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
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
Machæromancy - A type of divination using blades A general Divinatory System list with short definitions
Macromancy - A type of divination using large objects A general Divinatory System list with short definitions
Maculomancy - A type of divination using spots A general Divinatory System list with short definitions
Macumba - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, Macumba is not in itself a religion but the umbrella for the two principal forms of African spirit worship in Brazil, related to Vodoun and Santaria which are Candomblé and Umbanda. Macumba is sometimes used to refer to harmful magick, but that is more properly called Quimbanda. Macumba is also called Spiritism but that is a very general name for a specific group of religions.
Madelainian - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.
Madhyamika Buddhism - 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 as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. The Sanskrit word "Madhyamika" means "one who holds to the middle". The concept of "The Middle Way" in Buddhism begins with the Buddha's description of his path to enlightenment as one which avoids the extremes of indulging in worldly pleasures, on the one hand, and engaging in severe ascetic practices on the other. The Middle Way of Madhyamika refers to the teachings of Nagarjuna, who, at a time when the Mahayana teachings were falling into decline, wrote his Six Treatises, four of which directly expound the doctrine of sunyata, or emptiness. 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 entry on Madhyamika Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)
Mage -
Magian - When this designation is used to refer to a MetaPhysical Orientation as to Tradition, Culture or Preferred Flavour, which is primarily defined, usually selfdefined by it's members and/or adherents holding as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm
MahaYana Buddhism - 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 as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. In the second century of the common era, there arose in India a new movement that came to be called Mahayana, which means "Great Vehicle." In contrast to the older Theravada schools, the Mahayana placed less emphasis on the accepted texts of the Buddha; inspired adepts from that time, such as Nagarjuna, imbued the Buddha's teachings with new interpretations. The Mahayana schools relaxed the stringent adhesion to the rules and regulations that had been laid out in the monastic code developed by the Buddha some 700 years earlier; the focus instead became the Buddha's teachings on the nature of emptiness and the relationship between form and emptiness. The Mahayana placed great importance on the inherent embodiment of buddha nature-or enlightened mind-by all human beings, and encouraged individual experience to be the basis of insight and attainment in the process of realizing one's own Buddha nature. 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 entry on MahaYana Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)
Magian - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.
Magick - Conscious focusing of the will (thought), form (physical) and emotion(desire) to effect change. Technically speaking, any conscious act is a magickal act. Magick is neither good nor evil, neither positive nor negative. The practitioner, not the energy form, determines the path and outcome it will take.
Magick Mirror -
Magickal - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, Magick is action to effectuate change in accordance with will
Magickal Circle - When the term Magickal Circle [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 10] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to
Magickal Energies -
Magickal Implements, Sacred Objects, Ceremonial Tools and/or Foci - When the term Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus is used, it generally refers to items used in the practice of Magickal and/or MetaPhysical Workings and/or Research. Almost universal among the Pagan Traditions is the recommendation (and in some cases requirement) that each Individual practitionor create their own implements, and that implements used by Groups be created by members of that Group, in order to keep the Energy bonds as immediate as possible. Also the recommendation and/or requirement to use these items only in Magickal and/or MetaPhysical pursuits is nearly omnipresent. The Magickal Circle, Altar, Disc, Cup, Wand, Blade, Lamp, Bell, Candle and Incense are the most universally utilized of the Implements, Objects, Tools and/or Foci across the vast tapestry of the Traditions.
Magickal Mirror -
Magickal Pentagon - When the term Magickal Pentagon is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to
Magickal Square - When the term Magickal Square is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to
Magickal Systems - A basic set of guidelines relating to magickal and cultural traditions, sometimes including religion.
Magickal Triangle - When the term Magickal Triangle [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 10] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to
Maitreyan Buddhism - 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 as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Devotees of the Buddha Maitreya existed in early Chinese Buddhism, they described Maitreya, dwelling in the Tusita paradise, as an object of veneration much like Amitabha for the Pure Land School. 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 entry on Maitreyan Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)
Malaise -Malaise
Maltese (Primal-Dreaming Goddess-Other) - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.
Mandala - Mandala is the Sanskrit word for sacred circle. The circle is a symbol of wholeness and harmony, a connection to the source of all life which is held sacred in many cultures and faith traditions. Mandalas offer a path to healing and transformative powers through art, light and sound. Mandalas move beyond limitation into the world of possibility, awakening the inner realm of peace, discovering your creative potential, illuminating your soul intuition and sense of self to experience the love of uncovering your inner radiance. Sacred, geometric paintings used for meditation purposes and characterized by a circle and a square which radiate from a central point. Jung interpreted them as an archetypal expression of the Self and wholeness. Mandala images often emerge In dreams and paintings during analysis.
Manifestation / Showing - Garden of Life considers Manifestation or Showing a Pagan Sacrament. In a preliminary description Manifestation or Showing may be an Act and/or Process performed by an Officiant when they become a Vessel Filled with Divine Essence, usually for the purpose of Divine Essence having a more direct and numinous presence in the Working. Manifestation generally occurs at a Celebratory Working and ordinarily consists of an Officiant Incarnating for the duration of the Circle, a Facet of the Divine Essence, whether from a particular Tradition or that Facet that She/He will one day continually be. In less formal settings or in everyday life this Showing Process may consist regardless of temporal duration, of existing as an Actualized Avatar, with the object of showing others that such a level of existence is possible on the material plane.
Below please find the wording that Garden of Life uses in it's Articles of Organization to delineate this Sacrament:
an Act, Acts, a Process, Processes and/or Series of Acts and/or Processes performed by an Officiant in Becoming a Vessel Filled with the Divine Essence of this Cosmos, usually for the purpose of those Divine Forces having a more direct and numinous presence in the Working. When performed at a Celebratory Working this Manifestation Process ordinarily consists of Incarnating for that duration a Facet of the Divine Essence, whether from a particular Tradition or that Facet that She/He will one day be continually. In less formal settings or in everyday life this Showing Process may consist of existing as an Actualized Avatar, with the object of showing others that such a level of existence is possible on the material plane. In our tradition this is sometimes referred to as Being in a Process of .
Mano and Matate (often pronounced Me'heté) - In the Anasazi Culture, women spent hours everyday grinding corn into flour using a mano and matate, after the corn was ground, the cornmeal was parched in large jars that lay near the fire. When the term Mano and Matate is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to a smaller set of these implements used only for grinding ceremonial mixtures such as Ho'mam'ni from various grains and plant items.
Mantrum - A devotional phrase that is repeated over and over to reach higher mental and spiritual states. Every mantrum has a physical, audible sound, creating sound waves of a specific nature. The higher vibrational, inaudible sounds in the mantrum create mental and spiritual energy waves. When supplemented with a sincere belief and spiritual attitude, mantrums are effectively used for healing. The word, with the breath and the consciousness, form a vital combination of energies that amplify the results.
Manx - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. An Irish tradition deeply connected with the mystical Isle of Man. Manann Mac Llyr, God of the Sea and Fand, a Faery Queen are the principal deities.
Mar'rer - In an Ægyptian Paradigm the Mar'rer 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 Mar'rer may be considered as the embodied True Will, including Intuition and the ability to Discern, or make distinctions. The Mar'rer primarily functions within the field of the Magickal forces, and is sometimes referred to as a component of the Secret Force. This is the component that reflects the concept of "Every Man and Every Woman is a Star", most recently codified in the Thelemic N'ta. The idea that each Entity has its own perfect place and trajectory in the Cosmos. If considered within a Sanatana Dharma Chakric context, the Mar'rer might be considered to work in the arena of the Manipûra Chakra or what is often called in the West, the Will Chakra. A more complete listing of the various component parts in this particular system of reconstituted Ægyptian Parts of the Entity.
Margaritomancy - A type of divination using pearls A general Divinatory System list with short definitions
Massage Therapy - Systematic manipulation of the soft tissues. Benefits range from physical, mental, emotional to simply "feeling good." Massage reduces the effects of stress, relaxes tense muscles, increases blood circulation, decreases chronic pain, strengthens the immune system, improves nerve function, improves skin tone & helps you to sleep better. Massage goes much deeper than the skin. It can dilate blood vessels and relieve congestion throughout the body. Massage acts as a mechanical cleanser, pushing waste products and toxins through the lymphatic system. It improves muscle tone and assists in helping to prevent atrophy that results from inactivity. Massage also helps break down fat cells in subcutaneous tissues.
Deep Tissue - Uses techniques to affect the sub-layer of musculature and fascia.
Infant - Comforts and soothes newborn babies. Helps baby digest feedings better and sleep more restfully. Baby receives special attention and grows closer. Very beneficial during first month of life.
Lymphatic - A gentle, whole body massage aimed at stimulating the lymphatic system to carry away excessive fluid in the loose connective tissue. Non-invasive, painless therapy intended for conditions such as swelling, neuromuscular disorders, or congestion. Uses techniques to accelerate the movement of lymphatic fluid to healthy parts of the body for re-absorption. It is widely used in Europe and Australia. Focuses on gently moving skin and connective tissue rather than muscle tissue. This stimulates the weakened lymphatic system and allows the stagnant fluid to be shunted to those areas where lymph vessels are healthy and will reabsorb the fluid.
Shiatsu - A Japanese style of massage that involves applying pressure with the balls of the thumbs on acupuncture points to balance Ki (life force energy) which flows through the meridian channels throughout the body. The many forms of shiatsu are all directed at rebalancing ki flow where some areas are deficient (kyo) and others have excess (jitsu) ki.
Swedish - Emphasizes strokes going toward the heart. Uses five main strokes to stimulate the circulation of blood through the soft tissues of the body.
Mathemancy - A type of divination by counting A general Divinatory System list with short definitions
Matriarchal -
Matriarchal Society -
Matrifocal -
Matrifocal Society -
Matrix - An Officiant that specializes in organization and intensification of Circle Energy, prior to aiding the transference to an Officiant or Officiants, ordinarily when such Officiants are Manifesting and Building or preparing for such Building of Energy. For example: a Celebratory Officiant whose Work is the Channeling of Earth and Circle Energy into the Officiating Priestess or Priestesses to intensify the Field of Energy that they can draw on for Manifestation or Building and Sending.
Maya - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.
Me (Sumerian term)- One of the earliest stories of a female magician, the story of Inanna and Enki, reflects the archetype of the cunning Woman, who manages to "charm" her way into power. Inanna arrays herself in splendor, and goes to visit Enki, the God of Wisdom. A drinking match ensues, and Enki begins toasting Inanna by giving her his sacred Me, which has been defined by Samuel Kramer (2) as the "fundamental, unalterable, comprehensive assortment of powers and duties, norms and standards, rules and regulations, relating to the cosmos and its components, to gods and humans, to cities and countries, and to the varied components of civilized life." In short, the Me are the emblems of cosmic order, a very "Hod" idea. Enki gifts Inanna with the most precious Me: the high priesthood, godships, all the implements of royalty, the priests and priestesses, truth, the ability to descend to and ascend from the Underworld, the arts of dress and adornment, lovemaking and sacred prostitution, the art of speeding, the entire art of speech -- both forthright, false, and flattering, music, the arts of the hero and the elder, the art of power, the art of treachery as well as the art of straightforwardness, theft, grief and rejoicing, deceit, kindness, rebellion, travel, secure dwelling, all of the crafts, the rites of the temple and the duties of tending livestock, the perceptive ear, the power of attention, fear, dismay, consternation, the family, procreation, the control of fire, the ability to both kindling and dispel strife, to discern matters and issue decrees, and lastly, to make decisions. To each, she enthusiastically responds with "I take them!!" and after Enki passes out, loads them up in her boat and returns home. (3) Enki later awakes, remembers what has happened and naturally regrets his drunken generosity, but his is unable to reclaim them from Inanna, who then gives them to human civilization, and is blessed by Enki for it. From the long catalog of gifts that Inanna is given, we see the full range of human responses to emotions and creative impulses. She gets the bad with the good, and is given the power to choose between them.
Meconomancy - A type of divination using sleep A general Divinatory System list with short definitions
Medicine - (in the sense of a Native American Tradition) - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. MEDICINE: Native American term for magick, consciously focusing will (thought), form (physical) and emotion(desire) to effect change. Technically speaking, any conscious act is a magickal act. Magick is neither good nor evil, neither positive nor negative. The practitioner, not the energy form, determines the path and outcome it will take.
Medicine Wheel -
Meditation - When used in reference to a MetaPhysical Orientation of Experiential Spiritual Methodology, Meditation is ordinarily characterized by much emphasis being placed on contemplative focal practice, concentrating one's energies toward some specific and/or toward the absence of such. Technique that focuses the mind and promotes a state of calmness so that mind and God can be brought into greater harmony to facilitate health and healing. A state of thoughtless awareness, where everyday activity of the mind ceases, yet one remains peaceful and aware. All this happens in a quiet relaxed manner without any strain or effort.
Meditational Buddhism - 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 as such, and holding the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha, and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Direct understanding of sunyata is often described by way of the Greek term gnosis . This gnosis is achieved by means of meditational practices of various kinds, but it is based on a correct inferential understanding of emptiness, which is brought about by reason. The experience in meditational equipoise is rooted in the conceptual understanding of emptiness, but that conceptual understanding is also altered by the meditational experience. There is a feedback loop which can eventually lead the practitioner to the fruits of the path being followed, be it Sravaka, Pratyekabuddha or Boddhisattva. These paths to salvation are unique to Buddhism, as are some of the methods employed on the paths. 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 entry on Meditational Buddhism (also see: the complete entry on Buddhism.)
Mediterranean - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.
Mediumist Trance -
Mediumship - Ability to get in touch with your higher self, spirit guides, departed loved ones, angels, archangels, Master Teachers, totem animals, and earth spirits enabling you to bring forth spirit messages for yourself and others. Receives clarity of vision and purpose in your life to apply to your physical reality to improve your total quality of life.
Megalopsychia - Greek term for magnanimity or greatness of soul, one of the greatest of the moral virtues in the ethics of Aristotle.
Meher Baba Tradition - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm.
Mehete and Mano - (see Metate and Mano)
Melancholy - Melancholy
Membraenes between Levels of Existence - The Boundaries that separate and isolate the Pockets of Order in the Entropic Cosmos. Meme - A self-replicating unit of cultural meaning. Transmitted socially among individuals of different generations, memes evolve through processes of mutation and natural selection. Thus, for example, the jingles sung by children while skipping rope, the conventional standards for fashionable dress, and the notions comprising the "common-sense" view of the world are all passed on through time, gradually modifying without any deliberate guidance. Merovingian - MesoPaganism - MesoPaganism or "Meso-Paganism" includes those Traditions which attempt to recreate, revive or continue what their founders thought of as the PaleoPagan ways of their ancestors or predecessors. These were often influenced (accidentally, deliberately and/or involuntarily) by the monotheistic and dualistic worldviews of the Abramic faiths: Yahwist Judaism, Christianity and/or Islam. Examples of this type of MesoPagan Traditions might include Freemasonry, Rosicrucianism, Theosophy, Illuminatism and so forth. Traditions considered MesoPagan also include groups which have been influenced (accidentally, deliberately and/or involuntarily) by a conquering or successor culture, but which have been able to significantly maintain an independence of religious practice. Examples of this type of MesoPagan Traditions might include many current Native American Indian Traditions, and some forms of Voudon, Santaria, Macumba, etc.. Mesos - Aristotle's Greek term for the mean or middle way that invariably characterizes virtue. Messianic Judaism - is a religious movement, composed of faith groups that are mainly attended by ethnic/cultural Jews. They differ from Reform, Conservative, Orthodox and Ultra-Orthodox Jews over their beliefs about the Messiah. Most Jews believe that the Messiah has yet to come; Messianic Jews believe that Yeshua of Nazareth was the expected Messiah. (Christians call Yeshua: Jesus Christ.) The recent roots of Messianic Judaism date from the mid 19th century. Many Jews in Britain who had accepted Christian beliefs questioned why they were expected to forfeit their Jewish heritage and identity in order to accept the Messiah. The Hebrew Christian Alliance and Prayer Union of Great Britain was formed in 1866 to promote the combination of Jewish heritage and Christian theology. A similar group, The Messianic Jewish Alliance of America (MJAA) was organized in the U.S. in 1915. Most believers would probably accept the definition of a Messianic Jew as "a person who was born Jewish or converted to Judaism, who is a 'genuine believer' in Yeshua [Jesus], and who acknowledges his Jewishness." 1
• "A tenet of Messianic Judaism asserts that when a Jew accepts a Jewish Messiah, born in a Jewish land, who was foretold by Jewish prophets in the Jewish Scriptures, such a Jew does not become a Gentile. In fact, he becomes a completed Jew -- a Jew who believes Jesus is the Messiah." 2
• Those of the "Evangelic" wing of Messianic Judaism hold theological beliefs which are essentially identical to those of Evangelical Christianity, including: G-d as a Trinity of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; the virgin birth; sinless life; resurrection; ascension and future second coming, salvation , inerrancy of the Bible, etc. 3,4
• They believe that their religious practices and beliefs are very similar to that experienced by a 1st century CE Jewish Christian movement (also known as The Way or the Nazarenes). This was one of about two dozen religious movements which were active at the time, including the Pharisees, Sadducees, Zealots, followers of John the Baptist, Essenes, Gnostics, Herodians, Pauline Christians, etc. The Jewish Christians was composed of Jewish reformers; their group was founded by Jesus' disciples, lead by James -- the brother of Jesus, -- and largely concentrated in Jerusalem. Historians and theologians differ in their beliefs about the 1st century Jewish Christians:
• Many religious liberals believe that the Jewish Christians considered themselves to be a reform movement within Judaism. They sacrificed in the Temple, observed all of the Jewish holy days and dietary restrictions, and circumcised their male children. They worshiped G-d as a unity, and viewed Jesus as a human prophet and teacher, not a deity or part of a deity.
• Evangelical Christians generally believe that the Christian movement centered in Jerusalem differed little from the Pauline Christians, except that the former circumcised their male children, observed Jewish dietary laws, and worshiped in the Temple. They viewed Jesus as the Son of God, as one personality within the Trinity, as the Messiah, and as their savior. Messianic Jews generally pattern their beliefs after the Evangelical Christian view of the 1st century Jewish Christians. For this reason, they are generally considered to be Christians by the larger Jewish community.
• Some believe that Yeshua will return to earth in the "Second Coming" only when a sufficient number of Jews accept him as their Messiah and Savior. Others believe that Jesus may come at any time. Metagnomy - A type of divination by seeing future events in a hypnotic trance A general Divinatory System list with short definitions MetaPhilosophy - Branch of philosophy that tries to determine the proper aims, methods, and conditions for the discipline of philosophy itself. MetaPhysics - Branch of philosophy concerned with providing a comprehensive account of the most general features of reality as a whole; the study of being as such. Questions about the existence and nature of consciousness, sentience, spirit, mind, body, divinity, space, time, causality, volition, chaos, diversity, unity, identity, and the world are all Metaphysical issues. From Plato onwards, many philosophers have tried to determine what kinds of things (and how many of each) exist. But Kant argued that this task is impossible; he proposed instead that we consider the general structure of our thought about the world. Strawson calls the former activity revisionary, and the latter descriptive, Metaphysics. Metaphysics
The study of the ultimate reality. Includes phenomena such as astral travel, out-of-body experiences, spirit communication, astrology, UFOs, telekinesis (ability to move objects), ESP, spiritual healing, and all forms of precognition.
Metaphysics (as a sub-discipline of Philosophy): The study of reality. In many ways this discipline is carried on by science, particularly physics, but philosophy is not limited by empirical observation. In Metaphysics we can question what things are real, and wonder if there are other things in the universe that we cannot perceive directly that might be real. Do thoughts exist? Do they exist in the same way that tables and chairs exist? Or, do tables and chairs not exist, but only our thoughts about them exist? Is there anything ultimate and unified about reality? Is the universe organized or chaotic? Metate and Mano - When the term Metate and Mano is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to Meteormancy - A type of divination using shooting stars and meteors, a type of aeromancy A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Metopomancy - A type of divination using the forehead or face or the lines thereon A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Micromancy - A type of divination using small objects A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Mimêsis - Greek term for imitation or representation. Hence, for Plato, mimêsis is the way in which sensible particulars copy the eternal forms. Although Aristotle rejected the theory of forms, he agreed with Plato that aesthetic experience is fundamentally mimetic. Mind - When in Mind Control - (Thought Reform, brainwashing) While evangelicals lack consensus on the nature, extent or, in some cases, even existence of Mind Control, the Bible does warns against seducers, deceivers, and exploiters who employ methods that can bring about spiritual harm and/or personal abuse. The Mind Control or Thought Reform model, as for instance developed by Robert Lifton, suggests that there are specific methods of deception that can be employed by abusive spiritual leaders that may result in a diminished capacity for critical thinking and suppression of autonomy in their followers. These methods are believed to involve an intense social influence conditioning program which may include a closed system of authoritarian control, manipulative, group dynamics, a system of punishment and rewards, induced dissociation or trance induction, information control, fraud, coercion, and double binds. Depending on the number and intensity of undue influence elements, and a person's own unique susceptibilities, one may experience a pseudo personality change and marked debilitation, compliance, and servitude. The Mind Control model should not be interpreted to mean that the subject is not responsible for the consequences of his or her decisions and actions. The Mind Control theory is not justification for holding individuals against their will or for conducting forcible, involuntary deprogramming. Mind Power Technique - New Age process to read auras and balance chakras. Mind Sciences - A generic, general classification of religious groups that hold to the belief that human beings are inherently divine and that mind or thoughts are energy forms that can create and/or alter reality. Most often used in reference to the American religions formed since the middle of the 19th century, especially Christian Science, New Thought, and Religious Science, that deny the actuality of sin, sickness, and/or death and promote health though mental practices. Minoan Brotherhood - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. A Gay Men's tradition of Wicca established in New York by the late Lord Gwydion (Eddie Buczynski) in the mid - 1970's, at the same time as the Minoan Sisterhood was being established by Lady Miw, also in New York. The Brotherhood remains exclusively a venue for Gay men to explore a traditional ritual Wicca, one that can foster a similar, though Gay, sexual mysticism and sense of personal empowerment as in some British traditions of Wicca. As the founder was a Gardnerian initiate, the rituals are roughly Gardnerian, with changes to accommodate a different core mythology and ritual custom. Imagery and deities are those of Ancient Crete and Mycenae. Working tools and their uses are virtually identical to those of British traditional Wicca. Minoan Sisterhood: The Sisterhood was founded in Manhattan, NY in the mid-1970's. Unlike its counterpart, the Brotherhood, the Sisterhood is not for homosexuals only. Covens are female-only, however. This Tradition claims newly acclaimed author Phyllis Curott as one its initiates. Minoan Sisterhood - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Mirror - When the term Mirror [in Aleister Crowley's 777 Tables of Correspondences, key number 29] is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to Mithraic - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. MITHRAISM: The Persian religion centered on the reverence of Mithra, god of Light. It emphasized the conflict between good and evil and the reward of virtue or punishment of wickedness in the afterlife. It was the principal rival of Christianity in the first three centuries CE and is believed to be the foundation of the concept of hell and Satan in Christianity. Mittiani - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Mitzvah - Mixing the Levels - When the term Mixing the Levels is used in the field of Spiritual, Metaphysical and/or Magickal philosophy it generally refers to actions without understanding and/or with misunderstanding of the context of the actions. Modalism - (Patripassianism, Modalistic Monarchianism, Sabellianism, Jesus Only, Oneness Pentecostalism) Originally, a second and third century heresy that denies the doctrine of the Trinity, teaching there is only one Person in the Godhead. While the Trinity doctrine teaches three distinct Persons, modalism maintains that one Person (usually the Father) has manifested Himself at different times under different names (Jesus/Spirit) or modes. Thus, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are three names for the same Person. Originally taught in various forms by Noetus, Praxeas and Sabellius. Modified forms of this doctrine can be found in the teachings of William Branham, some Apostolic churches and the United Pentecostal Church. Mohsian Wicca - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Mohsian Wicca is an offshoot of Gardnerian Wicca, 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 American Wicca. Moleoscopy - A type of divination using observation of moles on the body A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Molybdomancy - A type of divination using lead, in some cases molten tin or lead A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Monarchianism - View found primarily in the third century that denied the Trinity, arguing that because God's nature is one He cannot exist eternally in three Persons. The two most popular forms of monarchianism were dynamic monarchianism and modalism. Mongolian - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. Monism - A Metaphysical Orientation toward the Divine, that all reality derived from and is in the process of returning to the undifferentiated Divine substance of the Cosmos MonoTheism - A Metaphysical Orientation toward the Divine, that holds that there is only one Divine Entity. MONOTHEISM: The doctrine or belief that there is only one conscious entity that is God, and that this entity is separate and apart from the World. See Also: Henotheism, Pantheism, and Polytheism. Monroe Institute - Robert Monroe, Faber, VA Out-of-Body experiences, Evolution of Human Consciousness. Moral Absolutist - 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 that all behaviours in all situations are good or bad, to be determined by comparison to a pre-existing list of absolute values. Morality - is a Guide to Living Choosing to live is a pre-moral choice, after which, the question becomes "How?" This is the same as "What do I do?" One can either go about it randomly or with a methodology designed for success. That methodology is called morality. An explicit morality allows one to choose rationally among values. It makes the selection of values rational by providing a method to evaluate them. Values are compared to a moral standard, and prioritized according to how well they promote that standard. To make decisions easier, we develop virtues which are moral habits which tend to help gain values. Historically, the concept of morality has often been used negatively as a list of thou shall not's in check against ones actions. The stance taken is often that it doesn't matter what you do, as long as you don't violate any moral edicts; but the source of these moral edicts is often mystical or arbitrary. This is a sort of restricted subjectivism.
A list of prohibitions, even if founded in reason rather than mysticism, is not a sufficient outline for success. Morality should be positive rather than negative. Not What shouldn't I do? but What should I do?. The problem with defining morality negatively is that pretty much anything goes provided one avoids a few problem areas. This is not useful because within the sphere of pretty much anything goes, there is no methodical way to choose which action is best, whereas positive morality sets forth habits, i.e. virtues, which lead to the achievement of values and methods for choosing what to value which is the way to live and thrive. With one's own life as the standard of value, morality is not a burden to bear, it is no unfortunate duty, but a prudent and effective guide which furthers life and success. With one's life as the standard of value, morality is transformed from an arbitrary mystical set of duties into a useful set of guidelines for how to live and flourish and achieve the best possible life (Eudaemonia, as Aristotle called it.) Morgan McFarland Dianic Tradition - 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 and lineages from Morgan McFarland and Mark Roberts as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. The first Dianic coven in the U.S. was formed in the late19'60s by Morgan McFarland and Mark Roberts, in Dallas, Texas. This branch gives primacy to the Goddess in its theology, but honors the Horned God as Her beloved Consort. Covens include both women and men. This branch is sometimes called 'Old Dianic,' and there are still covens of this tradition especially in Texas. Moromancy - A type of divination by observation of nonsense or foolish people's behaviour A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Morphomancy - A type of divination using the changing of shapes A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Mortar and Pestle - When the term Mortar and Pestle is used in reference to Magickal Implements, Sacred Objects, Ceremonial Tools and/or Foci it generally refers to a bowl shaped vessel made of a hard substance (the Mortar), and a rod like implement with a rounded head embedded with harder pieces (the Pestle) which may be used to grind substances in the Mortar in a rotating motion. The set is often specifically made for general or particular Magickal Working, and/or consecrated to the same. Mowahhidoon - Mowahhidoon is the proper designation for those often called incorrectly the Druze or Druse. The Mowahhidoon are a fiercely independent group concentrated in Lebanon around the base of Mount Hermon, and in the mountains behind Beirut and Sidon. A few villages are also located on the Golan Heights, in Syria and just inside the Northern border of Israel. Very little information is certain about the Mowahhidoon. The faith started in the 9th Century CE as a break-away group from Islam. Darazi (a preacher) and Hamza ibn Ali ibn Ahmad (a Persian mystic) were instrumental in popularizing the religion. They announced that God had manifested himself in human form as al-Hakim Bi-amr Allah, (985 or 996-1021 CE), a Muslim caliph from Cairo Egypt. They now believe that Darazi started to distort the message; his writings are now considered blasphemous. They refer to themselves as Mowahhidoon (plural) or Mowahhid (singular) which means "monotheistic". Unfortunately, the rest of the world tends to refer to them as "Druze" or "Druse", a name derived from their fallen preacher Darazi. After the death of their leader Baha al-Din in 1031 CE, their religion became exclusive: they do not accept converts; they do not marry other than fellow Druse; they do not leave the faith. They currently total about 200 to 300 thousand members. The Druse keep their religion secret, and often pose as members of the locally dominant religion. Mudras - Hand gestures that direct energies through the body MultiCulturalism - MultiLogue - Conversation between many usually over a significant period of time. MultiNational Corporatism - Multiple Intelligences - Developed in the early and mid 80s by Howard Gardner, professor of education at Harvard University, the theory of multiple intelligences consistently amazes me with its ability to serve as a template in constructing strategies for student success. The original seven proposed were intelligences, briefly described, are: Linguistic: the intelligence of words; Logical-Mathematical: the intelligence of numbers and reasoning; Spatial: the intelligence of pictures and images; Musical: the intelligence of tone, rhythm, and timbre; Bodily-Kinesthetic: the intelligence of the whole body and the hands; Intrapersonal: the intelligence of social interactions; Interpersonal: the intelligence of self-knowledge but also, ("as I move the Seven Levels . . . I speculate the Eighth . . .", Patti Smith) Environmental Intelligence; Patterning Correspondences and/or Symbolic Intelligence. Multiple Personality - . Multiple Time - . MultiVerse - The composite of all extant Universes. Mummuist - 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 as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. My Heart is as a Feather Veil - When the term My Heart is as a Feather Veil is used in reference to a Magickal Implement, Sacred Object, Ceremonial Tool and/or Focus it generally refers to the Royal Blue Veil of Emotion and Honour. Mycenaean - 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 which holds teachings originating in and/or interpolations thereon as a primary or critical parameter of their Spiritual Paradigm. On the Linear B tablets from both Knossos and the mainland of Greece we find many deities that are familiar to us from Greek religion of the Classical world: Zeus, Hera, Poseidon, Hermes, Eleithyia, the Furies (although here we have only one and in Classical times they were generally thought of as a group). Also, many of the places that were sacred in Classical times are listed here as sanctuaries, for example, Mount Dikte, Mount Ida and Amnisos. Finally, one of the festivals, the festival of the New Wine, may be the predecessor of the Classical Anthesteria, a three-day festival that was centered around the opening and drinking of that season's new wine. There are also some elements that do not show up in Classical religion, such as the Priestess of the Winds and many of the deities who receive gifts on Tn 316 (e.g., Dopotas, Manasa). On other tablets we see deities whose names are not Greek, and therefore most likely represent deities that have actually been taken into Mycenaean religion from the Minoan pantheon. Finally, some deities seem to have changed. For instance in the Bronze Age we actually have a sanctuary for Daedalus while in Classical times he was definitely thought of as a mortal. It is interesting that here on Fp 1 we have the name of the Mistress of the Animals (Therasia), but in Classical times this goddess seems to be subsumed into Artemis, who (by the way) we also find in the tablets. Thus, many changes occurred between the time of the tablets (1200 B.C.) and the historical Greek period (c. 750 B.C.). For one thing, it seems as if many of the deities that were Minoan get dropped. Others though, like the Mistress of the Animals, seem to be incorporated into the Olympian pantheon. It seems then that the Mycenaeans did pick up some of the elements of Minoan religion, and some of these may even have been transported through the Dark ages to Classical times. But it is clear from the tablets that the Mycenaeans had a well-developed religious system of their own which constituted the basis from which Classical religion was formed. Myomancy - A type of divination by the color and movement of mice A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Mysomancy - A type of divination commencing with covering onself with dirt or mud A general Divinatory System list with short definitions Mystical Gnostic - unification with or absorption into the divine Mythopoeic Imagination - When used in reference to the field of Analytical Psychology the myth-making imagination characteristic of primitive mentality but also, according to Jung, of the unconscious. It is to be contrasted with the discursive and directed thought of consciousness. It appears in non-directed fantasy thinking and dream images, and reflects the preconscious archetypal structure of the psyche.
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