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Books > Mind, Body & Spirit > The Occult
In this work, H. Spencer Lewis leads an investigation and
discussion on the cyclical hidden forces which work to alter and
affect our lives each day. Notable within the occult movement for
his research and accounts of forces unknown, Lewis pioneered a
system that explains much of the unusual events that beset both
people and the world at large. Namely that a supreme and unending
series of cycles permeate the universe, themselves influenced by
cosmic forces acting beyond our planet and solar system. These
forces span all manner of things; life and death, the creation of
souls, and the very passage of time. Each of the phenomena for
which the cyclical forces are responsible receive explanation.
Lewis was fascinated by this background energy, and would even
invent devices intended to detect and measure cosmic rays. This
book also acts as a life guide; by observing, predicting and acting
according to the cyclical phenomena in our lives, we may enjoy
fortune, prosperity and harmony in everyday existence.
A visual feast of eclectic artwork informed and inspired by
spiritual beliefs, magical techniques, mythology and otherworldly
experiences. Mystical beliefs and practices have existed for
millennia, but why do we still chase the esoteric? From the
beginning of human creativity itself, image-makers have been drawn
to these unknown spheres and have created curious artworks that
transcend time and place - but what is it that attracts artists to
these magical realms? From theosophy and kabbalah, to the zodiac
and alchemy; spiritualism and ceremonial magic, to the elements and
sacred geometry - The Art of the Occult introduces major occult
themes and showcases the artists who have been influenced and led
by them. Discover the symbolic and mythical images of the
Pre-Raphaelites; the automatic drawing of Hilma af Klint and Madge
Gill; Leonora Carrington's surrealist interpretation of myth,
alchemy and kabbalah; and much more. Featuring prominent,
marginalised and little-known artists, The Art of the Occult
crosses mystical spheres in a bid to inspire and delight. Divided
into thematic chapters (The Cosmos, Higher Beings, Practitioners),
the book acts as an entertaining introduction to the art of
mysticism - with essays examining each practice and over 175
artworks to discover. The art of the occult has always existed in
the margins but inspired the masses, and this book will spark
curiosity in all fans of magic, mysticism and the mysterious.
"It is not the time of the creation in itself that disturbs us, nor
is it the so-called fall or the time when mankind wandered the
world between light and darkness. What disturbs us is what we
suspect transpired in the time before time." Magister Amarantus
Sodalitas Sanctum Seth Classical Gnosticism points to a path, which
is not a path, but rather a path between the paths. It is a story
told at the strike of the thirteenth hour on the mystical dial of
the wise; from a mental position between truth and falsehood,
reality and dream, in a spiritual place that unites all things in a
point without a centre. The tradition, to which this book refers is
based on Biblical stories of creation, the nature of God, how man
came to live on earth, and how we may recapture what humanity lost.
This tradition has a systematic enquiring approach to redemption.
It thus relies on our own understanding and our own experiences to
grasp it. This is the path called Gnosticism; Sethian Gnosticism.
The Book of Black Magic is Arthur Edward Waite's magnum opus of
occult lore; this edition contains the author's original icons,
symbols, seals and drawings. This supreme guide to occultist
history, lore, magick, and ceremony is split into two parts: The
first is entitled ""The Literature of Ceremonial Magic."" Here,
Waite examines the ritualistic traditions which surrounding the
occult movement for centuries. He notes various texts, and how
these had a bearing upon the practice of the occult and of magical
ceremony. The second part, ""The Complete Grimoire,"" concerns how
those who practice black magic and occult ritual become versed in
the craft. The stringent physical and mental requirements, and the
need to practice a spiritual attunement and inner ablution, is
detailed. Astronomical knowledge of the planets and their movements
is a necessity, as is possession of a variety of instruments, plus
a deep knowledge of the various symbols and scripts used in
occultism.
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