===> History of Magic Squares

Wu of Hsia, founder of the Chinese dynasty which bears his name; discovered a tortoise who's shell had the markings of a perfect (3 x 3) Magic Square. This square, known as Lo Shu, or ?River Picture? became the basis of the I Ching, the Ki, and other forms of Chinese divination.

In the West, thought the Middle Ages, magic Squares were engraved on silver and sold as talismans. They were regarded as a protection from disease. In India, Magic Squares date back to the Eleventh century.

In the West, Wu's Magic Square became the ?Square of Saturn?. Cronelius Agrippa studied and named a series of Magic Squares for the various Planets, and ascribed various proprieties to the squares based on their connection with these planets in Astrology.

===> Physic Properties of Magic Squares

Magic Squares have (2) properties which make them perfect as magical formulas for creating talismans: their symmetry, and repetition.

Magic Squares have the property of symmetric resolution. By their nature, they form a completed pattern. The fact that every row, column, and diagonal of the figure adds up to the same total, gives them balance. The universe as a whole is a system in which we draw forth balance and completion. The very cycle of Life is seen as a never-ending circle, a continuing pattern which is repeated over and over; A Magic Square models this pattern.

Magic Squares, also give us endless repetition. We can add each row and column in turn, and arrive at the same result over and over. This is the very nature of spells; a charm or prayer which is repeated over and over to build momentum, and draw power for a working.

===> Constructing a Magic Square

One of the wonderful things about Magic Squares, is that anyone can construct them. You don't have to be a great artist to draw them, they're made completely out of numbers. With just a little research you can create your own personal talisman in no time at all.