What is New Age Occultism Comprised Of?

The term 'New Age Occultism' refers to a broad range of beliefs and practices that have evolved over recent decades. Rooted in spiritual and philosophical traditions, this movement encompasses a variety of practices, beliefs, and teachings. Let's delve deeper into the core components that make up New Age Occultism.

A Definition of Occultism

According to the Bible, specifically John 16:12-13, 'The Spirit of truth will guide you into all the truth, for God will glorify me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you.' The occult, derived from the Latin word 'occultus,' meaning to hide or conceal, is a collection of mysterious and secret knowledge that can be both benign and malevolent, depending on how it is utilized. This body of knowledge includes the exploration of life's mysteries, the New Age Movement, Theosophy, reincarnation, karma, psychic phenomena (ESP), astral travel, near-death experiences, and encounters with UFOs and extraterrestrial beings. Understand World Events

The New Age Movement is not a static entity but rather a dynamic web of interconnected phenomena that include political upheavals, social conflicts, environmental concerns, scientific discoveries, and religious movements. The Internet has played a pivotal role in the rapid spread and exchange of information, leading many to form their opinions and beliefs based on online sources, often without due diligence in verifying the authenticity of such information. This has resulted in a plethora of misinformation and disinformation that permeates various forms of media, including films, television series, and even video games.

New Age Occultism and Its Origins

New Age Occultism is a fusion of various esoteric traditions, including Theosophy, Western Gnosis, Wicca, Druidism, ritual magic, and Hermeticism. These elements form a pseudo-science, pseudo-religion, and pseudo-philosophy that is often based on a mishmash of beliefs and practices. The rapid growth of the Internet has played a significant role in the dissemination and popularization of these ideas, leading many to adopt them without critical evaluation. Derogatory Labeling: The term 'New Age' has been criticized and labeled as a 'well-deserved derogatory term' by serious students of the occult, attributing it to the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation online. This movement has often been seen as a blend of genuine spiritual exploration and exploitation, leading to a lack of authenticity in many of its pursuits.

Components of New Age Occultism

Books and Teaching: New Age Occultism is a participatory and evolving field. Many of its teachings and practices are documented in books and written by scholars and spiritual practitioners. These books often provide commentary and modern interpretations of older texts, reflecting the changing language and cultural context. The essence of these teachings is to preserve the underlying truths while adapting them to contemporary understanding. Language and Expression: Language and symbolism in spiritual practices have evolved over time. Old concepts may lose their meaning due to changes in language and artifacts, but the core truths remain. New age occultism seeks to modernize these teachings while ensuring that the original meanings are not lost. This approach allows for a dynamic and evolving interpretation of ancient wisdom, fostering a more inclusive and open-minded approach to spiritual inquiry. Student and Teacher Dynamics: The practice of New Age Occultism is as much about the students as it is about the teachers. Students often engage with teachers and texts, contributing to a rich and evolving understanding of these teachings. This collaborative approach ensures that the practice remains dynamic and relevant, allowing for personal growth and spiritual development. Living Truth and Breaking Dogma: Ideals and truth are not stagnant. The essence of New Age Occultism is to embrace change and modernization while preserving the core truths. Dogma, when it becomes rigid, can stifle growth and innovation. Therefore, there is a continuous effort to break through dogma and return to a living, dynamic truth. This approach helps to restore the relevance and applicability of ancient teachings in modern life.

Conclusion

New Age Occultism is a diverse and evolving field that draws from various spiritual and philosophical traditions. While it has faced critics and skepticism, it remains a vibrant and dynamic movement that continues to influence and shape our understanding of the esoteric and spiritual world. Whether you are a practitioner, student, or merely curious, exploring the component parts of New Age Occultism can provide a deeper understanding of this fascinating and complex field.