Into the “Fiery World” of the Roerichs: Transcendence, union and transformation of consciousness between mystical and esoteric praxis

This paper discusses hybridization of “mystical” and “esoteric” in the thought and action of 20th century mystics Nicholas and Helena Roerich – Russian then cosmopolitan writers, artists, and peace activists. This enigmatic couple influenced Theosophy, Anthroposophy and New Age movements, but also sparked much controversy. We analyze their “Agni Yoga” book series to find three points where the boundaries between mystical and esoteric categories blur. These are (1) the architecture of transcendent reality, (2) how to access or unite with it, and (3) how this leads to practical transformation of consciousness. The Roerichs’ esoteric path connected to their interfaith cosmology of a “Fiery World” and their mysticism in action by way of world travels, peace activism, and sublime art, fusing Eastern Christian, Buddhist, Islamic and Hindu elements. Rather than artificially separate mystical and esoteric categories, we conclude it is more useful to empirically analyze more such cases along these three axes.