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The Seven Faces of Darkness: Practical Typhonian Magic.

Don Webb

Smithville, TX: Runa-Raven Press, 1996. pp. 93.

ISBN# none listed

The Hermetic tradition of magical thought is based upon individualism. The challenge of learning rests squarely on the seeker; while teachers and mentors are available, it is the responsibility of the student to study, practice and incorporate his/her discoveries within the scope of personality. Naturally, individuals and their circumstances vary widely, and each is encouraged to explore their own boundaries and capabilities. In keeping with this independent study format, author Don Webb began researching the god Set-Typhon, a figure who appears repeatedly in the magical papyri of ancient Thebes and also on curse tablets from many Mediterranean sites. Webb was captivated by Set-Typhon, an apparent hybrid of the despised Egyptian god Set (who represented isolation and a drive for individual power and knowledge) and a Greek sea monster. How did the two come to be combined, and how could their unique qualities be applied in modern magic? In The Seven Faces of Darkness Webb examines Egyptian and Greek sources regarding Set-Typhon, then goes on to provide practical instructions for accessing and utilizing that material.

Don Webb conducted his study of Set-Typhon from a three-step, progressive perspectives. Initially, he relied on objective analysis, reviewing available documents and translations to determine actual written content and to form an accurate understanding of the writers' milieu. Self-reliance is imperative in this process, the magician being solely in charge of the depth and breadth of his/her research. Next comes subjective synthesis, the assimilation of information into the self. This knowledge is molded according to the predispositions and life experience of the seeker and becomes an integral part of him/her. Finally, enactment takes place. This is the concrete use of what has been learned, especially within the magical realm. This system involves self-motivation, time and hard work and can be invaluable in effecting personal transformation.

Having outlined a method of study, Don Webb sets about constructing a historical base. He briefly surveys the origins of Egyptian magical papyri and those of the Mediterranean curse tablets. While these sources are at first discussed as distinct groups, the author also recognizes the blending of Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Jewish concepts over time. In addition, he identifies some important social and historical contexts that gave impetus to this mingling of belief systems. Following this discussion, a chapter is dedicated to the Egyptian god Set, focusing on his rise, fall and remanifestation over the centuries. Set is a god of expanding borders and drastic changes, a force that opposes Osiris, the god who epitomizes stasis. Mythologically, Set defeats the serpent Apep, the creature that represents delusion. During Egypt's Hellenic period Set, ever a champion of individuation, became associated with Typhon, the powerful and destructive Greek sea monster. Set-Typhon's areas of influence are many: he is a role model for initiation, a destroyer of delusion, bringer of confusion and nightmares, a god of the future and an overpowering force of Fate - among other things.

At this point Don Webb offers a chapter on Setian theory, discussing the Egyptian/Greek historical matrix and specific beliefs regarding the cycles of creation. In ancient Egypt there were strong prohibitions relative to individualism and Set's position within the pantheon is revealed as being that of bad boy, a source of chaos and disruption. The author here defines the twofold division of Hermetic magic: operant (to get what one needs) and initiatory magic (to get what the individual truly needs). He then moves into a section analyzing magical practice that emphasizes basic ritual construction, necessary tools, important festivals and self-initiation. An accompanying chapter details spells and addresses substitutions, appropriate historical notes and, where necessary, diagrams. The final chapter of The Seven Faces of Darkness scrutinizes the prevailing remanifestation of Set and includes a translation of the critical Bremner-Rhind papyrus. Lastly, there is a list of helpful resources and a lengthy bibliography.

The Seven Faces of Darkness is a well-rounded and scholarly examination of the Setian arm within the Hermetic tradition. Don Webb's avowed magical practices are firmly rooted in documented research of Egyptian and Mediterranean records and mythology. While Webb supplies the basic building blocks of Setian magic, he strongly adjures the reader to cultivate his/her own subjective experience, to truly live and realize life through and as the god. Rituals are manageable, instructions are clear and the text never bogs down in the all too prevalent scholar-speak. By immediately establishing historical and theoretical frameworks, Webb assists the reader in following the magical pathway, neatly dovetailing practice and belief.

I personally do not believe in using magic at others' expense. As admirable as strong individualism is, no one exists in a vacuum. We influence and are influenced in turn, and if all magical practitioners focused on manipulation and coercion for personal gain and pleasure, the universe would be even more unbalanced than it currently is. Despite this basic and rather large philosophical difference of opinion, I enjoyed The Seven Faces of Darkness. I advocate Don Webb's methodical system of study and his exhaustive research techniques. Also, the Egyptian papyri and Greek tablet translations are fascinating, yielding solid data on that era's population; who their gods were, what was important, what was desired. Not surprisingly, motives don't seem to have changed much - money and sex are still prime prizes.

The Seven Faces of Darkness is a brief and concise look at the darker side of Hermetic operant magic. Recommended cautiously, for those experienced in magical theory and practice.

Janet Dugan