The Mystical Qabalah

First - it should be noted that Dion Fortune is not without academic prowess, and it shows in her writing. While offering the mildest of backdrops in objectivity via adept knowledge of western philosophy, the reader is still forced into accepting the terminology, symbolism, and metaphysics adhered to in qabalah. Dion Fortune, clearly a master of the subject matter, has laid everything out step by step, in an order that shows deep structure and purpose. Again, without feeling preached to, or as if to say your will must conform to this system - her approach is to present and not convert. This makes the material welcome, as it allows for critical thinking, and never the feeling that there is an attempt to deceive. Mysticism in general appears extremely subject to deconstruction through scientific analysis - and while any thinker worth their salt realizes its like trying to understand music using mathematics - Fortune does a masterful job of appealing to reason, and maintaining the discipline in her presentation. Be aware however, initially the material presents itself in fair simplicity, and then about 50 pages in takes a quick leap into the intense technical anatomy of the Tree of Life. The conclusion here is that this is a book, while quite digestible as something to read cover to cover, is probably best used as a point of reference, with continual visits, and for any proper student, to be accompanied with a good notebook. My suggestion here is - draw, write, notate, and immerse. This is the Qabalah with a slight Christian bend, but it is not even remotely overt - and while she denounces the practice of Qliphoth, Fortune does recommend knowledge and understanding of that as well. You won't find a lot on Qliphoth in the book, the bare minimum in fact, but for the mystic with right attitude in mind, this is of little concern. For the academic, one only need research good texts on Qliphoth - which, I have yet to find. Not to digress, but, from what I can tell all the texts on Qliphoth are littered with cheese, or way too expensive (which I guess makes sense considering those modern sources). One is probably best served looking Kenneth Grant, or even Macgregor Mathers on the subject. Lastly, regarding Macgregor Mathers - Fortune does offer throughout the book her critique of certain of his interpretations, and that also seems fair - as her axiom is that Qabalah is evolving, as semantics/language is always evolving as well. The world is signifiers - and words are just the current breath... I highly recommend this book for beginner, or adept alike.

I have read several books on the Kabbalah, and listened to an entire tape set of a Rabbi, and no one personalizes and clarifies it as well as Dion Fortune. She makes it accessible to modern readers in a way that encourages and entices at the same time. Reading it the first time enveloped my life experience; I came to perceive everything in terms of Force and Form. I imagine my conversation became unintelligible to those unfamiliar with Kabbalic precepts. But the Tree of Life depicted so clearly here does encompass all aspects of existence. Dion was a priestess in her own order. If interested, read her biography, "Priestess". She has also written intriguing works of fiction, of which I read The Demon Lover, supposedly based on an autobiographical relationship. This is the only book on The Kabbalah that I ever recommend. In fact, I have purchased it for anyone showing an interest in this mysterious teaching. I myself came to it by way of the nephew of a Kabbalic master, who was the boyfriend of a fellow college student. It was pure serendipity that I met him that one time. I had read Fortune's " The Secrets of Dr. Taverner," (also highly recommended) and was convinced they were true stories, and so told this nephew. ( I have since confirmed that the stories were indeed based on true events. ) He then shared with me his knowledge of Dion Fortune and her engagement with the Kabbalah, and recommended this book. I also recommend "Women of the Golden Dawn", profiles of extraordinary adepts of The Golden Dawn, an esoteric "Temple". They were Fortune's peers at that time, and she was once a member. Their astrological charts and those of some of the male adepts are included. This book will change how you see the world and everything in it, including yourself.

Outstanding, insightful, detailed overview of Qabalistic philosophies/thought-processes by a very wise, discerning, and exceptionally qualified woman. I've studied many spiritual practices/ doctrines, but I'd never yet delved into Qabalah. Fortune's book was my first foray into the subject, and since completing it, I've ordered Israel Regardie's "Garden of Pomegranates" for further perspectives on Qabalah & information on pathworking, as it's called. I've realized Qabalah is: 1) a complete template of the human psyche/spirit as well as the macrocosmic level - (a feat made possible due to the fact that it was purveyed via Archangel Metatron). Hence i'd categorize the knowledge in this book as "Esoteric Psychology", helping you to unlock an ever-higher perspective of reality/self through the cultivation of discernment. 2) the missing/hidden link of spirituality for Western peoples (we've always relied exclusively on Eastern traditions, such as Buddhism & Hinduism, being unaware of the existence of Qabalistic traditions, which may prove more natural, harmonious, & lucrative for the "Western temperament".) 3) the missing mystical aspect of the Christian religion. (although Christianity grew out from Judaism, it neglected to borrow this important tradition of knowledge/ process of illumination) Fantastic book by Dion Fortune- aka Violet Firth- and a great asset to the spiritual Seeker. Peace- Paul C.

i dont get why anyone would call this book difficult sure is not a read for kids getting into kabbala but i have found precious gems of knowledge scattered in the pages of this book and watching myself reading it and having deep realizations about meaning , the examples are clear and the author has a superb hability to condense and distribute the knowledge among every page of this magnificent book. this book should be included in every shelve of any real magician or at least toe someone who is trying to make an honest effort in understanding God, the world and Humanity .

Got this pretty quick in the mail- pristine copy at a decent price. I read "Psychic Self Defense" right before I ordered this. I haven't cracked this open ( I just finished reading "The Book of Neptune"by Steven Forrest (a great modern book for astrology/psych/healing work, btw) but, I am looking forward to diving in. If it's anything like the previous book of hers I read then I am sure I will enjoy it even though the subject seems to be more dense of course than anecdotal narratives about psychic phenomena. Dion Fortune seems to explain things in a more down-to-earth way than some of her contemporaries who are touting the same subject. I always come away having thoroughly learned something new.

93... this book should need no review , for anyone that would benefit from the vast amount of wisdom ,contained herein. would detract from the books value. if you want aeasy to understand and in depth study of the tree of life ,the sephoirth, the navitoth, and the complete , corresponding attriubites for each of the aforesaid , is incalcualable, to any student of he esoteric or magickal lifestyle. even those who aren't into magiack or mysticisam ,still can et a great deal of psychological exercises to break down old ,negative patterns so they never resurface to bother one again. literally killing your own demns. 93/93

Very good read however book is falling apart only after having for a month

The Mystical Qabalah by Dion Fortune is her magnum opus. All her other written material lead here. I'm glad I've read all that, because all that taught me what I need to know to read this. This is it, this is where results can happen. The book is about meditation of the 10 spheres on the tree of Life. That meditation can prepare one to do ritual on the tree of Life and change consciousness by so doing. You learn about The 3 Pillars, The Lightning Flash, The Supernals, The Lower Tree, The Interconnectedness Of Everything. At the end of the book are suggestions for working The Paths. Her society gives an editorial update. Initiation is the way to work The Tree and evolve.

Ok

This book offers a structured introduction to the symbolic and psychological dimensions of Qabalah, focusing on the Tree of Life as a framework for understanding consciousness and inner development. It’s dense in places and assumes patience from the reader, but rewards slow, reflective study. I found it most useful as a symbolic map rather than a literal system, particularly for linking psychology, mysticism, and philosophy. The language reflects its time, but the core ideas remain relevant. Best suited to readers interested in Western esotericism and contemplative study rather than practical instruction.

Beautiful book, aesthetically, and informatively. Priceless book priced at just 30 dollars is incredible, can't go wrong. Incredibly happy with this purchase

Excelente mataerial para mis clases de relajación y visualización. Dion Fortune sencilla y al tema con instrucciones veraces que no dejan la lectura en una simple anécdota sino que profundizas hasta la práctica. A mi si me gusta.

As with most book,s on this subject you need to read slow and sometimes go back and read again this is a must book