Explore the Essential Teachings of the Ancients Serving as a theological basis for major world religions such as Christianity and Islam, the Hermetica has had an influence on Western culture that cannot be overstated. The collection of Greek texts-attributed by some to the legendary Hellenistic god Hermes Trismegistus (literally, Hermes the thrice great) in second-century Alexandria-is said to represent the divine philosophical and mystical practices of the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt (around 3000 BCE). In this creative, approachable introduction to the central ideas and essential teachings of the Hermetica, authors Timothy Freke and Peter Gandy offer a profoundly inspiring gateway to understanding and appreciating the profound wisdom of the ancients. Following an enlightening historical overview of the material contained in the massive Corpus Hermeticum, Freke and Gandy present a diverse sampling of Hermetic thought with extracts of Hermes's beautiful, poetic writings on topics including creation, the cosmos, human culture, prophecies, the Zodiac, incarnation of the soul, death, and immortality, and others. Along with each free-verse extract, the authors provide helpful commentary that explains the original text and places it in context for modern readers. An invaluable resource for initiates in Hermetic studies or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of human spirituality, mysticism, and consciousness, this book belongs on the bookshelves of any who seek a greater awareness of humanity's place in the cosmos. Timothy Freke and Peter Gandy are also the celebrated authors of The Jesus Mysteries, Jesus and the Lost Goddess, and The Laughing Jesus, as well as many other books on world spirituality.