Lecture Notes: Forms of Magical Practice

High Magic

• Definition: Also known as ceremonial magic, structured and spiritual.
• Focus: Higher truths like enlightenment, cosmic alignment, and self-transformation.
• Rituals: Detailed, symbolic, based on ancient systems, using sacred tools (wands, swords, chalices, pentacles).
• Traditions: Hermeticism, Kabbalah, Alchemy.
• Goals: Divine union, spiritual awakening, the "great work" (perfecting the soul).
• Famous Systems: Neoplatonists, Enochian Magic by John Dee and Edward Kelley, Golden Dawn rituals, Kabbalistic Magic.

Chaos Magic

• Definition: Radical, experimental, does not follow fixed traditions.
• Belief: Belief as a tool; focus on what works.
• Practices: DIY spirituality, borrowing symbols from various sources.
• Core Idea: Reality is malleable, shaped by will and perception.
• Example: Sigil magic, temporary personas, absurd rituals.

Divination

• Definition: Seeking knowledge through supernatural means.
• Purpose: Not about predicting the future but understanding patterns and energies.
• Forms: Tarot cards, Astrology, Runes, Palmistry, Pendulums, I-Ching, Scrying.
• Belief: Everything is connected, messages through patterns.
• Approach: Dialogue between seeker and unseen world.

Blood Magic

• Definition: Controversial, using blood as a life force.
• Practices: Modern practices use small drops of blood for empowerment.
• Significance: Seen as powerful and intense; requires responsibility.
• Associations: Often linked to darker traditions but can also be protective or healing.

Green Magic

• Definition: Nature-based, focuses on the energy of earth and plants.
• Practices: Using herbs, flowers, roots, moon cycles, and seasons.
• Purpose: Healing, fertility, abundance, grounding, peace.
• Philosophy: Sustainability, mindfulness, working with nature.

Necromancy

• Definition: Communication with the dead to gain knowledge or guidance.
• Historical View: Respected spiritual practice in ancient cultures.
• Practices: Rituals at burial sites, using grave-related objects.
• Modern View: Ancestor veneration, spirit work, mediumship.

Shadow Magic

• Definition: Confronting and integrating the hidden or darker aspects of self.
• Core Concepts: Psychological and spiritual, draws from Jungian shadow self.
• Practices: Mirror work, dream analysis, journaling, sigil crafting.
• Goal: Transformation, self-awareness, balance.

Sex Magic

• Definition: Uses sexual energy for manifestation and transformation.
• Belief: Sexual energy as potent life force.
• Practices: Using arousal and orgasm to focus and direct intentions.
• Purpose: Energetic and magical creation.