Ross and Carrie Learn from Travis McHenry (Part 1): Demon Summoning Edition
Oct 30, 2023
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Ross and Carrie attend a talk by Travis McHenry, self-described atheist, ritual magician, tarot card creator, and Priest of Anubis. They explore the history of occult magic, discuss influential figures like Crowley and Blavatsky, and debunk misconceptions about Satanism. They also share their thoughts on summoning experiences and ethical taxidermy, and delve into the eccentric world of micronations with a spotlight on the founder of Westarctica.
The podcast explores the history and various aspects of occult magic, including astrology, tarot cards, ritual magic, and sigil magic.
Travis McHenry, an atheist occultist, engages in ritual magic and successfully summons entities to assist him despite his disbelief.
There is a discussion about the secrecy and gatekeeping in occult practices, and the effectiveness of occult practices is a topic of ongoing debate among occultists.
Deep dives
The History of Occult Magic
The podcast episode explores the history of occult magic and introduces Travis McHenry, an author and occultist. McHenry discusses the misconceptions surrounding occultism and defines occult as "secret knowledge." He explains the different aspects of occult magic, such as astrology, tarot cards, ritual magic, and divination. McHenry also shares his personal experiences, including summoning 144 entities and being initiated as a priest of Anubis. He discusses sigil magic and the debate among occultists regarding the source of its effectiveness.
Travis McHenry: A Character and Practitioner
Travis McHenry is portrayed as a fascinating and multi-talented figure in the occult community. He is described as a published author and a practicing ritual magician. McHenry's interests range from paranormal research and fitness to martial arts. He is known for his tarot decks, including the occult tarot and angel tarot, which have gained popularity. Despite his atheist beliefs, McHenry engages with spirits and, through rituals and invocations, harnesses their energy and assistance.
Gatekeeping and Controversial Practices
There is a discussion about the secrecy and gatekeeping in occult practices. McHenry explains that while some knowledge may be hidden, it is not necessarily exclusive or elitist. He suggests seeking out individuals who have been initiated or gaining trust within the occult community to access certain information. The controversial aspects of McHenry's practices, such as mummifying animals and the use of sigil magic, are mentioned. The podcast also highlights the ambiguity surrounding the effectiveness of occult practices and the ongoing debate among occultists regarding their true nature.
The Origins of the Occult
The podcast episode explores the origins of the occult, tracing it back to ancient Persia, Egypt, and Judaism. It discusses how occultists attempted to syncretize different knowledge traditions into one system. Specific figures like Hermes Trismegistus and the library at Alexandria are highlighted as important influences. The episode also explores the development of occult practices such as astrology, tarot cards, and Kabbalah. It mentions the rise of hermeticism, alchemy, and secret societies during the 1300-1700 period, followed by a shift towards experiment-based occult practices during the Enlightenment.
Misconceptions about Satanism and the Occult
The episode addresses common misconceptions about Satanism and the occult. It emphasizes that genuine satanic groups do not engage in violent or supernatural practices, and that they are often misrepresented. The speaker also highlights the occult elements within Christianity, such as the symbolic drinking of blood in communion. Intonation, intent, and attitude are discussed as key elements in ritual magic, and the episode explores the concept of hidden knowledge within religious texts like the Bible. Additionally, the episode briefly mentions the speaker's involvement in micronations and his interest in paranormal research.
Ross and Carrie attend a talk by Travis McHenry, a self-described atheist, ritual magician, tarot card creator, and Priest of Anubis. He tells the entire history of the occult, then teaches the attendees to contact angels (or demons, if preferred). Plus lessons on astrology, sigils, and the most popular occult book in the world. (Place your bets now.)
