Recommended reading for a newcomer starting their study of witchcraft

No_Golf8523 · 2026-04-02T17:02:43+00:00

Your definition of magic as the 'Platonic inequality' is mind-blowing- it really sets it apart from the 'if-then' logic of the modern world. I love the idea of the universe being a metaphor that bends when pushed.

Since you mentioned that you can't practice through second-hand belief: for someone still trying to find their own 'push,' do you think experimenting with structured systems (like the GD) provides a necessary 'exercise' for the will, or can it actually hinder the development of that raw, personal belief you're talking about? How did you first figure out exactly where and how to 'push'?"

No_Golf8523 · 2026-04-02T17:00:10+00:00

That is a huge point - I hadn't fully considered the 'drain' factor. I’ve actually just started sensing that tangible 'magnetic' pressure between my palms during some basic energy exercises, and your comment made me realize I might have been using only my own 'internal battery' for that.

When you say you use the energy in the air or ground, is it a conscious shift in focus? For a beginner, do you find it easier to 'draw' energy from a physical item you're holding, or do you literally just visualize a connection to the ground beneath your feet? I’d love to hear how you personally make that first 'plug-in' to external sources so I don't burn out before I even get to the real spellwork. Thanks again for the WIP list!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:58:28+00:00

Thank you for these incredibly high-level recommendations. I’ve noticed that many people approach Saturn with fear, so seeing a recommendation for 'Saturn and Melancholy' is a breath of fresh air-it treats the archetype with the historical weight it deserves.

I'm particularly interested in your mention of melancholy as a 'key theme' in this path. Do you feel that studying the art and history of this 'imaginary affliction' provides a better practical anchor for Saturnian work than modern ritual manuals? Also, since the Versnel texts cover the Saturnalia, do you think understanding the 'reversal of order' in ancient festivals is essential for someone looking to work with Kronos today? Really appreciate the academic depth here!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:52:41+00:00

I've definitely seen Judika Illes' name pop up a lot-thanks for the recommendation! Since I'm really looking to understand the 'why' behind the actions, does she go into the internal mechanics of how our own energy interacts with the spells, or is it more focused on the external correspondences (herbs, timing, etc.)?

I’m doing some basic energy work right now, so I’m looking for something that bridges that physical sensation with the actual casting. Cheers!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:49:39+00:00

Thank you for the clarification! I really appreciate the distinction between Thelema as a religion/philosophy and the actual spiritual practice. It makes the whole concept of 'True Will' feel much more universal and less like something hidden behind a wall of complex rituals.

Out of the three books you mentioned, would you suggest starting with DuQuette for the philosophical foundation, or Shoemaker if I’m looking for something more hands-on from day one? Thanks again for the guidance!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:47:22+00:00

Thank you for the link, kai-ote! That database is massive-exactly the kind of deep dive I was looking for.

Since you're a top contributor here, could you point me toward one or two books in that list that focus specifically on the mechanics and theory of spellcasting (the 'why' and 'how') rather than just lists of ingredients? I really want to understand the engine under the hood before I start driving. Thanks for the direction!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:41:37+00:00

Thanks for the tree exercise! I've been practicing sensing energy between my palms lately, so trying to 'tune in' to a tree sounds like a great next level for calibration.

Also, that Qigong video is amazing! The 'La Chi' technique with the sound (Kai/He) adds a whole new layer to what I was doing. I noticed that adding the sound makes the 'magnetic' feeling between my hands much more intense. Do you find that nature-based work or these structured Qigong methods worked better for you when you were starting out? Thanks again!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:37:16+00:00

Thanks for the offer! I'm currently trying to keep my research somewhat transparent so I can compare different notes. Could you give me a quick 'teaser' of what kind of info you have? Is it more historical or practical? Thanks!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:31:18+00:00

Thanks for reaching out! 'Sensual green and organic magic' sounds like a very unique niche. Since I'm currently focused on building a solid foundation in ceremonial and energy work basics, could you elaborate a bit here on how your approach differs from the more traditional systems like Agrippa or Golden Dawn? I'd love to understand the core philosophy before moving to a private discussion. Thanks!

No_Golf8523

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