SubRosa Issue3-Spread

Magazine Overview

Title: SUB ROSA
Issue: Three
Date: December 2005
Publisher: The Daily Grail Presents
Tagline: Where Science And Magic, Myth And History Meet

This issue of Sub Rosa, the third installment from The Daily Grail, delves into a diverse range of topics that bridge the gap between the scientific, the mystical, and the historical. The magazine features articles on the afterlife, psychedelics, alien abductions, the historical influence of Freemasonry and Deism on the founding of the United States, and the visionary art of Alex Grey.

Editorial

Greg Taylor, the editor, reflects on a busy year, highlighting the launch of Sub Rosa and the continued development of The Daily Grail's web resources, including their wiki 'The Red Pill' and 'The Underground Stream of Consciousness'. He discusses the challenges of earning a living from this work and the importance of community support through advertising, donations, and spreading the word. Taylor also announces the upcoming introduction of a 'letters' section in Issue 4 and invites submissions for reviews.

News

Harvard Psychologist Debunks Abductions: Susan Clancy, a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University, argues in her book 'Abducted: How People Come To Believe They Were Kidnapped By Aliens' that alien abductions are not real but are instead products of sleep paralysis or fantasy. Her research, which aimed to disprove the methods of psychiatrist John Mack, has been controversial.

New Mexico Circles Explained: Giant symbols found in the New Mexico landscape have been identified as the logo of the Church of Scientology, marking an underground complex built to protect the works of L. Ron Hubbard. The complex, including a vault, cost US$2.5 million and was constructed in the late 1980s.

Radar Reveals Martian Ice: Europe's Mars Express spacecraft has detected evidence of liquid water trapped in an underground cavity on Mars, between 1.5 and 2.5 kilometers below the surface in the Chryse Planitia area.

Pyramid Found in Europe?: Bosnian explorer Semir Osmanagic claims to have located a buried pyramid in Visoko, Bosnia, which he believes has all the elements of a pyramid and was shaped by the ancient Illyrian people.

Cloning Pioneer Quits: Hwang Woo-Suk, a pioneer in cloning technology from South Korea, has resigned after admitting to ethical and scientific problems with his research, including the donation of eggs by junior researchers and paid women without proper consent.

Bimini Discovery Proved Right?: An American archaeological team led by William Donato and Dr Greg Little has confirmed limestone artifacts submerged off the Miami coast are the remains of an ancient harbor, providing definitive proof that the Bimini Road is a breakwater.

New Stonehenge Discovery: Archaeologists from Sheffield University have discovered a prehistoric ceremonial road, suggesting Stonehenge was part of a larger complex and served as a funerary monument.

News Briefs: This section includes brief reports on Antarctic ice core studies revealing increased CO2 levels, the development of light-sensitive bacteria for photography, an African-British man refusing a blood sample due to being a witch-doctor, the dismissal of a hunter's panther claim, and the relocation of sacred Native American stones in New Mexico.

Columns

The Afterlife Aftermath (Greg Taylor): Greg Taylor discusses the controversial research of Dr. Gary Schwartz at the University of Arizona into the survival of consciousness after death. He highlights the ongoing debate between Schwartz and James Randi, and the recent statement by medium Allison Dubois disavowing Schwartz's new book, which Taylor suggests could hinder the acceptance of afterlife research.

Putting Psychedelics Into Perspective (Ian Lawton): Ian Lawton reflects on his experience with psychedelic research, particularly Rick Strassman's work with DMT. He notes that while Strassman's study yielded limited 'transpersonal' experiences, other research, like that on iboga and near-death experiences, suggests a deeper spiritual significance. Lawton suggests that natural substances may offer more profound spiritual insights than synthesized ones.

Hamlet Was Right (Michael Grosso): Michael Grosso explores the evidence for life after death, contrasting scientific materialism with the enduring belief in a soul. He discusses research on near-death experiences and reincarnation, noting the resistance from both mainstream science and religion. Grosso argues for an open mind, citing cases of recovered memories in Alzheimer's patients as potential evidence of a soul's persistence.

Features

Utopia In America (Greg Taylor): This feature explores the idea that the United States may have been founded on Masonic and Utopian ideals, rather than purely Christian ones. It discusses the Masonic ceremony for the Capitol's cornerstone, the potential influence of Dan Brown's 'The Solomon Key', and the historical context of Hermetic, Rosicrucian, and Utopian thinking prevalent at the time.

What is Deism? (Features): This article explains Deism as a religious philosophy based on reason and logic, rather than divine revelation. It highlights its influence on the Founding Fathers of the United States, such as Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin, and Abraham Lincoln, who were adherents to this belief system.

This brotherhood at one point contemplated emigrating en masse to Virginia in order to found their Utopian society: This section, linked to the 'Utopia in America' feature, discusses the influence of Rosicrucian philosophy and Sir Francis Bacon's 'The New Atlantis' on European intelligentsia, leading to the contemplation of founding a Utopian society in America by groups like 'Antilia'.

Artist Spotlight

Evolving... Luke Brown: This section features the artwork of Luke Brown, an artist whose work is described as evolving and is presented within the context of the magazine's themes.

Cover Story

Shades of Grey: The Visions And Art Of Alex Grey: This feature focuses on the visionary artist Alex Grey, describing him as one of the foremost artists of our time and an eloquent speaker on art, mysticism, and society. His work is featured on the cover of this issue.

Profiler

An Old Soul... Ian Stevenson (Profiler): This profile likely discusses the work of Ian Stevenson, a researcher known for his studies on reincarnation and children who remember past lives.

Features

Rosslyn And The Grail (Mark Oxbrow): This feature delves into the mysteries surrounding Rosslyn Chapel and the Grail legends.

Seed-Stone Of Creation (Gary Osborn & Philip Gardiner): This article likely explores themes related to ancient creation myths or artifacts.

Reviews

Crystal Ball (Reviews): This section contains reviews of books, music, or other media related to the magazine's themes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sub Rosa revolve around the intersection of science, spirituality, myth, and history. The magazine consistently challenges orthodox viewpoints, presenting research and perspectives that explore the unexplained and the esoteric. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations and evidence, particularly in areas like consciousness, the afterlife, and historical mysteries. There is a clear emphasis on rational spirituality and the scientific investigation of phenomena often dismissed by mainstream discourse.

This issue of Sub Rosa, dated December 2005, focuses on the intersection of utopian ideals, religious and philosophical thought, and artistic expression, particularly in the context of the founding of the United States and contemporary visionary art.

UTOPIA IN AMERICA: Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Thomas Paine

The magazine explores the intellectual climate of the Enlightenment, where scientific discoveries and new philosophies challenged established religious and governmental authorities. It highlights the rise of Deism, a belief system emphasizing reason over revelation, and its influence on many intellectuals and leaders.

Benjamin Franklin is presented as a key figure who embodied these ideals. He was a Freemason, initiated in 1731, and rose to Provincial Grand Master of Pennsylvania. His printing of Anderson's Book of Constitutions in 1734 aided the spread of Freemasonry in America. Franklin was also a Deist, and his initiation into the influential Neuf Soeurs lodge in Paris in 1778 placed him among prominent figures of the era.

George Washington is also identified as a Freemason, initiated in 1752. Despite his prominent role as commander-in-chief, he was notably modest and declined the position of Grand Master of the planned Grand Lodge of the United States. His religious views are described as Deist, with accounts suggesting he would leave church services before communion.

Thomas Jefferson, while not definitively linked to Freemasonry, is noted for his sympathy towards its ideals. He created his own version of the Bible, omitting supernatural elements, known as the 'Jefferson Bible'. His writings show a defense of Adam Weishaupt and the Illuminati, aligning with Utopian and Masonic ideals.

Thomas Paine, another Founding Father, is highlighted for his strong Deist views and his significant impact on American independence. His work 'The Age of Reason' expressed strong anti-Christian sentiments, and he proposed that Freemasonry originated from the remnants of Druidic religion, a view that contrasted with the Craft's own myths. His critical stance on Christianity is suggested as a reason why his role in American independence has been downplayed.

The issue posits that the founders were largely non-Christian, drawing more from Freemasonry and Rosicrucian thinking than from traditional Christianity, with a core desire to establish a land free from the tyrannies of religion and government.

The Visions And Art Of Alex Grey

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with visionary artist Alex Grey. Grey describes himself as a 'psycho-chemical mystic' whose art is inspired by entheogenically-induced mystical experiences. His work, which includes album art for TOOL and the cover for Rick Strassman's book 'DMT: The Spirit Molecule', aims to explore the underlying unity of existence and the divine.

Grey discusses his influences, including Michelangelo, William Blake, and Ken Wilber, and his extensive body of work, including books like 'Sacred Mirrors: The Visionary Art of Alex Grey'. He also talks about 'The Chapel of Sacred Mirrors' (CoSM), an experimental art installation he co-created with his wife, Allyson Grey, which serves as a space for spiritual renewal and community events.

The interview touches upon Grey's personal life, including his family and his views on the use of psychedelics like LSD and DMT. He explains how these experiences have informed his art and his understanding of consciousness. He also offers advice to young artists, encouraging them to prioritize their artwork and stay true to their passion.

Grey's perspective on art's potential to transform humanity is explored, suggesting that visionary art can help evolve our perception of the world and counter the cynicism and materialism promoted by corporate media.

Other Content

The magazine also includes advertisements for 'New Dawn' magazine and a DVD box set titled 'Consciousness', featuring interviews with various scientists and thinkers. It also features an advertisement for 'The Guide To Dan Brown's The Solomon Key'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the influence of esoteric traditions (Freemasonry, Rosicrucianism, Deism) on the founding of the United States, the critique of traditional religious dogma, and the exploration of consciousness through art and altered states. The editorial stance appears to favor critical inquiry into historical narratives and an open exploration of alternative spiritual and philosophical viewpoints, particularly those that challenge mainstream perspectives.

This issue of Sub Rosa, dated December 2005, features a cover story on artist Alex Grey and explores themes of visionary art, historical mysteries, and rational spirituality. The magazine presents a diverse range of content, from artistic profiles to historical investigations and philosophical discussions.

Cover Story: Alex Grey

The cover story focuses on Alex Grey, a visionary artist whose work is described as a 'sacred mirror' that can help people 'wake up from the mass media trance' and explore their 'untapped potentials.' Grey's art is presented as a source of creative solutions for contemporary problems, encouraging individuals to think for themselves and enlarge their worldview. Readers are directed to his website, www.alexgrey.com, for more information and to view his artwork, as well as to www.cosm.org for details about the Chapel of Sacred Mirrors.

Book Feature: Lost Star of Myth and Time

A prominent feature on the cover is the book "Lost Star of Myth and Time" by Walter Cruttenden. It is described as a 'wonderful, stimulating, thought provoking... approach to the greatest enigmas of human history.' Blurbs from John Anthony West and Graham Hancock praise the book, with Hancock suggesting Cruttenden may have 'found the key to the mystery of the ages.' The book explores ancient folklore and themes of history moving in cycles, potentially linked to the Precession of the Equinox, and suggests new astronomical evidence supports these ideas. The book is available at bookstores everywhere, with a website at www.loststarbook.com, priced at $19.95 for 368 pages.

Feature: Rosslyn and the Grail

This extensive feature delves into the history and mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel, Scotland, particularly in light of Dan Brown's novel 'The Da Vinci Code.' Authors Mark Oxbrow and Ian Robertson, who have researched the chapel for ten years, aim to uncover the 'real story' of Rosslyn, its connections to King Arthur, the Holy Grail, the Templars, and the St Clair family. They challenge the popular notion that the chapel was built by the Knights Templar, stating this is 'pure fantasy' akin to believing in Hogwarts or Narnia. The article highlights that Rosslyn Chapel has kept its secrets for 500 years and that many authors have constructed speculative theories. Oxbrow and Robertson's book, 'Rosslyn and the Grail,' explores legends, ghost stories, and the actual history of the chapel and castle.

Debunking Templar Theories

Oxbrow and Robertson argue that Sir William St Clair, the founder of Rosslyn Chapel, was not a Templar. They point to historical records, specifically trial documents from 1309, where Sir William and his father Henry testified *against* the Knights Templar. They emphasize that Sir William actively disliked the order and that the Templar order was destroyed over a century before Rosslyn Chapel was built in 1446. The eight-spoked wheel and sword on a grave slab are identified as symbols of St Catherine, the family saint.

The Chapel's Design and Purpose

The article explains that Rosslyn Chapel was designed as a 'giant picture book,' with each carving placed in a specific order to tell a story as one walks clockwise around the chapel. It took the authors over twenty years to decipher these carvings. The chapel is described as a medieval treasure, connecting light and dark, the Gospels, seasons, and the cycle of life and death, serving as a memorial to William St Clair's first love, Elizabeth Douglas. The founders of the chapel are identified as Sir William St Clair, Elizabeth Douglas, and Sir Gilbert Hay.

Sir Gilbert Hay's Role

Sir Gilbert Hay, a scholar of medieval Europe educated at St Andrews and who lived in the French court, is discussed as a potential 'secret architect' of Rosslyn Chapel. He translated important texts on knighthood and chivalry into Scots and moved to Rosslyn Castle shortly before the chapel's founding. While there's no definitive historical source confirming his role as the 'secret architect,' his presence and expertise make him a significant figure.

Rosslyn's Enduring Mystery

Despite its survival through wars and upheavals, Rosslyn Chapel's true meaning became secret over centuries. The article concludes by stating that 'Rosslyn and the Grail' aims to uncover this truth, making the real story of Rosslyn finally told after five hundred years. A tour related to 'Chivalry, Knights, and the Grail' with author Karen Ralls is also advertised.

Artist Spotlight: Luke Brown

This section features Luke Brown, an artist described as an 'intrepid explorer' and part of a new generation of visionaries. His art explores spiritual mysteries, drawing inspiration from mystical experiences, dreams, and channeled dialogues. His work is a synthesis of digital and painting mediums, constantly redefining his style. Brown's art has been shown internationally alongside artists like Alex Grey, HR Giger, and Robert Venosa. He is currently based in the Elfinstone rainforest in British Columbia, Canada. His influences include 'entheogenic plant teachers,' and his inspiration comes from those who live fearlessly in their creative potential. Brown details his artistic process, which involves scanning separate pieces into Photoshop for digital collage, printing, and then painting over the final image. Alex Grey provides a testimonial, calling Brown 'one of the best and brightest of the young visionary artists' who graphically translates 'psychedelic mindstates' and blurs the boundaries between inner and outer worlds.

Feature: Rational Spirituality

Written by Ian Lawton, this feature explores the concept of 'Rational Spirituality,' arguing for a worldview based on evidence rather than faith. Lawton posits that modern science, particularly theoretical physics, indicates that a purely materialist worldview is inadequate. He presents evidence from near-death experiences (NDEs) and past-life regressions as compelling support for a spiritual dimension independent of the physical body.

Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)

The article recounts the case of Pam Reynolds, who experienced NDEs during brain surgery. Despite being clinically brain-dead, she reported verifiable details, including conversations between medical staff and the specific design of surgical instruments used, which skeptics struggled to explain through conventional means. This case, and others like it, suggest that consciousness and memory can remain intact independently of the physical body.

Children Who Remember Past Lives

Ian Stevenson's research on children spontaneously recalling past lives is highlighted. One case mentioned is Swarnlata Mishra, who recalled numerous obscure details about the life of another Indian girl, Biya Pathak, many of which were verified and unknown to her current family. Stevenson's methodology is designed to detect deception, and the accuracy of these details suggests a genuine connection to past lives.

Past-Life Regression

Past-life regression is also presented as evidence. While acknowledging the potential for imagination, Lawton notes that many cases involve verifiable and obscure historical details that are difficult to explain through normal means or deliberate deception. The case of Gwen McDonald, who recalled details of an 18th-century life as Rose Duncan in Glastonbury, is cited as an example where historical verification confirmed the accuracy of the regression.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of art, history, spirituality, and the unexplained. There's a clear editorial stance favoring evidence-based inquiry, whether it's debunking popular myths about Rosslyn Chapel or presenting scientific and experiential evidence for phenomena beyond conventional materialism. The magazine champions critical thinking while remaining open to profound experiences and alternative interpretations of reality, as seen in the coverage of visionary art and spiritual phenomena. The recurring theme is the search for deeper truths, whether through historical research, artistic expression, or personal spiritual experiences.

This issue of "Rational Spirituality" from December 2005, published by Sub Rosa, focuses on the intersection of spiritual concepts like reincarnation and karma with rational inquiry and modern evidence. The cover headline "The Rational Spirituality Movement: evidence not faith..." sets the tone for an exploration of spiritual frameworks grounded in empirical observation.

Past-Life Regression and Reincarnation

The magazine presents past-life regression as a powerful tool for understanding reincarnation, highlighting how therapists discovered its benefits, often by accident, when patients described events from previous lives. These therapies reportedly alleviated severe psychological and psychosomatic disorders, convincing pioneers—many of whom were initially skeptical scientists—that reincarnation is a reality. The article dismisses alternative explanations like tapping into a universal memory or ancestral genes, citing the personal and often 'karmic' linkages observed in cases.

Dr. Ian Stevenson, Director of the Division of Personality Studies at the University of Virginia, is a central figure in this discussion. His decades-long research into reincarnation, involving over 2600 investigated cases, is highlighted. Stevenson's work focuses on children who claim to remember past lives, often with birthmarks that correspond to fatal wounds in those previous lives. The article notes that these memories typically fade between ages 5 and 8. Stevenson's scientific professionalism and avoidance of 'hyping' his data are emphasized, with his conclusion that a rational person can believe in reincarnation based on evidence.

The Dynamics of Karma

The concept of karma is explored, differentiating between 'progressive' and 'repetitive' karma. The magazine argues against the idea of 'short-cutting' the karmic round, suggesting that souls are on a long journey of learning through experiencing all aspects of life. The 'action and reaction' model of karma is challenged, particularly in light of Stevenson's cases where children bear physical marks from past traumas despite being innocent victims in those lives. The article posits that unresolved emotions like hatred and fear are the primary causes of such imprints. The core idea is that karma is fundamentally about learning and experiencing both sides of every coin, and that hiding behind determinism is harmful.

Interlife Experiences and Reuniting with the Source

Evidence from interlife regression suggests that souls review past lives and plan future ones, often choosing adverse circumstances for learning experiences. The magazine challenges the notion of easily escaping the 'karmic round,' stating that souls are meant to experience life fully. The concept of 'reuniting with the Source' is also re-examined, with interlife subjects reporting a complex spiritual reality in ethereal realms where souls are trained for various roles. The implication is that even advanced souls have much more to experience than a simple reunion.

Ancient Egyptian Creation Myths and the Great Pyramid

The issue delves into ancient Egyptian creation myths, particularly the Heliopolitan version, which describes the universe emerging from a 'formless, watery void' named Nu. This is linked to the concept of a 'primeval mound' or vortex of energy, which is seen as a metaphor for creation. The article draws parallels between this myth and modern physics' 'Big Bang' theory, suggesting that the universe began from a 'point of singularity' or proto-atom. The Great Pyramid is presented as a representation of this 'shamanic world mountain' or 'primordial mound,' with its capstone symbolizing the 'seed-point' of creation. The idea that meteorites falling to Earth were believed to be 'semen droplets of the Creator' is also discussed, connecting to the concept of the universe being seeded.

The article highlights the symbolism of the pyramid and obelisk as representing the phallus and the human spine, with the capstone (Benben) symbolizing the 'seed-point' or 'sperm.' This is further linked to the concept of the soul ('ba') and the divine spark ('Akh'). The article also touches upon the physical attributes of the Great Pyramid, its original casing stones, and its potential visibility from the moon.

The Rational Spirituality Movement

The "Rational Spirituality Movement" is introduced as a platform for individuals seeking a spiritual framework based on evidence, reincarnation, and karma, rather than dogma. It emphasizes dual concepts of reincarnation and karma, drawing from near-death experiences and past-life regression evidence. The movement's ten precepts are listed, including ideas like souls reincarnating to advance karmically, the importance of free will, and the ethereal realms being governed by perception. The movement aims to help people understand their lives and offers communication via electronic newsletter, email, and a discussion forum.

Notable Quotes and Profiles

The issue includes notable quotes from Dr. Ian Stevenson, reflecting his views on science, mystical experiences, and the limitations of hypnosis. A profile of Ian Stevenson details his background, his transition from medicine to studying psychosomatic illnesses and then reincarnation, and his dedication to his research despite academic skepticism. The article also mentions journalist Tom Schroder's experience traveling with Stevenson for his book "Old Souls: The Scientific Evidence for Reincarnation."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the evidence-based exploration of spiritual concepts, the nature of consciousness, reincarnation, and karma. The editorial stance clearly favors a rational, evidence-driven approach to spirituality, contrasting it with religious dogma and materialism. The magazine promotes the idea that understanding these spiritual principles can lead to personal growth and a brighter future for humanity. The Rational Spirituality Movement is presented as a vehicle for this new understanding.

This issue of Sub Rosa, dated December 2005, focuses on "SEED-STONE OF CREATION" as its main theme, exploring ancient mysteries, symbolism, and esoteric knowledge. The magazine features reviews of several books, discussions on ancient cultures and their beliefs, and previews of upcoming publications.

Books by Philip Gardner and Gary Osborn

The issue highlights books by Philip Gardner and Gary Osborn, including "The Serpent Grail: The Truth Behind the Holy Grail, the Philosopher's Stone and the Elixir of Life," "Gnosis: The Secret of Solomon's Temple Revealed," and "The Shining Ones: The World's Most Powerful Secret Society Revealed." These books delve into ancient myths, secret societies, and hidden knowledge.

The Great Pyramid and the 'Divine Spark'

A significant portion of the magazine discusses the Great Pyramid, introducing the concept of the 'divine spark' as the soul or life-force of the Akh Creator, which is immortal and indestructible. This 'divine spark' is linked to the bennu bird (Phoenix) and reincarnation. The Great Pyramid is presented as representing this 'divine spark,' immersed in the material world as the zero-point and point of creation.

The Missing Capstone

The issue addresses the mystery of the Great Pyramid's missing capstone. It references Diodorus Siculus, who claimed to have seen the pyramid with its casing stones intact but lacking its apex stone. This is used as evidence that the capstone was never added, contradicting the ancient Egyptian veneration of the Benben. The authors suggest this might be for a symbolic reason, relating to humanity's unconsciousness of its own spirituality and immortality.

Hidden Knowledge and Symbolism

The magazine posits that there is a dual level of knowledge: one for the general masses and another for those 'in the know.' This is supported by the existence of mystifying symbols, codes, and messages in ancient and modern art and architecture that seem to convey a greater purpose for the pyramids. The symbolic location of the glass pyramid in Paris is mentioned as a potential reference to this secret knowledge.

The 'Cosmological System' and Quartz Crystals

An article explores how an ancient shamanic culture developed a 'cosmological system.' It highlights the properties of quartz crystals, noting their geometric growth pattern (triangle or pyramid) and their angle of 51.43 degrees, matching the Great Pyramid's sides. Quartz is described as a quantum converter that can transmit and be absorbed by biological matter. The King's Chamber walls, made of granite (90% quartz), are suggested as a place of initiation for out-of-body experiences.

'The Real Treasure is Not Always What's Inside the Box But is the Box Itself'

This quote emphasizes that the true value lies in understanding the structure and encoded information of the Great Pyramid itself, rather than just its contents. The sheer amount of information potentially encoded within the pyramid suggests a 'higher intelligence' as its builder.

Profile: Philip Gardner and Gary Osborn

Philip Gardner is described as an author with a Masters Degree in Strategic Marketing and numerous diplomas, who dedicated his time to research and writing after a career in marketing. Gary Osborn is presented as a writer on mysticism and esoteric traditions with diverse interests, who co-authors articles on ancient mysteries and human consciousness.

Review: 'Rosslyn and the Grail' by Mark Oxbrow and Ian Robertson

This review examines a book that aims to debunk myths surrounding Rosslyn Chapel. The authors, Oxbrow and Robertson, present historical research to counter claims about Templars, the Holy Grail, and secret connections. The review notes that while the book is a necessary read for its debunking approach, it might be tough for romantically-minded readers. It highlights specific myths debunked, such as the 'Masonic angels' being 19th-century additions and the identification of aloe and maize carvings.

Review: 'The Golden Thread of Time' by Crichton Miller

Reviewed by Philip Gardiner, this book is lauded as a mission of immense importance, dealing with climate change and the need for ancient knowledge to survive future crises. The 'Celtic Cross' rediscovered by Crichton Miller is presented as a vital tool for navigation and survival, emphasizing the wisdom of the ancients.

Review: 'The Secret Teachings of All Ages' by Manly P. Hall

This review describes Manly P. Hall's book as life-changing, an encyclopedic survey of esoteric teachings. It highlights Hall's critique of materialism and his aim to provide a comprehensive guide to ancient mysteries, secret societies, philosophy, myth, and religion. The reviewer praises the book's objective presentation and its value as a codex of mystical philosophies, particularly for its accessible 'Reader's Edition'.

Book Previews

The issue includes previews of upcoming books:

• The Egypt Code by Robert Bauval: Explores the connection between ancient Egyptian civilization and celestial events.
• I Have America Surrounded by John Higgs: A look at the life of counter-culture figure Timothy Leary.
• What Happens When We Die? by Sam Parnia: Investigates the survival of consciousness after death.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around ancient mysteries, esoteric knowledge, symbolism, and the critique of mainstream materialistic explanations for historical and cultural phenomena. The magazine appears to champion the idea of hidden knowledge and the importance of ancient wisdom, often contrasting it with conventional academic views. The editorial stance seems to favor in-depth research into less-explored aspects of history, mythology, and spirituality, encouraging readers to look beyond superficial interpretations and to consider alternative perspectives on reality and human consciousness.