Book Title and Author: The Path of the Sacred Hermit by Avallach Emrys
Status?: Finished
My overall rating of the book: 10/10
How does this book relate to my magickal practice?: While I don’t have any interest in being a Pagan Monastic (like a monk or nun), I’ve always enjoyed a structured religious and spiritual routine.
My personal thoughts/opinions: This book was a very quick read with short, concise chapters. There’s not a lot of filler, which I fully appreciated, and so much information is packed into smaller chapters. The author does exactly what he sets out to do - he lays the foundation and groundwork for someone to begin their own monastic practice, whether on their own or with a community.
An interesting quote from the book: “Monastic spiritual practice is an important aspect of many religious traditions, including Paganism. For Pagans, monasticism serves as a way to deepen one’s connection with the divine, as well as to cultivate a sense of discipline and focus in one’s spiritual life.”
I chose this quote because it really hits home on something I’ve been feeling lately - a lack of discipline within myself and my spiritual practice. Sometimes I let my daily things get in the way of my spiritual practice, and that’s not something I have ever wanted to happen.
All in all, would I recommend this book?: Yes, if you’re interested in more daily devotion and structure to your religious practice.
A more in-depth book review is available on my website.