Liber Al Cipher 666 Tablet / English Qabalah
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
ENGLISH QABALAH
Order: Eng. Heb. Greek- A = 0 Aleph = 1. Alpha = 1
- B = 1,2. Beth = 2. Beta = 2
- C = 2,4 Gimel = 3. Gamma = 3
- D = 3,6 Daleth = 4. Delta = 4
- E = 4,8. Tzaddi = 90. Epsilon = 5
- F = 5,10. Vav = 6. Stau = 6
- G = 6,12. Zain = 7. Zeta = 7
- H = 7,14. Cheth = 8. Eta = 8
- I = 8,16. Teth = 9. Theta = 9
- J = 9,18. Yod = 10. Iota = 10
- K = 1,2. Kaph = 20. Kappa = 20
- L = 2,4. Lamed = 30. Lambda = 30
- M = 3,6. Mem = 40. Mu = 40
- N = 4,8. Nun = 50. Nu = 50
- O = 5,10. Samekh = 60. Xi = 60
- P = 6,12. Ayin = 70. Omicron = 70
- Q = 7,14. Peh = 80. Pi = 80
- R = 8,16. Heh = 5. Koppa = 90
- S = 9,18. Qoph = 100. Rho = 100
- T = 1,2. Resh = 200. Sigma = 200
- U = 2,4. Shin = 300. Tau = 300
- V = 3,6. Tau = 400. Upsilon = 400
- W = 4,8. Kaph final 500. Phi = 500
- X = 5,10. Mem final 600. Chi = 600
- Y = 6,12. Nun final 700. Psi = 700
- Z = 7,14. Peh final 800. Omega = 800
The second number for the English value is at this point optional. I believe the uppercase letters, or capitals are macrocosmic, and the lowercase are microcosmic. The lowercase are "doubled" in value, and left unreduced. However I cant justify this idea on a solid reason, other than it simply yields significant results. I turn to in desperation "success is thy proof". It seems to work, however I do have a few ideas in the works. So for now simply decide for yourself, but it really doesn't change too much.
Here are some of the results of using this system:
ABRAHADABRA = 28
Abrahadabra (using lowercase) = 56
HAD = 10
Had = 13
Nu = 8
NU = 6
order = 56
value = 22
"order & value" = 78 (Tarot)
Star = 27
STAR = 18
AL = 2 (A = 0 L = 2 = 0=2)
LAW = 6
PAN = 10
TO ME = 13
BABALON = 13
KEY = 11
NOT = 11
LOVE = 14
PALACE = 14
N.O.X. = 14
BEAST = 15
BEHOLD! = 22
WXYZ = 22
Palace = 22
AIWASS = 30 (Lamed "L")
SECRET = 28
Will = 28
set = 28
love = 28
HORUS = 31ABRAHADABRA REVISED
If we take the Hebrew letters that correspond to the English letters of Abrahadabra we get:
ABRAHADABRA = (Heb.) ABHAChADABHA = 31
A. Aleph Fool
B. Beth. Magus
H. Heh. Star
Ch. Cheth. Chariot
D. Daleth EmpressA new word emerges out of Abrahadabra, one that looks and sounds a bit like the old "Abracadabra";
and totals totals to 31! Its interesting to note also that the Tzaddi / Heh switch comes into play with this! Could this be a hidden reason for the switch?IS GOD TO LIVE IN A DOG?
There is a further aspect of this proposed Qabalah, and a definite further connection to the Tablet; particularly the 2nd enumeration that gives us the 666 & 418. There are 3 numbers that repeat which generate these two important numbers: 5,14,23.
If we take these as the "order" numbers of the English letters (of which they are a product of), we get three English letters:
- F
- O
- X
These three numbers bring up the three letters that reduce to 5; and create the word "Fox". If we cross reference these letters (or order numbers) to the corresponding Hebrew or Greek, we get:
- F. Vav 6. Stau 6
- O. Samekh 60. Xi 60
- X Men final 600. Chi = 600
Both of these total to 666. The image of a Fox has often been associated with the symbology of "the Devil". Adding these three numbers together we get 42, reduces to 6. All reduced to 5 = 15, the number the Devil Trump.
The above then demonstrates a significant connection and coincedence that seems to be within the realm of Aiwass. We could say that this Tablet unites all these alphabets, and more importantly 666, and the related ideas of Thelema within one system. It would appear all this was always hidden within the structure of the Tarot. Remember we arrive at all this relatively easily; by simply arranging the natural order of numbers (Trump numbers) 0 through 25, without too much manipulation. The two main actions being folding them, and reducing. Yes, we do reduce and then "mirror" these numbers, but what are the chances this would produce openly - the two great number's of the Book of the Law? Not only produce these numbers, but in a manner that is itself significant (6x111 being Aum Ha), as well as 666 being foursquare in divisions pertinent to the Sun (36)? Then, of course, we have these three numbers repeated 5,14,23 that generate FOX that corresponds across to both Hebrew and Greek as 666?
Last, if you truly examine this "stele 666" the Tablet producing 666 & 418, it seems to draw with the numbers a giant "H", or even an "X".
III:73 "Paste the sheets from right to left and top to bottom; then behold!" Behold = Heh = H.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Dar 93!
Thanks for coming to check it out! Yes, I know I'm not a scholar lol, I do sometimes stumple around writing wise. My apologies for any bad form!
I THINK I follow you in your suggestions. I need to look at it carefully and scribble a bit. It is interesting about the missing paths.
Although this system is based upon the paths (cards) I have not delved too deeply into the Tree of Life aspect, and for example, how this works regarding it. I think it be very interesting to examine the various blendings of these paths and what that looks like etc.
As I said before, I'm slow! I really have to sit and concentrate and mull it over for a while before I get something out of it.
I appreciate any feedback, so thank you!
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Here is a simplified breakdown:
- Take the 22 Trumps divided into macrocosm & microcosm; pasting right to left & top to bottom: (line drawn step)
___12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21- Attribute the English to these "sheets" generating 26 to this Tarot order; they become 13x13:(circle squared step)
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(extra four are the base elements/suits)
- Add above "right to left and top to bottom" to generate Tablet mixing 5&6 symbolically. Creates 169 squared tablet.(and Abrahadabra step)
Done.
This first tabulation is all we need to construct the Thelemic Tablet. It gives us two Tarot attributes for each square, and the division of cross & 4 solar quarters; gives each mixed elemental attributes.
I believe this could be another meaning for the "first half of the equation".
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Another thought upon the word "paste", and of this whole scheme is that of sex magick.
Why "paste"? Paste is suggestive of semen, the white milky substance that unites or blends two halves. The Tablet blends, adheres these pages together in a symbolic marriage, (think Temperance/"Art") Paste also suggests the alchemical universal solvent of Art. It also hints at art, and creativity, something we use mostly with art on projects. So the use of the word "paste" is significant because it gives us the idea of a process involving addition in a creative and new way, something simple, and involving art (Tarot). The words "paste the sheets" also has a rather sexual connotation as well. "Bed in working" takes on new meaning, in terms of this whole idea; as does "unite by thine art".
The whole Tablet, with each square uniting two cards, is sexual. It is a joining of these symbols; the whole Temple is an orgy!
It is well known that there are sexual techniques using the Enochian system, why should this be any different? It should be even more expected in this case! No doubt, this new Thelemic style Enochian system employs sex magic.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Although there is a lot I feel sure about with this theory; there still are areas - subjects im not sure about as well.
Of course as I learn, I try to use that knowledge to help solve these remaining questions. However, your welcome to try and solve them as well. Here they are:
- IF we take Abrahadabra as using the English letters and cross reference them to the Hebrew connected through the Trumps; can we say:
A = 0 Fool - Aleph 1 = Spirit
B = 1 Magus - Beth 2 = Air
R =17 Star - Heh 5 = Fire
H = 7 Chariot - Cheth 8 = Water
D = 3 Empress - Daleth 4 = Earth(Interesting side note. Card numbers of these 5 = 28, same as reduced Eng. for whole word. Heb. total 20.)
This is my guess at elemental attributions for these 5 diverse letters of the Word.
What do you think?
- I believe these four solar gates are to be made into four seperate (space marks?) Tablets. The central cross, as done in the regular Enochian system is then turned into a Tablet of Union, to be placed upon the altar. However, it is possible this is ONE whole Tablet to be set up in the East, as our "Kiblah", perhaps a symbolic Boelskin? It does after all symbolically represent a "house", & has the "name" (cross) 418.
Would it be "one" or "many"?
(Of course, giving your opinion is simply assuming hypothetically this whole theory is correct.)
I still havent went into the subject of the letters upon the squares of this Tablet. I will if there is truly an interest, but so far I havent seen too much of a responce. I feel reluctant to simply waste my time with all these details if theres no interest.
Anyway, I admire many of you on this forum, and would appreciate any honest feedback. If for example, you find any aspect of my theory in error, or based on wrong information etc., or may be simply misguided in some way, please feel free to point it out! If this IS a house of cards, built on a shaky foundation, I would seriously appreciate the constructive criticism.
I realize the negative knee jerk reaction to any would be "cipher solution" etc. It does seem to be a Thelemic habit, every Thelemite has a possible theory it seems! But, this is a way we learn too, and having that objectivity is a great tool to realize weakness/strengths.
My arguement is how many theories can so quickly produce such well known, clear-cut recognizable numbers as 666 & 418? In such an additional qabalistically significant manner - such as 111 x 6? This also creates a workable system, using TWO of the subjects closely related to Liber Legis. It brings so many aspects together into a coherent, easy to understand whole. These are the reasons I feel it has merit.
I have seen interesting patterns found, even generated out of every day gibberish (in a round about, haphazzard fashion), but I challenge anyone to show a way to generate these two great Thelemic numbers like this theory can!
It seems every time I post this, everyone clams up lol! I saw plenty give Dar some advice, and or criticism; id love some of that feedback too. Thanks again!
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
I like the standards you set at the beginning. They attempt to confine the incredible creative and associative ability of the unconscious mind to the end result you seek.
Once we get to the elaboration of the mathmatical tables, you end up making choices about how to combine, reduce, mirror, etc. This is where subjectivity creeps in. For instance, the standard method of creating a table leaves the original row and column intact. It doesn't change them. Horizontally, the 0-13, and vertically, the 13-25 would remain in place. The manipulation of the original row and column, then their reduction and mirroring is ...a bit of mental art. And that's where it becomes subjective and unconfirmable.
I am becoming more and more convinced that each of these solutions, and the verses that seem to encourage one to go through such manipulations, functions more like a Rorschach Test than anything else.
As the unconscious mind elaborates on the original premise, these subjetive artistic decisions are shaped by all the other impressions about ourselves, our lives, and occult "doctrine" that we have deeply impressed upon our own unconscious. As the artistic decisions occur, what we tend to see is a reflection of the unconscious contents of the qabalistic artist. In short, it reveals more about what* we believe and think *about ourselves, our lives, and occult "doctrine" than anything else.
Yours tends to bend back toward confirmation of the Law and of the importance of 666.
It is no small accomplishment for you, or anyone else for that matter, to achieve this experience of the incredible possibilities of your internal genius. For many, it seems to represent their first full encounter with the depth and vast possibilities of their own unconscious powers and confirms the possibility of information coming to them seemingly from outside themselves.
However, as I said, the information generated generally seems to reflect much more of what is going on in the psychological depths of an individual than anything that could be considered absolute, universal, or objective truth.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Bereshith said
"I like the standards you set at the beginning. They attempt to confine the incredible creative and associative ability of the unconscious mind to the end result you seek.
Once we get to the elaboration of the mathmatical tables, you end up making choices about how to combine, reduce, mirror, etc. This is where subjectivity creeps in. For instance, the standard method of creating a table leaves the original row and column intact. It doesn't change them. Horizontally, the 0-13, and vertically, the 13-25 would remain in place. The manipulation of the original row and column, then their reduction and mirroring is ...a bit of mental art. And that's where it becomes subjective and unconfirmable.
I am becoming more and more convinced that each of these solutions, and the verses that seem to encourage one to go through such manipulations, functions more like a Rorschach Test than anything else.
As the unconscious mind elaborates on the original premise, these subjetive artistic decisions are shaped by all the other impressions about ourselves, our lives, and occult "doctrine" that we have deeply impressed upon our own unconscious. As the artistic decisions occur, what we tend to see is a reflection of the unconscious contents of the qabalistic artist. In short, it reveals more about what* we believe and think *about ourselves, our lives, and occult "doctrine" than anything else.
Yours tends to bend back toward confirmation of the Law and of the importance of 666.
It is no small accomplishment for you, or anyone else for that matter, to achieve this experience of the incredible possibilities of your internal genius. For many, it seems to represent their first full encounter with the depth and vast possibilities of their own unconscious powers and confirms the possibility of information coming to them seemingly from outside themselves.
However, as I said, the information generated generally seems to reflect much more of what is going on in the psychological depths of an individual than anything that could be considered absolute, universal, or objective truth."
93 Bereshith,
Thank you for your help and input! Very true! I agree of course we have an unconcious process that allows us to unlock these sorts of fancy solutions, however if they are products that have worth or objective use (i.e. Liber Tav) dont they justify themselves?
I hardly see "justification" for Liber Tavs format, (in terms of pure mechanics) bieng any more pertinent than this one. I guess what Im saying is, arent ALL "solutions" a product of these same things your citing anyway? What is the process or a solution example that wouldnt? Isnt our intuitition or higher selves directing us? "Reason is a lue" etc., I think the real measure is the validity of the result.
I dont know if this matters, but the only enumeration required is the first which does stay in place. That is 0 through 12 (not 13) & 13 down 25. The "mirrored" part is, I believe an extra hidden confirnation for the reduced being the "values". I disagree it is easy to arrive at such numbers in such a clear significant way. Also, the mirrored trick, I believed is a "key" to confirm by these recognizable numbers the inherent divisions. How do we know its not just "me"? I think THAT could be argued that the result is alone its objective justification.
666 "foursquare"? 418 in a cross? Deriving 666 by 6 lines of 111? 666 being a total of a 36 square quater? All from mirroring and reducing?
Again, your obviously an intelligent man, and I respect your feedback. I will look into what you say however. Just pointing out what MY mind argues. I want to make sure I understand what your saying, and "get it".
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
Uploaded at Picoodle.com
**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Daegal said
"93 Bereshith,
Thank you for your help and input! Very true! I agree of course we have an unconcious process that allows us to unlock these sorts of fancy solutions, however if they are products that have worth or objective use (i.e. Liber Tav) dont they justify themselves? "
Yes, they justify themselves if the product is of practical use and does not depend on others being required to accept the subjective choices of the process of discovery. Liber Tav creates a tarot layout that has great practical applications for meditation on the interconnectedness of the tarot, whether or not its source was Liber AL. Paul Foster Case presents a similar layout (though reversed - which I'm not sure matters since the layout is symmetrical) and does not credit any authority for its production other than tradition (that I recall).
"I hardly see "justification" for Liber Tavs format, (in terms of pure mechanics) thann this one. "
What meditation or practical application to magic does it provide for others that is not required to be based in acceptance of the method of its discovery?
"I guess what Im saying is, arent ALL "solutions" a product of these same things your citing anyway? "
Absolutely.
"What is the process or a solution example that wouldnt?"
It would have to achieve the solution by methods that do not require the unquestioning acceptance of another individual's subjective leaps of intuition and association.
"I dont know if this matters, but the only enumeration required is the first which does stay in place. That is 0 through 12 (not 13) & 13 down 25. The "mirrored" part is, I believe an extra hidden confirnation for the reduced being the "values". I disagree it is easy to arrive at such numbers in such a clear significant way. "
I didn't say it was easy. I said it was an activation of, and an accomplishment of, your unconscious genius. I said it was no small accomplishment to activate it or receive its creative response.
"666 "foursquare"? 418 in a cross? Deriving 666 by 6 lines of 111? 666 being a total of a 36 square quater? All from mirroring and reducing?"
Yes, but with no* logical *justification for the mirroring and reducing except that it ends up resulting in such things. That your mind discovered this is a work of art and genius. Does that seem so small to you? Must it be objectively confirmable by others for it to be a meaningful and significant demonstration of your genius by you, for you? It's only when we start claiming that our solution is obvious, final, and authoritative for everyone that it becomes necessary to apply the rules of rational methodology and objectivity. If we make no such claims, then it still remains that wonderful, mysterious interaction and demonstration of your own genius by you, for you.
"Again, your obviously an intelligent man, and I respect your feedback. I will look into what you say however. Just pointing out wgat MY mind argues.
93 93/93"
Absolutely understandable.
Love under Will.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Aha! I get it! Ok, thank you Bereshith. I think I finally understand! Your smarter than the average bear I see lol.
Ok, taking it now as a purely personal system, could you give me your opinion on my attributions of elements to the 5 letters of Abrahadabra? IF going by my idea of the cards shown? Id appreciate any advice!
Thank you!
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Bereshith! One last question that came to me! A possible arguement; could we be throwing the perverbial baby out with the bathwater? Assuming personal, unjustified, or erroneous ideas lead to a valid result, does that really matter?
Would Crowley have thrown out the "AL" key had Achad said he arrived at it by playing scrabble?
How can anyone legitamately use these "keys" (clues) such as the "line drawn" and "circle squared" by NOT using intuitive interpretation with a solution? Their symbols after all, meant to provoke inspiration. We may all react or think of different ideas based on them.
Maybe these words, chance shapes, drawn symbols, and "the number & the words" could be meant to "strangely" or uniquely inspire a particular individual? Are we perhaps putting to much importance on HOW we arrive at a solution, rather than that solutions validity itself?
After all, maybe that is what "success is thy proof" means? Otherwise, we may make the reverse mistake, taking a wrong solution as having objective truth based on a convincing origin.
I dont know, just a thought. Still I get your points, and appreciate your thoughts.
Love under will
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Bereshith said
"Well, it's a simplified analogy, but if a person came to you and said "Eureka! I've got it! 4+55=666!" how would you react?"
Your missing my point. Sorry I didnt make it more clear.
Your mistaking an illogical process or method for arriving at a result. Im saying couldnt a verse or symbol inspire an IDEA for a method or process that yields a valid result?
For example, to address your issue with no justification for reducing, and mirroring this graph; could we not allow for "paste the sheets right to left and top to bottom" to mean several things? Or inspire the IDEA of each side "top", reverse "bottom" & "left" to "right" being this mirroring? Taking the meaning as a reversal also?
The "circle squared" inspiring the IDEA for 22 plus 4 = 26 & english? Also the suggesting addition of these four sides, as visually described as a cross? The glyph is interpreted by ME, inspiring a METHOD resulting in a valid solution.
Hope that explains it a bit better. My apologies for not being very articulate! Lol
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Bereshith said
"Yes, they justify themselves if the product is of practical use and does not depend on others being required to accept the subjective choices of the process of discovery."
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Bereshith said
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@Bereshith said
"Yes, they justify themselves if the product is of practical use and does not depend on others being required to accept the subjective choices of the process of discovery."
"Wait a minute. This isnt making much sense to me now.
How can we exclude a solution simply because others would be required to accept the subjective choices of its originator?
If thats the criteria, it would basically be impossible for any solution to meet the requirement. That may be possible in fields such as science etc., but magick is an art as well, very subjective material no?
These symbols we leap from making subjective choices can inspire specific process that themselves are justified.
Liber Legis is of course very personal, individual, how the verses strike me - what they inspire is personal. You dont have to understand, nor agree how one arrives at a particular summit, but if he end up at that summit another may understand & verify his position.
I can not dictate HOW I believe a verse or symbol should move you, or inspire you. Nor can I dictate the validity of your particular inspiration, regardless if "correct" or not. One may get a vision of Nuit from a symbol of Hadit, but if the vision itself is of universal worth and use, does it matter?
Perhaps these subjective choices are the subjective "keys" that open up meaning for an individual leading to a very objective solution.
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
Subjective choices:
A. Taking the "sheets" to be the Tarot.
Someone has to make a subjective choice to what these "sheets" are. How can anyone avoid this? Besides, my idea is the same as others far greater than myself in knowledge.
B. Taking "right to left and top to bottom" as outline of a graph. How is that unreasonable, if not perfectly logical?
C. Interpreting the SYMBOL of a circle with a cross inside as ROTA (Tarot 22), & 4 elements. Also it inspiring the idea of adding (even reducing) the "circle" of cards.
D. Why couldnt it be taken as legitimate to have "Abrahadabra" in this context suggest uniting the 5 & 6 divisions of these cards or "circle squared"?
C. Following logically the graph outline suggested, why is it unjustified to add these cards?
D. Why isnt it enough justification to reduce and mirror this graph outline simply because all the above led me to try? Or that the words "right to left and top to bottom" gave ME a further idea of reflecting each side? Or the word "behold" to investigate?
How are the above personal inspirations that I derived from the "keys" given (and for a reason) reason to reject the results I obtain, that further fit verses? I.e. "foursquare, mystic, wonderful, the number of the man (666), and the name of thy house 418".
A Tablet foursquare 666, and cross 418, inspired BY "keys" given in Liber Al, unjustified because it would ask others to accept HOW I came to those inpirations for my methods?
Doesnt make sense, and precludes many others ideas arrived at the same way as well. Magick IS subjective.
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
"How can we exclude a solution simply because others would be required to accept the subjective choices of its originator?
"Begs the question of what a solution is.
It's like saying, "How can we exlude a mathematical formula just because it doesn't make any sense unless you're a Christian?"
If I have to be Christian for a mathematical formula to make sense, it isn't a mathematical formula.
If I have to place faith in the person who solved a riddle instead of being able understand it, I have no business giving importance to riddles.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Bereshith said
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"How can we exclude a solution simply because others would be required to accept the subjective choices of its originator?
"Begs the question of what a solution is.
It's like saying, "How can we exlude a mathematical formula just because it doesn't make any sense unless you're a Christian?"
If I have to be Christian for a mathematical formula to make sense, it isn't a mathematical formula.
If I have to place faith in the person who solved a riddle instead of being able understand it, I have no business giving importance to riddles."
A solution is of course the answer to a problem. In this case, the answer to the riddles hidden in Liber Al, specifically the secret of the pasting of the sheets, and the English Qabalah. In addition making sense to many other mysterious verses, that point to a hidden answer.
Im not sure I get your analogy, the "mathmatical formula" aka my theory (method), doesnt require a change in belief systems. Your a Thelemite. Im a Thelemite. You understand the fundamental concepts of Qabalah, and Thelemic and magical theory and techniques, as I do, and probably better.
Therefore, this does not require one to abandon "Thelemic" or "magical" reason or points of view etc. But simply to accept the individual inspiration that LED to a process (formula) that further leads to a reasonable answer.
Do you feel, besides the subjective choices, that the system/theory itself is flawed or unworkable somehow? That IT alone, forgetting about HOW it was derived, has no merit or worth? If so, how or what are your reasons?
Otherwise, I am stumped how you justify rejecting ANY solution that is valid, simply based on how particular symbols influenced another.
Your not placing faith in a person. Of course Awaiss etc., works through us, directing us. IF a solution comes, its not from that personality or person, but as you said, thier Higher Genius or HGA, right? Wouldnt ANY solution come from a person? Look at Frater Achad! You accept AL as the universal key to the Book of the Law dont you?
93 93/93
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
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**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
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Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law
I believe that by pasting the sheets from right to left and top to bottom, in the proper way, generates a Thelemic Enochian style Tablet. The method described seems to be confirmed by the number results that follow, most importantly by the two great Thelemic numbers 666 and 418. What is more astonishing, in my opinion, is that all of these numbers (and not just 666 & 418) appear in a cohesively symbolic way.
The purpose of this post is not to be presumptuous in declaring a definite solution to any particular riddle(s) of Liber Al, but to simply display an interesting possibility. The decision of whether or not these ideas have objective truth or personal truth lies with the reader. I will point out that my personal criteria for any theory regarding the ciphers are:
**A. Be based upon a reasonable and solid Qabalistic foundation of symbolic meaning and/or techniques.
B. Have cohesion. It must fit in with the already-established understanding, and not require one to re-tool the whole system in order for it to "work".
C. It should be marked by a divine simplicity that doesn't seem forced.
D. Results should bring to light something new that itself seems to have a life of its own. Results should yield instant, well-defined already-known hallmarks. Examples of this would be Abrahadabra = 418, Nu = 56, AL = LA etc. These are significant symbolic words and gemetric results that have cohesion, have symbolic bearing in relationship and numbers that were already established as significant clearly within Liber Al itself, or through the works of the Master Therion. **
It would stand to reason any true solution, if found, would first require, at least upon the surface, such instant recognizability in order to be further considered. I personally feel this theory meets the above criteria.
The present theory postulates that through properly following verse III.73 one can assemble an Enochian-style Thelemic Tablet and discover, perhaps, the intended English Qabalah. Thus, this theory presents two reciprocal objects in one stroke. These two subjects are linked to the Tarot (which of course is already recognized as a foundation for the book). The Enochian system that this solution seems to be based upon is another related subject important to A.C. I believe this is the first shallow justification for it as a plausible answer, being that the two main subjects with such a strong connection to Liber Al are involved.
**CONSTRUCTION OF THE GRAPH
V.III:73. "Paste the sheets from right to left and from top to bottom: then behold!"**
**"This has been taken, usually, to mean that the 65 pages of the original ms. of Liber Legis are to be so arranged. However, I feel certain this is not what it means.
The 'sheets' are not of Liber Legis 'Sepher TORA' but of Nuit's book, Sepher TARO or ROTA (see I:57). The 'sheets' are the individual pages or Trumps of the Tarot. The correct arrangement is given in Liber Tav, all laid out. This is a tremendously important format for the correct study of the Hebrew letters and the corresponding trumps.
Gematria: BYHOLD {Heb} = 121 or 11 x 11, a key to Nuit and, perhaps, confirmation that 'Her Book' is the one intended."**
The above is a quote from a commentary by Jim Eshelman. He is not the only one to speculate that the "sheets" are actually the pages of the Book of Thoth, or the Tarot. David Allen Hulse, in his book entitled (ironically), "The Key of It All", suggests the same thing.
This theory agrees with this view of the identity of the sheets. With these sheets I believe we can follow the directions given properly. It is here that the solution differs from the old method, that of Liber Tav. While this is valid and useful in its own right, I argue that it doesn't preclude another possibility. After all, there are almost an infinite number of ways to arrange these symbols and obtain something useful. However, I would add that the arrangement given in Liber Tav doesn't truly seem to follow the directions given in verse III:73. For starters, the Hebrew letters alone are not the "sheets" - even Nuit herself calls these the "old letters" of her book, and not "sheets". Barring even that, the arrangement itself seems a bit of a stretch from the simple directions given. How, for example, does "right to left and top to bottom" describe placing all the Hebrew letters within the legs of a giant Tav?
If we take a square or rectangle, like the page of the manuscript, as a reference frame, if these directions are employed what do we get? It seems rather simple to say that the top of the square or page is the "top". Likewise, the "bottom" is the bottom, and of course there are the "right" and "left" sides. We then may arrange these sheets mentioned "right to left", as in a horizontal line, and then down the side, "top to bottom" - obviously this would imply the left side; it would appear like this:
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Of course this could also suggest the outline of a cross. However, a layout of a cross would bring about an overlap at the center (which is significant, but will go into that later). The above is the most clear and simple solution to the layout, and its only drawback is that upon the surface it doesn't appear to do much. This is because you must first know what these directions are for, and a little more information about these sheets are required to understand the significance.
There is more hidden in this verse that's easy to overlook; the additional words* "Paste"* and* "behold!"*. Both of these give us important information to the hidden solution. Why the use of the word "paste"? It would have been just as easy to say "place", or "attach", or even "position". This word has to play a vital role in the unlocking of the riddle, and it does.
Paste suggests combining two or more objects that are otherwise seperate. It also brings to mind the idea of art; and we hear just that very word in Liber Al, I:47 "But they have the half; unite by thine art so that all disappear." Could this suggested idea of "art" be a hint toward the artistic symbology of the Tarot? I believe that's one layer of its use, and like many of the words and verses of the Book of the Law, there are multiple layers of meaning.
The other is the idea of mathematical addition. To paste something we are basically adding things together, we're doing artistic math. Could this imply the use of addition within this positioning of the Tarot? The outline suggesting a graph seems to support this idea.
We must not forget the other word used, the one at the end of the verse: "behold!" Behold of course is the literal translation of the Hebrew letter Heh.
Paul Foster Case says of Heh:
"Sight is the sense function attributed by Qabalists to the letter Heh. Vision, inspection, reconnaissance, watchfullness, care, vigilance, examination, calculation, analysis, induction, inquiry, investigation, and the like, are all associated in language. All depends largely on the sense of sight. Thus we may expect to find the mode of consciousness associated with this letter one which is active in this kind of mental operation."
Case also points out:
"Constituting Intelligence is the name given it in the Hebrew wisdom, and it is said to 'constitute creation in the darkness of the world.' To constitute is to make anything what it is, to frame, to compose. Constitution is closely related to authorship. The author of anything is its producer, originator, inventor, founder, begetter, generator, architect and builder. "
It then stands to reason that "behold!", taken as being related to Heh, would add to the ideas behind "paste", to investigate, to calculate, to analyze the results. The two additional words then further add to the directions to say "add together the Tarot, and further investigate and analyze the results." The word "behold" could be seen as a hint to investigate and build based on what one finds. After analyzing the results of pasting these sheets, perhaps one is to actively play a role in helping to build it. This turns out not to be so difficult considering it results in a square "tablet" comparable to the Enochian Watchtowers.
PASTING THE SHEETS
Assuming paste suggests adding things together, which to me is pretty logical, we realize the directions could be describing a process of adding the cards of the Tarot together. Where, however, do we stop pasting right to left, and begin going top to bottom? It seems we still require a division for these directions.
It turns out that there is a natural division already in the cards themselves. The Trumps are divided into macrocosmic and microcosmic sets, almost 13 by 13. The Trumps 0 - 12, are macrocosmic, and 13 - 21 are microcosmic. This seems a perfect way to divide these "sheets", with the macrocosmic cards filling in the sheets going right to left (across the top of this theoretical graph), and the 9 microcosmic cards going from top to bottom along the side.
We can now get and idea of what this verse is describing; a mathematical process of blending the 5 and the 6. There are, however a couple problems still:
*A. Exactly what are we adding together to create this literal graph?
B. This leaves us lop-sided, being that there are 13 cards going right to left, and only 9 cards going down - top to bottom. Intuitively it seems we should be balanced; even on both sides of the graph.*
LINES DRAWN & CIRCLES SQUARED & ABRAHADABRA!
V. III:47. This book shall be translated into all tongues: but always with the original in the writing of the Beast; for in the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another: in these are mysteries that no Beast shall divine. Let him not seek to try: but one cometh after him, whence I say not, who shall discover the Key of it all. Then this line drawn is a key: then this circle squared [graphic] in its failure is a key also. And Abrahadabra. It shall be his child & that strangely. Let him not seek after this; for thereby alone can he fall from it. "
These last questions lead us to one of the most obvious puzzles of the Book. Here we have three obvious clues, or* "keys"*. First, I think it's interesting to pay attention to the use of the word "key", as it obviously reflects one of the terms used to describe a Tarot card. Cleverly it also suggests something as a clue, which they of course are. Could they relate to the graph idea suggested in III:73?
Most would say there were three clues given here, these being the "line drawn", "the circle", and "Abrahadabra". I disagree; there is another - an odd graph drawn on the actual page of the manuscript by A.C. Even though this graph drawn on the page was done after the dictation of the book, could it be a further manifestation of Crowley's subconscious hinting at this solution? Perhaps it was Awaiss that controlled the circumstances to bring about this shadow clue? This has no real bearing on the solution, other than it's interesting and co-incedental. It does, however, give us an idea that perhaps these clues relate to the graph. This seems to be confirmed further by what we find and how we come to realize the importance of "letters" to this graph, with which these clues also seem to deal.
THE LINE DRAWN
The line drawn is a literal mark diagonally across the page. A.C. acknowledges that the letters it touched total to 418. But what does this solve? We already know about this number, but how does that connect with the following circle squared that's also drawn? There should be some sort of meaningful connection and help between these clues.
I think the importance of these lie within their hint at the use of the English Alphabet, and a connection to the process hidden in verse III:73. The connection becomes more obvious when we unlock the symbols drawn on the page. Then Abrahadabra, as our last clue, makes perfect sense.
Understanding the "line drawn" is in how it is drawn. If we described it verbally, we get an interesting result. Using the same reference points we did for verse III:73. We could then describe this line drawn as, "left to right and top to bottom", or of course the exact opposite of that verse; "left to right and bottom to top." which of course taken in conjunction with the words of verse III:73 would outline a perfect square. The truly important part of this description, however, is the subtle difference* "left to right"*, which suggests how we read and write English! (Also note this could describe a whole other set of sheets, arranged perfectly opposite the original, a mirror).
THE CIRCLE SQUARED
Next, in a seemingly logical sequence; is the "circle squared in its failure". What is this "circle squared in it's failure"? We are given an actual circle drawn with an equal armed cross in its center. To me, this is obvious. It is again a Multi-layered clue; all of which hint at the same exact subjects, the mystery and problem of the missing 4 sheets that would make the graph a perfect 13x13 graph - 26 in all.
Paul Foster Case in his work* "The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages"* says concerning the symbolism of the Wheel of Fortune:
**"On the wheel, in the circle representing the material world, are the letters TARO counterchanged with the Hebrew letters spelling IHVH. In Hebrew values, the letters of TARO make the number 671, important in Qabalah as the number of certain titles of Malkuth, the Kingdom. As the value of IHVH is 26, the total manifestation of the eight letters on the wheel is 697, and the digits of 697 add to 22, a number associated with the circle or wheel from time immemorial, and the numbers of letters in the Hebrew alphabet, symbolized by the major trumps of Tarot." **
22 is this* "circle", the 22 Hebrew letters attributed to the Trumps, which was "squared in its failure", squared meaning arranged in its divisions of macrocosm and microcosm and blended (the Great Work; uniting the 5 & 6). 26 is 22 + 4, so the circle with the cross within it could be easily said to be 26. However, another point is that this is a symbol of Malkuth, and its here that the solution really comes, since it is within Malkuth that the "9 locks of the inferior beard" *of microprosopus become 13. This refers to the 9 microcosmic paths, (Trumps) that now become 13 when we add these 4 base elements found in Malkuth.
This glyph is a symbol of the solution to the graph, the solution which yields 13 by 13 (13 remember is the value of Achad "one"). It is also a symbol of 26, the Great Work and so the Rosy Cross, and lastly - its the exact number of letters in the English Alphabet.
The last subtle layer of this "circle squared" clue, is that it is a perfect symbol of the graph and its function. It is ROTA, the wheel, and the cross is the four base elements which square it. The cross itself is an addition sign, and further describes the process of fleshing out the Tablet, by uniting that which is above with that which is below. It is a perfectly glorious symbol to represent such a Tablet!
This "circle squared" also reveals what exactly we are adding together - the pages of the Tarot, but more precisely, the new "order" or numbering system given the English alphabet. As we already discussed, the "sheets" are the pages of the Book of Thoth, which make up the outline of the graph. What we are to add, then, are the figurative 'page numbers' of the English alphabet. The English is taken as 26 "sheets" and given the numbering scheme employed by the Tarot Trumps; importantly, this order begins with a 0. The graph then generates a Tablet of 169 squares filled with the product of adding these sheets' page numbers. This new ordering system now applied to the English is vital to determining the true value of the letters, and so the English Qabalah. However, we will go into that later.
AND ABRAHADABRA!
The beauty of how these all flow together in a logical sequence of meaning is part of an argument for this solution's objective validity, in my opinion. It goes without saying that the last clue is what every magician says after he pulls a rabbit out of his hat - Abrahadabra! The work is done! Abrahadabra is the 11 letter word, representing the unification of the 5 & 6. This last clue represents the function of the graph. We can now see a continuing thread connecting all of these clues: the number 26, the English Alphabet as the Tarot.
**1. The line drawn tells us to use the English alphabet as tool to square up the circle (Tarot). (26 letters)
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The circle squared then answers the question of where these extra four letters go - the 4 suits. Plus describes mathematical and function/method of this Tablet & English/Tarot. (26 circle + cross)
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Abrahadabra describes the final blending (addition - pasting of these cards representing the 5 & 6. (26 Rosy Cross) **
In addition to the above, we seem to get further hints we are on the proper track that these clues suggest the English with the immediate following verse:
** III:48. "Now this mystery of the letters is done, and I want to go on to the holier place."**
Here is a commentary on this verse as well by Jim Eshelman:
**"Once more, the transition is almost non sequitur. If Aiwass were required to specify all ambiguous antecedents, he would be polishing this little composition halfway into the next Ãon. But it is the very ambiguities (at first sight) which lead the mind in a particular direction and along particular channels. This seems to me as I have observed previously to be part of the method of the Book.
So, we have to ask: What 'mystery of the letters'?
The apparent answer is the reference to 'the chance shape of the letters and their position to one another' from the verse preceding. Aiwass is adamant that He is 'done' with that mystery. Presumably he means that he has given us all the clues we need.
The chief clues were the three that I summarized (in the last verse) as referring to the Rosy Cross. I am sure that the ultimate meaning is that the Key to understand the mysteries of this Book is to attain to the K&C of the HGA, and thereafter to interpret all in the bright light of the mystic topaz. But there are also lesser mysteries. I believe these are coded in certain letter codes.
In 2:55 we were admonished to 'obtain the order & value of the English Alphabet,' etc. Note that the Keys in verse 47 only enumerate to 418 if the Anglo-Hebraic transliteration were used. That, in fact, is the one method that makes all of these "keys" functional.
There is, as well, the mystery of 'the numbers & the words' in 2:76. Are these part of the 'mystery of the letters' indicated by the present verse?
The implication of verse 48 is that the 'mystery of the letters,' however mysterious or sublime, is relatively exoteric to that which follows. Aiwass, in the guise of Horus, now withdraws further inward, as from the Holy Place of the Tabernacle to the "holier place", the Sanctum Sanctorum. As the climax of the Book kicks into high gear, He will no longer hang around at the level of Ruach mysteries, but will now 'go on.' (c. 1995 EV)"**
Jim notices this here and confirms the connection of the clues to the Rosy Cross. It is there described in the hidden number 26. The mystery of the "letters" is the mystery of how to square the circle of 22 keys, which we learn here is done by applying the English letters. By using the English, and attributing them to the Tarot, we arrive at 26; which is 13 x 13.
Note now the next verse that follows;
III:49. "I am in a secret fourfold word, the blasphemy against all gods of men."
The perfect understanding of this verse will soon become very obvious. I will say now that the graph generates a tablet of squares 13 x 13, 169 squares in all. Looking at the breakdown of this arrangement we could divide the Tablet up into 5 parts.
Uploaded at Picoodle.com
**1. 4 quadrants composed of 36 squares. (36 Sun)
- A central cross of 25 squares. (25 Mars)**
This fourfold aspect is that of which I believe this verse speaks. How it becomes *"the blasphemy against all gods of men" *becomes hard to ignore as well; which we will get into soon enough.
We can now generate a Tablet from the graph using what could be called for now "Trump numbers for the English". As mentioned, the extra four numbers are assigned to the extra four English letters (WXYZ), the four base elements and the four elemental suits.
@Bereshith said
"Hmm... spend some time with other people's "solutions" and come up with your own
criteria."I have, and my criteria are listed as you stated and liked. Thats why I qualify it as a "valid" solution, believing it a reasonable and workable
system/formula, even IF personal.93 93/93
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