In Freemasonry as we know it, the Entered Apprentice is the newly initiated candidate inexperienced and lacking the knowledge of the craft. He is like the rough stone from the quarry that needs to be shaped and polished before it can be used in the building. He is handed the chisel and the common gavel, the tools workmen use to shape the stone or rough ashlar, and he is instructed and challenged to strike off all vices and distractions in his life which may lead him astray, away from what is truly important to living a meaningful and satisfying life.
Conscience, like the Chisel and the common Gavel, will then start knocking off all that is impure, useless, distractive, or superfluous, and the Apprentice's rough stone will thus become as much as possible the Perfect Ashlar fit for the divine Temple.
In this context it is also important to recognize that, in changing the Rough Ashlar into a Perfect Ashlar, the Mason takes away — but never adds to it. As he chips away, he removes visible flaws, but only exposes what was already there. With a hand guided by skill and knowledge, he carefully labors to expose the Perfect Ashlar which was always within: that is the good and just and upright man, accepted as an Apprentice, and (perhaps) made better, — the goal widely advertised by lodges and grand lodges — as he advances in his Masonic career. In connection with this, it must be remembered that this Rough Ashlar is not a mere shapeless stone found by accident, but a stone roughly shaped, suggesting thereby that the Craft is selecting its materials and not attempting to make something out of nothing.
Once the Candidate has been deemed fit to be admitted into the Order, he is "initiated" and given all the instruction necessary to guide him in his path to make himself as much as possible "perfected" in his Masonic and civil life. The ceremony of his initiation closes with a "Charge" apt to shape his Masonic journey, to strike off all vices and distractions in his life which may lead him astray, away from what is truly important to living a meaningful and satisfying life. — This is the Charge to the Newly Initiated Candidate:
"Brother _____________, as you have passed through the ceremony of your initiation, let me congratulate you on being admitted a member of our ancient and honorable institution. Ancient no doubt it is, as having subsisted from time immemorial, and honorable it must be acknowledged to be, as by a natural tendency it conduces to make those so who are obedient to its precepts. Indeed, no institution can boast a more solid foundation than that on which Freemasonry rests - the practice of every moral and social virtue. And to so high an eminence has its credit been advanced that in every age monarchs themselves have been promoters of the art, have not thought it derogatory to their dignity to exchange the sceptre for the trowel, have patronized our mysteries and joined in our assemblies.
As a Freemason, let me recommend to your most serious contemplation the Volume of the Sacred Law, charging you to consider it as the unerring standard of truth and justice and to regulate your actions by the divine precepts it contains. Therein you will be taught the important duties you owe to God, to your neighbor, and to yourself. To God, by never mentioning His name but with that awe and reverence which are due from the creature to his Creator, by imploring His aid in all your lawful undertakings, and by looking up to Him in every emergency for comfort and support. To your neighbor, by acting with him on the square, by rendering him every kind office which justice or mercy may require, by relieving his necessities and soothing his afflictions, and by doing to him as in similar cases you would wish he would do to you. And to yourself, by such a prudent and well-regulated course of discipline as may best conduce to the preservation of your corporeal and mental faculties in their fullest energy, thereby enabling you to exert those talents wherewith God has blessed you, as well to His glory as the welfare of your fellow creatures.
As a citizen of the world, I am to enjoin you to be exemplary in the discharge of your civil duties, by never proposing or at all countenancing any act that may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of society, by paying due obedience to the laws of any State which may for a time become the place of your residence or afford you its protection, and above all, by never losing sight of the allegiance due to the Sovereign of your native land, ever remembering that nature has implanted in your breast a sacred and indissoluble attachment towards that country whence you derived your birth and infant nurture.
As an individual, let me recommend the practice of every domestic as well as public virtues: let Prudence direct you, Temperance chasten you, Fortitude support you, and Justice be the guide of all your actions. Be especially careful to maintain in their fullest splendor those truly Masonic ornaments, which have already been amply illustrated — Benevolence and Charity.
Still, as a Freemason, there are other excellences of character to which your attention may be peculiarly and forcibly directed: amongst the foremost of these are Secrecy, Fidelity, and Obedience. Secrecy consists in an inviolable adherence to the Obligation you have entered into never improperly to disclose any of those Masonic secrets which have now been, or may at any future period be, entrusted to your keeping, and cautiously to avoid all occasions which may inadvertently lead you so to do. Your Fidelity must be exemplified by a strict observance of the Constitutions of the fraternity, by adhering to the ancient landmarks of the Order, by never attempting to extort or otherwise unduly obtain the secrets of a superior degree, and by refraining from recommending anyone to a participation of our secrets unless you have strong grounds to believe that by a similar fidelity, he will ultimately reflect honor on your choice. Your Obedience must be proved by a strict observance of our laws and regulations, by prompt attention to all signs and summonses, by modest and correct demeanor in the Lodge, by abstaining from every topic of political or religious discussion, by a ready acquiescence in all votes and resolutions duly passed by a majority of the brethren, and by perfect submission to the Master and his Wardens whilst acting in the discharge of their respective offices.
And as a last general recommendation, let me exhort you to dedicate yourself to such pursuits as may at once enable you to be respectable in life, useful to mankind, and an ornament to the society of which you have this day become a member; to study more especially such of the liberal Arts and Sciences as may lie within the compass of your attainment, and without neglecting the ordinary duties of your station, to endeavor to make a daily advancement in Masonic knowledge."
From the very commendable attention you appear to have given to this charge, I am led to hope you will duly appreciate the value of Freemasonry, and indelibly imprint on your heart the sacred dictates of Truth, of Honor, and of Virtue." (The Work, also known as the "Black Book" revised September 2009, The Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario, pp. 99 to 106.)
Additional instructions are given to him when he is made a "Fellow-craft":
"You now stand, to all external appearance a just and upright Fellowcraft. I strongly recommend you to continue and act as such, and as I am led to hope that the import of the former charge neither is nor ever will be effaced from your memory, I shall content myself with observing that, as in the former Degree, you had an opportunity of making yourself acquainted with the principles of Moral Truth and Virtue, you are now permitted to extend your researches into the hidden mysteries of Nature and Science."
This means everything under the sun and much more than what the so-called High Degrees pretend to add, with their fantastic tales and vain adornments, to the pristine and pure Freemasonry.
The distinction between the Rough Ashlar and the Perfect Ashlars is only the degree of perfection, for the latter does not differ from the former in its substance, being the same stone as perfected for its intended use; and while none of us may hope ever to become flawless, each of us may become better, in mind and spirit, by removing all that is useless, distractive, vain, or superfluous not only in our civilian, but also in our masonic life.
The rough and perfect ashlars, as symbols, bear the same relation to each other as ignorance does to knowledge, death to life, and light to darkness. In Freemasonry, the rough Ashlar (rude, natural stone), is a symbol of men's natural state of ignorance and a symbol of the profane world. The perfect Ashlar is that very stone hewed, squared, polished and smooth, and is the symbol of the state of perfection attained by means of education and inner development.
The rough Ashlar and the perfect Ashlar are not just two pieces of stone displayed in a Freemasons' lodge — but a symbolic representation of what we have been and what we hope to become. They symbolize Man's moral and spiritual life.
The Apprentice is told that the Ashlars lie open in the lodge for the brethren to moralize on. The lesson is simple but, for the most part, it is quickly referred to and, just as quickly, forgotten.
In fact, as the new Mason, now called a Brother, — according to Krause the only designation which should be heard among Masons, and also the noblest and most dignified that people can give, nobler and worthier than all the honorable titles that describe station and birth — advances through the various degree, to the beautiful, simple, and meaningful white lambskin apron given to our Apprentice at his initiation, trimmings and decorations are added, and the designation of Brother is corrupted, like the Apron, by additions and decorations, in complete antithesis with the symbolical lesson implied by the Rough and Perfect Ashlars.
Let us look at these two fundamental symbols, the Apron and the designation 'Brother' as they are progressively changed (corrupted) in each degree following the Apprentice Degree … in total antithesis with the symbolism of the Ashlars:
E.A.F.C.M.M.
The pure and simple (perfected) E.A. Apron is gradually crowded by additions and vain decorations well fitted and pleasing to the profane eyes.
The Entered Apprentice now hears the adjectives: very, right, and most worshipful added to the noblest and most dignified designation ever thought of, — that of Brother.
W.M./W.P.M.V.W./R. W.M.M.W.G.M.
As the Master Mason advances in his Masonic career, by merit or by necessity (many lodges suffer declining membership and/or attendance, and freshly made Apprentices are rushed in a short time through the ranks - an Apprentice can be made a Master in two months [three meetings] - and cases are seen when that very Apprentice, now a Master, in two-three years is elected Worshipful Master, called to radiate light and knowledge to the rest of the lodge. Now he is no longer addressed with the simple and noblest and most dignified designation of Brother, but this noblest designation is now contaminated by the addition of Worshipful — justified, perhaps, for the Brother holding the office of Master of the Lodge during his tenure, but superfluous for the master after becoming a Past Master — if the lessons of the Level and of the Ashlars are to be believed.
That Past Master, blinded or attracted by the glitter, the gold trims, and cuffs, and collars and additional jewels (or maybe desirous of serving the Craft), enter the race for Grand Lodge elective or appointed office; by necessity (see above) or merit, he is made a Grand Lodge Officer; he is now designated a Very Worshipful, or Right Worshipful, or even a Most Worshipful Brother. The simple and noblest lambskin apron is now crowded by luxurious ornaments, very little of the pure lambskin remains visible; numerous vain ornaments are added to the symbolic Perfect Ashlar. Again, while in office, these titles and ornaments can be justified as pertaining to the dignity of the office, once the tenure has ended, all should return (they do not in our Jurisdiction) to the pure simplicity of the E.A. Apron and the noblest appellation of Brother. Remember: Conscience, like the Chisel and the common Gavel, will then start knocking off all that is impure, useless, distractive, or superfluous, and the Apprentice's rough stone will thus become as much as possible the perfect ashlar fit for the divine Temple.
Then things get worse. Higher Degrees are presented and offered, appealing to our ambition for greater standing and recognition. The Perfect Ashlar has been forgotten since the day after our Initiation. Yes, it, with its counterpart, the Rough Ashlar, still lie permanently open in our lodges for the brethren to moralize on — but we no longer see them: we are blinded by the glitter emanating from the silver or gold trims and jewels and decorations crowding that pure Lambskin Apron, or appended to the collars, sashes, breast pocket and lapels.
These High or Higher Degrees are countless. Their superfluousnesses in decorations, collars, sashes, capes, swords, headgears, medals, jewels, trinkets, and yes, even the desecration of the simple Lambskin Apron has no bounds. The noblest and most dignified designation of Brother is desecrated by superlatives added one on top of the other in child-like contests, like farting the loudest or pissing the highest against the wall, or abandoned totally for other designations like Companion, or Knight or Priest or whatever else the creators of these degrees in their fanaticism were able to think of.
As these Degrees and Systems are too numerous, we will only look at the most common ones practiced under the York Rite and the Scottish Rite, both recognizing and starting their counting from the three blue or Symbolic degrees (Entered Apprentice, Fellow-Craft, and Master Mason).
The York Rite System (on the left of the ledger) comprises three groups (Appendant Bodies or Orders) that confer a total of ten degrees (in the United States — Things change in other countries). There are four Royal Arch degrees (three in Ontario, Canada): Mark Master, Past Master (in the States), Most Excellent Master, and Royal Arch Mason; three Cryptic Rite degrees (which can be skipped): Royal Master, Select Master, Super-Excellent Master, and Thrice Illustrious Master; and three Chivalric Orders: The Illustrious Order of the Red Cross, the Order of Malta, and the Order of the Temple making of the pure and simple Freemason a Knight Templar. One must already be a Master Mason before he can join the York Rite, with much fanfare and little gain, as all that is dealt with in these degrees are topics already taught in the three symbolic degrees of the Blue Lodges, but hashed over with the addition of useless, vain decorations, and inane fantastic tales.
The Supreme Order of the Holy Royal Arch
The purposes and raison d'être of this branch of Freemasonry are expounded in a video presented on the home page of the Grand Chapter of the Royal Arch Mason of Ontario, Canada, aimed at alluring Master Masons of Blue Lodges in that Province to join Royal Arch Masonry as the completion of the third degree and the "Capstone of the Ancient Craft Masonry." This video is very instructing (see here, and scroll down past the middle of the web page): it reveals the benefits gained by being a Royal Arch Mason, which can be summarized thus:
1. The Royal Arch Jewels are the only decorations of any appendant body permitted to be worn in a Craft Blue Lodge,
2. It provides additional Masonic Light and Knowledge to further one's Masonic Education,
3. It provides the only true and historical completion of the Degree of Master Mason,
4. It restores the genuine secrets and words lost with the death of our Grand Master Hiram Abiff. … [to what end?]
Then the "newly initiated" Companion (in the video), speaking like a consummate expert, explains the Royal Arch degrees conferred in a Holy Royal Arch Chapter, and he is received and acknowledged as a Most Excellent Master. [Note: this could very well happen within 4 months of that Apprentice initiation ...]. The presentation ends with the claim that:
5. The Royal Arch Masonry is not just another Masonic body — it is the most integral part of historical speculative Masonry, which provides those critical elements without which Ancient Craft Masonry, the Symbolic Lodge, and the Third degree remains incomplete.
The very first point advertised in the video, and very telling, is the benefit gained by being a Royal Arch Mason: The Royal Arch Jewels are the only decorations of any appendant body permitted to be worn in a Craft Blue Lodge. I see no other conclusion from this declaration: that the principal factor alluring Master Masons to join the Royal Arch appendant body is the license to wear the Royal Arch Jewels in a Craft Blue Lodge. Now, those Blue Lodge Masons, looking for additional (Masonic) benefits gained by joining the Royal Arch, do so for the sake of wearing that jewel in (a Blue) lodge, and in antithesis with the spirit and letter of what they had been told at their initiation into Freemasonry: to strike off all vices and distractions in his life which may lead them astray, away from what is truly important to living a meaningful and satisfying life. As for the other "benefits," points 2, 3, 4, and 5, the Question is: could those "critical elements without which Ancient Craft Masonry, the Symbolic Lodge, and the Third degree remains incomplete" not be provided to the Apprentice while he matures and he is "passed" to the Fellowcraft degree, and then "raised" and made a Master Mason? Are all the Blue Lodges so busy in processing, like assembly lines, Applicants through the degrees, from Apprentice to Master in two months, as not to have the time to provide those critical elements without which Ancient Craft Masonry, the Symbolic Lodge, and the Third degree remains incomplete? I know of lodges stagnating and dying, which for years had met monthly just to open the lodge, to read the minutes of the previous meeting, to pass the accounts and then close the lodge uneventfully. All that instruction and enlightenment, claimed exclusive to the High or Higher Degrees, could be provided to the members of these Blue Lodges, making them vibrant and healthy, even if depriving them of the opportunity to wear richly decorated aprons and sashes, and jewels, and bombastic titles …
Excellent CompanionVery Exc. Comp.Right Exc. Comp.
The noblest designation, Brother, is abandoned for the more convivial — Companion. This designation is also gradually exalted to Excellent Companion, Very Ex. Comp., Right Ex. Comp., and Most Ex. Comp. (Grand First Principal) [third and second-last in the picture above].
The pure and simple (perfected) E.A. Apron is now polluted by elaborate decorations, gold trims, and medals; the Chapter's Principal Officers: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Principals (Zerubabel, Haggai, and Joshua) don bright colored Mantles and carry scepters in their hands. The Rough and Perfect Ashlars still lie open in the Chapter, — but no longer for the brethren to moralize on, as they are overwhelmingly distracted by the magnificent glitter of superfluous ornamentations.
Cryptic Masonry — Council of Royal and Select Masters
According to CrypticRite.org, Cryptic Masonry is the Masonry of preservation. It teaches that the immortal truths of life will never be destroyed; that the approach of disorder and destruction will cause the Craft to deposit these great truths in a safe and secure place where they will be preserved; and, although forgotten and lost for a time, they are kept for future discovery and use of the Craft. Cryptic Masonry is the Alpha and Omega of Ancient Craft Masonry.
The Council confers three degrees: Royal Master, Select Master, and Super Excellent Master. Here too the noblest designation, Brother, is abandoned for the more convivial — Companion, and, following the child-like boasting contest doctrine of farting the loudest or pissing the highest, the principal officer of the Council is designated, as The Thrice Illustrious Master. To keep with grandiosity, the various officers of the Supreme Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters hold the bombastic titles of Very, Right, and Most Illustrious Grand whatever.
As for their Aprons, although not as polluted as those of the Royal Arch, they are still a far cry from the pure and simple (perfected) E.A. Apron of the Symbolic (Blue) Masonry.
Royal MasterRoyal & Select Grand Council ApronsCaps (U.S.)Most Illustrious Grand Master
The Masonic and Military Order of the Red Cross of Constantine
and the Appendant Orders of the Holy Sepulchre and of St John the Evangelist
According to the Red Cross of Constantine, "this Christian Order is in two parts. The first ceremony consists of the Candidate's admission, obligation, and then the Installation as a Knight-Companion of the Red Cross of Constantine, in which the historical basis of the Order is also detailed.
In this Masonic [?] body, for which membership is by invitation only. It is considered by many to be the highest honor that can be awarded within York Rite Masonry. A potential candidate must have demonstrated a high level of dedication and performance in his Masonic activities, be proposed for membership by a member knight, and pass a unanimous ballot in an open Conclave. [Wow!!!]
In separate ceremonies the Knight-Companion builds on what he has already been taught and in the ceremony of the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher and St. John the Evangelist this knowledge is further expanded, and the ultimate aims of Freemasonry are revealed. These, together with the two Installation ceremonies leading to the principal Chairs in the Red Cross of Constantine, are undoubtedly among the most impressive ceremonies in the whole of Freemasonry." [in the realm of Childish Plays, as seen by Bro Johann Gottlieb Fichte in (1802)].
A total of five degrees are conferred within this system: 1° Knight-Mason, 2° Priest-Mason (or Installed Eusebius), 3° Prince-Mason, 4° The Order of the Holy Sepulchre, and 5° The Order of St John the Evangelist.
In this branch of Masonry, the meaningful Apron, and the meaning of the Rough and Perfect Ashlars has been dispensed with. Here the noblest appellation, Brother has been supplanted by Knight-Companion. No Ashlars lie open in the lodge, now called Conclave for the brother [Knight-Companion] to moralize on and strive for the removal of all that is useless, distractive, vain, or superfluous in his mind and spirit, not only in his civilian, but also in his masonic make-believe knightly life. Richly ornate Gloves, Sashes, Mantles, Jewels, Head gears are worn, and scepters, and staffs carried. The designations (Titles) are of very high quality: Worthy Knight (Knight Companion), Venerable Knight (Eusabius), Eminent Knight (Viceroy), Most Puissant Knight (Sovereign), Illustrious, Very Ill., Right Ill., and Most Illustrious Knight. — How can one pass this opportunity to rise from commonness to knightly illustriousness?
The beautiful most human concept and ideal of inclusiveness and tollerance, fundamental in Freemasonry, is now betrayed: only Christians are admitted!
The United Religious, Military and Masonic Orders of the Temple and of St John of
Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes and Malta
This degree is universally associated with the Masonic Knights Templar. In the York Rite system, it is conferred before the Templar Degree; in the 'stand-alone' tradition it is conferred subsequently to the Templar Degree. It is known by varying degrees of formality as the Order of Malta, or the Order of Knights of Malta, or the Ancient and Masonic Order of St John of Jerusalem, Palestine, Rhodes, and Malta. In practice, this last and fullest version of the name tends to be reserved for letterheads, rituals, and formal documents. The ceremony for conferring the degree (which is always worked in full) contains a mixture of masonic tradition, historical accounts of the Order of St John, moral teaching, and the communication of modes of recognition between members. A series of banners is employed in the ceremony, each representing one of the great battles of the historic medieval Order of St John, whose story is the basis of the moral teachings of the degree. [See here. Wait for the page to load the pictures.]
When one is first admitted into this Order, he is normally expected to possess only just the regalia of a Knight Templar. The purchase of the regalia of a Knight of Malta is usually only contemplated as one advance in the Orders…
Everything said above regarding the Order of the Red Cross remains the same for this Order; and the beautiful most human concept and ideal of inclusiveness and tolerance, fundamental to Freemasonry, here too is denied: only Christians are admitted!
Order of the Temple
According to Wikipedia, "the Knights Templar is the final order joined in the York Rite. Unlike other Masonic bodies which only require a belief in a Supreme Being regardless of religion, membership in the Knights Templar is open only to Christian Masons who have completed their Royal Arch and, in some jurisdictions, their Cryptic Degrees. This body is modeled on the historical Knights Templar to carry on the spirit of their organization. Throughout history, it has been claimed that Freemasonry itself was founded by the Knights Templar or that the Knights Templar took refuge in Freemasonry after their persecution. The Grand Encampment of the United States acknowledges the existence of these theories but states that there is no proof to justify such claims."
Local Knights Templar divisions are called a Commanderies and operates under a state level Grand Commandery as well as The Grand Encampment [of the United States. — Wikipedia]
According to yorkrite.org, "the Order of the Temple is the crowning glory of York Rite Masonry. It is widely regarded as the most solemn and impressive experience in Masonry. Here the aspirant progresses in the footsteps of Jesus of Nazareth." [Nonsense and total B.S.: Jesus of Nazareth would have never defiled the purity of his message by going around wearing all that clownish paraphernalia worn by the illustrious and Most Eminent Knights depicted here. — Not even the Holy Father, sitting on Peter's throne goes that far.]
"Freemasonry demands only a belief in a monotheistic God, where Hindu, Muslim, Jew, and Gentile may together worship around its altars. The Christian Freemason alone has at his disposal a branch of the fraternity where he is free to interpret the teachings of the Symbolic Lodge according to his religious belief. The Masonic Orders of Christian Knighthood are the logical outcome of the Christian Mason's belief in Christ as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. That Mason believes Christ's hand will raise the dead to life, and in His Holy Name, the True Word is found and restored at last. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
It is further claimed: "The regular meetings of the various degrees are conducive to firmer relationships and a closer spirit of brotherly love. Being a York Rite Mason does not mean being elevated to a "higher rank." It is an educational tool to help realize the Fatherhood of God and Brotherhood of Man in a Mason's own life."
In the Order of the Temple, originally (before 1873), the noblest and most dignified designation of a member, Brother, was supplanted by Frater. By 1881 the title had been changed to "Sir Knight." The 'Sir' is dropped when the office/rank form is used — "Eminent Knight," "Very Eminent Knight," "Most Eminent Knight," and a slew of "Grand," "Very," "Right," "Most" (all Eminent Knights) fill the officers ranks such as Prior, Seneschal, Commandant, Turcopolier, Herald, Sword Bearer, Standard Bearer, Bishop, Prelate, Squire, Companion-At-Arms, Sergeant, Staff Sergeant, Sergeant 1st class, First Sergeant, Master Sergeant, Sergeant Major, Knight of Justice, Knight of Grace, Guardian of the Temple, Monsignor, Knight Paladin, Knight Grand Cross, etc., etc., etc. ad nauseam, just to name a few.
Isn't all this impressive paraphernalia and titles diametrical opposite, vain and superfluous, and anti-conducive to that firmer relationship and closer spirit of brotherly love the Entered Apprentice was taught at his initiation with the lesson of the Rough and Perfect Ashlars and the simple purity of his Apron?
(Note the "Eminent Knights" in the background half-asleep or totally uninterested)
The Scottish Rite Degrees
According to the Supreme Council of the A&ASR in Scotland website, "the complete A&ASR system consists of Thirty Three Degrees."
"The Supreme Council for Scotland expressly recognizes the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Scotland over the Three Symbolic Degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, and, in so far as claimed by the Grand Lodge of Scotland the Degree of Mark Master Mason and the Ceremony of Installed Master. The Supreme Council for Scotland admit none to the Fourth and succeeding Degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite unless previously raised Master Mason in a regularly constituted Lodge holding of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, or of a Grand Lodge of Craft Masonry recognized by the Grand Lodge of Scotland." And further states that its first three degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason are considered to be identical to the three Degrees of Craft Masonry controlled by the Grand Lodge of Scotland.
1° Apprentice2°Fellowcraft3° Master Mason
Scottish Rite Bodies
The Scottish Rite is divided into four bodies, each representing a theme of instructions for the Candidate to study, learn, and inculcate into his everyday living.
• Lodge of Perfection
• Chapter of Rose Croix
• Council of Kadosh
• Consistory
Lodge of Perfection
The degrees of the Lodge of Perfection are better known as the "Ineffable Degrees" of the Scottish Rite Masonry because their principal purpose is the investigation and contemplation of the ineffable (unspeakable) name of Deity.
The Lodges of Perfection is assembled in Reunions held usually twice a year to ballot and confer the 4th to the 14th degrees inclusive, and for the election and installation of new officers. These degrees [like all the ones of the York Rite seen above] claim to "continue the story of the building of King Solomon's Temple", and "amplify and conclude the legend of the Master Mason degree." They are designed to impress more forcefully the teachings of the first three degrees of Craft Masonry. The 4th, 5th, 7th, 13th, and 14th degrees are obligatory: the others,
if not given in full, are "communicated" by obligation and explained.
4° Secret Master
5° Perfect Master
6° Intimate Secretary
7° Provost and Judge
8° Intendant of the Building
9° Elect of the Nine
10° Elect of the Fifteen
11° Elect of the Twelve
12° Grand Master Architect
13° Royal Arch of Solomon
14° Grand Elect Perfect and Sublime Mason.
Notable is the practice of conferring these meaningfully profound and instructive 14 High Degrees in the course of less than two days, starting at 7:30 p.m. the first day (conferring the 4th and 5th degree), including the openings and closings of the lodge (of Perfection), then continuing the second day at 10:00 a.m. for the conferral of the ensuing 11 degrees, each more or less one hour apart, a dinner at 5:30 p.m., the reception of Active and Honorary Members of the Supreme Council and prominent guests at 7:00 p.m., and then the conferral of the 14th degree the same evening … each participant rushing in and out of the cabaret-like dressing room careful to put on the right apron, collar, sash, and other paraphernalia called for in each degree, while the lodge room decorations are rearranged…
4° Secret Master
The Secret Master's Lodge is hung with black draperies strewn with [white] tears. There is no Ashlars for the brethren to moralize on, but other monuments decorated the lodge: a bronze basin filled with pure water, napkins, and a bunch of purificatory hyssops, a seven-branch candelabra, and more … The Candidate is called "Brother" and becomes a "Secret Master" after his Obligation. The presiding officer is called Thrice Potent Master (representing King Solomon) and wears a black robe, a blue decorated Collar, and a wide blue Sash from right to left, and a scepter in his hand.
The pure and simple (perfected) E.A. Apron is now trimmed in black.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The teachings of masonry are not to be taken lightly. Learning far outlasts physical monuments. The Duties of a Mason (Practice silence, obedience, fidelity) are not to be performed expecting reward — but expecting personal satisfaction". [Note: the Apprentice was already given these lessons at his Initiation.] This degree is uselessly superfluous.
5° Perfect Master
The Lodge of Perfect Master is now to be adorned in green and with four white columns erected at equal distance from each side. It must be illuminated by sixteen stars at each corner of the four cardinal points.
In the East there must be a red canopy and, in front of it, a table covered with a black cloth sprinkled with silver tears.
The presiding officer is called Thrice Respectable Master (representing the noble Adoniram) and wears a black robe, a green Collar, a wide green Sash, and a scepter in his hand. The "Brother" is now called a Perfect Master.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "Life is uncertain; death may call at any time. The noblest portion of humanity is virtue for virtue's sake. The Apprentice was already taught both these lessons, and the Mason's Duties, (Be industrious and honest), at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
6° Intimate Secretary or Master of the Brazen Serpent
This Lodge must be illuminated by twenty-seven lights arranged in three groups of nine, placed as in the symbolic Lodge, that is, in the East, in the West, in the South. The Lodge is hung with black draperies strewn with [white] tears. The "Brother" is now called an Intimate Secretary.
The degree is based on a fantastic tale of King Solomon's rage seeing the goods promised by Treaty by King Hiram of Tire not delivered … According to the Scottish Rite website, the degree "teaches that devotion to one's friends and zealousness in performing one's duties are rewarding virtues." The Entered Apprentice in the 1st degree of (Craft Masonry) had already learned this lesson when he was told about "Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth" together with the symbolization of the Plumb Rule … The pure and simple (perfected) E.A. Apron is now bordered in bright crimson and crowded with Phoenician letters; on the flap is an embroidered equilateral triangle. The jewel hanging from the collar is a triple-delta superimposed upon an equilateral triangle of gold. Each delta has a center design composed of one of the astrological signs for the Sun, Moon, and Mercury.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "… decisions should not be made only on appearances. To be curious is a good quality when directed toward the examination of social miseries, their reasons, and how they can be eliminated." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
7° Provost and Judge
This Lodge of the Provost and Judge or of the Irish Master must be hung in red and illuminated by five large lights placed one in the center of the Lodge and the others at each corner. The Master is in the East, under a blue canopy sprinkled with gold stars. His title is that of Thrice Potent and Illustrious, and represents Titus, prince of the Harodim. The "Brother" is now called a Provost and Judge. The apron is of white lambskin edged in red. In the center is a red-edged pocket with a red and white rosette just below the opening. This pocket holds the plans for the Temple. The jewel is a gold key hanging from the collar and sash.
This degree alludes to the biblical saga of Joseph and teaches to judge righteously, without respect to the person, and that one law and one custom shall apply to all. Let justice be impartial, tempered with deserved mercy, doctrines already explained in the E.A. Degree of Craft (Blue) Lodge.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "A law voluntarily accepted by a community should be a kind of lifestyle for the individuals comprising that community, and justice must always be observed. For a law to be considered as being accepted voluntarily, it should have been freely examined, discussed and voted by the people." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous, as also are its theatrical attires and vanities.]:
8° Intendant of the Building
This Lodge of Intendant of the Building or Master in Israel, or Scottish Master of the Three J.J.J. must be hung in red and illuminated by twenty-seven lamps, divided into three groups of nine, around the Lodge, and by five other large candelabras, placed at the foot of the altar, on the opposite side of the seat of the Thrice Potent and Illustrious Master who, in this Degree, represents king Solomon. The "Brother" is now called an Intendant of Buildings. The pure and simple white E.A. Apron is now lined with red and trimmed with green. A nine-pointed star is embroidered in its center, and over that the Scales; on the lowered bib there is a Triangle with the Phoenician letters B, A and J at its corners. This is also the jewel of the degree, hanging from the collar, and likewise suspended from the sash by a green ribbon.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "benevolence and charity. This degree investigates the necessity of acting on what we learn; and that we should freely transmit our knowledge to others. The strength of the Temple depends on both hard work and ownership. When a man attains a title or position based on his own earning of it, he becomes both knowing and free; he is not …." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
9° Master of the Temple
This Lodge of Master of the Temple or Elect of the Nine must be hung in black, decorated with alternating columns and flames. The Master represents Solomon and is called Supreme Sovereign. The "Brother" is now called a Thrice Respectable Brother Elect of the Nine. The pure and simple white E.A. Apron is now lined and bordered in black. The sash is a broad, black watered ribbon, worn from the right shoulder to the left hip; from the end of the sash hangs the jewel (double-edged dagger); at its lower end are nine red rosettes, four on each side and one at the bottom; the same for the collar. The rosettes symbolize the original nine Elus or 'Elected'.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "… ignorance is the enemy of freedom. Fear and ignorance are the two major enemies which enslave men. It is important that we do not become slaves of certain ideas; that we have the power to fight against…." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
10° Elect of the Fifteen
This Lodge (or Chapter) of Master Elect or Illustrious Elected of Fifteen and presided by the Most Illustrious Thrice Potent Master and is hung in black, sprinkled with white and red tears.
The "Brother" is now called an Illustrious Master Elect Master of Fifteen. The pure and simple white E.A. Apron is now lined, edged and fringed with black; the flap is also black. In the center are painted or embroidered three gates, and over each gate is a rosette representing the three assassins of Hiram as well as those vices against which Masonry is particularly opposed: ignorance, tyranny, and fanaticism. The sash is a broad watered black ribbon, worn from right shoulder to left hip; on the front are embroidered three rosettes bearing the same symbolism as those on the apron. The jewel is a dagger, its hilt gold, and its blade silver; it hangs from the end of the sash.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The enlightenment of soul and mind, vigilance, tolerance and being on guard for fanaticism and persecution. This degree teaches toleration of others. Everyone has the right to his own political or spiritual views." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
11° Sublime Masters Elected or Elect of the Twelve
This Lodge (or Chapter) of Sublime Masters Elected of Twelve are to be considered the superiors and those in charge of the previous Degrees. This Degree is the reward given to those Elected who are the most educated, and who have served the Order with zeal, fervor, and constancy. The Lodge is presided by the Most Illustrious Master, and he is addressed as Thrice Potent Master. The lodge is hung in black, sprinkled with white and red tears.
The "Brother" is now called a Thrice Respectable Brother Elect of the Twelve. The pure and simple white E.A. Apron is now lined, edged and fringed with black; the flap is also black. In the middle is an embroidered flaming heart. The Sash is a broad black watered ribbon, worn from right to left. Above the flaming heart on the sash are painted or embroidered the words Vincere aut Mori; literally, 'Victory or Death'. The jewel is a golden dagger.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Elu of the Twelve are to be earnest, true, reliable and a champion of the people. This degree teaches sympathy. We should be sympathetic to our brother masons and to all mankind as well. This degree emphasizes that life is a school for moral and spiritual training; that the entire lesson is a course in virtue, happiness, and…." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
12° Grand Master Architect or Master of Mercy
This Lodge (or Chapter) of Grand Masters Architect must have white hangings sprinkled with flames. The Master is called Grand Master Architect and wears a white priestly tunic, a large blue sash worn from the right shoulder to the left hip. This degree teaches faith in morality and virtue and in God.
The "Brother" is now called again Brother. The pure and simple white E.A. Apron is now lined and bordered with blue. On the flap is embroidered a protractor; and in the middle of the body a sector and the compasses arranged to form a triangle. The sash is a broad, blue watered ribbon, worn from the left shoulder to the right hip. The jewel is a heptagonal medal of gold. On one side, at each angle, is a five-pointed star, enclosed by a semicircle. In the center, on the same side, is an equilateral triangle, formed by arcs of circles. On the reverse side are five columns, representing the different orders of architecture, arranged from left to right, with the initial of the proper order below each, in old English letters - [T]uscan, [D]oric, [I]onic, [C]orinthian, [C]omposite. Above these columns are a sector and a slide-rule; below them, the three kinds of compasses, the plain scale, and the parallel ruler. Between the second and third and the third and fourth columns are Phoenician letters equivalent to the English or Roman letters 'R' and 'B'.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To seek wisdom through knowledge. This degree teaches faith in morals and virtues and in God. "Life is what each man makes of it; the optimist turns a trial into a blessing." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
13° The Royal Arch of Solomon (or of Enoch) or Master of the Ninth Arch
This Lodge (or College) "must be a very secret place and should be an underground vaulted crypt, with no doors or windows, accessible only through a small manhole, large enough for a Brother to pass through to descend. At the center of the crypt there must be a hollow triangular pedestal having in the upper part, and also in the three lateral sides, the Great Name of God, in such a way that, when a light source is placed inside the base, the Name appears on the three lateral faces and on the top. The crypt must be painted white."
The "Brother" is still called Brother; There must be two Principal Officers: 1) King Solomon called Thrice Potent who sits with the crown on his head on the throne placed under a richly decorated canopy, a scepter in his hand, dressed in a royal yellow robe, and a type of cape or cloak of blue satin with trimmings of ermine that goes down to the elbow, a large purple sash carried from the right shoulder to the left hip, with a golden Triangle hanging from the sash; 2) King Hiram of Tire, dressed like a traveler, with a hat on his head, wearing the same sash and the same jewel, and holds in his hand a drawn sword" [The Francken MS]. The pure and simple white E.A. Apron is now "… of crimson velvet. Upon it is embroidered a triangle emitting rays, and in the middle a letter, an archaic form of the Semitic Yod. The sash is a broad, watered purple ribbon worn from the right shoulder to the left hip from which is suspended a golden triangle. The jewel is a circular medal of gold, around which, on one side are the following letters, words and number: R,S,R,S,T,P,S,R,I,A,J, et S, ANNO ENOCHI 2995. On the same side is an engraving of the ground with a rectangular hole in it into which two men are lowering a third with a rope. On the reverse side is a triangle emitting rays and in the middle of it is the same letter as is on the apron. This medal is to be worn upon the chest, suspended by a narrow, white watered ribbon …" [Ventura Valley Scottish Rite].
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To seek knowledge and to be motivated by duty and honor. This degree teaches liberty in our minds and our hearts, motivated by duty and honor. Men must find the truth within the caverns of their own conscience." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
14° Grand Elect Perfect and Sublime Mason or Perfect Elu
This Lodge "represents an underground vault, painted or hung in red and features numerous fire-colored columns. Behind the president, who symbolizes Solomon and who is called Thrice Potent, must be a light, placed behind a transparent screen and which illuminates the whole Lodge across the Delta; printed in its center are the Hebrew letters representing the Burning Bush." The "Brother" is now called Grand Elect, Perfect and Sublime Master.
The apron is of white lambskin, lined with crimson and edged with blue. Around it, on the inside of the blue edging is a delicate embroidery in crimson representing a wreath of flowers. In the middle of the apron is painted or embroidered the jewel, and on the flap is a representation of a flat square stone to which is attached a ring, representing the entrance to the secret vault of the preceding degree. The collar is crimson velvet, worn over the neck and coming to a point on the breast. On the left side is embroidered, in green, a branch of acacia, symbolizing immortality. On the right is embroidered, in silver, a five-pointed star, with a Phoenician word meaning 'perfection' in the center. The jewel is a pair of compasses, opened upon a quarter of a circle, and surmounted by a pointed crown. Within the compasses is a medal, representing on one side the sun, and on the other a five-pointed star, in the center of which is a delta, and on that the name of Deity in Phoenician characters. According to Francken MS, this is The Last Degree of Freemasonry.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "We are to assist, encourage and defend the brethren; to protect the oppressed and relieve want and distress; to enlighten the people and serve the common good. In the degree we learn to reflect and look into ourselves. We should strive to be true to ourselves and our God ." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous, as also are its theatrical attires and vanities.]:
Chapter of Rose Croix
The Chapters of Rose Croix confers the 15th to 18th degrees inclusive. The 15th and 16th degrees relate to the rebuilding of the Second Temple of Zerubbabel. The 17th degree is an approach to, and the 18th degree a recognition of the Christian ethics in universal terms, thus assisting in the building, in our hearts, of the Third Temple, not made with hands. The 18th degree is supplemented by the beautiful Maundy Thursday and Easter ceremonies. The 15th and 18th degrees are obligatory. [The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry —Valley of Sacramento]. The Francken MS calls it "The Renewed Freemasonry, or the Rectified Sword in the Grand Lodges of Prussia and France, the Islands of Hispaniola and Jamaica, the province of New York and more particularly in Bordeaux, Marseille, Toulon, Cap Français, Cayes de Fond, Kingston (Jamaica) and Albany in the province of New York.
Established by the Illustrious Brother Stephen Morin, Prince of the Royal Secret, etc. etc. and revived (awakened) by Henry Andrew Francken, Prince of the Royal Secret, Delegate Grand Inspector General of all the Superior Lodges, Chapters, etc., for the two hemispheres.
15° Knight of the East or Knight of the Sword, or Knight of the Eagle
This Chapter or Council "of Knights of the East or of the Sword is held in a room decorated with teal-colored curtains, in memory of the events that were related to the banks of the Euphrates river (which is called Starbuzanai in this degree) at the time of the return of the Israelites from captivity, events that will be narrated later. These draperies must be strewn with red in remembrance of the Assyrian bloodshed and which reddened the river.
The "Brother" is now called a Knight; The Cordon of a Knight of the East is a broad, green watered ribbon, worn as a baldric belt, edged on the upper side and fringed with gold on the lower. It is worn around the waist with the ends hanging down on the left side. On one end there is a gold arched bridge with the letters L.D.P. over the arch. Suspended from the right side is a small silver trowel. The Sash of a Knight of the East is a broad, green watered ribbon, worn as a baldric, from the left to right, without a jewel. The apron is crimson velvet. On the flap is an embroidered gold bleeding head over crossed swords. In the center are three nested gold triangles formed from chains with triangular links. The jewel is three nested triangles of gold. In the center are two crossed swords, points upward, the hilts resting on the base of the inner triangle. There are additional decorations peculiar to this degree: green kid gloves and a black broad-brimmed hat with a green plume — in complete antithesis with the symbolical lesson implied by the Rough and Perfect Ashlars. [See Ventura Valley Scottish Rite.]
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "to rebuild the Masonic Temple of liberty, equality and fraternity in the souls of men." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous, as also are its theatrical attires and vanities.]:
16° Prince of Jerusalem
This Grand Council of the Illustrious and Most Valiant Princes of Jerusalem is to be held in a chamber separated in two by an arch. The western part must be hung with yellow-colored hangings and represents Babylon. The Most Illustrious and Most Valiant [presiding] sits in a red armchair with a crown on his head and a scepter in his hand. A small square table is placed in front of him. A drawn sword, scales, a hand of justice, and a scroll of parchment are placed on it.
The eastern part is decorated in yellow and represents Jerusalem. The King of kings sits on a yellow-colored throne. Above a triangular table are an unsheathed sword, the scales, a shield, a scepter, and a five-arm candelabra. He wears a large pale-yellow sash that goes from the left shoulder to the right hip. On this sash hangs the Jewel of the degree, a golden medal engraved on the front with a balanced scales held by a hand, on the reverse, with a double-edged cross-hilted sword, with one star over the point and two on each side. The sword stands upright, hilt downward. On one side of the stars is the letter 'D', and on the other, the letter 'Z', the initials of Darius and Zerubbabel. The apron is crimson, lined and edged with the color saffron. On the flap is a balanced scale, held by 'the hand of justice'. In the middle of the apron is a representation of the Second Temple, on one side of which is a sword lying across a buckler, and on the other, a square and a triangle. On the left and right sides are the Phoenician letters equivalent to the Greek letters Alpha and Theta. All Princes must wear the same Jewel. The noblest designation, Brother, is now vainly corrupted to "Most Excellent Brother and Prince" and the lesson of the Rough and Perfect Ashlars and the meaning of the simple purity of the E.A. Apron have long been forgotten.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Princes of Jerusalem are to aid those who labor to build the Symbolic Temple; to judge equitably and fairly; to keep faith in the justice and beneficence of God and to press forward with hope for the persecuted and oppressed. This degree teaches "heroism of patience, the nobility of self-sacrifice" and compassionate judgment, along with charity, fidelity and.…." The Apprentice, as a Just and Upright Man, had already knowledge of these lessons before his Initiation, and more so after he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree, with all its theatrics and nonsense, is useless to him and superfluous.]
17° Knight of the East and West
The Grand Council of the Knights of the East and West was to be hung with red tapestries and sprinkled with gold stars. To the East, there must be a throne raised by seven steps, supported by four lions or four eagles, separated from each other by a figure of a man [angel] with six wings. The Worshipful Master is here called Most Potent, the other 21 Officers are called Respectable Elders, and the other members now lose their noblest designation, Brother, and are now called Respectable Knights.
All Brethren must wear a white robe with a golden belt, have a long white beard, and wear a golden crown. If they keep their usual clothes, the Knights wear a large white sash, from the right shoulder to the left hip, crossed by a black one of equal width, worn from left to right [see Francken MS.]. The jewel of the degree, a heptagonal (seven-sided) medal, half gold and half silver or mother of pearl, is suspended from the latter. On one side are engraved, at the angles, the same letters as are on the capitals of the columns in the ceremony and possessing the same meaning, that of the last seven of the Sephiroth of the Kabbalah. A star is over each. In the center, on the same side, is a lamb, lying on a book with seven seals, on which seals are, respectively, the same letters, though shown in this representation as the Roman equivalents. On the reverse side are two crossed swords, points upward; their hilts rest on an even balance. In the corners are the initials in Greek of the names of the Seven Churches (Revelation 2 and 3). The apron is of yellow silk, lined and edged with crimson; it is triangular in shape, having in the center a gold Tetractys formed of 10 Hebrew Yods.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To work, reflect and pray; to hope, trust and believe; to teach the truths that are hidden in allegory and concealed by the symbols of Freemasonry. The lessons of this degree are that loyalty to God is man's primary allegiance, …." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
18° Knight of the Rose Croix (Also Knight of The White Eagle or Knight of The Pelican)
One cannot but be surprised to note that an object as perfect as Freemasonry can present variations, especially as regards the name of this Degree. The reasons will become clear to you when you know that the different nations were very eager to learn the deeper mysteries of the Order, even though they ignored the original forms of our Instructions. The error is due to some adept, whose personal ignorance did not allow to understand well even the simplest symbolic figures. They are the ones who, starting from a distorted knowledge of the Order, foreign to its true source, manufactured some Degrees somewhat resembling the truth and gave them new names. [Francken MS.]
The Lodge must have two apartments, the first representing Mount Calvary and the second the Tomb of the G.A.O.T.U. in order to symbolically reproduce the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The First Apartment is hung in black. It is illuminated by thirty-three lights in three groups of eleven each, representing the age of the Savior. In this room, there are three bearing pillars of six feet high, engraved on their capitals, the first, positioned at the corner between East and North, the word Faith, the second, positioned to the East, the word Hope and, finally, the last, positioned in the corner between the South and the East, the word Charity.
All Brethren must be dressed in black. The Apron is white satin bordered with crimson on one side and black on the other. On the white side is embroidered the pelican side of the jewel. On the black side is a large red passion cross. The Sash, worn from left to right, is of velvet or silk, crimson on one side and black on the other; it is plain on the crimson side. A red passion cross is embroidered on the black side and worn over the heart. The jewel is the compasses with points opened to sixty degrees and resting on the segment of a graduated circle. On the lower part, on one side, is an eagle, with his wings extended and head lowered. The Master is called Most Wise, the Wardens are Thrice Excellent Wardens, the Brother is now called a Perfect Mason, also Knight of The White Eagle or Knight of The Pelican.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To practice virtue; to labor to eliminate vice; to purify humanity; to be tolerant of the faith and creed of others. This degree teaches that life and its strengths come from God." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. The Apprentice, as a Just and Upright Man, had already knowledge of these lessons before his Initiation, and more so after he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree, with all its theatrics and nonsense, is useless to him and superfluous.]
Council of Kadosh
The Council of Kadosh confers the 19th to the 30th degrees inclusive. These degrees, often elaborate and highly dramatic, cover a variety of approaches to Masonic teaching. Some have the Crusades as background.
19° Grand Pontiff
20° Master of the Symbolic Lodge
21° Noachite or Prussian Knight
22° Knight Royal Axe or Prince of Libanus
23° Chief of the Tabernacle
24° Prince of the Tabernacle
25° Knight of the Brazen Serpent
26° Prince of Mercy or Scottish Trinitarian
27° Knight of the Sun, Prince Adept
28° Knight Commander of the Temple
29° Scottish Knight of St. Andrew
30° Knight Kadosh. [See more information here]
19° Grand Pontiff (Also Brother of the Trail or Sublime Scotch Mason, which is part of the Johannite Degrees.)
The furnishings of this lodge must be blue, studded with gold stars. The Respectable and Wise Master is called Thrice Potent Grand Pontiff and wears a white satin Tunic. All Brethren are dressed the same and are called Faithful and True Brethren. Everyone must wear on their foreheads a blue band embroidered with twelve stars. The Thrice Potent Grand Pontiff seats on a throne under a blue canopy, holding a scepter in his hand. Behind him, in a niche, covered with a transparent veil, there must be a sufficient light to illuminate the whole Lodge.
The Sash is crimson, bordered with white, and worn from left to right. Where it crosses the breast, embroidered in gold are twelve stars and the Greek letters Alpha and Omega. In this degree there is also a fillet, or headband, of blue with twelve stars upon it. Another distinctive ornament of this degree is the breastplate of the High Priest of ancient Israel with twelve different gems embedded in a 4 x 3 matrix. Upon each gem is one of the initials of the twelve names (or attributes) of Deity mentioned in the ritual. The jewel is an oblong square of solid gold, with the letter Aleph engraved on one side and Tau on the other. Not in all Jurisdictions an Apron is worn in this Degree.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "Grand Pontiffs are to be content to labor for the future; to serve the cause of truth with patience and industry; and to destroy error, falsehood and intolerance with truth, honesty, honor, and charity. The lessons of this degree are learned from the past and how it affects the present and the way we live in the future." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
20° Master of the Symbolic Lodge (Also Master ad Vitam or Venerable Grand Master)
The Lodge must be hung in blue and yellow. The Grand Master sits on a throne raised by nine steps and placed under a canopy. In front of him there is an altar on which a sword, a Bible, a compass, a square, a Gavel, etc. are placed, as is done in a Symbolic Lodge. A nine-branched candelabrum, placed between the altar and the south column, must always be lit in this lodge. The Grand Pontiff represents Cyrus, Darius, or Artaxerxes, and wears the royal insignia as well as a large yellow-blue Sash. The Candidate represents Zerubbabel and wears the decorations of this Higher degree, and he is no longer called "Brother" but Grand Master of all Lodges.
The apron is yellow, bordered and lined with sky-blue. In the center are three concentric equilateral triangles, with the initial letters of the nine Great Lights in the corners. The letters stand for the following: Charity, Generosity, Veneration, Heroism, Patriotism, Honor, Toleration, Truth, and Justice. In the center of the inner Triangle is the Tetragrammaton in Phoenician characters. Across it, from below upwards, are the Hebrew letters Yod, He, Yod, written vertically bottom to top and sideways. The remaining letters are Aleph, Vau, Ras; together the letters form the Hebrew for "Let Light Be!" or, as in the King James Version of the Bible, "Let there be light" (Gen. 1:3). The Sash is a broad ribbon of yellow and sky-blue; it may also be two ribbons, one of each color, crossing each other. The jewel is gold, like the triangles on the apron, with the same words and letters.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To dispense light and knowledge and to practice Masonic virtues. This degree shows us Liberty, Fraternity and Equality. These teach moral, religious and philosophical understanding." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
21° Noachite, or Prussian Knight (Also Patriarch Noachite)
The apron and gloves of this degree are yellow. On the upper part of the apron is an arm, naked and upraised, holding a naked sword. Under it is a human figure, erect, with wings, the forefinger of his right hand on his lips; in his left hand he holds a key. He is the Egyptian figure of silence, called by the Greeks Harpocrates, though the wings are an addition. The Sash is a broad black ribbon, worn from right to left. The jewel is a silver full moon, suspended from the third buttonhole of the vest, or a golden triangle traversed by an arrow, point-upward, suspended from the collar. On the jewel is an arm upraised, holding a naked sword, and around it the motto, Fiat Justitia, Ruat Coelum, meaning 'Let there be Justice, though the Heavens fall'.
The Master of the Chapter is called Lieutenant Grand Commander, the Brother is now called Prussian Knight. [See also The Francken MS.]
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "that humility, modesty, trust in God and to be steadfast and courageous in the face of adversity. The lesson from this degree is to learn that arrogance; defamation and cowardice are unworthy attributes of a mason …." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
22° Knight of the Royal Axe, or Prince of Libanus (Also Patriarch Noachite)
The apron is white, lined and bordered with purple. In the middle is embroidered a round table, on which are mathematical instruments and unrolled plans. On the flap is a serpent with three heads, denoting idleness, the body from which issues the three vices symbolized by the heads: drunkenness, impurity, and gaming. The Collar is a broad rainbow-colored ribbon, lined with purple. It is worn as a collar or may be worn as a sash, from right to left. The jewel, suspended from the collar, is a golden ax and handle. The letters on one side of the blade, of Adoniram, Kuros, Darius, Zerubbabel, Nehemiah, and Ezra; and those on the other side, of Shem, Kham, Yapheth, Moses, Aholiab and Bezalel.
The Lodge is called Council, the presiding Master is called Grand Prince, the Brother is again called Brother. [See The Francken MS.]
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To respect labor for its own sake and to do work. This degree teaches, "if a job is worth doing its worth doing well". By doing good work we improve our character and become better citizens. Work is the mission of man." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous, as also are its theatrical attires and vanities.]:
23° Chief of the Tabernacle (Also Knight of Valor, K. of the Sun, K. of the Eagle, Key of Freemasonry)
The Lodge is called Grand Council and must be illuminated by a single light [a large globe], representing the divine Light. The Light [Globe] that shines in our Council consists of a glass globe filled with water placed in front of the light source. Thus, the scattered light is made clearer by refraction. This Globe is located in the South. The presiding officer is called The Grand Master, or Thrice Potent, representing Father Adam and sits in the East, wearing a yellow robe as pale as the morning, hat on his head. He holds a golden scepter topped with a golden globe, and a Sun hanging from a gold chain around his neck. A globe is engraved on the back of this medal.
The Apron is white, lined with scarlet and bordered with red, blue and purple ribbons. In the middle is painted or embroidered the golden candelabrum with seven lights. A red leather belt is also worn, fringed along the lower edge with gold, from which hangs the jewel. The jewel is a small silver censer, or ornamental cup, with a long handle; the end serves as a stand for the cup and is shaped like an open hand. The Brother is now called Brother Truth. [See The Francken MS.]
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Chiefs of the Tabernacle are to be devoted to the service of God; to constantly endeavor to promote the welfare of man; to act with proper subordination to your superiors. This degree teaches that the man who forgets his duty to God, family, country, and himself will be in danger of morally and spiritually destruction." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
24° Prince of the Tabernacle (or Brother of the Forest, Knight Kadosh or of the Black and White Eagle)
The Lodge is called Chapter or Consistory of Grand Inspectors of Lodges, or of the Grand Elected Knights Kadosh, now known as Knights of the White and Black Eagle.
The Presiding Officer in this Degree is called Thrice Illustrious Knight Grand Commander. In this Chapter there are neither decorations nor emblems, the drapes must be completely removed. The only fixture at the entrance to the Temple is the Mysterious Staircase which, on the occasion of an initiation, must remain covered until the moment in which the candidate has taken the Oath. The members must be dressed in black and wear white gloves. The Sash is a broad, watered scarlet ribbon worn from right to left. On the front is embroidered in gold, a winged-globe and, under it, a scarab, under which is a brilliant butterfly; all are symbols of immortality. The jewel is the Phoenician letter 'A' (Aleph), suspended from a short collar of narrow, watered violet-colored ribbon. The apron is of white lambskin, lined with scarlet and bordered with light green. In the middle is painted a representation of an Arabic tent, in gold. On the light blue flap is a representation of a myrtle tree of violet color, also an emblem of immortality. The girdle is of light-green morroco leather, fringed below with gold, and edged with gold lace. From this belt are suspended the jewel of the preceding degree, a silver censer, and the jewel of this degree, the Phoenician letter Aleph. The noblest designation, Brother, is now vainly corrupted to Grand Elect Knight.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Princes of the Tabernacle are to labor incessantly for the glory of God, the honor of your country and the happiness of your brethren. In this degree a Mason must show evidence of compassion, piety and justice." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
25° Knight of the Brazen Serpent (also Master of Achievement)
The Lodge, in this degree, is styled the Council. The presiding officer represents Moses, and, is styled "Most Puissant Leader." The Senior Warden, sitting in the West, on the left, represents Joshua, the son of Nun; and the Junior Warden, in the West, on the right, represents Caleb, the son of Zephaniah. The former is styled "Most Valiant Captain of the Host," and the latter, "Illustrious Chief Prince of the Tribes." The Orator sits on the right of the Most Puissant Leader, represents Eleazar, the son of Aaron, and is styled "Most Excellent High-Priest." He wears the full dress of the High-Priest, as prescribed in the two preceding degrees.
The apron is white, lined and edged with black; the white side spotted with golden stars, and the black side with silver ones. Those on the white side represent, by their positions and distances, the Pleiades, the Hyades, Orion, and Capella. Those on the black side represent the stars of Perseus, Scorpio, and Ursa Major. In the middle of the white side is a triangle in a glory, in the center of which is the name of Deity in Phoenician characters. On the flap is a serpent in a circle, with his tail in his mouth; and in the circle so formed a scarab or beetle. Over this is a star of gold, with the letter 'R' (for Regulus) over it; on the right side of the apron another, with the letter 'A' over it; and at the bottom of the apron another, with the letter 'F' over it. The Sash is a crimson ribbon, on which are embroidered the words, one under the other: OSIRIS, AHURA, OSARSIPH, MOSES. Under them, a bull, with a disk, surmounted by a crescent between his horns. This is worn from left to right; and across it, from right to left, is worn a broad, white, watered Sash, on which are the words ISIS and CERES over a dog's head and a crescent. On the right breast, on the left breast, and at the crossing of these orders is a star of gold. Under that on the right breast is the letter 'A' (for Antares); and under that, at the crossing of the Sashes, the letter 'F' (for Fomalhaut). On the crimson Sash is the word GEBURAH (valor) in Hebrew; and on the white, the Hebrew word AUN (force or strength). The jewel is a Tau cross, of gold, surmounted by a circle - the Crux Ansata of Egypt - round which a serpent is entwined. On the upright part of the cross is engraved the Hebrew word meaning 'he has suffered' or 'been wounded', and on the arms the Hebrew word given in the Bible for the brazen serpent, "Nehushtan.""
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "To fulfill one's destiny and to re-create oneself by reformation, repentance and enlarging one's knowledge. This degree tackles the concept of the pure, celestial, eternal soul of man." The Apprentice, as a Just and Upright Man, had already knowledge of these lessons before his Initiation, and more so after he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree, with all its infantile theatrics and nonsense, is useless to him, and superfluous.]
26° Prince of Mercy, or Scottish Trinitarian (also Friend and Brother Eternal)
The Lodge, styled a Chapter, is hung in green supported by nine columns alternately white and red, upon each of which is a chandelier holding nine lights. The throne in the East is covered by a canopy of green, red, and white, and above it is the triple-interlaced triangle, with two white and one black triangles, and a YOD at its center. Instead of a gavel, the presiding officer uses an arrow, the plume of which is red on one side and green on the other. The presiding officer is called Most Excellent Chief Prince, the other officers are called by various similar pompous titles. The Chief Prince wears a tricolored Tunic, green, white, and red, and a crown with nine points. The other members wear white Tunic and a Sash which is a broad tricolored ribbon, green, white, and red, worn from right to left. The apron is scarlet, bordered in white, with a green triangle (point-up) in the center. In the triangle are the initials of Force, Wisdom, and Harmony, and a flaming heart of gold with the initials I.H.S.. The jewel is gold, and is the same triangle suspended by a purple ribbon. The noblest appellation, Brother has survived here all the pomposity.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Princes of Mercy or Scottish Trinitarian are to practice forgiveness and mercy; tolerance; to be devoted to the teaching of the principles of Masonry." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
27° Knight of the Sun, or Prince Adept (also Knight of Jerusalem, also Commander of the Temple)
The Bodies of this degree are styled Chapters. The hangings are scarlet, with black columns at intervals, on each of which is an arm or branch holding a light. The hangings and columns are so arranged as to make the shape of the chapter a circle. The presiding officer of the chapter is styled Commander in Chief with the title of Eminent. The apron is of pure white lambskin and has no edging or pattern except the interlaced pentagram, which is traced in the middle in vermilion. There are three jewels. The presiding officer wears a jewel that is a representation of the sun in gold, suspended by a chain of gold and worn around the neck. The reverse is a hemisphere of gold showing the northern half of the ecliptic and a zodiac, with the signs from Taurus to Libra inclusive. The other officers wear a jewel composed of a simple seven-pointed star of gold. The remaining members of the council wear a jewel that is a gold five-pointed star, (only the jewel of the degree is shown in this illustration). The Collar is a broad white watered ribbon. On the right side is painted an eye of gold, a symbol of the sun or of the Deity. The noblest appellation, Brother is now polluted by the chivalrous title: Brother Knight.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Knights of the Sun or Princes Adept are to be a lover of wisdom and to be faithful to the promises made within Masonry. This lesson of this degree teaches us to scorn selfishness, and to uphold the knightly virtues of charity, truth etc." The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
28° Knight of the Sun, or Prince Adept (also Knight of Jerusalem, or Commander of the Temple)
The Bodies of this degree are styled Councils, and each Council consists of not less than ten members. The hangings of the Council-Chamber should represent the open country: mountains, plains, forests and fields. The chamber is lit by a single light in the shape of a globe, suspended in the South, representing the Sun. In the East is suspended a transparency displaying the sign of the Macrocosm or the Seal of Solomon, the interlaced triangles, one white and the other two black. Above the transparency in the East are, in gilded letters, the words Lux e Tenebris.
In the West is suspended a transparency displaying the sign of the Microcosm or Pentagram, traced in vermillion on white, and with a single point upward. In the South is a painting of the Temple of Solomon. At the entrance is represented a man holding in his arm a white lamb, between the columns Jachin and Boaz. The presiding officer is called Father Adam. He sits in the East, clothed in a saffron-colored robe, the head covered; holding in his right hand a gilded scepter with a globe on top. His jewel is a golden sun suspended by a golden chain and worn around his neck. The reverse side of the jewel is a golden hemisphere showing the northern half of the ecliptic and zodiac, with the signs from Taurus to Libra inclusive. There is only one Warden, called Brother Truth. He wears a rose-colored robe and holds a white rod with a golden eye at the top. His jewel is like that of Father Adam. The noblest appellation, Brother is now polluted by the chivalrous title: Knight of the Sun.
The Apron is square, of scarlet-colored lambskin, lined and edged with black. The flap is white, and on it is a Teutonic Cross. The collar is a white, watered ribbon edged with red, from which the jewel is suspended. The jewel is the Teutonic Cross shown on the apron. There are also gloves and a scarf among the clothing of a Knight Commander of the Temple. The colors of these, as well as of the apron and collar, are white, red and black.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "Masonry is practical and requires its members to be actively involved in life. Virtue and duty have been the same in all times. The Duties of a Knight of the Sun, or Prince Adept are: "devotion to truth, honor, loyalty, justice and humanity." [The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. This degree too is superfluous.]
29° Grand Scottish Knight of Saint Andrew
The Bodies of this degree are styled Chapters. Two apartments are necessary, besides the preparation room. The first apartment is hung crimson, supported by white columns; the seats of the Master and Wardens are also crimson, with gilt ornaments, while those of the other knights are blue. In each corner of the chapter-room is a St. Andrew's Cross; and nine lights, by three, are on the East, West, and South sides of the altar. During the reception, this hall represents the court of Saladin, the great Sultan of Egypt and Syria. No Masonic emblems appear, no Aprons. … The second apartment is arranged with accommodation for washing, and contains a table, on which are cross-hilted swords, and a Bible or Koran. The presiding officer is called Venerable Grand Master, the other officers bear the same titles as in a (Blue) Craft Lodge. The Knights are dressed in crimson robes, with a deep scarlet Sash around their waist, a green Collar edged with crimson about the neck, to which the Jewel is suspended, and a white Sash trimmed with gold fringes, worn from the left shoulder to the right hip. On the left breast is the large white Cross of St. Andrew. The Jewel is a golden St. Andrew's Cross with a large emerald in the center, surmounted with the helmet of a knight, and with a thistle of gold between the arms at the bottom. It is worn suspended from the collar. The banner of the Order is a green St. Andrews Cross on a white field fringed with gold. At the end of each arm of the cross is one of the four Hebrew letters that form the Ineffable Name of Deity. Above the cross is a circle of five stars with a thistle in the center, etc. … All this just to tell a fantastic tale about the Crusaders and the Turks …
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Knights of St. Andrew is taught that Ideas and institutions wax and wane in the great cycle of time, and is but change; and his duties are Reverence and obey the Deity. Serve the truth. Protect virtue and innocence. Defend the people against tyranny." [The Apprentice was already taught these lessons at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
30° Knight Kadosh, or Knight of the White and Black Eagle also Grand Inspector etc.
The Bodies of this degree are called Chapters. The main Hall is decorated with red and black columns. The Throne is in the East and surmounted by a crowned double-headed Eagle holding a Poniard in its claws. A drapery of white and black curtains, strewed with red crosses, descends between the wings of the Eagle to form a pavilion, etc. … The presiding officer is called Grand Commander, the other officers are all called Grand something …. The Knights Kadosh wear a white Tunic in the shape of a Dalmatica, with large sleeves, reaching to the knees, bordered with black, and having on the left breast a red Latin Cross, and a black mantle reaching midway between the knee and the ankle, edged with red, and having on the left breast a red Latin Cross, … a wide-brimmed hat of black felt with a plume … a knight's collarette … a black leather belt with a true Teutonic Cross, … Closely-fitting pantaloons in white cassimere worn over yellow morocco boots, … and gold spurs, a sword. ….
The Sash is a black watered silk ribbon, four or five inches wide, edged with narrow silver lace and worn across the body, from left to right. The letters 'K' and 'H' are embroidered in scarlet silk on the front part of the sash. Also embroidered on the sash are two Teutonic crosses and a double headed eagle, his wings extended, holding a poniard in his claws. The two heads and the blade of the poniard are of gold. The handle of the poniard is oval, one-half of it white and the other black. The jewel is a double-headed silver eagle, with wings spread, resting upon a golden Teutonic Cross enameled with red. — The noblest appellation, Brother is now degraded to Sir Knight …
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "The Mason (here called Knight) must arm himself with faith in God, love toward his fellow men and knowledge. His Duties are to labor unceasingly for the good of mankind. The Apprentice, as a Just and Upright Man, had already knowledge of these lessons before his Initiation, and more so after he was made a Fellowcraft. [This degree, with all its infantile theatrics and nonsense, is useless to him, and superfluous.]
Consistory
The Consistory Degrees are very different from each other in form and content. The 31° reveals the dynamic relationship that has existed for centuries between human law as a means of achieving justice, and divine justice as an ideal. The 32° reviews the degrees of the Lodge of Perfection, the Chapter of Rose Croix, and the Council of Kadosh.
31° [Grand] Inspector Inquisitor [Commander], also Knight Aspirant
In this degree the apprentice learns prayerful self-examination. The mistakes today should not be committed tomorrow. Simply, the daily look at oneself to learn to live with the future. The Assembly in this degree is called Supreme Tribunal. The presiding officer is called Most Perfect President; the Wardens are called Counsellors. The hangings are white. No apron is worn in the Supreme Tribunal, but the traditional apron displayed is of pure white lambskin with a Teutonic Cross of black and silver embroidered upon the flap. The jewel is a silver Teutonic cross. The jewel is suspended from a white collar, with a gold triangle with a "31" inside it.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lesson: "The Apprentice will learn prayerful self-examination, so that the mistakes today should not be committed tomorrow. Simply put, the daily self-examination to learn to live with the future. [This lesson was already taught to the Apprentice at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. — This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous, and useless.]
32° Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret, also Master of the Royal Secret
The lessons taught in this degree are that genuine brotherhood requires mutual regard, opinion, esteem and charity. We always look for the good in all, make allowances for others' shortcomings. We trust the Supreme Architect to lead us to friendship, morality, and brotherly love [Orient of Virginia. The Assembly in this degree is called Supreme Council. The presiding officer is called Illustrious Commander-in-Chief, the two Wardens are all called Lieutenant Commanders. The noblest appellation, Brother is now degraded to Sublime Prince of the Royal Secret.
The hangings are black, strewed with silver tears, skeletons, human skulls, and crossbones. The throne in the East, ascended by seven steps, is draped in black satins, like the hangings, but strewn with flames without tears. The apron worn in this degree is white, lined in black, with a double-headed eagle and a plan of the Camp of the Princes. The jewel worn is a golden Teutonic Cross. In the center are the letters XXXII [32], surrounded by a green wreath. The cap of the Master of the Royal Secret is black silk with a black band trimmed in gold. In the center front is a double-headed eagle emblem with a rayed equilateral triangle above in gold. The triangle is red, has 32° in its center, and is trimmed with gold. The Sash is worn from the right shoulder to the left hip and is four inches wide, doubled, black-edged with white on the principal side and crimson on the other. At the point of the principal side is embroidered a red Teutonic cross with a silver, double-headed eagle superimposed. On the crimson side, at the height of the heart, is embroidered a Teutonic cross in black.
The justification for the existence of this degree is claimed to be its lessons: "that genuine brotherhood requires mutual regard, opinion, esteem and charity. We always look for the good in all, make allowances for others' shortcomings. We trust the Supreme Architect to lead us to friendship, morality, and brotherly love. [These lessons were already taught to the Apprentice at his Initiation, and more so when he was made a Fellowcraft. — This degree is fruitlessly vain, and superfluous.]
33° [Sovereign Grand] Inspector General, also Master of the Royal Secret
All Scottish Rite jurisdictions nominate a select few members to receive the 33rd Degree, Inspector General Honorary, in recognition of outstanding service to the Rite, or in public life, to the principles taught in the degrees. In the Southern Jurisdiction, the Supreme Council chooses 33rd-degree members from among those who have previously received the rank and decoration of Knight Commander Court of Honor. The Thirty-third Degree may not be requested, and if requested must be refused. The Degree is granted solely out of recognition for outstanding services. The last and final degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Freemasonry is called "Sovereign Grand Inspector General." This degree is generally defined as the administrative degree of the order. The meetings are called Supreme Councils.
The lodge is hung with purple curtains, on which are painted skeletons, death heads, cross, bones, etc. There are nine officers in this degree. The presiding officer is called the "Most Puissant Sovereign Grand Commander."
After the lodge is declared opened, the M.P.S.G. Commander orders the Grand Marshal to prepare the candidate (if there is one) for initiation by divesting him of his shoes and hat, clothing him in a black robe, giving him a lighted candle in his right hand, tie a black robe around his neck, and lead him (like a helpless animal) to the door of the council chamber. Then the show begins and it is said to the candidate, once he enters the council chamber and he is received by the image of a skeleton, "Your head is uncovered, your feet bare to remind you that you must ever be prepared to assist brethren in need, and free them from the yoke of oppression, which is symbolized by the black cable-tow around your neck." We also learn in this degree that the object of all the degrees in Masonry is light [knowledge], wisdom, tolerance, freedom, and courage. It is also revealed in this degree that all the ceremonies of Masonry are but "faithful" representations of the real life.
The jewel is a black double-headed eagle with golden beaks and claws, holding in the latter a gold sword, and crowned with the golden crown of Prussia. A red Teutonic cross, with the words ORDO AB CHAO and DEUS MEUMQUE JUS inscribed in the center, is affixed to the left side of the breast.
The Apron is of white silk variously decorated with the emblems of the degree and trimmed in gold. So is also the collar, with the number 33 surrounded by rays etc., and also is the Sash. Many Caps are used in this degree, according to the various ranks: Inspector General Honorary, Grand Cross of the Court of Honor, Deputy of the Supreme Council, 33° (SJ), Sovereign Grand Inspector General of the Supreme Council, 33°(SJ), Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council, 33°(SJ), 50-years Member, etc., etc., etc.
"Second only to the Masonic apron, the Scottish Rite cap is undoubtedly one of Freemasonry's most distinctive items of regalia. But, while we as speculative Masons inherit the Masonic apron from the operative craft of the medieval stonemasons, the Scottish Rite cap comes down to us from the medieval chivalric tradition. When the Master Mason receives the Thirty-Second Degree and dons the black satin headgear of the Scottish Rite, the Masonic craftsman is elevated to an order of Masonic knighthood.
The Scottish Rite cap is a vestige of the dress regalia more commonly associated with orders of European knighthood. Aside from their distinctive caps, the full-dress regalia of the various orders includes other accouterments such as sashes or cordons, swords, and sword belts, cloaks or capes, and jewels, badges, and other decorations denoting their rank or office within their respective orders. The two separate traditions of the stonemason's craft and medieval knighthood have become so intimately intertwined in the rich pageantry of our Masonic ritual and regalia that most Masons never stop to consider how or when the two became woven together. Today, most Masonic historians look to the mid-1700s for the introduction of the chivalric tradition in Freemasonry. Masonic rituals published prior to that are concerned purely with the legends and implements of the operative Mason. But, beginning in the mid-1740s, additional Degrees appeared that conferred orders of knighthood upon enthusiastic Brethren eager to add to and to embroider, if you will, their Masonic experience.
The newly made Scottish Rite Mason may at first be confused by the several different colored caps he will encounter at the first few meetings he attends. The following is a listing of the various versions of the Scottish Rite cap:
- The black silk cap, adorned with the recognizable Scottish Rite double-headed eagle, is the cap of a Master of the Royal Secret of the 32nd Degree.
- The blue cap, decorated in front with a gold number 50 surrounded by a wreath is the cap of a Fifty-Year Scottish Rite Mason.
- The red cap, emblazoned with the red and gold cross of a Knight Commander, designates that the wearer is a 32nd Degree Mason who has been invested with the "rank and decoration" of Knight Commander of the Court of Honor, usually abbreviated K.C.C.H.
- The white cap indicates that the wearer has received the 33rd Degree, Inspector General. It bears the red and gold Patriarchal Cross of the Degree. The white cap also indicates that, although he is a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, he is not a member of the Supreme Council and is, therefore, designated an "Inspector General Honorary." Some make the mistake of referring to this as an "Honorary 33rd." The Degree is that of the 33rd Degree. The name of the Degree is "Inspector General," and the title is that of "Inspector General Honorary."
- A white silk cap surrounded by a band of dark blue velvet bordered in gold is the cap of the Grand Cross of the Court of Honor. The front of the cap is adorned with the gold Teutonic cross of the Grand Cross. This honor, like that of Knight Commander, is awarded at the Biennial Sessions of the Supreme Council.
- A white 33rd Degree cap that is surrounded by a band of red velvet bordered in gold is the cap of a Deputy of the Supreme Council. It indicates that the wearer has been deputized by the Supreme Council to govern the operation of the Rite in his Orient (state or territory).
- The purple cap is that of a Sovereign Grand Inspector General, or S.G.I.G. It is surrounded by a band of purple velvet, bordered in gold and decorated with a gold vine of laurel leaves and berries. The front of the cap is emblazoned with a purple and gold Patriarchal Cross with crosslets. The wearer of this cap is the head of the Rite in his Orient and is an Active Member of the Supreme Council.
- The violet cap is reserved for the Sovereign Grand Commander. It is surrounded by a band of violet velvet and, like the purple cap, is also decorated with a gold vine of laurel leaves and berries. The front of this cap is emblazoned with the Salem Cross with crosslets." [Orient of Virginia]
The justification for the existence of this [philosophical] degree is claimed to be the Honors bestowed upon selected Masons in recognition of outstanding service to the Rite. Each one of these members, recognized as a Just and Upright Man before his initiation into Freemasonry, and addressed thereafter with the noblest of titles — Brother — is now called Sovereign Grand Inspector General — in antithesis to the lessons imparted to the Entered Apprentice, and the symbolism of the Level, and of the Rough and Perfect Ashlars. Instead of striking off all vanities, superfluities, vices and distractions in his life which may lead him astray, away from what is truly important to living a meaningful and satisfying life, all these "Higher Degrees" with their glitter and bombastic titles, with their fantastic tales, with their childish plays, blind and corrupt the purified Apprentice on his way to perfection. All these Higher Degrees have made of Freemasonry nothing more than a parochial system enjoining elementary morality, performing perfunctory and insignificant rites, and serving as an agreeable accessory to social life. And there is no redemption.
Joking aside, — the Russian Military has issued a new regulation: no more than 10 medals can be worn on parade uniforms … Let's follow their example, and go further: Let us invest our Apprentice with all the glitter, the sashes, the collars, the gold trims, the jewels and the medals of our Higher Degrees; let us teach him then to knock off all that is impure, vain, useless, distractive, or superfluous in his life, which may lead him astray, away from what is truly important to living a meaningful and satisfying life; let us bestow upon him, at his initiation, all the bombastic titles of the Higher Degrees combined, and, as he progresses toward the Light and in the Knowledge of our science, let us gradually remove one by one all these marks of vanity and superfluity, symbolically polishing and perfecting the Rough Ashlar into the Perfect Ashlar, into its perfected, simple beauty we are told to behold and to moralize on, returning to him in the end the simple a pure White Apron and, finally, addressing him with the noblest of titles: Brother, and nothing more. We can still teach the Apprentice the Higher Degrees' lessons; we can still tell him the Higher Degrees' fantastic tales for the sake of allegorical instruction. But we don't need all those high degrees and appendant bodies: the (Blue) Lodge Room is as good and sufficient a place to carry out these instructions; and a better place, — if we do away with all those clownish theatrical performances.
"Before I conclude, my brethren, let me portray to you the ideal of a Freemason."
"If you see a man who quietly and modestly moves in the sphere of his life; who without blemish fulfills his duties as a man, a subject, a husband and a father; who is pious without hypocrisy, benevolent without ostentation, and who aids his fellow-men without self-interest; whose heart beats warm for friendship, whose serene mind is open for licensed pleasures, who in vicissitudes does not despair, nor in fortune will be presumptuous, and who will be resolute in the hour of danger.
"The man who is free from superstition and free from infidelity; who, in nature, sees the finger of the Eternal Master; who feels and adores the higher destination of man; to whom Faith, Hope and Charity are not mere words without any meaning; to whom property, nay, even life, is not too dear for the protection of innocence and virtue, and for the defense of truth [not tales].
"The man who towards himself is a severe judge, but who is tolerant with the debilities of his neighbor; who endeavors to oppose errors without arrogance, and to propagate intelligence without precipitation, who properly understands to estimate and to employ his means; who honors virtue though it be in the most humble garment, who does not favor vice though it be clothed in purple; and who administers justice to merit, whether dwelling in palaces or cottages.
"The man who, without courting applause, is loved by all noble-minded men, respected by his superiors, and revered by his subordinates; the man who never proclaims what he has done, will do, can do, but where the need is, will lay hold with dispassionate courage, circumspect resolution, indefatigable exertion, and a rare power of the mind, and who will not cease until he has accomplished his work, but who then, without pretension, will retire into the multitude, because he did the good act, not for himself, but for the cause of good.
"If you, my brethren, meet such a man, you will see the personification of brotherly love, relief and truth; ad you will have found the ideal of a Freemason." (Ceremony of Installation & Investiture of Officers of a Lodge, Authorized by the Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M. of Canada in the Province of Ontario, 2010, pp. 86-90).
Therefore, all that these High or Higher Degrees have taught our Just and Upright Man, — the Ideal of a Freemason, — amounts to useless child's play, to vanity, to pretension; totally antithetical to the basic lessons imparted to the Entered Apprentice at his initiation by the symbolic meaning of the Rough and Perfect Ashlars.
Please note: the boldface emphasis is mine.
March 11, 2022
