The Idyll of the White Lotus: With Commentary by T. Subba Row

by Mabel Collins, T. Subba Row (Commentary)

The Idyll of the White Lotus is a mystical and symbolic novel by theosophist Mabel Collins (M.C.). The story may be symbolic on many levels, the most common interpretation being an analogy of the human soul and its development. T. Subba Row, whose commentary is includede in an appendix, also suggests that it is likely based on a true story. According to him, the story "truly depicts the Egyptian faith and the Egyptian priesthood, when their religion had already begun to lose its purity and [had] degenerated . . . [being] unscrupulously used for selfish and immoral purposes." Sensa (the hero of the story) is represented to be the last great hierophant of Egypt. Thus, for those interested in a theosophical view of ancient Egypt, this novel will also hold additional interest. The story is, however, primarily meant as a teaching tool for the would-be mystic. From the Preface: "The ensuing pages contain a story which has been told in all ages and among every people. It is the tragedy of the Soul. Attracted by Desire, the ruling element in the lower nature of Man, it stoops to sin; brought to itself by suffering, it turns for help to the redeeming Spirit within; and in the final sacrifice achieves its apotheosis and sheds a blessing on mankind."

Genres: Fiction, Fantasy

98 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

About the author

Mabel Collins was born in St Peter Port, Guernsey. She was a writer of popular occult novels, a fashion writer and an anti-vivisection campaigner. According to Vittoria Cremers, as related by Aleister Crowley, Collins was at one time being romantically pursued by both Cremers and alleged occultist Robert D'Onston Stephenson. Cremers claimed that during this time she found five bload-soaked ties in a trunk under Stephenson's bed, corresponding to the five murders committed in Whitechapel by Jack the Ripper. Stephenson is no longer a candidate as being Jack the Ripper due to the efforts of competent, modern researchers. However, Stephenson was a rival with Cremers for Collins' affections, and this account cannot be independently confirmed

Reviews

[Neeramitra Reddy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nowhere as Being-joltingly awe-inspiringly Powerful as Light On The Path, but this is an elegant and beautiful read with its own profound lessons to offer...

It's a masterful interweaving of the danger of falling prey to the wrong God(dess), forgetting the Light of the True God(dess) - AND the beautiful hope/retribution that the Light can always be chosen, with opportunities for the same constantly arising.

Mabel's magic is as present in this as Light On The Path - even if not as Powerful. Sensa's story and ending is as soul-inspiring as it can get.

[Tanz Oz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Substantial hidden meaning for those in the occult.

[Hayes · Rating 3 out of 5]

A 50 cent book from Greerton op-shop. Very religious, didn’t hate it though.