Freemasonry

Fiat Lux

Writings of Masonic Interest

Thomas W. Jackson's Speech At The Philalethes Annual Feast

Excellent article detailing the problems facing The Fraternity here in the US and in many places around the world. No wonder: The grand masters meet and "share" ideas. There is this need to "manage" the Craft, forgetting what the purpose of Masonry is. This is not the first institution to be ruined by the pursuit of money, even though for noble causes. Jackson is far more eloquent than I. An absolute MUST read if you are a Mason. Thomas W. Jackson is the Right Worshipful Grand Secretary (RWGS) of The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Jackson is highly regarded worldwide as a man and a mason. His title is less symbolic, when applied to his life, than it is when used by others. Of course, that is my opinion.

As It Was It Still Is!

Oh boy, another great article telling it like it is. I hope somebody is listening. This article was written thirty-six years ago, and you'd think it was written this morning.

Problems? "What Problems"

A clearly written article on the problems facing Craft Masonry today, which are different from those of the Appendant and Concordant Bodies, according to this author. Worth your time to read carefully.

How To Attract Membership From A Decadent Society?

Article written by the Illustrious Warren F. Schueler, Sr. about the state of our society and membership decline of Freemasonry.

The Unpleasantness in England

What's all the hubbub in the UK about Freemasonry? Anti-Masonry at its ugliest. When will humanity stop repeating the mistakes of the past?

Masonry and Citizenship

A short quote from Joseph Fort Newton on the subject. Should be quite informative for non-Masons seeking to understand Masonry and its relationship with citizenship.

Masonic Myths and Falsehoods

A clear explanation of the commonly accepted myths and falsehoods about Freemasonry written by Brother Nelson King, editor of The Philalethes Society. Some interesting reading about the Catholic Church, the Jesuits and Freemasonry in the Vatican and Costa Rica. PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A LINK. YOU'LL HAVE TO USE YOUR "BACK BUTTON" TO RETURN TO THIS SITE.

Destructive Diversions

An article appearing in the August 1999 edition of "The Philalethes." It is an interesting piece to which I do not totally subscribe; however, it does demonstrate the diverse thoughts on a complex issue: the problem(s) faced by Freemasonry today.

The Palace

A Masonic poem by Brother Rudyard Kipling.

Things Masonic

The Jewels Of Pennsylvania Masonry - The jewel or isignia worn by each elected lodge officer is shown. There are many other, appointed officers, but their jewels are not shown. However, I have included the Distrct Deputy Grand Master's jewel because he is the highest appointed Grand Lodge officer. This page is completely redesigned and loads very quickly.

The Middle Chamber - An excellent lecture on the significance of the Middle Chamber Lecture in the Fellow Craft Degree. Very informative.

Good Masonic Books

The Secret Teachings of All Ages: An Encyclopedic Outline of Masonic, Hermetic, Qabbalistic, Rosicrucian Symbolic Philosophy - This contemporary classic of ancient wisdom concentrates a large amount of information in one volume. World-reknowned expert Manly P. Hall explores the inner sanctuaries of diverse religious traditions, revealing unifying themes that lie beneath ancient mythology, philosophy, and religion, bringing to light the arcane teachings held sacred by many ancient and present day cultures. One of the greatest short-cuts to understanding the mysteries man has held close since the dawn of time. A must read for the serious student. A bit expensive, but this is the cheapest volume, about $50.00. Prices can go as high as $500.00. It comes in many sizes and bindings.

The Lost Keys of Freemasonry - Also known as The Secret of Hiram Abiff, this text was written for the Mason and non-Mason alike. Mr. Hall, himself an honorary 33 Mason, reveals the profounder aspects of this ancient Fraternity which has been a source of inspiration to so many individuals through the centuries. The basic symbolism of the three degrees of the Blue Lodge is explained and a chapter entitled "The Egyptian Initiate" is especially enlightening. Illustrated by J. Augustus Knapp. Non-Masons will not discover the exact ritual for the three degrees; they will understand the hidden meanings.

Born In Blood: The Lost Secrets Of Freemasonry - For history buffs, curious Catholics, mystery lovers, and Freemasons everywhere comes the first comprehensive and objective book in more than 100 years on the world's largest fraternal organization. John Robinson traces the history of Freemasonry from the Knights Templar of The Crusades. (Amazon.com's synopsis.) Intriguing theory; will not disappoint. (My evaluation.)

Who Was Hiram Abiff? - Scarce! Contents: Hirams in the Bible; Adonis; Astarte; The Dying Gods in other Legends; Solomon's Parts in Adonis Rites; High Grades of Tammuz; Syrian Rites; Essenes; Templars and the Holy Graal; Queen of Sheba; Annual Slaying of Priest Kings; Initiation Ceremonies; Symbolism; Sons of the Widow; Why Hiram represents Adonis and not Osiris; The Historical Descent of the Adonis Cult and Its Survival. Not for the feint of heart; it is not an easy read, but it is worth it. If Amazon.com can not secure a copy for you, try Masonic catalogs, like Macoy. Amazon will be cheaper and probably take the same amount of time to ship, on this particular title; otherwise, Amazon is always cheaper and quicker.

Freemasonry: Its Hidden Meaning - A great book for Masons and non-Masons alike, by George Steinmetz.

Ancient Mystic Rites - Want to know about all the symbolic connections in the so-called "mystic rites?" This book will do it. This should shine a light on the origin/lineage of Freemasonry's system of symbolism/morality.

Astrology And Religion Among The Greeks And Romans - Contents: The Chaldeans; Sketch of the History of Chaldean Astronomy & Its Influence Upon the Religion; Babylonia & Greece; Dissemination in the West; Power of Astrology; Hermetic Books; Israel & Astrology; The Oriental Mysteries; Theology; Sacred Numbers; The Sun as the Highest God; Development of Solar Theology; Astral Mysticism Ethics & Cult; Mystic Element in Astral Religion; Cosmic Emotion; Eschatology; Astral Mysticism as a Preparation for the Future Life; Principal Doctrines; Magic Processes. (Amazon.com synopsis) It's not that bad...Really! A good book detailing astrology's role in the transition from polytheism to monotheism.

The Royal Arch: Its Hidden Meaning - Just as the title implies, a clear, complete and concise explanation of the 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th Degrees of Freemasonry by George Steinmetz.

Key To Freemasonry's Growth - Great book for future and crrent lodge officers. Easy read, good advice by Allen E. Roberts.

A Pilgrim's Path - The author of "Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry" describes the history and principles of the world's largest "secret society", and then takes on those who have condemned it, refuting their fabrications and misstatements. An eye-opening book for those interested in the mysteries of Freemasonry--and disturbed by the rise of the Fundamentalist Right. Check out the Masonic symbolism in the Bosch painting, "The Wayfarer", on the cover. By the way, have you ever seen so much information about a "secret society?"

This is just a small subset of the books you can read to gain insight into Freemasonry. They aren't many. They are inexpensive, with the exception of the first book which, in my opinion, is a must have. They are the quickest way that I know to Useful Knowledge on this particular subject. I'll be adding more, later. By the way, if you buy any of these books from Amazon by using the links on this page, you get a good deal, and I get a 15% commission.

Hot Masonic Links - Follow these links to gain more light.

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