Author and Dirt-Sorcerer Aidan Wachter joins the show to discuss spirits and magic. They explore personal beliefs, encounters with spirits, and the challenge of proving their existence. The episode also delves into Mongolian shamanism, obtaining information from the spirit world, and the connection between performance and spirits. They talk about adapting magic practices, adopting a magical viewpoint, and the importance of engaging with the spirit world.
Spirits are a central aspect of magic and their existence has persisted throughout history.
Personal experiences and connections with spirits go beyond what can be objectively measured or proven.
Animism recognizes the sentience and aliveness of various beings, highlighting interconnections beyond conventionally accepted realities.
Incorporating a spirit model into practice opens doors to profound insights, support, and personal growth.
Deep dives
Introduction and Special Guest
In this podcast episode, the host welcomes a special guest, Aiden Walker, an author, talismanic jeweler, and dirt sorcerer. The guest is known for his book 'Six Ways Approaches and Entries for Practical Magic', which the host highly recommends. The guest's unique perspective on magic and spirits brings a new dimension to the conversation.
Understanding Spirits and Their Nature
The podcast delves into the concept of spirits and their nature. The guest and the host discuss their personal encounters and experiences with spirits, emphasizing how spirits are central to their practices and rituals. While acknowledging that there may be different interpretations and theories about spirits, the guest remains open-minded, acknowledging that spirits are a phenomenon that can be felt, heard, and experienced in various ways.
Challenging Mainstream Beliefs
The conversation questions mainstream beliefs and norms, particularly the idea that evidence is the sole arbiter of what is real. The guest and the host explore the limitations of evidence-based perspectives, acknowledging that the human experience goes beyond what can be objectively measured or proven. They discuss the importance of personal experiences, empathizing that spirits are not easily defined or limited to scientific explanations.
The Significance of Animism in Understanding Spirits
The podcast explores the concept of animism and its role in understanding spirits. Animism is described as the overarching idea that many things, both observable and less visible, possess some form of sentience and aliveness. The guest emphasizes that animism acknowledges the existence of various beings that can be seen as potential allies or adversaries, and animism ultimately highlights the intricate interconnections and realities beyond what is conventionally accepted.
The Power of Spirits
Spirits play a crucial role in the realm of magic and sorcery. They are not solely a thing of the past, but continue to exist and influence our lives. While the spirit world may seem elusive and difficult to understand, it offers immense potential for personal growth and transformation.
The Language of Spirits
Spirits communicate with us through a unique language, which can be understood by developing a deeper connection with the unseen realm. This can be achieved through practices such as trance work, offering rituals, and engaging in creative visualization. By learning to understand and interpret this language, we can foster powerful relationships with spirits and tap into their wisdom and guidance.
The Benefits of a Spirit Model
Embracing a spirit model for magic and sorcery allows us to tap into a vast reservoir of knowledge and understanding. Spirits are not imaginary entities, but rather an essential part of the fabric of existence. They offer insights, support, and opportunities for personal growth. Incorporating a spirit model into our practice helps us navigate the complexities of the unseen world and harness its transformative powers.
The Mystery and Intrigue of Spirits
While the nature and origins of spirits may remain a mystery, their existence and impact on our lives cannot be denied. Exploring the world of spirits requires an open mind, a sense of curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. By cultivating a deep connection with spirits, we can access profound insights, engage in meaningful dialogue, and enhance our personal journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Many Magicians would say that one of the most important aspects of Magic is interacting with 'Spiritual Creatures.' The idea of Spirits being a part of this world and that there could be a 'Spirit World' has been with us far longer than it has not. Of course, the prevailing worldview of the last 300 years has done a fairly good job of attempting to demolish the idea that spirits have ever existed. Yet Spirits (or at least belief in them) has never gone away. In this Episode of WMiT? we are doing something a little bit different. To talk all things Spirit, we are joined by author and Dirt-Sorcerer Aidan Wachter.
