Where Do Talismans and Incantations Come From, and Why Are They Often Surprisingly Effective?

In films and television, talismans often appear: a piece of paper with mysterious symbols or phrases that can summon spirits, call the wind, or bring the rain. In old folk records, we also hear of strange spells, whether righteous or sinister, all shrouded in mystery. So what exactly are talismans and incantations? Do they truly have marvelous effects, or are they merely tricks — remnants of superstition?

Talismans and incantations are divided into two parts: the fu (符, talisman) and the zhou (咒, incantation). Together they form an important part of the cultivation of ancient Chinese practitioners of qi (炁, vital energy). Many cultures around the world also developed their own forms of talismanic practice.

The zhou (incantation) is a secret formula. Only through specific cultivation can it become an incantation, and only when mastered does it have power. Its study requires transmission from a teacher, as well as the right words, directions, timing, steps, hand seals, repetitions, and precepts, all practiced over long periods of time. An incantation works only when cultivated to success. Without that, even if chanted perfectly, with the right steps and hand seals, it remains powerless words — and may even produce the opposite effect.

The fu (talisman) refers to characters, symbols, or diagrams written or drawn on paper or other materials that can bear writing. They are usually inscribed with cinnabar or ink, often on yellow, red, or white talisman paper, cloth, silk, or peachwood; sometimes on brick, stone, or iron plates. To draw a talisman requires stillness of mind and following a precise ritual procedure.

Talismans and incantations work as one. A talisman alone usually has no direct effect. The talisman is like a vessel that holds the power of the incantation. Writing the talisman properly only makes a vessel; only when filled with incantation power does it truly take effect. People say, “With a spark of spirit, it becomes a talisman.” That spark is the power of the incantation — the purest and most upright qi drawn by the practitioner through communion with Heaven and Earth. Without it, even the finest talisman is no more than red and black ink on paper.

Tradition holds that talismans and incantations are heavenly texts. The writing on talismans is cloud seal script (云篆), the script used by immortals. Incantations were passed down from the immortals to communicate with the laws of Heaven and Earth and to borrow divine power. How much power can be borrowed depends directly on the cultivator’s attainment. The human body contains 36,000 spirits, and the cosmos also holds 36,000 spirits. To recite an incantation is to connect with the corresponding spirit within, and then resonate with the spirits of Heaven and Earth, thereby drawing on their power to produce marvelous effects.

Incantations may be voiced in the heart, murmured quietly, or spoken aloud. Typically, methods for subduing and punishing are spoken loudly, while those for replenishment are spoken softly.