Thelma Lee was a fascinating figure in the world of occultism, known for her association with the infamous Aleister Crowley. Born in 1902 in Stockwell, London, she was the daughter of a wealthy businessman and grew up in a privileged environment. Despite her privileged upbringing, Thelma was drawn to the world of esotericism and spirituality from a young age.
Thelma first encountered Crowley in 1920, when she was just 18 years old. She quickly became enamoured with the charismatic occultist, and the two began a passionate affair that lasted several years. Thelma, who took on the name of ‘Leah Hirsig’ during her time with Crowley, became one of his most devoted followers and played a significant role in his magical workings. Together, they explored the boundaries of sex magic and other taboo practices, and Thelma became a key figure in Crowley’s infamous ‘Abbey of Thelema’ in Sicily.
Thelma Lee’s Life
Early Life
Thelma Lee was born in 1902 in Stockwell, London. Not much is known about her early life, except that she was the daughter of a clergyman and was raised in a strict Christian household.
Relationship with Aleister Crowley
Thelma Lee first met Aleister Crowley in 1920, when she was just 18 years old. She was immediately drawn to his charisma and unconventional lifestyle. Crowley, who was 45 at the time, was equally fascinated by Thelma and soon became her mentor and lover.
Their relationship was controversial, as Crowley was already married and had a reputation as a notorious occultist. Thelma’s family was also deeply opposed to the relationship, and her father even tried to have Crowley arrested on charges of corrupting a minor.
Despite these obstacles, Thelma and Crowley remained together for several years. They travelled extensively throughout Europe and North Africa, studying various occult practices and experimenting with drugs and sexual rituals.
Involvement in Occultism
Thelma Lee was deeply involved in the occult community during her relationship with Crowley. She was a member of his magical order, the A∴A∴, and participated in many of his rituals and ceremonies.
After her relationship with Crowley ended, Thelma continued to pursue her interest in the occult. She became a member of the Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO), another magical order founded by Crowley, and eventually rose to the rank of Ninth Degree.
Thelma also wrote several books on occultism, including a memoir of her time with Crowley titled “The Magical Diaries of the Scarlet Woman.” Her writings are still highly regarded in the occult community today.
Overall, Thelma Lee was a fascinating figure in the world of occultism. Her relationship with Aleister Crowley and her involvement in magical orders continue to intrigue and inspire those interested in the occult.
Crowley’s Influence on Thelma Lee
Thelma Lee’s Writings on Crowley
Thelma Lee was a writer who had a great interest in the works of Aleister Crowley. She wrote several articles and essays on Crowley’s philosophy and teachings. In her writings, Lee explored the concept of Thelema, which is the central philosophy of Crowley’s work. She discussed the importance of individualism and self-discovery, which were key themes in Crowley’s teachings. Lee also wrote about the symbolism and rituals used in Crowley’s work, and how they related to his philosophy.
Thelma Lee’s Role in Crowley’s Work
Thelma Lee was a close associate of Aleister Crowley and played an important role in his work. She was a member of his occult order, the A∴A∴, and was initiated into its highest degree. Lee also assisted Crowley in the writing and editing of some of his books, including “The Book of Thoth” and “Magick Without Tears”. She was known for her intelligence and her ability to understand and interpret Crowley’s complex teachings.
Thelma Lee’s Legacy
Thelma Lee’s legacy is primarily tied to her work with Aleister Crowley. Her writings on Crowley’s philosophy and teachings continue to be studied and discussed by scholars and practitioners of Thelema. Lee’s role in Crowley’s work is also remembered, and she is often cited as an important figure in the history of Thelema. Despite this, Lee’s own contributions to the field of occultism are often overlooked, and her work outside of her association with Crowley is not widely known.
In conclusion, Thelma Lee had a significant influence on Aleister Crowley’s work, and her own writings and contributions to the field of occultism are still studied and discussed today.