The Mystery Traditions : Secret Symbols and Sacred Art Previously Entitled Art and Symbols of the Occult

A beautifully illustrated lexicon of the major symbology of the great esoteric traditions. Symbol, in the esoteric sense, is not to be confused with allegory; symbolic images are the alphabet of the "theory of correspondences" that underlies all the Mystery traditions of the West. This theory recognises the interdependent relationship of all things and provides, for example, the basis of the belief that the position of the stars in the heavens will influence our thought, emotion and perception. It, also, explains how the alchemist's work with base metals will result in a transformation of his own consciousness. In "The Mystery Traditions", James Wasserman offers a full-colour lexicon of occult imagery drawn from the Kabbalah and tarot as well as the traditions of magic, alchemy and astrology, accompanied by commentary on each image's significance and the wisdom teachings from which it derives. In this new edition, he, also, looks at the pivotal role played by secret societies in safeguarding and transmitting these teachings and presents rarely seen artefacts of these societies. Among the splendid offerings in this collection are all 22 paintings of the mediaeval, alchemical masterpiece, Splendor Solis, in full colour and works by significant artists and esoteric thinkers such as Leonardo da Vinci, Robert Fludd, Austin Osman Spare, Harry Smith, Manly P Hall and Raymond Lull. This book provides an excellent introduction to the timeless and hidden dimensions of occult practice. An extensive bibliography of classical occult works also complements this unique collection. This is a revised and expanded edition of "Art and Symbols of the Occult".