The Philosophy of Dark Paganism: Wisdom & Magick to Cultivate the Self

by Frater Tenebris

Discover a New, Life-Changing Spiritual Paradigm Look inward. Explore the shadows. Honor your Divine Self and elevate it to a higher state of being. Frater Tenebris introduces you to Dark Paganism, a deeply personal and individualized philosophy that focuses on transformation and shadow work. He guides you through the nine Dark Pagan principles, which help you develop a version of yourself flourishing in all that you do. Ranging from self-knowledge and acceptance to magick and environmental mastery, the Dark Pagan principles show how to build confidence, trust yourself, and create a meaningful life. You'll also delve into Dark Pagan ethics and how to improve your relationships and community by knowing yourself better. Featuring detailed research and self-reflection questions for each chapter, this book supports your journey of personal evolution. Includes a foreword by John J. Coughlin, author of Out of the Shadows

Genres: Paganism, Spirituality, Philosophy

302 pages, Paperback

Published October 8, 2022

Reviews

[Jaime · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was drawn to this book by the title. I have read many fictional stories that feature paganism, druidism, and wicca - I always am curious about how the authors of these stories present said philosophy versus others interpretations of the same concepts. This book looked to be an interesting book and I enjoy learning about different religions, philosophy, cultural norms, and discovering how these things began, how they have been altered or corrupted, and what they are like today. So I requested to review. I was able to read through 50% of the book without any issues, 25% was able to be read after getting over the formatting, and I totally skipped the other 25% because the. formatting was awful.

After thinking about the parts I read, my thoughts are this:
▪️The author seems knowledgeable and provides sources for content.
▪️There was a lot of information in the book that when formatted correctly is likely presented in an organized manner.
▪️Philosophy, Religion, and Cultural beliefs are highly personal and open to various interpretations.

I recommend going into any book like this with an open mind …

3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️

📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from the author/publisher via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are cross-posted to social media, goodreads, and blog. 🦄

[Running With Wolves · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was excited about the book but the intro and going into it the book dimmed the excitement. Some opinions are given that are stated as fact; at least, that is the tone I got from it. Instead of pulling me in, the farther I read, the more I did not want to read. This would not be a book I would recommend to anyone who was wanting to know more about dark paganism.

[Katerina Sarpione · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read "Dark Paganism" some months ago, and it stayed with me as one of those rare books that approach magic through a philosophical lens. That in itself makes it stand apart in our times.

The Neoplatonic influence is undeniable, and for me personally, it raises the question of whether a new term such as “dark paganism” is really necessary. Still, what Frater Tenebris offers here is not just theory, but a slow, carefully woven insight into his own practice, beliefs, and magic, leading the reader on a journey of their own self-reflection. The overall experience feels participatory rather than distant and I think many modern practitioners can benefit from it.

Rather than sensational rituals or shadowy theater, the author’s approach is honest, clear-eyed, and transformative. As a folk practitioner myself (and a fan of ancient philosophy), I found this grounded and philosophical tone refreshing. It must be mentioned, that those who expect “dark rituals like the ones in movies” may be disappointed, but if they approach the book with open mind, they might discover something far more profound.

If you're drawn toward magic that seeks truth rather than theatrics, and you welcome introspection more than spectacle, "The Philosophy of Dark Paganism" is a rewarding and rare gem.

[LittleRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Paganism, it sounds dark, evil and scary to some, but it's not. Really! Trust me. Well, Trust Frater Tenebris. This is really more about facing our dark shadows and being true to ourselves, once we find who we truly are. We all have our own beliefs, even in a single religious group, we often have some things we see differently. If you want to be true to yourself, you find your own beliefs and stick to them, making yourself the best version of yourself you can be.

Dark Paganism isn't a religion, mind you, it's a philosophy and one that you will use to become your truest self. For centuries we have been afraid of the "Dark" rather than facing it head on. This is what Dark Paganism will explain to you as you read through. This book is so much more than you may think it is from just reading the title. If you have read this far and have read the extract for the book, you're interested and I will say reading it will definitely answer your questions and shed light upon the dark.

[Liz(ard) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! Having conversation around the historical context philosophical of concepts is essential for unpacking them. I particularly appreciate the drawing of similarities, or dissimilarities, to other religions. Being interested in East Asian philosophies myself, I found it helpful that Tenebris did include why paganism differs from Buddhism and Confucianism. I refer to the writing as conversation because it felt like just that. Most philosophical writing is dense, it’s hard to get through and understand what the writing itself is trying to say. Not that we don’t appreciate philosophy, but we do need a cup of coffee/tea to keep our eyes open and our minds alert. This book didn’t feel like that, it felt like a casual conversation from a well-informed perspective. The ideas discussed in the book, from increasing self awareness to magnum opus, can seem relatively unapproachable to a novice pagan. The conversational writing and attention paid to context seemed to bridge that gap. I will say there were things I wish the author expanded on, ESPECIALLY the concept of corpospirituality and how it differs from animist spirituality. It’s hard to find what you’re looking for asking google about the divine being imminent. I do, however, appreciate the supplementary reading throughout the book as well as the end. If anyone is looking for an easily understood guide to dark paganism and the shadow self, I will definitely recommend this!

[Franciekat · Rating 3 out of 5]

The writing and exploration of philosophy made this an intellectually satisfying read. It's evident the author has put a lot of time and thought into what constitutes Dark Paganism. I found the respectful tone when discussing viewpoints he disagreed with refreshing.

What didn't work for me was the constant polarizing references to black and white. The other thing that turned me off is Dark Paganism, as espoused by the author, is basically the American dream sugarcoated in magick. However, that likely could be very appealing to a lot of readers.

The best part of the book is the questions for reflection at the end of each chapter. I think they'd be valuable to any Pagan.

[Lazarone · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book basic teachings of the left-hand path are very well and lucidly explained, and even discussion is going kinda too deep. However, I found that in the few statements, texts contradict to itself, so few aspects need more clarification. An interesting book and it is great that Llewellyn is publishing this kind of books, about classic "left-hand path".

[JadersCorner · Rating 5 out of 5]

NetGalley Arc

Authentic, honest, safe practice material. So refreshing. So much information packed into a big book. It had all the qualities I require to recommend and so many more. If you pick any book about this topic, recommend this as your bible go to and branch off from this.

[Fredrick Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

It's a great beginning book on dark
paganism. This resonated with my particular beliefs and practices. So much information that will help anyone on this path.