“Inheritors of a dying world, we call thee to the living beauty; wanderer in the wild darkness, we call thee to the gentle light. Long has thou dwelt in the darkness, quit the night and seek the day!” – Neophyte Ritual
DEGREE 0: NEOPHYTE
Grade: (0=0)
Alchemical Stage: Pre-Nigredo (seeking the Prima Materia)
Sephirah: Not yet on Tree
Tarot: The Fool (0)
Fourfold Path Position: Page (seeking to become Knight)
Overview
Duration: Variable (3 months to 1 year typical)
Entry Requirement: Sincere desire to walk the Path
The Probationer is the seeker who has heard the call but has not yet formally entered the grades. This is the time of preparation, gathering tools, establishing basic practices, and learning the foundational concepts of the Royal Art.
Core Practices
- Introduction to basic concepts (Tree of Life, Elements, Tarot, ACIM)
- Daily practice establishment (morning quiet time, ACIM reading, evening review)
- Physical preparation (temple space, tools, altar)
- Study: What is the Royal Art? What is the Path? Basic symbolism
- Decide magical name/motto
Curriculum
Daily Practice
- Morning quiet time with God (5-15 minutes)
- ACIM reading (introduction to Text)
- Evening review and gratitude
- Begin establishing ritual rhythm
Study Focus
- The Tree of Life (basic overview)
- The Four Elements
- The Tarot (Major Arcana overview)
- A Course in Miracles (Text, introductory chapters)
- Basic Hermetic principles
Physical Preparation
- Setting up a temple space or altar
- Acquiring basic tools (journal, candles, incense)
- Beginning to care for the body as temple
Initiation Ritual
Self-dedication or received from mentor
The Probationer may perform a self-dedication ritual or, if working with a mentor, receive a formal welcoming into the path. This marks the commitment to walk the Royal Path.
Recommended Reading
- A Course in Miracles (Text, introduction)
- The Tree of Life by Israel Regardie (overview)
Advancement Requirement
When the Probationer has established a stable daily practice, demonstrated sincere commitment, and completed foundational study, they are ready to advance to Zelator (1=10) and begin the First Order work with the element of Earth.