The occult, with its myriad paths, holds a captivating allure, each leading to a unique destination. Yet, the true fascination lies not in the destination but in the journey itself. Whether your inclinations lean towards witchcraft, alchemy, demonolatry, or something entirely different, the choice between the left-hand and right-hand path beckons. This blog post explores the intriguing differences between these paths, equipping you with the knowledge to determine which resonates with your aspirations. So, let's embark on this exploration and uncover the path that aligns with your spiritual goals!

History of the Paths

The left-hand and right-hand paths, deeply rooted in the history of India, bear the names Vāmācāra and Dakṣiṇācāra, respectively, in the context of Hinduism. Before we go into their contemporary interpretations in Western societies, let's pay homage to their ancient origins.

Vāmācāra and Dakṣiṇācāra

Vāmācāra, also known as the left-hand path, involves practices that are considered unconventional or taboo, such as the use of alcohol, meat, and sexual rituals. It is believed that these practices help to overcome the limitations of the mind and body and achieve spiritual liberation. However, these practices are often kept secret and only revealed to those who have undergone strict spiritual discipline.

On the other hand, Dakṣiṇācāra, also known as the right-hand path, involves more conventional practices such as meditation, prayer, and self-discipline. It emphasises the importance of ethical behaviour and cultivating virtues such as compassion, truthfulness, and non-violence. It is believed that following these practices can purify the mind and attain spiritual realisation.

Both Vāmācāra and Dakṣiṇācāra are considered valid paths to spiritual liberation in Hinduism. Still, they are suited to different temperaments and levels of spiritual development. It is important to note that Vāmācāra is often misunderstood and misinterpreted, with some associating it with negative practices. However, it is crucial to understand that these misconceptions do not reflect the true essence of Vāmācāra, which is a path of self-discovery and spiritual liberation. It is also worth noting that Vāmācāra is not widely practised by most Hindus.

Left-Hand Path and Right-Hand Path in Western Esoterism

In Western esotericism, the left-hand and the right-hand paths are viewed as opposing approaches. The left-hand path is often associated with dark magic and practices that involve manipulating others or pursuing personal power and individuality. It is a path that encourages self-discovery and the exploration of one's own power. In contrast, the right-hand path is connected with white magic or practices focusing on selflessness, spiritual enlightenment, and the greater good. It is a path that emphasises the importance of ethical behaviour and the cultivation of virtues. Understanding these differences can help you decide which path aligns with your goals and aspirations.

Aleister Crowley and Helena Blavatsky were influential occultists of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They played a significant role in popularising the concepts of the left-hand and right-hand paths. Crowley, also known as the 'wickedest man in the world,' founded the religious philosophy of Thelema, which focuses on individualism and self-actualisation. His works, including The Book of the Law, continue to be studied and practised by modern occultists who follow the left-hand path.

Blavatsky, on the other hand, was the founder of the Theosophical Society, which aimed to synthesise Eastern and Western spirituality. Her most famous work, The Secret Doctrine, is considered a seminal text in the esoteric tradition and has influenced many occultists who follow the right-hand path. Their contributions to the occult world have shaped the understanding and practice of these paths.

On the other hand, Blavatsky was the founder of the Theosophical Society, which aimed to synthesise Eastern and Western spirituality. Her most famous work, The Secret Doctrine, is considered a seminal text in the esoteric tradition and has influenced many occultists who follow the right-hand path.

Today, many esotericists choose to transcend the dichotomy between the left-hand and right-hand paths, embracing a more comprehensive approach to spirituality and magic. Even if you opt not to align with either path, comprehending these concepts is a powerful tool in your spiritual journey, empowering you with a deeper understanding of the occult.

Julington Durbin Creek — Photo by Natalie Grainger on Unsplash

Right-Hand Path

The right-hand path (RHP) stands out among spiritual paths for its emphasis on specific rules and beliefs, making it a more traditional choice. It's a path that many ceremonial magic groups and covens of witches align with.

When exploring the RHP, one can't help but notice the strong sense of community that permeates its traditions. Beliefs about the division of mind, body, and spirit into separate but interconnected entities are common, as are adherence to a moral code and a belief in some form of judgment, such as karma or the Threefold Law. These shared moral codes foster a sense of communal experience, making the RHP a spiritual path that is not just about individual growth, but also about collective understanding and support.

One interesting aspect of RHP is its relationship with established religious traditions. Some occultists, like Dion Fortune, have even considered Abrahamic religions to be RHP in nature. This suggests that RHP followers often embrace societal norms and established religious traditions, including following authority and the tenets of organised religions.

While RHP traditions value communal experiences and adherence to a moral code, they also champion individualism and personal freedom to a significant extent. They believe that by following the path of righteousness and adhering to a specific moral code, they can achieve spiritual enlightenment and liberation. This balance between communal and individualistic values is a unique aspect of RHP.

A group of witches — Photo by Sierra Koder on Unsplash

Left-Hand Path

The Left-hand path (LHP) is a spiritual path often misunderstood. It boldly challenges traditional spiritual practices and focuses on achieving spiritual freedom. Unlike the community-focused RHP followers, LHP practitioners, with their courage and determination, are driven by their quest for personal growth and liberation. They fearlessly embrace unconventional techniques and methods, including sex magic and Satanic imagery, which are sometimes considered unsuitable for spiritual use by more traditional societies.

At its core, the LHP is a journey of self-improvement and personal growth. LHP followers firmly believe that spiritual development is a personal voyage. They reject the notion that external sources like organised religion or societal norms can guide them to their desired spiritual destination. Consequently, LHP practitioners often tread a solitary path, relying on their own inner guidance and intuition. They tend to amalgamate various beliefs to form their unique belief system.

Contrary to popular belief, the LHP is not inherently selfish or narcissistic despite its focus on individualism and personal freedom. LHP followers recognize that true self-improvement and spiritual growth can have a positive ripple effect, benefiting not just themselves but also the world around them. Through personal responsibility and self-actualisation, LHP practitioners aspire to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery, thereby fostering a more enlightened and compassionate society.

Baphomet, depicted by Éliphas Lévi in Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie (1856), is considered one of the symbols of left-hand path — Baphomet, depicted by Éliphas Lévi in Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie (1856), is considered a symbol of the left-hand path. Photo by GDJ on Pixabay

Conclusion

Whether you choose the left-hand path, the right-hand path or neither, you can learn much from both. Looking at things from both perspectives opens up new dimensions to your practice. Things are not as black and white as they may initially appear. In the end, I think the most important thing is to strive to develop as a person, and if you can help others in the process, that can't be a bad thing.

Paths of Occultism

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