The Esoteric Witch

The Esoteric Witch

I am a passionate software developer from the beautiful town of Kaarina, Finland. In my free time, I explore the fascinating world of art history and occultism. I am fascinated by the stories behind the great works of art and the hidden meanings behind the symbols used in the occult. My interests also include Tarot and oracle cards, which I find to be great tools for self-reflection and personal growth. I am always on the lookout for interesting books and resources related to witchcraft, and I enjoy exploring different rituals and practices.
The Key to the Tarot

The Key to the Tarot: Discovering Valuable Insights and Lessons

I recently purchased The Tarot of A. E. Waite and P. Colman Smith, which includes a deck of Waite Smith Tarot cards, a facsimile edition of The Key to the Tarot, and an illustrated book. A. E. Waite's book, The Key to the Tarot, is considered one of the most authoritative works on the Tarot. It provides background information on the cards and tells you how they could be used. The book is a valuable resource for Tarot enthusiasts and can help deepen your understanding of Tarot and its mysteries.
Alexandre Cabanel - Fallen Angel

Lucifer – The Light-Bringer’s Journey Through Mythology and Theology

This blog post delves into the fascinating and complex history of Lucifer and his significance in occultism. We will explore the various interpretations of Lucifer throughout history and how his image has evolved over time. Additionally, we will examine how practitioners of different occult traditions perceive him and his role in modern occultism. We will also discuss Luciferianism, a belief system that centres around the pursuit of individual freedom, knowledge, and self-improvement. Finally, we will look at the symbolism and imagery associated with Luciferianism, which represents enlightenment, knowledge, defiance, and liberation.
Detail of The Effects of Good Government, a fresco in the City Hall of Siena by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, 1338.

Medieval Art

Medieval art, a product of various movements and styles, was a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. It depicted a wide array of subjects and transitioned from the abstract style of Byzantine art to a more naturalistic and three-dimensional direction. The use of techniques like stained glass, frescoes, illuminated manuscripts, and sculptures in wood and stone was not just common, but a hallmark of this art form. The influence of early Christian art, one of the most significant early Christian art forms, was profound, paving the way for the development of subsequent styles such as Romanesque and Gothic art.
Occult Tarot

Occult Tarot

The Occult Tarot is a full tarot deck featuring 72 demons from Ars Goetia and six additional ruling demons. The cards have a traditional art style resembling old grimoires, and each card contains a lot of information, including the demon's abilities and a collection of seals and sigils from different sources. The deck serves as a quick reference to Goetic demons and their abilities, but the guidebook is lacking and doesn't provide much additional information beyond what is already on the cards. Despite this, it is a well-made deck with sturdy cards and decent paper quality.
Picture of Carl Jung

Archetypes of Carl Jung

In this post, we explore Carl Jung's theories on archetypes and their significance in shaping our behaviour. Archetypes are universal patterns of behaviour that are present across cultures and societies, and there are four primary archetypes: Persona, Shadow, Anima/Animus, and Self. Additionally, we discuss the 12 archetypes defined by Carol S. Pearson and Margaret Mark in their book "The Hero and the Outlaw," including the Innocent, Explorer, Sage, Hero, Outlaw, Magician, Regular Person, Lover, Jester, Caregiver, Creator, and Ruler.
Seasons of the Witch Imbolc Oracle

Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle

The Seasons of the Witch: Imbolc Oracle is a deck of 44 cards designed to help people navigate the changes associated with the festival of Imbolc. It is part of a series inspired by the Wheel of the Year and offers guidance and inspiration to those seeking it. The deck features cosy art and comes with an excellent guidebook that provides valuable information about each card.
pink and white flower bloom during daytime close-up photography

Wheel of the Year – Imbolc

Imbolc is an old Gaelic festival celebrated on February 1st or 2nd in the Northern Hemisphere. It marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. Imbolc has a rich history and deep roots in Celtic mythology. The festival was originally celebrated as a tribute to Brigid, a triple goddess known for her poetry, smithing skills, fertility, and healing talents. Imbolc is a time of renewal, purification, and the coming of spring, and it is still celebrated by many worldwide. Some traditions and rituals associated with Imbolc include spring cleaning, creating Brigid's Cross, making kitchen magic, building an altar, lighting candles, and making incense blends.
selective focus photography of faceted red gemstone

Steps in the Pathway to the Philosopher’s Stone

The creation of a Philosopher's Stone is a transformative process, encompassing four distinct stages - nigredo, albedo, citrinitas, and rubedo. The nigredo stage involves breaking down the base materials, reducing them to their essential components. The albedo stage purifies the substance, eliminating impurities. The citrinitas stage introduces new elements, replacing the old and manifesting the desired properties of the philosopher's stone. The rubedo stage signifies the ultimate achievement. This alchemical journey is a path of self-discovery and spiritual transformation, leading to the realization of one's true potential and the attainment of enlightenment.
Sixth woodcut from the series in Basil Valentine's Azoth

Alchemical Concepts and Their Symbols

This post explores some of the most famous alchemical concepts that have gained recognition and become widely associated with alchemy among the broader audience throughout history. It delves into the meanings and symbolism behind the Philosopher's Stone, Caduceus, Ouroboros, and Azoth and their significance in alchemy and beyond.