The Alchemical Mandala: A Survey of the Mandala in the Western Esoteric Traditions

Adam McLean's greatest contribution to the rediscovery of alchemy are his numerous translations and new editions of hermetic and esoteric texts for which he unquestionably deserves our gratitude. However, I find his original writings on these subjects strangely insipid. After reading several of his books I still don't know whether he considers alchemy to be a purely spiritual discipline, or a laboratory endeavor, or a mixture of both. His pedantic use of what he considers logic seems to paralyze him mentally, thus preventing him from forwarding any specific hypotheses in the name of "objectivity". This fence-sitting can be quite exasperating, especially when couched in a rather bland writing style. Still, this and other books by McLean are worth reading.

As a relatively new student to esoteric philosophies and practices, I have found Adam Mclean's work to be extremely well-presented and documented, as far as possible for such material. Discernment of the vast myriad of publications available today requires great discipline and attention in order for seeking to be fruitful, and Adam Mclean's devotion to bring forth little known resources and point out helpful methods for understanding has great value. His work provides a light in the darkness. As someone just trying to get a grip on philosophical Alchemy and Hermeticism, I cannot thank him enough for his endeavors.

Thisis a very practical book. Starts with a very short introduction to the subject, and describes how alchemical drawings are the equivalent of the well-known Eastern mandalas. Then goes on to describe how to work with, and meditate on, the alchemical drawings in the book. 30 alchemical drawings with explanations follow, and you can meditate on, and integrate, the various symbols in the drawings. Besides it's very practical application, it is very good that the book draws attention to the fact that the West have an as deep and knowledgeable esoteric tradition as the East, and that the West have tools that are especially suitable for the follower of the Western Mystery Tradition. 5 stars!