Magic, or the Secret System

XIX

Preface.

the authors themselves seem to have. Furthermore, in the notes, I have not failed to assist those who are less practiced original: "den Ungeübtern"; referring to readers less familiar with the specialized or "hidden" vocabulary of theosophical and mystical texts..

Meanwhile, so as not to interrupt the thread of ideas with too many frequent digressions, everything that can serve for a more detailed explanation, insight, and assessment of certain main points is summarized in the second part. There, I have found the opportunity and occasion to say many things that will be pleasing to some of my contemporaries. Even more could have been said, had there not been the fear that the work might become too voluminous.

The true purpose of this writing will not be misunderstood by those to whom it is actually dedicated. These are none other than those who already possess some knowledge of such matters and find a taste for them—those who, in general, believe in a higher truth and direct their efforts toward that which lifts man out of the dust A metaphor for the material or mundane world, suggesting a spiritual elevation of the human condition. and [brings him] closer to the goal of his great course