THE GOLDEN STAR [Hardcover]

The Golden Star is a most unusual book. Described as 'A Book For Initiates' and subtitled 'A Mystic Crescendo in Twelve Visions', it relates the most advanced Occult Teachings, from the remotest times of antiquity until today. Sincere students might search in vain through a thousand 'occult' books and not find a fraction of the remarkable information it contains.

The book begins with two Egyptian pilgrims, Ma-u and Ma-uti, watching a glorious sunset:
"At one unforgettable moment the sun sent out five purple rays from between the massed clouds, which like a hand of benediction overspread the pair; whilst a path of molten gold stretched from Ra to them, as if inviting them to stride along that road to glory under His protecting hand. An invitation and Initiation into the Mysteries."

With the arrival of Neteru-Hem, 'A messenger from the Divine', the two seekers begin a spiritual journey, which is unlike anything else in Occult literature. Descending first into the 'Domains of Night', Ma-u and Ma-uti embark on a quest for knowledge under the guiding hands of Neteru-Hem. Each of the twelve chapters is prefaced by an inspired poem and associated with a particular precious stone. These are, in order: Jet, Alexandrite, Emerald, Black Opal, Sardonyx, Gold-Stone, Ruby, Sapphire, Moonstone, Crystal, Pearl and Diamond.

During their remarkable journey, the two pilgrims are taught about the real nature of matter and spirit and the ways in which these two entirely opposite principles are interwoven. The many subjects covered include the origins of the universe, witchcraft, magic (both black and white), spiritualism, the inhabitants of the four elemental kingdoms (Gnomes, Sylphs, Undines and Salamanders), psychism, clairvoyance and clairaudience, true, spiritual vision, divine inspiration, the occult constitution of man and how to attain cosmic consciousness and oneness with the Divine. Along the way, Ma-u and Ma-uti encounter scenes of terrifying horror, transcendent beauty and spiritual and material beings of all kinds - both good and bad, leading in the end to the very throne of God and an apocalypse of glory which it is impossible to describe in this short review.

The author avers that the 'Golden Star' rests on the solid foundation of the Ancient Wisdom, garnered together over thousands of years, which the profound learning of the greatest of teachers, aided by Divine Inspiration, has been able to record for our minds to dwell on. Several of the sayings of Neteru-Hem are based on parts of the 'Secret Doctrine' - that great collection of ancient words of wisdom, so patiently assembled by the Russian occultist and mystic, H P Blavatsky. Those readers who value her wonderful teachings will find much to inspire and enlighten them in 'The Golden Star.'

I have no doubt that this is indeed a 'Book for Initiates' in the best sense of that much misused and misunderstood word; a refreshing refuge of Peace and Joy and a Radiant star of Hope in this age of threatening darkness. But one does not have to be an 'initiate' to enjoy and benefit from the 'Golden Star.' Anyone who is sincerely seeking the answers to life's profoundest questions will find a treasure trove of real knowledge and wisdom within its pages, unencumbered by dogma, 'psychobabble' and misleading interpolations. J Michaud is to be heartily congratulated for presenting the deepest spiritual truths and mysteries in a clear and simple manner which anyone can understand.

I first read this book in my early twenties and after more than thirty years am still finding new revelations and insights within its wonderful pages. If you are genuinely seeking occult knowledge and truth you will not be disappointed by this book. Although long out of print, it is readily available from both Amazon and a wide range of booksellers in the USA, Europe and UK.