What areas of study do you consider key for an occultist?

[Malchir]

Foundational. A desirable and crucial goal is building a comprehensive foundation for the entire scope (high magic, Kabbalah, demonology, ethics, Gnosticism, and practical psychology), this requires a careful curriculum. The following list is curated to be progressive, interlocking, and grounded in reputable, primary-source-based works. Start from the top and work your way down.

1. The Way of the Explorer by Dr. Edgar Mitchell
2. The Mystical Qabalah by Dion Fortune
3. The Doors of Perception & Heaven and Hell by Aldous Huxley
4. Modern Magick: Twelve Lessons in the High Magickal Arts by Donald Michael Kraig
5. The Essential Golden Dawn by Chic Cicero and Sandra Tabatha Cicero (Reference Material)
6. Liber Null & Psychonaut by Peter J. Carroll
7. The Gnostic Religion by Hans Jonas
8. The Discernment of Spirits by Timothy M. Gallagher
9. Prometheus Rising by Robert Anton Wilson
10. The Secret Teachings of All Ages by Manly P. Hall (Life Long Reference Material)

This curriculum will not make you an Adept in a year. But it will give you an unshakeable, balanced, and wise foundation that protects you from folly, fanaticism, and fraud. It addresses the spiritual, practical, philosophical, and psychological pillars of whichever path you may choose. This will anchor you and prevent you from getting lost in the weeds.

 

[Pixi]

Jungian shadow - as the axion suggests "know thyself". Understanding your triggers and the basic framework of your internal self is a great asset to aiding any occult work.

 

[ragingmagus]

meditation, planetary associations, focused attention, ritual work and part of that protection, and understanding of history and occult/religious practices throughout i feel is helpful... from there really whatever floats your boat