A membership organization, since 1923 e.v. a Thelemic religious Order (Church). We were founded just at the beginning of the 20th century. O.T.O. is similar to Freemasonry in many respects, but does not make or raise Masons. We have initiations and Lodges. Here is an outline of the principal levels of membership:

Apart from Associate membership, O.T.O. has twelve principal degrees and a number of transitional or intermediate degrees. These degrees are intended to activate a particular sequence of Chakras in the Kundalini system (See Crowley's Liber Reguli for a single-ritual example of a similar course). Aside from that, here are some details about the Degrees.

Minerval is the entrance initiatory level, and is a time of getting used to each other. Minerval is a trial or probationary level. It is metaphorically described as "attraction of a soul to incarnation."

Ist degree is the beginning of life-long membership, and symbolizes birth and a dedication to Thelema. At this point, initiates can apply to open a "Camp" for holding meetings of initiates.

IInd degree is "comming of age". The initiate can serve as a tiler of the temple.

IIIrd degree permits the initiate with proper aptitudes to apply for powers of initiation from Minerval through IIIrd, and to apply to lead an Oasis.

IVth degree is a more elaborate ritual, and draws the initiate toward the middle range of O.T.O.

Prince of Jerusalem and Knight of the East and West are two intermediate degrees after this one.

Vth degree is the minimum for running a lodge, and the Vth degree can apply for Senate and may volunteer for Electoral College---which body governs the Camps, Oases and Lodges of the Order.

VIth degree prepares the initiate for the inner work of the O.T.O.

VIIth degree starts the inner work and members of this rank can act as inspectors.

VIIIth degree continues sex magick training, empowers the member to vote in general O.T.O. elections and allows application for some higher initiatory powers.

IXth degree completes the normal sex magick training and grants the member opportunity to represent the head of the order directly.

Xth degree is the head of the O.T.O. for a particular country.

XIth degree is outside the regular structure of the Order, and is presently not open to applicants.