The Magic of Éliphas Lévi (ePub)

Éliphas Lévi, born Alphonse Louis Constant (1810-1875), was a French occult author and ceremonial magician. Renowned for his influential role in the revival of Western esotericism in the nineteenth century, Lévi's writings were pivotal in shaping the modern magical revival. His work synthesized earlier strands of magic, Kabbalah, Christian mysticism, and other esoteric traditions, creating a new and enduring vision that has continued to captivate both scholars and practitioners. His seminal work, 'Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie' (1854-1856), translated into English as 'Transcendental Magic, its Doctrine and Ritual,' lays the groundwork for his views on magic and the occult. 'The History of Magic' (1860) and 'The Key of the Mysteries' (1861) further contributed to his reputation as a pioneer of modern occult philosophy. The collection 'The Magic of Éliphas Lévi' includes several of his texts, bringing his esoteric thoughts to a broader audience. Lévi's literary style is marked by its rich, often dense, metaphorical language, seeking to express intricate philosophical and mystical concepts. His legacy is seen in the way modern magical societies and beliefs systems, such as Wicca and Thelema, have drawn from his theories on the nature of magic and the use of magical symbols.