The Book of the Law - Aleister Crowley

The Book of the Law - Aleister Crowley

The Book of the Law: A Grimoire of Modern Magick

Aleister Crowley's The Book of the Law is a seminal work of modern magick, a grimoire that has inspired and influenced generations of practitioners. Written in 1904, the book is a collection of channeled texts that Crowley received from a discarnate entity known as Aiwass. The book is divided into three parts, each of which contains a series of verses that provide instructions and guidance on the practice of magick.

The First Part: The Book of the Law

The first part of the book, also known as Liber AL vel Legis, is the most well-known and influential section. It begins with the famous proclamation, "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law." This phrase encapsulates the central tenet of Thelema, the philosophy and religion founded by Crowley. Thelema teaches that each individual is their own god and that the only law is to do what one wills.

The first part of the book also contains instructions on how to perform magick, including how to create a magickal circle, how to invoke and evoke spirits, and how to use talismans and other magickal tools. Crowley also provides a number of rituals and spells that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as healing, protection, and love.

The Second Part: The Commentaries

The second part of the book, also known as Liber AL vel Legis: The Commentaries, is a collection of Crowley's own commentaries on the first part. In these commentaries, Crowley provides further explanation and guidance on the practice of magick, as well as his own personal experiences and insights. The commentaries are a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about Thelema and the practice of magick.

The Third Part: The Appendix

The third part of the book, also known as Liber AL vel Legis: The Appendix, contains a number of additional texts that are related to Thelema and the practice of magick. These texts include essays, poems, and rituals, as well as a number of letters that Crowley wrote to other magicians. The appendix is a valuable resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about the history of Thelema and the practice of magick.

Why You Should Read The Book of the Law

The Book of the Law is a powerful and influential work of modern magick that has inspired and influenced generations of practitioners. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in learning more about Thelema, the practice of magick, or the history of Western esotericism.

Here are a few reasons why you should read The Book of the Law:

  • It is a seminal work of modern magick that has had a profound impact on the development of the Western esoteric tradition.
  • It contains a wealth of practical instructions and guidance on the practice of magick, including how to create a magickal circle, how to invoke and evoke spirits, and how to use talismans and other magickal tools.
  • It is a source of inspiration and empowerment for anyone who is seeking to live a life of freedom and self-expression.
  • It is a beautifully written and poetic work that is a joy to read.

If you are interested in learning more about Thelema, the practice of magick, or the history of Western esotericism, then I highly recommend that you read The Book of the Law. It is a powerful and influential work that will change the way you think about the world and your place in it.