Amulets & Talismans by
Le Païen Sage,
The Wise Pagan

Amulets and Talismans have been with us since the dawn of humankind, literally millions of years. Today they are used in increasing numbers, even by those who refuse to acknowledge them. Our belief and use of Amulets and Talismans would not likely have survived for such an incredibly long time if they didn't work.

The words Amulet and Talisman are often used interchangeably, but they are different. Amulets are universally used to provide their owner protection. Today we wear them as jewelry; however, they can be made from almost anything.

Perhaps the most recognizable Amulets are those from ancient Egypt; the Ankh and the Ujdat. The Talisman is carefully designed to provide its owner specific benefits, which can include protection. Again, they can be made of various materials. However, the most powerful talismans are made of metals and made by its owner. This is difficult to do for most of us. So they can be acquired and then "charged" with entent by its owner.

A powerful Talisman would be inscribed with astrology and metaphysical symbols that would empower the object. This Talisman is inscribed with the Seal of Great Prosperity. It has been carefully recreated from ancient sources such as The Greater Key of Solomon and The order of the Golden Dawn. They have been chosen based on their ability to invoke only the blessings of good spirits and to do good works. The forces invoked by this Talisman are thought to be planetary or elemental forces; sometimes called angels, or spirits.

  As we've said, Amulets and Talismans have been around since pre-history. They worked then and they work today. Why? The talisman is usually cut from or engraved with characters and/or symbols from a particular belief/system. Most often they represent the astrological or planetary influences. By far the most popular are derived from that period when the craft was at its height, the Middle Ages. From the ancient Shamanic World Tree to the astral planes to the modern view of the mind and its levels of consciousness (and we can include the new alternate realities of quantum physics), symbols and words are power. They are a bridge to forces outside of us and embedded deep within us all. Regardless of your particular belief system, be it based in Shamanism, Magic (High, Low or Elemental), Eastern Mystic or Western Metaphysical, the Abrahamic religions, or the alternatives of Mind, Body, Spirit (this is not an all inclusive list), they work because we believe. Your believing is indeed a force, personal energy and power.

How does this work? You charge the talisman with your belief, your energy. The word Talisman is a derivative of the Greek telesma, meaning consecration. Consecration is the solemn dedication to a purpose by ceremonies or rites. It is the strength and focus of the energy (the committed belief) of the owner who is consecrating their talisman that charges it with the powers called for by its inscribed characters and symbols.

So, the why it works is described in the system by which it is crafted. The how is in you.

  The ankh is the Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol for "life". It is most frequently depicted among ancient Egyptian artifacts, adorning the goddess, gods, Queens and Pharaohs, its origins are unknown. Based on the earliest of beliefs, current theory speculates that the upper circle represents the female (vulva) and lower T shape represents the male (penis and testicles). There are variations on this theme, but all suggest that the ankh represents the female and male joining that produces life. It was very popular with the ancient Egyptians and used as a powerful amulet for life, health, and fertility.

Another very popular symbol, frequently found among ancient Egyptian artifacts, is the Ujdat or the Eye of Horus. Also referred to as the Eye of Ra. Horus is the falcon headed sun-god, therefore the Ujdat was designed to resemble the eye of a falcon. The Ujdat was believed to ward of sickness, to have healing and protective power, and used as a protective amulet.

  Once you select your Amulet or Talisman, or receive it as a gift, you'll want to make it your own and cleanse it of any prior attachments or negative energy. There are varying methods used to purify and consecrate your spiritual items. Suggested here is a very casual but appropriate Purification and Consecration Ritual for Amulets, Talismans and Gemstones. Those of you who may not have developed your own spells and rituals may find this helpful.

  The Greater Key of Solomon is a book of magic (grimoire) produced by King Solomon. It is comprised of seven manuscripts currently preserved in the British Museum. They are considered to be the fountainhead and storehouse of Kabalistic Magic and the origin of much of the ceremonial magic of medieval times. Our talismanic designs are taken directly from the "Key of Solomon" or from the later magical grimoires influenced by it. Solomon received his knowledge directly from "Homadiel" the angel of God who granted Solomon ineffable wisdom. The Order of the Golden Dawn was founded in 1887 and included some of the most talented personalities of occult science. It is perhaps one of the most influential orders because of it dedication and mission of preservation, education and teaching of the ancient crafts. Their credibility and influence continues to attract individuals around the world who want deeper understanding of the ancient mysteries, and of themselves.