Mysteries of the Bridechamber by Victoria LePage © 2007 Inner
Traditions ISBN 978-1594477193-4 418 pages Paperback
$19.95 (U.S.)
I thought I knew what I was getting into with this book. I was wrong. I
expected a basic exploration of First Century Palestinian religions, and
found myself dealing with genetic modification, Qabalah, and the Nephilim
(Sons of God) with mortal women.
Although I was slightly familiar with Gnosticism and a fairly large amount
of Gnostic literature I rapidly found myself re-evaluating what I thought
I
knew of the origins and derivation of Gnostic thought. I also found
myself
exploring the realms of early Christianity in more depth than I had
anticipated. I was pleasantly surprised at the even-handed presentation
of
topics which have been subject to a certain level of mysterical thought
through the centuries.
There are aspects of this work which are sure to offend almost everyone,
from the assertion that Jesus and Mary Magdelene were (at the very least)
physical lovers to the assertion that their relationship was on a higher
plane; from the assertion that modern Judaism (rabbinical) was only one of
the forms of Judaism vying for dominance in 1st century Israel.
On the other hand, and assuming the reader is possessed of an open mind,
the
potential exists for opening vast new perspectives - some of which will
seem
blindingly obvious in hindsight and some of which will creep up on the
reader. For this reason, if for no other, this book needs to be read by
anyone concerned with the transmission of initiatory power (of whatever
religious persuasion). Do not allow yourself to be put off by the obvious
Judeo-Christian basis of this book. There is much of value and much of it
is accessible with only a modicum of effort.
Having said that, I must also caution the reader that the gulf between
intellectual knowledge and practical use of that knowledge and practical
use
of that knowledge is, or can be, a deep abyss. It may take a great deal
of
effort to go from "understanding" something to "knowing" something. The
first is intellectual and the latter is visceral.
This was one of those books I get every year which, while not one I
specifically requested for review, ends up being one I am glad landed in
my
mailbox. Take the time to read this book. Then take time to think about
what you have read, and allow its ideas to germinate and grow within.
|
