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Internet Book of Shadows, (Various Authors), [1999], at sacred-texts.com
Treatise on Mind
From: The Tigress
Fromthe moment that 2cells form a zygote, wesee the interaction
of informational process - recognition, communication, interaction,
integration, re-stabilization and reproduction and or re-structuriz-
ation. This cycle of life can be see from the barest combinations of
any two elemental components beginning at the lowest atomic desig-
nations of energy and throughout the continuum of increasing com-
plexity - perhaps far beyond our capabilities
to understand. *** If consciousness can be defined as an awareness
of integrity through this process of self recognition; then conscious-
ness can be easily applied to that which is non-human.***
From the most basicinteractions of chemistry, wefind that evenon
an atomic level there is to be found this type of consciousness. We
have become aware of the atom's necessary maintenance of it's own
structure through the evidence of necessary balancing of protons,
neutrons and electrons; the importance of electron shell valences is
also a reminder of this type of integrity. Even on an atomic level,
there is a form of awareness of self-integrity in order to maintain
structure and identity.
This process ofawareness is alsoa geniusof discrimination. A
form of identification of self & non self on an energetic level.
There is a borrowing, and sometimes a sharing energetically, yet when
this process of self recognition begins to fail we see the destruction
of the matter it involves <this is evident with atomic structure and
also evident at the human level in the study of cancer.> Therefore we
might look at this process of self-recognition and maintenance and
examine it's nature in order to find its function and capabilities.
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When we lookat different typesof matter, wefind that themore
simple the atomic structure of the mass, the less complex its process
of "consciousness" needs to be. Things which are comprised of only
one atomic component do not need complex processes of communication
between those components. Thus the level of consciousness is rather
low on an evolutionary scale of creativity, yet we also see that these
types of things are far more stable in regards to their integrity -
far less vulnerable to destruction. In example, it takes an enorm-
ously concentrated force of heat to break the integrity of an atom...-
yet a mere 2000 degree flame will not only destroy the integrity of
human consciousness, but also destroy the integrity of the individual
component molecules which form the material mass of a human to their
lowest forms as individual atoms.
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Whenwe look at theforces involved incommunication of energy,
we see a flowing medium of different frequencies within a single
spectrum of energetic potential. Elemental energies and forces
<light, sound, temperature, pressure, magnetism, electricity...>
differentiate and vary in intensity and frequency yet are very alike
in that they are all means of transferring energy as a form of com-
munication which can be informative/stabilizing or disinformative/des-
tructive, depending on the structure of the "consciousness" they
encounter. It may be perceived that the more complex the structure,
the lower the frequency of the integrity of that structure and the
more vulnerable that structure is to disinformation.
The more diverse the components are that are included within a
thing, and the more efficient the means of communication within the
structure of that thing; the lower the common denomination of freq-
uency of integrity must be in order that the informational frequency
will not be destructive to any of the component parts. To analyze
this statement we must look at other analogies within our environment.
Firstly I would like to examine the nature of sound.
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Sound waves come in varying frequencies and modulations, and as
humans we assign different notes to those steps within the frequency
spectrum which we can differentiate and perceive. If we play several
notes simultaneously, we find that in order to maintain a balance
harmonically, we must play notes that match each others modulation.
You can play a "C" note at any octave and in fact play all "C" notes
simultaneously and you will find that within the frequency range
these notes will compliment each other, in fact they will contribute/-
share energy with each other. WE find similar matching if we look at
musical chording. If you play the notes "F" and "C" , the sharing of
energy vibrationally between those two ranges of frequency will in
fact create the note of "A" in the range in which the two notes
frequencies overlap. In this way communication is informative and in
fact the "whole is greater" than the sum of its parts. Similarly,
playing two notes which lie in the same modulation frequencies simul-
taneously will increase the duration of the vibration compared to the
duration if each note were played alone.
When we examine the sharing of electrical information at an
atomic level, we see that through the temporary sharing of electrons
in a phase path also indicates something that we might consider as
investing a thing <atom> with more than the sum of its parts. Simil-
arly in using electric frequencies in a series, we store information
on silicon chips which invest them with more than they would be if one
simply looked at the electrical and silicon components alone. This
transference of energy is also a transference of information in
frequencies which in many ways we are still attempting to understand.
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Simple, one component things, can sustain far higher frequencies
of energetic transmission than can complex components of things.
Frequencies which pass freely through atoms ultimately destroy complex
things such as humans when they are subject to them. It appears that
the more complex the union of the components, the slower and more
tediously complex the transformation of data must be. The more
complex a thing is, the lower the vibrational capability it sustains
in order to maintain the integrity of its own structure.
Energetic communication exists infinitely throughout the univ-
erse. The transference of information through radio waves and light
waves continues back in time to the occasion of what was known as the
Big Bang. It may be that in the future we will find that in the same
way gravity and electromagnetism are also continuums of information
from times long past. Scientifically we study these energetic con-
tinuums and yet we doubt and deny the holistic communicative nature of
the universe. We search for causes and effects within the realms of
our limited perceptions and are amazed when we can find no causal
effects to explain change.
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When we examine biological life, we find that each evolutionary
adaptation seems to be an extension of the process of self/non self
awareness and maintenance of integrity. Not only do we see inten-
sification of sensory perceptual abilities, but also we note that the
integrational and responsive/reactive components of the process also
have to evolve and adapt in order to stay integrated with the rest of
the "consciousness". Amoebas are "simple" life forms, and yet we can
examine them and see that each organic component within that life form
serves as an informational and communicative component within the
process of maintaining the integrity <life> of the whole. When this
communication process or any part of it ceases, the organization of
the organism begins to deteriorate and eventually ceases and dies. In
biological life, we find that though we have maintained the use of
electronic communication on some neural levels, we have sunk to the
depths of transferring actual molecular compounds <proteins, amino
acids...> in most of our organic processes. Even the human brain,
supposed highest achievement of organic life forms, requires base
molecular salts in order to process electrical information. Our
complexity denies us the speed of light, radio,
and other faster and higher frequency modes of communication except
from outside of ourselves.
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The human consciousness is a genius of discrimination. We use
the abilities of discrimination to identify those stimuli which come
from outside of our biological forms in order to protect and maintain
our integrity <life. We use our senses <inefficient though they may
be> to gather and interpret pure energetic communications such as the
radiated energy of sunlight and we are so inefficient at interpreting
that data that we can only sense light and heat and it destroys those
sensors that gather that information through blindness and sunburn if
we continue too long in our attempts. Yet,
conversely , we need the information from sunlight which stimulates
our organic forms into producing vitamin D <without which we would
die>. Is this a remnant of photosynthetic capabilities from lessor
complex integrations, or merely a new attempt at further increasing
our potential?
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As organic forms of consciousness, we are sorely limited in our
perceptions of the universe. Limited in exploring the possibly
limitless ranges of energetic exchange simply due to the limits placed
upon communication due to the complexity of our component structure.
Yet rather than admit to our limitations, we seek further exploration
through the development of tools made from things less complex than
ourselves. In the laboratory, we use light waves and shaped silicon
to create microscopes to increase our sense of visual acuity within
the spectrum of visible radiation imaging. In the studio, we use
simple cones flattened vegetable matter and electronic amplification
to create tools to compensate for our limited aural perception. We
have created many tools out of simpler and less complex components in
order to reach those higher frequencies of information which are
either so far removed from us as to be imperceptible, or so destruc-
tive to us that we dare not experience them ourselves.
The human zygote from the moment of conception is a discriminat-
ing consciousness which is involved in the differentialization of its
components in order to
develop finer levels of complexity. This fetus is also even before
birth learning to interpret communicative energies from the outer
world in order to begin definition of itself, its integrity and its
maintenance of self apart from the influence of "other". Cells,
joining together in communication to form co-operative systems each
with separate responsibilities to the whole. Organs with specific
functions supporting the organism in its fight to maintain its integ-
rity. Consciousness of Mind, determining the difference between self
and non self, regulating the integrity of the whole. This harmony of
components within a symphony of orchestration, this is the matter of
being alive.
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Despite our complexities, despite recognition of our vulnerabil-
ities and limitations; we as humans are beings of arrogant mind. We
claim supremacy over all biological organisms and claim the sole right
to conscious thought <as if we were the only from of communication we
wished to recognize.> We deny our insecurities and lay claims to
great understandings concerning the universe, when we in fact do not
even understand the actual workings of our own process of integration
and communication within our own biological forms.
We claim ownership of consciousness, yet we do not even pretend to
truly evaluate the process of consciousness nor its beginnings.
Despite our inadequacies, we assume to know the nature of the
beginnings of all life. We claim to know the "mind" of "God" <the
prime causation for all that exists> and we claim title to superiority
in emulation of this "God" - above and beyond all other forms of life
or integrity. An egotistic lot are we, who strive to seek security in
the midst of our fear, our inadequacies, our vulnerabilities; by
developing a system of belief which guarantees our security in a place
beyond our perception. We seek safety and foundation at the same time
that we reach outward to claim flight amongst the stars.
This is the paradox on humanity, of mind. Complexity found in
simplicity... using simplicity to explore a universe beyond the range
of our complex integrity. Our complex integrity vulnerable to all but
the simplest energies, while we lay grasp to use complex energies
which would destroy us in order to prove our strength. What it is we
look for, we eventually find at the expense of closing our senses to
see what really is. Perhaps it is true that the most foolish are
those who lay claim to knowledge for they have closed their minds
to further learning, and that the most wise are those who claim
knowledge of no thing, that they may learn all.
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Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 1 -- WHY MAGICK **
Theability tothink seems toset usapart fromother crea-
tures. And although we are concerned with living in the physical
world, we are mental beings. The fact is we are thinking all the time.
We plan, we brood, we get depressed or elated -- all of it is thought.
But the universe is mental too, and if we could control our thinking
we would see magnificent results in the everyday world.
Manysystems have been developedover the agesto help us
control our thoughts. A great amount of dogma too has been kicked
around in an attempt to make us into better people. Magick (the occult
kind, spelled with a 'k') is one of the oldest and most general of
these systems. Magick is the study and application of psychic forces.
It uses mental training, concentration, and a system of symbols to
program the mind. The purpose of magick is to alter the self and the
environment according to the will.
Mostofthe magickwesee todaycomesto usfromancient Egypt
and Chaldea. The Chinese, Hindus, and Tibetans developed their own
unique types of magick. Western magick was locked up by the Egyptian
priests for thousands of years and then supressed by the rise of
Christianity. It was not until medieval Europe that magical knowledge
was rediscovered by the alchemists and Cabalists. Only during the past
hundred years or so has western culture been open minded enough to
permit widespread investigation of the subject. Only since the start
of the twentieth century has science shown much interest in it al all.
PARAPSYCHOLOGY AND PSYCHIC PHENOMENA
Through parapsychology, weare gaining insightsinto the
hidden nature of man. Parapsychology is a branch of psychology which
studies psychic phenomena. It remains something of a frontier, even
today. Perhaps one reason for this is that psychic phenomena are
somewhat inconsistent.
Nevertheless, there is strong evidence from numerous cases and exp-
eriments in support of psychic phenomena. Somehow, under the right
conditions, the mind can directly affect the environment.
Wemaytheorize thatthehumanmind andbodybroadcasts akind
of psychic energy or force, much like a radio station. Kirlian photog-
raphy, temperature effects, cloud chamber tests, and other experiments
tend to support this theory. Although the exact nature of this psychic
force
is subtle and unknown, it is undoubtedly the energy behind all psychic
phenomena and magick. However, it is *not* a radio wave, since it
behaves somewhat differently. The psychic force is too weak to be
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measured directly (at least so far as we know). Everyone has some
psychic ability. There
are numerous types of psychic phenomena. Parapsychology separates them
into two groups: ESP and PK...
EXAMPLES OF ESP
ESP,theabreviation forextrasensoryperception, meansthe
reception of information through paranormal means (ie. not regular
physical senses of sight, sound, touch, smell, or taste). In theory,
this is accomplished by receiving psychic force from outside the body.
Here are some examples of ESP:
1)Clairvoyance,orRemote Viewing--the abilitytosense or
'see' (non-physically) distant objects, places, and people. Individ-
uals who see ghosts and spirits are probably clairvoyant.
2) Clairaudience, or remote hearing -- the 'hearing'
of paranormal information.
3)AstralProjection(OOBE)or TravelingClairvoyance--Full
experience at a remote location while the physical body sleeps.
4) Psychometry -- the reading of information by the
touch of physical objects.
5) Telepathicreceiver --the ability todirectly receive
thought (communication) at a distance, with no physical connection to
the sender. There are many everyday examples of this, in which we
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think something just as another person is about to say it. This is an
easy one to test for through experiment. Very dramatic cases of
telepathy have been recorded; there is often an emotional element in
such cases.
6) A 'channel'or medium, asin a seance,who is indirect
communication with a 'spirit' or entity.
7) Experiencewith a Ouija board,pendulum, or automatic
writing.
8) Precognition--to forseethefuture. Again,highlyemot-
ional events are the ones most likely to be 'tuned in'.
9) Retrocognition-- knowledgeof the past,by paranormal
means.
EXAMPLES OF PK
PK, the abreviation forpsychokinesis, is the active or
sending side of psychic phenomena. The theory here is that psychic
force is sent out from the individual. Examples of PK include:
1)Telepathicsender --thetransmitterin thetelepathyjust
discussed.
2)Psychokinesis (ortelekinesis) proper-- theability to
move objects by means of psychic force.
3)Somewhatalong thesamelinesarepoltergeist(noisyghost)
phenomena in which objects move of their own accord or noises are
1277
heard. There is always a human agent involved -- frequently a teenage
girl -- who appears to be the source of psychic energy.
4)Psychic healing-- theability toheal variousillnesses
and infirmities. There are many documented cases of this. Usually it
involves a healer and a subject, although there are recent cases
invloving cancer patients learning to heal themselves.
5)Teleportation, apportation,andlevitation. Someoccul-
tists feel a magician producing PK effects is simply a channel for
universal energy. Others think the force originates some way directly
within the magician.
THE SUBCONSCIOUS
Postulated byFreud andothers, theconcept of thesubcon-
scious mind is an important one. Basicly, this is the idea that part
of the mind normally operates below or outside of ordinary conscious-
ness and awareness. Dreams and hypnosis are examples of this. Also
subconscious are the many
automatic functions of the physical body such as respiration and
digestion.
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WHY DO MAGICK?
Magickencompassesmanythings-- scienceandart,philosophy
and metaphysics, psychology and comparative religion. Magick is an
adventure at the borderlands of the unknown. It can fit the pieces of
the puzzel of life into a meaningful whole.
*Magick is fun*and interesting. Usemagick to helpraise
consciousness without drugs. Gain new experiences. Fantacy can come
alive through magick. Psychic phenomena can be controlled and be fun
and helpful.
*Magick isbeneficial*. It canhelp you tohave excellent
health, and bring you good luck. With magick life runs smoothly; life
is good. Also use magick for personality improvement, to control bad
habits and to develop new motivations.
*Magickis
powerful*.Neverunderestimatethetremendouspower
of magick. Use magick to alter events and to achieve your goals. Exert
an influence over people and phenomena. But power for its own sake is
self defeating. The power which magick can give you should not be your
primary
reason for studying it.
MAGICK AND WITCHCRAFT
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A numberof other occult disciplinesare prevalent today
besides magick. There are many cults and sects which profess their own
views, but there are really few differences between them. One popular
area in the occult today is witchcraft. This is far removed from the
cliche of devil
worship. Real witchcraft is a nature religion (pagan). Witchcraft has
much in common with magick.
Alchemy alsohas muchin common withmagick. It'sheritage
comes from the middle ages. Alchemy fathered chemistry and the phys-
ical sciences. But the avowed purpose of alchemy, turning lead into
gold, is too limiting to be called magick. Sometimes the goal of
alchemy is interpreted in another way, as the transformation of man
into a spiritual being.
Thentherearethe numerousmodernday seersor'pychics', as
they like to be called, who operate within their own somewhat unique
systems. Although many of these people are deluded frauds, some are
very powerful occultists indeed.
1280
Of course,everything Ihavesaid hereis ageneralization.
Magick, witchcraft, alchemy, or any occult field are complex subjects.
Suffice it to say that magick includes them all (it is eclectic). For
magick is undoubtedly a philosophy which has, as the late Aleister
Crowley wrote,
"The method of science -- the aim of religion."
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) Define magick.
2) Define ESP and PK. Give examples.
3) What is the subconsicous?
BOOK LIST
Hal N. Banks, An Introduction to Psychic Studies.
Annie Besant, Thought Power.
Michael H. Brown, PK, A Report on the Power of Psychokinesis.
Richard Cavendish, The Black Arts.
Alexandira David-Neel, Magic and Mystery in Tibet.
Raynor C. Johnson, The Imprisoned Splendour.
Janet Lee Mitchell, "Is Anything Out There?", Fate magazine,
May 1988.
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Ostrander and Shroeder, Psychic Discoveries Behind the
Iron Curtan.
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
Tujunga, CA 91042
1282
Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 2 -- THE SUBJECTIVITY OF EXPERIENCE -- **
' The universe is a projection of ourselves;
an image as unreal as that of our faces in a
mirror....We cannot affirm any quality in an
object as being independent of our sensorium,
or as being in itself that which it seems to
us. Nor can we assume that what we cognize is
more than a partial phantom of its cause.'
( --Aleister Crowley, Magick, p. 110)
Yourawarenessofthe physicalworldand ofyourplace within
it is mostly based upon the physical senses(hearing, sight, smell,
touch, taste). These five senses continually send information to the
mind, and it is up to
the mind to select and interpret them. If you could not do so, your
senses would overwhelm you and be meaningless. Selection and inter-
pretation of your sensory inputs is essentially an automatic, mostly
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subconscious function of the mind. The program or map which the
subconscious follows
as its reference point is called a 'model'. The model is a subcon-
scious mental photograph of how you believe the world looks (ie.
worldview, mindset, egregore, or belief system). It was built up from
an early age by your religious and cultural background through inter-
action with family and
others. It contains your experiences, attitudes, and habits. And
whether you realize it or not, most of your behavior, thoughts,
feelings, and habits are based upon and conditioned by that model;
even personality. The model is one of the mind's master programs.
Change in behavior generally requires a change in the model. These
limitations built into our way of thinking cause our perceptions to be
subjective. That is why Hindu philosophy looks upon the world as
illusory (maya); the world itself (object) is not an illusion, however
from our viewpoint through perception
(subject) it is.
Thus weare allconditioned byexperience. Exceptthat our
perceptions, hence our experiences, are first conditioned and limited
by the model. Our perceptions and experiences tend to conform to what
we expect. We tend to misinterpret or ignore things which do not match
our
preconcieved notions about them. This is automatic.
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THE TRUE WILL
The forgoingdemonstrates how itis thatthere are somany
different versions of 'truth'. One's particular view is almost arbit-
rary. Although numerous religions, philosophies, and occult systems
abound, they do not contradict one and other as much as it might
appear. Rather, they describe the same (universal) reality taken from
different perspectives. For there can be no ultimate truth in the
physical world. We can only base our actions upon assumptions and
agreements. All experience is subjective. I like to think of the
universe as something indescribable, perhaps a 4-dimentional 'thing'.
As soon as we attempt to put it into our 3-dimentional knowledge-base,
something changes and we only see an aspect of the big picture. Just
as a photograph can only show us a flat *representation* of a greater
thing, so it is with any attempt to describe *spiritual reality* in
physical terms.
Yet,there isa separatereality withineach of uswhich is
often ignored unless we seek it. This inner self is in magick called
the 'true will'. The true will is the center of consciousness and
identity. It is the 'real you'. Everything else is an interface or
link to it from the outer (illusory) world. Since that interface is
based upon our model, it is conditoned and may sometimes produce false
information. 'Do what thou wilt' (Crowley) is an axiom of magick; for
1285
the true will expresses our exact desires. And what we truly want
('down deep') we tend to automatically
get. This isn't always in our best interests, since the true will can
be conditioned (tricked) by the illusion; and then we might desire and
obtain that which is not ultimately good for us. (Karma strikes
again!) The task of the magician therefor is to awaken his awareneess
of the true will, to be free of conditioning, and thereby to transcend
maya. ('My will unconditioned is magical' -- Spare).
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HAPPINESS IS BEING HAPPY
Thereis nogreatsecretto changingbehaviororhabits. Itis
largely a matter of determination. It equires that you ignore the
'pull' of the model when you strive for changes within yourself. The
model is, after
all, a collection of 'habits', some of which must be unlearned for
permananent change to occur. There are two ways to do this: direct,
through will power and awareness alone -- observing and acting out in
an unattached or indifferent manner; and indirect -- through con-
ditioning such as affirmation (explained later), self-hypnosis, and
magick. Meditation may help too, by relaxing tension and conflict.
Emotionsfollowphysical expression:smileandact happyand
you will tend to feel and be happy. The same is also true for other
emotions. Also, emotions can be purposely used (or programed) to
replace other emotions. Using this technique, a magician is somewhat
like an actor
in that he learns how to turn his emotions on and off at will. Note
that this is not 'fakeing it'; the magician is probably more in touch
with his true feelings than most people. And for these reasons we say
that happiness is being happy.
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SYSTEMS OF MAGICK
Magickalwaysinvolvesself-hypnosis.However, itmaybemore
than that. For one thing, there are objective forces involved (or so
it would seem). Deities, spirits, and cosmic force can have an indep-
endent existence. And the repetitive physical movement sometimes
involved in ritual can itself generate PK force. On the other hand, it
could be argued that all of this is subjective to the magician. Or
that the deities and spirits are nothing more than architypes or
cosmic patterns which the magician energizes with his own vitality.
Perhaps all magical effects could be produced through hypnosis alone.
But the effects are certainly real.
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Greatcomplexityisnotnecessaryinmagick.Although basicly
magick is a medieval system of symbolism (in a modern context), any
cosmological system will work from Cabala to Star Wars. We usually use
the medieval one in magick because it is convenient and traditional,
and
because it seems to fit our thought processes well. Traditional
symbols have greater emotional effect on the magician than modern ones
because of his familiarity with them. What really matters is that the
model of the magician be understood and programmed, and thus that the
model and the cosmological system do correspond.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) Contrast subjective with objective.
2) What is a 'model'?
3) Explain the task of the magician.
BOOK LIST
Eric Berne, Games People Play.
Fritjof Capra, The Tao of Physics.
Carlos Castaneda, The Fire From Within.
Arthur Koestler, The Roots of Coincidence.
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John C. Lilly, The Center of the Cyclone.
------, Programming and Metaprogramming in the Human Biocomputer.
------, Simulations of God -- The Science of Belief.
Alan Watts, The Book (on the taboo against knowing who you are).
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
Tujunga, CA 91042
1290
Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 3 -- THE FOUR WORLDS **
Theancientsdescribed manasmind, body,andsoul. Psychol-
ogists of the twentieth century added the subconscious to that def-
finition. This produces a four-fold classification. The universe is
also divided into four corresponding parts ('worlds'), as shown below:
WORLD BODY QUALITY
===== ==== =======
spiritual world spiritual body (soul or kia) intuition
mental world mental body (conscious mind) rationalthought
astral world astral body (subconscious) emotions
physical world physical body physical senses
Theastral body(subconscious)is theintermediary forint-
uition, magical and psychic phenomena, and is the 'psychic link' to
the physical world. J.H. Brennan says that the astral is the realm of
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visual imagination. It seems to be both a 'place' and a 'state of
mind' at the
same time. Most occult and magical phenomena originate in the invis-
ible, non-sensate, non-physical realm (ie. without physical senses).
Each of the four worlds interacts with the other worlds. Psychic
energy flows from the spiritual to mental to astral to physical. The
physical world is a projection (manifestation, reflection, or shadow)
of the higher worlds. Our center of consciousness is generally within
these higher worlds. "We are", to quote the rock music group the
Police, "spirits in the material world".
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Therearemanysimilar termsusedby otheroccultgroups. For
example, 'astral light' is another name for astral world, although it
may sometimes also refer to the entire non-physical realm, as may
'inner planes' or 'the invisible world'. Planes are essentially the
same as worlds. Vehicles or sheaths are the same as bodies. Some
groups include an etheric or vital body between physical and astral:
it is mostly 'physical' with a little of the lower 'astral' besides.
And sometimes astral and mental are each divided into two parts (upper
and lower). The 'causal body' is the upper 'mental'.
MICROCOSM AND MACROCOSM
Wehavebeendescribing'traditonal'occultphilosophy here,
and certainly an important part of the tradition is the idea (and
terms) microcosm and macrocosm. The greater universe, known as the
*macrocosm*, includes everything that exists. It corresponds with the
*microcosm*,
or tiny universe, ie. man -- who is thought of as a miniature replica
of the macrocosm (whole universe). This basic magical relationship is
demonstrated in the Bible (Genesis 1.27), where God is the macrocosm;
and in the writing of Trismegistus ("As above so below"). Since man
is in the image of God (universe) it follows that God is in the image
of man (in other words, man and the God/universe match each other).
1293
The magician, as a microcosm is thus connected with the macrocosm.
There is an intimate relationship of energies between you and every-
thing else. The universe is reflected within us and we are projected
into the universe. This is an important theory behind magick and
astrology.
MAGICK WHITE AND BLACK
'Personalmagick' is thatmagick used toaffect the self;
often involving affirmation, self-suggestion, and self-hypnosis.
'Active magick' is outer directed magick (as in PK) used to affect
someone or thing, or to bring about an event. 'Passive magick' is to
be affected (as in ESP)
by an outside non-physical cause. Everyone possesses some magical (and
psychic) potential. Some are especially gifted. Usually people are
better at one kind of magick (ie. active or passive) than they are at
the other kind; only rarely does an individual excell at both. Traning
and practice will, of course, improve ability somewhat.
1294
Although the forces of magick are neutral, various systems may
take on the qualities of good and evil. There is so-called white
magick or good magick, black magick or evil magick, and gray magick
between them. When many people refer to white magick they mean magick
for unselfish purposes, also healing and mental influence with spec-
ific permission. By black magick they refer to magick for self-inter-
est and healing *without* specific permission. Using magick to
forcefully control another's will is, in a sense, black magick too.
There are also some people on the occult fringe who claim to be,
possibly even think they are, 'Satanists', devil worshipers, or black
magicians. These people are most likely charlatans, hoaxters, dab-
blers, or merely misinformed. They may be attracted by the 'art' of
black magick, or even by the 'glamor' of doing something
against the 'rules'. But a real black magician is very dangerous.
Because he has dedicated his life to evil. We usually think of 'white
magick' as having *unselfish intent*, and (in the extreme case) of
'black magick' as
being actual Satan worship, human or animal sacrifice, dangerous
unconventional magical practices, and other bizarre stuff as makes a
nightmare. It is all a matter of degree. Most mild self-interest
magick (one of the most common kinds) would be called 'gray'. Better
terms may be
*constructive magick* as being beneficial; and *aversive magick* as
magick intended to work against the natural order, and to tear down.
1295
There is also the *high magick* of spiritual alchemy (ie. spiritual
growth), also known as 'the Great Work'; and conversely there is 'low
magick' which is concerned with materiality.
Any magickactislikelyto producesideeffectsregardlessof
whether or not the desired result is achieved. Such side effects are
no problem for constructive magick, since they are benificial as well.
However, aversive magick can produce aversive side effects which may
even harm the magician -- aversive magick is dangerous!
1296
MAGICK IS A CONTINUOUS PROCESS
Whatwe havebeencalling 'magick'is actuallya continuous
process. Since your subconscious never rests, your environment is
continually being shifted into line with your model. This is true
whether you study magick or not. For most people, these effects are
usually very subtle, and they are probably not aware of them. However,
as you work
with the occult, the flow of psychic energy and your awareness of it
increases. Your true will is more likely to be strongly expressed.
Your luck may be affected (either in a positive or a negative way).
Remember, our lives tend to follow what we want down deep. That is why
a positive
outlook is so very beneficial to us.
THE MAGICAL DIARY
Sometimes it ishelpful to keep a diary of your magical
experiments and research. Such a diary should include the date,
perhaps even some astrological data (or anything else you think may
have a relationship to what you are doing). This is also a good time
1297
to begin recording your dreams -- at least the important ones -- in a
dream diary. Your dreams
can tell you a great deal about yourself, and may sometimes reveal
premonitions. Dreams are personal. Don't fall for the commercial
'dream book' gimmick.
AFFIRMATIONS
Themind is always open to suggestion -- especially the
subconscious. Most of the time we censor any suggestions according to
the model; but one way to break through the censor is with repetition.
An affirmation does this exactly. By suggestion, we mean any statement
which is capable of affecting your model. Usually suggestion is in the
form of a positive statement (such as the hypnotist's patter -- " You
are becomming sleepy"). An affirmation is the same kind of thing -- a
positive suggestion, which you repeat (affirm) to yourself aloud or
silently (for example, "I remember my dreams"). If there is some
quality you wish to change or develope within yourself, an affirmation
is ideal. Repeat it several times every day at several different times
throughout the day,
expecially when you go to bed. Affirmations are subtle and may require
a few months to work. Use them for changes, not miracles.
SIMPLE BANISHING TECHNIQUE
1298
Visualizationisanotherimportantmethod weusetoinfluence
the subconscious. A good example of this is the simple banishing
technique which follows. Banishing is used in magick to 'clear the
air' of negative 'vibes' and interference...
Visualize astrong white lightflowing outthe top ofyour
head, flowing down around you and covering you. At the same time
imagine you are throwing away any 'problem' vibes. Maintain the
visualization for a half a minute or longer. Good way to help you
handle your emotions, and to control worry or anger.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) What is a microcosm?
2) List the four worlds. Explain.
3) What is an affirmation? Give an example.
BOOK LIST
Geoffry Hodson, Theosophy Answers Some Problems of Life.
Marc Edmund Jones, Key Truths of Occult Philosophy.
Marion Weinstein, Positive Magic.
Nelson & Ann White, The Wizard's Apprentice.
Beatrice Bruteau, The Psychic Grid.
1299
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
Tujunga, CA 91042
1300
Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 4 -- ELEMENTS AND FORCES **
The Ancientsdividedthe worldintofour basicprinciplesor
*elements* -- earth, water, fire, and air. That viewpoint has mostly
changed with advances of science, but the four elements are still
accepted in magick, for they are more closely linked with emotions,
the human psyche, and with nature than are modern explanations of the
world. These
*magical elements* are also of some importance in astrology. Many
occultists think of the magical elements as forces, or as *qualities*
of energy; especially within the astral world. Each element has a
symbol and color. (Common symbols are -- fire: a triangle pointing up;
air: a triangle pointing up and with a horizontal line through the
middle of it; water: a triangle pointing down; earth: a triangle
pointing down and with a horizontal line through the middle of it.)
Colors of the elements are -- earth: brown and green; water: blue;
fire: red; air: yellow...The Eastern tattvic system uses different
1301
symbols and colors. (The tattvic symbols are briefly described later
on in this course.) The elements are often used in magick ritual.
Magickseesrelationships
betweenthings.Theserelationships
are called 'correspondences'. Although magical correspondences are not
literally equal to one another, you can think of them that way (such
as gold equals sun). Tables of these relationships, called 'Corres-
pondence Tables', are available (an important one is Crowley's '777').
Thus one thing or symbol can be used to suggest another. This is
important in
magick, for the magician may surround himself with as many appropriate
correspondences as he can to vividly affect the senses; thus making
his magical contact with the inner planes more lucid.
1302
Themagicalelementshavecorrespondenceswiththetarotcards
as the four suits. The four quarters (directions of the universe as
used in magick ritual) and the Archangels also correspond with these
same elements --
Element Suit Quarter Archangel
======= ==== ======= =========
earth pentacles north Uriel
water cups west Gabriel
fire wands south Michael
air swords east Raphael
Astrologicalsignsalsocorrespondwiththeelements.Taurus,
Virgo, and Capricorn are earth signs. Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces are
water signs. Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are fire signs. Gemini, Libra,
and Aquarius are air signs.
ELEMENTALS
The magicalelements are saidto bepeopled by spiritsand
mythological entities called elementals or nature spirits. These are
grouped into four main categories --
1303
Gnome (earth) Undine (water) Salamander (fire) Sylph (air)
============= ============== ================= ===========
dwarfs nymphs jin (genies) fairies
elves tritons storm angels
brownies mermaids
hobgoblins mermen
lepricauns sirens
harpies
Elementalsareusuallyonlyvisible tothosewithclairvoyant
sight and are more likely to be seen at night in the mountains or
country away from cities -- especially if you are tired or sleepy.
Although elementals exist naturally, it is also possible to create one
which will exist for a limited time -- no elemental has immortality. A
created elemental is called
an 'artificial elemental'.
1304
TotheAncients, elementalswerethephysical explanationof
the universe. However, some contemporary occultists see them only as
symbols for forces and otherwise not 'real' at all. Another word
sometimes used for elemental is 'familiar' (usually in medieval
witchcraft); the term is ambiguous, as it might merely be an ordinary
household pet such as a dog or cat.
YIN YANG
Chinesephilosophyandacupuncture talkofyin yang.This is
the idea of polarity, or opposite pairs, as shown --
YIN YANG
=== ====
water fire
contraction expansion
cold hot
feminine masculine
moon sun
negative positive
passive active
ebb flow
1305
wane wax
The list could go on. In Chinese literature it is quite long. Some
occultists suggest everything can be similarly arranged into related
opposite pairs.
1306
SIMPLE MAGICK
Hereis asimple magicaltechniqueyou maywish totry. Itis
a variation of affirmation, which was discussed in an earlier les-
son...To help you to achieve your goal (magical or otherwise), find a
word or short phase which sums up what it is that you want to accom-
plish. Write the word (or phrase) down 10 times each day until you
achieve success.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) List the four elements.
2) What is an elemental?
3) What are correspondences?
BOOK LIST
William Britten, Art Magic (long out of print, but in some
libraries).
Pete Carrol, Liber Null.
Wing-Tsit Chan, A Source Book in Chinese Philosophy.
Manly Hall, Unseen Forces.
1307
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
Tujunga, CA 91042
1308
Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 5 -- CHAKRAS AND MEDITATION **
AccordingtoEastIndianphilosophy,manpossessessevenmajor
*chakras* or psychic centers on his body. Each of these forms a
bridge, link, or energy transformer; changing pure (higher) energy
into various forms, and connecting the four bodies (ie. spiritual,
mental, astral, and physical) together. The chakras are located along
the nadies (a network of psychic nerves or channels) and follow the
autonomic nervous system along the spinal cord. Chakras correlate
with major acupuncture points along the 'governing vessel meridian'
(acupuncture term). The seven major chakras are connected together by
three major nadies which are parallel and near each other. The middle
nadi is called *sushumna* and it has neutral characteristics. The nadi
on the left (ie. nearest your left hand) is the *ida* nadi which has
yin characteristics. On the other side of sushumna
(nearest your right hand) is the *pingala* nadi, having yang qualit-
ies.
1309
Chakrasarevisible toclairvoyantsightas varouslycolored
rotating circles or funnels. In the East they are described as petaled
flowers or lotuses. Sources disagree on the colors.
The first chakra,located at thebase of the spineat the
perineum is the *root chakra*, muladhara. It primarily relates to the
element of earth and to psychic smell.
Thesecondchakra,knownasthe*sacralcenter*,svadhisthana,
is located above and behind the genitals. Its dominant element is
water, and it is related to psychic taste.
Thirdof thechakrasisthe*solar plexus*,manipura,located
at the navel and corresponding with the emotions and with the element
of fire; also with psychic sight (clairvoyance).
The*heart chakra*,anahata, isthe fourthchakra, located
over the heart and corresponding with the element of air, and also
with psychic touch.
Thefifthchakraisthe*throat chakra*,vishuddha,locatedat
the base of the throat (thyroid) and corresponding with psychic
hearing (clairaudience).
1310
The remainingtwo chakrasare very important.They relate
mostly to elevated states of consciousness. The *frontal chakra*, (or
'third eye') ajna, the sixth chakra, is located between, and slightly
above, the eyebrows. Ajna is the center of psychic powers and can
produce many psychic effects. Meditation on ajna is said to cure
nervousness.
Finally,the*crownchakra*,sahasrara,locatedatopthehead,
(pineal gland) is the seventh chakra. It is referred to as the thous-
and-petaled lotus and corresponds with astral projection and enlight-
enment.
Thereare alsomany minorchakras throughoutthebody. Each
chakra has a sound (letter) and a pitch which is sometimes used to
invoke it.
THE TATTVAS
Someoccultists preferto describethe magicalelements as
tattvas according to the Eastern system. Notice that these symbols and
1311
colors are generally different than the western symbols and colors for
the elements.
element tattva tattvic symbol
======= ====== ==============
earth prithivi yellow square
water apas silver crescent
fire tejas red triangle
air vayu blue circle
(spirit) akasa black oval
1312
YOGA
Yoga originated inIndia. It is aphysical or mentaldis-
cipline designed to condition and invigorate the mind and body. There
are many kinds of yoga, but they may be generally divided into three
main types...
Hathayoga--affect themindthrough thebodyusing physical
exercises; improve physical health and endurance.
Rajayoga-- affectthemindthrough mentaltraining;improve
concentration.
Mantrayoga --affect themind throughchanting andaffirm-
ation; achieve relaxation.
MEDITATION
This is a much touted areaof the occult. There aremany
meditation techniques, and many claims made for the benefits of
meditation. Basicly, meditation has two functions -- relaxation, and
perhaps, improved concentration. There are two main types...
1) concentration meditation (focusing),
2) insight meditation (mindfullness).
1313
Most kinds of meditation are the concentrative type. One simply
focuses his attention upon a single physical object (such as a candle
flame); upon a sensation (such as that felt while walking or breath-
ing); upon an emotion (such as reverence or love); upon a mantra
spoken aloud or even silently; or upon a visualization (as in chakra
meditation, seebelow)...Concentration meditation is, simply put, a
form of self-hypnosis.
Amantra(or mantrum)is oneormore wordsorsyllables which
are repeated -- often chanted -- aloud...A simple yet powerful mantra
is to vibrate the mystical word 'OM'. This mantra has long been
associated in India with the godhead/unity. Use it to aid in tuning
into universal vibrations which promote feelings of harmony, peace,
and well-being. Use it before magick ritual to 'get into the mood' and
afterward to 'dismiss the
forces'. You vibrate a mantra by saying it slowly aloud in a lower--
pitched voice than your normal speech, and a more or less constant
pitch as well. Let the sound fade at the end of the mantra. A powerful
one such as 'OM' will seem to vibrate the air around you. It should be
vocalized for 5-10 seconds and repeated a number of times with a few
seconds rest between each vocalization. Chanting of mantras may cause
slight dizziness from hyperventilation.
1314
Theothermaintype ofmeditaiton-- insightmeditation-- is
the analysis of thoughts and feelings in such a way as to cause
realization of the subjectivity and illusion of experience. This is
done in a effort to attain trancendental awareness. Such statements
as, 'This body is not me', fall under this category. Buddhist medit-
ations are usually of this type.
CHAKRA MEDITATION
Thereis aspecialtype ofconcentrativemeditation whichwe
will call 'Chakra meditation'. This is basicly Kundalini yoga -- the
practice of causing psychic energy (kundalini) to flow up sushumna,
energizing the various chakras along the way. The practice, considered
dangerous by
some, will produce deffinite physiological sensations and psycholog-
ical effects if continued long enough. It should not be attempted by
epileptics or persons with an unstable mental or physical condition,
or with heart disease. Certain drugs and medications, such as those
used to treat epilepsy may retard progress. Although the technique is
very simple, it may eventually produce powerful results. Results may
at first appear hours after the practice during sleep. As each chakra
is energized by this practice, it is said to add occult powers (si-
dhis), until at last the crown chakra is reached, and with it, full
enlightenment is attained. Sometimes kundalini awakens all by itself.
1315
Topracticethischakrameditation, yousimplyconcentrateon
the chakras, beginning with the root chakra, and moving progressively
up, as you visualize psychic energy from the root chakra traveling up
shushumna and vivifying each higher chakra. As we mentioned the
chakras have certain properties associated with them, so that this
type of visualization may
'raise consciousness', promote astral projection, and other things --
once you have reached ajna and eventually the crown chakra. You might
typically meditate in this fashion for 15 minutes to a half hour a
day. It might help to practice some hatha yoga or other physical
exercise in an effort to make the spinal cord 'more flexible'. Diet
may also affect the process. The technique is also similar to the
Tibetan 'Tummo' meditation. The rise of kundalini is sometimes
experienced as a 'vibration' or buzzing, as light, or as heat.
1316
HEALTH AND DIET
Certainly theway you treatyour physicalbody willaffect
your mind. In magick you want an alert mind. Therefore, your body must
be as healthy as you can keep it. Take care of your body. Exercise
regularly. eat a good diet (with vitamin supplements), and do not
consume anything which will have a negative effect upon the mind.
Drugs, smoking,, and alcohol
should be restricted, or eliminated. (The mind can create any condit-
ion which a drug can create.) A good rule here is moderation in what
and how much you consume. (Most of this stuff is pretty obvious isn't
it.) You may also want to cut down on sugar and processed foods. Many
occultists advise dietary changes, expecially the non-eating of meat.
We cannot deny the
physical, psychological, and spiritual effect which all foods have.
This effect may be described as the 'heaviness' factor of foods.
Various foods are so ranked in the chart, lighter to heavier...
1. lettuce and other greens.
2. fruits and most vegetables.
3. wheat, rice, and other grains.
4. nuts, beans, and other legumes.
5. cheese, dairy products, including eggs.
1317
6. fish, seafood.
7. chicken, poultry.
8. beef, pork, other red meats.
Note that meats, especially red meats are the 'heaviest' foods.
Generally, foods which are harder to digest, or which are higher in
protein are 'heavier' than those which are not. Animal products are
heavier than plants. Foods high in carbohydrate (candy, bread, starch)
are heavy. However, the 'heaviness' of foods is not directly related
to the amount of calories.
1318
Whatthismeansis thatforvarious reasons,theheaviness of
food in your diet will affect your magical experiences. You may be
able to increase your psychic receptivity ('energy level') by eating
lighter foods, or by eating less. Conversely, emphasizing heavy foods
in your diet, or eating larger helpings, may help to 'bring you down
to earth' should you 'rent the veil' too much. These are generalizat-
ions, of course, and it may take a number of days of dietary change
before you notice much effect. I do not advocate radical dietary
changes, excessive fasting, or malnutrition. Your good health is far
more important in magick than any temporary effect you get from
prolonged starvation. A change in diet will sometimes only
produce a temporary effect, until the physical body adapts to the
change. Healthy natural foods and lifestyle make it easier for us to
be healthy, but ultimately, good health is a mentual quality (at-
titude).
THE FOUR-FOLD BREATH
With physicalexercise too, moderation isadvised. (You
should be cautious, or not attempt it if you have a respiratory or
heart condition. Check with your physician if in doubt, and don't
overdo.) One of the most useful physical exercises is pranayama, or
controlled breathing (actually a type of hatha yoga exercise). For
1319
this and any other calesthentics or hatha yoga which you might choose
to do a 'kitchen timer' is suggested (many of these aren't accurate
for under three minutes, but are helpful for longer periods).
1320
Themain purposeofpranayama isto relaxthe bodyand mind.
There are many kinds of pranayama, but a simple one called the 'four--
fold breath' will suffice. This consists of four short quick inhall-
ations, then four short quick exhallations; then repeat, continuing
until the allotted time is used up. It will take about 1 1/2 seconds
for the four inhallations, and about 1 1/2 seconds for the four
exhallations; or about 3 seconds for the complete in-out cycle ('rep'
for repetition). There should be no strain of any kind during your
pranayama. You will probably notice a slight dizziness, particularly
at first, since the effect of pranayama is to hyperventilate. Try
sitting back in a chair with your eyes closed when you do your prana-
yama. Begin a minute a day for the first week and gradually increase
up to about five minutes a day. If you do the pranayama befor
your magical activity, it will help you to get 'into the mood'. It is
also an excellent aid to relaxation and tension release. Pranayama
should not be done during heavy air pollution. Other exercises you
might consider are hatha yoga, calesthentics, walking or jogging.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) What is a chakra? List them.
2) Name the three major nadies. Which nadi is hot?
3) What is pranayama?
1321
BOOK LIST
Arthur Diekman, The Observing Self.
W.Y. Evans-Wentz, Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines.
Sandra Gibson, Beyond the Mind.
King and Skinner, Techniques of High Magic.
Swami Sivananda, Kundalini Yoga.
John Woodroffe (pseud. for Arthur Avalon), The Serpent Power.
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
Tujunga, CA 91042
1322
Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 6 -- THOUGHTFORMS AND SPIRITS **
Although there are hundredsof kinds of divination, the
principle ones are astrology, geomancy, the tarot, the I Ching, and
direct psychic means (especially clairvoyance). True divination is
more than a mechanical system, for it implies true psychic interp-
retation (receiving). Some form of divination is often used in magick
ritual to communicate with
the entity invoked.
Sincedivination operatesthroughthemind,itisaffectedand
biased by the mind. Our attitudes and fears may alter it. Sometimes
results are very detailed, and accurate -- but not always. Often the
future is plastic and changeable anyway, and the use of magick may
alter the result. Thus divination shows tendencies only, which may be
helpful, but must not rule us.
DEVELOPING CLAIRVOYANCE
1323
It ispossible toimprove yournatural abilitywith clair-
voyance through practice. A good start might be to look around you,
then close your eyes and try to picture your surroundings. This is
also good exercise for visualization. And visualization is an essen-
tial talent in magick. Open your eyes again and check your accuracy.
Then close your eyes and try it
again. When you use your physical eyes, look at everything like a
child seeing it for the first time. Let the vividness of color and
form burn into you, until everything takes on a veritable glow. Try to
capture that glow when you close your eyes now and picture your
surroundings. It's just a simple step to extend what you see with your
eyes closed into what you remember seeing in the next room, or what
you *imagine* seeing in the next building, the next city, even the
other side of the world. Don't expect perfect results, especially at
first. Just try to be even partly right. Another exercise is to
picture a clock face, and thereby tell the time
clairvoyantly.
1324
THE AURA
Underthe rightconditions,it ispossible toclairvoyantly
observe a colored light around other people. This is known as the
'aura'. Sometimes the aura is seen as multi-colored emanations around
the person, built up of various differently colored layers and zones.
Although many
occult dabblers claim to be able to see the aura easily and under many
varied conditions, I seriously doubt that they do. There are optical
illusions and qualities of sight which can sometimes trick one into
thinking he sees what he does not see. In this area, the quality of
sight known as after image is especially pertinent. Do this: stare at
any solidly colored bright object for a few moments. Very intense red,
green, or blue are especially good for this. Now look away at a white
surface and you will see a phantom image of the object in its comp-
lementary color (a red object will show green, a blue one orange,
etc.). If the bright object is in front of a light surface, you may
observe a fringe of complementary color
around the object after a few moments. This is all very normal, and is
used by some magical groups as an aid to visualization sometimes
called 'flashing colors'. Some silly people will stare at other people
in the same way. And when they see the after image of the person's
clothing, they think they are seeing his aura. What is more, various
1325
meanings have been attributed to the colors of the aura. A psychic who
can see the aura is supposed to be able to determine that persons
emotional state. Thus psychic frauds can have a marvelous time with
auras. One deluded psychic taught a class I attended in which he
performed instant psychoanalysis on the
basis of the supposed aura. It was obvious that he was actually
observing after images from the students clothes!
Thisbrings usto thechart ofaura colorson thenext page.
It is a general guide, based mostly on Theosophical material. Various
groups may attribute different meanings to the colors. The colors we
show on the chart are emotional in nature; useful if you plan to
create an artificial elemental or do healing. Surrounding yourself
with a particular color will tend to produce the specific psycho-
logical effect described in the chart. That quality of color is
useful in magick ritual.
1326
COLORS OF THE AURA
BLACK malice
dark gray depression
pale gray fear
BROWN materialism
muddy gray selfishness
or
dull rust
RED energy
bright red anger and force
dirty red passion and sensuality
dull red selfish love
rose unselfish love
ORANGE pride
orange cloud irritability
bright orange noble indignation
YELLOW intellect
yellow-green low intellect
earthy yellow selfish thought
1327
lemmon high intellect
bright gold logical thinking
brt. red-yel. spiritual thought
GREEN empathy
gray-green deceit, jealously
greenish-brown jealousy
emerald green unselfish resourcefulness
foliage green sympathy & empathy
brt. apple-grn strong vitality
brt. turquoise deep sympathy & compassion
BLUE devotion (religious feeling)
gray-blue fetishism
light blue noble spiritual devotion
dark blue religious feeling
brt. lilac-blu lofty religious idealism
VIOLET spiritual psychic & spiritual
faculty
WHITE purity/protection
1328
THOUGHTFORMS AND SPIRITS
Whenever we concentrate our thoughts, we draw psychic energy
together. This is called a thoughtform. Usually the energy dis-
sipates as soon as we break the concentration, but it is possible to
purposely concentrate energy in this way, producing very strong
thoughtforms. Such thoughtforms are
vortexes or centers of psychic energy. They can exist as entities by
themselves, at least for a while. They are basically inanimate,
non-thinking forces. Talking to one is about as logical as talking to
a chair. In this way, thoughtforms are similar to elementals, ghosts,
and spirits. All of these psychic entities consist of a psychic
energy vortex which could be described as a localized field or as a
discontinuity of the physical world.
Psychic entities respond to certain electrostatic and magnetic
fields, and to other energy vortexes. That is why they respond to
magick ritual. Someday, we may accomplish the same thing with elect-
ronic machines. Psychic entities are sometimes able to affect our
thought processes.
Thoughtforms, elementals, and ghosts are usually not very smart.
If they display any intelligence at all, it is limited. They are the
morons of the spirit world. Their behavior is usually automatic,
1329
repetitive, robot-like (just like some people). We see that artif-
icial elementals
are little more than astral robots. Spirits and deities are more
intelligent and volitional.
DIRECTED ATTENTION
Your mind follows your attention. Wherever you direct your
attention, there will your thoughts go too. By directing attention to
a specific place or purpose you *focus* mental energy upon it.
For example: you're having lunch in a cafeteria crowded with
people. It is a large place, and everyone there is talking at once, so
that the room is a constant jumble of noise. You happen to notice a
man accross the room; he reminds you of someone. All at once he drops
his fork and you hear it hit the table. But would you have noticed the
sound of his fork if you had not been looking? No. Only by focusing
your attention there were you able to pick out that individual event
and associated sound.
1330
It is a dark night. You are walking and the only light you have
is from the flashlight you hold in your hand. As you move the flash-
light around, the beam of light from it directs your attention first
one way then another. Now, the mind is something like that flashlight
in the dark. And by directed attention, you point the mind to one
place or another. As with that flashlight beam, you see where the mind
is pointed; nothing more. The rest is 'noise'. And so we could define
mental noise as anything not focused upon. In another way, noise could
be considered as negative emotions, attitudes, and thoughts which make
it more difficult to direct the attention.
Your emotions follow your thoughts quite easily. Your emotions
are not YOU, but are rather reactions prompted by your model and ego
-- like a performance or an act, while the real you watches. In a
similar way, directing your attention toward a specific emotion will
cause you to
experience that emotion.
VISUALIZATION EXERCISES
Visualimagination andconcentration areveryimportant in
magick. Here are some exercises to help in your development...
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A. Close youreyes and visualize asingle digit numberas
clearly as you can. Then a two digit number, then a 3 digit one. Hold
the visualization in front of your 'inner eye' for about two minutes.
Repeat with a letter or a word.
B.Visualize abrightlycolored greencircle orspot. Again
hold the visualization for two minutes. Try again with a different
color.
C.Visualizein succession,eachone ofthetattvic symbols,
in their proper color. Hold each symbol for at least two minutes.
D.Look through atarrot card deckand pickout several of
your favorite cards. Then, after briefly studying a card, visualize it
vividly in detail. Hold the visualization for at least two minutes. Do
this for each card you selected.
E. Repeat the above visualization exercises with
your eyes open.
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REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) What is the aura?
2) What is a thoughtform?
3) How can you develope clairvoyance?
BOOK LIST
Annie Bessant and Charles Leadbeater, Thought Forms.
W.E. Butler, How to Develop Clairvoyance.
J.H. Brennan, Astral Doorways.
Piero Ferrucci, What We May Be.
Kilner, The Human Aura.
Swami Panchadasi, The Human Aura.
A.E. Powell, The Etheric Double.
Harold Sherman, How to Make ESP Work for You.
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
1333
Copyright (c) 1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is
is licenced for free non-commercial distribution only.
----------------------------------------------------------
** MAGICK 7 -- BASIC RITUAL **
'The first part of every ceremony is the
banishing; the second the invoking.'
(--Crowley, Magick, p. 104)
Itmay besaid that ritualis thevery heartof magick. For
it is through ritual that we achieve our magical results. Ritual is a
magical procedure or ceremony we perform in order to change the
environment. Usually we think of ritual as bearing on active magick,
although certainly, it can also affect passive magick. Most often the
change achieved is subjective (it may be subtle) and in the physical
world. Outsiders may put them down to coincidence, but the effects are
very real. Magical goals for a ritual should not be taken lightly.
Thesuccessfulpracticeofmagick dependsuponstrongbelief.
The simplest ritual of them all must be belief itself. If you can
believe in your desired results strongly enough, that act is a magical
ritual which will achieve your results. Even a very complex ritual is
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no more effective than strong belief. There are aids to concentration
which may help. Thus in *creative visualization*, imagination and
controlled breathing are brought into play.
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CREATIVE VISUALIZATION
Whenyouwanttomagicallyachievesomething,first pictureit
clearly in your mind. The more deffinite and specific your idea of
what it is the better. Picture yourself having it or doing it. Vis-
ualize it as vividly and as intensely as you can and hold it in your
thoughts for a few
moments. Concentrate on it intensely (it may help to hold your breath-
). Feel the energy of desire welling up inside you. Then suddenly feel
the image or desire released from your mind. Feel the energy filtering
through the image and intensifying it, as if the image is a 'stencil'.
Imagine the
energy exploding out from you into the macrocosm in all directions at
once, and feel the universe 'tilt' as it reacts to the force. (At the
same time it may help to release your breath suddenly). Feel the
energy draining from you. Finally, *believe* that your purpose *has*
been accomplished; that it
HAS HAPPENED, perhaps saying something such as "so mote it be", or "it
is done".
THE BASIC PARTS OF A RITUAL
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Often ritualsare more formalthan theabove, but anyfull
magick ritual must always reduce to these stages -- 1) imaging; 2)
building; 3) firing. Sometimes a ritual must be repeated every day
for a while to achieve difficult results or to overcome weak belief.
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THE MAGICK CIRCLE
Often animportantpartofformal ritualisthemagickcircle.
Medieval magicians considered the circle essential, and placed great
emphasis upon its exactness. Elaborate designs were invented with
many layers of complex symbols and words. It was very important that
the circle
be completely intact with no breaks in it. The magician and any other
participants stand in the circle during ritual. The ritual began with
a banishing of evil forces (using the lesser ritual of the pentagram
for example) to keep them outside the circle. Today, circles are made
on the floor with chalk or paint, rock salt, or a rope. Whatever its
form, the circle is still an important part of magical protection for
the magician. This is especially important for aversive entities and
purposes. The circle also helps in focusing the energy of the ritual
toward its purpose, that is, it keeps it contained until the magician
is ready to release it. Of course, the magick circle is basicly only a
symbol, but it may eventually be possible to supplement the circle
with electronic equipment for a
similar purpose. We are researching the practicality of electro-
staticly charged Faraday shields.
ARTIFICIAL ELEMENTALS
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An artificial elemental isuseful for certain tasks: 1)
invisible watcher and observer, telling you what it sees; 2) psychic
guard; 3) it can be used in healing; 4) it is helpful in other ways.
Ophiel calls the artificial elemental a 'familiar'. Producing your own
artificial elemental is fairly easy. YOU MUST ASSUME THAT THE ACT HAS
PRODUCED RESULTS, EVEN IF YOU DO NOT IMMEDIATELY OBSERVE THEM. It is
entirely possible to produce one of these little beasties and not know
it (not being clairvoyant enough to
observe it directly). Therefore, and this is a general principle of
any magick, never ignore forces you have set into motion. Even though
you may not see the elemental, you may nevertheless 'feel' it.
WARNING-- Donot useartificial elementalsfor anykind of
aversive magick at this point; they can be nasty little critters to
get rid of. Should you have to eliminate one of them which you created
in error, you must re-absorb it back into yourself through your will;
or in some cases you can 'exorcise' it.
HOW TO CREATE AN ARTIFICIAL ELEMENTAL
You cancreate your own artificialelemental for various
purposes. An artificial elemental is basically a thoughtform which has
been strengthened with emotion. Refer to the aura color chart in the
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previous lesson and decide what color to make the elemental, based
upon your intended purpose. Apple green is a good choice for general
purposes.
Then decide on a shape or outline. Do you want your elemental to
resemble some sort of animal? A simple circle or cloud is a good place
to start. With this in mind you can use ritual to create your elemen-
tal. Creative visualization is good for this. Visualize it glowing
before you. A darkened room is helpful for this.
Communicatewithyourelementalwith telepathy,bytalkingto
it, or with creative visualization. Your artificial elemental is
closely linked to you and your subconscious attitudes. It will
generally not do things you think it cannot do. As in any magick,
results relate to effort and belief. Another way of looking at an
artificial elemental is as an aspect of your personality (sub person-
ality) which has been detached from you.
INVOCATION
Formalritual usually involves the invocation (ritually
calling up) of a god or goddess, spirit, or other entity. In this
sense, magick is somewhat similar to pagan religion and witchcraft.
However, we consider magick ritual a technique, not a religion.
Worship need not be involved.
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Sometimes the invocation of an entity creates an artificial elemental.
Crowley says there are three different kinds of
invocation --
1) Devotion to the entity (as in the Bhakti yoga of
the Hare Krishna sect; the Faustian devil pact).
2) Ceremonial invocation -- usual method of the
middle ages.
3) Drama -- usually needs more than one person (as in
a mass).
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Becauseof themicrocosm-macrocosmidentity,whenyouinvoke
the gods, you are invoking aspects of yourself. Jung has referred to
the gods as primitive archetypes. This makes it sound like spiritual
entities are illusions. But in fact the microcosm-macrocosm identity
does not discredit the gods and goddesses. It instead helps to il-
lustrate our relationship to the cosmos.
>>CAUTIONS<<
1.Balanceis importantinmagick. Varytheentities invoked
in order to keep your personality in balance.
2. Oftenas nota ritualmay produce side-effects,usually
something similar to, though not exactly the desired goal. If the true
goal is delayed (as sometimes happens) we may see the side effects
first. And if for some reason the goal is not achieved at all ('mi-
ssing the target') the side effects may be pronounced. Examples: 1)
You use magick ritual to hurry shipment of an anticipated package in
the mail. Side effect -- the next day an unexpected package (the wrong
one) arrives instead. 2) You use magick ritual to cause a certain
person to phone you. Side effect -- for several
days all sorts of people phone you...The sides effects will not affect
you (or anyone else) adversely unless that is what you inwardly want.
1342
3.We maysaywith certaintythat"something alwayshappens"
when we perform a magick ritual. But like everything else, magick
follows the 'law of results'. This means that results require effort
of some kind. And if you don't work hard enough at it you don't get
results. Difficult goals have greater resistance (magical inertia) to
overcome. If the ritual doesn't produce the desired results there is a
good chance that the reason for the failure is within oursleves. Be
certain there is no contradiction between your model and your magical
goals. Sometimes self doubt and mental
contradictions (wanting and not wanting at the same time) may inter-
fere. The first step in magick is to re-program your model. And, of
course you can help your magical results by working on the physical
level toward your goals. Don't expect them to fall into your lap by
themselves.
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4)A peculiarqualityofmagickis timedisplacement.Results
of a ritual are not usually instantaneous. There is often a delay of
12 hours or more. Difficult tasks or weakly performed ritual are more
likely to be delayed. In most cases a slight delay is alright, and it
gives us time to get used to the comming changes. And sometimes the
effects of a ritual
appear to extend to before the ritual was performed!
5)Because of theway magick works,a ritualmay create an
emphasis in what is sought, and a de-emphasis in everything else.
Balance is therefore important here. Once the magical result is
achieved it may be 'bound' to you and difficult to get rid of should
you later decide to do so.
Example: You use a magick ritual to help you find and buy a new house.
Years later when you decide to sell it, you are unable to do so.
Consider your magical goals wisely so you dont get stuck with som-
ething you don't really want. Note that theory says you can always
unbind through ritual what was bound to you...theory says.
6) Sometimesthe environmentappears to reactagainst the
magick after the results are achieved. This is particularly noticeable
in using magick to affect the weather (and the main reason why you
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should NOT use magick to affect the weather). For example...Your
performance of a ritual to produce a sunny day produces a sunny day.
The next day is sunny, alright, but the rest of the month is cold and
overcast. Here the weather seems to react to the magick in the op-
posite way to re-establish its natural balance. It is something like
pushing a pendulum to one side and releasing it -- the pendulum swings
to the other side. To quote
Emmerson -- "For everything you gain you lose something...". I don't
know that this is always true in magick, but it does illustrate the
point. And another reason not to use magick to affect the weather is
that it might foul it up in other parts of the country (world??).
7) Finally,magickritual(orany magickoroccultism)isvery
dangerous for the mentally unstable. If you should somehow 'get out
too far', eat 'heavy foods' as previously discussed (lesson on chak-
ras) and use your religious background or old belief system for
support. But remember too, that wierd experiences are not necessarily
bad experiences.
1345
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) What is creative visualization?
2) List the basic parts of a ritual.
3) What is invocation?
RESEARCH TOPICS (for independent study)
1) Examine the differences between western magick and oriental
magick.
2) How do medieval grimoirs follow the basic ritual pattern?
3) Research and design your own formal ritual.
BOOK LIST
P.E.I. Bonewitz, Real Magic.
David Conway, Magic: an Occult Primer (or Ritual Magic).
Aleister Crowley, Magick in Theory and Practice.
Denning and Phillips, Creative Visualization.
Ophiel, Creative Visualization.
A.E. Powell, The Astral Body.
________, The Mental Body.
Joseph Weed, Wisdom of the Ancient Masters.
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Julian Wilde, Grimoire of Chaos Magick.
========
Phil Hansford, 4/88
Mysteria
(818) 353-8891 (modem)
P.O. Box 83
Tujunga, CA 91042
1347