Should I or shouldn't I?

[lew finnis]

I have for many many years avoided SRIA on the basis that I am more into the historical side of Freemasonry rather than the esoteric. However, I do wonder whether it might give my brain a bit of overdue exercise? I can do a Secretary's job in my sleep (no rude comments, please!) but I don't think I've exercised my intellect very much since I finished teaching 12 years ago. Constructive comments, please?

[aprado]

Esotericism is the science of the soul, By its theory and practice, we come to know ourselves and creation.
The SRIA helps you on this path by providing in each grade, an introduction to a subject (Numbers, Alchemy etc) for your further investigation.
One subject you will encounter much is the Qabalah, so it may well benefit you to have a little google on the subject and see if it lies within your own compass.
My own personal point of view, The order has improved my life immeasurably with its beauty and among its members, i have found gentlemen whose wisdom has improved my relationship with god and my self incredibly.

Good Luck Lew.

[Peter Taylor]

I think you have already found much of Craft Masonry is already very "esoteric". I'm sure you would enjoy the SRIA Bro. It does require study and commitment and as has already been said, a study of the Kabbalah is essential, so have a look around and see if it awakens any interest in you!

[JulesTheBit]

Just to add to some of the excellent input already posted, SRIA is a more spiritual, philosophical order than most, but it's also very flexible. The papers presented at convocations cover a wealth of subjects and you are free to choose your own path of interest which can take you in many directions.
Some of the Orders you already belong to have quite a deep spiritual, even religious aspect and SRIA goes even further in that direction.
It's not to everyone's taste, evidenced by its relatively small membership, but if you're looking for something that makes you think then it's excellent.
Jules
Metcol and LCA, VII

[Saracen1970]

I would heartily recommend the SRIS/SRIA Lew

There is so much to recommend it and very little (if any) against it.

[wayne cowley]

I have found that some of the lectures of the First Order grades have certainly made me think deeper. In addition, when there are well researched papers presented (as there was in a College I visited a few weeks ago when a paper on numbers was presented by a fairly new member - linking it to Kabbalah) then there is a great scope for looking at a whole range of areas.

Wayne

[eckywan2]

Go for it Lew !
Ive been very much a devotee of the Historical story of our craft continually fighting to discuss the truth
but SRIS gave me an extra edge to my interests and as Wayne says it make you think deeper about it all,
I like Aprado's comment meeting others and improving relationships !
I'm just a humble old plod who is cheeky enough to demand truth and SRIS has made me think about subjects Id not dared to before.
I'm just researching what should be my first paper with intentions of visiting other colleges to offer it
So watch out Peter here I come !

Yours aye
Ecky
Met coll ,,,,,, the original one that is !

[eckywan2]

Happy New year all
Care fratres
anyone coming to Edinburgh for Metropolitan College ( 8/1/18) tonight?

[eric384]

Unfortunately I'm working in York today.

[eckywan2]

Apologies Eric I should have posted /advertised meeeting earlier
watch out for the Vikings !