Recommended Reading

These books are important reading for everyone interested in the mystical traditions of the west. Many of them are required reading for the courses offered through Heart of the Rose Mystery School. If you would like to purchase one or more of these books, please use the Amazon.com link on this page. When you do so, the Sanctuary of Enlightened Life receives a referral fee from Amazon.com that supports this web site and other Sanctuary programs. Thanks.

Living Light: The 21-Day Alchemical Regeneration Plan

Living Light: The 21-Day Alchemical Regeneration Plan By Chavah Aima

Enlightened Life Publishing, 2007

Create a healthier, slimmer, more youthful body in 21 days with the amazing Living Light plan that blends the high-intensity nutrition and healing powers of a raw food diet with the ancient wisdom of Alchemy. Everything you need to heal and regenerate your body, mind, and soul is explained, including: buying and preparing raw foods, growing sprouts and grasses, internal cleansing, weekly menu plans, daily schedules, juice fasting, solar healing, alchemical meditation and yoga, and over 100 delicious raw and living food recipes.

$14.95

True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order

The True and Invisible Rosicrucian Order By Paul Foster Case

Samuel Weiser, 1987.

This inspiring book is a true compendium of the esoteric philosophy and teachings of one of the most important contributors to the modern western esoteric tradition. It is an invaluable aid to the serious aspirant on the path of realization, as it continues to reveal deep meaning even after many readings.


Mystical Qabalah

The Mystical Qabalah by Dion Fortune

Samuel Weiser, York Beach, Maine, 1997.

This is a classic work by one of the most respected female occultists of modern times. Using discrimination, the astute aspirant will derive an endless understanding about the Tree of Life and its importance in spiritual development.


Practical Guide to Qabalistic Symbolism

A Practical Guide to Qabalistic Symbolism, Volumes I & II By Gareth Knight   Samuel Weiser, 1978

This is an incredible compilation of information and traditional teachings on the Tree of Life that is a complete course in itself. The discerning student will reap a tremendous wealth of knowledge and growth from this outstanding work.


Tree of Life, a Study in Magic

The Tree of Life, A Study in Magic By Israel Regardie

Samuel Weiser, 1972

Here is a classic work by one of the most accomplished occultists of the twentieth century. This book is especially recommended for its highly inspirational tone and focus on magic as the act of divine union. Though Dr. Regardie's traditional occult writing style may be a bit of a challenge for some, this work remains a beautiful contribution to understanding the spiritual purpose of the Great Work.


The Tarot: A Key to the Wisdom of the...

The Tarot, A Key to the Wisdom of the Ages By Paul Foster Case

First Revised Edition, Builders of the Adytum, Los Angeles, 1990. 

This book provides a good overview of the meanings of the twenty-two major arcana of the Sacred Tarot. It is a marvelous discourse on the purpose and meanings of Tarot symbolism, and its connection to Qabalah, Alchemy, Astrology, and all esoteric sciences.


The Golden Dawn: A Complete Course in...

The Golden Dawn, 6th Edition As revealed by Israel Regardie

Llewellyn Publications, 1989.

The most complete collection of the lectures, teachings, symbols, and rituals of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. Every student of esoteric science should have a copy of this book. Every student who diligently studies and practices what is contained therein will certainly advance into the greater Light.


An Introduction To Ritual Magic

An Introduction to Ritual Magic By Dion Fortune and Gareth Knight

Thoth Publications, United Kingdom, 1997.

A collection of Dion Fortune's writings on ritual theory and practice, each followed by a modern version of the teaching by Gareth Knight. A thorough and practical manual, it aids greatly in the student's understanding of the true meaning and purpose of ritual in the western tradition.


The Art of True Healing: The Unlimited...

The Art of True Healing, The Unlimited Power of Prayer and Visualization By Israel Regardie, edited by Marc Allen, New World Library, Novato, CA, 1997.

This small book is an edited version of the original 1932 book that provides an in-depth explanation of the Middle Pillar Exercise and circulation of the Body of Light. Focused on healing oneself and others through these powerful techniques, it also covers many other magical practices that are accomplished through this traditional western practice.


Enochian Magic for Beginners: The...

Enochian Magic for Beginners, The Original System of Angel Magic By Donald Tyson

Llewellyn Publications, St. Paul, MN, 1997.

This book is a good resource that gives a complete history of Dr. John Dee and includes many transcripts of his work with the Enochian Angels. Although we do not support his speculations about Apocalyptic intent, he nevertheless supplies a very thorough and much needed restoration of the incredible teachings of the Angels.


The Tower of Alchemy: An Advanced Guide...

The Tower of Alchemy, An Advanced Guide to the Great Work By David Goddard  Samuel Weiser, York Beach, Maine, 1999.

This is a respectable and revealing dissertation on the Great Work by a true initiate. Goddard brings great insight and understanding to bear upon the often obscure and veiled writings of the ancient alchemists. Especially impressive is his ability to correlate these ancient western teachings with the equally venerable traditions of Tibetan Buddhism.


The Kybalion: A Study of the Hermetic...

The Kybalion, A Study of the Hermetic Philosophy of Ancient Egypt and Greece By Three Initiates. Yogi Publication Society, Chicago, 1940.

This older discourse is a valuable key to the ancient esoteric mysteries. It uses the seven Hermetic principles, or universal laws, as the basis for an inspiring discussion of the science of spiritual perfection. Although the Three Initiates remain a mystery, modern initiates suspect Paul Foster Case was one of them.


The Masters and the Path

The Masters and the Path By C.W. Leadbeater

Third Edition, Theosophical Publishing House, Madras, India, 1992.

Based on talks given to members of the Theosophical Society by one of their most renowned leaders, this is a revealing account of his experiences and teachings with the beloved Ascended Masters. The book includes a thorough listing of the many levels of initiation that lead to ascension. It is a highly inspirational guide into the world of the Brotherhood of Light.


The Seventh Ray: Revealer of the Age

The Seventh Ray: Revealer of the New Age By Alice Bailey and the Tibetan Master Djwhal Khul. Lucis Publishing Co., New York, 1995.

 This is a comprehensive compilation of the Master D.K.'s teachings on the Seventh Ray. As we are now said to be living in the time of the dominance of the Seventh Ray, this is an important and reliable source of information for all conscious workers.


The Nag Hammadi Library in English

The Nag Hammadi Library in English, General Editor James M. Robinson  Third Revised Edition, Harper Collins Publishers, San Francisco, CA, 1990.

This is a collection of ancient Coptic Gnostic scriptures that were found in Nag Hammadi, Egypt in 1945. Released to the public in 1977 over the strident objections of the dogmatic Christian churches, it contains the Gospels of Thomas, Philip, James, John, and Mary Magdalene. These sacred gospels reveal the truth of the life and teachings of the Master Yeheshua, including Mary Magdalene's status as his consort, senior disciple, and successor to his initiatory lineage. This is the Bible for the Golden Age!


Book of Tokens-Tarot Meditations

The Book of Tokens, Tarot Meditations By Paul Foster Case

Builders of the Adytum, Los Angeles, 1989.

These beautiful passages reveal the deep esoteric meanings of the 22 major arcana of the Sacred Tarot. Obviously inspired by the Highest Spirit of Light, and credited to his beloved Master by the author, these contemplations provide a rare opportunity to experience profound transformation.


Women of the Golden Dawn : Rebels and...

Women of the Golden Dawn: Rebels and Priestesses. By Mary K. Greer Inner Traditions Int. Ltd., 1996. This is an excellent biography of four women who were involved in the founding of the Golden Dawn. The historical material is very well documented, and Ms. Greer presents it in lively and entertaining style. The book serves as an excellent introduction to the purposes and practices of the original Golden Dawn, and the people involved in its creation and demise. Inspirational reading for women and for men!


The Golden Dawn Scrapbook : The Rise and...

The Golden Dawn Scrapbook. By R.A. Gilbert. Red Wheel/Weiser, 1998. This is a good introduction to the progression of events and characters in the early days of the Golden Dawn. The author is not a magician or even an aspirant to the mysteries, therefore his presentation may sometimes miss key understandings that more magically inclined authors present. Still, this is a good scholastic presentation of the facts and history of the order.


When Daylight Comes: A Biography of...

When Daylight Comes: A Biography of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky. By Howard Murphet. Publisher unknown, 1975. This is a fascinating account of the life of Madame Blavatsky. From her childhood experiences with the ascended Master El Morya to her later struggles with the Theosophical Society, a portrait emerges of a woman of strong convictions driven by spiritual will. This may be the best book ever written about this unusual and gifted Adept.


The History of Magic : Including a Clear...

The History of Magic: Including a Clear and Precise Exposition of Its Procedures, Its Rites, and Its Mysteries. By Eliphas Levi. Red Wheel/Weiser, 1999. The title of this work says it all! Eliphas Levis was a highly respected occultist whose early restorative work served as the inspiration to many founders of later magical orders. This book is a huge compendium of ancient magic. Written in an exceedingly verbose style and archaic occult language, it is truly a treasure and a delight for the serious student of the western mystery tradition.


Hidden Wisdom : A Guide to the Western...

Hidden Wisdom: A Guide to the Western Inner Traditions. By Richard Smoley & Jay Kinney. Penguin USA, 1999. This is a wonderful though brief overview of the core traditions of enlightenment in the western world. The authors are very knowledgeable about their subject as they were the editors of Gnosis Magazine for many years. If you are curious about the western esoteric traditions of spiritual development, this is a good introduction to the philosophies, lineages, and schools.


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