Abstract
<jats:p>Magical Written Talismans in Islamic Culture Textual and Symbolic Reading This study aims to examine the historical background, conceptual framework, and symbolic structure of written talismans in the Islamic magical tradition. The first section addresses the concepts of magic, amulets, and talismans, focusing on the materials used in their preparation, their shaping, functions, and working systems. Furthermore, the formation process of the talisman tradition is presented within its historical context by evaluating fundamental sources and literature on the subject. The second section analyzes written talismans through examples. In this context, special attention is given to the use of alphabets in talismans, analyzing the function of the Hebrew and Western esoteric alphabets, as well as the Arabic alphabet and the tradition of letter science, in talismanic texts. Abjad calculations, letter combinations, and the simultaneous use of different alphabets are evaluated. In addition, the symbolic positions of vefks (talismans), geometric shapes, seal/hatem applications, and human and animal figures within talismans are examined with examples. The study also examines how sacred texts, divine names, Quranic verses, prayers, and the Beautiful Names of God (Asma al-Husna) are incorporated into talisman compositions, and how these elements not only give the text a religious appearance but also function in the production of legitimacy and authority. In this context, the points of intersection between religious discourse and magical practices are addressed, and the relationship between belief, symbolism, and persuasion processes in talisman texts is explored. The study selects talisman examples containing symbolic elements and subjects them to detailed analysis. The symbols and other magical elements in these examples are examined comparatively and evaluated within their historical contexts. Based on these analyses, inferences are made about the meanings societies attribute to talismans, the transformations talismans have undergone over time, and the intellectual and cultural foundations upon which the claims of influence attributed to these objects are based. Keywords: History of Religions; Talisman; Amulet; Symbol; Magic</jats:p>