The hosts discuss initiation and self initiation in the occult, exploring history, theory, and their own experiences. They delve into the flexibility of occult traditions, controversy and criticism in the field, ancient Greek initiation practices, and the symbolism of the three of wands tarot card. They also emphasize the importance of personal initiation rituals and invite listeners to join their whimsical world.
Initiation rituals involve transformative experiences that require individuals to shed their previous identities and embrace a new self, allowing them to enter the inner kingdom or the mysteries of their practice.
Initiation ceremonies have been practiced in various cultures and religions throughout history, serving as a symbolic journey of achieving new status or knowledge and entering the mysteries of their respective practices.
Symbols and rituals play a significant role in initiation ceremonies, highlighting the importance of death and rebirth symbolism and the concept of self-initiation.
Deep dives
Initiation and Rites of Passage
Initiation and rites of passage are important rituals in many cultures and religions. They mark a transition or change in status for individuals within a community. Initiation ceremonies often involve symbolic acts and rituals that represent rebirth or entering a new stage of life. Examples include graduation, marriage, coming of age, and religious ceremonies. These ceremonies serve to acknowledge and celebrate the individual's new role and responsibilities within their community.
The Symbolism of Initiation
Initiation rituals often involve transformative experiences for the participants. They may require individuals to shed their previous identities and embrace a new self. This process of ego death or shedding of pretenses allows individuals to enter the inner kingdom or the mysteries of their practice. Initiates may undergo sensory deprivation, symbolized by rituals like binding or blindfolding, to enhance their introspection and detachment. The goal is to awaken the student and mutate their subconscious on their path of learning and growth.
Historical Examples of Initiation
Historically, initiation rituals have been practiced in various cultures and religions. Examples include ancient Egyptian ceremonies associated with the pyramids, where initiates would experience symbolic death and rebirth within the King's Chamber. The Elysian Mysteries in ancient Greece involved ingesting a psychoactive brew called Kaikon to induce visions and spiritual enlightenment. These rituals varied in form and purpose, but they often symbolized a journey of initiation, achieving a new status or knowledge, and entering the mysteries of their respective practices.
Initiation and Symbolism
Initiation is discussed as a rite of passage in various traditions, including Christianity and witchcraft. The significance of symbols and rituals in initiation ceremonies is explored. The importance of the death and rebirth symbolism in initiation is highlighted, along with the concept of self-initiation. The podcast also touches on the idea of designing personal initiation rituals.
The Great Pyramid and Initiation
The podcast discusses Manly P. Hall's interpretation of the Great Pyramid of Giza as a temple of initiation. The pyramid's symbolism and its connection to rebirth and the acquisition of secret knowledge are explored. The significance of initiation as a personal transformation and the role of symbolism in powerful rituals are emphasized.
In this episode Hector and Luxa discuss initiation, self initiation, and rites of passage. We dig into some history as well as theory, and discuss our own experiences. For a bit of context, keep in mind that we recorded this episode last month (about half way through May of 2020), and the tone and the stuff we talk about in this episode reflects that. We hope you enjoy!
Thank you for listening to Fool's Guide to the Occult!
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If you are looking for some other fun stuff, check out my online shop at etsy.com/shop/magicknmetal where you can find troves of handmade leather and metal goods, radical patches, occult curios, and art. You can also follow mNm on insta @MagicAndMetal . Unfortunately I'm only able to ship within the US... for now.
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