William D. Wharton Libri

Hermetic philosophy emphasizes the excellence of the soul through understanding, as articulated by Hermes in his teachings. The Corpus Hermeticum, a vital blend of Greek and Egyptian thought, is a cornerstone of the Western esoteric tradition. Composed in Greek between the first and third centuries A.D., it was later translated into Latin during the Renaissance by Marsilio Ficino. These writings, attributed to Hermes Trismegistus, were pivotal for Hermetic societies in Late Antique Alexandria, aiming to awaken gnosis—the realization of unity between the individual and the Supreme. This new translation of The Corpus Hermeticum captures the original's inspirational intent, while The Way of Hermes also includes the first English translation of the recently rediscovered manuscript, The Definitions of Hermes Trismegistus to Asclepius. This collection of aphorisms serves to strengthen the mind during meditation. With the right mental orientation, one can achieve a state of pure perception, revealing the true face of God. This document holds significant value for contemporary students of gnostic studies, offering insights into the spiritual path's workings. The work features contributions from notable scholars in Hermetic studies and Classical history.