The Greek Magical Papyri in Translation, Including the Demotic Spells: Texts v. 1

This is one wild journey. The ancient world can teach us so much. A fascinating look into the past and beautifully preserved. Absolutely incredible read.

I recently purchased "The Greek Magical Papyri in Translation, Including the Demotic Spells: Texts v. 1" and have found it to be a profound addition to my library of historical texts. This volume, a comprehensive translation of the Papyri Graecae Magicae, offers a fascinating glimpse into the magical practices and religious beliefs of Greco-Roman Egypt. The editor has done a remarkable job of compiling and translating these ancient texts, making them accessible to a modern audience without sacrificing scholarly rigor. The translations are clear and accompanied by extensive notes that provide necessary context and interpretations, which are invaluable for both the casual reader and the serious student of antiquity. What makes this book particularly special is its inclusion of Demotic spells, alongside the more commonly seen Greek texts. This inclusion broadens the scope of the collection and provides a richer, more diverse picture of ancient Egyptian magic practices. The book is not just a translation; it is also an academic resource. The introduction and commentary throughout the book help in understanding the complex rituals and theologies embedded in these texts. For anyone interested in the history of magic, religion, or late antiquity, this book is an essential resource. Whether you are a scholar, a practitioner of the esoteric arts, or simply someone with a keen interest in history, "The Greek Magical Papyri" offers both education and wonder. It's a window into a world that, though long gone, continues to fascinate and influence. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this intriguing aspect of ancient culture.

Though long overdue a new translation, one which will be hopefully coming soon, Betz's work on the PGM is still a masterpiece both in the breadth and scope of the work included, even given the many errors that are extant in the meaning and translation of the text itself. Personally I believe that anyone who is at all interested in Western esotericism needs this in their library, not only as a reference book but also as an aid in their understanding of the history of magic both in its theurgical form but also in its ceremonial one as well. As regards printing, then my only one fault that I find with such works and this is not just pointed towards the PGM alone, is the cost of such works like this in the hardback form (I do so prefer hardbacks) and one that I think that publishers should address in considering their customers. There are books, of which in some cases the hardback is over £100 whilst the paperback is under £30.00. I believe this discrepancy does not warrant an explanation of the hardback having a higher cost due to it being printed in a limited run.

Many ceremonial magicians will have heard of "The Bornless Ritual" or "The Preliminary Invocation of the Goetia," which was made famous by Aleister Crowley. The original version of that very ritual is contained in this book - it's referred to as "The Stele of Jeu The Papyrist" - and it makes interesting reading to see how the ancient text was altered by contemporary magicians. In summary therefore, this is a large book of rituals cognate with or contemporary to the original Bornless Ritual, i.e. from the Ptolemaic era of Ancient Egypt. Admittedly there are a few eye-of-newt and tongue-of-bat type of spells, but there are also many beautiful invocations to the gods and godesses of ancient Greece and Egypt. I myself have adapted many of the texts in this book for use in my own private rituals.

Good for the Price

"The more you study it, the more there is to Learn."

I love this book to awaken energy of life, The author could have also given an appendix on how to pronounce the names.

Absolutely terrible quality print, just lazily printed off low quality pdf in book form

the book was in good condition and quality, recommended

I really just got this. So excited to read it.

Good one

この本に、いっぱい、儀式書いて有った、安くて良い物です！是非買って下さい！

The Greek Magical Papyri in Translation is one of the most fascinating texts I’ve ever read. It doesn’t present magic as abstract theory or symbolism—it’s practical, direct, and often shockingly specific. The rituals, invocations, and formulas feel immediate, like instructions meant to be used, not just studied. What stands out most is the rawness of it. There’s no attempt to soften or modernize the material. You get the full complexity of the ancient worldview—Greek, Egyptian, and other influences blending together in ways that feel fluid and alive. The names of deities, the voces magicae, the ritual actions—it all carries a weight that’s hard to describe until you experience it. Some parts are strange, some are intense, and some are genuinely unsettling, but that’s exactly what makes it valuable. It doesn’t fit neatly into modern categories of religion or spirituality. It shows you something older, more experimental, and far less concerned with consistency or comfort. The translation itself is solid and readable, which is crucial given how dense and varied the material is. The structure allows you to move between spells and sections without getting completely lost, even when the content becomes complex. This is not a casual read. It’s something you return to, study, and sit with over time. But if you’re interested in ancient magic, ritual practice, or the deeper layers of religious history, this is absolutely essential. Overall, an incredible and deeply impactful text—challenging, strange, and unforgettable.