Cosmic Artifacts

Why All Psychic Experiences Are Inherently Unreliable

On November 23, 2025

The soul never thinks without a phantasm.
— Aristotle, De Anima III.7, 431a14

Why All Psychic Experiences Are Inherently Unreliable This statement by Aristotle sums up perfectly why theurgical operations fail. The pure part of our soul requires our imagination to communicate…and imagination is fickle.

Unreliability & Human Error in Theurgy

In our bodily incarnation we think and experience everything in linear terms while spirit is the opposite. That is the nature of the world of matter, it is given a strong sense of separation so that the experience of time, space, past, present and future, cause and effect. Having an individual existence and experiencing physical sensation is only possible because of it.… Continue reading

Socrates: The Philosopher Guided by His ‘Internal Oracle’

By Brandon Michael

On November 16, 2025

In Methodologies

It is the task of the philosopher to purify the soul of the illusions and distractions of sense-perception, so that it may use its own eye more clearly.
— Plato, Theaetetus 176a–b

Socrates And His Daimon

Socrates Internal Oracle The personal daimon that Socrates regularly conversed with is the most straightforward example of obtaining information through extrasensory means. He referred to this spirit as his “internal oracle”. In the Apology, Socrates said that he believed it to be of divine origin and its presence was something that had been with him since childhood.

This internal spirit did not function like the common perception of oracles receiving detailed answers to questions.… Continue reading

The Dangers of the Eclipse- Sun and North Node

By Brandon Michael

On March 21, 2024

In Articles

Sun and North Node Eclipse The foundational text of astrological magic and talismans Picatrix (Ghayat al Hakim) was published in English for the first time in its immense history, from a medieval Latin manuscript, by Christopher Warnock and John Michael Greer in 2011.

Although the book had been published by Ouroboros Press in two volumes (2002 and 2008) from Arabic manuscripts, it was generally not usable in practice due to the highly specific astrological terms being misunderstood by the translator and most of the key instructions, such as the proper astrological conditions for combining the sun with the north node, were omitted or mistranslated.

The Warnock-Greer edition had the notable distinction of being translated and edited by a practicing astrologer.… Continue reading

The Blood Moon Eclipse of Alexander the Great

By Brandon Michael

On February 6, 2024

In Articles

In only 13 years Alexander the Great conquered one of the largest empires in human history whose influence continues to this day. His empire stretched from Greece, parts of north Africa, Egypt, and across approximately one fourth of the continent of Asia, all the way to India. Although vastly outnumbered, Alexander rapidly defeated the Persian Empire which encompassed almost half of the world’s population and was his most stunning achievement.

Like Sultan Mehmet II almost 2,000 years later, Alexander the Great carefully timed his most important battle and unlikely victory around a lunar eclipse, also known as a Blood Moon, and performed an astrological magic ritual shortly after his initiation into the most secret rites of the Egyptian priesthood.… Continue reading

Astrological Factors for Creating Talismans

By Brandon Michael

On November 7, 2023

In Talismans

Below are the astrological factors that I use for creating astrological talismans, which I compiled from the notoriously difficult and complicated instructions in Picatrix.

This list applies to all types of talismans, whether it be planetary, zodiac or one of the fixed stars.

First and foremost: Appearance, material and art style is secondary. The astrological configuration is the single most important factor.

This is backed up by Picatrix and virtually all other known sources. It is far better to have an unsightly piece of metal with a crude engraving made under optimal astrological conditions than a flashy, attractive piece of art made under poor or minimal astrological conditions.… Continue reading

The Magi – Astrologers, Magicians & Forgotten Pioneers of Western Civilization?

By Brandon Michael

On November 6, 2023

In Articles

Introduction – The Persian Magi

Often overshadowed in historical narratives, they Persian Magi were instrumental in shaping the foundational elements of Western civilization. Their contributions to monotheistic religions, human rights, and Greek philosophy will be explored in-depth.

The Persian Magi may be the single most important group of people in the history of the western world and among the most overlooked. The three great Monotheistic religions grew from them in some way. Ideas like human rights, cross-cultural exchange of ideas, religious tolerance, and preserving ancient knowledge started with the Persian Empire 2,500 years ago. And finally, Greek philosophy, from which rational inquiry, the scientific method, and democracy emerged came about largely as a result of Greeks learning from the Magi from which the philosophers grew and influenced the world for the next 2,000 years.… Continue reading

Unlocking the Potential of Mercury Talismans

By Brandon Michael

On June 20, 2023

In Planetary Talismans, Talismans

In the fascinating realm of medieval and Renaissance astrology, each planet holds unique attributes, influencing various aspects of human life. Among these celestial bodies, Mercury, named after the Roman messenger god, stands out for its diverse associations. This blog post will delve into the intriguing world of Mercury talismans, providing a brief yet comprehensive overview of their significance and potential benefits. For a more detailed exploration, feel free to visit our comprehensive guide on planetary talismans.

Communication and Intellect

Mercury, in the astrological realm, is the planet of communication and intellect. Talismans associated with Mercury are believed to enhance the wearer’s communication skills and mental clarity, thereby boosting their intellectual abilities.… Continue reading

Exploring the Mystical Influence of Venus Talismans

By Brandon Michael

On June 20, 2023

In Planetary Talismans, Talismans

In the realm of medieval and Renaissance astrology, the planet Venus held a special place. It was associated with a multitude of talismanic attributes, each one offering unique benefits to the wearer. This blog post offers a brief exploration of the Venus section from our comprehensive guide on Planetary Talismans.

Love and Romance

Venus, the celestial embodiment of love and romance, was believed to bestow upon its talisman wearers an irresistible charm and allure. The Venus talismans were seen as potent enhancers of one’s romantic prospects, amplifying their appeal and increasing their chances of finding true love.

Beauty and Aesthetics

The planet Venus was also revered for its connection to beauty and aesthetics.… Continue reading

The Power of Mars Talismans: A Quick Guide

By Brandon Michael

On June 18, 2023

In Planetary Talismans, Talismans

In the fascinating world of medieval and Renaissance astrology, Mars holds a special place. Known for its fiery red hue and named after the Roman god of war, Mars has been associated with a variety of talismanic attributes. This brief guide will delve into the key attributes of Mars talismans, offering a glimpse into their historical significance and uses. For a more comprehensive exploration, be sure to check out our full article on planetary talismans.

Courage and Strength

Mars, the embodiment of courage and strength, was revered for its association with physical prowess and combat. Mars talismans were believed to amplify these qualities, enhancing the wearer’s bravery and physical abilities.… Continue reading

Unveiling the Power of Jupiter Talismans

By Brandon Michael

On June 18, 2023

In Planetary Talismans, Talismans

Jupiter, the king of the Roman gods, has long been associated with a plethora of talismanic attributes in the realm of medieval and Renaissance astrology. This blog post offers a quick dive into the fascinating world of Jupiter talismans, providing a glimpse into their rich history and potent attributes. For a more comprehensive exploration, be sure to check out our full guide on Planetary Talismans.

Wealth and Abundance

Jupiter, in its celestial grandeur, has always been a symbol of wealth and abundance. This is particularly true in the context of generosity and good fortune. Talismans associated with Jupiter were believed to act as magnets for wealth and good luck, drawing these blessings towards the wearer.… Continue reading