Gnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition of Inner Knowing

Gnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition of Inner Knowing
Average customer rating:

Very Disappointing

Hard to imagine a better introduction to gnosticism

A Great Introduction

Not recommended

Well written easy to understand introduction.

Gnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition of Inner Knowing
HoellerfStephenA
Manufacturer: Quest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
Gnosticism | Church History | Christianity | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Performing Arts | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0835608166

Book Description

This authoritative introduction reveals Gnosticism as the indigenous mystical tradition of the West and considers its message to Judeo-Christianity in the twenty-first century.

Customer Reviews:

Very Disappointing.......2007-08-04

I do not believe i have read a book written in a worse manner. Firstly, there are constant references to Jung and depth psychology, as if either had any importance to the history of gnosticism, and this detracts very much from the readability of the book. Secondly, the author makes almost as many references to ideas shared between gnosticism and "esoteric" spirituality without expounding on them, leaving the reader confused about some of the more troublesome beliefs of gnosticism. thirdly, the writing is almost intolerably lax (a chapter subtitled "will the real gnostic please stand up?" comes to mind), and the author seems to make assumptions about the level of familiarity of the reader with gnosticism. fourthly, and perhaps most importantly, it feels as though there is very little information about historical gnosticism.
for another review that i felt was honest, though a bit harsh, see the other one star review.

Hard to imagine a better introduction to gnosticism.......2007-05-08

This is a wonderful book. I love this book, from the cover with the colourized woodcut of the Quester breaking through to another world, to the informative back cover. I recommend it to anyone interested in Gnosticism, the history of Christianity, or even to someone just looking to read something learned, fascinating, but unusual. I particularly recommend it to the person who may feel they have gnostic sensibilities. To such a person this book will be a revelation. In Gnosticism Dr. Hoeller took so many of what were to me intriguing loose ends and wove them into the beginnings of a substantial personal gnostic fabric. After reading this book, I was left feeling much happier in the knowledge that I was following, and indeed was a part of, an ancient tradition, and that there have always been others, and are currently a significant minority of others, who think in a similar way to me. Indeed, the book leaves one with the feeling that doors have been opened, but that, consequently, much more can now be accomplished, always bearing in mind that, 'The subject (Gnosticism) is not one that lends itself to an all too elementary treatment; rather, it requires a certain subtlety of thinking and a proclivity for an intuitive perception.' Preface, xi.

While Dr. Hoeller is always a consummate scholar, the book is written in a contemporary, readable, and extremely entertaining style. It has an excellent index, bibliography, and a helpful glossary. Highly recommended.

A Great Introduction.......2006-10-24

This is a great place to begin for the seeker who wishes to learn about the path of Gnosticism. The problem is that Gnosticism is largely an umbrella term for a wide body of sometimes conflicting beliefs and traditions, which pre-date even Christianity. Much of the books available, while scholarly, are often long-winded and confusing. Perhaps this is due to the nature of the Gnostic path itself, being heavily based on myth and symbol, unique to each individual. Dr. Stephan A. Hoeller, whose contributions to the 20th century Gnostic revival are immeasurable, has done a fine job of assembling some of the basic tenets, influences, and history of Gnosticism, in this introductory book.

Not recommended.......2006-05-05

This book was painful to read, full of psychological and metaphysical mumbo jumbo. About all the lay person can expect to get out of this book is that the author worships the likes of Carl Jung. There must be a better first book on Gnosticism.

Well written easy to understand introduction........2006-02-28

Not a religious or spiritual person myself, this was a great book for introducing me to the values, history and evolution of Gnostic thought. The writer was not being preachy or ridiculing the Gnostic belief system. It was a great factual representation of it. If you are at all curious about Gnosticism, this is a great place to start.

Stations of the Light: Renewing the Ancient Christian Practice of the Via Lucis as a Spiritual Tool for Today

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"Stations of the Light" ancient practice brings fresh inspiration

Stations of the Light: Renewing the Ancient Christian Practice of the Via Lucis as a Spiritual Tool for Today
Mary Ford-Grabowsky
Manufacturer: Image
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

Ritual | Other Practices | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

General | Spirituality | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0385511655
Release Date: 2005-02-22

Book Description

This is the first book to introduce the fourteen joyful and highly symbolic events that make up the Via Lucis, the Christian Way of Light, an ancient spiritual tradition celebrating the post-Resurrection life of Christ on Earth.

The Stations of the Light, with its “good news” of healing and salvation, is becoming an increasingly popular devotion throughout the United States and the world, and was recognized by the Vatican in its Jubilee 2000 campaign. While Christians of all denominations are familiar with the Stations of the Cross, few know how to celebrate the Stations of the Light, a practice that came into being through inspiration from ancient Roman sources.

Stations of the Light is a clear and inspiring guide to making this ancient ritual part of contemporary Christian life. The stations mark the fourteen sacred events in the post-Easter story, from “Jesus Rises from the Dead” to “Pentecost: The Risen Lord Sends the Holy Spirit.” For each one, Mary Ford-Grabowsky presents a variety of spiritual practices that invite readers to form their own realistic and sacred image of the event. Beginning with relaxation and releasing the imagination, these exercises are designed to help convey the story and foster inspiration, and include ancient and contemporary meditations, reflections, and prayers; as well as journal writing, artwork, music, and mantras.

Customer Reviews:

"Stations of the Light" ancient practice brings fresh inspiration.......2007-08-27

This book came with me on a recent personal retreat. It uses the major events surrounding Easter, and the season immediately following the Resurrection, as the focal points for contemplation at each station. I didn't know when I packed the book that it would become a major inspiration for my time apart from the daily busyness of a Pastor's life. (God provides what we need, just when we need it most.) I had been through some extra struggles in the course of the past year, and had just been given some new challenges to face. A day apart to think and pray was desperately needed. "Stations of the Light" provided a way of looking at these challenges through the lens of God's enduring love and promise in Christ. I picked it up, thinking I might find some restful thoughts to comfort my soul, and I couldn't put it down! I found not rest, but courage for continuing the journey of faith. I was reminded that whatever new surprise life might bring, whether joyful or sorrowful, delightful or challenging, this too is of God. I entered the retreat with dozens of questions, and this book helped me focus my energy as I walked along the 14 stations of light. At the end, I knew with Julian of Norwich that "all shall be well, and all shall be well, all manner of thing shall be well." An experience of loss became for me a welcoming ground for spiritual understanding. I discovered opportunities to know myself better, to more fully live out my calling, and to better serve God and other people. I took the book back to my church and used it as the basis for a 24 hour prayer vigil for my congregation. We set up several of the stations around the outer perimeter of the sanctuary, with pictures downloaded from the web and quotes from the book as prayer-starters. It was very well-received by those who participated in the vigil. I highly recommend this book for those with contemplative souls!

Average customer rating:

A Fascinating Book
A sumptuous tale with few stops for breath
I loved it! Suspenseful, passionate, breathtaking imagery
A Book to Savor
A Really Bad Soap Opera

The Light Bearer
Donna Gillespie
Manufacturer: Berkley Trade
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

Historical | Genre Fiction | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0425143686

Amazon.com

Quo Vadis for our times! Well, not exactly. It's been awhile since anyone tackled the Roman Empire as entertainingly as Gillespie has done in this book, a nearly-straight historical novel which should please readers of fantasy, too. Germanic Auriane is a combination of the noble, natural savage, and the heroine marked from birth for great deeds. Roman Marcus Julianus is the personification of the highest civilized, republican Roman values. Both are typical and atypical of their societies, fighting for what each believes to be just. Their individual struggles with the clashing Roman and Teutonic cultures are carried out in the Northern forests and in the salons and arena of Rome. Strongly- drawn characters, a setting both familiar and exotic (we all know something of imperial Rome, but very few of us are well-informed about it), a whiff of New-Age ancient mysticism, and a subdued but important romance subplot drive the sweeping novel of Auriane's growth and maturity and Rome's decadence.

Book Description

On the day of her birth, Auriane received a mysterious amulet from a priestess-and a doubleedged prophecy of doom and glory. The daughter of a Germanic tribal chieftain, Auriane witnessed unspeakable horrors committed against her people by ruthless invaders. And when tragedy tore her family apart, she took the oath of a warrior, and vowed revenge. Tales of her brilliant swath of conquest carried as far as Rome, to the renowned statesman Marcus Julianus-who felt his destiny intertwined with Auriane's, and wore about his neck an identical amulet

Customer Reviews:

A Fascinating Book.......2007-10-04

This is a big book by any standards, 800 pages and is the result of years of research and study by the author into the culture, and history of Rome and the Germanic tribes. I found it fascinating, exciting and thought provoking. In fact everything that a good book should be.

The year is AD 83 and the Emperor Domitian has crossed the Rhine with four legions, approximately 24,000 men and they have not marched that far for the exercise. The German tribes have tried to maintain their independence for as long as they can, but against such might their resistance is futile. Thus begins this mammoth book that takes us from the heartlands of the Rhine back to the decadence and temptations of ancient Rome.

A young woman Auriane, daughter of a chieftain who was to become the most revered prophetess of the tribes is captured and taken to Rome as a slave. There her life is changed completely and everything that she stands for is brushed away like so much rubbish. But having known her destiny from being a child Auriane is not about to bow to the yoke of Rome without a fight . . .

A sumptuous tale with few stops for breath.......2007-09-12

There is much I could say about "The Light Bearer" which has already been said, but as I don't review all the books in McCullough's Masters of Rome series (of which I've ready each book), I don't feel I can properly do justice to the greatness of this sweeping epic, which unlike McCullough's work, spans not just from Rome, but from a not well known Germanic tribe called the Chattians.

Gillespie does an amazing job of keeping Rome and Germania separate in writing details, with an inevitable connection between the two. Much is equally known about both the Chattians and the Romans as if written by two authors with the same writing style.

Some high points I point out are the very subtle rise of Domitianus's deranged paranoia and Caligulan/Neronian style reign, though the foreshadowing was a bit too obvious for my tastes.

Other interesting bits are the use and apparent source of commonly known modern things among the Chattians, such as the Goddess of the underworld, Hel, and the Eastre celebration, involving children dressed as rabbits and the hiding of colored eggs.

Because the flaws are so few and insignificant in the face of the greater elements, I think it's easier to point them out:

The writing is very sumptuous, but often at times it can get too dense and bogged down in details. This occurs mostly the first time Auriane enters the Colisseum.

Also, the sex. I've become used to ancient historical novels writing sex scenes very metaphorically and obtusely, without using direct wording. Gillespie appears to take it to such an extreme, with the vividly flowery writing between Marcus and Auriane's lovemaking that it becomes like a dense poem jackknifing from the wonders of nature and life and the gods in an obtuse manner, you nearly forget that the two characters are having sex. So over the top is the writing, that the way Gillespie describes it, you'd think Auriane was having blinding orgasms at just Marcus's touch on her arm or chest.

With the state of Rome at this point, and the main character being a foreigner and enemy to Rome, it's inevitable that a bias against Rome would be drawn, but the male character of Marcus Arrius Julianus is so much the outcast that there is little distinction between how Auriane and Marcus view the Roman world despite their differences. Auriane views Rome as savage and barbaric, and a plague on Fria's realm, whereas Marcus views it in somewhat the same fashion, but figures it's all he has, so he may as well love it.

Aside from Julianus and some of the senators friendly to him, you'd think Rome was a festering pot of corruption, barbarity, and bloodlust the epitome of the Roman view of the barbarians, while the Chattians are viewed as pure, natural, children of the earth that can do no wrong and are victimized by everyone from Rome to their neighboring tribes. Any opposition to Baldemar, Auriane's father and chieftain of the Chattians, is viewed as petty greed and personal problems on the part of the dissenter.

Some forgiveable offenses include loose ends, which may be tied up in the sequel "Lady of the Light", or the as of yet unnamed second sequel, including both Marcus and Auriane having amulets of earth from their childhood, duplicates of one another, and Auriane's seeming mystical foresight.

All these flaws are minimal, in my view, and not much to drag the otherwise epic tale down a full star in rating.

There is one issue with both Auriane and Marcus Julianus which may detract some readers, though is apparently done in such a way that broad interpretation can explain it away as easily as it couldn't: Gillespie may be guilty of "Mary-Sue"ing with Auriane and Marcus Julianus. Both seem to be greater than their surroundings, meant for greater things not yet known to either, and with little to no flaws beyond what their separate societies have naturally imbued in them (stubborn traditionalism in Auriane, cynic realism in Marcus), and beautiful physiques. From a certain point of view, many of their actions or words appear to be Mary Sue-ish reflections of the author's own point of view (determined by the narrative) or of a sense of moral or social well-being beyond that of someone from ancient times.

Or this could simply be the tired ramblings of a fussy reader.

Either way, the over 1000 page epic was a great read, and a highly insightful view into how the Germanic tribes of the early Roman Empire, and the early Roman Empire itself may have been.

I loved it! Suspenseful, passionate, breathtaking imagery.......2007-05-18

The Lightbearer is truly an amazing read. Once I began it, I couldn't pull myself away from the spell of Auriane, woman warrior, fighting for the survival of her embattled Germanic tribe against the all powerful Roman army. The characters are so richly drawn, I had an immediate sense of our shared humanity, despite the remoteness of their times. I was captivated by the vivid descriptions of these two worlds, sometimes hauntingly beautiful, sometimes disturbingly barbarous, always artfully rendered through Gillespie's exquisite prose. This is definitely a page turner filled with passion, struggle, heroism, and intriguing myth. With this carefully crafted tale Gillespie enters the arena of master storyteller.

A Book to Savor.......2007-05-18

Every possible element of good writing comes alive in this book. Gillespie recreates a lost time with such powerful detail we can feel we're living there with her characters. Those characters are larger than life, just as they should be in an historical novel of epic scope. Who would want to read about Robin Hood if he couldn't shoot an arrow straight?
But best of all is the plot. I don't *think* I read books for plot, but without a plot, no book really succeeds. It's like the skeleton of a human. You don't want to look at someone's hipbones directly, but without them, there are no graceful dancers. Gillespie's plot is as intricate as a 3,000 piece jigsaw puzzle and that's what drew me in and got me so involved with the characters that I was disappointed to see the book end -- and it's not a short book, either.

A Really Bad Soap Opera.......2007-05-17

As a student of ancient art, archaeology, and history, this book was on my "to read" list for a long time. Sadly, I was unable to get past the first 100 pages and I tried, I really did. I have never NOT finished a book. This book is awful and tries to hard, screaming "amateur." I guess I should have judged this one by the cover...

The storyline is rambling and full of tacky feminism/mysticism. The diologue is overdone with an absurd amount of metaphors and similies (bordering on laughable). The characters have no depth, despite insight into their thoughts at every possible moment. Everyone is so dramatic and over-the-top. I felt no emotional attachement and didn't care what happened to any of them. I also took issue with the over-simplified and stereotyped "good, harmonious tribes of the north" v.s the "evil, war-mongering Romans."

However, it must be said that Gillespie did a lot of research to present historic facts in order to re-create the time period. It's just too bad the novel reads like a really bad soap opera script.

Ancient Egypt - The Light Of The World: A Work Of Reclamation And Restitution In Twelve Books

Average customer rating:

Achoo!

Ancient Egypt - The Light Of The World: A Work Of Reclamation And Restitution In Twelve Books
Gerald Massey
Manufacturer: Nuvision Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Africa | History | Subjects | Books

Egypt | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

Egypt | Middle East | History | Subjects | Books

General | World | History | Subjects | Books
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ANCIENT EGYPT: The Light of the World

ASIN: 1595472835

Book Description

In the first volume of Ancient Egypt, Massey was primarily concerned with elaborating how the first humans emerging in Africa created thought. In the second volume, Massey examines the celestial phenomenon known as the Precession of the Equinoxes.

The Complete facsimile edition in two volumes

Download Description

ANCIENT EGYPT: THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD - A WORK OF RECLAMATION AND RESTITUTION IN TWELVE BOOKS by GERALD MASSEY, AUTHOR OF "A BOOK OF THE BEGINNINGS" and "THE NATURAL GENESIS" Please Note: This book is easy to read in true text, not scanned images that can sometimes be difficult to decipher. The Microsoft eBook has a contents page linked to the chapter headings for easy navigation. The Adobe eBook has bookmarks at chapter headings and is printable up to two full copies per year. Both versions are text searchable.

Customer Reviews:

Achoo!.......2007-06-07

Truth is all-potent with its silent power
If only whispered, never heard aloud,
But working secretly, almost unseen,
Save in some excommunicated Book;
'Tis as the lightning with its errand done
Before you hear the thunder.
-Gerald Massey

this can be read for free online here - theosophical.ca/AncientEgyptIntroduction.htm

Lost Light: An Interpretation of Ancient Scriptures

Average customer rating:

One of the most impressive books I have ever read on the subject
Excellent!
The Restoration of Consciousness
A book for all time
A book that will change your life.

Lost Light: An Interpretation of Ancient Scriptures
Alvin Boyd Kuhn
Manufacturer: Kessinger Publishing, LLC
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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Controversial Knowledge | Religious Studies | Religion & Spirituality | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1564591778

Book Description

With keys drawn from ancient Egypt's wisdom it (The Lost Light) pierces through the outer veil of Bible literalism and alleged history and reconstructs the long-lost structure of sublime arcane meaning. He establishes the epochal fact that the Christian religion can no longer be considered a product of Judea in the first century A.D., but is of remote Egyptian origin." "The evidence amassed demonstrates beyond cavil that the Bible is a reprint of old Egyptian texts." Partial Contents: Wisdom Hidden in a Mystery; Loosing the Seven Seals; The Descent to Avernus; Colonists from Heaven; The Mummy in Amenta; Dismemberment and Disfigurement; Earth, Water, Air, Fire; Baptism at the Crossing; The Ark and the Deluge; The Lake of Equipoise; Suns of Intellect; At the East of Heaven.

Customer Reviews:

One of the most impressive books I have ever read on the subject.......2007-06-05

Not a light read by any means, but so very worth it. I can't add much to what the other reviewers have said, but I have read countless books on religion/Biblical interpretation and so forth, and Mr. Kuhn's works are by far the most comprehensive, and most valuable, that I have found so far. I have read Massey, and Harpur as well as others, and there is simply no comparison. Kuhn shines like a beacon in the night. It is sad that this book is not well known, or given the rich recognition that it undoubtedly deserves. It will likely change your life.

Excellent!.......2005-08-30

Kuhn was a gifted, scholarly and prolific writer. This is a very well written and well researched book. Kuhn is an unbiased writer and has no ax to grind with Christianity. He simply separates the historical from the mythical.

The Restoration of Consciousness.......2005-05-02

The Christ within has guided A. B. Kuhn to writing the Lost Light. Many marvels of scholarship shine through this work to bring the opportunity of grace and divinity to each soul. The Renaissance has barely begun. Kuhn declares "Voltaire, Paine, Ingersol, the Encyclopedists, the Deists, the atheists and the Freethinkers and religious skeptics generally have torn away and trampled underfoot the outer garments of Biblical myths, all unaware these clothed the body of truth." Then we have some highest examples of ancient illuminati thinking - such as - the meaning of the original word "ark" (p428) - "to keep off, ward off, defend, protect in an enclosure" such as a palisade or corral - a defense from the ravaging waters. Then the statement "Hannah equates to Anna" (p479). Hannah name means Grace - Israel was saved by grace as she brought forth Samuel -a prophet of the Lord. The personification was found in New Testament times - Anna entered the temple in the same instant as Joseph and Mary brought Jesus - " a light to lighten". Anna is Greek for the Hebrew Hannah. Obviously Kuhn sees in these stories essential virtues and far more than the commonly accepted version - and duplication indicates mythological content. Kuhn sees the real beasts of Revelation as the emergence of one fundamentalism verses another falsity - the ten horns despise the [woman] that sits there upon. The ten horns represent the ten law giving tribes of Israel being subjected to false spirituality - represented by the feminine - represented by the (...). Kuhn accepts that historical elements were included within the mythological form from the time of Hezekiah (p96 K.O.G) - and I think he sees that the seven heads of the beasts are representing the seven kings from Manasseh to Zedekiah. The scholarship of Kuhn paves the way for our generation to go much further and show why the coming beast is scarlet and what incarnation is. In a sentence Kuhn says "the grandeur of truth" will be restored when the scriptures are read as sublime spiritual allegories "instead of histories". A masterly work in scholarship that will change your life.

A book for all time.......2001-07-16

The hand of destiny must have led me to this book.It is about the journey of the immortal soul: how it comes into matter, its trials and tribulations, and its goal of regaining its lost divinity.The divine soul is "the persistent traveller on the highways of heaven." Its story is at the core of religion.Kuhn studies many ancient scriptures, particularly those of ancient Egypt, to make his case.He convincingly shows that Christian scriptures also tell of the soul's journey.His starting point is that all scriptures are written in symbolic language, and are not to be taken literally, otherwise confusion will reign. He shows that Christianity is a re-telling of the age old wisdom which is common to all humankind.The Bible is a much misunderstood book, but Kuhn provides the keys to unlock its secrets.As a carrier of a divine soul, every human has a stupendous role to play in the cosmic drama, as explained by Kuhn.Those few who are ready for this book will will get a truly mind blowing experience from it.

A book that will change your life........1998-05-13

For anyone with an interest in Religion this book is a 'must'. It is one of the very few works that I have felt privileged to be able to read and although it is not anti-religion or anti-Christian in any way, it will seriously challenge a person's faith.

Kuhn, who wrote in the earlier part of this century was a scholar of the highest order, with various qualifications including a PhD in philosophy. Equipped with a working knowledge and deep understanding of Greek, Hebrew, Latin and Egyptian Demotic, he is able to delve into the very foundations of Religion and thus is able to expose the very foundations of it.

Originally, Religion was the domain of the Goddess and most un-biased societies can, if they are honest in their approach, track back to those origins. But somewhere along the way, Man got into the act and usurped the status quo and thus the Light of the title was Lost. It has yet to be regained.

From Kuhn's masterly introduction, where he tells the real story of the raising of Lazarus, he grips the reader's attention. The fact that he offers to recount the tale in Hebrew, Greek, Latin or even Egyptian Demotic gives an indication of the man's intellect. However, it is in the re-telling of that one story that my attention was captivated, for how could a story incised in stone by the ancient Egyptians, be claimed as original in the New Testament of the Christian Church? In recounting the tale, Kuhn is able, through his scholarly approach, to show consisely where the names of the characters and places came from. He then amasses such a wealth of evidence that the truth of the matter is undeniable - and that is only his introduction.

All in all, "The Lost Light" is a masterpiece of scholarship. No serious student of Religion should consider themselves to be so without reading it. It took me five years to track down a copy and I am delighted that it is now available through Amazon. It is one of those few books that can genuinely change one's life.

Book Description

Solid scriptural and archaeological evidence refutes the traditional interpretation used to bar women from leadership.

Customer Reviews:

I Suffer Not a Woman.......2007-05-19

Just what I am looking for to help me understand Gods Word in light of
1 Timothy 2:11-15.

An Excellent Study of 1 Tim 2:11-15.......2005-11-28

The study this book takes on is one of the most difficult in Scripture regarding gender and one of the most difficult for most churches in general. All of the restrictions placed on women in most Christian churches originate from just two places in the NT: 1 Cor 14:32-35 and 1 Tim 2:11-15. Those two sets of verses have resulted in a theological position over 1900 years that has restricted women to the point that in some "ultra-conservative churches" they cannot even read aloud from the Bible in a class room setting in the presence of men. Understanding the issues and problems along with a basic understanding of Greek word useage, the Roman/Greek customs and laws, and the outside influences on the Christian churches of the 1st Century is an absolute necessity in order to be 1st Century Christians in a 21st Century environment. It is a diffucult undertaking to say the least. The Kroeger's have done an excellent job in this book of researching the background of 1 Tim 2:11-15 and have shown that there are many misconceptions, misunderstandings, and a general lack of knowledge and historical perspective regarding the Greek language of 2000 years ago and how it changed over time, the customs of the Roman empire at the time the Apostle Paul wrote 1 Timothy, the problems that the church in Ephesus was facing with pagan religions and Gnosticism taking hold of the Christians at Ephesus, and why the women were more prone to be misled by Gnostic beliefs and then try to pass on those erroneous beliefs. Those women had to be silenced for a time to prevent the church in Ephesus from falling totally into the Gnostic beliefs that were prevelent in Ephesus at the time.

This book will also enlighten the reader in the history of the pagan beliefs in Ephesus, Gnosticism, and how Gnosticism grew out of these beliefs. That part of the study alone makes this book worth purchasing. Also, the study of the Greek word "authentien" makes this book an exceptional value for the money and a permanent addition to any library. "Authentien" is probably the key word in 1 Tim 2:11-15, and without a good understanding of all of its various useages and meanings and how its useage changed over time, one cannot come close to understanding the problems that have risen over the years regarding the proper translation of the sentence in which the Apostle Paul used the word, the only time it is used in the entire NT.

I highly recommend this book! It should be a must read for anyone who really wants to do in-depth study on 1 Tim 2:11-15 and it is especially valuable for anyone interested in studying gender issues in the modern church. It is very well written, very well researched, and very well documented. The Kroegers have published one of the best studies I have ever read on this subject.

Along with this book, I would highly recommend reading the following books: "Paul, Women, and Wives: Marriage and Women's Ministry in the Letters of Paul" by Craig S. Keener, "Slaves, Women, and Homosexuals: Exploring the Hermeneutics of Cultural Analysis" by William J. Webb, "Women in the Church: Reclaiming the Ideal" by Carroll Osburn, "Deacons: Male and Female" by J. Stephen Sandifer, and "Men and Women in the Church" by Sarah Sumner.

Better not disagree with Kroeger...or else!.......2005-09-30

If you are not a feminist or sympathetic to modern revisions of scripture to suit contemporary fads, then you won't like this poorly researched screed. Whoever disagrees gets to wear the appointed titles/descriptions Kroeger and his wife choose, like "traditionalists," or "those who justify the abuse of women by citing Scripture" (p. 38), or the abusive powermongers who possess "a monopolistic attitude" (p. 93). The council for biblical manhood & womanhood have a fine review of all the factual and doctinal errors which are contained in this book. Check it out on their website, because even if you are an 'open-minded' egalitarian you will find it informative to know how your view is sometimes caricatured.

Very Freeing.......2004-04-16

I found this to be a very fresh and scholarly look at some very difficult scriptures. This book did an excellent job of uncovering some of the prejuidices and errors that have been misread into these scriptures. I am a very conservative scholar myself and some explanations would not be acceptable. However the Kroegers have used solid hermenuetics and I found their research very complete. I would also recommend Charles Trombley's book "Who Said a Woman Can't Teach". I do not recommend "Women in Ministry" as was recommended by another reviewer of Kroeger's book. The viewpoints espoused in that book are very negative towards women and very traditional.

Average customer rating:

Outstanding pictures of this beautiful land!

Greece: Land of Light
Barry Brukoff
Manufacturer: Bulfinch
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Collections, Catalogues & Exhibitions | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0821229044

Book Description

Now for the first time in paperback, this classic provides a dramatic visual and written introduction to the land, people, culture, and history of Greece. Greece is a legendary destination, and anyone who has once fallen under its spell dreams of returning again and again. GREECE: Land of Light captures the essence of Greece-its striking sea and landscape, its people, its culture and history, and its ancient monuments. In the stark light of the Greek sun, colors become so pure and clear that they are almost audible. From the tip of the Peloponnese to the remote mountain villages of the far north to the islands of the Aegean, Brukoff's brilliant color images and Gage's evocative words delineate the heart of Greece. Included are the great classical ruins, Byzantine monasteries, colorful fishing villages, chairs at outdoor tavernas, octopus drying in the sun like laundry, and the ubiquitous cats-the vivid details that each traveler takes home as a memory. Gage's insightful essays on the turbulent history of Greece, its myths and beliefs, life in the villages, the age-old wisdom and spirit of the Greek people, and above all, 'Greece's unearthly, spiritual, almost holy light' are a passionate tribute to an extraordinary country.

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding pictures of this beautiful land!.......1999-09-27

An excellent book of pictures of the people and country. Makes me want to return to this lovely land of Greece again.

Faery Wicca, Book 1: Theory and Magick, a Book of Shadows and Lights (The Ancient Oral Faery Tradition of Ireland)

Average customer rating:

WOW!!!
A Beautiful Ritual Guide
I am always amazed by my sisters and brothers
My Introduction to wicca
Does it really matter....

Faery Wicca, Book 1: Theory and Magick, a Book of Shadows and Lights (The Ancient Oral Faery Tradition of Ireland)
Kisma Stepanich
Manufacturer: Llewellyn Publications
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Enchantment Of The Faerie Realm: Communicate with Nature Spirits & Elementals

ASIN: 1567186947

Customer Reviews:

WOW!!!.......2007-09-30

If you liked Witta this book is for you!!
I would have had a alot less problem with this book if Wicca were not in the books title.So much has been thrown into Wicca over the years people really have come to belive that Wicca really is Celtic.I think mostly becuase the word Celtic is a good way to sell you something Runes,Chinese art anything from England and Germany is fair game. The list goes on and on.As long as you are buying they will be selling.This book falls in with the above.I know this is lost of most of you, I really do.I could not get through most of it .This is a Ancient Tradition ?? just becuase you wish it to be will not make it true.If it were called a New Faery Tradition or a Modern Tradition of Ireland that may have been different.

A Beautiful Ritual Guide.......2007-08-04

I used to own this book, but no longer... not because there's anything wrong with it, but because it was stolen. Now, I go online to get a replacement copy and see all these horrible negative reviews. This is just childish. Did anyone actually believe that the faith depicted in this book was handed down through the ages unchanged from the time the Gauls set foot on the shores of Erin and fought the Tuatha De Danann? I don't remember Kisma even so much as implying that it was. What it is, and does a wonderful job of, is a Wiccanization of Celtic faery faith. As Starhawk would say, we are all moving towards the future, "Creating Religion," and it's a shame that some members of the Wiccan/Pagan community see fit to belittle others for their beliefs and the way they choose to implement them. I truly expected more from folks who chant "Burning Times-never again!" but I guess that's too much to ask. Small wonder that we have trouble being taken seriously as a religion in this, and many other, countries.

Courtney Patricia "GamerGirl" Parsons

I am always amazed by my sisters and brothers.......2007-01-05

I have encountered *so* much negativity and unspecified criticism while reading reviews for so many pagan books. I find it interesting because if you don't like I book I agree you should say why and I am all for a critical review but some of these entries are simply spiteful and not consturcutive at all! Putting such negative energy out will surely spill yr glass of milk!! If I had never read the book I would prolly buy it to see what all the fuss is about.

That said, I read these books (both one and two) when I was about 15-16 and at the time I loved and cherished them. They were not my "intro to wicca" (I am pagan not wiccan anyway) they weren't the first or last books I read and they certainly are no where near being the "cornerstones" of my faith or spiritual explorations. But I did love them. I am a voracious reader and even if they were/are complete fiction they are still worth a read.

to those who say she "fabricated" or purely made things up (and it is true Irish folk didn't have potatos in ancient time!) I would have to remind you of the great Monnique Wittig quote:

remember
make and effort to remember
and failing that; INVENT!

My Introduction to wicca.......2005-05-27

This book was my introduction to wicca, I have to say it was a pretty good book. I found alot of the information in it useful and learned alot. There are some things that I just didn't believe and others that now (10 years later) I have still kept very close to me.
I have read alot of the comments on both of the books and all I have to say is this, Wicca is about learning, studying, and helping eachother. Itis not about bashing anauthor for where or how they got there information. I am sure some of the things from this book did come from other souces. But tell me what can you say when you are writing about an ancient religion that has been passed down generation after generation. I for one would not like an author who just made up a fiction book and sold it as a guide to wicca.
I learned a lot from this book not just regular information which is what the words hold but I also learned a very important
thing from this book that I have to say you really don't learn from other books. History is a very important element. I learned a lot of history but also learned to want to learn history. That is a very important element that I feel is missing in a lot of wiccan books That I found in this book.

Does it really matter...........2005-04-04

I haven't read the book... yet... but does it really MATTER if its plagerized? If she still gets the information accross... then what does it matter? She still puts a works cited list... You can check out other books yourself... Stop complaining, enjoy the fact you HAVE information (unlike me, who wishes he had these books, but doesn't have a single wicca book)... Plagerized or not.

The Ark of Millions of Years: New Discoveries and Light on The Creation

Average customer rating:

excellent seller and product
This is good to know information.
Fun to read, like so - so si fi
Rubbish
Fits into the sign of the times

The Ark of Millions of Years: New Discoveries and Light on The Creation
E. J. Clark , and B. Alexander Agnew
Manufacturer: AuthorHouse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1418434027

Book Description

One of the hottest topics of discussion in the world today is the creation of the Earth. There are so many points of view from so many ages that nobody thought there would ever be one work that could explain it all. Until now. The Ark of Millions of Years is an ancient title. The authors have done this title justice by compiling and decoding all the schools of thought into one exciting work. From the Rabbi to the priest to the astronomer to the astro-physicist to the armchair archeologist, there is tremendous food here for all. You will see the scriptures as you have never seen them. You will understand the pyramids, the temples of the Yucatan, and the very stars in heaven as well as the greatest scholars. The prophecy has been fulfilled. Through space and time this book answers more questions and provides more understanding between its covers than anything written in any language. Period. Why? Because this work combines the works of a dozen ages into a landmark publication in the genre of world creation. If you''re thinking about writing a book, this will be in your bibliography. Each time you refer to its pages throughout your life you will learn something else about the nature of the universe, our earth, and perhaps your very soul. Knowing the origin of the earth, the scope of its present, and the potential of its future will add limitless power to your knowledge.

Customer Reviews:

excellent seller and product.......2007-02-13

Item as described and received in a timely manner... an excellent buying experience!

This is good to know information........2006-07-08

As this world gets crazyier, this book is starting to make more sense. No matter what your religion is, this book has something for you. It fills in a lot of blanks in mainstream religious books. It is a big book that reads quickly. This info is very controversial but needs to be given a chance.

Fun to read, like so - so si fi.......2006-03-16

This book was a fun read that is if you don't care about scholarship. Reading this book is like listing in a Sunday school class where two smart guys speculate about a lot of stuff that sounds cool, but it doesn't go much further than that. Many of their conclusions are improbable, and their so-called factual basis in ancient scripture to support their claims is only their private interpretation of those scriptures. They take a quote from some manuscript and interprets its meaning to support their idea, but the same scripture could be used to support another claim by another smart person too. Nevertheless, if you like reading spiritual/historical speculation this is the book to read.

Rubbish.......2005-11-01

The hoaxmeister of Arc of a Million Years, Brooks A. Agnew, has the following bio on his web site:

"Brooks A. Agnew, PhD grew up in Pasadena, California around JPL [the Jet Propulsion Laboratory] and Cal Tech. He entered the Air Force in 1973, where he graduated top in his class in electronics engineering. As a physicist, he is the most accomplished pioneers (sic) of ground probing radar technology in the world. This technology is currently utilized in the Mars Express program.

An author of thousands of technical papers, booklets, or video documentaries Dr. Agnew has joined with veteran archaeologist EJ Clark to produce the most comprehensive book ever written on Intelligent Design and the creation of the Earth. Thousands of readers call it the greatest story on the universe. Their self-published non-fiction work became a national best seller in less than 60 days. His philosophy is, "Everything we do will eventually affect the universe. Do it on purpose."

Wow! What a smart guy. Yet when I do an internet search for my dad, who is a real PhD in plant physiology, I get dozens of entries despite the fact that he has been retired for ten years. When I search for Brooks A. Agnew (or variations) I only get the one entry; his book Arc of a Million years. Kind of strange for a guy who invented a cool radar technology and published "thousands" of scientific papers, etc. But the fact that he is lying about his bio should come as no surprise. Why else would someone mention they were raised "near" the Jet Propulsion Laboratory? His credentials are as bogus as his book and his book is only for the gullible.

Fits into the sign of the times.......2005-09-29

I would think that by now that the agenda of the counsil at nicia turkey, that led to the murder of millions, even later in the U.S. the witch hunts, they shut off Enoch, they gave their inturpitation of Paul, in other words those bishops said "this is where history begins" , and in order for you to get to heaven , you pay your tax and we will get you to heaven, they buried the earlier christian beliefs, the gnostic texts, and too much other stuff, too pull off their agenda, The Universal Church.(Catholic), and the writers of the King James had what the Roman Church left for them to work off of. But new old stuff has been found and translated and published, "The Nag Hammadi Library", The Lost Books of the Bible, The Dead Sea Scrolls,The Book Of Enoch, so as more is found then there will probably be a new Bible wrote, I am glad that writers like E.J. Clark, Graham Hancock,and Andrew Clark, have ran with this information. The guts of Zecharia Sitchin, going back to post flood summaria, and bringing to life those civilizations and tying them in with Preflood exsistence, I used to think Hemmingway, and Mitchner were good reading !! I can handle a Celestrial Earth, but then I can handle the Arcturians also. I can't wait for Vol. II Thank you !!

From Light into Darkness: The Evolution of Religion in Ancient Egypt

Average customer rating:

An Egypt tour leads to an unforgettable adventure in Egyptian Religion!
Interesting, but largely unsupported
True vision of the evolution of modern religions in ancient Egypt
From light into darkness by s,mehler
Outstanding!

From Light into Darkness: The Evolution of Religion in Ancient Egypt
Stephen S. Mehler
Manufacturer: Adventures Unlimited Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Egypt | Ancient | History | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1931882495

Book Description

Building on the esoteric information first revealed in Land of Osiris, this exciting book presents more of Abd'El Hakim's oral traditions, with radical new interpretations of how religion evolved in prehistoric and dynastic Khemit, or Egypt.

* Have popular modern religions developed out of practices in ancient Egypt?

* Did religion in Egypt represent only a shadow of the spiritual practices of prehistoric people?

* Have the Western Mystery Schools such as the Rosicrucian Order evolved from these ancient systems?

* Author Mehler explores the teachings of the King Akhenaten and the real Moses, the true identity of the Hyksos, and Akhenaten's connections to The Exodus, Judaism and the Rosicrucian Order.

Here for the first time in the West, are the spiritual teachings of the ancient Khemitians, the foundation for the coming new cycle of consciousness -- The Awakening.

Customer Reviews:

An Egypt tour leads to an unforgettable adventure in Egyptian Religion!.......2006-10-01

"Yet while much of the world was in darkness, worshipping cruel incarnations of natural forces, a river valley in Africa held a people who followed a different path."

Light, Akhenaten reference point:
Akhenaten, also known as Amenhotep IV, was king of Egypt during the Eighteenth Dynasty and reigned from 1375 to 1358 B.C. Called the Religious revolutionary, per Excellence, is the earliest known creator of a new religion. The cult he founded broke with Egypt's traditional polytheism and focused its worship on a single deity, the sun god Aten. Nineteenth-century scholars have laid the foundation for our knowledge of Akhenaten's period and extends to the most recent archaeological finds, emphasized that Akhenaten's monotheistic theology represented the first attempt in history to explain the entire natural and human world on the basis of a single principle. "Akhenaten made light the absolute reference point." Erik Hornung, one of the world's preeminent Egyptologists, writes, "and it is astonishing how clearly and consistently he pursued this concept." Hornung also addresses such topics as the origins of the new religion; pro-found changes in beliefs regarding the afterlife.

Kemet's Ancient Technology:
In Kemet, ancient Egypt, there were numerous gods, but rather than living on an isolated mountain or in an unreachable heaven, many of them lived invisibly in the mortal world, acting through sacred sites, items, animals, or even chosen people. Mehler's early obsession with Kemet turned into later theosophical studies that began to crystallize while reading one of the works of J. Kinnaman, a freelance historical search Egyptologist, who claimed to have shared with Sir Flinders Petrie the secrets of ancient Kemetic technology hidden within the Great Pyramid. It included devices to overcome gravity, and to turn the Great Pyramid into a massive telecom transmitter. These Hermetic secrets has ultimately been made public by Steven Mehler, starting with his first book, The Land of Osiris!

In the Land of Osiris:
Travel to Egypt and experience a country of rugged, harsh beauty mixed with reminders of the most impressive ancient civilization known to man. The awe-inspiring treasures and stunning landscapes of this country are perfectly complimented by the warmth and hospitality of its people. In Egypt, seeking affirmative clues, Mehler, escorted by a Giza tour guide called Hakim Awyan, who claimed to be a secret Keeper of the oral Hermetic traditions of the Glorious Kemet. Mehler was impressed by this pretentious Sufi, mysteriously in possession of what he alleged to be the true ancient wisdom of Kemet, to be his own lay theosophical mentor. Among the "numerous awesome secrets' that this ancient keeper revealed to Mehler, in Sufi hallucinations was that the undisputed title 'Pharaoh' referred not to the king of Egypt, but to the queen, who chose the king herself. Egypt, according to Hakim was a matriarchy, where women controlled power and wealth from behind the scenes. Hakim (Arabic= Wise man) also believed that the Sphinx was built before 50 millenniums, and that the Giza pyramids are considerably older than archaeologists believe. Hakim's Egypt was in fact very ancient, its civilization, had an advanced technology mastering stone cutting, more sophisticated than modern Carrara marble standards. Water to generate enormous amounts of energy, tapping this energy in a much different way than we do today. And, according to Hakim, the most important center of ancient energy was the Great Pyramid of Giza, Mehler argues that those houses of energy, the pyramids were associated with generation of energy by their very names.

This book by leading world Egyptologist:
You could meet in Giza, Luxor, and Cairo Museum tours very eloquent, though illiterate, very entertaining tour guides, even when they have no Egyptology credentials, or knowledge of Hieroglyphics, Demotic or Coptic. Their social interaction enforces their charm but does not give them the authority to mentor research writers, even if they were wisdom keepers, an office lastly occupied by Amon Saccha, Plotinus mentor in second century Alexandria!
While it is irrelevant to discuss an entertaining imaginative account of issues mostly explored by Egyptologists, it is important to note that those Sufist deductions, as in Chapter 11; 'The source' are in the realm of Sufi fables, not Kemet's wisdom teachings.

An alternative historical thought:
While the book is fascinating, as a new age science fiction, it is what Doug Elwell precisely described as, "another interesting addition to the search for our ancient, mysterious past... Part travelogue, part historical-cultural analysis, part ancient technological treatise fits neatly into the emerging travel/alternative history niche that is becoming increasingly popular amongst a public that is growing more and more tired of the pedantic, condescending ramblings of a mainstream academic archaeology that has become largely irrelevant."

Interesting, but largely unsupported.......2006-06-16

Based primarily upon oral Egyptian traditions from one source, the author creates an integrated set of hypotheses to form a "theory" of human & religious development in direct opposition to academic Egyptologists, written records from Manetho, Josephus, etc. (which the author dismisses out of hand), & conflicting stories, legends, myths from other traditions around the world (read some Joseph Campbell & study comparative mythology). He provides precious little & highly ambiguous data & some Rosicrucian, scientific, & unsupported "alternative researchers." The bulk of the book is highly speculative & moot. True, Egyptologists are rightfully uncertain about much of ancient Egypt since there's insufficient data & information for accurate knowledge of such ancient times. The book strongly reminds me of Erich von Daniken's "Chariots of the Gods" except that von Daniken had more data--though his interpretation of it was somewhat suspect & there are alternative, less dramatic explanations for much of it. And, there's the "Da Vinci Code" & "Holy Blood, Holy Grail" for comparison. I'd give more credence to Edgar Cayce's explanation (though from a totally psychic source) since he did perform spectacular physical cures. Also, Ignatius Donnelly's "Atlantis, the Antediluvian World," though speculative, made a reasonable case (by a U.S. Congressman); indeed, scientists today are giving his thesis support. Mehler says himself, p. 176: "This may sound like philosophical meanderings or `New Age woo-woo."

However, in the final chapters, Mehler does provide some spiritual/metaphysical wisdom--though not really new--from Buddhist, Rosicrucian, & other sources. He quotes physicist Wolf, for instance, concerning the nature of soul & science--similar to modern Knowledge Management's technique of Social Network Analysis--communications systems with individual workers as nodes. Also, network storage devices provide computer memory. But, Mehler is so biased towards religion (citing many true examples of "man's inhumanity to man") that he ignores his own assumption of linearity (which he earlier decried regarding human evolution). He might consider the religious life cycle before he discounts religion as a natural human function--Rosicrucians value ritual. He fixates on Neters as forces vs. gods--true for the elite/theory, but not for the common folk/practice--as seen today with worshipers around the world--people tend to be Normally Distributed. Why does he take oral mythology literally, dismissing the written? His analyses of numbers, similarities in word forms/names, & concepts are all faulty. He ignores Jung's archetypes, numbers as symbols (e.g. numerous Tibetan Buddhist 5's), & the 100th monkey principle. Much of the book resembles self-fulfilling prophecy, not science. The book could use a strong dose of epistemology, philosophy of science, & Knowledge Management--& less mythological fantasy. Could some of his conjectures be true? Yes, but he hasn't provided convincing evidence.

True vision of the evolution of modern religions in ancient Egypt.......2006-06-10

This second book by leading world Egyptologist Stephen Mehler is as fundamental as his first book The Land of Osiris. This one is also based in many aspects on analysis of long discussions Mehler had with Abd'El Hakim Awyan, a keeper of oral tradition of the indigenous people of Egypt. In the book Mehler discloses ways that brought ancient people to different religions known today as ancient Egyptian religion, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. He shows that from the pre-historic period to the beginning of the dynastic one Khemitians (the original name of Egyptians) followed pure spiritual practices when people were looking for fusing of their thoughts and the ascension of their spirit. Then Mehler gives a detailed explanation of the appearance of first churches and priests. He accounts for ways and methods, which those priests used to turn people to new ideas when main aspects of nature and spirit became transformed to notions of gods. A very subtle analysis! Mehler could puzzle out very difficult events that took place in Egypt around 1500 BC, which allowed him to present us persons who decided to resuscitate prehistoric spiritual Khemitian traditions. That dramatic period of ancient Egypt resulted in the migration of 12 tribes of Khemitians to a new land known today as Israel. Mehler uncovers those events to the smallest detail, which so far have been unknown even for researchers.

The reader will learn names of top scientists who have studied that time and see a long line of historical persons, pictures of their statues and mummies. The reader will learn that the Rosicrucian Order also originated in Egypt at that time. What was its goal? Who were its leaders and members? At least the reader will learn the name of the true author of Shakespeare plays who also was a member of the Order. This second book by S. Mehler would be of great benefit to those who are interested in archaeology, Egyptology, ancient history and early religions and those who understand that spiritual practice is much more important than more modern religion concepts that lead only to separation of people.

From light into darkness by s,mehler.......2006-03-01

This is the best book I had ever read. When reading hakim's ancient wisdom written by s. mehler it made me shake I couldnt get enough of it. Stephen Mehler Please Please write more of this ancient wisdom by Hakim. I especially loved the oral wisdom on Akhenaten that was so on the money. This book should be a worlds best seller.

Outstanding!.......2005-09-29

Before I begin a review of this book I'd like to point out that I met both Steve and Hakim in 1992 while on tour in Egypt. Steve has become a lifelong friend as a result of that meeting. Steve and I were on separate tours but we both had the privilege of having Hakim as our guide. Most of you reading my comments have never met Hakim. Not only is he a gentle man but the holder of vast wisdom from his indigenous tradition that stretches back for thousands of years. Many persons have regarded him solely as a kindly and experienced tour guide. But because of his 30 years of personal study attempting learn about ancient Egypt especially the king Ahkenaten, Steve was able to discern that there was much more to Hakim than met the eye. As Steve gained more of Hakim's trust, he soon became the student and eventually the transmitter to the public of the ancient Khemitian tradition that has been passed down to Hakim. As he did in The Land of Osiris and now in From Light into Darkness, Steve is sharing with us invaluably important material not only on the spirituality of ancient Egypt but the cyclical, not linear, nature of human existence. He accomplishes this task in 200 pages and written in an engagingly conversational style. Steve provides a telling account how an oral tradition contains greater truth than the written one. He deftly points out the historical conflict between personal direct spiritual experience (the mystical tradition) and religious life mediated by the hanuti (priestly) caste. Very importantly Steve clarifies who the neters were. They were not deities as mainstream academic Egyptology would have you believe but were divine principles framed into a quasi animal/human presentation. The king Ahkenaten did not invent monotheism with the glorification of Aten but was attempting to revive the enlightened state of Aten which was being swamped by the rising power of the hanuti class and the spiritual darkness that came with it. But most significant of all, Steve focuses our attention on a message of hope. The Age of Amun, the time of darkness, is coming to an end and the dawn of Kheper is on our doorstep. For some this may seen Pollyanish but the forces representing the Age of Amun only appear to be in control. Their power is slipping and a new generation has the opportunity to bring the Dawn into fruition.

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