The Great Heresy: The History and Beliefs of the Cathars

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Summary: The Cathars, Alice Bailey, Ken Carey... I see a pattern
Review: Arthur Guirdham's historic research (dates, characters, events) of the condemnation of the Cathars is consistent with research by Picknett and Prince in "The Templar Revelation..." and Starbird's "The Woman with an Alabaster Jar: Mary Magdalene...". However, where it differs significantly is that Arthur Guirdham displayed the ability to embrace the esoteric and higher consciousness. What he writes of the philosphy and beliefs of the Cathars can be compared in part to the writings of Alice A. Bailey (e.g. The Seven Rays) and Key Carey (e.g. The Third Millenium). As the souls on Earth who reach this higher level of consciousness are outnumbered by those who do not, it is not surprising to see how condemnation occurs, not only in the 13th century Crusades and Inquisition, but in the 20th century by unenlightened readers (e.g. the reviewer from Berkeley).

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Summary: More understanding of Cathar beliefs
Review: I read this book hoping to learn more about Cathar beliefs. I had a smattering of knowledge and wanted more, but I was looking for real information, not comdemnation and half truths. I got what I was looking for. I got an indepth description of the facets of everday Catharism and descriptions of the more educated/trained Cathars. It was entertaining and informative reading. The second part of the book was quite eye-opening for me. It was interesting to see/read the thoughts of the returned CAthars. I found the thoughts presented there to be quite thought provoking. All in all a good read and worth the cost.

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Summary: For crackpots only
Review: The first part of the book has some basic facts about the Cathars with a fanciful interpretation, inspired by the second half which deals with revelations from discarnate entities about reincarnation on other planets and similar topics.