In a world saturated with digital noise and constant information, a spiritual vacuum has emerged — and into that void, ancient esoteric traditions are making a modern comeback. A recent article highlights the growing popularity of “mystery schools” like the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and the Modern Mystery School (MMS), which blend occult philosophies such as Hermeticism, Kabbalah, sacred geometry, and ceremonial magic. Promising inner transformation, empowerment, and connection to “the divine within,” these institutions are positioning themselves as sources of ancient wisdom repackaged for today’s spiritually starved generation.

The draw toward these mystical teachings is not surprising. In an age plagued by anxiety, political division, and a sense of meaninglessness, people are seeking answers that go beyond materialism. These schools claim to offer deeper truths through ritual, symbolic systems, and “direct experience.” In their modern form, they are increasingly inclusive, offering online classes and public events to a broad audience, and promoting ideas of “awakening” and “inner mastery” as tools for navigating life.

From a biblical worldview, this revival of esoteric and mystical traditions is deeply antithetical to the truth of Scripture. The Bible strictly warns against all forms of occult practice — including divination, astrology, ritual magic, and seeking hidden knowledge outside of God’s revealed Word (Deuteronomy 18:9–12; Isaiah 8:19–20; Acts 19:19). These mystery schools promote self-divinity — the idea that divine power resides within each person — which directly contradicts the truth that salvation, wisdom, and spiritual transformation come only through Jesus Christ (John 14:6; Colossians 2:8–10).

While these practices are marketed as harmless self-help or ancient wisdom, they are, in reality, spiritual counterfeits that open the door to deception. The Apostle Paul warned that in the last days, people would turn away from sound doctrine and be drawn to teachings that “tickle the ears” (2 Timothy 4:3–4), and would give heed to “deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons” (1 Timothy 4:1). The surge in interest in mysticism, witchcraft, astrology, and occult philosophy is not a coincidence — it is prophetic.

Revelation 9:20–21 tells us that during the coming tribulation, even after severe judgment, humanity will not repent of their sorceries — the Greek word pharmakeia, associated with both drug use and occult practice. This shows that occultism will not only continue but will flourish in the end times. We are seeing the foreshadows now. The normalization and embrace of these practices point to a spiritual trajectory preparing the world for the arrival of the Antichrist and a deluded, globally unified religion (2 Thessalonians 2:9–11; Revelation 13, 17).

This return to “ancient wisdom” is, in reality, the repackaging of rebellion against God under the guise of enlightenment. These mystery schools promise hidden knowledge and inner power, but they echo the same lie whispered in Eden: “You will be like God” (Genesis 3:5). As believers, we should not be surprised. We are witnessing the shadows of what Scripture has long foretold. This should not lead us to fear, but to urgency — to stand firm in truth, speak boldly against deception, and shine the light of the gospel in a world groping for answers in all the wrong places.

Stay Awake. Keep Watch.

SOURCE: GritDaily