Vril is a mystical concept that originally appeared in 19th-century science fiction and later became popular in various esoteric and occult movements. The term "Vril" became popular primarily through the work of British author Edward Bulwer-Lytton, who coined the term in his 1871 novel "The Coming Race."
Origin of the term Vril:
In "The Coming Race," Bulwer-Lytton describes an advanced civilization living deep underground with a mysterious, nearly inexhaustible source of energy known as "Vril." This energy source is controlled and harnessed by a superior race, the "Vril-ya." These beings have the ability to use this energy for both healing and destruction. Vril is described as a kind of universal life energy that carries enormous power and has the ability to influence physical reality.
In "The Coming Race," Vril is portrayed as a form of telekinetic energy important for both the technological and spiritual well-being of the Vril-ya. It is described that access to Vril is granted only to those of a high spiritual and moral standard.
Meaning and Influence of the Term:
The term Vril gained widespread popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and influenced many esoteric, occult, and pseudoscientific movements. Some groups began to believe that Vril was a genuine, undiscovered form of energy that could enable humans to perform technological miracles or radically transform the material world.
1. Esotericism and Occultism:
In the early 20th century, various esoteric and occult groups began to interpret the concept of Vril as a secret knowledge that could provide access to supernatural power or spiritual awakening. Some occult thinkers and spiritualists believed that the discovery and use of Vril could advance human evolution and even provide access to higher dimensions or states of consciousness.
2. Vril in the Nazi Scene:
During the Third Reich, there were rumors and speculation about an interest in Vril among some occult societies, who may have attempted to use it for mystical or even military purposes. In particular, the Thule Society, a mystical-occult group closely associated with the early years of the Nazi movement, was said to have explored concepts based on Vril and other esoteric ideas. However, there is no historical evidence that the Nazis actually had access to Vril or that it had a deeper, secret meaning.
3. Vril and Modern Pseudoscientific Theories:
In recent decades, the term Vril has appeared in various pseudoscientific and conspiracy theories. Some believe that Vril is a type of energy source controlled by secret societies or superior civilizations. There is also speculation about an alleged anti-gravity or free energy technology linked to Vril.
Summary:
Vril is a concept originally introduced in Edward Bulwer-Lytton's novel "The Coming Race," describing a mystical energy source harnessed by a superior subterranean civilization. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the term entered esoteric and occult circles and became the subject of conspiracy theories and pseudoscientific speculation. Despite its cultural significance, Vril remains a fictional concept with no scientific basis.