The Witches Alphabet
A look at magickal alphabets and cyphers
The “Witches Alphabet”
So, before we dig a little deeper, we need to challenge a few ideas about Witches and so-called Witches Alphabets.
Medieval Wicthes were, for the most part, nothing like the Witches who practice The Craft or Wicca today. Even if there had been some hereditary teachings passed down from some medieval ancestor, the context of the magical practices will have changed, Indeed, it could be argued that “traditional practitioners” were the keepers of folk and nature wisdom and were more likely to be called “wise-women” or “wise-men”; “healers” or “soothsayers”. Sometimes called “cunning folk”, these people worked with their knowledge of herbs, medicinal potions, divination and healing. They were not part of an organised religion but were the keepers of traditional wisdom. In Europe, they will have been introduced to Christian ideology. The prevailing religious movements would have influenced their practice in other parts of the world.
The Witch Trials of the 1600s had nothing to do with the “witches ’in movies, fantasy novels and modern Wicca texts. They were a hysterical reaction to economic and social conditions. Specifically, the Christian Church, which wanted to stamp the authority of their sacred texts and the population who believed that Satan could bring doom, gloom and disaster to their communities. Indeed, the earliest examples of the Church involving itself in Inquisitions was when they were putting their clergy on trial for practicing '“magic”.
Of course, there were local traditions and practices which the Church deemed as “pagan” but I would suggest the folks practicing them did not consider themselves as belonging to an organised ‘Witch-Religion”.
Apologies for going on a bit in the introduction, but the point I am trying to make is that the Witches of medieval times were nothing like the Witches of today. Mostly, they were “cunning folk” and, in many cases, illiterate. So why would they need an alphabet?
What I believe was happening was that certain symbols were seen as possessing magical properties by those practicing “academic” magic, and they were then borrowed and incorporated into folklore and tradition,
At the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle, Cornwall, you can find examples of charms created by cunning folk which contain a rich vocabulary of symbols, many of which can be found in the Grimoires created by practitioners like Cornelius Aggippa and John Dee. I find it doubtful that the pellars, healers and cunning folk of Cornwall would’ve read these works, but the symbols would have had a resonance and thus would have been used in their work,
In Occult terms, there is a distinction between High Magick and Low Magick. This is not about occult snobbery but a recognition that magick serves different purposes. One could be considered “material” and the other “spiritual”.
Low Magick involves life, love, healing, divination, and the seasons. It also has a strong community service ethic.
High Magick is about the spiritual development of the individual,
So, why a Witches’ Alphabet, if such a thing ever existed?
Cynically, we can view such alphabets as creations of smart marketeers wishing to sell their book or their set of “Witches Runes”. But I think there is a little more to it.
All magick can be said to involve itself with spells and spellwork.
“Casting a Spell”
Has it ever occurred to you that “spelling”, in terms of language, could be closely related to casting a spell?
Words are vehicles for the transmission of ideas.
I am weaving a spell right now and hoping that in some future, when these words are shared, they might foster insight and curiosity,
Words are labels for experience.
We share our experiences through language. Each word represents an experience and carries the desire to be understood by others.
They re-present what we have thought, felt, seen and heard.
The Alphabet is the culturally agreed set of symbols we use to create words. Each letter is a graphic representation of a sound on the pathway to create meaning.
In the same way, magickal symbols can convey sounds, meaning, and ideas to those who know the language.
Nordic Runes are examples of an alphabet system that is seen as “alien” to those of us versed in our ABCs but has been used to spell out magickal intentions. Each rune captures an idea of something far more than the initial sounding or Latin letter equivalent.
I remember sitting in a Pagan Federation Conference constructing a set of cards with lines, circles and semi-circles which, when assembled (cast), could create letters of the English Alphabet. From the formed letter, the ‘Spell-caster” could construct a “reading” like they would if they were using runes.
Apart from doing something in my lunch break, the point was that it's not the letter shape itself that is important; it is the meanings we can ascribe to it…
A is not only for Apple but..
Alpha,
Beginning,
A bridge between two converging pathways,
Pointing to a single source
Standing-up because of the support of another
And so on,
The Witches Runes (Alphabet)
In “modern tradition” (if there is such a thing) the Witches' runes are a divination system that uses a set of symbols, often 13 in number, to explore life, nature, and spiritual principles. They draw inspiration from both ancient and modern witchcraft traditions.
Here's a brief look at Witches' Runes:
Divination System:
Witches' runes are tools used for divination, meditation, and ritual purposes. They allow practitioners to explore their intuition and gain insights into various aspects of their lives.
Symbolism:
The symbols in Witches' runes often represent different aspects of life, nature, and spiritual principles, such as the Sun, Moon, Star, Crossroads, Man, Woman, Harvest, and Waves.
Variations:
While some sets use 13 symbols, others may have 8 or 10, with different practitioners adding their interpretations and symbols, reflecting modern witchcraft's dynamic and personal nature.
Origins and Evolution:
The Witches' runes are a relatively modern system, drawing from folk and alchemical traditions, and have been adapted and evolved to suit individual beliefs and needs.
Examples of Books:
There are books available that explore the Witches' runes, such as The Witches' Runes: A Guide to Crafting & Connecting with the Witch Stones and "Witch's Runes: How to Make and Use Your Magic”
Practical Use:
Witches' runes can be used in various ways, including altar work, protection rituals, and spellwork. Symbols can be placed on altar cloths, tools, and offerings or drawn on doorways or personal objects.
Note that this system is fairly modern. Whilst some of the individual symbols have a history, their collation into this set of 13 symbols is a very recent thing,
The Theban Alphabet
The Theban alphabet, also known as the "witches' alphabet," is a substitution cipher of the Latin alphabet. Early modern occultists used it, and it was popular in the Wiccan movement. It first appeared in Johannes Trithemius's "Polygraphia" in 1518 and is attributed to Honorius of Thebes.
Honorius of Thebes was probably a mythical medieval sorcerer.
It functions as a substitution cipher for the Latin alphabet, where each symbol represents a standard alphabet letter.
The alphabet is often used in modern Wicca to keep magical writings secret, and it's considered a form of "witch's alphabet”
The Theban alphabet omits the letters J, V, and W, which didn't exist in classical Latin.
The Theban script, often regarded as a unique and esoteric writing system, has captivated the imagination of linguists, historians, and occult enthusiasts alike.
Though its origins can be traced back to the early modern period, its association with mystical and magical practices has imbued it with a sense of mystery.
Origins of Theban Script
The Theban script, also known as the "Witches' Alphabet," is believed to have been devised in the 16th century. The precise origins of the script, however, remain somewhat ambiguous. It is often attributed to the occultist and magician Johannes Trithemius, a German abbot and scholar who was instrumental in developing early modern magical traditions. Trithemius is best known for his works on cryptography and magic, which contributed significantly to the intellectual landscape of his time. While no direct evidence links Trithemius to the Theban script, his influences on the Western esoteric tradition laid the groundwork for the emergence of various written forms associated with magic.
The Theban script itself is thought to be based on Latin characters, modified and rearranged to create an entirely new alphabet. It consists of 24 letters, each corresponding to a letter in the Latin alphabet, and is characterized by its angular and flowing designs. The script's aesthetic reflects the era's preoccupation with alchemy, astrology, and other mystical pursuits. The Theban script gained prominence in grimoires — books of magic and spells — that proliferated during the Renaissance and subsequently shaped modern witchcraft practices.
Uses of Theban Script
The Theban script has been primarily utilized within the context of magical and occult practices. Its use in grimoires and spellbooks allowed practitioners to encode their rituals and spells, offering protection against prying eyes. The script's association with secrecy and esotericism made it an attractive choice for those wanting to practice their arts discreetly, as anything inscribed in Theban would be indecipherable to the uninitiated.
One of the best-known grimoires featuring Theban script is the "Key of Solomon" (Clavicula Salomonis), a famous text attributed to King Solomon that details the procedures for conjuring and controlling spirits. The use of Theban script within such texts symbolizes the age-old tradition of safeguarding knowledge from the uninitiated, reinforcing the importance of discretion in practising magic. In addition to grimoires, the Theban script found its way into various talismans, amulets, and ceremonial objects, further embedding itself within the fabric of occult practices.
The symbolism of the Theban script extends beyond mere encryption; it also serves as an expression of identity within the practitioner community. By adopting the script, practitioners align themselves with a historical tradition and signify their commitment to the practices of witchcraft and magical work. The Theban alphabet has been used in various rituals, such as sigils—symbols created for a specific magical purpose—which often incorporate Theban letters to invoke the desired energies.
The Theban script has seen a resurgence in popularity among practitioners of modern witchcraft, Wicca, and other neo-pagan paths. Its use is prevalent in online communities, where individuals share spells, rituals, and correspondences, often featuring Theban script as a means of personal expression and connection to the broader magical tradition. The script's aesthetic appeal and cultural significance continue to resonate with those who seek to explore the mystical realms of their practice, reinforcing its role as a vital part of contemporary occult literature.
Additionally, the Theban script is sometimes employed in creating artworks, tattoos, and jewelry, adding an element of mystique and individuality to personal or spiritual expressions. The fusion of historical significance with modern self-expression highlights the script's ongoing evolution and its adaptability to different contexts.
The Theban script is a testament to the rich interplay between language, magic, and identity. While muddled in mystery, its origins in the 16th century lay the groundwork for a writing system that transcends mere letters to become a symbol of secrecy and spiritual knowledge. Through its various applications—from grimoires and talismans to modern practices—it has maintained its place in the esoteric traditions of the West, continuing to captivate those who dare to delve into the mystical and transformative realms of magic. As the script persists in contemporary culture, it invites further exploration and interpretation, affirming its enduring legacy in the occult world.
Whilst on the topic of magickal alphabets, it is worth looking at the work of John Dee
John Dee's Angelic Script:
The Mystical Pursuit of Divine Language
John Dee (1527-1608), a polymath of the Elizabethan era, was a mathematician, astronomer, astrologer, alchemist, and a key figure in pursuing knowledge about the mystical and the divine. Among his many interests, one of the most intriguing was his development of a unique system known as the Angelic Script or "Enochian" language.
This cryptic script and accompanying language embodied Dee's aspiration to communicate directly with the divine and unlock the universe's secrets. The Angelic Script remains a testament to the intersection of spirituality, linguistics, and the quest for enlightenment.
John Dee’s journey into the mysterious world of angelic communication began during his exploratory investigations into the nature of reality and the cosmos. Dee firmly believed that divine knowledge could only be attained through communication with celestial beings. Motivated by this conviction, he sought the assistance of spiritual entities, coaxing them through magical rituals and the use of a scrying mirror. Edward Kelley, a crystal-gazer who claimed to receive angel visions, was his most noted collaborator. Together, they engaged in a series of "scrying" sessions that would eventually lead to the creation of the Angelic Script.
The Angelic Script is characterized by its unique, glyph-like characters that starkly contrast conventional alphabets. Dee and Kelley claimed that this script was revealed to them by angels, specifically a group of beings known as the "Elements," who imparted profound truths concerning the cosmos and the nature of existence.
Dee viewed the script not merely as an esoteric curiosity but as a vital tool for spiritual enlightenment and communication with the divine. The letters of this script not only represented phonetic sounds but were also imbued with numerological significance, reflecting Dee's belief in the intrinsic harmony of the universe.
Central to the Angelic Script is its connection to the Enochian language, wherein the angels allegedly imparted the vocabulary and syntax. This language was said to be the original tongue of humanity, a divine means of communication that predated all earthly languages. Dee's writings on Enochian magic contain extensive vocabularies, grammar rules, and a complex system of correspondences that aimed to unlock the hidden meanings of existence. In essence, the Angelic Script and Enochian language were intended to understand better the universe and the divine order that permeates it.
Dee’s meticulous documentation of the scrying sessions with Kelley outlines various invocations to call forth specific angelic beings. Each session was meticulously recorded, with the dialogues transcribed into Dee’s journals. These texts detail the messages imparted by the angels and outline the rituals and celestial hierarchies that Dee believed governed the cosmos. The intricate relationship between these spiritual beings and human existence formed the backbone of Dee’s understanding of the universe.
The Angelic Script is not simply an alphabet; it embodies the metaphysical principles Dee sought to explore. The characters, which resemble geometric shapes and curves, hint at an underlying sublime order. Dee believed that understanding these characters could lead to a greater comprehension of the divine structure of reality. Each stroke possessed a meaning far beyond its phonetic value. For Dee, engaging with the Angelic Script was akin to peeling back the layers of existence—each insight offering a glimpse into the mind of God.
In addition to his spiritual pursuits, John Dee was deeply rooted in his time's scientific inquiry. He was one of the early proponents of the experimental method, and his interests ranged from navigation to alchemy. Despite the interplay of science and mysticism in his life, Dee’s primary ambition remained his quest for divine knowledge. His writings reveal a fascinating tension between the empirical and the esoteric, as he sought to harmonize his perception of the material world with metaphysical truths.
The aftermath of Dee’s experiments with the Angelic Script left a profound legacy that would ripple through the ages, influencing various occult traditions and modern magical practices. His work attracted the attention of subsequent thinkers, including Aleister Crowley and the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, who integrated Enochian practices into their own systems. The allure of Dee’s angelic communication persisted as generations of practitioners sought to decipher the mysteries embedded within the script.
Today, scholars and practitioners continue to explore the depths of John Dee's Angelic Script, delving into its potential applications in contemporary spirituality and magic. Workshops and study groups dedicated to Enochian magic have emerged, where individuals study the script and its associated practices. The ongoing fascination with Dee's work speaks to the broader human pursuit of knowledge and the desire to connect with something greater than oneself.
The themes of John Dee's life resonate strongly in our modern age. The intersection of science and spirituality, the quest for understanding the universe, and the desire for direct experience of the divine continue to captivate our collective imagination. Dee’s work bridges the rational and the mystical, encouraging us to question the boundaries imposed by conventional understanding.
Alan /|\
We will dig deeper into The Witches Alphabeta and Dee’s Angelic Script at our next Moot.
Details of the Zoom meeting will be sent to all newsletter subscribers on the morning of April 18th.
Look forward to seeing you there.
Alan
Have you seen my weekly blog on my website?