HERMETICS AND THE WESTERN MYSTERY TRADITION

Embark on a journey of esoteric discovery with Western Mysteries. My classes offer an exploration into Occult traditions, Hermetics, and Ancient History. Join me to deepen your understanding of this fascinating branch of philosophy and connect with like-minded individuals.

What makes this class unique

This History and Archaeology class offers unique insights and perspectives by focusing on the rich tapestry of the religious cults of the Ancient World, Greek Hermetic Philosophy, the Work of Carl Jung and the power these archetypes and symbols have today for self-development and a greater understanding of  ourselves. 

Ancient Egyptian Origins

Hermetics developed from the spiritual and philosophical traditions of ancient Ancient Egypt and Babylonia. These civilizations made major advances in subjects such as mathematics, engineering, astronomy, and early science, while also exploring deep questions about life, death, the universe, and the nature of the physical world. Hermetic ideas grew out of these traditions and evolved over time, including influences from the religious practices connected with the god Amun and later the monotheistic reforms of the pharaoh Akhenaten. Studying this development helps us understand how Hermetic thought gradually formed from these ancient cultures.

Western Mysteries

The term 'Western Mysteries' describes philosophical and spiritual traditions that developed in Europe and the Mediterranean world. This is in contrast with the 'Eastern Mysteries', which come from Eastern cultures, such as China, India, and Japan.The ancient Greeks—particularly Pythagoras and Plato—were pioneers in developing philosophy as a formal subject, as well as laying the foundations for mathematics and geometry. Through the writings of the Greeks, the ideas of Hermeticism were eventually passed down to the Medieval world.

The Work of Carl Jung

One of the most important modern influences on Hermetic philosophy is the work of the pioneering psychologist Carl Jung. Jung explored how humans understand the world through symbols and archetypes, which shape our behaviour and identity. His idea of the Collective Unconscious suggests that people share deep psychological patterns and experiences across cultures and throughout history. Jung’s work offers insight into what it means to be human and why we think and act the way we do, and we will explore Jungian ideas and their connection to history in a dedicated lesson.

Who Should Attend?

Our classes are designed for everyone, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts and magical practitioners, including all age groups who possess a genuine desire to learn more about Occult philosophy, Hermetics, and the Western Mysteries tradition.

What You Will Learn

  • The Kybalion and the 7 Key Principles of Hermetics
  • Ancient Egyptian Origins
  • Pythagoras and the Greek Mystics
  • Christianity - the Gnosis and Hermeticism 
  • Judiasm and Hermeticism - the Kaballah
  • John Dee, the Magic of Angels and Medieval Hermetic Traditions
  • The 19th century - The Golden Dawn and the Druids
  • The 20th century - The Natural Wisdom of Neo-Paganism
  • Carl Jung and the Powers of Archetypes and Symbols
  • The Power of the Imagination - Visualisation and Meditation
  • The Universe is Vibration - the Power of Sound and Atoms
  • The Power of the Mind - The nature of our 'True Will' and Positive Change

Class Costs and Enrolment

Our classes are structured as a ten-week series, personally taught by Jim Bennett. This format allows for in-depth exploration and engagement with the material, fostering a supportive learning environment with extensive slide presentations.

Introductory taster lesson: Thursday 26th March 2026 at 6:30 to 7:30; £5 at the door/£3 students and on benefit;

Full course (10 weeks) commences on 2nd April from 6:30 to 8:30:
£8 per lesson/£5 concession. Paypal & BACs details will be supplied on enrolment. 

Tea making facilities are present as well as limited parking. 

For further information and to put your name on the register, contact me at:

bennett333@sky.com