ЕЛЕМЕНТИ ТРАДИЦІЇ ШАМАНІЗМУ В РИТУАЛЬНІЙ СИСТЕМІ ТЕЛЕМИ ТА ТВОРЧІЙ СПАДЩИНИ АЛЕЙСТЕРА КРОВЛІ

Thelema, the religious-mystical system founded by Aleister Crowley, shares functional analogies with archaic shamanic practices, particularly in altered states of consciousness, ecstatic techniques, astral travel, spirit communication, and the practitioner's role as a mediator between worlds. The analysis draws on Crowley's writings, Mircea Eliade's studies, and contemporary research on shamanism and psychoactive experiences. The work suggests that despite being a modernized Western esoteric system, Thelema parallels shamanism in its ritual work with consciousness. The subject requires further interdisciplinary research across religious studies, anthropology, and the history of mysticism.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This article explores potential intersections between the religious-mystical system of Thelema, founded by Aleister Crowley, and archaic shamanic practices. The analysis focuses on altered states of consciousness, techniques of achieving ecstasy, astral travel, spirit communication, and the role of the practitioner as a mediator between worlds. Key theoretical sources from both traditions are examined, including Crowley’s seminal writings, Mircea Eliade’s studies, and contemporary empirical and philosophical research on shamanism and psychoactive experiences. The study concludes that although Thelema is a modernized and esoteric Western system, it shares several functional analogies with shamanism, especially regarding ritual work with consciousness. The subject calls for further interdisciplinary research at the intersection of religious studies, anthropology, and the history of mysticism.