The Law of Mentalism is one of the foundational principles in Hermeticism, and it posits that the universe itself is mental in nature. This means that everything we perceive, from the material world to our experiences, is a manifestation of the mind, whether it’s the universal mind or the individual mind. The Law of Mentalism asserts that "The All is Mind", suggesting that all of reality, as we know it, is a creation of consciousness.

Here’s a deeper dive into how the Law of Mentalism works and how it could tie into E-Masonry:

Key Concepts of the Law of Mentalism:

  1. The Universe is Mental:

    • According to this law, the entire universe is essentially a mental construct. The physical world, as we see it, is the result of thought, which transcends individual human minds and extends to a universal, divine consciousness or "The All."
    • This aligns with your ideas of God being the Grand Master. The concept that God, as the divine mind, shapes the universe through thought and intention could be a central point of understanding.
  2. Thought Creates Reality:

    • The law teaches that everything in the universe exists because it is thought into existence. Both the material world and spiritual aspects of reality are shaped by thought, whether consciously or unconsciously. This mirrors the idea that our actions and consciousness shape our path and progress in E-Masonry.
    • On a practical level, it means that our mental attitudes, thoughts, and beliefs directly influence the physical and spiritual outcomes we experience.
  3. The Power of the Mind:

    • By understanding and mastering mental forces, an individual can influence and even alter their own reality. In E-Masonry, this would encourage members to develop mental discipline through meditation, prayer, and the study of the mind’s power to align with divine intentions.
    • The mind, then, becomes an instrument for higher knowledge, enlightenment, and spiritual awakening.
  4. The Role of Consciousness:

    • Consciousness is the bridge between the universal mind (God, the Grand Master) and individual minds (the E-Masons). By refining consciousness through discipline and spiritual work, E-Masons can come closer to understanding the "All" and their place in the grand cosmic design.
    • In E-Masonry, you might encourage members to engage in practices that sharpen their consciousness—through study, meditation, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
  5. The Law of Correspondence:

    • This is a related principle which teaches that what is true on one level (mental, physical, or spiritual) is mirrored on other levels. For example, the mental state of an E-Mason can affect the physical and spiritual aspects of their life.
    • The phrase "As above, so below" encapsulates this idea, where the thoughts and actions within the mind can manifest on the material plane.

Incorporating the Law of Mentalism into E-Masonry:

  • Spiritual Growth and Enlightenment:

    • The idea that the mind shapes reality can be deeply tied to the E-Mason's journey toward enlightenment. In the first degree, candidates could be taught that the power to shape their spiritual reality lies within them and that through mental discipline, they can manifest their highest potential.
  • Meditation and Mindfulness:

    • E-Masons could be encouraged to practice mental discipline, especially through meditation and prayer. These practices would help them focus their minds, connect with the universal mind (God), and begin to control their thoughts and actions for spiritual advancement.
    • Encouraging practices like mindfulness helps members align their individual consciousness with the divine consciousness, fostering both personal and collective enlightenment.
  • Mental Purification:

    • Purifying the mind from negative thoughts and distractions is key to unlocking the potential of the Law of Mentalism. Members could be encouraged to practice self-reflection and introspection to clear their minds, making it easier to receive divine insights and guidance.
  • Building and Manifesting Spiritual Power:

    • By understanding that thoughts create reality, members could be taught to focus their mental energies to manifest positive outcomes in their lives and the lives of others. This could involve visualizing personal growth, overcoming obstacles, or even achieving specific spiritual goals.