The Archaic Revival

The Archaic Revival

Definition

The Archaic Revival is a concept popularized by author and philosopher Terence McKenna, referring to a cultural movement that seeks to reconnect with ancient, pre-modern ways of thinking, living, and being. It advocates for a return to the values, wisdom, and practices of earlier, often pre-industrial societies, with an emphasis on spirituality, ecological balance, and communal living. The idea is that by revisiting the archaic past, humanity can rediscover lost knowledge and healing practices that are more aligned with the natural world and human consciousness.

The Archaic Revival emerged in the late 20th century as a response to the alienation, materialism, and disconnection that many felt in modern, industrialized societies. McKenna, along with other thinkers like Carl Jung and Joseph Campbell, argued that modernity had led to a disconnection from deeper, more meaningful ways of life.

The term "archaic" refers to the ancient or primitive, often drawing from indigenous cultures, pre-Christian spiritual practices, and early human history. The "revival" aspect suggests that there is wisdom in these old ways that has been forgotten or suppressed, and that by returning to them, we can find a path to healing, self-awareness, and a more balanced relationship with the Earth and the cosmos.

In esoteric traditions, the Archaic Revival is seen as a return to the mystical and spiritual practices of ancient cultures, where ritual, nature, and a direct connection to the divine were central aspects of life. This movement is often linked to the idea of reclaiming lost knowledge, such as shamanic practices, sacred geometry, and the use of plant medicines.

In esoteric and occult traditions, the Archaic Revival represents a return to the "primordial" or "sacred" knowledge that existed before the rise of organized religions and institutions. It is about rediscovering the deep spiritual wisdom that was once widely known and practiced by ancient cultures.

Shamanism and Plant Medicine: One of the key elements of the Archaic Revival is the resurgence of interest in shamanic practices, including the use of plant medicines like ayahuasca, peyote, and psilocybin mushrooms. These substances were used by ancient cultures to induce altered states of consciousness and connect with the divine.

Sacred Geometry and Cosmology: The Archaic Revival also embraces the study of sacred geometry and the understanding of the cosmos as a spiritual system. Ancient cultures often used sacred geometry to build temples, pyramids, and other structures that were believed to align with cosmic forces and energies.

Ritual and Ceremony: The revival of ritualistic practices is another important aspect of this movement. Ancient rituals, often centered around the cycles of nature, the elements, and the cosmos, are seen as a way to reconnect with the divine and to align oneself with the greater flow of existence.

In practical terms, the Archaic Revival encourages individuals to reconnect with nature, engage in spiritual practices, and embrace a lifestyle that is more in tune with the rhythms of the Earth and the cosmos. This might involve spending more time in nature, practicing meditation or shamanic journeying, and learning from ancient spiritual traditions.

For example, one might incorporate plant medicine or ritual into their spiritual practice, exploring the use of sacred plants to enhance consciousness and deepen their connection to the divine.

The Archaic Revival also calls for a re-evaluation of modern values and priorities. It encourages people to question the materialistic, consumer-driven culture that dominates much of modern life and to seek alternative ways of living that are more sustainable, holistic, and spiritually fulfilling.

In practical terms, this might involve adopting a more ecologically conscious lifestyle, engaging in community-building activities, or exploring the mystical traditions of ancient cultures, such as shamanism, astrology, or alchemy.

Connection to Other Terms

• Shamanism: The Archaic Revival shares much with shamanic traditions, which often emphasize direct experiences of the divine, the use of plant medicine, and the practice of ritual.

• Sacred Geometry: The study of sacred geometry is an important part of the Archaic Revival, as it seeks to understand the hidden patterns and structures of the universe.

• Plant Medicine: The use of plant medicines to alter consciousness and connect with the divine is a central aspect of the Archaic Revival, especially in the context of indigenous practices.

• Occultism: The Archaic Revival is connected to occultism in its exploration of hidden or esoteric knowledge, including ancient spiritual practices and mystical teachings.

From an alchemical perspective, the Archaic Revival can be seen as a process of spiritual transmutation. Just as the alchemist seeks to transform base materials into gold, the seeker of the Archaic Revival seeks to transform modern, disconnected consciousness into a more sacred and enlightened state.

In spiritual terms, the Archaic Revival represents a return to the "root" of human existence—rediscovering the deep, primal connection to the Earth, the cosmos, and the divine that existed in ancient times. It is about transcending the limitations of modern society and reconnecting with the timeless wisdom that lies at the heart of all spiritual traditions.

To explore the deeper mysteries of the Archaic Revival and reconnect with ancient wisdom, consider joining The Archaic Occultist or check out The Sacred Text Library. Learn how to transform your consciousness and reconnect with the divine through the wisdom of ancient cultures.