The Theban alphabet is used almost exclusively by Wiccans as a substitution cipher to protect magical writings from prying eyes. It originated as a magical alphabet; the exact origin is unknown.

The Theban alphabet first appeared in print in Henry Cornelius Agrippa's Third book of Occult Philosophy in 1531, where it was ascribed to the legendary magus Honorius of Thebes. It is occasionally referred to as the "runes of Honorius," although Theban is not a runic alphabet.

While it resembles some ancient alphabets, it is unknown before Agrippa's publication. It is little used as a magickal alphabet, except as an occasional substitute for Anglo-Saxon runes, or for making charms and amulets.

Theban was introduced to Wicca by its founder, Gerald Gardner.

To use Theban as a cipher, simply substitute Theban letters for English letters as shown below:

To download a Theban Font: Magickal Scripts

Related Resources:

• Image Gallery: Witch Trials and Persecutions
• Druidry/Neopaganism
• Historical Witchcraft
• Ritual Magick