Grade Structure
The OCA is divided into three principle initiatory degrees. In each of these degrees, the initiate undergoes a spiritual alchemy based on the elements, planets, and signs of the Zodiac. Initiation into each force gives the magician greater mastery over that particular force and an increased ability to wield it magically. The first degree, Novus (Novice) pertains to the Black Work of alchemy and contains grade material of a primarily theoretical nature:
Novus - Initiation into the Black Work.
Novus Terrae - The element of Earth, foundational material
Novus Aeris - The element of Air, Kabbalah, astral projection
Novus Ignis - The element of Fire, alchemy, astrology
Novus Aquis - The element of Water, Tarot, divination
The second degree, Adeptus (Adept) pertains to the White Work of alchemy and contains a wide variety of topics in advanced ceremonial magic. During this degree, the Adept learns the fundamentals of teaching, and completes their masterwork before advancing to Magister. It contains seven grades pertaining to the seven ancient planets.
The third degree, Magister (Master) pertains to the Red Work of alchemy and consists of research and teaching in addition to certain advanced grade material. It contains twelve alchemical grades relating to the twelve signs of the Zodiac.
Once one has completed the sequence of all the elements, planets, and signs of the Zodiac, one will have worked through all twenty-two forces of the universe symbolized by the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet and the twenty-two Major Arcana of the Tarot symbolizing the Path of the Serpent of Wisdom, the Path of Return.
The OCA is divided into three principle initiatory degrees. In each of these degrees, the initiate undergoes a spiritual alchemy based on the elements, planets, and signs of the Zodiac. Initiation into each force gives the magician greater mastery over that particular force and an increased ability to wield it magically. The first degree, Novus (Novice) pertains to the Black Work of alchemy and contains grade material of a primarily theoretical nature:
Novus - Initiation into the Black Work.
Novus Terrae - The element of Earth, foundational material
Novus Aeris - The element of Air, Kabbalah, astral projection
Novus Ignis - The element of Fire, alchemy, astrology
Novus Aquis - The element of Water, Tarot, divination
The second degree, Adeptus (Adept) pertains to the White Work of alchemy and contains a wide variety of topics in advanced ceremonial magic. During this degree, the Adept learns the fundamentals of teaching, and completes their masterwork before advancing to Magister. It contains seven grades pertaining to the seven ancient planets.
The third degree, Magister (Master) pertains to the Red Work of alchemy and consists of research and teaching in addition to certain advanced grade material. It contains twelve alchemical grades relating to the twelve signs of the Zodiac.
Once one has completed the sequence of all the elements, planets, and signs of the Zodiac, one will have worked through all twenty-two forces of the universe symbolized by the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet and the twenty-two Major Arcana of the Tarot symbolizing the Path of the Serpent of Wisdom, the Path of Return.