Way of the Hermit

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.
In the episode, a comprehensive examination of the "Knight of the Sun" degree's Ritual, both in its original and revised forms, is undertaken, revealing significant philosophical and symbolic depth. The revised Ritual, simplified for modern practice, is described as featuring two presiding officers and a choir of angels representing the planets, focusing on teaching through symbolism such as geometry, the pentagram, and alchemy. Despite its accessibility, the revised Ritual is critiqued for lacking the depth and esoteric richness of the original, which included elaborate decorations, costumes, and a more profound invocation of spiritual and intellectual themes. The original Ritual's emphasis on equilibrium, the power of the Magus, and the importance of mastering reason and knowledge for societal benefit is highlighted, showcasing a stark contrast to the revised version's approach.
The episode also delves into the original Ritual's lectures, which offer deep insights into Kabbalistic philosophy, the Macrocosm and Microcosm, and the practical application of these teachings. The discussions underscore the Ritual's influence on the formation of The Golden Dawn and other esoteric groups, emphasizing the legacy of Pike's work in the broader context of occult and Masonic traditions. The importance of the "Knight of the Sun" degree is further underscored by its extensive coverage in "Morals and Dogma," with the Rebis symbol serving as a focal point for understanding the degree's teachings on equilibrium and the interplay between the material and spiritual. The episode concludes with reflections on the Ritual's significance and its potential connections to ancient myths, suggesting a deeper, esoteric lineage that continues to inspire and challenge practitioners and scholars alike.
The series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

• Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

Images:

• Knight of the Sun Regalia
• The Hermaphrodite by Heinrich Khunrath
• Macroprosopus by Eliphas Levi

Overview:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 01:58 Ritual Background
• 03:32 Ritual of the Degree
• 10:38 The Original Ritual
• 18:41 Lecture of Brother Truth
• 24:04 Lecture of Father Adam
• 29:43 Lecture of Malak Gabriel
• 32:10 A Tale of Two Rituals
• 34:02 The Golden Dawn
• 36:18 Conclusions

Links:

• Zohar (Wikipedia)
• Christian Knorr von Rosenroth (Wikipedia)
• Ancient of Days (Wikipedia)
• Adam Kadmon (Wikipedia)
• Rebus (Wikipedia)
• Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn (Wikipedia)
• Fraternity of the Inner Light (Wikipedia)
• Argenteum Astrum (Wikipedia)
• Ordo Templi Orientis (Wikipedia)

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.
In the episode, the exploration of light and darkness as primary metaphors in "The Mysteries" is revisited, with a deep dive into the symbolic significance of these elements across various religious and mythological contexts. The unity underlying apparent dualities is emphasized, alongside the quest for higher conceptions of God. The discussion transitions into the exploration of the "Central" or "Formless Fire" from Kabbalistic and Egyptian cosmologies, raising philosophical questions about the nature of reality and the human mind's role in shaping it. The "Cosmic Egg" and the "World Animal" are discussed as symbols representing the universe's vitality and interconnectedness, with the "Astral Light" highlighted as the creative force within human imagination.
Alchemy is explored as a metaphor for personal and spiritual transformation, with the "Emerald Tablet of Hermes" and the concept of "The Great Work" in alchemy examined as the ultimate goal of self-creation and mastery over one's faculties. The episode culminates in a discussion on the "Dual Current" and the figure of Baphomet, symbolizing the unity of opposites and the creative potential of the human mind. Baphomet is presented as a misunderstood symbol, historically obscured by superstition and fear, yet holding significant philosophical and spiritual implications. The episode concludes with reflections on the transformative power of the discussed symbols and concepts, inviting listeners to continue their exploration of these themes in their own lives and spiritual practices.
The series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

• Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

Images:

• Knight of the Sun Regalia
• Baphomet by Eliphas Levi

Overview:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 02:48 Hidden Light
• 05:18 Formless Fire
• 09:18 Cosmic Egg
• 10:47 World Animal
• 14:08 Astral Light
• 15:39 Alchemy
• 18:14 Emerald Tablet
• 21:08 The Great Work
• 24:07 The True Nature of Sacrifice
• 26:34 Necessity, Liberty & Reason
• 28:18 Miracles
• 29:51 Magic
• 30:52 Dual Current
• 32:41 Baphomet
• 37:00 Sphinx
• 39:34 Conclusions

Links:

• Dogma and Ritual of High Magic (Amazon)
• Emerald Tablet of Hermes (Wikipedia)
• Orphism (Wikipedia)
• Phanes (Wikipedia)
• Lucifer (Wikipedia)
• World Egg (Wikipedia)
• Baphomet (Wikipedia)
• Rider-Waite Tarot (Wikipedia)
• Trials of the Knights Templar (Wikipedia)
• Oedipus Complex (Wikipedia)
• Phrygian Cap (Wikipedia)

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.
In this episode, the intricate details of the Degree Ritual and its profound symbolism are explored, shedding light on the culmination of Masonic teachings. The ritual, set against the backdrop of the Vernal Equinox, serves as a symbolic journey through the Scottish Rite degrees, leading to the understanding of the Royal Secret and the Holy Doctrine.
The Encampment, a central symbol of the Degree, is meticulously described, revealing its nested geometric figures that represent the journey of enlightenment from the outer Nonagon to the inner Circle. This journey through the Encampment, from the broad understanding of Masonic philosophy to the individual realization of profound truths, is emphasized as a path to achieving equilibrium between the divine and the human.
The discussion delves deeper into the symbolism of Freemasonry, focusing on the Temple, Light, and the sacred names of God. The vows taken during the Ritual underscore the commitment to fight against despotism and to pursue enlightenment. The significance of the Vernal Equinox, representing the triumph of light over darkness, is highlighted as a metaphor for the renewal of life and the spirit's victory over matter.
The concept of the Logos, or the Divine Word, is explored as a symbol of divine ratification and the transmission of light from initiate to initiate. The metaphorical construction of the "Third Temple" within oneself is presented as the ultimate goal, symbolizing a new conception of divinity brought to life through the individual's journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.
The series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

• Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

Images:

• 32nd Degree Regalia
• 32nd Degree - Encampment Diagram
• The Hermaphrodite by Heinrich Khunrath

Overview:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 02:02 Ritual Setting
• 05:38 Degree Ritual
• 07:28 The Encampment
• 12:33 Degree Symbols
• 16:01 Morals and Dogma
• 17:46 White Light
• 19:57 Rainbow Bridge
• 22:46 Compass and Square
• 25:10 Spirit Over Matter
• 27:12 The Logos
• 28:52 Third Temple
• 33:10 The Sacred Word
• 34:55 Conclusions

Links:

• Solomon’s Temple (Wikipedia)
• Tetragrammaton (Wikipedia)
• Second Temple (Wikipedia)
• INRI (Wikipedia)
• New Jerusalem (Wikipedia)
• Om (Wikipedia)
• Monochord (Wikipedia)
• Cymatics: Chladni Plate - Sound, Vibration and Sand (YouTube)

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.

In this episode, the rich symbolism and rituals of the "Scottish Knight of Saint Andrew" degree in Freemasonry are explored in depth. The Saint Andrew’s Cross, an equal-armed x-shaped cross, is identified as the main symbol of the degree, with its presence in the ritual space and on the regalia of the officers, who are dressed as Knights. The cross is adorned with the Tetragrammaton, emphasizing the spiritual and elemental significance of the symbol. The ritual involves lighting candles in the shape of the cross, each representing a duty expected of a Knight of Saint Andrew, such as reverence for the Deity and service to Truth.
The episode delves into the nine knightly virtues that are central to the degree, which are grouped into three categories reflecting one's relationship to self, others, and actions in the world: Humility, Patience, and Self-denial; Charity, Clemency, and Generosity; and Virtue, Truth, and Honor.
The discussion also touches on the challenges posed by scientific skepticism to spiritual beliefs and the balance between embracing technology and maintaining spiritual integrity. The esoteric interpretations of the Saint Andrew’s Cross are examined, including its representation of the alchemical process and the integration of elemental forces within the individual.
The symbolism of the Banner of the Order, the concept of Western Yoga, and the significance of the Tetragrammaton are also discussed, culminating in reflections on the depth of the Scottish Rite system and its encapsulation of the Western Mystery Tradition.
The series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

• Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

Images:

• 29th Degree Regalia

Overview:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 01:51 Degree Ritual
• 08:34 Purpose of the Degree
• 09:08 Morals and Dogma
• 09:47 Knightly Virtues
• 11:49 Science and Technology
• 15:56 Saint Andrew’s Cross
• 17:30 Banner of the Order
• 19:02 Western Yoga
• 20:04 Crossing the Streams
• 22:08 Tetragrammaton
• 23:37 The Sphinx
• 26:11 The Lemniscate
• 27:10 The Juggler
• 28:54 Lucifer’s Crown
• 31:23 Third Eye
• 33:18 Conclusions

Links:

• Andrew the Apostle (Wikipedia)
• Robert the Bruce (Wikipedia)
• “Outlaw King” Trailer (YouTube)
• Knights Templar (Wikipedia)
• Battle of Bannockburn (Wikipedia)
• Picts (Wikipedia)
• Flag of Scotland (Wikipedia)
• Stream of Consciousness (Wikipedia)
• Magician Tarot Card (Wikipedia)
• Lemniscate (Wikipedia)
• Third Eye (Wikipedia)
• Pineal Gland (Wikipedia)

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.
In the episode, the intricate rituals and profound symbolism of the "Knight Commander of the Temple" degree are explored, revealing a ceremony steeped in historical reverence and moral testing. The degree, originating from the siege of St. Jean d'Acre, is depicted as a transformative journey where candidates undergo a rigorous process of self-examination, confession, and amends-making before being led into a ceremonially adorned hall. Here, they embody "Constans," a figure tested through trials that challenge their virtues of chastity, poverty, and obedience. The trials, designed to mirror the knightly vows, culminate in a knighting ceremony that only those who prove their unwavering commitment to justice and humanity can undergo. This segment of the episode vividly illustrates the degree's purpose: to instill in candidates the essence of knighthood, emphasizing truth, duty, and sacrifice.
The discussion further delves into the moral teachings from "Morals and Dogma," emphasizing the scarcity of truth in society and the knightly virtue of honesty. The episode draws parallels between historical knights and modern-day heroes who embody the spirit of self-sacrifice and duty, such as firefighters and pilots. The symbolism of the degree apron is analyzed, revealing layers of meaning in its heraldic elements that signify the union of light and darkness and the quest for inner truth. The episode concludes with reflections on the transformative power of ritual and the embodiment of chivalric values in the modern world, likening the degree to a "Grail Quest" that challenges individuals to live by a code of honor and truth. This summary encapsulates the essence of the discussion, highlighting the degree's rich symbolism and its relevance to contemporary moral and ethical challenges.
The series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

• Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

Images:

• Knight Commander of the Temple - Regalia

Overview:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 03:19 Ritual Context
• 03:45 Degree Ritual
• 12:42 Purpose of the Degree
• 14:04 Morals and Dogma
• 15:27 Truth
• 18:21 Religious-Military Orders
• 21:00 The Knight of Light Rises
• 22:50 Degree Apron
• 27:14 Conclusions

Links:

• Siege of Acre (1189–1191) (Wikipedia)
• Hospitaller commandery of Saint-Jean-d'Acre (Wikipedia)
• Teutonic Order (Wikipedia)
• Knights Hospitaller (Wikipedia)
• Knights Templar (Wikipedia)
• Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (Wikipedia)
• Heraldry (Wikipedia)
• Saladin (Wikipedia)
• Kingdom of Jerusalem (Wikipedia)
• True Cross (Wikipedia)