Initiation into the Ancient Secret Society of Egyptian Priests

Between these two pillars was a ladder of seven steps, and it had eight doors made of various metals 14). However, these HieroglyphsIn this context, the word refers to the symbolic objects and architecture of the ritual chamber rather than a system of writing; they are "sacred carvings" or symbols to be interpreted. were not explained to the student until after the HierophantThe presiding high priest of the mysteries who reveals the sacred secrets. delivered the following speech:

“I address you, who
have the right to hear
me. Lock all the doors
firmly, so that the un-
initiated and the scof-
fers cannot enter here.
But you, Mene Musee, or
children of the labors of
heavenly investigation,
listen to my speech! I
offer you great truths:
beware of prejudices and
passions, which lead you
away from the true path
of bliss; direct your
thoughts toward the
knowledge of God, and
let it always be before
your eyes, so that

14. Origen against Celsus, p. 341. Schöpf’s Lexicon, Volume IV, p. 334.The first reference is to Origen’s "Contra Celsum," a 3rd-century work defending Christianity against the philosopher Celsus. "Schöpf’s Lexicon" likely refers to a contemporary 18th-century academic reference work used to provide historical weight to the ritual’s claims.