Book 4

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Aleister Crowley's masterwork, Book 4, also known as Liber ABA, consists of four parts. Part I was first published in 1911 in London by Wieland & Co. Part II followed in 1912. Part III, also known as Magick in Theory and Practice was not published until 1929 by Lecram Press in Paris.

Contents

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Table of Contents of Book 4

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Part I

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Part II

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Part III

Describes and explains the magical alphbet, and the correspondances of the Qabalah as a convenient system of classification of the Universe.
The object of all ritual is the uniting of the Macrocosm with the Microcosm—in the language of mysticism, Union with God.
A classification of all formulæ under the headings of the elemental weapons—the Wand, Cup, Dagger, and Pantacle.
The formula of creation described and explained.
Formulæ of consecration, and of re-arrangement.
The formula of the redemption of mankind, extended by the Master Therion of F.I.A.O.F. to satisfy the new conditions of Magick imposed by progress.
The ceremony to endow a thing inert and impotent with balance motion in a given direction.
Formulæ of renunciation, and of the Great Work or Mystical Union with God.
  • And of certain other Words
Formulæ of Vitriol: ΑΓΑΠΗ; ΘΕΛΗΜΑ and AUMGN explained in detail.
Shows the importance of remembering previous incarnations, and gives practical instruction in the Art. The truth is to be apprehended by the correct translation of the symbolic language in which the memory speaks.
Any idea (below the Abyss) not equilibrated with its opposite contains in itself unmitigated duality or falsehood.
Instruction in the theory and practice of conjurations, 'The long strings of formidable words which road and moan through so many conjurations, have a real effect in exalting the consciousness of the magician to the proper pitch.'
Instructions in the theory and technique of circumambulations, changes of positions, and knocks or [knells]].
  • 11. Of Our Lady Babalon, and of the Beast Whereon she Rideth
The MASTER THERION will only communicate this section verbally to those fit to receive it.
Transformation can be achieved either by building up the appropriate body from its elements, or by taking some organism already existing and taking possession of the same.
Energy is liberated varying in quantity according to the size and health of the animal and in quality according to its mental and moral character.
  • And Matters Cognate
Concerning the Sacrifice veiled beneath the formula of the ROSY CROSS.
The victim in this instance is the Magician himself.
Consecration is the active dedication of a being to a single purpose. Banishing prevents its use for any other purpose; but it remains inert until consecrated.
  • With an account of the Nature and Nurture of the Magical Link
In every operation of Magick the Link must be properly made; i.e. the appropriate kind of means used in adequate measure, and applied in ways pertinant to the purpose.
  • 15. Part I. Of the Oath
The foundation of all work in MAGICK is an affirmation of the Will. An oath binds the Magician for ever.
The secret is 'Inflame thyself in praying.'
Theory and instruction to guard the Magician from obsession during and after an operation.
Theory and practice of the development of the powers of the astral body, particularly those of sight, travel and interpretation. Until this has been accomplished the Magician is not fitted to deal with the Invisible.
The art of communication with superior Intelligences through the medium of a suitable set of symbols. Five systems are discussed and compared with each other; astrology, geomancy, the Tarot, the Holy Qabalah, and the Yi King.
Their object is the invocation of a God, and the God is conceived of in a more or less material and personal fashion.
This is more important than any other ceremony of MAGICK. The whole of the force expended is completely reabsorbed, and in addition is that vast gain represented by the Abyss between Man and God.
Alchemical and magical symbology are reconciled. The object of the Alchemist is to take a dead thing, impure, valueless, and powerless, and transform it into a live thing, active, invaluable and thaumaturgic.
The Black Brothers are those who 'shut themselves up,' who refuse their blood to the Cup, who have trampled Love in the race of self-aggrandizement.
The powers of nature are to be trained and tamed to the saddle and bridle. 'My [[Adept]s stand upright, their heads above the heavens, their feet below the hells.'
A special section is devoted to Necromancy and Spiritism.
Instruction in mental and bodily training, which is the basis of the Great Work.
  • Appendices
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