There are books that you open – and there are books that transport you. Aleister Crowley in India is firmly in the latter category. In this masterful work, Tobias Churton takes the often-mysterious life of Aleister Crowley and places him in a vivid, unexpected context: the Indian subcontinent and its spiritual traditions. Far from being a tangent in Crowley’s life, this segment of his journey becomes the keystone in understanding how Eastern mysticism — yoga, Vedanta, Buddhism — informed his Western magickal experiments.
Previously unseen material. Churton opens archival diaries and lesser-known records of Crowley’s time in India, Sri Lanka and Burma from 1901-1906, shedding new light on a chapter often glossed over.
A bridging of East and Occult. This isn’t merely a biographical detour — the book shows how Crowley’s immersion in jnâna-yoga, Tantric philosophy and Buddhist dhyâna deeply coloured his later magical system.
Narrative + scholarship. Churton weaves travel-ogue, spiritual odyssey and rigorous historical context — set against colonial India, early Theosophy, and the Himalayas. The journey is as captivating as the subject.
A reflection on legacy. Crowley is no mere occult celebrity here — he becomes a mirror reflecting Western fascination with Eastern wisdom, and the cultural forces that blended Buddhism, yoga and magic in the early 20th century.
Key Themes & Takeaways
Transformation through place. India isn’t just a backdrop — Crowley’s time in the Subcontinent becomes transformative, forcing him to confront spiritual practice, ascetic discipline, and the limits of Western esoteric assumptions.
The cross-pollination of traditions. The text deftly shows Crowley absorbing Vedantist, Tantric and Buddhist threads, synthesizing them within his own system of Thelema and Western ceremonial magic.
Mysticism meets mountaineering. Fun fact: Crowley’s Himalayan expeditions (e.g., K2/Kangchenjunga) intersect with his spiritual quest — Churton explores this convergence of physical and metaphysical ascension.
Inner work as outer journey. The diaries and experiences documented reveal Crowley’s struggle with malaria, big game hunting, mystic trances, and the tension between spectacle and sincere practice. The result: we witness not simply the “Great Beast” headline, but a human in search of communion.
A cautionary mirror. While rich in insight, the book also reminds us of the complexity, hubris and controversy inherent in Crowley’s figure — and invites reflection on how we engage with spiritual tradition today.
What Works — and What Might You Want to Be Aware Of
Strengths:
Rich, well-researched detail: Churton has clearly scoured archives and delivers new content even for seasoned Crowley watchers.
Engaging storytelling: The journey is vivid, with travel-scenes, mystical awakenings, and archival voices making the past feel alive.
Deep context: The book does not simply celebrate Crowley, but locates him within cultural, spiritual, colonial and esoteric frameworks.
Considerations:
Dense sections: Some chapters dive deep into yogic terminology, Hindu philosophical concepts or archival minutiae — readers unfamiliar with spiritual/esoteric vocabulary may need to slow down.
Crowley’s polarising figure: This is not a purely hagiographic biography; Crowley’s controversies, excesses and contradictions are present. If you expect a simple hero-story, you may find the nuance challenging.
Focused scope: Because the book zooms in on 1901–1906 and Eastern influence, those wanting a full Crowley biography may still want to supplement with more general works.
Aleister Crowley
Why I Recommend It
If you are interested in spiritual synthesis, the intersection of East and West, or the hidden roots of modern occultism, Aleister Crowley in India will electrify your mind. It changes the way we understand Crowley’s “Beast” persona — not as an isolated provocateur, but as a traveler in search of transcendence, a conduit between Himalayan yoga traditions and Western magical systems.
For anyone building a library on esoterica, yoga history, mysticism, or the cultural transplantation of spiritual practice, this book stands out as essential reading. I found myself scribbling notes, pausing to research yogic terms, and reflecting on how the East-West spiritual bridge remains alive today.
Get your own copy!
Ready to dive into this remarkable journey? Click the link below to purchase Aleister Crowley in India on Amazon and start exploring one of the most fascinating crossroads in spiritual history:
Don’t just read about magic — step into a story where the Himalayas, yogis, colonial India and Western occultism converge.
Whether you come for the occult intrigue, the yogic depth, or the biography of a boundary-breaking icon, Aleister Crowley in India delivers. Tobias Churton invites you on a voyage — one where the map of spiritual history expands, and where the “Great Beast 666” becomes something far more layered: seeker, ascetic, explorer, hybrid.
If you finish the final page and find your world a little wider — your questions a little deeper — then this book has done its work. I highly recommend it for anyone ready to venture beyond the familiar, into the wild meeting ground of East and Occult.
Happy reading… and may your Will truly meet your True Will.
Aleister Crowley as Hindu Monk
𓋹 𓋹 𓋹
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
Journey of Awakening is more than a meditation manual—it’s a heartfelt invitation into the inner realms of consciousness, compassion, and self-realization, offered by one of the most influential spiritual teachers of the 20th century, Ram Dass.
Originally published in 1978, this book serves as both a practical guide and a spiritual companion for those seeking to deepen their meditation practice and spiritual journey. What sets this book apart is Ram Dass’s unique voice—gentle yet incisive, mystical yet grounded, humorous yet profound. His years of spiritual seeking, from psychology professor Richard Alpert to his transformation under Neem Karoli Baba in India, echo through every page.
Journey of Awakening by Ram Dass
The structure of the book flows naturally from foundational concepts to more esoteric realms. Dass explores various meditation paths—mantra, breath, visualization, mindfulness, devotional practices—without privileging one over the other. He honors the diversity of spiritual temperaments, recognizing that the journey is deeply personal and nonlinear. Each practice is presented with clarity, humility, and an understanding of the obstacles that modern seekers face.
One of the most compelling aspects of Journey of Awakening is its emphasis on meditation not merely as a technique but as a way of being. Ram Dass constantly reminds the reader that awakening is not about acquiring something new, but remembering what we already are—pure awareness, beyond ego and illusion. His insights on the “witness” state and the traps of spiritual materialism are especially poignant for Western audiences.
Throughout, the book is rich with quotes from mystics, sages, and scriptures of various traditions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Sufism—making it a tapestry of global spiritual wisdom. Yet Ram Dass weaves them together with his own deeply personal experiences, making the journey feel intimate and real.
This book doesn’t demand belief or dogma. Instead, it invites exploration, reflection, and surrender. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a long-time practitioner, Journey of Awakening offers a mirror for your own path and a reminder to approach the inner world with patience, love, and openness.
Verdict: A timeless and compassionate guide for anyone on the spiritual path. Journey of Awakening is not just a book you read—it’s a companion you return to again and again, each time discovering new depths. Profoundly human, beautifully written, and infused with quiet wisdom, it remains one of Ram Dass’s most accessible and enduring works.
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
In the quiet stillness of Mount Kailash, Shiva sat in deep meditation. His eyes half-closed, his breath slow and steady, he let the universe swirl around him like a river. Time did not exist for the god of destruction; moments were infinite, and every inhale connected him to the essence of all that is.
But one day, a gentle breeze carried the scent of something wild and earthy. Shiva opened his eyes and followed it, curious. Beneath a tall, ancient tree, he found a plant with vibrant green leaves that seemed to hum with life. He plucked a leaf, rolled it between his fingers, and smiled—a knowing smile, as though recognizing an old friend. This was no ordinary plant; it was a gift of the earth herself, born to calm storms and awaken the soul.
As Shiva lit the leaf, he felt its smoke rise into his lungs, spreading like a warm river of peace. His mind expanded, his body softened, and the weight of the cosmos lifted from his shoulders. In that moment, he felt deeply connected—not only to the universe but to the beauty and simplicity of life itself. The plant brought him clarity, a profound stillness beyond thought and words. It wasn’t an escape but an opening, a doorway into the infinite.
From that day on, Shiva embraced the plant as a companion during his meditations. He loved it not for indulgence but for the way it aligned his body and spirit, helping him dance between the realms of existence and nothingness. It reminded him of his true nature—wild, free, and unshackled by time.
The gods watched in awe, puzzled by Shiva’s fondness for this humble plant. Some whispered that it was strange for a deity to love such earthly things. But Shiva only laughed, the kind of deep, booming laugh that echoes across creation.
“Ganja,” he said, “is a gift for those who seek peace within chaos. It quiets the noise of the world and awakens the truth hidden in the heart.”
And so, Shiva became the protector of the sacred plant, sharing it with wandering sadhus and seekers of the soul. To this day, in the forests and mountains, in the hearts of those who seek, Shiva’s breath lingers in every curl of smoke—a reminder that even the simplest things can carry the universe within them.
Shiva Sadhu Smoking Ganja
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
Anodea Judith’s Wheels of Life is an insightful and thorough exploration of the chakra system, blending ancient wisdom with modern psychology, metaphysics, and spiritual philosophy. As one of the most comprehensive books on the subject, it serves as both an introduction for beginners and a valuable resource for those with more experience in energy work.
Judith meticulously examines the seven main chakras, detailing their physical, emotional, and spiritual significance. She explains how imbalances in these energy centers can manifest in various aspects of life, offering practical exercises, meditations, and visualizations to help readers restore harmony. Her approach is both scientific and mystical, making the book accessible to a broad audience—from those interested in yoga and meditation to individuals exploring holistic healing.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its integration of psychological insights with spiritual concepts. Judith connects chakra imbalances to emotional and behavioral patterns, drawing from Jungian psychology and personal development theories. This holistic approach makes Wheels of Life not just a guide to chakras but also a roadmap for self-discovery and transformation.
While deeply informative, the book’s depth and detail may feel overwhelming to some readers, particularly those new to the subject. However, Judith’s clear writing and structured presentation make the information digestible, even when covering complex topics.
Overall, Wheels of Life is a must-read for anyone interested in energy healing, personal growth, or spiritual awakening. Its blend of wisdom, practical exercises, and insightful analysis makes it one of the most definitive books on the chakra system.
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and Gnosis, and to connect deeper with a circle of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
Dhanvantari is a revered deity in the Vedic tradition and Hinduism, known as the God of Ayurveda and the divine physician. He is considered an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, emerging from the churning of the ocean of milk (Samudra Manthan), holding the pot of amrita (the nectar of immortality). His appearance is symbolic of health, healing, and longevity.
Dhanvantari is often depicted with four hands, carrying a pot of amrita, a leech, a conch shell, and a discus (chakra), symbolizing his association with medicine, healing, and divine powers.
He is worshipped as the patron of medicine and health, and practitioners of Ayurveda revere him as their guiding deity. His blessings are invoked for physical and spiritual well-being, and his birthday is celebrated as Dhanteras, a day during the festival of Diwali dedicated to health and prosperity.
In essence, Dhanvantari represents the divine connection between spirituality, medicine, and the preservation of life.
Sri Dhanvantari
One of the most popular mantras dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari is used to invoke his blessings for healing and well-being. It is known as the Dhanvantari Mantra:
“I bow to Lord Dhanvantari, who holds a conch, discus, leech, and the nectar of immortality in his graceful hands. His presence removes all ailments and grants health, vitality, and longevity.”
Short Healing Mantra:
For simplicity, many also chant:
ॐ श्री धन्वन्तरये नमः Om Shree Dhanvantariye Namaha
Purpose of Chanting:
To seek health, healing, and protection from diseases.
To enhance vitality and energy.
To connect with the divine energy of Ayurveda and holistic healing.
Regular chanting of these mantras is believed to promote physical and spiritual well-being.
Sakshi Zion singing the devotional chant to the Divine Mother for the Sunday Service at New Thought Center of Hawaii. Amba Bhavani means Mother full of Love & Jaya Jagadambe meaning Victory to the Mother of the Universe.
Amba Bhavani Kirtan by Sakshi Zion
The chant “Amba Bhavani Jaya Jagadambe” is a devotional hymn to the Divine Mother, often associated with Durga, Kali, or other forms of Shakti. This chant invokes the Divine Feminine as Amba Bhavani (Mother Bhavani, the sustainer of existence) and Jagadambe (Mother of the Universe), celebrating her victory and nurturing presence.
A literal translation of the chant is:
Amba: Mother Bhavani: The consort of Lord Bhava (Shiva) or the one who gives existence Jaya: Victory or glory Jagadambe: Mother of the Universe
Thus, the chant can be translated as: “Glory to Mother Bhavani, Victory to the Mother of the Universe.”
For initiates on the spiritual path, this chant holds layers of symbolic and mystical meaning:
Amba Bhavani represents the Divine Feminine as the force of creation, nurturing, and sustenance. Chanting her name calls forth the primal energy (Shakti) within oneself, awakening the Kundalini.
Jaya signifies triumph over the ego and ignorance, urging the aspirant to seek victory over the inner battles that veil self-realization.
Jagadambe acknowledges the universality of the Divine Mother, reminding the initiate that all beings and elements of creation are manifestations of her energy.
By chanting these sacred names, the aspirant aligns their inner being with the cosmic rhythm, invoking divine grace for transformation, protection, and spiritual liberation.
Jagadambe (Mother of the Universe)
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
Govinda Jaya Jaya & Hare Krishna Kirtan by Sakshi Zion & friends at last years (2023) annual Interfaith Concert at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Kona, Hawaii.
Joining me was Karmic Atese (vocals), Triona (vocals), Kaimalu (keys) & Krishna Chaitanya (mridanga) it was a beautiful experience!
The mantra Govinda Jaya Jaya translates to “Govinda (another name for Krishna), glory, glory.” It celebrates the divine qualities of Lord Krishna, often revered as the embodiment of love, compassion, and joy. This mantra is a cornerstone of Kirtan, a devotional practice originating in the Bhakti Yoga tradition, which seeks to connect with the divine through collective singing.
Similarly, the Hare Krishna Maha Mantra—“Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare”—is a profound invocation of divine energy, calling upon Krishna and Rama as aspects of the supreme consciousness. Both mantras are imbued with spiritual power, as their vibrations are said to awaken the soul’s innate connection with the divine, purify the heart, and instill bliss and tranquility in the practitioner.
In Kirtan, these mantras create a communal spiritual resonance, uplifting participants into a shared state of devotion and transcendence.
Sri Krishna Govinda
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
Om Mata Kali Kirtan by Sakshi Zion & friends at last years (2023) annual Interfaith Concert at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Kona, Hawaii.
Joining me was Karmic Atese (vocals), Triona (vocals), Kaimalu Harmon (keys) & Krishna Chaitanya (mridanga) it was a beautiful experience!
Translation:
“Om Mata Kali”: “Salutations to Mother Kali,” invoking the cosmic mother in her fierce and transformative form.
“Jai Maa”: “Victory to the Mother,” a cry of devotion and celebration of the Divine Feminine.
“Sri Maa”: “Holy Mother” or “Revered Mother,” an acknowledgment of the sacred and nurturing presence of the universal mother.
Mystical Interpretation:
These mantras honor the Divine Mother in her various forms, particularly as Kali, the fierce yet compassionate force of transformation and liberation. “Om Mata Kali” invokes her energy to destroy ignorance, fear, and ego, paving the way for spiritual rebirth. “Jai Maa” is a heartfelt declaration of surrender and gratitude, celebrating her infinite power and grace. “Sri Maa” reveres her as the source of all creation and nurturance, reminding the chanter of her protective, loving presence. Together, these mantras call forth the Divine Mother’s power to guide, protect, and transform the devotee on their spiritual journey.
Blessings and Strength to Interfaith Ecumenical dialogue that continues to inspire and bridge the gaps and divides of religions and politics by bringing more knowledge and unity to our communities and world!
Knowing we are All One ☝️ One Love One Heart One God One Aim One Destiny 💓
Kali Maa
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
Jaya Ganesha Kirtan by Sakshi Zion & friends at last years (2023) annual Interfaith Concert at the Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity in Kona, Hawaii.
Joining me was Karmic Atese (vocals), Triona (vocals), Kaimalu (keys) & Krishna Chaitanya (mridanga) it was a beautiful experience!
Translation:
“Jaya Ganesha”: “Victory to Ganesha” or “Hail Lord Ganesha.” It is an invocation of praise, celebrating Ganesha’s triumph over obstacles and his divine wisdom.
“Ganesha Sharanam”: “I take refuge in Ganesha” or “Ganesha is my sanctuary.” This expresses surrender and trust in Ganesha’s guidance and protection.
Mystical Interpretation:
These mantras invoke the energy of Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the harbinger of new beginnings. Chanting “Jaya Ganesha” connects the chanter to divine strength, invoking the power to overcome challenges with grace. “Ganesha Sharanam” represents a surrender of ego and trust in the higher intelligence of the universe, symbolized by Ganesha. Together, the mantras serve as a spiritual tool to dissolve inner and outer barriers, align with divine will, and invite clarity, wisdom, and protection on the seeker’s path.
Blessings and Strength to Interfaith Ecumenical dialogue that continues to inspire and bridge the gaps and divides of religions and politics by bringing more knowledge and unity to our communities and world!
Knowing we are All One ☝️ One Love One Heart One God One Aim One Destiny 💓
Sri Ganesha
Thanks for visiting my blog! To learn more about this Esoteric Wisdom and to start your own journey with a team of like-minded and inspired Wisdom Seekers, forging a way to make the world a better place for all, just like you…
Click here & listen to our Daily Mastermind Call (recorded live Mon-Fri) & also I invite you to work directly with me. I’m here to help! Send me a message to discuss your interests and questions.
~Sakshi Zion
Life Coach, Entrepreneur, Social Media Expert, Musician, Yoga Teacher, World Traveler
