Book 4, Pt. 3 - Magick In Theory & Practice
Magick in Theory and Practice is Part 3 of Aleister Crowley's four-part masterwork Magick: Liber ABA, Book Four, a foundational resource of modern magick, occultism, and hermeticism. Crowley's unparalleled knowledge of magick (which is defined as the effort, in Wicca and certain other belief systems, undertaken to affect personal transformation or external change), acquired as both scholar and practitioner, made him one of the world's leading experts on the subject. He was a British occult mystic who even created his own esoteric, magick-based spiritual philosophy called Thelema, for which he wrote the sacred texts.
Witch, Warlock, and Magician
Witch, Warlock, and Magician by William Henry Davenport Adams was first published in 1889. Magic and the occult have a long history in Britain, with alchemists such as Roger Bacon, astrologers such as William Lilly, and occultists such as John Dee (a favourite with Queen Elizabeth I). Of course, there is also the less savoury side of that history - the witch hunts and trials of the 16th century. This book explores a select few notable figures in the world of magic, as well as discussing the history of witchcraft. Chapters include: Roger Bacon: The True And The Legendary; The Story Of Dr. John Dee; Dr. Dee’s Diary; Magic And Imposture: A Couple Of Knaves; The Last Of The English Magicians: William Lilly; English Rosicrucians; Early History Of Witchcraft In England; Witchcraft In England In The Seventeenth Century; The Decline Of Witchcraft In England; The Witches Of Scotland; and, The Literature Of Witchcraft.
Book 4, Pt. 2 - Magick (Theory)
Magick is Part 2 of Aleister Crowley's four-part masterwork Magick: Liber ABA, Book Four, a foundational resource of modern magick, occultism, and hermeticism. Crowley's unparalleled knowledge of magick (which is defined as the effort, in Wicca and certain other belief systems, undertaken to affect personal transformation or external change), acquired as both scholar and practitioner, made him one of the world's leading experts on the subject. He was a British occult mystic who even created his own esoteric, magick-based spiritual philosophy called Thelema, for which he wrote the sacred texts.
Demon Possession and Allied Themes
Demon possession and Allied Themes; Being an Inductive Study of Phenomena of Our Own Times, is a book by American Protestant missionary, John Livingstone Nevius, first published in 1894. Nevius was stationed in China and wrote several books on the subjects of Chinese religion and spirit possession. His interest in the phenomenon of spirit possession was sparked off by conversations about the supernatural with his language tutor, Mr. Tu; the Chinese had a strong belief in the reality and power of the spirit world that was part of an animistic tradition in Chinese folk religion. This book discusses demon possession mainly in China, but also covers India, Japan, and other countries, as well as covering the pathological, biblical, and pyschological theories of possession.
The Root of the World
The operation of the alchemical elements in forty-seven revealing steps. The bodies of all natural things being as well perfect as imperfect from the original of time, and compounded of a quaternity of elements or natures, viz., fire, air, earth, water, are conjoined by God Almighty in a perfect unity. In these four elements is hid the secret of the philosophers. The earth and water give corporeity and visibility; the fire and air, the spirit and invisible power, which cannot be seen or touched but in the other two. When these four elements are conjoined, and made to exist in one, they become another thing; whence it is evident, that all things in nature are composed of the said elements, being altered and changed.
The Astral Plane
The Astral Plane is a book by English Theosophist Charles Webster Leadbeater, first published in 1895. Beginning with a breakdown of the structure, inhabitants, and behaviours of the Astral Plane, and using references from Hindu and Buddhist myths and beliefs, Leadbeater gives a guided tour of the various planes of the universe. With creatures such as black magicians, vampires, werewolves, elemental essences, fairies, and angels, and phenomena including churchyard ghosts, mysterious bell ringing, clairvoyance, second sight, spirit photographs, slate writing, and levitation.
The Sepher Ha-Zohar Or The Book of Light
This is the only extensive translation of a portion of the Zohar, the longest and one of the most important texts of the Kabbalah, in the public domain. The Zohar is a Kabbalistic commentary on the Hebrew Bible. Well before the emergence of the 'Bible Code,' Jewish scholars endeavored to extract profound meanings from every syllable of the Hebrew Bible, employing methods such as numerology, gematria, and various other techniques. Within this book, numerous pages are dedicated to analyzing the hidden significance behind the initial letters of Genesis. Infinitesimal details and shifts in wording, which you may have come across and forgotten long ago, unveil vast vistas of a mysterious world within our own. This is not a critical edition; written by a pseudonymous Theosophist, probably British, it is laced with out-of-place terminology such as 'Karma' and 'Planes.' It nevertheless gives us a glimpse of one of the most magical of the world's sacred texts.
Ancient Mysteries and Modern Masonry
Ancient Mysteries and Modern Masonry is a book by American Universalist clergyman Charles H. Vail. First published in 1909, it consists of a series of lectures, first given in Pullman Memorial Church, Albion, New York. The purpose of these lectures was to consider the origin and nature of the ancient mysteries and to show the relation which they bear to modern day Freemasonry. The lectures include: The Origin And Object Of The Ancient Mysteries; The Egyptian, Hindu, And Persian Mysteries; The Druidical, Gothic, Grecian, And Jewish Mysteries; The Christian Mysteries; The Meaning Of True Initiation; The Origin And History Of Freemasonry; The Origin And History Of The Knights Templars And The Ancient And Accepted Scottish Rite; and, The Symbols And Legends Of Masonry.
The Magus, Book 1
The Magus, or Celestial Intelligencer; being a Complete System of Occult Philosophy is a handbook of the occult and ceremonial magic by English occultist Francis Barrett, first published in 1801. This is Book 1 of 2. Few people, even today, know that The Magus is a compilation, almost entirely consisting of selections from Cornelius Agrippa's Three Books of Occult Philosophy, the Fourth Book of Occult Philosophy attributed to Agrippa and the Robert Turner's 1655 translation of the Heptameron of Peter of Abano. Barrett made a few modifications and modernized the spelling and syntax of these selections. It deals with the natural magic of herbs and stones, magnetism, talismanic magic, alchemy, numerology, the elements, and biographies of famous adepts from history.
Theosophy
A clear, concise explanation of human nature; the worlds of body, soul, and spirit; the laws of reincarnation; and the workings of karma. It is a key work for gaining a solid footing in spiritual reality as described by Rudolf Steiner. Organized into four parts. First, Steiner builds a comprehensive understanding of human nature: physical bodily nature; soul qualities; spirit being, or I-being; and the higher spiritual aspects. In the next section, Steiner offers an overview of the laws of reincarnation and the principles of karma, as we pass from one life to the next. This prepares us for the third section, in which he shows the various ways in which we live, during life on earth and after death and in the three worlds of body, soul, and spirit. Finally, we are given a succinct description of the path of knowledge, along which each person can begin to understand the marvelous and harmonious complexity of the psycho-spiritual worlds in their fullness.
Problems of Mysticism and Its Symbolism
Problems of Mysticism and Its Symbolism by Dr. Herbert Silberer was first published in 1914, and republished later under the title Hidden Symbolism of Alchemy and the Occult Arts. The author was a psychoanalyst who was one of Sigmund Freud's trusted fellow psychoanalysts - a circle that also included Carl Jung, among others. This book was Silberer's magnum opus, and it starts with an allegorical text known as the Parabola Allegory. This allegory, which is a Rosicrucian text from the seventeenth century, is in the same vein as The Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz. In his book, Silberer discusses how the allegory can be interpreted using Freud's methods of analysis. He then goes on to compare this with other symbolism of mystic traditions such as alchemy, hermeticism, and Kundalini Yoga, exploring the notion that by descending into the psyche, one can access great spiritual treasures. The conclusion being that whilst Freudian methods go so far, they can not fully interpret the meaning nor the process of dream spirituality or creative output.
The range of the book means that not only does it encompass the scientific and psychological aspect, but also becomes a book of mysticism itself as it discusses the transmutation of the soul. Both Silberer and Jung were eventually rejected by Freud, and Jung later spoke of the massive psychological effect that this had on him, and he believed the same was true for Silberer who took his own life 9 years after the split with Freud.
Illustrations of Masonry
Fully illustrated, this is one of the first published accounts of US Freemasonry in the early 19th century. This book has a controversial backstory which is part of the mythology of anti-Freemasonry. William Morgan, the author, was a disappointed Freemason in Batavia, New York. Rejected by the local lodge, he announced that he was going to publish a work exposing Masonic rituals and secrets. Shortly before publication in 1826, he disappeared, and three Masons were later convicted of kidnapping him. Although claims were made that Morgan had been murdered, some say that he was forced to leave the US. Either way, it was good publicity for this book, which was published in 1827, but bad for the Masons. The incident led to widespread protests against Freemasons in the US, and eventually an anti-Masonic Party, which at its height in 1832 got seven electoral votes for William Wirt for President.
The Secret Science Behind Miracles
The Secret Science Behind Miracles is a book by New Age author Max Freedom Long, first published in 1948. Purported to be a book about the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Hawaiian kahunas, Long apparently never spoke to any of the ceremonial people whilst he was working in Hawaii as a teacher. After leaving the country, convinced that he would never learn these secrets, he woke one day with a revelation that the secrets were encoded into the Hawaiian language itself. He called the religious system he developed from this revelation 'Huna' (the Hawaiian word for secret), and wrote his first book in 1936 to chronicle his beliefs. However, it is worth noting, that contemporary scholars consider the system to be his invention, designed through a mixture of a variety of spiritual practices from various cultures, with roots in New Thought and Theosophy, rather than in traditional Hawaiian beliefs.
Symbolical Masonry
A really interesting book about Freemasonry, covering pretty much everything you could possibly want to know about the rituals, the first three degrees, the mysteries (such as the letter 'G'), the legend of Hiram Abiff, and much more. Other subjects covered include, The Emblems, The Trowel, The Two Great Pillars, Working Tools Of An Entered Apprentice, The Apron, The Hoodwink, and, The Petition For Membership.
The Book of Talismans, Amulets and Zodiacal Gems
With 10 illustrative Plates. This is a study of the symbolism of precious stones, and how they have been used as magical objects through the ages, both intrinsically, and as a vehicle for symbolic engravings. The book covers Hindu, Jewish, Chinese, Egyptian, Roman, Gnostic, and Christian lore of gems. The final section discusses the astrological connections of key gems, sign by sign. This work also includes quite a bit of history of important (and often 'cursed') stones such as the Hope diamond, and practical advice about purchasing gems. Anyone interested in the symbolism of gemstones will find this a great reference and a fascinating read.
Advanced Course in Yogi Philosophy and Oriental Occultism
Advanced Course in Yogi Philosophy and Oriental Occultism is a book by American occultist, William Walker Atkinson, writing under the pseudonym Yogi Ramacharaka. The book was first published in 1905 and contains twelve lessons that were originally issued in the shape of monthly lessons during a period of twelve months beginning with October 1904, and ending September 1905. These lessons were intended as a continuation of, or sequel to 'The Fourteen Lessons in Yogi Philosophy and Oriental Occultism' issued during the previous year. The lessons cover subjects such as spiritual consciousness, light on the path, yoga (karma, gnani, bhakti), dharma, and mind and spirit.
Jewish Magic and Superstition
Jewish Magic and Superstition is a book by Joshua Trachtenberg, first published in 1939. A comprehensive review of Jewish magic from the 10th to the 15th century, including an exploration of folklore. Many well-known Jewish traditions are explained, such as why a glass is broken at a wedding, and how the expression mazel tov is related to a belief in Astrology. Trachtenberg deals extensively with Golems, Succubi, the Lillim, (from Lilith, Adam's first wife), and other magical creatures, some well known such as werewolves, and others not so well, such as estrie, mare and broxa. There are detailed descriptions of talismans, amulets, charms, and other curious magical objects. There are chapters dealing with dream interpretation, medical beliefs, necromancy, and other forms of divination. The author was a reform rabbi on the east coast of the US. This is an elaboration of his Columbia University Ph.D. thesis.
Aspects of Occultism
Aspects of Occultism is a book by English occultist Dion Fortune, originally published posthumously in 1962. It contains several esoteric essays, exploring subjects such as evocative magic, Druidic places of worship, reincarnation, connections between Christianity and the Qabalah (Fortune has been described as a devout mystical Christian), the astral realm, the worship of Isis, auras, spiritual healing, cycles of power, and our relationship with the Higher Self.
Fourteen Lessons in Yogi Philosophy and Oriental Occultism
Fourteen Lessons in Yogi Philosophy and Oriental Occultism by American occultist William Walker Atkinson was first published in 1904 under the pseudonym Yogi Ramacharaka. Written at a time when eastern religion and philosophy were getting popular with Western audiences, these fourteen lessons were originally part of a correspondence class course. The book is a basic introduction to yogi philosophy and starts with the seven principles of man - physical, astral, prana, instinctive intelligence, intellect, spiritual mind, and spirit. When Atkinson wrote under the pseudonym Yogi Ramacharaka, he claimed to be a Hindu, and as this persona, he helped to popularize Eastern concepts in America, with Yoga and a broadly-interpreted Hinduism being particular areas of focus. The works of Yogi Ramacharaka were published over the course of nearly ten years beginning in 1903.
The Book of Ceremonial Magic
The Book of Ceremonial Magic is a book by English occultist Arthur Edward Waite, first published in 1913. Subtitled, 'The Secret Tradition in Goëtia, including the rites and mysteries of Goëtic theurgy, sorcery and infernal necromancy', this book explores the procedures of all of the famous Grimoires, including the Key of Solomon, the Grimorium Verum, the apocryphal Fourth Book of Cornelius Agrippa, and, the Black Pullet. It includes the rituals of ceremonial magic, the literature, the rituals of black magic, as well as the complete grimoires. This book is the second edition of a work first published in 1898, and which was originally called The Book of Black Magic and of Pacts.
The Art of Distillation
The Art of Distillation is a book by seventeenth-century English physician, John French, first published in 1651. The full title of the work is 'The Art of Distillation, Or, A Treatise of the Choicest Spagyrical Preparations Performed by Way of Distillation, Being Partly Taken Out of the Most Select Chemical Authors of the Diverse Languages and Partly Out of the Author's Manual Experience together with, The Description of the Chiefest Furnaces and Vessels Used by Ancient and Modern Chemists, also A Discourse on Diverse Spagyrical Experiments and Curiosities, and of the Anatomy of Gold and Silver, with The Chiefest Preparations and Curiosities Thereof, and Virtues of Them All, All Which Are Contained In Six Books'. The book, which has 42 woodcut illustrations, is a detailed handbook of the knowledge and practice at the time, and is said to be possibly the earliest definitive book on distillation.
The Mysteries of All Nations
The Mysteries of All Nations is a book by James Grant, first published in 1880. A huge treasure trove of folklore, occult practices, magic, and much more including a chapter about the history of the witch trials. The book's full title is 'The Mysteries Of All Nations: Rise And Progress Of Superstition, Laws Against And Trials Of Witches, Ancient And Modern Delusions, Together With Strange Customs, Fables, And Tales Relating To Mythology, Days And Weeks, Miracles, Poets And Superstition, Monarchs, Priests, And Philosophers, Druids, Demonology, Magic And Astrology, Divination, Signs, Omens, And Warnings, Amulets And Charms, Trials By Ordeal, Curses And Evil Wishes, Dreams And Visions, Superstition In The Nineteenth Century.'
Isis Unveiled
Isis Unveiled: A Master-Key to the Mysteries of Ancient and Modern Science and Theology was Blavatsky's first major work on theosophy, examining religion and science in the light of Western and Oriental ancient wisdom and occult and spiritualistic phenomena. While it is considered an important work in Western esotericism, it has also been criticised for plagiarism. However, it has been noted by some that there may have been an agenda to expose Blavatsky as an imposter, and that instead it should be acknowledged that she did formulate a unique set of occult ideas, and that the plagiarism came merely from her lack of English skills, and therefore from having to rely on other sources. This edition includes both volumes. Volume I, The 'Infallibility' of Modern Science, discusses occult science, psychic phenomena, and the unknown forces of nature. Volume II, Theology, discusses the parallells between the Christian holy texts to religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Zoroastrianism. Extremely heavy with footnotes.
Modern Magic
Modern Magic is a book by Maximilian Schele de Vere, first published in 1873. In it, the author explores all manner of occult and paranormal subjects such as Witchcraft, Black And White Magic, Dreams, Visions, Ghosts, Divination, Possession, Magnetism, Miraculous Cures, and, Mysticism.
Blue and Red Light
Front cover image for Blue and red light, or, Light and its rays as medicine : showing that light is the original and sole source of life, as it is the source of all the physical and vital forces of nature, and that light is nature's own and only remedy for disease, and explaining how to apply the red and blue rays in curing the sick and feeble : together with a chapter on light in the vegetable kingdom
Blue and red light, or, Light and its rays as medicine : showing that light is the original and sole source of life, as it is the source of all the physical and vital forces of nature, and that light is nature's own and only remedy for disease, and explaining how to apply the red and blue rays in curing the sick and feeble : together with a chapter on light in the vegetable kingdom.
Lives of Alchemystical Philosophers
Lives of Alchemystical Philosophers is a book by British mystic Arthur Edward Waite, first published in 1888. The subtitle of which is: 'Based on Materials Collected in 1815 and Supplemented by Recent Researches; With a Philosophical Demonstration of the True Principles of the Magnum Opus, or Great Work of Alchemical Re-Construction, and Some Account of the Spiritual Chemistry. To which is added a Bibliography of Alchemy and Hermetic Philosophy'. The author, who wrote extensively on occult subjects, here gives accounts of the lives of famous and not-so-famous alchemy philosophers, such as Albertus Magnus, Thomas Aquinas, Roger Bacon, Arnold de Villanova, Nicholas Flamel, Basil Valentine, Paracelsus, John Dee, Eirenæus Philalethes, and many more.
The Book of Forbidden Knowledge
The Book of Forbidden Knowledge is a small pamphlet about certain aspects of the occult. Popular in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, these short manuscripts were published as a result of the interest in things such as spiritualism and mesmerism. This one is a mixture of folklore, superstitions, omens, and spells and includes information on subjects such as oracles, divination, mesmerism, spiritism, talismans, charms, incantations, and dreams.
The Book of Witches
The Book of Witches is a book by English writer Oliver Madox Hueffer, first published in 1909. Discover the captivating world of witches and witchcraft, and delve into the vast tapestry of their history, their origins, and their profound impact on mankind. While it is not an exhaustive scientific or historical treatise, the author skillfully selects the most essential elements from the wealth of material available, uncovering the mysteries of where witches came from, why they exist, and their significance. Chapters include: On A Possible Revival Of Witchcraft; A Sabbath-General; The Origins Of The Witch; The Half-Way Worlds; The Witch’s Attributes; Some Representative English Witches; The Witch Of Antiquity; The Witch In Greece And Rome; From Paganism To Christianity; The Witch-Bull And Its Effects; The Later Persecutions In England; Persecutions In Scotland; Other Persecutions; Philtres, Charms And Potions; The Witch In Fiction; and, Some Witches Of To-Day.
The Illustrated Key to the Tarot
The Illustrated Key to the Tarot: The Veil of Divination by L. W. De Laurence was first published in 1918. Fully illustrated, the book is a practical guide on the art of Tarot, offering guidance to both newcomers and seasoned practitioners in deciphering the enigmatic world of Tarot reading. Commencing with a historical overview, the book delves into Tarot's past and its interplay with occult facets of history. It also contains information about the Greater and Lesser Arcanas, as well as the Veil of Divinations, unraveling its concealed enigmas, symbolic representations, traditions, and methodologies. Notably, De Laurence was accused of plagiarism because of the similarities of The Illustrated Key to the Tarot, and the 1910 book 'The Pictorial Key to the Tarot' by British writer A. E. Waite.
The House of the Hidden Places
The House of the Hidden Places is a book by W. Marsham Adams, first published in 1895. During the 19th century, numerous attempts were made to unravel the mysterious internal structure of the Great Pyramid of Giza. However, amidst this speculation, Adams took a different approach by linking the blueprint of the pyramid to the recently translated Egyptian Book of the Dead. According to him, this ancient text portrayed a symbolic journey of the soul through the afterlife, serving as an allegory of initiation and a precursor to Masonic rituals. Surprisingly, his theory gained significant attention from scholars and esoteric researchers upon its initial publication. Nonetheless, the lack of scholarly support posed a challenge to its wider acceptance. Moreover, a considerable chronological gap of approximately a thousand years existed between the construction of the Great Pyramid around 2500 BCE and the earliest versions of the Book of the Dead, dating back to 1500 BCE. While Adams hinted at profound Masonic themes in both the Pyramid and the Book of the Dead, it is important to note that he himself was not affiliated with any Masonic group. Despite these complexities, Adams was ahead of his time in some aspects, particularly in his belief that the Egyptians originated from Africa, contrary to the prevailing belief that they were of Asian descent.
The Rosicrucian Christianity Lectures
The Rosicrucian Christianity Lectures by Christian occultist Max Heindel, are taken from a series of twenty lectures that were delivered in November 1908 in Ohio. The lectures here include: The Riddle Of Life And Death; Where Are The Dead?; Spiritual Sight And The Spiritual Worlds; Sleep, Dreams, Trance, Hypnotism, Mediumship, And Insanity; Death, And Life In Purgatory; Life And Activity In Heaven; Birth A Fourfold Event; The Science Of Nutrition, Health, And Protracted Youth; Astronomical Allegories Of The Bible; Astrology: Its Scope And Limitations; Spiritual Sight And Insight; Parsifal: Wagner's Famous Mystic Music Drama; The Angels As Factors In Evolution; Lucifer: Tempter Of Benefactor?; The Mystery Of Golgotha And The Cleansing Blood; The Star Of Bethlehem, A Mystic Fact; The Mystery Of The Holy Grail; The Lord's Prayer; The Coming Force--Vril Or What?; and, Fellowship And The Coming Race.
A Collection of Rare & Curious Tracts on Witchcraft & the Second Sight
"[...]detestable dealings of those witches, shee confessed, that upon the night of Allhallow Even last, shee was accompanied as well with the persons aforesaide, as also with a great many other witches, to the number of two hundreth, and that all they together went to sea, each one in a riddle or cive, and went into the same very substantially, with flaggons of wine, making merrie and drinking by the way in the same riddles or cives, to the Kirke of North Barrick in Lowthian, and that after they had landed, tooke hands on the lande and daunced this reill or short daunce, singing all with one voice, Commer goe ye before, commer goe ye, Gif ye will not goe before, commer let me. At which time shee confessed, that this Geillies Duncane did goe before[...]".
The Apocryphal New Testament
Newly translated by James Montague Rhodes, 1924, 1983,
Being the Apocryphal Gospels, Acts Epistles, and Apocalypses with other narratives and fragments
FRAGMENTS OF EARLY GOSPELS Gospel according to the Hebrews | Gospel of the Ebionites | Gospel according to the Egyptians | Gospel of Philip | Gospel or Traditions of Matthias | Gospel of Peter (ancient testimonies) | Gospel of Thomas (ancient testimonies) | Preaching of Peter.
LOST BOOKS Birth of Mary | Lesser Questions of Mary | Ascents of James and other lost books | Memoria ofthe Apostles | Lists of Apocryphal Books: Gelasian Decree; List ofthe Sixty Books; Stichometiy of Nicephorus; Synopsis of Pseudo-Athanasius.
FRAGMENTS OF GOSPELS A. Greek: Fayoum Gospel; Oxyrhjmchus Sayings of Jesus; Fragment of Gospel| B. Coptic: Strasburg papyrus| Pistis Sophia; Acts of Paul. AGRAPHA A. Additions: Freer-logion| B. quotations.
INFANCY GOSPELS Book of James | Gospel of Thomas; Appendixes to the Gospel of Thomas: I. From the Pistis Sophia; II. Miracles of the Dyer, Children in the Oven, Boy in the Tower | Liber de Infantia | Gospel of the Birth of Mary | Arabic and Armenian Gospel of the Infancy | History of Joseph the Carpenter| Coptic Lives of the Virgin|Discourse by Evodius; Discourse of Cyril of Jerusalem; Discourse of Demetrius of Antioch; Discourse of Cyril of Alexandria | A modem Infancy Gospel, other modern forgeries.
PASSION GOSPELS Gospel of Peter, Frag I| Gospel of Nicodemus Part I - Part II. Descent into Hell | Letter of Pilate to Claudius| Coptic Narratives of the Ministry and Passion: thirteen| Book of the Cock, An Ethiopic frag |Other Appendixes to the Acts of Pilate|Letter of Pilate to Tiberius|Report and Paradosis of Pilate |Letters of Pilate and Herod | Letter of Tiberius to Pilate | Death of Pilate| Vengeance or Avenging of the Saviour | Story of Joseph of Arimathaea | Gospel of Bartholomew | Book of the Resurrection of Christ by Bartholomew | Assumption of the Virgin: Coptic Texts. Narrative of Evodius; Discourse of Cyril of Jerusalem; Discourse of odosius| Greek Narrative of John the Evangelist, of John of ssalonica | Latin Narrative of Pseudo-Melito of Joseph of Arimathaea Syriac Narratives. 1. Six (Five) Fragmentary Narratives | History of the Virgin|Obsequies of the Virgin.
ACTS Acts of John| Banishment | Episode of Lycomedes| Temple of Artemis | Parricide| Partridge| Episode of Drusiana| Discourse of John concerning the Lord| Atticus and Eugenius|Aristodemus: the Poison-cup| Oxyrhynchus | Epistle of Titus| Death of John | Acts of Paul | Episode of Panchares| Story of ela| Episode of Hermocrates of Myra| Episode of Sidon| Episode of Tyre| Episode of Frontina| Correspondence with Corinth | Fight with Beasts at Ephesus| Prophecies of Cleobius and Myrte| Martyrdom |Unplaced Fragments| Acts of Peter |Coptic Fragment | Gardener's Daughter | Vercelli Acts | Martyrdom| Acts of Andrew | Miracles, by Gregory of Tours| Detached fragments of the Acts|Fragment of Andrew's discourse in prison| Martyrdom | Acts of Thomas i. Sale, and the Wedding Feast ii. Palace in Heaven iii. Serpent iv. Ass's Colt V. Dev and the Woman vi. Youth that murdered the Woman vii. Captain Siphor viii. Wild Asses ix. Mygdonia the wife of Charisius, Hymn of the Soul X. Baptism of Mygdonia xi. Tertia the wife of Misdaeus xii. luzanes the son of Misdaeus, Prayer of Thomas xiii. Baptism of luzanes and the rest (xiv). Martyrdom.
THE SECONDARY ACTS Acts of Philip i. Widow ii. At Athens iii. In Parihia iv. daughter of Nicocleides V. At Nicatera vi. Ireus and Arisiarchus vii. Nerkela and Ireus viii. Leopard and the Kid ix. Dragon slain XV. Martyrdom; Syriac Act | Acts of Andrew and Matthias (Matthew) | Acts of Peter and Andrew | Martyrdom of Matthew | Apostolic History of Pseudo-Abdias : I. Peter. II. Paul. III. Andrew, IV. James the Great V. John VI.(a) James the Less, (b) Simon and Jude VII. Matthew VIII. Bartholomew IX. Thomas X. Philip
NOTICES OF MINOR ACTS Acts of John by Prochorus: Syriac History of John|Acts of Barnabas, of James the Great, of Thomas|Acts and Passions of Peter and Paul|Acts of Thaddaeus, of disciples of the Apostles|On the Oriental Acts, Coptic, Arabic, and Ethiopic|Acts of Andrew and Paul|Frag story of Andrew |Slavonic Acts of Peter
EPISTLES Letters of Christ and Abgarus| Letter of Lentulus| Epistle to the Laodiceans|A frag of an Epistle| correspondence of Paul and Seneca| Epistle of the Apostles.
APOCALYPSES Apocalypse of Peter: A. Ancient Quotations B. Akhmim Fragment (or Frag II of the Gospel of Peter) C. Bodleian Leaf D. Ethiopic Text E. Appendix. Sibylline Oracles II| Apocalypse of Paul | Apocalypse of Thomas A. Text of Verona and Munich MSB.(Wilhelm) B. Text of Munich and Vienna MSB.(Bihlmeyer) | Apocalypse of the Virgin A. Greek B. Ethiopia |Revelation of Stephen
APPENDIXE B. I. Unknown Gospel II. Acts of Paul.
INDEXE B. Of Apocryphal Writings mentioned| Of Writers cited. I. Ancient and Mediaeval II. Modern of Proper Names. I. Persons II. Places, of subject.
The Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage
The Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage is a book by Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers, first published in 1900. This edition contains Books I, II, and III, encompassing a remarkable grimoire that was skillfully translated by Mathers from a 15th-century French manuscript. The text holds significant influence over contemporary ceremonial magic and has been recognized as a primary inspiration for Aleister Crowley. Abraham of Würzburg, a knowledgeable scholar of magic and a cabalist, recounts a quest for hidden teachings that led him to Egypt. It was there that he encountered the enigmatic magician Abramelin, who imparted a detailed system of magic to him. The procedure outlined in this grimoire entails extensive months of purification, followed by the invocation of both benevolent and malevolent spirits to achieve various earthly objectives. These include the acquisition of treasures and love, the ability to traverse the realms of air and water, and even the conjuring of ethereal armies. Moreover, it reveals secrets such as raising the deceased, altering one's appearance, attaining invisibility, and even conjuring storms. Central to this system are a set of extraordinary magic squares, sigils composed of mystical words that can often be read in multiple directions. However, these diagrams are believed to possess no inherent power unless employed within the appropriate ritual context by an initiated practitioner. Mathers diligently analyzed these words and provides extensive notes, offering potential derivations from languages such as Hebrew, Greek, and others.
The Prophecies
The Prophecies (Les Prophéties) is a collection of prophecies by French physician Nostradamus, which were first published in 1555. The book initially contained three centuries and 53 quatrains. This edition, which was originally published two years after the death of the author, includes ten centuries, as well as the almanacs (1555-1563, and 1564-1567). This last edition has two prefaces, the first is written in the form of a message to his son, and the second is addressed to Henry II. Nostradamus' prophecies have remained famous since his death, and with their often difficult to comprehend references, have been brought up when any major event happens, including September 11th, 2001. Scholars believe that the anagrams, and mythological and astrological references were put in there by the author to evade being persecuted for heresy. Characteristically vague, it is often argued that the prophecies could refer to anything if enough thought is put into it. However, there are some events that many supporters do agree were correctly foretold, including the Great Fire of London, the French Revolution, the rise of Napoleon and Adolf Hitler, both world wars, and the nuclear destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Beyond Babel: A Handbook for Biblical Hebrew and Related Languages
Beyond Babel provides a general introduction to and overview of the languages that are significant for the study of the Hebrew Bible and ancient Israel. Included are essays on biblical and inscriptional Hebrew, Akkadian, Northwest Semitic dialects (Ammonite, Edomite, and Moabite), Arabic, Aramaic, Egyptian, Hittite, Phoenician, postbiblical Hebrew, and Ugaritic.
Astrology and Marriage
Astrology and Marriage is a book by 19th-century astrologer Walter Gorn Old, also known as Sepharial. It deals with the subject of marriage from the point of view of the ancient science of the Chaldeans, and shows the secret of happiness or unhappiness in the marital state with regards to planetary influence. The author deals with the broad question of marriage, harmonising factors, signs of happiness, signs of discord, the misogynist, the domestic circle, multiple marriages, existing evils and the remedy, and gives illustrated cases of assorted marriages showing the close agreement of experience with horoscopical indications.
The Real History Of The Rosicrucians
The Real History Of The Rosicrucians is a book by British mystic Arthur Edward Waite, first published in 1887. Waite provides complete translations of all the texts associated with the Rosicrucians, including the Fama Fraternitatis, the Confessio Fraternitatis, and the Chemical Wedding of Christian Rosencreutz. The Chemical Wedding, the most extensive of the texts, is an alchemical allegory that reads like a fever dream. Although the authorship of these documents is uncertain, they are believed to have been written by Johann Valentin Andreas, a German theologian and writer. Waite also examines Rosicrucian literature from various centuries, including the works of authors like Michael Maier, Robert Fludd, Thomas Vaughan, and John Heydon. Heydon's work, Voyage to the Land of the Rosicrucians, which describes an expedition to a far-off land inhabited by Rosicrucians, is included in its entirety. Waite concludes his study with a look at a 19th-century organization that claimed to be affiliated with the Rosicrucians, a group that included Hargrave Jennings as a member. Jennings wrote a book titled The Rosicrucians, their Rites and Mysteries, which Waite critiques thoroughly, given its misleading title and focus on phallicism. Jennings' work contradicts the notion of the Rosicrucians being celibate, a fact that Waite highlights. Additionally, Waite debunks two 'historical' stories cited by Jennings, namely the subterranean sepulcher and the immortal Venetian, which have been used by other authors as factual accounts.
Pythagoras and the Delphic Mysteries
Pythagoras and the Delphic Mysteries is a book by Edouard Schuré, first published in 1906. It is a short biography of Pythagoras written from an esoteric perspective, specifically a Theosophist one. Whilst no actual texts of Pythagoras have survived, he had an impact on esoteric thinkers, and this book explores his place in the history of ideas, using esoteric interpretations. Chapters include: Greece in the Sixth Century; Years of Travel; The Temple of Delphi, The Science of Apollo, Theory of Divination, The Pythoness Theoclea; The Order and the Doctrine; and, Marriage of Pythagoras, Revolution at Croton, The Master's End, The School and its Destiny.
The Gnostics and Their Remains
This book draws from the likes of the Pistis Sophia to give an account of the early Gnostic believers. Part I covers the sources of Gnosticism and includes the origins of Gnosticism, the Book of Enoch, the Zendavesta, the Kabbalah and Buddhism. Part II covers the worship of Mithras and Serapis and includes monuments, ancient art, tomb treasures, talismans and the evil eye. Part III covers Abraxas and includes Agathodaemon Worship, the true Abraxas gems, the god Abraxas, legends and formulae. Part IV covers the figured monuments of Gnosticism and includes symbols, after death, punishments and magic squares. Part V covers the Templars, Rosicrucians and Freemasons and includes symbols, the mystery of Baphomet, Adam Weishaupt and Orphic mysteries.
The Magus, A Complete System of Occult Philosophy, Book 2
The Magus, or Celestial Intelligencer; being a Complete System of Occult Philosophy is a handbook of the occult and ceremonial magic. This is Book 2 of 2. Few people, even today, know that The Magus is a compilation, almost entirely consisting of selections from Cornelius Agrippa's Three Books of Occult Philosophy, the Fourth Book of Occult Philosophy attributed to Agrippa and the Robert Turner's 1655 translation of the Heptameron of Peter of Abano. Barrett made a few modifications and modernized the spelling and syntax of these selections. It deals with the natural magic of herbs and stones, magnetism, talismanic magic, alchemy, numerology, the elements, and biographies of famous adepts from history.
The Superstitions of Witchcraft
The Superstitions of Witchcraft is a book by English activist Howard Williams, first published in 1865. The book covers the extensive history of witchcraft, mostly covering Europe and Colonial America, but going back to pre-Biblical days to explore the roots of the subject. A scholarly book with extensive footnotes and lots of references, the book is a timeline of the practise of witchcraft, it's relationship with the church and with science, the superstition, hysteria and paranoia surrounding it particularly in medieval times, the characters associated with it, such as John Dee and Edward Kelly, and of course, the witch trials.
The Arcane Schools
Arcane Schools is a book by English Freemason, and occultist John Yarker, first published in 1909. Yarker's ambitious work aims to provide an extensive account of the history of Masonry and Masonic rites, using tradition and seniority as evidence for their legitimacy. He locates the origins of Masonry in an elusive race he terms the Aryans, who were skilled in the early human arts, such as stoneworking, metalworking, and agriculture. Yarker then outlines how this civilization gave rise to societies of specialized knowledge, including the mathematical and philosophical schools of ancient Greece, from which he traces the symbolism of modern Freemasonry. The Arcane Schools is an impressive synthesis of human history, drawing from various societies and periods to create a coherent narrative. Readers interested in the arcane, occult, or symbology will find Yarker's book captivating and informative.
The Kabbalah
The Kabbalah, or, The Religious Philosophy of the Hebrews is a book by French-Jewish philosopher Adolphe Franck, concerning Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism. First published in 1843 it is a scholarly study of the origin and evolution of the Kabbalah that traces the origins of the philosophical concepts of the Kabbalah to the ancient Zoroastrians. Franck goes into fascinating detail about the doctrine of the Kabbalah, as expressed in the Sepher Yetzirah and the Zohar. He carefully compares the philosophy of the Kabbalah with Greek philosophy, the Alexandrians, Philo, and the Gnostics, and although he finds many similarities with the ancient Zoroastrian belief, he concludes that none of them can claim to be the source of the Kabbalah. However, he also concludes that the doctrines were intially founded during the Babylonian era when Zoroastrianism was very active.
Aradia, Or, the Gospel of the Witches
Aradia, or the Gospel of the Witches is a book written by American folklorist and writer Charles Godfrey Leland in 1899. The book is believed to be a study of the religious beliefs and practices of a group of pagan witches in Tuscany, Italy. He claimed that the witches' practices had been passed down from an ancient goddess named Aradia, who had taught them magic and taught them to fight against evil. The book is structured as a series of verses and poems that describe the beliefs and practices of the witches, as well as their mythology and folklore. Most of the content is made up of spells, blessings, and rituals, but the text also contains stories and myths which suggest influences from both the ancient Roman religion and Roman Catholicism. Major characters in the myths include the Roman goddess Diana, a sun god called Lucifer, the Biblical Cain as a lunar figure, and the messianic Aradia. Although the book has been criticized for its accuracy and authenticity, it remains an important text in the history of modern witchcraft and paganism. Many contemporary witches and neo-pagans view it as a source of inspiration and as a testament to the enduring power of ancient goddess worship.
A Golden and Blessed Casket of Nature’s Marvels
A Golden and Blessed Casket of Nature’s Marvels is a text by sixteenth-century German alchemist Benedictus Figulus. The original title was Pandora magnalium naturalium aurea et benedicta, and the subtitle is 'Concerning The Blessed Mystery of the Philosopher’s Stone, Containing the Revelation of the Most Illuminated Egyptian King and Philosopher, Hermes Trismegistus, Translated by our German Hermes, the Noble Beloved Monarch and Philosopher Trismegistus, A. Ph. Theophrastus Paracelsica, With an Excellent Explanation by the Noble and Learned Philosopher, Alexander von Suchten, M.D.; Together with Certain hitherto Unpublished Treatises, By this Author, And Also Other Corollaries of the Same Matter, As Specified in the Preface. Now Published for the Use and benefit of all Sons of the Doctrine of Hermes, By Benedictus Figulus, of Utenhofen'.
The Turba Philosophorum
The Turba Philosophorum, also known as the Assembly of the Philosophers, is one of the oldest European alchemy texts. It is considered to have been written c. 900 A.D. Nine philosophers take part in a discussion, being, once the text has been transcribed back to the original Arabic, Anaximander, Anximenes, Anaxagoras, Empedocles, Archelaus, Leucippus, Ecphantus, Pythagoras and Xenophanes. The statements of the philosophers, whilst usually different from the known beliefs of the pre-Socratics, are usually recognisable as outgrowths of Greek philosophy. They discuss matter, how it acts, and relate this to cosmology, with three theses presented by Xenophanes in his closing speech, being, 1) The creator of the World is Allah, the God of Islam; 2) The world is of a uniform nature; 3) All creatures of the upper as well as of the lower world are composed of all four elements.
The Gardnerian Book of Shadows
In one sense, this is the central sacred text of the Wicca religion, however, it is important to point out that there is no official Book of Shadows. Typically each coven has a hand-written copy of a Book of Shadows, sometimes in cypher or code, which reflects its own practices and knowledge. This particular text is derived from a file posted on the Internet in the early 90s, and quotes previously published material which was known to be in use by Gardner and his group. The Book of Shadows was attributed by Gardner to an ancient, clandestine witch cult, which he claimed to have been initiated into. However, modern researchers have concluded that it was composed by Gardner. The text shows influences from English and Celtic Folk-lore, the Enochian system of John Dee, Thelema, the Golden Dawn, Stregaria, Tantric Yoga, the KJV Bible and even Kipling. This version organizes the material in chronological order and has estimated dates for each section, ranging from 1949 to 1961.
Practical Occultism
Practical Occultism: A survey of the whole field of mediumship through the trance mediumship of J. J. Morse, was first published in 1888. The book consists of seven lectures: Lecture I. The trance as the doorway to the occult. Its magnetic, natural, and spiritual forms of induction; Lecture II. Mediumship: its physical, mental, and spiritual conditions; Lecture III. Mediumship (continued): its foundation, development, dangers, and advantages; Lecture IV. Magic, sorcery, and witchcraft; Lecture V. The natural, spiritual, and celestial planes of the second state; Lecture VI. The soul world; its hells, heavens, and evolutions; and, Lecture VII. Life, development, and death in spiritland.
The History of Magic
The History of Magic, Including a Clear and Precise Exposition of its Procedure, its Rites and its Mysteries is a book by French esotericist Éliphas Lévi, first published in 1860. In this book, Lévi explores the history of magic, mysticism, and the occult from ancient times to his contemporary era. He discusses various aspects of magical practices, symbolism, and the development of occult traditions. Subjects include historical magic in religion, hermetic magic, the practise of magic in India and ancient Greece, the Qabalah, secret societies and their initiations, the Illuminati, the French revolution, and much more. There are also sections on famous magicians and alchemists, and chapters on those accused of using magic. The History of Magic provides insights into the evolution of magical thought and practices, making it an important work in the field of Western esotericism.
Egyptian Magic
Chapters include: Antiquity of Magical Practices in Egypt; Magical Stones or Amulets; Magical Figures; Magical Pictures and Formulæ, Spells, Etc.; Magical Names; Magical Ceremonies; and, Demoniacal Possession, Dreams, Ghosts, Lucky and Unlucky Days, Horoscopes, Prognostications, Transformations, and the Worship of Animals.
Practical Psychomancy and Crystal Gazing
Chapters include: Lesson 1. The Nature Of Psychomancy, Lesson 2. How To Develop Yourself, Lesson 3. Simple Psychomancy, Lesson 4. The Astral Tube, Lesson 5. Psychometry, Lesson 6. Crystal Gazing, Lesson 7. Astral Projection, Lesson 8. Space Psychomancy, Lesson 9. Past Time Psychomancy, Lesson 10. Future Time Psychomancy, and, Lesson 11. Dream Psychomancy.
The Phantom World
The Phantom World; or, The Philosophy of Spirits, Apparitions, etc is a book by Augustin Calmet, a French Benedictine monk. First published in 1746, the book contains extensive studies of apparitions of angels, demons, and spirits, Magic, sorcery, witchcraft, and instances of vampires, and individuals returning from the grave. Chapters include Magic of the Egyptians and Chaldeans; The Appearance of Good Angels proved by the Books of the New Testament; Of the Pagan Oracles; Examples which prove the Reality of Magic; Spirits that keep Watch over Treasure; On Sorcerers and Sorceresses, or Witches; Return and Apparitions of Souls after the Death of the Body, proved from Scripture; Opinions of the Jews, Greeks, and Latins, concerning the Dead who are left unburied; Effects of Magic according to the Poets, and many more.
Morals and Dogma
Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry is a book by American author, and sovereign grand commander of the Scottish Rite, Albert Pike. It was first published in 1871 by the Supreme Council, Thirty Third Degree, of the Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction of the United States. It is a collection of lectures on the esoteric roots of Freemasonry, including information on the Kabalah and the Mystery religions of the past. One of the influences for the book was Éliphas Lévi, who had claimed in Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie, that Freemasonic rituals had ancient pagan roots. At the beginning of Morals and Dogma, Pike tells the reader that half of the text is copied from other works. Regardless of this, it remains an important book about the philosophy of the Freemasons.
Viridarium Umbris: The Pleasure Garden of Shadow
An extensive grimorium of Wortcunning, or herb-magic, the Pleasure-Garden treats of the secret knowledge of trees and herbs as delivered by the Fallen Angels unto mankind. The book’s principal concerns are the sorcery and gnosis of the Greenwood, as arising from the varied luminaries of the Eternal Gardens of the Arte Magical. As a grimoire of Spiritual Botany, the Book is a Hortus Conclusus of text and image intended for the indwelling of these plant-spirits. The work encompasses magical practices, formulae, and mystical exegesis, all treating the respective arcana of Nature-Spirits and the powers of individual plants. Magical foci are on devotion, purity, humility, silence, solitude, and the hieros-gamos of wortcunner and plant as a tutelary relationship, in conjunction with the Mysteries of Cain, first tiller of the soil. The whole is intended as a textual reification of occult herbalism within the context of the Sabbatic Craft Tradition.
The Secret Teachings of All Ages
The Secret Teachings of All Ages by Canadian mystic and astrologer Manly P. Hall, was first published in 1928. The book is Hall's magnum opus, and is a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of the Esoteric, including the Qabalah, Tarot, Ceremonial Magic, Mystery Religions, Rosicrucianism, Neo-Platonic Philosophy, and Freemasonry - an encyclopedia of ancient mythology, ritual, symbolism, and the arcane mysteries of the ages with over 200 illustrations. The publishing of the book instantly gave Hall iconic status within the metaphysical movement. It ties together the secret teachings that have existed for centuries, including Druidic, Mithraic, Christian, Gnostic, Odinic, Gothic, Eleusinian, Orphic, Bacchic, Dionysian, Platonic, Atlantean, Cabric, Hermetic, Zodiacal, Astrological, Chaldean, Delphic, Orphic, and more. It definitely contains some questionable parts, like for example the bits on Islam, but the information on other subjects far outweigh these. Reading this in its entirety will put you in good stead to dive further into these often complex subjects.
The Comte De Saint Germain
The Comte De Saint Germain is a book by prominent Theosophist Isabel Cooper-Oakley, first published in 1912. The subject of the book, the Count St. Germain, was a man of mystery - an 18th century European aristocrat of unknown origin, he had no visible means of support, but no lack of resources, and moved in high social circles. He served as a backchannel diplomat between England and France, and may have played some role in Freemasonry. He moved in the same circles as Marie Antoinette, Catherine the Great, Voltaire, Rousseau, Mesmer, and Casanova. He dabbled in materials and textile technology as well as alchemy, as did many intellectuals of the time. Less well understood are some of the other stories that have been made about the elusive Count: he always appeared about forty years old, popped up from time to time after his official death (on February 27th, 1784), made spot-on, unambiguous prophecies, could transmute matter, and spontaneously teleported to distant locations. This has made him a subject of interest for students of the esoteric. The Theosophists, (of which Cooper-Oakley was a founding member), considered St. Germain to be one of the hidden immortals who manipulate history.
An Introduction to Astrology
An Introduction to Astrology by William Lilly, was first published in 1647, under the title Christian Astrology. One of the best known post-classical works on Astrology, this present edition, heavily edited, was released under the current title in 1852. Horary Astrology, the subject of this book, interprets planetary positions to answer a wide range of questions, from lost dogs and stolen fish, to the death of kings. While there is a basic repertoire of interpretations, the horoscope is used as a jumping off point for the astrologer's intuition. And Lilly apparently had spectacularly good intuition. His famous prediction of the London fire of 1666 was so accurate that he was suspected of starting it, a charge he was later acquitted of. Lilly also used Astrology in medical practice and this book discusses the use of horoscopes in diagnosing diseases, determining whether a patient will die or get better, and so on.
