
A sigil is a symbol considered to have magical power. The term derives from Latin sigillum, meaning "small figure, sign, mark, or seal." In modern usage, the term has primarily come to refer to occult symbols or seals used in magical works, such as those employed in the practice of ceremonial magic. Sigils are often created for specific magical purposes, such as invoking spirits, achieving personal goals, or influencing external events. They are typically constructed by combining or altering letters, symbols, or other elements into a unique design. In Hebrew, a sigil might be referred to as סמל (siman) or חתם (hotam), depending on the context. In French, the term is sceau, and in German, it is Sigill or Siegel. The use of sigils is prevalent in various magical traditions, including those of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, Aleister Crowley's Thelema, and chaos magic.