Definition

1. Noun:
   • A belief system centered on supernatural powers and the possibility of bringing them under human control: Occultism refers to the belief in hidden or secret forces, energies, or entities beyond the natural world, and the practices aimed at understanding, contacting, or manipulating these forces.
   • The study of the supernatural: It also denotes the systematic investigation, research, or intellectual pursuit of phenomena considered supernatural, mystical, or esoteric.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • His interest in astrology and alchemy was part of his deep engagement with occultism.
  • The library's special collection contains many historical texts on occultism and magic.
  • Some scholars distinguish between religion and occultism based on the latter's focus on personal mastery of hidden forces.

Advanced Usage

• "Western occultism": Often refers to the specific traditions of esoteric knowledge that developed in Europe, such as Hermeticism, Kabbalah, and ceremonial magic.
  • The Renaissance saw a significant revival of interest in Western occultism.
• "Modern occultism": Describes contemporary practices and beliefs that draw from or reinterpret historical occult traditions.
  • Modern occultism often incorporates elements from psychology and new age philosophies.

Variants and Related Words

• Occult (adj/n): Relating to matters regarded as involving the action or influence of supernatural agencies or secret knowledge. As a noun, it can refer to the realm of the occult.
  • They studied occult sciences.
• Occultist (n): A person who believes in or practices occultism.
  • The famous occultist wrote several books on the subject.

Synonyms

• Esotericism: The quality or state of being esoteric; knowledge intended for or understood by only a small group.
• Hermeticism: A philosophical and esoteric tradition based primarily on writings attributed to Hermes Trismegistus.
• Theosophy: A system of thought that claims insight into the nature of God and the world through direct mystical experience.

Related Phrases

• "Practices of occultism": Refers to the specific rituals, ceremonies, or disciplines undertaken within occultism.
  • The practices of occultism can include meditation, ritual magic, and divination.
• "History of occultism": The academic study of the development of occult ideas and movements through time.
  • She is writing her thesis on the history of occultism in the 19th century.

Noun

1. a belief in supernatural powers and the possibility of bringing them under human control
2. the study of the supernatural