Symbols of the Occult: A Directory of Over 500 Signs, Symbols and Icons

This beautifully illustrated volume explores the key signs and symbols of the occult. Chosen for their powerful symbolism, the illustrations in the book span from the myths and legends of the ancient world to the icons used in modern religion and science.

Symbols of the Occult examines over 500 symbols from history, art and culture by decoding their iconography and exploring their historical background and significance. Ordered by topic, it explores the key areas of astrology and cosmology; witchcraft and mysticism; satanism and demonology; science and alchemy; maths and sacred geometry; the natural world; and symbols of ancient, religious, and secret societies. Each topic is introduced by a short overview before featuring the key signs and symbols and exploring the variations available.

This decoding guide is the ultimate resource for the modern occultist.

With over 500 illustrations

Eric Chaline is a professional author and editor based in London. He has a special interest in religion and philosophy, especially in relation to East Asia, Mesoamerica, and India. He has written books on a range of subjects, such as history, travel, and health and fitness. His published works include The Book of Zen, The Book of Gods and Goddesses, Simple Path to Yoga, 101 Dilemmas for the Armchair Philosopher, Lost Treasures, History’s Worst Inventions, Fifty Minerals that Changed History, Ancient Greece, and Strokes of Genius: A History of Swimming (which won the Lord Aberdare Prize for best book on the history of sport in 2018). Publishers he has worked with include Quarto Publishing plc, Harper Collins, Firefly, New Holland Publishers Ltd, David and Charles Plc, and Reaktion Books Ltd. He has an MA in Japanese Studies and spent seven years in Japan where he studied Zen Buddhism and the martial arts. He also has a BA in Spanish and Latin American Studies.