Magical Written Talismans in Islamic Culture
Textual and Symbolic Reading
This study aims to examine the historical background, conceptual framework,
and symbolic structure of written talismans in the Islamic magical
tradition. The first section addresses the concepts of magic, amulets,
and talismans, focusing on the materials used in their preparation, their
shaping, functions, and working systems. Furthermore, the formation
process of the talisman tradition is presented within its historical context
by evaluating fundamental sources and literature on the subject.
The second section analyzes written talismans through examples. In this
context, special attention is given to the use of alphabets in talismans,
analyzing the function of the Hebrew and Western esoteric alphabets, as
well as the Arabic alphabet and the tradition of letter science, in talismanic
texts. Abjad calculations, letter combinations, and the simultaneous use
of different alphabets are evaluated. In addition, the symbolic positions of
vefks (talismans), geometric shapes, seal/hatem applications, and human
and animal figures within talismans are examined with examples.
The study also examines how sacred texts, divine names, Quranic verses,
prayers, and the Beautiful Names of God (Asma al-Husna) are incorporated
into talisman compositions, and how these elements not only
give the text a religious appearance but also function in the production
of legitimacy and authority. In this context, the points of intersection
between religious discourse and magical practices are addressed, and
the relationship between belief, symbolism, and persuasion processes
in talisman texts is explored.
The study selects talisman examples containing symbolic elements and
subjects them to detailed analysis. The symbols and other magical elements
in these examples are examined comparatively and evaluated
within their historical contexts. Based on these analyses, inferences are
made about the meanings societies attribute to talismans, the transformations
talismans have undergone over time, and the intellectual and
cultural foundations upon which the claims of influence attributed to
these objects are based.
Keywords: History of Religions; Talisman; Amulet; Symbol; Magic