seal

   In MAGIC, a symbol unique to a DEMON, ANGEL, or other occult force, used in rituals such as the summoning of specific spirits. Seals are also called sigils, a term derived from the Latin word for seal, sigillum. Seals can be likened to a form of shorthand that enable a magician to set in motion forces or summon spirits into awareness and control them. Seals alone do not call forth spirits, however, but serve as a physical focus through which the practitioner achieves a desired state of mind. Their primary purpose is to stimulate the imagination of the magician in accordance with the purpose of a ritual. A seal is given energy via visualization, chanting, and intensity of will and then is “sent.” The correct use of seals is one of the factors that determine the success of the ritual. According to the Lemegeton, one of the principal GRIMOIRES, a seal must be worn on the breast; otherwise, the spirit will not obey.

   Seals of demons are symbols. Other seals are created from the numbers in magic squares. They also can be symbols, astrological signs, runes, and even designs created by a magician. They can contain the entire essence of a spell or the magical properties of celestial forces, spirits, or deities.