magical squares
A well-known variety of the number amulets is the so-called magical square: a numerical arrangement that has magical meaning. The most widely used square is the ‘buduh’-square: an arrangement of the numbers 1 through 9 with 5 in the middle, that reads 15 in all directions. This square is first encountered in a 9th or 10th century copy of the writings of Jabir ibn Hayyan, and is said to ease childbirth. Its origins probably are much older and to be found in China. The square derives its name from the four letters on the corners of the square when noted down in the Abjad letter-numerals: b-d-w-h. Its powers were believed to be so strong that the name ‘buduh’ itself was enough to invoke that power.
The buduh-square in numerals
The buduh-square in Abjad letter-numerals
The buduh-square in transliteration. The letters on the corners form the word b-d-w-h
Since the use of the buduh-square, many other magical squares have been developed and worked into silver amulets. Their use is not limited to the Islamic world. A Christian version of a magical square can be found on the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, where the numbers read 33 in all directions. In this square however some numbers are repeatedly used, while it is preferred to use the same number only once in a magical square. The square is also not limited to 3 x3 rows, but can be expanded as well, such as this 16th century square.
A 16th century magical square in a manuscript
Magical squares are often used in jewelry. The mould shown below, currently in the British Museum, shows an amulet with a magical square on one side and written text, probably a sura from the Qur’an like the Throne Verse of Fatiha, on the other side. The shape of this amulet is also meaningful in itself: it represents a loh or writing board. Shape and content are combined here to create a powerful amulet.
Mould for an amulet with magical square and text
The magical square has been, and still is, in use throughout the Middle East in Islamic, Christian and Jewish tradition. More on magical squares can be found here.
Amulets showing a magical square in Hebrew. The central character is generally used to indicate the name of God
Another magical square amulet from Iran