The Mystagogue, or the Origin of Ancient Mysteries and Hieroglyphs

An ornamental horizontal rule at the top of the page, consisting of symmetrical scrollwork and floral flourishes.

of the Sections Contained Herein.

---

First Section.

Original Religion of the Peoples page 1

Second Section.

The Cause of Idolatry The worship of physical images or multiple deities, often contrasted in historical texts with a "pure" original monotheism. 3

Third Section.

On the Origin of Hieroglyphs At the time of this writing, hieroglyphs were often viewed as mystical or symbolic codes rather than a phonetic writing system. 10

Fourth Section.

On the Origin of the Mysteries Secret religious rites or initiations, such as those at Eleusis, which were restricted to "enlightened" participants. 14

Fifth Section.

Investigation into Whether the Mysteries Existed Prior to the Dispersal of the Nations A reference to the biblical "Scattering of the Nations" following the Tower of Babel. 15

Sixth Section.

Origin of the Egyptian Mysteries 22

Seventh Section.

History of the Subjects of the Egyptian Mysteries 25

Eighth Section.

Initiation into the Egyptian Mysteries 41