The Magic Wand and Staff
Spain - Perforated baton from the Upper Magdalenian of El Castillo Cave. It has been decorated with an engraving of a deer
Zoroastrianism and the Magi
The magi of the ancient world were the priesthood of the Zoroastrian religion. As Plato noted, magic (mageia) refers to "the Magian lore of Zoroaster" ( Alchibiades 1.122). The baresman (Phl.barsom), or sacred bundle of twigs (or "slender wands"), is a ritual implement which has played an important part in Zoroastrian religious practices since prehistoric times. According to Kotwal and Boyd, the baresman is an "ancient Indo-Iranian emblem of seeking the Holy", and it "establishes a connecting link between this getig [material] world and the menog [spiritual] realm. The barsom is, as it were, the conduit through which the archetypal principles and powers manifest their presence and receive the offerings." (A Persian offering, 1991, p. 6, 10; words in square brackets are mine). It is also an instrument through which one acquires the sacred power (op. cit. p. 23). Perhaps then it is also a conduit for channeling the power outwards, and thus is a prototypical 'magic wand'. The baresman is traditionally made of tamarisk trigs, although in modern times metal rods have been substituted.
Dino, a contemporary of Philip refers to the use of the barsom for divination, which is also supported by the Denkard. (Modi 1922, RCC, p. 280.)
A stick with nine knots is used during the nine-nights' purification (barashnom). The knots are barriers against pollution and evil influences. (Vd9.14, compare Key of Solomon Book 2, chapters 4, 5, and 13.)
In Zoroastrianism we also find the mace used. This is now referred to as gurz (from Avestan vazra, Sanskrit vajra.) It is used as a spiritual weapon to drive off evil.
Egyptian, Greek, and Roman sources
The magi of the ancient world were the priesthood of the Zoroastrian religion. As Plato noted, magic (mageia) refers to "the Magian lore of Zoroaster" ( Alchibiades 1.122). The baresman (Phl.barsom), or sacred bundle of twigs (or "slender wands"), is a ritual implement which has played an important part in Zoroastrian religious practices since prehistoric times. According to Kotwal and Boyd, the baresman is an "ancient Indo-Iranian emblem of seeking the Holy", and it "establishes a connecting link between this getig [material] world and the menog [spiritual] realm. The barsom is, as it were, the conduit through which the archetypal principles and powers manifest their presence and receive the offerings." (A Persian offering, 1991, p. 6, 10; words in square brackets are mine). It is also an instrument through which one acquires the sacred power (op. cit. p. 23). Perhaps then it is also a conduit for channeling the power outwards, and thus is a prototypical 'magic wand'. The baresman is traditionally made of tamarisk trigs, although in modern times metal rods have been substituted.
Dino, a contemporary of Philip refers to the use of the barsom for divination, which is also supported by the Denkard. (Modi 1922, RCC, p. 280.)
A stick with nine knots is used during the nine-nights' purification (barashnom). The knots are barriers against pollution and evil influences. (Vd9.14, compare Key of Solomon Book 2, chapters 4, 5, and 13.)
In Zoroastrianism we also find the mace used. This is now referred to as gurz (from Avestan vazra, Sanskrit vajra.) It is used as a spiritual weapon to drive off evil.
Egyptian, Greek, and Roman sources
Amuletic wand, incised hippopotamus ivory, 30.5 cm. Egypt, Middle Kingdom
Magic Wands used by Egyptian Magi
The use of the baresman by the magi was well known to Greek writers and is mentioned by Strabo and Phoenix of Colophon (280 B.C.), cited in Athenaeus. The magic wand was also known among the ancient Greeks and Romans.
Pliny and Apuleius both attest to their use. Homer (in the Odyssey 11.14ff) and Virgil both describe the archetypical sorceress, Circe, as using a magical wand. The relevant passage in Virgil was noted by Agrippa in his Occult Philosophy Book 1, chapter 41. It is also cited by Eliphas Levi Key of the Mysteries, part 4, chap 1.
Betz' collection of Greek and Demotic magical papyri has examples of spells which include the use of a wand or staff. The spell PGM I.42-195, for example has the magician "hold a branch of myrtle ... shaking it, [and salute] the goddess." (Betz, p. 5) Similarly PGM II.22, II.65 (Betz p. 13, 14)
IamblichusIamblichus (c. A.D. 250-325), one of the more important Neoplatonic philosophers, discussed magic in general in his On the Mysteries. In it he mentions the prophetess holding a staff or wand, invoking the divinity. (Mysteries of the Egyptians, chapter 7.) Agrippa also cites this passage in OP3.48.
Pliny and Apuleius both attest to their use. Homer (in the Odyssey 11.14ff) and Virgil both describe the archetypical sorceress, Circe, as using a magical wand. The relevant passage in Virgil was noted by Agrippa in his Occult Philosophy Book 1, chapter 41. It is also cited by Eliphas Levi Key of the Mysteries, part 4, chap 1.
Betz' collection of Greek and Demotic magical papyri has examples of spells which include the use of a wand or staff. The spell PGM I.42-195, for example has the magician "hold a branch of myrtle ... shaking it, [and salute] the goddess." (Betz, p. 5) Similarly PGM II.22, II.65 (Betz p. 13, 14)
IamblichusIamblichus (c. A.D. 250-325), one of the more important Neoplatonic philosophers, discussed magic in general in his On the Mysteries. In it he mentions the prophetess holding a staff or wand, invoking the divinity. (Mysteries of the Egyptians, chapter 7.) Agrippa also cites this passage in OP3.48.
Odinsgren, Norse Runic Wand
The Grimoires
Early manuscripts of magic (grimoires) have many references to the use and importance of the wand in western magic. There are two similar ritual implements commonly described in magical literature: The staff (Latin baculusor bacculus; Italian bastone; French Le baton, bâton) and the wand (Latin Virga or virgulam; Ital. verga; German Stäbchen; French: La verge; In French manuscripts this is sometimes called viere, baguette, baguette magique, baguete, or bagette, also translated as rod). The staff is more the size of a walking stick; the wand is smaller and tapered:
Early manuscripts of magic (grimoires) have many references to the use and importance of the wand in western magic. There are two similar ritual implements commonly described in magical literature: The staff (Latin baculusor bacculus; Italian bastone; French Le baton, bâton) and the wand (Latin Virga or virgulam; Ital. verga; German Stäbchen; French: La verge; In French manuscripts this is sometimes called viere, baguette, baguette magique, baguete, or bagette, also translated as rod). The staff is more the size of a walking stick; the wand is smaller and tapered:
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According to the Key of Solomon (Book 2 chapter 8): "The staff should be of elderwood or cane, and the wand of hazel or nut tree, in all cases the wood being virgin, that is of one year's growth only. They should each be cut from the tree at a single stroke, on the day of Mercury (i.e. Wednesday), at sunrise. The characters shown should be written or engraved thereon in the day and hour of Mercury." (Mathers tr. revised by JHP)
According to the Sworn Book of Honorius (Chap CXXXII), the magician's wand or staff is made of laurel or hazel, likewise of one year's growth ("magister tenens baculum lauri vel coruli illius anni..."). More details are provided in chapter CXXXIX: "But the wand should have four sides. On one side should be written 'Adonay'; on the second side 'Sabaoth'; on the third, 'Hiskiros'; on the fourth 'Emanuel.' On the middle of the wand, make the pentagon figure of Solomon, and where the wand is held, a cross, and thus it will be prepared for sacred and wonderful works." (My translation, not in Royal ms).
Very similar is the sceptrum (scepter) in manuscripts of the Pseudo-Bacon (Roger) treatise Thesaurus spirituum, which instructs that it should be of bay (laurel) wood, "neere as bigg as your arme at the hand and it must be just a cubit longe, and the barke taken off it." (Wellcome 110, fol. 8r).
According to the Sworn Book of Honorius (Chap CXXXII), the magician's wand or staff is made of laurel or hazel, likewise of one year's growth ("magister tenens baculum lauri vel coruli illius anni..."). More details are provided in chapter CXXXIX: "But the wand should have four sides. On one side should be written 'Adonay'; on the second side 'Sabaoth'; on the third, 'Hiskiros'; on the fourth 'Emanuel.' On the middle of the wand, make the pentagon figure of Solomon, and where the wand is held, a cross, and thus it will be prepared for sacred and wonderful works." (My translation, not in Royal ms).
Very similar is the sceptrum (scepter) in manuscripts of the Pseudo-Bacon (Roger) treatise Thesaurus spirituum, which instructs that it should be of bay (laurel) wood, "neere as bigg as your arme at the hand and it must be just a cubit longe, and the barke taken off it." (Wellcome 110, fol. 8r).
Abognazar specifies two types of bâton are needed for magical operations: one for operations of Venus (made of elder), and another for all other operations calling for a bâton.
Bâton pour toutes les Opérations.Bâton pour les Opérations de Venus.
In Clavicules du Roi Salomon par Armadel, Livre III (Lansdowne MS. 1202), the "key to the work" is a triangular wand made of hazel.
The Lesser Key of Solomon (Book 1: Goetia) recommends holding a hazel stick in the hand during the operation of Bileth, for upholding one's courage. This is based on Weyer "baculum corili" (hazel staff). The passage in Reginald Scot translates baculum as "bat", but it could mean rod, staff, or stick.
In Le Grand Grimoire the main ritual implement is called la baguette mystérieuse, ou la Verge Foudroyante (the mysterious wand, or blasting rod) "which causes the spirits to tremble; which God also used to arm his angel when Adam and Eve were driven out of the earthly paradise; wherewith, finally, he smote the rebellious angels, precipitating their ambitions into the most appalling gulfs by the power of this very rod -- of this rod which collects the clouds, disperses tempests, averts lightning, or precipitates each and all upon any portion of the earth at the pleasure of its director." (tr. Waite, BCM) It is made of "wild hazel which has never borne fruit; its length should be nineteen and a half inches" with a forked end and magnetized steel caps on the pointed ends.
According to Franz Bardon (1909-1958), one of the most important occultists and magicians of the twentieth century, "the most important aid in ritual magic is, and always will be, the magic wand." Grillot de Givry ( Witchcraft, Magic, and Alchemy, p. 308) shows a magical operation which features a "wand of poplar-wood, 'half without bark'."
Summary of woods used for magical wands
Acacia
According to Franz Bardon, "the wood of an oak or an acacia, too, is an excellent material for making a magic wand."
Almond
This wood is specified in the Book of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage. The wand of the magician may be made of any nut wood according to the Key of Solomon. According to Agrippa (OP1.26), almond and other woods of nut trees are associated with the planet Jupiter. Levi recommends the magic wand be made of almond or hazel.
Bâton pour toutes les Opérations.Bâton pour les Opérations de Venus.
In Clavicules du Roi Salomon par Armadel, Livre III (Lansdowne MS. 1202), the "key to the work" is a triangular wand made of hazel.
The Lesser Key of Solomon (Book 1: Goetia) recommends holding a hazel stick in the hand during the operation of Bileth, for upholding one's courage. This is based on Weyer "baculum corili" (hazel staff). The passage in Reginald Scot translates baculum as "bat", but it could mean rod, staff, or stick.
In Le Grand Grimoire the main ritual implement is called la baguette mystérieuse, ou la Verge Foudroyante (the mysterious wand, or blasting rod) "which causes the spirits to tremble; which God also used to arm his angel when Adam and Eve were driven out of the earthly paradise; wherewith, finally, he smote the rebellious angels, precipitating their ambitions into the most appalling gulfs by the power of this very rod -- of this rod which collects the clouds, disperses tempests, averts lightning, or precipitates each and all upon any portion of the earth at the pleasure of its director." (tr. Waite, BCM) It is made of "wild hazel which has never borne fruit; its length should be nineteen and a half inches" with a forked end and magnetized steel caps on the pointed ends.
According to Franz Bardon (1909-1958), one of the most important occultists and magicians of the twentieth century, "the most important aid in ritual magic is, and always will be, the magic wand." Grillot de Givry ( Witchcraft, Magic, and Alchemy, p. 308) shows a magical operation which features a "wand of poplar-wood, 'half without bark'."
Summary of woods used for magical wands
Acacia
According to Franz Bardon, "the wood of an oak or an acacia, too, is an excellent material for making a magic wand."
Almond
This wood is specified in the Book of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage. The wand of the magician may be made of any nut wood according to the Key of Solomon. According to Agrippa (OP1.26), almond and other woods of nut trees are associated with the planet Jupiter. Levi recommends the magic wand be made of almond or hazel.
Almond Wand
Apple Sacred to Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.26). The druidic wizard Mannanàn Mac Lir carried a wand of apple ( Peter Berresford Ellis, A Brief History of the Druids, New York, Carroll & Graf, 2002, p. 249.).
Ash
Sacred to Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.26). According to Franz Bardon, a magic wand made of ash is especially to be used in healing people. Yates recounts details of an Irish "fairy doctor" -- one whose mystical power is received from fairies -- who observed many traditional practices, including carrying a wand of ash during prayer.Bay(See laurel.)
Beech
Sacred to Jupiter (per Agrippa, OP1.26).
Box
According to the Key of Solomon box and oak have "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Jupiter. According to MC this is a sacred tree associated with the zodiacal sign of Libra.
Buckthorn
Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Aquarius (MC).Cane (L.arundo donax)The staff of the magician may be made of cane according to the Key of Solomon.
Cedar
According to the Key of Solomon cornel and cedar have "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Mars.
Chestnut
Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Leo (MC).
Cornel
According to the Key of Solomon cornel and cedar have "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Mars.CypressUsed to make a magic circle for the experiment of the Black Hen (Fr. poule noire, It. gallina nera) found in several grimoires.
Dogwood
Sacred to Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.26). Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Scorpio (MC).
Ebony
Ebony is named as the wood of Hermes in one ancient Greek spell (Faraone, p. 202.) This wood is specified by Trithemius in his treatise on invoking angels to appear in a crystal. The Egyptian king Nectanebus used a rod or wand of ebony along with magic formulae to animate models of his enemies and attack them. (Budge, 1930, p. 488; 1971, p. 92.) An Ebony wand is used in the Graeco-Egyptian spell PGM I.335 (Betz p. 12).Elder or elderberry (L.sambucus)The staff of the magician may be made of elder according to the Key of Solomon. Grimorium Verum specifies a wand of elder should be used in preparing the parchment, and is also used in preparing the pentacles and magic rings. According to the method of Abognazar a special staff of elder is used for operations of Venus only. According to Franz Bardon, "the wand made of elder-wood, proves, on account of its analogy to Saturn, especially efficient when calling up or evoking elemental spirits and demons."
Elm
Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Pisces (MC).Fig, WhiteSacred to Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.26).HazelMultiple sources attest the use of Hazel for the magic wand, including the Key of Solomon, Weyer, Goetia, Grand Grimoire, and Levi. According to the Sworn Book of Honorius (Chap CXXXII), the magician's wand or staff is made of laurel or hazel. Per Agrippa, sacred to Mercury, and also to Jupiter (OP1.26 and OP1.29). According to MC this is a sacred tree associated with the zodiacal sign of Cancer. According to the Key of Solomon hazel has "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Mercury. Grimorium Verum specifies wands of hazel and elder should be used in preparing the parchment. The Grand Grimoire includes a divining method using a hazel rod or wand. According to Bardon, "hazelnut or willow are to be used for a wishing-wand. The wishing-wand is a modification of the magic wand."
Holly
Holly is the whitest of all woods, and has been used in making piano keys. It was considered sacred by the druids, and played a part in the magic of the Greeks and Romans. It was especially suitable for divination. In early Europe, holly and other thorny plants were believed to repel all evil spirits. (Gale, p. 2.) The same apotropaic properties were noted by Pliny the Elder (23-79 CE).
Holm-oak
Sacred to Jupiter (per Agrippa, OP1.26). A rod of this material is used in the operation of the magic garters, according to Abognazar.
Horse chestnut
Sacred to Jupiter, according to Agrippa (OP1.26).JuniperAccording to the Key of Solomon juniper and pine "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Saturn.
Laurel
According to the Sworn Book of Honorius (Chap CXXXII), the magician's wand or staff is made of laurel or hazel. Wands of laurel are found in multiple spells in the Magical Papyri. Called "Apollo's holy plant of presage" and "Phoibos' mistress" (Betz pp. 15, 110, 112) A sprig of laurel held in the right hand is said to be a protective charm (PGM I, Betz op. cit. p. 10). Also used in Graeco-Egyptian spells PGM I.335, II.6, II.22 (Betz p. 12, 13). According to the Key of Solomon laurel has "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of the Sun. According to MC this is a sacred tree associated with the zodiacal sign of Gemini. On magical uses of laurel see also L. Deubner, Kleine Schriften zur Klassischen Altertumskunde (Königstein: Hain, 1982, p. 401-2.) According to Porphyry (On Images, fragment 8), laurel "is full of fire, and therefore hated by daemons."According to Pseudo-Bacon, the magical scepter must be made of a bay (laurel) tree. (Ad. 36674, fol. 73r; Sloane 3850, fol. 98v; Wellcome 110, fol. 8r.)
Myrtle
According to the Key of Solomon myrtle has "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Venus. Marvin Meyer's book Ancient Christian Magic includes a spell which involves a branch of myrtle held in the right hand (p. 272). The use of a Myrtle branch is also found in the Graeco-Egyptian spell mentioned above (Betz, p. 5.) According to MC this is a sacred tree associated with the zodiacal sign of Taurus.
Oak
Sacred to Jupiter, according to Agrippa. According to the Key of Solomon box and oak have "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Jupiter. According to Franz Bardon, "the wood of an oak or an acacia, too, is an excellent material for making a magic wand."OleumSacred tree associated with Jupiter, according to Agrippa, OP1.26.
Olive
Sacred to the Moon and Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.24, OP1.26). Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Aries (MC). Wands of olive are also found in the Greek Magical Papyri (e.g. Betz, p. 109.) According to Butler (p. 145) Casanova (1725-1798) used a magic wand made of olive wood, approximately 18 inches long.PalmA twig of palm is held in the right hand during a ritual described in the Sixth and Seventh Books of Moses (T2). Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Sagittarius (MC).
Pear Sacred to Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.26). Sacred tree associated with the Zodiacal sign of Virgo (MC).
Pine
According to the Key of Solomon juniper and pine "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of Saturn. According to MC this is a sacred tree associated with the zodiacal sign of Capricorn.
Plum
Sacred to Jupiter (Agrippa, OP1.26).PomegranateThis wood is also mentioned as acceptable for the baresman in Zoroastrian ritual.
Poplar Tree
Sacred to Jupiter, according to Agrippa. Grillot de Givry (Witchcraft, Magic & Alchemy, p. 308) shows a magical operation which features a "wand of poplar-wood, 'half without bark'."
Quince
This wood is specified for the staff of the magician according to La Vera Clavicola del Re Salomone .
Rosewood
Mathers included rosewood in his translation of the Key of Solomon, however this was a mistranslation of the French word "roseau" (another word for cane or reed). Tree Sacred to Jupiter (per Agrippa, OP1.26).Tamarisk Zoroastrian magi
Walnut
The wand of the magician may be made of any nut wood according to the Key of Solomon
Magic wand made of Walnut -- "La baguette magique de pouvoir sur une légion de démons."
Willow
According to the Key of Solomon willow has "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of the Moon. According to Bardon, "hazelnut or willow are to be used for a wishing-wand. The wishing-wand is a modification of the magic wand.... In making magic wands willow twigs may also be used for any type, for the willow is a very good fluid condenser." Giordano Bruno's third image of Venus carries a willow wand (De Imaginum Compositione (1591) Book 2, ch 13.Wormwood Used in Graeco-Egyptian spell PGM III.704 (Betz p. 36).
Yew
Traditionally considered a sacred tree among the Irish, the yew deeply rooted in Irish folklore. It has long been known to have toxic properties.
The length
According to Pierre Mora's edition of Les Véritables Clavicules de Salomon, the wand should be one and a half feet in length, and an inch thick. This accords well with Franz Bardon's statements that it should be between 3/8 and 3/4 inches in diameter, and about 12-20 inches long.
The Avesta mentions the greatest length of the baresman twigs is the height of a knee, though ancient art shows it approximately the length of the arm (see above). Modern barsoms are much shorter, as short as nine inches.
The wording in Abramelin is somewhat confusing on this point. Perhaps half the length of your arm is intended: "Auch brauchst Du ein reines glattes Stäbchen, ungefähr einen kleinen Finger dick und eine Elle lang, von Mandelbaum." (You also need a small staff, pure and smooth, approximately a small finger thick, and a elle/yard long, from almond-wood.)
According to Ad. 36674, fol. 73r it should be in thickness "neere as big as your arm at the hand, and it must be just a cubit long, and the barke taken away, and remain white without painting."
The Grand Grimoire specifies a length of nineteen and an half inches.
Joseph Anton Herpentil, in his Epitome of supernatural magic, That is R. P. S. F. (1519) specifies the wand (or rod) should be 4 spans long.
Additional materials added to the wand
The literature includes some examples of adding materials to the wand to enhance certain characteristics. Here are some of the more commonly ascribed magical attributes of materials.
Aetites
Stone associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).
Amber
Associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).
Amethyst
Stone associated with Scorpio (MC).
Beryl
Stone associated with Libra (MC).
Birthwort
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Pisces (MC).
Calamint
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Virgo (MC).
Carbuncle
Stone associated with the Sun (MC).
Carnelian
Stone sacred to Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).
Chalcedony
Stone associated with the zodiacal sign Cancer (MC).
Chrisophrase
Stone associated with Capricorn (MC).CockBird associated with Gemini (MC).
Comfrey
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Cancer (MC).CopperMetal associated with Venus (MC). According to Pseudo-Bacon, the magical scepter must have affixed to the end a lamin of copper with certain symbols on it.
Coral
Associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).CrowSacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Sagittarius (MC).CrystalStone associated with Mercury and with Aquarius(MC).
Cyclamen
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Leo (MC).Date palm used to bind the tamarisk wands of the magi.
Dock
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Capricorn (MC).
Dove
Bird associated with Venus and with Taurus (MC).
Dragonwort
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Aquarius (MC).
Eagle
Bird associated with Jupiter and Leo (MC).
Emerald
Stone associated with Venus and Virgo (Agippa, OP1.28, MC).
Garlic
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Libra (MC).
Gold
Metal associated with the Sun (MC).
Goose
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Libra (MC).
Granite
Stone associated with Saturn (MC).
Heliotrope
Herb associated with the Sun (MC)
Heron
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Capricorn (MC).
Ibis
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Cancer (MC).
Iron
Metal associated with Mars (MC). Levi recommends a core of magnetized iron.
Jacinth
Stone associated with Sagittarius (MC).
Jasper
Stone associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28), or Leo (MC).
Jove's Beard(Silver-leaved Woodblade plant)
Herb associated with Jupiter (MC).Lapis LazuliStone associated with Venus (Agrippa OP1.28).
Lapwing
Bird associated with Saturn (MC).
Lead
Metal associated with Saturn (MC).
Maidenhair
Herb associated with Venus (MC)
Metal
Grand Grimoire recommends metal caps.
Monkshood
Herb associated with Mars
Owl
Bird associated with the Moon and with Aries (MC).
Peacock
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Aquarius (MC).
Pimpernel
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Sagittarius (MC).
Ruby
Stone associated with Mars (MC).
Sage
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Aries (MC).
Sapphire
Stone associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28), also with the Moon and with Pisces(MC).
Sard
Stone associated with Taurus (MC).
Sardonyx
Stone associated with Aries (MC).SelenotropeHerb associated with the Moon (MC)SempervivumHerb associated with Saturn (MC)SilverMetal associated with the Moon (MC).
Sparrow
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Virgo (MC).
St. John's Wort
Sibly specifies that this be bound to the top of the wand for use in necromantic operations. (p. 1106)
Stork
Bird associated with Mercury (MC).
Swan
Bird associated with the Sun and Pisces(MC).
Tin
Metal associated with Jupiter (MC).
Topaz
Stone associated with Jupiter and with Gemini(MC).
Tuthia
Gem stone associated with Jupiter (Agrippa).
Vervain (Bending)
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Gemini (MC). Vervain was sacred and carried in religious processions according to several ancient writers (cf. Meyer & Smith, Ancient Christian Magic, p. 63.)
Vervain (Upright)
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Taurus (MC).
Vulture
Bird associated with Mars (MC).
Woodpecker
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Scorpio (MC).
Wormwood
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Scorpio (MC).
Other elements
Bark
Half of the wand is left covered with bark in the method cited by de Givry.
Letters
Trithemius specifies that the wand should have certain Hebrew characters written in gold.
Magical symbols The Greek Magical Papyri directs the magician to write the sacred or mystical names of gods or angels on the wand (for example see Betz p. 14). See Key of Solomon for magical symbols for the wand.
According to the Key of Solomon willow has "some quality referring especially unto the spirits" of the Moon. According to Bardon, "hazelnut or willow are to be used for a wishing-wand. The wishing-wand is a modification of the magic wand.... In making magic wands willow twigs may also be used for any type, for the willow is a very good fluid condenser." Giordano Bruno's third image of Venus carries a willow wand (De Imaginum Compositione (1591) Book 2, ch 13.Wormwood Used in Graeco-Egyptian spell PGM III.704 (Betz p. 36).
Yew
Traditionally considered a sacred tree among the Irish, the yew deeply rooted in Irish folklore. It has long been known to have toxic properties.
The length
According to Pierre Mora's edition of Les Véritables Clavicules de Salomon, the wand should be one and a half feet in length, and an inch thick. This accords well with Franz Bardon's statements that it should be between 3/8 and 3/4 inches in diameter, and about 12-20 inches long.
The Avesta mentions the greatest length of the baresman twigs is the height of a knee, though ancient art shows it approximately the length of the arm (see above). Modern barsoms are much shorter, as short as nine inches.
The wording in Abramelin is somewhat confusing on this point. Perhaps half the length of your arm is intended: "Auch brauchst Du ein reines glattes Stäbchen, ungefähr einen kleinen Finger dick und eine Elle lang, von Mandelbaum." (You also need a small staff, pure and smooth, approximately a small finger thick, and a elle/yard long, from almond-wood.)
According to Ad. 36674, fol. 73r it should be in thickness "neere as big as your arm at the hand, and it must be just a cubit long, and the barke taken away, and remain white without painting."
The Grand Grimoire specifies a length of nineteen and an half inches.
Joseph Anton Herpentil, in his Epitome of supernatural magic, That is R. P. S. F. (1519) specifies the wand (or rod) should be 4 spans long.
Additional materials added to the wand
The literature includes some examples of adding materials to the wand to enhance certain characteristics. Here are some of the more commonly ascribed magical attributes of materials.
Aetites
Stone associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).
Amber
Associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).
Amethyst
Stone associated with Scorpio (MC).
Beryl
Stone associated with Libra (MC).
Birthwort
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Pisces (MC).
Calamint
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Virgo (MC).
Carbuncle
Stone associated with the Sun (MC).
Carnelian
Stone sacred to Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).
Chalcedony
Stone associated with the zodiacal sign Cancer (MC).
Chrisophrase
Stone associated with Capricorn (MC).CockBird associated with Gemini (MC).
Comfrey
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Cancer (MC).CopperMetal associated with Venus (MC). According to Pseudo-Bacon, the magical scepter must have affixed to the end a lamin of copper with certain symbols on it.
Coral
Associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28).CrowSacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Sagittarius (MC).CrystalStone associated with Mercury and with Aquarius(MC).
Cyclamen
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Leo (MC).Date palm used to bind the tamarisk wands of the magi.
Dock
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Capricorn (MC).
Dove
Bird associated with Venus and with Taurus (MC).
Dragonwort
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Aquarius (MC).
Eagle
Bird associated with Jupiter and Leo (MC).
Emerald
Stone associated with Venus and Virgo (Agippa, OP1.28, MC).
Garlic
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Libra (MC).
Gold
Metal associated with the Sun (MC).
Goose
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Libra (MC).
Granite
Stone associated with Saturn (MC).
Heliotrope
Herb associated with the Sun (MC)
Heron
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Capricorn (MC).
Ibis
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Cancer (MC).
Iron
Metal associated with Mars (MC). Levi recommends a core of magnetized iron.
Jacinth
Stone associated with Sagittarius (MC).
Jasper
Stone associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28), or Leo (MC).
Jove's Beard(Silver-leaved Woodblade plant)
Herb associated with Jupiter (MC).Lapis LazuliStone associated with Venus (Agrippa OP1.28).
Lapwing
Bird associated with Saturn (MC).
Lead
Metal associated with Saturn (MC).
Maidenhair
Herb associated with Venus (MC)
Metal
Grand Grimoire recommends metal caps.
Monkshood
Herb associated with Mars
Owl
Bird associated with the Moon and with Aries (MC).
Peacock
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Aquarius (MC).
Pimpernel
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Sagittarius (MC).
Ruby
Stone associated with Mars (MC).
Sage
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Aries (MC).
Sapphire
Stone associated with Venus (Agrippa, OP1.28), also with the Moon and with Pisces(MC).
Sard
Stone associated with Taurus (MC).
Sardonyx
Stone associated with Aries (MC).SelenotropeHerb associated with the Moon (MC)SempervivumHerb associated with Saturn (MC)SilverMetal associated with the Moon (MC).
Sparrow
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Virgo (MC).
St. John's Wort
Sibly specifies that this be bound to the top of the wand for use in necromantic operations. (p. 1106)
Stork
Bird associated with Mercury (MC).
Swan
Bird associated with the Sun and Pisces(MC).
Tin
Metal associated with Jupiter (MC).
Topaz
Stone associated with Jupiter and with Gemini(MC).
Tuthia
Gem stone associated with Jupiter (Agrippa).
Vervain (Bending)
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Gemini (MC). Vervain was sacred and carried in religious processions according to several ancient writers (cf. Meyer & Smith, Ancient Christian Magic, p. 63.)
Vervain (Upright)
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Taurus (MC).
Vulture
Bird associated with Mars (MC).
Woodpecker
Sacred bird associated with the zodiacal sign of Scorpio (MC).
Wormwood
Sacred plant associated with the Zodiacal sign of Scorpio (MC).
Other elements
Bark
Half of the wand is left covered with bark in the method cited by de Givry.
Letters
Trithemius specifies that the wand should have certain Hebrew characters written in gold.
Magical symbols The Greek Magical Papyri directs the magician to write the sacred or mystical names of gods or angels on the wand (for example see Betz p. 14). See Key of Solomon for magical symbols for the wand.
How to use the magic wand
Most magic texts agree that the wand should be held in the right hand while praying, or while calling or addressing spirits. Christopher A. Faraone gives an ancient Greek spell wherein the divinity or spirit is invoked while holding a branch of laurel in the right hand, and an ebony staff in the left. When dismissing the spirits, the hands are switched. (Compare Meyer, p. 272.) This also has a parallel in PGM I.335 (Betz p. 12). In this use it is primarily used as a defensive weapon. It is used to strike the bowl in some divination methods. In Zoroastrian ritual the gaze and the ritual power ('amal) is focussed on the barsom. It is also held in the right hand.
Most magic texts agree that the wand should be held in the right hand while praying, or while calling or addressing spirits. Christopher A. Faraone gives an ancient Greek spell wherein the divinity or spirit is invoked while holding a branch of laurel in the right hand, and an ebony staff in the left. When dismissing the spirits, the hands are switched. (Compare Meyer, p. 272.) This also has a parallel in PGM I.335 (Betz p. 12). In this use it is primarily used as a defensive weapon. It is used to strike the bowl in some divination methods. In Zoroastrian ritual the gaze and the ritual power ('amal) is focussed on the barsom. It is also held in the right hand.
