/kW7pTEwJs70/s1600/Tzadi.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wMTKUZ9NIOw/Ur7N2U_uwjI/AAAAAAAAEGw/kW7pTEwJs70/s320/Tzadi.jpg" /></a> (<i>Tzadi</i>) is said to be a kind of walled stronghold which could be accessed via a side entrance (<i>Petach</i>—“opening”). In this regard a <i>Tzadik</i>, i.e. a righteous individual, is said to constantly alternating between two entrances, i.e. the one to the synagogue and the other to the “House of Study.” Considering some of the sentiments I expressed earlier, that “<i>Torah</i> Study” means “living the law of life,” I “naturally” think it quite “unnatural” and even “ungodly” to cut oneself off from the natural world. After all, the very beauty which we see in this world is in fact God, and acknowledging beauty is a most sacred act.<br />
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In this regard, we are told that “when you desire to eat or drink, or to fulfill other worldly desires, and you focus your awareness on the love of God, then you elevate that physical desire to spiritual desire. Thereby you draw out the holy spark that dwells within. You bring forth holy sparks from the material world. There is no path greater than this. For wherever you go and whatever you do—even mundane activities—you serve God.” [<b>Levi Yitzhak of Berdichev</b> in <b>Buber, M.:</b> <i>Tales of the Hasidim: The Early Masters</i>, Thames and Hudson, London 1956] We are further reminded to “use the things of the world to recognize No-thing. By this I mean, approach everyday life as an ongoing opportunity for raising the sparks. Take a micro-moment for establishing a meditative attitude, whether that moment be painful or joyous or neutral. Practice <i>hitbodedut</i> (meditation/all-one-ness) everywhere, at all times. When tempted away from righteousness by idleness, anger, or greed, let yourself listen to the sounds of that moment until you are all ear, nothing but listening. Wrap yourself in listening until even the still, small voice of the moment has vanished and there is No-thing there at all.” [<b>Besserman, P.:</b> <i>The Shambhala Guide to Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism</i>, Shambhala, Berkeley, 1997]<br />
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<strong>(More to follow)</strong></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-66735313095015021222013-12-23T20:04:00.000+02:002014-01-05T23:56:46.064+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s400/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gyR-M5tvRTs/UrhtAp3QYPI/AAAAAAAAEA0/-PxImmakUu0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Lamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gyR-M5tvRTs/UrhtAp3QYPI/AAAAAAAAEA0/-PxImmakUu0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Lamed.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Lamed</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EcKVXylxgI/UrhtLgqPnVI/AAAAAAAAEA8/gfkIxuGBeWc/s1600/Lamed.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EcKVXylxgI/UrhtLgqPnVI/AAAAAAAAEA8/gfkIxuGBeWc/s320/Lamed.jpg" /></a> (<i>Lamed</i>) is said to represent the crown of a king. In this regard, we are informed that those who are studying (<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7PutZRV33JU/UrhtWHR2jBI/AAAAAAAAEBE/XjDZyy0M6hM/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Lamed_Lamed.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7PutZRV33JU/UrhtWHR2jBI/AAAAAAAAEBE/XjDZyy0M6hM/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Lamed_Lamed.jpg" /></a>—<i>Lamed</i>) <i>Torah</i>, and who are controlling their darker passions, so to speak, will be granted an exalted status befitting a king as well as a crown in the world to come, similarly to the biblical Joseph who, by controlling his emotional self, was granted rulership and a crown by the Pharaoh of Egypt.<br />
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We are reminded that the letter <i>Lamed</i> is located in the Hebrew alphabet between <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-95-QiQEU65A/UrhtjPvYTgI/AAAAAAAAEBM/_nion9w8aeU/s1600/Kaf.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-95-QiQEU65A/UrhtjPvYTgI/AAAAAAAAEBM/_nion9w8aeU/s320/Kaf.jpg" /></a> (<i>Kaf</i>) and <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYOPTQRIugA/UrhtwcYboUI/AAAAAAAAEBU/qr7VBoJkMTw/s1600/Mem.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYOPTQRIugA/UrhtwcYboUI/AAAAAAAAEBU/qr7VBoJkMTw/s320/Mem.jpg" /></a> (<i>Mem</i>). When read in reverse, the combination spells <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Gi6xIgx1vg/Urht62YHREI/AAAAAAAAEBc/6PBosVlXmnw/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Lamed_Melech.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Gi6xIgx1vg/Urht62YHREI/AAAAAAAAEBc/6PBosVlXmnw/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Lamed_Melech.jpg" /></a> (<i>Melech</i>—King).<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JiGCJZecrLg/UrhuEXQFn0I/AAAAAAAAEBk/kaB_WTYOhKU/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Mem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JiGCJZecrLg/UrhuEXQFn0I/AAAAAAAAEBk/kaB_WTYOhKU/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Mem.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Mem</i>) We are told that the magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MztrDEFf-jo/UrhuQeAanTI/AAAAAAAAEBs/-B6wj0CG5Gs/s1600/Mem.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MztrDEFf-jo/UrhuQeAanTI/AAAAAAAAEBs/-B6wj0CG5Gs/s320/Mem.jpg" /></a> (<i>Mem</i>) represents an empty womb. We are also reminded that the numerical value of this letter is forty since the womb remains empty after conception for around forty days when the foetus starts to take on a definite shape. We are further informed that this magical glyph indicates an empty stomach, referring to Moses having maintained a fast for forty days during the period he remained in the celestial realms during his reception of the <i>Torah</i>.<br />
On the other hand, the meaning of the letter <i>Mem</i> is “water” (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKTmIsJWje0/UrhubIXJzFI/AAAAAAAAEB0/8NXXKOkQZC0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Mem_Mayim.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKTmIsJWje0/UrhubIXJzFI/AAAAAAAAEB0/8NXXKOkQZC0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Mem_Mayim.jpg" /></a>—<i>Mayim</i>), and it is said that the current magical glyph symbolizes a pool which requires the exact amount of forty “<i>seahs</i>” (measures) to qualify as a <i>Mikveh</i> (ritual bath).<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HS9H-LiIsVA/Urhuus9RjsI/AAAAAAAAEB8/8rbdfC7wwvU/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Nun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HS9H-LiIsVA/Urhuus9RjsI/AAAAAAAAEB8/8rbdfC7wwvU/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Nun.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Nun</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dua6t4wDSKI/UrhvFB2_VnI/AAAAAAAAECE/6FaPYUt8His/s1600/Nun.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dua6t4wDSKI/UrhvFB2_VnI/AAAAAAAAECE/6FaPYUt8His/s320/Nun.jpg" /></a> (<i>Nun</i>) is said to symbolize a shield. In this regard, we are enjoined <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T5n5rAwrKsk/UrhvptpeQOI/AAAAAAAAECU/mhpj2_KOZyA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Jeremiah9_22.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T5n5rAwrKsk/UrhvptpeQOI/AAAAAAAAECU/mhpj2_KOZyA/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Jeremiah9_22.jpg" /></a> (<i>yit’halel ha-gibor big’vurato</i>—“Let not the mighty man glory in his might”) (<i>Jeremiah 9:22</i> [<i>23</i>]), and that he should rather trust in the One who is Awesome (<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SmSIVeb1DO4/Urhvz624dNI/AAAAAAAAECc/sMwrnsG3xro/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Nun_Nora.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SmSIVeb1DO4/Urhvz624dNI/AAAAAAAAECc/sMwrnsG3xro/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Nun_Nora.jpg" /></a>—<i>Nora</i>), Almighty God.<br />
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In the current instance the magical glyph is said to be a “shield” with three endings, i.e. two on top and one below. “shield.” The upper two endings are said to refer respectively to two biblical figures, i.e. the Patriarch Abraham and King David, who were granted Divine protection. In this regard, the Eternal One told our father Abraham <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVy78krnNIA/UrhwKbUNEWI/AAAAAAAAECk/oiojYD7m7Ok/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Genesis15_1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVy78krnNIA/UrhwKbUNEWI/AAAAAAAAECk/oiojYD7m7Ok/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Genesis15_1.jpg" /></a> (<i>Anochi magen lach</i>—“I am thy shield”) (<i>Genesis 15:1</i>), and King David exclaimed <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5pKIWZwlXw/UrhwhppWTYI/AAAAAAAAECs/8NdfPa5RzoE/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm18_2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5pKIWZwlXw/UrhwhppWTYI/AAAAAAAAECs/8NdfPa5RzoE/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm18_2.jpg" /></a> (<i>magini v’keren yish’i</i>—“my shield and my horn of salvation”) (<i>Psalm 18:2</i> [<i>3</i>]).<br />
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On the other hand, we are informed the three endings of the current magical glyph refer to the first three letters of the Ineffable Name, i.e. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn8d4i71T8s/UrhwvdjHavI/AAAAAAAAEC0/3gxdN5GZq8U/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Nun_YHV.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn8d4i71T8s/UrhwvdjHavI/AAAAAAAAEC0/3gxdN5GZq8U/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Nun_YHV.jpg" /></a> (<i>YHV</i>), which were engraved on the impregnable shield of King David conjointly with the opening phrase of <i>Exodus 15:11</i> reading <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B7ypvuMGing/UrhxFowZt9I/AAAAAAAAEC8/02SKIGjTErQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Exodus15_11.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B7ypvuMGing/UrhxFowZt9I/AAAAAAAAEC8/02SKIGjTErQ/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Exodus15_11.jpg" /></a> (<i>Mi chamocha ba’elim YHVH</i>—“Who is like unto Thee <i>YHVH</i> among the mighty?”). The initial letters of the four words comprising this phrase form the acronym <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXbeOBf_l9U/UrhxU62FTeI/AAAAAAAAEDE/xUzxv68Hydk/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Nun_Makabi.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXbeOBf_l9U/UrhxU62FTeI/AAAAAAAAEDE/xUzxv68Hydk/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Nun_Makabi.jpg" /></a> (<i>Makabi</i>). In this regard, we are told that the last recipient of King David’s shield was the great Judas Maccabeus (<i>Yehudah ha-Makabi</i>).<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pEaC5QeM9Q/Urh4PTzKpgI/AAAAAAAAEDc/rbzTie44W5s/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Samech.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_pEaC5QeM9Q/Urh4PTzKpgI/AAAAAAAAEDc/rbzTie44W5s/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Samech.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Samech</i>) The letter combination <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jvQYdq10j5M/Urh4rasO7gI/AAAAAAAAEDk/VQyErKtVqS0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Samech_Samech.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jvQYdq10j5M/Urh4rasO7gI/AAAAAAAAEDk/VQyErKtVqS0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Samech_Samech.jpg" /></a> (<i>Samech</i>) refers to the concept of sustaining or supporting. This is said to pertain to the statement <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHUw6zOmrDI/Urh45Zt8ADI/AAAAAAAAEDs/ld5TF0WEu0w/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm145_14.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHUw6zOmrDI/Urh45Zt8ADI/AAAAAAAAEDs/ld5TF0WEu0w/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm145_14.jpg" /></a> (<i>Somech YHVH l’chol ha-noflim</i>—“<i>YHVH</i> upholdeth all that fall”) (<i>Psalm 145:14</i>). In this regard, we are told that the magical glyph for the letter <i>Samech</i> represents a tree extending its fresh green leafy branches.<br />
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We are also told that whilst the magical symbol for the letter <i>Samech</i> is upright, it appears to be pierced by an arrow. In this regard, we are informed that Pharaoh pursued the Israelites after they departed Egypt, and that he fired arrows at them, but that the latter were swallowed up by the clouds protecting the Israelites all round (<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VcifkQ2dkak/Urh5VbyIRBI/AAAAAAAAED8/eEdTI1IEgZA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Samech_Saviv.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VcifkQ2dkak/Urh5VbyIRBI/AAAAAAAAED8/eEdTI1IEgZA/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Samech_Saviv.jpg" /></a>—<i>Saviv saviv</i>).<br />
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<strong>(More to follow)</strong></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-51676626868384709212013-12-22T14:39:00.000+02:002014-01-05T23:53:23.260+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s400/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3yK9zHBVsY/UrbE-N8mfAI/AAAAAAAAD-g/_iy9gBarvlM/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3yK9zHBVsY/UrbE-N8mfAI/AAAAAAAAD-g/_iy9gBarvlM/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tet.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Tet</i>) Elucidation is somewhat obscure as far as the symbolical significance of the present magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EIuE6y-ic4s/UrbJ87dTjsI/AAAAAAAAD-0/G1M8u0K91hM/s1600/Tet.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EIuE6y-ic4s/UrbJ87dTjsI/AAAAAAAAD-0/G1M8u0K91hM/s320/Tet.jpg" /></a> (<i>Tet</i>) is concerned. The indication is that it might refer to the toothed edge of a wall. However, we are informed that the shape comprises two hidden letters at the top and three at the bottom. In this regard, it is said the intimation is that the one who walks in humbleness and avoid all contention, will receive a threefold measure of goodness. This pertains to the injunction in <i>Proverbs 17:14</i> reading:<br />
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<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Poter mayim reishit madon v’lifnei hit’gala hariv netosh</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water; therefore leave off contention, before the quarrel break out.</blockquote>
As it is, the letter <i>Tet</i> is the initial of the word <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uhM6-E1bcXo/UrbPx4wz0pI/AAAAAAAAD_w/j1aYf34iT10/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Tet_Tov.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uhM6-E1bcXo/UrbPx4wz0pI/AAAAAAAAD_w/j1aYf34iT10/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Tet_Tov.jpg" /></a> (<i>Tov</i>—"good"). In this regard, we are again sternly admonished that at the end of time the whole world will be judged, and whilst Israel will be granted the blessing of goodness, all who are found to have acted for personal benefit alone, will suffer dire consequences for having sinned in this manner.<br />
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In this regard, I noted previously that "the old idea of a touchy, ill-tempered God raging away at human antics because those ‘offended’ His ideas of propriety, does not ‘go over’ any more," and that "sin," as seen by modern eyes, refers to "wrongful behaviour which damages us by the doing in such a way, that we fail to achieve anything like the ‘Intention of God’ in ourselves for our period of incarnation. Therefore, in ‘falling short’ of the mark by so far, we hinder our progression toward ‘Perfection’ by that much. In sinning against ourselves, we sin against the ‘God-in-us’."<br />
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I also maintained "the old-time concepts of ‘sin’ as intentional offenses against a God, who laid down arbitrary dictates of behaviour, did not stand up very well in the light of experience," and in this regard listed two axioms which I thought were very revelatory. The first is that "a thing is not just because God wills it, but God wills it because it is just," and the second is that "we are punished <i>by</i> our sins, not <i>for</i> them." In fact, human behaviour has become so complex that definite pronouncements no longer apply to a great deal of it. All we can do is accept certain overall codes of conduct as being best to observe amongst us for the sake of general welfare. We might try our best to keep to those codes, i.e. strike an average, and let individuals sort out their own affairs, providing they do not hurt those who are undeserving of it.<br />
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(<i>Yod</i>) We are told the magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz6K2-pqvJ0/UrbPNR3SfNI/AAAAAAAAD_o/RH-RKbDl3dc/s1600/Yod.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz6K2-pqvJ0/UrbPNR3SfNI/AAAAAAAAD_o/RH-RKbDl3dc/s320/Yod.jpg" /></a> (<i>Yod</i>) indicates a small bench with two endings. We are informed that the construct refers to those who humble themselves in the physical world, and who deserve to inherit a lofty throne in the world to come. Regarding the biblical King David we are informed <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOby3Cqu7E4/UrbN6-fbmXI/AAAAAAAAD_U/QKTPkmTVvwM/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_1Samuel17_14.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOby3Cqu7E4/UrbN6-fbmXI/AAAAAAAAD_U/QKTPkmTVvwM/s320/MetatronAlphabet_1Samuel17_14.jpg" /></a> (<i>v’David hu ha-katan</i>—"And David was the youngest [literally ‘smallest’]") (<i>I Samuel 17:14</i>), and that this humbleness of the king earned him the most exalted status in the hereafter, regarding which it is related in <i>Psalm 89:36</i> [<i>37</i>]:<br />
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<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>v’chis’o kashemesh neg’di</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
and his throne as the sun before Me.</blockquote>
We are also reminded that even the Divine One selected from the entire Hebrew alphabet the smallest letter, <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz6K2-pqvJ0/UrbPNR3SfNI/AAAAAAAAD_o/RH-RKbDl3dc/s1600/Yod.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uz6K2-pqvJ0/UrbPNR3SfNI/AAAAAAAAD_o/RH-RKbDl3dc/s320/Yod.jpg" /></a> (<i>Yod</i>), to be the initial of the Ineffable Name, i.e. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iaeLy_aEZXU/UrbQL9BKkJI/AAAAAAAAD_4/vFTTESBu5s4/s1600/Tetragrammaton.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iaeLy_aEZXU/UrbQL9BKkJI/AAAAAAAAD_4/vFTTESBu5s4/s320/Tetragrammaton.JPG" /></a> (<i>YHVH</i>).<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBnthry-VUw/UrbQiejVxhI/AAAAAAAAEAA/ponJD2S_B7Q/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Kaf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBnthry-VUw/UrbQiejVxhI/AAAAAAAAEAA/ponJD2S_B7Q/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Kaf.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Kaf</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bxgyt_2IRPU/UrbQzzDcBpI/AAAAAAAAEAI/8YKuExdA6ig/s1600/Kaf.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bxgyt_2IRPU/UrbQzzDcBpI/AAAAAAAAEAI/8YKuExdA6ig/s320/Kaf.jpg" /></a> (<i>Kaf</i>) is said to stand upright, and, like a monarch, it is wearing a crown. The <i>gematria</i> of <i>Kaf</i> is twenty. In this regard, we are told that there were twenty generations between our primal ancestor Adam and the patriarch Abraham, and that in that period there was no acknowledgment nor sanctification of the Divine Creator, that is until Abraham honoured and recognised the holiness of the Divine One. Hence he established the Covenant of Circumcision, and we are informed that he was granted the knowledge and wisdom of creation (<i>Yetzirah</i>). Tradition has it that the <i>Sefer Yetzirah</i>, the mystico-magical "Book of Creation," derived from Abraham.<br />
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Now, the rest of the jargon on the magical glyph for the letter <i>Kaf</i> pertains to the amount of lashes to be dished out in the afterlife to the wicked for their transgressions. In this regard, I refer to my earlier remarks regarding "sin" and "divine" punishment. Besides, I would think the worst pain of "hell" is, as a theological saying puts it, feeling ones own unworthiness of Heaven, i.e. the realisation that one has excluded oneself deliberately from the Divine Presence. In this regard, I do acknowledge the validity of the Kabbalistic teaching of "<i>Chibut ha-Kever</i>" (<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-olRNF_pdKVY/UrbTQgf_KOI/AAAAAAAAEAU/Nj43lKnDDbY/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Kaf_ChibutHaKever.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-olRNF_pdKVY/UrbTQgf_KOI/AAAAAAAAEAU/Nj43lKnDDbY/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Kaf_ChibutHaKever.jpg" /></a>—"torments of the grave"), but not in any way of it being understood as punishment inflicted upon us by the Divine One in person.<br />
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We are told that "The body begins to decompose soon after it is buried. The effect of watching this must be both frightening and painful. The Talmud teaches us, ‘Worms are as painful to the dead as needles in the flesh of the living, as it is written, "his flesh grieves for him" (<i>Job 14:22</i>).’ Most commentaries write that this refers to the psychological anguish of the soul in seeing its earthly habitation in a state of decay.<br />
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The Kabbalists call this ‘<i>Chibut ha-Kever</i>,’ the punishment of the grave. We are taught that what happens to the body in the grave can be an even worse experience than Gehenom.<br />
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This varies among individuals. The more one is obsessed with one’s body and the material world in general during his lifetime, the more he will be obsessed with it after death. For the person to whom the material was everything, this deterioration of the body is most painful.<br />
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On the other extreme, the person who was immersed in the spiritual may not care very much about the fate of his body at all. He finds himself very much at home in the spiritual realm and might quickly forget about his body entirely.....<br />
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Many of us think of death as a most frightening experience. <i>Tzaddikim</i>, on the other hand, have looked forward to it. Shortly before his death, Rabbi Nachman of Breslav said, ‘I very much want to divest myself of this garment that is my body.’<br />
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If we truly believe and trust in a merciful God, then death has no terror for us.....” [<b>Kaplan, A.:</b> <i>The Aryeh Kaplan Anthology I: Illuminating Expositions on Jewish thought and Practice by a Revered Teacher</i>, National Conference of Synagogue Youth/Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, New York 1991]<br />
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Whilst our bodies are animals, it does not mean that we should be unkind to them. You should no more ill treat your own body, than you would beat any animal to death. Yet people persist in ill treating their bodies, bashing them about and scourge them. This is just sheer cruelty and abuse of a harmless, innocent creature, which does not help their evolution in the least. If we really befriend our bodies, we might well be freed eventually from the confinements of three dimensional existence. Some might think they are occupying a lump of meat, however one should at least try to befriend the “poor brute” and guide it along its path of progress on this planet. We certainly do not have to treat our bodies as gods, but at least we <i>should</i> treat them as friends.<br />
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From what I understand, our actions sometimes result in “<i>klipot</i>” (demonic shards) attaching themselves to ones being, hence a “purification” process is required after death, in order to prepare the “Self” for “life to come” or rebirth. We should always keep in mind that distress leads to release. This is the penalty we have to bear in life and death, if “<i>Chibut ha-Kever</i>” is to believed, and we should realise that there is only compensation in the “Divine Judgment” which we carry within ourselves.<br />
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Now, when it comes to dealing with those mentioned "demonic shards" which may have become attached to ones being, the traditional "beating" of the willow branches during <i>Rosh Hashanah</i> is, as it were, a kind of "sympathetic magic," the action being to drive away and untie oneself from <i>klipot</i>. I have observed this procedure being delineated a "lightening of <i>Chibut ha-Kever</i>." In this regard, it appears the "beating of the willows" to be somewhat akin to the practice of <i>Tashlich</i>, the latter referring to "casting" ones "sins" upon the waters of a running stream. Collectively these actions pertain to breaking the "ties that bind." A similar intention is behind the Kabbalistic <i>Agala’a</i> fire ritual enacted on <i>Erev Rosh Hashanah</i>, which I described in "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>."<br />
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A related and somewhat easier practice in terms of execution, is the very assertive chanting of the "<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>" conjoined with the Name <i>Agala’a</i>, e.g. <i>Agala’a Vehu Yeli Sit Elem Mahash Lelah Agala’a; Agala’a Achah Kahet Hezi Elad Lav Hahah Agala’a; Agala’a Yezel Mebah Hari Hakem Lav Keli Agala’a;</i> etc. However, I am not informed regarding the employment of any amulets one might carry on ones person as a protection against "<i>Chibut ha-Kever</i>." However, I do know that there was (and perhaps still is) a custom in which the Name <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F0KycA1hgis/Urh31tD7FhI/AAAAAAAAEDU/04sUwgGgs5M/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Kaf_KaRo.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F0KycA1hgis/Urh31tD7FhI/AAAAAAAAEDU/04sUwgGgs5M/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Kaf_KaRo.jpg" /></a> (<i>KaRo’</i>), the third three-letter portion of the "Forty-Two Letter Name," was written on a piece of parchment, which was afterwards stuck up the nose of a corpse so as to protect the deceased individual from the afflictions of "<i>Chibut ha-Kever</i>" and from going to "hell." As mentioned in "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>," this practice is somewhat meaningless to me, since "I do not buy into the idea of ‘hell’ <i>per se</i>." However, as indicated, I do believe in a posthumous purification process as far as the "Self" is concerned, and also concede "that there may indeed be parties interested in saving family and friends from a presumed infernal destiny in the hereafter" by sticking amulets up the nostrils of their cadavers!<br />
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<strong>(More to follow)</strong> </div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-85338229890324607362013-12-21T22:44:00.000+02:002014-01-05T23:42:58.778+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDVBzEUcSc8/UrXuQrs0RUI/AAAAAAAAD8k/iVhMoZOqtTA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Vav.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDVBzEUcSc8/UrXuQrs0RUI/AAAAAAAAD8k/iVhMoZOqtTA/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Vav.jpg" /></a> (<i>Vav</i>) The current magical glyph for <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAvg5XzheQ4/UrXwaJluRjI/AAAAAAAAD8w/a1z0EhkUU50/s1600/Vav.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WAvg5XzheQ4/UrXwaJluRjI/AAAAAAAAD8w/a1z0EhkUU50/s320/Vav.jpg" /></a> (<i>Vav</i>) is said to be comprised of two “sticks,” which, with a link from one to the other, indicate steps ascending a lofty mountain. Regarding the latter, we are told the Israelites received the <i>Torah</i> on the sixth day of the month <i>Sivan</i>, six being the numerical value of <i>Vav</i>, and legend further has it that the Holy One held Mount Sinai over their heads and told them to either accept the <i>Torah</i>, or have the mountain burying them. After all, tradition informs us that the Almighty created the world in six days for the sake of the <i>Torah</i> alone.<br />
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Whatever you may believe, or not believe, regarding the biblical saga of creation, the four endings of the magical glyph for the letter <i>Vav</i> are said to refer the vastness of the <i>Torah</i> which transcends that of the four directions of space, i.e. East, West, North and South, as emphasised in <i>Job 11:9</i> reading:<br />
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<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Arukah mei-eretz midah ur’chavah mini yam</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea.</blockquote>
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(<i>Zayin</i>) We are told the magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P2pmCNDkHCY/UrXyMjKbgWI/AAAAAAAAD9M/UWVGd0TAwEI/s1600/Zayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P2pmCNDkHCY/UrXyMjKbgWI/AAAAAAAAD9M/UWVGd0TAwEI/s320/Zayin.jpg" /></a> (<i>Zayin</i>) reflects in some manner a foetus inside the womb, and similarly to a mother consuming foodstuffs in order to feed the unborn, the Divine One supplies the whole of creation, from the smallest to the greatest, with all kind (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fN1Fe0958n0/UrdXjRZeSWI/AAAAAAAAEAk/-yc7MX3w5ww/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Zayin_Zan.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fN1Fe0958n0/UrdXjRZeSWI/AAAAAAAAEAk/-yc7MX3w5ww/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Zayin_Zan.jpg" /></a>—<i>zan</i>) of nourishment.<br />
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Otherwise, the meaning of the name for the current letter is a “weapon” (<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6cONk1uFS8/UrX1T35_u2I/AAAAAAAAD9g/ult31OVDfxo/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Zayin_Zayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F6cONk1uFS8/UrX1T35_u2I/AAAAAAAAD9g/ult31OVDfxo/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Zayin_Zayin.jpg" /></a>—<i>zayin</i>). In this regard, the three upper endings of the current magical glyph are said to protect the lower ending, like a man who is armed (<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlikAO09wIU/UrX1lFhJPoI/AAAAAAAAD9o/uxGk4NzSmRM/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Zayin_Mezuyan.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlikAO09wIU/UrX1lFhJPoI/AAAAAAAAD9o/uxGk4NzSmRM/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Zayin_Mezuyan.jpg" /></a>—<i>m’zuyan</i>). In this regard, studious study of the <em>Torah</em> is said to be a safeguard against all manner of evil, and we are told in <i>Psalm 149:6</i>:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0OCUzuJ8Uzc/UrX2TAv2UCI/AAAAAAAAD9w/iBRtKgG-97I/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm149_6.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0OCUzuJ8Uzc/UrX2TAv2UCI/AAAAAAAAD9w/iBRtKgG-97I/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm149_6.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Rom’mot El big’ronam v’cherev pifiyot b’yadam</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
Let the high praises of <i>El</i> [God] be in their mouth, and a two-edged sword in their hand.</blockquote>
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(<i>Chet</i>) We are given the simplest delineation of the magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1AXITsxujng/UrX5sI0TtdI/AAAAAAAAD-E/TtVcjbY4mqE/s1600/Chet.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1AXITsxujng/UrX5sI0TtdI/AAAAAAAAD-E/TtVcjbY4mqE/s320/Chet.jpg" /></a> (<i>Chet</i>). It is said to comprise surrounding “walls,” these indicating those who are pious, who shut themselves off from the affairs of the world, and who are humble and maintain silence in the face of all humiliation and persecution. We are informed that to be truly worthy, such individuals are to maintain a simple lifestyle in a simple dwelling (“tent”), avoiding all the worldly temptations of the <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ke2fnBddhIM/UrX9LoPnPvI/AAAAAAAAD-Q/umY19dZcWG0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Chet_Chatzuf.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ke2fnBddhIM/UrX9LoPnPvI/AAAAAAAAD-Q/umY19dZcWG0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Chet_Chatzuf.jpg" /></a> (<i>Chatzuf</i>—“insolent”).<br />
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Whilst I have no issue with being humble in ones person, I do not buy any of this stern, pietistic, and overtly patronizing rhetoric employed in the current interpretations of this and other glyphs of the “<i>Alpha Beta shel Metatron</i>.” As far as I am concerned, the words of the unknown author in this instance comprise a lot of fundamentalist presumption and prejudiced innuendo regarding anyone not"officially" deemed “pious.” In this regard I have time and again observed the so called “pious” employing “humility” to intimidate and manipulate all and sundry in their vicinity into eating “humble pie.” Sadly adopting a humble stance is in many instances itself a form of self-aggrandisement, e.g. “there are none as humble [and as intolerant] as <em>we</em> are.”<br />
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This being said, I am a believer in simplicity, i.e. to live sparingly in a chaste manner. However, even the term “chaste” in its purity is a dirty word these days, because people see the unpollutedness and cleanliness of the term to be without any form of happiness, but since when does happiness and joviality make a “chaste” person dirty? The interesting thing here is that most people see the word “chaste” to mean total abstinence from sex and other things called “impurities.” This is totally the wrong idea. Firstly sexuality, eating and drinking are not in themselves steering towards impurities. The “impurities” are in the intentions of the user. Thus, as far as I am concerned, the term “chaste” means purity of intent and not abstinence. There is certainly a measure of restraint in being chaste, but there is nothing wrong in being restrained, since moderation ensures greater appreciation, greater enjoyment, and an understanding that life is not to be taken for granted.<br />
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Furthermore, the “<em>LAW</em>” (<i>Torah</i>) which mainstream and mystical Judaism keep harping on about so much, <i>was</i> and <i>is</i> in fact God. All the scriptures, writings, concepts, and so forth called <i>Torah</i> are only symbols for the Divine One, and intellectual symbols at that. I have no doubt there are many remarkable “mystical mysteries” to be found in the Pentateuch, and, for that matter, in the whole of the Hebrew Bible. However, it is clear to me that <i>God is the “Law of Life,”</i> and all the writings are only human opinions and beliefs about that Power, Energy, Control, or whatever you like to call <em>IT</em>. I am reminded of Edmond Fleg writing regarding the moment when the Divine One gave the <i>Torah</i> to the world, and then granted Moses a vision of distant future teachers. Moses queried “Lord, how is this thing possible? I do not recognise the <i>Torah</i> thou gavest me. Is that new <i>Torah</i> thy <i>Torah</i>?” He received the response, “There are fifty gateways of Understanding: I have opened for thee forty-nine, but the last is closed, for no man, even though he be Moses, can know everything. The <i>Torah</i> thou understandest hath a thousand senses which thou understandest not, and which others in the course of the ages will come to know: for in each century it will speak the language of that century; but what each century will find is already there, and each new <i>Torah</i> will still be my <i>Torah</i>.” [<b>Fleg, E.:</b> <i>The Life of Moses</i>, E.P. Dutton & Co., New York 1928]<br />
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As I see it, “studying Torah” did not necessarily mean pouring over ancient scrolls, but <i>Living the Law of Life</i>. In other words just living according to ones beliefs that God was living through you, and respecting God in the way you lived. However, with typical literalness many spend wasted time with their eyes glued to parchment scrolls in the honest belief they were “studying Torah” as an ideal way of spending a whole lifetime. It is even their idea of “Heaven”!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>(More to follow)</strong></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-76443552850719769122013-12-19T18:01:00.000+02:002014-01-05T23:36:46.904+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s400/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U1_1DPuSNx8/UrMEJdPf4SI/AAAAAAAAD5k/0zBbleiz94c/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Gimel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U1_1DPuSNx8/UrMEJdPf4SI/AAAAAAAAD5k/0zBbleiz94c/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Gimel.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Gimel</i>) We are told the letter <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fAItZ9EDtZk/UrMEbpCwZAI/AAAAAAAAD5s/2jGPhwnDP7g/s1600/Gimel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fAItZ9EDtZk/UrMEbpCwZAI/AAAAAAAAD5s/2jGPhwnDP7g/s200/Gimel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Gimel</i>) refers to <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nIMAC68B8tg/UrMExqrLUyI/AAAAAAAAD50/yoiWzGeu7tA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Gadol.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nIMAC68B8tg/UrMExqrLUyI/AAAAAAAAD50/yoiWzGeu7tA/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Gadol.jpg" /></a> (<i>Gadol</i>— "greatness"), regarding which it is written (<i>Psalm 147:5</i>):<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xqQWIVvPVFQ/UrML-XI9ftI/AAAAAAAAD6E/v4DtTYeM4B0/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm147_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xqQWIVvPVFQ/UrML-XI9ftI/AAAAAAAAD6E/v4DtTYeM4B0/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Psalm147_5.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Gadol adoneinu v’rav koach lit’vonato ein mispar</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding is infinite.</blockquote>
The three-pronged shape of the current magical glyph for the letter <i>Gimel</i> is said to represent a bow and arrow, and we are reminded that a bow comprises three forms, i.e. the bow, the string and the arrow. Hence, the letter <i>Gimel</i> also stands for <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGB8Y1Kipbg/UrMNd5CHIUI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/33A8HDAhIcA/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Gibor.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGB8Y1Kipbg/UrMNd5CHIUI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/33A8HDAhIcA/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Gibor.jpg" /></a> (<i>Gibor</i>—"Mighty"). In this regard the "<i>Pirkei Avot</i>" (4:1) informs us that individuals who are truly "mighty" are those who can control their personal impulses.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfTsLh6myds/UrMNvV1DwGI/AAAAAAAAD6g/clxGej4WGxE/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Dalet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfTsLh6myds/UrMNvV1DwGI/AAAAAAAAD6g/clxGej4WGxE/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Dalet.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Dalet</i>) This magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndLjx_uGxcE/UrMN92tuvJI/AAAAAAAAD6o/WaIO4KbRwjc/s1600/Dalet.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndLjx_uGxcE/UrMN92tuvJI/AAAAAAAAD6o/WaIO4KbRwjc/s200/Dalet.jpg" /></a> (<i>Dalet</i>) comprises four corners, each crowned with a circlet. The number aligns with the <i>gematria</i> of <i>Dalet</i> which is four. In delineating the magical glyph, we are told that it comprises four extensions, a descending line extending from top right to bottom left, and two "openings" respectively at the top and bottom of the image. The latter reminds us that the residence of the rich man should have a minimum of two entrances to allow easy thoroughfare for the poor <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dxYa6CrBofE/UrMOfe5d1CI/AAAAAAAAD6w/sjQWWB8HHJs/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Dal.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dxYa6CrBofE/UrMOfe5d1CI/AAAAAAAAD6w/sjQWWB8HHJs/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Dal.jpg" /></a> (<i>Dal</i>—"poor"). It is understood that our very success in life depends on our kindness to the lowly, in fact, the diagonal line extending from upper right corner to the bottom left of the magical glyph, indicates the blessings and abundance the Divine One extends to those who support the poor. In this regard we are told <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8tukJPmB8w/UrMOxLoOKZI/AAAAAAAAD64/bvIJFfpWrfE/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Dalet_ConsideringThePoor.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B8tukJPmB8w/UrMOxLoOKZI/AAAAAAAAD64/bvIJFfpWrfE/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Dalet_ConsideringThePoor.jpg" /></a> (<i>ashrei maskil el dal</i>—"Happy is he that considereth the poor").<br />
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The two openings in the magical glyph, and the foursquare form of the design, are said to refer to the openings and measure of ones house, of which any floorspace of 4 (<i>Dalet</i>) by 4 (<i>Dalet</i>) or more cubits necessitates a <i>Mezuzah</i>. I have addressed the amuletic virtues of the latter item in "<em>The Book of Sacred Names</em>." In this regard, Joshua Trachtenberg noted that the <i>Mezuzah</i> "retained its original significance as an amulet despite rabbinic efforts to make it an exclusively religious symbol." As it is, we are informed that all homes with <i>Mezuzot</i> are filled with the Presence of the Divine One, protecting it against dangers of all kind.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vah4CZWvyjQ/UrMPa08taEI/AAAAAAAAD7A/Pm6_frV7mfw/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Heh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vah4CZWvyjQ/UrMPa08taEI/AAAAAAAAD7A/Pm6_frV7mfw/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Heh.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Heh</i>) Regarding the current magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmDcy71IXds/UrMPmwzs6rI/AAAAAAAAD7I/bv-RsWDM14k/s1600/Heh.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BmDcy71IXds/UrMPmwzs6rI/AAAAAAAAD7I/bv-RsWDM14k/s200/Heh.jpg" /></a> (<i>Heh</i>), we are told its shape pertains to the world having been created out of this letter. This statement is substantiated by a special interpretation of <i>Genesis 2:4</i> reading:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-htEJO-JV7AY/UrMQo9xDnzI/AAAAAAAAD7c/ijTTYJQZ0yg/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Genesis2_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-htEJO-JV7AY/UrMQo9xDnzI/AAAAAAAAD7c/ijTTYJQZ0yg/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Genesis2_4.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Eleh toldot ha-shamayim v’ha-aretz b’hibar’am</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
These are the generations of the heaven and of the earth when they were created.</blockquote>
In the current instance the concluding fifth term in the phrase, i.e. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MKOzIin43mE/UrMRFg-K0SI/AAAAAAAAD7k/IcpWc5WfBvg/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Behibaram.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MKOzIin43mE/UrMRFg-K0SI/AAAAAAAAD7k/IcpWc5WfBvg/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Behibaram.jpg" /></a>, is interpreted <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9-Rh_byvzyU/UrMRTBAC63I/AAAAAAAAD7s/62M3Hr3OAuQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_BHehBaram.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9-Rh_byvzyU/UrMRTBAC63I/AAAAAAAAD7s/62M3Hr3OAuQ/s200/MetatronAlphabet_BHehBaram.jpg" /></a> (<i>b’Heh bar'am</i>) which translates "they created with <i>Heh</i>." Similarly to the magical glyph for the previous letter, the current glyph has two openings, i.e. upper and lower, and four corners, the latter said to indicate the four <i>ruchot</i> (directions), i.e. East, West, North and South. In this instance we are informed regarding the two openings, that after death the worthy individual is directed into <i>Gan Eden</i> (Garden of Eden) via the narrow upper opening. However, undeserving individuals are directed via the wide lower opening into <i>Gehinom</i> (a locale of rectification). This is said to be reflected in <i>Isaiah 5:14</i> reading:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yQWf2jmZvjg/UrMSOCTM7QI/AAAAAAAAD78/s6-cjXu9Mpk/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Isaiah5_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yQWf2jmZvjg/UrMSOCTM7QI/AAAAAAAAD78/s6-cjXu9Mpk/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Isaiah5_14.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>La-chen hir’chivah sh’ol naf’shah u’fa’arah fiha livli chok</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
Therefore the nether-world (<i>She’ol</i>) hath enlarged her desire, and opened her mouth without measure.</blockquote>
Be that as it may, we are told that the magical glyph for <i>Heh</i> is open above and below in order to show that everything in manifestation is changeable, and that a man granted with dignity and wealth, could lose everything when in his pride he raises himself above his fellow humankind. In this regard we are reminded in <i>Proverbs 16:5</i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKE-UNpVyd0/UrMS58rko9I/AAAAAAAAD8E/5_jrD60n3AI/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Proverbs16_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zKE-UNpVyd0/UrMS58rko9I/AAAAAAAAD8E/5_jrD60n3AI/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Proverbs16_5.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>To’avat YHVH kol g’vah lev</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to <i>YHVH</i>.</blockquote>
Thus the Divine One brings the haughty down, and raises up the lowly as said in <i>Psalms 75:7 </i>[<i>8</i>]:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tv-ESeCgnPU/UrMW34KPZwI/AAAAAAAAD8Q/SbWGtTIY-tw/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Psalms75_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tv-ESeCgnPU/UrMW34KPZwI/AAAAAAAAD8Q/SbWGtTIY-tw/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Psalms75_7.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Ki Elohim shofet zeh yashpil v’zeh yarim</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
For <i>Elohim </i>is judge; He putteth down one, and lifteth up another.</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>(More to follow)</strong></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-74295639173728835032013-12-17T15:19:00.000+02:002014-01-05T23:27:06.248+02:00Alfa Beta Shel Metatron: The Alphabet of Metatron – Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-86mu0EXJMOI/UrD98YAu7CI/AAAAAAAAD48/2esqZRHJKvQ/s400/MetatronAlphabet_Complete.jpg" /></a></div>
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Gershom Scholem, the late great scholar of Jewish Mysticism, maintained the “Alphabet of Metatron, the celestial scribe,” to be the oldest of these angelic alphabets, which he mentioned “is preserved in many manuscripts and came to the German Hasidim with the Babylonian Merkabah material.” [<b>Scholem, G. & Werblowsky, R.J.Z.:</b> <i>Origins of the Kabbalah</i>, Jewish Publication Society (Princeton University Press), Princeton 1990]<br />
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Now, whilst the “<i>Alphabet of Metatron</i>” is perhaps more employed for mystical/contemplative rather than magical/talismanic purposes, I believe a closer investigation of the form of its component glyphs indicates that these magical alphabets are not composed of randomly chosen signs. In fact, judging the detailed analysis of this alphabet in a commentary which Scholem thought might have “derived from the pen of Eleazar of Worms,” it appears that each glyph is loaded with meaning.<br />
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Unfortunately detailed delineations of Hebrew based magical alphabets are rare, and since we have really only one such analysis of a magical alphabet, i.e. the “<i>Alphabet of Metatron</i>” [<b>Weinstock, I.:</b> <i>Temirin: Mekorot u-Mech’karim b’Kabbalah v’Chasidut</i>, Mosad ha-Rav Kook, Jerusalem 1972], which was written by an anonymous author some centuries back, we are still in the dark as to the primary reasoning behind the construction of most of these magical alphabets. Notwithstanding this, we can get greater clarity from a closer perusal of the “<i>Alpha Beta shel Metatron</i>,” regarding which we find the following details. The information shared here does not comprise a full translation of the text in question, but merely a description of some of the relevant material:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EoBdT52t8lk/UrBA0g9h94I/AAAAAAAAD3A/l6N78-084xg/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Alef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EoBdT52t8lk/UrBA0g9h94I/AAAAAAAAD3A/l6N78-084xg/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Alef.jpg" /></a></div>
(<i>Alef</i>) We are reminded that the “Ten Commandments” commence with <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LxDg0L4Sivw/UrBE24bLM8I/AAAAAAAAD3U/3wjRF4WLDA0/s1600/Alef.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LxDg0L4Sivw/UrBE24bLM8I/AAAAAAAAD3U/3wjRF4WLDA0/s200/Alef.jpg" /></a> (<i>Alef</i>), i.e. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-waRyf5Fv2-4/UrBFUaoHoFI/AAAAAAAAD3c/sxnzSynkk_U/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Exodus20_2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-waRyf5Fv2-4/UrBFUaoHoFI/AAAAAAAAD3c/sxnzSynkk_U/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Exodus20_2.jpg" /></a> (<i>Anochi YHVH Elohecha</i>—“I am the Lord thy God”) (<i>Exodus 20:2</i>). We are also told that those who fulfil this and every other letter of the law, will after their demise be led into paradise by the archangel <i>Metatron</i>. It is said this awesome Spirit Intelligence will clothe those who are worthy, with eight raiments of the <i>Shechinah</i>, i.e. the feminine aspect of Divinity.<br />
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Curiously enough, in the “<i>Alphabet of Metatron</i>” the glyph for the letter <i>Alef</i> comprises eight endings, six of which are said to represent the six directions, three opposite three, i.e. East—West, North—South, Above—Below, plus a further two said to indicate the Unique Holy One beyond time, space and events, the "One" who encompasses everything above and all below.<br />
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We are also told that the four groupings and eight endings of the lines comprising the current magical glyph for <i>Alef</i>, denote the “Throne of Glory” resting on the four <i>Chayot ha-Kodesh</i> (Holy Living Creatures), each of which has four faces and four wings. In this regard we read in <i>Ezekiel 1:6</i>:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQ4z5bQ0UOA/UrBHW5XXriI/AAAAAAAAD3o/toNbo7YE9dk/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Ezekiel1_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="18" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQ4z5bQ0UOA/UrBHW5XXriI/AAAAAAAAD3o/toNbo7YE9dk/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Ezekiel1_6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>v’arba’ah fanim l’echat v’arba k’nafayim l’achat lahem</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
And every one had four faces, and every one of them had four wings.</blockquote>
The four “faces” and four “wings” are said to be represented by the eight endings of the magical glyph for the letter <i>Alef</i>. However, this very letter indicates the absolute oneness of the Eternal One, as expressed in <i>Deuteronomy 6:4</i> reading:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QGAYBqNSSFQ/UrBJZSqYM1I/AAAAAAAAD38/Z6SycI3QWWQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Deuteronomy6_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QGAYBqNSSFQ/UrBJZSqYM1I/AAAAAAAAD38/Z6SycI3QWWQ/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Deuteronomy6_4.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Shmah Yisra’el, YHVH Eloheinu, YHVH Echad</i></blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
Hear, O Israel, <i>YHVH</i> our Lord, <i>YHVH</i> is One.</blockquote>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwnUdZrHfFA/UrBKbhVL2kI/AAAAAAAAD4I/0moHa1eIRIw/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Bet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cwnUdZrHfFA/UrBKbhVL2kI/AAAAAAAAD4I/0moHa1eIRIw/s200/MetatronAlphabet_Bet.jpg" /></a> (<i>Bet</i>) The magical glyph for the letter <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfuP2WvVNJg/UrBK3JnkPuI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/JKcs_g7Adj4/s1600/Bet.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfuP2WvVNJg/UrBK3JnkPuI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/JKcs_g7Adj4/s320/Bet.jpg" /></a> (<i>Bet</i>) comprises four endings, three reaching upwards and the fourth downwards. In this regard we are informed that the Divine One established three of the four borders of the manifested universe, i.e. East, West and South, and that he kept the North unbounded in order to instruct an arrogant monarch, who might consider himself to be a god, that the Divine Creator (<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YHvcdDJPokQ/UrBLNfXYjtI/AAAAAAAAD4Y/LgmcFZAO6gQ/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Borei.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YHvcdDJPokQ/UrBLNfXYjtI/AAAAAAAAD4Y/LgmcFZAO6gQ/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Borei.jpg" /></a>—<i>Borei</i>) set bounds for the three listed quarters, and that the insolent human ruler should validate his power by wrapping up the fourth.<br />
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We are also told that the four endings have a further significance. In this regard, we are told that after we uttered the <i>Shema</i> (<i>Shmah Yisra’el, YHVH Eloheinu, YHVH Echad</i>—“Hear, O Godwrestler, <i>YHVH</i> Our God, <i>YHVH</i> is One”) (<i>Deuteronomy 6:4</i>), and formulated Divine Sovereignty over all four <i>ruchot</i> (winds/directions) of the earth, i.e. North, South, East and West, we conclude by blessing the handiwork of the Almighty One. Starting with the letter <i>Bet</i>, we verbalise the phrase <em>Baruch shem k’vod malchuto l’olam va’ed</em> <br />
(<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usNMdCYqfJU/UrBMuiCBk5I/AAAAAAAAD4s/0ihwYwpE2gs/s1600/MetatronAlphabet_Bet_ConcludingBlessing.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usNMdCYqfJU/UrBMuiCBk5I/AAAAAAAAD4s/0ihwYwpE2gs/s320/MetatronAlphabet_Bet_ConcludingBlessing.jpg" /></a>—“Blessed be the Name of His glorious Kingdom throughout eternity”). This is said to affirm the Talmudic statement (<i>Berachot 13b</i>) that “once you have declared Him king over all that is above and below and over the four quarters of heaven, no more is required.”<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>(More to follow)</b></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-71739315219462411482013-12-10T09:40:00.000+02:002014-04-17T23:06:34.910+02:00Amulets and Matters of the Heart - Part 2Regarding magical seals the fundamental purpose of which pertains to the generation of love of the more emotional/physical kind, a fair number can be traced in primary Jewish magical texts, amongst others the following famous one of which various versions can be found in primary Jewish magical literature:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WlECdkSCWeU/UqZWiK49rtI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/XXL336GqG3Y/s1600/Raziel_000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WlECdkSCWeU/UqZWiK49rtI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/XXL336GqG3Y/s320/Raziel_000.jpg" /></a></div><br />
These “magical seals” are employed to kindle or rekindle love between a husband and wife, or between one individual and another. We are instructed to write <i>Deuteronomy 6:5</i> at the very top of the amulet:<br />
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<b>Transliteration:</b> <br />
<blockquote><i>v’ahavta et YHVH eloheicha b’chol l’vav’cha uv’chol nafsh’cha u’v’chol m’odecha</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b> <br />
<blockquote>And thou shalt love <i>YHVH</i> thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.</blockquote>Below this is written the following adjuration, which includes the names of a set of Spirit Intelligences in charge of Love, of which the following arrangement is said to be correct:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CiOzrLyVnE8/UqZZK93OjiI/AAAAAAAAD1s/RfZRnWXXGAE/s1600/Raziel_LoveAmulet_Incantation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CiOzrLyVnE8/UqZZK93OjiI/AAAAAAAAD1s/RfZRnWXXGAE/s320/Raziel_LoveAmulet_Incantation.jpg" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote><i>Y’hi ratzon milfanecha YHVH Elohai v’Elohei avotai shetishlach malachecha ha-kadoshim ha-memonim al ahavah PTTzShA TA HVHY KYHLA ShLCh KShShL PShLCh TVBL shiyasimu ahavah v’achvah bein [.....Ploni ben Ploni.....] u’vein [.....Ploni ben Ploni.....] v’lo tiyeh l’hem sin’ah v’lo kin’ah v’lo tacharut v’lo k’tatah v’lo davar ra v’lo lev ra ela lev shalem v’lev tov v’ahavah shalom v’rei’ut mei’atah v’ad olam Omein Netzach Selah Va’ed</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>May it be your will <i>YHVH</i> my God, and God of my fathers, to send your Holy Angels in charge of love <i>PTTzShA TA HVHY KYHLA ShLCh KShShL PShLCh TVBL</i> to establish love and unity between [.....fill in the name of the first individual.....] and [.....fill in the name of the second individual.....], and they will not have hatred, and no jealousy, and no rivalry, and no quarrels, and no bad thing, and no bad heart, only a complete heart and a good heart, and love and unity and peace and friendship, from now unto eternity <i>Amen</i>, Enduring (Victory), <i>Selah</i>, Forever.</blockquote>In conclusion, the “Magical Seal” is located on the reverse side of the amulet.<br />
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Whilst this amulet may be somewhat complex in its construction, the following three sets of “magical seals” are also employed in <i>Kameot</i> to encourage physical love, and are easily constructed. The first set is utilised in the strengthening of love between married partners, or between a woman and a man. To achieve this aim, the following <i>chotamot</i> (magical seals) should be written by each one of the partners on sheets of clean, good quality paper, which is afterwards exchanged between them, and respectively carried on their persons:<br />
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The second set of magical seals is employed to engender a bond of love between one individual and another. In this regard, the instruction is for the individual seeking to engender love, to write on the second day of the week (Monday – Day of the Moon), his personal name and the name of his mother on the palm of his hand, i.e. “so and so son of so and so.” Next, the name of the one in whom the fire of love is to be awakened, as well as the name of her mother, is likewise written on the palm of the same hand. This is concluded by adding the following magical seals to the writing. It is said that if the individual seeking love should afterwards put his hand on the one he desires, “he will be blessed” with affection.<br />
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The third set is for a young lady seeking to be married. In this regard, the instruction is for her to write the following <i>chotamot</i>, which should be hung on the door of her residence or bedroom:<br />
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As you might imagine, I have shared a great amount of details regarding Hebrew amulets of all kinds in the 500+ pages of my "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>," of which I can offer but a foretaste on this blog.Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-6950306066065283312013-12-09T10:42:00.000+02:002013-12-11T12:35:52.554+02:00Amulets and Matters of the Heart - Part 1There are certainly many Hebrew Amulets composed to engender “love.” It is understood that “love” equates with “grace” and “kindness,” hence <i>Kameot</i> meant to effectuate love also incorporate references to gracefulness and loving-kindness, as indicated in the next set of amulets. As it is, the following amulet is for love, grace and loving-kindness, and all seeking to increase these qualities in their lives should simply write the following seals on parchment, or a clean sheet of paper, and carry it on their person:<br />
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In the next amulet for finding favour and love in the eyes of specific individuals, the magical procedure is somewhat more intricate. In this instance you are required to write the following magical seals on the palm of your right hand:<br />
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Afterwards the hand with the writing is wiped on your face as you simultaneously say ten times <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ls1SdwDKak/UqT0ABZ9WtI/AAAAAAAADzk/LPSiC-0EwIE/s1600/Shorshei_LoveAmulet_002_Genesis6verse8.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ls1SdwDKak/UqT0ABZ9WtI/AAAAAAAADzk/LPSiC-0EwIE/s200/Shorshei_LoveAmulet_002_Genesis6verse8.jpg" /></a> (<i>v’noach matza chen b’enei YHVH</i>—“and Noah found grace in the eyes of <i>YHVH</i>”) [<i>Genesis 6:8</i>]. Continue the procedure by uttering the following adjuration:<br />
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<b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Y’hi ratzon milfanecha shetitneni l’chen v’l’chesed b’enei</i> [.....<i>Ploni ben Ploni</i>.....]</blockquote>
<b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>
May it be your will that I will find grace and loving-kindness in the eyes of [.....fill in the Name.....]</blockquote>
Conclude the action by rinsing your hand in a bowl of water, and then imbibe this infused liquid. One final instruction remains. We are told that each time you should find yourself in the presence of the individual whose name you mentioned in your adjuration, i.e. the one from whom you are seeking favour and kindness, look at the palm of your right hand and say <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KSw-SHngq6k/UqT3IANpnqI/AAAAAAAAD0U/4f8Eqp5x_iM/s1600/Shorshei_LoveAmulet_002_OrielCall.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KSw-SHngq6k/UqT3IANpnqI/AAAAAAAAD0U/4f8Eqp5x_iM/s200/Shorshei_LoveAmulet_002_OrielCall.jpg" /></a> (<i>Z’man peira’on Ori’el</i>—“Payback time <i>Ori’el</i>").<br />
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The next amulet pertains to restoring affection between two friends. In this regard, we are told that when a conflict ensues between yourself and a friend, that you should write the following <i>chotamot</i> (magical seals) on a piece of parchment, which is afterwards tied to ones arm:<br />
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We are told that the friend will neither have peace nor find rest, until the matter is resolved and the friendship restored.<br />
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Now, the following seal pertains to being “in love,” or to affection of the “mating” kind. In this instance, when a woman openly expresses her desire for a man, he could affirm and, as it were, "seal" that attraction by first writing the following seals on his hand:<br />
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This is followed by placing the hand comprising the writing on her head. We are told that “then she will have you.” I would say if both parties wanted each other that badly, they could certainly “have” each other without any further ado! I suppose one might say these seals and action sets the right mood and energy like a spiritual aphrodisiac.....so to speak!<br />
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On the other hand, we are informed that when a husband suspects his wife of infidelity and desires her to “tell all,” he should write the following <i>chotamot</i> on his left hand, afterwards placing it on her heart:<br />
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We are told the lady in question will pour out her heart, revealing her every action. It is said the situation may be resolved, by her submitting to a period of around ten days of deliberate fasting and purification with fully focussed intent. Obviously this entire action pertains to a very forgiving husband.<br />
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<b>(More to follow)</b></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-80038174134113843612013-12-05T23:34:00.000+02:002013-12-05T23:34:16.032+02:00The Name of Seventy-two Names in Hebrew Amulets - Part 3The following <i>Kamea</i> in the group of fourteen amulets constructed from the previously listed "alternative" version "Name of Seventy-two Names," might be considered to be on the borderline of those considered to be of the malevolent kind. However, it is actually meant to combat malevolence, and it will be clear to any halfway sane member of the human race, that counteracting the vindictive inclinations of our fellow humankind is sometimes a necessity. This is what the following is meant to achieve.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Kamea</em> 4</strong></div><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2wZiWad6WHg/UqDrGgU5i_I/AAAAAAAADyY/ykdFu41s1S8/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="23" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2wZiWad6WHg/UqDrGgU5i_I/AAAAAAAADyY/ykdFu41s1S8/s200/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet003.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>This amulet is employed to “shut the mouth” of a slanderer. Whilst this action is somewhat belligerent, it is clear that its use may well be required by those who are suffering the unpleasant effects of <em>lashon ha-ra</em> (the “evil tongue”). This being said, it is perfectly clear that we are all “self creators,” and that time could be far better spent focussing on that which “empowers” ones being into a full recognition of “oneness,” which would reduce the defamatory behaviour of a perceived “enemy” into absolute meaninglessness.<br />
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Of course, humanity has a long way to go before this is fully realised, and I am perfectly aware that each one of us is struggling to cope with personal vulnerabilities in terms of physical, mental and emotional survival. In this regard, “magical self defence” may well be necessary in certain situations, and this is where there is a <i>Kamea</i> designed to control defamatory speech. To achieve this, you have to write the listed five tri-letter portions of the “<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>” on a small square of parchment made from calfskin. It has also been suggested that the amulet could be written on the placenta of a cow.<br />
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Afterwards the amulet is to be carried on your person. On encountering the perfidious storyteller, the amulet is to be held tightly in your hand. When you come face to face with the individual in question, you are to expose without any sign of fear the <i>Kamea</i> to the individual whilst looking that person straight in the eye. The trick is to expose the vilifier to the amulet in a sort of hidden manner, e.g. he/she must not actually physically see the magical object. The individual will not be able to make any malicious remarks regarding your person whilst you are present.<br />
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There is further instruction regarding exposing the individual to the amulet a second time prior to departing his/her company. In this instance you are to reveal both the front and the back of the parchment, whilst fearlessly looking the said individual straight in the eye, and then depart with confidence and faith in Divine support. Bear in mind that in all circumstances the exposition of this <i>Kamea</i> should always be in the mentioned hidden manner.<br />
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On sharing this a while back with a fellow “magical Companion,” who was suffering the brunt of a slanderous tongue, I was queried as to the possibility of working the procedure in the imagination, i.e. whilst the individual is not physically present. On considering the much abused saying that “the thought is as good as the deed,” I suggested he give it a try. To our great surprise, the magical action applied mentally produced equally great results. In this instance, my friend faced his detractor mentally, and whilst looking fearlessly and with great confidence into the eyes of the envisioned individual, he exposed to that character the physical amulet he had been clasping in his hand.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Kamea</em> 5</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_XOpAfFO6VI/UqDteIWGvFI/AAAAAAAADyk/P_S7439yYoI/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet004.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="126" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_XOpAfFO6VI/UqDteIWGvFI/AAAAAAAADyk/P_S7439yYoI/s200/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet004.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>These Divine Names and accompanying seals are employed in instances necessitating some or other request having to be presented to a higher authority, i.e. a governmental administrator, judiciary, or another in high office who might impact ones life benevolently. In this instance the original instruction requires one to write the listed five tri-letter Names and accompanying magical seals on parchment made from the skin of an aborted animal. I am aware that this <i>Kamea</i> was employed to great effect with the said Divine Names and seals written on plain good parchment, hence I suggest you spare yourself the gory task of having to skin an aborted animal. Voodooistic actions such as these might have impressed mediaeval mindsets, but more recent experience clearly indicates the task at hand to be well executed with great effect by means of the many good parchments available in our day.<br />
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As said, the instruction is to write the Divine Names and seals on parchment, which is held in your hand or carried in your belt during the time when you have to face the higher authority with a personal request. However, since this action requires great purity to ensure a beneficial outcome, it is necessary to fast and to perform prayers and ritual submersion in a sacred bath (<em>Mikveh</em>). Regarding the latter activity, we are informed that if such is not at your disposal, then you must be careful to abstain from any sexual activity for around two days prior to seeking a specific service from an individual in high office.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em>Kamea</em> 10</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwE0tywa_Lc/UqDuIWP73BI/AAAAAAAADys/4h7zYsHOTp0/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="23" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwE0tywa_Lc/UqDuIWP73BI/AAAAAAAADys/4h7zYsHOTp0/s200/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet005.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>This portion of the “Name of Seventy-two Names” is employed in an amulet to work <em>Kefitzat ha-Derech</em> (“Shortening the Way,” i.e. magical travel or teleportation). We are instructed that the first time you work this technique, you have to enter into a ritual bath (<em>Mikveh</em>). This portion of the procedure is not required when you repeat the procedure, however you should always perform some self purification prior to working this procedure.<br />
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Afterwards, write the relevant five Divine Names conjointly with an adjuration on deerskin parchment. The latter reads:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBRsOkXhk5c/UqDu4oFm83I/AAAAAAAADy0/SOxqDdhsKgY/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet005_Adjuration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBRsOkXhk5c/UqDu4oFm83I/AAAAAAAADy0/SOxqDdhsKgY/s320/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet005_Adjuration.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><strong>Transliteration:</strong><br />
<blockquote><i>Mashbi’a ani aleichem ha-chamishah shemot ha-k’doshim v’ha-t’horim b’shem ha-keter ha-nora Elohei ha-Elohim v’Adonai ha-Adonim ha-El ha-gadol ha-gibor v’ha-nora shetolichuni mimakom zeh she’ani omed alav ad makom ploni benachat v’lo b’tzar b’ha-shket b’vetach u’b’menuchah b’bri’ut gufi v’beshlimut everai b’chol ha-derech ha-zeh asher anochi rotzeh leleach ad makom ploni v’tavi’uni l’machoz cheftzi v’tanuchuni b’nachat ru’ach ba’derech kedei shelo etzta’er v’lo etbalbel v’tihyeh halichati betach kecheftzi u’kerotzoni v’lo titnu r’shut l’shum bri’ah lehazikeni b’chol inyan ba’olam v’lo l’katreg v’lo l’ar’er alai v’al ya’ak’vuni b’shum makom shelo birtzoni v’hizdamnu elai la’asot b’kashati v’r’tzoni Omein Selah</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b><blockquote>I adjure you with these five holy and pure Names, in the Name of the awesome Crown, God of Gods and Lord of Lords, the great, strong and awesome God, that you transport me from this place I am standing on, to a certain place gently, not in distress but calmly, securely and restfully, in health of my body and completeness of limbs throughout this entire journey to the place I wish to visit, unto a certain place, and guide me satisfactorily on the way that I will suffer no regret and no confusion, and the course of my journey secure in accordance with my wish and my will, and do not grant permission to any creature to harm me in any manner in the world, and not denounce and not appeal against me and not delay me in any place which is not within my will and which passes my way, but act according to my wish and my will. <i>Amen Selah</i>.</blockquote><br />
When you have concluded writing this incantation, the scroll is placed inside a bamboo tube. We are informed the bamboo segment must comprise seven knots, and should be “<i>arba amot</i>” (four cubits). The length of one cubit is from the elbow to the tip of the middle finger which, we are told, is around 20 inches. Four cubits would then be 80 inches, i.e. 6 feet 8 inches or 203.2 centimetres. Following the insertion of the scroll, the two ends of the bamboo staff are sealed with fresh white wax.<br />
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You have to purify yourself, refrain from all sexual activity, and practice a fast during which you restrict yourself to consuming bread and water only, all of this taking place for a period of twenty-four hours prior to performing magical travel. When the time arrives to work the technique, your entire body needs to be washed, after which you have to put on a clean white garment. You must then exit the city, the instruction being that you walk the length of a bowshot out of town. Whilst raising the bamboo wand in front of your body, and without speaking, turn your head to look backwards momentarily, after which continue walking until you arrive at your destination. The instruction is not to allow your eyes to wander in any way whatsoever, i.e. looking sideways, but to proceed straight ahead. In this regard, there have been suggestions elsewhere that your face be covered with a kerchief during the magical travel.<br />
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It is said you will have no physical sensory experiences of anything during the magical journey, i.e. whether there be mountains or rivers along the way, you will not have any direct experience of these. It is said that you will “fly like an eagle,” and that the destination you seek will be in the very first town or city you arrive at. After having arrived at your destination, you are to lower the bamboo wand and proceed into the town as you carry the lowered wand, and to fulfil the fundamental purpose of your visit.<br />
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Further instruction reads that should you wish to overnight in the location, that you need to remove the scroll from the bamboo tube and place it where it can be guarded whilst you are sleeping, e.g. under your pillow. On waking you may relocate the item inside the wand should you wish to employ it again, i.e. to effect the return journey.<br />
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I wonder if anyone has actually dared to initiate this kind of "magical travel," what to say work it successfully!Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-65027741086265489522013-12-04T21:38:00.000+02:002014-04-17T23:07:35.768+02:00The Name of Seventy-two Names in Hebrew Amulets - Part 2It might come as a surprise to learn that the "Name of Seventy-two Names" is also employed in a variant format in Jewish magic. In this regard the arrangements of the letters of the three verses comprising this Divine Name are in the exact same order, i.e. as written from right to left, the result being as follows:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eOrzm-ycwAc/Up967AHlPJI/AAAAAAAADxk/8wGJpk2tQVM/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eOrzm-ycwAc/Up967AHlPJI/AAAAAAAADxk/8wGJpk2tQVM/s400/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative.jpg" /></a></div>As indicated, these combinations are presented with vowels, since some magical applications require these in certain instances. In this regard, the vowels are directly related to their order of appearance as aligned with the letters comprising the three biblical verses from whence the “<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>” was derived. We are told that both the standard and variant seventy-two tri-letter units can be employed for exactly the same talismanic purposes, which in the current instance require the tri-letter units to be arranged into thirteen <i>Kameot</i> comprised of five units each, and one <i>Kamea</i> of seven units.<br />
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As it is, such employment of the “Name of Seventy-two Names” necessitates precise knowledge regarding the exact days when these <i>Kameot</i> should be composed. In this regard:<br />
<ol><li>the first amulet is written on the third day of any Hebrew month;</li>
<li>the second is written on the seventh day of the month;</li>
<li>the third on the tenth day of the month;</li>
<li>the fourth on the twentieth of the month;</li>
<li>the fifth on the twenty-third of the month; and</li>
<li>all of the remaining <em>Kameot</em> are written on the twenty-ninth day of the month.</li>
</ol>The actual mental/emotional stance of the one composing these <i>Kameot</i> plays a primary role in the efficacy of each amulet. Hence the instruction to acquire a most harmonious mindset prior to commencing the creation of a <i>Kamea</i>, and, whilst the Divine Names are being written, to recite the component Divine Names in a pleasant voice. In fact, we are told the power of these amulets necessitates cleanliness of body, great mental and emotional purity, devotion, fasting, as well as abstinence from any sexual activities for at least three days prior to commencement of these magical procedures.<br />
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Of the fourteen <i>Kameot</i> under discussion, some are constructed for benevolent purposes, e.g. love, etc., and quite a number are employed for nefarious outcomes, e.g. deeds of hatred, psychic restraint of unwilling victims, intimidation and causing people to fear you, attacking an individual at a distance, etc. In my estimation indulgence in such vile activities deserves the strongest condemnation. It should be noted that the term “vile” is but a permutation of the word “evil.”<br />
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Since this blog, and all the volumes of my "<i>Shadow Tree Series</i>," are devoted to spiritual and magical practices meant to improve and uplift on all levels of existence, the life of the serious and devoted practitioner of these arts, as well as impacting the larger community and environment, I will not share any activities pertaining to expressing hate, seeking vengeance, working acts of destruction on ones fellow humankind, or anything of that ilk. Hence we will inspect only amulets which benefit us in the most meaningful manner, without detracting in any manner from anything or anyone. In this regard, I have selected the following <i>Kameot</i> to be listed here:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Kamea</i> 1</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-slgQSfu_NsA/Up9-3Z4yWCI/AAAAAAAADxw/O5x3LaRLGCw/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-slgQSfu_NsA/Up9-3Z4yWCI/AAAAAAAADxw/O5x3LaRLGCw/s200/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet001.jpg" /></a></div>The first <i>Kamea</i> is composed to generate love. Whilst the instruction is to write this amulet on a <i>kosher</i> deerskin scroll, it is equally good to employ a good, clean sheet of plain parchment, i.e. the kind used by scribes to write <i>mezuzo</i>t or those employed in the construction of <i>tefilin</i> (phylacteries). We are informed that if these items are not readily available when required, that one may write the Divine Names and magical seals on a day old egg of a black chicken. Afterwards the egg is incinerated in a fire and its ashes stored inside a small pouch, locket or other tiny container to be carried on ones person.<br />
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As noted, the five tri-letter Names and accompanying magical seals are to be written on the third day of a Hebrew month, and it is important that the said day should be bright, clear, free from cloud and rain. A Hebrew calendar will indicate the exact day in terms of the standard dates employed globally.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Kamea</i> 2</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DoVKdwUoaO0/Up-AILhdAUI/AAAAAAAADx8/RbFN1fHqvy4/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DoVKdwUoaO0/Up-AILhdAUI/AAAAAAAADx8/RbFN1fHqvy4/s200/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet002.jpg" /></a></div>This <i>Kamea</i> is created to “open the heart,” i.e. expand ones consciousness to comprehend the greater whole in terms of sacred studies, etc. We mentioned that this amulet should be written on the tenth day of the month, however further instruction maintains that it should be composed in the seventh hour on <i>Rosh Chodesh</i> (first day) of the Hebrew month <i>Sivan</i>, or as close to this day as possible, if the appropriate time should fall on <i>Shabbat</i> (Sabbath). The <i>Kamea</i> should again be written on <em>kosher</em> parchment. The listed five tri-letter portions are penned on the front of the parchment, and the following set of Divine and Angelic Names in conjunction with a short adjuration, are written on the rear portion of the amulet:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmziHfkDwe0/Up-B0JMwRYI/AAAAAAAADyI/p0ihVmOXSc0/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet002_DivineAngelicNames.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="37" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmziHfkDwe0/Up-B0JMwRYI/AAAAAAAADyI/p0ihVmOXSc0/s320/ShemVayisaVayet_Alternative_Amulet002_DivineAngelicNames.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b> <br />
<blockquote><i>HVY Bari’el Rafa’el Ani’el YH VHV Sarfi’el tiftechu libi temaharu v’tiftechu libi l’milaf ulpan d’oraita</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote><i>HVY Bari’el Rafa’el Ani’el YH VHV Sarfi’el</i> open my heart, hurry and open my heart, open my heart to spiritual teachings (Higher Laws [<i>Torah</i> instruction])</blockquote>Afterwards the amulet is placed in a glass of wine in order to dissolve the writing. However, here is another important point to consider. The wine itself is to be placed in the earth for the period of two weeks between <i>Rosh Chodesh</i> (first day) of the month <i>Sivan</i> to <i>Erev Shavu’ot</i> (Eve of the Festival of Weeks), or for the period of two weeks between <i>Rosh Chodesh</i> (first day) of the month <i>Nisan</i> to <i>Erev Pesach</i> (Eve of Passover).<br />
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After dissolving the writing on the parchment in the wine, the procedure is concluded by the liquid being consumed. Then, we are told, “you will see wonders.”<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>(More to follow)</b></div>Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-54509787695505662882013-12-04T00:14:00.000+02:002014-04-17T23:08:07.031+02:00The Name of Seventy-two Names in Hebrew Amulets - Part 1The "Name of Seventy-two Names" (<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>) have been addressed in several essays posted on this blog, and it would seem that the attributions of certain unsubstantiated "powers" to each of its seventy-two component tri-letter portions, as well as the employment of contemporary hard sell, the Divine Name in question has achieved the precarious status of a "celebutante," i.e. a combination of a "celebrity" and a "debutante" who elicits enormous acclaim which sometimes ends in notoriety. In "<i>The Book of Sacred Names</i>" I have attempted to rescue the "Name of Seventy-two Names" from the latter fate, by devoting a chapter to a detailed investigation into the meaning and use of the "<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>" in Practical Kabbalah. As might be expected, the 143 pages comprising the said chapter, cannot afford a complete exposition of the "Name of Seventy-two Names," and much remained to be said, hence it resurfaced in my "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>," in which I am addressing the use of this enigmatic Divine Name in Hebrew amulets.<br />
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This remarkable Divine Name is extensively employed in Hebrew amulets, sometimes in portions and sometimes even engraved in full on small silver trays, as shown in the following <i>Kamea</i>:<br />
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<div align="center"><strong>Front</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FwiierpMYE/Up5PhkW4VJI/AAAAAAAADwk/ZFNhXqcHHIk/s1600/ShemhamAmulet002A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FwiierpMYE/Up5PhkW4VJI/AAAAAAAADwk/ZFNhXqcHHIk/s320/ShemhamAmulet002A.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Rear</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O9XVh7iuqd8/Up5PsK8SGBI/AAAAAAAADws/94U6udsi_1k/s1600/ShemhamAmulet002B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O9XVh7iuqd8/Up5PsK8SGBI/AAAAAAAADws/94U6udsi_1k/s320/ShemhamAmulet002B.jpg" /></a></div><br />
In this instance the front portion of the construct comprises nine rows, each of which is made up of eight tri-letter portions of the “<i>Shem Vayisa Vayet</i>.” The rear portion reads:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJl-bdidrGU/Up5SZ4Z6rHI/AAAAAAAADw4/hZWe9DBtrCQ/s1600/ShemVayisaVayet_Amulet001_front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJl-bdidrGU/Up5SZ4Z6rHI/AAAAAAAADw4/hZWe9DBtrCQ/s320/ShemVayisaVayet_Amulet001_front.jpg" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote><i>AViGe YaToTzi KaRo’ SaTaN’ NaGiDa YeiCheiSha BiTaRo TzaTaG’ CheKeVa Tin’I YaGaLi P’Z’Kei ShuKoVa TzoYaT’ Anaktam Pastam Paspasim Dionsim Matz’patz Sh’ma’ayah Yohach Kalach Kuzu B’mochsaz Kuzu Metatron Shamri’el Ori’el Mahash Rafa’el Gavri’el Micha’el Nuri’el Razi’el Sandalfon Yofi’el An’el Shefi Adiriron G’vurti’el Atneik Shadai Tzadki’el An’el Kaftzi’el Azri’el Hadri’el Sanoi Sansanoi Semangelof l’shmirat nose kamea zeh</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b> <br />
<blockquote><i>AViGe YaToTzi KaRo’ SaTaN’ NaGiDa YeiCheiSha BiTaRo TzaTaG’ CheKeVa Tin’I YaGaLi P’Z’Kei ShuKoVa TzoYaT’ Anaktam Pastam Paspasim Dionsim Matz’patz Sh’ma’ayah Yohach Kalach Kuzu B’mochsaz Kuzu Metatron Shamri’el Ori’el Mahash Rafa’el Gavri’el Micha’el Nuri’el Razi’el Sandalfon Yofi’el An’el Shefi Adiriron G’vurti’el Atneik Shadai Tzadki’el An’el Kaftzi’el Azri’el Hadri’el Sanoi Sansanoi Semangelof</i> for protection, this being the purpose of this amulet.</blockquote>As noted the rear portion of the amulet incorporates several Divine Names previously addressed on this blog, as well as the Names of a number of Angelic Intelligences, all acting conjointly in the task of guarding and benefitting the owner of the said <i>Kamea</i>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>(more to follow)</strong></div>Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-9004543220615820932013-11-29T21:31:00.000+02:002014-04-17T23:12:08.202+02:00Hebrew based Celestial Alphabets and the PicatrixMy previous essay titled "<i>Celestial Alphabets & Dream Questions</i>" elicited a number of queries regarding correlations between the Arabic/Latin "<i>Picatrix</i>" and the Hebrew based "Magical Alphabets." Since I believe the topic is of interest to a wider readership, I thought I would respond publically. I should mention that I have devoted two chapters respectively to "Magic Squares" and Hebrew based "Magical Alphabets" in my "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>." In both instances I have presented a comprehensive and detailed investigation into the said subjects, having consulted the most primary sources I could lay my hands on.<br />
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Be that as it may, it is worth considering that there are several magical scripts, called <i>Kolmosin</i> (lit. “angelic pens”) or “<i>ketav einayim</i>” (“eye writing”), believed to be angelic alphabets. These are addressed in certain primary Hebrew magical manuscripts, [<b>Tirshom, J. ben E.:</b> <i>Shoshan Yesod Olam</i>, Bibliothèque de Genève: Comites Latentes 145, Genève; <b>Zacutto, M.:</b> <i>Shorshei ha-Shemot</i>, Hotzaat Nezer Shraga, Jerusalem 1999; etc.] as well as in a number of Latin texts.[<b>Agrippa, H.C.:</b> <i>De Occulta Philosophia</i>, 3 Vols., Apud Godfridum & Marcellum, Beringos 1550; <b>Postel, W.:</b> <i>De Originibus seu de Hebraicae Linguae & Gentis Antiquitate</i>, deque variarum linguarum affinitate liber, Apud Dionysium Lescuier, Paris 1538; <b>Gaffarel, J.:</b> <i>Curiositez Inouyes hoc est Curiositates Inauditae de Figuris Persarum Talismannicis</i>, Horoscopo Patriarcharum et Characteribus Coelestibus, Gothofredum Schultzen: Hamburg; Janssonio Waesbergios: Amsterdam 1676; <b>Bartolocci, G.:</b> <i>Bibliotheca Magna Rabbinica</i>, Vol. 4, Carlo Giuseppe Imbonati, Rome 1693; <b>Müller, A.:</b> <i>Alphabeta ac Notae Diversarum Linguarum pene Septuaginta tum & Versiones Orationis Dominicae prope centum collecta olim & illustrata ab Andrea Mullero</i>, Johann Lieberman, Berlin 1703.]<br />
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In some of the Latin writings it was surmised the angelic scripts were derived from the Samaritan alphabet. This claim is debatable, and the origins of these magical alphabets still remain obscure. It has been noted that whilst “in many discussions of Jewish magic these signs are often referred to as ‘Kabbalistic signs’,” “they are mostly non-Jewish in origins, and predate the rise of Kabbalah.” [<b>Bohak, G.:</b> <i>The Charaktêres in Ancient and Medieval Jewish Magic in Acta Classica Universitatis Scientiarum Debreceniensis</i>, Vol. 47, Univ Debreceniensis, Debrecen 2011.] In recent years it has been suggested that the "Magical Alphabets" listed in the writings of Cornelius Agrippa, were derived from the "<i>Picatrix</i>." [<b>Bing, G.:</b> <i>“Picatrix” das Ziel des Weisen von Pseudo-Magriti</i>, The Warburg Institute University of London, London 1962; <b>Atallah, H.:</b> <i>Picatrix</i> (<i>Ghayat al-Hakim</i>)<i>: The Goal of the Wise</i>, edited by W. Kiesel, 2 Volumes, Ouroboros Press, Seattle 2002.] Whilst this text comprises delineations of amulets and talismans, and references to certain magical glyphs of similar format to some of those appearing in the “Heavenly Alphabets,” and some of which I have delineated in "<i>The Book of Seals & Amulets</i>," I have not found direct reference to any of the complete magical alphabets listed by Agrippa, most of these appearing in the earlier mentioned "<i>Shoshan Yesod Olam</i>."<br />
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It is however clear, as Moshe Idel noted, that the "<i>Picatrix</i>" had a “profound influence” on Renaissance magic,” [<b>Walker, D.P.:</b> <i>Spiritual and Demonic Magic: From Ficino to Campanella</i>, The Warburg Institute, University of London, London 1958; <b>Yates, F.A.:</b> <i>Giordano Bruno and the Hermetic Tradition</i>, Routledge & Kegan Paul, Henley-on-Thames 1964; <b>Idel, M.:</b> <i>Kabbalah in Italy 1280-1510: A Survey</i>, Yale University Press, New Haven 2011.] There are indeed direct correlations between certain magical glyphs appearing in both the "<i>Picatrix</i>" and Jewish magical literature. After all, the "<i>Picatrix</i>" was translated into Hebrew in an abbreviated format under the title “<i>Tachlit he-Chacham</i>” (“Aim of the Wise”), which is said to have “significantly influenced Jewish circles in the 14th and 15th centuries.” [<b>Schwartz, D.:</b> <i>Central Problems of Medieval Jewish Philosophy</i>, Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden 2005.] This certainly suggests the "<i>Picatrix</i>" as a primary source in certain Jewish magical traditions, i.e. "Magic Squares"; certain Planetary Seals; etc.Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-56301598330852458552013-11-27T22:54:00.000+02:002014-01-05T20:59:55.320+02:00Celestial Alphabets & Dream QuestionsWhen I was a little boy I overheard a conversation between a burly Jewish biker, and my paternal grandfather who was trying to convince the biker of the "error of his ways." The gentleman in question used to go on, what appeared to be, long journeys at night on his bike, traversing for no apparent reason the extensive flat-lands of the Free State province of South Africa. When my grandfather advised him to rather stay at home, say his bedtime prayers and retire to bed, the biker said that he was communicating every night with the Almighty. In fact, he maintained that he knew the "secret language" by which creation is being manifested, and that he could read its "unfoldment" in the night sky whilst crossing the open spaces of the Free State.<br />
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As my grandfather shook his head in disbelief, and waved the "heathen" away most indignantly, I ran after the biker and asked him if he could teach me how to read the "secret messages" in the sky. He gently informed me the stars are part of the very big saga of the beginning and end of everything happening at once in an enormous, most holy "talisman." He told me that the universe changes all the time in accordance with this ongoing "telling of life in the sky," and that, when I was a little older, he would teach me the very "holy alphabet of creation." Then I too may read the "Word of God" at night in the stars. Being at the time unacquainted with the term "talisman," I wanted to know what it was. In very simple language, he defined it a deliberately constructed "spiritual channel" through which Divine Power can be transmitted for our benefit.<br />
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To say that I was deeply impressed by this individual would be an understatement. I was imagining a diversity of huge invisible pipes reaching down from the stars, through which the "Holy Power" of the Divine One is flowing down into our world, in order to affect our lives for the better. Alas, that was the only conversation my biker friend and I would ever have, since he died a short while afterwards in an automobile accident.....during the hours of daylight, when he was not being "distracted" by divine messages in the night sky!<br />
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Around twelve years later, when I chanced upon the conception of Guillaume Postel that the will of the Eternal One appears in the vault of the heavens in the form of special Hebrew glyphs, I surmised my biker friend gained his notion of reading the "Word of God in the night sky" either from Postel, or from his admirer Jacques Gaffarel, a 17th century French Kabbalist and librarian to the famous Richelieu, who adopted Postel’s cosmic writing notions, and created the following illustration of the "celestial alphabet" in the ever changing "talisman of the heavens."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11Jbcn2dEAc/UpZONl_datI/AAAAAAAADuA/9nBFpnnqIVQ/s1600/Gaffarel01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-11Jbcn2dEAc/UpZONl_datI/AAAAAAAADuA/9nBFpnnqIVQ/s320/Gaffarel01.jpg" /></a></div>The endings of each letter comprise little circles. Each of these represents a star, sets of which are joined by lines to form the "magical language" of the "celestial alphabet." These constructs are based on the Hebrew alphabet, and Gaffarel derived his version of this alphabet from the "occult" writings of Cornelius Agrippa, as shown in the following table indicating the formats of the "Celestial Alphabet" from Agrippa to our own time:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vSfAfTa0zM/UpZRJl_2CJI/AAAAAAAADuU/3XfYeDu01ZI/s1600/CelestialAlphabet001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9vSfAfTa0zM/UpZRJl_2CJI/AAAAAAAADuU/3XfYeDu01ZI/s320/CelestialAlphabet001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The “Celestial Alphabet” is probably the most well known of all the angelic scripts. As indicated, it appears in a miscellany of calligraphical configurations ranging from simple lines to the following emboldened and outlined format:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OL4QE-BgEuo/UpZUQQ1MAPI/AAAAAAAADug/x5MUxKFC4-8/s1600/CelestialAlphabet002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OL4QE-BgEuo/UpZUQQ1MAPI/AAAAAAAADug/x5MUxKFC4-8/s200/CelestialAlphabet002.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>An entire magical system was built around a magical alphabet comprised of glyphs emboldened in this manner. Such "fattened" glyphs are at times employed in Hebrew amulets, as indicated in the following <i>Kamea</i> created for the purpose of finding an answer to a vexing question, or a beneficial response to a special request:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w6Xmr53j-Fs/UpZVAsbk86I/AAAAAAAADuo/Dk70rwpxQsM/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="95" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w6Xmr53j-Fs/UpZVAsbk86I/AAAAAAAADuo/Dk70rwpxQsM/s200/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion001.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>In standard Hebrew script the magical inscription reads:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o7NiIORzD0c/UpZWw71Nr_I/AAAAAAAADvQ/w3uDfz2HAb8/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o7NiIORzD0c/UpZWw71Nr_I/AAAAAAAADvQ/w3uDfz2HAb8/s320/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion002.jpg" /></a></div>These three names, which we are informed should be drawn in the format of the magical seals listed above, are in fact acronyms of the following angelic names:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lQZ2X_AFQiw/UpZXUwN6R7I/AAAAAAAADvY/SLp6HWj9ZN8/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="65" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lQZ2X_AFQiw/UpZXUwN6R7I/AAAAAAAADvY/SLp6HWj9ZN8/s320/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b><blockquote><i>Vad’el A’ma’el D’avi’el Micha’il [Miva’el] Av’mi’el Vav’da’el Mamav’el A’av’el Tat’va’i’el Mat’ri’el B’mati’el</i></blockquote>The magical inscription, the associated angelic names, as well as five concluding Divine Names should be written on deerskin parchment, or a sheet of clean, good quality paper. The mentioned five concluding Names are:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNNz6TzmOsI/UpZY7EwGg-I/AAAAAAAADvk/Rm0oa2D6xfs/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNNz6TzmOsI/UpZY7EwGg-I/AAAAAAAADvk/Rm0oa2D6xfs/s200/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion004.jpg" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b><blockquote><i>’gaf n’gaf sh’gaf t’gaf r’gaf</i></blockquote>Afterwards the writing is dissolved in a glass of water, which is then ingested by the one seeking the spiritual response. This is followed by spontaneous prayer which does not include any form of adjuration. We are told that without a doubt, the query will be answered in dream during sleep, and that this is a tried and tested technique.<br />
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It should be noted that the first three of the odd sounding concluding Divine Names, i.e. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTb6NUkzbr8/UpZaAO08ILI/AAAAAAAADvw/eyJfy8JlWf8/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion005.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTb6NUkzbr8/UpZaAO08ILI/AAAAAAAADvw/eyJfy8JlWf8/s200/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion005.jpg" /></a>, are also employed in a somewhat more complex "Dream Question" procedure. In this regard, one is instructed to carefully wash the body from the hips downwards. Afterwards the "<i>Hashkiveinu</i>" prayer is said. It reads:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiCKpgEwnq4/UpZaY_cQWGI/AAAAAAAADv4/9fu7yuYmMAI/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_HashkiveinuPrayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qiCKpgEwnq4/UpZaY_cQWGI/AAAAAAAADv4/9fu7yuYmMAI/s320/CelestialAlphabet_HashkiveinuPrayer.jpg" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b><blockquote><i>Hash’kiveinu YHVH Eloheinu l’shalom v’ha-amideinu malkeinu l’chayim ufros aleinu sukat sh’lomecha, v’tak’neinu b’eitza tova milfanecha v’hoshi’einu l’ma’an sh’mecha v’hagen ba’adeinu v’haser me’aleinu oyev dever v’cherev v’ra’av v’yagon v’chaser satan milfanenu u’mei’achareinu uv’tzel knafecha tastireinu ki El shomreinu u’matzileinu atah ki El melech chanun v’rachum atah ush’mor tzeiteinu uvo’einu l’chayim ul’shalom mei’atah v’ad olam uf’rosh aleinu sukat shlomecha baruch atah YHVH shomer amo yisra’el la’ad</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b><blockquote>Help us <i>YHVH</i> to lie down in peace, and raise us up, our King, to life. Spread over us the shelter of Your peace; guide us with Your good counsel, and save us for the sake of Your Name, and shield us from foe, pestilence, and from starvation, sword and anguish. Remove the evil forces that surround us, and shelter us in the shadow of Your wings, <i>El</i> who watches over us and delivers us, and <i>El</i> our gracious and merciful King. Guard our coming and our going, to life and to peace from now unto eternity. Blessed are You <i>YHVH</i>, Guardian of Your people Israel forever.</blockquote>Next, after donning clean clothes and prior to falling asleep, one has to address the listed Divine Names with strongly focussed intention (<i>Kavvanah</i>) and in great purity, extend the query to which one is seeking an answer in sleep and dream, saying:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EPkAVTV5zY/UpZa7_vzvwI/AAAAAAAADwA/HLlvmUkRK80/s1600/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EPkAVTV5zY/UpZa7_vzvwI/AAAAAAAADwA/HLlvmUkRK80/s320/CelestialAlphabet_DreamQuestion006.jpg" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:<br />
</b> <blockquote><i>b’vakashah mikem shemot ha-kadoshim v’ha-tehorim shetar’uni b’chalom ba’lailah ha-zeh shehenachti et shmoteichem m’rashoti tshuvat she’elati shehi [.....state the question.....] v’lo ira v’lo afached v’lo yishachach mimeni klum b’shem Argi Nargi Sargi ’gaf N’gaf S’gaf</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>Please I request from you pure and Holy Names, to receive in dream this night, in which I put your names under my head, an answer to my question which is [.....state the question.....] I will have no fear and I will not be scared, and I will not forget anything, in the name <i>Argi Nargi Sargi ’gaf N’gaf S’gaf</i></blockquote>Afterwards write the Divine Names on a kosher scroll, and place it under your pillow, then go to sleep.Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-51748536349907265232013-11-26T22:59:00.000+02:002013-11-26T22:59:46.736+02:00Spirit Forces in Hebrew Amulets - Part 4In the previous instalment of this set of essays on "<em>Spirit Forces in Hebrew Amulets</em>," I referred to the four great archangels, i.e. <em>Rafa'el</em>, <em>Micha'el</em>, <em>Gavri'el</em> and <em>Ori'el</em>. Whilst these specific Spirit Intelligences feature prominently in numerous <em>Kameot</em>, there are often a number of Angelic and Divine Names included in these highly specialised items. In this regard, we have noted in "Part 2" the extensive collection of Angels allied to the "tried and tested <i>Kamea</i> for the protection of pregnant women and infants." In that instance the accompanying Spirit Intelligences are listed at the base of the amulet. However, in many cases a <em>Kamea</em> would be comprised of a bold "letter square" constructed from the initial letters of words in biblical phrases, and which is often accompanied by a set of angelic appellatives located to the left of the square.<br />
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Amongst this variety of Hebrew amulets is one comprised of the Divine Name <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s1600/Ashtzei.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s200/Ashtzei.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ashtzei</i> [also <i>Oshotziyiyi</i>]). This Divine Name construct comprises the five letters respectively succeeding the five occurrences of the Ineffable Name (<i>YHVH</i>) in <i>Psalm 121</i>, i.e. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-THU7cXtM5oI/UpTz-tPgaiI/AAAAAAAADrA/HASW6Pj5olg/s1600/Ashtzei_Ayin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-THU7cXtM5oI/UpTz-tPgaiI/AAAAAAAADrA/HASW6Pj5olg/s200/Ashtzei_Ayin.jpg" /></a> (<em>Ayin</em>) verse 2; <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm2djeuJFWM/UpT0TGBMWSI/AAAAAAAADrI/94GGRW-97U4/s1600/Ashtzei_Shin.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm2djeuJFWM/UpT0TGBMWSI/AAAAAAAADrI/94GGRW-97U4/s200/Ashtzei_Shin.jpg" /></a> (<em>Shin</em>) and <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vkPnrM-lFo/UpT0fMxEndI/AAAAAAAADrQ/6_mdn0JX4gU/s1600/Ashtzei_Tzade.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3vkPnrM-lFo/UpT0fMxEndI/AAAAAAAADrQ/6_mdn0JX4gU/s200/Ashtzei_Tzade.jpg" /></a> (<em>Tzadi</em>) verse 5; and the two letters <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DdNYq9LIgu8/UpT0rCaQIFI/AAAAAAAADrY/b6ghQs-Ndhk/s1600/Ashtzei_Yod.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DdNYq9LIgu8/UpT0rCaQIFI/AAAAAAAADrY/b6ghQs-Ndhk/s200/Ashtzei_Yod.jpg" /></a> <em>(Yod</em>) from verses 7 and 8. The power of this Divine Name is said to be vast and mighty, i.e. subduing "outsiders" (demonic forces); restraining the mouth that curses; etc. There are also five important angels aligned with the five letters of the Name <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s1600/Ashtzei.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s200/Ashtzei.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ashtzei</i>), i.e. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eT6CG1dfryg/UpT1N80FuCI/AAAAAAAADrg/Vk7YQE5MXUY/s1600/Ashtzei_Azriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eT6CG1dfryg/UpT1N80FuCI/AAAAAAAADrg/Vk7YQE5MXUY/s200/Ashtzei_Azriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Azri’el</i>); <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0h_Bw7wPTX4/UpT1kUvyrrI/AAAAAAAADro/rB7YcircXZY/s1600/Ashtzei_Sariel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0h_Bw7wPTX4/UpT1kUvyrrI/AAAAAAAADro/rB7YcircXZY/s200/Ashtzei_Sariel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Sari’el</i>); <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ5S29kcbdg/UpT1vzvK8RI/AAAAAAAADrw/1nKxxPrWgHM/s1600/Ashtzei_Tzadkiel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ5S29kcbdg/UpT1vzvK8RI/AAAAAAAADrw/1nKxxPrWgHM/s200/Ashtzei_Tzadkiel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Tzadki’el</i>); <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_n3TTSn3Sg/UpT17tZiBrI/AAAAAAAADr4/nT6EzZySieQ/s1600/Ashtzei_Yisrael.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_n3TTSn3Sg/UpT17tZiBrI/AAAAAAAADr4/nT6EzZySieQ/s200/Ashtzei_Yisrael.jpg" /></a> (<i>Yisra’el</i>) and <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOkolrh-OEk/UpT2IaI3Q8I/AAAAAAAADsA/v5sjiWfzuOk/s1600/Ashtzei_Yehadriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOkolrh-OEk/UpT2IaI3Q8I/AAAAAAAADsA/v5sjiWfzuOk/s200/Ashtzei_Yehadriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Y’hadri’el</i>).<br />
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We are further told the <i>gematria</i> of <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s1600/Ashtzei.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s200/Ashtzei.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ashtzei</i> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CJfMO2JaJk/UpT285bOKPI/AAAAAAAADsI/jts3n6M8p6g/s1600/Ashtzei_Gematria.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="18" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4CJfMO2JaJk/UpT285bOKPI/AAAAAAAADsI/jts3n6M8p6g/s320/Ashtzei_Gematria.jpg" width="320" /></a>) is equal to that of <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcMtKMVcvQY/UpT3_T6d4xI/AAAAAAAADsY/WMA_dXJ7R7Q/s1600/Ashtzei_Lilit.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcMtKMVcvQY/UpT3_T6d4xI/AAAAAAAADsY/WMA_dXJ7R7Q/s400/Ashtzei_Lilit.jpg" /></a> (<i>Lilit </i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zB4thIuayOU/UpT3WImTR1I/AAAAAAAADsQ/c_GYgC1Vl8E/s1600/Ashtzei_LilitGematria.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="20" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zB4thIuayOU/UpT3WImTR1I/AAAAAAAADsQ/c_GYgC1Vl8E/s320/Ashtzei_LilitGematria.jpg" width="320" /></a>). It is said that the “secret” here is the protection of the “<i>Brit Milah</i>” (Holy Covenant [circumcised penis]) against impurities and spontaneous seminal flow, i.e. nocturnal emissions. Talking of “seminal flow,” I am reminded of the following <i>Kamea</i> in which the Name <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s1600/Ashtzei.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV2redur2Fs/UpTxP_DmWpI/AAAAAAAADqg/SrXFRsq1EFo/s200/Ashtzei.jpg" /></a>, in this instance vocalised <i>Oshotziyiyi</i>, is employed in conjunction with the Divine Name <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fi4CYXIE5Us/UpT8eygc-6I/AAAAAAAADs0/Ygibz0vvTTo/s1600/Ashtzei_Tzamarchad.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fi4CYXIE5Us/UpT8eygc-6I/AAAAAAAADs0/Ygibz0vvTTo/s200/Ashtzei_Tzamarchad.jpg" /></a> (<i>Tzamarchad</i>); <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pw6mrEBLkY8/UpT8xd-PC2I/AAAAAAAADs8/QhN0uqwt4x4/s1600/Ashtzei_TwentyTwoLetterName.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="27" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pw6mrEBLkY8/UpT8xd-PC2I/AAAAAAAADs8/QhN0uqwt4x4/s320/Ashtzei_TwentyTwoLetterName.jpg" width="320" /></a> (<i>Anaktam Pastam Paspasim Dionsim</i> [“Twenty-two Letter Name”]); and <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BXiFHu-Fz-4/UpT9DtrcsZI/AAAAAAAADtE/xQX1ScwCsy4/s1600/Ashtzei_YohachKalach.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BXiFHu-Fz-4/UpT9DtrcsZI/AAAAAAAADtE/xQX1ScwCsy4/s200/Ashtzei_YohachKalach.jpg" /></a> (<i>Yohach Kalach</i>). The Names of twenty angels are added to the mix, meant to support and protect a woman who suffers miscarriages and whose children are dying. The twenty angels listed in alphabetical order in the <i>Kamea</i> are:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LfnhgkyfhJ4/UpT_zb4s53I/AAAAAAAADtU/BRd0VUoSaOw/s1600/Ashtzei_TwentyAngels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LfnhgkyfhJ4/UpT_zb4s53I/AAAAAAAADtU/BRd0VUoSaOw/s320/Ashtzei_TwentyAngels.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b><br />
<blockquote><i>Ori’el Baruchi’el G’dodi’el Dodi’el<br />
</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Hadri’el Vataki’el Zehori’el Chasdi’el</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Tuvi’el Yofi’el K’vodi’el Malchi’el</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Nuri’el Satari’el Azri’el Palati’el</i></blockquote><blockquote><i>Tzadki’el K’doshi’el Rachmi’el Shamri’el</i></blockquote>The amulet is written on deerskin parchment in the name of the individual requiring this support, hence the <i>Kamea</i> opens with her name written at the top of the amulet. Below the name insert the following written incantation:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--19Y7qfiDug/UpUBfOK5EiI/AAAAAAAADtg/e6XLBsP7uvo/s1600/Ashtzei_Adjuration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--19Y7qfiDug/UpUBfOK5EiI/AAAAAAAADtg/e6XLBsP7uvo/s320/Ashtzei_Adjuration.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>Transliteration:</b> <br />
<blockquote><i>Y’hi ratzon milfanecha YHVH Elohai v’Elohei avotai rofe rachman rofe ne’eman rofe chinam ozer kol ne’ezar rofe kol basar v’mafli l’asot sh’tishmor noset kamea zeh aleiha hi v’pri bitnah m’kol nez’kei shedin v’lilin v’ruchin b’ishin v’shivtah u’b’kumah u’v’lechtah u’v’vo’ah v’b’shichbah m’kol mikreh ra omein ken y’hi ratzon</i> (<i>Psalm 91:10</i>) <i>lo t’uneh alecha ra’ah v’nega lo yikrav b’oholecha b’shem LTA RVL YBK MYL LBD AKY PTB RASh VTT KVK BchV AKY ShYV AAB AVA BYShV ATY</i></blockquote><b>Translation:</b><br />
<blockquote>May it be your will<i> YHVH </i>my God, and God of my fathers, merciful healer, loyal healer, gratuitous healer, helper of all who needs aid, healer of all flesh who works wonders, to save the one who is bearing this <i>Kamea</i> on herself and the fruit of her belly from all maleficent <i>shedin</i> (demonic fiends), and <i>lilin</i> (night demons), and <i>ruchin</i> (ghosts), and <i>ishin</i> (evil spirits), when she sits and when she rises, and when she goes and when she comes, from all bad incidents, <i>Amen</i> thus be it so willed. (<i>Psalm 91:10</i>) "There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy tent," in the Name of <i>LTA RVL YBK MYL LBD AKY PTB RASh VTT KVK BchV AKY ShYV AAB AVA BYShV ATY</i> </blockquote>The concluding set of Divine Names was constructed from the initials of the words comprising <i>Psalm 91:10</i>. This set of Divine Names are said to have the power to defeat and eliminate all debilitating hindrances and evil situations.<br />
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Be that as it may, the <i>Kamea</i> is concluded by writing the following letter square, seals, Divine Names and Angelic Names below the incantation:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kntTvlfIyVU/UpUH74Nxv2I/AAAAAAAADtw/cJFCXHJfAyU/s1600/Shorshei_amulet002_Shorshei032b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kntTvlfIyVU/UpUH74Nxv2I/AAAAAAAADtw/cJFCXHJfAyU/s400/Shorshei_amulet002_Shorshei032b.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-86141205196974290122013-11-17T21:57:00.000+02:002013-11-17T21:57:24.067+02:00The Paranormal Skills of the "Mousser Rebbe"<div align="center">
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<span lang="EN-GB">Near the small town of Bodrogkeresztúr, Hungary, on the crest of Dereszla hill and overlooking a sea of vineyards, stands a small building housing the gravesite of Rebbe Yeshaya Steiner. Founder of the Kerestir Chassidic dynasty, Rabbi Steiner is also acknowledged as a "wonder worker," i.e. a "practical kabbalist." This very humble Hungarian Rabbi was born in Zbarav in 1851, and always referred to himself as "<em>Shayale</em>." The appellative stuck and to this day the good Rabbi is similarly referred to by those who remember him with great affection. Yet, whilst he may have considered himself in the diminutive, Reb Shayale was a very remarkable individual who was gifted with great "wonder working" skills.<br />
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One report has it that a certain Yechezkel Taub consulted the Rebbe about the scarcity of fish in the nearby River Bodrog, especially since this was negatively impacting the lives of those who were making a living from fishing. We are told that the good Rabbi informed his visitor not to fear, and that there will be lots of fish the following day. The next day there were indeed lots of fish in the nets. We shall never know whether the Rabbi personally affected the sudden increase of fish, or merely displayed remarkable oracular skills.<br />
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However, Reb Shayale’s current fame is not based on perceived "paranormal skills," or on the fact that he is the founder of an important Chassidic dynasty, but rather on a single photo of himself which is currently popularly hung on the walls of private homes as an amulet against vermin, i.e. mice and rats.<span lang="EN"> Called the "mousser rebbe," it is reported that an individual who earned his living supplying food to his local community, </span><span lang="EN-GB">was seeking the urgent advice of the Rabbi regarding an infestation of mice wreaking havoc in his granary, and destroying other foodstuffs in his warehouse.</span><br />
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There is a "twist" in the tale, which, according to some reports, pertains to the local pastor of the town, or, according to others, a local nobleman. Apparently this individual was particularly harsh and unkind to the local Jewish community, hence it is said Rabbi Steiner told his visitor to return to his warehouse where he was to order the vermin in the name of Reb Shayale to depart to the estate of the pastor/nobleman. The saga concludes with the mice racing away, and the Jewish businessman being spared further destruction of food commodities by vermin.</span><span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6u1Lqz8y8Fo/Uoj544hXO-I/AAAAAAAADp0/UKFjEyETT5M/s1600/Steiner_001.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6u1Lqz8y8Fo/Uoj544hXO-I/AAAAAAAADp0/UKFjEyETT5M/s320/Steiner_001.bmp" width="258" /></a></span></div>
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It is said that since this episode people have employed the photo of the Rabbi as an amulet to ward off mice and rats. It seems to work for some and not for others, and in this regard there have been a number of interesting, some quite amusing, reports doing the rounds on the world wide web. One individual mentioned that a friend had difficulties with rats on a boat, which ceased after he displayed on board a photo of Reb Steiner. Another tells of how he tried to rid his apartment of a pesky mouse, by running after it with the picture of Reb Shayale. In this instance the mouse won the day and stayed put.<br />
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Now, I believe everybody missed the boat as far as their faith in the Kerestirer Rabbi’s photo is concerned. In fact, the good Rabbi wrote amulets to rid a residence/warehouse of vermin. A pair of <i>Kameot</i> composed by Reb Steiner for this very purpose was displayed in an exhibition held in the Bible Lands Museum, Jerusalem, and they were simply variants of the following "house <i>Kamea</i>" addressed by Yehudah Rosenberg in "<em>Sefer Rafael ha-Malach</em>":</span><br />
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Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-58267517369295430082013-11-13T10:22:00.005+02:002014-04-17T23:13:55.650+02:00Four Great Archangels, Four Winds & Four ElementsEvery now and again I receive queries regarding the "Four Great Archangels" and their links with the "Four Directions." The latter is often termed the "Four Winds" (<em>Ruchot</em>) in Jewish Mysticism. The main problem appears to be the differences between the attributions found in Judaism and those generally employed in Hermetic Kabbalah. In the latter tradition the attributions are:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>Rafael</em> — East — Air; <em>Michael</em> — South — Fire; <em>Gabriel</em> — West — Water; and <em>Oriel</em> [<em>Auriel</em>] — North — Earth.</blockquote>I addressed this topic somewhat in "<em>The Book of Self Creation</em>," saying:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">"In <i>Kabbalah</i> the 'Four Elements' have been attributed to the four letters of the Ineffable Name, four Archangels, four <i>Sefirot</i>, four directions, the four seasons, the four phases of the Moon, etc., etc. However, attempting <span lang="EN">to find a uniform set of attributions from primary Kabbalistic literature is extremely difficult, since there have been major differences of opinion in this regard. In fact, nowhere does the statement 'there is only one thing Kabbalists agreed upon and that is that they don’t agree,' apply more accurately than in this instance.</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span lang="EN">In many instances authors were dealing with the topic from a single perspective alone, without consideration of any 'broader implications,' so to speak. As a case in point, consider the traditional bedtime prayer (<em>Kriat Sh’ma al ha-Mitah</em>) from the <i>Siddur</i> (Hebrew prayer book). Here we find the invocation 'To my right <em>Michael</em> and to my left <em>Gavriel</em>, in front of me <em>Uriel</em> and behind me <em>Rafael</em>, and above my head <em>Shechinat El</em>.' This portion of the evening prayer is claimed to be based on <em>Midrash Bamidbar Rabba 2:10</em> and the <em>Pirke d’Rabbi Eliezer 4:1</em>.</span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">Now, in this night-time prayer the four archangels are aligned with the 'position of service' each archangel held around the 'Throne of Glory' in early Jewish mysticism, e.g. as depicted in the large merkavistic portion of the <em>Pirke d’Rabbi Eliezer</em>, where we read (4:1) 'Four classes of ministering angels minister and utter praise before the Holy One, blessed be He: the first camp (led by) <em>Michael</em> on His right, the second camp (led by) <em>Gavriel</em> on His left, the third camp (led by) <em>Uriel</em> before Him, and the fourth camp (led by) <em>Rafael</em> behind Him; and the <em>Shechinah</em> of the Holy One, blessed be He, is in the centre.'</blockquote><span lang="EN-GB"></span><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span lang="EN-GB">Here it is clear that <em>Michael</em> is in attendance to the right of the 'Throne of Glory,' hence is guarding our right; <em>Gabriel</em> to the left, thus guarding our left; <em>Uriel </em>[<em>Auriel</em>] to the front, and guarding our front; and lastly <em>Rafael,</em> positioned behind the 'Throne of Glory,' is protecting our rear. Keep in mind these attributions were made in very early <em>Midrashim</em> some centuries prior to the appearance of the <em>Sefer ha-Zohar</em>, and long before the Tree of Life was fully formulated in its current order.</span></blockquote><blockquote>If one is facing East while uttering this bedtime invocation, the positions of the four Archangels would naturally be <em>Michael</em> in the South, <em>Gabriel</em> in the North, <em>Uriel</em> in the East and <em>Rafael</em> in the West, and this set of attributions is in fact maintained in some Kabbalistic writings. However, inspecting the positions of the archangels in <i>Midrash Bamidbar Rabba </i>(2:10), considered one of the sources of the bedtime protection invocation, the entire issue gets quite confusing. Scrutinising the 'four directions,' which the four archangels are respectively said to be associated with in this verse, suggests that those who originally listed the positions of these 'spirit entities' around the 'Throne of Glory,' did not have specific directions in mind, i.e. East, West, etc., when they listed the positions of the archangels around the 'Throne of Glory.' Such directional attributions appear to have been added somewhat later, and are simply not reconcilable with the associated celestial positions of the four archangels.<br />
</blockquote><blockquote>Of course, problems inevitably arise when one attempts to broaden the application of a set of attributions initially employed in a singular manner, unrelated to any broader perspectives. Regarding this issue we read in <em>Midrash Bamidbar Rabbah 2:10</em> 'As the Holy One blessed be He created four winds (directions) and four banners (for Israel’s army), so also did He make four angels to surround His Throne — <em>Michael</em>, <em>Gabriel</em>, <em>Uriel</em> and <em>Rafael</em>. <em>Michael</em> is on its right, corresponding to the tribe of Reuben; <em>Uriel</em> on its left, corresponding to the tribe of Dan, which was located in the north; <em>Gabriel</em> in front, corresponding to the tribe of Judah as well as Moses and Aaron who were in the east; and <em>Rafael</em> in the rear, corresponding to the tribe of Ephraim which was in the west.'</blockquote><span lang="EN-GB"> </span><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span lang="EN-GB">Here the archangels are attributed to the directions in the following order, and despite alternatives listed elsewhere, this order became generally accepted:</span></blockquote><span lang="EN-GB"> <blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>Michael</em> to the South; <em>U</em><span lang="EN"><span lang="EN"><em>riel </em>[<em>Auriel</em>] to the North; </span></span><span lang="EN"><i>Gavriel</i> to the East; </span><span lang="EN"><i>Rafael</i> to the West.</span></blockquote><div><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span lang="EN">Consider that according to the bedtime prayer, <em>Michael</em> is to my right, and we are told in the <i>Midrash</i> that he is associated with the 'South'.....so I must be facing East, which I am! However, <em>Gavriel</em>, located to my left according to the same sources, is associated with the East....which is in front of me? Worse still, <em>Uriel </em>is supposedly in front of me but, hold on to your seat, if I am facing East—because <i>Michael</i> is on my right, and <i>Gavriel</i> is associated with the East, which is somehow supposed to be to my left—how in blazes can <em>Uriel </em>be in front of me when he is associated with the North? Even <em>Rafael </em>appears to be oddly placed. Also, if I keep <i>Michael</i>, the archangel associated with the South, to my right, i.e. as if I were facing the 'Throne of Glory' myself, I would be looking in the direction of <em>Rafael </em>who is positioned 'behind the Throne'.....that would be East.....but this archangel is associated with the West? If the traditional bedtime invocation was aligned with this arrangement of their respective positions, it should read 'To my right <em>Michael</em> and to my left <em>Uriel</em>, in front of me <em>Gavriel</em> and behind me <em>Rafael</em>.' Keep in mind that there are other variations to this Angels/Directions theme, e.g. South – <em>Uriel</em>; North – <em>Gavriel</em>; East – <em>Michael</em>; West – <em>Rafael</em>; or again South – <em>Michael</em>; North – <em>Uriel</em>; East – <em>Gavriel</em>; West – <em>Rafael</em>. There is simply no general agreement on this topic to be found throughout the primary texts of <i>Traditional Kabbalah</i>.</span></blockquote></div><blockquote class="tr_bq">It is worth noting that much of the early 'angel teachings' in both Judaism and Christianity, were derived from Zoroastrianism. In this regard, it is recognised that the archangelic protection portion of the bedtime prayer was derived from the ancient Babylonian incantation which reads '<em>Shamash</em> before me, behind me <em>Sin</em>, <em>Nergal</em> at my right, <em>Ninib</em> at my left'.</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"> Now, considering this subject and related issues, we should also peruse the attributions made of the mentioned four archangels to the 'Four Elements.' In the <i>Sh’lah al Sefer Vayik’ra</i> by Yeshayahu ben Avraham we are told that '<em>Micha’el</em> is the base source of Spirit Water, <em>Gavri’el</em> of Spirit Fire, <em>Auri’el</em> of Spirit Air, <em>Rafa’el</em> of Spirit Earth.' These attributions are based on teachings found in Kabbalistic literature in which the archangel <em>Michael </em>is attributed to the <em>Sefirah</em> <em>Chesed </em>(Mercy), <em>Gavriel</em> to <em>Gevurah </em>(Severity), <em>Uriel</em> to <em>Tiferet </em>(Beauty), and <em>Rafael </em>to <em>Yesod </em>(Foundation). In this case, <em>Chesed</em>, attributed to 'Spirit Water,' is the domain of <em>Michael</em>, while <em>Gevurah</em>, the domain of 'Spirit Fire,' belongs to <em>Gavriel</em>. In turn, the sphere of <em>Tiferet</em>, being the balancing central <em>Sefirah</em> between <em>Chesed</em> and <em>Gevurah</em>, is attributed the 'Spirit Air' and <em>Uriel</em>, this being aligned with the statement in the <em>Sefer Yetzirah</em> about 'Air tipping the scale' between 'Fire' and 'Water.' Finally, in this instance, <em>Yesod </em>is attributed to <em>Rafael</em> and 'Spirit Earth.'</blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"> As we know well enough by now, these attributions are by no means universally accepted amongst Kabbalists, and there are again numerous variant attributions of these four, as well as other archangels, to the ten <em>Sefirot</em>. Some of these attributions are decidedly odd, but they are always in accordance with specific mind-sets. Here are a few examples of attributions of the four archangels to the <em>sefirot</em> to be found in traditional Kabbalistic literature: </blockquote><ol><li><em>Michael</em> – <em>Binah</em>; <em>Chesed</em>; <em>Tiferet</em>; <em>Hod</em>; <em>Yesod</em>;</li>
<li><em>Gavriel</em> – <em>Binah</em>; <em>Gevurah</em>; <em>Netzach</em>; <em>Yesod</em>;</li>
<li><em>Rafael</em> – <em>Tiferet</em>; <em>Hod</em>; <em>Yesod</em>; and</li>
<li><em>Uriel</em> (<i>Auriel</i>) – <em>Tiferet</em>; <em>Netzach</em>; <em>Yesod.</em></li>
</ol><blockquote class="tr_bq">It gets even more befuddled when we investigate the related planetary and zodiacal attributions. We can be certain that it took a lot of careful investigation and consideration of all the details involved, including a study of related material, i.e. the writings of Averoes and the literature of ancient astrology, in order to arrive at the neat, coherent and efficient systems used in the Hermetic Orders."</blockquote><span lang="EN">Following the publication of "<em>The</em> <em>Book of Self Creation</em>" I have encountered further details and variants, one of these, listed in "<em>Me’irat Einayim</em>" by the 13th century <span lang="EN-GB">Rabbi Isaac of Akko, offered the following angelic/directions arrangement: North – <em>Rafael</em>; South – <em>Uriel</em>; West – <em>Gavriel</em>; and East – <em>Michael</em>. I have included these details in my "<em>The Book of Seals & Amulets</em>." As it is, I have found further information on this very topic in the </span></span><span lang="EN">many Hebrew <em>Kameot</em> (amulets) written over the last millennium, i.e. those in which the Names of the four "Archangels of the Quarters" are employed. To date I have noted the following combinations in primary Hebrew sources:</span><br />
<ul><li>South – <em>Michael</em>; North – <em>Gavriel</em>; East – <em>Uriel</em>; West – <em>Rafael</em>.</li>
<li><span lang="EN">South – <em>Michael</em>; North – <em>Uriel</em>; East – <em>Gavriel</em>; West – <em>Rafael</em>.</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN">South – <em>Michael</em>; North – <em>Gavriel</em>; East – <em>Rafael</em>; West – <em>Uriel</em>.</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN-GB"><span lang="EN-GB"><span lang="EN-GB"><span lang="EN"><span lang="EN"><span lang="EN"><span lang="EN">South – <em>Uriel</em>, North – <em>Gavriel</em>; East – <em>Rafael</em>; West – <em>Michael</em>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span lang="EN">South – <em>Uriel</em>; North – <em>Gavriel</em>; East – <em>Michael</em>; West – <em>Rafael</em>.</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN">South – <em>Uriel</em>; North – <em>Rafael</em>; East – <em>Michael</em>; West – <em>Gavriel.</em></span></li>
</ul> </span><span lang="EN"><span lang="EN">As can be expected, I have neither accessed nor perused every primary Hebrew source dealing with this topic, and can thus not provide an absolutely definitive statement on this topic. There might well be further variants as far as the archangel/directions/elements/ <em>sefirot </em>associations are concerned. In this regard I have recently begun investigating a number of East European Hebrew/Yiddish sources in which this topic is addressed, which I pray will afford me greater clarity.</span></span><span lang="EN"></span>Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2585815319811704052.post-41592504713153423252013-11-09T20:56:00.000+02:002013-11-09T20:59:16.603+02:00Spirit Forces in Hebrew Amulets - Part 3In the previous part we noted the three Angels <em>Sanoi</em>, <i>Sansanoi</i> and <em>Semangelof</em> were sent to restrain and return the demoness <i>Lilit</i>. We are informed that she requested to be left alone, and pledged that wherever she encounters the listed names and images of the three Spirit Intelligences, she would refrain from working her wicked ways. However, whilst the presence of these three Spirit Intelligences are considered vital in the protection of would-be mothers and their offspring against demonic forces, an inordinate number of angelic names were, are often roped in, so to speak, for additional support.<br />
Amongst the latter the angels <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6hou5MlEW70/Un1XE7AWC8I/AAAAAAAADnQ/M4NtTWRSXGM/s1600/Angels_Michael.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6hou5MlEW70/Un1XE7AWC8I/AAAAAAAADnQ/M4NtTWRSXGM/s320/Angels_Michael.jpg" /></a> (<i>Micha’el</i>), <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eic28K3N9gw/Un1Xpo_qaMI/AAAAAAAADnY/TDQ8ZIVa7dg/s1600/Angels_Gavriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eic28K3N9gw/Un1Xpo_qaMI/AAAAAAAADnY/TDQ8ZIVa7dg/s320/Angels_Gavriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Gavri’el</i>), <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAlu7CpaEAM/Un1X734Tq9I/AAAAAAAADng/AVo1xCvlce0/s1600/Angels_Rafael.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAlu7CpaEAM/Un1X734Tq9I/AAAAAAAADng/AVo1xCvlce0/s320/Angels_Rafael.jpg" /></a> (<i>Rafa’el</i>), <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUUdugx4zvQ/Un1YjatvoAI/AAAAAAAADno/OdoFt7MmUHA/s1600/Angels_Oriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUUdugx4zvQ/Un1YjatvoAI/AAAAAAAADno/OdoFt7MmUHA/s320/Angels_Oriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Auriel</i> [<i>Ori’el</i>]), as well as the angel <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tdf0HdGi_ks/Un1Yt-XHWBI/AAAAAAAADnw/7DTNfB7eCWw/s1600/Angels_Nuriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tdf0HdGi_ks/Un1Yt-XHWBI/AAAAAAAADnw/7DTNfB7eCWw/s320/Angels_Nuriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Nuri’el</i>), should be acknowledged as the "Supreme Five." Collectively termed <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF1KC_C4wx0/Un1ZLbeOogI/AAAAAAAADoE/RcccJKeKfy4/s1600/Argaman.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF1KC_C4wx0/Un1ZLbeOogI/AAAAAAAADoE/RcccJKeKfy4/s320/Argaman.jpg" /></a> (<i>Argaman</i>), an acronym constructed from the initials of the names of these five angels, the unique status of these Spirit Intelligences is highlighted in the teaching regarding the time of the "Redemption," when it is said the five angels of <i>Malchut</i> (Kingdom) will connect the head—<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pvTjZMCVWm8/Un1ZewY8pnI/AAAAAAAADoM/P7aeis0RSM8/s1600/IneffableName.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pvTjZMCVWm8/Un1ZewY8pnI/AAAAAAAADoM/P7aeis0RSM8/s320/IneffableName.jpg" /></a> (<i>YHVH</i><span lang="EN">) and </span><i>Malchut</i>—<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rafskotXr9k/Un1aZx0CT0I/AAAAAAAADoY/Jw_93xIdWqQ/s1600/Adonai.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rafskotXr9k/Un1aZx0CT0I/AAAAAAAADoY/Jw_93xIdWqQ/s320/Adonai.jpg" /></a> (<i>ADNY</i> [<i>Adonai</i>]) as <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aI7TXhefBUM/Un1aiZPfTII/AAAAAAAADog/yG7RkPnua7E/s1600/Yahadonai.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aI7TXhefBUM/Un1aiZPfTII/AAAAAAAADog/yG7RkPnua7E/s320/Yahadonai.jpg" /></a> (<i>Yahadonahi</i>).<br />
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We are further reminded the <i>gematria</i> of <em>Yahadonahi</em>:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JnntiLgZR8Y/Un1d6EK1PZI/AAAAAAAADow/UswzRGunXOw/s1600/Yahadonai_Gematria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="17" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JnntiLgZR8Y/Un1d6EK1PZI/AAAAAAAADow/UswzRGunXOw/s400/Yahadonai_Gematria.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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is equal to that of the word <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJunXMUjo1Y/Un1eWqoDYrI/AAAAAAAADo4/QvRgdfGL9IM/s1600/Amen.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tJunXMUjo1Y/Un1eWqoDYrI/AAAAAAAADo4/QvRgdfGL9IM/s320/Amen.jpg" /></a> (<i>Amen</i>):<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVci_qrg9qA/Un1fh2osa2I/AAAAAAAADpI/_SQpslUTmN8/s1600/Amen_Gematria.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="19" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eVci_qrg9qA/Un1fh2osa2I/AAAAAAAADpI/_SQpslUTmN8/s200/Amen_Gematria.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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The "secret" of <i>Amen</i> is said to be its spelling, i.e. comprising the initials of the first and last two of the angels of the five <i>Argaman</i> angels. Considering the great importance of the "Supreme Five," it is no wonder the said acronym should feature so prominently in Hebrew amulets. In this regard, we are informed that the mentioned five Angels, "together with the mnemonic <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF1KC_C4wx0/Un1ZLbeOogI/AAAAAAAADoE/RcccJKeKfy4/s1600/Argaman.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF1KC_C4wx0/Un1ZLbeOogI/AAAAAAAADoE/RcccJKeKfy4/s320/Argaman.jpg" /></a> (<i>Argaman</i>) are by far the commonest found in the metallic amulets from the Oriental Hasidic diaspora." [<b>Schrire, T.:</b> <i>Hebrew Amulets</i>, Routledge & Kegan Paul, London 1966.] However, it is worth noting that the first (<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUUdugx4zvQ/Un1YjatvoAI/AAAAAAAADno/OdoFt7MmUHA/s1600/Angels_Oriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUUdugx4zvQ/Un1YjatvoAI/AAAAAAAADno/OdoFt7MmUHA/s320/Angels_Oriel.jpg" /></a>—<i>Ori’el</i>) and the last (<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tdf0HdGi_ks/Un1Yt-XHWBI/AAAAAAAADnw/7DTNfB7eCWw/s1600/Angels_Nuriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tdf0HdGi_ks/Un1Yt-XHWBI/AAAAAAAADnw/7DTNfB7eCWw/s320/Angels_Nuriel.jpg" /></a>—<i>Nuri’el</i>) of the five angels, were understood to be different appellatives, each perhaps referring to a different aspect, of the same Spirit Intelligence. Hence there are really four Angelic Princes said to be "the honoured ones, who are appointed over the four camps of the Shekina." Considering the services rendered by these four great angelic "Presences," it is only natural that their names should feature in Hebrew amulets ranging from those affording good fortune to those engendering health, wealth and protection.<br />
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Ancient sources tells us the angel <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAlu7CpaEAM/Un1X734Tq9I/AAAAAAAADng/AVo1xCvlce0/s1600/Angels_Rafael.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jAlu7CpaEAM/Un1X734Tq9I/AAAAAAAADng/AVo1xCvlce0/s320/Angels_Rafael.jpg" /></a> (<i>Rafa’el</i>) "is set over all the diseases and all the wounds of the children of men," whilst <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6hou5MlEW70/Un1XE7AWC8I/AAAAAAAADnQ/M4NtTWRSXGM/s1600/Angels_Michael.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6hou5MlEW70/Un1XE7AWC8I/AAAAAAAADnQ/M4NtTWRSXGM/s320/Angels_Michael.jpg" /></a> (<i>Micha’el</i>), "the merciful and long-suffering," is "set over the best part of mankind and over chaos." He is the champion of Israel, and slayer of evil. We are told the archangel <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eic28K3N9gw/Un1Xpo_qaMI/AAAAAAAADnY/TDQ8ZIVa7dg/s1600/Angels_Gavriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eic28K3N9gw/Un1Xpo_qaMI/AAAAAAAADnY/TDQ8ZIVa7dg/s320/Angels_Gavriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Gavri’el</i>) "is set over all the powers," hence it is maintained that this Spirit Intelligence grants one the power to break down walls. Regarding <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUUdugx4zvQ/Un1YjatvoAI/AAAAAAAADno/OdoFt7MmUHA/s1600/Angels_Oriel.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUUdugx4zvQ/Un1YjatvoAI/AAAAAAAADno/OdoFt7MmUHA/s320/Angels_Oriel.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ori’el</i> [<i>Uri’el</i>]), we are informed that this angel "is over the world and over Tartarus." It is said the name of this archangel pertains directly to the phrase in <i>Exodus 33:23</i> reading <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SowMyvXpMYU/Un6BuiNoygI/AAAAAAAADpY/VcEjCoBBXVU/s1600/Exodus23_33.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SowMyvXpMYU/Un6BuiNoygI/AAAAAAAADpY/VcEjCoBBXVU/s320/Exodus23_33.jpg" /></a> (<i>Ufanai lo yera’u</i>—"but My face shall not be seen").<br />
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<strong>(More to follow)</strong></div>
Jacobus G. Swarthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813816143506526042noreply@blogger.com2