ESOTERICA
Dr. Justin Sledge explores the arcane in history, philosophy, and religion, covering topics such as alchemy, magic, Kabbalah, mysticism, hermetic philosophy, theosophy, and the occult using academic scholarship. The podcast also offers a study guide, rare occult books, and merchandise for enthusiasts.
Episodes
Ancient Angel Magic - Sefer HaRazim - The Book of Secrets - Jewish Magic
The Sefer HaRazim ( Book of Secrets / Mysteries) is an ancient Jewish book of angel magic dating to the 3rd or 4th century CE. It was discovered in the Cairo Genizah in the 1960's in fragments and was edited together over the course of three years by Mordecai Margalioth. In the text we find descriptions of the seven heavens, angelic military formations, and magical spells corresponding to the v
Celebrating 5,000 Subscribers + Channel News + Winter Seminar and Summer Class Patreon Goals !
My sincere thanks to all the subscribers to the channel and especially to our patrons. We hit my 1 year goals for the channel in the first six months - I am humbled and blown away. I had no idea starting this channel it would be noticed at all - Thanks so much.Uploaded 23-09-20Head over to Patreon to support the new goals for the channel! Same content (hopefully better!) will continue with new
Esoterica Channel Promo
I'm Dr. Justin Sledge and welcome to Esoterica where we explore the arcane side of history, philosophy and religion. Support Esoterica: https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelWhat is that arcane side? We focus on concepts in what can broadly be called esotericism including: magic, mysticism, alchemy, hermetic philosophy, theosophy, gnosticism, and more
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What are the Mayan Mysteries of the Oldest American Manuscript?
900 years ago, a set of Mayan scribes composed what is now the oldest American book. But it remains mysterious. On its pages various deities seem to menace, capture and behead victims, attack sacred temples and threaten the world order all on specific dates in the religious 260 days Mayan Calendar. What scholars have revealed is a complex astrological almanac detailing specific dates in the fou
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 7b of 15 - The Map is Not Territory
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 16-09-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
Magic and Disease - Thinking about the history of magic in the time of COVID-19
Human beings have fought disease since the dawn of history employing a wide range of tools especially including magic. This episode of Esoterica is a brief tour of some of the magical tools, spells, charms, and amulets magician-doctors have used in their fight against illness through the ages. We begin at the dawn of civilization in ancient Nippur and travel through the times of the Greco-Egypti
The Great Beast and The Green Fairy: Aleister Crowley on Absinthe and New Orleans by@Atun-Shei Films
In 1918 Aleister Crowley found himself enjoying a few glasses of then illegal Absinthe in the French Quarter of New Orleans. While he waited for a friend he penned an extraordinary essay reflecting on Absinthe, the Occult, the dangers of the prohibitionist and the denizens of the Old Absinthe House still at the corner of Bourbon and Bienville. @AtunSheiFilms and I co-wrote this piece reflecting
Medieval Magic - Scholastic Analysis of Magic and Necromancy in the Middle Ages
Scholasticism was the greatest intellectual movement of the Middle Ages. In this episode of Esoterica we explore the attitudes of medieval philosophers, theologians and scientists concerning magic. From Augustine where magic is a demonic deception to the rise of natural magic and medieval necromancy we will see that just beneath the surface there is a great deal of subtlety among these thinkers.
Who was Belial, the Demon?
The demon Belial seems to have emerged from an obscure force of nature to then become the leader of the Apocalyptic forces of Evil in the Dead Sea Scrolls. And, while only mentioned only once in the New Testament, Belial has become an important evil spirit in both contemporary Goetic magic and Popular Culture alike. But, what are the origins of Belial, a demon that once sat at the apex of the di
Kabbalah and Zohar - Advice and Tips for Starting to Study the Zohar - the core text of the Kabbalah
I was recently asked about tips for how to start studying the Zohar, the core text in the development of the Jewish Mystical tradition or Kabbalah. I've been study this incredibly challenging text from both religious and academic perspectives for years and here are some tips and advice for anyone - Jewish, non-Jewish, academic, secular, occultist, or just fan of literature - for starting to study
Hand-Crafted Lilith Incantation Bowls Available - Limited Holiday Supply
Aramaic Incantations Bowls were an ancient magical technology for warding off the power of demons, especially Lilith, and malevolent sorcery. Numberings in the thousands, these bowls represent a now lost anti-demonic magical tradition. Esoterica has resurrected this practice in the form of a beautiful objet d'art: a hand-made, contemporary bowl featuring a traditional Lilith image and Aramaic in
What is the Ring and Seal of Solomon - The Key to Magic?
Solomon became universally recognized as a power sorcerer by the turn of the common era. But, where did he get his power? Many legends have grown up around the Ring and Seal of Solomon but what do our earliest sources reveal about this legendary magical ring? From books of magic, pilgrims' tales, Islamic lore and medieval necromancy let's explore the Ring and Seal of Solomon!Uploaded 19-09-25Con
Dead Sea Scrolls : Encoded Cryptic Astrological Calendar and Copper Treasure Scrolls
The Dead Sea Scrolls are one of the most spectacular and important archaeological finds of all time. While the Biblical, Non-Canonical and Sectarian texts are more or less well known there remains many esoteric texts have also surfaced. In this episode of Esoterica we explore the enciphered calendar texts traceable to the Book of Enoch, the oldest astrological texts in Judaism, divination by th
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 11 of 15 - Qualifications and Praxes of the Merkavah
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 14-10-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
The Origins of Dracula - How Printing Made a Monster
How did Dracula become...Dracula? The grim tales of Vlad III the Impaler, Voivode of Wallachia, are infamous. Touted as a bloodthirsty tyrant and a pious defender of Christendom, much of our knowledge of Dracula's stems from a now lost 1463 anonymous German Pamphlet. Reprinted many times, including woodcuts of Vlad dining among his impaled and mutilated victims, these early texts detail the "fr
Babylonian Magic - The Maqlu Ritual - Invoking the Gods to Destroy Evil Magic
The Maqlu ritual is an ancient Mesoptoamian ritual invoking the Shamash, the god of the sun and justice, the destroy those that work evil magic and to unbind that sorcery. This ancient, 3000 year old ritual, is among the most complex forms of counter-magic known in the world. Join me as I explore this fascinating magical ritual!Uploaded 29-01-21Recommended Reading:Abusch - The Witchcraft Series
Winter Seminar - Philosophical Foundations of the Corpus Hermeticum + Celebrating 10K Subscribers!
Just a short video celebrating 10 subscribers and announcing the topic of the winter seminar - The Philosophical Foundations of the Corpus Hermeticum. Thanks to everyone who supports the channel - I'm so happy to have reached 10k in only 8 months! Thanks especially to the patrons of the channel.Uploaded 02-12-20Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 7a of 15 - The Map is Not Territory
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 09-09-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
Gnosticism - The Apocryphon of John - The Fall of Sophia and Origins of the Demiurge Ialdabaoth
Gnosticism has produced some of the richest and most difficult spiritual texts of the ancient world. With the discovery of the Nag Hammadi library one is confronted with numerous, often obscure and difficult texts - where to begin? This episode of Esoterica argues that the best first text is the Apocryphon / Secret Writing of John, a text found two recensions (long and short) in four manuscripts
Does ESOTERICA rely on AI?
Laying out my position on the use of AI - especially generative AI - here at Esoterica.Consider Supporting Esoterica!Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelMerch - https://www.youtube.com/@TheEsotericaChannel/storeNew to Studying Esotericism? Check out my Reading Guide here - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1caKNlW7sogEF7lAeYNbOQF9pt5O5b70yAXa-icUJO3o/edit?usp=sharingRare Occult Book
What is the Dybbuk ? Spirit Possession and Exorcism in the Kabbalah
The Kabbalah changed a great deal in Judaism including the conception of possession and exorcism. This episode of Esoterica explores the development of these concepts in rabbinical Judaism and the rise of Kabbalah, especially Lurianic Kabbalah in the 16th century. Here we discuss the idea of the Dybbuk - the evil dead returned to possess the living - but also the idea of Ibbur or beneficent spi
Necromancy and Magic - The Munich Necromancer's Manual - CLM 849 - Actual Historical Grimoire of Sorcery
The first in a series here at Esoterica exploring books of magic or grimoires. This episode takes a look at the Munich Necromancer's Manual: the spells inside (summoning a castle, a 'love' spell and a spell to find buried treasure), the author and their historical context, and more books are medieval magic.Support Esoterica on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelRecommended Readings
Win a 1300 Year Old Incantation Bowl Fragment - Novel Occult Book Catalog!
Win an authentic piece of magical history: a 1300 year old Incantation Bowl Fragment and learn about our new antiquarian occult book catalog!Check out the catalog here: https://www.esotericaoccultbooks.com/
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Greek Roman Egyptian Magic - Greek Magical Papyri - Books of Magic
We explore the earliest collection of magical texts in the ancient world - The Greek Magical Papyri (PGM) and the Egyptian Demotic spells. The PGM is the greatest collection of ancient magic. Written on papyrus these collections of spells, incantations, evocations, represent the rich cross-pollination between various cultures, religious systems, and forms of magic and divination. From Egyptian,
Magic in Theory - The Stellar Ray Theory of Al-Kindi
This episode is the first in a series focusing on theories of magic. We begin with one of the most popular medieval theories: the stellar rays of Al-Kindi. Al-Kindi, a 9th century Islamicate philosopher, who argued that the stars emits rays which trickle down to the sub-lunar world where they qualify matter. Further, all entities emit rays. Certain occult or hidden rays can be manipulated by
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 9 of 15 - The Myth-Scape of the Hekhalot
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 30-09-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 15 of 15 - The Twilight of the Merkavah
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 21-11-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
The Three Books of Occult Philosophy - Cornelius Agrippa - Renaissance Hermeticism Cabala and Magic
Cornelius Agrippa's 1533 The Three Books of Occult Philosophy is, perhaps, the most famous magical tome in western history. In it, he describes the process by which the magus may return to their prelapsarian, semi-divine state through the process of a reformed natural, celestial and ceremonial magic. Neither a textbook nor a summa, this work is often more celebrated or maligned than actually und
Frankenstein and the Occult - How Victor Made the Monster
One of the outstanding mysteries of Frankenstein is just how did Victor bring the Monster to life? We are given some clues that he had long studied famed authors of the Occult - Albertus Magnus, Cornelius Agrippa and Paracelsus - so what might we learn about making and animating monsters and the dead from these authors? From Necromancy, animating corpses with demons, the Kabbalistic Golem and the
How I just got fired from Academia (and why that might matter to you)
So, my last teaching gig in the University was permanently canceled - What does this tell us about academia and what impact does that have for Esoterica?Uploaded 17-07-25Support Esoterica - https://www.patreon.com/c/esotericachannelCheck out my upcoming Merkavah Class!Class Details - https://youtu.be/J8QE5Fsse1A?si=nZ3_gI-_61YL0CE6Course Syllabus: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1URUIb_AkZGM3hX
How did Magical Mirrors work? The Necromantic Mirror of Floron
Enchanted Mirrors are one of the quintessential objects in the history of magic. But, how were historical mirrors of magic made? What did they do? And, how did they work? Let's explore the history of magical mirrors by turning to perhaps the most famous such mirror of the Middle Ages: The Necromantic Mirror of Floron. Here we find a mirror that will summon a spirit that will answer questions ab
Gnosticism - Thunder Perfect Mind - Divine Feminine - Gender, Paradox and Violence
One of the most enigmatic and alluring text in the Nag Hammadi Library of Gnostic texts is the famed hymn-poem Thunder: Perfect Mind. This episode explores the origins, structure, parallels with an eye to Thunder's treatment of gender, language and colonialism. We also explore to what degree we can call Thunder 'gnostic' at all - why did this document survive in the Nag Hammadi library at all?U
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 10 of 15 - Dangers and Ordeals
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 08-10-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
The Evolution of Ghosts
Ghosts have a history. Despite seeming like a timeless aspect of religion, metaphysics and culture, ghosts have evolved through time. From polemics with 'pagan' Romans, encounters with Germanic mythology and combat with Enlightenment Rationalism, Ghosts have greatly transformed through time. Let's explore the evolution of the western Ghost.Uploaded 10-10-25Consider Supporting Esoterica!Patreon
Abramelin - Introduction to the Magical Text and the Ritual made famous by Aleister Crowley
The Book of Abramelin purports to be a text of 15th century magic with a wide range of effects though, most importantly in modern occultism, communication with one's Holy Guardian Angel. The famous famous undertaking of these rituals was performed by Aleister Crowley at House Boleskine around the dawn of the 20th century. In this episode of Esoterica, we explore this fascinating texts, its ritua
Gospel of Thomas, Gnostic Egypt and Pistis Sophia w/ Dr. M David Litwa
Conversation with Dr. M David Litwa on his recent work on the Gospel of Thomas, his upcoming trip to Egypt and why the Pistis Sophia doesn't get studied.Uploaded 08-08-25Dr. Litwa's Youtube Channel - @m.davidlitwa Introduction to the Gospel of Thomas - https://amzn.to/41wMKZhEgypt Trip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlF3lW3M1fEItinerary - https://travefy.com/trip/6yw9rqqtdjzsqz2afmhbc7ckkb53msq
The Egyptian Book of Thoth - Real Ancient Egyptian Initiation Ritual - Hermetic Philosophy
Thoth was the ancient Egyptian god of wisdom, magic and writing and the legendary revealer of the Hermetic philosophy in the form of Hermes Trismegistus. Preserved in around 30 Demotic fragments is the ritual by which a priest-scribe became initiated into the service of Thoth to serve in the House of Life or an Egyptian Temple. In this episode of Esoterica, we explore this complex and ancient te
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 12 of 15 - Goals of the Merkavah Mysticism
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 10-11-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 4 of 15 - The Visions of Paul
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 19-08-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
What is Theurgy? Proclus and Pagan Liberation
Precious little on pagan theories of salvation survive from the ancient world. However, Proclus' On the Hieratic Art According to the Greeks is an amazingly brief and yet profound introduction to salvation through Theurgy or God-Doing. In this text, we learn of the four-stage process by which one achieves magical powers and immortalization through various forms of theurgy. From recognizing the w
Lilith Incantation Bowls - 56 Available
I've been working with ceramic artist Dee Dee Mangum to recreate Lilith Incantation Bowls - learn more about her work and process in this conversation.Uploaded 10-09-25Incantations Bowls Available - https://www.esotericaoccultbooks.com/shop/p/handcraft-aramaic-incantation-bowl-limited-editionLearn more about historical Incantation Bowls - https://youtu.be/wyI9m50ODB4?si=0x5tFTPMz_zrEi1kGet the Ara
Boleskine House - From Aleister Crowley to the Future - Boleskine House Foundation Interview
Boleskine House is most famous as the site of Aleister Crowley's attempt of the Abramelin Operation. Of course, there's so much more to the site. As part of of our exploration of the Abramelin Operation I interview Keith Reddy and Elin Morgan of the Boleskine House Foundation about the history, destruction, renovation and future of this grand Scottish home.Uploaded 22-01-21Support Boleskine Hous
Corpus Hermeticum II - Hermetic Fragments and Testimonies - From Nag Hammadi to the Kore Kosmou
In this episode of Esoterica we are going to introduce and explore the Hermetic Writings that survive outside the classic Greek tractates and the Latin Asclepius. Here we discover a staggering diversity of texts and traditions all of which give us a better glimpse onto the the spiritual philosophy of Hermeticism. In this episode we explore the Three Hermetic tracts in the Nag Hammadi Library, th
Medieval Mystical Women - The Beguines - Hadewijch Mechthild of Magdeburg and Marguerite Porete
The typical view of the middle ages is one of cultural, intellectual and religious stagnation. This is hardly the truth. The European Middle ages were marked by innovations at almost every cultural register including spirituality. This episode explores the radical and probing mystical spirituality of the Beguines, a lay culture of women who worked in the skilled trades, publicly preached, aided
How to Explore the Occult and Western Esotericism
Studying Western Esotericism can be a daunting task. How to even begin? I prepared a self-study guide for getting access to the most reliable and accessible literature on topics in Esotericism up to around 1650, updated for 2026. In this episode I want to walk you through my methodology, the study guide itself and how you can use it to bring yourself up to date on the scholarship. Let's build
Ancient Christian Magic - Protection, Exorcism, and Love Magic from Ancient Coptic Texts
While Christianity is often thought of as hostile to any form of magical practice, history reveals that magic has been practiced through all of Christian history. In this episode of Esoterica we explore the earliest Christian magic preserved in Greek and Coptic sources from late-classical Egypt. Here we find a wide range of magical practices from protection, exorcisms, love magic, curses - even
Magic in Ancient Israel and the Hebrew Bible - Divination Necromancy Amulets and the Witch of Endor
Ancient Israel is one of the most studied cultures of the ancient world. Though, one understudied aspect of their society was the practice of magic. This episode of Esoteric explores what little archaeological and literary evidence remains for the study of ancient Israelite magic. Here we will look at silver amulets found in Jerusalem's tombs and dive into the Hebrew Bible to try to understand
Magical Symbols - History of Sigils Angelic Alphabets and Symbols of Power
This video traces the origin and development of magical symbols from late-classical Egypt through their development into Western European Magic. These characters likely began as debased hieroglyphics and would eventually develop into unique symbols of power, the seals and sigils in angelic and demonic mage, and form the basis for angelic script / alphabets. This video is a part of a series on ma
The Women Behind Enochian Magic w/@drangelapuca
John Dee began to communicate with angels in the 1580s to discover the most fundamental truths of reality. Those angels would reveal novel magical systems, the language God spoke creation into being, techniques for metaphysical espionage, at least a couple detours for treasure hunting, before reaching a scandalous climax in the wife-swapping incident which effectively marks the end of the Angelic
Five Myths Surrounding Alchemy
Alchemy is one of the most misrepresented and poorly understood aspects of Western Esotericism. This video takes a look at five misconceptions from both the scientific dismissal of alchemy to the purely spiritual/psychological interpretation of its processes and symbolism.Support Esoterica: https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelRecommended Reading:Linden, Stanton J. (ed.) The Alchemy Reader: Fr
Forbidden Manuals of Exorcism Magic
What is the relationship of Exorcism to Necromancy? Prior to 1614 the Catholic Church had no standard manuals or rituals for Exorcism. In this vacuum, numerous exorcism manuals were written, many veering directly into forbidden sorcery. Let's explore these forbidden books of Exorcism Magic! Uploaded 04-07-25Consider Supporting Esoterica!Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelOne Time D
Re-Creating a 400 year old Alchemy Potion from Wormwood...then Trying it!
It's often forgotten that Alchemy was central for revolutions in Medicine, especially pharmacology. Following the theories of Paracelsus, I'm re-creating a 400 year old curative potion from Wormwood. How was alchemical medicine made? How did they think it worked? And, what does it taste like and what does it do? Let's re-create some authentic alchemy medicine from 400 years ago!Uploaded 26-09-2
Mysticism vs Satan - Hildegard of Bingen's Sacred Exorcism
Can Mysticism Defeat Satan? In 1196 the mystic Hildegard of Bingen was called to help cure a noble woman of demonic possession. However, it became clear that only a divine revelation could combat these demonic forces. And, in a mystical vision, Hildegard received a powerful ritual of exorcism through which She and God alone could contend with the forces of Satan. This Mystical Exorcism is one of
What is the Hermetic God and Demiurge?
The concept of the Demiurge is often associated with the demonic cosmos creator of the Gnostics. But, what do we know about the ancient Hermetic Demiurge? Emerging from the world of Greco-Egyptian religion and philosophy, Hermeticism was a powerfully optimistic means of reuniting one's high consciousness (Nous) with the Divine Parental Light after exorcising one's body of fatalistic daimonic infe
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 5 of 15 - The Danger of Reading
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 26-08-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 13 of 15 - The Sar Torah and Sh’iur Komah
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 12-11-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
The Devil Rides Out - The Devil's Bride - Occult Film Review and Analysis
The Devil Rides Out or the The Devil's Bride as it was known in the US is a seminal occult film. Unlike many other films which feature occult or esoteric themes, there is actually a substantial amount of research reflected in this film base emerging from the 1934 novel of the same name by Dennis Wheatley. In this more light-hearted episode of Esoterica, we explore this classic 1968 Hammer film wi
The Mystical Theology of Affection - Bernard of Clairvaux
Is Love fundamental reality? Bernard of Clairvaux (1090 - 1153) is among the pillars of western mysticism. In his mystical theology, he takes John's declaration that "God is Love" to it's radical conclusion: Love is both the means and the goal of all existence. Thus, the soul must undergo a series of transformations through love so as to be raptured up into the Divine Love which is God. Let's
Corpus Hermeticum - Introduction to Hermes Trismegistus and Hermetic Philosophy
The Corpus Hermeticum are the texts and teachings ascribed to the legendary Egyptian sage, priest, and philosopher Hermes Trismegistus. When translated and published by Ficino in 1471 these texts were heralded as the very source of pure, perennial wisdom. In the subsequent years, these ideas went on to have a massive impact upon what is now called western esotericism. Just what are these teachi
Psychedelic Natural Magic - Potions from the 1558 Magiae Naturalis of Giambattista della Porta
While psychoactive substances are a core component in many religious traditions, with the exception of alcohol, they are conspicuously missing from much of the western European context. Did and how did such substances play a role in religious, philosophy, mysticism, and magic? This episode explores what appears to be an early selection of mind-altering compounds found in the enormously popular 15
The Final Teachings of Jesus Christ or Gnostic Forgery?
The "Sophia (lit. Wisdom) of Jesus Christ" is an ancient text in which the resurrected Messiah directly answers the Apostles questions on topics of cosmology, metaphysics and redemption. But, the answers Jesus provides are downright strange, detailing ineffable beings, various eternal realms or aeons and a final unification of the soul with the divine. The mystery of this text is deepened by the
How did Alchemy work?
Scientists at CERN recently transmuted lead into gold thus achieving one of the long-sought after aims of the Alchemists. But, given that chemical transmutation of metals is impossible, just what was going on in the crucibles of ancient alchemy? Let's explore the history and science behind alchemical transmutation to better understand just how ingenious the alchemists really were.Uploaded 25-07-2
Sefer Yetzirah - Book of Formation - Introduction to a Core Early Text of Kabbalah Cabala Qabbalah
The Sefer Yetzirah is perhaps the oldest text of what would become the Jewish Mysticism known as the Kabbalah. Though, virtually everything about this brief text is a mystery. When was it written, by whom and exactly what it means are all hotly debated topics by academics, kabbalists and occultists. Indeed, the text is so linked with magical power that commentaries on the text describe how one
What is Spiritual Alchemy?
What is Spiritual Alchemy? Most people interested in alchemy these days are primarily interested in alchemy as a kind of mystical self-transformation. But, where did this concept first emerge in European Alchemy? We first find the concept that the concept of alchemy as spiritual transformation in a obscure text known as Azoth Et Ignis - Azoth and Fire (1584-99/1702). Born in heterodox Protestan
Christian Origins of Science and Occultism - Albertus Magnus
How did a Medieval Saint Gave Us Science and Occultism? Medieval Christianity is often remembered as a threat to both the development of Science and Magic - this is a gross oversimplification. In Albertus Magnus, we see Science, Religion and Occultism wonderfully combined. Let's dive into the works of and attributed to Albert the Great, especially in his interactions with the world of the Occult,
Primer on Alchemy (FIA Lecture)
This is a lecture I gave last year at the Flint Institute of Art on the history, theory, and symbolism of alchemy. It's going to serve as an introduction to alchemy until I make a series for the channel.Support Esoterica: https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelSupport Adam McLean's art and research: https://www.alchemywebsite.com/bookshop/index.htmlSupport the Flint Institute of Arts: https:/
John Dee - The Monas Hieroglyphica - Part II - Alchemy and Cabala
This is the second episode exploring Dr. John Dee's famous 1564 Monas Hieroglyphica. In this episode we continue our discussion of Dee's Semiotic-Ontology (his link of Representation with Being) by exploring his early theories of alchemy and Cabala. Dee was a maverick in both fields. In alchemy, Dee sought to pursue the "Mercury Alone" theory while maintaining a relationship with traditional al
The Mystical Dreams of Descartes - Exploring the Origins of Rationalism and Modernity
In this episode we explore the non-rational origins of rationalism by investigating a series of dreams had by Rene Descartes - thought to have founded rationalism and modern philosophy - on the night of November 10/11, 1619. Early in his career Descartes, like many intellectuals of his day, was searching for new intellectual and scientific foundations as the worldview provided by Aristotle had be
Win a 439 year old book of Alchemy by Paracelsus!
Win this wonderful book of alchemy! Learn more in the video.Uploaded 10-10-25Esoterica Occult Books - https://www.esotericaoccultbooks.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/esotericaoccultbooks/Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Introduction to Merkavah Mysticism - 6 of 15 - The Four that Entered the Garden
Welcome to our seminar on Merkavah MysticismUploaded 02-09-25Hundreds of years prior to the rise of the Kabbalah, shaman-like rabbinic mystics were described as having made the terrifying and awe-inspiring descent into the Divine Palaces. There they met with and bypassed fearsome angels with magical codes, gained control over angelic powers, became transformed into beings of fire, gained vast wis
Esotericism in Philosophy: Pythagoras and Parmenides
Philosophy is taken to be the paragon of rational argumentation and logical analysis but I want to explore the esoteric and mystical aspect of ancient Greek philosophy - a dimension often ignored or unstressed . This is the first in a series that will explore this more arcane side of western philosophy from ancient Greece to contemporary analytic and continental schools.Uploaded 03-04-20Support E
Esoteric Film Review and Analysis - A Dark Song
A review and analysis of the 2016 film A Dark Song. I'll be discussing the esoteric and occult aspects of the film including the Abramelin operation, Aleister Crowley's infamous invocation at Boleskine, and some thoughts on how the film deals with the Faustian trope in a novel manner.A whole video on the Abramelin operation will appear in the future as part of Esoterica's series on books of magic
Was Lilith a Joke? How Bad Translation and Parody Created a Demon
Since the romantic rehabilitation of Lilith from child-murderer and nocturnal seducer of men to symbol of feminine power and defiance, Lilith has become one of the most recognizable of modern demons. But her origin, first in ancient Mesopotamia and then in the early medieval Jewish literature are marked by curious historical accidents. Curiously enough, Lilith may have emerged as a linguistic mi
The Lesser Key of Solomon - History of Solomonic Magic and Goetia - Check out updated 2023 video!
Solomon has been associated with both exoteric and esoteric wisdom - especially magic and control of demons - for millennia. This Episode of Esoterica explores the history of Solomonic magic and the it's most famous expression in the Lemegeton or The Lesser Key of Solomon. We will deep dive into the history of Solomon as a sorcerer, the development of Solomonic Magic, and the composition and str
Is the Hermetic Philosophy a Forgery?
The publication of the Hermetic Philosophy in 1471 heralded the possibility to returning to truly primordial wisdom. Indeed, mystical wisdom thought to have the power to restore Human Dignity through the unity of the microcosm with the macrocosm, the occult arts and reuniting the human soul with the divine. Along with Cabala, the Hermetic philosophers sought to reform all domains of philosophy a
Alchemy - Origins of Alchemy in Europe - First Alchemy Book - The Composition of Alchemy ( 1144 )
Alchemy is one of the more obscure aspect of western esotericism and the history of science. In this episode of Esoterica, we explore the first known European alchemical text The Book of the Composition of Alchemy (Liber de compositione alchemiae) translated from the Kitab al-Kimya (from the circle of Jabbir ibn Hayyan c. 8th CE) by Robert of Chester on February 11th 1144. The book features in m
Mystical Language - Hildegard of Bingen's Lingua Ignota (Unknown Language) - Early Invented Tongue
The first in a series here at Esoterica exploring esoteric languages and symbol systems! This video takes a look at the Lingua Ignota (Unknown Language) of the 12th century mystic and polymath Hildegard of Bingen.Support Esoterica on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelO Orzchis Ecclesia - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGCAOf9gjBMRecommended Readings:Sarah Higley - Hildegard of B
Necromancy - How to Read a Historical Book of Magic / Necromancy - Reading a Real Necronomicon
This episode celebrates 1000 Subscribers! This time we answers fans of the channel's request for an analysis of a historical book of magic. What if you were to stumble onto an actual copy of the something like the Necronomicon of HP Lovecraft / Evil Dead lore? How would you go about actually reading it? Here, we discuss at length, the various processes scholars perform to understand medieval b
Esoterica - Patreon Call
Support Esoterica on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/esotericachannelEsoterica hopes for your support as we create videos on alchemy, magic, mysticism, theosophy, hermetica philosophy, kabbalah, gnosticism, new age spirituality!I will be making videos on the topics above along with ongoing series on books of magic, occult languages, major figures in esoteric spirituality, a chronological introdu
SOLD OUT! Join @ESOTERICA and @Atun-Shei Films Tour of Esoteric New England 2026
Join Andy Rakich (Atun-Shei Films) and Dr. Justin Sledge (Esoterica) for an October tour of Esoteric New England, October 9-16 2026:Uploaded 31-10-25Purchase Tickets here - https://www.esotericaoccultbooks.com/shop/p/esoteric-new-england-with-andy-justin-october-2026Donate to the budget of "The Alchemist" ► https://www.paypal.me/atunsheifilmsThe tour will start in rural Rhode Island visiting forgo
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