The Magical Ritual of the Sanctum Regnum (ePub)

Éliphas Lévi, born Alphonse Louis Constant (1810-1875), was a French occult author and ceremonial magician widely regarded as a pivotal figure in the revival of Western occultism in the 19th century. Beyond being an author, Lévi was also a poet and a prolific translator. His works played a crucial role in shaping modern occult philosophies and practices, blending elements of magic, Kabbalah, alchemy, and Christian mysticism. Lévi's seminal work, 'Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie' ('Transcendental Magic, its Doctrine and Ritual'), published in 1854-1856, left an indelible mark on the esoteric community for its insightful treatment of magical theory and practice. Another significant contribution by Lévi is 'The Magical Ritual of the Sanctum Regnum,' wherein he interpreted the Tarot's major arcana as symbolic keys to esoteric wisdom. Through his literary endeavors, Lévi developed and popularized the concept of the astral light, a foundational principle in hermetic philosophy, and he established the archetype of the magician as a spiritual guide. His influence extended to occult organizations and notable figures such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and Aleister Crowley. Lévi's work continues to be a cornerstone for students and practitioners of the occult, cementing his reputation as one of the preeminent esoteric scholars of his time.