Your Gateway to Cosmic Power and Transformation
Planetary talismans have long been a source of occult fascination, offering a unique blend of celestial power and physical application. Each of the seven classical planets – Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, the Sun, Venus, Mercury, and the Moon – has a wide range of uses according to the individual astrological conditions and image. The individual astrological configuration, image and petition words focus the talisman’s effects. However, some generalized effects are experienced regardless.
Astrological talismans, originating in ancient times and extensively documented in the medieval grimoire Picatrix or Ghayat al Hakim (Goal of the Wise) as well as Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa’s Book 2 “Celestial Magic”, have quickly become the favorite of many. The types of astrological talismans are numerous: lunar mansions, fixed stars, constellations, decans and individual planets to name a few. Each type of talisman tends to bring its owner a certain type of effect. Some are fast but have limitations on their effects. Others, like the fixed stars, often produce the deepest and most life-changing effects but typically take many years to manifest. Planetary talismans often strike a good balance between strength and speed of effects.
While the time it takes for a talisman to fully act on its owner is unpredictable, planetary talismans can act relatively quickly provided that the election is configured well. Each planet brings with it certain qualities and influences.
The historical and cultural significance of planetary talismans is vast, with their use spanning global magical practices and various cultures and societies. These talismans have been used to enhance different aspects of life, from attracting love and assisting their owners with obtaining wealth, to ensuring protection and enhancing one’s spiritual journey, and even influencing the course of battles and entire wars in some cases.
In this guide, we will delve deeper into the world of planetary talismans, exploring their unique characteristics, their cultural significance, and how they can be used to bring about positive changes in your life. Whether you’re new to the world of astrological magic or a seasoned veteran, this guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of planetary talismans and their potential.
The History and Origins of Planetary Talismans
Planetary talismans have been a cornerstone of astrological magic, with their roots deeply embedded in traditional (Renaissance, medieval and ancient) astrology. Astrological talismans were used in ancient times, their effectiveness supported by the famous Neoplatonic philosopher and theurgist Iamblichus over 1,800 years ago. These talismans, each associated with one of the seven planets, have been favored by many due to their balance between strength and speed of effects.
Temple carving of Babylonian king Ashurnasirpal II, approximately 700 BC, wearing a necklace with five planetary pendants
The creation and use of these talismans are guided by complex astrological conditions, specific materials, and intricate processes. The instructions for crafting these talismans have been preserved in traditional source materials such as Picatrix, Agrippa’s Three Books of Occult Philosophy, Book of the Treasure of Alexander, Marsilio Ficino’s Three Books on Life, Liber Hermetis and the Sacred Book of Hermes to Asclepius. These works provide a wealth of information on the overall qualities that a talisman of a particular planet tends to bestow upon its owner.
The use of planetary talismans has evolved over time, with each planet bringing with it certain qualities and influences. For instance, Saturn is associated with length of life, sobriety, wisdom, self-discipline, perseverance, and obtaining hidden knowledge. Jupiter is linked with good fortune, justice, money, healthy balance, and endurance. Mars symbolizes bravery, strength, speed, focus, determination, initiative, and action. The Sun represents reputation, wealth, glory, respect, authority, and vital life energy. Venus is connected with love, sensuality, the arts, and appreciation of nature and sensual things. Mercury signifies sharp wit, communication, trade/business, divination, records, mental precision and processing information. Lastly, the Moon is associated with health and vital life energy, birth, fertility, emotional balance, healthy growth, plants and water-based life.
The history of planetary talismans is a testament to the enduring belief in the power of celestial bodies and their influence on human life. These talismans have been used for thousands of years by people from all walks of life, from peasants to kings, to enhance their life journey. As we delve deeper into the world of planetary talismans, we will explore their unique characteristics, their cultural significance, and how they can be used to bring about positive changes in your life.
Planetary Talismans in Different Cultures
The use of planetary talismans is not confined to a single culture or society; rather, it is a practice that has been embraced by various cultures around the world, each with its unique adaptations and customs. This section delves into the fascinating world of planetary talismans as they appear in Egyptian, Greek, Arabian, Chinese, and Mayan societies, and explores their contemporary use.
The Egyptians
In ancient Egyptian culture, planetary talismans were deeply intertwined with their religious beliefs and practices. The Egyptians mainly used their own unique system called Decans, divisions of each of the 12 zodiacal signs into three sections of ten degrees each (hence the term Decan, reflecting the number ten). Each Decan was a time god in and of itself. The Egyptians also revered the planets as celestial deities, each possessing unique attributes and powers as found in the Greek Magical Papyri or PGM. Decan talismans were often crafted to harness these powers as evidenced by the Sacred Book of Hermes to Asclepius and other Hermetic texts from the Greco-Egyptian astrologers, with each Decan possessing the ability to heal specific body parts.
The Persians
The Persian Magi are likely the single largest source of astrological magic in the ancient world. Babylonians had long-established astrological magic practices dating back to Sumerian times but their practices were comparatively simple until the rapid rise of the Achaemenid Empire, or First Persian Empire, from 700-500 BCE. It was during this period that Babylonian astrology experienced a sudden leap in complexity, especially after Cyrus the Great famously took control of Babylon and brought with him increased contact between the Babylonian priesthood and the Persian Magi, the latter revered for their unequaled expertise in astronomy, astrology, and unusual abilities to perform divination and miraculous supernatural feats. In fact, the word “magic” continues to bear their namesake of the Magi. Egypt also came under control of the Persian Empire and their astrological practices soon expanded beyond the Decan-oriented system that had been used for two thousand years prior.
The Ancient Greeks
In Greek society, the use of planetary talismans was similarly prevalent. The Greeks had a profound understanding of the cosmos and the celestial bodies from their contact with Persian Magi, Babylonians and Egyptians, and this knowledge was reflected in their use of talismans. Each planet was associated with a particular god or goddess from the Greek pantheon, and talismans were used as a means of connecting with these divine beings. The Greeks held a tremendous respect for the wisdom of the Egyptians and especially the astrological magic of the Magi. The period following Alexander the Great’s conquest saw the rapid spread of astrological magic in Greek culture, later adopted in the Roman Empire. In recent years, Project Hindsight has devoted extensive efforts to translating long-forgotten Hellenistic astrology texts into English for the first time.
The Arabians
Arabian culture also has a rich history of using planetary talismans. In Arabian astrology, each planet is associated with specific qualities and influences, and talismans are crafted to tap into these energies. These talismans are often inscribed with specific Arabic scripts and symbols to enhance their potency. Much of the material in Picatrix originated from pre-Islamic astrological practices. Astrology and astrological magic often played a significant role in the Islamic Golden Age as well as the rapid growth and prosperity of the Ottoman Empire. It was this period that the Picatrix was committed to writing, preserving the techniques of ancient astral priests for future generations.
The Chinese
In Chinese cultures, the use of planetary talismans is closely linked with the practice of Feng Shui. Each planet is associated with a particular element and direction, and talismans are used to balance these energies within one’s living space. Chinese talismans often incorporate intricate designs and symbols, each carrying a specific meaning and purpose.
The Mayans
The Mayans, renowned for their incredibly advanced astronomical knowledge, also utilized planets for magical purposes, though records are sadly scarce due to the systematic destruction of the Conquistadors. Among many notable practices was their use of planetary positions for timing the start of all their wars. They believed that each planet had a significant influence on the earthly realm, and they timed most aspects of their lives with the movements of the cosmos, even naming their children based on the celestial configurations at their time of birth. Although records and evidence are scarce, it appears very likely that Mayans and other Mesoamericans employed astrological talismans of some kind similar to the practices of the Old World.
In contemporary society, the use of planetary talismans has begun to regain popularity. They are used to some extent in various spiritual practices, from Solomonic magic to Wicca. Despite the differences in cultural interpretations and practices, the underlying principle remains the same: planetary talismans serve as a bridge between the earthly realm and the cosmos, allowing us to tap into the unique energies of the planets.
In conclusion, the use of planetary talismans is a testament to humanity’s enduring fascination with the cosmos. Regardless of culture or era, these talismans serve as timeless, tangible reminders of our mysterious past, connection to the universe and its infinite possibilities.
Exploring the Planets: A Cosmic Guide
The cosmos is a vast and fascinating realm, with each planet possessing unique characteristics that influence the talismans associated with them. This section provides a comprehensive guide to the planets and their associated talismans, exploring the unique characteristics of each planet, their associated deities and celestial entities, and the optimal timing for accessing each planet’s energy.
Despite the popular misconception that everyone believed in a flat earth before Galileo, many ancient Greek thinkers wrote extensively on the subject of the earth’s spherical shape. Pythagoreans knew of it in 500 BC and it was reiterated by Aristotle a few centuries later. Around 250 BCE, the Greek polymath Eratosthenes traveled to Alexandria and accurately calculated the earth’s circumference simply using his mind and a stick to measure shadows cast by the sun. The problem was that the heliocentric model of the solar system had no practical use. The geocentric, earth-centered model provided a GPS and clock in the sky. Among many other uses, it allowed anyone to accurately orient themselves for long-distance travel or plan the best times to plant and harvest crops.
For spiritual purposes, the rays of the stars and planets surrounded the earth and created heavenly realms that influenced the human souls on earth. The modern term “astral projection” is linked to timeless practices of contacting these planetary and star realms in visions to develop the human soul and obtain otherworldly knowledge. The invisible spiritual spheres of planets and stars that enveloped the earth was the spiritual ecosystem that astrologers studied in their attempts to predict the future influences of the heavens.
The Sun
Starting with the Sun, it is not a planet by modern thinking but is often included in planetary talismans due to its central role in our solar system. The Sun is associated with vitality, courage, and leadership. Talismans linked to the Sun are often used to enhance personal power and confidence. In many cultures, the Sun is associated with powerful deities like the Egyptian god Ra and the Greek god Apollo. He rules the sign of Leo, the lion, and is exalted in Aries, the sign of the spring equinox.
Mercury
Mercury, named after the Roman messenger god, is associated with communication, intellect, divination, business and travel. Mercury talismans are often used to enhance one’s cognitive abilities, increase business or to facilitate effective communication. The best time to harness Mercury’s energy is during periods when the planet is in direct motion in his domicile signs of Gemini or Virgo.
Venus
Venus, named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty, is associated with love, harmony, and beauty. Venus talismans are often used to attract love, increase artistic abilities or enhance personal charm and attractiveness. Venus’s energy is most potent on Fridays, during its planetary hour and when she is most powerful in her domiciles of Taurus and Libra, or her exaltation of Pisces.
Mars
Mars, named after the Roman god of war, is associated with courage, determination, and conflict. Mars talismans are often used to instill courage and resolve, increase physical and mental energy, boost the immune system to ward off sickness or to overcome a variety of obstacles. Mars’s energy is most potent on Tuesdays and during its planetary hour, while he is rising or culminating in Aries or Scorpio, both his signs of rulership, or his exaltation in Capricorn.
Jupiter
Jupiter, named after the king of the Roman gods, is associated with abundance, prosperity, and wisdom. Jupiter talismans are often used to attract wealth and success or to enhance wisdom, understanding and religious experiences. Jupiter’s energy is most potent on Thursdays and during its planetary hour while rising on the horizon or culminating in the midheaven.
Saturn
Saturn, named after the Roman god of agriculture and time, is associated with discipline, responsibility, hidden things, the occult, secrets, agriculture, minerals, treasures, sobriety and structure. Saturn is often considered one of, if not the strongest of the planetary gods due to his extremely slow movement through the heavens. It takes almost 30 years for Saturn to return to his original position above the earth, making Saturn talismans among the most rare and difficult to find. Saturn talismans are often used to instill discipline or to bring structure and order to one’s life. Saturn’s energy is most potent on Saturdays and during its planetary hour, in his domicile signs of Capricorn and Aquarius or exalted in Libra.
The outer planets – Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto – are not used in traditional astrology, only the seven classical planets. The structure of traditional astrology was based on sacred geometry and the esoteric properties of numbers. The circle is a universal symbol of God, the One, the cosmos itself, and when it is divided into 12 signs it aligns the cosmic forces and earth with the Dodecahedron.
The 12-sided Dodecahedron is one of the most sacred geometric shapes in Pythagorean thought, with Pythagoras himself (according to Proclus) saying its mysteries were too holy to be spoken aloud. According to Plato, the Dodecahedron was a perfect model of the cosmos. The number seven was of special holiness to Pythagoras and his successors, corresponding to the days of the week, musical notes, colors, and was a prime number, said to represent a virgin.
The astrological aspects are the harmony of the spheres made manifest for the ancients. The sextile, 1/6 of the circle, was the number 6 or heptad resonating in the cosmos. The trine, the most perfect aspect, was the triangle, the number three made manifest, which was the key to all the hidden mysteries of the universe. Likewise, hard aspects such as the opposition were cosmic manifestations of the dyad, the number 2, the principle of evil itself, representing the primordial split from God, who embodied the number one, The One.
The cosmos and earth were an emanation of these divine invisible principles that could only be understood through contemplation of the sacred properties of number. The movements of the heavens were the physical embodiment of God’s calculations and their movements emanated influences into the matter below in our world. Adding to these sacred numbers and proportions throws out the underlying principles.
In conclusion, each planet offers unique energies that can be harnessed through the use of planetary talismans. By understanding the characteristics of each planet and their associated deities, as well as the optimal timing for accessing their energies, one can effectively utilize planetary talismans to enhance various aspects of life.
The Process of Crafting a Planetary Talisman
Crafting a planetary talisman is a deeply personal and spiritual process that requires careful consideration and preparation. This section provides detailed steps for crafting a planetary talisman, from selecting the right materials to aligning with the planetary cycles.
Selecting the Right Materials
The first step in crafting a planetary talisman is selecting the right materials. Different materials resonate with different planetary energies. In the case of metals, gold is associated with the Sun, silver with the Moon, copper with Venus, and iron with Mars. Many lapidaries exist, all the way back to Babylonian times, which lists stones and their spiritual connections with specific planets and stars. Choose a material that aligns with the energy of the planet you wish to establish a spiritual connection with.
Incorporating Symbols and Inscriptions
Once you have chosen your material, the next step is to incorporate symbols and inscriptions that fit the chosen planet. These could include astrological symbols, sigils, or glyphs associated with the planet, or even images of the planet’s associated deities or magical properties. Specific images are found in sources like Picatrix, many of which match deity images from ancient times. For example, many Venus images in Picatrix bear a very close resemblance to Ishtar and Aphrodite. Picatrix is a repository of ancient knowledge from the vanished civilizations of the Mediterranean. This process imbues the talisman with the spiritual energies of the planet and also provides it with focus. Different images are used to produce different effects, although all are imbued with the general spiritual qualities of it’s planet.
Aligning with the Planetary Strengths
The timing of crafting your talisman is by far the most critical part. Each planet has specific days and hours associated with it, but that is only one factor among many. The planet must also be in a zodiac sign where it has strength, such as its domicile or exaltation, and it must be rising on the ascendant (eastern horizon) or culminating in the midheaven (the highest point in the sky). The moon is a critical factor in every talisman, and must be free from afflictions such as hard aspects with malefic planets, combustion (too close to the sun) and many more conditions that Picatrix and other sources state.
The moon is of crucial importance because it acts as a funnel or mediator between the cosmos and the earth. Every stellar influence must pass through the moon to reach the earth. Even when using the most lenient criteria, the astrological conditions for a talisman are extremely complex. It is not unusual for a planetary talisman to have a suitable astrological configuration of only 20-30 minutes out of a total of five or ten years. Many talismans, such as Saturn, can only be created once in a lifetime. A talisman created according to the stringent conditions in traditional sources is an unusually rare item.
Consecrating the Talisman
The final step in crafting a planetary talisman is consecration. This involves a ritual or ceremony to activate the talisman and align it with the celestial spirit that inhabits the talisman. This could involve rituals, meditation, visualization, or spoken incantations and prayers. The specific process of consecration can vary greatly depending on personal beliefs and practices and is not strictly necessary, as Albertus Magnus confirmed, but is widely agreed to be very beneficial.
Remember, the process of crafting a planetary talisman is not just about creating a physical object, but also about forging a spiritual connection with the cosmos. It’s a deeply personal process that should be approached with respect. The astrological chart used to select a time for your talisman’s creation is the birth horoscope for a stellar spirit that ensouls a physical object: your talisman. This process mimics creation itself: spirit tethering itself to matter so it can operate in the physical world. With the right approach, your planetary talisman can serve as a powerful tool for harnessing the unique energies of the planets.
Planetary Talismans for Love, Wealth, and Protection
Planetary talismans can be powerful tools for attracting and enhancing specific aspects of life, such as love, wealth, and protection. This section explores how to use planetary talismans to attract these aspects, and which specific planets and their associated talismans are most effective for each.
Love
When it comes to attracting love, Venus is the planet to turn to. As the planet associated with love, beauty, and harmony, a Venus talisman can be a powerful tool for attracting love into your life. This could be romantic love, but also self-love or platonic love. Venus talismans are often crafted from copper and often incorporate ancient images of goddesses or astrological symbols for Venus.
Wealth
For wealth and prosperity, Jupiter and the Sun are the planets of choice. Known as the planet of abundance and good fortune, a Jupiter talisman can help attract wealth and success. Jupiter talismans are often crafted from tin and may incorporate symbols of abundance, such as the cornucopia, eagle, or ancient god images such as Jove or Marduk. The Sun has always been associated with kingship and glory, and increased wealth as a byproduct of raising ones’ station in life. Sun talismans were often crafted from gold, although silver is an acceptable substitute according to some sections of Picatrix, as well as other gold-colored stones. Sun images frequently incorporate images of crowned kings on a throne or chariot, or a lion, the “king of beasts” symbolizing the Sun’s domicile of Leo.
Protection
For protection, Mars is a powerful ally. As the planet associated with courage and defense, a Mars talisman can provide protection against negative energies or harm. Mars talismans are often crafted from iron and may incorporate ancient god images of Ares or the astrological symbols associated with Mars.
In conclusion, planetary talismans can be a powerful tool for attracting love, wealth, and protection among many other things. By understanding the unique spiritual qualities of each planet and aligning your talisman crafting with these astrological forces, you can create a potent tool for attracting the aspects of life you desire. Remember, the power of a talisman comes not just from the physical object, but primarily from the carefully selected astrological conditions selected for the stellar spirit’s time of “birth” into the physical world.
Enhancing Your Planetary Talisman
While owning a planetary talisman is a significant privilege, long forgotten for centuries and once reserved mainly for nobility and wealthy people, more power in these celestial tools can be unlocked when they are incorporated into your daily life. This section provides guidance on how to enhance your planetary talisman experience, from creating a sacred space to aligning your practice with astrological cycles.
Creating a Sacred Space
The first step in enhancing your astrological magic practice is to create a sacred space. Your talisman is a living thing, it houses a spirit from the stars. Think of it as a portable temple. This space should be a place where you can focus your energy and intention without distraction. It could be a specific room in your house, a corner of your bedroom, or even an outdoor space. You might choose to decorate this space with items that compliment the spirit of your talisman, such as candles, incense, plants and herbs associated with the planet, or images of the planet or deity.
Incorporating Meditation and Visualization Techniques
Meditation and visualization are not necessary but can be useful tools for connecting with the spirit of your talisman. You might choose to meditate while holding your talisman, visualizing the energy of the associated planet flowing into you. Or you could visualize your desired outcome, such as attracting love or wealth, and imagine your talisman as a conduit for manifesting this outcome. Like any living thing, the spirit that inhabits your talisman appreciates interaction and attention. Ancient people regularly presented gifts to talisman statues that were ensouled with astrological magic. Hermetic tradition tells us that these spirits voluntarily inhabit these material objects in order to enjoy pleasant things of the physical world, such as pleasing smells of incense or beautiful flowers. When they are happy, they bestow favors on the person who gave them the gifts.
Regular Cleansing of Your Talisman
Just like any spiritual tool, your talisman needs regular cleansing maintain its potency. The oldest occult writings all agree that benevolent spirits are repelled by filth and unpleasant odors, in writings as old as the Book of Tobit and the Greek Magical Papyri Cleansing can be done in various ways, such as holding it over incense smoke, cleaning it with fresh water, or even perfumed water. Burning candles during this process can also help. This is important if you wear your talisman regularly, as it will inevitably accumulate dirt, sweat, and other things repugnant to spirits.
Aligning Your Practice with Planetary Cycles
Finally, aligning your magic practice with astrological cycles can enhance its effectiveness. This involves paying attention to the movements of the associated planet and timing your practice accordingly. For instance, if you have a Venus talisman for love, you might choose to do a love attraction ritual or invocation on a Friday, during the planetary hour of Venus. This is the simplest method and is widespread in many Solomonic grimoires.
The practice of full ritual petitions, on the other hand, is a far more complicated endeavor. Although Picatrix is most known for its astrological talismans, a significant portion of the book is dedicated to “petitions”. These are ritual actions performed with a every part of the sky and every planet taken into account. Similar to electional astrology (selecting auspicious times for beginning an important task), this is choosing a time when the astrological activities of the heavens match the desired outcome you want and performing the ritual petition at precisely that time. Picatrix Book 3 provides invocations for each planet as well as instructions for performing the ritual itself, much of which involves wearing certain attire, fasting, and burning very specific (and sometimes difficult to obtain) materials as incense. Although not as well-known as talismans, petitions offer a unique benefit in that they usually act remarkably fast compared to a talisman. The downside is that a good talisman will last and work for a lifetime, often quietly and its owner unaware, and a petition does not act any further when its task is fulfilled.
In conclusion, enhancing your astrological magic practice involves more than just owning a talisman. You can get more results with attention, focus, meditation and a willingness to align yourself with the cosmic energies. With these practices, your planetary talisman can become a powerful tool for transformation.
Celestial Catalysts: The Role of Planetary Talismans in Personal Transformation
In the grand tapestry of the cosmos, planetary talismans serve as conduits, linking us to the celestial forces that shape our existence. By comprehending the unique spiritual attributes of each planet and aligning your talisman creation with these astrological energies, you can forge a potent instrument for attracting the facets of life you seek. Bear in mind, the efficacy of a talisman is not solely derived from the physical object, but predominantly from the meticulously chosen astrological conditions selected for the stellar spirit’s moment of “birth” into the physical realm.
As we traverse the path of life, these talismans can act as our guides, safeguarding us, guiding us, and aiding us in leading a fulfilling life. Whether your quest is for love, prosperity, protection, or spiritual advancement, there exists a planetary talisman that can assist you on your journey. Therefore, immerse yourself in the realm of planetary talismans, and unlock the celestial power that lies in wait.
Before you explore further, I encourage you to consider acquiring a talisman of your own from our store. Each piece is meticulously crafted under prime astrological conditions, designed to connect you with the celestial power you seek. Visit our store to find your unique cosmic companion and begin your journey with the stars: Discover your talisman.
Dive deeper into the mystical world of astrological talismans with our comprehensive resources. Enhance your understanding and find guidance in selecting or creating the talisman that resonates with your cosmic journey:
- The Power of Planetary Talismans: Uncover the essential principles behind the creation and application of planetary talismans. Read more
- Crafting Your First Talisman: Follow our detailed guide to crafting your talisman, ensuring it aligns with the most favorable astrological energies. Learn how
- Astrological Alignments for Talismans: Learn about the importance of selecting the right astrological timing to empower your talisman. Discover the best times
- Talisman Care and Activation: Get tips on caring for and activating your talisman to maximize its effectiveness. Find out more
Embark on your celestial journey with the guidance of planetary talismans, tapping into the transformative power they hold.