In the world of magic, there are four main principles often called the Powers of the Sphinx: To Know, To Will, To Dare, and To Keep Silent. These ideas, described by the occultist Eliphas Lévi, are considered the foundation of magical practice and personal growth. Each one is both a guiding idea and a practical skill, helping anyone interested in magic to learn, act, be brave, and gain wisdom.
Let’s start with the first principle: To Know. Knowledge is the base of all magical work. This is more than just memorizing facts or rituals. It means truly understanding yourself, the natural world, and the subtle energies that connect everything. To Know involves studying, observing, and thinking deeply. For example, someone practicing witchcraft might learn about the properties of different herbs, the phases of the moon, or the meanings behind tarot cards. This kind of knowledge helps make sure that magical actions are thoughtful and informed, not just based on superstition or guessing. As Lévi said, “When one does not know, one should will to learn.” Learning is a lifelong process, and it’s helpful to stay curious and open to new ideas and experiences.
The second principle is To Will. Willpower is the ability to focus your energy on a specific goal. In magic, this means using your intention and desire with clear purpose and determination. To Will is about bringing your thoughts and feelings together to support what you want to achieve. For instance, if you are doing a spell for healing, it’s not just about saying the right words or making certain gestures. It’s also about focusing your will on the goal of healing. This focused will turns thoughts into actions, and actions into real change. Lévi explained, “To learn how to will is to learn how to exercise dominion.” Without will, knowledge stays unused. With will, knowledge becomes a tool for transformation.
The third principle is To Dare. Daring means having the courage to go beyond what is familiar, to try new things, and to face challenges. In witchcraft, this could mean experimenting with new types of magic, exploring altered states of mind, or standing up for your beliefs even if others disagree. To Dare is about taking risks and trusting your preparation and intuition. For example, you might try performing a ritual outside under the full moon, even if it feels a bit uncomfortable, or you might share your magical interests with someone for the first time. Daring helps you grow, because it encourages you to move beyond your comfort zone and discover new possibilities.
The fourth and final principle is To Keep Silent. Silence is often seen as the most sacred and sometimes the hardest of the four. It means practicing discretion, taking time for reflection, and finding inner stillness. To Keep Silent is about protecting your magical work from unnecessary talk, respecting the mysteries, and gaining wisdom through quiet contemplation. In practice, this could mean keeping a private journal of your experiences, not boasting about your magical successes, or simply sitting in meditation to listen to your inner voice. Silence helps protect the energy of your work and allows you to absorb and understand your experiences more deeply. As Lévi wrote, “In Silence is Wisdom, and there are many Mysteries that cannot be spoken of but must only be felt with the soul.”
These four principles—To Know, To Will, To Dare, and To Keep Silent—are all connected, and each one supports the others. They are linked to the four fixed signs of the Zodiac and the four elements in magic, creating a strong foundation for any magical practice. By developing these qualities, you not only grow in your magical abilities but also begin a journey of self-discovery and spiritual development. Each principle is important, and together, they form a complete path for anyone interested in witchcraft or magic.
