Where Do Talismans and Incantations Come From, and Why Are They Often Surprisingly Effective?
Talismans and incantations are often depicted in films and television shows: a piece of paper inscribed with mysterious symbols, patterns, or a few enigmatic words, capable of summoning deities, controlling the wind, and calling for rain. They also appear in ancient folk legends, where various unimaginable spells—some righteous, some evil—are described, all exuding an aura of mystery. So, what exactly are talismans and incantations? Do they truly possess miraculous powers, or are they merely deceptive tricks and remnants of superstition?
Talismans and incantations are divided into two components: talismans (符) and incantations (咒). They form an essential part of the practice of ancient Chinese Qi cultivators. Many cultures around the world also have their own unique traditions of talismans and incantations.
Incantations are esoteric phrases that become effective through specific cultivation methods. Mastery is required for them to yield results. The practice of incantations requires guidance from a teacher, as well as the integration of specific incantation texts, directions, timing, steps, hand gestures, repetition counts, and adherence to precepts. Mastery is achieved through gradual accumulation over time. Only when an incantation is successfully cultivated does it become effective. Without successful cultivation, even if the words are recited perfectly and the accompanying hand gestures and steps are performed flawlessly, the incantation remains nothing more than a string of ineffective words—and may even produce adverse effects.
Talismans refer to characters, patterns, or symbols written or drawn on paper or other mediums capable of bearing writing. They are typically inscribed with cinnabar or ink on yellow talisman paper, red talisman paper, white talisman paper, talisman cloth, talisman silk, or peach wood boards. Occasionally, materials such as bricks, stones, or iron plates are used. When creating a talisman, one must achieve a state of mental calmness and follow specific rituals to complete the process.
Talismans and incantations are intrinsically linked. A talisman alone usually has no direct effect. It acts as a container, storing the power of the incantation. Following the correct ritual to create a talisman merely produces a qualified container. Only when the power of the incantation is infused into the talisman does it truly become effective. As the saying goes, "A single spark of spiritual light completes the talisman." This "spark of spiritual light" refers to the power of the incantation—the purest and most upright energy that practitioners draw by communing with heaven and earth. Without this spark, even the most beautifully drawn talisman remains nothing more than an intricate pattern of cinnabar and ink.
According to traditional records, talismans and incantations are considered celestial secrets. The characters used in talismans are known as "celestial scripts and cloud seal characters," which are believed to be the writing system of the gods. Incantations are said to be transmitted by deities, serving as a means to communicate with the laws of heaven and earth and borrow the power of the gods. Of course, the extent to which this power can be borrowed depends directly on the cultivator's level of mastery.
It is said that the human body houses 36,000 deities, and the universe similarly contains 36,000 deities. Reciting incantations allows practitioners to connect with the corresponding deities within themselves, resonate with the deities in the universe, and thereby harness the power of these celestial beings to achieve miraculous effects.
Incantations can be recited silently, murmured, or spoken aloud. Typically, methods involving subduing or eliminating negative forces require loud recitation, while those aimed at nurturing and healing are often recited softly.
