Occult studies / Supernatural studies Books

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Book SynopsisA provocative account of the seismic shift in attitude toward the supernatural in seventeenth and eighteenth century BritainTrade Review“[D]evelops a different argument in suggesting that it was sceptical humanists and freethinkers, rather than scientists, who did most to discredit traditional magic.”—Tony Barber, Financial Times "Next year will mark the 50th anniversary of Keith Thomas’s Religion and the Decline of Magic, one of the 20th century’s seminal historical texts. Hunter’s book has a similar-sounding title, but develops a different argument in suggesting that it was sceptical humanists and freethinkers, rather than scientists, who did most to discredit traditional magic"—Tony Barber, Financial Times 'Best Books of 2020: History'“In forcing us all to think more critically about the ways in which intellectual and cultural change happens, Hunter has again made a major contribution to the history of early modern Britain.”—Dimitri Levitin, Literary Review“Hunter has taken us on a fascinating journey, providing us with some astute case studies and pointed observations along the way.”—Dr Jan Machielsen, Reviews in History“Michael Hunter provides a route-map of sorts with which to negotiate this sometimes precarious cognitive terrain.”—Mark Jones, Albion Magazine“[T]he author’s lucid and detailed exposition introduces us to a cast of lesser known writers – such as Francis Hutchinson, Obadiah Oddy and Richard Mead – as he sketches the broader context in which the seismic shift in attitude occurred, while acknowledging the gulf between educated and popular opinion.”—Paul Sieveking, Fortean Times“Although most of The Decline of Magic: Britain in the Enlightenment is straightforward intellectual history, folklorists will find two chapters exploring topics that are clear folklore case studies.”—William Pooley, Folklore “Hunter's book is particularly praiseworthy for its reflection on the nature of intellectual change...He provides us with a thoroughly engaging and stimulating study, which has a particular resonance today.”—Audrey Borowski, Times Literary Supplement "An original examination of the evolution of ideas that influenced the processes of community regulation such as medicine, justice, witchcraft and the supernatural”—Elizabeth Tingle, Family & Community History"Hunter’s book weaves a gripping account...He provides a compelling and erudite account that shines light on the origins of the English Enlightenment, while teasing out the complex processes of intellectual change that underpins his study.”—Stephen Brogan, Interlib"Hunter’s fascinating study sheds light on the roots of this tradition and opens new directions for research."—Kathryn Morris, The Canadian Journal of History"In 1971, Keith Thomas published what became a classic study on Religion and the Decline of Magic. Half a century later, Michael Hunter approaches that decline from another angle and offers an alternative explanation. Learned, lucid, acute and balanced, Hunter’s book deserves to become another classic."—Peter Burke, author of A Social History of Knowledge "This is an important and remarkable book, the product of a master of the subject and period. It completely overhauls our view of that subject, answering questions which have hung over it for decades, and raises some exciting and disturbing questions for the present."—Ronald Hutton, author of The Witch“Michael Hunter, a pre-eminent historian of early modern science, redresses a balance in recent scholarship by examining skepticism towards magical phenomena among British intellectuals of the early Enlightenment. The result is a readable, thought-provoking book that places scientific inquiry firmly within broader historical trends.”—Paul Kléber Monod, author of Solomon's Secret Arts“Definitely a book to think with. Hunter brings new figures to scrutiny—Obadiah Oddy, Richard Mead, John Wagstaffe, Francis Hutchinson—and expertly weaves them into this tapestry of intellectual and cultural change.”—Justin Champion, author of The Pillars Of Priestcraft Shaken

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Book SynopsisThe wild, audacious spirit of weeds has much in common with witches, sharing a bond of nonconformity dating back to ancient times. Explore the wild herbal magic of nature that connects these mysterious plants to the witches that harness their powers. With detailed illustrations and instructions, this book is a guide to wild vegetation found in the suburbs, railways, countryside roads, undergrowth, and seaside locations. Each chapter begins in a new place and introduces a unique witch as they forage for weeds in the area and create recipes, cosmetics, and magical uses for each weed! Beginners and experienced witchcraft practitioners can incorporate the properties and benefits of these natural healers in foods or balms, creams, and lotions for self-care. Discover the magical power hidden in wild herbs and weeds, and use nature to enhance your body, soul, and spirit and build a healthier, happier life.

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Book SynopsisA detailed examination of the last 15 years of Crowley’s life• Reveals Crowley’s sex magick relations in London and his contacts with important figures, including Dion Fortune, Gerald Gardner, Jack Parsons, Dylan Thomas, and black equality activist Nancy Cunard • Explores Crowley’s nick-of-time escape from the Nazi takeover in Germany and offers extensive confirmation of Crowley’s work for British intelligence • Examines the development of Crowley’s later publications and his articles in reaction to the Nazi Gestapo actively persecuting his followers in Germany After an extraordinary life of magical workings, occult fame, and artistic pursuits around the globe, Aleister Crowley was forced to spend the last fifteen years of his life in his native England, nearly penniless. Much less examined than his early years, this final period of the Beast’s life was just as filled with sex magick, espionage, romance, transatlantic conflict, and extreme behavior. Drawing on previously unpublished diaries and letters, Tobias Churton provides the first detailed treatment of the final years of Crowley’s life, from 1932 to 1947. He opens with Crowley’s nick-of-time escape from the Nazi takeover in Germany and his return home to England, flat broke. Churton offers extensive confirmation of Crowley’s work as a secret operative for MI5 and explores how Crowley saw World War II as the turning point for the “New Aeon.” He examines Crowley’s notorious 1934 London trial, which resulted in his bankruptcy, and shares inside stories of Crowley’s relations with Californian O.T.O. followers, including rocket-fuel specialist Jack Parsons, and his attempt to take over H. Spencer Lewis’s Rosicrucian Order. The author reveals Crowley’s sex magick relations in London and his contacts with spiritual leaders of the time, including Dion Fortune and Wicca founder Gerald Gardner. He examines Crowley’s dealings with artists such as Dylan Thomas, Alfred Hitchcock, Augustus John, Peter Warlock, and Peter Brooks and dispels the accusations that Crowley was racist, exploring his work with lifelong friend, black equality activist Nancy Cunard. Churton also examines the development of Crowley’s later publications such as Magick without Tears as well as his articles in reaction to the Nazi Gestapo who was actively persecuting his remaining followers in Germany. Presenting an intimate and compelling study of Crowley in middle and old age, Churton shows how the Beast still wields a wand-like power to delight and astonish.Trade Review“Aleister Crowley has found the biographer he could have wished for. By staying close to the original sources, Tobias Churton has managed to dive deeply into the emotional life of an unparalleled religious thinker who celebrated life. Aleister Crowley in England is like the man himself--profound, witty, imaginative, and joyous.” * Frank van Lamoen, assistant curator and researcher, Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam *“Tobias Churton’s masterful survey of the Beast’s declining years battling ill-health and poverty in England, records not only matters Magickal with the author’s usual scrupulous attention to accuracy and detail but also reveals other aspects of Crowley’s perverse personality, like the luxurious meals he prepared for guests even following bankruptcy, his priapic adventures, seemingly undiminished by chronic asthma, and more. All this is dished up with Churton’s customary eloquence and panache, a triumphant addition to the definitive multivolume biography.” * Patrick Robertson O.B.E., Historian *“Tobias Churton gives the deluxe treatment to Aleister Crowley’s often-overlooked final years: As a life of magick, romance, controversy, and intrigue draws to a close, the Beast crystallizes his incredible experiences into his most mature works, does his part for the war effort, reinvents the Tarot, and forges relationships that will carry his legacy well beyond his lifetime. Crowley beguiles and endures to the very end.” * Richard Kaczynski, author of Perdurabo: The Life of Aleister Crowley *“Tobias Churton’s excellent series of books exploring the different phases of Aleister Crowley’s life and work continues here, revealing much of the deeper details often overlooked in the Beast’s later years. Churton has a true gift for finding and correlating the different connections Crowley made with people who were first drawn by his reputation, only to be bewitched by his personal magnetism into staying when they had every reason to shun him.” * Toby Chappell, author of Infernal Geometry and the Left-Hand Path *“Resettled in the UK, neither financial problems nor failing health could stop the ‘Great Beast’ from creating The Book of Thoth and a multitude of occult classics. Churton’s masterful study of these final decades of Crowley’s life is as revealing as it is entertaining.” * Carl Abrahamsson, magico-anthropologist, filmmaker, and author of Occulture *“With delightful prose and his ever-present understanding of Aleister Crowley’s humor and humanity, Tobias Churton expertly separates the man, the myth, and the legend, revealing the clearest picture available of the world’s most famous occultist.” * Tamra Lucid, founding member of the experimental rock band Lucid Nation and author of Making the Ord *“Aleister Crowley in England, by scholar Tobias Churton, is a very precious and fascinating work, covering the last fifteen years of the Beast in his native England. It throws considerable light on his final period, not well known and as full of crazy events as his early days. A must-have.” * Philippe Pissier, French translator of Aleister Crowley *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments INTRODUCTIONHe Never Sold Out PART ONE Pre-War 1932-1939 ONE Never Dull Where Crowley Is TWOPotted Sex Appeal THREEJustice Swift The Trial FOURUnbelievable Terror A.M.O.R.C. Round One FIVE Bar 666 SIX Living in a Turkish Bath A.M.O.R.C. AgainSEVEN Seriously on the Path Hitler and Germany According to Protective Prisoner No. 303 Cornwall--August 1938EIGHT Khing Kang King Return of the Goetic Gourmet Qingjing Jing PART TWO WAR NINE Happy Dust TEN What Crowley Does this Year, England Does Next Torquay--Great Magical Retirement?ELEVENRobed as a Warrior Rudolf Hess TWELVE In the Hour of Battle Winston Plus Cigar “Defeatist Activities of Really Serious Groups” Cambridge SpyTHIRTEEN I Dreamed Time FOURTEENMonstrous Worlds The Duke Street-King Street Bomb The Bell A New Gnostic Church--Almost The Book of Thoth Nancy Cunard PART THREERETIREMENT FIFTEEN Death Is King Netherwood The Chinese Ambassadress SIXTEEN Eddies of Obsidian Babalon Now! SEVENTEEN The Universe Chronology 1875 to 1932: Crowley’s Life before He Returned to England Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisExploring occultist, magician, poet, painter, and writer Aleister Crowley’s longstanding and intimate association with Paris, Tobias Churton provides the first detailed account of Crowley’s activities in the City of Light. Using previously unpublished letters and diaries, Churton explores how Crowley was initiated into the Golden Dawn’s Inner Order in Paris in 1900 and how, in 1902, he relocated to Montparnasse. Soon engaged to Anglo-Irish artist Eileen Gray, Crowley pontificates and parties with English, American, and French artists gathered around sculptor Auguste Rodin: all keen to exhibit at Paris’s famed Salon d’Automne. In 1904--still dressed as “Prince Chioa Khan” and recently returned from his Book of the Law experience in Cairo--Crowley dines with novelist Arnold Bennett at Paillard’s. In 1908 Crowley is back in Paris to prove it’s possible to attain Samadhi (or “knowledge and conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel”) while living a modern life in a busy metropolis. In 1913 he organizes a demonstration for artistic and sexual freedom at Oscar Wilde’s tomb. Until war spoils all in 1914, Paris is Crowley’s playground. The author details how, after returning from America in 1920, and though based at his “Abbey of Thelema” in Sicily, Crowley can’t leave Paris alone. When Mussolini expels him from Italy, Paris becomes home from 1924 until 1929. Churton reveals Crowley’s part in the jazz-age explosion of modernism, as the lover of photographer Berenice Abbott, and many others, and how he enjoyed camaraderie with Man Ray, Nancy Cunard, André Gide, and Aimée Crocker. The author explores Crowley’s adventures in Tunisia, Algeria, the Riviera, his battle with heroin addiction, his relationship with daughter Astarte Lulu--raised at Cefalù--and finally, a high-level ministerial conspiracy to get him out of Paris. Reconstructing Crowley’s heyday in the last decade and a half of France’s Belle Époque and the “roaring Twenties,” this book illuminates Crowley’s place within the artistic, literary, and spiritual ferment of the great City of Light.Trade Review“This final installment of Churton’s expansive and detailed exposition on Aleister Crowley’s life, work, and milieu is a treasure trove of new information and startling revelations. Scrupulously researched and exquisitely written, Churton’s complete six-volume biography of Crowley confirms his position as one of the most insightful, respected, and eloquent scholars on Frater Perdurabo to ever put pen to paper. Aleister Crowley in Paris is a delight.” * John Zorn, composer *“The young Crowley was in with the ‘in crowd’ in Paris and knew everyone it seems, who then, like him, became one of the characters that creatively shaped the last century. He was engaged to the great Eileen Gray, and lots of other notable women come to life in this very accomplished biography. Tobias Churton is to be applauded for once again getting rid of the gossip and giving us the facts, this time in ‘gay Paree,’ of the life and aspirations of the greatest magician of the twentieth century.” * Geraldine Beskin, co-owner of the Atlantis Bookshop, London *“Tobias Churton’s multivolume work examining Crowley’s life and work in key geographical locations is nothing less than brilliant. This time Churton takes us to Paris, an extremely important place for Crowley. It’s a pure joy to travel alongside both Crowley and Churton to the City of Light and Romance and to indulge in both the scandals and miracles of the Great Beast 666.” * Carl Abrahamsson, author of Source Magic, Anton LaVey and the Church of Satan, Occulture, and Reason *“Aleister Crowley in Paris recasts the Beast’s biography through the lens of Belle Époque Paris, where its expat embrace of freedom, art, publishing, magick, and romance captured Crowley’s heart. We find the mage returning over the years, seeking fresh inspiration or a safe haven from his woes, whether personal or magical. Throughout this engaging narrative, Churton proves that we cannot understand Crowley without understanding his relationship to Paris.” * Richard Kaczynski author of Perdurabo and editor of Crowley’s The Sword of Song *Table of ContentsFOREWORD by Frank van Lamoen ACKNOWLEDGMENTSONE Sir Aleister Crowley Will Be Expelled from France Tomorrow TWO One Flame 1883-1898 Mathers in Paris Mina Mathers and Annie Horniman THREE The Road to Auteuil 1898-1900 FOUR Toward the City of LightGerald Kelly FIVE Paris, November 1902 SIX Old Threads and New 1902-1903 Eileen Gray and Friends The Star and the Garter Nina Olivier SEVEN Where Soul and Spirit Slip 1903 To Nice EIGHTRodin NINE Le Chat Blanc The Upper Room Maugham on Crowley TEN I Piped When You Danced A Khan in the City of Light Return to Paris-AloneELEVEN Adonai 1907-1908 Paris, 1908TWELVE John St. John, or Aleister Crowley’s Great Magical Retirement, 1908 The Thirteen Days THIRTEENRagged and Wilde 1909-1913Covering Embarrassment FOURTEEN Fiery Arrows 1914 Dennis Wheatley and the Legend of Raising Pan in Paris FIFTEEN The Fool Is a Card 1920SIXTEENSpiritual Poison 1921-1923SEVENTEEN I Died 1924 EIGHTEENMan Is a Gambler 1925-1927 284NINETEEN The Mortal Kiss 1928 Retirement--May 24-August 29, 1928 TWENTYRefus de séjour 1929 TWENTY-ONE The Last Time He Saw Paris 1929-1930The Last Dash NOTESBIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

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Book SynopsisSome years ago, for no obvious reason, Paul Whiteman felt compelled to analyse the mystical number 666, also known as the number of The Beast. His little mathematical revelation was followed almost immediately by a violent thunderstorm, and by a severe attack of asthma requiring urgent hospital admission. The concurrence of these scary events with his dabbling in the occult was probably coincidental. But the episode prompted Paul to further investigate numbers and the beliefs associated with them, the culmination of this research being 666 and All That. The initial chapters provide a pertinent review of the history and nature of numbers, number systems and the numbers of time. Relevant interpretations of the Revelation of St John are presented, taking into account both exoteric and esoteric views. Particular attention is given to the prevalence of sixes and sevens. This all provides the background to his interpretation of the code, 666. The obsession with numbers and supernatural apocalypses may say more about the nature of the human mind than some association with the spirit world. So far, the attempts of seers to prospectively predict a doomsday have been unimpressive. But the most likely causes of apocalyptic events in the 21st Century are, surely, rather obvious. Unchecked, they may be associated with a major evolutionary divergence – without the help of supernatural intervention. Paul discusses these issues, and the nature of the spirit that drives modern human evolution in this complex and fascinating read.

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Book SynopsisFounded in 1971 by Elizabeth Pepper, the long-time art director of Gourmet magazine, The Witches'' Almanac is a witty, literate and sophisticated publication that appeals to general readers as well as hard-core Wiccans and magicians. On one level, it is a pop reference that will fascinate anyone interested in folklore, mythology and culture, but on another, it is the most sophisticated and wide-ranging annual guide available today for occultists and mysticism enthusiasts.Modelled on the Old Farmers'' Almanac, it includes information relating to the annual moon calendar (weather forecasts and horoscopes), as well as legends, rituals, herbal secrets, mystic incantations, interviews and many a curious tale of good and evil. Although it is an annual publication, only about 15 percent of the content is specific to the date range of each issue.The theme of Issue 38 (Spring 2019 to Spring 2020) is Animals: Friends and Familiars. Also included are the following articles: "Beer and Witches," "Gargoyles," "Horseshoes," "Transgender in the Craft" and "Coefficient of Weirdness, Part 3." New authors include Sorita d''Este, Lon Milo DuQuette, David Rankine and Mat Auryn.

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisThis manuscript is a grimoire, a manual of practical magic, a sorcerers handbook. It is a composite grimoire drawn from a number of different sources. It is not the sort of grimoire which has a complete method of calling up a set register of spirits, like the Goetia, nor does it have a wide range of pentacles or talismans like the Key of Solomon. It is however quite special as it was also was a practising Cunning man's grimoire, a very interesting blend of learned and local village magic. It also contains a lot of critical astrological information (including its own set of astrological tables) which are an important part of magic, but which dont feature to a large extent in other grimoires. It goes way beyond Planetary days and hours, to detailed aspects of timing and also contains magical operations connected with the 28 Mansions of the Moon and image magic, which were usually absent from Solomonic grimoires. The 28 Mansions of the Moon belong to a different magical tradition which owes its origins to Arabic and Indian roots, rather than the Greek roots of Solomonic magic. This manuscript literally stands at the crossroads of several different magical streams.Table of Contents"List of Illustrations 12List of Tables 13Acknowledgements 14Introduction 15Preliminary Preparation & PrayersThe Secret of Secrets 31Of the Angells & their Power 31Mans Power over Spirits 32Preface with Directions & Aphorisms 32Astrological Timing of the Operation 35That the holy Angells may helpe thee in thyne occasions 37Making a Pentacle to hold in thy hand 39The figure of a Pentacle & how to keep it 40An Narration to the 7 Planetary Angells of the 7 Planetary heavens 41The Seales & Characters of Angells and Spirits & their Use 42Experiments1. An Experiment to have thy owne proper good Angell 43The Call for thy proper good Angell 482. An Experiment of 3 holy Angells: Ancor, Anacor, Analos, 51Consecration of the Crystall stone or glass 533. A most Noble Experiment for the glasse or cristallomanticall Art 57The Invocation Descend 58Fumigation for thy selfe 594. A true Experiment of 3 Spirits: Durus, Artus, Æbedel 60An Exhortation to the Artist 625. Another Experiment of the 3 horsemen sayd to be approved true 63License to Depart 656. The Experiment of Birto the Spirit 66License to Depart 67Admonition to the Artist 68Astrological & TimingAstrological Considerations 69Directions for practise for gaining thy owne proper good Angell 70Of Essentiall Dignities of the Planets 71Of Essentiall Debilities of the Planets 73Planetary Hours 74Table of the Names of each houre in every Day & every Night. 75Table of the Day of the weeke, Planets, Angells & their Seales. 76Names of the 4 Seasons 77Angells of the 4 Seasons 77Angells of the Head of the Signe of the 4 Seasons 78Names of the Earth in the 4 Seasons 78Names of the Sun & Moon in the 4 Seasons 79Briefe table on the sequence of writing the Names in order 80Angels & SpiritsA Table of Hebrew Names of the 7 Angells set over the 7 Planets. 82Spirits of each of the 7 Planets. 835 Angels & their offices or officiall Names 83How long each of the 7 Planetary Angels rules the world 84Things proper to be done in each houre of the Planets. 84Angels & Spirits of the 12 Signs 85Angells of the 28 Mansions of the Moon 867. An Experiment of Askariell in a glass or cristall 87Fumigations & IncensesOf Fumigations, Unguents, Collyries & Unctions causing Apparitions 90A Fumigation for all 7 Angells together 92A Table of the Fumigations for every Planet & Planetary hour 93To Consecrate the Fumigation 94Fumigations of Divers sorts 94SpiritsTo gather Spirits together presently 95To make Spirits dread thee & to see Secret Things 95To Call all kinds of Spirits that you wilt 95To have might to binde & loose Spirits 95Another ointment to see Spirits 96To see Spirits in the ayre 96To have friendship of a Prince of Spirits of the Ayre 96To hide Treasure 97Of the power & vertue of Fumigations, Sacrifices & Unctions 98When best to compound Fumigations 101By what means does fumigation cause spirits to appear with bodys 101What the Spirits appearing in this world are, according to Hermes 102To gather Spirits of the ayre together 103Visions, Oracles, Fumigations, Images, etc.For a Vision, in the night 103Men shall see Visions. 105Directions for receiving an Oracle or Vision 105To make the Ring of ' for receiving an Oracle or true dreame 106A Ring of ! for an Oracle 107Another way to receive a true Oracle by the image of the Planets 107Metalls, trees, stones and herbs of each of the 7 Planets 108Making of the Images of the Planets 110To know when any degree of any Signe will come to the Ascendant 112For an Oracle or true Dreame. 1148. Another true Experiment for a vision in thy sleepe 117Mansions of the MoonHow to worke by the 28 Mansions 117What the 28 Mansions of the Moon are 129A Table of the 28 Mansions of the Moon 129Decembers Observations (an insert) 132Table of Houses for London, 1644 January-December 133Table of Terms of the Planets 145Simple SpellsTo drive away & consume Locust & Wormes 146To drive away Serpents, Dragons, & all creeping things & wild beasts 146To drive away wolves, foxes and cats 147That haile fall not in a place where you wouldest not have it fall 147That the ! appear & shyne forth openly on thee 147To quench fire burning a house 148That a thiefe enter not into thy house 148Magical RingsRings of the 7 Planets but for other purposes 149This Ring of the ! for honour and a swift horse 149The Ring of the ; for waterworks, fighting ships & trees bearing fruit 150The Ring of % for castles & kings doing battle 151The Ring of # for skill at all kinds of play, favour of Lords & Judges 151The Ring of & for profit & delivering out of thrall 152The Ring of $ for love & favour of men and women 152The Ring of ' for binding tongues & slanderous speeche 152Characters of the Angels called by the Rings according to the days 153A Table of this Book (the original Contents table) 155Bibliography 161Index 169"

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Book SynopsisThe first major survey of the occult collection of artworks, letters, objects and ephemera in the Tate Archive and collection. Revealing over 150 esoteric and mystical pieces, some never before seen, this book gives a new understanding to the artists in the Tate collection and the history and practice of the occult. A lavishly illustrated magical volume acts a potent talisman connecting the two worlds of Tate – the seen public collection and the unseen secrets lurking in the archive. The pages of this book explore the hidden artworks and ephemera left behind by artists, and shed new light on our understanding of the art historical canon. It offers an in-depth exploration of the occult and its relationship to art and culture including witchcraft, alchemy, secret societies, folklore and pagan rituals, demonology, spells and magic, psychic energies, astrology and tarot. Expect to find the unexpected in the works and lives of artists such as Ithell Colquhoun, Paul Nash, Barbara Hepworth, Cecil Collins, John William Waterhouse, Alan Davie, Joe Tilson, Henry Moore, Eileen Agar, William Blake, Leonora Carrington and Pamela Colman Smith. For the first time, the clandestine, magical works of the Tate archive are revealed with archivist Victoria Jenkins exploring relationships between art and the occult, and how both can act as a form of resistance to challenging environments. This book challenges perceptions and illuminates the surprising breadth and extraordinary ways in which artists interpret not just the physical world around them but also the supernatural, to make the unseen, seen. If you think you know Tate artists, it’s time to think again.

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Book SynopsisThe Orphic hymns are fascinating historical artifacts 87 devotions, invocations, and entreaties to the Greek gods that are as powerful today as they were when they were originally developed thousands of years ago.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A truly important and courageous book that will help many people to understand their soul's journey, to heal grief, and to let go of fear." -- -- Brian L. Weiss, M.D., author of Many Lives, Many Masters

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Book SynopsisA guide to discovering the shadow wisdom hidden in your birth chart. Recently rediscovered by modern psychology, the shadow self was recognized in ancient teachings as an inseparable part of the human being, a vital portion of who we are. The ancient Egyptians regarded working with the shadow as a necessary part of spiritual growth, and shadow work practices are alluded to in the oldest writings. In this practical guide to shadow astrology, Maja D’Aoust explains how to determine the shadow polarities of your natal chart and explore the hidden wisdom and challenges of the oppositional identity within. She shows how finding your shadow planets is easy—they are the opposite sign of the planets in your birth chart. For example, someone with the sun in Libra will have their shadow sun in Aries. She explains how, just like the traditional planets of astrology, each shadow planet governs a specific area of human activity: Venus shadows speak of taint

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Book SynopsisCollins Gem Palm Reading reveals the ancient art of palm reading. With easy-to-follow diagrams accompanying clear and concise text, this book lays bare the complexities of hand reading.The book provides an introduction to how to read palms so that a beginner will soon be able to uncover the hidden truths of the hand.It first examines the whole hand, analysing the variety of hand shapes, including the compatibility of different hand shapes and the influences of hand shape on health and careers.It then examines the fingers and thumb in detail. Palmists look at the shape of the fingers, their flexibility and their position in relation to one another and make predictions about an individual and their compatibility with others.This examination is followed by looking at the mounts' (the fleshy pads on the palm) and their predictive power and then studying the lines on the palm (an important aspect of palm reading but not the sole element, as suggests by popular myth).By pulling all these aspTrade Review‘Collins Gems are the best in their field when it comes to easy-to-use pocket guides, especially for horoscopes, and this is no exception to the rule’.Amazon

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Book SynopsisFilling a huge gap in our spiritual culture, here--at last--is a comprehensive and elegant translation of the 1854 French masterwork of occult philosophy.The Doctrine and Ritual of High Magic reignited the esoteric spiritual search in the West and led to the emergence of Madame Blavatsky, Manly P. Hall, and the New Age revolution.Lévi's study of magic is an absolute must for every seeker in occult, esoteric, and druidic realms; but this need has been frustrated by dated and inaccurate translations--until now. Greer, a respected occult scholar, and Mikituk, a masterful translator, collaborate to restore this landmark work--complete with its original illustrations and symbols--to the center of the alternative spiritual canon.

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Book SynopsisWhen strange signs appeared in the sky over Québec in 1660, people grew worried about the arrival of evil forces. Barbe Hallay, a teenaged servant, started to act as if possessed, and a miller accused of using dark arts to torment her was executed. Mairi Cowan explores this case of demonic infestation to understand the everyday experiences and deep anxieties of people in New France.Trade Review“This outstanding account of how colonization, demonology, martyrology, and hagiography became intertwined in New France is both fascinating and instructive, providing a textured view of the beliefs and life conditions of Europeans and Indigenous people. In skilfully presenting arresting or amusing material without fanfare, Mairi Cowan takes readers on an emotional as well as an intellectual journey. Most historians cannot achieve this. The Possession of Barbe Hallay is a refreshing and engaging read.” Sarah Ferber, University of Wollongong and author of Demonic Possession and Exorcism in Early Modern France“The Possession of Barbe Hallay is structured around five concise chapters, which mirror the stages of the subject’s life. Only a small portion of this woman’s fifty-year life was affected by demonic possession, which is presented here with integrity, reverence, and page-turning vigour.” Literary Review of Canada

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Book SynopsisTrauma and the Supernatural in Psychotherapy explores how traumatic experience interacts with unconscious phantasy based in folklore, the supernatural, and the occult. Drawing upon psychoanalysis, anthropology, the arts, and esoteric philosophy, Alex Monk presents examples from folklore and literature to enrich his case illustrations which offer therapists important clinical perspectives on ways of working with clients who feel cursed and repeatedly manifest self-sabotaging states. The book examines the challenges that can arise when working with this client population and illustrates how to work through them while navigating potent transferences and projective identifications. Monk illustrates the way in which clients with developmental trauma may experience the supernatural and its psychic representatives as persecutory and/or a source of empowerment and healing. Trauma and the Supernatural in Psychotherapy also considers the historically conflicted relationTrade Review"Alex Monk has written a monograph of great urgency and importance, both for the subtlety of its argumentation and its sensitivity to neglected aspects of psychic life. Modernity can no longer pretend that magical consciousness is an artifact of the past, and Monk’s work triumphs in recommending the integration, rather than the denial, of the weirdness that will not go away." —J. F. Martel, author of Reclaiming Art in the Age of Artifice and co-host of the Weird Studies Podcast "The curse is a powerful image evoking the inexorable workings of an unseen force that works against us, thwarts our efforts, and condemns us to suffering and struggle. It’s a fascinating lens through which to explore clinical work with those individuals who seem perpetually dogged by the dark forces in their own unconscious. This volume artfully ties the age-old, archetypal language of the curse to psychoanalytic thought, providing a unique perspective that brings additional insights to familiar clinical issues." —Lisa Marchiano, Jungian analyst and author of Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself"Alex Monk’s comparative approach is a much welcome development in psychoanalysis. His psychoanalytic perspective on the 'evil eye' phenomenon illustrates the importance of locating clinical work within cross-cultural contexts that also attend to multiple social factors such as economics and class. Monk’s clinical presentations are especially compelling as he reflects upon the impact his patients have on him." —Marsha Aileen Hewitt, University of Toronto, author of Freud on Religion and Legacies of the Occult: Psychoanalysis, Religion, and Unconscious Communication "Alex Monk has written a monograph of great urgency and importance, both for the subtlety of its argumentation and its sensitivity to neglected aspects of psychic life. Modernity can no longer pretend that magical consciousness is an artifact of the past, and Monk’s work triumphs in recommending the integration, rather than the denial, of the weirdness that will not go away." —J. F. Martel, author of Reclaiming Art in the Age of Artifice and co-host of the Weird Studies Podcast "The curse is a powerful image evoking the inexorable workings of an unseen force that works against us, thwarts our efforts, and condemns us to suffering and struggle. It’s a fascinating lens through which to explore clinical work with those individuals who seem perpetually dogged by the dark forces in their own unconscious. This volume artfully ties the age-old, archetypal language of the curse to psychoanalytic thought, providing a unique perspective that brings additional insights to familiar clinical issues." —Lisa Marchiano, Jungian analyst and author of Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself"Alex Monk’s comparative approach is a much welcome development in psychoanalysis. His psychoanalytic perspective on the 'evil eye' phenomenon illustrates the importance of locating clinical work within cross-cultural contexts that also attend to multiple social factors such as economics and class. Monk’s clinical presentations are especially compelling as he reflects upon the impact his patients have on him." —Marsha Aileen Hewitt, University of Toronto, author of Freud on Religion and Legacies of the Occult: Psychoanalysis, Religion, and Unconscious Communication Table of ContentsIntroduction1 Magic and the Supernatural: The Historical Context for the Curse Position2 Mythopoetic Hysteria: The Fin de Siècle 3 The Curse Position (1): Unconscious Phantasy4 The Curse Position (2): The Uncanny 5 The Ancestral Curse6 Imposters of Love: Introjection and Identification7 Redemption & Conditionality: Fairbairn and Relational Trauma8 The Devil’s Culpa: Shame, Guilt, & Evil9 The Evil Eye & Limited Good10 An Alien Seed: Fear and Desire in Psychotherapy

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Book SynopsisOne of the most enigmatic figures in history, Nostradamus - apothecary, astrologer and soothsayer - is a continual source of fascination. Indeed, his predictions are so much the stock-in-trade of the wildest merchants of imminent Doom that one could be forgiven for forgetting that Michel de Nostredame, 1503-1566, was a figure firmly rooted in the society of the French Renaissance. In this bold new account of the life and work of Nostradamus, Denis Crouzet shows that any attempt to interpret his Prophecies at face value is misguided. Nostradamus was not trying to predict the future. He saw himself, rather, as 'prophesying', i.e. bringing the Word of God to humankind. Like Rabelais, for whom laughter was a therapy to help one cope with the misery of the times, Nostradamus thought of himself as a physician of the soul as much as of the body. His unveiling of the menacing and horrendous events which await us in the future was a way of frightening his readers into the realisation that inner hatred was truly the greatest peril of all, to which the sole remedy was to live in the love and peace of Christ. This inspired interpretation penetrates the imaginative world of Nostradamus, a man whose life is as mysterious as his writings. It shows him in a completely new dimension, securing for him a significant place among the major thinkers of the Renaissance.Trade Review"This study by the distinguished historian of Renaissance France, Denis Crouzet, is a milestone in studies of Nostradamus for two reasons: its attention to the sixteenth century context of the prophecies, and its 'anti-interpretation', arguing that the meaning of the texts 'is always left hanging in the air'."Peter Burke, University of Cambridge "In this very subtle and thought-provoking book Denis Crouzet makes sense of Nostradamus precisely by accepting his deliberate obscurity. The extraordinary violence and disquieting imagery of his quatrains can be compared with the paintings of Bosch, portraying a world turned upside down where sin and cruelty presage divine punishment. Crouzet skillfully weaves this into a broader understanding of the spiritual and emotional imaginary of the Reformation era, when all old certainties seemed to be melting down, amidst terrifying human savagery."Robin Briggs, All Souls College, University of OxfordTable of ContentsTranslator�s Preface Introduction. Fragments of History 1. The Place Beyond Words 2. A Self-Contradictory Utterance 3. Treasures Beneath an Oak Tree 4. A Would-Be Astrophile 5. Thresholds Dependant on Subjectivity 6. An Evangelist Cogito 7. �For the Common Profit of Mankind� 8. �A Burning Mirror� 9. Divine Light 10. From the All to the One 11. The Word of Creation 12. An Episteme of Reason 13. Sacredness and Nothingness 14. The Energetics of Obscurity 15. Powers of Evil 16. Man Against Man 17. All the Sins of the World 18. The Horror that Invites Horror 19. Faith: Trial and Tribulations 20. From Alpha to Omega 21. The Philology of Angst 22. The Panic Paradox 23. The Eschataology of the Rainbow 24. The Ontological Turn 25. Liberty in Christ By Way of Conclusion: Why Nostradamus? Notes Chronology Sources and Bibliography

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Book SynopsisAn optimistic, in-depth guide to understanding everything about Mercury in astrology—and yourself. Mercury may be associated with chaotic retrogrades, but it’s also the celestial body that fuels your communication superpowers, thought processes, and how you connect with others. Mercury Magic  reveals all the must-knows about this fascinating planet, including how Mercury retrograde works and tips and tricks for finding the silver lining during these periods. Brush up on astrology basics, discover how to make the most of each season as transiting Mercury moves through each zodiac sign, and explore your self-expression and compatibility with others by identifying and learning about your natal Mercury (the sign and house it was in when you were born). Harnessing the power of the messenger planet—whether it’s direct or retrograde—in your everyday life will empower you to bring your most whimsical dreams and bol

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Book SynopsisA guided tour to the occult and esoteric worlds from a beloved author and scholarFor over 30 years Lon Milo DuQuette has written incisively about the tarot, magick, the Qabalah and divination. The breadth and depth of his knowledge is displayed here in this new collection of his writing. As a whole these essays provide an invaluable introduction to the most important esoteric themes and Occult personalities.Included here are essays on Aleister Crowley, John Dee, H.P. Lovercraft, Israel Regardie and Donald Michael Kraig and many others. He, also, discusses the Qabalah and Tarot, Thelemic Magic, Enochian Magick, Masonry and much more.This book will appeal to those who want an informative guide to the occult and to those who have, through the years, appreciated DuQuette''s studied insight, scholarship and his renowned sense of humour.

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Book Synopsis?A poignant, powerful, inclusive, and deeply personal journey to meet the Great God Anubis. Filled with solid historical information, as well as practical contemporary rituals, magick, healing practices, and prayers, this book drew me in, opened my heart, and made me love dear Anubis even more.? ?Michael Butler Smith, author ofEmbracing Isis Anubis is Egypt?s original Lord of the Dead. That title was eventually transferred to Osiris, but even then, Anubis continued to be the most active participant in the after-death process, supervising rituals that determined what would befall the dead soul. He is credited as the inventor of mummification. A shrine to Anubis, one of the most significant gods of ancient Egypt, was discovered within Tutankhamun?s tomb. The image of Anubis has evolved into a veritable symbol of ancient Egypt. Usually identified as a jackal or as a jackal-headed man, Anubis?s domain extends beyond death?he is a guardian of children and travelers and a finder of lost things. Anubis?s adopted mother, the goddess Isis, became popular outside Egypt, with temples in Rome and as far as the British Isles. As her guardian, Anubis traveled with her. He is as modern as he is ancient, appearing in comic books, video games, and in the book American Gods and its television adaptation. In modern times, Anubis has emerged as a sacred patron of mediums and occultists. In this practical guide to working with Anubis, author Charlie Larson focuses the spotlight squarely on the jackal-headed god. Steeped in history and mythology, Anubis?Ancient Egypt?s Lord of Death and Protection features devotional practices and modern worship that includes rituals, prayers, invocations, correspondences, altars, and epithets. The book leads the reader on a journey of exploration into all things Anubis, delving into his various facets?death deity, psychopomp, and protector.

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Book SynopsisFrom ancient rock and cave art to the contemporary brand logos of politics and business, human beings have always created symbols to denote specific ideas, groups, or important objects as well as to convey deeper information than can be communicated in words. Many glyphs have retained their meanings over millennia whereas some have modern meanings vastly different from the original connotation. In this study of symbols, Nigel Pennick explores glyphs as agents of higher consciousness and ports of access to the collective unconscious, acknowledging the continuity of tradition, both deliberate and not, as well as how interpretations of some symbols, such as the swastika, have changed dramatically. With more than 300 unique woodcuts, drawings, calligraphy, and photographs--many never before reproduced--Pennick examines ancient and enduring glyphs in detail, such as the circle, cross, eye, pentagram, fleur de lis, tree of life, and horseshoe, as well as several families of symbols, such as craftsmen’s marks, runes, symbolic beasts, human heads and skulls, and the sigils of Mammon. The author explains the multiple forms and uses of each from ancient times to the present day, reflecting their roots in the Western Mystery tradition. He explores the symbols of high magic such as the glyph of John Dee’s monad, those of folk magic such as the traditional cock on the weather vane, and the creation of modern glyphs such as the peace sign and the anarchy symbol. Contrasting the hi-jacked use of power symbols in modern advertising with the vital role of symbols in traditional arts and crafts, Pennick reveals how symbols link the cosmic with the terrestrial and allow us to infuse the mundane with the numinous.Trade Review“Symbols are like signposts directing us into the realm of the subconscious and the spiritual; they are flashpoints that stir emotions and trigger deeper--even divine--connections. But they also take on lives of their own, twining across times and cultures, and Nigel Pennick has always had his finger on their pulse. The Book of Primal Signs is a veritable thesaurus of traditional symbolism, spanning from prehistory to today. This is a vital guidebook to a hidden world that is, most thankfully and wondrously, still in plain view.” * Michael Moynihan, coauthor of Lords of Chaos *“Solidly referenced and carefully illustrated, The Book of Primal Signs seems to travel everywhere and touch everything . . .” * RICHARD HEATH, author of Sacred Number and the Origins of Civilization and Sacred Number and the Lor *“This book is highly recommended to researchers and students of the occult as an immensely valuable survey of symbols from an author with sophisticated spiritual insights and an invaluable multi-disciplinary approach to his subject. Kudos!” * Facing North, Elizabeth Hazel, July 2014 *Table of ContentsPreface: Primal Signs, Traditional Glyphs, and Symbols Introduction: A Symbolic WorldPart ITraditional Glyphs, Signs, Sigils, and Symbols in PracticeThe Runes Runic Logos and Defunct Organizations The Pitfalls of Symbology New Names, New Meanings The Public Use of Glyphs Part IIA Box of Glyphs1 The Sun, the Circle, and the Sun Wheel 2 The Akhet and the Twin Towers 3 The Eight-Spoked Wheel 4 Crosses 5 The Crescent Moon, Star, and Comet 6 Solar Light and Lightning 7 The Cosmic or Philosophical Egg 8 The Omphalos 9 The Pineapple 10 The Tree of Life 11 The Fleur-de-Lys 12 The Rose 13 The Heart 14 Human and Eldritch Heads 15 The Swastika 16 The Skirl, Yin and Yang 17 The Pothook 18 The Trefot 19 The Horseshoe 20 Tools and Craft Symbols 21 The X, Gyfu, Daeg, and Ing Glyphs 22 The Hexflower 23 Woven Patterns 24 Plaits and Knots 25 Straw Plaits 26 The Pentagram 27 The Hexagram 28 The Checker 29 House Marks, Craftsmen’s Marks, and Sigils 30 Miscellaneous Magical Glyphs 31 Alternative and New Spiritual Glyphs 32 Local Glyphs 33 Symbolic Beasts 34 The Serpent 35 The Phoenix 36 The Cockerel and Weathercocks 37 The Eye and the Peacock 38 The Sigils of Mammon 39 The Death’s Head Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisDuring Paris’s Belle Époque (1871-1914), many cultural movements and artistic styles flourished--Symbolism, Impressionism, Art Nouveau, the Decadents--all of which profoundly shaped modern culture. Inseparable from this cultural advancement was the explosion of occult activity taking place in the City of Light at the same time. Exploring the magical, artistic, and intellectual world of the Belle Époque, Tobias Churton shows how a wide variety of Theosophists, Rosicrucians, Martinists, Freemasons, Gnostics, and neo-Cathars called fin-de-siècle Paris home. He examines the precise interplay of occultists Joséphin Peladan, Papus, Stanislas de Guaïta, and founder of the modern Gnostic Church Jules Doinel, along with lesser known figures such as Saint-Yves d’Alveydre, Paul Sédir, Charles Barlet, Edmond Bailly, Albert Jounet, Abbé Lacuria, and Lady Caithness. He reveals how the work of many masters of modern culture such as composers Claude Debussy and Erik Satie, writers Arthur Rimbaud and Charles Baudelaire, and painters Georges Seurat and Alphonse Osbert bear signs of immersion in the esoteric circles that were thriving in Paris at the time. The author demonstrates how the creative hermetic ferment that animated the City of Light in the decades leading up to World War I remains an enduring presence and powerful influence today. Where, he asks, would Aleister Crowley and all the magicians of today be without the Parisian source of so much creativity in this field?Trade Review". . . a massive, focused exploration of the relationship between the mystical and the creative. . .This entertaining volume will please fans of esoterica and the City of Light." * Publishers Weekly *“With Tobias Churton as the cicerone--or dare I say psychopomp?--the reader is expertly guided in the labyrinthine world of the Occult Paris of the Belle Époque (1871-1914). This is the best introduction to the French occult revival ever written in English.” * Henrik Bogdan, professor of religious studies at the University of Gothenburg *“Music, art, literature, mysticism--fin-de-siècle Paris had it all in great abundance, and in Tobias Churton’s latest tome he uncovers the hidden and not-so-hidden connections between Satie, Debussy, Redon, Rops, Khnopff, Gauguin, Crowley, Lévi, Papus, Mathers, Péladan, Michelet, Blavatsky, Reuss, Huysmans, Breton, and countless others. . . . Eminently readable and filled with meticulous historical details, this is a fabulous depiction of one of the most exciting and fervent periods of creativity in modern times.” * John Zorn, composer-performer *“A tour de force. A stunning account of fin-de-siècle Occult Paris and its lasting influence on the counterculture. . . . Churton gives comprehensive portrayals of such occult luminaries as Péladan, Papus, and de Guaita as well as a portrayal of their movements and a seminal analysis of esoteric art--in particular the ‘Rosicrucian’ art of the salons--locating its place in the intellectual, cultural, and political milieu of the Belle Époque. Tobias is as erudite as he is excited and exciting. His scholarship is alive with passion, imagination, humor, and, most of all, humanity. A must-read for students of European history, Art Nouveau, Symbolism, Idealism, Surrealism, and the Decadents as well as for neo-Rosicrucian, Templar and Gnostic esotericists, and modern-day alchemists and magicians.” * Stephen J. King (Shiva X°), Grand Master, Ordo Templi Orientis *“No one can evoke the feel of a place and an era like Tobias Churton! This is Paris in the Belle Époque, but behind the city of the can-can, Toulouse-Lautrec, and the Moulin Rouge, Churton shows us a Paris of seekers in mysterious worlds--magic, Hermeticism, Kabbalah, alchemy--and of artists, writers, and composers who were also drawn to those realms. The spirit of their compelling quest is stamped on every page of this book.” * Christopher McIntosh, Ph.D., author of Eliphas Lévi *“Tobias Churton brings this amazing era to life. Gnostics, Free Masons, Rosicrucians, Hermetics…The echos of Paris’ Belle Epoque is still heard in cultural and spiritual movements today.” * The Echo *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments ONE "Memories Weigh More than Stone": Edmond Bailly's Bookshop 1888 Victor-Emile Michelet at Bailly's Bookshop TWO The Build Up Politics and Power Decadence Recovering Lost Powers THREE Meetings with Remarkable Men St. Martin Fabre d'Olivet Eliphas Levi FOUR Theosophy and the Tradition Lady Caithness Saint-Yves d'Alveydre Agarttha FIVE Stanislas de Guaita Abbe Lacuria SIX The Sar The Peladans SEVEN The Kabbalistic Order of the Rose-Cross Vicomte Louis Charles Edouard de Lapasse and the Rose-Croix of Toulouse Peladan and the Templars De Guaita and Boullan The Order Paul Adam Barlet EIGHT Papus Paul Sedir and Marc Haven NINE Rosicrucial Differences The Order of the Catholic Rose-Croix, the Temple and the Graal TEN The Salon of the Century The Manifestation ELEVEN The Boullan Affair TWELVE Satie and Debussy: Moved by the Gnosis Gnossiennes--Erik's Gnostic Twist The Way Out The Esoteric Debussy The Magic in Music THIRTEEN The Gnostic Church Jules Doinel Leonce-Eugene Joseph Fabre des Essarts (1848-1917) Developments within the Gnostic Church--the Palladium Controversy FOURTEEN How to Become a Magus: The Rose-Croix Salons 1893-1897 The Salon of 1893 The Rose-Croix Salons of 1894 and 1895 FIFTEEN The Martinist Order SIXTEEN The Boys Move In Joanny Bricaud (1881-1934) Deodat Roche The Ancient & Primitive Rites of Memphis and Misraim Theodor Reuss, Ancient & Primitive, and the Universal Gnostic Church SEVENTEEN To the End with Papus EIGHTEEN The Legacy: A Forgotten Dream Extramural Synarchy Notes Bibliography

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive guide to the ancient beliefs and spiritual power of subterranean spaces • Examines in depth the myths, symbology, deities, and beliefs connected to the underworld from many different cultures and mystery traditions • Investigates the role of the underworld in initiatory rites and mystical practices, such as the Orphic Mysteries, the chambers of reflections in Freemasonry, the cult of the Black Madonna, and the cult of Isis • Discusses the telluric currents that run through ley lines, the significance of underground waterways, Hollow Earth theory, and the denizens of the subterranean realms, such as dragons, gnomes, and dwarfs Ancient cultures around the world understood the spiritual powers of the underworld. For millennia, natural caves and caverns were turned into sacred underground temples and, from holy mountains and cliffs, churches were beautifully carved into solid rock. Offering a guide to the spiritual energies that flourish beneath the surface of the Earth, Jean-Pierre Bayard explores the esoteric mysteries of the underworld, including the symbolic significance of caves, caverns, and underground temples. He examines in depth the myths, symbology, deities, and beliefs connected to the underworld from many different cultures and mystery traditions, from ancient Egypt to Scandinavia and Europe to the Middle East and India. He investigates the role of the underworld in initiatory rites, such as the Orphic Mysteries and Christ’s descent into hell, revealing that at the heart of these teachings is the transformative power of a hero’s descent into and return from the underworld. The author connects the esoteric attributes of the world below with the cult of the Black Madonna and the earlier cult of Isis. He discusses the telluric currents that run through ley lines, the significance of underground waterways, the esoteric properties of gems and stones, and the “mineral blood” of the alchemists. He also looks at Hollow Earth theory and the denizens of the subterranean realms, such as dragons, gnomes, and dwarfs. Explaining how the Earth is the womb of the world, Bayard shows how initiatic descent into the sacred subterranean realms reflects the descent of spirit into matter and its slow crystallization. By entering the body of the Earth Mother we are transformed, initiated into primordial wisdom and reborn as spiritual beings.Trade Review“. . . steers a careful path between the symbology of Guénon, the scholarship of Eliade, the alchemy of Fulcanelli, and the sensationalism of Pauwels and Bergier. Bayard never loses sight of the essence of the subterranean mysteries: the restoration of our primordial state.” * Joscelyn Godwin, author of Mystery Religions in the Ancient World *“A deliriously speculative and erudite examination of caves. Echoing the modes of writers as divergent as Bachelard and Eliade, Jean-Pierre Bayard’s examination benefits enormously from a deep draft from the font of esoteric wisdom. With these tools he creates a narrative that presents the myth of the cave as a story of human initiation, knowledge, and self-discovery.” * Jesse Bransford, clinical associate professor of visual arts, NYU Steinhardt *“What I also love about this book is how Bayard takes all of this information and somehow manages to not only make it interesting, but to also leave space for the reader to question. There is no feeling that the material presented is the final word on any of the subjects contained within: this is more of collection of writings on a variety of topics that all have an esoteric thread linking them to one another. Each section blends seamlessly into the next and there is enough information in each section that links to the next, something that I found kept me on track and engaged despite the vast amount of information being presented.” * Sarrah October Young, Musing Mystic *Table of ContentsPreface PART ONEThe Symbolism of the Underworld and the Cave 1 Preamble 2 Earth, Mineral Blood 3 The Telluric Currents 4 The Root 5 Underground Water 6 The Rock 7 The Gems from Underground 8 Descent into Hell 9 The Underground Temple 10 Initiatory Passageways and the Tomb of the Christian Woman 11 An Initiatory Passageway: The Underground Labyrinth 12 The Virgin of the Crypt, from Green to Black 13 The Telluric Reptile and the Spiral 14 The Temples in Caves 15 Burial Caves 16 The Underground Factories 17 Conclusion PART TWO The Cavern 18 Preamble 19 The Cave on the Earthly Plane 20 The Cave on the Divine Plane 21 The Cave on the Cosmic Plane 22 Conclusion APPENDIX 1 Extract from the Mytho-Hermetic Dictionary by Dom Antoine-Joseph Pernety, 1758 APPENDIX 2 Hollow Earth Mysticism Notes Bibliography Index

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Book Synopsis• Explores the schools of Solomonic magic around the world and works such as The Greater and Lesser Keys of Solomon the King and The Hygromancy of Solomon • Examines Solomon’s magical possessions, including his famous ring that gave him command over animals, weather, demons, genies, and djinns, as well as his amulets, remedies, exorcisms, and charms • Looks at the extensive presence of Solomon in folklore around the world, including in Armenia, Malaysia, Russia, Bulgaria, Morocco, India, and Egypt Looking at the Solomonic magical tradition and Solomon’s profound influence on esoteric traditions around the world, Claude Lecouteux reveals King Solomon not only as one of the great kings of prehistory but also as the ancient world’s foremost magician and magus. Examining the primary sources on Solomon, such as the Bible, the Koran, and the writings of Flavius Josephus, the author explores Solomon’s judgments, his explorations, his literary and scientific works (including an herbal), and his constructions beyond the eponymous temple, such as the copper city in Andalus built by the djinns and the baths of Sulayman. He also looks at Solomon’s magical possessions, such as his famous ring and the Philosopher’s Stone. The author examines the supernatural powers granted to Solomon by his ring, which he received from the angel Gabriel, including command over animals, weather, and demons, and explores in detail Solomon’s power over genies and djinns.Following the esoteric threads hidden within the primary sources on Solomon, Lecouteux reveals the work of Solomon the Magician, exploring his amulets, remedies, exorcisms, charms, and his influence on Arab and Western magic. Providing illustrations of sigils, talismans, and other magic symbols related to Solomon, the author examines the schools of Solomonic Folkloremagic and works such as The Greater and Lesser Keys of Solomon the King and The Hygromancy of Solomon. He then looks at the extensive presence of Solomon in folklore worldwide, including in Armenia, Israel, Malaysia, Eastern Europe, Russia, Morocco, India, Mongolia, and among the Abyssinians of Ethiopia and the Copts in Egypt. He also looks at Solomon’s role within the Bulgarian tradition from which the Cathars derived. Painting an in-depth portrait of Solomon the Magician-King, Lecouteux reveals how this legendary magus left a deep impression upon the occult, magical traditions, and philosophies of the ancient world that can still be felt to this day.Trade Review“In this splendid compendium, Claude Lecouteux brings together stories, folktales, lore, and legends associated with the Biblical King Solomon. King of ancient Israel, he founded castles and cities as well as a palace of glass and his most famous Temple in Jerusalem. Solomon’s legacy spread across the Middle East into Europe, Africa, and beyond. Reputed author of one thousand and five books of poems, psalms, and songs and three thousand parables, he also interacted with animals, whose languages he understood. Solomon was one of the great historical practitioners of magic. Solomon’s seal and ring gave him power over various kinds of spirits. All his possessions--his net, his throne, and his chalice among them--were infused with magical power. Claude Lecouteux’s masterly reconstruction of the wondrous world of King Solomon from ancient documents is by far the most comprehensive survey yet published of the many different aspects of this ancient and influential monarch.” * Nigel Pennick, author of The Ancestral Power of Amulets, Talismans, and Mascots and Elemental Magic *“Lecouteux’s in-depth study and presentation of the legend and importance of the image of King Solomon in the magical mythology fills an important role in our understanding of the history of the practice of magic in both Europe and Asia. Solomon was ascribed some of the most important magical grimoires and symbols and signs bearing his name that may be found from Arabia all the way into the realm of the Far North in Iceland.” * Stephen E. Flowers, Ph.D., author of Icelandic Magic and Original Magic *“This remarkable book, fully illustrated with archival images, shows Solomon--the mythical man, the mystical man, the personal and cultural man--at ease in a world he co-created with his Creator.” * Gerald Hausman, author of Rastafarian Children of Solomon: The Legacy of the Kebra Nagast and the Pa *“Professor Lecoueux is a well-known historian of medieval cultural history. His new book on the legendary King Solomon represents a convincing proof of the author’s erudition. This excellent work presents a wealth of relevant information about Solomon’s supernormal wisdom, his relations to the world of spirits, his building of the Temple in Jerusalem, and much more. The author’s analysis of Solomon’s relations to shamanism is also very useful. This is a fundamental study of one of the most enigmatic figures in history.” * Ronald Grambo, former professor of folklore at the University of Oslo *“The story of King Solomon is universal, found in different cultures and different sources. His close contact with God, his relations with djinns and exorcists as well as his love for women, made him a universal legend. In this book, the French scholar Claude Lecouteux presents the complete story of King Solomon for us to read.” * Ahmed Osman, author of The Egyptian Origins of King David and the Temple of Solomon *"The author uses The Bible, the writings of Yosef ben Matityahu HaCohen (better known as Flavius Josephus), and the classic book The Thousand and One Nights as primary sources to demonstrate the universality of Solomon the King and Solomon the Magician. No stone is left unturned. Solomon’s relationships with animals, with the djinns, and with his people are explored. The places he lived, the magical talismans he created and used, and more are all discussed. The text is fully illustrated, including images I’ve used myself in crafting protective talismans. The combination of history, legend, and religion makes King Solomon the Magus an important work for anyone who interested in Arabian or Western magic." * The Magical Buffet *Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsINTRODUCTION The Legend of King Solomon PART ONE The King ONE The Source Texts TWO Solomon and the Animals THREESolomon’s ConstructionsFOURThe Judgments of Solomon FIVE Solomon’s Possessions SIX Solomon’s Literary and Scientific Works SEVEN Solomon’s Explorations EIGHT Solomon and the Djinns NINE The Sins of Solomon TEN Solomon and the Queen of ShebaELEVEN Solomon and Death TWELVE Solomon among the Sabaeans PART TWO The Magician THIRTEENThe Testament of Solomon FOURTEEN Solomon’s Hygromancy FIFTEEN The Keys of SolomonSIXTEEN The Other Magic Books SEVENTEEN The Archaeological Traces of Solomon EIGHTEENThe Lapidaries of SolomonNINETEEN The Account of Zosimos of PanopolisTWENTY Solomon’s Successors PART THREE Solomon in Folklore Conclusion Notes Bibliography Index

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Book Synopsis• Explores Kremmerz’s life, his teachings, his work as a hermetic physician, and the metaphysical and hermetic principles that guided his activities • Offers a detailed account of the distance healing practices, diagnostic methods, and rituals of the Fraternity of Myriam • Includes texts written by Kremmerz on the inner workings and magical operations of the fraternity, intended for its practicing members Giuliano Kremmerz (1861-1930), born Ciro Formisano, was one of the most influential Italian occultists, alchemists, and Hermetic masters of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, though he remains almost unknown to English readers. In 1896, Kremmerz began writing about natural and divine magic, healing, and alchemy through the journal Il Mondo Secreto (The Secret World). At the same time, he founded a school known as the Schola Philosophica Hermetica Classica Italica as well as a magical group, the Therapeutic and Magical Fraternity of Myriam. Within the Myriam, he sought to use Hermetic, magical, and Pythagorean principles to harness the power of the psyche and convey collective energies for therapeutic purposes and distance healing. His initiatic order would become the principal esoteric society in Italy--comparable to its British counterpart, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn--but forced to be a carefully guarded secret as Mussolini’s government rose to power. In this unique compilation of essays, David Pantano presents an in-depth study of Kremmerz’s life and work by his student and initiate, Italian esotericist Marco Daffi. Without holding back criticism, Daffi provides a detailed account of the history and practices of the Myriam as well as the metaphysical and Hermetic principles that guided their activities. Revealing Kremmerz’s rediscovery of the occult healing of ancient mystery schools, Daffi also shows how Kremmerz laid the foundation for passing this initiatory tradition on to the new millennium. He explores the means by which Kremmerz said miracles can be performed and the way Hermetic forces affect both bodily health and mystical eroticism. Throughout this collection, David Pantano provides extensive annotations, offering the English reader essential historical and mystical context for Daffi’s work. Connecting to untranslated Italian texts and elucidating Daffi’s poetic style, Pantano’s commentary reveals the particular tradition of Italian esoterism. Pantano also includes rare and unpublished texts written by Kremmerz and intended for the Myriam’s practicing members. Combined, these papers offer a picture of the inner workings and magical operations of this fraternity, available for the first time in English.Trade Review“The Hermetic Physician is an eagerly awaited addition to the growing body of works on Italian Hermeticism, of which Giuliano Kremmerz is its modern embodiment. Heir of the Egyptian- Neapolitan current from which Cagliostro and others were born, Kremmerz sought to reveal esoteric teachings to lessen human suffering through the tool of Hermetic ‘egregores.’ Here, for the first time in the English language, we have the guiding principles and examples of rituals of a healer of miraculous reputation to aid us on our own inner journey and to help us be of service to others on their path as well.” * Mark Stavish, author of Egregores and The Path of Freemasonry *“Pantano’s excellent translations of, and insightful commentaries on, Daffi’s obscure essays gives the reader a rare glimpse into the life and work of the Italian magus Giuliano Kremmerz. From his work in occult therapeutics to order documents pertaining to his Fraternity of Myriam, Kremmerz’s work is finally available to the English-reading public.” * Jaime Paul Lamb, author of Myth, Magick, and Masonry: Occult Perspectives in Freemasonry *“English-speaking people have been in the dark for too long about European esotericism. This fascinating book gives insight into the Italian movement in the early twentieth century, which parallels many developments in the United States.” * Richard Smoley, author of A Theology of Love *“In the English-speaking world, Italian esotericism has long been synonymous with radical Traditionalist Julius Evola. However, shining a light on a fascinating but little-known corner of late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Italy, The Hermetic Physician outlines the life and work of Hermeticist, magician, and healer Giuliano Kremmerz and his Fraternity of Myriam (influenced by the Egyptian Rite of Freemasonry, Martinism, Rosicrucianism, and the ancient Egyptian-Greco-Roman tradition). This volume includes texts written by Kremmerz for members of the fraternity (which was targeted and eventually closed down by the fascist regime of Mussolini) as well as a Sagittarius ritual and an Aries ritual published in Kremmerz’s journal Il Mondo, never before seen in English. Other subjects discussed in this volume include the initiatic chain, the use of therapeutical genii, planetary intelligences, and the effect of the ‘erotic fire’ of sex on healing.” * Angel Millar, author of The Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality: Craftsman, Warrior, Magician *“Translating Marco Daffi’s work, The Hermetic Physician was an obvious labor of love for David Pantano. Thanks to his and Daffi’s efforts we can explore Giuliano Kremmerz’s concepts of Hermetic healing and the fraternity he built around them. Don’t overlook this Hermetic gem!” * Rebecca Elson, publisher of the Magical Buffet website *“Less well known--and unfairly so--outside Italy than his nearcontemporary Julius Evola, Giuliano Kremmerz would find in Marco Daffi (Baron Ricciardo Ricciardelli) a sympathetic chronicler of his Hermetic philosophy, in particular its iatric implications. Now both men have found in David Pantano a translator who does justice to their work, enabling a wider public to discover that union of matter and spirit that for Kremmerz was the sum total of reality.” * David Conway, author of Magic: A Life in More Worlds Than One *“Giuliano Kremmerz was one of the most important figures in the Italian Hermetic tradition in the early twentieth century but heretofore has received little attention in the English-speaking world. The translator, David Pantano, is to be congratulated in spreading awareness of Kremmerz to a wider audience and helping to shed light on his intriguing system of Hermetic medicine.” * Alex Sumner, author of The Magus Trilogy *"Toronto-based writer and researcher David Pantano has done a commendable job translating from Italian to English a collection of essays by the late esotericist and author Marco Daffi (pen name Baron Riccardo Ricciardelli) centering on the work of Guiliano Kremm-erz (Ciro Formisano). While he is nearly unknown to English readers, Kremmerz, who was one of the most influential Italian occultists and alchemists working in the Hermetic tradition. While the history presented in this book is both interesting and important, I feel much of the insights of Kremmerz as interpreted by Daffi to be most valuable as revelations..." * Alan S. Glassman, New Dawn Magazine *Table of ContentsFOREWORD Giuliano Kremmerz’s Position in Italian Esotericism and His Relation to Marco Daffi and Julius Evola by Hans Thomas Hakl TRANSLATOR’S PREFACE Opening Notes by David Pantano INTRODUCTION On Giuliano Kremmerz, His Work and Thought by Marco Daffi PART ONEGiuliano Kremmerz and the Therapeutic-Magical Fraternity of Myriam by Marco Daffi Introduction by Giammaria 1 Giuliano Kremmerz: The Life and the Man The Man The Writer The Master The Therapeut Bibliographic Notes 2 History of the Therapeutic-Magical + Fraternity + of MyriamPART TWO Collected Works on Hermetic Alchemy, Therapy, and Erosby Marco Daffi 3 Introduction by Giammaria 4 Critical Notes on Hermetic Therapeutics 1: June 27-August 24, 1968 90 5 Critical Notes on Hermetic Therapeutics 2: August 31, 1968 6 Notes on the Seven Forms of Intelligence in Hermetic Medicine 7 Eros and the Four Hermetic Bodies Eros The Saturnian Body The Lunar Body The Mercurial BodyThe Solar Body8 On the Opera Omnia of Giuliano Kremmerz APPENDICESSelected Historical Papers of the Fraternity of Myriam by Giuliano Kremmerz A. Introduction by David Pantano B. Credo with a Preface by Giammaria C. The Fundamental Program (Fascicolo A: Programatica Fondamentale) I. Report to the Twelve Supreme Masters of the Operating College II. Statutes and Programs of the MyriamD. Circular to the Presidents of the Fraternity of Myriam, June 29, 1914 E. The Sagittarius Ritual and the Aries Ritual I. PreambleII. Statutes and Program of the Myriam The Sagittarius Ritual The Aries Ritual III. Index

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Book Synopsis• Examines the significant figures and groups of Finland’s occult world, including their esoteric practices and the secret societies to which they were connected • Investigates the relationship of nationalism and esotericism in Finland as well as the history of Finnish parapsychology and the Finnish UFO craze • Looks at the unique evolution of Freemasonry in Finland, showing how, when Finland was still part of Russia and the Masonic order was banned, adherents created a number of other secret societies Finland has long been viewed as the land of sorcerers and shamans. Exploring the rich history of Finnish occultism, Perttu Häkkinen and Vesa Iitti examine the significant figures and groups of Finland’s occult world from the late 19th century to the present day. They begin with Pekka Ervast, known as the Rudolf Steiner of the North, who was a major figure in Theosophy before starting a Rosicrucian group called Ruusu-Risti, and they look at the Finnish disciples of G. I. Gurdjieff and the grim case of the cult of Tattarisuo. Investigating the relationship of nationalism and esotericism in Finland, the authors tell the stories of Sigurd Wettenhovi-Aspa, who thought that Finns were the root of all Western civilization, and of Yrjö von Grönhagen, who became a close friend of Heinrich Himmler and Karl Maria Wiligut. They also explore the history of Finnish parapsychology, the Finnish UFO craze, and the unique evolution of Freemasonry in Finland, showing how, when the Masonic order was banned, adherents created a number of other secret societies, such as the Carpenter’s Order, the Hypotenuse Order, and the Brotherhood of February 17--which later became hubs for the OTO and AMORC. Unveiling both the light and dark sides of modern esotericism in Finland, the authors show how, because of its unique position as partially European and partially Russian, Finland’s occult influence extends into the very heart of left-hand and right-hand occult groups and secret societies around the world.Trade Review“A pioneering work, well-written, insightful, and darkly humorous, Lightbringers of the North allows English language readers to delve for the first time into that shadow side of the Finnish soul, where they will find many marvelous, strange, and terrifying things--both tragic and majestic but perhaps also illuminations of the True North.” * Aki Cederberg, author of Journeys in the Kali Yuga *“In any old Scandinavian ghost story, there’s always the ‘scary old Finn’ with the power of second sight. This stereotype from Finland’s neighbors reveals an archaic thread in Finnish culture that has made Finland a great place for the occult notions of the last three hundred years to grow and mutate into something rich and strange. Until this wonderful volume we had no idea how rich, how strange, and (in contrast) how useful and practical. This is a volume for every serious occultist and scholar’s shelf.” * Don Webb, author of Overthrowing the Old Gods and How to Become a Modern Magus *“This well-researched and fascinating book is a real mind-opener— in many ways. Not only thanks to Finland’s unique history, containing so many larger-than-life individuals and events, but also on a general level in which we learn again and again that human beings will always gravitate toward the magical and miraculous in order to achieve genuine transformation. This particular Finnish prism or perspective is engaging as well as inspiring and provides a truly mesmerizing reading experience.” * Carl Abrahamsson, author of Occulture: The Unseen Forces That Drive Culture Forward *“Lightbringers of the North is among the rarest sorts of work a reader can expect to find. It reveals dark corners of knowledge and experience in a completely contemporary setting, yet one that is deeply embedded in the traditions of the Finnish north-world. The events described seem to stem from the most profound realm, yet the authors are able to bring this into the sphere of understanding of the discerning reader of today--a treasure trove of dark powers.” * Stephen E. Flowers, Ph.D., author of Lords of the Left-Hand Path *“Lightbringers of the North takes the reader on an informative, vivid, and exciting journey to the esoteric world that has often been forgotten in the Finnish history of religions and spirituality. The gallery of the lightbringers and their life stories are truly captivating. The book shows how the hunger for the spiritual and arcane knowledge can take various forms, expressing many aspects of human life, tragic, deep, sometimes even hilarious.” * Jussi Sohlberg, research coordinator at the Church Institute for Research and Advanced Training of F *"The authors of Lightbringers of the North cover a tremendous amount of occult Finnish history. They even delve into the background of Freemasony there, back when Finland was still part of Russia and the Masonic order was banned, causing adherents to create a number of secret societies like the Carpenter’s Order, the Hypotenuse Order, and the Brotherhood of February 17, including how following Finland’s independence from Russia in 1917, lodges began to reappear once again. Being heavily into UFO personalities, stories, and groups for well over half a century now, I was especially interested in reading about Finnish Ufology." * Brent, Raynes, Alternate Perceptions Magazine *"The authors of Lightbringers of the North have an ambitious goal of providing a thorough account of Finnish esotericism, mainly through individual histories. While this is virtually impossible within one book, the authors offer an impressive contribution to the discourse on esotericism and New Age movements in Finland. Although the book is aimed at a general audience, it is also likely to be useful for scholarly researchers." * ntti Savinainen, Quest: Journal of the Theosophical Society in America *Table of ContentsIntroduction1 Pekka Ervast, the Light of the North 2 Gurdjieff and the Stjernvalls 3 The Hand in the Spring: The Mystery of Tattarisuo4 The Clairvoyant of the Nation 5 “Demon est Deus inversus, Christus verus Luciferus”: The Infernal Life of Pekka Siitoin, the Archbishop of Lucifer6 Occultism and Nationalism 7 Nightside of the Soul: Parapsychology, Hypnosis, and Strange Thrills 8 Jorma Elovaara, the Wellington Boot Prophet9 “We Come From Everywhere”: The Esoteric History of Finnish Ufology 10 Kauko Nieminen, the Santa Claus of Kulosaari 11 Ior Bock, the Sperm Magician of Gumbostrand12 Lin gHa-Rej, Alias Aswa Haidar el-Hayyat, Alias Reima Saarinen: The Sex Magick Soldier of Turku 13 The Initiation of Docent Hannu Rauhala 14 Tapio Kotkavuori, Escapee15 Finland’s Lightbringers Today Epilogue In Memory of Perttu Häkkinen Bibliography Index About the Authors

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Book SynopsisA complete guide to working with the Birth Odus of your Orishas Birth Chart• Offers step-by-step instructions to calculate your Birth Odus and cast your full Orisha Birth Chart• Presents detailed interpretations of each of the 16 Birth Odus, showing how their energies manifest in an individual’s personality, relationships, financial status, and general approach to life• Shares self-transformation techniques to help you improve the positive qualities of your chart while embracing, integrating, and neutralizing negative energies and tendenciesMuch like the celestial influences revealed by a natal astrology chart or the numerology of your birth date, African spiritual traditions believe that every person has specific personal energies ruling how we relate to each other and the way we foresee and achieve life goals. Called the birth Odus, these inner energies influence your choices and decisions throughout life, defining and differentiating you from everyone else--and revealing the best ways to maximize your potential and meet the challenges you face. Offering a complete guide to discovering, interpreting, and working with your birth Odus, Diego de Oxóssi details step by step how to calculate your birth Odus and cast your full Orisha birth Chart. He explains the Afro-Brazilian concept of numerology and its relationship with the 16 Odus and their related Orishas, the deities of the Afro-Brazilian spiritual tradition. He explores how to determine the influences in the major and minor houses of your Orisha birth chart, including those related to personality and identity, career and success, relationships and love, and challenges and personal evolution. Presenting case studies from his practice, the author offers detailed interpretations of each of the 16 birth Odus, showing how their energies manifest in an individual’s life. He looks at the positive and negative aspects of each Odu, including how the negative aspects represent the shadow forces that one has to overcome to succeed in life. He offers self- transformation techniques to help you improve the positive qualities of your chart while embracing, integrating, and neutralizing the negative energies and tendencies. Revealing how to better know yourself and understand the spiritual dynamics behind your choices and behaviors, this guide shows you how to work with the energies of the Odus and the strength of the Orishas to improve your communication and relationship skills, overcome life’s challenges, and ensure success and happiness on your life’s path.Trade Review“Diego de Oxóssi has written an easy-to-understand guide on divination in the Afro- Brazilian esoteric system. Afro-Brazilian Numerology explains each of the 16 birth Odus and the influence of these powerful signs on the life, success, relationships, and manifestation of each individual.” * Elhoim Leafar, santero and author of Manifestation Magic: 21 Rituals, Spells, and Amulets for Abunda *Table of ContentsSpecial Thanks 1 If You Don’t Know Where You’re Going, Any Road Can Take You There 2 How to Use This Book PART 1 A Guide to the Traditional Odus 3 Getting to Know the Odus 4 The Sixteen Odus 5 Cowrie Shell Divination: The Orishas’ VoicesPART 2 Discovering the Odus in Your Orisha Birth Chart 6 Birth Odus: The Basis of African Numerology 7 The Orisha Birth Chart PART 3 Awakening Your Better Self8 Transforming Others through Self-Transformation 9 The Inner Revolution 10 Other Applications of African Numerology APPENDIX Sample Worksheet Pages References Index About the Author

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Book SynopsisTraces the history of good fortune traditions from sacred divination to modern gambling. Some believe that our future is predetermined, while others assert that we have free will and our future can take many different courses depending on our actions. In ancient times, it was believed that the will of the gods determined people’s lives, and divination or sacrifices to the gods could change or improve one’s future. Of the deities devoted to luck and the future, the Roman goddess Fortuna is most famous, having two shrines in Italy where divination was conducted under her guardianship. Tracing the history of the culture of good fortune from sacred divination to profane gambling, Nigel Pennick explores the many ways people through the centuries have sought to divine the future, ensure protection, and draw the full benefits from days of good omen. He shows how dice were originally considered sacred objects of divination and reveals the divinatory g

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Book SynopsisAn in-depth guide to attaining the enlightenment of the Philosopher’s Stone. Inspired by alchemists of the past, R. E. Kretz explores the mechanics of the Philosopher’s Stone, the Pythagorean transmigration of the soul, and the alchemical path for attaining enlightenment. After offering a brief historical overview of alchemy and historical etiologies of the three alchemical states of primal matter, the author details an illustrative geometric approach for the creation of the Philosopher’s Stone using an “oblong square” (created by three overlapping circles with the center circle squared), the same shape described in Freemasonry as the form of a Masonic Lodge. He compares this diagram to depictions of the Stone in Mesopotamian, Egyptian, and Hindu cultures as well as floorplans for European cathedrals. He shows how the form of the oblong square contains Masonic working tools and how its sacred geometry elucidates Man as mind, body, and spirit encapsulating a soul. Describing the relationship between the alchemical oblong square diagram and the electrical circuit of the brain, the author then details the operative process of the Philosopher’s Stone, likening it to the “servomechanism” of the Third Eye—comprised of the thalamus, pineal gland, and pituitary gland located between the twin pillars of the cerebral hemispheres. He explores how to navigate the twin pillars of the brain to find equilibrium, the third pillar. The author explains that we attain enlightenment when the energies of our Third Eye are balanced (in equilibrium), enabling it to resonate as a harmonic waveform generator. He shows how this can be achieved through meditation and the synchronizing vibration of vocal mantras. Drawing on Rosicrucianism, Freemasonry, Hermeticism, sacred geometry, and Native American shamanism, this book presents an allegorical quest for the Philosopher’s Stone and a practical path for attaining it.Trade Review“As an initiate of both Sufism and Freemasonry, this book answered many questions that the modern lodge did not give me. The purpose of life and the alchemical transformation of man are the questions that are answered here. I’m truly grateful for R. E. Kretz and this great work.” * Salman Sheikh, Freemason, Masonic lecturer, and author of The Spiritual Reflections of the Sufi Free *"Enlightenment, meditation, and the powers of the human body and mind have never been so clearly described, illustrated, and made accessible to everyone, until now with the publication of The Alchemical Search for the Unified Field." * Feathered Quill Book Reviews *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments PROLOGUE The Bell, the Book, the Candle INTRODUCTIONMy Curiosity for Truth PART 1 Bell 1 The Order of Ophiuchus 2 Thoughtful Morsels3 The Kingdom of Heaven PART 2 Book 4 The Philosophers’ Stone 5 An Oblong Square 6 Elements of the Stone 7 Life and Death 8 The Stairway to Heaven9 Regeneration PART 3 Candle 10 The Making of a Shaman 11 Finding the Grail EPILOGUE The Hermit’s Lantern Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA KEY TO THE MYSTERIESNo other book in history has done more to clarify the Esoteric, mystical, and occult traditions of the world than Manly P. Hall's The Secret Teachings of All Ages. Now, historian Mitch Horowitz provides the first companion work to Hall's opus. The Secret Teachings of All Ages helps twenty=first-century readers enter and experience (or re-experience) Hall's hallowed pages and also clarifies and expands on some of the book's key themes and topics.Mitch explores developments and historical discoveries since hall published his Great Book nearly a century ago and adds fresh dimensions to subjects including: The antiquity and legacy of Ancient Egypt. The mystical origins of the world's major faiths. Strange beasts and anomalies in history and today. The origins and esotericism of Tarot. Secret Societies in Myth and Fact. The enduring relevance of astrology. Authorized by Manly P. Hall's Philosophical Research Society, The Secret Teachings of All Ages is a feast of esoteric exploration on its own and a worthy companion to history's unparalleled encyclopedia arcana.Mitch is a fantastic tour guide to the fringes of reason, high weirdness, deep esoterica, secret societies, and mystery religions. BoingBoing Has the rare gift of making the esoteric accessible to discerning masses. HuffPost

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Book SynopsisFrom Cleopatra to Chaos Magic: A Vibrant, Epic History of Occultism in Thought and Practice In his most sweeping historical work, occult scholar and widely known voice of esoteric ideas Mitch Horowitz presents a lively, intellectually serious historical exploration of modern occultism, from astrology and alchemy to the dawn of Theosophy and modern witchcraft—and the spiritual revolutions that followed.In this lively, full-circle history, Mitch explores: Preservation of “hidden wisdom” in late-ancient Hermeticism. Rebirth of esoterica during the Renaissance, including Kabbalah, ceremonial magick, alchemy, Gnosticism—and the backlash culminating in the Thirty Years’ War. Rise of the modern “secret society,” such as Rosicrucians, Freemasons, and Illuminati. Migration of religious radicalism to the New World, including how enslaved people devised the magickal system of hoodoo. Wave of occultism ignited by John Dee, the Romantics, Franz Anton Mesmer, Eliphas Lévi, and P.B. Randolph. The revolution brought by occult explorer Madame H.P. Blavatsky. Growth of New Thought and mind metaphysics. How fin de siècle scientists devised clinical protocols to study the supernatural. Occult influences in politics: a delicate topic weighed maturely. Heterodox movements and figures such as The Process Church, TOPY, Michael Aquino, and Anton LaVey. Pioneering voices including Manly P. Hall, Aleister Crowley, Rudolf Steiner, Edgar Cayce, Carl Jung, Gerald Gardner, Jack Parsons, Annie Besant, G.I. Gurdjieff, Alice Bailey, Austin Osman Spare, and Carlos Castaneda. Surprising occult influences on wide-ranging modern icons such as Frederick Douglass, Sigmund Freud, and Isaac Newton. How models of interdimensionality are loosening the hold of materialism on modern thought.

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Book SynopsisAlmost two decades after writing his famous The Occult, Colin Wilson re-examined the whole spectrum of the mystical and paranormal, producing a general occult theory that remains as compelling as the evidence of atomic particles. Originally published in 1988, Beyond the Occult contains a huge amount of new material and evidence, which came to light following publication of The Occult. It combines scientific thinking on the nature of physical reality with a wide range of fascinating case studies, from the Swiss dowser who located the body of a missing woman to the lucky American whose dreams foretold the winning horses in multiple races to scores of accounts of mystical experiences of the Divine, of spirit possession and of poltergeists. Part One covers the amazing hidden powers of the human mind: ESP, clairvoyance, psychometry, precognition, psychokinesis, and dowsing. Part Two considers the more mysterious forces for good or evil – poltergeists, spirit possession, and reincarnation – that convinced Colin Wilson of the reality of disembodied spirits. In Beyond the Occult, Colin Wilson puts forward a convincing case that our so-called 'normal' experience may, in fact, be subnormal, and that evolution may have brought us near the edge of a quantum leap into a hugely expanded human consciousness. This new edition includes a foreword by Colin Wilson's biographer, Colin Stanley.

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Book Synopsis'A major work ... an extraordinary tour de force, [this book] will materially help to bring both sides (science and paranormal studies) together in a way which could lead to real and important advances in our view of the universe' – New Scientist First published in 1978, Mysteries is the powerful and enlightening sequel to The Occult, continuing Colin Wilson's investigations into the paranormal, the occult and the supernatural. The experience of his own panic attacks gave Wilson his insight into the concept of the ladder or hierarchy of selves with which we are all associated. In this book he fully explores this idea of multiple selves, explaining how our lower, childish selves are linked to depression and anxiety. The book offers an optimistic message to counteract our contemporary tendency towards pessimism and nihilism: purposeful activity will always allow us to call on our higher selves and bring concentration, control and a sense of meaning into life. Wilson uses the concept of the multi-personality to explain a wide range of paranormal phenomenon, from dowsing and demonic possession to precognition and spoon-bending, and he analyses the work of all the big names in 20th-century supra-rational research (from T C Lethbridge to Margaret Murray to Carl Jung) from this perspective. The story ranges widely, from the stone circles to 1960s LSD adventures, and Wilson's analysis is woven with hundreds of entertaining paranormal anecdotes and case studies taken from throughout history, including his own experiences of dowsing at the Merry Maidens stone circle and of visions and lucid dreaming.

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Book SynopsisThis terrific book is a guide to the occult world, featuring 10 itineraries and maps of magical tours across the globe. Spanning countries and continents in pursuit of occult themes, it is meant to be pursued by the astral or armchair traveller rather than on the ground, although we expect readers to be inspired to plan epic trips of their own. It takes a fantastically fresh approach to the occult, with a nod to the retro Shell Guides in the use of collage artwork and humorous, on-point suggestions of places to stay and eat. Expand your occult horizons by trying these tours – and many more! Necromancy through the Ages Tour: Travel from Ancient Nineveh to northern England, tracing sites of necromantic practice. Crowley & Choronzon Desert Tour: Hike across the Algerian desert in the footsteps of the magicians Aleister Crowley and Victor Neuburg, invoking angels and meeting the terrifying demon Choronzon. The Descent & Rise of Witchcraft Tour: Visit the temples of Hekate and Circe in Turkey and Italy, the Spanish sites of the Inquisition's witch-hunts, and the haunts of the Norse sorceresses. Curse, Protect and Divine Tour: Travel across Europe to the United States and Kenya unearthing buried curses and counter-magic, from tiny frog coffins in Finnish churches to sinister village hexes. After completing the journeys, the book offers the unique Geonomicon – a simple divinatory and meditational tool that invites the reader to develop their own creative approach to magical practice.Trade Review"A splendid and informative book . . . absolutely jam-packed with useful information about the occult and what's even better, it is written in a very engaging style." - Phenomena magazine

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