PREFACE
"The archetypal image of the wise man, the saviour or redeemer, lies
buried and dormant in man's unconscious since the dawn of culture; it is
awakened whenever the times are out of joint and a human society is
committed to a serious error" *
In the present era, when indeed, "the times are of joint," Freemasonry
should eagerly embrace the sacred opportunity of awakening the torpid
consciousness of the leaders of the masses to the real truths of Masonic
Wisdom. This is my prayer and my hope; and this desire has inspired me to
present in this treatise the illucidation of those Masonic truths as I
have been given the light to see them.
* C. G. Jung Modern Man in Search of a Soul. Harcourt, Brace & Co.
FOREWORD
"A younger Brother shall be instructed in working, to prevent spoiling
the material, for want of judgement, and for increasing and continuing of
Brotherly Love."
A good man and true makes known to a friend his desire to become a
Mason. He is given a petition for the degrees of Masonry, which he fills
out and presents to the Lodge. It is received; a committee of
investigation is appointed and functions, efficiently or otherwise, and if
elected, the degrees are conferred in due course. The newly-made Master
Mason sits among the brethren, is present at the conferring of a few
degrees, becomes wearied of the same routine repeated over and over again
and soon fails to attend Lodge, except, perhaps, on some special occasion
such as a Past Master's night, a banquet, or possibly not at all.
Over twenty-five years of experience in Masonry has forced the
conclusion that this lack of interest of Masons in Masonry is largely due
to failure on the part of the Lodge to teach the science and philosophy of
Masonry, especially to the younger members, at the time when their
curiosity is aroused and their interest is flaming. Masonry has been
defined as a "system of morals, veiled in allegory and illustrated by
symbols." The ritual nowhere adequately explains these symbols and
allegories, and not only conceals the true explanations but also often
actually misleads. To transform rough ashlars into perfect ashlars,
reading, study and instruction are required. It should not be forgotten
that only stones capable of being fashioned should be admitted to our
Venerable Institution, and that the INTERNAL QUALIFICATIONS should be
carefully scrutinized.
Masters of Lodges, officers and coaches are continually being asked
questions by those of inquiring minds which they are all too often unable
to answer. The necessary information can be obtained only from the
continual and persistent study of the writings of those Masonic students
who have placed their thoughts and researches upon the written page, thus
conforming to the admonition to the "well informed brethren" to impart
knowledge to the lesser informed.
In this book Brother Steinmetz has created an elementary textbook and
guide for the study and understanding of the esoteric meanings of Masonry.
He is enanently well qualified to undertake this task, being well versed
in the Mysteries, a student of Hebrew, a clear, logical thinker, realizing
the necessity for continued Masonic education. Since it is intended for
the use of the beginner rather than for the advanced Masonic Scholar there
are many quotations from the monitorial work to facilitate its use. S ome
students of Masonry may not agree entirely with the interpretations herein
set forth. Even these, however, will benefit as they will need arrive
logically at a better explanation, and in so doing advance themselves.
A careful study of this book will implement the student with proper and
plausible explanations of many of the symbols and allegories contained in
the three degrees, and will stimulate him further to pursue the study of
the deeper esoteric meanings of our exceedingly rich ritual. It must not
be forgotten that although the Grand Lodge system dates from the year
1717, Masonry or the thing called "Masonry" has existed from the beginning
of man.
This instructive, thought-provoking book should be in the hands of
every English speaking Mason. The study and possession of the knowledge
contained in it will bring about greater understanding, fellowship and
brotherhood among those who are privileged to be members of this
Honourable Institution.
HERBERT H. SCHULTZ MD., P.M., 32ø
"Most holy and glorious Lord God, the Great Architect of the Universe,
giver of all good gifts and graces; in Thy name we have assembled, and in
Thy name we desire to proceed in all our doings. Grant that the sublime
principles of Masonry may so subdue every discordant passion within us, so
harmonize and enrich our hearts with Thine own love and goodness, that the
Lodge at this time may humbly reflect that order and beauty which reign
for ever before Thy throne."
