Theurgy and the Soul by Gregory Shaw

This book is a must read for those interested in Platonic Philosophy and the Hieratic arts. This may seem like a niche community, but its implication stretches to many disciplines and fields. The main gist of this work is in expounding on Iamblichus’s ideas of theurgy. It also establishes his objections and differences concerning another Platonist Philosopher Porphyry. Shaw develops the idea that Iamblichus’s views on theurgy advocate for a more ritualized approach to assent or apotheosis. One that surpasses the philosophic intellectualism of the Logos. Ranging from what we may call ceremonial magick to more abstract exercises. Suggesting a stage in which on must move beyond the intellectualizing of principles and ideas into a more active experience-based practice that resembles some Vedic Tantric Practices and methodologies. Shaw also holds that Iamblichus saw his art as completely in line with Plato and his subsequent school. It is a great read and work of scholarship.