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Literary notes about Initiation (AI summary)

In literature, initiation often emerges as a multifaceted metaphor representing transformation, belonging, and the beginning of a profound journey. In some works, it marks the commencement of a life-altering experience, such as entering the harsh realities of military life [1] or being inducted into spiritual practices like Kriya Yoga [2][3]. The term also frequently denotes ceremonial entry into exclusive societies, as seen in Masonic rites where darkness gives way to symbolic enlightenment [4][5][6]. Moreover, initiation is portrayed as both a literal ritual and a figurative crossing of thresholds into new states of consciousness or social identity, underscoring its enduring cultural resonance across diverse literary traditions [7][8][9].
  1. This early initiation into the business of arms gave them that warlike character for which they were so celebrated.
    — from The Germany and the Agricola of Tacitus by Cornelius Tacitus
  2. "But I had already received Kriya initiation from Lahiri Mahasaya.
    — from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda
  3. Sri Yukteswar chose the following morning to grant me his Kriya Yoga initiation.
    — from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda
  4. In all of these, as well as in Freemasonry, darkness is the symbol of initiation not complete.
    — from The symbolism of Freemasonry : by Albert Gallatin Mackey
  5. It is the symbol of the autopsy, or the full perfection and fruition of initiation.
    — from The symbolism of Freemasonry : by Albert Gallatin Mackey
  6. Initiation precedes the communication of knowledge in Masonry, as darkness preceded light in the old cosmogonies.
    — from The symbolism of Freemasonry : by Albert Gallatin Mackey
  7. Jesus conferred evangelical initiation on his apostles and disciples.
    — from Secret societies and subversive movements by Nesta Helen Webster
  8. Finally, the New Testament might be regarded as the first initiation, the mystics as the second,—σμικρα και μεγαλα μυστηρια.
    — from The World as Will and Idea (Vol. 1 of 3) by Arthur Schopenhauer
  9. Deep unspeakable suffering may well be called a baptism, a regeneration, the initiation into a new state.
    — from Adam Bede by George Eliot

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