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Thoth-Hermes Podcast

Religion & Spirituality Podcas

A podcast about the world of the Western Esoteric Tradition – Occult-Magic-Mysticism-Paranormal

Location:

Austria

Description:

A podcast about the world of the Western Esoteric Tradition – Occult-Magic-Mysticism-Paranormal

Language:

English


Episodes

S11-E1 – Modern Alchemy – ARCANUM AND THOTH HERMES

3/21/2024
SPRING EQUINOX AND A NEW PROJECT! As announced a couple of weeks ago Ike Baker from the great Arcanum Podcast and I have decided to produce a monthly show together, where we interview each time two people about a particular subject, mostly around occult and magical practices. And here we are: Enjoy a great talk, which we had about Modern Alchemy, with Phoenix Aurelius and Daniel Wiseman. This episode is also available as a Video on my and Ike's YouTube Channels. So this is the first episode of that kind, and it ends the long break that I took with this podcast This will not mean that I will do weekly show again, but from time to time in between those monthly talks will also present the kind of episodes that you have been used to. I hope you will enjoy this new format. I apologise for the brief message here, but life is still extremely busy and Ike and I were a bit late with the final edit of the show. Enjoy and looking forward to other projects I will produce for you.

Duration:01:37:26

BREAKING NEWS – Ike and Rudolf talk…

2/16/2024

Duration:00:05:45

S10-E12 – The Art of the Matter-Brian Cotnoir

11/12/2023
If you CLICK ON TEXT IN CAPITALS in below's article, you will access the links to the respective subject! Welcome to Season 10, Episode 12 of the Thoth-Hermes Podcast. This afternoon’s dialogue finds Rudolf and Brian Cotnoir in circulatio on the experience of alchemy. Distilled in the process, Brian shares on his life as an author, filmmaker, and practicing physical alchemist of over 50 years. Please, listen for dispersion. Then CONSIDER HIS TITLES, On Alchemy (2023), Alchemy the Poetry of Matter (2017), many other publications and Zines! Brian received his initiation of the Adult Library Card in 7th Grade, along with the core occult section maxim “don’t tell your parents”. We can speculate that many listeners would report a similar awakening. His first fleeting (20 minute) experience of New York City’s Weiser bookstore was also nascent. Continuing to function in consensus reality, Brian majored in Chemistry and minored in Physics, spending time also working at Weiser Books. An MFA in Film followed. Brian’s work on the big screen has been aired by HBO, PBS, Sundance Festival, and other luminary recognitions. Parallel to this, Brian has experimented as a true alchemist of physical matter- from mercury dime-making, to tea, to the slightly less mundane: all insightful to the “art of arts and the art of the creative act”. Brian and Rudolf explore the esoteric discomfort with material and matter. Brian observes “you think because you have a brain”, recentering the necessity of both psyche and matter. Both men find parallels between matter and the creative process- Brian, in filmmaking and Rudolf in opera and stagecraft. The Secrets of the Maze are also ventured, as well as the Process of Reading. The conversation honors the human capacity for alchemical action as a gift and possible mission from the larger source. Our ability to separate, clarify, and recombine are core tasks to any creative endeavor, including the journey of an individual lifetime. Brian shares insight around his Zine making, as well as an invitation for future seekers to work the Zine themes into larger creations. Brian will be featuring at the November 19th 2023 “SUNDAY ZINE FAIR” at the Brooklyn Museum, and welcomes any listeners to join him in conversation at that time. Brian's zines and books are available in Europe through: Watkins Books carries the books online, the physical shop carries the zines. IglooTree, an online shop, carries the books and all the zines On Alchemy: Essential Practices and Making Art as Alchemy available through Watkins Books in London. Brian and I encourage folks to order copies through their local physical bookstores. KhepriPress.com To join the Khepri Press mailing list please Sign Up Here Brooklyn Museum Exhibition Nov 17, 2023 - March 31, 2024 - Copy Machine Artists Music played in this episode This episode features again musicians who are also listeners of this show and who sent me their music for you, the audience. Two of them were already presented in previous shows, and as you particularly enjoyed their art, we bring them back here. The third piece is from an artist new to this podcast. Enjoy and support those musicians! 1) OVER AND OVER - Brian Lucas, from his album "Presence" Brian Lucas lives in Oakland, CA. He paints,

Duration:01:54:37

S10-E11 – Healing the Haunted House-Peter Levenda

11/5/2023
Peter Levenda, a native of the Bronx, New York City, has an MA in Religious Studies and has published over 20 books, mostly in the area of hermeticism and the occult, and a trilogy of books concerning Nazism and postwar Nazism, as well as a book on China trade. He is most known for Unholy Alliance, which has a foreword by Norman Mailer and which has been translated into a dozen foreign languages, and Sinister Forces: A Grimoire of American Political Witchcraft. He has also published his study of the Asian alchemical influences in the work of Thomas Vaughan, and the influence of Lovecraft on the work of Kenneth Grant. This is a warm November welcome to Season 10 Episode 11 of Thoth-Hermes Podcast. Today’s show brings us into conversation with American writer Peter Levenda. Peter has authored a range of titles on histories of American occultism, Nazi occultism, and the dynamics of conspiracy theory. After successfully pursuing an international business career Information Technology, Peter attained an MA in Religious Studies and Asian Studies. Peter is a member of the American Academy of Religion, several societies, and a member of AFIO (the Association of Former Intelligence Officers). Peter is careful to distinguish his expertise as around the context and content of conspiracy, rather than their promulgator. Repeatedly in the interview, he stresses the importance of listeners self-educating on the factors that make populations generally- and occultists specifically- vulnerable to conspiracy content. Peter also clearly notes that he is a “left-leaning” political “independent” capable of engaging with a variety of worldviews. Peter also offers the Adorno “Fascism Scale” as a resource for study. Peter shares formative childhood experiences- rejecting his childhood Catholicism, while retaining the seed of mysticism. A fearful encounter on a mountain in 1963 cemented his personal conviction on the presence of More. High school found Peter conducting seances, reading Crowley and the Tao Te Ching. All of this is reported with a combination of good humor and lasting reverence. A selection of Peter Levenda's published books Rudolf and Peter explore his writing, some of it based around his premise that “America is a haunted house” of unceded territory carrying the displaced and disregarded practices of the First Nations people. Additionally, the influence of encroaching European settlers’ own occult traditions and folkways. Turning to the West at large, Peter and Rudolf distinguish between the “traditionalist” and “surrealist” edges of esotericism; one edge flirting with the Authoritarian Right and the other edge liable to persecution from the former. Peter describes the use of “fiction” as parallel to Surrealism in the ability to analogize “truths” that cannot be proven as “non-fiction”, in the midst of grey area on both. Peter suggests this wisdom is present in many Holy Books. Peter identifies “magic” as situated in a space between Science and Religion, with the Shadow of conspiracy theory. A comprehensive take-down of conspiracy mindedness in the contemporary United States follows, including: “longstanding” inadequacy of news media, a population demotivated to learn context for theories, and the dearth of “tik-tok enlightenment”. Peter further names related internal difficulties within occult groups, including sections of the contemporary Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO) and the leadership of the late James Wasserman; the New York-based Wasserman and L...

Duration:01:54:44

S10-E10 – AI and Technology of the Imagination-Robert Gordon

10/29/2023
Greetings for Season 10, Episode 10 of Thoth-Hermes Podcast. In a calendrical resonance, Rudolf meets up with Robert Gordon- exactly one year after their last episode together! A gregarious Australian, Robert holds an M.A. in Museum Studies from University College London. In 2022, Lewis Masonic publishing released his book 21st Century Rosicrucianism. Today’s exploration centers on Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly in the context of language-based models. Rudolf characterizes digital technology as typically either a non-topic or guarded subject in the worldviews of esotericists. Later, Robert observes that many depth creators in high-technology, green technology, and adjacent fields have esoteric involvement. With these twin realities concurrent, the discussion emphasizes the need for active contribution to societal conversations about AI as a “technology of the imagination”. As both men gamely note, we are in the 21st Century, not the 16th- as much as we seek to honor history. Robert and Rudolf note the need for “reverential use of science”, Robert noting that Newton wrote more on theology than physics. Though exoteric religious doctrine is often at odds with the Esoteric (particularly in America), some parallels are noted. One is the belief in a higher Source as the bestower of human imagination, and consequently a form of sanctity in humans’ creative actions. Does AI connect to the Source through humanity? Is it fundamentally “natural” or “unnatural”? And how does the subjective, constructed nature of human-to-human communication mirror controversies with AI? Robert's utopian science-novel he wrote in 2015 There is some specific time spent with the question of AI and it’s visual “art” forays. Robert truly “goes there” makes a comparison to alchemical manuscripts’ images. Can content and imaginal inputs from humans produce outputs with “soul”? Could the vast flow of creative information placed into AI datasets produce a new form of “collective unconscious”? In many cases, today’s conversation walks a non-directive, even-handed line between answering these questions and placing them back to the listener. The “hubris of the magi” narrative is acknowledged, as well as the mythos of Daedalus. Do we only hear about the hubris that creates catastrophe? Other careful questions include: can we emphasize the use of AI for sorcery, hall-of-mirrors illusion, or as a possible bulwark against sorcery? Could AI be an actual human-created agent of healing in our society? Can we redevelop a cultural norm of functionally conversing with disagreement? Could AI help us? Does AI have to be marketplace centered or could it assist with counterbalance in the current corruption of political systems? Can AI possibly contribute or experience states that we broadly term as “shamanic”? Is there anything that this human creation can “unlock” for us? Can it become a “technological tradition of imagination”? What human wisdom is offered in the distinction between “dogmatic” and “voluntarily enigmatic”? These prompts are all introduced and posed on today’s episode. Enjoy! I have posted this image already last year, when Robert and I speak in Season 9. But for today's subject it is even more important that you have a look at this website and the blog! Robert Gordon's website "Future Conscience" SRIA London (Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia) has number of highly interesting talks on Video which partly also touch our subject - and Robert Gordon also appears in them! Music played in this episode

Duration:01:58:09

S10-E9 – More than just Grimoires-David Rankine

10/22/2023
"What is clear is that there are three main themes running parallel through the Grimoires, with greater or less importance in individual works. These themes are spirit conjuration, divination, and simple charms/spells for dealing with the hardships of daily life and seeking to improve it." (David Rankine) Welcome to Season 10, Episode 9 of Thoth-Hermes podcast. Today, Rudolf shares a conversation with author and occultist, David Rankine. The exploration ranges over the past 40 years of modern British esotericism, and into David’s commitment to writing and knowledge sharing as an offering to Mystery. This is an easy-listening dialogue that carries its own treasures of tight question-answer teachings along in the flow. David quickly brings us into the 1980s UK occult scene, which he describes as collegial, confidential and non-competitive. Oxford, London and Leeds are all identified as hotspots during this period. Turning to the Now, David weighs the balance between organizations’ tension of socializing and secrecy. David and Rudolf explore the question: “What is a ‘serious magical attitude’?” with way of daily life, worldview and engagement in the 100th Monkey influence all composing the answer. Ethics are undergirding principle in this definition, noting that “serious magicians” are “seriously ethical”. David describes his slow development towards ancestor magic, and its interaction with aging as a human and maturation as a magician. This conversation honors the slow, serious adaptation of practices over a magical lifetime. Rudolf quotes David’s definition of “magic” in his early book Becoming Magic, “consciously direct energy flowing towards evolution”. David also shares his concept of “conjuration”, as a Process- occasional, exceptional, purposeful- which develops a long-term symbiotic dynamic with a chosen spiritual entity. Not, as David notes, “a Pokemon collection”. This year (2023) David published volumes 1 and 2 of The Grimoire Encyclopaedia…. With more yet to be revealed! Describing the construction process, David credits the necessity of his enthusiastic, persistent editor Erzebet Barthold. David also centers on the Bible as the foundational grimoire of record, providing a lens for panoramic view of historical Western magical publications. Rudolf asks the core question: “what defines a grimoire?” and David responds gamely. Enjoy! David Rankine's home pageA direct link to Hadean Press to buy the Grimoire EncyclopediaAnd his Amazon book page Music played in this episode This week I would like to present to you an exciting pianist - GAMAZDA She does piano covers of famous Pop and Rock music titles, three of which we present in this episode. What I find so special about her is not only her stupendous musical talent, her extraordinary power and technique, but also her energy. And as this cannot only be heard, but also seen on her YouTube Channel, I am not only posting a link to that channel here, but also embed one of her videos - discover by yourself! You-Tube Channel 1) TIME - Piano Cover of the Theme from Inception by Hans Zimmer (Track starts at 7:52) 2) BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY - Piano Cover (Track starts at 53:49) 3) SOUND OF SILENCE - Piano Cover (Track starts at 1:39:32) Intro and Outro Musicespecially written and recorded for the Thoth-Hermes Podcast by Chris Roberts

Duration:01:48:56

S10-E8 – Masonic Rosicrucians-CR Dunning Jr

10/15/2023
Today marks Season 10, Episode 8 of Thoth-Hermes Podcast. For this conversation, Rudolf reconvenes with Chuck “CR” Dunning. The conversation submerges into esoteric freemasonry, then transcends into the union of ritual and exoteric religion. Far from limited to the interests of masonry, this is a multi-layered dialogue about the timeless moebius between sincere seekers of “light, life and love”. Chuck is a retired academic and psychotherapist, a self-disclosed Scottish Rite Mason, and author dedicated to guiding initiates into contemplative practice. Chuck has soft-spoken depth rare in today’s scholarly world. His most recent book is an accessible compass of the Rose Croix mysteries. A Rose Croix Oratory (Stone Guild, 2023) has been lauded by readers and reviewers, appreciating its hands-on, plain-language approach. An upcoming publication will delve into Platonic mysticism and its parallels with Craft Masonry. The conversation speaks of the upper degrees’ mythos of descent, laying to waste, then renewal and ascension. The 17th and 18th Degree introduce a visceral story of a mourning initiate, who through persistence encounters the teaching figure of the Nazarene. An encounter with “love” as the “charitas” and “agape” archetype offered by this teacher. This is not the Jesus of fast-food and sound byte religion: it is a mystical encounter of visceral “faith, hope and love”. Religious acceptance is optional, but depth initiation is required. Chuck also notes that all three Abrahamic traditions have wisdom teachings represented over the course of the initiate’s journey. Later, Rudolf and Chuck name interesting implications of the “priestcraft” of ritual found to create change in accordance with the Will of a Higher Power, to connect to the Divine, and to become more effective worldly agents for it. Chuck names the direct root connection with the Catholic Mass ritual as well as the Protestant Order of Service, even in those denominations who might strenuously distance themselves from the concept of “magic”. This flows from Chuck’s exploration of the Rose Croix texts and traditions that named ancient traditions illumination sources for the later emergence of Christianity. Other joyful content along the way includes a service-centered interpretation of the potency of alchemy, magic/magia, and kaballah. We reflect on the verified “alchemy” of meditative practice on the neurochemical physiology of the practitioner. And define True Will as readiness for change away from herd behavior, resiliency under repeated testing, and skillful refinement of personal identity; requiring the recentering on faith, hope and love. CR Dunning Jr's book page on AmazonHere he is on InstagramAnd on Facebook"A Rose Croix Oratory" on Stone Gold Publishing Music played in this episode I found the music on Stefan Kraus on YouTube and thought it to be an excellent fit for this episode: Here a translation of his personal statement on his german website In the 1980s (for private reasons not completed) studies at the Hochschule für Künste Bremen with Luciano Ortis (composition) and Hans Joachim Kauffmann (composition and conducting). Performance of many of his own compositions and arrangements as part of a 12-year engagement as chorus conductor. After 20 years of musical break I started composing again in 2020. Credo Since I do not pursue any economic interests with my music, I do not have to follow dogmas and meet any palatial requirements. Since music is the language of the soul, and every soul is multi-layered, depth can stand next to lightness, beauty next to pain, and grief next to humor,

Duration:01:46:38

S10-E7 – Occult Publishing-Jon Graham

10/8/2023
Autumnal greetings as we converge for Season 10, Episode 7 of Thoth-Hermes Podcast. Today, Rudolf is joined by Jon E. Graham, of Inner Traditions Bear and Company, to explore the current state of occult publishing. Jon joins us from the northeastern United States, in historic Vermont. Jon is a translator, author, and acquisitions editor at Inner Traditions. Jon relates his longstanding interest in initiatory synthesis between Surrealism and Occultism, the path which brought him into esoteric publishing. Jon recommends The Esoteric Secrets of Surrealism as a prompt for curious listeners. A second set of parallels that run in the conversation are the creative processes of a publishing house (Jon’s temple) and that of an opera house (Rudolf’s lineage). Together, they explore the balance of “profitable” and “important”, as well as inclusion of new and established authors. Several times, Jon emphasizes the influence occult practice (as simple as sincere meditation) can have in counterbalancing the online “noise machine” and superficiality of cultural dialogue. He is refreshingly blunt in his rejection of social media, specifically its influence against the clear depth of thought sought by true initiates. With reference to “occult activism”, Jon and Rudolf converge over the need for an attitude of contribution and compassion, based in rational assessment over denial, ideology and Jon’s term: “unicorn fantasy”. Steadfast to his bricks-and-mortar preference, Jon asks the question held by more than one listener: will the Mortlake Books Colloquium, Texts and Traditions, return to Seattle? Enquiring minds need to know. Jon names a variety of publishing trends, celebrating the movement from “101” titles into substantive material, also noting the nascence of translated European texts. Authors named in this Deep Dive renaissance include previous Thoth-Hermes guests, Sasha Chaitow, Marlene Seven-Bremner, and Shani Oates. Jon calls out the need to avoid the mainline tendency to “karaoke publishing” (our second Harry Potter reference, two interviews in a row!) Rudolf asks specifically regarding the vibrant trend of small, independent artisanal occult publishing houses, and the “book-objects” they create. Jon responds with respect and enthusiasm for all involved. Closing with intrigue, Jon references an upcoming creative focus: Odin and the Surrealist process. As Odin undertakes to “sacrifice myself to myself” to receive the rune-mysteries, Jon suggests that Surrealism has parallel in “the psychic realm that is made available through automatist practices”. May more be revealed. Jon Graham is a writer, artist, and a translator specializing in works on surrealism , the occult, and folklore. Among the books he has translated are L'Immaculée Conception by André Breton and Paul Eluard, Du Trop du Réalité by Annie Le Brun, La petite anatomie de l'image by Hans Bellmer, and La maison et ses génies by Claude Lecouteux. He was active with Group Hydra in New York City during the 1980s, a group working from surrealist principles. He lives in Vermont, in the United States where he has been working as the Acquisitions Editor for Inner Traditions, Bear and Company for twenty-seven years. THIS IS JON'S SPECIAL BOOK LIST ABOUT SURREALISM AND ESOTERICISM(click on the title to buy one of those titles) Patrick Lepetit: The Esoteric Secrets of SurrealismAndré Breton: Three Manifestos of SurrealismAndré Breton: Free ReinNadia Choucha: Surrealism and the OccultGrazina Subelyte and Daniel Zamani: Enchanted Modernity: Surrealism and Magic (exhibition catalogue)The Tarot of Leonora Carrington (as well as the books by this artist) Music played in this episode

Duration:01:43:57

S10-E6 – Oldies but Goodies-John Michael Greer

10/1/2023
It’s the return of a good friend! Today we are joined by John Michael Greer, on Season 10 Episode 6 of Thoth-Hermes podcast. Please see earlier episodes with John Michael to learn more of his prolific background. In this episode, we explore three historic Esoteric minds: Dion Fortune, John Gilbert, and Mouni Sadhu (the “silent monk”). We also hear of his upcoming 7-volume release (theme: “tentacles”) and pragmatic thoughts on the balance of Making a Living and Making a Difference as an author and occultist. With John Michael’s usual good humor, we are provided with perspective around publishing’s norm of an audience “with the attention span of a hyperactive gnat”, and the dry statement “religion in the United States is not like religion anywhere else”. Along the way, we also get to hear some plain truths around Harry Potter, and in John Michael’s opinion the “one thing Crowley got right” (hint: it’s stellar). John Michael and Rudolf look at some of the gifts we inherit collectively from Dion Fortune (Violet Mary Firth). One gift is the concept of The Three Rays (devotional, hermetic and nature) as co-creative streams for balance in the development of any spiritual path. A second is, the use of symbols to train the mind in an ongoing process as outlined within her authorship of The Cosmic Doctrine. John Michael also underlines the nuance that during Fortune’s career, there wasn’t yet a tension between Christian and non-Christian occultists. by clicking on one of the images above you will be brought to Aeon Book's website John Gilbert, a 20th Century American from Colorado, holds the enigma of having intentionally chosen not to promote his works or an online presence even leading up to the Millenium. John Michael reflects on the reality of “hundreds” of late 20th Century American initiates who made a similar choice. These important acknowledgements lead into a conversation that includes details on the Universal Gnostic Church, a tiny schism from the founding of Unitarian Universalism. Mouni Sadhu (Mieczyslaw Demetriusz Sudowski) wrote several books John Michael cites as formative in his own esoteric development, including “The Tarot” and “Concentration”. John Michael introduces listeners to several Sadhu titles, and encourages any deck designers to consider collaborating with him, using Sadhu’s work as the basis for a design. And these are the freshly re-publsihed books by Mouni Sadhuonce again, click one one of them to be brought to the publisher's webpage Paulina Gruffman is a PhD Candidate in the History of Religions at Lund University. Her research surrounds Cambridge Classicist, occultist, and early historian of ancient religion, G.R.S. Mead (1863–1933). Building on her M.A. thesis on Mead’s role in the Theosophical Society (Stockholm University, 2021), her forthcoming dissertation is the first in-depth biographical study of Mead’s life and work, and considers his role in the formation of the comparative study of religion, as well as his impact on a range of important scholars in the field, including C.G. Jung, Gershom Scholem, Mircea Eliade, and Henry Corbin. JMG Ecosophia page JMG on AMAZON

Duration:01:47:54

S10-E5 – GRS Mead and CG Jung-Paulina Gruffman

9/24/2023
Welcome to Episode Five, Season Ten of the Thoth-Hermes podcast. This brings us the opportunity to join Rudolf in conversation with Paulina Gruffman, on the subject of GRS Mead. Paulina is a nascent luminary in occult scholarship, currently at PhD candidate at Sweden’s Lund University. Paulina’s academic rooting began with reading CG Jung in her mid-teens. The relationship between Mead and Jung is explored in-depth during this episode. Paulina notes that Jung cited Mead in his own doctoral dissertation, holding dialogue and friendship with him during the development of his own career; 20 of Mead’s books are currently held in the Jung Archive. Paulina speaks as a focused and nuanced researcher, in a long-term journey of examining the entirety of George Robert Stow Mead. She details and distinguishes his pursuits as all three of an occultist, theosophist, and a highly capable “amateur” academic. She acknowledges the critique his work has received from 20th Century academics, undercutting his capability as “amateur” from a dismissive definition of the term. Paulina reminds us that while Mead was an informal academic, and in this sense amateur, he was also amateur as a fully capable Cambridge-educated intellect. Paulina also shares openly regarding her own academic development. Rudolf and Paulina tackle the perennial question of academic objectivity’s tension or coexistence with personal occult practices of researchers. Paulina articulates her role primarily as a “historian” academic, and emphasizes the necessity of using primary sources and critical analysis… which do not preclude nor necessitate personal practices: a refreshing “it depends”! The conversation explores Mead’s assertion of the term “gnosis” and “gnostic” as definable apart from the associated historical movement; further, as both a staged process and a state of being. Mead’s many years and roles with the Theosophical Society (leaving in 1909) informed his conceptualization. Mead served as the final private secretary to Helena Blavatsky, a member of the Theosophical Society’s Circle of Twelve, and editor of the Theosophical Review. Paulina also details Mead’s founding of the Quest Society, and interest in the development of the (still existent) Eranos conferences. Just three of GRS Mead's most important books Paulina Gruffman is a PhD Candidate in the History of Religions at Lund University. Her research surrounds Cambridge Classicist, occultist, and early historian of ancient religion, G.R.S. Mead (1863–1933). Building on her M.A. thesis on Mead’s role in the Theosophical Society (Stockholm University, 2021), her forthcoming dissertation is the first in-depth biographical study of Mead’s life and work, and considers his role in the formation of the comparative study of religion, as well as his impact on a range of important scholars in the field, including C.G. Jung, Gershom Scholem, Mircea Eliade, and Henry Corbin. Paulina Gruffman's page on Academia.edu Her Master's Degree Thesis on GRS Mead Her profile at Lund University Music played in this episode Two composers of classical music, who were bost very much influenced by esoteric and occult themes in the times of GRS Mead are presented here today. Here is an introductory text by Paulina Gruffmann: Having posted previously on the innovative and experimental composer Alexander Scriabin and ...

Duration:01:56:28

S10-E4 – Silver Age Russian Rosicrucians-Charlotte Cowell

9/17/2023
Welcome to Episode Four, Season Ten of the Thoth-Hermes podcast. Today, Rudolf meets with Charlotte Cowell, translator of The Solar Way (Silver Age Russian Occult Rosicrucian Schools) and author of multiple other titles. Charlotte is the founder, owner and editor of Shin Publications. Charlotte is a delightful guest, simultaneously a fierce, warm and self-effacing intellectual presence in the conversation. A graduate of Oxford University (MA in Ancient and Modern History), Charlotte has pursued the Mysteries for several decades after receiving solo and spontaneous esoteric Christian rebirth in college. Charlotte cites The Meditations on the Tarot (Anonymous) as a cornerstone text for her during her initiatory unfolding. She is also refreshingly frank, in moments, around reconciling the dual paths of Christian… Esotericism. An example being, reading “Meditations” as distinct from using the Cards directly. Listeners on a similar trajectory may well relate to these personal processes. Charlotte brings us into the stark and resilient journeys of Valentin Tomberg, Vladimir Shmakov, Nina Roudnikova and G.O. Mebes (the last, Swedish). These thinkers faced true and visceral danger from Russian political turmoil, in the face of this making many strategic decisions to preserve their body of work for future seekers. Alongside this important history, Charlotte and Rudolph explore the significance of “Shin”. The conversation re-examines “neutralization of the binary” (a term from last week’s interview) and the interplay with triangular transcendental synthesis. Charlotte emphasizes her respect for the pragmatic effort made by the persecuted initiates, analogizing her work to laying a memorial wreath in their honor. Charlotte writes in one of her publications that her intention is “…a tribute to the Masters, from time immemorial until the present day, who’ve served to inspire and shine light on the otherwise solitary path of the seeker; a gift for those who find themselves peering across the abyss for such lights, or stand looking back at the ocean from the refuge of safe shores, searching the distant horizon for memories of the crossing…” from whatever personal vantage point, may this conversation inspire listeners. ABOVE: The cover of those four highly interesting books we speak about in the episode. Click anywhere on them to be brought to Shin Publications website to learn more and order them BELOW: The original painting that inspired the cover of the Shmakov book. It is by artist ArtTheurg, who also created the wonderful illustrations in The Holy Book of Thoth. Click here for Charlotte Cowell's homepage Find the books on Amazon Charlotte's YouTube Channel Music played in this episode The Gnossiennes are several piano compositions by the French composer Erik Satie in the late 19th century. The works are for the most part in free time (lacking time signatures or bar divisions) and highly experimental with form, rhythm and chordal structure. The form as well as the term was invented by Satie. Satie himself was for some time part of Joseph Paladan's Rosicrucian group in Paris, for which he also wrote ritual music. The pieces are performed by Reinbert de Leeuw 1) GNOSSIENNE 1 (Track starts at 9:22)

Duration:01:47:24

S10-E3 – Anthroposophy, Elementals and more-Thomas Mayer

9/10/2023
Episode Three, Season Ten of the Thoth-Hermes podcast explores facets of Higher Worlds and the Anthroposophical traditiom. Today, Rudolf meets with Thomas Mayer, Anthroposophical teacher, author and direct democracy activist. In Thomas’s words, “you will meet the people you want to meet” which is an ongoing theme in this conversation. Thomas “met” Rudolf Steiner at the age of 15, reading “How to Know Higher Worlds”; 44 years later, he is an Anthroposophical meditation teacher, with his partner Agnes Hardorp. Thomas recently published “Answering the Call of the Elementals” which is intended as a lively workbook to intentionally strengthen a practitioner’s connection to those Beings. In their discussion, Thomas and Rudolf explore the path of supersensible perceptual development. Steiner’s work incorporated and influenced many aspects of esotericism; its wide-ranging impact is felt in the breadth of the interview. Topics range from the theme of the “I”/”Ich”, to organic architecture, to the Akashic records, to shadow work and the neutralization of the binary. The term “geisteswissenschaft” (“Spiritual Science”) is referenced and defined. Thomas describes the range of viewpoint diversity even within the Goetheanum as an institution, finding both more “intellectual” (scholarly, academic) thinkers and “spiritual” experiential artists. Solitary and group egregore work are weighed, with acknowledgement of their necessary coincidence. Rudolf and Thomas both note the bolster of healthy counterbalance that individual and cooperative esoteric work can provide. Thomas recommends several foundational Steiner texts for listeners, including “The Theosophy of the Rosicrucians”. Rudolf notes that many Steiner writings are available in English, at no cost, online. Thomas enters more specifically into the ideas of the Aether plane and defines the concept of the “Elementals”. Thomas carefully notes the Anthroposophical belief that supersensible perception is available to all humans, but must be actively and personally developed. He reminds us that this is also In the context of mutual interest: that the Elementals seek human interaction as much (or more) as we seek them. This is the cover of the book we also mention in the podcast, Thomas Mayer's book on elementals, available in English from Inner Traditions (see link below) Click here for Thomas Mayer's homepage (in German, sorry...) The book page at Inner Traditions The Rudolf Steinre Archive - in English, most of his work to be found there Anthro-Wiki - an excllent resource in English and German Music played in this episode Also, on this episode, in the "interval", between the two parts of the main interview, a first short talk on a series that will appear from time to time in the next weeks and months, about the effects of sound and music in the spiritual world. Musician and singer EMERELLE, who also provides the music on this episode, speaks to Rudolf on her work and what she thinks music can do with our mind. Emerelle is a singer, musician & videographer from Austria focused on creating music that touches the soul. Ethereal sounds coming from a deep place of stillness help to reconnect with oneself. Here is what she says about herself: "I studied music pedagogy & classical singing at university but quit after 3 years to create my own music. I’ve been on an intense spiritual quest since I was 15 years old, studying various philosophies, meditation, advaita, inner work, traumahealing, sacred womanhood and more. It's always been my aim to touch & inspire people, to help them feel and reconnect with their true nature.

Duration:02:01:58

S10-E2 – Thelema in the 21st century-Marco Visconti

9/3/2023
Welcome to Episode Two of Season Ten with the Thoth-Hermes podcast. Today, Rudolf dialogues with Marco Visconti, author of “The Aleister Crowley Manual: Thelemic Magic for Modern Times” (2023), published through Watkins Press. An Italian freemason living in London, Marco openly enumerates roadblocks and supports he has encountered in his personal magical development. Up into his mid-thirties, Marco pursued several initiatory paths alongside an international musical career. Retiring from musical performance, Marco committed to depth involvement with the Ordo Templi Orientis. He also worked on staff at London’s renowned Treadwell’s Bookshop. Following the OTO’s scandals and schisms of the late 2010s, Marco describes leaving the Order on conscience. He publicly articulated a depth essay on his experience of the OTO’s dysfunction. (CLICK ANYWHERE IN THIS PARAGRAPH TO SEE MARCO'S BLOG ENTRY ABOUT THIS) During the COVID pandemic, a door opened for the founding of Marco’s present initiatory school. Rudolf and Marco examine the tensions of ethics and accountability within hierarchical initiatory organizations. Together, they highlight the responsibility of truly vetting lodge candidates. Marco directly names his experience of encountering unbalanced and destabilizing seekers in magical schools. He also references contemporary challenges around anonymity or confidentiality of membership. The theme of finding the balanced middle way permeates this conversation. While examining selectivity within groups, Marco and Rudolf delve into the question of elitism. Both speakers acknowledge magical potential as an inherent human birthright, across all class, culture, race, gender, and other mundane identities. Simultaneously, they briefly share the posit that pursuing formal initiation is not appropriate for everyone in a given lifetime. While describing Marco’s new book, they note the paradox of Crowley’s levelling articulation of Magic for All, yet his relatively scholarly writing style. While more accessible than any writing prior to his publications, the Oxbridge style and use of mainline theological terms carry potential obstacles. The discussion then turns to frank assessment of copyright debates in historical magical writings; Rudolf names parallels across many creative and performing arts content. Marco then shares briefly on his manuscript in process. Click here for Marco's Blog on Medium Marco's home page And his Facebook page Here you can find the book page at Watkins' Music played in this episode It was my guest in this episode, who used to be a full-time musician at some point in his life, who chose the music . So enjoy Marco's choice! 1) DRIFT by 3Teeth 3TEETH is a group from LA, which started in 2013 and today are one of the most famous industrial metal acts. The singer and mastermind, Alexis Mincolla, is a very close friend of Marco's. They bonded over their interest for esotericism, and in fact a lot of the themes and imagery of 3TEETH is steeped in occultism. (Track starts at 8:23) 2) THE NIGHT OF PAN by XP8 XP8 was Marco's main musical project between 2001 and 2014, when he put it on hiatus. They still release the occasional single/EP, but stopped touring a decade ago when he realised that music scene (electrogoth, industrial/ebm) was on a dying spiral compared to the spotlights of the previous decade. They always produced music for "goth raves", but "The Night Of Pan" is different, mellower than their normal output. Marco wanted to try and convey in music the idea of approaching the Abyss,

Duration:01:57:23

S10-E1 – Italic Occultism-David Pantano

8/27/2023
Welcome to Season 10 of the Thoth-Hermes Podcast, dedicated to scholarly exploration of the Western Mystery Tradition. In this opening episode, Rudolf re-engages with Italian-American author David Pantano. David provides a dizzying timeline of occult development in the landscape that has become modern Italy. In the spirit of the Golden Bough (Fraser), David’s book “The Magic Door” (2019) provides the canopy for honoring a history beginning with the European Wild West of Hesperia, embracing the varying definitions and forms of The Sacred through a culture’s dynamic development. This Italic mythological history has repeatedly and deeply connected into international occulture. The conversation ranges from the importance of authentic linguistic diversity in both exoteric and esoteric reading to the appearance of Roman-era tripartite alchemical initiatory cosmology. Ovid, Virgil and the later Dante all receive citation, in addition Compano, and Ficino. The conversation explores Giordano Bruno’s complex contributions not only to esotericism but larger practices such as the Art of Memory (in recent resurgence). We learn of the recent restoration of The Magic Door itself, with its multi-faith, multi-linguistic alchemical script… illustrating the tripartite. The repeated interaction, collusion and co-opting between Church and State are clearly acknowledged, as well as the pre-Rennaisance use of Magical Realism to influence the collective imagination towards the ideal of State. David and Rudolf take time to examine the influence of the UR Group, its writings, and ethical questions surrounding the figure of Julius Evola. David expresses his analysis that Evola, while holding controversial views, did repeatedly publicly and privately reject fascism David and Rudolph emphasize the rejection of hero worship toward any thinker, writer, or historical figure and the responsibility for sustained personal inner work as a bulwark against extremism. Pantano also invites the audience to contact him personally to further discuss or question any aspect of his writing or this interview. If you have questions for David or want to get in touch with him, go on his Faecbook page by clicking here and post him a message. In the interview, David and I mentioned a few times the new edition of the collected publications of the UR-Group. Below you find a picture of this edition. By clicking on one of the images you will be brought to the corresponding page of the publishers - Inner Tradition. Music played in this episode And once again I am happy to present the music by one of our listeners! Joshua Kirch has sent me his beautiful work already more than a year ago, but now finally after the break I can happily present it to you: Josh Kirch is a musician and composer who started with guitar, and he soon moved to classical guitar and performing in a guitar trio - really enjoying the range of repertoire and especially the Renaissance pieces available. This eventually led him to start learning the lute and cello.His compositions often mix electronic elements with classical and early music instrumentation and themes, as well as more standard rock and folk moments. And as he says himself, his training in magic and the occult has also opened new horizons in regards to his musical work. You can find him here on Soundcloud 1) EAST GATE and SOUTH GATE, FROM GATE QUARTETS (2023) (Track starts at 9:51)

Duration:01:47:47

S9-E9 – Scholarship for Hermes-Wouter J. Hanegraaff

11/13/2022
This week’s interview is with the definitively pre-eminent hermetic scholar, Wouter J. Hanegraaff. Wouter outlines his pioneering path to Department Chair of History of Hermetic Philosophy and Related Currents at the University of Amsterdam. The interview explores the 1990s milestones towards academic recognition of esoteric history and practice. While not personally a practitioner, sub rosa or otherwise, Hanegraaff warmly engages on the questions surrounding practitioner-as-scholar status. This interview is replete with the naming of Rejected Knowledge. A Calvinist minister’s son, Wouter both respectfully and assertively notes areas of understudied “history” within Hermeticism and the Early Church. Wouter notes the unnamed role of Egyptian, Persian and North African Hermetic thinkers, and calls out the difficulty of philhellenism. He describes the “narrow bottleneck of transmission” within early conversion of hermetic texts into Christo-centered language and analogy, followed by a “millenia” of basic silence before snippets of manuscripts re-emerged in the 14th Century. Wouter denotes several basic truths of Hermetic spirituality (not solely “philosophy”). The first theme is of “reverence” and gratitude for basic reality of Life granted to us. Another is the necessity of our self-liberation from worldly sources of addictive illusion; ignorance, not “sin”, being our behavioral obstacle to growth. Wouter describes the challenge of return to our clear, full consciousness as spiritual beings. He invites the possibility of conceptually unlearning vestigial Christocenteric dogma, into receptivity of the Source, the unknowable, and engagement with the Nous: “the total Mystery at the heart of reality”. How does a non-practitioner find such respect for these concepts? Perhaps some hint is found in his blog essay, Esotericism and Democracy, in which he writes: “never forget that in studying esotericism, we are ultimately studying people”. Click on the imgage to be brought to the ESSWE website, the organisation co-founded by Wouter J. Hanegraaff. The website is a great resource for a lot of interesting material! Wouter J. Hanegraaff about himself: "As long as I can remember I have been an avid reader. Books for me are travel vehicles that allow me to visit other times and places, imaginary or real, and with my publications I hope to introduce my readers to new and unfamiliar worlds and ideas. The most consistent red thread that runs through my life and work is a deep curiosity for neglected or rejected ideas, traditions, and dimensions of reality - anything that others are not looking at or are not taking seriously - and a conviction that precisely what tends to be overlooked by mainstream society and culture is most likely to expand our perspectives, stimulate our creativity, and enrich our understanding." continue to read this highly informative self-description by clicking here Wouter J Hanegraaff's homepage Wouter’s essay, Imagining the future study of religion and spirituality (2020) Wouter’s blogs "Esotericism and Democray"-a great lecture! (in English in spite of the first appearence of this German website Music played in this episode I found out - and he tells us more about it in the interview - that Wouter had initially trained as a classical musician. So today you hear music that he suggested - at least the two first tracks. The third one is the return of Master Wilbur Burchette on the podcast - a perfect mix, in my view, of Esotericism in music and Wouter's initial instrument, the guitar!

Duration:01:53:38

S9-E8 – A new Fellowship-John Michael Greer

11/6/2022
In this week’s episode of the show the one and only John Michael Greer returns for his now 4th time on the Thoth Hermes Podcast. You are probably familiar with his blog www.ecosophia.net and I’m sure you’ll be enjoying our conversation on John’s latest work, the initiation system ‘The Fellowship of the Hermetic Rose’ or FHR which at the time of airing is available online for free, so please make sure to check out the show notes for further information. This time, JMG as he’s frequently called, tells us how the passing away of one of his teachers John Gilbert marked a pivotal point in his decision to form the Fellowship. John Gilbert whose name might also be familiar to most of you was one of the significant teachers of Western Esoteric Tradition and the founder of ‘The Magickal Order of the Golden Dawn’. He initiated JMG into this order but then encountered some difficulties in his endeavour to keep up an adequate organisational structure. After John Gilbert had deceased, JMG received permission from his widow to unpack the material renaming it ‘The Fellowship of the Hermetic Rose’ and putting out the knowledge in a reorganised form into a freely downloadable end result including a series of self-initiations. Of course, it is not possible to explain JMG’s system without going back to the roots of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn established in 1887 although its founding history is more an appropriate material for a novel or a Netflix series. We will go into the lore behind the (in)famous Cipher Manuscripts and shed some light on the fragmentation that followed some ‘organisational issues’ and on the respective roles of Arthur E. Waite and Juliet Ashley resulting in JMG’s new system of initiatic practice. JMG will go on to share his very personal story how he came to the conclusion that this particular system works so well despite of his original training with the classic Golden Dawn ceremonial magic work. He will also point out the main differences between both and give us immensely valuable insights into the original intentions of The Golden Dawn and the requirements and goals of its graduates. John will also elaborate on the issue how this changed and why during the order’s tumultuous course of history and emphasize how the Outer Order’s extensive practice offers a solid foundation for every magical working that is intended (though not obligatory) in some later phase of the practitioner. We’ll dive deeply into the requirements of the Fellowship’s daily practice and what this means for individuals living in our modern times in terms of setting aside enough time and a working space for practice. We will discuss meditation, divination and protective ritualistic measures and break every part down to explain the basic idea behind them and how they serve the practitioner. John will also share some information on the degrees of the Fellowship as well as on the specific paraphernalia or tools for the work which are a little bit less money and space consuming compared to our Victorian aristocratic peers. In the end, JMG will kindly open up regarding some future book projects, one being a series of occult mystery novels covering basic training coming out in spring/summer 2023 and his next big one on spiritual healing. JMG Ecosophia page And this is the Ecosophia Dreamwidth Blog, where you find links to the Fellowship's material JMG on AMAZON Music played in this episode You know my "faible" for both classical and world music... and my ecclectic taste... So I am afraid you will have to bear with it once again in the musical choices of this week's episode!

Duration:01:51:51

S9-E7 – Rosicrucian Utopia-Robert Gordon

10/30/2022
“The Rose starts to Unfold… following the Still Voice within…” This week, Rudolf meets up with initiate Robert Gordon. An Australian by birth and upbringing, Robert holds an M.A. in Museum Studies from University College London. Robert is a contemporary forty-something, with a career, family and devotion to a centuries-old esoteric tradition. This summer, Lewis Masonic publishing released his book 21st Century Rosicrucianism. Throughout the interview, the role of truly experiential initiation is honored, emphasized and examined. Robert joined a Masonic order at 21, inspired by studies in Anthropology interacting with a lingering childhood inclination towards the mysteries. From freemasonry, he journeyed into the variations of the Rosey Cross tradition. The conversation names the participatory paradox of both the slowness and persistent purpose found in an authentic Seeker’s process: “rest in it, sit in it, be in it, act in it”. Also, the fertility of any given individual’s conceptual discoveries: that, unwittingly, seeds may be planted which ripple through time to unknown spiritual students of the future. Robert freely shares his encounters with the core three paths named in his book: personal devotional practice, social engagement, and spiritual retreat. Rosicrucianism’s historical and contemporary celebration of plurality is named, leading into the very current period of cross-fertilization available to it. The plurality extends into both the variety of Orders and the variety of individual Seekers. Rosicrucianism does center around the specifically Christian tradition, but is open to all regardless of creed. Robert and Rudolf look at the tensions and possibilities available in this context, as a vessel for Western Esotericism. In what ways can “Jesus Mi Omnia” relate mystically to a universalist, egalitarian, ecumenical intention, and how may resonance be experienced by those who encounter it? The conversation concludes around themes of discernment toward both utopian and dystopian futurism. Robert highlights the opportunity to articulate humanity’s spiritual core in the context of core cultural questions of consciousness and artificial intelligence. Receiving a B.A. (Hons) in Anthropology and an M.A. in Museum Studies, Frater Robert spent his professional career working at St Paul's Cathedral as well as for the Archbishop of Canterbury at Lambeth Palace. He then spent time with the Garden Museum, an independent museum and the final resting place of Elias Ashmole. Since 2009, he has written extensively on the intersection between technology, spirituality and modern society (see futureconscience.com). Publications include a science fiction novel (When Winter Calls) and he was the Editor of Companions of Christian Rosenkreutz published in 2020. In the summer of 2022, Lewis Masonic published his latest book 21st Century Rosicrucianism. Frater Robert currently resides in Italy where he focuses on spiritual practice and writing while continuing to contribute to a variety of esoteric orders. An aspirant and practitioner of Rosicrucianism for over 20 years, he is an active member of the Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia; the Order of the Rose and Cross; and A. E. Waite's Fellowship of the Rosy Cross This is what the website of a Rosicrucian of the 21st Century looks like (see link below) Robert Gordon's website "Future Conscience" TA highly interesting contribution by Robert Gordon to the "Pansophers"-Website Get his book at Lewis Masonic EMILY IS NOW WRITING THOSE WEBSITE EPISODE TEXTS. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! Here is what Emily tells us about herself as an introduction: ‘Emily is a fellow traveler of esoteric trans-Atlantic origin. She keeps her journey offline, unplugged, and handwritten.

Duration:01:52:52

S9-E6 – Seven’s Spheres-Marlene Seven Bremner

10/23/2022
SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THE PAINTINGS BY MARLENE SEVEN BREMNER WE ARE TALKING ABOUT DURING THE INTERVIEW This week we have a refreshing interview with Marlene Seven Bremner, an American artist and writer presently residing in New Mexico. While a student of polarity therapy, Seven initiated into Jungian alchemical teaching, which in turn flowed into her personal study and distillation of the Hermetica. This discovery process included visual art, textual exploration, and ultimately the writing of a full manuscript. Seven has recently released her first title with Inner Traditions, Hermetic Philosophy and Creative Alchemy: The Emerald Tablet, the Corpus Hermeticum, and the Journey Through the Seven Spheres. The interview is a conversation aligned to her text, appealing to both the new and seasoned students of the Hermetica. Seven’s unassuming, lunar quiet blends with solar scholarly intensity as she traverses the conversation. Subjects explored in dialogue with Rudolf range from the alchemy of oil painting; the call to expression through Logos; channeling poetry, and the creative alchemy of the ascent through the Seven Spheres. Bremner soulfully articulates the devotional-contemplative hermetic lifestyle, worldly input, and the influence of the natural elemental balance in Place. Seven makes candid acknowledgement of the importance of attaining balance between the inspiration and distraction of artistic community. Seven and Rudolf specifically explore her painting Harmonia Elementorum, which is present on her WEBSITE (click here or into the link section further down) Her website also features poetry including “Circulato” (dated May 2018), beginning: “I never learned how to dive. I only learned how to sink, in waters deep, deeper than three times my self and dark with the blood of my ancestors…” Enjoy the still waters running deep in this conversation! ABOVE: THOTH TWO PAINTINGS BY MARLE SEVEN BREMNER BELOW: HARMONIA ELEMENTORUM Seven's website The paintings we discuss in the interview can be found here Her author's page at Inner Traditions THIS WEEK'S SHOW NOTES HAVE BEEN WRITTEN BY OUR LISTENER EMILY. MANY THANKS! Here is what Emily tells us about herself as an introduction: ‘Emily is a fellow traveler of esoteric trans-Atlantic origin. She keeps her journey offline, unplugged, and handwritten. Sources of resonant personal Wonder include bioluminescence, echolocation, geometry, and paradox. Stay in mystery, my friends Music played in this episode Egypt plays an important role in Hermetic thought of course, from Thoth-Dejhuti to Hellenists etc. So Egyptian music in different forms is on the menu for today's episode. Nubian music is part of the folk tradition in both Egypt and Sudan. Today's guest, Marlene Seven Bremner, when visiting Egypt recently, was fascinated by the Nubian music, so two out of three tracks today come from this tradition. 1) TRIBAL WAR CHANT - Traditional Nubian Music recorded live in Egypt during a local folk ceremony (Track starts at 7:08) 2) ANCIENT EGYPTIAN LOVE SONG - Peter Pringle Peter Pringle (born 1945) is a Canadian musician and television personality, mainly active in the 70s and 80s. In the last two decades he has reconstructed music and musical instruments from thousands of years back, Sumerian, Ancient Hebrew, Babylonian and Egyptian. The text of this love song is from an original papyrus, he performs it in a musical style based on historical research,

Duration:01:49:02

S9-E5 – Dual, Non-Dual, Perennial-Mark Stavish

10/16/2022
Mark Stavish is back on the Thoth Hermes Podcast! And when you have someone like him to talk to, you choose subjects that need clarification, a structured mind and above all, a great knowledge of the field we all like: occultism, hermetism and the Western Traditions. Dualism and especially Non-Dualism have been terms that have found a lot of attention especially during the last 15 years or so. But how does Non-Dualism work in a hermetic and magical context, where duality seems to be the foundation of the material life. What is the difference between duality and dualism. What is the difference between a Gnostic dualism and the Hermetic approach? And why is Traditionalism or Perennialism, as it is often called (is it the same, actually?) also being sometimes under attack. In his very frank and outspoken way Mark will try to give answers to those questions, not without posing others. A highly interesting and educational talk! Mark's very interesting blog "voxhermes" The Institute for Hermetic Studies, led by Mark Stavish Its YouTube Channel Music played in this episode I have been very eclectic again this week when chosing the music... 1) AKA DUA - James Stone A beautiful interpretation of an Ancient Egyptian Hymn or Chant that many of you will know, be it as a Thelemite, a Hermeticist, Egyptologist or whatever. Here is its text and a translation (Track starts at 7:00) 2) ECCE BEATAM LUCEM FOR 40 VOICES One of the most astonishing pieces of classical choral music, and only one of two written for 40 (!) voices, which makes it sound full and harmonious in a very special way! From 16th-century Italian Renaissance, by Alessandro Striggio (Track starts at 56:22) 3) DIR DANKEN WIR DIE FREUDE From the Masonic Cantata "Dir, Herrscher des Weltalls" (To you, Ruler of the Universe) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Track starts at 1:45:17) Intro and Outro Musicespecially written and recorded for the Thoth-Hermes Podcast by Chris Roberts

Duration:01:55:07

S9-E4 – Kremmerz, before and after-David Pantano

10/9/2022
For many Giuliano Kremmerz is still quite unknown. Well, today's guest David Pantano has set out to change this, and today we want to do a step together in that direction. And the topic is worth it! Kremmerz tried to create a Hermetic School that is much less arcane that some of his contemporary occultists wanted it to be. Naples and Egypt, including Egyptian Freemasonry play a role in all that. Also, to me Kremmerz' approach sounds also partly Rosicrucian, which in the context is surprising. But there are reaons for that, we hear. And of course, he did not come out of the blue, there is a long tradition of Western Esotericism, also influenced by antiquity and its history. David has published a book on that story as well and in this talk we are going to link history to Kremmerz' time. But we will also ask: what came after? A lot to cover, and I think it became a highly interesting talk with a person who is extremely knowledgable: David Pantano! David Pantano is an independent researcher, translator, historian, and writer specializing in spirituality, metaphysics, philosophy, and the initiatic practices of West and East. Author of The Magic Door, he lives in Toronto. Music played in this episode This episode is all about Italy, or at least about the geographic area that today we call Italy. So I thought I'd bring you an - admittedly VERY eclectic - choice of music: all from the Italic Peninsula, but from completely diverse origins and time periods! 1) CIN-CI-LA, FOX DELLE LANTERNE, BOX D'AMORE what a nice Foxtrott from Italy, a beautiful blend of American influence and southern European charm! With an unnamed orchestra, recorded in ... 1926! (this is why the sound sounds old...), so from the times of Giuliano Kremmerz! (Track starts at 7:17) 2) MUSICA ROMANA - Pugnate Music as it sounded back during the Roman Empire, played by a contemporary musical research group (Track starts at 57:28) 3) TARANTELLA NAPOLETANA - Traditional You all know what a Tarantella is, right? If not, it's about time to find out! (Track starts at 1:36:42) Intro and Outro Musicespecially written and recorded for the Thoth-Hermes Podcast by Chris Roberts

Duration:01:46:14