Wheels within Wheels: Chakras and Western Esotericism

by Phil Hine, Maria Strutz (illustrator)

Wheels within Wheels examines the passage of chakras into Western Esotericism. Beginning with an overview of how chakras were conceptualized in early tantric traditions, Phil Hine traces how chakras captured the imagination of both Indian and European Theosophists in the late 19th century. He explores their appearance in the early Western Esoteric imagination, from the Christian mysticism of James M. Pryse to the practical exercises of Aleister Crowley. He examines the influence of Sir John Woodroffe’s The Serpent Power and the writings of Charles Webster Leadbeater, and how chakras were psychologized in the work of Jung, to their role in contemporary therapy culture."Spinning radiant circles of infinite hue, each containing secret mantras to bring miraculous powers to those who seek - such are the reputed properties of the Chakras that have beguiled New Age practitioners for nearly 150 years. In this highly readable and groundbreaking book, Phil Hine explores the available texts from Indian tantrik sources and contrasts them with modern Western notions that have infiltrated and changed the way the East regards the chakras too."Mike Magee, author of Kālī Magic and Yakṣiṇī MagicWheels Within Wheels is absolutely essential reading for both scholars and practitioners, telling the important story of the emergence of chakras into the canon of contemporary Western magic. This lucid and erudite history traces the development of chakras from their origins in Indian and Tantric esotericism to becoming a foundational and often unquestioned schematic of Western occultism in the modern era. With his characteristic clarity, Hine sifts through challenging primary sources and disambiguates the earliest Tantric conceptions of chakras from their modern counterparts. In so doing, Hine offers an opportunity for contemporary practitioners to enrich their practice while historians of esotericism will enjoy this deep dive into how “Western” esotericism has incorporated, appropriated, and recontextualized “Eastern” esoteric practices.Amy Hale, author of Ithell Colquhoun Genius of the Fern Loved Gully, editor, Essays on Women in Western EsotericismThroughout my life I have encountered only two types of information about Chakras. The first is aimed at western magicians or yogis that are not practicing in a traditional system. These books either provide partial information out of context, or modern takes on the subject that bear little resemblance to how chakras are understood in India, Nepal, Tibet or anywhere else. The second type of information is aimed at Tantrikas who are familiar already with the systems that Chakras emerge from, as well as other equally important parts of the subtle body like nadis, bindus, and prana. Digesting this info is a high bar to meet for someone primarily interested in Witchcraft, Occultism, or just getting fit at the local Yoga studio.Phil Hine has presented a much-needed third option. A text written in clear language that traces the strange journey that chakras have taken in the west, while also shedding clear light in how they are understood in India. Wheels Within Wheels is aptly named because inside the wheels that western magicians thought they knew, lies a much deeper and richer truth.Jason Miller, author of Real Sorcery and other books and courses.

180 pages, Paperback

Published February 7, 2024

About the author

Phil Hine is an author and occasional lecturer on a variety of occult & related subjects, when he gets time away from producing print & digital magazines & IT Management. He edited an acclaimed Pagan magazine - Pagan News for five years.

Reviews

[Rodrigo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really applaud Phil Hine's investigation into the origins of the chakras, so embedded now in holistic, therapeutic and esoteric circles in our modern day. He demonstrates how ideas of chakras were re-interpreted in Theosophical thought and later Jung, and how these interpretations, far from the original tantric concepts, are taken at face value in the Western world. Personally it changed my view on chakras and their origins and now I'm starting to see them in a very new light

[Marco · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Wheels Within Wheels: Chakras and Western Esotericism" by Phil Hine is an illuminating exploration into the fascinating journey of chakras from their origins in early tantric traditions to their current place within Western esoteric thought.

Hine, known for his insightful works on contemporary occult practices, once again demonstrates his prowess as a scholar and practitioner with this latest offering. The book not only delves into the historical and cultural passage of chakras into Western mysticism but also offers a critical analysis of their evolution and the myriad ways they have been interpreted and reinterpreted over time.

Hine's work begins with a foundational understanding of chakras within the tantric traditions of India, providing readers with a clear perspective on the original conceptualizations of these energy centres. He skillfully traces their migration into Western esotericism, capturing the intrigue and adaptation by both Indian and European Theosophists in the late 19th century. This narrative is enriched by Hine's examination of key figures such as James M. Pryse, Aleister Crowley, Sir John Woodroffe, and Charles Webster Leadbeater, whose contributions have significantly shaped the Western esoteric understanding of chakras.

A standout feature of "Wheels Within Wheels" is its exploration of the psychologization of chakras, mainly through the work of Carl Jung. Hine critically assesses how Jung and others have integrated chakras into Western psychological thought, transforming them from mystical energy centres into tools for personal and psychological growth. This aspect of the book offers profound insights into the complex ways Eastern spiritual practices have been adapted and sometimes appropriated by Western culture.

Before it became the comprehensive exploration it is today, this groundbreaking analysis began as a series of four distinct booklets. These booklets were exclusively available at Treadwell's Books in London, a renowned hub for those keen on exploring the depths of esoteric knowledge and occult practices.

During this pivotal time, I was wrapping up my role as the online store manager at Treadwell's. This position offered me a unique vantage point, not just on the esoteric literature that passed through our doors but also on the thinkers and practitioners who brought these works to life. Phil Hine, who was among these pivotal figures, engaged in freelance work for Treadwell's. His presence in the store was not just as a contributor but as a vibrant part of our community, sharing insights and sparking discussions that would illuminate the complex world of esotericism for many.

The genesis of "Wheels Within Wheels" in its booklet form was a process I witnessed firsthand. Conversations with Phil often veered into the depths of his research and the fermenting ideas in his mind. These discussions revealed the meticulous care and profound thought Phil invested into understanding and interpreting the chakras' journey from their tantric origins to their place in Western esoteric thought. The transformation of these ideas into booklets represented a significant contribution to the discourse on esoteric practices, making complex and often misunderstood concepts accessible to a broader audience.

The decision to initially release his work as booklets through Treadwell's was a testament to Phil's commitment to the esoteric community. It allowed for a direct and intimate distribution, ensuring that those most interested in and capable of engaging with the material would have first access. These booklets, now revised and expanded into the book we have today, mark the evolution of Phil's thought and the increasing relevance of his insights in understanding the cross-cultural exchange of spiritual practices.

"Wheels Within Wheels" is not just another book on chakras; it is a critical, in-depth analysis that stands out for its scholarly rigour and accessibility. Hine's ability to juxtapose ancient texts with modern interpretations makes this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the cross-cultural exchange between Eastern spiritual practices and Western esoteric thought. It challenges conventional narratives and encourages readers to consider the complex, interconnected history of these spiritual systems.

In conclusion, Phil Hine's latest offering is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the chakras' journey from Eastern mysticism into the heart of Western esoteric practices. Through meticulous research and compelling writing, Hine not only educates but also captivates, making this book a must-read for scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in the rich tapestry of spiritual traditions that span our globe.

[Hakim · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://biblioversum.blogspot.com/2024...