The Enchanted Initiate
A Journal of Traditional Symbolism, Hermeticism & the Occult Sciences

Mithraic Order

An organization centered around the worship of Mithras, with its own rituals, initiations, and hierarchy

Concordance & Cross-References

Primary Correspondences & Figures

St. Peters ChairLineage

Beliefs about early Christian mysteries and their relation to Roman pagan cults

Holy WaterSubstance

Similarly used in both Mithraic and Christian rituals, indicating shared symbols

CaveGeography

Cave as a key location for secret initiation, shared across various mystagogues

Lion→Lineage

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

Bell And CandleSubstance

Use of these items in Mithraic rituals, shared with other mystery cults

Mediate Correspondences

Sympathetic Chains & Distant Affinities

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesPhilosophy →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Philosophy

The lion represents power, strength, and the establishment of the Kingdom of God, which is an ultimate goal of the Fraternity's philosophy.

Mithraic OrderthroughSt. Peters ChairilluminatesResurrection →
I. Mithraic Order & St. Peters Chair

Beliefs about early Christian mysteries and their relation to Roman pagan cults

II. St. Peters Chair & Resurrection

Concepts of resurrection are shared, pointing to deep theological connections

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesWorld →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & World

The lion, as an apocalyptic beast, accompanies the World card and is integral to its symbolism of the complete circle of life.

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesSword →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Sword

In the illustration referenced as Illustration 116, the sword is depicted as being wielded by a lion, establishing a dynamic and significant relationship between the two entities. This visual representation suggests a hierarchical structure where the lion is the dominant entity exerting power, while the sword, by virtue of its presence and the lion's mastery over it, symbolizes the lion's might and authority. The lion's control over the sword indicates a relationship of empowerment or service, where the lion may be seen both as the enforcer of power and the one being served or protected. This portrayal encapsulates the power dynamics and mutual dependencies of the relationship, highlighting the lion's dominant and empowering role over the sword.

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesC. R. C. →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & C. R. C.

C., the founder of the Fraternity of R.C., is guided by the lion, a symbol of power and strength, in his endeavors. This symbol represents the ultimate goals that C. Strives to achieve, and he does so with divine wisdom as his primary guiding principle. The lion, thus, serves as both a metaphor for C. C.'s aspirations and his approach to realizing these objectives, emphasizing the blend of strength and wisdom C. Employs in his leadership and vision for the Fraternity. C., the founder of the Fraternity of R.C., is guided by the lion, symbolizing power and strength, as he works toward his ultimate goals with divine wisdom as a guiding principle.

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesLamb →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Lamb

Symbolically, both represent different temperaments unified in the Philosopher's Stone

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesWoman →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Woman

The woman covers the lion's mouth, representing a powerful union where love conquers wrath

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesLord Bacon →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Lord Bacon

Lord Bacon, a potential identity for Johann Valentin Andreæ, is associated with the establishment of the Kingdom of God through his contributions to the Fraternity. Lord Bacon, possibly adopting the guise of Johann Valentin Andreæ, played a significant role in the endeavor. The lion, symbolizing power and strength, is linked to this goal, mirroring the attributes potentially attributed to Lord Bacon in his pursuit of establishing the Kingdom of God. His efforts and the symbolism of the lion suggest a strong, powerful figure driving the creation of a utopian community or government.

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesCreatures →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Creatures

One of the four creatures symbolizing the four corners of creation.

Mithraic OrderthroughLionilluminatesApis Bull →
I. Mithraic Order & Lion

The use of lions as symbols for initiates, shared across different mysteries

II. Lion & Apis Bull

Lions, as solar symbols, are closely associated with the Apis Bull, which also has specific solar associations.