There are countless books on occult philosophy, but in this note, we will briefly explore three notable works in this genre. Firstly, "The Secret Teachings of All Ages" by Manly P. Hall is a comprehensive and encyclopedic account of esoteric teachings and secret societies throughout history. This book delves into various topics such as Freemasonry, Hermeticism, and the symbolism found in different cultures and religions. Hall's meticulous research and profound insights make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the occult. Another influential work is "The Kybalion: Hermetic Philosophy" by Three Initiates.
Another influential work is "The Kybalion: Hermetic Philosophy" by Three Initiates. This book is a modern interpretation of ancient Hermetic principles, exploring the concepts of mentalism, correspondence, vibration, and polarity. It offers practical wisdom for personal transformation and understanding the interconnected nature of the universe.
Three Books of Occult Philosophy (Hardcover)
One of the most important texts in the Western magical tradition for nearly 500 years, Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa’s 1533 work Three Books of Occult Philosophy collates a multitude of sources from the Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance periods and organizes them into a coherent explanation of the magical world. Divided into three parts--the natural world, the celestial world, and the divine world--the book systematically explains the philosophy, logic, and methods of magic and astrology and how they work.
The basis for 19th-century magical orders such as the Golden Dawn and a primary source for countless books on magical uses of stones, herbs, incense, and astrology, Agrippa’s many lists and diagrams have proven invaluable to magicians since the 16th century. Yet, until now, all English editions of Agrippa’s Three Books were based on the same flawed 1651 translation from the mysterious “J.F.”
In this new translation from the original 1533 Latin edition, Eric Purdue corrects the many mistranslations, copyist mistakes, and errors introduced from other editions as well as restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations. Purdue notates every correction and offers commentary, drawing on major developments in the research of older magical and astrological texts. He also presents a nearly complete bibliography of Agrippa’s primary sources, revealing Agrippa as a mainstream scholar of his day.
Presenting the first new English translation of Three Books of Occult Philosophy in more than 350 years, this three-volume hardcover boxed set repairs the gaps in knowledge pervasive in the original translation and restores the magical spirit of Agrippa’s masterpiece, allowing us to hear Agrippa speak again.
About the Author
Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa von Nettesheim (1486-1535) was a German polymath, physician, legal scholar, soldier, theologian, and occult writer. Entering the University of Cologne at the age of 13, he graduated with a Master of Arts at 16 and went on to study with abbot Johannes Trithemius, famous as the teacher of Paracelsus. Acclaimed for his lectures on Reuchlin and the Corpus Hermeticum at universities across Europe, Agrippa acted as archivist for the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. Defying accusations of heresy and scrutiny by the Inquisition of Cologne, he published the final version of Three Books of Occult Philosophy two years before his death. Agrippa is considered one of the most influential occultists of the early modern period.
Eric Purdue has studied metaphysics and the occult and has practiced magic and astrology for more than thirty years, with a particular focus on practical folk and astrological magic. Through his lectures and writings on traditional astrology and talismanic magic, he has been a notable voice on the subjects of medieval astrology, traditional magical systems, and the legacy of Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa. His new translation of Three Books of Occult Philosophy was more than 10 years in the making.
Praise For…
“Eric Purdue’s fine new translation of H. C. Agrippa’s Three Books of Occult Philosophy is a landmark edition of this essential work. Unquestionably the most comprehensive work of the European esoteric sciences, this timely new publication of this encyclopedic masterwork is accompanied by illustrations restored from the original as well as the translator’s erudite notes, sources, and references. Agrippa’s works are fundamental to the study of all branches and aspects of the tradition, and no esoteric book collection should be without this outstanding edition.”
— Nigel Pennick, founder of the Institute of Geomantic Research and the Library of the European Tradit
“Anyone interested in the roots and branches of modern magic has repeatedly heard of the works of Agrippa. Here in these beautiful volumes we have not only an aesthetically pleasing edition, but one that has paid close attention to the technical and linguistic details as never before. They will make for better historians and practical practitioners for those who wish to undertake experiments in the bold art of magic.”
— Stephen E. Flowers, author of The Fraternitas Saturni
“Inner Traditions has done justice to this text. It is published in a three volume slipcase edition, which, though expensive, is handsomely executed. I believe that anyone with a deep interest in the Western occult tradition will want to own it.”
— Richard Smoley, Quest
- Body, Mind & Spirit / Hermetism & Rosicrucianism
- Social Science / Freemasonry & Secret Societies
- Self-help / Personal Growth / Success
- Kobo eBook (November 22nd, 2021): $99.00
- Paperback (December 1st, 2007): $45.80
- Hardcover (December 1st, 2007): $60.02
- Hardcover (June 23rd, 2019): $45.40
- Paperback (June 23rd, 2019): $21.14
- Paperback (March 14th, 2011): $41.55
Browse Related Books
The Kybalion's concise and elegant style makes it accessible to readers of different backgrounds and levels of familiarity with occult philosophy. Lastly, "The Book of the Law" by Aleister Crowley is a central text in Thelema, a mystical and philosophical system founded by Crowley. This work claims to be a transmission of divine wisdom presented by an otherworldly entity known as Aiwass. The Book of the Law contains enigmatic verses that encourage individuals to explore their true will and liberate themselves from societal constraints. It has exerted a significant influence on occultists and spiritual seekers, provoking both fascination and controversy. These three books, among many others, demonstrate the rich and diverse nature of occult philosophy. They provide valuable insights into the hidden aspects of reality, offering seekers paths for self-discovery and spiritual growth. Regardless of one's personal beliefs, these works invite readers to question conventional wisdom and explore the mysteries of existence..
Reviews for "Unlocking the Tarot: Three Books on Occult Philosophy and Divination"
- Jessica - 1 star
I found "Three Books on Occult Philosophy" to be extremely confusing and uninteresting. The author's writing style was convoluted and difficult to follow, making it nearly impossible for me to grasp any of the concepts he was trying to convey. Additionally, the content of the book was not engaging at all. I expected to be captivated by the subject matter, but instead, I was left feeling bored and frustrated. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking to explore occult philosophy.
- Mike - 2 stars
"Three Books on Occult Philosophy" fell short of my expectations. The ideas presented in the book were interesting, but the execution was lacking. The author seemed to jump from one topic to another without providing sufficient explanation or context, making it difficult for me to fully understand and appreciate the concepts. Furthermore, the book was filled with unnecessary jargon that only added to the confusion. While there may be some value in this book for those already well-versed in occult philosophy, I would not recommend it to beginners or casual readers.