Initiation into the Ancient Secret Society of Egyptian Priests

The more steadfastly he endured this temptation, the greater the praise he received upon his acceptance.

He was again led up to two high pillars, between which was seen a predatory bird—a griffin—rolling a wheel before itself 23).

It was explained to him that these pillars signify the east and the west. The griffin represented the sun, and the wheel with four spokes signified the four seasons.

Soon after, they taught him the art of establishing water levels original: водяные вѣсы (vodyanyye vesy), literally "water scales." In this context, it refers to the chorobates or similar instruments used by ancient architects to determine horizontal planes.. They also demonstrated Geometry and Architecture to him, and he began his training

23. An illustration of this can be found in the book called the Great Roman Cabinet original: Большой Кабинетъ Римской. This is a reference to Le Grand Cabinet Romain (1706) by Michel-Ange de La Chausse, a famous collection of engravings of Roman antiquities and symbols.. Page 94.