30 posts tagged “alchemy”

Direct link to download .mp3 podcast file -- http://media.blubrry.com/occultofpersonality/www.occultofpersonality.net/wp-content/uploads/OoP_Podcast75_RobertPlace1.mp3

If the above link is not working, please try -- http://www.divshare.com/download/9070324-a2b

“Robert M. Place is an internationally known visionary artist and illustrator, whose award winning works, in painting, sculpture, and jewelry, have been displayed in galleries and museums in America, Europe, and Japan and graced the covers and pages of numerous books and publications. He is the designer, illustrator, and co-author, with Rosemary Ellen Guiley, of: The Alchemical Tarot and The Angels Tarot, which are both published by HarperCollins and have received international acclaim particularly for their skillful and illuminating graphics. He is the designer, illustrator, and author of The Tarot of the Saints, and The Buddha Tarot, which are published by Llewellyn. His fifth book, The Tarot: History, Symbolism, and Divination, is published by Tarcher/Penguin. He has also authored Astrology and Divination, Magic and Alchemy, and Shamanism. His latest Tarot deck and book set is The Vampire Tarot, published by St. Martins Press.”

"The Vampire Tarot" by Robert M. Place

To begin episode 75, Robert describes the prophetic and synchronistic manner that he was introduced to the Tarot. As an artist, he was able to intuitively grasp the symbolism and levels of meaning portrayed in the Tarot images, allowing him to create “The Alchemical Tarot“, a very highly-acclaimed and beautiful deck. Robert then describes his latest creation, “The Vampire Tarot“.

Jonathan the Fool

As a Tarot scholar, his research into the history and folklore of vampires and the Dracula legend led him to the realization that this story was like an inverse of the alchemical quest. The Great Work is analogous to the story told by the Major Arcana of the Tarot. In his analysis of the Dracula legend, Robert realized that this story was also a quest for immortality but in a far darker and different way, replacing the spiritual with the material.

IV. The Count

Robert tells us how the vampire legends invoke the Jungian concept of facing the shadow or the other. The resurrection of these legends in literature coincided with the scientific revolution and Romanticism. The original vampire stories, like the unrefined unconscious mind were dark and frightening, but when examined in the light, by writers and artists, these same stories can take on an alluring quality. Robert explains this evolution from a historical, psychological, and artistic perspective.

XVIII. The Moon

We finish off the conversation as Robert describes how he views the Dracula legend as analogous to the quest for the Holy Grail. Dracula can be seen as the dark knight and those trying to defeat him as the Knights of the Round Table. His perspective on this legend and his beautiful artwork in “The Vampire Tarot” can bring forth yet another version of the archetypal hero’s quest, there all along and just waiting for us to discover it.

XIX. The Sun

direct link to download .mp3 podcast file -- http://media.blubrry.com/occultofpersonality/www.occultofpersonality.net/wp-content/uploads/OoP_Podcast74_Orryelle.mp3

In podcast episode 74, we’re joined by Orryelle Defenestrate-Bascule, “a prolific visual, sonic and textual artist-magickian. The instruments of his arts and magicks include, but are not limited to: Australia’s Metamorphic Ritual Theatre Co. which presents public rituals aiming to transform rather than merely entertain the audiences.” Orryelle explains how the act of creation is Magickal from an artist’s perspective.

Moonzoomorphs

Orryelle is responsible for the “ever-expanding digital archives and galleries of Mutation Parlour; a member of The HermAphroditic ChAOrder of the Silver Dusk, a global multicultural and multisubcultural blend of tradition and innovation, artist of “Conjunctio” (a Graphic Grimmoire), creator of the Book of Kaos Tarot, and author of A Brief HIRStory of TimEmiT. Orryelle has been extensively involved in the Horus-Maat Lodge, channeling several double-current Libers such as ‘Pennae-Ultim-Atum‘ and ‘The Book of Going Back by Night‘.”

Conjunctio by Orryelle Defenestrate-Basucle

Our conversation touches on the recently published graphic grimiore “Conjunctio” and presentation at the Esoteric Book Conference, the importance of working in the physical plane, aesthetics, art, beauty and transformation, including body modification. Orryelle also discusses the art of ritual performance, world wide travels to sacred sites, and even some thoughts about 2012.

Svadsabmand

Orryelle is extremely creative in many mediums, including poetry, art, music, theater, Magick, Alchemy, and self-transformation. Our conversation provides a bit of insight into Orryelle’s unique Work.

relevant links:

Mutation Parlour

“Conjunctio” by Orryelle Defenestrate-Bascule, available via Fulger Ltd.

Esoteric Book Conference – performances (also discussed in episode 69 with William Keisel of Ouroboros Press)

Orryelle Defenestrate-Bascule

Mutation EnCyclopsedia (tattoos and other body arts)

Metamorphic Ritual Theatre

Global Chakra Workings

Orryelle Defenestrate-Bascule’s publications (including Book of Kaos Tarot), EsoErotic artwork, and music

intro music by HipGnosis and Darkfold

outro music by Orryelle Defenstrate-Bascule – “Kalikaye”

Upcoming class: Occult of Personality presents “Meditation and the Western Esoteric Tradition” on Thursday, October 29th at 8 PM. Please see the link for specific details.

Coming Soon!

As mentioned last week, I’m pleased to announce that in addition to the regular free podcasts, Occult of Personality will soon offer extra recordings as part of a new members subscription section. In these additional interviews and conversations, featured guests will provide expertise in specific areas of esoteric study.

In addition to receiving extra audio recordings for most upcoming guests on the show, listeners will also have an option to sign up for Rising Phoenix Foundation’s “The Inner Fire Journal” by David Goddard (our guest in episodes 54 and 62). “The Inner Fire Journal” is dedicated to the practice of true Alchemy and the Hermetic Arts and is published each month. “The Inner Fire Journal” features high grade Western Mystery teachings, guided meditations, audio, video, and more.

Look for more details about how you can sign up for the Occult of Personality membership subscription later this month. There will be another update in the next podcast episode.
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One scheduling note: Part 2 of the interview with Christopher Knowles is not yet available, but will be posted soon.

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In podcast episode 69, we’re joined by William J. Kiesel, the publisher and editor of Ouroboros Press. “His long years in the antiquarian and esoteric book trade gave him access to rare books and manuscripts not generally available to the public. William has cultivated a lifelong care of books and has involved himself in every aspect of bookmaking, from bookbinding and typography to handset letterpress.” William has also organized the Esoteric Book Conference.

Ouroboros Press

We begin the interview with William describing how his interest in books and publishing developed. He talks about how he began collecting esoteric books at an early age and was inspired by a number of well-known esoteric authors and publishers. He highlights the tremendous amount of research and background work that goes into publishing antiquarian esoteric texts.

Picatrix 2

William describes how learning about aspects of publishing, such as bookbinding, paper selection, typesetting, and familiarity with various translations was crucial to his desire to publish new imprints of ancient esoteric books. We discuss some of the remarkable books that Ouroboros Press has released and some of his upcoming projects. We also talk about the Renaissance as a fruitful time for all knowledge, but especially in terms of esoteric books.

Turba Philosophorum Open

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“.

“Occult Fundamentals and Spiritual Unfoldment - Volume 1: The Early Writings” by Paul Foster Cas

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.

“Esoteric Secrets of Meditation and Magic - Volume 2: The Early Writings” by Paul Foster Case

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.

Fraternitas L.V.X. Occulta (Fraternity of the Hidden Light)

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.

"Hands-On Chaos Magic" by Andrieh Vitimus

The primary objective of Andrieh’s experimental Work is to present practical and useful techniques that empower the practitioner to change themselves and their world. By creatively engaging with the Universe, one may grow and expand in a conscious way. He explains that there are different methods to accomplish this and each practitioner must find those that work best for them. We discuss Andrieh’s experience using Magic to drastically alter his circumstances and how his life story can serve as inspiration to others.

Chaosphere

Next we discuss Andrieh’s connection with Voudon and how it aids his Work. Then we talk about the practical importance of meditation, trance states, and the amazing benefits from this simple, yet profound practice. The benefits of meditative practice include improved physical and emotional health, better decision making skills, temporary refuge from the hectic pace of daily life, and greater potency of Magical operations.

Veve Legba

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:

Andrieh Vitimus

“Who is Andrieh Vitimus”

“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/

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.

Key 18 - The Moon

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.

"The Tower of Alchemy" by David Goddard

2 comments

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.

Sandalphon

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:

Rising Phoenix Foundation

“Podcast 54 - David Goddard”

“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/

direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/329/0/OoP_Podcast62_DavidGoddard_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”.

Circle of Fifths and Color Wheel

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

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.”

“The Living Temple of Witchcraft Vollume One: The Descent of the Goddess” by Christopher Penczak

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.

Pentagram

We discuss the syncretic nature of his teaching and praxis that combines witchcraft, ideas from Hermetics, Qabalah, and even Alchemy. Christopher talks about how witchcraft shares ideas in common with Thelema and how Crowley’s work inspired him when he was younger. We touch on the concept of balance in spirituality and life in general. Penczak’s books and classes are very highly regarded, and in this conversation, you’ll see why.

“The Inner Temple of Witchcraft: Magick, Meditation and Psychic Development”

relevant links:

Christopher Penczak

“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

Teacher, spiritual guide, theurgist, alchemist, mage, and author David Goddard joins us in this episode to discuss some of his Work. David is one of the founders of Rising Phoenix Foundation, a school dedicated to “transmitting western esoteric wisdom.” He has also written several excellent texts, including, “The Sacred Magic of the Angels.”

Sacred Magic of the Angels

Our conversation begins as David describes the reason why these teachings, only taught to high initiates in the past, are now available openly due to the perilous times in which we live. He reviews the origins of Angelic magic in ancient Egypt and Babylon. Part of the same tradition as the Book of Enoch, this system has been passed down from antiquity. We then discuss the Great Work of Alchemy rather extensively, a subject brilliantly exposed in theory and practice in David’s book, “The Tower of Alchemy: An Advanced Guide to the Great Work.”

Tower of Alchemy

David reviews the true meaning of the Royal Art of Alchemy, the relationship of Alchemy and Qabalah, and the meaning of the Emerald Tablet. Then we discuss the relationship between eastern and western religion and esoterica and the concept of a world spiritual tradition. Finally, we talk about the Work of Rising Phoenix Foundation. Be sure to check out the many teachings, classes, and workshops available for students.

Key-14

“I sustain creation
In the midst of a perpetual ebb and flow.
Therefore do I assume the appearance of a refiner’s fire,
Forever purging out the dross of forms outworn.
This is mine aspect of Severity,
And of this it is written,
“Tetragrammaton Elohim is a devouring fire.”

Thus am I as one who testeth gold in a furnace,
And this aspect of my being
Presenteth to the unrighteous
A face of wrath.

Yet by the purgation of fire
Do I uphold and sustain thee
In every moment of thy life.

For when thou hast been tried as by fire,
The gold of thy Beauty shall be purged of all dross
… and … shalt thou behold
The Shining One
Who is thine own true Self.”

- excerpted from “The Meditation on Samekh” in “The Book of Tokens”

relevant links:

Rising Phoenix Foundation

free audio and text files available as a thank you from David to listeners

Rising Phoenix Foundation podcast

“The Sacred Magic of the Angels” by David Goddard

“The Tower of Alchemy: An Advanced Guide to the Great Work” by David Goddard

“The Dragon-Treasure of Hermes” by David Goddard

“Tree of Sapphires: Enlightened Qabalah” by David Goddard

“Celestial Magic” by David Goddard

“The Book of Enoch” tr. by R.H. Charles

“Metatron: Angel Prince, Enoch Transformed” and “Metatron: Anomalous Angel of the Countenance” by Geoffrey Dennis

“Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite” Wikipedia entry

“Saint Denis” Wikipedia entry

“Qabalah” by David Goddard

“Alchemy” by David Goddard

“Emerald Tablet of Hermes”

intro music by HipGnosis

outro music by Dead Can Dance, excerpt of “The Host of Seraphim”

original link -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/2008/11/26/podcast-54-david-goddard/

direct link to download .mp3 audio file -- http://www.occultofpersonality.com/podpress_trac/web/119/0/OoP_Podcast54_DavidGoddard_it.mp3

First, on this the occasion of the 50th episode, I want to express my thanks to all who have listened to Occult of Personality podcasts as well as all the writers and researchers who have graciously spent some of their time with us. It is my humble wish that you may have learned as much by listening to these podcasts as I have by helping to create them.

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In this 50th episode, we’re joined by Masonic scholar, researcher, and writer Angel Millar. He has an extensive historical knowledge of The Craft and associated fraternal orders and societies. We begin our conversation with the subject of the origins of Freemasonry and the seemingly diverse streams that may have fed it, specifically ancient Mysteries, stone masons, neo-Templarism, Enlightenment philosophies, and Christianity.

"Freemasonry: A History" by Angel Millar

The discussion delves into Rosicrucianism, particularly the Golden Rosicrucians that formed the basis for later Masonic Rosicrucian societies, such as Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia. This material is fascinating for those that enjoys the mysteries of the origins of Freemasonry and Rosicrucianism. Millar does a fantastic job of explaining his perspective based on extensive research displayed in both his first book, “Freemasonry: A History” and upcoming book, “The Forest of Symbols: Freemasonry and the Western Esoteric Tradition” soon to be released by Ouroboros Press.

"The Forest of Symbols: Freemasonry and the Western Esoteric Tradition" by Angel Millar

We also cover topics like Sacred Geometry, the concept of clandestine or irregular Masonry, The Rite of Strict Observance, The Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, and Aleister Crowley’s Masonic adventures.

Rose Croix