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PROBATIONER GRADE: PURPOSE AND METHOD
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Herein we make the Aspirant fully aware of the components of the
Probationary Grade, that he or she may be admitted, having been
duly informed of the tasks of the grade, and the requirements
necessary to advance.
Entrance: Undergoes the Probationer’s
Initiation (see below), taking the oath and receiving the first
instruction of their grade. This initiation is not binding and
the Probationer may cease their studies and withdraw without
consequence.
Objectives: To begin studying the general
history and the different systems of Magick and Mysticism, for
the purpose of establishing within themselves their suitability
for initiation into the next grade. The Probationer accomplishes
the tasks of their grade in preparation for the grade test.
Methods: |
1. Initiation.
2. Complete the tasks of the Grade List.
3. Complete the Required Reading
4. Complete the Magick Record and Journal of the grade
work.
5. Verify suitability.
6. Pass the grade test.
7. Complete preparations to advance to the grade of
Neophyte. |
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Results: Properly maintained Magick Record and
Journal of the grade. The Magick Record to be submitted for
review before the grade test.
Verification: Submit required essay and pass
the grade test to verify suitability for Initiation into the
grade of Neophyte.
Advancement: Upon successfully completing the
grade work and passing of the grade test, the Probationer must
formulate, with deep forethought and intense solemnity, a motto.
This magical name is the expression of the highest will and
should attempt to express the will of the Neophyte in so far as
it is currently comprehended.
Abraxas Method: The Probationer has one solar
cycle to complete the tasks of their grade, make the decision to
proceed into the next grade, and then prove their capacity to
undertake the work of the next grade by passing the grade test.
If the decision to proceed is made and finalized before the full
solar cycle has elapsed, there is the danger of an incorrect
decision born from haste. This may include any number of factors
(For example; not suited for the work, lack of lasting interest,
not equipped for the tasks, unable to devote necessary time,
etc) not fully contemplated or discovered by the Probationer.
Completion at the end of the solar cycle is strictly enforced,
save for extraordinary exceptions born from extreme causes.
There are two reasons for limiting the time given to the
Probationer: |
1) Demonstrates a commitment and willingness to
apply themselves to the grade work.
2) Demonstrates the minimum skill level required to
undertake the work of the next grade. |
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The original system of the A∴ A∴ did not impose a time limit on
the Probationer. Many frivolous and vain people clung to the
Order for years in the grade of Probationer, never advancing. If
a Probationer cannot complete the work within one solar cycle,
it is a clear indication that something within the Candidate is
lacking. It is also likely the Candidate will never advance
beyond the Probationary grade. There were a few Probationers
that did take more then one solar cycle and went on to become
Neophytes, however if a time limit had been imposed, they most
likely would have redoubled their efforts and advanced in the
time allotted.
The Probationer’s grade is the only grade that imposes a maximum
time limit on the student. There are grades that have a minimum
time that must be spent before proceeding onto the next grade.
Although the Probationer is given a lot of material for General
Study, the time limit imposed is offset by thoroughly testing
only a few key tasks. However, any of the optional study or
practice missed in the Probationary grade must be finished and
tested in Neophyte.
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INITIATION |
Priest(ess): Do what
thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.
Initiate: Love is
the law, love under will.
Priest(ess): The
word of the law is:
Initiate: Thelema.
Priest(ess): Whence
comest thou?
Initiate: I know
not.
Priest(ess): Then
shalt thou proceed to obtain the scientific knowledge of the
nature and powers of thyself and of the Great Work?
Initiate: I do and
will.
Priest(ess): Who
vouches for thee?
Endorser: I the
guider of lost souls. |
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VOW OF SILENCE |
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I (name), in the presence of all here and assembled, man or god,
living or spirit, do by an act of my free will, give my solemn
oath that I shall keep secret all those things entrusted to my
ears alone by this group or its members, except if it be a
Brother or Sister of this group who is properly prepared, as I
am now: All this I swear upon my existence now, and henceforth
forever, and may the Magick I possess now, and henceforth
forever turn against me should I wilfully break this most solemn
oath. |
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PROCLAMATION |
Priest(ess): Let the Probationer complete (his
| her) grade within one solar cycle, whence the test shall be
passed, else the Probationer shall be dismissed.
Endorser: Let the Probationer be duly received
with feast and celebration.
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