The essence of MAGICK is simple enough in all conscience. It is not otherwise with the art of government. The Aim is simply prosperity; but the theory is tangled, and the practice beset with briars. In the same way MAGICK is merely to be and to do. I should add: 'to suffer'. For Magick is the verb; and it is part of the Training to use the passive voice. This is, however, a matter of Initiation rather than of Magick in its ordinary sense. It is not my fault if being is baffling, and doing desperate!
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Crowley says magic is essentially about seeking prosperity, but its theory is complex and practice difficult, requiring suffering and passive acceptance as part of initiation.
- In plain terms
- Magic aims for prosperity but is tangled, needing suffering and passive stance.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept hardship as part of the magical path.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does ‘suffering’ mean in this context?
- How can one balance active effort with passive acceptance?
Another view
The description is vague and mixes metaphor with practical advice, making it hard to apply.
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