The Book of Black Magic (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781684227075)

2022 Reprint of the 1898 Edition. Full facsimile of the original edition and not reproduced with Optical Recognition Software. The Book of Black Magic and of Pacts was first published in a limited run in 1898 and distributed more widely under the title The Book of Ceremonial Magic in 1910. It is an attempt to document various famous grimoires, explain the history behind them (refuting many of the legends surrounding them), discuss the theology contained therein (e.g. raising the question why good angels would be summoned to kill an enemy), and to synthesize many famous grimoires into one system. Waite includes sections on the rites and mysteries of goëtic theurgy, sorcery, and infernal necromancy. Illustrated with the magical figures contained in the first edition. Partial Contents: Antiquity of Magical Rituals; Rituals of Transcendental Magic; Composite Rituals; Key of Solomon; Lesser Key of Solomon; Rituals of Black Magic; Complete Grimoire; Preparation of the Operator; Initial Rites and Ceremonies; Descending Hierarchy; Mysteries of Goetic Theurgy; Mystery of the Sanctum Regnum; Method of Honorius.