TODAY’S ARCHETYPE: The Magician
“Our psyche can function as though space did not exist. The psyche can thus be independent of space, of time, and of causality. This explains the possibility of magic.” — C. G. Jung, Emma Jung and Toni Wolff, A Collection of Remembrances, Pages 51-70.
The Magician, in possession of unusual, often “supernatural” knowledge, understanding, and skill, is able to execute powerful changes in his reality. This archetype is found in all parts of the world from ancient literature to the modern times.
The Magician is essentially the Sage, but in action. Where others see finality and resolute, the Magician perceives chaos and opportunity. To the lay person, the results of this will appear awe-inspiring and in the realm of impossibility. While the Magician perceives chaos, he also intuits patterns, and is thus sometimes known as the Weaver. Not only does he intuit patterns, but he is then able to replicate them and thus, create something independent and whole.
“Observing the shades, interpreting signs, reporting the patterns row by line. Liturgical tales I live and tell, infused and entwined like threads in the tapestry. I am, therefore I do. Explore, I am the Weaver. I do, therefore become, a seer and believer.” — Puscifer, the Weaver, 2011
Finally, we arrive at the real crux of what the Magician truly represents. The Magician insists upon a direct, experiential relationship with the cosmos and the powers of the universe. He takes a step beyond the point of simply knowing; he wants the role of director and ally.
The Magician is the archetypal Gnostic in a state of perpetual implementation.
The Magician’s Journey
Like the Hero, the Magician undergoes an important journey of his own. As a result of his personal power, the magician is thrust into confronting various moral dilemmas. During this process, he might undergo a separation from the world at large. At this point, he may be consumed by his Shadow and must make a choice between self-preservation and greatness. After making a choice, he returns to the world and dedicates himself (and his abilities) to the course he has decided upon.
Words and Traits to Describe the POSITIVE Magician
- Supernatural
- Healer
- Independent
- Intelligent
- Manifestation
- Visionary
- Intuitive
- Competent
- Powerful
- Uses knowledge to gain control over self
- “Catalyst” in the hero’s journey
- Personal responsibility
Words and Traits to Describe the NEGATIVE Magician
- Fears corruption
- Trials of morality
- Manipulative
- Exploitive
- Cowardice
- Destructive
- Uses Knowledge to control others
The True Purpose of the Magician
The Fool is said to be the perfect balance to the Magician; this union prevents the Magician from taking himself too seriously and regarding himself too highly. This keeps the Magician rooted in productive thinking and healthy behaviors.
The key word of the Magician is Transformation. This is the ultimate purpose and function of this archetype, both inwardly and exoterically in the world. The Magician channels "other" and materializes change.
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