Magic, often considered a mysterious and enchanting art, has captivated human beings for centuries. It is a practice that claims to manipulate natural forces and bend reality to one's will. Over time, magic has taken on different meanings and interpretations across cultures and societies. Whether it is the magic of illusionists and stage performers or the ancient mystical craft of wizards and sorcerers, the allure of magic continues to fascinate and intrigue people of all ages. Throughout history, magic has been closely associated with the supernatural and the occult. It is commonly portrayed as an extraordinary power possessed by gifted individuals who possess the ability to perform extraordinary feats.
• Includes instructions for developing psychic and magical powers.
Despite this, his life was characterised by an anti-bourgeois approach hostile to both the dominant tradition of the West Christianity and Catholicism and to contemporary civilization the modern world of democracy and materialism. Anyone who has exhausted the possibilities of the mundane world and is ready to take the steps necessary to purify the soul in the light of knowledge and the fire of dedication will find a number of expert mentors here.
It is commonly portrayed as an extraordinary power possessed by gifted individuals who possess the ability to perform extraordinary feats. In ancient civilizations, magic was deeply connected with religious practices and was used to communicate with the gods, harness cosmic energies, or perform healing rituals. In these cultures, magicians were revered as wise men and women with special knowledge and access to hidden realms.
Introduction to Magic
For the first time in English, this classic Italian text collects the rites, practices, and esoteric knowledge of the powerful and mysterious UR Group for the use of aspiring mages. Included here are instructions for creating an etheric double, speaking words of power, and interacting with entities, as well as translations of such arcane texts as the Tibetan Thunderbolt Diamond Path, the Mithraic cult's "Grand Papyrus of Paris," and the Greco-Egyptian De Mysteriis.
Sign Up to receive our online newsletter » Other books by this author The rites, practices, and texts collected by the mysterious UR group for the use of aspiring mages.• Rare Hermetic texts published in English for the first time.
• Includes instructions for developing psychic and magical powers.
In 1927 Julius Evola and other leading Italian intellectuals formed the mysterious UR group. Their goal: to bring their individual egos into a state of superhuman power and awareness in which they could act "magically" on the world. Their methods: the practice of ancient Tantric and Buddhist rituals and the study of rare Hermetic texts. So successful were they that rumors spread throughout Italy of the group's power, and Mussolini himself became quite fearful of them. Now for the first time in English Introduction to Magic collects the rites, practices, and knowledge of the UR group for the use of aspiring mages.
Included in Introduction to Magic are instructions for creating an etheric double, speaking words of power, using fragrances, interacting with entities, and creating a "magical chain." Among the arcane texts translated are the Tibetan teachings of the Thunderbolt Diamond Path, the Mithraic mystery cult's "Grand Papyrus of Paris," and the Greco-Egyptian magical text De Mysteriis. Anyone who has exhausted the possibilities of the mundane world and is ready to take the steps necessary to purify the soul in the light of knowledge and the fire of dedication will find a number of expert mentors here.
Introduction to Magic
Rituals and Practical Techniques for the Magus
Editor's Note
Preface
Introduction
Part I
Pietro Negri * Sub Specie Interioritatis
Leo * Barriers
Abraxas * Knowledge of the Waters
Luce * Opus Magicum: Concentration and Silence
Ea * The Nature of Initiatic Knowledge
Part II
The Path of Awakening According to Gustav Meyrink
Luce * Opus Magicum: Fire
Abraxas * Three Ways
Leo * Attitudes
Commentaries on the Opus Magicum
Part III
Leo * First Steps Toward the Experience of the "Subtle Body"
Knowledge as Liberation
Abraxas * The Hermetic Caduceus and the Mirror
Luce * Opus Magicum: The "Words of Power" and the Characters of Beings
Pietro Negri * Knowledge of the Symbol
Part IV
Apathanatismos: Mithraic Ritual of the Great Magical Papyrus of Paris
Part V
Summary
Abraxas * Instructions for the "Awareness of Breath"
Oso * Notes on the Logos
Arom * First Experiences
Ea * The Problem of Immortality
Part VI
Leo * Beyond the Threshold of Sleep
Ea * On the Magical View of Life
Abraxas * The Second Preparation of the Hermetic Caduceus
Iagla * Experiences: the Law of Beings
The Path of Realization According to Buddha
Various Commentaries
Part VII
Luce * Instructions for Ceremonial Magic
Ea * The Doctrine of the "Immortal Body"
De Pharmaco Catholico
Part VIII
Abraxas * Magical Operations with "Two Vessels"--Reduplication
Tibetan Initiatic Teachings: The "Void" and the "Diamond-Thunderbolt"
Arvo * On the Counter-Initiation
Luce * Opus Magicum: Perfumes
Part IX
Arvo * Conscious Thought--Relaxation--Silence
Ea * Considerations on Magic and Its Powers
Abraxas * Magic of the Image
Pietro Negri * An Italian Alchemical Text on Lead Tablets
Part X
Luce * Opus Magicum: Chains
Leo * The Attitude Toward Initiatic Teaching
Ea * Freedom, Precognition, and the Relativity of Time
Commentary on the Opus Magicum
Part XI
Iagla * Serpentine Wisdom
Luce * Invocations
Excerpts from De Mysteriis
The Message of the Polar Star
Sirius * Mist and Symbols
Ea * On the General Doctrine of Mantras
Part XII
Alba * De Naturae Sensu
Leo * Aphorisms
Pietro Negri * Adventures and Misadventures in Magic
Various Commentaries
Julius Evola (1898-1974) was one of the foremost authorities on the world's esoteric traditions. He is the author of The Hermetic Tradition, The Yoga of Power, Revolt Against the Modern World, Eros and the Mysteries of Love, The Doctrine of Awakening, Mystery of the Grail Meditations on the Peaks, and Men Among the Ruins.
"Evola . . . had a clarity of mind and a gift for explaining tremendously difficult concepts in nonacademic language. . . . His descriptions of subtle states and the practices that lead to them are as lucid as these difficult subjects allow."
Gnosis
"The essays of the UR Group constitute the most complete and the highest magical teaching ever set before the public. . . . The ultimate goal is the identification of the individual with the Absolute. This is a powerful and disturbing book, and a classic. One can be quite certain that it will still have readers centuries from now."
Joscelyn Godwin, author of Harmonies of Heaven and Earth
"This collection of essays . . . cover the practical, the theoretical and the unclassifiable, such as the Mithraic Ritual of the Great Magical Papyrus of Paris, the only ritual from the Ancient Mysteries to have survived intact."
The Watkins Review, Winter 2001/02
"Introduction to Magic is a collection of intelligent and erudite essays (many of them admirably concise)."
Hagal, May 2001
". . . should be standard reading for any serious academic or practical student of occultism. . . . Experienced occultists will welcome it as a breath of fresh air and a journey into little discussed territories."
Mark Stavish, The Institute for Hermetic Studies, Mar 2006
". . . an important book for those who study esoteric thought."
Brigit's Feast, December 2001
" . . . this book is highly recommended without reserve."
Jason Jeffrey, New Dawn, January-February 2002
"A landmark publication for the new age, delineating clearly between mysticism and magic, written in a Germanic style that allows for unhurried, penetrating insights. . . . You don't read this book, you experience it. . . . A mighty book, like a torrent, that sweeps paltry modern ideas away."
The Book Reader, Spring/Summer 2002
"This new work in hand is unlike any other book on magic previously published."
New Dawn, September-October 2001
The practice of magic often involves the use of spells, incantations, charms, and rituals to invoke desired outcomes. It draws upon the belief that words and symbols have the power to manifest intentions and bring about change in the physical world. From casting love spells to seeking protection against evil spirits, magic offers a way for individuals to influence their surroundings and create their own destiny. However, the perception of magic has not always been positive. In some cultures, practitioners of magic were viewed as threats or even enemies of established religions or authorities. In the Middle Ages, for example, many women accused of being witches were persecuted and executed. This dark side of magic emphasizes the fear and suspicion that has often surrounded the practice. In modern times, magic has evolved into a form of entertainment and performance art. Stage magicians and illusionists delight audiences with mind-boggling tricks and illusions that defy logic and challenge our perception of reality. These performers rely on skillful sleight of hand, misdirection, and scientific principles to create seemingly impossible illusions. While magic may be a source of wonder and entertainment, it is crucial to clarify that it is not based on supernatural powers or the ability to defy the laws of physics. Rather, the art of magic lies in the art of deception and illusion, employing psychological techniques to fool the senses and create an experience of wonder and awe. In conclusion, magic is a multifaceted concept that has captivated humankind since the dawn of civilization. Whether seen as a mystical power, a spiritual practice, or an entertaining performance, magic continues to fascinate and ignite the imagination. Despite its varied interpretations, magic remains an enduring part of human culture and an avenue for exploration, wonder, and creativity..
Reviews for "The Magical Art of Hypnosis: Harnessing the Power of Suggestion"
1. John - 2 stars
I found the "Introduction to Magic" to be rather disappointing. The book failed to provide any practical tips or techniques for aspiring magicians and instead focused on the history and theory of magic. While the historical aspect was interesting, I feel like I didn't gain any real knowledge or skills after reading it. I was expecting more of a hands-on guide, but this book fell short in that regard.
2. Sarah - 1 star
I was extremely dissatisfied with "Introduction to Magic." The author provided a very brief and superficial overview of different types of magic without going into much depth. Moreover, the writing style was dry and boring, making it difficult to stay engaged while reading. The book lacked any sort of practical exercises or step-by-step instructions, which is what I was hoping for. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone who is looking to learn and develop their magic skills.
3. Michael - 3 stars
"Introduction to Magic" was somewhat underwhelming for me. While I appreciated the historical context and cultural significance of magic, I was hoping for more practical guidance. The book touched on various aspects of magic, such as card tricks and illusions, but didn't provide any detailed explanations or tutorials. The author's writing style was also a bit dense and hard to follow at times. Overall, I think this book might be interesting for someone who is purely interested in the history of magic, but it fell short for someone looking to actually learn and perform magic tricks.
4. Emily - 2 stars
I was not impressed by "Introduction to Magic." The author seemed to assume that the readers already had some prior knowledge about magic, as there was little explanation of basic concepts and techniques. This left me feeling confused and frustrated as a beginner. Additionally, the book lacked visual aids or illustrations to accompany the explanations, making it even more difficult to understand. I believe there are better resources out there for someone who wants to learn magic from scratch.