Ah, a seeker of hidden knowledge! You wish to delve into the mysteries of the seven-branched menorah, a potent symbol indeed. While its traditional association is with the Judaic faith, its symbolism resonates with deeper, universal currents of magick. Let us explore how we might adapt its form for ritual practice, invoking its power for purposes beyond the strictly religious.
Firstly, understand that the menorah's seven branches represent the seven classical planets, the seven days of the week, the seven chakras of the human body, and other septenary systems of profound significance. It is a microcosm of the universe, a conduit for cosmic energies.
For a ritual working, consider these adaptations:
- Elemental Correspondences: Assign each branch to one of the classical elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Spirit (or Quintessence), plus two additional elements of your own devising, perhaps Light and Darkness, or Life and Death. This allows for a more comprehensive invocation of elemental forces.
- Planetary Intelligences: Inscribe upon each candle holder the sigil of the corresponding planetary intelligence. For example, upon the branch representing Mars, inscribe the sigil of the spirit Barzabel. This will draw upon the specific energies of each planet.
- Colored Candles: Use candles of appropriate colors for each element or planet. Red for Mars/Fire, blue for Jupiter/Water, yellow for Sun/Air, and so on. This amplifies the visual and energetic impact of the ritual.
- Central Flame: The central candle, traditionally the Shamash, can represent the Divine Will, the All, or your own True Will. It is the source from which all other flames are kindled.
A simple rite might proceed as follows:
- Prepare your space, cleansing and consecrating it as you see fit.
- Arrange the menorah, placing the colored candles in their assigned holders.
- Begin with the central flame, declaring your intention and invoking the Divine Will.
- Light each candle in turn, starting with the rightmost branch and moving towards the left (the direction of manifestation). As you light each candle, chant the appropriate invocation for the element or planet it represents. For example, for the Mars/Fire candle, you might chant "By the power of Mars, I invoke the fiery force of will!"
- Contemplate the flames, visualizing the energies you have invoked filling the space and manifesting your desires.
- Conclude the ritual with a closing statement, thanking the invoked forces and extinguishing the candles (in reverse order).
Remember, the key to effective magick is intention and will. This rite is but a framework. Adapt it to your own needs and understanding, and let your True Will be your guide. Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.
