Qabalistic Concepts: Living the Tree

by William G. Gray

Emphasizes how the Qabalah actively influences the Western Mystery Tradition. Gray discusses the value of "nothing," the purpose of the cross, the tree of life, and path working. His work makes Qabalah accessible to the Westerner, presenting it as a way of working with the inner principles of life to reveal one's ultimate identity and activate it in one's everyday awareness.

Genres: Occult, Magic, Nonfiction, Magick

400 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

About the author

English ceremonial magician (1913-1992)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_...

William G. Gray, better known to many as Bill Gray, was an English ceremonial magician, Hermetic Qabalist and writer, who published widely on the subject of western esotericism and the occult. Gray founded a magical order known as the Sangreal Sodality.

Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name

Reviews

[Taylor Ellwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the surface this book is about the Quabala and how to to learn and work with the Quabala. A deeper reading reveals that this book is really about how to develop a viable system of magic. The Quabala is used as an example, but the principles and practices that Gray shares in this book can be used for other models of magic. This is one of the best books I've read about magic, because it takes a technical look at what's involved in creating a system of magic as well as how you develop the necessary connections and work around the system. Whether you're looking to understand Quabala better or want to develop your own system of magic, this is a must read book. Note: The author does have some biases that will offend some people reading the book. Just recognize he was a product of his time and culture.

[Daniel yarlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books i read about qabala.. need to be read slowly in my humble opinion so you can absorb it better.. or too much information at once can be confusing and overbearing.

[Gaze Santos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although focusing mainly on the Qabalah, this book is really more of an introduction to the Western tradition of Ceremonial Magick in general. Very much in the same vein as Israel Regardie and Dion Fortune, or Gareth Knight. What sets it apart from these is the more modern mode of writing, which makes for a more accessible read. It is also full of simple and practical exercises to help illustrate and understand the concepts presented throughout. Each chapter ends with study questions to help the reader make sure they have a good grasp of what they just read. Indeed the books is more of a workbook. If the exercises and questions are done as the book directed, one will surely finish the book with a solid understanding of the material. This book is highly recommended for the beginner in Qabalah. Those looking for a deeper/detailed study of Qabalasitic concepts will have to look elsewhere. It does however present a different system of attribution of the Tarot trumps to the paths of the Qabalah that is worth considering and examining.