The process of initiation is one of regeneration. It means developing your inmost essence, first to birth and then to full growth. This involves a rejection and mystical death of all the lower principles that obstruct your growth. This path is traced through our three degrees: The first stage involves refining your gross sense-nature, killing your desire for material attractions and developing indifference to the allure of the outer world. The second involves disciplining and clarifying your mind till it becomes pure and strong enough to respond to a spiritual order of life and wisdom. This is why in our Second Degree the discovery of a sacred symbol in the center of the building shows a first glimpse of your personal center. This knowledge is followed by a desire to wipe from your heart all obstacles to complete union with the Center. The third stage, the last and greatest trial, involves the voluntary death of your sense of ego and separation from the universal life-essence. As your limited ego dies, you become conscious of a Bright Morning Star within you, illuminating your mental horizon.
The Secret Science of Masonic Initiation by Robert Lomas
