This blog post is a bit different from my usual ones. I am here writing a review of a book. Tony Mierzwicki, author of Graeco-Egyptian Magick: Everyday Empowerment, leaves his indelible mark on the Hellenic and Hellenistic Movements today. His new book, Hellenismos: Practicing Greek Polytheism Today, is a treasure trove that is sure to be a part of any Greek Polytheist’s library.

The book begins with an overview of the ancient Greek religious mindset. He does an accurate job of relaying ancient mores with common sense spirituality today. But it isn’t just “here is what they did and now we do this.” No, he examines the why’s and wherefore’s so that we can not only understand but metaphorically step into their shoes so that we have a true glimpse of the world of the ancient Greek.

What I especially enjoyed about the beginning of the book was not just a chapter on the Olympians, but also a chapter discussing the chthonic cults of Heroes, Daimones, and other Deities. It is brief to be sure, but the fact that he even covered it is amazing. Some people ignore the chthonic cults, focusing on the Olympians alone.

But for those who do focus on the Olympians, there is an interesting idea in the section on Altars for using 12 candles. Mind you, the author does mention that this was something he came across and was not his own idea. Nonetheless I liked it and might be borrowing it in the near future.

A feature I readily enjoyed was his encouragement to purchase a journal in order to notate one’s journey. Personally I use journals quite a bit in my spiritual walk, and find them indispensable. It is always good to look back on the research and experiences (often UPG) one has had and examine how that affects one’s personal walk. Journaling is a task I encourage for anyone budding in Neopagan/polytheistic spirituality and occultism. Tony does address UPG and that it is very personal, but alongside them to study the Mythos which surround the deities and spirits in question.

He does make a careful tread in what Reconstructionists may practice and what others may do. While his work is certain to be controversial to some, he leaves it up to the reader to to decide where they stand on certain issues such as UPG. That being said, his personal voice is that Hellenismos should be experiential and not a static religion boxed in. It is living and breathing, and I cannot help but strongly agree with him.

The practicums on celebrating the Lunar and Annual Cycles are amazing. I love the structure and ideas he presents, and they serve as a foundation for your own praxis. And then finally he tackles the controversies of Ancient Greece when it comes to slavery, the subjugation of women, sacrifice (both human and animal), and entheogens. I leave it to you to look into those when you purchase this book. There is so much to go into and enjoy. So much to savor, contemplate, and debate.

This book Hellenismos: Practicing Greek Polytheism Today will be released on August 8th, available through Llewellyn Publications.

Peace and Health!
~Oracle~