With the release of Harry Potter in 2001, the wonderful world of magic was introduced to us. To many magic is just fantasy, but in actuality, it does exist. Magic words, incantations, and spells have been used in various cultures for centuries to manifest, alter, protect or harm. The Dictionary of Ancient Magic Words and Spells, from Abraxas to Zoar, analyzes more than 1000 spells from the magical traditions of Europe.
The author also shares the magical papyri of the Greeks and recently discovered one-of-a-kind grimoires (a book of magic spells and invocations) from France, Germany, and Scandinavia.
The author has compiled a comprehensive dictionary of ancient magic words, phrases, and spells along with an in-depth exploration–the first in English–of secret magical alphabets, including those based on Hebrew letters, Kabbalistic symbols, astrological signs, and runes. Drawing upon thousands of medieval accounts and famous manuscripts such as the Heptameron of Peter Abano, the author examines the origins of each word or spell, offering detailed instructions on their successful use, whether for protection, love, wealth, or healing. He charts their evolution and derivations through the centuries, showing, for example, how spells that were once intended to put out fires evolved to protect people from witchcraft. He reveals the inherent versatility of magic words and how each sorcerer or witch had a set of stock phrases they would combine to build a custom spell for the magical need at hand.
I found this books really fascinating. The author has found spells for almost anything. From having a toothache, to falling off a horse, to stopping birds from eating your crop, to make yourself invisible, there is a magical word or spell to create this reality. It’s an interesting and enlightening read! Abracadabra! Now you can win this book!