The Orphic Holodemiurgia (Creation of the Whole) is a contemplative practice or exercise rooted in ancient Mediterranean spiritual practices attributed to ancient spiritual masters, especially Orpheus, Pythagoras, Pherekydes, and Empedocles. By means of this exercise the practitioner takes themself through the emanation of the Whole—both spirit and matter—descending from the First Principle into the depths of material manifestation, and then ascending again from primordial chaos toward reunification in the Ineffable One, and finally returning to ordinary life in a state of integrated being. The first stage, the Descent, draws down divine power; the second, the Ascent, draws up earthly power. Part I of this book presents the directions for practicing the Orphic Holodemiurgia. Part II presents provides extensive commentary to enhance one’s understanding of the practice and how it works. It also shows its roots in ancient philosophy and spirituality as a source of further enrichment. Appendices present the useful Olympic Banishing Ritual (for purifying the ritual space) along with extensive explanatory notes.
