After reading Mr. Alexander’s first book, Hellenismos Today, and being very impressed, I was very happy to see a second book out so soon. I eagerly snatched it up, as this book was marketed as an intro to actual worship.
As an experienced practitioner of Hellenismos, I was interested to see what the author felt was essential for worship. I admit I was scared. I was worried for nothing, because Mr. Alexander came through again….refusing to whitewash our practices to make it more palatable for the masses.
The beginning of the book is a reinforcement of some of the information provided in Hellenismos Today, and I can understand why…it’s not assumed that the first book was read, and some of the information is key to understanding the practice and worship of Hellenismos.
However; I was very impressed with the concise information provided on how to get started on worship.
I was glad to see Mr. Alexander stress orthopraxy and syncretism in the Theology chapter of the book. He makes it clear that while there is room for personal innovation, that there is still a correct way to practice, and a way to create theories using a correct method of thinking.
The Cosmology chapter is expanded in this book, and there are very good sections regarding the Soul, the Afterlife and Reincarnation, and an excellent discussion of “good and “evil”.
Mr. Alexander has broken down the Worship of Hellensimos into three dimensions: Public, Personal and Cult…and goes into great detail explaining the differences between each one. The Prayers and Hymns Chapter goes into great detail as well and gives examples of both formal and informal prayers, and also an example of a Hymn. I especially like that he encourages the reader to write their own forms of devotion.
For a novice to Hellensimos, the Chapters on Offerings, Sacrifices and Libations, and Votives is key (in addtion to the basis – prayer). There is often confusion between an offering and a sacrifice, and this book makes it so clear as to what each one is. The differences between a vow and an oath are also clearly defined. Correct disposal of sacrifices and offerings is also included…which is something I wish I had had more information on when I was just starting out.
I think a reader will be inspired to start practicing if they have been afraid to thus far. Some of the misconceptions with Hellenismos is that you have to be a scholar to practice, and Mr. Alexander makes it clear that what the novice needs to do is start practicing. With this book, a reader will have the encouragement and support needed to start worship. Piety, Reciprocity and Moderation are stressed…and even as an experienced practitioner of Hellenismos, I felt a swell of excitement and passion. If that feeling can be expressed to one that has practiced for awhile, I cannot imagine what this book can do for someone new to Hellenismos. This book sends out a spiritual message…and that is crucial to understanding Hellenismos.
The Rites and Rituals Chapter is also very good, explains clearly, Rites of Passage, Rites of Worship and so on. The Festival and Festival Calendar is also included, and Mr. Alexander has a wonderful section on ideas to recreate festivals and secular holidays using a little imagination and personal innovation.
Then the most controversial part of the book comes up: Magick. Once again, Mr. Alexander stresses the differences between Magick and Mysticism, Divination and Shamanic practices. I personally agree with his assessment of magick (spellwork) as impious…others may not. I encourage readers to read this section carefully, and form their own opinion.
For me, personally….the Chapter on Temples, Shrines, Statues and Images was the most inspiring part of the book. The author’s enthusiasm for bringing our wonderful religion public again is evident, he writes with passion and eloquence on this subject.
Mr. Alexander leaves us with his final words…and these words are the essence of Hellenic Reconstructionism:
“Hellenismos is not rocket science, it is religion”
This is a very well written book. I highly recommend it for beginning practioners of Hellensimos, and more experienced Hellenic Reconstructionists as well. Check out the Appendix….wonderful information is included. My favorite is Emperor Julian’s Oration to the Mother of the Gods. There’s also a guide of useful Greek words and an extensive list of epithets of the gods.
This book inspires, sends a spiritual message, and is a practical guide…all at the same time.
Congratulations, Mr. Alexander. You are a fresh new voice for Hellenismos, and I will continue to read anything you put out.
