Professional Documents
Culture Documents
STUDY
IN
American
Based
AND upon
Freemasonry
"
Pike's
Morals
and
Dogma
"
of
the
Ancient
Accepted
Scottish
"The
AND
Rite,"
Encyclopedia Other
Mackey's
of
Masonic
masonry," Free-
Ritualist,"
American
Masonic
Standard
Works
EDITED
BY
ARTHUR
Editor
of
PREUSS
the
Catholic
Fortnightly Review
SECOND
EDITION
ST.
LOUIS,
by
MO., B.
Broadway
1908
Herder
Published
17 South
FREIBURG
(BADEN)
HERDER
LONDON
AND
EDINBURGH
B.
SANDS
"
CO.
NIHIL
OBSTAT.
F.
G.
HOLWBCK,
Censor
lAbrorum.
S.
Ludovici,
die
12.
Maji,
1908.
f /i
.
f'^a
IMPRIMATUR.
^1
Joannes
J.
Glbnnon,
Archiepiscopus
S.
SH.
Ludovici,
Ludovici,
die
13.
Maji,
1908.
Copyright,
1908,
by
Joseph
Gummersbach.
PREFACE
TO
THE
SECOND
EDITION
So
soon
new
edition
content
of
this
volume with
as
become
ing correct-
necessary
such
must
ourselves
errors
(typographical)
notice.
to
have
been
brought
It is
a
pleasure
so
be
able
to
say
that
the
reviews in
of
this
in
Study,
South
far
country,
have the
been book
Canada,
uniformly
as
vorable. fa-
and
useful
publication.
to
Freemasons
constrained of
tone.
acknowledge
a
objectivity and
in the Missouri
Thus
Masonic
Review^
"
says:
Study
Pike's
'
in American Morals
and
upon
is based
...
Ancient
and
and
cepted Ac-
Rite,' Mackey's
writers.
publications
a
in for
no
calm,
all the
gumentative ar-
manner,
giving
author
authorities
so
legation al-
that
the while
makes,
that
he
offense
see
is felt the
take mis-
by
Mason of
the
reading it,though
in the conclusion
"
may
given by him." critic specifies as follows This mistake : our the York American Masons of adopt majority the Blue through of Masonry Lodge leading from of Knights the to Templar. Commandery Chapter
author
"
"
The Rite
the In the
the
Scottish
Rite there
leading
is
more
from of
the
same
Lodge
to
33rd
Masons in
degree
would
philosophic
any
are
reply
to
the
assertions
neither
branch
or
is there
taught
that
philosophy
in
science, but
or
these
teaching, but of the author, that concealed religion, all fully set forth
the esoteric and
sonry Manot
a
the
monitorial
exoteric the
to
Masonry,
of monitorial
79-
being changing or
iVol.
merely
addition
I
forms the
initiation
part."
Ill, No.
(Oct.
1908),
i
p.
ii
PREFACE
TO
SECOND
EDITION
The
writer
one
"
of of
this the
criticism
"
is and
probably
Fork contention
an
exoteric
or
Freemason,
best
a
Knife
^
degree,"
is
so
at
Bright
Mason."
His
the
oughly thorwe
refuted
need admit
"
throughout
into
must
an
present
here. the
"
volume Once
"
that Masons of
we
not
enter
argument
admit of
as
they
the leave
to
authenticity
citations,
reader the
our
sources
and
genuineness
the
of
our
can
tranquilly
as
unprejudiced
our
judgment
are
to
the but
validity
flow
conclusions,
from these
which
not
forced,
spontaneously
premises.
Arthur St.
Preuss.
Louis,
Nov.
I,
1908.
Vide
of
infra,
this
pp.
6,
see
9,
28
sq. p.
For
our
opinion
of
exoteric
Masons
'
class
pp.
infra,
12
16. 18
sqq.
See
especially
10,
sqq.,
INTRODUCTION
Among
in
the
varied
influences
are
ceaselessly molding
be
gaged en-
shaping prominent by
our
American
must,
ideas in Its
life, Freemasonry
a
fairness,
are
place. daily
theme
of
our
principles
its labors and
scattered
broadcast
are
press;
for pen;
our
humanity
its
bers mem-
the
are,
constant
tongue
in great
even
part,
lawgivers,
of
our our
judges,
in school
our
rulers its
the the
are
presidents
educators often of
ranks;
university
among and
its
adherents,
which young To its the of
their
pupils
and in
methods
prepare after
become
zealous
partisans
and
that
ministers
so
bishops
not
even
initiates
often
only
those and
corner
stones
Protestant
churches,
its
laid
by
To
fact if
we
its officers
consecrated
among
us,
by
mystic
be
to
rites.
deny
its
influence than
to
would
deny
And of
plainer
are
the believe
we
"
light
the
of
day.
protestations grudge
"
open
not
American
or
Freemasonry,
its power.
should
it its
numbers
It
is," it asserts,
there is
purely
harm.
benevolent
It admits No love and be
association,
all
in
in
a
which
no
religions
can
spiritof universal
It the It for teaches
tolerance.
atheist
and the
be
member.
brotherly
of
a man
universal
benevolence,
of
man.
fatherhood
God
to
brotherhood enforces
requires
moral;
respect
iii
authority;
assists
its
iv associates
better
INTRODUCTION
in
life, and
when
to
death
dust
calls them
with
to
appropriate
care
ceremonies widow
solicitous this be
for
American
of American
Masonry;
be and
Masonry
is hard Yet
be conceived. is
Freemasonry, oppositionto American and which, if strong opposition,in a quarter from should least sincere, we are Masonry's assurances from it; oppositionand condemnation expect to meet
a
"
there
ignorance on her part? Is it prejudice and bigotry? Is it the pettinessof wounded pride at findinga powerful competitor in the field? Is it priestly fluence inwill suffer no tyranny which for good, if dissevered from its own? even The present Study will,we hope, throw lightupon all these points,which but interest the inquisitive cannot
mind.
deeds
of benevolence
guides," it will be asked, are we to in our follow to Study ? Guides, we answer, whom no exceptioncan be taken ; guides who certainly know of what will speak they speak; guides who in all sincerity, since they do not speak for us, but for the instruction of those of whom they are the We shall use acknowledged and accepted teachers.
But what
" "
"
"
standard of such
works
the Freemasonr-y,
works
celebrated
and that
authorities
Pike.
as
Bro.
Albert
G.
Mackey
To show of Mason
our
Bro.
we
not
exaggerating
indeed
no
the
sources,
which
a
educated
would
for
moment
deny, our
readers
will
INTRODUCTION
permit
a
"
us
to
give,in
the words
of
Masonic
Brother,
Hterary labors.
McCIenachan
for the ternity, Fra-
Masonry,"
of
says
in his Memoir
Dr.
Dr.
his
greatest
he voted de-
that and
sciences
was
best years of his life. passed, and raised to the sublime Mason in
initiated,
Master
10,
at
Solomon's
Lodge,
1842,
March,
of
was
No.
i, of
December,
and in
elected
was
Master
elected
thereof. Grand
the
1845, Grand
Carolina.
Lecturer In both
Grand
was
offices he
until 1866, combining uninterruptedly with the duties of the Secretariat that of preparing the Reports on Foreign Correspondence. In the Grand of South lina, CaroChapter of the Royal Arch Masons elected Grand Lecturer Dr. Mackey was in 1845,
Deputy Grand
year,
High
until
Priest in
1847, and
in each
cessive suc-
Grand he was made 1854, when ous High Priest,in which positionhe served, by continure-elections,until 1867. Upon the organization, Council of in i860, in South Carolina of a Grand elected Grand Select Masters, he was Royal and Master. During the period he filled these important in the Grand Chapter, and Lodge, Grand positions,
Grand
Council
of
South
Carolina, he
over
exercised
Masonry of from a under his fostering care that State, which grew of great prosperity. of weakness condition to one His Annual Reports on Foreign Correspondence, and
and potential
beneficial influence
the
addresses, gave
him
rep-
vi
INTRODUCTION
utation In
which the
was
shared
by
he of
represented.
the
in
1859,
at
Royal
the
Arch
United
States,
elected
their
to
triennial
convocation
highest positionwithin office which that of General Grand an High Priest he held for six years. At an earlyperiod, Dr. Mackey struse took interest in Scottish Rite an Masonry, the abphilosophy of which he found congenial. In ultimate or 1844, he received the Thirty-third degree of that rite, became of the Supreme Council a member for the Southern of the United States, Jurisdiction and was immediately elected its Secretary-General, which he continuouslyoccupieduntil his death. [office]
him
"
he was the oldest member many years in the United States,in virtue of which of position Dean of the Council, and, that
as a
of he mark
the held of
respect and
Supreme Body, by special the office of Secretary-General, which enactment, made is usually the sixth in rank, the third office during his
esteem, life.
"
As
contributor Dr.
to
the
literature and
labors other than have
science been
more
of
Freemasonry,
extensive
in had than
Mackey's
of any
those
in this country
whom
no one
or
Europe.
better
Robert
Morris,
'
has
of judging, said in 1856, in opportunities his Reminiscences,that the character of Dr. Mackey as a profound and lucid historian and writer in all departments of Masonry is, we conceive, unequaled Dr. by any living writer, unless it be the venerable Oliver of sonry, England.' (Encyclopcedia of FreemaEd. of 1906, pp. 916-917.)
"
Not
content
with
"
of
to
esteem, Dr.
Bro.
Mc-
Clenachan,
in his
INTRODUCTION
"
vii
As
the
young
student
or
older
devotee
looks
for,
work
to
and
is entitled to and
tion informain
a
deductions
of
this class, I
on
have
diffidence
from
years
undertaken the
carry
the he
work
where
ceased word of
labors
or
ten
withdrawing a
but
from
a
by
few
means
voluminous
replacing
the material
the
pages
of and in
supplement
which its relative
a
concluded of
original work,
consisted
cidenta in-
omitted
therefore, is
This
more
subsequent discoveries
Addendum,
an
and
opinions
as
no a
loving
tribute to
successful
esteemed
endeavors
add
so
had
information We
of the Craft." is
tutelageof such a He he speaks, for besides knows whereof master. of the highest positions in the order, he some filling the accredited teacher of his Brethren for nearly was four decades, from He 1841 to his death, in 188 1. will tell us the truth, for he is writing for those whom
to
evident, safelytrust
the
selves our-
he is anxious
to
instruct
and
ing mean-
"
617,
"
that
men
who works.
not
Masons have
not
no
never
read
authentic
in the
Masonic
They
and could
terest in-
topicsdiscussed,
from
a
stand under-
them,
which
a
want
of the preparatory
can a
education
were
the
Lodge
to
alone trench
supply. Therefore,
little
arcana
on
writer
even
what
of
may
be
sidered con-
as
being reallythe
Masonry, there
viii
is
to
INTRODUCTION
no
danger of his thus making an improper persons." The Doctor for us fortunately
that
use we
improper
is in
error
revelation
when
he
asserts
do
not
read
authentic
Masonic
books.
We his
his Encyclopcediaof Freemasonry, freely Lexicon masonry, of Freemasonry, his Symbolism of Freehis Masonic and his Masonic Jurisprudence,
"
shall
Ritualist,
not
all He
standard is in
error
works also
of when
American he
masonry. Free-
imagines that
the We
venture
we
are
interested, and
his learned he is in
even
deeply interested, in
discuss.
as we
works also
error
to
our
to inability
meaning,
the
though
of
structi in-
clearlyto
is
indicate,without
hinted
doubt, what
in
one
only
at; and
Bro. and
incomplete instruction
in another. Pike and
place is
classic,
fortunatelycompleted
Of
Morals Albert
his
Ancient
some
Masonic and
extracts account
Scottish
Rite
of
Accepted
from of the Bro.
preface
the
brief
McClenachan,
of
Dr.
of Freemasonry,
"
will be
The
following work,"
and of
"
Morals
Thirty-third [and Western] Jurisdiction Degree for the Southern of the United Commander States, by the Grand self] [himand is now It conpublished by its direction. tains the Lectures of the Ancient and tish Accepted ScotRite in that jurisdiction and is specially intended be and studied to read of that by the Brethren
obedience, in connection with
the Rituak of the
says been
Bro.
Pike
of the
his
thority au-
prepared by
of the
De-
INTRODUCTION
ix
grees. himself
It is with
hoped
a
and
expected
make
will furnish
with
copy
and
familiar
it."
"
It not
felt at
at
he large,
has
a
compendium
remould
Morals
Dogma
add
to
of
the
Rite,
and
as
sentences,
change
with
to
to
words
use
them
own,
as
his own,
and
at
them
be dealt make
with
his
most
pleasure,
valuable
availed
of
the whole
the purposes
Albert
intended."
"
Bro.
born
.
in
Boston,
a
Mass., December
in
1809.
he Little
After
.
sojourn
an
early life
and and
in Mexico, in
returned
to
the
United
as
States editor
settled
Rock,
to
Arkansas,
the
war
lawyer. Subsequent
he
in had
cast
of with
his fortunes
law, making
in library,
home,
and
Alexandria.
His
extent
selections,is
the
marvel,
pecially es-
pertainsto
is
wonders
in ancient
Sov[ereign] G[rand] the Southern of Council Commander Supreme A[ncient and] A[ccepted] Scottish Rite, having been is Prov[incial]G[rand] Master elected in 1859. He of Scotland of the G[rand] Lodge of the Royal Order
in the U.
Pike
S., and
author
an
honorary
member His
of
almost
every
a
Supreme
Council
and
in the world.
standing as
as
a
Masonic
historian, and
withal
poet,
zeal is without and his untiring distinguished, a parallel."{Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, pp. 992, 993.) Pike died in Washington, Apr. 2, 1891. allow American shall therefore We Freemasonry is most
INTRODUCTION
only at times speak for itself, regretting not clearlyand fully;and speak more must pardon us that the occasional fulness
to
that it will
our
readers
our
of
tations quofor
sometimes
we
introduces
a
extraneous
matter,
the its context
would
not
for
or
moment
suspicion
and
of of
phrase apart
its
meaning.
is written for for the
not
present work
must
ordinary
pardon
their
us
questionsin minuteness by
our
of detail.^
own
deductions
to
shall be enabled
keep
our
Study within readable limits. it is as a mere contribution to information Finally, concerning American Freemasonry that we offer the
not
as an
exhaustive On
to
dissertation
a
nothing to
we
be desired.
number
of
shall
present
in remit
our
readers
American
Freemasonry
its initiates, and other
approved
for further
gives to
to
information The
authors.
of these has already chapters Review.
substance in The
of many
appeared
In the
some
Catholic
Fortnightly
presentingthe matter, however, in book form to public,it has been thought well to condense parts and to enlargeothers, hoping thus to meet
and
our
crown
wishes
readers.
aim, the
be feel
and
more
the
tenets
of
American
Masonry
we
better
generally understood,
for the labor
shall
which
the
volume
iThe
has entailed.
immediate
method
object of this book will also explain the literary of giving references, and employed, the mode a
to
few other features that may at first blush appear of scholarship or of scientific acumen.
indicate want
LIST UPON
OF
THE
CHIEF THIS
MASONIC STUDY IS
WORKS BASED
WHICH
1.
An
Encyclopedia
and
Sciences: Sciences
of Arts,
tion. Institu-
Literature Albert
G. "
Connected M.D.
with
the
By
Louis
2.
Mackey,
1906.
Philadelphia:
H.
Everts
Co.
The
Symbolism
and York:
of Freemasonry:
and
Illustrating
its Legends, G.
and
Explaining Myths
New 33 East
its Science
Philosophy,
Albert "
Merrill
Symbols. Maynard,
By
Street.*
M.D.
and
Nineteenth
(Copyrighted
or
1869.)
3.
Mackey'
Master.
Masonic
Ritualist:
Monitorial
structio Into
in the
Select
Degrees from
of
the
Entered
Apprentice
Fast
By A. G. Mackey,
Priest Gen.
"A
M.D.,
Lexicon
"
General
Grand United
High
"
Grand
Chapter of
Book York The
of of
:
the
States, Author
Manual
"
of
sonry," Freemathe
of the Lodge" Chapter," Cryptic Masonry," etc. " Co.* Merrill (Copyrighted
4.
New
in
nard, May-
1867.)
a
Lexicon
of Freemasonry:
Containing
tion Defini-
Terms, Notices of all its Communicable and Antiquities and an History, Traditions
of
Account
its
of
all the
Rites G.
and
Mysteries of
M.D.
the
Ancient
By Albert
and
Mackey,
Edition,
New
Improved
Merrill and
by
Co.*
York:
Maynard,
in
*
"
(Copyrighted successively
1852, 1855,
Some of of standard
1871.)
have
no
these
books works.
date, because
they
are
prints re-
xi
xii
BIBLIOGRAPHY
5.
Text
the
Book
of
and G.
Masonic
Jurisprudence,
Laws
trating Illus-
Written
Unwritten
of
Author
masonry. Free-
By
"
Albert
Mackey,
"
M.D.,
Book
of
of
Freemasonry,"
Edition.
of
:
the
Chapter,"
rill Mer-
etc.
New'
in
York
Maynard,
(Copyrighted
and
1859.)
the
Morals
Rite
Dogma
Freemasonry,
of
Ancient
and
Accepted
the preme Suthe lished Pubsonic Ma-
Scottish
of
Prepared Degree
States
for
Council
Southern
of
the
Thirty-Third of
the
for
and and Charleston:
Jurisdiction
United
by
its
Authority.
Co.,
34 Park
Macoy
Row,
Albert
Publishing
N. Y.
Supply
A
.'.
.".
s64i.t
[By
Pike.]
Some of
of
these
have
no
date,
because
they
are
prints re-
standard
t The
above is
date 1880-81.
is
Anno
Mundi
5641,
this
"'
in
our
putation com-
Mackey
p.
gives
71 used
:
in In
Encyclopedia
year
of
the
Freemasonry,
The Rite: After found date
Anno the
of
World.
is
in
and
by
adding
add
one
3760
one
the
more:
vulgar
this
in
September.
the
year
September
is the Hebrew
^
is
used i860
which and
begins
October
July
3760
5620,
i860
5621."
CONTENTS
PAGE
Introduction Bibliography
iii xi
I Freemasonry
.
.
American
II i8
CHAPTER Means
of
HI
Instruction
in
American
Freemasonry
...
38
IV
the
Entrance
and
Shock
of
ment Enlighten-
58
CHAPTER
Is
V
79
American
Masonry
Religion?
VI Freemasonry
as a
American
ligion Re94
VII Paganism
117
VIII
141
American
Freemasonry
IX
Kabbalistic
Jehovah
. .
170
X
Human
Soul
....
200
xiv
CONTENTS
CHAPTER
XI
PAGE
American
Freemasonry
and
the
Bible
221
CHAPTER
American
AND
Xn
its
Freemasonry Christianity
in
Relation
to
Catholicity
249
CHAPTER Were
Benedict
Xni IX
XIV
and
Pius
Freemasons?
....
267
CHAPTER
A Peep Into
the
XIV
of an
Proceedings
American
Lodge
.
.
273
CHAPTER
Masonic Morality
XV
290
CHAPTER
Masonic Benevolence
XVI
316
CHAPTER
Masonic
XVII
History
346
CHAPTER
Is American Freemasonry
XVIII One
With European masonry? Free-
378
APPENDIX
The Index
Unity
of
Freemasonry
413 427
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
knew these
aims
of
the
Masonic
no
Order.
That
they
aims, needs
that
they
the
have
stronger proof than the long years that they told us the lived as Masons;
to
truth, is witnessed
and
by
the
of integrity
their character
such
estimable
the
are
men
we
word
to
say.
How
common
we
type
that
may
to
American
we
are
Freemasons,
We
unable
it is
to
by
no
means
uncommon.
to
you,
us
for do
moment,
we
rash you
to
and
to
for
our reasons.
to
so;
are
ask
only
be
We
content
judged by
candor you
them.
We and and
have
Masonic avoid
friends'
offending both
submit them
to
would, however,
in all their
by
are
who
not
Masons.
in
It is contained
is found 249
:
"
Mackey's Masonic
"
Behavior shall
in presence
of strangers words
not
Masons.
You
be
cautious
and
carriage,
be able to
penetrating stranger
what is not
shall not
to be
find out
proper
intimated
age you shall divert a discourse,and manit prudently for the honor of the Worshipful Fraternity."
sometimes
Secrecy
essence
is after
"
all, remember,
The
the
very
^
of the
institution.
duty
of
an
Entered
and
Apprentice
1
is embraced
this
ours.
by
the virtues
where
of silence
Throughout
italics
are
volume,
In
except
the
this passage
they
are
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
told
in the
same
of the
rite,viz:
The
two
Masonic
tues. vir-
symbolicaldesign of
are
called the
the particularly Select Master's culcate degree to insilence. They are, indeed, of
a
it is
Select
Master, because
is prominently set before practice the candidate in the legend, as well as in all the ceremonies of the degree. But these virtues constitute the very essence character;they are the of all Masonic safeguards of the institution, giving to it all its enforced and perpetuity, and are by frequent security the lowest in all the degrees, from admonitions to Entered the Apprentice begins his highest. The Masonic career by learning the duty of secrecy and it is appropriatethat in that degree Hence silence. is the consummation in which of initiation, the
of necessity
which whole
science is completed, the cycle of Masonic abstruse machinery of symbolism should be employed to impress the same important virtues on the mind of the neophyte If we turn our says Caleyes back to antiquity,' shall find that the old Egyptians had so we cott, great a regard for silence and secrecy in the mysteries of their rehgion that they set up the god Harpocrates and veneration; to whom they paid peculiar honor with the right hand placed near who represented was the heart, and the left down by the side,covered with a that of to signify skin before, full of eyes and ears; lished. things to be seen and heard few are to be pubmany
"
'
'
"
who Apuleius,
was
an
initiate in the
mysteriesof
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
will peril the I be
Isis, says
to to
'
By
on
no
ever
compelled to
I have
"
the uninitiated
me
things
that
had
condition
at
of silence.'
It would when We
be
well the
least to of
ponder
your
on
these
things
friends.
weighing
Masonic waive
will, however,
of friends have
moment,
important duty
your
as
Masonic been
as
and
suppose
candid
with
what Tell us in all sincerity, they you assert. of the Order. told you concerning the aim and purposes
Have
they
a mere
asserted
society for
of
care
tion? purely social organizagathering to promote goodfellowship? and the purely temporal advancement
that it is
a a mere
assistance
to
benevolent the
ciation asso-
orphan, and the That it has nothing to do with in distress? brethren or politics, party, or a man's religion? Are these the things that in all candor and sincerity they have told you ? If they are, we ask you to follow shall give you, in our from us thentic auStudy, for we Masonic American more light on sources, of these matters than your friends have deigned many
widow,
and
to
afford We
you. any
disclaim, however,
our own
desire
of
imposing
are
personalopinionsof
to
submit
our
tent con-
you
the
judge
in most And Masonic in
of the correctness
cases, now,
deductions, if,indeed,
deductions
as
a
be not
superfluous.
of your
practicaltest
let end
us
friends'
it is
examine and
how
correct
For,
be
on
object of Freemasonry. admit that if they are fair, you must illand primary as a point so fundamental
is littleto be relied
on
information
in
more
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
5
the fact
abstruse sincere
and
as
recondite
may
matters.
Now
are
is,that
error;
they
Dr.
be, they
assures
in sincerely
us,
as although,
Mackey
those
a
that
shared
in the
error,
constituted
in his
days
large majority
of the Brotherhood.
"What,
asks
"
Symbolism of Freemasonry, pp. 301-302. A very large majority of its disciples," he answers, in the "looking only to its practical results,as seen every-day business of life, to the noble charities which it dispenses, of the widow to the tears which it has dried, to the cries of the orphans which it has of the destitute which it has suphushed, to the wants plied, arrive with too much at the conclusion rapidity and that, too, in its least exalted sense that Charity, of tion." eleemosynary aid, is the great design of the institu" "
in his
"Others,"
their
he
continues, "with
still more
tracted con-
pleasant reunions
communications solemn
of
mutual
and
that
confidence
it
was
that
believe inculcated,
the
intended
cement
social sentiments
and
friendship." The true object and aim of Masonry, American for it is of this that Dr. Mackey speaks Masonry neither is therefore mere mere sociabilitynor itself in the shows which eleemosynary benevolence form of material assistance to the poor, the aged and it is something higher,something vaster, in afflicted; the true Masonic idea; something immeasurably more In admitting, fore, thereworthy of the instructed Mason. of your Masonic have friends, we the sincerity
" " "
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
been
"
Those
Masons,"
to
says
Bro.
McClenachan
in
his
masonry, Mackey's Encyclopcedia of Freewho take more freshments delight in the rep. 970, of the banquet than in the labors of the admire Lodge, and who Masonry only for its social said to be Members of the Knife aspect, are ironically first uttered by and Fork was Degree.' The sarcasm he said in his Ahiman Dermott, when Reson, p. 36, also thought expedient speaking of the Moderns, that it was of studying geometry to abolish the old custom in the Lodge; and some of the young brethren made it appear that a good knife and fork in the hands of dexterous a brother, over materials, would give proper to the rotundity of greater satisfaction and add more the Lodge than the best scale and compass in Europe.' But it may be that your friends are something more than deserve ranked this, and that they even to be be well Bright Masons." They among may acquainted with the ritual of the Order. They may have at their fingers' ends the forms of opening and be able closing a Lodge. to even They may go of initiation without take, misthrough all the ceremonies a and yet be only on the threshold of true Masonic knowledge. A Mason is said to be bright,' says Dr. Mackey in his Encyclopcedia, is well acquainted p. 130, "who with the ritual, the forms of opening and closing, and the ceremonies of initiation. This expression does Addendum Dr.
"
'
'
"
"
"
'
"
not, however,
the the
in its .technical of
sense,
superiorknowledge
Institution,and
not
some
the
to
include
of
science
are,
on
bright
Masons
are
and,
the
not
well
versed
in the
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
phraseologyof the ritual. The one knowledge the other is derived depends on a retentive memory, from It is scarcelynecessary to say deep research. kinds of knowledge is the more which of the two uable. valexact
The
Mason
whose
to
a
acquaintance
he learns from
with
the
stitutio In-
what
limited
philosophy."
again in his Symbolism, pp. 310-31 1, "in repeatingwith fluency and precision the ordinary lectures,in complying with all the ceremonial of the ritual, or the requisitions the appointed modes giving, with sufficient accuracy of recognition, pertains only to the very rudiments of
consists,"he
says the
"
"
That
skill which
Masonic But
science.
is
a
there
"
far nobler
series of doctrines," he
continues,
which
in the
some
with been
which my
it has
constitute It is these which imperfectway. the philosophy of Freemasonry, and science and
it is these devotes
alone
which
to
will return
the
student reward
who for
himself
the
task,
sevenfold
his labor.
Freemasonry, viewed no longer,as too long it has has now assumed been, as a merely social institution, undoubted its original and position as a speculative ritual is still carefullyprethe mere While science. served,
"
as
the
casket
should
be
which
contains
so
bright a jewel ; while its charities are stilldispensedas the necessary though incidental result of its moral still cultivated teachings ; while its social tendencies are
as
the
tenacious
cement
which
is to
so
fair mind
fabric in symmetry
and
is
everywhere beginning to
and
ask
something
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
which, Hke
our
the
manna
in the
us,
in
universal The pilgrimage,with intellectual food. world, is for light;our cry, throughout the Masonic labor is to be to be schools ; our lodges are henceforth to be learning; the types and are study; our wages of the institution, symbols, the myths and allegories, to are beginning to be investigatedwith reference their ultimate traced meaning; our historyis now by zealous with antiquity; to its connection as inquiries that often and Freemasons now thoroughly understand that ity quoted definition, Masonry is a science of moralveiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols.' Thus work and to do to learn Masonry is to know our
'
What
true
Mason
would
shrink
from
the
confident,kind
the terms which
reader, that
to
never
presented Masonry
Dr.
Mackey uses are strange and new, and for the moment, perhaps,bewildering to If you will follow us step by step patiently you. ; not everything clear at once; not expectingus to make throw the subject can shutting off what light we upon before us, by trustingtoo much to your own perience, exwhich learn you
we
is
more
apparent
American
than
real:
you
will
much know
at
more
about
can
tell you
your
"
Masonic
reveal.
us,
But," you
that
will ask
how
be
is it possible or
ible, cred-
in the Masonic years Order, and yet be ignorant of its real purposes ? " It is credible,we have because we it on the answer,
Masons
should
unimpeachable testimony of thoroughly informed sons persuch as Dr. Mackey. it is possibleis not How
lO
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
There
esoteric
are,
therefore, in
or or
American
of the
Masonry,
forms.
so.
the
Masons,
Masons Masons
are
inner
school; and
Both
are
exoteric Masons,
are
of the outer
not
Masons,
but
both of
equally
who who
were
"
They
the
Pythagoras,
were
esoteric and
those
attended
lic pubwere
where the
sage
general
"
ethical former
instructions
were
by
the
true
those these
who alone
constituted
the
school, and
"
Pythagoras called," says Jamblichus, his companions and friends." (Cfr.Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry, p. 622.) But that you may not fancy that this is an invention in explicit Bro. Pike tells us of our read what own, the members forceful words. He is instructing and of the 17th degree or Knights -of the East and West. This is the first of the Philosophical degrees of the Rite ;" he says, Ancient and Accepted Scottish and will of instruction which the beginning of a course fullyunveil to you the heart and inner mysteries of Do have often not despair because Masonry. you the inmost seemed the point of attaining and on light, have often been as disappointed. In all time, truth has been hidden under cession symbols and often under a sucveil after veil had of allegories to be : where before the true Light was reached, and the penetrated, essential truth stood revealed." {Morals and Dogma, p. 246.) For sixteen degrees,therefore, or half of the whole has the candidate been led on, ever imagining course, that he knows much, for he fancies that he is on the light;" whereas, in point of attainingthe inmost for he has yet to truth, he knows comparativelylittle, is to unveil to of instruction which begin the course
.
"
"
"
AMERICAN
him
FREEMASONRY
He would mysteriesof the Craft. repudiate the idea of being a mere Mason," and yet, such is his real condition in
the true
less doubt"
Parrot
the eyes
of his instructed A
Brethren. Dr.
Mason,
the
says
Mackey,
answers
"who
commits
to
memory attention
is is
questionsand
the formulas
and lectures,
to
of
the
historyand
called
a
the
commonly
Parrot
Mason,^ because
he
supposed to repeat what he has learned without any conception of its true meaning. In former times, such Masons held by many in high repute, were superficial because of the facility with which they passed through the ceremonies of a reception, and they were generally But the progress of designated as Bright Masons.' requiressomething more Masonry as a science now than a mere knowledge of the lectures to constitute a scholar." (Encyclopcedia, rot ParMasonic p. 561.) A
'
"
Mason
never
"
is,therefore,
He
tell
one
of the esoteric. He is
is talkative, they
us
tive. secre"
ready
so
to
all about
he says, and we are Perhaps, like the bird, his namesake, and
is
But, like
has he
a
"
parrot, he
without
what
true
he
heard,
any
conceptionof
of
its
meaning;"
are
exoteric,not
esoteric
knowledge;
that indignant
Masonry
waxes
shrouded
such feast
brethren
on
should
with
"
not
the kernel.
he
" confine their says, of the signsand the cere-
Too
many
a
of
them,"
to acquirements
1
knowledge
Italics Dr.
Mackey's.
12
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
monies
of
initiation.
no
There
they
cease
their
searches. re-
study of the philosophy and to Order. the They do not seem tended of recognitionare know that the modes simply inof security against imposition,and means as worth rites are that the ceremonial nothing without the symbolism of which they are only the external less senseMasonry for them is nerveless exponents. it is an meaning lifeless; empty voice without of splendid foliage,but without a tree single a fruit." {Encyclopaedia, p. 617.) But, perhaps, with Dr. Mackey, we are too hard on They make of the antiquities
" " "
brethren
; for
we
have
overlooked, in part,
with
we
of difficulty
lower,
"
or
fondly imagined
was ever
sincere
and
candid
instruction
it.
The the
to receive them, if they would consent ing testimony of Bro. Pike, however, in instruct-
open
to
"
Scottish
affairs.
"
Thirtieth
of of
The
or
court
are
"
but
the
outer
Part
of the
symbols
intended that
plication ex-
displayed there
misled
the
by
false
It interpretations.
that
he
shall understand
he shall
imagine
Their
true
Adepts, the Princes of The whole dotal Masonry. body of the Royal and SacerArt was hidden centuries so since, in carefully, the High Degrees, as that it is even yet impossibleto of the enigmas which solve many It is they contain. well enough for the mass of those called Masons, to imagine that all is contained in the Blue Degrees ; and
is reserved
AMERICAN whoso
and
an
FREEMASONRY
13
will labor in
attempts
any
to
undeceive reward
them
vain,
without
true
violate his
Adept.
head
Masonry
sands
is the veritable
the
heaped round (Morals and Dogma, p. 819.) Do kind still, reader, place the same implicit you confidence in the Masonic knowledge of your Masonic friends? Do think that they are of even aware you how their Brethren in the Higher Degrees regard Do they fancy for a moment that the Order them? that they praiseso highly,purposely deceives them in it presents to the explanation of the symbols which them never intending that they should understand that they should imagine them, but intendingpositively so? Is this its sociability? this its that they do
"
in the
even
towards
its own?
Do
the the
you have
Bro. deceived. It is taken from they themselves were Pike's book (pp. 104-105), where instruction is given The Master." for the Third Degree or that of Masonry," says Bro. Pike, like all the Religions, and Alchemy, conceals all the Mysteries,Hermeticism [the italics here are Pike's] its secrets from all except false the Adepts and Sages, or the Elect, and uses of its symbols to explanationsand misinterpretations deserve mislead those who ceal only to be misled; to conit calls Light, from the Truth, which them, and to
" "
"
draw
are
them
away
or
from
it.
to
Truth
is not
unworthy
it. So
unable
receive
it, or
men, by incapacitates many leads the colors, and color-blindness, to distinguish the the highest Truth, giving them from masses away of it as it is profitable to attain only so much power
God
Himself
14 them its
"
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
to to
to
know.
Every
even
age
has
had
religionsuited
goes the
no
"... capacity.
The
"
Teachers,
are,
of
to
say,
in
general, the
which
on
true
meaning
of who
"
of that
so
they
There Bible.
as
is
book
most
which read So
little is known
as
the
To
it,it is
incomprehensible
"
the
Sohar."
Masonry," he concludes, jealously conceals its secrets, and leads conceited intentionally ters interpreThere is no the sun more sight under astray. and ludicrous than the spectacleof the at once, pitiful
Prestons and the
Webbs,
and
not
to
mention
the
later
carnati in-
of Dullness
to to
*
'
'
We the
abstain
undertaking symbols of Masonry, and adding ones." them, or inventing new from commenting at length on
that
care
Commonplace,
assertions
we
call
to
for
comment
in
this
passage, discuss
do
not
what shall we anticipate The of Masonry's justification members by God's permission creatures, will
"
of
in His need
not
open
up
making Him the direct and sole cause of the physical defects of His the drawing of a parity between creatures the cutting off of humanity, physicaland moral defects divine truth the contempt for by God, from and Webb, Preston Masonic and lights in the York Rites American the ignorance of Christian teachers in regard to the true meaning of the Bible all these
" " " " "
thoughts
develop
the
we
leave, kind
reader,
to
your
own
ment. com-
We
friends have
would
reached
only
the
remark Third
that, if your
or
Masonic
Master's
Degree
to
in
Scottish
Masonry, they
have
been
supposed
swallow
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
15
hodge-podge of abuse of God and man, for a moment never of not imagining that they were the elect,but of the number of those purposely misled and deceived. In despisingothers, it never crossed their minds that they themselves were tempt objectsof conto the Adepts; for had that they they known the victims of such could were they, think duplicity, as you, be sincere and eulogizethe Order they do? We think, draw therefore, we our may, present has been to afford chapter to a close. Our purpose if elementary,ideas of American masons Freesome practical, and American Freemasonry, hoping, however, in coming chapters to set forth matters more fullyin have detail. We wished to gain a hearing from many their who, having among acquaintances esteemed heard Masonic whose friends, from lips they have glowing eulogies of the Order, have accepted such We praises as the testimony of competent witnesses. the estimable have been character willing to concede of the gentlemen in question,since we know nothing We have been willing to the contrary. to grant their sincerity but this very concession has forced us to question their knowledge. We have indicated, indeed, of secrecy and the obligation, to a Mason, paramount of his Order silence in regard to the arcana ; a secrecy baffle the most silence which must and penetrating
at
a
"
gulp
this
stranger;
and in
even
the
to
wife
of
his
an
bosom
utter
is to
the
Mason,
"
reference
to
Masonry,
a
stranger.
wise
You
are
act
as
becomes
moral
and
man,"
says
to
a
Mackey's
Mason's
"
Masonic behavior
Ritualist, p. 250,
at
in reference
home your
and
neighborhood family,friends,and
in his
of the
Lodge,
etc., but
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
wisely
Ancient here." We
to
consult
your
own
honor, and
not to
that
of
the
Brotherhood,
have
for
reasons
be mentioned
shown,
outside
as
the
Order
which, unblushing,
not
admits its
designedly deceives
its in
own so bers mem-
only those
doing
it
willingto consider Masonic friends sincere, though at the expense your that have shown of their Masonic knowledge. We Masonry they have erred in stating that American
is
as a we mere
social
institution, or
benevolent
association
understand the term ordinarily ; that those who, in sincerity, make such assertions,know nothing of the and science, and philosophy of doctrines, and history, the Order; that they are only in the portico of the temple of Masonic knowledge, far from the esoteric inner sanctuary, deceivingothers, it may be in good or faith,but deceived designedly, as are they themselves by those who are higher in the Order. We assailed the character have, therefore, in no way your knowingly and you need shall say
not
of
Masonic
friends,
our
nor
shall
we
do
so
present Study
to to
; hence
we
us
the the
end.
true
What and
is
ever
to
referred
inner
Masonry, the heart that supplies the lifeblood to the Order, the Adepts that know We have rather defended matters as they reallyare. those whom have shown, by so esteem, for we you be such, authorityand by reason, that a Mason may without of the knowing the true aim and purpose Dr. Mackey lamenting that in his day organization, the great majority of his Brethren belonged to this ill-
American
Masons
"CHAPTER
Masonic
II
Instruction
have
already
Masonry,
esoteric.
stated Hke
that those of
the all
instructions
of
are
Masonry,
the
and
Dr.
Mackey
which
treats
point
be known
in
Encyclopaedia
"
p. he
260,
defines
under
to
the
caption
"
Esoteric
secret
That
to
of
Masonry
which
from
is
only
choose
the
or
initiates
distinguished
which and from
exoteric
to
Masonry,
to
monitorial,
the words manuals
are
is accessible
read The
published
the and
works
Order.
Greek,
iamrepiKos,
were
internal,
used into
or were
and
clwTepi/tos, external,
whose
first
by
the that
Pythagoras,
exoteric,
or a
philosophy
to
was
divided
that
taught
few;
all, and
thus
the his
to
esoteric,
taught
to
to
select
and
disciples degree
either all
or
into
two
classes, according
the
of
which
into that
they
the the
had
attained,
as
being
fully
the
as
society, and
Master could
invested
with
knowledge
communicate,
the
public
of the
"
tions instruc-
school, and
awaiting
This
the
gradual reception
mode tion instruc-
of
further
was
knowledge.
borrowed
double
by Pythagoras
was
from
two
Egyptian
the
one
priests, whose
exoteric,
other and
theology
addressed
of the
to
kinds in
to
people
a
general;
of
the the
esoteric, and
and
to
confined who
select
or
number
were
priests
the
those
possessed,
the
to
possess,
regal
power.
And
mystical
18
nature
of
this
con-
MASONIC cealed
INSTRUCTION
19
in their
symbolic language by the images of the sphinxes placed at the of their temples." (Italics entrance Mackey's.) There three degrees in this school, he tells were us again, on p. 623 ; the first, Mathematici, being or engaged in the study of the exact sciences;and the second, or Theoretici, in the knowledge of God, and the future state of man; but the third, or highest degree, communicated was only to a few whose intellects were capable of grasping the full fruition of the Pythagorean philosophy." masonry This, therefore, is the school imitated by Freewas
" " "
doctrine
expressed
to
.
and
hence
old
Masons
'their ancient
his
return to
Pythagoras friend and brother'" (p. 623). "On he established Europe," says Dr. Mackey,
. .
"
school
at
Crotona, much
the
bling resem"
subsequentlyadopted by
As in the school of the
Freemasons
Philosopher there secret only to the few, so in were things communicated Masonry are there secret things imparted, as Bro. These Pike tells us, only to the Adepts or trulyElect. not be the aporrheta of the craft,things which may are are only to pass from the put in print;things which and on the lipsof the teacher to the ears of the pupil, is the opinion of Masons of which and nature number on Let us listen to Bro. Mackey discoursing divided. (p. 622).
the
"
subject.
Greek,
avopprjra.
holy things in the Ancient known only to the initiates, Mysteries which were and to be disclosed to the profane, were not were the are aporrheta of called the aporrheta. What
The
Freemasonry?
can
What
are
the
a
arcana
of which
for
there
some
be
no
disclosure?
is
question that
20
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION discussion
If the
years the
past has
of disciples of
given
the
rise to
much
Institution.
be
number
these
aporrheta
that
it is evident
by public discussion
will be
are
of the
the other
a
science
of
Masonry
prohibited.
restricted
On
to
only
few
the
beauty, the
which and
permanency,
are
and
on
dependent
secret
between Masonic
too
be lost.
it is difficult for
so
know
how
to
steer
as,
ing in avoid-
Order,
The views
not
to
of the exposition of the principles reticence into obscurity. fall by too much Masons
are
European
of the
far
more
liberal
in
their
of obligation There
are
German the
utmost
Masonic
writer
will refuse It is
now
to
cuss dis-
with
to be
frankness.
[ ?]
ning begin-
real
can generallyadmitted, and English and Ameriwriters are acting on the admission, that the only of recogaporrheta of Freemasonry are the modes nition, of and the peculiarand distinctive ceremonies
; and to
these
that reference of be
publiclymade provided
to
that
made
as
to
be
obscure
the initiated." We
are
to
liberal
his
we tinental con-
says
about
information
confine
shall
to
later; let
Much of
us
for the
moment
ourselves
oral.
"
the
instruction
which
is communicated
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
21
in
Freemasonry,"
the Institution There
that of
author,
such
"
orally;and
usage and
law
to
forbids this
instruction
be
written.
is in
to
regulation,a
ject subprevailedon the same in all the secret institutions of antiquity." In all the ancient mysteries the same reluctance to commit the esoteric instructions of the hierophantsto writing is apparent; and hence the secret knowledge preserved in symbols, taught in their initiations was the true meaning of which concealed from was closely the profane." Then having cited the example of the
"
strikinganalogy
what
Druids
"
and
of the
Kabbalists, he continues
Church
The
Christian
eminently certain of the mysterious dogcautious not to commit mas of their religion to writing,lest the surrounding acquainted with what they Pagans should be made understand neither could nor appreciate. St. Basil, {De SpirituSane to,) treatingof this subject in the receive the dogmas transWe mitted fourth century, says : those have which to us by writing, and the apostles, beneath the mystery from descended to us of oral tradition;for several things have been handed without down to us writing, lest the vulgar, too familiar with our dogmas, should lose a due respect
were
'
observed the succeeding the apostolic, The oral instruction. early Fathers
custom
of
for them.' be
an
And
to
he
further and
asks,
'
How
should
it
ever
becoming
account
write
circulate
of
those
to
not
PP-
permitted 549-550).
You
are
{Encyclopedia,
doubtless
jostledinto
the
com-
22
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
pany and
one
of the pagan mystics,the school of Pythagoras, modern Masonry, as a secret societythat taught doctrine its
a
to
the
common
for many
which
"
we
are
traveling. The
Christian
of discipline
in the
early
object and scope those were clearly implied by Dr. and death to be known it was Mackey. When pillage as a Christian; when demagogues fanned the popular passions by representingthe followers of Christ as of the worshipers of an ass's head, and the sacrament the slaying of an as body and blood of the Master infant and the drinking of its blood it was nothing but the ordinary reserve of common prudence not to manifest would be abused to everybody what by many. But there was to the comno mon teachingof one religion There people and of a different one to proficients. was no purposely deceiving initiates into believing that they possessed the light,while smiling serenely
ages is not far other than
denied, but
"
at
their
folly.
'
There
was
when
was as no
the
days
of
this
cipline dis-
There
secrecy
one not can-
essential
connection
as
of
we
and the
no
in
Masonry,
and
in which,
exist without
never,
the other.
no
There
was
oath the
that
under
circumstance, would
made
to
of any
to
doctrine
be
non-Christians,for, again
AH these
the
vindicate
of their faith.
confound
regards
testimonyof
one
who
INSTRUCTION
23 the
chapter of
his book
on
Holy
chapter from which the alleged texts are taken, will clearly perceivethat there is not the slightest ferent question of an exoteric and esoteric doctrine,difand opposed; the one good enough, though false,for common ited humanity; the other, true, but limHe is merely asserting, to the elect. the Catholic as Church does, the value of Apostolictradition as a of divine faith and doctrine. He is teaching source from his knowledge of the human heart, the influence of mystery in exciting attention. He reminds that us that in the Jewish religion familiarity begets contempt the Holy of Holies to be approached by the was at a fixed time. a High Priest alone, once year, and In the same he argues, did the Apostles and the way, the dignity of Christian early Fathers preserve of Saint mysteries. The texts themselves, moreover, the first,are not Basil, especially correctly quoted.
"
Ghost,
the
Two united
disconnected
sentences
are
scarcelyrecognized,to liberty reputableauthors. say the least,among for confidingthe arcana tion The to oral tradireasons thus set forth by Dr. Mackey : are In the first place, by confiningour secret doctrines of tradition,all danger of and landmarks to the care
form
one;
a
"
controversies
and
schisms
among
Masons
and
in
these traditions, avoided. Of effectually is the interpreter, the Grand Lodge in each jurisdiction and and to its authoritative interpretation every Mason is bound to submit. Lodge in the jurisdiction every is no There book, to which every brother may refer, according to whose language each one may interpret expressions sometimes, views, and whose his own sometimes obscure and might perhaps,equivocal,
Lodges
is
"
"
24 afford
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
and
as
ample
The
are
sources
of
wordy
contest
as
doctrines
themselves,
the
well
contained
in the memories
as
of the
Craft;
decide
and of
the the
Grand
lawful
representatives
to
alone been
competent
hence have
correctlypreserved,and
it is that
so
is its true is
no
institution
been
few
to
such
unimportant
fundamental
noted
we
controversies doctrines."
with
respect
essential and We
nor
(Ibid., p. 550.)
it
sake reasoning,not for its own sight think it satisfactory, but for the ingives us into the basis of certaintyin this The tion chief, the essential instrucIt
instruction.
Masonry
the destinies decision
is oral.
most
see,
in time
eternity. And
yet
to
ultimatelyare these truths left? To that of each Grand Lodge in its own jurisdiction. But these Grand Lodges are evidently fallible;they differ with one another; they may err; they may may times at different give different decisions; are these the lights which mind in the to guide the Masonic are But will paths of truth? perhaps a fuller treatment be more in place in a succeedingchapter. If the ultimate of uncertaintyof the interpretation
your
to
oral
or
esoteric
doctrine
is
so
great, what
to
we
committed itself,
are
the
willing to judge
to
you
by
your
on
"
pen,
and
turn
for information
your
article
"Uniformity
It is
a
of Work."
"
fact," you
however
in
never
Masonry,
be
say, much
must
attained.
This
in all insti-
26
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
the
"
lead
men
to
diminish,
is not
or
to
augment,
the
parts of any
certain limits
within prescribed
by
rule."
there may is
no
book," you
his
own
"
say,
to
which
one
refer, whose
language
views."
each
according to
we
ask, such
of be denied
an
enemy in Masonic
Are
thought
Must the
the Brethren
the
written
that
rule, and
it,in order
vagariesof
you confer
to
be
on
ject suband
disputes as
word in
written?
not,
does
written oral
reason
that
law?
No,
Dr.
no,
cannot,
in
justice, accept
nor
which
the motives
which
thank
on
thank
him, and
we
do
the
qualityof
and the
that he casts important side-lights the truth presented to Masonic didates, cansubjection which degree of mental of them. All this will aid
us
Freemasonry
later in But from
demands
the claims of the Order. weighing fairly It would let us continue our seem quotation. that the evil of nonthis," says Dr. Mackey, conformity could be removed only by making all the
"
"
monitorial; and
a
so
much
has
this
been
expedient,that
ritual
was
written
the
few
remedy
oral
would character
the
disease.
It
the
of
that
as
Masonry
an
is indebted
ization. organa
would
soon
become
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION divest
27
printed,ritual Freemasonry]
and would who
would of
cease
its attractions
to
secret to the
tion, associa-
offer
reward
laborious
its mysticalscience. Its sought to master philosophyand its symbolism would be the same, but the books containing them would be consigned to the shelves of a Masonic their pages cussed to be dislibrary, by the profane as the common property of the while the. Lodges, having no mystery within antiquary, their portals, would find but few visitors, and certainly workers." no (Ibid., pp. 843, 844.) Truly Masonry floats between Scyllaand Charybdis.
student
The
diseases
of
error
inherent
to
oral
instruction
are
it cannot of
strong
are
within
it.
For
if its
truths would
our on
race,
not
moulder interest
cause
Masonic fruit
shelves, but
would
be
with the
and
by
every
earnest
worker
of
truth.
Secrecyis but
It is not
sake ; for the The
hides
what
lies behind.
of itself
mind mind
good, or to be valued for its own it is an obstacle shutting the eyes of out from truth, which is the mind's object and good.
must
"
put the obstacle aside to embrace, to enjoy its object, what, then, must we judge of the if we told that once value of this object in itself, are
that
to
to
the
veil is removed,
no
charm,
be
loved?
it has
value,
no
removed
the
from
the of
realm
of
"
the
weakness
28
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
arisingmainly
Masonic
"
from
"
the
teachers,"
reward
master to
would
to
offer," as you
who
must
tell us,
the laborious
student
sought
cold, calm
same
to
its
mystical
science," what
symbolism
realms influence of of
and
error
this and
uncertainty, and
subject to
the
ignoranceand. fancy ? The second mitting reason given by Dr. Mackey for comthe essentials of Masonry to oral instruction, who desires to is, that by compelling the craftsman in his profession, its make to commit any progress of doctrines to memory, there is a greater probability their being thoroughly studied and understood." And he endeavors to support this contention by appealing who better of to the case are Bright Masons acquainted with the esoteric and unwritten portion of the lectures, which they were compelled to acquire under tion, a instructor,and by oral informacompetent than with that which is published in the Monitors, and, therefore, always at hand to read." (Encyclopadia, p. 550.) Had tinction not Dr. Mackey kindly instructed us in the disbetween and learned Bright Mason of the Mason," and told us that the parrot-like memory is not to be compared with the instructed mind of one the other, we might have been caught in the web of his argument. Parrot Masons," Bright Masons," and Masons of the Knife and Fork Degree," know
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
more
of the
not
oral
lectures the
than
of Monitorial
are
because hence
former
oral, and
to
written
and
they were
be received
hand
Masons;
whereas
they have
been
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
29
compelled to read the Monitorial part and hence go as they have gone on for years, repeating what on, without they have learned any conception of its true meaning" {Encyclopedia,p. 561). His argument, if true, would the uselessness of all beautifully prove because the indolent, and lazy,and people who writing, never of the oral than they read, know more by means do by that of the written word.
"
perhaps,most is also alluded to the Craft," and to by the case of the Druids, because they did their doctrines to be divulged to the common
reason
His
third
is the
"
"
one,
familiar Ciesar
not
in
'
"
It
reasons," he
"
"
cludes, con-
to avoid employed, idle controversies and endless disputes the ; to preserve of our Order from secrets decay; and, by increasing the difficulties by which they are to be obtained, to of their being forgotten diminish the probability ; and, them from the unhallowed to secure finally, gaze of the that the oral instructi it is for these reasons profane and still confirst instituted, of Masonry was tinues Its secret doctrines observed. to be religiously the preciousjewels of the Order, and the memories are those the well-guardedcaskets in which of Masons are jewels are to be preserved with unsullied purity. And the said in our it is appropriately ritual,that hence
" "
"
'
attentive
ear
receives
the
the
sound of
from
the
instructive
are
"
tongue,
and the
pp.
secrets
Freemasonry
safely
lodged in
Our
faithful breasts.'
clopedia, {Encyon
readers
make
their
own
reflections
the
oral
instruction,
30
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
they will
what
treat
"
find
it,as
we
do, difficult
to
harmonize hear
with him
duty
as
well
as
the
interest of the
of
Lodges,"
in of of
he the
no
says,
"to
efforts
members
of acquisition method
more
Masonic
libraries. of
establishment
not
of
Grand
Lodge libraryis
but it is objectionable, of far less value and importance than a Lodge library. The originaloutlay of a few dollars in the beginning for its establishment, and of a few more annually for its maintenance and
a
increase, would
and
secure
to
every
Lodge
for the
reading
their
at
improvement
books
on were
The
very
Masonic
meeting, and
or
ready
of
to
at
their hands
them
never
for the
mere
asking
induce
a
the
trouble
taking
who the
down,
yet have
would read
many
brethren
read
subjectof Masonic
tory his-
thoughtfulmunicipalities placepublicfountains in their parks and the corners of streets, that at the famished wayfarer may allayhis thirst and receive physicalrefreshment, so should Masonic Lodges place
such that intellectual fountains in reach mental the
"
As
of their members,
refreshment.
Such
they might
are
enjoy
fountains
libraries;and
less, upon or and fiftydollars, more yet does without commits a Masonic a fence oflibrary, grave to diffuse that ; for it refuses, or at least neglects, its children which its obligationrequires lightamong
it to do.
spends
MASONIC
"
INSTRUCTION
31
the one without and the other Lodges with a library the difference is this, that the one will have more ignorance in it than the other. If a Lodge takes delightin an ignorant membership, let it forego a library. If it thinks there is honor and well reputation and pleasure in having its members of instruction." informed, it will give them means
two
" "
Of
What
need
so
the
well who
guarded
have
of Masons while
been
by
and instruction,
to
ready
impart instruction
breasts, to
the
fountain
by
the
means
which
use
of faithful
language
to
of
ritual, is hard
as
the
initiated, un-
see,
unless,
more
we
have
believe, there
truth. Consistent
not
is
or our
inconsistent author
of
himself, it
is not He
content
matters
to
us,
the
oral instruction
with
of
is in favor
the of
the
tenets
benefit of the
"
Brethren.
"
Years
ago," he
which
an
says,
now
we
uttered
this
to
subject
sentiments
"
we
take
occasion
repeat.
can
of
he of
of reading,no Mason adequate course of any distinction in the ranks take a position now yond the Fraternity. Without extending his studies bewhat is taught in the brief lectures of the Lodge, the end and nature never can properly appreciate The science. lectures Freemasonry as a speculative
Without
constitute but
muscles
and
the
nerves
skeleton
of
Masonic
science.
are
The
to
and
blood-vessels, which
32
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
vigor to
of
that
be
found
in the research
commentaries Masonic
them
which have p.
the
learning and
to
writers
given
the
Masonic
student."
clopedia, (Ency-
617).
are
But
if such
the
benefits
of the
Masonic
found
be but
"
less life-
skeleton," if they have not, pardon the mixing of and muscles, and life-giving the nerves, vigor figures,
of written that
commentaries,
has
who its
is
so
simple as
to
to
fancy
Masonry
as
confided
faithful
arcana
oral traditions
merely
"
the most
means
of and
preservation?
on disquisitions that there is danger, Masonic he continues, subjects," lightto the world through them, of giving ,too much without, has not the slightest support from experience. In England, in France, and in Germany, scarcely any restriction has been observed writers, except by Masonic is emphaticallyesoteric; and to what as yet we is wiser in those do not believe that the profane world
The
objections to
treatises
"
countries
than
in In
our
own
in respect to of these
as no
the
secrets
of
Freemasonry.
world without of
our
the
face
has art,
remained
as
aporrheta
written
"
if
been within
on
the
subject;
"
while have
enlightened and their views of instructed, and Masonry (not charitable society, but as a philosophy, as a social or a have been elevated and enlarged." science,a religion)' As is, little by little, see. Dr. Mackey though you often incidentally, ideas about introducingus to new
1
the
Craft
themselves
The
as italics,
in
is Dr.
this work,
are
ours
34
"
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
and
that
Masonry
and
existed
flourished,
that
was
nious harmo-
happy,
with
(Ibid.)
too
We
agree
Mackey
much
cannot
and printed,
read about
the Institution,
to
hence
our
for those be
whom
or
bulky
We the
works
agree
inaccessible
Fraternity
the
should
writing
can
those be
sure
understand
art, for
Masonic
test
only
we
receiving true
is the best
doctrine.
We the
are
that Dr.
time
of
so
merit, and
many years,
Mackey's works,
works of the
after
American
a ment compliflattering Fraternity,is at once to their Masonic merit, and an acceptableassurance that in following their guidance we cannot stray. our
In him
"
Introduction
we
have
ventured
:
to
differ with
concluding paragraph
men
is,that
Masonic
who
are
not
Masons
no
never
authentic
works. could
They
not
have
interest
topicsdiscussed, and
a
understand
which
a
them,
the writer
as
want
of
can a
the
preparatory
what
education
were
Lodge
even
alone trench
supply. Therefore,
little on
of may be
arcana
to
considered
Masonry, there is no danger of his thus making an improper revelation to improper persons." {Encyclopcedia, p. 617.) The truth is that we, the profane, sometimes do read
authentic Masonic
being reallythe
works;
the
truth
is that
we
are
intenselyinterested in their topics; and we hope that Dr. Mackey, though purposely obscure, will still leave sufficient lightto understand, in substance us at least, their real meaning.
You
have thus
set
before
you,
kind
reader, the
two
MASONIC
methods the
are
INSTRUCTION
35
and written. of
or
of Masonic
oral instruction,
or
To
esoteric
doctrines
Masonry
exoteric.
confided; to
number and
the
latter,the monitorial
of the
The
nature
written,and
of mouth
Masonic
only, Lodges,
and
things forbidden to be communicated by word and Masons by some In proporby others. tion,
or
therefore, to such
the
restriction
extension, will be
in Masonic
matters,
the treatment
of matters,
books.
Masonry, admitting that it has arcana, which it will not expose of our to the unholy gaze fane proand does, that admitting, as it must eyes; and its own members those of a lower even degree among of a higher, are as sedulouslybarred from the arcana from all of them, defends the profane, are its as we, gions, conduct by the example of all the various pagan reliand seeks make to an primitiveChristianity if the religion of the Divine abettor of such practice, as
Master, instituted
to to teach
American
commanded
He had manded," comthings whatsoever had presently proved recreant to its trust and other people one doctrine, retainingantaught the common different and secret, for its adepts. one, In this oral doctrine, each Grand Lodge in its own there is no of appeal is the last court jurisdiction judging for oneself; no disputing;no right of private be received as final. interpretation ; the judgment must teach them all
"
"
Thus hence
are
schisms
in matter
of doctrine
"
avoided
is
no
"
and
that there
so
few
and
such
controversies
with
doctrines."
It is true
that
{Encyclopedia, p. 550).
it is
this ultimate
36
true
MASONIC
that it has
no
erred ; it is of
it is
error
standard
is
evidently no
schisms, therefore,is no credit to Masonry ; for since have rule of truth, being, as we it is no capable seen,
of of
error,
the
boasts, may
human better mind. than
of
which
it
evil of the is
Schism
in the
cause
of truth
infinitely
of the of
In
however, spite,
standard is
ultimate
truth,
without intellect,
recourse,
obliged to
guardian and precious jewels of Masonic depositary of the most uninstructed often to ignorant and truth, is confided is of its very nature exposed to constant masters; to have changes and variations ; can be shown actually the treachery undergone important variations,due to of judgment and the fertility of memory, the weakness which will lead men of imagination to forget, to
oral
instruction,moreover,
the
"
"
"
or
to
system
which
written
by
can
be
no
abandonment
it with
must
errors
cling to
and
inconveniences, with
or
all its
uncertainties,
perish. Rob it of its secrecy and you rob it of its life. Its philosophy,its symbols, its doctrines, would be the same, but they would be only so much literary rubbish be on antiquarian shelves; its system would its Lodges deserted. despised, In strange contradiction the praises to all this are of Masonic ears poured into our writings, their importance and necessity. The difference paramount
MASONIC
INSTRUCTION
37
instruction
but
no
"
between
is this, library, that the former will have more ignorance in them than the latter. Far then from with restingcontent the oral instructions of the Lodge, Dr. Mackey calls lifeless skeleton of Masonry, such instructions the which the written to commentaries, by imparting muscles and nerves and blood-vessels," give vitality, and beauty, and health, and vigor." (Supra, pp. 31, 32.) Why, then, not take the essentials of Masonry from the the treacheryof memory, of under the dominion of imaginathe fertility weakness of judgment, and tion," of the vivifying hands confide them and to to mankind written instruction? Why, if its message be of the supreme importance that Masonry pretends,
a
" "
oral have
"
"
"
would
to the
written
word
Dr.
Mackey's
reasons
do
not
the satisfy
mind.
We
would
suggest others, but, for the moment, in its nature, First, that its message,
the veil of much need its purposes, may hide essential features, which, if revealed
otherwise whom Masonry would repel many attract. Secondly, that by revealing everything at the means, employed by Masonry, as so tactfully once, in the of making its members Bro. Pike assures us, much, while they low degrees believe that they know of pretendingto be about to reveal the know little, light,while having no intention of doing so, could would
have of but this need system place in the Masonic lutely hiding in darkness, this need of deceptionis absoit claims to if Masonry be, what unintelligible
no
"
be, the
"
Teacher
of Truth."
CHAPTER
III
Means
of
Instruction
in
American
Freemasonry
We methods its
means
have which
set
forth American We
in
the
preceding
uses
chapter
in
the
Masonry
now
imparting
upon the and
instruction.
which it and
shall
briefly
are
touch
employs.
how
can
They
called
symbols
the
allegories;
with that
intimately
be of the
they
are
connected fact
Masonry,
easily gathered
definition when veiled
to
from which
they
of is
a
"
form itself
part
to
Masonry
them,
that and
gives
it
its initiates
of
it tells in
system
morality
allegory
illustrated doctrines
by symbols."
from the
to
Allegory
eyes of for
conceal
prying
the the
uninitiated Masonic
"
profane;
system
the
means
symbols
morals of
irradiate
of
which
it would
impart
Masonic
a
instruction.
; and
But
we
what
is
symbol
the
what of
an
allegory
of its
Here
if
we
must
beg
to
indulgence
us
our
readers,
a
invite
a
them
follow
in which in
the
study
draws
matter
haps perfrom
little the
so
dry,
to
but
interest
what
are
being
would in
key
and
our
unlock,
great
Its
part,
secrets
Masonry
bound make unless up little
we
sedulously
in
conceal.
we
symbols
allegories ;
study
the of
can
expect
to
headway
understand and
American
of be
Masonry
both.
rewarded A
clearly
nature
little attention
patience
will
by symbol,
useful
knowledge. Seeking,
therefore,
a
definition
of
as
used
38
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
39
Masonry, we find it on p. 466 of Dr. Mackey's Lexicon of Freemasonry. A symbol, he says, is a sensible image used to express occult but analogical an signification." In a Masonic symbol, therefore,there are requisite three conditions: ist, that the symbol be something capableof being perceivedby the senses ; 2d, that some relation exist between the thing representing and the thing represented 3d, and this is the distinctively ; and
"
in
Masonic
occult. is not
condition,that
Whence
the
be
it is evident
not
secret, is
Masonic.
to the Craft. by everybody, is surelynot peculiar Be not, therefore, easily deceived for the future. You will see the Ark; you will will see the Anchor; you will even the letter G the Cross; you see gaze upon will amid of light as a symbol of the Deity ; you a halo
think
that you
understand
all these
"
you
will have
no
in your all these mind, in interpreting own difficulty, evident? And what simpler or more yet you will meaning is sadly err if you think that the Masonic what you imagine. To be a Masonic meaning, it must be, and fix this firmly in your mind, secret or occult. the very Your monest are plainestand cominterpretations istic of the profane world ; they lack the characterof Dr. Mackey's definition they are not quality
"
"
occult.
Allegory
p.
or
we
find
"
treated
in
Dr.
Mackey's Encyclopedia
"
56.
he Allegory," there
a
narrative
a
in which
is
a a
discourse
figurative
literal
parison, comone.
sense,
or
meaning; the being intended, by analogy or patent sense concealed or to indicate the figurative
patent and
connected derivation
from
Its
the
Greek
dAAos
and
ayopav,
40
to
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
say
where
language
is
one
thing
and
the
character
allegory."
"
It has
been
said," he continues,
between
an
"
that
there is
a
no
essential There An
difference in
allegory and
symbol. previous
is not
character.
conventional the
to
this
learn
from
the
previous understanding. sprig symbol of the immortality of the soul. know such only because meaning had
determined It when the
acacia
But been
this
tionally conven-
symbol
an
was
first established.
allegory whose is imperfect. The meaning is obscure enigmatical and hence meaning should be easy of interpretation; habite Lemiere, a French poet, has said: L'allegorie un parent palais diaphane Allegory lives in a transpalace. All the legends of Freemasonry are less allegorical, or truth there more and, whatever
' '
"
be in some of them in a historical point of view, may it is only as allegories or legendary symbols that they
are
of
importance.
therefore
'
very system of
The
have
to
be
trated illus-
by symbols.
What
our
"
composed,
Masonic
viz:
the has
Fraternity;
been
us
every
system
posed com-
expresslyto keep
light from
who
42 sonic
were
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
"
emblem in
its
meaning
must
be
"occult;
and
we
blissful
the of
"
Masonic
mere
agreement.
individual
It is for
Mason,"
the secret (Morals and Dogma, p. 218), "to its symbols and a wise of Masonry, by reflection upon is said and done in and analysis of what consideration the work. Masonry does not inculcate her truths. hints them, perand briefly; She states them, once or haps them and darkly; or interposes a cloud between be dazzled Seek, and ye by them. eyes that would shall find,' (The italics here knowledge and truth." are Pike's.) And again (Morals and Dogma, p. 148), "These than morals. degrees are also intended to teach more The of Masonry have more symbols and ceremonies than one meaning. They rather conceal than disclose the Truth} They hint it only, at least; and their varied meanings are only to be discovered by reflection and study." Even the Entered sonry, Apprentice, the novice in Mais jput upon his guard by Masonry itself. It must be confessed," says the Masonic Ritualist, "that of the interpretations given in p. 41, many this section (the second section of the lecture) are the cultivated to to mind, and seem unsatisfactory have been adopted on the principle of the old Egyptians, who made of symbols to conceal rather than use their thoughts." to express These sufficient to put us, too, texts are certainly our guard; for he whom they will not teach, upon
' " "
says discover
Bro.
Pike
"
Except
in the words
conceal
and
disclose
are
ours.
OF
INSTRUCTION
Is he He
43
waiting for
wait
in She truths.
Masonry
vain.
states
"
inculcate
does and
the
not
truth?
will
Masonry
once
inculcate her
Bro. but
them,
briefly," says
are
Pike. his.
means
p. 42. Let
us
The
italics
not
ours
the
imparting of
For in
its doctrines
its purpose.
inherent of
apart
from
force
indefiniteness
gory, symbol and alleboth will easilycover a hence, permitting of a teach a varietyof lessons
indefiniteness,moreover,
is the
surest
guard safe-
presenting its symbols to the world, Masonry can easily appear to be making a candid manifestation of its nature. It can point with nesses. pride to these symbols and appeal to them as its witDo the crown? know crown"?
Ah! that is that
"
the
see
cross?
do
union?
you do
not
see
you
wear
not
he
that is
bears the
matter. to
cross,
will
the
But
a
this
Masonic
meaning?
different able
Masonry
attractive
are
is thus
lessons, which
not
"
really Masonic,
"
for
Masonic
truths
are
only
can
stated," and
hinted
at,
perhaps darkly."
support
of the
It
sympathies and
cence, will, in all innoprofane world, which other import no believe that the symbols have than that which common humanity attributes to them. those of the lower degreesby seeming hoodwink It can ing it does not explain,and by renderto explain what familiar with symbols,of the full import of them
uninstructed
44
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
which
for
an
they
have
no
conception:either
leave them
ulterior
manifestation,
that
prepare if it considers in
them such
manifestation
prudent, or
of of its
blissful
cannot
noranc igin-
bear
light. Now,
definiteness definiteness
"
parties realize that institute the symbol you will presently number of meanings that the immensely increased of the the symbol may convey, as well as the difficulty uninstructed in fathoming its true meaning. is But perhaps if we quote from Dr. Mackey, who than we naturally better acquainted with the matter
from
agreement
of
"
are,
"
you
will grasp
to
there was Porphyry," he says, this distinction between the hieroglyphicand S3niibolic method of writing among the Egyptians : that the former expressed the meaning by an imitation of the pictureof smoke the thing represented, when as the ascending denoted fire;and the latter allegorizing used to hawk was a subject by an enigma, as when symbolize the sun, or a fly to express the qualityof was impudence. The former of these methods open
According
reserved it; the latter was and for the purpose of mystic instruction, by the priests I have as already said, communicated only to was,
to
all who
chose
to
learn
the How
the
(Lexicon of Freemasonry^ p. 467.) difficult the enigmatical system covery disrendered how it screened by the uninitiated; carefully ideas to be concealed; what latitude of interpretation it permitted the examples adduced abundantly
"
initiated."
demonstrate Another
advantage, by
value
no
means
small
one,
"
seeing the
justlyattached
to
Masonic
commen-
MEANS
tanes
OF
INSTRUCTION
the Masonic
45
pen
a
"
is, that
it allows
a
wider
which of treatment it liberty could otherwise scarcely expect to enjoy. For apart the advantage of imparting knowledge to the from while leaving the uninitiated utterlyunininitiated, structed in the doctrines peculiarto the Order, the
sphere of
action and
Masonic
writer
is able
to
enumerate
the and
different different
different times
in
by
question,without
more
needing to
Each
incline to
one
than
to
another.
select his
own
according to interpretation
him in the to meaning orally communicated der Lodge; and the innocent profane,while he will wonin instructing interest Masonry can have what will charitably, its votaries in certain interpretations, if he be a Christian,supfrom a Christian standpoint, pose that such are merely given as interpretations information, and not as integral, literary nay essential Some examples will system. parts of the Masonic the for instance take illustrate this point. Let us symbol of the Rose. the ancients," The symbolism of the rose among
"
says
our
author,
Venus
"
was
as
to
icated dedFirst,as it was the the goddess of love, it became twofold. and hence
came
symbol
'
of
the
secrecy,
the which
under
rose,' to indicate
that
in confidence.
as
the
dedicated to Venus Again, as it was of of the generative energy personification the symbol of immortality. In this it became
more
recondite
sense
it was,
in Christian
'
life symbology,transferred to Christ, through whom and immortality were brought to light.'The 'rose of Canticles is always apof the Book plied of Sharon' Fuller hence {Pisgah Sight of to Christ, and and that prime rose lily.' Palestine) calls him
' "
46
"Thus
we
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
of the significance the cross as a rose on part of the jewel of the Rose Croix degree. Reghellini (vol. i, p. 358), after the symbol of the rose was showing that anciently, that the the cross of immortality, says and secrecy, united two a cross resting on symbols of a rose the secret of immortality. Ragon always indicated it is the with him in opinion and says, that agrees he subBut sequently of writing that dogma. simplest mode gives a different explanation,namely, that female the the emblem of the as was rose ple, princiand the cross or triple phallus of the male, the versal two together, like the Indian lingam, symbolized unihas adopted the generation. But Ragon, who theory of the astronomical origin of Freemasonry, like this subject all theorists, often carries his speculations on to extreme an point. A simpler allusion will better suit the character and teachings of the degree in its modern is the symbol organization. The rose of Christ, and the cross the symbol of his death the two the cross united, the rose suspended on signify his death on the cross, whereby the secret of In a word, the taught to the world. immortality was
see," he
adds, "the
"
"
rose
on
the
cross
is
Christ
crucified."
(Encyclobegins
with far any
have
ends
symbolism
Christ. each
which The
to
and
with from
limits allow
are
enough
number the like
removed of
other
of
interpretations according to the taste of interpreter. Dr. Mackey tells us that Ragon, all theorists, often carries his speculations too
does But not,
more
far; he
here.
however,
of such
say
that
such in its
is the
own
case
symbolism
time.
MEANS
In
OF
INSTRUCTION
47
of the
spite of Dr.
nature
Christian
must
question
from
so
the
true
genuineness
Masonic
his
doctrine The
as
judged
it is
the
standpoint.
it of the
fact that
plainlyinculcated,robs
doctrines
of
"
inculcated."
lest
our
are
hinted
"
at,
But
reader much
that
we
are,
after that
urally nat-
all, harping
we are
too
stretchingtoo be supposed to
Albert
aid the
"
Bro.
Pike, who
makes the
subject.
Each and of
us
such
faith
creed, of
this
of the "as
Rite),
Like
see
he
says,
to
him
proper.
the Master
Khurum,
and
in which
some
the
sufferingsof Christ; others those of Grand Master of the Templars ; others first Charles, King of England; and
annual
to
descent
of
the
Sun
at
the
regions of darkness, the basis ancient of this of many an legend; so the ceremonies degree receive different explanations; each interpreting them for himself, and being offended at the interpretation
winter
the of
"
no
no
other." other
In
way,"
he
continues,
"
could
Masonry
Universality; that character its origin." has ever been peculiar to it from which Christian {Morals and Dogma, p. 276). The essentially of the explanationgiven by Dr. Mackey nature
possess
its character
of
48
as
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION foundation
as
has of
therefore
the others
no
in fact.
Masonically any
the
"
is
legitimate. For
"
brethren
of from how be
religious belief have been excluded particular this degree [the Rose Croix], it merely shows gravely the purposes and plan of Masonry may
For whenever the door of any is closed
misunderstood.
againsthim who believes in one God of the other and the soul's immortality, on account of his faith,that degree is Masonry no tenets longer. the symbols of No has the right to interpret Mason this degree for another, or to refuse him its mysteries, with the explanation and take them if he will not superadded." The degree therefore is commentary ity, Christian. If restricted to Christiannot essentially it is no longer Masonry, as Bro. Mackey knows
degree
as
"
well
as
Bro.
Pike.
Listen, my
brother," continues
the
Bro.
symbols
of
the
"
further
Pike's.)
"
The
Cross," he says,
of in
has
been
sacred upon in
on
symbol
all the in
from
the earliest
Antiquity.
the
It is found
world,
was
Egypt,
the
to
Persia, and
Bouddha oak
Boudhave
of
Ireland.
said
died upon it. The Druids cut an built their held it sacred, and
into its
shape and
form. the
was
temples
was on
in that
of the It
world, it
a
cruciform
said to revered
have in
expired,pierced
Mexico."
arrows.
(Ibid.
Italics
Pike's.)
50
"
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
"
To
"
the
word
INRI
on
[he
Crux
does Ansata
not
speak
over
of
tials] ini-
inscribed he
the
"
the
ter's Mas-
Seat,"
The
says, Christian
inscription upon
lesus Nasarenus
the
cross
on
which
Rex it with
ludcEorum.
one
sages
Antiquity connected
of
the
greatest
secrets
tion. regenera-
renovatur They interpretedit thus, Igne natura chemical is renovated tegra; [entire nature by fire]. The Alor
Hermetic
Masons
framed
for
it
this
And the Jesaphorism, Igne nitrum roris invenitur. uits are charged with having applied to it this odious four letters axiom, lustum necare reges impios. The
are
the
initials of
"
the
Hebrew the
words
seas or
that
water
represent
;
Nour,
fire; Rouach,
How and
we
the
leheschah, the
repeat here."
read
p.
it I need 291.
Dogma,
Italics
Pike's.)
You
certain You
can
of your sign,reader; will you learn to doubt? take it as a Christian It sign if you wish. may stand for lesus Nasarenus Rex ludceorum, Jesus
of Nazareth,
King
"
of the
interpretation
Masonic
the
it,but the
this is around
a us
common
so derstands un-
is excluded
from
therefore lacks the interpretation it is plain and impress of Masonic truth, for first, obvious, not occult ; and secondly,it is known to everybody, and hence not distinctively Masonic. The second the mark. interpretation comes nearer You Perhaps you hear it for the first time. never imagined that I. N. R. I. could mean anything but what Jesus of Nazareth, King of you held it to express, the Jews." The of antiquity, we are told. sages
"
light.
This
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
those
not
SI
states
them."
term
Of
what
antiquityis
Of the times R. I. and
there before
question?
Christ?
The
No
is has
ambiguous.
used the
proposed it as a renovatur symbol of the sentence Igne natura Integra. The and its meaning is read into the symbol, sentence Bro. Pike well knows, by those that came after the as time of the Savior; the initials of the words of the that sennot cross are tence. copied from and framed upon like to know But perhaps you would what found prointo this symbol these sages have read secret author himself when mits, adit,as our they connected
sage
"
"
I. N.
with renovated
the
title
on
the
"
cross
Entire
nature
is
by fire." By the heat of the fire,metals, refined and kingdom, are representing the mineral welded together; by the heat of the sun, the flowers and plants of the vegetablekingdom thrive and reproduce desire is the their kind; by the heat of sensual animal concupiscence kingdom renewed ; and in human The fire of passion is what, born. is the human race
as we
shall
presently show,
the
cross.
these
sages
have
nected con-
with
generously allows every its inscription and the cross cording acinterpret to be true, his taste, such interpretation,
Pike
must
be
in accord
with
has
his
a
-own,
for
the
cross
in the
meaning peculiarto itself; timate inan reader will be surprisedto find what and our of the so-called sages connection the principle of the degree. has with the cross its peculiar But meaning in this degree, is that says Bro. Pike, given to it by the Ancient Egyptians,"
Rose
Croix
degree
"
on
p.
290
of
the
work
from
which
we
quote.
52
"
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
Thoth
or
Phtha
is in
representedon
his with hand
a
the Crux
or
oldest
Ansata
over
uments monor
carrying
Ankh He is
the
[a Tau
so seen
cross,
on
ring
it].
Noh
at
tablet of
and
Shufu,
builders
greatest of
Pyramids
Meghara, in the peninsula of Sinai. It was the hieroglyphic for life, and with a triangle prefixed meant life-giving.To us, therefore, it is the symbol of Life of that life that emanated from the Deity, and of that Eternal all hope ; Life for which we through our faith in God's infinite goodness." Without, for the present, either being impressed author, or questioning by the seeming piety of our the nature of the cross, the it, let us seek light on Crux the Ansata, peculiar to the degree ; for it is not
Wady
"
cross
of
Christ
as
understand
it, since
it
we
differs
must
in form, go
to
and
peculiar
Phtha
"
meaning
the
the
god
Thoth
or
of
ancient
Egyptians.
"
Phtha,"
to
says
Bro.
McClenachan
in
his
dum Adden-
Dr.
the
of the world
; he
was
at times
represented with
holding a sceptre of four and yellow; fire, air,water, and Egyptian idea, therefore, regards the
the
and
creation,
Ansata
I.
on
not to
redemption
of
man.
The
Crux R.
refers
the
beginning of
life.
The
I. N.
;
would be, in this idea, lammim, water it, fire;Rouach, air; and lebeschah, earth; the of universal But
nature.
Nour,
ments ele-
four
Bro.
a
Pike
matter to
himself
hinted
will
at
not
leave
us
without
light in
darkly.
of his
We
to turn
another
page
work, interesting
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
53
of Amun, the Supreme god discoursing the of Amun's manifestations. Egyptians, and {Morals and Dogma, p. 254). He created but author, nothing," says our from him; and of him all the everything emanated
" "
where
he
is
other
Gods
were
but
.
manifestations," ..."
another
. .
The of
Creative
Power,
manifestation
the the
universe, symbolized
mouth of
kneph;
Phtha, image of the Supreme realized in the world, and the type of
in man; the
principal agent, also, of Nature, or the creative and productive Fire." Thus, kind reader, having gone to Phtha, symbolized by the have found that it signifies Crux not Ansata, we the productivefire of Nature, Christ, but the creative,
and astonished
we
that
manifested
read
the occult
sense
of I. N. is the
R.
I.,
Igni natura
such
are
some
renovatur
Masonry.
you
If may
symbolism, of the lessons of the higher degrees of the symbols otherwise, you wish to interpret do so. Masonry is tolerant of your
integra.
Such will listen to authorized
"
ignorance;
who know
but if you
the
"
teachers
parted peculiar lessons intended to be imin the various degrees, you will not attribute to obvious interpretations purposely occult symbols. Pike's.) (Italics what has been said by the enemies To take seriously of I. N. R. I. of the Jesuits to be the interpretation
by
An than it
that
Order,
of
would
such
be
to
do
it too
honor.
more
assertion
grave
infamy
of
"
fatherhood
any fair
It is said An
to
give
standing
tribunal.
unscrupulous presently It is
"
with
what
54 foundation said."
to
some
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
contained in
These
are
not
merely
"
It is
Moreover,
this been
own
principleattributed
held and
even
the
Jesuits/ has
of Bro. Pike's
falsely extended by
ar-e
brethren, if
we
to
lieve be-
{Dogma and Morals, p. 24), It [Masonry] aided in bringing about fundamental the French Revolution," whose principle Lawful to kill impious Kings," not merely, it is was but not to kill all Kings ;" and only kings,but their
Pike
" " "
queens
and
families. than
on
We Pike
to
the if
we
Craft must,
Bro. his
sons Macondemn the French authority, Revolution for having aided in bringing about a not only held but practicedsuch a principle, we brethren not lay it at the door of the American
"
mere
It is said."
symbolism
which Dr.
is
Masonry;
to
nay,
according to
"
it.
this peculiar character as says, this entire adoption of the method symbolic institution, It
"
is," he
of
instruction
by symbolism,
and other association
gives
caused the
to Freemasonry, identity
it to
from
man
every
ingenuity of
upon secured the
has
devised.
has
bestowed
it that
attachment
"
and disciples
The
Catholic
Church,"
continues,
"
is,
institution which perhaps, the only contemporaneous continues to cultivate,in some degree, the beautiful in the Catholic system of symbolism. But that which
Church of
^
is, in
great
is
measure,
incidental
and the
development,
3ee Duhr,
in
Freemasonry
MEANS blood
and
OF
INSTRUCTION
born institution,
55
with it at its has and
soul
of the
the
and
existence.
Withdraw
from
symbolism, and you take from of effete leaving behind nothing but a lifeless mass matter, fitted only for a rapid decay." (Symbolism of Freemasonry, pp. 71, 72.)
This
the admission of
our
author Masonic
as
is
an
admission
of
of
doctrine. he
beauty
of
symbolism
vesture
ever
patent, that
the be may it is not is the and
symbolism
of
imparting truth,
itself.
It
truth,
be the
the of of
Hfe-blood, the
cannot
soul soul
truth,
for
what
pressed expressed in symbols can be and is exterpret by the spoken word, for without the oral inof the Lodge or the written commentary
of
no
learned
more
Masons,
members
Masonic of the
symbols
Craft
are
would
to
than
not
they
express do to the
uninitiated.
The Mason
Masonic
of
a
lower
symbols degree
self-teachers.
no more higher,and understands this is the necessary the profane. And consequence natural of their nature, for they are not signs of an idea, but, as we have been told, they are purely conventional meaning depended signs, or signs whose of solelyupon their inventors ; and there is no means knowing what these inventors intended, unless by of mouth word or municated by writing their intention is comportant imto us. Moreover, truth, especially truth, has a beauty, an innate dignity of its form. It will bear of its accidental independent own, in itself in all its sublime investigation simplicity;
56
and
MEANS
OF
INSTRUCTION
while
it is true
that,
as
the
mind
soars
on
the
figurative wings of thought, it will naturallybecome it reaches the realms of in expression, it will feel when that it needs no longer the beauty of figures, sublimity, there God said : Let there be light. And when as will, was light." Interpret the thought as a Mason its beauty is in itself, in any figure. If Masonry, not therefore, in its philosophy, its science, its code of the occult morals, will not bear the light,if when stroyed, meaning is made plain and the symbolism is de"
it becomes soul
or
mere
mass
out withto
amine exare
life-blood, it behooves
what of the truths human it has
to
adepts
well the
jewels
figurative setting. We at length are sorry that,having dealt somewhat with Masonic symbols, we have not time at present toric Masonic to deal with allegory;but perhaps the hisvalue of Masonic myths, or legends, for our author will be justlycalls them also by these names, later in our more appropriatelyconsidered Study. The It object and importance of allegoryis known. veils from the uninitiated, what symbols reveal to the
initiated.
Thus,
means
kind
reader,
we
have
set
before
you
the
Masonry in imparting These its doctrines. means are symbols and allegory. Masonry is a system of morality illustrated by the and veiled by the other. The sonry one symbols of Manatural symbols but conventional not are ones; they are not used because of any natural resemblance between things,but in virtue of a free agreement of their inventors them. to use so They are admirably suited, therefore, to the secrecy of Masonry which
employed by
American
CHAPTER
IV
The
Shock
of
Entrance Enlighten
and
MENT
the
Shock
of
Our
away,
Study
little
in
the
previous
the
we
chapters
idea
has of
led
us
by little,from
with which
a mere
crude
American
Freemasonry
is
a mere
started;
social
that,
or
namely,
a
it
convivial,
institution and brethren.
a
affair;
for the
purely
of and
as a
charitable
established
support
of
thQ
widow
the
orphan,
We have We its of
the
caretaker heard it
aged
of
indigent
science,
and
us
spoken
been
philosophy.
Even
a
"
have
studied has
its methods
set
its
; it is
means.
object
before
system
morality."
the
In
entering, therefore,
some
portals
doctrine of Dr.
to
of and
Masonry,
to
get
we
insight
the Masonic of
into
this Ritualist
philosophy,
at
open
Mackey,
the Entered
the
First
Section
"
the
Lecture the
given
first It of
prentice Apto
practically
in
instruction the
"
given
Shock become of will
the
novice
Masonry.
The
reason
contains the
name
of
Entrance."
evident
as we
copy
the
we
passage.
For
our
the
sake
pleteness, com-
however,
begin
the
quotation
with
the
beginning
"
of
the
section. of
The
Entered
Apprentice's
consists
ture," Lecof
a
Dr.
of
a
Mackey,
the
"principally
of of it is be the
recapitulation
on
ceremonies
initiation.
But,
this every
account,
knowledge
that
highly
better
necessary
to
Mason,
he
may
enabled
58
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
59
performance of the ritual of the degree. It is, however, introduced by some general heads, which qualifyus to examine the rights of others to our while they prove claims to the privileges, our character we profess." It is of course impossiblein a Monitorial work," he goes on to say, to give a full explanationof the various which used in symbols and ceremonies are the inculcation of moral and religious truths; but an allusion,in even general terms, to the most importanl in the order in which ones, they occur, will be sufficient to lead the contemplativeMason to a further ation examinof their import." (Masonic Ritualist, 22.) p. Our the passage over eye has been running lightly, its glance; religious what when arrests does a word Dr. Mackey mean when he speaks of moral and religious truths ? What has Masonry to do with religion? Does not Masonry, in the clearest of terms, protest that it interferes with no man's religion? Masonry is not a religion," says Bro. Pike (Morals He who makes and Dogma, of it a religious p. 161).
" "
"
"
"
"
"
belief,falsifies and
the
denaturalizes
it.
The
min, Brah-
tant, Jew, the Mahometan, the Catholic,the Proteseach professing his peculiarreligion, sanctioned needs retain must by the laws, by time, and by climate, for the social and have two it,and cannot religions; and prejusacred laws adapted to the usages, manners, dices of particular of men." countries,are the work Do Hold on, Bro. Pike; your pen is running toofast. for instance,is the product you hold that Catholicity, climate? We of mere thought that the believers in that church found in every clime. Do you hold, were is the words as clearlyexpress, that Catholicity your institution work merely of men ? A human adapted
"
6o
the
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
prejudicesof particular for we We ? countries merely regret the digression, a religion. But sought your denial that Masonry was is this what you hold ? The succeedingparagraph will give us the answer. But Masonry teaches, and has preserved in their purity,the cardinal tenets of the old primitive faith, which underlie and are the foundation of all religions.
to
usages,
"
manners,
and
"
ever
existed that
have truth
had with
all
overlaid
The
taught by
the Redeemer
primitive corrupted,
intermingledand alloyed with fictions than when So this,then, is your taught to the first of our race." doctrine. All religions, without exception,are mere truths. Christ, indeed, taught corruptionsof primitive these truths in their purity, but his followers alas ! did follow his example. In a brief space of time they not of his teaching,and this is the corrupted the sanctity false Christianity and at present current us among called Catholicity, Methodism, Episcopalianism,etc., And this is the theory in which etc. lic you ask a CathoBut to join? that it is downright are unaware you he be a Catholic in heart can apostasy? How and How he sincerely profess your doctrine? can and love, and obey a Church which is to him, revere,
at
the
same
time,
you.
mass
of
errors?
But
at
last
we
understand
A It is
religion, according to
a
you,
is the
work
of
men.
religious corruptionsand perversions truths superadded to and modifying the fundamental of religion; these corruptions, different in form but to the usages, and adapted prejudices of manners, and sanctioned particularcountries by the [civil] laws, by time and by climate,"are called Brahminism,
mass
of
"
"
"
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
6i
Judaism, Mahometanism, Protestantism, Catholicity, These beliefs. But are religious. These are religious has Masonry which no superimposed corruptions; additions have been made Masonry in which no by lief. beMasonry is neither a religion nor a men; religious It is religious, for it contains the pure, certainly, unadulterated basic religious truths; but it can put its hand its heart and is not a upon say boldly that it for it is identified with the corruptionsof religion,"
"
none.
Without
for it is not
more
enteringfurther
the
into this
theory at present,
our
time, and
satisfied that
readers
are
of a Catholic, to judge what sort qualified he is who mits ador a Methodist, or a Jew, or a Brahmin, that his distinctive form of religion, in as much of errors is but a mass distinctive, as superimposed revelation by the machinations of men primitive ; upon of the Entered hasten back to the Lecture we tice, Apprenhow having learned by an instructive experience, in the act of seemingly denying that Masonry, even it deals with religious matters, affirms in the strongest that it does. terms Masonry teaches, and has preserved of the old in their purity,the cardinal tenets tion primitivefaith, which underlie and are the foundaof all religions." Hence, Masonry is not a mere charitable organization;it is a science, a social or and we called a are philosophy, system of morality
"
"
than
upon
to
revere
it
as
of unadulterated
our
Let
then, continue
We
are
quotation
for
the
Masonic
Ritualist.
prepared
The
"
Shock In the
of Entrance."
symbolic science of Masonry," continues the Lodge is often Dr. Mackey, represented as a symbol of life. In this case. Lodge labor becomes the
"
62
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
symbol
actor
of
tations; tempand
laborer
the
Lodge is, then, at the time of Apprentice,a symbol of the world, and
a
type of the
to
new
life upon
which
the
is about
enter."
the
Lodge
life
"
represents human
the type of human the the life that life of
"
that is the
real human
life that
profane
this
world
but
the In
life which
it will teach
accordance,
therefore, with
idea, the
for the
labor labor
of of
the
Lodge
Masonic
into
is
only
the
term figurative
Masonic
with
life;
life-work
of
Masons
in accordance
entrance
of the
candidate
guide
life
us
his
on
life which
"
and he
author, is the
This
"
is about
understood, let
There
"
proceed.
without
our
he
on
stands the
portals,"says
new
the
Lecture,
in
threshold
of this
Masonic
life,
been
ignorance. Having
and covered with the wandering amid the errors over of the outer and pollutions profane world, he comes enquiringlyto our doors, seeeking the new birth, and of the veil which conceals divine asking a withdrawal his uninitiated sight." (Ibid, truth from pp. 22-23.) Let ask O
: us
"
our
breath
and
rather, whither,
Masonry," for it is the official Lecture that is here speaking, are you urging us with such precipitancy? Of what darkness do you speak? of what helplessness?
"
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
63
have
we dered? wan-
of
what
ignorance?
With what hither
set
come
In
what
errors we
did
not
covered?
to
We
birth, but
advance
join a
in
companionable
of
fellows;
to
ourselves
business ; to further our political aspirations ; to provide for our wives and children if death should overtake us
unexpectedly; to
assail
us
have
friends
were
in
our
need
if misfortune
unawares.
These
to
us.
advantages proposed
We
have
we
ing seekfeet
birth ; much less have any new hither in quest of divine truth. We
directed
are
We
Catholics.
receive
from
our
the Church
can
instituted its
by
Christ;
unbroken received
we lips,
which
trace ; from
lineage
who
through
the message
intervening ages
of salvation
revere
her
from
Christ's divine
it."
So
must
conscientious
Catholic in words in
speak; so,
of similar other
ently consist-
with every
his
faith,must,
import,
form of
conscientious
believer
every
religion speak. Had they been instructed,as we have been by Bro. Pike; had they accepted the Masonic all without exception, theory that all forms 6f religion,
are
of men; but
a
that, inasmuch
mass
as
tive, distinc-
nothing
of
errors
sacred
deposit ; they
would
think have you,
come
be
"
shocked." how
They
many,
are
with
kind
such ?
No
wonder
that entrance
Before
truth
to
be
the
possessor,
the
exclusive
demand
rigorous
such
truth,
has
whom
64 Masonry
How
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
received
such
deposit?
When?
Where?
that this depositconfided to prove of the treachery its oral tradition,which is subject to
will Masonry
"
memory,
the weakness
of leads
judgment,
"
and
the
of fertility
which imagination,"
to
men
to
augment
"
what
is confided
not
to
change?
divine and
Is
Masonry
does
the
work How
of
men?
What
credentials
it bear ?
all-important questionsto be of the believer in any not only by a conscientious but by every sincere man, recognizedforms of religion, howsoever indifferent in religionhe be, before accepting
birth ; before so-called divine truth ! But this
new
"
from receiving
to return
"
Masonry
Moses
at
'
its
to the Lecture.
And
here,"
from is
it continues,
as
with
is
the
burning bush,
admonition
given,
Put
off
thy shoes
standest
thou thy feet,for the place whereon holy ground ; and the ceremonial tions prepara'
dicate character, to insignificant that some to him great change is to take place in his moral and intellectual condition. He is already beginning to discover [we thank the Lecture for being so candid], that the design of Masonry is to introduce surround
a
him, all of
him
to
to
new
views with
of life and
new
its duties. in
a
He
is indeed
There
commence
lessons
new
school.
is to be, not
an
simply a change
for the
extinction
death
of the past ; for initiation is,as it were, a and a resurrection to the world life." to a new
Evidently,if Masonry be what it claims to be, its Lodge is holy ground. But is Masonry what it claims That is the questionof questions, and one to be? to be studied seriously and conscientiously by every man
who
"
has
any
regard
he
consents to
to
total extinction
of the
past,"in
order
be
par-
66
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
"
Do
you
seriouslydeclare,
the
unbiased
by
improper
mercenary
your solicitations of
upon
uninfluenced
by
motives, you
for
I do. Do you
honor, that declare, upon sincerely your of Masonry prompted to solicit the privileges you are and by a favorable opinion conceived of the Institution, desire of knowledge? a
"
"
I do. Do you
honor, that declare, upon sincerely your will cheerfullyconform to all the ancient usages you of the fraternity? and established customs I do." {Masonic Ritualist, pp. 21-22.) that his honor, declared he Having thus, upon to accord, offers himself freely and of his own prompted by a favorable opinion Masonry, desire of knowledge;" having of the Institution,and a conform to all cheerfully promised that he will established and what the ancient customs;" usages is required of him? he make to whatever protest can He came freely asking for knowledge. Knowledge, It conflicts with Masonic knowledge, is given him. his moral it shocks his previous notions nature. have sonry MaHe should to expected this. If he came have supposed for Masonic knowledge, he must that the knowledge, the principles to Masonry, peculiar that he alreadyhad. not knowledge and principles were for doctrine If he came to Masonry not Masonic, he
" "
"
"
"
"
"
"
was
But old
it?
been
come
The
tented con-
errors
with
If he had has he
to
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
the
67
friends
Masonry
"
He
cannot
urge
of importunity
for he has
of
solicitation of friends ;
of
he cannot he
express
not
fears
what
Masonry
that he
"
will
declared
comes
the Institution
and
"
desire
hand
of
and
foot
by
He
secrecy go
on.
which
mentioned, he
come
Masonry
taken him
must
freelyconsented
but
and
return
"
to ;
abide
by
its conditions
instruct
him the
he
feels
to
our
Masonry logic of
has
the
situation.
But
Lecture.
And old
to be
the and
hence
Ritualist,
him who
"
initiated.
but
a
But
new
death, to
birth.
in
is immortality,
Now,
this
birth
should
be
accompanied
with
and to symbolically, disruption of old ties and Hence the impression of symbolism of the shock at is left behind
"
of
new
ones.
by
the
entrance.
error
world
the
chains
ignorance
previouslyrestrained the candidate in moral and intellectual captivity the portal to be broken are of the Temple has been thrown sonry widely open, and Mastands before the neophyte in all the glory of its form and ever, beauty, to be fully revealed to him, howthe new birth has been completely only when be' occasion accomplished. Shall this momentous the first Shall this great event passed unnoticed? have no sensible in the Masonic life of the aspirant
" " "
which
had
or
audible
record?
Shall
the
entrance,
for
the
first
68
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
"
the birth,
"
as
it has
justlybeen
no
be
symbolized by
of
our
outward
sign?
at
Shall
the
symbolism
senseless ? who of witness
science,ever
times, with
and
its beautiful
only
all feel
Light
impressivescene
when released
children
Korah,
who,
from
God
"
of Babylon, and once more returning to captivity of their gratein the heart-burst ful Temple, exclaimed joy, O, clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto ? with the voice of triumph
' ' "
The
Shock
of the candidate
of
Entrance
"
this
Section
of the
Lecture,
from
the
symbol
of the
disruption
his
the
ties of
the
world, and
It is the
introduction
Masonry.
death and
of
the
the
new
agonies of
birth."
be
^
To
to
initiated
of the 23-24.)
initiated
symbol throes of
to
therefore, is
be
"
die
"
what
is unmasonic
to
is
to
die."
But,
tinctive kindly told us, all disdhist, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Budreligions.
as
Bro.
Pike
has
Mohammedan,
have
are a
unmasonic,
of errors,
for
each and
and
all
superimposed
mass
moral
lectual, intel-
fundamental
alone. these the
These
are
all outside
portalsof
the
the
Masonic
tivity cap-
the candidate
been the
held
broken,
of sonic Ma-
freedom
life;he begins to be
free builder
untrammeled
by
1
creed.
The italics of this passage
belong
to
the
original.
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
69
Enlightenment will open up to us in detail and with startling even more clearness,what the Shock of Entrance has stated darkly. material The lightwhich sprung forth at the fiat of the Grand Architect,when darkness and chaos were been in Masonry," says the Ritualhas ever ist, dispersed, favorite symbol of that intellectual a pp. 33-34, illumination which it is the object of the Order to in the minds of its disciples, whence have create we the titleof Sons of Light.' justlyassumed it adds, this spiritual This mental illumination," which, after his new birth,is the first demand light, for of the new name candidate, is but another
" " * " " "
But
the Shock
of
DIVINE
TRUTH
"
THE
OF ESSENCE
GOD
AND OF OF
OF BOTH MASONIC
THE
"
SOUL WHICH
THE
NATURE
CONSTITUTES
DESIGN
TEACHING."
object of the Order, says Masonry, is to create intellectual light in the soul ; imagine,kind reader, what our lightmust be ! Masonry is not to increase,to perfect it. May intellectual light; our no, it is to create we May we ask the source again ask its credentials? He Its candidate not. of its asserted power? may its doctrines. has freelycome to be taught. Masonry states
The This
prove is
so
much,
ever
so
much
easier than
Dr.
to
them.
prove
Pythagoras, according to
his doctrines ; he stated
Mackey,
his devoted
did not
them, and
reverently accepted them. Pythagoras disciples The doctrines of Pythagoras," is Masonry's ideal. says Dr. Mackey, (Encydopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 622), were always delivered as infallible propositions
" "
which
admitted
auTos
of
no
argument, and
demanded
a
hence
as
the expression
a
considered
sufficient
answer
who
reason."
70
Is it would this Am of
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
similar in
intellectual its
condition
that
Masonry
so;
create
disciples? Masonry
which my
says
is
the
blind
faith
it calls intellectual
light?
truth;
accept
new
moral
code
which
my
poral tem-
ipse dixit? depend, on a mere bility; first that you have a just claim to infalliProve to me claim is proved, then your and after your ipse will be dico, within the limits of your infallibility, but you cannot reasonably, readilyadmitted by me from without cogent proof, require such submission and upright man, I, as a conscientious can nor me; and in the eyes of reason give it. I am not justified whole in yielding up my of conscience being to you, merely because, without knowing you, I have formed a favorable opinion of you. Or are Does we Masonry pretend to infallibility? lible expected to receive infallible propositionsfrom a falteachers are authority? The individual Masonic for many of them are ignorant, surely not infallible, The Grand Dr. Mackey as constantly avers. Lodges have claim to infallibility, make no yet, as we seen, the interpretation they are the ultimate tribunals to which
and eternal destinies
"
"
"
contains
the
arcana
inner
of
Masonry,
is referred.
Bro.
Pike
scouts
men
"
the
denies
rehgious Masonry
"
belief claims
in any man or infallibility body of it can in matter of be, especially and Truth, which surely Divine
to
teach, refers
is
as
to
such
own
behef.
as
man's
Faith Pike
much his
his Morals
his
Reason
is," says
"
Bro.
29. free
as
His in
Dogma, p. consists as much in his faith being Freedom his will being uncontrolled All by power.
in
and
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
71
Augurs of Rome or Greece had not the rightto requireCicero or Socrates to beUeve in the absurd of mythology of the vulgar. All the Imaums Mohammedanism have not the right to require a Pagan
to
believe
that
Gabriel
dictated that
ever
the
Koran
to
the
Prophet. All
in
one
the Brahmins
conclave
a
if assembled lived, like the Cardinals, could not gain human single
man or
rightto compel
Hindu
in the
fallible he inshall
to decide
of faith. Except to those who spired and the truth of all infirst receive it, every religion ^ ternal testimony and inwritingsdepend on human and the evidences,to be judged of by Reason Each must wise analogiesof Faith. man necessarily cause have the rightto judge of their truth for himself; behave any higher or better right man can one no ligence." and intelto judge than another of equal information
to any tenet
believe
We much Greeks
the
do not
stand
Pike's
erroneous.
reasoning,
The
not
infallible in
this;
no
Mohammedans
were
not
infallible in
"
that; the
Smith
money fore thereThe
Hindus
man
or no
not
therefore
body
of
be
infallible.
John
had
no
"
had
in his pocket; Peter money had none in his hat ; Paul Thomas
no
Jones
have
in his vest
man
or
body
and
of
men
can
God-man
if he
so
was,
hence
could
money. be infallible ; he
could,
nature
of us in evident things,imparts to every one itself, be infallible; our Man, therefore, can infallibility.
author
has not
deignedto
from
Bro.
show
us
is why infallibility
excluded essentially
1
faith.
These
italicsare
Pike's.
72
But
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
in matters of faith be posinfallibility sible, for, de facto, Masonry gains nothing thereby Grand Mason no or Lodge of Masons lays claim to such prerogative, even though Masonry claims the sole right to teach Divine Truth, since every one outside its ant portals, layman and cleric,bishop and pope, is ignoreven
if
"
of of
"
God
and There
of the soul
"
the
essence
and
nature
both."
"
doors,
"
in
wandering pollutionsof
the moral chains and
in their the
and
covered There
"
over
with
"
the in in
outer
world."
and
they
are
of
error
intellectual
restrained
"
has to be created in their souls. light, And when ance they turn to Masonry to ask it what assurit can give them that it will reallyimpart truth to them and not error, Masonry refers them to the school of Pythagoras or the Ancient to Pagan Mysteries, where doctrines
were
not
as
fallibl in-
tial propositions. Whence, and this is the essenis not stated. point,the infallibility came, In regard, therefore, to divine truth, the Masonic fall back upon mind, as a basis of its certainty, must the interpretation and authority of a Grand Lodge, ble, which, according to Bro. Pike, not only is not infallibut cannot be. It is subjected to a standard ing varyand for Grand variable, differ with Lodge may Grand of points at issue. Lodge in the interpretation And if,as has happened in France, the Grand Lodge substitutes Creative ple Princia Superior Force," a for your Grand Architect of the Universe," if plain atheism be substituted for your Deism, what is the duty of every Mason and every Lodge but to submit, since to the Grand Lodge alone ultimately belongs
"
" "
"
74
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
phyte is involved
of of
are
and dispersed,
the true
knowledge
doctrine
the science
and
Masonry
Here, kind
are
and
reader, you
and
true
not
Mason,
sider con-
in this Masonic
mirror
condition.
you
own
It is chaos know
can can
do
not
the
of God
true
and
of your
soul, how
What
you you
know know
the of
laws
of human
and morality, religion But as God by ignorant of their very foundations? His omnipotent fiat called order and beauty out of the fathomless abyss of material chaos and disorder, so by its omnipotent fiat will Masonry work der a greater wonin the abyss of your intellectual confusion; and will know soul; own God; you will know you your and moral ideas will be systematized and religious your and moral truth and beauty, harmonized, and religious which at present are strangers to you, will, in the light of the new life of Masonry, abide in your breast. All ask this Masonry promises ; but once more we words and not factured promises, for these are easilymanuand demand tials; credenask, we we cheaply ask, we demand we proofs. But what mind can conceive, or what tray," porpen that terrible conour vulsion guide goes on to tell us, of Nature, that awful disentanglement of its have must elements, which accompanied the Divine Let there be light.' The scribe command, attempt to deaction ?
" " "
"
"
'
it would when
we
be
a on
presumptuousthe
task.
We
feel,
and and
meditate have
silence must
the when earth the from
fled
that stillness subject, before the Almighty Voice, trembled darkness in its
was new
itself have
existence,
as a
gloomy pall of
rolled
tain cur-
(Ibid.)
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
75
Why
must
must
there
been
have
a
been
convulsion?
Why
in
there have
of disentanglement
elements
the
were
Who
not
need
convulsion
an
when
at
the
divine
element,
its fellow if we, in
obedient
law and
creature,
measure?
united
Pardon
as a
itself to
us.
in
due
Doctor,
"
fairness, stamp
of fancy, with no more poetry in it,than rollingthe pall of darkness from the face of nature." Our us study would satisfy if there were less imagination to deal with, and better, solid proof. more
mere
We
that you
have
of
convulsion
us, the
for, as you will presentlytell trembling, of material light is to you the type of intellectual light in the mind of your
wish
to
calm
that mind
which, if it
of moral
definite
cannot
conduct,
the
terrified, by
sion, Therefore, this convulleap it is forced to make. this upheaval, must have been, because you need them for your symbolism. No, dear Doctor, oyt of the divine command, chaos to produce order at no and convulsion disentanglement and trembling were for each element obeyed the innate impulse necessary;
of its nature
under
the command
out
whom has
it
was
of
in its moral
code;
any of out
that has
man,
a
its fellow
out
of such
and its God, rightby itself, according to the dictates of its reason ; first produce chaos, heart Masonry must done
in order elements
afterwards, if may
in what it calls
76
But
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
this,its destructive
a asserting
to
ceal, con-
mental
condition
which
a
does pure
our
not
exist,
easily as
us
benefactor
conclude
interesting
"
citation.
"
And of
Shock
at
an
the and
inconceivable
and
to
distance, to preserve
the
tion recollec-
embody the idea of the birth of material that light, by the representationof the circumstances
accompanied it,and
or
their reference
to
the birth
of intellect
Masonic hence
a
light.
The
one
other; and
attended imitate
the
illumination
of
that may be supposed to ceremony the priihalillumination of the universe most with
"
and
yet
not
altogetherwithout
im-
Enlightenment is,then, a symbol of the change which is now taking placein the intellectual condition of the candidate. It is the symbol [the italics are those of the Ritualist] of the birth of intellectual ness." light and the dispersionof intellectual dark{Masonic Ritualist, pp. 33, 34). In the lightof what have we already said, further
,
The
Shock
of
comment
is what
unnecessary.
Our
readers
understand
the purpose of Masonic instruction is,and Masonry asks of its candidate. Masonry is to
"
Divine
Truth and
"
the
essence
truth
of
God
and This
of
the
the nature
of both." it is
"
it calls
"
intellectual illumination
minds of its
which
to
create
in the
neophytes. It is to give them new a birth into Masonic life, whereby they will acquirea idea of life and of its duties,and be freed from new the shackles of moral servitude in which they have
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
jy
be made,
no
hitherto
matter
lived.
There
is
no
exceptionto
has embraced may
what
religiona
nor
man
present hour,
has have
how Even
uprightlyhe
the Saints
of
lived in it.
who Catholicity,
passed
from
life outside
Masonic
portals,have
of pollutions
sphere,covered
with
the
world.
for all this this enlightenment,
"
return
moral
and
intellectual
"
change,
a new
this
order
out
of
chaos," this
the soul of faith in its
to
at
birth into
life,"Masonry demands
a
man.
It asks
of him
blind
and
absolute
impart
the
same
it ;
deceiving deliberately its initiates in the lower degrees,giving them of the symbols, and making them false interpretations much, while they know imagine that they know tically pracin this nothing. It asks the whole life of man its principles; on world, for that life is to be molded it asks his life in the next, for the next must correspond It asks not a to this. change for the future, but a of the past. It asks the breaking of total disruption but because all religion of religion, all the old ties
"
time,
Albert
Pike
its
own
knows
neither
the
nature
of
God
nor
"
of and
the of
new
human
Truth;
to
be
taught by
lessons
new
bound
human the
school ; and is to break the fetters that and polconscience in the darkness lutions world.
is And when the soul
reason
profane
is
startled,when
would
the conscience
shocked, when
in anxious
inquiry,it
effect of
"
seeks
to
soothe
the troubled
faculties of man,
them
that
natural
they,in
their chaotic
state, must
expect
similar
78
disturbance
THE
SHOCK
OF
ENTRANCE
to
that caused
in
primal chaos
much
by
the
tion crea-
light.
for
It asserts
; it proves
none
ing. nothto
asked
here,
pages,
"
as
over
it is
so
difficult, even
who moral
a
death-bed,
The intellectual
to
reclaim
Catholic
a
has
been
Mason.
an
is difficulty
one.
not
mere
one,
it is
It is not the
disobedience
to
a
the
Church and
and
sacraments
; it is
complete
the very
as
formal and
from of the
the
faith,in which
God of the Without
mere
nature
Christian
essence
is denied, Christian
a
well
as
and
to
the
soul. of
What grace,
on? it had of
"
miracle
passion, or
there
interest,or
been of the
only
"
change
nearness
"
and
total extinction
past,"the
offended dormant faith moral have
of eternity
and
what when and when the
every,
fear
of
an
God and
as
might
dead.
vive re-
long
roots
lain of
But
been
plucked
been of
and religious
tie has
up, broken ;
Masonry has been wrought, and not one singledogma repudiated Catholic but the whole as system rejected error, and is, as Masonry ignorance, the case helplessness, and it has cunningly planned, well nigh as knows, hope, it will be in hopeless. If there be any human whence the lack of responsivene understandingthe fatal source and in seeking to bring back to springs, has been that heart what so artfullyand sedulously
banished mother's
"
the knee.
truths
of
divine
faith
learned
at
CHAPTER
Is
American
Masonry
Religion?
put
that the
this any
question
reflective made
to
ourselves,
mind in the will
not
because that of
we
doubt
it is,
revelations
Shocks the
Entrance is of
so
Enlightenment,
that its of that Truth
nature
but from
because
matter
portant imview
study
interest
different
points
main God
"
cannot
but
be
and
profit.
whose truth
"
Evidently,
teach soul
"
"
institution
"
"
object
and whose
man
is to the
Divine
"
"
the
essence
of
of
the
and fashion
of both
tical pracin
no cordance acligion re-
purpose
is to
such world has
the is
no
morality
a
of
with
in has
ever or
theory, to-day,
either it
a more
religion;
that itself
for the
a
the
seen,
religion
to
world
proposed
different
object,
proposed
completely.
But let
Masonry
us
is,
the
therefore,
evidently
way.
our
religion.
study
point
In
in another
thumbing
a
Masonic
assertion.
Ritualist, we
It consists
"
find, on
of
two
page
190,
one
remarkable
; the
parts,
sonry Ma-
negative
be
not
other,
affirmative.
"
Though
religion," it
The
to
it
is
emphatically
in duction inhis
religion's handmaid."
the
is contained
on
charge
into
"
addressed office.
the
Chaplain
copy the sacred
to
Allow
to
passage.
Most
Reverend
Brother,
has been
the
position
care,
of
Grand
we
"
Chaplain
entrust
entrusted
the your
your
and
now
you
with
of
jewel
of
your
office. will be
re-
In
the
discharge
duties, you
79
8o
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
quired to
of your
lead
the
devotional
to
our
exercises the
of
our
Grand
Communications,
and
perform
sacred
functions
Though publicceremonies. it is emphaticallyreligion's Masonry be not religion, sure handmaid, and we that, in ministeringat its are altar, the services you may perform will lose nothing of their vital influence because they are practisedin which that spirit of universal tolerance distinguishes institution. The doctrines of morality and virtue our
at holy calling
which
as
you
are
accustomed of
to
inculcate form
to
the
world,
the
minister
you in
are
God,
will
the
appropriate
to
the
communicate
your you
profession which
best of your
chosen will
for your
guarantee
in welldoing.
that you
discharge Holy
present appointmen
with The
we
steadfastness
Masonry,
entrust
to
your
one
There its
is
no
who
does
not
see
surroundings,the denial that Masonry is religion becomes remarkably weak and unemphatic. A grand reverend brother, sacred functions, chaplain,a most exercises, ministering at its holy calling,devotional altar, the entrustingof the Bible, all point directly and immediately to an influence on religionwhich is than that of a handmaid. evidentlymore But of what form of religion is Masonry the handmaid?
"
we
ask.
Is it the
handmaid
of
or
Methodism,
or
? or Catholicity A handmaid is a helper. Strange, of all of them? that no form of religionrecognizes Masonry as a an helper,especially emphatic helper. Catholicity that any not are aware certainlydoes not; and we other form The influence does. of the emphatic
"
" "
or Mahometanism, Presbyterianism,
82
"
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
The
last and
crowning
can never
Landmark be
"
of
all
is, that
{Encydopcschanged dia of Freemasonry, p. 443). "Twenty-fifth. That be changed. the Landmarks of Masonry never can These constitute the Landmarks, as they have or, sometimes been called, the body of Masonry,' in which it is not in the power of any man, or body of ualist, the least innovation." to make {Masonic Ritmen, pp. 242-243). It is someNo, no; Masonry is not a handmaid." thing and this its very name implies. It is more; have no Fr^^-Masonry, acknowledging, as we seen, It is not the serits own. ties, vant moral, save or religious but the mistress. And be a truly she would
these Landmarks
'
strange handmaid
the
who,
on
of the
on
solemn
occupying
Yet this is precisely what place of honor. Masonry does in religious Masonic feaston matters, for when
days, public services are held in a Church, divine service must be performed by the lodge's chaplain. In every country where Freemasonry is encouraged," says the Ritualist, its festival days are celebrated with These the festival of St. John the are great ceremony. Baptist,on the 24th of June, and that of St. John the the 27th of December. on Evangelist, They are days set apart by the fraternity tect Archito worship the Grand of the Universe, to implore his blessings the upon great family of mankind ; and to partake of the feast of On brotherly affection. arriving at the
"
"
church
to
uncover
and
as
open
the
far
the
Master, who,
the
. .
wise likelines,
Divine
.
service
be
performed by
Chaplain, and
an
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
83
competent
and
thems an-
delivered appropriate address by brother appointed for the occasion. adapted to the occasion shall service
a
some
Hymns
collection may
be made
in aid of the
Our
into
charityfund." (pp. 199, 201.) handmaid has certainly taken the whole
her
own
hands.
She
institutes unite in
her
own
worshiping the in a public Architect of the Universe, they meet Grand church, their chaplain celebrates divine service, they all this at the sing appropriatehymns and anthems bidding and under the control of Masonry; and yet, but only its handmaid! Masonry is not a religion, church is selected for their Allow to enquire what us commissions the chaplain to Who divine services?
the festivals,
brethren
"
perform
of the
to
them
Of
or
what has
nature
are
orders
that he possesses,
he
any?
and the of
services Grand
performed
Architect
of the
worship
Universe?
the
of
Universe? the
Who
what church
is this Grand is
Architect
The
not
assuredly not Catholic, the chaplain is Catholic, the worship is not Catholic; so that even
the idea of the
if
Grand
Architect
sense
of the Universe
were
Catholic, and
children of any
The the
to
in the Masonic
of the Catholic
Church
could
such
more
permit her
in those that
in participate
services than
of the numberless
us.
forms
of Protestantism
surround
handmaid
theory will
of
of light
facts and
more
therefore, is
a
than
bear
religion. that in making this assertion, aware We are perfectly as we do, we shall be calmly and deliberately
84
met
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
by
be
chorus have
pouring
untenable
are
sides.
to
We
how
from all in upon us the denial of Bro. Pike is is that but of the Mch
answer
received, and
Ritualist. the and deniers their
sonic have
own
Denials
to
easy,
to
us our
what
make
proofs?
another.
For
our
instruction,let
add
That
own
has
its
distinct
altars; its
own a
distinct
temples; its
own
distinct
and priesthood,
even
distinct anointings;its own distinct ceredistinct worship; its own monies ritual;its own festivals ; its own tinct disdistinct religious ; its own creed ; its own distinct morality; its own religious distinct theory of the nature soul and of the human of the relations of that soul with the Deity; its own distinct and peculiar God. But all these things are found in Masonry. fore ThereMasonry is a distinct religion. No sane we think,will questionour first propoman, sition, the of the for have major we argument; enumerated more quired rethings than are absolutely many constitute distinct religion. The main to a therefore, regards the second or minor propoquestion, sition, distinct consecrations
and which is
one
of fact.
Is it
found in Masonry? If they are, then things are in spite of denials Masonry is evidentlya religion, which from those only who either unincan come are structed in Masonic dogma, or who speak insincerely. Let
us,
therefore,examine
the fact.
First,the Altar.
The first thing that arrests
our
attention
as
the Masonic
a
the
Masonic
altar.
open It is apparently
we
it.
On
it rests
Bible, and
on
the Bible
are
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
85
and
ground (p. 11). This is the altar of the lower ferent degrees, since Masonry has a difOn altar for the higher ones. are 35 we page should with a diagram showing how the lights supplied be disposed. The lowing drawing is accompanied by the foladmonition:
dark
wood, presumably
placing the lights around the altar that the precedingdiagram is inserted for the direction of the Senior Deacon, whose duty it is to see that they are properlydistributed." And the altar follows us so throughout the whole Its form, however, as book, from beginning to end. stated, changes. we ters," Select MasThe altar in a Council of Royal and brated says the Ritualist (p. 532), represents the celein the temple,a notice of Stone of Foundation ume. in a subsequent part of this volwhich will be found Masonic other It should, therefore, unlike
are so
"
"
"
Errors
often
made
in
altars, be constructed
other ornaments, Ark. As
to
represent
on
cubical stone
be
out with-
and the
it should
Substitute
Stone second and
as
Masonic
of Foundation
in the Sanctum
of the
first,
in
a
a
Council
Masters, it is evident
altar should often room." be
during
at least,the reception,
arch, and
even
not,
as
is too
of the
in the center
altars,altars special Masonry therefore has its own Masonic with a special meaning. The arrangement, all minutely specified. are material, ornamentation Second, the Temple.
An
altar is the natural
accompanimentof
church
86
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
temple. Hence, since they have altars, naturally call their buildings also,Masons even publicly temples. candidate seeks for light and The truth," says Ritualist, within the sacred preMackey's Masonic cincts of the lodge (p.29) : on enteringit, as with admonition is Moses at the burning bush, the solemn given, Put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the thou standest is holy ground placewhereon (p.23) : and one the ancient temple, of the distinctions between is which the lodge is modelled, and the lodge itself, on The that most holy place in a Lodge is its eastern its western end, that of the Temple was extremity." (P-29.) So closely the two are connected," Dr. Mackey tells us again in his Encyclopmdia, tempt p. 798, that to ator
"
" "
"
'
'
"
"
"
"
to to
separate the
one
from of
the other
would
be fatal
Masonry. Each Lodge is and must be a symbol of the Jewish Temple ; and hence, like its prototype, the Lodge contains the Holy of Hohes. Every Lodge," says Bro. Pike {Dogma and Morals, p. 7), is a Temple, and as a whole, and in its details, symbolic." Third, the High Priesthood. With altars and with temples,Masonry possesses a instituted by itself and for itself. High Priesthood This matter is fully treated in the Masonic Ritualist, : pp. 420 and following The design of this degree [theHigh Priesthood] says the Ritualist, so far as it relates to its symbolic
"
the further
existence
"
"
"
"
"
ceremonies, appears
the bond of
to
be to
present
which
to
the
candidate
brotherlylove
should
unite those
having been elevated, to the highest station by their companions, are thus engaged in preservingthe Landmarks of the order unimpaired,and in protecting the integrity and honor of the by their high authority,
who,
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
87
of
to
a
institution.
Thus
laborers in the
sacred
the and
general mass
consecrated
truths,those glorious who sit in the tabernacle as the representatives of the ancient monies high priesthoodare, by the impressivecereof this degree,reminded ship of the intimate friendand all fellowshipwhich should exist between those who have been honored with this distinguished privilege." The penaltyfor unlawfullyassuming the priesthood is then set forth (p.430) in the Biblical account of the punishment of Core, Dathan, and Abiron (Num. xvi, 1-35), clearlyimplying the parity of the Masonic and the Aaronic. Indeed the Ritualist high priesthood is of Scripture sometimes tells us that this passage vestitur read in explanationof an important part of the in(p.430). this After the warning not to assume unrightfully to a highest station in the lodge, this consecration truths of of the glorious teachers sacred mission as in the tabernacle as tives representaMasonry, this sitting of the Ancient High Priesthood, we are allowed should be recited to the Benediction,which to pass on at the anointingof a High Priest. When a High Priest is anointed, the following
as
" " "
mission
Benediction
should
be recited:
"
"And
unto
the Lord
and
unto
spake
unto
Moses, saying,Speak
Aaron
On this wise ye his sons, saying. children of Israel, saying unto them,
Lord
peace.
make
his
thee; the
"
vi, 22-26."
continues
of
:
Our
"
guide then
ceremony
The
anointingwith
oil
preparatory
88
the
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
that of king as assumption of any sacred office, the Egyptians and both among or was priest, practised of the former, many the Jews. Among the monuments of the performance of to be seen are representations three instances this holy rite. The mention Scriptures unction administered; was particularly in which into his introduction on namely, in the case of Aaron their and Solomon the priestly and of David on office, in all these consecration as kings. The anointingwas of a desigviewed as a cases symbol of sanctification, nation sacred to the service of God, or to a holy and use." if this were And not enough to impress upon as hood, the sacred character of the Masonic us High Priestthe words of St. Paul to the Hebrews, chap. VII, in which he speaks of the eternal priesthood of Christ, are, says the Ritualist, read as explanatory of the office of the priesthood." The ever, howpassage, is utterly mutilated, all mention of Christ being
to
"
omitted.
High Priest, says the Ritualist, presidesin a the king being Masons, even Chapter of Royal Arch subordinated him. He to represents Joshua or the son of Josedech, and the High Jeshua, who was Priest of the Jews when they returned from the Babylonian
The
"
exile. the He
He the
is seated ancient of
in the East
and
clothed
in
apparel of
wears
a
robe
linen, and
On
'
is decorated of the
High Priest of the Jews. and white blue, purple, scarlet, with and mitre. a breastplate
mitre His
are
the
front
inscribed
a
the
words
Holiness
to the
Lord.'
jewel is
mitre." ends
"
ualist, (Ritwith
his
installation
Sanctorum.
the
"
You
will
your
seat
in
Sanctum and
Sanctorum,"
the in-
says
the
Grand
High Priest,
proceed to
90
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
Ritual.
Much
esoteric, and,
not
being
instruction."
"
The
Masons,
borrowing
and festivity Operative or those the of St.
from
and
imitatingthe
had vals their festiThe of chief the the the carded dis-
usage
or
of the
Church, have
of the
also
always
Stone
days
of
festivals Middle
24th of
John
Four
Crowned latter
were,
Baptiston Martyrs on
however,
4th
of
The
Masons [Freemasons] ; and Speculative the festivals now most by the generally celebrated those of St. John the Baptist, are June 24th, Fraternity and St. John the Evangelist, December 27th. These the days kept in this country." are Eighth, its Creed.
by
the
"
A
a
"
This
constitutes
the that
sole creed he is In
quired re-
of
at
least, the
our
only
creed
Ritualist,p.
44.
his
Dr.
rather
clause,
"
of
profess." Although Freemasonry," he and is tolerant in theology, faith,it would every religious
to
a
"
matic dogmen
of
that it is without
creed. which
On
creed, the
denial of in
assent
to
which the
is
it
Order.
AMERICAN
articles: who things,
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
91
of all
First, a
belief in
God,
the
Creator
is therefore
of the Universe
to which life,
the Grand
itect Arch-
preparatory
and
To the first of these articles probationary state. is explicitly assent the threshold of as requiredas soon the Lodge is crossed. The second is expressively taught by legends and symbols, and must be implicitly assented to by every Mason, especially by those who have received the third degree, which is altogether founded the resurrection life." {Encyto a second on clopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 192). could easily We creed is immensely prove that the Masonic
wider
truth
essence
for
how
teach
Divine
soul
"
Truth
"
the
of God of
and
of the human
a mere
and
is
both, if
the
belief in God
all that
nature
requiredof
essence are
and
of both
however, satisfied,
for
own we are
with
matter,
has its
satisfied with
creed. peculiar Ninth, its distinct Morality. of the lessons of the prime objects This is one new self school of- Masonry." in the new Masonry defines ittainly a as system of morality." This system is cerdistinctive of Masonry, since it belongs to its Masonic it; light is needed to know essence. very is needed to live it; it constitutes Masonic helpfulness self life." Indeed so peculiar to itin fact, the Masonic
" " "
is this
are
morality,that
outside
even
of it
pale of Masonry. "We at his initiation the him [the candidate] acquiring see Ritualist, Urst elements of morality," p. 338. says our the first elements he acquires Surely, if,in initiation,
not
found
the
92
of
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
not
possess
them
before.
of this
separate chapter.
the Human
Tenth,
and the
Theory of
the
Soul
to
Deity, as well as Eleventh, the peculiarGod of Masonry. ready alBoth these are clearly taught us in the sentences familiar, in which so Masonry states its object be the imparting of Divine Truth ture regarding the naRelation
of the soul and the
essence
All outside
it
are
in darkness
; it alone
possesses of the
light ;
which
begs
divine truth
"
withdrawal
from
his uninitiated
illumination," this
demand veiled of from the
new
tal men-
first is
candidate."
what
implore so earnestly,if one enter already possess a thing? Why Masonry, if its But all object be to teach what we already know? this will become vance adas we plainer,if that be possible, in our Study. Masonry's God, therefore, is not the God that we
one?
Why
revere,
adore, and
recourse
love, for
Him
our
we
know
without
having
to
to
Masonry;
we
soul it to
is not, according
Masonry,
else which
us.
what
believe and
be, but
alone
Masonry
what
Masonry
In have
to
Such
is its contention.
we
therefore, it affirms
that it has its
own
theory about the human its own God, and, as theory about its own corollary, theory of the relations
soul Neither and has
necessary
tween beexisting
God.
our
enumeration
We could
exhausted have
the
religious
of its in-
features of
Masonry.
treated
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
93
vocations
its
the used
benedictions
its
baptism
its
etc.
the
munion com-
of
brethren;
in the
its
hymns; degrees,
to
purifications;
;
the
not
croziers wish
to
high
space
but
we
do
more
the
proof
of
fact
so
evident. make
in the it
all,
if
you
will,
"
travesty
we are
on
religion
concerned
all
mockery insincerity
it has
not
sincerity
shown that
or
of
its altars
protestations.
;
We
have
its
own
its
own
its
own
temples
ritual its its and
;
priesthood
ceremonies;
and its of
its
own
worship
its
own
its
own
its
own
religious
its of
to
own
festivals; creed;
soul its
own
consecrations
anointings; theory
soul
own
morality;
relations
These
own
the the
human
the
that
deity;
a
own
God.
false
things
that
certainly
constitute
religion,
though
religion-
be.
For
see
Masonic
the
"
Baptism
"
recently
conferred
in Vol.
New
York No.
7.
City,
Catholic
Fortnightly
Review,
XV,
CHAPTER
VI
Additional
Light
on
American
Freemasonry
as
Religion
The
to
idea
of
so
of
our
Masonry
readers,
and but
as
religion
the additional Let
will
be
so
new
many
and that
protestations light
us
of
on
the the
Craft
matter
long
cannot
loud,
be
acceptable.
us,
allow
Dr.
Mackey
to
to
instruct
here and
calling attention,
when
he
however,
lead
us
points,
"
there,
might
astray.
There
has p.
been,"
he "a
a
tells
us
{Encyclopaedia
expenditure
of
to
of
genuity in-
Freemasonry,
and and
639),
in
of
talent, by
large
the
Masonic prove
tors ora-
essayists,
is not
Masonry
from been
a
religion.
the from
was
This
undoubtedly
view
but
connection
that
taken
between
that if
a
religion
the
to
Masonry,
of of
a
the
not
fear made
complete
ance dissever-
manifest,
opponents
establish that
Masonry theory
Masons their
never
would
be
enabled been
to
successfully
fond of substitute of
which
were
they
have
advancing,
the
disposed
for
a
teachings
Now
"
Order for
the
truths
Christianity.
he
I that
moment
believed,"
continues,
as
such
unwarrantable
to
assumption,
substitute into
not
that
Masonry
mind,
sub-
intended obtain
be
for any
Christianity, could
regulated yield, on
the
to
admission
well
and,
therefore,
am
disposed
94
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
the has
RELIGION
95
ject of
much
as
of
Masonry, quite
brethren.
so
timid
On
contend, without any sort of hesitation, of the word, cept exMasonry is, in every sense
and
an philosophical, eminently institution that it is indebted religious solelyto the which element for its origin and it contains religious for its continued existence,and that without this religious element it would be worthy of cultivation scarcely by the wise and the good. But, that I may be truly understood, it will be well first to agree upon the true definition of religion. There is nothing more illogical
one,
than
to
reason
religion." given four is the very soul of Masonry. element The religious its origin; from it Masonry reTo it Masonry owes ceives continued existence; without it,Masonry were The valueless. ingenuity and talent of the Brethren, who denied the religious ment eleand orators essayists, the complete in Masonry, and sought to show
disseverance but
of the two,
not they were not a question of truth with them, but a fear lest the the opponents of Masonry should establish successfully theory that Masonry seeks to substitute itself for But why this fear, if the thing were not Christianity. if the theory establish a theory successfully, How so ? true? be not They erred in thinking so, says the Doctor learned Mackey. Did they reallyerr? ,We
terms.
Webster
has
shall One
see
later.
word
more,
and
we
are
ready
us
to
continue
our
tells
that
Masonry
is
of the least
fourth,
or
sense. philosophical
g6
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
Unacquainted
we are
with
system
to
of
philosophy,
our
unable, for
as
enlighten
readers
to
in philosophical
less
more
light will
of
"
come.
therefore
our
turn
to
the definitions
Webster,
given by
author.
sense,
I.
Religion, in
comprehensive
man
includes,
God
he
"
of perfections
"
in man's
ligation ob-
and and
commands* in man's
"
in
state
of reward
to
accountableness
God
also true
the practice
of all moral
one
enough
to
to
constitute
it real.
a
needed
make
to not
these in
a
"
elements
merely
or we
God
in
in
a
who general,
revelation
"
tions perfec-
other
are
"
matter
ignorant
in
an
in
an
subjectobligation merely in
which with
is indefinite definite
whose
the
abstract
"
accountableness
a
but
to
believe in
definite God,
of His will ; in definite perfections ; in a definite revelation and duties ; for thus only can obligations we tise pracdefinite
mere
virtues
and
and
lead
true
godly
some some
life. God
A
or
general
some can
indefinite belief
in
other ; in
or
or obligation never
other ; in
revelation
course
other,
lead
to
action,much
we are
less
enabled
of
by
which
lives and
call them
godly.
condition
Definiteness for
in all these
indefinite and
come
undetermined,
That
would fit any
minds
and
wills
never
to
anything.
would
be strange
indeed, which
idea of
98
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
constitute sarily is is
individual,as
a
"
exists really for whatever religion; everybody knows, and hence Masonry
a
religion. definition is,"says Dr. His [Webster's] second 2. distinct from that religion, as theology,is Mackey, godliness or real piety in practice,consistingin the duties to God and our low-men, felperformance of all known
"
in love
"
obedience and
to
divine
command,
or
from
to
God
his law."
"
author, that Again, he says," continues our distinct from virtue or morality,consists as religion, in the performance of the duties we to owe directly of obedience to his will." God, from a principle tor, he defines religion," adds the Doclastly, 4. And to be any system of faith or worship ; and in this he says, religioncomprehends the belief and sense, well as of as worship of Pagans and Mohammedans Christians in the belief of a consisting any religion superior power, or powers, governing the world, and in the worship of such power And it is in or powers. this sense that we or speak of the Turkish religion, the Jewish religion, well as of the Christian." as So Dr. Mackey defines religion in its four senses.
3.
" "
"
He
us
Webster.
He
does
we
not
tell
follows, and
best
hence
cannot
editions
as
of the
Webster Doctor
definitions
We
shall
not, however,
them
Webster's
or
not.
Now,
and from
it is
senses
plain,"he
in which do
says,
we
that take
"
of the
first three
"
may
they
one
not," he
"
adds,
differ
another
Masonry
AMERICAN
claim
to
FREEMASONRY
be called
RELIGION
99
institution. Closely religious and accuratelyexamined, it will be found to answer to of the requirements of either of these three one any definitions." So much," he continues, does it include belief in the being and perfections a of God,' that the publicprofession of such a faith is essentially into the Order. to gain admission No believer disnecessary
a
"
" '
can
be made
Mason." further
The
on
'
revelation
to
"
of is
his will
to
man,'
'
"
he
'
goes
say,
the
spiritual,
Mason,
"
moral,
and
Masonic
he is to according to the rules and designs of the spiritual edifice of his eternal erect life." A of reward state and he adds, is punishment,' included in the very idea of an necessarily obligation,
'
"
every which
"
which, without
no
the
belief in such
state, could
'
be
of
true binding force or efficacy.And godliness or piety of life is inculcated as the invariable duty of every Mason, from the inception of the first to the end of the very last degree that he takes." in reference So, again," he says, to the second and all this practical third definitions, piety and performance
'
"
"
we are
owe
to
God
on
and
a
to
our
low-men fel-
and
founded
of principle from
the
divine
will.
Whence
have of
else, or
what voice
other of the
to
us
will, could
Grand
in
they
arisen? the of of
Architect
Universe,
our our
from
every
to
Lodge,
him
to
speaks
God Mason
the love
Mason,
brethren.
commanding
It is idle to
and
the
does
good simply
These idea
in obedience
owe
of the Order.
to
the
Masonic
and
loo
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
God, which
which idea
idea
has
come
down
to
us
from
historyof
was
the
We
have
allowed
are a
Dr.
speak rightalong,
of what of
we
beautiful confirmation
the
"
already proved.
under
creed
belief in
relation
of his will to
; true
; "a
state
of
reward life
"
and
; what
punishment
a
vast
the instructed he
Mason.
must
obligedto professall,but
definite and in
admit
And
remark, how
Practical piety Masonry: obedience the divine and to will; the voice of the Grand Architect of the Universe symbolized in every and speaking from portion of the ceremony every furniture idea of God of the Lodge; the Masonic
everything is
which is not
some
is the sanction
some
of the
Order.
or
It
piety or
or
will
or
other ;
voice
other;
each
idea
other; but
determined.
a ligion. re-
something Everything
"
in
fixed is
is real;
everything
part of
"
But
it must definition
be
does
confessed," he
not
fourth
appear
to
of fact, the fourth Masonry." In matter whether it appear definition, applicable or not, is have we strictlyapplicable, as already proved than and shall prove more as we again. once, We do not expect that, in an sonry, organizationlike Mawhich seeks to hide behind an impenetrable should veil, matters as they reallyare. appear
to
"
"
AMERICAN Our
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
loi
a thought that Masonry was astonished charitable organization, mere at the are revelations that the Craft is making of itself. religious It did not them that Masonry to appear in any sense of the word; yet, in spite was religious of appearances, author that the our freely admits first three meanings of religion, meanings attributed to Webster, to Masonry; nay, are applicable proves that they are so. Appearances at times are deceptive. once
" "
readers, who
he says, pretension," the religions of the world to assume sectarian a as system of faith and worship in the from in which sense we distinguish Christianity Judaism, or Judaism from Mohammedanism." a True, Masonry has no pretension to assume of the world; what it calls the religions place among
But,
"
it
"
no
'
for
these,
as
Brother
Pike
has
told
us,'
are
the
ruptions cor-
primitive faith. Masonry surely makes Neither itself among these. to number no pretension from does it claim to be a sectarian system diiifering differs from as Christianity Judaism ; for Christianity, fering here again, in the Masonic idea, it is corruptiondifin both being from : the basic corruption religion the differences existing the same, merely in the
human
of
error,
own
the
work
of
man.
every the
the
recognized form of of mankind. catholic religion they are type of which pure
It is the
be
the
manifold
which
tortions dis-
solid
foundation, of
erroneous
they
con-
are
the
manifold
and
variant
tures. superstrucso
So
1
it diflfers from
also
all of
them;
103.
it is
infra,p.
102
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
cealed
and
buried
beneath
; but
so
it
is,in
to all of superior reality, In this meaning of we meaning, ) he says, the Masonic nor religion,
" "
the
do say
word," (the
and
a man
sectarian
not
cannot
speak
the
of
of Here
Christian of
but
Mason.
it is that assumed of
a
ground,
form of
in
have idea
with
teaches
tution instireligious Christian religion as a peculiar in supposing,because Masonry that and it is offered
as a
stitute sub-
for
truth
Christian
obligation."
human
{Encyclopedia of Freemasonry,
Are the Christian ideas
the
Masonic?
obligations,
Masonic
as essentially
Christian, identical
Christian A and
ligation ob-
Are
same
Masonic
morality the
You not canplain answer, yes or no. answer yes," for you would identifyMasonry in general,or with Catholicity; and Christianity is not so. vehemently protest, and rightly, you would destroy the whole by this single word
thing?
"
Masonic
fabric,the purpose
we
of its
existence, the
outside
son rea-
of its secrecy ; for exists alone it asserts therefore Christian And you confirms
"
should
have
what it,
must
within
; the
its
portals. You
idea of
answer
No
Christian
God,
not are morality and obligation answer truly. And every step in not
Masonic."
our see
Study
how Masonic
But assertion. do you your every instructed Mason, every candidate lightwho embraces theory,must your he be sincere and
for
honest, abandon
he before
the
if necessarily, Christian,the
Catholic
the
new
ideas which
ideas, the
new
the principles,
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
103
Masonry
Ah!
proposes?
"But
Is
not
this
as
evidently a
such," you
stitution subsay.
it is not
offered
thing: offered as such or not, it is such, and as such, by the truly instructed, logically is it accepted. No have as we said, is worthy man, of the name of man, who will believe that Christianity, that Catholicity of corruptions as such, is a mass and of errors invented and herence by man, give his addoctrines tinctive and to its specific practiceits disfaith is the practices. The birth of the new death of the old. And if pure he now as religion, conceives brace it,be offered him, he will, if honest, emit.
that is another
Behold offered
as
the natural
such
or
process
of
substitution,
the
whether
But
not.
that
the
reader
may
understand
denies for Albert that
a
sophism
as
better, by which
a
Masonry
shall return
it is offered
space
"
substitute,we
as
"
brief Pike.
to
the
doctrine
he says,
set forth
by
Bro. has
teaches, and
preserved in faith which of the old primitive tenets derlie unthe foundation of all religions. All are
had
a
existed, have
that truth
basis
errors.
of
truth; and
The
all
overlaid
with
sooner were taught by the Redeemer and alloyed with fictions, than intermingled and when Masonry is the taught to the first of our race. is suited to the inhabitants universal morality which of every creed." {Morals of every clime, to the man and Dogma, p. 161). theory, exists in Masonry, therefore, in its own is found The forms. two pure or uncorrupted form inside its Lodges ; the false and corrupted form is met In enoutside them. tering with in the various religions of Masonry is poured upon the Lodge, the light
primitive corrupted,
104
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
the candidate
; intellectual
lightis
created
in his mental
pear corruptions of the various religionsapfied in their true lightto his strengthened and purivision; and looking through and behind them he perceivesin each the pure Masonry, but buried and sonry, beneath concealed Recognize Maa heap of rubbish. be it Catholic or therefore, in your religion, ligion, Protestant, Jewish or Buddhist; admit that your reit be, is but a man-made whatever variety of Do you not see, argue its divine prototype, Masonry. not substitutingMasonry authors, that you are our for your but merely recognizing in it the religion, You are merely already exists? Masonry which stitution not the rubbish, and making a subclearing away Hence can impart its light to Masonry of every creed, without interfering with their men form of religionis but Masonry for every religion, corrupted by man. which subtile and insidious, And this is the sophistry,
chaos; the
permeates
deceived the
the many
whole
Masonic
system, and
minds. The
which
has
well-meaning
sophism lies in the figuresthat are and most inexact, if one seem appropriate, yet are wishes to are reason closely. What represented as in the various sonry are errors spoken of by Mareligions, the basic primitive truths ; as a superstructure on a as corruption of these truths; as rubbish covering The false impression and concealing these truths. therefore made the mind of the disciple of Masonry upon truths and the errors is,that the primitive resented repbish, by superstructure, and corruption, and rubous two are separate and distinct things in the variof religion; forms of a just as the foundation house is distinct from the rooms above it; the steel
io6
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
"
Its warmest
and
"
most
enlightened friends,"
never
Dr.
Mackey
"
continues,
such
a a
have
advanced
nor
ported supwas
offered
as
truth
answer,
and but
Christian such
nothing. prudent You well as we, that it would be highly imknow as friends of Masonry for the warmest openly how to advance or support such a theory, no matter it be. Such friends must true pretend the contrary. You pretend the, contrary and they naturally follow be pardoned, however, for must example. We your not acceptingas a proof of your assertion,what they have not done. {Encyclopcedia, p. 641.) he says, nor Freemasonry is not Christianity," substitute for it. It is not intended to supersede it, a of worship or system of faith. It nor any other form does meddle with sectarian creeds not or doctrines, but touches fundamental truth not religious enough with the necessity of the Christian scheme to do away of salvation,but more than enough to show, to demonstration, that it is,in every philosophical of the sense and one, too, in which the institution, word, a religious Mason will find,if he earnestly seeks for true Christian
action absence of
action, proves
"
"
"
them, abundant
and
types and
shadows
of his
own
exalted
we
willingly
it, we
not can-
admit; but
so
that
it is not We
substitute
have
for
readilygrant.
to
clearlyproved
Whether
as
it to tended innot,
nature,
not,
substitute.
offered
whether
our a as
such
or
is,
the
at
mere
present, beside
question.
word,
a
Still, if it be
with
satisfied
verifies religion,
having perfectly
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
107
the
English
be
we
are
willingto
assertion may be
a
admit
may
that, in
allowed
or an
certain pass.
sense,
Mackey's
substitute It may
some
to
For
perfectone
other replacean-
details.
If it
perfect; if only
imperfect,in
substitute Dr. without
to
to
as
much
substitute.
Now,
we
if
by
a complete one, Mackey means admit that Masonry does hesitancy, be such a substitute. For claiming, as
not
it
does,
not
be the
teacher
of pure
Divine
Truth, it could
claim to represent the mass of corrupconsistently tions tianity which, in its idea, constitute the forms of Chrisaround These us. corruptionsare to be cast aside by every sincere and enlightenedMasonic heart,
no
substitute the
is needed
for
them.
But,
as
we
have
shown,
was
tian, Chriscastingaside of what is essentially which is at present prodestroysthe Christianity fessed; tion even if, in the Masonic theory, this destrucof Christianity it is only the restoration to what it is in our as as Christianity, taught by Christ.
and
to
hearts ceased
in the be.
our
hearts
us,
"
has
True, you
call this
dling" med-
destroying You call the religious not not synonymous. are may the initiate now faith of Masonry, which professes, he professed which substitute for the Christianity a
before; what
sincere and of
the is
with
certain, however,
the
is, that
such
if he is
a
be
past.
For
future, he
will
our
the pure faith of Masonry, which tells us sentence in the very same
author
not
"is
ity." Christiansectarian
Masonry
"
does
not
meddle
with
io8
creeds
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
or
doctrines," it sweeps
minds of exoteric in the souls
them and
in the but
Masonically
our
further
But
what
we
must
without
justiceand
not
fairness with
.
deny,
. .
limitation,in all
Masonry
of salvation
"
does of
were
do
Christian
scheme
If the Christian
scheme
Masonry, Masonry could not admit into and Jew, and Buddhist, and Mohammedan, admit the Christian of whom Joss-worshipper,none
scheme which
"
of salvation.
we are
Even
our quoting, is not Judaism, though there is nothing in it to offend the Jew ; does he hold that the Christian is essentially scheme of salvation,which based on has come, has nothing rewho Christ, the Messiah pugnant faith of the Jew? to the religious Dr. exalted and What Mackey says of the faith of the Christian Mason, need inspired divinely and divinely in not detain us ; for if exalted inspired, much as Masonry not make as^ Christian, why does this exalted and divinely inspired faith its own? as Why does it take the Koran divinelyinspired?
"
"
"
and other
the
Vedas?
and
holds inspired? Of religion shall treat in dealing with American Freemasonry American and Christianity," and Freemasonry and the Bible." We here to only indicate the matter
"
every to be
other
book
which
"
show
our
readers
how
littlereliance
is to
be
put
on
the mouth
of Masonic
The
"
tendency
of all true
author,
is towards
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
109
Look at its holy end. ancient Landmarks, its subhme ceremonies, its profound ligious resymbols and allegories all inculcating doctrine, commanding religiousobservance, and teachingreligious truth, and who can deny that it is eminently a religious institution?" (Ibid., p. 641.) We do not deny it. It is eminently a certainly institution in its own and form of religion; religious are we gratefulto Dr. Mackey for confirmingagain and again our contention that Masonry is a religion. All its ceremonies, all its symbols, all its allegories Masonic doctrine and observances teach distinctively religious and nothing else. All have been expressly instituted for this purpose. They teach everything in in religion that a Mason needs to know or practise edifice of the eternal the raising of his spiritual life." They are distinctive of Masonry and restricted observances, to Masonry. Religioustruths, religious and distinctive of an of religion complete in matter of the word, a in every sense constitute, institution, distinct religion. But besides," says Dr. Mackey, Masonry is, in votional all its forms, thoroughly tinctured with a true despirit.We open and close our Lodges with of the Most invoke the blessing High upon prayer ; we of our demand a all our neoph)d:es labors; we fession probelief in the existence and the superof trusting intending teach them to bow of God; and we care his awful at with name, humility and reverence altars. our while his holy law is widely opened upon though and alFreemasonry is thus identified with religion; without be eminently religious man a may be that a Mason can being a Mason, it is impossible
ress,
"
its progress
is to
that
"
"
"
'
true
and
trusty
'
to
his Order
unless he be
respecter
no
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
of
religion and
What does be ? Does
an
observer
of
religious principle."
"
(Ibid.)
Dr.
man
may
"
a a
Mason
an
that
man
can
have
a
eminently true
That he
nature
can
of
God, without
an
being
true
have and
eminently
and of
idea of
the human
divine
essence,
that
That he entering Masonry? in an eminent can practise, degree, the true morality in Masonic taught by Masonry, and yet not participate which has, indeed, not been created in light, his mental chaos ? If a man be can ligious," eminently reaccording to the true religionof Masonry, all the claims without made entering its -portals, by Masonry in favor of its enlightenment are rudely brushed aside, and this Dr. Mackey will not do; if nence emiit must as eminently religious mean, mean, in error (for to Masonry, as we have seen, all outside itself is error), our noneminently religious Masons will not, we for his fancy, thank the Doctor than doubtful compliment. more But the religionof Masonry," finally concludes
soul, without
"
"
"
"
"
"
our
author,
"
is
not
sectarian.
It
admits
men
of
creed within its hospitable jecting bosom, rereligious and for his peculiar none approving none faith. It is not Judaism, though there is nothing in it but there is to offend a Jew; it is not Christianity, nothing in it repugnant to the faith of a Christian. Its religion is that general one of nature and tive primievery revelation ancient
men
"
handed
down
to
"
us
from in
some
and
patriarchalpriesthood
no
which differ.
all It
man
can
virtue, but
it
supplies no
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
iii
scheme
to not
of
for
points righteousness,but
the
sin.
It
claim
so
In
far,
for
way, therefore, it
be
'
the
truth, and
become
the
a
cannot
but Christianity,
as
its of
tendency
that
and,
often votaries
"
the
act
as
handmaid the
it religion,
does,
into
porch
of
may, introduces
the
temple
divine
truth.
institution ; Masonry, then, is,indeed, a religious the and this ground mainly, if not alone, should on it." Mason defend (Ibid., religious p. 641.) have of religion, we Masonry as the handmaid lieved already seen; and how little Dr. Mackey himself bein the theory you judge by the hymn in may of which, doubtless, he often joined in the precincts the Lodge.
"
Hail
Masonry
divine,
Glory of ages shine; Long may'st thou reign! Where'er thy Lodges stand, May they have great command, And always grace the land ;
Thou
art
divine."
hymn
Master's
"
is
is called the
"
maid hand;
comment
and
what
say
of
"divine"
Masonry,
the
"handmaid"?
Neither after shall
what
soon
we
have other
said, and
looking to
what dwell
we on
in of
the
claim
112
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
not
universal
"
the
for all
prejudice. Masonry, theory, universal, contrary, is, in the Masonic lic. cathofor all climes, above all prejudice, men,
of Roman
clime, of custom,
of
Not
Catholic,
no.
For Church of
that,
clime
to
to
sonry, Ma-
is not
the
Romans,
suited
"
humanity at large. Masonry, therefore, is the catholic religion and it tells its of mankind, true so initiates in speaking of behavior in a Lodge. Therefore be no privatepiques or quarrels must brought within the door of the Lodge, far less any nations, or State policy, or quarrels about religion, we being only, as Masons, of the catholic religion above mentioned." (Ritualist, p. 249). Masonry, therefore, is willing to receive into its charitable and expansive bosom, Jew, and Methodist,
"
and
Catholic, and
Divine and
Moslem,
Truth
"
religionof
God has
of the human
soul, truths
down They are truths handed preserved pure. by a patriarchal priesthood what priesthood,we told the religionof nature and of priminot are tive revelation. How through all the ages, amid the vicissitudes of time, the tendency of the human heart sonic to corrupt the truth, the admitted ignorance of Mateachers, the tendency of oral instruction to go alone succeeded in astray. Masonry preserving these truths pure, we told. not are Through what
" "
succession handed
of
bodies
is
or
individuals We
the
truths shall
see
were
down,
cannot
Masonry
of
its
own
that
count ac-
authenticated
asks of
its candi-
114
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
we
waive
the in
point.
our
What
we
have with
questioned,
the
to
is
proved
favor.
not
Even
fulness agree in
of Masonic the
constrained
may
in to God. they have differed even author, Finally, Masonry, says our suppliesno hence scheme of redemption for sin," and cannot
" "
They regard
still
differ, as
become p.
substitute
for
Christianity." (^Encyclopedia,
whom?
more
641.)
Cannot ask. the for supply the place of Christianity But we For its disciples ? repeat once
we
that
Buddhist, and
Mason
the
Confucian, and
the
hammedan Mo-
reject the
They
knows need
can
plenitudeof Masonic light Christian scheme of redemption for sin. live the eternal life of Masonry without it.
not
in the
It is therefore that
essential.
Moreover,
that
our
author is
no
Masonry
expressly holds
there
of any such of the old pagan is all .that Masons the sacred
the purification Initiation, mysteries, symbolized by the Acacia, scheme. need. For the
Acacia, which
is
plant of Masonry, signifies immortality, and author tells us initiation;and our sinlessness,
these
"
that that
to
three
meanings
must
are
closelyconnected
observed if
we
and
that
a
connection
be
desire
of the symbol." just interpretation {Enof "The Soul in treat cyclopedia,p. 9). When we Masonry," much light will be cast on the question of rewhy in Masonry there is no need of a scheme demption for sin.
obtain
proofs,since
itself admits so Masonry clearly that it is an shall draw this institution,we eminently religious who denied the chapter to a close. The Brethren fact, did not do so because they were that unaware
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
115
Masonry
because
might,
of the
if the
truth
to
were
that, in candid successfully Masonic hearts, Masonry must logicallyreplace That the Brethren had good reason for Christianity. their fears we have clearly shown do, as we ; differing, in this,with Dr. Mackey. We admit, indeed, with the Doctor, and without of dissent,that Masonry verifies the first three note a have we meanings assigned to the word religion ; and and above, that it verifies the fourth. It proved, over is a system of faith and worship ; it is therefore a not are religion. For the faith of Masonry, we It tells us obliged to go beyond the article before us.
" "
admission
show
of of
belief in God
and
; the
revelation
of His
will ;
state
constituting The the creed of a Mason. worship of Masonry we have seen elsewhere, and it consists mainly in the Our labor," says Dr. Mackey, labor of the Lodge. ship." (Symbolism of Freemasonry, p. 268), "is his woris lackingto Masonry to be a system of What faith and worship, a religion?
"
reward
punishment,
It is certain
that many
of the Brethren
confess
that
good enough for them, and that Masonry is a religion In a remarkable gathering in they need no other. the Masonic Temple, Oakland, California, Monday evening, April 24th, 1893, the object of which was Ygnacio Herrera to receive the heart of Ex-Governor Chapter, No. 5, Rose Croix, y Cairo by Gethsemane Bro. James G. C. Lee 32", and Colonel of the U. The called upon to respond to the toast S. A., when
"
President
of
the
United
"
States," said
for I know
"
Patriotism
no
coupled with
Masonry
of
religion
ii6
AMERICAN
FREEMASONRY
RELIGION
on our
earth
higher
will
was
than stand
Masonry
under
"
coupled
Samuel fact
with
that,
And
country
sentiment
any
the
reechoed
by
to
Bro. the
Holhad
one a
liday, who,
been
were
after years
adverting
a
forty
a
Mason,
he would
and be
a can
stating
a
good
son,
a
Mason,
patriotic man,
neighbor
more our
good
good
"
husband,
Now
if you that like
to
good
and of poor
friend,
the
added
condense
to
cardinal
virtues I would
we
ought
hear its churches
adorn
humanity,
that here
name. nor
Remember
have
tenets
are
neither
are
jarring They
are are
taries. sec-
Our
very
simple. They
less.
a
esty. hon-
They They
country
Remember that reveal It
as we
sincerity. They
are
kindness. devotion
to
more.
are
temperance,
Nothing
can
Nothing
I wish of
if you
on
find
to
better
religion
you it."
to
a
*
than
to
lead
us
the for
way
glory,
Dr.
would
it to
is
me,
I have
never
heard
therefore have
useless that It is
for
Mackey
is not
assert,
shown,
Masonry
not
a
substitute
we
for
Christianity.
for it in
perfect substitute,
decline the real in of
to
admit;
would what
naturally
it But considers it is
a
represent
of the
Christianity
that
sense
corruptions
substitute hearts such that in
religious
that it and
form.
displaces Christianity
becomes the
were
Christian;
Masonic
1
guide
hearts
to
glory.
from
of
a
Quoted
Masonic
see
pamphlet,
pp.
for
the
full
title and
scription de-
which
infra,
273
sq(j.
CHAPTER
VII
American
Freemasonry
and
Paganism
In
the
two
preceding chapters
is the has word
a
we
have We
proved
have
"
that not,
American
it is true,
Freemasonry always
but used this
rehgion.
"
word been
American
in avoid
our
a derstood, un-
demonstration,
needless
merely
is from aim We
to
repetition; the
for
we are
American
always
is shall the
quoting
Freemasons.
our
solely
whose
standard
American
Masonic
of American
authorities
structio in-
follow
ways al-
the
same
custom
throughout
book,
the
epithet
is
being
of.
But
understood
wherever
Masonry
that
spoken
is
while while
we we
have have
proved
shown
Masonry
have itself the
ligion; re-
logically
"
the
only religion;
with of its
heard
"
it,
consistently
of
claims,
;
we
calling
have
lic cathothe
religion
mankind An
us
left untouched
nature
its creed.
inquiry into
take in
our
the
next
step
for
to
present
That it
study. plainly
have
more
Masonry
What
to
is not We
answer
Christianity.
open
to
we
our
says.
is it?
some
Masonic
Ritualist, hoping
and
find
the
are
question,
rewarded
scarcely
than
a
begun
the
to
read, when
of
by
of
a
glimmering
outward it been
light.
for
The of
ritual
its is it
nature.
religion
For this What
we
is
expression
the Masonic
the
has
swer an-
invented;
this
employed.
make when
does
Ritualist of
tion ques-
it about
religion
Freemasonry?
117
Ii8
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
It has and
scarcely told
the
us
of
its
religiouscharacter,
in the openproprietyof ceremonies ing and closingof a Lodge, when it hastens duce to introof the pagan to those us once mysteries. And introduced shall riot find them to these mysteries, we chance shall find them, little by a acquaintance; we than than little, associates, more more friends; we shall discover what we never suspected,namely, a between intimate them and sonry. Mamost relationship But let us not forerun Dr. Mackey's instructions.
defended
"
In
the
"
Ancient
Mysteries,"says
rites which
ualist, Ritso
(those
sacred
models for Masonic many ceremonies of the most were sacred herald of in the Ancient
symbolism),
solemn
opening
The the
character.
Mysteries commenced
'
opening the greater initiations by the solemn formula of Depart hence, ye profane ! to added forbade the which was a proclamation which of any language that might be deemed of unfavorable use to the approaching rites." {Ritualist, augury p. 12.) These of one who words certainlyare the words The sacred rites," the most reverences paganism.
ceremonies
' " "
solemn
character,"
And
"
"
the
sacred
herald,"
reserve
"
the
solemn
the
feelingsof
of
he
speak
so
otherwise
furnished
?
not
Masonic
sacred
symbolism
models
to
as
It would
revere
adopt
not,
and
at enter
them.
however,
as soon
stop
we
affectionate
the
reverence,
must,
pagan
Lodge,
our
take
part in
ceremonies.
sets
And
hence
25-27)
forth
the elaborately
author
FREEMASONRY holism
AND
PAGANISM
119
of
proceeds
the
"
the
rite of first
circumamhulation.
us
He
of
gives
the
definition
term.
The
rite of Latin
circumamhulation,"
verb
'
he
"
says,
to
derived walk
from
the
circumambulare,'
ance anything, is the name given to that observin all the religious ceremonies of antiquity, which consisted in a procession around altar or some an other sacred object." and cast Having thus defined circumamhulation around it the halo of antiquity, he proceeds : and the people,when Thus, in Greece, the priests engaged in their sacrificial rites,always walked three times around the altar while singing a sacred hymn.
"
around
Macrobius
to to
tells
us
that
the ceremony
had
reference
the motion
of the
the
ancient
harmonious
was
sound
'
human
ears,
which in making
was course
called this
the music
spheres.' Hence,
the of
procession around
move
altar, great
the
care
taken of the
to
sun.
in For
imitation
apparent
this purpose
they
commenced
at
the
proceeding by way of the south to the west, and thence by the north, they arrived at the east again. that the right side By this method it will be perceived to the altar." was always nearest dear wise are In such reader, transported to we,
east, and pagan
Greece
in the We
and
both
manner
are
circumamhulation
to
part in
sun
pagan
which exercise
every
has
care
for
we
its
that
imitate
its apparent
tion. mo-
"
But,"
we
ask,
"
even
granting that
the
ancient
I20
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
Greeks
and
Romans
did
we,
therefore, should
that the
know
argument,
they
our
should,'holds good only when theirs? belief and practice is essentially religious
did, therefore
our
'
If
be different,the argument is exactly the religion should not.' If, opposite they did, therefore we therefore,Masonry defends its use of the rite because and these pagans of as practisedit, the relationship be concealed." Masonry to paganism cannot But ship. Masonry has no wish to conceal its relationAfter and quoting the practiceof the Hindoos the Druids in imitating and reveringthe course of the
"
sun,
"
it hastens Hence
we
on
to
assert
find in the
universal mode
and
to the
in the invariable
west
the way of the south, with consequently right hand or side to the altar, a nant pregof the common of all these rites source
by
primitiveorigin,to which Freemasonry is also indebted for its existence." {Ibid., p. 27.) Greek and Roman heathenism, Brahminism which, according to Dr. Mackey, adored the sun, Druidism, -Freemasonry, all practisingthe same religiousrites, a evidence, says Masonry, that we are pregnant all sprung from the same An fying ediprimitivesource!
sisterhood this may
initiated Mason,
but
a
indeed
sisterhood
confess, there
else.
In
is
simply paganism
would prove
nothing
universal
fact, when
the of
Masonry
the
prevalence of
nations
rite of circumambulation
makes
a
among
the
it antiquity,
notable
omission.
It
122
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
Even well
to
if read
we
understand
in Latin
no
Latin;
if
we
even
if
a
we
are
fairlyat
even
have
Plautus
an
hand
text.
not
consult, it is
even
easy
matter
to find
isolated say
so,
And every
if
character in and
were, to
an
in Plautus author's
does
character ideas
play represents
of the author.
the But
personal
even
sentiments what
to
if Plautus is
he
poet,
going
The
go
all the
long
sonal per-
tedious
examination,
difficulties of
"
and, perhaps,
search
to
are
fruitless
the
fatal to in
what there
; to
admit
is easier
drink
it flatter the
secret
desire
heart:
but
such
system
With
is the hearers
prolific parent
accustomed
to
the
blindest
credulity.
unaccustomed
"
one
of
the
men can
body
and
of
one
reasoning,and tigation to careful, painstaking personal invespation has only to talk loudly of the emanciof the inability of any man intellect, or to dictate to us our belief, religious
"
inaccurate
and
all his
characters
and
let
return
to
"
circumambula-
tion."
Having, therefore,established
what the
"
to
his
own
tion satisfac-
he
considers the
to
be the pregnant
evidence
:
of
originof
The referred
Craft, Dr.
the
Mackey
of
continues
the pagan
circumambulation
to
was
great
among doctrine
nations
or sun-
Sabaism
worship. Freemasonry alone has preserved the primitive a meaning, which was symbolicalallusion to the of physicallightand the most the source sun as derful wonwork of the Grand
Architect
of the Universe,"
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM the
123
in the ceremony modern lectures of Webb and Cross," he continues, "is absolutely beneath criticism. The Lodge represents
reason
"The
assigned for
in his three
three
the
apparent
course
of
the
solar
the world. This is points around with its astronomical us tual symbolism. But its intellecand the symbolism is that the circumambulation obstructions at various points refer to the labors and
through
these
in his progress
from
tual intellec-
the know light is growing for us, we now form of paganism with which hood. Masonry claims sisterIt is the sun-worship of the ancients. But before commenting on author it,let us allow our to instruct us still further on the subject. Sun masonry, worship," he says {Encyclopedia of Freeintroduced into the mysteries, was p. 766) i but as the means of expressnot as a material idolatry, ing
" "
an
idea of
the
restoration
to
life from
death, drawn
solar To of all
after
sun,
too,
as
the
regenerator
or
revivifier
is the phallic worship, which made a prominent things, be attributed. From the to part of the mysteries, in which Mithraic sun initiations, worship played so of their important a part, the Gnostics derived many symbols. These again exercised their influence over
the has
mediaeval
become
so
as
Freemasons.
Thus
it is that
the
sun
of course,
124
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
symbol,
many Remark
the
which
presents itself in
well, dear
for itself the modern of the
claimed
by
Masonry
born of
works;
similar
of mediaeval the
born
Gnostics, born
Mithraic
or primitivesun mysteries,born of Sabaism ship worship or the worworship, in all of which phallic of the generative faculties of man played a prominent ry? worship in Masonpart. Shall we find the same We must expect to do so, if the heart's naturally blood and of modern Masonry and the ancient spirit if, as we told, the are mysteries are the same; pagan Let difference is one us, merely of external form. call that we however, delay our answer a little, may attention to an expressionor two of our author and lustra introduce that may some help to further ilpassages our subject. the most is called In Mackey's Ritualist the sun
"
wonderful and
work
of
the
Grand
Architect
of
the
verse," Uni"
regenerator
in the passage justquoted it is styled the revivifier of all things." It is, moreover, or
is never called it, always spoken of personified; but always he. Now such constant personification may, in English,be understood in poetry, in which fication personiin is perfectly in place;but in prose, especially plainritualistic prose, no sensible,much less,educated
man
would
use
it except
"
sun,
how
is
light,"
work
What
of the soul
? and
What
free will?
these
are
the
product of
or
the
tellect ? Life, and inspirit Masonry hold that even sun's material light, the
"
regenerator
revivifier of all
things
"
Is this the
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
1^5
we are
nature
and from
essence
of the human
If its
soul
that
to
learn taken
expressions are
answer
"
to
be
must
we are
all these of
tions ques"
in its most
are
; if the
to
be taken
then differently,
the children
As, however,
shall
are
deal
with
present
sun
with
fullyelsewhere, callingattention
system.
satisfied for
to
the
prominence
of the This
in the Masonic
symbolism prominence of the sun in Masonic illustrate for us Masonic will,therefore, naturally fication puriualist, In the Ancient Mysteries,"says the Ritthe first step taken by the candidate was p. 40, The candidate not perwas a lustration or purification. mitted
" "
to
enter
vestibule
or
to
take
any
water
part
or
in the
secret
was
until by initiation,
fire he
emblematicallypurifiedfrom
which he
was
of the world A
about
the exists in Freemasonry, where principle to the Entered first symbols presented Apprentice are of the heart, of inculcate which those a purification of the body in the Ancient the purification which symbolic. We no longer make use of Mysterieswas in our the bath or the fountain, because philosophic abstract." system the symbolism is more natural agent of purification Truly fire is a far more
similar
than water,
look upon
the
nature.
sun
as
and purifier
regenerator of
blood
it when
From
the warmth
so
of
our
passion.
the pagans
of
ship they made the worof human part passiona prominent and principal strumen is the symbol and intheir sun worship. Water in Christian baptism ; but Maof purification
understood
126
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
sonry
too
is not
Christian
and
finds
Christian
symbolism
the of
abstract. But
why
is may
purification by
ask.
common
as
water
a
too
common
abstract?
uninitiated
Is not
water
symbol
is soiled and
our
cleanser it
our purifies in making
of what hands it
a
and
face,
is there of
our
abstract heart ?
symbol
our
of
ficatio puri-
To in the
understand
must
read
his words
author
the Kabbala
the old Jewish Kabbala regarding man from which derived Masonry has, in great measure, its philosophy. In this system the seat of intelligence
"
the
brain
but
the
as
heart. with
us,
Purification the
of
the
of purification We
speak
it
are
of
washing
the
it.
obscure the
It is purified when
the clouds
ignorance
are
that
miasmata
that
befoul
it
dissipated
by
the rays of the sun. Purification of heart is therefore that spiritual illumination of which Masonry has
to
us
Enlightenment," and which it has fully revealed to us in speaking of the material This purification of the heart, lightof the sun. this science peculiar to the ancient pagan mysteries,and to Masonry, is indeed better representedby fire than by since fire burns where water water, quenches. It is from the Kabbala, which has drawn deeply from the ancient pagan mysteries,as likewise from these mysteries to ask an themselves, that we are explanation of what Masonry is, and of Masonic symbols. To us, who the relationship of Masonry to the already know however, to have mysteries,the fact is evident ; we like, renewed from the lips of our assurance Ritualist.
spoken
in the
"
Shock
of
FREEMASONRY
"
AND
PAGANISM
127
have 42, ities technical"
Learned
Masons,"
it says,
on
always disposedto go beyond mere and stereotypedphrases of the lectures and to look in the history and philosophy of the ancient religions and the organizationof the ancient mysteriesfor a true explanationof most of the symbols of Masonry, and there they have always been able to find this true interpretation." Go, therefore,initiated and uninitiated alike,go all would outward study Masonry, not in its mere ye who of form, which does not afford the true interpretation its symbols, but in its inward and essence, go to spirit the old pagan mysteries;enter into their history,and and sonry organization, philosophy,and you will find Mait reallyis. We as must, as Dr. Mackey tells Masonry. Learned us, study paganism to understand
Masons have
ever
been
pp. the
41,
always
What
very
been
able
sources,
and
have
the
true
tion. interpreta-
more
natural, when
the pagan you
of spirit
the
life-blood,the
Masonry
from
are
identical?
Would
hear
assertion
sonic Ma-
lips? Listen to Dr. Mackey, as, in his Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 297, he descants on what of Masonry. he calls the prehistoric era that then for the prehistoric And era," he says, it with the mysteries of the pagan "which connects world, and with the old priestsof Eleusis, of Salet us honestly say that we mothrace, or of Syria no now longer treat of Freemasonry under its present
" "
" "
did not exist in those know which we organization, and peculiar only,to the days, but of a science peculiar, science which a we Mysteries and to Freemasonry, call Masonic symbolism, and which constituted may
"
128
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
the
very
heart-blood gave
an
of the
to
ancient
and
the
modem
and institutions,
of spirit." identity This, then, is the old patriarchalpriesthood for which have been looking in our preceding chapter, we the pagan priesthood of Eleusis, or of Samothrace, this priesthoodthat Masonry of Syria ! It is from or claims to derive its religious doctrine, the pure truths the truth of God of primitive faith, Divine Truth of form,
"
"
and
of
the
human the
soul
source
"
nature
and
essence
of
both."
Behold
Masonic that
we
mination. illureligious
are
asked
to
temporal
and
destinies
of mankind."
with paganism, as contained identity in the pagan to not we are Mysteries, surprised find our Romans brethren. author callingthe pagan He is speaking of faith or fidelity as symbolized by the righthand. The has in all ages been right hand," he says, deemed the emblem of fidelity, ancient brethren and our of Fides or Fidelity, worshiped deity under the name sometimes which was represented by righthands joined and sometimes by human figuresholding each other Numa the first who erected was by the right hand. altar to Fides, under which the goddess of an name oaths and honesty was worshiped. Obligationstaken
of its asserted
" "
in her
name
were
considered
as
more
inviolable than
others."
It is
"
brethren
have
"
our
ancient
of
a
pagan
erect
goddess,
an
and
have
Brother but
Numa
first to
honor;
sacred
same,
I30
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
Jerusalem, we read in The Symbolism of struction were engaged in the conFreemasonry, pp. 85, 86, cated of an earthlyand material temple,to be dediin house a to the service and worship of God which to dwell by his Shekinah, visibly Jehovah was and Thummim, to he was, and whence by the Urim
masons
of
"
"
send
forth
his oracles
for
the
government
and
tion direc-
people. the operative art [the building of material Now as speculative edifices]having, for us, ceased, we, Masons, symbolize the labors of our predecessorsby of a spiritual temple in engaging in the construction fit for the dwelling-place hearts, pure and spotless, our God where is to who is the author of purity of Him and in truth,and whence be worshiped in spirit every the evil thought and unruly passionis to be banished as
"
"
of his chosen
sinner
and
the
Gentile
were
excluded
from
the
sanctuary
"
the all
Jewish Temple. This of the Temple spiritualizing the most first, prominent and most the instructions of Freemasonry."
this, which
is
seems so
of the
of Solomon
is
of
pervading
even
All
orthodox
and
tian, Chris-
Ritualist informs The Masonic purely pagan. idea of the legend [of the us (pp. 112, 113), "The from the was temple-builder] undoubtedly borrowed Ancient the same as Mysteries,where the lesson was plain Exthat conveyed in the third degree of Masonry." the Temple as you will ; make it represent, as it sometimes Christ spoke of as does, the body of man, it represent the soul of the temple of His body ; make it represent the world at large,humanity man ; make here and hereafter; the builder of these temples is Masonry; and the type accordingto which each is to be
fashioned, is
to
be
taken
from
the
ancient
pagan
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
131
"
from them. The mysteries. The idea is borrowed Egyptian Temple," says Dr. Mackey, Encydopcedia, nacle, taberthe real archetype of the Mosaic was P- 795 of the temple of Jerusalem." Symthat was as bolism,
"
"
therefore, based
be if you
can,
referred dear
to
the
latter,
must
mately ulti-
Realize,therefore,
Masonic fluence in-
reader, whither
the inner
to-day is directed, and what its must outcome be, when paganism,as concentrated and expressed in the idea of a pagan temple, is what, with it is laboringincessantly all the forces at its command, The and intellectual the moral to establish. physical, life of the individual;the constitution of the family; tinies of humanity; the eternal desthe state; the religion
of
the world
of the
soul, are
all to be recast
on
the model in
of
is the aim
of
Masonry
teaching
for worship; and the essentially temple was twofold, so worship of paganism was Masonry assures us ; the idolatrous worship of the common ple, peothe secret worship of the mysteries. Masonry the latter. The repudiatesthe former, and embraces Temple, as expressiveof this worship and identified with it,is the type, then, that Masonry proposes to has author esoteric eyes, and this worship is,as our To the sun, too, as the retold us, phallic generator worship. revivifier of all things is the phallic ship, woror to which made a prominent part of the mysteries, be attributed." {Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, p. 766). On this point there is no doubt, for page after firmation; from Mackey's works could be quoted in conpage abstain merely out of respect for the we readers. are of our If, however, we obliged feelings readers must our delicacy, to trench somewhat upon
"
"
132
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
cannot
speak
with
with its
any
"
fulness
about
deahng
"
essence.
of Freemasonry, p. the meaning of the word, states that in Egypt, where, after the mursaid to have originated der is symbolically to be of Osiris by Typhon, which of the sun's explained as the destruction or deprivation lightby night,Isis,his wife, or the symbol of nature, in the search for his mutilated body, is said to have of generation; found all the parts except the organs which myth is simply symbolic of the fact that the sun had having set, its fecundatingand invigorating power The ceased. therefore, as the symbol of the phallus, male ated venerwas generativeprinciple, very universally that too as a religious the ancients, and among the slightest reference to any rite,without impure or lascivious application." Why, in the mysteries,worship should be paid to the male author has not explained; our generativeprinciple, he has merely stated and approved the fact. Why such symbolism should be employed to represent obvious a fact as that of the shining of the daily so and its ceasing, is likewise sun unexplained. The it so story of Osiris and Isis is an invention ; why was invented the changes of nature, changes as to express well known the rising and the settingof the sun? as did the ancients invent such fables and Why employ To state that they did so without such symbols? the reference to any impure or lascivious applicaslightest tion, such. We shall depends on what is considered of Masonic show, in treating morality,that Masonic purity is far different from Christian,just as pagan The commandment of God to Moses: purity was.
"
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
133
"
Thou Thou
shalt not
shalt not
commit
"
by their as given by Bro. i8.") In his Symbolism of Freemasonry, p. 113, Dr. Mackey, after giving the passage quoted above, cites Sonnerat Indes Orient., I. p. 118) to (Voyage aux of the ancient support his opinion of the immaculateness Sonnerat that observes," he says, worship. the professors of this worship were of the purest principles
"
"
and its companion : adultery," covet spicuous thy neighbor'swife," are conabsence from the Masonic decalogue Pike, Morals and Dogma, pp. 17-
and
never
most
unblemished
conduct, and
could
it
seems
to have
entered
of the Indian be
and
legislator grossly
ture na-
obscene."
Truly, nothing
taken in the circumstances
accordance
with
its fulness
and
and
taken completeness,
in
limitations
"
which
rational nature
imposes,can be obscene blesses the union religion blesses it. Every child
the love which and has given
Every
and itations lim-
wife, as God
mother there
our are
birth.
restrictions
rational
imposed
is And
not
faculties outside
even
by
these
nature,
sensual
indulgence
to man,
restrictions
natural
Masonry itself for a long time (Cf.Encyclopaedia, p. 108), recognizedthese from the limitations in excluding bastards Order, ing indulgent. If nothMasonry is more though modern sons that may be called natural is obscene, why are Maof Masons' wives required to respect the chastity and of Freemasonry, daughters"? (Encyclopcedia p. 160).
"
if it be to the brute.
134
"
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
But
the
Phallus," Mackey
continues,
"
or,
as
it
was
called among the Lingam, was the Orientalists, a of the male principle representation only. To perfect the circle of it is necessary generation, Accordingly we find in the Yoni of the Indians,
to
advance
one
step farther.
Greeks female with and
was
cave conor
or pedestal,
on receptacle,
which
centre
column
rested, and
what has
from
the
it
impatient reader.
Mackey
ancient
brethren," he says
their
our
; but modern
Masons
John
who two were John the Evangelist, eminent patrons of Masonry ; and since their time there is represented in every regular and well-governed embordered Lodge, a certain point within a circle, by St. John two lines, representing perpendicular parallel the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, and upon the top rests the Holy Scriptures. The point represents individual brother; the circle is the boundary line an to sufifer his prejudices or beyond which he is never In going round this circle we to betrayhim. passions lines as well as the touch upon these two necessarily and while a Mason cumscribe keeps himself cirHoly Scriptures, within these due bounds, it is impossible that he should materially err." continues The our author, a circle," point\yithin is an sonry, important and interesting symbol in Freemabut it has been so debased in the interpretation
Baptistand
St.
"
"
FREEMASONRY
of it
AND
PAGANISM
135
sooner
that the given in the modern lectures, is forgottenby the Masonic interpretation
that the
student
The
symbol
is
allusion to the
to
as
but a beautiful really old sun-worship, and that modification the of the
introduces
it known
among
worship
of
phallus." he continues, was The phallus," imitation of an the male generative It was representedusually organ. surrounded by a column, which was by a circle at its female generative base, intended for the cteis, or organ. This union of the phallusand the cteis was intended by the ancients as a type of the prolific powers of nature, which they worshiped under the united form of the active or male principle, and the passiveor female principle. Impressed with this idea of the union of these two principles, they made the older of their deities hermaphrodite, and supposed Jupiter,or the Supreme God, to have within himself both sexes, or,
" "
. . .
as a
of their poets expresses it, to have " male and an unpolluted virgin.'
one
"
'
been
created
Now
this
hermaphrodism
on
of
"
the
was
was
to say,
be
represented by
and
the sun,
which
the universe, which or by nature principle.And this union was was prolific by the symbolized in different ways, but principally the sun, point within the circle,the point indicating energy, the female and
of nature,
wanned
into life
by
John, the eminent the Lodges are dedicated, patrons of Freemasonry, to whom to do with this sun, this phallic worship? Learn in Masonic lesson symbolism, one of the earliest a
But
the
two
Saints
136 taught
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
in
Masonry,
and
when
you
have
mastered
it,
thin is the Christian how you will understand hides the paganism underneath.
"
veil that
The
are
two
in the
modern
tures LecSt.
Evangelist,"he ticular parAt two course. periods in the sun's annual is found in the the sun particular points in this course zodiacal signs of Cancer and Capricorn,which disare the summer and winter solstice. When as tingt^ished the sun is in these points,he has reached respectively
his
John
the
greatest
we
northern
and
southern
limit.
These
points,if
annual the the the
the circle to represent the sun's suppose will be indicated course, by the points where touch these the circle. But the
lines parallel
sun
reaches of
points are
and the has
two
the
21st
22d
December,
the Church
subsequent applicationto
anniversaries
John,
these
placed near
"
days."
{Ritualist, p. 63.)
"
So," concludes
our
guide,
of
a
the true
same
interpretation
as
point within
and Wardens
Lodge.
and the Wardens
The
symbolism
The the
in both.
sun
"
Lodge, of the universe or the world; the and the surpoint also is the symbol of the same rounding sun, circle of the universe,while the two parallel lines reallypoint,not to two saints, but to the two
and southern
northern
limits
of
the
sun's
course."
(Ibid.)
passages insight into the Few of
our
Ritualist
of
hoUowness the
give us Masonry's
It
starts
clearer
Christian
out
pretenses, than
preceding.
with
138
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
elusions.
and His
The
Lodge
Saints !
these
is
opened
in the
name
of
God
holy
who
And sun's
"
are
holy Saints
In the Cancer
Two of
pointsin
God
and
the the
annual zodiacal
course.
name
holy
signs of
Lodge is opened for sacred and the holy Saints are such, what is the God with whom this is the instruction of the And they are united? is Thus Entered Apprentice,the novice in Masonry! he introduced to phallic worship, the worship of the nature, and generallyat generativefaculties of human he is but too inclined,apart from a period of life when with instruction,to such worship. And any Masonic it raised to the dignityof a religious cult,his purified
Masonic
"
and
the natural
to the
worshiped the
initiate. His
pure."
the human
The
frame,
Horace
proachabl irrean
in morals sensual
so
will he be.
so pressed exindulgence, unblushingly in his Odes, was only the sowing of wild oats natural but to youth. Alcibiades so was an initiate, should not like to give a picture of his morals. So we Tiberius,but who has not heard of Capri? was tion Yet in every well regulatedLodge, for the instrucand edification of the Brethren, there is the phallic the point within circle. a symbol Nay the very Lodge, the pillarsof the Lodge, the officers of the Lodge, the most ordinary symbols employed by the Lodge, all express to the initiated the same meaning. have seen, is a type of the Temple The Lodge, as we of Solomon, itself in turn of the phallic a copy tian Egyptemples. Would asserted, in you hear the same ? words, of the buildingof Solomon explicit The followingdescription of Solomon's Temple, by
"
"
FREEMASONRY
AND
PAGANISM
139
work, Rivers
Masonic
"
of paedia," encyclo"
Bro.
McClenachan
in his
Addendum
Dr.
1004, the
what,
Temple of Solomon
That
the ark-box
instructive to the
"
? Fraternity with
porch
is
or
is in actower phallic cordance with a whole Sivaik shrine; that the towerbut the Egyptian obelisk, the Buddhist or lars, pil-
those
of
Hercules
, ,
.
which That
an
stood altar
was
near an
the ark
Phoenician temple.
with So
*
mercy
seat,' or placeof
us a
fire and
"
sacrifice."
temples are the phallicworshipers of common especially among southern India. A loftyentrance-porch usuallyadorns the front; on find phallicpoles, with entering we altars for sacrifice, etc.; and in the innermost recess
the sanctuary So again: and
or
he
tells
little later,
Such
oracle
of the Cultus."
"This
of the phalli, position Jachin and Boaz." The same theory is again touched on, on p. 1015, The and even its more tree and fullyon p. 1016. lotus top, says Kitto, took the place of the Egyptian famous Solomon's column the Jachin and on phalli, Boaz." (p. 1017.) These stood in the porch of Solomon's two pillars of the same temple, and two pillars Jachin and name, adorn the Masonic Boaz, their representatives, Lodge. Solomon's a phallic temple, the Lodge is temple was is its representation, the world manity huits representation, is its repthe individual is its representation; resentatio this plan all to be built up on this is Masonry. To this has Masonry, with its paganism
"
" " "
FREEMASONRY
led symbols, infallibly. pagan it showed its
AND
PAGANISM
us
First
reverence
love
for
as
sacred, and
pagan models
obliged its candidate to walk around the Lodge from and ot the south east by way in imitation of the sun's dailycourse, introducing west him to the sun worship of the ancients,the sun being the purifier it led him and vivifier of all things. Then but to a community of origin, on a difference of form of spirit, in American identity Masonry and the pagan mysteries. It traced its history back through the Gnostics to the Mithraic mysteries or phallic worship, of sun a modification worship. It referred its studious for the true meaning of to the pagan disciple mysteries its own symbols, assuringhim that the true meaning of such symbols would be found there. It recognized
Next
even as
it
brethren
name
and idolaters,
traced
back
Mason,
It
of the
a
pagan
but
or
copy.
;
so
ship wor-
of Isis
our
nature
it is called
is
sensual
our
nature.
This
why
To
we
the
in and
intellectual
condition,for
and
Christian teach
reason
this
worship
is the
Lodge
the
adorned
hood morning and noonday and evening of manare Jachin and Boaz ; the columns of ; its pillars and Beauty sustain the Lodge, and Wisdom, Strength,
a
column
is but
Buddhist
and
as a
phallic meaning;
there within is found
circle
regulated Lodge the point of the sacred and reas a circle, significative ligious of the Lodge, and this point within a purposes is the pagan phallic symbol.
in every
well
CHAPTER
VIII
The
God
of
American
Freemasonry
"
It is
lesson
every his he
Mason
is
taught
the
no
at
one
of
the
earliest p.
points
"
initiation," says
should first
commence
Masonic
Ritualist,
14,
invoking
in
the
a
the
blessing
next
step
to
is of the
address Universe. is to
the
prayer,
offered
every
by
So
Master,
at
be
participated
the
brother,
of
'
and,
mote
its
:
conclusion,
audible
response
it be
Amen,'
should
be
made
by
"
all
present." Lodge
name
The
"
declared,"
and
on
continues
the
ist, Ritual-
in the
the the
Holy
Saints
John,
or
to
be
opened
of
"
in
form,
as
first, second,
may
to
third
degree
A
Masonry,
the
"
case
be." be
"
Lodge,"
of
God
it adds, the
"
is said Saints
opened
the
our
in
the
name
and
Holy
a our
John of of
(italics those
sacred and
of
the
Ritualist),
purposes
as
declaration
religious
reverence
of
meeting, Being
whose
profound
and
our
that be of
Divine
the
our
name
constant
themes
for
of
respect
of
those
have
ancient
so
patrons
whom
the
traditions with
seen
Masonry
the
intimately
connected
We
have
the
history of
who these
"
Institution."
of
patrons
the sacred
Masonry,
so
revered
by the
Craft,
are,
and
holy signs
141
142 of Cancer
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
and in the Capricorn; in their name, of the God of Masonry, the Lodge is opened for name and sacred rehgious purposes," and the candidate and is introduced to what, phallicworship. Who God? is the next therefore, is this Masonic question that naturallyfaces us; and though the question may readers' little thought and study on our require some that they will not begrudge it,appreare sure part, we ciating and
"
"
which
we
purposely
of
involved
and of
twisted
the
with
the
intention
Masonic
keeping us knowledge, it is
the
"
lay
bare
Pike
only
stated
once
and
or briefly obscurelyhinted at." If Masons are willingto give their for to teach acquire this knowledge,
"
"
our a
readers
may
well consider
all that sober
a we
bargain;
of
as we
when
ask
half
as
hour much
earnest,
can
thought.
few pages, learn in
into
than
degree by
our terials ma-
degree, whereas
out
with
the
to
various
degrees spread
each
before
at
us,
allowed
select from
pleasure.
Masonry, therefore, admits a God ; prays to a God ; worships a God; will not admit a candidate unless he believe in a God. ant Freemasonry is exceedinglytolerin respect to creeds," says Dr. Mackey pedia, {Encycloit does require that date p. 624), "but every candi"
in the existence
of God in
a
and
modifica-
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
tions of
two
tenets." It makes
difference who
or
or
what the
is
"
he
may
be and
Buddha,
Christ, or
of the the
God
rian Unita-
the is
a
illumination
nature
as
of
deity or other, and the wonderful Masonry will reveal to you the true
of God. you have You
not
and
essence
have had
not
known
God
light; you have not been taught in the beautiful symbols and borrowed from the old patriarchal allegories pagan of Samothrace, or Eleusis, priesthood or Syria, and have studied in pagan not mysteries the symbols of have deity. In these symbols, learned Masons ever
found
He
is;
for
Masonic
Divine
the
Truth, the
nature
and
essence
of
God.
kindly join us in the journey. Since a Lodge is the religious temple of Masonry, we naturallyturn thither for a symbol of the deity;for, all the truths of Masonry are contained in symbols, as the chief, the all-important be lacking. symbol, cannot It will doubtless be prominent and at once strike the eye. sonic And, sure enough, on page 95 of the Mais given, a Ritualist, pictureof the Lodge room and there, surrounded by a halo of glory, suspended This evidently the Master's head, is the letter G. over found His have God. We signifies symbol in the about to turn away, when we are Lodge, and, satisfied, our eye is startled by the instructions that precede and in searchingfor the God of follow the symbol. Even forgotten that its Masonry we had, for the moment,
way,
Taught
God
is not
our
God.
into
The
section
which
the
picture of
the
Lodge
"
illumined
by
The
144 Moral
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
Advantages
of of
of
remarkable
noblest
assertion
with
the
which
thought that theology, the science of God and of divine things,was the first and noblest of sciences. Geometry, as its very name It means belongs to the earth. literally, expresses, earth measurement; and deals with points, and lines, and surfaces,and solids,all of which necessarily pose supis the science that treats matter; how essentially
we
What!
Masonry is exclaim,
erected."
we
of
matter
"
the
a
first and
noblest
of
sciences
"
Or
Geometry and not God ? Or it express does that God, so Geometry and Geometry to the Mason, the Builder, is his theology, his science of God ? Is this the thread which will help from this Masonic to extricate us labyrinth? It is. Our last suppositionthat the glorious G represents Masonic theology and God, or the Masonic Deity
does the G in
glory
express
"
for God
we
"
shall is the
find that
true
Masons for
do
not
like the
word
one;
Geometry
is the
Masonic
symbol
"
Truth.
As
Catholic," says
"
Dr.
Mackey
in
his
Encyclopcedia, pp.
churches, the
300,
301,
and
in many
or
tant Protesin
some
prominent symbol
a
sculptured
as
found
the
pressive ex-
of may
Lodge
on
letter G
or
be
seen
the
wall
over
sculptured in
metal, and
pended sus-
the Master's
chair.
This
the most prominent,certainly symbols of Freemasonry. It is the Burns alluded which in those he
to
which
often-
the poet
well-known
of
and
quoted lines,in
speaks
146 302),
can
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
"that
into
G,
the
ever
mitted adThere
be
no
letter G
is
It is, in fact, a
ruption cor-
Kabbalistic
name
symbol, the
God
" "
ter let-
yod, by
the
most
which
the
name,
sacred the
of
in fact, is
pressed. ex-
sacred This
Tetragrammaton
the is
as
word with
nirr,
or
letter
initial letter of
be
the
met
or
was
constantlyto
the
among symbol of
never
"
Hebrew that
at most
abbreviation indeed
written
holy length."
adds,
the
"
name,
which,
Now,"
he
as
is, in like
manner
the
English equivalent of the Hebrew tended Jehovah, the letter has been adopted as a symbol into supply to modern Lodges the place of the Hebrew symbol. First adopted by the English ritual
makers, it has, without remark, been
transferred
to the
initial of God,
Masonry of the Continent, and it is to be found as a symbol in all the systems of Germany, France, Spain, sonry MaItaly,Portugal, and every other country where has been introduced only ; although in Germany it serve, as it does in England, for an can intelligent symbol." The letter G, then," he goes on to inform has, us, in Masonry, the same force and signification that the letter yod had the Kabbalists. It is only a among and as that is a symbol letter, symbol of the Hebrew of God, the letter G is only a symbol of a symbol." the quotation here, lest our We break readers get entangled in the phraseology of the learned Doctor. The letter yod, he says, expressed the nature of God, according to the Kabbalists, with whose theory we
" "
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
147
the first letter
in
accord, for it
as
was
Jehovah
The the
understood letter
and
was,
interpreted by
therefore, the
Kabbalists.
of
yod
symbol
now
Kabbalistic
takes
a
and
Masonic
Deity.
hence
But
the letter G
represents yod, is
the
It therefore is
a
symbol
of
symbol.
will
naturallyask, why is not G a symbol of Jehovah as much Is not as God, Jehovah; yod? and is it, therefore, that G Jehovah, God? Why is not as much a symbol of Jehovah as yod is? We shall answer the question fully in our next chapter, but it will not be inopportuneto answer it briefly here. of the Catholics, we Christians,we Jehovah, as we world understand and adore Him, profane,un-Masonic is not the God Our of Masons. Jehovah is the Jehovah of the Bible; the Masonic Jehovah is the Are tally. Tothey different? Jehovah of the Kabbala.
It is
on
But, you
this the
account
that, in the
of all the
"
Shock ties
of
was
Enlightenment,"
demanded of you, the true You could
rupture
old
that you might form new life. Deity,and live the new
ones,
ship wor-
scarcelyexpect Masonry to worship the Here is the picture Jehovah of the early Hebrews. drawn of Him by the facile pen of Bro. Pike {Morals and Dog)iia, p. 207). talked to Adam The Deity of the early Hebrews in it in he walked and Eve in the garden of delight, as with Kayin; he sat the cool of the day; he conversed in his tent; that patriarchreand ate with Abraham quired
"
he
would
believe
in his
to expostulate promise; he permittedAbraham positive mination with him, and to induce him to change his first deterin regard to Sodom; he wrestled with Jacob;
148
he
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
showed
Moses the of
his person,
dictated
minutest the
though not his face; he mension police regulationsand the diand its
tabernacle
on
furniture,
to
the
Israelites ; he insisted
irresolute;he allowed
the
acts
Moses
him
out
his the
most
the heart barbarity. He hardened repented of the evil that he had said he would do unto he did it not, to the disgust the people of Nineve ; and and anger of Jonah." The animus is plain to all; its unof this passage fairness is equallyplainto any one who, even though ing. is willing to give the subject a fair hearunbelieving, Pike knows well as we that, in speaking of as God, we must needs use human language ; that in using human language we use an imperfect medium ; that in speaking employing such a medium, both the person and the person spoken to, make due allowances ; that it is not honest to take figurative language, and all partakes of this language used in reference to God nature, since it is verified only analogically, it is not
" "
honest,
If
we
say,
to
take
and
translate
it into
literal
language,
we
and
assert
hero
is
lion, we
assert
assert
what
is
a an
all
language
sanctions
; if we
that
us.
only genius
now
no eagle,
will condemn
But
along, and, unwilling to between the underlying truth and the mode distinguish of expressingit, presently to ridicule us commences that we have given four feet,a mane and a tail to our hero; and talons, and feathers, and a beak to our
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
149
genius. We have done no such thing. Neither when the Scripturerepresents God does it give as talking, Him and a tongue; nor a as body, and lips, walking does it assign Him legs. The objectionsare as puerile Our as they are shameless. space will not allow us to refute them in detail. to IngersoU may Any answer
be consulted.
by the fact that the fable of Osiris,with all its revolting tures, feawith admiring be lauded to the skies; and can and sacred of a brother by a sympathy, this murder succession be explainedas the mere of the brother can of the year, of the varied phases of beautiful seasons The bounteous drunkenness and and nature. orgies the wantonof Bacchus ness ; the adulteries of Jupiterand of Venus; Saturn children; devouring his own and be cloaked and beautified by the explanations can of- the sympathizers of the pagan interpretations Jehovah, who mysteries; but the ancient Hebrew after having by his threats brought it spares Nineveh stand the obloquy of Brother Pike, to repentance, must because Jonah in his wounded vanity would have preferred the destruction of the repentent cityrather than that he should be considered by the Ninevites a false
are,
How
insincere
such
attacks
is evidenced
prophet.
"
Thou
art
grieved
thou hast
for
not
the
ivy," said
nor
the made
Lord,
it to
"
for
which which
labored,
came
grow,
"
in
one
night
I spare than know
up
and
in
one
night
perished.
And
shall not
there
are more
which
hundred
not
and
to
persons,
that
how
distinguish
many
between
their
right hand
and
their
left,and
beasts?"
ISO
The esoteric
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
letter
G,
therefore, is objectionableto
for he that understands the
the
Mason;
our
Masonic
Deity
as
Jehovah.
"
the Masonic to grasp God, fails absolutely However, the letter has been unfortunately
introduced, and
As for
"
must,
least,remain.
continues
our
its reference
Geometry,"
Masonic
author,
that the
historian, says
referred the whole Operative Masons which science of Geometry to the art of building, gave occasion to embrace the to the modern English Masons under the head of whole of Freemasonry system Geometry, and hence the symbol of that science, as well as of God, was adopted for the purpose of giving Craft's degree." elevation to the Fellow sacred Indeed," he concludes, the symbol, made verse, of the Uniby its reference to the Grand Geometrician well worthy to be applied to that science was
"
"
which
has, from
the
remotest
times, been
deemed
(Encycloprndia, Masonry." p. 302.) Geometry is the becoming clearer. symbol of Masonry ; for as Masonry is the upbuilding of humanity on lines.Geometry, a science tirely enpagan will serve it admirably referred to the art of building," as symbol. Masonry is engaged on the pagan is the builder, the temple of humanity; the Mason geometrician Deity is the Grand Builder ; ; the Masonic Architect of the Grand the Universe; the Grand masonry, Geometrician; the Algabil. (Encyclopcediaof Freep. 56). For in the sees Masonry," says Dr. Mackey, dtvinum,' Supreme God that it worships,not a numen divine power moderator a rerum a a omnium/ ; nor controller of all things,as the old philosophersdesignated
with synonymous Our ideas are
"
"
"
'
'
him, but
Grand
Architect
of
the
Universe.
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
151
The of
Masonic
as
the
Mighty
countless
Builder worlds
this terrestrial
it.
globe, and
He
is not
that surround
entium
(Being of
which
beings),or
ancient
titles with
invested
have whom is
simply
Architect
as
the
"
a/oxos T"KTmv,
all workmen
also; and
hence
our
worship."
"
And,
in of
footnote
The
Freemason."
kind
therefore, from
that you have
your
ever
mind,
had
reader,
of God,
for, according
and conceive Masonry they are all erroneous; Him Builder, the Supermerely as the Master intendent and of the work, for he is nothing more, realize how free you You are presently become. with and Him, builder, a mason, a through Him but you His the directed by Him; not are creature,
work
this
nature
of His idea
are
hands
; and
law of
is shattered; the
upon moral
realize, more more, you broken that bound the ties are to the past? how you broken are irremediably? You completely? broken
broken.
Do
becoming
But
Fr^^mason;
will tell Great
us
a more
who this
trician, Geomeus
Builder?
the
enter
more
intimatelyinto
Bro. will
God?
McClenachan,
continuator
supply us with the needed light. Here G. O. D. The is the word spelledMasonically. It is a singularcoincidence," initials of Gomer, Oz, Dabar." and he continues. worthy of thought, of Deity that the letters composing the English name Mackey,
" "
"
should
be
the initials of
the Hebrew
words
wisdom,
152
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
and strength,
beauty,
the of
the
three
or great pillars,
phorical metato
a
of
Masonry.
reason
They
can
'
seem
only
the
east
that
'
reconcile
its in
son Ma-
the
use
initial of
seems
in
suspension
Delta. The
in the
the
to
Lodge
be
more
incident
cident." ac-
{Encyclopcsdia, p. 957.) Without than pugnance doing more adverting to the reof Brother McClenachan to using the word God in reference to the Masonic Deity, a repugnance the which is overcome only by finding in the word initials of the columns which metaphorically or pillars startled to find ourhasten selves support Masonry, we on, back upon the Masonic so lars pilsuddenly thrown in our last whose have seen we phallicsignificance The monolith, or circular pillar, standing chapter. mind to the ancient alone," says Dr. Mackey, was of the Phallus, the symbol of the a representation creative and generative energy it is in of Deity, and these Phallic pillars that we to find the true are origin of pillar worship, which was only one form of Phallic predominant of all the cults to worship, the most addicted." which the ancients were (Encydopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 583). It is true that worship is proportioned to the Deity worshiped, and that phallicworship would logically lead us to deduce should a correspondingDeity ; but we have such a deduction, wishing,as hesitated to make do to assert we nothing but what we clearlyprove,
"
"
did not
the
Bro.
introduce the
us
to
God
under
symbol
what
Lodge.
has will
more
But
Brother
McClenachan
told
us
with
firm. con-
sufficient
clearness, Bro.
Mackey
than
154 tionable
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
orthodoxy, if we view it in the spiritual in which its first propounders must sense intended it to be presented to the have necessarily mind, and not in the gross, sensual meaning in which it was For, taking the word subsequentlyreceived. in its ordinary and colloquial as signification sex, not ganization, denoting the indication of a particularphysicalorbut in that purelyphilosophical which one alone can be used in such connection, and which simply the mere manifestation it is not of a power, signifies that the Supreme to be denied Being must possess in himself, and in himself alone, both a generativeand This idea, which a was so prolific extensively power. the nations of antiquity, has also prevalent among been traced in the tetragrammaton, of Jeor name hovah, with singularingenuity, by Lanci ; and, what is almost he has, by this discovery, equally interesting, been what in all probenabled to demonstrate ability, was, the true pronunciation of the word." (5"y"bolism,p. 1 86.) This the score of on theory is unobjectionable orthodoxy," he says. Of what orthodoxy does he Of Catholic orthodoxy? Of Christian speak? we ask. jectionab orthodoxy? In the light of both, it is most obfor it is a theory which, as he himself be its originalmeaning what it may admits, was, have been, subsequentlyreceived in a gross, sensual done once, be done again. was meaning. What may
on
the
score
of
"
Will
our
author
must
tell
us
what
is to
prevent
it?
And
why,
word
pray,
sex
in
its first
Its later votaries did not do so power ? is admitted by himself why, then, must
"
the the
fact
inal origauthor
none.
propounders have
asserts
done
otherwise?
Proof he
The
M'hat
demands
proof.
has
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
155
He
and
says
so:
that
one,
is all.
Another
from
meaning,
what
was
sensual
different
of the
to
he
philosophicmeaning
those
the
word,
actually, by
later false which what is
initiated into
to
sex as
system,
attributed, in
It is therefore is
"
times,
alone
referred
Deity.
of power
that the
can
sense philosophic
the And
one
be
used
in such
connection."
the
to
power
cover a
of
God?
Philosophy, like
of sins. much
to to
"
multitude
osophic Phil-
is
may
"
which
much
he-she," if
you
wish
merely
express
the tributes sunlight conspiritualomnipotence? Because and to the energies both prolific generative in nature, do -you become philosophic by making it Instead "he-she" of being philosophic, a power? you become Not for the
to
ridiculous. make
this
we
shall leave
covery following chapter the discussion of the dising and importance meritof Lanzi, its brilliancy shall return for the moWe ment treatment. special to study the objectof Geometry, Ritualist, to our
to
of Masonry;
discover,
of
so
far
as
in
us
we
in this lies,
are
first,this noblest
for
"
sciences, where
noblest
of
to
look
hermaphrodite Masonic
God.
the
Geometry,
on
is sciences,
basis
which
superstructure of
erected.
By geometry we through her various concealed recesses. By it we may and the goodness of the wisdom,
of the
Great
Artificer
tions proporwe
Universe, and
view
that connect
this vast
with
may
156
discover
and
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
how
the
planetsmove
their various
return
orbits,
demonstrate
for the which
account
of the seasons,
season
are
of
scenes
each
to displays
eye.
Numberless the
same
worlds
around
by
vast
Divine and
are
Artist, which
all conducted
roll
through
the
same
expanse, law of A
by
Nature.
of her
of Nature, and the observation survey beautiful proportions, first determined to man the Divine gave
"
imitate This
and
every
order. useful
rise to
art."
95, 96.)
mystic
word
the
object of
the
Thus we are Masonry is Nature. back again to the Nature teries, worship of the Ancient Mysto which Masonry, has sent us already for an explanation of its symbolic doctrines. By Masonry, shall trace for Geometry is Masonry, we Nature to its secret
recesses,
revere
discover the
the
supports
of
the
sonic Ma-
tate unerring law of Nature, imiNature ture by building societyon its plan. In Nafind the bi-sexual Deity of Masonry. must we The Sacred Drama," says Bro. a mysteries were Pike {Morals and Dogma, p. 64), "exhibiting some of nature's legend significant changes, of the visible the Divinityis revealed, and whose universe in which import was, in many respects, as open to the Pagan
Lodge,
"
as
to
the
Christian.
Nature Revelation
is the
great Teacher
of
man;
for it is the
of God."
"Beautifully,"he
great
clear
wide
chaos
says again (p. 715), "above of human shines the errors, human
the
calm
lightof
as
natural
God
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
15;
too.
wise, just,loving,and
around
perfectly holy
every way Material years the
stretches Bible
of
off
Universe,
is with its
Great
God.
of
nature
Testament,
truths under
millions
our
our
old, thick
Human
eternal
everlasting
is the
glories over
New
a
"
. .
.
heads;
from page
as
and
Nature
Testament
new
the
day
vealing re-
Time
the
leaves."
Everything is a thought of the Infinite God. Nature is his Prose, and man his Poetry." if you Hence wish, call Nature, God, or you may, The word is of no God, Nature. account, provided
that you
" "
what
Bro.
Pike
calls the
of Qualities There is
a
is
mere
formal
Atheism,"
not
he
in
says,
"
which
man
denial of God
is
no
in terms, but
reality.
that is
says, There
God;
never
that
is,no
God
but always originated, of existence, and Had who Was Been, who is the cause and the Providence of the Universe; and is the Mind the order, beauty, and so harmony of the world of and mind do not indicate any plan or purpose matter of Deity. But, he says, Nature, meaning by that the of sum-total existence, that is powerful, whole is self-originated, or active, wise and good; Nature of its own and had istence, exbeen, the cause always was
or self-originated,
" "
that
the
mind There
of the Universe
is
and
the
Providence
obviously a plan and purpose brought whereby order, beauty and harmony are of about; but all that is the plan and purpose nature." Pike's.) (Italics of The idea of anything that is the absolute cause will be new to my the total producer of itself, itself, is anythis apparent atheist,who Would readers.
of itself.
158 thing
could the
"
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
but
act
sound it
before
cause
cases," continues
is
are mere
Pike,
not
"
denial
only
formal
real.
ities qualreal;
real
admitted, and
affirmed
to not
be
and of
it is these
change
of
name
call the
possessor The
qualities,Nature
and
God.
call such question is, whether Qualities exist, as we shall and God; we not, by what particular name call the sum designate the Qualities. One man may total of these Qualities, a Nature; another. Heaven; third, Universe; a fourth. Matter; a fifth, Spirit; a what he sixth, God, Theos, Zeus, Alfadir, Allah or pleases. All admit the existence of the Being, Power The is of the name Ens, thus diversely named. or smallest Dogma, consequence." {Morals and pp. 643, 644. Italics Pike's.) What
sort
of
God
we
shall much
have
more
when
when
matter
we
and
we
sum-total
of
no qualities,
with
large a Q we spellthe word, we leave our readers to is of of sex in such a God imagine. The spirituality call him slight importance, indeed, since you may God call Him call him call him matter or or spirit; is Satan, Jupiter, Venus, Apollo, Nature; the name all one Admit the qualito the enlightened Mason. ties about the name. mit Adof a thing and do not care the qualities of water and call it fire,or stone, or ference, difno poison, or balloon, or railway train; it makes is of the the name slightestconsequence. of scamp, and murderer, and libertine. Admit the qualities call this sum-totai, is the By what name you
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
159
merest
bagatelle, whether
or
it
or even
be
Washington,
of the
or
Homer,
The
Albert
Pike,
and one's
Christ.
absurdity
takes
as
shallowness
breath.
as
sophism
guage lanbeen
or was
almost
away it is,with
language
no
have
might
be.
There
is
question
we a
water
it could in which
water
have
case
received
the
and fire,
assert
rectly cor-
should
now
burned For
house,
we
we
and
now now
that
fire
quenched
would
would be
the
thirst.
what what
called
fire; and
water.
fire,
pended dener, man-
be called
on
The
of affixing
the
the
In like been
name
George
Homer,
words
or
Washington
Pike,
or
could
have other
called
Albert
affectinghis
have
without
when
it is different
assigned to designate particular Words are no things or particularpersons. longer this definite interchangeable at will, but express this definite other. And if thing, and no person, Pike was asserted that Albert we a mean a hypocrite, liar, a foul-mouthed blasphemer, the lowest of the
low,
with
our
apology
scorn,
to
the if
we
would
we
be indeed
merited
in Bro.
Pike
the
the
model
Mason;
of
the thus
scholar, and
existence
the
of
his
smallest distinct
of
ideas,
not
verified
in
Christ.
Christ
that individuality
nor
is not
nor
Mahomet,
Confucius,
Buddha, Nature,
Nature,
of
terial, ma-
sexual
even
mind
you
i6o
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
"
to
it what
you
call the
of God," Qualities
why
not
call
the wisdom
of
the ancients
"
Soul
"
of the Universe."
He
is," says
STATIONARY
[ Earois
To
that always is [ To Ov Magus, the ONE from On] of Plato, as contradistinguished flux and
"
the perpetual
And,
as
the the
Soul, becomes
visible in Words,
so
did
God, springing up within Himself, tal immortal conceived, immoras Himself, when once because in Himself, utter Itself in the Word, before, and its manifestation and mode of communication, thus create the Material, Mental, Spiritual Universe,
Thought
of
"
never
began
to exist."
FOR
THE
THOUGHT
. . .
OF The
GOD
LIVES
AND
IS
IMMORTAL.
etc.,
law
the and
...
alphabet
informs
it communicates of
itself to
men
God,
' "
the Soul
'
most
trulydid
men.
The
Word
become
dwell
"
among
God,
the unknown
Pater Ayvwo-Tos [IIoTiyp Agnostos] known to us only by His Attributes; the Absolute I Am. The Thought of God [Ewota Ennoia] and the Word [Aoyos. Logos] Manifestation and expression of the Thought; Behold the TRUE MASONIC the Universal TRINITY; Soul, The THOUGHT in the Soul, the WORD or Thought IN of a Trinitarian ONE, expressed; the THREE Ecossais." ics {Morals and Dogma, pp. 574, 575. Italand capital letters are Pike's.)
.
62
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
and
not
interfere
in
the
squabble.
shall
tolerate
of your
fancy, your
accept
This my is the
provided only that you philosophy, Trinity of Persons. Unity of God, my Masonic True Trinity;all others, though
lack of false.
not
tolerated, are
But
"
why
of
call
Nature,
when venerable and the p. Nature
"
God,"
our
and ancient
God,
the
Soul
the
Universe,"
our
brother,
Pythagoras,
"
and
ists,considered
In the and view
God of
Kabalah,"
Pike,
verse Uni-
(Morals
were
Dogma,
says view of
765),
P)^hagoras, God in the of Pythagoras was One, a single continuous substance, whose through all parts extend equalit the Universe, without separation, difference or inlike the soul in the human body "... World Universe thus compared to man The or was : the Principleof Life that moves it, to that which
too
" "
So
moves
man:
the
Soul
of
the
World
man a
to
that
of
man. or
Therefore little
Pythagoras
as
called
microcosm,
possessing in miniature all the qualities found in a large scale in the Universe, by his and ture; reason intelligence partaking of the Divine Naand by his faculty of changing ailments into other self, substances, of growing and reproducing himThus he made partaking of Elementary Nature. the Universe a Being, like man great intelligent immense what has in an Deity, having in itself, man and besides himself, movement, life,and intelligence, has not; and, a man perpetuity of existence which and life, as having in itself perpetuityof movement therefore the Supreme Cause of All."
world,
"
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
163
Soul does
"
Everywhere
in the
not,
view
in the
Pythagoras,
manner." As
act
everywhere
ture Na-
equallynor
was
Universal
divinityof Pythagoras, so was Man the lesser divinity; all for man had in miniature that the greater possessed. He in the participated Divine he Nature just as participated in the Elementary Nature. Hence this nature is free, as Bardesan, the Syrian
great
"
the
of the Laws
of
Countries, says,
their bodies,
in the
things belonging to
in the like animals, and they maintain their nature things that belong to their minds, they do that which they wish, as being free and with power, and as the likeness of God.' (Morals and Dogma, p. 857). Behold the Free-Builder, the Free-Mason, in the world of Bro. Pythagoras. The body belonging to
"
animal
creation
must
follow
and
Nature; impelled by the Deity, the Soul of Universal initiation and freed from the mind purified by Masonic of moral the shackles creed, ignorance and religious in the image of do as it pleases, being thus may
"
God."
Hence,
"
naturally,God
God
It of
is identified
with
Reason. of
To
believe,"says Bro.
in the
Pike,
"
God,
the
and
Reason,
is to
Atheism made
possible im-
is the
Idolaters
who
Atheists."
"
It
Analogy gives the Sage all the forces the is the key of the Grand Arcanum,
of The
of Nature.
root
of the
Tree
"
and Reason
Evil."
IS
not
by
means we
of Itself. suppose
IS, and
because
it.
It
is
where
noth-
64
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
It. Reason possibly exist without ing could Law, the Rule of all Liberty,and the Necessity, of Reason. every Initiatrve. If
is
rection di-
God
IS, HE
IS
by
side Deity, outconception of an Absolute of, or independent of, Reason, is the Idol of Black Magic, the Phantom of the Demon." {Morals and Dogma, p. 737). Without wasting time on the absurdities of this where especiallythat of placing Reason passage, nothing exists," the having something where there is nothing; we shall hasten prepared as we now on, sonry for the last and are culminating lesson of Freemaconcluding the 861 pages of Bro. Pike's Morals and Dogma of Freemasonry. We shall quote the passage in full,and seek lightin approved sources. verse Pike has been speaking of the harmony of the Unithe resultant of various flicting as opposite and conforces in the Deity of Infinite Wisdom and
The
"
"
Infinite
"
Power, etc.,etc.,
"
and
concludes:
and re-action of each of that
From
the of
mutual
action and
these which
pairs
the and
opposites
forms the
contraries
results
with them
Sages
Osiris
Triangle,to all the Ancient expressivesymbol of the Deity: as from of Light and Isis, Har-oeri, the Master
Word."
Pike of the any and e. g. Infinite Wisdom their union will produce a is this: of Bro.
Life, and
The
the Creative
idea
Take
pairs of
Infinite third
contraries
named,
Power;
these
by
with them. being,which will thus form a trinity This trinity three, may be symbolized by a triangle or three-sided figure,as Osiris, Isis and or Har-oeri, their offspring, angle for, by the ancients, the triwere; considered the symbol of Deity. Thus was as enlightenedlet us listen to his teaching.
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
165
"At
the
angles
of
one
three columns
of
that support
the
Universe, Wisdom,
he says, and triangle, supports the Universe; so may Deity, also, be represented the three pillars of the Lodge, Wisdom, by Strength and Beauty, arranged in a triangle as have the supports for the Lodge, since, as we seen, In which angle triLodge itself is a symbol of the world.
of
columns,
our
reader
borne
to the G. O. D., Gomer, Oz, Dabar, irresistibly of McClenachan, the sexual meaning of which our chapter has already exposed. The fact that the term G. O. D. could be used as the representativeof the of Nature, was the procreativeand prolific powers that the Brother could imagine, why the only reason tolerated in Masonry. Bro. Mackey, too, word was surprised us by making the Deity in the theologies of all ancient peoples bi-sexual, and promising to that Jehovah was show us no exception to the rule. What wonder, then, that here, at last, after having followed Bro. should Pike so patiently, find him we columns or leading us back to the same phallic pillars of the Lodge, to reveal to us in their shadow, in his Prince of the Royal parting instruction to the Sublime of the Scottish Rite, the unity of Secret, the 32 and God, the Divinity of Man! man found of these symbols," he says, the One on Tracing-Board of the Apprentice's degree, teaches It is the right-angled this last lesson of Freemasonry. ual Triangle,representingman, as a union of the spiritThe and material, of the divine and human. of the base measured by the number 3, the number
"
" "
back
i66
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
Triangle,represents
perpendicular measured
of the
the
the
Divine;
the
4, the
number
Square, represents the Earth, the Material and the Human; and the hypothenuse, measured by 5, which is produced by the union represents that nature the Soul and the Body; of the Divine and Human, the squares, 9 and 16, of the base and perpendicular, added together, producing 25, the square root whereof of the hypothenuse." is S, the measure And in each triangle of Perfection," he adds, as
" "
one
is three of
a
and
three nature;
are
one,
so
man
though
of
are success
double
and
he
attains
in
the two natures being only when his life is a him in just equilibrium; and are only when it too is a harmony, and beautiful, of God and the Universe."
"
his
Such, my
of
a
Brother," he
Master makes Empire
est.celare
concludes,
such the
is the
true
True Royal
Word
Mason;
of true
and possible,
shall at
length make
Masonic
Brotherhood.
Verbum.
Amen."
Pike's.)
we
therefore
secret
recesses
have and
followed
found the
Nature
divinityof
Geometry and have found the rightthe truth that the which angled triangle, expresses of the side subtending the right angle, is equal square
We have
to
studied
the
sum
of the We
are
of the base and the perpensquares dicular. told that the base represents the the
"
Divine;
noblest studied
the
man,
the of
us
of
sciences," the
able masters,
Divine has
Masonry,
to
under
the
sexual, bithe
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
167
the
columns
of
the
Lodge,
reallythe
we
the
point within
in man?
circle,
is the
etc., etc.
But
what
Can
is
divine
another
what
human? base
and
find
perpendicularwhich
nearer
doctrine have
been
the
old
pagan
in whose and taught to revere, symbols found have ever the true Masonic enlightenedMasons doctrine? Fortunately for us, Bro. Mackey explains this same right-angledtrianglewhich represents the
union
of of
the the
divine
and
human
in
man;
the
angle tri-
and
Har-oeri, of
"
Bro.
"
Pike.
The
he tells us, is another triangle," right-angled is deserving form of this figure [the triangle], which the Egyptians, it was of attention. Among the symbol of universal nature, the base representing the perpendicular, Isis, Osiris, or the male principle; and the hypothenuse, Horus, the female principle; or their son, or the product of the male and female principle." (Encyclopedia, pp. 829, 830.) received This by symbol," he continues, was journ Pythagoras from the Egyptians, during his long so"
"
in that
country, and
it
of the
two
with
it he also learned
that the
the
sum
peculiarproperty
of the squares of the square
namely possessed,
shorter
"
by
the
Horus"
Here
reduces formula.
equal to the expressed symbolically longest side that the product of Osiris and Isis is formula (the Har-oeri of Bro. Pike). (Ibid.) Bro. Mackey then we at length pause. may Pike to the old phallic the solution of Bro.
sides is The
divine
in
man,
the
the human, is principle generative ; the perpendicular, the female productive principle ; the result of the union
68
THE
GOD
OF
FREEMASONRY
sonry, Ma-
or
the
child, the
in few
temple
words
and
God
of
summarize We
the
substance
of
sured as-
chapter.
as
we
were,
own
Masonry,
its
own
divine and
truth found
"
its the
deity.
We
entered
the
Lodge
symbol G, as distinctive of Masonry as the G. O. D., the phallic is of Catholicity. It meant cross of the Lodge, and Geometry, the theology of pillars told that Deity in Masonry was We were Masonry.
the
Builder, the
under been had
Architect whom
we
of
the
too
Universe, the
were
perintenden su-
builders the
and of
having
builder in which
previously informed
been taken
was
that pagan in
to
us
idea
from
the
Deity
of
worshiped
was
faculties of
as
Man,
it
evident
none
the
our
Lodge
readers
could
be
other
than
Still,
might have doubted our deduction, we It bade for fuller instruction. us went to Masonry study Geometry, and Geometry bade us study Nature. that Nature We have found We have done so. might
be called God. That We That the Universe
were was an
emanation
from ideas
God.
of God.
creatures
the that
actual, existent
ancient That sages
our
discovered
Soul of the
the
called brother
of it.
God
the
Universe. and
a
Pythagoras
a were
God, making
of
our
Nature We
compendium
were
taught by
God and God
the
Kabbalists,
Nature
were
trusted and
were
so
theologians,that
hence that
and
One;
We
God
to
humanity
identified and
One.
introduced
God in the
was
with
Reason;
Until the last
or
that
Reason,
Reason,
of Man is
God.
Masonry,
finally, Royal
in the
clearlytaught
CHAPTER
IX
American
Freemasonry
and
the
Kabbalistic
Jehovah
From what of
Albert
to
Pike the
has
name
told of
us
of
"
the the
ference indifname
Masonry
the
God,
"
being
Dogma,
of
p.
smallest
we
consequence
(Morals
the Craft
and
was
664),
might
in the
imagine
matter.
that
utterly
certain in
our
indifferent
sense sense.
And,
a
indeed,
sense,
in
it is ; but As it be
to
only
the
in
name
certain
that
is,
our or
which
or
is
or
given
Zeus,
God,
Osiris for
a name
whether
or
Buddha,
it is of the
true
one
Jupiter,
utmost
any God of
other,
is
not
the
unimportance Deity;
is
as
;
as
our
Masonic
and,
false Bro.
Deity, Mackey
should
appellation consequently
taken be O. D.
"
good
as
another.
is be
regretful
in
that
;
G,
and
as
symbol,
to
represent
Jehovah
Bro.
McClenachan
would if G.
inconsolable
did
not
seem
calling
the
Masonic
Deity
the of East
God,
the
reason
'
express
to
a
phallic pillars of
almost the in
use
Lodge.
that G
'
They
present
to
only
the of
can
reconcile
Mason
initial
the
in in
its
conspicuous
of the
suspension
*
the
Lodge
When
place
as
Delta."
as
Masonry, Quite
of Masonic the
therefore,
contrary.
God
is
is not
indifferent
not
it the
seems. name
it comes,
to true
God,
for
falsehood, apparent
out
but
to
the
name
of
Deity,
in
indifference
season,
is brushed
aside; and,
1
season
of
persistentlyand
Vide,
supra,
p.
152.
170
THE
KABBALISTIC
its
JEHOVAH
press
171
in the
it exhorts untiringly,
adepts to
the Truth
forward
search
will
essence
of
the
to
true
Word,
Divine
God. the
name
"
of the
Deity
nature
which and
reveal
them
"The
after
Word,"
says
Dr.
Mackey
lectual (Symbolism, p. 304), "is an epitome of the inteland religious of the Order, from the progress tudes period when, by the dispersionat Babel, the multienshrouded in the profundity of a moral were darkness where truth was guished. apparently forever extin-
The
nature
was
true
name
of
; the
no now
God
was
lost; his
lessons
true
not
understood Noah
were were
divine
imparted
by
our
father
ancient
traditions
were
symbols
the of the
sun
perverted.
of and
Truth the
buried
beneath
rubbish
Sabaism,
stars
and
idolatrous
had God."
taken
the
placeof
worship of
"
The
search
the Word
is
a
"
to
find divine
Truth
"
this and
this
only
Mason's
work,
and
the
WORD
(Symbolism, p. 309.) author in is "Jehovah," our That this Word proves his Encyclopcsdia, Jehovah is," he pp. 376-381. of Masonry by far words of all the significant says, the most important. Reghellini very properly calls it In the basis of our dogma and of our mysteries.'
" "
'
is his reward."
"
"
Hebrew,"
n"nt,
he
hence
continues,
and
"
it consists
of
four
letters,
or
a
and
is called the
Tetragrammaton,
was
four-
lettered name;
as
because.it
to
forbidden
to
Jew,
called
it is to
Mason,
or
pronounce
it,it is
"
also
the Ineffable
"
Unpronounceable name." in the Hebrew In Masonry," he continues, as of the Word, the appellations under it was Mysteries, the True Word, or the Lost Word, the symbol of the
172
THE
KAEBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
or
Truth,
the
true
nature
of
reader
nature
this word
"
word
is
the
basis
lightupon Masonic tached Deity, the meaning atby Masonry will give us, for the of Masonic dogma and Masonic
mysteries." sonic MaYet in spite of its paramount importance,some in this country and the Lodges of jurisdictions to Jehovah as England have preferred other words
of the dogma and as a summary Divine Truth of Masonry ; but even this preference will in our aid us much us more study, for it will show and more clearly the trend of Masonic thought and of Masonic basis
theory. there is perhaps Although," says Dr. Mackey, no point in the esoteric system of Masonry more is clearlyestablished than that the Tetragrammaton
" "
the
true
omnific
have
been
mitted, ad-
by which,
that word has
this country,
been
changed
names
others, which
of
name
the of
sublime God.
in other
true
Chapter of the United States adopted a regulation innovation of the of these disapproving tory explanawords, and restoringthe Tetragrammaton; but of what this declaration might be called a truism in tant Masonry, has been met with open oppositionor relucin some obedience places." (Ibid., p. 380.)
Grand Our three readers words of dear
to
are
doubtless
curious
to
know
as
what
have
been and
adopted by Masonry
what that
atory explanare so
Jehovah;
word
or
words
Masonic
hearts
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
173
ing Jehovah, even in spiteof the truisms of the Craft and the authority of the General Grand Chapter. They are Jah, the sun-god of the Syrians; On, the reputed sun-god of the Egyptians; and Bel or Baal, the fire-godof the Chaldeans, whose idolatrous ship worwas so grievouslypunished by Jehovah. "Bel," says Dr. Mackey, {Encyclopcedia, p. 112), is the contracted form of Baal, and was worshiped by the Babylonians as their chief deity. The Greeks
"
and
so
considered
and
translated
the
word
Jupiter. It has with Jah and On, been into the Royal Arch introduced system, as a representative of the Tetragrammaton, which it and the accompanying sometimes words have been ignorantly made Grand to displace. At the session of the General was Chapter of the United States, in 1871, this error declared corrected, and while the Tetragrammaton was by
to
be
the
true
omnific
word,
the
other
three
"
were
permitted to be retained as merely explanatory ; and Belenus, the Baal of the tures, Scrippresentlyhe adds, and Apollo,the god identified with Mithras was
"
of the sun."
able unmistakand notwithstanding the explicit declaration of the founder of the English Royal Arch," says Dr. Mackey again, {Encyclopcedia, p. 380), that the Tetragrammaton is the omnific word, the present system in England has rejected it, and substituted in its place three other words, the second is wholly unmeaning." of which in English Let those who see nothing objectionable little on Dr. American and a Masonry, meditate Mackey's revelations concerning the substitution of Baal for Jehovah as the word explanatoryof Deity in when But Jehovah is picturedas Bro. Masonry.
Yet,
"
"
174
Pike
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
not
Him, pictures
of G. O. D.
we
should
be
astonished
that
conscience
fightsshy
let
us
of the
word, just as
But
return
to Dr.
"
Mackey.
other it
From
that Webb
recognizedthe
words
some
Jehovah, and
since been
not
which Grand
substituted
by
Chapters
which, it
used by Webb as originally merely of the Divine nature of the explanatoryor declaratory other and principal word. And this is in accordance with one of the traditions of the degree, that they were placedon the substitute ark around the real word, as a key to explain its signification." {Encyclopaedia, pp. 380, 381.) To call anything else but this four-lettered name," he adds, omnific word and allan an all-creating either in Masonry or in Hebrew performing word symbolism, whence Masonry derived it,is to oppose
is
probable, were
"
"
"
"
of the
to
Gnostics, and
scholar battle
more
Hebrew the
from
Gesenius.
secure
of every To fight It
against such
of boldness Grand
is to
defeat. And
hence
General
Chapter
the the has
States has
word York
ever
Jehovah
and existed.
Tetragrammaton word." {Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 381). We rest satisfied, then, that Jehovah is the may and that Reghellini he true Word, was right when
made it the You the made basis of Masonic what had of doctrine idea the and
Rite
ies. mysterof
will understand
founders when
degrees
Jehovah,
the
they reputed
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
175
Egyptian sun-god
the
"
; and
explanations
of
the
name.
You
name,
realize the
affectionate
reverence
for
the
brethren and their American by English Masons who have rejectedit,and who have substituted Baal in its place as the name of Deity! And, finally, you will these sympathize with ignorant and erring brethren in their crushing defeat, since the most proved apof Masonic sources theology,the Talmudists, the
Kabbalists, and
them.
the
Gnostics
is the No.
are
unit The
in
demning con-
Jehovah
Christians? be revealed
word.
Hebrew Kabbal-
It is the
by
will
of
Dr.
Mackey,
their
and
Lanzi,
Bro.
They
dread
show
ignorant
Jehovah is baseless, and further on the Deity of Masonry. us enlighten I have Elsewhere," says Dr. Mackey, fully the alluded the to prevailing sentiment among bi-sexual, or Ancients, that the Supreme Deity was of his being hermaphrodite, including in the essence female the generative and and the male principles, ..." of nature." They all taught prolific powers
"
"
brethren
that and
God,
then
the
Creator,
was
both
male
and
female
"
having stated that sex was to be understood of power, he concludes This in its philosophic : sense all so was extensivelyprevalent among idea, which has also been traced in the the nations of antiquity, of Jehovah, with singular Tetragrammaton or name esting, by Lanci ; and what is almost equally interingenuity been enabled onstrate to demhe has, by this discovery, the true pronunin all probability, what was, ciation of the word." (Symbolism, pp. 185, 186.) Dr. We shall therefore Mackey and accompany afterwards in their great discovery,and deal Lanzi
"
176
with the
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
demonstration.
us
value teaches
of
their
It deal
is what
Masonry
foundations
may
that
interests
; if
we
with
the who
of its doctrine, it is
some
merely
to
for those
need
assistance the
duly
says
appreciate them.
"
Therefore,
"
to
demonstration. Dr.
The
Mackey,
"
the
Tet-
for it is known hamphorash yod, by all these appellations consists of four letters, ." heh, vau, and heh, forming the word nin' Of these letters, the first, yod, is equivalentto the English i, pronounced as e in machine. letter heh is an and fourth The second aspirate of the English h. and has here the sound
ragrammaton,
"
"
"
"
And
the
third
letter
vau
has
the
sound
of
open
0."
"
I, H, O, H, as the reading these four letters, Hebrew from requires, right to left,we have the word which is really mri', equivalentin English to IH-OH, well come, to the pronunciation as we withstandi notas near can Now,
it forms the word is said the
to
none
of the been
seven
ways
at
in which different
have
pronounced
goes there
on
times
"
word
to
no
"
say,
the
is
such
names
word
were
in Hebrew
ihoh;
and
as
of something, it is but fair to conclude significative the originalpronunciation,and that this was not we which look for another will give a meaning to must the word.
"
Now
Lanci
proceeds to
follows
a :
"
the
discovery of
this true
pronunciation,as
"
In
a
the
Cabala,
from
word
hidden
178
exclaimed
"I
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
of his heart
"
in found
the
transports
Eureka,"
covered he dis(Ritualist, p. 130), when that Deity could be representedby the rightOsiris and in which Isis,the Sun and angled triangle and and Human, Earth, the Divine Nature, Heaven in like by their union begot Horus, Har-oeri, man ; so discovr Bro. Mackey in the throes of the new manner I have found to a similar Eureka, ery, givesutterance he is male and is in the image of God; how man
have
it"
"
female; for,
were
he
not
such, he could
not
be
in the
image
Here,
of
as
the
Kabbalistic
Jehovah
"
"
the
HE-SHE."
is the basis of Masonic Reghellinisays, here is the nature mysteries dogma and Masonic ; and the essence of Masonry. of the God realize the desperate efiforts made But when to we wring this bi-sexual, this hermaphroditic meaning, out of the word and more Jehovah, we shall realize more of this sensual the importance to Masonry meaning. It is the veriest humbug to speak of the spiritual significat of sex the as applied to this Deity, when of God is twisted and distorted to bring Jehovah name on a sex represented as real and as material par with
"
as
it is with
to
us.
It is
to
trust
too
much
we
to
are
our
ity credulat
speak
time
of
spiritual sex,
man
when
not
told
the of
same
that if he
would
not
be
in the and
image
would the
Jehovah,
and
were
male physically
female;
be
that, without
such
us,
distinction. Genesis
Let unintelligible.
however,
pass
on
to
ment. argu-
place, therefore, both Lanci and our author are guiltyof wilful deceptionwhen they make the yod of Jehovah, the vowel I, and the Vav, the vowel that both of these letters are 0; for they know
In
consonants
the
first
and
not
vowels.
And
this
we
are
told
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
himself
179
plainlyand
"
The
in his Encycloped
"
consists
were
of
consonants.
supplied by
made of each the he
was,
reading, he
the
correct
acquainted with
word
; and
possess
not
this knowledge,
letters of
before
course,
unable
Every
vocal
Hebrew,
sounds in with the
however,
which different
practice
were same manner
nounced pro-
words,
in
the
as a
the that
different sounds
knt is
of
pronounced
name
knight."
of God
incommunicable
letters,Yod,
to
He, Vau,
in
and
He,
equivalent in English
is evident be that these
the
combination
four
at
vowels In other
Hebrew. the
known
to
Jew, because
that continuallypronounced, just as we know Mr. stands for Mister, because hear this we continually combination of God, of so pronounced. But the name these four letters are which never symbols, was nounced, proAdonai but another word [Lord] substituted for truth it."
words
Here,
the and
therefore, kind
matter.
reader, you
have four Doctor
have
the
of
You
as
consonants,
JHVH,
Mr. There
us.
not
IH-OH,
for
both
Mackey
and
Lanci
need
their
no
wonderful word in
as
no
transformation.
is,in Hebrew,
True
; we
answer
such
; but
Ih-oh you
represents
the
Hebrew
consonants;
and
are
relying entirely
i8o
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
their bad
on
the
ignorance of
you
to
when know OH
to
make be
faith,
start
no
by
versal, re-
He-She second
end
with.
In
the
is the Kabbalistic
of language place,on what principle backwards of reading words practice be found, we exceptionalcases may
was
Able how
ere
saw
ways;
but
many
no
sentences
exceptionalcases
and
rule is deducible.
and
pal
and
true
of the letters you have rat ; change the position ? Alp will make Are they the same you have art. and cism mystilap. Oh, a pal has a lap. Sublime !
so
Part forth.
will
And
give us
what
trap and
is true Pike of
rapt
; and
so
forth,
of all
languages.
asserts
was,
Bro.
p.
699),
of
that
"the
reversal
words But
indeed, ancientlycommon
woefully to prove so general an assertion. Exceptional cases, we admit; the rule we that Jehovah is an exceptionalcase. deny. Prove Thirdly,Dr. Mackey himself derives the word from
the
he fails
verb'^'U, to he,
as
do
says,
all Hebrew
"
scholars.
from the
ineffable
name,"
verb
mn,
he
is derived
hayah,
to
he, and
combining, as
the present, past and future does, in its formation of the verb, is considered as significations designating God in his immutable and eternal
existence."
clopaedia {Ency-
of Freemasonry, p. 376). ho and not are hi; Lastly, the Hebrew pronouns the final aleph is not graphical orthobut hua, hia, in which (Brown's Dictionary merely, but radical." therefore, consist of of Gesenius). The pronouns,
"
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
i8i
three have
letters, not
six
as
two
; and
by reversingthem
Hua-hia
as
we
shall
not letters,
four.
reversed
will
give
aih-auh, about
near
Ho-Hi
the He-She
sonry of Ma-
is to the true
God.
windings, therefore, and through all this evident deception. Doctor Mackey and his guide, Lanci, take us, in revealingthe great Masonic contained in the word Jehovah. mystery of God's nature Change the letters;read the word backwards; make
two
Through
all these
forms the
of
the
modify
have know We made
forms
where
there
was
but behold
one;
the
not
desired what
see
you
we
shall
out
us
could made it. have not you later what Bro. Pike says the Kabbalists To
our
process of out
of it. from
introduce
theme.
never
the matter
here
would
distract
"
But may
the
Kabbalists
"
made
God
bi-sexual,"
the you Bro. of what
you
say ;
for
Bro.
Pike
expressly denies
you
sure
fact."
say?
Pike. sexual
never
you Kabbalists
understand did
not
attribute he has
characteristics
said that these
the
characteristics
denied
Jehovah is, as we have seen Bro. found clearlyprove, the Deity of Masonry. Do not conwhat With it calls the Very Deity, the two. It is the concerned. the Absolute, Masonry is not and Pater Agnostos of the Gnostics; the Unknown of modern Unknowable can philosophasters. What But let us people have to do with this? practical
; and
Jehovah Mackey so
allow
"
Bro.
Pike
to
set
forth
his
own
ideas.
Obtuse
commentators
have
said,"
Bro.
Pike
affirms
Kabalah
(Morals and Dogma, p. 765), "that the assignssexual characteristics to the Very
i82
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
for such
an
Deity.
On the
on
There
in the
is
no
warrant
or
assertion
it. is
anywhere
based
in any commentary upon doctrine of the Kabalah contrary, the whole the fundamental
Sohar
Deity
is
or
without
order
to
commence
of
to
creation, it
a
effect
vacant
space
any the
formation con-
approximatelyexpressedby all space, formless, as Light filling Himself all sides from on a point within Himself, and thus effects a quasi-vacantspace, in which only a vestigeof His Light remains ; and into this circular or sphericalspace He Emits His Emanations, portions of His Light or Nature; and to some of these, sexual' characteristics are symbolically assigned."
To these space deal and than with the
mass
the
Nature
of absurdities lines
can
crowded
into
more
accompanying
our
would
require
we
little volume
to
a
afford;
would
few
points.
The
Very
; it
tracts con-
itself;it
has
not
parts of itself.
it is unknown
name.
Existing
and
thus
Creation
even a
unknowable
Neither
the Kabbalists
we
the
Masons,
Pike and
their
have Bro.
said, anything
with
can
its nature
and tell
us
essence.
the Kabbalists
only
here
that
this
Deity
as
is
sort
of
all lightfilling
space.;
to
Brother, later
the
matter
in his
volume,
seems
look
whatever the
it was,
is
Deity of Masonry
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
that
is the
183
question;
of
ours.
is
and
Jehovah.
who
Is
he
bi-sexual?
is this
have "I
said about
obtuse is
no
commentators
concern
Moses," Bro. Pike tells us (Morals and Dogma, pp. 848, 849), "that which Is, Was and Shall forever Be. But the Very God, in His unmanifested Essence, conceived of as not yet having created and Such the as Alone, has no Name. was
doctrine declared manifested of all the Ancient in the Kabalah. in within
a
AM,
God
Sages, and
mrr
,
it is
so
of
singleact,
Himself,
to
Creation, and
and form and be
in
idea
with
the actuality,
terially ma-
whole
Universe,
As
"
be invested the
developed during
ages. God
never never
eternal
of Bro.
WAS
Pike,
has
no
he
more
THOUGHT
a
Universe
way
not
stretches Universe
Word God.
was
Thought than the Deity it is the utterance no more The duration of the Universe is but a point the infinite line of eternity; and God upon inert and uncreative that during the eternity that point. The behind Archetype of the
"
had
beginning than
the Divine
did
never
not
Mind.
and
The
BEGINNING
God
WAS
of the
And
Ineffable
is that, not
as
Very
or
Essence
Being
Existence.
For
is limitation ; and
or
defined, but
all that
is all
and
is,was,
losophers Being, said the Phithe Very Deity is not limited that may sides possibly be, beshall be." etc.. (Italics,
Pike's.)
Risum teneatis amici?
Bro. Pike
essence
has
boldly
and
istence ex-
plunged into
and
the
lo!
84
has
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
not
he
gone The
to
the
bottom,
of
them, but
of
surdity. ab-
Very Deity is, and was, and shall be; is and was of all things; and has been the possibility have seen, everywhere extended as we was, ; contracted itself ; emitted parts of itself ; and yet had neither being
nor
existence, for it
was
infinite.
"
For
Existence
"
or
!!! Bosh ! is limitation Being, said the Philosophers, In this theory, therefore, the Deity of Masonry is something limited and finite. It is Jehovah; which, of the Very Deity, for are told, is not the name we that is infinite and has
no name.
It is the
name
of the
tence; Very Deity only as manifested by Being and Exisin Bro. and Pike's Being and Existence are, philosophy,limitations. Jehovah, therefore,the God of Masonry, is identified with the emanations of Deity ; for apart from the Very Deity and his emanations, there is and can be nothing. He is the Alpha and the If Omega of Creation, the Beginning and the End. therefore discover the Alpha and the Omega we can of Creation, we shall find the object of our search. The lies plain and before path of investigation open us guides will help us in our quest. ; our Now, examining the doctrine of the Kabbalists, there is nothing more is the beevident than that man ginning of Creation and its completion. Man, therefore, is the Kabbalistic, the Masonic Jehovah; for denied Bro. while have we Mackey and Lanci the rightof torturing, by their method, the word Jehovah have into this bi-sexual meaning, we objected merely of arriving at the meaning, and not to their manner to the meaning itself. Jehovah for the Kabbalists,as for
Masons,
the
to
is
man.
For
Alpha, or
the
emanations,
or
cording ac-
Kabbala, is Adam
Kadmon
arche-
i86 Without
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
fact that
purely spiritual that Angels are an impossibility, beings thus become if it exist, chimeras, and that the Very Deity itself, and female; we hasten on to study the be male must dwelling on
the relation that Bro. exists Pike between Adam Kadmon
us
and
selves. our-
(Morals
"As
and
Man
somewhat
he
says,
"is
microcosm,
As
Kadmon of the
is
macrocosm,
taining con-
First and
Cause.
. .
.
completion of all is the beginning thereof. creation,so in the Divine Man As the inferior Adam receives all things from all,so the superiorAdam supplies all things to all. As the the latter is the principleof reflected former so light, is the terminus of is of Direct Light. The former ing. the Light, descending; the latter its terminus, ascendis the end As
even
man
ascends
from
so
the lowest
matter
to
First the
Cause,
and
Simple
Adam
to the
and
most
attenuated
Potence."
to
Adam
mon Kad-
totality ; of
end
the individual
race,
is the
The the
individual,the material
of the the
divine
nations, ema-
of which the
Adam
Kadmon,
Divine
Man,
is
of all,the beginning. Each of us is the recipient reflected light of the manifested Godhead. Adam Kadmon, Jehovah, is for us, not we for him; for we the end of which he is the beginning. Primitive are all to us. lightemitted him that he might communicate If he be In
divine, so much
name
more
are
we.
Jehovah
is but
the
expression of
nature.
the male
female
of principles
human
THE
KABBALISTIC Bro.
JEHOVAH
187
(Morals and Dogma, p. 771), "is the human Tetragram, which is summed up in the mysterious Yod of the Kabalah, image of the Kabahstic Phallus. Add to this Yod [ ] the ternary of Eve, and you form the name name of Jehova, the Divine Kabalistic and Tetragram, the transcendent magical word, mni."
says
"
"
Adam,"
Pike
Take
add have
race,
to
therefore
man or
or
the male
human
human
it. Eve,
and
the
female
Adam the
divine
Tetragram, Jehovah,
bi-sexual
of which have been in search. we divinity Reversing the letters of the Ineffable Name, and dividing it," says Bro. Pike again, (Morals and bi-sexual as the word Dogma, p. 849), "it becomes YUD-HE or JAH is,and discloses the meaning of much of the obscure language of the Kabalah, and is The Highest of which the columns Jachin and Boaz are the symbol." have Now as we already seen Jachin and Boaz are the phallicpillarsof Masonry; Jehovah is, consequently, the Highest of that which they represent. But the Highest is evidentlythat in which Creation Kadmon is perfected; Adam or consequentlyJehovah is identified with the procreative and prolific forces of
"
man.
"
'
In
'
the
image
created and the then
of
Deity,'
"
he
continues,
and
Female
"
we
are
told, God
He the them:'
the Man
; Male
created
by
first
Human,
that taken
the
woman,
at
contained
in the Goddess
man,
was
from
was
his side.
a
So
Minerva,
and
of
Wisdom,
of
born,
woman
in armor,
of the brain
before
she
was
Jove ; Isis was the sister the wife of Osiris,and within brahm,
88
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
without
sex or
the Source
was
of all,the
Very God,
the Mother and
name,
developed Maya,
is the First the
awe
of all that
is.
The
;
WORD and
with
which
regarded
of the of
has
imposed silence
The Word
Light
we
and
Thus
we
matter
what
or
road
take, whether
we
verse re-
read
Jehovah
and the
backwards add
forwards, whether
Eve
;
or
make
Adam
whether
we ing mean-
Jehovah
and that
it Ho-Hi of
or
Jah, one
meaning
HE-SHE,
stares
us
this He-She is not invariablyin the face. And Very God, the Very Deity, the Primal Being, for has no name emanation, the Universe, ; but is His he who may is Lord Bro. of the Universe, Man. In
the He and
we
fact if God
believe
man.
Pike, it is
his
"
man
that makes
; not
God,
"
God
acts
by
:
works,"
of human
; and
Dogma,
men.
p. In
736)
in heaven
the
heaven
he
God
think
has in
image,
our
because
they
theirs." We
realize that
here; for
we
is Man Adam : Jehovah of the Kabbala Archetype, being humanity at large, human nature, the individual, the species; and plainAdam, or being the prototype, the son the end for which of God, emanated the primal light. Adam from joined to Eve the celestialJehovah, the omnific word makes of Masonry; is the perfect work. the individual man We have thought, however, that, as Bro. Mackey
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
189
has
give us additional information the difficult and abstruse on subjectof the primitive Deity and His emanations our culminatingin man, readers would not object to further light. His exposition
to
kindlyconsented
differ somewhat
from
Bro.
Pike's, but
not
Supreme Being, say the Kabbalists," he tells and scrutab inabsolute us {Encydopcedia, p. 390), "is an Him and unity, having nothing without He is called EN SOPH, everything within Him.
'
The
The
Infinite
One.'
In
this infinitude
he
cannot
be
described in words nor comprehended by the intellect, his existence minds, so as to make intelligible by human therefore, that, perceptible.It was necessary, the En himself comprehensible, to render Soph should make himself active direct and creative. But he could
not
become
the
creator;
are
of qualities
was
Soph, therefore,
in
an
world the
indirect
manner,
finite
infinite These
light
ten
which
he
in
which
dwelt.
emanations
are
Sephiroth or
Splendors of the Infinite One, and the way in which produced was thus : At first the En Soph they were This emanation. forth into space one spiritual sent first Sephira is called Kether, 'the crown,' because first Sephira it occupiesthe highest position. This
contained
in the
within
it the other
nine, which
Sephira,
forth
is called
an
'Wisdom.'
This
sent
I90
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
out
of them
proceeded the
or
Mercy.'
The
"
and junction of Wisdom fourth Sephirah, called Chesed author our through goes on the God has lost
none
tellige In-
the
ten.^
Kabbalistic the
of
His
surditi ab-
by
In the the
of exposition
Dr.
an
Mackey.
first
place
him
"
"
he
is
inscrutable he
was
"
unity,"yet
Kabbalists
distinguishthat
;
"
contains
within create;
"
"
that
not
he
create to
"
everything necessitated to
that
he could that do he
;" indirectly
How ?
had
create
all this in the indistinguishabl they distinguish How do they know all this of the unknowable?
were
How about
they
of the En ?
able
to
Pike of the
the contraction
Soph
And
sending forth
necessityfor
if indeed such
nor a
his emanations En
we
whence
Soph
are
of
making
himself
ble? comprehensi-
desire, nor
How and
as
action,
"
"
all
of
which
of qualities if it had
no
finite
being only
How
a cessity ne-
could
it act
to
action?
act
in infinite inertia?
suppose it alone
was,
nothing outside itself to call it into action, if indeed that which was inert,could be called essentially into act. And if thought, and desire, and action,are of finite beings only; the Very Deity even qualities
was now
there
neither
thinks, nor
able to
in
desires,nor
not
acts
; for
Very
that and
Deity
without
made
is infinite and
being
itself upon have,
various in
unless finite,
finite
Absurdities is
no
heaped
^
to which absurdities,
this
end! quotations,
We
paragraph
and
as
omitted
Hebrevif
characters
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
191
And
was
how, pray,
in that
was
action
in inaction
thought
and
which
think; determination
terminate indeabsolutely that ? for do
distinctness in the
and
knowing, thinking,willing,acting are infinitely superiorto this absurd godhead, which can neither Ah! thus we come beact. will, nor know, nor think, nor
free-builders.Freemasons
indeed, in this world,
the
you the
thus
have
indistinct?
nothing to its superiors. But infinitely of nature Blindly; by necessity desiring. We intending,
where
we
owe
Deity. We,
us?
Men,
How? ing, will-
it created
; without cannot
knowing,
do
we are
it has
none.
We
cannot
cannot
adore
it,for
even
the love We
we
it cannot
love be
Kadmon,
race,
should
stupid to
says
"
SEEN."
The
Mason,"
of
he
with
is
a
these doctrines
center
" is familiar says again (p. 252), of Philo : that the Supreme Being
Light
; for
whose
rays
or
emanations
for which for which
pervade
sonic all Mathe
.
the Universe
that is the
a
Light
journeys are
and
moon
search, and
are
sun
only emblems." created, not by the Supreme the world "That was Being, but by a secondary agent, who is but his WORD (the Adyos), and by types which are but his ideas, WISDOM ( %o"j"ia ), or aided by an INTELLIGENCE, To the Very Deity, of His Attributes." is one which nothing directly ; if anything is therefore, we can owe the to the Word, are obligations due from us, our
in
our
Lodges
192
THE
KABBALISTIC
who the
JEHOVAH
contains Causates in of
Logos,
Bro.
the
Adam has
Kadmon,
told
"
himself,
all First
Pike
us,
Causes."
We hold
a are
well
aware
that at times
Bro.
Pike
seems
to
different
thought, and
is
not
doctrine, and to assert free will, and he action of God; but in these passages
; he
speaking of the Very Deity,the Absolute which of emanations speaking of the Universe
flowed from it. He
reveres
is
have
to
his masters
too
much
sonry. dogma and that of Maverse, A personal Creator, distinct from the UniHis creatures into being by intelligent, calling the Omnipotence of His Will, is the Christian dogma rejectedby the pagan sages, the Kabbalists and Bro. contradict their fundamental Pike. him
not
Whatever of
being emanations of Deity, the Sephiroth or Splendors as set forth by Bro. Mackey. These ten are Sephiroth,"he says, collectively the archetypalman, denominated the Microcosm, as the Greek called it,and each of them fers rephilosophers to a particular part of the body. Thus the Crown the is the head; Wisdom, the brain; and Intelligence, deemed the seat of Understanding." heart, which was sonry. Behold, kind reader, the Intellectual Change of Ma"
of, suspect you suspect the Brother Christian. But let us return to the
"
heart, the
affections
are
the
the Mason's
words
of mine
needed
to
point
"
out
the
logical consequences.
our
These
three," continues
author,
"
represent
the
the
and intellectual;
is therefore
Mercy is the rightarm, and Justice and the left arm, Beauty is the chest. These and hence the second three represent moral qualities;
Intellectual World.
194
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
another
point within
the connection
circle,and
between
pregnant
and the
proof
of
Freemasonry
Ancient
Mysteries." But in Jehovah, read Kabbalistically or reversed, we had and not even we have, for the initiates, more; the explicit words of Bro. Pike, we should, true to our practiceof asserting only what we can prove, have avoided the suggestion of it, for our readers even
would have in have doubted
our
word.
What Yahveh is
is it that
we
only
another
reading
"
word?
name
We of
have
Satan.
the Kabalists
say," Brother Pike (Morals and Dogma, p. 102), asserts is that of Yahveh reversed ; for Satan is not a black god, The Devil is the personifibut the negation of God. cation of Atheism or Idolatry." For the Initiates," he goes on to say, this is not Person, but a Force, created for good, but which a for evil. It is the instrument serve of Liberty or may Free Will. They represent this Force, which presides under the physical the mythologic and over generation,
" "
The
Satan,
"
horned
form of the
of
the
God
PAN;
of
thence the
came
the
he-
goat
and have and
Sabbat, brother
the false Lucifer p. has
Ancient of which
Serpent,
the
the
Light-beareror 102.)
the us?
are
Phosphor,
of the
poets
made
legend."
(Morals
sistibly irrebody everysame
Dogma,
borne
Whither
tide
of
Masonic
instruction for
as
Yahveh,
Jehovah,
read
knows, these
name,
of the
Yahveh
reversed,
and
Bro. and
Mackey
now
Lanci,
Pike
a
to
Bro.
and force
into
Satan,
a
presidesover
but
which
cal physimay be
generation;
force
for
good
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
into man,
was
195
bad
abused.
"
Jehovah
him that
converted
enough
all,
the
behold
converted
into Satan. may say that, after essential difference between Pike
It is true there
Bro.
is,in reality, no
theory of Lanci and his own ; for denying the personality of Satan, of Lucifer, and making him a Force this Force over presiding or generation, Yahveh, will naturallyfind its highest exponent in man. Jehovah in both theories will be, therefore, identified with
man.
We
must
admit
that, while
willingand
do
not
anxious
see
a
to
make
concession, we
are
clearly
Force the generative
for reallyidentical;
"
is not exactly presidingover generation," force itself; nay the expression seems,
"
rather,
In which But
even
to
case
indicate
separate and
if,by
the
doctrine of its
Kabbalists
loses
none
objectionableness. if the theory be the same, For, in the firstplace, why it in so offensive a form? Why open up to express foolhardiness (the ignorance, or malice, or moral smile at the idea of anything immoral Brethren may in this)the direct road to paying to Satan the worship given to Jehovah, for the Jehovah worshiped by the And Craft is Jehovah reversed. since, in the second balists the personal opinionsof Bro. Pike and the Kabplace, influence in exercise no determining the of Satan, for the Spirit so realityand personality named has his existence and personality independent and of their thought,the worship given him is of them The Brethren appalling to Christian hearts. may
196
smile but
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
unenlightenment,
besides
the
at pityingly
our
our
credulityand
directed
to
words
are
others
doctrine from
of Satan-
ship wor-
deduced
the substitution
Masonry
of Baal
for
Jehovah;
of the two
is concealed
might have been answered been reprobated by American Jehovah restored as the name
of Bto.
and general,
tion Deity. The revelaJehovah, and Jehovah, all the interests indeed and
Satan, shows
of Baal the other
as were
restoration
was ever
preserved; as
was
evidenced
by
is still admitted
Masons the
have
broken
could
ties exist
with consistently
Christian faith
Where
a
is the
in such Satan
a
heart,
to
whom
God
becomes
Satan, and
devoid of
beneficent
a
of
man.
But, differ
is For
as
we
must,
Masonic of
doctrine,it
Kabbalistic
Builders
Algabilor
to
Builder
of the Universe.
so
Now
by Masons, Deity is Builder in virtue of his generative principle, Yod," says Bro. Pike (Morals symbolizedby Yod. in the Kabalah, the is termed and Dogma, p. 792) of the Deity." workman opifex, Adam is the human Tetragram," he says again (p. of 771), which is summed up in the mysterious Yod the Kabalah, image of the Kabalistic Phallus." The
"
ancient
Sages
revered
"
"
"
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
for
197
force
generation is subject merely to his Free-Will. Call this force Jehovah, He-She; call it Baal, the God of Fire; call it Satan, or Lucifer, or the Serpent,and give it the worship due to the Deity,it is all one in the Man free in the indulgence eyes of esoteric Masonry. of his God-given passions, whose man understanding resides in his heart, man law is the law of senwhose sual of deified human love, the man passions such is
"
the
"
esoteric Fr^^mason.
If
p. 732 it,and he
CEdipus," says Bro. Pike (Morals and Dogma, the Sphynx, had conquered ) in place of slaying
"
driven
have
it into Thebes
been
harnessed
to
his
chariot,
King, without incest,calamities, exile. If Psyche, by submission and caresses, had or never persuaded Loye to reveal himself, she would Love is one of the have lost him. mythological cause images of the grand secret and the grand agent, beaction and a passion, it expresses at once an a void and wound. The and a plenitude, an a arrow understand initiates ought to this, and, lest the too profane should overhear, Masonry never says
would
much." Bro. McClenachan light, is kinder; and, without saying too much, will tell us of man that the very name (Adam) expresses sensual ing love, thus confirming what Bro. Pike told us in speakWhere Bro.
us
Pike
denies
of the human
"
tetragram.
the
In
Hebrew,
says Bro.
fire of
love, which
"
burns
to
in the On
flesh
South,"
of
. .
McClenachan,
and and
is are,
burn.
Egyptian
man
.
monuments,
in their that
temples, the
of
woman
is
painted red,
name
yellow.
as
Man's
in Hebrew
198
the
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
tie of
beings from breast to breast." {Encyclopcedia, p. 941.) Man, or the male principle, symbolized by ardent fire,was represented by red, and the female principle, identified with the idea of lightor flame, was sented reprewhich earth, over by yellow or light-colored the tidings of a the swift-footed bears messenger of obligatory Mason's and the return succor. distress, This lightof the fire, the female of divine beauty, the Egyptian Venus, was called Athor, signifying dwelling of Horus." {Ihid.) Had CEdipus been wise and not destroyed the Sphynx, the symbol of secret and sublimer knowledge, image
of fire is
"
he
entered
nature to
in the have
mother
provoked
the the
gods
well
; for
as
or Isis,
Nature,
his
wife; Juno
of
Jupiter.
would her
not
Had have
Psyche
been
tered mat-
studied
curious
the
to
Kabbalists, she
the he the
know
of identity
was
lover, for it
of Venus.
husband
To
Light," the offspringof the fire and the flame, the possessors of the Royal Secret, such matters of the not to be judged by the false standards are SANCTA SANCTIS, we profane. repeat again," the {Morals and Dogma, p. 772) : says Bro. Pike Holy things to the Holy, and to him who is so, the will be holy. Seek and ye mysteries of the Kabalah knock and it shall be shall find, say the Scriptures: If you desire to find and to gain opened unto you. have admission said enough to to the Sanctuary, we
of
" "
Children
show
to
you
say
the way. If you do not, it is useless for us it has been useless to say so much." as more,
THE
KABBALISTIC
JEHOVAH
199
Subscribing
of Bro.
perfectly,
Pike,
close
our
for
once
at
least,
in
"
to
the last
ments senti-
as
expressed
chapter.
of
these
two
"
sentences,
we
we
Sancta
Sanctis
know
know and
the
holy
things
of its
Masonry;
we
the
nature
essence
God.
CHAPTER
American
Freemasonry
and
the
Human
Soul
When door of
the
candidate,
he
"
seeking
was
light,
at
the be the We
Masonry,
Divine soul
"
that of God
taught
human have let
us seen
Truth the
of
nature
essence
of him
to
what
Masonry
what
to to
tell reveal
God;
now
study
human
it has
ing regard-
the With
soul.
to
respect
Albert that
various
informs
questions
us
concerning
and takes little
the
soul, Bro.
pp.
Pike
(Morals
present
Dogma,
terest in-
76, yy),
in
"
humanity
he
at
them. the
To
ancients,"
from the of
"
says, To
it
[the
us,
as
light]
to
was
an
outflowing
the
Deity.
truth and of
we
them,
To
it
us,
is
apt
symbol upward
knowledge.
the Soul
as
also, the
journey
; but comes,
through
the
as
Spheres
they
and have
is
symbolical
the soul it goes belief
are
whence whither
some
where
origin,
to
after and
death.
some
men
They
endeavored upon
faith,
creed,
are
those
to
points.
think that and
to
At
the in is
present
day,
to
satisfied
nothing
the soul
regard
a
only
from before
to
believe
something
whether No
or one
separate
the
body
existing
asks
out
it, neither
it emanates
whether of
from
Deity,
like the
is
created and
200
nothing,
of
or
is of
generated
body,
the
issue
the
souls
202
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
of
the
ancient
sages;
lay firmly in
doctrine
of Masonic
sphere nearer
it; that it
Divinity;that
to
emanation
from
will return
be
re-absorbed from
to
into it after
death;
be
that
it must
is in
be
purged
with
avoided,
the
a
fact,connatural
the
existence, since,by
becomes,
Admit
as
soul's union
body,
it were,
attributable to
all this without
body
and of
not
to
the soul.
word
proof,
and
Masonry
will build
wide, and
soul? Pike of
any
on
idea
already
the he
"
only
material
must
therefore
that
Nor
form
in
ourselves," he says
idea of that which
to
p.
use
570), "any
the and and
to
absence
Space
to
us
"
only the idea of the negation of materiality vanishing, ; which Time alone, infinite and boundless, seem
us
be left."
Our
and
to
Dogma,
569),
.
"that
language
our
is not words
adequate
refer
to
ideas ; because
are
images
use
of
what
'
is substantial
our
and
If
we
the word
'to
emanation,'
mind
recurs involuntarily
out
of
some
reject the
emanation
something material, flowing other thing that is material; and if we idea of materiality, nothing is left of the but an unreality. The word thing itself
'
'
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
203 the
suggests
to
us
that
which
is material
and
within
of the senses. If we cut jurisdiction from it the idea of materiality, it presents itself away to us as which no thing,but an intangible unreality, the mind and Existence vainly endeavors to grasp. that have the same color of maBeing are terms teriality; and when we Force, or speak of a Power the mind immediately images to itself one physical and material Eliminate thing acting upon another. that idea ; and the Power or Force, devoid of physical the shadow that unreal as as characteristics, seems dances absence of light;as on a wall, itself a mere is to us merely that which is not matter." spirit Confounding, as Bro. Pike does, the intellect with the imagination, he stumbles around blindly in all directions. We cannot imagine an immaterial being any
more
cognizance and
than, with
the
can
see
one.
The
the
faculties,sight
with the the realms
so,
soar
however,
With
this We
we can
beyond
the
the sensible.
know
virtues
in themselves,
kindness. We can honesty,justice, ize, generaland know e. can g. humanity in general. We is possible: what could what but never know exist', will exist. We existed nor can know, even according
to
can our
mere
material
sense
have
object.
order and
The soul
inherent
words words
"
confounds,
in positive
moreover,
negative in sense,
sense.
with
in form
To
say
he did
nothing
untruth.
not
"
is
quite different
forms
from
Both
contain It is true
purelynegative.
saying he told an but both are a negation, the soul. that, logically,
204
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
according to
we
Bro. it is
Pike, should
an
be
material, since, as
shall see, is
"
"
emanation
from all
which
extended
through
the
itself," emits
is
Matter be
not
alone
tonished as-
subject
to
should when
completelyaround
a
and, without
the soul of
word
of
planation, ex-
man
is immaterial.
"
In
the
Beginning," he
Universe was p. 582), "the The and All, alone with Time
says but
(Morals
One
and
Dogma,
He
was as
Soul. and
'
Space
Infinite
they.
whose And mind
"
"
He
. . .
had be my
this
Soul lo! !
"
shall with
I Create he
a
man,
shall
rule.'
Man,
yet
senses,
instinct,and
he
reasoning
but
an an
And that
not
Man
"
continues,
Infinite the
"
mal ani-
breathed, and
saw,
and
own
thought :
Soul:
until
material im-
spark
the the Immortal! is
from
God's became
Being
and of
Thus,
that
sees
threefold, fruit
and hears is in and loves and
God's
thought,
thinks
feels;that
with
and
; that
harmony
man;
man:
therefore
man,
we
have
the
man,
as man
threefold
the divine
the
the
rational in
as
yet,
that,Man,
animal. And
"
much
in the in
senses,
mere
I create
man
God.
behold
"
with
reasoning
that It is the man's
mind
and
saw,
yet
and
not
Man
! but
animal
breathed, and
spark
from
God's
This
thought," says Bro. Pike. own Being that is properly tirely something, therefore, enfrom the
sensitive
and
FREEMASONRY
rational
soul of
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
205
fore thought beit. Man, consequently, even receiving thinking and reasoning is, according to our author, only an animal; even thinking and reasoning,his actions are not such only by trulythose of man, for they become the reception of the spark of the Divinity. Ah! reason! reason! You that Masonry pretends
man;
man
for
felt and
to
make
and
dethroned you are placed in the rank of brutes, when it suits the purposes of the Craft ! You do not constitute man, man.
so
a principle;
much
of, behold
how
It is another distinct
our
direct
our our
ray
from
the
Deity,
from and
you,
that
enters
brain
brain the
and
becomes
soul:
leave
can,
And
effects
sin. The
of
this
doctrine? do
Divine
A
mere
Deity
cannot
breathing animal, on the other morally responsible. Man, indeed, is responsible; and that which but he is responsible as stitutes conman; sinless. But him is Divine, and hence man,
more
of this later.
Conformably, therefore, to this Divine theory of its union with the body. the soul, it existed before of souls, as pure This opinion of the pre-existence
"
and
celestial
substances, before
on
with
our
(Morals and Dogma, Rabbi, is one of great antiquity. A modern p. 440), Ben Israel,says it was Manasseh always the belief of who It was that of most philosophers the Hebrews. therefore the immortality of the soul: and admitted it was ; for, as Lactantius taught in the Mysteries says. that the soul possible they could not see how it was
says Bro.
and
animate
they
descend
Pike
2o6
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE*
HUMAN
SOUL
should
exist
after
the
body,
was
if it had
not
not
existed
fore be-
independent of that doctrine was The of the body. same adopted by the of learned of the Greek most Fathers, and by many the Latins: and it would probably prevaillargelyat themselves the present day, if men troubled to think the this subject at all, and to inquire whether upon soul's immortalityinvolved its priorexistence." held that the Some he continues, philosophers," soul was incarcerated in the body, by way of punishment How for sins committed by it in a prior state. soul's unconsciousness they reconciled this with the same of any such prior state, or of sin committed there,
it,and
if its nature
"
"
that the
God, of his
mere
body.
held
The
that
Kabthere
alists united
are
the
two
opinions. They
Aziluth,
four
; the
worlds,
world
Aziath
of forms, and
above
and
as
more
perfect than
their them. the
own
regards
inhabit
nature
that
of
the
beings who
the world
All
Souls
in originally
Aziluth,
pure and it without
Supreme Heaven, abode of God, and of immortal who descend from spirits. Those
fault of their own,
a
by
God's
order,
from
are
divine
of
matter,
Heaven
their their
mission
own
is ended. from
who
to
descend
through
fault, go
world, insensibly
losing their love of Divine things, and their selfAziath, contemplation; until they reach the world weight. This is a pure Plafallingby their own tonism, clothed with the images and words peculiarto
the Kabalists."
FREEMASONRY To
was
a
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
207 there of
read
Bro.
Pike,
one
should learned
imagine that
Greek
consensus
Fathers
the Church
the
fact
an
held
of souls,when pre-existence is emphatically the contrary. Origen alone opinion reprobated and condemned by the
not
one
in favor
rest; and
Latin
Father
ever
shared
it.
How
quent trustworthy Bro. Pike is, may be gleaned from frenature! The specimens of the same bility impossiof understanding the after immortality of the soul independently of an immortalitypreceding,is absurd for Bro. Pike, who holds that every thought, every ages
we
will, every
once
action
will Does
subsist
throughout
the
that it exists.
thought
we
now
now
the
from perform pre-existed eternity? If he does, absurdityof one theory will be the best refutation
yet with
a
all this
Divinity,
in man! he
sorry
If there be and
more
picturehe nothing of
Dogma,
some
draws
the Divine p.
asks,
fault in
(Morals
all,but
or
a
vice
which
he
hath of
a
not;
therefore
higher order; and he which hath hardly any moral excellence,perhaps none, the animal hath not in as great a degree even some and excellent of these,such as generosity, more fidelity magnanimity." Bro. Pike, we confess, has a queer way of arriving he says, with at the divine in man. Compare man, animals who are considered his inferiors. Weigh vices In vices, against vices and virtues against virtues. his superiors and in virtues, the beasts are his equals, : Inbe something divine in man. therefore there must
"
his vices
is but
beast
2o8
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
stead the
of
proving
the
divine, dear
of
Brother, you
man a worse
prove better
beast; and
As
says
instead
proving
him above
to
be
one.
animal, you
"
manifestly make
matter
the
is far and
pur
he the
again {Morals
Genesis
Dogma,
that
Hebrew the
the
words
are
used
to
press ex-
and word
we or or
with
'
of uncertain be
'
meaning,
'
translated
generated,' produced,' made,' or the Soul whether need not dispute or debate emanated that has be a Spirit of man ray flowed the Supreme forth from or Intelligence,
the Infinite Power hath called each from
by the created,'
whether
nothing, by
it with
mere
exertion
of Its
will,and
endowed
unto
the Divine
man
and with intelligence like immortality, it may : for, in either case Intelligence the Divine is united
to the
Human. within
this union
the
a
Square
We
see
is
Symbol."
said," he continues,
from the which
"
see
the
as sea
men
Glaucus, recovered
many
"
wherein
was
years not to discern easy, if possible, nature, its limbs having been
partly worn
of the waves,
to
viewing, it what its origwas inal partly broken and and by defacement changed, by the action and shells,weeds, and pebbles adhering
it
more
lain
it,so
that
resembled
was
some
strange
monster
it
when
see
Source.
he
said, we
it.
the
Soul, deformed
it
by
hath
numerabl in-
things that
and ROYAL defaced
have But
done the
harm, have
who him
lated mutithe
Mason
SECRET,
love what of with
can
also with
beholding its
wisdom,
is divine
and
immortal,
its
larger
210
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
lifeless
mass
of
effete matter,
fitted
only
for
rapid
decay."
Yet
as
and
degraded
mire is Pike
no
in the
:
Pike
there
Hell.
In
manifestingthis
same
doctrine
a
Bro.
will at the
time
reveal
literary discovery.
"
and
studies
have
been
multiplied
Comedy, the work of Dante," he says (Morals and Dogma, p. 822), and yet no one, so far know, has pointed out its especialcharacter. as we
upon
"
The
work
declaration of the
of
war
Mysteries. is Johannite and Gnostic, an audaThe Epic of Dante cious like that of the Apocalypse, of the application, of the Kabalah to the Christian figures and numbers dogmas, and a secret negation of everything absolute in these dogmas. His journey through the supernatural is accomplished like the initiation into the worlds He from Mysteries of Eleusis and Thebes. escapes the gulf of Hell over the gate of which the sentence of despair was of written, by reversingthe positions the direct hrs head and feet, that is to say, by accepting oppositeof the Catholic dogma ; and then he reascends to the light, by using the Devil himself as a monstrous ladder. Faust ascends the to Heaven, by steppingon head of the vanquished Mephistopheles. Hell is impassable for those know how not to turn only who it. We free ourselves from its bondage by back from audacity." Bro. Pike, but the kind of audacity It is not audacity, that will free us from Hell. It is not the audacity which feet where head consists in putting our our should be and vice versa, but keeping our head and
revelation
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
211
in
not
that
they purposed,
than
are
worse
think
go
head
foremost
into
Hell.
You
afterwards to get a chance to reverse likely your position. We praisea reasonable audacity;we blame The is far too importmatter unreasoning rashness. ant to be settled by a careless shrug of the shoulders or Our a sneer. or Hell, thought does not make Heaven than our our thought does not destroy them, any more of ourselves or or thought makes destroysthe reality of hold and the the Death
world
around but
us.
Christian
comes
Scientists
to
may
one,
contrary;
reaps
sickness
among earth
every
his harvest
those is not
who
deny his
existence; immortality on
our mere
belief that
we
shall live
Weigh
belief
similar
life beyond the portalsof the tomb. i-egarding doctrine of Masonry in regard to the soul is, The (Morals and therefore, succinctly put by Bro. Pike is immortal; Soul of Man Dogma, p. 533): "The the result of organization, nor an not aggregate of succession of phemodes of action of matter, nor a nomena but an and and Existence, one perceptions; a identical, a spark of the Great Central livingspirit, Light, that hath entered into and dwells in the body; to God therefrom at death, and return to be separated vanish at death, or who gave it : that doth not disperse like breath
or a
smoke,
nor
can
and even as intelligence, activity possesses it existed in God, before it was enveloped in the body."
exists and
This
was
the
doctrine
of
the
Gnostics
and
our
it is
p.
general 248) :
"
form
by
author from
the
Emanation
212
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
Deity
beings, progressive degeneration spiritual emanation of these beings from to emanation, of all to the return purity of redemption and
of all
the
Creator;
condition
and, after
of in all, of
the
re-establishment
a
of
the
primitive harmony
divine the fundamental
all,
fortunate of God
and
; such
truly
were
the bosom
teachingsof Gnosticism." How and consolatoryall this is to human flattering who does there is no one passion and human frailty, The see! not question, however, is not this. The It is not hard to frame question is : Is it true? tems syssubservient to our more even appetites;but the approval of our lower nature is no guarantee of truth. sin and admits Bro. Pike admits the need of purifying
the soul. He has
not
yet, however,
were
told
us
the it in
indeed
we were
taught
but
simple then,
and
"
be," says Mackey's Masonic Ritualist, simply a change for the future, but also
of the
it were,
new
death
to
the world it
was
resurrection
to
life.
same
hence
that among the old Greeks the both to die and to be initiated. signified
to
But
a
him
that
believes
in
immortality is only
"
birth."
Pike,
was
considered
to
be
mystical death; a descent into the infernal regions, where and the stains and imperfections every pollution, evil life were of a corrupt and purged away by fire and water the perfect Epopt was then said to be ; and ence existregenerated, new-born, restored to a renovated of life,light and. purity; and placed under the Divine Protection." {Morals and Dogma, p. 373.)
a
FREEMASONRY
What
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
213
Initiation is in Christianity, Masonry ; nay it is more the bap: for in Christianity, tized soul may, by its own be lost ; in Masonry, fault, the regenerated soul begins its immortal life.
"
Baptism
is in
Thus Pike
earth, which
binds
many
in
chains," says
Bro. Mason
both
(Morals and Dogma, p. 144), "is to the the starting-place and goal of immortality.
in the rubbish of dull
cares
Many
it buries
it is the and
wearying of loftymount
and
meditation, where
are
Heaven,
and Infinity,
To spread before him and around him. minded, the pure, and the virtuous, this life is the beginningof Heaven, and a part of immortality." To read this passage of Bro. Pike one would imagine Mason the busied continually,like some hoary anchorite of the desert, in deep meditation the on truths of eternity; but the poeticfaculty was at times strong within the Brother, and tinged with romance His his serious writings. sonic even standing as a Ma"
author
and
historian," says
Bro.
McClenachan
withal as a (Encyclopedia, p. 993), "and poet, is and his untiring zeal is without most a distinguished, parallel." man Such is the doctrine of Masonry touching the huA doctrine split soul: divided among up and as drous wondegrees,and manifested, littleby little, many when find it with wisdom he can to the initiate, less labor and in beautiful
clearness
and
order
in the
(Funk " Wagnalls Co.) Vol. Encyclopcedia Cabala." Ill, p. 476, under the word The psychology of the Cabala," says the author connected of the article, is closely with its metaphysical
"
"
Jewish
"
doctrines.
man
As
in the
Talmud
sum
so
in the the
Cabala,
is
as represented
the
and
highestpro-
214 duct
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
of
Creation.
in the but
man
The
very
organs
of
his
to
constructed wisdom:
mysteries according
soul is threefold, The being composed appears. Nefesh of Nefesh, "Ruah and Neshamah; corresponds
to
the
Asiyyatic world,
to
Ruah
to
the
Neshamah
the Beriatic.
Nefesh
is the
in man, and as such is in immediate principle touch with the body. Ruah ture represents the moral na; being the seat of good and evil,of good and evil towards Neshamah or desires, according as it turns is pure Nefesh. Neshamah spirit intelligence, pure the incapableof good or evil; it is pure divine light, climax of soul-life. The genesisof these three powers of the soul
is, of
course,
different.
Sefirah,Malkut,
of the soul there the idea of the
'
Dominion.'
Aside
has
its
no
these
last
elements of man,
longer form
are
"
they
soul mation for-
not
included
The
Cabalists
as
explainthe
:
connection
between the
and
body
in
follows
All
souls
exist before
body,
course
in the of of
The
descent
into
the
the
body
is
necessitated
bound in the
to
by
the with
to
finite nature
the
former; it is
unite
Universe,
to
become
conscious
its
and origin,
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
215
to finally
return, after
to the life,
God."
"
When
to
Neshamah
God,
Ruah
enters
Eden remains
enjoy
in peace
the
on
Nefesh
however,
the death
godless,
obstacles
; and
sins encounters
to
its
source
returned, Ruah
no
Nefesh
with
finds
this view
on
transmigration
stress.
which
soul
the Cabala
lays great
In
the
have previously
it must to its source, return may full development of all its perreached fections If it has
one
in terrestrial life.
not
fulfilled this
condition
over
in the
course
of
life,it
must
begin
all
again in another body, continuing until it has Cabala added Lurianic to completed its task. The metempsychosisproper the theory of the impregnation souls do not feel equal to their of souls ; that is,if two body, so that they may tasks, God unites both in one support and complete each other, as, for instance, a do (compare and a blind one lame man conjointly may of the two souls the fable in Sanh. 91a, b). If one needs aid, the other becomes, as it were, its mother, ^ bearing in its lap and nourishing it." in full in order to give We have quoted the passage
our
readers in
clear and
connected
view
of Kabbalistic
doctrine
to
ing soul,without intendregard to the human assert that Masonry accepts the theory in every
also Die
Kabbalah.
1903,
2i6
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
detail.
shown
That
from
to
it the
accepts the
main
points, we
Pike.
no
have do
not
writingsof
more,
Albert
we
We
to
intend
more.
assert
for
have
time
prove
The
soul,therefore, of
an
man,
in the
from
emanation
hence
itself Divine
brain and
reason,
constitutes and
This which
soul
is above
to
distinct
man.
belongs
is not
the
true
animal
Reason,
either as regards guide of man, truth or as regards morality is man in ; for man This virtue of his Divine principle and not of reason. Divine part of man, however, entering into the brain and unitingitself to the three other parts of the living in man, ferior or more principle properly,the three other inviz : the lowest soul by which livingprinciples, of and soul or feels, the middle man sees principle becomes filed deaffection,the higher soul or intelligence, Sin becomes, as it were, by union with matter.
the
"
From it must
this be
defilement, in
freed. There
a
order here
two
its source,
And
are
Masonry.
One
source.
short and
the elect, by enlightened, and of the inner a purification of Divine man; initiation, by which all the pollutions the past are washed and the Children of light," away, leads directly which the lightof the Kabbala to the Primitive and Eternal Light, begin their immortal istence exmediatel that at death the Divine secure spark will imreturn to its source, and the lower principles of life be at rest on earth. The other way is a long in another of purification and difficult way life, by
way is
"
2i8
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
What
of
"
do
you
reallyknow
Mysteries? Little much of mere theory. place, I contend," says Dr. Mackey,
of the earliest truths ages of the world there
"
that
very certain
were
existent and
welfare
happiness of
"
communicated
no
matter
importance to the had been humanity, which how, but, most probably,
of vast God
to
"
by
"
direct These
from inspiration
man."
"
consisted principally in the abstract propositions of the unity of God and the sonry, immortality of the soul." {Symbolism of Freemap. 12).
truths," he continues,
"
No
matter
how
from
"
: us
yes,
our
Doctor, it
here and
matters
our
much
how. in return
You
ask
hereafter,
for Masonic
how
identityof
not
enlightenment ; it matters thing everyMasonry obtained it. Though you claim with the pagan mysteries,you do purpose
from them. You
claim
descent
know
own
that
these
mysterieswere
under worth
oath, and
to
to initiates
was
their life
reveal
So, Noel
quoted by
"
secret
gods,
known
to
the
alone, who
to
admitted
only
than
after
long
member, Reselves our-
painful trials,which
worth
it
was
more
their life
reveal."
{Encydopcedia,p. 513).
are
not
as
fortunate the
as
written and
for Bro.
instruction
of
Pike's, and
those
you
other Masonic authors. And many yourselfin the clearest of terms confess.
"
this
And
you
cyclopcedia, p. 297),
connects
say it
{En[Ma-
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
219
mysteries of the pagan world, and with the old priestsof Eleusis, Samothrace, or of Syria, let us honestly say that we now no longer treat of Freemasonry under its present organization, which know did not exist in those days, but of a we science peculiar, and peculiar only,to the Mysteriesand to Freemasonry, science which call Masonic a we may symbolism, and which constituted the very heartblood of the ancient and the modern and institutions, of form, a dissimilarity gave to them, while presenting of spirit." an identity lowing attention to the folNow, kind reader, pay special
" "
sonry]
with
the
admissions:
"
And the
and
in tracing
Freemasonry in those pre-historic days, although we shall be guided by no documents, and shall have no authentic spoken or written narratives shall find fossil thoughts emwhich to rely, on we balmed ing in those ancient intellects precisely like the livwhich in modern out ones Masonry, and crop which, like the fossil shells and fishes of the old physical formations of the earth, show by their resemblance of the to livingspecimens, the graduated connection past with the present."
Is it
our
on
such
our
uncertainties
eternal
soul and
at best, of uncertain origin? Mysteries,consequently, only through authority? Mysteries known fossil thoughts embalmed (we are not told why fossils were embalmed) in ancient intellects? Pride indeed be flattered by fancying itself the elect; passion may be flattered by pooh-poohing the idea of Hell; may be humbled reason by denying its right to be may in spite will still, nature the guide of man ; but human
220
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
HUMAN
SOUL
"
of
all, loudly
seeks
and
persistently
Truth better that it the
protest
that the
man
who
sincerely
will have of will
not
Divine
regarding
substantiated
who such
soul,
the his trine docsoul and
something Masonry;
abandon
man
recklessly
to
uncertainties
absurdities
as
these.
CHAPTER American
XI
Freemasonry
and
the
Bible
If
any
one
of
our
readers
cannot
ever
glanced
over
Masonic
the and
ritual, he
but that he
been found
impressed
to
by
in
frequent
the
a
references
the
seems,
Bible,
deep
of
respect
professed
"
for
it.
It says
fact,
Masonic
part
Masonry.
"
A
an
Lodge,"
Mackey's
of Masons and
Ritualist,
p. 47,
is the
or
assemblage
having
Charter
to
Holy
Warrant
Bible, Square,
of
Constitution
work."
on
is this
all; for
the
next
us
page
"
we
have
the
following assemblage
be that
'
information
of and
afiforded
Every
for
lawful
will
Masons,
duly congregated
constituted
when
work,
It is the
just
legally
form
Lodge.'
it contains
and when
just,
orderly,
a
site requiBible,
quorum,
are
the
Square
The p. 34.
and
Compasses
of
the
present."
in the
purpose
"
Bible
is
Lodge
to
us as
is told
the
our
us
on
The
our
Holy
Bible
given
to
rule
and
guide
and
of the
faith; the
to
Square
with
square
our
actions;
and
more
Compasses
in
circumscribe
all
passions
is the
due
bounds
Brother
mankind,
and hence of
especially
God;
the
to
our
with
Masons;
the
Bible
to
light
which
enlightens
that which
; and
our
path
duty path
that
Square
the
enlightens
the
the
of
duty
fellow-men
Compasses,
to
which
enlightens Again,
path
of
duty
is
ourselves."
to
"
on
p. 54,
the
Bible
221
presented
us.
The
222
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
Lodge," we are informed, consists of a Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. The Holy Bible is dedicated to God ; and the ; the Square to the Master The Bible is dedicated to Compasses to the Craft. God, because it is the inestimable giftof God to man, * * * 1 ^-he Square to the Master, because it is the
furniture of
a
"
proper
Masonic
to
emblem
of
the
office;and
due
the
passes Com-
the
are
Craft, because
by
due
attention
to their
use,
they
taught
to
circumscribe
their desires
and
bounds."
a
find in
one
foot note
tion quota-
Dr.
Oliver, in which
existing between
Masonic God's Ark is of
the
modern
Lodges
revealed the
sacred
roll of in the
Covenant,"
a
that
"
the
our
same
placed in
content
conspicuouspart merely
with
of
is not
the placing
blages assem-
its altar in the secrecy of its make of its an open profession Bible
respect
by bearing the
Turn
to pp.
overtlyin
its solemn
143-144
of the Masonic of
processionto
of
a new
be observed
new
dedication
lodge.
"
the members
the
"
of the
Writings
not
carried
by
or
some
suitable
on
ber, mem-
than
this, lower
for theBible
"
page
during A the of consecration." platform is ceremony and provided with seats erected in front of the pulpit for the Grand officers. The Holy Bible, Square,and
144,
we
"
These
asterisks
are
Mackey's,
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
223
placed upon a table in front of the Grand Master ; the Lodge is then placed in the centre, upon the platform,covered with white satin or linen, and encompassed by the three
are
Compasses,and
Book
of Constitutions
tapers and
In the
"
the vessels of corn, wine, and oil." the " Worshipful to charge that is made
elect
on
Master
is
ance observBy a diligent your Lodge, the constitutions of which Masonry, and, above all, the Holy Scriptures, are given as a rule and guide of your faith,you will be and reputation, enabled to acquityourselfwith honor and lay up a crown of rejoicing, which shall continue where time will be no more (Ritualist p. 159). In the charge to the Grand Chaplain (p. 190) the Bible is brought prominently forward The : which you have chosen for your lot in life is profession the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties and of your present appointment with steadfastness in well-doing. The Holy Bible, that perseverance great lightof Masonry, we entrust to your care." St. John's the publicprocessionon In placeswhere the various items day is held (p.202), we find among velvet the Bible, Square and Compasses on a crimson cushion carried by an aged Master Mason, supported is by two deacons, with their staves ; and the same to be procession on prescribed page 204 for the solemn Masons made when lay the foundation stone of public
" ^ " "
"
"
"
structures.
at
the dedication
of
Masonic
halls the
Bible
the
same
placein
"
procession(p. 217) ; and reached and the Lodge has b^en with the it stands a pedestal,
the and compasses
the square
laid thereon ;
224 and
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
upon
another
Book
of Constitutions."
to
The for
Bible
follows
Mason
the
only a
"
Master No
Mason
is entitled to
can
Masonic with
Freemason
.
be interred unless
.
of the Order
.
he has
the
can
Master's be
no
degree;
and
from
this restriction
there
solemn
In that exception." (Ritualist, p. 230). function we passes find the Bible, Square, and Com"
on
blue
velvet
cushion
covered of the
with
black
"
lodge
(p.
gives us the rules for the Bible's place Masonic when enter processions publicbuildings. In the Bible, Square, and Compasses, enteringpublicbuildings, and the Book of Constitutions to be placed are
240
"
231)Page
in front and
Master, and
must
the
Grand
Marshal
Grand
keep
Past
on
near
The
The real
" "
implements
an
of
Master whose
307.
we
first is
open and
book
on
Ezekiel,"
XX."
whose
right-hand
read
naturallytake the book for the Bible. The following is the accompanying explanation. The Book of the Law, that great light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will direct your path to the temple of happiness and point out to you the whole The duty of man. Square teaches us to regulateour actions by rule and line,and to harmonize conduct of morality and virtue. our by the principles The Compasses teach us to limit our desires in every station; that rising to eminence by merit, we may live respected and die regretted." Listen even to what a seems plain avowal of the divine inspiration of the Scriptures. It was at the Burning Bush," we are told on p. 361, that Moses Chap.
"
We
"
"
226
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
(p. 159) ; it is of the Grand that Chaplain as put into the hands (p. 190) ; it will guide the great lightof Masonry direct his path to the temMason to all truth ; it will ple of happiness, and point out to him the whole duty of man at the burning bush ceived re(p. 307) ; Moses
no more
" " " "
continue
when
time
shall be
"
the
was
divine
commission,
Pentateuch
the
fulfilment
of
which
realized
in the
texts
than
this, Bible
the
an Ritualist,
(p. 361); and more scattered profuselythroughare out appropriatepassage being read
this of Masonry's presentation the Bible,as an unfair reveres
one
in each No claim
degree.
one
will
accuse
It
is, on
the
contrary,
so
which
at
first the
sightseems
facts,so
the
unanswerable,
and many Doubtless
ear
publicare
are
the
ments. sentistrikes
an as
there
Christian
strange.
"
The
Holy
"
Bible
is
given to us as the rule and guide of our faith; the actions ;" the Bible Square to square our the path of our is the lightwhich enlightens duty to God; the Square, that which enlightensthe path of (p. 34). These expressions duty to our fellow-men sound to limit strange to Christian ears, for they seem the sphere of Bible influence. To the Christian,the Bible is not only the rule of faith, but of action also; the path of our it enlightens duty not only to God, but and that of our to ourselves. duty to our fellow-men restricted light. Another It is a universal, not a theory that strikes the listener as strange is that the Bible should be proposed as a rule of Masonic faith
. . .
"
when
creed
"
belief in God
.
constitutes
.
.
the
sole he is
of
Mason
"
at
least the
only
creed
that
But
aroused suspicions
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
227
are
soon
soothed
to
aptly
framed
into
the softness of Masonic nothing else to urge, those whom would still believe that phrase has captivated, Masonry was, in great part at least,misunderstood. Fortunatelywe have something else to set before
our
readers. To
one
unacquainted
mere
with
the
methods
of
sonry, Ma-
in
of the Bible in the Lodge or presence the reverent procession is enough to demonstrate for it ; he overlooks the is never found alone. the and Let Bible in
the
respect of Masonry
fact that the Bible
not
significant
He
never
realizes that it is
covered of
by
the square
compasses
him
object
on
Masonic
respect.
the
masonry authorityof Dr. Mackey in his Encyclopedia of Free(p.698) : the By an ancient usage of the Craft," he says, Book of the Law is always spread open in the Lodge. There else that is Masonic, is in this,as in everything is an appropriatesymbolism. The Book of the Law To close it would be to the Great Light of Masonry. from the rays of divine lightwhich emanate intercept it, and hence it is spread open to indicate that the Lodge is not in darkness, but under the influence of its But the Book of the illuminatingpower. In each degree there is not opened at random. Law allusion to the design whose are appropriate passages it of the degree, or to some part of its ritual,makes expedient that the book should be opened upon those sidered passages." Then after enumerating the passages conIn conclusion, it appropriatehe continues : their due that to give these passages be observed may IMasonic importance,it is essential that they should he
"
"
"
228
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
covered
square,
by
and
the
square
are
and
compasses.
to
The
Bible,
of sonry. Ma-
significant symbols
allude the
to
ancient the
Grand
of
Masters.
is emblematic
of
wisdom
King Solomon;
of Hiram square, of the power the skill of the Chief Builder. have further
; and
Some
these symbols by supposing spiritualized of the them to symbolizethe wisdom, truth, and justice In any view Grand Architect of the Universe. they connected instructive and inseparably become portions of
must
the
true
Masonic
ritual
which,
to
be
understood,
together." (Ibid., p. 699.) Do want anything plainer? It is essential you that the Bible be covered by the square and compasses
be studied that these passages
are
may
receive
their due
Masonic
port. imof be
They
the
true
inseparably connected
Ritual and
to
portions
must
we
Masonic
be understood
studied
Bible
to
together.
Bible
as
It is not
therefore, as
Masonic
said, the
and them
objectof
respect, for
square
covers
the
revelation, the
Christian
essential ; no not are compasses with the square and compasses. But perhaps our author will
kindly inform
us
of the
meaning
Masonic
and compasses familiar in so square symbols, for thus only we shall be able to preciate apthe meaning of the Bible read in the lightof of He
turn
the
will,with
to
pleasure,if
"
you
"
the
word
Talisman
(Encyclopedia, p. 788-789.)
"
We
do
not
need," he says,
of
"
better
instance
of
this transmutation
Gnostic
talismans
into Masonic
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
229
plateto be Valentine,
"
Philosophorum of Basil who the Hermetic flourished philosopher, in the seventeenth century." This plate,"he continues, which is hermetic in its design,but is full of Masonic symbolism, represents a winged globe inscribed with a triangle within a and it reposes on a dragon. On the latter square, stands human a figure of two hands and two heads, surrounded and five stars repreby the sun, the moon, senting
found in the Azoth
"
the
a
seven
planets. One
a
is that of
male
the other, of
female.
hand
attached
; that to
to
the male
the
tributed dis-
female,
square.
seem
The
me was
square
to
and
thus
to
indicate
to
phallic meaning
there
was
attached
a originally symbols, as
to
the
point within
in the
in this The
plate also,
compass
appears
centre
globe.
by the male figurewould represent the and the square held by the male generative principle, quent subsefemale, the female productive principle. The and given to the combined interpretation square
held compass
was
the the
transmutation
from
the
Hermetic
talisman Where
to
Masonic
Pike (Morals Mackey and Dogma, pp. 850, 851), in his instructions to the of the Thirty-secondDegree, will continue. Brethren You at the beginning of this reading ter] [chapsee old Hermetic he says, an Symbol, copied from furt, of Valentinus, printed at FrankMateria Prima the in 161 3, with a treatise entitled Azoth. Upon it tained a see Triangle upon a Square, both of these conyou above this, standing upon in a circle; and a only,but two body, with two arms dragon, a human
Bro.
"
"
"
'
'
230
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
heads,
the
one
male head
the
other and
female.
By
of the male
the the
side of female
male the
Sun,
crescent
by
that
head,
full
a
Moon,
And
within
on
moon.
the
hand
the the
female
side,
"
great
as
Producer,
the Earth."
.
was
Mother,
.
"
generative agents, the Heavens the Sun have and always been regarded as and male; as the generators that fructifythe Earth it to produce." cause The he continues, is the Hermaphroditic figure," Symbol of the double nature ancientlyassignedto the and and Producer, as Brahm Deity, as Generator the Aryans, Osiris and Isis among the Maya among male, so the Moon was Egyptians. As the Sun was
" "
As
the
procreative and
female; and
Osiris. The
Isis
was
both
the
sister and
the
wife
of
Compass,
therefore, is the
the
Hermetic
of the
Square
the
From
the
Heavens,"
he
adds,
; from
"
come
spiritual
his
terial ma-
and
immortal and
the Earth
The
Hebrew dust
Genesis of the
says
that and
Yehovah
of the
Earth,
of life.
breathed
nostrils
the
breath
planetary spheres, represented by Through the seven the Mystic Ladder of the Mithriac Initiations,and it in his dream (not with three, by that which Jacob saw but with seven steps),the Souls, emanating from the bodies ; Deity, descended, to be united to their human and through those seven spheres they must re-ascend,
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
231 of the
to
return
to their
origin and
home
in the bosom
Deity." Compass, therefore, as the Symbol of the Heavens, represents the spiritual, intellectual,and moral portion of this double nature of Humanity ; and the Square, as the symbol of the Earth, its material, sensual, and baser portion." Read, therefore, kind reader, your Bible illumined the as by the Square and Compass, which are the same and you have the Masonic Bible, point within a circle,
but not
same,
"
The
the but
Christian.
what
The
material
book
may
be the
is the
Will have have
material
book,
by interpreted
respect and
on
such
reverence
symbols!
? We
Christians
seen
how
letters
the
Cross
Bro. Cross is
of Pike
Christ
been
perverted by those whom the Sages; we have seen sensual symbol ; such use
to
desecration; argument,
therefore,
but
be
valid must
use.
establish not
only Understanding
which
is
we
the use,
now
the Christian of
the
object
Masonic
and
not
ence, rever-
the
Masonic
Bible
over
the in the
not
Christian,
solemn
could
Masonic
its presence
its very
place in
did
of
its bearer,
subject.
The
And
the
first
as
to its
;
place.
Bible does
for the Bible
not
"
occupy Book of
place of
honor of
this is reserved
Constitutions"
comes
Masonry.
The
invariably
and, if at all in the procession, of the beginning; the Book Grand Lodge, it is near Lodge at the end of the Constitutions is in the Grand ter. Masand immediately precedes the Grand procession, of honor, MackThat this latter is the position
earlier in the
2^2
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
ey's Ritualist
post of
rear." him who
"The us: (p. 240), clearly informs honor in a Masonic processionis always in the Neither be caught by the venerable aspect of
carries the
Bible, for he
The the idol
is not of the of
the Craft
type of
is the
prime
race
life,in whom
their sway
;
of the
assert
passions are virtually dead or hastening to decay, is not the symbol of human sonry dignity to Masonry, but of human decrepitude. Matherefore makes quite other provisions for the
which
the sensual
bearer
"
of
its Book
of
Constitutions; for
"
instead
of
the oldest member of the lodge being (p. 200) ; "an son Ma(p. 217); "an aged Master aged Mason" Master (p. 217), etc., as for the Bible; it is the of the oldest lodge is its (p. 202, 204, 216) who
" "
"
bearer. for
no
This
man
makes
all the
"
difference
"
in
the
world,
in a lodge who Master to be eligible is beyond life's prime and incapableof Masonic work. Master of the oldest lodge is the person of The honor in Masonry, as the rear is the place of honor. The when covered Bible, even passes, by the square and com"
is
"
the
worst
of it in both of
respects.
say when
what
Masonry
sacred the
to
they
than any
Masonry
or
Koran,
of any
Vedas,
Zendavesta
that
sacred
what religion it may ? What becomes of all those fair phrases about the Bible, the inestimable ;" the giftof God to man rule and guide of faith enlighteningthe path of our roll of God's the sacred revealed duty to God ;"
" " "
book
other
be religion,
will ; of
"
that
which
will enable
"
us
to
lay
up
crown
no
which rejoicing
will continue
when
time
will be
234
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
trestle-board,so
endeavor
should
to
operativeand speculative, erect our spiritual building agreeably designslaid dowrn by the Supreme
we,
both
Architect and
Universe, in the great books of nature sonic revelation,which are our spiritual, moral, and Maof the trestle-board." Then follows the passage
we
have and
so-called
sacred of
books,
on
perfectequality
man.
manifestations
says
the
Deity
it
to
What
; the
Masonry
the for faith each each
of the
in turn
professesfor each;
Bible, it manifests
for the Mason's
to to
man
it manifests Each
"
all.
in the
turn
;" each
"
inestimable
gift of
revealed
God
will
"
of the Mason's
duty
God
;" ;"
is the
God's
for equallyappliedto all. Such praiseand reverence the Bible is mockery. Imagine a critic who would bestow equal praiseon obscure writer from Shakespeare to the most every in one of our dailies;a panegyristwho penny-a-liner has the same ter being, no mateulogiesfor every human how who merit is different in mind and
achievements;
an
artist
value when
equallyin raptures and discovers equal artistic in a masterpieceby Raphael and in a rude charcoal sketch by a country bumpkin; and tell me what their praise and reverence, set upon you would and eulogize a favorite they profess to revere
or a
statue,
or
historic
character!
as as
No divine
revered
equally
no
But
revere
you.
"
that
we
sons Ma-
Bible; and
this
know
by
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
235
experienceto
we Softly! we answer, have said no such thing. We are deahng here, as we have dealt throughout this book, with the Masonic well-instructed system; with esoteric,or Masonically
be
false."
members
as
of the Craft.
That
no
Mason
well-informed
of his Order, can, from a Christian principles the Bible as Divine, this chapter revere standpoint, will conclusively We ing attempt and assert nothprove. It is impossible for us to enter into a Mason's more. mind to find out justhow much how littlehe or knows that to beheve us obliges ; and Christian charity he rather knows less than
more.
to the
From
what
Dr.
Mackey says about the Christianization of Masonry {Encyclopcedia, p. 162), and from the fact that Oliver, Hutchinson, and the earlier English ritualists were such Christianizers,it is not hard to imagine how sincere Protestants,English and American, may many for they went have been duped in the matter; to the Bible and not to the ancient pagan as mysteries, they for the interpretation should have gone {Ritualist, p. 41, etc.), the Blazing of Masonic symbols. Hence the Star of Masonry was as interpreted by Webb of the Star which appeared to guide the wise men Savior's nativity {Ritualist, East to the placeof our author, "this, which is one p. 56). "But," says our of the symbol, being of the ancient interpretations
" "
considered
to
as
too
sectarian
suitable un-
the universal
omitted
since the in
has been
at
timore, Bal-
1842."
Grand
'
"In
1820, the
"
Lodge
not
Ohio,"
be
advancement
of
professa
belief in God
and
236
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
body adopted
as we
resolution
it from
our
declaring
fathers,
have
received
of the Holy Scriptures.' authenticity In 1845, the Grand Lodge of Illinois declared a belief in the authenticity of the Scripturesa necessary fication qualifor initiation. Although in Christendom very few Masons deny the divine authority of the Old and New Testaments; yet to require, as a preliminary to the declaration of such a belief,is directly in initiation, opposition to the express regulations of the Order, belief in God in demand which and, by implication, a the immortality of the soul as the only religious tests {Encyclopcedia, p. 698). On Encyclopcsdiaof Freemasonry p. 97 of the same teaches the divine
"
our
"
author A
touches
upon
the
"
same
matter.
belief," he
says,
in
the
authenticityof
the
Testaments as a ligious reScriptures of the Old and New of initiation, does constitute not qualification of the laws of Masonry, for such one a regulation would of the Institution, and destroy the universality under its action hone but But
a
Christians
in
could Grand of
a
become
admission.
'
1856
the
Lodge
belief in
declared
that
distinct
avowal
divine
authority of
the
required of every one who of Masonry, and that a denial of the same is an offence cipline. against the Institution, calling for exemplary disIt is hardly necessary to say that the enunciation of this principle with the almost universal met of the Grand condemnation Lodges and Masonic ists jurThe Grand of this country. sequently Lodge of Ohio subrepealedthe regulation. In 1857, the Grand but the Lodge of Texas adopted a similar resolution;
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
237
general sense
tests
of the
a
except
belief in God."
there may have been in the action sincerity of these Grand of judging. Lodges, we have no means It is hardly necessary to say," states author our (p. 97), "that the enunciation of this principle with met
"
What
the
almost
universal
condemnation
of
the
Grand
of this country." Hence Lodges and Masonic jurists the principle had for it came into to be abandoned, conflict with the universality of Masonry, which is For if Masonry were not Christian. tian simply a Christhe Jew and the Moslem, the Brahman institution, and the Buddhist, could not conscientiously partake of its illumination" Thus the {Encyclopcedia, p. 163). if sincere, had to be content to drop the lodges, even question of the authenticityof the Scriptures; and whether the Bible is open their altar,whether on they whatsoever or publiclycarry the Bible in procession, else they do with it, whatsoever orthodox-sounding into their ritual,we will not phrases they may weave into believingthat any word be deceived action of or theirs is a professionof Christian faith.
"
When
our
author
tells
us
that
"
few
Masons
the
Christendom
New
deny they
not ten
the he
divine
must
authorityof
not
Old
as
Testaments,"
that
we
be understood
not not
affirm
such
authority. By
do
do
are
that
we
affirm
foolish
it.
We
denying, deny
do
we are
neither
If
others
enough to attribute to us such a great age, the them. rests with We, on our part, deny responsibility We nothing ; we are silent. We don't believe it ; no. Neither do we don't affirm it ; no. deny it.
238
But of the
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
perhaps our
Bible made
texts
readers
would
like to
see
some
use
We The
from
pp. 271,
ist. Ritual-
"
are
from
and
Mackey, taken with modifications, slight but necessary the second chapter of the First Epistleof Peter, the 28th chapter of Isaiah."
verses
MASONIC VERSION. BIBLICAL VERSION.
"
Wherefore,
lay
all
"
Wherefore
laying
and
away
all
guile, and
malice, and
detractions.
simulation dis-
hypocrisies, and
evil
"
envies, and
. .
all
speakings.
If
so
be is
as
ye
tasted that
to
"
If
so
be Lord
you
have
sweet. to
a
tasted Unto
the
Lord
gracious,
a
whom
that whom
stone, but
the
is
as
coming
chosen
ye
unto
living stone,
of
men,
coming,
chosen
and
:
living
men,
disallowed
of
as
a
indeed
but
rejected,indeed, by
made
Be
you
a
God,
and
precious ;
ye
an
able honoralso
as
also
built up
built up,
ual spirit-
holy
priesthood,
offer
to
up
holy priesthood,
fices, spiritual sacrito
sacrifices
acceptable
God.
tained con-
offer
up
Wherefore,
in the I
also, it is
acceptable
JESUS
CHRIST.
God
by
scripture.Behold,
a a
Wherefore,
Sion
it
tion, founda-
is said
I
in
the
tried
stone,
a sure
precious
tion foundaand
he
lay in
that
not
chief
in
corner-stone,
;
corner-stone,
elect, precious,
shall
be
he
that haste
believeth, shall
to
believe
not
make
you,
pass
it
over.
him, shall
To
HE
confounded.
Unto
therefore, which
an
lieve, beeven
you
it is
to
honor;
be the
same corner.
and
is honor;
them
that the
is
them
stone
which which
disobedient,
builders is made
which
same
the
rejected, the
head
stone
disallowed, the
the
"
the
a
of the
of
corner:
head
of
the
stumbling,
to
Brethren
that
rock
of
scandal,
at
them
God,
doing
ye
stumble
the
word,
FREEMASONRY
put
to
AND
THE
BIBLE
239
silence
men.
the
As
neither
do
beHeve, whereunto
set.
foolish
also they'are
a
But
a
you
are
cloak
serv-
chosen
generation,
a
kingly
a
priesthood, purchased
may
holy
his
nation,
that
you
of
God.
Honor
all men;
people:
out
love
the
brotherhood;
fear
declare called
virtues, who
of ness dark-
God."
hath
you
light:
not
a
time
but
past
are now
were
people:
the
of God.
mercy,
Who
but
had
now
not
obtained
mercy.
Dearly
you
to
as
I beseech and
pilgrims,
refrain desires
yourselves from
which
war
carnal
against the
soul."i
The about
the
omission
of Christ
one
in
passage
Him,
is
of the the
omission
of
written
is another. But when one bers remempleasures, that stone worship or pillarworship (Encyclowas pcediaof Freemasonry, p. 583 ) only one form of Phallic worship," and that the ninth Sephirah of is Foundation the generativeorgans, the Kabbalists or both the reason of the omission he will easilyunderstand and the meaning substituted for of Christ's name done this was it. But as by making Jehovah a Heis done that the same She ; we not to be surprised are Bible read The in the light of in regard to Christ. the square and compasses can give no other meaning. The second text is from Mackey's Masonic Ritualist,
"
,
sensual
pp. 431,
432. capitalsmine.
A. P.
Italics and
"
240
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
MASONIC
VERSION.
BIBLICAL
VERSION.
"For of
this
Melchizedek,
met
king
Most
"For
this Melchisedech of
was
Salem,
God
King
most
Salem,
priest of
who from
the
met
High
of
to
Abraham
high
of
God,
the
To
returning
the
slaughter him;
gave
a
Abraham
returning
him.
the
and also
kings, and
also of
blessed
slaughter
blessed
Abraham
kings,
whom the
whom
Abraham
tenth
part
divided
tithes of
pretation, by inter-
by
also
interpretation, King
of
all: who
first indeed is
Righteousness,
of
king king
of
justice: Salem,
without out withneither
end the
Salem, which
; without
is.
and that
then
also
of
:
King
Peace
without
without
mother, days
neither
nor
of
end
the
life;
of
beginning life,but
of
ever.
of
of Son
but
made
unto
a
Son
likened
unto
a
God),
this the the
abideth
Now
God, continueth
Now
man
priest for
how great
also
gave
consider
unto
great
even
consider
man
was,
this
is,
the
out
to
whom
patriarch
tenth of
Abraham
gave
Abraham tithes
patriarch
the
the
are
spoils.
of the
And
sons
of
verily,they that
of
things.
are
And
the
indeed
sons
office
mandment com-
of
of
receive
the
priesthood, have
to
take
tithes
to
of
the
commandment
take
to
the
people, according
is of
come
their
out
brethren,
of he
of
their
they
the
tes-
though
also
came
they
of
loins of Abraham.
Thou tifieth.
art
a
For
out
Abraham. is
not
But
he, whose
tithes of
him
.
gree pediamong
after
the
And
order
numbered
inasmuch
an
them, received
and
the of
ham, Abra-
not
without
oath, he
those
blessed
made
priest. For
without with said
an
priests
were
promises.
whom
he,
are
these
things
oath; by
The
spoken, is of another
which altar.
no one
tribe, of
on
oath,
him
:
attended it is
the
unto
For
evident
that
242
"
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
The
Holy
was
Kabalah,
carried
or
tradition Chaldsea
of
the
children
of
Seth,
from
by Abraham,"
"
taught p. 97), says Bro. Pike, {Morals and Dogma, and to the Egyptian priesthoodby Joseph, recovered purifiedby Moses, concealed Bible, revealed by the Savior symbols in the to Saint John, and tained, conentire,under hieratic figures analogous to those in the Apocalypse of that Apostle." of all antiquity, Bro. entirely different Pike, however, gives an he treats version of the whole exproceeding when of From the bosom of the Mysteries. professo dom, wisof consummate man a Egypt," he says, sprang initiated in the secret knowledge of India, of Thoth Phtha Persia, and of Etheopia, named or by his compatriots,Taaut by the Phoenicians, Hermes bins. Trismegistus by the Greeks, and Adris by the Rabunder
" "
Nature
. . .
seemed have
to
have
on
for her
favorite,and
to
lavished him
to
study
so
and
to
Deity had,
and
into him he
the
sciences
might instruct the whole world." Bro. In Egypt," continues he instituted Pike, selected a certain number of per: he hieroglyphics sons whom he judged fittest to be the depositaries of his secrets, of such taining only as were capable of atthe throne and the first offices in the mysteries ; he united them in a body, created them Priests of the Living God, instructed them in the sciences and arts, and the symbols by which explained to them they veiled. were Egypt, 1500 years before the time of in the Mysteries One Moses, revered Supreme God, called the Only Uncreated," etc., etc. als {Morand Dogma, p. 364).
.
"
"
FREEMASONRY
"
AND
THE
BIBLE
243
Joseph,"
monarch
he
initiated.
that ride
After
"
made
him
his
Prime
in his second
chariot, while
him
land him of
a
Abrech!
(bow down)
In addition
to
and
him
over
the gave
Egypt.
new
this, the
King
Tsapanat-Paanakh, and married him to Asanat, daughter of Potai Parang, a priestof An where the Temple of Athomor was Hieropolis, Great God of Re, the Egypt; thus completely could not have him. He contracted this naturalizing out withmarriage, nor have exercised that high dignity, being first initiated in the mysteries." (Morals and Dogma, p. 368). Where the Mysteries originated is not known." (Morals and Dogma, p. 353). "It is supposed that from of Chaldaea, into India, by the way they came into Greece." carried Egypt, and thence were
name,
"
In
order
Bro.
to
make knows
the
Bible
the
Kabbala
in
guise, dis-
Pike
Joseph teaches the priesthood. When, however, the story, Egypt and reverse
97,
some
of
two
Moses
have the priests before Joseph, for the 1300 years and separated by only Joseph were
mysteries times
about
centuries..
Bro.
more
modern
ren, Breth-
that Christ revealed in asserting grievously in anything to St. John which the latter embodied who McClenachan, assures us the Apocalypse. Bro. of the Brethren, that he is giving us the latest researches the word Cannes gives a different story. Under (Encyclopcediaof Freemasonry, p. 987), he says:
erred
"
The
earliest instructor
of
man
in
letters,sciences,
244 and
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
in architecture, geometry, botany, especially and agriculture,and in all other useful knowledge, the (myth). This universal was fish-god Oannes sian teacher, "according to Berossus, appearedin the PerGulf, bordering on Babylonia, and, although an
arts,
animal,
of and with At
was
endowed
usual
a
with
reason
and
The
a
appearance human
a man.
creature
that
a
fish,having
feet like unto
men
beneath
that
of
fish,
personage
never
conversed
during
The
the
was
day, but
a
ate statue
with
of the
them. fish-
Kouyunjik
Oannes.
there
colossal
the Book of following is from hold their Masons Enoch (vol. II, p. 154): 'The grand festival on the day of St. John, not knowing that therein they merely signifythe fish-godOannes, of the Mysand the first founder the first Hermes teries, whom the Apocalypse the first messenger to with was given, and whom they ignorantly confound author of the common the fabulous Apocalypse."
god
What
remains and
of
the have
Christian
"
Bible, after
"
the
mains re-
Square
Compasses
that
covered hearts
it?
on
What
of respect in Masonic
fed
fish-stories
one
regarding it,like
Oannes?
we
of
the
contemptible
his
own
about
Let
the
reader another
make
comments, Bro.
citation from
and Kabbala:
Pike,
in which
"
Bible
he says, (Morals truly dogmatic religions," have issued from the Kaand Dogma, pp. 744, 745), balah and return to it : everything scientific and grand in the religious dreams of all the illuminati, Jacob Boehme, Swedenborg, Saint-Martin, and others, is borrowed from the Kabalah; all the Masonic tions associaand their Symbols." to it their Secrets owe
" "
All
The
Kabalah
alone
consecrates
the
Alliance
of
FREEMASONRY Universal
AND
THE
BIBLE
245
it
the
Reason
and
the
Divine
two
Word;
forces
tablishes, es-
of
being;
with of the
apparently it alone
with
Faith, Power
it has
Liberty,
Present,
Science
the
"
with
Mystery;
the
Keys
Past, and
The in
the Future."
Bible, with
an
all the
science of the Hebrews. The doctrine of religious Moses with that and the Prophets,identical at bottom of the ancient Egyptians,also had its outward meaning written books its veils. The Hebrew and were only the traditions; and recall to memory to they were the Profane. in written to symbols unintelligible The and the propheticpoems Pentateuch were merely and elementary books of doctrine, morals, or liturgy; traditional philosophy was the true secret only or the
written
Thus
was
afterwards, under
a
second
to,
or
rather,
author's) of the adept says, absurdities; a monument, monstrous is everything that the genius of philosophy wherein formed or ever and that of religionhave imagined surrounded of the sublime; a treasure by thorns; a concealed in a rough dark stone." diamond into is filled with admiration, on One penetrating the Sanctuary of the Kabalah, at seeing a doctrine so time, so absolute. so simple,and at the same logical, union of ideas and cration The signs, the consenecessary realities by the primfundamental of the most itive Letters, and characters; the Trinity of Words, found Numbers; a philosophysimple as the alphabet,proour
"
Christians;a collection,they
and
infinite as
the Word
; theorems
more
com-
246
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
plete and
Infinite
luminous up
can
than
those
of
on
summed which
ten
by counting
be
held
in
the
fant's in-
hand;
a
ciphersand
and
a
twenty-two
"
angle, triletters, a
are
square, of the
circle ;
these
are
all the
ments ele-
Kabalah.
the that
These
the
elementary
of
written
created
Word,
the
we
reflection
!
"
that
world
know,
indeed,
have
to
confess, how
doctrines
following look
we
in the
never
light of
the
Sanctuary
we
Kabbala, for
entered
it ;
know If my
only how
readers consult
"
they
wish
a
appear fuller
plain common
sense.
assortment,
they
have
only
that Rabbis
to
the volume
quoted.
does of
The wash
not
of truth have written, He sages his hands before eating, as the memory have where
blessed
into
a
ordained,
he
will be
no
transmigrated
rest, into
even as a
^
cataract, who
will have
murderer,
"
is also
water."
Literature.
Sit not down to fate, all ye unwashed. your table with unlaved hands, lest ye share the fate of murderers and be transmigrated into Niagara or some kindred
"
cheese,"
we
are
told,
"
or
serious sin; and very stated in the Zohar, section Mishpatim, that upon who is without scruple in this regard, an evil cheese will
rest
it is him
spirit
the
for
forty days;
no
his
^
soul
will
be
from
which spirit
1 2
has
holiness."
(Ibidem, p. 280.)
Kitzur
Kitzur
2. 2,
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
247
The
"
following
should trim
is
One
and
on
commence
should
at
nails
first,beginning
the thumb; and
fingerand
pare the
ending with
nails of the
then
right hand, beginning with the and thumb ending with the fourth finger;he should the following order: not 4th, 2nd, 5th, 3rd, ist, vary of the left hand; then the ist, 3rd, 5th, 2nd, 4th of the Never two (contiguous) fingers right hand. pare pairs after the other, for it is dangerous and it also imone
the memory. for The
reason
and
mystery
known
about
to
the
order
^ expert."
the
If any memory,
of
readers
have the
suffered
cause.
they
would
in the
know
memories
sooner
paring
Bro. the
they have, had they been instructed had kabbalistic mysteries and they avoided nails of two contiguous fingers!
himself
he
so
Pike
is not
unaware
of the
the
nature
of
Bible
as
which he p.
prefers to
will
Christian
us
himself
inform
Dogma,
"
741). Masonry," he
search
leads
"
says,
us
is
search
...
Light.
to
That
directlyback
and
the
Kabalah.
In that ancient
little understood
medley
come
of absurdity and
source
the philosophy,
of
understand
all the
Emanuel
1
many the
doctrines; and
Hermetic
Kitzur
2.
248
FREEMASONRY
AND
THE
BIBLE
Here,
leads from
therefore, kind
a
reader,
on
the
road
which
phy medley of absurdityand absurd philososhall leave the to the vagaries of Swedenborg, we initiate. American We prefer the road which leads from the Christian Bible to Jesus Christ.
We have not,
indeed, denied
but is not the
the
we
use
of
the
Book that
erence; rev-
Freemasonry,
Bible such
have of
proved
Masonic
object
the
"
object are
to
Bible, square,
as an
and
be
taken
inseparable
"
their
due
a
Masonic fact is
so a
if indeed
such
a
of the Bible give the passages have shown, importance." We evident needed demonstration, that and
not
a
Bible
Masonic is
Christian
its contents have shown the the
Bible,
are
book
nothing when
We
mutilated, rejected or
in solemn and of Masonic its bearer Masonic
distorted.
Constitutions. the
to
have
shown
on
that the
praisesgiven
Masons,
the books since of
Bible
nothing
the Bible
lipsof
one
Masonry
is
only
of
divine
revelation; with
exact
Koran,
texts
Vedas,
on
Zendavesta,
an
etc., the
We
stand
are
level.
have
robbed the
of
name
their
Christian
meaning by
We have
seen
suppressionof
by what of books is rejected. absurdities the authenticity the Bible disparaged when We have heard compared with the Kabbala, a book admitted even by Bro. Pike to be a medley of absurdities mingled with what he calls philosophy. It is even held to be an imperfect
form of this of the
same
of Christ.
Kabbala.
If this be
Masonic pray, is
erence rev-
Holy
what, Scriptures,
tempt con-
for them?
2SO
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
forgets that
and
he
sends
us
back
to
the the
Ancient
teries, MysKabwe as
pagan
we
and philosophies,
profound
content
bala; however,
are
Catholicity. ity CatholicAs, therefore, all these ancient religions, Truths for the time," the best included, are only that a race barism or country, according to its degree of baror imperfectenlightenment, is fitted to receive ; will not be offended, if any member Masonry, in its pity, Masonic after having admitted of such religions, of these further a dogmas, should make application with his peculiarfaith. dogmas in accordance We do not," says Bro. Pike, {Morals and Dogma, the importance of any Truth. p. 524), "undervalue be deemed irreverent word that can We utter no by
to
" "
know
faith. do of any We one any that it is only important for him is but
one was
not to
tell the
Moslem
God, and
his Messiah
two
wholly prophet. We
whom he thousand he
unessential do
not
was
tell the
Hebrew in Bethlehem
that
the
expects
born
nearly
a
heretic
we
because
years ago; and that he is will not so believe. And little as Christian
or
do
was
that his
Jesus
of Nazareth the
real un-
like us,
an
history but
revival
our
to
yond legend. To do either is belongs jurisdiction.Masonry, of no one age, beit finds its great all time ; of no one religion,
of all the
sees
older
truths
"
in all."
reverences
"
It
p.
525.
in
It
Jews,
of and
Confucius
Zoroaster,
in
Jesus
no more:
of
Nazareth, and
allows
ers Teach-
Morality, and
every
brother
Order
to
assign to
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
251
as
each
such and
higher
Truth
and
even
Divine
Character
his
Creed
"
Thus
"
disbelieves
so
no
truth, and
as
creed, except
far
lofty estimate of the to the level of the passions of Deity, degrade humanity, deny the high destiny of man, impugn the goodness and benevolence of the Supreme God, strike at those of Masonry, Faith, Hope, and great columns inculcate immorality, and disregardof the or Charity,
may Him active duties of the Order."
"
such
creed
its
Masonry teaches unbelief in no creed, except pay good attention,kind reader, to the exception. lowers the loftyMasonic first, idea of Catholicity, the Deity. Of the of whole mankind," says Bro. Pike, (Morals and Dogma, pp. 295, 296), "not one in ten thousand has any aspirations beyond the daily needs
"
of the gross animal life. In this age and in all others, all men countries,are born to except a few, in most be
mere
beasts
ox.
of
burden, co-laborers
and like
with in the
'
the
horse
'
and
the
civilized
lands, they
the side
of
animals
by
they toil. For them, God, Soul, words, without Spirit, Immortality,are mere any real God of nineteen-twentieths of the meaning. The is only Bel, Moloch, Zeus, or at best Christian world
Osiris, Mithras,
with
formulas.
as a or
Adonai, under
another
name,
shiped wor-
the
old
It is the the
and ritualistic Pagan ceremonies of Olympian Jove, worstatue shiped in the Christian
statue
Father,
Church
that
was
; it is the
of
the
There
is, of
course,
ears
Catholic
and
Christian
252 Pike
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
has
assui-ed of
us
that
the
Brotherhood It may be
irreverent
over-sensitive;so
The
as
any let
faith!
us
CathoHc down
admits
of
the
Hebrews
is Bro.
handed
What
Pike's
"
estimate
he Testament," Deity of the Old says (Morals and Dogma, p. 687, 688), "is everywhere ing represented as the direct author of Evil, commissionevil and lying spirits to men, hardening the heart and the iniquity ual of Pharaoh, of the individvisiting the whole sinner on people. The rude conception in the of sternness predominating over mercy alone for the human account sacrifices, Deity, can and Jephthah. purposed, if not executed, by Abraham It has the
not
The
been
uncommon,
men
world, for
without
. .
to
of
one
God,
forming
The
.
dignity.
modified In Hesiod
form, and
varies
in of
according to
the lowest
circumstances.
of human
malignity. infringement of
treason;
type
the
autocratic
even
litical po-
and
the
denounced penalties
for
often dictated rather seem worshiping other Gods by a jealous regard for his own greatness in Deity, than by the immorality and degraded nature of the worship itself." have We already quoted, in a preceding chapter,^ of the what Bro. Pike says (p. 207) of the early God abstain hence from and we Hebrews; repeatingthe quotation here ; He is angry, jealous,and revengeful, well as wavering and irresolute. He as
"
. . .
Supra,
pp.
147 sq.
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
253
shocking and hideous acts of crueltyand barbarity." Such the popular notions of the Deity," he were continues ; and either the priests had none better, or took Httle trouble these notions; or the to correct not popular intellect was enough enlarged to enable them mighty." to entertain higher conception of the Alany
performance
" " "
commanded
the
of the most
But
such and
were
not
the
ideas," he
adds,
"
of
the
intellectual It is certain
true
men
nature
and among
attributes of God
other and
"
; as
the
same
class of
did
nations,
Plato.
Zoroaster, Menu,
But their doctrines
Confucius, Socrates,
on
cate esoteric; subjectwere they did not communithem to the people at large,but only to a favored in Egypt and India, communicated few; as they were and
this
in Persia
Phoenicia, in Greece
and
Samothrace,
in
The Catholic to the initiates." mysteries, with with the mysteries, claims no relationship favored
Kabbalists, the
to
few.
the
It can,
therefore,
is
common
according
with of of of Moses
Bro.
Pike, and
God of
to
doctrine
to
Masonic
God.
"
authors, lay no
The is
edge knowland
Old level
degraded
humanity." He, for Masons, forms an to the other gods of antiquity. nies according to Masonry, deCatholicity, moreover, is Liberty, This destiny the high destinyof man. Equality, Fraternity. Bro. Pike, (Morals and Christianity,"says Dogma, p. 23), "taught the doctrine of Fraternity; ually Equality,by continbut repudiated that of political inculcatingobedience to Caesar, and to those
"
passions exception
254
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
the is
lawfully in authority. Masonry was of Equality. In the Monastery there equality,but no liberty. Masonry
and claimed for
man
first
added
also,
the
three-fold
heritage, Liberty,
"
Equality, and
"
Fraternity."
a
Truths," he says
which since that Man years
seen;
few
lines further
on,
are a
springs from
hundred
duties
a new
flow; and
Truth
it is but
to
began
be
and
not
they over
not
him.
Institutions,
all institutions.
They
he
for
development;
Free
for
them.
Free
ernment, GovFree
Thought,
.
Conscience,
had the
Speech! Masonry
.
"
Omnipotence
nor
of God could
"
on
that neither
Pope
Potentate
overcome
it."
(p. 24.)
is
never
The
"
thirst for
power
he says, satisfied,"
men nor
p.
ever
74.
have
It is insatiable.
Neither
Rome caused
was
themselves
be
gods.
the
The
Church
over
claimed
life from
soul, and
past and
matters
absolutions be infallible
to
of
Europe
to
it of
heretics.
and
It decimated Peruvians.
America
It
Mexicans
thrones; and
the
to
by
excommunication
to
closed
seek tive, cap-
gates of Paradise
Nations.
and of take the the
subjugate the
because
to
at
will of others
soul
it is the the
exercise
highest power,
ambition.
seems
be
highest object of
of all
human
It is
the bottom
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
255
of Rome
from and
"
that of
the A
own
Mesmer
to
that of the
Church
French man's
as
Republic."
Faith," he
tells
is.
"
us
p.
29,
is
as
much
his
as
his
Reason
His
as
Freedom
in his No
man
consists will
or
much
in his faith
being
.
free
. .
uncontrolled
by
be
men
power.
being body
decide
tenet
of
of have
men
can
authorized
as
to
what
other faith.
.
believe
man
to
any
Each
. .
must
necessarily
for
the
no
right
man
to
can
judge
have
of
their truth
himself;
because
to
any of
another
right
and
consequently
to
has
right, under
of belief.
any
"
cumstanc cirMan
punish
in
matter
never
had,"
says
the and
unexercised
Pike, p.
punish
our
another
we
his of
belief. faith.
the have of
Born If
we
in
Protestant
land,
eyes
at
that
had of
opened
St.
to
the
we
light under
should
shadows
been
Peter's
Rome,
in the
devout
we
Catholics; born
should
have
Jewish quarter
Christ
as an
contemned
we
Aleppo, impostor;
'
in il
Constantinople,
Allah,
God is
should and
have
Mahomet
cried
is his
Allah
great
prophet.'
Few faith. give us our because the believe in any religion they have examined of its authenticity, and made formal evidences a up one weighing the testimony. Not judgment, upon knows in ten thousand man anything about the proofs We believe what of his faith. we are taught; and
education
those
are on
most
fanatical
who
know
least
.
of
.
the
.
dences eviIt is
which
their creed
is based.
256
an
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
imperativelaw
as
of
God's
Economy,
man
unyielding and
accept wiihout
he his he is born
nature
inflexible
Himself, that
belief of faith
to
shall
question
and
the
those
so
among
a
whom
reared; the
the
the
made
part of
the
contrary; and
of his
own
will
believe dis-
evidence
senses,
rather up
than in
yieldup
Pike
was
belief religious
bone
which
has
grown
of his bone."
case
the
in which far
belief unas
punished,so
one
the born
Catholic outside
concerned, when
was
pale. She has ever held that over those who not are baptized she had no jurisdiction. She punished only in case of obstinate apostacy : and cates this,too, is the case with Masonry, which excommunimembers them whom it considers false to The about economy
it, and
ishes pun-
Pike's
and and
inflexible
law
of
accept
without whole for the
which
we
receive
only individuals
faith, sometimes
What
worse.
but
have
changed
for flesh of
"
better, sometimes
its
the
bosh bone
of
about their
becoming
bone."
"
Masonry,"
of
he
tells
us
again,p. 164,
ruthless and
"
sees
with
of
the
the
sexes
extermination
their misfortune
or
know
to
worship
him
under
the
by
the It
and Joshua. troops of Moses savage the persecutions of Peter and Paul, the sees of
dom martyr-
Stephen,
the
trials then
of in
Justin and
Irenasus; and
258
fore
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
the
degree
became
was a mere
proscribed,and, ceasing
brief and formal the tomb the
to
be
worked,
under after
ceremony,
another
name.
Now,
he of his
from
in which howls
his murders
successors
rotted, Clement
Fifth
against the
of of Pio the Nono dead
The ghosts against the Free-masons. Templars haunt the Vatican and disturb of the paralyzed Papacy, which, dreading
out
dead,
shrieks
its excommunications It is
a
and
potent im-
anathemas of war,
to
tion declara-
and
needed
to
arouse
apathy
and
ertness in-
action."
may is be said of
Whatever
one some
the
preceding quotation,
had
more
thing
of
^
certain, Bro.
Brethren of this
at
Pike would
sense
than
a
his But
to
who
we
make in
our
Pio
Nono
Mason.
not
shall treat
next
break,
of
our
But,
after
all, what
of the old !
reminiscence
sort
of
we
which
The
celebration
of the
teries Myspp.
monies cere-
Mithras," he says
"was
were
542),
used
also the
same.
found
all
Church,
the breath
promised
the
of confession
of the
happiness or the oblation of bread, image resurrection. The dren, baptism of newly-born chilof sins, all beextreme unction, confession
"
Cf.
pp.
The
402-405 ?
"
Catholic
"
13,
Were
Fortnightly Benedict
Review,
XIV and
Vol. Pius
XIII,
IX
reproduced
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
259
was
longed to the Mithriac rites. The by a speciesof baptism,a mark his forehead, he offered bread and certain mysterious words." In what language, Bro. Pike,
of
candidate
was
fied puri-
were
Mysteries
Mithras
of your
called
mass?
to
the
mass
by
a
all
referring etymologists
as
from
the
Latin
"
missa,"
word
that has
no a
existence
technical
in the pure
to
Latin
tongue.
as
It is
word
proper the
and, Catholicity,
how
as can
such, is
admitted. universally
ceremonies when rites? the
are
And
same
those in the do
differ
different
not
use
The
Catholics
as
ceremonies
among the Brother
the
Latins
are
do;
not
Latins,
the
ceremonies
are
the
same.
No,
the
Pike, you
your
deliberately imposing
of
an
ignorance of
sacraments
Brethren, when
travesties
Catholic
you the
that there was Everybody knows the from the beginning between and this, as a lover Catholicity, cannot forgive. The you very from
the
life-blood of the
Church,
and
different
itself is from the Church as anything pagan The [Freemasonry and originof each paganism. Dr. (Encyclopcedia,p. Christianity], Mackey says dissimilar." their histories are 162) "is different; in seeking thus to Bro. Pike had But a purpose
"
"
make
the for
Catholic
in the
Church
modification
of
of
Mithrathere
ism;
"
higher degrees
ed.
Masonry,
Herder
Cf.
B.
1906. Pages
S8ff.
26o
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
are
various much is
"
matters
which,
travesties
to
on
be
more
than Catholic
moderate,
Church. Bro. itation im-
smack There
of
the
Mackey
"
Masonic
of the What
are
Christian the
sacrament.^
of
"
? asks Bro. purification make to us Pike, perfect Masons ? necessary {Morals and Dogma, pp. 538, 539). Lavation with or water, "baptism,"he pure cal because to cleanse the body is emblematianswers ; it conduces to of purifying the soul; and because and virtue is the health of the soul, as the bodilyhealth, sickness : its malady and sin and vice are unction, set are or thereby we anointing with oil; because to the service and priesthood of apart and dedicated
symbols
"
"
"
"
"
the of
"
the
Good
"
and truth."
robes
candor, purity,and
he
us,"
continues, "the
of
"
ultimate
fraternal
The
symbol regeneration?"
"
chief
of
bread
and
come
which
nourishes, and
all mankind
;
which
refreshes is to
which
great
these
no
harmonious lessons is
:
brotherhood
that
as
and
matter
great
singleatom
nihilated, an-
that the far suppose to exist beyond the grave : died before of the
ever us
many
to be
thousands
have
jointowners
our
with
ourselves
might particles
forms ancient
that compose
new
mortal and
combinations;
the
dead, the
1
patriarchsbefore
case
since
"
the
flood, the
City
For
recent
of
"
Masonic
Baptism
Review,
see
the
Catholic
Fortnightly
vol.
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
261
into wind and
kings
their
over
and
common
people
elements,
of
are
constituent
all
continents, and
the of
continuallyenter
of
new
form
new man
part of
bonds
that
we
habitations
and
souls, creating
between each And
sympathy
and in
brotherhood
race.
lives and
eat,
thus, in the
drink
bread
wine
we
to-night,
may
of
us
our (italics
the identical
author's) enter into and form part of matter that once formed particles
bodies
called
Moses,
In the of
Confucius,
the
truest
Plato, Socrates,
sense
or
Jesus drink
of
the
a
Nasareth. bodies
we
eat
and
of
some
dead; and
our
cannot
or
say
that
there
is
single atom
which
blood
soul
other
our
readers
are
informed
that
this is called
Communion
of
bread
the
understand
"
Consecrated
Mackey,
(Encyclopedia,p. 126), "that is to say, bread and wine used not simply for food, but made sacred by the of brotherhood, and of symbolizing a bond purpose called sometimes the eating and drinking of which are
the
some
'
Communion
of the
of
the
Brethren,' is
in the Order the
"
found of
in
higher degrees,as
in the
High
Croix
in
Priesthood
of the the
American Scottish
we
Rite, and
Rites." eat, and this
*
Rose
French
and
And
thus
(consecrated)bread
wine
we
in the
crated) (conseof
the
drink
(in
Communion
form into and enter Brethren'), to-night, part may that once formed of matter of us the identical particles called Jesus of body parts of the material
. . .
Nazareth. bodies
In
the truest
sense
we
eat
and
drink
the
of the dead."
262
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
things,there are those who would persuade us that there is nothing antiCatholic in American Freemasonry. Let us now turn to Christianity. Masonry, as we have seen, reveres equallyall the and Confucius, Mahomet, great reformers, Buddha, Christian soul which is not satisThe fied Jesus Christ. with this must be squeamish indeed. But if this is not enough. Masonry will widen the bounds of its have and tolerance, as we pity those who, seen, having a nobler faith proposed to them, the pure faith
of the
And
Kabbala,
darkness dunces
are
to
grope
their
way
in the
"
of who
The
by substitutingfaith
the who
a war
for
fantastic
so
for the
of
for
many
and the inquisitors reality; warred against Magism in shrouding succeeded of the human p.
in
darkness
discoveries and
(Morals
Dogma,
to
so
that
we
now
find
key
of the
phenomena
degree
Are
satisfied with
pity? Then
upon
will look
Knight of the Rose Croix," says Bro. Pike (Morals and Dogma, will revere the memory of Him who taught p. 310), it ['the New Law,' 'the Word,' i. e. Love], and those who look indulgentlyeven on assign to him a his own character far above or belief, even conceptions to the extent of deeming him Divine." believes too the story of Creation as Christianity given in Genesis; the fall of man by the temptation
true
"
if you believe what Christ Himself " And i. e., that he is Divine. every
Masonry in indulgently
believe,
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
263
Serpent; the realityof Satan's personality; the revelation of God to the Jews; all of which and more things,Masonry denies. many had Man fallen," says Bro. Pike (Morals and Dogma, p. 278), "but not by the tempting of the
"
of
the
serpent.
deemed
For, with
to
as
the
of
Phoenicians,the serpent
the Divine
was
was
partake
he
was
Nature,
and
deemed to be Egypt. He was immortal, unless slain by violence, becoming young again in his old age, by enteringinto and consuming Hence the Serpent in a circle,holding his himself. tail in his mouth, was emblem of Eternity. With an the
a
sacred,
in
head
of
hawk
sun.
he
was
of
one
Divine Sect
Nature, and
Gnostics brazen the the
symbol
him
of the
Hence
of the
took
for their
good genius,and
Moses in the
hence
on
serpent reared
Israelites looked kind
by
Desert,
the
which live
and
lived." Cast
Would
you
ually, spirit-
sillystory of of life, Eve's temptation. The Serpent is a principle the of immortality, of Divinity. Accept therefore devoured pretty fable, not of the Kilkenny cats who
reader? aside
each Irish
other, but
that
of
the
old
fable
on
which
the
tire. legend is founded, the serpent eating itself enpent the Ophites who Imitate worshiped the Serwill you Thus God. approximate the true as worship of God. sco"f at the Augurs," says Bro. Pike again, We
"
"
p.
to
102.
It is
so
comprehend. centuries, to illuminate without Light for two score of Palestine,and a brutal, ignorant, only a little corner and people?" No, Bro. Pike; God ungrateful without light for those two did not leave the world poured it with greater centuries, though He score
difficult well easy to scoff, and so Did the Deity leave the whole world
264
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
abundance His
corner
upon
the in
as same
He
sent
Divine
of
even
Son,
times,
to
the
little
Palestine, with
personal
message would
of salvation,
though
a
the
people of Judaea
which
put that
Son
to
shameful
death.
But
the
on Jewish religion,
based, could
Bro.
not
have
been
Pike, because
it varied
age,
filed deit
by
came
"
contact
with
the
pagan
creeds
with
which
in touch. The
religiontaught by Moses," he says (Morals and Dogma, which, like the laws of Egypt, p. 247), enunciated the principle of exclusion, borrowed, at period of its existence, from all the creeds with every which it came in contact. While, by the study of the
"
learned admirable
and
wise, it enriched
the
itself
with
the
most
pagan
in the
manners
religionsof Egypt and the wanderings of the People, most impure or seductive in and one superstitions.It was
Moses and and
thing
those of able
"
times and
of
Aaron,
another
in
of David and
Solomon,
Bro.
in those is also
Daniel
to
Philo."
Scripture. in Genesis," he The two trees (Encyclosays those of Life and Knowledge, were pcedia, p. 1017), and from the Egyptian and were probably drawn
"
throw
light on
Christian
Zoroastrian
taken in the
stories.
But
no
'
further of the
reference
'
is after
Bible
to that
of
the
Tree
or
Knowledge
'
of Life,
which
gives
the
in
name
the
is also
Pillar;
and
when
carved
or Lingam inscriptions,
266
ITS
RELATION
TO
CATHOLICITY
tianity.
the anterior
Its
symbols
that. Its
and
its and
legends
from
comes
are
derived
from
even
Solomonic
to
Temple
its faith
the from
people
the
one
religion
was
ancient of Noah
were
priesthood;
and his
a
that
primitive
If the
descendants.
Masonry Jew
and could But
simply
Moslem,
institution,
and of the its In
at
the
not
Buddhist,
illumination.
its
of
ligions re-
its
language
men
citizens
of every all
its altar
kneel;
its creed
of disciples
faith
subscribe."
Yes,
have
to
indeed,
into
any
a
who
grave
believe
error;
Masonry
any who have the its known and the
Christian
fallen
Christianize of
it, should
have
Christianizing paganism
Dr.
worship.
"
Mackey
is
condones
fault, because
"
it
is instinctive. The
feeling
to
an
instinctive
one," he
of
says,
our
longing be-
the hence in it
noblest
we
aspirations
find
human
nature;
and
Christian
Masonic
writers
excess,
indulging
and,
to
an
unwarrantable sectarian
by
the
extent
of
interpretations,
character of p.
materially
the
affecting
cosmopolitan
is
to
Institution."
When It
{Encyclopaedia paganism
is
of Freemasonry,
of,
excess
163.)
spoken
is
never
mentioned.
only
not
Christianity Masonry
to
that
Masonry
un-
objects.
is, as
Christianity
does
to
is the
sectarian,
cosmopolitan,
we
belong
ancient
system:
have
shown,
unmasonic.
CHAPTER
XIII
Were
Benedict
XIV
and
Pius
IX
Freemasons?
"
But
how,"
and popes could be
it will
be
asked,
"
if
Masonry
Catholic
be
so
anti-Catholic
and popes
even
anti-Christian,
have
could of
bishops
If
to
been
members
the
Craft?
Masons,
So
in in
ordinary
New
Catholics
a
ought
zine magaargues
be
allowed."
the
Age,
D.
Masonic
a
published
in
"
Washington,
for
C,
pp.
writer
82.
the We
January
have
number
not
1905,
81,
the
slightest prejudice
he
"
against regard
of
the its
Roman
condemnation of
Catholic
of
Church,"
says
as
we
Freemasonry
nature
the of
result the
rance igno-
the
true
and in
aims his
fraternity.
It
is
related that
the
by
Lenning
after of
German XIV
his
Freemason's
Lexicon,
Pope
Benedict
had
firmed con-
Bull
Pope
Clement
one
XII,
of
to
predecessor,
a
against
the
Freemasons,
induced
A
his be
courtiers,
ous zeal-
Freemason,
into
the
him
privately initiated
named
Order.
an
Roman
at
Mason
Tripolo
into
livered dethe of
address it is
a
the that
Pope's during
and
reception
the latter
Order,
his
cease
and
fact
part
pontificate,
to
the
enlightened
the
liberal thus
Pope
did
persecute
to
:
Freemasons,
statements."
lending
strong
support
Lenning's
Again
"
Pope
Nordez,
Pius of
IX
was
Freemason,
and of
if
Bishop
the
Le
Dijon,
is
really 267
member
fra-
268
BENEDICT
XIV
AND
PIUS
IX
he ternity,
has
own
only
followed
the lead
of
high dignitaries
of his And
"
Church." conclusion:
the the
not
"
If
bishops
of the
can same
be
Masons,
should
Church
society?
to Protestants, who plausible misunderstand entirelythe relation of the Pope to The therefore so : Catholicity Pope has done Catholic is no for the may." There argument any Catholic in this. that Popes Every Catholic knows and do sin grievously. Bishops may wrong: may May Catholics, therefore, with good conscience, do ? The the same Evidently not. guide of the Catholic
The
argument
"
seems
"
conscience he in in of of teaches
is not
as a
what
the
Pope does;
nor
even
what teaches
privateperson; but what he Vicar his publiccapacity of Jesus Christ. as have all Pontiffs who their publiccapacity, it in the Freemasonry have condemned
terms
:
Now,
spoken
clearest
are
and
plainerand
Pius IX. Catholic
none
XIV
and of
These
the
guide, then,
not consciences,
the
personalactions
the
two
of either
pontiff.
But
when
one as
considers
selected
by
at
the Craft
members,
of the
he
cannot
be astonished
the blindness
Brethren.
a
Mackey,
to
different character
Lenning does. He the Doctor, (Enwas distinguished," says his learning and was a cyclopcsdia, p. 113), "for
of the arts great encourager however, an implacableenemy issued
on
and of
sciences.
secret
He
was,
the
i8th
of
May,
1751,
his celebrated
BENEDICT
XIV
AND
PIUS
IX
269
renewing
which
has
and
perpetuating that
the in
of
his
predecessor
The Bull tor Docwas
excommunicated
erred
Freemasons."
the date. The 28th.*
sHghtly
signed May 13th and published May But though a slight has crept error
account
as
regards
Pontiff's the
the
date, there
of
is
the in
sentiments.
year
a
The
Bull
lished publasted
eleventh
years,
reign
which
only
and
seventeen
when
the is what
eight months, and sixteen days, Pope was alreadyseventy-six years old.
Benedict XIV
says
"
Here
in his memorable
condemnation.
"
that
and for taken the
might be asserted overlooked something had been carelessly by us, that we the more take away the food easily may lying calumny and close its mouth, having first
says, counsel
Lest
however,"
he
it
with
of the
some
of
our
venerable
brethren,
we
Cardinals
to
Holy
these be
to
Roman
Church,
have
decided which
confirm
by
the
our
ample of all most efficacious,the preceding Constitution which, word for word, we have predecessor,
in
our
is considered
own;
in
as
much
as
of
our
own
certain
Apostolic knowledge and by the fulness of our own by the tenor of these letters,in everythingand power, lished as just as if they had been pubregards everything,
of and
renew
our our
own own
initiative, we,
will
in
our
own
name,
by
such
Constitution, and
have
perpetualforce
This Mason.
1
^ efficacy." is the Pontiff whom Lenning would in specific form confirms Benedict
make the
con-
Bullarium
'^Bullarium
Benedicti Benedicti
270 demnation
word for
BENEDICT
XIV
AND
PIUS
IX
of his
word;
it
examination, he,
the age of perpetual;and yet, between seventy-sixand eighty-two, a certain Mason, with makes various makes other him
a
Pontiff
and
"
When,
The solemn
"
where,
and
how,
poeticfancy may
never
supply.
"
condemnation Benedict
"
is
But," says the writer, it is a leaving it so. the fact that during the latter part of his pontificate, to persecute enlightened and liberal Pope did cease the Freemasons, thus lending strong support to Lenthe writer What understands ning's statements." of Benedict's the latter part fess conpontificate we by able to fathom. We should not we are imagine from that so strong a document of seventy-six, a man
dies
" "
six
years
before
demise
at
the
advanced
age
of
the "latter" near sufficiently eighty-two, was part of his reign. We are glad that Bro. Mackey had of his readers, than more regard for the intelligence
to
make
Benedict
XIV
The
same
Germany," says John Gilmary Shea, in his Life of Pope Pius IX, pp. 291, and they thought that by putting the scene in 292, clared detection. America, they would They deescape that Pius IX had been received into positively cited his discourses, Masonic a lodge in Philadelphia, that a number declared of his autographs were and preserved in the lodge. Unfortunately for the story, Philadelphiais in the civilized world. People there and found that could read and write. They examined Masonic there was no lodge in that cityby the name had given; they found that no lodge in Philadelphia
"
It
started
BENEDICT received
of his
XIV
AND
PIUS
IX
271 find
was
ever
John Mary
ever
Mastai; they
been
could he
never
no
trace
no
having
of that
there, as
whole refuted
lodge
had
themselves
any attested
his
The
from
not to
slander
thus
has
time
to
specifythe lodge or citytoo distinctly." The fabled time of the Pope's initiation long antedates the famous allocution of Sept. 25, 1865, and the elevation of John Mary Mastai even to the papal
throne.
can
But
what from
consolation
any
of Pius is
the IX
Brethren
to
gather
a
imagining Pope
of the Masonic
have
prehension. com-
been
member
Order
beyond
"Among by says,
"
the which
to
many
the the ruin
wiles
enemies Church and
and of of
arts," he
the
himself
name
Christian
are
wont
assail
to
God,
and, though
be
doubtedly un-
vainly,endeavor
of society and
men
numbered.
which
Venerable
is
the
common
ruin
of
And
and of the the
later :
We
condemn
nature
same
we
wish
that
or
by
all
degree
dignity,
throughout the whole world, such societies be held as the same reprobated and condemned by us, under in the above-mentioned penaltiesas those contained of our Constitution predecessors." The of Masons that Pius IX contention belonged to the Craft, far from favoring their cause, is its most crushing condemnation; for it closes absolutelyevery
272
BENEDICT
XIV
AND
PIUS
IX
loophole solemnly
as
who so pretending ignorance in him and sonry Mapublicly and scathingly denounced Church and of humanity, the enemy of God's for the condemnation the pronouncement of what it
was
makes
of
one
"
he the
spoke :
enemy
of
as
society as
the
true
constituted;
God.^ claims?
no
the
brother
Pike, in
with The
passage
that
Bro.
fraternity
the
demnation con-
Age
on on
has
excused of
Church
the
score own
ignorance.
part.
have Bro.
lightened en-
We Pike
fear
the
his
p.
50)
could
"
Because of
was
Masonry,
and
unemasculated,
bore
the
banners
"
and
tyranny,
edict of forbade XII.
Rights," he says, in rebellion against temporal and spiritual its Lodges were proscribed in 1735, by an
Equal
States in of Holland. In his In
Freedom
the them
1737,
Bull
Louis
XV.
France. them
was
1738, Pope
of
issued
against
which the
famous
renewed Council of
by
Benedict also
XIV.;
scribed pro-
and
in
1743, them."
Berne
He
does
justify it authority of
1
deny the fact of rebellion; he seeks to and temporal by stigmatizing the spiritual
not
the
time
as
tyrannous.
feelingly
and nounced deuttered
In
solemn
to
referred
the
"
allocution, on April 20, 1849, Pius IX with connecting him Masonry, rumor
the
it
as
blackest
of
all
calumnies
"
ever
against
Der
but his sacred much-maligned person. Gotze der Humanitdt. Freiburg 1875, pp.
(Cf. Pachtler,
721-722).
274
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
graphically reported
A.
the
proceedings.
known
on
Bro.
Edwin
Sherman,
Master
33 of
", well
the
Pacific No.
Slope,
Wise
Gethsemene
Chapter,
Consul
5, Rose
Croix, presided.
Bro. Alexander made the K.
Coney 32",
After
General
of
callingattention to the responsibility of Gethsemene Chapter in accepting the heart of Bro. Herrera stating that y Cairo, and strike Masonry is no anvil, and that, if struck, it must the grand principleof the back ; after enunciating for every man his own to form right of conscience of religiousbelief without any dictation of any priest kind whatsoever" he to on (p. 14) any goes We picture the imminent dangers to our country. are perhaps," he says, "to a terrible struggle near,
Mexico,
address.
"
" " "
"
that
power
which
from
Rome
ran
riot
over
the
of
for that
dictates
was
of
and Southern Europe, Spanish America the right to believe, to believe,or to claim men they could worship God according to the their own consciences, was dangerous. It for all true
men
to
ally themselves
to
with
government.
.
They
.
had
do
that,
or
be
nihilated. an-
"
There
no
were
one
no
Protestant
teach different It
men
teachers creeds
was
in from
that that
country,
which had
to
been
taught
But
them.
natural, spontaneous
who
were
down.
tered, fet-
the
rack, the
such
a
tion, Inquisisystem
we
Under
man
this
noble
whose
memory all
here
the the
our
genera-
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
275
How
true
tions
to
to
come
to
our
brethren."
(p. 15).
Coney's pictureis the reader may judge by the opening paragraphs of the life of Bro. Herrera y Cairo, given on pamphlet. p. 3 of this same "In 1821, in the city of Guadalajara,State of Jalisco, Republic of Mexico, Ygnacio Herrera y Cairo
was
facts
Bro.
born," it says.
the
"
His of
father, Anacleto
Masons
in the
Herrera,
Republic of Mexico after its declaration of Separation and soon him Independence of Spain; and from ceived Ygnacio rethe inspirationof liberty,equality and ternity. fraAt
founded
first
lodge
by by
death the
the age of twelve years, he lost his father then and entered the seminary which was
under his
direction
of the his of
to application
the
attention games
given
to
the
of the
boys,
kept
self him-
all his
and
esteem
lovable
dispositionof
character, the
and from
for his
and
poor,
which and
he
demonstrated
practically by
charityto the sick and needy. He the ignorant of their rights was constantlyinstructing of thought and and duties; teaching freedom speech in religious tolerance and was matters, and therefore spected worshipped by this class of his fellow citizens and reof his own station, but was by the intelligent feared by the clergy and their partisans. The clergy their side, making him did everything to attract to him fused." most were always retempting offers which
attention
Where
were
torments,
the
In-
276
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
time ?
But
Brother
so
hearers, and
he knew
to
he
what with
be untrue.
by the Chaplain of the Lodge, Bro. Chas. E. Gillett, lowed, Chapter, fol33", Secretaryof Gethsemene then a few words by Bro. Sherman, when the the heart of Bro. Herrera to contain jar which was uncovered in the East. Above the jar was was a portraitof the Brother, and still above that, were
prayer three
"
life-sized busts.
It is but the
making
now
"
before
what, you
witness the
there
was
see
the
martyrs.
at
right is Coligny, who Massacre of St. Bartholomew; of William the Silent, who was own Gerard; in the centre our
President, Abraham
On
murdered
the that
Jesuit martyred
of
Lincoln, who
victim
long-beforesworn
one
who
was
himself taken
of the Jesuits killed by treachery was a Jesuit. The Jesuitcharm or frorri Booth's
medal in the
neck, and
is to be
seen
Judge Washington.
before when he
was
Advocate It
was
a as a
General's
office in the
city of
Jesuitplot formed
candidate
a
five years
ever
for
the
Presidency,
he
was
marked
victim
all Scottish against whom (P- I7-) venting he actually Bro. Sherman, when to ingets down no mean Strange, history,shows power. much about Jesuitplotsand isn't it, that he knows so their connection with one of the most crimes dastardly of history,and yet keeps his knowledge concealed within the recesses of the Lodge ? passing Strange
"
strange
knows
"
if true ; and be
if.false, as
is to
the
whole
world
it to
false,what
be
thought
of such
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
277
of those who
assertions
make and
made
and
listened
to, and
applaud
H.
them?
Bro.
Joseph
Veterans' been
of
"
the
Pacific
Coast,
ren My Masonic Brethand services lady friends : The very interesting of this occasion are well calculated to make a profound mind. impressionupon every Masonic They bring before us the fundamental self, of Masonry itprinciples truth and as a refuge and defense of religious and source freedom. They also indicate the principal virulence of the antagonism against the truth. Our enemies our accuse especially Papal enemies der slanMasonry of teachingAtheism, but this gratuitous is contradicted by the entire historyand ritual of find sublimer the Order. Where will you tion recogniof the Great First Cause than in Masonry? No the threshold of a Lodge without man can cross acknowledging his trust in God." A real Mason," he continues, acknowledges of conscience to none He is the great but God. fealty soul, and our highestfeeling Lawgiver to the human It is an impertinence and a of obligation is to Him. to dictate what we priesthood tyranny for any human
. . .
" "
having
introduced,said
"
"
must
believe which is
so
and
do.
It is
to
on
this
account
over
that
science con-
Popery,
where
even
assumes
have
dominion
its
unto
How
many
of
our
brethren and
have
to
been
burned in
the
stake, or
tortured
starved
be cannot dungeons of the Inquisition until the judgment day ! known with the thoughts flatter ourselves We not must which that the lightof civil and liberty, religious in our land, has penetrated shines so brightly so own
death
the
"
"
278
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
of
the Rome
letter of
to
from
'
the
Grand
too
Orient
true
of
Bro.
It
is but
that
endeavoring
the
our
icy
breath
of
Reaction
Science
and. of
the cost of
Liberty, which
enormous
lightedat
face of
sacrifices,
now
'
keeps alive in all parts of the world.' Papacy, having gone astray from the pure and genuine source is fightingnowadays against Masonry of Christianity with in Italy,where increasingaudacity,especially that Papacy keeps alive a revolt againstthe established order, in a permanent attempt to ruin the unity and "... of the country.' integrity said to have Bro. Wyatt then relates an occurrence taken place in Mollendo, Peru, and continues: It is another example of the hatred of Rome The old virus can and truth. be never againstliberty changed, and it will be well for us in the United States with the to hand conflict if we escape from a hand freedom." Papacy for the retention of our own Now, candidly, Bro. Wythe, do you believe all this the purpose of burning your What nonsense? was Masonic Brethren at the stake or bothering them with the Inquisition, when, in those days. Masonry commanded its members to belong to the Church of the Read sonic they lived? Mackey's Macountry in which Ritualist (p.244), and the quotationis also found But elsewhere. though in ancient times Masons of were charged in every country to be of the religion
. . .
dreadful
dangers,
and
"
"
that
country
more
or
nation, whatever
it was,
it is
to
now
thought
expedientonly to obligethem
the
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
279
in which all men religion lar agree, leavingtheir particuWhere all the danger, opinions to themselves." was and etc., etc., of which speak? courage, you Where
was
your
boasted
freedom
to
of
conscience,when
the
Masonry charged
was
its members
belong to
And
religion
mere
it was.
if this affiliation
was
hypocrisy.
After had
James L. Cogswell, President pro tern., with a token of appreciapresented Bro. Sherman tion from the Brethren, the hymn, Hail Masonry
"
Bro.
Divine,"
that The
was
sung.
The
form
differs somewhat
from
214,
printed in Mackey's
first two Here
stanzas
are
Masonic
are
Ritualist, pp.
the
same,
verses
215.
the
then
comes
on
difference.
some
of the
sung
"
We'll
Thine From
build
Altars
thy Temples
here
secure
sure
foul
hand.
We'll
strong and
State
great,
"
Bulwarks
of
Freedom's
(p. 23.)
arations, prepfor.
delay in
to
the
banquet-room
then called
the In the
course
response
toasts
was
32",
"
Colonel
President
A., in
James responding to
States," said
G.
C.
Lee,
toast,
the
:
The
"
of the United
long as the President of the United States is a what party he comes. from need not care we patriot, for I Patriotism coupled with Masonry earth higher than that of Maof no religion know on
So
"
28o
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
"
coupled
any
with
that,
. .
our
country
"
will stand
President."
.
to
the toast,
"
The The
President
Wise is not ter Mashere.
Mexico."
Bro. The
then The
next
follows: is
'
Caswell
Twenty-Seven Regular Supreme Councils of the Thirty-third Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, With All Their Subordinates Throughout the World.' I wish to say, in addition, that throughout South and Southern America, Mexico Europe, that is the only Masonry that is known, and all the maritime send representatives Grand to Lodges of Blue Masons from those Supreme Councils, and receive representatives for they are grand lodges within their own diction." juris(p.25). who doubt the unity Those of Freemasonry throughout the world, might meditate for a few moments on
regular toast
Bro.
Sherman's
words.
Freemasonry of
Globe,"
Bro.
All Rites W.
Amasa
Most
Wise
Master persons
and
to to
Friends, I
think
it
hardly
knowing
"
what
they
are
ideas,at least."
Then born
"
toast
the
Heavenly
being
have
that
worship God accordingto the dictates of with no one Do this or to say our own consciences, Do that under the penaltyof torture. There is one the face of the globe where land on freedom in its and I believe that greatest and highestglory exists, with the aid of Masonry that is universal, this freefreedom
'
'
'
'
282 knows
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
that what
in fact?
you
assert
has not
the
dation founslightest
ings sadlylackingin all the bless; it forgetsthat the first example of you enumerate olics tolerance in America was religious given by the Cathtoleranc of Maryland, a tolerance sadly repaid by the inated; tolerof those that had been so charitably
Chapter
is
giving us,
and
if tolerance
was
embodied
in
our
own
stitution, Con-
by
of
France,
pendence inde-
and
have been never probability, students of American history gained,was, as impartial admit, an important factor. The proximity, willingly desired, was too, of Catholic Canada, whose friendship
must not
money, would, in
without all
such
be overlooked.
We
have
no
wish
to
broadmindedness
not
empty
words.
Bro. Grand
one
William Master
S.
of the
Moses,
Grand
VisitingBrethren, who, in virtue of his and the experienceof forty-four years as a Mason, offices that he had well fitted to express was filled, other things: Masonic sentiments,said among
"
of
the
coming
men
events
"
cast
set sun-
fore. be-
I shall not
see
it,
but
there
will
"
I the
see
able inevit-
conflict
and has
to
forces of freedom
tyranny that
be called
you
now
terrible
When
shall do so, remember that old you foresaw the event far in the distance and
"
so
very
far.
men,
You
young
when
the
time
comes
buckle
on
PEEP
INTO
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283
let the
firm
your
armor
and
take
Scottish
and less fear-
Masonry
you
stand
foremost
in that
there
brethren freedom
great struggle on
a war
which
and
will be
defend
of American
citizens to babe."
protect
wife
and
(Applause)
(P- 30The
war
(?)
(?)
after.
^
of American
liberties
The
world
knows
and
end. ignobler after lauding Bro. Moses Holliday, the of Masonic as acme character, and expressing the delight he felt at seeingthe Brother full present of life and full of manly energy, full of vivacity, full of love for that Masonic Order," tells patriotism, in the anxiety his hearers that he does not participate and liberties, gives his expressed about American
" " "
Bro. Samuel
W.
reason.
"
mean
why,"
there
he says
are
(p. 32).
numerous
our
"
I do
not
not
enemies
There dom, freeland
setting traps
are
our
liberties and of
our
welfare.
deadly enemies of such, but I tell you that so long as you stand by the virtues of Masonry, so long as you sustain the public schools (here the by vigorousand long-sustained speakerwas interrupted safe. member Reliberties are applause),just so long our
is full of
that."
111. Bro.
James
and
B.
Master
of
Ceremonies
"
Grand
The
Grand his
on
^The
A.
P.
284
him, and
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
then
coming
to
we
the
have
forth
at
length in
"
I stand
our
before
that
you Rite
we
."
.
he
says,
to
state
in
politics.We
allow
tish something; that as Scotacknowledge no superiorto the of religion and in matmatters ters have pledged ourselves that we and we or any body of men
means
"
made
this
earth, that
no
man,
body of men, has any rightto dictate to us conduct ; that no body of men our or religious political has any rightor ever had any right to explainto us the that book be authorityof our book of faith,whether
the
or
Pentateuch, the
the Koran. No any
two
man or
body
of
men
was
ever
missioned com-
them for superiorpower to interpret Each should for himself, of us us. interpretthem and according as we them we are obliged to interpret has the We claim that no act. man or body of men conduct. edge acknowlWe rightto influence our political We vote no of according to the principles party. who Scottish Rite Masonry, and the man belongs to
by
the
Scottish
Rite
and the
was
does
not
do
so
violates every
the Union this
iirst to
in
one
the
thirty-third, every
of
State
where the one question before the people was year schools ; and the two the questionof the common great
partiesof that State vied with each other in political at the foot of the Roman despotism, cringing down than the other, to throw cles obstaeach trying, one more in the path of the common schools, to make war against them, and the party which in that State made of devotion to the Roman the strongest profession
PEEP
INTO
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285
And
he
has
left the
with
room,
us
"
is not
afraid;
who and
to
he
does
sympathize
our
who
fear, and
know
that
that it is
the
the greatest
to have elections,
controlled entirely
up for
our common
by
those
persons
common
who
will
stand
schools, our
that stands schools of
our religion,
common
honor,
that the
our common one
of party, irrespective
that
our
all may
know
and
are
country
These fornia Cali-
votes.
the
sentiments
Consistory of
of which
I have
be the Grand
the
common
system
no
to
be of
identified
ours
with
its and
own
liberalism,
comment
Read
How
free
and
unfettered
a
judge
proud or body
"
blare of
men
"
of
the shall
control the
as same
our
vote
or
dictate how
we
and
in
breath
are
you
vote
you
sworn
accordingto
you
Scottish
from
Masonry
violate
the
of them." thirty-third, every one and not a man Ah ! but these are principles, or body of fuge, men! True, but it is an unworthy and paltrysubterif there were no Protestant, no Catholic prinas ciples voted according to such principles ; and that whoever is rich in of men. the slave Masonry was of one words equality fraternity, liberty, ; but every down is immediately narrowed these by limiting means Masonry and nothing clauses, until fraternity the first to the
"
286
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
repressionand destruction of Catholic and Christian churches means ; equality common our common schools, our common religion, With God. honor," humanity, the true Masonic
more;
is liberty
the
the
our
"
the
letter of the
Grand
Orient
we
of
Rome
to
Bro.
Sherman
(p. 2
Ad
of the
pamphlet)
Terrarum
chapter:
Architect!
Universi
Orbis Gloriam.
Summi
Meumque
GRANDE
sotto
e
Jus.
ORIENTE di al Celeste
Ordo Roma.
ab
la Volta
41" 54'
del
suo
di Latitudine Zenit.
10"
Supremo Consigliodel
erali; Gr
Grande Rito
.'" Eletti
.'. Gr
.'.
GenIspettori
.". del
Cavalri
mo
Gr
.'. Comm
Impero
ed ultimo Ace
grado
"". della
di
.'" ed
Massoneria il
in Italia sedente
"
in Roma
"
giorno
anno
"
del
"'" L
mese
dell'
di V
.'.
00089
edell'E.". di 6 de
V.Ml Marzo
42,
6, 1893.
.". M .". of
A.
Sherman,
33", W
5, of
Gethsemane
Chapter, No.
Rose
Through the Secretary of the Supreme Council of Washington, the General Supreme Council of Italyhas received the resolutions Illustrious Brother, on December moved by yourself. i8th, 1892, and unanimously approved by your Chapter, which Masonry at large,and the Maencourages
111.*, and
Dear
Brother:
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
287
in their work of vindicating all Italyespecially, the civil rightsof the nations, and the preciousgiftof Liberty of Conscience, granted to all mankind by the
sons
of
Grand
Architect
It is but too
Vatican,
breath
of
is
from its nest, the priestcraft endeavoring to extinguish with the icy the Sacred Fire of Science
at
Reaction
our
and
of
Liberty,which
of
enormous
Brotherhood in
lightedup
the face
the cost
and sacrifices,
now
of
dreadful
dangers, and
It is true
keep
Papacy, having gone astray from the pure and genuine source of Christianity, is fighting with nowadays against Masonry increasing that Papacy keeps in Italy, where audacity,especially alive a revolt against the established Order, and in a of permanent attempt to ruin the unity and integrity
the
that the
country.
have
never
We
doubted for
us
the
love
the American
carry your
on
Masons the
so
in that
and
of
we
in
words,
for
us,
have
received
amidst
us.
They
and
were
Council, and
to all the
at
once
translated
Lodges
. . .
and
Chapters of
the Italian
Masonic
In the
Family.
name
all the
Masons
Brother, and
most
Supreme Council, 33", and of dear of Italy,accept. Illustrious and give to your Chapter, the sincerest and
of the
loving thanks.
The Del.'. Sov
-'. Gr
.".
Commander,
Ad.
The
.".,
Lemmi,
33".
288
PEEP
INTO
LODGE
We
some
copy
the letter
as
we
it,merely completing
convenience
of
our
abbreviated
words
studied
Freemasonry
in relation to
tianity. Chris-
is obsolete; will not suffice for present Catholicity is Jove transFather formed, enlightenment. Its Eternal its Virgin Mary is a modified Venus. The God whom it worships,is everyof the Old Testament where the author of evil; has most of the passions of the human heart ; is a crude conceptionof crude minds. Its authorityis tyranny over consciences; its history of persecution and corruption. Its divine institution one is denied as is also the inspiration of the Scriptures. the corruptions Its doctrines are of older pagan fables. is a pagan sacrifice imitated by the brethren, Its mass bread and who, as the High Priesthood, consecrate is partaken of by the Brethren, if, perwine, which chance, of the body of they may receive some particle Zoroaster, Confucius or the dead Jesus of Nazareth. Christ it does as Mahomet; Masonry reverences looks benignly on those who believe tolerates,pities, Christ Divine, a belief not shared in by Himself. All that has been said of Masonry's attitude towards the Old Testament, bears upon Christianityin general with the same force that it does on in parCatholicity ticular. The of Masonry Christianization tempted atwas by well-meaning writers like Oliver, but the be Christianized life-blood of Paganism cannot by mere human forces. terpret Masonry has eliminated Christian insectarian. too as Entering the Lodge have listened to speeches about we Popery, Romish tyranny, etc., etc., crowning all with an official letter
"
CHAPTER
XV
Masonic
Morality
We and
not
purposely
The of
no
head
this of Our
an
chapter
Masonic for
we
Morality,
treat
are
Morality
persons.
sense as
Masons, words,
on nor
of
ories, theto
not
therefore,
the
even
be
taken
in of
attack
individual
on so
acter charmoral
as
any
particular Mason,
Masons conduct in
on
the far
of their If
general,
the
save
in
they
their
esoteric
to
principles of
Masonic
this
they
is this
live
according
but
concerns
theories,
we
morality
and
anything
their
we
Christian;
us.
is all that
Of
alone
their
fidelity to principles
intimately
with
enters
principles God
discuss,
not
is
judge.
it
Masonic How
morality,
Masonry,
is the
of
be,
that
is connected
plain
the of
fact
morality
"
into is
a
very
definition
the
Craft:
in gory alle-
Freemasonry
and
system
of morality
"
veiled
illustrated And
by symbols
in
(Masonic
of
Ritualist,
on us
pp.
42 of
sqq.).
the
same
or
speaking
Dr.
men
"
Lodges,
informs be
a
page that
245
"
work,
scandalous
Mackey
can
no
immoral those of
admitted, Mason,
be
"
but
only
man."
But that
"
good
report."
To
one
be
must
fore, therea
it is
confidently asserted,
is
moral
how
Dr. p.
it, then,
laments that
the
ordinary
reader
will
ask,
Mackey 847),
and
{Encyclopaedia
are
of
our on
sonry, FreemaOrder
"there
men
no
in credit
whose
lives
characters 290
reflect
the
In-
MASONIC stitution
are
"
MORALITY
It resuh
is
true,
he
asserts
not
the
of
Masonic
are
teaching,but
found in
violations
of
it ; that similar
examples
be
Christianity,
fact is that
the
point.
The
Masons;
can a
it is therefore
false that
moral
not
us
men
be members Mason?
Was
assures
Voltaire
that he
was.
McClenachan
says
"Voltaire,"
(Ency-
of the most clopcBdia, famous French p. 102 1 ), "one born writers,was at Chatenay, near Sceaux, in 1694. His early life was loose and varied. In 1728 he became
infatuated
with in
Madame
du he
Chatelet.
. . .
During
with
his
exile
England
his
imbibed
He
was
Deistical
theories, which
atheism.
marked He
was
life.
charged
Lodge of the Nine Sisters,at Paris, February 7, 1778, in the presence of Franklin and others distinguished in Masonry. Died May 30, 1778, which gave rise to a memorable held the succeeding 28th of Lodge of Sorrow on November." If Voltaire's morality be a type of the
Masonic,
we
initiated in the
do
not
envy
the
Brotherhood.
some
Franklin
had
been
initiated
:
time
Benjamin prior to
much
we
1734
may
{Encyclopedia,p. 290)
admire
to
yet, however
far from
the
man
and
services
to
"
ing conform-
the
of Christian
morals.
His
morals says
to
that
he
was
hood], [theperiod of early manlate biographer of the sage, "were cording aca his own account fairlygood. He asserts neither dishonest nor unjust, and we can
this time
"
for
these
were
not
faults in his
his this
passed through
292
MASONIC
MORALITY
that might have been expected immorality or injustice from of religion.'In the first draft want my he added, of the Autobiography foolish intrigues some with low from the women excepted, which rather more than to me were to prejudicial expense gross
'
them.' out."
^
But
in the
were
crossed
George
85.)
the following: chastitywas but for health or Chastity. Rarely use venery to dullness,weakness, or the injury of never offspring, another's peace or or reputation; (ibid., your own p. but 102), a rule, indeed, which avoids many excesses,
"
"
His
the
Christian
a
standard.
you
"
Ah
not
at
this time
Mason,"
remains
man
may
be But
date
argument
no
same;
a
for
it is said that
immoral
not
be
Mason,
of that
expression is
Craft, but
if Franklin would
a
used
only
of actual
members
so
of
candidates
were
for
admission;
from the
excluded in the
on
he
be
numbered
man
second. of
a
Moreover,
mistress
letter to written
young
the choice
of the rules of June 25th, 1745; some which too are utterly gross for publicationby his biographer.^ At this time Franklin was certainlya
on
of Franklin, vol. I, p. 180. See Fisher, The Benjamin Franklin, Philadelphia, 1902, In the State 126-128. at Washington," says Department pp. is also his 1. Mr. Fisher, c. p. 126, preserved [Franklin's] letter of Brussels, which Perfumes to the Royal be cannot Academy on the rules modern Franklin of and in under fact, taste, published himself speaks of it as having too much grossierete to be borne (Bigelow's Works of Franklin, vol. vii,p. by polite readers." 374-)
1 2
Bigelow's Works
"
"
True
"
'
MORALITY
293
must not
much
reliance, therefore,
"
be
put
say
on
expression
moral
man."
There
true
different systems of
one
of
not
can
be true; I say systems; and you know that what one considers moral, and lauds and practises, is condemned The by another. according to his system, man, by every means possibleand
as was
immoral
to
him
the touchstone
every act " " moral
moral a Epicurean was he enjoyed himself when avoided pain. Pleasure of right and By wrong.
to be determined.
was an
it the
moralityof
a
was man
But
to
abomination
of
standard.
matter
Is the what
action useful to
other features there If what
Then
no right,
which life.
the act
And
the
of utility
this present
me,
becomes
The
the
my
self-aggrandizeme morality.
so-called of those who stand in my are rights way mere phantoms of ill-instructed conscience ; and, priding I shall crush all opposimyself on my moral integrity, tion command. Utilitarian moat my rality by every means is the morality is not Christian morality. There of the
Mormon,
that of the
Mohammedan,
; but all
are
that of the
anti-Christian.
Masonic important question in dealing with therefore, is to discover what sort of morality morality, it is based; to it is; to examine what on principles
learn, in
This
word,
us
how
Christian
or
unchristian
not
it is.
is for
the
importantpoint,and
which
will listen to
phrase
294
or
MASONIC
MORALITY
sentence
which
the
uninitiated
to
will,in
few
moments
of Masonic
morality,and
wrongly. You will accept without limitation such an The morals of antiquity, of the expressionas this : law of Moses and of Christianity, ours." are (Morals and Dogma, p. 308). "Could anything,"you will ity moralask, be clearer or more emphatic ? Masonic
" "
is
therefore
not
Christian."
And
cannot
yet.
Masonic
as
morality is
we
Christian, and
term,
"
be Christian,
conceive
"
the
Pike,
a
We
We
. .
later,
one
"
all initiates
or
as
our
recognize," Brothers.
.
We
belong to
a
creed
school.
In all
there is
(Morals
311.) of your Christian fucius, theory,when Zoroaster, ConMahomet, Brigham Young, are placed side by
p. moral
Dogma,
side,as
Have
you
Masonry were simply a the Christian institution,the Jew and the Moslem, and the Buddhist, could not conscientiously Brahman ? (Encyclopcedia of partake of its illumination if its illumination is to Freemasonfy, p. 163.) And consist in teaching a morality, for Masonry defines itself this morality a can system of morality,"how be Christian, since the Jew, the Moslem, the Brahman, and the Buddhist, may and embrace conscientiously so soon practiseit? Have forgotten the Shock you and of Enlightenment of Entrance how didate canevery stands the portals of Masonry, at the on threshold of this new Masonic in darkness, helplife,
" "
"
forgotten so
that
"
if
"
MASONIC
and ignorance lessness,
"
MORALITY
?
295
"
How,
having been
over
dering wan-
amid
the
errors
and
covered
with
the
pollutionsof the outer and profane world" (and outside everything Masonry is this profane world), "he comes to inquiringly ing [Masonry's] doors, seekthe new birth,and asking a withdrawal of the
veil which
conceals
divine truth
"
from
sight
"
"
How
and
his
a
initiation is,as
a
death How
and
to the world
resurrection to
"
new
life " ? of
error
the world
is left behind
the
chains
restrained the candidate previously in moral and intellectual captivity are broken," etc., etc.? (Ritualist, pp. 22, 23.) Have and so forgottenall this? Have you forgotten, you in its models, its kinship, soon, that Masonry is pagan its very heart-blood? {Encyclopedia, p. 297.) And from this do you expect Christian morality? Is memory short that phallic so worship is forgotten?and Jehovah, the He-She, the Masonic God? and the soul emanation of the divinity? Do you not remember an that the Masonic Ritualist (p.338) has told us that a candidate,in his initiation, acquires the firstelements of morality ? have strated demonSurely all this must to you that Masonic moralityis not Christian. Christian moralityis based upon the ten commandments of Moses; Masonic A Mason, moralityis not. Mason, is not bound by these. He may, if he as a wishes, or if he is ignorantenough to believe in them, be binding observe them; but they are not and cannot Masonic conscience. So Dr. Mackey will teach on a
. . .
ignorancewhich
had
"
"
us.
"
Decalogue.
The
ten
commandments
Mount
of and
the
corded reso
Mosaic
law,
as
delivered twentieth
from
Sinai
in the
called," he
says
p.
296 205).
"
MASONIC
MORALITY
he obligatory," because
cannot to
"They
a
are as a
not
continues,
is
upon tolerant
to
Mason and
Mason,
the
Institution
cosmopolite, and
or
any
which
express
belief in
the No
law prescribed for partial be properly selected for the government of an Institution whose great characteristic is its universality." Masonic the The theory of the ten commandments, basis of Christian morality,is,therefore, that they contain for a particular law prescribed ligion." reonly a partial be a They are not, therefore, and cannot is, from a morality; and a Mason part of Masonic if he break Masonic standpoint, a moral man," even all of them. Truly, it is not hard to be a moral man
" "
under
"
the circumstances
"
; and
if this is what
you
mean
gain littlein Christian eyes by highly moral. Doctor But what does Mackey mean by a partial in as much it does not contain law? Is it partial as because it is binding all moral precepts? Or partial His explanation shows only on a part of mankind? by moral having your
man,
you members
that
he the
takes
the
word
for
a
he
jects re-
Mosaic
Decalogue
one
repugnant
whose
to
by it,if he
Catholic
has and
not
imbibed
are
Masonic
bound
The
not
by
its
them.
Mason,
freedom
of
Craft, is
subject to
never
Decalogue,
It
made
law?
has;
it
moral
law, it could
298
of
MASONIC
MORALITY
the
Mosaic
law,
we
venture
to
assert to
broad
life of
enough
man
of the moral
than
most
human
One would imagine,from reading Bro. beings desire. going to impose Mackey's words, that Masonry was
some
higher, nobler,
Mosaic. the
"
vaster
system
reached.
of
the when
But
alas!
verbiage
moral
and
nature
It is the
differences
and
on
because
by
natural
by natural light ? moral But The right and the moral wrong? many have denied so styled, using natural light, philosophers,
law, discoverable
any
difference
between
the two. So
Such his
was
Franklin's
theory
went
holding that, in
wise, and
must
as
much
as
God
is
had
created
the
universe, whatever
virtue
be
^
and right, If
to must
an
vice and
empty
Franklin's
tions." distincwent
intellect such
as
astray
as
the
Mackey
But
of morality,Bro. very starting-point in his natural light. not confide too much
we
willingly grant, that right the natural intellect unbiased by passion, or can reason, discover tion by natural intellectual lightboth the distincbetween moral and the right and moral wrong, natural precept to do the rightand to avoid the wrong, the Masonic whether we question much intellect, whose seat is in the heart sonry, {Encyclopaedia of Freemawhose have light,as we seen p. 391), and {Encyclopaedia, lightof pasp. 941), is the sensuous
even
1
as granting,
Franklin's
p.
84, referring
to
MASONIC
MORALITY
299
right and the true moral Masonic natural light, light, wrong. expresses for the initiate ideas unsuspected by our reader. Man, or the male principle," says Bro. McClenachan (Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 941), "symbolized was by ardent fire, represented by red, and the female identified with the idea of lightor principle, flame, representedby yellow or light-colored earth,
true
"
the
moral
over
which
of
a
the
swift-footed
Mason's
bears of
the
ings tid-
obligatory
light of the fire,the female of divine called Athor, signibeauty, the Egyptian Venus, was fying thus represented," dwelling of Horus, and was will indeed be consistent Morality read in this light, the object of our with the system which has formed Christian not Study, but it will be pagan sensuality, chastity.What, indeed, is to be expected from a introduces its disciples to phallic ship worsystem which from of religion? What a as a principle system Him Hewhich and twists Jehovah to make tortures a chief What from whose She? a symbols, system traced to their ultimate meaning, have invariably when tinction Dr. Mackey sexual meaning? a impresses the disof the two treatingof systems upon us when the word lily." in the Old The plant so frequentlymentioned of lily, emblem of under the name Testament an as purity and peace," p. says Dr. Mackey {Encyclopcedia, It ocof Egypt and India. cupied 471), was the lotus lily of the ornaments a conspicuous place among of the molten The brim the Temple furniture. sea wrought with flowers of the lotus; the chapiters was the tops at the porch, and the tops of the pillars on adorned with the same of the pillars themselves, were
succor.
" " "
This
300
MASONIC
MORALITY
plant. Saviour,
.
The
. .
lily which
of
is mentioned and
as
an
image
a
peculiarbeauty
of nature flower
;
by our glory,
when
comparing
of art,
was
with
the decorations
of
liliunt.
This
the salutation of
"
We
must
not,
probably a species is also represented in all pictures of Gabriel to the Virgin Mary." he adds later, the however, forget,"
. . .
"
difference between
the the of lily latter the is New.
Testament Masonic
and
plant;
to. Nevertheless, scarcely referred through the ignorance of the early translators as to sacred plants, the lotus is constantly used for the lily;
and
hence
the
same
error
has
rituals." of Mary's virginity the lily and the lotus verily, of pagan have sensuousness nothing in common! The lotus plant, so celebrated in the religions of Egypt and Asia," says Dr. Mackey {Encydopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 477), "is a speciesof Nymphaea, or which water-lily, abundantly on the banks of grows No
;
"
streams
in
were
warm
climates.
. . .
The
Brahminical
deities
seated
rated always represented as either decowith its flowers, or holding it as a sceptre, or Coleman it as a throne." tinues, on says," he con(Mythol. Hindus, p. 388), that to the Hindu almost
" "
was
what
the
rose
was
to
the of
Persians.
Floating on
and of the
the
water
it is the
emblem
the
world,
Meru,
gods.
of
Among
and the
the
Egyptians,the
It
was was
the
symbol
ornament
Osiris
Isis.
esteemed
sacred
by
the used
and priests, of
upon
heads
much
being placed
entablature
of
MASONIC
MORALITY
301
their
introduced it was temples. Thence by Solomon into Jewish architecture,being found, under the name of of the two work,' as a part of the ornaments lily at the porch of the Temple." pillars Here deed, led by devious we are once more paths inbut led back inexorably to the sensual symbols lotus flower, a species of of the Craft. The Nymphsea, the rose of the Persians, the symbol of the
'
world
or
or
universe, Osiris
coronet, the
"
and
Isis, the
of the
Isian
dress head-
Solomon's
but
not not
of pillars phallic this, indeed, is the Masonic lily, latter is Christian chastity.The
work lily
Masonic.
And
lest,kind
we
reader, you
to
should
point,permit us to quote Dr. Mackey says concerning this very virtue of what for word, modernizing shall give it,word chastity ; we of what purports to be English of merely the spelling
seek
force
the
"
fourteenth
century.
the Halliwell
written
Chastity. In
of
Manuscript
not
of
the the
Constitutions
latter
to
Masonry,
fourteenth the
later than
part of the
a
century, and
purporting
at
be
copy
of
926,
*
the seventh
York
in
Thou
shalt not
master's wife
in
thee
no
manner
lie, wise.
Nor
Lest Nor No
by thy
the
fellow's would
Craft
despise ;
did
by thy
more
fellow's concubine.
thou
wouldst
he
by
thine.'
"
"Again," continues
known
as
Dr.
Mackey,
Cooke
"in
the
tutions Consti-
the Matthew
Manuscript, the
date
of which
is about
302
MASONIC
MORALITY
century, the
'
same
is enforced regulation
in these words
That he covet the wife nor the not 7th Point. daughter of his masters, neither of his fellows, but if [unless]it be in marriage.' So all through the Old Constitutions and Charges, we find this admonition to of our brethren's wives and daughrespect the chastity ters; admonition which, it is scarcelynecessary to an this day." to {Encyclopedia of say, is continued Freemasonry, p. 160.) It is strange that Dr. Mackey did not see how much The is than Mosaic. son MaMasonic narrower chastity of the wives and daughis to respect the chastity ters of Masons the Charges do not go beyond this ;
"
The
commandment
is to respect
precept, enjoinsupon
even
respect all
You
anhood wom-
in said
their
to
thoughts.
of
have
the
that
it
was
them "'Thou
old," says
shalt not
(Matth.
on a
V,
27,
28),
commit
But
woman
shall look I say to you, that whosoever to lust after her, hath already committed her the in his heart."
or
adultery with
here
to
There
is
no
tion limita-
of a daughter, or concubine It may fellow. be objected,indeed, that this Hallimasonry, well Manuscript is a forgery {Encyclopcedia of Freethat it is rejectedby modern p. 977), and Masonic research; but this does not invalidate our trine, It is rejected, of its docaccount not on argument. its of its unauthenticity. That but on account shown doctrine is good Masonic doctrine is clearly by the fact that Dr. Mackey quotes it with approval. is abundantly sufficient. This for our purpose But the broadness and Christian of Mosaic chastity the field of sensual indulgence;prescribes, in narrows
wife,
MASONIC
MORALITY
303
fact, a
inferior
way,
against which
womanhood
nature
our
The
our
more
is
respected, the
"
is
more
sensual
limited.
More
"
broadness !
broadness
here !
"
cries passion,
for,
woman
on
Masonic
is
male;
"
away
with
the
of I
"
"
Christian
"
and
Mosaic
does
not
moral
war
ignorance and
with his
own
The
Mason
instincts," says
Bro.
Pike
(Morals
and
Dogma,
says
"
What
"More broadness!" p. 231). you say. " the Master ? Enter ye in at the narrow
"
gate
broad
there
for wide
to
destruction,and
narrow
How
leadeth
is the gate,
and there
strait is the
are
way
that
to
life; and
few
that find it." deed strange, so strange inbe unbelievable, that, consistently sonic with Maour
as
It will strike
as
readers
to
is
yet such
its illumination
morality for woman. For Masonry holds that outside is moral ness; ignorance and darkno
true
slavery;that, in initiation, of true moralityare implanted in the the first principles But it is justas certain that no woman human breast.
can woman
one
who
has
not
entered
its
portals
of moral
be
Mason.
It
is
no
in Masonic know light,can participate about the Rebeccas? true morality. How They are and be but they are affiliated society, not cannot an It is a fundamental mark landMasons. a true principle, shall be only of the Order, that its members
can men.
"
In
some
States," says
p.
Dr.
Mackey
(Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry,
70),
304
"
MASONIC
MORALITY
these
in
very
strongly
fact these
condemned
as
improper
as
Th^
well been
as
degrees
females admitted
have
are
told that
information under the name of obtainingMasonic Ladies' Masonry,' they are simply deceived. Every connected woman by the ties of consanguinitywith a Master is peculiarly Mason entitled to Masonic ance assistand protection. If she is told this,and also told that by these androgynous degrees she is to be put in of making her claims known possessionof the means be called oral testimony,but by a sort of what may that she is by their possession to the portals nearer no than of Masonry she was before, if she is honestly told this,then I can of harm, but the possibility see no bestowed and some good, in those forms if carefully sonry Maprudently preserved. But all attempts to make that anomalous of them, and especially thing called Ladies' imprudent, and Masonry, are wrong, formed the well-incalculated to produce oppositiorj among of the and cautious members Fraternity."
Women,
therefore, cannot
be
be Masons.
Women,
fore, there-
The Masonically moral. morality of of Masonry is dependent on the physicalqualification Ladies' Masonic of a sex. Masonry, or system is an anomaly. Truly the road morality for women, need is broad enough for human passion! A Mason not war againsthis instincts. Remember," says Bro. Pike {Morals and Dogma, characteristic of man finds p. 76), "that every moral its prototype among of lower creatures intelligence;
cannot
"
3o6
Thou Thou
MASONIC
MORALITY
and
Love
Him
the virtues! by practising II. O -'" Thy religionshall be, to do good because ft is a pleasure to thee, and not merely because it is a duty. That
man,
thou
mayest
become his
the
friend
of
the
wise
thou
shalt
obey
precepts!
Thou shalt do
is immortal!
nothing
to
"
.'.
Thou
shalt
unceasingly
others
unto to
war
against
thou
shalt
not
not
do them
unto to
that thee!
which
wish
do
shalt be the
"'"
submissive wisdom!
keep
burning
IV. Thou Thou Thou ! V.
"
lightof
Thou
thy parents! respect and homage to the aged! pay instruct the young! cence infancy and innoprotect and defend
Thou shalt cherish
shalt honor
"'"
thy
wife
and
thy
! shalt love
thy country,
friend
and
obey
a
"*"
Thy
do
shall be to thee
estrange thee
his
were
from
memory
whatever
living!
avoid and flee from
ffi "'.
shalt
sincere in-
from of
a
excess
!
on
be
the
cause
stain
thy
"'"
Thou
shalt allow
no
passionto
become
thy
master!
MASONIC
MORALITY
307
others
shalt make
to
the
passions of
error!
profitable
Thou Thou
shalt shalt
hear
act
much:
Thou
shalt
speak
Thou Thou Thou
well !
forget injuries! render good for evil! misuse either thy strength not
Thou shalt learn seek
or
thy
that
! superiority X.
"'"
study
to
to
know
men:
thereby thou
Thou Thou Thou But
*
mayest
ever
know
thyself!
shalt
after
virtue!
shalt be
just!
idleness! of I unto he commandment
great
He
Masonry
is this:
new
commandment that
give
saith
one
another! his
hateth
"
brother, remaineth
he
Such,"
concludes,
"
the of
moral
duties
to
of
Mason. in
But
it is also the
duty
Masonry
assist
the moral and intellectual level of society elevating ; in coining knowledge, bringing ideas into circulation, and causing the mind of youth to grow; and in and putting,gradually,by the teachings of axioms the promulgation of positivelaws, the human race in harmony with its destinies." extended We comment. must, Brevity forbids nevertheless, call attention to a few points. clinati inIn the first place, we have the slightest not to deny that, read in their obvious sense, much contain the good preceding commandments morality. I say, read in their obvious sense, for Bro. ments, has seen fit to prefix signs to these commandPike within a circle, with a plain a cross alternating
3o8
circle.
as
MASONIC
MORALITY
Now
the
cross
within
the
circle is the
same
point within the circle;and the plain circle is a ple. symbol of nature, the universe, the female princiBible And read in the just as the Christian acquires its true light of the square and compasses Masonic meaning, so, for the esoteric Mason, will these interpretedby their precepts acquire theirs when will read them, as sign. The exoteric Mason proper attention will the profane,paying no to the symbol that accompanies them, and will see, perhaps, little
the difference the the God: Mosaic between law. these He commandments
a
and
some
of
will, if he be
as
Christian, take
revelation
of
Jehovah, the
In this and the
He-She
God
of
Masonry.
a
second
place,there is,indeed,
it is the broadness
broadness
a
in
morality; but
indefiniteness
"
which,
may
cover
like
a
of
sense,
multitude
sins."
shalt
ever
unceasingly war
seek
on
after the
meaning
to
againstvice ;"" Thou virtue ; will depend for of standard tablished. morality es"
Christian
and
Catholic
virtue
may
be,
Masonry, vice; and hence we so often find Catholic against as immoral, celibacy warred in legislation inspiredby Masonry. look in vain, in the third place,for the clear, We their equivalents, Mosaic or commandments, explicit Thou shalt not commit shalt not Thou adultery ; find instead We covet thy neighbor's wife." only shalt allow no Thou such expressions as passion to become thy master;" "Thy soul is immortal; thou shalt do nothing to degrade it;" expressionswhich
according
"
"
"
"
MASONIC
MORALITY
309
the exoteric
Mason
may,
if he
be
sincere and
the but
Protestant, as interpret
of the
as
revealed
we
dealing with the virtue of chastity, their not are equivalent. The chastity imposed on Masons, by Masonry, is far more
restricted.
In the
which,
have
in
fourth
on
"
place,we
divine shalt
search
in vain
for
an
the
Thou
Christian
with
with
is like to
thy
neighbor
thyself."
commandment of (Mark xii, 30, 31). Even the new from the Gospel, loses immensely Masonry, borrowed in the borrowing. A commandment I give new
"
unto
you
That
you, The
one
another,
and
as
I have
loved
another."
love
is
which
its
joys, and
everything for
the
we
world
holds
dear,
in
our
life itself
next
included; whereas,
for
benevolence
no
deal
with aid
to
Mason serious
obliged to
necessitous
brother
with
inconvenience
as
as
: a
Thou
shalt
"
be Thou
substitute
In
a
Catholic
preceding chapter we have seen enough of Bro. Pike and his Brethren; of the anti-Catholic spirit and unvarying experience in countries where
truth."
Masonry
can
exercise
proved to
3IO
MASONIC
MORALITY
the world
that
the of
tolerance
on
Masonry's lipsis
ter bit-
in its heart. Catholicity remark, that as Masonry claims Lastly,we would be the sole teacher of true to morality, its system contain all the moral must to man, good necessary and forbid all moral evil. Some from a good even Christian standpointis not sufficient; moral and true in this world, and for Masonry claims the whole man pretends to prepare him for his eternal destinies in intolerance the
next.
It is in
or
that
Masonry; there is no system in this world that is utterlyperverse. Making the claims that it does, making the promises that it does, we are its promises; and to judge it by its pretensions and jects judged by these, it is lamentably deficient. It reits morality supernaturally revealed; for morality is the offspringof natural light. It does The Mason not pretend to dogmatic certitude. does not pretend to dogmatic certitude,"says Bro. Pike (Morals and Dogma, p. 226), "nor vainly His imagine such certitude attainable." morality, good point
"
therefore,
of
must
roam
forever
in the
realms and
of the
mere
circumstances of fixed
on
hour, devoid
when
we no
and the
infallible Masonic
And of
reflect
matter
theory
of
to
we
a
what
violations
are
the
moral
absorbed
into that
our
may the
be
be
are
taught
of the
sin, for it is
moral
spark
are
divine
that
faults
it is
tributab at-
to solely
in which Pike
immersed,
a
the
commandments
frail and
interest and
self-
MASONIC
MORALITY
3"
perhaps a concrete example of Masonic interest our readers. A morality may Mason is obliged,by his tenure," we are told, "to obey the moral law, and if he rightlyunderstands the art, he will never be a stupid atheist nor tine. liberan irreligious But though in ancient times Masons were charged in every country to be of the religion of that it is now country or nation, thought more in which expedientonly to obligethem to that religion all men leaving their particular opinions to agree, themselves." {Masonic Ritualist, dia p. 244; Encyclopeof Freemasonry, p. 112.) This is certainly ing, teacha strange sample of moral and it well illustrates what Masonic morality may If a Mason sanction. the art," rightlyunderstand rather the Old or Charges quoted says the Ritualist, be a stupid atheist, by the Ritualist, he will never libertine." But does every Mason nor an irreligious art? the Dr. Mackey in his rightly understand works again and again inveighs against Masonic is every atheist a ignorance. And stupid one? Atheistic philosophersare atheists,but they certainly consider themselves do not will stupid. The Mason libertine ! What of that ? be not an irreligious Doctor all libertines been have irreligious? The well as we, that public prostitution in the knows as
"
. . .
But
"
"
"
"
name
of
the old
of
i"agan
deities
a
was
part of the
outcome
ligious re-
cult
paganism,
of the
as
of
the
were
worship phallic
not
ancients.
Hbertines
whom
considered
irreligious by
we
a
Masonry
which
reveres.
And the
what
are
to
think
of
morality in
of profession
Of
312 suit of
MASONIC
MORALITY
clothes, to be put
on
and A
a
place and
to
variety of
Brahman in
climate? in
be
India;
cast
Jew
in
Catholic
Rome;
in
to
his
aside religion
hammedani Mo-
Mecca,
because
business,
health,
led him dence to take up his resior curiosity, pleasure, And in one what, pray, of place or another. man's belief ? What the sincerity of such of his a religious practices? Christian sacrilege sat lightly had partaken of the such a conscience, for he who on Catholic Eucharist to-day in Rome, could trample on the Crucifix in Constantinople. Masonry to-morrow of the country him to be of the religion charged it was nation, whatever or though Masonry in its sublime of enlightenment taught him that all forms the corruption the work of man, religionwere error, Thou shalt be indulgent to of primitive truth. to the extreme error {Morals and Dogma, p. i8), even its comof publicly mand. professing it. Such was
or
"
"
"
"
"
"
subject further, having said enough to give a fair insightinto the Masonic have essayed to treat. system; for it is of this that we have We set forth the principles which, according to and Masonry, should regulate the moral life of man of society;though we have hoped that the lives of Masons better than the principles advocated are by
not
We
shall
pursue
the
the
Craft. have
expression a moral will bear as many man meanings as the systems of morality embraced; and that it does not necessarily moral from Christian have mean a standpoint. We shown that Masonic of outcome morality, the is not It rejects the Christian. principles, pagan
"
We
shown
that
the
"
314
Bro. Pike
MASONIC
MORALITY
himself
can
find
no
difference
between
the
and that of the brute, and as we morality of man have man already said, seeks the difference between and beast in a spark of the Deity, a theory as absurd it is opposed to Christian in the eyes of reason as revelation. And
"
Masonry
of
our
which,
mind
as
Bro.
Pike
to
says,
has
duty
of
causing the
of
youth
grow."
With of
sensualism
of morals
sense
offspring by
;
means
Eugenism which,
with
cast
while
certain
and
that precautions
as
Christian
ethics
would
it,is alas !
treated
by
christian un-
for unchristian vice ; Jiame polite with all these, the natural products of modern ism, paganof which Masonry gloriesin being the exponent, is of our This the minds youtliare growing apace. which the Masonry of common lays the foundations State universities and schools and speaks of them as ours." This is the Masonry which fights, and fights God from to keep out our education, that successfully, it may find a fitting soil afterwards for implanting its as Jehovah, its He- She, the god of paganism, nature freed in man from the moral restraints of typified who does foresee the results not Christianity.He of all this,must be blind indeed. Masonry sees them labors towards them but incessantly, clearly, insensibly pens, but
"
and the
the
Catholic
who
who has
has
been
lulled to
to
slumber
and
Protestant
been
love, and
toleration,and
awake
belief in God
and
the
soul's
immortality,will
with
start
when
it is too
MASONIC
MORALITY
315
late,
is
and
rub
their the
eyes,
and Such
wonder
at
the
cockle
that in
choking
such
wheat.
is the
is
the
awakening
elsewhere,
sown
France;
as
awakening
and the seeds
prepared
of
the
years
go
by,
their
sensualism
broadcast
yield
wonted
fruit.
CHAPTER
XVI
Masonic
Benevolence
As,
that
in
our
preceding chapter,
teaches shown many
a as a
we
have
not
denied
Masonry
we
useful
moral
moral
lesson,
tem, sys-
though
have
that,
pagan,
complete
condemned
we
it is
reason;
to
unchristian,
in the
and
by
no
sound desire
so,
present
features show the
chapter
of such claims
have
deny
we
the
good
shall all that
Masonic
benevolence,
is far
though
from
being
the
Masonic
benevolence
twofold;
work
too
valued
by
at
Brotherhood,
same
real
Masonry,
but,
the
the
time,
not
presented kept
accessory in the
insistently to
in the
world,
nay,
; and
oftentimes the
sedulously
and
ground backwhich
other,
accidental,
a
is, however,
blind
to
constantly kept
the
even
forefront,
of the
specious
since
conceal
means
real Masons
purposes
Order;
are
by
"
its
themselves of its
very in
large majority
a
disciples,"
the
Mackey
to
passage
already
as seen
quoted,
in which it has
"looking every-day
it
only
ness busi-
its of
practical results,
life,
"
to
the the
noble
charities which
dispenses,
to
to
the of
tears
of
widows
dried,
the
the of
too
orphans
which
it has
hushed,
"
to
wants
destitute
which
at
it has the
supplied,
arrive that of
with
rapidity
in
conclusion,
exalted of the
sense
Charity,
and
its
least
eleemosynary
The
care
great
design
Institution."
316
MASONIC
of the of the
BENEVOLENCE
317
widow,
orphan, and the needy, the imparting eleemosynary aid, is, in the eyes of Masonry,
part of its benevolence.
is what it holds
to
the
least exalted
The
chief,
pation emanci-
the
principal part
of
our
be the
race.
Its essential
consists benevolence,therefore,
"the truth of of
"
in teaching
"
mankind
nature
God
and
the
soul
the
and
essence
both
33)
and
; in
which
intellectual
in
captivity (Masonic
Ritualist,p.
"elevating the moral and intellectual level of in coiningknowledge, bringing ideas into circulation society; and causing the mind of youth to grow ; and in putting,gradually,by the teachingsof axioms and the promulgation of positivelaws, the human race in harmony with its destinies (Morals and Dogma, in whose is the benevolence praise the p. 18). This walls of the Lodges ring; which be imparted with can
"
23) ;
little drain
on
the
Brethren's
purses,
the Brethren
happen
thought
may
of Masonic
enlightenment in
our
itself,our
pages. We
readers
gather
nothing
of
our
from
preceding
shall limit
shall add
to
a
here.
We
ourselves
consideration
love
of
Masonry's spiritof
its universal
its philanthrophy,
race,
nevolen be-
of taking the word universal in the sense broad or general. And here, in consideringits spirit to generosity must or we as niggardliness, judge it, not by the value which we put upon its enlightenment, the value which ought to be put upon it,but by nor
3i8
the it. value If
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
which
Masonry
claims
a
itself claims
to
put upon
to
Masonry
and
treasure
believes, or
pretends
believe, that
and it
it has
stores
the
greater
it excludes
part
of
our
race
from
reasons
them
for
flimsy
human
at
all; if it excludes
beings
nature
bound
;
no
to
its members
by
the
tenderest of
ties of
one,
knowing
the true
condition
affairs,
But, on the philanthropy is broad. in reof Masonry the pretensions gard hand, we know one and morality ; and, on the other, Truth to Divine exclusiveness its manifold shall evidentlyprove we ; that its spirit of benevolence but conclude hence we cannot is consequently no versality uniis narrow, that there
will say that its in the For
our
"
sense
of
broadness, in it.
consists
in deeds if it be in
true to
benevolence
power
grant
On the Passions," says Cogan, in his work Mackey {Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 113)," defines Benevolence forth
to
'
When
our
love
or
desire
good
goes benevolence. of
others, it
Benevolence any
embraces
enjoying
universal
portion of good;
the share of
benevolence, which
manifests
by being pleasedwith
good
enjoys, in
to increase disposition in the abhorrence uneasiness and at their sufferings, This of crueltyunder every disguiseor pretext.' Dr. Mackey, continues should spirit," pervade the hearts of all Masons, who are taught to look upon mankind formed Architect of the as by the Grand universe for the mutual assistance,instruction, and
a
" " "
support of each
other."
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
319
In
these
last of
words, Dr.
Mackey
in
completesthe
True
mere
complete in-
Cogan's
does
not
definition.
lence, benevosenti-
true
love
yve
consist
barren
mepts,
as
of
cation communisaid, but in the practical instruction, mutual benefits; in mutual have
mutual assistance,
are
support of
one
able to the good which we are capableof receiving of such of Masonry the spirit impart. Is the spirit Read and judge. benevolence? of proselytism," In respect to the doctrine says Dr. Mackey {Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry, pp. 612the exclusive resembles more 614), "Freemasonry of Moses, of than the inviting one faith of Brahma
"
Buddha,
"
of
Christ, or
of Mohammed.
"
is its
hesitate,at all proper times and on all fitting occasions, to defend the Institution from all seeks, by voluntary attacks of its enemies, it never accessions of new laudation of its virtues, to make
disciples. Nay," he goes on to say, it boasts, as a peculiar beauty of its system, that it is a voluntary Institution. to use Not any efforts only does it forbidits members but actually requires every candidate to obtain initiates, declare, for admission into its sacred rites to seriously a as preparatory step, that in this voluntary offer of tations he has been unbiased by the improper solicihimself,
or friends,
"
to
add
to
the number
of its
"
"
upon
not
of friends." of anti-proselytism, impressed And so, this spirit although from his earliest initiation, every Mason
. . .
come
to
be invested with
all
the sacredness
out
other
human
tion, associaopen
: proudly proclaims
Our
portalsare
320
to
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
all the
"
good
and
true, but
we
ask
no
man
to
ter.' en-
Bro.
of
the
tence exis-
and proselytism,
in
"
This
"
(coming
is
a
uninfluenced
usage of be
by
the
more
the
persuasionof
a
friends)
"
"
settled
Order," he says,
true
and therefore
than
to
nothing can
see
brethren.
is sometimes is
one
and
of those
unhappy
influences
often
existence
present age,
resemble
sort
preceded it, has given birth, and Masonry in nothing, except in having
secret
of
are
ceremony
of
initiation.
And
hence
there with
some
men
of
these
the
the
as
solicitation and
even
persevering a legitimate
these
laudable
them
conceived preto to
notions,
exert
their
duty
thus
all their
influence
persuading their
Men who
our
friends
become
members
the
true
of the
Craft.
conceive mis-
policy of
and in
Institution,should
more
be
instructed
by
their older
that it is
to principles
wholly
ask
oppositionto
to
our
laws
or
and
to
exercise
any
any kind of
one
become
upon
Mason,
the minds
a
influence
a
of tical pracmay
of exemplification ask
admission
they Lodges.
We
322
"
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
Behavior You
are
at
to
home
act to
as
and
in your
a
neighborhood.
and wise
man
"
becomes
moral
not particularly
know
to
the
neighbors wisely
Ancient
honor, and that of the own your not to be mentioned Brotherhood, for reasons
consult
"
here."
Behavior
You
are
towards
strange Brother.
him, in such a cautiouslyto examine method as prudence shall direct you, that you may not be imposed upon by an ignorant false pretender whom ware with contempt and derision,and beto reject you are of hints of knowledge." giving him any And is this rule to be so {Ritualist, strictly p. 250.) lowing enforced in regard to visitors to Lodges that the folis established. principle Lastly,"says Dr. Mackey, treatingof the subject should an {Encyclopcedia, able unjustifip. 267), "never the rigor of these rules. member, Redelicacyweaken
"
"
and
most
evident
reasons,
merciful that
maxim
of
the
law, which
be
better that
one
ninety-nine guiltymen
man
punished, is with us reversed, and that in Masonry [the following italics are author's] it is better that ninety and nine our should he turned true men from the door of a away [a person not a Mason] Lodge than that one cowan
should
should he love should be
innocent
admitted."
of
our
Wonderful
race,
benevolence!
derful wonmen
that from
one
ninety-ninetrue
the
not
source
turned
away
of
Divine be
mitted. ad-
Truth, rather
And what
than
that
oath-bound
are
we
to
think
of
benevolence
"
which,
edge knowl-
of and
important,
soul
"
the
the
nature
and
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
essence
are
of
nearest one,
to
it?
bore
of
one's
bosom,
one's sister,
daughter, one's
of
most
under
when life,
hopes
are we
needed; what
think
of
the
broadness,
of such a benevolence? Yet depth, the sincerity* all of these are excluded from Masonic lightenment enabsolutely all of these,and more. The of candidates for Masonry are qualifications treated in various places in Dr. Mackey's works, but nowhere so fully as in his Masonic Jurisprudence. which The essential in those are qualifications who masonry," apply for initiation into the mysteries of Freehe says (Masonic Jurisprudence,p. 83),
"
the
"
are
"
of two The
external.
a
internal
of qualifications his
own
candidate and
are
are
those
which
to
bosom,
to
"
not
patent
the
They
refer
towards
institution
entrance
design
are can
in
seeking
to
into
a own
they
known
only
"
be
knowledge
solemn
of them
tions. declara-
The
his
external
outward
are qualifications
those
which
are
refer
based
to
fitness and
for
initiation and
of character, the frame religious body, the constitution of his mind, and his social position. A knowledge of these is to be acquired from careful examination appointed for a by a committee the purpose." cations, Passing over, for the present, the internal qualifiupon his his moral let
our
us
turn
our
attention
to
author
(Ibid., p. 89)
reduces
the
four
heads,
324
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
Political. discussion
not
Again
whether
to
a
space of these
let
us
waive
moral.
to
Let
rather
devote
what
brief space
we
may
the
once
for
realize
how
Order, and hence membership add the limitations we can on easily enlightenment, arisingfrom the others. it is As to sex," says Dr. Mackey (Ibid., p. 96) of the Order, and the an unquestionable Landmark that the candidate first pre-requisite to initiation, very
impose
upon Masonic
the
many of the
limitations
these
"
"
shall be
"
'
man.'
"
"
the prohibits
no
initiation of
matter
woman."
her
Every
to
a
woman,
therefore,
may from
true
what
relation
we
Mason
be, is
Divine
cut
oflf
absolutely,as
as
have
said, both
it,and
from
Truth,
Masonry
conceives
of the morality. This exclusion is a landmark Order, namely, an essential and fundamental principle it is not in Masonry's power of Masonry which to it possible Were for all the Masonic ities authorchange. at the present day to unite in a universal congress, and with the most perfect unanimity to adopt any new though regulation,"says Dr. Mackey (Ibid.,p. 15), "alsuch regulation would, so long as it remained unrepealed,be obligatoryon the whole Craft, yet it
"
would of
not
be
landmark.
It would
have
the character
it is true, but it would be wanting in universality, that of antiquity." of Another these he Landmarks," peculiarity is that they are to say, on unrepealable. As goes I have just alluded, would the Congress to which not
" "
have
the power
to
enact
Landmark,
so
neither would
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
325 The
Medes
of abolishing one. prerogative of the Order, like the laws of the the Persians, can suffer no change. What centuries ago, they stillremain, and must in force until Masonry itself shall cease So long, therefore, as Masonry remains
woman,
on or
it have
the
marks Landand
were
they
so
continue
to
exist."
one
half
of the
human
race,
account
of the
physicalmisfortune
of
wander
side ignorance and darkness, intellectual and moral, outthe portals of the Craft. And why ? that can be assignedfor Perhaps the best reason the exclusion from of women our Lodges," says our author (Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, p. 888), will be found in the character of our organization as a mystic society. SpeculativeFreemasonry is only of the art of Operative Masonry to puran application poses The of morality and science. Operative branch and of our Institution was the forerunner origin of the Speculative. Now, admit of no changes or as we in our innovations tains, customs. SpeculativeMasonry reand is governed by, all the rules and regulations that existed in and controlled its Operative prototype. Hence, as in this latter art only hale and hearty men, of all their limbs and members, that in possession so ployed, emthey might endure the fatigues of labor, were
" "
in
so
in the
are
former
not
the
rule
still holds
of
cluding ex-
all who
in the
Woman qualifications. in our rites and ceremonies, not because participate her unworthy, or unfaithful, deem or as incapable, we has been foolishly supposed,of keeping a secret, but
because,
of
on
our
entrance
into the
Order,
we
found
tain cer-
that only men which prescribed regulations the enduring the labor, or of fulfilling
capable
duties
of
326
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
These regulaOperative Masons, could be admitted. tions have to alter; nor we solemnly promised never could ization they be changed without an entire disorganof the whole system of speculative Masonry." What a flimsy excuse! Masonry, the revealer of Divine Truth, the sole teacher of true morality,cannot because has nature not enlighten womanhood, the physicalstrength to carry the hod given woman
and
true
handle
nature
the of
Woman of the
stone
must
not
know
the
human
and
soul, because
is
incapableof hewing
women
are
laying bricks!!!
of have such
many
women
capable
nations
labor;
in
barbarous labor
even
labor, and
can
you
adduce
jyou
for
stone-masons,"
"All."
But tell
"
answer,
from All of
whom
we
are
descended, excluded
Without
women."
them,
Doctor?
you
us
exception." of guilds you Doctor, that in treating forget. of Freemasonry, p. 311) that {Encyclopcsdia
were
exception?
"Without
women
admitted
to
thinks
of
borrowed
Guilds sisters
Southern
and
were
and
were
these
"
page, Craft
come
Europe; and the of complete equalterms on ity you tell us on the preceding
Guilds, and
answers,
Guilds.""
down from
men
Ah the
"
the of
Doctor
"we and he
time
King Solomon,
of his
temple." prudence, And it is evident," he as (Masonic Jurissays that King Solomon employed in the p. 97), of his temple only hale and construction hearty men and cunning workmen, so our Lodges, in imitation of that as an indispensable great exemplar, demand,
employed only
" "
in the construction
MASONIC
to requisite
BENEVOLENCE
327
that the candidate mysteries, shall be a man, capable of performing such work the Master shall assign him. as This is, therefore, the origin of the Landmark which the prohibits initiation of females." (Italics Mackey's.) But Dr. Mackey forgetsthat elsewhere he has told us (Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 798) that all this connection of Freemasonry with the actual Solomon and his temple is a mere no myth," and that writer who values his reputationas a critical historian would defend this theory." We to now attempt give the whole quotation in our chapter on Masonic Dr. history,and shall not repeat it here. Mackey, portant therefore, gives a fictitious origin for this all-imLandmark, which, if his theory be true, and in judging his benevolent we are justified spirit by its his own and dearest nearest pretensions, excludes benefits only, but from relatives, not from priceless life. And what all that reallydignifies human about whom doctors? and lawyers? and literary men? Solomon never engaged nor would think of engaging these for his temple? Why not stone-masons are as from and similar classes excluded son Masonry, if the reagiven be valid ? have found But our trance," enwe Masonry so, on
our
"
initiation into
"
"
cries the
"
Doctor,
driven
to
his
last trench, !
and
we
have
solemnly promised not to alter it." Ah entered found Masonry so when you of benevolence, in it a very niggardly spirit
very wrong
to
did
make
such
solemn
promises. Did you do so knowingly or did you you promise in the dark, led on by the blind esteem Knowingly to cut off, professed for the Institution? mother, wife, daughter,sisand absolutely so, your
328
ter
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
given, is heartless in the extreme; to do so bHndly, shows, if of taking grave gations oblianything can show, the iniquity without clear knowledge of what port. a they imfrom
"
Divine
But
to
do say.
at
otherwise, would
Be it
so.
were
present, how
and Divine
It is heartless
sex, to to most
revere
sonry," destroy MaThis only proves, if proof the sysradically wrong tem barbarous, merely on account
to
be
deny
the
Truth
to
case
the of
mind those
and
to
true
morality
you
are
heart, in the
and
whom
bound intimately
by
the law
which
of nature.
"
is that of age. The cient anqualification prudence, Regulations,"says Dr. Mackey (Masonic Jurisdeterminate not express p. 97), "do any number date candiof years at the expirationof which a becomes legallyentitled to apply for admission. The and language used is,that he must be of mature discreet age.' But the usage fered of the Craft has dif'
in the is
various when
countries this
as
to
the
construction and
of
time
period of maturity
discretion
The sixth of the Regulations, supposed to have arrived. that adopted in 1663, prescribes no person shall be accepted unless he be twenty-one years old, but the subsequent Regulations are less more or ; explicit."Our author then gives the age required for initiation in various places. The rule of the Grand Orient of France is, however, specially interesting. The Orient of France," says the Doctor, Grand quires re' ' "
"
the the
son
candidate
a
to
be
twenty-one,
has
or
unless
some a
he
be portant im-
of
Mason,
served
who
performed
unless he be in the
young
who
has
six
months
army,
when
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
maphrodit according to Dr. Mackey, her(Masonic Ritualist,p. 62; Symbolism who excluded are of Freemasonry, p. 114). Those those who are as lacking in intellectual qualifications unable and write (Masonic Jurisprudence, to read are been pp. 116, 117), though exceptions have sometimes madmen made to this law; idiots and (Ibid., p. 117) ; fools (Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 281 ) ; atheists in (Encyclopcedia, Jews were long excluded p. 95). Germany (Encyclopediapp. 383, 384). On account slaves and born of political disqualifications, persons in servitude cluded; ex(Masonic Jurisprudence, p. 119) are also the sons of bondmen (Ibid.,p. 118). other place of confinement in prison or Persons any (Ibid., ought not be admitted p. 120). One might certainlyincline to believe that after
were,
all
these
restrictions
in
reference
to
internal
and
external
Masonic the
salvation
test.
are
would
case,
be open
to
all who
would
stand
The other
however,
of
is
quite otherwise.
in force. The
laws in
limitation the
must
apply
be
writing to
his
Lodge
two
nearest
place
himself the
of
residence, and
recommended
plicatio ap-
signed by
members of
122,
must
by
be
vestiga in-
qualifications of the candidate fore must (p. 131); a month elapse befinal action is taken by the Lodge (p. 132). If the report of the committee be favorable the Lodge proceeds to a ballot (p. 134), and unless every vote is in the candidate's ever, favor, he is rejected. If, howthere is one black ball only, the box is pro"
into
character
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
331
a new
nounced
'
foul,'and
in the
the
same
Master
orders
ballot,
be
which
is done
form,
because
it may
"
take that the negative vote was possible depositedby misever," If, howor inadvertence," says Dr. Mackey. he
continues,
"
on
the the
second candidate
ballot, the
is declared
one
black
ball
again
to
appears,
by
the Master
or as
be
rejected. If, on
the first
ballot,two
more
is announced black balls appear, the candidate the formality of without having been rejected,
second
"
ballot."
Mason,"
the
{Jurisprudence, pp. 137, 138.) he says later {Ibid., pp. 142, 143),
no
"
is
to responsible
casts
on
human
petitionof
is he
to
conscience have
course, to
alone
to
motives It
that
led
the
act, and
for
itself.
is, of
verse prejudice;or, by an adfeeling. But vote, to indulge an ungenerous influenced is or is not member whether by such a has a one no motives, or is indulging such feelings, be called to account can right to inquire. No Mason that he has deposited. A for the vote Lodge be is not members be
"
of this invaluable
right,
entitled indeed
has voted.
no
to
know
how
No
inquiryon
can
any this be
one
of
its
subjectcan
this
pendence inde-
entertained;
So
information
is the law the
to
received.
anxious
of the
preserve
ballot,as
power
Lodge,
; and
supreme to interfere
almost
all
to
in reference
justice that innotivithstanding cellent done to been have an upright and exmay of clear man by his rejection(and such cases sometimes occur), neither the Grand must injustice candidate
Lodge
nor
the
Grand
Master
can
afford
any
redress,
332
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
nor
can
versing dispensationbe granted for either reany the decision of the Lodge, or for allowing less
than
unanimous
ballot
even
to
be of
therefore,
the part of of p.
some
out
"
member,
"
there Dr.
be
no
eration re-consid-
his
petition," says
on
a mere
the
no
vote
Mackey
ject pursued this portion of our subof Masonic lence. benevothe spirit to show sufficiently the right of Masonry We not are discussing to limit its members; are we merely considering the in reference of its benevolence broadness, the universality treasure to humanity in imparting the priceless We think
we
which
of God
it claims and of of
to
Divine soul
true
"
Truth the
"
the
truth
sence es-
nature
and
first morality,whose in his him elements we see [the candidate] acquiring initiation. (Masonic Ritualist, p. 338.) To form a judgment in the matter, let us practical excluded make are a rough estimate of those who from deprived of all hope of Masonry and absolutely admission to its enlightenment.
both;
likewise
First, the
the whole
entire
female
race
sex,
or
about
and
one
half
of
human
is forever
cluded. absolutelyex-
Secondly, all male children under age, who add much than will certainly another to these more the physically Then the blind, fourth. come imperfect,
the deaf, the
children
of nature
here, who
denied the will with for the
on
of
of
elevation
their
which
pretendsto
hereafter.
humanity
and the
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE bondman's
333 the
bondman,
and
the the
children, and
further the
educated, un-
and
possiblemembers
the still
more. one
limit the
adverse Where
broadness,
are
the
versality uni-
if possible,
most
restrictions
added
tions, restric-
entirely independentof the free will of the candidate and incapable of removal? The of Masonry is the very opposite, fore, therespirit of It is the broad. sdect spirit of the few." Its models the pagan schools of philosare ophy the ancient and mysteries, the small inner
"
of
them
circle of which
looked
down
with
disdain
on
the
mon com-
herd,
themselves who
are
and
it fitted for
there
in the
the
esoteric
of Masonic the
vast
members
or
those
these ternity, Fra-
bask
fulness
light,and
bulk of the
Mackey, do not the true of Masonry, content know as even purpose Knife Fork the and they are to ornament degree," the Parrot degree,"or shine as or Bright Masons,"
to
" " "
and
believe Dr.
among Dr.
the exoteric
brethren.
various
Mackey
p.
in
112,
an
clusiveness
the maimed
by
of Moses excluded
by which
from there the
and
were
overlooks
never
the
point that
is
Divine
to
Truth
and
held
Jehovah of Jewish priesthood. The known and served Moses just as well was by women just as by the old. He was as by men ; by the young and served by all. The the God of all,known theory
the
334
of
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
is
must
essentiallydifferent.
be
true
a
Mason
to know
to
the
human
and
from every
important
from
to
morality; all others are this knowledge, though it human being. Exclusion,
bears those with
Masonry
Mosaic
different from
from the the
Let of
a
therefore, turn
to spirit,
care
for the
relief,in the
and the
accidental
benevolence
Masonry,
widowed
not
of
the
aged
That
over
orphan,
the
needy.
us
again
in
Although Freemasonry," says Mackey's Masonic is indebted for its origin to its Ritualist, pp. 46, 47, in the character, yet charity, religiousand philosophic comes, ordinary adaptation of relief for the distressed,bea although incidentally, prominent feature of its teachings. And hence it has been well said, that institution whose laws more there is no force, strongly enwhose the or earnestlyinculcate, precepts more virtue of charity." We williiigly grant the prominence given to this feature of Masonry, and we readily the grant as of good that there is in it ; we amount only wish that there And rnore. were were Masonry only that
"
"
which
so
many
believe
it to and
to
be,
mere
benevolent
destitute,consoling its
its dead, the
rest
further
of
mankind.
But,
have
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
335
seen,
the
Material
the evil and Masonry, therefore, the Church condemns the religious of Masonic and moral not the good errors principleand practice. It does not condemn the eleemosynary charity of the Craft, unless such benevolence be perverted into a bait to entice to, or cloak to cover, what is religiously false and Chrisa tianlywrong. have said, the good Admitting, therefore, as we that there is in Masonic let us eleemosynary charity, it is all that it claims to be: examine whether briefly
"
whether laws
more
it is true
that
"
There
or
is
no
institution
whose
more
strongly enforce
the virtue
whose
precepts
To
earnestlyinculcate
the matter "The
of
charity."
study
on
with
fairness,let
us
examine
the section
in Dr. Mackey's Right of Relief," contained Masonic Jurisprudence,pp. 222-231. As the duty of assisting indigent and distressed of the most is one important brethren," he says, laws of the and duties inculcated by the landmarks of claiming this assistance the privilege institution, so son. Mais one of the most important rightsof a Master law the call in Masonic It is what we technically Right of Relief,and will constitute the subjectmatter
"
"
of the
"
present section."
claim Old under he adds, relief,"
"
The
is
Charges
the head the
which of
were
distinctly approved
to
a
1722,
"
which,
'Behavior
following language: 'But if you discover him to be a true and genuine Brother, you are to respect him accordingly;and if
Strange Brother,' contain
he is in want,
direct him
relieve him
be
else
em-
336
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
him to be days, or else recommend ploy him some employed, but you are not charged to do beyond your only to prefer a poor Brother, who is a good ability,
man
and
true, before
"
any
other
people in
the
same
cumstance cir-
laid down," continues Dr. explicitly Masonic which has always been the one on Mackey, it and relief is claimed granted; and, on inspection, will be found that it includes the following four principles
"
The
law
"
thus
:
"
I.
"
The He
2.
"
his
grants.
any other
4.
Mason
same
preferredto
in the We
circumstances." ing, condition, merely remarkwhich qualifications narrowed down it has the field
required in
of
has
The blind, the deaf, eleemosynary assistance. in any way, the waif, the halt, the dumb, the maimed the feeble-minded, the decrepitthrough age, the unlettered, classes of the human all those family who need of eleemosynary relief, have most are absolutely excluded from Masonry, and hence from any rightto mitted assistance. have been adOnly hale and hearty men into the
Order,
men
of
certain
ordinary laws of nature, will be well fitted to provide for themselves and their the need that Masonry will be families, and hence called upon tion, calculato relieve, will, by every human
.who, according to
the be reduced
to
a
minimum.
Relief
cannot
will,indeed, be
fortune, prevent all misits
needed,
calculations has
so
Masonry
narrowed
that field,
338
alone
are so
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
and relief,
entitled to
only
The who
this
to
be the
the
widows
Masons,
disputed,but
one
which
we
have
The
giveris
not
expected
in the amount of relief that he ability ing grants: that is to say,"continues the Doctor, explainA Brother the meaning of the law, is expected to grant only such relief as will not materially injure himself or law, and family. This is the unwritten exceed
"
his
conformable
'
to not
it is
the
written
one
which
says
"
You This
are
"
the true
we
charged to do beyond your ability.' is not inconsistent he adds, with provision," of charity, which do not requirethat principles
"
should
sacrifice
our
own
welfare,
or
that
of
our
family,to the support of the poor ; but that with prudent and due the comforts of regard to liberality, a those who more are nearlydependent on us, we should make sacrifice of luxury out of our some abundance,
if
we
have
been
blessed
with
our
distressed
brethren."
(Masonic
the Masonic and
Jurisprudence, p.
rule of
relief, even
and goes
of
one
Master is
Masons
orphans; beyond a
The
to
abundance."
is to
same our
is,
"
Mason the
be
applicantin
"
identical
"
which
was
inculcated
author,
Great
Gentiles
us
As
unto
we
ago have
by
the
fore therees-
do
good
all men,
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
339
"
who of the household unto them of faith.' pecially are (Gal. vi, 10.) The principle thus taught by the Apostle," he continues, seems to have been, by the very necessities of which our has governed the charities nature, the principle and kindnesses of every religious community, of and every political every benevolent association, society that has existed before or since his day." As Dr. Mackey, like a true esoteric Mason, rejects the supernatural, he cannot conceive the possieven bility of rising above the natural sentiments of the human heart, sentiments good so far as they go, but from sentiments, for all that, imperfectas is the source which they spring. No one blames Masonry for giving
"
"
its
own
members
the
preference in
it is evident
on
cases
of
for, in such
have the
cases,
that its
charity. Masonry is in giving merely to its criticised for its exclusiveness and shall also own. They [the Master Wardens] consider the most of prudent and effectual methods and disposingof what shall be given collecting money in charity, toward the relief to, or lodged with them only of any true brother fallen into poverty or decay, else ; but every particular pose but of none Lodge shall disof their own charity for poor brethren according to their own by-laws, until it be agreed by all the regulation)to carry in the charity Lodges (in a new collected by them to the Grand Lodge at the quarterly annual a communication, in order to make or
"
first claim
its
common
stock
of it,for
the
more
handsome
relief of
poor
(Masonic Ritualist,pp. 256, 257, General Regulations.) would Neither clusiveness Masonry be criticised for this exsuch a parade of the unidid it not make
brethren."
340
of versality Brethren for
none
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
its
charity.
If the
Its
charity is
poverty
have
or
for
poor
.'.
who else.
have
decay, and
in that condition not they were their reception. Prosperity,or at least competency, fallen into poverty; the strengthof vigorous manhood undermined by age and necessitous; and these only within Order which the limits of an cludes rigorously exfrom its ranks the needy classes, such is the field can field of Masonic charity;if narrower proper be
found,
name
it.
not
It is therefore well
true, and
is
no
hence
it has
whose
more
not
"
been
more
institution
laws
culcate inearnestly the virtue of charity." (Masonic Ritualist, Christianityas identified with Catholicity p. 47.) which esoteric Masonry teaches and practices a charity combats because it puts Masonic bitterly charity to From its Divine the blush. Truth and its morality it
strongly enforce
whose
precepts
excludes
to to
. .
no
human
was
creature.
"
Art the
we
thou
he
that
art
come
"
the
question put by
"
the
,
Divine
"
Master
or
look said
"
And
answering, he
what
lame you have
to
Go
seen:
and the
to see,
John
the
heard
made
clean,
the shall
deaf
hear, the
scandalized
again, to
(Luke
in the
the
poor
gospel is preached.
not
"
blessed
is he whosoever
be
me."
in the hear fear
vii, 20-23.)
in the ye kill
That
which
that
I tell you
dark, speak ye
ear,
light;and
upon the the
which
housetops.
and
are can
you And
preach
that
body,
not
able to
them
fear him
that
X,
(Matth.
27,
destroy both soul and body in hell." 28.) Even for infants that have not
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
341
is salvation in the
reached
waters
the
of
age
of
reason,
there
Baptism
in the
; the
same
idiot born
way;
so
such, has
have
salvation
open
some
to
him
the insane, if
personal grievous sin, unrepented for, does not No of birth place an obstacle. maim, no misfortune
or sex
is
bar; and
the
slave
in his
chains, and
if
the
prisoner in
repentant, have
the
the
are
social outcast,
and
ignorant of
sincerelyworldly lore,
wide open select few
gates of the Christian Heaven for them, nay immensely wider, than
as
the
of this world
purple,feast
with their instincts, not sumptuously every day, war and keep the poor without their portals. This is true from which Masonry is forever cut ofJ by Catholicity, its essential Landmarks.
is eleemosynary charity Catholicity, something incidental and prominent. It is something Then shall the King say to them essential. that shall be on his right hand: Come, ye blessed of my Father, possess you the kingdom prepared for you For I was from the beginning of the world. hungry, and you gave and you gave to eat; I was me thirsty,
"
Neither, for
me
to
drink; I
you in
was
naked, and
I
was
in;
me
I say to
least
"
came
to me.
Amen,
brethren, you
he
:
did
say
you it to
to
did
me.
it to
one
of these my
shall be
Then
shall
them
me,
also that
on
Depart
was
from
fire which
angels.
eat; I
.
. .
For
was
you
me
gave
not
as
me
not
to etc.
was
gave
as
to
drink,
did
me.
long
you
it not
to
one
did you
do it to
And
342 these
shall
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
just, into
That
on
which
happiness or
not
eternal
reprobation rests,
it is essential.
incidental,is
hearts of the
dental, acci-
Hence
it is that Catholic
charity
Catholic
is
so
deeply
and
embedded
in the
to their proportionally in charitythan do times more give a hundred means, the rich. It does not seem to give strange for them is not for the rule of Catholic charity out of their little, the sacrifice of superfluities of abundance," but out
poor
middle
classes,who,
"
Love
"
one
another,"
he gave his
Christ,
on
as
you
and
the
cross.
The the
of
to
lessons
charity;but
wherever
even
the
crucifix
is offensive
Masonic
Masonry
sick
wearied
devoted
the to console hospitals their anguish, or when strengthen nature in their care. Catholic who have religious lives form be
to
in the
their in every
must
the of
service
of
distressed
and suffering,
without
or
disbanded, exiled,
cares
forced
to
marry,
so
that domestic
may
even
deprivethem
the
of the
to
time, the
ameliorate
or opportunities,
inclination
the
lot
of
the
Catholic
homes orphanages,hospitals,
aged, retreats for the outcast, etc., etc., must be confiscated together with endowments for their maintenance, robbing the poor
of their
rob
them
of their faith.
Alas
mercies
of the
brethren, you
Masonry
has
to
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
343
you. But
is taken
not
from
you
out
benevolence.
Brother least of
more
Brethren, if
not
as
necessitous
benefited of
our
by
race
the from
transfer the
funds;
of
influence
unpleasant to you, will, to the Order, have proved a profitable occupation. will But, after all," it will be urged, a Mason than a Catholic will help sooner help a Mason, much Catholic. and give the sign of I approach a Mason a I approach a Catholic distress;I am presentlyrelieved. and and make the sign of the cross, turned am empty-handed." away in Our objectoris innocent of true Masonic practice the matter, and is repeatingwhat he has heard from unauthentic He supposes that he has only to sources. find a Mason and give the sign to receive immediate
"
somewhat
and
bounteous is to
even
relief.
He
does
as
be examined
if he be in
know
need,
unless
he
is
a
"
son Ma-
standing, he is to be rejected with (Masonic Ritualist, contempt and derision." p. 250.) if he be In He does not know, 2dly, that, even in good standing,the Mason need, and be a Master he applies is not bound to help him brother to whom if sacrifice of luxury out of abundance save by some with it." he be blessed (Masonic Jurisprudence,p. law on the subject. Does 226. ) This is the Masonic our objectorpretendthat a deserving case brought to the attention of a Catholic blessed with abundance, with the comparative rareness peculiarto especially with as ready a rewould not meet sponse? Masonic charity, If he does, he knows nothing of Catholic good
"
344
MASONIC
BENEVOLENCE
charity.
Neither
if the
case
Catholic be
whether particular
or
not, whether
for
is
the
religionis co-
the
or
cross
or
not,
charityto
of
whatever
race
if he were not charityto his Master ; but even to give in a particular through how many case, consider his charityis flowing out to mankind, other channels for appeals to the comparativelyfew sincere Catholics wealth are ceaseless and from every quarter. possessing cities and seek institutions modern Go through our will meet whose at every of charity, and turn. you Masonry's or Catholicity's?Go through cities that Catholic lived when have charitycould freelyevolve and what that those magnificentstructures are itself, used for municipal and state purposes? for are now ? olic libraries ? for prisons ? for garrisons They are Cathand asylums, and convents, and hospitals. colleges, but eloquent witnesses There to the they stand, mute the very broadness of Catholic charity, governments that have so ruthlessly even plundered them, shrinking, from with tution, vast at command, resources making restiowing to the large outlay in money requiredto such buildings. Sift,therefore, kind reader, duplicate words the grain of Masonic from the chaff of Masonic deeds, and you will be surprisedto find how the seemingly great heap diminishes; and though Bro. Pike creed is
seems
to
widen
the
limits of Masonic
even
law
and
admit
deserving profanes, the title deserving is more captiousthan real. in its essential benevolence, more Limited restricted still in its incidental or eleemosynary benevolence. Masonry,
to
"
Masonic
benefits
"
the child
or
rival and
surpass;
but de-
CHAPTER
XVII
Masonic
History
To
open
we
up
the
way do
to
brief than
discussion
of the
Masonic words of
history
Bro.
cannot
better
on
quote
Mackey,
written
this
pp.
very
subject
paedia {Encyclohe
of Freemasonry,
will
"
296, 297).
and bias.
Certainly
he in
a
not
be is its
accused
of
prejudice
of
It
the
opprobrium
has that
never
Freemasonry,"
been and all that the written
not
says,
"
that
history
truth;
yet
spirit
has
of been
critical the
credulity
on
incredulity imagination
view have
'
foundation
have
which
Masonic
investigations
too
been
built;
to
often
'
lent of
enchantment
a
missing
links
chain
of
evidence
supplied
statements
by
gratuitous importance
of
invention;
have been whose
of
vast
carelessly
ticity authen-
by
not
are
the
testimony
documents
been
proved."
and
strong
is
plain words,
put;
"
but Bro. of
the
case,
even
stated.,
mildly
what
Mackey
the
calls
gratuitous by
"
invention
at
is, by others
called
Brethren,
as
the
world
large,
by
the
less
euphonious
"
title of And
plain forgery.
this
leads
me,"
:
the
Doctor,
of
to
the
important
to
question
be
How
so
history
the
sonry Freema-
written,
its
that and
narrative
shall
assent
win and
the
respect
of
enemies,
its friends?
probation ap-
of
346
MASONIC
HISTORY
347
"
"
In
the first
place we
strict definition of
synonymous ourselves the We with
begin," he says, by a the word Masonry. If we make it Freemasonry, then must we confine
must
to closely
that form
are
connected
with
organization. zation organisay that Masonry received a new restoration in the beginningof the eighteenth
We but
trace may not dissimilar
in
and
century.
with
an
this
older
masons corporationsof the Stonein the travelingFreemasons of it with the Colleges of connect Such a history will not want its truth ; and there
the
to substantiate
in conferring upon the Institution difficulty enviable antiquity." an We author, for nothing could agree in part with our be justerthan his contention that the historyof Masonry should really be the history of Masonry and of something else; that it should, consequently, not that are confine itself closely connected to the events in its present organization.But with the Institution here, until he has suppliedus with better proofs, we forced to disagree with him, and deny flatly that are he can, with authentic memorials, trace the history of ficient modern Masonry as he traces it. For it is not suf-
will be
that he
and and builders builders
a
shall
bodies
of
architects architects
in different shall be
that these
shall have
must
certain
much
were
prove
more
prove
bodies
sense
religiousbuilders
alone
"
Masonic God
and
"
; that
they
knew
"
the and
truth
essence
of the human
soul
the nature
of both ;
348
that and
MASONIC
HISTORY
they
that
and
practised
and truth
truth
identical these
"
"
clearlyestablished, and they are the essential pointsin the matter, Masonry's claims to antiquity have no standing in a critical and unbiased can
points
Not
we
court.
to
break
up
too
much
the
article of
Dr.
Mackey,
with
shall
content
present,
of what
Masonry
a
must
discussion
for
later
chapter.
"
But
if
"
we
confound
the term
Masonry,"
says
the
Doctor,
Moral the
as
Geometry, with Architecture, or with shall beget in the mind Science, we equallyof
and the
to
with
writer
can never
reader, such
any
confusion
of
ideas
has
been
on even
writers
result. And practical yet this the prevailing of all the great English error Masonry in the last,and, with a few exceptions, lead in the
present
as a
century.
At
one
moment
mysticalinstitution which,
to
familiar form, was existing Soon afterwards, perhaps on the same paragraph is found to refer, without
name,
any
to
long change of
a
under
the identical
or
term
Masonry,
of
the rise of
Architecture,
to the
"
condition
Thus
the
'
Origin
of
of Masonry,' of
from the
the
commencement
may
'
trace
foundation
adds
Ever
since symmetry
our
displayedher charms, gining.' But after we have find that it is not we chapter,
Order
be-
read
to
MASONIC
HISTORY
349
has been the
ferring, re-
we
know
and
that recognizeit,
some
the author
but to
to feeling,
great moral
man
virtue,to
which,
as
social
the love of
for man,
inherent
breast,must
have
existed from
"
valuable
services
Masonry, was unfortunately much too has outgiven to abstract speculations, heroded Herod,' and, in commenting on this passage of Preston proclaims that our science existed before the creation of this globe,and was diffused amidst the of numerous systems with which the grand empyreum universal space is furnished.' But on further reading, find that by Speculative we Masonry the writer means
to
'
which
rendered
'
'
on
the
belief of
God,'
not
and refer
the
to
fessing pro-
the
existence
of such
as
belief
among
"
the
who, intelligences
stars
on
he
supposes,
inhabit the
planetsand
he goes
traces
Anderson,"
of Eden
say,
is
more
Masonry only to
we
Adam
garden
but
soon
find that
he, too,
of different
Masonry
of
"
of
our
and that the things by the same name, the Freemasonry the primal patriarchis not day, but Geometry and Architecture.
Now
not
all
"
is to
may
"
write
mance, ro-
history.
be said to
fagons de parler rhetorical sound and no meaning. But flourishes, having much in books written by the reader meets with them when intended of eminence, professedly to give the true men a historyof the Order, he either abandons in disgust
be what the French
call
350
MASONIC
which has been
HISTORY]
treated
study
he because
with
so
much
or folly,
is led to
maintain adopt theories which he cannot In the former masonry Freecase, they are absurd. "in the latter,he is perhaps loses a disciple;
ensnared Masonic
:
"
be
stated author
how
cludes con-
No
could fotmder
to
a
that of
of
new
the
a
adopted
as
science,
that
by
to
recent
powerful
of facts the
"
"
vestiga in-
of historical truth
"
'
Not
to exceed not to
and take
not
fall short
not
to
add
and
whole
truth, and
truth, the
(p.297.)
in these closand beautifully ing so stating clearly lines the true principles which should guide history, it is to be regretted that Dr. Mackey should devote so large a portion of his Encyclopaediato the rehearsal of Masonic myths and fables ; myths and fables which had been palmed off as facts by the writers he so justly condemns. Take, for instance, the following regarding the originof Freemasonry. It is a theory of some Masonic writers," he says {Encyclopaediaof Freemasonry, p. 708), "that the of the Pure Primitive or principles Freemasonry were preserved in the race of Seth, which had always kept After
"
separate
from
that
of
Cain, but
a
that
after of
a
the
flood
they
became
corrupted by
established This
secession the
portion of spuriousFreemasonry
been very
theory has
extensively
MASONIC
HISTORY
351
The
advanced
erected
of the arts principles and sciences are mentioned though by Josephus. But althe old Constitutions speak of Seth, they ascribe the erection of these pillars of Lamech. to the children But in the high degrees of Masonry the erection is attributed
to
by Dr. by Seth
Oliver
pillars
preserve
to
Enoch."
tidbits of there
are
On
such But
historyare
other
cater to
Masonic
to
readers carry
on
galed. re-
fables Masonic
the
fable of Euclid
; the
fable of
King
Solomon
and
Temple. regard to this last,the remarks of Dr. Mackey are certainlyinteresting. In Masonry," he says, has {Encyclopedia, p. 798), "the Temple of Solomon when played a most important part. Time was every Masonic writer subscribed faith to with unhesitating the theory that Masonry was there first organized: that there Solomon, Hiram Abif of Tyre, and Hiram which Masters the Lodges over presided as Grand they had established;that there the symbolic degrees
"
With
were
and from
systems
that the
of
initiation the
were
vented; in-
period to
stream
passed
of
down and
of
succession modern
away method this
unaltered
form.
the
hand, and
as
those
with
which
on
the
the
structure
which
No
values
his reputation
to
critical historian
attempt
fend de-
its work.
was hypothesis
During accepted
352
MASONIC
HISTORY
as
the
in
events
and
now
characteristics of
almost
or
Solomonic of the
'
Temple. So Freemasonry
of the Lord
that
rests
'
all the
upon
is derived So
House
at
Jerusalem.
attempt
to
connected, that
would
to
separate the
be
the other
be
existence
Masonry. Each Lodge is and the Jewish Temple; each Master of the Jewish king; personationof the Jewish workman.
"
in the and
every
"
Thus
it must
ever
be," he continues,
must
while and
endures. that
connect
We
receive the
the
myths
Temple, not indeed as that historic not events as facts, but as allegories; but as symbols; and must have cept acreallytranspired, their and these symbols for what these allegories that they should be the foundations inventors meant really of a system of morality." It is all a fable," an edifice of the a myth," imagination," an invention,"yet it was taught as a during a long period,"by fact,and believed as a fact and it is on this fiction, writer ; this every Masonic I say morality is based. myth, this lie,that Masonic lie,"for to teach knowingly a myth as a fact is a sonic lie;and while it may be that the vast majority of Mathemselves writers were deceived,and hence were the same sinned againstthan sinning, be cannot more
it with
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
of the
to
inventors false.
and
first teachers
of
what
was
be
"
legend of Euclid is of a piecewith the former. old the All manuscript Constitutions," says Dr. the wellMackey {Encyclopcedia, p. 265), "contain
354
Euclid
answers
MASONIC
HISTORY
" '
the him
summons.
And
then
this
them
worthy
took
to
these
lords' sons,
and
taught
in stones to work Geometry in practice, of worthy works that belong to building all manner and manors, and all churches, temples,castles,towers other manner of buildings. And thus was the science grounded there ; and that worthy Master Euclid gave it the name of Geometry. And it is called through all this land Masonry.' now the science of
. . .
"
'
Dr. Mackey, legend,"comments is certainly historically, very absurd, and the which makes Euclid the
"
This
"
contemporary
Masonic
then
to
proceeds to
a
defend
it
as
convey
Masonic
lesson.
Masonry,
otherwise
Teacher,
such
by
cannot
origin of
moral
ditions con-
Masonry,
moreover,
are
which
that
satisfyMasonic harmony, as we
the lord be and forerunners
to
war
indeed anything but Christian, may for they are aspirations, perfectlyin have shown, with Masonic license; of that country were well fitted to of the Craft, for they were called not their
are
estates
with
instincts, any
of
more
than,
as
Pike
tells us,
the Brethren
to-day.
Pythagoras is contained in the Leland Manuscript,candidly admitted to be a forgery. (Efureader Our will permit us to cyclopcedia, p. 977).
modernize it. ?
"
fable of
"
How
came
it
is the
[Freemasonry]
answer :
into
England
"
it asks.
a
Here
Peter
Gower,
and
into which
Egypt
the
into
Venetians
land and
in
win-
MASONIC
HISTORY
355
ning
much
entrance
into all
and
Lodges
worked and
at
of in
Masons,
he
learned
and
a
returned
Magna
and France
great wiseacre
a
much
renowned, and
made and
he
formed
some
great Lodge
of whom
Groton
Masons,
many
journeyedto
in process
"
Masons,
to
whence
of
time,
the
art,
passed
"
England."
Dr.
with
Locke," continues
at
Mackey,
those
confesses
names,
that he Peter
was
first
puzzled
and
strange
; but
a
Gower, Groton
the Venetians
were
littlethinking
taught
The
him
that
they
and
Crotona Noachic
the
theory
is set
Mackey, in the opening chapters of his Symbolism of Freemasonry. all that is within the anPassing over," he says, tediluvian erted, historyof the world, as something that exfar as our so subjectis concerned, no influence
" "
on
the
new we
world find of
which
soon
the old,
forth from the ruins of sprang after the cataclysm,the immediate in the
descendants
Noah
possessionof
received
must
at
they
he
from
which
have
derived
Creator, Preserver,
as a
of the belief
necessary
the corollary,
from immortality of the soul, which as an emanation that primal cause, was to be distinguished, by a future the vile and and eternal life,from perishabledust forms its earthlytabernacle.' which The assertion," he continues, that these doctrines known to and were recognized by Noah, will not appear as an assumption to the believer in divine revela" "
356
tion.
come
MASONIC
HISTORY
But
to
other
"
it relates
to
some
innate,
in the human
or
universal
mind.
There
is
no
record
of
and intellectually any nation, however of a that has not given some evidence
belief.
be
The
grossly
the
the idea may be perverted, may but it is nevertheless there, and corrupted, sentiment whence it sprang."
shows
22,
source
(Symbolism, pp.
antediluvian
influence truths
on ing concern-
passes
over
the
tory histhe
exercisingno
received soul is
a
"
new
world, when
God
who and the
Noah human
the
from
the line of
archs patriNoah,
preceded him,"
hard did
to not
answer.
question that
would
find
Why
with
him?
start
if the truths
true
start
of of
If
an
influence world
and
powerful
forth
fluence in-
on
the
new
which
sprang
from
the ruins
If, secondly,these
mind back the
to
as our
natural
are
to
we
the
man hu-
author
asserts, then
carried
mind,
to
Adam
Dr.
in Paradise, to
theory
the
Oliver, which
no
Mackey
has
jected. re-
There In
doctrine
logical beginning with Noah. third place, the Doctor has injected into the of Noah Masonic, a a theory essentially
soul
as an
theory
of the human
emanation
to
from
the Supreme
as
Being,
theory as repugnant
right reason
MASONIC
HISTORY
357 How
the
to
the revelation
or
to
which
to
he
appeals.
that
a
does
he
prove,
even
attempt
Noah
prove, such
immediate
To
run
a
descendants doctrine
of
of such
held
theory?
in under wide-reaching consequences of the general belief in the immortality of the cover Noah foundation soul, is supremely dishonest. as a for Masonry is consequently no solid than the more
rest.
How
the
uncertain
even
to
Masons
themselves
has
been
Dr.
origin and source whence first sprang the institution of Freemasonry, have such as we it," he says (Encyclopcedia now of ence differFreemasonry, p. 556), "has given rise to more Masonic scholars of opinion and discussion among tion. than any other topic in the literature of the InstituWriters on the historyof Freemasonry have, at its origin to the following different times, attributed Patriarchal To the i. religion. 2. To sources: the Ancient Pagan Mysteries. 3. To the Temple of the Crusaders. the King Solomon. 5. To 4. To ficers. Collegesof ArtiKnights Templar. 6. To the Roman of the Middle the Operative Masons 7. To tury. Ages. 8. To the Rosicrucians of the sixteenth cen9. To
of his Oliver
is evidenced theories
"
by
the
fact that
of such
originpropounded
The
Cromwell,
10.
for To
the
advancement
the
Pretender, for
to at
the restoration
throne. of
11.
of
Stuart
the the
To
Sir
Christopher Wren
12.
Cathedral.
in the year
To
Dr.
Desaguhers
of these the
and
his
171 7. time
to
Each
twelve twelfth
has
a
been, from
time, and
with
recent
much
their advo-
358
cates.
MASONIC
HISTORY
few but
of
long
since been
and
abandoned,
attention
My
the
article
Antiquity of
the reader
scholars
sought Mackey
the
And alone
to
yet
the
to possess race,
and
supply
pure,
unadulterated
article in matter
truth
inveighs who the date of origin, them of little judgment, but the as men mences connected, reliable Masonic historycomMackey
It is called the
and
this date.^
revival,but it
as we
it at present. The
occurrences
place in the city of London, in the year 1717," he says (Encyclopcedia, pp. that important body, which has 645, 646), "when since been known the Grand as Lodge of England, was in Masonic organized,have been always known history the Revival of Masonry.' Anderson, in the first as edition of the Constitutions,' publishedin 1 723, speaks of the Brethren having revived the drooping Lodges
'
'
of
London;
but
In
he
makes
no
other
reference
to
the
transaction.
1
his second
wrote
generation ago) Freemasons] affirms that the premier Grand Lodge of England, organized of all regular Masonic 24 June, 1717, A. D., is the mother lodges of the three craft degrees. ." Still(Bro. Henry Leonard in the 32", Masonic nity." FraterEncyclopedia Americana, s. v. son,
than
a
"
the
"
MASONIC
HISTORY
359
there
given is the only authority we made in possess of the organization Preston and all subsequent writers have 1717: of derived their authority from course Anderson. The transactions are thus detailed by Preston (Illust. p. is preferred as containing in a 191), whose account
more
he is
and diffuse,
the account
succinct form
has
more
tailed. deprofusely
"
'
On
the
and
accession its
of
George I,
the
Masons
in
London
of
environs, findingthemselves
Christopher Wren, and their annual discontinued, resolved to cement themselves under a Grand new Master, and to revive the communications and annual festivals of the Society. With this view, the Lodges at the Goose and in St. Paul's Gridiron Church-yard ; the Crown in Parker's Lane, near Drury Lane; the Apple-Tree Tavern, in Charles Street, CoGarden ; and the Rummer vent and Grapes Tavern, in Channel Row, Westminster, the only four Lodges in being in the South of England at that time, with some other old brethren, met at the Apple-Tree Tavern in February, 171 7; and having voted above mentioned
the oldest constituted in due
form. Master Mason
a
Sir
deprived meetings
then
themselves At this
Grand
meeting it was
of
hold
Quarterly Communications
hold of the
next
the
and
annual the
assembly
and
June at Church-yard
which Grand
Master of
Goose
Gridiron, in
to
St.
Paul's
the
oldest of
purpose
Lodge, electinga
have
the honor
"
noble
their head
. .
.'
"
"
that
Mackey,
this
claim
but organized,
36o
only
those revived modern
MASONIC
HISTORY
in
171 7, has
been
attacked
by
which
some
of anything is not
iconoclasts who
even
refuse any
credence
to
or traditional,
to
record
supported by
among in his
numerous
other
of Freemasonry 1872), has* attacked the antiquity existence anterior and refuses to give it an His exact to the year theory is that our sys1717. tem in of degrees,words, grips,signs, etc., was not until about ever, existence admits, howa. d. 171 7.' He elements of that certain of the or groundwork the degrees existed before that year, but not confined to the Masons, to all the guilds. He being common
(187 1
and
'
'
'
thinks
that
was
indebted
to
the And of
ventive inhe
an
genius of
supposes ancient that it
and
'
Desaguliers.
a
simply
some
reconstruction of it old
was
viz.,of society,
Hence,
but he
a
form that
'
Pagan
not
a
losophy phi'
contends
vival,' re-
only
the
'
renaissance
and
he
explains his
meaning
" '
in the
following language :
had naissance rea eighteenth century we of Pagan architecture; then, to follow suit, in the eighteenthcentury we had renaissance in a a dress of Pagan mysticism; but for neither new are indebted to the Operative Masons, we although the made of in both cases.' use were Operative Masons {London Freemason, September 23, 1871.) Buchan's has been attacked theory,"says Dr. Mackey, I. by Bro. William J. Hughan and Chalmers Patton. That he is right in his theory,that the three degrees of Master, Fellow Craft, and Apprentice were
"
Before
"
unknown
and
to
the
Masons
classes
of
the
seventeenth
as
century,
that these
existed
only
gradations of
362
til
1
MASONIC
HISTORY
7 17.
Freemason,
to
and
the events
of The
the of
profession."
Operative Masonry into Grand Masters of Speculative to Masonry, seems indeed invention of sufficient magnitude; but us an Dr. Mackey himself, in treating of Anderson, will tell that he invented. of more us plainly In giving an of Anderson's life and sonic Maaccount labors {Encyclopaedia, literary p. 68), he speaks masonry Constitutions of the edition of the Ancient of Freeis in 1723. Its intrinsic value," he says, derived only from the fact that it contains the first printedcopy of the Old Charges and also the General Regulations. The historyof Masonry which precedes these, and constitutes the body of the work, is fanciful, unreliable,and pretentiousto a degree that often leads Craft is greatlyindebted son to absurdity. The to Anderfor his labors in reorganizingthe Institution,but
patrons
" "
transformation
doubtless himself
it would with
have
been
better
if he had
contented
giving the records of the Grand Lodge from contained in his second 1717 to 1738, which are edition, and with preserving for us the charges and his industry,might have regulationswhich, without
been lost. No
Masonic
as
writer
would
now
venture
to
authority for the history of the Order anterior the eighteenth century. It must to that in the republication also be added of the Old several important Charges in the edition of 1738, he made alterations and which interpolations, justly offence Grand to the some Lodge, and which gave render the second edition of no spect." authority in this requote
Dr. Anderson
Anderson
MASONIC
HISTORY
363
1738, and his inventions and interpolations portant imwere so to destroy the value as of his second edition. His history, in the first place, the prodwas moreover, uct of an inventive imagination, for it was fanciful, unreliable,and pretentious to absurdity." What we know of the so-called revival in 171 7, we know solely such on authority. On what ground does Dr. Mackey assert that here there so invenpositively was no
"
'
tion ?
given of the meeting of 1717, our reader has learned, perhaps to his surprise, that taverns the first temples in which were Masonry revealed to its
initiates the
true
In
the account
nature
of
God
and
of
the
human
imparted true morality. For a long time after the revival of Masonry in Dr. Mackey 1 717," says sonry, {Encyclopcedia of Freemato meet, Lodges continued p. 327), "Masonic done before that period,in taverns. Thus as they had the Grand Lodge of England was organized,and, to the language of Anderson, the quarterly use nications commurevived were by four Lodges whose respective the Goose and Gridiron places of meeting were the Apple-Tree Ale-House, Ale-House, the Crown For and Grapes Tavern. Tavern, and the Rummer ings Lodge held its quarterlymeetmany years the Grand sometimes the at Apple Tree, but cipally printhe Devil at Tavern, and kept the Grand hall of one of the Livery companies. Feast at the The first Lodge in Paris was organized at a tavern kept in the Rue des Boucheries by one Hure, and the Lodges subsequently organized in France continued to The cushouses. tom meet, like those of England, in public was long followed in other countries of Europe. In America, the practice ceased only at a comparatively
" '
'
soul,and
364
recent
MASONIC
HISTORY
is
possiblethat
abandoned."
the first
in
some
obscure
been
were
temples to the one Here the true was deity,the Jehovah of Masonry. in contemplaaltar; here the true tion worshipers met Here the divine attributes. was on imparted to the true Masonic them lightin which they learned the soul. Here of God and of the human true nature they It is true these were rude, sang their sacred hymns. and festive in their nature, and are and coarse, rejected refinement Masonic {Encyclopedia,pp. by Modern all in the matter, it was 725, 726), but then, what Devil Tavern, the favorite meeting place of the Brethren of the day. At as early a period as the beginning of the fourteenth century,"continues our author (p. 327), "the Guilds or Livery Companies, of London, had their halls or places of meeting, and in which they stored their mean buildings, goods for sale. At first these were smith's into importance,and the Goldbut graduallythey rose
"
Hall, erected
have been
an
edifice of
appearance. very
common
in
and of imposing large dimensions These halls, probably, as they were the eighteenthcentury, were tive suggesof similar edifices for their
own
to the Freemasons
Fraternity ;
grew
but
in
convenient, and
the Association as undoubtedly the necessity, of a more more importance, respectable, than was afforded more secure locality
resort
to
by temporary
have
own
taverns
and
ale-houses, must
edifices for
their
led
to
the
erection
of
isolated
use." special
If the halls of the
Guilds
for Guild
building halls
and
not
suggested to themselves,if
Freemasons Masons
met
in
halls, it is evident
that
MASONIC
modern
HISTORY
365
of
Freemasons
are
not
the
lineal descendants
descendants,they
meeting placesof
needed
no
predecessors and
in the matter
tions sugges-
"
The
Hall
of which
we
"
have
any
count," ac-
is the one Mackey goes on to say, that erected by the Lodge of Marseilles in France, in was the year In 1772, the Grand 1765. Lodge of England made for the preliminaryarrangements construction of a hall,a considerable sum having been ." already subscribed for that purpose. (p. 327-) In America," he to be Lodges continued says,
... . .
"
"
period.^ It is not considered now ready reputable;although, as has been alremarked, the custom is, perhaps, not entirely in remote discontinued, especially country villages. It is impossible to tell at what precise period and in what the first Masonic hall was erected in this counlocality try.
up
to
a
held in taverns
very
recent
It is true
that in
xv,
Boston
paper
of
1773
we
find
(Moore's Mag.,
the Masons
^
"
162), an
advertisement
ing summon-
John
the
been well informed tired by those who have rethe meetings of the Free that their principal Masons inducement the dangers of immorality which to shun attended was those meetings. They did not accuse the institution of masonry that having imrnorality for its object, but they assured me as intemperate drinking, obscene conversation, and indelicate songs, to almost nothing of other vices, were always the consequences say ceremonies of holding a lodge; and that there were not sides Beconsistent with occasions. certain practised on decency very I have these often heard that the most general reasons, those which held in small improper meetings of all were are
. . .
from
in general, they villages,or at solitary taverns ; that country the vices for intemperance and which follow rendezvouses were it." McElhiney, January 7, Bishop. John Carroll to Michael Catholic Historical Researches, New (GrURn's American 1794. Series, vol. iv. No. i, pp. SS-S6.)
"
366
Evangelist
we
MASONIC
HISTORY
at
'
Freemasons'
this
was no
Hall other
;' but
than
a
on room
learn
that
buildings,such as the for Masonic used only partially were subsequently erected in Boston, purposes, and received by courtesy, but not by right, the name Masonic of not until 1832 that the Halls; but it was first independent hall was built in that city, which received the of the Masonic name Temple, a title which the has since been on generally conferred very halls in the larger cities." convivial The origin of the English Lodges is again masonry, touched on by Dr. Mackey {Encyclopcediaof Freep. 521). In England," he says, Lodges do not appear to
Dragon Tavern. Exchange Coffee-House,
Green
'
Other
'
"
"
have of
were
distinctive
names
before that
the
century.
Up
to
period
Lodges
Thus, in distinguished simply by their numbers. the first edition of the Book of Constitutions,published find a list of twenty Lodges, registered in 1723, we by
their
numbers,
from
were
'
No.
'
to
'
No.
20,' inclusive.
Subsequently they
of the tavern in the second
at which
edition
designatedby the name they held their meetings. Thus of the same work, published in
further
with list of one six hundred and meet a 1738, we Lodges designated sometimes, singularly enough, as Tavern, in Queen Street ; Lodge No. 6, at the Rummer No. 84, at the Black Dog, in Castle street; or No. p8,
at
the
Tavern,
in
Little
are
Bush
not to
such the
so
'
names
localities, we
his Book he
three
glasses of punch,' of
'
which
feelinglyspeaks in
nor,
as
appreciated ;
duly
some
MASONIC brethren
HISTORY
367
have the allowance
who
displayed an
"
anxiety to
Freemasons,
increased.'
In should
a
71 7, the
body
of
if, indeed,
we
dignifythe
consisted in
smallness
of their numbers
by
such
term,
of Entered
Apprentices or
the merest
Freemasonry. The mass of the Fraternitybeing at that time composed of Apprentices," says Dr. Mackey pedia, {Encyclothey exercised a great deal of influence p. 82), in the legislation of the Order ; for although they could cations not represent their Lodge in the Quarterly Communiof the Grand could only a duty which Lodge, be discharged by a Master Fellow, or yet they were always permitted to be present at the grand feast, and General no Regulation could be altered or repealed
"
"
" "
novices
without of
their
consent;
and, of
course,
ness busimost
their
particularLodges, they
but few Masters lows Felor prominent part, for there were in a Lodge, in consequence of the difficulty and inconveni of obtaining the degree, which could only of the Grand be done at a Quarterly Communication Lodge. vested inBut the subordinate as soon as Lodges were with the power of conferringall the degrees,the Masters began rapidly to increase in numbers, and in And the bulk of the corresponding influence. now, of Master Masons, the legislation Fraternity consisting is done exclusively of the Order by them, and the Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts have sunk into comparative obscurity,their degrees being considered only as preparatory to the greater initiation of the Master's degree." Dr. Mackey here states as a fact,that, namely, What
"
368
in and
MASONIC
HISTORY
the
revival
Fellow
elsewhere
already Masters us Crafts, he is kind enough to inform {Encyclopaediaof Freemasonry, pp. 692,
so-called,there
were
693),
" "
lacks
all historical
evidence.
The
we
first have
positivehistorical
of the existence of General
evidence,"
a
that be
Master's
says, degree is
he
to
found
in the
Payne
must
in 1720. be
admitted
Regulations compiled by It is there declared that Apprentices Masters and Crafts Fellow only in
would that
not
the Grand
militate
Desaguliers
he of have mits ad-
its author
in 171 7
"
."
.
.
Documentary
a
evidence
to
is yet
little
later,
the be
not
settle the
wanting," precisetime
we now
the
it.
composition of
But it would
third
degree
as
prudent to
be traced
theory that
it must
eighteenthcentury. The proofs as they arise day by of old manuscripts,seem day, from the resurrection Dr. Mackey has forgotten here, to incline that way." what he has so vigorously denied elsewhere, that, he calls them, invented anyas namely, the revivalists, thing.
That
England
our
is the
mother
of
modern
author p.
472).
proves He is
The in French word," he says, Lodge." appears as loge; German, loge; Spanish, logia; Portuguese, dence eviloja; and Italian loggia. This is irrefragable that the word
was,
"
"
with
the
Institution,derived
by
the continent So
of
Europe
from
a
England."
initial
"
fact.
First the
ritual
makers,"
says
370
been
MASONIC
HISTORY
is
now
closes
with
the remark,
'
Krause
could
have
it is difficult to champion of its authenticity, conjecture. Possibly,however, the explanation may be, that in impostures of this character, credulity oil the one the part, is a strong temptation to deceit on to deceit of which other, especially no personal injury is the consequence, and which flatters the student of old documents with his own ingenuity.' These remarks,"
quoted as specially all apocryphal documents. The relating to almost of Cologne is the 37th manuscript fifth,the Charter mentioned in Dr. Mackey's schedule {Encyclopcsdia, p. believed by him to be of no 634, also p. 173), and was
are
continues
Bro.
McClenachan,
"
value.
as
Bro. careful
Gould and
cites
Bobrik
and
Dr. who
decisive
examiners
of of
script. pronounced againstthe genuineness of the ManuThe sixth, the Larmenius Charter, or Charter which the claim rests Transmission, is that upon
'
cessors Temple to being the lineal sucof the historic Knights Templars, which was not 1804 and 1810; and its published until between earlier history,if indeed it has one, is so tainted with of unravelling imposture, as to remove any possibility the tangled web of falsehood in which the whole tion quesis enveloped.' The is voluminous, argument following and Bro. Gould's History should be consulted." Masonry, therefore, established in England in 171 7, and diffused soon after over the Continent of Europe, modified itself differently with the passing of time and
the
Order
of
the
MASONIC
HISTORY
371
in
England tried to Christianize it,but failed; for, little by little, the Christian interpretation was rejectedas unsuited to a cosmopolitan institution, altar Jew and at whose Brahmin and Mussulman might kneel. Preston, according to Dr. Mackey, was the first to little Masonry had give Masonry a philosophy. How to start the divine guide of with, in order to become
tells humanity, he clearly
to
"
"
the difference of
place.
us.
It is sufficient, however,
with
masonry, say," says the Doctor (Encyclopcedia of Freethat he [Preston] has presented us p. 453), philosophical ing system of Masonry, which, comthe unscientific had been and the tails scanty de-
immediately after
which
up
to
his
time
have
midst
forth There
ant
of
was
sun
no
from
the
the unexpectabout
to
"
shine
upon
without
or
any
to
Prestonian fulness
given
and for the
to
the
Order
of
in all their
richness
who
morning and found himself famous. PersonifyingFreemasonry, she too might have said, the day that Preston on propounded his system, that the sleep of half a from awakened she had been
century
to
find
not
herself
science.
Not
that
sonry Freema-
always been a science, but that for all that time, and longer, her science had been dormant in abeyance. From been had 171 7 the Craft had but more been engaged in something less profitable,
had
"
372
MASONIC
HISTORY
science. congenial than the cultivation of Masonic The of punch, the pleasant suppers, the modicums which would harmony of song, the miserable puns have provoked the ire of Johnson beyond anything that Boswell time for inquiring has recorded, left no into
abstruser
matters.
The
us
revelations
of
Dr.
Oliver's square
of and the if low
we
furnish
state
need
evidence positive of Masonic literature in those days; negative proof, we will find it in the
abundant
entire
absence
of any readable book sonry, Scientific Maon until the appearance of Hutchinson's and Preston's
works. the
Preston's
lectures
were,
therefore,
doubtedly un-
in the esoteric era inaugurationof a new system of Freemasonry." therefore in 1772, according to Dr. Mackey, It was that esoteric Masonry, as we have it at present, really took its start. We think, however, that his remarks should be restricted to English Masonry; for on the Continent, Masonry alreadyhad far other designs than convivial banquets. mere Because true Masonry, unemasculated, bore the banners of Freedom and in Equal Rights, and was rebellion against temporal and spiritualtyranny," Bro. Pike (Morals and Dogma, p. 50), "its says Lodges were proscribed in 1735, by an edict of the
"
States
of Holland.
in France. them
In
XV.
forbade
them
XII. issued
against
was
his famous
Excommunication,
and in 1743 The
which
renewed
Berne
by
also
Benedict
XIV;
of of of
proscribedthem.
'
Clement
is,
The de
Condemnation Libert
Society
the
sons, Muratori, or of the Freemation, penalty of ipso facto excommunicafrom which is reserved
to
absolution
the
MASONIC
HISTORY
373
Pope alone, except at the point of death.' And by it all bishops,ordinaries, and were powered eminquisitors to punish Freemasons, as pected vehemently susof heresy,' and to call in, if necessary, the help of the secular arm the civil authority ; that is,to cause
*
to
put them
That
the
to
death."
was
Pope
right in suspectingFreemasons
of Catholic doctrine, has been heresy in matter times over in our proved a hundred preceding pages; the doctrine of Masonry is purposely framed in diametrical oppositionto Catholic teaching: that the Pope in excommunicating those who was justified rejected Catholic doctrines is admitted by every fair-minded for such action is common to every society person, sonry whose laws and regulationsare violated, and Mamembers excommunicates just as every other. Expulsion," says Dr. Mackey {Encyclopcedia, p. the highest that 270), "is, of all Masonic penalties, of
"
can
be inflicted been
often
on
member
a
of the
Order, and
It
hence
deprives that he the expelled of all the rights and privileges of the particular ever enjoyed,not only as a member Lodge from which he has been ejected,but also of
it has those
called
Masonic
death.
which
were
inherent
in him is at
once
as
a as
member
of the
vested completely diof his Masonic character, as though he had while been admitted, so far as regards his rights, never firm as ever, it remain as his duties and obligations for any human to cancel them. being impossible power the aid of his Brethren, nor He no can longer demand requirefrom them the performance of any of the duties visit any which he was formerly entitled, nor to monies Lodge, nor unite in any of the publicor privatecere-
Fraternity at large. He
of
the
Order.
He
is considered
as
without
374
the
aware
MASONIC
HISTORY
pale, and
of his
it would
be
criminal
in
any
Brother,
with expulsion,to hold communication him Masonic subjects." Call it expulsion or call on does the change of name not it excommunication, Bro. Pike, however, affect the nature of the thing. What voking in the last place, that, namely, the insays the of the secular arm meant causing of the Masons civil power to put to death," is either the shameful slander. In grossest ignorance or the most
"
every
Protestant the
country
arm
where
there
is in
State
secular in
is invoked,
of such
certain
defence the
to
religion. No
of it the
was
one,
arm
however,
with the countries
was
confounds
invoking
death. So Church.
secular
sentencing
with
in Catholic secular
arm was as
the Catholic
The
invoked
penalty imposed
Now,
times the
some
proportioned to
Bro. Pike rebellion power,
to
if,
were
asserts, the
in
against the
it
can
ecclesiastical
were
not
be
remarkable
that
put
a
death.
Rebellion What
against the
capital offence.
were
not
so
ing slander-
the in
Church
rulers, Masons
should,
at their
moderation.
history of those times, as pictured by Bro. Pike (Morals and Dogma, pp. 325, 326, 327), sonry," Mais anything but flattering to the Fraternity. in error. Instead he says, long wandered its primitivesimplicity, of improving, it degenerated from and retrograded toward a system, distorted by a stupidity^nd ignorance, which, unable to construct beautiful machine, made Less than a complicatedone. hundred two simple. years ago, its organizationwas
"
"
MASONIC
HISTORY
375
and allegories, their purpose confined to
and
altogethermoral,
easy
to
its
emblems,
It
ceremonies and
a
be be
understood, and
seen.
to objectreadily
was
then
of
There
could
be
seen
the
primitive Christianity, organized into Masonry, the school of Pythagoras without ities absurdor incongruities in which it was ; a Masonry simple and significant,
not
necessary
to
torture
the
mind
at
to
discover
able reason-
once
citizen
Innovators that
and
inventors," he
continues,
turned over-
gaged primitive simplicity. Ignorance enin the work of making degrees,and trifles and absurd and pretended mysteries, hideous, or gewgaws Truth. The pictureof usurped the place of Masonic the poniard and the bloody head, horrid vengeance, a out appeared in the peaceful Temple of Masonry, withsufficient explanation of their symbolic meaning. shocked with their object, Oaths out of all proportion then became the candidate, and ridiculous,and were exposed to tests, wholly disregarded. Acolytes were and compelled to perform acts, which, if real, would chimeras, were have been abominable; but being mere preposterous, and excited contempt and laughteronly. Eight hundred degrees of one kind and another were and invented: even taught Jesuitry were Infidelity of the rituals even The of Masonry. the mask under rant respectabledegrees, copied and mutilated by ignoand nonsensical trivial;and the became men,
words
so
corrupted that
to
recover
it has
hitherto
at
been all.
found
possible im-
many
of them
Candidates
376
were
MASONIC
HISTORY
made
insults not
"
to
submit
to
honor."
"
Hence
it
was," Bro.
and
Pike
to
say,
that,
fore be-
degrees
claimed
by
the it
Ancient
Accepted
Scottish
Rite, and
by
the Rite of
jejune merely communicated, and their rituals became resembled those old These Rites and insignificant. castles, the different parts of palaces and baronial from one other, anwhich, built at different periods remote plans and according to tastes that greatly upon discordant and varied, formed a incongruous whole. and Judaism and chivalry,superstition philosophy, geance, philanthropy and insane hatred and longing for vena pure morality and unjust and illegal revenge, found and in were strangely mated standing hand hand and within the temples of Peace Concord; and the whole one system was grotesque commingling of and contradictions, of incongruous things,of contrasts pugnant shocking and fantastic extravagances, of parts refine conceptions overlaid to good taste, and and disfiguredby absurdities engendered by ignorance, fanaticism, and a senseless mysticism." An ble impossiempty and sterile pomp," he adds, indeed to be carried out, and to which no meaning whatever attached, with far-fetched explanations was that were either so selves themor stupid platitudes many needed an interpreter; lofty titles, arbitrarily
" "
assumed,
and
to
to
which
any
the
inventors
had
that
not
attach of the
explanation
should
them
titles and power, and the Initiate feel ashamed." And this is the
follyof assuming temporal rank, of nobility, made the world laugh, historyof Masonry,
written
by
one
CHAPTER
XVIII
Is
American
Freemasonry Freemasonry
One ?
with
European
It is
sincerely
often
to
to
be
regretted simply
that
as
the it
present
tion ques-
is too
stands,
the
without words
are
attending
may liable If the of in
to
the
; and
meanings
affirmer beset
express
to
denier
find
by
and
serious if he
answerer
Catholic American
deny
European
words
Freemasonry,
different
asserting
it is hard action of
plain
see
they
places
are
things,
the
how
consistently
the ban
defend
upon
his
Church,
and with
which
alike,
excommunicates his
the brother.
equally
affirm of is
European
of the
again,
meet
a
if he
storm
the
identity
from upon
to
seems
two,
and the
he
protest
called
Mason
alike, and
of
he
explain
to
spirit and
two,
pean Euro-
action
exist
Masonry
American how has
being
this
rabidly
is
Freemasonry
explain
not.
two
are
the
same,
difference?
the
reader,
anti-Catholic has
who
already perused
of American and
chapter
Pike
on
spirit
to
Freemasonry;
Bro. attended Sherman
hstened the
Bro.
Mackey
who has Bro.
over
Brethren;
the
; and
Lodge,
fortunate
presided
to
over
by
enough
glance
the
official
letter
378
AMERICAN
Bro.
of
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
379
Lemmi,
will
easilyknow
same
that
as
the
esoteric
spirit
If its
Masonry
is the
here and
elsewhere.
manifestation
is less open
less
it is because bitter,
existingcircumstances not us are among propitious; because the large number of exoteric Masons among for whom men of religious us, are tion toleraprinciples are sincere,and not a flimsymask and empty and who not are name, prepared to subscribe to open
hate; because
of the
even
cannot
natural than
on
American of them
and,
from enemy. open
to
more
all,because
of
ever
most
the continent
Europe, apostates
the
a
faith.
One the who
An
apostate is
has
never
most
bitter
not
been
Catholic, is
He may
Catholic
no
his
fellows. with
have
associate
Catholics,and
Craft. real But
reason
Mason
doubt
his
loyaltyto
if there
the
the for
be
no
to the Church
will be Peter
to
curse
and that, like misinterpreted by his associates, in the palace of Caiphas, his only resource is and
swear
that he knows
not
the
Christ.
culpable In-
ignorance is consistent with fairness, as is also inculpable bigotry; culpableignorance or malice, culpablebigotry,never. Inculpableignorance in the since lack of home apostate, while not an impossibility, lack of religious instruction,lack of practitraining, cal in parents, etc., may bring it about, is at religion the exception;the contrary is the rule. most overlook the preceding But let us, for the moment, of the and make an independentinvestigation chapters, This much-mooted of Masonry. unity or oneness question is of prime importance,and well merits our careful study.
38o
The
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
oneness,
therefore, of
of
oneness
which
oneness
there
of
is
tion, ques-
may and
or,
rest.
be
oneness or
rite; or
of
ment govern-
head;
spirit;
of the
oneness lastly,
of
doctrine^which
of these
"
How
far in each
senses
American
to or generalizethe European Freemasonry, how far is Masonry throughout the world, proposition, Let this be our ? one question. in rite. Dr. Mackey clopaedia {EncyMasonry is not one of Freemasonry, pp. 649, 650) numbers different rites. The originalsystem of thirty-seven consisted of only the Speculative Masonry," he says, Craft three symbolic degrees, called, therefore, Ancient the condition of Freemasonry at Masonry. Such was
and
"
"
of what the
in 171 7.
Hence,
union
'
of
originalRite or approved usage, and so in England until the year 18 13, when at the two Grand Lodges the Holy Royal
'
was
declared
to
as
be
part of the
more
system
; and
the York
English, or,
Rite
was
it is
commonly
called,
of
made
to legitimately
consist
degrees.
But
on
the
continent
at
are a
of
Europe,
of
new
systems began
of what of
one
much known
the invention
a
the
multitude in
Rites
was
established.
agreed
upon
the
three
built important essential. They were stance, symbolic degrees, which, in every inthe fundamental
constituted
they
an pansion exThey were and ideas contained development of the Masonic in these degrees. The Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master's the porch through which and degrees were initiate was required to pass before he could every were
erected.
which
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
381
had
were
gain
entrance
into
the
inner of
erected
by
the
founders
text, and
"
the
I have
said," he continues,
of these their
has have
been lived
multitude with
in
only
energy
authors, and
their
exert
parental
itself.
fostering them
had
to
a
ceased
Others
have
more
permanent
the Masonic
existence, and
ing, family, furnishhowever, only diverse methods of attainingto the same of Divine Truth great end, the acquisition by Masonic light. Ragon, in his Tuilier General, supplies with the names of a hundred and eight, under us
still continue
divide
and
Academies."
But
is,therefore, no
does
"
unity
with
not, the
as
this lack
us,
fere inter-
essential
oneness
of
the
Masonic
of attaining family; they are but different methods and the Masonic God the knowledge of the Masonic soul by means of Masonic light. of government has Neither or Masonry oneness if we take the whole tered scatbody of Masons headship, deed, throughout the globe. The Scottish Rite, insuch unity and has established its nearer comes to emphasize its antagonism to headquarters in Rome Rite and others similar, the Papacy; in the American is by independent Grand the government Lodges. "A Grand (EncycloLodge," says Dr. Mackey to-day" is rites actually "in use of Masonic number ed. 1907, p. 29), given by the Cyclopeedia of Fraternities (2nd Of these, the English (erroneously called York) and the ten. as universal." ranked as Scottish, "are and Accepted Ancient is and in importance, practised in Rite "is next American The of Canada, where to are States and the Dominion the United in world." the Freemasons the three-fourths of all be found
iThe
{Ibid.)
382
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
and trative adminispcsdia, pp. 319, 320), "is the dogmatic Craft Masonry, or the authority of Ancient ." three Symbolic degrees Grand A Lodge is invested," he tells us later, all the Craft within "with and authorityover power of appeal It is the Supreme Court its jurisdiction. its decrees and in all Masonic to implicit cases, obedience be paid by every must Lodge and every
. .
"
Mason of Grand
situated
within
its control.
The
government
Lodges is, therefore, completely despotic. be reGrand While spected a Lodge exists, its edicts must ordinate examination and by its subobeyed without Lodges.' autocratic This of a Grand Lodge," he power is based upon to pediency, on a principleof exsay, goes
" "
and
at
derived
from
the
fundamental Grand In
so
law
tablished es-
the
organizationof
Lodges
in the
as
large a body
that there should absolutely necessary tion be a supreme body to protect the Institucontrolling from could be more iently convenanarchy, and none selected than one which, by its representative character, is, or ought to be, composed of the wisdom, of all the subordinate prudence, and experience Lodges under its is
obedience;
so
that
the
voice
of
the
Grand
pressed ex-
Lodge
We it need
"
of the
Craft
have
time
to
discuss
here,
nor
indeed
does edicts
whose
respectedand obeyed without by its subordinate Lodges." No human Masonry does not claim to be other, has
must exact
examination
power, any
men;
and
right to
no tional ra-
such
man
blind
true
obedience
to
of
nature
rational
can
his
yield
it.
Ex-
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
383
of
pediency will
does
not
not
avoidance
anarchy
demand
Craft it. We
through
the
safeguard who accustomed are to representativegovernment, how often representatives know do not express united wisdom, prudence, and experienceof
as
subordinates;
are
likewise, how
of those
often
their
decisions
And
not
the voice
whom
no
Masonic
Grand various
a
Lodges
attempts
are
The
made
States
to
public, Lodge for the whole Rerehearsed at length by Dr. are Mackey in his Encyclopcediaof Freemasonry, pp. 305, 308. Ever since the Grand gan, Lodges of this country beof the Revolutionary war," at the commencement their dependence on he says, the Grand to abandon that is to say, as Lodges of England and Scotland of soon as they emerged from the subordinate position Grand Provincial sume compelled to asLodges, and were tempts ata sovereign and independent character of the been made have by members Grand Craft to destroy this sovereigntyof the State Lodges, and to institute in its place,a superintending
" "
" "
establish
General
Grand
power,
to
be
constituted
or as a
either General
as
Grand
Master
of
North
United united
America,
States.
Grand
Lodge analogy
or,
of the of the
Colonies
federal head,
in the very
commencement
the
by long habits of dependence on the mother Grand Lodges of Europe, the contest had no sooner tween relations beof political begun, and a disseverance than the attaken place, tempt England and America
was
made
to
ter Mas-
of the United
States."
(pp. 305-306.)
384
The 1779,
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
made
MASONRY
first and
attempt, it
seems,
was
on
Dec.
27,
repeated unsuccessfully at different times, in Chicago in 1859, it seems until, at the convention abandoned, been finally to have (pp. 307, 308.) the Grand the Latin Lodges are Among races,
called
than
Orients, and
American
Grand
exercise
somewhat
"
more
power
of the Grand Most Lodges. by the Latin races," says Dr. Lodges established those of as {EncyclopcEdia, Mackey p. 322), "such American and the South States, France, Spain, Italy,
are
called
Grand
Orients.
The
word
is
thus, in
but
one
sense,
Grand
than
over
with
often
a
Grand
more
Lodge;
extensive
these
obedience
which English and highest degrees, from Grand American Thus, the Grand Lodges refrain. exercises jurisdiction Orient of France not only over the the seven Rite, but also over degrees of its own and Accepted [Scottish thirty-threeof the Ancient all the other Rites that are Rite], and over practised
in France." The
on
last
paragraph, however,
is somewhat
fied modi-
wrote
work; but as Dr. p. 290 of the same his articles at different times, it is not
how
Mackey
hard
to
conceive
"
such
came discrepancies
about. is
now
The
Masonic
obedience
of France
divided,"
the the the
two
he
says bodies
{Encyclopasdia, p. 290),
[the Grand
Council
of and the Orient the of
"between
and and
France
preme Su-
Scottish
Rite],
now
Grand
as
Orient
Supreme
in
Council
French
both
exist The
Masonry.
furnish
an
stant con-
former
countries
historyfor
the
succeedingthirty years
386
But
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
if this
us, at
be that
as impossible,
it is, this at
or
least will
console varied
while
the
ceremonies,
ritual,have
periods,and still vary in different countries, the science and philosophy,the symbolism will the religionof Freemasonry continue, and and wherever true continue, to be the same Masonry is clear can so practised." Comment only fail to make
different
a
doctrine
to
clearer. the
We
shall therefore
new
devote than
our
time their
rather
submitting of
proofs
to
development.
in opening and of forms closing [a identity Lodge] and in conferring the degrees," Dr. Mackey what says again {Encyclopedia,p. 843), "constitutes called uniformity of work. is technically The pression exAn has the
no
"
sense,
to
degrees in different Rites and different countries, but only to a similarity in the ceremonies Rite, and practised by Lodges in the same
working
of
jurisdiction."He then its desirability, to show on though admittingits goes and adds (p.844) : impossibility, It is, therefore,a matter of congratulationthat desirable and however uniformity in work, however unattainable, is not so important and essential as many have deemed it. Oliver, for instance,seems to confound of his writings the ceremonies in some of a of the Order. But degree with the landmarks they different. The are landmarks, because they very affect the identity of the Institution, have long since been embodied in its written laws, and unless by a wilful the Grand perversion,as in France, where be changed. Mastership has been abolished,can never But variations in the phraseology of the lectures, or in the forms and ceremonies of initiation, so long
more same
"
in especially
the
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
387
as
they
are
do
not
trench the
boHsm
on
which
built,can
produce
. .
other The
.
porary tem-
inconvenience.
ritual of the of
can never
in the
be such Its
Institution.
and the of
to
of the
God,
eternal
life, and
of
taught in its symbolic method, will forever shine out pre-eminent above all temporary changes of phraseology. Uniformity of work be attained, but uniformity of design and not may masonry uniformity of character will forever preserve Freefrom disintegration." The boast of the Emperor Charles V," he tells us {Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, p. 846), in an of Masonry, that the sun article on the Universality his vast be applied with set on never empire, may east equal truth to the Order of Freemasonry. From
man,
" "
brotherhood
to
west,
and
from
north
to
south,
over
the
whole
habitable
Wherever left their
disseminated. our globe, are Lodges have the wandering steps of civilized man there have tablished. our footprints, temples been esThe lessons of
Masonic
of the
love
have and
into
man
the
wilderness
West,
his
of
our
soil has
the
shared
with
our
more
ened enlightthe
once
mysteries of
African
a
science, while
more
of the
scene
desert
have
than
the
of
Masonic
greeting. Masonry
and
is
beauty
it is
to
some
thirst of those
but
banks;
through every hill and mountain, penetrating and gliding through every field and valley of the the abundant earth, bearing in its beneficent bosom
388
waters
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
of the
love
and
charity for
of be every
and
orphan
words
on can
the
the
widow,
far
our our
author's
admitted,
the
have here
seen we
in
are
chapter
It is
Masonic
one
Benevolence;
tereste in-
in but
thing
"
because precisely that Dr. Mackey and all other Masonic one, always speak in the singular of Masonry,
is
writers
etc., and
not
of
Masonries
or
Freemasonries.
They speak
the
of the Masonic
Masonic
system, the
Masonic
Masonic religion.
Institution, Masonic symbolism, the Masonic ternity, Frathe Masonic Order, the Craft, the Masonic light, Masonic the world. family, the Masonic the slightest in speaking of There is never difficulty Continental ren. Breththe French, English, German, or and All extraneous devices" ornaments (on Masonic in bad taste are aprons), says Dr. Mackey, the symbolic character detract from of the investitu and But the silk or satin aprons, bespangled have been gradand painted and embroidered, which ually nection creeping into our Lodges, have no sort of conAncient Craft with Masonry. They are an of our French innovation Brethren, who are never and have by their love of pleased with simplicity, tinsel in their various faced newly-invented ceremonies, efof the most beautiful and impressivesymmany bols Institution." of our {Encyclopaedia,p. 84.) So again, treatingof the aporrheta or of the secrets Order us (Encyclopcsdia,pp. 80, 81), he informs that The far more liberal in are European Masons their views of secrecy than the Engof the obligation lish the American. There few or are things indeed
"
,
"
"
which
French
or
German
Masonic
writer
will
re-
AMERICAN
fuse
AND
EUROPEAN
the utmost
MASONRY
389
It is
now
to
discuss with
be
frankness.
beginning to
American
writers
generallyadmitted, and English and are actingon the admission, that the
only real aporrheta of Freemasonryare the modes of and the peculiarand distinctive ceremonies recognition
of the Order."
Hence
our
author, under
the
heading
"
nental Conti-
Lodges," hastens to inform us that the expression than implies nothing more ence differa mere This of usages. expression [Continental is used Lodges] throughout this work, as it constantly is by English writers,to designate the Lodges the continent of Europe which on retain many usages which have either been abandoned were by, or never observed in, the Lodges of England, Ireland, and
"
"
"
Scotland,
The
same
as
well
as
the
United
States
of
America.
in the
words
Continental
sense."
It is,therefore,no their
Masonic
writers
in
of Masonry quote indifferently from expositions of every authors rite and it is the one nationality; "clothed," as Dr. Mackey has put system differently affects it intrinsically it, but its clothingno more
than
"
our
own
does
us.
The
and
which expositions
other continental
abound
says (""attacks upon sonry, Freemanot cyclopaedia, p. 270), "are for the written often under but are authority,
use
languages," he
of Continental Fraternity. The usages of publication that would Masonry permit a freedom ternity." Frabe tolerated by the English or American scarcely of the
It
is natural, therefore, to
find
over
in
the
and
of the
Lodge
the lesson
taught
390
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
ployed unity; and though the symbols emremains the underlying lesson ever differ,
unchanged.
"
In
the
Lectures Dr.
of
the
York
Rite, the
clouded
Mackey (Encyclopcsdia, p. 147), the covering of the Lodge, teaching as Krause that the primitiveLodge is confined us, as says, within shut up building, but that it is universal, no and reaches to heaven, and teaching especially that in every clime under heaveipFreemasonry has its Gadike seat.' Freemason knows And saj^sT^'lEvery canopy,"
"
says is described
'
that that
by
canopy
we
mean
it teaches
widely
is
no
extended
sphere of
inhabited
usefulness. world
as
There
our
portion
cannot
the
in which is
"
labor
be
carried
forward,
its clouded
there
no
"
portionof
Hence,
the
globe
without
Mackey continues, the German of the symbol is that it interpretation denotes the universality of Freemasonry, an interpretation that does not precisely accord with the English
"
canopy.'
then," Dr.
and
American is
systems, in which
the
doctrine and
extent
of universality of the
symbolized by
of
a
the
form
Lodge."
"
The
extent
Mason's
Lodge,"
us
(Encyclopcedia, p. 271), "is from the earth to the highest heavens; the surface to the center; in length from
and is
a
he goes on said to be in in
to
tell
east
west;
in breadth
from
one,
north and of
to
south.
to
The
expression
the
tensive ex-
symbolic
of
is intended
teach the
Masonry, charity."
"
and
coterminal
in Globe," he tells us that treatingof the second degree, the celestial and terrestrial globes been adopted as symbols of the universal ex"
AMERICAN
tension
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
391
versal Order, and as suggestive of the uniclaims of brotherly love." {Encyclopcedia, p. 312.) The various implements of the Order teach, lesson. according to him, the same Thus, the tools attached the Mason, to each as an degree admonish Apprentice, to prepare his mind for the receptionof
"
of
the
the great
to
truths
a
which
are
hereafter mark
to
be
unfolded
him;
adorn
as
Fellow
to
Craft, to
their
importance,
and
to
adapt them
their proper uses Master, as a ; and their beauty by the practice of brotherlylove
cement
and
common
kindness, the
that binds
all Masons
in
one
"The Fraternity" (Encyclopcedia, p. 361). in Operative Masonry is used which to unite cement the various parts of a building into one strong and is borrowed durable mass," he says, by Speculative Masonry [Freemasonry] as a symbol to denote that of all countries brotherlylove which binds the Masons
"
in
one
common
brotherhood.
As
is
Master recognized as being perfectedamong referred only, the symbol is very appropriately third degree." {Encyclopcedia, p. 153.)
the
The board
tessellated border
of "The
which
surrounds
the
the
same
tracinging. mean-
the Entered
Apprenticehas
as
tessellated border,
it is "is
called," says
a
Dr.
Mackey
with
{Encyclopcedia, p. 808),
which tassels,
surrounds
tracing-board Entered of Apprentice, the said tracing-board an it symboof the Lodge, and lizes being a representation binds which the mystic tie of love the bond hood." brotherdispersedinto one the Craft wheresoever
the
" "
On in
same
words
we
sacred
and
inviolable
bond,"
392
he
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
unites of the most men (p. 517), "which hand of brothers, which opinions into one of all nations and one gives but one language to men the is properly, from altar to men of all religions, the Mystic mysterious influence it exerts, denominated Tie; and Freemasons, because they alone are under ren Brethits influence, or enjoy its benefits,are called of the Mystic Tie.' Hence of Masonry are it is that the General Laws The General Laws,, binding throughout the world. all Dr. Mackey {Encyclopcedia, p. 446), "are says ies those Regulations that have been enacted by such boduniversal had at the time as jurisdiction. They persed; disthe Craft wheresoever operate, therefore,over says discordant
'
"
as
the
paramount
bodies
which
enacted
that seem long ceased to exist, it would they are unrepealable." So, too, the presiding officers are everywhere the In every same. Symbolic Lodge," says the Doctor are (Encyclopcediaof Freemasonry, p. 865), "there three principalofficers,namely, a Master, a Senior and This rule has exWarden, a isted Junior Warden. since the revival,and for some time preever vious
"
to
that event,
as one
and of
is
so
universal landmarks.
that it has It
been in
considered
the
exists
The titles of the country and in every Rite. every officers may be dififerent in different languages, but their
functions,
German
as
presiding over
duties,are
call the two
of
the
in
same.
Masons
and
Aufseher; the French, premier and second Surveillant; the Spanish, primer and segundo Vigilante; and the Italians, primo and secondo Sorvegliante.
zweite
394
Rose
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
Croix,
of the
Rite
of
of Strict Observance,
of
the
Illuminated
Chapter
Sweden,
and
the
Ancient
Chapter
wove
of Clermont."
it the Webb
degrees.
Dr.
of
some
"
talent," says
"
Mackey
{Encyclopcsdia, p. 454),
or
not
equal,
had about It is the
it is true, to Hutchinson
Preston and
; but
one more
who
paid more
it,than
fact is
attention
to
Masonry,
his times know
knew
of
in this country.
authorityI
he Preston
not
not, but
I think
visited
England,
At
and
same a
obtained
instructions such
a man
himself.
the such
time,
have
undertaken
making himself acquaintedwith in England, and his subsequent course prevailing tinental shows that he extended his investigations to the Conscience of Masonry as developed in the hautes grades' On his return home, he availed himself of all these varied advantages to compile and arrange which that system, not only of lectures but of degrees, has ever since been practised in this country." Ancient The and Accepted Scottish tially Rite, an essenwithout
'
French
system, and
introduced
from
France
in
1783 as the Rite of Perfection, contained originally but twenty-fivedegrees. "In 1801," however, says author our {Encyclopaediaof Freemasonry, p. 697), was a Supreme Council opened in Charleston by John
"
Mitchell evidence
and
Frederick
Dalcho. of the
There
is abundant
Supreme Council that degrees of the Rite of up to that time the twenty-five Perfection alone were recognized. But suddenly, with the organizationof the Supreme Council, there a Rite, fabricated by the adoption of eight arose new
in the Archives
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
395
of the Continental high degrees,so as to make the thirty-third and the twenty-fifth not degree the summit of the Rite." Now of this Rite, Dr. Mackey says a littleearlier on the page, Although one of the Rites, having been established youngest of the Masonic earlier than 1801, it is at this day the most not lar popuand the most diffused. extensively Supreme Councils or governing bodies of the Rite are to be
more
"
found and
in almost
civilized country of the world, every of them it is the only Masonic obedience." in Latin countries. chiefly belong to Lodges of different may of common knowledge. Dr. Mackey Memoir," Encyclopcedia, pp. 916,
"
case
Mason
matter
Rites is
both
of the
American
Rite
and
and
Accepted Scottish;so
of the
Dr.
Dalcho,
of
the
founders
a
Ancient
and
Scottish, was
p.
member
of the York
Rite
201), etc., etc. The Lodge practiceof various Rites by the same is called Cumulation This, says Bro. Mcof Rites." the practice Clenachan by {Encyclopaedia, p. 944), is or Rites, as the American a Lodge of two or more tish York and the Ancient Accepted Scottish, or the Scot" "
and Rites
has
French been
Modern
Rites.
a
This
Cumulation
extent
of in
practisedto
of
an
considerable
France, and
Of
sources,
in Louisiana
in the United
States."
from
the
our
introduction
own was
Masonry
from
different
The
country is
introduced
excellent example.
York
the
England; then came lished French, estabRite of Perfection, a rite essentially stitutes in Paris in 1754. This, as we have seen, conand Accepted of the degrees of Ancient twenty-five Scottish Masonry, the other eightbeing various
Rite
396
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
Ancient The Masonry. degrees of high Continental and Accepted Scottish Rite, as practised us, is, among Continental therefore, pure Masonry; in fact, the Council of
Charleston, in which
"the Mother
the
Rite
was
cated, fabriWorld."
is called
Council
of
"
the
{Encyclopcedia, p. 846.) There is,"says Turkey, too, is a good example. Dr. Mackey, speaking of this country, Provincial a Grand tion Lodge of England, having under its jurisdicfour four at Lodges at Constantinople and nople, Smyrna. There are also four Lodges at Constanti"
under
the
one
Grand
at
Orient
of
France;
four
at
under the Grand Constantinople, Orient the of Italy; one at Constantinople,under Grand Lodge of Ireland; and one at Constantinople, under the Grand (EncyclopceLodge of Scotland." dia,p. 838.) And all this is Masonry, not Masonries. The in the singular; word is ever for these divisions distinctions of govare only divisions of jurisdiction; ernment, doctrines. and not of Masonic spirit That is one throughout the world, is Masonry tial essenor clearlyestablished in the very Landmarks ^ Hence the fourteenth is : of the Order. principles sit in every The to visit and right of every Mason "The regularLodge" {Masonic Ritualist, p. 242). sit in every regular to visit and right of every Mason Lodge," says Doctor Mackey, explaining this right questionable of Freemasonry, p. 442), "is an un(Encyclopcsdia
Smyrna
and
"
landmark the
'
of
the
Order.
This
is called has
right of
inherent
visitation
Mason
And
^
this is because
Cfr., supra,
pp.
right which he travels through the world. as Lodges are justly considered as
23,
82.
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
397
only divisions for convenience sonic of the universal Mafamily." in good standing,"he Every affiliated Mason says again (Encyclopcedia of Freemasonry, p. 860), "has a right to visit any other Lodge, wherever it may be,
"
as
often
as
it may
suit his
pleasure or convenience,
'
and It is
this is
one
in called, the
most
Masonic
law,
the
rightof
visit.'
of
it is
Masonic
is the
important of all Masonic privileges, based on the principle of the identity of institution as universal one family,
of that
exponent
well-known
find been
not
a so
maxim, home,
and and
to
that in
so
long
I have
hesitated
rank
the landmarks
of the Order.
on
tinues, subjectis,"he conthat the right of visit is one of the positive sidered rightsof every Mason, because Lodges are justlyconversal as only divisions for convenience of the uniwhich Masonic family." He then gives reasons But deprive one of this right,and concludes : may without the existence of some such good reason, sonic Majuristshave always decided that the right of and inures to every visitation is absolute and positive, The in his travels throughout the world." Mason doctrine is treated at length in his Text Book of same he adds Masonic Jurisprudence, pp. 203-216, in which ever Wherever he may be, howto the text justquoted :
" " "
The
admitted
doctrine
this
distant
from
his residence
to Lodge is,a
and Mason be
in the in
ever
land
good
sure
where
he
should
"
and
a
truest
welcome
(p. 207).
the Union either
He
tells us,
indeed,
of
a
few of the
pages
earlier, that
in the
Grand
Lodges
denied
the
few
States
398
right
"
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
of
visit, or,
not
as an
conceding it,
absolute
conceded
it
as
favor, and
The
'
"
that
distinct
"
right. doctrine announced by Maryland is," he says, each Lodge is a family by itself, separate and all the rest of the world, and has an unfrom questionabl ciates.' right to say who shall not be their assoof Foreign Correspondence (Report of Committee It is evident, however," he 1854, p. 10).
"
says
in
footnote,
of the
"
that
this
involves,
of that universality by making each Lodge a distinct ajid independent family,the cosmopolitan character of the institution is where Fortunately this theory is nocompletely denied. else recognized." (p. 205.) Hence Master Mason has the right of aid every and assistance wherever he finds himself, and is amenable of the place in which to the Masonic jurisdiction The he dwells. (Enduty of aiding and assisting," cyclopadia,p. 50), "not only all worthy distressed Master and Masons, but their widows orphans also, wheresoever dispersedover the face of the globe/ is that is imposed of the most one important obligations brother of the mystic tie,' by the whole upon every
"
'
view
tracted con-
'
institution."
body is taught with masonry, on equal plainness p. 388 of the Encyclopcediaof Freewhere Dr. Mackey deals with the jurisdiction This jurisdiction, of a Lodge. he says, is geographical of a or personal. The geographical jurisdiction the territory Lodge is that which it exercises over
"
within
which
it is
situated,and
extends
to
who unaffiliated,
live within
"
The
of personal jurisdiction
Lodge
is that
penal
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
over
its No
own
matter
Mason
remove
to allegiance
that
Lodge Lodge
of which
is indefeasible
long as he continues a member, and it may exercise him." Without, therefore, penal jurisdictionover of his Lodge, and liable to be ceasing to be a member punished by it, should he be judged to be derelict in his Masonic duty, a Mason, by the very fact of owes enteringanother Masonic jurisdiction, allegiance becomes its subject,even to it and though he does not have been affiliatewith any of its Lodges; for, as we divisions, for are mere taught, different jurisdictions
the convenience of
government,
law
of the
we
great Masonic
are
family ; and
is but the Hence
our
the Masonic
which the
on
considering principle.
the
"
in his article
Freemasonry
"
proudly boasts
of its
unity and
The
Mason is well
" land a that ' in every says, find a home, and in every clime a brother,' may sustained by the statistics of the Order, which
assertion," he
show
civilized
have
on
men
have
temples
venture to
been
established.
than
a
possible It is immere
anything more
number
we are
proximat ap-
the
;
of
Freemasons in
scattered
over
the world
are more
but if
than
correct
believingthat
in the
there
400,000
Masons that
United
States whole
of
America,
any
number
a
of the
at less than
million
half would
be
very
low
estimate. which
followingis a table of the countries in with the permission Freemasonry is openly practised of the publicauthorities,omitting the States,
The
400
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
now,
increasing spiritof tolerance, very few, the suspicions of the government pel comindeed, where in private. if they meet the Masons, at all,to meet
by
the
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
additions, is found catalogue, with some Masonic Having been Lexicon, pp. 455-457.
same
quated thirtyyears ago, it looks a little antithe purpose of in spots, though it will still serve giving the reader an idea of the spread of Masonry
up
over over
the
world.
to
Stillson, 32", Henry Leonard Masonic Historian," writing in the Encyclopcedia Americana (Vol. X, s. v. "Masonic Fraternity"), In the United States and Canada the membership of Symbolic Masonry is published annually, the total for the year 1903 being 962,438, in 12,704 constituent lodges,under 57 grand lodges. The net gain during Tribune Almanac York 39,500." The New 1902 was Political Register for 1907 and (p. 233) gives the According
Bro.
"
"
total
number of
of North
members
of
"
The
as
Masonic
Grand
1,128,998. The Almanac World and Encyclopedia for 1908 (p. 404) of the Grand gives the returns Lodges of the United British America lows: folStates and for 1905-1906 as "Whole number of members, 1,062,425; and restorations, raised, 81,386; admissions 28,155; withdrawals, 22,008; expulsionsand suspensions, 659; of dues, 12,760; deaths, suspensions for non-payment in membership over 16,123. Gain preceding year, 58,177. Membership in 1906, 1,129,001; gain over of 66,576." An the preceding year accompanying statistical table gives the membership for as 1907 1,188,566.1
Lodges
" "
"
America"
Stevens' Cyclopedia of Fraternities (2nd ed. "more than candidates for membership 200,000 initiated every into American are fraternities and secret year into the Masonic sisterhoods, 30,000 ." The Fraternity total given above does not include the negro who Masons, ber numabout 60,000 in this country, but are considered "spurious."
1
to
{Ibid.p. 72).
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
403
Of
one
body
Rite
us
of
the
divided World
"
Ancient
Almanac
and for
Accepted
1908 (p.
York
Scottish
Masons
that
one
the its
404)
was
"
informs
Sovereign Grand
years ago in
Consistory
New
organized
under
.
hundred
the
of France by M .'. I .'. Joseph Cerneau,^ thirty-third degree," and The that has fraternal Supreme Council relations with the Supreme Councils of Great Britain and Ireland, Canada, Italy,Egypt, Ciiba, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland, Greece, Austria-Hungary, and other
.
.
the
cegis of
"
Grand
Orient
Grand
are
Orients." be
Which from
"
other the
Grand fact
Orients
these
to
may
same
inferred
that, according
ereign of Sovauthority, the Supreme Council Grand Inspectors-General of the Thirty-third and of the same in relalast Degree tions body are also of amity with the Supreme Councils for France Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Peru, Columbia, Chile, Central America Portugal, and Spain." tive Primiand The Sovereign Sanctuary of Ancient in and for the Freemasonry (Rite of Memphis)
"
the
"
"
Continent
of
America,"
was
introduced
into
this Mar-
country
1
from directly
is
Cerneau
considered
Masons
"
the
American
Council of Sovereign Cagliostro." He organized his Supreme in 1812. York According 33" at New Inspectors General to Mackey (Encyclopaedia, p. 697), the A. and A. Scottish Rite "not earlier than the year established 1801," and the Cyclopedia was "it constructed ed. Fraternities 43) was of (2nd says, p. of the twenty-five degrees of S. C, in 1801, out at Charleston, of of Paris, 1754. Rite Clermont, the Perfection, Chapter Grand ."
.
Scottish
The Rite
action
of
Masonry
to
"
dissension marked
many
in
which
succeeding years."
(Ibid.
47).
404
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
conis, about
International
"
1857/
and
besides being
Orient XI
"
created
. . .
in affiliation with
the
Grand
of France,"
(New
Encyclopedia,Vol.
the various has
a
(1903),
p.
994),
of
Masonic
powers
the
mania."
The
have
"
of
the
United
States
of the[ir] jurisdiction General Grand 28 subordinate Chapter chapters," of which in Porto Rico, Chili, and the Chinese some are Empire." (Ibid., p. 405.) The of Masonry," says Dr. Mackey, universality
"
"
"under
"
"
is not
more
honorable
to
to
the
Order, than
East
to
it is advantageo
the brethren.
From the
West, and
from
are
North
our
to
South,
over
whole
.
.
habitable The
.
globe,
Mason,
clime
a
Lodges disseminated.
and
indigent
"
destitute, may
land these
a
find home.'
in
every
brother, and
The
"
assertions," he
continues,
following table of the countries in which Freemasonry is openly and avowedly practised, Such by the permissionof the publicauthorities. toleran places as Austria, where, owing to the suspiciousinof the government, the lodges are obliged to be holden in private,are mentioned. not Italy and Hungary should be added." (Masonic Lexicon, p. 4SS-) have the unity of the Masonic Thus, we body
interest the reader rite, it may to lished estabknow, was had 1839 at Paris, and soon lodges also at Marseilles and It consisted Brussels. originally of "ninety-one degrees, later of ninety-two degrees, and afterward of ninety-six degrees, with a ninety-seventh degree for the official head of the Rite." (J^yclopadia of Fraternities,zaA ed., p. 78).
^
will be
This
in
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
405
again and again asserted in the clearest and most emphatic of terms; and we find the United States occupying its alphabetical place in the Masonic ico, list, just as France, England, Germany, Mexor any other country of the globe. The Masonry is one; the rite, the jurisdiction varies,according to the the convenience taste of the Brothers or for ceremony This has been asserted by of Masonic government. author and so variously, has been inculcated our so clearly that its denier, if so sedulouslyand persistently, be either quiteignorant of his Order, Mason, must a insincere in his denial. Its unity is embedded in its or landmarks; is expressed in its laws, its symbols, its is set forth by Masonic and orators sign-language; writers as Masonry's glory and boast; constitutes one of the customary toasts at Masonic banquets; and is vantages assiduouslyset forth as one of the great temporal adaccruing to a Mason. of course It is furthermore by accepted as a matter reference the general public, and that well-known
throughout
the world
has for several years accompanied lowing its statistical table of Freemasonry by the fol-
Almanac,
"These
Grand
Lodges [in
the
United
America] are in full affiliation with the English Grand Lodge, of which the Duke of Conland, naught is Grand Master, and the Grand Lodges of IreAustralia, New Scotland, Cuba, Peru, South
States and British South
also
are
with
not
the
Masons
of
Germany
do
not
They
the
correspond
of France
^
with
Masons
Orient
ijn
they, however,
of
the
now
affiliatewith
for
".
. .
and
phrase
not
Almanac,
reads: the
1908, this
do
of the jurisdiction
..."
4o6
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
recognize Masons
Council.
Church and World That the
under
the
of jurisdiction
the
preme Su-
Freemasonry is under the ban of the Catholic other in Spain, Italy,and countries, (The membership is small and scattered."
and
Almanac
our
Encyclopedia
Masons of
for
1906, p. 336).
and
ognize rec-
affiliate with
the Brotherhood
we
Italy,even
"
though
small and
the
Masonic
country be
scattered,"
pp.
have
sq.
proved
for
us
we sufficiently,
believe, supra,
words
on
286
Grand
to
few
the rupture
to
France, alluded
World
is Almanac.
more
in A
the
quotations from
of
communications
in
nothing
leaves the
schism
Masonry,
Craft and
which its
essential
spirit unimpaired. No one acquainted with Masonic history is ignorant of the Grand the long and bitter feud existing between Lodges of England {Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, were patched pp. 65-68), yet in 181 3, the differences and restored. So there were sensions disharmony was up in Brazil (pp. 125, 126) ; in France (pp. 288(p. 290) ; in Ireland (p. 370) ; in 290) ; in Frankfort Switzerland States (p. yjy) ; in the United (pp. 491, sonic dissensions. Ma; and, during these 477, 727, etc.) intercourse was interrupted;but the doctrine, the spirit of Masonry was at bottom, the same. ever,
of the The
argument,
and them The
therefore, which
is
an
we
hear
so
often
essential
difference
because
between
American
is
Masonry,
no
intercourse
severed, is of
Rite among
value.
us
Scottish
French
is
purely
French
by originand
by
has
descent.
with
2dly. The
break
been
the Grand
Orient of
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
407
Orient of
France,
France
"
as
we
have
seen. a
Now
the
Grand
represents but
Rite of
part of French
of the Ancient
The
Supreme Council
France,
Scottish Clenachan
"
however,"
to
Bro.
Mc-
stood, and
who
was,
existence.
owe
is,and
to the Supreme Council, the number at allegiance last report being eighty-three, still while those which lingerabout the Orient, not confident of their future, including in the geographicalboundary of France all and dependencies, will approximate two its possessions of which exist in name hundred and fifty, only, many indifferent to Masonry." It is not, therefore, and are has been that there true a complete break between
French
Masons in
and
the rest
The
tish Scot-
Rite
it,are still in on Lodges of intercourse. friendly pediency discussing the prudence or the ex3dly. Without of infidelity of a frank avowal by the Grand of the outcome Orient, its declaration is but the logical in our have seen of esoteric Masonry, as we principles ism study of the Masonic God and Jehovah. The naturalcan of Masonry, the deification of human passion,
have, in logical minds,
Orient Masonic of France
no
eighty-three
other be
outcome.
The
Grand of
cannot
accused
of
ignorance
the fruit of its declaration was principles; long thought and consideration; it is only the open expressionof what we have again and again found expressed covertly;it may not be prudent, but it is
true.
4o8
"
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
Discussion,"
says of
Bro.
a
McClenachan,
Masonic
"
and
an
of France did fraternity avail not to Assembly of the prevent the General Grand Orient of France from completing its overthrow and that of its subordinates by the almost unanimous famous amendment of Art. I, adoption of the now of Masonry, on of the Constitution Sept. 14, 1877. The and following is the text of the amendment of the was punged exoriginal second paragraph which of the
"
threatening
ity calam-
Original paragraph : Freemasonry has for its the existence of God, the immortality of the principles of mankind.' soul, and the solidarity Substitute amendment Whereas, Freemasonry : is not doctrine a no or religion, and has therefore affirm in its Constitution, the to dogma Assembly that IX, has decided and decreed adopting the Vaeu the second paragraph of Article I of the Constitution
" '
"
shall
be
erased, and
that
for
the
words
of
the
said
I. Being following shall be substituted: institution essentially an philanthropic, philosophicand jects, obprogressive.Freemasonry has for its immediate after truth, study of universal search morality, sciences and arts, and the practiceof benevolence. It has for its principles of conscience and utmost liberty human and is Liberte, Egalite,et its motto solidarity,
article,the
Fraternite.'
"
The
adoption
a
of
the
above
was
after
deliberate
more
consideration
year
were
by
its
constituents, who
of
than
and
"
in the throes
deep
tion delibera-
In
above
course
4IO
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY
Dabar, Wisdom,
D. O.
G.
the true
meaning."
to
use
Why
be reconciled
as
initial of
the
reconciled Masonic
by
columns
word
God, read
to to
backwards,
He-She,
Dabar,
have
Oz,
Gomer,
backwards
appeal
as
initiate who
reads
we
Jehovah
plained ex-
get Ho-Hi,
But who of the uninitiated length elsewhere.^ imagines that, God is thus distorted ? To say, therefore,that there is no Masonry without God, when almost the only reason that will reconcile a Mason to
at
"
the
use
of the initial
"
wisdom,
strength and
is, for
of beauty," the phallic pillars Christians, the veriest humbug; as Orient of France.
the
Lodge,
been
it has
Masonry, therefore,is everywhere the are principles taught in the higher for the same same, degrees; exoteric Masonry, or the Masonry of the unwill naturallydiffer. But for all that they instructed, form one body, though animated in different degrees have the bitterness we seen spirit. Hence by the same and bigotryof Gethsemane Chapter of Rose Croix of Bro. of Oakland, California, and Sherman, the affairs on in Masonic the Pacific Coast; leading spirit man though we should regret to believe that every gentlepresent at the meeting recorded, fullysubscribed in his- heart to the sentiments expressed. But union in a body, participation even even imperfectly in a and anti-Christian is that as spirit as anti-Catholic
Esoteric
1
Supra,
pp.
176
sqq.
AMERICAN
AND
EUROPEAN
MASONRY 411
of
true
Masonry,
Church.
cannot
but
love
be
condemned and
by
for
Catholic
souls
Her
have her
very
esteem
who
make
been
deceived
by
and
outward
ances appear-
will
of As has
speak
to
openly
herself.
frankly,
less regard-
consequences
the
advanced
and
progressive
its
Masonry
of
of
God
France
openly
so
proclaimed
this is
the the
purpose purpose
driving
of
advanced
from
sonry Ma-
France,
secret
world. in
everywhere,
;
matter
nor
not
rite,
for for
such
merely
is
a
accidental
in
jurisdiction,
convenience;
these
are
this,
one
mere
of
for but in
nor
exoteric
of
members,
the it is
ill-instructed in its
doctrines
esoteric
Craft;
one
it aim
is
one
true
spirit;
and
its in
and
object;
one
its
light
thus
doctrines;
one
its
philosophy
craft,
one one
religion;
forming
brotherhood,
to
one
family,
one
one
one
order,
itself
world,
for the
in
its
catholicity by
substitute
licity Catho-
established
Christ.
APPENDIX
The
Unity
of
Freemasonry
So Catholic
firmly
is
the that
erroneous
belief among-
rooted
in
many is
minds,
different and
Masonry
European sedulously, by
something
from
so
and for
Masonry,
is this
we
poses, pur-
idea
been
fostered
Masons
to
see
themselves,
the
that
have
not
surprised
one
following
^
printed, in good
A
recent
faith, by
of
of
our
Catholic
papers
address
John
C.
Strother, Lodge
known No.
of
Louisville,
400,
tucky, KenA.
delivered
reveals
a
before
not
Louisville
F.
"
M.,
viz.;
or
fact
Freemasons
generally
in the the
in
States
this
do of
not
country,
that
the
United
recognize
and
hold
Latin
The
communication countries.
with
Freemasons
France
oth"y
address,
the
say
which
is
printed
in
the
Masonic
Home
Journal,
contains
"
following:
there
is
not
are
may
different
and
kinds
of
and
as
Masonry
in in
sense.
Freemasonry
world with of
as
known
taught
in
practiced
the
all
the
that
purity
or
of
belief with
God
Supreme
of
say,
itect Arch-
the
Universe,
in this it
that
of
elevated
ours,
standard I
may
morals
as we
in
the and
lodges
country
Louisville and
and,
No.
practice
of this
in
Lodge
400,
and
in
as
the
it
lodges
in
city
jurisdiction. Portugal
and
Freemasonry,
the
France,
is
a
Italy, Spain,
American in
recent
republics,
years
no
political
into
anti-religious
a
association,
anti-theistic
has
secret
developed
of
its
sort
of
which
makes
hatred
of
revealed
religion.
iThe
article
for
some
was
taken
reason,
from
gave
the
it
secular
dailies,
several
of
which,
considerable
prominence.
414
"
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
into
France
Freemasonry
and into
was
introduced
other
1720, French
the
in
countries
numbers
were
named
gentlemen
and
great
joined the
discussed. than licentious
of
free
women
thought
were
unbelief
openly
for
organized
them and
little less
women
men,
and
in
relations
became
members
devoted
tendants. at-
society so
could
or
religious influence
neutral
Masonic
men
lodges presented
hold
such
kind
as or
of
ground,
these
on
intercourse of Church of
of
influence
even
antagonism
historical made
In
say
ings meet-
the
existence
a
Christ,
His
divinity, was
doubtless which
matter
condition
aggravated, if it did
between
the
tagonism an-
existed
Freemasonry
of
Roman
Catholic
"
Church. time
to
From
time
the
Popes
of
Rome
have
upon
issued the
was
their
edicts
of the
members
not
as
But
the Roman
only
1888
resorted Albert
by the
Catholic
Church, but
United French
as
late
Pike, Grand
than
Commander
of the
States
(Scottish
in
terms
Rite), solemnly
not
"
excommunicated
those of used
Freemasons
by the God,
Popes.
the
the
result
the
practice of
of
as
lodges Supreme
as a
not
to
quire re-
belief in the
of
existence
was
Architect
mere
the
of
considered
by them rejected
no
ter mat-
be
accepted
was
or
at
the
discretion
to
of
an
the oath
brother, who
or
longer required
led
to
take
way
the
other, and
free
thinking and
and
the
perhaps
"
freer
So
strong
antagonism between
communicated with
the
Order
Church
Orient
of France
passed
to
resolutions, which
subordinate
was
binding effect
the
all
it
to
effect that
the
duty of
the
good
Mason
to
use
bring about
educational
was
charitable,and
state;
the
to
see
that
the
their property
confiscated
to
or
to
the
and
that
it of
was
Freemason
advocate
from
exclusion
any
all
colleges
schools
holding
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
415
naval
or
government,
civil service. "The
in
any
branch
of
the
service, military,
the
relation
of
to
prevailing religion
South
in
republics of
America,
religion is Roman
in belief
or
the dissolute
habits
of
thought
France doubtless
now a
and
has practice of Masons brought about a activity by the Masons, whose political potency
in
excess
responding cor-
in
is
far
of
the
their
numerical but
proportions, which
force which
is
constitutes
unseen
powerful
Church and
the separation of
so
State, causing
in France."
will
immediately
see
the
value of Brother
1st.
"
Strother's
admissions.
Freemasonry, as it exists in France, Italy, American republics, Spain, Portugal, and the South is a political in reassociation, which cent anti-religious has developed into a sort of anti-theistic years
sect, which makes
no
secret
of
its hatred
of
revealed
religion."
centers Lodges from the beginningwere of free thought and unbelief. Lodges for women were organized little less licentious than the Lodges of ence the historical existIn their meetings, men." even of Christ, to say nothing of His was divinity, made of joculardispute." a matter 3d. This condition of affairs aggravated, if it did between existed not create, the antagonism which Catholic Church." Freemasonry and the Roman in the South 4th. The persecutionof the Church American Republics and in France, is Masonic; and has been brought about by the Church's opposition to
2d.
French
"
"
"
"
the
atheistic tendencies
and
and
to
the
dissolute
habits
of
thought
of practice
Masons."
4i6
We thank
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
the of
Brother what
we
for have
his
simple
and
and
candid
confirmation pages,
nent
we or
asserted
in
preceding
most
rather
what Masonic
erri-
American have
asserted; for
that of sought no merit for ourselves save faithful copyist. We are willing to admit with him, there are dififerent have clearly admitted, that as we The kinds of Masonry in a sense." only question is is esoteric Masonry, There sense." concerning this and the true or genuine article; there is exoteric, adulterated article, an put up and seasoned according There different rites, to the taste of the consumer. are have elsewhere we etc., as explained. In these
" "
"
"
senses
there other.
same.
may
Masonries,
is everywhere
but
in
no
Genuine
Masonry
the The
Catholic
newspaper the
above
that
Judge
in the
Strother's
in United with this
reveals
fact the
generally known
communication other Latin
States
the
recognize or
of France
Freemasons
countries."
It is,unfortunately, not
in
fact. The
issue of
the press,
the
when
paper the
from San
Francisco
Rite in
Examiner
Masons
question was yet fresh following appeared in the (May 26, 1907) :
and
new
Scottish
first time convention.
of the old
worlds
have
an
are
for the
the There
history of
will
one
Masonry only
these
is to
seven
to
international from of
on
be
of
delegates
Frank in Brussels
the
United
States, and
world Mr.
next.
is W. be held
D.
Pierce
this
city. This
loth and
June
the
James
of
Richardson will
of
see Tennes-
George
Moore
Alabama,
represent
4i8
F.
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
Gallagher
Masonic
of
Boston,
and
Barton
Smith
of
Toledo, Councils,
Ohio.
erning gov-
Richardson
said
Supreme
the for
third, were
and
for
represented
at
congress,
which of
not
held
legislative purposes,
but
means
over
the
unification
the
Scottish the
Rite
devising
all
obtaining the
world
the
next
unification of
Supreme
Councils
arid
close
of
deaUng
the five
with
a
irregular
resolution
at
a
Masonic
was
lodges. passed
to
to
Toward hold
the upon
session
years
congress,
hence,
city
be
decided
by
the
two
American
jurisdictions.
find
two
Whom
do"
we
have
all American
sons Ma-
Rite
other
councils?
we are
Mainly
hold
no
from
the members
very
tries coun-
which,
Rite
told, the
the So
of
the Is
Scottish
France list. of Is
in America
excluded?
Mexico between
unity
as
States
and
sister,that
chosen
Allison
Nailor, of Washington,
the latter. American Bro. various
C,
is
Italy, Spain,
Portugal,
whose
South
republics,
Strother
so
atheism
and
immorality
doubtless excluded. Let us roundly chides, are go the list again lest our have deceived over us. eyes France, Italy, Portugal, Peru, Brazil, Venezuela, United of States Colombia, Argentine, Uruguay, Colon, Mexico, Santo Domingo, Spain, Chili. These
and Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales Greece, Hungary, Canada, Switzerland, Egypt, the United harmonious States, and Belgium in one unity.
are
found
with
It makes
no
difference
to
us
what
the purpose
of
the
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
convention
was;
whether
it very its
concerns
was
legislative or
is secrecy,
to
Masonry
supposed
Its and
cement
oneness
whose manifest
essence
to
purpose
us
profanes.
moment;
was
for
the
the
purpose
of
the And
gathering
with
lie ? whom
to
this
closely.
such
a
does the
convention the
With
And what
mittedly majority? The adatheistic and immoral sons European Latin Maand those of the Latin American republics. in such when convention, questions arise of a possess
Scottish
of
Rite the
Masons
are
to
hold
as
to
the Grand
Architect
the
to
Universe, Church,
esoteric
Masonic
Catholic
be
And
morals?
shown the
not
to
dogma and have this, even supposing (which we be the case), that American delegatesto
true, different and from their Brethren. A Bro. the immense
majority is,as
not
and
moral, candidly confesses, atheistic, imand anti-Catholic. And anti-religious, bitterly ternize willingto fraonly is the Scottish Rite of America with its Latin brethren, it is willingto do more, will play the role of host. five years hence intimate
so
himself
The
union
of
Mexican
and choice
American
of Bro.
sonry, Ma-
is
by by
of
the
Nailor,
recent
events.
the
Shriners
in the
States
the their
Mystic
Order
and admitted its members capital, among Freemasons of the most some prominent Mexican ; that Mystic Shrinery be contended and though it may in its own is not properly Masonry, it is certainly, way, Mexican
420
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
the
flower
and
fruit of the
are
degree
Mexican there
Masons and
American
fraternize; where
is
this
is what from
The
the
Moreover, here pretended standing aloof? is planned for the next The item is year. Mexican of November Herald 5th, 1907:
committee
to
arrange
executive
appointed
for the of
by Anezah
O. W.
Temple,
of the
A.
A.
Mystic
Shriners
B.
Shrine,
in
entertainment
visiting
W. M.
January,
G. H.
D.
consisting
N.
W.
Staples, chairman,
L. Vail, K.
Hull, W.
and
Stevens, plans
L held the
Brinker,
a
Vancussed disthat
Zandt
Barto,
for
meeting
yesterday
It
is
and
general
from 1,500
to
reception.
expected
2,000
Shriners
will make
to
it is proposed
get
up
series
of
entertainments
several
days.
Potentate
Imperial
of the
Clayton,
of the
to
of
St. Joseph,
Mo.,
and head
the the
members it is
imperial
be
council, will
expected
held
in Mexico.
(vol. x, s. v. Mystic Shrine ") of that this "order is composed only 33d degree Masons." says the Almanac This is probably to World an error. According "its is of Masons membership strictly (1908, p. 40s), composed reached the 32d degree." who have (See also Stevens' Cyclopcedia 2nd New Active York, i.) thirtyFraternities, ed.. of 1907, p. said be about hundred third degree Masons there are to only one America all told in North thirty-thirds," less than ; honorary members (Ibid. p. 54). Only active "thirty-thirds" are 1,000. of Rite. the of the Supreme (Ibid. p. Council, or governing body, Ancient Arabic Order Besides of the Mystic Shrine," the 53.
The
Encyclopedia
Americana
"
"
"
there
"
are
a as
number
a
of The in
other
to
societies
in the
United
States
which
require
the
prerequisite
New
Masonic which
bodies."
passage
them
quotes
the
such
societies
aflfiliated with
Masonry,
of
the the
of
Eastern
Mystic
and
1903, p.
Order
Veiled
Prophets
Enchanted Owls."
the
p.
International
Cyclopedia
of
67) adds
and
the
Sovereign
College
Degrees.
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
421
Again,
of the
on
August 6th,
States
*
1907,
the
United
Mexico
of
quote
Herald
With
the
Mexico
City Commandery,
last of of
U.
D.
Knight George
of
the
Templars,
was
duly constituted
in the
night. The
the
tution consti-
effected
lodge
Grand
rooms
M.
Moulton,
Past
Master
the Grand
Knights
assisted
opening of
was
Templar in the United States, presiding. At the Commandery Past Grand ton MoulCommander
by the officers who
he
had the
been
appointed by him
of Eminent
under
dispensation while
of the General
held
post
mander Com-
Grand
Commandery.
to
General
Moulton
it
a
delivered
the
Commandery
of under
. .
.
making
took
As
regularly constituted
and the the
body
the
Grand
then
first elections
the
following results:
of
indication
General
Moulton's
following list of
Master of the
Master
offices which
he
has
filled
interesting:
Grand Grand Covenant
Lodge Lodge
R.
A.
F. and No.
A.
M.,
E
State Grand
of
Illinois; Past
Priest of
High
the
Grand
Chapter
A. No.
of
Illinois; Past
of Ceremonies Ancient and
High
Order
Priest of
Corinthian
Chapter
Marshal
69; Master
the
Past of
High
Priesthood Rite
M. of
"
in Illinois.
Accepted
Scottish
M.
of
Camp,
First
nois; Illigree, de-
Supreme
Lieutenant
Past
J.
U.
S.
A.;
Council
in Past
Consistory 32nd
Chicago; Honorary
S. i6th
S. ;
Council,
eign SoverMem-
degree; Prince
Grand
of
Jerusalem
Inspector General
are
33rd degree
closely allied with the Freemasons. under, and as The (vol. x) treats them Encyclopedia Americana World Almanac for Fraternity." The a part of the "Masonic " orders obtain these to that A Mason [which 1908 (p. 405) says confers: Red Cross, Knight of Knights Templar Commandery a be not only a Mason, but "a Templar, Knight of Malta] must in good standing, and a Mason and Royal Arch Mason Master
1
The
Knights Templar
"
member
of both
Lodge
and
Chapter."
422
ber
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
Supreme
States
Council
Northern
near
Masonic similar
the
U. Jurisdiction,
S. A.
of the
Accredited United
representative,
and
grand
bodies named of of
Illinois, of
following
Masonic
Venezuela, California;
Grand
of
Royal
Arch
and Masons
Select
of
Masters
of
Oregon;
Grand Grand
Chapter
Ancient,
of
Royal
and
A.
Delaware;
of
Lodge
Free
Accepted
of
Masons
Kansas;
Lodge
A.
F.
and
M.
the island
of Cuba.
Space
the
has
allowed Masonic
us
to
give only
Those how
about
one-half
we
of
General's
titles.
which
he. stands He
have both in
given, however,
Blue
high
Masonry
Scottish
Rite.
is,moreover,
and Representative of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Supreme Council, Venezuela, the Grand of well South as America; as Lodge, and of the Island of Ancient Free Accepted Masons
Accredited
Cuba. and
In
Mexico
he
is at home
his the
Brethren
Herald,
:
in its issue of
Past purpose here he
its readers
for
but
Grand
Master
Moulton's Mexico
this
city
was
the
while
was
Mexican
the
general Lodge
and here.
condition
Blue
He
especially well
President
of the
his
reception by General
local
Diaz,
the
the
Knights
Templar.
If, before
for
a
concluding,
we
we
be
allowed
General
to
digress
:
moment,
would
note
how
Moulton's
various
reveal dignities
another
ramifications
those
of Masonic
directlyor
Craft
Bro.
openly aflfiliatedwith
able the
to
is the
to
better Pike:
obtain
the of
it
by
spreading
UNITY
QF
FREEMASONRY
423
Masonic
to
the
No
one
is blinder
than
he
even
who
some
see;
and of
our
if
Catholics
and, perhaps,
"
persist which we sincerely hope will not be the case in refusingto accept the evidence of facts,let them seek to explain,consistently with the fairness and intelligence of Mother Church, the common
"
clergy,should
condemnation,
American
as as
well
of
European
The
and
Latin-
Masonry,
of Bro. the
own
of American.
candid
as
Strother
to
justice of
former
;
our
Church's
to
Study, we
as
hope,
will have
sufficiently
action in
enlightened them
reference
to
to
the
justiceof
her
the
latter.
* * *
Should
there
remain
reader
of this volume
not
yet
fullyconvinced, let him take up The Genius of FreeCrusade Masonry and the Twentieth-Century by J. D. Mason and author of Mystic Buck, a distinguished have before us a Masonry and other writings. We
cation DediChicago (1907). The For the Good reads : of Masonry in the Interest of Freedom and Fraternity,Light, Liberty and Fear. and Love against Ignorance, Superstition tory Clericalism, Despotism,and Jesuitism." An introducitself To Catholics." The chapter addresses book is an anti-Catholic pamphlet of a type of which Anti-Clerical the bitterest European might well be proud. The author's chief thesis is that the genius of he calls Catholicism which, of course, Popery
" " "
" "
" "
of copy American
the
second
Indo-
Book
Co. of
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
exact are opposites," genius of Freemasonry fore, that, thereto the last degree," and antagonistic the Maison everywhere is an enemy of Popery openly: (p. 67). On page 250 he speaks still more claim set up by No such complete denial of every Clericalism [i.e. Catholicism] can anywhere else be found as confronts it in Freemasonry. Masonry self addressing him[mark well : the author is an American to Americans !] stands squarelyand on well-deRned principles for the precise opposite of Clericalism." the following page on Just so far," he continues ciples (251), "as the world is converted to the ethical prinof Freemasonry, Brotherly Love, Relief and and the ethics taught and lived by Jesus,just Truth, fast and so far the world so repudiates every principle arid every claim Clericalism. and practiceof Roman The indifference and supineness of many Masons either ignorance,folly, mean at this point must and cowardice. or Every intelligent loyal Mason ought to accept the challengeof Rome, with all that it and proceed at once it. He should to act upon implies, do this or To frankly confess himself a coward." tooth and to nail, and, if possible, fight Catholicism writer, destroy it,is, according to this latest Masonic and a very important part of the part Magnum of Freemasonry. We have not Opus enough space left to quote extensivelyfrom his book; but if the reader will peruse carefully the followingextract, taken from sonry, Genius of Free-Ma170 to 171 of The pages and weigh it in the light of the many sages pashave quoted from Pike and Mackey, he will we doubt that the esoteric no readily agree with us, first, Masons of America are getting ready to teach the exoteric brethren the logical to draw conclusions from
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
"
426
which
the he the
UNITY
OF
FREEMASONRY
ancient
Jewels
able
to
were answer
on
^
concealed
the
and
served, pre-
will
be
countersign, Opus."
conclude
ends
:
and
^
pass
into
the
Magnum
We Buck
by quoting chapter
is indeed
a
the
words
"
with
The Real
Mr.
"
his
entitled
Issues
(p. 258)
"
The
issue
exceeding
or a
plain ;
need
so err nor
plain,
of
deed, in-
that It is
not
only
because
knave of lack
fool
therein. due
of
knowledge
warning
that
"
'
We
wait
pangs
beneath of
the
furnace
blast
The
transformation.'
"
If
we
wait
longer
it will
be
because
we
are
recreant
to
plain duty."
As for
us
Catholics,
character and
if
we
remain
aims
to
longer
of American the
in
ignorance
esoteric tions, precauof if
of
the
true
and
Freemasonry,
in
our
neglect
to
take
proper
obedience
Mother succeed the
the
oft-repeated
it will the it
serve
warning
us
Holy
Masons
Church,
right
of power
the
in
as
obtaining they
as
balance
in the and
United
us
States,
in
hold
our
to-day
in
France,
are
treat
America
poor
brethren
treated
in
that
beautiful
but
unfortunate
land.
Italics Mr.
Buck's.
THE
END.
INDEX
[Presuming
subject possible
to
that
this volume
will
with
be
a
frequently consulted
view
to
on
the
as
of
to
which
it treats, and
of
very
"
adapt
it
as
much
make
of
reference,
full. The
I have
taken
considerable
course,
pains
to
figures refer, of
the
pages
the
book.
A.
P.]
B
264
353
114, 217
Baal Bacchus
(see Bel).
149
Baptism
sq.
sqq.,
125
sq.,
213,
258,
259
188,
Basil, Saint
Bastards
133 175,
21
sq.,
121
Adultery Age, as
308
sq.
sq.
bership mem-
Bel
173,
177,
196, 251
sqq.
4,
qualification of
Benedict
XIV
267
Masonic
Benevolence,
sqq.
S,
316
Masonic
38,
84
393
39
sqq..
Bible
14, 97,
157 ;
221
sqq.
; How
Masonry
The Masonic
Rite
sq. sqq.
corrupts XI
330
tile
238
381,
Bibliography
Black
Ball
Rite,
393,
Scottish
10, sq.
381,
the
23S
12
406
sq.
of
Constitutions
223,
231
Ancient
Arabic Shrine
"
Order
419
of
248
187,
W.
230
Mystic
Anderson
"
Brahm
sq.
Annus
XII Masonic
"Bright Buchan,
Buck,
Buddha of
294
Masons" P.
423
6, 360
sqq.
11,
28
Anointing
Priest
High
J. S.
and
87
sq.,
89
Character 415
sq.
Buddhism
143,
262,
Anti-Religious
Freemasonry
Builder
19 sq.,
(see
Masonic
Mason).
224,
of
sq.
the
Craft
Burial,
225
Catholics
as
Masons
379.
Apuleius Arcana,
IS, "Azoth
19, 3
Cabala Catholic of
sq.
"
(see
62
sq.,
Kabbala). IV,
sqq.
21
Church
249
sq.,
54.
The,
34
Masonry
VII,
"
59,
Catholic X,
93
Fortnightly
Review
"
Philosophorum
229
427
428
Catholic, Why
to
a
INDEX
it is
a
reclaim Mason
David
264
Death, Masonic 373 Decalogue 129s sqq. Deception, Masonic 14, 37,. 42, 45
Declaration
10,
12,
13,
Chastity 131
sqq.
133,
292,
301
Children
of Light"
49
sq.,
216
Christ
45,
to be made by 65 sq. Degrees 360, 376, 380 Desagulier, Dr. 357, 360 Diaz, President 417 "Discipline of the Secret"
didates can-
21
sq. sqq.
Divine
in Man,
The
207 sq.
of
Masonry
Classes Clement
excluded
from
ship member-
of the 420 Star, Order Egypt and Egyptians 44, 51 sq., sq. 53, 242, 263, 299 Eleusis 128, 153, 210, 2ig Emanations, Ten divine, in man
Eastern
"
Ten of The Commandments, 193 England, the mother of modern Masonry 305 sqq. 261 Masonic 369 Freemasonry Communion, sq. Sacraments.) also Enlightenment, See Shock of (See Supper, Mass, En Soph 189 Entered Apprentice 2, 3, 42, 58, Square). (see Compasses 61, 62, 367, 380, 391 Confession 258 Euclid, Legend of 352 sqq. Confucius 250, 2S3, 262, 294 European Freemasons 89 20, 32 Consecrations, Masonic " 188 Eve 187, 389, Continental Masonry Masonic Exclusiveness, 332 sq. 394
Cowan
339 sq.
Excommunication,
90
sq., 100,
Creed, Masonic
103,
Extreme
Unction
374
Cromwell, Oliver 357 Cross, Symbolism of the 43 sq., 48 sqq., SI Cross (Masonic author) 123 of the 43 Symbolism Crown,
Crucifix 342 Ansata Crux 52 sq. Cteis 134 of Rites Cumulation
D
Faust Fellow
Fessler
210
Craft
393
367, 380,
90
391
Festivals,Masonic
Fides 128
395
sq.
sq.
217
of 125, 299 Fire, Symbolism in France, Masonry 72, 113, 31S. 369, 384 sqq., 406 sqq., 411, 414, 418 Franklin, Benjamin 292 sqq., 298 of A science Freemasonry: speculative morality 8; a
INDEX
429
H
science
sq.,
as
7, 61
religion 32
94 of
sqq.
;
gion reli-
80 sqq.
corrupted and
uncorrupted 103 sq. ; the true catholic religion of mankind the of prehistoric era 112;
127
sq. ; sqq.;
sqq.,
217, 219,
313
Hermaphrodite
ISS175
Divinity
153,
Christianization
of
unity of 378 sqq.; universality of 387 sqq. Freemasons (see also, Mason) Many good men i, among 16; esoteric and exoteric 10, initiates are 18, 265 ; how misled purposely 12, 13. European 20, 32; Speculative 265
"
Hermes Trismegistus 242, 244 Hermeticism 13, 247 He-She 155, 176 sqq., 178, 188
High
Hiram
Ho-hi
Priest 228
(see Priesthood).
History Masonic 346 sqq. (see He-She). Horace 138 A Masonic iii Hymn,
Masons
130
letter 143 sqq., 170, "G," The 368, sq., 409 sq. Gallagher, Charles F. 418 of Masonry General Laws 392 Genesis 264 Genius, The, of Freemasonry
423
sqq.
Masons of Ignorance many Masons, (see also. Bright Fork Knife and Degree) 8,
12,
13
IHOH
Geometry
George
Rose
144 I 359
sqq.,
ISO, 15"
der Or-
tend pre-
Gethsemane
255
Initiation
sqq.,
6, 58
212,
141. sq.
213,
IIS sq., 273 sqq., 410 Globe 390 sq. Gnostics 174, 181, 211, 212, 92, God, The, of Masonry
sqq.,
sqq.
228
141
330 I. N.
IS7. D.
18;
means
of
36, 38
sqq.
G.
O.
International
Freemasons
Convention
of
174, 409 sq. Architect Grand 150 sq. Grand Grand Grand
court
the
verse Uni226
Chaplain
Lodge
of
Communications
80
sqq.
as a
381
of
appeal 35,
72
Grand Grand
England
3S8,
'
139, 187 of Masonry" "Jack Cades 33 the of tians Egypthe sungod Jah,
Jachin and
Boaz
173.
174,
177
sq.,
361 ; of the U.
S.
Jehovah
ISS,
146, 147
170
sqq.,
149,
iS4,
383
Greece
174.
17s.
178,
119
430
179, ii86 sq.,
INDEX
188, 19s,
230,
252, 409
125 M
Jerusalem 130 Jesuits so, 54 Jesus (see Christ). Jewish Encyclopaedia 213 Saints 82 John, The two
13s, 137. 141, 223, 243
Mackey,
his
Albert
G., Sketch
sqq.;
life IV
his
of works
Jonah 149 Joseph 243 Juno 198 Jupiter 149, IS9, 170, 198 398 Jurisdiction,Masonic
K
standard considered 34 Macrobius 121 119, Man, The Threefold 204 Ben Manasseh Israel 205
sq.
Marconis, J. E. 403 Mark Master's Song 11 Mary 300 Maryland Doctrine 398
Mason=builder
129 130
Kabbala
147,
209, 241,
and
Kabbalists
sqq.,
146,
Masonic
also 239,
sqq.,
sq. ; speculative
162, 170
213 242
sq.,
181, 206,
217,
215,
sq.,
Temples Taverns.)
Truths
Mason
364
42, 43 232,
sq.
(See
sq., 244
246
Masonic
Mass Master
2S3 Kadosh
257
Khurum,
Kloss
"
Master
Fork
47
391
Master's
Degree
"
6,
Knights Templar 370, 421 sq. Koran 71, 97, 108, 232, 233, 234, 248
sq.
Lady
Masons "Landmarks"
324
sq.,
304
23,
sq.
417, 418, 419, 422 Mitchell, John 394 Mithraic Mysteries (see also Mysteries) 129, 140, 230, 258 Modern Society of Rosicrucians
420
Lanci
175, A.
Mohammed
262, 294
Doctrines
35, 59
Lawrence,
Lemmi,
S. C. 417
sqq.
sqq.
"Morals
Mason
"
(Pike)
Learned
6, 28
VIII
Libraries, Masonic 30 sqq., 37 Light 200 sq. Lily 299 sq. Lines, The two parallel 136 Lingam 46, 133, 264 Lodge, A symbol of life 61 sq. ; of the symbolism 136, 138; definition of a 221, 368; extent
of
a
Moses
264, 295
Moulton, Geo. M.
390 sqq.
Mysteries, Ancient 72, pagan 118, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 156, 177, 205, 210, 217, 218, 242, 243, 357 Mystic Ladder 230 Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets
420
Lotus
299
INDEX
431
Point
140
Mystic Shriners 419 sq. Mystic Tie 391 sq. 161 Mythology, pagan Myths, Masonic 350 sq.
N
within
Circle
134,
136,
Politics,Masons
in 284 sq.
Popery
423
44
sq.
Porphyry
Nailor, Allison 417, 418, 419 Nature Worship 156 New Masonic Testament, The
IS7 Nineveh 149 Noah 355 sq. Numa 128
Pre-existence
of
Souls
14,
348,
Masonic
231
High
Processions, Masonic Proselytism 319 sq. Psyche 197, 198 Purity, Masonic vs.
132
sqq. 10,
Christian "Ancient
Cannes 243 sq. Officers of a Lodge 392 sq. Ohio 235, 236 Oliver, Dr. 222, 349, 351,
Pythagoras
Friend
and 72,
the
356,
22
69,
366
On 173, 174, 177
246, 354
sq., 375
Q
Qualifications of 348
109,
sqq.
"
Candidate
157
sq.
323
sqq.,
"
Qualities
170,
Paganism,
and
American
sonry Freema-
117 sqq., 266 Palmer, Henry L, 417 Masons" "Parrot 10, 11, 28 Past Master 224 Pentateuch 24s Phallic Worship 132 123, 131,
sqq.,
backwards 180 Reading Words M. Ragon, J. 381, 393 Rebecca, Daughters of 303 Rejection of Candidates 331 sq. Relief, Rule of 335 sqq. Revival of Masonry 358 sq. Richardson, James D. 416,417 Religion, Masonic, notion of 59
sqq.,
loi
sq.,
a
311
sqq.;
sonry Ma;
230,
13s. 29S
137.
140.
152.
107,
is
84
sqq.,
94
Phallus 133 sq., 135, 152, 187 Pharaoh 252 Philo 191 Phtha 52, 242 416, 417 Pierce, W. Frank Pike, Albert IX sqq., 159, 213, 414 Pius IX Pillars Plato 253 Plautus
sectarian" no sq. Rite of Perfection 395 Rites, Masonic 380 sq. 26 sq., 89, 228, Ritual, Masonic
385
Rose
sqq.
of and
Degree 46 sq., 48, 261, 262, 273 sqq., 393 Rose, The symbolism of the 45
49, 51,
SM. .
Croix
Rosicrucianism
420
228, 357,
173,
393,
121
380,
404-
208
432
INDEX Supper, the fraternal 260 sq. Emanuel 247, 248 Swedenborg,
Sabaism Samothrace
219
"
124
Swedish Masonic
127,
"
Rite
393
,
Sacraments,
258
143,
sqq.
Symbol, Masonic
sq.
38
sqq.,
41. 5"
10, sq.,
128,
153,
Sancta Sanctis 198, 199 Sanctum Sanctorum 88 sq. Satan 194 sqq. Satan Worship 196 Saturn 149
Symbolism
14,
of
Freemasonry
42, 132
38
sq.,
sqq.,
45. S4
sqq., 209 sq.,
57, 228
61 192
127, 197
143
sq.,
sqq^
sq.,
sq.,
sq., 23s,
Schisms, Secrecy,
Syria
127,
389
219
Masonic
the
2 essence
23,
12,
25 of
13,
sqq.,
36, 41 sqq., 56, 321 sqq. Sephiroth 189, 192, 239 Serpent 263 Sex in Deity 178; as a 155, Masonic qualification for membership 324, 328 Shea, J. G. 270 Shock of Enlightenment (see of Entrance) also. Shock 69 76 sqq.,
"
228,
213
229
sq.
the The
first
temples
sq.
of
Freemasonry
363
Temple,
130,
real
85 sqq., its temple Egyptian 138 ; mon's Solo131 ; archetype 266, 299, 3S2 139 sqq.,
Masonic Border
391
Tessellated
Shock
of
Tetragrammaton lightenment 187 EnEntrance and " 58 sqq., 63, 126, Texas 236
^
154,
172, 173,
212,
294
Thirty-second Degree
343
Sign
Sin
of
Distress
Barton
Thirty-Third
the U.
Degree
229 Masons
in
216
S. 420
Smith,
Social 6
Socrates
418
of
Aspect
253
130,
Freemasonry
Solomon of
134,
sq.,
139
Thoth 52, 242, 26s 161 sq. Tolerance, Masonic of the Apprentice's Tracing-Board degree 165, 391 Tradition, oral 23 sqq., 36 of Knowledge Tree 264
Trestle
Board,
the
Mason's
233
the
sq.
sqq.,
sqq.,
216
sqq., 356 Sovereign College of Allied Masonic Degrees 420 222, 223, Square and Compasses 228, 231, 230, 22s, 227, 224,
Triangle 165 sq., 169, 178, 229 Tripolo 267 in 396 Turkey, Freemasonry
U Unction
"
239,
241,
244
(see
Extreme
"
tion). Unc-
Statistics 399 sqq. 85 of Foundation Stone C. 413 sqq. Strother, John Sun Sun
230
120,
123, 131,
13S,
Uniformity of Work 24 sq. Unity of Freemasonry 378 sqq. 388 sqq., 40S, 413 sqq. Universality of Masonry 47