Warrior Cults: A History of Magical, Mystical and Murderous Organizations

This book examines and describes some of the world's most significant arcane cults which have been, throughout history, associated with atrocities which have often involved the use of magic, secrecy and mysticism. Terror and violence became their unmistakable hallmark. Each of these secret groups is looked at separately, enabling direct comparisons to be made between them. Uniting them all was a common philosophy of extreme violence and murder. They range from the mystery cults of classical Greece, the secret religion of Mithras and other Roman Cults, the sinister Knights Templar and their Middle Eastern Assassins , who were active during the Crusades, the 19th century Indian Thugs, the Japanese ninja clans and the Triads. Wherever and whenever they flourished, these warrior cults had their own strict codes and rituals. and today they provide a fascinating and disturbing insight into the perennial desire to unite for a single purpose. When combined with murderous and bloodthirsty compulsions, these groups became feared and reviled. In the modern world, with its equivalent proliferation of religious, political and criminal sects and organisations, warrior Cults is a timely and intriguing source of reference and comparison.

Paul Elliott's book is very well-researched and entertaining to read. It doesn't go into a great deal of detail but the author manages to fit quite a bit of information into the seven chapters. The cults covered are the Greek and Roman Mystery cults (one chapter each), the Knights Templar, the Assassins of the Middle East, the Thugs of India, the Ninja clans and the Chinese Boxers. Each chapter stands by itself but there is a fair amount of cross-referencing which helps tie the whole work together. Stylistically, there are a couple of very minor problems such as strange grammar (which may just be a difference between American and British conventions) and the odd use of exclamation points here and there. These shortcomings are easily overlooked, however. If you are interested in history, martial arts or the truth behind certain myths and legends, this book is for you.

This is a one of a kind book about cults I hope they make #2. It was very informative.