Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.

O.T.O.

Peace, Tolerance, Truth:
Salutation on All Points of the Triangle;
Respect to the Order

Founded around 1902, the Ordo Templi Orientis (O.T.O.), also known as the Order of the Oriental Templars or the Order of the Temple of the East, was initially envisioned by its founders—Karl Kellner, Franz Hartmann, and Theodor Reuss—as a Masonic Academy. Their goal was to merge the wisdom of all Masonic degrees into one cohesive system. However, this vision did not fully materialize.

 

Evolution of the O.T.O.

 

The Ordo Templi Orientis did not integrate into mainstream Freemasonry. The O.T.O. adopted the principle of equal rights for both men and women, integrating women into its ranks. Moreover, it regards belief in God (or gods) as a personal matter, welcoming members who are monotheists, polytheists, or atheists.

 

Separation from Freemasonry

 

In 1920, the O.T.O.’s connection with Freemasonry was severed when the “World Federation of Universal Freemasonry” Congress in Zurich rejected Reuss’s proposal to establish Thelema as the fundamental law of Freemasonry. After Reuss’s death in 1923, Aleister Crowley adjusted the O.T.O.’s initiation rites to avoid interfering with the legal privileges and powers of modern Masons. Consequently, membership in the O.T.O. today does not confer any Masonic degrees.

 

Modern Ordo Templi Orientis

 

The O.T.O. is now an independent order that includes individuals from various religious and esoteric backgrounds, such as Christians, Buddhists, Wiccans, and Freemasons. The Ordo Templi Orientis continues to embrace diverse spiritual paths and is committed to the exploration of esoteric traditions.

 

Learn More About O.T.O.

 

For more information about the Ordo Templi Orientis, including its history and current practices, explore our website and connect with our community.