Operation Star Gate, care to read along?

Ok, so these are purportedly the key documents declassified in the early 2000s about CIA, DIA, DOD, etc experiments in psychic spying. These were presented to Congress as straight fact, and barely reported outside of fringe media. I have deliberately tried to avoid Viet-nam era Men Who Stare at Goats material, or the Army’s projects with the Monroe institute on the Gateway experience. The doc at the top was a little harder to track down, but the others are all over the internet, and given my recent operation starseed revelations, I decided to start here to find the FBI and Hollywood links to the programs. The last doc is also interesting because it comes from the NSAs public archive and so should have some kind of alternate take on the subject advancing their agenda. Regardless. This is what the internet spits out in a quick declassified parapsychology search, so let’s have a fun little peruse on their take on it. FAQ on Project Sun Streak and Remote Viewing

YOGAPUNX discussion on “High Magick”

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: B. Key Ideas and Facts: III. Aleister Crowley – “Magick in Theory and Practice”: A. Core Themes: B. Key Ideas and Facts: IV. Comparison and Contrast: 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

YOGAPUNX PODCAST SERIES ON CONSPIRACIES -THE TOWER

Briefing Document: Power, Language, and Manipulation I. The Corruption of Language: Doublespeak & Newspeak II. Reframing Reality and Manipulating Perception III. Language as a Tool of Power IV. Espionage & Intelligence: A Historical Perspective V. MK Ultra: CIA Experiments in Mind Control VI. Oligarchy: Rule by the Wealthy Few VII. Conclusion The provided sources highlight how power is wielded through various means – language, deception, manipulation, and control of institutions. They underscore the importance of critical thinking and awareness of the ways in which those in power can shape our perceptions and realities. The analysis of language and power within both historical and contemporary contexts serves as a warning and a call to action. The lessons of MKUltra and the analysis of Aristotle’s warnings concerning oligarchy further reinforce the critical need to remain vigilant against those who seek to control society through deception and manipulation. FAQ on Language Manipulation, Covert Operations, and Oligarchic Tendencies Briefing Document: Analysis of BlackRock, CIA Operations & the Hunt for Bin Laden Introduction This document analyzes three distinct sources: a video essay on the financial firm BlackRock, a breakdown of the CIA’s MKUltra program, and a deep dive into CIA operations including the exfiltration of diplomats from Iran, covert actions in Lebanon, and the pursuit and eventual killing of Osama bin Laden. These sources, while seemingly disparate, offer insights into the complexities of power, influence, and the often-hidden mechanisms that shape our world. Briefing Document: Michael Aquino & Snuff Film Industry I. Michael Aquino and Mind War This section focuses on Michael Aquino, his background, and his theory of “Mind War.” A. Aquino’s Background: B. The Concept of Mind War: C. Controversial Elements: II. The Dark World of the Snuff Film Industry This section explores the network involved in the production and distribution of snuff films. A. Key Players and Networks: B. Methods and Operations: C. Mob Involvement: D. Aftermath: III. Overlapping Themes: IV. Conclusion: These sources paint a disturbing picture of individuals operating in the shadows. Michael Aquino, despite his background in military intelligence, is a controversial figure whose theories on “Mind War” raise significant concerns about manipulation and the potential for abuse. The snuff film industry reveals a depraved and organized network of individuals exploiting and abusing children for profit and possibly other purposes. Both cases expose the potential for misuse of power, hidden agendas, and the dangers of unchecked authority. This briefing document should provide a solid overview of the key themes and important facts within the source materials provided. Let me know if you need further clarification or analysis. FAQ: Exploring Controversial Themes in Occultism, Psychological Warfare, and the Underground Exploitation Industry 1. Who is Michael Aquino and what is the Temple of Set? Michael Aquino was a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, specializing in military intelligence and psychological operations. He is also known for founding the Temple of Set, a theistic Satanic organization, after leaving Anton LaVey’s Church of Satan. The Temple of Set worships the Egyptian deity Set, who is considered the adversary of Osiris. Unlike the Church of Satan, which often views Satan as a symbol of independence, Aquino’s Temple of Set involves literal worship of a deity. The Temple of Set is the only international satanic organization fully recognized by the U.S. government. 2. What is “Mind War” as proposed by Michael Aquino, and how does it differ from traditional psychological operations (psyops)? Aquino proposed “Mind War” as a more aggressive form of psychological warfare. It moves beyond traditional psyops, which he saw as limited and often treated with skepticism by the military. Mind War aims to “convince” all participants in a conflict that “we will win” through a comprehensive strategy that begins long before physical combat, targeting the enemy’s entire society, not just its military. Aquino emphasizes that Mind War relies on truth and moral superiority to achieve its goals rather than half-truths or lies. Unlike traditional psyops, Mind War does not prohibit targeting one’s own citizens. The ultimate goal of mind war is to make the target believe they made their own decisions. 3. How does Aquino suggest using technology and environmental factors in Mind War? Aquino explores the use of naturally occurring conditions and technological means to influence human susceptibility to ideas. He suggests timing campaigns to align with fluctuations in the Earth’s electromagnetic field caused by sunspot eruptions and gravitational stresses. Aquino also discusses the potential impact of atmospheric ionization, and extremely low-frequency (ELF) waves, and infrasound on human emotional and cognitive states, claiming these can be used to create more suggestible target audiences, making them more open to specific messaging. His theories lean heavily into the idea that the mind’s functioning is influenced by a wide variety of factors. 4. Was Michael Aquino ever implicated in criminal activity? While never officially charged or convicted, Aquino was implicated in the Presidio daycare center child abuse scandal. Despite accusations, and allegations of a young girl identifying him as a perpetrator, he maintained his innocence. He stated he was assigned to the National Defense University in Washington D.C. during the time the allegations took place. Also, while he was not directly implicated in any crimes, Aquino has also been interviewed about the murder of a man committed by a Satanist Church member where he was the head acolyte. 5. What were some of the main aspects of the underground child exploitation film industry as revealed in the documents? The documents revealed a deeply disturbing underground industry focused on the production and distribution of child exploitation material. The networks involved included seemingly legitimate operations like “Brother Paul’s Children’s Mission” and other programs like “Father Bud’s Boys Farm”, used as fronts for the abuse and exploitation of young boys. These operations spanned multiple states and often involved wealthy and influential individuals. The structure included abusers, filmmakers, and those responsible for film development, distribution, and mail forwarding. 6. What kind of connections and networks were involved in this exploitation film industry? The operations were complex, involving

Alchemy 101 A YOGAPUNX Podcast and Full Briefing

Briefing Document: Alchemy and Mystical Transformation I. Core Alchemical Concepts & Processes II. Symbolism and Interpretation III. Spiritual and Mystical Dimensions IV. Key Figures V. The Emerald Tablet VI. Key Themes and Observations Conclusion: These sources paint a rich picture of alchemy, not just as a precursor to modern chemistry, but as a profound spiritual discipline focused on the transformation of the individual and the realization of the divine within. It is about the journey into the inner self as much as it is about the external world and the materials used in practices. The core alchemical processes and concepts are highly symbolic, intended to unlock the depths of the unconscious mind and bring about spiritual evolution. Alchemy – A Journey of Transformation Key Themes: Important Figures and Concepts: Symbolism: Conclusion: These excerpts provide a foundation for understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of alchemy. It is not simply a historical pursuit, but a framework for understanding the self and the interconnectedness of existence. The alchemical journey is portrayed as a quest for inner transformation and the integration of all aspects of the self, a journey toward achieving the perfection symbolized by the Philosopher’s Stone. The emphasis is on spiritual growth through the symbolic transformation of matter. Top of Form FAQ on Alchemy Bottom of Form Alchemy Study Guide Quiz Instructions: Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each. Quiz Answer Key Essay Questions Instructions: Answer the following questions in a well-organized essay format. Glossary of Key Terms Alchemical and Occult Studies Review Quiz Quiz Answer Key Essay Questions Glossary of Key Terms

The Magic Path of Tantra from the International Nath Order

This post provides a summary and analysis of excerpts from “The Magick Path of Tantra” by Shri Gurudev Mahendranath, now available in our library.  A little Introduction on the Shri from Thelemapedia: Shri Gurudev Mahendranath From Thelemapedia Categories: Gurus | Mystics | Occultists | Poets | Tantrics | Writers Shri Gurudev Mahendranath (April 29, 1911–August 30, 1991) was a British occultist, mystic, writer, poet, sannyasi, sadhu, tantric guru, and Avadhut. He was introduced to Thelema by Aleister Crowley and espoused the tantric philosophy of Svecchachara which he considered the Sanskrit equivalent of Thelema. [edit] Biography Born Lawrence Miles in London, England on April 29, 1911, his interests in the area of spiritual investigation and the Pagan way of life began at an unusually early age. During his childhood, he had a number of unique experiences which began the course of his inner development and later led to his spiritual attainment and recognition by a vast public. He was initiated by his Great Aunt Madam Clay Palmer, the Witch of Rottingdean, near Brighton, England, into her line of Hereditary Witchcraft when he was in his early teens and he knew Gerald Gardiner, founder of Modern Witchcraft, or Wicca, was active in Gardiner’s Bricket Wood coven in Hertfordshire, and informed Gardiner of traditional rites, which seem to have otherwise been borrowed from Aleister Crowley’s writings. As a young man, Shri Mahendranath met and exchanged ideas with the advanced thinker and mystic, Aleister Crowley. Personal experiences and the advice of Mr. Crowley suggested that he might gain valuable insight by the deeper study of meditation and the I Ching oracle with Indian and other Asian Masters. After some years, and a detour to Australia where he was recorded as being active in Witchcraft, Shri Mahendranath travelled back across South East Asia and arrived in India on Guru Purnima, July 14, 1953. On this auspicious date, he was given initiation as a sannyasi into the Adinath sampradaya by H.H. Shri Sadguru Lokanath, the Avadhut of the Himalayas. He was later given Tantric initiation by Shri Pagala Baba of Ranchi into the Uttara Kaula sect of Northern Tantrics and became his successor. During his life as a sannyasi, Shri Mahendranath traveled to Ceylon, Thailand, Bangladesh, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Australia. He also received initiations as a Bhutanese Lama, Meditation Master in Soto Zen, Taoism, and both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. He founded Amookos and the International Nath Order (originally Western Nath Order) to present and promote his own synthesis of the tantric teachings of the Adinath and Uttara Kaula lineages as a spiritual path for the western householder. Initiates of his International Nath Order and Amookos are known as Naths. Shri Gurudev Mahendranath left his body and achieved Mahasamadhi on August 30, 1991. His last residence was his hermitage—Shambhala Tapowan—near the Vatrak river, in the state of Gujarat, India. He thought he was the last guru of both the Adi-Nath and Uttara Kaula tantric lineages, but was unaware that Pagala Baba’s guru in the Uttara Kaula line, Thakar Kalachand had also initiated a female yogini, Mahaswari Ma who had in turn initiated Kulavadhut Sampranand, who survives into the 21st Century. C.E., alongside the Westernised groups Shri Mahendranath started. He was therefore not in a position to merge the Uttara Kaula and Adi Nath traditions. The Adi Nath tradition is to rest in another Nath lineage as well as continuing in the various Westernised groups with Adi Nath origins that were begun with Shri Mahendranath’s initiatives. [edit] Writings Shri Gurudev Mahendranath wrote numerous articles and essays on tantra and the spiritual life, including the Twilight Yoga Trilogy, the Levogyrate Tantra, and The Londinium Temple Strain, subsequently collected under the title The Scrolls of Mahendranath. These works present the essentials of spiritual life and the tantric path in a humorous, non-dogmatic and non-sectarian manner. At one point your author reached out to join his order and never heard back. His text on The Magic Path of Tantra explores the Tantric tradition, particularly within the context of the Nath lineage, and presents a unique perspective on enlightenment, spirituality, and the nature of human existence. The document emphasizes the practical application of Tantric principles for achieving personal liberation and a more fulfilling life. Main Themes and Ideas: Key Quotes: Conclusion: “The Magick Path of Tantra” presents a distinctive view of Tantra, emphasizing personal experience, the transformative power of orgasm, and a rejection of restrictive dogma. The text encourages readers to actively engage with their lives and develop their own “Think Power” to achieve liberation and a more fulfilling existence. The author positions himself as a guide, drawing upon personal experiences and lineage to offer insights into the Tantric path. The International Nath Order serves as the organization committed to maintaining and spreading these teachings. The Magick Path of Tantra: A Study Guide Quiz Instructions: Answer each question in 2-3 sentences. Quiz Answer Key Deeper questions for thought: Frequently Asked Questions on the Magick Path of Tantra Glossary of Key Terms Atma Jnan: Self-realization, the understanding of one’s true nature, and an essential step towards enlightenment in Tantra. Diksha: Initiation into a spiritual tradition or path; involves a formal ceremony or transmission of knowledge. Kaula: An early term for what is now known as Tantra, referring to a specific lifestyle and spiritual practice. Kleshas: The five pain-bearing obstructions or causes of suffering, identified in yoga philosophy: ego, ignorance, repulsion, attachment, and clinging to life. Kutir: A small hut or simple dwelling, often used as a place of retreat and meditation. Mahasamadhi: The conscious and intentional departure of a yogi’s soul from their physical body; the final step towards complete enlightenment. Moksha: Liberation or enlightenment; the state of freedom from the cycle of rebirth and suffering. Natha: Another early term for Tantra, often associated with a specific lineage or tradition. Parampara: A traditional lineage or succession of teachers, passing down spiritual knowledge and practices. Purusha: The Cosmic Spirit or Conscious Thinking Power that permeates the universe, according to Nath philosophy. Shakti: The divine feminine energy, often seen as a goddess, and the counterpart to Shiva’s masculine energy. In Tantra, it also refers to the female partner in spiritual practice. Shmashan: A cremation ground, a place often used by sadhus for meditation and contemplation on death. Sannyas/Sannyasi: The renunciation of worldly attachments and the adoption of an ascetic way of life; a sadhu is a sannyasi. Uttara Kaula: A specific sect or lineage within the Tantric tradition, often referred to as the Northern Tantric sect.

Chicken Qabalah Read By Lon Milo DuQuette

This book has been on my wishlist for a while and I stumbled across these videos in r/occult on reddit. I am familiar with Lon as he is a luminary in the O.T.O. with whom I have taken initiation, as well as reading his book on the Thoth tarot, which is quite good though I find very different meanings in the same cards. The videos are being reposted on the Youtube channel Arcanum Luminarium for posterity, though Lon posts them himself on Facebook. Nevertheless, I’ll also post them here so that I can enjoy them with my own readers. Let’s dive into what Lon’s alter ego/character/literary device the Venerable Rabbi Lamed Ben Clifford has to teach us, shall we? View the entire playlist here

Kundalini Activation Syndrome and How to Cope

As we’ve given a technique to trigger Kundalini in our discussion of the Tarot card The Hanged Man, this would be an excellent time to discuss what’s known as Kundalini Activation Syndrome as the easy trigger of withholding ejaculation means that many Westerners can invoke an experience for which they are totally unprepared. Many, who have had this energy aroused by trauma, danger, drugs, or spiritual techniques practiced without guidance and preparation ultimately find themselves institutionalized in mental facilities or jails. Others seek to dampen the energy through alcohol and sedative drugs, destroying the psyche and persona until a better way is found to express the energy. If these apply to you, or you’d like to pre-prepare, let’s explore what’s happening internally and what you can do to channel and harness the energy. The Kundalini awakening is a mysterious and powerful phenomenon that has captured the imagination of spiritual seekers for centuries. It is said to be the unlocking of the divine energy that resides at the base of the spine, and its ascent through the chakras can lead to a profound transformation of the mind, body, and soul. Those who have experienced Kundalini awakening describe it as a state of heightened awareness, where the senses become more acute and the mind is flooded with a sense of awe and wonder at the universe around us. It is as if a veil has been lifted, revealing the true nature of reality and our place within it. But the Kundalini awakening is not without its dangers. The sudden influx of energy can be overwhelming, causing physical and emotional discomfort, and leading to a sense of disorientation and confusion. The unprepared seeker may find themselves lost in a world of delusion, unable to distinguish reality from fantasy. Yet for those who are ready, the Kundalini awakening can be a life-changing experience, leading to a greater understanding of the self and a deeper connection to the divine. It is a journey of self-discovery, where the seeker must confront their deepest fears and desires in order to transcend them. In the end, the Kundalini awakening is not just a spiritual phenomenon, but a profound testament to the power of the human spirit. It is a reminder that we are all capable of greatness, and that the universe is full of mysteries waiting to be unravelled. So embrace the journey, and let the Kundalini awaken within you. What is Kundalini? According to authors Mini Sharma,1Mondeep Dhankar,1 and Deepak Kumar2 “Kundalini,” meaning “coiled-up” in Sanskrit, is a type of Hindu Yoga practice. 3 It is also related to the practice of all kinds of Hindu tantra, Tibetan Buddhism, Chinese Qigong (Chi Kung), and some Eastern martial arts. 3 According to the yoga tradition, kundalini is like an energy, a serpent, or a goddess that lies dormant at the base of the spine of all human beings. 3 Sivananda says that the awakening of kundalini manifests itself through various physical and psychological signs and symptoms such as feeling the currents of prana (vital energy) rising to the Sahasrara chakra (thousand-petalled: the individual’s center of spirit, enlightenment, wisdom, universal consciousness, and connection to higher guidance), feeling vibrations of prana in different parts inside the body, feeling electric-like currents flow up and down the nerves, experiencing bliss, having divine visions, and getting inspiration and insight. When kundalini is at one chakra, intense heat is felt there, and when it leaves that center for the next chakra, the former chakra becomes very cold and appears lifeless. 3 Many Mind/Body sciences have been developed to awaken this energy, which is seen by these traditions as a Universal good. However, in the unprepared, the accidental triggering of this process is often identified as psychosis or bipolar disorder. Given some of the symptoms, we will see why. According to the Sai Ayurvedic Institute symptoms of the awakening are: Muscle twitches, cramps, or spasms Energy rushes or immense electricity circulating the body Itching, vibrating, prickling, tingling, stinging, or crawling sensations Intense heat or cold Involuntary bodily movements: jerking, tremors, shaking; feeling an inner force pushing one into postures or moving one’s body in unusual ways. (May be misdiagnosed as epilepsy, restless legs syndrome, or PLMD) Alterations in eating and sleeping patterns Episodes of extreme hyperactivity or, conversely, overwhelming fatigue Intensified or diminished sexual desires Headaches, pressures within the skull Racing heartbeat, pains in the chest Digestive system problems Numbness or pain in the limbs (particularly the left foot and leg) Pains and blockages anywhere; often in the back and neck Emotional outbursts; rapid mood shifts; seemingly unprovoked or excessive episodes of grief, fear, rage, depression Spontaneous vocalizations (including laughing and weeping) — are as unintentional and uncontrollable as hiccoughs Hearing an inner sound or sounds, classically described as a flute, drum, waterfall, birds singing, bees buzzing but which may also sound like roaring, whooshing, or thunderous noises or like ringing in the ears Mental confusion; difficulty concentrating Altered states of consciousness: heightened awareness; spontaneous trance states; mystical experiences (if the individual’s prior belief system is too threatened by these, they can lead to bouts of psychosis or self-grandiosity) Heat, strange activity, and/or blissful sensations in the head, particularly in the crown area Ecstasy, bliss, and intervals of tremendous joy, love, peace, and compassion Psychic experiences: extrasensory perception; out-of-body experiences; past life memories; astral travel; direct awareness of auras and chakras; contact with spirit guides through inner voices, dreams, or visions; healing powers Increased creativity: new interests in self-expression and spiritual communication through music, art, poetry, etc. Intensified understanding and sensitivity Insight into one’s own essence Enhanced awareness of one’s energetic environment (including “impressions” from others) Enlightenment experiences Sense of a more expansive reality, transcendent awareness All of these psychophysical changes brought on rapidly and a source of clear distress can send the practitioner right to Doctors, counselors, priests, cult leaders, or whatever source of guidance they can locate to try and make sense of the experience. The real problem is, the unwary practitioner

We kill our shamans

One of the problems I encounter living as a mystic in the western world, is there is no respect for individuals living in altered states of consciousness. Whether drug induced, pursued through meditation or ecstatic practice, or the product of full-blown psychosis. The individual in an altered state is uniformly shunned, feared, beaten, incarcerated, or killed. It has been repeatedly shown even by western science, first in the 50s and 60s, then again starting with new research in the early 2000s that psychosis is functionally the same as dreaming while awake. (Tyrelll and Griffin BMJ 2007;335:91) In the developing world, and throughout history indigenous cultures have treated this as a gift and a source of great wisdom, while western culture has decided that it would rather harm or outright kill the waking dreamer. As a mystic who entered my path as a result of repeated psychotic episodes, I have experienced first hand the carceral abuse and chemical destruction of the mental health industry, even going so far as to join that industry as a worker for a brief time to try and mitigate some of the abuse for the few people I could reach, and to validate the experiences of the psychotic. My research, both academic and subjective has led me to the conclusion that this society has shut out any hope of contacting greater reality in favor of the comfortable somnambulance of the world of death and destruction. Academia and science have had a choice, the whole academy was based on Plato who explicitly stated that this world was an illusion and that pointing out the path to reality would likely get you killed. Furthermore, continuing hard scientific evidence that consciousness is fundamental to the nature of reality gets ignored or explained away when quantum experiments should absolutely prove that we should be studying the power of consciousness. Instead we rely on the medical model and the theory of disease to “treat” those we should be training to reveal visions, heal the sick, and predict the future as well a showing the gate to a realer reality than the one we are interacting in. On the Tree of Life the path upwards from our material world to the higher dimensions goes through the unconscious at Yesod. The only living people that can guide us on this path are those gifted individuals who are able to tread the unconscious while awake. They are the evidence that there is in fact another world. We can thank them for even knowing there is a possibility of an afterlife. The somnambulist, well adjusted to a sick and dying world, cannot be our guide out of the four-dimensional prison that we are in. While science edges ever closer to the admission that higher realms exist and magic is real, the increasing stress of just existing in the modern world pushes more and more towards psychosis. The disease is forcing us towards the cure whether the doctors like it or not. More mystics and shamans are slipping through the cracks. More weirdos are finding their comfort in alternative spiritualities and finding their voice on the Internet. Listen to them. Not everything the active psychotic says can be applied to the current reality, and you might have a hard time picking gems from psycho-babble but those of us that can travel back and forth between worlds do have something to offer. We need you normies of the West to please stop killing us and give us a space to share our gifts.

Robert M. Place on the Synchronicity Podcast

In looking for more background on alchemy and tarot I stumbled upon this podcast with Robert M. Place the originator of the Alchemical Tarot deck. An accomplished historian of the tarot, he goes into a lot of detail about how the tarot can be an alchemical manual, despite not being the ancient work of wisdom that some occultists believed. It’s a 2 hour program, but if you’ve got some time dive in, it is informative.