THE ALL

"Under, and back of, the Universe of Time, Space and Change,

is ever to be found The Substantial Reality--the Fundamental

Truth."--The Kybalion.

"Substance" means: "that which underlies all outward manifestations; the essence; the essential reality; the thing in itself," etc. "Substantial" means: "actually existing; being the essential element; being real," etc. "Reality" means: "the state of being real; true, enduring; valid; fixed; permanent; actual," etc.

Under and behind all outward appearances or manifestations, there must always be a Substantial Reality. This is the Law. Man considering the Universe, of which he is a unit, sees nothing but change in matter, forces, and mental states. He sees that nothing really IS, but that everything is BECOMING and CHANGING. Nothing stands still-everything is being born, growing, dying-the very instant a thing reaches its height, it begins to decline--the law of rhythm is in constant operation--there is no reality, enduring quality, fixity, or substantiality in anything-- nothing is permanent but Change. He sees all things evolving from other things, and resolving into other things--constant action and reaction; inflow and outflow; building up and tearing down; creation and destruction; birth, growth and death. Nothing endures but Change. And if he be a thinking man, he realizes that all of these changing things must be but outward appearances or manifestations of some Underlying Power--some Substantial Reality.

All thinkers, in all lands and in all times, have assumed the necessity for postulating the existence of this Substantial Reality. All philosophies worthy of the name have been based upon this thought. Men have given to this Substantial Reality many names-some have called it by the term of Deity (under many titles). Others have called it "The Infinite and Eternal Energy" others have tried to call it "Matter"--but all have acknowledged its existence. It is self-evident it needs no argument.

In these lessons we have followed the example of some of the world's greatest thinkers, both ancient and modern--the Hermetic. Masters--and have called this Underlying Power--this Substantial Reality--by the Hermetic name of "THE ALL," which term we consider the most comprehensive of the many terms applied by Man to THAT which transcends names and terms.

We accept and teach the view of the great Hermetic thinkers of all times, as well as of those illumined souls who have reached higher planes of being, both of whom assert that the inner nature of THE ALL is UNKNOWABLE. This must be so, for naught by THE ALL itself can comprehend its own nature and being.

The Hermetists believe and teach that THE ALL, "in itself," is and must ever be UNKNOWABLE. They regard all the theories, guesses and speculations of the theologians and metaphysicians regarding the inner nature of THE ALL, as but the childish efforts of mortal minds to grasp the secret of the Infinite. Such efforts have always failed and will always fail, from the very nature of the task. One pursuing such inquiries travels around and around in the labyrinth of thought, until he is lost to all sane reasoning, action or conduct, and is utterly unfitted for the work of life. He is like the squirrel which frantically runs around and around the circling treadmill wheel of his cage, traveling ever and yet reaching nowhere--at the end a prisoner still, and standing just where he started.

And still more presumptuous are those who attempt to ascribe to THE ALL the personality, qualities, properties, characteristics and attributes of themselves, ascribing to THE ALL the human emotions, feelings, and characteristics, even down to the pettiest qualities of mankind, such as jealousy, susceptibility to flattery and praise, desire for offerings and worship, and all the other survivals from the days of the childhood of the race. Such ideas are not worthy of grown men and women, and are rapidly being discarded.

(At this point, it may be proper for me to state that we make a distinction between Religion and Theology--between Philosophy and Metaphysics. Religion, to us, means that intuitional realization of the existence of THE ALL, and one's relationship to it; while Theology means the attempts of men to ascribe personality, qualities, and characteristics to it; their theories regarding its affairs, will, desires, plans, and designs, and their assumption of the office of '' middle-men'' between THE ALL and the people. Philosophy, to us, means the inquiry after knowledge of things knowable and thinkable; while Metaphysics means the attempt to carry the inquiry over and beyond the boundaries and into regions unknowable and unthinkable, and with the same tendency as that of Theology. And consequently, both Religion and Philosophy mean to us things having roots in Reality, while Theology and Metaphysics seem like broken reeds, rooted in the quicksands of ignorance, and affording naught but the most insecure support for the mind or soul of Man. we do not insist upon our students accepting these definitions--we mention them merely to show our position. At any rate, you shall hear very little about Theology and Metaphysics in these lessons.)

But while the essential nature of THE ALL is Unknowable, there are certain truths connected with its existence which the human mind finds itself compelled to accept. And an examination of these reports form a proper subject of inquiry, particularly as they agree with the reports of the Illumined on higher planes. And to this inquiry we now invite you.

"THAT which is the Fundamental Truth--the Substantial

Reality--is beyond true naming, but the Wise Men call

it THE ALL."--The Kybalion.

"In its Essence, THE ALL is UNKNOWABLE."--The Kybalion.

"But, the report of Reason must be hospitably received,

and treated with respect."--The Kybalion.

The human reason, whose reports we must accept so long as we think at all, informs us as follows regarding THE ALL, and that without attempting to remove the veil of the Unknowable:

(1) THE ALL must be ALL that REALLY IS. There can be
nothing existing outside of THE ALL, else THE ALL would
not be THE ALL.

(2) THE ALL must be INFINITE, for there is nothing else
to define, confine, bound, limit; or restrict THE ALL.
It must be Infinite in Time, or ETERNAL,--it must have
always continuously existed, for there is nothing else to
have ever created it, and something can never evolve from
nothing, and if it had ever "not been," even for a moment,
it would not "be" now,--it must continuously exist forever,
for there is nothing to destroy it, and it can never
"not-be," even for a moment, because something can never
become nothing. It must be Infinite in Space--it must be
Everywhere, for there is no place outside of THE ALL--it
cannot be otherwise than continuous in Space, without break,
cessation, separation, or interruption, for there is nothing
to break, separate, or interrupt its continuity, and nothing
with which to "fill in the gaps." It must be Infinite in
Power, or Absolute, for there is nothing to limit, restrict,
restrain, confine, disturb or condition it--it is subject to
no other Power, for there is no other Power.

(3) THE ALL must be IMMUTABLE, or not subject to change in
its real nature, for there is nothing to work changes upon it
nothing into which it could change, nor from which it could
have changed. It cannot be added to nor subtracted from;
increased nor diminished; nor become greater or lesser in any
respect whatsoever. It must have always been, and must always
remain, just what it is now--THE ALL--there has never been,
is not now, and never will be, anything else into which it
can change.

THE ALL being Infinite, Absolute, Eternal and Unchangeable it must follow that anything finite, changeable, fleeting, and conditioned cannot be THE ALL. And as there is Nothing outside of THE ALL, in Reality, then any and all such finite things must be as Nothing in Reality. Now do not become befogged, nor frightened--we are not trying to lead you into the Christian Science field under cover of Hermetic Philosophy. There is a Reconciliation of this apparently contradictory state of affairs. Be patient, we will reach it in time.

We see around us that which is called "Matter," which forms the physical foundation for all forms. Is THE ALL merely Matter? Not at all! Matter cannot manifest Life or Mind, and as Life and Mind are manifested in the Universe, THE ALL cannot be Matter, for nothing rises higher than its own source--nothing is ever manifested in an effect that is not in the cause--nothing is evolved as a consequent that is not involved as an antecedent. And then Modern Science informs us that there is really no such thing as Matter--that what we call Matter is merely "interrupted energy or force," that is, energy or force at a low rate of vibration. As a recent writer has said "Matter has melted into Mystery." Even Material Science has abandoned the theory of Matter, and now rests on the basis of "Energy."

Then is THE ALL mere Energy or Force? Not Energy or Force as the materialists use the terms, for their energy and force are blind, mechanical things, devoid of Life or Mind. Life and Mind can never evolve from blind Energy or Force, for the reason given a moment ago: "Nothing can rise higher than its source--nothing is evolved unless it is involved--nothing manifests in the effect, unless it is in the cause. " And so THE ALL cannot be mere Energy or Force, for, if it were, then there would be no such things as Life and Mind in existence, and we know better than that, for we are Alive and using Mind to consider this very question, and so are those who claim that Energy or Force is Everything.

What is there then higher than Matter or Energy that we know to be existent in the Universe? LIFE AND MIND! Life and Mind in all their varying degrees of unfoldment! "Then," you ask, "do you mean to tell us that THE ALL is LIFE and MIND?" Yes! and No! is our answer. If you mean Life and Mind as we poor petty mortals know them, we say No! THE ALL is not that! "But what kind of Life and Mind do you mean?" you ask.

The answer is "LIVING MIND," as far above that which mortals know by those words, as Life and Mind are higher than mechanical forces, or matter--INFINITE LIVING MIND as compared to finite "Life and Mind." We mean that which the illumined souls mean when they reverently pronounce the word: "SPIRIT!"

"THE ALL" is Infinite Living Mind--the Illumined call it SPIRIT!

MENTAL TRANSMUTATION

"Mind (as well as metals and elements) may be transmuted,

from state to state; degree to degree; condition to condition;

pole to pole; vibration to vibration. True Hermetic Transmutation

is a Mental Art."--The Kybalion.

As we have stated, the Hermetists were the original alchemists, astrologers, and psychologists, Hermes having been the founder of these schools of thought. From astrology has grown modern astronomy; from alchemy has grown modern chemistry; from the mystic psychology has grown the modern psychology of the schools. But it must not be supposed that the ancients were ignorant of that which the modern schools suppose to be their exclusive and special property. The records engraved on the stones of Ancient Egypt show conclusively that the ancients had a full comprehensive knowledge of astronomy, the very building of the Pyramids showing the connection between their design and the study of astronomical science. Nor were they ignorant of Chemistry, for the fragments of the ancient writings show that they were acquainted with the chemical properties of things; in fact, the ancient theories regarding physics are being slowly verified by the latest discoveries of modern science, notably those relating to the constitution of matter. Nor must it be supposed that they were ignorant of the so-called modern discoveries in psychology--on the contrary, the Egyptians were especially skilled in the science of Psychology, particularly in the branches that the modern schools ignore, but which, nevertheless, are being uncovered under the name of "psychic science" which is perplexing the psychologists of to-day, and making them reluctantly admit that "there may be something in it after all."

The truth is, that beneath the material chemistry, astronomy and psychology (that is, the psychology in its phase of "brain-action") the ancients possessed a knowledge of transcendental astronomy, called astrology; of transcendental chemistry, called alchemy; of transcendental psychology, called mystic psychology. They possessed the Inner Knowledge as well as the Outer Knowledge, the latter alone being possessed by modern scientists. Among the many secret branches of knowledge possessed by the Hermetists, was that known as Mental Transmutation, which forms the subject matter of this lesson.

"Transmutation" is a term usually employed to designate the ancient art of the transmutation of metals--particularly of the base metals into gold. The word "Transmute" means "to change from one nature, form, or substance, into another; to transform" (Webster). And accordingly, "Mental Transmutation" means the art of changing and transforming mental states, forms, and conditions, into others. So you may see that Mental Transmutation is the "Art of Mental Chemistry," if you like the term--a form of practical Mystic Psychology.

But this means far more than appears on the surface. Transmutation, Alchemy, or Chemistry on the Mental Plane is important enough in its effects, to be sure, and if the art stopped there it would still be one of the most important branches of study known to man. But this is only the beginning. Let us see why!

The first of the Seven Hermetic Principles is the Principle of Mentalism, the axiom of which is "THE ALL is Mind; the Universe is Mental," which means that the Underlying Reality of the Universe is Mind; and the Universe itself is Mental--that is, "existing in the Mind of THE ALL." We shall consider this Principle in succeeding lessons, but let us see the effect of the principle if it be assumed to be true.

If the Universe is Mental in its nature, then Mental Transmutation must be the art of CHANGING THE CONDITIONS OF THE UNIVERSE, along the lines of Matter, Force and mind. So you see, therefore, that Mental Transmutation is really the "Magic" of which the ancient; writers had so much to say in their mystical works, and about which they gave so few practical instructions. If All be Mental, then the art which enables one to transmute mental conditions must render the Master the controller of material conditions as well as those ordinarily called "mental."

As a matter of fact, none but advanced Mental Alchemists have been able to attain the degree of power necessary to control the grosser physical conditions, such as the control of the elements of Nature; the production or cessation of tempests; the production and cessation of earthquakes and other great physical phenomena. But that such men have existed, and do exist today, is a matter of earnest belief to all advanced occultists of all schools. That the Masters exist, and have these powers, the best teachers assure their students, having had experiences which justify them in such belief and statements. These Masters do not make public exhibitions of their powers, but seek seclusion from the crowds of men, in order to better work their may along the Path of Attainment. We mention their existence, at this point, merely to call your attention to the fact that their power is entirely Mental, and operates along the lines of the higher Mental Transmutation, under the Hermetic Principle of Mentalism.

"The Universe is Mental"--The Kybalion.

But students and Hermetists of lesser degree than Masters--the Initiates and Teachers--are able to freely work along the Mental Plane, in Mental Transmutation. In fact all that we call "psychic phenomena,"; "mental influence"; "mental science"; "new-thought phenomena," etc., operates along the same general lines, for there is but one principle involved, no matter by what name the phenomena be called.

The student and practitioner of Mental Transmutation works among the Mental Plane, transmuting mental conditions, states, etc., into others, according to various formulas, more or less efficacious. The various "treatments," "affirmations," "denials" etc., of the schools of mental science are but formulas, often quite imperfect and unscientific, of The Hermetic Art. The majority of modern practitioners are quite ignorant compared to the ancient masters, for they lack the fundamental knowledge upon which the work is based.

Not only may the mental states, etc., of one's self be changed or transmuted by Hermetic Methods; but also the states of others may be, and are, constantly transmuted in the same way, usually unconsciously, but often consciously by some understanding the laws and principles, in cases where the people affected are not informed of the principles of self-protection. And more than this, as many students and practitioners of modern mental science know, every material condition depending upon the minds of other people may be changed or transmuted in accordance with the earnest desire, will, and "treatments" of person desiring changed conditions of life. The public are so generally informed regarding these things at present, that we do not deem it necessary to mention the same at length, our purpose at this point being merely to show the Hermetic Principle and Art underlying all of these various forms of practice, good and evil, for the force can be used in opposite directions according to the Hermetic Principles of Polarity.

In this little book we shall state the basic principles of Mental Transmutation, that all who read may grasp the Underlying Principles, and thus possess the Master-Key that will unlock the many doors of the Principle of Polarity.

We shall now proceed to a consideration of the first of the Hermetic Seven Principles--the Principle of Mentalism, in which is explained the truth that "THE ALL is Mind; the Universe is Mental," in the words of The Kybalion. We ask the close attention, and careful study of this great Principle, on the part of our students, for it is really the Basic Principle of the whole Hermetic Philosophy, and of the Hermetic Art of Mental Transmutation.

THE SEVEN HERMETIC PRINCIPLES

"The Principles of Truth are Seven; he who knows these,

understandingly, possesses the Magic Key before whose

touch all the Doors of the Temple fly open."--The Kybalion.

The Seven Hermetic Principles, upon which the entire Hermetic Philosophy is based, are as follows:

1. The Principle of Mentalism.
2. The Principle of Correspondence.
3. The Principle of Vibration.
4. The Principle of Polarity.
5. The Principle of Rhythm.
6. The Principle of Cause and Effect.
7. The Principle of Gender.

These Seven Principles will be discussed and explained as we proceed with these lessons. A short explanation of each, however, may as well be given at this point.

1. The Principle of Mentalism

"THE ALL IS MIND; The Universe is Mental."--The Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the truth that "All is Mind." It explains that THE ALL (which is the Substantial Reality underlying all the outward manifestations and appearances which we know under the terms of "The Material Universe"; the "Phenomena of Life"; "Matter"; "Energy"; and, in short, all that is apparent to our material senses) is SPIRIT which in itself is UNKNOWABLE and UNDEFINABLE, but which may be considered and thought of as AN UNIVERSAL, INFINITE, LIVING MIND. It also explains that all the phenomenal world or universe is simply a Mental Creation of THE ALL, subject to the Laws of Created Things, and that the universe, as a whole, and in its parts or units, has its existence in the Mind of THE ALL, in which Mind we "live and move and have our being." This Principle, by establishing the Mental Nature of the Universe, easily explains all of the varied mental and psychic phenomena that occupy such a large portion of the public attention, and which, without such explanation, are non-understandable and defy scientific treatment. An understanding of this great Hermetic Principle of Mentalism enables the individual to readily grasp the laws of the Mental Universe, and to apply the same to his well-being and advancement. The Hermetic Student is enabled to apply intelligently the great Mental Laws, instead of using them in a haphazard manner. With the Master-Key in his possession, the student may unlock the many doors of the mental and psychic temple of knowledge, and enter the same freely and intelligently. This Principle explains the true nature of "Energy," "Power," and "Matter," and why and how all these are subordinate to the Mastery of Mind. One of the old Hermetic Masters wrote, long ages ago: "He who grasps the truth of the Mental Nature of the Universe is well advanced on The Path to Mastery." And these words are as true today as at the time they were first written. Without this Master-Key, Mastery is impossible, and the student knocks in vain at the many doors of The Temple.

2. The Principle of Correspondence

"As above, so below; as below, so above."--The Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the truth that there is always a Correspondence between the laws and phenomena of the various planes of Being and Life. The old Hermetic axiom ran in these words: "As above, so below; as below, so above." And the grasping of this Principle gives one the means of solving many a dark paradox, and hidden secret of Nature. There are planes beyond our knowing, but when we apply the Principle of Correspondence to them we are able to understand much that would otherwise be unknowable to us. This Principle is of universal application and manifestation, on the various planes of the material, mental, and spiritual universe--it is an Universal Law. The ancient Hermetists considered this Principle as one of the most important mental instruments by which man was able to pry aside the obstacles which hid from view the Unknown. Its use even tore aside the Veil of Isis to the extent that a glimpse of the face of the goddess might be caught. Just as a knowledge of the Principles of Geometry enables man to measure distant suns and their movements, while seated in his observatory, so a knowledge of the Principle of Correspondence enables Man to reason intelligently from the Known to the Unknown. Studying the monad, he understands the archangel.

3. The Principle of Vibration

"Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates."--The

Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the truth that "everything is in motion"; "everything vibrates"; "nothing is at rest"; facts which Modern Science endorses, and which each new scientific discovery tends to verify. And yet this Hermetic Principle was enunciated thousands of years ago, by the Masters of Ancient Egypt. This Principle explains that the differences between different manifestations of Matter, Energy, Mind, and even Spirit, result largely from varying rates of Vibration. From THE ALL, which is Pure Spirit, down to the grossest form of Matter, all is in vibration--the higher the vibration, the higher the position in the scale. The vibration of Spirit is at such an infinite rate of intensity and rapidity that it is practically at rest--just as a rapidly moving wheel seems to be motionless. And at the other end of the scale, there are gross forms of matter whose vibrations are so low as to seem at rest. Between these poles, there are millions upon millions of varying degrees of vibration. From corpuscle and electron, atom and molecule, to worlds and universes, everything is in vibratory motion. This is also true on the planes of energy and force (which are but varying degrees of vibration); and also on the mental planes (whose states depend upon vibrations); and even on to the spiritual planes. An understanding of this Principle, with the appropriate formulas, enables Hermetic students to control their own mental vibrations as well as those of others. The Masters also apply this Principle to the conquering of Natural phenomena, in various ways. "He who understands the Principle of Vibration, has grasped the scepter of power," says one of the old writers.

4. The Principle of Polarity

"Everything is Dual; everything has poles; everything has its

pair of opposites; like and unlike are the same; opposites are

identical in nature, but different in degree; extremes meet;

all truths are but half-truths; all paradoxes may be

reconciled."--The Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the truth that "everything is dual"; "everything has two poles"; "everything has its pair of opposites," all of which were old Hermetic axioms. It explains the old paradoxes, that have perplexed so many, which have been stated as follows: "Thesis and antithesis are identical in nature, but different in degree"; "opposites are the same, differing only in degree"; "the pairs of opposites may be reconciled"; "extremes meet"; "everything is and isn't, at the same time"; "all truths are but half-truths"; "every truth is half-false"; "there are two sides to everything," etc., etc., etc. It explains that in everything there are two poles, or opposite aspects, and that "opposites" are really only the two extremes of the same thing, with many varying degrees between them. To illustrate: Heat and Cold, although "opposites," are really the same thing, the differences consisting merely of degrees of the same thing. Look at your thermometer and see if you can discover where "heat" terminates and "cold" begins! There is no such thing as "absolute heat" or "absolute cold"--the two terms "heat" and "cold" simply indicate varying degrees of the same thing, and that "same thing" which manifests as "heat" and "cold" is merely a form, variety, and rate of Vibration. So "heat" and "cold" are simply the "two poles" of that which we call "Heat"--and the phenomena attendant thereupon are manifestations of the Principle of Polarity. The same Principle manifests in the case of "Light and Darkness," which are the same thing, the difference consisting of varying degrees between the two poles of the phenomena. Where does "darkness" leave off, and "light" begin? What is the difference between "Large and Small"? Between "Hard and Soft"? Between "Black and White"? Between "Sharp and Dull"? Between "Noise and Quiet"? Between "High and Low"? Between "Positive and Negative"? The Principle of Polarity explains these paradoxes, and no other Principle can supersede it. The same Principle operates on the Mental Plane. Let us take a radical and extreme example--that of "Love and Hate," two mental states apparently totally different. And yet there are degrees of Hate and degrees of Love, and a middle point in which we use the terms "Like or Dislike," which shade into each other so gradually that sometimes we are at a loss to know whether we "like" or "dislike" or "neither." And all are simply degrees of the same thing, as you will see if you will but think a moment. And, more than this (and considered of more importance by the Hermetists), it is possible to change the vibrations of Hate to the vibrations of Love, in one's own mind, and in the minds of others. Many of you, who read these lines, have had personal experiences of the involuntary rapid transition from Love to Hate, and the reverse, in your own case and that of others. And you will therefore realize the possibility of this being accomplished by the use of the Will, by means of the Hermetic formulas. "Good and Evil" are but the poles of the same thing, and the Hermetist understands the art of transmuting Evil into Good, by means of an application of the Principle of Polarity. In short, the "Art of Polarization" becomes a phase of "Mental Alchemy" known and practiced by the ancient and modern Hermetic Masters. An understanding of the Principle will enable one to change his own Polarity, as well as that of others, if he will devote the time and study necessary to master the art.

5. The Principle of Rhythm

"Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides;

all things rise and fall; the pendulum-swing manifests in

everything; the measure of the swing to the right is the

measure of the swing to the left; rhythm compensates."--The

Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the truth that in everything there is manifested a measured motion, to and fro; a flow and inflow; a swing backward and forward; a pendulum-like movement; a tide-like ebb and flow; a high-tide and low-tide; between the two poles which exist in accordance with the Principle of Polarity described a moment ago. There is always an action and a reaction; an advance and a retreat; a rising and a sinking. This is in the affairs of the Universe, suns, worlds, men, animals, mind, energy, and matter. This law is manifest in the creation and destruction of worlds; in the rise and fall of nations; in the life of all things; and finally in the mental states of Man (and it is with this latter that the Hermetists find the understanding of the Principle most important). The Hermetists have grasped this Principle, finding its universal application, and have also discovered certain means to overcome its effects in themselves by the use of the appropriate formulas and methods. They apply the Mental Law of Neutralization. They cannot annul the Principle, or cause it to cease its operation, but they have learned how to escape its effects upon themselves to a certain degree depending upon the Mastery of the Principle. They have learned how to USE it, instead of being USED BY it. In this and similar methods, consist the Art of the Hermetists. The Master of Hermetics polarizes himself at the point at which he desires to rest, and then neutralizes the Rhythmic swing of the pendulum which would tend to carry him to the other pole. All individuals who have attained any degree of Self-Mastery do this to a certain degree, more or less unconsciously, but the Master does this consciously, and by the use of his Will, and attains a degree of Poise and Mental Firmness almost impossible of belief on the part of the masses who are swung backward and forward like a pendulum. This Principle and that of Polarity have been closely studied by the Hermetists, and the methods of counteracting, neutralizing, and USING them form an important part of the Hermetic Mental Alchemy.

6. The Principle of Cause and Effect

"Every Cause has its Effect; every Effect has its Cause;

everything happens according to Law; Chance is but a name

for Law not recognized; there are many planes of causation,

but nothing escapes the Law."--The Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the fact that there is a Cause for every Effect; an Effect from every Cause. It explains that: "Everything Happens according to Law"; that nothing ever "merely happens"; that there is no such thing as Chance; that while there are various planes of Cause and Effect, the higher dominating the lower planes, still nothing ever entirely escapes the Law. The Hermetists understand the art and methods of rising above the ordinary plane of Cause and Effect, to a certain degree, and by mentally rising to a higher plane they become Causers instead of Effects. The masses of people are carried along, obedient to environment; the wills and desires of others stronger than themselves; heredity; suggestion; and other outward causes moving them about like pawns on the Chessboard of Life. But the Masters, rising to the plane above, dominate their moods, characters, qualities, and powers, as well as the environment surrounding them, and become Movers instead of pawns. They help to PLAY THE GAME OF LIFE, instead of being played and moved about by other wills and environment. They USE the Principle instead of being its tools. The Masters obey the Causation of the higher planes, but they help to RULE on their own plane. In this statement there is condensed a wealth of Hermetic knowledge--let him read who can.

7. The Principle of Gender

"Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine

and Feminine Principles; Gender manifests on all

planes."--The Kybalion.

This Principle embodies the truth that there is GENDER manifested in everything--the Masculine and Feminine Principles ever at work. This is true not only of the Physical Plane, but of the Mental and even the Spiritual Planes. On the Physical Plane, the Principle manifests as SEX, on the higher planes it takes higher forms, but the Principle is ever the same. No creation, physical, mental or spiritual, is possible without this Principle. An understanding of its laws will throw light on many a subject that has perplexed the minds of men. The Principle of Gender works ever in the direction of generation, regeneration, and creation. Everything, and every person, contains the two Elements or Principles, or this great Principle, within it, him or her. Every Male thing has the Female Element also; every Female contains also the Male Principle. If you would understand the philosophy of Mental and Spiritual Creation, Generation, and Re-generation, you must understand and study this Hermetic Principle. It contains the solution of many mysteries of Life. We caution you that this Principle has no reference to the many base, pernicious and degrading lustful theories, teachings and practices, which are taught under fanciful titles, and which are a prostitution of the great natural principle of Gender. Such base revivals of the ancient infamous forms of Phallicism tend to ruin mind, body and soul, and the Hermetic Philosophy has ever sounded the warning note against these degraded teachings which tend toward lust, licentiousness, and perversion of Nature's principles. If you seek such teachings, you must go elsewhere for them--Hermeticism contains nothing for you along these lines. To the pure, all things are pure; to the base, all things are base.

INSTRUCTIONS ON THE MIDDLE PILLAR EXERCISE

Issued by the

Thelemic Order

of the Golden Dawn

Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.

The Golden Dawn Middle Pillar Exercise is, to all intents and purposes, a Magical Ritual of Self-Initiation. That is, it is a magical method of commencing the subtle and inevitable process of uniting human consciousness with the divine consciousness, which is symbolized universally by the Light. In other words, it is a dynamic method of the Great Work, and it is worthy of vast attention from those who are truly serious about engaging themselves in the Great Work.

The Middle Pillar Exercise is a proper magical method of commencing the process of making contact with the Light and bringing it into conscious manifestation. But this Light of which we speak has naught to do with the mushy metaphysical mumbo-jumbo prattled and preached by the credulous critters of the so-called Metaphysical or New Age movements. Rather is it a metaphorical symbol for the Holy Guardian Angel or one's Central Self so often symbolized by the Lord of the Solar System, the Sun. It is LVX, the Light of the Cross. It is Khabs, the Light of a Star. The Middle Pillar Exercise is an inner recognition of that Light in the five Spheres of the Middle Pillar of Consciousness. It is a technique for concentrating and crystallizing into being the Light and bringing that Light down into conscious manifestation.

The Middle Pillar Exercise serves as an excellent prelude to any type of spiritual working, for it aligns the human personality with the Divine Self of Kether. All true spiritual work is done under the guidance of Kether. By performing the Middle Pillar Exercise you literally manifest the Light of your own Divine Self, concentrating it into being from your own limitless nature, as a sign thereof, and you gradually bring that Light into the sphere of your own human consciousness which is then transformed into a higher form of potential consciousness of your own True Nature.

The Neophyte should perform the Middle Pillar Exercise slowly and with great care and attention. It is a most effective magical method for awakening the higher currents within, and must be used with great patience and earnest aspiration. This cathartic exercise purifies and nourishes the Aura or Sphere of Sensation with the Divine Light from above. Thus it is a highly potent and serious method of the Great Work. Let the Neophyte begin visualizing each Sphere five minutes separately, vibrating each Name as many times as he/she feels inclined, however five times per Sphere seems an appropriate limit. The Ritual should take no more than 30 minutes to perform. To become identified with the Divine Energy of each of the five Spheres, periodically visualize yourself as a little person existing and moving inside each Sphere. Try to maintain this visualization within each Sphere for a period of five minutes. It is also a good practice in this respect to periodically visualize in the Spheres the letters that make up the God Names of each Sphere. In this way you enhance the meaning and power of each Sphere in your archetypal model of the Middle Pillar.

The White Sphere above the Head is the place of Kether on the Tree of Life. The Indigo Sphere at the Throat is the place of Daath on the Tree of Life. The Yellow Sphere at the Heart is the place of Tiphareth on the Tree of Life. The Violet Sphere at the Genital is the place of Yesod on the Tree of Life. The Green Sphere at the feet is the place of Malkuth on the Tree of Life. These five Spheres naturally correspond with the four Aristotelian Elements (Fire, Water, Air and Earth) and the Quintessence or Spirit (the so-called fifth Element). Thus they also correspond with the five Tattvas or Elements of Eastern Philosophy. Kether is Spirit/Akasha, Daath is Air/Vayu, Tiphareth is Fire/Tejas, Yesod is Water/Apas, and Malkuth is Earth/Prithivi. The Neophyte may find it a valuable practice to visualize in the five Spheres of the Middle Pillar their corresponding Elemental Tattvic symbols. These Tattvic symbols are an Indigo Ovoid for Spirit/Akasha, a Blue Circle for Air/Vayu, an upright Red Triangle for Fire/Tejas, a Silver Crescent for Water/Apas, and a Yellow Square for Earth/Prithivi.

The Middle Pillar Exercise may be performed while standing, sitting, or even lying down. There is no strict rule concerning this matter; it must be left to the experience of the Magician to determine what position shall suit him/her best in this practice. However, it is the more common method among members of the Order to stand erect while performing the Middle Pillar Exercise. In this way we maintain an active conscious role in the practice, less inclined to enter into a passive state of trance or sleep. The Middle Pillar Exercise is capable of inducing a certain species of trance if it is performed for a long period of time in a relaxed or passive state. There is nothing wrong in this, but the object of the Middle Pillar Exercise is to actively manifest the Light in the consciousness of the Magician, to dynamically expand his/her awareness of that Light. It is therefore suitable to stand.

Concerning the formulation of the Talismatic Atom. The Atom is one of the most significant of all symbols for the modern Magician to understand and apply. The symbol of the Atom, like the Atom itself, is a source of vast potential energy and its value in the world of modern Magick is simply inestimable. The symbol of the Atom does not only represent one of the minute indivisible particles of which, according to ancient materialism, the Universe is composed, but is a symbol of the Whole Universe itself. Its formulation in the Aura of the Magician helps to circulate the Light invoked through the Middle Pillar and awaken his/her consciousness to a more universal mode of awareness or a higher circuit of cosmic potential. This practice of the formulation of the Talismatic Atom also helps to fortify the Magician's power to concentrate. In this simple practice is contained much wisdom for those who have eyes to see.

Concerning the formulation of the Qabalistic or Thelemic Cross. This helps to equilibrate the Light in the Aura or Sphere of Sensation. The Cross in itself is an invocation of the Divine Light of Kether and an equilibration of that Light in the four elemental quarters. By ending the Middle Pillar Exercise with the Cross you are sealing the ritual with the Light of Kether. You also formulate in your Aura the Cross of Light and seal your Aura with that Light. It is a suitable idea at this final point of the exercise to increase the size of the Cross, so that its vertical and horizontal bars extend into infinity. It is this which is the fulfillment of the Golden Dawn proclamation, "Khabs Am Pekht. Konx Om Pax. Light in Extension." After the formulation of the Talismatic Image of the Cross in the Aura, the Magician may find it a suitable practice to compose him/her self in the Sign of Silence, assuming the God-form of Harpocrates in the Egg of Blue.

The Middle Pillar is the Great Key to the Royal Path of Initiation. Thus the Middle Pillar Exercise can be used as an actual method for initiating oneself into the Mysteries of the Light. Initiation is a conscious realization of the Light. It is the beginning of the process of the gradual development of self-awareness and of self-actualization. The initiate is one who has come to a conscious realization of the Light of his/her own True Self, whose consciousness is one with his Inmost Self, with the Star of his/her own celestial nature.

The Light is a metaphor for pure Consciousness, or the unstained awareness of one's True Nature, which is the Eternal Matrix of one's being. It is Awareness of one's Universal Self, that great part of us all which is one with every other thing in the Infinite Universe, that majestic part of our own beings which we so often term the Holy Guardian Angel. It is what the foolish folk call God, and we call the Ideal Identity of our inmost nature. It is the Quinta Essentia or QUINTESSENCE of our being. It is the Light of the Star that we are in truth, and the Burning Radiance of our Eternal Self coursing through the great Heavens of Nuit. It is the Great Mystery of all Prophets and Sages, and the Goal of all Philosophers. It is That to which all men and women attain at their appointed time of death.

Love is the law, love under will.

SELF-INITIATION CEREMONY OF THE ENTERER OF THE THRESHOLD

Issued by the

Thelemic Order

of the Golden Dawn

FOR THE NEOPHYTE

GRADE OF THE

THELEMIC ORDER

OF THE GOLDEN DAWN

REQUIRED

For the Candidate: Black Tau Robe. Red Shoes or Socks. (Note: Black pertains to the Outer Order, referring to the darkness of Matter, which conceals the Light. Red pertains to Mars and to the God Horus. Mars is the Planet of the Warrior and Horus is the Warrior God. Thus wearing Red shoes or socks indicates that you are on the Path of the Warrior-Magician.)

For the Temple: Altar. Temple Pillars of the Sun and Moon (White Pillar with a Gold Sun and Black Pillar with a Silver Moon). Thelemic Golden Dawn Banners of Therion and Babalon (White Banner with a Gold Unicursal Hexagram and Black Banner with a Silver Heptagram). Stele of Revealing. Cup of Lustral Water for Purification. Censer of Incense for Consecration.

For the Altar: Rose in the East. Red Lamp in the South. Cup of Wine (or Water) in the West. Paten of Bread and Salt (or Cake of Light) in the North. Copy of Liber Legis (The Book of the Law) in the Center.

(Important Note: If you do not have any of the Temple requirements listed above, you may substitute them with other similar objects. These objects, however, should be magically consecrated before you apply them in the ceremony. In other words, the objects should be dedicated to the ceremony through Prayer and with Fire [Abramelin Oil], making them fit instruments of your Will.)

THE OPENING

Perform the Lesser Banishing Ritual of the Pentagram or Liber XXV, the Ritual of the Star Ruby.

Go to the Center of the Temple, knock 3-5-3 on the Altar, and say:

Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.

Take up the Cup of Purification, hold it up toward the East, and say:

So therefore first the initiate who governeth the works of Fire must sprinkle with the Lustral Waters of the resounding Sea.

Make a Cross in the Air with the Cup, and sprinkle a few drops of Water three times toward the East. Pass to the South, West and North, repeating the purification in each quarter, then return to the East, and say:

I purify the Temple with Water.

Take up the Censer of Consecration, hold it up toward the East, and say:

And when all the phantoms have vanished, thou shalt see that Holy and Formless Fire, that Fire which darts and flashes through the hidden depths of the Universe.

Make a Cross in the Air with the Censer, and swing it thrice toward the East. Pass to the South, West and North, repeating the censing at each quarter, then return to the East, and say:

I consecrate the Temple with Fire.

Circumambulate three times, clockwise, giving the Sign of Horus when passing the East so as to project the force that radiates therefrom, and say:

The Mystick Circumambulation symbolical of the Rise of Light is accomplished!

Go to the Center of the Temple, face East, give the Sign of Horus, and say:

Unity uttermost showed!
I adore the might of Thy breath,
Supreme and Terrible God,
Who makest the gods and death
To tremble before Thee: --
I, I adore Thee!

Appear on the Throne of Ra!
Open the ways of the Khu!
Lighten the ways of the Ka!
The ways of the Khabs run through
To stir me or still me!
Aum! let it fill me!

Return in the Sign of Silence, and then say:

In the Name of the Supreme and Terrible Lord of the Universe, Crowned and Conquering, I declare that the Sun of Light has arisen and the Shadows of Darkness flee away!

Knock and say: KHABS.
Knock and say: AM.
Knock and say: PEKHT.

Knock and say: KONX.
Knock and say: OM.
Knock and say: PAX.

Knock and say: LIGHT.
Knock and say: IN.
Knock and say: EXTENSION.

Knock 3-5-3 on the Altar, and say:

Love is the law, love under will.

Make the Signs of the Neophyte and depart from the Temple in the Sign of Silence.

THE INITIATION

I have gladly received dispensation from Frater A.·. A.·. to initiate myself into the Grade of the Neophyte and to be initiated as a Warrior-Magician of Thelema.

I shall now lose my public name and will henceforth be known as Frater/Soror [Neophyte Motto].

I am the Inheritor of a Dying World. I shall now rise and enter the Darkness!

The Mother of Darkness hath blinded me with Her Hair!

The Father of Darkness hath hidden me under His Wings!

My limbs are still weary from the wars that were in Heaven.

Unpurified and Unconsecrated, I cannot enter the Temple.

Dip your thumb in the Lustral Water, make with it a Cross on your Brow, sprinkle yourself three times, and say:

I purify myself with Water.

Make a Cross with the Censer, and waving it toward yourself three times, say:

I consecrate myself with Fire.

Enter the Temple, go to the foot of the Altar, face East, and say:

I, [Neophyte Motto], proclaim that it is my Will to be initiated as a Neophyte of the Thelemic Order of the Golden Dawn.

The One Law of the Thelemic Order of the Golden Dawn is the Law of Thelema: "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law. Love is the law, love under will." In freedom I have entered this Temple to initiate myself as a Neophyte, and only in freedom must I obligate myself to anyone or anything. The Sun of Light came not to bind, but to free humanity. In freedom I must do my Will. I have no right but to do my Will. I will do that, and no other shall say nay.

I now place my hands on the Book of the Law to signify my Will to exercise the Law of Liberty, and I will now take the Oath of the Neophyte.

THE OATH OF
THE NEOPHYTE

I, [Neophyte Motto], being of sound mind and body, having resolved to prosecute the Great Work, do, of my own free Will, hereby and hereon, most solemnly promise and swear upon the Book of the Law:

To discover my True Will.

To understand all things.

To love all things.

To endure all things necessary for the discovery of my True Will.

To aspire to the Knowledge and Conversation of my Holy Guardian Angel.

To work without lust of result.

To banish the illusions.

To rely only upon Myself.

To dedicate my every thought, word and deed to the discovery of my True Will.

May the Order crown the work, lend me of its wisdom in the work, and enable me to understand the work!

I will now seal this solemn Oath of Obligation three times with my lips on the Book of the Law.

Kiss the Book of the Law three times and then put it back on the Altar.

I will now place myself in the Northern part of the Temple -- the place of Forgetfulness, Weakness and Necessity, and of the greatest symbolical Darkness.

Go to the Northern part of the Temple, and say:

The Voice of my Undying and Secret Soul said unto me, "Let me enter the Path of Darkness and, peradventure, there shall I find the Light. I am the only Being in an Abyss of Darkness; from an Abyss of Darkness came I forth ere my birth, from the Silence of a Primal Sleep."

And the Voice of Ages answered to my Soul, "I am He who formulates in Darkness ― the Light that shineth in Darkness, yet the Darkness comprehendeth it not."

I will now perform the Mystick Circumambulation in the Path of Knowledge that leadeth unto Light!

Circumambulate clockwise, but without Signs. Stop in the South after the second passing of the East, and say:

Unpurified and Unconsecrated, I cannot enter the Path of the West.

Dip your thumb in the Lustral Water, make with it a Cross on your Brow, sprinkle yourself three times, and say:

I purify myself with Water.

Make a Cross with the Censer, and waving it toward yourself three times, say:

I consecrate myself with Fire.

Twice purified and twice consecrated, I may approach the Gateway of the West.

Continue to Circumambulate, but halt in the West, imagine a Threatening Force emanating from the West, and say:

Darkness is the Name of the Guardian of the West, O Thou Great One of the Paths of the Shades.

Fear is failure and the forerunner of failure. Therefore I shall fear neither men not Fates, nor gods, nor anything. For Nu is my refuge, as Hadit my Light; and Ra-Hoor-Khuit is the strength, force, and vigor of my arms.

Continue to Circumambulate, but halt in the North after passing the West, and say:

Unpurified and Unconsecrated, I cannot enter the Path of the East.

Dip your thumb in the Lustral Water, make with it a Cross on your Brow, sprinkle yourself three times, and say:

I purify myself with Water.

Make a Cross with the Censer, and waving it toward yourself three times, say:

I consecrate myself with Fire.

Thrice purified and thrice consecrated, I may approach the Gateway of the East.

Continue to Circumambulate, but halt in the East, imagine an Illuminating Force emanating from the East, and say:

Light Dawning in Darkness is the Name of the Guardian of the East, O Thou Light of a Golden Day!

Unbalanced Power is the ebbing away of Life.
Unbalanced Mercy is weakness and the fading out of the Will.
Unbalanced Severity is cruelty and the barrenness of Mind.

Go to the West of the Altar, face East, and say the Invocation to Horus.

THE INVOCATION
TO HORUS

O Thou Supreme and Terrible Lord of the Universe, Who art the Crowned One: the Hawk-Headed Lord of the Sun: Conquering Child of the New Aeon: Lord of the Force and the Fire of the World: Thee, Thee, I invoke!

Hear me, Thou Supreme and Terrible One, and grant that my Will be done: that I be initiated and instructed in thy Wisdom and thy Power: that I be granted the strength and courage to uphold and exercise thy Way of Liberty, as a God who is free to do my True Will among the legions of the living; and grant unto me the comprehension of all that will bring me nearer unto Thee!

Teach me, Lord Horus, more of thy Mystery and thy Mastery; let each day and night bring me nearer unto Thee! Let me aid Thee in thy Great Work upon the earth, so that I may one day become truly united unto Thee in all Thy Infinite Glory of Light, Life, Love and Liberty.

I invoke Thee, Lord Horus, to guard and guide me through the many Paths of Life, that I may at length become one with thy Supreme and Terrible Essence! O Lord of the Universe, grant Thou that upon me may shine forth the Light of my True Soul; and let me be guided by the help of my Holy Guardian Angel unto the attainment of Thy Infinite Light.

And from hereon, teach me this one thing: how I may learn from Thee the Mysteries of thy Sacred Magick of Thelema: that I may obtain the Knowledge and Power of my True Will, and thus attain to the Knowledge and Conversation of my Holy Guardian Angel; and how best I may use that Knowledge and Power to assist my fellow men and women to accomplish the Great Work on earth.

And finally, I implore Thee, to let there be a link of unity between us; that I may ever seek, and seeking, obtain Freedom and Knowledge in Thee who art my very Selfhood, that I may duly partake of thy Supreme Spirit of Power to attain the Philosopher's Stone, the Summum Bonum, True Wisdom, and Perfect Happiness.

AUMGN. AUMGN. AUMGN.

Make the Signs of the Neophyte, and say:

I am the inheritor of a Dying World, but I am now called to the Living Beauty. I am a wanderer in the Wild Darkness, but I am now called to the Living Light. Long have I dwelt in Darkness -- but I will now quit the night and seek the Day! For I am now a Neophyte of the Thelemic Order of the Golden Dawn! May the Light of the Dawning Sun extend upon me!

KHABS AM PEKHT.
KONX OM PAX.
LIGHT IN EXTENSION.

THE SECRETS
OF THE GRADE

Go to the East of the Altar. Face East.

I will now proclaim the Signs and Word of the Neophyte.

The Signs are two. The First or Saluting Sign is given thus: <Advance your left foot about 12 inches, throw forward your body, and stretch both arms out.> This is the Sign of Ra-Hoor-Khuit, the Conquering Child of Force and Fire, the Supreme and Terrible Lord of our Order of Thelema. It has also these names: "The Sign of the Enterer of the Threshold", "The Sign of Consecration" and "The Sign of Attacking". It represents the involution and bringing forward of the Light into the material to aid the Will of the Neophyte in his/her search for and aspiration toward his/her True Self. It is a Sign of tremendous Attacking Force and of projection of Will Power. It may be used in the Magical Acts of consecrating and charging Talismans or other objects of the Great Work.

The second Sign is the Sign of Silence, and is given thus: <Place your right fore-finger on your lower lip.> This is the Sign of Hoor-Paar-Kraat, the Concealed Child of the New Aeon. This Sign has a double meaning. Firstly, it is the Sign of Defense. It is a Protection against all attack and danger of obsession. Secondly, it alludes to your obligation to keep sacred and inviolate all real secrets and true mysteries of the Thelemic Order of the Golden Dawn, to keep silence regarding those most holy secrets and mysteries in the presence of the profane, to never reveal what must not be told. The first sign is always answered by the second.

The Word of the Neophyte Grade is HOOR-PA-KRAAT. It is the Egyptian Name for the God of Silence, also called Harpocrates in the Greek tongue. Hoor-Pa-Kraat is the Concealed Child of the New Aeon and represents the Current of Forces ruling the earth at present. He is a Universal Symbol of the Silent Self or Holy Guardian Angel within. His Name, or the Word of this Grade, can be used as an Invocation of the Spirit of the Grade. When properly vibrated in the Sign of Silence, it becomes a Magical Word of Spiritual Power and Protection for the Neophyte of Magick.

Advance forward and place yourself between the two Pillars of the Temple, and say:

I will now perform the final Purification and Consecration.

Dip your thumb in the Lustral Water, make with it a Cross on your Brow, sprinkle yourself three times, and say:

I purify myself with Water.

Make a Cross with the Censer, and waving it toward yourself three times, say:

I consecrate myself with Fire.

I will now perform the Mystick Circumambulation in the Path-way of Light.

Circumambulate clockwise, three times, giving the Sign of Horus on passing the East.

THE LECTURE
OF BALANCE

Now position yourself between the Two Pillars of the Temple, assume the Stance of Equilibrium (Sign of the Cross), and say:

I will now read and impress upon myself the Lecture of Balance, so that I may understand the importance of the Path of Equilibrium as essential to magical progress.

Learn first ― Oh thou who aspirest unto our New Order of Thelema! ― that Equilibrium is the basis of the Great Work. If thou thy self hast not a sure foundation, whereon wilt thou stand to direct the forces of Nature?

Know then, that as man is born into this world amidst the Darkness of Matter, and the strife of contending forces; so must his first endeavor be to seek the Light through their reconciliation.

Thou then, who hast trials and troubles, rejoice because of them, for in them is Strength, and by their means is a pathway opened unto that Light.

How should it be otherwise, O man, whose life is but a day in Eternity, a drop in the Ocean of Time; how, were thy trials not many, couldest thou purge thy soul from the dross of the earth?

Rejoice therefore, O Initiate, for the greater thy trial the greater thy Triumph!

Yet, oh aspirant, let thy victories bring thee not vanity, for with increase of Knowledge should come increase of Wisdom. He who knoweth little, thinketh he knoweth much; but he who knoweth much hath learned his own ignorance.

Thou therefore who desirest Magical Gifts, be sure that thy soul is firm and steadfast; for it is by flattering thy weaknesses that the Weak Ones will gain power over thee.

Humble thyself before thy Self, yet fear neither man nor spirit. Fear is failure, and the forerunner of failure: and courage is the beginning of virtue.

Therefore fear not the Spirits, but be firm and courteous with them; for thou hast no right to despise or revile them; and this too may lead thee astray. Command and banish them, curse them by the Great Names if need be; but neither mock nor revile them, for so assuredly wilt thou be led into error.

A man is what he maketh himself within the limits fixed by his inherited destiny; he is a part of mankind; his actions affect not only what he calleth himself, but also the whole Universe.

Worship, and neglect not, the physical body, which is thy temporary connection with the outer and material world. Therefore let thy mental Equilibrium be above disturbance by material events; strengthen and control the animal passions, discipline the emotions and the reason, nourish the Higher Aspirations.

Remember that unbalanced force is but folly and stupidity; that unbalanced severity is but cruelty and oppression; but that also unbalanced mercy is but weakness that would allow and abet ignorance.

Act passionately; think rationally; be Thyself.

True Ritual is as much action as word; it is Will.

Remember that this earth is but an atom in the Universe, and that thou thyself art but an atom thereon, and that even couldest thou become the God of this earth whereon thou crawlest and grovellest, that thou wouldest, even then, be but an atom, and one amongst many.

Nevertheless have the greatest self-respect, and to that end sin not against thyself. The sin which is unpardonable is knowingly and willfully to deny truth, to fear knowledge lest that knowledge pander not to thy prejudices.

To obtain Magical Power, learn to control thought; admit only those ideas that are in harmony with the end desired, and not every stray and contradictory idea that presents itself.

Fixed thought is a means to an end. Therefore pay attention to the power of silent thought and meditation. The material act is but the outward expression of thy thought. Thought is the commencement of action, and if a chance thought could produce much effect, what cannot fixed thought do?

Therefore, as hath already been said, Establish thyself firmly in the equilibrium of forces, in the center of the Cross of the Elements, that Cross from whose center the Creative Word issued in the birth of the Dawning Universe!

THE PROCLAMATION
OF THE NEOPHYTE

In the Name of the Supreme and Terrible Lord of the Universe, Crowned and Conquering, and by the magical lineage of Frater A.·. A.·., I now proclaim that I, [Public Name], who will henceforth be known by the Motto [Neophyte Motto], have initiated myself as a Neophyte in the Thelemic Order of the Golden Dawn.

Make the Signs of the Neophyte.

THE CLOSING

Go to the Center of the Temple, knock 3-5-3 on the Altar, and say:

Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.

Go to the East of the Temple.

Take up the Cup of Purification, hold it up toward the East, and say:

So therefore first the initiate who governeth the works of Fire must sprinkle with the Lustral Waters of the resounding Sea.

Make a Cross in the Air with the Cup, and sprinkle a few drops of Water three times toward the East. Pass to the South, West and North, repeating the purification in each quarter, then return to the East, and say:

I purify the Temple with Water.

Take up the Censer of Consecration, hold it up toward the East, and say:

And when all the phantoms have vanished, thou shalt see that Holy and Formless Fire, that Fire which darts and flashes through the hidden depths of the Universe.

Make a Cross in the Air with the Censer, and swing it thrice toward the East. Pass to the South, West and North, repeating the censing at each quarter, then return to the East, and say:

I consecrate the Temple with Fire.

Circumambulate three times, counterclockwise, giving the Sign of Horus when passing the East, and then say:

The Mystick Circumambulation is accomplished. It is the symbol of the Fading Light.

Go to the Center of the Temple, face East, give the Sign of Horus, and say:

Unity uttermost showed!
I adore the might of Thy breath,
Supreme and Terrible God,
Who makest the gods and death
To tremble before Thee: --
I, I adore Thee!

Appear on the Throne of Ra!
Open the ways of the Khu!
Lighten the ways of the Ka!
The ways of the Khabs run through
To stir me or still me!
Aum! let it fill me!

Return in the Sign of Silence.

Nothing now remains but to partake of the Mystick Repast, composed of the symbols of the Four Elements, and to establish myself in the Center of the Holy Cross, in the Sanctuary of my Soul.

Take up the Rose.

I inhale the perfume of this Sacred Rose, as a symbol of the Element of Air and Liberty.

Smell the Rose.

I feel the warmth of this Sacred Flame, as a symbol of the Element of Fire and Light.

Spread your hands over the Fire.

I eat this Cake of Light (or Sacred Bread and Salt), as a symbol of the Element of Earth and Life.

If you are not using a Cake of Light, then dip the Bread in the Salt and eat it.

And finally, I drink this Sacred Wine (or Holy Water if under twenty-one years of age), as a symbol of the Element of Water and Love.

Make a Cross with the Cup and drink from it.

It is done!

Replace the Cup.

Knock and say: KHABS.
Knock and say: AM.
Knock and say: PEKHT.

Knock and say: KONX.
Knock and say: OM.
Knock and say: PAX.

Knock and say: LIGHT.
Knock and say: IN.
Knock and say: EXTENSION.

Now say:

In the Name of the Crowned and Conquering Lord of the Universe, I declare that the Temple of the Neophyte is duly closed.

May what I have partaken maintain me in my search for the QUINTESSENCE, the Stone of the Philosophers, the SUMMUM BONUM, True Wisdom and Perfect Happiness.

Knock 3-5-3, and say:

Love is the law, love under will.

ABRAHADABRA.

Make the Signs of the Neophyte toward the East of the Temple, and depart from the Temple in the Sign of Silence, yea, depart from the Temple in the Sign of Silence.

Abundance Spell

You will need the following items for this spell:

• 1 Green Candle 
• Cloth of green 
• Gold ribbon or cord 
• pinch of corn meal 
• Pinch of wheat 
• Pinch of chamomile 
• Pinch of cinnamon 
• Pinch of Lavender 
• Pinch of ground ginger

Casting Instructions 

Start by invoking your divinities of abundance, such as Dionysos or Plutos. Never invoke divinities you are not aligned with.

After general prayers and offerings, (cinnamon is a great incense for such a spell) take up the green candle and hold it in both hands. Chant the following:

"Dear _________, God/dess of abundance,

To you I pray,

Here in this hour I ask to lend your power.

Imbue this candle I hold,

With the great gift of abundance.

Abundance in ____(Your desire____)."

Repeat this 9 times as you charge the candle with green energy. Feel the power of this energy come from within you out your hands and empower the candle. Just like a superhero would cast superpowers out of his/her hands.

When done place the candle down. and light it. Place youe hands about the glow of the light (not too close) and chant:

"Radiant power of abundance now give your power.

lend your abundant energy to this satchet craft.

And empower me as you empower the satchet.

Guide my hands properly."

Now take up the green cloth and place it on the table/floor. Take a pinch of each of the herbs and pour it into the center of the cloth. Bundle it up tight and tie it closed with the gold cord or ribbon. No need to rush this. (Take your time and think on the abundant gifts of each herb.)

Now hold the bundle in your hand and say:

"Bundled tight in green candle light,

Bundle and mixed with a magickal twix

Bundled in green to with a magickal sheen

Bundled in gold, abundance inside it does hold."

Say this a total 9 times.

Now place this bundle next to the candle. Hold your hands over the candle and bundle and chant:

"Divine god/dess _______ to you I ask

gift your gifts to this spell.

Imbue this satche and candle with your gifts,

and your divine energy.

This I so ask."

Now leave the satchet in the glow of the green candle and let the candle burn down till nothing is left. When done, take the satchet and hide it in your house, somewhere safe. Do not place it near a window or door. If Abundance is a dire need, you can make 4 satchets and place them in the four corners of your home.

(If the abundance you want is indeed money, place a couple of coins in the satchet as well.)

Opening the Ways

About the Rite: This is the all-purpose opening ritual of the House of Isis. It can serve as an beginning of almost any other rite or it can be an entire working by itself. It is an excellent opening for personal work or communion with Isis. This version is slightly different from the versions given in Isis Magic in that it acknowledges Isis as Lady of the Otherworld when we open the Way which is symbolically beneath our feet. If you prefer, you can certainly use “Earth” at your feet as is given in the book.

ENTERING

The Priest/ess enters the temple, faces East, and gives the Sign of the Wings Of Isis.

Priest/ess: I am a Daughter/Son of Isis. I am a Child of the Goddess. (Repeating until s/he feels it to be true.)

PURIFICATION & CONSECRATION

Priest/ess performs the purification and consecration learned as a Votary. When this is complete, s/he returns to center of temple, facing East, and makes the Sign of the Wings of Isis.

Priest/ess: Isis is all things and all things are Isis.

THE OPENING

Standing in the West, facing East, the Priest/ess raises her/his arms in the Sign of the Wings Of Isis.

Priest/ess: Open, O Heaven! Open, O Earth! Open, O East! Open, O West! Open, O South! Open, O North! The gates of Thy temple shall be flung wide for Thee, Goddess Isis!

S/he moves to the center of the temple; visualizes her/his aura as a glowing egg completely surrounding the body. 

S/he gives the Sign of Opening the Shrine.

Priest/ess: Let the shrine of the East be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET NEF.

S/he visualizes the Eastern part of her/his aura becoming as a glowing net—complete, yet open to the Goddess. 

Next s/he turns to the South and repeats the entire procedure.

Priest/ess: (Facing South) Let the shrine of the South be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET ASH.

(Facing West) Let the shrine of the West be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET MU.

(Facing North) Let the shrine of the North be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET TA.

Facing East once more, s/he extends her/his arms above her/his head, gives the Sign of the Opening of the Shrine.

Priest/ess: Let the shrine of Heaven be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET BA.

S/he repeats the Sign below her/himself.

Priest/ess: Let the shrine of the Otherworld be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET KA.

S/he repeats the opening motion, starting from the heart and moving outward.

Priest/ess: Let the shrine of my Heart be opened unto Isis, only Isis. (Vibrating) ISET IB.

Let the Priest/ess visualize doors opening in her/his heart—chains falling away, shells breaking open.

INVOCATION

Priest/ess continues to face East and makes the Sign of the Wings of Isis.

Priest/ess: I have opened the ways for Thee, Goddess Isis.

S/he turns her/his arms inward to the cup posture and invokes:

Priest/ess: Come, therefore, Winged One and fill this vessel, Thy Priest/ess. Grace me, Isis, with Thy presence. Enter into Thy House and be with Thy daughter/son. O come Beloved One, Great of Magic, Beautiful of Wings, Bright of Face. Open my eyes to Thine everywhere-presence. Awaken my heart to the voice of Thy beating wings. Make bare my soul to the beauty of Thy Words of Power.

I arise on wings of aspiration to Thee, O Isis. Come, descend from above, arise from below, expand from within—and fill me, Goddess. From the rising bud of the lotus, to the mighty branch of the sycamore, to the Moon and Sun which are Thine eyes, to the Stars which entwine Thy hair, all the Universe is Thine, Isis—as am I.

O Isis, Goddess, Mother, Sister, Queen—the Ways are open unto Thee—I am open unto Thee. I invite Thee—enter in now! (Vibrating thrice) ISIS. ISIS. ISIS.

As s/he visualizes the Light of Isis filling the cup s/he is making with her/his arms. When s/he feels it is full enough, s/he slowly lowers her/his arms, letting the Light pour into her/his aura. Now is the time to commune with the Goddess or perform other work.

CLOSING

Facing East and giving the Sign of the Closing of the Shrine, the Priest/ess visualizes her/his aura as solid again. S/he begins at the heart and moves in reverse order.

Priest/ess: Let the shrine of my Heart be closed.

Let the shrine of the Otherworld be closed.

Let the shrine of Heaven be closed.

Let the shrine of the North be closed.

Let the shrine of the West be closed.

Let the shrine of the South be closed.

Let the shrine of the East be closed.

Priest/ess thanks the Goddess, makes the Sign of the Wings of Isis, then quits the temple.