num_pages: 448
description: A comprehensive handbook of more than 1000 magical words phrases symbols and secret alphabets Explains the origins derivatives and practical usage of each word phrase and spell as well as how they can be combined for custom spells Based on the magical traditions of Europe Greece and Egypt and recently discovered one-of-a-kind grimoires from Scandinavia France and Germany Includes an in-depth exploration of secret magical alphabets including those based on Hebrew letters Kabbalistic symbols astrological signs and runesFrom Abracadabra to the now famous spells of the Harry Potter series magic words are no longer confined to the practices of pagans alchemists witches and occultists. They have become part of the popular imagination of the Western world. Passed down from ancient Babylon Egypt and Greece these words and the rituals surrounding them have survived through the millennia because they work. And as scholar Claude Lecouteux reveals often the more impenetrable they seem the more effective they are.Analyzing more than 7000 spells from the magical traditions of Europe as well as the magical papyri of the Greeks and recently discovered one-of-a-kind grimoires from Scandinavia France and Germany Lecouteux has compiled a comprehensive dictionary of ancient magic words phrases and spells along with an in-depth exploration--the first in English--of secret magical alphabets including those based on Hebrew letters Kabbalistic symbols astrological signs and runes. Drawing upon thousands of medieval accounts and famous manuscripts such as the Heptameron of Peter Abano the author examines the origins of each word or spell offering detailed instructions on their successful use whether for protection love wealth or healing. He charts their evolution and derivations through the centuries showing for example how spells that were once intended to put out fires evolved to protect people from witchcraft. He reveals the inherent versatility of magic words and how each sorcerer or witch had a set of stock phrases they would combine to build a custom spell for the magical need at hand.Presenting a wealth of material on magical words signs and charms both common and obscure Lecouteux also explores the magical words and spells of ancient Scandinavia the Hispano-Arabic magic of Spain before the Reconquista the traditions passed down from ancient Egypt and those that have stayed in use until the present day.
language: English
title: Dictionary of Ancient Magic Words and Spells: From Abraxas to Zoar
publisher: Inner Traditions