The Temple of High Magic: Hermetic Initiations in the Western Mystery Tradition
“Well cited, reference, and inclusive of a sufficient glossary for all but the complete novice. A welcomed treatise in the library of any occultist, magician, herbologist, horticulturalist, and historian alike. This tome will peak your interests, inspire your creativity, and challenge your perspicacity. A hearty concentration of and contribution to the Great Work! Enjoy.” (Kris Kulish, Behutet, February 2011)“The Temple of High Magicwas described in ‘Wiccan Rede, Beltane 2007’as an ‘impressive book written by a lady who has earned respect as an expert in the field of esotericism and mystery traditions in the Netherlands.’ This book, now available in English, will impress English-speaking readers by its compactness and clarity. Dealing with a large range of subjects regarding the Western Mysteries, Ina has also included Pathworkings/guided visualizations and rituals making this not only a compendium but also a practical workbook. Highly recommended for everyone who is interested in (modern) Mystery religions.” (Morgana, cofounder of Silver Circle Magazine and coordinator of the 2009 Pagan Federation Internatio)“This book will undoubtedly be regarded as the defining text for a solid basis in ceremonial magic. It offers a thorough explanation of what it really takes to open and enrich yourself with inner work. It is loaded with background information, methods, and techniques you can immediately use to practice. Ina Cüsters-van Bergen explains how you can reach a new and much higher level. She gives the answer of how to structure your magical practice so that you get the full benefit of your efforts. I fully endorse this book and the teaching it offers.” (GardenStone, author of Germanische Magie [Germanic Magic])“The Temple of High Magicis a must-have book for those who want a clear insight of the modern magical path, either as seekers or those who have been traveling this road for some time. Rather than concentrate on just basic methods, it takes the student through an evolution of ever more advanced magical work.” (Nick Farrell, author of Magical Pathworking)“The first thing that touched me was the pleasurable and clear style of writing from the author. On top of this I ascertained her true competence and expertise about this subject. Finally there is a competent and reliable guide that can help us obtain insight into the Western Mystery Tradition. I recommend this book wholeheartedly.” (Daniel van Egmond, Ph.D., Dutch mystic and Kabbalist)“This book is really a must for everyone who wants to start a practical, theoretical, and historic study in the Western Mystery Traditions, Hermetism, Wicca, Magic, and Kabbalah. Ina Cüsters-van Bergen explains in clear words how ceremonial magic works and through the many exercises and Pathworkings the students will reach deeper knowledge in their inner worlds.” (Anneke Huijser, owner of the metaphysical and esoteric bookshop in the Netherlands)“The Temple of High Magicoffers a clear and serious perspective on the work of the author’s school, the Temple of Starlight. We get to know what magic--more specifically spiritual magic--is. Ina Cüsters-van Bergen successfully uses the alchemical language as a symbolic language pointing toward inner transmutations.” (John van Schaik, religious historian)“Ina Cüsters-van Bergen is able to elucidate complicated and ambiguous concepts. The manual you were always looking for has finally arrived.” (Joke and Ko Lankester, Wiccan High Priests, authors of De Kringloop van het Leven [The Cycle of Life)“The Temple of High Magicis an important work from someone who has earned her credits in the Mystery Tradition. It is a book of great size, which treats the extensive range of the Western Mystery Tradition without loosing clearness.” (Merlin Sythove, Gardnerian witch)"Obviously I'm no expert on the Western Esoteric traditions, because let's face it, I'm not an expert on anything, but I will dare say that this is the best introduction to the subject matter I've ever seen, or possibly that's ever been published. . . . Bergen's book thoroughly answers the questions, "What are the Western Esoteric traditions all about?". . . . Bergen covers the roots that feed into the current practice of Mystery Traditions today, explains the significance of temples, tools, and robes, covers Tree of Life basics, Chakras, features loads of exercises and rituals, and more, more, more! . . . . buy this book and then buy a second copy to give to anyone you know with even a passing interest in the Western Esoteric Traditions." (The Magical Buffet, August 2010)". . . the author has brought together a fusion of the art and the science of Magic at a high level, clearly based on her years of experience, yet with a light of touch, authoritative yet humane. . . . Congratulations to the translator too!  I would recommend this book to seekers and initiates alike." (Inner Light Magazine, UK, August 2010)"The Temple of High Magic provides the spiritual seeker with the practical knowledge and techniques used in ceremonial magic based on the Jewish Cabbala, Hermeticism and the Ancient Egyptian magical tradition." (The Cauldron, September 2010)