num_pages: 256
description: Compiled from the earliest recordings of time &amp; spanning thru the 20th century, Secret Societies: A History investigates the practices &amp; customs of various types of private organizations from around the world. Included with the first-hand experiences encountered by the author while researching this subject, are sources never before revealed delving into the minds of the inhabitants of these surreptitious groups &amp; an in-depth analysis of the structures found within each society. From groups such as the Castrators of Russia to the Gnostics, Daraul uncovers bizarre &amp; unknown secret societies &amp; captivates readers with page-turning tales. Idries Shah (Pashto: ادريس شاه‎, Urdu: ادریس شاه‎, Hindi: इदरीस शाह; 6/16/1924–11/23/1996), also known as Idris Shah, né Sayed Idries el-Hashimi (Arabic: سيد إدريس هاشمي) &amp; by the pen name Arkon Daraul, was an author &amp; teacher in the Sufi tradition who wrote over three dozen books on topics ranging from psychology &amp; spirituality to travelogues &amp; culture studies. Born in India, the descendant of a family of Afghan nobles, Shah grew up mainly in England. His early writings centred on magic &amp; witchcraft.
language: English
title: Secret Societies: A History
titlecomplete: Secret Societies: A History
genres: Occult, Social Science, Reference, Nonfiction, History, Esoterica, Historical, Religion, Essays, Conspiracy Theories
ratings_count: 281
publisher: MJF Books/Fine Communications (NYC)