Brothers of the Shadow

This is a term given in Occultism and especially in modern esotericism to individuals, whether men or women, who follow the "Path of the Shadows," the "Left hand Path". The term "shadow" is a technical expression and signifies more than appears on the surface: i.e., the expression is not to be understood of individuals who live in actual physical obscurity or actual physical shadows, which literalism would be simply absurd; but applies to those who follow the path of Matter, which last from time immemorial in the esoteric schools in both Orient and Occident, has frequently been called "shadow" or "shadows." The term arose, without doubt, in the philosophical conception of the word Maya, for in early Oriental esotericism Maya¹, and more especially Maha-Maya, was a term applied in one of its many philosophical meanings to that which was contrary to and, indeed, in one sense a reflection of, Light. Just as spirit may be considered to be pure energy, and matter, although essentially crystallized spirit, may be looked upon as the shadow-world or vehicular world in which the energy, or spirit or pure light works, just so is Maya, as the garment or expression of the divine energy, the vehicle or "shadow" of the divine side of Nature, in other words its negative or nether pole, as Light is the upper or positive pole.

The "Brothers of the Shadow" are therefore those who, being essentially of the nature of matter, instinctively choose and follow the path along which they are most strongly drawn, that is, the "Path of Matter" or of the "Shadows." When it is recollected that matter is but a generalizing term, and that what this term comprises actually includes an almost infinite number of degrees of increasing ethereality from the grossest physical substance, or absolute matter, up to the most ethereal or spiritualized substance, we immediately see the subtle logic of this technical term -- "Shadows," or, more fully, the "Path of the Shadows," hence the "Brothers of the Shadow."

They are the so-called "Black Magicians" of the Occident, and stand in sharp and notable contrast with the "White Magicians" or the "Sons of Light" who follow the pathway of self-renunciation, self-sacrifice, self-conquest, perfect self-control, and an expansion of the heart and mind and consciousness in love and service for all that lives.

The existence and aims of the Brothers of the Shadow are essentially selfish. It is commonly, but erroneously, supposed that the Brothers of the Shadow are men and women always of unpleasant and displeasing personal appearance, and no greater error than this could possibly be made. Multitudes of human beings are unconsciously treading the Path of the Shadows, and in comparison with these multitudes it is relatively only a few who self-consciously lead and guide with subtle intelligence this army of unsuspecting victims of Maya. The Brothers of the Shadow are often highly intellectual men and women, frequently individuals with apparent great personal charm, and to the ordinary observer, judging from their conversation and daily works, are fully as well able to "quote scripture" as are the Angels of Light!²