Beyond the physical remnants of an ancient civilization lies the intangible beliefs of a mystical order. The Egyptian artifacts found in the Rosicrucian Museum provide material evidence of a society based upon philosophies connecting both cosmic and human forces. These cosmic and human forces were united when H. Spencer Lewis, a follower of the Rosicrucian Order, opened the Egyptian museum to provide the opportunity for people to experience the rich heritage of one of the world's oldest civilization.

As Spencer Lewis's small collection of artifacts continued to grow he decided that a museum would be an excellent opportunity to share the past and further establish the headquarters of the Rosicrucian Order. His small collection eventually grew into the largest collection in the United States. The Rosicrucian Order was drawn to their location in San Jose through cosmic forces. They believed the San Jose, and more specifically the corner of Naglee and Park, emanated energy that led them to believe that it was a power center. At the time of their arrival in San Jose, the location was untouched by modern civilization, displaying a natural beauty and meditative environment in which their order could thrive.

Ironically, the members of the Rosicrucian Order are not descendants of the Egyptian People, but rather trace the origins of their beliefs to the mystery cults of the 18th dynasty, about 1350 B.C. During the 18th dynasty, the Pharaoh Akhnaton restricted the beliefs of the Egyptian people, leaving them to find other outlets in which they could explore the mysteries of life. As a result, they established metaphysical schools of knowledge, opening their minds to higher levels of consciousness.

The modern Rosicrucian Order links their philosophies to the traditions and esoteric wisdom of the ancient Egyptians, symbolically connecting the artifacts found in the museum to their school. The Great Sphinx Tablet found in the Egyptian museum, exhibits this link. In ancient Egypt, the Great Sphinx was an essential part of the initiation process of the ancient mystery schools. They believe that initiation rites took place between the paws of the sphinx, under the inscribed tablet of which this replica represents.

Presently, the Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum attracts visitors from across the world, including people of all ages. By opening their doors to the public, the order provides insight into the lives of the ancients and the continuing tradition of the metaphysical and mystery schools. Although the Rosicrucian movement continues to grow, ignorance, fear, and superstition of their beliefs persist. Through their willingness to share their beliefs, the Rosicrucians overcome the obstacles of ignorance and express their desires that each member follow the dictates of his own conscience.

Shannon Barnett Kristine Howie Natalie Miladinovich Bree Nakashima Yi Yam