Historical talisman traditions
Abraxas on Gnostic Gems
The Pavitts describe Abraxas with a cock’s head, human body, serpent legs, shield, and whip. They connect these parts with mind, word, intelligence, wisdom, and strength. The image belongs to their account of sacred names and engraved stones used for protection. Their proposed Coptic meaning of the name is part of the dated compilation, not an established derivation supplied by this entry.
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In the sources
Principal account
ReportedThe Pavitts describe Abraxas with a cock’s head, human body, serpent legs, shield, and whip. They connect these parts with mind, word, intelligence, wisdom, and strength.
Further detail
ReportedThe image belongs to their account of sacred names and engraved stones used for protection. Their proposed Coptic meaning of the name is part of the dated compilation, not an established derivation supplied by this entry.
Context & interpretation
The Pavitts’ 1922 compilation gathers symbols and attributed powers from several traditions, sometimes with conjectural origins. Its statements about protection, health, and fortune document talismanic belief rather than demonstrated effects or medical guidance.
Original passages
Source 1
The Book of Talismans, Amulets and Zodiacal Gems
body that of a man, with serpents forming the legs; in his right hand he holds a whip, and on his left arm isOpen this page in the book
Passage & edition details
Location recorded at citation review: Historical talisman traditions; active reader leaf 114
Exact passage checked against active scan text and original-leaf mapping; scan line breaks normalised.
- Edition
- IMJ-0074-E001
- Reader page
- IMJ-0074-E001-P0114
- Original scan leaf
- 115
- Recorded leaf number
- 115
- Current Reader position
- 107
- Reader verification
- Source-preserving update confirmed
Source 2
The Book of Talismans, Amulets and Zodiacal Gems
The Gnostics had great faith in the efficacy of sacred names and sigils when engraved on stones as Talismans ; also in magical symbols derived principally fromOpen this page in the book
Passage & edition details
Location recorded at citation review: Historical talisman traditions; active reader leaf 114
Exact passage checked against active scan text and original-leaf mapping; scan line breaks normalised.
- Edition
- IMJ-0074-E001
- Reader page
- IMJ-0074-E001-P0114
- Original scan leaf
- 115
- Recorded leaf number
- 115
- Current Reader position
- 107
- Reader verification
- Source-preserving update confirmed
Continue exploring
Talismans & Protective Charms ↗
Seven Greek Vowels
A vocal and inscribed pattern interpreted through the planetary heavens.
Same subject and traditionBulla
A Roman amulet container worn as a sign and safeguard.
Same subject and traditionEye of Horus
A protective eye emblem whose divine associations vary within the compilation.
Same subject and traditionHand of Fatima
An open-hand charm interpreted through protection and sacred family memory.