Abramelin, The First Day

Why did I decide to jump right into this process before trying other, less intense or time consuming ritual Magick?  At first, I did so because many of the workings I read seemed to have the HGA invocation as part of the opening series of protections and to me, it seemed silly to invoke anything about which I had little to no knowledge.  Plus, I would later discover that there was a much greater reason why I chose to begin this work, at this stage of my life.  After all, ignorance and Magick just don't seem to be very good companions.  So, I made sure to choose and use the latest guide for the work--the Dehn version called "The Book of Abramelin."  It seemed to be the most appropriate for me, since there were historical context-setting explanations and there weren't too many things I would have to buy to make K&CHGA a reality.  I would discover that this process was actually a continuation of work I had already completed...I just needed to make sure I had all the necessary items to undertake the process as outlined in the Grimoire.

The following is combination of journal excerpts and clarifications to them:

Preparation:  I purchased everything I needed to make the "Oil of Abramelin" (per the Crowley recipe), incense, wand of pecan wood (purchased lathed and unfinished) and all other items.  Getting the scarlet colored silk was a challenge, but the white cotton for the robes was much easier.  The incense was easy to procure, although I added an additional ingredient* to it, for a more uplifting effect. The altar was smaller than usual, so I converted a night-table that had a drawer in which I put the items after closing, but with the addition of a covered box top, it had the appearance I sought  The room I used was perfect for the work--I specifically rented an apartment that had a room with its windows aligned properly--one in the east, one in the west.  Another thing that I was told to do, by a good friend that had already completed this process, was to pursue the work WITHOUT a preconceived name of my HGA; that would be revealed as the work entered the second phase.  I  would later discover that no preconceived notions should be had about anything, as few things happen as described in the book--some things are hidden purposely. 

The work:  Day one consists of a clearing of sorts and is unlike the other days.  Some simply omit this day's work, but in my opinion, that would have been totally contrary to the purpose of the work.  In my opinion, it offers the initiate an opportunity to make an accounting of himself to himself. I chose the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur to begin the working, for obvious reasons--not because I am a Jew or religious; it just felt right. Now to be quite honest, I wasn't in prayer from sun up until sundown, but I did make a full accounting to myself of all the things I felt I needed to.  It was all new.  The level of detail required to perform the Abramelin seemed above and beyond what one would normally do for other ritual workings.  I opened and closed as per the literature.

Impressions:  On day one, some things seemed silly and difficult to do with a straight face.  This was a phenomena that occurred only at the very beginning.  "Inflaming" myself "in prayer" was not easy to do either.  Dressing up in the appropriate attire and making sure the room was properly consecrated took a lot of time and it seemed unimportant.  Something else I found myself doing initially--clock watching; an hour of constant ritual is tough to pull-off at first.  I also found myself wondering why I decided to start a process that could last a year and a half.  It wouldn't be long before I discovered that the entire process works and unites one to himself--his higher-self, identifies his purpose and other things that I will discuss as this series progresses.  There were no epiphanies to talk about from day one, incidentally.

Demystifying the Mystical: Ritual Purification and Fasting [Part One]

Fasting is one of the most dreaded, misunderstood and improperly executed ritualistic endeavors made use of by practitioners of the Western Esoteric Tradition.  We make use of this process to prepare for a significant spiritual event.  By following a safe and reputable fasting protocol, the body detoxifies itself, the basal metabolic rate operates more efficiently and higher and aesthetically, it is definitely worth the effort.  More importantly, however, the process forces the individual to focus the Magickal Will with laser-like intensity on the mystical reason for the fast and it serves to demonstrate the individual’s sincerity to whatever the ultimate intent of the work may be.

The Seven Day Fast:  A Proven Protocol*

During the three days leading up to the fast, there should be no intake of large, heavy or greasy meals.  Avoid alcohol, caffeine and any other substance that could irritate the stomach, convert itself to a “bio-toxin” or slow digestion. 

Light exercise is a critical component of this fast.  One should continue with Yoga, Pilates and any other form of exercise that feels comfortable.  Eliminate heavy lifting, long runs or walks and any exercise that over-exerts the body and/or requires a greater intake of calories from whole food sources, during the fast. 

Finally, follow the adage, “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.”  Shower at least once a day using an aromatic soap.  This is a great way to wash away the toxins you excrete through your skin’s pores, satisfy your sense of smell (formerly occupied by the smell of food), and for the couple, a great way to become more intimate and make the process easier for the one fasting.  If you can, try to get a massage out of your significant other too, since it aids the detoxification process!

The Components

1 Bottle of Biotta Sauerkraut Juice

6 Bottles of Biotta Vegetable Cocktail Juice

1 Bottle of Nature’s Plus ReGeneration Softgel Vitamin Capsules

1 Bottle of Senakot, a Senna-based, natural (not chemical) laxative

1 Pur Water Pitcher

1 Notebook to document the effects you experience during the process

This concludes Part One.  In part two, I will provide you with the day by day, step by step fasting protocol and all related information you will need to safely and effectively undertake "The Seven Day Fast."*

*Disclaimer -- Neither the FDA nor any Medical Professional has evaluated this protocol.  Before dieting or fasting, always consult your Physician.  If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, nursing, have a compromised immune system, have been told that you should not fast or if you take prescription medication of any type, do not undertake any of the actions described herein.  Although I have personally completed this exact protocol many times with only positive effects, some may not be able to complete this process safely and effectively.  I assume no liability for any harm which may come from this or any other health related issue and present the information in this post purely for informational and entertainment purposes only.