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The Scarab Beetle: A Symbol of Mystery, Myth, and Magic

The Scarab Beetle - Mystery, Myth and Magic

Throughout history, certain creatures have captivated human imagination, inspiring myths, legends, and mystical beliefs. Among these creatures, the scarab beetle stands out as a symbol of profound significance in various cultures. Often associated with the underworld, rebirth, and transformation, the scarab beetle was closely associated with the sun god Ra and played a crucial role in the Egyptian belief system, particularly concerning magic and the underworld. In this exploration, we delve into the rich history and symbolic meanings of the scarab beetle, uncovering its profound influence on human culture and spirituality.

Ancient Egypt: The Divine Khepri

In the annals of human history, perhaps no civilization revered the scarab beetle more than ancient Egypt. Known as “Khepri” in Egyptian mythology, the scarab beetle was known for its unique life cycle and was deeply intertwined with creation and transformation.

Khepri (ḫprj) is derived from the Egyptian language verb ḫpr, meaning to “develop”, “come into being”, or “create The beetle’s life began as a humble larva, eggs which had been laid in dung and which emerge fully grown. In this way, the scarab beetle seems to have been created out of nothing.

This analogy of burrowing into the earth, resemble the sun sinking beneath the horizon. In this stage, Khepri was seen as representing the idea of death and the underworld. Egyptians believed that the sun god Ra traveled through the underworld during the night, only to reemerge at dawn, just as Khepri emerged from the earth.

Khepri was depicted as a giant scarab or a man with a scarab for a head. Just as the scarab beetle rolled the dung balls across the earth, Khepri rolled the newly born sun across the sky, symbolizing the sun’s daily rebirth.

Khepri was a solar deity and was often times seen as an aspect of Ra, along with another solar deity Atum. (A-toom) Khepri was the morning sun, Ra was the midday sun, and Atum was the sun in the evening.

The ancient Egyptians believed that the scarab beetle possessed the power of transformation and rebirth, mirroring the sun’s journey. This symbolism was applied to the deceased as well, as they were believed to undergo a similar journey in the afterlife.

Scarabs as Symbols of Good Luck

Scarabs are well known as being symbols of good luck. Scarab amulets were popular and worn by both the living and the deceased. Three types of scarabs, that seem to have been used in funerary practices were known as heart scarabs, pectoral scarabs and naturalistic scarabs. These scarabs were placed on the mummies to protect and guide the deceased’s soul safely through the underworld. The scarab’s significance in Egyptian funerary rites emphasized its role in the afterlife, where the dead would undergo a transformation much like the beetle’s metamorphosis from a lowly dung roller to an elegant, winged insect.

Commemorative scarabs were sometimes given as royal gifts or propaganda in support of Egyptian political purposes and had been found inscribed with royal names.

Egyptian scarabs were carried by traders into Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean to sell as good luck charms, so, Egyptians weren’t the only culture to ascribe great importance to the scarab beetle. In ancient Greece, the scarab was associated with the god Ares, symbolizing protection and good fortune. It was believed to have protective properties, warding off evil spirits and bringing good luck to its wearer.

Additionally, Sardinia had developed an industry for producing scarabs, which were then imported into ancient Rome, where they were often used as talismans and amulets, believing to possess powers of protection and healing. Rings made of scarab beetles were considered to be military symbols and used during battle. Many roman graves dated from 400 AD were found to have had artificial scarabs.

Medicine

Not only used for good luck, but also for healing, Some ancient papyrus documents even attest to the scarabs being used in traditional medicine. And in medieval Europe the beetle was used in folk medicine, often times extracting the Oil obtained from the larvae and being used as a cure for scratches and other wounds as well rheumatism and anemia.

Transformation and Resurrection

The scarab beetle’s association with transformation and resurrection is a common thread throughout its history. In many cultures, the scarab’s ability to roll balls of dung across the ground and then lay its eggs within them was seen as a metaphor for transformation. This lowly creature demonstrated the power of life emerging from death and decay.

In ancient China, the scarab symbolized the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. It was considered a representation of transformation and spiritual awakening.

Similarly, in some Native American cultures, the scarab’s presence was believed to herald positive change and transformation. Among the Hopi tribe, the scarab beetle was considered a symbol of endurance, as it could thrive in harsh desert conditions.

Scarabs in the Underworld

The underworld often played a significant role in scarab mythology. Similar to Egyptians, in the Mayan culture, scarabs were associated with the Sun God Kinich Ahau and were also linked to the underworld and death. It was considered a guardian spirit that could ward off evil forces and ensure safe passage to the afterlife. By Using, amulets and talismans on the deceased, or in the tombs, for protection and guidance.

Magical and Occult Significance

Scarabs are also featured prominently in the realm of the occult. Throughout history, these beetles have been used in various magical and mystical practices. They were often carved into amulets, inscribed with symbols and spells, and worn for protection or to invoke specific energies.

In Western esoteric traditions, scarabs have been associated with the concept of transformation and personal growth, as well as having the power to overcome obstacles. Spells and rituals involving scarab imagery are designed to help individuals break free from stagnation, achieve personal growth, and embrace change in their lives.

For this, Its symbolism is also sometimes present in alchemical texts, where it is associated with the transformation of base substances into gold, reflecting the alchemical goal of achieving spiritual enlightenment and perfection.

Modern Symbolism

In modern times and popular culture, the scarab beetle still holds symbolic significance, although it may not be as widely recognized or revered as it once was.

In music, We can see the rock band Journey, from the 80’s, used the scarab beetle as their main logo and in the cover art of the albums, including their greatest hits, departure and escape.

In literature, P. G. Wodehouse’s first Blandings novel – Something Fresh (1915) – involves the pilfering of a rare Egyptian scarab (a “Cheops of the Fourth Dynasty”) as a key plot device.

In film, we see In Stephen Sommers action adventure movie’ The Mummy (1999), the scarab is depicted as an ancient, deadly beetle, killing whatever or whoever it sees and eating it’s entire body, including the organs.

And for lovers of Tarot, there is Lo Scarabeo, the Italian Tarot card making company based out of Torino, Italy. Scarabeo being the Italian word for Scarab. Here, you can find tarot cards, oracle cards and more.

And in video games we see the scarab beetle in Tomb Raider, The last revelation from 1999, with Lara Croft being attacked throughout the game by deadly scarab beetles and also Scarabs being used as the monetary unit of planet Sauria (originally known as Dinosaur Planet) in the 2002 video game Star Fox Adventures.

In Conclusion

The scarab beetle’s mythological, historical, and occult significance is a testament to its enduring power as a symbol of transformation, rebirth, and protection. From ancient Egypt to distant cultures around the world, the scarab has been revered and respected for its connection to the cycles of life, death, and resurrection. Its mystical appeal persists even in the modern era, where it continues to inspire individuals seeking personal growth and transformation. The scarab beetle’s journey through human history is a reflection of the timeless fascination with the mysteries of life, death, and the forces that shape our existence.

What does The Scarab Beetle symbol represent for you? Let us know in the comments below, share the article…and come back for the next one!

Video version here:

The Scarab Beetle: A Symbol of Mystery, Myth, and Magic

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

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

https://ancientegyptonline.co.uk/khepri/

https://www.britannica.com/topic/scarab

https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1093&context=entomologypapers

https://pixabay.com/videos/beetle-insect-bug-flowers-scarab-65825/

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The Black Cat – Myth and Symbolism

The Black Cat

The black cat has long been associated in various cultures with mystery, the unknown and the hidden, linking it to so-called occult, esoteric or secretive practices, such as alchemy, tarot or witchcraft.

Like many other symbols in alchemy, the black cat carries a complex and multi-layered set of meanings that draw from various mythological, cultural, and esoteric sources. Its symbolism is multifaceted, often carrying both positive and negative connotations. In these contexts, the black cat is a powerful and enigmatic symbol that represents the mysterious, the hidden, and the transformative.

Alchemy

In alchemical tradition, the black cat is often associated with the concept of transformation, transmutation, and the mysterious journey of the alchemical process. This feline symbol is a fascinating representation of the duality of light and darkness, good and evil, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through inner and outer transformations.

One of the primary aspects of the black cat’s symbolism in alchemy is its connection to the idea of the prima materia or the initial substance from which all things are derived. In this context, the black cat represents the chaotic, undifferentiated state of matter and consciousness that is the starting point of the alchemical journey.

The black cat’s color is also a crucial element of symbolism in alchemy regarding negrido, or the initial, stage which represents putrefaction and decay, the breaking down of the old to make way for the new. The cat’s dark fur mirrors the darkness of the negrido, where the impurities of the soul are confronted and released. In this context, it embodies the chaotic and disordered state that must be overcome to achieve enlightenment and transmutation. It signifies the need to confront and embrace one’s inner darkness before true spiritual growth can occur. In this way, the cat’s presence is a reminder that transformation often begins in the darkest and most challenging moments of life.

The black color is also indicative of the enigma of the spirit’s return voyage back to the physical realm.

It embodies the darkness of the unknown and the unconscious, where the alchemist begins the work of transmutation. This phase is crucial for the alchemist to face their inner darkness and explore the hidden depths of their psyche, much like the cat’s nocturnal prowling in the shadows. The black cat, with it’s affinity for the night, becomes a guide through the darkness, helping the alchemist navigate to the uncharted territory of the mind.

Witchcraft

The cat’s association with witches and the supernatural also adds depth to its symbolism in alchemy and it’s mysteriousness. In medieval and Renaissance Europe, black cats were often linked to witches, sorcery and the occult, serving as a familiar to those who practice magic and mysticism.

It is considered a guardian of esoteric secrets and a creature that can move between the physical and spiritual realms. The cat’s ability to see in the dark is a metaphor for the insight and understanding required to navigate the mysteries of the unseen world. The cat’s presence is a symbol of a deep connection to the supernatural and a guide to the realms of the unknown. The cat’s mysterious and independent nature, along with its nocturnal habits, made it a convenient symbol for those practicing the hidden arts.

Esoteric and occult texts frequently depict the black cat as a symbol of the occult and hidden knowledge.

The duality of the black cat’s symbolism is reflective of the broader themes found in esoteric and occult traditions. It embodies the idea that light and dark, positive and negative, masculine and feminine are intertwined and necessary for spiritual growth and transformation. The black cat encourages indivduals to confront their fears, explore the hidden aspects of themselves, and seek knowledge and enlightenment in the depths of the unknown.

Philosophers Stone

In some alchemical traditions, the black cat is seen as a guardian of the philosopher’s stone, a mythical substance that represents the culmination of the alchemical work and the transmutation of base metals into gold, both literally and metaphorically. The cat’s role as a guardian underscores its connection to the secrets and mysteries of the alchemical process. Just as the cat is elusive and enigmatic, the philosopher’s stone is often described as something that can only be discovered by those who are truly ready for the profound transformation it represents.

The moon

The cat’s association with the moon is another layer of its symbolism in alchemy. The moon, with its cyclical phases, has long been associated with the feminine, intuition, and the realm of the unconscious. In alchemy, the moon is often connected to the silver aspect of the philosopher’s stone, which represents the receptive, nurturing, and reflective qualities of the soul. The cat’s affinity for the night and its connection to the moon further align it with the lunar and feminine aspects of alchemical symbolism.

In alchemical art and symbolism, the black cat can often be found in conjunction with other symbols, such as the ouroboros (a serpent eating its tail) and the alchemical flask. These combinations emphasize the cat’s role in the cyclical and transformative nature of alchemy. The cat may be depicted within the ouroboros, symbolizing the perpetual cycle of transformation, or near the alchemical flask, suggesting its involvement in the processes of purification and distillation.

Tarot

In tarot, we can see the black cat on the Queen of Wands, signifying the hidden and intuitive side of the Queen, but also implying that she has a more secretive and dark side to her. She has a “hidden” self, which cannot be easily accessed, albeit by her, and her secrets, both dark secrets of the human psyche, as well as hidden truths, are well guarded by the cat sitting at her feet.

Negative symbolism

The black cat is burdened by the stigma brought on by old superstitions, folklore and myths. It was often seen as a symbol of bad luck, especially in Western superstitions. This negative perception may be linked to its nocturnal nature, which is associated with the unknown and the fear of the dark.

Black cats were thought to be shapeshifters, moving between worlds unannounced and unseen.

In the middle Ages, black cats were noted for being associated with demons. In fact, Pope Gregory IX claimed that all cats were demonic and the ritual killing of cats took place on a regular basis throughout England and Europe. It wasn’t until later that historians later theorirized that had there been more cats, the bubonic Plague may have been less devastating than it had been.

In 16th century Italy, people believed that if someone was sick he would die if a black cat lay on his bed.

Even today, black cats are the least likely to be adopted from shelters, taking much longer to be adopted out. And some shelters will not adopt out black cats during Halloween in order to protect them from sacrificial rituals.

Positive symbolism

In ancient Egypt the Godess Bastet was very closely associated with cats, bringing protection to anyone worshipping her. The Goddess protected the home, warded off negative spirits, kept illness away and protected children, pregnant women and those in childbirth. The color black for the Egyptians symbolized the cycle of life, from birth to life to death, the underworld, and resurrection.

In Hinduism, goddess Mata Shasti Devi, venerated in Nepal and India, is similar to Bastet in that she was a protector of fertility, childbirth, and children. As well, she protected the home from disease and illness.

In other cultures, such as Japanese folklore, the black cat is considered a symbol of good luck, prosperity and protection, often times seen upon entrance to a shop or public place.

Many seafarers, such as the Vikings or sailors from Ireland and England would keep acat on their vessel to protect against disease by killing off the rodents, but also to reduce rats and mice that would chew on ship ropes or eat the grains on board. Black cats especially, however, were thought to bring good luck and protect the ships from dangerous weather. One particular black cat names Tiddles, was famous aboard the Royal Navy’s aircraft carriers. He eventually travelled over 30,000 miles (48,000 km) during his time in service.

In Scottish and Irish folklore, having a black cat arrive on your doorstep is a sign of prosperity and good luck.

However, Things may be improving for black cats overall.

Fame and black cats

Black cats today still captivate their audiences to the point of making it to the big screen. In 1961, an audition sought to cast a black cat for a movie adaption from the book Tales of Terror written by Edgar Allen Poe. This resulted in a lineup of over 150 black cats in the middle of Hollywood.

We even have other famous black cats in films, in books, on TV, in magazines, made into artwork and staues including:

Mr Kittles from Scary movie 2 2001

Thackery Binx from Hocus Pocus (1993)

Jiji from Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Winkie from the 1975 Walt Disney movie, “Escape to Witch Mountain.”

And around the world, black cats have also contributed to success of their owners.

The black cat well in Zell, Germany was erected after bringing success to the owners’ wine business.

Humans now go to great lengths to rescue these loving creatures from accidents, such as the case with Oscar, the black cat who had two prostetic legs made to replace the legs he lost in an accident.

In conclusion, the black cat holds a prominent place in alchemy, esoteric and occult texts, and history and symbolizes the mysterious, the hidden, and the transformative. In alchemy, the black cat represents the initial stage of nigredo, symbolizing the need to confront inner darkness before spiritual transformation. In the realm of esoteric and occult texts, the black cat is a symbol of hidden knowledge, serving as a guide to the supernatural and the unseen. Its symbolism is a testament to the dual nature of existence, where light and darkness are intertwined on the path to enlightenment and self-discovery. Like the alchemical process itself, the black cat represents a journey from darkness to light, from the unknown to the known, and from base matter to spiritual gold.

So, Do you know a black cat? Or are you a black cat lover? What experiences have you had with black cats, or are you superstitious about black cats? We’d love to hear about your black cats thoughts in the comments below, thanks for sharing!

Video version here:

The Black Cat – Myth and Symbolism

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

https://www.uniguide.com/black-cat-meaning

https://rarehistoricalphotos.com/black-cat-audition-hollywood/

https://moviepaws.com/2017/10/27/top-13-black-cats-in-horror-movies/

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schwarze_Katz

Oscar, the black cat with new legs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzlahV0BwgQ

Black cat video: Igor Zhorov @vecteezy.com  

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Living a Better Life Through Alchemy: Unlocking the Secrets to Personal Transformation

Alchemy, often associated with the mystical quest to transform base metals into gold, has a deeper, more profound purpose that extends beyond mere material wealth. Alchemy was, and is, at the same time practical, symbolic and psychological and one does not exclude the others. Anyone who approaches Alchemy have their own reasons and personal belief systems that may or may not interfere with their visions and real representation of the subject. Truth, although objective in theory, is often subjective in practice, meaning, we all DECIDE what to believe.

Alchemy’s true essence is the pursuit of personal transformation and enlightenment, together with the transmutation of metal in its practical and traditional aspect.

While the alchemy of old may have been shrouded in secrecy and mysticism, its principles can be adapted to contemporary life to help individuals lead more fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.

In this exploration, we will delve into how the principles of Alchemy can guide us towards a better life, emphasizing self-improvement, inner growth, and the pursuit of our highest potential.

Alchemy, as a tradition, revolves around three core stages of transformation: the Nigredo (Blackening), the Albedo (Whitening), and the Rubedo (Reddening).

a. Nigredo (Blackening): The Beginning

b. Albedo (Whitening): The Middle

c. Rubedo (Reddening): The End

In Alchemy, the Philosopher’s Stone is the ultimate goal—a substance believed to transmute base metals into gold and grant immortality. In a metaphorical sense, the Philosopher’s Stone usually represents the attainment of inner wisdom and enlightenment.

Here’s how we can apply this concept to our lives:

a. Self-Discovery: Seek to understand your true self, your values, and your purpose in life. This self-awareness is the foundation upon which personal transformation is built. Know thyself, NOSCE TE IPSUM, in Latin.

b. Transmutation of the Mind: Just as Alchemy transforms base metals into gold, we can transform our negative thoughts into positive ones. Embrace a growth mindset, practice gratitude, and cultivate optimism.

c. The Elixir of Life: Alchemists sought a substance called the Elixir of Life for physical immortality. This can be viewed as the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, longevity, REAL immortality and a balanced existence.

Hermeticism, a philosophical tradition closely related to Alchemy, provides valuable principles for living a better life:

a. The Principle of Mentalism: Understand the power of your thoughts and beliefs. Your mind shapes your reality.

b. The Principle of Correspondence: Recognize the interconnectedness of all things. What happens within you is reflected in your external experiences.

c. The Principle of Vibration: Be mindful of your energy and the frequencies you emit. Positive vibrations attract positive outcomes.

d. The Principle of Polarity: Find balance between opposing forces, such as light and dark, night and day.

e. The Principle of Rhythm: Acknowledge that life is cyclical, with ups and downs. Find harmony in these rhythms.

    f. The Principle of Cause and Effect: Take responsibility for your actions and choices as much as you can; they create your reality.

    g. The Principle of Gender: Recognize the masculine and feminine energies within yourself and others, strive for their balance.

    Incorporate Alchemical principles into your daily life:

    a. Meditation and Reflection: Regularly engage in introspective practices and foster personal growth.

    b. Self-Care: Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Just as Alchemical substances are purified, nurture your body, mind and soul.

    c. Lifelong Learning: Embrace knowledge and wisdom as tools for personal transformation. Seek out opportunities for growth and self-improvement.

    d. Passion and Purpose: Identify your passions and align your life with your purpose. Pursuing what truly matters to you leads to a more fulfilling existence.

    e. Mindful Manifestation: Use the power of intention and positive thinking to manifest your desires and goals.

    Some Alchemical symbols can serve as reminders of the transformative journey:

    a. The Ouroboros (the serpent eating its tail): Symbolizes the eternal cycles, encouraging us to embrace change and renewal.

    b. The Caduceus: Represents balance and healing. Strive for equilibrium in your life, and seek healing on all levels.

    c. The Three Moons : Symbolize the cyclical nature of life, as well as the continuous cycle of change and transformation.

    These concepts might be interpreted as follows:

    Symbolism

    Just as alchemists used symbols to represent their processes, individuals can use symbolism and metaphor to better understand and navigate their personal growth journey. For example, turning “base” qualities into “noble” ones might represent turning negative traits or habits into positive ones. Transmutation

    In alchemy, transmutation is the process of changing one substance into another. In personal development, this can be seen as the process of changing one’s mindset, beliefs, or behaviors to achieve personal goals and transformation.

    Wisdom

    Alchemy often involved deep philosophical AND practical reflections. In this context, individuals can explore ideas and practical wisdom to gain insights into their lives and make meaningful changes. Wisdom and Pragmatism go hand in hand.

    Inner Work

    Just as alchemists spent considerable time and effort on their experiments, individuals can dedicate time and effort to personal transformation and development.

    Goal Setting

    The quest for the philosopher’s stone or the elixir of life in alchemy can be likened to setting life goals and working toward them with dedication and perseverance.

    Alchemy may also offer a road map for personal transformation and self-discovery.

      Alchemy encourages us to embark on an inner journey of self-improvement, mindfulness, and purpose, ultimately helping us unlock the secrets to living a better life, a life filled with truth, wisdom, balance, the pursuit of freedom, wealth and our highest potential.

      Now, when we combine these elements, “Living a Better Life Through Alchemy” suggests that by applying certain metaphorical and practical principles or methods inspired by alchemy, individuals can achieve personal transformation and enhance their overall quality of life.

      Today, the concept of alchemy is often used metaphorically to describe any profound personal transformation, where individuals seek to turn their “base” qualities into “gold” through self-awareness and inner work. It also provides practical and day to day solutions for a better life.

      Interesting information, additional sources and other points of view:

      https://www.alchemywebsite.com/

      More occult posts here on Alkemystica.com

      Watch the related video on the platform below:

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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

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      Esotericism and the Occult. Are they useless? (New Counter Theory)

      Esotericism refers to the doctrines of esoteric knowledge, in other words, knowledge that is hidden or obscure. Esoteric knowledge is available only to a narrow circle of “enlightened,” “initiated,” or highly educated people. ESOTERIC knowledge is usually contrasted with EXOTERIC knowledge, which is well-known or public knowledge for society at large.

      Esotericism involves initiation such as the requirement that one be tested before learning the higher truth. However, such knowledge may be kept secret even because the masses would not have the ability to understand it.

      Some traditions could be classified as forms of “Esotericism” due to their “inner” focus as well as their “selective” and “secretive” nature.

      Etymology

      Esoteric is an adjective originating in ancient Greece and comes from the Greek esôterikos, from esôtero, the comparative form of esô: which means “within.”

      Esoteric refers to anything that is inner.

      Its opposite is Exoteric, from the Greek eksôterikos, from eksôtero, the comparative form of eksô: “outside.”

      While many esoteric subjects have a history reaching back thousands of years, not all of them survived to this day. During the Italian Renaissance, for example, philosophers Marsilio Ficino and Pico della Mirandola turned their attention to the classical literature of neo-Platonism, and Hermeticism.

      During the Middle Ages, things as astrology, alchemy, and magic were all part of the curriculum of an educated person. In fact, it was quite normal for a person to have various interests and be learned in many topics and not be skilled in just one thing or monodimensional like today.

      History

      Esotericism is not a single tradition, but a mix of often unrelated figures and movements, that is why any teaching is to be taken with a grain of salt in my opinion.

      In the ancient Graeco-Roman world, “Mystery religions,” or simply “Mysteries,” were belief systems in which full admission was restricted to those who had gone through certain secret initiation rites.” The term “Mystery” derives from Latin mysterium, from Greek musterion, in this context meaning “secret rite or doctrine.”

      Esoteric is used to designate teachings or doctrines that are purposely kept secret, generally with a view to distinguish between initiates and noninitiates and refers to the hidden meanings of apparent reality.

      GNOSIS, which means “knowledge” in Greek, is often used as a synonym for Esotericism.

      Mainly since the beginning of the 1990s, the definition Western Esotericism came about, referring to the medieval and modern Greco-Latin world in which the religious traditions of Judaism and Christianity have coexisted for centuries, together with Islam.

      I personally discard the term Western or Eastern since giving Esoteric and higher knowledge a geographic location is ridiculous, given the many clues about a world-wide pool of knowledge from time immemorial. Considering also the fact that many scholars use it just to underline political or personal world view that have no basis in reality.

      Some prominent currents of Esotericism are:

      Hermetism (referring to the Greek hermetica of late antiquity, in particular in the Corpus Hermeticum attributed to the legendary Hermes Trismegistus)

      The philosophy of the Renaissance

      Alchemy of the fifteenth to the twentieth centuries

      Astrology

      Theories of Paracelsus, giving a chemical or Alchemical interpretation of nature

      Rosicrucianism

      Theosophy, Illuminism and Occultism.

      These are all official and established definition, not that you have to believe in them not take them for granted without doing your own research.

      Then you also have all the academic research that is mostly a philosophical exercise of the intellect, mostly performed by aristocrats or individuals who belonged to agencies or hidden groups and had nothing to do with the REAL world, whatever REAL might mean.

      As I said in my previous video about ESOTERIC PRAGMATISM, all these teachings should help us live a better life and not only be approached when one feels bored or wants to spend time flexing their brains, especially within the walls of Academia.

      Most real scholars in the past and a few in the present, were OUT THERE in the world and were men and women of many talents and capabilities. Kings and Queens died in battle, unlikely to happen today.

      Now it’s true that Philosophy and Mystical activities have always been in the hands of the higher classes and elite, since they had time and resources to dedicate themselves to it, unlike regular people who unfortunately have to go real jobs and professions.

      Today, 99% of esoteric material is in the hands of people who never leave their armchairs, so their knowledge of the world is limited, as their knowledge of the REAL mysteries of the world.

      I personally always promote a practical approach to any occult teachings, as a way to look for personal freedom while not harming anyone. So the point is: are modern esoteric teachings just a parroting of old ones?

      For the most part, I would say close to 100%, yes they are, and the reason is simple. Most of self proclaimed experts in occult knowledge just repeat and promote the same teachings that have been known for thousands of years, without considering if they are still relevant today or not.

      Can a secret doctrine of 3000 years ago help you in your current life in the year 2023 and years to come? Maybe, maybe not.

      How do you find that out? Did you try it yourself or only rely on other people’s words and teachings?

      I found most people never make an effort to come up with some practical knowledge and solutions to today’s challenges.

      In a historical period in time where a lot of change is going on, as always was and probably will be, I believe it is time to promote teachings and solutions that can transform people’s minds to be free and prosper today’s world. Teachings that promote health, personal freedom and wealth and not some abstract and still-not-proven theory taken from an obscure, often random, text.

      So the question is:

      Is Esotericism useless? Especially the modern form promoted by would-be gurus?

      Also, if you think about it and it does not get mentioned often, if something was really “esoteric” and “occult”, you wouldn’t probably find it in books on online stores and all.

      Of course all knowledge can help you live a better life if you believe it can.

      The point is that REAL occult knowledge that is in the hands of few people will remain, INDEED, OCCULT, that is, HIDDEN, for the rest of us, whether you are a self-proclaimed guru, professor within academia, or a freethinker.

      Unless you are REALLY part of that inner circle. Only time will tell.

      Sources, additional Info and other Points of View:

      Esoteric knowledge is useless, VIDEO here

      https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Esotericism

      https://www.encyclopedia.com/environment/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/esotericism

      You can Watch the VIDEO on the platform below: