We must recognize that nearly all systems of human idealism have been subjected to intentional and unintentional corruption. When noble ideals suitable only to the most dedicated persons fall into the keeping of untutored masses, misinterpretation and actual perversion is inevitable. Nearly always, esoteric doctrines are corrupted in the direction of sorcery. The individual, gaining possession of a deeper or fuller understanding of the laws operating in and through Nature, may begin to consider how he can adapt his new knowledge to his own profit at the expense of the unenlightened majority. Knowledge is power; power is opportunity; and it requires a high degree of personal integrity to administer opportunity unselfishly.
Nearly all religions, therefore, consist of three parts or levels. There is a literal doctrine administered by the clergy; a metaphysical or mystical overtone in the keeping of scholars, seers, and trancendentalists; and a materialistic undertone which is exploited by semi-theologized opportunists seeking only the aggrandizement of themselves.
– Manly P. Hall
The art is Kat Lunoe and it is the cover of Tantric Thelema by Sam Webster. I doubt Manly would approve 😉