Syzygy: Reflections on the Monastery of the Seven Rays

by Tau Palamas

The two worlds of Voudon and Gnosis merged together within the unique expression of a religious community called the Monastery of the Seven Rays. Having a history that is as colorful and mysterious as the variety of individuals involved in this esoteric movement of the spirit, the Monastery stands apart from traditional expressions of monasticism in the East and in the West by existing on a physical plane, but more especially by also being a psycho-spiritual locale, accessible to all who knock upon her celestial doors. For each Postulant of this Monastery there is a particular work to do, a particular Gnostic space to dwell within, and a particular sacred injunction to fulfill for the betterment of the globe. SYZYGY by Tau Palamas is one such legacy. It is simply the reflections of one student of this delightful and challenging superstructure of mind-stuff--The Monastery of the Seven Rays.  "This true Labor of Love offers one of the best introductions to our School and Work that we've read. From the curious seeker to the seasoned Pilgrim on the Path, there is guidance and illumination in this volume which will speak time and again to the deepest levels of spiritual longing...With gratitude to Tau Palamas, we whole heartedly recommend SYZYGY as one of the best books of the year!" -- Kyle Fite , SGM, Ordo Templi Orientis Antiqua & La Couleuvre Noire "A wonderful exposition and elaboration of the Monastery of Seven Rays material through the eyes of a true modern-day Christian mystic! I highly recommend it to anyone studying the work of Michael Bertiaux, but the Opus stands alone in that you could create a system of Work from this book alone! For those interested in Martinism and Ecclesiastical Gnosticism this book is also of great value, and certainly compliments the work of L'Ordre Martinesiste de Chenu (it is on the reading list)! Highly recommended!"--  Kevin Davis , Sov. Insp. V°, Ordre Martinesiste de Chenu

Genres: Nonfiction

264 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this beautiful book +Palamas offers the interested reader a full philosophy of occult practice and the practice itself with ties to Bertiaux Voudon Gnosis which is obviously his esoteric home, so to speak, and monastic life and practice on the other side. This makes for a beautiful, contemplative and quiet daily routine which I defenitely will incorporate at least partially in my own routine.

2nd edition:
When I read Syzygy the first time I found the idea of a monastic curriculum, a monastic life based on some key notions and to connect it to magical practice, very interesting. When reading the second edition, however, I notice how much this is actually integrated into the magical model of Berthiaux and the Monastery of Seven Rays. In this sense, the book is still recommendable for those who are interested in a more devotional and spiritual practice, being integrated into a Western vocabulary, into a clerical vocabulary. At the same time, however, it is certainly especially important and relevant for those who are familiar with Berthiaux's work or want to be familiar with it. For those it certainly offers a unique experience and access to Berthiaux's often very cryptic work.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tau Palamas has a unique writing style that manages to be conversational, authoritative, captivating, and creative all at the same time.
The original oil pastel astral icons that are generously placed throughout Syzygy are inspiring and provide the perfect visual balance to the writing of Tau Palamas. It is easy to see that this author and artist works from a place of pure heartfelt passion.
I highly recommend this book and am excited to know that +Palamas has other books currently in the works. I will be anxiously awaiting his next publication, but in the meantime I'll continue to enjoy Syzygy. I can honestly say that each time I pick up the book, I come away with some new awesome spiritual nugget.

[Drew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tau Palamas does a great job of making Michael Bertiuax's Monastery of the Seven Rays' work approachable. Anyone who is curious about Bertiuax's Voudon Gnostic Workbook, but found that text overwhelming, will find this title to be a good starting place for wading into the VGW waters before jumping off to the deep end. The first half deals with the metaphysics surrounding the Monastery of the Seven Rays current and the second half gives one some practical work to get started with it. The book definitely made me want to go back and re-evaluate Betiuax's work after having some better clarifications on these general topics.

[Jordan Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is in my top 10 favorite occult books because of the breadth of the material it encompasses. I like the fact that Tau Palamas not only talks about the Monastery of the 7 Rays and the Voudon Gnostic Workbook; but, he also ties his personal practice of Christian Mysticism into the picture. It gives a full unbiased perspective of Metaphysics and is a treasure trove of information. It is a book that I could reread many times over. Apparently a 2nd edition should be coming out soon with even more info. If you get a chance; get this little tome, and I promise you will not be sorry.