The Holy Books of Thelema

The Holy Books of Thelema, also known as the Class A publications, are a collection of texts that hold a central position within the spiritual and philosophical system of Thelema, as founded by Aleister Crowley. These writings are considered sacred and are believed to have been inspired by or directly received from higher intelligences or spiritual entities. The texts contain poetic and symbolic language that conveys the core teachings, cosmology, and practices of Thelema. Some of the most significant Holy Books of Thelema include:

The Book of the Law (Liber AL vel Legis): This is the foundational text of Thelema, received by Aleister Crowley in 1904 during a series of communications with the entity Aiwass. The Book of the Law is divided into three chapters, each representing the voice of a different deity: Nuit, Hadit, and Ra-Hoor-Khuit. The book contains the essential teachings of Thelema, including the central tenet “Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.”

• Liber LXV (Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente): Also known as the Book of the Heart Girt with a Serpent, Liber LXV is a poetic and mystical text that explores the relationship between the individual soul and the divine. The book offers guidance on the process of spiritual transformation and the attainment of the Knowledge and Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel, a key concept in Thelema and Western esotericism.

• Liber VII (Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli): Also called the Book of the Bornless One or the Book of the Sapphire Stone, Liber VII consists of seven chapters, each attributed to one of the seven classical planets. The text delves into the process of spiritual initiation, and the journey towards self-realisation and the attainment of the True Will.

• Liber Tzaddi (Liber Tzaddi vel Hamus Hermeticus): This book contains a series of aphorisms and poetic verses that present the essential teachings of Thelema in a concise and enigmatic form. The text is designed to provide guidance and inspiration to the practitioner on their spiritual journey.

• Liber Ararita (Liber DCCCXIII vel Ararita): This is an enigmatic and highly symbolic text that explores the mystical and magical aspects of Thelema. The book presents a series of complex visualisations and meditations intended to guide the practitioner towards a deeper understanding of the divine mysteries.

• Liber Trigrammaton (Liber XXVII vel Trigrammaton): This is a short but highly cryptic work that presents a series of trigrams, similar to those found in the I Ching. The text is said to contain hidden wisdom and insights into the nature of reality, and serves as a source of contemplation and meditation for the practitioner.

These Holy Books, along with several others, form the foundation of Thelemic philosophy and practice. They provide insight into the spiritual, magical, and mystical aspects of Thelema, offering guidance and inspiration for those seeking to explore and engage with this rich and complex tradition.