Thelema

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Aleister Crowley, Magus

Francois Rabelais - Portrait

Hogarth Dashwood

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Stelae of Ankh-af-na-khonsu

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Thelema is a spiritual and philosophical tradition founded in the early 20th century by the British writer and ceremonial magician Aleister Crowley. Thelema's central tenet is the phrase "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law. Love is the law, love under will." This statement, known as the Law of Thelema, emphasizes the sovereignty of the individual's will as the fundamental principle of the universe, guiding followers to discover and fulfill their True Will, an intrinsic unique purpose.

Origins and History

Thelema was established through the works of Aleister Crowley (1875–1947), who believed he received the foundational text of Thelema, The Book of the Law (also known as Liber AL vel Legis), through a supernatural entity named Aiwass in 1904. This event, which Crowley referred to as the Cairo Working, marked the beginning of Thelema as a new religious movement. Crowley's interpretation of The Book of the Law was influenced by his experiences in the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn, an organization dedicated to the study and practice of the occult, metaphysics, and paranormal activities.

Beliefs and Practices

Thelemites practice a range of rituals and magical works derived from Hermetic Qabalah, Enochian Magic, and Eastern mysticism, among other sources. Central to Thelemic practice is the pursuit of discovering and living in accordance with one's True Will, different from one's momentary desires. Thelema incorporates elements from Western esotericism, yoga, and Eastern philosophies, making it a syncretic system.

Thelema's ethical code is encapsulated in the phrase "Do what thou wilt," which is often misunderstood. In Thelemic belief, this dictum does not endorse hedonism, but rather the alignment of one's actions with their True Will, which is believed to be in harmony with the cosmic order.

Sacred Texts

The primary sacred text of Thelema is The Book of the Law, which outlines the laws and principles of the religion. Other important texts include Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli, Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente, and Liber Trigrammaton, among others, which explore various philosophical, magical, and mystical themes central to Thelemic practice.

Organizations

Several organizations have been established to promote the study and practice of Thelema, the most notable being the Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.) and the A∴A∴ (Argentium Astrum, the Silver Star). The O.T.O. was reorganized by Crowley to align with Thelemic principles and serves as a fraternal, religious, and educational organization. The A∴A∴ is a spiritual organization focused on personal enlightenment and the attainment of higher states of consciousness.

Influence and Legacy

Thelema has influenced various cultural and spiritual movements, as well as notable figures in the arts and literature. Its emphasis on individualism and personal spiritual development resonates with contemporary movements in spirituality and new religious movements.

Criticism and Controversy

Thelema has been subject to criticism and controversy, largely due to Crowley's provocative life and the misinterpretation of Thelemic tenets. Critics often focus on Crowley's libertine lifestyle and the perceived amorality of "Do what thou wilt," without acknowledging the philosophical and ethical framework that underpins Thelemic practice.

Conclusion

Thelema represents a significant and influential movement in modern spiritual and philosophical thought. Its emphasis on personal freedom, individual will, and the synthesis of Eastern and Western esoteric traditions continues to attract followers and influence contemporary spiritual practices.