We’re joined again by our friend Dr. Paul Clark, Steward of Fraternitas L.V.X. Occulta. Dr. Clark begins by talking about the F.L.O’s publication of the early lessons of Paul Foster Case, “Occult Fundamentals and Spiritual Unfoldment - Volume 1: The Early Writings” and “Esoteric Secrets of Meditation and Magic - Volume 2: The Early Writings“.
Volume one begins with a short biography of Case followed by “Occult Fundamentals”, a wide introductory survey of topics studied as part of the Western Mystery Tradition. “Spiritual Unfoldment” uses the powerful archetypal images of the Tarot to guide students through the seven stages of development, from the illusion of bondage to cosmic awakening.
In the second volume, the first section provides a combination of Eastern and Western meditation techniques, from concentration, step by step, to the reception of teachings of the Universal Mind. The section about Magic shows how the practical Qabalah affects our everyday lives and the concept of linking aspects of consciousness to symbols, Magical tools, and talismans.
Dr. Clark then addresses the concept of initiation and the role of initiates in the current age. He talks about how mystical revelations are not integrated until one comes down from the mountain and is able to expound the Truth of those experiences in the marketplace. Next, Dr. Clark discusses the Greater Initiation, linking the self-conscious with super consciousness, Gnosis, Knowledge and Conversation with the Holy Guardian Angel, and how an initiate is someone in the process of awakening, equilibrating, self-purifying, and consecrating with the goal of service to others.
Dr. Clark then addresses the great lies perpetrated throughout the ages, including separation, materialism, and mortality. We finish off the interview by talking about the concept Hieros gamos, the sacred marriage.
relevant links:
Fraternitas L.V.X. Occulta (Fraternity of the Hidden Light)
“Occult Fundamentals and Spiritual Unfoldment - Volume 1: The Early Writings” by Paul Foster Case
“Esoteric Secrets of Meditation and Magic - Volume 2: The Early Writings” by Paul Foster Case
“Podcast 46 - Fraternity of the Hidden Light’s Steward, Dr. Paul Clark”
“Podcast 42 - The Life and Work of Dr. Paul Foster Case”
“The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages” by Paul Foster Case
“Esoteric Keys of Alchemy” by Paul Foster Case
“The True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order: An Interpretation of the Rosicrucian Allegory & An Explanation of the Ten Rosicrucian Grades” by Paul Foster Case
“The Secrets of Dr. Taverner” by Dion Fortune
intro music by HipGnosis
background music by Darkfold -”Nomads”
outro music by Aarni - “V.I.T.R.I.O.L.”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/06/30/podcast-66-dr-paul-clark/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/369/0/OoP_Podcast66_PaulClark_it.mp3
In this episode, we’re joined by Aepril Schaile. “Aepril is an astrologer, musician and composer, talented dancer and dance teacher, writer and storyteller, mythologist, animal rights advocate, and Witch.” She has been called “an American priestess of the Dark Goddess” and her performances are quite extraordinary. Our conversation begins as Aepril describes her early life and interest in the esoteric. From there we begin talking about her dancing, belly dance, and the combination of mythology, Magick, Astrology, theater, performance, and the creation of Beauty.
Aepril talks about identifying with darker feminine archetypes and how this influences her Work. She provides her perspective on being a Witch, living in Salem, Massachusetts, and some of her teachers and influences.
The conversation turns to Astrology, correspondences, her experience with the insights it provides, and her connection with Plutonic energies. Aepril explains how all of these esoteric and theatrical disciplines fit together for her and, lastly, hopes for the future of that Work.
relevant links:
“Aepril Schaile and Exquisite Corpse Dance Theater” Facebook page
“Belly dance (Origins)” Wikipedia entry
“The Soul’s Code: In Search of Character and Calling” by James Hillman
“Technicians of Ecstasy: Shamanism and the Modern Artist” by Mark Levy
“Mysteries of the Dark Moon: The Healing Power of the Dark Goddess” by Demetra George
“Life After Death: The Burden of Proof” by Deepak Chopra
intro music by HipGnosis (latest album)
outro music by Aepril Schaile and The Judgement - “A Gathering of Shades”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/06/22/podcast-65-aepril-schaile/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/354/0/OoP_Podcast65_AeprilSchaile_it.mp3
In this episode, we’re joined by mage, author, teacher, and healer Andrieh Vitimus. We begin the interview by talking about Andrieh’s history, his family, and how he became interested in Magic. From there, we talk about what Magic is and how it can be defined. Andrieh is connected with a variety of esoteric currents, including Chaos Magic, Voudon, ceremonial, and energy work. His book, entitled “Hands-On Chaos Magic: Reality Manipulation Through the Ovayki Current” is an excellent text, covering theory and practice in an accessible and enjoyable manner.
I highly recommend Andrieh Vitimus’ book “Hands-On Chaos Magic: Reality Manipulation Through the Ovayki Current“. He has presented a robust volume that is full of conceptual theory along with many exercises available for those who wish to experience practical results. I found the book to be quite effective. Andrieh has delivered an excellent text that will undoubtedly empower those readers who engage with the material.
relevant links:
“Hands-On Chaos Magic: Reality Manipulation Through the Ovayki Current” by Andrieh Vitimus
Andrieh Vitimus appearing in Occult Sentinel podcast episode 15
“Voodoo, Dumps, and Chaos Magic with Andrieh Vitimus” - Right Where You Are Sitting Now podcast episode 24
intro music by HipGnosis (new album)
outro music by The Quiet Earth Orchestra (featuring John Ludi) - “A New Light”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/06/12/podcast-64-hands-on-chaos-magic-with-andrieh-vitimus/
Jason Augustus Newcomb returns to the show in this episode to discuss his book “Practical Enochian Magick” and other subjects.
We discuss the allure and power of the Enochian system and Jason’s practical approach and he talks about the inherent dangers of all Magickal practices.
Jason talks about solar cycles and astrological currents, the coming of Spring, and the current economic crisis. He notes that these situations can be an opportunity for change and self-actualization is the key to success.
The Equinox Festival will be taking place in London from Friday, June 12th through Sunday, June 14th. Raymond Salvatore Harmon joins us to speak about it after the interview.
relevant links:
Podcast 37 - Jason Augustus Newcomb
Occult Sentinel podcast episode 12 - Jason Augustus Newcomb, “Practical Enochian Magick”
“Practical Enochian Magick” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
“The Enochian Magick Toolbook” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
Podcast 52 - Lon Milo DuQuette’s “Enochian Vision Magick”
“Enochian Vision Magick: An Introduction and Practical Guide to the Magick of Dr. John Dee and Edward Kelley” by Lon Milo DuQuette
Podcast 10 - “Enochian Initiation”
“John Dee’s Five Books of Mystery: Original Sourcebook of Enochian Magic“, Joseph Peterson, ed.
“Practical Angel Magic of Dr John Dee’s Enochian Tables: Tabularum Bonorum Angelorum Invocationes” by Stephen Skinner, David Rankine
“The New Hermetics” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
“The Book of Magick Power” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
“The Brotherhood of Light and Darkness” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
“The New Hermetics Equinox Journal: Volume One” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
“The New Hermetics Equinox Journal: Volume Two” by Jason Augustus Newcomb
“True and Faithful Relation of What Passed for Many Years Between Dr. John Dee and Some Spirits”
“The Magician” by W. Somerset Maugham
The Equinox Festival: A Festival of Scientific Illuminism
videos of some of those appearing at The Equinox Festival
intro music by HipGnosis (new album)
intermission music by Darkfold - “Nomads”
outro music by Aarni - “Ethanol Jam”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/06/05/podcast-63-practical-enochian-magick-with-jason-augustus-newcomb/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/335/0/OoP_Podcast63_JasonNewcomb_it.mp3
Our good friend, teacher and author David Goddard returns in this episode to discuss a variety of esoteric subjects. David is one of the founders of Rising Phoenix Foundation, a school dedicated to “transmitting Western esoteric wisdom.” Our conversation begins with astrology and the effect of the lunar nodes.
David describes the real world effect of the head and tail of the dragon, including current economic and political turmoil. Next, we delve into the subconscious mind and the tradition of working with symbols and meditations to unlock its awesome power. His book “Tower of Alchemy” is an excellent illustration of this method.
From there, David discusses the concept of initiation followed by an exposition on the similarity of Magic and religion, noting that the way humanity thinks of sacrifice has changed greatly since ancient times.
We then talk about the Magical operations detailed in David’s book, “Sword of Light” and their importance. We finish the conversation by talking about the concepts of energy, intention, and the way they work together.
David Goddard will be providing workshops and a lecture in the greater Boston area during the weekend of July 11, 2009. See the Rising Phoenix event page for specific information about the subjects, costs, dates, and times.
relevant links:
“The Tower of Alchemy: An Advanced Guide to the Great Work” by David Goddard
“Tree of Sapphires: Enlightened Qabalah” by David Goddard
Rising Phoenix Foundation shop
“Lunar node” Wikipedia entry
intro music by HipGnosis (new album available)
outro music by Djangle - “Rain”, courtesy of John McNair
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/06/01/podcast-62-david-goddard/
In this episode, we’re joined by Jake Stratton-Kent. Jake is one of the leading proponents of English Qabalah and a long-time magician and researcher. As a practitioner of Goetia for over 37 years, his knowledge and insights are extremely valuable. Jake’s new book is entitled, “The Encyclopedia Goetica Volume One: The True Grimoire“, a beautiful edition available from Scarlet Imprint.
Our conversation covers Jake’s esoteric experience and English Qabalah and its significance. He notes that this a true Qabalah that involves the English “language, a holy text, and mathematical laws at work between them.” From there, we turn to Goetia.
Jake explains why the Grimorium Verum, or True Grimoire, inspired him, including the syncretic composition, treatment of entities, and correspondences from many varied traditions. Interestingly, he also addresses the harm that arguments about whether the contacted entities are internal, external or both, might have upon the operations.
[The "True Grimoire"] … enables the persistent seeker to see, essentially, what many have failed to see, that underlying Goetic magic is a hidden tradition of great depth and significance. It possesses a traditional methodology that confronts and deals directly with the same primal realities faced by our most remote ancestors; in which all later magic and religion had their original impetus, but which in the West is primarily preserved in Goetic magic alone. As the anthropology of pre-history has shown, it was this rejected knowledge that initiated human evolution, giving the capacity for abstract or symbolic thought first activated in magic and ritual, and thus for all subsequent scientific and cultural advances. In these elements, its integrated completeness and primal power, lays the importance, and the Truth, of the True Grimoire.
- Jake Stratton-Kent, excerpt from the “The Encyclopedia Goetica Volume One: The True Grimoire”, p. 10
I highly recommend this beautiful volume to anyone interested in practicing or researching Goetia. The analysis is extremely detailed and insightful allowing the reader to appreciate the majesty of this Work. The book is also another treasure from Scarlet Imprint, adding to their wonderful catalog.
Jake Stratton-Kent and Scarlet Imprint are both appearing as speakers at the May 23rd, 2009 Occulture Festival in London, England.
relevant links:
“The Encyclopedia Goetica Volume One: The True Grimoire” by Jake Stratton-Kent
Occulture Festival: The Magickal Revival 2009
“A Conversation with Jake Stratton-Kent” by Sir Richard Heygate
“English Qabalah” Wikipedia entry
“Goetia” Wikipedia entry
intro music by HigGnosis (new album available)
outro music by Aarni - “Logos” (thanks again Markus!)
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/05/22/podcast-61-jake-stratton-kent/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/327/0/OoP_Podcast61_JSK_it.mp3
It’s my pleasure to bring you this episode featuring a discussion with musician and researcher Ezra Sandzer-Bell. Ezra has done extensive research and writing about the origins and esoteric connections of western music. The focus of our conversation is primarily the correspondence between sound and color, as well as a system to combine the the two, named “Marcotone”.
Marcotone was developed and documented by Edward Maryon in the early part of the 20th century and has been used by esoteric practitioners to verify their own doctrine and develop practices to attune the mind.
With his extensive musical background and understanding of music theory, Ezra does a phenomenal job of explaining the Marcotone system, how it functions, some mathematical inconsistencies, and his own experience in using it. One of the main points to draw from the discussion is that Marcotone is a spiritual system and does produce results.
Ezra has also been hard at work with Steve Willner to produce a series
of videos exploring concepts relating to music, color, and thought.
These videos are a real treat and I encourage you to check them out.
I learned quite a bit from Ezra about the way sound and color can be combined and how music can affect us in a variety of ways. The amount of time and effort that Ezra has spent researching these topics is evident from his explanations and insights into what might seem mundane to the uninitiated. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as we did!
relevant links:
The Hidden Origins of Western Musick - Ezra Sandzer-Bell’s blog
Put Down Your Guitar - Ezra’s 2nd blog
“Marcotone: The Science of Tone Color” by Edward Maryon - PDF file
“Marcotone Notes - Key Concepts” by Ezra Sandzer-Bell - PDF file
“Letter, Musical Pitch, and Color in the Work of Paul Foster Case” by Alison Deadman - PDF file
“Occult Fundamentals and Spiritual Unfoldment - Volume 1: The Early Writings” by Paul Foster Case
“Concerning Music and Dancing as Aids to the Religious Life” - Chapter V of “The Alchemy of Happiness” by Al Ghazzali
Labyrinth of the Psychonaut - Steve Willner’s blog
Podcast 40 - Enter the Labyrinth
intro music by HipGnosis (new album now available)
outro music by Gregg Braden and Jonathan Goldman, excerpt of “The Awakening” and Edward Lee, excerpt of “Vowel Sounds in the Great Pyramid”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/05/11/podcast-60-sound-and-color-with-ezra-sandzer-bell/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/277/0/OoP_Podcast60_Ezra_it.mp3
Our next subject is transhumanism, the philosophies involved, and the potential for future conflict. Lastly, Fish reviews the concept of conspiracy and some of the pitfalls.
Greg Fish has kindly offered the first two chapters of his fiction book “Shadow Nation” to listeners as a free download - “Shadow Nation” sample chapters PDF
relevant links:
Weird Things - Greg Fish’s blog
“The Wow! Signal” by Greg Fish
“The Hidden Records Interview” - Occult of Personality interviews Wayne Herschel
“The Hidden Records” by Wayne Herschel and Birgitt Lederer
“Podcast 17 - The Secret Cipher”
“Secret Cipher of the UFOnauts” by Allen H. Greenfield
“Podcast 31 - Scrying the Universe”
“Secret Rituals of the Men In Black” by Allen H. Greenfield
“The Sirius Mystery: New Scientific Evidence of Alien Contact 5,000 Years Ago” by Robert Temple
“The Science of the Dogon: Decoding the African Mystery Tradition” by Laird Scranton
“Sacred Symbols of the Dogon: The Key to Advanced Science in the Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphs” by Laird Scranton
“A Closer Examination of the 2012 Phenomenon” - Occult of Personality interviews researcher Angela Michaels
“Transhumanism” Wikipedia entry
intro music by HipGnosis
outro music by Mercury Rev, excerpt of “Planet Caravan”
Thanks to Jeff, who helps make this podcast a reality!
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/04/14/podcast-59-exploring-science-the-strange-and-the-unknown-2/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/231/0/OoP_Podcast59_Fish_it.mp3
Christopher Penczak joins us to talk about witchcraft, Magick, spirituality, religion, teaching, and some of his books, including his latest, “The Living Temple of Witchcraft Volume One: The Descent of the Goddess.”
We talk about the way religion and magic fit together. Our conversation
then delves into Christopher’s spiritual path, witchcraft, and the
Goddess. He describes the attraction of the Sacred Feminine for him and
how it led him back to a more spiritual and magical life.
relevant links:
“Ascension Magick: Ritual, Myth & Healing for the New Aeon” by Christopher Penczak
“The Outer Temple of Witchcraft: Circles, Spells and Rituals” by Christopher Penczak
“The Inner Temple of Witchcraft: Magick, Meditation and Psychic Development” by Christopher Penczak
“The Temple of High Witchcraft: Ceremonies, Spheres and The Witches’ Qabalah” by Christopher Penczak
“The Temple of Shamanic Witchcraft: Shadows, Spirits and the Healing Journey” by Christopher Penczak
“The Witch’s Shield: Protection Magick and Psychic Self-Defense” by Christopher Penczak
“Magick of Reiki: Focused Energy for Healing, Ritual, & Spiritual Development” by Christopher Penczak
“The Living Temple of Witchcraft Volume One: The Descent of the Goddess” by Christopher Penczak
“The Living Temple of Witchcraft Volume Two: The Journey of the God” by Christopher Penczak
Occult Sentinel podcast #4 - “Christopher Penczak”
intro music by HipGnosis
outro music by Mercyful Fate, excerpt of “A Dangerous Meeting”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/03/31/podcast-58-christopher-penczak/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/218/0/OoP_Podcast58_Penczak_it.mp3
Our discussion delves into Points Chauds.
“… we can roughly define the points chauds (French, lit. “hot points”) as locations on the human body that are “power points,” that can be empowered and/or activated, and that are directly connected with both the subtle body and some source of energy that is external to, or extends beyond the borders of, the human body… Tau Allen Greenfield, the bishop overseeing the current Great Arabia Working of points chauds empowerments, has described the points in connection with “the Quasi-Masonic sexual and mystical empowerment ‘points’ on the human body, part of a lost system of 360 points, possibly of Akkadian-Sumerian origin . . . and carried forward by the lineage of mystical and magical priesthoods to the present time.” Greenfield has delineated the connections between the points chauds system and the Rites of Memphis-Misraim, which he believes to comprise a quarter of the original and lost “primitive” shamanic systems of initiation/empowerment.”
- excerpt from “Points Chauds 101” by Tau Naamah
Lastly, we talk about Congregational Illuminism.
“What does it mean to work in free communion? First, one should realize we are here talking about certain underlying principles rather than hard and fast rules. Congregational Illuminism is an open system based upon these principles. Being an open system it is fluid and adaptable rather than rigid and constrained. Free Communion is a verb (i.e. these principles put into practice), or as some may prefer, a particular approach that is adopted to engage in the Work.
Congregational Illuminism is non-hierarchical and non-authoritarian. This means there is no rank or stratification and there is no central authority or “inner circle”. Congregational Illuminism is based on a bottom-up rather than a top-down model. We feel that all too often has it been shown that strict hierarchies within magical organizations have led to petty politics and useless power struggles. We say, do away with all this, level the playing field and focus on the Work. We have no Grand Poobahs. What we do have is an ever-growing number of sincere and dedicated Illuminists who have voluntarily come together in free association with each other to work in unity, openness and peace.
Our goal is Illumination. Our approach is both experimental and experiential. We are not an Order, or a singular organization. Many independent groups have formed. Many individuals contribute in their own ways as well. We view this diversity as a great benefit. We share our gnosis across borders. We peer review our successes and our failures. We feel this approach aids us all in attaining a closer approximation to what is true and to what works. We hold no superstitions sacred. We take a scientific and functional approach to the Work. There is nothing to hide. There are no secrets. There are only our own efforts and struggles towards enlightenment. This is enough.”
- “A Brief Introduction to Congregational Illuminism” by Tau Dositheos
Thanks again to Tau Allen Greenfield, Tau Dositheos, and Tau Naamah. I strongly support and endorse them, their contributions to the Great Work, and Congregational Illuminism.
relevant links:
“Rite of Memphis-Misraim” Wikipedia entry
“360/90 Points Chauds System for Scrying the Universe” by Tau Allen Greenfield
“Points Chauds 101” by Tau Naamah
“FAQ on Points Chauds” by Tau Naamah
“Podcast 31 - “Scrying the Universe” with T Allen Greenfield”
“Points Chauds, Circles, and the Authentic Tradition” by Tau Allen Greenfield
“The Voudon Gnostic Workbook: Expanded Edition” by Tau Michael Bertiaux
“A Brief Introduction to Congregational Illuminism” by Tau Dositheos
“How to Form a Congregational Illuminist Body”
Assembly of the Knowledge & Wisdom of Solomon
Smashing Illusions - Tau Allen Greenfield’s Livejournal
Another Occultist with a Blog - Tau Naamah’s web site
Congregational Illuminism Facebook page
Occult of Personality Book Shoppe
intro music by HipGnosis
outro music by Dead Can Dance, excerpt of “Chant of the Paladin”
original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2009/03/03/podcast-57-congregational-illuminism-and-points-chauds/
direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/197/0/OoP_Podcast57_PointsChauds_it.mp3
N.B.: In addition to the normal single audio file, because of the large audio file size, the recording is also available as two separate .mp3 files at Occult of Personality.
