The Last Ritual

FROM THE BOOK OF THE LAW Every man and woman is a star. Every number is infinite : there is no difference. This is the creation of the world, that the pain of division is as nothing, and the joy of dissolution all. Obey my prophet ! follow out the ordeals of my knowledge ! seek me only ! Then the joys of my love will redeem ye from all pain. This is so : I swear by the vault of my body : by my sacred tongue and heart ; by all I can give, by all I desire of ye all. The word of the Law is Thelema. Who calls us Thelemites will do no wrong, if he look but close into the word. For there are therein Three Grades, the Hermit and the Lover, and the man of Earth. Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law. The word of Sin is restriction. Thou hast no right but do thy will. Do that and no other shall say nay. For pure will, unassuaged of purpose, delivered from the lust of result, is every way perfect. There are four gates to one palace : the floor of that palace is of silver and gold ; lapis lazuli and jasper are there ; and all rare scents ; jasmine and rose, and the emblems of death. Let him enter in turn or at once the four gates ; let him stand on the floor of the palace. Will he not sink ? Ho ! warrior, if thy servant sink ? But there are means and means. Be goodly therefore. This also is secret : my prophet shall reveal it to the wise. I give unimaginable joys on earth : certainty, not faith, while in life, upon death ; peace unutterable, rest, ecstasy ; nor do I demand ought in sacrifice. My incense is of resinous woods and gums ; and there is no blood therein : because of my hair the trees of Eternity. My colour is black to the blind, but the blue and gold are