Interpreter of the Hieroglyphics or

PATRIARCH OF ISIS

65th Degree

Notice

This Ritual was in used in the Sovereign Sanctuary of the Ancient

and Primitive Rite led by Bro. John Yarker in England in 1870.

Fraternally
Rui Alexandre Gabirro

The Sublime Council uses three apartments; where there is only

one room it is divided by a black curtain, all the brothers being in
the East.

OPENING

SUBLIME DAI – (Strikes 333. All rise) Illustrious First Mystagogue,

assure yourself that we are covered from the profane intruders.
(The Expert goes outside and knocks with the battery, which
expresses we are covered. He then re-enters and reports to the
First Mystagogue)

FIRST MYSTAGOGUE – The accesses of the Temple are deserted, its

echoes are silent, none can overhear us.

SUBLIME DAI – Who are fit to be present at our ceremonies?

FIRST MYSTAGOGUE – Honest, good, and harmless men.

SUBLIME DAI – Holy things are for holy people; depart hence all
profane.

SECOND MYSTAGOGUE – Illustrious Brother Ceryce: will you

overlook the assembly and assure yourself that the members
comprising it possess the privilege of entry.
(The Expert takes the world of the degree and reports)

SUBLIME DAI – Illustrious First Mystagogue at what hour do the

members of our order assemble?

FIRST MYSTAGOGUE – At break of day. To develop the dogmatic

part, moral and scientific, of the order.
SUBLIME DAI – With what aim Illustrious First Mystagogue?

FIRST MYSTAGOGUE – For the instruction of our brethren.

SUBLIME DAI – What are the first duties of our Rite?

FIRST MISTAGOGUE – Benevolence towards our brothers, justice to

all; to combat the vices which dishonour humanity, to have but one
thought, that of good; and to propagate light and truth.

SUBLUIME DAI- The G/A/O/T/U/ has given us strength to fulfil this

mission let us cultivate science in order to render reason profitable
to save us from the ravages of error. The G/A/O/T/U/ is truth, teach
then the truth.

ALL – (Extending their right hands) We swear it.

SUBLIME DAI – Illustrious Second Mystagogue, what hour is it?

SECOND MYSTAGOGUE – The hour of resuming our labours,

Sublime Dai.

SUBLIME DAI - Since it is the hour of labour, unite with me in

requesting of T.S.A.O.T.U. that it may be conducted conformably to
His laws, and have no other aim than the glory of His name, and
the general good of humanity.

(The S.D. descends and places himself in the middle of the Temple
facing the Orient. Before him is an antique vase of perfumes; at his
side are two Mystagogues, and the Messenger is at the foot of the
altar; the Ceryce or Expert, the Hydranos or Accompanier, and the
Hieroceryx or Guardian behind the S.D. at seven paces distance.
The S.D. inclines himself and in a loud voice gives the following)

PRAYER

ALL – Glory to thee, O Lord. Glory to Thy works. Glory to Thy

Infinite goodness.

(The S.D. Ascends the Orient, the Dignitaries take their places)

SUBLIME DAI – (Sword in hand strikes 333.)

Illustrious Brothers observe the Orient, and attend to giving the
Sign. To the glory of T.S.A.O.T.U. In the name and under the
auspices of the Sovereign Sanctuary of Ancient and Primitive
Masonry, in and for Great Britain and Ireland, I declare this Sublime

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Council, duly opened as Interpreters of the Hieroglyphics, Patriarchs
of Isis, 65th Degree, and at labour, with the aim of securing to all
Brethren the inestimable blessings derivable from the observance of
peace, tolerance and truth.

(S.D. strikes 1. All seated.)

RECEPTION

SUBLIME DAI – Our labours being now open, it is our business to

receive two worthy brothers and confer upon them the title of
Patriarchs of Isis. You will therefore retire to prepare the Neophytes.

(Expert and Orator, whilst the brethren sing a suitable hymn, retire
to the Neophyte and giving the battery 333-4444, bring him in to
the west of

THE FIRST APARTMENT

(It is dimly lighted in unison with the idea conveyed)

EXPERT – Sublime Dai, I bring to you the representative of an

ancient philosopher for mystic instruction.

SUBLIME DAI – Worthy Brother, you come us as an Epoptae of

Science who journeyed the length of the Nile to study theosophy
and demand the revelation of the Mysteries. After he had visited the
Thebiad, the classic land of the fine arts, the Neophyte presented
himself in the Pronaos of the Temple of Memphis with the aim of
attaining initiation; he struck the seven Mystic blows, and the
Ceryce, upon admitting him into the interior presented his right
hand in sign of fraternal friendship, in reply to the accustomed sign.
The Neophyte was admitted into the Temple after a series of
questions upon his past life, which he answered fearlessly. The
visages of the assembled Sages betrayed nothing of the sympathy
inspired in them, by the relation of a career so well filled by ardent
researches in science and virtue.

(The S.D. gives three knocks and all the brethren group themselves
in a triangle of which the S.D. forms the summit. After a short
deliberation, the Patriarchs, having assented to the reception of the
Neophyte, the S.D. gives four knocks, and the triangle opens at the
base to form a right angle.)

Thy request is accorded. Thou goes to undertake a long and painful

voyage; forget not that man in coming into life, bears within him
the germ of some passion which will one day dominate his soul; if

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reason directs these passions by human sympathy and love, the
sentiment of tenderness, of pity and benevolence, of generosity and
of humanity, will very soon become the dominant feeling and thou
wilt be sensible and reasonable. If thou knowest the dignity of
nature, thou wilt be elevated towards its author, if thou knowest
love thou wilt love the First of Beings, thyself, thy country, and thy
kind, and active beneficence will be the guiding passion of thy life.
Forget not that triumph over the passions is the union of wisdom
and virtue with justice and liberty. The Illustrious Ceryce will
accompany thee through many wanderings; to know it is necessary
to learn, to acquire it is necessary to labour; seek and thou shalt
find. Go and may the Spirit of God watch over thee.

SUBLIME DAI – After these words a masked door opened to the

right, and the aspirant followed the Ceryce into a vast vault lighted
by a single lamp suspended from the centre. The walls were so
much decayed that ruin seemed to menace them in every part. The
Aspirant supported by the Ceryce descendent a gentle slope into the
bowels of the earth, in profound obscurity, and he heard a hollow
voice from beneath address him.

(He is led round and stops at First Mystagogue)

FIRST MYSTAGOGUE – Halt! Learn to know how to form thyself for

God, for humanity, of which thou art part, in one word, form thyself
for good, such is the natural law. Presume not to scrutinize Divinity;
the proper study of mankind is man; he is placed in a species of
Isthmus, being of a mixed nature, obscurely habited, with too much
knowledge for the doubting Sceptic, and too much feebleness for
the proud Stoic; he is, as it were, balanced between the incertitude
of acting or of doing nothing, of thinking himself a god or a brute, of
giving the preference to body or spirit; he is born but to die, he
reasons but to wander, and such is that reason that errs equally by
thinking too much or thinking too little; chaos of reasoning and of
passions, all is confused, continually abused or disabused; created
in part to rise and in part to fall. Master of all things, sole judge of
truth; precipitating himself in endless error; the glory, sport,
enigma of the world.

Go, surprising creature, mount where the sciences carry thee,

measure the earth, weigh the air, rule the waves, instruct the
planets in the courses which they ought to observe, correct old time
and guide the sun , raise thyself even to the first good , the first
perfect! Go, and teach eternal wisdom, how it should govern then
returning to thyself, what wilt thou find? Nothing!

(He is led round a second time to Sublime Dai)

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SUBLIME DAI – When these words and questionings were ended a
part of the solid wall suddenly glided away opening free passage in
to a vast garden where a thousand odoriferous flowers rejoiced the
sight and smell, whilst remote music flowed to their ears. Their
steps were arrested at a lake of vast extent, but little depth, which
had to be traversed. Arrived at the opposite shore the Aspirant
beheld before him a splendid monument, with a portico of marble of
Paros, ascended by 21 steps of red granite glistening in the sun, but
to attain this goal so near in appearance, his guide led him from the
portico, of which the marvellous architecture struck him with
astonishment, in order to overrun the girdle of Crypts before
arriving at the only entrance; innumerable paths branched off in all
directions constituting an interminable labyrinth, where the
Neophyte would have wandered a couple of days and nights if he
had not been led like a child; he follows his guide courageously
through the windings of the first Crypts and after having several
times retraced their steps arrived by force of observation before a
vestibule, above which was written “DOOR OF DEATH”.

As soon as they had cleared this asylum a Tephysite went to meet

them and presented the Neophyte with a golden branch, symbol of
initiation, given to Aspirant, and threw over his head a black veil,
(Done), conducting him into a Temple guarded by masked men,
with dog’s head, where 21 Patriarchs were seated. The Neophyte
admired the interior disposition of this edifice, the walls of which
were painted with hieroglyphics and all the signs of the Zodiac; in
the midst of the Sanctuary was a triangular pyramid surmounted by
a sun, at the end a little altar richly decorated, upon which was a
book bound in red, which the Ceryce opened, causing the Aspirant
to write his names, age and quality.

(He writes his name and is led round to Second M.)

SECOND MYSTAGOGUE – Learn then that the Universal Cause acts

with one aim, but by diverse laws, let this great truth be ever
present to thy memory. Consider the world in which thou art
placed, examine the chain of love which unites all here below as
above. See how fruitful nature labours with this object; one atom
attracts another, and that which is drawn attracts again, figuring to
us man’s sympathy with his neighbour. Behold all matter, varied in
a thousand forms, pressing towards a common centre, the general
good. A vegetative movement sustains another life, a form which
ceases is succeeded by another passing alternately from life to
death and from death to life. The Universal Spirit which extends
over all, conserves all and unites all beings. The chain is endlessly
perpetuated and nothing exists by itself.

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Where is the end?
Dost thou think that God has laboured solely for thy good, thy
pleasure, thy ornament, and thy nourishment? Is it for thee that the
lark warbles in the air? No! joy excites its song. Is the gilded
harvest of a fertile year alone for thee? No! a merited part repays
the labour of the ox. Know then that all nature’s children share its
cares, that in the due form of reason and instinct each being
rejoices in the possession of those faculties most convenient to it,
which by their principle tend equally to happiness and find means
for that end; instinct is always serviceable, reason often falls short.
Who has taught the denizens of the woods and fields to avoid
poisons and choose their aliment?
Who has taught the Spider to design its parallels with geometrical
exactitude? Who has instructed the Stork to overrun strange skies
and unknown worlds? Who convokes their assembly and fixes their
day of departure? Who forms their phalanxes, marks their way?
Consider these things well, my Brother; God places in the nature of
each being the seeds of this happiness. It is thus eternal order
reigns from the beginning, and creature is bound to creature, man
to man, all which the vivifying heaven animates, all in which is the
breath of life.

Believe not that in the first days of the world the creatures walked
blindly, it was the reign of God, self love and social love had birth
with the world; union was the bond of all things, and there was no
pride. Amongst the beasts and insects were observed all forms of
society; subterranean towns, and towns constructed in the air upon
the agitated trees. Man contemplated the genius and polity of each
little people; the republic of the ant and the kingdom of the bees;
how that each submits to a single master, and have their separate
cell, their own goods, and their own unvarying laws, which preserve
their state; laws as wise as nature, as immutable as destiny,
teaching to birds the food which the shrubs produce, to animals the
property of herbs. Docile man learned lessons from the lower
creation, towns were built, societies formed, and loving communion
strongly united mankind.

Then each Patriarch, crowned by nature’s laws, was the King and
Pastor of his born state and subjects, who waited upon him as a
second providence; his eye was their law, his language their oracle,
and perfect felicity reigned among them.
There was but one true faith and plan of good government, Love of
God, love of man. Such was the grand harmony which bore I the
world, union, order, and the cement of all. Man like the vine, has
need of support and the strength thus acquired tends to brace that
which gives it. As the planets which turn at the same time upon
their own proper axes and around the sun, so the same two

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compatible movements act in the soul, one of which regards
persons and the other the Universe. Its is thus T.S.A.O.T.U. and
nature has willed, that self-love and social-love confounded make
but one. Thus, my Brother, labour incessantly in order to acquire
the knowledge necessary to ameliorate the human species and
procure that happiness which exists only with virtue.

EXPERT – If thou wilt persevere thou wilt learn amongst us the

Ammonitish language (Ancient Mysteries) and the Hytopadesa, the
most ancient book on the world, repository of wisdom, dost thou
consent to pursue thy route. Look!

(Aspirant replies: I desire it. Then the Expert presents him with a
globe surrounded with a serpent and sustained by the displayed
wings of two vultures.)

NEOPHYTE – I comprehend by this that you give to the earth a

double movement, conformable to the laws of nature and
calculations of reason.

EXPERT – Light thy torch before the arrival of darkness. March with
the torch of reason in search of truth. Pardon everything in another
but nothing to thyself.
Rejoice in justice, but contend with energy against iniquity. Suffer
without complaint. Be good, for goodness enchains all hearts.

(He is presented with mystic staff, and led round to S.D.)

SUBLIME DAI – After this the Ceryce led the Aspirant by the hand
and silence, out of the Temple. Their steps led to the foot of a
sycamore tree, which touching Coptic tradition at this day has
rendered venerable, and which has a symbolical reference, and then
the Ceryce raised the veil of the Aspirant. (Done)

As night advanced they descended a narrow ravine bordered on one

side by rocks and on the other by forest trees; the heavens were
gathering clouds, all was silent and the most profound calm reigned
around. Suddenly a roll of thunder is heard afar off, which echoed
by the woods, acquires such strength that the soul of the Neophyte
is frozen with affright. They finally arrive, but not without trouble, in
a vaulted chamber; the ground trembles under their feet.

The guide turning round says: “Hast thou courage to follow this
route?” As he persists they continue their march in the midst of the
most profound obscurity, until by an issue they arrive by a path
environed with mountains. The lowering clouds disappear under the
shade of an olive wood; a rapid flash has just traced a lozenge of

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fire; the wind becomes more and more impetuous; the heavens half
open at every minute, showing the Elysian fields. After an hour they
arrive at the entrance of a grotto, the end of which is closed by a
brazen door. Near it was a man of venerable figure in striking
costume; the heavens were now again beautiful and the moon
brilliant in her eclat.

The Ceryce said to the Neophyte “Behold that man!”

Zoroaster addressed him, “If in doubt whether an action is good or

bad abstain thee; march in the way of justice.”

The Neophyte having saluted the Sage with respect, advanced with
his guide to the brazen door which opened and closed with such
force that the body of the Neophyte was shaken. As he cast a look
around he discovered to his dismay that the Ceryce has
disappeared.

After a vain search he advances hap-hazard amongst the ruins, at

the times, he seems to see his companion supported against an
obelisk and he dashes in that direction only to find a mutilated
statute; finally he perceives at some distance a brilliant light
towards which he directs himself with precaution. As he advances
the road seems to become narrower, and at length terminates in an
edifice which bars entirely the passage. A single plank conducts to
the entrance, which as the Neophyte ventures upon it, sinks under
his weight.

He now gives himself up for lost, but he is seized by powerful arms

and drawn into a vast chamber, at the entrance of which was
written “ASYLUM OF THE DEATH”. The chamber contained two rows
of coffins and mummies ranged on each side of the wall and in the
midst were several tombs of a triangular form. The voice of an
unseen Stalista addressed him in a deep tone.

MESSENGER OF SCIENCE – The trials you have undergone have no

value in our eyes, if your soul remains defiled by impure thoughts,
and if your life has not been chaste and your actions always guided
by the counsels of wisdom.

ORATOR – (For Neophyte)

I have always endeavoured to vanquish my passions and have often
succeeded in conquering them, because I have learned self respect.

SUBLIME DAI – Essaying to depart from the chamber by a different

door to that which he had entered, a white haired man clothed in a
black robe said to him “Read these words”, the Neophyte did so and

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exclaimed, “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity”; the aged man replied “
Continue thy voyage; learn to die well may the Omnipotent
enlighten thee with his living and pure light, and thou wilt know
truth”. The Neophyte leaves the chamber and guided by a dim
figure, after a long voyage of painful extent reaches, sadly fatigued,
the foot of a splendid portico. The Levites clad in tunics of broidered
linen, advance to aid him over a precipice of immeasurable depth,
thus encouraged he rushes upon the mystic ladder of seven steps,
which trembles under the weight of his body. After freeing this final
obstacle, the Levites placed on this lips of the exhausted Neophyte
some drops of a strengthening liquor and conduct him into the
temple where an imposing sight met his eyes. The temple is
resplendent with light and richly decorated; three suns shine
together upon the clouds of the West, whilst the dawn appears to
enflame the East, and all is golden. The vault is traversed by the
vapours of burning incense, the light clouds of which undulate in
broken waves.

On each side of the edifice are two ranks of warriors armed with
glaives and having the head covered with the Egyptian Mitre. The
Grand Hierophant seated upon a splendid throne of ivory, in the
midst of an estrade covered with a brilliant coloured dais, awaits the
introduction of the Neophyte and with a benign countenance says “
Since thou hast been able to undergo the proofs and trials required
of thee, come and receive the new life which has been prepared for
thee. Adore God the Master of the Universe, he is One and of
himself alone, all beings owe their existence to him, he acts in them
and by them, he sees all and has never been seen by mortal eye”

SUBLIME DAI- Such my brothers was the pomp of ancient initiation

of which the full ceremonies required the revenue of an Empire. If
you desire further instruction you will retire with the Expert who will
conduct your reception into the Temple of Symbols.

(Neophyte retires whilst the room is prepared or the officers enter

the already prepared Temple of Symbols.)

THE SECOND APARTMENT

(Expert strikes 333-4444 and enters at the Western door, when the
following ceremony occurs)

SUBLIME DAI – What is the cause of this alarm?

EXPERT – Despite the storm which now rages without this sacred
Temple of our Ancient Mysteries; the philosopher, Thales,

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accompanied by a brother who like himself has undergone the
required ordeals, trials, purifications and probations, are here
seeking admission to your presence as Epoptae of the Mysteries of
Isis.

SUBLIME DAI – Have all precautions been observed, and have they
undergone due trial of their courage and endurance?

EXPERT – They have. An hour ago when the storm was at its utmost
height and the waters of Lake Moeris were lashed into fury by the
howling winds till they resembled the angry waves of the sea as
seen by the lightning’s glare, a frail bark tossed at the mercy on the
storm contained two Neophyte who landed by the light of our
beacon. Satisfying ourselves by the usual signs and words that they
were the brethren expected here, we led them trough the narrow
rocky pass till we arrived at the entrance of the subterranean
passage. In the darkness, in the dismal abode of the dead, divested
of metals, loaded with chains, alone and unprotected, they have
endured all the horrors and apparent dangers of their dismal
journey with manly courage and determination. In the Subterranean
Hall, guarded by four men wearing helmets fashioned like the heads
of dogs, they have been strictly examined on all subjects and never
were questions answered with greater sagacity. Nothing was elicited
unfavourable to their future progress. They have been presented
with the Mystic staff entwined with serpents, and the password and
sign communicated to them by means of which they would be able
to pass our portal and enter this Temple of Symbols.

SUBLIME DAI – Where are they now?

EXPERT – They have passed the labyrinth and are even now in the
onter halls of the Temple where the Stalista is explaining to them
the meaning of such symbolic mysteries as come within his
province. Isis (nature) caressing her son Horus (toil). The Pelican
nourishing its young with its blood, which represents the earth. The
statutes of science, charity, temperance and truth. The Serpent
vomiting an egg, denoting the universe, containing within itself the
germ of all things developed by the action of the sun. The Serpent
coiled in a circle, emblematic of eternity. The Magpie pulling to
pieces a laurel leaf, symbol of calumny. By this time they await your
will and pleasure.

SUBLIME DAI – Accompanier, let all things be prepared for their

reception and let them enter.

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(Neophyte and the Sublime Orator, who represent Thales, are
brought in and placed at the altar. The following questions are put
the Sublime Dai and answered by the Orator.

Q – Approach and fear not. What seek ye?

A – More light. Is not this Temple of Symbols?

Q – It is. What then?

A - As allegory is the voice of wisdom, I come to learn from you the

language and the hidden meaning of the symbols which you use.

Q – Thou knowest that our Sublime Institution is a science and

mysterious language; that its Temple is placed in the midst of the
desert and its Sanctuary is difficult to open, and that no one can
arrive there until he has been prepared by long and painful
voyages. Reflect, for by this is symbolised that more than zeal is
necessary to penetrate our mysteries, it needs a firm will to find the
way and a sustained courage to follow to the end.

A – I will follow to the end.

Q – Illustrious Brother, fate is so varied and changeable that we

cannot even feel assured of the continuance of thy material
existence. It has forseen that danger; but should the storms of
misfortune assail thee, I am confident that thou wilt remain calm
under the pitiless storm since thou hast the moral strength which
gives to man the heroism of virtue. These Compasses symbolise the
power which sustains the feeble and causes the wicked to tremble.
The lever by the aid of which Archimedes wished to raise the world,
and with which Hercules cleared the earth of those monsters which
ravaged it, are only feeble images of material strength; this sign
which I give thee is that of moral strength; of that which resists
everything impure or corrupt, such as ignorance and superstition;
those vile imposters which the powers of darkness employ to retain
mankind under the yoke of vices that render them impotent and
unable to progress. When thou shalt be upon the ocean of life
amidst the storm of passion, remember that I have placed this iron
instrument in thy hands as a talisman against all temptation to evil.
Then mayest thou cast thine eyes over the past and discover the
germs of virtue with which I have inspired thee; and thou wilt take
the symbolic rule to mark the shortest and easiest way by which to
arrive at the perfect point of the triangle. Behold this triangle, it is a
symbol of the unity of God.
What does thou understand by unity?

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A – Unity is the basis of all order, harmony and life, it is strength.

Q – What dost thou understand by an emblem?

A – The image of an object which represents one thing to the eye

and another to the mind.

Q – What by a type?

A – Hercules was the type of physical strength, Apollo of intellectual

power, both employed for the benefit of mankind.

Q – What are hieroglyphics?

A – A method of presenting ideas by figures of animals, plants and

other objects of nature.

Q – Dost thou regard symbolism as a false science?

A – No! it is one which by means of emblems conveys to the mind
important truths which warm the heart and enlighten the
understanding.

Q – What is reason?

A – The principal light of the mind and the germ of all knowledge.

Q – What is the natural law?

A – Order is heaven’s first law, and T.S.A.O.T.U. governs by general

nor particular law. He wills that happiness should be bestowed upon
all alike and to be happy man must love his brother man.

Q – Has primary matter a real existence?

A – Certainly! Matter exists when the actual form of the body is

destroyed. Primary matter is matter which is uncreated, eternal,
infinite and indestructible.

Q – Then primary matter exists always under some form?

A – Yes. Nature knows no such thing as a vacuum. Matter is

everywhere and it must exist under some form.

Q – What signification do you attach to an Asymptote line?

A – In Geometry it is a right line, besides which is a curved one

which continually approaches it without touching. It is a symbol of

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eternity; the centre of the circumstance represents the Universal
Spirit.

SUBLIME DAI – Most learned Sage, given full sway to thy genius
and thy reason; let thy soul traverse all the mystic regions
enlightened by the sun. See if equality, liberty and fraternity form
not the most precious heritage of humanity. Seek a power in the
order of nature which should have the right to violate this general
law of the creation. Does not the level teach us that all men are
equal and that justice is based on the great law of reciprocity?
Never try to deprive a brother man of that thou wouldst not part
with thyself. This is signified by the Square, the emblem of justice,
it teaches us to render justice to all mankind; fall not into the
bottomless pit of imposture and error.

This Rough Stone is an emblem of the primitive age of man; the

first sacrifices were made upon rough stones, so says traditions.

The Temple with seven columns symbolises the seven planets

known to the ancients. The initiates of ancient times believed that
the soul was immortal but symbolised the road to heaven by seven
gates of lead, pewter, iron, copper, bronze, silver and gold. The
Hermetic Philosophers supposed that the soul must pass through
the seven planets figured by these metals before it was permitted
to repose in the centre of felicity.
The Two Columns at the entrance of the Temple symbolise God and
nature, strength and beauty, justice and charity, intelligence and
wisdom, but are variously interpreted in the different scientific
sections. The Two Pillars placed in the middle of the Temple denote
the two equinoxes.

The Sphynx, seated at the threshold of the temples, figure the

Sages who watched over Egyptian science and philosophy. It
indicates that always the Masonic work must remain secret and
impenetrable to the profane. It moreover symbolises Divine Reason,
prevision and strength, and in its compound form alludes to the
three first grips of the man, the eagle and the lion.

The Griffin pushing a wheel, placed between the columns at the

Temple of Memphis, figures East and West and the dualism of
nature. The Griffin is moreover an emblem of the sun and the four
spokes of the wheel represent the four seasons of the year.

This is a Statute representing wisdom; it has ten arms to remind us

of the ten principal vices which we are called upon to resist during
life.

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The figure having a fore finger on the lips denotes silence, it
teaches that the lips of an initiate should never be defiled by
falsehood, and opened ever to proclaim the truth.

This is a Statute of Isis, it represents teeming nature. Individually

the first legislator of the world, a Sage who came from the banks of
the Euphrates, whose genius was as vast as his imagination was
brilliant.

Behold this man of venerable aspect, with a beard whiter than

snow; it is Zoroaster, who in the midst of a vestibule with a
hundred gates, all conducting to wisdom, is engaged in
concentrating the celestial fire in the focus of a concave mirror.

The Winged bull is a symbol of the air.

The Winged egg or Kneph signifies the world which incessantly

renews itself.
The Phoenix is an emblem of immortality. The well known myth
connected with its destruction and resurrection on the altar of the
Sun at Heliopolis, refers to the Sothic Cycle of 1260 years.

The Pelican is the symbol of the birth and death of nature, and also
of filial love.

A Serpent vomiting an egg is an emblem of the Universe enclosing

all things developed by the star of day.

A serpent biting its own tail is an emblem of the wicked man who
will one day fall a victim to his own crimes.

A Serpent spirally rolled in itself and devouring its tail is the mystic
figure of the eternal revolution of the sun.

Three Emblematic fires burning on three altars before the image of

Isis with her son Horus on her knees, refers to the ternary nature of
all things. Man is body, soul and spirit. The lighted Brazier before
thee, symbolises the impetuosity of youth.
Osiris as the Sun, and Typhon as darkness, symbolise the combat of
the two principles of good and evil; of death, which is a necessity of
life, and of life which succeeds death.

The Sun is an emblem of life, of Deity, of the sacred fire which

ought to enlighten us. The Moon of the divine regeneratrice, mother
and nourisher of men and things. The Planet is an emblem of the
stability of our rite. The Flaming star refer to Sothis and was one of
the last symbols offered to initiates for their meditation, it is

14
composed of two words cabal star, and leb flame. The Morning star
denotes watchfulness.

The Ark is an emblem of man’s soul tossed on a sea of passions and

escaping from a deluge of the vices.

The Sword is a symbol of honour, and the flaming Sword means

that it should only be used in the cause of right and truth.

The Pyramid surmounted by a Sun, expresses ardent research for

science and the virtues which we profess to admire; the first by its
form gives the idea of perfection and the second the virtues which
we propose. The Triangular Pyramid which contains on one side the
eye of providence enclosed in a circle formed by a serpent holding
his tail in his mouth; on the second a death’s head surmounted by a
butterfly; and on the third a figure holding in the right hand a torch
inverted and extinguished and in the left hand an antique burning
lamp, symbolises life and death. The Mythraic pictures represent
two geni’s one of them Young holding a raised torch and the other
Old with his torch reversed and nearly extinguished, implying the
same mystery of life and death, the aged child, Lao-tsen.

A Blind Giant supported by a staff with the radiated eye at the top,
symbolises the people supported by the sceptre of the law.

The Seven Steps of the Altar symbolise strength, labour, wisdom,

virtue, purity of soul, light and truth. The Altar of Perfumes
symbolises the homage which we pay to T.S.A.O.T.U. Its
Geometrical Divisions symbolise the elements, the stars, the
universe, the mechanism of the world. The Tools upon the
Triangular Altar are emblematic of the fine arts.

The Hand and the Tongue enclosed in a ring are two symbols used
by the Hierophants to indicate the mode of softening T.S.A.O.T.U.,
the tongue for prayer and the hand for offering.

The Owl as a jewel presented with the laws, refers emblematically

to man, who at birth is blind as the owl and becomes man but by
the aid of experience and the light of philosophy.

The Palm Tree symbolises the twelve months of the year, because it
produces a branch at every new moon, making twelve in a year.

The Light in the West denotes the flame of virtue and that without
in there is no real happiness; the Light in the North is the emblem
of humanity, it should remind us to practice benevolence. The

15
candlestick with three branches and three lighted candles denotes
the triple luminous essence of the divinity, Wisdom, Justice, Mercy.

The Geometrical symbols and tools are thus interpreted: the

intersecting triangles represent the three great truths and
Trinitarian mystery; the three hieroglyphical letters placed at the
three principal angles signify Faith, Hope and Charity; the
equilateral triangle is a symbol of divine perfection; the lever is an
emblem of the power which man derives from the formulas of
science to accomplish undertakings to which his individual strength
would be inadequate; the compasses mark out the circumference of
a circle, a symbol of the course of the celestial bodies through
space; the rule is an emblem of the precision with which we should
measure our conduct; the trestle board reminds us not to undertake
anything without due reflection, it is emblematical of irreproachable
conduct; Pentalpha, it is an emblem of peace and fraternal
affection; The Square stone placed in the centre of three circles
indicates that our edifice should have for its foundation a perfect
stone , the three circles are emblematical of divinity.

The Book of true light supporting a lamb which holds with its foot
the flag of victory, symbolises the resurrection or revivification of
the sun by his victory over the frosts of winter; this book contains
the allegories, mysteries and symbols, a knowledge of which can
only be obtained by study of the seven sciences denoted by the
seven seals upon the book.

The Golden branch is the symbol of initiation; all ancient tradition

attests this fact, it signifies here that a brother has arrived at the
degree which denotes the perfection of initiation into the mysteries.
The Myrtle is a sacred plant borne as a symbol by the initiates of
Heliopolis. The Sprig of Acacia is the modern substitute, and the
Golden branch which virgil placed in the house of Aeneas has no
other origin.

The Metals are emblems of the vices. The Indian priests before
offering sacrifices to the sun divested themselves of their rings and
their gold and silver ornaments. Our Golden ring worn as an
ornament is the symbol of union.

The Mosaic pavement formed of different stones cemented

together, symbolises the initimate union which exists among the
initiates. The Indented Tassel as a border is the emblem of the
outward ornaments of a temple and of the secrecy in which its
mysterious ceremonies should be enshrined.

16
The Pot of Incense is the emblem of those virtues which should ever
warm the heart of the good Mason. The Pot of Manna of spiritual
science.
The Bee hive is the emblem of industry and obedience. The Anchor
of hope. The Balance is an emblem of justice, chief of all the
virtues. The Olive branch of the peace which should for ever reign
amongst us.
The emblem of the Brazen sea serves for purification by water, it is
supported by twelve bullocks in allusion to the twelve months of the
year, three looking east, three west, three north and three south,
representing the four seasons. The Altar of Shewbread is the
emblem of union. The Tower is an emblem of the pride and
blindness of the children of men , the stones symbolize the passions
and the cement discord. The Ladder reminds us of the virtues which
we ought to posses, the two uprights are called humanity and
charity, for these two virtues ought to be the base of all our actions.
Darkness represents death. Water which nature incessantly renews
is the emblem of purity. Wine of strength. This Stone is called salix,
it is the emblem of the sacred fire. This is the Box of Pandora, it
contains all the evils, but hope remains at the bottom. The Apron is
the symbol of labour, it teaches us that every man has a task to
perform, and that is, to labour for the benefit of humanity. Bread
and Wine refer to the ancient times of simplicity and good faith; on
the first moon which followed the spring equinox, the initiates
assembled in the Island of Meroe to eat in common that which had
been blessed by the Priests, whence we have our Agapae.
This Triangular Plate, marked on the one side with the name of
Jehovah and the words “Truth, Wisdom, Science”, and on the other
side engraved with a serpent coiled in a circle, in the centre of
which is a lion, is also symbolical; the serpent and the lion are
emblems of cunning and strength. The initiated priests were
instructed to combine the wisdom of the serpent with the
harmlessness of the dove. We are informed that the initiates of
Serapis, or Osiris in his risen state and immortal god head, bore on
their persons, the sacred name I Ha–Ho, to indicate that they were
followers of God the Eternal.
So closely were the Ancient and Primitive Mysteries assimilated with
those of Jesus of Nazareth, the lion of the tribe of Judah, that
history informs us, that: “Those who adore Serapis are called
Christians, are devoted to Serapis, and term themselves the bishops
of Christ. There are no chiefs of Synagogues, nor Priests of
Christianity, nor divines nor soothsayers, nor prophesiers, who are
not worshippers of Serapis also”. You have already been instructed
upon this connection in the Chapter and Senate grades, and have
here an intimation, that the Osirian and Christian faith wre in
substance the same.

17
SUBLIME DAI – Illustrious Brother Expert, conduct this Sage to the
Vestibule.

(Expert, Orator and Neophyte retire to the West.)

EXPERT – Sage, thou art said to be the wisest of philosophers;

answer me, who is the wisest of mankind?

ORATOR – He who knows himself the best; the most humble is the
most wise.

The Orator and Neophyte are at the North West. Music. The
brethren form in line North and South. If there is no third apartment
for the members to withdraw to, the curtains at the back of the
Temple are withdrawn, to form

THE THIRD APARTMENT

The Sublime Dai with the officers splendidly attired are in their
places. The incense on the tripod is ignited, and the banners of the
Council are unfurled. This tableau must be arranged with all the
splendour which the resources of the Council will admit of. The
Orator and Neophyte are presented by the Expert.

SUBLIME DAI – Most learned Sage, and you, ny brother, approach

the East. (Done)
Have you well comprehended the bearing of the trials, to which our
forefathers, the Initiates of Egypt, submitted themselves in order to
obtain a knowledge of the mysteries?

NEOPHYTE – I have, Sublime Dai, and I promise never to swerve

from the right line, which ought to conduct me to the perfect point
of the triangle.
(Expert present cup)

SUBLIME DAI - This cup is the symbol of life, drink and forget thy
past, think only on the future. Give to thy body, to thy heart, and to
thy spirit, all the strength, the greatness, and the perfection of
which they are susceptible by their nature.
You will see that in the ancient mysteries initiation was the symbol
of the immortality of the soul. The difficulties, the dangers, the
privations, the darkness, and places full of dread, were emblems of
this terrestrial life. The brilliancy, the pomp, the delicious regions,
which succeeded the proofs, were the image of a second existence.
The Neophyte died to profane life in order to commence one new
and more pure.

18
Conduct the Neophyte to the altar, where he will take his obligation.
(Strikes 333. All rise.)

(The Triangle is formed as at the opening of the reception.

Neophyte places right hand on heart and left on the book.)

To the glory of the Sublime Architect of the Universe. In the name

of the Sovereign Sanctuary and Ancient and Primitive Masonry, in
and for Great Britain and Ireland. Salutation on all points of the
triangle. Respect to the Order.

I A.B. promise, in the presence of T.S.A.O.T.U. and this Sublime

Council, upon the sacred book of the law, fidelity to our venerated
institution. I promise to be submissive to the laws of my country
and to practise all the virtues. I promise to deliver myself to all
good works, and to labour constantly to carry truth, justice, and
peace, to all hearts. I promise to propagate science and the sweet
morality which our rite professes, and to exact nothing from the
Neophyte who would be admitted among us but probity and
knowledge. I promise lastly love and devotion to all my brothers.
May T.S.A.O.T.U. be my aid.

SUBLIME DAI – (Raises him by the right hand, saying)

Arise! Go forth in to the world, and teach the sublime truths which
you have learned this night, but only to those who may prove
themselves worthy of it. Forget not that we are but travellers on
life’s road, and that our common destinations the grave.
Let good deeds mark your course, so will leave behind an enduring
monument to your fame, more lasting than marble, more precious
than gold, a good name. I now clothe you with this sacred
vestment, cordon and scarf. My Brother, forget not that insignia is
the emblem of cur order and your dignity therein. It recalls to those
who wear it the duties which are imposed thereby, and the
necessity to observe the.

I will now communicate to you the signs, token and password of

your rank. (This is done)
Kneel my brother.
(Kneels and S.D. places the naked glaive on his head.)

By virtue of my office, and as the representative of the M.I.S. Grand

Master General, I create and declare you, Patriarch of Isis and as
such entitled to all the rights and privileges thereto pertaining.
Arise. (He arises)
Illustrious Brother Sword Bearer, make the proclamation. (Strikes
333)

19
SWORD BEARER – To the glory of the Sublime Architect of the
Universe. In the name of the Sovereign Sanctuary of Ancient and
Primitive Masonry, in and for Great Britain and Ireland. Salutation
on all points of the triangle. Respect to the Order.

I proclaim our Illustrious Brother ……………………….. elevated to the

dignity of Patriarch of Isis, twenty seventh degree, and call upon all
Illustrious Brethren to recognize him in his high quality as such, and
to render him aid and assistance in case of need. Join me,
Illustrious Brethren, in rejoicing over the happy acquisition made to
our Rite.

(Battery 333-4444. All rise and face East. Orator and Neophyte
stand by the altar. Hymn is sung whilst the brothers make three
journies around the room, those on the North going to the South,
and those on the South going to the North and taking the right. The
first round they salute the S.D. the 2nd time the Neophyte, the 3rd
the East again. They then in parallel lines give the Grand Salute.

SUBLIME DAI – Illustrious Brother Expert, you will conduct the

Neophyte to his seat. Hoff Omphet, watch and be pure.

CHARGE

The precise origin of Masonry, like that of all the grand institutions,
destined to exercise a powerful influence upon the future of
humanity, is lost in the night of time.
In the midst of an uncultivated people, T.S.A.O.T.U. gave birth to a
great genius; this man, the honour of whose birth place has been
disputed by all the nations of antiquity, and who has been named
by turns, Manu,Ammon, Odin, Promethius, assembled the scattered
families, instructed and civilized them; at his voice the primitive
arts arose out of Chaos, and the earth, feebly cultivated, responded
to the efforts of the first cultivators; a second creator of the world,
he announced to them a Supreme God, immutable and eternal; he
spoke to them in his name and spread over them those beneficent
rays of light which T.S.A.O.T.U. gave him. This legislator of the
world, born perhaps, on the delicious banks of the Ganges, or the
Indus, before his eyes were closed, lived to behold the imposing
edifice which he had built.
The descendants if this Sage followed the course which ha had
traced for them; conservators of all the arts and sciences, they
admitted to partake of such knowledge, only such privileged men as
were rendered worth by their virtues and great qualities. From the
bosom of this Corporation of Sages shot forth the light which
illuminated the universe. Not content with making the happiness of
their own country only, these great and wise men assumed the

20
glory of civilizing the rest of the world; from the plains of Persia
they passed into Ethiopia and descended its mountains into the
delta of the nourishing river of Egypt, and instructed the people by
the institution of the mysteries.

Menes was the first King, and flourishing about 5000 years ago, he
united Upper and Lower Egypt, and ordained all the laws of religion
and Masonic Science, making of it one harmonious whole, and
confided the deposit to the highest dignitaries of the sacerdotal
caste. In order to keep from the vulgar, the knowledge of the
sacred dogmas, they enveloped them in allegories, and the better
to baffle the curiosity of the profane adopted hieroglyphics. Thus
confined to the profundity of their sanctuaries, the mysteries were
revealed to but a small number of initiates, who previously
submitted to a series of proofs, and engaged themselves by a
solemn oath to inviolable secrecy.

Each city of Egypt adopted its particular symbol. The eloquent

Memphis, the chattering magpie; Thebes, which elevated its
thoughts to heaven, decorated its banner with the eagle and eye of
fire; Canopus chose the incense vase, to symbolize its homage to
the divinity. The Sages who watched over Egypt, were prepared in
Heliopolis for the solemn mysteries of Memphis and Thebes, where
they guarded the divine fire. Menes terminated in Memphis his long
And glorious career, and his people after his death accorded him
divine honours. Thebes included four magnificent temples, one of
them, according to Diodorus of Sicily, who visited the ruins,
measured a thousand and a half cubits round and forty cubits high.
Thebes was named the city of hundred gates and of a hundred
temples.

The successor of Menes was the Sage Patrusim, who employed

entire army to lay the foundation of one of those gigantic
monuments near to Egypt, which border the desert. Already
beautiful and flourishing, Egypt became yet more great and
powerful under Osymandias. This Patriarch of the Order constructed
near the Nile, the most splendid temple known to the present day;
he had there accumulated all the riches of the known world. He
collected the precious archives of Hermes and placed Menes in the
rank of the Gods. In order to worthily honour this predecessor, he
enclosed his tomb within a circle of gold, ornamental with seven
precious stones of different colours, whilst around extended a vast
circular gallery, where the course of the sun was traced day by day
from the commencement to the end of the year. The sacred fire of
Masonry burned during a thousand years without any capable
attempt being made to extinguished it. This sublime institution
reckoned in the number of its Adepts, Hermes, Orpheus, Homer,

21
Pythagoras, Thales, Hippocatres, Plato, Zaleucus, Lycurgus, and a
crowd of other philosophers of Greece, that daughter of intellectual
Egypt.
Whilst upon the banks of the Nile the august depositaries of the
traditions veiled them from the eyes of their contemporaries, and
revealed them but to a small number of those whom they deemed
worthy of initiation; other Adepts in the interior of Africa,
reassembled the uncultivated tribes, polished their manners,
propagated science, and in short founded our sacred mysteries
amidst the burning sands of Nubia. Meroe, on its side, instructed
the Gymnosophist, Zoroaster founded the schools of the Magi in
Persia and Media.
Amongst all the legislators of the world, we recognise the sublime
ideas of God; in Brahma, Fohi, Zoroaster, Menes, Hermes, MInos,
Moses, Cecrops, Orpheus, Zaleucus, Carinondas, Lycurgus, Solon,
Numa, Pythagoras, Socrates, Plato, Manco Capac, the child of the
sun, who was father of the Incas and legislator of the Peruvians.
These benefactors of the human race deemed it impossible to
present the true light to rude and uncultivated minds. They veiled
under emblems which the multitude construed literally, the truth
which had its devotees in the Temples of Sais, Heliopolis, Thebes,
and Memphis. Thus, as was the case in China, Greece, and ancient
Rome, as also among enlightened people of the modern world,
there were two religions in Egypt; that of the multitude, which
addressed itself more to objects of the external world, and that of
that enlightened who disregarded such objects, or viewed them only
as important in an allegorical sense of sublime significance, covering
great moral truths or great features of nature.

Our sublime institution extended from the plains of Memphis to the

palace of the wise David, whose son Solomon married an Egyptian
princess. Since the day when Solomon built his temple to the glory
of T.S.A.O.T.U., Masonic science extended its beneficent rays from
the Nile to the Jordan; the people joyfully united in the most cordial
fraternity; the sacred fire burned in Chaldea; its pacific torch
enlightened all Judea; in short, peace reigned in all the East, until
the infamous Cambyses carried fire and sword into Egypt, and made
a theatre of death and desolation of it. By this frightful overthrow
civilization was arrested at one blow, and our sublime institution
slept in its turn.

The Masonry of antiquity was comprised within three degrees; but

in the present condition of society, it is impossible that Lodges can
now be so constituted as to convey the whole doctrines of the
sacred science within those limits to the initiates. There is still great
resemblance between these magnificent old ceremonials and
modern craft masonry, in the laws, the ritual, the use of the sacred

22
name of T.S.A.O.T.U. which was given as a talisman and password
to the initiate, to fortify his spiritual nature in the ascent to Hall of
Osiris. On the other hand the Christian church adopted many of the
exoteric symbols of the Egyptians. Isis, the Queen of Heaven, the
mother of all things, the mother, the nurse of the divine human
soul, or Osiris, is represented in pictures as a mother caressing her
son Horus, which was appropriated by the churches of Christendom,
and the ancient fabricators of pictures and images in honour of Isis,
merely rechristened them and devoted their talents to constructing
the same objects in honour of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was
consecrated in then spiritual faith of Egypt, Pontiff of the universal
religion. Another common symbol is the “Sacred Heart”: the spirit of
Osiris was said to become incarnate or born again in the person of
his son Horus, who placed in the arms of his mother Isis was
represented with a flaming heart in his hand. In India the
mediatorial god is represented as wearing a heart on his breast, and
with mark of the wound on his foot, from which he died, and for
which lamentation was anciently made.

During all the period of the middle ages, which embraces several
centuries, our sublime institution gave little signs of life, but it
revived after the Crusades, which had so marked an effect upon the
development of light and social well being; the rude warriors of
Europe were polished by contact with the Saracens, and bore to
their Donjons some relic of the ancient arts and sweet customs of
the beautiful climates of Asia.

Admitted, as we are, into membership with this sublime institution,

let us devote ourselves unceasingly to the attainment of the highest
perfection possible, to the study of science, to the development of
knowledge and of generous ideas, to the accomplishment of our
social duties, and lastly, the practise of all virtues. May our Order
continue to strengthen and expand, until its light encircles the
whole universe.

CLOSING

SUBLIME DAI – Strikes 333. All rise.

Illustrious First Mystagogue, at what hour ought we to suspend our
labours?

FIRST MYSTAGOGUE – When the sun is in the West.

SUBLIME DAI – Then it is now the moment to suspend our labour.

Illustrious Brother Ized, received your mission.
(The Messenger of Science advances to the S.D. who whispers in his
ear the word of the Degree, and having fulfilled his mission with the

23
1st and 2nd Mystagogues, he returns to his place and burns the
incense.

SUBLIME DAI – Illustrious Brethren, assist me to close the labours

of the day.
(All place themselves as at the opening and S.D.says.)

PRAYER

ALL – Glory to Thee, O Lord. Glory to Thy works. Glory to Thy

Infinite goodness

(The S.D. ascends the East, and the dignitaries return to their
places)

SUBLIME DAI- Strikes 333.

To order, Illustrious Brethren. Observe the Orient and attend to
giving the Sign.
To the glory of T.S.A.O.T.U. In the name, and under the auspices,
of the Sovereign Sanctuary of Ancient and Primitive Masonry, in and
for Great Britain and Ireland, I declare the labours of this Council
suspended.
Retire in peace Illustrious brothers, and may the Spirit of God watch
over you.

S. : Draw the sword across the neck and then point it upwards.

T. : Mutually place a hand on each others right shoulder.

W.P. : HOFF OMPHET (Signifying in Phoenician: watch and be pure)

W.S. : STELLA, SEDET, SALI. (Signifying, Science, Wisdom, Virtue.)

BAT: * * * - * * * *

Jewel and Symbol : The winged egg. A portion of a cylinder with a square in the
centre and a point in the middle.

24
 Thoth, the Ibis-Headed
It is doubtful that the deity called
Thoth by the Egyptians was
originally Hermes, but the two
personalities were blended together
and it is now impossible to separate
them. Thoth was called "The Lord of
the Divine Books" and "Scribe of the
Company of the Gods." He is
generally pictured with the body of
a man and the head of an ibis.

Thoth, the Dog-Headed

Aroueris, or Thoth, one of the
five immortals, protected the
infant Horus after the murder of
Osiris. He also revised the
ancient Egyptian calendar by
increasing the year from 360
days to 365. Thoth-Hermes was
called "The Dog-Headed"
because of his faithfulness and
integrity. He is shown crowned
with a solar nimbus, carrying in
one hand the Crux Ansata, the
symbol of eternal life, and in the
other a serpent-wound staff
symbolic of his dignity as a
counselor of the gods.

Isis, Queen of Heaven

Diodorus writes of a famous
inscription carved on a column at
Nysa, in Arabia, wherein Isis
described herself as follows: "I am
Isis, Queen of this country. I was
instructed by Mercury. No one can
destroy the laws which I have
established. I am the eldest
daughter of Saturn, most ancient of
the gods. I am the wife and sister of
Osiris the King. I first made known
to mortals the use of wheat. I am
the mother of Orus the King. In my

25
 honor was the city of Bubaste built.
Rejoice, O Egypt, rejoice, land that
gave me birth!"

The Egyptian Madonna

Isis is often shown with her son
Horus in her arms. She is
crowned with the lunar orb,
ornamented with the horns of
rams or bulls. Orus, or Horus,
was the son of Isis and Osiris.
He was the god of time, hours,
days, and this narrow span of
life recognized as mortal
existence. In all probability, the
four sons of Horus represent the
four kingdoms of Nature. It was
Horus who finally avenged the
murder of his father, Osiris, by
slaying Typhon, the Spirit of Evil.

Osiris, King of the Underworld

Osiris is often represented with the
lower part of his body enclosed in a
mummy case or wrapped about
with funeral bandages. Osiris was
the river Nile and that Isis (his
sister-wife) was the contiguous
land, which, when inundated by the
river, bore fruit and harvest. The
murky waters of the Nile were
believed to account for the
blackness of Osiris, who was
generally symbolized as being of
ebony hue. MPH

The Winged Globe of Egypt

This symbol, which appears over the pylons or gates of many Egyptian
palaces and temples, is emblematic of the three persons of the
Egyptian Trinity. The wings, the serpents, and the solar orb are the
insignia of Ammon, Ra, and Osiris.

26
 The Royal Egyptian Scarab
The flat under side of a scarab usually bears an inscription relating to
the dynasty during which it was cut. These scarabs were sometimes
used as seals. Some were cut from ordinary or precious stones; others
were made of clay, baked and glazed. Occasionally the stone scarabs
were also glazed. The majority of the small scarabs are pierced as
though originally used as beads. Some are so hard that they will cut
glass. In the picture above, A shows top and side views of the scarab,
and B the under surface with the name of Men-ka-Ra within the
central cartouche. MPH

The Uraeus
The spinal cord was symbolized
by a snake, and the serpent
coiled upon the foreheads of the
Egyptian initiates represented
the Divine Fire which had
crawled serpent-like up the Tree
of Life.

An Egyptian Phoenix
The Egyptians occasionally represented the phoenix as having the
body of a man and the wings of a bird. This biform creature had a tuft
of feathers upon its head and its arms were upraised in an attitude of

27
prayer. As the phoenix was the symbol of regeneration, the tuft of
feathers on the back of its head might well symbolize the activity of
the pineal gland, or third eye, the occult function of which was
apparently well understood by the ancient priest-craft.

The Sacred Bull, or Apis

The bull and the ox are ancient emblems of the vernal equinox and
the element of earth—consequently of the planet itself. Pultarch
wrote: "The Apis ought ever to be regarded by us, as a fair and
beautiful image of the soul of Osiris." Osiris represents the spiritual
nature of the lower world which is murdered and distributed
throughout the substance of the physical spheres; Apis is the emblem
of the material world within which is the spiritual nature—Osiris.

The Crux Ansata (the Ankh)

Both the cross and the circle were
fertility symbols, for the ancient
world venerated the generative
powers of Nature as being
expressive of the creative attributes
of the Deity. The Crux Ansata, by
combining the masculine TAU with
the feminine oval, exemplified the
principles of generation.

28