Gateways Books

This podcast explores E.J. Gold’s book Practical Work on Self -- a guide for attaining self-awareness and awakening through a series of exercises.

The book discusses the concept of the “machine,” or the human biological apparatus, and explores how to transcend its limitations. Gold emphasizes the importance of recognizing the automatic functions of the machine and learning to distinguish them from the higher functions of the self. Practical Work on Self encourages readers to develop a “work-wish,” a conscious aim for self-improvement, and to overcome the negative manifestations of the machine, such as emotions, by understanding the inner workings of the organism.

Ultimately, the book seeks to help readers gain control over their own existence and achieve a state of true awakening.

Robert S. de Ropp's Self-Completion is a posthumously published guide to spiritual self-improvement.

The book blends scientific and mystical perspectives, exploring the nature of reality and the human condition. It emphasizes distinguishing between genuine spiritual work and self-deception, offering practical advice and exercises for personal transformation. De Ropp draws on his experiences with various esoteric traditions and his understanding of scientific principles to present a unique synthesis. The text also critiques societal trends and explores the potential for creating intentional communities focused on spiritual growth and ecological responsibility.

Ultimately, the book aims to help readers find meaning and purpose in their lives.

The American Book of the Dead by E.J. Gold provides instructions and guidance for navigating the "labyrinth" which represents the journey between life and death.

The text, known as the American Book of the Dead, is designed to help individuals, referred to as "voyagers," remain conscious and aware during the transition through various macrodimensional states. It aims to guide them toward liberation from the cycle of rebirth and the limitations of the human experience, emphasizing the importance of a compassionate and attentive approach toward death.

This guide is intended to be used by readers to assist voyagers during their final passage, by reading specific sections aloud to help them navigate challenging stages and avoid being trapped in lower dimensions.

E. J. Gold's Life in the Labyrinth is a complex exploration of consciousness and perception, using the metaphor of a labyrinth to represent the multidimensional nature of reality.

The book argues that humans are trapped in a limited, "primate" way of experiencing the world, preventing access to higher dimensions. Gold proposes techniques—drawing on shamanism and other esoteric traditions—to expand awareness and navigate these higher dimensions, emphasizing the crucial role of focused attention and the transcendence of ordinary limitations.

Appendices provide mathematical and physical models supporting these concepts, suggesting a framework for understanding the nature of these different levels of reality. The text is challenging, demanding a strong grasp of language and abstract concepts, and the author directly addresses readers expecting simplistic explanations.

The Human Biological Machine as a Transformation Apparatus explores the concept of the human body as a "machine" capable of transformation.

It uses an extended metaphor of a fish in a tank to represent the limitations of human perception and the potential for inner evolution. The author argues that by awakening this "machine," individuals can transcend their physical limitations and achieve a higher state of consciousness, often described as "the waking state." This process involves understanding the machine's mechanisms, overcoming its defense mechanisms against this awakening, and consciously directing one's attention to achieve transformation.

The Joy of Sacrifice is a book by E.J. Gold, featuring letters from various figures discussing the spiritual path of self-transformation. The text explores the concept of sacrifice, not as masochism, but as a series of intentional acts to overcome limitations and achieve higher states of consciousness. These sacrifices involve relinquishing comfort, desires, and habits to break free from the unconscious, ultimately leading to a deeper connection with one's essence.

The book also outlines ethical guidelines for conduct within a spiritual community and during various stages of this transformative journey. Finally, it provides biographical information on the author, highlighting his extensive background in the Human Potential movement.

E. J. Gold's Autobiography of a Sufi is a spiritual memoir detailing his life's work in establishing a school for conscious living. The book recounts his personal mystical experiences, including encounters with unseen entities and participation in transformative rituals.

It explores the interplay between the psyche and essence, advocating for the development of conscious habits to achieve enlightenment. The text incorporates narratives of Gold's travels, interactions with various individuals, and allegorical stories illustrating his teachings.

Ultimately, the autobiography aims to guide readers toward achieving a state of heightened awareness and self-realization.

E.J. Gold's Shakti! The Spiritual Science of DNA outlines a system for achieving spiritual growth through mastery of the body and mind. The book uses the analogy of flute playing to illustrate the learning process, emphasizing deep understanding over daily acquisition of new facts. It details "Moving Meditations," a series of physical exercises and accompanying meditative practices designed to overcome ingrained fears and reactions, ultimately freeing the "Being" from the limitations of the "animal" (the body's automatic survival systems).

The core concept involves the manipulation of the "Bardo" states-periods between physical lives- through the understanding and conscious control of DNA modules, enabling a transition to a state of pure Being. Finally, the text introduces DNA communication, a method of interacting directly with the individual's genetic code to achieve spiritual transformation.

Secret Talks With Mr. G. is a 1978 book compiling recollections of lectures given by Mr. G. to a select group of students. The lectures explore objective magic, a system distinct from common forms of magic or psychic phenomena.

Mr. G.'s methods involved psychometry, altered states of consciousness induced by substances and techniques, and the mastering of one's "animal" nature. The text also covers concepts like the laws governing the universe, the development of higher bodies (astral, mental, divine), and the importance of obligation and conscience in spiritual development.

Finally, it details Mr. G.'s plans for establishing exclusive clubs to further his teachings.