Did the Nazis Actually Dabble with the Occult?

For many years, there has been a persistent belief that the Nazi regime engaged in occult activities. However, this notion is largely based on misinterpretations and myths rather than historical facts. In this article, we will delve into the origins of this idea and explore what actual evidence exists to support the claims of Nazi occultism.

Origins of the Idea

One of the main sources inaccurately suggesting the Nazis were involved in occult practices is the book “Le Matin des magiciens” (The Morning of the Magicians), published in 1960. This book, intended as a playful interpretation, was never intended to be a serious academic study, yet it became widely influential over time. The idea of the Nazis engaging with the occult has been perpetuated through numerous films, documentaries, and popular culture, feeding into modern conspiracy theories.

Historical Context

It is important to understand that esoteric and occult practices have a long history, long predating the rise of the Nazi regime. Initiatives like the Thule Society, which predates both Hitler and the Nazi party, demonstrate that interest in esoteric knowledge was prevalent even before the rise of the Nazis.

Hitler and the Occult

Adolf Hitler himself shows little evidence of engaging with the occult. While he was nominally Catholic, there is no record of him participating in religious practices. Moreover, he planned to dismantle all churches in Germany once the war was won. In fact, his views on spirituality were largely dismissive. His primary focus was on material and rational goals, such as the conquest and subjugation of the Eastern territories.

Himmler and the SS

Heinrich Himmler, on the other hand, showed a greater interest in such subjects. He sponsored expeditions to uncover mythical objects and imagined the SS as a chivalric order of medieval knights, envisioning Wewelsburg Castle as a sort of Nazi Grail Castle. This fascination was more of a personal interest than a guiding principle of the Nazi regime.

Wewelsburg Castle and the Black Sun Crest

Wewelsburg Castle was renovated and modified through slave labor into a Nazi Grail Castle. The Black Sun crest, which was prominently featured there, reflects this obsession. However, these practices were more a personal fantasy than a systemic belief among Nazi leaders or rank-and-file members.

Impact of Occupied Territories and Literature

The concept of the Nazis and the occult going hand in hand is also influenced by the ideas of certain Nazi ideologues. Writers like Alfred Rosenberg, who dabbled in the occult, had an impact on the Nazi ideology. Concepts such as Blut und Boden (Blood and Soil) and the Blutfahne (Blood Flag) were influenced by these beliefs. Additionally, certain false or mythical ideas about Aryan cultures contributed to this narrative, but no such cultures ever existed in reality.

Conclusion

While elements of esoteric or mystical beliefs can be found among certain Nazi officials and intellectuals, the idea of the Nazi regime as a whole being deeply involved in occult practices is a myth. The primary interests of the Nazi leadership were focused on rational and material goals, reflecting their worldview and actions during the Third Reich.