Path of Theurgy

 

The Pronaos

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First, Second, Third, and Fourth Levels

The degrees of Aurum Solis are traditionally called “Halls.” Each degree has a specific curriculum of individual practices that each Companion (initiate) follows at home. This curriculum incorporates astrological cycles. Since the tradition has its roots in Egypt, the Egyptian tradition forms the central axis of all four degrees, guiding Companions as they progress through the main curriculum. Progress is individual and follows this sequence of practices, so the time required for each stage may vary.

Alongside this practical work, every Companion is expected to demonstrate an understanding of the tradition, personal ethical integrity, and involvement in the Order’s activities.

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1. The first degree is Neophytos. Its formal title is “Apprentice of the Great Work.” Initiation takes place in person. A spiritual or magical name is given to the new initiate during the ceremony.

2. The second degree is Servitor. Its formal title is “Servitor of the Secret Flame.” The Second Hall encompasses the Minor Mysteries. Much of its curriculum focuses on the Orphic Mysteries, providing Companions with the keys necessary for this life and the afterlife.

3. The third degree is Adeptus Minor. Its formal title is “Priest of the Gnosis.” Initiation takes place in a temple called the Naos. The Third Hall marks the beginning of the Greater, or Major, Mysteries, opening the gates to the true Theurgic and Hermetic Tradition of the Egyptian Ptolemaic system.

Attainment at this level rests on personal accomplishment, which prepares the initiate to advance to the next degree.

4. The fourth degree is Adeptus Plenus. Once the requirements for this degree have been met, the Grand Master personally confers the initiation. After completing the curriculum of the Third Hall, Companions prepare for the Order’s major operations under supervision. This work is individual and proceeds according to each person’s progress.

As stated by the previous Grand Master in the “Charter of Authority,” the current Grand Master is the only person ever to have received both the initiatory authority and the complete rituals of Adeptus Plenus. He therefore personally confers initiation into this degree.

This stage enables Companions to advance further along the path. It includes periods of retreat during which they can fulfill important functions within the tradition and deepen their own practice.

It is difficult to provide details about these advanced aspects of the path. We can simply say that they lie at the heart of Theurgy. Reading Iamblichus and the Asclepius can shed considerable light on them.

Initiates of the Adeptus Minor and Adeptus Plenus degrees may also participate in the services of the Order’s Naos. These periods of activity are open only to those who receive a special invitation from the Collegium Cathedrarum.

In addition to the main curriculum, initiates of these degrees conduct research on advanced topics proposed by the Collegium Cathedrarum.

Other ritual work specific to Aurum Solis takes place in the presence of the Grand Master. This includes the activities of the Collegium Cathedrarum, the Stella Gloriosa, the Star Council, and the Masters’ Council, as well as other ritual meetings.

 

Note: Although this description of the four degrees may suggest that their functions are separate, most practices within a local group, or House, of the Order bring initiates of all degrees together.