WHAT IS THE OCCULT?
'Occult' simply means 'hidden', implying hidden forces or knowledge. When we speak of the Occult, we are usually referring to an extremely wide and varied group of beliefs and practices of which the average person has little or no knowledge (hence 'hidden'). These include astrology, psychism and spiritualism, esoteric Christianity, cabalism, freemasonry, channelling, witchcraft, and many others too numerous to list here.
These beliefs may interact with one another, or be mutually exclusive. Occult practices (the 'occult sciences') are even more varied and include alternative medicine, psychic healing, taromancy, predictive astrology, mediumship, astral projection, magic, and many, many more. 'Occult' knowledge is available to anyone who makes the effort to seek it.
IS THE OCCULT 'SATANIC'?
Satanism is considered by some people as an occult belief as many of the Satanic practices are antisocial or illegal. What needs to be appreciated is that only an extremely small minority of persons involved with occult studies are also involved with Satanism. Most Occultists are deeply committed to Christian beliefs. Indeed, many techniques employed by mainstream Christian churches are considered by most occultists to be magical operations.
IS THE OCCULT DANGEROUS?
Any belief structure if uncritically followed can be dangerous, and this is best seen in the more radical forms of religious expression. Also, some people fraudulently claim to be able to use psychic or magical powers, and ask money for their services. (This is illegal in all Australian States.)
You should always use careful judgement when assessing claims made within the occult fields.
DOESN'T THE OCCULT INVOLVE THE USE OF SEX AND DRUGS?
Some occult fields employ sexual techniques (e.g. Tantrik yoga, some forms of witchcraft, Satanism) and though not illegal, you should be cautious about involvement in such groups without first satisfying yourself as to their intentions and credibility.
The use of most mind-altering substances is illegal in all Australian States. However, some occult fields (e.g. herbalism, some traditions of witchcraft) have historic and practical knowledge in the area, and may use certain herbs in other than medicinal ways. Again, you should satisfy yourself as to the intentions and credibility of any person who suggests the need to employ drugs in their work.
AREN'T WITCHCRAFT AND SATANISM THE SAME THING?
Definately not! Most Witches do not believe in the existence of Satan, and are therefore not interested in the worship of him. Satan is a Jedeo-Christian concept which has no parallel in traditional or modern witchcraft beliefs. Unfortunately, some Satanists call themselves 'witches'. And the popular press is seldom careful in making a distinction.
WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE OCCULT?
Depending on your particular interest, start with your local library. Consult the catalogue (few libraries have many of their books on the shelves), and ask the librarian for assistance. Visit a bookshop which sells 'occult' books and ask the person in charge for recommendations. Obtain or subscribe to magazines which deal with the specialty in which you are interested. Make contact with people who write for these magazines, or who advertise in the contact columns in them.
Read widely and critically.
WHAT IF I ENCOUNTER PROBLEMS IN MY OCCULT SEARCH?
If the matter is one involving coercion or threats, drugs, fraud or any other illegal activity, do not hesitate to approach the police, who you will find most sympathetic and supportive. If you do not feel at ease visiting you local police station, contact your local State Police Headquarters. Your family medical practitioner or a local priest may be happy to act as a go-between for you. Or contact an occult bookstore, who may be able to arrange help for you.
WHO SHOULD I AVOID IN SEEKING HELP?
Revivalist or Fundamentalist Christian churches have either limited or no knowledge of occult fields, and are extremely biased in their opinions. Furthermore, these groups tend to be only interested in obtaining more followers to their religious persuasion rather than assisting the individual in any practical way. Anything not supportive of, or contrary to, these religious views is considered 'satanic'. This is obviously nonsense. Self-styled 'Cult-Busters' should also be avoided, for the same reasons.
Although many reporters are interested only in accurate investigative reporting, the popular press is concerned with sensationalising situations for its readers, and should be approached for assistance with a great deal of care, and only if other avenues are not available.
SHOULD I FEAR OR AVOID CONTACT WITH THE OCCULT?
There is no reason for this whatsoever, and indeed, as the fields considered by many as occult permeate so many aspects of our lives, an informed and rational approach will reward the seeker with a greatly enhanced knowledge of life.