About Us

Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO) is an initiatory organisation that promulgates the Thelema and the teachings of English author and occultist, Aleister Crowley.

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The concept of Thelema is espoused in a series of Holy Books written by Crowley while in a state of higher consciousness.

 

Thelema is a Greek word that means “Will.”  A commonly used phrase from our Holy Books is: 

 

“Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.”

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This refers to the importance of discovering one's unique path in life, in order to find true wisdom and perfect happiness.

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Thelema is at once a philosophy, a social model, a magical system, and a religion.  It is not exclusive to the OTO; its influence can be found in the disruptions we see around the world in religious, philosophical and social thought.

 

As Thelema promotes individual freedom, the OTO is necessarily protective of the individual rights and freedoms of all people irrespective of race, gender, sexuality, social status, etc.

 

Those drawn to our Order are those spiritual seekers who value individuality and personal enquiry, along with a high level of discernment, courage and love.

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OTO membership is based on an initiatory system modelled after European Freemasonry.  Our central rite is the Gnostic Mass.

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The OTO was first incorporated in New Zealand in 1986, and it has local bodies throughout the country.  See our contact page and be sure to get in touch.

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