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Minerval, " The ego is attracted to the Solar System" - MWT. ". I begin by showing the object of the pure soul, "One, individual and eternal," in determining to formulate itself consciously, or, as I may say, to understand itself. It chooses to enter into relations with the solar system." - Confessions. 0 degree, this degree is symbolically that of conception and marks the beginning of the whole cycle. A Minerval is seen as a guest of the Order, and this degree is a preliminary to full membership in the 1st. Degree. A candidate for Minerval must apply on the relevant form,(available from the National Secretary)and acquire two sponsors who will attest to the fact that they are, ' free, of full age (currently 18.), and of ' good report'. (This being interpreted to mean that they are able to function as a responsible and self-reliant adult in the everyday world. Criteria would include having a trade or profession, being a full time parent, being involved in a recognised course of study etc. These criteria are not dogmatic, and each application is judged on its own merits.) As a guest of the Order a Minerval will gain a closer insight into it's work, and be better able to make an informed decision as to whether the Order is suited to them, likewise the Order will use this period to assess and observe the Initiate, and their suitability for advancement to full membership will be decided by their sponsors. A Minerval may choose to proceed to the first degree, at any time within a period of not more than 9 months. A Minerval who chooses not to advance within the 9-month period automatically ceases to be a member of the Order. This degree also relates to the Ajna (third eye) and Muladahara (base) chakkras. Man and Brother, or Woman and Sister " The Child experiences Birth" - MWT "…it incarnates. I explain the significance of birth and the conditions established by the process." - Confessions. 1st. Degree, this degree is symbolically that of rebirth, and marks the beginning of full membership of the Order. It is particularly concerned with ' Lustration', that is the purification of the individual and the removal from their sphere of restricting influences. The Initiate of the 1st degree establishes a bond with the Order, which will endure throughout their physical lifetime. The Candidate's sponsors will normally be those from Minerval, and will continue to keep a special interest in the candidate, offering such aid and assistance as may be needed. With this degree the Initiate is entitled to attend meetings of their local Lodge and other formal O.T.O.F. events. This degree relates to the Vishuddha (throat) chakkra. Magician " The man experiences Life." - MWT. "…I next show how it may best carry out its object in the Eucharist of life. It partakes, so to speak, of its own godhead in every action, but especially through the typical sacrament of marriage, understood as the voluntary union of itself with each element of its environment." - Confessions 2nd Degree, This degree is symbolically that of life and represents magical puberty; it recognises the right of the individual to act as an 'adult'. It is termed ' consecration' and is particularly concerned with the development of qualities, which will assist the initiate to do their true will. All of the degrees above 5th are in sense commentaries upon the 2nd degree, in that they teach the initiate how to live in a particular manner. This degree relates to the Anahata (heart) chakkra |
