Categories
Artigos

For those interested in the Occult

For those interested in the Occult

Ennio Dinucci….

"Fraternidade Rosacruciana São Paulo” is a Christian Esoteric School that was established in 1929 and has been consistent with its foundational principles ever since. In this article, it addresses the readers to express its position on the current proliferation of “esoteric” teachings, related publications, and websites worldwide. These words are delivered by the Instructor.

We know that the content may not resonate with those who are charmed by the mediocre and sensationalist “occultism” of today. In fact, our message is likely to be rejected beforehand without any real consideration. Naturally, most people find it difficult to acknowledge and shift their mental focus. Regardless of how reasonable and logical the arguments may be, they struggle to concede to any proposition that contradicts their long-held false beliefs.

That said, there are other people who value intelligence, common sense, and their own intellectual independence. These people, who have the capacity to think critically and logically, are not willing to accept any form of esoteric babble, however enticing it may appear. These are the individuals we respectfully address with the purpose of providing clarification and fraternal assistance.

As a further introduction, we would like to clarify that the purpose of this website is neither advertise our organization nor engage in capricious, unfounded criticism. Instead, it delivers sincere admonitory lessons from a School that has consistently observed the values of soberness and integrity in its teachings. This School is probably the oldest esoteric organization in the State of São Paulo and in Brazil, second only to "Círculo Esotérico da Comunhão do Pensamento".

However, not all “esoteric” institutions live up to this title. On the contrary, it is common knowledge that numerous esoteric movements and popular religions have been transformed into lucrative enterprises. In the sphere of esotericism, the situation has reached an extreme, leading many people to accept odd and absurd views that are far removed from the spirits of truth and intelligence.

Unfortunately, most of what is currently presented as esotericism is just a vulgar and distasteful fabrication, with very few exceptions. It could not be different. “Sacred Science” is too serious a matter to be sensationalized, treated with superstition, or imparted in a fanatical manner as it has been done. True to its name, esotericism is a teaching whose nature is occult1. Even when it is made known to the public, it is intended and grasped for a few. Consequently, it bears no resemblance to the mystical forgery that prevails these days.

Naturally, this panorama of fraud and deception is embedded within a wider framework. In other words, it is clear to any perceptive, intelligent person that the world is going through a difficult phase in its evolution. There seems to be an absence of authority, morality, and dignity in the various domains of human life, whether it is religion, philosophy, society, politics, or domestic matters.

Surprisingly, no authorized voice has come forward to address this tragic situation and advocate for virtue and justice. It is disheartening to see how society's most cherished values are being neglected and ignored, as if people have grown apathetic and helpless in the face of reality. It appears that we are passively waiting for some external event that will put an end to this moral decay, although the timing and nature of this catalyst are unknown.

Within these circumstances, the absence of respect for the Sacred, selfishness, immorality, and greed have prompted numerous unscrupulous individuals to promote a form of esoteric “knowledge” that has been especially forged to benefit themselves, thereby existing just inside the crafty and distorted imaginations of its inventors.

The widespread dissemination of foolish, groundless ideas can be observed across diverse media outlets, including literature, online platforms, television, newspapers, and other widely circulated periodicals. This phenomenon has successfully convinced a naive and inexperienced audience, whose praise have accredited the authors with a position of experts and authorities in the field.

After hearing or reading their mystical blather, it seems as though they are the ones who created esotericism. Bizarre and illogical ideas are shamelessly presented as indisputable oracles. The business is lucrative, and the number of individuals profiting from “esoteric” practices is not small. Allegedly based on astrology, tarot, numerology, palmistry, runes, shells, and other related practices, they claim to predict the fortune of individuals, businesses, and nations.

Even certain doctors and psychologists have decided to profit from the “esoteric wave” by incorporating psychic therapies and regressions to “past lives” into their practices. In doing so, they treat these occurrences as simple, trivial proceedings over which they professedly have control. It is appalling to see how much credit they take for these illusions, especially when one is aware of the methods that they use to perform their wonders.

Noticeably, “Fraternidade Rosacruciana São Paulo” has no relation with these tricksters, scammers, or their profit-driven enterprises. However, it bears a moral and spiritual responsibility to prevent those who, enticed by deceptive advertising, are being drawn into this widespread, meretricious occultism.

Eliphas Levi2, the renowned Kabbalist and Wizard from the 19th century, shared a perspective on the topic that remains valid to this day. According to the author, “There is a true and a false science, a divine magic and an infernal magic, in other words, one which is delusive and darksome; it is our task to reveal one and to unveil the other; to distinguish the Magician from the sorcerer and the Adept from the charlatan”.

Surely, there are numerous followers of "Simon Magus”, who are constantly seeking to reap financial rewards from the arcane teachings. However, this harsh reality should not be a reason for discouragement, as a forgery implies the existence of an original concept. Besides, there are precautions to be taken when delving into the realm of the occult.

The first necessary precaution is to choose an honest teaching that is focused on a logic, just, and clearly defined goal. Most importantly, this teaching should align with the method of spiritual development that is suited for western peoples, namely Christianity.

On a different note, it needs to be made clear that the true teachings of the Gospels are largely unknown, despite the numerous evangelical sects that claim to preach their doctrine, along with the various enhanced (read adulterated) versions of the Bible that have been produced from the original text and made available in multiple languages.

To ensure precision, we advocate for the use of the term "adulterated" instead of "revised and improved," as it better reflects the changes in the texts, which stem from a purely literal perspective of individuals who plainly ignore their spiritual meaning. By substituting certain terms with others that they considered to be more appropriate, they have distorted the internal or esoteric meaning that the four Evangelical Schools3 intended to impart.

The translators of the Bible and the Gospels would be praiseworthy if they focused on accurately translating the words without attempting to enhance the meaning of ideas that they do not understand. Despite their familiarity with the sentences and ability to mechanically recite them in any order, they remain entirely ignorant of the underlying concepts.

The worth of these books goes beyond mere historical or biographical facts. These hold minimal importance. Their essence is spiritual in nature and carries a much higher and transcendent message than that to which the Catholic and Protestant religions attribute it. Their passages possess an enigmatic quality that demands careful consideration, as they contain concealed meanings that elude those who approach them in a literal manner.

The historical events portrayed in their pages are merely the exterior or symbolic side of an interior or esoteric reality that most scholars, clergy, and evangelical ministers are completely unaware of. It is nearly impossible to penetrate their enigmas without the appropriate keys, which only authentic Esoteric Schools possess.

When it comes to this kind of knowledge, there is a psychological barrier that prevents man from "receiving" and understanding the truth. The barrier, or veil before the eyes, as Saint Paul referred to it, is made up of negative4 thoughts and feelings that are connected to worldly desires and attractions, particularly the attachment to one's own body and material possessions.

Nonetheless, once the Gospels’ teachings are internalized, man’s ephemeral illusions are dispelled. This understanding leads him to see material existence for what it truly is: a fleeting vision that vanishes like a dream. The journey from crib to tomb is no doubt short, and reflecting on this fact should prevent him from being caught off guard by death’s arrival.

However harsh and realistic this truth may be, man cannot escape it. The one option remaining for him is to comprehend his own circumstances, striving to master and adapt to the laws and principles that rule existence. Apropos, we recall the message of our Savior, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death" (John 8:51).

His words are a reminder that man is a Spirit, a Son of God, and his most urgent need is to become conscious of this fundamental reality. However, man’s evolution is still in its early stages and due to his complete identification with the world and submission to a selfish, materialistic persona, his conscience is weak and subjective.

Although he senses an evolutionary scheme that transcends his influence and a “serious knowledge” that can guide him through this process (evolution), he also finds himself irresistibly attracted to worldly pursuits. The absence of a rational basis allows these ordinary distractions to take precedence over his higher aspirations.

The primary difficulty of man of relative (physical) consciousness is that these higher teachings, which encapsulate the fundamental laws of evolution, do not align with his illusions and earthly aspirations. Consequently, they appear to surpass his capacity of understanding, presenting a harsh reality that he struggles to accept and implement in everyday life.

Yet, reality should not be ignored. Just like physical nourishment sustains the body, providing it with the necessary resources to navigate the challenges of material existence, so does the soul require a unique sort of sustenance in the form of elevated and refined ideas that pave the spiritual route. This nourishment aims to liberate the human mind from the deceptive perceptions generated by the five physical senses.

However, since the majority cannot understand and endure a higher level of instruction, they seek solace in the ideas and incomplete truths disseminated by religions and popular esotericism. These illusory sources provide them with a false spiritual foundation composed of metaphysical theories that are especially forged to accommodate their misconceptions, enabling them to nourish and maintain their worldly aspirations.

The problem is that this type of nourishment often has a detrimental impact on the well-being of man's soul. It may gradually poison his mind, leading him to conflate truth with lie. This is what we call a philosophical adultery5, an adverse situation that further isolates man from his spiritual reality.

Simultaneously, the Elder Brothers and Guides of humanity provide a superior form of sustenance known as "Higher Teachings", which, contrary to common perception, are not intended for everyone without distinction. Hierarchy is an indisputable, all-pervading aspect of existence that is clearly discernible. In occultism, it manifests itself as various levels of understanding.

Hence, the Higher Teachings are structured for individuals who have attained a particular level of evolution, characterized by their capacity to separate their REASON from the realm of senses, emotions, sectarian sympathies, and intellectual ambitions. This capacity is essential for a truth seeker, as truth lies beyond personal and worldly opinions and is impervious to them.

When reason is freed from the shackles of emotion, personal whims and opinions disappear, revealing a new reality that was previously unexplored. This awakening, which is described in the Gospels, prompts individuals to recognize the necessity of discarding a multitude of futile ideas, opinions, misconceptions, and prejudices that they once held in high regard.

Upon becoming conscious of a higher truth, they come to understand that those cherished ideas hold little importance. They realize that the truth is not dependent on their personal perspectives or scientific beliefs. They also come to acknowledge that the Earth continues to revolve in its orbit independently and unaffected by their speculations.

The significance of this awareness cannot be overstated, despite its apparent simplicity. Anyone with basic reasoning skills can perceive that what often fulfils people's immediate desires and interests may not necessarily be the most beneficial for them. The important implication is that there is a glaring disparity between the study of the soul and the pursuit of worldly pleasures and endeavors.

To express it differently, the knowledge of those who overvalue their senses and worldly matters does not align with the authentic knowledge of the soul. This is why fake schools can easily establish a connection with the ordinary man and effortlessly sway him in any desired direction through their common language and ideals.

It is interesting to note how thoughtful people are about the goal of traditional education, considering how neglectful they are about the objective of occult schools, which they appear to regard as unimportant. Take the example of an engineering school. Its goal is to educate and train future engineers. Further, we assume that the students enroll in the engineering course because they are aware of this purpose and committed to it.

However, nobody seems to ponder what the objective of an esoteric school is to which the student should commit. This way, most of the organizations that profess to be esoteric possess no spiritual Ideal in harmony with the Evolutionary Plan. In plain words, their teachings lack a clear objective that can be attained through their practice.

This is the first aspect that an Aspirant to a Higher Life should consider when given an instruction. One should question the worth of a teaching that only serves to gratify the mundane personality, having no spiritual purpose in view. If an institution cannot provide a clear explanation of its objectives and the means to achieve them, the aspirant should promptly abandon it, as he is facing a fraud.

However, while there exists a misguided and materialistic version of occultism driven by personal gain and recognition, there also exists a genuine and sound form of occultism known to a select few. This authentic occultism is focused on self-discovery and the pursuit of Spiritual Enlightenment while the former option is undemanding and appealing to the crowds. One is a shadow to the other, much like a counterfeit vainly attempts to capture the essence of an original masterpiece.

Consistent with this falsification trend, the internet provides a wide range of “spiritual” concepts and “spiritual” leaders to choose from. Some individuals go so far as to assert themselves as reincarnations of the Spirit of Christ, offering their unique plans of salvation to those who are gullible enough to accept them in exchange for a specified fee, of course!

Most of these teachings fail to withstand rigorous examination. Their lack of substance, credibility, and truthfulness is fully exposed to any practical investigator who looks beyond appearances. It is evident that they do not possess the profound Spiritual Understanding that exists beyond mere book knowledge and personal opinions.

These articles are rarely the product of the author's understanding but rather excerpts from various occult writings from both the past and present, among which there are some perilous ones. Supplemented by the intellectual fantasies of each “master”, these fragments of teachings are cunningly combined, altered, and presented to the public as their own expertise.

These fabricated teachings would be best described as patchworks, as they encompass a wide range of conflicting ideas. Not even the teachings of Mr. Max Heindel have escaped this fate. The falsifiers, eager to display their supposed knowledge, conveniently omit the sources from which they have extracted the teachings of Rosicrucian Philosophy.

This is what happens to those who succumb to the allure of greed, cunning, and misguided intellectuality. It is a consequence of being overwhelmed by conflicting ideas and excessive reading, particularly from Eastern occultism and spiritualist doctrines, which are openly condemned by the Bible, the Gospels, and the timeless esoteric traditions.

It is impressive how, after reading a dozen books and lacking any profound spiritual experience, some individuals feel entitled to teach others and share their insights on various mystical subjects like Druids, Gnostics, Essenes, Angels, Archangels, Goblins, and higher beings. Not even the mysterious figure of the Count of Saint-Germain was immune to the philosophical maneuvers of these charlatans.

Let us resume the engineering school example. If a student was asked what he expects to receive upon completion of his studies, his response would naturally be the attainment of an engineering degree. Regrettably, if the identical question was posed to students from the numerous “esoteric schools” of today, only a small number would be able to answer it with confidence, so disparate are their teachings and the philosophical confusion they generate.

From the early days of Christianity, Saint Paul instructed his disciples on the matter, saying: “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” (Col. 2:8-9)

At the same time, it is worth noting that most people are not searching for teachings based on Truth and Reason. Instead, they are in pursuit of philosophical speculations and mystical fantasies that cater to their worldly ambitions and desires. These may include impossible love affairs, remedies for health or financial troubles, fame and glory, job prospects, or even the fulfilment of an unspeakable yearning.

Because of that, true Esoteric Schools are rare to find and difficult to access. Their most recondite teachings are kept secret. There are no written records of them, and they can only be transmitted to proven disciples. On occasion, from mouth to ear.

The journey towards discovering one's Inner Truth is far from easy. The pathway is narrow, tight, and arduous to find. Only through merit can a person attain it. Therefore, this teaching stands apart from the romantic and dreamy “esotericism” of the present time, not to mention the mystical gibberish named the New Age movement that has made many millionaires at the expense of the naives who fall prey to it.

The reason is quite clear. While the idea of developing one's spiritual faculties may be appealing to many, only a small number of individuals are prepared to make sacrifices for their lofty aspirations and adhere to the scientific methods that provide legitimate access to the inner realms. Typically, people are more inclined to pay for their spiritual development (as if it could be bought) than to make an effort for it.

However, the teachings propagated by a Genuine Esoteric School serve a “Higher Purpose” that is beyond any commercial transaction. We may say without any hesitation that esotericism is not a commodity to be bought or sold. Therefore, only sincerity and honesty can guide man towards a “Higher Esoteric Institution”. These attributes are indispensable.

Yet, occasionally, an unqualified individual may accidentally encounter a legitimate School and, consequently, be exposed to its teachings. In this scenario, his discordant mental vibrations prevent him from staying within the sphere of influence of that School for an extended period of time, as his objectives and those of the School are divergent and counterproductive, thus unable to achieve harmony.

Apropos, there is a timeless aphorism that states, “Birds of a feather flock together”, which entails the correlated maxim: “Oil and water do not mix”. Both are highly applicable to esoteric institutions and their pupils.

A Higher Esoteric Institution instructs with irreproachable logic and has the utmost consideration for its students and the occult teachings. As a result, it refrains from ostentatious displays of its activities, which are carried out in the most discreet and respectful manner. A School of this nature is neither interested in material possessions nor in attracting a crowd. Therefore, it will never have many students and in no circumstances will it become a millionaire institution.

Based on these guiding principles, an Authentic School does not charge registration or tuition fees; it does it sell instructions, initiations, badges, medals, rosaries, candles, incense, or any other item; it does not have a special museum to house corpses6, nor does it promote travel packages to places considered “mystical” like Egypt, Machu Picchu, India, and Santiago de Compostela. It is fully aware that the only mystical place worth knowing is the interior of man himself.

An organization that is focused on that kind of activity — the exploitation of its members — can never be considered a Genuine School. Instead, it is nothing more than a commercial establishment for the exploitation of a particular business field, with nothing to offer in the realm of genuine spirituality except lies and deception.

The adoption of sensationalist, questionable, and unsubstantiated concepts, which contradict the moral and spiritual progress of man, suggests an institution run by charlatans, and therefore a blind instrument of deceit and insanity. Based on fraud and driven by financial gain, it only serves to adulterate the fundamental principles of Higher Education. From a strict perspective, it is nothing but an ambush or a spiritual pitfall.

Woefully, this is the reality of our days. Most “esoteric” organizations along with their so-called instructors are serving as blind and unmindful agents of the “Anti-Christ” (contrary to the truth). This also applies to certain religious movements, both Protestant and Catholic, which are transforming religious services into either nightlife entertainment or horror shows.

As a matter of conscience and moral obligation, we urge those who are interested in esotericism, especially the novices moved by good faith, to be cautious of the flowery messages craftily transmitted by the self-proclaimed masters and instructors of today. We particularly advise against those who use the Internet as a coverup, where they pose as mentors, initiates, and wisemen under intriguing and suggestive pseudonyms created to allure and trick the naive.

As the proverb goes, the devil makes great promises (lies) but delivers none. The message could not be any more obvious. What could possibly be expected from someone who has nothing of “his own” but bookish fantasies and illusions? What could someone whose soul is saturated with selfishness, vanity, and commercial interests offer of real value in the field of spirituality? Perchance, "Do men gather grapes of thorns or figs of thistles?", asked the Divine Mater (Matthew 7:16).

Considering these circumstances, we reiterate our advice to those interested in the Occult to exercise caution and remain vigilant when exploring any teaching that arouses their interest. The candidate must never neglect logic and common sense, otherwise he risks buying chaff for wheat.

Perhaps, when reading this text, many students will be appalled. They may say that it does not accurately reflect reality and that we are exaggerating it. They may contend that all esoteric routes are valid (“All roads lead to Rome”), and everyone is entitled to express their views on the subject. Many will perceive us as intolerant, judgmental, and aggressive. All these reactions and assertions are expected. Yet, they do not cause us any discomfort or shake our convictions.

The Rosicrucian philosophy, which we study and transmit, is not a creation of ours but rather an inheritance from the venerable Rosicrucian Order, also known as the Western School of Minor Mysteries, on which we rely to expose all this esoteric sham that attempts to control people’s minds. Thanks to its teachings, we have learned to use logic and discernment instead of accepting any nonsense that presents itself with the title of esotericism.

We also want to clarify that "Fraternidade Rosacruciana São Paulo" is not affiliated with or subordinated to any organization. Especially not to “The Rosicrucian Fellowship,” based in Oceanside, USA, as this institution has significantly strayed from the original teachings of Mr. Max Heindel by incorporating the fantasies and philosophical dreams of Mrs. Corinne Heline, the founder and director of the “New Age” movement among that community.

It is equally important to clarify that the honorable Rosicrucian Order7 has no connection with the organization known worldwide by the name AMORC (abbreviation for “Antiquus Mysticusque Ordo Rosae Crucis") that claims to be esoteric. Although its founders have appropriated this name and registered it as a trademark of their “esoteric” company, this does not confer any spiritual nature upon it, just like a label of a renowned wine attached to a bottle of vinegar does not transform it into wine. Laypeople may be tricked, but not experts.

Furthermore, the Rosicrucian Order is inherently Christian. As such, it has no relation to any customs or religious practices of ancient Egypt, regardless of any misconceptions generated by “AMORC” or similar organizations. Appropriately, we indicate the webpage where the true story of “AMORC” and its founder, Mr. Harvey Spencer Lewis, was formerly exposed. This is it: http://members.Es.tripod.de/truthamorc/index.Html. Although the page has been removed from the internet, we have saved its content and are open to sharing it with whoever has an interest in learning about it.

One might inquire the source of our authority in this matter. Well, for 71 years, "Fraternidade Rosacruciana São Paulo" has faithfully and unwavering upheld its commitment to the teachings received from the Rosicrucians through the instructions imparted by Mr. Max Heindel. Thus, it holds a mature perspective, having seen and experienced much in this domain. Our School is not a product of the pseudo-esoteric trend that has swept the world in recent years. It is well-established, having witnessed the birth of this esoteric sham of today.

We know that in this field, reality is not always welcome. Yet, our words should not be received with indignation, unlike the reality they expose. Did this author, by any chance, write some absurdity or make any statement that does not correspond to the truth of the facts? Did he deviate from the principles of authentic Esoteric Christianity, thereby disregarding Reason and Logic? Did not Christ say that "(...) if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out"? (Luke 19:40)

Contrary to the popular belief according to which “all roads lead to Rome”, we do not endorse the idea that all “spiritual” paths are beneficial, as some are clearly not. We also diverge from a misconception that surrounds the idea of freedom of expression. The mistake is to advocate that anybody is entitled to speak and write about any existing subject, even if they have not acquired the authority and the knowledge on which to base their conclusions.

Speculators ought to realize that there are genuine organizations and students who do not submit to any absurdity that is presented with the name of philosophy, however glamorous it may sound. The self-proclaimed mentors of modern spirituality must eventually recognize that, despite appearances to the contrary, there are many individuals who can think independently and therefore do not acquiesce to their “esoteric” nonsense, presented with an air of wisdom.

Just like some roads do not lead to Rome, not all religious and philosophical systems lead to God. In fact, some of them can lead to mental illness. While this is true of numerous paths, one of them can guide man towards his spiritual reality, which is the one laid out by Christ. According to his own words, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by me" (John 14:6).

Words, whether written or spoken, carry powerful suggestions that can produce a variety of unwanted effects. For instance, they can induce hypnotic influences that exert control over the will and psyche of the receiver. This is especially applicable to people who are overly sensitive and credulous. Words convey IDEAS, and these can be as true and just as they can be false, deceiving, unjust, and perilous. Good or bad, they always have an influence.

Because of this, numerous students experience detrimental impacts on their mental and psychological faculties without suspecting the cause. These effects arise from the adoption of distorted spiritual concepts and the execution of unsuitable exercises recommended by ignorant, irresponsible authors and pseudo-schools whose “teachings” only create confusion and disorientation.

Therefore, before embracing any “spiritual” doctrine, it is crucial for the candidate to engage in serious and systematic study, along with deep meditation (reasoning) on the subject. Blind adherence to an instruction may lead to erroneous conclusions, trapping the individual in a complex mental labyrinth from which it may be difficult to escape. The situation becomes more problematic when it involves the implementation of certain practices of harmful consequences.

However, a diligent student has the opportunity to find “Ariadne's Thread”8, recognize its value, and seize it, thereby avoiding being trapped. The thread is a symbol of an Authorized Teaching or Truth that serves as a guiding light on the spiritual path and without which self-knowledge and success are virtually unattainable. Hence, in this domain, there is no better advice than that offered by Saint Paul9: "Examine everything and choose what is best".

Furthermore, there is a noteworthy aspect related to the popularity of esoteric books. In this specific field, public acclaim is an indication of a lack of substance and an abundance of sensationalism. The ideas put forth by a bestseller writer generally align with the materialistic and relative perspectives of sensory man. In addition, the language employed is one that pleases the readers’ personalities, otherwise the aimed success would be out of reach.

The success of an esoteric book hinges on its ability to nourish readers’ dreams and fantasies about spirituality. Serious authors who boldly expose the naked truth remain unnoticed by a public who crave illusions. This is why authorized or initiated writers do not gain popularity. Besides, this is not their aim. They know in advance that their teachings are destined to attract a small number of readers as "many are called, but few are chosen” (Mathew 22:14).

An instance that exemplifies what we have been discussing is the global acclaim attained by Mr. Paulo Coelho, whose novels have amassed a substantial and dedicated readership. His success is indisputable. Unfortunately, not only does it offer compelling evidence for our theses, but it also demonstrates the existence of foolish and naive individuals in every country, including those classified as first world.

The Rosicrucian philosophy outlined in the book “Rosicrucian Cosmo-Conception” is the soundest and most comprehensive esoteric presentation ever written. It is a summary of the teachings of the Rosicrucian Order that was publicly presented in the early 20th century (1909) through the writing of Mr. Max Heindel, the Initiated and authorized Messenger of that School.

The study of its bases should be enough to convince any objective investigator of the authority and sobriety of its principles. Therefore, we recommend that those interested in the Occult thoroughly examine these teachings and carefully compare them with others before dismissing them. They are a valuable source of wisdom for those who are earnestly and consciously dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge.

The Order or School under consideration does not make any grand promises or indulge in fantasies of greatness and spiritual power. The teachings emphasize the importance of students dedicating themselves to studying and improving their character in order to shape their own destiny and attain Spiritual Understanding or Enlightenment.

Moreover, the teachings aim to reconcile science and genuine spirituality, rationality and belief, revealing that the Bible, the Gospels, and even the most cryptic aspects of ancient esoteric traditions hold cogent truths that may have appeared unfathomable. In addition, they propose a transformation of mentality, leading to the genesis of a new individual: an authentic Christian, someone who loves God (Spirit) above all things and his neighbor like himself.

The supreme value of Rosicrucian philosophy lies in its capacity to permanently free the student from deceptive spiritual beliefs and fanciful ideas. Rather than relying on others, he starts to rely on himself, becoming an independent being, able to stand on his own under any circumstance. This marks the beginning of a profound journey, whose ultimate goal is to attain consciousness of his own Spirit, the divine illumination residing within himself.

The Rosicrucian School has two primary missions that it expects its students to fulfill. Firstly, students are expected to cultivate self-knowledge in order to facilitate the development of a “New Man” or “New Mentality”. Secondly, students are motivated to work diligently towards the primary objective of attaining the 'Wedding Garment' or 'Spiritual Body' alluded to in the "wedding parable" (Matthew 22:1-14).

This garment is an invisible certificate of achievement and merit. It is a product originated by the efforts of those who have risen above worldly illusions. It is invisible in the sense that it cannot be perceived in the physical world, and it does not align with the concept of recognition conferred by mundane institutions for material accomplishments. It is neither conferred by someone else nor is it material. Instead, it is a natural result of the student’s efforts that grants access to the inner worlds10.

However, for the “New Man” to emerge, a new form of Education must be implemented. It is essential to implant the candidate's mind with Higher, Just, and True principles that can eliminate the illusions that arise from vanity and sensory perceptions, including those provided by the intellect’s false light. These have misguided humanity throughout its history.

A re-education program is precisely what a legitimate Esoteric School proposes. However, students should not confuse re-education with mindless, involuntary conditioning imposed on them without their consent. Besides, this new education is not influenced by personal, egoistic interests, nor is it swayed by popular opinions or the sages of this world, as these are “ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Tim. 3:7).

The Higher Schools of Initiation are channels for the expression of the Inner or Invisible Circle (Internal Worlds). This circle is comprised of extraordinary individuals with mental and spiritual capacities that far exceed those of the average man. Their teachings and specialized methods are shared with the world at opportune moments, in accordance with the spiritual and psychological needs of the different peoples to whom they are destined.

The authentic Instructors who carry out their activities in the physical realm, or Visible External Circle, are extremely cautious in disseminating these teachings to ensure their essence and purity remain untainted. Their task is to present them without adulteration, ensuring they are not misinterpreted or deviated from their legitimate purposes. Apropos, every authorized instructor is fully aware of the responsibility he assumes under the higher laws:

“I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours” (John 4:38).

The teachings from the "Elder Brothers" (Internal Circle) are identified by their logical and profound nature. Their origin, magnitude and intrinsic logic eliminate any space for philosophical ramblings or intellectual fantasies, unlike the misguided esotericism that pervades our current era.

Individuals with an interest in Esoteric Science should indelibly imprint on their minds that anything of value comes at a cost, although in the spiritual realm it is not a monetary one, evidently. Therefore, to acquire greater capacities, individuals must diligently and consistently apply a mysterious formula that lies purposefully occult within the immortal and magical pages of Christ’s Gospels, which the study of Rosicrucian philosophy helps to uncover.

However, greater capacities come with greater responsibilities and sacrifices. In other words, the spiritually fulfilled man, who follows the example of Christ, lives to serve others rather than being served. As his understanding grows, he abandons the desire for achievement without putting in the necessary work, as well as the aspiration to teach subjects he lacks knowledge and practical experience in.

In due course, his commitment to learning and self-reflection will prompt him to discern that to attain the Eternal Life promised by Christ he must detach himself from the illusory self-perception he has constructed over time. By then, he will have understood that the Rosicrucian School has no other objectives in view, except that of honoring his true nature, as a man and as a Spirit.

It will become clear that the School's sole purpose is to shape him into a conscious agent of the Father and his evolutionary plan. With this intention, it instructs and enlightens individuals about the essential values they must obtain in order to acquire the Special Garment11. This garment bestows the power to transcend death and enter the "New Galilee" (Vital Plane), where one can meet the Supreme Master.

“And go quickly, and tell his disciples (of all times) that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: Io, I have told you” (Mt. 28:7).

This higher plan of existence announced by Christ is restricted to those who possess "The Wedding Garment". It is where the Rosicrucian Order and the Higher Schools of Iniciation12 are established. Apropos, Mr. Max Heindel asserts that the "Garment" can only be woven by virtue of Love and Self-Sacrifice in conjunction with noble and disinterested service to others, as it confers Conscious Immortality upon its possessor.

Your servant and brother in Christ - Ennio Dinucci

en_USEnglish