This illustrated book traces the history of an unlikely force in the shaping of Western civilization: the use of psychedelic mushrooms, namely by a secret society called the cult of Mithras. Nero was the first emperor to be initiated by the group's "magical dinners," and most of his successors embraced the ritual as a source of spiritual transcendence. The cult was officially banned after the Conversion, but aspects of their rituals were assimilated or co-opted by Christianity, and the brotherhoods persist today as secret societies such as the Freemasons. This is a fascinating exploration of a powerful force kept behind the scenes for thousands of years.
- ISBN13 9780872864702
- Publish Date 8 September 2011
- Publish Status Active
- Out of Print 13 December 2014
- Publish Country US
- Imprint City Lights Books
- Format Paperback (US Trade)
- Pages 290
- Language English