The Doctrine & Ritual of Transcendental Magic: A Historical Guide to Occult Practice

By Arthur Edward Waite and Éliphas Lévi

Book Overview

One of the most influential magical treatises ever written, The Doctrine & Ritual of Transcendental Magic is Eliphas L vi's landmark work and a foundational text in Western occultism.

This is a deeply philosophical guide to the spiritual science of transformation. Drawing upon Kabbalah, Hermeticism, alchemy, and Christian mysticism, The Doctrine & Ritual of Transcendental Magic offers a bold synthesis of ancient wisdom and nineteenth-century spiritual inquiry. Divided into two parts, the 'Doctrine' sets forth the theoretical underpinnings of magic, and the 'Ritual' outlines its ceremonial practices.

Eliphas L vi (1810-1875) helped shape the occult revival and his vision of the magician as a seeker of divine truth, balancing science and faith, inspired generations of mystics and philosophers.

First published in 1896, The Doctrine & Ritual of Transcendental Magic endures as an essential volume for students of the esoteric, and a profound meditation on the forces that govern the Universe.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1528774515
• ISBN13: 9781528774512
• Release Date: August 2025
• Publisher: Wyrd Books
• Length: 430 Pages
• Weight: 1.43 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 5.5" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

One of Occultism's powerful treatise of Theory and Practice

This splendid book, written by one of the greatest influences on western occultism, is highly recommended for the sincere and serious students and initiates of the Western Occult Tradition. The book is broken down into two books of 22 chapters, 22 to signify the 22 Greater Arcanum of the Tarot and Kabballah. Yet, sadly, as most of the modern great occult minds are confused with the new age isms and skisms, the secret keys of this Kabbalistic, Gnostic treatise is either lost or forgotten. There is another book, that has been recently translated from its original language that not only unveils the Kabbalistic synthesis within all ancient religion (as Levi beautifully expounds upon) but also this book reveals the ancient and secret keys that are the "foundation" of all the Occult traditions. This book was written by the Gnostic Master Samael Aun Weor. The book is called "The Initiatic Path in the Arcana of Tarot and Kabalah". It is difficult to find, yet one can contact a Gnostic Institute nearest you (gnosticinstitute.com).

A must read for people interested in knowing themselves...

This book, although very complete and full of useful concepts and information, is not for everyone. It contents very powerful concepts and rituals that might confuse and disorient the not ocult-savvy reader. If you are an occasional and not a serious reader of the subject, choose a more simple book. If misunderstood, the book can cause damage to self and others, or even dementia, depending on the susceptibility of the reader. If you think you are prepared, you will find this book most useful and very clarifying. And if all of the other basic books on Ocultism and Magic start to bore you up, this book will most certainly take you to the next level.

High end teachings for the low end magician

Works of this nature should be cherished by all humanity