Book Review- Theurgy: Theory & Practice: The Mysteries of the Ascent to the Divine-Homeric Epics, the Chaldean Oracles, and Neoplatonic Ritual by P.D. Newman

Book Review

Theurgy: Theory & Practice: The Mysteries of the Ascent to the Divine-Homeric Epics, the Chaldean Oracles and Neoplatonic Ritual

By P.D. Newman

Publisher: Inner Traditions

211 Page E-Book

Release Date: December 5, 2023

Theurgy: Theory & Practice is a book that covers a complex subject that’s made even murkier by the numerous traditions that practice it, within the occult and magickal worlds. For those who don’t know, Theurgy is the act of ascent to, and union with, the divine, by whatever name(s) you may call it. Theurgy is one of the first ceremonial practices I learned, and has formed the backbone of my practices since I began my theurgical practices.

P.D. Newman examines the basics, intricacies and nuances of this subject, while relating it to the different philosophies of the ancient world, and the different practices and customs for theurgy. Not only are ancient traditions mentioned, such as those in Homer’s The Illiad and Odyssey, Newman also covers the primal beginnings of theurgy- katabasis, or the descent into the underworld, where the shades of the dead reside. Katabasis is perhaps the most well known form of theurgy, and is practiced as “Underworld Journeying”, as well as some forms of Necromancy and other spiritual death practices. From there, Newman explores the various philosophies and influences, leading up to the more modern art of theurgy, within Hermeticism and similar movements.

While not a formal manual on how to perform theurgic ritual, it does provide a solid background based on academia, religious and occult studies, and the reader will find the material within its pages inspiring them to craft their own theurgic rituals, should they wish to do so. I chose this book because of my avid interest in theurgy and invocation of the divine, and Theurgy: Theory & Practice did not disappoint! I have no critiques and will recommend this text to anyone looking to learn more about, or start practicing, theurgy in its many forms. I give Theurgy: Theory & Practice a 5/5 pentagram rating.

P.D. Newman has been immersed in the study and practice of alchemy theurgy for more than two decades. A member of the Masonic Fraternity, Society of Rosicrucians, and the Martinist Order, he lectures internationally and has published in numerous journals. He lives in Tupelo, Mississippi.

 

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Author Bio:

The Modern Merlin has been a Polytheist and Animist Pagan, Wytch, Sorcerer, Cannabis Wytch, Poison Wytch, Druid, Mystic, Ceremonial Magician, Occultist, Seer and Soothsayer for over 15 years. He venerates and casts magick with deities and spirits from many pantheons, including those from Ancient Greece, Rome, Celtic Lands, Norse & Germanic Lands, Khemet (Ancient Egypt) and others, as well as numerous spirit allies, ancestors, and even Saints, Angels and Demons! He has experience practicing both the Left and Right Hand Paths, working with both hands as needed. He practices Necromancy as well as Traditional Witchcraft, Ceremonial Magick, Grimoire Magick and Natural Magick, as well as Occultism in general. He incorporates all of these different practices into a personal system that’s ever evolving as he continues to grow and learn as a person as well as a Sorcerer & Occultist. He also studies and practices Astrology as well as Tarot and other forms of divination such as Runes, Palmistry and Ogham. He has also been investigating the paranormal for over 10 years and has a keen interest in researching various mythologies, cosmologies and folklore from around the world. He is the Co-Editor of PaganPages.Org and the author of multiple columns, including The Modern Merlin’s Corner, Entheogens for the New Gen, Stellium, and Scary, Strange and Mythical Encounters. He gives readings and other spiritual services on his Facebook Page, The Modern Merlin, as well other free informational posts for everyone to see!