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Correspondence from Aleister Crowley to Karl Germer
[16 September 1946]
COPY. From Letter from 666 [to Karl Germer], Sept. 16, 1946.
"The difference between the A∴A∴ and the O.T.O. is very clear and simple. The A∴A∴ is a sempiternal institution, and entirely secret. There is no communication between its members. Theoretically, a member knows only the superior who introduced him, and any person whom he himself has introduced. The Order is run on purely spiritual lines.
The object of membership is also entirely simple. The first objective is the Knowledge and Conversation of the Holy Guardian Angel. The next objective, omitting considerations for the present of the VI = V, and VII = IV degrees, is the crossing of the Abyss, and the attainment of mastership of the Temple. This is described very fully especially in Liber 418 [The Vision and the Voice]. Much less is written about the V = VI degree, i.e. the Knowledge and Conversation, because it is too secret and individual. It is impossible to lay down conditions, or to describe the experiences involved in detail.
The O.T.O. has nothing to do with this, except that the Book of the Law and the Word of the Aeon are essential principles of membership. In all other respects, it stands by itself as a body similar to Freemasonry, but involving acceptance of a social and economic system which is intended to put the world on its feet. There is also, of course, the secret of the IX° which is so to say, the weapon which they may use to further these purposes.
To show you the difference. Theodor Reuss was a Supreme Head of the O.T.O., but was not even probationer of the A∴A∴
When in California I had been asked for a formal and official statement on the above subject, so I asked 666 for it, and here it is.
CC to
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[Karl Germer]