Category Archives: Reviews

Between Scholarship and Devotion: A Personal Exploration of Kali Magic

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Kali Magic by Mike Magee

ISBN 9781916236622

A Gateway to Kali’s Mysteries

Reading Kali Magic by Mike Magee felt like stepping into an entirely new dimension of spirituality. The book presents Kali’s mysteries and Tantric practices in a way that feels both reverent and refreshingly authentic, especially considering how easily this subject can be misunderstood or misrepresented in Western contexts. Magee’s approach to Kali—rooted in decades of dedication and deep respect for the original Tantric texts—brings to life practices that feel genuinely connected to their ancient roots.

Structure and Sacred Texts: A Path to Practice

Magee organises the book into two primary sections: “Sadhana,” which teaches practical ritual work, and “Tantras,” where he offers rare translations of some powerful Tantric texts, like the Yoni Tantra. I found the sections on mantras and yantras especially engaging because they go beyond intellectual analysis and encourage direct, respectful engagement with these practices. The detailed rituals and beautifully illustrated yantras by Jan Bailey add a layer of mysticism that makes the reader feel like they’re part of something incredibly sacred.

This isn’t a simple, entry-level book; it’s clear that Kali Magic demands commitment and focus. But that’s also what makes it feel so rewarding. As I read, I appreciated how Magee avoided the “consumerist appropriation” that often accompanies texts on these topics. His work invites readers into a space where they can explore Kali’s fierce yet nurturing aspects without diluting her power. For anyone interested in Tantric practice or Hindu spirituality Magee’s book stands out as both a powerful spiritual guide and a scholarly work. 

Exploring Kali’s Dual Nature: Embracing Destruction and Renewal

Adding to the richness of Kali Magic is how Magee’s translations highlight Kali’s complex dual nature—both fierce and compassionate. His exploration of the goddess’s symbolism, particularly through her association with destruction and renewal, is profound and nuanced. Magee doesn’t shy away from Kali’s darker aspects, including practices that may seem intense or unsettling to a Western audience, such as blood offerings and ritual intoxication. However, he presents these elements with cultural sensitivity, allowing readers to appreciate their symbolic meanings rather than judge them through a modern or Western lens. This approach makes the book a valuable resource for anyone hoping to understand the depth and diversity within Tantric traditions.

Goddess Kali, British Museum.

Goddess Kali, British Museum.

 

Magee’s commitment to authenticity also means that Kali Magic is more than just a guidebook—it’s an invitation to a lifelong spiritual journey. The book not only encourages readers to explore these practices but also emphasises the importance of respecting and fully engaging with them. His inclusion of practical exercises and meditative techniques offers readers a way to incorporate these rituals into their own spiritual lives thoughtfully and meaningfully. Overall, Kali Magic is a rare and illuminating read that bridges scholarly rigour with deep spiritual insight, making it an essential addition to the library of any serious seeker or practitioner interested in the mystic path of Kali and Tantric philosophy.

Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to Kali worship, Kali Magic offers something rare and meaningful. It’s not just a book; it’s an experience and one that can deeply influence your spiritual journey.

 

New Aeon Tantra: Gregory Peters’ Fusion of Eastern and Western Spirituality

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In a world increasingly craving authenticity and deeper connections, the spiritual landscape is evolving in fascinating ways. New Aeon Tantra: Gregory Peters’ Fusion of Eastern and Western Spirituality is a groundbreaking approach crafted by visionary author and teacher Gregory Peters. This innovative fusion of Eastern wisdom and Western philosophy challenges traditional boundaries, inviting seekers to embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and holistic harmony. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just curious about what spirituality can offer in today’s fast-paced society, join us as we delve into the heart of New Aeon Tantra. This unique synthesis promises enlightenment and practical tools for everyday living. 

Introduction: New Aeon Tantra: Gregory Peters’ Fusion of Eastern and Western Spirituality

In a world where spirituality often feels fragmented, Gregory Peters emerges as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern practice. His book, New Aeon Tantra, invites readers to explore profound concepts blending Eastern philosophies with Western magical traditions. With roots in Tantra’s rich heritage and Thelema’s rebellious spirit, this work does more than educate; it transforms how we perceive our spiritual journeys. 

Gregory Peters is a renowned scholar and practitioner of Tantra, Thelema, and other esoteric traditions. He has studied and practised these disciplines for over 20 years, and his work reflects a deep understanding of their core principles. Peters is the founder of the Ordo Sunyata Vajra, an esoteric order that seeks to synthesise Eastern and Western spiritual practices.

Peter’s writing style is clear and easy to understand, making complex ideas comprehensible for readers at all levels. His approach to spirituality is practical and adaptable, encouraging individuals to find their unique path rather than conforming to rigid belief systems.

Gregory Peters, a teacher, author, and spiritual guide, inspires many through his books, lectures, workshops, and retreats.

New Aeon Tantra offers a modern interpretation of ancient wisdom traditions and is essential for anyone seeking spiritual enlightenment.

What is Tantra: Explaining the concept and its origins

Tantra is an ancient spiritual tradition that emerged in India around the 5th century. It intertwines philosophy, ritual, and meditation to foster a deeper connection with the self and the universe.

At its core, Tantra views reality as interconnected. This perspective encourages practitioners to embrace life in all its forms—physical, emotional, and spiritual. Rather than shying away from desires or worldly experiences, Tantra invites exploration of them for personal growth.

The roots of Tantra can be traced back to texts like the Vedas and Upanishads. However, it evolved significantly through various schools of thought over centuries. Hinduism and Buddhism both adopted elements of Tantric practice but adapted them according to their unique philosophies.

This rich tapestry has led to diverse interpretations across cultures while maintaining its foundational goal: liberation through conscious awareness. 

Tantra places a strong emphasis on understanding and working with energy. This includes the flow of prana (life force energy) throughout the body, as well as the exchange of energies between individuals and the universe. Through practices such as breathwork, meditation, and mantra chanting, Tantra aims to harness and direct this energy for spiritual growth.

One of the key concepts in Tantra is the union of masculine and feminine energies. This is often depicted symbolically through the image of Shiva (male) and Shakti (female) in a divine dance. Practitioners strive to balance these energies within themselves, acknowledging that both are necessary for wholeness and true enlightenment.

Another important aspect of Tantra is its approach to sexuality. While many people associate Tantra solely with sexual practices, it encompasses much more than that. Tantra sees sexuality as a natural and vital part of the human experience that can be used for spiritual growth when approached with intention, awareness, and unconditional love.

In essence, Tantra is a path towards greater self-awareness and connection with the universe. It offers tools for personal transformation and spiritual evolution while emphasizing embracing all aspects of life with mindfulness and reverence.

 

The New Aeon: Understanding the connection between Tantric and Thelemic traditions

The concept of the New Aeon is a central theme in both Tantric and Thelemic traditions. It refers to a new phase in human evolution and consciousness, which was prophesied by Aleister Crowley and other spiritual leaders. This new era is defined by a shift toward self-discovery, individualism, and the realisation of the divine within oneself.

Tantra, an ancient Indian spiritual tradition, emphasises the union of opposites as a means of achieving enlightenment. This includes uniting the masculine and feminine energies within oneself, as well as merging with the divine energy or consciousness. Tantra also values experimentation and exploration as a way to break free from societal norms and limitations.

On the other hand, Thelema, founded by Aleister Crowley in the early 20th century, focuses on finding one’s true will or purpose in life. It also promotes self-knowledge and forging a personal connection with divinity through ritual practices.

Gregory Peters’ philosophy of New Aeon Tantra combines elements from both Tantric and Thelemic traditions to create a unique approach to spirituality. His teachings emphasise embracing both light and dark aspects of our being to fully integrate all parts of ourselves.

Peters asserts that this integration is necessary for reaching true enlightenment in this new age. By understanding our duality and working towards unifying it, we can awaken our true potential and purpose in life.

Another significant aspect of New Aeon Tantra is its focus on sexual energy as a powerful force for transformation. This aligns with traditional tantric beliefs about harnessing sexual energy for spiritual growth.

Through various practices such as meditation, ritual magic, creative expression, breathwork, and sacred sexuality rituals; practitioners can access their inner power to manifest their desires and connect with the divine within.

Moreover, New Aeon Tantra embraces technology and modern advancements as tools for spiritual growth. This is in line with the concept of the New Aeon, which is said to be characterised by rapid progress and change.

The fusion of Tantric and Thelemic traditions in New Aeon Tantra offers a unique perspective on spirituality that embraces individualism, self-discovery, and harnessing inner power through integration. It provides a powerful framework for navigating this new age of human consciousness.

 

Gregory Peter’s Unique Perspective: Detailed analysis of how this book differs from other works on Tantra

Gregory Peters offers a fresh lens on Tantra, setting his work apart from traditional texts. While many authors focus solely on the sensual aspects of Tantric practices, Peters delves into its philosophical roots. He interweaves concepts of consciousness and liberation throughout the narrative.

His approach is remarkably integrative. By marrying Eastern philosophies with Western spiritual frameworks, he creates a dialogue between diverse traditions. This fusion invites readers to explore their own beliefs in new ways.

Unlike other works that may gloss over complexities, Peters encourages deep reflection and personal insight. His writing challenges the reader to engage actively with these ideas rather than passively consume them.

Key Themes Explored: Highlighting important ideas and concepts discussed in the book such as liberation, consciousness, and magickal practices

At the heart of New Aeon Tantra lies the theme of liberation. Peters invites readers to shed societal constraints and explore true freedom through Tantric practices. This journey isn’t just physical; it’s an awakening of the spirit.

Consciousness emerges as another vital concept. Gregory emphasizes expanding awareness, allowing individuals to tap into deeper layers of their being. The exploration leads to profound self-discovery and transformation.

Magickal practices make a striking appearance too. Here, Peters intertwines ritualistic elements with spiritual pursuits, showcasing how intention can shape reality. It becomes clear that these rituals are not merely performative but deeply imbued with meaning.

Throughout the book, these themes resonate harmoniously, inviting practitioners to embrace a holistic approach towards spirituality that transcends cultural boundaries and personal limitations.

Eastern and Western Influences: Examining the fusion of Eastern Tantric practices with Western Thelemic principles

The fusion of Eastern Tantric practices with Western Thelemic principles creates a fascinating tapestry of spirituality. In New Aeon Tantra, Gregory Peters delves into this intersection, revealing how these seemingly disparate traditions can harmonise.

Tantra emphasises experiential knowledge and the sacredness of energy within the body. It invites practitioners to explore their consciousness deeply. This approach is complemented by Thelema’s focus on individual will and personal empowerment.

Peters illustrates how rituals from both traditions can coexist, enriching spiritual journeys. For example, visualisation techniques in Tantra align seamlessly with Thelemic magickal practices that harness willpower for manifestation.

This blending encourages openness to various pathways toward enlightenment. As readers engage with these concepts, they discover tools for greater self-awareness and transformation beyond traditional boundaries.

Personal review of ‘New Aeon Tantra’ 

New Aeon Tantra by Gregory Peters, is the book I’ve been searching for a long time. Gregory’s clear and reflective writing style, combined with his extensive knowledge of the Tantric tradition, guides the practices within this unique magical system.

One of the strengths of this book is Peters’ clear and concise writing style. He effectively communicates complex concepts without overwhelming the reader or losing their interest. He avoids using complicated or obscure language. which can be off-putting for some readers.

Furthermore, Peters dives deep into the history and origins of tantra while still making strong connections to contemporary life. He includes personal anecdotes and reflections throughout the book which adds a level of authenticity to his teachings. 

One particular aspect that stood out for me while reading New Aeon Tantra is how Peters emphasises self-discovery rather than blindly following dogmas or rituals. He encourages readers to find their own path towards enlightenment through introspection, mindfulness, and meditation. This approach sets this book apart from others in its genre as it promotes critical thinking instead of blind faith.

New Aeon Tantra had a profound impact on me as a reader. It challenged my preconceived notions about tantra and introduced me to a more inclusive and diverse form of spiritual practice. Peters’ fusion of Eastern and Western spirituality is seamless, making this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to embark on their own spiritual journey.”

I would highly recommend New Aeon Tantra to anyone interested in exploring the intersection of Eastern and Western spirituality. It is an insightful and thought-provoking read that has the potential to significantly impact the lives of its readers.

Get your copy of New Aeon Tantra here

 

 

Yogini Magic

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Yogini Magic

The Sorcery, Enchantment, And Witchcraft of The Divine Feminine

By Gregory Peters

ISBN: 9781618697257

U.S. Price $24.95

When I heard about the release of Yogini Magic by Gregory Peters, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. As I was already in the process of writing my book Aromagick, I knew that Yogini Magic would provide valuable insights into the Kalas and shed light on the more enigmatic aspect of the Yoginis. My understanding of the Kalas/Yoginis was based on classical texts and Kenneth Grant’s theories on “Lunar Perfume,” as well as my own practical and intuitive experiences through meditation, dreams, and heightened sense of smell. When I finally received a copy of Yogini Magic, I was deeply immersed in my own “Kala Magic” and didn’t want any outside influences to interfere with my experiences. Thus, I decided to postpone reading it until after completing Aromagick. In the meantime, I placed Yogini Magic on my altar alongside my collection of perfumes dedicated to the Kalas I was currently working with. This allowed me to continue writing about my encounters without interruption.

It was only after reaching out to Ugraprabha that I decided to seek Gregory’s thoughts on her. My past encounters with Yoginis have shown that when you are ready, one of them will find a way to connect with you. Nityaklinna, for instance, appeared in my dreams for months before I mustered the courage to engage with her and learn from her wisdom and sorcery. Once I opened the ‘gate’ and reached out to her, other yoginis quickly followed suit (at times, it felt like a flood of them entering through the gate, which can be quite overwhelming…)

Upon meeting Ugra, I was struck by a sense of familiarity. But when I tried to connect with her sister, Ugraprabha, I was disappointed to find that we did not share the same connection. Despite my efforts to gather information about her, I came up empty-handed (perhaps due to searching in the wrong places). At times, it seemed as if she was annoyed with me for reasons unknown and other times, I felt frustrated that there was something right in front of me that I couldn’t see. In light of this, I have decided to turn to Gregory Peters’ Yogini Magic for insights on her.

As I flipped through the book, it was clear that this was a must-read for me as there were countless useful insights within its pages. In the first section, Yogini Magic delves into the origins and development of Yogini worship and lineage. With his simple and approachable writing, Gregory introduces us to The Sahaja Matrikas and explains in easy-to-understand terms the concept of Who are the Yoginis – something I had struggled with for a long time and am still learning. Chapter 4 offers practical meditation techniques and pranayama for daily use, followed by an exploration of sound sorcery in Chapter 5. Then, in Chapter 7, we are introduced to the powerful tools and energies of the Yogini stones and how to utilize them. I was particularly drawn to this concept and have already started collecting some stones myself.

In the second half of the book, we are guided through the practical use of various techniques such as sigils, day magic, and working with dreams. We also learn about opening the Yogini circle and how to approach The Crossroad in our magical practice. Each chapter offers valuable insights and leads us on a personal journey of initiation into the magic of the Yoginis.

Personally, chapter 16 and the author’s depictions of the Yoginis had a profound impact on my understanding and practice. The vivid descriptions and personal gnosis brought about by both left a lasting impression, greatly transforming my relationship with these mystical beings.

Gregory Peters’ portrayal of Ugraprabha provided the final motivation for me to complete Aromagick. In my quest for knowledge on Ugraprabha, I felt as though I was overlooking a crucial element that was right in front of me.

Gregory wrote about her “Sometimes she appears with the head of a fox…” 

For me, an initiate of the Fox Magic cult, this single sentence offers a complex understanding of the intricacies and mysteries surrounding the sorcery of the Fox, Yogini, and Lalita’s never-ending game.

Ugraprabha, an AI image inspired by Gregory Peters’ vision

Ugraprabha, an AI image inspired by Gregory Peters’ vision

Diti J Morgan is the Author of Aromagick: A Scentual Guide to The Kalas And The 8 Colours of Magick  

Wolfman Denny Sargent reviews Fox Magic

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Fox Magic – Handbook of Chinese Witchcraft and Alchemy in the Fox Tradition

Jason Read

978-1-914153-07-5 (pbk) 168pp

UK £15.00+p&p Order

USA $22.00+p&p Order

Ebook Order

Special “Altar” edition, jacketed case laminate, colour images

978-1-914153-08-2 (Jacketed cased laminate) 172pp

£30 UK Order

$40 USA Order

Fox Magick is both delightful and unusual in that it covers a fascinating and rarely discussed Fox spirit/deity rooted in China and Japan and which is honoured as both. To clarify the Fox goddess began as an animistic spirit which, in various places and forms was later also worshipped as a goddess. I am pleased to review and recommend this fascinating book because I am particularly interested in this entity because I lived in Japan for four years, studied and then wrote a book about Shinto, and became intimately familiar with the Fox spirit Kitsune and her deity form Inari Sama. 

Kitsune was seen there as Inari’s avatar or familiar but sometimes Inari appeared in the form of the nine-tailed Kitsune fox. I knew that this remarkable divine spirit had originally come from China, but knew nothing much about its origins and was delighted to get this book and learn so much more about her and her ancient origins and connections with the Taoist magick of China.

Jason Read has done an expert job walking the reader through the vast kaleidoscopic myths, legends and magical practices of the ‘Fox Magic’ cults and sorcery as well as the beliefs, myths and practices still alive today in China by a variety of sects and lineages. Spirits and deities do evolve in time and his description of this is well done and fascinating for I am a devotee of such things.

The beginning drops us right into the legends of the fox spirit in China and then offers a related segway into the fox spirit in Japan, showing one of the Inari shrines with fox guardians I know so well. As is common in Asia, such spirits and deities are not all good or all bad, and the dark fox spirits are discussed both thoroughly and in-depth as entities that can possess and manipulate people. Mr Read really dives deeply into the subject of many sorts of legends and continually broadens and organizes what is clearly his vast knowledge of the subject in a clear and interesting manner. He weaves this with his knowledge of Taoism, Chinese magic and much more. As a Tantric, I was surprised to discover that the Fox spirit originated with the Dakini which had never occurred to me! This was a fantastic and important intercultural connection and was riveting. I was also amazed by his explanation of the evolution of the fox spirit as it was elevated to being a deity, the fox goddess Hu Xian (later Hu Li Jing). As such evolution is common in Shinto and other spiritual practices. The stories about the Japanese Kitsune and the kitsunebi were familiar to me, but seeing the interconnections between earlier Chinese beliefs and their spread into Japan was particularly fascinating. Mr Read’s writing style is clear, concise, full of information and also easy to follow as he navigates complex myths, legends, practices and histories. A big plus for me were the rites and spells associated with The Fox spirit/deity in both China and Japan, all were completely new to me! This final section of the book is filled with clear, applicable and fascinating glyphs, sigils, rites and clear instructions and explanations of the various magickal systems for the working with Fox deity. I can not recommend this book highly enough and this book should become part of your library.

I am thankful to be given a chance to read and interview this book! I have recently written books on the animistic wolf spirit and its evolution into wide-ranging cults and magick and will admit that this book delighted me to no end as a fellow devotee of feral spirits and entities

Denny Sargent

www.feralmagick.com

Overcoming Apep

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Part of my day job is reading and editing books, recently I was preparing the ebook edition of Seth & The Two Ways (Morgan 2019). Reading Appendix 2 – Book(s) of Overthrowing Apep (Bremner Rhind Papyrus 3), a papyrus found in Thebes (in Upper Egypt), probably from the tomb of a priest from the Ptolemaic period, filled with the most powerful and hostile of curses. To get the editing job done, I had to read the nine books in one go. Working on these texts I noticed a strange feeling creeping over me. As I read the first two books, I felt upset and unsettled, as if the disturbing words of the text caught me off guard and were now literally directed toward me. By the time I got to book three, the heavy feeling of despair changed to something else, difficult to describe. By books three and four, I could feel a surge of energy shooting up and down my spine and I could sense a powerful circle forming around me. When I started book five, The Book of Knowing The Creation Of Ra And Of Overthrowing Apep, I could almost see the circle of power enclosing me, on all sides. I felt protected and at the same time strong and ready, but for what?

By the time I finished reading book six, I had an insight into the nature of cursing and the importance of the god Seth in Egyptian Cosmology and its pantheons.

The ninth book vibrates the victorious rhythms of mission accomplished, the priest ferried through the most horrendous and atrocious curses, his spirit never failing, his heart never broken, his body fully charged with the primaeval power of the ancient serpent that vibrates with the secrets of creation. He is one with the Dark Lord, with the Red God, with the Black power of the North, he is ready to take on the ancient worm.

By the time I finished reading the ninth book, I felt powerful, strong, determined, and mighty. I was ready to slay a dragon.

Most of the curses and “grimoires” we are familiar with are working on a very specific psychological level – earthy and primal, to intimidate and bully a person, in the most extreme and influential ways, to make them believe they are cursed. As we know, this power is indisputable and when a person believes in something, it can be nearly impossible to argue with them or to change their minds.

This type of cursing is directed straight to the emotional centre, resonating with the lower and earthly vibrations to cause fear and upheaval in the lives of the ‘victim’. On the other hand, the person who does the cursing is as much trapped in the emotional realm of aggression and intimidation as the target is. 

In order to curse an awesome and primaeval power such as Apep, the priest who conducted the ritual, needed to be as strong and as powerful as Apep, probably stronger. 

I have come to believe that the Book(s) of Overthrowing Apep was meant to be read and performed as one ritual without a break. Like many other Egyptian texts, the Bremner Rhind Papyrus 3 is a text that takes us on a journey of becoming. The priest or priests build up their mental and physical resilience by vibrating those hostile words, channelling the power and assimilating them into themselves, transforming those nine books of curses into a powerful and mighty weapon of protection and strength. 

I mentioned above how these texts were probably found in the tomb of a priest. They were included in the funeral rites and preparation for the underworld or night journey. Whichever way one looks at it, one can’t avoid the awareness that Apep is eternal, bornless and cannot be killed. This realisation could cause a psychological battle in the mind of the priest, leading to doubts, despair and resentment of his beliefs, and losing their ability to perform their roles properly in the temple. By turning the tables and learning the secrets powers of the curse, the priest acquires a tool of power, channelling the powers of the cursed one onto himself, freeing himself from the mundane state of existence, transforming and attuning his mind into the cosmic rhythm of the eternal.

Being equipped with such a papyrus, with such a powerful curse, in the tomb on your final journey, would be like the ultimate insurance policy against the immense forces of Apep the eternal, to protect his “soul” (Ba, Ka, Akh) on the final journey.

The Names Of Apep Which Shall Have No Existence – Book nine is like a repetitive mantra to be chanted and written on papyrus and to be burned in the fire. In the mantra, the name of Apep is repeated twenty-nine times! Each repetition is written with one of his terrible and horrific powerful characteristics, for instance – (21) Apep Kher Amam (Apep, The Fallen, The Devourer) (25) Apep Kher Kenemmti (Apep, The Fallen, The Dark One) (28) Apep Kher Sekhem-her (Apep, The Fallen, The Potent of Glance). Ostensibly it looks as if the priest is chanting and writing a very fierce curse. From my personal experience with mantra chantings, I can say that the more you repeat the same word,  vowel or seed mantra, the more one can actually feel the energy gathering, charging and vibrating around and within you. You are becoming one with the rhythm, like the physical vessel of the mantra vibrations. The repetition of Apep’s name is the way in which the priest channels and charges the power into himself. 

According to the instructions on the Abydos Temple walls, the daily temple ritual was performed three times a day.  Based on information from Temple Ritual at Abydos by Rosalie David (2016), before entering the temple, the priests had to purify themselves in the water basins, the sacred lake or any other convenient pure water source. Weapons must be left outside the temple and only then can they approach the shrine door. 

They open that door while saying: “I remove the finger of Seth from the Eye of Horus” step into the shrine and look at the God, saying whatever comes into their mind as a greeting. Perhaps something like this: “Be not unaware of me (Ra), If you know me, I will know you”. They

move into the shrine and stand before the altar and clean away any debris, tidy the place, lighted the fire and anointed all the deity’s statues and figurines with the daily perfume and made an offering of food etc saying: “Hetep di nesew asir neb djedu neter Aa neb Abdu” Which was the standard offering formula in Egyptian rites and can be adapted to any deity. Once all this was done, the priest positioned himself in front of the offering table and started to read the Book(s) of Overthrowing Apep, building up the energy to the triumphant crescendo of the chanting the words of book nine – The Names Of Apep Which Shall Have No Existence, finishing the rite by throwing the papyrus into the purifying flames of the temple fire. 

One can almost see the rite taking place, almost feel the vibrations of the chants resonating within the temple.  Now imagine how would it feels to visit that temple when the ritual of Overthrowing Apep has been performed a myriad times, since the Middle Kingdom when its existence was first recorded. For the uninitiated and the laymen, the temples in which this rite has been regularly performed must have been the most forbidding and eerie of places, haunted by wild-eyed priests. For the cult and its initiates, this was a place of power, a place to immerse yourself and to be charged with the endless baraka of the eternal one.

The Sethian myth is established on the sacred triad: Ra, Seth & Apophis, none could exist without the others. It is the battle-dance of creation, one dies, another must kill and one must shine.  

 The complete version of the Books of Overthrowing Apep (The Mother of all Curses) is reproduced in Mogg Morgan’s Seth & The Two Ways

Seth & The Two Ways
Ways of seeing the demon god of Egypt
Mogg Morgan
Format: Softcover/illustrated/many in colour.
ISBN: 9781906958831
£18/US$26
Subjects: Ancient Egypt/Egyptian Magick

Click HERE for Seth & The Two Ways / UK / £18

Click HERE for Seth & The Two Ways / USA and Worldwide / US$26

 

The Witch of King’s Cross – Rosaleen Norton

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A story that needs to be told, this ground breaking documentary does the trick. Although at 1 hour 15minutes maybe a little overlong for the format and could be a bit faster. Even so it was great to see and hear her biographer, the late Nevill Drury contributing to the story he did so much to research over several editions of his book Pan’s Daughter : the magical world of Rosaleen Norton. I found the first half the most interesting, when she was younger and a rising star, before the grey men in the Australian patriarchy, and the catholic church brought her down and mostly extinguished her fire, sometimes literally in the fire, when the police were ordered by the courts to burn two of her paintings. Outrageous stuff that courts order burning of pictures, a real witchhunt.

The dirty tricks, the illegal raids on her home by the press are all there. And though she fought back and embraced and reclaimed her witch archetype, it was something of a pyric victory as she ended her days mostly as a recluse and died alone in a hospice run by nuns. Many of her former friends in the film seemed too untogether to be there for her at the end. 

She became something of a parody of herself, sometimes grotesque in the media game. I was so glad to see the pictures of her in her sister’s garden, her hair down and unbleached, no fringe and no crazy eyebrows – just the beautiful person she once was. 

So overall, despite a great body of work, she was well ahead of her time. But a wasted genius, and not through any fault of her own, other than being a woman and a witch.  Her astral magick, with which she connected with Gavin Greenlees and Eugene Goossens enabling them to connect across space and time, is experiencing something of a revival just now and the greater details in Nevill’s book will be useful for that. The patrician musician Goossens was an important occult influence though in the end, the career of this magical superstar was destroyed by a media conceived scandal. He died soon after but never blamed Roie for the any of it; despite her keeping a photographic record of their work, which was stolen from its hiding place in her flat by a hostile journalist and they then sealed her, and his fate. So let us remember her, and induct her into the company of gnostic and tantrik saints. A true original, whose magick and witchcraft did not come from the usual suspects of the time, but was a power of love, direct and from above. 

Honorable mention to the choreographer, actors and sound people for great soundtrack, though was odd that subtitles when pan danced musick subtitled as esoteric when Lilith danced is was dramatic, great track called “Dark Arts” by Brian De Mercia.  Everyone should see this film and support the makers by paying the modest fee to own it. 

Mandrake Newsletter has more information on the biography of Rosaleen Norton Pan’s Daughter and some words from its author Nevill Drury

 

 

 

 

 

Raised by Wolves

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Raised by Wolves a new sci-fi tv series created by Aaron Guzikowski and produced by Ridley Scott.

Starring: Amanda Collin, Abubakar Salim, Winta McGrath, Niamh Algar, Travis Fimmel

Raised by Wolves touches on a lot of issues, concepts and ideas (some might even say taboos) that are so weird we rather not think about but at the same time will raise many questions and a deeper look into the concept of distorted time and how our future actions actually affect our past. 

From the first episode, I was hypnotised by the bleak and oppressive atmosphere that was induced by the very clever use of the colour scheme of grey, dark grey, off-white and cream, even the green and the blue had a greyish effect on the viewer’s psyche. 

The idea that the future of the entire human race, is in the caring (?) hands of two very advanced and sophisticated androids (super androids?) is quite unsettling. It raises questions and awareness, about the ethics of investing in the future development of the human-like androids. At the same time, the realization and understanding that surface from our subconscious are that maybe now is the time, that we need to start getting used to these kinds of ideas and concepts. As it seems that the technology is already here. If that wasn’t enough to fill one with questions and the feeling of dread of “what is going on?” it didn’t take long before a new idea crept up to raise even more questions, adding to the overall feel of uneasiness that flows through the series. 

We learned that our future is in the hands of the super-androids, but now we know they can get hurt, badly and even bleed!  I don’t know about you, but as far as I know, or thought I knew, androids are supposed to be machines and when they get broken we either fix or scrap them. But we all know how Mr Scott works, so why do I find myself surprised and unsettled by a very damaged and bleeding android? Maybe it’s because of the whitish colour of the blood like substance that is pouring out of the body of the android that’s just been shot.

To my mind, if androids had veins, I would be expecting to see a darkish maybe even black oily substance coming out of them. After all, they are machines that run on grease and oil. But here, I think, the white substance is representing two things:

1- The white substance might symbolise that these particular androids are “creatures” of light – you will not find any bit of darkness in them, not even in their veins.

2- The white substance resembles battery acid, hence the androids run on some very advanced batteries. The battery powers the android’s nervous system, sending electric charges all over their very complex body-systems, enabling them to think and to feel?

Those of you that have read thus far probably think to themselves, that there is nothing new in these ideas, we’ve seen all before, and I agree. There is nothing new in the concept of human-android hybrid and definitely is a recurring theme in Ridley Scott films such as in Blade Runner, Alien Covenant. In the classic sci-fi TV program Battlestar Galactica, the human race faces a threat from the Cylons, which are another type of very evolved android in search of god, which brings me to the next unsettling thought that crossed my mind while watching Raised by Wolves. The mother android has been programmed to carry out a mission no matter what. It will use all its power, resources, advanced technologies, calculations and its wits (did I just say wits?) to carry out its mission to success. 

Their android technology is so advanced that at times I find myself thinking that the android really believes in its mission and that belief makes it act and behave in a certain way. It even rejects a different human belief – embracing its maker’s belief as an atheist and rejecting the belief in the all-powerful god – Sol. 

All through the series the theme of believers versus non-believers is slowly advanced as we watch our non-believer heroes beginning to accept the idea that there might be something out there, some kind of power that just might pull the strings on its behalf if they just believe in it. 

On the other side, some of our heroes from the believer’s camp are starting to realize that maybe some aspect of their belief is not acceptable and based on lies. Belief versus non-belief is, of course, the ultimate human dilemma, but now there’s a new player – an atheist programmed android that starts to believe (or is it just malfunctioning?) Throughout the episodes, we watch our heroes, both human and androids trying to understand and work through the complexities of surviving on a cold and dark planet. It gets even more complicated when the android realizes it can dream – and why not, if we go with second theory: (The white substance resembles battery acid, hence the androids run on some very advanced batteries. The battery governs the android’s nervous system, sending electric current all over their very complex body-system, enabling them to think and to feel?) so why not to dream too, deep android electric dreams. The dreams are so deep and mystical, the android becomes some kind of a seer into the future or maybe the past of humankind. 

The last episode blew my mind, the possibilities of a new theory, well new to me anyway, of where we came from and where we are going, made my head spin. And like all of this wasn’t enough, there is a serpent too. A sacred serpent. 

Many of the ideas that unsettled me are not new to sci-fi fans. The difference in Raised by Wolves is that it is done in such a brilliant way that you have to face these ideas while at the same time processing the information. With each episode, the ideas are getting more complex and presented in such a way that they seem completely real and feasible. The horrors of those ideas coming true might make some of us think that Raised by Wolves is another sci-fi horror and gore tv series, but it’s not. There aren’t any Alien type monsters and gore on this planet, and hardly any blood crazy scenes (if at all). What makes us feel this way is how we are presented with those far-out ideas and concepts.

I wish I could say some more, but then it would contain spoilers. Raised by Wolves definitely won’t be everybody’s cup of tea, and I think it might raise some questions and a few eyebrows even with hardcore sci-fi fans. I think it was great, definitely made me think and hope for a better future so we can have an even better past.

You can watch the trailer HERE