Magick in Theory and Practice (Section 1)

must not rely upon the false analogy of the Xylenes to rebut this argument. It is quite true that geometrical isomers act in différent manners towards the substances to which they are brought into relation. And it is of course necessary sometimes to rearrange the éléments of a molécule before that molécule can form either the masculine or the féminine element in a true Magical combination with some other molécule. It is therefore occasionally inévitable for a Magician to re- organize the structure of certain éléments before proceeding to his operation proper. Although such work is technically witch- craft, it must not be regarded as undesirable on that ground, for ail operations which do not transmute matter fall strictly speaking under this heading. The real objection to this formula is not inhérent in its own nature. Witchcraft consists in treating it as the exclusive préoc¬ cupation of Magick, and especially in denying to the Holy Spirit his right to indwell His Temple.1 I. The initiate of the XI0 of O. T. O. will remark that there is a totaliy different formula of ALIM, complementary with that here discussed. 8l may be regarded as a number of Yesod rather than of Luna. The actual meaning of the word may be taken as indicating the formula. Aleph may be referred to Harpocrates, with allusion to the well-known poem of Catullus. Lamed may imply the exaltation of Saturn, and suggest the Three of Swords in a particular manner. Yod will then recall Hermes, and Mem the Hanged Man. We hâve thus a Tetragrammaton which contains no féminine component. The initial Force is here the Holy Spirit and its vehicle or weapon the “Sword and Balances . Justice is then done upon the Mercurial “Virgin”, with the resuit that the Man is “Hanged” or extended, and is slain in this manner. Such an operation makes création impossible — as in the former case; but here there is no question of re-arrangement; the Creative force is employed deliberately for destruction, and is entirely absorbed in its own sphere (or cylinder, on Einstein’s équations) of action. This Work is to be regarded as Holiness to the Lord”. The Hebrews, in fact, conferred the title of Qadosh (holy) upon its adepts. Its effect is to consecrate the Magicians who perforai it in a very spécial wav. We may take note also of the correspond¬ ance of Nine with Teth, XI, Léo, and the Serpent. The great merits of this formula are that it avoids contact with the inferior planes, that it is self-sufhcient, that it involves no responsibilities, and that it leaves its masters not only stronger in themselves, but wholly free to fulfil their essential Natures. Its abuse is an abomination. 27