Ancient and Mystical Order of Rosae Crucis
The Rosicrucian Order, AMORC, is internationally recognized under its traditional and authentic name, the Ancient and Mystical Order of Rosae Crucis, from which the abbreviation AMORC originates.<br>
The Ancient and Mystical Order of Rosae Crucis is the Latin name of the organization, which literally translates as the Ancient and Mystical Order of the Rose and Cross. This symbol carries no religious connotation:
- The Cross represents the human body.
- The Rose symbolizes the unfolding consciousness of the individual.<br>
Together, the Rose and Cross represent the experiences and trials of a thoughtful, well-lived life. Through its name and symbol, our Order upholds the true traditions of Rosicrucian movements, from past centuries to the present day.<br>
History of the Rosicrucian Order
The history of AMORC can be divided into two main categories:<br>
🔹 Traditional – includes mystical allegories and legends passed down orally for centuries.<br>
🔹 Chronological – based on specific dates and verifiable historical facts.<br>
Our Roots in the Ancient World
The Rosicrucian movement traces its origins to Ancient Egypt (circa 1500 BCE).<br>
In antiquity, the word “mystery” referred to a special gnosis, or sacred wisdom. During this time, mystery schools were formed, admitting only sincere students who passed special initiations.<br>
🔹 The first esoteric school was established by Pharaoh Thutmose III (1500–1447 BCE).<br>
🔹 Pharaoh Akhenaten (Amenhotep IV) was initiated into mystical teachings and became the first monotheist in history, establishing the cult of Aten – the solar disk.<br>
Over time, this ancient knowledge was passed down to Greek and Roman philosophers, including:
✅ Pythagoras<br>
✅ Thales<br>
✅ Plotinus<br>
They brought esoteric traditions to Europe, laying the foundation for the Rosicrucian movement.<br>
Early European Beginnings
During the Middle Ages, mystical knowledge was transmitted through:<br>
🔹 Alchemists<br>
🔹 Troubadours<br>
🔹 Kabbalistic texts<br>
🔹 Knightly Orders<br>
Among the renowned alchemists associated with the Rosicrucians were:
✅ Albertus Magnus<br>
✅ Roger Bacon<br>
✅ Paracelsus<br>
✅ Nicolas Flamel<br>
At that time, alchemy was not just about creating gold—it was about the transformation of the human soul.<br>
⚠ During the Middle Ages, the Order had to operate in secrecy, as mystical knowledge was often persecuted.<br>
The Rosicrucians and the Renaissance
🔹 In the 17th century, the publication of Fama Fraternitatis in Germany reignited interest in Rosicrucianism.<br>
🔹 Francis Bacon (1561–1626) led the Order in England and Europe.<br>
🔹 Many Rosicrucians played a key role in the development of science, philosophy, and culture.<br>
Among the famous figures linked to the Order were:
✅ Leonardo da Vinci<br>
✅ René Descartes<br>
✅ Isaac Newton<br>
✅ Blaise Pascal<br>
✅ Baruch Spinoza<br>
Crossing the Atlantic
In 1694, a Rosicrucian group led by Johann Kelpius crossed the Atlantic and founded a mystical colony in Pennsylvania.<br>
Later, several prominent Americans were associated with the Rosicrucian movement:
✅ Benjamin Franklin<br>
✅ Thomas Jefferson<br>
✅ Thomas Paine<br>
In 1915, the AMORC Order was officially registered in New York under the leadership of H. Spencer Lewis.
In 1927, the headquarters was relocated to San Jose, California.<br>
Modern AMORC
Over the past 90 years, hundreds of thousands of people have joined the AMORC Order.<br>
💠 The Order welcomes both men and women, regardless of race or religion.<br>
💠 Rosicrucians continue their mission of preserving and spreading ancient wisdom and spiritual knowledge.<br>