Occult of Personality podcast

Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.This is episode number 202, featuring an outstanding interview with Michael Martin about the revised version of The Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz and much more!Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site. This episode is also sponsored by several listeners who made generous donations to aid us and the cause of informed, authentic, and accessible interviews about western esotericism. Thank you again Martin, Andrew, David, and Judith! Because of your donations and the support of the subscribers to the Chamber of Reflection, we’re able to bring you interviews of this caliber and more to come.Now, in episode #202, Michael Martin joins us to discuss this recent version of The Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz which features two of his essays that recontextualize and add a much greater depth of meaning to the story. To put it briefly, my interpretation of Martin’s assertion is that the actual intention of the text was to allow readers to see through the attachments to pride, recognition, and knowledge, whether esoteric or mundane and gather themselves around a simpler spirituality that endeavors to see and understand the vast mystery of reality beyond any classification or even languaging.“The story is full of jokes, puzzles, satires, and red herrings—mostly at the expense of academic pride and the pretentions of occultists. Adding to the humor of The Chymical Wedding, most of the commentary written over the last five hundred years in hopes of probing its secrets has been of exactly the sort Andreae was pranking in the first place—which is why he described the book’s reception as “a game which was evaluated and foolishly explicated with subtle ingenuity and which proves the stupidity of the curios.” Indeed, some people don’t know a good joke when it’s played on them.“It is my contention that the playful construction of The Chymical Wedding is evidence of Andreae’s intention to apply physic to the soul of the reader. The text, that is, serves as what Stanley Fish (one of the great readers of seventeenth-century literature before he turned to law and the life of a public intellectual) has called “a self-consuming artifact,” which, as he further explains, “signifies most successfully when it fails, when it points away from itself to something its forms cannot capture. If this is not anti-art, it is surely anti-art-for-art’s sake because it is concerned less with the making of better poems than with the making of better persons.” As a self-consuming artifact, The Chymical Wedding—reveling in the high comedy of intellectual hubris, revealing its own “mysteries” despite its occult paraphernalia, and ever again reminding the reader to not rely on learning or the discovery of the secrets of nature as surrogates for salvation—tries to enact a transformation on the soul of the reader by destabilizing the reader’s preconceptions of what a “chemical wedding” is—or, for that matter, what a “Rosicrucian” is. The Chymical Wedding succeeds when it fails (the sham “lost ending” certainly supports this supposition) because if it had succeeded as an occult text it would have surely failed as physic for the soul. Herein lies the brilliance of Andreae’s ludibrium. That so many have missed what is so obvious only proves his point the more.” – Michael Martin, Introduction: “So unlooked for an adventure,” The Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz, The Ezekiel Foxcroft Translation, revised, and with two new essays by Michael Martin, 2019I think Martin’s work here is crucial and I am really thrilled to be able to talk to him about it and share that conversation with you! Although I wish I’d encountered Martin years ago when I first became interested in Rosicrucianism, but it seems fitting that it has taken until now. I would dare to say that his analysis is worth your time and consideration. It may even bring about new insights and different ways of appreciating western magick and esotericism. Related to Rosicrucianism, Michael also talks about Sophiology, a radical way of seeing and feeling the world as the deepest mystery of reality. A form of western nonduality if you will. Our conversation here only touches the tip of the iceberg of scholarship and mysticism that lay beneath… Michael Martin, Ph.D. is a philosopher, poet, musician, songwriter, editor, and biodynamic farmer. He spent sixteen years as a Waldorf teacher and Master Teacher and taught at the university and college level for over seventeen years. He began biodynamic farming in 1990 and currently raises dairy goats, bees, and other animals while managing a market garden with his wife and some of his nine children. His poetry and scholarship have appeared in many journals and he is the editor of Jesus the Imagination: A Journal of Spiritual Revolution. The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Wild Rose” by Barry Sulkin (https://magnatune.com/artists/albums/barrysulkin-isleofelba?song=11) In the Chamber of Reflection, author Allen Blackwell joins me to discuss his magical book of short stories, 26 Gates! Listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com or at our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . . https://www.thecenterforsophiologicalstudies.com/https://www.amazon.com/Chymical-Wedding-Christian-Rosenkreutz-translation/dp/1621384772https://www.thecenterforsophiologicalstudies.com/post/the-rose-and-the-cross-or-how-to-be-a-rosicrucianhttps://www.amazon.com/Submerged-Reality-Sophiology-Poetic-Metaphysics/dp/1621381137https://www.amazon.com/Michael-Martin/e/B00KHCTX04/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky and your co-host is Rudolf Berger.This is episode number 201, featuring an interview with Peter Mark Adams who returns to the show to discuss his recent book, Mystai: Dancing Out the Mysteries of Dionysos, published by Scarlet Imprint.Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site. Before we get to the show intro, I need to say a few words about our current circumstances. Probably like you, I’m now isolating in a sort of lockdown situation to prevent the spread of the COVID19 virus. I pray that you all stay well and are not too stressed by what is happening. The main point that I want to convey is that this situation, while unusual to us, doesn’t change the fundamental reality in which we exist. Our futures are always uncertain. We never know when the end may arrive. In fact, we all suffer from a fatal condition called beingness. As initiates, occultists, mystics, Freemasons, illuminists, and magicians, we are taught to meditate upon death and impermanence as a most effective way to transform from being self-concerned to caring about the world and others. We must hold this in our minds and always remember that a contagious disease spreading through our communities does not change the fact that we must do the right thing even though it requires courage to do so. Please be brave and know that you can put your spiritual practice to the test in these days. We have the capacity to control our reactions and decisions. Use that ability with wisdom and help those around you who need it. I encourage you to be tender-hearted and compassionate even more so than before. Spread that instead of fear. We must be the light and not just talk about it. So, in that spirit, beginning this week, I’ll be posting older content from the Chamber of Reflection archive publicly at no charge. I’ll offer a free recording each day of an older interview, presentation, or meditation. Links to this free content will be posted on the Occult of Personality Facebook page and our Twitter starting on Friday, March 27th. During this time when we’re adapting to new circumstances in various ways, the least I can do is offer you some additional content to fill your days with even more magick and mystery.Now, in episode #201, Peter Mark Adams returns to the show to discuss his wonderful book, Mystai. You can find Peter Mark Adams online at https://petermarkadams.com/. Peter appeared on the show previously to talk about his book, The Game of Saturn (https://occultofpersonality.net/peter-mark-adams/). “Peter Mark Adams is an author, esotericist, tarotist and professional energy worker; he has been engaged in practical research in the fields of esotericism, energy, consciousness and healing for over 45 years. Peter and his wife run a professional practice dedicated to energy-based healing. Previous publications include Altered States / Parallel Worlds, The Tarot de Marseille Chapbook, The Healing Field: Energy: Consciousness and Transformation; and contributions on ritual, demonic possession and interventions of the deceased in the healing process in the peer reviewed academic journals Paranthropology: Journal of Anthropological Approaches to the Paranormal and the Journal of Exceptional Experiences and Psychology. Peter has acted as an advisor to a television documentary on the paranormal and been a speaker at international academic seminars on healing and consciousness. Peter is an associate member of the European Society for the Study of Western Esotericism (ESSWE).”“The Dionysian themed frescos of Pompeii’s Villa of the Mysteries constitute the single most important theurgical narrative to have survived in the Western esoteric tradition. No other practitioner account of the ritual process for conducting a mystery rite has survived down to today. The frescoes’ vivid and allusive imagery illuminates both the ritual activity of the participants as well as its esoteric import. “The frescoes, created in the most private rooms of the extensive Roman villa, were never meant to be seen by anyone other than the members of the all-female Bakkhic thiasos who conducted their most secret rites within them. Buried and preserved for posterity by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 CE, these stunning Proto-Renaissance images guide the viewer through the consecutive stages of a theurgic rite of initiation into the mysteries of Dionysos. “Arising from within the unique interface between Greek and Roman culture in Southern Italy, the frescoes attest to the survival of an unbroken initiatic tradition of Bakkhic mystery rites on the Italian peninsula stretching back to the fifth century BCE. “The recent restoration of the frescoes has provided a fresh opportunity to elucidate the ritual processes hidden in plain sight. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, Peter Mark Adams draws on current scholarship on dithyrambic performance; the ritual dress of Greco-Roman priestesses; classical philology and the comparative ethnography of rites of higher initiation. With the same attention to detail which he demonstrated in The Game of Saturn, Adams reveals the stages of initiation encoded and accomplished in dance, gesture, ordeal, and sign. “Adams interprets the frescoes through the distinct performative lens of the ritualist, throwing light, for the first time, on the significance of the ritual vocabulary and the phenomenology of ritual participation. We are pulled into the dance ourselves and emerge transfigured by the experience.”I once again find myself very impressed by the work of Peter Mark Adams. In Mystai, Adams has revealed sacred imagery and its function within a long-dead lineage of the Mysteries. His skill in explaining the frescoes, their meanings, and purpose within the ritual context helps us understand this mystical system lost to the mists of time. In the interview, Adams explains how this cult functioned by ritually honoring the deity with a form of devotion that caused a mystical union. Peter Mark Adams has quickly become one of my favorite authors in this genre. His work is groundbreaking, and I always learn new things. Not to mention the book itself is gorgeous and because of the design, materials, colors, and contents, it felt like an indulgent luxury to sit and read it. I highly recommend Mystai!The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Calliopeia – kithara (Ancient Greek)” by Tim Rayborn (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/rayborn-qadim?song=6) In the Chamber of Reflection, Peter Mark Adams, Rudolf, and I continue this wonderful interview. Listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com or at our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. Again, beginning this week, I’ll be posting older content from the Chamber of Reflection archive publicly at no charge. During this time when we’re all struggling with time and money in various ways, the least I can do is offer you some additional content to fill your days with magick and mystery.I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . . https://scarletimprint.com/publications/mystaihttps://petermarkadams.com/https://occultofpersonality.net/peter-mark-adams/

Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.This is episode 199 featuring an interview with Jedediah French, co-editor of The Art and Science of Initiation, recently published by Lewis Masonic. https://www.lewismasonic.co.uk/esoteric/the-art-and-science-of-initiation.htm Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site. Bro. Jedediah French is a founding member of Templum Rosae Lodge, No. 863 in Oakland, California. His articles have been published in Masonic books and periodicals, including Philalethes: The Journal of Masonic Research and Letters, The Plumbline, and The Square. He won the Award of Literature for 2016 for his article in Philalethes. He blogs occasionally at “Esoteric Freemasonry and the Western Mystery Tradition.”I really love The Art and Science of Initiation. Jedediah French and Angel Millar have done a brilliant job putting it together. I highly recommend it. I also had a great time interviewing Jedediah, having known him for some time and following his work over the years. It’s been wonderful to watch him grow and it’s my pleasure to bring you this interview with him where we discuss his work on this essential new book. In the Chamber of Reflection, Jedediah French and I begin the second half of the interview by discussing his research into the Asiatic Brethren, Sabbatean Frankism, Lurianic Kabbalah, and high-degree European Freemasonry. Apparently, the Asiatic Brethren was largely responsible for the re-introduction of Kabbalism into western esotericism via ritual degree lectures and possibly angelic workings, a notable and important link between antinomian Jewish and Christian fraternal esotericism. Next, we delve into the potential differences between ancient and modern initiations to determine what might be the factors to increase the likelihood that initiations be the reality-shattering events that they have the potential to be. Listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . . https://www.lewismasonic.co.uk/esoteric/the-art-and-science-of-initiation.htm https://skfrench.wordpress.com/The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “The Initiation” by Adam Fielding (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/fielding-lightfields?song=1).

Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire at occultofpersonality.net. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.This is episode 198 featuring an interview with Angel Millar discussing his recent projects including his YouTube channel, The Spiritual Survival at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt1KUBeGisBawNuH3ksnIRQ. Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site. Angel Millar is the author of The Crescent and the Compass: Islam, Freemasonry, Esotericism, and Revolution in the Modern Age (2015), Freemasonry: Foundation of the Western Esoteric Tradition (2014), and Freemasonry: A History (2005). His writing has also been published in The Journal of Indo-European Studies, Quest magazine, and Philalethes: The Journal of Masonic Research, among others. His brilliant YouTube channel, The Spiritual Survival, as well as much of his work, is focused on the intersection of spirituality and self-mastery. He regularly inspires his audiences to work on self-mastery and uses his own experience and practices as a guide. I consider him a good friend and he’s one of my favorite guests.The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/avgerinos-gnosis?song=3) and the outro music is “Build” by Ernesto Schnack (http://magnatune.com/artists/albums/eschnack-wip?song=1). In the Chamber of Reflection, Angel Millar shares his insights about Freemasonry and the value of discipline and building a strong foundation for esoteric work. We also discuss his work understanding initiation and co-editing and writing for the new collection The Art and Science of Initiation, published by Lewis Masonic - https://www.lewismasonic.co.uk/esoteric/the-art-and-science-of-initiation.htm. We also discuss the proliferation of Freemasons focusing on the esoteric and the wide array of Masonic Cons cropping up around the United States. If you enjoyed the first half of this interview, be sure to listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! Thanks for listening and until next time . . . https://angelmillar.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt1KUBeGisBawNuH3ksnIRQhttps://www.lewismasonic.co.uk/esoteric/the-art-and-science-of-initiation.htmWhat is Counter Initiation? https://www.lewismasonic.co.uk/blog/what-is-counter-initiation.htm

Welcome to Occult of Personality: esoteric podcast extraordinaire at occultofpersonality.net. I’m your host, Greg Kaminsky.This is episode 197 featuring an interview with Craig Williams discussing his most recent book, Cult of Golgotha. Occult of Personality podcast is made possible by you, the listeners, and by the subscribers to https://chamberofreflection.com, our membership site. Our guest tonight is Craig Williams, returning to the show to discuss his most recent book, Cult of Golgotha, available from Anathema Publishing Ltd."Cult of Golgotha presents a mysterious and strange glimpse into a creative occult current of revealed gnostic expression: the alchemical cross-pollination of Tantric Physics and Esoteric Voudon. Gnostic Bishop Craig Williams reveals a systematic vista of quantum exploration within the Womb of the Dark Goddess and Her web-like reach into the elemental world of gnostic Voudon. "This text reveals the insidious Archonic Systems of Control which endangers the psyche and spirit of contemporary consciousness severing the individual from the chaotic and daemonic world of the Soul… This text expresses glimpses of a unique vision for escaping the Archonic forces impinging upon the mind-body of contemporary mankind and the vital role that the Awakened Dead play in the liberation of human consciousness from Ahrimaic manipulation." Craig Williams has delivered another occult classic! Cult of Golgotha is one of the more unique expressions of high occult strangeness that I’ve ever read. Hearkening back to the works of Michael Bertiaux and Kenneth Grant, Williams takes his readers into the heart of magical development by demonstrating the creative vision required to journey to the liminal realms and bring forth transformative potential. From Tantra to Voudon to the heart of western esotericism, Cult of Golgotha stretches both the esoteric landscape and the mind of the reader by introducing systems of occult science designed to awaken and liberate the practitioner using a variety of methods. The text also emphasizes the mental shackles that bind us and prevent our freedom. These systems of control and the methods to escape them deserve much greater study and attention. Be sure to get your copy of this wonderful book from Anathema Publishing Ltd. before it sells out.Practitioner of Ayurvedic medicine, Vedic sciences, gnostic spirituality, and martial arts, Craig Williams is also the author of Cave of The Numinous: Tantric Physics vol. I and Entering the Desert: Pilgrimage to the Hinterland of the Soul, as well as numerous articles on health, martial arts, and authentic initiation in the Kali Yuga.The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos and the outro music is “Dark Secret” by VSTRS.In the Chamber of Reflection, Craig Williams and I continue the interview delving deeply into discussions of tantra, magical yogic practices, systems of control, and much more! If you enjoyed the first half of this interview, be sure to listen to that exclusive recording at https://chamberofreflection.com. I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!Thanks for listening and until next time . . . https://www.anathemapublishing.com/cult-of-golgothahttp://www.ayurvedaaustin.com/http://occultofpersonality.net/eastern-thought-in-the-western-occult-world/https://occultofpersonality.net/craig-williams/https://occultofpersonality.net/voices-of-modern-gnosticism/http://occultofpersonality.net/craig-williams-cave-of-the-numinous/https://occultofpersonality.net/craig-williams-entering-the-desert/

This is episode 196 featuring an interview with C. R. Dunning, Jr., author of Contemplative Masonry: Basic Applications of Mindfulness, Meditation, and Imagery for the Craft. You can find Chuck Dunning online at https://chuckdunning.com/. "Chuck Dunning has been a Master Mason since 1988. Chuck is a Full Member of the Texas Lodge of Research and belongs to a number of other Masonic research societies. In the Scottish Rite, Chuck is a Knight Commander of the Court of Honor, Director of Education for the Guthrie Valley in Oklahoma, and a Class Director for the Fort Worth Valley in Texas. In 2012 he became the founding Superintendent of the Academy of Reflection, which is a chartered organization for Scottish Rite Masons wanting to integrate contemplative practice with their Masonic experience. Chuck is a member of the Society for Contemplative Mind in Higher Education and has been engaged in various forms of contemplative practice for over three decades. In his career in higher education and mental health, in Masonry, and with other groups and individuals, he facilitates and teaches mindfulness, meditation, and imagery to enhance peoples’ experiences of life in many ways. Chuck holds a master’s degree in counselor education and a bachelor’s degree in psychology, both from the University of North Texas."Part of the work that has become Contemplative Masonry first appeared on the internet in 2000 as an anonymously authored guide to the exploration of Freemasonry through contemplative practices like prayer, meditation, breath work, chanting, and visualization. Sixteen years later, the original author of that material, C.R. “Chuck” Dunning, Jr., has come forward with a substantially expanded edition for those seeking to utilize Masonic symbolism and teachings in a way that is practical, accessible, inspiring, and profoundly transformative. Contemplative Masonry is a much-needed resource for Masons seeking to undertake the challenging and rewarding work of deep self-knowledge and self-improvement. Brother Dunning provides Freemasons with a unique system of practices derived directly from the Degrees of Craft Masonry, without reliance upon other religious, spiritual, or esoteric traditions. He also shares the valuable wisdom and insights that come from decades of personal experience with contemplative practices."I found Chuck Dunning’s Contemplative Masonry to be a much-needed guide to using Masonic degree lectures, symbols, and teachings in a classic, structured meditative practice designed to provide understanding of the knowledge presented in Masonic degrees and thereby further the growth and maturation process. If you have any esoteric leanings as a Mason, Dunning’s book is not only required reading, but should be put into daily practice. I was impressed not only with the book, but also with Dunning’s commitment to further Masonic education and deepen the experience and understanding of Masonry. I think you will be as well.In the Chamber of Reflection, Rudolf and I continue the interview with Chuck Dunning. We delve more deeply into contemplative Masonry and Chuck shares some eminently practical advice.I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you! https://chuckdunning.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Contemplative-Masonry-Applications-Mindfulness-Meditation/dp/1605320757/ https://academyofreflection.org/ https://www.phoenixmasonry.org/contemplative_masonry.htm The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos and the outro music is “Build” by Ernesto Schnack.

Gabriel McCaughry, founder of Anathema Publishing Ltd. (https://www.anathemapublishing.com/) and author of (h)Auroræ is our guest in podcast episode 195. This is a special two-part episode and you will find the second half available at Rudolf’s Thoth-Hermes podcast at https://www.thothermes.com/."Gabriel McCaughry is the founder, editor, publisher, and contributing writer to Anathema's PILLARS occult periodical, Gabriel has fully overseen the creation and publishing of several well-respected esoteric titles including Craig Williams' Entering the Desert and Cult of Golgotha."A pilgrim in the Mystery Tradition, Gabriel is deeply fascinated with all subjects relating to Alchemy, Hermeticism, and the Nameless Arte . . . he walks the Path of a Luciferian Gnostic. His systemic (albeit very personal and customized) approach to praxes and devotion stems from a profound love . . . ""(h)Auroræ is Gabriel McCaughry’s first published manuscript – a tome which correlates directly with Anathema Publishing’s mandate, along with his unique views and methodologies on alchemical book-making. This is very much a continuation in the spirit of his previous contributions to the PILLARS occult periodical (and elsewhere), but within (h)Auroræ, these concepts are fully developed and actualized."(h)Auroræ, an exploration of the Gabriel McCaughry’s devotion to mystical alchemy is replete with cryptic verse, beautiful production, wonderful esoteric art and symbols all synthesized in an act of devotion to the quest for the Great Mystery. McCaughry’s book, like all of those he produces for Anathema Publishing, is an exemplar in terms of modern esoteric publishing. The artwork, fonts, paper, and book craftsmanship are exquisite. (h)Auroræ brings the tradition of cryptic alchemical texts into the twenty-first century with grace and beauty.In the Chamber of Reflection, Rudolf and I ruminate over the recent interview with Mark Stavish about his book on egregores in a rather interesting conversation about humanity’s place in the scheme of things. And the member’s Q&A with Frater Ashen Chassan has been recorded and should be available in early February. Finally, our discussion circle around P.D. Ouspensky’s excellent book The Psychology of Man’s Possible Evolution is ongoing and the audio of the third lecture with discussion questions will be ready soon.I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!https://www.anathemapublishing.com/hauroraehttps://www.anathemapublishing.com/gabriel-mccaughryintro music - "Awakening" by Paul Avgerinosoutro music - "Tending the Light" by Ghost of Maine

Mark Stavish, author of Egregores: The Occult Entities That Watch Over Human Destiny, is our guest in podcast episode 194.Mark Stavish, the Director of Studies for the Institute for Hermetic Studies and a life-long student of esotericism with over 35 years of experience in comparative religion, philosophy, psychology, and mysticism with emphasis on Western spiritual traditions. He has authored more than 26 books including The Path of Alchemy and Kabbalah for Health and Wellness. Stavish is also the author of the blog VOXHERMES at https://voxhermes.wordpress.com/.In this wide-ranging and extended interview, Mark Stavish and I discuss his recent book, Egregores, and a myriad of related subjects including eastern religion, the relationship between divinity, deity, and humanity, the modern political landscape and the interface with esoteric belief systems, and much more! “One of most important but little-known concepts of Western occultism is that of the egregore, an autonomous psychic entity created by a collective group mind. An egregore is sustained by belief, ritual, and sacrifice and relies upon the devotion of a group of people, from a small coven to an entire nation, for its existence. An egregore that receives enough sustenance can take on a life of its own, becoming an independent deity with powers its believers can use to further their own spiritual advancement and material desires. “Presenting the first book devoted to the study of egregores, Mark Stavish examines the history of egregores from ancient times to present day, with detailed and documented examples, and explores how they are created, sustained, directed, and destroyed. He explains how egregores were well known in the classical period of ancient Greece and Rome, when they were consciously called into being to watch over city states. He explores the egregore concept as it was understood in various Western Mystery traditions, including the Corpus Hermeticum, and offers further examples from Tibetan Buddhism, Islam, modern esoteric orders such as the Order of the Golden Dawn and Rosicrucianism, the writings of H. P. Lovecraft and Kenneth Grant, and the followers of Julius Evola and Aleister Crowley. The author discusses how, even as the fundamental principles of the egregore were forgotten, egregores continue to be formed, sometimes by accident. “Stavish provides instructions on how to identify egregores, free yourself from a parasitic and destructive collective entity, and destroy an egregore, should the need arise. Revealing how egregores form the foundation of nearly all human interactions, the author shows how egregores have moved into popular culture and media--underscoring the importance of intense selectivity in the information we accept and the ways we perceive the world and our place in it.”Mark Stavish's book Egregores is well-researched, very interesting, and thought-provoking. For all those interested in esotericism, I would consider it a must-read. I found it to be quite timely as well considering his approach juxtaposed with current events. While I did not agree with the premise completely in regards to whether deity is a subset of humanity, Stavish's book would certainly be a worthwhile addition to any occult library and as far as I know, it is the only serious treatment of the subject that I've read. I appreciated the opportunity to discuss it with Mr. Stavish at length during this interview.Just as an aside, it was not as easy as you might imagine to bring you this interview. We must have rescheduled more than half a dozen times for various reasons. Then on the day of the recording, my co-host Rudolf was unable to attend. Immediately after finishing the recording, my computer crashed. But we have persevered to provide you with an extended and quite excellent interview. Enjoy!The intro music is “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinos and the outro music is “I Watch Over You” by Federico Moscogiuri.In the Chamber of Reflection, we’ve begun our study circle around P.D. Ouspensky’s excellent book The Psychology of Man’s Possible Evolution! This wonderful little text contains transcriptions of a few of Ouspensky’s lectures based on the teachings of G.I. Gurdjieff and contains some marvelous insights into the human condition. Join us to read and discuss a lesser-known book that holds great potential to unlock our understanding of our own minds and how to begin the process of transformation.And I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!Egregores: The Occult Entities That Watch Over Human Destiny by Mark Stavish - https://www.amazon.com/Egregores-Occult-Entities-Watch-Destiny/dp/1620555778Institute for Hermetic Studies - http://www.hermeticinstitute.org/

This is episode 193 featuring an interview with my good friend Rudolf Berger, co-host of Occult of Personality podcast and the host of the Thoth-Hermes podcast.Known on the internet by his pseudonym Gnothi Seauton, Rudolf is the producer and host of the Thoth-Hermes Podcast, which can be found at http://www.thothermes.com. He can also be heard as my co-host on the Occult of Personality podcast. Rudolf has been interested in the world of esotericism and occultism for over three decades. A Freemason for more than a quarter of a century and a member of the Scottish Rite, his first interest in esoteric sciences came about when reading books by Rudolf Steiner. Later, after experiences in shamanism, Theosophy and ritual magic, he broadened his knowledge and personal involvement to many fields of the Western esoteric tradition.Today Rudolf calls himself a “gnostic Hermeticist” with a very strong link to ceremonial magic. He is also greatly interested in sacred geometry and the implication of sound and music in the occult arts. “The longer I am active in this field, the clearer it becomes to me how closely linked many of those currents are, how their roots and aims are one”, Rudolf says. He is practicing the art mostly as a solitary worker but maintains links to several occult groups.In the profane world Rudolf has been working very successfully in the field of the performing arts. He initially trained as an actor, speaker and opera singer, then mostly worked as artistic director and producer in the world of classical music and opera. Recently he quit the management field to place himself more extensively again on the creative side, mainly in writing and directing. And he has taken on the work of a funeral celebrant, trying to help the bereaved by creating and leading personal ceremonies to honor their beloved ones. Rudolf lives near beautiful Vienna, Austria.You can contact him by email at info@thothermes.com, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thpodcast/ and Twitter @thothermesat.In the Chamber of Reflection, we continue this fascinating interview with Rudolf Berger. He talks more about Thoth-Hermes podcast and revitalization of the esoteric environment in Europe, his involvement with the Fraternitas Saturni, his appreciation for the Hermetic teachings of Franz Bardon, and more. Join us for that fascinating conversation!And I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!

Josef Wäges, the preeminent scholar studying the Order of the Illuminati, and a prominent Freemason, joins us in podcast episode 192 to discuss the history of the Order of the Illuminati, its founder Adam Weishaupt, the Freemasonic associations of the order, and its downfall, along with Josef’s work editing the newly released collected works of Weishaupt consisting of writings that supplement and enhance the original Order of the Illuminati degree rituals and doctrines. For more information about these books, go to https://maltaminervaleditions.com. Adam Weishaupt founded the Order of the Illuminati on May 1st, 1776 and was the general of the order until mid-1784. On Materialism and Idealism was first published by Weishaupt in 1786 and has long been considered to be one of his philosophical works. After the publication of the Secret School of Wisdom, the Authentic Ritual and Doctrines of the Illuminati, it has been discovered to in fact be the completion of the Docetist degree of the Illuminati. This degree was the second highest degree in the ritual system of the Illuminati and contemplates the existence of God and the immortality of the soul through logical secular reasoning. This refined and completed philosophical treatise was originally intended to be read by a select few within the inner circle of the Order.It is an honor and a privilege for me to be able to bring you this interview with Josef Wäges. While some information about the Order of the Illuminati has been widely known for hundreds of years, it wasn’t until the first book Josef edited, The Secret School of Wisdom, was released that we got a glimpse of the rituals and doctrines of the order. Now, with the release of Weishaupt’s collected works, we get the actual writings that describe the philosophy that Weishaupt believed in so greatly providing insights heretofore unimaginable. It was a great pleasure to speak with Josef about his study of this work and gain a greater understanding of the order and the man behind it to such a degree that it is no longer possible to consider it in the superficial way that it has so often been portrayed. Josef deserves credit for uncovering one of the historical mysteries of Western secret societies and if you are interested in this subject, you need these books from https://maltaminervaleditions.com. No other source can compare.Josef Wäges, 32° Freemason, is a member of the Blue Friars, member of Plano Lodge #768, Fate Lodge #802, the Dallas Valley of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry (Southern Jurisdiction), Fellow of the Grand College of Rites, full member of the Texas Lodge of Research, Michigan Lodge of Research, and life member of the Missouri Lodge of Research. Editor of The Secret School of Wisdom, the Authentic Rituals and Doctrines of the Illuminati, and On Materialism and Idealism, he is currently preparing the forthcoming books: Ecossais Masonry: A History of the High Degrees from the Scots Master to the Order of the Royal Secret for Scottish Rite Research Society, The Columbian Illuminati, and The Improved System of the Illuminati.In the Chamber of Reflection, our membership website, we continue this fascinating interview with Josef Wäges, delving even more deeply into his research on Adam Weishaupt and the Order of the Illuminati. It’s wonderful to explore the history and philosophy of the Illuminati with new information so many years after its dissolution and Josef shares his learned insights with us. Join us for that fascinating and important conversation!And I’d like to remind you that although you’re able to listen to this podcast at no charge, it costs time and money to create. We ask you to support our efforts and the creation of future podcasts by joining the membership section at https://chamberofreflection.com or subscribing via Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/occultofpersonality. And if you’re already supporting the show or have done so in the past – my heartfelt thanks and I salute you!Thanks for listening and until next time . . .intro music – “Awakening” by Paul Avgerinosoutro music – “illuminated path” by ketsa