VIC Esoteric Society

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About the Esoteric Society

In the latter part of 1987, a small group of staff members got together with a qualified astrologer on a private basis to learn a little about the fascinating world of astrology. From the enthusiasm of this small group, and the ensuing interest of friends and colleagues, it became apparent that the formation of an official Astrology Club would be a worthwhile venture.

The Club was founded in February 1988 and began to organize courses, lectures, excursions and workshops, as well as publishing a quarterly newsletter and establishing a small library. The membership grew and its interests diversified. As a result, in 1991 a decision was taken to change the name of the Club to the Esoteric Society. Since then, the Society's programme has expanded to cover a wide range of topics, including chakras, Bach flowers, tarot, angels, shiatsu, feng-shui. Over the last two years, in response to the demand of its members, the Society has also covered many health-related topics. Several world-famous personalities have given lectures and seminars for staff under the auspices of the Society, leaving behind them the feeling that some small contribution has been made to the well-being of those living and working in today's society.

The lectures organized by the Society are free of charge to members (the membership fee is 200 ATS per annual), but they are open to all staff and their dependants. Workshops are usually restricted to members.

The word "esoteric" and its meaning.

The word "esoteric" is often linked with parapsychology. It is also often associated with oriental religious and philosophical traditions. The dictionary defines "esoteric" as relating to that which is intended for, and understood by only those who have been specially initiated. Thus, students of esoteric disciplines have constantly been criticized for belonging to secret societies. In broad terms, one might define the esoteric as an exploration of non-rational modes of consciousness. Moreover, much esoteric thought is concerned with the attempt to view all life as a whole, the search for a universal explanation (much like modern physics!). But any definition will encounter opposition from some quarter!

As in any other area of life, not all that is on offer in the now highly commercialized esoterica market is genuine. Indeed, charlatans abound. Equally, many people do develop an unhealthy dependence on certain strands of esoteric thought. An interest in the esoteric should not become a form of escapism or an exotic ego trip. Rather, it should enrich and add depth to our lives and assist us in that universal human quest for meaning. The findings of science, orthodox medicine and psychology should have a place in the total picture.

It is also worth mentioning that chairs of parapsychology have been established at numerous universities throughout the world, and several respected figures in the world of science have taken a serious interest in esoteric teachings.