Product Description
This is an OCR edition without illustrations or index. It may have numerous typos or missing text. However, purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original rare book from GeneralBooksClub.com. You can also preview excerpts from the book there. Purchasers are also entitled to a free trial membership in the General Books Club where they can select from more than a million books without charge. Volume: 5; Original Published by: The Masonic history company in 1906 in 334 pages; Subjects: Freemasonry; Body, Mind & Spirit / Spirituality / General; Social Science / Freemasonry; ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

A Serious Work for Scholars of Freemasonry
Mackey was a doctor, the son of a wealthy family in Charleston, SC in the nineteenth century. He practiced medicine briefly, then dedicated himself to Masonic research. This work is only somewhat dated, given that Freemasonry is a relatively stable cultural and sociological phenomenon. Still, some historiographical, archival and archeological work accomplished since his day has corrected some of his views (these defects are less found in his Encyclopedia).

The value of his work lies in the fact that he explores, in forty-four chapters, numerous myths about the origins of Freemasonry, concluding at the end of each chapter that no single theory is sufficient to explain the history of the Royal Art or that many of the theories are pure fabrications. He does not make any definite conclusions about its ultimate origins, leaving the reader to agree with professor Frances Yates who stated in her book The Rosicrucian Enlightenment (Routledge Classics) that Freemsonry's origins are a "mystery wrapped in an enigma".

History Book? Nope.
If you are looking for a history book, then you've come to the wrong place.Basically, it is a chapter by chapter evaluation of the myth of where Freemasonry came from along with Mackey stating at the end, this is not correct.This goes on for each chapter and by the 3rd or 4th, you can just turn to the last page in the chapter and read the synopsis and you will get the gist of the entire chapter.

Masonic Reference
Excellent for the new or Master Mason,for use at home or in the Lodge

Worth reading
This is a wonderfully written book. May be difficult for some readers as some parts are in Old English. Keep in mind that Mackey is discussing 'legend' not known fact.

Values and Beliefs, Not History
This is a beautiful book, and wonderful- if you recognize it as what it is.It is a collection of myths about the origins of Freemasonry, not a factual history.It does what all of our myths of our origins do- illustrate the principles and ideas we believe in.Many of the legends presented within are, in fact, unverifiable- such as the one that posits that Masonic secrets were hidden within pillars that survived the biblical Great Flood.

In fact, it is this legendary quality that makes this book so useful.Rather than an interesting historical review, this book can serve as a reference guide, both to our beliefs and our ideals. ... Read more

Product Description
Full Ritual and Secret Work of the Three Blue Lodge Degrees Profusely Illustrated. The Webb Work by a Past High Priest. Over One Hundred Illustrations. Several of them full page, give a pictorial representation of the Lodge Room and Chapter, ceremonies of the degrees, dress of candidates, signs, grips, etc. A Historical Sketch of the Institution and a Critical Analysis of the Character of Each Degree by President J. Blanchard of Wheaton College. Monitorial Quotations and nearly Four Hundred Notes from Standard Masonic Authorities, confirm the truthfulness of this Exposition and Show the character of Masonic Teaching and Doctrine. ... Read more

Product Description
An offering of the African-American Freemason's viewpoint. This book reviews the history of the Prince Hall Freemasonry and provides insight to its function. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Fast
This book is amazing and it came well before the expected delivery date.
Excellent

Good Foundation
I found this book to be packed with great information and recommend it to be added to any PHA library.It not only gives good basic knowledge, but also includes study and research paths which lead into further light and understanding of our craft in modern aspects.

"Black Square and Compass" also shows the correlation and significance of PHA in association with modern black history.For example accomplishments of the Buffalo Soldiers and the network of the Underground Railroad. ... Read more

Product Description
This study aims for a deeper understanding of aspects of Western art by tracing the motifs and legends from Antiquity that have influenced Freemasonry, and explaining the significance of recurring themes. The latter are to be found even in the design of parks, gardens and cemeteries. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

best architectural history book I've read
Replete with illustrations, this is also one of the better books on masonry available.Masonry's history, so entertwined with that of the founding of the U.S. in philosophy and symbolism, should be a subject for all school children.Rather than focusing on closed doors, this respectful narrative opens to all the beautiful imagery of masonry and associated subjects.
Not limited to architectural discussions, Curl reviews the music and contemporary sets of The Magic Flute more comprehensibly than elsewhere, seen in a light of many arts (and cultures) at once.
This largely silent part of the history of western civilization is good reading for just about anyone wanting at once broader and more specific historical knowledge; it should be requisite for every student of architecture. ... Read more

Product Description
Many people are curious about the existence of secret societies which claim to hold arcane religious or esoteric knowledge and pass it down through the generations via selected adepts. Classic Masonic writers including William Preston, Robert Gould, JSM Ward, AE Waite and WL Wilmshurst have written about secret traditions connected to the Temple of Sion. Each has different ideas about how mystical knowledge came into Freemasonry. Some say that the Charter of Larmenius reveals an underground line of Knight Templar Grand Masters who survived down to the nineteenth century. All agree there is a Secret Lodge or House of Adepts who continue to teach 'true' knowledge of the ancient mysteries and that The Craft transmits beliefs linked to the Earls of Rosslyn, the Knights Templar, and Lodge Mother Kilwinning. Masonic expert Robert Lomas has collected together this thread of belief from old Masonic writers and rewritten it in modern English to make the ideas accessible to modern readers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

"We have secrets,they are figurative signs and secret words...".

I have always been interested in the Knights Templar and also what became of them and whether there are any societies today that are descended from them.If you read this book to find some hidden secrets;I doubt you'll find any. However; this book is worthwhile reaing if you are interested in the historical connection of the Masons of ancient times,through the Middle Ages to the present Freemasons.
The author makes an attemppt to answer these questions by using the writings of 5 major historians ,who were Masons themselves,to present their views.These 5 writers all conclude that Freemasonry has roots that preceed by many centuries ,the date of 1717 that is accepted as the date that Freemasonry was founded inLondon. While all these 5 vary in one way or another,the reader will be convinced that the roots go back much further. Also ,the house journal "Quatuor Coronati", the self professed "Premier" lodge of research, rejects the writings and research of these people;and continue to hold to the date of 1717 as the date of founding and Freemasonry has no direct connections to Masons of the past,Templars,or any of the multitude of societies from the Middle Ages or Ancient History.
If you think settling the question,is simple;you are in for one big surprise,when you see the number of societies and organizations involved.The complexity of searching lineage of Royal Families,Politics or even Christianity is relatively simple by comparison.What we are dealing with here goes back past the time of the Druids,Ancient Egypt and the dawn of Civilization, It seem to me,after reading this book;that to say that Freemasonry has no roots past its founding in 1717 would be akin to accepting that The Mormons have no roots to God before Joseph Smith in 1830.
In summary;I found the book very interesting,but that does not preclude the idea that ,it probably leaves more questions than answers and little in the way of revealed secrets.
In the Middle Ages,there were a multitude of secret societies.The Masons seemed to be as much an organization that dwelt with the building trades;much like our present day Professional societies of Architects,Engineers and Tradesmen,Unions etc; where skills were developed and work was controlled and participants were looked after.
In any orgnization involving people,control,beliefs,power,money etc ;it never seems to take long for rifts,splits,power and beliefs,to clash.It seem this was true in the history of "The Masons" as it was anywhere else. ... Read more

Product Description
1928. Answers Questions Relating to: The Mason and the Lodge; The Blue Degrees; Temple of King Solomon; Lost Word; Legend of Hiram; Sacred Law; Religion of Freemasonry; Sacred Numbers; How Did it all Begin?; Masonic History Highlights; Masonry in the American Revolution; Freemasonry in the USA; Landmarks and Customs; Making Masons at Sight; Great Men who Were Masons; Women and Masonry; Negro Masonry; Freemasonry 'Round the World; Quaint and Curious Facts; Roman Catholic Church and Freemasonry. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Handy Lil Conversational Piece
I enjoyed this little book and had a hard time putting it down until I was done.Lots of little facts that I had not come across yet. Being a young Mason, I found it quite a nice read.The other brothers enjoyed it as well.Give it a try.

Interesting book
This book is very interesting. It helped me understand more about the fraternity. Being new to masonry I was looking for something to explain more about the history, lore , and ritual of the fraternity. I would recommend it to any mason. ... Read more

Product Description
The latest book from Robert Lomas, co-author of The Hiram Key and The Second Messiah. Freemasonry and the Birth of Modern Science continues the Freemasonry saga by exploring its roots in The Royal Society, a group dedicated to the pursuit of scientific study.

In a time when superstition and magic governed reason, the repressive dogma of Christian belief silenced many, and where a turbulent political and economical background dominated, these men forbade any discussion of religion at their meetings. Lomas claims that modern experimental science was born out of The Royal Society, which was secretly funded by The Invisible College, which is known today as Freemasonry. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Understanding the quest to understand
While Lomas's previous books have tended to stretch speculation almost to breaking point, this book is built on much firmer foundations.

Not long after Sir Francis Bacon wrote, around the year 1600, that knowledge (of Nature) is power (to help humanity), natural philosophers started taking up the quest for this knowledge. Mason-Scientists like Moray, Hooke, Desaguliers, and Franklin, led the way toward the collaborative and systematic form of research we take for granted as science and technology.

The investigation of Nature was a dangerous business in the early days. It was only natural that it developed in the bosom of the already secretive Freemasonry of the day. The "Invisible College" were not exclusively masons, but they certainly formed the backbone of the push toward the Enlightenment ideal. The aim was a society of greater freedom, tolerance, and equality, based on rationality, and supported by an understanding of natural forces. This endeavour has been more successful than any of them could have imagined.

We tend to think that the World was destined to develop the way it has, but things could have been much different. Civilisation can be fragile, and knowledge can be lost. Tyranny can prevail. We owe our modern comforts, security, and freedoms, such as they are, to the Freemasons and those they influenced around the World. The process continues. Where it goes from here is up to all of us.

This book, also published under the title "The Invisible College", brings some of the early and less publicly known history of the modern world into focus.

Science separated from Religion and Politics
I found this introduction into the world of Freemasonry an enjoyable tale.It is a recounting of the English Civil War and the Restoration of the throne after Oliver Cromwell the lord protector. I was not that familiar with this part of history except seeing the movie Cromwell with Richard Harris and not understanding all the factions so I thought it was quite fascinating.

It tells the story of men whom where on both sides of the conflict in the English Civil War but came together to try to build a scientific society where pure science was the goal and politics and religion were not involved.This began the free exchange of ideas and the idea and publication of scientific journals. This allowed the scientist in the society concentrate on experimentation and the others their monetary assets to fund the experiments instead of the government. The entire membership was interested in science and all tried to contribute their part.

The story has a tendency to be pedantic by the fact that he tells the tale through the lives of several of the first members and it becomes repetitive.I don't know if this is a mansonic thing because they have to do great deal of memorization.

The book goes into the effect of the society up to the present day. The appendix was quite good in the fact that it gave a much better idea of what freemasonry is all about.
Overall, I thought it was a good read for the interesting history and learning more about Freemasonry.I would like to learn more about the subject.

Originally (and aptly) titled "The Invisible College"
As a 32nd Scottish Rite Freemason and Master Mason with dual membership to two different lodges, I am constantly studying and absorbing the knowledge, ideals, work, and history of masonic body.This is one of my favorite books as it shows that Freemasonry, moreso than being a "club" "fraternal organization" etc. etc. as it's known today, was started out by a group of men who wanted to discuss random subjects on the basis of freedom without being persecuted by a religious body for it.Organized Religion is about control, the ealiest speculative Freemasons were about grand ideals of freedom and truth...to search for that knowledge within the "invisible college!"If you are interested in ancient esoteric work, or simply curious about freemasonry and how it came to be what it is today, I suggest you give this book a try!

I Never Realised this about Freemasony
Before readiung this book I was inclined to think that Freemasonry was just a slightly spooky charitable dinning club. Lomas's study of the formation of the Royal Society of London made me realise just how important a society freeemasonry is.
This book shows Sir Robert Moray. Charles I and II and Oliver Cromwell in a new light for me. I hadn't realised how Freemasonic ideas had influenced both the growth of science and of American democracy.

Keep up the good work Robert. I'll be looking out for your next book to learn more about Freemasonry

Okay on some things; less than rigorously logical on others
I have recommended this book to people who are interested in the latest attempt to popularize and combine some of the current theories on where Freemasonry came from and how it connected with the change-over from a feudal society to an industrial society. It has much information that other books suggest or imply, and it presents it in a very readable fashion. Of course, as with most of the books of this sort (from Holy Blood, Holy Grail, right on through other books by Lomas and Knight), the logic of their arguments is not very strong in places. They will sometimes state something is so without giving any basis for making such a claim, or suppose it is so and then later claim it was shown or proven to be so. They also fall into the trap of assuming any symbol has only one meaning, so if 2 groups use the same symbol or symbols, they must be somehow connected. In fact, history shows that certain symbols keep getting reborn and redefined by new groups, many of which are unaware of earlier groups (or even groups that are around at the same time but in different places) that used the same symbols. They are also less than forthcoming in stating that some of those men whom they claim to be Masons are believed by other researchers to not be Masons. Having stated my quibbles, I still believe this is an important book that should be read by all those interested in its subject (Freemasonry and Science) -- just remember, as with all things having to do with Freemasonry, there is no way to know the truth of much that is assumed or claimed, because there were no records of much of this. In other words, take it with a grain of salt, compare it to other books that you trust, and see what light it can shed on your search for truth.
... Read more

Product Description
One of the most beloved and respected Masonic educators provides a true course in Masonic education in this rare classic. This is an excellent Masonic education program for both the new and experienced Mason. In this small, easy to read book, Haywood offers explanations on Freemasonry's relationship with such profound topics as: democracy, liberty, human nature, education, ritual and symbolism, Masonic ethics, equality, Freemasonry and religion and much more. ... Read more

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Kessinger Publishing is the place to find hundreds of thousands of rare and hard-to-find books with something of interest for everyone! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Some valid information but interesting stuff in the end
I am just now finishing up this book, and I have been fairly pleased with it.I have been trying to understand more about the mason organization especially since my great grandfather was a high ranking mason, most of the preachers in my hometown are masons, and I have many friends who are masons or who have been asked to become masons.The first book that I read on the subject was a book by the name of Mysterious Monuments written by Texe Marrs and the second book was The New World Order by Epperson.Out of all of these books, I would probably recommend Finney's book the least.I believe if I had to do it over I would have started with Epperson's book even though the timeline that the cult leaders were presenting at that time failed it is still a very informative book, I believe I would follow it up with this book, and I would finish with Texe Marrs book (just because this book gives you signs to recognize the cultish beliefs that the other two books establish).This book focuses mainly on the so-called Christian freemasonry.Once you read this book though, you will find out that there is no such thing as Christian freemasonry because masons take oaths to cover up the crimes of other masonic brothers.We can all agree that this is a sin therefore unchristian.In addition to this, Finney brings up the fact that Christians are not supposed to take oaths especially oaths upon the penalty of death.This is a fact not emphasized in church much anymore but it used to be very important to the early christians in this nation.He focuses on this point for quite a while; however if you can get through this point repeated over and over, he will get to the universalist nature of the masonic cult.He will also cover how some of the higher ranks of freemasonry consider the church as the enemy.Marrs and Epperson take this point a little further to their belief that masons are actually a satanistic cult when you get to the higher levels.They really make a good point with solid evidence.I think it is good to read this book because Finney was a mason at one time.Also Finney was one of the leading preachers in the great awakening here in the United States.It is good to have a source with such credibility.This is not to knock the credibility of the other books because Texe Marrs is an author who has one of the highest registered I.Q. scores in our nation.Therefore, he is not an idiot.Finney and Marrs differ on a point of whether george washington was an active mason.George Washington denied this accusation in a personal letter that Finney reproduces in his book; however, George did admit that he had attended a few meetings throughout his lifetime.The influx of the illuminati (which George Washington feared) into freemasonry has really warped masonry over the past two centuries; however, they are a very big part of freemasonry.They are some of the main leaders of freemasonry currently so I say that the illuminati and freemasonry should now be considered one and the same.Well, I think this lets you get the point of the book.I think it is an important read in a Christian's searching of what exactly is the true nature of freemasonry. ... Read more

Product Description
My object is here to instruct Masons as well as others, and not to give them offence. They ask for light. Here is Light! This book is the CLASSIC EXPOSITION OF ENGLISH FREEMASONRY. Originally published in 1825, just twelve years after the organization of the United Grand Lodge of England, this works boasts the most complete collection of early versions of the English masonic rituals available under a single cover. Contains early versions of the three Craft degrees, the Royal Arch, Knight Templar Druids, Mark Man, Mark Master, Architect, Grand Architect, Scotch Master or Superintendent, Secret Master, Perfect Master, Intimate Secretary, Intendant of the Buildings, Past Master, Excellent Masons, Super-Excellent Masons, Nine Elected Knights, Elect of Nine, Peregnon, Elect of Fifteen, Priestly Order of Israel, Irish Master, Noahites or Prussian Knights, Red Cross Sword of Babylon, Knights of the Sword of the East, Red Cross of Rome and Constantine, Knights of the White Eagle or Pelican, Knights of the Eagle and Rosicrucian or Ne Plus Ultra. Illuminating study for Masons and nonmembers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Great Collection of Different Rituals
This is a great historic look at the early rituals of the Craft. This book should be in every Freemason's library!

Interested in The Templars? Try this one....
There are many reasons why I am proud to own this book, and I am delighted to find material relating to The Templars (and other Monastic FightingOrders) in this historical "expose'" of Freemasonry. I am alsoquite happy to finally find a book that mentions "The OddFellows." The author makes a bold claim, that he will "TeachMasonry to Masons." I also thank Amazon.com for their recommendationsystem, which inspired my girlfriend to send me this one as a surprise! Ifyou are caught-up in the Templar-craze, check-out this historical work andmeasure fact with fiction. You will not be disappointed.

Ducan Ritual
Manual of Freemasnary goes into more detail of what we are suppose to be doing in Freemasonary. It describes what goes on in the Blue lodge as well as the Royal Arch, Knights Templer and the Grand Electrial degrees offreemasonary. That is some of the reason's why I personaly like this book.As you more up the chain the more that you can learn by book knowledge andother ways. ... Read more

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Kessinger Publishing is the place to find hundreds of thousands of rare and hard-to-find books with something of interest for everyone! ... Read more

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In Freemasonry in Context: History, Ritual, Controversy editors Arturo de Hoyos and S. Brent Morris feature work by renown Masonic scholars. Essays explore the rich and often times controversial events that comprise the cultural and social history of Freemasonry. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Very good, a bit contraversial
This book is a collection of articles from the Freemasonic Magazine, Heredom, the magazine of the Scottish Rite (SJ) in the United States.All the articles take for granted some knowledge of Freemasonry and it is NOT what might be considered a "basic text".In particular I foundthe articles on Freemasonry in Germany during the Weimar Rep, and the questioning of many Masonic "myths" regarding membership to be very interesting. ... Read more

Product Description
The initial appeal of the Ancient Craft is as strong to-day as it has ever been. Freemasonry attracts as good men now as in the past. But in the absence of a concerted effort to teach quickly what in a more leisurely age could be spread over many years, the Institution often fails to hold the interest of the new brother against the many attractions of modern life.Habits of lodge attendance and interest in the Fraternity should be created while the first enthusiasm is high; moreover, every candidate has an inherent right to understand the reality of our rites, the meaning of our mysteries, the truth of our tenets, and the significance of our symbols.Many lodges attempt to intrigue the new brother with books. Some books are forbiddingly large; others are too learned; others assume that the reader has a knowledge which he does not possess. Some books are dull with many facts and no vision, while others are too specialized or confined to one viewpoint. These three volumes are different. Written by a brother with long experience as a Masonic speaker and writer, they have a simple manner of presentation, a plain statement of facts, a spiritual interpret ation of Masonic teachings and visualize the vital reality behind the allegory and the symbol.These books answer the simple elementary inquiries of the new brother to whom all the Craft is strange. They will make many an older Mason sit up in astonishment that what he thought obvious and uninteresting is so vividly alive.The author handles a heart-searching body of Masonic truth in a way so informative and so interesting, yet so touching and so tender, that the influence of these books when presented to and read by candidates must be vast and permanent. ... Read more

Product Description
1937. This was Waite's last book and is THE MOST IMPORTANT BOOK EVER WRITTEN ON THE ESOTERIC ASPECTS OF FREEMASONRY. "I am not offering in this book a revised edition of two volumes which appeared under the same title so far back as 1911. It is so altered, extended and transformed that it may claim to be a new undertaking and to supersede in fact that which it preserves in name." Waite not only reedited and radically restructured the two volume edition, but he incorporated much of his Emblematic Freemasonry (1925) that it might, as he said, supersede the previous work. This was Waite's last and (in his opinion) most important work on Freemasonry. Contents: Creative and Emblematic Freemasonry; Craft Degrees and Their Connections; Second Holy House; New Alliance in Freemasonry; Quest in Christian Ritual; Masonic Orders of Chivalry Apart from Templar Grades; Templar Grades of Freemasonry; Of Alchemy in Masonry; Of Magical and Kabbalistical Degrees; The Growth of Masonic Tradition; Freemasonry and the French Revolution; Mysteries on their Mystical Side. Extremely important. A masonic classic. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very meticulous and useful but restricted
Some readers have issues with A. E. Waite's style.Although it takes some getting used to, it reflects the erudition and precision of an author who knew several languages including German, French, Latin and Hebrew.The book is often tedious reading but the subject matter is quite complex in itself due for example to several Traditions having chosen FM as a vehicle for transmission.

On the hand, the personal dedication, warmth and devotion to the subject matter permeate his work.The reader often feels that an intimate conversation between himself and the author occurs.

As another reader has pointed out, it is regrettable that Mr Waite so much restricted his symbolic view of FM to the Christian esoteric Tradition (en passant formally rejected by the corresponding exoteric Tradition) to the exclusion of other entirely valid symbolic perspectives.In particular, Mr Waite ignores the third member of the triad of Abrahamic tradtions, namely the Islamic one, both in its exoteric and esoteric components, notwithstanding the fact that 18th century FM underwent a providential transformation towards a world-embracing initiatic order.In this context the question is apropos by whom esoteric knowledge was transmitted to the Knights Templars in Jerusalem and elsewhere in the East.

As Mr Waite termed himself someone devoted to Christian mystical experience, he himself thus explained the restriction of his perspective.Not all of his contemporaries, e.g. René Guénon, shared this viewpoint, the latter author taking great care to distinguish between "mysticism and initiation" and "religion and metaphysic" (my use of the singular is intended).

Nevertheless, Arthur Edward Waite is an author I love.His diligent, considerate, empathetic research and analysis of continental European FM shines in contrast to some other Anglo-Saxon authors.Even when criticising apparent follies of certain rituals, this occurs on a background of brotherly love.

Swept me along at a mind-bending pace!
Finally a book that helped me understand what the whole big deal behind Freemasonry is all about.The rituals, once understood in their symbolic significance are quite astonishingly profound and beautiful.It is a piece of very ancient history kept alive and significant.I swear, I wanted to go out and join a temple after I read this book.I think all the negativity surrounding Freemasonry is due to ignorance, fear, and prejudice.Masons have definitely helped to raise the frequency of mankind everywhere.Thanks to this remarkable book, I now understand how and why they were and are able to do so. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (43)

Great Insightful Book
This book is an absolute must have for anyone that wishes to gain deep insight into the rituals and rites of the Masonic Order. A very long read for a paperback book made even longer considering the print is medium-small sized, but don't let that deter you from reading this great compilation. Definitely worth buying

Great Book!!!
This is a great book for those who want to learn the ritual!!!

One Brother from MA-USA

Mixed Feelings
I have to start out by saying, I am glad that it has helped several people join a order I love dearly, and maybe I should be satisfied that it has helped in that decision making. It's also disturbing that the things that we as Masons hold so sacred (not secret) are available for everyone to see, without strict trial, and due examination, to see if you are worthy of this information. As someone mentioned earlier not every affiliation uses the Duncan, but some do, along with our guide and rule the Holy Bible. Most of us as Masons never was privileged to this information when we decided to join, nor during our travel in search for more light in the higher degrees until we got to that degree, and only then were we able to see the information pertaining to that degree, and no more. So I truly hope that with this ritual being available to everyone, it helps destroy the bad claims about our organization, and get good men to continue to join, to become better men. It is good reading, thanks to all of you that have had good things to say about the studies of the art Masonry.

So Much for Secrecy
I am not a Mason, but have an interest in what they are and why there is so much secrecy surrounding their proceedings.Reading Duncan's book is like being in the Lodge while these initiations, rituals and other processes are going on.

The book is very thorough, including footnotes, to explain the significance of certain words orthe history behind some of the rituals. Great reference book.

Excellent compilation of the "York" or US Freemasonic Rite
This compilation of rituals is basically intended for those duly initiated into the so-called "York" or US free-masonic rite. This rite much resembles the "Standard Rite of Scotland" (not to be confused with the so-called "Scottish Rite"!). Given the purpose of the book, this reviewer does not find it appropriate to criticise the US Rite as such in this context.

Of course the reader should be aware that there are several rites and variants thereof practised in Freemasonry, some, e.g. the Emulation Rite practised in England and the French Rite, more "adogmatic"; others, e.g. the Scandinavian and Rectified Scottish Rites, on the other hand even more closely frameworked to the Christian Tradition than the "York" Rite.

The size, quality, typeface, paper, binding, etc. of the book are simply excellent for the stated purpose. The explanations and comments are very useful and well balanced.

Problematic may well be the availability of this book to the general public. It is not a substitute for proper initiation and cannot, as can no book, convey the real essentials of Freemasonry. ... Read more

Product Description
An experienced Freemason and award-winning psychologist provides a precise and engaging exploration of the core meaning and practices of Freemasonry for the new generation of people interested in joining the order, and those who are simply curious in the wake of recent media coverage.

Entertaining books and movies often depict Freemasonry as a shadowy, mysterious, and possibly sinister organization, and the TV and magazine specials on Freemasonry that inevitably follow often leave us with more questions than answers.

Mark E. Koltko-Rivera, a practicing thirty-second-degree Mason, has created a simple, authoritative, and easy-to-understand introduction to the history, rites, and meaning of Freemasonry. It may be the single most reliable short guide to Masonry, written by a widely recognized psychologist and scholar of esoteric history.

Koltko-Rivera's trustworthy handbook explores all the basic issues around Masonry, like:

*What is Freemasonry, and what is its history?

*How does one become a Freemason?

*What are some of the most important Masonic symbols?

*What do Masons get from their involvement in Freemasonry? What changes does it make in their inner and outer lives?

*What is it like to participate in the initiatory rituals of Freemasonry?

*What are some of the great historical controversies and myths surrounding Freemasonry?

*How is Masonry relevant today? ... Read more