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Originally Posted by spiritualll
What is the difference between esoterism and occultism?
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There is some overlap between esotericism and occultism. Perhaps we can say that esotericism concerns understanding the theory while occultism relates to applying the theory in practice. But the difference is not clear-cut.
Traditionally esotericism is inner knowledge, revealed to the select few. The opposite is exotericism, or outer knowledge, known to the general public.
This may apply to religious philosophies such as Buddhism. Exoteric Buddhism is that which is understood and practised by ordinary people. Esoteric Buddhism would refer to knowledge and practices revealed to those deemed ready for such knowledge.
Occultism refers to that which is hidden, such as learning to work with the hidden laws of nature to manipulate energies for particular purposes.
The occultist works on the mental plane, using concentration and visualisation to generate thought-forms. These thought-forms then manifest on the astral plane where they are imbued with the magnetic vitality of the emotions before manifesting on the etheric planes. If the preceding work has been done properly and the timing is right then the thought-forms of the occultist manifest in the physical world.
Mysticism traditionally concerns the path of seeking union with the Divine, whatever form that might take. The mystical approach is often based on emotional yearning which is a reflection of spiritual aspiration.
Which brings us back to
blossomingsoull97's question about books on mysticism. Which aspects of mysticism are you drawn to? Western mysticism (which is often based on Christianity)? Eastern mysticism? You may want to look into the Sufis - "
The Way of the Sufis" by Idries Shah is a good place to start.
Peace.