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OCCULT SCIENCES – MEANING AND HISTORICAL INTERPRETATION

Occult Sciences - Meaning and Historical Interpretation

The occult is a category of esoteric and supernatural beliefs and practices, encompassing phenomena involving a ‘hidden’ or ‘secret’ agency, such as magic and mysticism.

It can also refer to paranormal ideas such as extra-sensory perception and parapsychology.

The Occult, from the Latin word occultus, meaning “clandestine”, “hidden”, “secret”, is defined as “knowledge of the hidden”.

In common usage, occult refers to “knowledge of the paranormal”, as opposed to “knowledge of the measurable”, usually referred to as science. The words esoteric and arcane are sometimes used to describe the occult, although they do not have the same meaning.

The term “occult sciences” is often used in a broad and sometimes vague way, and the practices and beliefs associated with it can vary widely, often concerned with knowledge that is considered beyond the scope of mainstream science or common understanding.

It was used in 16th-century Europe to refer to astrology, alchemy, and natural magic, although the concept is present all over the world since immemorial times.

The term “occultism” emerged in 19th-century France and became associated with various esoteric groups and traditions.

It generally refers to a collection of practices and beliefs that explore hidden knowledge, unseen forces and dimensions, with the three major branches traditionally being alchemy, astrology and magic.

While these sciences have long been shrouded in secrecy, they have played a profound role in shaping philosophical thought, mystical practices, and even early scientific inquiry.

Often misunderstood or dismissed as superstition, these sciences have played a significant role in human history, blending philosophy and practical wisdom.

Many occult practices are rooted in esoteric traditions, which are characterized by their focus on inner knowledge and understanding.

The 3 Main Occult Sciences:

Alchemy: The practice of transforming base metals into gold and seeking the elixir of life.

Astrology: The study of the influence of celestial bodies on human affairs and events.

Natural Magic (Magia Naturalis): The use of rituals, incantations and practices to influence events or achieve specific outcomes, harnessing the powers of nature.

Other branches of Occult sciences are:

Numerology: the belief in an occult, divine or mystical relationship between a number and one or more coinciding events.

Divination: the practice of seeking knowledge or predicting the future through various methods, such as cartomancy, scrying or palmistry.

Spiritualism: the belief in communication with the spirits of the dead.

Witchcraft: the practice of using magic, often with a focus on nature and healing.

Hermeticism: a system that emphasizes the importance of knowledge and wisdom, often associated with ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions.

Kabbalah: a Jewish mystical tradition that explores the hidden nature of the divine and the universe.

Let’s explore these concepts in detail:

1. Alchemy: The Sacred Art of Transformation

Alchemy is one of the oldest and most profound occult sciences, rooted in ancient Egypt, Greece, India and later flourishing in the Islamic Golden Age and medieval Europe. Alchemists sought to transform base metals into gold and discover the philosopher’s stone, a legendary substance believed to grant immortality.

It carried deep symbolic meanings tied to personal transformation, enlightenment and inner purification. Figures such as Paracelsus and Nicholas Flamel contributed heavily to this field, blending chemistry with mysticism.

The alchemical process mirrors the stages of inner growth: calcination (breaking down ego), dissolution (facing the unconscious), coagulation (integration of opposites).

While modern science emerged from alchemy’s experimental methods, its symbolic depth remains relevant for seekers of self-realization.

2. Astrology: Mapping the Cosmic Blueprint

Astrology traces its origins to Babylonian star charts and Jyotish Vedic Astrology, and gained prominence mostly in Mediterranean and Asian cultures.

By observing celestial bodies and their movements, astrologers believed they could predict events, understand personality traits, and guide decision-making.

The zodiac system, planetary alignments, and horoscopes are some of the enduring legacies of astrology.

Modern astrology has evolved to include psychological insights, often used for self-reflection and guidance.

3. Natural Magic (Magia Naturalis):

Natural magic deals with natural forces directly, as opposed to ceremonial magic which deals with the summoning of spirits. Natural magic makes use of physical substances from the natural world, such as stones or herbs.

It includes disciplines that we would today consider fields of natural science, such as chemistry and botany.

Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa discusses natural magic in his Three Books of Occult Philosophy (1533), where he calls it “nothing else but the highest power of natural sciences”.

Magia Naturalis (in English, Natural Magic) is a work of popular science by Giambattista della Porta first published in Naples in 1558.

Its twenty books include observations upon geology, optics, medicines, poisons, cooking, metallurgy, magnetism, cosmetics, perfumes, gunpowder and invisible writing.

Other branches are:

Numerology: The Language and Power of Numbers

Numerology is the study of numbers and their mystical significance. It suggests that numbers hold vibrational frequencies that influence life patterns, character traits, and future events. Each number is believed to have symbolic meaning, with calculations such as life path numbers or destiny numbers serving as tools for insight and guidance.

For example, the number 1 signifies independence and leadership, while 7 embodies introspection and wisdom.

Divination: The Art of Revelation and Seeking Hidden Truths

Divination is a broad category encompassing methods like tarot reading, scrying, I Ching, and runes. Practitioners use symbolic tools and intuition to uncover hidden truths or foresee potential outcomes. Tarot, in particular, has grown in popularity due to its rich imagery and capacity to offer revelations.

Each method relies on symbolic language that taps into the subconscious, offering intuitive guidance.

In Hebrew, “Nachash” means “serpent” or “snake”, and is associated with divination, and is also used to describe the serpent in the Garden of Eden.

Spiritualism

Spiritualism was popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, according to which an individual’s awareness persists after death and may be contacted by the living.

The afterlife, or “spirit world”, is seen by spiritualists not as a static place, but as one in which spirits continue to interact and evolve.

These two beliefs—that contact with spirits is possible, and that spirits are more advanced than humans—lead spiritualists to believe that spirits are capable of advising the living on moral and ethical issues and the nature of God.

Witchcraft

Witchcraft is the use of alleged supernatural powers or magic by a person called a witch.

Traditionally, “witchcraft” means the use of magic to inflict harm or misfortune on others, and this remains the most common and widespread meaning.

Many indigenous belief systems that include the concept of witchcraft likewise define witches as malevolent, and seek healers (such as medicine people and witch doctors) to ward-off and undo bewitchment.

The reality is that there are “white witches”, practitioners who focus on benevolent magic, using their abilities for healing, protection, and positive energy, and “black witches”, who are associated with harmful magic.

Hermeticism

Hermeticism is a philosophical and religious tradition based on the writings attributed to the legendary figure of Hermes Trismegistus, encompassing occultism, magic, and a search for ancient wisdom, with roots in ancient Greek and Egyptian traditions and influential during the Renaissance. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of the universe and the potential for human growth through understanding and interacting with natural laws.

The Kabbalah: Sacred Mystical Wisdom

Stemming from Jewish esotericism, it is focused on the structure of the universe, the soul’s journey and the nature of God.

Kabbalistic teachings use sacred texts like the Zohar to unlock deeper mystical truths. The Tree of Life, a core symbol in Kabbalistic practice, maps out divine energies and paths of wisdom and enlightenment.

Zahir and Sufism

Ẓāhir is an Arabic term for what is external and manifest. Certain esoteric interpretations of Islam maintain that the Quran has an exoteric or apparent meaning, known as zahir, but also an underlying esoteric meaning, known as batin, which can be interpreted only by a figure of esoteric knowledge.

In Sufism, the actions of an individual are the zahir, and the intention in the heart is the batin. Zahir is the world of bodies whereas batin is the world of souls.

The zahir (exoteric) form and the batin (esoteric) essence co-exist, in that the zahir form is the manifestation of the batin essence. The zahir (outer form) without the batin (essence) is just like a mirage or an illusion.

Throughout history, these occult sciences have influenced art, literature, scientific thought and personal growth. Renaissance thinkers merged esoteric knowledge with scientific ideas.

These principles also shaped many influential occult societies.

They have endured for centuries because they speak to the universal human desire for meaning, transformation, and connection with unseen forces.

In modern times, the occult sciences have experienced a resurgence as people seek mystical meaning outside conventional frameworks.

Whether approached as symbolic tools for introspection or as genuine systems of exploration, these disciplines continue to captivate those drawn to the mysteries of existence.

By integrating these timeless practices into your life, you can create a deeply immersive experience that offers both mystical insight and practical wisdom.

While often shrouded in mystery, they reflect a timeless quest for deeper understanding, a journey that transcends the physical world and invites seekers to explore the unseen realms of consciousness and the self.

What do you think of Occult Sciences and what do they represent to you? Do you experiment with any of them? Let us know in the comment section, subscribe and share the post!!!

Also, check our website for consultations, tarot readings, exclusive videos, courses, occult related items and more!!!

Video version here:

Occult Sciences – Meaning and Historical Interpretation

Interesting sources, additional info, courses, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

Check our soundtrack here:
https://lennyblandino.bandcamp.com/track/fire-meditation-1

Websites:

https://www.alkemystica.com

https://www.lennyblandino.com

https://www.staciebronson.com/

Links and References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeticism

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_magic

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magia_Naturalis

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerology

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divination

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabbalah

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serpents_in_the_Bible

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zahir_(Islam)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritualism_(movement)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft

https://thonyc.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/the-demise-of-the-occult-sciences/

PICS:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermes_Trismegistus#/media/File:Hermes_mercurius_trismegistus_siena_cathedral.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermeticism#/media/File:HermesTrismegistusCauc.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Aurora_consurgens_zurich_044_f-21v-44_dragon-pot.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Al-Jaahith_-_African_Arab_Naturalist_-_Basra_-_al_jahiz.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Esoteric_Taijitu.svg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Joseph_Wright_of_Derby_The_Alchemist.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Raimundus_Lullus_alchemic_page.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Fotothek_df_tg_0006104_Theosophie_%5E_Alchemie_%5E_Judentum_%5E_Kabbala.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology#/media/File:Marcantonio_Raimondi_-_Two_Women_with_the_Signs_of_Libra_and_Scorpio.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology#/media/File:P._26_’The_Zodiac_Man’_a_diagram_of_a_human_body_and_astrological_symbols_with_instructions_explaining_the_importance_of_astrology_from_a_medical_perspective.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology#/media/File:Robert_Fludd’s_An_Astrologer_Casting_a_Horoscope_1617.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_astrology#/media/File:Beit_alfa01.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vintage_astrology_dark_blue.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:JYOTISHACHARYA_MUDIT_MISHRA.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Cornelius_Agrippa#/media/File:Portrait_of_Agrippa_Wellcome_L0000100.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%D0%9B%D0%B8%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%9A%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%B0%D0%BB%D0%B8%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0_2.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Botany#/media/File:Arabidopsis_thaliana_inflorescencias.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Botany#/media/File:Oryza_sativa_-_K%C3%B6hler%E2%80%93s_Medizinal-Pflanzen-232.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_element#/media/File:Leibniz_four_elements.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Numerology#/media/File:Agrippan_numerology_table.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divination#/media/File:Rhumsiki_crab_sorceror.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritualism_(movement)#/media/File:Spirit_rappings_coverpage_to_sheet_music_1853.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Witchcraft#/media/File:John_William_Waterhouse_-_Magic_Circle.JPG

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kabbalah#/media/File:Portae_Lucis_1516.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism#/media/File:Tomb_of_Abdul_Qadir_Jilani,_Baghdad.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sufism#/media/File:Six_Sufi_masters.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_symbols#/media/File:Green_lion_consuming_the_sun.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_symbols#/media/File:WLA_vanda_Vishnu_as_the_Cosmic_Man.jpg

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_occult_symbols#/media/File:Squaring_the_circle.jpg

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-books-library-magic-8404320

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-priest-occult-religion-8644753

https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-trial-witch-fantasy-8649795

https://pixabay.com/photos/crystal-ball-fortune-telling-ball-8392380

https://pixabay.com/photos/fortune-telling-tarot-to-come-up-4896472

https://pixabay.com/photos/mural-painting-wall-painting-art-2796296

https://pixabay.com/photos/girl-dress-building-ruins-5477610

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alchemy#/media/File:Splendor_Solis_22_sun_rising_over_city.jpg

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THE UNDERWORLD – GATEWAY TO SUBTERRANEAN REALMS AND HIDDEN KNOWLEDGE

The Underworld - Gateway to Subterranean Realms and Hidden Knowledge

The underworld, also known as the netherworld or hell, is the supernatural world of the dead in various traditions and myths, located below the world of the living.

It has long been portrayed as a realm of death and darkness, but within esoteric and occult paths, it is seen as a place of transformation, wisdom, and initiation. A hidden realm where souls travel after death, where deities reign, and where profound wisdom can be gained, symbolizing death, rebirth and the unknown.

While often associated with fear and punishment, it also represents inner growth, and the journey of the soul toward enlightenment.

“There is nothing more powerful than this attraction toward the abyss.” Jules Verne, JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE EARTH

Chthonic is the adjective for things of the underworld.

The terms “chthonic” and “chthonian” are derived from the Ancient Greek word (khthṓn) meaning “earth” or “soil”.

The Greek adjective (khthónios) means “in or beneath the earth” and is a descriptive word for things relating to the underworld.

In Greek mythology, deities referred to as chthonic or chthonian were gods or spirits who inhabited the underworld or existed in or under the earth, and were typically associated with death or fertility, such as Hermes, Demeter, and Zeus.

Gods that are related to agriculture are also considered to have chthonic associations as planting and growing take place, in part, under the earth.

Offerings were central to the worship of both chthonic and ouranic gods, though the specifics of these rituals differed.

Ouranic refers to deities that are celestial or above the earth.

People with high social status, like the Pharaohs, were dressed and equipped in order to better navigate the deeper realms.

The concept of an underworld is found in almost every civilization and “may be as old as humanity itself”. Common features of underworld myths are accounts of people making journeys below ground, often for some heroic purpose.

A number of mythologies incorporate the concept of the soul of the deceased making its own journey to the underworld, with the dead needing to be taken across a defining obstacle such as a lake or a river to reach this destination.

The Underworld is present in nearly every ancient civilization, each with its unique interpretation.

Greek and Roman Mythology: The Underworld, ruled by Hades (Pluto in Roman mythology), is a vast domain where souls are judged and assigned to different regions: Elysium for the virtuous, the Asphodel Meadows for ordinary souls, and Tartarus for the damned. It is guarded by Cerberus, the three-headed hound, and features rivers such as the Styx, which separates the world of the living from the dead.

Egyptian Duat: The ancient Egyptians believed in the Duat, a shadowy realm where souls underwent judgment before Osiris. The weighing of the heart against the feather of Ma’at determined one’s fate: eternal peace in Aaru or annihilation by the devourer Ammit.

Norse Helheim: In Norse mythology, Helheim is the realm of the dead who did not die in battle. Ruled by the goddess Hel, it is often described as cold and misty, a stark contrast to Valhalla, the hall of warriors.

The world tree, is a motif present in several religions and mythologies, particularly Indo-European, Siberian, and Native American.

It is represented as a colossal tree which supports the worlds above, thereby connecting the heavens, the terrestrial world, and, through its roots, the underworld. The most famous is probably Yggdrasil in Norse mythology.

“No one has ever known or will ever know the vastness of the roots of that ancient tree.” Odin describing the World-Tree Yggrdrasil, from the ELDER EDDA

Hindu Patala and Naraka: Hindu cosmology describes Patala as the subterranean realms inhabited by serpentine beings called Nagas, while Naraka serves as a place of purification for souls who must atone for their karma before reincarnation. Patala “that which is below the feet”, denotes the subterranean realms of the universe – which are located under the earthly dimension.

It is described as more beautiful than Svarga (subtle dimensions, loosely translated as heaven). Patala is described as filled with splendid jewels, beautiful groves and lakes.

Nagas are believed to live in the lowest realm of Patala, called Naga-loka.

In the Hebrew Bible, Sheol is the underworld place of stillness and darkness which lies after death.

It is described as a place where both the righteous and the unrighteous dead go, regardless of their moral choices in life.

Beyond the literal interpretation, many traditions view the Underworld as a space of transformation. Shamans, mystics, and initiates often undergo symbolic journeys into the Underworld, confronting their ego, shadows, and inner fears.

This journey mirrors psychological and alchemical processes of death and rebirth, representing a deep metamorphosis of the soul.

Occult traditions often connect the Underworld with hidden knowledge, the subconscious, and contact with otherworldly energies.

Many mystery schools teach that confronting one’s fears and embracing the darkness leads to enlightenment.

The Underworld is not merely a place of death but a realm of transition, wisdom, and inner growth.

Whether viewed as a literal afterlife, a metaphorical descent into the subconscious, or a sacred path of initiation, it remains a profound and universal symbol of the human experience.

By embracing the lessons of the Underworld, one can emerge renewed, transformed, and awakened.

The Underworld often symbolizes the deep layers of the subconscious mind. It is the place where fears, suppressed emotions, and ancestral memories reside. Occultists often describe it as a domain beyond the material world, existing parallel to physical reality but accessible only through dreams, trance, or ritual.

Beyond the myths of punishment and suffering, it is a dimension of hidden knowledge, ruled by powerful deities and beings, where the adept can undergo deep transformation. This perspective aligns with alchemical transmutation, the descent of the mystic into their own subconscious, and the journey of the soul through the mysteries of existence.

The Hero’s Journey: A descent into darkness or lands below, is a crucial phase where the hero must face trials before emerging enlightened. This motif appears in myths such as Orpheus’ descent into Hades, Dante’s Inferno, and the trials of the Egyptian Book of the Dead.

The Qliphoth in the Kabbalah: In contrast to the Tree of Life, which represents divine order, the Qliphoth are the “shells” or inverse aspects of creation, linked to the Underworld. Working with the Qliphoth involves confronting one’s inner self and breaking through personal limitations to reach higher states of consciousness.

Underworld Gods as Initiators of Wisdom: In many esoteric traditions, deities of the Underworld are not simply rulers of the dead but also guardians of occult wisdom and initiators of those who seek hidden truths.

Hecate, the Queen of the Crossroads: In Hellenistic magic, Hecate rules over the liminal spaces between worlds. As the goddess of the Underworld and magic, she grants knowledge to those who dare to walk between life and death.

Pluto/Hades as the Lord of Wealth: The Roman god Pluto, while feared, was also associated with the hidden treasures beneath the earth. Esoterically, the Underworld is where mystical riches are found, accessible only to those who master the descent.

Osiris, the Alchemical King: Osiris, the Egyptian God of the Dead, represents the eternal cycle of death and rebirth. His myth echoes alchemical transformation, where dissolution (nigredo) precedes resurrection (rubedo).

The Alchemical Descent: Alchemy, the mystical art of transmutation, mirrors the Underworld journey in its process. The nigredo stage, often depicted as death, decay, and darkness, represents the destruction of the ego and material attachments before enlightenment, where the ego is dissolved before achieving purification. This mirrors the Underworld as a space where the old self must die for the new self to emerge.

In this stage the adept faces their own illusions and attachments. Inner “darkness” emerge, forcing confrontation with fears. This darkness must be embraced before true higher gold (illumination) can be achieved. The Underworld, in this sense, is not a place to be feared but a necessary phase in mystical evolution.

Underworld Initiations and Rituals in the Occult: Throughout history, mystery schools and occult traditions have included Underworld-related initiations to symbolize death, rebirth, and transformation.

The Eleusinian Mysteries: These ancient Greek rites were centered around Demeter and Persephone, symbolizing the descent into darkness and the return to light, echoing the initiatory path.

Shamanic Underworld Journeys: Many indigenous traditions describe shamans traveling to the Underworld to retrieve lost souls, gain wisdom from spirits, and heal the living.

Dissolution of the False Self: The Underworld strips away illusions, forcing an encounter with the raw self.

Reintegration and Rebirth: Like the Phoenix rising from the ashes, those who complete the journey return renewed.

The Attainment of Hidden Wisdom: True power comes from understanding the mysteries of both light and shadow.

    The Underworld is not simply a place of fear or punishment, it is an essential part of the mystical path. Whether through ancient deities, alchemical transformation, or shamanic initiation, it remains a realm of deep wisdom. Those who dare to explore its mysteries, embracing the descent into darkness, often emerge enlightened, empowered, and forever changed.

    While these concepts may seem unreal or just myths, they may very well be real if we consider all the hidden knowledge that is still to be uncovered. Also, these principles can be applied in our daily life in a practical way, reaching for the best version of ourselves, whichever path we are walking on.

    So, what do you think of The Underworld? What does it represent to you, and how can we use this knowledge in our daily lives, in a practical way? Let us know in the comment section, subscribe for more and share the post!!!

    Also check our website for consultations, tarot readings, exclusive videos, courses, occult related items and more!!!

    Video version here:

    The Underworld – A Gateway to Subterranean Realms and Hidden Knowledge

    Interesting sources, additional info, courses, images, credits, attributions and other points of views here:

    Balancing and Healing the Chakras through Yoga https://www.udemy.com/course/balancing-and-healing-the-chakras-through-yoga/?referralCode=12C81A148616B419AA06

    Mudras to Balance and Harmonize your Chakras and Energy Body https://www.udemy.com/course/mudras-to-balance-and-harmonize-your-energy-body/?referralCode=1A275C6E67E05E8C8130

    Elemental Energy for Success and Well Being https://www.udemy.com/course/elemental-energy-for-success-and-well-being/?referralCode=A680413E03BEAD96E744

    Book a Tarot reading here: https://www.suryaholistictarot.com/book-a-reading/

    Check our soundtrack here:
    https://lennyblandino.bandcamp.com/track/fire-meditation-1

    Websites:

    https://www.alkemystica.com

    https://www.lennyblandino.com

    https://www.staciebronson.com/

    Links and References:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Underworld

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Underworld

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chthonic_deities

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patala

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cryptozoology

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hades

    https://web.archive.org/web/20050907124516/http://home.earthlink.net/~mottimorph/subterraneamiscellania.html

    https://web.archive.org/web/20051207034127/http://home.earthlink.net/~mottimorph/Quotes_Misc.html

    PICS:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Underworld#/media/File:Jan_Brueghel_the_Younger_-_Juno_in_the_Underworld,_1626-1630.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:John_Martin_002.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_views_on_Hades#/media/File:Meister_des_Codex_Aureus_Epternacensis_001.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_views_on_Hades#/media/File:Georgin_Fran%C3%A7ois,_The_3_Roads_to_Eternity,_1825_Cornell_CUL_PJM_1040_01.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duat#/media/File:The_judgement_of_the_dead_in_the_presence_of_Osiris.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duat#/media/File:Book_of_Gates_Barque_of_Ra_cropped.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehenna#/media/File:Mount_Zion_and_the_Hinnom_Valley_in_Hierusalem_-_Deshayes_Louis_Baron_De_Courmenin_-_1631_(cropped).jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hades#/media/File:Cumae.gif

    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9b/The_Court_of_Yama%2C_God_of_Death%2C_circa_1800.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_(Buddhism)#/media/File:Ngaye_(Naraka)_in_Burmese_art.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niflheim#/media/File:WHEATON(1844)_The_Cosmos_in_the_Norse_mythology.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orcus#/media/File:Bomarzo2013parco21.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orcus#/media/File:Master_of_the_Aeneid_Legend_-_The_Descent_of_Aeneas_into_Hell_-_Walters_44205.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patala#/media/File:Patala_Shesha.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patala#/media/File:Naga182.JPG

    https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Sheol#/media/File:Early_Hebrew_Conception_of_the_Universe.svg

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Greek_underworld#/media/File:Heintz,_Joseph_(II)_%E2%80%94_Hades’_Ankunft_am_Tartaros.jpg

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Greek_underworld#/media/File:Adolf_Hiremy-Hirschl,_Die_Seelen_des_Acheron.jpg

    https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Yomi-no-kuni#/media/File:Green_willow_and_other_Japanese_fairy_tales_(1910)_(14593788578).jpg/2

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_tree#/media/File:Yggdrasil.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hades#/media/File:Detail_of_Pluto-Serapis,_Statue_group_of_Persephone_(as_Isis)_and_Pluto_(as_Serapis),_from_the_Sanctuary_of_the_Egyptian_Gods_at_Gortyna,_mid-2nd_century_AD,_Heraklion_Archaeological_Museum_(30305313721).jpg

    https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naraka_(buddismo)#/media/File:Buddhist_hell.jpg

    https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inferno_(Divina_Commedia)#/media/File:Michelangelo_Caetani_Cross_Section_of_Hell_1855_Cornell_CUL_PJM_1071_04.jpg

    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c3/Tree_of_Life%2C_Medieval.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hecate#/media/File:H%C3%A9cate_-_Mallarm%C3%A9.png

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pluto_(mythology)#/media/File:Locri_Pinax_Of_Persephone_And_Hades.jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osiris#/media/File:Osiris-nepra.jpg

    https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigredo#/media/File:Philosophia_Reformata_Emblem_9_-_Putrefactio..jpg

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleusinian_Mysteries#/media/File:Eleusinian_hydria_Antikensammlung_Berlin_1984.46_n2.jpg

    https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/36/Witsen%27s_Shaman.JPG

    https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fenice#/media/File:Phoenix_detail_from_Aberdeen_Bestiary.jpg

    https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-hades-deity-underworld-8926649

    https://pixabay.com/illustrations/ai-generated-lightning-gates-7706295

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    What is Esoteric Pragmatism? (New Counter Theory)

    Esotericism is about secret knowledge for a small group of people.

    Esotericism also describes mystical, practical or occult points of view.

    Esotericism studies Gnosticism, Yoga, Alchemy, Magic, Spiritualism, Hypnosis, Astrology, Meditation, Mysticism, and Occultism.

    The concept of the “esoteric” originated in antiquity with the coining of the Ancient Greek adjective esôterikós which means (“belonging to an inner circle”).

    Sometimes this is referred to as “inner traditions” concerned with a “UNIVERSAL and spiritual dimension of reality, as opposed to external OR (‘exoteric’) religious institutions and dogmatic systems of established religions.”

    There are many variants of a worldwide Esotericism at the heart of all world religions and cultures, reflecting a hidden esoteric reality.

    This use is closest to the original meaning of the word in late antiquity, where it applied to secret spiritual teachings that were reserved for a specific elite and hidden from the masses.

    However I personally think Western or Eastern in this case does not mean much, since in my opinion is better to refer to a worldwide pool of knowledge.

    This also relates in my opinion to the belief of a once Pangea or united earth, GEA meaning EARTH, the word Geography comes from there for example.

    Therefore, PANGEA meaning the landmasses of Earth that were once all connected and not divided as it is officially established nowadays, so an all encompassing and land-wide general and accepted knowledge is likely probable.

    There are obviously many theories about that so I always encourage you to do your own research and take responsibility for what you believe somehow.

    I am personally more inclined towards a Syncretic world view, in other words, take the best from whatever source you believe makes sense and discard what doesn’t.

    Still, TRUTH would be subjective so I personally take everything with a grain of salt and always let room for being wrong and keep searching.

    I came up with the term ESOTERIC PRAGMATISM OR PRAGMATIC ESOTERICISM, whatever may sound better or more appealing to you.

    In my view, all secret, unusual or less known teachings make sense, on this plane of existence, if applied to our daily life, whatever it may be.

    I don’t know of anyone else who invented this term so far, but if you do, please let me know and provide evidence.

    So, I suggest and promote a pragmatic approach to Esotericism or an Esoteric approach to Pragmatism, which can be used often interchangeably.

    In simple words, as I said before, occult, which means hidden, OR lesser known teachings, should provide some sorts of applicable knowledge and practical solutions to everyday life.

    According to the dictionary, Pragmatism means:

    “an approach that assesses the truth of meaning of theories or beliefs in terms of the success of their practical application. “

    Now, obviously this word already exists so I am not really inventing anything super new here, I’m just combining these 2 words.

    The definition I just read implies that somehow the practical application of such theories should be successful, although it’s always debatable what success means for various people, so let’s say, if something helps you to live a better life, then why not use it.

    Assuming that your intent is to live a holistic and freedom-focused life and not harm anyone. You should always be responsible for the use of your ideas in my opinion.

    In a system that recently is apparently working on making people less accountable for what they do, I believe it’s important to restore, if ever was present, a way of thinking that promotes personal responsibility.

    It’s a given though that such a thing would never be 100% reality, since we are all somehow interconnected, and share responsibilities. We can just do the best we can and create a system in which we want to live. Obviously, the freer the system the better, in my opinion.

    So how can Pragmatic Esotericism or Esoteric Pragmatism help?

    First of all, promoting and spreading any hidden, occult, ancient or future knowledge THAT has proven itself to help people live better lives in general.

    Believing time is cyclical and NOT linear, logic goes that past and future can share similar teachings and hold valid theories and solutions for modern life.

    So it goes without saying that in a system less than perfect, certain theories and teachings have been hidden from the masses, hence the term Esoteric, so as not to be ridiculed or left in the wrong hands.

    Maybe now is the time to bring any type of occult knowledge to light and let every person judge by themselves without a middle man, often in the form of an always present guru or spiritual teacher AS a knowledge keeper, unless such a messenger is really enlightened or genuine, which is often not the case.

    So I encourage you to dig deeper and let me know what you think in the comments below. Feel free to reach out to us if you have relevant info and thank you.

    Additional info:

    Watch the related Video here