Love Under Will
“Love under will” is a key concept in Aleister Crowley's spiritual philosophy of Thelema, derived from the central tenet “Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.” It is often paired with the phrase “Love is the law, love under will,” which can be found in “The Book of the Law” (Liber AL vel Legis). This principle emphasises the importance of expressing love and compassion in accordance with one's True Will.
In Thelemic teachings, love is considered a fundamental force that unites and harmonises all elements of existence. However, to be truly transformative and beneficial, love must be guided and informed by one's True Will, the inherent purpose and driving force behind an individual's life. When love is aligned with the True Will, it becomes a powerful and authentic expression of the individual's spiritual nature.
“Love under will” encourages the practitioner to cultivate relationships and engage in actions that are in harmony with their True Will, rather than pursuing love for its own sake or as a result of societal expectations, superficial desires, or fleeting emotions. It underscores the significance of discernment, intention, and self-awareness in the expression of love.
In this context, love is not limited to romantic or interpersonal relationships but encompasses all forms of connection and interaction, including self-love, compassion for others, and the love of one's work, art, or spiritual practice. By aligning love with one's True Will, the individual can experience personal fulfilment and contribute to the greater harmony and balance of the universe.
“Love under will” can manifest in various aspects of an individual's life, reflecting the diverse ways in which love can be expressed in harmony with one's True Will.
Here are some examples:
- Romantic relationships: Choosing a romantic partner based on a deep and genuine connection that aligns with one's True Will, rather than superficial factors or societal pressures. In such a relationship, both partners support each other's growth and development, striving to help each other fulfil their respective True Wills.
- Friendship: Forming friendships with individuals who share common values, interests, and aspirations, and who encourage each other to pursue their True Wills. These friendships are characterised by mutual support, understanding, and a shared commitment to personal and spiritual growth.
- Creative pursuits: Engaging in artistic or creative endeavours that are an authentic expression of one's True Will, driven by passion and inspiration. This can involve writing, painting, music, or any other form of creative expression that resonates with the individual's innermost purpose.
- Career: Choosing a career or profession that aligns with one's True Will, contributing to the individual's sense of purpose and fulfilment. This can involve pursuing a vocation that is personally meaningful and makes a positive impact on the world.
- Acts of kindness and compassion: Engaging in acts of kindness, service, and compassion towards others, motivated by a genuine desire to alleviate suffering and promote well-being, in accordance with one's True Will. This can include volunteering, charitable work, or simply offering support and encouragement to those in need.
- Spiritual practice: Committing to a spiritual practice that aligns with one's True Will, deepening the individual's understanding of themselves and their connection to the universe. This can involve meditation, prayer, ritual, or any other form of spiritual discipline that resonates with the practitioner's inherent nature and purpose.
- Self-care and personal growth: Cultivating self-love and self-compassion by prioritising one's physical, emotional, and mental well-being, and engaging in activities that promote personal growth and self-improvement, in alignment with one's True Will.
By expressing love in these various aspects of life, individuals can experience a greater sense of fulfilment, harmony, and spiritual growth, as they align their actions and relationships with their True Will.