Asclepius: The Perfect Discourse of Hermes Trismegistus — Occult Philosophy

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Asclepius: The Perfect Discourse of Hermes Trismegistus

Name: Asclepius: The Perfect Discourse of Hermes Trismegistus
Price: 32.95 USD
Availability: InStock
ISBN: 9780715635643

✍️ Salaman, Clement

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4.6

(1 review)

$32.95

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

Delve into a foundational work of Western esotericism, presenting the wisdom attributed to the mythical sage Hermes Trismegistus. This volume offers a crucial translation of the Asclepius, a philosophical dialogue originally composed around the 2nd or 3rd century AD. Like its renowned companion, the Corpus Hermeticum, it explores life's deepest mysteries through an intimate conversation. Readers will uncover profound insights into the singular nature of the Divine, the celestial order, and humanity's inherent spiritual potential. It's an essential text for understanding ancient thought and the philosophical currents influencing early Gnostic traditions.

Salaman, Clement

📚 all books by this author (3) →

🕯️

Occult Philosophy

🏛 Bristol Classical Press 📅 2007 📖 144 pages 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9780715635643

Fun Fact

Clement Salaman's Asclepius translation is vital for serious students of esotericism, offering direct access to one of Hermeticism's foundational pillars. It excels in conveying profound ancient spiritual philosophy. Those seeking light, modern interpretations or easy answers will find it demanding. For anyone interested in the philosophical underpinnings of Gnosticism, ancient Egyptian thought, and the Western esoteric tradition, this volume is indispensable, bridging classical wisdom and later mystical currents.

📚 This Book in Collections

☤ Corpus Hermeticum

📝 Description: Asclepius: The Perfect Discourse of Hermes Trismegistus

The Asclepius is one of two philosophical books ascribed to the legendary sage of Ancient Egypt, Hermes Trismegistus, who was believed in classical and renaissance times to have lived shortly after Moses. The Greek original, lost since classical times, is thought to date from the 2nd or 3rd century AD. However, a Latin version survived, of which this volume is a translation. Like its companion, the Corpus Hermeticum (or The Way of Hermes), the Asclepius describes the most profound philosophical questions in the form of a conversation about secrets: the nature of the One, the role of the gods, and the stature of the human being. Not only does this work offer spiritual guidance, but it is also a valuable insight into the minds and emotions of the Egyptians in ancient and classical times. Many of the views expressed also reflect Gnostic beliefs which passed into early Christianity.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

Salaman’s translation provides a necessary entry point into the Asclepius, a pivotal philosophical dialogue from the second or third century AD. The work effectively conveys the intimate conversation style characteristic of the Corpus Hermeticum, exploring metaphysical themes with clarity. However, this is not a casual read. It does not suit those seeking practical magic spells, modern self-help advice, or straightforward narrative fiction. The text demands patience and an interest in dense theological discourse regarding the Divine and celestial orders. Readers expecting light entertainment will find it dry, but those dedicated to historical esotericism will appreciate its scholarly value and enduring philosophical depth.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

This volume is an essential treasure for scholars and seekers eager to understand the roots of Western esoteric thought. Readers will uncover profound insights into the singular nature of the Divine, the celestial order, and humanity's inherent spiritual potential through this crucial translation. It serves as a vital key for those studying philosophical currents that shaped early Gnostic traditions. By engaging with the legendary voice of Hermes Trismegistus, you gain access to ancient Egypt's profound spiritual wisdom. This dialogue offers a unique window into life's deepest mysteries, making it indispensable for anyone committed to exploring the historical and theological foundations of Hermetic philosophy.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.6/5

★★★★★

If you are drawn to the ancient roots of Western esotericism, Gnosticism, or philosophical theology, this book is an indispensable addition to your collection. Seekers interested in humanity's spiritual potential and the profound wisdom of antiquity will find its insights timeless and…

Reader rating

4.6

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

Salaman’s translation provides a necessary entry point into the Asclepius, a pivotal philosophical dialogue from the second or third century AD. The work effectively conveys the intimate conversation style characteristic of the Corpus Hermeticum, exploring metaphysical themes with clarity. However, this is not a casual read. It does not suit those seeking practical magic spells, modern self-help advice, or straightforward narrative fiction. The text demands patience and an interest in dense theological discourse regarding the Divine and celestial orders. Readers expecting light entertainment will find it dry, but those dedicated to historical esotericism will appreciate its scholarly value and enduring philosophical depth.

❓ Frequently asked questions

No, the Asclepius is one of two primary philosophical works, its companion being the more widely known Corpus Hermeticum, also sometimes called The Way of Hermes.

Hermes Trismegistus, or "Thrice Great Hermes," is a legendary syncretic sage, embodying characteristics of the Greek god Hermes and the Egyptian god Thoth, revered as the source of Hermetic wisdom.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

The Divine Monad

This text meticulously explores the ultimate unity of existence, revealing the "One" as the supreme, ineffable source from which all creation emanates. It delves into the philosophical implications of a singular divine principle, guiding the reader towards a deeper comprehension of cosmic coherence and the foundational essence of reality.

Cosmic Order & Deities

The Asclepius elucidates the intricate hierarchy of divine beings and their roles in the cosmos, moving beyond simple polytheism to present a sophisticated understanding of spiritual forces. It examines how these entities mediate between the transcendent One and the material world, shaping the fabric of existence and influencing human destiny.

Human Spiritual Stature

Far from diminishing humanity, this work elevates the human being to a central position in the cosmos, portraying us as possessing a divine spark and the capacity for spiritual ascension. It offers guidance on realizing this inherent potential, fostering a profound connection with the divine and understanding our unique place in the grand scheme.

📜 Historical context

The Asclepius is a seminal Hermetic text, once believed to be from an ancient Egyptian sage preceding Moses, though scholarly consensus places its origin in the 2nd or 3rd century AD. Its survival in Latin preserved vital insights into Hellenistic philosophy and spirituality, bridging classical antiquity with the Renaissance. It profoundly influenced early esoteric and Gnostic thought, often alongside the Corpus Hermeticum.

📚 Glossary

Hermeticism
Trismegistus
Gnosticism

📔 Questions to reflect on

How does the concept of "The One" in the Asclepius resonate with or challenge your current understanding of divinity or ultimate reality?
Reflect on the book's portrayal of humanity's "stature." What implications does this hold for your own sense of purpose and spiritual potential?
In what ways might the ancient wisdom presented in this Hermetic text still offer relevant guidance for navigating the complexities of the modern world?