Here, the 3 step thing is from a book called "Behold the Sign", Ancient symbolism by Ralph M. Lewis. he was a Rosicrucian.
"The Three Steps
WHILE EXOTERICALLY REPRESENTING the three steps or phases of life, —youth, manhood and age, or the three degrees of progress through the mysteries of Life, the truly ancient interpretation is quite different.
As temple after temple in ancient Egypt is brought to Light by the excavations of the various exploring organizations, we find that three steps lead to the entrances of these temples or to the altars within. In no part of these temples where any “holy” or sacred point was located do we not find three steps leading thereto.
The explanation—or interpretation—of this symbol is found in the triangle, the most ancient of all symbols or emblems. The equilateral triangle was a mystical symbol because it was possible to place it in any position and have it true in its representation. In this the square or cube was much like the triangle.
The principle is found in the figure 3. This numeral typified the ancient principles of divinities, or the law of creation, perfect creation. Therefore, in approaching a “holy” or sacred place, three steps were taken (as the last steps in reaching the point, not as three steps in the beginning or middle of the approach as is now often done) to indicate that he who approached the point was conscious of, or mindful of, th
three principles of nature and God which gave him earthly existence.
For, according to the law of the triangle, man’s whole conscious
existence depended upon the unity of these three principles in man.
Exoterically the three principles were expressed as body, spirit and soul."
Very interesting if nothing else.
here is what a 123 magic square looks like:
123
231
312
and another
132
321
213