Commencing in 1876 and extending for ten years, Anna experienced a series of mystical illuminations. These came to her in sleep, in a manner that has been described by Plato in The Republic and Meno. Anna learnt about the inner or esoteric side of religion. In particular she learnt of the journey of the soul; its fall into matter, being subsumed by matter, and final liberation. She also gained knowledge of the Christ, the God within. She came to know that these teachings are contained in ancient mythologies and scriptures, and also in the Bible. Maitland also developed on the same wavelength, helping Anna write down her illuminations.
In 1881 Anna gave a series of lectures in London based on her revelations. These were published in 1882 as The Perfect Way, or the Finding of Christ. As a result she gained recognition in mystical circles and was invited to become president of the British Theosophical Society in 1883. Her non acceptance of the Theosophical masters led to controversy with Helena Blavatsky and Alfred Sinnett, so in May 1884 she formed the Hermetic Society with Maitland. Anna and others gave lectures on esoteric subjects in London during the Summer. One prominent lecturer was Samuel L. Macgregor Mathers, who, impressed by Anna, went on to help create the legendary occult society, the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn in 1888.
Reproduction from a rough drawing by Anna Kingsford showing the seven Stations, States, or Acts of the Human Soul comprising the Lower Triangle of the Sacred Hexagram or "Seal of Solomon," and representing the interior evolution of such Soul