Part Two

The cross is probably the most ancient amulet. However, it was  not originally a symbol of Christian origin. During the age of Samaria and Assyria, the first known crosses were symmetric, frequently made within a circle. The circle designated Earth and the four branches signified the four seasons of the year. This type of cross, used by the pagans long before Christ, symbolized a deity and creative forces. Later the cross was associated with protecting the wearer with well being and a long life. Columbus found the symbol of a cross in America. The Indians called it the “cross of the wind.”

In the beginning of our era, four forms of the cross—Greek, Tauay or the cross of the Old Testament, cross of Saint Andrew, and Latin or Christian  – were used in amulets. 

In the 4^th century during the rule of Constantine the Great, his mother Helen converted to Christianity while visiting Palestine. She announced she had found the “true cross;” the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Having received from Helen a part of the cross, Constantine sent it to the Pope in the Vatican. At the same time, he ordered the replacement of the eagle on all Roman soldiers’ shields to the Latin or Christian cross, thus raising the stature of Christianity to the state religion of the Roman Empire.

There is one more ancient amulet with a sad past. It is the swastika. Its name comes from India, which means “happy, successful.” Early Christians used the swastika on crypts to protect the dead.   In China, it was known as “thunder scroll” and brought long life, good luck and well being. The swastika frequently appeared on pedestals of Buddha statues. Knowing Nordic mythology, Hitler chose the swastika as a symbol of the Nazi party and the Arian race. Because of its recent history, the swastika is no longer popular as an amulet.

Talisman comes from the Arabian word “talisma” that means “magic letter.” Talismans usually appear on medals, rings or  pieces of parchment on which special marks and text have been drawn. The power of the magician or sorcerer serves as a link between the owner of the talisman and the invisible forces to strengthen the magical properties of the talisman, connecting its form, color and smell. Many European magic schools recommend that the wearer craft his own talisman so he learns about planetary symbols and natural forces.

Before making a talisman, the maker draws up a proposal that outlines the purpose of the object and what planet or natural forces are needed to achieve this purpose. If the maker feels comfortable with magical forces, he can create the talisman himself. Remember though that a defective talisman can create a boomerang effect.

Many talismans use pentacles (pentagrams) or seals. Pentacle in Latin means “small figure.” Pentacles frequently use five- or six-pointed stars. Seals usually name one of the spiritual forces.

The majority of ancient talismans used Hebrew (the language of ancient Jews) or Latin. Some symbols are so ancient that their importance and meaning have been lost in layers of centuries.

For new talismans, scripts and symbols must be carefully copied. Consecration must follow ritual. Talismans perform as instructed, regardless of will or ignorance of the owner. Bearers of talismans need to touch them three times a day, mentally concentrating on their applicability and purpose.

Talismans should only be given, never sold.  With frequent handling, metal becomes charged with biopower information of the bearer. Quite often parents give children jewelry from dead relatives without understanding its biopower. If the source of the talisman is unknown or if the giver is gravely ill or has died, the talisman should be washed in salt water to remove any stored information.

It is well known that some people purposely charge objects with negative energy, commonly called the “evil eye.” It is necessary   to remember the law of karma, the law of reason and consequence. Any action created by man has a consequence that is reflected. Under the laws of karma, what is created is returned threefold. Kindness is returned three times. Evil will also be rendered three times. Karma knows no exceptions.

Amulets and talismans can be produced from any imaginable material. Dare to create one for yourself. Bring a talisman into your life to embark on a new and probably mystical adventure. By studying ancient wisdom, you become wiser. If you believe  in their magic force, ancient amulets can help you.
 

Rachel Madorsky  
Maestro