Magick in Theory and Practice (Section 1)

To take a simple example, suppose that, in an Evocation of Bartzabel, the planet Mars, whose sphere is Geburah (Severity) were situated (actually, in the heavens) opposite to the Square of Chesed (Mercy) of the Tau in the Circle, and the triangle placed accordingly. It would be improper for the Magus to stand on that Square unless using this formula, “I, frora Chesed, rule Geburah through the Path of the Lion”; while — taking an extreme case -— to stand on the square of Hod (which is naturally dominated by Geburah) would be a madness which only a formula of the very highest Magick could counteract. Certain positions, however, such as Tiphareth *, are so sympa- thetic to the Magus himself that he may use them without reference to the nature of the spirit, or of the operation; unless he requires an exceptionally précisé spirit free of ail extraneous éléments, or one whose nature is difficultly compatible with Tiphareth. To show how these positions may be used in conjunction with the spirals, suppose that you are invoking Hathor, Goddess of Love, to descend upon the Altar. Standing on the square of Netzach you will make your invocation to Her, and then dance an inward spiral deosil ending at the foot of the altar, where you sink on your knees with your arms raised above the altar as if inviting Her embrace.1 2 3 * To conclude, one may add that natural artistic ability, if you possess it, forms an excellent guide. Ail Art is Magiek. Isadora Duncan has this gift of gesture in a very high degree. Let the reader study her dancing; if possible rather in private then in public, and learn the superb “unconsciousness” — which is magical consciousness — with which she suits the action to the melody.8 T There is no more potent means than Art of calling forth true Gods to visible appearance. 1. Tiphareth is hardly “dominated” even by Kether. It is the son rather than the servant. 2. But not “in supplication”. 3. This passage was written in 1911 e. v. “Wake Duncan with thy Knocking? I would thou couldst!” 82 —