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Category: Video

  • ElGene’s Casts Bad Wolf

    ElGene’s Casts Bad Wolf

    With a little help from Boeing and Naval Intelligence the spiritual technology available to the large players to commit psycho-spiritual warfare is completely unleashed on any and all human oddities. The following discussion was created by AI from decent sources, and the LLM is getting better at doing your homework for you. I’d give this one a B minus. It’s taken 3 months from C level analysis of text to B minus level, I’m guessing a month and a half and it’s an A student all on its own.

    Anywho, this is a discussion on Spiritual Self Defense culled from some very good sources, and should be a good introduction to the basic concepts which have not changed over time. Please excuse the portions of in-jokes for my own amusement. It’s long form, so sit back and enjoy.

  • A second case naming the same Individual

    A second case naming the same Individual

    There is no coincidence that their Secret Security Codenames were Gog and Magog and that they thought it was funny.

    That the CIA Director and Later President would also go on to become the worlds biggest opium warlord is just icing on the pudding.

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    Notice the Google Wikipedia Disclaimer underneath the video. I studied cults in college and was also told the official party line that none of these cases could be substantiated. Well they are being substantiated now, and curiously many of the cases fell apart in FBI interrogations. What happened in those rooms I wonder?

  • Hypnotic Induction and Meditation for New Year’s Reemergent Butterflies

    Hypnotic Induction and Meditation for New Year’s Reemergent Butterflies

    Hell, you’ve already had the majority of the inductions anyway. What could this one hurt?

    But seriously. You only assume passivity under your own will, don’t let them take that from you. What you feed into the Machine on a subliminal level the machine will process.

    I made this for myself, so I trust it, but I know you can’t so there’s going to be a leap of faith to follow this road. You’re going to need headphones if you’re willing.

  • Real roughcut longform daily of some onion surfing

    Real roughcut longform daily of some onion surfing

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    Whelp, since this vid has the double whammy of shadowbans from the algorithm and being a longform screen record with voiceover I just want to avoid a stillbirth of the content covered. This video is a tie in to youtuber flesh simulator, that’s mostly to illustrate the things he mentions from the 1980s in his documentary Serial Killing for Fun and Profit, both missing a couple marks, and the worst of it being very much alive and well via the so-called darkweb. I’m no darkweb expert, partially because every time I look at it I’m nauseous for weeks, and also, don’t need Russians pushing criminal files onto this site, as they have tried to do in the past. With all that’s going on and our 30 second attention spans in the echochamber, I can’t hope to make a dent with this, but it is one of myriad reasons some days I just give up. Don’t enjoy, and if you do enjoy, maybe time to eat a bullet.

  • A YOGAPUNX Podcast on Grimoires

    A YOGAPUNX Podcast on Grimoires

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    After losing some of the recent posts to a site crash and emergency restore. I thought we’d come back strong with one of our AI discussions of materials from the library. Poor Google Notebook LM could only make sense of a few of them and some of the pronunciations are odd, but it’s a brief taste of the history of the nonfiction(?) magical writing available to yogapunx subscribers. Remember, members get access to the classified library as well as options for personal instruction in Magick, Meditiation, and sundry topics from snswrld. You can find the membership signup tab above.

  • Once upon a Satanic Panic

    Once upon a Satanic Panic

    In the current research deep dive I’m in that was stimulated by the ongoing child sex scandals and fed well upon the Flesh Simulator YouTube channel I came across this Gem. Now, leaning libertarian and chaotic neutral I can’t get on either side of the bifurcated argument my research rabbit hole is leading me down. But this nonsense from the right is why records have warning labels and innocent children were sentenced to prison for murder just for liking heavy metal. On the other hand the same media and business executives that were promoting all the hardcore imaging were in fact grooming talent and going so far as to abduct children for porn and snuff films. There aren’t going to be any easy answers on this but when a cop/pastor is your main guide you’re getting the ignoramus take.

  • Paywalling content to be reserved for YOGAPUNX

    Paywalling content to be reserved for YOGAPUNX

    You may notice that some of the deeper mystical and magical content of the site has now been moved behind a paywall. I can no longer solely bear the cost of your mystical education myself and am in need of support of the sites and the newly formed Kemetic Church of Ra. The items paywalled, can only be understood by those with a mystical practice anyway or some degree of initiation. For now, the library which contains many more initiated secrets will remain free temporarily while those that recognize there is a time limit for that generosity should not be surprised when that gets paywalled as well. If you’d like to keep resources like these available you must contribute and I can no longer tolerate the entire burden of the free rider problem myself. If this content is worth something to you, you can sign up here.

  • The Clear Problems with Faith in the Bible

    The Clear Problems with Faith in the Bible

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    Key Ideas & Facts:**

    –   **The Fictionality and Construction of Time in Abrahamic Religions:** The first source argues that Abrahamic religions rely on constructed narratives and a religious concept of time, shaped by the power of writing. Time is not simply a linear progression of events but a construct tied to the relationship between God and humanity. The conquest of time, or the claim to antiquity, is central to these religions. The veracity of the Bible depends entirely on the historicity of certain figures like Moses and Jesus who never in fact existed.

        –   *”Time, for the Abrahamic religions, is a religious construct.”*

        –   *”The Abrahamic religions are the child and grandchild of writing and the singular properties of the written word, its capacity to create an alternative reality.”*

    –   **Moses as a Composite Figure and Literary Construct:** The first source questions the historical accuracy of the Moses narrative, viewing it as a literary construction influenced by earlier Mesopotamian and Egyptian stories. It suggests Moses is a composite figure, comparable to Gilgamesh or King Arthur, existing in a liminal space between myth and reality. Attempts to historically situate Moses within specific timeframes (e.g., the Hyksos period or Akhenaten’s monotheism) are seen as problematic.

        –   *”It was during this early period of competition between cultures for pre-eminence in terms of Time or antiquity that Moses was linked to Thutmose—although there seems no profound reason for this decision except the arbitrariness of ancient scholarship.”*

        –   *”Appropriate is to view him as occupying a different reality, undefined by history and yet defined by it. He occupies metaphor and symbol, leading to other possible truths. In this, he can be justifiably compared with Gilgamesh.”*

    –   **The Exodus as Cultural Memory and Reconfigured History:** The Exodus narrative is explored as a “mnemohistory” (cultural memory) shaped by Egyptian oppression of Canaanite populations in the Late Bronze Age. The narrative provided a mythomoteur to turn a mixed freed population into a cohesive community.

        –   *”Ronald Hendel holds that Egyptian oppression of Canaanite states may have constructed a mnemohistory… which he describes as a dialectic between historical memory and ethnic self-fashioning.”*

        –   *”Throughout this process, history was reconfigured into ethnic triumph. The myth of the Israelites being an outside group compensates for their recent emergence as a group or confederacy.”*

    –   **Challenges to Biblical Literalism:** The first source challenges the literal interpretation of the Bible, particularly regarding the conquest of Canaan and the nature of early Israelite society. Archaeological evidence suggests a more complex and diverse population in the hill country than the Bible portrays.

        –   *”Biblical stories, which can more logically be seen as fabrications from the post-exilic period, trace the reasons for their having been written—and possibly why such often violent stories should still be accepted as evidence.”*

    –   **Dating of Biblical Texts and Multiple Authorship:** The first source cites scholars (Gmirkin) suggesting the Pentateuch was composed by Jewish and Egyptian scholars in Alexandria, and states that the Dead Sea Scrolls are the first extant copy, which contains copies or fragments of the Tanakh. The second source, Bart Ehrman, states a consensus among historical scholars *”that in fact the Pentateuch is not one author writing at one time, let alone Moses,”* and mentions the documentary hypothesis (JEDP theory).

    –   **The Historical Existence of Jesus: A Reassessment:** While many historians argue for the historical existence of Jesus, the evidence is far from conclusive. The first historical mention of Jesus that can be definitively proven comes from sources written approximately 200 years after his supposed lifetime. Additionally, Pontius Pilate’s court records, which have survived, contain no mention of Jesus or his trial, raising significant questions about the historicity of the events described in the New Testament.

        –   *”The earliest non-Christian references to Jesus, such as those by Tacitus and Josephus, were written decades after his supposed death and are often considered unreliable due to potential Christian interpolations.”*

        –   *”The absence of any mention of Jesus in Pontius Pilate’s court records, which detail other trials and executions, casts doubt on the historical accuracy of the New Testament accounts.”*

    –   **Limitations of Archaeological Evidence:** The third source acknowledges the limited archaeological evidence for many historical figures, including Jesus and Pontius Pilate, until recent times. The discovery of the Pilate Stone is cited as an example of how archaeological evidence can unexpectedly corroborate historical accounts, but such evidence for Jesus remains elusive.

        –   *”The reality is that we don’t have archaeological records for virtually anyone who lived in Jesus’s time and place.”*

    –   **New Testament as Historical Source:** The third source argues that the New Testament, while a religious text, can be used as a historical source when evaluated using standard historical methods. However, the lack of contemporary evidence and the potential for later embellishments must be taken into account.

        –   *”Despite the prejudices and theological preconceptions of the evangelists, they record many incidents that mere inventors would have concealed: the competition of the Apostles for high places in the Kingdom, their flight after Jesus’s arrest, Peter’s denial, the failure of Christ to work miracles in Galilee, the references of some auditors to his possible insanity, his early uncertainty as to his mission, his confessions of ignorance as to the Future, his moments of bitterness, his despairing cry on the cross, and of course his death on the cross itself as a common criminal—something that was a bit of a major scandal for early disciples after the fact.”*

    –   **Independent Historical Sources:** The third source emphasizes the importance of independent historical sources, such as Tacitus and Josephus, in confirming the existence of Jesus. However, these sources were written long after Jesus’s supposed lifetime and may reflect early Christian beliefs rather than historical facts.

        –   *”Tacitus, born a couple of decades after Jesus’s death, gives a direct reference to Jesus in his Annals (115 AD, Chapter 44 of Book 15), but his account is based on second-hand information and may have been influenced by Christian sources.”*

        –   *”Josephus, in his Antiquities of the Jews, references Jesus twice, but these passages are widely debated, with many scholars believing they were later interpolated by Christian scribes.”*

    –   **Ehrman’s Skepticism and the Nature of Historical Inquiry:** Dr. Ehrman, in the second source, approaches the texts skeptically, acknowledging cultural memory and the importance of applying historical methods to understand what probably happened. He advises historians always approach their sources critically.

        –   *”I think that’s the key—you take it with a grain of salt. You don’t immediately discount it, but you approach it critically. Historians always approach their sources critically and somewhat skeptically because if you didn’t, you’d just read every newspaper and say, ‘Oh yeah, that’s what happened.’ But you realize that when you listen to Fox News and MSNBC reporting the same event, you can’t just say they’re both right. You treat each one skeptically to try and figure out what really did happen. That’s what you do with these sources.”*

    **III. Implications & Considerations:**

    –   The sources raise important questions about the nature of historical evidence and the challenges of reconstructing the past, especially when dealing with religious texts and figures.

    –   The reliance on written narratives in shaping religious beliefs highlights the power of literature and storytelling in creating and maintaining collective identities.

    –   The debate over the historicity of Moses and Jesus underscores the tension between faith and reason and the different ways in which individuals and communities engage with religious traditions.

    **IV. Conclusion:**

    While the historical accuracy of the Moses narrative remains highly debated, the sources suggest that the Exodus story served as a crucial foundation myth for the Israelites, shaped by cultural memory and political agendas. In contrast, the historical existence of Jesus is far less certain, with the earliest reliable references appearing centuries after his supposed lifetime and no mention of him in contemporary records such as Pontius Pilate’s court documents. The sources highlight the complex interplay of history, myth, and faith in shaping religious narratives and the enduring influence of these narratives on human societies.

    **Frequently Asked Questions about Moses and Jesus Based on the Provided Texts**

    **1. Is there any evidence to suggest the Exodus story and Moses are historical, or are they primarily fictional narratives?**

    The evidence is mixed and contested. Some scholars view the Exodus story as a post-exilic fabrication designed to create a shared ethnic identity for Israel and Judah. The narrative may have roots in cultural exchanges and stories from the 2nd and 1st millennia BCE, including Mesopotamian, Canaanite, Hurrian, Hittite, and Egyptian influences. The figure of Moses himself may be inspired by figures like Sargon the Great, with the story serving as a counter-narrative to Egyptian dominance, potentially rooted in memories of Canaanite subjugation during the Late Bronze Age. Other scholars point to potential links between Moses and the ejection of the Hyksos from Egypt.

    Bart Ehrman says it is unknown whether Moses was a historical person but that *”there are historical problems with virtually all of the stories found in Exodus through Deuteronomy.”*

    **2. How do the Abrahamic religions use the concept of time differently from earlier civilizations like the Greeks?**

    Ancient civilizations like the Greeks viewed time in terms of moral equilibrium and a golden past. Returning to these values meant the past was the future. The Abrahamic religions, however, see time as focused on specific episodes and linked to a recognized and recorded event, such as the Hebrew takeover of the hill country, linking time to history. Time is consumed by the relationship between God and human beings, with a focus on the ultimate fulfillment of God’s will, after which time will become irrelevant.

    **3. What role did writing play in the development of the Abrahamic religions?**

    Writing had a powerful role in the Abrahamic religions, creating narratives, solidifying religious identities, and facilitating the spread of religious ideas. It allowed for the construction of alternative realities and the reimagining of the past. The Abrahamic religions are described as the *”child and grandchild of writing,”* as it allowed for the creation of authoritative texts and the development of complex religious ideologies.

    **4. Is there any evidence that the Exodus story was influenced by other ancient Near Eastern myths and legends?**

    Yes. Parallels exist between the Exodus narrative and other ancient Near Eastern stories, such as the birth narrative of Sargon. The Song of the Sea in Exodus 15 has connections to Canaanite mythology, the Ba’al myth, and even Mesopotamian myths like Marduk’s battle with Tiamat. The Joseph story bears similarities to Egyptian tales and wisdom literature. These connections suggest a shared cultural context and the potential borrowing or adaptation of existing narratives.

    **5. How did the worship of YHWH evolve, and what role did it play in the formation of Hebrew identity?**

    The worship of YHWH likely emerged gradually, possibly starting as a royal god within a loosely formed state in the hill country. The monotheistic YHWH state is considered to be a post-exile development. The adoption of YHWH worship played a crucial role in solidifying a distinct Hebrew identity, especially during periods of conflict and cultural interaction with neighboring groups.

    **6. Is there scholarly consensus about the authorship and dating of the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible)?**

    No. Most scholars agree that the Pentateuch was not written by Moses alone, but rather is a compilation of multiple sources written at different times. The traditional documentary hypothesis (JEDP) proposes four main sources written by different authors at different times that were spliced together. More recent scholarship has complicated this theory, but the basic idea of multiple sources remains widely accepted.

    **7. What non-Biblical evidence exists to support the existence of Jesus?**

    The earliest non-Christian references to Jesus, such as those by Tacitus and Josephus, were written decades after his supposed death and are often considered unreliable due to potential Christian interpolations. Additionally, Pontius Pilate’s court records, which have survived, contain no mention of Jesus or his trial, raising significant questions about the historicity of the events described in the New Testament.

    **8. Are there other factors that lead scholars to believe Jesus was a real person?**

    While many scholars argue for the historical existence of Jesus, the evidence is far from conclusive. The earliest Christian writings never questioned Jesus’s existence, but this may reflect the beliefs of early Christian communities rather than historical fact. The absence of contemporary records and the lack of mention in Pilate’s court documents cast doubt on the traditional narrative.

  • YOGAPUNX discussion on “High Magick”

    YOGAPUNX discussion on “High Magick”

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    Briefing Document: Ceremonial Magic and Thelemic Magick

    I. Overview

    This document analyzes two distinct but related sources on magic: excerpts from Arthur E. Waite’s “Book of Ceremonial Magic” and selected sections from Aleister Crowley’s “Magick in Theory and Practice.” Waite’s work presents a traditional, heavily Christianized system of ceremonial magic, focused on invoking divine power and controlling spirits. Crowley’s work, part of his broader Thelemic system, offers a more individualized and self-focused approach to magick, centered around discovering and enacting one’s True Will. The juxtaposition of these two provides insight into the historical evolution of occult thought and practice.

    II. Arthur E. Waite – “Book of Ceremonial Magic”:

    A. Core Themes:

    1. Divine Invocation & Protection: Waite’s extracts reveal a strong reliance on Christian prayer and invocation for protection, guidance, and power. The operator calls upon God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Virgin Mary, angels, and saints.
    • Quote: “O great God, by Whom all things have been set free, deliver me also from all evil… May the blessing of God the Father Almighty, of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, be always with me ­, Amen.” (p. 47)
    1. Hierarchical Cosmology: The texts reflect a structured universe with distinct levels: God, angels, saints, humans, and spirits (both good and evil). These beings are often invoked as intermediaries or guardians.
    • Quote: “May the blessing of the Holy Angels, Archangels, Virtues, Powers, Thrones, Dominations, Cherubim and Seraphim, be with me for ever ­, Amen.” (p. 48)
    1. Control of Spirits: A significant portion of Waite’s extracts addresses methods for controlling spirits. This includes the use of rituals, talismans, conjurations, and divine names. Spirits are characterized as both helpful and malevolent.
    • Quote: “May it Please Thee, therefore, most Precious Jesus, by the Power of this same (Name of) Jesus, to drive away the demon from me…” (p. 52)
    • Quote: “…we hereby depute unto them all power to perform exorcisms of the possessed, so that the name of Jesus Christ may be magnified, and the devil and his angels be driven to confusion” (p. 91)
    1. Emphasis on Purity and Ritual: Precise instructions are given for creating talismans, preparing instruments (like knives and pens), and performing rituals. Purity and proper timing (planetary hours) are essential.
    • Quote: “Take care not to perfect the instrument otherwise than on the day of Venus, and in the hour thereof…” (p. 156)
    • Quote: “…on the day and in the hour of Mars, the Moon waxing… a piece of virgin parchment must be prepared…” (p. 237)
    1. Specific Talismans and Their Powers: The text provides a detailed catalog of talismans with specific uses, from attracting love to achieving invisibility, reading thoughts, or opening locks, Each talisman is associated with unique symbols, materials, and evoking words.
    • Quote: “II. Gives the love and complaisance of the entire female sex… The evoking words are NADES, SURADIS, MANINER…” (p. 121)
    • Quote: “IX. Transports the possessor to any part of the world, and that without danger. The potent words are RADITUS, POLASTRIEN, TERPANDU, OSTRATA, PERICATUR, ERMAS.” (p. 123)
    1. Exorcism and Binding: The power of God and divine names is invoked to control, punish, and bind rebellious or disobedient spirits, employing threats of eternal damnation.
    • Quote: “I do hereby curse and deprive thee of all thine office, power and place; I bind thee in the depth of the Bottomless Pit, there to remain unto the Day of judgment…” (p. 233)
    1. Days of the week and planetary hours: Specific days and planetary hours are prescribed for certain rituals and operations, revealing an understanding of astrological correspondences.
    • Quote: “It will be seen from this table that there is a recurring rule of the planets in unbroken succession through the whole week…” (p. 152)

    B. Key Ideas and Facts:

    • Importance of Jesus’ name: The name of Jesus is considered a powerful tool for healing, protection, and commanding spirits.
    • Quote: “at the Name of Jesus let every knee bow, in heaven, on earth and in hell…” (p. 50)
    • Demons and their Descriptions: The text offers physical descriptions of spirits (particularly those of Mars) and associates them with specific symbols and behaviors.
    • Quote: “The Spirits of Mars have a tall body and choleric, a filthy countenance, brown, swarthy or red in colour; they have horns like the hart, claws like a griffin and they bellow like wild bulls…” (p. 85)
    • The use of blood: The text describes the use of blood, such as mole’s blood, for certain rituals, suggesting the importance of vital fluids in magical operations.
    • Quote: “thou shalt make the first knife and shalt steep it in the blood of the mole…” (p. 156)
    • Specific Conjurations: Elaborate conjurations, invoking names of God, spirits, and occult forces, are used to command spirits and achieve specific results.
    • Quote: “LUCIFER ­, OUYAR ­, CHAMERON ­, ALISEON ­, MANDOUSIN ­, PREMY ­, ORIET ­, NAYDRUS ­, ESMONY ­, EPARINESONT ­, ESTIOT ­, DUMOSSON ­, DANOCHAR ­, CASMIEL ­, HAYRAS ­, FABELLERONTHON ­, SODIRNO ­, PEATHAM ­, Come ­, LUCIFER ­. AMEN.” (p. 239)
    • Pacts with Spirits: The text acknowledges the concept of pacts with spirits, with warnings about their dangers.
    • Quote: “There are two kinds of pacts, says the Grimorium Verum, the tacit and the manifest; but know at the same time that among the several kinds of spirits there are some which bind and some which do not bind, save only in a very light manner.” (p. 254)

    III. Aleister Crowley – “Magick in Theory and Practice”:

    A. Core Themes:

    1. Thelema and True Will: Crowley’s magick centers on the concept of “Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law,” emphasizing individual autonomy, and the discovery and fulfillment of one’s “True Will.”
    • Quote: “Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law” (Title page)
    1. Magick as Self-Transformation: Magick is seen as a process of personal growth, development, and transformation through understanding and aligning with one’s true nature.
    • Quote: “Every active Member of the Order has destroyed all that He is and all that he has on crossing the Abyss; but a star is cast forth in the Heavens to enlighten the Earth, so that he may possess a vehicle wherein he may communicate with mankind.” (p. 240)
    1. The Use of Symbolism and Correspondences: Crowley employs a complex system of symbols, correspondences, and Qabalistic concepts to understand and manipulate reality. A vast range of systems from astrology, mythology, and alchemy are integrated.
    • Quote: “These symbols are all shewn in the Atu “The Hermit”. They are the powers of the Yod, whose extension is the Vau.” (p. 183)
    1. Self-Deification: The ultimate goal of magick is a kind of self-deification, the unification of the individual will with the cosmic will.
    • Quote: “I am the All, for all that exists for me is a necessary expression in thought of some tendency of my nature, and all my thoughts are only the letters of my Name.” (p. 290)
    1. Rejection of Traditional Morality: Crowley rejects traditional notions of good and evil, viewing them as subjective and often detrimental to the pursuit of one’s True Will.
    • Quote: “Good” must be defined in terms of human ideals and instincts” (p. 183)
    1. The Importance of Practice: The text stresses the importance of diligent practice, self-observation, and experimentation in the pursuit of magick.
    • Quote: “Various remarkable phenomena will very probably occur during these practices. They must be carefully analysed and recorded.” (p. 285)
    1. Hymns and Invocations: The text includes passionate invocations to deities such as Pan, as ways to evoke energy and connection to magical forces.
    • Quote: “Thrill with lissome lust of the light, O man! My man! Come careering out of the night Of Pan! Io Pan! Io Pan! Io Pan!…” (p. 178)

    B. Key Ideas and Facts:

    • The Significance of 666: The number 666 is associated with the “man” of the current aeon, expressing the power of the individual will.
    • Quote: “GR:Tau-Epsilon-Iota-Tau-Alpha-Nu = 300+5+10+300+1+50 = 666… — whose number is the number of a man…” (p. 184)
    • The Abyss and Transformation: Crowley describes the concept of “crossing the Abyss” as a complete destruction of the old self, which leads to the birth of a new, enlightened being.
    • Quote: “Every active Member of the Order has destroyed all that He is and all that he has on crossing the Abyss…” (p. 240)
    • Divination as Probability: Divination is viewed as a tool for understanding probabilities based on available facts, not as access to absolute truth.
    • Quote: “The astronomer himself has to enter a caveat. He can only calculate the probability on the observed facts. Some force might interfere with the anticipated movement.” (p. 185)
    • The Bornless One: The text includes invocations to the “Bornless One,” a powerful archetypal figure in magickal tradition.
    • Quote: “Hear Me, and make all Spirits subject unto Me: so that every Spirit of the Firmament and of the Ether…” (p. 241)
    • Ritual and symbolism: Specific rituals, such as the Star Ruby, are described, which combine gestures, words, and visualization for achieving magical states of consciousness.
    • Quote: “Facing East, in the centre, draw deep deep deep thy breath closing thy mouth with thy right forefinger…” (p. 289)
    • The importance of self-knowledge: Crowley’s emphasis on self-analysis is evident, with exercises focusing on physical and mental endurance to be recorded, as they are keys to further self-understanding.
    • Quote: “Ascertain how much alcohol you can take, and what forms of drunkenness assail you…Let all these things be carefully and conscientiously recorded; for according to your powers will it be demanded of you.” (p. 285)
    • Personal experimentation: Students are advised to adapt and create practices that fit their individual natures.
    • Quote: “Let the Zelator attach no credit to any statements that may have been made throughout the course of this instruction…” (p. 295)
    • Mortification and Self-Denial: Mortifications of the flesh are seen as potentially useful if they serve to control the practitioner and further the pursuit of their Will, but self-punishment without a purpose is discouraged.
    • Quote: “But concerning voluntary privations and tortures, without use save as against the devotee, they are generally not natural to healthy natures, and wrong.” (p. 295)

    IV. Comparison and Contrast:

    • Authority: Waite’s source relies on the authority of God and traditional religious structures. Crowley’s work emphasizes personal authority derived from one’s True Will.
    • Goal: Waite seeks divine favor and control over external forces. Crowley aims for self-transformation, and union with one’s divine nature.
    • Method: Waite utilizes Christian prayers, precise rituals, and talismans. Crowley employs symbolism, visualization, self-experimentation, and a focus on the will.
    • Cosmology: Waite presents a more traditional, Judeo-Christian view with a clear hierarchy of angels, demons and saints. Crowley presents a more fluid and personalized view with incorporation of Egyptian, Greek and Indian pantheons.
    • View of spirits: Waite views spirits as potentially dangerous forces to be controlled through ritual, names and divine power. Crowley views spirits as different expressions of one’s own nature.

    V. Conclusion:

    These two sources present radically different approaches to magic. Waite’s extracts illustrate a traditional system of ceremonial magic rooted in religious authority and seeking external control. Crowley, on the other hand, offers a more modern, individualistic system focused on self-discovery and the expression of one’s True Will. Examining these differences provides valuable context for understanding the evolution of occult thought and practice.

    F.A.Q.

    1. What is the significance of planetary hours in the context of this magical practice?

    Planetary hours, derived from a recurring sequence of planets throughout the week, are specific times within a day that are ruled by particular planets. These hours are considered significant for magical operations because it is believed that each planet exerts a unique influence. For instance, the day and hour of Venus are suitable for preparing tools, while the day and hour of Mars are used in other types of ritual work, such as making a talisman or conjuring spirits. Understanding and working with planetary hours is thought to enhance the efficacy of magical practices by aligning actions with the appropriate celestial energies.

    2. What are some examples of talismans described in these sources and what purposes do they serve?

    The texts detail numerous talismans made from specific colored satins, embroidered with particular characters, and activated by spoken words or physical gestures. For example, one talisman embroidered on black satin with silver grants the love of women when used with specific words, while a gold-colored satin talisman compels truth and confessions. Others are designed to provide the ability to travel to any location, open locks, influence people’s thoughts, protect against evil, or grant virtue. Each talisman is unique, reflecting a specific intention and requiring its own specific instructions for its creation and use.

    3. How is the name “Jesus” utilized in this system of magic?

    The name “Jesus” is used extensively for protection, healing, and invoking divine power in this system. It’s treated as a sacred name of great potency, capable of driving away demons, performing miracles, and saving those who call upon it. The texts suggest that the name of Jesus holds power over spiritual beings and that it is central to warding off evil influences, securing divine blessing, and calling on supernatural assistance. There are many prayers and conjurations that make use of this name and others associated with Christianity.

    4. What is the purpose of conjurations in these texts, and how are they structured?

    Conjurations are central to the rituals, serving as a means of communication, commands, and binding between the magician and various spiritual entities. They generally start with the invocation of divine names and authorities like God, Jesus, and Angels and then proceed to address specific spirits and call for specific actions, such as the revelation of secrets, granting a favor, or causing harm to enemies. They are often structured with clear commands, threats of excommunication, descriptions of desired outcomes and are delivered in a way that seeks to establish the magician’s authority.

    5. What is the relationship between the magician and the spirits in this tradition, and how is this relationship managed?

    The magician seeks to establish a command-based relationship with spirits. This involves compelling them to obey the magician’s will through a combination of invoking sacred names, making pacts, creating talismans, using conjurations, and performing ritual actions that are intended to bind and control. The relationship is often framed as a matter of power, with the magician seeking to assert dominance over the spirits and leverage their abilities for his own purposes, whether that is mundane or spiritual. Failure to comply with the magician’s instructions can result in threats and curses.

    6. How is the concept of “Will” presented in the second source, and how does it relate to ethical behavior?

    The concept of “Will” in the second source is presented as an intrinsic, individual drive towards self-preservation and fulfillment. The notion that a man has a right to fulfill himself to the utmost implies that all actions should ultimately support the individual’s true Will. The text distinguishes between true and false Wills, suggesting that unethical actions like murder or self-harm are caused by a false will, misaligned with the true nature of the individual. Ethical behavior is ultimately tied to acting in accordance with one’s deepest and authentic desires, properly understood.

    7. How does the second source describe the role of the initiate in terms of understanding their own nature?

    The second source emphasizes self-analysis and understanding as essential for magical practice. The initiate is urged to assess their strengths and weaknesses, including physical endurance, thought control, and emotional responses. This analysis is critical for the initiate’s understanding of their place in the universe and for self-mastery, recognizing that everything within and around them serves as a reflection of themselves. Understanding one’s limits, both in terms of their weaknesses and their strength, is part of an initiatory journey of becoming an Adept.

    8. What is the significance of the Qabalah and its correspondences in this magical practice?

    The Qabalah, with its intricate system of correspondences, provides a framework for understanding the interconnectedness of the universe, encompassing numbers, letters, planets, elements, colors, deities, and more. These correspondences are essential for magical practice. They dictate when, where, and how rituals are performed and what sorts of words, objects, and images should be utilized. The Qabalah is a tool used to organize and manipulate universal energies and forms and helps the magician tap into a deeper reality by aligning themselves with its principles. These correspondences guide magical practice by linking together seemingly disparate aspects of existence, creating a basis for magical operations.

    Ceremonial Magic Study Guide

    Quiz

    1. In the Tuesday prayer, what blessings are invoked in addition to those of God? The prayer asks for the blessings of the Holy Angels, Archangels, Virtues, Powers, Thrones, Dominations, Cherubim and Seraphim, as well as the Patriarchs and prophets, apostles, martyrs, confessors, virgins, and all the saints of God. This is in addition to the blessing of the bread and wine that was consecrated by Christ.
    2. What are some physical characteristics associated with the spirits of Mars? The spirits of Mars are said to have a tall body and choleric nature, a filthy countenance that is brown, swarthy or red, horns like a hart, claws like a griffin, and a bellow like a wild bull. They are associated with the motion of burning fire and the sign of thunder and lightning.
    3. According to the text, what is the purpose of the talismans? The talismans described in the text, in conjunction with rings and specific words, are meant to grant various powers to the bearer, including securing the love of women, compelling men to reveal secrets, teleporting across the world, opening any lock, and knowing the thoughts of others. Each talisman is said to have a specific use, and associated words, metals, colors and hand placement.
    4. What are “planetary hours” according to the text? Planetary hours are specific times during the day and night that are ruled by particular planets. They follow a recurring sequence throughout the week, with each planet ruling the first and eighth hours of the day and the third and tenth hours of the night on the day associated with it.
    5. What is the purpose of exorcising and blessing salt, and in what ritual is it used? The salt is exorcised to remove any illusions and is blessed to serve to make the virgin chart. This process is part of a larger ritual of preparing materials for magical work, and it is followed by placing the salted skin in sunlight.
    6. What is SARGATANAS said to have power over? SARGATANAS is said to have the power to make any person invisible, transport them anywhere, open all locks, reveal what is happening in private homes, and teach all the arts of the shepherds. He also commands several brigades of spirits, with others as his inferiors.
    7. What happens if an invoked spirit is disobedient? If a spirit is disobedient and does not appear or respond, the conjurer is instructed to curse the spirit, deprive them of their office, and bind them in the Bottomless Pit. They are cursed by the Company of Heaven, the Sun, the Moon, the Stars, and the Light of the Hosts of Heaven.
    8. According to the text, what is required for creating a piece of virgin parchment, and who must weave the thread? To create virgin parchment, a piece must be prepared on the day and in the hour of Mars, with the Moon waxing, and at the first hour of the day. The thread used to bind the finger must be woven by a virgin girl. The operator then pierces the finger to form a symbol with the blood.
    9. What is the “Blasting Rod,” and how should it be used? The Blasting Rod is mentioned in the text as a powerful instrument, to be held by the conjurer, that should be used while the Kabbalistic circle is described and the word “Rofocale” is pronounced in order to call spirits and is only to be used when the conjurer has been purified. The text stresses that spirits will appear when the Rod is used correctly.
    10. What are the two types of pacts mentioned, and what should one be wary of? The two kinds of pacts are tacit and manifest. One should be wary of spirits that require something personally belonging to you when you agree to a pact, as these can become guileful enemies and that they can extract a high price to be paid.

    Answer Key

    1. The prayer asks for the blessings of the Holy Angels, Archangels, Virtues, Powers, Thrones, Dominations, Cherubim and Seraphim, as well as the Patriarchs and prophets, apostles, martyrs, confessors, virgins, and all the saints of God. This is in addition to the blessing of the bread and wine that was consecrated by Christ.
    2. The spirits of Mars are said to have a tall body and choleric nature, a filthy countenance that is brown, swarthy or red, horns like a hart, claws like a griffin, and a bellow like a wild bull. They are associated with the motion of burning fire and the sign of thunder and lightning.
    3. The talismans described in the text, in conjunction with rings and specific words, are meant to grant various powers to the bearer, including securing the love of women, compelling men to reveal secrets, teleporting across the world, opening any lock, and knowing the thoughts of others. Each talisman is said to have a specific use, and associated words, metals, colors and hand placement.
    4. Planetary hours are specific times during the day and night that are ruled by particular planets. They follow a recurring sequence throughout the week, with each planet ruling the first and eighth hours of the day and the third and tenth hours of the night on the day associated with it.
    5. The salt is exorcised to remove any illusions and is blessed to serve to make the virgin chart. This process is part of a larger ritual of preparing materials for magical work, and it is followed by placing the salted skin in sunlight.
    6. SARGATANAS is said to have the power to make any person invisible, transport them anywhere, open all locks, reveal what is happening in private homes, and teach all the arts of the shepherds. He also commands several brigades of spirits, with others as his inferiors.
    7. If a spirit is disobedient and does not appear or respond, the conjurer is instructed to curse the spirit, deprive them of their office, and bind them in the Bottomless Pit. They are cursed by the Company of Heaven, the Sun, the Moon, the Stars, and the Light of the Hosts of Heaven.
    8. To create virgin parchment, a piece must be prepared on the day and in the hour of Mars, with the Moon waxing, and at the first hour of the day. The thread used to bind the finger must be woven by a virgin girl. The operator then pierces the finger to form a symbol with the blood.
    9. The Blasting Rod is mentioned in the text as a powerful instrument, to be held by the conjurer, that should be used while the Kabbalistic circle is described and the word “Rofocale” is pronounced in order to call spirits and is only to be used when the conjurer has been purified. The text stresses that spirits will appear when the Rod is used correctly.
    10. The two kinds of pacts are tacit and manifest. One should be wary of spirits that require something personally belonging to you when you agree to a pact, as these can become guileful enemies and that they can extract a high price to be paid.

    Essay Questions

    1. Compare and contrast the use of Christian and non-Christian symbolism and entities in the rituals presented in “Arthur E Waite – Book Of Ceremonial Magic,” noting the purpose of each.
    2. Analyze the role of language and specific words or phrases within the magical practices outlined in the source material, and how they are believed to achieve their effects.
    3. Discuss the ethical and practical considerations presented in the texts concerning the interaction with spirits and the pursuit of magical power.
    4. Explore the different forms of self-discipline and preparation outlined in “liber4 part3 magic in theory and practice” and how these practices relate to the attainment of magical ability.
    5. Analyze the concept of Will, as presented in “liber4 part3 magic in theory and practice,” and discuss its significance in occult practice and the attainment of personal goals.

    Glossary of Key Terms

    • Adept: A person who has achieved a high level of skill and knowledge in a particular area, often used in the context of occult or magical traditions.
    • AUMGN: A word used to symbolize the whole course of spiritual life. A is formless hero; U is the six-fold solar sound of physical life; M is the silence of death; and GN is the nasal sound of generation and knowledge.
    • Assiah: In Kabbalah, the lowest of the four worlds, the material world.
    • Atu: A term used in the Qabalah and associated with specific cards in the Tarot.
    • Clavicle: A term referring to a key or text that unlocks secrets, often used in the context of magic.
    • Conjugation: The act of binding or compelling a spirit through invocation or prayer; a formal summoning of spirits.
    • Exorcism: A ritual process intended to remove or expel evil spirits or negative influences.
    • Goëtic: Refers to a form of magic that involves summoning and controlling spirits, often associated with darker or more manipulative practices.
    • Grimoire: A textbook of magic, typically containing instructions for rituals, spells, and other magical practices.
    • Hand of Glory: A magical object made from the hand of a hanged man, believed to have the power to open locks.
    • Hoor-paar-Kraat: The term refers to Horus in his silence and is a concept central to Crowley’s Thelema, symbolizing the hidden and inner self.
    • Ipsissimus: The highest grade in certain occult orders; a state of complete freedom from limitation.
    • Kabbalah: A system of Jewish mysticism that interprets the scriptures and creation through symbols and numbers.
    • Lamen: A magical symbol or emblem worn as a talisman, often associated with ceremonial magic.
    • Liber: Latin for “book,” often used in the titles of occult texts, as in Liber 777
    • Lucifuge Rofocale: A demonic entity in occult lore, often associated with pacts and the acquisition of wealth.
    • Maat: A concept meaning Truth and is the title given to the Master of the Temple in one of the texts.
    • Necromancer: One who practices necromancy; that is, the magic art of conjuring up the spirits of the dead for purposes of divination or to use their powers.
    • Pantacle: A talisman with a specific magical purpose, typically a disc or flat object bearing symbols or sigils.
    • Pentagram: A five-pointed star, used in various magical traditions and practices.
    • Planetary Hours: Specific time periods during the day and night associated with particular planets, thought to be conducive to certain magical practices.
    • Qabalah (also spelled Kabbalah): A system of Jewish mysticism that interprets the scriptures and creation through symbols and numbers.
    • Sephiroth: The ten emanations or attributes through which the divine manifests in the Qabbalah.
    • Sigil: A symbol created for a specific magical purpose; often used in talismans.
    • Talisman: An object believed to have magical powers, often used for protection or to bring about a specific result.
    • Tetragrammaton: The Hebrew name of God, represented by the letters YHWH, considered highly sacred in various magical traditions.
    • Thelema: A philosophy and spiritual system developed by Aleister Crowley, centered around the principle “Do what thou wilt.”
    • Yetzirah: In Kabbalah, the world of formation, one of the four main levels of creation.
    • Zelator: A specific grade in certain occult systems, typically that of a student or an initiate.
  • Low Magic. Crystals, Hoodoo, Herbs, and Altars

    Low Magic. Crystals, Hoodoo, Herbs, and Altars

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    One of the major problems I have with the Western Mystery Tradition is its ignorance of “Low Magic” techniques and disdain for practices like witchcraft and Hoodoo. This week we’ll be diving into both High and Low magic to round out your arsenal.