AS ABOVE; SO BELOW

This is a colorful introduction to Hermetics, also known as the ROYAL ART – a system of knowledge traditionally reserved for priests, royalty and magicians.

Within the Hermetic system is an explanation for nearly everything inside and outside of your self; here are the roots of Creation, Chemistry, Biology, Science, Art and Philosophy. It is the basis for understanding the Universe and your place in it. This course is divided into three parts covering the origins, systems and practical applications of the Hermetic Arts.

ASTROLOGY / ASTROTHEOLOGY

  “Astrology represents the summation of all the psychological knowledge of antiquity.” C.G. Jung

The subject of astrology is vast, with a wide range of sub-topics. The system has been used for thousands of years – where did it start? What does it mean? Beyond the generalizations of sun sign forecasts and horoscopes, are deep symbolic correlations to the Bible, Alchemy, Qabalah and Magic.

As a powerful system of self-knowledge, the study of astrology encourages one to investigate and observe things more carefully. There is nothing to believe, but everything to understand. Newbies are encouraged to ‘just observe’ without judgment. Once there is an awareness of the cosmic rhythms, one will begin to see the patterns formed by these rhythms; the most extraordinary, ironic and vivid patterns.

The Zodiac is collection of mythological characters involved in the gamut of mind games – from the highest bliss of true love to the torturous hell of passionate entanglement, their stories include murderous rivalry,  deceit, cruelty and war – truly a reflection of life on earth. This section of the course explores the symbolic aspects of the universe – the astrological signs, the houses and some of the archetypes connected to them.

ALCHEMY & THE GREAT WORK

“Within the Alchemical tradition, there are seven operative stages to the process of transmutation; the goal of is achieved when they fuse into one another, then the Phœnix rises from the ashes of this fusion. Once risen, it surfaces and presents itself to the world as  Mercury, the hermaphrodite or the unified Self.”

Transmutation via the Great Work

Alchemy interprets the nature of all things, including the human psyche. This operates through images, words, allegory, metaphors, myths and archetypes; and not coincidentally, these are all elements of the classic tarot. Herein, is access to the wellspring of your psyche. Here, is the ‘great secret’.

This section of the course delves into alchemical emblems of antiquity, we’ll look at some of the common themes and symbols and cover the seven steps of the of the transmutation process.

 TRANSFORMATIONAL MAGIC

“Magic is the Highest, most Absolute, and most Divine Knowledge of Natural Philosophy, advanced in its works and wonderful operations by a right understanding of the inward and occult virtue of things; so that true Agents being applied to proper Patients, strange and admirable effects will thereby be produced. Whence magicians are profound and diligent searchers into Nature; they, because of their skill, know how to anticipate an effect, the which to the vulgar shall seem to be a miracle.”
From The Goetia of the Lemegeton of King Solomon.

This class builds upon the two prior courses, and indeed, it is the goal. When we understand the language of symbolism and the rhythms of the cosmos, these influences can be used to create willful transformation of ourselves and the space around us – this is Magic.

This is our ‘lab class’ where we apply the concepts with words, images, fragrance, colour and sound.

Play time!

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