Esoteric Mysteries of the Underworld

The Power and Meaning of Subterranean Sacred Spaces

Jean-Pierre Bayard author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Inner Traditions Bear and Company

Published:12th Nov '20

Should be back in stock very soon

Esoteric Mysteries of the Underworld cover

This book explores the spiritual significance of the underworld, examining myths and practices across cultures, including the transformative journey into subterranean realms in Esoteric Mysteries of the Underworld.

In Esoteric Mysteries of the Underworld, Jean-Pierre Bayard delves into the profound spiritual significance of subterranean spaces across various cultures. He explores the ancient beliefs surrounding the underworld, revealing how natural caves and caverns have historically served as sacred sites for worship and initiation. From the Orphic Mysteries to the cults of the Black Madonna and Isis, the author illustrates the central role these mystical practices have played in human spirituality.

The book examines the myths, symbolism, and deities associated with the underworld, drawing connections between diverse traditions from ancient Egypt to Scandinavia. It highlights the transformative power inherent in the hero's journey into the depths of the earth, emphasizing the lessons learned from such descents. Bayard also investigates the telluric currents that traverse ley lines, the significance of underground waterways, and the esoteric properties attributed to various minerals and gems, all of which contribute to our understanding of the hidden world beneath our feet.

By framing the Earth as a nurturing womb, Esoteric Mysteries of the Underworld invites readers to consider how the journey into the underworld symbolizes a descent into matter and a path toward spiritual rebirth. This comprehensive guide not only uncovers the mysteries of subterranean realms but also encourages a deeper appreciation for the spiritual energies that lie beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered and understood.

“. . . steers a careful path between the symbology of Guénon, the scholarship of Eliade, the alchemy of Fulcanelli, and the sensationalism of Pauwels and Bergier. Bayard never loses sight of the essence of the subterranean mysteries: the restoration of our primordial state.” * Joscelyn Godwin, author of Mystery Religions in the Ancient World *
“A deliriously speculative and erudite examination of caves. Echoing the modes of writers as divergent as Bachelard and Eliade, Jean-Pierre Bayard’s examination benefits enormously from a deep draft from the font of esoteric wisdom. With these tools he creates a narrative that presents the myth of the cave as a story of human initiation, knowledge, and self-discovery.” * Jesse Bransford, clinical associate professor of visual arts, NYU Steinhardt *
“What I also love about this book is how Bayard takes all of this information and somehow manages to not only make it interesting, but to also leave space for the reader to question. There is no feeling that the material presented is the final word on any of the subjects contained within: this is more of collection of writings on a variety of topics that all have an esoteric thread linking them to one another. Each section blends seamlessly into the next and there is enough information in each section that links to the next, something that I found kept me on track and engaged despite the vast amount of information being presented.” * Sarrah October Young, Musing Mystic *

ISBN: 9781644110621

Dimensions: 229mm x 152mm x 20mm

Weight: 522g

320 pages