Meditation on the Tree
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In my studies, I have come across several references to visualizations in regards to the Tree of Life, i.e. colours, symbols, Angels, et al.
Obviously, these visualizations are 'seen' via meditation, but is there some technique to it, specifically?
For example, I've seen reference to students being asked to 'go' to a specific path on the Tree and report what he 'sees' there. Where can I find detailed instruction on this technique, indeed, does such a text exist?
This technique is most assuredly beyond my ability, as I am but a beginner in the practical aspects of the Mysteries, but I believe it is something that will aid my study in the future and something I'd like to learn after I bring my meditation to a reasonable level.
I am aware that there is also danger involved in this manner of work, but not the full extent of that danger.
If there is some noteworthy text that offers direction in this regard, I'd be most grateful to learn of it.
Many thanks.
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@photogasm said
"For example, I've seen reference to students being asked to 'go' to a specific path on the Tree and report what he 'sees' there. Where can I find detailed instruction on this technique, indeed, does such a text exist?"
You can find somewhat detailed instructions on this in Regardie's Golden Dawn and a few other books. Generally, though, this is taught person-to-person within the context of a specific training system (e.g., within the 1=10 Grade of A.'.A.'. or the Second Order work of Temple of Thelema - just to name two).
The base instructions are given in Liber O - ordoaa.org/pdf/l006.pdf - I've always thought that these benefitted from (and usually require) supplemental instruction. Crowley mentioned a couple of times in Magick Without Tears and elsewhere that he usually taught these techniques one-on-one - although he does give some insightful notes in M.W.T.
"This technique is most assuredly beyond my ability, as I am but a beginner in the practical aspects of the Mysteries, but I believe it is something that will aid my study in the future and something I'd like to learn after I bring my meditation to a reasonable level."
I agree that this is the primary practice that will take theory and turn it into actually knowing the subject.
"I am aware that there is also danger involved in this manner of work, but not the full extent of that danger."
If you are in basically good health, the dangers are primarily psychological. They are roughly equivalent to the risks of a very s trong, fairly bad acid trip if something goes wrong; meaning, it won't kill you but it can definitely screw with your head seriously for a few years.
"If there is some noteworthy text that offers direction in this regard, I'd be most grateful to learn of it."
I gave a couple of recommendations above. I do think it best that this be pursued while under the tutelage of a teacher who has extensive experience walking the same path.