I decided to conjure Raphael tonight and seek from him initiation into the elemental sphere of air, as well integration of its forces into my own personal sphere.
He refused.
*Sigh*
I mean, what the hell, right???
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| Copyright 2009 Howard David Johnson |
Initially it really surprised me when he refused. I thought my perceptions were failing again and so I repeated the question two more times, taking measures to open my senses more in between. But each time, the answer was "No". After asking him to explain, it went something like this:
"You are not ready for this particular initiation. The weakest element represented in your personality is fire, and most of those traits present are of a negative/unhealthy fiery nature at this time. Chief among them is a lot of anger. Integrating elemental air at this time would be like fanning the flames and it could send those negative fiery traits exploding out of control. Think air fanning fire, causing water to boil. Work on strengthening those fiery traits that are more positive and would contribute something healthy to your life, like passion and creativity, drive and motivation. Check back with me regularly while working on this, as it may not be as long as you think before you are ready."
There is a type of elemental meditation taught by Jason in Strategic Sorcery that can help integrate the forces of the elements into one's sphere. I asked Raphael, with slight defiance, about the possibility of doing such a meditation on elemental air. His response was simply, "Don't."
At that point I asked Raphael about conjuring Michael of elemental fire to assist with balancing that element within my personality. He stated that it is a valid possibility and worth pursuing. He also mentioned a couple of times that I should consult my Genius concerning these things.
So, I guess I have my work cut out for me.
In other news, I know I've been quiet lately, and that's because I've been planning some magical projects. Top among them is a cash box. I'm working on the design and figuring out how I'm going to work it (in terms of the actual painting, carving, etc.).
Well, not like you can force the issue, but at least Raphael's looking out for you. There's always work to be done, and you'll get the air stuff when you're ready for it.
ReplyDeleteand this is why FB "Initiation to Hermetics" is the most complete piece of magick instructional manual i've ever seen, elemental balancing is on the very first chapters of his book.
ReplyDeleteat least R was nice enough to let you know where to go.
@Polyphanes - True, and I found it interesting that he mentioned it might not be as long as I think. For that reason, I'm going to do some activities to help foster positive "fire" in my personality using the meditation I mentioned in the post, as well as stuff from "Initiation Into Hermetics", "The New Hermetics", and such.
ReplyDeleteAdmittedly, part of my disappointment was not being able to do the initiations in the order I wanted, but I'm going to let that go and keep things a bit loose!
@Mr. Black - I actually went through the process of creating the Black & White Mirrors of the Soul a couple years ago. I need to go back, look over them, and update them where needed.
In fact, I think I will indeed do that. Once I get that done, I'm going to work on balancing things out, especially with fire. And I'll be consulting my copy of IIH soon. ;)
I keep bouncing back and forth with the New Hermetics. I'm not fond of purely mental exercises at all, but they do seem to work pretty well.
ReplyDeleteIIH is one of those books that I never seem to get around to getting. Either I lack funds, or my pendulum tells me to get something else instead.
Remember, in Neoplatonic thought the archangels are like your family. They're looking out for ya. :)
H'mm I've tried channeling a little Fire energy whenever I'm mad, it makes my enemies think twice and seems to make them significantly weaker too.
ReplyDeleteA great post and a great reminder that magic isn't always bells and whistles. I just found you via another magical blog and I am so glad I did.
ReplyDelete