Magic: White and Black: The Science of Finite and Infinite Life

by Franz Hartmann

This book was originally written for the purpose of disenchanting certain credulous inquirers, who fancied that the exercise of spiritual powers could be taught by teaching them certain incantations and formulas. It was to prove that spiritual powers must be developed before they can be exercised, and to explain the conditions necessary for their development. Since the appearance of the previous edition, a little additional knowledge, gained by the experiences of my own inner life, has enabled me to make certain corrections; to sift out much of what was irrelevant, and to remodel a great deal of what was incorrectly expressed. Moreover in this edition an attempt has been made to answer the numerous questions which have been addressed to me by the readers of "Magic." The most serious objection which has been made against this book has been on account of its title; but the causes which induced me to select such a title were suggested by the purpose for which the book was intended; nor would I at present be able to find one more appropriate for it, for "Magic" means that divine art or exercise of spiritual power by which the awakened spirit in man controls the invisible living elements in the soul-substance of the universe; but, above all, those in his own soul, which are the ones nearest to him.

Genres: Magick, Spirituality, Magic, Occult

328 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1886

About the author

Franz Hartmann was a German medical doctor, theosophist, occultist, geomancer, astrologer, and author.

Reviews

[JessIca]

Humbled

[Jesse]

just jumping into the occult and this has been the clearest explanation so far. I appreciate most positions come from nature itself and really can't be argued, but I do wish the more extreme arguments had at least some anecdotal evidence behind them. The furthest given is "there have been cases of..." but no step-by-step leading to any sort of explanation. It's another leaping point for faith. It's also very spooky, giving specific details of how to at least try and have influence metaphysically, although at each explanation it includes why you wouldn't want to try such 'magic.' I don't know, weird realm, weird book, very mind and soul expanding.

[David]

Part of the Richard Rose reading list. As incomprehensible as expected.

[Fragiskos Kritikos]

Εξαιρετικός συνδυασμός φιλοσοφίας και μεταφυσικής.

[Diana Thoresen]

A perfect classic for any Seeker...

[CA Ram Melam]

An amazing book on spirituality, and mystical journey of human life. I really like reading this book once more

[Erato Lilith]

Perfecto libro para iniciar estudios en el esoterismo práctico. Un lenguaje cuidadosamente claro y super vigente. El mejor prefacio e introducción para cualquier interesado en las ciencias ocultas.

[Amira Eissa]

Meh :/

[Nirmal]

The book was published in 1904 not 1961. The content is a mix of Eastern and Western religion on the way a man should live by realizing and practicing good. The words flow from the author continuously so you can start reading from any section without loosing the meaning.

[Eonkenshi]

In short, if you are interested in any kind of magic, read it. Blew my mind away!

[Kinga Fasil]

Pleaase i want to this particular book

[Valentino]

Read

This is simply a must read book. It will be a reference for years to come. Take the time a properly read this book. Of great value to any seeking ways to obtain and realize the truth.