Mysticism Books

Book SynopsisAiming to provide clues to the diverse forms and expressions of mysticism, by considering some of the major religious traditions of both East and West, this book explores two principal areas. These are monistic mysticism (seeking self-identity or union with the All) and theistic mysticism (seeking communion, but not identity, with God). The search for the mystical through drugs, sex and visions is also discussed, as is the relationship of the expert to the ordinary seeker.

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Book SynopsisOffering authoritative coverage of an increasingly popular area, this is a stimulating introduction to both the life and times of the great Sufi thinker, Rab'ia of Basra, and to the contribution made by other women mystics to the rich heritage of Islam. Drawing on a wide array of sources, from the words of tenth-century thinkers to the works of modern scholars, Margaret Smith provides a clear and accessible guide, not only to Rab'ia's remarkable life, but also to her asceticism, her miracles, and her teachings and writings. In addition to this, a perceptive survey traces t he roles of other female saints in Islam, from Naf sa, who recited the Qur'an six thousand times prior to her death, to the Indian princess F tima, who renounced her royal duties to become a renowned mystic.With its suggestion that the autonomy of these great female figures could serve as a religious and social model for today's Muslim women, this is a sensitive and readable survey, which balances historical information with an interesting contemporary perspective.

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Book SynopsisBiddy Early: The Wise Woman of Clare is an intriguing book that transports readers to a quaint two-roomed thatched cottage nestled between the Clare hills, overlooking Kilbarron Lake in Ireland. This was the home of the notorious red-headed Biddy Early, a figure shrouded in mystery and debate. Arguments persist about whether Biddy was a witch or a divinely gifted individual. Throughout this book, the reader is immersed in the rich tapestry of Irish folklore and history, as the mention of Biddy Early's name in any part of Ireland, particularly in County Clare, evokes a flood of astonishing stories, cures, prophecies, warnings, and broken spells. The narrative explores her life, being four times widowed, and the legendary 'magic bottle' she possessed. This bottle, always kept within reach and hidden under a shawl when she travelled, was her tool for clairvoyance, much like a crystal ball, offering her insights and answers. The book masterfully blends fact, legend, and mystery, offering a comprehensive portrayal of Biddy Early, a figure who continues to fascinate and mystify. It's an essential read for those interested in Irish folklore, women's history, and the enduring power of myth and legend in shaping our understanding of the past.

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Book SynopsisOriginally published in 1975, Experience of the Inner Worlds is a classic magical textbook of the Western Mystery Tradition. Covering a wide range of topics within a Christian-oriented Qabalistic framework, Gareth Knight explains the difference between magic and mysticism, natural and revealed religion, monism and theism. He also covers the practicalities, examining methods of inner plane communication, contact with the Masters, the 'consciousness' approach of Carl Jung, the vision of Dante and the archetypal power of the Hebrew alphabet - all within the context of the Qabalistic Tree of Life. The book also contains powerful visualisation exercises and examples of communication with angelic and elemental contacts. While this book can be used as a course of self-instruction, it is also an important modern reference book of magical theory and practice, and has been used for decades by students of Western Qabalah and magic.

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Book SynopsisCeltic spirituality is the "forgotten faith" of the West. It is essentially joyful and holistic and holds together the two human faculties of reason and intuition, taking joy in the beauty of the created world. The Celtic saints were intuitives whose feet were very firmly planted on the ground. It is their equilibrium as human beings that gives much of their appeal, and in this, as in the holiness their lives display, they are Christlike. This book by Anglican cleric Anthony Duncan examines the lives of the Celtic saints in the context of their time, along with the sacred places in the landscape that have become associated with them.

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