What does esotericism mean - areas of esotericism for beginners. Scientific esotericism Directions of esotericism in our time


Esoteric knowledge is secret, hidden knowledge - everything that has been collected and stored among peoples for centuries, passed on from generation to generation, lost and reappeared.

There is a well-known set of esoteric knowledge.

This may include, for example,

Kabbalistic Tree of the Sephiroth,

Tarot cards,

Egyptian, Indian, Tibetan, Chinese, Jewish ancient treatises,

Astrology, Numerology, Palmistry,

Extrasensory perception, Healing, Alchemy,

Yoga, Tantra,

Eastern martial arts,

Tai Chi, Qigong, Feng Shui, Reiki,

Voodoo magic, shamanism, and much more...

All these seemingly different directions have much in common. They are all based on a different perception of the world than what is generally accepted today. That is why, to modern man sometimes it is so difficult to understand their meaning and essence.

All this knowledge, which has come down to us in the form of theoretical concepts or practices, is based on science, which was several thousand years ahead of the modern level of development.

Today, we have only a small amount of preserved knowledge and absolutely do not have the scientific and technical base with the help of which this knowledge was obtained.

All we can do today is either to brush aside ancient knowledge, on the principle that today we are fine without it (we don’t believe in it), or try to comprehend it, explore it and, if possible, use it now.

The modern scientific worldview is based on the fact that our current civilization is the only one on Earth, and that we were preceded only by more primitive people and societies. Therefore, despite numerous archaeological finds indicating that in ancient times there were other civilizations on Earth, more developed than ours, science still adheres to the old concept. Sometimes it even reaches the point of absurdity when modern science tries to explain the impossible, just so as not to revise his own attitudes.

Thanks to the presence of esoteric knowledge, reality becomes esoteric for the esotericist - filled with hidden internal content, inaccessible to the layman. The specificity of this knowledge is determined by the dichotomy “intimate - revealed”; at the same time, what is revealed is what is hidden. This criterion draws a line between esoteric and exoteric knowledge. Esoteric knowledge comes to a person in the form of an irrational revelation from a transcendental source. Having reached the addressee, it becomes surrounded by a secret impenetrable to the layman. Initiation of this knowledge is made difficult by various filters, for example, dedication - the renunciation of judgments based on exoteric knowledge. The source of knowledge is located at the very core of knowledge, as an object of knowledge. Thus, the source of knowledge and the purposefulness of knowledge in esotericism coincide. This knowledge is turned inward and is a prism through which the world around us is viewed.

An integral property of esoteric knowledge is its soteriology, while knowledge both dictates the need for salvation and provides it. An adept who has acquired knowledge is freed from incorrect interpretations of reality; he, as it were, “awakens” from a “sleep”. Another property of this knowledge is the idea of ​​the unity and identity of different aspects of reality; the adept thinks by analogy, intuitively, with the help of intuems, which bring together planets and metals, properties and names, tastes and qualities of the deity, etc. Esoteric knowledge is always ordered; it deals with strict systems. The boundary between the esoteric and the exoteric is drawn by the esotericist or esoteric system; There is no universalism in this matter, but exoteric knowledge invariably has a strong influence on esotericism. Thus, esoteric knowledge combines commitment to mythological thinking with openness to everything new in the exoteric environment.

If you are not only a physical body, and you are not indifferent to questions immortality, freedom, if you analyze your real essence and touch spiritual world, then perhaps esotericism is for you.

Man has long thought about hidden spiritual, mystical processes, including religion, magic, yoga. There are a lot of methods of self-knowledge and self-realization and a person often gets lost in the vast world of ways to know himself. Traps lie in wait at every step, but if you are a seeker, a free, living person, you will find the right Path.

Esoterics(from Greek - internal) - an area of ​​specific views about the deep mystical essence human life. Esotericism includes teachings, concepts, and practices of comprehending secret knowledge about the nature of the human World. This is not a single belief system, but many separate schools, groups and movements, some of them very different from each other. This includes the natural healing system Reiki, bioenergy, qigong, space energy, magic, theosophy, lucid dreaming practices And projections into subtle planes and much more. A person has incredible hidden abilities that can be developed and feel confident in any situation.

The purpose of esotericism- a conscious change in a person’s personality. Esotericism offers a whole set of methods for changes that are sustainable, in contrast to the so-called “altered states of consciousness” achieved by followers of many religions or psychocults. The basis of these changes are Heightened States of Consciousness.

Esotericism is characterized by dichotomy between secret and open canonical forms, but neither external nor internal are mutually exclusive. Harmony between the inner spiritual life and the outer is possible.

In the world of esotericism thoughts, intentions, desires, is something that should be given considerable attention, since thoughts also manifest themselves on the physical plane.

Nowadays esotericism is called everything that has a spiritual aspect, and is not limited exclusively to material qualities and leads to the development of body and spirit. Esoteric practices work not only with the physical body, but also with subtle human bodies, with soul.

When a person cannot find a way out of a difficult situation, having tried many official means, he comes to esoteric teachings. And by showing perseverance, you will definitely get results.

Often methods and practices related to esoteric defy explanation and understanding, but they work! When “treating”, turning off your mental dialogue is one of the first necessary conditions. Esotericism beyond the understanding of the brain. Turn off logic, turn off the evaluation factor and just do it. Works in most cases consciousness And intention! It is consciousness that produces changes in the real world, it is the mechanism that launches the process that is aimed at "magical"ritual. There are no limits to consciousness. According to Bible, man is created in the image and likeness of God, and for God even the impossible is possible. And a person just needs to remember who he is and act in accordance with this awareness.

Changing the program of reality and gaining access to hidden capabilities becomes possible and real. The more non-standard elements in a person’s picture of the world, the more options for events, the wider the permissible boundaries of what is possible in the reality of a particular person.

Esoterics are new updated sensations. Esoteric practices can give a person those experiences and sensations that he cannot achieve in material life. When a person takes a step into esotericism, his worldview often changes, he sees the world in a new way, he begins to see eternal values. His life is changing, becoming more conscious. Harmony comes into life, both with yourself and with the world around you.

Esoterics is Development, Harmony, Healing, Awakening.

⚓ Extrasensory perception

⚓ Energy medicine (Cosmoenergetics, Bioenergetics)

Description of the directions of esotericism

  • Astrology.

This is a complex science based on ancient Vedic treatises. Astrology has existed since the beginning of time and has been passed down through the chain of disciplic succession. In order to comprehend this esoteric science, you need to be a brahmana and study it from an early age under the guidance of a spiritual teacher. The training in astrology lasted not one year, and not even five years, but more than ten years. Astrology is based on a complex science - mathematics (algebra, geometry).

To master this science well, it is not enough to know only mathematics. An astrologer must know well the structure of our universe and the entire universe. The most accurate and insightful astrology is Jyotish. The science of Jyotish is based on the most accurate Vedic texts, that is, supported by shastra.

Astrology is a science that can describe your entire life, what awaits you at any given time. With the help of astrology, a person can find out all his weaknesses and strengths, dangerous and favorable moments of life. Knowing your horoscope gives you the advantage that a person can correctly distribute his forces and avoid making serious mistakes. Also, a warned person can correct and smooth out dangerous life situations. Astrology is a science given to us by the Lord God himself for our benefit. Of course, not all life situations can be changed, but a person always has freedom of choice, and he has the right to try to change his life for the better.

Previously, ordinary people did not turn to astrologers so often. They usually used the services of an astrologer in the following situations: at the birth of a child, when choosing a wife or husband (they checked compatibility) and in difficult life situations.

If you intend to go to an astrologer and draw up your own horoscope (natal chart), then you should very carefully select the right specialist, preferably a Vedic astrologer. The prerequisite for a Vedic astrologer is that he has a spiritual master and follows his instructions.

  • Ayurveda.

Ancient science of health. With its history, going back centuries, it still has not lost its relevance, again proving its natural nature with examples of amazing healings. life-giving power. An Ayur Veda doctor does not treat the disease, but the patient. This, perhaps, is one of its main secrets: a person is considered as an integral system, inextricably linked with the surrounding world and space. Her methods are aimed not at artificially suppressing pathology, but at activating hidden reserves human body. There are no artificial or hard-to-find drugs in the treatment system; everything is given by nature itself! In this section of esotericism, you can get acquainted with the basic concepts of Ayurveda, determine which type you belong to and receive recommendations regarding your natural healing. I hope you receive maximum benefit. If you have interesting materials according to Ayurveda, then share them with us.

The oldest science on the planet about the structure of man and his health - Ayurveda, contains thousands of medicinal recipes, which contain only natural and environmentally friendly ingredients. All ingredients for the drugs are specially grown in the most environmentally friendly areas of the planet - Nepal, Tibet, and the Himalayas. These recipes are thousands of years old. Now they are available to everyone. The composition, specially adapted for the West, preserves all the miraculous nature of these drugs and serves as a supporting, strengthening and often healing factor for many diseases.

  • Veda.

Vedas are scriptures, given by the Lord God himself, for a righteous life in the material world. Vedic knowledge in past eras was transmitted orally, as people had a good memory. In our age (Kali-yuga), people began to gradually degrade (lose memory) and Vedic knowledge had to be written down on paper. Vedic knowledge covers all the basic sciences (Upaveda Shastras): Artha Shastra, Jyotish, Vastu Shastra, Ayur Veda, Gandharva Veda, Dhanur Veda and Sthapatya Veda. All these scriptures were written down in verses (shastras) in the ancient language "Sanskrit". Commentaries on many verses have been issued by saintly persons (spiritual masters) for better understanding of the sastras. Self-study Vedic scriptures will not give much result. To deeply understand the Vedic scriptures, a spiritual teacher is needed. In turn, a spiritual teacher also has a spiritual teacher. This is called the "chain of disciplic succession" or parampara.

Now the Vedas are publicly available for study. In the old days, “Vedic knowledge” was the priority of the upper castes: Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Vaishas. Kshatriyas and Vaishyas could study the sacred Vedic scriptures, but did not have the right to teach them to others. Only brahmins had the right to teach Vedic knowledge to other people.

Knowing the Vedic scriptures and following them, a person could achieve any material wealth and even the spiritual world. By performing the prescribed sacrifices, worshiping certain demigods and living a righteous life, a person easily (after the death of the physical body) reached the heavenly planets and enjoyed a long and full of pleasures life on them.

The most important Vedic verses are those which give man liberation from the bondage of the material world. Such sastras provide transcendental knowledge with the help of which one can enter Vaikuntha (spiritual world). Vaikuntha is a place where there is no anxiety or worry, there is ever-increasing happiness.

The spiritual world is much better than the heavenly planets, since from there there is no need to return to the mortal and suffering material world.

In the Vedas you can find any practical knowledge. All material knowledge is based on the Vedas. You can study the Vedas throughout your life; they are very large and difficult to understand. But thanks to the commentaries of holy people, studying the Vedas becomes an easier task.

  • Fortune telling (Tarot, Runes and others).

Fortune telling is a way to look into the past or future. A person has always been interested in his future fate and events in his life. There are a large number of methods of fortune telling: on cards, on coffee grounds, from dreams, on a candle and wax, on a ring in water, and others. Some even manage to summon spirits for fortune telling. Fortune telling has such a feature as a large error. Esoteric fortune-telling is especially inaccurate among ordinary people who do not understand the meaning of this action. More accurate fortune telling carried out by people associated with spirits, mediums, and psychics.

Fortune telling items (cards, coffee grounds, wax, fire, etc.) act as tools for communicating with spirits. A disembodied spirit can see and know more than an ordinary person. This is what fortune tellers take advantage of. Fortune telling is a certain magic ritual, allowing you to look into your future with the help of higher powers.

Modern fortune telling, located on various websites in the form of programs and scripts, and allowing fortune telling directly on the website - just for fun. Such fortune telling will not give you anything other than interesting information given by the program. So, if you have a desire to tell fortunes, then find a specialist well-established in fortune telling for this purpose.

  • Yoga.

The word "yoga" comes from the root word "yoj" (jugit). Yoga means "connection", "connection" or "liberation". Yoga is a connection with higher powers and directly with God. A true yogi always meditates on the image of God and thereby receives liberation at the end of his life. The path of yoga is very difficult. To be a yogi means to perform difficult austerities and meditate on the supreme personality of Godhead. To obtain the highest fruits of yoga (liberation), a yogi had to meditate on God for many years (100 or more years). In the present age (Kaliyuga), people rarely live to be 100 years old. And therefore, classical yoga (eight-step yoga) is not suitable for the current age, since a person simply does not have time to perform it properly and receive the benefits from its implementation. To strengthen and maintain health, of course, you can perform some elements of yoga (pranayama).

Modern (Western) yoga is simply a set of gymnastic exercises, without any special philosophy or meditation. Of course, you should not expect serious results from this type of yoga. Practicing “real” yoga is impossible in modern society. A yogi should meditate in a deserted and holy place (Himalayas, sacred rivers and places difficult to reach for most people). Modern cities are not suitable for the practice of classical yoga. The yogi’s mind must be in a “calm” state, otherwise meditation will not work. But nowadays a person experiences a lot of anxiety, and the mind of such a person will not allow him to concentrate correctly on the object of meditation. And now hardly anyone can perform the austerities that yogis used to perform.

But don’t despair, many exercises taken from the classical yoga system are good for keeping your body in good shape and getting sick less. And correct meditation and the philosophy of true yoga will help you understand the meaning of life in the human body.

  • Magic.

The magic section includes such subsections as: witchcraft, conspiracies, curses, sorcery, divination, love spells, sorcery. The concept of "magic"

means that a person with certain esoteric superpowers is capable of performing miracles with the help of various conspiracies, spells and special objects.

Sorcerers and magicians in their witchcraft often use the capabilities of hidden forces (mainly spirits).

The power of good and evil is present everywhere, even in magic. Sorcerers and magicians are usually divided into two types: good and evil (white and black). Good sorcerers help people, and evil ones harm. White magicians mainly heal people, perform rituals for well-being and help with good advice. Black magicians, on the contrary, perform rituals that harm other people.

  • Mystic.

Mysticism can be called phenomena that are inexplicable from a scientific point of view: various miracles, superpowers, clairvoyance, prophecy, psychic abilities, UFOs, teleportation, telekinesis, time travel, etc. Mysticism also manifests itself in communication with ghosts and spirits, the deja vu effect, clinical death, magic and much more.

  • Knowledge about the Great Transition.

The “Great Transition” is considered to be the beginning of the Age of Aquarius (according to astrology). The Age of Aquarius is a time of great change. The main change in this era involves the cleansing of our planet from the forces of evil and ignorance with the help of spiritual knowledge. Also, many teachings on the topic of the "Great Transition" believe that many people are not able to enter this new era, so there will be a great catastrophe on earth that will claim many lives. These can be either natural disasters (earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, hurricanes, viruses...) or man-made (nuclear war, chemical warfare, biological warfare). Only noble and holy people will be able to survive this “transition”. They will restore an ideal and prosperous society in which God's laws will be observed. These changes will also take place in nature: there will be no extreme heat or cold, excessive rain (it will rain at night and there will be sun during the day) and natural disasters. There will be a lot of harvest, there will be no weeds. There will be no need to work from morning to night for your food. In such a society, elders will be respected and the Lord God will be revered.

  • Netrad. medicine (Reiki, Qigong, Aromatherapy).

Reiki is a simple esoteric technique for healing your body with the help of energy emanating from your hands. This alternative medicine enjoys particular success in the land of the rising sun (Japan). Reiki not only treats the physical body, but also helps with mental disorders. The Reiki technique also has its own philosophy, which is aimed at the harmonious existence of a person in this world.



IN Lately This technique began to actively spread throughout the world. From my understanding, not everyone can master this technique. To do this, you must have purity of consciousness, live in goodness and have a great desire to help people. It is also necessary to practice meditation, perform austerities and read certain mantras to concentrate healing energy.

So, most likely, there are very few real Reiki masters and they are not chasing profit, but live on donations (who donates what).

Qigong- An ancient Chinese technique for controlling energy flows. This technique is used to heal and maintain human health. Qigong is also used in martial arts. There are a lot of techniques and schools in this area. Therefore, the methods of using and working with Qi energy may differ slightly from each other.

Qigong helps eliminate “energy clamps” in a person’s subtle body and restore proper circulation of energy in the subtle body, which in turn helps restore a person’s gross physical body. Qigong not only treats diseases of the physical body, but also helps well with mental disorders.

Like reiki, qigong has its own philosophy, which has a main goal: the concept of the subtle laws of the material world and the meaning of human life.

Aromatherapy- the ancient science of maintaining and restoring health with the help of various aromas. This is quite a complex branch alternative medicine, since knowledge of compatibility is required various substances and their effects on the human body. An aromatherapy master must have extensive knowledge in this area, because for each person an individual recipe must be selected, taking into account the characteristics of the psyche and the type of disease (illness, disorder) of that person.

Official medicine recognizes that many diseases of the physical body come from mental disorders, depression and constant stress.

Properly selected aromatherapy substances will help relieve stress and improve a person’s mood, and this is very important in our age, which is full of worries and anxieties. Treatment with natural aromas together with favorable soothing music helps to restore lost strength and be in good shape.

  • Numerology.

Numerology is a science of esotericism that studies the relationship of numbers with the fate and character of a person. Numerology is an ancient and complex technique for determining a person’s character and events in his life using numbers. Each number in the subtle plane has its own vibration and certain qualities characteristic only of this number.

Knowing your date of birth, a numerology master based on the characteristics of numbers can easily tell your future and describe your character.

There are two schools of numerology: Western (Pythagoras) and Eastern (Vedic).

Western numerology is based on the knowledge of the philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras.

Vedic numerology has great accuracy as it is based on the Vedic shastras and the science of jyotish (astrology).

  • Lucid dreams, Astral world.

The astral world is a world that is not visible to the human eye. The astral world has a more subtle nature and consists of ether. There are many living beings on the astral plane. For example, to get to the heavenly planets, you need to have an etheric body. Many spirits and ghosts live near us on the astral plane. Some people, by leaving the gross body (during lucid dream) can also observe the astral world. There are many descriptions of people in clinical death, and seeing their body and what is happening around. There are also various esoteric techniques for exiting the subtle (astral) body from the gross physical.

  • Psychology.

Science that works with the human psyche. Psychology is divided into many components: abnormal psychology (complex mental illnesses), clinical psychology (stress and depression), counseling psychology (children's, family...) and other types of psychology. This science was created by people to provide psychological assistance to those in need. This science is very important for modern society because in this troubled age people are developing too many mental illness. At this time, a psychologist (psychotherapist) is one of the highest paid and sought-after specialties in the West.

  • Rodnovers, Anastasians.

Rodnovers- these are people who adhere to the ancient Slavic tradition of Rus'. The Orthodox call them pagans. Adherents of this culture, after completing a probationary period, are given Old Slavonic names (Velemudr, Svyatozar, Velimir and other names) and undergo an initiation ceremony. In this tradition there is respect and worship of demigods (sun, water, air, fire). Rodnovers want to live in harmony with the surrounding nature, to live together as a large community in a benign environment (in an eco-village), where there are springs, ponds, fields and forests. The teachings of the Rodnovers have a good basis in the form of Old Slavonic writings (Veles's book, Yarilin's book and others).

Anastasians They are similar to Rodnovers in that they also respect Mother Nature and honor higher powers. Adherents of the “Anastasian teaching” also strive to live on their own land in pure natural conditions, build large estates and revive large families. The difference from the Rodnovers is that the Anastasians take as their basis the philosophy of the books “The Ringing Cedars of Russia” by a certain author Vladimir Megre.

  • The power of creativity.

Every person living in this world has a certain talent or ability. God gives every person a special gift. The only question is how to discover this ability for creativity in yourself and realize it in your life.

The problem with modern society is that it strives to force everyone into a certain thinking pattern. Most people were raised the way their parents and society wanted them to be. Improper upbringing kills a person’s inner potential and his hidden abilities. But all is not lost, and a person still has a chance to demonstrate the talent inherent in himself by higher powers.

  • Traditional religions of the world.

Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism.

All types of religions have one source - the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Almost all religions are similar in the basic concepts and laws of God. Non-violence, respect for elders, and an appeal to higher morality are preached everywhere. In each of these religions there is a set of laws, by crossing which a person commits a sin. These laws are known to every person living on our planet: do not kill, do not steal, do not commit adultery, do not covet someone else’s wife, ... Treat others the way you want to be treated. All religions emphasize the worship of God and the veneration of his servants (holy people).

If a person lives righteously and does not transgress the laws of God, then ultimately such a person is gradually cleansed and sent to the Kingdom of God.

  • Feng Shui.

This is what science tells us about correct location objects and furniture in the room, how to build a house correctly, and how to live in harmony with the surrounding nature with little effort. Feng Shui gives the concept of the subtle esoteric nature of things and the correct circulation of energies. In the Vedic scriptures this science is called Vastu Shastra. Feng Shui originates from Vastu Shastra.

Feng Shui is a science and philosophy that helps people realize that all objects around us have their own energy and strength. For example, a person will feel good (he will be healthy both physically and mentally) if the house in which he lives is built according to the basic rules of Feng Shui (Vastu Shastra). In such a house a person will be happy just by being in it.

  • Phytotherapy.

This is the science of herbal medicine. Herbal treatment is recognized official medicine and all pharmacies in the world sell all kinds of herbal infusions, infusions, decoctions and ointments on a plant basis. There are also many tea infusions sold that help with various ailments. Herbal infusions just as they were popular in the old days, they remain no less widespread and in demand to this day. With the right selection medicinal herb the disease is treated quickly and painlessly. Not only one herb is used for treatment, but also inflorescences, flowers, stems, leaves, roots, bark, pollen, juice and other components of a particular plant. Medicines made on a plant basis are very powerful, so you need to be careful not to overdo the dosage.

Be healthy and don't get sick.

  • Palmistry.

Palmistry is the science of recognizing and deciphering the concepts of lines on the palms of a person. As you know, each person has his own unique set of lines on the palms of his hands. Using these very lines, the palmistry master deciphers your future destiny and important life events. This technique is quite accurate and difficult to master. It takes a lot of practice and a good teacher to learn this science of divination (you may even need to have some mystical abilities).

  • Extrasensory perception.

Extrasensory perception is translated as “strongly feeling”, i.e. this is a person who has more developed strong senses, with the help of which he sees more than an ordinary person. Extrasensory perception includes the following concepts: intuition, work with subtle energy, superpowers.

It’s probably no secret to anyone that there are people who can predict the future and the past, can see at great distances, and treat people with the help of invisible energy. Such people are called psychics; there are many rumors and legends about them. There are even entire television programs about such people.

  • Energy medicine.

Energy medicine is a type of medicine that treats people using subtle energy invisible to the human eye. This section of esotericism includes cosmoenergy and bioenergy. Cosmoenergy is energy that comes to the aid of a person from space, and bioenergy is energy generated by material nature.

Self-knowledge (comprehension of secret knowledge about the psychological and transpersonal nature of man). Just as creative geniuses are piece goods (Mozart, Pushkin, Kant), intelligent Esotericists are also rare, because Esoteric worldview, only a few mature and gifted individuals (sometimes called Initiates, Masters, Teachers) are fully capable of mastering (due to the incredible difficulty of expanding the volume of personal Consciousness). However, these “names” themselves (so popular today) are very arbitrary - just as being included in any “Creative Union” now does not at all reflect the real Quality of creativity itself (as well as its bearer). An esotericist with a broad view of the world usually displays both healthy paradoxical judgments and sparkling humor - qualities inherent only to developed individuals.

Esotericism, since the twentieth century, is also abbreviated as “Esoterica”. Thus…

Esoterics- the doctrine of the hidden mystical essence (destiny) of the fate of objects of the World (and humans), encoded in the super-depths of the individual (and collective) unconscious; the object of her study is the processes occurring in the Universe, synchronously reflected in the depths of the human soul. The “mathematics” of Esoterics, which deciphers the secrets of an individual’s life (as well as any other process or subject), is Astrology (which connects Cosmic and psychological factors). Esoteric psychopractice, now rarely preserved within the framework of some mystical traditions, is used by a limited number of adherents and is predominantly of an applied nature. Examples of such practices include Sufism within Islam, Neidan within Taoism, and yoga within the Indian tradition. Esoteric systems (schools) are hidden in the depths of a number of (mainly Eastern) religions, fundamentally different from (often ideologized) Western Mysticism (orders and religions) in that their esoteric Teachings, for all their apparent “abstract worldview,” are much more maturely wise and vitally practical. .

Goals of esoteric systems

The goals of esoteric systems only at first glance coincide with religious or psychological ones - a conscious change in personality. Unlike the latter, esoteric “paths of liberation” offer a specific (conceptual and practical) methodology for Self-Change. The basis for such changes are Elevated States of Consciousness, which differ from the so-called “altered states of consciousness” (achieved by followers of some religions or psychocults) in that Personal changes are more sustainable, because they are motivated by a new dynamic-mystical (and not the previous static-dogmatized ) picture of the world. In a broader sense, based on the rules of rhetoric: the goal of self-transformation lies outside the zone of action of personal Self-Development (as such)... that is, “change of Personality” in Esotericism is only an intermediate means, and the goal is an objective worldview, to which an increasingly expanding (transpersonal) Consciousness.

History of esotericism

Lost in the mists of time... In addition, Esotericism does not represent one general tradition or a single system of views, but (as well as, for example, in psychology) many separate schools of thought, groups and movements, some of which are so original that they can differ very greatly from each other.

Ancient esotericism

The most famous movement of esotericism ancient world- Hermeticism, which is sometimes called Alchemy of the Spirit (to distinguish it from subsequent movements dating back to the Renaissance).

The esoteric practices of ancient Babylon provided the basis for the formation of subsequent movements in Western astrology.

Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, areas such as astrology, alchemy and magic were almost standard subjects curriculum mystically educated adept of that time.

Some religiously minded people (in accordance with the old injunctions) believe that esotericism (more precisely, occultism) is opposed to the Bible or Christianity. However, many philosophical views of esotericism coincide with the Bible or are taken from the same sources as early Christianity.

Many secret eso-currents have their own history, going back thousands of years. Most of them did not exist as continuous traditions, sometimes they were lost and reappeared. Thus, European esotericism was reformulated in the 15th century by the Rosicrucian Order and later entered into various movements such as Freemasonry.

Esotericism in the XlX-XX centuries

In the 20th century, the philosophical ideas of H. P. Blavatsky, the founder of the Theosophical Society, were reworked in their own way Ani Besant, C. W. Leadbeater, Alice Bailey, Rudolf Steiner, Peter Ouspensky. This had a significant impact on many movements and metaphysical views sub-cultures New Age and Esotericism. Rudolf Steiner, breaking with Theosophy, formulated his own philosophical system - Anthroposophy. He spoke about the disagreement between esotericists, which arose by the 20th century. Some of them wanted to open secret knowledge to the general public, while others wanted to preserve this knowledge. Knowledge in secret. Steiner himself belonged to those who wanted to discover secret knowledge. His first books, written back in the 19th century, avoided any reference to arcane topics. He saw the 20th century as the dawn of a new time, when spirituality would be an increasingly important condition for human development. (Works such as "Theosophy" And "The Secret Science"). Steiner read eso-lectures for members of the Society of Anthroposophy, members of his school and for the general public. All but the most secret of these lectures were published during his lifetime, but they were subsequently made available in accordance with Steiner's own wishes. That's why he Anthroposophy has been called "the most important secret society in the history of European esoteric culture." Another metaphysical movement of the early 20th century, which also failed to avoid a “schism” for the above reason - "4th way" system or Teachings of "Gurdjieff-Ouspensky"(more often identified with G.I. Gurdjieff). They suspect the presence of not one, but several basic versions of this Systems(and not just the “official” story of her birth). Gurdjieff(not extant) version Exercises, did not satisfy P.D. Uspensky, causing a “departure” (the latter from the former), which gave rise to other versions. Behind Official version “The 4th Way” (from G.I. Gurdjieff) is now accepting the book “P.D. Uspensky. In search of the miraculous." However, it only outlines some general average for the (early) Gurdjieff and (late) Uspensky versions (P. Ouspensky himself did not consider it correct to publish "public lectures on the System" under your own name). But, immediately after his death, a book of these lectures was published (with his initials and the title halved). This Average The (2nd basic) version greatly “combs” and culturalizes everything that the occultist George Gurdjieff actually said. At the same time, it contains elements that suggest the presence of a third, hidden version of the Teaching (obtained by P. Uspensky over 30 years of his practice and, probably, not intended for a wide circle). This version P.D. Uspensky differs even more from the 1st version Emergency, and from the later "The Way of the Cunning" ( Ida-yogi) G.I. Gurdjieff (as Osho Rajneesh and I. Kalinauskas spoke about). And although the 3rd version of the Emergency still remains unmanifested, the legend claims that P. Uspensky still managed to discover the missing fragments of the Teaching and another form Ways of self-development. In any case, dying message Peter Uspensky himself, misunderstood by some followers as a “rejection of the System,” contained a direct indication of the crisis Official doctrine and the need for its updating.

see also

Literature

  • Babai (pseudonym) Lectures and books on esotericism Lectures, books, and a forum for discussion
  • Yakunina A. O. “Esoteric philosophy” // Full course of lectures
  • Benjamin Walker Encyclopedia of Esoteric Man: The Hidden Side of the Human Entity, Routledge and Kegan Paul, London, 1977, ISBN 0-7100-8479-X
  • Benjamin Walker Man and the Beasts Within: The Encyclopedia of the Occult, the Esoteric, and the Supernatural, Stein & Day, New York, 1978, ISBN 0-8128-1900-4
  • Wouter J. Hanegraaff (ed.) in collaboration with Antoine Faivre, Roelof van den Broek & Jean-Pierre Brach, Dictionary of Gnosis and Western Esotericism, 2 vols., Brill, Leiden 2005.
  • Aries: Journal for the Study of Western Esotericism, Brill, Leiden, since 2001.
  • Aries Book Series: Texts and Studies in Western Esotericism, Brill, Leiden, since 2006.
  • Antoine Faivre, Access to Western Esotericism, SUNY Press, Albany 1994.
  • Kocku von Stuckrad, Western Esotericism: A Brief History of Secret Knowledge, Equinox, London/Oakville 2005.
  • Wouter J. Hanegraaff, "The Study of Western Esotericism: New Approaches to Christianity and Secular Culture", in: Peter Antes, Armin W. Geertz & Randi R. Warne, New Approaches to the Study of Religion, vol. I: Regional, Critical, and Historical Approaches, Walter de Gruyter, Berlin / New York 2004.

Notes

Links

  • Siberian Skeptical Paranormality Observer
  • "Esoterics. Personal pages" by Kravchuk Yu. A. and other authors
  • “Alternative (secret) knowledge” Yu. K. Bratchikov-Barbarovich, Ph.D. n.
  • “The Dahl School” Posthumous activities at the Abrenocenter
  • Personality development and self-knowledge - Blog of writer I. Satorin
  • “Big esoteric reference book” The site contains a dictionary of Doctor of Medical Sciences. Stepanova A. M. containing more than 5500 articles
  • Lectures and books by Babai The site presents lectures and books by the author, writing under the pseudonym Babai; There is also a forum for discussing what you have read
  • Conceptual philosophical-esoteric heavy music. COLLIDER

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Synonyms:
  • Paralympic Games
  • Turksib (disambiguation)

See what “Esoterics” is in other dictionaries:

    Esoterics- (English esoterica, from Greek esotericos internal) 1) a set of concepts, teachings, beliefs, the main meaning of which is hidden from ordinary people (laymen, simpletons) and is accessible only to initiates who have gone through certain rituals and have... ... Political science. Dictionary.

    ESOTERICS- [German] Esoteric Dictionary foreign words Russian language

    esoterics- noun, number of synonyms: 2 schizoteric (1) esoteric (1) ASIS Dictionary of Synonyms. V.N. Trishin. 2013… Synonym dictionary

    esoterics- and, f. ésotérique adj. Closed to the uninitiated. The ideology of modern globalism inevitably includes some hidden subtext, some esotericism. Moscow 2000 1 139. It’s time for a general passion for esotericism and evil spirits. Neva 2003 7 29 … Historical Dictionary of Gallicisms of the Russian Language

Esoterics for beginners

Esoterics

Esotericism is secret knowledge that is not accessible to people ignorant of magic, mysticism, and the occult. At least that's what they used to be. Knowledge and skills that not everyone could have. Only the chosen ones.

There are people who are ardent skeptics. Or those who believe in God. There is a person who doesn’t care, he doesn’t argue, he doesn’t prove. He has no time - he works, improves himself. What is esotericism? Religion? Faith in God? In people? To the supermind? Or maybe into yourself? Many people don’t think about such things, and when they think about it, they don’t find answers to their questions. After reading various feeds on the Internet, you can only get scattered data and a weak idea of ​​what esotericism is. Only by deciding to change yourself and your life for the better, by gathering your strength and taking a course of video seminars designed by specialists so that everything falls into place, can you achieve success.

The concept of esotericism and why you shouldn’t be afraid of it
Esotericism is a large section of human life that helps one find oneself through knowledge of the world. Its study is not given to everyone. This is not just religion or science. This is the same thread that connects all aspects of the ordinary world and the realm of unknown magic.

The first such secret society was the Pythagorean school. It was divided into ordinary and esoteric. Her secret part took an oath of non-disclosure of what members of the society were taught. And what knowledge they received there is still unknown to humanity. Now esotericism is not hidden from everyone. There is accessible information presented in video seminars or master classes.

Why are people afraid or unwilling to touch the unknown and explore unexplored areas of their own lives? The main criteria of human reluctance are considered:

1. Many people don’t want to study new religion. In fact, esotericism is not only religion, although it is closely related to it. It helps you discover yourself and your own hidden potential. Yes, there is religion here - faith in yourself and the world around you.
2. Lack of belief in the possibility of changing your life. The thought is material. And wishes are always fulfilled. Everything is possible. You just have to believe and walk the path to knowledge.
3. Reluctance to gain new knowledge, since there is already success in your personal life. Esotericism makes it possible to gain success not only in one area. It allows you to balance all the criteria that are important. Achieve what you want in every possible way.
4. Fearful attitude towards the concept of magic. It is worth noting that the unknown is not only magical. It's just unfamiliar. After completing the seminar, it becomes clear that what seems incredible and impossible is often considered magical.
5. Lack of free time. Naturally, it takes time to complete the training. But in the end, the hours spent pay off. Life balances out, everything falls into place and everything happens in its own moment.

An already established branch, science, like psychology, has long taken into account esoteric opinion. He resorts to her methods. Favors the practice of secret knowledge.

What does esoteric knowledge give?

Why is it believed that esoteric knowledge is not given to everyone? Only a select few? Because not everyone is ready to say goodbye to the old world, three-dimensional space, or the feeling of the precarious stability of their life. Each person is the architect of his own happiness. Those who understand this strive for the best. To transform yourself. From the inside. Starting with thoughts. And thoughts are what happens to us.

Esoteric practices give people not only knowledge. They help you feel the surrounding space. Start thinking differently than before. Wake up one day and realize what is happening. What you need to do to succeed in your desired industries. Understand that the world is not three-dimensional. It is completely limitless. Consciousness is omnipotent.

Why does a person come to esotericism?

Different roads can lead to one or another knowledge. Events, people, chance? In any case, esotericism appears in a person’s life when it is needed. The reasons may be different:
1. Search for new, unprecedented sensations. When it becomes boring, the world loses its attractiveness, those around you do not bring the same joy. Esotericism will help you look at everything in a different light, see something new and believe in a miracle.
2. Search for a treatment method. When traditional medicine is powerless. When the pills didn't help. And we are talking not only about habitual illnesses, but also about constant depression, about the disease of life itself, when, no matter how hard a person tries, he cannot achieve his goals. The man turns in desperation. And esotericism, magic, rituals help to heal.

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