Lamen (magic)
A lamen (Latin, meaning "plate") is a magical pendant or breastplate worn around the neck so that it hangs upon the breast over the heart.[1] Its uses vary but, most commonly, the term refers to a symbol of authority and a focus of magical energies.[1][2] Aleister Crowley described the lamen as "a sort of coat of arms. It expresses the character and powers of the wearer."[3] Crowley and DuQuette have proposed that the magical lamen might be a modern adaptation of the priestly breastplate of the ancient Hebrews.[4][5]
The magician may wear a lamen as a representation of his personal relation to his godhead or the universal forces of balance and enlightenment.[1]
Within group ceremony, lamens are frequently worn as symbols of particular offices or roles within the ritual work.
Various magical orders use lamens in one or more of these ways, including Ordo Templi Orientis[7] and Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn.[2]
Lamens may also be used by magicians to evoke certain spirits of the Key of Solomon.[8] Specialized lamens are also used in the workings described in The Book of Abramelin.[9]
References
- ^ )
- ^ OCLC 21907195.
- ^ Crowley, Aleister (1973). "Chapter XX: Talismans: The Lamen: The Pantacle". Magick Without Tears. Phoenix, AZ: Falcon Press.
- OCLC 1014451350.
- OCLC 772197864.
- ^ OCLC 25632048.
- ^ "Vintage Thelema Lodge Account of the Lamen of OTO – Zero Equals Two!". zeroequalstwo.net. 21 January 2015. Retrieved 2018-01-22.
- )
- )
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