The occult (from Latin occultus, meaning hidden) refers to knowledge and practices involving hidden or unseen forces. On the path of knowledge, the occult is recognised as one of several spiritual paths — the path of desires, magic, rituals and control of unseen forces.

The path of occult

The path of occult is described as a "lower path" — one taken by seekers who are still encumbered by desires. Through occult practices, these desires can be fulfilled quickly, which eventually leads to freedom from the enslavement to desires. When all desires are fulfilled, the seeker naturally gravitates toward essential knowledge.

Occult and knowledge

Even occult practices ultimately depend on knowledge. One cannot summon deities or perform effective rituals without knowing how. Knowledge is at the root of everything — the occult is just one application of it.

Caution

The path of occult is considered more difficult and strange than the direct path of knowledge. It can involve dealing with forces that are not well understood. A seeker is advised to try the path of knowledge first before descending into more complicated paths.

Qualities of an occultist

The qualities of an occultist — patience, discipline, attention to detail, and respect for hidden forces — overlap with the qualities of a seeker, though the orientation is different.

See also: path of knowledge, qualities of a seeker, seeker.