ABSTRACT

https://s3-euw1-ap-pe-df-pch-content-public-p.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/9781315828060/49546f0e-ce84-4e70-9b40-7107f16ee305/content/unfiga_2_B.tif" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"/>ROM the foregoing we have learnt that the Vanguard symbolises in some measure the Second Person of the Trinity; Viraji, the Word, of the Hindu, and the Salvator aspect of the Godhead. If this be so we may naturally expect to find the other two aspects of the triune nature of God represented among the chief officers, the more so when we remember the marked stress laid on the triangle in the Hung Society. Indeed, there can be little doubt that the Master represents the Creative, or Father, side of the Godhead. It is he who creates the Lodge by his Consecration, and he who plays the most important part of all the Officers. He is the judge and the challenger who questions the candidate and later the Vanguard, namely, when he enquires concerning the journey. It will be noticed, however, that it is not he, but the Vanguard, who offers the great Prayer which starts on page 61 of volume I, and while the Master administers the Thirty-six Oaths and the Oath of Blood Brotherhood, when he and the two candidates are cleansing their mouths the Instructor, or White Fan, who until then has been passive, suddenly takes over the ceremony, (a) and thereafter has entire charge of the candidate until practically the end, when the Master again assumes control as he presents the certificate. It is therefore important to see what the Instructor does. It is he who actually pricks the finger of the candidate; it is he who administers the cup of wine and blood; he also explains the ten most important possessions of the Hung Society, such as the Precious Sword, the Scales and the Mirror. Finally, it is he who gives the candidate the word, which is “Poon,” signifying Self, and the general pass sign or five finger sign of the Order. These facts show that he represents a third aspect of the Triad, and one which more closely approximates to the Western conception of the Holy Ghost than to the Hinduconception of the Destroyer. This side is emphasised by his emblem, fan and also his title, namely, White Fan. White is the colour of spirit and the in all Rites, in East and West alike, symbolises the element, air, breath and hence Spirit. This, combined with the fact that he gives the Pass word, “Self,” suggests the Holy Spirit, or Divine Spark within every man, which is clearly linked with the Holy Ghost. Having made these points clear, let us turn to the Mystical Journey which the candidate is supposed to take.