Ancient Indian Alchemy
Ancient Indian alchemy began with the Vedas, developed with yoga, and blossomed into Tantra.
Eastern Mystical Tradition
Ancient wisdom, present clarity.
Delve into the esoteric teachings of Daoism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and other Eastern systems of inner transformation and universal order.
The Royal Art: An Introduction to Alchemy
The Royal Art, known technically as symbolic or speculative alchemy, is the art of eternal transformation. In illumined circles it is the art of doing nothing.
Chinese Chan Buddhist Monasticism: The Spring of Zen
This article follows the story of Chan from its earliest roots in India and Daoist China, through its flowering in Tang and Song dynasties, and outward into the temples, poetry, and practices of East Asia.
Zen’s Founding Scripture
Explore the founding scriptures — the Lankavatara Sutra, the Outline of Practice, and Trust in Mind — through which the Chan spirit first found its voice.
Zen Literature: Essential Reading for the Student of Zen
In these pages, we will follow the unfolding of Zen from its Indian and Chinese foundations to its flowering in Japan and its transmission to the West.
Chinese Buddhist Monasticism
Chinese Buddhist monasticism is one of the most enduring and transformative religious traditions in East Asia.
Freemasonry and Zen: A Contemplative Brotherhood
The Zen Master, the Master Mason, and the scientific humanist may use different tools—zafu, square and compasses, or microscope—but all seek the same outcome: a well-built world and a well-formed person.
Daoist Monasticism in China
This article explores the historical evolution, doctrines, architecture, and lived practices of Daoist monasticism.
The Confucian Monastic Tradition
This article explores the hidden architecture of Confucian monastic life: its moral ideals, educational institutions, meditative practices, and enduring legacy in Chinese culture.
The First Monks Rise in the East: The Birth of Monasticism
This article traces the delicate thread that links the barefoot sages of ancient India with the Zen monks of Japan, the Christian mystics of the desert, and the Buddhist nuns of today.
Buddhist Alchemy
Explore the hidden tradition of Buddhist Alchemy, where ancient spiritual science meets inner transformation.
Ancient Conceptions of Spirit and Deity
Conceptions of the spirit have always been diverse. Physical bodies may be conceived of as being mere manifestations of immortal spirits, or gods. Thus gods are simply the forces and elements of nature;