Through the Eyes of Mary Magdalene: From Initiation to the Passion

Estelle Isaacson presents further visions of the life of Mary Magdalene in this second book of the trilogy Through the Eyes of Mary Magdalene, subtitled From Initiation to the Passion. As before, this text is graced with many illustrations by James J. Tissot. Part One opens two months after the raising of Lazarus, as Jesus returns from his journeys in pagan lands. Magdalene hears of the time he spent with the Magus who had visited the infant Jesus bearing gifts of gold. We are then taken into a series of initiations she underwent in a secluded cave in preparation for the Passion. In Part Two we learn of plots against Jesus and witness the Triumphant Entry, the Cleansing of the Temple, the Address to the Greeks, and another anointing by Magdalene. Part Three encompasses the Passion and Resurrection. The betrayal by Judas is depicted in detail, as well as the consequences of his deed for his soul. New light is shone upon many mysteries of the Passion: from Jesus's Agony in the Garden to the dream of Pilate's wife Claudia, from the merging of Lazarus with John of Zebedee under the Cross to the great mystery of Magdalene's role in the Passion. The crowning event of this book is of course the glorious Resurrection-the most important event of all time!-which we witness through Magdalene's eyes, gaining new insight into its profound mystery. Part Four comprises seven appendices that shed light on themes raised in the text, including a vision of the Gold King as a youth, and visions of Cassius and Abenadar-the two centurions converted at the cross.