❓
Questions and Answers
Find answers to the most popular questions about our products — 297152 questions total
All
Alchemy & Hermeticism
Astrology & Cosmology
Divination & Tarot
Kabbalah & Jewish Mysticism
Magic & Ritual
Mysticism & Contemplation
Occult Philosophy
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
Witchcraft & Paganism
Freemasonry & Secret Societies
Spiritualism & Afterlife
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
Supernatural & Occult Fiction
Spiritual Development
Esoteric History & Biography
Does the book focus on famous mediums or everyday practitioners?
The book primarily focuses on the everyday practitioners and residents of Lily Dale, offering an intimate look at their lives, beliefs, and the community's functioning rather than concentrating on cel...
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
What sociological insights does *Lily Dale* offer?
Wicker's work provides insights into the sociology of belief, community formation around shared spiritual practices, and the adaptive strategies of minority religious groups in the United States, part...
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
How does the book address the historical context of Spiritualism?
The book contextualizes Lily Dale within the broader history of the Spiritualist movement, which gained significant momentum in the United States after 1848, exploring how its traditions adapted and p...
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
What is the primary focus of Christine Wicker's book "Lily Dale"?
The book primarily focuses on the spiritualist community in Lily Dale, New York, exploring the daily lives, beliefs, and practices of mediums and those who seek their services.
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
When was "Lily Dale" first published?
Christine Wicker's "Lily Dale" was first published in 2003, offering a contemporary look at the spiritualist village.
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
What historical movement is Lily Dale associated with?
Lily Dale is strongly associated with the American spiritualism movement, which gained significant popularity in the mid-19th century following events in 1848.
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
Does the book present a critical or empathetic view of spiritualism?
Wicker adopts an ethnographic and generally empathetic approach, detailing the community's practices and beliefs without overt judgment, while still presenting factual observations.
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
Who would benefit most from reading "Lily Dale"?
Readers interested in American religious history, parapsychology, sociology of belief, and the cultural persistence of spiritualism would find this book particularly informative.
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
What is 'evidential mediumship' as discussed in the book?
Evidential mediumship refers to the practice where mediums aim to provide specific, verifiable details from departed spirits to clients, serving as proof of spirit communication.
📦 Lily Dale
Occult Philosophy
When was Flower Remedies by Christine Wildwood first published?
Flower Remedies by Christine Wildwood was first published in 1992, contributing to the discourse on floral essences in the late 20th century.
📦 Flower Remedies
Occult Philosophy
What is the core principle behind flower remedies as described in the book?
The core principle is that flowers possess unique vibrational frequencies that can harmonize human emotional and mental states, promoting well-being.
📦 Flower Remedies
Occult Philosophy
Are there specific preparation methods discussed for flower essences?
Yes, the book details traditional methods such as sun-infusion and boiling for capturing the energetic properties of flowers into potent essences.
📦 Flower Remedies
Occult Philosophy
Does the book reference Edward Bach's work?
While not directly quoting Bach, the book builds upon the lineage of floral healing popularized by Edward Bach in the 1930s, offering a complementary perspective.
📦 Flower Remedies
Occult Philosophy
What does the concept of 'signature' refer to in Flower Remedies?
The 'signature' refers to the idea that a plant's physical form, color, or habitat can symbolically indicate its therapeutic use for specific emotional or mental conditions.
📦 Flower Remedies
Occult Philosophy
Is this book suitable for beginners in holistic health?
Yes, it is suitable for beginners interested in natural healing and botanical therapies, providing a foundational understanding of floral essences.
📦 Flower Remedies
Occult Philosophy
What is the main difference between historical Druids and modern interpretations?
Worthington's "Druids" focuses on the evidence from antiquity, presenting them as learned societal figures in Iron Age Europe, distinct from the neopagan spiritual paths that draw inspiration from the...
📦 Druids
Occult Philosophy
What primary sources does the book rely on for information about Druids?
The book frequently references accounts from Roman writers like Julius Caesar and Strabo, alongside archaeological findings, to piece together the historical Druidic role.
📦 Druids
Occult Philosophy
When was Christine Worthington's 'Druids' first published?
Christine Worthington's "Druids" was first published in 1999, offering a contemporary academic perspective on the ancient Celtic priesthood.
📦 Druids
Occult Philosophy
Does the book discuss Druidic magic or rituals?
While acknowledging potential ritualistic aspects and divination, the book emphasizes the documented societal functions like law and education over speculative magical practices.
📦 Druids
Occult Philosophy
Is this book suitable for beginners interested in Celtic spirituality?
It is best suited for those seeking a historical and academic understanding. Beginners in Celtic spirituality might find it too focused on factual reconstruction rather than lived practice.
📦 Druids
Occult Philosophy
How does the book address the lack of written records from the Druids themselves?
Worthington critically analyzes the challenge of limited primary sources, relying on interpretations of archaeological data and the often biased accounts of external observers like the Romans.
📦 Druids
Occult Philosophy
What are the primary components of the Egyptian soul discussed in the book?
The book identifies several key components of the soul, notably the Ka (life force or spiritual double) and the Ba (personality or aspect that could travel between the tomb and the world of the living...
📦 Mummies, myth and magic in ancient Egypt
Magic & Ritual
When were the Pyramid Texts first inscribed?
The Pyramid Texts, a significant source for understanding Egyptian afterlife beliefs, were first inscribed in the pyramids of pharaohs during the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties, dating back to around 2400-...
📦 Mummies, myth and magic in ancient Egypt
Magic & Ritual
What was the purpose of the Opening of the Mouth ceremony?
This ritual, performed on mummies and statues, was believed to magically restore the senses and abilities of the deceased, allowing them to eat, speak, and function in the afterlife.
📦 Mummies, myth and magic in ancient Egypt
Magic & Ritual
Which pharaoh is associated with early developments in mummification techniques?
While techniques evolved over millennia, early advancements are often linked to the Old Kingdom rulers, with gradual improvements seen through successive dynasties.
📦 Mummies, myth and magic in ancient Egypt
Magic & Ritual
Does the book discuss the historical period of Akhenaten's religious revolution?
While the focus is on traditional funerary beliefs, the book may reference periods of religious upheaval to highlight the enduring nature of core Egyptian concepts concerning death and rebirth.
📦 Mummies, myth and magic in ancient Egypt
Magic & Ritual
What is the significance of the djed pillar symbol?
The djed pillar, a recurring motif, symbolizes stability and endurance, often associated with the god Osiris and the promise of resurrection and eternal life.
📦 Mummies, myth and magic in ancient Egypt
Magic & Ritual
When was 'Karma und Wiedergeburt' originally published?
The book 'Karma und Wiedergeburt' by Christmas Humphreys was first published in 1980. This edition aimed to consolidate and explain core Eastern concepts for a Western audience.
📦 Karma und Wiedergeburt
Occult Philosophy
What is the primary focus of Christmas Humphreys' book on karma?
The primary focus is a systematic explanation of the laws of karma and rebirth, detailing how actions and intentions influence the cycle of existence (*samsara*) and future lives.
📦 Karma und Wiedergeburt
Occult Philosophy
Does the book discuss the concept of a soul in relation to rebirth?
Yes, the book addresses the concept of rebirth within the context of Buddhist teachings, often contrasting it with the doctrine of *anatta* (no-self), which posits the absence of a permanent, unchangi...
📦 Karma und Wiedergeburt
Occult Philosophy
Who is Christmas Humphreys?
Christmas Humphreys (1901-1983) was an English lawyer, judge, and prominent figure in introducing Buddhist philosophy to the West, particularly through his founding of the Buddhist Society in London.
📦 Karma und Wiedergeburt
Occult Philosophy
What is 'samsara' as explained in the book?
'Samsara' is explained as the cyclical process of birth, death, and rebirth, driven by karma and characterized by suffering (*dukkha*), from which liberation (*nirvana*) is sought.
📦 Karma und Wiedergeburt
Occult Philosophy
Is this book suitable for beginners in Eastern philosophy?
While comprehensive, the book's systematic approach makes it suitable for dedicated beginners seeking a structured understanding of karma and rebirth, particularly those interested in its philosophica...
📦 Karma und Wiedergeburt
Occult Philosophy
What is the core philosophy presented in 'Studies in the Middle Way'?
The book centers on the Buddhist concept of the 'Middle Way,' which Humphreys interprets as a path avoiding extremes in thought and action, promoting balance and moderation for spiritual development.
📦 Studies in the middle way
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
When was 'Studies in the Middle Way' first published?
The book was first published in 1984, reflecting a significant period of Western engagement with Eastern spiritual traditions.
📦 Studies in the middle way
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
Who was Christmas Humphreys and why is he important?
Christmas Humphreys was a British judge and a key figure in introducing Buddhism to the West, serving as President of the Buddhist Society for many years.
📦 Studies in the middle way
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
Does the book discuss Buddhist meditation?
Yes, 'Studies in the Middle Way' touches upon meditation and mindfulness as practical tools for cultivating wisdom and understanding, essential components of the Middle Way path.
📦 Studies in the middle way
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
Is this book suitable for absolute beginners to Buddhism?
Yes, Humphreys' clear exposition aims to make complex Buddhist concepts accessible to those new to the subject, particularly those with a Western philosophical background.
📦 Studies in the middle way
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
What is the significance of the term 'Anatta' as discussed in the book?
'Anatta,' or non-self, is a core Buddhist doctrine explored in the book, questioning the existence of a permanent, unchanging self or soul.
📦 Studies in the middle way
Theosophy & Anthroposophy
What is the earliest school of Buddhism discussed in Exploring Buddhism?
The book identifies Theravada as the oldest school of Buddhism. It highlights Theravada's magnificent moral philosophy as a distinct path within the broader Buddhist tradition.
📦 Exploring Buddhism
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
What is the Mahayana emphasis mentioned in the book?
The Mahayana emphasis discussed is on compassion (karuna). This aspect is presented as a significant spiritual and ethical ideal within the Mahayana branch of Buddhism.
📦 Exploring Buddhism
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
What is the doctrine of 'No-self' as presented by Christmas Humphreys?
The doctrine of 'No-self' (anatta/anatman) refers to the Buddhist teaching that there is no permanent, unchanging, independent self or soul. The book explores this as a central tenet for spiritual lib...
📦 Exploring Buddhism
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
When was Exploring Buddhism first published?
Exploring Buddhism by Christmas Humphreys was first published on 2012-11-12, though its ideas have roots in earlier explorations of Buddhist philosophy.
📦 Exploring Buddhism
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
Does the book cover Zen Buddhism?
Yes, the book mentions Zen training of Japan as one of the specialized paths one may choose within the vast field of Buddhist knowledge.
📦 Exploring Buddhism
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
What is the main challenge in studying Buddhism according to the book?
The book suggests the main challenge is the vastness of the Buddhist field of knowledge, requiring individuals to choose specific areas for study and application due to the intense self-discipline nee...
📦 Exploring Buddhism
Sacred Texts & Gnosticism
When was Christmas Humphreys' 'Buddhism' first published?
Christmas Humphreys' "Buddhism" was first published in 1955. This mid-20th century release places it within a key period of Western engagement with Eastern spiritual traditions.
📦 Buddhism
Occult Philosophy
What are the core Buddhist concepts covered in this book?
The book covers fundamental concepts such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, karma, rebirth, anicca (impermanence), dukkha (suffering), and anatta (no-self).
📦 Buddhism
Occult Philosophy
Is 'Buddhism' by Christmas Humphreys suitable for beginners?
Yes, the book is designed as a comprehensive introduction, making complex doctrines accessible to readers new to Buddhist philosophy and practice.
📦 Buddhism
Occult Philosophy
What is the historical significance of this book's publication date?
Published in 1955, it reflects the growing Western interest in Eastern spirituality during the mid-20th century and contributed to the academic and popular understanding of Buddhism.
📦 Buddhism
Occult Philosophy
Does the book discuss the life of Siddhartha Gautama?
Yes, the work includes an exploration of the life of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, providing biographical context for the teachings.
📦 Buddhism
Occult Philosophy
