The term "occult" comes from the Latin word "occultus" which means "hidden" or "secret." The occult is a broad term that includes a wide variety of practices and beliefs that fall outside of mainstream religion and science.
Some of the most well-known forms of the occult include:
- Astrology: This is the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies as a means of divining information about human affairs and natural phenomena.
- Alchemy: This is the ancient practice of attempting to change base metals into gold and to find the elixir of life.
- Tarot: This is a form of divination that uses a deck of cards to gain insight into the past, present, and future.
- Numerology: This is the study of the symbolism of numbers and their relationship to the universe.
- Spirituality: This is the belief in the existence of non-material spiritual realities or entities and the quest for an ultimate inner understanding or connection with them.
Many other practices and beliefs fall under the umbrella of the occult, such as:
- Magic: This refers to the use of supernatural or mystical powers to bring about specific results or changes in reality.
- Witchcraft: This is the practice of using magic and spells to bring about desired results or changes in reality.
- Theosophy: This is a spiritual and philosophical system that seeks to understand the nature of the universe and the relationship between humanity and the divine.
- Hermeticism: This is a set of spiritual and philosophical beliefs based on the teachings of the Hermetica, a collection of texts from late antiquity that deal with topics such as alchemy, astrology, and the nature of the divine.
The occult has a long history, and many of its practices and beliefs can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where they were often associated with religious rituals and spiritual practices. In modern times, the occult has often been viewed with suspicion and skepticism by mainstream society, and many of its practices are considered to be pseudoscience or superstition.
It's important to note that some of the practices that are considered to be part of the occult can be dangerous if not used properly. Some people have been known to use the occult to manipulate and control others, and there are also risks associated with some of the practices, such as mental and physical harm.
In summary, the occult refers to a wide variety of practices and beliefs that fall outside of mainstream religion and science. Some of the most well-known forms of the occult include astrology, alchemy, tarot, numerology, and spirituality. The occult has a long history and many of its practices and beliefs can be traced back to ancient civilizations, but it has often been viewed with suspicion and skepticism by mainstream society. Some of the practices that are considered to be part of the occult can be dangerous if not used properly.