The Interplay of Psychology and the Occult: Unraveling the Meaning of Life

Throughout human history, the quest to understand the meaning of life has been relentless. From ancient philosophers to modern psychologists, and from priests to occult practitioners, everyone has tried to grasp this elusive concept. The interweaving of psychology and the occult offers a unique perspective, exploring both the tangible and intangible facets of human existence.

The Psychological Perspective: Existential Thoughts

From a psychological standpoint, the meaning of life is often understood through the lens of existentialism. This perspective posits that humans must forge their own sense of meaning and purpose in a seemingly indifferent universe. Notable figures like Viktor Frankl argued that the quest for meaning is the primary driving force in humans. His experiences in concentration camps during World War II led him to develop logotherapy, which emphasizes the importance of finding purpose.

But while existentialist thought emphasizes creating individual meaning, other psychological theories, such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, suggest that humans seek to fulfill basic physiological and safety needs before they can explore more abstract pursuits like understanding one’s purpose in life.

The Occult Perspective: Beyond the Mundane

Occultism, often misunderstood, is a broad field that delves into the esoteric, hidden, or less understood aspects of the universe. From astrology to tarot, and alchemy to mysticism, these practices offer insights into the deeper realms of existence. For many, the occult offers a pathway to discovering life’s meaning.

The Hermetic axiom “As above, so below; as below, so above” exemplifies this view. This principle suggests that the microcosm (individual) reflects the macrocosm (universe), and understanding one can lead to insights about the other. By this logic, delving into the mysteries of the self can illuminate the mysteries of the universe, and vice versa.

Merging the Two: A Holistic View

When psychology and occultism are viewed in tandem, they offer a holistic perspective on life’s meaning. While psychology encourages introspection and understanding the self within the framework of our environment, the occult broadens the horizon, urging seekers to look beyond the physical realm.

For instance, Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist, was deeply influenced by both disciplines. He integrated concepts from Eastern and Western mysticism with psychoanalysis. Jung’s idea of synchronicity (meaningful coincidences) and the collective unconscious are testaments to his belief in a reality beyond mere cause and effect.

Conclusion: A Personal Journey

Both psychology and the occult emphasize the importance of the individual’s journey in discovering life’s meaning. While the paths may differ – with one focusing on introspective self-analysis and the other on esoteric knowledge – the destination remains the same: understanding our place in the vast expanse of existence.

It’s worth noting that the meaning of life is deeply personal and subjective. While academic disciplines and esoteric traditions can offer guidance and frameworks, the journey to discover meaning is uniquely individual. As seekers, whether through therapy, meditation, tarot readings, or philosophical ponderings, we continuously shape and reshape our understanding of life’s purpose. The intersection of psychology and the occult reminds us that there are many roads to enlightenment, and each person must find the one that resonates with their soul.