On the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn blog, there has been some recent articles about astral-only initiations, particularly those espoused by Robert Zink, titular head of the EOGD (Esoteric Order of the Golden Dawn), a branch of the Golden Dawn. It appears that Robert Zink, referred to by David Griffin as “Sideshow Bob,” has been promoting a kind of astral-only initiation, which takes place on the inner planes and allows individuals from remote geographic locations to receive an initiation in the Golden Dawn while not having to travel to any branch temple or the mother temple. Mr. Zink has gone so far as to say that an astral initiation is just as valid as a real one that takes place in a temple, conferred by real and physical representatives of the Order. Robert Zink in fact says that if long distance healing is possible, then why wouldn’t long distance initiations be possible? You can see the HOGD article here.
Of course, that would mean that healing and initiation are somehow conflated and identical processes. Anyone who has performed psychic healing will tell you that performing it physically on the person and in their presence is much more powerful than performing it long-distance. Healing in-person is optimal, long distance healing is done when no other possible recourse is available. I would also state that long distance healing can be deflected or interfered with to a greater degree than an in-person healing, and there is a stark difference in the rate of success.
Also, it’s much too easy to tell someone that you are going to do something for them magickally at a distance, and then do nothing. If anything good happens, it’s easy to take credit for it, and if nothing happens or the matter gets worse, you can say that at least you tried. If there was an exchange of money for such a transaction, I would find it difficult not to consider it a scam. Anyway, all of this is rather silly, since an initiation isn’t at all like a healing. What we really need to discuss, as far as the possibility of an astral-only initiation is concerned, is the definition of the term “initiation.”
As an aside, in all of the years that I have been a witch, no one I know of has ever claimed to have received an astral-only initiation into witchcraft. If someone did make that claim, even if it was backed up by their High Priestess and High Priest, I would have to reject it. As it is, self initiation is looked upon dubiously for obvious reasons. An astral-only initiation would be considered very peculiar and would be rejected on the grounds that it did not bodily involve the candidate in any obvious manner. To understand initiation, we will need to look at that term and how it’s used, as well as examine another corollary term, which is transformation. I will quote some raw passages from my book “Disciple’s Guide to Ritual Magick” to aid in building these definitions.
“Our day to day lives are filled with changes, and our challenge is to meet and integrate those changes into our lives. A failure to adjust to those changes is nothing short of a failure to adapt to life itself, which allows for the occurrence of even greater misfortune. Most changes are part of the flux and flow of life; seemingly granting individuals good fortune, luck, as well as trials, misfortune and tragedies. However, some changes are strategic and more significant, meaning that they represent an opportunity for individuals to better themselves, to grow and expand rapidly, making themselves more self-aware and sensitive to the greater world around them.
These changes are perilous and take us outside of ourselves, subjecting us to strange forces, mythic archetypes and processes that seem to have little to do with our daily lives. These strategic changes are called transformations, and they are usually triggered by life events that are more powerful, meaningful and significant than what is normally experienced. It is said that a wise man heeds the warning signs of his own impending transformations, and a fool ignores them.
When we choose an earth based religious tradition, like Wicca, Witchcraft, Neopaganism, or even a Magickal Lodge, often there is an associated rite (initiation) that is performed after we have gained a foothold in that tradition. That rite represents a passage from one state to another; from a state of lacking knowledge (about that tradition), to a state where we have become knowledgeable. Rites of passage like these exist at various strategic moments of our lives, and mark the times where we become knowledgeable about a new aspect of life - such as naming rites for the newly born, rites of puberty and adulthood (getting a driver’s license, getting laid, becoming eligible to vote, etc), marriage, parenthood, retirement or rites of eldership, and rites associated with death, such as wakes or funerals, to mark our passing from this world to the next.
Initiation rites can be social rites of passage, but they can also include a certain amount of personal transformation. Yet rites of passage (initiations) and personal transformations are actually two different things altogether, even though we often use them interchangeably. They should always be used distinctly since they denote different things. It is possible and even likely to experience both an initiation and a transformation, but it is not the rule, and certainly they are two different events and two different experiences. One can receive initiations into various social organizations (such as the Freemasons, Odd Fellows, Eagles, Elks, Lions, Liar’s Club, Greek Fraternities and Sororities, etc.), and not be in any kind of spiritually transformed state. That is especially true for exoteric organizations and quasi-religious social cliques.
One can also undergo a powerful spiritual transformation and not be a zealous member of any particular creed. However, for esoteric organizations and true spiritual paths, an initiation and a transformation should occur nearly simultaneously. Our potential conscious growth is far greater than we have been led to believe, so we may grow far beyond the boundaries of normal adult ego-consciousness. In fact, that is the expectation in earth-base spiritual traditions, whether it is stated as such in the lore or just implicit in its practices.
Magick is the method and the means through which an initiation and a transformation occur simultaneously. Those esoteric organizations who support the practice of some form of magick, are the very same organizations that have developed the means of continual personal transformation, which is also the obvious path to personal enlightenment and self-illumination.
Those esoteric organizations who eschew the practice of any form of magick or mysticism are very likely fraudulent and should be avoided by one and all. Without magick or mysticism there can be no growth, no spiritual evolution, and no hope of self-realization. The definition of magick is included in the broadest of practices and beliefs. Yet the focus of magick is always upon the transformation of the individual, so he or she may directly and periodically experience the Deity in all its mystery and manifested glory. Magick is the mirror that reflects the macrocosm into the microcosm, and back again, thus developing the greater depth of the individual soul. Magickal rituals are the sacred practices of individuals who seek to experience the world of Spirit, for magick is defined as the use of sacred symbols and rites for private instead of public purposes, and the goal is always a form of gnosis, which is the knowledge that one is a true being of Spirit.”
I would also like to include a few other quotes from that same book as well, to further define the terms of initiation and transformation. The definitions that are used were pulled from the Meriam Webster online dictionary.
“When we examine the definition for initiation we find the following entries.
‘INITIATION: the rites, ceremonies, ordeals or instructions with which one is made a member of a sect or society or is invested with a particular function or status.’
This seems to fit what we have said in previous paragraphs.
‘Initiate: to induct, facilitate the beginning of - to induct into membership by, or as if by special rites. Synonym: to begin. The condition of being initiated into some experience or sphere of activity - knowledgeableness.’
Aha! The word knowledgeableness is used in the definition above, a point that we stressed previously. The knowledge that is spoken of can be exoteric, as that found in a fraternal order, or it can be esoteric, as that found in a mystical or magickal order. Esoteric knowledge is synonymous with gnosis, so initiatory knowledge within an occult organization represents intuitive knowledge of the Deity.
As we can see in the above lines from the dictionary, an initiation represents a rite of passage, a gateway or lintel-crossing from one station in life to the next. One who is initiated possesses a kind of special knowledge, granted as a privilege and responsibility by an organization or hierarchy. When this rite is performed in an esoteric organization, then the conferees of initiation are part of a spiritual hierarchy. However, in most cases, initiation is used to bring a candidate for membership formally into that organization.
The purpose of such an initiation, in an exoteric organization, is to grant membership and not to profoundly alter one’s consciousness. Anthropologists have traced the antecedent to these social organizations in the tribal Moiety, representing the precursor to all later secret societies. The Moiety, which is a social phenomenon where a tribe is divided into two parts, and where each group practices their rites in secrecy from the other half of the tribe, represents a basic human organizational behavior, and might even be traced backed to some precursor hominid instinctive behavior.
A social organization, or lodge, which conducts secret rites, with signs, passwords, and grips, can be conducted in a fashion that is no more spiritual or magickal than any other semi public activity. Thus it is not unusual to find individuals who are high initiates in various social orders, but who have not experienced any kind of psychological transformation. We must examine the nature and definition of transformation in order to realize the true source of spiritual evolution; for obviously it is not through initiation alone that we are changed.
So let us look at the definition for the word transformation and see how it is defined.
‘TRANSFORMATION: act or process or instance of transforming or being transformed. To change in composition or structure, to change the outward form or appearance of - to change in character or condition. Convert, change, to make radically different.’
The part of the definition of Transformation that seems to be most relevant is the expression, to make radically different. And also - to change in character or condition. Transformation is defined as a radical or profound change, but such a change could be either progressive and evolving or regressive and debilitating. However, within the context of the occult, we refer to transformation as the means to achieving positive spiritual change within one’s self.
To round out the definition of transformation, we have to include two other terms - Transcendence and Teleology. We include them because progressive transformation seems to cause one to sense the deeper structures of reality and beingness, and to perceive that there is a final end or purpose to life.
‘TRANSCENDENCE: exceeding usual limits, surpassing - extending or lying beyond the limits of ordinary experience - in Kantian philosophy: being beyond the limits of all possible experience and knowledge. Being beyond comprehension - Exceed. Transcend: to rise above or go beyond the limits of, to triumph over the negative or restrictive aspects of, overcome, to outstrip or outdo in some attribute, quality, or power.’
Those who choose the purely scientific view (of reality) have sided with Emanuel Kant in accepting that the transcendental quality of consciousness is beyond all possible rational knowledge, beyond comprehension, and therefore must be irrelevant to the acquisition of real objective knowledge. Of course, those who have been trained as occultists know this to be a fallacy, for we who are seekers often experience higher states of consciousness while immersed in the domain of Spirit. We are also able to explain it and even teach the practice of obtaining these states of consciousness to others, thus also making them quite objective in a subjective manner.
The transcendental realm of Spirit is inexplicable, so it is represented as a kind of meta-logic or metaphysics that defies quantitative or qualitative analysis. It is also a domain of human experience that is universal in its potential, experienced by all, but seldom realized except by a small minority of people. The word transcendence is used together with transformation to denote the kind of personal change that triumphs over all adversity and suppression, releasing the self to the greater and higher states of being.
‘TELEOLOGY: Telos (end) + logia (purpose). The study of evidence of design in nature, a doctrine that states that ends are immanent in nature, a doctrine explaining phenomena by final causes. The fact or character attributed to nature or natural processes of being directed toward an end or shaped by a purpose. The use of design or purpose as an explanation of natural phenomena.’
Teleology could mean that through a spiritual perspective, everything in the world has a purpose, a vocation and a destiny. However, teleology has also digressed into such formulations as Intelligent Design, which is a stealthy re-packaging of Creationism. I think that by purpose or ultimate design, we must conclude that the subjective human process of creating meaning is taking place, and that it is not to be confused with objective physical reality. The meaning of life is not something that makes much sense when examined with the ruthless empirical eye of science.
The terms transcendence and teleology seem to refer directly to that domain of human activity called the Sacred. It seems obvious, then, that to experience transcendence is to experience the world of Spirit, for it is Spirit that transcends all that we might mentally conceive, and it is also the beginning and the end of all manifestation - the true source and destiny of all spiritual seekers. Thus we also choose to examine the word sacred, since it seems to be at the core of the terms that we have examined so far.
‘SACRED: the power, being, or realm understood by religious persons to be at the core of existence and to have a transformative effect on their lives and destinies. Other terms, such as holy, divine, transcendent, ultimate being (or reality), mystery, and perfection (or purity) have been used for this domain. Sacred is also an important technical term in the scholarly study and interpretation of religions.’
The word sacred represents the ground or basis for the domain of transcendental transformation, and as such, it requires that all actions within that space be godlike and archetypal. All of the above words, initiation, transformation, transcendence, teleology, and sacred symbolize the process and the path of individual ascension, but throughout them runs the theme of the experience of Spirit. The world that is without time and space, that is trans-logical, trans-personal, non-dual, and myriad dimensional is the true Multi-verse of the Unity of All Being.
It is this place of Spirit from which all manifestation came forth, imprinted with the synergistic potential to become conscious; and it is that which all conscious individuals seek. They seek their ultimate union with the being-ness of Spirit, who is called a God, for lack of a better name. Thus through the magickal artifice of emanation, involution, evolution, and union, the material universe, filled with dead inchoate matter, becomes imbued with life, consciousness, and then, ultimately, Spirit.
There are two cycles identified in this pattern, and they are the cycles of Transformation and Emanation - the intersecting paths of Light and Darkness, the realms of the Macrocosm and the Microcosm intertwined. The primary mystery that a magician faces, then, is the mystery of his own being, and its revelation as the god-as-self within the World of Spirit. A wise magician must ever work magick that promotes and transforms himself, so that the realization of the divinity within himself becomes an objective reality. And the name for this kind of magick is the Great Work, the Magnum Opus of magicians and alchemists, the obtainment of perfect spiritual illumination.
The process of spiritual growth is principally aided by a synthesis of transformation, transcendence and teleology to cause strategic changes at important moments of our lives, so the progression of spiritual awakening and growth is personally significant and meaningful. Transformative initiations are a means whereby certain levels of transformation are objectified, but they can also facilitate the transformation process itself.”
So, hopefully, the above quotations from the Disciple’s Guide to Ritual Magick have adequately defined the nature of initiation and transformation. However, I think that we need to make a few additional points in order to fully explain the necessity of receiving a transformative initiation at the hands of another and more experienced initiate, and through the acceptance and agreement of a peer group. I believe that the importance of both of these criteria would show that an astral-only initiation or a self-initiation, however legitimate they may be attested to by an individual or a group, can never replace a physical teacher, elder and a peer group. The key to this whole idea is the need for one to be challenged, tested and then affirmed by a superior and one’s peers.
Without this key concept, anyone could claim to be an initiate, adept or even a master, stating that such a high honor was conferred through some astral process or by one’s own hand. Declaring such a status without the backing of a peer group, a qualified mentor or without some kind of exterior and measurable achievement would make it wholly unsubstantiated and therefore, unearned. It would be like claiming to be a Master Mason without having undergone any of the initiations or the massive amount of required memorization. Such a claim would be unbelievable if the one making it didn’t know the passwords, signs and grips that act, in a small measure, as proof of such status. Making claims about one’s spiritual level of development and achievement without any proof is just as ridiculous as making it about being a member of a fraternal order that hasn’t any spiritual or magickal pretensions.
Additionally, there are some other considerations about receiving an initiation from a teacher, elder or peer group. A powerful soul changing transformative initiation requires a high degree of objectification in order for the transformation to be properly resolved. Additionally, there is a transmission of knowledge, both subtle and essential, that passes between initiator and candidate, which can’t be either faked or simulated. Finally, receiving an initiation from a teacher or elder places one into a line of initiates, past, present and future, and this line is called a lineage.
Of course, that would mean that healing and initiation are somehow conflated and identical processes. Anyone who has performed psychic healing will tell you that performing it physically on the person and in their presence is much more powerful than performing it long-distance. Healing in-person is optimal, long distance healing is done when no other possible recourse is available. I would also state that long distance healing can be deflected or interfered with to a greater degree than an in-person healing, and there is a stark difference in the rate of success.
Also, it’s much too easy to tell someone that you are going to do something for them magickally at a distance, and then do nothing. If anything good happens, it’s easy to take credit for it, and if nothing happens or the matter gets worse, you can say that at least you tried. If there was an exchange of money for such a transaction, I would find it difficult not to consider it a scam. Anyway, all of this is rather silly, since an initiation isn’t at all like a healing. What we really need to discuss, as far as the possibility of an astral-only initiation is concerned, is the definition of the term “initiation.”
As an aside, in all of the years that I have been a witch, no one I know of has ever claimed to have received an astral-only initiation into witchcraft. If someone did make that claim, even if it was backed up by their High Priestess and High Priest, I would have to reject it. As it is, self initiation is looked upon dubiously for obvious reasons. An astral-only initiation would be considered very peculiar and would be rejected on the grounds that it did not bodily involve the candidate in any obvious manner. To understand initiation, we will need to look at that term and how it’s used, as well as examine another corollary term, which is transformation. I will quote some raw passages from my book “Disciple’s Guide to Ritual Magick” to aid in building these definitions.
“Our day to day lives are filled with changes, and our challenge is to meet and integrate those changes into our lives. A failure to adjust to those changes is nothing short of a failure to adapt to life itself, which allows for the occurrence of even greater misfortune. Most changes are part of the flux and flow of life; seemingly granting individuals good fortune, luck, as well as trials, misfortune and tragedies. However, some changes are strategic and more significant, meaning that they represent an opportunity for individuals to better themselves, to grow and expand rapidly, making themselves more self-aware and sensitive to the greater world around them.
These changes are perilous and take us outside of ourselves, subjecting us to strange forces, mythic archetypes and processes that seem to have little to do with our daily lives. These strategic changes are called transformations, and they are usually triggered by life events that are more powerful, meaningful and significant than what is normally experienced. It is said that a wise man heeds the warning signs of his own impending transformations, and a fool ignores them.
When we choose an earth based religious tradition, like Wicca, Witchcraft, Neopaganism, or even a Magickal Lodge, often there is an associated rite (initiation) that is performed after we have gained a foothold in that tradition. That rite represents a passage from one state to another; from a state of lacking knowledge (about that tradition), to a state where we have become knowledgeable. Rites of passage like these exist at various strategic moments of our lives, and mark the times where we become knowledgeable about a new aspect of life - such as naming rites for the newly born, rites of puberty and adulthood (getting a driver’s license, getting laid, becoming eligible to vote, etc), marriage, parenthood, retirement or rites of eldership, and rites associated with death, such as wakes or funerals, to mark our passing from this world to the next.
Initiation rites can be social rites of passage, but they can also include a certain amount of personal transformation. Yet rites of passage (initiations) and personal transformations are actually two different things altogether, even though we often use them interchangeably. They should always be used distinctly since they denote different things. It is possible and even likely to experience both an initiation and a transformation, but it is not the rule, and certainly they are two different events and two different experiences. One can receive initiations into various social organizations (such as the Freemasons, Odd Fellows, Eagles, Elks, Lions, Liar’s Club, Greek Fraternities and Sororities, etc.), and not be in any kind of spiritually transformed state. That is especially true for exoteric organizations and quasi-religious social cliques.
One can also undergo a powerful spiritual transformation and not be a zealous member of any particular creed. However, for esoteric organizations and true spiritual paths, an initiation and a transformation should occur nearly simultaneously. Our potential conscious growth is far greater than we have been led to believe, so we may grow far beyond the boundaries of normal adult ego-consciousness. In fact, that is the expectation in earth-base spiritual traditions, whether it is stated as such in the lore or just implicit in its practices.
Magick is the method and the means through which an initiation and a transformation occur simultaneously. Those esoteric organizations who support the practice of some form of magick, are the very same organizations that have developed the means of continual personal transformation, which is also the obvious path to personal enlightenment and self-illumination.
Those esoteric organizations who eschew the practice of any form of magick or mysticism are very likely fraudulent and should be avoided by one and all. Without magick or mysticism there can be no growth, no spiritual evolution, and no hope of self-realization. The definition of magick is included in the broadest of practices and beliefs. Yet the focus of magick is always upon the transformation of the individual, so he or she may directly and periodically experience the Deity in all its mystery and manifested glory. Magick is the mirror that reflects the macrocosm into the microcosm, and back again, thus developing the greater depth of the individual soul. Magickal rituals are the sacred practices of individuals who seek to experience the world of Spirit, for magick is defined as the use of sacred symbols and rites for private instead of public purposes, and the goal is always a form of gnosis, which is the knowledge that one is a true being of Spirit.”
I would also like to include a few other quotes from that same book as well, to further define the terms of initiation and transformation. The definitions that are used were pulled from the Meriam Webster online dictionary.
“When we examine the definition for initiation we find the following entries.
‘INITIATION: the rites, ceremonies, ordeals or instructions with which one is made a member of a sect or society or is invested with a particular function or status.’
This seems to fit what we have said in previous paragraphs.
‘Initiate: to induct, facilitate the beginning of - to induct into membership by, or as if by special rites. Synonym: to begin. The condition of being initiated into some experience or sphere of activity - knowledgeableness.’
Aha! The word knowledgeableness is used in the definition above, a point that we stressed previously. The knowledge that is spoken of can be exoteric, as that found in a fraternal order, or it can be esoteric, as that found in a mystical or magickal order. Esoteric knowledge is synonymous with gnosis, so initiatory knowledge within an occult organization represents intuitive knowledge of the Deity.
As we can see in the above lines from the dictionary, an initiation represents a rite of passage, a gateway or lintel-crossing from one station in life to the next. One who is initiated possesses a kind of special knowledge, granted as a privilege and responsibility by an organization or hierarchy. When this rite is performed in an esoteric organization, then the conferees of initiation are part of a spiritual hierarchy. However, in most cases, initiation is used to bring a candidate for membership formally into that organization.
The purpose of such an initiation, in an exoteric organization, is to grant membership and not to profoundly alter one’s consciousness. Anthropologists have traced the antecedent to these social organizations in the tribal Moiety, representing the precursor to all later secret societies. The Moiety, which is a social phenomenon where a tribe is divided into two parts, and where each group practices their rites in secrecy from the other half of the tribe, represents a basic human organizational behavior, and might even be traced backed to some precursor hominid instinctive behavior.
A social organization, or lodge, which conducts secret rites, with signs, passwords, and grips, can be conducted in a fashion that is no more spiritual or magickal than any other semi public activity. Thus it is not unusual to find individuals who are high initiates in various social orders, but who have not experienced any kind of psychological transformation. We must examine the nature and definition of transformation in order to realize the true source of spiritual evolution; for obviously it is not through initiation alone that we are changed.
So let us look at the definition for the word transformation and see how it is defined.
‘TRANSFORMATION: act or process or instance of transforming or being transformed. To change in composition or structure, to change the outward form or appearance of - to change in character or condition. Convert, change, to make radically different.’
The part of the definition of Transformation that seems to be most relevant is the expression, to make radically different. And also - to change in character or condition. Transformation is defined as a radical or profound change, but such a change could be either progressive and evolving or regressive and debilitating. However, within the context of the occult, we refer to transformation as the means to achieving positive spiritual change within one’s self.
To round out the definition of transformation, we have to include two other terms - Transcendence and Teleology. We include them because progressive transformation seems to cause one to sense the deeper structures of reality and beingness, and to perceive that there is a final end or purpose to life.
‘TRANSCENDENCE: exceeding usual limits, surpassing - extending or lying beyond the limits of ordinary experience - in Kantian philosophy: being beyond the limits of all possible experience and knowledge. Being beyond comprehension - Exceed. Transcend: to rise above or go beyond the limits of, to triumph over the negative or restrictive aspects of, overcome, to outstrip or outdo in some attribute, quality, or power.’
Those who choose the purely scientific view (of reality) have sided with Emanuel Kant in accepting that the transcendental quality of consciousness is beyond all possible rational knowledge, beyond comprehension, and therefore must be irrelevant to the acquisition of real objective knowledge. Of course, those who have been trained as occultists know this to be a fallacy, for we who are seekers often experience higher states of consciousness while immersed in the domain of Spirit. We are also able to explain it and even teach the practice of obtaining these states of consciousness to others, thus also making them quite objective in a subjective manner.
The transcendental realm of Spirit is inexplicable, so it is represented as a kind of meta-logic or metaphysics that defies quantitative or qualitative analysis. It is also a domain of human experience that is universal in its potential, experienced by all, but seldom realized except by a small minority of people. The word transcendence is used together with transformation to denote the kind of personal change that triumphs over all adversity and suppression, releasing the self to the greater and higher states of being.
‘TELEOLOGY: Telos (end) + logia (purpose). The study of evidence of design in nature, a doctrine that states that ends are immanent in nature, a doctrine explaining phenomena by final causes. The fact or character attributed to nature or natural processes of being directed toward an end or shaped by a purpose. The use of design or purpose as an explanation of natural phenomena.’
Teleology could mean that through a spiritual perspective, everything in the world has a purpose, a vocation and a destiny. However, teleology has also digressed into such formulations as Intelligent Design, which is a stealthy re-packaging of Creationism. I think that by purpose or ultimate design, we must conclude that the subjective human process of creating meaning is taking place, and that it is not to be confused with objective physical reality. The meaning of life is not something that makes much sense when examined with the ruthless empirical eye of science.
The terms transcendence and teleology seem to refer directly to that domain of human activity called the Sacred. It seems obvious, then, that to experience transcendence is to experience the world of Spirit, for it is Spirit that transcends all that we might mentally conceive, and it is also the beginning and the end of all manifestation - the true source and destiny of all spiritual seekers. Thus we also choose to examine the word sacred, since it seems to be at the core of the terms that we have examined so far.
‘SACRED: the power, being, or realm understood by religious persons to be at the core of existence and to have a transformative effect on their lives and destinies. Other terms, such as holy, divine, transcendent, ultimate being (or reality), mystery, and perfection (or purity) have been used for this domain. Sacred is also an important technical term in the scholarly study and interpretation of religions.’
The word sacred represents the ground or basis for the domain of transcendental transformation, and as such, it requires that all actions within that space be godlike and archetypal. All of the above words, initiation, transformation, transcendence, teleology, and sacred symbolize the process and the path of individual ascension, but throughout them runs the theme of the experience of Spirit. The world that is without time and space, that is trans-logical, trans-personal, non-dual, and myriad dimensional is the true Multi-verse of the Unity of All Being.
It is this place of Spirit from which all manifestation came forth, imprinted with the synergistic potential to become conscious; and it is that which all conscious individuals seek. They seek their ultimate union with the being-ness of Spirit, who is called a God, for lack of a better name. Thus through the magickal artifice of emanation, involution, evolution, and union, the material universe, filled with dead inchoate matter, becomes imbued with life, consciousness, and then, ultimately, Spirit.
There are two cycles identified in this pattern, and they are the cycles of Transformation and Emanation - the intersecting paths of Light and Darkness, the realms of the Macrocosm and the Microcosm intertwined. The primary mystery that a magician faces, then, is the mystery of his own being, and its revelation as the god-as-self within the World of Spirit. A wise magician must ever work magick that promotes and transforms himself, so that the realization of the divinity within himself becomes an objective reality. And the name for this kind of magick is the Great Work, the Magnum Opus of magicians and alchemists, the obtainment of perfect spiritual illumination.
The process of spiritual growth is principally aided by a synthesis of transformation, transcendence and teleology to cause strategic changes at important moments of our lives, so the progression of spiritual awakening and growth is personally significant and meaningful. Transformative initiations are a means whereby certain levels of transformation are objectified, but they can also facilitate the transformation process itself.”
So, hopefully, the above quotations from the Disciple’s Guide to Ritual Magick have adequately defined the nature of initiation and transformation. However, I think that we need to make a few additional points in order to fully explain the necessity of receiving a transformative initiation at the hands of another and more experienced initiate, and through the acceptance and agreement of a peer group. I believe that the importance of both of these criteria would show that an astral-only initiation or a self-initiation, however legitimate they may be attested to by an individual or a group, can never replace a physical teacher, elder and a peer group. The key to this whole idea is the need for one to be challenged, tested and then affirmed by a superior and one’s peers.
Without this key concept, anyone could claim to be an initiate, adept or even a master, stating that such a high honor was conferred through some astral process or by one’s own hand. Declaring such a status without the backing of a peer group, a qualified mentor or without some kind of exterior and measurable achievement would make it wholly unsubstantiated and therefore, unearned. It would be like claiming to be a Master Mason without having undergone any of the initiations or the massive amount of required memorization. Such a claim would be unbelievable if the one making it didn’t know the passwords, signs and grips that act, in a small measure, as proof of such status. Making claims about one’s spiritual level of development and achievement without any proof is just as ridiculous as making it about being a member of a fraternal order that hasn’t any spiritual or magickal pretensions.
Additionally, there are some other considerations about receiving an initiation from a teacher, elder or peer group. A powerful soul changing transformative initiation requires a high degree of objectification in order for the transformation to be properly resolved. Additionally, there is a transmission of knowledge, both subtle and essential, that passes between initiator and candidate, which can’t be either faked or simulated. Finally, receiving an initiation from a teacher or elder places one into a line of initiates, past, present and future, and this line is called a lineage.
Some linages are not particularly important or even necessary, yet some may represent a powerful continuity that goes beyond space and time. Receiving such an initiation may literally open doors, make inner plane contacts possible, powerfully influence people and events, and even determine one’s ultimate destiny. The important components of such an initiation are the teacher, the organization of peers and the challenging difficulty of the initiation ordeal rite.
None of this can be simulated through a self-initiation or some kind of astral-only initiation rite. It must be physical, tangible and fully realized. One must be thoroughly challenged by some ordeal external to the self, and correspondingly, one must achieve a resolution to this challenge that is satisfactory to the individual and the group who is sponsoring the teaching. This can only be accomplished through a traditional initiation ceremony, particularly one that triggers or accompanies a personal transformation.
An astral-only initiation or a self-initiation can’t replace a traditional initiation, and in some cases, they can even be counter productive. There is only so much that one person can do by themselves, even with a lifetime of personal study and experience. At certain times everyone needs to have a teacher or elder to assist and guide them, and at all times, everyone needs a peer group to help them objectify their experiences. There are no substitutes or alternatives, regardless of what anyone may say. If someone ever tells you that you can acquire a high initiation or a personal transformation without any outside challenge, group or teacher, then you should avoid that person who so advises you as a fraud and a cheat, especially if they offer to do it for a fee.
That’s my opinion on this controversial subject. I know that some will not agree with me, but I believe that most will see the reason and the importance in what I am communicating. If someone ever came up to me and told me that they had paid someone to give them an astral-only initiation into witchcraft, I think that I would try very hard not to laugh at them. As a matter of fact, I would probably feel really sorry for them, and I would say so. To me, it just doesn’t make any sense and it can’t in any way replace what I have received directly from my various human teachers and guides.
An astral-only initiation or a self-initiation can’t replace a traditional initiation, and in some cases, they can even be counter productive. There is only so much that one person can do by themselves, even with a lifetime of personal study and experience. At certain times everyone needs to have a teacher or elder to assist and guide them, and at all times, everyone needs a peer group to help them objectify their experiences. There are no substitutes or alternatives, regardless of what anyone may say. If someone ever tells you that you can acquire a high initiation or a personal transformation without any outside challenge, group or teacher, then you should avoid that person who so advises you as a fraud and a cheat, especially if they offer to do it for a fee.
That’s my opinion on this controversial subject. I know that some will not agree with me, but I believe that most will see the reason and the importance in what I am communicating. If someone ever came up to me and told me that they had paid someone to give them an astral-only initiation into witchcraft, I think that I would try very hard not to laugh at them. As a matter of fact, I would probably feel really sorry for them, and I would say so. To me, it just doesn’t make any sense and it can’t in any way replace what I have received directly from my various human teachers and guides.
Frater Barrabbas
For anybody who's still on the fence after all that, look at it this way: If I were to take a photograph of you, slap it on a sock puppet, and walk the puppet through the Golden Dawn Neophyte ceremony, would you feel initiated? Of course you wouldn't. That's "astral initiation," folks!
ReplyDelete@Ananael Qaa - ROFLMAO!
ReplyDeleteCare Frater,
ReplyDeletethank you for this very informative post and excerpts from your book. Your approach to showing the required physical nature of initiation is very good and very impressive.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you point out how silly it would be for someone to claim astral initiation into a Witchcraft tradition. In all my years, I too have never met anyone claiming this. To assume that somehow the Golden Dawn and other magical traditions are less requiring of the sacrament of the real, bodily wisdom that stems from physical initiation belittles these traditions.
I responded to GH Fr PDR (Robert Zink) as soon as I saw his post. Three times I have posted my (opposing) comments, but they are yet to appear (though he has put up two new posts on another blog in the meantime). I would hate to think there is censorship going on here based solely on opinion, but am beginning to suspect this. In any case, I expanded my comments and put a post on MOTO on the subject, which agrees with you but addressing GH Fr PDR's points directly. Thanks
http://magicoftheordinary.wordpress.com/2011/01/04/astral-initiation/
Care Frater Barrabas,
ReplyDeleteConsidering all of the buzz that GH Frater Robert Zink's latest article on "Astral" Initiation has generated, it would be very nice if Robert would actually engage SOMEONE in the Blogosphere in actual debate or at least sincere dialogue about this thorny topic.
It doesn't really matter if it were Sam Scarborough, Nick Farrell, Peregrin, me - or even someone like you from outside the Golden Dawn community - whose objections Frater Zink would actually address in real dialogue with about this.
As long as Robert continues to use his blog as though it were a Blogosphere billboard, the discussion about this thorny issue sadly can not advance and the Golden Dawn community will not be able to move beyond it to greater harmony.
- David Griffin
Care Frater Barrabas,
ReplyDeleteConsidering all fo the buzz generated by GH Frater Zink's latest article in astral-only initiation, it would be nice if Robert Zink would actually answer in sincere dialogue the myriad of objections that have been raised by scholars all across the magickal community.
It doesn't really matter who Frater Zink chooses to dialogue with: Nick Farrell, Sam Scarborough, Peregrin, me - or even someone from outside of the Golden Dawn community like you - about this. What matters is that the matter be directly discussed in an honest and forthright manner.
As long as Frater Zink continues to use his blog as though it were a Blogosphere billboard, then nothing will ever be resolved in regard to this thorny and divisive issue, and the Golden Dawn community will not be able to move forward towards greater harmony.
David Griffin
Thanks for all of your posts, everyone. I think that all of this proves that Robert Zink is just a snake oil salesman and is not interested in any kind of dialogue that doesn't agree with him. He has isolated himself and his group for some very shady reasons.
ReplyDeleteNot another GD flame article!
ReplyDeleteOver the years ive seen a lot of mud slinging in the Golden Dawn community and thats the main reason I left one particular GD group was due to immaturity from several groups. It was ridiculous. The last thing I expected to read, on this fantastic blog, was the above article, w/ names mentioned. I am honestly surprised. From a system that should be espousing personal and collective growth, there sure is a lot of Jockeying of egos for first place in the Golden Dawn Race. Dont get me wrong, I love the system, ive met some great people, but all the great people have been humble, dedicated and walk the path even some w/ a limp as they heal and grow. The others seemed more concerned about who is right and who is wrong...that is not an attractive quality in anyone, let alone an adept. The path instills wisdom and clarity, the dross will fall to the wayside as we progress. We need not point it out...if the dross lingers, keep working or move on if you are compelled to look at anothers.
Ive met met a leader of a large GD group and been part of their initiations and rituals...I prefer a solo path until that particular group finds its inner wisdom.
Pax to every one mentioned in the article above, Lux to everyone striving to find themselves and their place in the universe, and Blessings to you Frater Barrabbas for this wonderful blog.
Puer Aeternus
Care Fr Puer Aeternus,
ReplyDeleteWe may have a different definition of flaming here. Fr Barrabbas and I may disagree on some things, but I am always impressed by his presentation of thoughts and facts, not ad hominem attacks. I see no personal attacks in the post above, only a refutation of ideas GH Fr PDR posted on a public blog.
Only in his comment above does he get personal, and call GH Fr PDR a 'snake oil salesman'.
Back and forth arguing magical points and theology etc without recourse to personal attacks is not flaming, and I think very needed in our broader community. Thanks :)
Knee jerk reaction...using the word "Flame" was incorrect, apologies.
ReplyDelete@Peregrin - I believe that my statement was that anyone who is unwilling to engage in a cogent dialogue about potentially disputed doctrines is like a "snake oil salesman." He will allow a dialogue between himself and various plants who will talk up his product, and the lone dissenter is excluded. I think that everyone knows the analogy, and it is not name calling but merely telling truth to obvious deceit.
ReplyDeleteI know that I have not been allowed any slack for any of my statements here, since I appear to have a pretty sharp group of readers and friends out in the blogsphere and in real life. I have to defend my statements, but that is because I allow a free discourse of ideas. Apparently, RZ is not anywhere near as open. Anyway, enough said on that topic.
Ah...sorry, if I misread you Frater. Still waiting for my comments on his post (posted several times now) to appear... sad, very sad. :(
ReplyDeleteFrater Barrabbas , I believe you may have over-simplified something in order to disqualify Mr. Zink's approach to astral initiation, viz. it isn't astral-only. I've spoken to an adept of his order and he says that in no uncertain terms Robert suggests that people obtain a physical initiation; not because he doesn't believe in the effectiveness of astral initiation, but because he recognizes the psyhological value of the psychopomp; but because not everyone can afford that, they provide the work on the astral. Secondly, I believe that in that blog-post you mentioned of his, he states that in order for someone to reach the grade of portal in his EOGD they must physically undergo the initiations of the Outer Order.
ReplyDeleteHaving been a member of a few different orders where I had gone through a physical initiation it surprises and saddens me that even when a person goes through a physical initiation they don't put forth the work to transform themselves. Or opt to sit for four to six hours in one night so that they can reach Master Mason as quickly as possible. Physical initiation is no more of a guarantee to spiritual evolution than its alternative.
From the Golden Dawn's own ceremony it reads during the confession of the Hierophant at the Equinox 'Fratres et Sorores of the Order, seeing that the whole intention of the Lower Mysteries, or of external initiation, is by the intervention of the Symbol, Ceremonial, and Sacrament, so to lead the Soul that it may be withdrawn from the attraction of matter and delivered from the absorption therein, whereby it walks in somnambulism, knowing not whence it cometh nor whither it goeth; and seeing also, that thus withdrawn, the Soul by true direction must be brought to study of Divine Things, that it may offer the only clean Oblation and acceptable sacrifice, which is Love expressed towards God, Man and the Universe. Now, therefore, I confess and testify thereto, from my Throne in this Temple, and I promise, so far as in me lies, to lead you by the Rites of this Order, faithfully conserved, and exhibited with becoming reverence, that through such love and such sacrifice, you may be prepared in due time for the greater Mysteries, the Supreme and inward Initiation.'
- Personally, I feel that physical initiation is at the very least preferable, if not necessary. However, it seems that even during physical initiation candidates are just as likely to have gone through an over-dramatized spiritual play; and that the concern of the Golden Dawn was never really on the physical, but on the spiritual.
I tried posting this comment earlier, but it appears to be to big to be a comment *LOL* so I'll put in parts.
ReplyDeleteFrater Barrabbas , I believe you may have over-simplified something in order to disqualify Mr. Zink's approach to astral initiation, viz. it isn't astral-only. I've spoken to an adept of his order and he says that in no uncertain terms Robert suggests that people obtain a physical initiation; not because he doubts the effectiveness of the astral, but rather because he recognizes the value of the psycho-pomp; and would rather teach than exclude if that is the only reason for someone not becoming familiar with the Golden Dawn. . Secondly, I believe that in that blog-post you mentioned of his, he states that in order for someone to reach the grade of portal they must physically undergo the initiations of the outer order.
Having been a member of a few different orders where I had gone through a physical initiation it surprises and saddens me that even when a person goes through a physical initiation they don't put forth the work to transform themselves. Or opt to sit for six hours in one night so that they can reach Master Mason as quickly as possible.
In your own Equinox ceremony it states: Fratres et Sorores of the Order, seeing that the whole intention of the Lower Mysteries, or of external initiation, is by the intervention of the Symbol, Ceremonial, and Sacrament, so to lead the Soul that it may be withdrawn from the attraction of matter and delivered from the absorption therein, whereby it walks in somnambulism, knowing not whence it cometh nor whither it goeth; and seeing also, that thus withdrawn, the Soul by true direction must be brought to study of Divine Things, that it may offer the only clean Oblation and acceptable sacrifice, which is Love expressed towards God, Man and the Universe. Now, therefore, I confess and testify thereto, from my Throne in this Temple, and I promise, so far as in me lies, to lead you by the Rites of this Order, faithfully conserved, and exhibited with becoming reverence, that through such love and such sacrifice, you may be prepared in due time for the greater Mysteries, the Supreme and inward Initiation.
ReplyDeleteI would opt for a physical initiation. However, it is not a guarantee that anything has taken place within in a candidate. Nor, according to the Hierophant, does it seem like the physical is the focus for the Supreme and inward initiation.
the first part of my post left so I'll repost it: Frater Barrabbas , I believe you may have over-simplified something in order to disqualify Mr. Zink's approach to astral initiation, viz. it isn't astral-only. I've spoken to an adept of his order and he says that in no uncertain terms Robert suggests that people obtain a physical initiation; not because he doubts the effectiveness of the astral, but rather because he recognizes the value of the psycho-pomp; and would rather teach than exclude if that is the only reason for someone not becoming familiar with the Golden Dawn. . Secondly, I believe that in that blog-post you mentioned of his, he states that in order for someone to reach the grade of portal they must physically undergo the initiations of the outer order.
ReplyDeleteHaving been a member of a few different orders where I had gone through a physical initiation it surprises and saddens me that even when a person goes through a physical initiation they don't put forth the work to transform themselves. Or opt to sit for six hours in one night so that they can reach Master Mason as quickly as possible.
@ Augustine Amana
ReplyDeleteWhen Frater Barrabbas qualifies what the EOGD is offering as "astral-only" initiation, he is making reference to the so-called "astral initiation" sold over the internet by Robert Zink.
"Astral-only", in my opinion is a fair characterization of this peculiar practice, as
1. It is performed without the physical presence of the candidate in the temple. Moreover,
2. Mr. Zink has argued (in my opinion, incorrectly) that all initiation happens on the astral anyway, so "astral" initiation works without the physical body present in the temple.
The two above practices and arguments by Mr. Zink clearly render Frater Barrabas' characterization of this odd practice as "astral only" as being quite an accurate description of actual EOGD practice and position.