Made famous by Aleister Crowley’s Thelema, the Unicursal Hexagram is a symbol of unity, the continuous flow of energy and life, and the interconnectedness of all things. It is also associated with the Hermetic principle of “as above, so below,”
While not as widely recognized as the regular hexagram, it has carved out its own niche in spiritual and mystical traditions, appreciated for both its geometric elegance and its layered symbolic meanings.
Join us as we delve into the origins, geometry, and profound meanings of this enigmatic symbol, uncovering the layers that have captivated spiritual seekers and mystics across ages.
What is Thelema: An Introduction to the Esoteric Philosophy
The Hexagram Meaning in Spirituality & Sacred Geometry
Origins of the Unicursal Hexagram
The Hermetic Trinity
The unicursal hexagram finds its historical beginnings in the works of Giordano Bruno, an Italian cosmological theorist.
Giordano Bruno, in his work Essays Upon the Mathematics of Mordente: One Hundred and Sixty Theses/Articles Against the Mathematicians and Philosophers of this Age, introduced the unicursal hexagram within the context of exploring the Hermetic trinity in his mathematical studies.
The Hermetic trinity, as conceptualized by Bruno, encompasses the interconnected concepts of the mind, the intellect, and affection or love. These were intricately depicted in his drawings named Figura Mentis (figure of mind), Figura Intellectus (figure of intellect), and Figura Amoris (figure of love), respectively.
Notably, Bruno chose the unicursal hexagram to represent Figura Amoris, the figure of love. This association linked the symbol to profound metaphysical and philosophical ideas, highlighting its connection to affection and the interconnectedness of spiritual concepts.
The Unicursal Hexagram in Thelema
The symbol was later brought to greater prominence by Aleister Crowley and its adoption and adaptation for Thelema marked a significant moment in its evolution
Thelema found the unicursal hexagram resonated deeply with its core principles of individualism and spiritual enlightenment,
At the heart of the Thelemic hexagram lies a five-petaled flower, each petal meticulously aligning with one of the star’s points. This central flower symbolizes the pentagram and is emblematic of the classical elements – earth, air, fire, water – crowned by the human spirit at the top.
This adaptation represents the pivotal role of human will in the quest for spiritual ascension and mastery over the material plane.
The unicursal hexagram is also featured in the Thoth Tarot deck.
While not part of the traditional tarot deck structure, its inclusion as an extra card underscores its importance in Crowley’s system of thought.
Thelema Symbols: Decoding their Mystical Meanings
Design and Geometry of the Unicursal Hexagram
Unique Geometry and Composition
At its core, the unicursal hexagram consists of two overlapping equilateral triangles.
However, it diverges from the traditional hexagram, like the Star of David, by the way its lines interweave, looping over and under each other in a specific sequence.
This unique weaving pattern, unlike the regular, segmented hexagram, allows for a more fluid and uninterrupted representation.
This feature is often interpreted as symbolic of the unity between polar opposites, illustrating how seemingly separate elements are intricately connected.
Drawing the Unicursal Hexagram
Creating a unicursal hexagram involves tracing a continuous line that forms a six-pointed star, executed without lifting the pen from the paper.
This method yields a clean, unified design, captivating in its simplicity and depth.
The act of drawing it, requiring uninterrupted flow and concentration, mirrors the deeper spiritual implications of the symbol.
Symbolic Meanings of the Unicursal Hexagram
Association with Alchemical Transformation
In Western occult traditions, the unicursal hexagram is closely linked with alchemical processes.
It is often viewed as representing the Philosopher’s Stone, a legendary alchemical substance symbolizing enlightenment and transformation.
This connection reflects the hexagram’s role as an emblem of spiritual alchemy—the transformation of the soul or the pursuit of higher consciousness.
“As Above, So Below“
The unicursal hexagram also embodies the Hermetic principle of “as above, so below,” a maxim reflecting the microcosm-macrocosm relationship.
The upward-pointing triangle represents the celestial or spiritual realms, while the downward-pointing triangle symbolizes the earthly or material realms.
Together they illustrate the interconnectedness of these dimensions.
Unity of Dualities and Cosmic Totality
It’s design also symbolizes the unity of opposites, a crucial theme in many spiritual and philosophical systems.
The intertwining of masculine and feminine energies, material and spiritual worlds, and conscious and subconscious realms is visually depicted in the harmonious union of the triangles.
Additionally, each point of the hexagram can represent the classical elements, along with Spirit and Matter suggesting a comprehensive model of the cosmos.
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Practical Applications of the Unicursal Hexagram
The unicursal hexagram is utilized in a variety of practical ways, particularly in ritualistic contexts.
In Ceremonial Magic
In the realm of ceremonial magic, this symbols is often employed for invoking and evoking energies and entities.
For instance, in Thelemic rituals the hexagram is used in conjunction with other symbols like the pentagram, wand, and chalice to create a ritual space for invoking specific deities or energies.
Banishing Rituals
A common example is the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Hexagram, akin to the more widely known Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram.
In this ritual, practitioners draw the hexagram in the air while reciting specific prayers or incantations, such as the divine names associated with the planetary energies, to cleanse the area of negative influences.
Final Thoughts
The Unicursal Hexagram stands as a compelling and multifaceted symbol, weaving together strands of historical significance, geometric elegance, and profound esoteric meanings.
It speaks to the unity of opposites and the interconnectedness of all things.
As per the teachings of Hermetica and echoed by the Unicursal Hexagram, “As above, So below.“
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the unicursal hexagram mean in Tarot?
In the Thoth Tarot the unicursal hexagram is included as an extra card without any specific tarot card interpretation.
However, its symbolic significance can be inferred based on its importance in Crowley’s Thelemic philosophy.
It reflects broader themes of cosmic balance, spiritual interconnectedness, and the journey of enlightenment, resonating with the overall spiritual and philosophical underpinnings of the Thoth Tarot deck.
What does the hexagram symbolize?
The hexagram is a symbol of union and harmony, often representing the confluence of opposing forces such as the divine and earthly, or masculine and feminine energies.
The six points symbolize the balance of the four classical elements (earth, air, fire, water), plus spirit and matter, or the interconnection of the spiritual and material worlds.
What is the Unicursal hexagram spiritual meaning?
The unicursal hexagram represents unity, the continuous flow of energy and life, and the interconnectedness of all things.
It is also associated with the Hermetic principle of “as above, so below,” reflecting the mirroring of the macrocosm in the microcosm.
