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1944 Quote by Aleister Crowley

“In every Magical, or similar system, it is invariably the first condition which the Aspirant must fulfill: he must once and for all and for ever put his family outside his magical circle.Even the Gospels insist clearly and weightily on this.Christ himself (i.e. whoever is meant by this name in…” quote by Aleister Crowley
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“In every Magical, or similar system, it is invariably the first condition which the Aspirant must fulfill: he must once and for all and for ever put his family outside his magical circle.Even the Gospels insist clearly and weightily on this.Christ himself (i.e. whoever is meant by this name in this passage) callously disowns his mother and his brethren (Luke VIII, 19). And he repeatedly makes discipleship contingent on the total renunciation of all family ties. He would not even allow a man to attend his father's funeral!Is the magical tradition less rigid?Not on your life!”

Aleister Crowley

About This Quote

Source Book: Magick in Theory and Practice, 1929

True magical practice demands total renunciation of familial ties, mirroring certain religious teachings that prioritize spiritual commitment over blood relations.

In simple terms: Renounce family for magic.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize spiritual path.

Themes

commitment renunciation spirituality

Mood

serious conflicted

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • joining a secret order
  • ritual initiation
  • leaving a community

Key Concepts

magical hierarchy religious sacrifice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is total renunciation necessary for spiritual growth?
  • What are the costs of cutting family ties?
A Different Perspective

Such extreme separation can cause emotional trauma and social isolation.

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