Author:  Tau Malachi
ISBN: 0-7387-0783-X

The following review was  contributed by: Mary Simmons:  Click Here To Read Mary's Reviews

Much attention has been focused on Mary Magdalene in recent years, but what
do we really know and understand about the woman who has been labelled a
whore?

In his latest book, 'St Mary Magdalene: The Gnostic Tradition of the Holy
Bride,' Tau Malachi reveals her as the soul mate of Jesus. She is his
closest disciple, wife and consort, co-equal and co-enlightened with him and
the co-preacher of the Gospel.
The author draws a picture of a man and woman full of grace and beauty. Mary
is elegant and Jesus is playful. Together, they are one soul united,
destined to change the people of the world and their beliefs about spiritual
truths.

The book contains a glossary at the back and notes at the end of each
chapter, so unfamiliar terms and concepts are clearly defined and easy to
locate. A suggested reading list is also included for those who want to
learn more about Gnosticism and Mary Magdalene. This practical aspect of the
book enhances the spiritual and mystical revelations about the Holy Bride
and her wisdom sayings.

These profound words, included as a gospel of 250 verses, are not to be
perused lightly. I found myself returning to them, reflecting on each
individually and marvelling at the whole. I have a feeling this book will
not sit on a shelf and be ignored. I will find moments in my life where I
will want to connect with Mary and I will turn to her words for comfort and
strength. There is a sense of truth and divine knowledge within this book
that come from a loftier soul than my own.

And yet Mary's humanity is clearly evident. Malachi strikes a balance
between the dejected woman and the enlightened spirit in his portrayal of
her. He tells us that many of the miracles attributed to Jesus in
traditional Christian denominations were also performed by Mary. She healed
the sick, helped the blind see, resurrected the dead, restored water to a
dry well and achieved many more wonders. She preached the same message and
received a mere fraction of the glory and the credit of her partner, but she
would not want to be glorified and worshipped. Her concern would be that
people have not received the whole truth and that women are still being
berated and rejected. She would want us to use her experience as an example
for how we should conduct our lives. Through our connection to her we can
come closer to our own Christhood and realize our full potential as
enlightened, spiritual beings.

Malachi also offers a method of meditation, which will help people seek a
vision of her image and commune with her. He suggests creating a shrine to
the Holy Bride in your home and connecting with her through music, song and
dance or by joining a circle of women. Men are also welcome to join the
circle, where personal stories as well as those of Mary are shared. A Feast
of the Holy Bride is also held every year on May 1.

Having read 'St. Mary Magdalene,' I feel I have come closer to knowing her
and the important role she can play in our lives if we let her in.