Special Note: At the risk of belabouring the extremely obvious, this page is a work in progress, with quite a distance to go before it sleeps.
Definitions, Premisses and Info

A∴ A∴ - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by its members and/or adherents holding teachings of and concepts received through and/or codified by Aleister Crowley and established by him as the A∴A∴ Curriculuum as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. The A∴A∴ is the one true and invisible Order which has operated under various names and guises throughout history to guide the spiritual evolution of humanity. The goals of the A∴A∴ are those which have motivated spiritual exploration and religious inquiry throughout human history. Its methods are those of science; its aims are those of religion.
It is the Arcanum Arcanorum, and the Holy of Holies wherein the Sacred Ark rests inviolate. Every legitimate magical order, mystery school, religion, or other agency disseminating some portion of Wisdom or Light is or has been but an Outer Vehicle of this Inner Fellowship of Light. "All words are sacred and all prophets true; save only that they understand a little..." (Liber Legis, I:56).
This is the highest and purest meaning of A∴A∴
More commonly, however, we use the name A∴A∴ to mean not only this Invisible and Eternal Order, but a particular outer structure, or terrestrial incarnation of the Interior School, which came into being, beginning in 1906 C.E., at the hands of two Adepts named Aleister Crowley and George Cecil Jones. This Order survives today through various authentic lineages which can be traced back to these two Adepts. The A∴A∴ takes on all comers, as Probationers, hence, doubtless it's need to enter periodic periods of Silence. (see complete entry on A∴ A∴)

Ab - In an Ægyptian Paradigm the Ab has independent existence but also functions as a component of a sentient Being during a particular incarnation and/or series of incarnations. When discussed in reference to a particular Individual within a specific incarnation the Ab may be considered as The Heart, the Essence of the Entity. The Ab is the chief seat of the Individual's Emotions, also some functions of the Mind, particularly, what is appropriate or just. During mummification all the organs except the heart were removed. The Heart acts as an integrating nexus between the component aspects of the Being and ties them together. If considered within a Sanatana Dharma Chakric context, the Ab might be considered to work in the arena of the Anahata Chakra or what is often called in the West, the Heart Chakra. A more complete listing of the various component parts in this particular system of reconstituted Ægyptian Parts of the Entity.

Aberrantism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is contrary to the values of the mainstream, "normal society" [see ContraReActivism, a related concept]

Abramic (Yahwist Hebrew-Christian-Muslim) - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the belief that a covenant was made between a Sumerian citizen: Abram, circa ~2000bce and one of the deities of the Israelite/Canaanite Pantheon, who claimed to be the only extant deity in the Cosmos (Jehovah/Yahweh) whereby Abram became Abraham and was promised that he would be the patriarch of many nations in exchange for the Israelites considering that deity to be the only God and providing him with worship; and writings or viewpoints of various authors of the more orthodox currently accepted versions of the Bible and/or the Qu'ran as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. The term Abramic Religions is derived from Abram/Abraham's name. Judaism, Christianity, Islam, the Bahá'í World Faith and possibly others trace their roots back to Abraham. This situation is further complicated by the fact that there are thousands of different and often mutually exclusive definitions of which sects are included in Christianity and Islam and which are not. They are all in many ways religions based literally and/or symbolically on different combinations of collections of writings called the Bible and/or the Qu'ran. The values implied in a literal translation of this Bible inspired Mark Twain to say, "Most people are bothered by those passages of Scripture they do not understand, but the passages that bother me are those I do understand."

Absolute Dating - The Absolute Dating methodology, sometimes also referred to as Chronometric dating includes several types of Dating with differing degrees of accuracy. What these types of Absolute Dating have in common is that they determine date of an artifact in a scientific manner from intrinsic properties of the artifact itself. Radiometric dating; determination of age on a particular time scale, such as in calendar years before the present (B.P.) or in years A.D. or B.C. [Radioactive decay; Radiocarbon dating (e.g., radiocarbon [C-14], using for example either Liquid Scintillation Counting or Accelerator Mass Spectrometry.)]; Potassium-argon dating ([K-Ar] dating, note: so few radioactive carbon-14 isotopes remain in a sample more than 40,000 years old that it is difficult to measure the small number of particle emissions. The technique is therefore unsuitable for studying most of the Paleolithic period; fortunately, a related method based on an isotope of potassium allows the examination of early hominid developments beyond the range of radiocarbon.); Uranium series dating (Thorium-230 is a useful isotope because it has a half-life of 75,400 years. Although coral is the ideal sample material, calcite crystals contained in stalagmite may also be sampled, and this makes it suitable for dating early human activity in caves, anywhere between 5000 and 350,000 years ago. In any case, the precise relationship between the sample and an archaeological event or activity must always be established. Uranium series dating is frequently used in conjunction with ESR (electron spin resonance), for the latter may also be carried out on the kinds of samples typical of cave finds, such as teeth, shells and stalagmite calcite.); are types of absolute dating. Also methods using the effect of radioactivity on crystal structure such as: Thermoluminescence dating 'The most important material for TL is fired clay; hearths, kilns and especially pottery form an important part of the archaeological record in most parts of the world. Since pots are fired at a temperature well above that required to release all the electrons that have been trapped in their crystal lattices, the energy released in the laboratory today will have built up from the date of their firing. The older the pots, the more energy that should have accumulated Electron spin resonance ('ESR') has much in common with thermoluminescence, for both measure electrons that have become trapped in the crystal lattice of minerals. It differs from TL in the nature of suitable samples, which include teeth, shells and stalagmite calcite. ESR sample materials favour the study of the Paleolithic period, for stalagmites may be related to cave occupation, and fossil teeth from large mammals such as mammoths may provide effective dating; Fission-track dating, This method involves counting microscopic damage trails in minerals such as zircon, and glass, whether volcanic (e.g. obsidian) or of human manufacture. The trails are caused by fission fragments when the nucleus of uranium-238 splits during radioactive decay. Fission-track dating, along with potassium-argon, has also assisted in checking the age of volcanic deposits associated with early hominid remains in East Africa.

Absolutes - When used within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, the term "Absolutes" refers to Actions and/or Behaviours that may always be considered right or wrong, regardless of the circumstances.

Absolutism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined the view that certain kinds of actions are always wrong or are always obligatory, regardless of the context, circumstances and/or consequences. This ethical stance is often referred to as Moral Absolutism. Typical candidates for such absolute principles would be that it is always wrong to deliberately kill an innocent human being, or that one ought always to tell the truth or to keep one's promises. Absolutism is to be contrasted with consequentialism, the view that the rightness or wrongness of actions is determined solely by the extent to which they lead to good or bad consequences. A consequentialist could maintain, for example, that killing is normally wrong because it creates a great deal of grief and suffering and deprives the person who is killed of the future happiness which he/she would have experienced, but that since, in some cases, a refusal to kill may lead to even more suffering and loss of happiness, it may sometimes be right even to kill the innocent. Moral absolutism is linked to, but not synonymous with, a deontological position in ethics. The latter is the view that certain kinds of actions are intrinsically right or wrong - right or wrong simply because they are that kind of action - independently of the consequences to which they may lead. Killing the innocent, for instance, may be thought to be wrong just because it is the killing of the innocent, quite apart from the suffering and loss of happiness to which it will normally lead. A deontological position obviously contrasts with a consequentialist one, and may appear to be the same as absolutism, but in fact the two are distinct. One may hold that killing the innocent is intrinsically wrong, but also accept that in certain extreme circumstances the intrinsic wrongness of killing the innocent may itself be overridden by the appalling consequences which will occur if one refuses to kill. Absolutism builds on a deontological position but adds a stronger claim - not only is the action intrinsically wrong, but its wrongness can never be overridden by any consideration of consequences. criticism The absolutist position corresponds to common traditional views of morality, particularly of a religious kind - what might be called the 'Ten Commandments' idea of morality. Nevertheless, when detached from appeals to religious authority absolutism may appear to be vulnerable to rationalism. Is it not perverse to maintain that a certain kind of action is simply ruled out, even when the refusal to perform it will lead to even worse consequences? Why insist on never killing the innocent, for instance, if in certain circumstances a refusal to do so will mean that more innocent people will die? To be plausible, absolutism needs to be supplemented with some further distinction between different ways in which consequences may come about, such as the distinction between acts and omissions, or the doctrine of double effect. The absolutist who refuses to condone the killing of the innocent, even though more innocent people will die as a result of not doing so, can then say that though the loss of innocent lives is a terrible thing; nevertheless, letting innocent people die, or bringing about innocent deaths as an unintended side-effect, is not ruled out by an absolute prohibition in the same way as is the intentional killing of the innocent. Whether this is a sufficient defense of absolutism remains a matter for debate.

Absurdist Illumination Techniques and/or Traditions - Which include, but are not limited to: Bokononism, Discordianism, Erisian Traditions, Mummuism, SubGenius Traditions, and others (some Traditions fit here perhaps unintentionally). Master Hill's statement as to whether Discordianism is a elaborate joke disguised as a religion, or a religion disguised as an elaborate joke, seems eminently appropriate here in addition to the N'ta about Discordianism being a Mirror, "if a monkey looks in . . . " Also Mistress Slick's "Lead yourselves, you deserve it" and all the ways that can be taken.

Acadia -

Accreditation - Garden of Life considers Accreditation a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Accreditation may be characterized as being effectuated by the Formal Written and Archived Declaration acknowledging Spiritual Value of Persons, Places, Objects, Ideas, Systems and/or Processes. The Sacrament of Accreditation includes: the various preliminary phases of such process such as the suggestion and/or promotion of anything specific to be Accredited; the determination of Accreditation by the Tradition; and any announcement and/or archive of Formal Written Declaration of such determination. Accreditation must be delineated in the most precise wording possible. Frequently Accreditation is effectuated by issuing Statements of Accreditation as to the Spiritual Value of, for example various Cultural works and Artifacts: Literature, Visual Arts, Theatre, Poetry, Personality and so forth. Systems of categorization may be developed for processing these Statements, with an emphasis on clarity. The Establishment and Creation of Charters are a special case of Accreditation within a Tradition. The recognition of Individuals and/or any and/or all of their Contributions to the Æternal Conversation of Civilization is an important instance of Accreditation. For Accreditations revolving around Individuals, categories may be developed to simplify the process of referring to such Accreditations but should in no case be allowed to obscure the Essential Individuation of such Persons.

Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
Accreditation is defined (within the Temple) and characterized by the final stage of Formal Written and Archived Declaration acknowledging either an Attainment by Individual Members or Garden of Life's assessment of the Value, specifically Spiritual Value, of Persons, Places, Objects, Ideas, Systems and/or Processes. The Office of Accreditation processes both Accreditation of Ordination, Initiations and Classifications, and Certificates of Joining, Perfectioning, Passage, and/or other Celebration of Individual or Household character. The various preliminary phases of such process: suggestion and/or promotion of anything specific to be Accredited are included within the scope of the Sacrament. Garden of Life Accreditation must always be at the unanimous approval of the current Sitting Members of the Council of Elder Officiants, and must be delineated in specific language. Accreditation must always be in the Positive case of recommendation of Study or Perusal, and never in the Negative case of prohibition of Study or Perusal. Most generally this Sacrament is applied by issuing Statements of Accreditation as to the Spiritual Value of various Cultural works and Artifacts, for example: Literature, Visual Arts, Theatre, Poetry, Personality and Others. Systems of categorization may be developed for processing these Statements, with an emphasis on clarity. The Establishment and Creation of Charters are a special case of Accreditation, including specifically those for the Temple Offices, Glades, Orders, Enclaves, Guilds and Garden of Life Assemblies (in various Geographic Locales outside the originating area). The recognition of Individuals and/or any and/or all of their Contributions to the Æternal Conversation of Civilization is an important case of Accreditation. In these instances revolving around Individuals, categories may be developed to simplify the process of referring to such Accreditations but should in no case be allowed to obscure the Essential Individuation of such Persons. Accreditation of Garden of Life Doctrinal Statements, Position Papers, and/or Council of Elder Officiants Constative Utterances is integral to the performance of the Office of Accreditation. All Garden of Life originated publications shall be issued with Statements of Accreditation. Ordinarily the Accreditation Process consists of Announcement at a Temple Celebration, with a Certificate of Authentication entered into the Archives.

Act/Omission - When used within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this phrase "Act versus Omission", symbolizes one of the most debated points, i.e.: the difference between an Individual acting in order to accomplish something and refraining from acting whereby that thing is allowed to happen. The central discussion seems to revolve around culpability or degree of culpability. One simple example of this controversy is contained in the following scenario: if Wiley Coyote attempts to drop a safe on the RoadRunner, he is clearly to blame if it succeeds, and responsible for the intent regardless. If the RoadRunner stops and watches said safe eventually land on Wiley Coyote without warning him or doing anything to prevent it happening, he is not to blame, or not so much to blame, etc. (or is he?, some would say yes). Of course it's also complicated by the fact in this example, that the safe was originally dropped by the eventual victim of the harm, so does that make the RoadRunner as an observer: due even less blame, or is it irrelevant, or should we expect better behaviour from him? The moral distinction between acts and omissions amounts to the claim that there is a morally significant difference between a particular action and a corresponding failure to act, even though they have the same outcomes. Thus, it is said that there is a moral difference between, for example, lying and not telling the truth, hindering and failing to help, and between killing and letting die, even though, in each case, the consequences of the action and the omission may be the same. There is undoubtedly some obscurity about the distinction. Understanding it is complicated by the somewhat untidy concept of an omission. Roughly speaking, an omission of mine may be said to occur when I fail to do something which I might reasonably have been expected to do. Such an omission may or may not result in the same end result as if the Individual committed the specified Act themselves. Those who hold that Acts are more basic than Omissions are not necessarily asserting that Omissions do not engage ethical decisions but rather assert that there are prima-facie differences in gravity in the moral logic of the two areas, i.e. that cases of positive commission require reasons that are morally weightier than, and perhaps different in kind from, those that would justify an omission. Thus not killing and not lying, for example, are held to be morally more basic than saving lives and telling the truth, even though the latter are also a matter of moral duty. As a corner-stone of deontological ethics, the acts-omissions distinction is vulnerable to the usual criticisms by consequentialism and its proponents. But some of these criticisms are misguided: utilitarian dismissals of the distinction are often based on the idea that it amounts to, for instance, a denial of the duty to save life. Yet one does not have to refute the distinction to establish the moral duty to save lives. If we can be held just as responsible for the things we fail to do as for the things we do, we need not deny what the distinction asserts - that there is a difference between the moral ground we should be able to take for granted and the moral ground we have to struggle continuously to gain.

Active Imagination - When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology a therapeutic technique which allows unconscious contents to be exposed in a waking state. It is like "dreaming with open eyes", but unlike the passivity of dreams, it demands the active participation of the individual. The images which arise may be elaborated through artistic and self-expressive mediums such as painting.

Acultomancy - A type of divination using needles A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Ad Hominem Argument - (argument against the person) In the Logic subsection of the field of Philosophy, an ad hominem argument is the informal fallacy of supposing that a proposition should be denied because of some disqualifying feature of the person who affirms it. This fallacy is the mirror image of the appeal to authority. In its abusive form, ad hominem is a direct (and often inflammatory) attack on the appearance, character, or personality of the individual. Example: "Jeremy claims that Susan was at the party, but since Jeremy is the kind of person who has to ride to work on the city bus, it must be false that she was there." A circumstantial ad hominem accuses the person of having an alternative motive for defending the proposition or points out its inconsistency with the person's other views. Tu quo que (the "so do you" fallacy) uses a similar method in response to criticism of a position already held.

Adamites - A MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents as such, and holding the belief that they could achieve the primal purity of Adam and Eve as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Adamite congregations have been reported at least as far back as the 2nd century ce. Adamites ordinarily dispensed with marriage (in some cases in favor of promiscuous sex) and clothing (at least at their communal meetings, often called by them: 'Paradises'). Reports of Adamite congregates exist as recently as the 19th century ce but there have been no recent public appearances. http://www.adherents.com

Adept -

Ægis - A variant spelling of a word with a specific meaning of The Protection and Defense of Approval, the favorable conditions under which the Activity is to be carried out, and the Provision of Leadership and Guidance toward the specific goals of the Activity; in relation to the Body to which such referral is made of the Activity being under the Ægis of. May also be the Physical Representation of such, i.e. a Seal, Document or any other representation, whatsoever, determined by the Body providing the Ægis to which referral is made.

Ægyptian - A variant spelling of a word with a specific meaning of coming from or relating to the Culture usually characterized as Ancient, Early Dynastic and/or Pre-Dynastic Egyptian.

Ægyptian Book of the Dead - (see The Book of Shadowing Forth by Day)

Ægyptian Collar - When the term Ægyptian Collar is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to ceremonial jewelry of the design created on the banks of the Nile consisting of specific and complex symbology patterning both the collar (which extended from the neck to the shoulder edge and made a half circle when viewed from the front) and in the counterweight which both in pattern and design was filled with symbol. Laid out flat the collar usually looks like ~three quarters of a circle, with a neck hole in the middle and the counterweight in the missing wedge of the circle. It could display and assert any claims or intent in any combination for the specific individual, the group they represented and/or the exact event for which it was worn. It is similar to the Ægyptian Wings in some uses.

Ægyptian Wings - When the term Ægyptian Wings is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to ceremonial artefact of the design created on the banks of the Nile consisting of specific and complex symbology patterning on the actual Wings and on the manner of wearing them. When worn by the Priestesses, Priests and/or Royalty the Wings could display and assert any claims or intent in any combination for the specific individual, the group they represented and/or the exact event for which they were worn. It is similar to the Ægyptian Collar in some uses.

ÆgyptoHellene - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding a blending of AElig;gyptian and Hellenic teachings, often drawing on the Ptolemaic period of AElig;gyptian history as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

ÆgyptoSumerianCanaanite - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

ÆgyptoTranscendentalist - A MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents as such, and holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Aeon - (see )

Aeromancy - A type of divination by atmospheric conditions, in some cases forecasting changes in the weather. Related to: austromancy, ceraunoscopy, chaomancy, and meteormancy A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Æstheticist - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that holds that Beauty is the Divine.

Æsthetics - The study of Beauty and what constitutes the Beautiful (as a sub-discipline of Philosophy). The study of beauty and feeling. Æsthetics is perhaps the least rigorous of the disciplines, because it is harder to come to clear conclusions about things. Included in Æsthetics is the investigation of art, and what art should or should not be, and what things are art. But it is also about aesthetic experiences, such as the awe we feel when exposed to the rare, the impressive, the beautiful, and even the grotesque. Why do we choose chocolate ice cream over strawberry? Why do we choose a Rembrandt painting over a schoolchild's painting? What impact does aesthetic experiences have on our lives, and is it useful?

Affinity - degree of liking or affection or lack of it. Affinity is a tolerance of distance. A great affinity would be a tolerance of or liking of close proximity. A lack of affinity would be an intolerance of or dislike of close proximity. Affinity is one of the components of understanding. When the word implies a mutual relationship or attraction, it is normally followed by between or with: the affinity between Britain and most of her former colonies; Beckett...stresses that he wrote the little book on order, not out of any deep affinity with Proust-M. Esslin, 1980. If the feeling, etc., is one-sided, other words (sympathy, affection, feeling, etc.) are normally called on and are followed by for. Affinity for (art, Christianity, controversy, politics, etc.), i.e. a liking for such things, is a more reluctant choice but is occasionally found (Shevek felt a kind of affinity for the man-U. Le Guin, 1974). It is more common in scientific work: Aluminum, ferromanganese or ferrosilicon is added to the molten metal...to provide material with a higher affinity for oxygen than the carbon-E. P. Degarmo, 1984

Affirmation of Classification - Garden of Life considers Affirmation of Classification a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Affirmation of Classification may be that it is an acknowledgment that a particular Individual Aspirant has attained a specific state recognized by that Tradition as having relevance to Spiritual Growth, including various types of Initiations. True Achievement of Levels of Initiation occurs within the Individual, however, a Tradition may Affirm and Certify the Accomplished Fact. The Affirmation of Classification usually includes a specifically designed Initiatory Working to indicate the Tradition's Affirmation that the Individual has attained a specific goal in Consciousness Development. Formal Written Declaration of a Tradition's Affirmation of Classification for an Individual may be issued and/or archived, often upon completion of a Working acknowledging such.

Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
Formal Written and Archived Declaration of Extant Fact, often upon completion of a specifically designed Initiatory Working to indicate the Temples Affirmation that an Individual has attained a specific goal in Consciousness Development. Within the Doctrine of Garden of Life is the Belief that True Achievement of Levels of Initiation occurs within the Individual, however, the Temple does Affirm and Certify the Accomplished Fact. The Council of Elder Officiants will oversee the Structuring of Initiation Ceremonies for each of the Twenty-Three levels recognized by Garden of Life. The Office of Accreditation shall have the responsibility for considering and recommending requests for Initiations. The Council of Elder Officiants shall have the power to grant requests and/or nominations for an Individual to receive any of the Initiations and Affirm and Certify such Accomplishment. The Office of the Archives and the will keep copies of Members Initiation Certificates in their respective members files.

Affirmation of Ordination - Garden of Life considers Affirmation of Ordination a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Affirmation of Ordination may be that it is an acknowledgment that a particular Individual Aspirant is Authorized to perform any combination of Officiant functions within that Tradition. For example: to Officiate at the Tradition's Celebrations, Workings and/or Functions; to Administer the Tradition's Sacraments that require or utilize Officiation; and to perform any and/or all of the other functions, duties, rights, responsibilities and/or operations recommended by that Tradition. The Affirmation of Ordination usually includes a specifically designed Working to indicate the Tradition's Affirmation of Ordination of that Individual as an Officiant, often as a Celebratory Circle. True Ordination occurs within the Individual, however, a Tradition may Affirm and Certify the Accomplished Fact. Formal Written Declaration of a Tradition's Affirmation of Ordination for an Individual may be issued and/or archived, often upon completion of a Working acknowledging such.

Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
Formal Written and Archived Declaration of Extant Fact, often upon completion of a specifically designed Working to indicate the Temples Affirmation that an Individual Aspirant is Authorized to Officiate at Garden of Life Celebrations, Workings and/or Functions; to Administer Garden of Life Sacraments that require an Officiant and to perform any and/or all of the other functions, duties, rights, responsibilities and/or operations of an Officiant of Garden of Life. Within the Doctrine of Garden of Life is the Belief that True Ordination occurs within the Individual, however, the Temple does Affirm and Certify the Accomplished Fact.

Affirmations -

African Diasporic - [A somewhat artificial grouping, (but perhaps helpful as a convenience in grouping for survey purposes) These cultures did have things in common but were quite distinct in fact even within small geographical areas] It is possible to refer to a regional grouping of MetaPhysical Orientations as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, especially if strong traditions that are specific to the region are important to those groups. African Diasporic refers in particular to those Traditions and/or Cultures that developed their strong identifying characteristics as they left the African continent on their way to their eventual main areas of influence.

African Indigenous - [A somewhat artificial grouping, (but perhaps helpful as a convenience in grouping for survey purposes) These cultures did have things in common but were quite distinct in fact even within small geographical areas] It is possible to refer to a regional grouping of MetaPhysical Orientations as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, especially if strong traditions that are specific to the region are important to those groups. African Indigenous refers in particular to those Traditions and/or Cultures whose strong identifying characteristics were developed in place in Africa regardless of whether later exported or not.

Agnostic - A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that stipulates that it is not possible to know anything about the Divine, including whether it exists or not. The word comes from the Greek, agnostos for "unknowable". Agnosticism asserts that it is impossible to know whether there are Deities or anything beyond physical/material phenomena. It thus differs from all Theisms and/or Deisms which postulate Deities and supernatural phenomena as well as differing from Atheism which asserts that Deities and supernatural phenomena do not exist.

Ahimsa - The Yama that is called Ahimsa is categorized as non-violence, obviously this is an oversimplification but a useful one for metaphysical study. The Yamas are one of the Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga from the traditions of the Indus Valley. The Yamas or restraints (Don'ts) are divided into five moral injunctions, aimed at destroying the lower nature. They should all be practiced and developed by the letter but also more importantly in the spirit. They should all be practiced in word, thought and deed. The other four of the five Yamas are:
Satyam or non-lying
Brahmacharya or non-excess in all things (control of all senses).
Asteya or non-stealing
Aparigraha or non-covetousness

Ailuromancy - A type of divination by observation of the appearance and/or movement of cats A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Akasha or Akasa - When the term Akasha or Akasa is used in the field of Spiritual, MetaPhysical and/or Magickal philosophy it generally refers to the Fifth Element as Spirit.

Akashic Records - When the term Akashic Records is used in the field of Spiritual, MetaPhysical and/or Magickal philosophy it generally refers to the concept that events are recorded in Eternity in some manner and that it is possible for individuals to access this Hall of Records in order to learn from events that happened in a distant time.

Akrasia (Choice Immolation) - The term akrasia comes primarily from the studies of Socratic Philosophy. Socrates questioned whether one could ever deliberately, when able to choose among courses of action (praxiologies), choose one which would damage (and/or specifically, do the most damage to) their goals, regardless of the tendency of being overcome by any or any combination of primary passions and/or emotions: anger, fear, pleasure, etc. - and thus whether akrasia could in fact occur. Obviously it is possible theoretically. Socrates' view was in reference to Individuals as deliberate agents (able to think about what they do, comprehensively before acting) and was that such persons must consider that what they are doing best fits their objectives (their Good). If forced (by others or incapacity on their part, by effect of physical deficiency or uncontrolled passions) to an action, they would not be acting deliberately. What a thinking and responsible Individual does is what she/he considers will be the best way to achieve her/his Good. The apparent conflict between reason and passion is viewed as illegitimate: passions may lead to erratic determinations about what is best, and may not even reference the issue of determining the Good; knowledge is viewed as a better guide to determining actions. These ideas put the problem into the framework of "how can we act against what reason dictates?" and "how can we act against our view of what we take as Good?" Socrates answered that we cannot, that even if we do that which is generally condemned as unacceptable by society or even seriously self-destructive, it indicates that we have decided that such actions are the best way to achieve our purposes and is therefore our "Good". Later philosophers have had wildly conflicting views on the subject, and some have confused it with or lumped it in with Aberrantism, however, if akratic behaviour is indeed possible, it is far different in kind from Aberrantism as an Ethical stance.

Akraticism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is most damaging to what one considers to be the "Good".

Alchemy - A Tradition and/or School of Magick which in a surface interpretation of the texts, seems to be focused on the transmutation of base metals into precious metals (e.g.: converting lead to gold). The ultimate goal of the Alchemist is to transform the chaotic primordial First Matter (the Khem) into perfection; a goal that is accomplished through spiritual enlightenment. It may be that the practice actually has much in common with the Eastern Tantric schools but in a Western context, many of the operations are described in terms of transformation of base metal into precious metal as code for various Sexual Magick operations. The word (and the practice) has roots in Greek: chemeia, Ægyptian, khemeia, "the preparation of black ore, in Arabic, al kimya and probably in other languages.

Alectormancy - A type of divination using the sacrifice of a rooster A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Alectryomancy - A type of divination using the eating patterns of chickens, particularly by watching a rooster gather corn kernels, in some cases marked kernels A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Aleuromancy - A type of divination using flour or meal, in some cases involving slips of paper baked into dough balls, i.e.: fortune cookies A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Alexandrian Wicca - A MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents as such, and holding the writings and teachings of Alexander and/or Maxine Sanders and/or interpolation thereon, and/or the Tradition that has arisen from such as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Alexandrian Wicca is similar to Gardnerian Wicca but with more inclusion of what is considered ceremonial magick including some Qabalistic forms and methodologies. Covens work skyclad. The eight Sabbats are observed and the Goddess and God are revered. Alexandrian Wiccans are considered to be Traditional Witches who trace their line of initiatory descent from Alex and Maxine Sanders, through a line of Alexandrian High Priests and High Priestesses, who follow the Alexandrian Book of Shadows, and who practice the Alexandrian Tradition of Wicca. Alexander Sanders was much more open to media coverage than most Wiccan and/or Pagan leaders. This led to his being referred to (by the media) as the "King of Witches". There was strong opposition to this "openbook" attitude toward the press from many traditional practitionors both of Wicca and other Pagan paths, mostly that this openness with the media was profaning the mysteries. Others of the community felt that it was simply for the notoriety. Whatever his motivation, the publicity certainly made people aware of his existence; he and Maxine initiated a great many people in the 1960s and 1970s, including Stewart Farrar and Janet Owen. Alexandrian covens focus strongly upon training, which includes areas more generally associated with ceremonial magic, such as Qabalah, Angelic Magic, and Enochian. The typical Alexandrian coven has a hierarchical structure, and generally meets weekly, or at least on Full Moons, New Moons and Festivals. Most Alexandrian covens will allow non-initiates to attend circles, usually as a "neophyte", who undergoes basic training in circle craft, and completes a number of projects, prior to being accepted by the coven for initiation to 1st degree. Some, though not all, Alexandrian covens will also welcome non-initiated "guests" at certain meetings.

Algard Wicca - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the combination of Gardnerian and Alexandrian Wicca traditions, as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. This Wiccan tradition was founded in 1972 by Mary Nesnick, an American who was initiated into both Gardnerian and Alexandrian traditions. It brings together both Gardnerian and Alexandrian teachings under a single banner.

"All that May Be" Veil - When the term "All that May Be" Veil is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to the Cerulean Blue Veil of the Mind and all that resembles it.

Allegorical - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, that utilizes various forms of reenactments of and/or allusion to archetypal patterns, spiritual events and/or stories as a means of effectuating the spiritual development of the participants. Allegorical Interpretative Forms and Techniques often include Sacred Theatre.

Allegorical Interpretive - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, that utilizes various forms of reenactments of archetypal spiritual events and/or stories as a means of effectuating the spiritual development of the participants. Allegorical Interpretative Forms and Techniques often include Sacred Theatre.

Allegory - Allegory is a type of written, oral and/or other type of expressive communication intended to convey truths about Human conduct and/or the Human condition, especially spiritual information in a manner which transcends the literal meanings within the works. Ordinarily allegories contain a story and/or interlocking stories about fictional, "larger than life" characters and their actions and/or failures to act, with the intent of allowing and encouraging the recipients of these communications to draw conclusions which relate either directly or indirectly to their lives and decisions that they have to make.

Alphitomancy - A type of divination using barley grains or meal, in some cases using loaves or cakes made of wheat or barley flour A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

AlpineHorn - When the term AlpineHorn is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same.

Altar - When the term Altar is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a type of table or raised area which is used in Magickal and/or Spiritual Workings to hold and allow a space for working with some of the Magickal Implements, Sacred Objects, Ceremonial Tools and/or Foci that are to be used in any given Working. Altars are generally specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same. Altars may vary from simple personal Altars which are no more than a shelf to elaborate multitiered structures in some cases.

Altar Cloths and Coverings - When the term Altar Cloth and/or Covering is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to an item which is the first layer placed on an Altar which is to be used in Magickal and/or Spiritual Workings, specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same. It is a convenient way to change and add patterns, symbols and so forth appropriate to a particular Working, without restructuring the Altar itself, which in many traditions is a simple basic type structure, often a solid coloured double-cube. Cloth is the most frequent, but any material may be used, including metals, pottery, woods and so forth, in some cases the material itself may be chosen for a resonance with the Working to be performed, textural, colour, or any other attribute.

Altered States - States of sentient consciousness other than the normal Waking Conscious State of the Dreaming State, with the further implication that there has been intent to, and actions toward the goal of Altering the State of Consciousess, although spontaneous Altered States of consciousness are not unknown. Hypnosis induces an Altered State, the Hynogogic State is a spontaneous Altered State of Consciousness. In some Traditions, Chanting, Singing and/or Dance is used to Alter the State of Consciousness for a particular Working. Various vegetal compounds, ingested or not have been used to Alter the State of Consciousness.

Altruism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is thought to be for the good of others, in many cases at expense to the Individual's good.

Altruism/Egoism dichotomy- Does morality require a person to act for the good of others, or can its requirements be consistently seen as means to self-fulfilment for the moral agent? If the latter, some egoists will argue that only the thought of benefit or gratification to myself can in any case motivate me to action (psychological egoism); others, 'ethical egoists', claim that although I could aim at the good of another, the moral life is in fact the life that maximizes good-for-me, if not always in the shorter term, then reliably over a lifetime. It is a highly challengeable - indeed unconvincing - claim: situations arise, e.g. when some virtually undetectable injustice offers a person great reward and no deterrents. On such a theory, not even conscience would deter. Central to the very notion of a moral imperative is the idea that it has authority to override all other considerations, self-interest notably among them, and to rule out the thought of calculating and quantifying the balance for and against advantage to self on particular occasions of moral obligation. Again, if as an egoist I propose an ethical theory that everyone should understand the object of moral endeavour to be the pursuit of his or her individual good, the proposing of such a universal policy must itself conflict with my own pursuit of my individual good. I cannot really want others to attend to their good, as distinct from my own! But if I simply assert, as a personal manifesto (or, indeed, write it secretly in my diary), 'I am going to pursue my own fulfilment only, and I understand morality as precisely a means to that' - then I achieve consistency - but express no public moral theory. It is not true that everything we can be said to 'want' or 'desire' is an enhancement or fulfilment of the self. We may want to give way to irrational rage or to wayward sexual desire, to hurt another or indeed to help another - without manifesting 'self-love' in any of these instances. My rage or aggression may in fact be self-destructive. The beginning of altruism is the realization that not all good and bad are good-for-me and bad-for-me: that certain others - my close friends, say - have joys and sufferings distinct from mine, but for which I have a sympathetic concern - and for their sake, not my own. I may then acknowledge that others beyond the small circle of my friends are not fundamentally different - and so reach the belief that there are objective goods and bads as such. As one self among the others I cannot claim special privileges simply for being the individual that I am! If it is neither impossible nor irrational to act simply for the sake of another, the occurrence of satisfaction or 'good conscience' when we have done so is not sufficient ground for the egoist to claim that it was only for these 'rewards' that the acts were performed. Nor on the other hand does the possibility of altruism mean that it is a constant moral necessity: an altruist can allow that in most circumstances I can act far more effectively on my own behalf than can any other person. A simple but crucial step separates a broken-backed ethical egoism from a minimally acceptable and consistent moral theory. It involves the recognition of others as more than instrumental to my fulfilment. I may promote my own interests and personal fulfilment, so long as I do not encroach upon the pursuit by others of their fulfilment. That is to recognize other persons as limits to my action: altruism may, of course, go beyond that in seeking positively to advance their good.

Alveromancy - A type of divination using sounds, particularly naturally occurring sounds A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Amarapura (Sri Lankan or Ceylonese) Buddhism - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Amarapura Buddhism (and for convenience of categorization Myanmar Buddhism and/or Sinhala Buddhism as well) is the variety of Buddhism that developed in Ceylon, the name of which is now Sri Lanka. There is a fairly wide concensus of belief that Theravada Buddhism originated in Sri Lanka, and it is Sri Lanka that transmitted the Paali Tripitaka, as well as numerous commentaries, synopses, chronicles, and grammars of extreme importance to all Traditions of Buddhism. The legend in the Diipavamsa and other chronicles that the Buddha visited the land which is now Sri Lanka three times during his lifetime, is widely believed in present day Sri Lanka. Scholarship had developed in all fields: Pali grammar, the Vinaya, the Suttanta, and the Abhidhamma. Myanmar had, after a long period of development, become the custodian of Buddhism. Even today, Sri Lanka possesses three schools, the Amarapura Nikaya, the Siyama Nikaya (Thai school), and the Ramanna Nikaya. Some postulate that there is no monolithic Buddhism as such, but that there are Buddhisms such as Sinhala Buddhism or more precisely Sinhala Theravada Buddhism, Siam or Thai Buddhism, Myanmar or Amarapura Buddhism, and so forth. The complete Listing on Amarapura Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)

Ambiance - When the term Ambiance [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences similar to Twilight of the Place, key number 29] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to the mood felt in any given space in which a Sacred Space is to be established, including but not limited to temperature, lighting and decor.

Ambulomancy - A type of divination using walking, often in a particular pattern, possibly related to gyromancy A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

American Eclectic Wicca - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the published works of Scott Cunningham and StarHawk as primary or critical parameters, that views all or many things as having animating spirits. American Eclectic Wiccans emphasize spontaneity and intuitive understanding of the Mysteries. Because they downplay, or discarded, the importance of Oaths, Initiations, Lineage, and Tradition many Traditional Wiccans object to these groups using the name Wicca, and believe they should be called American Eclectic Witchcraft.

American Traditional Wicca - American Traditional Wiccan groups have no initiatory connection to Gardner or Sanders, but have based their rituals and practices on what has been published about the Gardnerian, Alexandrian and/or other Wiccan Traditions; they therefore follow a Wiccan practice based upon one or more prior Wiccan Traditions without having their initiatory lineage.

American Wicca - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding Gardnerian Wicca teachings with additional material supplied by Ed Fitch and other founders of the Tradition as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. American Wicca is often considered an offshoot of Gardnerian Wicca, as it was founded by Ed Fitch and several Southern Californian Gardnerians in the late 1970's. The tradition includes Gardnerian material and additional material supplied by the founders. Also known as Mohsian Wicca.

AmerIndian-(Northern-Central-Southern) - A constructed word referring to the Indigenous Cultures of the Americas to differentiate them from the Cultures of the Indian SubContinent.

Amethystine Wicca - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding core concepts from the Order of the Garter and the Order of the Royal Oak, with supplementary beliefs derived from Hermetic Traditions as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. Founded in 1968 by Lady Amethyst, Amethystine Wicca is dedicated to preserving old traditions in addition to nurturing a new generation of enlightened ones. Teaches by example in daily life, at home and at work, as well as when among our own. Amethystine Wiccans wish to be known through their work and deeds, and believe in a strict code of ethics exemplified by one's actions and lives by the Wiccan Rede.

Amniomancy - A type of divination by examining afterbirth, in some cases of future luck by the presence of a caul A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Amplification - When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology a method of interpretation in which the analyst assists the patient to connect an image in a dream or fantasy with universal imagery. The personal images are amplified by comparison with similar images and motifs found in myths and fairy-tales. By engaging in this process, a synthesis of consciousness and the unconscious, and of personal and collective, is attained. The individual is reconnected with the archetype expressed through the image and the unconscious content is made explicit.

Amulet - When the term Amulet is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to any, ordinarily small, ordinarily representational object that represents any and/or any combination of Magickal and/or Spiritual concepts, forces and/or ideas. specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same.

Analogeticism- When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the teachings of Ammonius Saccas, especially in reference to the use of analogy and correspondence in the interpretation of myths and symbolic legends as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Analogy - a process of reasoning in which two entities that share some similarities are assumed to share others; the basis of most archaeological interpretation. For example, ethnographic analogy involves the use of ethnographic information to interpret archaeological data.

Analytical Psychology - Jung coined this term as early as 1913 to distinguish his approach from Freud's psychoanalysis.

Anatolian (Phrygian, Other) - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents which holds teachings originating in Anatolia, now known as Turkey and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Anazazi - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding spiritual concepts that originated in the Anazazi cultures in Archaic America as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Ancestor Reverence (also referred to as Ancestor Worship, in more extreme cases) - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, Ancestor Reverence is the belief and the behaviours associated with such belief, asserting the continued existence of the deceased and that the deceased exert influence upon the living descendants. The practices range from simple respect for the deceased ancestors to quite complex and specific rituals, depending on the Tradition. Descendants have an obligation to support their ancestors through their actions and reverence. Ancestor Reverence is an extremely important and identifying characteristic inherent in some religions, for instance: Shintoism.

Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria - The Order of the Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria was openly formed on May 1, 1776, ostensibly by Adam Weishaupt (1748 - 1830), a professor of law at the University of Ingolstadt in Bavaria. Whether it was a manifestation of "The Illuminati" is in much dispute, but seems more likely than not. Weishaupt's stated goal was to build a just community within a corrupt society and to modernize Germany through the discipline of a secret society. During its short visible life, the order actually did try to realize its political goals through subterfuge, secrecy, and conspiracy. While the Freemasons were unjustly accused of having a secret agenda known only to the highest level of initiates, the Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria really did operate this way, with the rank and file aware only of mundane, general goals, and the true secrets kept by the 'superieurs inconnus.' In addition, the Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria attempted to form a group of interlocking organizations by infiltrating other organizations, such as the masons. In June, 1784, the Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria were suppressed; three years later they appeared to be completely destroyed. Today, the Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria live on in modern conspiracy theories, often referred to as "The Illuminati"(of which they were likely only a small operation of that organization, perhaps a test case for the organization's coming out in the open) - they are the prototype of the secret society, with their 'double doctrine' or secret agenda, mysterious rituals, and long-term political goals. The fact of their suppression only strengthens the various conspiracy theories, as they are said to have gone underground. The Illuminati are a favorite target of right-wing conspiracy theorists, from the 'militia movement' to the John Birch Society and fundamentalist Christians. See Illuminism and The Illuminati listings as well.

Angles Tradition - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

AngloSaxon - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Animalism - When considered as a MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, Animalism is the doctrine that humanity has only animal nature, however complex and sophisticated it may become, with no soul or spiritual quality.

Animism - A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that views all or many things as having animating spirits and/or that each part of Nature has its own divine animating spirit.

Anklets - When the term Anklets is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same.

Annointment - Garden of Life considers Annointment a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Annointment may be an Act and/or Process performed by any Celebrant upon Her/Himself or any other Celebrant with the intent of acknowledging the Divine Essence within the Individual. In a Celebratory Working such Acts ordinarily consist of the placing of a Consecrated Oil or other Consecrated substance on another Celebrant or Her/His self, while making silent or verbal Affirmations and/or Symbolic Gestures, which have become Sacred to a Tradition.

Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
an Act performed by any Celebrant upon Her/Himself or any other Celebrant with the intent of acknowledging the Divine Essence within the Individual. In a Celebratory Working such Acts ordinarily consist of the placing of a Consecrated Oil or other Consecrated substance on another Celebrant's Forehead or Her/His own, while making silent or verbal Affirmations and may include various Symbolic Gestures, which have become Sacred to our Tradition. Annointment may also be performed on any of the other power points on or about the physical body. Annointment is considered in the Temple context to have an effect of encouraging the component parts of the Individual to increase alignment.

Anthomancy - A type of divination using flowers A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Anthracomancy - A type of divination using burning coals A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Anthropology - the study of humanity from a comprehensive, holistic approach; the study of humankind from the earliest times to the present, including the four subfields: physical anthropology, archaeology, socio-cultural anthropology and linguistics.

Anthroposophy- (see the Anthroposophical Society)

AntiFoundationalist - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

Anubis Wand - When the term Anubis Wand is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a type of Wand or Staff, first codified in predynastic Ægypt, generally about shoulder height with an Anubis head on one end and a crescent on the other end, set so that if the Wand is turned upsidedown the crescent makes a cup. It was emblematic of Life/Death dichotomy issues.

Aorist - An Undefined Person, Place, Item, Concept, Image, Position and/or anything else, whatsoever, that exists as a subset of that which can or may be defined, but is not currently defined.

Apantomancy - A type of divination using objects at hand A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Aparigraha - The Yama that is called Aparigraha is categorized as non-covetousness, obviously this is an oversimplification but a useful one for metaphysical study. The Yamas are one of the Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga from the traditions of the Indus Valley. The Yamas or restraints (Don'ts) are divided into five moral injunctions, aimed at destroying the lower nature. They should all be practiced and developed by the letter but also more importantly in the spirit. They should all be practiced in word, thought and deed. The other four of the five Yamas are:
Ahimsa or non-violence
Satyam or non-lying
Brahmacharya or non-excess in all things (control of all senses).
Asteya or non-stealing

Apocalyptic - Referring to the belief that the end of the world, as we know it, is imminent. When people enter apocalyptic time, their belief leads them to dramatic changes in behavior. Apocalyptic time results from religious or secular prophecy: Y2K survivalists have entered apocalyptic time.

Apollonian - In religious studies, describes "solar- or mind-oriented" spirituality and/or ecstatic states that emphasize the conceptual and intellectual aspects (profound calm or abstraction of Mind, harmonious, measured and/or balanced), and the liberating of the psyche from the limitations of mundane consciousness, to explore the essence of the individual (named for Apollo, the Greek God of the sun and music)

Apollonian - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Aposterioricism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

ApotheoTheism - A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that postulates Individual Attainment of Personal Divinity.

Appalachian Granny Magic Tradition - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding core concepts imported to Appalachia from Irish and Scottish Magickal Traditions blended with a dash of the local tradition of the Tsalagi (Now, called the Cherokee Indians.) as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. The Appalachian Granny Magic Tradition of Witchcraft is one that is only recently being heard of. Though the tradition is a very old one, dating all the way back to the first settlers of the magical Appalachian Mountains who came over from Scotland and Ireland in the 1700's. They brought along their even older Irish and Scottish Magical Traditions with them. Those two 'old world' Traditions were then blended with a dash of the local tradition of the Tsalagi (Now, called the Cherokee Indians.) The recipe for the Appalachian Granny Magic Tradition was then complete, though this potion simmered on a low boil for many generations before anyone dubbed it with the name, 'Appalachian Granny Magic.' The Witches of the Appalachian Mountains called themselves 'Water Witches' and/or 'Witch Doctors' depending upon whether they were personally more gifted in healing, midwifery and such realms of magic, or if they were more in tune with dowsing for water, lay lines, energy vortexes and the making of charms and potions. Often a Practitioner called themselves by both titles if they were so diverse in their Magical practices. The Appalachian Granny Magic Tradition, like many of the older ones, was passed on from parents to their children for many generations, and generally was not 'taught' outside of the individual family structures. Because of the rural and secluded nature of the Appalachian community, the old customs, wisdom, and practices were not as often lost, forgotten, or 'modernized' as the 'old world' traditions that came over to other, more urban areas of the 'new world.' Therefore, one will often find that ancient Irish or Scottish songs, rhymes, dances, recipes, crafts, and 'The Craft,' are more accurately preserved in Appalachia than even in Ireland or Scotland. Many of these old Scot/Irish traditions, as well as the Tsalagi traditions, both magical and mundane, were carried on in Appalachia until modern times. The people of the mountains still relied upon Mother Nature in a way, that 'city folk' did not anymore. The fertility of the crops, the livestock, and of the people themselves was as paramount to the Appalachians of 1900 as it was to the early American colonists in the 1600's. Therefore, fertility, and the worship of Mother Nature, Jack frost, Father Winter, Chloe, Spider Grandmother, Demeter, and such varied deities continued in the Appalachian region, staying a current part of the people's faith, rather than becoming a mythic memory as such 'nature worship' did elsewhere. In fact, we still see "Lady Plenty and Lady Liberty" Goddess of the harvest, with cornucopia in hand, and Goddess of freedom, on the official North Carolina State seal. Amazingly, even the terms "Witch", "Witchcraft", "spells", "charms" and such never became taboo in the modern Appalachian culture. Nearly every mountain top and 'holler' community had their local 'Witch' who was openly called such, as a title of honor, not as a insult or a charge of crime, as the term came to be used in other more urban American cultures of the seventeen, eighteen and nineteen hundreds.

Apports - the paranormal and otherwise inexplicable production or transporting of material objects, as for instance in a seance.

Apron - When the term Apron [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 8] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same.

Aquamancy - A type of divination by water A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Aquarian Tabernacle Church (ATC)- When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents which holds teachings of a positive, life-affirming spirituality that is a non-dualist, non-racist, non-sexist, non-exclusivist, bi-polar, and ecologically oriented and is a faith dedicated to the preservation of Holy Mother Earth, the revival of the worship of The Old Gods in a modern context, the achievement of the fullest of human potentials and the creation of a peaceful world of love, freedom, health and prosperity for all sentient beings as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. Aquarian Tabernacle Church is a Wiccan church founded in 1979 by Pete "Pathfinder" Davis as a coven dedicated to providing religious services and support to the larger Wiccan community. The ATC became the first Wiccan church with full legal status and recognition by the governments of three nations: Canada, Australia, and the U.S.A. An American Tradition of Wicca based on English Traditional Wicca. It is focused on service to the larger Wiccan and Pagan community through open worship gatherings. The church is based in Index, WA, where it owns a Retreat House as well as an outdoor sanctuary with a ring of standing menhirs set in an old growth cedar forest. The ATC is a fully tax exempt legal Wiccan church in the USA, Canada and Australia, with approximately 30 congregations in these countries as of 1997. ATC provides regular, open worship circles and also sponsors several annual festivals

Ár nDraíocht Féin ('Our Own Druidism')- When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents which holds teachings integrating religion with alternate healing arts, ecology-consciousness, psychic development and artistic expression as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Ár nDraíocht Féin is an American based NeoPagan Druid Fellowship founded in 1983 by P.E.I. (Isaac) Bonewits, former Archdruid of several groves in the Reformed Druids of North America. It has no direct links to the ancient Druids but is a reconstruction of Druidic and Indo-European pagan rituals and religions. Ár nDraíocht Féin is organized in groves, many of them named after trees. They have eight seasonal High Days (celebrated on the same dates as the Sabbats) and they conduct regular study and discussion groups in addition to a wide range of artistic activities.

Arachnomancy - A type of divination using the observation of the appearance and/or movements of spiders A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Arcadia -

Arcadian Wicca - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the Celebration of the Mysteries of the Horned God as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Arcadian Wicca Covens are open to both men and women.

Archetypal Construction - A process involving the delineation of Fundamental Prime Qualities and/or Parts of this Cosmos in a MythoPoetic Fashion; with intense attention paid to accuracy of representation and continuity of process; for the purpose of Creating New or ReDefined Archetypes.

Archetypes - inherited, innate and a priori modes of perception, linked to the instincts, which regulate perception itself. The archetypes are primordial ideas, common to all mankind, and they express only through archetypal images. They are charged with emotion and function autonomously from the unconscious.

Arctic (Inuit, Eskimo, Other) - [A somewhat artificial grouping, (but perhaps helpful as a convenience in grouping for survey purposes ) These cultures did have things in common but were quite distinct in fact even within small geographical areas] It is possible to refer to a regional grouping of MetaPhysical Orientations as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, especially if strong traditions that are specific to the region are important to those groups. Arctic refers in particular to those Traditions and/or whose strong identifying characteristics were developed in place in the Arctic regardless of whether later exported or not.

Aristotle's thesis of four causes - causes, the four {Gk. aitia [aitia]} Aristotle's distinction in Physics among four answers to the question of why something is:

Arithmancy - A type of divination using numbers particularly in relation to equations A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Armomancy - A type of divination by examining one's shoulders A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Armstrongism - The doctrines and religious movement originating with Herbert W. Armstrong (1892-1986), who founded the Worldwide Church of God (WCG). Armstrong rejected such essential doctrines of evangelical Christianity as the Trinity, the full deity of Jesus Christ, and the personality of the Holy Spirit. Armstrong taught British Israelism and believed that worthy humans could eventually "become God as God is God." Teaches salvation by works predicated on Sabbatarianism, tithing (20-30%), and keeping the Old Testament feast days and dietary laws. Under the leadership of Armstrong's successors, Joseph W. Tkach and his son Joe Tkach, the WCG has undergone a radical doctrinal transformation. Scores of splinter groups, such as the Global Church of God and the United Church of God, continue to teach various forms of Armstrongism. The Worldwide Church of God Herbert W. Armstrong Pasadena, CA Under the leadership of its founder, Herbert W. Armstrong, this church rejected the essential doctrines of evangelical Christianity, denying the doctrine of the Trinity, the full deity of Jesus Christ, and the personality of the Holy Spirit. The church epitomized the somewhat eclectic set of beliefs and practices that became known as Armstrongism. Beginning in the early 1990s under the leadership Armstrong's successors, Joseph W. Tkach and his son Joe Tkach, this group has undergone remarkable doctrinal transformation. They now hold to a traditional evangelical position on the nature of God and the gospel, teaching the Trinity and salvation by grace alone, through faith alone. Large numbers of its membership have left to join splinter groups that still teach classic Armstrongism. Publishes The Plain Truth magazine. Profile available.

Arrow - When the term Arrow [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences when considered alone as [swift application of force], key number 25] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a regular or specially designed object in the shape of an Arrow which is used to represent swift penetration to the center of the objective, and to direct the created Energies in that manner. Best specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same.

Arthurian - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding the Arthurian archetypes and stories from Cornwall and Wales concerning the Arthurian pantheon as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. Arthurian tradition is within a Celtic/Saxon context. It relies on magick preformed in and around for instance: King Arthur, Guenivere, Glastonbury, the Merlins of Britain, the Lady of the Lake and Avalon. The Tradition may be based on the system of magick preformed by Druids, Celts and their precursors and successors, Sacred Theatre on Arthurian motifs is often involved.

Asanas (One of the Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga from the traditions of the Indus Valley) - Postures There are many Asanas (8,400,000 possibly) Many Yogis concentrate on the Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation (which is a graceful sequence of twelve positions performed as one continuous exercise, and has the additional effect of limbering and preparing the body for the Asanas). Followed by a series of Asanas, typically: Sirshasana (the headstand); Sarvangasana (the shoulderstand); Halasana (the Plough); Matsyasana (the Fish); Paschimothanasana (the Forward bend); Bhujangasana (the Cobra); Shalabhasana (the Locust); Dhanurasana (the Bow); Ardha Matsyendrasana (the Spinal twist); Kakasana (Crow pose) or Mayurasana (the Peacock pose); Pada Hasthasana (Standing forward bend); and Trikonasana (the Triangle). This is usually followed by a period of deeper relaxation perhaps in (the Corpse pose), and possibly some other meditation exercises.

Ásatrú - A MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents as such, and holding Celebration of the Mysteries of the Aesir as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. Ásatrú means tru (true, or keeping faith with) the Asa (Aesir, the pantheon of the highest gods). This word is most accurately applied to all the extant practices of the purely Norse religion. Ásatrú is the modern rebirth of the religion based upon the polytheistic beliefs of archaic Northern Europe, the indigenous faith of the Norse peoples -- the ancestors of for instance: Norwegians, Danes, Swedes, and Icelanders. This faith honored many Gods and Goddesses, some of whose names are still familiar to us today, such as Thor, Odin and Freyja. It is a ReConstructionist faith. By this term, we mean that the modern religion Ásatrú has been rebuilt in part by piecing together from surviving lore, historical, and anthropological documents, harnessing its truths in modern life, and preserving them for future generations. Most of Ásatrú's surviving lore can be found in the Icelandic texts: The Prose Eddas and The Poetic Eddas. Ásatrú is a highly individualistic religion that stresses values such as loyalty, honesty, honor, and self-reliance. The modern revival of Ásatrú began in the 1970's in Iceland and was led by the late Icelandic Poet Sveinbjorn Bentisson. Since then, Ásatrú has continued to grow all over Europe, The United States, Canada, Australia, and even Argentina and has become a state recognized religion (as required by national law) in Iceland and Norway. Many Ásatrúar choose to wear a Thor's Hammer or Mjollnir as a symbol of their faith. This symbol not only evokes the strength of Thor, but serves also to remind the practitionors that like mighty Thor, they too are guardians of the Earth. In nature religions such as Ásatrú , the bond between the individual and his/her planet is of utmost importance. That there are several groups, and that there are "non-purely" Norse religious practices alive today, may be attributed to the tribal aspect of the ancient Norse people. Religion was of, and for the people. If they lived in separate groups, their religion was practiced in separate groups, and might take a divergent path, both in emphasis, and discovery. Modern practitionors (called Ásatrúar) retain that traditional view - this built in diversity is a intrinsic component of the religion itself. Groups of these practitionors are called "Kindreds" and "Hearths". There are kindreds located in the Scandinavian countries, continental Europe, Great Britain, North America and Australia, with scattered smaller groups found elsewhere.

Ásatrú Free Assembly - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding Celebration of the Mysteries of both the Aesir and Vanir as primary or critical parameters of their Spiritual Paradigm. Ásatrú Free Assembly is a Norse Pagan tradition founded in 1972 by Stephen McNallen.

Asgardian - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding core concepts from Norse and Celtic roots as delineated in the Tradition's founding by the Coven of the Black Rose as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. The Asgardian tradition strives to bring back the Ancient ways and ceremonies as well as employing modern Wicca and shamanism.

Aspergillus - When the term Aspergillus is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a consecrated object which is designed to or capable of being used to sprinkle lustral waters in a Working.

Aspidomancy - A type of divination by sitting and chanting within a circle, in some cases the diviner sits on a shield A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Assisting in the Translation of Planes - Garden of Life considers Assisting in the Translation of Planes a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Assisting in the Translation of Planes may be an Act and/or Process to aid an Individual in the navigation of the various levels between the Planes of Existence, after passage from the material plane. Such Act is usually performed by Celebrants led by one or more Officiants, at the request of a Member and/or an Individual or Individuals from the Member's Household, which ordinarily consists of performing a specifically designed Celebratory Ritual to commemorate and/or lend beneficial energy towards the Individuals Transition to another Plane of Existence.

Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
an Act, Acts and/or Process or Series of Acts to aid an Individual in the navigation of the various levels between the Planes of Existence, after passage from the material plane. Such Act is usually performed by Celebrants led by one or more Officiants, at the request of a Member and/or an Individual or Individuals from the Member's Household, which ordinarily consists of performing a specifically designed Celebratory Ritual.

Asteya - The Yama that is called Asteya is categorized as non-stealing, obviously this is an oversimplification but a useful one for metaphysical study. The Yamas are one of the Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga from the traditions of the Indus Valley. The Yamas or restraints (Don'ts) are divided into five moral injunctions, aimed at destroying the lower nature. They should all be practiced and developed by the letter but also more importantly in the spirit. They should all be practiced in word, thought and deed. The other four of the five Yamas are:
Ahimsa or non-violence
Satyam or non-lying
Brahmacharya or non-excess in all things (control of all senses).
Aparigraha or non-covetousness

Astragalomancy - A type of divination using dice or knucklebones, in some cases using the bones of sheep, may be a type of sortiledge A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Astral Plane - When the term Astral Plane is used in the field of Spiritual, MetaPhysical and/or Magickal philosophy it generally refers to

Astral Structures - When the term Astral Structures is used in the field of Spiritual, MetaPhysical and/or Magickal philosophy it generally refers to

Astrology - When the term Astrology is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Astrology - A type of divination by the stars, planets and signs of the zodiac, and other elements of astrology A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Athamé - When the term Athamé [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences see Dagger, key number 11] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a short knife with double sided blade, specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same.

Atheism - A MetaPhysical Orientation toward the Divine, that holds that there is no Divine Force.

Atmosphere - When the term Atmosphere [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences similar to Twilight of the Place, key number 29] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to

Attraction -

Attribute - An attribute is quality or characteristic so universally ascribed to a particular thing as being inherently or intrinsic integral and/or associated with that thing, that it is perceived as sharing and/or illuminating the nature of the object to which the attribute belongs.

au Courant - The place where the steel molecules meet the air molecules in "The Cutting Edge" with overtones of "Crème de la Crème".

Audeal Arts - Audeal Arts is a constructed phrase, parallel in manner of delineation to Visual (meaning capable of being input by the sight receptors, translated and transmuted by the Brain and processed by the part of the Mind and Consciousness that processes input from such receptors) Arts, except relating to the receptors and parts of the Brain, Mind and Consciousness that process input from receptors of the Audible frequencies.

Augury - A type of divination by signs and portents A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Aura - Each of us is surrounded by an electromagnetic energy pattern or human energy field that includes the human body. Present day scientists measure the frequency and location of this field on humans. The aura reflects our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Everyone has the capability to see auras with little or no training. The colors of the aura, which include the range of the rainbow, change with one's emotions and the condition of the seven corresponding "chakra" glands within the body.

Australian Indigenous - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.

Austromancy - A type of divination using the wind, a form of Aeromancy A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Automatic Writing -

Autonomism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

Autonomy and Heteronomy - Correlative terms, developed by Kant, of very wide applicability to moral theory. Autonomy (Greek 'self' + 'law') understands the moral imperative as the moral agent's own freely and rationally adopted moral policy. As moral agents, we are all subject to the moral law, but we repudiate all maxims (personal policies of action) which 'cannot accord with the will's own enactment of universal law' (Ground-work, ch. 2). All alternative accounts, where moral law is commanded from without, are heteronomous (the law of 'another'). Among heteronomous theories are those that see moral imperatives as commands of the state or of society, or even as the commands of a deity. No less heteronomous is a theory that identifies the source of morality with some contingent drive or sentiment in one's empirical psychology. For a Kantian moralist, moral maturity crucially involves the recognition of autonomy. There is an important link here with freedom. Heteronomy, in any form, entails that we are passive under some command or impulsion which we do not, can not, initiate. In contrast, if we autonomously recognize and endorse a moral value, make it our own, we are acting (when we obey it) as we have most deeply and freely resolved to act. What autonomy amounts to, however, has been interpreted in radically different ways: by some as the discerning and 'enacting' - through common rational procedures - of a common moral law. This was Kant's own position. As reworked by certain Existentialists, analytical philosophers, and radical educationalists, autonomy has amounted to the individual's total sovereignty over his or her 'choice' of moral values and self-construction, a view that accords a unique importance to 'authenticity', freedom from 'mauvaise foi'. This extreme version of autonomy is seriously and dangerously flawed. It is hard or impossible, for one thing, to justify in its own terms the place it gives to the virtue of authenticity itself. Again, it would seem to imply that any value-claim whatever ('maximize suffering', say) is vindicated so long as it stems from individual, 'autonomous' decision. In practice, such implications tend to be masked by smuggling into a theory basic, common judgements of value not at all derived from individual decision.

Avatar - A Sentient that either at some particular time or continually manifests as an Incarnation of some Part of the Divine Essence of This Cosmos; or is the Total or Pinnacle Embodiment of some Concept or group of Concepts relating to the same.

Axinomancy - A type of divination employing an axe or hatchet A general Divinatory System list with short definitions

Axiologism - When used in reference to a point of view within the field of Ethical, Value and/or Behavioural Matters, this is a Point of View in which the prime parameter for effectuating a course of action is determined by choosing that which is

Axiomaticist -

Axioms -

Ayurvedic - Tenets revolve around three doshas or body/spirit types below. Places high value on diet, detoxification, exercise, herbal medicines and meditation. Originated in India. The word Ayurveda comes from "Ayur" meaning "life" in Sanskrit and "Veda" which refers to knowledge or science.
vata (air) lightest and most slender, walks and talks fast, dislikes cold and bundles up, creates easily and learns quickly
pitta (fire) medium, strong build, orderly, radiates confidence and passion, at the mercy of their appetites, dislikes the sun and heat
kapha (earth) affectionate, large, heavyset body, faithful and true, relaxed, forgiving, slow and graceful, even keel, slow to anger