Mystics and Magicians
Isaac Bonewits once called magic the active aspect of occultism, mysticism its passive aspect. But religious contemplation is by no means a passive condition, and its literature is filled with warnings against “quietism.” The difference is more fundamental. The mystical traditions of the major religions condemn magic as a distraction, a trap; something to be bypassed as quickly as possible. Qualities that are considered major obstacles by mystics, such as egomania and will power [sic], seem always to have been the prime requisites for practicing magicians. Apparently some people have been able to shift back and forth between miracle working and contemplation. Perhaps it is enough not to attempt both at the same time.
— Richard Smith, Prelude to Science, p. 21
| Other Excerpts From This Source: |
|---|
