The following extract from the Egyptian Book of the Dead (Spells of Going Forth by Day) offer some interesting insight into the recognition of the importance of language, and verbalisation of words as a magical act. I have provided two translations, which show some significant differences in translation from the original, however the basic idea of words connected with magic is clear (bold, underlined text).
Changing Into The God Who Giveth Light In The Darkness
“Saith Osiris, the scribe Ani, triumphant: I am the girdle of the robe of the god Nu, which shineth and sheddeth light, which abideth in his presence and sendeth forth light into the darkness, which knitteth together the two fighters who live in my body through the mighty spell of the words of my mouth, which raiseth up him that hath fallen–for he who was with him in the valley of Abtu hath fallen–and I rest. ” – Translation by E. A. Wallis Budge, 1895
The second translation has some key differences, both in terms of using modern English, as well as an updated translation that changes some of the concepts dramatically (“two fighters” and “two companion goddesses”), however the concept of the spell/magic relating to the mouth (and therefore utterance / verbalisation) is still there, with the suggestion that this magical act is uniting these two parts within the body.
Making Transformation Into A God And Giving Light And Darkness
“I am he who donned the white and bright fringed cloak of Nun which is on his breast, which gives light in darkness, which unites the two companion goddesses who are in my body by means of the great magic which is on my mouth. My fallen enemy who was with me in the valley of Abydos will not be raised up, and I am content.” – Translation by Dr. Raymond Faulkner.
Compare the above sentences with Agrippa’s description in Of Speech, and the vertue of Words, where he states: “an uttered word hath a certain act in the voice, and properties of locution, and is brought forth with the breath of a man, with opening of his mouth, and with the speech of his tongue, in which nature hath coupled the corporeall voice, and speech to the mind…”
Question: Does a magical language have to be vocalised, or could it be purely internal, such as a language of meditation through symbols alone?
Good question… I was wondering the same thing myself… There is definitely power in spoken words, as evidenced from every day conversations with people… however, I wonder if magical language has more to do with preparing the mind of the magician than with being a requirement that it be vocalized in order for a spell to be effective. What are your thoughts? What about if you use translated magical language in your native tongue? Does it make a difference?
I believe that magic works only through utilising the psyche (mind / will) of the magician, and speaking out loud is not necessary for magic. Meditational / creative visualisation work without any spoken component, and I believe that spoken magical workings are futile without the appropriate understanding of the inner conditions necessary for success. Language, native or otherwise, is not primarily part of the magical process. Of course, a ‘language’ of imagery (imagination + will) is what a magical language must evoke to assist in a successful working.