How To Write A Spell by James Kambos

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

How To Write A Spell

Words have power. All words, whether written or spoken, are alive with the energy we give them. This magical concept was well understood by ancient magicians.

The first primitive alphabets probably originated about 3100 BC in southern Mesopotamia and were developed by the Sumerians. Early alphabets were a combination of words and symbols. These were used primarily to record business and monetary transactions; however, some writings that survived on clay tablets indicate some of these inscriptions were spells and prayers. These were among the earliest written charms. Most experts agree the ancient Egyptians produced one of the most extensive collections of written spells in human history.

In time, possessing any written charms or magical wisdom was dangerous and could lead to charges of black magic, and so the practice of writing down of magical lore declined. Magical knowledge was passed on orally. Only very old Books of Shadows or magical grimoires survived.

Today, a spell or affirmation that you write yourself is powerful, because it allows you to focus on your wish and create a resonant energy. The first step in writing a spell is the same as with a spoken spell: You must have a goal. Once one is clear in your mind you'll be ready to put it on paper. Notice, I did say on paper. A spell that is handwritten is much more powerful than one which is typed. When you write your affirmations by hand your powers of concentration are stronger and energy will flow from your heart and into your power hand. This energy then streams from your pen and finally takes visual form on the paper. As your spell begins to take physical form on paper, it also starts to manifest itself in the unseen realm of spirit. And at this moment true magic begins.

When you write a spell you are in effect writing a letter to the divine spirit. Keeping this in mind, the materials you use should be of good quality. I suggest the paper have a high cotton content and be pure white. Use a pen you are comfortable with and that contains blue or black ink. The pen and paper you use should be treated as magical tools--do not use them for anything else, and let no one else touch them.

Some magical traditions use red ink, because red is the color of the life force. The choice is yours. If you are artistic, a design relating to your goal is a nice addition. I like to include a simple drawing at the top of the page, depicting the Moon phase I am working with.

Begin your spell-writing when you are sure you won't be disturbed. Your affirmation need not be lengthy. A paragraph or a few well-chosen sentences will do. Here is one example of a written spell (for protection during travel).

I, (your name here), will that my trip be safe and secure in
all ways. I will travel to (your destination) safely and return
home safely. I am protected from all danger. All forms of
transportation will be safe and secure. I thank the divine
power (or your personal deity)for his/her aid. I write this
spell for the good of all and according to the free will of all.
So mote it be.

Once you are finished writing, fold the paper as a letter. Place it in a special drawer or box. You may sprinkle herbs in the drawer that would be appropriate for your desired goal. Tell no one about your spell. A written spell may be kept forever. It may be carried with you, or destroyed in a respectful manner at the designated time, after the spell has worked.

If you work with runes, or some other magical alphabet that you thoroughly understand, you may use it to tap into extra magical power. Writing in a secret alphabet will serve to trigger your psychic powers. But never write a charm in a language you don't know well.

How To Combine the Written Word with the Elements

The masters of written spellcrafting, such as the ancient Egyptians and the whirling dervishes, took the art of spell writing one step further. If needed, the written charm would be combined with one or more of the elements--earth, air, fire, or water. This would complete the spell: For example, if a spell was written to combat an illness the paper with the written spell would be soaked in water, the ink would wash off, and the ill individual would then drink the inky water.

Here is another example. Let's say you wished to rid yourself of a bad habit. You could write your spell during a waning Moon, then soak the paper in salt water and end the ritual by burying the paper and pouring the salt water onto the ground. In this way, you've combined the written charm with the elements of water and earth, where the negativity will be absorbed and purified. An alternative method would be to burn the spell and disperse the ashes to the wind. Here you'd be combining the written work with fire and air to achieve your goal.

Other Factors To Consider

The practice of writing spells may be used by different religious systems. For instance, Pagans may direct a written spell to a specific god or goddess. Christians may petition a saint to aid them.

As is the case in much magical work, timing is crucial. You should try to time your spell-writing with Moon phases and other astrological or seasonal influences. Days of the week can also enhance the power of the written word. Here is a list of the days of the week with planetary and magical associations.

Sunday (the Sun): Health and vitality, general well-being.

Monday (the Moon): Home, family matters, children, women's issues, and magic in general.

Tuesday (Mars): Strength and protection.

Wednesday (Mercury): Communication and travel. A good day to write a spell when you can't decide which other day would be best.

Thursday (Jupiter): Money, wealth, expanding a career or business.

Friday (Venus): Love and friendship; also, home decorating or remodeling.

Saturday (Saturn): Dealing with fears or serious thinking; helping the needy.

If you have your spell planned well in advance, the time of day you write can also add benefits. Magically speaking, the day, like the year, is divided into four parts--morning, noon, sunset, and midnight--each with magical attributes.

Morning: Spells written at this time could include anything dealing with new beginnings--a new job, purchasing a new home, or a new romance.

Noon: This is the solar hour, which deals with health and energy, and spells intended to increase anything; also it is good for expanding a business or adding passion to romance.

Sunset: Twilight spells could deal with spirituality, emotions, or contacting the spiritual realm. Write a spell now to end something, such as a bad habit.

Midnight: The traditional "Witching hour" is a good time to write spells concerned with secrets or occult wisdom. If you aren't sure when to write a spell, midnight is always good.

Spell writing is nearly a lost magical art. If you combine your own ideas with some of those above, you can use the written word to perform powerful magic. Let your imagination go, and customize your spells to suit your individual needs.

by James Kambos