Aleister Crowley (AL-eh-ster KROW-lee)

Historic Fantasy

Edward Alexander Crowley (a.k.a. Aleister Crowley)

Aleister Crowley, born Edward Alexander Crowley on October 12, 1875, in Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, England, was a British occultist, ceremonial magician, poet, painter, novelist, and mountaineer. Crowley rejected his devout Christian upbringing to pursue a path of esoteric knowledge and occult practices. He attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he developed his interest in mysticism and joined the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. His involvement with the Golden Dawn marked the beginning of his lifelong dedication to occultism. Crowley's most notable contribution to occult practices was his development of Thelema, a spiritual philosophy that he claimed to have received during a mystical experience in Egypt in 1904. Central to Thelema is the maxim "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law," which emphasizes personal freedom and self-discovery. Crowley authored numerous texts on Thelema, including "The Book of the Law" (Liber AL vel Legis), which he considered the foundational scripture of his new religion. Sex magik, a significant aspect of Crowley's teachings, involved using sexual energy to achieve spiritual and magical objectives. Crowley believed that sexual acts could be harnessed to tap into higher states of consciousness and unlock latent magical abilities. His explicit writings on the subject shocked and scandalized many, but they also attracted a following among those seeking alternative spiritual practices. Crowley's teachings on sex magik influenced various later movements and figures within the occult and esoteric communities. Crowley's influence extended beyond his immediate followers. He had connections with many notable figures of his time, including the poet W.B. Yeats, who was also a member of the Golden Dawn, and the novelist Somerset Maugham, who depicted Crowley as a villainous character in his book "The Magician." Additionally, Crowley's work left a lasting impact on the counterculture movements of the 20th century, particularly the 1960s, where his philosophy of personal freedom and exploration of consciousness resonated with many. One of Crowley's most intriguing connections was with Jack Parsons, an American rocket engineer and co-founder of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Parsons was an avid follower of Crowley's teachings and became a prominent member of the Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.), a secret society led by Crowley. Under Crowley's guidance, Parsons conducted rituals and experiments in sex magik, aiming to invoke supernatural entities and achieve higher states of consciousness. Crowley's influence on Parsons extended beyond the realm of the occult, as Parsons integrated aspects of Thelemic philosophy into his scientific work and personal life. This connection exemplifies Crowley's far-reaching impact on both esoteric and mainstream fields. Crowley's involvement with the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn ended controversially. He clashed with other members, including prominent figures like W.B. Yeats, over the leadership and direction of the order. In 1900, Crowley attempted to take over the order's London temple, leading to a dramatic conflict. His abrasive personality and unconventional practices alienated many members, ultimately resulting in his expulsion from the Golden Dawn. Following this, Crowley established his own magical order, the A∴A∴ (Argenteum Astrum or Silver Star), which focused on the teachings of Thelema and Crowley's interpretations of magical practice. Crowley also made claims regarding the breaching of the Seven Seals of Solomon, ancient magical symbols associated with controlling spirits and demons. He believed that his work in the occult had unlocked new spiritual and magical potential, contributing to his reputation as a powerful and controversial figure in the world of esotericism. Despite his controversial reputation and the myriad myths surrounding him, Aleister Crowley remains a pivotal figure in the history of modern occultism and alternative spirituality. His life and work continue to inspire and provoke, solidifying his legacy as one of the most enigmatic and influential occultists of the 20th century.