Western Esotericism and Rituals of Initiation

Western Esotericism and Rituals of Initiation PDF

Author: Henrik Bogdan

Publisher: State University of New York Press

Published: 2012-02-01

Total Pages: 250

ISBN-13: 0791480100

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For more than three hundred years the practice of Masonic rituals of initiation has been part of Western culture, spreading far beyond the boundaries of traditional Freemasonry. Henrik Bogdan explores the historical development of these rituals and their relationship with Western esotericism. Beginning with the Craft degrees of Freemasonry—the blueprints, as it were, of all later Masonic rituals of initiation—Bogdan examines the development of the Masonic High Degrees, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn—the most influential of all nineteenth-century occultist initiatory societies—and Gerald Gardner's Witchcraft movement of the 1950s, one of the first large-scale Western esoteric New Religions Movements.

Aleister Crowley and Western Esotericism

Aleister Crowley and Western Esotericism PDF

Author: Henrik Bogdan

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Published: 2012-09-20

Total Pages: 421

ISBN-13: 0199863091

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Henrik Bogdan and Martin P. Starr offer the first comprehensive examination of one of the twentieth century's most distinctive occult iconoclasts, Aleister Crowley (1875-1947), one of the most influential thinkers in contemporary western esotericism.

The Mystical Path of the Golden Dawn

The Mystical Path of the Golden Dawn PDF

Author: Megan V. Ramirez

Publisher: tredition

Published: 2023-12-19

Total Pages: 131

ISBN-13: 3384094212

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"The Mystical Path of the Golden Dawn" by Megan V. Remirez is a compelling exploration of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, a cornerstone in Western esotericism. This book unveils the order's intricate synthesis of Hermetism, Qabalah, Tarot, alchemy, and Eastern mysticism, crafting a unique path of spiritual transformation. Uncovering History Delve into the historical backdrop of the Golden Dawn, exploring its origins, evolution, and the pivotal roles played by influential figures like W.B. Yeats. This section offers a rich historical context, enhancing the understanding of the order's profound impact. Esoteric Teachings and Philosophies The heart of the book is dedicated to the teachings and philosophies of the Golden Dawn. From the mystical intricacies of Qabalah to the profound depths of Hermetic philosophy, readers are guided through a labyrinth of esoteric knowledge and practices. Rituals and Spiritual Practices Experience the mystical rituals and practices at the core of the Golden Dawn. This section provides a rare glimpse into the ceremonial aspects of the order, revealing how these rituals serve as a catalyst for spiritual transformation. Lasting Influence Concluding with reflections on the Golden Dawn's enduring influence on contemporary occult movements, the book invites readers to appreciate the order's lasting legacy in modern esoteric thought. This book is a treasure trove for both newcomers to esoteric studies and seasoned practitioners, offering a comprehensive and engaging journey into the mystical world of the Golden Dawn.

Self-Initiation Into the Golden Dawn Tradition

Self-Initiation Into the Golden Dawn Tradition PDF

Author: Chic Cicero

Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide

Published: 2002-09-08

Total Pages: 794

ISBN-13: 9781567181364

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The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn has been considered one of the most important Western magical systems for over a century. Although much of their knowledge has been published, to really enter the system required initiation within a Golden Dawn temple--until now. Regardless of your magical knowledge or background, you can learn and live the Golden Dawn tradition with the first practical guide to Golden Dawn initiation. Self-Initiation into the Golden Dawn Tradition by Chic and Sandra Tabatha Cicero offers self-paced instruction by two senior adepts of this magical order. For the first time, the esoteric rituals of the Golden Dawn are clearly laid out in step-by-step guidance that's clear and easy-to-follow. Studying the Knowledge Lectures, practicing daily rituals, doing meditations, and taking self-graded exams will enhance your learning. Initiation rituals have been correctly reinterpreted so you can perform them yourself. Upon completion of this workbook, you can truly say that you are practicing the Golden Dawn tradition with an in-depth knowledge of qabalah, astrology, Tarot, geomancy, spiritual alchemy, and more, all of which you will learn from Self-Initiation into the Golden Dawn Tradition. No need for group membership Instructions are free of jargon and complex language Lessons don't require familiarity with magical traditions Grade rituals from Neophyte to Portal Link with your Higher Self If you have ever wondered what it would be like to learn the Golden Dawn system, Self-Initiation into the Golden Dawn Tradition explains it all. The lessons follow a structured plan, adding more and more information with each section of the book. Did you really learn the material? Find out by using the written tests and checking them with the included answers. Here is a chance to find out if the Golden Dawn system is the right path for you or to add any part of their wisdom and techniques to the system you follow. Start with this book now.

Access to Western Esotericism

Access to Western Esotericism PDF

Author: Antoine Faivre

Publisher: State University of New York Press

Published: 1994-12-05

Total Pages: 388

ISBN-13: 1438402236

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This is the first systematic treatment of esotericism to appear in English. Here is also a historical survey, beginning with the Alexandrean Period, of the various esoteric currents such as Christian Kabbalah, Theosophy, Alchemy, Rosicrucianism, and Hermeticism. Common characteristics of these currents are the notion of universal interdependency and the experience of spiritual transformation. The author establishes a rigorous methodology; provides clarifying definitions of such key terms as "gnosis," "theosophy," "occultism," and "Hermeticism;" and offers analysis of contemporary esotericism based on three distinct pathways. The second half of the book presents a series of studies on several important figures, works, and movements in Western esotericism—studies devoted to some of the most characteristic and illuminating aspects that this form of thought has taken, such as theosophical speculations on androgyny, rosicrucian literature, and Masonic symbolism. The book is completed by a rich and selective Bibliography conceived as a means of orientation and a tool for research.

Esoteric Freemasonry

Esoteric Freemasonry PDF

Author: Jean-Louis de Biasi

Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide

Published: 2018-04-08

Total Pages: 264

ISBN-13: 0738752908

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The Sacred Realm of Freemasonry Awaits Esoteric Freemasonry takes you deep into the mystical side of this fascinating secret society and shows you how to carry out the most powerful practices. Learn how to enter your inner temple and accomplish the ancient mysteries. Discover the compelling links to Egyptian Freemasonry as you progress through the degrees of initiation. Using this guide's profound rituals and its exploration of Masonic tradition, you'll take the next step in your spiritual practice and improve all realms of life. As a leading Mason in Europe, Jean-Louis de Biasi was appointed Grand Officer after successfully restoring the esoteric and Egyptian degrees in one of the most important French Masonic groups, the Grand Orient of France. With access to highly restricted teachings, Jean-Louis is a foremost authority on little-known rituals and practices that can be used by lodges and individually. Freemasonry is an ancient and powerful initiatic organization, with both public and esoteric doctrines. The inner teachings and practices of the esoteric tradition are indispensable for any serious student of this often misunderstood fellowship.

Arguing with Angels

Arguing with Angels PDF

Author: Egil Asprem

Publisher: State University of New York Press

Published: 2012-04-02

Total Pages: 235

ISBN-13: 1438441924

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This fascinating work explores John Dee's Enochian magic and the history of its reception. Dee (1527–1608/9), an accomplished natural philosopher and member of Queen Elizabeth I's court, was also an esoteric researcher whose diaries detail years of conversations with angels achieved with the aid of crystal-gazer Edward Kelley. His Enochian magic offers a method for contacting angels and demons based on secrets found in the apocryphal Book of Enoch. Examining this magical system from its Renaissance origins to present day occultism, Egil Asprem shows how the reception of Dee's magic is replete with struggles to construct and negotiate authoritative interpretational frameworks for doing magic. Arguing with Angels offers a novel, nuanced approach to questions about how ritual magic has survived the advent of modernity and demonstrates the ways in which modern culture has recreated magical discourse.

Constructing Tradition

Constructing Tradition PDF

Author: Andreas Kilcher

Publisher: BRILL

Published: 2010-10-05

Total Pages: 491

ISBN-13: 9004191143

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This volume of conference proceedings investigates the various ways and patterns with which esoteric writings and groups establish their own tradition. This involves concepts of origin and memory, ways of legitimising esoteric tradition as well as techniques and practices of knowledge transmission in esotericism.

Magic and the Power of the Goddess

Magic and the Power of the Goddess PDF

Author: Gareth Knight

Publisher: Destiny Books

Published: 2008-03-27

Total Pages: 224

ISBN-13: 9781594772351

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A manual of magical and mystical techniques for contacting the Goddess within • Draws from two thousand years of source material to demonstrate the ongoing reality of the feminine power and its relevance for today • Includes rituals, exercises, and techniques for evoking the Goddess • Explains how the dynamics of the sacred or magic circle serve as a guide to living harmoniously In this wide-ranging view of magic and ritual, Gareth Knight demonstrates the presence of the Goddess throughout Western esoteric traditions. From Greek myths and the Mysteries of Isis to the emergence of the cult of the Blessed Virgin and seventeenth-century Rosicrucian spiritual alchemy, he shows how the Goddess--the elemental consciousness of Earth--has revealed herself in different times and places. Honoring her many guises, Knight explores the powers of the Goddess as maiden, mother, initiator, protector, sorceress, and faery queen. Guided meditations on each of these qualities lead the practitioner into direct contact with the potent healing energy of the Divine Feminine. The author also offers rituals, exercises, and other practical tools for integrating the Western magical tradition with worship of the Goddess. He shows how we, and our planet, have suffered due to the repression of the feminine principle. For our own health, and that of our environment as well, we must recognize the power of the Goddess within to reconstitute and guide our existence.