
Book Review: Secrets of Greek Mysticism by George Lizos
Secrets of Greek Mysticism: A Modern Guide to Daily Practice with the Greek Gods and Goddesses by George Lizos, published by Hampton Roads Publishing, an imprint of Red Wheel/Weiser runs a total of 240 pages. The book begins with Lizos explaining his own cosmological views, as well as the nature of divinity and the Gods and Goddesses. Lizos then goes on to discuss the relationship between humans the Gods and Goddesses, before beginning a section exploring in more depth, the 12 Olympian Gods and Goddesses. Each of the 12 Olympians has a section that covers the deity’s virtues, as well as hymns, prayers, and meditations with those Gods and Goddesses. The end of the book has a section in which you can perform a meditation/ritual to meet your guardian God or Goddess, as well as seasonal and moon rituals with the Greek Gods and Goddesses. The end of the book covers receiving signs and omens through the Greek/Hellenic Pagan viewpoint, and how to ask for them. Secrets of Greek Mysticism is packed full of information, exercises and useful tips for connecting to any one of the 12 Olympian deities.
Personal Thoughts on Secrets of Greek Mysticism
Personally, I was a little disappointed in this book; while the author is a Hellenic Priest, receiving initiation in Greece, he also takes a more New Age/Lightworker stance on the religion of Hellenism. I disagree with his views on the Gods and Goddesses being all love and light, even with his attempts at backing up this idea through philosophies like Platonism. Lizos states that the myths where we see deities like Hera or Poseidon take on more human-like emotion and action, are the attribution of humans, adding that to their nature. I disagree, and I believe most modern Hellenists would as well; the Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Greece are the most well known Pagan pantheon and mythology in the world, and through my own personal experience of 15 years of worship and devotion to these deities, I can most definitely say that they do carry on those characteristics given in the myths. Myths are a point of reference to help a Pagan/Polytheist gain an understanding of the very nature of the deity in question. If they’re all love and light, then what point does a myth showing a more fierce side serve?
This is my biggest issue with this book, as it can be extremely misleading to those new to or exploring the Hellenic Pagan path, and it could even be dangerous in some instances! Take for example, the first Olympian introduced in the book, Hera: Lizos states that when visiting the Heraion, Hera’s ancient temple complex in Argos, Greece, he felt a comforting, nurturing energy of Hera surrounding him. While I’m sure this happened, as I have experienced this side of Hera as well, she is also known to strike down those who are unfaithful, especially men, with one of her chief duties being the protection and upholding of marriage in Hellenic views. So of course she was going after Leto, Semele and others! My point here is, that while yes, each God or Goddess, regardless of Pantheon, has their light side, to ignore the darker, more fierce side of their being is dangerous and can lead to problems. Lizos states that the Gods and Goddesses are the ones who perform the functions of the universe; if this is true, and in my experience, it is, then the Gods and Goddesses must also have a darker side, because destruction, etc., is necessary for change and other processes, which is an immovable truth that occurs on a universal level. Does Zeus not bring destructive storms to lay the foundation for flourishing crops? Does Ares not protect those who call on him with sometimes harsh and aggressive means? The darker sides of the Gods needs consideration too.
Theological criticism aside, there is value in this book. The virtues given of each of the Olympian gods and goddesses are accurate, and can help you become more spiritually in tune with your arete, or personal excellence, something Hellenists value highly. While I dislike the term “ascension”, as I see it as more of a New Age concept, and less Pagan, because as Pagans, we are not to become above the world of matter, but rather, walk in the world of matter and spirit. Those looking for a truly Pagan perspective on the subject may disappointed by some of the material and ideas presented in Secrets of Greek Mysticism. Those who have a more mediumistic view may find more value in the material, but regardless, I view it as a good resource for developing a deeper relationship with any of the 12 Olympian Gods and Goddesses. The ritual section at the end was a nice addition, giving those who are less medium oriented, and more ritual oriented, a chance to put the information into action, developing a system to worship and devote to the Ancient Greek Gods. On a scale of 1-5, I give Secrets of Greek Mysticism a 3.5; it’s not beginner friendly for those looking to study Hellenic Paganism, but it is a useful resource for those already on the path, and can also help anyone develop a relationship with these powerful Gods and Goddesses. It misses the mark in some ways, and totally makes the mark in others.
George Lizos is a Greek Pagan Priest, spiritual teacher, psychic healer, and bestselling author of Protect Your Light. He hosts the Lit Up Lightworker and Can’t Host podcasts. Lizos participated in the first official priesthood training in Hellenic Polytheism organized by the Supreme Council of Hellenes in Athens following the Greek Government’s acknowledgement of Hellenism as a legal religion in 2017. George is now a practicing priest of the world’s first modern temple to Zeus in Cyprus. You can find him on Instagram @georgelizos and at www.georgelizos.com
About the Author:
Hello there! I’m the Modern Merlin, and I’ve been a Polytheist Pagan, Witch, Sorcerer, Wizard, Mystic, Ceremonial Magician, Shaman and Soothsayer for 15 years, worshipping and working with deities and spirits from many cultures, including Ancient Greece, Rome, Norse & Germanic, Celtic, Egyptian, Sumerian, as well as Yoruba & Voodoo deities. I study and practice Astrology as well as Tarot and other forms of divination. I give readings and spiritual services on my Facebook Page, The Modern Merlin, as well other free informational posts for everyone to see!
