Customer Reviews

Magic and the Western Mind: Ancient Knowledge and the Transformation of Consciousness (Llewellyn's Western Magick Historical Series)

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If you would understand the history of true magic, this volume is an excellent overview. When I wrote my own thesis in metaphysics this book was my primary reference, and inspiration. There is nothing of the cheap and sensational here. On the contrary, Knight focuses on the central fact that any magic worthy of the name is a sacred pursuit and draws its effectiveness from the realm of the Divine itself. Do you know the difference between theurgy and mere thaumaturgy? The difference is of profound importance. Knight was one of the first to point out the roots of western magic in the ancient mystery religions and their connection with the hermetic tradition. Then he went on to cover everything from Ficino's theory of natural magic, to Pico's interpretations of the Qabalah and spiritual magic, to the hermetic rediscoveries of Fludd and Dee. He even reveals that Bacon, Keplar, and Newton were primarily Theurgists who would have reguarded their findings in natural philosophy ("science") to be among their lesser pursuits and accomplishments. You will even find hints of the "Invisible College" here....

I have all of Gareth Knight's book. I find his style simple and easy to follow, and especially good for showing to new students. If you want to brush away the cobwebs of sensationalist books on The Western Mystery Tradition, you could do no better than Gareth Knights books. I've used this person as a source since the 60's and find he is like a good wine...improving with age.