Theurgy, or the Hermetic Practice: A Treatise on Spiritual Alchemy

By E.J. Langford Garstin

Theurgy means "the science or art of divine works." In alchemy, this process is called the "Great Work," which is the purification and exaltation of our "lower" nature by the proper application of esoteric principles, so that it may become united with its higher counterparts, whereby we may attain spiritual, and ultimately divine, consciousness.

Drawing on the teachings of the Egyptian, Greek, and Hebrew mystery schools and quoting extensively from important alchemical writers, Garstin details this process of purification. Students who are curious about alchemy but daunted by the body of its literature and its strange allegories will find this book to be an excellent introduction.

Garstin discusses source alchemical works and clearly explains what their esoteric symbolism means. With the information in this book, students of alchemy can then proceed to make a more informed exploration of the alchemical works and other writings of the Western Mystery Tradition.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0892540915
• ISBN13: 9780892540914
• Release Date: June 2004
• Publisher: Nicolas-Hays
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 5.4" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Spiritual Alchemy

As per the title, this is a book on Spiritual Alchemy, that is the transmutation of ones self to be a channel for divinity. He quotes abundantly from the old manuscripts of alchemy especially from Thomas Vaughan a known Rosicrucain apologist. I personally found the text at times to try my concentration as he jumped from quote to quote regarding recondite alchemical terminology. Overall a good book that would take a few readings to get the full import of his thesis.

Essential reading for Rosicrucian students and Esoteric Freemasons.

The central theme of this book is purification. In this book, the student of esoteric practice is the main subject of the Alchemical, purifying process. All the most basic Alchemical symbolism of the Western Mystery Tradition and how it relates to Theurgic practice is explained in detail. This is essential reading before you tackle the "Secret Fire" which is also by Garstin and also very good read. This book (Theurgy, or the Hermetic Practice) explains, using Alchemical symbolism, the purification process which is needed before you raise the serpent power within yourself to it's bridal chamber. It is highly recommended.