| Notice that we have included the metal which is associated with the
planet, as well as common attributes of each planet. The theory of Cabalistic Magick is to
select the appropriate planet for the desired result. The attribute column will assist in
that selection. Once a particular planet is determined, an entity is selected from the
correspondence tables by matching the key number. A set of correspondence tables may be
available on this board as a separate file (777.ARC). Additionally, a list of selected
deities from several popular pantheons and with a brief description about them may be
available on this board as GODS.LST. Although Hebrew Mysticism is the original source of
Cabalistic ideas, it is mostly unconcerned with the magical implications of those ideas.
How can a religious philosophy which is monotheistic lend credibility to a polytheistic
approach? Various deities are understood as *aspects* or *qualities* of the Supreme God.
This is not a contradiction, merely a restatement of the microcosm-macrocosm idea once
again. The Sefirotic Tree, in its representation of the universe is the Macrocosm. While
it could be said that any single sefiroth has its own separate qualities, it remains,
nonetheless, a part of the whole tree, and a part of the macrocosm. As a result, virtually
any pantheon or belief system is compatible with the Cabala. WILLPOWER
AND MAGICK
Western Magick has traditionally placed a great deal of emphasis
upon the use of willpower as a means of development and self-mastery. But this may not be
the best method in the long run. Isaac Bonewitz describes how the subconscious will
sometimes rebel against willpower with 'spectacular results'. It is far better to run
one's life democratically. Hawaiian Kahuna Magick describes the 'three selves', i.e. the
lower self (or subconscious), the middle self (or normal consciousness), and the high self
(spirit or Holy Guardian Angel). Enlightenment in the Hawaiian system consists of
unification of the three selves. They become 'buddies'. Enlightenment does not come from
great change. It comes from great acceptance. Continual effort at becoming better takes
you nowhere. For becoming it is not being it. The unification is achieved by first
developing communication with the subconscious and later with the high self also. Simple
exercises with a pendulum, automatic writing, raised finger responses, self hypnosis,
recording and analysis of dreams etc. facilitate communication with the subconscious. At
first communication with the high self must be via the subconscious, but later it is
possible to go direct to it.
PSYCHIC ENERGY
Many occult groups follow an energy model for Magick and the
physical body. This model (or theory) equates psychic energy with kundalini/prana/sexual
or life force energy. The ideal of kundalini yoga is thus to raise the kundalini to the
higher chakras (especially ajna and sahasrara) thereby enhancing psychic/Magick powers.
The release of psychic energy is also relevant to mental control, good health and
longevity, and the attainment of 'cosmic consciousness'. Meditation and yoga is used to
liberate psychic energy so that it can be used for magical purposes. But there are other
ways to liberate psychic energy. Many of these techniques will act as a mental catharsis
in the sense of invigorating the psyche and resulting in improved intellectual and
physical performance.
1) Psychotherapy of certain types which releases pent up psychological energy.
2) Overcoming mind games, hang-ups, and inhibitions. This is the basis of all listed
practices, as hang-ups waste psychic energy. Certain psychotropic drugs may have this
affect. Also the 'kicks' from 'risks' like skydiving.
3) Vigorous dance and physical exercise -- to the point of 'second wind'.
4) 'Desirelessness' and various religious practices.
5) The way of return, and various other mystical practices.
6) Atavistic resurgence.
This last item deserves some extra mention. It was one of Austin Spare's methods. It means
to contact the primitive emotions deep within the psyche. In a sense it is regressive.
However, there is power there, if you are able to control it. We have seen how magical
theory is based upon the assumption that psychic phenomena is real. If this is so, then
Magick is also real. And we have also seen how Magick is the art and science of causing
change in accordance with the will by non-physical means. Magical philosophy is the
working system of terms, theories, and symbols upon which Magick is based. But Magick goes
further than that, for as an ancient system of psychology, Magick may be used as is a
means of self improvement and spiritual growth. For Magick and mysticism are parallel
paths, each ultimately leading to transcendence.
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1) What do we mean by the relationship between the inner and outer
worlds?
2) What is wrong with willpower?
3) Explain the energy model of Magick.
BOOK LIST
P.E.I. Bonewitz, Hawaiian Magic (tape).
Pete Carrol, Liber Null.
------, Psychonaut.
John Heriot, Teaching Yourself White Magic.
Allan P. Lewis, Clearing Your Lifepath.
Max Freedom Long, The Secret Science Behind Miracles.
------, The Secret Science At Work.
Stephen Mace, Stealing the Fire from Heaven.
Copyright (c)1988 by Phil Hansford. This article is licensed for
free non-commercial distribution only. |
