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The Bornless Ritual, also known as the Preliminary Invocation of the Goetia or simply Preliminary Invocation, originates from the Graeco-Egyptian Papyri Graecae Magicae (PGM), a collection of ancient spells, invocations, and hymns compiled between the 2nd century BCE and the 5th century CE.[1] Initially used for exorcism and healing, the ritual invokes the "Headless One". In modern times this entity has been re-interpreted as the "Bornless One" without beginning or end, who symbolizes the unity of the divine and the practitioner. Some interpretations suggest that the ritual may have connections with the Egyptian god Set. It is also called the "Headless Rite" or the "Invocation of the Bornless One".[2]
Adapted by the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and Aleister Crowley's A∴A∴, the ritual is employed to contact the Holy Guardian Angel, a key concept in Thelema and other esoteric traditions. It serves purposes of spiritual protection, purification, and preparation for deeper magical workings, aiming to facilitate a connection with higher spiritual forces.[3]
Today, the Bornless Ritual remains significant in Western esotericism, especially in the pursuit of the Knowledge and Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel. Its continued use underscores its foundational role and impact on the spiritual journey in modern occult practices.[4]