I love being a Neophyte.
Simply because I have the opportunity to look blankly at people and then encouraging them and others around me to expound their knowledge and display their skills and experience, which is, and will always be, a whole lot deeper and experiential than I possess right now.
Not because I think I am a bad occultist or enjoy putting myself down, but because I am truly blessed to be in an Order that consists of individuals who have spent a considerable part of their lives not only as Golden Dawn people, but generally engaged in Magic and Occult studies. None of them have really sat me down and 'explained' how awesome they are to me. I didn't receive a dossier on each member with their qualifications, lineages and "power levels". There is no required reading list of their books or publications. I have had to talk to other members of the Order and infer from conversations the depth and breadth of their skill and experience. I have had to be in rituals, have deep experiences and magical experiences to try to understand their skills and expertise. I actually am really intimidated by some of the members of my Order, as well as their associates and other work they do. For example; one of my co-members is a 30 year plus leader of their community, one is an internationally recognised authority on the Golden Dawn and yet another is an internationally derided pagan troll!
They are nothing but generous with their time and thoughts, the things I have brought to the table will hopefully help their practice and build our Golden Dawn Order up and promote it's stability and longevity.
I have approximately 16 years of occult experience (not sure how much I have really, this is a guess and discounts everything up till the age of 21, teen angst and all that. From 21, I was more systematic). As an occultist I started with reading and exploring religious thought outside my Catholic upbringing, working with Saints and eventually entering into Freemasonry and finally initiation into occult orders. I have been a Freemason for over 14 years and I am now in the sad position of seeing many of my amazing mentors and Brothers passing to the Grand Lodge above. While they may not have been interested in Esoteric Freemasonry as far as I knew (they may have been, but were probably more discrete than I) but they gave me a firm foundation on which to build my magical practice.
Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth; Faith, Hope and Charity; Beauty, Strength and Wisdom.
Showing posts with label western mysteries. Show all posts
Showing posts with label western mysteries. Show all posts
Monday, February 12, 2018
Sunday, April 2, 2017
What is this dry bone?
This conversation was primarily about what the heck I have been up to with the Magical Order I have joined. My wife is fairly open minded about things and while I am subjected to oaths of secrecy around some of the stuff we do, I was able to describe the general goals of the Order, what is Initiation (that was a long conversation!) and what I have been getting out of it.
Coming out of this discussion was the question on whether I preferred doing Golden Dawn things, or Freemasonry... I answered without hesitation and quite passionately that the GD work was by far the most fulfilling and important to me and my interest in Freemasonry has declined significantly since I have started being a GD person. "Why" was the next question... I have come up with the following:
- While Freemasonry has given me a symbolic language that I have internalised and is part of my being, it feels almost as if the symbolism of the Golden Dawn has replaced the Masonic meanings
- The Golden Dawn utilises and builds on the foundation of Freemasonry well and show a lifelong relationship with Lodge workings and rituals by its Founders
- Freemasonry does not have the 'life' that exists in the Golden Dawn. For example: if I suggested to the senior officers of the Lodge (Master and Wardens) that they should envisage themselves as the legendary figure associated with their office and assume their form (assuming Godforms in Golden Dawn practice), I would be considered batshit crazy
- Lack of connection to HaShem other than empty prayers and references in the ritual. Mechanical and often without feeling; this leads in to;
- Brothers knowing the ritual word perfect, but not knowing the ritual internally, making it part of their being and giving it passion, empty words and sounding like empty promises
- Northern Hemisphere practice with no interest in local conditions. Lodges are hermetically sealed against the local Land and place in space and time
- The Golden Dawn feels more than Freemasonry, there is a much wider range of ritual undertaken, the schema or design of the rituals and how they work together and separately over time and within each other is really special and interesting to research (note. While the other Degrees can also be considered in this light, there is little occult knowledge to be found in them today in Western Australian Freemasonry, this is my personal experience and opinion, which may not reflect others reality
- The members of my Golden Dawn Order understand my desire to unify with HaShem, the drive to the Divine that may be the background goal of Freemasonry, but is not a foremost in the minds of the practitioners of the Rite.
I will continue to explore my Continental, Sub Rosa Masonic Rite, but 'Blue Lodge' Freemasonry of the Western Australian Constitution has lost my heart.
B"H
Pax,
MvdV
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Re-approaching the Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram
(This is an ironic post. A group I am a member of just did a training session on the Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram last week. I started this post in March, 2016).
My personal religious views have changed over the last few years; with this is mind I have decided to re-approach my magical work with my new religious point of view consciously part of the procedure. This has been both confronting and illuminating to my growth.
This post is bitsy and relies on expressing things that are difficult to express. The post is a whole, to be read as parts and whole (if that made sense to you, then the post will work for you).
In particular I have found the Lesser Ritual of the Pentagram (LRP) to be a very powerful study of the changes to my magical process. In particular, the power of the names being invoked, my deeper understanding of Hebrew (still terrible though!) and the role that the Spheres, Angels and humans are to play in the Universe as Hashem has decided. The LRP names the forces that are to be invoked and are involved in the ritual. They are not really forces per say, but are part of, and an expression of, Hashem's will to align the universe with Hashem's will.
When pronouncing the Hebrew names of the Archangels; the El at the end of each name is particularly important. El refers to Hashem and denotes the role that each Archangel plays in maintaining creation in alignment with Hashem's will. The flow from this understanding is key to implementing the pentagrams in their side of the ritual space. The first sound of the name is their designation and reason for creation. You link the names of the Archangels to the name of Hashem that is allocated to that direction.
The LRP has an elemental focus that contains an allocation of the cardinal directions with the four Archangels and builds within their forms symbols of the elements. This indicates the importance of working with the elements within Malkuth. The elements make up and are essential to Malkuth as part and whole. Malkuth should not be disdained, but accepted as part of the whole.
Separation of the Archangels from Hashem is impossible, identifying the Archangels as Hashem is impossible, the six rayed star is key...
This is a complex issue, the LRP cannot be ignored for it's importance and relevance to practice. I can see why it was the only magic that members of the original Golden Dawn practised for years in some cases.
Pax,
MvdV
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Magic in being Mystical
Hasidism is not traditional Judaism as recorded in the Torah.
It is a system created by the Hasidic revolution that swept across Eastern Europe due to the inspirational and almost Messianic efforts of the Baal Shem Tov, Israel ben Eliezer (1698-1760). It was born in a time when Judaism in Eastern Europe was at a low spiritual ebb and needed mystical support.
Ongoing pogroms (Cossack Uprisings 1648-1654) in Russia and violent unrest in Poland, the invasion of the Ottoman Empire of 1672-76 and the ongoing conflict over large areas of Poland by the Russian Empire lead to a chaotic and dangerous time for minorities in Eastern Europe. The influence of local strongmen and vast military campaigns tore up the contract of normality that had existed in Jewish Eastern Europe for over 100 years.
At the same time as this physical danger, spiritually rocking the Jewish world was the failed Messiah and apostasy of Sabbetai Zevi; the Messianic and eventually anti-Jewish movement of Jacob Franks and conflict between different schools of thought over Kabbalah and mysticism during the 17th and 18th Centuries. All of this lead to a chaotic and spiritually draining time for Yisrael in Eastern Europe.
Hasidism is at its core a Ashkenazim movement; as the rest of Yisrael did not experience the same pressures and situations. It is the result of the unique conditions, culture, language and experiences. The most obvious thing that non-Hasidic Jews point out as the difference between Orthodoxy and Hasidism is the role of the Rabbi, or Rebbe as he (always a he!) is called in Yiddish. These men are almost revered as living links to Hashem and provide spiritual, financial, personal and all types of advice to their followers.
One of the core lessons and skills of the Tzaddik's was the telling of profound and intensely deep lessons within the provision of stories. Stories of the activities of the Rebbes, stories of miracles they had performed, lesson they had given and conflicts with the sins of Yisrael. These stories are told, retold and examined for their spiritual and religious lessons. I am currently taking a course in the stories of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov run by his Hasidism. Many of these stories are very complex, many are simple. Some of them can even be as short as a few sentences or chapters in length. I have a number of collected sayings in my library and I'll often spend a lot of time reading through them, trying to find the core of their teachings.
By spending time with the Rebbe's and trying to reconstruct their lives and teachings we are projected into a time where Torah became part of everyday life. Instead of the complex theological and dry debates of the establishment, Hasidism gave ordinary uneducated and poor Jews the opportunity to engage in the bringing of Mosiach and the end of suffering on Earth. Hasidism emphasised the presence of Hashem in the everyday. Simple daily chores and actions became mystical when imbued with the theories and mystical attitudes of the Rebbes, recalling Hashem and dedicating everything to contemplating Hashem. The act of working a field or another trade were thus filled with a mystical power that connected the Jew to Hashem and his plan for the world. Charity was a key, in thought and deed, Joy was another and was the watchword of many Hasids. By joyously following the Halakha and rulings of their Rebbe; Hasids were able to cleave to Hashem in a mystical, almost magical relationship that gave them hope and purpose in life. The presence of Kabbalah and other magical formulas were inherent to the Hassidic way of life. Rebbe's were capable of great miracles, could ascend to the Holy Seat and beg on behalf of lost Jewish souls. They could identify souls that had returned to Earth to fulfil a certain role or perform an act that was essential to Hashem's plan. Rebbe's could open the gates of Heaven to allow the blessings of Hashem to descend on their congregations. They could say a word to an individual and change their whole life journey and purpose. They were magical because of their intense cleaving to Hashem and understanding of his plan and Creation. Many of the miracles that Rebbes and their followers have attributed to them can be moved into and likened to ceremonial magic. Rituals, prayers, working with aspects of creation that are behind the scenes, linked to specific ceremonial dates, festivals and astronomical events. Their miraculous relationship can be linked to that intricate life long commitment to trying to focus all of their acts to Hashem and giving thanks for ALL situations no matter whether they are good or bad, feast or famine.
Modern Rebbe's are not always considered in the same way as the original Rebbes as many scholars track a decline in the quality of Rebbes equal to the increase in quantity of Rebbes over time. Stratification, splits, conflict and an increasing authoritarian approach by some Rebbes has caused a decline in the overall appreciation of Hasidic life by non-Hasidic Jews; but this is not necessarily true for all Hasidic Dynasties (and many of them are dynasties with formal Courts similar to autocratic rulers of the 'old country). There are still true Tzaddik's building their communities links to Hashem and being real leaders of Hasidic thought.
My favourite story collection is a relatively new text of Hasidic tales from the Shoah (the Holocaust) and how the faith and miraculous works of Tzaddik's managed to help carry and support many of the Hasidic believers through this event. Some of the greatest stories (in my opinion) are about Yisrael Spira z'l the Bluzhever Rebbe. He observed such great power amongst Jews in the camps that he had to tell their stories as testaments to their lives and belief. He was a true Tzaddik.
The Baal Shem Tov, the Arizal, DovBer, Nachman of Breslov, the Angel there are hundreds of individuals with amazing lives and relationships with Hashem.
Also, a modern approach to this idea is examined in Radzyn which is an amazing combination of art, animation, storytelling and mysticism staged at the start of WW2 and the Shoah. Please, visit this site and explore. The stories of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov in any form are too amazing to ignore, especially the annotated versions available through the Breslov Institute.
Please, please, please spend the time to explore these amazing individuals and their stories.
Pax
MvdV
It is a system created by the Hasidic revolution that swept across Eastern Europe due to the inspirational and almost Messianic efforts of the Baal Shem Tov, Israel ben Eliezer (1698-1760). It was born in a time when Judaism in Eastern Europe was at a low spiritual ebb and needed mystical support.
Ongoing pogroms (Cossack Uprisings 1648-1654) in Russia and violent unrest in Poland, the invasion of the Ottoman Empire of 1672-76 and the ongoing conflict over large areas of Poland by the Russian Empire lead to a chaotic and dangerous time for minorities in Eastern Europe. The influence of local strongmen and vast military campaigns tore up the contract of normality that had existed in Jewish Eastern Europe for over 100 years.
At the same time as this physical danger, spiritually rocking the Jewish world was the failed Messiah and apostasy of Sabbetai Zevi; the Messianic and eventually anti-Jewish movement of Jacob Franks and conflict between different schools of thought over Kabbalah and mysticism during the 17th and 18th Centuries. All of this lead to a chaotic and spiritually draining time for Yisrael in Eastern Europe.
Hasidism is at its core a Ashkenazim movement; as the rest of Yisrael did not experience the same pressures and situations. It is the result of the unique conditions, culture, language and experiences. The most obvious thing that non-Hasidic Jews point out as the difference between Orthodoxy and Hasidism is the role of the Rabbi, or Rebbe as he (always a he!) is called in Yiddish. These men are almost revered as living links to Hashem and provide spiritual, financial, personal and all types of advice to their followers.
One of the core lessons and skills of the Tzaddik's was the telling of profound and intensely deep lessons within the provision of stories. Stories of the activities of the Rebbes, stories of miracles they had performed, lesson they had given and conflicts with the sins of Yisrael. These stories are told, retold and examined for their spiritual and religious lessons. I am currently taking a course in the stories of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov run by his Hasidism. Many of these stories are very complex, many are simple. Some of them can even be as short as a few sentences or chapters in length. I have a number of collected sayings in my library and I'll often spend a lot of time reading through them, trying to find the core of their teachings.
By spending time with the Rebbe's and trying to reconstruct their lives and teachings we are projected into a time where Torah became part of everyday life. Instead of the complex theological and dry debates of the establishment, Hasidism gave ordinary uneducated and poor Jews the opportunity to engage in the bringing of Mosiach and the end of suffering on Earth. Hasidism emphasised the presence of Hashem in the everyday. Simple daily chores and actions became mystical when imbued with the theories and mystical attitudes of the Rebbes, recalling Hashem and dedicating everything to contemplating Hashem. The act of working a field or another trade were thus filled with a mystical power that connected the Jew to Hashem and his plan for the world. Charity was a key, in thought and deed, Joy was another and was the watchword of many Hasids. By joyously following the Halakha and rulings of their Rebbe; Hasids were able to cleave to Hashem in a mystical, almost magical relationship that gave them hope and purpose in life. The presence of Kabbalah and other magical formulas were inherent to the Hassidic way of life. Rebbe's were capable of great miracles, could ascend to the Holy Seat and beg on behalf of lost Jewish souls. They could identify souls that had returned to Earth to fulfil a certain role or perform an act that was essential to Hashem's plan. Rebbe's could open the gates of Heaven to allow the blessings of Hashem to descend on their congregations. They could say a word to an individual and change their whole life journey and purpose. They were magical because of their intense cleaving to Hashem and understanding of his plan and Creation. Many of the miracles that Rebbes and their followers have attributed to them can be moved into and likened to ceremonial magic. Rituals, prayers, working with aspects of creation that are behind the scenes, linked to specific ceremonial dates, festivals and astronomical events. Their miraculous relationship can be linked to that intricate life long commitment to trying to focus all of their acts to Hashem and giving thanks for ALL situations no matter whether they are good or bad, feast or famine.
Modern Rebbe's are not always considered in the same way as the original Rebbes as many scholars track a decline in the quality of Rebbes equal to the increase in quantity of Rebbes over time. Stratification, splits, conflict and an increasing authoritarian approach by some Rebbes has caused a decline in the overall appreciation of Hasidic life by non-Hasidic Jews; but this is not necessarily true for all Hasidic Dynasties (and many of them are dynasties with formal Courts similar to autocratic rulers of the 'old country). There are still true Tzaddik's building their communities links to Hashem and being real leaders of Hasidic thought.
My favourite story collection is a relatively new text of Hasidic tales from the Shoah (the Holocaust) and how the faith and miraculous works of Tzaddik's managed to help carry and support many of the Hasidic believers through this event. Some of the greatest stories (in my opinion) are about Yisrael Spira z'l the Bluzhever Rebbe. He observed such great power amongst Jews in the camps that he had to tell their stories as testaments to their lives and belief. He was a true Tzaddik.
The Baal Shem Tov, the Arizal, DovBer, Nachman of Breslov, the Angel there are hundreds of individuals with amazing lives and relationships with Hashem.
Also, a modern approach to this idea is examined in Radzyn which is an amazing combination of art, animation, storytelling and mysticism staged at the start of WW2 and the Shoah. Please, visit this site and explore. The stories of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov in any form are too amazing to ignore, especially the annotated versions available through the Breslov Institute.
Please, please, please spend the time to explore these amazing individuals and their stories.
Pax
MvdV
Monday, February 8, 2016
Hasids got me trippin'!
When I was a younger man, my father told me (in between swigs of his 16th beer of the evening) that I should always try to cut out the middleman. It's probably one of the very few good pieces of advice he ever gave me, it took me a long time to realise this particular gem but now; I'm a regular at our local fruit wholesalers, buy in bulk from friends and I can be found at warehouse sales every now and then.
The same can be said for my spiritual journey. It has taken me years to get to where I am now. I've spent that time looking, exploring and investigating. But returning to the Source over time.
There has never really been a time where I have not acknowledged and believed in who I now refer to as Hashem.
My Masonry has given me a great foundation (ha) in symbolism, ritual and seeing the power (Hashem) behind what we physically see. It has opened me up to occult thought and brought me to some amazing depths and horrific highs.
My magical journey has been guided by my contact with individuals and non-individuals as well as the steady rhythm of Masonry in the background. I have turned more to the Golden Dawn system of magic as it relies heavily on the Jewish thought pattern and religious thinking. The Cabbalistic Cross and the LBRP/LIRP carry aspects of the Mincha (afternoon prayers) and Psalm magic is literally 70% of the contents of the Siddur (Jewish Prayer book). While this may be due to the appropriation of Hebrew as a magical language due to the nature of Hebrew itself (numerology and the symbolism of every letter); Iit may have more to do with a saying that the sages gave us: There are 70 facets to Torah. This means that every chapter, every verse, every sentence, every word and every letter can be viewed and explored in 70 different ways. With this multitude of ideas and occult ways of thinking, Judaism offers a surprising amount of territory to explore.
I have been delving into the sayings, stories and lives of the Rebbe's of the Hasidic revolution in the 1700's to today. The Hassidic movement changed the focus of Judaism away from the legalistic and complex wrangling between scholars to something that would appeal to the Jew of the street. There was a renewed focus on putting Hashem before you in all things, from doing your day job, eating, talking playing suffering and rejoycing. They also added in a massive dose of Mysticism and Kabbalistic teachings as well as a helping of practical self help and care for Yisrael; all Jews no matter who they where and where they were on the road towards Hashem.
This is an indication of where my magic is going and has made significant impacts on my ritual and areas of interest.
The most interesting thing that I have found is that the sayings and stories of the Rebbe's possess something that is eternal and ineffable. One of the introductions to their stories begins with this statement; "These stories are not necessarily true, but no one could ever agree that they were false".
I'll finish this quick update with the final words of Zusha z'l.
The story is told of Zusha, the great Chassidic master, who lay crying on his deathbed. His students asked him, "Rebbe, why are you so sad? After all the mitzvahs and good deeds you have done, you will surely get a great reward in heaven!"
"I'm afraid!" said Zusha. "Because when I get to heaven, I know God's not going to ask me 'Why weren't you more like Moses?' or 'Why weren't you more like King David?' But I'm afraid that God will ask 'Zusha, why weren't you more like Zusha?' And then what will I say?!"
Pax
MvdV
The same can be said for my spiritual journey. It has taken me years to get to where I am now. I've spent that time looking, exploring and investigating. But returning to the Source over time.
There has never really been a time where I have not acknowledged and believed in who I now refer to as Hashem.
My Masonry has given me a great foundation (ha) in symbolism, ritual and seeing the power (Hashem) behind what we physically see. It has opened me up to occult thought and brought me to some amazing depths and horrific highs.
My magical journey has been guided by my contact with individuals and non-individuals as well as the steady rhythm of Masonry in the background. I have turned more to the Golden Dawn system of magic as it relies heavily on the Jewish thought pattern and religious thinking. The Cabbalistic Cross and the LBRP/LIRP carry aspects of the Mincha (afternoon prayers) and Psalm magic is literally 70% of the contents of the Siddur (Jewish Prayer book). While this may be due to the appropriation of Hebrew as a magical language due to the nature of Hebrew itself (numerology and the symbolism of every letter); Iit may have more to do with a saying that the sages gave us: There are 70 facets to Torah. This means that every chapter, every verse, every sentence, every word and every letter can be viewed and explored in 70 different ways. With this multitude of ideas and occult ways of thinking, Judaism offers a surprising amount of territory to explore.
I have been delving into the sayings, stories and lives of the Rebbe's of the Hasidic revolution in the 1700's to today. The Hassidic movement changed the focus of Judaism away from the legalistic and complex wrangling between scholars to something that would appeal to the Jew of the street. There was a renewed focus on putting Hashem before you in all things, from doing your day job, eating, talking playing suffering and rejoycing. They also added in a massive dose of Mysticism and Kabbalistic teachings as well as a helping of practical self help and care for Yisrael; all Jews no matter who they where and where they were on the road towards Hashem.
This is an indication of where my magic is going and has made significant impacts on my ritual and areas of interest.
The most interesting thing that I have found is that the sayings and stories of the Rebbe's possess something that is eternal and ineffable. One of the introductions to their stories begins with this statement; "These stories are not necessarily true, but no one could ever agree that they were false".
I'll finish this quick update with the final words of Zusha z'l.
The story is told of Zusha, the great Chassidic master, who lay crying on his deathbed. His students asked him, "Rebbe, why are you so sad? After all the mitzvahs and good deeds you have done, you will surely get a great reward in heaven!"
"I'm afraid!" said Zusha. "Because when I get to heaven, I know God's not going to ask me 'Why weren't you more like Moses?' or 'Why weren't you more like King David?' But I'm afraid that God will ask 'Zusha, why weren't you more like Zusha?' And then what will I say?!"
Pax
MvdV
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Is it on your side?
 |
| Torah, read it. |
My intense time overseas at the start of the year; at the heart of humanities holiness; while dealing with the most destructive period of time in history has raised significant doubts in my fight to become closer to the divine.
I have embraced a stronger relationship with G-d, by which I mean the G-d of Abraham and Issac, Moses and Samuel. I have been reading the Torah daily, arguing with my more knowledgable friends and attempting to get to Shule when I can. I have found the words of the Baal Shem Tov, Rabbi Abraham Kook and the Psalms to be where my heart is focussed these days. This has not really changed my approach to my Masonic system; the removal of the Saints John from my liturgy has not really been a problem. I have not replaced them with a Torah equivalent, I am waiting to see what manifests through my research and meditation on the issue.
I am not 'going Jew', even though I have been asked that in recent history (said like it was a bad thing? I'm pretty sure it's not a bad thing). I am a Noahide. I take the seven commandments to Adam and Noah from G-d as my guide. I contemplate the Unity of G-d and the majesty of his unity. I revere the mystical connection between my creator and I through prayer, ritual and action. I have discovered a stronger link between my Masonic system and my faith now. It feels as though I have swept away a whole facade that got in the way of my interaction with my system and G-d.
I love it and life is better for it.
Pax
MvdV
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Walking Away From the Big JC
Well,
I've been a busy boy over the last 6 months. I realise I haven't written anything in a while, this is mostly because of the business of family life, having to work and trying to maintain my personal practice. While I usually try to commit some of my thoughts into writing at least once every three weeks, well it's been really hard keeping up with my previous schedule.
So, I sit here with my (truly awful) lukewarm cup of tea in a post winter cold room (chilly tiles=cold feet) trying to shake a sense of despondency. I have been spending a lot of my time reading through some of my earlier notes and a massive change has occurred in my personal magical practice, it has been a slow thing, but viewed over the long term it is a significant shift. While I have always worked within a Christian framework (it is the culture I have grown up in, live in and to a great extent, think in) I have been finding more and more of my personal religious beliefs moving away from the Christian-ness of its past. If something leaves and creates a vacuum, something will come in to fill that space to ensure it is full. What is the replacement? I haven't quite figured that out. I have been focusing on Hebrew and my daily practice so far.
I have the feeling that this change in my feelings comes from a few different things.
I've been a busy boy over the last 6 months. I realise I haven't written anything in a while, this is mostly because of the business of family life, having to work and trying to maintain my personal practice. While I usually try to commit some of my thoughts into writing at least once every three weeks, well it's been really hard keeping up with my previous schedule.
So, I sit here with my (truly awful) lukewarm cup of tea in a post winter cold room (chilly tiles=cold feet) trying to shake a sense of despondency. I have been spending a lot of my time reading through some of my earlier notes and a massive change has occurred in my personal magical practice, it has been a slow thing, but viewed over the long term it is a significant shift. While I have always worked within a Christian framework (it is the culture I have grown up in, live in and to a great extent, think in) I have been finding more and more of my personal religious beliefs moving away from the Christian-ness of its past. If something leaves and creates a vacuum, something will come in to fill that space to ensure it is full. What is the replacement? I haven't quite figured that out. I have been focusing on Hebrew and my daily practice so far.
I have the feeling that this change in my feelings comes from a few different things.
- My travels around the place and some time I spent in Jerusalem
- My initiation into a new order and the changes it has wrought
- The normal stresses and everyday pressures that influence thought and interactions
- Doing some Biblical work and coming away unconvinced
I have encountered some major flaws in my previous understanding and I have found that I have been unable to find the glue to put my knowledge back together. I have been unable to make the same leaps I used to, and I have found that no matter where I look and who I speak to to discuss the issue I am unable to get back to my previous mindset.
I have been exploring the Noahide Laws and B'nai Noach and regularly spend time reading through Torah and discussing Torah and Talmud with my Jewish friends, I may actually be trending towards Judaism as a future life path.
Anyway, enough for now. I've had a big day discussing the role of Jesus as the Passover offering with my students...
Pax,
MvdV
Monday, March 31, 2014
The Structure of Freemasonry
I truly hate this picture...
One persons fringe is another's centre and working within an area that is shrouded in mystery, like Freemasonry, can be especially difficult to understand for people who do not have a working understanding of the relationships between organisations.
The purpose of this post is to try to work on improving the readers understanding of 'recognition' and the relationship between 'Masonic', 'Appendant Bodies' and 'Quasi-Masonic/ Fringe Orders'.
'Lodge Masonry'
First it is essential to emphasis (again and again) that there is no degree higher in Freemasonry than the 3rd, the Master Mason. There is rank and recognition of experience in the form of the Past Master who has been the Master of a Lodge. In some constitutions there is a 'Board of Installed Masters' which is convened at the Installation of a Master in the Chair of a Lodge, but this is not an additional Degree in the Masonic sense. I will be using the designation Lodge Freemasonry and Grand Lodge Freemasonry to identify "Blue Lodge", "ordinary Freemasonry". ( I know I have been using lots of quotation marks, it makes it easier, so sorry).
Usually 'mainstream' Lodge Freemasonry is decided by recognition by the United Grand Lodge of England. This is the easiest and most visible sigh of Lodge Masonry normality. The Grand Lodge of Western Australia for example is recognised by the UGLE and enjoys recognition from all of the bodies around the world that also find themselves in a positive relationship with the UGLE. There are exceptions and there is an alternate group of Grand Lodges arranged around the Grand Orient of France (yes this is simplistic and grossly reduced to mud map status, but this is not an academic paper, it's a blog). Many of these Grand Lodges do not require a belief in God or may accept women members. This means they are not 'recognised' by the UGLE due to these differences. This system is not perfect for example, in my opinion, the Grand Orient of Italy has been poorly treated by the UGLE and many of the 'Regular' Grand Lodges. The GOI still adheres to all of the Ancient Landmarks but were de-recognised in the 1980's due to the P2 scandal and associated issues.
These Grand bodies oversee the activities of Lodges and give them their legitimacy with a Warrant and Constitution.
'Appendant Bodies'
Any other Degree received by a Freemason is usually from what is called an Appendant Body. Membership of these organisations usually have certain Masonic prerequisites, such as being a Master Mason or a Past Master for instance.
It is VITAL to understand that the rank achieved in the Appendant Bodies has NO IMPACT OR INFLUENCE in Lodge Freemasonry. A Grand Officer in an Appendant Body has no rank in Grand Lodge created by the Appendant Body rank (obviously they may have Grand Rank they have earned through service to the Lodge and Grand Lodge) and are considered to be ordinary general members of the Lodge. Other members of their Lodge who are members of the Appendant Body that they have received the high rank in may treat them with more respect, but it depends on the individual.
Now the vaunted 33rd Degree that conspiracy theorists are so fond of spruiking as the 'secret masters' of Freemasonry with the 'real secrets' have no real pull or influence in Lodge Freemasonry. Their 33rd degree is in the Antient and Accepted Scottish Rite and only influences members of that Appendant Order and usually only at their meetings. A 33rd could tell me what to do in Lodge Freemasonry, and if I outranked him I could ignore the instruction, but at an AASR meeting, I'd be following his reasonable request.
Masonic and Appendant Body ranks only work in relation to Masonic and Appendant Body activities. I would not expect to be told by a superior to sell my house or do certain activities outside of the Masonic or Appendant Body sphere. I would be more than happy to follow his instruction on a ritual matter, how to walk or where to stand during a degree for example.
There are many Appendant Bodies to be found in the Masonic sphere, anything from Secret Masters to Masonic Knights Templar, and the rank that they achieve is only relevant to that organisation. Some of the organisations are very different to Lodge Freemasonry in that they restrict membership to certain faiths. Christian Orders are prevalent in the Appendant Orders and some Orders restrict membership to Trinitarian Christians. I am a member of one such Appendant Order and I feel it fits the Degree work and the purpose of the Appendant Order to remain as such.
'Quasi/Fringe Masonry'
This brings me to 'Quasi/Fringe Masonry' (QFM). This includes organisations that may ignore the traditional prerequisites for Freemasons to be Men and believe in G-d. These orders are such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, Co-Masonry, Feminine Freemasonry and countless other Organisations working under the radar. Many of these organisations have a mystical or magical focus and may contain both sexes for balance. These are unusual and may head too far into the occult for normal everyday members of Freemasonry. I am not saying they are wrong, just not right for everyone. Often these organisation have a specific religious focus and may have specific magical/esoteric/occult goals.
Feminine Freemasonry and Co-Masonry allow female and male members and only women to participate in Masonic Activity.
This is only a brief sketch to ensure that I get the major points across.
1. There is no higher degree in Lodge Masonry than the Third, or Master Mason Degree
2. Appendant Bodies may be recognised by Lodge Masonry and linked to it via mutual membership, but they have no official influence on each other.
3. Mystical, Magical and mixed gender is not 'normal' for mainstream Freemasonry.
Pax
MvdV
Friday, October 4, 2013
Contemplation
Carl McColman has been making some great blogs about Contemplation and its purpose in our "modern" world. This ties in nicely with the topics I have been covering with my work colleagues.
Get on it, check it out, start from the beginning @
http://www.carlmccolman.com/2013/09/26/the-archbishop-and-the-community-theologian/
Pax,
MvdV
Get on it, check it out, start from the beginning @
http://www.carlmccolman.com/2013/09/26/the-archbishop-and-the-community-theologian/
Pax,
MvdV
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Simple Masonic Magical Structure
Image pinched from Scarborough Lodge #1214 website www.scarboroughlodge.co.uk
Have a room, orientated East -West (can be symbolically orientated, merely think of the directions set in your mind)
Have a central table/altar on which is placed
- A Volume of Sacred Law of your choice
- Compass (nautical or builders)
- Builders square
Have a kneeling stool or cushion in front of the table/altar
A chair in the 'East'
Start from the West of the table facing East and perform your opening ritual of choice. I use a ritual based on the opening of a Regular Lodge (Western Australian Constitution) plus some other Order material I find matches up.
I also use incense and candles within the ritual as well as a 20 minute meditation in the Emblems of Mortality/Chamber of Reflection before the ritual proper begins.
I also use incense and candles within the ritual as well as a 20 minute meditation in the Emblems of Mortality/Chamber of Reflection before the ritual proper begins.
Once the area is cleared, you can commence.
Identify your goal: I usually work for wisdom, understanding, stability and fraternity. The desired outcome must match up with the spirit of Freemasonry, (Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth) or else your asking the wrong system. If you want power and shit, try a system that aims for that, Freemasonry has earthly power, but only through achieving its true goals (Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth) and the love of Wisdom.
I draw a Tracing Board on the floor in the East of the Table/Altar (I use a movable board for this) using Masonic Symbolism based on the goals of the ritual and within the framework of Masonic Ideals.
I draw a Tracing Board on the floor in the East of the Table/Altar (I use a movable board for this) using Masonic Symbolism based on the goals of the ritual and within the framework of Masonic Ideals.
Perambulate the table/altar three times, kneel before the table/altar in the West facing East and invoke the name of your deity (I use Masonic names, I would suggest you do too GAU, GGU or TMH)
"Oh TMH, may you place blessings on this your humble servant in this request. May you give me an increase of Faith, Hope and Charity so as I might further your Greatness and the reflected greatness of this Order. As the Moon reflects the majesty of the Solar body, may I/we become lights in the Darkness"
Open the VSL at your preferred passage, selected before hand to resonate with your intentions. Place the tools on the VSL (as represented in Masonic symbolism) and read the Verse that you need for the ritual.
Rise, perambulate three times and finish in the East (technically it is three &1/2 perambulations) use the Grand Royal Sign three times giving "All Glory to TMH".
Sit in your chair and visualise the power coming down into you as per the Kabbala and associated rituals, (use your own research here peeps, I'm not going to make it too easy for you). Link your power with that of the VSL as a conduit to TMH, joining within you and blending the two streams, creating a greater amount of energy than that you or the VSL can generate on your own. (Multiple individuals in this ritual obviously join in the power raising)
Visualise your goal, I tend to vocalise at this point and use a variety of ritual passages and stories from various rites I am a member of to express my goal and focus in on the intent beyond/behind the ritual.
When you have finished your work, finalise the conduit, close the ritual the way that you like, linked to the opening and reflecting on Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. Confirm you adherence to your God/s and secure the secrets you have been engaged in.
Erase the Tracing Board using water.
Bless the space and the participants.
Blow out the candles and tidy up. Do not leave the room set up and go for a cuppa tea straight away, clean it up and remove it all as soon as you finish.
Bless the space a second time, then go have your party pies and sausage rolls and high fives all round.
Yes I know this is simple, yes it is easy, that is why I put it up here, nothing revolutionary or mind blowing, just an easy ritual to help engage with Masonic Symbolism.
Pax.
MvdV
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Depression and Magic
The correlation between my depression and my magical practice are pretty clear and concise.
The more depressed I am and more triggers are pulled, the less magic I do.
I guess it has something to do with the nature of depression, as an illness depression stops motivation, reduces efficiency, creativity and motivation to achieve goals. All of these things are vital to a magical system.
As I am currently on a down cycle and having to work against the tide, my magical system and practice has taken a beating. But the system itself is the solution and I intend (alongside mainstream Western Medical solutions) to use ceremonial magic to correct my balance and get back on track. We'll see where I end up this time around.
I have been immersing myself in Jung's 'Red Book' which comes in a readers version if you are short of change, like me, and it has been useful for instruction and giving me ideas for operations and ceremonial goals. Biblical work with the Apocropha and Torah have been useful, especially the Book of Tobit, which if you are a Rose Croix Mason, you should be familiar with.
I will be travelling to Jerusalem in December and I cannot wait to be in that place, visit those places and do the things I can. I have been connecting with the Old Testament and attempting to get to the heart of why this YHVH chose who it did and how they reacted to Him. Never really a fan of the New Testament, the recycling of the OldTestament yet denying its validity always rang false with me. I don't mind the shift and love the role of Christ. I just would prefer a bit more respect for Jesus' historical, cultural and central identity.
I thorough recommend the Chumash with Rashi and the Daily Torah available from Chabad.org as tools towards understanding. Remember, the Torah has 70 facets, not just one!
Pax
MvdV
The more depressed I am and more triggers are pulled, the less magic I do.
I guess it has something to do with the nature of depression, as an illness depression stops motivation, reduces efficiency, creativity and motivation to achieve goals. All of these things are vital to a magical system.
As I am currently on a down cycle and having to work against the tide, my magical system and practice has taken a beating. But the system itself is the solution and I intend (alongside mainstream Western Medical solutions) to use ceremonial magic to correct my balance and get back on track. We'll see where I end up this time around.
I have been immersing myself in Jung's 'Red Book' which comes in a readers version if you are short of change, like me, and it has been useful for instruction and giving me ideas for operations and ceremonial goals. Biblical work with the Apocropha and Torah have been useful, especially the Book of Tobit, which if you are a Rose Croix Mason, you should be familiar with.
I will be travelling to Jerusalem in December and I cannot wait to be in that place, visit those places and do the things I can. I have been connecting with the Old Testament and attempting to get to the heart of why this YHVH chose who it did and how they reacted to Him. Never really a fan of the New Testament, the recycling of the OldTestament yet denying its validity always rang false with me. I don't mind the shift and love the role of Christ. I just would prefer a bit more respect for Jesus' historical, cultural and central identity.
I thorough recommend the Chumash with Rashi and the Daily Torah available from Chabad.org as tools towards understanding. Remember, the Torah has 70 facets, not just one!
Pax
MvdV
Monday, July 15, 2013
Lives of the Saints
I have been working with a system recently that is based on the 'Catholic' system of worship.
By Catholic, I mean the literal translation of the word to "Universal" and I use this idea as the basis of my system.
A sense of Universal acceptance of all and attempting to reconcile myself to follow the "Path" (path is a poor word for the feeling I am trying to convey and that term makes me a bit sad on the inside, much like the "Journey" reality television participants talk about) that is part of my role in the universe. The feeling is linked to compassions, grace, 'being in the now' (the Taoist ideal of Wu Wei) and the servant role emphasised in the Christian Tradition. Universal belonging and acceptance of the vastness of that that is me and not me.
Many of the outcomes of this magical system have been identifying links, intuition, opportunities, self-actualisation blinks allied with unfolding a greater identifying of the greater skein of life. Appreciating doors to opportunities and taking some, rejecting others and maybe even creeping through the occasional window I may not have seen through earlier.
By utilising meditation of the Christian tradition (yes it exists and I have a bit of info on it if you want) with the mystical lives of the saints and proto-saints of the places where Christianity and other traditions mixed and mingled (Ireland, Spain etc). These saints are focused on because of the nebulous nature of their stories, we know there are gaps and blending in their realities. There is ambiguity about their existence and relationship with pre-Christian deities/worship systems. I also incorporate some symbols from Afro-Caribbean systems, because of their use of Traditional Roman Catholic symbols.
This magical work is based on ambiguity and the unknown. It is pretty much the opposite of the Masonic Work I usually undertake, but a change is as good as a holiday!
Pax
MvdV
By Catholic, I mean the literal translation of the word to "Universal" and I use this idea as the basis of my system.
A sense of Universal acceptance of all and attempting to reconcile myself to follow the "Path" (path is a poor word for the feeling I am trying to convey and that term makes me a bit sad on the inside, much like the "Journey" reality television participants talk about) that is part of my role in the universe. The feeling is linked to compassions, grace, 'being in the now' (the Taoist ideal of Wu Wei) and the servant role emphasised in the Christian Tradition. Universal belonging and acceptance of the vastness of that that is me and not me.
Many of the outcomes of this magical system have been identifying links, intuition, opportunities, self-actualisation blinks allied with unfolding a greater identifying of the greater skein of life. Appreciating doors to opportunities and taking some, rejecting others and maybe even creeping through the occasional window I may not have seen through earlier.
By utilising meditation of the Christian tradition (yes it exists and I have a bit of info on it if you want) with the mystical lives of the saints and proto-saints of the places where Christianity and other traditions mixed and mingled (Ireland, Spain etc). These saints are focused on because of the nebulous nature of their stories, we know there are gaps and blending in their realities. There is ambiguity about their existence and relationship with pre-Christian deities/worship systems. I also incorporate some symbols from Afro-Caribbean systems, because of their use of Traditional Roman Catholic symbols.
This magical work is based on ambiguity and the unknown. It is pretty much the opposite of the Masonic Work I usually undertake, but a change is as good as a holiday!
Pax
MvdV
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Waite for it....
LXXIV
"That truth is at the bottom of a well is with some people a sufficient justification for allowing it to remain there..."
LVI
"The expression of the greater truths may be possible without cynicism, but the sardonic mood is inevitable..."
XCI
"A surface of commonplace often enables a man of genius to escape observation..."
III
"The last lesson of a liberal education is that, at least in the ordinary course, there is nothing that matters..."
A.E. Waite,
Steps to the Crown
While he may be difficult to read due to his approach to prose. Waite remains one of the luminaries of the Modern Western Tradition.
The above is from a book of aphorisms he presented which I would commend to you as something to enjoy and re-read over the years...
Pax,
MvdV
"That truth is at the bottom of a well is with some people a sufficient justification for allowing it to remain there..."
LVI
"The expression of the greater truths may be possible without cynicism, but the sardonic mood is inevitable..."
XCI
"A surface of commonplace often enables a man of genius to escape observation..."
III
"The last lesson of a liberal education is that, at least in the ordinary course, there is nothing that matters..."
A.E. Waite,
Steps to the Crown
While he may be difficult to read due to his approach to prose. Waite remains one of the luminaries of the Modern Western Tradition.
The above is from a book of aphorisms he presented which I would commend to you as something to enjoy and re-read over the years...
Pax,
MvdV
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Post- Presentation Post
Well, it went surprisingly well.
It was actually received quite well, and in the spirit it was offered.
I used a 'Catholic' emphasis that allowed a lot of members of staff to think that it was acceptable within the Catholic context. I used Catholic and Eastern examples and Saints to emphasise how 'mainstream' Christian contemplation on the word of God is.
If you would like an outline of what I presented, please feel free to contact me via this site/Google+ and I'll forward it too you.
In other interesting things, I came across this site today while doing some google-fu on "Magical Schema".
http://witching.org
A great Meta-Data project on early Witchcraft in England.
Pax
MvdV
It was actually received quite well, and in the spirit it was offered.
I used a 'Catholic' emphasis that allowed a lot of members of staff to think that it was acceptable within the Catholic context. I used Catholic and Eastern examples and Saints to emphasise how 'mainstream' Christian contemplation on the word of God is.
If you would like an outline of what I presented, please feel free to contact me via this site/Google+ and I'll forward it too you.
In other interesting things, I came across this site today while doing some google-fu on "Magical Schema".
http://witching.org
A great Meta-Data project on early Witchcraft in England.
Pax
MvdV
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Keeping it quiet...
As an Esotericist, I find working in an Evangelical Christian School to be a little bit of a challenge sometimes. Scrap that, it's a challenge ALL the time. The inability of some of my peers to even get close to understanding non-literal readings of Scripture is mind boggling. They are all fantastic, caring, charitable and loving educators who have a great love for Jesus, but they struggle when confronted with a different point of view. As a result of this I have kept my membership of Freemasonry, interest in the Occult and the Western Mystery Tradition a bit of a silent fact. I have not denied it when asked about it by students and staff (I do wear a Masonic ring), but I have not advertised the fact openly to my peers. It's sad, but I don't want to come into my office and find flyers and pamphlets on my desk trying to 'save me'. I am already saved and need no help staying in that state.
I am not expecting to be treated differently when my peers 'find out' I am different to their norm, but I know I'll be treated differently... If you know what I mean.
Members of staff are on a roster to do a Staff 'Devotion' on either a Monday or Friday morning. We do one a year and it is a bit of a big deal. The Admin are looking for something that adds to the Christian focus of the school, and emphasis of prayer, a Christian teaching or something that can be used to point at how the majority view of the school is the right one.
I intend to do a devotion on the importance of Christian Meditation/Mysticism and how we can spend time in communion with God without asking for anything. Just hanging out, getting to know God and what God is like. This may involve introducing them to some concepts they may find tricky; Saints, Mysticism etc etc. But I feel that a focus on just being and spending time trying to figure out what we are in the light of our relationship with God. This focus on relationship can turn us from a me first, gimmy gimmy relationship with the Divine and work towards a partnership, much like the relationship we need to cultivate with other forces/gods/essences/eminations etc etc I have laked about earlier.
We'll see how that goes...
Pax,
MvdV
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Be intense....
I have a busy life.
I am married with three kids (two under 6), I work full time in education for which I commute 50km a day (approximately for 2 hours a day, I love traffic), with frequent after hours responsibilities with students and staff. I train 3 times a week in the Martial Arts, twice a week in the gym pushing iron and I am an active Freemason with membership in several orders. To round it off, I am also studying a Postgraduate Theological qualification at University.
Looking at that I am amazed that I even got one of my magical goals completed, let alone starting to create the system I have been working on over the last 18 months. The system itself is going okay and is focused on using experiences from outside of 'magic', harnessing it, and using it at a later date in a ritual/magical manner. For example, attending a Masonic ritual and using the energy or intent of the ritual after the event in a more focused way in a magical ritual to achieve my goals.
But my post today is not about my system. Or magic per say.
It is about being intense and getting the most out of life as you humanly can.
I have a lot of commitments, my wife and I often joke about how we have to cheat on our other commitments to spend time together, our discussions about our days are fleeting things, captured in the time between going to bed and the end of a cup of Milo after tucking in the kids/finishing working. We go out to dinner with each other now and then and often go for walks and do other things together. It's not a totally absent relationship, but our lives are balanced against our other interests.
I love it. I wouldn't want my life to be any other way. I don't want to live my life by the "Keep Calm" memes floating around the interwebs, I want to go full pelt and smash life in the face (in an intellectually appropriate way of course). I will do well at my job, complete challenging studies, be a loving husband and an engaged Dad who plays with his kids all the time.
My magic allows this, it enhances my awesome life and gives me energy, insight and opportunities to live it the way I want to. I am grateful to it, my teachers and those I interact with both in the physical and not.
I am content. I am powerful. I am at peace.
Pax
MvdV
I am married with three kids (two under 6), I work full time in education for which I commute 50km a day (approximately for 2 hours a day, I love traffic), with frequent after hours responsibilities with students and staff. I train 3 times a week in the Martial Arts, twice a week in the gym pushing iron and I am an active Freemason with membership in several orders. To round it off, I am also studying a Postgraduate Theological qualification at University.
Looking at that I am amazed that I even got one of my magical goals completed, let alone starting to create the system I have been working on over the last 18 months. The system itself is going okay and is focused on using experiences from outside of 'magic', harnessing it, and using it at a later date in a ritual/magical manner. For example, attending a Masonic ritual and using the energy or intent of the ritual after the event in a more focused way in a magical ritual to achieve my goals.
But my post today is not about my system. Or magic per say.
It is about being intense and getting the most out of life as you humanly can.
I have a lot of commitments, my wife and I often joke about how we have to cheat on our other commitments to spend time together, our discussions about our days are fleeting things, captured in the time between going to bed and the end of a cup of Milo after tucking in the kids/finishing working. We go out to dinner with each other now and then and often go for walks and do other things together. It's not a totally absent relationship, but our lives are balanced against our other interests.
I love it. I wouldn't want my life to be any other way. I don't want to live my life by the "Keep Calm" memes floating around the interwebs, I want to go full pelt and smash life in the face (in an intellectually appropriate way of course). I will do well at my job, complete challenging studies, be a loving husband and an engaged Dad who plays with his kids all the time.
My magic allows this, it enhances my awesome life and gives me energy, insight and opportunities to live it the way I want to. I am grateful to it, my teachers and those I interact with both in the physical and not.
I am content. I am powerful. I am at peace.
Pax
MvdV
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Lent and the damage done
Well the Lenten season is here, Ash Wednesday and onwards to the glory of Easter reminds us of the suffering of Christ in the desert and brings to the front of our minds the 'transgressions' and lost opportunities to better ourselves in the past 12 months. I for one look forward to Lent. It is a hungry time which serves to sharpen the senses. There is nothing like an empty stomach to bring the important things in life to focus.
Fasting is a regular practice of mine and is an important part of my spiritual regime, it makes the time I invest in something when I am fasting important. I don't have as much energy or attention span so it needs to count, I can't wast my time with irrelevant activities.
Fasting also brings meals with family into a greater prominence. Breaking bread with the family at the main meal of the day increases the joy and attention given to the meal; I value what I have missed which increases my enjoyment of that time.
Magically I work towards creating a 40 day cycle of prayer and effort towards a goal. I have identified my goal and am building it around a rosary based cycle this year. we'll see how it goes.
Lent is a time to value that which you may take for granted, starve yourself of it and appreciate it when you get it back. Focus on the absence of that thing in your life and find how you feel without it.
Pax,
MvdV
Fasting is a regular practice of mine and is an important part of my spiritual regime, it makes the time I invest in something when I am fasting important. I don't have as much energy or attention span so it needs to count, I can't wast my time with irrelevant activities.
Fasting also brings meals with family into a greater prominence. Breaking bread with the family at the main meal of the day increases the joy and attention given to the meal; I value what I have missed which increases my enjoyment of that time.
Magically I work towards creating a 40 day cycle of prayer and effort towards a goal. I have identified my goal and am building it around a rosary based cycle this year. we'll see how it goes.
Lent is a time to value that which you may take for granted, starve yourself of it and appreciate it when you get it back. Focus on the absence of that thing in your life and find how you feel without it.
Pax,
MvdV
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Effing the Ineffable...
I came across the description in the title in the context of working in the Western Mystery tradition from the Masonic Society forum a while back and it pretty much sums up one of the major issues of working with the Mysteries.
The difficulty of transmitting the knowledge and experiences you have to others in a meaningful way.
There has been a fantastic outpouring in the past of artistic work around religious, spiritual and related experiences which in my opinion is one of the best ways of transmitting experience. In the Masonic context, the Tracing Boards, the Lectures on the Tracing Boards, the Lodge Room and the Rituals themselves outline the experiences that are Freemasonry in artistic and symbolic ways. The fact that the Lodge is not complete without some of these symbols being present is an indication to the importance of symbols to the practice of our Esoteric art.
My magic, as well as that of many traditions, relies on the ability to communicate with things that are beyond our understanding. God, Gods, Goddesses, Spirits, Platonic Bodies, the list goes on. We cannot begin to comprehend what they want from us. We may think we know, but we really cannot understand them. It is impossible for a Butterfly to understand an Eagle, or a Zebra, but we keep fooling ourselves as to our level of knowledge of what the powers we interact with want. We may think we know what we want from them, but the chances are what we get is what we need, not what we want. I have been crushed by the powers that be, only to be more than I was before, but unable to really explain it or articulate the occurrence to others. This is where the need for strong communication is required and the art of our science comes into play.
I undertook art at High School as part of my entry to University and I have not lost my appreciation of how art changes and influences us subconsciously. Perhaps this is the only way to impart true understanding of what we do in the Esoteric, by subtly interacting with images and themes at a level beyond the rational mind. I use the Masonic Symbols mainly and incorporate the structure of the lodge in my ritual work. This is because I am familiar with the symbols and it is my personal belief/culture/life system which I connect with. Use yours.
I am starting a new project built on this appreciation of symbolism that represents a more practical aspect of my magic. We'll see how it goes and hopefully I get some good results. Meanwhile, I encourage you to visualise what you have experienced and put it into the physical world (obviously symbolically, it would take years to fully represent some experiences) to impact with your everyday life.
Pax,
MvdV
The difficulty of transmitting the knowledge and experiences you have to others in a meaningful way.
There has been a fantastic outpouring in the past of artistic work around religious, spiritual and related experiences which in my opinion is one of the best ways of transmitting experience. In the Masonic context, the Tracing Boards, the Lectures on the Tracing Boards, the Lodge Room and the Rituals themselves outline the experiences that are Freemasonry in artistic and symbolic ways. The fact that the Lodge is not complete without some of these symbols being present is an indication to the importance of symbols to the practice of our Esoteric art.
My magic, as well as that of many traditions, relies on the ability to communicate with things that are beyond our understanding. God, Gods, Goddesses, Spirits, Platonic Bodies, the list goes on. We cannot begin to comprehend what they want from us. We may think we know, but we really cannot understand them. It is impossible for a Butterfly to understand an Eagle, or a Zebra, but we keep fooling ourselves as to our level of knowledge of what the powers we interact with want. We may think we know what we want from them, but the chances are what we get is what we need, not what we want. I have been crushed by the powers that be, only to be more than I was before, but unable to really explain it or articulate the occurrence to others. This is where the need for strong communication is required and the art of our science comes into play.
I undertook art at High School as part of my entry to University and I have not lost my appreciation of how art changes and influences us subconsciously. Perhaps this is the only way to impart true understanding of what we do in the Esoteric, by subtly interacting with images and themes at a level beyond the rational mind. I use the Masonic Symbols mainly and incorporate the structure of the lodge in my ritual work. This is because I am familiar with the symbols and it is my personal belief/culture/life system which I connect with. Use yours.
I am starting a new project built on this appreciation of symbolism that represents a more practical aspect of my magic. We'll see how it goes and hopefully I get some good results. Meanwhile, I encourage you to visualise what you have experienced and put it into the physical world (obviously symbolically, it would take years to fully represent some experiences) to impact with your everyday life.
Pax,
MvdV
Sunday, November 11, 2012
That which is in the heart of my hearts...
This week, one of my colleagues at the school where I work gave a devotion about prayer. Now, prayer is a funny thing, it is many things to many people and is one of the things that is encouraged by most religions as something that is a worthwhile way to spend our time.
My colleague focused on the idea that prayer can be a quick commune with the divine and that God will know what we want before we know it ourselves. He used a quote from Jesus that advises on how to pray, right before Jesus gives his apostles the Lord's Prayer, Matthew 6: 7. My colleague only focused on verse seven which talks about the Pagans babbling who sought to be heard with their long communication. My colleague was trying to encourage the students to even spend a small moment thinking about their relationship with God, he emphasised that they didn't have to be eloquent of a dissertation, just their heartfelt attention to God.
I personally would focus on the six verses before verse seven, that condem those who attempt to impress everyone with their piety, praying on street corners and the synagogues to be seen by men. Jesus tells us to go into our homes, lock our doors, fall to our knees and in secret pray to God. Our prayer is to be the simple form of the Our Father.
Magically this is an indication of my personal practice, I don't claim to be powerful of have all of the answers, a fast track to power or anything like that. I also don't give much though to those who claim to. I do have some associates who are powerful, powerful people, but they wouldn't admit it to anyone. It's the Australia way I guess... I am however able to do rituals that allow me to interact with higher orders of consciousness and engage with the hidden power behind all of the world in a small way. I am happy with my work and using Masonic pattern and systems is where I find myself more often than not.
I attended the Grand Installation of the Grand Lodge of Western Australia of Free and Accepted Masons the other week, there was no real magic to be found in the ritual, nothing of substance bar the obligation of the Grand Master and his Deputy. It was an open evening with guests and even the Govenor of WA being present. I could feel the difference in the whole approach to the evening. I could not percieve the powers flowing through the ritual as it usually does for me.
I was not disappointed by this as it was a public event, on the street corner shouting loudly to the world. I had not expected magic and I was actually glad it was not present.
Pax
MvdV
My colleague focused on the idea that prayer can be a quick commune with the divine and that God will know what we want before we know it ourselves. He used a quote from Jesus that advises on how to pray, right before Jesus gives his apostles the Lord's Prayer, Matthew 6: 7. My colleague only focused on verse seven which talks about the Pagans babbling who sought to be heard with their long communication. My colleague was trying to encourage the students to even spend a small moment thinking about their relationship with God, he emphasised that they didn't have to be eloquent of a dissertation, just their heartfelt attention to God.
I personally would focus on the six verses before verse seven, that condem those who attempt to impress everyone with their piety, praying on street corners and the synagogues to be seen by men. Jesus tells us to go into our homes, lock our doors, fall to our knees and in secret pray to God. Our prayer is to be the simple form of the Our Father.
Magically this is an indication of my personal practice, I don't claim to be powerful of have all of the answers, a fast track to power or anything like that. I also don't give much though to those who claim to. I do have some associates who are powerful, powerful people, but they wouldn't admit it to anyone. It's the Australia way I guess... I am however able to do rituals that allow me to interact with higher orders of consciousness and engage with the hidden power behind all of the world in a small way. I am happy with my work and using Masonic pattern and systems is where I find myself more often than not.
I attended the Grand Installation of the Grand Lodge of Western Australia of Free and Accepted Masons the other week, there was no real magic to be found in the ritual, nothing of substance bar the obligation of the Grand Master and his Deputy. It was an open evening with guests and even the Govenor of WA being present. I could feel the difference in the whole approach to the evening. I could not percieve the powers flowing through the ritual as it usually does for me.
I was not disappointed by this as it was a public event, on the street corner shouting loudly to the world. I had not expected magic and I was actually glad it was not present.
Pax
MvdV
Monday, September 17, 2012
Masonry as a Beginners School of Esotericism
I mentioned in my first post that Freemasonry is an awful system to conduct magic.
It is however a fantastic system to train yourself in thinking and acting in an esoteric ways, which can lead to magical outcomes.
The initiate is given tools to see beyond that which is on the surface and is given an insight into tho possibilities that research, service to others and love of God can unlock. The use of symbolic language and the symbols of Freemasonry themselves give an invaluable tool for future esoteric exploration and tunes the Mason's mind to the possibilities of symbolic thinking. The use of a ritual space, ritual clothing and actions all give the Mason an insight into the possibilities around sacred space.
With the idea of Sacred Space in mind, the Masonic lodge structure and layout has informed Magical and Esoteric orders ever since they have been in existence in the modern age. The opening and closing of a lodge are particularly at the forefront of my thoughts when it comes to identifying links between Masonry and Magic.
The identification of individuals by a special name (their office in a Masonic Lodge, motto or magical name in a Magical Order), allocation of seating (NE corner the East etc) and the protection and opening of a sacred space by a set ritual (the Opening ritual etc), all of these are found in Magical and Masonic orders, but with different focuses.
Service is another key part of Masonic and Magical Orders, in Masonic orders it is impossible to advance without service to others; your Masonic Brothers, the poor and needy. The first office filled by a Mason moving through the levels of authority is that of Steward; this is a position that involves assisting the officers of the Lodge and service of food and drink at the meal following the meeting. This is an important idea for the new Brother to engage with. Many people find it hard to adjust their minds to the concept of putting others first and service leading to advancement. The highest office in a Freemasons Lodge is the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, who is the head officer, but also it's chief servant, he does most of the ritual work and is responsible for the running of the Lodge and ensuring it is viable.
The initiate, much like a new member of a magical order is required to learn certain lessons, study daily in the lessons of Freemasonry and explore the hidden mysteries of nature and science. The Magician does the same.
The focus of Masonry is on morality and virtue. Other associated orders can be considered to be more esoteric in focus, but the central lessons taught by interacting with Freemasonry allows the individual to be able to see a magical point of view more readily.
This reason is why many of the 'old masters of magic' may have supported Freemasonry as a Magical essential. It changes the way you see the world and interact with symbolism around you. If supports virtues that they praised; charity, faith, justice and other morals essential to being a good Magician.
There are many other correlations between Magic and Masonry and I encourage the true seekers of light to investigate them, but if you seek Magic in Masonry alone, you will be sorely disappointed. Use Masonry as a tool in your magical toolbox. It will support your studies in ways that may surprise you... In my personal opinion, Freemasonry is emphatically NOT a Magical order, but, it allows the individual who engages with its mysteries to develop an esoteric way of thinking.
There is more to this relationship but I won't give it all away...
Pax
MvdV
It is however a fantastic system to train yourself in thinking and acting in an esoteric ways, which can lead to magical outcomes.
The initiate is given tools to see beyond that which is on the surface and is given an insight into tho possibilities that research, service to others and love of God can unlock. The use of symbolic language and the symbols of Freemasonry themselves give an invaluable tool for future esoteric exploration and tunes the Mason's mind to the possibilities of symbolic thinking. The use of a ritual space, ritual clothing and actions all give the Mason an insight into the possibilities around sacred space.
With the idea of Sacred Space in mind, the Masonic lodge structure and layout has informed Magical and Esoteric orders ever since they have been in existence in the modern age. The opening and closing of a lodge are particularly at the forefront of my thoughts when it comes to identifying links between Masonry and Magic.
The identification of individuals by a special name (their office in a Masonic Lodge, motto or magical name in a Magical Order), allocation of seating (NE corner the East etc) and the protection and opening of a sacred space by a set ritual (the Opening ritual etc), all of these are found in Magical and Masonic orders, but with different focuses.
Service is another key part of Masonic and Magical Orders, in Masonic orders it is impossible to advance without service to others; your Masonic Brothers, the poor and needy. The first office filled by a Mason moving through the levels of authority is that of Steward; this is a position that involves assisting the officers of the Lodge and service of food and drink at the meal following the meeting. This is an important idea for the new Brother to engage with. Many people find it hard to adjust their minds to the concept of putting others first and service leading to advancement. The highest office in a Freemasons Lodge is the Worshipful Master of the Lodge, who is the head officer, but also it's chief servant, he does most of the ritual work and is responsible for the running of the Lodge and ensuring it is viable.
The initiate, much like a new member of a magical order is required to learn certain lessons, study daily in the lessons of Freemasonry and explore the hidden mysteries of nature and science. The Magician does the same.
The focus of Masonry is on morality and virtue. Other associated orders can be considered to be more esoteric in focus, but the central lessons taught by interacting with Freemasonry allows the individual to be able to see a magical point of view more readily.
This reason is why many of the 'old masters of magic' may have supported Freemasonry as a Magical essential. It changes the way you see the world and interact with symbolism around you. If supports virtues that they praised; charity, faith, justice and other morals essential to being a good Magician.
There are many other correlations between Magic and Masonry and I encourage the true seekers of light to investigate them, but if you seek Magic in Masonry alone, you will be sorely disappointed. Use Masonry as a tool in your magical toolbox. It will support your studies in ways that may surprise you... In my personal opinion, Freemasonry is emphatically NOT a Magical order, but, it allows the individual who engages with its mysteries to develop an esoteric way of thinking.
There is more to this relationship but I won't give it all away...
Pax
MvdV
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