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Secrets of Greek Mysticism: A Modern Guide to Daily Practice with the Greek Gods and Goddesses
A clear introduction to the spirituality, beliefs, rituals, and gods and goddesses of the Greek Pantheon from a modern practitioner.
Secrets of Greek Mysticism is the first spiritual book about the Greek gods and goddesses written by a native, practicing priest of Hellenic Polytheism. It goes beyond the simplistic and archetypical representation of the Greek pantheon and reintroduces the gods and goddesses from a theological, rather than a mythological, perspective. Rather than presenting the gods and goddesses as symbolic, lifeless figures one can use to embellish spiritual practice, Secrets of Greek Mysticism teaches readers how to find each god or goddess within them. This is achieved through grounded insights on the gods’ virtues as they relate to modern life (i.e., practicing bravery with Ares, cultivating endurance with Demeter, and embodying love with Aphrodite), explaining the deeper spiritual meaning of popular myths, practicing guided meditations, activating the gods’ energies with mantras and hymns, and performing simple rituals.
Secrets of Greek Mysticism also makes the claim that for the Divine Feminine to rise, the Divine Masculine needs to rise, too. Rather than solely focusing on female goddesses, it brings together the male and female deities of the Greek pantheon to help readers experience divine union. Secrets of Greek Mysticism
Secrets of Greek Mysticism is the first spiritual book about the Greek gods and goddesses written by a native, practicing priest of Hellenic Polytheism. It goes beyond the simplistic and archetypical representation of the Greek pantheon and reintroduces the gods and goddesses from a theological, rather than a mythological, perspective. Rather than presenting the gods and goddesses as symbolic, lifeless figures one can use to embellish spiritual practice, Secrets of Greek Mysticism teaches readers how to find each god or goddess within them. This is achieved through grounded insights on the gods’ virtues as they relate to modern life (i.e., practicing bravery with Ares, cultivating endurance with Demeter, and embodying love with Aphrodite), explaining the deeper spiritual meaning of popular myths, practicing guided meditations, activating the gods’ energies with mantras and hymns, and performing simple rituals.
Secrets of Greek Mysticism also makes the claim that for the Divine Feminine to rise, the Divine Masculine needs to rise, too. Rather than solely focusing on female goddesses, it brings together the male and female deities of the Greek pantheon to help readers experience divine union. Secrets of Greek Mysticism
256 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2024
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2646 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 9, 2024
If you're interested in Hellenic Polytheism, don't waste your time with this one. It's a vaguely Greek reskinning of generic neopaganism. The modern elements are the same ideas that you'll find in any New Age/Occult book.
Just two of the major errors of this book are:
1. You cannot offend or be punished by the gods
- Yes, you absolutely can, and it is a major part of the religion then and now.
2. Charkras
- Chakras are not a universal truth, and they have nothing to do with the Greek religion.
If you are serious about Hellenic polytheism or working with any of the Greek gods, you're better off reading the myths and histories about how the Greeks practiced. Take what you learn from those stories, make offerings to the god/dess that you feel a connection/interest in, and meditate. Those steps will get you a much more authentic connection than anything this book offers.
Just two of the major errors of this book are:
1. You cannot offend or be punished by the gods
- Yes, you absolutely can, and it is a major part of the religion then and now.
2. Charkras
- Chakras are not a universal truth, and they have nothing to do with the Greek religion.
If you are serious about Hellenic polytheism or working with any of the Greek gods, you're better off reading the myths and histories about how the Greeks practiced. Take what you learn from those stories, make offerings to the god/dess that you feel a connection/interest in, and meditate. Those steps will get you a much more authentic connection than anything this book offers.
May 27, 2024
In this incredibly thought-provoking, detailed book, you will find the angle of understanding the gods that challenges and expands the views normally shared in other literature.
I don’t think there are enough books for a western audience that come from an actual indigenous Hellenic practitioner. While I absolutely adore authors from the west writing about our Gods and Goddesses here in Greece, it’s really something special to read about firsthand pilgrimages to sacred sites that I too have had experiences at — to get to hear a priest of his own temple share his experiences with the gods. There really is a growing community and camaraderie in Greece of polytheists, and it feels good that it’s being shared with the world.
George blends his own perspectives on the Gods with those of the Platonist, Pythagorean, and Orphic schools of philosophy. The gods are described in terms of their archetypes and their energetic signatures. I found this particularly fascinating in the look at how each of the Olympians relates to different virtues, and how those virtues are part of an overall life of Arete, or a virtuous life. It’s not your classic witch and pagan read by any means — it will invite you to think I’m bigger ways about your relationships with deity and the kinds of relationships that are possible.
The Hellenic wheel of the year was also an interesting look at how the holidays of Ancient Greek calendars (namely Attica I believe in this book specifically) and how they hold lessons for our life. This was a new way of looking at the “wheel of the year” concept, which I really enjoyed exploring.
A note: this is largely focused on the Olympians, with some discussion of Titans and Dionysus but mostly it covers the 12. But boy does it cover them! This is definitely the best breakdown of Hephaestus’ energy I’ve come across in any book, and as a devotee of his I appreciate that!
This is a fantastic read beyond how you might apply it to your life — it’s a look behind the curtain at Hellenism in Greece as it’s practiced and taught today. Anyone with an interest in the Greek gods would enjoy this read from any perspective: academic, personal, or otherwise.
I don’t think there are enough books for a western audience that come from an actual indigenous Hellenic practitioner. While I absolutely adore authors from the west writing about our Gods and Goddesses here in Greece, it’s really something special to read about firsthand pilgrimages to sacred sites that I too have had experiences at — to get to hear a priest of his own temple share his experiences with the gods. There really is a growing community and camaraderie in Greece of polytheists, and it feels good that it’s being shared with the world.
George blends his own perspectives on the Gods with those of the Platonist, Pythagorean, and Orphic schools of philosophy. The gods are described in terms of their archetypes and their energetic signatures. I found this particularly fascinating in the look at how each of the Olympians relates to different virtues, and how those virtues are part of an overall life of Arete, or a virtuous life. It’s not your classic witch and pagan read by any means — it will invite you to think I’m bigger ways about your relationships with deity and the kinds of relationships that are possible.
The Hellenic wheel of the year was also an interesting look at how the holidays of Ancient Greek calendars (namely Attica I believe in this book specifically) and how they hold lessons for our life. This was a new way of looking at the “wheel of the year” concept, which I really enjoyed exploring.
A note: this is largely focused on the Olympians, with some discussion of Titans and Dionysus but mostly it covers the 12. But boy does it cover them! This is definitely the best breakdown of Hephaestus’ energy I’ve come across in any book, and as a devotee of his I appreciate that!
This is a fantastic read beyond how you might apply it to your life — it’s a look behind the curtain at Hellenism in Greece as it’s practiced and taught today. Anyone with an interest in the Greek gods would enjoy this read from any perspective: academic, personal, or otherwise.
December 5, 2025
4/5
Secrets of Greek Mysticism by George Lizos is an interesting book that explores ancient Greek spiritual practices and beliefs. The author presents many ideas connected to Greek gods, rituals, meditation, and personal spiritual growth. The book is clearly written and easy to follow, even for readers who are new to this topic.
There were some parts of the book that I really liked. I found the descriptions of the Greek deities and their symbolic meanings very fascinating. The connection between ancient wisdom and modern life was also presented in an inspiring way. The author encourages self-reflection and personal growth, which I think is very positive.
However, there were also things that I did not like so much. Some of the practices described in the book are very different from what I personally believe in or practice. Because of this difference in spiritual views, I could not fully agree with everything the author suggests. At times, the ideas felt too unfamiliar or hard for me to accept.
This book is interesting and thought-provoking, but it may not be for everyone. I agree with some of the ideas, but not with all of them, mainly because of the difference in spiritual practices. Still, I think it is a good read for people who are curious about Greek mysticism and alternative spiritual paths.
Secrets of Greek Mysticism by George Lizos is an interesting book that explores ancient Greek spiritual practices and beliefs. The author presents many ideas connected to Greek gods, rituals, meditation, and personal spiritual growth. The book is clearly written and easy to follow, even for readers who are new to this topic.
There were some parts of the book that I really liked. I found the descriptions of the Greek deities and their symbolic meanings very fascinating. The connection between ancient wisdom and modern life was also presented in an inspiring way. The author encourages self-reflection and personal growth, which I think is very positive.
However, there were also things that I did not like so much. Some of the practices described in the book are very different from what I personally believe in or practice. Because of this difference in spiritual views, I could not fully agree with everything the author suggests. At times, the ideas felt too unfamiliar or hard for me to accept.
This book is interesting and thought-provoking, but it may not be for everyone. I agree with some of the ideas, but not with all of them, mainly because of the difference in spiritual practices. Still, I think it is a good read for people who are curious about Greek mysticism and alternative spiritual paths.
February 4, 2025
This book gives practical, straightforward advice on everything from meditation, setting up an altar, and finding a Matron/Patron deity - all while providing ancient contexts to explain modern traditions. For anyone interested in connecting with the 12 Olympians, this book is an approachable, non-intimidating way to do so.
Each of the 12 Olympians has dedicated chapter that explains their various qualities, virtues, and how to connect with their energy. Each deity also has a guided meditation that is specifically tailored to their domains, which is a fantastic addition! For the beginner, finding resources on how to connect with each individual deity is overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Secrets of Greek Mysticism takes some of the edge off by providing a supportive and informative approach. It serves as a great reference for the new practitioner, as each deity has its own list of colors, symbols, and ways to set up an altar for them.
The most memorable aspect of this book was its discussion of Hera. Admittedly, I’m not the most acquainted with Hera, so I learned a great deal about her while reading. The author makes the correlation between Hera and the concept of the Maiden, Mother, Crone approach to feminine life phases and energy. I found this particularly interesting and enlightening.
While an excellent resource, there are also a few important things to note: this book focuses on the 12 Olympians. There are brief mentions of other deities in the Greek pantheon, but in-depth detail is not provided. If you are looking for information pertaining to deities such as Pan, Dionysus, Hecate, or Hades, it’s best to look elsewhere. The author also takes the reincarnation, soul-ascension (as in each incarnation of our soul is part of the “journey” to enlightenment) viewpoint of spiritual development. Because of this, information about the ancient Greek afterlife is not included.
Each of the 12 Olympians has dedicated chapter that explains their various qualities, virtues, and how to connect with their energy. Each deity also has a guided meditation that is specifically tailored to their domains, which is a fantastic addition! For the beginner, finding resources on how to connect with each individual deity is overwhelming and nerve-wracking. Secrets of Greek Mysticism takes some of the edge off by providing a supportive and informative approach. It serves as a great reference for the new practitioner, as each deity has its own list of colors, symbols, and ways to set up an altar for them.
The most memorable aspect of this book was its discussion of Hera. Admittedly, I’m not the most acquainted with Hera, so I learned a great deal about her while reading. The author makes the correlation between Hera and the concept of the Maiden, Mother, Crone approach to feminine life phases and energy. I found this particularly interesting and enlightening.
While an excellent resource, there are also a few important things to note: this book focuses on the 12 Olympians. There are brief mentions of other deities in the Greek pantheon, but in-depth detail is not provided. If you are looking for information pertaining to deities such as Pan, Dionysus, Hecate, or Hades, it’s best to look elsewhere. The author also takes the reincarnation, soul-ascension (as in each incarnation of our soul is part of the “journey” to enlightenment) viewpoint of spiritual development. Because of this, information about the ancient Greek afterlife is not included.
August 26, 2024
- loved the introduction to greek religions and theology to understand the gods better in Greek paganism
- everything was explained so well that it was perfect for me being so new to Greek practice.
- unlike previous books I've reviewed this books meditations are available to download but you do have to give your name email and pay for access
- small text though so if you have poor eyesight maybe get on kindle
-really enjoyed the descriptions of his trips to visit the gods in Greece very descriptive and almost romantic
- really liked learning about the greek wheel of the year after working with celtic and Anglo saxon for the last few years. Really want to learn more
- they include examples of rituals to use for full and new moons which is so useful to anyone new to this practice or to this culture
- one thing I found jarring was in appendix B where they talk about 3rd eye chakra. Chakras are energy centres colonised from India. I have seen Indian people talk about how the west has taken much of their practices and why I chose to stop referring to them using the westernised versions of the names.
- everything was explained so well that it was perfect for me being so new to Greek practice.
- unlike previous books I've reviewed this books meditations are available to download but you do have to give your name email and pay for access
- small text though so if you have poor eyesight maybe get on kindle
-really enjoyed the descriptions of his trips to visit the gods in Greece very descriptive and almost romantic
- really liked learning about the greek wheel of the year after working with celtic and Anglo saxon for the last few years. Really want to learn more
- they include examples of rituals to use for full and new moons which is so useful to anyone new to this practice or to this culture
- one thing I found jarring was in appendix B where they talk about 3rd eye chakra. Chakras are energy centres colonised from India. I have seen Indian people talk about how the west has taken much of their practices and why I chose to stop referring to them using the westernised versions of the names.
October 31, 2024
This is a necessary read for anyone interested in the Greek Pantheon and Greek Mysticism. With the abundance of information about Greek Gods and Goddesses, I'm grateful for this refreshing read from someone within the culture who lives these practices.
George Lizos offers important and detailed information about the differences between mythology and theology, the cosmos and universe, and religious terms that are contextually necessary and often missed in other texts. I am particularly fond of his nuanced explanation of the non-binary nature of Gods and Goddesses, which I find sorely lacking in New Age dialogue.
The early chapters and description of the soul ascension create a solid foundation for connecting with the Greek Gods and Goddesses outlined in this book. The section on each God and Goddess is clear and concise, with prompts that helped me deepen my understanding of their energy. Lizos wraps up the book in a way that allows me to put everything into practice with supportive rituals, seasonal prompts, and meditations. This is a brilliant read, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to learn more about Greek mysticism!
George Lizos offers important and detailed information about the differences between mythology and theology, the cosmos and universe, and religious terms that are contextually necessary and often missed in other texts. I am particularly fond of his nuanced explanation of the non-binary nature of Gods and Goddesses, which I find sorely lacking in New Age dialogue.
The early chapters and description of the soul ascension create a solid foundation for connecting with the Greek Gods and Goddesses outlined in this book. The section on each God and Goddess is clear and concise, with prompts that helped me deepen my understanding of their energy. Lizos wraps up the book in a way that allows me to put everything into practice with supportive rituals, seasonal prompts, and meditations. This is a brilliant read, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking to learn more about Greek mysticism!
December 23, 2024
Was immediately drawn to this book as I've been looking for something with a modern lens of incorporating Greek Mysticism into my practice. I thought I knew a bit about Greek Mythology after my Bachelor of Ancient History/Religions and despite not being Greek myself, I have been drawn to add some of the deities in my Witchcraft practice. But what this book highlighted to me was that there was more than just the mythology of these deities. George does a really great job of bringing in the theology and breaking down some of the mythological stereotypes in a very accessible way. For me though what I found that set this book apart and made it resonate with me is the practical, day-to-day advice to help bring the gods into your life/home, how to feel connected with them and honour them at festivals/rituals etc. Loved having the author narrate this as well, it was a nice touch which made it feel more authentic.
November 15, 2024
This book is so well written. I like how the author does and incredible job of linking modern practice with ancient philosophers and theologists like Sullustius. I have found this to be a simple, helpful, and practical guide to begin a journey with the benevolent Olypian Gods. Great book, would highly recommend. I was surprised to find that Hera of all the gods, was the one that came forth for power, speaking my truth, and confidence, which was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. George Lizos is living in my head rent free. Sending blessings.
January 29, 2026
Abbastanza utile come punto di partenza, sicuramente non da prendere come "nuova bibbia". Non ho apprezzato le commistioni un po' new age e sui chakra ma nell'introduzione l'autore fa capire chiaramente che questo libro è frutto della sua esperienza. Quindi lo consiglio come base da cui iniziare tenendo conto di questo e che bisogna comunque fare ulteriori ricerche per sviluppare un proprio pensiero
July 6, 2025
Hey! This is George Lizos, the book's author. :) Thank you so much for reading my book. I appreciate you taking the time to read and leave a review. I've written a blog post answering the top FAQs I've received so far, so that you get a better understanding of the book's purpose: https://georgelizos.com/blog/respondi...
May 26, 2024
This was an interesting read. I was not really sure was I was jumping into, based on the description. However, it was a really good walk back to some of the past practices, as well as how the author has adapted it to today's life and practice.
May 3, 2025
Comprehensive
An excellent introduction for those wishing to connect with the classical Greek Pantheon. Well researched with structured practices and informative on the how’s and why’s of the practice.
An excellent introduction for those wishing to connect with the classical Greek Pantheon. Well researched with structured practices and informative on the how’s and why’s of the practice.
September 13, 2024
I couldn’t put it down!! George Lizos - who’s a native, practicing priest of the religion in Cyprus - brings Ancient Greek cosmology and religion to life in a way that’s super practical and easy to understand. He goes beyond just telling old myths and really shows how you can apply these ancient beliefs to your modern spiritual practices. It gave me a whole new way to look at the world and connect with the forces that shape it.
The book is laid out in a way that makes everything easy to follow. George breaks down the steps for setting up altars, doing meditations, and working with different gods and goddesses in a way that feels balanced and relevant today. Whether you’re just curious or already into Greek mysticism, this book is packed with practical tips and insights that you can start using right away. It’s a great read for anyone wanting to bring a little bit of ancient wisdom into their daily life.
The book is laid out in a way that makes everything easy to follow. George breaks down the steps for setting up altars, doing meditations, and working with different gods and goddesses in a way that feels balanced and relevant today. Whether you’re just curious or already into Greek mysticism, this book is packed with practical tips and insights that you can start using right away. It’s a great read for anyone wanting to bring a little bit of ancient wisdom into their daily life.
April 24, 2025
A really informative book about the Greek gods and their worships. As a beginner of Hellenism this was a good eye opener.
I would recommend this to other beginner.
It’s something I will reread since it’s good reminder of what the gods are
I would recommend this to other beginner.
It’s something I will reread since it’s good reminder of what the gods are
September 16, 2024
A Fresh Perspective of the Gods
George Lizos is simply fantastic. This book is an ode to a multitude of research, knowledge, and experience to the walk of Hellenic Polytheism. It allows for a modern understanding of the gods - decentralizing mythology, and instead uprooting theology. With it, he brings a fresh and resonating perspective of what the gods are truly like. He does not shy away from depth, and though this book only features the major gods, the amount of detail to each one is nothing short of devoting. Most of all, George does not shy away from the basis of his research and religion. Rather than sticking to purely reconstructionist, George’s research unapologetically counters this and emphasizes that religion evolves and adapts. He is knowledgeable, well-read, and well-experienced. He navigates each topic with careful consideration, providing supporting evidence to each point. He incorporates more modern understandings of spirituality in a way that is still true and honorable to the ancient religion. I found many points inspiring and interesting, to consider incorporating into my own practiced. For those who are interested in a new perspective of Hellenic Polytheism, paired with detailed research, and a deeper, lively connection to the gods, this is a must read.
George Lizos is simply fantastic. This book is an ode to a multitude of research, knowledge, and experience to the walk of Hellenic Polytheism. It allows for a modern understanding of the gods - decentralizing mythology, and instead uprooting theology. With it, he brings a fresh and resonating perspective of what the gods are truly like. He does not shy away from depth, and though this book only features the major gods, the amount of detail to each one is nothing short of devoting. Most of all, George does not shy away from the basis of his research and religion. Rather than sticking to purely reconstructionist, George’s research unapologetically counters this and emphasizes that religion evolves and adapts. He is knowledgeable, well-read, and well-experienced. He navigates each topic with careful consideration, providing supporting evidence to each point. He incorporates more modern understandings of spirituality in a way that is still true and honorable to the ancient religion. I found many points inspiring and interesting, to consider incorporating into my own practiced. For those who are interested in a new perspective of Hellenic Polytheism, paired with detailed research, and a deeper, lively connection to the gods, this is a must read.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews