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[[Image:templeofrosycross.png|right|thumb|300px|''The Temple of the Rose Cross,'' Teophilus Schweighardt Constantiens, 1618.]]
  
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'''Rosicrucianism''' (meaning "Rose Cross") refers to a family of secret societies formed in late medieval [[Germany]], which taught esoteric practices that were concealed from the average person.<ref>Carl Edwin Lindgren, online ''[http://users.panola.com/lindgren/rosecross.html The way of the Rose Cross; A Historical Perception, 1614-1620].'' ''panola.org''. Retrieved July 16, 2008.''Journal of Religion and Psychical Research'' 18 (3) (1995): 141-148. </ref> The meetings of these societies were held in private and thus Rosicrucians became known as the "College of Invisibles."
  
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[[Image:templeofrosycross.png|thumb|300px|"The Temple of the Rose Cross", [[Daniel Mogling|Teophilus Schweighardt Constantiens]], [[1618]].]]
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Rosicrucianism was based on an amalgamation of Christian mysticism with the occult tradition. Between 1607 and 1616, two anonymous Rosicrucian manifestos were published, first in Germany and later throughout Europe. These were known as the ''Fama Fraternitatis R.C.'' (The Fame of the Brotherhood of R.C) and ''Confessio Fraternitatis'' (The Confession of the Brotherhood of R.C.). The influence of these documents, presenting a "most laudable Order" of mystic-philosopher-doctors and promoting a "Universal Reformation of Mankind," gave rise to an enthusiasm called by its historian Dame Frances Yates the "Rosicrucian Enlightenment".<ref>Frances Yates, ''The Rosicrucian Enlightnment'', London, 1972.</ref>
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The '''Rosicrucian Order''' is a legendary [[esoteric]] order with its roots in the [[western mystery tradition]]. This [[Hermeticism|hermetic]] order is viewed among earlier and many modern Rosicrucianists as a "College of Invisibles" from the [[Plane (cosmology)|inner worlds]], composed of great [[Adepts]], aiming to give assistance in humanity's [[Spirituality|spiritual]] development.
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Several modern societies, which date the origins of the Order to earlier centuries, have been formed for the study of Rosicrucianism and allied subjects. However, many researchers on the history of Rosicrucianism argue that modern Rosicrucianists are in no sense directly linked to any real society of the early seventeenth century. Members of modern organized Initiatic groups, which call themselves "Rosicrucian," thus date the beginning of the Order to much more ancient times than proposed by historians.
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The "Brethren of the [[Rose Cross]]" is perceived by students of metaphysics as an important part or even the source of the [[hermeticism|hermetic]]-[[Christian]] tradition of the western [[alchemy]] treatises period subsequent to the publication of Dante's ''[[The Divine Comedy]]'' (1308-1321).
 
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However, researchers of history and society in general through the last centuries, dealing with objective material proofs, assume its origin in a group of German protestants, between 1607 and 1616, when three anonymous documents were elaborated and published in Europe: ''[[Fama Fraternitatis|Fama Fraternitatis Rosae Crucis]]'', ''[[Confessio Fraternitatis]]'', and ''[[Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz]] anno 1459''. The influence of these documents, presenting the "most laudable Order" and promoting a "Universal Reformation of Mankind", was so huge that the historian [[Frances Yates]] refers to this period of the [[17th century]] as the ''Rosicrucian Enlightenment''.  Members of organized Rosicrucian groups, however, date the beginning of the Order to much more ancient times.
 
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==Origins==
 
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In the [[17th century]], three Rosicrucian manifestos were anonymously published: ''[[Fama Fraternitatis]]'' in [[1614]], ''[[Confessio Fraternitatis|Confessio Fraternitatis]]'' in [[1615]], and the ''[[Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz]]'' in [[1616]]. Together they presented the legend of a German pilgrim named "C.R.C." (later introduced in the third Manifesto as [[Christian Rosenkreuz]]). The legend tells that this pilgrim studied in the [[Middle East]] under various [[occult]] masters and founded the Rosicrucian Order, which aimed to bring about a "universal reformation of mankind."  During Rosenkreuz's lifetime, the Order was said to consist of no more than eight members, and when he died, the Order disappeared, only to be "reborn" in the early [[17th century]] at the time of the publication of the manifestos.
 
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The manifestos were filled with symbolism and have been interpreted in many ways over the centuries.  They do not directly state Rosenkreuz's years of birth and death, but in the ''Confessio Fraternitatis'' the year [[1378]] is presented as being the birth year of "our Christian Father," and it is stated that they could describe the 106 years of his life, which would imply the year [[1484]] for his death. The foundation of the Order can be similarly deduced to have occurred in [[1407]]. However, these dates are not taken literally by many students of [[occultism]], and are considered as allegorical statements for the understanding of the [[Initiation|initiated]]. The reasoning arises from the manifestos themselves: on one hand, the Rosicrucians clearly adopted the [[Pythagoreanism|Pythagorean]] tradition of envisioning objects and ideas in terms of their numeric aspects, and, on the other hand, they directly state: "We speak unto you by parables, but would willingly bring you to the right, simple, easy, and ingenuous exposition, understanding, declaration, and knowledge of all secrets," but that a fundamental requisite to achieve this [[esoteric knowledge|knowledge]] is "that we be earnest to attain to the understanding and knowledge of philosophy."
 
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===Some interpretations about the origins===
 
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According to a lesser-known legend of the [[18th century]] Rosicrucian group called the Golden and Rosy Cross, the Rosicrucian Order was created in the year [[46]] when an [[Alexandria]]n [[Gnosticism|Gnostic]] sage named Ormus and his six followers were converted by one of [[Jesus]]' disciples, [[Mark the Evangelist|Mark]]. From this conversion, Rosicrucianism was supposedly born, fusing early [[Christianity]] with [[Egyptian Mythology|Egyptian]] [[Mystery religion|mysteries]].
 
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According to Émile Dantinne ([[1884]]&ndash;[[1969]]), the origins of the Rosicrucians may have an [[Islamic]] connection.  As described in ''Fama Fraternitatis'' in 1614, Rosenkreuz started his pilgrimage at the age of 16.  This led him to [[Arabia]], [[Egypt]], and [[Morocco]], where he came into contact with sages of the East, who revealed to him the "universal harmonic science." After learning Arabic philosophy in [[Jerusalem]], he was led to ''Damcar''. This place remains a mystery – it did not become [[Damascus]], but is somewhere not too far from Jerusalem. Then he stopped briefly in [[Egypt]]. Soon afterwards he embarked to [[Fez, Morocco|Fes]], a center of philosophical and occult studies, such as the alchemy of [[Abu-Abdallah]], Gabir ben Hayan, and [[Jafar as-Sadiq|Imam Jafar al Sadiq]], the astrology and magic of Ali-ash-Shabramallishi, and the esoteric science of Abdarrahman ben Abdallah al Iskari. However, Dantinne states that Rosenkreuz may have found his secrets amongst the "[[Brethren of Purity]]," a society of philosophers that had formed in [[Basra]] ([[Iraq]]) sometime during the [[900s]]. Their doctrine had its source in the study of the ancient [[Greek philosophers]], but it became more neo-Pythagorean. They adopted the Pythagorean tradition of envisioning objects and ideas in terms of their numeric aspects.  Their [[theurgy]] and [[esoteric]] knowledge is expounded in an epistolary style in the [[Encyclopedia of the Brethren of Purity]].
 
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The "Brethren of Purity" and the [[Sufism|Sufis]] were united in many points of doctrine. They both were mystical orders deriving from [[Qur'an|Qur'anic]] theology but supplanting [[dogma]] with a faith in the "Divine Reality." There were many similarities between the Rosicrucian way as expressed in the Manifestos, and the way of life of the Brethren of Purity. Neither group wore special clothing, both practiced abstinence, they healed the sick, and they offered their teachings free of charge. Similarities also were evident in the doctrinal elements of their [[theurgy]] and the story of Creation in terms of [[emanationism]].
 
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According to Maurice Magre ([[1877]]&ndash;[[1941]]) in his book ''[[Magicians, Seers, and Mystics]]'', Rosenkreutz was the last descendant of the [[Germelschausen]], a German family from the [[13th century]]. Their castle stood in the [[Thuringian Forest]] on the border of [[Hesse]], and they embraced [[Albigense]]'s doctrines, combining pagan and Christian beliefs. The whole family was put to death by [[Konrad von Marburg|Landgrave Conrad]] of [[Thuringia]], except for the youngest son, then five years old. He was carried away secretly by a monk, an Albigensian adept from [[Languedoc]] and placed in a monastery under the influence of the Albigenses, where he was educated and met the four Brothers later to be associated with him in the founding of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood. Magre's account supposedly derives from oral tradition.
 
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===Current-day views=== 
 
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Thanks to the complexity and subjectivity of the ideas expressed in the Manifestos, there are many different perspectives about them among contemporary Rosicrucianists: some accept the legend as literal truth, others see it as a set of "parables" with deeper meanings, and yet others believe Rosenkreuz to be a pseudonym for a more famous historical figure, usually [[Francis Bacon (philosopher)|Francis Bacon]].
 
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Several modern societies have been formed for the study of Rosicrucianism and allied subjects. However, many researchers on the history of Rosicrucianism argue that modern Rosicrucianists are in no sense directly derived from those  of the 17th century. Instead, they are considered to be keen followers. Moreover, some have viewed the 17th century Order as a literary hoax or prank, rather than an operative society. Others contend that history shows them to be the genesis of later operative and functional societies. Rosicrucianism and is generally associated with the symbol of the Rose Cross.
 
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The curious legend in which the fabulous origin of the society was established was so improbable that the genesis of the Rosicrucians was generally overlooked or ignored in the writings of the time. Christian Rosenkreuz had discovered and learned the Secret Wisdom on a pilgrimage to the East in the 15th century. The metaphorical quality of these legends lends to the nebulous nature of the origins of Rosicrucianism. For example, the opening of Rosenkreuz's tomb is thought to be only a way of referring to the cycles in [[nature]] and to [[cosmic]] events and the Rosenkreuz's pilgrimage seems to refer to [[transmutation]] steps of the [[Philosophers' stone|Great Work]].
 
  
 
==History==
 
==History==
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It is on the foundation of these teachings that Rosenkreuz conceived the plan for simultaneous and universal religious, philosophic, scientific, political, and artistic reform. To implement his plan, he united with several disciples (seven at first, according to ''Fama Fraternitatis''), to whom he gave the name of Rose-Croix.  
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[[Image:Prosphil.jpg|right|thumb|Frater C.R.C. - Christian Rosenkreuz (symbolic representation).]]
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According to a medieval legend,<ref>E. J. Marconis de Negre, "Brief History of Masonry," Excerpted from ''The Sanctuary of Memphis.'' (Paris: 1849).</ref> the Rosicrucian Order was created in the year 46 C.E. when an [[Alexandria]]n [[Gnosticism|Gnostic]] sage named Ormus and his six followers were converted by [[Jesus]]' disciple Mark. Their symbol was said to be a red cross surmounted by a rose, thus the designation of Rosy Cross. From this conversion, Rosicrucianism was supposedly born, by purifying Egyptian [[Mystery religion|mysteries]] with the new higher teachings of early [[Christianity]].<ref>Further research in [http://www.book-of-thoth.com/article1662.html Legend and Mythology: Ormus], ''book-of-thoth.com''. Retrieved June 25, 2008.</ref> However, most historians claim that the Order of the Rose Cross was founded in the early fourteenth century by a group of individuals who adopted the symbolic name of Christian Rosenkreuz. It was said that Christian Rosenkreuz had discovered and learned the Secret Wisdom on a pilgrimage to the East in the fifteenth century.  
  
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[[Image:Fama.jpg|thumb|left|The publication of the [[Fama Fraternitatis|Fama Fraternitatis Rosae Crucis]] ([[1614]])]]
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According to Maurice Magre (1877&ndash;1941) in his book ''Magicians, Seers, and Mystics,'' Rosenkreutz was the last descendant of the Germelshausen, a German family from the thirteenth century. Their castle stood in the Thuringian Forest on the border of Hesse, and they embraced [[Albigensian doctrines]], combining pagan and Christian beliefs. The whole family was put to death by Landgrave Conrad of Thuringia, except for the youngest son, then five years old. He was carried away secretly by a monk, an Albigensian adept from Languedoc and placed in a monastery under the influence of the Albigenses, where he was educated and met the four Brothers later to be associated with him in the founding of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood. Magre's account supposedly derives from oral tradition.
  
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What was known in the early 17th century as the "Fraternity of the Rose Cross" — approximately a century prior to [[Adam Weishaupt]]'s [[Age of Enlightenment|Enlightenment]] [[secret society]], the [[Illuminati]] — seems to scholars that have been a number of isolated individuals who held certain views in common, which apparently was their only bond of union. These views were regarding [[hermeticism|hermetic]] knowledge, related to the higher nature of man, and also with common [[philosophy|philosophical]] concepts of the foundation of a more perfected human society. There is no trace of a formal brotherhood or secret society which held meetings, or had officers or leaders and for this reason it has been deduced that the writers who posed as Rosicrucians were moral and religious reformers, and utilized the techniques of chemistry ([[alchemy]]), and the sciences generally, as media through which to publicize their opinions and beliefs. Their writings included a hint of [[mysticism]] or [[occultism]], promoting inquiry and suggesting hidden meanings discernible or discoverable only by "Adepts."
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According to the ''Fama Fraternitatis,'' Rosicrucuanism crystalized in the teachings of the German doctor and mystic philosopher Christian Rosenkreuz ("Roses-cross"). Having studied in the [[Middle East]] under various masters, he had failed to interest the powerful people of his time in the knowledge he had acquired, so instead had gathered a small circle of friends/disciples founded the Order of RC (this can be similarly deduced to have occurred in 1407).  
  
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The publications of ''Fama Fraternitatis Rosae Crucis'' ''Confessio Fraternitatis'' ([[1615]]), and ''Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz'' caused immense excitement throughout Europe.  These works declared the existence of a secret brotherhood of alchemists and sages who were preparing to transform the arts, sciences, religion, political, and intellectual landscape of Europe while wars of politics and religion ravaged the continent. Not only were these works re-issued several times, but they were followed by numerous pamphlets, favourable and otherwise, whose authors generally knew little of the real aims of the original author and often amused themselves at the public’s expense. It is probable that the first work was circulated in manuscript form about [[1610]], even though there was no mention of the order before that decade.  In his autobiography, [[Johann Valentin Andreae]] ([[1586]]&ndash;[[1654]]) claimed the anonymously published Chymische Hochzeit ("Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz") as one of his works, although he subsequently described as a [[Ludibrium]]. However, in his later works, alchemy is the object of ridicule and is placed with music, art, theatre and astrology in the category of less serious sciences. His role in the origin of the Rosicrucian legend is controversial.
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Around 1530, more than 80 years before the publication of the first manifesto, the association of cross and rose already existed in Portugal in the Convent of the Order of Christ, home of the [[Knights Templar]], later renamed Order of Christ. Three ''bocetes'' were, and still are, on the ''abóboda'' (vault) of the initiation room. The rose can clearly be seen at the center of the cross.<ref>[http://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ant%C3%B3nio_de_Macedo Macedo, António de] (2000), ''Instruções Iniciáticas - Ensaios Espirituais,'' 2nd edition, (Lisbon: Hughin Editores, ISBN 9728534000), 55</ref><ref>J. Manuel Gandra, (1998), ''Portugal Misterioso'' ''(Os Templários).'' (Lisbon), 348-349</ref> At the same time, a minor writing by [[Paracelsus]] called ''Prognosticatio Eximii Doctoris Paracelsi'' (1530), containing 32 [[prophecy|prophecies]] with [[allegory|allegorical]] pictures surrounded by enigmatic texts, makes reference to an image of a double cross over an open rose; this is one of the examples used to prove the "Fraternity of the Rose Cross" existed far earlier than 1614.<ref>Stanislas de Guaita, (1886), ''Au seuil du Mystère- Essais de Sciences Maudites.'' (Paris: Georges Carre, ÉDITEUR).</ref>
  
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[[Image:Luthseal.gif|right|frame|[[Martin Luther]]'s seal]]
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===Pre-Nazi Germany===
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[[Image:lutherseal.jpg|right|thumb|Ancient wax seal, shown inverted, with the possible inscription "D: M. Luther"(?) and alchemical symbols (Pallas, Earth & Mercury or Salt, Sulfur & Mercury or spiritus, amimas & corpus), found in [[Rhone River]], [[Germany]]]]
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The Gold und Rosenkreuzer (Golden and Rosy Cross) was founded by the alchemist [[Samuel Richter]] (Sincerus Renatus)<ref>In 1710, Sigmund (or Samuel) Richter published a work at Breslau with the title ''Die warhhaffte und vollkommene Bereitung des Philosophischen Steins der Brüderschaft aus dem Orden des Gülden-und Rosen-Creutzes'' under the pseudonym Sincerus Renatus. (Nicholas Goodrick-Clarke. ''The Occult Roots of Nazism.'' (London: Palgrave/Macmillan UK/Tauris Parke Paperbacks, 2003), 59</ref> in [[Prague]] in the early eighteenth century, not as free brotherhood as envisaged by the original ''Rosicrucian Manifestos,'' but as a deeply hierarchical secret society, composed of internal circles, recognition signs and based upon alchemy treatises. This group, under the leadership of Hermann Fictuld, reformed itself extensively in 1767 and again in 1777 because of an edict of the ruler in 1764 and another in 1766. Its members claimed that the leaders of the Rosicrucian Order had invented Freemasonry and only they knew the secret meaning of Masonic symbols. According to this group's legend, the Rosicrucian Order was founded by Egyptian “Ormusse” or “Licht-Weise” who emigrated to Scotland with the name “Builders from the East.” Then the original Order disappeared and was supposed to have been resurrected by [[Oliver Cromwell]] as “Freemasonry.” In 1785 and 1788 the Golden and Rosy Cross group published the ''Geheime Figuren'' or “The Secret Symbols of the 16th and 17th century Rosicrucians.”
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The authors of the Rosicrucian works generally favoured [[Lutheranism]]. However, the relationship between Lutheranism and the Rosicrucians is ambiguous, but some have suggested a connection: Rosicrucian documents denounce the hypocrisy in the Catholic Church of those times; the symbol of [[Martin Luther]] is a cross inside an open rose; and, from May 1521 until March 1522, Luther stayed at the [[Wartburg Castle]] southwest of the [[Thuringian forest]], where Rosenkreuz is said to have been born.  
 
  
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Around [[1530]], more than eighty years before the publication of the first manifesto, the association of cross and rose already existed in Portugal in the [[Convent of the Order of Christ]], home of the [[Knights Templar]], later renamed [[Order of Christ (Portugal)|Order of Christ]]. Three ''[[bocetes]]'' were, and still are, on the ''abóboda'' of the initiation room. The rose can clearly be seen at the center of the cross. At the same time, a minor writing by [[Paracelsus]] called ''Prognosticatio Eximii Doctoris Paracelsi'' (1530) contained a reference to, and image of, a double cross over an open rose. The [[occultist]] [[Stanislas de Guaita]], "Au seuil du Mystère" (1886), used Paracelsus' writing, and other examples, to prove the "Fraternity of the Rose Cross" existed far earlier than 1614.
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Led by Johann Christoph von Wöllner and General Johann Rudolf von Bischoffwerder, the Masonic lodge (later: ''Grand Lodge'') ''Zu den drei Weltkugeln'' was infiltrated and came under the influence of the Golden and Rosy Cross. Many Freemasons became Rosicrucianists and Rosicrucianism was established in many lodges. In 1782 at the Convent of Wilhelmsbad the ''Alte schottische Loge Friedrich zum goldenen Löwen'' in Berlin strongly requested Ferdinand, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg and all other Freemasons to submit to the Golden and Rosy Cross, without success.
  
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It is evident that the first Rosicrucian manifesto, ''Fama Fraternitatis'', was influenced by the work of the respected hermetic philosopher [[Heinrich Khunrath]], of Hamburg, author of the ''Amphitheatrum Sapientiae Aeternae'' (1609).  He was in turn strongly influenced by the work of the mysterious philosopher and alchemist [[John Dee]], author of the ''[[Monas Hieroglyphica]]'' (1564). In fact, the invitation to the royal wedding opens with the Monas Heiroglyphica symbol.
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After 1782, this highly secretive society - a secret society that had previously disseminated through its founder that the original Rosicrucians had left to the East ''(see section above on history)'' and a very different society than that of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood of the original Manifestos which had presented ideals of [[spirituality]] and aims of freedom and reformation for mankind - added Egyptian, Greek and Druidic mysteries to its alchemy system.<ref>Jean-Pierre Bayard, ''Les Rose-Croix.'' (Paris: M.A. Édition, 1986)</ref> A comparative study of what is known about the Gold and Rosenkreuzer, appears to reveal, on one hand, that it has influenced the creation of some modern Initiatic groups that were founded with an akin system; and, on the other hand, that the [[Nazism]] destructive ideology, supported in occult knowledge <ref>(see The Occult Roots of Nazism)''</ref> and in a system of highly hierarchical and secretive organizations, may have been inspired by this German group (Gold und Rosenkreuzer) of the eighteenth century, and derived ramifications.
  
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The legend and ideas presented in the first two manifestos and in the "Chymical Wedding"  inspired a variety of works. Among these, are the works of [[Michael Maier]] (1568&ndash;1622) of Germany, [[Robert Fludd]] (1574&ndash;1637) and [[Elias Ashmole]] (1617&ndash;1692)  of England and many others, such as [[Teophilus Schweighardt Constantiens]], [[Gotthardus Arthusius]], [[Julius Sperber]], [[Henricus Madathanus]], [[Gabriel Naudé]], [[Thomas Vaughan]] (Sédir, ''Les Rose-Croix'', Paris 1972, p. 59 to 68). Elias Ashmole published the ''[[Theatrum Chimicum britannicum]]'' in 1650 and in the preface to this work he defends the Rosicrucians. Some later works with an impact on Rosicrucianism were the ''Opus magocabalisticum et theosophicum'' by [[George von Welling]] (1719), of [[alchemical]] and [[paracelsian]] inspiration, and the ''Aureum Vellus oder Goldenes Vliess'' by [[Hermann Fictuld]] in 1749.
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During Rosenkreuz's lifetime, the Order was said to consist of no more than eight members, each a doctor and a sworn bachelor who undertook to heal the sick without payment, to maintain a secret fellowship and to find a replacement for himself before he died. Three such generations had supposedly passed between c. 1500 and c. 1600 and scientific, philosophical and religious freedom had now grown so that the public might benefit from their knowledge.<ref>Bernard Gorceix. ''La Bible des Rose-Croix.'' (Paris: 1970), a work of reference, containing excellent translations of the three Rosicrucian Manifestos, recommended in ''Accès de l'Ésoterisme Occidental'' (1986, 1996) by Antoine Faivre (École Pratique des Hautes Études, Sorbonne)</ref>
  
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Michael Maier was ennobled with the title ''Pfalzgraf'' (Count Palatine) by [[Rudolph II]], Emperor and King of [[Hungary]] and King of [[Bohemia]]. He also was one of the most prominent defenders of the Rosicrucians, clearly transmitting details about the "Brothers of the Rose Cross" in his writings. Maier made the firm statement that the Brothers of R.C. exist to advance inspired arts and sciences, including [[Alchemy]]. Researchers of Maier's writings point out that he never claimed to have produced gold, nor did Heinrich Khunrath nor any of the other Rosicrucianists. Their writings point toward a symbolic and spiritual Alchemy, rather than an operative one. In both direct and veiled styles, these writings conveyed the nine stages of the involutive-evolutive transmutation of the ''threefold body'' of the human being, the ''threefold soul'' and the ''threefold spirit'', among other [[esoteric knowledge]] related to the "Path of Initiation".
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It is evident that the first ''Rosicrucian manifesto'' was influenced by the work of the respected hermetic philosopher Heinrich Khunrath, of Hamburg, author of the ''Amphitheatrum Sapientiae Aeternae'' (1609), who was in turn influenced by [[John Dee]], author of the ''Monas Hieroglyphica'' (1564). The invitation to the royal wedding in the ''Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz'' opens with Dee's philosophical key, the Monas Heiroglyphica symbol. The writer also claimed the brotherhood possessed a book that resembled the works of [[Paracelsus]].
  
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In his 1618 manifesto, ''Pia et Utilissima Admonitio de Fratribus Rosae Crucis'', [[Henrichus Neuhusius]] stated that the Rosicrucians left for the East due to the instability in Europe at the time (the forthcoming [[Thirty Years' War]]. [[Samuel Ritcher]] in 1710, and later [[René Guénon]], 1886&ndash;1951, also presented this idea in some of their works. However, another eminent author on the Rosicrucians, [[Arthur Edward Waite]], contradicts this idea.  It was in this fertile field of discourse that many "Rosicrucian" societies arose.  They were based on the occult tradition and inspired by the mystery of this "College of Invisibles."
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[[Image:Luthseal.gif|left|frame|[[Martin Luther]]'s seal.]] Some say the writers were moral and religious reformers and utilized the techniques of chemistry ([[alchemy]]) and the sciences generally as media through which to publicize their opinions and beliefs. The authors of the Rosicrucian works generally favored the [[Reformation]] and distanced themselves from the Roman church and [[Islam]]. The symbol of Martin Luther is a cross inside an open rose.  
  
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===Alleged influence on Freemasonry===
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The manifestos were not taken literally by many but were often considered either as a hoax or as allegorical statements. The manifestos directly state: "We speak unto you by parables, but would willingly bring you to the right, simple, easy, and ingenuous exposition, understanding, declaration, and knowledge of all secrets." Others believe Rosenkreuz to be a pseudonym for a more famous historical figure, usually [[Francis Bacon]].
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[[Image:Bijou fm 18eme.jpg|thumb|170px|right|18° ''Knight of the Rose Croix'' jewel (from the Masonic [[Scottish Rite]])]]
 
  
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According to [[Jean Pierre Bayard]], two Rosicrucian-inspired [[Freemasonry|Masonic]] rites emerged from the end of 18th century. One was the [[Rectified Scottish Rite]], which was widespread in Central Europe where there was a strong presence of the "Golden and Rosy Cross". The other was the [[Scottish Rite|Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite]], first practiced in [[France]], in which the 18th degree is called ''[[Scottish Rite#The Rose Croix|Knight of the Rose Croix]]''.  
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[[Image:Fama.jpg|thumb|right|The publication of the ''Fama Fraternitatis Rosae Crucis'' (1614)]]
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The manifestos caused immense excitement throughout Europe: they declared the existence of a secret brotherhood of alchemists and sages who were preparing to transform the arts, sciences, religion, and political and intellectual landscape of Europe while wars of politics and religion ravaged the continent. The works were re-issued several times and followed by numerous pamphlets, favourable and otherwise. Between 1614 and 1620, about 400 manuscripts and books were published which discussed the Rosicrucian documents.
  
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Although many attempts have been made to learn about the change from "operative" to "speculative" Masonry, no definitive answer has yet been found, other than that it occurred between the end of the 16th and the beginning of the 17th century. Two of the first speculative Masons were Sir [[Robert Moray]] and [[Elias Ashmole]].  
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===In Paris===
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The peak of the so-called "Rosicrucianism furor" was reached when two mysterious posters appeared in the walls of Paris in 1622 within a few days of each other. The first one started with the saying "''We, the Deputies of the Higher College of the Rose-Croix, do make our stay, visibly and invisibly, in this city (…)''" and the second one ended with the words "''The thoughts attached to the real desire of the seeker will lead us to him and him to us.''"<ref>Cited by Sédir in ''Histoire Les Rose-Croix.'' (Paris: 1972), 65-66</ref>
  
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There is no evidence for Chistopher McIntosh's speculation that [[Robert Fludd]] may have been a Mason, nor to support Waite's speculation that Fludd may have introduced a Rosicrucian influence into Freemasonry. However, Robert Vanloo states that earlier 17th century Rosicrucianism had a considerable influence on Anglo-Saxon Masonry. Hans Schick sees in the Rosicrucian works of [[Jan Amos Komenský|Comenius]] (1592-1670) the ideal of the newly born English Masonry before the foundation of the [[Grand Lodge]] in 1717. Comenius was in England during 1641.
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The legend inspired a variety of works, among them the works of Michael Maier (1568&ndash;1622) of Germany, Robert Fludd (1574&ndash;1637) and Elias Ashmole (1617&ndash;1692) of England, Teophilus Schweighardt Constantiens, Gotthardus Arthusius, Julius Sperber, Henricus Madathanus, Gabriel Naudé, Thomas Vaughan, and others.<ref>Sédir (1972), 59 to 68</ref> In Elias Ashmole's ''Theatrum Chimicum britannicum'' (1650), he defends the Rosicrucians. Some later works with an impact on Rosicrucianism were the ''Opus magocabalisticum et theosophicum'' by George von Welling (1719), of alchemical and paracelsian inspiration, and the ''Aureum Vellus oder Goldenes Vliess'' by Hermann Fictuld in 1749.
  
−
==== Gold und Rosenkreuzer ====
+
Michael Maier was ennobled with the title ''Pfalzgraf'' (Count Palatine) by [[Rudolph II]], Emperor and King of [[Hungary]] and King of [[Bohemia]]. He also was one of the most prominent defenders of the Rosicrucians, clearly transmitting details about the "Brothers of the Rose Cross" in his writings. Maier made the firm statement that the Brothers of R.C. exist to advance inspired arts and sciences, including [[Alchemy]]. Researchers of Maier's writings point out that he never claimed to have produced gold, nor did Heinrich Khunrath nor any of the other Rosicrucianists. Their writings point toward a symbolic and spiritual Alchemy, rather than an operative one. In both direct and veiled styles, these writings conveyed the nine stages of the involutive-evolutive transmutation of the ''threefold body'' of the human being, the ''threefold soul'' and the ''threefold spirit,'' among other esoteric knowledge related to the "Path of Initiation."
−
The Christian group “Gold und Rosenkreuzer” (Golden and Rosy Cross) was founded by the alchemist [[Samuel Richter]] (Sincerus Renatus) in [[Prague]] in the early 18th century, not as free brotherhood as envisaged by the original Rosicrucian Manifestos, but as a deeply hierarchical secret society, composed of internal circles, recognition signs and based upon alchemy treatises. This group, under the leadership of [[Hermann Fictuld]], reformed itself extensively in 1767 and again in 1777 because of an edict of the ruler in 1764 and another in 1766. Its members claimed that the leaders of the Rosicrucian Order had invented Freemasonry and only they knew the secret meaning of Masonic symbols. According to this group's legend, the Rosicrucian Order was founded by Egyptian “Ormusse” or “Licht-Weise” who emigrated to Scotland with the name “Builders from the East”. Then the original Order disappeared and was supposed to have been resurrected by [[Oliver Cromwell]] as “Freemasonry”. In 1785 and 1788 the Golden and Rosy Cross group published the ''Geheime Figuren'' or “The Secret Symbols of the 16th and 17th century Rosicrucians”.  
 
  
−
Led by Johann Christoph von Wöllner and General Johann Rudolf von Bischoffwerder, the Masonic lodge (later: ''Grand Lodge'') ''Zu den drei Weltkugeln'' was infiltrated and came under the influence of the Golden and Rosy Cross. Many Freemasons became Rosicrucianists and Rosicrucianism was established in many lodges. In 1782 at the Convent of Wilhelmsbad the ''Alte schottische Loge Friedrich zum goldenen Löwen'' in Berlin strongly requested [[Ferdinand, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg]] and all other Freemasons to submit to the Golden and Rosy Cross, without success.
+
In his 1618 pamphlet, ''Pia et Utilissima Admonitio de Fratribus Rosae Crucis,'' Henrichus Neuhusius writes that the Rosicrucians left for the East due to the instability in Europe at the time (the forthcoming [[Thirty Years' War]]), an idea afterwards disseminated in 1710 by [[Samuel Ritcher]], (Sincerus Renatus), an alchemist in Prague and founder of secret society the Golden and Rosy Cross. More recently René Guénon, a methodic researcher of the [[occult]], veiculated also this same idea in some of his works.<ref>René Guénon. ''Simboles de la Science Sacrée.'' (Paris: 1962), 95, etc.</ref> However, another eminent author on the Rosicrucians, Arthur Edward Waite, presents arguments that contradict this idea.<ref>Arthur E. Waite, (1887), ''The Real History of the Rosicrucians - Founded on their own Manifestos, and on facts and Documents collected from the writings of Initiated Brethren,'' (London: Adamant Media Corporation, 2005. ISBN 1402197691), 408</ref> It was in this fertile field of discourse that many "Rosicrucian" societies arose. They were based on the occult tradition and inspired by the mystery of this "College of Invisibles."
  
−
==Concepts==
+
Even the literary works of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries are full of enigmatic passages containing references to the Rose Cross, as in the lines (somewhat modernized):<br />
−
===Rose Cross: Alchemy and Divine Sciences of Healing & of the Stars===
+
''"For what we do presage is riot in grosse,<br />''
−
[[Image:Pparacel.jpg|right|thumb|[[Paracelsus]] (symbolical representation)]]
+
''for we are brethren of the Rosie Crosse;<br />''
 +
''We have the Mason Word and second sight,''<br />
 +
''Things for to come we can foretell aright."''<ref>Henry Adamson. ''The Muses Threnodie, or, Mirthfull Mournings, on the death of Master Gall. Containing varietie of pleasant poëticall descriptions … with the most remarkable antiquities of Scotland, especially at Perth.''  (Perth, 1638)</ref><br />
  
−
[[Alchemy]] (the ancestor of modern [[chemistry]]), is often thought to mean the science of creating gold from base metals. The true alchemists, or ''philosophers of the fire'', often disparagingly refer to people attempting such a feat as ''blowers'', meaning all those who were simply interested the creation of gold and the purely material aspects of alchemy.
+
The idea of such an order, exemplified by the network of astronomers, professors, mathematicians, and natural philosophers in sixteenth century Europe and promoted by men such as [[Johannes Kepler]], [[Georg Joachim Rheticus]], [[John Dee]] and [[Tycho Brahe]], gave rise to the [[Invisible College]], a precursor to the [[Royal Society]] formed during the seventeenth century. It was constituted by group of scientists who began to hold regular meetings in an attempt to share and develop knowledge acquired by [[scientific method|experimental investigation]]. Among these were [[Robert Boyle]], who wrote: "''the cornerstones of the Invisible (or as they term themselves the Philosophical) College, do now and then honour me with their company''".<ref>Cited by Robert Lomas. ''The Invisible College.'' (London: 2002)</ref>
  
−
In his laboratory, the alchemist works on the ''materia prima'' and uses, among other tools, a furnace called an [[athanor]]. In  ''Spiritual [[Alchemy]]'' [http://www.levity.com/alchemy/rosicros.html], the materia prima is the human [[soul]], and the athanor is the physical body and the [[Subtle body|subtle bodies]]. The latter maintain the life of the most dense one and assure the connection with the soul. The laboratory is human existence during which the soul can learn to perfect itself, achieving the transmutation of vices and defects (the vile metal) into virtues and qualities.
+
==Alleged influence on Freemasonry==
 +
[[Image:Bijou fm 18eme.jpg|thumb|170px|right|18° ''Knight of the Rose Croix'' jewel (from the Masonic Scottish Rite)]]
  
−
The first Rosicrucians practiced alchemy in the laboratory, which was in vogue at that epoch, of interest even to popes and kings. The ''[[Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz]]'' is a major written work which clearly makes reference to this work.  Current-day Rosicrucianists (like modern [[Freemasonry|Freemasons]], who do not construct [[cathedral]]s anymore) direct their concentration toward the work of spiritual alchemy.
+
According to Jean-Pierre Bayard, two Rosicrucian-inspired [[Freemasonry|Masonic]] rites emerged from the end of eighteenth century. One was the Rectified Scottish Rite, which was widespread in Central Europe where there was a strong presence of the "Golden and Rosy Cross." The other was the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, first practiced in [[France]], in which the 18th degree is called ''Knight of the Rose Croix.''
−
[[Image:The-Rosicrucian-Fellowship 3rdNatalChart 1911.jpg|thumb|250px|left|3rd Natal Chart of [[Rosicrucian Fellowship|The Rosicrucian Fellowship]] (1911), [[Oceanside, California|Oceanside]], [[United States]]]]
 
−
According to the early Manifestoes, the Rosicrucians were a "secret" Order.  Their members believed or could demonstrate healing powers that were seen as a gift from God: ''Spiritual [[Healing]]''. In the outer orders these powers were explained by Egyptian mysteries and again, differently in the [[hermetic]] Order. Members were admitted on this basis alone and the "membership" was very selective. The writers, philosophers and people of the time became curious and infuriated because they were excluded. Most of the writings of the time are biased or speculative for this reason. Many modern Rosicrucian organizations hold the belief that these God-given powers may be used to help others.
 
  
−
Some interpretations are described as being Rosicrucian.  They are used as an idea or icon by persons or groups either Gnostic Christian or [[syncretism|syncretists]] who use a great deal of Christian elements.  An example would be a cult that centers on the [[Mary, the mother of Jesus|Virgin Mary]] yet openly or secretly identifies her to the [[Virgo (constellation)|Virgo]] constellation of the [[Zodiac]].
+
Although many attempts have been made to learn about the change from "operative" to "speculative" Masonry, no definitive answer has yet been found, other than that it occurred between the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the eighteenth century. Two of the earliest speculative Masons for which a record of their initiation exists were [[Sir Robert Moray]] and [[Elias Ashmole]].  
  
−
[[Image:Regaleira.JPG|thumb|250px|right|'Well of Initiation' (9 strata): architecture based in Templar, Rosicrucian and Masonic symbolism at the "Quinta da Regaleira" (1892-1910), [[Sintra]], [[Portugal]]]]
+
There is speculation that Robert Fludd, who defended the Rosicrucians in his writings, may have been a Mason, and that Fludd may have introduced a Rosicrucian influence into Freemasonry. Robert Vanloo states that earlier seventeenth century Rosicrucianism had a considerable influence on Anglo-Saxon Masonry. Hans Schick sees in the Rosicrucian works of Comenius (1592-1670) the ideal of the newly born English Masonry before the foundation of the Grand Lodge in 1717. Comenius was in England during 1641.
−
A large majority of modern Rosicrucians believe in the study of ''Spiritual [[Astrology]]'' as a key to the ''Spirit'', to aid spiritual development and self-knowledge, as well as an aid to healing through ''Astro-Diagnosis''. [http://www.rosicrucian.com/asthtme1.htm]
 
−
 
 
−
A way through which the alchemical work on the "Path of Initiation" has been expressed to the world, according to [[occultists]] such as [[Corinne Heline]] (1882-1975), is through classical music. To wit, the [[List of works by Beethoven#Symphonies|nine symphonies]] of [[Ludwig van Beethoven|Beethoven]] (1770-1827) were divided into two groups. The [[Symphony No. 1 (Beethoven)|first]], the [[Symphony No. 3 (Beethoven)|third]], the [[Symphony No. 5 (Beethoven)|fifth]], and the [[Symphony No. 7 (Beethoven)|seventh]] are vigorous, powerful and of command, representing the ''intellect''.  The [[Symphony No. 2 (Beethoven)|second]], the [[Symphony No. 4 (Beethoven)|fourth]], the [[Symphony No. 6 (Beethoven)|sixth]] and the [[Symphony No. 8 (Beethoven)|eighth]] are elegant, ternurent, gracious and beautiful, representing the ''heart (intuition)''.  They culminate in the symphony with human voices, the [[Symphony No. 9 (Beethoven)|ninth symphony]], in which the equilibrium between ''mind'' and ''heart'' or the "Chymical Wedding" ritual, where the ''Christ Within'' – the Adept – is born ("consumatun est"). [[Johan Herde]] speaks of Beethoven as "''... God acts on earth through evolved men...''" and Beethoven speaks of himself as "''... I do not have friends, that is why I must live alone, but I know from the deepest of my heart, that God is closer to me than to others. I come close to Him without fear, because I have always known Him...''".
 
−
 
 
−
=== Rebirth versus transmigration ===
 
−
Some interpretations by practitioners of eastern religions state that the [[reincarnation]] process in [[mankind]] could happen in an interchangeable way with the animal, vegetable and even mineral kingdoms; this theory is called transmigration or [[metempsychosis]]. However, according to the Rosicrucians, as stated in the [[Western Wisdom Teachings]], the eastern sacred teachings do not support an inferred belief in [[Transmigration of the soul|transmigration]]; meaning, each life wave has an independent [[Spiritual evolution|evolution]] process and each one is at a different stage in the evolutionary path.  For example, according to the Rosicrucians, mineral life is the first and lowest level of spiritual evolution on earth.  Then comes plants, with actual life, then cold-blooded animals, then warm-blooded, and finally humans.  This is also told in ''[[The Rosicrucian Cosmo-Conception]]''. In practice, the beings belonging to each life wave either evolve through the work of the individual [[Spirit]] or are yet evolving under a group spirit [http://www.rosicrucian.com/images/rccen021.gif], have a different state of [[consciousness]] [http://www.rosicrucian.com/images/rccen004.gif], and have acquired more or less [[subtle bodies]] [http://www.rosicrucian.com/images/rccen003.gif], according to the development stage of each life wave.
 
−
 
 
−
The eastern sacred text [[Kathopanishad]] refers in Chapter 5, Verse 9, that some of the souls, according to their deeds, return to the womb to be reborn, but others go into "the motionless" ([[Sanskrit]] word "STHANU", meaning "pillar"); allegedly the same concept is claimed to be found in the [[Bible]] ([[Book of Revelation]]) that mentions: "Him that overcometh, I will make a ''pillar'' in the house of my God, thence he shall no more go out." However, orthodox Christian biblical theologians dispute that application and reject any connection between the symbology of the Bible and occult teachings in any form. Rosicrucians interpret both references with the meaning that when humanity has reached perfection, there will come a time when they will not be tied to the wheel of [[Reincarnation|births and deaths]], but will remain in the [[Plane (cosmology)|invisible worlds]] to work thence for the upliftment of other beings. This too is another concept taught by occultists, but one which orthodox Christian biblical theologians regard as explicitly representing the "spirit of antichrist" from the epistles of the apostle John (1 and 2 John); yet it is emphasized that men and women having a pure mind and a noble heart may regard this same teachings as coming from the "Spirit of truth" mentioned in John 16:12-15.
 
−
 
 
−
Last, if one takes into account the existence of earlier [[Root Race|epochs]] in the development of human beings - as described also by the [[Theosophy]] and interpreted also as being mentioned in a veiled form in sacred eastern and western religious writings and by earlier philosophers (e.g [[Plato]]) - then, only at the current [[Root Race#Aryan: the Fifth Root Race .28Epoch.29|Aryan Epoch]], the fifth one, it has started the event 'death' as we are conscious of it (not the death process of the physical-biological body itself, but the full awareness of the physical death event, with man having simultaneously lost the awaken awareness, or the inner contact, of the [[Plane (cosmology)|spiritual worlds]]). This conception, together with other related factors theorises that the entire [[Reincarnation|rebirth]] process (i.e. during the activity period between two physical lifes), which works through the individual accountability for his own deeds, is a recent process when seen from the perspective of the whole human evolutionary scheme till now (including the long involutionary period and the "recently" started [[spiritual evolution|evolutionary]] one).
 
−
 
 
−
====Interpretations====
 
−
 
 
−
*''"Never was there a time when I did not exist, nor you, nor all these kings; nor in the future shall any of us cease to be. As the embodied soul continuously passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death. A sober person is not bewildered by such a change".'' ([[Bhagavad Gita]], Chapter 2, texts 12-13)
 
−
 
 
−
The [[philosophy|philosophical]] interpretation of Sacred verses may vary widely since such texts are directed to the higher or inner [[consciousness]] of the individual along his path of [[spirituality|spiritual]] unfoldment. As such, quotations as this one may not even be a direct reference to transmigration, or to [[reincarnation|rebirth]], but a reference to the process of transference to a [[subtle body]] occurring at the event [[death]] - described not only in esoteric teachings, but also in [[near-death experiences]] - and the consequent change in one' state of perception  (not to be confounded with a literal change to a higher state of consciousness or awareness).
 
−
 
 
−
==The Manifestos==
 
−
[[Image:Prosphil.jpg|right|thumb|Frater C.R.C. - [[Christian Rosenkreuz|Christian Rose Cross]] (symbolical representation)]]
 
−
 
 
−
If one abstracts from the symbolic associations of the ''rose'' and the ''cross'', which have been visioned by many since ancient epochs, it is known that three treatises or manifestos which gave rise to this movement were published in the [[German language]] between 1614 and 1616:
 
−
 
 
−
*[[1614]]: ''[[Fama Fraternitatis]]''
 
−
*[[1615]]: ''[[Confessio Fraternitatis]]''
 
−
*[[1616]]: ''[[Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz]]''
 
−
 
 
−
Between [[1614]] and [[1620]], about 400 manuscripts and books were published which discussed the Rose-Croix documents.
 
−
 
 
−
The peak of the so-called "Rosicrucianism furor" was reached when two mysterious posters appeared in the walls of Paris in [[1622]] within few days from each other. The first one started with the saying "''We, the Deputies of the Higher College of the Rose-Croix, do make our stay, visibly and invisibly, in this city (...)''" and the second one ended with the words "''The thoughts attached to the real desire of the seeker will lead us to him and him to us''".
 
−
 
 
−
The following lines can be found in ''The Muses' Threnodie'' by H. Adamson (Perth, [[1638]]): "''For what we do presage is riot in grosse, for we are brethren of the Rosie Crosse; We have the [[Esoteric knowledge|Mason Word]] and [[Clairvoyance|second sight]], Things for to come we can foretell aright.''"
 
−
 
 
−
The Rosicrucians took the union of the [[rose]] and the [[cross]] for their [[symbol]] because this union embodies the meaning of their effort and emphasizes the fact that that effort must be made by all men, as the aim of humanity on earth is to attain ''divine wisdom''. Only two ways lead to this divine wisdom: [[knowledge]] and [[love]]. By the rose blooming in the middle of the cross, the whole meaning of the universe is explained: in order to realize its possibilities and become perfect, mankind must develop the capacity for love to the point of loving all creatures and all forms perceptible to the senses; it  must enlarge the capacity for knowledge and understanding to the point of comprehending the laws that govern the worlds, and of being able to proceed, through intuition and the loving intelligence of the heart, from every effect to every cause [http://www.alchemylab.com/christian_rosenkreutz.htm].
 
  
 
==Modern groups==
 
==Modern groups==
−
===Introduction===
+
During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, various groups styled themselves Rosicrucian; some of these groups claimed to be the authentic legendary Rosicrucian Order, and others spoke of an [[history|historical]] lineage to the Order or a [[spirituality|spiritual]] affiliation with the hermetic Order.
  
−
During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, various groups styled themselves Rosicrucian. Almost all claimed to be authentic heirs to a historical Rosicrucian tradition.
+
The diverse groups who link themselves to a "Rosicrucian Tradition" can be divided into three categories: Esoteric Christian Rosicrucian groups, which profess [[Christ]], Masonic Rosicrucian groups, and Initiatic groups, which may or may not be related to Christianity. There are a few connections between these including Martinism which studies Judeo-Christian [[mysticism]], and quite a few other organizations that practice Esoteric Christianity in reverence, study, and ritual as well as claim descent from Masonic origin or unity with a secret [[Freemasonry]].  
  
−
The diverse groups who link themselves to a "Rosicrucian Tradition"  can be divided into two categories: [[esoteric Christianity|Esoteric Christian]] groups, which profess [[Christ]], and para-[[Masonic]] groups. There has never been any connection between these two streams.
+
Another modern group, known as the Rosicrucian Fellowship (1909/1911), claimed to present the ''mysteries,'' in the form of esoteric knowledge, which the Christ spoke of in [[Gospel of Matthew|Matthew]] 13:11 and [[Gospel of Luke|Luke]] 8:10; it seeks to prepare the individual through harmonious development of the mind (occultist) and the heart ([[mysticism|mystic]]) in a spirit of unselfish service to mankind and an all-embracing [[altruism]]. According to this Fellowship, the Rosicrucian Order was founded in the year 1313<ref>[http://www.rosicrucian.com/zineen/pamen010.htm The Rosicrucian Interpretation of Christianity] by The Rosicrucian Fellowship. Retrieved June 25, 2008.</ref> and is composed by 12 exalted Beings gathered around a thirteenth, Christian Rosenkreuz; these great Adepts are presented as belonging to the human evolution but have already advanced far beyond the cycle of [[reincarnation|rebirth]]; their mission is explained as aiming to prepare the ''whole wide world'' for a new phase in [[religion]]&mdash;which includes awareness of the inner worlds and the subtle bodies, and to provide safe guidance in the gradual awakening of man's latent [[spirituality|spiritual]] faculties during the next six centuries toward the coming Age of Aquarius.<ref>Max Heindel. The Rosicrucian Mysteries: An Elementary Exposition of their Secret Teachings.'' (lulu.com, 2005. ISBN:1887560386) [http://books.google.com/books?id=L9EI85S73HcC&dq=Max+Heindel,+The+Rosicrucian+Mysteries&pg=PP1&ots=EmEfqPkArG&sig=EADzB12P8DBcxutNbA1_Gem_dtY&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=1&ct=result].''googlebooks.com''. Retrieved June 25, 2008.</ref>
  
−
===Esoteric Christian tradition===
+
==Notes==
−
The [[Rosicrucian Fellowship]]'s teachings are [[Christian]] and claim to present the ''mysteries'' ([[esoteric knowledge]]) which the [[Christ#Esoteric Christian tradition|Christ]] spoke of in [[Gospel of Matthew|Matthew]] 13:11 and [[Gospel of Luke|Luke]] 8:10; it seeks to prepare the individual through harmonious development of the mind ([[occultist]]) and the heart ([[mystic]]) in a spirit of unselfish service to mankind and an all-embracing [[altruism]]. According to this Fellowship, the Rosicrucian Order was founded in the year 1313 <ref>[http://www.rosicrucian.com/zineen/pamen010.htm The Rosicrucian Interpretation of Christianity]</ref> and is composed by twelve exalted Beings gathered around a thirteenth, [[Christian Rosenkreuz]]; these great Adepts are presented as belonging to the human evolution but have already advanced far beyond the cycle of [[reincarnation|rebirth]]; their mission is explained as aiming to prepare the ''whole wide world'' for a new phase in [[religion]]&mdash;which includes awareness of the [[plane (cosmology)|inner worlds]] and the [[subtle bodies]], and to provide safe guidance in the gradual awakening of man's latent [[spirituality|spiritual]] faculties during the next six centuries toward the coming [[Age of Aquarius]]  <ref>''[http://www.rosicrucian.com/rms/rmseng01.htm The Rosicrucian Mysteries] by [[Max Heindel]]. Accessed [[29 March]] [[2006]]</ref>.<br/>
+
<references/>
−
According to major occult writers, the Order of the [[Rose Cross]] is for the first time expounded in the major Christian literary work that has molded the subsequent spiritual views of the western civilization: ''[[The Divine Comedy]]'' (1308&ndash;1321) by [[Dante Alighieri]] <ref>[[Albert Pike]], ''[[Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry]], XXX: Knight Kadosh'', p. 822, 1872 [http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/morals_and_dogma/table_of_contents.htm]</ref> <ref>[[René Guénon]], ''El Esoterismo de Dante'', p. 5-6, 14, 15-16, 18-23, 1925 [http://www.thule-italia.net/Sitospagnolo/Guenon/Guenon,%20Rene%20-%20El%20esoterismo%20de%20Dante.pdf]</ref> <ref>[[Manly Palmer Hall]], ''The Secret Teachings of All Ages: The Fraternity of The Rose Cross'', p. 139, 1928 [http://www.phoenixmasonry.org/secret_teachings_of_all_ages/table_of_contents.htm]</ref>.
 
−
*[[Rosicrucian Fellowship|The Rosicrucian Fellowship]], 1909/11
 
−
::[http://fraktali.849pm.com/gallery/rosencrucian_gallery/index.htm The Mystic Gallery "Rosicrucians"] (Art gallery) & [http://www.zyworld.com/jamus/RC-CW.htm Rosicrucianism and Religion] (Article)
 
−
*[[Anthroposophical Society]], 1912
 
−
*[[Lectorium Rosicrucianum]], 1934
 
−
 
 
−
===Para-Masonic groups===
 
−
The para-[[Masonic]] groups may be defined as being late heirs of the [[alchemy]] and [[hermetic]] knowledge created in the 15th or 17th century and generally speak of a lineal descent from earlier branches of the ancient Rosicrucian Order in England, France, Egypt, or other countries. The inner structure of these groups is based upon Masonic lines, such as grades, initiations and titles.
 
−
*[[Fraternitas Rosae Crucis]], 1861
 
−
*[[Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia]], 1866
 
−
*[[Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis]], 1880
 
−
*[[Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn]], 1888
 
−
*[[Order of the Temple of the Rosy Cross]], 1912
 
−
*[[Ancient Mystical Order Rosae Crucis]], 1915
 
−
*[[Rosicrucian Order Crotona Fellowship]], 1924
 
−
*[[Rose Cross Order / Orden Rosacruz]], 1988
 
−
*[[Confraternity of the Rose Cross]], 1996
 
−
*[[Sodalitas Rosae Crucis (S.R.C.) et Solis Alati (S.S.A.)]], 2002/3
 
−
*[[Mystical Order of the Temple of the Rosy Cross]], 1912
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
−
<references/>
+
*Adamson, Henry. ''The Muses Threnodie, or, Mirthfull Mournings, on the death of Master Gall. Containing varietie of pleasant poëticall descriptions … with the most remarkable antiquities of Scotland, especially at Perth.'' Perth, 1638.
−
 
+
*Bayard, Jean-Pierre. ''Les Rose-Croix.'' Paris: M. A. Éditions, 1986. (in French)
−
==Reference literature==
+
*Dantinne, Emile, (Sar Hieronymus). [http://www.hermetics.org/rose-croix.html]. ''On the Islamic Origin of the Rose-Croix,'' Translated from the French by Elias Ibrahim, Retrieved July 16, 2008. Originally published in the review ''Inconnus'' 1951. (in English)
−
====Old editions====
+
*Gandra, J. Manuel. ''Portugal Misterioso (Os Templários).'' Lisbon: 1998.  
−
*Among the treasures of the [[Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica]] in Amsterdam are books on the Gnossis and the Corpus Hermeticum as published in Florence in 1471.
+
*Goodrick-Clarke, Nicholas. ''The Occult Roots of Nazism.'' [1993] Palgrave/Macmillan UK/Tauris Parke Paperbacks, 2003. ISBN 1860649734
−
*The [[University of Wisconsin]] Digital Collections Center has a [http://digicoll.library.wisc.edu/cgi-bin/HistSciTech/HistSciTech-idx?id=HistSciTech.GeheimeFiguren digital edition] of the ''Geheime Figuren der Rosenkreuzer, aus dem 16ten und 17ten Jahrhundert (1785-1788)''.
+
*Gorceix, Bernard. ''La Bible des Rose-Croix.'' [1970] Paris: Presses Universitaires de France, 1998. ISBN 2130476341 (in French)
−
====Publications====
+
*Heindel, Max. ''The Rosicrucian Mysteries: An Elementary Exposition of their Secret Teachings.'' lulu.com, 2005. ISBN: 1887560386
−
*António de Macedo, ''Instruções Iniciáticas - Ensaios Espirituais'', Hughin Editores, 2nd ed., Lisbon, 2000 [http://paginasesotericas.tripod.com/instrucoesiniciaticas.htm].
+
*Jennings, Hargrave. ''The Rosicrucians: Their Rites and Mysteries.'' (original 1870. reprint ed. Forgotten Books, 2008. ISBN 978-1605065151 online [http://books.google.com/books/p/pub-4297897631756504?id=2Uui4zz4c8EC&pg=PP3&dq=%27%].Retrieved July 16, 2008.27The+Rosicrucians:+Their+Rites+and+Mysteries&sig=ACfU3U37c2GuaBg6nDobQj0125rGIIA0XQ
−
*[[Arthur Edward Waite]], ''The Real History of the Rosicrucians'', 1887, [http://www.sacred-texts.com/sro/rhr/index.htm].
+
*Lindgren, Carl Edwin & Neophyte. ''Spiritual Alchemists.'' Ars Latomorum, 1996. ISBN 1885591187
−
*Bernard Gorceix, ''La Bible des Rose-Croix'', Paris, 1970.
+
*Lomas, Robert. ''The Invisible College: The Royal Society, Freemasonry and the Birth of Modern Science.'' London: Headline Book Publishing, New Ed., 2003. ISBN 0747239770.
−
*Carl Edwin Lindgren & Neophyte, ''Spiritual Alchemists'', Ars Latomorum Publ.; 1st ed January 1, 1996. ISBN 1-885591-18-7. [http://www.amazon.com/dp/1885591187].
+
*Magre, Maurice. (translator), ''Magicians, Seers, and Mystics.'' Dutton, 1932.
−
*Carl Edwin Lindgren, ''The Rose Cross Order: A Historical and Philosophical View'' [http://users.panola.com/lindgren/rosecross.html]
+
*Marconis de Negre, E.J. "Brief History of Masonry," Excerpted from ''The Sanctuary of Memphis.'' Paris: 1849.
−
*Christian Rebisse, ''Rosicrucian History and Mysteries'', 2003, [http://www.rosicrucian.org/store/xcart/product.php?productid=16393&cat=0&page=].
+
*Marconis de Negri, E.J. ''The Sanctuary of Memphis or Hermes.'' Kessinger Publishing; Facsimile edition, 1997. (in English) ISBN 1564593118
−
*Christopher McIntosh, ''The Rose Cross and the Age of Reason'', Brill Academic Pub, 1997.
+
*Matthews, John. ''The Rosicrucian Enlightenment Revisited.'' Gat Barrington, MA:Lindisfarne Books, 1999. ISBN 0940262843
−
*[[Frances Yates]], ''The Rosicrucian Enlightenment'', ISBN 0-415-26769-2, London; New York: Routledge, 1972.
+
*McIntosh, Christopher. ''The Rose Cross and the Age of Reason.'' Brill Academic Publishers, 1997. ISBN 978-9004095021
−
*Frietsch, Wolfram, ''Die Geheimnisse der Rosenkreuzer'', ISBN 3-499-60495-7
+
*Merrifield, Mary P. ''The Art of Fresco Painting in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.'' Dover Publications, 2004. ISBN 978-0486432939
−
*[[Hargrave Jennings]], ''The Rosicrucians: Their Rites and Mysteries'', 1870
+
*Palou, Jean. ''A Franco-Maçonaria Simbólica e Iniciática.'' Sao Paulo: Editora Pensamento, 1998. ISBN 978-8531502682 (in Portuguese)
−
*[[Herbert Silberer]], ''Probleme der mystik und ihrer symbolik'' ('Problems of Mysticism and its Symbolism'), 1914
+
*Sedir. ''Histoire des Rose-Croix.''
−
*Jean Palou, ''A Franco-Maçonaria Simbólica e Iniciática'', Pensamento, 9th ed., 1998.
+
*Silberer, Herbert. ''Probleme der mystik und ihrer symbolik.'' ('Problems of Mysticism and its Symbolism'), (original 1914), reprint ed. Darmst, 1961.  
−
*Jean-Pierre Bayard, ''Les Rose-Croix'', M. A. Éditions, Paris, 1986.
+
*Silberer, Herbert, and Smith Ely Jelliffe, (Translator), ''Problems of Mysticism and its Symbolism.'' Kessinger ed. ISBN 0548111065 (in English)
−
*[[Manly Palmer Hall]], ''Rosicrucian and Masonic Origins'', 1929  [http://the_mystic_light.tripod.com/rosicrucian_and_masonic.htm].
+
*Waite, Arthur E. ''The Real History of the Rosicrucians - Founded on their own Manifestos, and on facts and Documents collected from the writings of Initiated Brethren,'' (original 1887) (London: Adamant Media Corporation, 2005. ISBN 1402197691
−
*Manly Palmer Hall, ''The Secret Teachings of All Ages'', 1928 [http://www.sacred-texts.com/eso/sta/index.htm].
+
*Yates, Frances A. ''The Rosicrucian Enlightenment,'' second ed. London; New York: Routledge, (original 1972, 2001. ISBN 0415267692
−
*Mary P. Merrifield, ''The Art of Fresco Painting in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance''. Dover Publications, 2004.
 
−
*[[Max Heindel]], ''Christian Rosenkreuz and the Order of Rosicrucians'', 1909, [http://www.rosicrucian.com/rcc/rcceng19.htm].
 
−
*Roland Edighoffer, ''Rose-Croix et Société Idéale selon Johann Valentin Andreae'', Paris I-1982, II-1987.
 
−
*[[Rudolf Steiner]], ''Esoteric Christianity and the Mission of Christian Rosenkreutz'', 1912 [http://wn.rsarchive.org/Lectures/EsoChristian/19121218p02.html].
 
−
*Rudolf Steiner, ''Rosicrucianism and Modern Initiation-Mystery Centres of the Middle Ages'', 1924, [http://wn.rsarchive.org/Lectures/RosiModInit/RosIni_index.html].
 
−
*[[William Wynn Westcott]], ''Rosicrucian Thoughts on the Ever-Burning Lamps of the Ancients'', 1903, [http://www.levity.com/alchemy/westcott.html].
 
−
====Essays====
 
−
*Alexandre David, ''Fama Fraternitatis - Introduction'', [http://rosicrucianlight.tripod.com/rc_famafraternitatis.htm].
 
−
*[[Corinne Heline]], ''The Seven Jewels and the Seven Stages of Initiation '',  [http://themysticlight.tripod.com/nbtr.htm]
 
−
====Fictional literature====
 
−
*[[Edward Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton|Edward Bulwer-Lytton]], ''[[Zanoni|Zanoni: A Rosicrucian Tale]]'' (1842), [http://www.edward-bulwer-lytton.org/zanoni/].
 
−
*Edward Bulwer-Lytton, ''[[Vril|Vril: The Power of the Coming Race]]'' (1870) [http://sacred-texts.com/atl/vril/index.htm]
 
−
*[[Franz Hartmann]], ''With the Adepts: An Adventure Among the Rosicrucians'' (1910), [http://www.sacred-texts.com/sro/wta/index.htm]
 
−
*[[Hermann Hesse]], ''[[Journey to the East]]'' (1932, also "Journey to the Land of the Morning/of the Tomorrow" (''Die Morgenlandfahrt''))
 
−
*Hermann Hesse, ''[[The Glass Bead Game]]'' (1943), also known as "Magister Ludi" (Master of the Game).
 
−
*Prentiss Tucker, ''In the Land of the Living Dead: an Occult Story'' (1929), [http://members.shaw.ca/jamis/LivingDead.htm].
 
−
 
 
−
====Conspiracy literature====
 
−
*Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh and [[Henry Lincoln]], ''[[Holy Blood, Holy Grail]]'' (1982), advanced a [[pseudohistorical]] relation of Rosicrucianism with a secret society called [[Priory of Sion]].
 
−
*[[Umberto Eco]], ''[[Foucault's Pendulum (book)|Foucault's Pendulum]]'' (1988), ''Serendipities: Language and Lunacy'' (1998).
 
−
*[[Dan Brown]], ''[[The Da Vinci Code]]'' (2003), follows the ''[[Holy Blood, Holy Grail]]'''s conspiracy theories line.
 
−
 
 
−
====Lyrics====
 
−
*[[Leonard Cohen]]'s song "Dress Rehearsal Rag" (''Songs of Love and Hate'', 1971) features the lyrics:
 
−
:"Why don't you join the Rosicrucians,<br/>
 
−
:they can give you back your hope,<br/>
 
−
:you can find your love with diagrams<br/>
 
−
:on a plain brown envelope."
 
−
* [[Marillion]]'s "Hope For The Future" (''This Strange Engine'', 1997) starts with the following lines:
 
−
:"I've been feeling kind of down and loose</br>
 
−
:Like a Rosicrucian pope."
 
−
* [[John Cale]]'s "Vigilante Lover" (''Artificial Intelligence'', 1985) contains the lyrics:
 
−
:"But I wouldn't feel so forlorn<br/>
 
−
:There must be some saving grace<br/>
 
−
:I hear the Rosy Christians have just hit town<br/>
 
−
:And they're all heading for your place"
 
−
 
 
−
==See also==
 
−
     
 
−
*[[Alchemy]] - [[Astrology]]         
 
−
*[[Christianity]] - [[Christian mysticism]] - [[Esoteric Christianity]] 
 
−
*[[Esoteric cosmology]] - [[Plane (cosmology)|Planes of existence]] 
 
−
*[[Esotericism]] - [[Mysticism]] - [[Occult]] 
 
−
*[[Gnosticism]] - [[Catharism]] - [[Freemasonry]] - [[Kabbalah]] - [[Manicheans]] - [[Sufism]] - [[Knights Templar]] - [[Rosy Cross]]
 
−
*[[Georgia Guidestones]] 
 
−
*[[Western mystery tradition]] 
 
−
 
 
−
===Rosicrucian Documents===
 
−
*[[The Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz]]
 
−
*[[Fama Fraternitatis]]
 
−
*[[Confessio Fraternitatis]]
 
−
*[[Parabola Allegory]]
 
−
*[[The Rosicrucian Cosmo-Conception]]
 
−
*[[Positio Fraternitatis Rosae Crucis]]
 
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
−
====Organizations====
+
All links retrieved December 16, 2022.
−
*[http://www.levity.com/alchemy/rosi_grp.html A detailed listing of Rosicrucian groups]
+
* [http://www.sacred-texts.com/sro/rhr/index.htm Arthur Edward Waite, ''The Real History of the Rosicrucians'', 1887.]
−
 
+
*[http://the_mystic_light.tripod.com/rosicrucian_and_masonic.htm Manly Palmer Hall, ''Rosicrucian and Masonic Origins'', 1929]
−
====The Temple====
+
*[http://www.sacred-texts.com/eso/sta/index.htm Manly Palmer Hall, ''The Secret Teachings of All Ages'', 1928]
−
*[http://rosaecruz.no.sapo.pt/MEcclesia/ Mount Ecclesia: the 'Third/Millennial' Temple]
+
*[http://www.rosicrucian.com/rcc/rcceng19.htm Max Heindel, ''Christian Rosenkreuz and the Order of Rosicrucians'', 1909]
−
 
+
*[http://wn.rsarchive.org/Lectures/EsoChristian/19121218p02.html Rudolf Steiner, ''Esoteric Christianity and the Mission of Christian Rosenkreutz'', 1912]
−
====Other resources====
 
−
*[http://www.accessibleportugal.com/en/Magazine_ficheiros/July/templar.html Accessible magazine (July 2006): The Portugal Code: the Knights Templar, the Rosicrucian Order and the Holy Grail]
 
 
*[http://www.levity.com/alchemy/rosicros.html Alchemy Web Site (The): Rosicrucianism]
 
*[http://www.levity.com/alchemy/rosicros.html Alchemy Web Site (The): Rosicrucianism]
 
*[http://www.crcsite.org/library.htm A Rosicrucian Library: Rosicrucian Manifestos]
 
*[http://www.crcsite.org/library.htm A Rosicrucian Library: Rosicrucian Manifestos]
−
*[[Catholic Encyclopedia]]: [http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13193b.htm Rosicrucians]
+
 
−
*[http://www.americanreligion.org/cultwtch/rosicruc.html Cultwatch: Rosicrucians]
 
−
*[http://www.godulike.co.uk/faiths.php?chapter=85&subject=intro God-u-Like: Rosicrucianism]
 
−
*[http://www.reversespins.com/rosicrucian.html Reverse Spins: The Mysterious Rosicrucian...]
 
−
*[http://grailstar.4t.com/rosie.htm Rosie: Speculum Sophicum Rhodo-Stauroticum]
 
−
*[[The Straight Dope|Straight Dope (The)]]: [http://www.straightdope.com/mailbag/mrosicrucian.html What is Rosicrucianism all about?]
 
  
 
[[Category:Philosophy and religion]]
 
[[Category:Philosophy and religion]]
 
[[Category:Religion]]
 
[[Category:Religion]]
  
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{{credit|218498441}}

Latest revision as of 19:19, 16 December 2022

The Temple of the Rose Cross, Teophilus Schweighardt Constantiens, 1618.

Rosicrucianism (meaning "Rose Cross") refers to a family of secret societies formed in late medieval Germany, which taught esoteric practices that were concealed from the average person.[1] The meetings of these societies were held in private and thus Rosicrucians became known as the "College of Invisibles."

Rosicrucianism was based on an amalgamation of Christian mysticism with the occult tradition. Between 1607 and 1616, two anonymous Rosicrucian manifestos were published, first in Germany and later throughout Europe. These were known as the Fama Fraternitatis R.C. (The Fame of the Brotherhood of R.C) and Confessio Fraternitatis (The Confession of the Brotherhood of R.C.). The influence of these documents, presenting a "most laudable Order" of mystic-philosopher-doctors and promoting a "Universal Reformation of Mankind," gave rise to an enthusiasm called by its historian Dame Frances Yates the "Rosicrucian Enlightenment".[2]

Several modern societies, which date the origins of the Order to earlier centuries, have been formed for the study of Rosicrucianism and allied subjects. However, many researchers on the history of Rosicrucianism argue that modern Rosicrucianists are in no sense directly linked to any real society of the early seventeenth century. Members of modern organized Initiatic groups, which call themselves "Rosicrucian," thus date the beginning of the Order to much more ancient times than proposed by historians.

History

Frater C.R.C. - Christian Rosenkreuz (symbolic representation).

According to a medieval legend,[3] the Rosicrucian Order was created in the year 46 C.E. when an Alexandrian Gnostic sage named Ormus and his six followers were converted by Jesus' disciple Mark. Their symbol was said to be a red cross surmounted by a rose, thus the designation of Rosy Cross. From this conversion, Rosicrucianism was supposedly born, by purifying Egyptian mysteries with the new higher teachings of early Christianity.[4] However, most historians claim that the Order of the Rose Cross was founded in the early fourteenth century by a group of individuals who adopted the symbolic name of Christian Rosenkreuz. It was said that Christian Rosenkreuz had discovered and learned the Secret Wisdom on a pilgrimage to the East in the fifteenth century.

According to Maurice Magre (1877–1941) in his book Magicians, Seers, and Mystics, Rosenkreutz was the last descendant of the Germelshausen, a German family from the thirteenth century. Their castle stood in the Thuringian Forest on the border of Hesse, and they embraced Albigensian doctrines, combining pagan and Christian beliefs. The whole family was put to death by Landgrave Conrad of Thuringia, except for the youngest son, then five years old. He was carried away secretly by a monk, an Albigensian adept from Languedoc and placed in a monastery under the influence of the Albigenses, where he was educated and met the four Brothers later to be associated with him in the founding of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood. Magre's account supposedly derives from oral tradition.

According to the Fama Fraternitatis, Rosicrucuanism crystalized in the teachings of the German doctor and mystic philosopher Christian Rosenkreuz ("Roses-cross"). Having studied in the Middle East under various masters, he had failed to interest the powerful people of his time in the knowledge he had acquired, so instead had gathered a small circle of friends/disciples founded the Order of RC (this can be similarly deduced to have occurred in 1407).

Around 1530, more than 80 years before the publication of the first manifesto, the association of cross and rose already existed in Portugal in the Convent of the Order of Christ, home of the Knights Templar, later renamed Order of Christ. Three bocetes were, and still are, on the abóboda (vault) of the initiation room. The rose can clearly be seen at the center of the cross.[5][6] At the same time, a minor writing by Paracelsus called Prognosticatio Eximii Doctoris Paracelsi (1530), containing 32 prophecies with allegorical pictures surrounded by enigmatic texts, makes reference to an image of a double cross over an open rose; this is one of the examples used to prove the "Fraternity of the Rose Cross" existed far earlier than 1614.[7]

Pre-Nazi Germany

The Gold und Rosenkreuzer (Golden and Rosy Cross) was founded by the alchemist Samuel Richter (Sincerus Renatus)[8] in Prague in the early eighteenth century, not as free brotherhood as envisaged by the original Rosicrucian Manifestos, but as a deeply hierarchical secret society, composed of internal circles, recognition signs and based upon alchemy treatises. This group, under the leadership of Hermann Fictuld, reformed itself extensively in 1767 and again in 1777 because of an edict of the ruler in 1764 and another in 1766. Its members claimed that the leaders of the Rosicrucian Order had invented Freemasonry and only they knew the secret meaning of Masonic symbols. According to this group's legend, the Rosicrucian Order was founded by Egyptian “Ormusse” or “Licht-Weise” who emigrated to Scotland with the name “Builders from the East.” Then the original Order disappeared and was supposed to have been resurrected by Oliver Cromwell as “Freemasonry.” In 1785 and 1788 the Golden and Rosy Cross group published the Geheime Figuren or “The Secret Symbols of the 16th and 17th century Rosicrucians.”

Led by Johann Christoph von Wöllner and General Johann Rudolf von Bischoffwerder, the Masonic lodge (later: Grand Lodge) Zu den drei Weltkugeln was infiltrated and came under the influence of the Golden and Rosy Cross. Many Freemasons became Rosicrucianists and Rosicrucianism was established in many lodges. In 1782 at the Convent of Wilhelmsbad the Alte schottische Loge Friedrich zum goldenen Löwen in Berlin strongly requested Ferdinand, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg and all other Freemasons to submit to the Golden and Rosy Cross, without success.

After 1782, this highly secretive society - a secret society that had previously disseminated through its founder that the original Rosicrucians had left to the East (see section above on history) and a very different society than that of the Rosicrucian Brotherhood of the original Manifestos which had presented ideals of spirituality and aims of freedom and reformation for mankind - added Egyptian, Greek and Druidic mysteries to its alchemy system.[9] A comparative study of what is known about the Gold and Rosenkreuzer, appears to reveal, on one hand, that it has influenced the creation of some modern Initiatic groups that were founded with an akin system; and, on the other hand, that the Nazism destructive ideology, supported in occult knowledge [10] and in a system of highly hierarchical and secretive organizations, may have been inspired by this German group (Gold und Rosenkreuzer) of the eighteenth century, and derived ramifications.

During Rosenkreuz's lifetime, the Order was said to consist of no more than eight members, each a doctor and a sworn bachelor who undertook to heal the sick without payment, to maintain a secret fellowship and to find a replacement for himself before he died. Three such generations had supposedly passed between c. 1500 and c. 1600 and scientific, philosophical and religious freedom had now grown so that the public might benefit from their knowledge.[11]

It is evident that the first Rosicrucian manifesto was influenced by the work of the respected hermetic philosopher Heinrich Khunrath, of Hamburg, author of the Amphitheatrum Sapientiae Aeternae (1609), who was in turn influenced by John Dee, author of the Monas Hieroglyphica (1564). The invitation to the royal wedding in the Chymical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz opens with Dee's philosophical key, the Monas Heiroglyphica symbol. The writer also claimed the brotherhood possessed a book that resembled the works of Paracelsus.

Martin Luther's seal.

Some say the writers were moral and religious reformers and utilized the techniques of chemistry (alchemy) and the sciences generally as media through which to publicize their opinions and beliefs. The authors of the Rosicrucian works generally favored the Reformation and distanced themselves from the Roman church and Islam. The symbol of Martin Luther is a cross inside an open rose.

The manifestos were not taken literally by many but were often considered either as a hoax or as allegorical statements. The manifestos directly state: "We speak unto you by parables, but would willingly bring you to the right, simple, easy, and ingenuous exposition, understanding, declaration, and knowledge of all secrets." Others believe Rosenkreuz to be a pseudonym for a more famous historical figure, usually Francis Bacon.

The publication of the Fama Fraternitatis Rosae Crucis (1614)

The manifestos caused immense excitement throughout Europe: they declared the existence of a secret brotherhood of alchemists and sages who were preparing to transform the arts, sciences, religion, and political and intellectual landscape of Europe while wars of politics and religion ravaged the continent. The works were re-issued several times and followed by numerous pamphlets, favourable and otherwise. Between 1614 and 1620, about 400 manuscripts and books were published which discussed the Rosicrucian documents.

In Paris

The peak of the so-called "Rosicrucianism furor" was reached when two mysterious posters appeared in the walls of Paris in 1622 within a few days of each other. The first one started with the saying "We, the Deputies of the Higher College of the Rose-Croix, do make our stay, visibly and invisibly, in this city (…)" and the second one ended with the words "The thoughts attached to the real desire of the seeker will lead us to him and him to us."[12]

The legend inspired a variety of works, among them the works of Michael Maier (1568–1622) of Germany, Robert Fludd (1574–1637) and Elias Ashmole (1617–1692) of England, Teophilus Schweighardt Constantiens, Gotthardus Arthusius, Julius Sperber, Henricus Madathanus, Gabriel Naudé, Thomas Vaughan, and others.[13] In Elias Ashmole's Theatrum Chimicum britannicum (1650), he defends the Rosicrucians. Some later works with an impact on Rosicrucianism were the Opus magocabalisticum et theosophicum by George von Welling (1719), of alchemical and paracelsian inspiration, and the Aureum Vellus oder Goldenes Vliess by Hermann Fictuld in 1749.

Michael Maier was ennobled with the title Pfalzgraf (Count Palatine) by Rudolph II, Emperor and King of Hungary and King of Bohemia. He also was one of the most prominent defenders of the Rosicrucians, clearly transmitting details about the "Brothers of the Rose Cross" in his writings. Maier made the firm statement that the Brothers of R.C. exist to advance inspired arts and sciences, including Alchemy. Researchers of Maier's writings point out that he never claimed to have produced gold, nor did Heinrich Khunrath nor any of the other Rosicrucianists. Their writings point toward a symbolic and spiritual Alchemy, rather than an operative one. In both direct and veiled styles, these writings conveyed the nine stages of the involutive-evolutive transmutation of the threefold body of the human being, the threefold soul and the threefold spirit, among other esoteric knowledge related to the "Path of Initiation."

In his 1618 pamphlet, Pia et Utilissima Admonitio de Fratribus Rosae Crucis, Henrichus Neuhusius writes that the Rosicrucians left for the East due to the instability in Europe at the time (the forthcoming Thirty Years' War), an idea afterwards disseminated in 1710 by Samuel Ritcher, (Sincerus Renatus), an alchemist in Prague and founder of secret society the Golden and Rosy Cross. More recently René Guénon, a methodic researcher of the occult, veiculated also this same idea in some of his works.[14] However, another eminent author on the Rosicrucians, Arthur Edward Waite, presents arguments that contradict this idea.[15] It was in this fertile field of discourse that many "Rosicrucian" societies arose. They were based on the occult tradition and inspired by the mystery of this "College of Invisibles."

Even the literary works of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries are full of enigmatic passages containing references to the Rose Cross, as in the lines (somewhat modernized):
"For what we do presage is riot in grosse,
 for we are brethren of the Rosie Crosse;
 We have the Mason Word and second sight,
Things for to come we can foretell aright."[16]

The idea of such an order, exemplified by the network of astronomers, professors, mathematicians, and natural philosophers in sixteenth century Europe and promoted by men such as Johannes Kepler, Georg Joachim Rheticus, John Dee and Tycho Brahe, gave rise to the Invisible College, a precursor to the Royal Society formed during the seventeenth century. It was constituted by group of scientists who began to hold regular meetings in an attempt to share and develop knowledge acquired by experimental investigation. Among these were Robert Boyle, who wrote: "the cornerstones of the Invisible (or as they term themselves the Philosophical) College, do now and then honour me with their company".[17]

Alleged influence on Freemasonry

18° Knight of the Rose Croix jewel (from the Masonic Scottish Rite)

According to Jean-Pierre Bayard, two Rosicrucian-inspired Masonic rites emerged from the end of eighteenth century. One was the Rectified Scottish Rite, which was widespread in Central Europe where there was a strong presence of the "Golden and Rosy Cross." The other was the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, first practiced in France, in which the 18th degree is called Knight of the Rose Croix.

Although many attempts have been made to learn about the change from "operative" to "speculative" Masonry, no definitive answer has yet been found, other than that it occurred between the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the eighteenth century. Two of the earliest speculative Masons for which a record of their initiation exists were Sir Robert Moray and Elias Ashmole.

There is speculation that Robert Fludd, who defended the Rosicrucians in his writings, may have been a Mason, and that Fludd may have introduced a Rosicrucian influence into Freemasonry. Robert Vanloo states that earlier seventeenth century Rosicrucianism had a considerable influence on Anglo-Saxon Masonry. Hans Schick sees in the Rosicrucian works of Comenius (1592-1670) the ideal of the newly born English Masonry before the foundation of the Grand Lodge in 1717. Comenius was in England during 1641.

Modern groups

During the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, various groups styled themselves Rosicrucian; some of these groups claimed to be the authentic legendary Rosicrucian Order, and others spoke of an historical lineage to the Order or a spiritual affiliation with the hermetic Order.

The diverse groups who link themselves to a "Rosicrucian Tradition" can be divided into three categories: Esoteric Christian Rosicrucian groups, which profess Christ, Masonic Rosicrucian groups, and Initiatic groups, which may or may not be related to Christianity. There are a few connections between these including Martinism which studies Judeo-Christian mysticism, and quite a few other organizations that practice Esoteric Christianity in reverence, study, and ritual as well as claim descent from Masonic origin or unity with a secret Freemasonry.

Another modern group, known as the Rosicrucian Fellowship (1909/1911), claimed to present the mysteries, in the form of esoteric knowledge, which the Christ spoke of in Matthew 13:11 and Luke 8:10; it seeks to prepare the individual through harmonious development of the mind (occultist) and the heart (mystic) in a spirit of unselfish service to mankind and an all-embracing altruism. According to this Fellowship, the Rosicrucian Order was founded in the year 1313[18] and is composed by 12 exalted Beings gathered around a thirteenth, Christian Rosenkreuz; these great Adepts are presented as belonging to the human evolution but have already advanced far beyond the cycle of rebirth; their mission is explained as aiming to prepare the whole wide world for a new phase in religion—which includes awareness of the inner worlds and the subtle bodies, and to provide safe guidance in the gradual awakening of man's latent spiritual faculties during the next six centuries toward the coming Age of Aquarius.[19]

Notes

  1. ↑ Carl Edwin Lindgren, online The way of the Rose Cross; A Historical Perception, 1614-1620. panola.org. Retrieved July 16, 2008.Journal of Religion and Psychical Research 18 (3) (1995): 141-148.
  2. ↑ Frances Yates, The Rosicrucian Enlightnment, London, 1972.
  3. ↑ E. J. Marconis de Negre, "Brief History of Masonry," Excerpted from The Sanctuary of Memphis. (Paris: 1849).
  4. ↑ Further research in Legend and Mythology: Ormus, book-of-thoth.com. Retrieved June 25, 2008.
  5. ↑ Macedo, António de (2000), Instruções Iniciáticas - Ensaios Espirituais, 2nd edition, (Lisbon: Hughin Editores, ISBN 9728534000), 55
  6. ↑ J. Manuel Gandra, (1998), Portugal Misterioso (Os Templários). (Lisbon), 348-349
  7. ↑ Stanislas de Guaita, (1886), Au seuil du Mystère- Essais de Sciences Maudites. (Paris: Georges Carre, ÉDITEUR).
  8. ↑ In 1710, Sigmund (or Samuel) Richter published a work at Breslau with the title Die warhhaffte und vollkommene Bereitung des Philosophischen Steins der Brüderschaft aus dem Orden des Gülden-und Rosen-Creutzes under the pseudonym Sincerus Renatus. (Nicholas Goodrick-Clarke. The Occult Roots of Nazism. (London: Palgrave/Macmillan UK/Tauris Parke Paperbacks, 2003), 59
  9. ↑ Jean-Pierre Bayard, Les Rose-Croix. (Paris: M.A. Édition, 1986)
  10. ↑ (see The Occult Roots of Nazism)
  11. ↑ Bernard Gorceix. La Bible des Rose-Croix. (Paris: 1970), a work of reference, containing excellent translations of the three Rosicrucian Manifestos, recommended in Accès de l'Ésoterisme Occidental (1986, 1996) by Antoine Faivre (École Pratique des Hautes Études, Sorbonne)
  12. ↑ Cited by Sédir in Histoire Les Rose-Croix. (Paris: 1972), 65-66
  13. ↑ Sédir (1972), 59 to 68
  14. ↑ René Guénon. Simboles de la Science Sacrée. (Paris: 1962), 95, etc.
  15. ↑ Arthur E. Waite, (1887), The Real History of the Rosicrucians - Founded on their own Manifestos, and on facts and Documents collected from the writings of Initiated Brethren, (London: Adamant Media Corporation, 2005. ISBN 1402197691), 408
  16. ↑ Henry Adamson. The Muses Threnodie, or, Mirthfull Mournings, on the death of Master Gall. Containing varietie of pleasant poëticall descriptions … with the most remarkable antiquities of Scotland, especially at Perth. (Perth, 1638)
  17. ↑ Cited by Robert Lomas. The Invisible College. (London: 2002)
  18. ↑ The Rosicrucian Interpretation of Christianity by The Rosicrucian Fellowship. Retrieved June 25, 2008.
  19. ↑ Max Heindel. The Rosicrucian Mysteries: An Elementary Exposition of their Secret Teachings. (lulu.com, 2005. ISBN:1887560386) [1].googlebooks.com. Retrieved June 25, 2008.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Adamson, Henry. The Muses Threnodie, or, Mirthfull Mournings, on the death of Master Gall. Containing varietie of pleasant poëticall descriptions … with the most remarkable antiquities of Scotland, especially at Perth. Perth, 1638.
  • Bayard, Jean-Pierre. Les Rose-Croix. Paris: M. A. Éditions, 1986. (in French)
  • Dantinne, Emile, (Sar Hieronymus). [2]. On the Islamic Origin of the Rose-Croix, Translated from the French by Elias Ibrahim, Retrieved July 16, 2008. Originally published in the review Inconnus 1951. (in English)
  • Gandra, J. Manuel. Portugal Misterioso (Os Templários). Lisbon: 1998.
  • Goodrick-Clarke, Nicholas. The Occult Roots of Nazism. [1993] Palgrave/Macmillan UK/Tauris Parke Paperbacks, 2003. ISBN 1860649734
  • Gorceix, Bernard. La Bible des Rose-Croix. [1970] Paris: Presses Universitaires de France, 1998. ISBN 2130476341 (in French)
  • Heindel, Max. The Rosicrucian Mysteries: An Elementary Exposition of their Secret Teachings. lulu.com, 2005. ISBN: 1887560386
  • Jennings, Hargrave. The Rosicrucians: Their Rites and Mysteries. (original 1870. reprint ed. Forgotten Books, 2008. ISBN 978-1605065151 online [3].Retrieved July 16, 2008.27The+Rosicrucians:+Their+Rites+and+Mysteries&sig=ACfU3U37c2GuaBg6nDobQj0125rGIIA0XQ
  • Lindgren, Carl Edwin & Neophyte. Spiritual Alchemists. Ars Latomorum, 1996. ISBN 1885591187
  • Lomas, Robert. The Invisible College: The Royal Society, Freemasonry and the Birth of Modern Science. London: Headline Book Publishing, New Ed., 2003. ISBN 0747239770.
  • Magre, Maurice. (translator), Magicians, Seers, and Mystics. Dutton, 1932.
  • Marconis de Negre, E.J. "Brief History of Masonry," Excerpted from The Sanctuary of Memphis. Paris: 1849.
  • Marconis de Negri, E.J. The Sanctuary of Memphis or Hermes. Kessinger Publishing; Facsimile edition, 1997. (in English) ISBN 1564593118
  • Matthews, John. The Rosicrucian Enlightenment Revisited. Gat Barrington, MA:Lindisfarne Books, 1999. ISBN 0940262843
  • McIntosh, Christopher. The Rose Cross and the Age of Reason. Brill Academic Publishers, 1997. ISBN 978-9004095021
  • Merrifield, Mary P. The Art of Fresco Painting in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Dover Publications, 2004. ISBN 978-0486432939
  • Palou, Jean. A Franco-Maçonaria Simbólica e Iniciática. Sao Paulo: Editora Pensamento, 1998. ISBN 978-8531502682 (in Portuguese)
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  • Silberer, Herbert. Probleme der mystik und ihrer symbolik. ('Problems of Mysticism and its Symbolism'), (original 1914), reprint ed. Darmst, 1961.
  • Silberer, Herbert, and Smith Ely Jelliffe, (Translator), Problems of Mysticism and its Symbolism. Kessinger ed. ISBN 0548111065 (in English)
  • Waite, Arthur E. The Real History of the Rosicrucians - Founded on their own Manifestos, and on facts and Documents collected from the writings of Initiated Brethren, (original 1887) (London: Adamant Media Corporation, 2005. ISBN 1402197691
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External links

All links retrieved December 16, 2022.

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