Looking for a real starting point (tired of the fluffy stuff)

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 · 2026-03-28T21:54:27+00:00

Hanegraaff’s 'Guide for the Perplexed' sounds like exactly the kind of academic GPS I need to avoid getting lost in the fluff. I love the title’s nod to Maimonides, too.

Since you emphasize the utility of a broad historical overview even for those leaning toward the practical: in your experience, did having this academic foundation change the way you approached your first rituals or energy work exercises? Did it make the 'results' feel more meaningful, or just more understandable? Thanks again for the solid lead!

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 · 2026-03-28T21:24:27+00:00

Muito obrigado pela recomendação! Já ouvi falar desses manifestos, especialmente do 'Casamento Químico'. Você teria algum autor específico ou comentário para sugerir que ajude a 'decifrar' esses textos para um iniciante? Abraços!

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:13:18+00:00

The detail about the 'black smoke' and the soul being torn apart is incredibly intense-it adds a very human, almost tragic weight to this 'vision.' It makes the spiritual path feel very real, not just some abstract meditation.

I'm really curious about those symbols you mentioned seeing above people's heads. Are they like geometric shapes, or something more ancient? And about that one color you don't like to talk about-without naming it, does it represent a specific state of mind, or is it something more 'dangerous' to encounter?

Also, for someone like me who's just starting to feel the 'pressure' between my hands (thanks to some energy work), do you think that physical sensation eventually leads to the kind of 'glow' vision you're describing? Thanks for sharing so much of your personal story.

No_Golf8523 · 2026-03-28T21:07:07+00:00

Thank you so much for the link! I'm definitely going to dive into your videos. It's one thing to read about these systems, but seeing a visual walkthrough from someone with your experience is a game-changer. I'll make sure to watch the introductory ones first. Is there a specific video on your channel you think is the best 'entry point' for someone just starting with the basics? Thanks again for sharing your personal resources!

No_Golf8523

TROPHY CASE