Magical Interview with István Kolonics, artist and author I.

 Dear Reader,

I had a special experience recently. I had the opportunity to schedule a phone interview with István Kolonics, or as many of you might know him, by his pen name Yliaster Daleth. During this interview, I aimed to ask him questions that I'm sure you all would be eager to read his answers to.

This wasn't the first time I conducted an interview with someone of spiritual significance. I prepared as usual, wrote down my questions in advance, created an outline of possible answers leading to further questions, and then called him at the agreed-upon time.

I was prepared for the possibility of being caught off guard, so I introduced myself quickly and got to the point.

István kindly received my interest, which brought me great joy, as sometimes interviewees are not very cooperative, push back with counter-questions, and turning their words into a coherent piece that carries valuable content for the readers is not an easy task; it requires blood, sweat, and tears.

Now, even two weeks after the interview, I've only reached the point of summarizing, but not for the usual reasons. István turned out to be very talkative, informative, and in a very short time, it felt like we weren't just having a conversation between a blogger and an interviewee, but rather a discussion between two individuals deeply interested in spirituality, magic, and the arts. So, we quickly deviated from my prepared outline and within the framework of an informal conversation, we touched on those outline points not as mandatory directions but more as potential topics.

The Beginnings:

As always, my initial focus was on getting to know the person behind the books, understanding the mind that has placed these precious words on paper. What spirit hides within the body whose hands press the letters, revealing fragments of its soul? What were the motivations and who was he?

In the 1960s and 1970s, after completing his studies, István worked in the textile industry.

Weaving remained symbolically present throughout his life, as he created letters side by side just like weaving different elements, often using artistic precision to weave symbols into images. These symbols, like the inseparability of different threads, come together to form a perfect unity even today, just as Arachne's tapestries, in their colorful perfection that elevates the mind, heart, and soul, were worthy of the work of the gods.

I understood that for him, painting and writing are interconnected. He rarely put anything on paper without enriching it with complex symbols from various cultures in his graphical illustrations.

His first six books were written on a typewriter. He worked hard to gather credible information from the limited yet available local and foreign literature. He personally met with his first mentors, but with the help of his wife, they also translated foreign spellbooks, building his authentic and valuable magical knowledge which he shared with us through his books.

Since the beginning, István has been open to various spiritual paths. Thanks to his thirst for knowledge and rigorous research, he accessed Italian, English, Roman, Greek, and many other sources, incorporating the work and legacy of the great magicians of the past, such as Szerb Antal, Alaister Crowley, Paracelsus, Eliphas Levi, John Dee, and many more, in his work. Through these sources, he created a tapestry that became a defining literary treasure and source of inspiration in Hungarian, written during the time of the political transition and the years that followed.

He initially created his paintings using accessible materials like tempera or diluted paint, often gifting us with works influenced by Salvador Dali's surrealist style. Eventually, he developed his own style, recognized by its richness in symbols, clarity, and distinctiveness.

Creative Process, Symbolism, and Allegory:

The author's creative process is closely tied to the intersection of writing and visual representation, often enriched with the motif of self-portrayal. When a new idea emerges, he frequently incorporates himself into the illustrations, resulting in both written texts and series of images.

The interpretation of many of his images becomes complete only with a deeper knowledge of mythology, as different elements from various cultures often come together in a single image, complementing and enriching each other. Understanding a complex depiction sometimes requires acknowledging and considering the background of the associated book or text.

István doesn't underestimate the work involved. Due to his extensive interests, he might use an Egyptian symbol to represent a written element from Greek mythology, Hebrew mysticism, or Nordic culture.

During the creative process, he sketches, mentally constructs how and in what form he wants to communicate, seeks logical connections, and cares about both satisfying the reader and providing entertainment in the final work. However, he never compromises the content or formal quality of the piece for the sake of the reader's experience.

Philosophy:

István believes that magic doesn't work in this world on the plane of consciousness, so every magician needs to undergo a state of consciousness transformation. During our conversation, we noted that countless effective techniques have been developed over millennia by various indigenous cultures. These techniques could involve breathing exercises, DMT yoga, physical or mental control, the use of herbs, music, rhythm, dance, or combinations thereof. To work magic effectively, a magician needs to travel to the realm of magic through altered states of consciousness, where they can perform their magical work.

During our conversation, we touched on many areas. Personally, I believe that based on my own experience, what truly sets a magician apart from an ordinary person is their mastery over their body, mind, emotions, and will before attempting to influence the universe or harness its energies. They must naturally control those aspects.

It's not about the path or the method, but about having a capital 'W' WILL of the magician, practicing it, and consciously directing it. Through this, we can bring what we create in our alternative reality, over which we hold dominion, into the everyday world. Altered consciousness is required to step into the subtle plane of the world, much like the antechamber to the world's end.

The deeper one goes into this world, the more effectively magic works. A true magician doesn't require consciousness-altering substances; they can shift their consciousness at will.

Affiliations - Conclusion:

I initially planned for a brief and strictly "professional" conversation, but during our nearly ninety-minute call, time seemed to stretch to infinity, much like in a well-cast spell circle. I'm confident we could have easily talked through the night. There's so much more I could mention, but as I recently told my friends on another topic, "a blog post in 2023 has serious length constraints. Even in the most abundant mental pasture on the internet, people don't want to linger too long."

I also find it important to mention that István has been a member of several spiritual societies in Hungary. He founded many of them himself.

Currently, with great pride, I share that he's among the leaders of the Order of Golden Dragons, and I feel that I'll confidently turn to him in the future at points where my knowledge might need supplementation or where the opinion of a more experienced magician or artist could be of help. Because we are all stars: magic and art are one. But now, as I try to conclude my words, I might want to add one more thing: I feel that he's a particularly bright star among us, and I hope he stays with us for a long time, guiding us with his wisdom as he has done through his books for so many years!

The images featured in this article are the creations of the artist mentioned in the title.

Bright Blessings,

Atomm

To be continued...

Exploring Death in Spirituality and Paganism: A Journey Through Various Forms of Afterlife Beliefs

Introduction

Death, the inevitable conclusion to every human existence, has been a subject of contemplation, fear, and curiosity for millennia. Across cultures and spiritual traditions, the concept of what happens after death varies widely. In the realm of spirituality and paganism, diverse beliefs about the afterlife offer a unique perspective on the journey beyond mortality. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of death within these frameworks, shedding light on the fascinating and often mysterious visions of the afterlife.

Death in Paganism: An Eclectic Tapestry

Paganism, with its rich tapestry of beliefs and practices, encompasses a wide range of afterlife concepts. One of the common threads among pagan traditions is the cyclical nature of existence. Many pagans believe in reincarnation, where the soul passes through a series of lives to learn and evolve. This idea, prevalent in various pagan paths, emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms and the ongoing pursuit of spiritual growth.

In Norse paganism, the concept of Valhalla and Hel are prominent. Valhalla, a majestic hall where fallen warriors are taken by the valkyries, represents a heroic afterlife of feasting and battle. On the other hand, Hel is a realm associated with a more tranquil existence for those who did not die in combat. These differing destinations mirror the complexity of life and death in the Norse tradition.

Celtic paganism also offers a unique perspective. The belief in the Otherworld, a mystical realm existing parallel to our own, is a recurring theme. This realm is often associated with fairies, ancestors, and deities. The Celts viewed death as a passage into this Otherworld, where the soul continues its journey, guided by the spirits of the departed.

Spirituality's Quest for Liberation

Spirituality, with its focus on personal growth, inner transformation, and connection to a higher power, presents a diverse range of views on the afterlife. Eastern spiritual traditions such as Hinduism and Buddhism emphasize the concept of karma and reincarnation. In Hinduism, the soul (atman) undergoes a series of births and deaths until it achieves liberation (moksha) and reunites with the divine (Brahman).

Buddhism, while also rooted in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, seeks to break the cycle through enlightenment (nirvana). This liberation from suffering and desire is the ultimate goal, leading the individual towards a state of eternal bliss beyond the cycle of reincarnation.

In contrast, Western spiritual traditions like Christian mysticism often focus on the union of the soul with the divine. The concept of heaven and hell is prevalent, where virtuous souls are rewarded with eternal paradise, while those who stray from righteousness face eternal damnation. Mystical experiences and communion with the divine are central to these traditions, offering a glimpse into a transcendent afterlife.

Beyond Dualities: Non-Dualistic Views

Non-dualistic spiritual philosophies challenge conventional notions of the afterlife. Advaita Vedanta, a Hindu philosophy, emphasizes the oneness of the individual soul (Atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman). In this view, the cycle of birth and death is an illusion, and true liberation is achieved by realizing the underlying unity of all existence.

Similarly, in certain pagan paths and modern spiritual movements, a belief in interconnectedness and unity transcends the limitations of a traditional afterlife. Some practitioners embrace the idea that the afterlife is not a fixed destination, but rather a continuation of the cosmic dance of existence.

Conclusion

The diverse array of afterlife beliefs in spirituality and paganism reflects the complexity of human thought and our quest to understand the mysteries of death and existence. From cycles of reincarnation to realms of heroes, from transcendental union to non-dualistic unity, each perspective offers a unique lens through which to explore the nature of life beyond the mortal coil. While these beliefs may differ, they all share a common thread: the yearning for meaning, connection, and transformation in the face of mortality. As we continue to seek answers about what lies beyond, the rich tapestry of afterlife beliefs in spirituality and paganism reminds us of the enduring human need to explore the mysteries that lie beyond the threshold of death.

Exploring the Spiritual Essence of Love: Unveiling Its Mystical Threads

Introduction: In the realm of nature spiritualists, love is not merely an emotion; it's a profound force that weaves through the tapestry of existence, connecting all living beings in a harmonious dance with the cosmos. Rooted in ancient traditions and beliefs, the perspective of earth spiritual people on love delves deep into the interconnectedness of life, the divine, and the natural world. Join us on a journey as we unravel the enigmatic essence of love through a spiritual lens. 

  The Sacred Bond: Nature spiritualists celebrate the interconnectedness of all things, emphasizing the sacred bond between humans, nature, and the divine. Love, in this context, is seen as the binding force that unites us with the energies of the universe. Just as the cycles of the moon and the seasons of the Earth are interwoven, so too is the love that flows through us – a continuous, unending thread that links our souls with the very essence of existence. 

  Deities of Love: In the spiritual realm, various deities embody the multifaceted aspects of love. The Goddess Aphrodite, with her irresistible allure, symbolizes sensual and romantic love, while Eros represents the passionate, primal urge that ignites within us. Freyja, the Norse goddess of love and fertility, reminds us of the deep connection between love and the natural world. By invoking these deities and recognizing their influences, earth spiritual people embrace the diverse forms of love and channel them into their lives.

Love for Nature: Nature spiritualists revere the Earth as a sacred entity, recognizing its beauty, power, and vitality. The love for nature is intertwined with spiritual beliefs, as each element of the natural world is considered a manifestation of divine energy. The wind's gentle caress, the whispering trees, and the babbling brooks all resonate with the rhythm of the universe. Through this bond, earth spiritual people learn to love not only the world around them but also themselves, as they are an integral part of this cosmic dance. 

  Rituals of Love: Spiritual rituals often incorporate elements that symbolize love and connection. The act of sharing food and drink, lighting candles, and offering herbs and flowers are ways to honor the spirits and energies that envelop us. Handfasting ceremonies, a tradition that celebrates marriage, bind partners together in the presence of the divine and nature, emphasizing the sacredness of their love journey.

Self-Love and Empowerment: Earth spiritual people encourage individuals to cultivate self-love and empowerment, recognizing their own worthiness and divine essence. By nurturing a deep love for oneself, they create a strong foundation from which they can extend love to others and the world around them. The practice of meditation, self-reflection, and connecting with one's inner wisdom are essential tools for fostering self-love within the spiritual path.

Conclusion: In the intricate tapestry of spiritual beliefs, love stands as a cornerstone that unites humanity, nature, and the divine. Through the worship of deities, the reverence for nature, and the practice of self-love, those who walk the path of earth spirituality infuse their lives with the essence of love in its myriad forms. As we embrace the spiritual perspective on love, we uncover the enchanting threads that tie us to the universe, igniting our spirits and guiding us on a profound journey of connection