The Zelator: A Modern Initiate Explores the Ancient Mysteries [Paperback]

Mark Hedsel (Author), David Ovason (Editor)

Product Details

• Paperback: 512 pages
• Publisher: Weiser Books (February 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1578631696
• ISBN-13: 978-1578631698
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #287,295 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful, September 30, 2002

By 

"johnno30" (Sydney Australia) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Zelator: A Modern Initiate Explores the Ancient Mysteries (Paperback)

An amazing book giving a few, no make that many secrets away of the ancient mystery schools which have survived to this day. Mainly with a Gurdjieff flavour with a few astrological, Rosicrucian and ancient history references.

This is a slow burning type of book where the student has to search for the meaning behind Hedsel's veiled secrets. True Esotericism at its best to guide the seeker onward. Much like Fulcanelli, Hedsel and Ovason's secrets are only really available to those with eyes to see.

The Bibliographic notes meticulously compiled by David Ovason run into 103 (Yes that's 103) pages and are worth the price of the book alone. They act as a signpost for the initiate who is seeking further answers pointing to a mixture of some rather obscure and common texts.

There is a website dedicated to the book which I have published on the web. Just type "Hedsel" and "Zelator" on Google to find it.

Highly recommended.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Glimpse through the Veil, November 13, 2001

By 

Tommy (Scotland) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Zelator: A Modern Initiate Explores the Ancient Mysteries (Paperback)

Without this book, I would still be asleep.
"The Zelator" will prove to be an insightful and inspiring read for all newcomers to Hermetic philosophy, and the occult in general.
I agree that some of the information contained is not wholly accurate, but the serious student will find that further exploration of the various concepts contained will clarify any errors or misunderstandings.
Ovason's footnotes, although extensive and fairly well informed, do tend to dwell on unimportant aspects of the subjects covered by Hedsel. The variety of arcane subjects dealt with and explained by Hedsel will provide a basic grounding in hermetic studies for any new student.
There are also moments when Hedsel explains events in his life in relation to various alchemical operations. At times these insights into his personal life are touching and often moving.
This book sets out to tell the story of one man's personal journey through initiation, it does not claim to be an instruction manual for magical works. It explores areas of occult study which would not be discussed so openly elsewhere and, for this alone, it deserves the respect of the reader.
An excellent book.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Fascinating Account of the Seeker, January 20, 2008

By 

Zadius Sky (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Zelator: A Modern Initiate Explores the Ancient Mysteries (Paperback)

Mark Hedsel has written an intriguing account of his journey in his "Zelator." This remarkable book holds full of gems and insights as one will discover new knowledge that lies within.

This book will surely takes the reader to the experience the mysterious knowledge as well the esoteric path. In this work, one can see the keys to unlock the ancient mysteries and knowledge.

With little over eight chapters and roughly 460 pages as well the included fascinating pictures, this book is tough to read but well worth the read.

For any devoted esoteric seekers of the truth and knowledge, I would highly recommend this book.