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Introduction: A Unique Energetic Banishing
The Rousing the Citadels ritual is a distinctive banishing and empowering practice within the magical system of the Aurum Solis, a Western mystery school that blends Hermetic philosophy with Platonic and Neoplatonic theurgy. Unlike the more well-known Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram, which relies on elemental and angelic correspondences, Rousing the Citadels is rooted in a visualisation of internal energy centres (or “Citadels”) within the body.
Its purpose is both banishing and empowerment, a way to cleanse the practitioner’s subtle body and awaken inner vitality. It also serves as a foundational preparation for deeper magical and meditative work in the Aurum Solis tradition.
Background: The Aurum Solis Tradition
Founded in the mid-20th century but drawing from much older roots, the Ordo Aurum Solis is known for its philosophical and mystical emphasis, particularly through a system it calls Theurgy of Light. The Citadels are energetic centres akin to chakras, but structured according to a Western framework that includes the Tree of Life, Platonic metaphysics, and celestial correspondences.
The Rousing is a method to bring these centres into harmony, light them with awareness, and clear away stagnant or discordant energies. It is an ideal ritual to begin the day, start a magical working, or prepare the body and mind for deeper meditative practice.
How to Perform the Rousing the Citadels Ritual
Allow about 10–15 minutes for the full practice, more if you wish to repeat or deepen the visualisations.
Preparation
- Choose a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed.
- Sit or stand comfortably, spine erect.
- Begin with a few deep breaths to centre your awareness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Establish Your Axis
Visualise a vertical axis of light running from above your head (the divine source) down through your body and into the earth.
- Feel this as a column of golden or white light.
- This is your “Axis of Light”, the core through which the Citadels will awaken.
2. Activate the Citadels
You will now bring your awareness to a series of seven energetic centres, called Citadels, located within the body. At each location, pause for around 10 seconds and visualise a sphere of brilliant light awakening there.
These are not chakras in the Eastern sense, though they are energetically comparable. Each Citadel is a point of potential awareness and magical force.
Begin from the top down:
- Crown Citadel (Top of Head): Sphere of radiant white light.
- Brow Citadel (Forehead): Indigo-blue sphere.
- Throat Citadel: Sky-blue or silver sphere.
- Heart Citadel (Centre of Chest): Golden or emerald green sphere.
- Solar Citadel (Solar Plexus): Bright yellow or golden sphere.
- Navel Citadel (Lower Abdomen): Orange-red sphere.
- Base Citadel (Base of Spine): Deep red or earthy brown sphere.
As you “rouse” each Citadel:
- Visualise the sphere growing brighter with breath and attention.
- Sense energy radiating outward, dispelling any disharmony or tension.
3. Unify the System
Once all seven Citadels are awakened, visualise all spheres simultaneously glowing, aligned along your vertical Axis of Light.
- Feel your body filled with vitality and clarity.
- Let any residual heaviness, tension, or psychic debris dissolve.
4. Grounding and Completion
- Take a few moments to feel your feet on the ground.
- Visualise the Axis of Light stabilising and gently softening.
- Offer silent thanks or affirmation.
When and Why to Practise
- Morning: As a daily clearing and energising practice.
- Before Rituals: To prepare the body for ceremonial magic or meditation.
- After Stress or Conflict: To reset emotional and psychic equilibrium.
- As a Banishing Ritual: Especially when a more internal, contemplative approach is needed.
Conclusion
Rousing the Citadels is a profound and underappreciated gem in the Western esoteric tradition. By focusing on internal harmony rather than external symbols, it offers a deeply personal and energetic form of magical preparation and protection.
While it may appear simple, its effects can be powerful, especially when practised regularly. Over time, many practitioners report increased clarity, stronger intuition, and a deeper sense of embodied presence.
Recommended Reading – Amazon Links
Astral Projection by Melita Denning & Osborne Phillips
Techniques of High Magic by Francis King & Stephen Skinner (includes a simplified version)
