Aleister Crowley: 'The pious pretense that evil does not exist only makes it vague, enormous and menacing.'

The pious pretense that evil does not exist only makes it vague, enormous and menacing.

The quote by Aleister Crowley, "The pious pretense that evil does not exist only makes it vague, enormous and menacing," holds great meaning and importance in our lives. It urges us to acknowledge the existence of evil rather than denying or ignoring it, for doing so only gives it power, making it grow in size and become more threatening. This straightforward interpretation encapsulates the essence of Crowley's words and understands the reality of evil in our world.However, to truly delve into the depths of this quote, it is pertinent to introduce a philosophical concept that brings a unique perspective and adds interest to the discussion. Enter the concept of dualism. Dualism is the philosophical belief that there are two fundamental forces at play in the universe: good and evil, light and darkness, yin and yang. It proposes that these opposing forces are necessary for the existence of each other and that they are constantly in a delicate dance, influencing and shaping our world.In the context of Crowley's quote, we can view it through the lens of dualism. The idea that evil should not be ignored is not merely a reminder to acknowledge the presence of malevolence in our lives, but also a recognition of its role in the grand scheme of things. By denying evil's existence, we essentially deny half of the cosmic balance, disrupting the harmony that arises from the interplay between good and evil.Imagine a world where good and evil are acknowledged, understood, and embraced. This acknowledgment grants us the power to consciously and responsibly channel the forces of good, while at the same time, keeping evil in check. By accepting the presence of evil, we become more aware of its manifestations, enabling us to counter it effectively. It is through this unflinching recognition of both forces that we are able to maintain equilibrium within ourselves and in society.The pretense that evil does not exist is fueled by fear, a fear of facing the uncomfortable truth that darkness resides within us and in the world around us. However, by embracing this darkness, we challenge ourselves to confront it and transform it into something more manageable. Denying evil's existence only allows it to grow in the shadows, obscuring our understanding and making it an overwhelming force that cannot easily be combated.In a world that denies evil, the consequences can be dire. Just as a neglected wound can fester and become infected, the denial of evil allows it to seep into every aspect of our lives, poisoning our thoughts, actions, and relationships. Ignoring its existence does not make it disappear. Instead, it intensifies its grip, making it an insidious force that festers and grows exponentially.Therefore, the importance of Crowley's quote lies not just in its straightforward interpretation, but also in the deeper philosophical implications it carries. It urges us to confront the uncomfortable truth of evil's existence and, by doing so, allows us to counteract its influence and maintain a delicate balance with the forces of good. May we embrace the duality of our world, acknowledging evil without succumbing to its power, and strive to create a world where darkness is challenged and overcome by the light.