BNF FM 4 15 Baylot MS - ƒlus Co‘ns Extracts

This is probably the earliest known document on the Rite of Perfection grades, and the BnF says that this manuscript probably comes from the entourage of its founder, ƒtienne Morin. The image of the encampment of the Princes of the Royal Secret probably dates from the very beginning of the practice of the degree, around 1764. This manuscript is one of the first manifestations of the haute-grades in the New World, and predates the Franken Manuscript, an essential document of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR) by at least 20 years.

As Martinezists, our primary interest in the Baylot MS. is in the final pages which consist of ƒlus Co‘n material. Included is:

¥ An introductory speech on the ƒlus Co‘ns titled Au nom du Grand Architecte de lÕUnivers,
¥ Apprentice Catechism, appended by an overview of the Classes of the E.C. described through the 5 colored Bands or Sashes of Election,
¥ Companion Catechism, appended by Fumigations (instructions on required magical tools including an incense formula, holy water, a Pantacle of goat skin, and magical names for the Circle Ð these instructions are appended to the Companion Catechism in the MS.),
¥ Addresses & Names of the Principal Officers for Addressing them in Letters or Packets for the Tribunal,
¥ An example of a Magical Circle,
¥ (Probably) the earliest drawing of the Camp of the Princes of the Royal Secret of the Ancient and Accepted Rite.

The ƒlus Co‘ns extracts here have been translated by S‰r CÏur de a Croix of the Ordre Martinistes Souverains (OMS) for the benefit of the English speaking Martinist community as part of the O.M.S. ƒlus Co‘ns Source Series.

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