As we go deeper into the darkest side of the year, there is a spirit we have all heard about, have been accused of worshiping, and that has been the source of so much controversy. Should we as witches have any relationship with Baphomet? Should we include Them in our altars and practice? I found my answers reading Baphomet: History, Ritual & Magic of the World's Most Famous Occult Icon, by Michael Osiris Snuffin, with a foreword by Kate Freuler. Thanks to the publisher for the copy to review!
- Publication Date: April 8, 2025.
- Print Length: 208 pages.
- Publisher: Llewellyn Publications.
- Genres: Folklore, Mythology, Non-Fiction, Occultism, Paganism.
- Rating: 5/5 stars.
Explore the History and Mysteries of BaphometDiscover the identity of Baphomet, how They have evolved through history, and how to work with Them in your occult practice. Michael Osiris Snuffin traces the evolution of Baphomet through the works of Éliphas Lévi, Aleister Crowley, and other diverse practitioners to document how a mysterious name associated with the trial of the Templars became a modern Pagan deity in the late twentieth century.Snuffin introduces you to the three symbolic faces of Baphomet: the Spirit of the Earth, the Outsider, and the Transmuter. He also shows you how to build a relationship with Baphomet through meditation, ritual, and invocation. Most importantly, Snuffin reveals the true purpose of this enigmatic deity: to influence us to change our ways and heal the planet instead of harming it.
I was curious about Baphomet for a long time, ever since I was new to Witchcraft, but the associations were just too strong for me to actually care to learn anything. However, as time passed, I felt more and more intrigued about this figure. Michael Osiris Snuffin provided answers to all the questions I had before, including more that came to the surface as I read! There is no rock unmoved or idea dismissed; everything gets a good exploration and explanation.
While not rigorously academic in shape and form, Baphomet gets very close to the spot that I like for research books. It hits that sweet spot between scholarly and personal account that I enjoy so much! Not to mention that it is also fairly brief, although full of useful content for those interested or curious about working with this modern Pagan deity.
Although some chapters felt denser than others due to repetition, each one explored a different aspect essential to building a modern practice as well. From the history and controversies surrounding this figure, to the symbolism, associations, and practices, Michael Osiris Snuffin did a good job at introducing us to the lore behind the (in)famous figure.
All in all, Baphomet is a book fairly easy to follow along with, but I strongly suggest reading it a second time to follow the practices and ideas it presents. My first reading was to get familiar with the figure, to help me decide if I wanted to start practicing with Them or not. The second is to guide you as you give those practices a try. However, a word of caution here: Make sure you are not conditioned by the popular associations, but consider the rich history behind Baphomet instead.
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