Lamen (magic)
Magical pendant worn around the neck From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A lamen (Latin, meaning "plate") is a magical pendant used as a protective 'magical 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]
In ceremonial magic
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.[2][6] Many magical orders also use a particular lamen design to show membership and align energies of individual members with the group dynamic.[1][2][6]
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
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