Symbols of Sacred Science

When it comes to symbolism Rene Guenon is probably the ultimate authority of the century. His writing is characterized by a detached intelligence, if it can be said so; he doesn't try to make the audience agree with him. He tells the things as they are, whether people understand that seems not to be his concern. His insights are illuminated and illuminating. It is incredible how effortlessly he seems to bring meanings to light providing examples from different eras and civilization, showing that symbolism is truly a science, in the original meaning of the word, that is at the root of all things.

Excellent research.

Guenon's grasp of traditional symbolism was unparalleled in the western world at the time of writing; and this work remains an invaluable entry into a very broad topic. I could not recommend the work more highly. The binding is not terrible (as a different reviewer claims), and the content is laid out in an easily accessible manner. The translation is also very readable.

Was not what I expected. Looking for a book of actual sacred symbols and their meaning.

Do not buy the softcover edition of this book, it just falls apart from even the most gentle use.

Guenon's Symbols of Sacred Science prooves to be one of his most important works, wonderfully translated and in an impressive new edition.

Where Rene Guenon's 'Reign of Quantity' presented in awe-inspiring clarity a truly devastating critique of the modernist deviation and a detailed exposition of traditional eschatology, 'Symbols of Sacred Science' is a magisterial opus on the symbolism of the primordial tradition. Guenon's erudition, discernment, sensitivity to nuance and context, and penetrating quality of vision in combination with his deep conformation to the true spirit of Tradition make him uniquely qualified to explore these recondite areas of quintessential Esoterism. Guenon's chapter-essays deal comprehensively with various spheres and aspects from cosmological, initiatory and artisanal symbolism, symbolic weaponry to house-building and architecture and Guenon's essays on the minutiae of these perennial mythologems and their metaphysical implications are quite simply exemplars of traditionalist exegesis at its most authentic. This substantial and rich work represents Guenon's perennialist hermeneutics at their most mature, profound and beautiful flowering and is as solid a grounding in the true meanings of traditional esoteric symbols and their interpretative subtleties as anyone could wish for. These marvellous essays provide a true wealth of insight, a veritable treasury of the primordial doctrine 'Symbols of Sacred Science'is a precious key resource that one goes back to again and again. Along with 'The Reign of Quantity' and 'The King of the World','Symbols of Sacred Science'is undoubtedly an essential masterwork by the great French-Egyptian metaphysician and initiate. A wonderful and valuable book indeed.

Useful book. Good study.