The Adepts in the Eastern Esoteric Tradition by Manly P. Hall

Part 1: The Light of the Vedas (111 pages)
The introduction gives an invaluable explanation of the numerous references throughout religious literature of the order of enlightened human beings who are the custodians of the essential wisdom of the race-the Adepts.

In this illustrated work, the first volume in a series on the Adepts in the Eastern Esoteric Tradition, Mr. Hall writes on the teachings of the Hindu tradition. Included is a discussion of the Bhagavad-Gita and the six systems of Indian philosophy. It is also explained how the Rishis of Old Aryavata were the first Aryan Adepts, and from them came the wonderful doctrines and teachings which the East honors today as the Light of the Vedas. Also explained is the station of enlightened human beings — the Adepts. Referenced throughout the literature of numerous religious traditions, they are custodians of the essential wisdom of the world.

Part 2: The Arhats of Buddhism (112 pages)
In Buddhism the Adept tradition is but lightly veiled. For hundreds of years the followers of the Doctrine have sought to attain the internal serenity which is the peculiar attribute of the perfected human being. Immediately after the establishment of the Brotherhood, disciples of Buddhistic philosophy were taught that religion could be literally accepted or mystically experienced. Those content merely to acknowledge allegiance could expect only a degree of personal consolation. The Greater Mysteries of Buddhism were reserved for those of larger sincerity who were impelled to fulfill the disciplines and to dedicate their lives and their hearts to the realization of the law.

Part 3: The Sages of China (113 pages)
Among the historical sages of China- Lao-tse, Confucius and Buddha- these three form the great triad. In this work, Mr. Hall traces the adept tradition in China. He shows how the thoughtful Chinese does not choose between these great masters but he accepts each according to personal need and the circumstances of the occasion.

Manly Palmer Hall (1901-1990), was a Canadian-born scholar and philosopher. He began his public career in the related fields of philosophy and comparative religion at the age of nineteen and devoted his life to teaching, writing, and lecturing without interruption for over half a century.

Hall travelled extensively in Europe, Asia, and Central America, and assembled a magnificent library. He gave nearly seven thousand different lectures and talks and appeared on numerous radio and television stations throughout the United States. He wrote over thirty-five books, scores of essays, and hundreds of articles.