Eliphas Levi, born as Alphonse Louis Constant in 1810, was a 19th-century French occultist and influential figure in the development of Western esotericism. Levi is renowned for his works on magic, the Kabbalah, and ceremonial traditions. Widely considered his most important work, “Dogma and Ritual of High Magic”, explored the synthesis of various mystical traditions.
Eliphas Levi also wrote “Transcendental Magic”, a book that delves into the realms of occultism and mysticism. Published in the mid-19th century, Lévi explores the concept of magic as a transformative and spiritual practice, intertwining elements of Kabbalah, alchemy, and Hermeticism.
The book articulates Lévi’s vision of a universal and symbolic language underlying all mystical traditions. Central to his philosophy is the idea that the magician, through the understanding of correspondences and the manipulation of symbols, can access higher states of consciousness and divine truths.
In Transcendental Magic, Levi writes: ““To attain the sanctum regnum, in other words, the knowledge and power of the Magi, there are four indispensable conditions–an intelligence illuminated by study, an intrepidity which nothing can check, a will which cannot be broken, and a prudence which nothing can corrupt and nothing intoxicate.
TO KNOW, TO DARE, TO WILL, TO KEEP SILENCE–such are the four words of the Magus, inscribed upon the four symbolical forms of the sphinx.”
These four powers are essential to develop not only in the practice of magic, but for any person seeking to be effective in the world. They should be developed and utilized with balanced discernment.
To Know
The first power, “To Know,” represents the pursuit of knowledge and the awakening of the intellect. In Levi’s teachings, this transcends mere accumulation of facts; it is a call to delve into the deeper truths of existence.
It encourages seekers to explore the mysteries of the universe, understand the self, and grasp the hidden connections that bind all things. To Know is to embark on a lifelong journey of learning, questioning, and expanding the boundaries of consciousness.
In terms of practical magic, we must first know what we want to achieve before we set out to undertake it. “To know” what we want to do, be or achieve is always the crucial first step.
To Will
The second power, “To Will,” emphasizes the transformative force of one’s intentions and desires. Levi suggests that true power lies in aligning one’s will with the divine will, allowing individuals to shape their destinies.
This concept is not about mere wishful thinking but about the focused and disciplined application of personal energy.
To Will is to understand the power of intention, recognizing that thoughts and desires possess the ability to shape reality.
We must truly want something in our hearts before we have the capacity to set out to make it a reality.
To Dare
“To Dare,” the third power, embodies courage and the willingness to confront challenges on the path to self-realization. Levi encourages individuals to break free from the constraints of fear and embrace the unknown with confidence.
To Dare is to step beyond the comfort zones, face adversity, and overcome obstacles that obstruct the evolution of the soul. It is a call to action, pushing seekers to manifest their inner potential in the external world.
To Keep Silent
The fourth and final power, “To Keep Silent,” holds a profound significance in the realm of mysticism. Levi advises that not all truths need to be spoken, and there is wisdom in silence. To Keep Silent is to guard the sacred knowledge acquired on the spiritual journey, understanding that some mysteries are meant to be preserved and shared only with those prepared to receive them.
Out of all the powers of the Sphinx, this is the one which many occult practitioners pay the least attention to. I know this was true for myself when I first started, and unfortunately I had to learn the hard way about the the power of keeping silent.
When we share our hopes and our plans with others without discernment, we invite unexpected energies into the equation. The projections of other people are real energies that have impact on our perceptions and our actions.
When we speak without discernment, we can weaken our will and open ourselves to outside influence. This is true not only on a mundane level (in that we may allow ourselves to be dissuaded by other people’s negative opinions), but on a metaphysical or magical level as well.
That is why it is wise to always use discernment when confiding in others. I had to learn the very hard way that other people do not always want you to succeed.
Now, I am always sure to remember the power and wisdom in using discernment in what I speak and when considering what I share with those around me. It is not enough to know, to will and to dare, but it is also essential to keep silent.