Book of Thoth - Tarot

[Aion]

Ipsissimus is the highest grade in the Golden Dawn system, but I think most agree that it's not attainable in life.

Crowley's A∴A∴ uses the same grade system and I think they claim it is attainable.

Golden Dawn and A∴A∴ actually do not use the same grade system. A∴A∴ is derived from Golden Dawn but they are not the same. Thelema and Golden Dawn are actually incompatible in many ways and although Crowley got his start through them Thelema is an entirely different entity and which does not actually reflect the Golden Dawn system. Part of this is due to the limited but present Christian elements which are within Golden Dawn teachings.

Also, I always find it curious how Ra seems to imply that Don would benefit from the Golden Dawn system, yet make the mention of Ipssissimus as being one who has achieved service to self. This suggests to me that it's possible Ra was referring to the Thelemic Ipsissimus in this question rather than that of the Golden Dawn. The evidence for this is that it is in the Thelemic system that Ipsissimus is considered attainable but not typically so in the Golden Dawn system as you have mentioned. In the previous question Don had been looking at a diagram of magical grades on the Tree of Life, but it was never stated exactly which version he was looking at.

Looking at the Q'uo quote again it seems like they are referring to the Thelemic idea of Ipsissimus as an incarnate individual seeking negative harvestability. Part of the issue I think here is that the same word has been used by multiple groups but in these mentions in the channelings it is never specific.

42.16 Questioner: I had one experience in meditation which I spoke of before which was very profound approximately twenty years ago, a little less. What disciplines would be most applicable to re-create this situation and this type of experience?

Ra: I am Ra. Your experience would best be approached from the ceremonial magical stance. However, the Wanderer or adept shall have the far greater potential for this type of experience which, as you have undoubtedly analyzed to be the case, is one of an archetypal nature, one belonging to the roots of cosmic consciousness.

42.17 Questioner: Was that in any way related to the Golden Dawn in ceremonial magic?

Ra: I am Ra. The relationship was congruency.

42.18 Questioner: Then in attempting to reproduce this experience would I then best follow practices for the Order of the Golden Dawn in reproducing this?

Ra: I am Ra. To attempt to reproduce an initiatory experience is to move, shall we say, backwards. However, the practice of this form of service to others is appropriate in your case working with your associates. It is not well for positively polarized entities to work singly. The reasons for this are obvious.

I believe the reason Ra said these things is because Golden Dawn is explicitly about group work. Without group work, there is no Golden Dawn according to my understanding. Golden Dawn is not meant to be done solo and some would argue it is ineffectual to do so. This is different from Thelema where the purpose is the grasp the "true will" of the self. The intent behind the Golden Dawn is to be of service and to offer that light unto the world, not to keep it for yourself. That is why, I believe, there are so many influential artists, writers, and actors/actresses which have come from their ranks.