Thelemapedia - User contributions [en]

Babalon

2009-07-31T20:07:30Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Links of interest */

[[Image:Babalon.jpg|right|frame|Babalon as depicted in the card "[[Tarot:Lust|Lust]]" in the Thoth [[Tarot]] deck]]'''Babalon''' is referred to as the Scarlet Woman, the Great Mother, and the Mother of Abominations. Her godform is that of a [[sacred whore]], and her primary symbol is the [[Chalice]] or [[Graal]]. Her consort is [[Chaos]], the “Father of Life” and the male form of the Creative Principle. Babalon is often described as being girt with a sword and riding the [[To Mega Therion|Beast]], with whom [[Aleister Crowley]] personally identified. As [[Aleister Crowley]] wrote, “She rides astride the Beast; in her left hand she holds the reins, representing the passion which unites them. In her right she holds aloft the cup, the Holy Grail aflame with love and death. In this cup are mingled the elements of the sacrament of the Aeon” (''[[Book of Thoth]]''). In a more general sense, Babalon represents the liberated woman and the full expression of the sexual impulse.

==Babalon as the Gateway to the City of Pyramids==
Within the mystical system of Crowley, the adept reaches a final stage where he or she must cross the [[Abyss]], that great wilderness of nothingness and dissolution. [[Choronzon]] is the dweller there, and his job is to trap the traveler in his meaningless world of illusion. However, Babalon is on just the other side, beckoning. If the adept gives himself to her—the symbol of this act is the pouring of the adept’s blood into her graal—he becomes impregnated in her, then to be reborn as a master and a saint that dwells in the [[City of the Pyramids]]. This process is beautifully described in the 15th Aethyr of ''The Vision and the Voice:''

:''As the dancer whirls, she chants in a strange, slow voice, quickening as she goes: Lo! I gather up every spirit that is pure, and weave him into my vesture of flame. I lick up the lives of men, and their souls sparkle from mine eyes. I am the mighty sorceress, the lust of the spirit. And by my dancing I gather for my mother Nuit the heads of all them that are baptized in the waters of life. I am the lust of the spirit that eateth up the soul of man. I have prepared a feast for the adepts, and they that partake thereof shall see God.''

The concept contained within Babalon is that of the mystical ideal, the quest to become one with all. This process necessarily requires refusing to deny anything, becoming perfectly passive the world, allowing all experience to come forward, abandoning oneself into the deluge of sensation. Through this, the mystic comes to direct contact with life, formulating the wine of the [[Graal]], being the distilled understanding derived from raw experience. This process clearly has its analogue in the career of the lady of the night.

Babalon is described in various places in the Thelemic texts, but her most edifying appearance is in ''The Vision and the Voice,'' as part of the vision which explains the function of the Chalice:

:''Let him look upon the cup whose blood is mingled therein, for the wine of the cup is the blood of the saints. Glory unto the Scarlet Woman, Babalon the Mother of Abominations, that rideth upon the Beast, for she hath spilt their blood in every corner of the earth and lo! she hath mingled it in the cup of her whoredom.''

:''With the breath of her kisses hath she fermented it, and it hath become the wine of the Sacrament, the wine of the Sabbath; and in the Holy Assembly hath she poured it out for her worshipers, and they had become drunken thereon, so that face to face they beheld my Father. Thus are they made worthy to become partakers of the Mystery of this holy vessel, for the blood is the life. So sitteth she from age to age, and the righteous are never weary of her kisses, and by her murders and fornications she seduceth the world. Therein is manifested the glory of my Father, who is truth.''

:''(This wine is such that its virtue radiateth through the cup, and I reel under the intoxication of it. And every thought is destroyed by it. It abideth alone, and its name is Compassion. I understand by "Compassion," the sacrament of suffering, partaken by the true worshipers of the Highest. And it is an ecstasy in which there is no trace of pain. Its passivity (=passion) is like the giving-up of the self to the beloved.)''

—''The Vision and the Voice'', 12th Aethyr, Aleister Crowley.

The spelling of her Name as 'Babalon' is not revealed until the vision of the 10th Aethyr, where it is used to banish the forces of [[Choronzon]]. The discovery of the spelling represents Crowley successfully crossing the [[Abyss]], and entering into the Sphere of [[Binah]], which is also attributed to Babalon.

==The Great Whore==

Babalon bears this title because she denies no one, and yet she extracts a great price—the very blood of the adept and his ego-identity as an earthly individual. This aspect of Babalon is described further from the 12th Aethyr:

:''This is the Mystery of Babylon, the Mother of Abominations, and this is the mystery of her adulteries, for she hath yielded up herself to everything that liveth, and hath become a partaker in its mystery. And because she hath made her self the servant of each, therefore is she become the mistress of all. Not as yet canst thou comprehend her glory.''

:''Beautiful art thou, O Babylon, and desirable, for thou hast given thyself to everything that liveth, and thy weakness hath subdued their strength. For in that union thou didst understand. Therefore art thou called Understanding, O Babylon, Lady of the Night!''

==The office of the Scarlet Woman==

Although Crowley often wrote that Babalon and the Scarlet Woman are one, there are also many instances where the Scarlet Woman is seen more as a representative or physical manifestation of the universal feminine principle. In a footnote to [[Liber Reguli]], Crowley mentions that of the “Gods of the Aeon,” the Scarlet Woman and the Beast are “the earthly emissaries of those Gods.” He then writes in ''Commentaries:''

:''It is necessary to say here that The Beast appears to be a definite individual; to wit, the man Aleister Crowley. But the Scarlet Woman is an officer replaceable as need arises. Thus to this present date of writing, Anno XVI, Sun in Sagittarius, there have been several holders of the title.''

===Individual Scarlet Women===

Aleister Crowley believed that many of his lovers were playing a cosmic role, even to the point of fulfilling prophesy. The following is a list of women that he considered to have been (or might have been) Scarlet Women (quotes are from ''Commentaries''):

*[[Rose Kelly|Rose Edith Crowley]] nee Kelly, Crowley's first wife. —''Put me in touch with Aiwas; see Equinox 1, 7, "The Temple of Solomon the King." Failed as elsewhere is on record.''
*[[Mary d'Este Sturges]] nee Dempsey. —''Put me in touch with Abuldiz; hence helped with Book 4. Failed from personal jealousies.''
*[[Jeanne Robert Foster]] nee Oliver. —''Bore the "child" to whom this Book refers later. Failed from respectability.''
*[[Roddie Minor]] —''Brought me in touch with [[Amalantrah]]. Failed from indifference to the Work.''
*[[Marie Rohling]] nee Lavroff. —''Helped to inspire Liber CXI. Failed from indecision.''
*[[Bertha Almira Prykryl]] nee Bruce. —''Delayed assumption of duties, hence made way for No. 7.''
*[[Leah Hirsig]] —''Assisted me in actual initiation; still at my side, An XVII, Sol in Sagittarius.''

Many modern Thelemites believe that the essential form of the Scarlet Woman (as well as the Beast) can be fulfilled by any magician who so chooses.

==As the Great Mother==
Within the [[Gnostic Mass]], Babalon is mentioned in the [[Gnostic Creed]]:

:''And I believe in one Earth, the Mother of us all, and in one Womb wherein all men are begotten, and wherein they shall rest, Mystery of Mystery, in Her name BABALON.''

Babalon is identified with [[Binah]] on the [[Tree of Life]], the sphere that represents the Great Sea and the mother-goddesses [[Isis]], [[Bhavani]], and [[Muat]]. Moreover, she represents all physical mothers. Sabazius and Helena (1998) write:

:''BABALON, as the Great Mother, represents MATTER, a word which is derived from the Latin word for Mother. She is the physical mother of each of us, the one who provided us with material flesh to clothe our naked spirits; She is the Archetypal Mother, the Great Yoni, the Womb of all that lives through the flowing of Blood; She is the Great Sea, the Divine Blood itself which cloaks the World and which courses through our veins; and She is Mother Earth, the Womb of All Life that we know.''

==Babalon in the Book of Lies==
The 49th chapter of Crowley's ''Book of Lies'', called "Waratah-Blossoms", is dedicated to Babalon:

Seven are the veils of the dancing-girl in the harem
of [[IT]].
Seven are the names, and seven are the lamps beside
Her bed.
Seven eunuchs guard Her with drawn swords; No
Man may come nigh unto Her.
In Her wine-cup are seven streams of the blood of
the Seven Spirits of God.
Seven are the heads of [[To Mega Therion|THE BEAST]] whereon She
rideth.
The head of an Angel: the head of a Saint: the head
of a Poet: the head of An Adulterous Woman: the
head of a Man of Valour: the head of a [[Satyr]]:
and the head of a [[Lion-Serpent]].
Seven letters hath Her holiest name; and it is

::[[Image:Babalon_seal.gif|none]]

This is the Seal upon the Ring that is on the Fore-
finger of IT: and it is the Seal upon the Tombs of
them whom She hath slain.
Here is [[Chokmah|Wisdom]]. Let Him that hath [[Binah|Understanding]]
count the Number of Our Lady; for it is the
Number of a Woman; and Her Number is
[[156|An Hundred and Fifty and Six]].

===Crowley's Commentary===
On this chapter, Crowley writes:

:[[49]] is the square of [[7]]. 7 is the passive and feminine number. The chapter should be read in connection with Chapter [[31]] for IT now reappears. The chapter heading, the Waratah, is a voluptuous scarlet flower, common in Australia, and this connects the chapter with Chapters 28 and 29; but this is only an allusion, for the subject of the chapter is OUR LADY BABALON, who is conceived as the feminine counterpart of IT. This does not agree very well with the common or orthodox theogony of Chapter [[11]]; but it is to be explained by the dithyrambic nature of the chapter. In paragraph 3 NO MAN is of course [[NEMO]], the [[Master of the Temple]], [[Liber 418]] will explain most of the allusions in this chapter. In paragraphs 5 and 6 the author frankly identifies himself with the [[To Mega Therion|BEAST]] referred to in the book, and in the Apocalypse, and in [[The Book of the Law|LIBER LEGIS]]. In paragraph 6 the word "angel" may refer to his mission, and the word "[[lion-serpent]]" to the sigil of his ascending decan. ([[Path of Teth|Teth]] = [[Snake]] = [[spermatozoon]] and [[Leo]] in the [[Zodiac]], which like Teth itself has the snake-form. theta first written {Sun} = [[Lingam-Yoni]] and [[Sol]].) Paragraph 7 explains the theological difficulty referred to above. There is only one symbol, but this symbol has many names: of those names BABALON is the holiest. It is the name referred to in [[Liber Legis]], 1, 22. It will be noticed that the figure, or [[sigil]], of BABALON is a [[seal]] upon a ring, and this ring is upon the forefinger of IT. This identifies further the symbol with itself. It is...said to be the seal upon the tombs of them that she hath slain, that is, of the Masters of the Temple."

==The Scarlet Woman in the Book of the Law==
From Chapter I:
:15. Now ye shall know that the chosen priest & apostle of infinite space is the prince-priest the Beast; and in his woman called the Scarlet Woman is all power given. They shall gather my children into their fold: they shall bring the glory of the stars into the hearts of men. 
:16. For he is ever a sun, and she a moon. But to him is the winged secret flame, and to her the stooping starlight. 
:—AL I:15-16

From Chapter III:
:43. Let the Scarlet Woman beware! If pity and compassion and tenderness visit her heart; if she leave my work to toy with old sweetnesses; then shall my vengeance be known. I will slay me her child: I will alienate her heart: I will cast her out from men; as a shrinking and despised harlot shall she crawl through dusk wet streets, and die cold and an-hungered. 
:44. But let her raise herself with pride! Let her follow me in my way! Let her work the work of wickedness! Let her kill her heart! Let her be loud and adulterous! Let her be covered with jewels, and rich garments, and let her be shameless before all men! 
:45. Then will I lift her to pinnacles of power: then will I breed from her a child mightier than all the kings of the earth. I will fill her with joy: with my force shall she see & strike at the worship of Nu: she shall achieve Hadit. 
:—AL III:43-45

==Biblical origins==
Principally, the godform of Babalon seems to be derived from a scene in the [[Book of Revelations|Revelations]], a source of much inspiration in Crowley's cosmology. In "Revelations", we find this passage:

:''So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.'' :— Revelations 17:3-6

The text goes on to identify her as the female complement of the [[To Mega Therion|Beast]], an image also transported into [[Thelema]].

==Etymology==
The name '''Babalon''' may derive from several sources. Firstly, there is the obvious resemblance to [[Babylon]]. Babylon was a major city in [[Mesopotamia]], part of the [[Sumerian]] culture. Coincidentally, the [[Sumerian]] deity [[Ishtar]] bears an uncanny resemblance to the Crowleyan Babalon. Babylon itself is a city that is referred to in several places in the Bible, usually as an image of a once-glorious paradise that has fallen into ruin, a warning against the evils of decadence:

:''And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.'' —Revelations 18:1-5

A second possibility is from the [[Enochian]] word ''BABALOND'', which is translated ''a harlot''. This is most probable, given that ''The Vision and the Voice'' was obtained by Crowley through skrying, after he had conducted invocations using the [[Enochian]] system of magick.

Crowley probably chose the spelling of ''Babalon'' for its Qabalistic significance. By replacing the letter 'y' with an 'a', the word 'AL' appears in the center. The whole then naturally breaks into ''Bab-al-on''. 'Bab' is Arabic for a door, or gate. 'AL' is the Key of [[Liber Legis]], and is also a Qabalistic title of God, meaning 'The One' in Hebrew. 'On' is the name of the [[Egyptian]] city that the Greeks called [[Heliopolis]], the [[City of the Pyramids]]. By [[gematria]], Babalon sums to 156, which is the number of squares on each of the elemental Enochian tablets of Dee and Kelly. These tablets are themselves identified with the City of the Pyramids, with each square being the base of a pyramid.

==See also==

*The [[Babalon Working]] of [[Jack Parsons]]
*The [[Gnostic Creed]]
*[[Binah]]
*[[Barbelo]]

==Links of interest==

*''[http://mysteria.com/liber/L_418.txt The Vision and the Voice]''—especially Aethyrs 15, 12, 3, and 2.
*[http://www.hermetic.com/wisdom/lib49.html The Book of Babalon (Liber 49)] by Jack Parsons
*[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber Cheth vel Vallvm Abiegni]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/aba/chap7.html Chapter VII: The Formula of the Holy Graal] in ''Book 4.''
*[http://babalon.net/ Babalon.net]. Great resource on Jack Parsons and his relationship with Babalon.
*[http://hermetic.com/dionysos/art2.htm Discourse on the Second Article]. A sermon on Babalon, as interpreted through the [[Gnostic Creed]].

==References==
*Crowley, Aleister. (1998). ''The Vision & the Voice : the Equinox, IV(2).'' York Beach, Me. : Samuel Weiser.
*___. (1997). ''The Book of the Law [Liber AL vel Legis].'' York Beach, Me. : S. Weiser.
*___. (1996). ''Commentaries on the Holy Books and Other Papers : the Equinox,IV(1).'' York Beach, Me. : S. Weiser.
*___. (1981). ''The Book of Thoth.'' New York, S. Weiser.
*___. (1995). ''The Book of Lies.'' York Beach, Me. : S. Weiser.
*''The Bible'', King James Version.
*Sabazius & Helena. (1998). ''[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/creed_egc.htm The Creed of the Gnostic Catholic Church: an Examination].''

[[Category:Thelema]]
[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Godforms]]
[[Category:Thelemic terms]]

Babalon

2009-07-31T20:06:36Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Links of interest */ T Polyphilus sermon

[[Image:Babalon.jpg|right|frame|Babalon as depicted in the card "[[Tarot:Lust|Lust]]" in the Thoth [[Tarot]] deck]]'''Babalon''' is referred to as the Scarlet Woman, the Great Mother, and the Mother of Abominations. Her godform is that of a [[sacred whore]], and her primary symbol is the [[Chalice]] or [[Graal]]. Her consort is [[Chaos]], the “Father of Life” and the male form of the Creative Principle. Babalon is often described as being girt with a sword and riding the [[To Mega Therion|Beast]], with whom [[Aleister Crowley]] personally identified. As [[Aleister Crowley]] wrote, “She rides astride the Beast; in her left hand she holds the reins, representing the passion which unites them. In her right she holds aloft the cup, the Holy Grail aflame with love and death. In this cup are mingled the elements of the sacrament of the Aeon” (''[[Book of Thoth]]''). In a more general sense, Babalon represents the liberated woman and the full expression of the sexual impulse.

==Babalon as the Gateway to the City of Pyramids==
Within the mystical system of Crowley, the adept reaches a final stage where he or she must cross the [[Abyss]], that great wilderness of nothingness and dissolution. [[Choronzon]] is the dweller there, and his job is to trap the traveler in his meaningless world of illusion. However, Babalon is on just the other side, beckoning. If the adept gives himself to her—the symbol of this act is the pouring of the adept’s blood into her graal—he becomes impregnated in her, then to be reborn as a master and a saint that dwells in the [[City of the Pyramids]]. This process is beautifully described in the 15th Aethyr of ''The Vision and the Voice:''

:''As the dancer whirls, she chants in a strange, slow voice, quickening as she goes: Lo! I gather up every spirit that is pure, and weave him into my vesture of flame. I lick up the lives of men, and their souls sparkle from mine eyes. I am the mighty sorceress, the lust of the spirit. And by my dancing I gather for my mother Nuit the heads of all them that are baptized in the waters of life. I am the lust of the spirit that eateth up the soul of man. I have prepared a feast for the adepts, and they that partake thereof shall see God.''

The concept contained within Babalon is that of the mystical ideal, the quest to become one with all. This process necessarily requires refusing to deny anything, becoming perfectly passive the world, allowing all experience to come forward, abandoning oneself into the deluge of sensation. Through this, the mystic comes to direct contact with life, formulating the wine of the [[Graal]], being the distilled understanding derived from raw experience. This process clearly has its analogue in the career of the lady of the night.

Babalon is described in various places in the Thelemic texts, but her most edifying appearance is in ''The Vision and the Voice,'' as part of the vision which explains the function of the Chalice:

:''Let him look upon the cup whose blood is mingled therein, for the wine of the cup is the blood of the saints. Glory unto the Scarlet Woman, Babalon the Mother of Abominations, that rideth upon the Beast, for she hath spilt their blood in every corner of the earth and lo! she hath mingled it in the cup of her whoredom.''

:''With the breath of her kisses hath she fermented it, and it hath become the wine of the Sacrament, the wine of the Sabbath; and in the Holy Assembly hath she poured it out for her worshipers, and they had become drunken thereon, so that face to face they beheld my Father. Thus are they made worthy to become partakers of the Mystery of this holy vessel, for the blood is the life. So sitteth she from age to age, and the righteous are never weary of her kisses, and by her murders and fornications she seduceth the world. Therein is manifested the glory of my Father, who is truth.''

:''(This wine is such that its virtue radiateth through the cup, and I reel under the intoxication of it. And every thought is destroyed by it. It abideth alone, and its name is Compassion. I understand by "Compassion," the sacrament of suffering, partaken by the true worshipers of the Highest. And it is an ecstasy in which there is no trace of pain. Its passivity (=passion) is like the giving-up of the self to the beloved.)''

—''The Vision and the Voice'', 12th Aethyr, Aleister Crowley.

The spelling of her Name as 'Babalon' is not revealed until the vision of the 10th Aethyr, where it is used to banish the forces of [[Choronzon]]. The discovery of the spelling represents Crowley successfully crossing the [[Abyss]], and entering into the Sphere of [[Binah]], which is also attributed to Babalon.

==The Great Whore==

Babalon bears this title because she denies no one, and yet she extracts a great price—the very blood of the adept and his ego-identity as an earthly individual. This aspect of Babalon is described further from the 12th Aethyr:

:''This is the Mystery of Babylon, the Mother of Abominations, and this is the mystery of her adulteries, for she hath yielded up herself to everything that liveth, and hath become a partaker in its mystery. And because she hath made her self the servant of each, therefore is she become the mistress of all. Not as yet canst thou comprehend her glory.''

:''Beautiful art thou, O Babylon, and desirable, for thou hast given thyself to everything that liveth, and thy weakness hath subdued their strength. For in that union thou didst understand. Therefore art thou called Understanding, O Babylon, Lady of the Night!''

==The office of the Scarlet Woman==

Although Crowley often wrote that Babalon and the Scarlet Woman are one, there are also many instances where the Scarlet Woman is seen more as a representative or physical manifestation of the universal feminine principle. In a footnote to [[Liber Reguli]], Crowley mentions that of the “Gods of the Aeon,” the Scarlet Woman and the Beast are “the earthly emissaries of those Gods.” He then writes in ''Commentaries:''

:''It is necessary to say here that The Beast appears to be a definite individual; to wit, the man Aleister Crowley. But the Scarlet Woman is an officer replaceable as need arises. Thus to this present date of writing, Anno XVI, Sun in Sagittarius, there have been several holders of the title.''

===Individual Scarlet Women===

Aleister Crowley believed that many of his lovers were playing a cosmic role, even to the point of fulfilling prophesy. The following is a list of women that he considered to have been (or might have been) Scarlet Women (quotes are from ''Commentaries''):

*[[Rose Kelly|Rose Edith Crowley]] nee Kelly, Crowley's first wife. —''Put me in touch with Aiwas; see Equinox 1, 7, "The Temple of Solomon the King." Failed as elsewhere is on record.''
*[[Mary d'Este Sturges]] nee Dempsey. —''Put me in touch with Abuldiz; hence helped with Book 4. Failed from personal jealousies.''
*[[Jeanne Robert Foster]] nee Oliver. —''Bore the "child" to whom this Book refers later. Failed from respectability.''
*[[Roddie Minor]] —''Brought me in touch with [[Amalantrah]]. Failed from indifference to the Work.''
*[[Marie Rohling]] nee Lavroff. —''Helped to inspire Liber CXI. Failed from indecision.''
*[[Bertha Almira Prykryl]] nee Bruce. —''Delayed assumption of duties, hence made way for No. 7.''
*[[Leah Hirsig]] —''Assisted me in actual initiation; still at my side, An XVII, Sol in Sagittarius.''

Many modern Thelemites believe that the essential form of the Scarlet Woman (as well as the Beast) can be fulfilled by any magician who so chooses.

==As the Great Mother==
Within the [[Gnostic Mass]], Babalon is mentioned in the [[Gnostic Creed]]:

:''And I believe in one Earth, the Mother of us all, and in one Womb wherein all men are begotten, and wherein they shall rest, Mystery of Mystery, in Her name BABALON.''

Babalon is identified with [[Binah]] on the [[Tree of Life]], the sphere that represents the Great Sea and the mother-goddesses [[Isis]], [[Bhavani]], and [[Muat]]. Moreover, she represents all physical mothers. Sabazius and Helena (1998) write:

:''BABALON, as the Great Mother, represents MATTER, a word which is derived from the Latin word for Mother. She is the physical mother of each of us, the one who provided us with material flesh to clothe our naked spirits; She is the Archetypal Mother, the Great Yoni, the Womb of all that lives through the flowing of Blood; She is the Great Sea, the Divine Blood itself which cloaks the World and which courses through our veins; and She is Mother Earth, the Womb of All Life that we know.''

==Babalon in the Book of Lies==
The 49th chapter of Crowley's ''Book of Lies'', called "Waratah-Blossoms", is dedicated to Babalon:

Seven are the veils of the dancing-girl in the harem
of [[IT]].
Seven are the names, and seven are the lamps beside
Her bed.
Seven eunuchs guard Her with drawn swords; No
Man may come nigh unto Her.
In Her wine-cup are seven streams of the blood of
the Seven Spirits of God.
Seven are the heads of [[To Mega Therion|THE BEAST]] whereon She
rideth.
The head of an Angel: the head of a Saint: the head
of a Poet: the head of An Adulterous Woman: the
head of a Man of Valour: the head of a [[Satyr]]:
and the head of a [[Lion-Serpent]].
Seven letters hath Her holiest name; and it is

::[[Image:Babalon_seal.gif|none]]

This is the Seal upon the Ring that is on the Fore-
finger of IT: and it is the Seal upon the Tombs of
them whom She hath slain.
Here is [[Chokmah|Wisdom]]. Let Him that hath [[Binah|Understanding]]
count the Number of Our Lady; for it is the
Number of a Woman; and Her Number is
[[156|An Hundred and Fifty and Six]].

===Crowley's Commentary===
On this chapter, Crowley writes:

:[[49]] is the square of [[7]]. 7 is the passive and feminine number. The chapter should be read in connection with Chapter [[31]] for IT now reappears. The chapter heading, the Waratah, is a voluptuous scarlet flower, common in Australia, and this connects the chapter with Chapters 28 and 29; but this is only an allusion, for the subject of the chapter is OUR LADY BABALON, who is conceived as the feminine counterpart of IT. This does not agree very well with the common or orthodox theogony of Chapter [[11]]; but it is to be explained by the dithyrambic nature of the chapter. In paragraph 3 NO MAN is of course [[NEMO]], the [[Master of the Temple]], [[Liber 418]] will explain most of the allusions in this chapter. In paragraphs 5 and 6 the author frankly identifies himself with the [[To Mega Therion|BEAST]] referred to in the book, and in the Apocalypse, and in [[The Book of the Law|LIBER LEGIS]]. In paragraph 6 the word "angel" may refer to his mission, and the word "[[lion-serpent]]" to the sigil of his ascending decan. ([[Path of Teth|Teth]] = [[Snake]] = [[spermatozoon]] and [[Leo]] in the [[Zodiac]], which like Teth itself has the snake-form. theta first written {Sun} = [[Lingam-Yoni]] and [[Sol]].) Paragraph 7 explains the theological difficulty referred to above. There is only one symbol, but this symbol has many names: of those names BABALON is the holiest. It is the name referred to in [[Liber Legis]], 1, 22. It will be noticed that the figure, or [[sigil]], of BABALON is a [[seal]] upon a ring, and this ring is upon the forefinger of IT. This identifies further the symbol with itself. It is...said to be the seal upon the tombs of them that she hath slain, that is, of the Masters of the Temple."

==The Scarlet Woman in the Book of the Law==
From Chapter I:
:15. Now ye shall know that the chosen priest & apostle of infinite space is the prince-priest the Beast; and in his woman called the Scarlet Woman is all power given. They shall gather my children into their fold: they shall bring the glory of the stars into the hearts of men. 
:16. For he is ever a sun, and she a moon. But to him is the winged secret flame, and to her the stooping starlight. 
:—AL I:15-16

From Chapter III:
:43. Let the Scarlet Woman beware! If pity and compassion and tenderness visit her heart; if she leave my work to toy with old sweetnesses; then shall my vengeance be known. I will slay me her child: I will alienate her heart: I will cast her out from men; as a shrinking and despised harlot shall she crawl through dusk wet streets, and die cold and an-hungered. 
:44. But let her raise herself with pride! Let her follow me in my way! Let her work the work of wickedness! Let her kill her heart! Let her be loud and adulterous! Let her be covered with jewels, and rich garments, and let her be shameless before all men! 
:45. Then will I lift her to pinnacles of power: then will I breed from her a child mightier than all the kings of the earth. I will fill her with joy: with my force shall she see & strike at the worship of Nu: she shall achieve Hadit. 
:—AL III:43-45

==Biblical origins==
Principally, the godform of Babalon seems to be derived from a scene in the [[Book of Revelations|Revelations]], a source of much inspiration in Crowley's cosmology. In "Revelations", we find this passage:

:''So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.'' :— Revelations 17:3-6

The text goes on to identify her as the female complement of the [[To Mega Therion|Beast]], an image also transported into [[Thelema]].

==Etymology==
The name '''Babalon''' may derive from several sources. Firstly, there is the obvious resemblance to [[Babylon]]. Babylon was a major city in [[Mesopotamia]], part of the [[Sumerian]] culture. Coincidentally, the [[Sumerian]] deity [[Ishtar]] bears an uncanny resemblance to the Crowleyan Babalon. Babylon itself is a city that is referred to in several places in the Bible, usually as an image of a once-glorious paradise that has fallen into ruin, a warning against the evils of decadence:

:''And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.'' —Revelations 18:1-5

A second possibility is from the [[Enochian]] word ''BABALOND'', which is translated ''a harlot''. This is most probable, given that ''The Vision and the Voice'' was obtained by Crowley through skrying, after he had conducted invocations using the [[Enochian]] system of magick.

Crowley probably chose the spelling of ''Babalon'' for its Qabalistic significance. By replacing the letter 'y' with an 'a', the word 'AL' appears in the center. The whole then naturally breaks into ''Bab-al-on''. 'Bab' is Arabic for a door, or gate. 'AL' is the Key of [[Liber Legis]], and is also a Qabalistic title of God, meaning 'The One' in Hebrew. 'On' is the name of the [[Egyptian]] city that the Greeks called [[Heliopolis]], the [[City of the Pyramids]]. By [[gematria]], Babalon sums to 156, which is the number of squares on each of the elemental Enochian tablets of Dee and Kelly. These tablets are themselves identified with the City of the Pyramids, with each square being the base of a pyramid.

==See also==

*The [[Babalon Working]] of [[Jack Parsons]]
*The [[Gnostic Creed]]
*[[Binah]]
*[[Barbelo]]

==Links of interest==

*''[http://mysteria.com/liber/L_418.txt The Vision and the Voice]''—especially Aethyrs 15, 12, 3, and 2.
*[http://www.hermetic.com/wisdom/lib49.html The Book of Babalon (Liber 49)] by Jack Parsons
*[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber Cheth vel Vallvm Abiegni]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/aba/chap7.html Chapter VII: The Formula of the Holy Graal] in ''Book 4.''
*[http://babalon.net/ Babalon.net]. Great resource on Jack Parsons and his relationship with Babalon.
*[http://hermetic.com/dionysos/art2.htm]. A sermon on Babalon, as interpreted through the second article of the [[Gnostic Creed]].

==References==
*Crowley, Aleister. (1998). ''The Vision & the Voice : the Equinox, IV(2).'' York Beach, Me. : Samuel Weiser.
*___. (1997). ''The Book of the Law [Liber AL vel Legis].'' York Beach, Me. : S. Weiser.
*___. (1996). ''Commentaries on the Holy Books and Other Papers : the Equinox,IV(1).'' York Beach, Me. : S. Weiser.
*___. (1981). ''The Book of Thoth.'' New York, S. Weiser.
*___. (1995). ''The Book of Lies.'' York Beach, Me. : S. Weiser.
*''The Bible'', King James Version.
*Sabazius & Helena. (1998). ''[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/creed_egc.htm The Creed of the Gnostic Catholic Church: an Examination].''

[[Category:Thelema]]
[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Godforms]]
[[Category:Thelemic terms]]

Esoteric Organizations

2009-07-30T17:15:28Z

Paradoxosalpha: dropped OTO from Typhonian

*[[Ordo Templi Orientis]]
*[[Typhonian Order]]
* [[Society Ordo Templi Orientis]] (non-O.T.O. group)
*[[A.'.A.'.]]
*[[Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn|The Golden Dawn]]
*[[Builders of the Adytum]]
*[[Fraternitas L.V.X. Occulta]]
*[[College of Thelema (based in Southern California)]]
*[[Temple of Thelema]]
*[[College of Thelema of Northern California]]
*[[Temple of the Silver Star]]

*[[Freemasonry]]
*[[Knights Templar]]
*[[Abbey of Thelema]]
*[[Ancient Rosae Crucis]]

*[[Fraternitas Rosae Crucis]]
*[[Theosophical Society]]
*[[Rosicrucians]]
*[[Hermetic Brotherhood of Light]]
*[[Order of the Eastern Star]]

*[[Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia]]
*[[Martinism]]

==See Also==
*[[A Brief Report About Thelema In Czech (and Slovak) Republic]]
*[[Esotericism]]

Aum. Ha. Oasis

2009-07-24T01:02:46Z

Paradoxosalpha: added date of Oasis charter

Aum. Ha. Oasis is the local body of [[O.T.O.]] in Chicago, Illinois. It was first chartered in 1993 as Aum. Ha. Encampment, and it became an Oasis in 2006. (Previous O.T.O. bodies in Chicago included AHA Camp, Perdurabo Camp, and Collegium 93 Camp.)

The Oasis is currently (July 2009) under the longstanding administration of its third Most Mysterious Master, Frater Upowat. It provides a full range of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica|E.G.C.]] services with both public and private [[Gnostic Mass]] each month, and ongoing initiations through the Third Degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis#initiation|Mysteria Mystica Maxima]].

The Current is the journal of the Oasis, presently on sale at five locations in the Chicago area. Other Oasis projects include the production of ritual video, regular incense-crafting workshops, the Javacrucians discussion group, and a continuing Enochian Chess club.

==External Links==
*[http://www.aumha-oto.org/ Aum. Ha. Oasis]

Local bodies

2009-07-24T00:58:50Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* List of O.T.O. bodies in the United States of America */ Bubastis Camp-cum-Oasis

==List of O.T.O. bodies in the United States of America==

*418 Lodge (Sacramento, California)
*93 Lodge (Costa Mesa, California)
*Ad Astra Oasis (Denver, Colorado)
*[[Aum. Ha. Oasis]] (Chicago, Illinois)
*Black Sun Oasis (Akron, Ohio)
*Blazing Star Oasis (Berkeley, California)
*Blue Equinox Oasis (Royal Oak, Michigan)
*Blue Horizon Oasis (Glendale, California)
**Merged into Star Sapphire Lodge, 2009
*[[Bubastis Oasis]] (Carollton, Texas)
*Camp of the Golden Lotus (Mission Viejo, California)
*Coph Nia Lodge (Eugene, Oregon)
*Dove and Serpent Oasis (Atlanta, Georgia)
*Heru-Behetut Oasis (Kansas City, Kansas)
*Heru-Ra-Ha Lodge (Newport Beach, California)
*Hoor-Paar-Kraat Oasis (Ogden, Utah)
*Horizon Oasis (Seattle, Washington)
*Horus Oasis (Salt Lake City, Utah)
*Knights Templar Oasis (Salem, Massachussets)
*L.V.X. Oasis (Los Angeles, California)
**Merged into Star Sapphire Lodge, 2009
*Lapis Lazuli Camp (Phoenix, Arizona)
*Laughing Serpent Camp (Bayonne, New Jersey)
*Leaping Laughter Lodge (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
*Mons Abiegnus Oasis (Mons Anselmo, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Nu Aeon Camp (Land O'Lakes, Florida)
*Onnophris Oasis (Indianapolis, Indiana)
*Pyramid Lodge (Buffalo, New York)
*RPSTOVAL Camp (Ashland, Oregon)
*Scarlet Woman Lodge (Austin, Texas)
*Sekhet-Bast-Ra Oasis (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
*[[Sekhet-Maat Lodge]] (Portland, Oregon)
*Serpentine Splendour Lodge (Las Vegas, Nevada)
*Seven Spirits Camp (Tucson, Arizona)
*Sirius Camp (Oakland, California)
*Sol Invictus Camp (Fayetteville, Arkansas)
*Star Sapphire Lodge (Los Angeles, California)
*Starry Arch Camp (St. Louis, Missouri)
*Swirling Star Oasis (Miami, Florida)
*Tahuti Lodge (New York, New York)
*Thelema Lodge (Berkeley, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Thelesis Lodge (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
*Therion-Babalon Oasis (Berkeley, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Vortex Camp (Tacoma, Washington)
*William Blake Oasis (Baltimore, Maryland)
*Xanadu Oasis (Reading, Pennsylvania)

==References==
*US Grand Lodge, O.T.O. "US Local Bodies." http://www.oto-usa.org/bodies.html Retrieved 9/19/2005.

Typhonian Order

2009-07-23T16:40:18Z

Paradoxosalpha: tightened up prose

The '''Typhonian Order''', formerly "Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis," is an [[occult]] society in the United Kingdom interested in [[magick]] and [[Typhon|Typhonian]] concepts.

It was founded by [[Kenneth Grant]], who disputed the claim of heritage the "Caliphate" (i.e. [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]) made concerning the original occult order that [[Aleister Crowley]] had made famous.

The number of members has so far never exceeded a few dozen and there is very little activity outside the UK, but the Typhonian Order is still among the most well-known magical orders, apparently through the books of its founder. In particular, it has influenced [[Setianism]] and [[Dragon Rouge]] and was instrumental in the creation of the [[Maat Magick]] movement.

While the group still promotes the Law of [[Thelema]], it appears to focus more on exploration of alien consciousnesses such as [[extraterrestrial life]] and [[demon|demons]], and on the darker aspects of metaphysics. The organization has shifted from a formal hierarchy to a loose hierarchical framework.

==References==
*Wikipedia (2005). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhonian_Ordo_Templi_Orientis Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis]. Retrieved 9 March 2005. Consulted for changes 23 July 2009.

==External Links==

*[http://user.cyberlink.ch/~koenig/k_grant.htm Kenneth Grant and the Typhonian O.T.O.] The view of a skeptical outsider

[[Category:Organizations]]

Typhonian Order

2009-07-23T16:12:06Z

Paradoxosalpha: shift bolding

The '''Typhonian Order''', formerly "Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis," is an [[occult]] society in the [[United Kingdom]] interested in [[magick]] and [[Typhon|typhonian]] concepts.

It was founded by [[Kenneth Grant]], who disputed the claim of heritage the "Caliphate" (i.e. [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]) made concerning the original occult order that [[Aleister Crowley]] had made famous.

The number of members has so far never exceeded a few dozen and there is very little activity outside the UK, but the Typhonian Order is still among the most well-known magical orders, apparently through the books of its founder. In particular, it has influenced [[Setianism]] and [[Dragon Rouge]] and was instrumental in the creation of the [[Maat Magick]] movement.

While the group still promotes the Law of [[Thelema]], it appears to focus more on exploration of foreign intelligence such as [[extraterrestrial life]] and [[demon|demons]], and on the darker aspects of metaphysical existence. The organization has shifted from a formal hierarchy to a loose hierarchical framework.

==References==
*Wikipedia (2005). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhonian_Ordo_Templi_Orientis Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis]. Retrieved 9 March 2005. Consulted for changes 23 July 2009.

==External Links==

*[http://user.cyberlink.ch/~koenig/k_grant.htm Kenneth Grant and the Typhonian O.T.O.] The view of a skeptical outsider

[[Category:Organizations]]

Gerald Gardner

2009-07-23T16:09:07Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* External Links */

{{stub}}
'''Gerald Brosseau Gardner''' (June 13, 1884 - February 13, 1964) was a British civil servant, amateur anthropologist, writer, and [[occultist]] who published some of the definitive texts for [[Wicca]], which he was instrumental in founding.

== Gardner & Crowley ==
[[Aleister Crowley]] initiated Gerald Gardner into the [[O.T.O.]] in 1946. [http://www.religioustolerance.org/wicrede.htm]

== See Also ==
* [[Wicca]]

== External Links ==
* [http://www.geraldgardner.com/ Gerald Gardner]
* [http://www.scarletwoman.org/scarletletter/v1n4/v1n4_gardner.html The Gardner Letter] - correspondence between Gardner and Louis Wilkinson as Crowley's executor

== Resources ==
* [http://www.religioustolerance.org/wicrede.htm The Wiccan Rede] at ReligiousTolerance.org
* Wikipedia (2005). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gerald_Gardner Gerald Gardner]. Retrieved August 9, 2005.

[[Category:Magicians]]
[[Category:Mystics]]
[[Category:Occultists]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Writers]]

Ordo Templi Orientis

2009-07-23T16:08:08Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy */ added Gardner, Solar Lodge

'''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.) can be translated as ''Order of Oriental Templars,'' or ''Order of the Temple of the East.'' It is a secret, fraternal organization similar to that of [[Freemasonry]], with a series of graded [[Initiation|initations]]. For its teachings and principles of organization, it has accepted the Law of [[Thelema]], which is expressed as “Do what thou wilt.” Thelemites believe that this Law was established with the writing of [[the Book of the Law]] by [[Aleister Crowley]] in 1904 in Cairo, Egypt.
 

==Philosophy & Goals==

According to Crowley, O.T.O. is "the first of the great religious Societies to accept the Law." The rituals of O.T.O. have been entirely revised by Crowley and his successors in light of the Law of Thelema. Both within its private ceremonies and in the world at large, the Order seeks to promote the Law as the ultimate standard of human conduct and understanding.

O.T.O. was also designated as the Crowley estate, and maintains possession of Crowley's intellectual property and literary remains. As the custodian of these materials, the Order seeks to make them available to the public in definitive editions.

Even before accepting the Law, the Sovereign Sanctuary of the O.T.O. was a body that maintained a Supreme Secret, which is said to be of inestimable magical power. This secret still reposes in the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Ninth Degree, and its nature is indicated gradually by hints in the initiatory ceremonies of the Order.

In common with Freemasonry, the [[Theosophical Society]], and many other esoteric bodies, O.T.O. espouses an ethic of [[Universal Brotherhood]].

Of the entire system of O.T.O., Crowley wrote in ''Confessions:''

:It offers a rational basis for universal brotherhood and for universal religion. It puts forward a scientific statement which is a summary of all that is at present known about the universe by means of a simple, yet sublime symbolism, artistically arranged. It also enables each man to discover for himself his personal destiny, indicates the moral and intellectual qualities which he requires in order to fulfil it freely, and finally puts in his hands an unimaginably powerful weapon which he may use to develop in himself every faculty which he may need in his work.

The mission of O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge, which can largely be applied to the Order as a whole:

:Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A. is the U.S. Grand Lodge (National Section) of Ordo Templi Orientis, a hierarchical, religious membership organization. Our mission is to effect and promote the doctrines and practices of the philosophical and religious system known as Thelema, with particular emphasis on cultivating the ideals of individual liberty, self-discipline, self-knowledge, and universal brotherhood. To this end, we conduct sacramental and initiatory rites, offer guidance and instruction to our members, organize social events, and engage in educational and community service activities at locations throughout the United States.

==Activities==

O.T.O. has two core areas of ritual activity: initiation into the [[Mystery|Mysteries]], and the celebration of Liber XV, the [[The Gnostic Mass|Gnostic Mass]]. In addition, the Order organizes lectures, classes, social events, theatrical productions and artistic exhibitions, and publishes books, journals, and newsletters.

===Initiation===

Within O.T.O., the process of initiation is unlike that of many college fraternities or the military, the goal of which is to bond the individual to the group by means of ego-collapse, often via methods of pain, exhaustion, and degredation. Within O.T.O., the rituals are designed to be challenging, but in a way that honors the candidate. If bonding does occur, it does so through a conscious and willed effort on the part of the initiate. The ultimate goal of initiation in O.T.O. is "to instruct the individual by allegory and symbol in the profound mysteries of Nature, and thereby to assist each to discover his or her own true Identity."[http://oto-usa.org/init.html]

O.T.O. uses a graded system, similar to that of Freemasonry. There are thirteen numbered degrees and twelve un-numbered. They are divided into three grades or "triads": the Hermit, the Lover, and the Man of Earth. The entire system is as follows:

*'''The Man of Earth Triad'''
**0°—Minerval
**I°—Man & Brother / Woman & Sister
**II°—Magician
**III°—Master Magician
**IV°—Perfect Magician & companion of the Holy Royal Arch of Enoch
**P.I.—Perfect Initiate, or Prince of Jerusalem

*'''Outside all Triads'''
**Knight of the East & West

*'''The Lover Triad'''
**V°—
***Sovereign Prince Rose-Croix, and Knight of the Pelican & Eagle
***Knight of the Red Eagle, and Member of the Senate of Knight Hermetic Philosophers
**VI°—
***Illustrious Knight (Templar) of the Order of Kadosch, and Companion of the Holy Graal
***Grand Inquisitor Commander, and Member of the Grand Tribunal
***Prince of the Royal Secret
**VII°—
***Theoreticus, and Very Illustrious Sovereign Grand Inspector General
***Magus of Light, and Bishop of Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica
***Grandmaster of Light, and Inspector of Rites & Degrees

*'''The Hermit Triad'''
**VIII°—
***Perfect Pontiff of the Illuminati
***Epopt of the Illuminati
**IX°—Initiate of the Sanctuary of the Gnosis
**X°—Rex Summus Sanctissimus
**XI°—Initiate of the Eleventh Degree (This degree is technical, and has no relation to the general plan of the Order)
**XII°—Frater Superior, [[Caliph]], and Outer Head of the Order

===The Gnostic Catholic Church===

The '''[[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]]''', or Gnostic Catholic Church, is the ecclesiastical arm of O.T.O. Its cental activity is the celebration of Liber XV, [[the Gnostic Mass]]. In recent years, other rites have been written and approved for use within the church. These include Baptism, Confirmation (into the Laity), and Ordination (for Deacons, Priests & Priestesses, and Bishops), and Last Rites. There are also several "unofficial" rituals that are celebrated within the context of E.G.C., including Weddings, Visitation and Administration of the Virtues to the Sick, [[Exorcism]], and Rites for [[Life]] and [[Greater Feast]]s. Clergy in local sanctuaries can also choose to celebrate original rituals, such as "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/liturgy93.htm Liturgy 93]" or the "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/xquart.htm Feasts of the Cross-Quarters]."

See also: [[E.G.C. Ceremonies]]

====Membership in E.G.C.====

#'''The Clergy'''
#*'''The Father/Mother of the Church''' (The Patriarch or Matriarch)
#*'''The Primate''' (or Presiding Bishop, and is the National Grand Master General)
#*'''Bishops''' (The Episcopate)
#*'''Priests & Priestesses''' (The Priesthood)
#*'''Deacons''' (The Diaconate)
#*'''Novices''' (The Novitiate)
#'''Lay members''' (The Laity)
#'''Bishops in Amity''' (Advisory membership)

===Cultural Events===

Other than initiations and ecclesiastical work, there are many activities that O.T.O. members can engage in. The U.S. Grand Lodge has hosted national conferences since 2000. On the local level, bodies host a wide range of events, including ritual theatre, classes & workshops, original rituals, publication of journals and books, creation of a web presence, study groups, and informal social gatherings. Some lodges have hosted smaller conferences on topics such as business aspects of O.T.O., women in Thelema, and other subjects of interest.

==Structure==

The Structure of O.T.O. is outlined in several historical documents, principally the ''Constitution of O.T.O.'' (1906, revised 1917), the ''Constitution of M.'.M.'.M.'.'' (1913), and ''Liber 194: An Intimation With Reference to the Constitution of the Order'' (1919).

The governing bodies of O.T.O. include:

#'''International Headquarters'''
#*Presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' XII° (OHO—also known as Frater Superior)
#*'''Supreme Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' of the IX°
#*The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' of the VIII°
#'''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges'''
#*Presided over by a '''National Grand Master''' X°
#*'''Executive Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Supreme Grand Council'''
#*The '''Grand Tribunal''' of the VI°
#*The '''Electoral College '''

===International===

1. '''International Headquarters''' (IHQ) is the body that governs O.T.O. worldwide. IHQ is presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' (OHO—also known as Frater Superior), who possesses the XII°. Since the time of [[Grady McMurtry]], the office of Outer Head of the Order has been associated with the title of [[Caliph]].

2. IHQ is administered by the International '''Supreme Council''', which consists of the Outer Head of the Order, the Secretary General, and the Treasurer General.

3. The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' consists of members who have reached the IX°. Their prime duty is to study and practice the theurgy and thaumaturgy of the degree, consisting of the Supreme Secret of the Order. The Sovereign Sanctuary is not technically a governing body, however, as a collective, it has the authority to:
*ratify and overturn the rulings of the Areopagus
*act as representitives of the OHO and National Grand Masters when need arises
*fill the office of Revolutionary
*vote within the Secret Areopagus
*have some powers over the installation and removal of the OHO and National Grand Masters

4. The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' is a philosophical Governing Body comprised of those who have reached the VIII°. It has the authority to reverse the decisions of the Grand Tribunal. It’s duties are:
*compose and resolve all conflicts between any of the governing bodies of the Order
*Draft and approve all Amendments to the Bylaws of the Order
*Resolve disputes between the various Guilds

5. In addition to the above-listed bodies, IHQ includes a number of administrative offices including:
*Revolutionaries (2)
*International Initiation Secretary
*EGC Secretary
*Quartermasters for Asia and Europe
*Rights & Permissions for the Estate of Aleister Crowley
*International Archivist

The International Headquarters of O.T.O. is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious corporation under the name '''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Supreme Council.

===National===

1. International Headquarters has the power to charter '''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges''', with their own Officers and Administrative and Governing Bodies, in countries that have developed an organization large enough to support independent operations. Each Grand Lodge is presided over by a '''National Grand Master General''', who possesses the Tenth Degree (X°).

2. A Grand Lodge is administered by an '''Executive Council''', or '''Executive,''' which consists of the National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General.

3. The '''Supreme Grand Council''' consists of nine members of the VII° appointed by the National Grand Master General. It is charged with:
*the government of the whole of the Lovers Grade
*Hearing and deciding appeals of the decisions of the Electoral College
*Hearing reports of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General VII° as to the affairs of the Initiate members of the Lovers Grade

The National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General are ''ex officio'' members of the Supreme Grand Council, and consititute its Executive Committee.

4. The '''Grand Tribunal''' is composed of members of the degree of Grand Inquisitor Commander (a sub-degree of the VI°). Their primary duty is to hear and arbitrate disputes and complains not resolved at the level of Chapters and Lodges. They may also grant exemption from any consequences within O.T.O. for pursuing a civil case. They may also rule in cases of abuse of authority and membership privileges. The Grand Tribunal is technically a Governing Body at the National level, due to the degree of its members. However, even members of higher grades are subject to the decisions of the Grand Tribunal.

5. The '''Electoral College''' consists of eleven members of the V° appointed by the National Grand Master General. Its primary duty is to oversee the affairs of the Man of Earth Grade. It has the authority to:
*appoint and remove Camp, Oasis, and Lodge Masters
*authorize invitations for initiate members to take the V° and enter the Lover Grade
*give full hearings to reports from initiate members of the degree of Sovereign Grand Inspector General VII° as to the condition of affairs of the members of the Man of Earth Triad

====Current Grand Lodges====

The '''U.S. Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United States of America. The U.S. National Grand Master General is Fr. Sabazius X°, who was appointed on 30 March 1996. The U.S. Grand Lodge is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious organization named '''Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A.''' (O.T.O. U.S.A.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Executive.

The '''UK Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United Kingdom. The U.K. National Grand Master General is Fr. Hyperion X°, who was appointed on 1 May 2005 (93 years after the last Grand Master for the UK, Aleister Crowley, was elevated to that office).

The '''Australia Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in Australia. The Australia National Grand Master General is Fr. Shiva X°, who was appointed on 15 April, 2006.

===O.T.O. Bodies===

At the Man of Earth level, there are three levels of Local Body, which are Camps, Oases, and Lodges.

1. '''Camps''' tend to be the smallest and are not required to perform intiations. They are encouraged to celebrate the Gnostic Mass.

2. '''Oases''' are the next largest, and should be able to initiate through the III°.

3. '''Lodges''' are the largest local body within the Man of Earth Grade, and are expected to celebrate the Gnostic Mass on a regular basis, work towards establishing a permenant temple, and have the ability to initiate through IV°/P.I.

'''Chapters of Rose Croix''' are bodies established by members of the Lover Grade. A Chapter is headed by a Most Wise Sovereign and a High Priestess. They are generally charged with arranging social activities, such as plays, banquets, and dances. They also work to promote harmony among the members by tact and friendliness.

'''Guilds''' are groups recognized by IHQ that are designed to promote a profession, trade, science or craft. Subject to approval by the Areopagus, they make their own regulations and coordinate their own efforts. There are currently three Guilds recognized by the Areopagus: the Psychology Guild, the Translators' Guild, and the Information Technology Guild.

The term '''Sanctuary''' is sometimes used to indicate a group of initiates organized for E.G.C. activities. This designation currently reflects no formal chartering process or official standing within the Order.

==History==

The founding of Ordo Templi Orientis began with a wealthy paper chemist, [[Carl Kellner]] (1851-1905). A student of the occult and familiar with several modern secret organizations, he had come to believe that he had discovered a “Key” to the symbolism of Freemasonry and to the Mysteries of Nature itself. He then aspired to create an ''[[Academia Masonica]]'' that would unifiy the various systems of Masonry. Kellner, along with an associate, [[Theodor Reuss]] (1855-1923), decided to call it the ''Oriental Templar Order.'' In 1902, Reuss, along with Franz Hartmann and Henry Klein, purchased the right to perform the Scottish, Memphis and Mizraim rites of Freemasonry, the authority of which was confirmed in 1904 and again in 1905. These rites, along with the Swedenborgian Rite, formed the core of the newly established Order. When Kellner died in 1905, Reuss assumed full control, becoming the first Outer Head of the Order.

Ruess met Aleister Crowley and in 1910 admitted him to the three degrees of O.T.O. Only two years later Crowley was placed in charge of Great Britain and Ireland, and advanced to the X°. The appointment included the operation of the Masonic degrees of O.T.O., which were called ''Mysteria Mystica Maxima''. Within the year Crowley had written the Manifesto of the M.'.M.'.M.'. which described the basic ten-degree system—which was still principally Masonic—with Kellner’s three degree ''Academia Masonica'' forming the VII°, VIII° and IX°.

In 1913, Crowley composed the Gnostic Mass while in Moscow, which he described as being the Order’s “central ceremony of its public and private celebration.” In 1914, soon after World War I broke out, he moved to America. It was around this time that he decided to integrate Thelema into the O.T.O. system, and in 1915 had revised rituals prepared for use in his M.'.M.'.M.'.. He revised them again in 1918, and in so doing removed the ritual's ties to Masonry.

In 1921, Reuss issued a charter to [[Charles Stansfeld Jones]] as X° for the U.S. The very next year, Crowley proclaimed himself as Outer Head of the Order of O.T.O. based on the claim that Reuss (who might have suffered a stroke) had become incapable of running the Order. Reuss died in 1923.

In 1933, Agape Lodge #2 was formed in Los Angeles, California under the leadership of [[Wilfred Talbot Smith]] (1885-1957). He and [[Regina Kahl]] celebrated the first public performance of the Gnostic Mass. Smith was advanced to the X° for the U.S. in 1935. Soon after, the Lodge moved to Pasadena where it was run by [[Jack Parsons]] (1914-1952), a founder of the JPL.

During WWII, the European branches of O.T.O. were either destroyed or driven underground. By the end of the war, the only surviving O.T.O. body was Agapé Lodge, although there were various initiates in different countries. Very few initiations were being performed. At this time, [[Karl Germer]], who had been Crowley’s representitive in Germany, came over to America after being released from Nazi confinement. In 1942, Crowley appointed him as his successor as OHO.

In that same year, Crowley personally conferred the IX° to [[Grady McMurtry]] (1918-1985), a member of Agapé Lodge. It was then that he assumed his new Magical Name, ''Hymenaeus Alpha''. McMurtry received several letters from Crowley in 1944 stating his desire to have McMurtry assume the role of [[Caliph]] and to be in line for succession to OHO. In 1946, McMurtry was entrusted with documents of emergency authorization to operate O.T.O. within California (the location of the only operational Lodge), along with the appointment of being Crowley’s personal representitive within the U.S., second only to Germer.

Crowley died on December 1, 1947 and Karl Germer became OHO. He served from 1947 until his death in 1962. During his time as OHO, O.T.O. activity came to a standstill, with no new initiations being performed. An O.T.O. camp was chartered in England to [[Kenneth Grant]], but he was expelled in 1955 for modifying the initiation rituals and claiming that the body was under joint leadership with another organization, ''[[Fraternitas Saturni]].''

Germer died in 1962 without himself naming a successor. In 1969, Grady McMurtry invoked his emergency authorization from Crowley and assumed the title of [[Caliph]], which Crowley had granted him. He began performing intiations in 1970. Growth was very slow for the first few years, although McMurtry did pick up on the publishing front, such as issuing Crowely’s ''[[Tarot|Thoth Tarot]]'' deck. Grady McMurtry died in 1985.

McMurtry requested that members of the Sovereign Sanctuary elect the next OHO, which they did in 1985. Frater [[Hymenaeus Beta]] was elected to become the next OHO and he continues in that office today. In 1996, [[Sabazius]] X° was appointed as National Grand Master General for the U.S. Grand Lodge. Since McMurtry's time, O.T.O. has greatly expanded its publishing activities, initiated thousands of men and women into its ranks, and become an international organization with groups in dozens of countries around the world.

==Legalities==

*1976: the Superior Court in Calaveras County, California recognizes Grady McMurtry as the authorized representative of O.T.O.
*1979: O.T.O. is incorporated under the laws of the State of California
*1982: The corporation attains Federal Tax exemption as a religious entity under IRS Code 501(c)3
*1985: in the 9th Federal District Court in San Francisco, McMurtry is found to be the legitimate head of O.T.O. within the United States, and that O.T.O. under McMurtry is the continuation of the O.T.O. of Aleister Crowley, and the exclusive owner of the names, trademarks, copyrights and other assets of O.T.O. This decision is appealed and upheld.
*1996: The existing corporation reorganizes as International Headquarters of O.T.O. and a new corporation is founded for U.S. Grand Lodge.
*2002: The United Kingdom High Court finds that O.T.O. is the sole owner of the copyrights for all of the works of Aleister Crowley.

==Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy==

Divergent claims to authority are a recurrent feature of the history of Ordo Templi Orientis. Over the years, several individuals and groups of various credibility have claimed the title of OHO or to be the ‘true’ O.T.O.

*'''[[Gerald Gardner]]''' claimed in correspondence with the executors of the Crowley estate, "Alister (sic) gave me a charter making me head of the O.T.O. in Europe." Gardner had been admitted to the Order by Crowley, and chartered at one time to organize a "Camp of Minervals." There is no evidence that Gardner took any further action to press his larger claim.

*'''[[Hermann Metzger]]''', who had been a member of the early Swiss O.T.O. under Reuss, made the claim soon after Germer’s death in 1962. Supposedly there had been an election there which appointed him OHO. However, it was later shown that Germer had not considered Metzger a regularized member of O.T.O. as it had developed under Crowley. No one recognized his claim outside of his own group. Metzger died in 1990.

*'''[[Kenneth Grant]]''', who had been expelled from O.T.O. in 1955, also made the claim to OHO after Germer’s passing. Grant did not initially provide any factual basis or evidence for his claim except to say he had a correspondence with Crowley, that Germer had never actually been OHO, and that McMurtry was not the legitimate OHO. He called his organization ''Ordo Templi Orientis;'' and others distinguished it as the [[Typhonian O.T.O.]]. Eventually his supporters produced a handwritten letter purporting to be Grant's authorization from Crowley, but this was later admitted to be a forgery. Grant's organization now calls itself the [[Typhonian Order]].

*'''[[Marcelo Ramos Motta]]''' tried to assume control of the Order under the name "[[Society Ordo Templi Orientis]]." His claim was based on his story that Germer’s wife, Sasha, told him that Karl’s last words stated that Motta was “the follower.” Although Motta had been an [[A.'.A.'.]] student under Germer, he had never actually been initiated into O.T.O. He also sued for ownership of Crowley’s copyrights, which were denied to him by the U.S. District Court in Maine. Motta died in 1987, although various small groups calling themselves S.O.T.O. continue to exist.

Other groups that have made use of the O.T.O. name or purported to offer genuine initiation into O.T.O. include:

*The '''[[Solar Lodge]]''', organized by unauthorized former members of Agape Lodge in California in the 1960s.

*'''Albion O.T.O.''', located in London, England, claiming to unify all the different “branches” of O.T.O. [http://www.uk-oto.org/oto_main.htm]

*The '''Parzival XI° O.T.O. Foundation''', claiming to support and legitimize Motta’s Society O.T.O. [http://members.ozemail.com.au/~realoto/pf.html]

*'''Ur-O.T.O.''', whose main goals are to “manifest A.M.I.C.I.T.I.A. (Amity, Magia, Inspiration, Companionship, Inclusion, Truth, Individuality, Agape) and to make this a living power in the Life of all Beings.” [http://members.aol.com/UROTO/index.html]

==Links of Interest==

*[http://oto-usa.org/ O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/main.html The Invisible Basilica of Sabazius]—site of the current Grand Master of U.S. Grand Lodge
*[http://www.ashami.com/eidolons/Main_Page Eidolons of Ash]—includes OTO-related original essays and seminal texts

Typhonian Order

2009-07-23T15:54:17Z

Paradoxosalpha: comma

The Typhonian Order, formerly '''Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis''', is an [[occult]] society in the [[United Kingdom]] interested in [[magick]] and [[Typhon|typhonian]] concepts.

It was founded by [[Kenneth Grant]], who disputed the claim of heritage the "Caliphate" (i.e. [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]) made concerning the original occult order that [[Aleister Crowley]] had made famous.

The number of members has so far never exceeded a few dozen and there is very little activity outside the UK, but the Typhonian Order is still among the most well-known magical orders, apparently through the books of its founder. In particular, it has influenced [[Setianism]] and [[Dragon Rouge]] and was instrumental in the creation of the [[Maat Magick]] movement.

While the group still promotes the Law of [[Thelema]], it appears to focus more on exploration of foreign intelligence such as [[extraterrestrial life]] and [[demon|demons]], and on the darker aspects of metaphysical existence. The organization has shifted from a formal hierarchy to a loose hierarchical framework.

==References==
*Wikipedia (2005). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhonian_Ordo_Templi_Orientis Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis]. Retrieved 9 March 2005. Consulted for changes 23 July 2009.

==External Links==

*[http://user.cyberlink.ch/~koenig/k_grant.htm Kenneth Grant and the Typhonian O.T.O.] The view of a skeptical outsider

[[Category:Organizations]]

Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis

2009-07-23T15:53:34Z

Paradoxosalpha: Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis moved to Typhonian Order

#REDIRECT [[Typhonian Order]]

Typhonian Order

2009-07-23T15:53:18Z

Paradoxosalpha: updated to Typhonian Order; article still needs to be moved

The Typhonian Order, formerly '''Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis''' is an [[occult]] society in the [[United Kingdom]] interested in [[magick]] and [[Typhon|typhonian]] concepts.

It was founded by [[Kenneth Grant]], who disputed the claim of heritage the "Caliphate" (i.e. [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]) made concerning the original occult order that [[Aleister Crowley]] had made famous.

The number of members has so far never exceeded a few dozen and there is very little activity outside the UK, but the Typhonian Order is still among the most well-known magical orders, apparently through the books of its founder. In particular, it has influenced [[Setianism]] and [[Dragon Rouge]] and was instrumental in the creation of the [[Maat Magick]] movement.

While the group still promotes the Law of [[Thelema]], it appears to focus more on exploration of foreign intelligence such as [[extraterrestrial life]] and [[demon|demons]], and on the darker aspects of metaphysical existence. The organization has shifted from a formal hierarchy to a loose hierarchical framework.

==References==
*Wikipedia (2005). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhonian_Ordo_Templi_Orientis Typhonian Ordo Templi Orientis]. Retrieved 9 March 2005. Consulted for changes 23 July 2009.

==External Links==

*[http://user.cyberlink.ch/~koenig/k_grant.htm Kenneth Grant and the Typhonian O.T.O.] The view of a skeptical outsider

[[Category:Organizations]]

Ordo Templi Orientis

2009-07-23T15:48:14Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy */ updating status of Typhonian Order

'''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.) can be translated as ''Order of Oriental Templars,'' or ''Order of the Temple of the East.'' It is a secret, fraternal organization similar to that of [[Freemasonry]], with a series of graded [[Initiation|initations]]. For its teachings and principles of organization, it has accepted the Law of [[Thelema]], which is expressed as “Do what thou wilt.” Thelemites believe that this Law was established with the writing of [[the Book of the Law]] by [[Aleister Crowley]] in 1904 in Cairo, Egypt.
 

==Philosophy & Goals==

According to Crowley, O.T.O. is "the first of the great religious Societies to accept the Law." The rituals of O.T.O. have been entirely revised by Crowley and his successors in light of the Law of Thelema. Both within its private ceremonies and in the world at large, the Order seeks to promote the Law as the ultimate standard of human conduct and understanding.

O.T.O. was also designated as the Crowley estate, and maintains possession of Crowley's intellectual property and literary remains. As the custodian of these materials, the Order seeks to make them available to the public in definitive editions.

Even before accepting the Law, the Sovereign Sanctuary of the O.T.O. was a body that maintained a Supreme Secret, which is said to be of inestimable magical power. This secret still reposes in the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Ninth Degree, and its nature is indicated gradually by hints in the initiatory ceremonies of the Order.

In common with Freemasonry, the [[Theosophical Society]], and many other esoteric bodies, O.T.O. espouses an ethic of [[Universal Brotherhood]].

Of the entire system of O.T.O., Crowley wrote in ''Confessions:''

:It offers a rational basis for universal brotherhood and for universal religion. It puts forward a scientific statement which is a summary of all that is at present known about the universe by means of a simple, yet sublime symbolism, artistically arranged. It also enables each man to discover for himself his personal destiny, indicates the moral and intellectual qualities which he requires in order to fulfil it freely, and finally puts in his hands an unimaginably powerful weapon which he may use to develop in himself every faculty which he may need in his work.

The mission of O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge, which can largely be applied to the Order as a whole:

:Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A. is the U.S. Grand Lodge (National Section) of Ordo Templi Orientis, a hierarchical, religious membership organization. Our mission is to effect and promote the doctrines and practices of the philosophical and religious system known as Thelema, with particular emphasis on cultivating the ideals of individual liberty, self-discipline, self-knowledge, and universal brotherhood. To this end, we conduct sacramental and initiatory rites, offer guidance and instruction to our members, organize social events, and engage in educational and community service activities at locations throughout the United States.

==Activities==

O.T.O. has two core areas of ritual activity: initiation into the [[Mystery|Mysteries]], and the celebration of Liber XV, the [[The Gnostic Mass|Gnostic Mass]]. In addition, the Order organizes lectures, classes, social events, theatrical productions and artistic exhibitions, and publishes books, journals, and newsletters.

===Initiation===

Within O.T.O., the process of initiation is unlike that of many college fraternities or the military, the goal of which is to bond the individual to the group by means of ego-collapse, often via methods of pain, exhaustion, and degredation. Within O.T.O., the rituals are designed to be challenging, but in a way that honors the candidate. If bonding does occur, it does so through a conscious and willed effort on the part of the initiate. The ultimate goal of initiation in O.T.O. is "to instruct the individual by allegory and symbol in the profound mysteries of Nature, and thereby to assist each to discover his or her own true Identity."[http://oto-usa.org/init.html]

O.T.O. uses a graded system, similar to that of Freemasonry. There are thirteen numbered degrees and twelve un-numbered. They are divided into three grades or "triads": the Hermit, the Lover, and the Man of Earth. The entire system is as follows:

*'''The Man of Earth Triad'''
**0°—Minerval
**I°—Man & Brother / Woman & Sister
**II°—Magician
**III°—Master Magician
**IV°—Perfect Magician & companion of the Holy Royal Arch of Enoch
**P.I.—Perfect Initiate, or Prince of Jerusalem

*'''Outside all Triads'''
**Knight of the East & West

*'''The Lover Triad'''
**V°—
***Sovereign Prince Rose-Croix, and Knight of the Pelican & Eagle
***Knight of the Red Eagle, and Member of the Senate of Knight Hermetic Philosophers
**VI°—
***Illustrious Knight (Templar) of the Order of Kadosch, and Companion of the Holy Graal
***Grand Inquisitor Commander, and Member of the Grand Tribunal
***Prince of the Royal Secret
**VII°—
***Theoreticus, and Very Illustrious Sovereign Grand Inspector General
***Magus of Light, and Bishop of Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica
***Grandmaster of Light, and Inspector of Rites & Degrees

*'''The Hermit Triad'''
**VIII°—
***Perfect Pontiff of the Illuminati
***Epopt of the Illuminati
**IX°—Initiate of the Sanctuary of the Gnosis
**X°—Rex Summus Sanctissimus
**XI°—Initiate of the Eleventh Degree (This degree is technical, and has no relation to the general plan of the Order)
**XII°—Frater Superior, [[Caliph]], and Outer Head of the Order

===The Gnostic Catholic Church===

The '''[[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]]''', or Gnostic Catholic Church, is the ecclesiastical arm of O.T.O. Its cental activity is the celebration of Liber XV, [[the Gnostic Mass]]. In recent years, other rites have been written and approved for use within the church. These include Baptism, Confirmation (into the Laity), and Ordination (for Deacons, Priests & Priestesses, and Bishops), and Last Rites. There are also several "unofficial" rituals that are celebrated within the context of E.G.C., including Weddings, Visitation and Administration of the Virtues to the Sick, [[Exorcism]], and Rites for [[Life]] and [[Greater Feast]]s. Clergy in local sanctuaries can also choose to celebrate original rituals, such as "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/liturgy93.htm Liturgy 93]" or the "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/xquart.htm Feasts of the Cross-Quarters]."

See also: [[E.G.C. Ceremonies]]

====Membership in E.G.C.====

#'''The Clergy'''
#*'''The Father/Mother of the Church''' (The Patriarch or Matriarch)
#*'''The Primate''' (or Presiding Bishop, and is the National Grand Master General)
#*'''Bishops''' (The Episcopate)
#*'''Priests & Priestesses''' (The Priesthood)
#*'''Deacons''' (The Diaconate)
#*'''Novices''' (The Novitiate)
#'''Lay members''' (The Laity)
#'''Bishops in Amity''' (Advisory membership)

===Cultural Events===

Other than initiations and ecclesiastical work, there are many activities that O.T.O. members can engage in. The U.S. Grand Lodge has hosted national conferences since 2000. On the local level, bodies host a wide range of events, including ritual theatre, classes & workshops, original rituals, publication of journals and books, creation of a web presence, study groups, and informal social gatherings. Some lodges have hosted smaller conferences on topics such as business aspects of O.T.O., women in Thelema, and other subjects of interest.

==Structure==

The Structure of O.T.O. is outlined in several historical documents, principally the ''Constitution of O.T.O.'' (1906, revised 1917), the ''Constitution of M.'.M.'.M.'.'' (1913), and ''Liber 194: An Intimation With Reference to the Constitution of the Order'' (1919).

The governing bodies of O.T.O. include:

#'''International Headquarters'''
#*Presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' XII° (OHO—also known as Frater Superior)
#*'''Supreme Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' of the IX°
#*The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' of the VIII°
#'''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges'''
#*Presided over by a '''National Grand Master''' X°
#*'''Executive Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Supreme Grand Council'''
#*The '''Grand Tribunal''' of the VI°
#*The '''Electoral College '''

===International===

1. '''International Headquarters''' (IHQ) is the body that governs O.T.O. worldwide. IHQ is presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' (OHO—also known as Frater Superior), who possesses the XII°. Since the time of [[Grady McMurtry]], the office of Outer Head of the Order has been associated with the title of [[Caliph]].

2. IHQ is administered by the International '''Supreme Council''', which consists of the Outer Head of the Order, the Secretary General, and the Treasurer General.

3. The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' consists of members who have reached the IX°. Their prime duty is to study and practice the theurgy and thaumaturgy of the degree, consisting of the Supreme Secret of the Order. The Sovereign Sanctuary is not technically a governing body, however, as a collective, it has the authority to:
*ratify and overturn the rulings of the Areopagus
*act as representitives of the OHO and National Grand Masters when need arises
*fill the office of Revolutionary
*vote within the Secret Areopagus
*have some powers over the installation and removal of the OHO and National Grand Masters

4. The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' is a philosophical Governing Body comprised of those who have reached the VIII°. It has the authority to reverse the decisions of the Grand Tribunal. It’s duties are:
*compose and resolve all conflicts between any of the governing bodies of the Order
*Draft and approve all Amendments to the Bylaws of the Order
*Resolve disputes between the various Guilds

5. In addition to the above-listed bodies, IHQ includes a number of administrative offices including:
*Revolutionaries (2)
*International Initiation Secretary
*EGC Secretary
*Quartermasters for Asia and Europe
*Rights & Permissions for the Estate of Aleister Crowley
*International Archivist

The International Headquarters of O.T.O. is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious corporation under the name '''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Supreme Council.

===National===

1. International Headquarters has the power to charter '''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges''', with their own Officers and Administrative and Governing Bodies, in countries that have developed an organization large enough to support independent operations. Each Grand Lodge is presided over by a '''National Grand Master General''', who possesses the Tenth Degree (X°).

2. A Grand Lodge is administered by an '''Executive Council''', or '''Executive,''' which consists of the National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General.

3. The '''Supreme Grand Council''' consists of nine members of the VII° appointed by the National Grand Master General. It is charged with:
*the government of the whole of the Lovers Grade
*Hearing and deciding appeals of the decisions of the Electoral College
*Hearing reports of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General VII° as to the affairs of the Initiate members of the Lovers Grade

The National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General are ''ex officio'' members of the Supreme Grand Council, and consititute its Executive Committee.

4. The '''Grand Tribunal''' is composed of members of the degree of Grand Inquisitor Commander (a sub-degree of the VI°). Their primary duty is to hear and arbitrate disputes and complains not resolved at the level of Chapters and Lodges. They may also grant exemption from any consequences within O.T.O. for pursuing a civil case. They may also rule in cases of abuse of authority and membership privileges. The Grand Tribunal is technically a Governing Body at the National level, due to the degree of its members. However, even members of higher grades are subject to the decisions of the Grand Tribunal.

5. The '''Electoral College''' consists of eleven members of the V° appointed by the National Grand Master General. Its primary duty is to oversee the affairs of the Man of Earth Grade. It has the authority to:
*appoint and remove Camp, Oasis, and Lodge Masters
*authorize invitations for initiate members to take the V° and enter the Lover Grade
*give full hearings to reports from initiate members of the degree of Sovereign Grand Inspector General VII° as to the condition of affairs of the members of the Man of Earth Triad

====Current Grand Lodges====

The '''U.S. Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United States of America. The U.S. National Grand Master General is Fr. Sabazius X°, who was appointed on 30 March 1996. The U.S. Grand Lodge is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious organization named '''Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A.''' (O.T.O. U.S.A.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Executive.

The '''UK Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United Kingdom. The U.K. National Grand Master General is Fr. Hyperion X°, who was appointed on 1 May 2005 (93 years after the last Grand Master for the UK, Aleister Crowley, was elevated to that office).

The '''Australia Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in Australia. The Australia National Grand Master General is Fr. Shiva X°, who was appointed on 15 April, 2006.

===O.T.O. Bodies===

At the Man of Earth level, there are three levels of Local Body, which are Camps, Oases, and Lodges.

1. '''Camps''' tend to be the smallest and are not required to perform intiations. They are encouraged to celebrate the Gnostic Mass.

2. '''Oases''' are the next largest, and should be able to initiate through the III°.

3. '''Lodges''' are the largest local body within the Man of Earth Grade, and are expected to celebrate the Gnostic Mass on a regular basis, work towards establishing a permenant temple, and have the ability to initiate through IV°/P.I.

'''Chapters of Rose Croix''' are bodies established by members of the Lover Grade. A Chapter is headed by a Most Wise Sovereign and a High Priestess. They are generally charged with arranging social activities, such as plays, banquets, and dances. They also work to promote harmony among the members by tact and friendliness.

'''Guilds''' are groups recognized by IHQ that are designed to promote a profession, trade, science or craft. Subject to approval by the Areopagus, they make their own regulations and coordinate their own efforts. There are currently three Guilds recognized by the Areopagus: the Psychology Guild, the Translators' Guild, and the Information Technology Guild.

The term '''Sanctuary''' is sometimes used to indicate a group of initiates organized for E.G.C. activities. This designation currently reflects no formal chartering process or official standing within the Order.

==History==

The founding of Ordo Templi Orientis began with a wealthy paper chemist, [[Carl Kellner]] (1851-1905). A student of the occult and familiar with several modern secret organizations, he had come to believe that he had discovered a “Key” to the symbolism of Freemasonry and to the Mysteries of Nature itself. He then aspired to create an ''[[Academia Masonica]]'' that would unifiy the various systems of Masonry. Kellner, along with an associate, [[Theodor Reuss]] (1855-1923), decided to call it the ''Oriental Templar Order.'' In 1902, Reuss, along with Franz Hartmann and Henry Klein, purchased the right to perform the Scottish, Memphis and Mizraim rites of Freemasonry, the authority of which was confirmed in 1904 and again in 1905. These rites, along with the Swedenborgian Rite, formed the core of the newly established Order. When Kellner died in 1905, Reuss assumed full control, becoming the first Outer Head of the Order.

Ruess met Aleister Crowley and in 1910 admitted him to the three degrees of O.T.O. Only two years later Crowley was placed in charge of Great Britain and Ireland, and advanced to the X°. The appointment included the operation of the Masonic degrees of O.T.O., which were called ''Mysteria Mystica Maxima''. Within the year Crowley had written the Manifesto of the M.'.M.'.M.'. which described the basic ten-degree system—which was still principally Masonic—with Kellner’s three degree ''Academia Masonica'' forming the VII°, VIII° and IX°.

In 1913, Crowley composed the Gnostic Mass while in Moscow, which he described as being the Order’s “central ceremony of its public and private celebration.” In 1914, soon after World War I broke out, he moved to America. It was around this time that he decided to integrate Thelema into the O.T.O. system, and in 1915 had revised rituals prepared for use in his M.'.M.'.M.'.. He revised them again in 1918, and in so doing removed the ritual's ties to Masonry.

In 1921, Reuss issued a charter to [[Charles Stansfeld Jones]] as X° for the U.S. The very next year, Crowley proclaimed himself as Outer Head of the Order of O.T.O. based on the claim that Reuss (who might have suffered a stroke) had become incapable of running the Order. Reuss died in 1923.

In 1933, Agape Lodge #2 was formed in Los Angeles, California under the leadership of [[Wilfred Talbot Smith]] (1885-1957). He and [[Regina Kahl]] celebrated the first public performance of the Gnostic Mass. Smith was advanced to the X° for the U.S. in 1935. Soon after, the Lodge moved to Pasadena where it was run by [[Jack Parsons]] (1914-1952), a founder of the JPL.

During WWII, the European branches of O.T.O. were either destroyed or driven underground. By the end of the war, the only surviving O.T.O. body was Agapé Lodge, although there were various initiates in different countries. Very few initiations were being performed. At this time, [[Karl Germer]], who had been Crowley’s representitive in Germany, came over to America after being released from Nazi confinement. In 1942, Crowley appointed him as his successor as OHO.

In that same year, Crowley personally conferred the IX° to [[Grady McMurtry]] (1918-1985), a member of Agapé Lodge. It was then that he assumed his new Magical Name, ''Hymenaeus Alpha''. McMurtry received several letters from Crowley in 1944 stating his desire to have McMurtry assume the role of [[Caliph]] and to be in line for succession to OHO. In 1946, McMurtry was entrusted with documents of emergency authorization to operate O.T.O. within California (the location of the only operational Lodge), along with the appointment of being Crowley’s personal representitive within the U.S., second only to Germer.

Crowley died on December 1, 1947 and Karl Germer became OHO. He served from 1947 until his death in 1962. During his time as OHO, O.T.O. activity came to a standstill, with no new initiations being performed. An O.T.O. camp was chartered in England to [[Kenneth Grant]], but he was expelled in 1955 for modifying the initiation rituals and claiming that the body was under joint leadership with another organization, ''[[Fraternitas Saturni]].''

Germer died in 1962 without himself naming a successor. In 1969, Grady McMurtry invoked his emergency authorization from Crowley and assumed the title of [[Caliph]], which Crowley had granted him. He began performing intiations in 1970. Growth was very slow for the first few years, although McMurtry did pick up on the publishing front, such as issuing Crowely’s ''[[Tarot|Thoth Tarot]]'' deck. Grady McMurtry died in 1985.

McMurtry requested that members of the Sovereign Sanctuary elect the next OHO, which they did in 1985. Frater [[Hymenaeus Beta]] was elected to become the next OHO and he continues in that office today. In 1996, [[Sabazius]] X° was appointed as National Grand Master General for the U.S. Grand Lodge. Since McMurtry's time, O.T.O. has greatly expanded its publishing activities, initiated thousands of men and women into its ranks, and become an international organization with groups in dozens of countries around the world.

==Legalities==

*1976: the Superior Court in Calaveras County, California recognizes Grady McMurtry as the authorized representative of O.T.O.
*1979: O.T.O. is incorporated under the laws of the State of California
*1982: The corporation attains Federal Tax exemption as a religious entity under IRS Code 501(c)3
*1985: in the 9th Federal District Court in San Francisco, McMurtry is found to be the legitimate head of O.T.O. within the United States, and that O.T.O. under McMurtry is the continuation of the O.T.O. of Aleister Crowley, and the exclusive owner of the names, trademarks, copyrights and other assets of O.T.O. This decision is appealed and upheld.
*1996: The existing corporation reorganizes as International Headquarters of O.T.O. and a new corporation is founded for U.S. Grand Lodge.
*2002: The United Kingdom High Court finds that O.T.O. is the sole owner of the copyrights for all of the works of Aleister Crowley.

==Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy==

One of the dramatic aspects of Ordo Templi Orientis is the continuing issue of legitimacy. Over the years, several individuals and groups have claimed the title of OHO or to be the ‘true’ O.T.O.

*'''[[Hermann Metzger]]''', who had been a member of the early Swiss O.T.O. under Reuss, made the claim soon after Germer’s death in 1962. Supposedly there had been an election there which appointed him OHO. However, it was later shown that Germer had not considered Metzger a regularized member of O.T.O. as it had developed under Crowley. No one recognized his claim outside of his own group. Metzger died in 1990.

*'''[[Kenneth Grant]]''', who had been expelled from O.T.O. in 1955, also made the claim to OHO after Germer’s passing. Grant did not initially provide any factual basis or evidence for his claim except to say he had a correspondence with Crowley, that Germer had never actually been OHO, and that McMurtry was not the legitimate OHO. He called his organization ''Ordo Templi Orientis;'' and others distinguished it as the [[Typhonian O.T.O.]]. Eventually his supporters produced a handwritten letter purporting to be Grant's authorization from Crowley, but this was later admitted to be a forgery. Grant's organization now calls itself the [[Typhonian Order]].

*'''[[Marcelo Ramos Motta]]''' tried to assume control of the Order under the name "[[Society Ordo Templi Orientis]]." His claim was based on his story that Germer’s wife, Sasha, told him that Karl’s last words stated that Motta was “the follower.” Although Motta had been an [[A.'.A.'.]] student under Germer, he had never actually been initiated into O.T.O. He also sued for ownership of Crowley’s copyrights, which were denied to him by the U.S. District Court in Maine. Motta died in 1987, although various small groups calling themselves S.O.T.O. continue to exist.

Other groups that have made use of the O.T.O. name are:

*'''Albion O.T.O.''', located in London, England, claiming to unify all the different “branches” of O.T.O. [http://www.uk-oto.org/oto_main.htm]

*The '''Parzival XI° O.T.O. Foundation''', claiming to support and legitimize Motta’s Society O.T.O. [http://members.ozemail.com.au/~realoto/pf.html]

*'''Ur-O.T.O.''', whose main goals are to “manifest A.M.I.C.I.T.I.A. (Amity, Magia, Inspiration, Companionship, Inclusion, Truth, Individuality, Agape) and to make this a living power in the Life of all Beings.” [http://members.aol.com/UROTO/index.html]

==Links of Interest==

*[http://oto-usa.org/ O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/main.html The Invisible Basilica of Sabazius]—site of the current Grand Master of U.S. Grand Lodge
*[http://www.ashami.com/eidolons/Main_Page Eidolons of Ash]—includes OTO-related original essays and seminal texts

Hymenaeus Beta

2009-07-23T13:41:04Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Frater Superior of O.T.O. */ bullet fix

'''Hymenaeus Beta''' is the current Outer Head of the Order (OHO or "Caliph") of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. He was born in Paris, France on 12 August 1955. He studied music in New England, possibly at Harvard University, in the 1970s. He is a musician who plays electric viola, mandolin, guitar, bass and electronics. HB was a member of Coil from 1997 through 2004, playing electric viola.

HB has also played with Psychic TV and appears on ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (1995), ''Cold Blue Torch'' (1995), ''Trip Reset'' (1996), ''Spatial Memory'' (1996), and ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (2004) and is mostly credited as playing viola and viola synthesizer.

==Occult activities==
HB has been involved in the [[occult]] since at least August of 1978, when he was initiated into the Minerval degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. During the next few years, he advanced through the ''Man of Earth'' degrees of O.T.O., taking his IV° & P.I. at Tahuti Lodge in New York City in January of 1985.

Following the death of Hymenaeus Alpha ([[Grady McMurtry]]), HB was elected as the new of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] in a special election by all the active IX° members of O.T.O., where he assumed the name '''Hymenaeus Beta'''.

===Frater Superior of O.T.O.===
Frater Hymenaeus Beta XII° is the current Outer Head of the Order (O.H.O.) of Ordo Templi Orientis. He was elevated to that office in 1985, following the death of his predecessor, Grady McMurtry (Hymenaeus Alpha). As O.H.O., he holds supreme authority over O.T.O. In addition, the O.H.O. is ''ex officio'' the Patriarch of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]], the liturgical arm of O.T.O.

Significant accomplishments during Hymenaeus Beta's reign include:

* Expansion of the O.T.O., including the establishment of national Grand Lodges in the United States, Britain, and Australia, and increased membership and local activity worldwide
* Establishment and protection of the Order's legal ownership of the Crowley literary estate
* Conservation of original Crowley materials, including restoration of the original art for the Crowley-Harris Thoth Tarot
* Publication of many books by Crowley, his contemporaries, and modern Thelemic writers

===Editor of Thelemic Books===
HB is well-known in the occult community as the editor of many of the works of [[Aleister Crowley]].

The works he has edited include:
*''The Equinox, Volume III, Number 10'', Weiser Books.
*''The Equinox of the Gods'', New Falcon Publications.
*''The Heart of the Master & Other Papers'', Thelema Media.
*''The Law is for All'', Thelema Media.
*''Magick: Liber ABA: Book 4''. Weiser Books.
*''The General Principles of Astrology''. Weiser Books.
*''Diary of a Drug Fiend''. Red Wheel/Weiser.

==See also==
*[[Hymenaeus Alpha]]
*[[Ordo Templi Orientis]]

==External links==
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/news1997.html Coil News 1997]
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/ Coil News 1998-2004]

==References==
*Adapted from: Wikipedia. (2005). ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Breeze William Breeze]''. Retrieved on June 21, 2005.
[[Category:Thelemites]]
[[Category: Ordo Templi Orientis]]

Hymenaeus Beta

2009-07-23T13:40:45Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Frater Superior of O.T.O. */ deleted ritual standards bullet (mostly a USGL thing)

'''Hymenaeus Beta''' is the current Outer Head of the Order (OHO or "Caliph") of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. He was born in Paris, France on 12 August 1955. He studied music in New England, possibly at Harvard University, in the 1970s. He is a musician who plays electric viola, mandolin, guitar, bass and electronics. HB was a member of Coil from 1997 through 2004, playing electric viola.

HB has also played with Psychic TV and appears on ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (1995), ''Cold Blue Torch'' (1995), ''Trip Reset'' (1996), ''Spatial Memory'' (1996), and ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (2004) and is mostly credited as playing viola and viola synthesizer.

==Occult activities==
HB has been involved in the [[occult]] since at least August of 1978, when he was initiated into the Minerval degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. During the next few years, he advanced through the ''Man of Earth'' degrees of O.T.O., taking his IV° & P.I. at Tahuti Lodge in New York City in January of 1985.

Following the death of Hymenaeus Alpha ([[Grady McMurtry]]), HB was elected as the new of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] in a special election by all the active IX° members of O.T.O., where he assumed the name '''Hymenaeus Beta'''.

===Frater Superior of O.T.O.===
Frater Hymenaeus Beta XII° is the current Outer Head of the Order (O.H.O.) of Ordo Templi Orientis. He was elevated to that office in 1985, following the death of his predecessor, Grady McMurtry (Hymenaeus Alpha). As O.H.O., he holds supreme authority over O.T.O. In addition, the O.H.O. is ''ex officio'' the Patriarch of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]], the liturgical arm of O.T.O.

Significant accomplishments during Hymenaeus Beta's reign include:

* Expansion of the O.T.O., including the establishment of national Grand Lodges in the United States, Britain, and Australia, and increased membership and local activity worldwide* Establishment and protection of the Order's legal ownership of the Crowley literary estate
* Conservation of original Crowley materials, including restoration of the original art for the Crowley-Harris Thoth Tarot
* Publication of many books by Crowley, his contemporaries, and modern Thelemic writers

===Editor of Thelemic Books===
HB is well-known in the occult community as the editor of many of the works of [[Aleister Crowley]].

The works he has edited include:
*''The Equinox, Volume III, Number 10'', Weiser Books.
*''The Equinox of the Gods'', New Falcon Publications.
*''The Heart of the Master & Other Papers'', Thelema Media.
*''The Law is for All'', Thelema Media.
*''Magick: Liber ABA: Book 4''. Weiser Books.
*''The General Principles of Astrology''. Weiser Books.
*''Diary of a Drug Fiend''. Red Wheel/Weiser.

==See also==
*[[Hymenaeus Alpha]]
*[[Ordo Templi Orientis]]

==External links==
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/news1997.html Coil News 1997]
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/ Coil News 1998-2004]

==References==
*Adapted from: Wikipedia. (2005). ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Breeze William Breeze]''. Retrieved on June 21, 2005.
[[Category:Thelemites]]
[[Category: Ordo Templi Orientis]]

Hymenaeus Beta

2009-07-23T13:38:33Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Editorial work */

'''Hymenaeus Beta''' is the current Outer Head of the Order (OHO or "Caliph") of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. He was born in Paris, France on 12 August 1955. He studied music in New England, possibly at Harvard University, in the 1970s. He is a musician who plays electric viola, mandolin, guitar, bass and electronics. HB was a member of Coil from 1997 through 2004, playing electric viola.

HB has also played with Psychic TV and appears on ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (1995), ''Cold Blue Torch'' (1995), ''Trip Reset'' (1996), ''Spatial Memory'' (1996), and ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (2004) and is mostly credited as playing viola and viola synthesizer.

==Occult activities==
HB has been involved in the [[occult]] since at least August of 1978, when he was initiated into the Minerval degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. During the next few years, he advanced through the ''Man of Earth'' degrees of O.T.O., taking his IV° & P.I. at Tahuti Lodge in New York City in January of 1985.

Following the death of Hymenaeus Alpha ([[Grady McMurtry]]), HB was elected as the new of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] in a special election by all the active IX° members of O.T.O., where he assumed the name '''Hymenaeus Beta'''.

===Frater Superior of O.T.O.===
Frater Hymenaeus Beta XII° is the current Outer Head of the Order (O.H.O.) of Ordo Templi Orientis. He was elevated to that office in 1985, following the death of his predecessor, Grady McMurtry (Hymenaeus Alpha). As O.H.O., he holds supreme authority over O.T.O. In addition, the O.H.O. is ''ex officio'' the Patriarch of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]], the liturgical arm of O.T.O.

Significant accomplishments during Hymenaeus Beta's reign include:

* Establishment and protection of the Order's legal ownership of the Crowley literary estate
* Conservation of original Crowley materials, including restoration of the original art for the Crowley-Harris Thoth Tarot
* Publication of many books by Crowley, his contemporaries, and modern Thelemic writers
* Expansion of the O.T.O., including the establishment of national Grand Lodges in the United States, Britain, and Australia, and increased membership and local activity worldwide
* Standard policies and improved standards of performance for degree initiations and the [[Gnostic Mass]]

===Editor of Thelemic Books===
HB is well-known in the occult community as the editor of many of the works of [[Aleister Crowley]].

The works he has edited include:
*''The Equinox, Volume III, Number 10'', Weiser Books.
*''The Equinox of the Gods'', New Falcon Publications.
*''The Heart of the Master & Other Papers'', Thelema Media.
*''The Law is for All'', Thelema Media.
*''Magick: Liber ABA: Book 4''. Weiser Books.
*''The General Principles of Astrology''. Weiser Books.
*''Diary of a Drug Fiend''. Red Wheel/Weiser.

==See also==
*[[Hymenaeus Alpha]]
*[[Ordo Templi Orientis]]

==External links==
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/news1997.html Coil News 1997]
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/ Coil News 1998-2004]

==References==
*Adapted from: Wikipedia. (2005). ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Breeze William Breeze]''. Retrieved on June 21, 2005.
[[Category:Thelemites]]
[[Category: Ordo Templi Orientis]]

Hymenaeus Beta

2009-07-23T13:38:00Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Hymenaeus Beta */

'''Hymenaeus Beta''' is the current Outer Head of the Order (OHO or "Caliph") of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. He was born in Paris, France on 12 August 1955. He studied music in New England, possibly at Harvard University, in the 1970s. He is a musician who plays electric viola, mandolin, guitar, bass and electronics. HB was a member of Coil from 1997 through 2004, playing electric viola.

HB has also played with Psychic TV and appears on ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (1995), ''Cold Blue Torch'' (1995), ''Trip Reset'' (1996), ''Spatial Memory'' (1996), and ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (2004) and is mostly credited as playing viola and viola synthesizer.

==Occult activities==
HB has been involved in the [[occult]] since at least August of 1978, when he was initiated into the Minerval degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. During the next few years, he advanced through the ''Man of Earth'' degrees of O.T.O., taking his IV° & P.I. at Tahuti Lodge in New York City in January of 1985.

Following the death of Hymenaeus Alpha ([[Grady McMurtry]]), HB was elected as the new of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] in a special election by all the active IX° members of O.T.O., where he assumed the name '''Hymenaeus Beta'''.

===Frater Superior of O.T.O.===
Frater Hymenaeus Beta XII° is the current Outer Head of the Order (O.H.O.) of Ordo Templi Orientis. He was elevated to that office in 1985, following the death of his predecessor, Grady McMurtry (Hymenaeus Alpha). As O.H.O., he holds supreme authority over O.T.O. In addition, the O.H.O. is ''ex officio'' the Patriarch of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]], the liturgical arm of O.T.O.

Significant accomplishments during Hymenaeus Beta's reign include:

* Establishment and protection of the Order's legal ownership of the Crowley literary estate
* Conservation of original Crowley materials, including restoration of the original art for the Crowley-Harris Thoth Tarot
* Publication of many books by Crowley, his contemporaries, and modern Thelemic writers
* Expansion of the O.T.O., including the establishment of national Grand Lodges in the United States, Britain, and Australia, and increased membership and local activity worldwide
* Standard policies and improved standards of performance for degree initiations and the [[Gnostic Mass]]

===Editorial work===
HB is well-known in the occult community as the editor of many of the works of [[Aleister Crowley]].

The works he has edited include:
*''The Equinox, Volume III, Number 10'', Weiser Books.
*''The Equinox of the Gods'', New Falcon Publications.
*''The Heart of the Master & Other Papers'', Thelema Media.
*''The Law is for All'', Thelema Media.
*''Magick: Liber ABA: Book 4''. Weiser Books.
*''The General Principles of Astrology''. Weiser Books.
*''Diary of a Drug Fiend''. Red Wheel/Weiser.

==See also==
*[[Hymenaeus Alpha]]
*[[Ordo Templi Orientis]]

==External links==
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/news1997.html Coil News 1997]
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/ Coil News 1998-2004]

==References==
*Adapted from: Wikipedia. (2005). ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Breeze William Breeze]''. Retrieved on June 21, 2005.
[[Category:Thelemites]]
[[Category: Ordo Templi Orientis]]

Aum. Ha. Oasis

2009-07-23T01:48:32Z

Paradoxosalpha:

Aum. Ha. Oasis is the local body of [[O.T.O.]] in Chicago, Illinois. It was first chartered in 1993 as Aum. Ha. Encampment. (Previous chartered bodies in Chicago included AHA Camp, Perdurabo Camp, and Collegium 93 Camp.)

The Oasis is currently (July 2009) under the longstanding administration of its third Most Mysterious Master, Frater Upowat. It provides a full range of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica|E.G.C.]] services with both public and private [[Gnostic Mass]] each month, and ongoing initiations through the Third Degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis#initiation|Mysteria Mystica Maxima]].

The Current is the journal of the Oasis, presently on sale at five locations in the Chicago area. Other Oasis projects include the production of ritual video, regular incense-crafting workshops, the Javacrucians discussion group, and a continuing Enochian Chess club.

==External Links==
*[http://www.aumha-oto.org/ Aum. Ha. Oasis]

Aum. Ha. Oasis

2009-07-22T20:09:22Z

Paradoxosalpha:

{{stub}}

Aum. Ha. Oasis is the local body of [[O.T.O.]] in Chicago, Illinois. It was first chartered in the mid-1990s as Aum. Ha. Encampment. (Previous chartered bodies in Chicago included AHA Camp, Perdurabo Camp, and Collegium 93 Camp.)

The Oasis is currently under the longstanding administration of its third Most Mysterious Master, Frater Upowat. It provides a full range of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica|E.G.C.]] services with both public and private [[Gnostic Mass]] each month, and ongoing initiations through the Third Degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis#initiation|Mysteria Mystica Maxima]]. The Current is the journal of the Oasis, presently on sale at five locations in the Chicago area.

==External Links==
*[http://www.aumha-oto.org/ Aum. Ha. Oasis]

Aum. Ha. Oasis

2009-07-22T20:07:23Z

Paradoxosalpha: Noted The Current

{{stub}}

Aum. Ha. Oasis is the local body of [[O.T.O.]] in Chicago, Illinois. It was first chartered in the mid-1990s as Aum. Ha. Encampment. (Previous chartered bodies in Chicago included Aha Camp, Perdurabo Camp, and Collegium 93 Camp.)

The Oasis is currently under the administration of its third Most Mysterious Master, Frater Upowat. It provides a full range of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica|E.G.C.]] services with both public and private [[Gnostic Mass]] each month, and ongoing initiations through the Third Degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis#initiation|Mysteria Mystica Maxima]]. The Current is the journal of the Oasis, presently on sale at five locations in the Chicago area.

==External Links==
*[http://www.aumha-oto.org/ Aum. Ha. Oasis]

Dorothy Olsen

2009-07-22T19:42:47Z

Paradoxosalpha: d'oh: undoing previous edit as redundant

{{stub}}

'''Dorothy Olsen''', a.k.a. Soror Astrid, assumed the role of Scarlet Woman to Crowley in 1924.

Dorothy Olsen

2009-07-22T19:42:14Z

Paradoxosalpha:

{{stub}}

'''Dorothy Olsen''', a.k.a. Soror Astrid, assumed the role of Scarlet Woman to Crowley in 1924. Her magical name was Sor. Astrid.

Hymenaeus Beta

2009-07-22T18:45:10Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Hymenaeus Beta */ accomplishments

'''Hymenaeus Beta''' is the current Outer Head of the Order (OHO or "Caliph") of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. He was born in Paris, France on 12 August 1955. He studied music in New England, possibly at Harvard University, in the 1970s. He is a musician who plays electric viola, mandolin, guitar, bass and electronics. HB was a member of Coil from 1997 through 2004, playing electric viola.

HB has also played with Psychic TV and appears on ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (1995), ''Cold Blue Torch'' (1995), ''Trip Reset'' (1996), ''Spatial Memory'' (1996), and ''Thee Fractured Garden'' (2004) and is mostly credited as playing viola and viola synthesizer.

==Occult activities==
HB has been involved in the [[occult]] since at least August of 1978, when he was initiated into the Minerval degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]]. During the next few years, he advanced through the ''Man of Earth'' degrees of O.T.O., taking his IV° & P.I. at Tahuti Lodge in New York City in January of 1985.

Following the death of Hymenaeus Alpha ([[Grady McMurtry]]), HB was elected as the new of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] in a special election by all the active IX° members of O.T.O., where he assumed the name '''Hymenaeus Beta'''.

===Hymenaeus Beta===
Frater Hymenaeus Beta XII° is the current Outer Head of the Order (O.H.O.) of Ordo Templi Orientis. He was elevated to that office in 1985, following the death of his predecessor, Grady McMurtry (Hymenaeus Alpha). As O.H.O., he holds supreme authority over O.T.O. In addition, the O.H.O. is ''ex officio'' the Patriarch of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]], the liturgical arm of O.T.O.

Significant accomplishments during Hymenaeus Beta's reign include:

* Establishment and protection of the Order's legal ownership of the Crowley literary estate
* Conservation of original Crowley materials, including restoration of the original art for the Crowley-Harris Thoth Tarot
* Publication of many books by Crowley, his contemporaries, and modern Thelemic writers
* Expansion of the O.T.O., including the establishment of national Grand Lodges in the United States, Britain, and Australia, and increased membership and local activity worldwide
* Standard policies and improved standards of performance for degree initiations and the [[Gnostic Mass]]

===Editorial work===
HB is well-known in the occult community as the editor of many of the works of [[Aleister Crowley]].

The works he has edited include:
*''The Equinox, Volume III, Number 10'', Weiser Books.
*''The Equinox of the Gods'', New Falcon Publications.
*''The Heart of the Master & Other Papers'', Thelema Media.
*''The Law is for All'', Thelema Media.
*''Magick: Liber ABA: Book 4''. Weiser Books.
*''The General Principles of Astrology''. Weiser Books.
*''Diary of a Drug Fiend''. Red Wheel/Weiser.

==See also==
*[[Hymenaeus Alpha]]
*[[Ordo Templi Orientis]]

==External links==
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/news1997.html Coil News 1997]
*[http://www.brainwashed.com/coil/news/ Coil News 1998-2004]

==References==
*Adapted from: Wikipedia. (2005). ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Breeze William Breeze]''. Retrieved on June 21, 2005.
[[Category:Thelemites]]
[[Category: Ordo Templi Orientis]]

Aum. Ha. Oasis

2009-07-22T18:41:03Z

Paradoxosalpha: fixing internal links

{{stub}}

Aum. Ha. Oasis is the local body of [[O.T.O.]] in Chicago, Illinois. It was first chartered in the mid-1990s as Aum. Ha. Encampment. (Previous chartered bodies in Chicago included Aha Camp, Perdurabo Camp, and Collegium 93 Camp.)

The Oasis is currently under the administration of its third Most Mysterious Master, Frater Upowat. It provides a full range of [[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica|E.G.C.]] services with both public and private [[Gnostic Mass]] each month, and ongoing initiations through the Third Degree of [[Ordo Templi Orientis#initiation|Mysteria Mystica Maxima]].

==External Links==
*[http://www.aumha-oto.org/ Aum. Ha. Oasis]

Aum. Ha. Oasis

2009-07-22T18:36:07Z

Paradoxosalpha:

{{stub}}

Aum. Ha. Oasis is the local body of [[O.T.O.]] in Chicago, Illinois. It was first chartered in the mid-1990s as Aum. Ha. Encampment. (Previous chartered bodies in Chicago included Aha Camp, Perdurabo Camp, and Collegium 93 Camp.)

The Oasis is currently under the administration of its third Most Mysterious Master, Frater Upowat. It provides a full range of [[E.G.C.]] services with both public and private [[Gnostic Mass]] each month, and ongoing initiations through the Third Degree of [[Mysteria Mystica Maxima]].

==External Links==
*[http://www.aumha-oto.org/ Aum. Ha. Oasis]

Ordo Templi Orientis

2009-07-22T14:51:40Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy */

'''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.) can be translated as ''Order of Oriental Templars,'' or ''Order of the Temple of the East.'' It is a secret, fraternal organization similar to that of [[Freemasonry]], with a series of graded [[Initiation|initations]]. For its teachings and principles of organization, it has accepted the Law of [[Thelema]], which is expressed as “Do what thou wilt.” Thelemites believe that this Law was established with the writing of [[the Book of the Law]] by [[Aleister Crowley]] in 1904 in Cairo, Egypt.
 

==Philosophy & Goals==

According to Crowley, O.T.O. is "the first of the great religious Societies to accept the Law." The rituals of O.T.O. have been entirely revised by Crowley and his successors in light of the Law of Thelema. Both within its private ceremonies and in the world at large, the Order seeks to promote the Law as the ultimate standard of human conduct and understanding.

O.T.O. was also designated as the Crowley estate, and maintains possession of Crowley's intellectual property and literary remains. As the custodian of these materials, the Order seeks to make them available to the public in definitive editions.

Even before accepting the Law, the Sovereign Sanctuary of the O.T.O. was a body that maintained a Supreme Secret, which is said to be of inestimable magical power. This secret still reposes in the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Ninth Degree, and its nature is indicated gradually by hints in the initiatory ceremonies of the Order.

In common with Freemasonry, the [[Theosophical Society]], and many other esoteric bodies, O.T.O. espouses an ethic of [[Universal Brotherhood]].

Of the entire system of O.T.O., Crowley wrote in ''Confessions:''

:It offers a rational basis for universal brotherhood and for universal religion. It puts forward a scientific statement which is a summary of all that is at present known about the universe by means of a simple, yet sublime symbolism, artistically arranged. It also enables each man to discover for himself his personal destiny, indicates the moral and intellectual qualities which he requires in order to fulfil it freely, and finally puts in his hands an unimaginably powerful weapon which he may use to develop in himself every faculty which he may need in his work.

The mission of O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge, which can largely be applied to the Order as a whole:

:Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A. is the U.S. Grand Lodge (National Section) of Ordo Templi Orientis, a hierarchical, religious membership organization. Our mission is to effect and promote the doctrines and practices of the philosophical and religious system known as Thelema, with particular emphasis on cultivating the ideals of individual liberty, self-discipline, self-knowledge, and universal brotherhood. To this end, we conduct sacramental and initiatory rites, offer guidance and instruction to our members, organize social events, and engage in educational and community service activities at locations throughout the United States.

==Activities==

O.T.O. has two core areas of ritual activity: initiation into the [[Mystery|Mysteries]], and the celebration of Liber XV, the [[The Gnostic Mass|Gnostic Mass]]. In addition, the Order organizes lectures, classes, social events, theatrical productions and artistic exhibitions, and publishes books, journals, and newsletters.

===Initiation===

Within O.T.O., the process of initiation is unlike that of many college fraternities or the military, the goal of which is to bond the individual to the group by means of ego-collapse, often via methods of pain, exhaustion, and degredation. Within O.T.O., the rituals are designed to be challenging, but in a way that honors the candidate. If bonding does occur, it does so through a conscious and willed effort on the part of the initiate. The ultimate goal of initiation in O.T.O. is "to instruct the individual by allegory and symbol in the profound mysteries of Nature, and thereby to assist each to discover his or her own true Identity."[http://oto-usa.org/init.html]

O.T.O. uses a graded system, similar to that of Freemasonry. There are thirteen numbered degrees and twelve un-numbered. They are divided into three grades or "triads": the Hermit, the Lover, and the Man of Earth. The entire system is as follows:

*'''The Man of Earth Triad'''
**0°—Minerval
**I°—Man & Brother / Woman & Sister
**II°—Magician
**III°—Master Magician
**IV°—Perfect Magician & companion of the Holy Royal Arch of Enoch
**P.I.—Perfect Initiate, or Prince of Jerusalem

*'''Outside all Triads'''
**Knight of the East & West

*'''The Lover Triad'''
**V°—
***Sovereign Prince Rose-Croix, and Knight of the Pelican & Eagle
***Knight of the Red Eagle, and Member of the Senate of Knight Hermetic Philosophers
**VI°—
***Illustrious Knight (Templar) of the Order of Kadosch, and Companion of the Holy Graal
***Grand Inquisitor Commander, and Member of the Grand Tribunal
***Prince of the Royal Secret
**VII°—
***Theoreticus, and Very Illustrious Sovereign Grand Inspector General
***Magus of Light, and Bishop of Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica
***Grandmaster of Light, and Inspector of Rites & Degrees

*'''The Hermit Triad'''
**VIII°—
***Perfect Pontiff of the Illuminati
***Epopt of the Illuminati
**IX°—Initiate of the Sanctuary of the Gnosis
**X°—Rex Summus Sanctissimus
**XI°—Initiate of the Eleventh Degree (This degree is technical, and has no relation to the general plan of the Order)
**XII°—Frater Superior, [[Caliph]], and Outer Head of the Order

===The Gnostic Catholic Church===

The '''[[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]]''', or Gnostic Catholic Church, is the ecclesiastical arm of O.T.O. Its cental activity is the celebration of Liber XV, [[the Gnostic Mass]]. In recent years, other rites have been written and approved for use within the church. These include Baptism, Confirmation (into the Laity), and Ordination (for Deacons, Priests & Priestesses, and Bishops), and Last Rites. There are also several "unofficial" rituals that are celebrated within the context of E.G.C., including Weddings, Visitation and Administration of the Virtues to the Sick, [[Exorcism]], and Rites for [[Life]] and [[Greater Feast]]s. Clergy in local sanctuaries can also choose to celebrate original rituals, such as "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/liturgy93.htm Liturgy 93]" or the "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/xquart.htm Feasts of the Cross-Quarters]."

See also: [[E.G.C. Ceremonies]]

====Membership in E.G.C.====

#'''The Clergy'''
#*'''The Father/Mother of the Church''' (The Patriarch or Matriarch)
#*'''The Primate''' (or Presiding Bishop, and is the National Grand Master General)
#*'''Bishops''' (The Episcopate)
#*'''Priests & Priestesses''' (The Priesthood)
#*'''Deacons''' (The Diaconate)
#*'''Novices''' (The Novitiate)
#'''Lay members''' (The Laity)
#'''Bishops in Amity''' (Advisory membership)

===Cultural Events===

Other than initiations and ecclesiastical work, there are many activities that O.T.O. members can engage in. The U.S. Grand Lodge has hosted national conferences since 2000. On the local level, bodies host a wide range of events, including ritual theatre, classes & workshops, original rituals, publication of journals and books, creation of a web presence, study groups, and informal social gatherings. Some lodges have hosted smaller conferences on topics such as business aspects of O.T.O., women in Thelema, and other subjects of interest.

==Structure==

The Structure of O.T.O. is outlined in several historical documents, principally the ''Constitution of O.T.O.'' (1906, revised 1917), the ''Constitution of M.'.M.'.M.'.'' (1913), and ''Liber 194: An Intimation With Reference to the Constitution of the Order'' (1919).

The governing bodies of O.T.O. include:

#'''International Headquarters'''
#*Presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' XII° (OHO—also known as Frater Superior)
#*'''Supreme Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' of the IX°
#*The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' of the VIII°
#'''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges'''
#*Presided over by a '''National Grand Master''' X°
#*'''Executive Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Supreme Grand Council'''
#*The '''Grand Tribunal''' of the VI°
#*The '''Electoral College '''

===International===

1. '''International Headquarters''' (IHQ) is the body that governs O.T.O. worldwide. IHQ is presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' (OHO—also known as Frater Superior), who possesses the XII°. Since the time of [[Grady McMurtry]], the office of Outer Head of the Order has been associated with the title of [[Caliph]].

2. IHQ is administered by the International '''Supreme Council''', which consists of the Outer Head of the Order, the Secretary General, and the Treasurer General.

3. The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' consists of members who have reached the IX°. Their prime duty is to study and practice the theurgy and thaumaturgy of the degree, consisting of the Supreme Secret of the Order. The Sovereign Sanctuary is not technically a governing body, however, as a collective, it has the authority to:
*ratify and overturn the rulings of the Areopagus
*act as representitives of the OHO and National Grand Masters when need arises
*fill the office of Revolutionary
*vote within the Secret Areopagus
*have some powers over the installation and removal of the OHO and National Grand Masters

4. The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' is a philosophical Governing Body comprised of those who have reached the VIII°. It has the authority to reverse the decisions of the Grand Tribunal. It’s duties are:
*compose and resolve all conflicts between any of the governing bodies of the Order
*Draft and approve all Amendments to the Bylaws of the Order
*Resolve disputes between the various Guilds

5. In addition to the above-listed bodies, IHQ includes a number of administrative offices including:
*Revolutionaries (2)
*International Initiation Secretary
*EGC Secretary
*Quartermasters for Asia and Europe
*Rights & Permissions for the Estate of Aleister Crowley
*International Archivist

The International Headquarters of O.T.O. is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious corporation under the name '''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Supreme Council.

===National===

1. International Headquarters has the power to charter '''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges''', with their own Officers and Administrative and Governing Bodies, in countries that have developed an organization large enough to support independent operations. Each Grand Lodge is presided over by a '''National Grand Master General''', who possesses the Tenth Degree (X°).

2. A Grand Lodge is administered by an '''Executive Council''', or '''Executive,''' which consists of the National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General.

3. The '''Supreme Grand Council''' consists of nine members of the VII° appointed by the National Grand Master General. It is charged with:
*the government of the whole of the Lovers Grade
*Hearing and deciding appeals of the decisions of the Electoral College
*Hearing reports of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General VII° as to the affairs of the Initiate members of the Lovers Grade

The National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General are ''ex officio'' members of the Supreme Grand Council, and consititute its Executive Committee.

4. The '''Grand Tribunal''' is composed of members of the degree of Grand Inquisitor Commander (a sub-degree of the VI°). Their primary duty is to hear and arbitrate disputes and complains not resolved at the level of Chapters and Lodges. They may also grant exemption from any consequences within O.T.O. for pursuing a civil case. They may also rule in cases of abuse of authority and membership privileges. The Grand Tribunal is technically a Governing Body at the National level, due to the degree of its members. However, even members of higher grades are subject to the decisions of the Grand Tribunal.

5. The '''Electoral College''' consists of eleven members of the V° appointed by the National Grand Master General. Its primary duty is to oversee the affairs of the Man of Earth Grade. It has the authority to:
*appoint and remove Camp, Oasis, and Lodge Masters
*authorize invitations for initiate members to take the V° and enter the Lover Grade
*give full hearings to reports from initiate members of the degree of Sovereign Grand Inspector General VII° as to the condition of affairs of the members of the Man of Earth Triad

====Current Grand Lodges====

The '''U.S. Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United States of America. The U.S. National Grand Master General is Fr. Sabazius X°, who was appointed on 30 March 1996. The U.S. Grand Lodge is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious organization named '''Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A.''' (O.T.O. U.S.A.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Executive.

The '''UK Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United Kingdom. The U.K. National Grand Master General is Fr. Hyperion X°, who was appointed on 1 May 2005 (93 years after the last Grand Master for the UK, Aleister Crowley, was elevated to that office).

The '''Australia Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in Australia. The Australia National Grand Master General is Fr. Shiva X°, who was appointed on 15 April, 2006.

===O.T.O. Bodies===

At the Man of Earth level, there are three levels of Local Body, which are Camps, Oases, and Lodges.

1. '''Camps''' tend to be the smallest and are not required to perform intiations. They are encouraged to celebrate the Gnostic Mass.

2. '''Oases''' are the next largest, and should be able to initiate through the III°.

3. '''Lodges''' are the largest local body within the Man of Earth Grade, and are expected to celebrate the Gnostic Mass on a regular basis, work towards establishing a permenant temple, and have the ability to initiate through IV°/P.I.

'''Chapters of Rose Croix''' are bodies established by members of the Lover Grade. A Chapter is headed by a Most Wise Sovereign and a High Priestess. They are generally charged with arranging social activities, such as plays, banquets, and dances. They also work to promote harmony among the members by tact and friendliness.

'''Guilds''' are groups recognized by IHQ that are designed to promote a profession, trade, science or craft. Subject to approval by the Areopagus, they make their own regulations and coordinate their own efforts. There are currently three Guilds recognized by the Areopagus: the Psychology Guild, the Translators' Guild, and the Information Technology Guild.

The term '''Sanctuary''' is sometimes used to indicate a group of initiates organized for E.G.C. activities. This designation currently reflects no formal chartering process or official standing within the Order.

==History==

The founding of Ordo Templi Orientis began with a wealthy paper chemist, [[Carl Kellner]] (1851-1905). A student of the occult and familiar with several modern secret organizations, he had come to believe that he had discovered a “Key” to the symbolism of Freemasonry and to the Mysteries of Nature itself. He then aspired to create an ''[[Academia Masonica]]'' that would unifiy the various systems of Masonry. Kellner, along with an associate, [[Theodor Reuss]] (1855-1923), decided to call it the ''Oriental Templar Order.'' In 1902, Reuss, along with Franz Hartmann and Henry Klein, purchased the right to perform the Scottish, Memphis and Mizraim rites of Freemasonry, the authority of which was confirmed in 1904 and again in 1905. These rites, along with the Swedenborgian Rite, formed the core of the newly established Order. When Kellner died in 1905, Reuss assumed full control, becoming the first Outer Head of the Order.

Ruess met Aleister Crowley and in 1910 admitted him to the three degrees of O.T.O. Only two years later Crowley was placed in charge of Great Britain and Ireland, and advanced to the X°. The appointment included the operation of the Masonic degrees of O.T.O., which were called ''Mysteria Mystica Maxima''. Within the year Crowley had written the Manifesto of the M.'.M.'.M.'. which described the basic ten-degree system—which was still principally Masonic—with Kellner’s three degree ''Academia Masonica'' forming the VII°, VIII° and IX°.

In 1913, Crowley composed the Gnostic Mass while in Moscow, which he described as being the Order’s “central ceremony of its public and private celebration.” In 1914, soon after World War I broke out, he moved to America. It was around this time that he decided to integrate Thelema into the O.T.O. system, and in 1915 had revised rituals prepared for use in his M.'.M.'.M.'.. He revised them again in 1918, and in so doing removed the ritual's ties to Masonry.

In 1921, Reuss issued a charter to [[Charles Stansfeld Jones]] as X° for the U.S. The very next year, Crowley proclaimed himself as Outer Head of the Order of O.T.O. based on the claim that Reuss (who might have suffered a stroke) had become incapable of running the Order. Reuss died in 1923.

In 1933, Agape Lodge #2 was formed in Los Angeles, California under the leadership of [[Wilfred Talbot Smith]] (1885-1957). He and [[Regina Kahl]] celebrated the first public performance of the Gnostic Mass. Smith was advanced to the X° for the U.S. in 1935. Soon after, the Lodge moved to Pasadena where it was run by [[Jack Parsons]] (1914-1952), a founder of the JPL.

During WWII, the European branches of O.T.O. were either destroyed or driven underground. By the end of the war, the only surviving O.T.O. body was Agapé Lodge, although there were various initiates in different countries. Very few initiations were being performed. At this time, [[Karl Germer]], who had been Crowley’s representitive in Germany, came over to America after being released from Nazi confinement. In 1942, Crowley appointed him as his successor as OHO.

In that same year, Crowley personally conferred the IX° to [[Grady McMurtry]] (1918-1985), a member of Agapé Lodge. It was then that he assumed his new Magical Name, ''Hymenaeus Alpha''. McMurtry received several letters from Crowley in 1944 stating his desire to have McMurtry assume the role of [[Caliph]] and to be in line for succession to OHO. In 1946, McMurtry was entrusted with documents of emergency authorization to operate O.T.O. within California (the location of the only operational Lodge), along with the appointment of being Crowley’s personal representitive within the U.S., second only to Germer.

Crowley died on December 1, 1947 and Karl Germer became OHO. He served from 1947 until his death in 1962. During his time as OHO, O.T.O. activity came to a standstill, with no new initiations being performed. An O.T.O. camp was chartered in England to [[Kenneth Grant]], but he was expelled in 1955 for modifying the initiation rituals and claiming that the body was under joint leadership with another organization, ''[[Fraternitas Saturni]].''

Germer died in 1962 without himself naming a successor. In 1969, Grady McMurtry invoked his emergency authorization from Crowley and assumed the title of [[Caliph]], which Crowley had granted him. He began performing intiations in 1970. Growth was very slow for the first few years, although McMurtry did pick up on the publishing front, such as issuing Crowely’s ''[[Tarot|Thoth Tarot]]'' deck. Grady McMurtry died in 1985.

McMurtry requested that members of the Sovereign Sanctuary elect the next OHO, which they did in 1985. Frater [[Hymenaeus Beta]] was elected to become the next OHO and he continues in that office today. In 1996, [[Sabazius]] X° was appointed as National Grand Master General for the U.S. Grand Lodge. Since McMurtry's time, O.T.O. has greatly expanded its publishing activities, initiated thousands of men and women into its ranks, and become an international organization with groups in dozens of countries around the world.

==Legalities==

*1976: the Superior Court in Calaveras County, California recognizes Grady McMurtry as the authorized representative of O.T.O.
*1979: O.T.O. is incorporated under the laws of the State of California
*1982: The corporation attains Federal Tax exemption as a religious entity under IRS Code 501(c)3
*1985: in the 9th Federal District Court in San Francisco, McMurtry is found to be the legitimate head of O.T.O. within the United States, and that O.T.O. under McMurtry is the continuation of the O.T.O. of Aleister Crowley, and the exclusive owner of the names, trademarks, copyrights and other assets of O.T.O. This decision is appealed and upheld.
*1996: The existing corporation reorganizes as International Headquarters of O.T.O. and a new corporation is founded for U.S. Grand Lodge.
*2002: The United Kingdom High Court finds that O.T.O. is the sole owner of the copyrights for all of the works of Aleister Crowley.

==Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy==

One of the dramatic aspects of Ordo Templi Orientis is the continuing issue of legitimacy. Over the years, several individuals and groups have claimed the title of OHO or to be the ‘true’ O.T.O.

*'''[[Hermann Metzger]]''', who had been a member of the early Swiss O.T.O. under Reuss, made the claim soon after Germer’s death in 1962. Supposedly there had been an election there which appointed him OHO. However, it was later shown that Germer had not considered Metzger a regularized member of O.T.O. as it had developed under Crowley. No one recognized his claim outside of his own group. Metzger died in 1990.

*'''[[Kenneth Grant]]''', who had been expelled from O.T.O. in 1955, also made the claim to OHO after Germer’s passing. Grant does not provide any factual basis or evidence for his claim except to say he had a correspondence with Crowley, that Germer had never actually been OHO, and that McMurtry was not the legitimate OHO. He calls his ogranization ''Ordo Templi Orientis;'' others call it the [[Typhonian O.T.O.]]

*'''[[Marcelo Ramos Motta]]''' tried to assume control of the Order under the name "[[Society Ordo Templi Orientis]]." His claim was based on his story that Germer’s wife, Sasha, told him that Karl’s last words stated that Motta was “the follower.” Although Motta had been an [[A.'.A.'.]] student under Germer, he had never actually been initiated into O.T.O. He also sued for ownership of Crowley’s copyrights, which were denied to him by the U.S. District Court in Maine. Motta died in 1987, although various small groups calling themselves S.O.T.O. continue to exist.

Other groups that have made use of the O.T.O. name are:

*'''Albion O.T.O.''', located in London, England, claiming to unify all the different “branches” of O.T.O. [http://www.uk-oto.org/oto_main.htm]

*The '''Parzival XI° O.T.O. Foundation''', claiming to support and legitimize Motta’s Society O.T.O. [http://members.ozemail.com.au/~realoto/pf.html]

*'''Ur-O.T.O.''', whose main goals are to “manifest A.M.I.C.I.T.I.A. (Amity, Magia, Inspiration, Companionship, Inclusion, Truth, Individuality, Agape) and to make this a living power in the Life of all Beings.” [http://members.aol.com/UROTO/index.html]

==Links of Interest==

*[http://oto-usa.org/ O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/main.html The Invisible Basilica of Sabazius]—site of the current Grand Master of U.S. Grand Lodge
*[http://www.ashami.com/eidolons/Main_Page Eidolons of Ash]—includes OTO-related original essays and seminal texts

Ordo Templi Orientis

2009-07-22T14:50:11Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy */ changed tense to reflect possibly moribund status of groups listed

'''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.) can be translated as ''Order of Oriental Templars,'' or ''Order of the Temple of the East.'' It is a secret, fraternal organization similar to that of [[Freemasonry]], with a series of graded [[Initiation|initations]]. For its teachings and principles of organization, it has accepted the Law of [[Thelema]], which is expressed as “Do what thou wilt.” Thelemites believe that this Law was established with the writing of [[the Book of the Law]] by [[Aleister Crowley]] in 1904 in Cairo, Egypt.
 

==Philosophy & Goals==

According to Crowley, O.T.O. is "the first of the great religious Societies to accept the Law." The rituals of O.T.O. have been entirely revised by Crowley and his successors in light of the Law of Thelema. Both within its private ceremonies and in the world at large, the Order seeks to promote the Law as the ultimate standard of human conduct and understanding.

O.T.O. was also designated as the Crowley estate, and maintains possession of Crowley's intellectual property and literary remains. As the custodian of these materials, the Order seeks to make them available to the public in definitive editions.

Even before accepting the Law, the Sovereign Sanctuary of the O.T.O. was a body that maintained a Supreme Secret, which is said to be of inestimable magical power. This secret still reposes in the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Ninth Degree, and its nature is indicated gradually by hints in the initiatory ceremonies of the Order.

In common with Freemasonry, the [[Theosophical Society]], and many other esoteric bodies, O.T.O. espouses an ethic of [[Universal Brotherhood]].

Of the entire system of O.T.O., Crowley wrote in ''Confessions:''

:It offers a rational basis for universal brotherhood and for universal religion. It puts forward a scientific statement which is a summary of all that is at present known about the universe by means of a simple, yet sublime symbolism, artistically arranged. It also enables each man to discover for himself his personal destiny, indicates the moral and intellectual qualities which he requires in order to fulfil it freely, and finally puts in his hands an unimaginably powerful weapon which he may use to develop in himself every faculty which he may need in his work.

The mission of O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge, which can largely be applied to the Order as a whole:

:Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A. is the U.S. Grand Lodge (National Section) of Ordo Templi Orientis, a hierarchical, religious membership organization. Our mission is to effect and promote the doctrines and practices of the philosophical and religious system known as Thelema, with particular emphasis on cultivating the ideals of individual liberty, self-discipline, self-knowledge, and universal brotherhood. To this end, we conduct sacramental and initiatory rites, offer guidance and instruction to our members, organize social events, and engage in educational and community service activities at locations throughout the United States.

==Activities==

O.T.O. has two core areas of ritual activity: initiation into the [[Mystery|Mysteries]], and the celebration of Liber XV, the [[The Gnostic Mass|Gnostic Mass]]. In addition, the Order organizes lectures, classes, social events, theatrical productions and artistic exhibitions, and publishes books, journals, and newsletters.

===Initiation===

Within O.T.O., the process of initiation is unlike that of many college fraternities or the military, the goal of which is to bond the individual to the group by means of ego-collapse, often via methods of pain, exhaustion, and degredation. Within O.T.O., the rituals are designed to be challenging, but in a way that honors the candidate. If bonding does occur, it does so through a conscious and willed effort on the part of the initiate. The ultimate goal of initiation in O.T.O. is "to instruct the individual by allegory and symbol in the profound mysteries of Nature, and thereby to assist each to discover his or her own true Identity."[http://oto-usa.org/init.html]

O.T.O. uses a graded system, similar to that of Freemasonry. There are thirteen numbered degrees and twelve un-numbered. They are divided into three grades or "triads": the Hermit, the Lover, and the Man of Earth. The entire system is as follows:

*'''The Man of Earth Triad'''
**0°—Minerval
**I°—Man & Brother / Woman & Sister
**II°—Magician
**III°—Master Magician
**IV°—Perfect Magician & companion of the Holy Royal Arch of Enoch
**P.I.—Perfect Initiate, or Prince of Jerusalem

*'''Outside all Triads'''
**Knight of the East & West

*'''The Lover Triad'''
**V°—
***Sovereign Prince Rose-Croix, and Knight of the Pelican & Eagle
***Knight of the Red Eagle, and Member of the Senate of Knight Hermetic Philosophers
**VI°—
***Illustrious Knight (Templar) of the Order of Kadosch, and Companion of the Holy Graal
***Grand Inquisitor Commander, and Member of the Grand Tribunal
***Prince of the Royal Secret
**VII°—
***Theoreticus, and Very Illustrious Sovereign Grand Inspector General
***Magus of Light, and Bishop of Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica
***Grandmaster of Light, and Inspector of Rites & Degrees

*'''The Hermit Triad'''
**VIII°—
***Perfect Pontiff of the Illuminati
***Epopt of the Illuminati
**IX°—Initiate of the Sanctuary of the Gnosis
**X°—Rex Summus Sanctissimus
**XI°—Initiate of the Eleventh Degree (This degree is technical, and has no relation to the general plan of the Order)
**XII°—Frater Superior, [[Caliph]], and Outer Head of the Order

===The Gnostic Catholic Church===

The '''[[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]]''', or Gnostic Catholic Church, is the ecclesiastical arm of O.T.O. Its cental activity is the celebration of Liber XV, [[the Gnostic Mass]]. In recent years, other rites have been written and approved for use within the church. These include Baptism, Confirmation (into the Laity), and Ordination (for Deacons, Priests & Priestesses, and Bishops), and Last Rites. There are also several "unofficial" rituals that are celebrated within the context of E.G.C., including Weddings, Visitation and Administration of the Virtues to the Sick, [[Exorcism]], and Rites for [[Life]] and [[Greater Feast]]s. Clergy in local sanctuaries can also choose to celebrate original rituals, such as "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/liturgy93.htm Liturgy 93]" or the "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/xquart.htm Feasts of the Cross-Quarters]."

See also: [[E.G.C. Ceremonies]]

====Membership in E.G.C.====

#'''The Clergy'''
#*'''The Father/Mother of the Church''' (The Patriarch or Matriarch)
#*'''The Primate''' (or Presiding Bishop, and is the National Grand Master General)
#*'''Bishops''' (The Episcopate)
#*'''Priests & Priestesses''' (The Priesthood)
#*'''Deacons''' (The Diaconate)
#*'''Novices''' (The Novitiate)
#'''Lay members''' (The Laity)
#'''Bishops in Amity''' (Advisory membership)

===Cultural Events===

Other than initiations and ecclesiastical work, there are many activities that O.T.O. members can engage in. The U.S. Grand Lodge has hosted national conferences since 2000. On the local level, bodies host a wide range of events, including ritual theatre, classes & workshops, original rituals, publication of journals and books, creation of a web presence, study groups, and informal social gatherings. Some lodges have hosted smaller conferences on topics such as business aspects of O.T.O., women in Thelema, and other subjects of interest.

==Structure==

The Structure of O.T.O. is outlined in several historical documents, principally the ''Constitution of O.T.O.'' (1906, revised 1917), the ''Constitution of M.'.M.'.M.'.'' (1913), and ''Liber 194: An Intimation With Reference to the Constitution of the Order'' (1919).

The governing bodies of O.T.O. include:

#'''International Headquarters'''
#*Presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' XII° (OHO—also known as Frater Superior)
#*'''Supreme Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' of the IX°
#*The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' of the VIII°
#'''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges'''
#*Presided over by a '''National Grand Master''' X°
#*'''Executive Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Supreme Grand Council'''
#*The '''Grand Tribunal''' of the VI°
#*The '''Electoral College '''

===International===

1. '''International Headquarters''' (IHQ) is the body that governs O.T.O. worldwide. IHQ is presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' (OHO—also known as Frater Superior), who possesses the XII°. Since the time of [[Grady McMurtry]], the office of Outer Head of the Order has been associated with the title of [[Caliph]].

2. IHQ is administered by the International '''Supreme Council''', which consists of the Outer Head of the Order, the Secretary General, and the Treasurer General.

3. The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' consists of members who have reached the IX°. Their prime duty is to study and practice the theurgy and thaumaturgy of the degree, consisting of the Supreme Secret of the Order. The Sovereign Sanctuary is not technically a governing body, however, as a collective, it has the authority to:
*ratify and overturn the rulings of the Areopagus
*act as representitives of the OHO and National Grand Masters when need arises
*fill the office of Revolutionary
*vote within the Secret Areopagus
*have some powers over the installation and removal of the OHO and National Grand Masters

4. The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' is a philosophical Governing Body comprised of those who have reached the VIII°. It has the authority to reverse the decisions of the Grand Tribunal. It’s duties are:
*compose and resolve all conflicts between any of the governing bodies of the Order
*Draft and approve all Amendments to the Bylaws of the Order
*Resolve disputes between the various Guilds

5. In addition to the above-listed bodies, IHQ includes a number of administrative offices including:
*Revolutionaries (2)
*International Initiation Secretary
*EGC Secretary
*Quartermasters for Asia and Europe
*Rights & Permissions for the Estate of Aleister Crowley
*International Archivist

The International Headquarters of O.T.O. is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious corporation under the name '''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Supreme Council.

===National===

1. International Headquarters has the power to charter '''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges''', with their own Officers and Administrative and Governing Bodies, in countries that have developed an organization large enough to support independent operations. Each Grand Lodge is presided over by a '''National Grand Master General''', who possesses the Tenth Degree (X°).

2. A Grand Lodge is administered by an '''Executive Council''', or '''Executive,''' which consists of the National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General.

3. The '''Supreme Grand Council''' consists of nine members of the VII° appointed by the National Grand Master General. It is charged with:
*the government of the whole of the Lovers Grade
*Hearing and deciding appeals of the decisions of the Electoral College
*Hearing reports of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General VII° as to the affairs of the Initiate members of the Lovers Grade

The National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General are ''ex officio'' members of the Supreme Grand Council, and consititute its Executive Committee.

4. The '''Grand Tribunal''' is composed of members of the degree of Grand Inquisitor Commander (a sub-degree of the VI°). Their primary duty is to hear and arbitrate disputes and complains not resolved at the level of Chapters and Lodges. They may also grant exemption from any consequences within O.T.O. for pursuing a civil case. They may also rule in cases of abuse of authority and membership privileges. The Grand Tribunal is technically a Governing Body at the National level, due to the degree of its members. However, even members of higher grades are subject to the decisions of the Grand Tribunal.

5. The '''Electoral College''' consists of eleven members of the V° appointed by the National Grand Master General. Its primary duty is to oversee the affairs of the Man of Earth Grade. It has the authority to:
*appoint and remove Camp, Oasis, and Lodge Masters
*authorize invitations for initiate members to take the V° and enter the Lover Grade
*give full hearings to reports from initiate members of the degree of Sovereign Grand Inspector General VII° as to the condition of affairs of the members of the Man of Earth Triad

====Current Grand Lodges====

The '''U.S. Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United States of America. The U.S. National Grand Master General is Fr. Sabazius X°, who was appointed on 30 March 1996. The U.S. Grand Lodge is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious organization named '''Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A.''' (O.T.O. U.S.A.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Executive.

The '''UK Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United Kingdom. The U.K. National Grand Master General is Fr. Hyperion X°, who was appointed on 1 May 2005 (93 years after the last Grand Master for the UK, Aleister Crowley, was elevated to that office).

The '''Australia Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in Australia. The Australia National Grand Master General is Fr. Shiva X°, who was appointed on 15 April, 2006.

===O.T.O. Bodies===

At the Man of Earth level, there are three levels of Local Body, which are Camps, Oases, and Lodges.

1. '''Camps''' tend to be the smallest and are not required to perform intiations. They are encouraged to celebrate the Gnostic Mass.

2. '''Oases''' are the next largest, and should be able to initiate through the III°.

3. '''Lodges''' are the largest local body within the Man of Earth Grade, and are expected to celebrate the Gnostic Mass on a regular basis, work towards establishing a permenant temple, and have the ability to initiate through IV°/P.I.

'''Chapters of Rose Croix''' are bodies established by members of the Lover Grade. A Chapter is headed by a Most Wise Sovereign and a High Priestess. They are generally charged with arranging social activities, such as plays, banquets, and dances. They also work to promote harmony among the members by tact and friendliness.

'''Guilds''' are groups recognized by IHQ that are designed to promote a profession, trade, science or craft. Subject to approval by the Areopagus, they make their own regulations and coordinate their own efforts. There are currently three Guilds recognized by the Areopagus: the Psychology Guild, the Translators' Guild, and the Information Technology Guild.

The term '''Sanctuary''' is sometimes used to indicate a group of initiates organized for E.G.C. activities. This designation currently reflects no formal chartering process or official standing within the Order.

==History==

The founding of Ordo Templi Orientis began with a wealthy paper chemist, [[Carl Kellner]] (1851-1905). A student of the occult and familiar with several modern secret organizations, he had come to believe that he had discovered a “Key” to the symbolism of Freemasonry and to the Mysteries of Nature itself. He then aspired to create an ''[[Academia Masonica]]'' that would unifiy the various systems of Masonry. Kellner, along with an associate, [[Theodor Reuss]] (1855-1923), decided to call it the ''Oriental Templar Order.'' In 1902, Reuss, along with Franz Hartmann and Henry Klein, purchased the right to perform the Scottish, Memphis and Mizraim rites of Freemasonry, the authority of which was confirmed in 1904 and again in 1905. These rites, along with the Swedenborgian Rite, formed the core of the newly established Order. When Kellner died in 1905, Reuss assumed full control, becoming the first Outer Head of the Order.

Ruess met Aleister Crowley and in 1910 admitted him to the three degrees of O.T.O. Only two years later Crowley was placed in charge of Great Britain and Ireland, and advanced to the X°. The appointment included the operation of the Masonic degrees of O.T.O., which were called ''Mysteria Mystica Maxima''. Within the year Crowley had written the Manifesto of the M.'.M.'.M.'. which described the basic ten-degree system—which was still principally Masonic—with Kellner’s three degree ''Academia Masonica'' forming the VII°, VIII° and IX°.

In 1913, Crowley composed the Gnostic Mass while in Moscow, which he described as being the Order’s “central ceremony of its public and private celebration.” In 1914, soon after World War I broke out, he moved to America. It was around this time that he decided to integrate Thelema into the O.T.O. system, and in 1915 had revised rituals prepared for use in his M.'.M.'.M.'.. He revised them again in 1918, and in so doing removed the ritual's ties to Masonry.

In 1921, Reuss issued a charter to [[Charles Stansfeld Jones]] as X° for the U.S. The very next year, Crowley proclaimed himself as Outer Head of the Order of O.T.O. based on the claim that Reuss (who might have suffered a stroke) had become incapable of running the Order. Reuss died in 1923.

In 1933, Agape Lodge #2 was formed in Los Angeles, California under the leadership of [[Wilfred Talbot Smith]] (1885-1957). He and [[Regina Kahl]] celebrated the first public performance of the Gnostic Mass. Smith was advanced to the X° for the U.S. in 1935. Soon after, the Lodge moved to Pasadena where it was run by [[Jack Parsons]] (1914-1952), a founder of the JPL.

During WWII, the European branches of O.T.O. were either destroyed or driven underground. By the end of the war, the only surviving O.T.O. body was Agapé Lodge, although there were various initiates in different countries. Very few initiations were being performed. At this time, [[Karl Germer]], who had been Crowley’s representitive in Germany, came over to America after being released from Nazi confinement. In 1942, Crowley appointed him as his successor as OHO.

In that same year, Crowley personally conferred the IX° to [[Grady McMurtry]] (1918-1985), a member of Agapé Lodge. It was then that he assumed his new Magical Name, ''Hymenaeus Alpha''. McMurtry received several letters from Crowley in 1944 stating his desire to have McMurtry assume the role of [[Caliph]] and to be in line for succession to OHO. In 1946, McMurtry was entrusted with documents of emergency authorization to operate O.T.O. within California (the location of the only operational Lodge), along with the appointment of being Crowley’s personal representitive within the U.S., second only to Germer.

Crowley died on December 1, 1947 and Karl Germer became OHO. He served from 1947 until his death in 1962. During his time as OHO, O.T.O. activity came to a standstill, with no new initiations being performed. An O.T.O. camp was chartered in England to [[Kenneth Grant]], but he was expelled in 1955 for modifying the initiation rituals and claiming that the body was under joint leadership with another organization, ''[[Fraternitas Saturni]].''

Germer died in 1962 without himself naming a successor. In 1969, Grady McMurtry invoked his emergency authorization from Crowley and assumed the title of [[Caliph]], which Crowley had granted him. He began performing intiations in 1970. Growth was very slow for the first few years, although McMurtry did pick up on the publishing front, such as issuing Crowely’s ''[[Tarot|Thoth Tarot]]'' deck. Grady McMurtry died in 1985.

McMurtry requested that members of the Sovereign Sanctuary elect the next OHO, which they did in 1985. Frater [[Hymenaeus Beta]] was elected to become the next OHO and he continues in that office today. In 1996, [[Sabazius]] X° was appointed as National Grand Master General for the U.S. Grand Lodge. Since McMurtry's time, O.T.O. has greatly expanded its publishing activities, initiated thousands of men and women into its ranks, and become an international organization with groups in dozens of countries around the world.

==Legalities==

*1976: the Superior Court in Calaveras County, California recognizes Grady McMurtry as the authorized representative of O.T.O.
*1979: O.T.O. is incorporated under the laws of the State of California
*1982: The corporation attains Federal Tax exemption as a religious entity under IRS Code 501(c)3
*1985: in the 9th Federal District Court in San Francisco, McMurtry is found to be the legitimate head of O.T.O. within the United States, and that O.T.O. under McMurtry is the continuation of the O.T.O. of Aleister Crowley, and the exclusive owner of the names, trademarks, copyrights and other assets of O.T.O. This decision is appealed and upheld.
*1996: The existing corporation reorganizes as International Headquarters of O.T.O. and a new corporation is founded for U.S. Grand Lodge.
*2002: The United Kingdom High Court finds that O.T.O. is the sole owner of the copyrights for all of the works of Aleister Crowley.

==Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy==

One of the dramatic aspects of Ordo Templi Orientis is the continuing issue of legitimacy. Over the years, several individuals and groups have claimed the title of OHO or to be the ‘true’ O.T.O.

*'''[[Hermann Metzger]]''', who had been a member of the early Swiss O.T.O. under Reuss, made the claim soon after Germer’s death in 1962. Supposedly there had been an election there which appointed him OHO. However, it was later shown that Germer had not considered Metzger a regularized member of O.T.O. as it had developed under Crowley. No one recognized his claim outside of his own group. Metzger died in 1990.

*'''[[Kenneth Grant]]''', who had been expelled from O.T.O. in 1955, also made the claim to OHO after Germer’s passing. Grant does not provide any factual basis or evidence for his claim except to say he had a correspondence with Crowley, that Germer had never actually been OHO, and that McMurtry was not the legitimate OHO. He calls his ogranization ''Ordo Templi Orientis;'' others call it the [[Typhonian O.T.O.]]

*'''[[Marcelo Ramos Motta]]''' tried to assume control of the Order under the name "[[Society Ordo Templi Orientis]]." His claim was based on his story that Germer’s wife, Sasha, told him that Karl’s last words stated that Motta was “the follower.” Although Motta had been an [[A.'.A.'.]] student under Germer, he had never actually been initiated into O.T.O. He also sued for ownership of Crowley’s copyrights, which were denied to him by the U.S. District Court in Maine. Motta died in 1987, although various small groups calling themselves S.O.T.O. continue to exist.

Other groups that have made use of the O.T.O. name are:

*'''Albion O.T.O.''', located in London, England, which claims to unify all the different “branches” of O.T.O. [http://www.uk-oto.org/oto_main.htm]

*The '''Parzival XI° O.T.O. Foundation''', which claims to support and legitimize Motta’s Society O.T.O. [http://members.ozemail.com.au/~realoto/pf.html]

*'''Ur-O.T.O.''', whose main goals are to “manifest A.M.I.C.I.T.I.A. (Amity, Magia, Inspiration, Companionship, Inclusion, Truth, Individuality, Agape) and to make this a living power in the Life of all Beings.” [http://members.aol.com/UROTO/index.html]

==Links of Interest==

*[http://oto-usa.org/ O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/main.html The Invisible Basilica of Sabazius]—site of the current Grand Master of U.S. Grand Lodge
*[http://www.ashami.com/eidolons/Main_Page Eidolons of Ash]—includes OTO-related original essays and seminal texts

Ordo Templi Orientis

2009-07-22T14:48:54Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Current Grand Lodges */ Added Australia!

'''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.) can be translated as ''Order of Oriental Templars,'' or ''Order of the Temple of the East.'' It is a secret, fraternal organization similar to that of [[Freemasonry]], with a series of graded [[Initiation|initations]]. For its teachings and principles of organization, it has accepted the Law of [[Thelema]], which is expressed as “Do what thou wilt.” Thelemites believe that this Law was established with the writing of [[the Book of the Law]] by [[Aleister Crowley]] in 1904 in Cairo, Egypt.
 

==Philosophy & Goals==

According to Crowley, O.T.O. is "the first of the great religious Societies to accept the Law." The rituals of O.T.O. have been entirely revised by Crowley and his successors in light of the Law of Thelema. Both within its private ceremonies and in the world at large, the Order seeks to promote the Law as the ultimate standard of human conduct and understanding.

O.T.O. was also designated as the Crowley estate, and maintains possession of Crowley's intellectual property and literary remains. As the custodian of these materials, the Order seeks to make them available to the public in definitive editions.

Even before accepting the Law, the Sovereign Sanctuary of the O.T.O. was a body that maintained a Supreme Secret, which is said to be of inestimable magical power. This secret still reposes in the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Ninth Degree, and its nature is indicated gradually by hints in the initiatory ceremonies of the Order.

In common with Freemasonry, the [[Theosophical Society]], and many other esoteric bodies, O.T.O. espouses an ethic of [[Universal Brotherhood]].

Of the entire system of O.T.O., Crowley wrote in ''Confessions:''

:It offers a rational basis for universal brotherhood and for universal religion. It puts forward a scientific statement which is a summary of all that is at present known about the universe by means of a simple, yet sublime symbolism, artistically arranged. It also enables each man to discover for himself his personal destiny, indicates the moral and intellectual qualities which he requires in order to fulfil it freely, and finally puts in his hands an unimaginably powerful weapon which he may use to develop in himself every faculty which he may need in his work.

The mission of O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge, which can largely be applied to the Order as a whole:

:Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A. is the U.S. Grand Lodge (National Section) of Ordo Templi Orientis, a hierarchical, religious membership organization. Our mission is to effect and promote the doctrines and practices of the philosophical and religious system known as Thelema, with particular emphasis on cultivating the ideals of individual liberty, self-discipline, self-knowledge, and universal brotherhood. To this end, we conduct sacramental and initiatory rites, offer guidance and instruction to our members, organize social events, and engage in educational and community service activities at locations throughout the United States.

==Activities==

O.T.O. has two core areas of ritual activity: initiation into the [[Mystery|Mysteries]], and the celebration of Liber XV, the [[The Gnostic Mass|Gnostic Mass]]. In addition, the Order organizes lectures, classes, social events, theatrical productions and artistic exhibitions, and publishes books, journals, and newsletters.

===Initiation===

Within O.T.O., the process of initiation is unlike that of many college fraternities or the military, the goal of which is to bond the individual to the group by means of ego-collapse, often via methods of pain, exhaustion, and degredation. Within O.T.O., the rituals are designed to be challenging, but in a way that honors the candidate. If bonding does occur, it does so through a conscious and willed effort on the part of the initiate. The ultimate goal of initiation in O.T.O. is "to instruct the individual by allegory and symbol in the profound mysteries of Nature, and thereby to assist each to discover his or her own true Identity."[http://oto-usa.org/init.html]

O.T.O. uses a graded system, similar to that of Freemasonry. There are thirteen numbered degrees and twelve un-numbered. They are divided into three grades or "triads": the Hermit, the Lover, and the Man of Earth. The entire system is as follows:

*'''The Man of Earth Triad'''
**0°—Minerval
**I°—Man & Brother / Woman & Sister
**II°—Magician
**III°—Master Magician
**IV°—Perfect Magician & companion of the Holy Royal Arch of Enoch
**P.I.—Perfect Initiate, or Prince of Jerusalem

*'''Outside all Triads'''
**Knight of the East & West

*'''The Lover Triad'''
**V°—
***Sovereign Prince Rose-Croix, and Knight of the Pelican & Eagle
***Knight of the Red Eagle, and Member of the Senate of Knight Hermetic Philosophers
**VI°—
***Illustrious Knight (Templar) of the Order of Kadosch, and Companion of the Holy Graal
***Grand Inquisitor Commander, and Member of the Grand Tribunal
***Prince of the Royal Secret
**VII°—
***Theoreticus, and Very Illustrious Sovereign Grand Inspector General
***Magus of Light, and Bishop of Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica
***Grandmaster of Light, and Inspector of Rites & Degrees

*'''The Hermit Triad'''
**VIII°—
***Perfect Pontiff of the Illuminati
***Epopt of the Illuminati
**IX°—Initiate of the Sanctuary of the Gnosis
**X°—Rex Summus Sanctissimus
**XI°—Initiate of the Eleventh Degree (This degree is technical, and has no relation to the general plan of the Order)
**XII°—Frater Superior, [[Caliph]], and Outer Head of the Order

===The Gnostic Catholic Church===

The '''[[Ecclesia Gnostica Catholica]]''', or Gnostic Catholic Church, is the ecclesiastical arm of O.T.O. Its cental activity is the celebration of Liber XV, [[the Gnostic Mass]]. In recent years, other rites have been written and approved for use within the church. These include Baptism, Confirmation (into the Laity), and Ordination (for Deacons, Priests & Priestesses, and Bishops), and Last Rites. There are also several "unofficial" rituals that are celebrated within the context of E.G.C., including Weddings, Visitation and Administration of the Virtues to the Sick, [[Exorcism]], and Rites for [[Life]] and [[Greater Feast]]s. Clergy in local sanctuaries can also choose to celebrate original rituals, such as "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/liturgy93.htm Liturgy 93]" or the "[http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/xquart.htm Feasts of the Cross-Quarters]."

See also: [[E.G.C. Ceremonies]]

====Membership in E.G.C.====

#'''The Clergy'''
#*'''The Father/Mother of the Church''' (The Patriarch or Matriarch)
#*'''The Primate''' (or Presiding Bishop, and is the National Grand Master General)
#*'''Bishops''' (The Episcopate)
#*'''Priests & Priestesses''' (The Priesthood)
#*'''Deacons''' (The Diaconate)
#*'''Novices''' (The Novitiate)
#'''Lay members''' (The Laity)
#'''Bishops in Amity''' (Advisory membership)

===Cultural Events===

Other than initiations and ecclesiastical work, there are many activities that O.T.O. members can engage in. The U.S. Grand Lodge has hosted national conferences since 2000. On the local level, bodies host a wide range of events, including ritual theatre, classes & workshops, original rituals, publication of journals and books, creation of a web presence, study groups, and informal social gatherings. Some lodges have hosted smaller conferences on topics such as business aspects of O.T.O., women in Thelema, and other subjects of interest.

==Structure==

The Structure of O.T.O. is outlined in several historical documents, principally the ''Constitution of O.T.O.'' (1906, revised 1917), the ''Constitution of M.'.M.'.M.'.'' (1913), and ''Liber 194: An Intimation With Reference to the Constitution of the Order'' (1919).

The governing bodies of O.T.O. include:

#'''International Headquarters'''
#*Presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' XII° (OHO—also known as Frater Superior)
#*'''Supreme Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' of the IX°
#*The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' of the VIII°
#'''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges'''
#*Presided over by a '''National Grand Master''' X°
#*'''Executive Council''' (Administrative Body)
#*The '''Supreme Grand Council'''
#*The '''Grand Tribunal''' of the VI°
#*The '''Electoral College '''

===International===

1. '''International Headquarters''' (IHQ) is the body that governs O.T.O. worldwide. IHQ is presided over by the '''Outer Head of the Order''' (OHO—also known as Frater Superior), who possesses the XII°. Since the time of [[Grady McMurtry]], the office of Outer Head of the Order has been associated with the title of [[Caliph]].

2. IHQ is administered by the International '''Supreme Council''', which consists of the Outer Head of the Order, the Secretary General, and the Treasurer General.

3. The '''Sovereign Sanctuary of the Gnosis''' consists of members who have reached the IX°. Their prime duty is to study and practice the theurgy and thaumaturgy of the degree, consisting of the Supreme Secret of the Order. The Sovereign Sanctuary is not technically a governing body, however, as a collective, it has the authority to:
*ratify and overturn the rulings of the Areopagus
*act as representitives of the OHO and National Grand Masters when need arises
*fill the office of Revolutionary
*vote within the Secret Areopagus
*have some powers over the installation and removal of the OHO and National Grand Masters

4. The '''Secret Areopagus of the Illuminati''' is a philosophical Governing Body comprised of those who have reached the VIII°. It has the authority to reverse the decisions of the Grand Tribunal. It’s duties are:
*compose and resolve all conflicts between any of the governing bodies of the Order
*Draft and approve all Amendments to the Bylaws of the Order
*Resolve disputes between the various Guilds

5. In addition to the above-listed bodies, IHQ includes a number of administrative offices including:
*Revolutionaries (2)
*International Initiation Secretary
*EGC Secretary
*Quartermasters for Asia and Europe
*Rights & Permissions for the Estate of Aleister Crowley
*International Archivist

The International Headquarters of O.T.O. is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious corporation under the name '''Ordo Templi Orientis''' (O.T.O.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Supreme Council.

===National===

1. International Headquarters has the power to charter '''National Sections''' or '''Grand Lodges''', with their own Officers and Administrative and Governing Bodies, in countries that have developed an organization large enough to support independent operations. Each Grand Lodge is presided over by a '''National Grand Master General''', who possesses the Tenth Degree (X°).

2. A Grand Lodge is administered by an '''Executive Council''', or '''Executive,''' which consists of the National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General.

3. The '''Supreme Grand Council''' consists of nine members of the VII° appointed by the National Grand Master General. It is charged with:
*the government of the whole of the Lovers Grade
*Hearing and deciding appeals of the decisions of the Electoral College
*Hearing reports of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General VII° as to the affairs of the Initiate members of the Lovers Grade

The National Grand Master General, the Grand Secretary General, and the Grand Treasurer General are ''ex officio'' members of the Supreme Grand Council, and consititute its Executive Committee.

4. The '''Grand Tribunal''' is composed of members of the degree of Grand Inquisitor Commander (a sub-degree of the VI°). Their primary duty is to hear and arbitrate disputes and complains not resolved at the level of Chapters and Lodges. They may also grant exemption from any consequences within O.T.O. for pursuing a civil case. They may also rule in cases of abuse of authority and membership privileges. The Grand Tribunal is technically a Governing Body at the National level, due to the degree of its members. However, even members of higher grades are subject to the decisions of the Grand Tribunal.

5. The '''Electoral College''' consists of eleven members of the V° appointed by the National Grand Master General. Its primary duty is to oversee the affairs of the Man of Earth Grade. It has the authority to:
*appoint and remove Camp, Oasis, and Lodge Masters
*authorize invitations for initiate members to take the V° and enter the Lover Grade
*give full hearings to reports from initiate members of the degree of Sovereign Grand Inspector General VII° as to the condition of affairs of the members of the Man of Earth Triad

====Current Grand Lodges====

The '''U.S. Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United States of America. The U.S. National Grand Master General is Fr. Sabazius X°, who was appointed on 30 March 1996. The U.S. Grand Lodge is incorporated in California as a non-profit, tax-exempt, religious organization named '''Ordo Templi Orientis U.S.A.''' (O.T.O. U.S.A.). The Board of Directors of O.T.O. U.S.A. is constituted by the Executive.

The '''UK Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in the United Kingdom. The U.K. National Grand Master General is Fr. Hyperion X°, who was appointed on 1 May 2005 (93 years after the last Grand Master for the UK, Aleister Crowley, was elevated to that office).

The '''Australia Grand Lodge''' is the National Section of O.T.O. in Australia. The Australia National Grand Master General is Fr. Shiva X°, who was appointed on 15 April, 2006.

===O.T.O. Bodies===

At the Man of Earth level, there are three levels of Local Body, which are Camps, Oases, and Lodges.

1. '''Camps''' tend to be the smallest and are not required to perform intiations. They are encouraged to celebrate the Gnostic Mass.

2. '''Oases''' are the next largest, and should be able to initiate through the III°.

3. '''Lodges''' are the largest local body within the Man of Earth Grade, and are expected to celebrate the Gnostic Mass on a regular basis, work towards establishing a permenant temple, and have the ability to initiate through IV°/P.I.

'''Chapters of Rose Croix''' are bodies established by members of the Lover Grade. A Chapter is headed by a Most Wise Sovereign and a High Priestess. They are generally charged with arranging social activities, such as plays, banquets, and dances. They also work to promote harmony among the members by tact and friendliness.

'''Guilds''' are groups recognized by IHQ that are designed to promote a profession, trade, science or craft. Subject to approval by the Areopagus, they make their own regulations and coordinate their own efforts. There are currently three Guilds recognized by the Areopagus: the Psychology Guild, the Translators' Guild, and the Information Technology Guild.

The term '''Sanctuary''' is sometimes used to indicate a group of initiates organized for E.G.C. activities. This designation currently reflects no formal chartering process or official standing within the Order.

==History==

The founding of Ordo Templi Orientis began with a wealthy paper chemist, [[Carl Kellner]] (1851-1905). A student of the occult and familiar with several modern secret organizations, he had come to believe that he had discovered a “Key” to the symbolism of Freemasonry and to the Mysteries of Nature itself. He then aspired to create an ''[[Academia Masonica]]'' that would unifiy the various systems of Masonry. Kellner, along with an associate, [[Theodor Reuss]] (1855-1923), decided to call it the ''Oriental Templar Order.'' In 1902, Reuss, along with Franz Hartmann and Henry Klein, purchased the right to perform the Scottish, Memphis and Mizraim rites of Freemasonry, the authority of which was confirmed in 1904 and again in 1905. These rites, along with the Swedenborgian Rite, formed the core of the newly established Order. When Kellner died in 1905, Reuss assumed full control, becoming the first Outer Head of the Order.

Ruess met Aleister Crowley and in 1910 admitted him to the three degrees of O.T.O. Only two years later Crowley was placed in charge of Great Britain and Ireland, and advanced to the X°. The appointment included the operation of the Masonic degrees of O.T.O., which were called ''Mysteria Mystica Maxima''. Within the year Crowley had written the Manifesto of the M.'.M.'.M.'. which described the basic ten-degree system—which was still principally Masonic—with Kellner’s three degree ''Academia Masonica'' forming the VII°, VIII° and IX°.

In 1913, Crowley composed the Gnostic Mass while in Moscow, which he described as being the Order’s “central ceremony of its public and private celebration.” In 1914, soon after World War I broke out, he moved to America. It was around this time that he decided to integrate Thelema into the O.T.O. system, and in 1915 had revised rituals prepared for use in his M.'.M.'.M.'.. He revised them again in 1918, and in so doing removed the ritual's ties to Masonry.

In 1921, Reuss issued a charter to [[Charles Stansfeld Jones]] as X° for the U.S. The very next year, Crowley proclaimed himself as Outer Head of the Order of O.T.O. based on the claim that Reuss (who might have suffered a stroke) had become incapable of running the Order. Reuss died in 1923.

In 1933, Agape Lodge #2 was formed in Los Angeles, California under the leadership of [[Wilfred Talbot Smith]] (1885-1957). He and [[Regina Kahl]] celebrated the first public performance of the Gnostic Mass. Smith was advanced to the X° for the U.S. in 1935. Soon after, the Lodge moved to Pasadena where it was run by [[Jack Parsons]] (1914-1952), a founder of the JPL.

During WWII, the European branches of O.T.O. were either destroyed or driven underground. By the end of the war, the only surviving O.T.O. body was Agapé Lodge, although there were various initiates in different countries. Very few initiations were being performed. At this time, [[Karl Germer]], who had been Crowley’s representitive in Germany, came over to America after being released from Nazi confinement. In 1942, Crowley appointed him as his successor as OHO.

In that same year, Crowley personally conferred the IX° to [[Grady McMurtry]] (1918-1985), a member of Agapé Lodge. It was then that he assumed his new Magical Name, ''Hymenaeus Alpha''. McMurtry received several letters from Crowley in 1944 stating his desire to have McMurtry assume the role of [[Caliph]] and to be in line for succession to OHO. In 1946, McMurtry was entrusted with documents of emergency authorization to operate O.T.O. within California (the location of the only operational Lodge), along with the appointment of being Crowley’s personal representitive within the U.S., second only to Germer.

Crowley died on December 1, 1947 and Karl Germer became OHO. He served from 1947 until his death in 1962. During his time as OHO, O.T.O. activity came to a standstill, with no new initiations being performed. An O.T.O. camp was chartered in England to [[Kenneth Grant]], but he was expelled in 1955 for modifying the initiation rituals and claiming that the body was under joint leadership with another organization, ''[[Fraternitas Saturni]].''

Germer died in 1962 without himself naming a successor. In 1969, Grady McMurtry invoked his emergency authorization from Crowley and assumed the title of [[Caliph]], which Crowley had granted him. He began performing intiations in 1970. Growth was very slow for the first few years, although McMurtry did pick up on the publishing front, such as issuing Crowely’s ''[[Tarot|Thoth Tarot]]'' deck. Grady McMurtry died in 1985.

McMurtry requested that members of the Sovereign Sanctuary elect the next OHO, which they did in 1985. Frater [[Hymenaeus Beta]] was elected to become the next OHO and he continues in that office today. In 1996, [[Sabazius]] X° was appointed as National Grand Master General for the U.S. Grand Lodge. Since McMurtry's time, O.T.O. has greatly expanded its publishing activities, initiated thousands of men and women into its ranks, and become an international organization with groups in dozens of countries around the world.

==Legalities==

*1976: the Superior Court in Calaveras County, California recognizes Grady McMurtry as the authorized representative of O.T.O.
*1979: O.T.O. is incorporated under the laws of the State of California
*1982: The corporation attains Federal Tax exemption as a religious entity under IRS Code 501(c)3
*1985: in the 9th Federal District Court in San Francisco, McMurtry is found to be the legitimate head of O.T.O. within the United States, and that O.T.O. under McMurtry is the continuation of the O.T.O. of Aleister Crowley, and the exclusive owner of the names, trademarks, copyrights and other assets of O.T.O. This decision is appealed and upheld.
*1996: The existing corporation reorganizes as International Headquarters of O.T.O. and a new corporation is founded for U.S. Grand Lodge.
*2002: The United Kingdom High Court finds that O.T.O. is the sole owner of the copyrights for all of the works of Aleister Crowley.

==Challenges to Leadership & Legitimacy==

One of the dramatic aspects of Ordo Templi Orientis is the continuing issue of legitimacy. Over the years, several individuals and groups have claimed the title of OHO or to be the ‘true’ O.T.O.

*'''[[Hermann Metzger]]''', who had been a member of the early Swiss O.T.O. under Reuss, made the claim soon after Germer’s death in 1962. Supposedly there had been an election there which appointed him OHO. However, it was later shown that Germer had not considered Metzger a regularized member of O.T.O. as it had developed under Crowley. No one recognized his claim outside of his own group. Metzger died in 1990.

*'''[[Kenneth Grant]]''', who had been expelled from O.T.O. in 1955, also made the claim to OHO after Germer’s passing. Grant does not provide any factual basis or evidence for his claim except to say he had a correspondence with Crowley, that Germer had never actually been OHO, and that McMurtry was not the legitimate OHO. He calls his ogranization ''Ordo Templi Orientis;'' others call it the [[Typhonian O.T.O.]]

*'''[[Marcelo Ramos Motta]]''' tried to assume control of the Order under the name "[[Society Ordo Templi Orientis]]." His claim was based on his story that Germer’s wife, Sasha, told him that Karl’s last words stated that Motta was “the follower.” Although Motta had been an [[A.'.A.'.]] student under Germer, he had never actually been initiated into O.T.O. He also sued for ownership of Crowley’s copyrights, which were denied to him by the U.S. District Court in Maine. Motta died in 1987, although various small groups calling themselves S.O.T.O. continue to exist.

Other groups that make use of the O.T.O. name are:

*'''Albion O.T.O.''', located in London, England, which claims to unify all the different “branches” of O.T.O. [http://www.uk-oto.org/oto_main.htm]

*The '''Parzival XI° O.T.O. Foundation''', which claims to support and legitimize Motta’s Society O.T.O. [http://members.ozemail.com.au/~realoto/pf.html]

*'''Ur-O.T.O.''', whose main goals are to “manifest A.M.I.C.I.T.I.A. (Amity, Magia, Inspiration, Companionship, Inclusion, Truth, Individuality, Agape) and to make this a living power in the Life of all Beings.” [http://members.aol.com/UROTO/index.html]

==Links of Interest==

*[http://oto-usa.org/ O.T.O. U.S. Grand Lodge]
*[http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/main.html The Invisible Basilica of Sabazius]—site of the current Grand Master of U.S. Grand Lodge
*[http://www.ashami.com/eidolons/Main_Page Eidolons of Ash]—includes OTO-related original essays and seminal texts

Local bodies

2009-07-22T14:31:58Z

Paradoxosalpha: Documented Star Sapphire Lodge consolidation

==List of O.T.O. bodies in the United States of America==

*418 Lodge (Sacramento, California)
*93 Lodge (Costa Mesa, California)
*Ad Astra Oasis (Denver, Colorado)
*[[Aum. Ha. Oasis]] (Chicago, Illinois)
*Black Sun Oasis (Akron, Ohio)
*Blazing Star Oasis (Berkeley, California)
*Blue Equinox Oasis (Royal Oak, Michigan)
*Blue Horizon Oasis (Glendale, California)
**Merged into Star Sapphire Lodge, 2009
*Bubastis Camp (Carollton, Texas)
*Camp of the Golden Lotus (Mission Viejo, California)
*Coph Nia Lodge (Eugene, Oregon)
*Dove and Serpent Oasis (Atlanta, Georgia)
*Heru-Behetut Oasis (Kansas City, Kansas)
*Heru-Ra-Ha Lodge (Newport Beach, California)
*Hoor-Paar-Kraat Oasis (Ogden, Utah)
*Horizon Oasis (Seattle, Washington)
*Horus Oasis (Salt Lake City, Utah)
*Knights Templar Oasis (Salem, Massachussets)
*L.V.X. Oasis (Los Angeles, California)
**Merged into Star Sapphire Lodge, 2009
*Lapis Lazuli Camp (Phoenix, Arizona)
*Laughing Serpent Camp (Bayonne, New Jersey)
*Leaping Laughter Lodge (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
*Mons Abiegnus Oasis (Mons Anselmo, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Nu Aeon Camp (Land O'Lakes, Florida)
*Onnophris Oasis (Indianapolis, Indiana)
*Pyramid Lodge (Buffalo, New York)
*RPSTOVAL Camp (Ashland, Oregon)
*Scarlet Woman Lodge (Austin, Texas)
*Sekhet-Bast-Ra Oasis (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
*Sekhet-Maat Lodge (Portland, Oregon)
*Serpentine Splendour Lodge (Las Vegas, Nevada)
*Seven Spirits Camp (Tucson, Arizona)
*Sirius Camp (Oakland, California)
*Sol Invictus Camp (Fayetteville, Arkansas)
*Star Sapphire Lodge (Los Angeles, California)
*Starry Arch Camp (St. Louis, Missouri)
*Swirling Star Oasis (Miami, Florida)
*Tahuti Lodge (New York, New York)
*Thelema Lodge (Berkeley, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Thelesis Lodge (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
*Therion-Babalon Oasis (Berkeley, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Vortex Camp (Tacoma, Washington)
*William Blake Oasis (Baltimore, Maryland)
*Xanadu Oasis (Reading, Pennsylvania)

==References==
*US Grand Lodge, O.T.O. "US Local Bodies." http://www.oto-usa.org/bodies.html Retrieved 9/19/2005.

Local bodies

2009-07-22T14:28:51Z

Paradoxosalpha: Updated Aum.Ha. to Oasis, and added internal link

==List of O.T.O. bodies in the United States of America==

*418 Lodge (Sacramento, California)
*93 Lodge (Costa Mesa, California)
*Ad Astra Oasis (Denver, Colorado)
*[[Aum. Ha. Oasis]] (Chicago, Illinois)
*Black Sun Oasis (Akron, Ohio)
*Blazing Star Oasis (Berkeley, California)
*Blue Equinox Oasis (Royal Oak, Michigan)
*Blue Horizon Oasis (Glendale, California)
*Bubastis Camp (Carollton, Texas)
*Camp of the Golden Lotus (Mission Viejo, California)
*Coph Nia Lodge (Eugene, Oregon)
*Dove and Serpent Oasis (Atlanta, Georgia)
*Heru-Behetut Oasis (Kansas City, Kansas)
*Heru-Ra-Ha Lodge (Newport Beach, California)
*Hoor-Paar-Kraat Oasis (Ogden, Utah)
*Horizon Oasis (Seattle, Washington)
*Horus Oasis (Salt Lake City, Utah)
*Knights Templar Oasis (Salem, Massachussets)
*L.V.X. Oasis (Los Angeles, California)
*Lapis Lazuli Camp (Phoenix, Arizona)
*Laughing Serpent Camp (Bayonne, New Jersey)
*Leaping Laughter Lodge (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
*Mons Abiegnus Oasis (Mons Anselmo, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Nu Aeon Camp (Land O'Lakes, Florida)
*Onnophris Oasis (Indianapolis, Indiana)
*Pyramid Lodge (Buffalo, New York)
*RPSTOVAL Camp (Ashland, Oregon)
*Scarlet Woman Lodge (Austin, Texas)
*Sekhet-Bast-Ra Oasis (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)
*Sekhet-Maat Lodge (Portland, Oregon)
*Serpentine Splendour Lodge (Las Vegas, Nevada)
*Seven Spirits Camp (Tucson, Arizona)
*Sirius Camp (Oakland, California)
*Sol Invictus Camp (Fayetteville, Arkansas)
*Starry Arch Camp (St. Louis, Missouri)
*Swirling Star Oasis (Miami, Florida)
*Tahuti Lodge (New York, New York)
*Thelema Lodge (Berkeley, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Thelesis Lodge (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
*Therion-Babalon Oasis (Berkeley, California)
**merged into Blazing Star Oasis, January 2009
*Vortex Camp (Tacoma, Washington)
*William Blake Oasis (Baltimore, Maryland)
*Xanadu Oasis (Reading, Pennsylvania)

==References==
*US Grand Lodge, O.T.O. "US Local Bodies." http://www.oto-usa.org/bodies.html Retrieved 9/19/2005.

User:Paradoxosalpha

2009-07-22T14:20:26Z

Paradoxosalpha:

[[Image:Award_udjat.jpg|frame|It is declared that Paradoxosalpha is hereby inducted into the [[Thelemapedia:The Order of Udjat|Order of Udjat]] for outstanding editorial efforts, community spirit, and forwarding the fortunes of Thelemapedia.]]
Quid voles illud fac.

http://hermetic.com/dionysos/dthsunbw.gif

I am Paradoxos Alpha, also known as T Polyphilus. I am a Past Master of Scarlet Woman Lodge OTO in the Valley of Austin, Texas.

For more details about me, see [http://hermetic.com/dionysos/main2.htm my website], and for my present opinions and recent writings, see [http://www.livejournal.com/users/paradoxosalpha/ my blog].

Amor.

Liber Resh

2009-07-22T14:18:50Z

Paradoxosalpha: Added External Links

{{MTP}}

'''Liber Resh vel Helios''', by [[Aleister Crowley]], comprises four daily adorations to the [[Sun]], to be performed at dawn, noon, sunset, and midnight. The general object is to focus the conscious mind on the center of our solar system.

==Quotes==
*"The object of this practice is firstly to remind the aspirant at regular intervals of the Great Work; secondly, to bring him into conscious personal relation with the centre of our system; and thirdly, for advanced students, to make actual magical contact with the spiritual energy of the sun and thus to draw actual force from him." (''Confessions'', p. 673)

*"Particularly useful against the fear of death is the punctual and vigorous performance of Liber Resh. Meditate on the sun in each station: his continuous and even way: the endless circle." (''Magick Without Tears'', Chapter LXIII)

*"The first essential is the dedication of all that one is and all that one has to the Great Work, without reservation of any sort. This must be kept constantly in mind; the way to do this is to practice Liber Resh vel Helios...The important thing is not to forget." (''Magick Without Tears'', Introduction)

=="Resh"==
''Resh'' is a Hebrew letter. It equates to the English "R" and translates as "head." Within the [[Qabalah]], Resh is on the [[Path of Resh|30th Path]] between [[Hod]] and [[Yesod]]. This Path is symbolized by the Sun and the various sun gods, such as Ra, Helios, and Apollo.

==Performance==

Liber Resh was written for members of Crowley's order, the [[A.'.A.'.]]. There are ten grades in this order, and each is assigned a [[Ritual signs|sign]], or bodily posture, generally used for [[meditation]] or ritual purpose. If a member of A.'.A.'. is performing Resh, he or she is to stand in the sign representing their current grade in all four stations. If the adorant is not in A.'.A.'., Crowley gives four signs to be used for each station:
*Dawn: all four L.V.X. Signs (Osiris Slain, Isis Mourning, Typhon, and Osiris Risen)
*Noon: Sign of Fire, Thoum-aesh-neith (4°=7#)
*Sunset: Sign of Air, the God Shu supporting the sky (2°=9#)
*Midnight: Sign of Water, the Goddess Auramoth (3°=8#)

===The text===

0. These are the adorations to be performed by aspirants to the A.'. A.'.

1. Let him greet the Sun at dawn, facing East, giving the sign of his grade. And let him say in a loud voice:

:'''Hail unto Thee who art Ra in Thy rising, even unto Thee who art Ra in Thy strength, who travellest over the Heavens in Thy bark at the Uprising of the Sun. Tahuti standeth in His splendour at the prow, and Ra-Hoor abideth at the helm. Hail unto Thee from the Abodes of Night! '''

2. Also at Noon, let him greet the Sun, facing South, giving the sign of his grade. And let him say in a loud voice:

:'''Hail unto Thee who art Ahathoor in Thy triumphing, even unto Thee who art Ahathoor in Thy beauty, who travellest over the heavens in thy bark at the Mid-course of the Sun. Tahuti standeth in His splendour at the prow, and Ra-Hoor abideth at the helm. Hail unto Thee from the Abodes of Morning!

3. Also, at Sunset, let him greet the Sun, facing West, giving the sign of his grade. And let him say in a loud voice:

:'''Hail unto Thee who art Tum in Thy setting, even unto Thee who art Tum in Thy joy, who travellest over the Heavens in Thy bark at the Down-going of the Sun. Tahuti standeth in His splendour at the prow, and Ra-Hoor abideth at the helm. Hail unto Thee from the Abodes of Day!

4. Lastly, at Midnight, let him greet the Sun, facing North, giving the sign of his grade, and let him say in a loud voice:

:'''Hail unto thee who art Khephra in Thy hiding, even unto Thee who art Khephra in Thy silence, who travellest over the heavens in Thy bark at the Midnight Hour of the Sun. Tahuti standeth in His splendour at the prow, and Ra-Hoor abideth at the helm. Hail unto Thee from the Abodes of Evening.

5. And after each of these invocations thou shalt give the sign of silence, and afterward thou shalt perform the adoration that is taught thee by thy Superior. And then do thou compose Thyself to holy meditation.

6. Also it is better if in these adorations thou assume the God-form of Whom thou adorest, as if thou didst unite with Him in the adoration of That which is beyond Him.

7. Thus shalt thou ever be mindful of the Great Work which thou hast undertaken to perform, and thus shalt thou be strengthened to pursue it unto the attainment of the Stone of the Wise, the Summum Bonum, True Wisdom and Perfect Happiness.

==The Egyptian Godforms in Liber Resh==

*'''[[Ra]]'''—The sun god.
*'''[[Tahuti]]'''—The god of knowledge, wisdom, and writing.
*'''[[Ra-Hoor]]'''—The hawk-headed patron god of the Pharaohs.
*'''[[Hathor|Ahathoor]]'''—The cow-headed goddess of love, music and dance.
*'''[[Tum]]'''—The first formed of the nine primary Egyptian gods.
*'''[[Khephra]]'''—Form of Ra as a scarab, or dung beetle.

==See also==
*[[Magick in Theory & Practice#Rituals of Thelema|Rituals of Thelema]]

==References==
*Crowley, Aleister. (1982). ''Magick Without Tears.'' Phoenix, AZ : Falcon Press
*Crowley, Aleister. (1979). ''The Confessions of Aleister Crowley.'' London;Boston : Routledge & Kegan Paul.
[[Category:Thelema]] [[Category:Ritual]] [[Category:Works of Aleister Crowley]]

==External Links==
*[http://www.youtube.com/WorldWideResh WorldWideResh] - Videos of Liber Resh observances in public
*[http://hermetic.com/dionysos/34-19.htm Solar Adorations] - A ritual variant by T Polyphilus
*[http://hermetic.com/dionysos/prep.htm A Preparatory Regimen for Gnostic Mass Officers] - Relates Liber Resh to the work of clergy in the [[Gnostic Mass]]

Eucharist

2005-02-27T07:03:23Z

Paradoxosalpha:

{{religion}} | {{MTP}}

A ''Eucharist'' is a ceremony where common elements are imbued with divine forces and then consumed. It can be easily categorized by the number of sacraments partaken of.

[[Aleister Crowley]] recommended the daily performance of the mass, for this he made [[Mass of the Phoenix|The Mass of the Phoenix]], which is designed to be performed daily at sunset. He also adapted the Mass of the Phoenix into a congregational ceremony called the "Ritual Ordained for Public Service." It was performed by the O.T.O. prior to Crowley's issuance of the eucharistic [[Gnostic Mass]], after which the earlier Public Service ritual was retired.

==Pre-Christian Precedents==

===Jewish Table Blessings===

===Pagan Mystery Cult Meals===

==Christian Eucharist==

The term "eucharist" originates in Christian ritual, where it is from the Greek word for "thanksgiving."

''[more details needed here!]''

==Magical Eucharists==

The Golden Dawn Neophyte ritual closing includes a eucharist of five elements that strongly influenced Crowley's [[Mass of the Phoenix]].

==Eucharist of Three Elements: The Gunas==

Here's an elaboration of a Eucharist of three elements taken from ''Magick in Theory and Practice'', Part II, Ch. XX and ''Book 4'', Part II, Ch. IV.

A Eucharist of three elements utilizes the symbolism of the Gunas: Tamas, Rajas, and Tattvas. Tamas is salt, dark, heavy and sluggish, Rajas is sulfur, active, and fierce, and Tattvas is Mercury, calm and smooth.

In the Neophyte Ceremony of the Golden Dawn, the operation of the Gunas is implied many times. Here is an example of the the Gunas at work in the 0=0 Ceremony that might help you understand the Eucharist of three elements: In the ceremony, the Candidate (Tamas, salt) is brought to the Lord of the West (Rajas, Sulfur) to gain courage. Then the candidate is brought to the Lord of the East (Tattvas, Mercury) who holds the balance and the aspirant in a straight line.

===Tamas===
''For Tamas (darkness) take opium or nightshade or some sleepy medicine;''

Nightshade is from the genus of plants called Solanum. In some cases the plants yield poisionous juices. The juices can be taken in light doses to induce a state of slothfullness. In 777, Column XXXIX, Nightshade is attributed to the number 32, Saturn, Key XXI, et cetra. Compare the qualities of Saturn to the qualities of Nightshade.

Opium induces a dreamy state of consciousness which results in the stagnation of one's mental conditions. In 777, opium is attributed to the number 29, Pisces, Key XVIII, etc.

In short, both Nightshade and Opium can be taken as Tamas. However, their attributions in 777 indicate that they individually induce a particular state of consciousness. This goes to show that Pisces and Saturn are easy references in understanding Tamas.

===Rajas===
''for Rajas (activity) take strychnine or other excitant''

Strychnine is derived from Nox Vomica and other related plants. It can be used as poison for rodents and also has a medicinal use in that it stimulates the central nervous system. In 777, Nox Vomica is attributed to the number 5, Geburah, Mars, et cetra.

Strychnine can be taken in small doses on top of Opium or Nightshade to activate the dullness of Tamas. This is where Sattvas begins to play an important role.

It should be noted carefully that strychnine is an extremely dangerous poison, which can be deadly in relatively small quantities. Its use is discouraged without expert and experienced guidance.

===Sattvas===
''for Sattvas (calm) the Cakes of Light may again be suitable.''

The Cakes of Light contain meal, honey, and oil for their base. The meal contains carbohydrates, oil for fats, and honey for proteids. Carbs, oils, and fats are macronutrients which are essential to living organisms. The Cakes of Light also have for their symbolism the five elements: meal (Prithivi, Earth), honey (Vayu, Air), olive oil (Apas, water), Oil of Abramelin (Tejas, Fire), and conditioner (Akasha, Spirit). The Cake of Light can be identified with the Sun. On the Tree of Life, Tiphereth is the 6th Sephiroth and lies on the Middle Pillar.

The following statement reflects one opinion: By consuming the wafer one identifies with the Sun and the Middle Pillar. The identification with the wafer and the Sun can be seen as the advancement up the Middle Pillar towards Tiphereth. In other words, the Cakes of Light help regain the balance and straight path of the Middle Pillar.

[[Category:The Gnostic Mass]]

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T06:49:34Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Paradoxos Alpha's Solution */

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

:I disagree completely. Which is to say, I agree with Thiebes (for the reasons amply detailed in my other entries on this discussion page) that the religious/non-religious contention belongs in the [[Thelema & Religion]] article. I would also like to see the "Theology" replaced with a "Doctrines" section, where one of the various, explicitly non-obligatory doctrines would reference the Holy Books as a scriptural canon, with a link to the proper article (dropping the "Thelemic Canon" section in [[Thelema]] altogether). That's my proposed solution. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:31, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::Ash says, "the religious/non-religious dictomy ... is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture." I disagree. It is instead an aspect of '''modern religious culture''' generally (see my "Different Views" discussion subhead, below). Here then, is the crowning irony of the insistence on "non-religious" Thelema. It springs axiomatically from the dynamic of "religion" in modern "secular" society. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:20, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

===Paradoxos Alpha's Solution===
(reasoning provided in other replies throughout discussion)
*Move the religious/non-religious contention to [[Thelema & Religion]].
*Eliminate [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]
*Replace "Theology" in [[Thelema]] with a "Doctrines" section, listing various, explicitly non-obligatory doctrines with links to pertinent articles, e.g.: [[Holy Guardian Angel]], [[body of light]], [[True Will]].
*Eliminate "Thelemic Canon" in [[Thelema]], in favor of a "Doctrine" item mentioning the scriptural canon established through A.'.A.'. Class A, and cross-referencing [[Holy Books of Thelema]].
Editors assuming my ideological bias on these issues may also note that it was I who recently changed "religion" to "philosophical school and religious matrix" in the initial characterization of "Thelema."--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:45, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:I agree with all of these points wrt limiting scope and offloading to more targeted articles. After all, ''all of Thelemapedia'' is about "Thelema." This article should give only the broadest of outlines, with specific details regarding the history and application of the term itself. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:23, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::There's no "quietly edit" on my part! You will note that I made no edits to the paragraph in question, preferring to address the issue ''in discussion'' with editors who should be presumed to know their own minds about this material. If you feel "marginalized" by my observations, oh well. I don't believe that the object of scholarship is to provide personal validation for all possible readers. The fact is, that even a "Liber AL Only" Thelema, with its revealed scripture, gods, rituals, invocations, prophet/prince-priest, etc. etc., can only be considered "non-religious" on two possible bases: 1) personal animosity towards the category of religion ''per se'', or 2) an attempt to categorically priviledge Thelema among other religious forms and traditions by rhetorical fiat. Neither of these is a useful fulcrum for scholarship.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:08, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T06:45:25Z

Paradoxosalpha: Paradoxos Alpha's Solution

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

:I disagree completely. Which is to say, I agree with Thiebes (for the reasons amply detailed in my other entries on this discussion page) that the religious/non-religious contention belongs in the [[Thelema & Religion]] article. I would also like to see the "Theology" replaced with a "Doctrines" section, where one of the various, explicitly non-obligatory doctrines would reference the Holy Books as a scriptural canon, with a link to the proper article (dropping the "Thelemic Canon" section in [[Thelema]] altogether). That's my proposed solution. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:31, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::Ash says, "the religious/non-religious dictomy ... is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture." I disagree. It is instead an aspect of '''modern religious culture''' generally (see my "Different Views" discussion subhead, below). Here then, is the crowning irony of the insistence on "non-religious" Thelema. It springs axiomatically from the dynamic of "religion" in modern "secular" society. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:20, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

===Paradoxos Alpha's Solution===
(reasoning provided in other replies throughout discussion)
*Move the religious/non-religious contention to [[Thelema & Religion]].
*Eliminate [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]
*Replace "Theology" in [[Thelema]] with a "Doctrines" section, listing various, explicitly non-obligatory doctrines with links to pertinent articles, e.g.: [[Holy Guardian Angel]], [[body of light]], [[True Will]].
*Eliminate "Thelemic Canon" in [[Thelema]], in favor of a "Doctrine" item mentioning the scriptural canon established through A.'.A.'. Class A, and cross-referencing [[Holy Books]].
Editors assuming my ideological bias on these issues may also note that it was I who recently changed "religion" to "philosophical school and religious matrix" in the initial characterization of "Thelema."--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:45, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:I agree with all of these points wrt limiting scope and offloading to more targeted articles. After all, ''all of Thelemapedia'' is about "Thelema." This article should give only the broadest of outlines, with specific details regarding the history and application of the term itself. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:23, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::There's no "quietly edit" on my part! You will note that I made no edits to the paragraph in question, preferring to address the issue ''in discussion'' with editors who should be presumed to know their own minds about this material. If you feel "marginalized" by my observations, oh well. I don't believe that the object of scholarship is to provide personal validation for all possible readers. The fact is, that even a "Liber AL Only" Thelema, with its revealed scripture, gods, rituals, invocations, prophet/prince-priest, etc. etc., can only be considered "non-religious" on two possible bases: 1) personal animosity towards the category of religion ''per se'', or 2) an attempt to categorically priviledge Thelema among other religious forms and traditions by rhetorical fiat. Neither of these is a useful fulcrum for scholarship.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:08, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T06:31:50Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Aleph's Solution */

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

:I disagree completely. Which is to say, I agree with Thiebes (for the reasons amply detailed in my other entries on this discussion page) that the religious/non-religious contention belongs in the [[Thelema & Religion]] article. I would also like to see the "Theology" replaced with a "Doctrines" section, where one of the various, explicitly non-obligatory doctrines would reference the Holy Books as a scriptural canon, with a link to the proper article (dropping the "Thelemic Canon" section in [[Thelema]] altogether). That's my proposed solution. Editors assuming my ideological bias on this issue may wish to note that it was I who recently changed "religion" to "philosophical school and religious matrix" in the initial characterization of "Thelema."--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:31, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::Ash says, "the religious/non-religious dictomy ... is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture." I disagree. It is instead an aspect of '''modern religious culture''' generally (see my "Different Views" discussion subhead, below). Here then, is the crowning irony of the insistence on "non-religious" Thelema. It springs axiomatically from the dynamic of "religion" in modern "secular" society. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:20, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:I agree with all of these points wrt limiting scope and offloading to more targeted articles. After all, ''all of Thelemapedia'' is about "Thelema." This article should give only the broadest of outlines, with specific details regarding the history and application of the term itself. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:23, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::There's no "quietly edit" on my part! You will note that I made no edits to the paragraph in question, preferring to address the issue ''in discussion'' with editors who should be presumed to know their own minds about this material. If you feel "marginalized" by my observations, oh well. I don't believe that the object of scholarship is to provide personal validation for all possible readers. The fact is, that even a "Liber AL Only" Thelema, with its revealed scripture, gods, rituals, invocations, prophet/prince-priest, etc. etc., can only be considered "non-religious" on two possible bases: 1) personal animosity towards the category of religion ''per se'', or 2) an attempt to categorically priviledge Thelema among other religious forms and traditions by rhetorical fiat. Neither of these is a useful fulcrum for scholarship.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:08, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T06:23:03Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad */

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::Ash says, "the religious/non-religious dictomy ... is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture." I disagree. It is instead an aspect of '''modern religious culture''' generally (see my "Different Views" discussion subhead, below). Here then, is the crowning irony of the insistence on "non-religious" Thelema. It springs axiomatically from the dynamic of "religion" in modern "secular" society. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:20, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:I agree with all of these points wrt limiting scope and offloading to more targeted articles. After all, ''all of Thelemapedia'' is about "Thelema." This article should give only the broadest of outlines, with specific details regarding the history and application of the term itself. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:23, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::There's no "quietly edit" on my part! You will note that I made no edits to the paragraph in question, preferring to address the issue ''in discussion'' with editors who should be presumed to know their own minds about this material. If you feel "marginalized" by my observations, oh well. I don't believe that the object of scholarship is to provide personal validation for all possible readers. The fact is, that even a "Liber AL Only" Thelema, with its revealed scripture, gods, rituals, invocations, prophet/prince-priest, etc. etc., can only be considered "non-religious" on two possible bases: 1) personal animosity towards the category of religion ''per se'', or 2) an attempt to categorically priviledge Thelema among other religious forms and traditions by rhetorical fiat. Neither of these is a useful fulcrum for scholarship.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:08, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T06:20:21Z

Paradoxosalpha:

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::Ash says, "the religious/non-religious dictomy ... is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture." I disagree. It is instead an aspect of '''modern religious culture''' generally (see my "Different Views" discussion subhead, below). Here then, is the crowning irony of the insistence on "non-religious" Thelema. It springs axiomatically from the dynamic of "religion" in modern "secular" society. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:20, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::There's no "quietly edit" on my part! You will note that I made no edits to the paragraph in question, preferring to address the issue ''in discussion'' with editors who should be presumed to know their own minds about this material. If you feel "marginalized" by my observations, oh well. I don't believe that the object of scholarship is to provide personal validation for all possible readers. The fact is, that even a "Liber AL Only" Thelema, with its revealed scripture, gods, rituals, invocations, prophet/prince-priest, etc. etc., can only be considered "non-religious" on two possible bases: 1) personal animosity towards the category of religion ''per se'', or 2) an attempt to categorically priviledge Thelema among other religious forms and traditions by rhetorical fiat. Neither of these is a useful fulcrum for scholarship.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:08, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T06:08:44Z

Paradoxosalpha:

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::There's no "quietly edit" on my part! You will note that I made no edits to the paragraph in question, preferring to address the issue ''in discussion'' with editors who should be presumed to know their own minds about this material. If you feel "marginalized" by my observations, oh well. I don't believe that the object of scholarship is to provide personal validation for all possible readers. The fact is, that even a "Liber AL Only" Thelema, with its revealed scripture, gods, rituals, invocations, prophet/prince-priest, etc. etc., can only be considered "non-religious" on two possible bases: 1) personal animosity towards the category of religion ''per se'', or 2) an attempt to categorically priviledge Thelema among other religious forms and traditions by rhetorical fiat. Neither of these is a useful fulcrum for scholarship.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 00:08, 27 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-27T05:59:15Z

Paradoxosalpha:

==DISCUSSION: Different views of Thelema==

'''To all editors:''' this discussion surrounds the following paragraph currently in Thelema:

:'''Different views of Thelema'''

:'''Not all adherents of Thelema consider it a religion or subscribe to the philosophy of True Will as outlined in Aleister Crowley's writings. Thelemites may or may not believe in the necessity of Canon or Theology as outlined in this article. Many require nothing more than an acceptance of the message of The Book of the Law as interpreted by the individual, each for him or herself.'''

There is debate over the appropriateness of this paragraph. Thelemapedia is inviting you to share your opinion and offer solutions. Please put your comments in a sub-header: e.g. <nowiki>===My Solution===</nowiki>

:One thing I really don't understand is why on October 17, you said ""Different views" a good entry...just simplified the grammar." Why isn't different views a good entry anymore? What changed? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

===Ash's solution===

I believe this statement is subtractive, rather than additive, and provides no substantive information from the knowedge base. However, I agree with the principle of including alternative points of view, which is why I added the link to the new article, [[Alternative Views of Thelema]]. I think the paragraph in Thelema article should be more generic, such as:

:'''Thelema is many things to many people, and no single definition can encapsulate it for every Thelemite. It can be experienced and manifested as (but not limited to) religion, philosophy, a set of practices, a system of magick, ethical guidelines, lifestyle, culture, or political viewpoint. Even the requirements for being a Thelemite are not clear, and are often defined by the individual herself. There are also Thelemic movements that have serious differences in opinion from Aleister Crowley and his interpretations of Liber Legis. '''

:'''For a more complete review on these differences, see [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].'''

What do you think?

===Thiebes' solution===

Since Crowley himself has written some things which would appear to support the nonreligious view of Thelema, and since I myself know personally several adherents to this view, it seems obvious to me that this view should be included, along with the various ways that people reconcile (or reduce) Crowley's apparent self-contradiction on the topic.

I notice there is an entry for "Thelema and Religion." This seems to be the most appropriate place, to me, to discuss the question of whether Thelema is or is not a religion. Indeed, that is where quotes from Crowley ''supporting'' the religious view are found (rather than in the article on Thelema).

Ash, your paragraph beginning with "Thelema is many things to many people" minimizes the important fact that Crowley himself wrote contradictory things on the question of whether Thelema is a religion. I find it a rather condescending approach.

My solution is as follows. I don't actually have time to write the final text as I'm imagining it, but basically add a couple of sentences in the article on "Thelema" about this controversy. Refer to the "Thelema and Religion" article. Then move the "Different views" paragraph to the latter article, add quotes from Crowley to support the position (as in MWT), and describe the relationship of Thelema to Religion as one which draws continued controversy. Finally remove the "Alternative views" article since the very title suggests that the views are not to be found in the literature.

=== Isomeme's revision to Ash's solution ===

I think the key problem is that all religion (or mysticism, or whatever label you choose) is in the end subjective, so to say that Thelema is a matter of interpretation and opinion verges on tautology. Here's my proposed rewrite of Ash's first paragraph above:

:'''Thelema, like any religious or mystical system, is in the end a matter of personal experience. There is no objective standard to determine who is or is not a Thelemite, nor what beliefs, practices, interpretations, or goals are compatible or incompatible with Thelema. Unlike some religious systems, there is no single authority which claims jurisdiction over Thelemic orthodoxy, leaving the field open to a variety of organizations, movements, and individuals, each approaching Thelema differently.'''

:'''The only seemingly unequivocal instruction Thelema provides in this matter is this line from the Class A Comment on Liber AL: "All questions of the Law are to be decided only by appeal to my writings, each for himself."'''

::I think this is a very good improvement on my paragraph. You got closer to what I was trying to say. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

Thiebes, I'm not sure I follow your argument re "Alternate Views". These alternatives are very much to be found in "the literature", taking that to mean the work of modern self-identified Thelemites. Can you clarify, please?

[[User:Isomeme|Isomeme]]

:The "Alternative Views" (such as the one that Thelema is not a religion) are also found ''in Crowley'' and calling them "Alternative" gives the impression that they are not. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::"Alternative" in no way should mean "not in the literature." This should be backed up by editors using Crowley (and others, hopefully) to support their entries. Further, this article shouldn't focus only on the "religion-ness" of Thelema, and should also present ideas on culture, ethics, politics, etc. I think the article "Thelema and Religion" should stick to how Thelema ''does'' manifest as a religion, rather than being a page for debate on religion. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::But I think "Alternative" implies not mainstream (and that it's a minority view) and I'm not sure that's the case.

::::Would you be more comfortable if the article were called "Views on Thelema"? Do you have any other suggestions? It's not too late to rename the article. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:::::If "alternative" should not be read to mean, "alternative to Crowley," then what is it alternative to? In any case, if the article is renamed "Views on Thelema," then there is no meaningful difference between this article and the main one, I think. Personally I think that "Thelema & Religion" is the perfect place to describe the different views on "Thelema & Religion" -- the relationship of Thelema to religion, including the view that Thelema is a religion, and the view that Thelema is not a religion. I also agree with Aleph about the various sections that should logically be put elsewhere. I'll work on the text of my proposed solution and post it as soon as I can. --[[User:Thiebes|Thiebes]]

::::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: This article discusses the central components of Thelema, and presents a picture of its overall structure as reflected in the knowledge base. The "Views" article (or whatever it is called) refers to how various groups use, interpret, and modify those central components. Some of those uses, interpretations, and modifications will be overtly religious, and some won't.

::::::To take out the core holy books would be a serious omission—they are called The Holy Books of Thelema after all, and formed the backbone of everything Crowley developed for Thelema. If we are going to reduce the article to what every Thelemite can agree upon, then there will be no article. That's why Isomeme's paragraph is so good...it acknowedges that the use (or lack thereof) and interpretation of these components is up to the individual Thelemite. To deny that the Holy Books play a central role in Thelema just because they have a religious tone is akin to denial.

:::::::I'd like to point out that the list of Holy Books is a duplication. They are already listed in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. That being the case, the encyclopedic way would be to refer to the article, not relist them. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::::::I agree; Thelemapedia seems a bit heavy on redundant catalog lists at the moment.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

:::That said, I like Isomeme's proposal. [[User:z111|z111]]

===Aleph's Solution===

I don't think there is anything here that needs to be solved. While I originated this paragraph, it was added to by one other person, and rewritten in its current form by Ash. I have to say, none of the rewrites proposed address the actual issues in the current paragraph, but rather try to gloss over the existance of non-religious Thelemites who ''specifically'' reject religious elements such as Church, Canon, Creed & Mass.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: It is the rejection part that is the problem here. Under this rule, we should mention that some Thelemites reject Crowley, the Law as it's stated, Liber Legis in it's present form, and every thing else on the page. By putting it all under one banner that says "there are many interpretation of Thelema", we don't get bogged down in specifics on the main page, while providing a link to them elsewhere.

::Why is it bogging down? I think the rest of the article gets bogged down with an implicit acceptance of the religious view. Shall I start a debate on the use of the word "Theology" and start a debate that the list of the "Canon" should be moved into [[Thelema & Religion]]? I don't think so. I think the correct approach is to say up front that the issue of "Religion" is one that divides Thelemites into two camps. That is simply the truth, and glossing over it does not accurately represent the issue. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::I also dislike the term "Theology," even if it is a simple extrapolation from the fact that such figures as the Speakers of Liber AL are called "gods." Instead of that section as it stands, I would prefer to see a section on "Typical Doctrines" that would give quick summaries and references to articles on such things as reincarnation, the body of light, the Holy Guardian Angel, etc. Furthermore, I don't see the need for the superposition of the term "Canon" on the existing nomenclature of the "Holy Books." --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 23:59, 26 Feb 2005 (CST)

I have to severely disagree with moving it to the [[Thelema & Religion]] page. The whole point is that this is a view about [[Thelema]] and should be in the [[Thelema]] article. Then the religious camp can explain their position further in [[Thelema & Religion]] and the alternative view camp can elaborate on their views in [[Alternative Views of Thelema]].

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I agree here completely.

I have to ask - does anyone here proposing solutions propose to move the stuff about the "Theology of Thelema" and "The Thelemic Canon", and any other religious elements out of this article? If not, this is where the section "Different views of Thelema" belongs - as a disclaimer before the religious elaborate on their creed.

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: Those things are central to Thelema...they are constantly referred to in Thelemic literature, and provide much of its backbone. Just because one doesn't like them doesn't mean they don't exist or play a major role in defining what Thelema is. Also, there is nothing in those sections about religion, other than the term "holy books" which is how the author described them.

:::The point here is that there are Thelemites who accept ''only'' the Book of the Law. What is an is not "Thelemic" literature depends on the Thelemite. The Canon is ''not'' referred to in the Book of the Law. This has nothing to do with whether or not one accepts Crowley. This has to do with how an individual interprets the BotL. Some interpretations do not get into any of the additional stuff that Crowley piled on above and beyond the BoL. Your insistence that the Canon is "central" to Thelema is simply your own opinion. What is being rejected here is the projection of that opinion onto all Thelemites. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]Yes, there are Thelemites who only accept the Book of the Law...that doesn't make the rest of the Holy Books go away...they are all part of one collection, and Crowley said that AL was the chief of them, not seperate from them. In fact, in one place he said that he thought V&V might be as important as AL. The rest of your point is covered in Isomeme's paragraph...there is no central source of orthodoxy, and how someone accepts Thelema into their life is completely up to that individual.

The religious/non-religious dicotomy is the whole ''point'' of the paragraph. What this boils down to is that I am trying to make a point, and you and others would prefer that this point not be brought up here. I don't want my point watered down - it is the ''essence'' of the issue. As you say, some reject Crowley, the Book of the Law, etc., but that can be discussed on the alternative views page. There is and does exist a division of Thelemites into religious and non-religious. That is why one page is called [[Thelema & Religion]] in the first place. It doesn't make sense to say that things are to be divided between [[Thelema & Religion]] and [[Alternative Views of Thelema]], but then say that the ''basis'' of that distinction cannot be mentioned in the paragraph that provides the introduction to the [[Alternative Views of Thelema]] article. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]: I understand you want the idea of the religious/non-religious dictomy up front, but I would argue that that dichotomy is, in itself, not a defining aspect of the system of Thelema, but rather of modern Thelemic culture. In other words, there is nothing within the structure of Thelema itself that requires a split between those who see Thelema as a religion and those who don't. If you wanted to discuss the various cultural aspects of Thelema, one of which being a section that denies its more religious components, then that discussion could fit under a "Thelemic Culture" sub-section. As a comparison, Isomeme's paragraph actually discusses ideas that are (arguably) intergral aspects built into the structure of Thelema itself. Can you think of a way to include your more specific point into his paragraph? Let's try to find a compromise.

::I propose we wait and see what text Thiebes proposes. He seems to understand that Crowley's writings themselves contain the dichotomy, and seems to have more understanding for both sides. Quite frankly, I don't like either your take on it or Isomeme's revision thereof. Also, we should let some time pass to allow other editors who may not log in daily to chip in. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]I challenge anyone to find a quote from Crowley that says Thelemites should ignore the Holy Books, or that they play a minor, secondary, or otherwise optional role in the system of Thelema. They must stay in the article or the article becomes neutered, and a major (and I argue central) component of Thelema will be missing.

:::So, with that said, here are three more compromises:

:::1. sub-section such as "Views on Religion", where a general range could be identified.
:::2. sub-section called "Aspects of Thelema" where we can have sub-sub-sections on Religion, Philosophy, and anything else you think might go there.
:::3. sub-section called "The Religion/Philosophy Dichotomy in Thelemic Culture", and describe the two viewpoints in brief.

::::Well, hey, you chose to open up this can 'o worms. I still want to know why on Oct. 17, you stated that the "Different Views of Thelema" paragraph was a "good entry", and now suddenly it is not. What changed? Why not just let the paragraph stand, along with the rest of the article. Seems like not all the editors agree that this is the most appropriate place for the list of the "Canon". That could go into [[Holy Books of Thelema]] (hey, look it already is. can you say duplication??), which would simply be mentioned in this article. I have no objection to Canon, Creed, etc. being ''mentioned'' in this article, or even statements about their importance. I simply do not believe that the complete ''lists'' of all the details belong here. The details belong in their own articles. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

:::::[[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]] : Although I would keep the details under AL (those things really need to be spelled out, and some duplication is acceptable), the idea of describing the other Holy Books and providing a link to the full list is acceptable to me.

:::::So, with that in mind, how does this sound...Under the Theology section, we have three sub-sections: (1) the current AL entry, (2) Description of Holy Books and link, (3) a brief description of interpretations of these items, such as:

::::::'''Not all Thelemites agree on the importance of all of the "Holy Books", Crowley's interpretations of them, or their theological nature. Some Thelemites use these writings as the backbone of a religion of Thelema, while others consider Thelema to be more of a philosophy or ethical system, and not a religion at all. Crowley himself had contradictory views on Thelema as a religion. However one regards them, he did consider them important to the system of Thelema, especially as manifested in his order, the A.'.A.'.''''

:::::Are we getting any closer?

==DISCUSSION: Scope of article too broad==
This article seems to go beyond its topic. For example, the section entitled "The Speakers of Liber AL" logically belongs in the article on the [[Book of the Law]].

The section entitled "Other personalities presented in Liber Legis" logically belongs in [[Thelemic Godforms]].

The section entitled "The Thelemic Canon" logically belongs in [[Holy Books of Thelema]]. In fact, it is already there and has been for some time. The encyclopedic way of doing things dictates that this information should not be reproduced in two places. The [[Thelema]] article should simply reference [[Holy Books of Thelema]] in a summary paragraph about their place in and importance to Thelema.

Why not simply present a shorter summary here, and move the detailed expositions to the articles where they actually belong? IMO, a short sweet overview of the basics of Thelema is what should be in this article. If these changes were made, the other issue being discussed should prove easier to resolve. [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

While "deities" is problematic as a term, I'm not convinced that "personalities" as a designator really works either - its absence in the literature doesn't lend a lot of support for its use. Personally, I think the differentiations are important and should be delineated where possible. For example: "Archangels" could include Ithuriel, as "Genii" could include Malkunofat from Liber 231.
- aishmlchmh

:I do have to say that it is very strange that those who insist that Thelema is a Religion get all mamby-pamby when they have to talk about "Gods" or "Deities" and end up with "Personalities" instead. If Thelema is indeed a Religion, shouldn't one take the Bull by the Horns and at least call them Deities, if not Gods? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

:You're right. It's silly to make such a big deal out if it as you are doing. Also, by implying that the inclusion of a single paragraph is silly, you are dismissing the views of actual groups of people and their beliefs, and implying that their beliefs are silly. Is this an attempt to marginalize a subset of Thelemites? Is the front page claim of Thelemapedia, "Everyone from every corner of the Thelemic universe is welcome to add knowledge to the encyclopedia by becoming an editor," simply a falsehood, a gambit to attract more editors for this Wiki, perhaps with the intent to quietly edit out non-orthodox views at a later date when those editors are no longer actively paying attention? [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-25T04:14:24Z

Paradoxosalpha: different views

== Disambiguation ==

I think this should be split into several different articles to disambiguate usage. I'd suggest:

*[[Thelema]] - overview article
*[[Thelema (formula)]]
*[[Thelema (system)]] (the practical system)
*[[Thelema & Religion|Thelema (religion)]] (the religious aspect)

I would add [[Thelema (history)]], but that should simply redirect to [[History]].

[[User:Adityanath|Adityanath]]

:I don't think it needs to be a full disambiguation page...a section on "See Also" should suffice if someone wants to write more detailed articles. —[[User:Ash|Ash]]

:: Done, wrt Religion. I'm unconvinced that Thelema has a ''single'' "practical system": the systems of A.'.A.'. and OTO differ in important respects, and other systems are possible (and extant) under the general aegis of Thelema. To the extent that an overview of Thelemic practices (systematized or not) is useful and possible, the "Practices" subsection of the current article goes a long way in that direction. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

:Thanks for the technical corrections. [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]

:I'm not sure this is correct. Doesn't Hru-machis mean "Horus of the Star" while RHK means "Horus of the Two Horizons"? I have always thought that they are two different forms of Horus. What you say about ''arise'' is ''attractive'', but not convincing unless there is something that shows that the Egyptians considered the two identical. Neither the old nor new comment mentions this identity... [[User:Aleph|Aleph]]

::"Two different forms of Horus" is fine. I wasn't trying to establish any more precise equivalence than that. In the Extenuation ("New Comment," so-called by Regardie), Crowley takes a somewhat different tack, vaguely identifiying Hrumachis with "any new course of events." Still it was expressly as "Harmachis" (among others) that Crowley invoked Horus--who then revealed himself as the Lord of the Aeon--in the Cairo working; see the Great Invocation, section Beta II Beth.
::Also, I am in turn skeptical of your implied assertion that Egyptological data are final arbiters regarding the "personalities" (as the present article has it) who wear their names and attributes in Thelemic literature and doctrine.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

:RIght you are. However, the list was intended to reflect "dieties" that are promenant in Thelema, not just Liber AL. Perhaps the header should change to include all Thelemic holy books? [[User:Ash|Fr. Ash]]
::I certainly prefer the present "personalities" to "deities," in terms of avoiding metaphysical recklessness. As it stands, every entry on the list can be found in Liber Legis ''except'' for Chaos. If you open it up to all the Holy Books, it's a real can of worms: Adonai from Liber LXV? Iacchus and Al A'ain the Priest from Liber VII? All 44 spirits from CCXXXII?--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 21:46, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Different Views of Thelema ==

It's silly to make a big deal out of the insistence of some professed Thelemites that Thelema is not a religion. This issue does not pertain specifically to Thelema, but rather to '''religion''' generally. It is very common (as Google will show) to find Christians who say that Christianity is not a religion ("It's a personal relationship with Jesus!"), Muslims who say that Islam is not a religion ("It's a way of life!"), Jews who say that Judaism is not religion ("It's a heritage!"), etc. etc. In virtually all cases, this rhetorical trope appears to be an attempt to priviledge the "non-religion" of the adherent above all of the other mere religions. As an aspiring source of "academic" information on Thelema, Thelemapedia shouldn't capitulate to such gambits. If we must take note of them, we should properly contextualize them as a feature of ''religious discourse'' that transcends creed and tradition. [http://www.islamfortoday.com/islamisareligion.htm Here] is a fairly articulate essay on this topic from the perpective of an American convert to Islam.--[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 22:14, 24 Feb 2005 (CST)

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-25T03:46:39Z

Paradoxosalpha: replies

Thelema

2005-02-22T22:44:58Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* See also */

{{partial}}

'''Thelema''', Θελημα in Greek, means ''will''.

==A brief summary of Thelema==

'''Thelema''' is the name of the philosophical school and religious matrix established in 1904 with the writing of [[Liber AL vel Legis]] ([[The Book of the Law]]) by [[Aleister Crowley]] (1875-1947). The Law is summed up in two phrases from the Book:
*“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law” (AL I:40) and
*“Love is the law, love under will” (AL I:57).
The central goal of a Thelemite (as adherents refer to themselves) is to discover and perform his or her [[True Will]], which is generally defined as the innermost Nature or proper life course of the individual. The techniques used to achieve this goal fall under the heading of [[Magick]].

There are also strong political, ethical, aesthetic, and cultural aspects to Thelema. Although there is no strict literal doctrine concerning these matters, Aleister Crowley wrote many articles and essays regarding his ideas about the proper behavior of individual Thelemites and for an ideal Thelemic society. These ideas have continued to develop into modern times. However, the primary themes involve personal freedom, a recognition that men and women have an inherent divine nature, and that Love is the basis of the [[Great Work]].

==Theology of Thelema==

===The Speakers of Liber AL===

Liber Legis is composed of three chapters that introduce the reader to three primary godforms:

#'''[[Nuit]]''' (Nu) is the speaker in Chapter I. She is the eternally-extended Eqyptian goddess of the night sky and the Queen of Space. Nuit is the complement of Hadit.
#'''[[Hadit]]''' (Had) is presented in Chapter II. He is the winged disk, the infinitely contracted point, and the source of Life. Hadit is the complement of Nuit.
#'''[[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]]''' (Horus) speaks in Chapter III. He is the Hawk-Headed Lord of the current [[Aeon]], also called the Crowned and Conquering Child. ([[Ra]] is the Egyptian sun god).

In his popular commentary to Liber Legis, Crowley points out that "There are to be no regular temples of Nuit and Hadit, for They are incommensurables and absolutes." Ra-Hoor-Khuit is therefore the "visible object of worship" presented by the Book.

===Other personalities presented in Liber Legis===

*'''[[Aiwass]]'''—This is the being that dictated Liber Legis according to Aleister Crowley—he considered Aiwass to be his personal [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Heru-ra-ha]]''' (Heru is another name for Horus)— a composite deity composed of [[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]] and Hoor-par-kraat.

*'''[[Hoor-par-kraat]]''' (also Heru-pa-kraath, and the Greek god [[Harpocrates]])—Identified as [[Horus]] in his form as a young child. Egyptian statues represent him as a naked boy with his finger on his mouth, a hieroglyph for "child" and the later notion of “silence.” He is also known as the [[Babe in the Egg]]. He is representitive of the “silent self” and an individual’s [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Babalon]]'''—The Scarlet Woman, the Great Whore, and the Mother of Abominations. She is the Yoni, the architypical Womb of all Life, the provider of material flesh to clothe our manifested Spirit, Mother Earth, and the Great Sea. Her consort is:

*'''[[Chaos]]'''—the universal generative drive, unrestrained creative power, the primal unformulated substance from which all manifested matter is made, the Fire of the Life Force found in each of us.

*'''[[The Beast]]'''—upon whom the Scarlet Woman rideth, alternatively identified as Aleister Crowley, the whole of Mankind, the [[Phallus]] (both masculine and feminine), and the Vehicle of Life.

*'''[[Ankh-af-na-khonsu]]'''—an actual Priest who lived in Thebes during the late XXVth dynasty of ancient Egypt, around 725 b.c.e. Aleister Crowley assumed the magical identity of this Priest as the living Prophet of the Aeon of Horus, the deliverer of ''The Book of the Law'' (Sabazius, 1998).

*'''The Prince-Priest / The Prophet''' —Aleister Crowley

*'''The Prophet and his Bride'''—Aleister and Rose Crowley.

*'''Asar and Isa'''—Asar is [[Osiris]], the “adorant” and Isa is the Muslim form of Jesus, the “sufferer” and a prophet (though not a messiah).

*'''[[Tahuti]]''' (the Greek [[Thoth]])—the god of knowledge, writing, language, music, the Moon, [[magick]], and occult wisdom.

*'''Because'''— "Now a curse upon Because and his kin!...Enough of Because! Be he damned for a dog!" (AL II, 28-33).

*'''[[Hrumachis]]'''- the Dawning Sun, another name of Horus.

===The Thelemic Canon===

The primary basis of Thelemic doctrine is Liber Legis. However, there is a larger group of writings that are considered to be holy books that further reveal the mysteries of Thelema. These books are:

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib1.html Liber I]: Liber B vel Magi'''—An account of the [[Grade]] of [[Magus]], the highest grade which it is even possible to manifest in any way whatsoever upon this plane.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib7.html Liber VII]: Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli]'''—These are the Birth Words of a Master of the Temple. It's 7 Chapters are referred to the 7 Planets in the following order: Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Sol, Mercury, Luna, Venus.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib10.html Liber X]: Liber Porta Lucis'''—An account of the sending forth of the [[Master Therion]] by the [[A.'.A.'.]] and an explanation of his mission.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib27.html Liber XXVII]: Liber Trigrammaton'''—Being a book of [[Trigrams]] of the Mutations of the [[Tao]] with the Yin and Yang. An account of the Cosmic process.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib65.html Liber LXV]: Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente'''—An account of the relations of the aspirant and his Holy Guardian Angel.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib66.html Liber LXVI]: Liber Stellae Rubeae'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib90.html Liber XC]: Liber Tzaddi vel Hamus Hermeticus'''—An account of Initiation, and an indication as to those who are suitable for the same.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber CLVI]: Liber Cheth vel Vallum Abiegni'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib231.html Liber CCXXXI]: Liber Arcanorum'''—An account of the cosmic process so far as it is indicated by the [[Tarot]] Trumps. The sequence of the 22 [[Trumps]] is explained as a formula of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib370.html Liber CCCLXX]: Liber A'ash vel Capricorni Pneumatici'''—Analyzes the nature of the creative magical force in man, explains how to awaken it, how to use it and indicates the general as well as the particular objects to be gained thereby. [[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib400.html Liber CD]: Liber Tau vel Kabbalae Trium Literarum'''—A graphic interpretation of the Tarot on the plane of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib813.html Liber DCCCXIII]: Ararita'''—An account of the Hexagram and the method of reducing it to the Unity and Beyond. This book describes in magical language a very secret process of Initiation.

*Some consider the larger work, '''[[The Vision and the Voice]]''', to be within the canon of Thelemic Holy Books.

==Symbology==

==Ethics==

==Culture==

==Practices==

Although there are communal ceremonies informed by Thelema, and organizations to support them (of which [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] is the most venerable and extensive), Thelemic religious practice is a mainly individual affair. Crowley composed a few guidelines to the cardinal observances and programs. In ''Liber Aleph'' he lists the following "Means prescribed in our Holy Books" for constant observance:
:*Neglect never the fourfold Adoration of the Sun in his four Stations, for thereby thou dost affirm thy Place in Nature and her Harmonies. ([[Liber Resh]])
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Ritual of the Pentagram, and of the Assumtion of the Form of Hoor-pa-Kraat. (Liber O)
:*Neglect not the daily Miracle of the Mass, either by the Rite of the [[Gnostic Catholic Church]] ([[The Gnostic Mass|Liber XV]]), or that of the Phoenix (Mass of the Phoenix).
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Mass of the Holy Ghost, as Nature Herself prompteth thee.
:*Travel much also in the Empyrean in thy [[Body of Light]], seeking ever Abodes more fiery and lucid.
:*Finally, excercise the Eight Limbs of [[Yoga]].

In ''Magick in Theory and Practice'', there is a similar regimen with slightly different emphasis. First he recommends yoga, with the method explained in "Part I" of ''Book Four''. Then he lists "the most important drill practices" of magick, as follows:
:*The fortification of the Body of Light by the constant use of rituals, or by the assumption of God-forms, and by the right use of the [[Eucharist]].
:*The [[purification]] and [[consecration]] and exaltation of that Body by the use of rituals of [[invocation]].
:*The education of that Body by experience. It must learn to travel on every plane; to break down every obstacle which may confront it. This experience must be as systematic and regular as possible; for it is of no use merely to travel to the spheres of [[The Planets:Jupiter|Jupiter]] and [[The Planets:Venus|Venus]], or even to explore the 30 [[Aethyr]]s, neglecting unattractive meridians.

In addition to these programs, there are some other basic practices usually involved in Thelema. The first of these is the [[magical record]] or diary. "Verily, it is better to fail in the magical ceremony than to fail in writing down an accurate record of it." (''Book Four'') The second is the recital of the formula of "Will" prior to the main meal of the day. This practice consists of a simple set of statements (sometimes presented as a dialogue with others) declaring that it is the individual's will to eat and drink, in order to fortify his body, in order to accomplish the [[Great Work]]. Variants on this recital exist for initiates in different circumstances (see Liber 185).

==Antecedents of Thelema==

Although the modern Thelemic movement traces its origins to the work of Aleister Crowley, he pointed to important antecedents to his use of the term, and other instances are apparent from research. The word is of some consequence in the original Greek Christian scriptures. Crowley also acknowledged Saint Augustine's "Love, and do what thou wilt" as a premonition of the Law of Thelema. In the Renaissance, a character named "Thelemia" represents will or desire in the ''Hypnerotomachia Poliphili'' of the Dominican monk Francesco Colonna. Colonna's work was, in turn, a great influence on the Franciscan monk Francois Rabelais, whose ''Gargantua and Pantagruel'' includes an "Abbey of Theleme" which Crowley embraced as a direct precursor to modern Thelema.

===Thelema in the Bible===

Thelema appears in the [[Holy Bible]] referring to divine will, human will, and even the will of the [[Satan|Devil]]. One well-known example is from “The Lord’s Prayer” in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will (Θελημα) be done, On earth as it is in heaven.” Some other quotes from the Bible are:

:“He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, "My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” —Matthew 26:42

:“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” —John 1:12-13

:“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

:"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created." —Revelation 4:11

:"…and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.” —2 Timothy 2:26

===François Rabelais===

The next well-known usage of the word was by [[Rabelais|François Rabelais]], a Franciscan and later a Benedictine monk of the 16th century. Eventually he left the monistary to study medicine, and so moved to Lyons in 1532. It was there that he wrote ''Gargantua'' and ''Pantagruel'', a connected series of books. They tell the story of two giants—a father (Gargantua) and his son (Pantagruel) and their adventures—written in an amusing, extravagant, and satirical vein.

It is in the second book where Rabelais writes of the Abbey of Theleme, built by the giant Gargantua. It pokes fun at the monastic institiutions, since his abbey has a swimming pool, maid service, and no clocks in sight.

One of the verses of the [[Abbey of Thelema Gate Inscription|inscription]] on the gate to the Abbey of Theleme says:

<blockquote>
Grace, honour, praise, delight, 
   Here sojourn day and night. 
      Sound bodies lined 
      With a good mind, 
   Do here pursue with might 
   Grace, honour, praise, delight. 
</blockquote>

But below the humor was a very real concept of utopia and the ideal society. Rabelais gives us a description of how the Thelemites of the Abbey lived and the rules they lived by:

<blockquote>All their life was spent not in laws, statutes, or rules, but according to
their own free will and pleasure. They rose out of their beds when they
thought good; they did eat, drink, labour, sleep, when they had a mind to
it and were disposed for it. None did awake them, none did offer to
constrain them to eat, drink, nor to do any other thing; for so had
Gargantua established it. In all their rule and strictest tie of their
order there was but this one clause to be observed, 
 
''Do What Thou Wilt;'' 
 
because men that are free, well-born, well-bred, and conversant in honest
companies, have naturally an instinct and spur that prompteth them unto
virtuous actions, and withdraws them from vice, which is called honour.
Those same men, when by base subjection and constraint they are brought
under and kept down, turn aside from that noble disposition by which they
formerly were inclined to virtue, to shake off and break that bond of
servitude wherein they are so tyrannously enslaved; for it is agreeable
with the nature of man to long after things forbidden and to desire what is
denied us.</blockquote>

==See also==

*[[The Book of the Law]]
*[[Aleister Crowley]]
*[[Thelema & Religion]]
*[[Svecchachara]]

==References==

* Crowley, Aleister. Magick Without Tears. Tempe: New Falcon Publications, 1997 (1973).
* Sabazius (1998). [http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/kiblah.htm The Kiblah]. Retrieved June 9, 2004.
* Thriambos, Dionysos. [http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/bible.htm The Utility of the Bible to the Student of Thelema]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).
* Weinberg, Florence M. The Wine and the Will: Rabelais's Bacchic Christianity. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1972.
* Wikipedia (2004). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gargantua_and_Pantagruel Gargantua and Pantagruel]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).

==External Links==

*[http://www.thelemicknights.org/ootmc/rabelais/rabelais.html Rabelais: The First Thelemite]

*[http://www.gutenberg.net/etext98/ggpnt10.txt Gargantua and Pantagruel, by Rabelais]

*[http://mitpress.mit.edu/e-books/HP/index.htm Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, by Francesco Colonna]

[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Religions]]
[[Category:Thelema]]

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-22T22:41:07Z

Paradoxosalpha:

Ash, nice edit on "Different Views." Thanks. [[User:Adityanath|Adityanath]]

== Disambiguation ==

I think this should be split into several different articles to disambiguate usage. I'd suggest:

*[[Thelema]] - overview article
*[[Thelema (formula)]]
*[[Thelema (system)]] (the practical system)
*[[Thelema & Religion|Thelema (religion)]] (the religious aspect)

I would add [[Thelema (history)]], but that should simply redirect to [[History]].

[[User:Adityanath|Adityanath]]

:I don't think it needs to be a full disambiguation page...a section on "See Also" should suffice if someone wants to write more detailed articles. —[[User:Ash|Ash]]

:: Done, wrt Religion. I'm unconvinced that Thelema has a ''single'' "practical system": the systems of A.'.A.'. and OTO differ in important respects, and other systems are possible (and extant) under the general aegis of Thelema. To the extent that an overview of Thelemic practices (systematized or not) is useful and possible, the "Practices" subsection of the current article goes a long way in that direction. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

Thelema

2005-02-22T22:38:12Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* A brief summary of Thelema */

{{partial}}

'''Thelema''', Θελημα in Greek, means ''will''.

==A brief summary of Thelema==

'''Thelema''' is the name of the philosophical school and religious matrix established in 1904 with the writing of [[Liber AL vel Legis]] ([[The Book of the Law]]) by [[Aleister Crowley]] (1875-1947). The Law is summed up in two phrases from the Book:
*“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law” (AL I:40) and
*“Love is the law, love under will” (AL I:57).
The central goal of a Thelemite (as adherents refer to themselves) is to discover and perform his or her [[True Will]], which is generally defined as the innermost Nature or proper life course of the individual. The techniques used to achieve this goal fall under the heading of [[Magick]].

There are also strong political, ethical, aesthetic, and cultural aspects to Thelema. Although there is no strict literal doctrine concerning these matters, Aleister Crowley wrote many articles and essays regarding his ideas about the proper behavior of individual Thelemites and for an ideal Thelemic society. These ideas have continued to develop into modern times. However, the primary themes involve personal freedom, a recognition that men and women have an inherent divine nature, and that Love is the basis of the [[Great Work]].

==Theology of Thelema==

===The Speakers of Liber AL===

Liber Legis is composed of three chapters that introduce the reader to three primary godforms:

#'''[[Nuit]]''' (Nu) is the speaker in Chapter I. She is the eternally-extended Eqyptian goddess of the night sky and the Queen of Space. Nuit is the complement of Hadit.
#'''[[Hadit]]''' (Had) is presented in Chapter II. He is the winged disk, the infinitely contracted point, and the source of Life. Hadit is the complement of Nuit.
#'''[[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]]''' (Horus) speaks in Chapter III. He is the Hawk-Headed Lord of the current [[Aeon]], also called the Crowned and Conquering Child. ([[Ra]] is the Egyptian sun god).

In his popular commentary to Liber Legis, Crowley points out that "There are to be no regular temples of Nuit and Hadit, for They are incommensurables and absolutes." Ra-Hoor-Khuit is therefore the "visible object of worship" presented by the Book.

===Other personalities presented in Liber Legis===

*'''[[Aiwass]]'''—This is the being that dictated Liber Legis according to Aleister Crowley—he considered Aiwass to be his personal [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Heru-ra-ha]]''' (Heru is another name for Horus)— a composite deity composed of [[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]] and Hoor-par-kraat.

*'''[[Hoor-par-kraat]]''' (also Heru-pa-kraath, and the Greek god [[Harpocrates]])—Identified as [[Horus]] in his form as a young child. Egyptian statues represent him as a naked boy with his finger on his mouth, a hieroglyph for "child" and the later notion of “silence.” He is also known as the [[Babe in the Egg]]. He is representitive of the “silent self” and an individual’s [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Babalon]]'''—The Scarlet Woman, the Great Whore, and the Mother of Abominations. She is the Yoni, the architypical Womb of all Life, the provider of material flesh to clothe our manifested Spirit, Mother Earth, and the Great Sea. Her consort is:

*'''[[Chaos]]'''—the universal generative drive, unrestrained creative power, the primal unformulated substance from which all manifested matter is made, the Fire of the Life Force found in each of us.

*'''[[The Beast]]'''—upon whom the Scarlet Woman rideth, alternatively identified as Aleister Crowley, the whole of Mankind, the [[Phallus]] (both masculine and feminine), and the Vehicle of Life.

*'''[[Ankh-af-na-khonsu]]'''—an actual Priest who lived in Thebes during the late XXVth dynasty of ancient Egypt, around 725 b.c.e. Aleister Crowley assumed the magical identity of this Priest as the living Prophet of the Aeon of Horus, the deliverer of ''The Book of the Law'' (Sabazius, 1998).

*'''The Prince-Priest / The Prophet''' —Aleister Crowley

*'''The Prophet and his Bride'''—Aleister and Rose Crowley.

*'''Asar and Isa'''—Asar is [[Osiris]], the “adorant” and Isa is the Muslim form of Jesus, the “sufferer” and a prophet (though not a messiah).

*'''[[Tahuti]]''' (the Greek [[Thoth]])—the god of knowledge, writing, language, music, the Moon, [[magick]], and occult wisdom.

*'''Because'''— "Now a curse upon Because and his kin!...Enough of Because! Be he damned for a dog!" (AL II, 28-33).

*'''[[Hrumachis]]'''- the Dawning Sun, another name of Horus.

===The Thelemic Canon===

The primary basis of Thelemic doctrine is Liber Legis. However, there is a larger group of writings that are considered to be holy books that further reveal the mysteries of Thelema. These books are:

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib1.html Liber I]: Liber B vel Magi'''—An account of the [[Grade]] of [[Magus]], the highest grade which it is even possible to manifest in any way whatsoever upon this plane.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib7.html Liber VII]: Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli]'''—These are the Birth Words of a Master of the Temple. It's 7 Chapters are referred to the 7 Planets in the following order: Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Sol, Mercury, Luna, Venus.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib10.html Liber X]: Liber Porta Lucis'''—An account of the sending forth of the [[Master Therion]] by the [[A.'.A.'.]] and an explanation of his mission.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib27.html Liber XXVII]: Liber Trigrammaton'''—Being a book of [[Trigrams]] of the Mutations of the [[Tao]] with the Yin and Yang. An account of the Cosmic process.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib65.html Liber LXV]: Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente'''—An account of the relations of the aspirant and his Holy Guardian Angel.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib66.html Liber LXVI]: Liber Stellae Rubeae'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib90.html Liber XC]: Liber Tzaddi vel Hamus Hermeticus'''—An account of Initiation, and an indication as to those who are suitable for the same.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber CLVI]: Liber Cheth vel Vallum Abiegni'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib231.html Liber CCXXXI]: Liber Arcanorum'''—An account of the cosmic process so far as it is indicated by the [[Tarot]] Trumps. The sequence of the 22 [[Trumps]] is explained as a formula of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib370.html Liber CCCLXX]: Liber A'ash vel Capricorni Pneumatici'''—Analyzes the nature of the creative magical force in man, explains how to awaken it, how to use it and indicates the general as well as the particular objects to be gained thereby. [[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib400.html Liber CD]: Liber Tau vel Kabbalae Trium Literarum'''—A graphic interpretation of the Tarot on the plane of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib813.html Liber DCCCXIII]: Ararita'''—An account of the Hexagram and the method of reducing it to the Unity and Beyond. This book describes in magical language a very secret process of Initiation.

*Some consider the larger work, '''[[The Vision and the Voice]]''', to be within the canon of Thelemic Holy Books.

==Symbology==

==Ethics==

==Culture==

==Practices==

Although there are communal ceremonies informed by Thelema, and organizations to support them (of which [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] is the most venerable and extensive), Thelemic religious practice is a mainly individual affair. Crowley composed a few guidelines to the cardinal observances and programs. In ''Liber Aleph'' he lists the following "Means prescribed in our Holy Books" for constant observance:
:*Neglect never the fourfold Adoration of the Sun in his four Stations, for thereby thou dost affirm thy Place in Nature and her Harmonies. ([[Liber Resh]])
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Ritual of the Pentagram, and of the Assumtion of the Form of Hoor-pa-Kraat. (Liber O)
:*Neglect not the daily Miracle of the Mass, either by the Rite of the [[Gnostic Catholic Church]] ([[The Gnostic Mass|Liber XV]]), or that of the Phoenix (Mass of the Phoenix).
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Mass of the Holy Ghost, as Nature Herself prompteth thee.
:*Travel much also in the Empyrean in thy [[Body of Light]], seeking ever Abodes more fiery and lucid.
:*Finally, excercise the Eight Limbs of [[Yoga]].

In ''Magick in Theory and Practice'', there is a similar regimen with slightly different emphasis. First he recommends yoga, with the method explained in "Part I" of ''Book Four''. Then he lists "the most important drill practices" of magick, as follows:
:*The fortification of the Body of Light by the constant use of rituals, or by the assumption of God-forms, and by the right use of the [[Eucharist]].
:*The [[purification]] and [[consecration]] and exaltation of that Body by the use of rituals of [[invocation]].
:*The education of that Body by experience. It must learn to travel on every plane; to break down every obstacle which may confront it. This experience must be as systematic and regular as possible; for it is of no use merely to travel to the spheres of [[The Planets:Jupiter|Jupiter]] and [[The Planets:Venus|Venus]], or even to explore the 30 [[Aethyr]]s, neglecting unattractive meridians.

In addition to these programs, there are some other basic practices usually involved in Thelema. The first of these is the [[magical record]] or diary. "Verily, it is better to fail in the magical ceremony than to fail in writing down an accurate record of it." (''Book Four'') The second is the recital of the formula of "Will" prior to the main meal of the day. This practice consists of a simple set of statements (sometimes presented as a dialogue with others) declaring that it is the individual's will to eat and drink, in order to fortify his body, in order to accomplish the [[Great Work]]. Variants on this recital exist for initiates in different circumstances (see Liber 185).

==Antecedents of Thelema==

Although the modern Thelemic movement traces its origins to the work of Aleister Crowley, he pointed to important antecedents to his use of the term, and other instances are apparent from research. The word is of some consequence in the original Greek Christian scriptures. Crowley also acknowledged Saint Augustine's "Love, and do what thou wilt" as a premonition of the Law of Thelema. In the Renaissance, a character named "Thelemia" represents will or desire in the ''Hypnerotomachia Poliphili'' of the Dominican monk Francesco Colonna. Colonna's work was, in turn, a great influence on the Franciscan monk Francois Rabelais, whose ''Gargantua and Pantagruel'' includes an "Abbey of Theleme" which Crowley embraced as a direct precursor to modern Thelema.

===Thelema in the Bible===

Thelema appears in the [[Holy Bible]] referring to divine will, human will, and even the will of the [[Satan|Devil]]. One well-known example is from “The Lord’s Prayer” in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will (Θελημα) be done, On earth as it is in heaven.” Some other quotes from the Bible are:

:“He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, "My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” —Matthew 26:42

:“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” —John 1:12-13

:“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

:"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created." —Revelation 4:11

:"…and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.” —2 Timothy 2:26

===François Rabelais===

The next well-known usage of the word was by [[Rabelais|François Rabelais]], a Franciscan and later a Benedictine monk of the 16th century. Eventually he left the monistary to study medicine, and so moved to Lyons in 1532. It was there that he wrote ''Gargantua'' and ''Pantagruel'', a connected series of books. They tell the story of two giants—a father (Gargantua) and his son (Pantagruel) and their adventures—written in an amusing, extravagant, and satirical vein.

It is in the second book where Rabelais writes of the Abbey of Theleme, built by the giant Gargantua. It pokes fun at the monastic institiutions, since his abbey has a swimming pool, maid service, and no clocks in sight.

One of the verses of the [[Abbey of Thelema Gate Inscription|inscription]] on the gate to the Abbey of Theleme says:

<blockquote>
Grace, honour, praise, delight, 
   Here sojourn day and night. 
      Sound bodies lined 
      With a good mind, 
   Do here pursue with might 
   Grace, honour, praise, delight. 
</blockquote>

But below the humor was a very real concept of utopia and the ideal society. Rabelais gives us a description of how the Thelemites of the Abbey lived and the rules they lived by:

<blockquote>All their life was spent not in laws, statutes, or rules, but according to
their own free will and pleasure. They rose out of their beds when they
thought good; they did eat, drink, labour, sleep, when they had a mind to
it and were disposed for it. None did awake them, none did offer to
constrain them to eat, drink, nor to do any other thing; for so had
Gargantua established it. In all their rule and strictest tie of their
order there was but this one clause to be observed, 
 
''Do What Thou Wilt;'' 
 
because men that are free, well-born, well-bred, and conversant in honest
companies, have naturally an instinct and spur that prompteth them unto
virtuous actions, and withdraws them from vice, which is called honour.
Those same men, when by base subjection and constraint they are brought
under and kept down, turn aside from that noble disposition by which they
formerly were inclined to virtue, to shake off and break that bond of
servitude wherein they are so tyrannously enslaved; for it is agreeable
with the nature of man to long after things forbidden and to desire what is
denied us.</blockquote>

==See also==

*[[The Book of the Law]]
*[[Aleister Crowley]]
*[[Svecchachara]]

==References==

* Crowley, Aleister. Magick Without Tears. Tempe: New Falcon Publications, 1997 (1973).
* Sabazius (1998). [http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/kiblah.htm The Kiblah]. Retrieved June 9, 2004.
* Thriambos, Dionysos. [http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/bible.htm The Utility of the Bible to the Student of Thelema]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).
* Weinberg, Florence M. The Wine and the Will: Rabelais's Bacchic Christianity. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1972.
* Wikipedia (2004). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gargantua_and_Pantagruel Gargantua and Pantagruel]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).

==External Links==

*[http://www.thelemicknights.org/ootmc/rabelais/rabelais.html Rabelais: The First Thelemite]

*[http://www.gutenberg.net/etext98/ggpnt10.txt Gargantua and Pantagruel, by Rabelais]

*[http://mitpress.mit.edu/e-books/HP/index.htm Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, by Francesco Colonna]

[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Religions]]
[[Category:Thelema]]

Talk:Thelema

2005-02-22T22:36:04Z

Paradoxosalpha:

Ash, nice edit on "Different Views." Thanks. [[User:Adityanath|Adityanath]]

== Disambiguation ==

I think this should be split into several different articles to disambiguate usage. I'd suggest:

*[[Thelema]] - overview article
*[[Thelema (formula)]]
*[[Thelema (system)]] (the practical system)
*[[Thelema & Religion|Thelema (religion)]] (the religious aspect)

I would add [[Thelema (history)]], but that should simply redirect to [[History]].

[[User:Adityanath|Adityanath]]

:I don't think it needs to be a full disambiguation page...a section on "See Also" should suffice if someone wants to write more detailed articles. —[[User:Ash|Ash]]

:: Done, wrt Religion. I'm unconvinced that Thelema has a ''single'' "practical system": the systems of A.'.A.'. and OTO differ in important respects, and other systems are possible (and extant) under the general aegis of Thelema. --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

== Other Personalities in Liber Legis, edits ==

I edited the '''Hrumachis''' summary, because it reflected an inaccurate reading of Liber AL. Hrumachis ''is'' RHK, who will "arise" (i.e. vacate the Throne of the Aeon) at the future Equinox of the Gods. "The double-wanded one" is Thmaist (Maat), who is '''not''' Hrumachis. But see how quickly this sort of thing gets pestilential?

Also, how did '''Chaos''' get into this list? Where does that name appear in Liber Legis? --[[User:Paradoxosalpha|Paradoxosalpha]] 16:36, 22 Feb 2005 (CST)

Thelema

2005-02-22T22:24:13Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* The Thelemic Canon */

{{partial}}

'''Thelema''', Θελημα in Greek, means ''will''.

==A brief summary of Thelema==

'''Thelema''' is the name of the religion established in 1904 with the writing of [[Liber AL vel Legis]] ([[The Book of the Law]]) by [[Aleister Crowley]] (1875-1947). The Law is summed up in two phrases from the Book:
*“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law” (AL I:40) and
*“Love is the law, love under will” (AL I:57).
The central goal of a Thelemite (as adherents refer to themselves) is to discover and perform his or her [[True Will]], which is generally defined as the innermost Nature or proper life course of the individual. The techniques used to achieve this goal fall under the heading of [[Magick]].

There are also strong philosophical, political, and cultural aspects to Thelema. Although there is no strict literal doctrine concerning these matters, Aleister Crowley wrote many articles and essays regarding his ideas about the proper behavior of individual Thelemites and for an ideal Thelemic society. These ideas have continued to develop into modern times. However, the primary themes involve personal freedom, a recognition that men and women have an inherent divine nature, and that Love is the basis of the [[Great Work]].

==Theology of Thelema==

===The Speakers of Liber AL===

Liber Legis is composed of three chapters that introduce the reader to three primary godforms:

#'''[[Nuit]]''' (Nu) is the speaker in Chapter I. She is the eternally-extended Eqyptian goddess of the night sky and the Queen of Space. Nuit is the complement of Hadit.
#'''[[Hadit]]''' (Had) is presented in Chapter II. He is the winged disk, the infinitely contracted point, and the source of Life. Hadit is the complement of Nuit.
#'''[[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]]''' (Horus) speaks in Chapter III. He is the Hawk-Headed Lord of the current [[Aeon]], also called the Crowned and Conquering Child. ([[Ra]] is the Egyptian sun god).

In his popular commentary to Liber Legis, Crowley points out that "There are to be no regular temples of Nuit and Hadit, for They are incommensurables and absolutes." Ra-Hoor-Khuit is therefore the "visible object of worship" presented by the Book.

===Other personalities presented in Liber Legis===

*'''[[Aiwass]]'''—This is the being that dictated Liber Legis according to Aleister Crowley—he considered Aiwass to be his personal [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Heru-ra-ha]]''' (Heru is another name for Horus)— a composite deity composed of [[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]] and Hoor-par-kraat.

*'''[[Hoor-par-kraat]]''' (also Heru-pa-kraath, and the Greek god [[Harpocrates]])—Identified as [[Horus]] in his form as a young child. Egyptian statues represent him as a naked boy with his finger on his mouth, a hieroglyph for "child" and the later notion of “silence.” He is also known as the [[Babe in the Egg]]. He is representitive of the “silent self” and an individual’s [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Babalon]]'''—The Scarlet Woman, the Great Whore, and the Mother of Abominations. She is the Yoni, the architypical Womb of all Life, the provider of material flesh to clothe our manifested Spirit, Mother Earth, and the Great Sea. Her consort is:

*'''[[Chaos]]'''—the universal generative drive, unrestrained creative power, the primal unformulated substance from which all manifested matter is made, the Fire of the Life Force found in each of us.

*'''[[The Beast]]'''—upon whom the Scarlet Woman rideth, alternatively identified as Aleister Crowley, the whole of Mankind, the [[Phallus]] (both masculine and feminine), and the Vehicle of Life.

*'''[[Ankh-af-na-khonsu]]'''—an actual Priest who lived in Thebes during the late XXVth dynasty of ancient Egypt, around 725 b.c.e. Aleister Crowley assumed the magical identity of this Priest as the living Prophet of the Aeon of Horus, the deliverer of ''The Book of the Law'' (Sabazius, 1998).

*'''The Prince-Priest / The Prophet''' —Aleister Crowley

*'''The Prophet and his Bride'''—Aleister and Rose Crowley.

*'''Asar and Isa'''—Asar is [[Osiris]], the “adorant” and Isa is the Muslim form of Jesus, the “sufferer” and a prophet (though not a messiah).

*'''[[Tahuti]]''' (the Greek [[Thoth]])—the god of knowledge, writing, language, music, the Moon, [[magick]], and occult wisdom.

*'''Because'''— "Now a curse upon Because and his kin!...Enough of Because! Be he damned for a dog!" (AL II, 28-33).

*'''[[Hrumachis]]'''- the Dawning Sun, another name of Horus.

===The Thelemic Canon===

The primary basis of Thelemic doctrine is Liber Legis. However, there is a larger group of writings that are considered to be holy books that further reveal the mysteries of Thelema. These books are:

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib1.html Liber I]: Liber B vel Magi'''—An account of the [[Grade]] of [[Magus]], the highest grade which it is even possible to manifest in any way whatsoever upon this plane.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib7.html Liber VII]: Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli]'''—These are the Birth Words of a Master of the Temple. It's 7 Chapters are referred to the 7 Planets in the following order: Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Sol, Mercury, Luna, Venus.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib10.html Liber X]: Liber Porta Lucis'''—An account of the sending forth of the [[Master Therion]] by the [[A.'.A.'.]] and an explanation of his mission.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib27.html Liber XXVII]: Liber Trigrammaton'''—Being a book of [[Trigrams]] of the Mutations of the [[Tao]] with the Yin and Yang. An account of the Cosmic process.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib65.html Liber LXV]: Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente'''—An account of the relations of the aspirant and his Holy Guardian Angel.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib66.html Liber LXVI]: Liber Stellae Rubeae'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib90.html Liber XC]: Liber Tzaddi vel Hamus Hermeticus'''—An account of Initiation, and an indication as to those who are suitable for the same.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber CLVI]: Liber Cheth vel Vallum Abiegni'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib231.html Liber CCXXXI]: Liber Arcanorum'''—An account of the cosmic process so far as it is indicated by the [[Tarot]] Trumps. The sequence of the 22 [[Trumps]] is explained as a formula of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib370.html Liber CCCLXX]: Liber A'ash vel Capricorni Pneumatici'''—Analyzes the nature of the creative magical force in man, explains how to awaken it, how to use it and indicates the general as well as the particular objects to be gained thereby. [[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib400.html Liber CD]: Liber Tau vel Kabbalae Trium Literarum'''—A graphic interpretation of the Tarot on the plane of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib813.html Liber DCCCXIII]: Ararita'''—An account of the Hexagram and the method of reducing it to the Unity and Beyond. This book describes in magical language a very secret process of Initiation.

*Some consider the larger work, '''[[The Vision and the Voice]]''', to be within the canon of Thelemic Holy Books.

==Symbology==

==Ethics==

==Culture==

==Practices==

Although there are communal ceremonies informed by Thelema, and organizations to support them (of which [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] is the most venerable and extensive), Thelemic religious practice is a mainly individual affair. Crowley composed a few guidelines to the cardinal observances and programs. In ''Liber Aleph'' he lists the following "Means prescribed in our Holy Books" for constant observance:
:*Neglect never the fourfold Adoration of the Sun in his four Stations, for thereby thou dost affirm thy Place in Nature and her Harmonies. ([[Liber Resh]])
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Ritual of the Pentagram, and of the Assumtion of the Form of Hoor-pa-Kraat. (Liber O)
:*Neglect not the daily Miracle of the Mass, either by the Rite of the [[Gnostic Catholic Church]] ([[The Gnostic Mass|Liber XV]]), or that of the Phoenix (Mass of the Phoenix).
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Mass of the Holy Ghost, as Nature Herself prompteth thee.
:*Travel much also in the Empyrean in thy [[Body of Light]], seeking ever Abodes more fiery and lucid.
:*Finally, excercise the Eight Limbs of [[Yoga]].

In ''Magick in Theory and Practice'', there is a similar regimen with slightly different emphasis. First he recommends yoga, with the method explained in "Part I" of ''Book Four''. Then he lists "the most important drill practices" of magick, as follows:
:*The fortification of the Body of Light by the constant use of rituals, or by the assumption of God-forms, and by the right use of the [[Eucharist]].
:*The [[purification]] and [[consecration]] and exaltation of that Body by the use of rituals of [[invocation]].
:*The education of that Body by experience. It must learn to travel on every plane; to break down every obstacle which may confront it. This experience must be as systematic and regular as possible; for it is of no use merely to travel to the spheres of [[The Planets:Jupiter|Jupiter]] and [[The Planets:Venus|Venus]], or even to explore the 30 [[Aethyr]]s, neglecting unattractive meridians.

In addition to these programs, there are some other basic practices usually involved in Thelema. The first of these is the [[magical record]] or diary. "Verily, it is better to fail in the magical ceremony than to fail in writing down an accurate record of it." (''Book Four'') The second is the recital of the formula of "Will" prior to the main meal of the day. This practice consists of a simple set of statements (sometimes presented as a dialogue with others) declaring that it is the individual's will to eat and drink, in order to fortify his body, in order to accomplish the [[Great Work]]. Variants on this recital exist for initiates in different circumstances (see Liber 185).

==Antecedents of Thelema==

Although the modern Thelemic movement traces its origins to the work of Aleister Crowley, he pointed to important antecedents to his use of the term, and other instances are apparent from research. The word is of some consequence in the original Greek Christian scriptures. Crowley also acknowledged Saint Augustine's "Love, and do what thou wilt" as a premonition of the Law of Thelema. In the Renaissance, a character named "Thelemia" represents will or desire in the ''Hypnerotomachia Poliphili'' of the Dominican monk Francesco Colonna. Colonna's work was, in turn, a great influence on the Franciscan monk Francois Rabelais, whose ''Gargantua and Pantagruel'' includes an "Abbey of Theleme" which Crowley embraced as a direct precursor to modern Thelema.

===Thelema in the Bible===

Thelema appears in the [[Holy Bible]] referring to divine will, human will, and even the will of the [[Satan|Devil]]. One well-known example is from “The Lord’s Prayer” in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will (Θελημα) be done, On earth as it is in heaven.” Some other quotes from the Bible are:

:“He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, "My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” —Matthew 26:42

:“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” —John 1:12-13

:“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

:"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created." —Revelation 4:11

:"…and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.” —2 Timothy 2:26

===François Rabelais===

The next well-known usage of the word was by [[Rabelais|François Rabelais]], a Franciscan and later a Benedictine monk of the 16th century. Eventually he left the monistary to study medicine, and so moved to Lyons in 1532. It was there that he wrote ''Gargantua'' and ''Pantagruel'', a connected series of books. They tell the story of two giants—a father (Gargantua) and his son (Pantagruel) and their adventures—written in an amusing, extravagant, and satirical vein.

It is in the second book where Rabelais writes of the Abbey of Theleme, built by the giant Gargantua. It pokes fun at the monastic institiutions, since his abbey has a swimming pool, maid service, and no clocks in sight.

One of the verses of the [[Abbey of Thelema Gate Inscription|inscription]] on the gate to the Abbey of Theleme says:

<blockquote>
Grace, honour, praise, delight, 
   Here sojourn day and night. 
      Sound bodies lined 
      With a good mind, 
   Do here pursue with might 
   Grace, honour, praise, delight. 
</blockquote>

But below the humor was a very real concept of utopia and the ideal society. Rabelais gives us a description of how the Thelemites of the Abbey lived and the rules they lived by:

<blockquote>All their life was spent not in laws, statutes, or rules, but according to
their own free will and pleasure. They rose out of their beds when they
thought good; they did eat, drink, labour, sleep, when they had a mind to
it and were disposed for it. None did awake them, none did offer to
constrain them to eat, drink, nor to do any other thing; for so had
Gargantua established it. In all their rule and strictest tie of their
order there was but this one clause to be observed, 
 
''Do What Thou Wilt;'' 
 
because men that are free, well-born, well-bred, and conversant in honest
companies, have naturally an instinct and spur that prompteth them unto
virtuous actions, and withdraws them from vice, which is called honour.
Those same men, when by base subjection and constraint they are brought
under and kept down, turn aside from that noble disposition by which they
formerly were inclined to virtue, to shake off and break that bond of
servitude wherein they are so tyrannously enslaved; for it is agreeable
with the nature of man to long after things forbidden and to desire what is
denied us.</blockquote>

==See also==

*[[The Book of the Law]]
*[[Aleister Crowley]]
*[[Svecchachara]]

==References==

* Crowley, Aleister. Magick Without Tears. Tempe: New Falcon Publications, 1997 (1973).
* Sabazius (1998). [http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/kiblah.htm The Kiblah]. Retrieved June 9, 2004.
* Thriambos, Dionysos. [http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/bible.htm The Utility of the Bible to the Student of Thelema]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).
* Weinberg, Florence M. The Wine and the Will: Rabelais's Bacchic Christianity. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1972.
* Wikipedia (2004). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gargantua_and_Pantagruel Gargantua and Pantagruel]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).

==External Links==

*[http://www.thelemicknights.org/ootmc/rabelais/rabelais.html Rabelais: The First Thelemite]

*[http://www.gutenberg.net/etext98/ggpnt10.txt Gargantua and Pantagruel, by Rabelais]

*[http://mitpress.mit.edu/e-books/HP/index.htm Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, by Francesco Colonna]

[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Religions]]
[[Category:Thelema]]

Thelema

2005-02-22T22:23:24Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Other personalities presented in Liber Legis */

{{partial}}

'''Thelema''', Θελημα in Greek, means ''will''.

==A brief summary of Thelema==

'''Thelema''' is the name of the religion established in 1904 with the writing of [[Liber AL vel Legis]] ([[The Book of the Law]]) by [[Aleister Crowley]] (1875-1947). The Law is summed up in two phrases from the Book:
*“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law” (AL I:40) and
*“Love is the law, love under will” (AL I:57).
The central goal of a Thelemite (as adherents refer to themselves) is to discover and perform his or her [[True Will]], which is generally defined as the innermost Nature or proper life course of the individual. The techniques used to achieve this goal fall under the heading of [[Magick]].

There are also strong philosophical, political, and cultural aspects to Thelema. Although there is no strict literal doctrine concerning these matters, Aleister Crowley wrote many articles and essays regarding his ideas about the proper behavior of individual Thelemites and for an ideal Thelemic society. These ideas have continued to develop into modern times. However, the primary themes involve personal freedom, a recognition that men and women have an inherent divine nature, and that Love is the basis of the [[Great Work]].

==Theology of Thelema==

===The Speakers of Liber AL===

Liber Legis is composed of three chapters that introduce the reader to three primary godforms:

#'''[[Nuit]]''' (Nu) is the speaker in Chapter I. She is the eternally-extended Eqyptian goddess of the night sky and the Queen of Space. Nuit is the complement of Hadit.
#'''[[Hadit]]''' (Had) is presented in Chapter II. He is the winged disk, the infinitely contracted point, and the source of Life. Hadit is the complement of Nuit.
#'''[[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]]''' (Horus) speaks in Chapter III. He is the Hawk-Headed Lord of the current [[Aeon]], also called the Crowned and Conquering Child. ([[Ra]] is the Egyptian sun god).

In his popular commentary to Liber Legis, Crowley points out that "There are to be no regular temples of Nuit and Hadit, for They are incommensurables and absolutes." Ra-Hoor-Khuit is therefore the "visible object of worship" presented by the Book.

===Other personalities presented in Liber Legis===

*'''[[Aiwass]]'''—This is the being that dictated Liber Legis according to Aleister Crowley—he considered Aiwass to be his personal [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Heru-ra-ha]]''' (Heru is another name for Horus)— a composite deity composed of [[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]] and Hoor-par-kraat.

*'''[[Hoor-par-kraat]]''' (also Heru-pa-kraath, and the Greek god [[Harpocrates]])—Identified as [[Horus]] in his form as a young child. Egyptian statues represent him as a naked boy with his finger on his mouth, a hieroglyph for "child" and the later notion of “silence.” He is also known as the [[Babe in the Egg]]. He is representitive of the “silent self” and an individual’s [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Babalon]]'''—The Scarlet Woman, the Great Whore, and the Mother of Abominations. She is the Yoni, the architypical Womb of all Life, the provider of material flesh to clothe our manifested Spirit, Mother Earth, and the Great Sea. Her consort is:

*'''[[Chaos]]'''—the universal generative drive, unrestrained creative power, the primal unformulated substance from which all manifested matter is made, the Fire of the Life Force found in each of us.

*'''[[The Beast]]'''—upon whom the Scarlet Woman rideth, alternatively identified as Aleister Crowley, the whole of Mankind, the [[Phallus]] (both masculine and feminine), and the Vehicle of Life.

*'''[[Ankh-af-na-khonsu]]'''—an actual Priest who lived in Thebes during the late XXVth dynasty of ancient Egypt, around 725 b.c.e. Aleister Crowley assumed the magical identity of this Priest as the living Prophet of the Aeon of Horus, the deliverer of ''The Book of the Law'' (Sabazius, 1998).

*'''The Prince-Priest / The Prophet''' —Aleister Crowley

*'''The Prophet and his Bride'''—Aleister and Rose Crowley.

*'''Asar and Isa'''—Asar is [[Osiris]], the “adorant” and Isa is the Muslim form of Jesus, the “sufferer” and a prophet (though not a messiah).

*'''[[Tahuti]]''' (the Greek [[Thoth]])—the god of knowledge, writing, language, music, the Moon, [[magick]], and occult wisdom.

*'''Because'''— "Now a curse upon Because and his kin!...Enough of Because! Be he damned for a dog!" (AL II, 28-33).

*'''[[Hrumachis]]'''- the Dawning Sun, another name of Horus.

===The Thelemic Canon===

The primary source of Thelemic theology is Liber Legis. However, there is a larger group of writings that are considered to be holy books that further reveal the mysteries of Thelema. These books are:

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib1.html Liber I]: Liber B vel Magi'''—An account of the [[Grade]] of [[Magus]], the highest grade which it is even possible to manifest in any way whatsoever upon this plane.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib7.html Liber VII]: Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli]'''—These are the Birth Words of a Master of the Temple. It's 7 Chapters are referred to the 7 Planets in the following order: Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Sol, Mercury, Luna, Venus.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib10.html Liber X]: Liber Porta Lucis'''—An account of the sending forth of the [[Master Therion]] by the [[A.'.A.'.]] and an explanation of his mission.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib27.html Liber XXVII]: Liber Trigrammaton'''—Being a book of [[Trigrams]] of the Mutations of the [[Tao]] with the Yin and Yang. An account of the Cosmic process.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib65.html Liber LXV]: Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente'''—An account of the relations of the aspirant and his Holy Guardian Angel.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib66.html Liber LXVI]: Liber Stellae Rubeae'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib90.html Liber XC]: Liber Tzaddi vel Hamus Hermeticus'''—An account of Initiation, and an indication as to those who are suitable for the same.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber CLVI]: Liber Cheth vel Vallum Abiegni'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib231.html Liber CCXXXI]: Liber Arcanorum'''—An account of the cosmic process so far as it is indicated by the [[Tarot]] Trumps. The sequence of the 22 [[Trumps]] is explained as a formula of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib370.html Liber CCCLXX]: Liber A'ash vel Capricorni Pneumatici'''—Analyzes the nature of the creative magical force in man, explains how to awaken it, how to use it and indicates the general as well as the particular objects to be gained thereby. [[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib400.html Liber CD]: Liber Tau vel Kabbalae Trium Literarum'''—A graphic interpretation of the Tarot on the plane of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib813.html Liber DCCCXIII]: Ararita'''—An account of the Hexagram and the method of reducing it to the Unity and Beyond. This book describes in magical language a very secret process of Initiation.

*Some consider the larger work, '''[[The Vision and the Voice]]''', to be within the canon of Thelemic Holy Books.

==Symbology==

==Ethics==

==Culture==

==Practices==

Although there are communal ceremonies informed by Thelema, and organizations to support them (of which [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] is the most venerable and extensive), Thelemic religious practice is a mainly individual affair. Crowley composed a few guidelines to the cardinal observances and programs. In ''Liber Aleph'' he lists the following "Means prescribed in our Holy Books" for constant observance:
:*Neglect never the fourfold Adoration of the Sun in his four Stations, for thereby thou dost affirm thy Place in Nature and her Harmonies. ([[Liber Resh]])
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Ritual of the Pentagram, and of the Assumtion of the Form of Hoor-pa-Kraat. (Liber O)
:*Neglect not the daily Miracle of the Mass, either by the Rite of the [[Gnostic Catholic Church]] ([[The Gnostic Mass|Liber XV]]), or that of the Phoenix (Mass of the Phoenix).
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Mass of the Holy Ghost, as Nature Herself prompteth thee.
:*Travel much also in the Empyrean in thy [[Body of Light]], seeking ever Abodes more fiery and lucid.
:*Finally, excercise the Eight Limbs of [[Yoga]].

In ''Magick in Theory and Practice'', there is a similar regimen with slightly different emphasis. First he recommends yoga, with the method explained in "Part I" of ''Book Four''. Then he lists "the most important drill practices" of magick, as follows:
:*The fortification of the Body of Light by the constant use of rituals, or by the assumption of God-forms, and by the right use of the [[Eucharist]].
:*The [[purification]] and [[consecration]] and exaltation of that Body by the use of rituals of [[invocation]].
:*The education of that Body by experience. It must learn to travel on every plane; to break down every obstacle which may confront it. This experience must be as systematic and regular as possible; for it is of no use merely to travel to the spheres of [[The Planets:Jupiter|Jupiter]] and [[The Planets:Venus|Venus]], or even to explore the 30 [[Aethyr]]s, neglecting unattractive meridians.

In addition to these programs, there are some other basic practices usually involved in Thelema. The first of these is the [[magical record]] or diary. "Verily, it is better to fail in the magical ceremony than to fail in writing down an accurate record of it." (''Book Four'') The second is the recital of the formula of "Will" prior to the main meal of the day. This practice consists of a simple set of statements (sometimes presented as a dialogue with others) declaring that it is the individual's will to eat and drink, in order to fortify his body, in order to accomplish the [[Great Work]]. Variants on this recital exist for initiates in different circumstances (see Liber 185).

==Antecedents of Thelema==

Although the modern Thelemic movement traces its origins to the work of Aleister Crowley, he pointed to important antecedents to his use of the term, and other instances are apparent from research. The word is of some consequence in the original Greek Christian scriptures. Crowley also acknowledged Saint Augustine's "Love, and do what thou wilt" as a premonition of the Law of Thelema. In the Renaissance, a character named "Thelemia" represents will or desire in the ''Hypnerotomachia Poliphili'' of the Dominican monk Francesco Colonna. Colonna's work was, in turn, a great influence on the Franciscan monk Francois Rabelais, whose ''Gargantua and Pantagruel'' includes an "Abbey of Theleme" which Crowley embraced as a direct precursor to modern Thelema.

===Thelema in the Bible===

Thelema appears in the [[Holy Bible]] referring to divine will, human will, and even the will of the [[Satan|Devil]]. One well-known example is from “The Lord’s Prayer” in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will (Θελημα) be done, On earth as it is in heaven.” Some other quotes from the Bible are:

:“He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, "My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” —Matthew 26:42

:“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” —John 1:12-13

:“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

:"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created." —Revelation 4:11

:"…and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.” —2 Timothy 2:26

===François Rabelais===

The next well-known usage of the word was by [[Rabelais|François Rabelais]], a Franciscan and later a Benedictine monk of the 16th century. Eventually he left the monistary to study medicine, and so moved to Lyons in 1532. It was there that he wrote ''Gargantua'' and ''Pantagruel'', a connected series of books. They tell the story of two giants—a father (Gargantua) and his son (Pantagruel) and their adventures—written in an amusing, extravagant, and satirical vein.

It is in the second book where Rabelais writes of the Abbey of Theleme, built by the giant Gargantua. It pokes fun at the monastic institiutions, since his abbey has a swimming pool, maid service, and no clocks in sight.

One of the verses of the [[Abbey of Thelema Gate Inscription|inscription]] on the gate to the Abbey of Theleme says:

<blockquote>
Grace, honour, praise, delight, 
   Here sojourn day and night. 
      Sound bodies lined 
      With a good mind, 
   Do here pursue with might 
   Grace, honour, praise, delight. 
</blockquote>

But below the humor was a very real concept of utopia and the ideal society. Rabelais gives us a description of how the Thelemites of the Abbey lived and the rules they lived by:

<blockquote>All their life was spent not in laws, statutes, or rules, but according to
their own free will and pleasure. They rose out of their beds when they
thought good; they did eat, drink, labour, sleep, when they had a mind to
it and were disposed for it. None did awake them, none did offer to
constrain them to eat, drink, nor to do any other thing; for so had
Gargantua established it. In all their rule and strictest tie of their
order there was but this one clause to be observed, 
 
''Do What Thou Wilt;'' 
 
because men that are free, well-born, well-bred, and conversant in honest
companies, have naturally an instinct and spur that prompteth them unto
virtuous actions, and withdraws them from vice, which is called honour.
Those same men, when by base subjection and constraint they are brought
under and kept down, turn aside from that noble disposition by which they
formerly were inclined to virtue, to shake off and break that bond of
servitude wherein they are so tyrannously enslaved; for it is agreeable
with the nature of man to long after things forbidden and to desire what is
denied us.</blockquote>

==See also==

*[[The Book of the Law]]
*[[Aleister Crowley]]
*[[Svecchachara]]

==References==

* Crowley, Aleister. Magick Without Tears. Tempe: New Falcon Publications, 1997 (1973).
* Sabazius (1998). [http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/kiblah.htm The Kiblah]. Retrieved June 9, 2004.
* Thriambos, Dionysos. [http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/bible.htm The Utility of the Bible to the Student of Thelema]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).
* Weinberg, Florence M. The Wine and the Will: Rabelais's Bacchic Christianity. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1972.
* Wikipedia (2004). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gargantua_and_Pantagruel Gargantua and Pantagruel]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).

==External Links==

*[http://www.thelemicknights.org/ootmc/rabelais/rabelais.html Rabelais: The First Thelemite]

*[http://www.gutenberg.net/etext98/ggpnt10.txt Gargantua and Pantagruel, by Rabelais]

*[http://mitpress.mit.edu/e-books/HP/index.htm Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, by Francesco Colonna]

[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Religions]]
[[Category:Thelema]]

Thelema

2005-02-22T22:21:45Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* The Godforms of Thelema */

{{partial}}

'''Thelema''', Θελημα in Greek, means ''will''.

==A brief summary of Thelema==

'''Thelema''' is the name of the religion established in 1904 with the writing of [[Liber AL vel Legis]] ([[The Book of the Law]]) by [[Aleister Crowley]] (1875-1947). The Law is summed up in two phrases from the Book:
*“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law” (AL I:40) and
*“Love is the law, love under will” (AL I:57).
The central goal of a Thelemite (as adherents refer to themselves) is to discover and perform his or her [[True Will]], which is generally defined as the innermost Nature or proper life course of the individual. The techniques used to achieve this goal fall under the heading of [[Magick]].

There are also strong philosophical, political, and cultural aspects to Thelema. Although there is no strict literal doctrine concerning these matters, Aleister Crowley wrote many articles and essays regarding his ideas about the proper behavior of individual Thelemites and for an ideal Thelemic society. These ideas have continued to develop into modern times. However, the primary themes involve personal freedom, a recognition that men and women have an inherent divine nature, and that Love is the basis of the [[Great Work]].

==Theology of Thelema==

===The Speakers of Liber AL===

Liber Legis is composed of three chapters that introduce the reader to three primary godforms:

#'''[[Nuit]]''' (Nu) is the speaker in Chapter I. She is the eternally-extended Eqyptian goddess of the night sky and the Queen of Space. Nuit is the complement of Hadit.
#'''[[Hadit]]''' (Had) is presented in Chapter II. He is the winged disk, the infinitely contracted point, and the source of Life. Hadit is the complement of Nuit.
#'''[[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]]''' (Horus) speaks in Chapter III. He is the Hawk-Headed Lord of the current [[Aeon]], also called the Crowned and Conquering Child. ([[Ra]] is the Egyptian sun god).

In his popular commentary to Liber Legis, Crowley points out that "There are to be no regular temples of Nuit and Hadit, for They are incommensurables and absolutes." Ra-Hoor-Khuit is therefore the "visible object of worship" presented by the Book.

===Other personalities presented in Liber Legis===

*'''[[Aiwass]]'''—This is the being that dictated Liber Legis according to Aleister Crowley—he considered Aiwass to be his personal [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Heru-ra-ha]]''' (Heru is another name for Horus)— a composite deity composed of [[Ra-Hoor-Khuit]] and Hoor-par-kraat.

*'''[[Hoor-par-kraat]]''' (also Heru-pa-kraath, and the Greek god [[Harpocrates]])—Identified as [[Horus]] in his form as a young child. Egyptian statues represent him as a naked boy with his finger on his mouth, a hieroglyph for "child" and the later notion of “silence.” He is also known as the [[Babe in the Egg]]. He is representitive of the “silent self” and an individual’s [[Holy Guardian Angel]].

*'''[[Babalon]]'''—The Scarlet Woman, the Great Whore, and the Mother of Abominations. She is the Yoni, the architypical Womb of all Life, the provider of material flesh to clothe our manifested Spirit, Mother Earth, and the Great Sea. Her consort is:

*'''[[Chaos]]'''—the universal generative drive, unrestrained creative power, the primal unformulated substance from which all manifested matter is made, the Fire of the Life Force found in each of us.

*'''[[The Beast]]'''—upon whom the Scarlet Woman rideth, alternatively identified as Aleister Crowley, the whole of Mankind, the [[Phallus]] (both masculine and feminine), and the Vehicle of Life.

*'''[[Ankh-af-na-khonsu]]'''—an actual Priest who lived in Thebes during the late XXVth dynasty of ancient Egypt, around 725 b.c.e. Aleister Crowley assumed the magical identity of this Priest as the living Prophet of the Aeon of Horus, the deliverer of ''The Book of the Law'' (Sabazius, 1998).

*'''The Prince-Priest / The Prophet''' —Aleister Crowley

*'''The Prophet and his Bride'''—Aleister and Rose Crowley.

*'''Asar and Isa'''—Asar is [[Osiris]], the “adorant” and Isa is the Muslim form of Jesus, the “sufferer” and a prophet (though not a messiah).

*'''[[Tahuti]]''' (the Greek [[Thoth]])—the god of knowledge, writing, language, music, the Moon, [[magick]], and occult wisdom.

*'''Because'''— "Now a curse upon Because and his kin!...Enough of Because! Be he damned for a dog!" (AL II, 28-33).

*'''[[Hrumachis]]'''—The “double-wanded one,” the Dawning Sun, the Holy Spirit of Truth, the god of Justice who will assume the Throne at the end of the Aeon of Horus.

===The Thelemic Canon===

The primary source of Thelemic theology is Liber Legis. However, there is a larger group of writings that are considered to be holy books that further reveal the mysteries of Thelema. These books are:

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib1.html Liber I]: Liber B vel Magi'''—An account of the [[Grade]] of [[Magus]], the highest grade which it is even possible to manifest in any way whatsoever upon this plane.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib7.html Liber VII]: Liber Liberi vel Lapidis Lazuli]'''—These are the Birth Words of a Master of the Temple. It's 7 Chapters are referred to the 7 Planets in the following order: Mars, Saturn, Jupiter, Sol, Mercury, Luna, Venus.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib10.html Liber X]: Liber Porta Lucis'''—An account of the sending forth of the [[Master Therion]] by the [[A.'.A.'.]] and an explanation of his mission.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib27.html Liber XXVII]: Liber Trigrammaton'''—Being a book of [[Trigrams]] of the Mutations of the [[Tao]] with the Yin and Yang. An account of the Cosmic process.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib65.html Liber LXV]: Liber Cordis Cincti Serpente'''—An account of the relations of the aspirant and his Holy Guardian Angel.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib66.html Liber LXVI]: Liber Stellae Rubeae'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib90.html Liber XC]: Liber Tzaddi vel Hamus Hermeticus'''—An account of Initiation, and an indication as to those who are suitable for the same.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib156.html Liber CLVI]: Liber Cheth vel Vallum Abiegni'''—[[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib231.html Liber CCXXXI]: Liber Arcanorum'''—An account of the cosmic process so far as it is indicated by the [[Tarot]] Trumps. The sequence of the 22 [[Trumps]] is explained as a formula of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib370.html Liber CCCLXX]: Liber A'ash vel Capricorni Pneumatici'''—Analyzes the nature of the creative magical force in man, explains how to awaken it, how to use it and indicates the general as well as the particular objects to be gained thereby. [[Sex Magick|Sexual Magick]] veiled in symbolism.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib400.html Liber CD]: Liber Tau vel Kabbalae Trium Literarum'''—A graphic interpretation of the Tarot on the plane of Initiation.

*'''[http://www.hermetic.com/crowley/libers/lib813.html Liber DCCCXIII]: Ararita'''—An account of the Hexagram and the method of reducing it to the Unity and Beyond. This book describes in magical language a very secret process of Initiation.

*Some consider the larger work, '''[[The Vision and the Voice]]''', to be within the canon of Thelemic Holy Books.

==Symbology==

==Ethics==

==Culture==

==Practices==

Although there are communal ceremonies informed by Thelema, and organizations to support them (of which [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] is the most venerable and extensive), Thelemic religious practice is a mainly individual affair. Crowley composed a few guidelines to the cardinal observances and programs. In ''Liber Aleph'' he lists the following "Means prescribed in our Holy Books" for constant observance:
:*Neglect never the fourfold Adoration of the Sun in his four Stations, for thereby thou dost affirm thy Place in Nature and her Harmonies. ([[Liber Resh]])
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Ritual of the Pentagram, and of the Assumtion of the Form of Hoor-pa-Kraat. (Liber O)
:*Neglect not the daily Miracle of the Mass, either by the Rite of the [[Gnostic Catholic Church]] ([[The Gnostic Mass|Liber XV]]), or that of the Phoenix (Mass of the Phoenix).
:*Neglect not the Performance of the Mass of the Holy Ghost, as Nature Herself prompteth thee.
:*Travel much also in the Empyrean in thy [[Body of Light]], seeking ever Abodes more fiery and lucid.
:*Finally, excercise the Eight Limbs of [[Yoga]].

In ''Magick in Theory and Practice'', there is a similar regimen with slightly different emphasis. First he recommends yoga, with the method explained in "Part I" of ''Book Four''. Then he lists "the most important drill practices" of magick, as follows:
:*The fortification of the Body of Light by the constant use of rituals, or by the assumption of God-forms, and by the right use of the [[Eucharist]].
:*The [[purification]] and [[consecration]] and exaltation of that Body by the use of rituals of [[invocation]].
:*The education of that Body by experience. It must learn to travel on every plane; to break down every obstacle which may confront it. This experience must be as systematic and regular as possible; for it is of no use merely to travel to the spheres of [[The Planets:Jupiter|Jupiter]] and [[The Planets:Venus|Venus]], or even to explore the 30 [[Aethyr]]s, neglecting unattractive meridians.

In addition to these programs, there are some other basic practices usually involved in Thelema. The first of these is the [[magical record]] or diary. "Verily, it is better to fail in the magical ceremony than to fail in writing down an accurate record of it." (''Book Four'') The second is the recital of the formula of "Will" prior to the main meal of the day. This practice consists of a simple set of statements (sometimes presented as a dialogue with others) declaring that it is the individual's will to eat and drink, in order to fortify his body, in order to accomplish the [[Great Work]]. Variants on this recital exist for initiates in different circumstances (see Liber 185).

==Antecedents of Thelema==

Although the modern Thelemic movement traces its origins to the work of Aleister Crowley, he pointed to important antecedents to his use of the term, and other instances are apparent from research. The word is of some consequence in the original Greek Christian scriptures. Crowley also acknowledged Saint Augustine's "Love, and do what thou wilt" as a premonition of the Law of Thelema. In the Renaissance, a character named "Thelemia" represents will or desire in the ''Hypnerotomachia Poliphili'' of the Dominican monk Francesco Colonna. Colonna's work was, in turn, a great influence on the Franciscan monk Francois Rabelais, whose ''Gargantua and Pantagruel'' includes an "Abbey of Theleme" which Crowley embraced as a direct precursor to modern Thelema.

===Thelema in the Bible===

Thelema appears in the [[Holy Bible]] referring to divine will, human will, and even the will of the [[Satan|Devil]]. One well-known example is from “The Lord’s Prayer” in Matthew 6:10, “Your kingdom come. Your will (Θελημα) be done, On earth as it is in heaven.” Some other quotes from the Bible are:

:“He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, "My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” —Matthew 26:42

:“But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.” —John 1:12-13

:“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

:"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created." —Revelation 4:11

:"…and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.” —2 Timothy 2:26

===François Rabelais===

The next well-known usage of the word was by [[Rabelais|François Rabelais]], a Franciscan and later a Benedictine monk of the 16th century. Eventually he left the monistary to study medicine, and so moved to Lyons in 1532. It was there that he wrote ''Gargantua'' and ''Pantagruel'', a connected series of books. They tell the story of two giants—a father (Gargantua) and his son (Pantagruel) and their adventures—written in an amusing, extravagant, and satirical vein.

It is in the second book where Rabelais writes of the Abbey of Theleme, built by the giant Gargantua. It pokes fun at the monastic institiutions, since his abbey has a swimming pool, maid service, and no clocks in sight.

One of the verses of the [[Abbey of Thelema Gate Inscription|inscription]] on the gate to the Abbey of Theleme says:

<blockquote>
Grace, honour, praise, delight, 
   Here sojourn day and night. 
      Sound bodies lined 
      With a good mind, 
   Do here pursue with might 
   Grace, honour, praise, delight. 
</blockquote>

But below the humor was a very real concept of utopia and the ideal society. Rabelais gives us a description of how the Thelemites of the Abbey lived and the rules they lived by:

<blockquote>All their life was spent not in laws, statutes, or rules, but according to
their own free will and pleasure. They rose out of their beds when they
thought good; they did eat, drink, labour, sleep, when they had a mind to
it and were disposed for it. None did awake them, none did offer to
constrain them to eat, drink, nor to do any other thing; for so had
Gargantua established it. In all their rule and strictest tie of their
order there was but this one clause to be observed, 
 
''Do What Thou Wilt;'' 
 
because men that are free, well-born, well-bred, and conversant in honest
companies, have naturally an instinct and spur that prompteth them unto
virtuous actions, and withdraws them from vice, which is called honour.
Those same men, when by base subjection and constraint they are brought
under and kept down, turn aside from that noble disposition by which they
formerly were inclined to virtue, to shake off and break that bond of
servitude wherein they are so tyrannously enslaved; for it is agreeable
with the nature of man to long after things forbidden and to desire what is
denied us.</blockquote>

==See also==

*[[The Book of the Law]]
*[[Aleister Crowley]]
*[[Svecchachara]]

==References==

* Crowley, Aleister. Magick Without Tears. Tempe: New Falcon Publications, 1997 (1973).
* Sabazius (1998). [http://www.hermetic.com/sabazius/kiblah.htm The Kiblah]. Retrieved June 9, 2004.
* Thriambos, Dionysos. [http://www.hermetic.com/dionysos/bible.htm The Utility of the Bible to the Student of Thelema]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).
* Weinberg, Florence M. The Wine and the Will: Rabelais's Bacchic Christianity. Detroit: Wayne State University Press, 1972.
* Wikipedia (2004). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gargantua_and_Pantagruel Gargantua and Pantagruel]. Retrieved Sept. 17, 2004(?).

==External Links==

*[http://www.thelemicknights.org/ootmc/rabelais/rabelais.html Rabelais: The First Thelemite]

*[http://www.gutenberg.net/etext98/ggpnt10.txt Gargantua and Pantagruel, by Rabelais]

*[http://mitpress.mit.edu/e-books/HP/index.htm Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, by Francesco Colonna]

[[Category:Formulæ]]
[[Category:Religions]]
[[Category:Thelema]]

Israel Regardie

2005-02-22T02:58:29Z

Paradoxosalpha: /* Quotes */

'''Israel Regardie''' (November 17, 1907 - March 10, 1985) was an occultist/psychologist. His magical motto was ''Ad Majorem Adonai Gloriam'' ("To the greater glory of Adonai," a variation on the Jesuit motto ''Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam'').

==Bio==
===Early Life===

Born Israel Regudy to Jewish immigrants in London, Regardie moved to Washington D.C. with his family in 1921 at the age of 13. He developed an interest in occult matters early on and joined ''Societas Rosicruciana in America'' in 1926.

===Association with Crowley===

After reading a copy of ''Book Four'' by [[Aleister Crowley]], Regardie started a correspondence with Crowley, later moving to Paris to become Crowley's secretary in 1928. In his diaries, Crowley called Regardie "the Serpent." In 1932 Crowley and Regardie had a rather large falling out with snide words said on both sides, but later Regardie made his peace with Crowley.

Regardie was an initiate of [[Ordo Templi Orientis]] under Crowley, and after Crowley's death, he was sometimes seen as a neutral arbiter of claimants to the work of that Order.

Regardie wrote a full-length biography of Crowley called ''The Eye in the Triangle''. Crowley's magical theories and techniques are very evident in Regardie's magical textbook ''The Tree of Life.'' Regardie also served as an editor for many of Crowley's posthumously published books, including ''Gems from the Equinox'', ''The Law is for All'', ''Magick Without Tears'', and ''Roll Away the Stone''.

===Exposing the Golden Dawn===

In 1932 Regardie joined an offshoot of the [[Hermetic_Order_of_the_Golden_Dawn|Golden Dawn]] called Stella Matutina and quickly found the order was starting to fall apart. In order to preserve the knowledge of the order, Regardie took the bulk of the Order's documents and compiled the book, ''The Golden Dawn'' (1937), which earned him the enmity of the other former members and the reputation of being an oath-breaker. In this respect, he was following in Crowley's footsteps; the older man had published condensed versions of the Golden Dawn rituals and instructions in ''The Equinox'' two decades earlier. The greater accessibility of Regardie's book cemented the status of the order's work as a wellspring of occultism for 20th century practitioners.

The various occult organizations claiming descent from the original Golden Dawn and the systems of magic practiced by them owe much of their continuing existence and popularity to Regardie's writings. In 1983, Regardie accepted honorary initiation to the 6=5 Adeptus Minor grade from one such group headed by Pat and Chris Zalewski in Wellington, New Zealand. In the following year, he finished ''The Complete Golden Dawn System of Magic'', a book which featured full ritual texts and instructions from the original Golden Dawn, rather than the later Stella Matutina revisions.

===Psychology Career===

In 1937 Regardie moved back to America and took up the study of psychology and psychotherapy and later started up his own practice. He grew frustrated with the doctrinaire qualities of the various psychological schools, though he claimed a certain adherence to the work of Wilhelm Reich. He was disappointed by his own brief experience with the Jungian school.

Throughout his later life, Regardie was an outspoken critic of the therapeutic establishment in medicine and psychology.

===Death===

Regardie died from a heart attack in Sedona, Arizona on March 10, 1985. He was posthumously awarded the 7=4 Adeptus Major R.R. et A.C. grade by the Thoth-Hermes Temple in New Zealand.

==Quotes==

"It really makes little difference in the long run whether ''The Book of the Law'' was dictated to [Crowley] by preterhuman intelligence named Aiwass or whether it stemmed from the creative deeps of Aleister Crowley. The book was written. And he became the mouthpiece for the ''Zeitgeist'', accurately expressing the intrinsic nature of our time as no one else has done to date." --Israel Regardie 1970 (Introduction to ''The Law Is for All'')

"One of [Regardie's] pet hates, was people associating him with Crowley's brand of Thelemic Magic, and the Book of the Law....I can still recall him thumping the table at dinner one night saying 'Dammit, I'm a Golden Dawn man and not a Thelemite, and I wish people would realize it.'" --Pat Zalewski

"On the other hand, I cannot separate Crowley from The Golden Dawn, because Crowley was The Golden Dawn and The Golden Dawn was Crowley." --Israel Regardie (''An Interview with Israel Regardie: His Final Thoughts and Views'' 55)

"This elaborate Golden Dawn system became part of Crowley's own inner world ... He carried it further than even the Golden Dawn principals had envisaged. I know of nothing within the Order documentary that even hints at the kind of visionary and spiritual experience that Crowley managed to get out of it." --Israel Regardie 1970 (''The Eye in the Triangle'')

==Israel Regardie's Books ==

*Regardie, Israel. (1972). ''The Tree of Life : A Study in Magic.'' York Beach, ME: Samuel Weiser.
*Regardie, Israel. (1989). ''The Eye in the Triangle : An Interpretation of Aleister Crowley.'' Las Vegas, NV: Falcon Press.
*Regardie, Israel. (1984). ''The Complete Golden Dawn System of Magic''. Phoenix, Ariz., U.S.A. : Falcon Press.
*Regardie, Israel. (1985). ''What You Should Know about the Golden Dawn''. (Originally published in 1936 as ''My Rosicrucian Adventure''.) Phoenix, AZ: Falcon Press.
*Regardie, Israel. (1989). ''The Golden Dawn : a Complete Course in Practical Ceremonial Magic''. St. Paul, Minn., U.S.A. : Llewellyn Publications.
*Regardie, Israel. (1998). ''The Middle Pillar''. St. Paul, Minn. : Llewellyn Publications.
*Regardie, Israel. (1970). ''A Garden of Pomegranates''. Saint Paul, Minn., Llewellyn Publications.
*Regardie, Israel. (1970). ''The Art of True Healing''. London : Helios.

==References==

*Hyatt, Christopher S. (1985). ''An Interview with Israel Regardie: His Final Thoughts and Views.'' Phoenix, AZ : Falcon Press.
*Kuntz, Darcy, ed. (1996). ''The Golden Dawn Source Book.'' Edmonds, WA : Holmes Publishing Group.
*Suster, Gerald. (1990). ''Crowley's Apprentice : The Life and Ideas of Israel Regardie.'' York Beach: Samuel Weiser.
*Wikipedia. (2004). [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Israel_Regardie Israel Regardie]. Retrieved Sept. 22, 2004.
*[http://www.hermeticgoldendawn.org/Documents/Bios/regardie.htm Regardie Bio] from the Hermetic Golden Dawn website (The Ciceros' site)

[[Category:Golden Dawn]]