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The path to understanding the occult may lie within the unlikeliest of places: the Catholic Church. Sources suggest that Catholicism, with its rich history of mysticism and symbolism, provides a unique framework for exploring esoteric knowledge.
For those Catholics seeking to delve into the occult, several texts are recommended:
- “The Interior Castle” by St. Theresa of Avila and “The Dark Night of the Soul” by St. John of the Cross: While these works are considered difficult, they offer profound insights into Christian mysticism.
- “The Imitation of Christ” by Thomas a Kempis: A good starting point, it teaches discipline, humility, and contemplation.
- “Meditations on the Tarot” by Valentin Tomberg: Written by a former occultist who found a home in the Catholic Church, this book bridges the gap between esoteric worldviews and Catholic beliefs.
Western Occultism is a vast field, encompassing Qabalah, alchemy, astrology, Christian Gnosis, and Hermeticism. Practitioners can engage in contemplation, reading, rituals, and invocations, depending on their goals and inclinations.
One individual suggests that the writings of George Fox (Quaker) are interesting, as he discusses the “celestial flesh” and the transformation into the Body of Christ. Also “Christification”, a mystical Lutheran approach to theosis
Another source recommends a path that begins with Ekhart, Swedenborg, Rinehold, Fichte, Bohme, and Aquinas, followed by Blavatsky’s works, Steiner, Heindel, Leadbeater, and Powell. This journey culminates in Saint-Martin, comparative mythology, Freemasonry, Templars, and Rosicrucians. For those abandoning Catholicism, Chaos Magic can provide a practical foundation. Ultimately, individuals should create their own practice, drawing from various systems and ideas.
Some believe that being Catholic gives one a better chance at understanding the occult. “The Practice of the Presence of God” by Brother Lawrence is another recommended read, as well as resources such as the Christian Mysticism Podcast, offer concise introductions to traditional Catholic mysticism.
One informant warns of the dangers of occult involvement, detailing a progression from earthly pleasures and disconnection from God to a belief in one’s own power, followed by depression, sleep paralysis, and ultimately, possession and destruction.
For those seeking to understand the risks, “The Devil in Dreamland” by Ursula Bielski, “Hostage to the Devil” by Father Malachi Martin, and “The Exorcist Files” by Father Carlos Martin are suggested.
Another source argues that Catholic occultism lies within the alchemical, grimoiric, and Christian mysticism traditions, rejecting Christian theosophy. They recommend studying Ficino, Theresa, John of the Cross, Dionysius the Areopagite, Mirandolla, and the alchemical symbols present in cathedrals.
Some sources suggest that magic is intertwined with the Catholic faith, referencing the transformation of wine into blood and the presence of idols within churches. Others advise against leaving the “containment religion” of Catholicism, suggesting that it provides a necessary framework for those drawn to such questions.
A disgruntled individual declares he was forsaken by God throughout the years, and that loneliness led him to magic.
The Grimoire Tradition assumes that the magician either has Holy Orders or a priest on standby to guard against unwanted forces.
Ultimately, the journey into the occult is a personal one, fraught with potential dangers and requiring careful consideration and discernment.
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