
The Role of the Adept Chamber
The Adept Chamber of the Moorish Science Temple of America serves as the inner sanctum where dedicated members, known as Adepts, undergo rigorous spiritual training and enlightenment. Within this sacred space, we delve deeply into the exoteric, esoteric, and neoteric teachings of Prophet Noble Drew Ali, refining our understanding and embodiment of the Noocratic Rules of Chivalry. This transformative journey equips us to lead by example, guiding our communities toward spiritual awakening and moral excellence.
Embracing the New Ethiopian Order
Under the auspices of the New Ethiopian Order, we, as Moorish Templist Knights and Shriners, reaffirm our commitment to the unification and upliftment of all Moorish peoples. This order symbolizes a renaissance of ancient African and Moorish wisdom, harmoniously blended with the prophetic guidance of Noble Drew Ali. Through our adherence to the Noocratic Rules of Chivalry, we strive to manifest a society rooted in divine principles, fostering a world where justice, peace, and righteousness prevail.
In conclusion, as Adepts of the Moorish Science Temple of America, we are honored to uphold these sacred rules, recognizing them as the pillars upon which our divine mission stands. Through unwavering commitment to these principles, we endeavor to fulfill the vision of our holy prophet, Noble Drew Ali, and contribute to the spiritual elevation of humanity.Peace and Love,The Moorish Templist Knights and Shriners under the New Ethiopian Order.
The Sacred Code of the Moorish Knights
Inspired by the ancient traditions of the Moorish Knights of Saladin—renowned Saracen Moors celebrated for their honor, valor, and steadfast devotion—these chivalric rules have been revised by H.I.M. Dr. Lawiy Zodok, a Moorish Knight and Shriner. Today, these timeless precepts are proudly adopted by the Moorish Science Temple of America, particularly by Branch Temple No. 24, whose members—referred to as the Templist in a modern echo of the medieval Templars—are dedicated to upholding the noble legacy of their ancestors.
As Adepts of the Moorish Science Temple of America (M.S.T of A), we stand as torchbearers of a noble lineage that intertwines the ancient chivalric traditions of the Moorish Knights of Saladin with the divine teachings imparted by our holy prophet, Noble Drew Ali. Through the sacred guidance of the Adept Chamber, we are entrusted with upholding the Noocratic Rules of Chivalry, embodying virtues that transcend time and space.
Rules of Chivalry as Revised by H.I.M. Dr. Lawiy Zodok, Moorish Knight and Shriner
- I shall follow the dictates of my moral conscience.
- I shall be ever willing to defend the values I hold dear.
- I shall honor the frailty of human nature and respect those who, despite their weaknesses, show unwavering resolve in their defense.
- I shall love my country with a passion that endures.
- I shall never retreat before the enemy.
- I shall wage unceasing and merciless war against all that is evil.
- I shall obey the commands of those appointed above me, provided they do not conflict with the justice I hold in my heart.
- I shall remain loyal to truth and honor my word at all times.
- I shall be generous and self-sacrificing, offering of myself freely.
- I shall stand as the champion of all that is right and good, forever opposing the forces of evil.
In the Name of The Most High, and in the spirit of our ancient forebears, I present to you the Twelve Pillars of the Templar Code, a sacred covenant influenced by the noble Moorish Knights of Saladin, the storied Saracen Moors whose valor and spiritual insight have been passed down through the ages. As an Adept of the Moorish Science Temple of America, Branch Temple No. #24, where we proudly identify ourselves as Templist, echoing the revered medieval Templars.
I affirm that these twelve pillars guide our conduct and our commitment to the divine mission entrusted to us by the Holy Prophet Noble Drew Ali and the Silent Brotherhood of the East. I speak in the first person as both a guardian and a student of this eternal mystery, following the footsteps of those who walked before us, even Jesus himself, who was both a student and teacher of the ancient mystery school that served as the precursor to the Knights Templar and the protectors of His sacred family and the holy sites in France.
Preserve the Ancient Origins of Religion and Spirituality
I honor the timeless wisdom and divine revelations passed down from our African and Moorish ancestors. By safeguarding the original sources of faith, I help ensure that our spiritual legacy endures beyond the confines of modernity.
Seek Communion with the Feminine Face of God
I embrace the sacred balance between the masculine and feminine aspects of the divine, recognizing that the nurturing, intuitive presence of the feminine is essential to a full and harmonious connection with God.
Practice the Discipline of Daily Prayerful Meditation
I commit to a daily regimen of meditation and prayer, a practice that strengthens my inner resolve, connects me to the divine, and aligns my spirit with the eternal truths revealed by the Silent Brotherhood.
Use One’s Strength Only to Protect and Uphold the Weak
With the valor of the Moorish Knights of Saladin, I dedicate my strength to defend those who cannot defend themselves, ensuring that the vulnerable are shielded from the forces of injustice and tyranny.
Always Uphold and Represent Justice with Fairness
I stand as a beacon of impartiality and righteousness, upholding the principles of justice and fairness in every action, just as our forebears did in the days of the Saracen Moors.
Actively Pursue Scholarly Studies of the Truth
I commit to the lifelong pursuit of knowledge, delving into the sacred texts and mysteries that reveal the hidden dimensions of our existence—truths that have been entrusted to us by our ancient teachers.
Strive to Embody and Exemplify the Virtue of Wisdom
Wisdom, as a fusion of learned truth and divine insight, guides my every decision. I endeavor to become a living exemplar of wisdom, illuminating the path for others within our community.
Respect and Include Women in Balanced Harmony
Recognizing the integral role of women in the divine order, I advocate for their active inclusion and leadership within our spiritual and communal endeavors, fostering a culture of mutual respect and balanced power.
Live by Simplicity, Modesty, and Humility
I choose a life of simplicity and modesty, shedding the excesses of vanity and materialism so that my soul may remain pure and focused on the higher purpose that unites us all.
Practice Moderation as the Foundation of Discipline
Moderation is my guide, ensuring that all aspects of life are balanced. This disciplined approach enables me to maintain clarity, strength, and a steadfast commitment to my spiritual path.
Shun All Forms of Pride in Oneself and Others
I guard against the corruption of pride, understanding that humility is the true mark of greatness. In doing so, I honor the spirit of service and unity that has been the hallmark of our ancient orders.
Avoid and Oppose All Forms of Gossip and Defamation
I vow to maintain the integrity of my community by rejecting harmful speech. Instead, I speak only words that uplift and unite, knowing that slander divides and weakens the bonds of our sacred brotherhood.
These twelve pillars not only define our conduct as modern Templist Knights and Shriners under the New Ethiopian Order but also resonate deeply with the teachings of the Adepts of the Moorish Science Temple. In our sacred Adept Chamber, we internalize these Noocratic Rules of Chivalry, principles that mirror the ancient mystery schools where even Jesus was both a devoted student and a master teacher. Our legacy is one of protection, as the Knights Templar were historically revered as guardians of the family of Jesus and the sacred sites in France. Today, as we adopt these codes, we renew our commitment to defend the divine order, uphold justice, and lead by example, ensuring that the spirit of our ancestors continues to illuminate our path. May our actions honor this eternal covenant and inspire all who seek truth, unity, and divine purpose.
