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A Treatise on White Magic: The Way of the Disciple
Throughout the whole of this series of books runs a single thread uniting various aspects of life and specialised activities within the Plan for man. This is the thread of consciousness, evolving in man through the efforts of the soul to contact and control its personality equipment; and evolving within the planet as the centre Hierarchy becomes increasingly able to impress the Plan on the minds of men.
This book, therefore, contains the Fifteen Rules for Magic, and for soul control, based on these words in the "Though I am Unborn, the Soul that passes not away, though I am the Lord of Being, yet as Lord over My nature I become manifest, through the magical power of the Soul."
The soul unmanifest in its essential being, manifest through the nature of its personality equipment, is always a source of mystery. It evades the analytical concrete it reveals its true self to the illumined mind fused with the open heart, seeking not to grasp and to hold for personal progress, but to wield the magical power in service. The power of the soul is always available to the one who seeks, as an aspirant to accepted discipleship, to become of practical service in his own peculiar times, state and environment.
The teaching in this book is based on four fundamental postulates which
Through these underlying postulates runs the theme of energy, of the one informing life as a centre of energy, pervading and uniting all within the divine flow. Man is essentially and inherently divine; and the soul, the centre of consciousness, the result of the pervasive union of Spirit with matter, is the means whereby man evolves a consciousness of divinity and unity, redeems the gross matter of his vehicles and liberates the pure flame of life energy from the limitation of form. The soul is the vital link, therefore, between God and man.
The book closes with a rousing call to the soul in all "I close with an appeal to all who read these instructions, to rally their forces, to renew their vows of dedication to the service of humanity, to subordinate their own ideas and wishes to the group good, to take their eyes off themselves and fix them anew upon the vision, . . . Let all students make up their minds in this day of emergency and of opportunity to sacrifice all they have to the helping of humanity. . . . I call upon all of you to join the strenuous efforts of the Great Ones."
This book, therefore, contains the Fifteen Rules for Magic, and for soul control, based on these words in the "Though I am Unborn, the Soul that passes not away, though I am the Lord of Being, yet as Lord over My nature I become manifest, through the magical power of the Soul."
The soul unmanifest in its essential being, manifest through the nature of its personality equipment, is always a source of mystery. It evades the analytical concrete it reveals its true self to the illumined mind fused with the open heart, seeking not to grasp and to hold for personal progress, but to wield the magical power in service. The power of the soul is always available to the one who seeks, as an aspirant to accepted discipleship, to become of practical service in his own peculiar times, state and environment.
The teaching in this book is based on four fundamental postulates which
Through these underlying postulates runs the theme of energy, of the one informing life as a centre of energy, pervading and uniting all within the divine flow. Man is essentially and inherently divine; and the soul, the centre of consciousness, the result of the pervasive union of Spirit with matter, is the means whereby man evolves a consciousness of divinity and unity, redeems the gross matter of his vehicles and liberates the pure flame of life energy from the limitation of form. The soul is the vital link, therefore, between God and man.
The book closes with a rousing call to the soul in all "I close with an appeal to all who read these instructions, to rally their forces, to renew their vows of dedication to the service of humanity, to subordinate their own ideas and wishes to the group good, to take their eyes off themselves and fix them anew upon the vision, . . . Let all students make up their minds in this day of emergency and of opportunity to sacrifice all they have to the helping of humanity. . . . I call upon all of you to join the strenuous efforts of the Great Ones."
705 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1934
122 people are currently reading
1223 people want to read
About the author
Alice A. Bailey
470 books226 followersPease note: this is a different author from Alice Bailey.
Alice A. Bailey (1880-1949) was an English esoteric practitioner and writer.
At the age of 35, she entered the Theosophical Society center in Los Angeles (USA), at the Pacific Grove Theosophical Lodge. In 1919, Bailey (39 years old) severed her ties to the Theosophical Society and began to write texts that he claimed were dictated telepathically by a certain "Tibetan," or "D. K. ». She published those texts under the title Human and Solar Initiation. There she made known the existence of the spiritual hierarchy, which Madame Blavatsky had already spread, although not in an orderly way.
She later revealed that the Tibetan D.K. was the master Djwal Khul. She wrote using the teacher's name for 30 years, from 1919 until her death in 1949.
Alice A. Bailey (1880-1949) was an English esoteric practitioner and writer.
At the age of 35, she entered the Theosophical Society center in Los Angeles (USA), at the Pacific Grove Theosophical Lodge. In 1919, Bailey (39 years old) severed her ties to the Theosophical Society and began to write texts that he claimed were dictated telepathically by a certain "Tibetan," or "D. K. ». She published those texts under the title Human and Solar Initiation. There she made known the existence of the spiritual hierarchy, which Madame Blavatsky had already spread, although not in an orderly way.
She later revealed that the Tibetan D.K. was the master Djwal Khul. She wrote using the teacher's name for 30 years, from 1919 until her death in 1949.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 8, 2012
After reading over 300 pages of this book I found myself wanting to understand it more clearly. So I decided to put it down and study the topics that are mentioned here. Now after reading books on Yoga, Meditation, Spirituality, Chakras, Astrology, Astronomy and even Metaphysics I feel ready for this book. I am exited to start it over again and wonder if its goning to be enough to fully comprehend it or if its going to guide me to other paths for more clarity.
Currently reading
January 7, 2010this is a pretty intense read, but awesome for anyone who is VERY serious about their own spiritual path
May 28, 2011
An amazing book largely because of the way it is supposedly written. Alice Bailey channels "the tibetan" whose treatise this is. It is quite detailed esoterica about causing good in the inner realms. I don't know if I ascribe to it, but I certainly learned a lot by reading it.
October 20, 2007
I am currently studying this book. I have read the contents of this book in entirety, yet there is I have oodles more to absorb. It is the current text for my yoga class. I recommend it to anyone. :-)
December 7, 2012
great book!! difficult but worth it :)
November 18, 2013
Fantastic book relating to the taking of up to the third initiation for disciples - read it many times and you will always find more depth to it.
October 28, 2020
You know, all my life I have been looking for a book that would take me beyond the limits of thinking, outlook, knowledge. And usually there was something interesting, but I could come up with it myself, in theory.
The Treatise on White Magic amazed me. In the beginning, there was a feeling that I was reading something beyond our civilization, as it is impossible to invent such stuff.
Thanks to this book I have received very valuable deep knowledge: about the world, about the energy in it, occult esoteric knowledge, something beyond all sciences and all religions, something eternal and continuous, to which we all sooner or later will come. It is absolutely unique work, it is the basis of everything else, the whole existence, it is something beyond religions and beliefs.
I recommend reading it if you are looking for spiritual ways, expanding your worldview, doing yoga and meditation, studying esotericism.
It is difficult to read the Treatise, very difficult. Highly recommended to read it in paper version.
The Treatise on White Magic amazed me. In the beginning, there was a feeling that I was reading something beyond our civilization, as it is impossible to invent such stuff.
Thanks to this book I have received very valuable deep knowledge: about the world, about the energy in it, occult esoteric knowledge, something beyond all sciences and all religions, something eternal and continuous, to which we all sooner or later will come. It is absolutely unique work, it is the basis of everything else, the whole existence, it is something beyond religions and beliefs.
I recommend reading it if you are looking for spiritual ways, expanding your worldview, doing yoga and meditation, studying esotericism.
It is difficult to read the Treatise, very difficult. Highly recommended to read it in paper version.
August 18, 2010
One of the first of the books by A.A. Bailey that I read although students had spoken of Consciousness of the Atom before it. White Magic introduces the concept of Will to Good. Good will. It's best not to think in racial terms when thinking of the White Magic and the White Brotherhood also introduced in this book.
February 3, 2021
Trattato denso di materiale. Per cercatori già avviati sul cammino. Io l'ho trovato parecchio complesso in molti passaggi, proprio per la mia scarsa preparazione sulla materia specifica. Tuttavia il materiale con cui riempire il proprio bagaglio è moltissimo e ricchissimo, anche per chi, come me, non è pronto a recepire l'intera lezione. Lo consiglio, pur sottolineandone la complessità.
October 27, 2025
This is the foundational book of Alice Bailey's teachings. If magic is the ability to give form to ideas, this book will guide the reader on how to materialize ideas for the benefit of the whole. It also helps to clarify the difference between black and white magic. While the former is made for the benefit of the individual, the latter is done for the sake of the whole. The book also provides a warning: if we become too attached to our creations, our creations might end up imprisoning us. Unattachment is, therefore, essential to white magic.
As Paul Brunton described:
(53-1) THE publication of A Treatise on White Magic by Alice A. Bailey (New York: Lucis Co.; London: Watkins) constitutes a literary event of primary importance to students of occultism. It is not only Mrs Bailey’s immediate circle of pupils in the Arcane School which shows a keen interest in her outgrowth of the Theosophy which H.P. Blavatsky restated last century, but also a wider fold whose units are scattered throughout the world. She is noted for her sane level-headed outlook, her attempt to blend Oriental and Occidental ideals into happy marriage, and her defence of modern civilisation’s value in fostering certain qualities which are not ordinarily regarded as spiritual.
The present volume runs to 640 pages. There stands behind it the shadowy mysterious figure of the Tibetan Brother, its proclaims inspirer. He himself attempts to withdraw attention from his personality by frankly stating in the “Introductory Remarks:” “My anonymity and status must be preserved. What I say of truth alone is of moment; the inspiration and help I can accord to any pilgrim on the path is alone vital. Upon these points the students are at liberty to ponder, omitting idle speculation as to the exact details of unimportant personalities and environing conditions... It is not my function to make individual application of the teaching given. That must be done by each student for himself.” It might be well to clear up possible misconceptions by mentioning that the method of communication used between him and Mrs Bailey in writing down this treatise was straightforward telepathy and nothing more. Such is the explanation which the brilliant authoress has given me in private. She confesses that she has never met the Tibetan in the flesh, and she modestly disclaims any personal experience of much truly remarkable teaching which the book contains.
Source: https://pbfarchive.s3.amazonaws.com/P...
As Paul Brunton described:
(53-1) THE publication of A Treatise on White Magic by Alice A. Bailey (New York: Lucis Co.; London: Watkins) constitutes a literary event of primary importance to students of occultism. It is not only Mrs Bailey’s immediate circle of pupils in the Arcane School which shows a keen interest in her outgrowth of the Theosophy which H.P. Blavatsky restated last century, but also a wider fold whose units are scattered throughout the world. She is noted for her sane level-headed outlook, her attempt to blend Oriental and Occidental ideals into happy marriage, and her defence of modern civilisation’s value in fostering certain qualities which are not ordinarily regarded as spiritual.
The present volume runs to 640 pages. There stands behind it the shadowy mysterious figure of the Tibetan Brother, its proclaims inspirer. He himself attempts to withdraw attention from his personality by frankly stating in the “Introductory Remarks:” “My anonymity and status must be preserved. What I say of truth alone is of moment; the inspiration and help I can accord to any pilgrim on the path is alone vital. Upon these points the students are at liberty to ponder, omitting idle speculation as to the exact details of unimportant personalities and environing conditions... It is not my function to make individual application of the teaching given. That must be done by each student for himself.” It might be well to clear up possible misconceptions by mentioning that the method of communication used between him and Mrs Bailey in writing down this treatise was straightforward telepathy and nothing more. Such is the explanation which the brilliant authoress has given me in private. She confesses that she has never met the Tibetan in the flesh, and she modestly disclaims any personal experience of much truly remarkable teaching which the book contains.
Source: https://pbfarchive.s3.amazonaws.com/P...
October 2, 2017
No stars for this tripe, but that is not an available option. Read online review "In Theosophy's Shadow" for reasons to avoid it and all of AA Bailey's writings.
Read
December 31, 2024This book took around four months to finish, and completing it on the last day of the year feels symbolic. While I can’t recall where it was recommended, I pushed past its theosophical undertones and New Age influences to explore its content.
One of the main disadvantages of the book is its perpetuation of theosophical hierarchies, and often misrepresents Eastern beliefs, presenting them in a superficial manner that feels written by social media influencers. This ambiguity in tone leaves readers questioning whether the author is taking themselves seriously or trying to deceive readers.
Fortunately behind all of that this book is all about individuation, delving into spiritual and psychological growth, while forcing the reader to interact and recognize their faults.
Bailey gives us a framework for maintaining balance during personal transformation, highlighting that intention is more significant than technique, intention is the work of the soul, technique is the work of the mind. Something that resonates with me, unable to connect with all the rituals and correspondences found through out esoteric writings, on retrospective this book gave me the tools to re-interpret and see the psychological dimensions of a philosophy I cared little about.
Presents an ethical dichotomy between selfish materialism—represented by the “black magician”—and altruistic enlightenment that should be the goal of the “white magician.” What tools do we have to achieve it? (Self) compassion, contemplation and moderation. The virtues that use our individuality for the advancement of the collective.
It’s hard to recommend it, and hard to justify reading it, but despite its flaws I’m left with a plethora of questions and answers that give a sense of progress to my spiritual and psychological journey.
Will rate it in sometime.
Some quotes:
Veiled and hidden by every form lies light. As evolution proceeds, matter becomes increasingly a better conductor of the light, thus demonstrating the accuracy of the statement of the Christ “I am the Light of the World”.
The race is progressing into an era wherein men will function as minds; when intelligence will be stronger than desire, and when thought powers will be used for appeal and for the guidance of the world, as now physical and emotional means are employed.
He ceases to reason, to think, to formulate, and to build in mental matter. He simply pours his life into the form and sends it forth to carry out his will. Just as long as he can contemplate and hold steady, so will his creation fulfill his intention and act as his agent.
One of the main disadvantages of the book is its perpetuation of theosophical hierarchies, and often misrepresents Eastern beliefs, presenting them in a superficial manner that feels written by social media influencers. This ambiguity in tone leaves readers questioning whether the author is taking themselves seriously or trying to deceive readers.
Fortunately behind all of that this book is all about individuation, delving into spiritual and psychological growth, while forcing the reader to interact and recognize their faults.
Bailey gives us a framework for maintaining balance during personal transformation, highlighting that intention is more significant than technique, intention is the work of the soul, technique is the work of the mind. Something that resonates with me, unable to connect with all the rituals and correspondences found through out esoteric writings, on retrospective this book gave me the tools to re-interpret and see the psychological dimensions of a philosophy I cared little about.
Presents an ethical dichotomy between selfish materialism—represented by the “black magician”—and altruistic enlightenment that should be the goal of the “white magician.” What tools do we have to achieve it? (Self) compassion, contemplation and moderation. The virtues that use our individuality for the advancement of the collective.
It’s hard to recommend it, and hard to justify reading it, but despite its flaws I’m left with a plethora of questions and answers that give a sense of progress to my spiritual and psychological journey.
Will rate it in sometime.
Some quotes:
Veiled and hidden by every form lies light. As evolution proceeds, matter becomes increasingly a better conductor of the light, thus demonstrating the accuracy of the statement of the Christ “I am the Light of the World”.
The race is progressing into an era wherein men will function as minds; when intelligence will be stronger than desire, and when thought powers will be used for appeal and for the guidance of the world, as now physical and emotional means are employed.
He ceases to reason, to think, to formulate, and to build in mental matter. He simply pours his life into the form and sends it forth to carry out his will. Just as long as he can contemplate and hold steady, so will his creation fulfill his intention and act as his agent.
December 4, 2017
Subjectively, this book doesn't interest me much as it follows a completely different path than I do and I see it as just another book with entry level information.
BUT
Objectively, I think this is an excellent book for a beginner! It has a ton of valuable information and great ideas for further thinking and research in such a compact volume!
I recommend it if you are just starting out your journey in the occult.
BUT
Objectively, I think this is an excellent book for a beginner! It has a ton of valuable information and great ideas for further thinking and research in such a compact volume!
I recommend it if you are just starting out your journey in the occult.
December 26, 2025
Here, white magic is defined as the ability to connect our consciousness to our higher true self to create what our soul truly desires. This is a very complex and early New Thought text on manifestation that will probably take me a few more times to get the full value.
October 8, 2018
Outstanding classic in every way. AAB is not always an easy read but she was just an amanuensis for the Master DK. Wonderful stuff!
October 28, 2020
Знаете, я всю жизнь искала книгу, которая выводила бы меня за рамки: за рамки мышления, мировоззрения, познаний. И обычно было что-то интересное, но вроде и сама могла до такого додуматься, в теории.
Трактат о Белой Магии меня поразил, при чтении сразу было ощущение, что я читаю что-то за гранью нашей цивилизации, такое невозможно придумать.
Благодаря этой книге я получила очень ценные глубинные знания: о мире, об энергетическом мире, оккультные эзотерические знания, нечто за гранью всех наук и всех религий, нечто вечное и непрерывное, к чему все мы рано или поздно придем. Это абсолютно уникальная работа, это базис всего прочего, это нечто вне религий и вероисповеданий.
Рекомендую к прочтению, если вы ищете духовные пути, расширяете свое мировоззрение, занимаетесь йогой и медитацией, изучаете эзотерику.
Читается трактат сложно, даже очень. Желательно читать в бумажном варианте.
Трактат о Белой Магии меня поразил, при чтении сразу было ощущение, что я читаю что-то за гранью нашей цивилизации, такое невозможно придумать.
Благодаря этой книге я получила очень ценные глубинные знания: о мире, об энергетическом мире, оккультные эзотерические знания, нечто за гранью всех наук и всех религий, нечто вечное и непрерывное, к чему все мы рано или поздно придем. Это абсолютно уникальная работа, это базис всего прочего, это нечто вне религий и вероисповеданий.
Рекомендую к прочтению, если вы ищете духовные пути, расширяете свое мировоззрение, занимаетесь йогой и медитацией, изучаете эзотерику.
Читается трактат сложно, даже очень. Желательно читать в бумажном варианте.
June 15, 2014
How devoted I was to this book in my youth! And how it then de-humanised me ...
But Meditations on the Tarot saved my soul http://corjesusacratissimum.org/2009/...
But Meditations on the Tarot saved my soul http://corjesusacratissimum.org/2009/...
February 10, 2008
my copy of this is put back together with masking tape that is now flaking. i also made a cardboard back for it from an old legal pad. this is the conspiracy-theory i really believe.
Read
July 23, 2012I never actually finished it... It was hard to read for extended periods bc of how dry it is... Oh yeah & I lost out somehow! Ugh... It is a great, informative work
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews