Peter Levenda

Peter Levenda, born in 1950 or 1951, is an American author whose work primarily explores occult history. He is widely recognized for his book "Unholy Alliance," which investigates Nazi involvement with esoteric beliefs and practices. Levenda also has a connection to the "Simon Necronomicon," a book inspired by H.P. Lovecraft's fictional creation. While Alan Cabal suggested Levenda authored it under the pseudonym "Simon," and a copyright registration lists Levenda as the author under that pseudonym for "Gates of the Necronomicon," Levenda himself has publicly denied being "Simon."

Levenda's academic background includes a degree from Florida International University. His extensive bibliography covers a wide range of esoteric topics, including political witchcraft, alchemy, Kabbalah, Masonic mysteries, Tantra, and the legacy of Adolf Hitler and Nazism. His writings often delve into the intersection of historical events, secret societies, and mystical traditions, aiming to uncover hidden influences and historical narratives.

Peter Levenda is particularly known for his research into the occult aspects of Nazism, a subject he explored in depth in his book "Unholy Alliance." This work examines the historical connections between the Nazi regime and esoteric traditions, investigating how occult beliefs may have influenced their ideology and actions. Levenda's exploration in this area delves into the phenomenon of Esoteric Hitlerism, seeking to understand the spiritual and mystical dimensions that some scholars and practitioners associate with the Nazi movement. His subsequent expanded edition of "Unholy Alliance" further develops these themes, reflecting ongoing interest and research in this controversial intersection of history and the occult.

A significant aspect of Levenda's bibliography relates to the "Necronomicon," a fictional text created by H.P. Lovecraft. Levenda authored "Dead Names: The Dark History of the Necronomicon," which explores the lore and influence of this invented grimoire. Furthermore, he is associated with the "Simon Necronomicon," a real-world book presented as an ancient magical text. While author Alan Cabal identified Levenda as the pseudonymous author "Simon," and copyright records support this, Levenda has denied this attribution. This association highlights Levenda's engagement with the complex relationship between fictional mythos and real-world occult practices, particularly concerning the Necronomicon.

Beyond his work on Nazi occultism and the Necronomicon, Peter Levenda's writings encompass a broad spectrum of esoteric and historical subjects. He has explored themes such as Chinese alchemy, Jewish Kabbalah, and their potential connections in "Stairway to Heaven." His research also extends to the founding of America through the lens of Masonic mysteries in "The Secret Temple." Levenda has delved into Tantric traditions in Java and India, as well as the influence of figures like H.P. Lovecraft and Kenneth Grant on magical traditions. His "Sinister Forces" series investigates what he terms "American Political Witchcraft," suggesting occult underpinnings in political events. Additionally, he has written on the disappearance of Adolf Hitler and the enduring threat of neo-Nazi movements.