WHAT DOES B.O.T.A. MEAN?

Builders of the Adytum (B.O.T.A.) is a non-profit, tax-exempt religious organization irrevocably dedicated to spiritual attunement through enlightened worship in the Tradition of the Western Mysteries. Its congregation is an association of spiritual aspirants who participate through the B.O.T.A. lesson instructions. Wherever they may be geographically, they are, in fact, participating in mystical-esoteric meditational practices that unify them into a powerful metaphysical body of enlightened worship. There is no charge for any instructions or other benefits B.O.T.A. freely offers its dues paying members. The Order’s material needs are supported solely by membership dues-contributions and other donations.

Builders of the Adytum derives from antiquity. Adytum is Greek for “Inner Shrine” or “Holy of Holies” and Builders refers to the emulation of the Carpenter from Nazareth, Jesus, whom many people believe was versed in the Qabalistic Tradition. However, B.O.T.A. is not a strictly Christian organization, nor is it Jewish, as the Qabalah is thought to be. B.O.T.A. accepts the Qabalah as the mystical root of both ancient Judaism and the original Christianity, but people of all faiths should have no difficulty accepting B.O.T.A. teachings if they are mystically inclined.

The evolution of form upon this planet corresponds with the evolution of consciousness. Consequently, in the natural course of events, all men and women will ultimately be possessed of higher consciousness. Almost incomprehensible periods of time elapse, however, before such changes occur in the slow processes of nature. Yet speed-ups are possible. Humankind is endowed with mental and physical faculties which, with proper training, enable an acceleration of the evolutionary process. This cultural forcing process is the work of the Mystery Schools, ancient and modern.

The means whereby higher consciousness, illumination, may be gained includes both theory and practice. These teachings and practical secrets constitute what is known as Ageless Wisdom. It is called “Ageless” because it is not susceptible to the mutations of time. Ageless Wisdom is not primarily a product of man’s thinking. It is “written by God upon the face of nature,” and is always there for men and women of all epochs to read, if they can.

Builders of the Adytum is an authentic Mystery School. Its system is that of the Western Tradition. Its teachings, which are based on the Holy Qabalah and the Sacred Tarot, have been handed down from one group of initiates to another since very ancient times. Its work, however, does not bid for interest on the ground of mere antiquity, but because it has met the tests of centuries of practical application.

WHAT IS THE TEMPLE OF HOMEOSTASIS?

Please refer to the page entitled "Our Purpose" and "Becoming a Member".

WHY SHOULD I CARE ABOUT ANY OF THIS STUFF?

At this point we would have to ask you why you are even reading this FAQ...

WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?

Freemasonry (or simply, Masonry) is a fraternal order whose basic tenets are brotherly love, relief (philanthropy), and truth. We strive to enjoy the company of our brother Masons, assist them in times of personal trouble, and reinforce essential moral values. There is an old adage
that Masonry "takes good men and makes them better", which is our goal.

WHAT IS SCOTTISH RITE FREEMASONRY?

The Scottish Rite is an appendant body of Masonry, meaning that it is not part of the Blue Lodge per se, but closely associated with Masonry. It requires that a man be a Master Mason before joining the Scottish Rite. The Scottish Rite confers the 4th through 32nd degrees. The
degree work may be, but is not necessarily, completed at one time. Any Master Mason is eligible to join the Scottish Rite.

HOW DO I BECOME A FREEMASON?

* Be a man, [Note: there are other branches of Masonry that accept both men and women, or women only].
* In Oklahoma, you must be at least 19 years old; in many other jurisdictions the minimum age is 21.
* Have belief in a Supreme Being (of any faith. No particular religion or faith is required or excluded. All are welcome.).
To join, all you have to do is ask a Mason:
* Preferably someone you know or at least who lives or works nearby, or...
* If you think that don't know any Masons in your area, you could post to the netnews group alt.freemasonry and ask that anyone who lives in your general area reply to you, or...
* You can probably find nearby lodges listed in your phonebook. (White-pages listings for lodges may be under "Masons", "Freemasons", "Masonic Apartments", or "Masonic Temple", and the Grand Lodge would probably be under "Grand Lodge of Masons"), or...
* Find your state's Grand Lodge in this list of U.S.A. Grand Lodges. Call them and ask to speak to someone in the office of the Grand Secretary.