Aliens in the Occult
Introduction:
The subject of extraterrestrial life has captivated human imagination for centuries. From ancient civilizations to modern scientific inquiry, the possibility of life beyond Earth has fueled countless theories, speculations, and even religious beliefs. However, the connection between aliens and the occult is a lesser-known aspect that intertwines the realms of esoteric knowledge, hidden wisdom, and mysterious encounters. In this article, we will explore the intriguing relationship between aliens and the occult, delving into various theories, practices, and beliefs that have emerged throughout history.
Ancient Origins and Mythologies:
The concept of beings from other worlds can be traced back to ancient mythologies and folklore. Numerous ancient civilizations, such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Mayans, depicted otherworldly beings in their artwork and stories. These beings were often associated with gods, angels, or celestial entities, carrying advanced knowledge and powers beyond human comprehension. These early accounts could be interpreted as encounters with extraterrestrial beings, and their inclusion in occult traditions can be seen as attempts to understand and communicate with these cosmic entities.
Occultism and Alien Contact:
Occult practices involve the exploration of hidden knowledge and unseen dimensions. Some occultists believe that these practices can facilitate contact with otherworldly beings, including aliens. The rituals, ceremonies, and meditative techniques employed in various occult traditions are seen as gateways to communicate with beings from different realms. It is within this context that some occultists claim to have made contact with extraterrestrial entities through channeling, astral projection, or even physical visitations.
Ancient Astronaut Theory:
The Ancient Astronaut Theory, popularized by authors such as Erich von Däniken and Zecharia Sitchin, suggests that extraterrestrial beings have visited Earth in the distant past and influenced human civilization. According to this theory, these aliens imparted advanced knowledge, technology, and cultural practices to ancient humans. In the occult community, the Ancient Astronaut Theory has gained traction as an explanation for the origins of occult knowledge and mystical practices. It is believed that these extraterrestrial visitors provided early occultists with the wisdom and teachings that form the basis of many esoteric traditions.
UFO Religions and New Age Movements:
The 20th century witnessed the rise of UFO religions and New Age movements, which blended elements of extraterrestrial contact, spirituality, and alternative beliefs. Groups such as the Aetherius Society and the Raëlian Movement advocate for the existence of alien civilizations, claiming to have received messages from extraterrestrial entities. These organizations often incorporate occult practices into their rituals, emphasizing the esoteric nature of their interactions with aliens. While these movements are often met with skepticism, they showcase the enduring connection between the occult and the belief in extraterrestrial life.
Aleister Crowley and Aiwass:
When discussing the connection between aliens and the occult, it is impossible to overlook the significant role played by Aleister Crowley, one of the most influential occultists of the 20th century. Crowley’s encounters with otherworldly entities, particularly his alleged communication with a being known as Aiwass, have contributed to the integration of extraterrestrial themes within occult practices.
In 1904, Crowley claimed to have received a series of revelations known as The Book of the Law. He attributed the transmission of this text to an entity named Aiwass, whom he described as a supernatural being from another dimension. According to Crowley’s account, Aiwass appeared to him during a ritualistic session in Cairo, Egypt. Aiwass dictated the text of The Book of the Law, which laid the foundation for Crowley’s occult system known as Thelema.
Aiwass is often depicted as an angelic or extraterrestrial being, described as having a human-like appearance but with distinct alien characteristics. Crowley considered Aiwass to be a divine messenger who provided him with profound spiritual insights and instructions for the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
The inclusion of Aiwass in Crowley’s occult teachings further blurred the line between extraterrestrial entities and occult practices. The communication with Aiwass served as a catalyst for Crowley’s esoteric work, influencing his ceremonial magic, ritual practices, and exploration of higher states of consciousness.
Aiwass and Thelema:
Within the framework of Thelema, Aiwass is considered an entity that transcends traditional concepts of time and space. This interpretation aligns with the idea of extraterrestrial beings existing beyond our limited understanding of the universe.
The Book of the Law itself contains passages that refer to cosmic principles, the cyclic nature of the universe, and the eventual emergence of a new age governed by spiritual freedom and individual will. These themes intertwine the concepts of extraterrestrial influence, occult wisdom, and humanity’s potential connection to higher realms of existence.
While opinions on Crowley and the validity of his claims vary widely, his encounters with Aiwass undeniably contributed to the fusion of extraterrestrial concepts with occult practices. The influence of Crowley’s work continues to resonate within the occult community, with Thelema serving as a source of inspiration for modern occultists, ceremonial magicians, and those exploring esoteric traditions.
Contemporary Perspectives:
In recent years, the relationship between aliens and the occult has continued to evolve. With advancements in technology and increased interest in ufology, more individuals are exploring the possibilities of extraterrestrial contact through occult means. Online communities, conferences, and books offer platforms for enthusiasts to share their experiences and theories. Some argue that the secretive nature of government agencies, conspiracy theories, and alleged cover-ups surrounding UFO sightings contribute to the merging of the occult and extraterrestrial beliefs.
Conclusion:
The connection between aliens and the occult is a complex and fascinating aspect of human fascination with the unknown. Whether viewed through ancient mythologies, occult practices, or contemporary movements, the belief in extraterrestrial life and its interaction with human consciousness has endured through the ages. While skeptics may dismiss these connections as unfounded or based on pseudoscience, the allure of exploring hidden realms and seeking contact with beings from other worlds continues to captivate the human imagination. As we venture further into the depths of the unknown, the mysteries surrounding aliens in the occult will undoubtedly persist, leaving us with more questions than answers.
