The use of correspondences in magick is based on a kind of sympathetic magic based on the Hermetic principle, "That which is above is like that which is below." In Hermetic tradition, all material things correspond to divine energies, and like influences like.

The The traditional western system of correspondences is based on a hierarchy of elemental, astrological and/or sephirotic kabbalistic* influences.

As heavenly bodies were thought to influence earthly sphere, things that correspond symbolicaly to those bodies or energies will share that influence.

For example, a diamond, which is symbolic of the energies of the planet Saturn, corresponds to Saturn, and takes its place in magick used to obtain Saturnian influences. Items used in correspondence systems include minerals & gemstones, perfumes & oils, herbs and plants, colors, magical tools & weapons, and so on.

Correspondences are used in theurgic ritual magic and in simple sympathetic magic (such as used in Wiccan candle spells.)

*While kabbalistic systems invariably include planetary correspondence, many traditional astrological systems do not include kabbalistic symbolism.

Related Resources:

• Correspondence Tables
• Alchemy
• The Tarot