The 93 Current

The 93 Current is a term used within Thelema to refer to the spiritual, philosophical, and magical energy or force associated with the Thelemic movement. The number 93 holds significant symbolic meaning in Thelema, as it represents the central concepts of Thelemic philosophy: Will (Thelema) and Love (Agape).

The term “93 Current” originated from the numerological significance of the Greek words for Will (Θελημα, Thelema) and Love (Αγαπη, Agape), both of which have a numerical value of 93 according to the Greek system of isopsephy, which is similar to Hebrew gematria. Aleister Crowley, the founder of Thelema, believed that the 93 Current represented the spiritual energy of the new Aeon of Horus, which he saw as a time of individual self-realisation, personal freedom, and the pursuit of one's True Will.

The 93 Current is often used to describe the collective influence and impact of Thelemic philosophy, practices, and the associated community of practitioners on the world's spiritual landscape. It represents a stream of esoteric knowledge, tradition, and power that flows through those who align themselves with the principles of Thelema.

In a practical sense, Thelemites may use the phrase “93” or “93/93” as a greeting or sign of recognition, symbolising their shared connection to the 93 Current and their commitment to the pursuit of Will and Love.

In summary, the 93 Current refers to the spiritual and philosophical force associated with Thelema, signifying the guiding principles of Will and Love, and their influence on the Thelemic community and esoteric practices.

Current 93 is a British experimental music group formed in 1982 by David Tibet, the primary member and driving force behind the project. The band's music is characterised by its eclectic and experimental nature, incorporating elements from various genres such as neofolk, dark ambient, post-industrial, and avant-garde music.

Throughout their career, Current 93 has released numerous albums and collaborated with a wide range of artists, including members of Coil, Nurse With Wound, and Death in June. Their lyrics often draw inspiration from mysticism, religion, and the occult, as well as literary sources. David Tibet, a former member of the band Psychic TV, is known for his interest in esotericism and spirituality, which is reflected in the band's thematic content and name, which is derived from the aforementioned concept of the “93 Current” in Thelema.

Current 93 has a dedicated cult following and is considered an influential act within the experimental music scene. Their extensive discography showcases their versatility, artistic evolution, and unique approach to music, making them a significant presence in the world of avant-garde and experimental soundscapes.

David Tibet, born David Michael Bunting on 5 March 1960, is an English musician, poet, and artist, best known as the founder and creative force behind the experimental music group Current 93. Tibet grew up in Malaysia before returning to England to attend the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, where he studied English Literature.

In the early 1980s, Tibet became involved in the British underground music scene and joined the pioneering industrial band Psychic TV, led by Genesis P-Orridge. After leaving Psychic TV in 1982, he formed Current 93, a project that would become his primary artistic outlet for the next several decades.

Under the Current 93 moniker, Tibet has released numerous albums and collaborated with a wide range of artists from various musical backgrounds, including members of Coil, Nurse With Wound, and Death in June. His music often features elements of neofolk, dark ambient, post-industrial, and avant-garde genres, and is characterised by its eclectic and experimental nature.

Tibet's work often explores themes of mysticism, religion, and the occult, drawing inspiration from sources such as Gnosticism, Christianity, and the writings of Aleister Crowley. His interest in esotericism and spirituality is also reflected in the band's name, which refers to the “93 Current” within Thelema.

In addition to his musical endeavours, Tibet is an accomplished visual artist and poet, with several published works to his name. He has also worked as a curator and translator for the British Museum, specialising in Coptic texts.

Throughout his career, David Tibet has been a significant figure in the experimental music scene, garnering a dedicated cult following and establishing himself as an influential artist in the world of avant-garde soundscapes.