Alchemy & Mysticism (The Hermetic Museum - Taschen) by Alexander Roob - Esoteric book review

My review of Alexander Roob's Alchemy & Mysticism published by Taschen Bibliotheca Universalis.
I hope you like it, I intend to make a few more similar videos on similarly esoteric topics in the coming weeks.
See it on Amazon.co.uk: amzn.to/2k2eBin
See it on Amazon.com: amzn.to/2lwFawL
DISCLAIMER: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Please *Like* the video and *Subscribe* to my channel as it helps to keep these videos sustainable.

[@angushuynh2127]

Woah, your wealth of knowledge assumed through your book collection is very refreshing and entertaining.

[@Freddy-Zamora-MX]

It is absolutly amazing.

[@osiriseyesall9866]

Psychology and Alchemy “jung” is SUCH an underrated study of Alchemical wisdom. The illustrations shared via nearly impossible texts to acquire are 🔥

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Fully agree, though fresh readers should know that it is DENSE, with absolutely no filler or breathing time. Every paragraph is 20 pages long and every 10 line sentence has multiple concise ideas overlapping which the author assumes you've assimilated by the time the next sentence starts... That said, nothing I've read comes close in terms of exposure and analysis. Is truly glorious!

[@osiriseyesall9866]

Foolish Fish (for those with eyes to see 🙈 the self taken name “FOOLISH FISH” is dead give away of someone whom is well read and whom seeks wisdom for pure motives. Just saying. A wise man once said some sht like “I know that I know noting” etc. just saying. (P.s.s you should possibly add series doing legit teaching etc. even on one small section of some text

[@osiriseyesall9866]

It’s a hard finely tuned craft.. to put out 20 - 30 min clip with small “lessons” (wrong word but ). It’s one thing to be well read and a seeker but then to teach. To deliver to viewers most of us at neophyte beta stage in game understandings 🪐

[@FoolishFishBooks]

@@osiriseyesall9866 :D I'll take that flattery ;P Hehe! Re. a teachings series, it is indeed part of the longer-term plan, though I'm not yet 100% sure what form it can take. My book reviews will come to a natural end when my shelf-space runs out (not long to go now), at which point only exceptional books will make the cut as they will have to replace the least desirable book of my collection... I don't have many of those ;P So, yes. a teaching video, slightly longer maybe, but probably only once or twice a week is likely to be the format going forward.

[@osiriseyesall9866]

Foolish Fish jung is rough for anyone. Requires one to be total nerd. (Sigh nerd alert). TBH I eased into young via man and his symbols solely just blown away with how the same archetypes have always existed in all cultures since forever though never coming into contact with etc.

[@mn5499]

The two best books I ever read on alchemy which can actually get you to the philosophy stone - Cathrine Mccoun -On becoming an alchemist -David Goddard - tower of alchemy

[@icekng456]

i have this book but i wish it was bigger, the pictures are so small and theres so much detail in the images that i would liked a much larger book

[@Dissenter]

There is a bigger version according to Amazon reviews, but seems to be out of print.

[@JJ-wi2uw]

Agreed.... FAR too small for the illustrations.

[@matthewclark944]

Got the Easton Press edition thinking it may be bigger...its not.

[@jjbentley9]

Rare to find others that really understand what occultism really is.ether they think it's evil or they just don't understand.I've always been drawn to esoteric teachings since I was very young.I've gain so much from it I know understand what spirituality really is. and what dogmatism is.if one don't know they often mistake one for the other as what happens with most Christians.yes alchemy very interesting I've always loved old alchemy art and woodcuts.

[@Parzival224]

It's a book for those who already know and need to have a complete collection of the whole symbols and paintings about that argument.

[@promiseclub8810]

Wowww. I searched this title and clicked this vid and what do you know its my new friend! I was like hey I know that voice

[@Freddy-Zamora-MX]

I agree with you as usual, I own the same book I bought it many years ago, mine is in spanish dough (I'm from México). It is a beautiful book, I found the text quite lovely, a little bit ambiguous but I think Alexander Roob was going exactly for that; you read the text, then you look at the pictures and then you try to get it, I didn't, but anyway I still find it very dear.

[@giuliazanetti1797]

Welcome back! This a topic I'm greatly fascinated about and it was a nice surprise to see that you're kind of an expert, so I'll take in consideration your book suggestions for beginners. I did study something when I took some early modern history classes at uni but it is really alchemy that I'm particularly interested about and that seems to be a taboo because no one talks about it, but at least I got to study some witchcraft history - my professor was a fan of Carlo Ginzburg. I'm actually an art history major and while I'm specializing in contemporary art, I'm always ready to look a bit back in time for this kind of things and I had no idea that the Taschen volume was more of an art book. I'll admit that I'm quite impressed and I'll see to add it to my book wishlist. I was lucky enough to see a brilliant exhibition in Italy about the connection between art and magic last year, the catalog is stunning and in my opinion a little gem, the only thing is that it's in Italian, so if you understand the language I highly suggest it. It's called "Arte e Magia. Il fascino dell'esoterismo in Europa" and you should be able to find it on Amazon without difficulty. Many many pictures! By the way, thanks for your awesome videos, they are a joy to watch. :)

[@morebento]

Thanks I just ordered the Jung and Alchemy book. I’ve had the Alchemy & Mysticism book for a few years, it’s lovely

[@morebento]

Denis Poisson Jung is a lot like that 😃

[@EveryoneWhoReadsitMustConverse]

Yes, I found this book a couple years ago and have thumbed through it sooo many times, beautiful!

[@zenarcher_awats]

The Taschen Hermetic Museum book is really, as you mentioned, an Art book. It’s a completist’s compendium of magnificent images inspired by alchemy. The artwork is beyond beautiful-mystifying,complex, alluring. The book is small but mighty and weighs a ton. Reading it for understanding is an exercise in futility but the art cataloguing is first rate.

[@drewyou0187]

It has latin and hebrew that should be deciphered per the instruction... that's where the secrets lie

[@WilliamFMarinho]

Oh welcome back! Love your videos. I bought a book after i watched your video (Arthur Rackham A life with illustration) and recently finished reading. Really loved it. Thank you for the videos!

[@RebelleFleur5]

I want the whole Taschen library. 😍😍😍

[@VomitPalace]

I love this book! So cool to see you go over it!

[@eleyanalake1069]

The Art of Inner Alchemy!!! Yes, Inner Transformation!!! Thank you!!!

[@expecto1982]

Bread Dolls are great. They have more sensitive hearing and sense of smell. It’s fun to read but go out and smell the roses. And we always loved music, don’t forget that. Listen to the birds sing and the insects buzz and the leaves rustle. Many great pieces of music were composed from noticing patterns in nature sounds.

[@AP-nj1mr]

Shams-e-Tabrizi was an alchemist. He introduced Rumi to it.

[@SlowPersuit]

Giggle- I thought "that would be a nice compliment to my fave piccy book on esoteric stuff, which looks just like this!". Grabbed said copy of.... Alchemy & Mysticism, Alexander Roob! I got my copy from that most esteemed of retailers, a little known and difficult establishment known as "Oxfam". Two pounds and fifty pence of your finest coin, Sir! I must say it is a wonderful book- it is about my favourite reference item. Although you refer to it not as a "learning" item, and I as "reference", I feel it is actually more than that. As Magick would seem to be associated with the visual accessing of the subconscious, one could argue that images are a form of key to the Magickal mind. I find looking up (some of) these ancient (and often mysterious) images a trigger. I also often find myself drawn to the sheer humanity of these images- paintings from many hundreds of years ago beautifully reflecting the human experience. A wonderful book.

[@FoolishFishBooks]

I love this, and relate in a very strong way! Visual stimulus for deep experience is one of the main reasons I own so many art books...

[@lulusheartcenteredalchemy]

Oh dear lord I just ordered both those books ! So many beautiful books!

[@ganderstein3426]

The mysterious experiences I've had are jaw-dropping. They've lead me here to this stop along my path.

[@kanishasoulswisdom123]

very informative.. thank you🙏

[@HattoriDenzo]

I believe the alchemist wanted the real disciples to realize the philosopher stone is actually our mind to transform formlessness into matter. Hence, the proof of God.

[@harmony331000]

I ordered this and its coming today....It’s my first alchemical book purchase & he just said it’s a terrible place to start lol🤦🏼‍♀️😔 thought it would be much bigger! At least I’m an artist so I’m down for an ‘art book’ lol

[@expecto1982]

It’s a good place to start by recognizing the different environments, for example, Neptune, and Venus where you are on.

[@expecto1982]

Great thing about death’s end is that we have more time to calm down and focus and develop deeper thinking and analytical skills.

[@cheddarcheese5476]

I wonder if you already have the Book of Symbols by Taschen as well. I highly recommend it.

[@Irishjay_94]

Wow, I've just purchased most of Taschen's books on Esoteric. I don't know why, but I've just been drawn to explore these mysteries and mysticism and look at many interpretations of these symbols, etc. but I have to say I'm a newbie, so yer advice to get my hands on Jung's Psychology and Alchemy is greatly appreciated - I will do that when can :) I'm just going in with an open mind, and even if their mainly artistic expressions more than explanatory books, I bet I'll still gain a lot of wisdom and I bet inspiration to further even deeper. If you've any tips that would be greatly appreciated. Apparently a psychic medium sees an inner Magician energy in me, so that was funny! lol I've just no idea why I'm suddenly drawn to all these signs lately but its interesting, but very new all the same. I just hope to find my purpose with it in time.

[@uppitypeasant9781]

Would you consider doing a video where you give a tour of your bookshelves? Pointing out your favorite books as well?

[@angushuynh2127]

Ooo I'd be patiently waiting for that video!

[@hectorrobertocontrerasmiranda]

Thank you! This book has been waiting in my cart for almost a year, now I know it can wait a little longer but it's definitely coming home

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

I just got alchemy and mystery in the mail💕💕💕 on your recomendation. I am reading du Quette's book right now and Jung's book is on my wish list. My video is uploading as we speak! I love your videos and I LOVE your book collection.

[@FoolishFishBooks]

:o Do link your video when you get a chance :)

[@eponaalbion]

Check out the Irish annuls, 4 roots races, Tuath De Danaan (Not spelt that way) thank you for your wisdom.

[@Sage.Craft.]

I love Alchemy and Mysticism. Great Book and also have Thoth Tarot but yet to read it, will probably pick it up soon.

[@hgjjjcgjbgujki2660]

Please do “the golden chain of homer” original 1723 print! Nice video by the way

[@sam-bj2hp]

I wish they'd print these kind of books on regular paper, the glossy pages just don't feel right :/

[@AT-dx9pf]

Ive just started reading it but I think it has potential to be a very helpful book that you can read through like any other, not just a reference book or a "coffee table" book. I have read a good bit of stuff on Qabalah, Mythology, Tarot, so Im not, intellectually, a total beginner but if someone has a bit of knowledge about western esoterica I think this would be a solid place to learn about Alchemy and esoteric doctrine in general. Its the best book on Alchemy I had so Im reading it and it seems solid if you dont mind reflective reading where you stop every page and reflect on the picture a bit. Really thats the most helpful way to learn the material anyway. Not sure how much one should know going into it as I haven't read most of it yet but I'm thinking an advanced beginner (intellectually, again) if that makes any sense.But anyone could probably read it. It's just a matter of getting the most out of it.

[@JJ-wi2uw]

I recently purchased Alchemy & Mysticism (The Hermetic Museum - Taschen) by Alexander Roob and considering the number of illustrations in this book was rather disappointed with the small size of the book which doesn't do the illustrations any justice. My copy is a mere 20.5 cm tall by 14.5 cm wide and 4cm thick.

[@samiam3297]

Honestly probably my second or fourth book bought before taking my free fall dive to learn more of the "work". And although not discussed i agree no religious study is complete without dipping the pen into the esoteric/mystical. Anyhow as for this book if just for the pictures was worth more than what i paid! Couldn't believe i was getting all "this" (art) and paid just "that"!!! ...birds of a feather...HA! Cheers!

[@aromero2023]

No manejo Inglés porque no es mi idioma natal, pero pude entender lo necesariamente exacto, gracias!!

[@FoolishFishBooks]

I also don't speak Spanish, but I understood your kind words 😁 Thank you!

[@markalhazred1182]

Greetings New subscriber. Marvelous channel. I have both the paperback and the hardcover of Roob's book and have observed the hardcover to be noticably abridged compared to the paperback.

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Oh! Thank you for the heads up!

[@markalhazred1182]

@@FoolishFishBooks My pleasure. You are most welcome. Just checked both volumes: hardcover - 573pp, paperback - 711pp.

[@jaermoo]

how can I motivate myself to read at all? :( I have quiet some books here by now and simply dont read em.. why am I like this :(

[@TheHokkaidogaijin]

I am fascinated by your book collection, and was wanting to know if there is any possibility you could make a video or type it here in the comments top 10 esoteric/occult books that are a must have for people interested in the topic? Some books that I have come across in my lifetime that have made a big impression in my life are Bucklands Book of Witchcraft, The Golden Dawn, A course in Miracles, Carlos Castaneda, Dan Millmans Peaceful Warrior, Enochian Workbook, Celestial Sanctum - AMORC,. Thanks

[@chompachangas]

That is a beautiful book. I have a Taschen book on Botanical art that is absolutely gorgeous.

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Rachel definitely do some of the nicest at books out there!

[@StellaWembley]

What would be a good esoteric book for beginners please?

[@Danthehorse]

Re the Jung book, not available in the UK, did you have it sent to you from the States?.... And do you know if the Routledge Edition which IS available in the UK, is comparable?

[@Learnelectronics738]

Hello brother very good thank you

[@ellaparie7624]

😍😍😍 Tarot is Thora read backward. It's a wonderfull book😍😍😍

[@matthewmackenzie3504]

Love your collection

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Thanks, @The Theorist of Everything 😁

[@13MNG]

Nice. What about Sefart, The Divine Software? Latest Bible Code inside.

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

I love your channel

[@kimbast3977]

Thank You

[@handyalley2350]

i have this. there are two editions i think i have the softcover ver. (not sure which edition.)

[@syedyhassan]

Your just like me I love Greek mythology and Norse mythology

[@genesis650]

I'm in love with your beautiful books

[@FoolishFishBooks]

So am I😋! Do you have a collection of your own? Or anything else you collect maybe?

[@genesis650]

@@FoolishFishBooks yes, but no where near as spectacular as this. I'm totally in love with philosophy, psychology, ancient history and occultism. So I'm not going to watch your esoteric playlist and buy some of your suggestions! 😊 Your library is like my dream 😂😍

[@quorraquar2677]

💜

[@vganjoo]

Hi. I'm just starting to explore alchemy and mysticism. Which book do you recommend other than two mentioned here? Thank you. 🌻

[@andrewwheelerguitar]

Hi Foolish Fish, I have a question on a particular series of books. Is there any way to reach you?

[@FoolishFishBooks]

You can go ahead and ask here

[@andrewwheelerguitar]

I was trying to learn about author LCF NS. Have you ever heard of him/her? I bought "Ecclesia Luciferi". Apparently this author had a prolific year, publishing several books. The only thing I see about this author is their Amazon homepage. Apparently there is an order in which one should read the books; I really keep hitting brick walls.

[@FoolishFishBooks]

@@andrewwheelerguitar I'm afraid I'm not familiar 😕 good luck with your searches! Maybe try checking the date of publication in the Amazon details.

[@simonhendrickx6884]

Please do a review of the exegesis

[@lukehasledine3312]

On a different note. What's you opinion on the book called magical states of consciousness, in its practical uses? I noticed that you have copy of it in one of you other video's. Many thanks

[@FoolishFishBooks]

I think the introduction (first half of the book) is fantastic, but the guided meditations are written in a language designed to make you lose focus - nominalisations, passive forms, all used by hypnotists to force your mind into day-dreaming about something else, so it makes focusing on what you're supposed to be imagining very hard. I don't believe this was the intention of the authors, but rather that they were simply used to writing in this style which some people find sounds more 'academic' or 'authoritative'.

[@LilChiefMagistrate]

Have you bought the illustrated Secret History of the World by Mark Booth (Jonathan Black)? I jusy got it on eBay for $7. It is a beautiful book and so fascinating. It covers the history of the world that apparently all mystery schools in ancient history taught their initiates, and what all of the secret societies teach their initiates as world history. It also explains how thr mystery school were forced underground and transitioned into secret societies, because of the rise of Catholicism after the council of Nicaea and Constantine's death. Its just such a beautiful hardcover book on esoteric history. I am surprised you haven't done a review of it! I wish to send you pictures but don't know how on here

[@ThunderboltWisdom]

This is the book that changed my life. I once was a fact based, scientific-only kind of guy but on reading this book my whole outlook changed. It allowed me to consider the other, non-rational side of life. I bought the illustrated hardback version too and it is beautiful. A great read and great visually too. And an interesting point about the author, Black / Booth, is that he was invited to join a secret society by a friend of his but declined as it meant he wouldn't have been able to write about these subjects, and would have had to keep secret some of the more esoteric points that are at the core of the book. Can't recommend this book highly enough.

[@mehedihassan1737]

what is non heat metal

[@mehedihassan1737]

fireproof metal

[@porteal8986]

found this book in spanish at a random vintage store. It's amazing, but I can barely read it. good thing it's mostly pictures

[@disgruntledoctopus4560]

Currently 8 quid on Amazon!

[@scottmassino3051]

What’s the publication year of your copy? I hear beyond certain years that the production value went down, along with the page count. But if that’s just hearsay, I’m all in on this if yours is intact and a newer copy. Thanks in advance!

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Ah, that's news to me. My copy is from 2015, hope that helps...

[@annamae6021]

Can😳.....can I go through your library?🥺 pretty please 🙏

[@Inception1338]

Tell me how you buy the time to focus on reading books all day. I will reward you, if you hand me the keys to that secret.

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

I like heavy books :)

[@javiert7930]

Hello, this edition is about 100 pages less than the first edition. Regards

[@neetweasel6277]

+JAVIER T why do you suppose that is? Are they omitting important information?

[@brimerwelpippy4972]

Damn. I just bought this book as a beginner, hearing your intro kinda sucks 🤣 At least i will get to enjoy the many symbols and artworks. Couldn't resist purchasing when I saw all the William Blake.

[@nicholasheiendgemshei3949]

I have this book

[@martin36369]

Wrong, Alchemy was & is also about turning base metals into gold, as well as thr transmutation of the Self

[@famulu3794]

Yes sir! Oh great One!🤘😜

[@ZOmi-sx1oh]

Hey man can u recommend me some esoteric books

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Yes! Visit my channel, and enjoy! 😄😂

[@annamae6021]

It had to be shown through symbolism ☺️

[@expecto1982]

And Death’s End is about Venus….

[@expecto1982]

This is on Bread Doll. Hank is better to be lighter in voice. Yeah you sound younger that way and feel lighter in spirit that way yourself. The ladies do love clean and sweet and gentle and intelligent.

[@expecto1982]

The age of the male macho is way over.

[@expecto1982]

Well said about personal transformations.

[@mehedihassan1737]

non heat metal

[@skiwalker9041]

You are inaccurate in saying Jung knew anything about real Alchemy.

[@FoolishFishBooks]

Reference please. Or at least elaborate. I can see a way in which your statement can be seen as acceptable, but I disagree with that point of view, so it's not my job to defend it. It's yours.

[@ReptilianXHologram]

@@FoolishFishBooks He or she really means to say Jung didn't know anything about the art of physical Alchemy. Jung is all about the spiritual Alchemy.

[@martinwilliams9866]

It's generally considered that the "The Alchemist's Handbook" by Frater Albertus changed many peoples' viewpoints regarding physical chemical alchemy as distinct from psychological symbolic alchemy

[@skiwalker9041]

@@ReptilianXHologram Physical Alchemy is Spiritual Alchemy as well, as it is about the perfect union of Spirit within a perfected matter, such as Ra (spirit from the sun) Joining with Osiris (prepared matter, "Incorruptable flesh"). There is also the union of polarity, of the masculine and feminine principles such as what is fixed and what is volitile, as well as a perfect union of elementary states, of Sulfur and Mercury, Sun and Moon, of the outer with the inner and the upper with the lower, of that which is above with that below. Alchemy is really about the making of 2 perfect substances, while the intention is not set on changing lesser developed metals into Silver and Gold, yet the intent is in the creation of 2 very powerful medicines, medicines which make miracles happen. These 2 substances are as well likely the 2 fruits from the 2 trees described in the Nag Hammadi texts amongst some other more popular texts, as well as this very medicine I speak of, therein mentioned the "pouch of medicine" and an "Unguent box" given to Peter and the deciples by the Lord and told to "go into the city from whence you came called habitation, there heal all the sick who believe in my name". These 2 stones, one white, the other red, are likely the true substances symbolized by the Eucharist, as the 2 substances taken together, first the white then the red, would be as the "Feast of Transfiguration", that marriage supper of the lamb, of the feminine bride (soul) with masculine groom (spirit) within the dust of the earth, salt of the earth, the flesh of the body, becoming perfected as the 3 are united in an unbreakable union for eternity, never again tasting of death, fear, sickness or despair of anykind. But who really knows Truth? The seeker must seek untill they have found. 🔥🌞🌹🌝💧 🔺🌞🔯🌝🔻 🦅🌞🕌🌝🕊

[@ReptilianXHologram]

@@martinwilliams9866 his book is not the one to read if you want to truly understand the physical Alchemy. The book you should read is “The Book of Aquarius” although it doesn’t spell everything out fully in simple terms but it is the closest I have seen. If you look at the Splendor Solis 22 colored plates it shows you the physical changes your “sacrifice” goes through in order to become the “Stone.”

[@MsGnor]

Jung's 🧠🌟

[@timothytodd5795]

Can you give me some good movies on this ?

[@psychedianic]

Are you familiar with Adam McLean's alchemical study courses? In one he offers to teach people how to read alchemical texts. I haven't seen it but it seems like one would need some kind of formal instruction to fathom all the coding inherent in alchemical works.

[@psychedianic]

@@FoolishFishBooks Alchemical studies certainly are engaging! I love a good mystery. =) I'm guessing you're referring to the work by Dr Stephen Skinner, though I saw there is a Splendor Solis tarot deck due out in June via Alchimia Pubilshing: www.alchimiapublishing.com/splendor-solis-tarot/ Such a lovely deck!