Magick in Theory and Practice (Section 1)

IV. The knocks or knells are ail of the same character. They may be described collectively — the différence between then consists only in this, that the instrument with which they are made seals them with its own spécial properties. It is of no great importance (even so) whether they are made by clapping the hands or stamping the feet, by strokes of one of the weapons, or by the theoretically appropriate instrument, the bell. It may nevertheless be admitted that they become more important in the ceremony if the Magician considers it worth while to take up 1 an instrument whose single purpose is to produce them. Let it first be laid down that a knock asserts a connection between the Magician and the object which he strikes. Thus the use of the bell, or of the hands, means that the Magician wishes to impress the atmosphère of the whole circle with what has been or is about to be done. He wishes to formulate his will in Sound, and radiate it in every direction ; moreover, to influence that which lives by breath in the sense of his purpose, and to summon it to bear witness to his Word. The hands are used as symbols of his executive power, the bell to represent his consciousness exalted into music. To strike with the wand is to utter the fiat of création ; the cup vibrâtes with his delight in receiving spiritual wine. A blow with the dagger is like the signal for battle. The disk is used to express the throwing down of the price of one’s purchase. To stamp with the foot is to déclaré one’s mastery of the matter in hand. Similarly, any other form of giving knocks has its own virtue. From the above examples the intelligent student will hâve perceived the method of interpreting each individual case that may corne in question. As above said, the object struck is the object impressed. Thus, a blow upon the altar affirms that he has complied with the laws of his operation. To strike the lamp is to summon the Light divine. Thus for the rest. It must also be observed that many combinations of ideas are made possible by this convention. To strike the wand within the cup is to apply the Creative will to its proper complément, and so i. Any action not purely rhythmical is a disturbance. - 83