Baird T. Spalding played a ground-breaking role when he introduced the Western world to the wonders of a Far East expedition in 1894. The knowledge of "Masters" assisting and guiding humanity in the classic book LIFE AND TEACHING OF THE MASTERS OF THE FAR EAST became legend in metaphysical circles during the first half of the 20th century and continues today as a source of spiritual enlightenment. Spalding and the others were practical in nature and the thought of spir- itual masters performing miracles seemed impossible. Despite these suspect thoughts, something compelled them to move onward. So they did. Originally published as 3 separate volumes, DeVorss Publications is proud to release these historic books in one edition titled LIFE AND TEACHING: THE JOURNEY with a NEW INTRODUCTION by MITCH HOROWITZ, author of OCCULT AMERICA. It is within these 3 volumes that Spalding details an expedition that lasted 3 years and covered the mountainous landscape of Nepal and India near the close of the 19th century. Over the life of these books, many individuals contributed to the ongoing success of LIFE AND TEACHING, as it was commonly known. Douglas DeVorss, from the beginning, had an integral role in presenting Baird Spalding and these books. Their relationship forged a path that many other publishers and authors emulated in the years to come. This partnership that started in 1929, sustained the pains and struggles of a publish- ing business during perhaps the most economically challenging years this country has ever faced. It was in 1953 that both men faced their own personal challenges with their transitions within months of each other: Spalding's in Tempe, AZ of natural causes; and DeVorss' tragic death by gunshot in Los Angeles. The powerful message of LIFE AND TEACHING withstood that setback, and instead embarked upon a new chapter.
