M 2022

Hedonistic Occultism : Blood Desire Sex and Magic

MARRONE, Tancredi Andrew and Andrej KAPCÁR

Basic information

Original name

Hedonistic Occultism : Blood Desire Sex and Magic

Authors

MARRONE, Tancredi Andrew (380 Italy, guarantor, belonging to the institution) and Andrej KAPCÁR (703 Slovakia, belonging to the institution)

Edition

2022

Other information

Language

English

Type of outcome

Uspořádání konference

Field of Study

60304 Religious studies

Country of publisher

Czech Republic

Confidentiality degree

není předmětem státního či obchodního tajemství

References:

RIV identification code

RIV/00216224:14210/22:00126050

Organization unit

Faculty of Arts

Keywords in English

Hedonsim; Esotericism; Occultism; Pleasure; BDSM; Mysticism; Art; Culture

Tags

Tags

International impact
Změněno: 22/3/2023 10:28, Mgr. Ivona Vrzalová

Abstract

V originále

The objective of this conference is to enquire and discuss the pursuit of pleasure as a means and a goal of esoteric teachings. The integration of pleasure whether manifested as sex, power, money, revenge, gratification, or safety has always been a relevant objective of magical and alchemical practices. The temptation deriving from the use of hidden powers and gaining supernatural advantages. Sometimes considered as a trap to avoid or equivalent to worldly delusions a hindrance for the initiate. Other times pleasures have been integrated into esoteric systems of thinking, justified or in the most antinomian perspectives, reframed and encouraged. How is thus this objective of pleasure conceptualized, what justifications and roles does it play? What are these pleasures and what do they say about the people who pursue them? The ultimate goals of spiritual practices are generally associated with descriptions of sublime bliss, ecstasy, and achievements of states of being which transcend ordinary temporary satisfaction. These descriptions have been variously interpreted leading lead to debates, accusations of heresy, and exclusion from mystical institutions. Rituals and meditations, lifestyles and systems of belief have evolved around conceptualizing pleasure as a powerful force capable of altering the structure of reality. But these pleasures do not belong necessarily to one faction or one perspective, often times a hedonistic approach does not need to be selfish but geared towards maximizing pleasure for everyone. Gurus and spiritual leaders from various orientations have moreover incentivized the pursuit of pleasure as a necessary component of human existence. Sex magic or various interpretations of alchemy as a union of bodies rather than a union of internal opposites. Intoxication with various substances to increases sensual perception as much as frenetic rituals to inflame one’s spirit. The residues of counterculture also seek the reconceptualization of pleasures in reactive contrast to a perceived oppressive religious institution. The concept of pleasure and its pursuit is thus not necessarily straightforward and there are as many facets to its conceptualization as there are thinkers involved in its exploration. While the conference presentations will be held online we were able to gather some resources to organize a face-to-face event for those who wish to have the full experience. We will hold an artistic and cultural exhibition on the theme of the conference which can be visited at your leisure. It will be open to the public where we also intend to screen the online conference. The conference, together with the art exhibition will take place on 3-4 June, 2022 in Brno, Czech Republic. For guests who wish to attend in person we recommend booking accomodation in advance, or letting us know if you require assistance with your arrival. At the same time, the conference event will be streamed online for those who can’t attend in person.

Links

MUNI/A/1435/2021, interní kód MU
Name: Velké otázky ve studiu náboženství: Snaha o propojování humanitní a přírodovědné expertízy (Acronym: VESNA)
Investor: Masaryk University