| Manuscript, Archives,
and Rare Book Library
EMORY UNIVERSITY
______ ____!
THE HIRAM-BOOK I.
Compiled and arranged for the use of Lodges of IVrfeelion under
the jurisdiction of the United Supreme Council 330 of the
A.-. A.'. S.\ Rite of Freemasonry for tiie Southern
Jurisdiction of the lT. S. A,, Grand Orient
Washington, District of Columbia,
BY
ITJ,.\ TirORXTOX A. .IACICSOX. '.Ml
M.'. P. . SOV ' ' .R.\ COM.'.
.-.ate
.'.Dto
°RDO AB CHAO.
THIS BOOK IS THE PROPERTY
OF THE
A. .A. , S.'. Rite ef Freemasonry for the Southern Jurisdiction U. S. A.,
AND IS NEVER SOLD.
Six Rituals and "Secret Work" only will be furnished to each
body of the Fourteenth degree. The presiding officer will keep the
copies at all times in his own possession, unless when he deli
them for the time being to the subordinate officer who ma
absence temporarily fill his place. When a presiding officer*™
his office, his Rituals and Secret Work goes to his successor
3n ©eo ^tbucta (Ttoafta
United Supreme Council of the 33d Degree,
A.'. A.'. S.'. Rite of Freemasonry for the Southern Jurisdiction U. S. A.
Grand Orient at Washington, in the District of Co-
The following Ritual of the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th,
9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th Degrees inclu¬
sive of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, shall
be the Ritual of this Jurisdiction, and no other in
any of the said degrees ; nor any that is not certified
by the M.\ P.-. Sov.\ Gr.\ Commander and Secre¬
tary General to be authentic, under the Great Seal
of the United Supreme Council.
By command of the United Supreme Council.
In testimony whereof, we
do hereunto set our hand and
affix the Great Seal of the
United Supreme Council, at
the Grand Orient aforesaid,
on the day and date above
written.
lumbia, the
day of the Hebrew month
A.-. M.-
and the
day of
19.... V.\ E.-.
M.\ P.*. Sov.\ Gr.". Commander.
INTRODUCTION.
INEFFABLE AND SUBLIME DEGREES OF THE ANCIENT
AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE.
Y111LK the degrees of the Ancient and Ac-
cepted Scottish Rite commence with the
I'D Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft or Com-
—- — panion. and Master Mason ; yet, in the
" J United States, all authority over these de¬
grees by the Supreme Council is waived, and they
are exclusively administered by the Blue or Symbolic
Lodges, working under the jurisdiction of Grand
Lodges and the representative system. In other
countries, the first three degrees are given in Lodges
of Perfection.
The Ineffable degrees begin with the fourth or Se¬
cret Master, and conclude with the fourteenth or de¬
gree of Perfection. It is not required that the can¬
didate should be in possession of any other than the
Symbolic degrees.
To open a Lodge of Grand, Elect, Perfect, and
Sublime Masons, opens all the degrees contained
within it; but a body of any degree may be opened
or closed independently.
The order of business in bodies of the rite is as
follows :
1. The reading of the records of the previous com¬
munication or communications as yet unread and
approved. It is judicious at every session that the
record be read immediately before closing, that proper
corrections, if any, may be made, and before the
formal record is made up.
2. Report from the Grand Hospitaller or Almoner
of any special case for relief or assistance.
4
INTRODUCTION.
3. Reports of Standing Committees.
4. Reports of Special Committees.
5. Applications for reception or admission to mem¬
bership.
0. Receptions.
7. Unfinished business.
8. JNew business.
9. Passing the Box of Fraternal Assistance :—no
body of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite can
ever be closed without so doing—and any member
wishing to retire before being called upon by the
Grand Hospitaller, must deposit his contribution in
the box provided for that purpose.
The amount collected is under the immediate charge
of the Grand Hospitaller or Almoner, and is dispensed
by him with the consent of the presiding officer, first
to a worthy distressed brother ; or, if there be none
such, then to some needy and deserving profane. In
either case not permitting the recipient to know from
what source the relief comes.
All brethren are required to be clothed with the
apron, collar, and jewel of the body in which the de¬
gree is open, or that of a higher degree.
It is not essential that all the brethren should be
clothed in the regalia of the degree being worked at
a reception, as this would lead to unnecessary ex¬
penditure, accumulation of clothing and depositories.
One or more, for exemplification, are recommended,
or so many sets as are essential for the proper ex¬
hibit of the drama of the degree, and the remainder
of the brethren are clothed in the highest degree of
the series.
The records of bodies, from the fourth to the thirty-
first inclusive, are termed Engraved Tablets";
those of the Consistories and the Supreme Council,
" Balustres."
The Battery of mourning, is made by the blow
being given upon the left forearm.
In closing bodies of the Ancient and Accepted
Rite, the following formula should immediately pre-
eede so doing : The presiding officer asks of his First
INTRODUCTION.
5
Assistant if he has anything further to bring before
the body, for the benefit of Masonry in general, of
the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, or of that
body in particular. If the First Assistant bas noth¬
ing to offer, the same query is made to the Second
Assistant ; and if he has nothing to offer, both of
the Assistants are directed to make known to the
brethren in their respective valleys that if any one
of them has anything which he desires to offer for
the benefit, etc., the floor is tendered to him. If
nothing is offered, the Assistants reply to the pre¬
siding officer that silence reigns in their respective
valleys.
The following formula is required in the declara¬
tion either of opening or closing an assemblage in
the Ancient ;ind Accepted Scottish Rite :
'•To the Glory of the Grand Architect of the Uni¬
verse—in the name and under the auspices of the
United Supreme Council of the Sovereign Grand In¬
spectors General of the 33d Degree, for the Southern
Jurisdiction of the United States of America, and by
the power in me vested as * * * I hereby pro¬
claim and declare," etc.
The first four officers of a Lodge of Perfection must
be possessed of the Sixteenth degree.
The number of regular members of a Lodge of Per¬
fection does not exceed 27 ; but of honorary mem¬
bers, the number may be discretionary.
Beside the festivals of the 24th of June and 27th
of December (the two Saints John days), the Lodges
every year celebrate the building of the first temple
of the Grand Architect of the Universe, on the 5th
day of October, when "the Prince most ancient and
high in decrees shall preside. If the Wardens are
least ancient, their places shall be filled by those
most ancient in degrees, whom the T. \ P.-. Grand
Master shall name and the same rule is to be ob¬
served with the other officers also. The Lodges also
observe the 5th day of the 5th month Ad, in memory
of the dedication of the first temple.
6
INTRODUCTION.
At all receptions, the Grand Orator makes dis¬
courses in illustration of the Order, instructs the
new brethren, and explains to them the mysteries,
and exhorts them to continue their zeal, fervor, and
constancy. If he has observed any indiscretion or
dispute, he informs the Lodge of it, and takes meas¬
ures accordingly.
If a brother is a prey to misfortune, it is the duty
of every brother to endeavor to alleviate his unhappy
situation.
It is the duty of the"Hospitable Brother" to visit to
sick brethren, and see that they are well attended to.
If any brother is taken sick, and it shall come to
the knowledge of any member, he shall give early
advice of it to the Hospitable Brother and to the
Lodge, that the necessary relief may be administered.
Should a brother die, all the brethren are expected
to attend and assist at his funeral.
Secrecy in reference to the mysteries, as well as
the transactions of the Lodge regarding the character
of a brother or applicant, being an indispensable ob¬
ligation, the T. •. P.\ should always, before closing
his Lodge, remind the brethren of their duty in this
respect, and enforce it in the usual manner and form.
It is the duty of every subordinate body in the An¬
cient and Accepted Scottish Rite to make annual re¬
turns to the United Supreme Council of its transac¬
tions during the year; and its b}7-laws, before be¬
coming effective, should be submitted to the Deputy
or to the Council of Deliberation of the State for ap¬
proval, and a copy transmitted to the Secretary-Gen¬
eral of the United Supreme Council, for filing.
In cases of expulsions, a vote of two thirds of the
members present should be required.
FIRST SERIES.
The symbolic degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fel¬
low Craft or Companion, and Master Mason, are con¬
ferred in a Symbolic Lodge in the United States, and
reference to them here is not deemed essential.
SECOND SERIES.
INEFFABLE DEGREES
of the
Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The Ineffable degrees are enumerated in the following order:
4. Secret Master;
5 Perfect Master;
6. Intimate Secretary;
7. Provost and Judge;
8. Intendant of the Building;
9. Elect of Nine;
10. Knight Elect of Fifteen;
11. Sublime Knight Elected;
12. Grand Master Architect;
13. Royal Arch of Enoch;
14. Grand Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason.
Unless it is expressly stated to the contrary, the officers of a Lodge
of the Ineffable degrees are:
1. Thrice Puissant Grand Master;
2. Hiram of Tyre, Deputy Grand Master;
3. Venerable Senior Grand Warden;
4. Venerable Junior Grand Warden;
5. Grand Orator;
6. Grand Hospitaller:
7. Grand Treasurer;
8. Grand Secretary and Keeper of the Seal;
9. Grand Master of Ceremonies;
10. Grand Captain of the Guard;
11. Grand Organist:
12. Grand Tiler.
8
INTRODUCTION.
And are stationed as represented in the following diagram:
: treas. :
Hospitaller.
* * * * * *
* * *
h. of t. k. s.
Organist.
**o
%:
o *
►A *
SEN. GR. WAR.
No brother should be permitted to sit in a Lodge, unless
properly clothed.
FOURTH DEGREE-SECRET MASTER.
HISTORY.
Tins degree originated with King Solomon, imme¬
diately after the assassination of H.\ A.*. King
Solomon selected seven of the most worthy and ex¬
pert Brothers from the Craft, and appointed them
guardians of the Sanctum Sanctorum, and of the sa¬
cred furniture of the Holy place. They were called
Secret Masters, and in due time were advanced to a
higher degree, and as vacancies were thus created,
others were elected to till their places.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
A Lodge of Secret Masters represents the Holy place or Sanctu¬
ary of the temple, and is hung in black, strewed with white tears,
and contains the brazen salver of water, with napkins and bunch
of hyssop ; the seven-branch candlestick, which is lighted in the
East. All the jewels are in crape, as the Lodge is in mourning for
the Grand Master, H.\ A.'. The furniture also is draped in black.
Within the Lodge is represented the Sanctum Sanctorum of King
Solomon's Temple, which contains the ark of the covenant, with its
furniture; the ten golden candlesticks; the tablets of the law; the
altar of incense; the table of shew-bread; the pillar of beauty, veiled;
the Enochian pillar; a delta, etc.
Before the entrance to the Sanctum Sanctorum, are the two brazen
columns; at the door (which must have two leaves) are four small
columns, to which wires are attached, on which run hangings of four
10
FOURTH DEGREE.
colors—white, blue, purple and crimson. Over the East is a large
circle enclosing three luminous triangles interlaced, forming nine
beams, with a blazing star in the center; in the center of the star, a
Yod; on the nine points of the triangles, the letters E, A, J, J, Y, A,
O, A, H, initials of Eloah, Adonai, Jehovah, Jahve, Yod, Achar,
Osem, Alom, and Hizois.
The Thrice Puissant represents King Solomon; is dressed in black
robes, bordered with ermine, etc., and holds a scepter in his hand.
He wears a wide blue ribbon from right to left, to which is attached
a triangle of gold. On the table in front of him are the apron, col¬
lar, gloves, and jewels of this degree, and a white robe; also a
wreath of olive and laurel.
The Grand Inspector (Senior Warden), is seated in the West. He
wears a sword, cap, white robe, apron, collar, gloves, and jewel of
the degree.
All the officers are clothed the same as the Senior Warden, with
their appropriate jewels.
Officers:—Thrice Puissant Master; Grand Inspector (Senior War¬
den); Master of Ceremonies; Secretary; Grand Orator; Captain of
the Guard, and Tiler.
Clothing:—During a reception, all present except the officers wear
long black robes, with hood, and white gloves turned over, with
black at the wrists.
Apron:—Triangular shape, white, bordered with black, with blue
flap; on the flap a golden eye; on the apron the letter Z, within a
wreath of olive and laurel.
Collar:—Wide white ribbon, bound with black, at the bottom a
black rosette, to which is fastened the jewel.
Jewel:—An Ivory Key, with the letter Z on the wards.
Hours of Work:—From dawn to close of day.
Symbolic Age:—Seven.
Battery:—o o o o o o o
Moral:—The duty of Secrecy; or, Silence and Fidelity.
SECRET MASTER.
11
OPENING.
T.\ P.\ o (C. of G. and M. of C. rise) Brother Cap¬
tain of the Guard, are all present Secret Masters %
C. of G. examines and reports.
G.\ of G.\ All present are Secret Masters, Thrice
Puissant.
T. •. P.-. Your station and duty?
C. \ of (jr.-. In the North, to see that the Holy
place is duly guarded.
T. •. P. \ How are we guarded ?
C. \ of G. •. By a Secret Master, at the entrance of
this Holy place.
T.P.-. Attend to your duties and inform the
Guard that we are about to open a Lodge of Secret
Masters.
C. of G. stations his guard.
C.\ of G.\ Thrice Puissant, your order has been
obeyed.
T. •. P. •. Brother Master of Ceremonies, your place
and duty ?
M.-. of C. \ In the North, to see that the brethren
are duly clothed ; to prepare all candidates, and to
conduct them to the Holy place.
T. \ P.\ o o (G. I. rises.) Brother Adoniram, are
you a Secret Master ?
G. \ I. \ I have passed from the square to the com¬
pass extended to seven degrees.
T. •. P. -. What are you taught as a Secret Master?
12
FOURTH DEGREE.
G.I.'. The duty of Secrecy and Silence.
T.'.P.'. What is the hour ?
G. •. I.'. The morning star has driven away the
shades of night, and the great light begins to gladden
our Lodge.
T.m. P.'. As the morning star is the forerunner of
the great light which begins to shine on our Lodge,
and we are all Secret Masters, it is time to commence
our labors.
ooo
Whoso draweth nigh to the contemplation of the
Ineffable mysteries, should put off the shoes of his
worldly conversations ; for the place whereon he
stands is holy ground. Set a watch, O Jehovah, be¬
fore my mouth, and keep thou the door of my lips.
Brother Adoniram, you will give notice that I am
about to open a Lodge of Secret Masters by the sa¬
cred number.
6r.\ I. '. Brethren, the Thrice Puissant is about to
open a Lodge of Secret Masters by the sacred num¬
ber seven ; give your attention and assistance to the
work.
T. \ P.To order, my Brethren !
All stand at salute.
All applaud o o o o o o o
Signs of first three degrees.
T.\ P.'. makes sign of S.\ M.'.
Answered by all the brethren.
All salute.
T.\ P. \ I declare this Lodge of Secret Masters
duly opened and in order for business. Brother Cap¬
tain of the Guard, inform the Guard.
SECRET MASTER.
13
RECEPTION.
The Candidate is dressed in white (as a Levite), with a thick green
veil over his eyes, clothed as a Master Mason, bare legged, slip-shod,
and is conducted to the entrance by the Master of Ceremonies, who
gives the alarm o o o o o o o
G.\ I.-, ooooooo
T •. P. . ooooooo
C. \ of G.\ Brother Grand Inspector, there is an
alarm of seven at the entrance of this Holy place.
G.\ I.-. Thrice Puissant, there is an alarm of seven
at the entrance of this Holy place.
T. \ P.\ Brother Grand Inspector, see the cause
of the alarm, and who knocks as a Secret Master.
G.'. /. \ Brother Captain of the Guard, see the
cause of the alarm, and who knocks as a Secret Mas¬
ter.
C. of G. o o o o o o o at the inner door and opens it slightly.
C.-.ofG.-. Who approaches this Holy place? Who
comes here ?
J/~. \ of C.\ A Brother Master Mason, well quali¬
fied and worthy, wishes to be admitted among the
expert brethren, and to assist in the duty of guard¬
ing the sacred furniture of this Holy place.
C.'. of G.\ Is lie a Master Mason, and is he well
qualified and worthy for the duties of this Holy place?
M. •. of C. \ He is.
C.\ of G.-. I must examine him as to his Masonic
qualifications : [a few brief points.] You will wait until
14
FOURTH DEGREE.
the Thrice Puissant has been informed of your
request. [Enters the Lodge.] Brother Grand Inspec¬
tor, a Master Mason, well qualified and worthy,
wishes to be admitted among the expert brethren,
and assist in the duty of guarding the Sanctum Sanc¬
torum, and the sacred furniture of this Holy place.
G. \ 1. \ Is he a Master Mason, and is he well qual¬
ified and worthy for the duties of this Holy place?
C.\ of G.\ He is.
G. \ I. \ Who vouches for him \
C. ■. of G.-. I do.
T. \ P. \ Brother Grand Inspector, what is the
cause of the alarm at the entrance of this Holy place ?
G. \ I. \ A Brother Master Mason, well qualified
and worthy, wishes to be admitted among the expert
brethren, and assist in the holy duty of guarding the
Sanctum Sanctorum, and the sacred furniture of this
Holy place.
T. \ P. \ Brother Adoniram, you were the first
made Secret Master, to you I look for counsel and
advice in this matter.
G. \ 1.Thrice Puissant, the Brother has been ex¬
amined as to his masonic qualifications, and he is
vouched for as being well qualified and worthy for
the duties of this Holy place.
T.P. \ Such being the case, there being a vacan¬
cy, if there is no objection on the part of the brethren,
you will admit him among the guardians of the Sanc¬
tum Sanctorum : Are there any objections ? There
being none, Captain of the Guard, let him enter, and
after being conducted seven times around the Lodge
for the reading of the lesson, he will be placed in the
West.
secrp:t master.
15
The M. of C. and candidate enter, and pass around the Lodge
seven times, the following lesson being read by the Thrice Puissant
and Grand Inspector; music and chant as indicated.
LESSON.
T. \ P.*. The Lord of host shall be exalted in judg¬
ment, and God that is holy shall be sanctified in
righteousness.
Chant. Oh Lord ! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
Gr. I. . Woe unto them that draw iniquity with
cords of vanity and sin, as it were with a rope.
Chant. Oh Lord! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
T. \ P.\ Woe unto them that call evil good, and
good evil ; that put darkness for light, and light for
darkness ; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for
bitter.
Chant. Oh Lord! have mercy upon us; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
O. . l. \ I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high
and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above
it stood the seraphim ; each one had six wings ; with
twain he covered his face, with twain he covered his
feet, and with twain he did fly.
Chant. Oh Lord ! have mercy upon us; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
T.\ P.\ And one cried unto another, saying:
Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts : the whole
earth is full of his glory.
Chant. Oh Lord ! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
16
FOURTH DEGREE.
O.'. \ And the posts of the door moved at the
voice of him that spake, and the heavens were filled
with smoke.
Chant. Oh Lord ! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
T.\ Pr. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am un¬
done! because I am a man of unclean lips, for my
eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts. Then
flew one of the seraphim unto me, having a living
coal in his hand, which he had taken from off the
altar, and he laid it upon my mouth, and said : Lo,
tins hath touched thy lips; thine iniquity is taken
away, and thy sin is purged.
Chant. Oh Lord ! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
G.-. I.'. Bless the Lord, O my soul ; and all that
is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord,
O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.
Chant. Oh Lord! have mercy upon us; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
T. \ P. -. Who forgivetli all thine iniquities ; who
healeth all thy diseases ; who redeemeth thy life
from destruction ; who crownetli thee with loving
kindness and tender mercies.
Chant. Oh Lord ! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
G.\ I.-. He hath not dealt with us after our sins;
nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as
the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his
mercy towards them that fear him.
Chant. Oh Lord! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
secret master.
17
T.P. -. As for man, his days are but as grass ;
as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the
wind passeth over it, and it is gone ; and the place
thereof shall know it no more.
The Candidate is stationed in the West and caused to kneel.
PRAYER.
Our Father, who dost rule the heaven and the
earth, and all that in them is : Thou Great Supreme,
who art the Author of every good and every perfect
gift: deign to guide us in our endeavor to combat
darkness, and to direct the mind and thoughts of
this our brother at the threshold, in the solemn ap¬
proach to the innermost mysteries of thy holy Tem¬
ple, where we seek for truth, for the full understand¬
ing of the divine lessons contained in thy " Word,"
and the final attainment of the salvation of the soul
immortal.
May this brother feel that the doctrines contained
in the new vows he is now about to assume, are wor¬
thy of his noblest Masonic thoughts and of his holi¬
est reverence.
Aid us, O Lord! to so instruct him to look within
his own heart—that innermost sanctuary—that he
may prepare to receive the impress of thy Holy Name,
which shall be a seal of eternal life.
In thee, O Lord ! alone resides the power ! To
thee be all the glory. Amen.
T.-. P.'. W oe unto those who aspire to that for
which they are unfitted*
G.\ I.-. Woe unto those wTho assume a burden
which they cannot bear.
T. \ P.Woe unto those who assume duties light¬
ly, and afterward neglect them.
O. \ I.Duty is with us always, inflexible as fate.
18
FOURTH DEGREE.
T. *. P. \ In health or sickness, in prosperity or
adversity, duty is with us always, exacting as ne¬
cessity.
G.\ I.\ It rises with us in the morning, and
watches by our pillow at night. In the roar of the
city and in the loneliness of the desert, duty is with
us always, imperative as destiny.
T. •. P. \ You hear, my Brother. Do you with all
your heart agree, that duty is the one great law of
Masonry ; inflexible as fate, exacting as necessity,
and imperative as destiny X
Cand.-. I do.
T. •. P. \ What seek you in your journey ?
M.\ of C.\ Truth and the lost Word.
T.\ P.\ Brother Adoniram, you will see that the
Candidate is placed in due form.
The Grand Inspector places the Candidate in position, laying on
the floor, his arm under his head, knees slightly bent.
G. \ 1. •. Thrice Puissant Master, the Brother Mas¬
ter Mason is placed in due form.
T. •. P. \ What is that form ?
G. *. I. \ The form of the Hebrew letter Z.
T. •. P.-. To what does that form allude %
G.-. I. -. To the Word and duty of a Secret Master.
T. \ P.-. My Brother, so humble a position well
becometh every one who aspireth to the rank of a
Levite. Before honor is humility. This Temple
which you have now entered, represents the Solo-
monial Temple, and this apartment the Holy place,
SECRET MASTER.
19
separated by a wall of white marble from the Holy
of Holies, with one door ; for the duty of guarding
which, you are to be set apart. You have already
been taught, that as a speculative Freemason you
are to be built up as a living stone of a spiritual tem¬
ple not made with hands : yea, that every renewed
Freemason is himself a Temple, the foundation of
which should be laid in humility and contrition of
spirit ; otherwise the glorious inhabiter of the Eter
nity will not deign to dwell therein. The great light
which will be exhibited to you in this degree, the
full resplendency and mysterious meaning of which
bursts upon you when you arrive at perfection in
Ancient Craft Masonry, is emblematical of that di¬
vine illumination which will shine in the Holy of
Holies, of which your renewed mind is the represen¬
tative ; a great light whose ineffable glories will be
increased a thousand fold.
Brother Adoniram, you will now raise the Brother
from the level to the plumb.
The Grand Inspector raises the Brother by theSecret Master's grip.
T. \ P.-. My Brother, on the level lies the whole
system of man's duty to his fellow man ; but his
duty to God rises in a perpendicular, which with the
level forms the square. The level, too, is the apt
emblem of Death, the great leveller of mortals, while
the plumb betokens the resurrection of life and im¬
mortality beyond the grave. Brother Master of Cer¬
emonies, you will conduct the Brother to the brazen
salver in the South, that he may wash ; and you will
sprinkle him seven times with hyssop, dipped from
the brazen salver, that he may be clean.
The Master of Ceremonies takes the Candidate to the salver, and
during the lecture sprinkles his hands and feet seven times.
T.\ P.-. Whoso draweth nigh to the contempla¬
tion of the Ineffable mysteries, let him put off the
shoes of his worldly conversation and corrupt affec¬
tions, for the place whereon he standeth is Holy
20
FOURTH DEGREE.
ground. May we ever remember to keep a watchful
eye upon the feet of our affections. Before we ap¬
proach the house of the Lord, let us seriously con¬
sider whether we have taken straight steps in the
paths of his commandments, and whether our feet
are set in due order and cleansed according to the
purifications of the Sanctuary. Let us wash, as it
were, in the laver of repentance. Wash you and
make you clean ; put away the evil of your doings ;
acknowledge your iniquities and return unto the
Lord, for he will have mercy upon you, and our Elo-
him will abundantly pardon. Let us incite each
other to practice virtue and shun vice. While our
feet are prepared for walking in the ways of his com¬
mandments, our hands should in like manner be pre¬
pared for working in his service.
Saith the father of our ancient Most Puissant
Grand Master, " I will wash my hands in innocency,
and so will I compass thine altar, O Jehovah."' May
he who beareth the keys of David be pleased now to
open to this Brother a door of entrance to the Ineffa¬
ble degrees. My Brother, you have hitherto seen
only the thick veil which hides from your view the
Sanctum Sanctorum of God's Holy Temple. Your
fidelity, zeal, and constancy, have won for you the
favor you are now about to receive, of viewing some
of our treasures and gaining admission into the Se¬
cret or Holy place. Before this can be done, it will
be necessary for you to take an obligation to be faith¬
ful even unto death.
Brother Adoniram, you will cause the Candidate
to recede to the West and advance by seven steps to
the altar.
G. \ I.-. Brother Master of Ceremonies, let the
Candidate recede to the West by seven steps. He
will now advance as an Entered Apprentice ; give the
due guard and sign [_gii)eii\. Advance as a Fellow
Craft; give the due guard and sign [given']. Ad¬
vance as a Master Mason ; give the due guard and
sign [giv>en\ Take four additional steps forward to
SECRET MASTER.
21
the altar, there kneel upon both knees, .|. .f. . L-
covering the four great lights of Ineffable Masonry,
.||. . W. .ja. .f. of .|. 4- • [• in front of .||. heart.
Thrice Puissant, the Candidate is in due position
at the altar of obligation.
T. \ P. -. ooo The brethren will assemble, forming
a triangle about the altar. Brother Captain of the
Guard, see this order obeyed.
The brethren being thus assembled, the Thrice Puissant and his
Deputy advance to the centre of the base of the triangle.
My Brother, you will repeat after me your
OBLIGATION.
I, , do hereby and hereon most solemnly
promise and vow, in the presence of Him who dwell-
etli between the Cherubim and this Lodge of Secret
Masters about me assembled, that I will not reveal
any part or parts, point or points, of the mysteries
of the Ineffable degree of Secret Master which I have
already known, am about to receive, or which I may
be hereafter instructed in, to any person or persons,
unless it be to a true and lawful Brother or Brothers
of this degree ; and not unto him or them until after
due trial, strict examination, or sure information by
me had from a well-known Brother that he or they are
worthy of that confidence, or within the body of a
just, perfect, and regular Lodge of Ineffable Masons,
or by the sanction of constitutional authority ;
That I will not write or print these secrets, or in
anywise indite or delineate them whereby they shall
improperly become known through my unworthiness ;
That I will not be concerned, aid or assist in con¬
ferring this degree, unless it shall be by the author¬
ity of a Lodge of Perfection ;
That I will not be concerned, aid or assist in con
ferring this degree upon any one, unless he has pre¬
viously received the three degrees of Entered Appren-
22
FOURTH DEGREE.
tice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason in a due and
regular manner ;
That I will acknowledge the authority, and obey
the general laws, rules, regulations and decrees of
the United Supreme Council, of the Sovereign Grand
Inspector General of the Thirty-third degree, and
the rules and by-laws of this or any other Lodge or
Council in whose jurisdiction I may live, or of which
I may become a member, so far as they come to my
knowledge. To all of which I promise and swear,
binding myself under no less a penalty than that of
having my lips sealed in everlasting silence, if 1 will¬
fully violate this my solemn obligation. So help me
God : Amen.
Immediately after the last words, let ,1|. .IF. .ja. fingers of ||.
. be pressed firmly upon ,||. ,-y. of ,||. Candidate, the Thrice Puis¬
sant saying-:
Set a watch, O Jehovah ! before my mouth, and
keep thou the door of my lips.
Brother Grand Inspector, remove the veil from the
eyes of our Brother.
The Thrice Puissant and his Deputy advance to the altar and
separate, the curtains in the East are drawn aside and the folding
doors are thrown open, that the Candidate may behold the furniture
in the Holy of Holies.
Chant. Ch Lord ! have mercy upon us ; for thy
goodness endureth forever.
T. \ P.\ My Brother, on being brought to light
in this degree, you discover before you as in the pre¬
ceding degrees, the three great lights of symbolic
Masonry. The book of the testimony, the square
and the compasses, and in addition a fourth great
light, which belongs not to symbolic Masonry, "the
Triangle.'1 The first three degrees are called sym¬
bolic, because they symbolize the higher mysteries,
and not, as is generally supposed, because they deal
in signs and symbols exclusively ; for signs, sym¬
bols, and allegories are peculiar to all Masonic de-
SECRET MASTER.
23
grees. This triangle, with ns Ineffable Masons, is
deemed a great light, because by its historical and
mystical association, it reminds ns of the Grand
Architect of the Universe, to whom we are all bound
to render our devotions and whose will it is to obey.
It reminds us continually of the only one true God ;
and its three sides or angles, that he is our Creator,
Preserver and Benefactor ; and of his three atributes,
Wisdom, Strength and Beauty ; also of the primitive
instruments used by him to produce order out of
chaos, tire, light, and spirit, and finally of those
lovely Masonic attributes, Faith, Hope, and Charity.
My Brother, you may now arise and approach the
East, where I will instruct you as to the object and
purpose of Ineffable Masonry.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate to the Thrice
Puissant.
T. \ P. \ o In the Ineffable degrees, every lesson
taught is connected directly or indirectly with our
dearest interest in this or in a future world. The
whole system tends to promote the glory of God and
the good of mankind. In the symbolic degrees these
things are taught generally ; in the Ineffable and
Sublime degrees, in detail.
Genuine Freemasonry, my Brother, is a system of
morals, and approaches religion ; in fact, such was
primitive Freemasonry. Ineffable Freemasonry is
practised with an eye single to the improvement of
our morals, and a reference to those sublime truths
which constituted its principal essence in the earlier
ages of the world. It rises above all human institu¬
tions and forms a beautiful auxiliary to the practice
of religion. In noplace, except in God's Holy Word,
are the moral and social virtues enforced by such
awful sanctions and decrees.
The degrees upon which you are now entering are
called Ineffable, because they treat of the Ineffable
name of the Great Jehovah, and of his ineffable es¬
sence, of which the inscription on the golden trian-
24
FOURTH DEGREE.
gle is emblamatical. Each degree has for its sacred
word one of the currupt names of the Deity, expres¬
sive of his attributes. We have beside these the
true name, the correct pronunciation of which will
be given to you when you arrive at the Perfection of
Ancient Craft Masonry, to the sublime and myste¬
rious degree called Perfection.
One of the principal secrets of primitive Freema¬
sonry, was a knowledge of the true God, his char¬
acter and attributes. By the medium of names we
obtain a knowledge of persons and things. Jeho¬
vah, therefore, in suiting himself to our capacity,
hath communicated a knowledge of himself and his
gracious purposes toward his people, by a great va¬
riety of names. These, therefore, are descriptive,
not arbitrary ; they have sense as well as sound.
Respecting the Grand Architect of the Universe, his
name is Himself and Himself is his name. Through
the poverty of human language we are wont to dis-.
tinguish between God and his attributes. But God
and his attributes are one. We speak of his wis¬
dom, justice, and love. Bat God is not only en¬
dowed with all these perfections, but he is the em¬
bodiment of them. The defect of our intellect in
comprehending him, is like the weakness of our sight
in beholding the sum. The names of God were in¬
tended to communicate a knowledge of himself. By
these, we are enabled to acquire some scanty ideas
of his essential majesty, goodness and power, and to
know in whom we are to believe, and what we are to
believe of him. O Jehovah our Adonai, how excel¬
lent is thy name over all the earth. Thy name de¬
clares the glory of Elohim. Th^re appears to be
power in the name which revealeth secrets.
Freemasonry is an art of great compass and ex¬
tent. A knowledge of its mysteries is not attained
at once, but by degrees. Each degree in Ineffable
Masonry is intended to inculcate a moral lesson and
the practice of some particular virtue. Advances
are made only by much instruction and assiduous
application. Each step is progressive, and opens
SECRET MASTER.
25
new light and information. According to the prog¬
ress we make, we limit or extend our inquiries, and
in proportion to our capacities we attain a greater
or less degree of perfection.
Freemasonry is an allegorical system. Every doc¬
trine and ceremony hasits mystical reference,which is
not always apparent at the first blush ; so that where
the uninformed and weak find only mystery, the true
initiate and thoughtful possess food for the employ¬
ment of the noblest faculties. The true Mason will
not rest satisfied with mere ceremonies, which in
themselves are cold and heartless, but will study to
comprehend their mystical signification. We, as
Ineffable Masons, retain and continue to practice
these signs and symbols, because we believe they
work closer into our hearts th^n mere words.
My Brother, I will now instruct you in the sign,
grip, word, etc., of this degree.
Place .||. .IF. .ja. fingers of . ||. . (_. ,-y-.
N.\ Place .||. . W. .ja. fingers of . ||. .f. . .-v.
JCIP.".Begin with .||. true grip of a M.\ M.\ ; then slip ,|j. 4.. .
up ,||. other's arm, taking hold of .||. elbow under side, and say:
one, 1 z; .||. other, n o z.\
P.'. V •. n o z 1
S. . V.\ o a y 1anoda au j.*.
The peculiar lesson taught in this degree, my
Brother, is Secrecy and Silence. God is frequently
worshiped in silence. All things at the creation took
their beginning from silence. Pythagoras compelled
his disciples to pass through a probation of two or
three years to thoroughly inculcate this lesson. From
man we learn to speak, from God to be silent. (^)
The word Ziz, or Zizon, is sometimes rendered
Balustrade, or entrance into the Sanctum Sanctorum.
There were four small pillars placed at the threshold
of the Sanctum Sanctorum surmounted with heads
of cherubim, from which were suspended hangings
of blue, white, purple, and crimson of fine twined
linen, running through golden rings. Between the
26
FOURTH DEGREE.
inner columns was a door of two leaves made of olive
wood sculptured and gilt, and turning upon pivots
of precious metal, on each side of which stood a
superb brass pillar surmounted with capitals three
cubits high, representing a vessel covered with net
work, containing lilies and pomegranates bearing up
a sphere. Noah was called Ziz, being the first of a
new world or order of things. It also alludes to the
threshold or entrance into the Ineffable degrees and
mysteries to which we welcome you with a Brother's
welcome, charge and investiture.
INVESTITURE.
Permit me now, my Brother, to receive you as a
Secret Master, and give you rank among the Levites.
[Places a wreath of laurel and olive on the Candidate's head.] I
crown you with a wreath of laurel and olive.
The laurel, an emblem of victory, is to remind you
of rhe conquest you ought to gain over your passions;
the olive, a symbol of peace, which should ever reign
among us. With Wisdom, Strength, Prudence and
Fortitude, may you soon obtain the favor of an en¬
trance into the secret vault. It will be your own
fault if you are not found worthy, and do not in due
time arrive at the sacred place, where rapt in divine
joy you may contemplate the pillar of Beauty.
I decorate you, my Brother, with an ivory key.
suspended from a white and black ribbon, an emblem
of fidelity, innocence, and prudence. On the key
you behold a symbol which teaches you to keep a
tongue of good report ; and it is also an emblem of
silence, and refers to the silence which distinguishes
a Secret Master.
The apron and gloves, which I now present you,
are the marks of the candor of all Secret Masters.
You will now go to the Grand Orator, who will
give you the history of this degree, and the lecture
explaining the sacred furniture.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate to the Grand
Orator, who gives the
SECRET MASTER.
27
HISTORY.
G. \ 0.\ My Brother, before the death of our
Grand Master, H.\ A.-, the Sanctum Sanctorum and
the sacred furniture of the Holy place was without a
guard. After his tragical death, our Grand Master
King Solomon, deemed it advisable to set over it a
special guard, and appointed seven of the most ex¬
pert and worthy Brothers about the temple, who were
in due time advanced to higher dignities and replaced
by others to act as such guard. By the rank you
now hold among the Levites in the quality of Secret
Master, you have become one of the guardians of the
Sanctum Sanctorum, and I place you in the number
of seven
The eye upon your apron is to remind you to keep
a watchful eye upon the sacred treasures you are set
apart to guard, and over the moral conduct of the
Craft in general.
Remember, too, that the eye of the Lord is on them
that fear him.
What remains to perfect you in this first step of
Ineffable Masonry, is a candid and careful review of
what you have seen and heard, and will be found in
the lecture of this degree. Go, my Brother, and sa¬
lute the Grand Inspector, Officers and Brethren as a
Secret Master, and take your place as such at the
entrance of the Sanctum Sanctorum Your age is
th ree times twenty-seven, accomplishing eighty-one.
The Candidate having saluted the officers and been shown his
place, returns with the Master of Ceremonies to the Grand Orator.
LECTURE.
O. \ 0.- The lecture, my Brother, explains the
ceremony of your initiation and the furniture, etc.,
of the Sanctum Sanctorum and Holy place. The
batter}^ and the number seven, allude to the seven
brothers who were lirst made Secret Masters. As
28
FOURTH DEGREE.
Ineffable Masons, we are taught that it alludes to
Enoch, who was the seventh from Adam : To the
seven cardinal virtues : To happiness, to which our
Brethren thought there were seven degrees : To the
seven stages of life : To the seven days in the week,
the last having been set apart for silence and rest:
To the seven laws or principles of Noah, given for
the government of his posterity.
The two brass pillars at the entrance of the Sanc¬
tum Sanctorum, represent the pillars of cloud and
fire which conducted the children of Israel through
the wilderness. The two columns of light and spirit
are also emblematical of the orbs.
The two leaves of the door into the Sanctum Sanc¬
torum represent Faith and Love ; and the entrance
into the Holy of Holies, that there is but one way
for us to walk if we expect to find an entrance into
the Perfect Lodge above.
The furniture which you are set to guard as a Se¬
cret Master, are, the Altar of Incense, the table of
Shew-bread, the Golden Candlesticks, and especially
the Ark of Alliance.
The Altar of Incense represents the heart of man,
from which the perfume of prayer continually should
arise for the bestowment of heavenly blessings.
The shew-bread and the candlesticks denote that
refreshment and spiritual food are light for the head
and heart.
The Altar of Alliance was placed in the centre
of the Sanctum Sanctorum. Excellent as was King
Solomon's Temple in riches and splendor, and in the
Wisdom, Strength and Beauty of its construction
and architecture, its great and principal excellence
consisted in that the awful name of the Great Jeho¬
vah was there, as lie expressly promised it should be,
at its dedication. It contained that which no other
building before or since contained—the Ark of the
Covenant, the Shakinak, the Urim and Thummim,
the Sacrifice, and the Holy fire.
This ark was constructed by Bazubel, son of Uri,
of the tribe of Judali. It was covered within and
SECRET MASTER.
29
without with pare gold. In it was the table of the
covenant, and beside it the book of the law. The
Holy of Holies was a perfect cube of thirty feet. It
was made of cedar wood, which being odoriferous
and impenetrable, set forth the perpetuity of heav¬
enly glory and the incorruptible state of the never
fading fragrance of the graces of the blessed.
The Holy place represents the heart of man puri¬
fied, renewed, and enlightened.
You will now take your seat as a Secret Master-
The Master of Ceremonies seats the Brother.
T. \ P. -. Brother Adoniram, it is our order that
you cause to be erected a tomb, or obelisk of white
and black marble, west southwest of the Temple,
wherein shall be deposited the embalmed remains of
our lamented Grand Master H. A. The white mar¬
ble shall denote the innocence and purity of our de¬
parted Grand Master, and the black the untimely
death of him we mourn.
G. \ l.\ Thrice Puissant, your order shall be
obeyed.
CLOSING.
T.\ P.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, inform
the Guard that I am about to close this Lod ge of
Secret Masters.
C.of G.-. Brethren of the Guard, the Thrice Puis¬
sant is about to close this Lodge of Secret Masters.
Your order has been obeyed, Thrice Puissant.
T. \ P.\ oo Brother Grand Inspector, are you a
Secret Master ?
G. \ I. •. I have passed from the square to the com¬
pass extended to seven degrees.
T. \ P.'. What lesson was you taught as a Secret
Master ?
30
FOURTH DEGREE.
G.\ I.\ The duty of secrecy and silence.
T.\ P.'. What is now the hour %
Q.\ I.-. The close of day.
T.\ P.-. What remains to do 1
O. -. l.\ To practice virtue, shun vice, and remain
in silence.
T. \ P.\ As nothing remains to do but to practice
virtue and shun vice, let the will of God be done. It
is time to rest. Give notice to the Brethren that I
am about to close this Lodge of Secret Masters by
the sacred number.
O. •. 1. •. ooo Brethren, the Thrice Puissant is about
to close this Lodge of Secret Masters by the sacred
number. Give your attention and assistance to the
work. To order, my Brethren.
* * * Same as at opening, except in reverse order.
T.P. -. I declare this Lodge of Secret Masters
duly closed.
o
FIFTH DEGREE-PERFECT MASTER.
HISTORY.
"This degree was originally established as a grate¬
ful tribute of respect to the memory of a departed
worthy Brother."—Mackey.
"In this degree is held the Lodge of Sorrow, and
are performed the funeral ceremonies of any Brother
of the Sublime degrees."—Uarson.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
The Lodge is hung with green cloth from eight white columns,
four on each side, and equi-distant. An altar, draped in black
strewed with tears, is placed in the East at the foot of the throne.
In front of the altar is a coffin, draped in black, resting on a bier,
with the jewel and apron of Grand Master H.\ A.-.
Four Lights are placed at each of the cardinal points.
Marks of blood are in the northeast section of the Lodge.
The star in the interlaced triangle of the Secret Master's degree
is changed from yellow to red, so as to throw a lurid light.
The Senior Grand Warden is the Master, and represents Adoni-
ram. He is styled Right Worshipful or Respectable Master, and is
clothed as a Prince of Jerusalem. He is seated in the East.
The Junior Grand Warden is seated in the West, represents Za-
bud, and is styled Grand Inspector. He wears a black robe and
cap, together with the order and jewel of a Prince of Jerusalem.
The Captain of the Guard represents Zerbal, Captain of King Sol¬
omon's Guards, and is dressed as a Perfect Master.
32
FIFTII DEGREE.
The Master of Ceremonies represents Stolkin, and is dressed as a
Secret Master.
Clothing:—Black robe and hood drawn over the head; apron>
collar, jewel and white gloves, bordered with black.
Apron:—White, with a green flap; on the centre is a cubic stone
surrounded by three circles with the Hebrew letter 1 in the centre.
Collar:—A watered green ribbon, at the end of which is suspended
the jewel.
Jewel:—A compass open on a segment of a graduated circle at an
angle of sixty degrees.
Battery:—o o o o denotes life, death, virtue and immortality.
*
Moral:—That we should learn to pay due respect to the memory
of a deceased worthy Brother.
OPENIJN'G.
R. \ W. \ o Brother Captain of the Guard, are all
present Perfect Masters ?
C.\ of G.\ [Examines.] We are, Right Worshipful
Master.
R.\ W.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, your sta¬
tion ?
C. \ of Or. In the North.
R. -. W. \ Your duty %
C.\ of O.-. To see that the Guards are duly posted.
R.TP. •. How is a Lodge of Perfect Masters
guarded ?
C.\ of (J. \ By four guards stationed at the en¬
trances of this Lodge.
PERFECT MASTER.
33
R.-.W.-. Attend to your duty and inform the
Guards that we are about to open a Lodge of Perfect
Masters.
C. of G. does so and reports.
C.\ of G.\ Right Worshipful, your orders have
been obeyed. The G uards are posted, duly instructed
and vigilant.
R. -. W. \ Brother Zabud. are you a Perfect Master %
G.\ 1. ■ I have seen the tomb of our lamented
Grand Master H.-. A.-., and have in company with
my Brethren shed tears thereat.
R.-.W.'. What is the hour ?
G. \ I.'. It is four.
R.-. W.\ It is time our workmen attend to their
duties, o o o Brother Zabud, give notice that I
am about to open a Lodge of Perfect Masters.
G.\ 1. -. Brethren, the Right Worshipful Master
is about to open a Lodge of Perfect Masters.
All give the * * * of the first three degrees and of Secret Master
and Perfect Master. Right Worshipful o o o o; Grand Inspector
o o o o; All applaud with hands o o o o
R.-. W.\ I declare this Lodge of Perfect Masters
duly opened. Brother Captain of the Guard, inform
the Guard.
Captain of the Guard does so and reports. Right Worshipful o
RECEPTION.
Officers take their stations and seats in the Lodge.
R.-.W.'. o Brethren, the time set apart for the
performance of the last sad rites over the mortal re-
3
34
FIFTH DEGREE.
mains of our departed Grand Master, has arrived.
Let us divest our hearts of all temporal thoughts.
Brother Grand Inspector, you will cause the proces¬
sion to be formed.
During the above remarks, the Master of Ceremonies will retire
and prepare the Candidate and himself with a white robe and a
green silk cord about his neck.
G.\ /.*. Brother Captain of the Guard, you will
cause the procession to be formed in the North.
The Captain of the Guard forms the procession on the North
side of the Lodge, in single file; the lights are all turned down till
they present the appearance of stars; the interlaced triangle in the
East throws a red light over the Lodge; the torches borne by Breth¬
ren are lighted.
After the procession is formed, the Captain of the Guard will re¬
port:
C.\ of G.\ Brother Grand Inspector, the proces¬
sion is formed and awaits your order.
G.\ I.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, you will
direct the procession to move.
The Captain of the Guard will lead the procession. In the mean¬
time, the Master of Ceremonies approaches the door and knocks
o o o o One of the guard opens the door and says:
Guard.-. Who comes here \
3f.\ of C.\ Brethren who have received the de¬
gree of Secret Master, and are now desirous of being
admitted to this Lodge of Perfect Masters.
Guard. \ It cannot be. This is the anniversary of
the death of our Grand Master EL*. A.-., and our
Brethren are even now performing the last mournful
ceremonies over his remains.
M. \ of C.-. Our love and reverence for our de¬
parted Grand Master, have induced us to solicit the
PERFECT MASTER.
35
privilege of participating in the holy and sacred
duties of our departed Brother.
Guard.-. The love and admiration expressed for
you by our Grand Master King Solomon and the
noble Adoniram, prompts me to accede to your re¬
quest. Enter, my Brethren, and may the lesson you
this day receive be a lasting one.
The Master of Ceremonies and Candidate enter and remain in
the West, spectators of the scene to follow. The procession con¬
tinues to move four times around the Lodge, during which the fol¬
lowing ode will be sung with solemn music.
ODE.
T une— G reenville.
Come ye sighing sons of sorrow,
View with me your Brother's tomb;
Learn from it your fate, to-morrow
Death perhaps may seal your doom.
R.-. W.\ Darkness, death and the grave are re¬
served for all men.
Sad and solemn flow our numbers,
While disconsolate we mourn
The loss of him who sweetly slumbers
Mould'ring 'neath the silent urn.
R. \ W.\ One fate comes alike to all ; the night of
death after the short day of life.
Once, when full of life, he never
Proved unfaithful to our laws;
May we, like him, prove zealous ever,
To promote the glorious cause.
R. W.\ After the death and the grave come the
resurrection, and light and life eternal.
To th' exalted power Almighty,
Softly breathe an ardent prayer,
On his sacred mound tread lightly,
While we wipe the falling tear.
36
FIFTH DEGREE.
When the procession halts, it will face inward and around the
coffin, and the Right Worshipful and Brethren will give the words
and Grand Hailing Sign of Distress of a Master Mason.
R. -.W.-. Let us pray. [All kneel.]
PRAYER.
Oh Almighty and Eternal God ! There is no num¬
ber of thy days or of thy mercies. Thou has sent
us into this world to serve thee, but we wander far
from thee in the path of error. Our life is but a span
in length, and yet tedious, because of the calamities
that enclose us on every side. The days of our pil¬
grimage are few and evil ; our bodies frail ; our pas¬
sions violent and distempered ; our understanding
weak, and our wills perverse. Look thou upon us,
our Father, in mercy and pity. We adore thy ma¬
jesty, and trust like little children to thine infinite
mercies. Give us patience to live well, and firmness
to resist evil, even as our departed Brother resisted.
Give us, O most merciful Father, faith and confi¬
dence in thee, and enable us so to live, that when we
come to die wTe may lie down in the grave like one
who composes himself to sleep, and that we may be
worthy hereafter to be remembered in the memories
of man. Bless us, O God : bless our beloved frater¬
nity throughout the world ; may we live and emu¬
late the example of our departed Brother ; and
finally, that we may in this world attain a knowl¬
edge of thy truth, and in the world to come, life
everlasting. Amen.
li.-.W.-. Brethren, nothing further remains for
us to do but to proceed on our mournful journey.
Let all be made in readiness, and Brother Captain
of the Guard, see that no laggard Brother remains
behind.
Discovers Master of Ceremonies and Candidate.
PERFECT MASTER.
37
C.\ of G.\ How is this, my Brethren? why do
you stand thus idly by, and where are the sable
robes you were required to have, on this mournful
occasion? Answer!
M. . of C.\ We are Secret Masters, and have
passed from the square to the compasses extended
to seven degrees. The love and reverence we bear
for our departed Grand Master have induced us to
solicit the privilege of being permitted to partici¬
pate in the holy and sacred duties of our departed
Brother.
of G.-. You will await. Right Worshipful
Master, Brethren Secret Masters who have exhibited
great zeal and energy in our cause, are desirous of
obtaining the privilege of being permitted to partic¬
ipate in our mournful but holy and sacred duties.
It \ W. \ Let the Brethren stand forth. Are not
these the Brethren who displayed such fervency and
z-al in the preceding degree?
C.\ of G.\ The}1- are.
Ji.-.W.-. My Brethren, you have been admitted
here in the midst of our most solemn ceremonies.
Further you cannot proceed until you join with us
in a funeral procession commemorative of the death
of our Grand Master H.\ A.-. Brother Grand In¬
spector, you will cause the procession to be formed
in the North.
G.\ I.-. Brother Captain of the Guard, you will
cause the procession to be formed in the North.
The Captain of the Guard forms the procession in the North,
double file, and facing the East, the torches preceding, borne by
Brethren. After the formation:
38
FIFTH DEGREE.
LESSON.
R. \ W.\ My Brethren, in the preceding degrees
of: Masonry, our travels were to remind us of the
journey of human life, in which Freemasonry is an
enlightened and beautiful path. Our present march
will be gloomy and funereal. Our Grand Master is
no more. Death is among us ; our Lodge is in mourn¬
ing, and the great calamity has fallen upon us.
Death reigns in all portions of our time. All the
succession of time ; all the changes of nature ; all
the varieties of light and darkness, and every con¬
tingency to every man and to every creature doth
preach our funeral sermon, and calls us to look and
see how'Time is ever preparing the grave where we
must lay our sins and our sorrows.
Death regards not those sweet engagements and
pleasing intercourses, and those improving joys which
are known to Freemasons. Death summons away,
in the midst of his day and usefulness, many a be¬
loved Brother of our craft. We behold his sun at
meridian and rejoice at its brightness, but alas ! it
so on sets and the evening shades of existence close
around him forever. Let us, then, imitate the ex¬
ample of our illustrious Grand Master H.\ A.1., and
by a wise and virtuous life, make preparation for a
peaceful death.
The procession will now move three times around the Lodge.
On the second time around, the four Brothers selected for that pur¬
pose will take up the coffin and bear it with the procession. After
the third time, the procession proceeds to the tomb and the coffin
is deposited before it. During all this time the Right Worshipful
follows the procession, and says:
7?.-. W. \ Remember now thy Creator in the days
of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the
years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no
pleasure in them ; while the sun, or the moon, or the
stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after
the rain : In the day when the keeper of the house
PERFECT MASTER.
39
shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow them¬
selves, and the grinders cease because they are few,
and those that look out of the windows be darkened,
and the doors shall be shut in the streets when the
sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at
the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of music
shall be brought low : Also, when they shall be
afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in
the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the
grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail;
because man goeth to his long home, and mourners
go about the streets ; or ever the silver cord be loosed,
or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken
at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was, and
the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
On arriving at the tomb, the Brethren divide in two parallel
lines, and the Right Worshipful Master and Grand Inspector pass
between them and stand at the foot of the coffin, facing the Brethren.
The Brethren drop sprigs of acacia on the coffin, which is placed in
the tomb.
-R.*. W. \ Farewell, my Brother! Blessed be his
rest, fragrant the acacia upon the hallowed sod that
covers him.
Brethren, we have performed the last sad duties
to our friend and Brother. We have closed his eyes
and deposited his body in the silent tomb. Let us
now return to our Lodge, and not remain in idleness
while the assassins of our Brother are at large.
All return to the Lodge, and the Right Worshipful places him¬
self behind the altar, the Candidate before him.
R.-.W.-. Brethren, this ceremony was originally
established to commemorate the death of our Grand
Master H. \ A. whose labors at the building of the
first Temple, and whose tragical death furnishes so
much of the mystical knowledge of Ancient Craft
Masonry. It is retained by us that it may be im¬
proved as a lesson both useful and instructive. Let
40
FIFTH DEGREE.
us look forward to brighter scenes, when our de¬
parted Brother, who has been smitten down by the
resistless hand of death, shall be raised from his
prostrate state at the word of our Supreme Grand
Master, and admitted to the privilege of the Perfect
Lodge above.
Brother Grand Inspector, you will cause the Can¬
didate to approach the altar by four steps, kneel,
and contract his obligation as a Perfect Master, with
his 4- • I- raised to heaven and his .f. . [. cover¬
ing the four great lights.
OBLIGATION.
I, , promise and swear, in the presence of
Him who dwelleth between the Cherubim and this
Lodge of Perfect Masters about me assembled, that
I will not reveal any part or parts, point or points,
of the mysteries of the Ineffable degree of Perfect
Master which I have already known, am about to re¬
ceive, or which I may hereafter be instructed in, to
any person or persons, unless it be to a true and law¬
ful Brother or Brothers of this degree ; and not un¬
to him or them until after due trial, strict examina¬
tion, or sure information from a well known Brother
that he or they are worthy of that confidence, or
within the body of a Lodge of Perfect Masters or by
sanction of constitutional authority.
That I will not be connected, aid or assist in con¬
ferring this degree upon any one, unless he has reg¬
ularly received the degrees of Entered Apprentice,
Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, aud the degree of
Secret Master under the authority of a Lodge of
Perfection.
That I will be faithful in performing my obliga¬
tions with all men ; that I will pretend not what is
false, nor cover wliat.is true, and that the measure
of my affirmation or denial shall be the understand¬
ing of the person with whom I contract in any man¬
ner whatsoever.
PERFECT MASTER.
41
To all of which I promise and swear, binding my¬
self under no less a penalty tnan that of being smitten
on my temple with a gavel, if I willfully violate this
my solemn obligation. So help me God : Amen t
Amen ! Amen ! Amen !
The Right Worshipful then draws the green cord from the Can¬
didate's neck, and relieves him of his white robe, saying:
Rr. W.\ Thus, my Brother, would I remove the
fetters with which vice may have enslaved you, and
by the power I have received from the Most Potent of
Kings. I now raise you to the degree of Perfect Mas¬
ter.
Raises him by the grip of Perfect Master.
Receive now the signs, token and words of a Per¬
fect Master.
Strike a blow on your 4- temple with ,||. 4- • I - anc' back
.fe=. .f. .ft.
of Admiration: Raise both arms and towards heaven, and
let .||. former fall crosswise belly and drop .||. .-A~. .t=. ground.
of Recognition: Each advances his 4- -ft. until ,||. points meet,
and ,||. 4- -kn. come together, then each places his 4- • I - upon his
heart.
(ISP.-. Take each other with .||. true grip of a M.\ M.\ and at ,||.
same time each place .||. .f. . behind .[|. 4- shoulder of ,||. other,
and press it F times with ,|. .f., saying by syllables alternately am.-,
ah.', oc.'. en.-, then clinch ,||. .f. of .||. .IV. together closing
them, not interlaced, raising .|. thumbs and putting them together
at ,||. points so as to form a triangle.
P.-. V.aicaca '.
S.'. V.-. AVE Y. *.
INVESTITURE.
I with pleasure invest you with the collar and
jewel of a Perfect Master. The devices on the apron
will be explained to you by attending to the Lecture.
42
FIFTH DEGREE.
The jewel is to remind you to measure your conduct
through life by the exact rule of equity. Your green
collar is an emblem of hope and of our faith in the
immortality of the soul, which shall triumph over
the grave and never die.
My Brother, you will go and salute our Grand In¬
spector, Officers and Brethren, and return to the East.
Salutes and returns. The Candidate is then seated, and an alarm
o o o o is heard at the door.
G. \ I.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, ascertain
the cause of the alarm.
The Captain of the Guard ascertains through the wicket.
C. \ of G. \ The Grand Masters King Solomon and
Hiram, King of Tyre, are about to enter this Lodge,
Brother Grand Inspector.
G.\ I.-. Right Worshipful Master, the Grand Mas¬
ters King Solomon and Hiram, King of Tyre, are
about to enter this Lodge.
R.\W.\ You will receive them with the Grand
Honors.
The Captain of the Guard forms two rows of four each, of the
Brethren at the door, facing inward, armed with swords, and four
with lights, two on each side.
C.-. of G.\ Draw swords ; form arch of steel.
They draw their swords and form the arch by each opposite cou¬
ple causing the points of their swords to touch, and sufficiently high
that the Kings can pass under without obstruction. The Kings,
who are dressed in full robes, with crown and sceptre, as designated
in the degree of Perfection, are then admitted, and enter side by
side, solemn music playing; they march by four steps, all the Breth¬
ren giving the Grand Honors by four and four, that is, the Brethren
clapping their hands, and the Officers with their gavels
o o o o
PERFECT MASTER.
43
As they pass under the arch, the Guards fall in by two's and form
an escort. The Kings proceed to the East.
K. \ S.m. Right Worshipful Brother Adoniram, it
is our will and desire to visit the last resting place
of our dear friend and worthy Brother, H.\ A.-.
And we desire that in making the examination of
the tomb, and in paying homage to the Illustrious
dead, we be accompanied by the Masons generally,
in reverse order of their rank. Death reigns in all
portions of Time and meets us everywhere.
King Solomon takes the chair, the Right Worshipful at his side,
and one step below him; the King of Tyre on the extreme right.
H. •. W.\ Brother Grand Inspector, you will form
the procession in the East, to escort the Grand Mas¬
ters to the tomb of our late Grand Master, H.-. A.-.
6r.\ I.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, you will
form the procession in the East, to escort our Grand
Masters to the tomb of our late Grand Master, H.\
A.-.
The procession is formed by the Captain of the Guard, and
marches four times around the Lodge, the Kings bringing up the
rear; then it proceeds to the tomb, opens right and left, and the
Kings pass through the lines and approach the tomb. The Kings
examine it and give the # of admiration.
K.\ S.\ It is accomplished and complete. Soft
and safe to our departed Grand Master be his mortal
bed ; with fragrance eternal may the acacia sprig
here flourish. While we his memory cherish, let us
his virtues imitate and his death improve. Our harp
is turned to mourning, and our organ unto the voice
of those who weep. Let the beauty of our Elohim
be upon us and establish thou the works of our hands.
Establish thou it. When a few more years are come,
then shall we go whence we shall not return. O sat¬
isfy us early with thy mercy that we may rejoice and
be glad. The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting
44
FIFTII DEGREE.
upon them that fear him, and his goodness unto the
children of men. My Brethren, whom the Lord lov-
etli he chasteneth.
Brother Adoniram and Brethren, the will of God
is accomplished. Let us enter into silence.
All kneel, and after a silent prayer,
Amen. So mote it be. [All rise.]
My Brethren, the guilty assassins of our Grand
Master H. •. A.-, are still undetected. In the pres¬
ence of this emblem of our sorrow and regret ; under
these funeral arches, dumb witnesses of our religious
homage ; before these symbols of the nothingness of
our nature and the immensity of God ; let us vow
and promise, that the blood of our late Grand Mas¬
ter that still stains the floor of our Temple, shall not
be removed until the assassins have been detected
and brought to justice.
All.'. [Extending right hands to heaven.] We promise
and vow.
K.\ Sr. Heaven hears and the angels record the
vow. And now, my Brethren, let us return to our
temporal duties.
They return to the Lodge, which has been fully lighted by the
four lights East, West, North and South. The torches are extin¬
guished,
R. \ IF. \ Brother Master of Ceremonies, you will
conduct our Brother to the Grand Orator for the his¬
tory and lecture of this degree.
The Candidate is conducted to the Grand Orator.
HISTORY AND LECTURE.
G. \ 0.\ Some time after the death of our Grand
Master H. •. A.-., King Solomon was informed that
the body was found and deposited near the lower
PERFECT MASTER.
45
end of the Temple, on the north side, near the pit
where his jewel was discovered. It was in this pit
that the assassins deposited the body previous to re¬
moving it to the place where Stolkin found it under
the sprig of acacia. The perpetrators of the horrid
deed were not at this time discovered, and it was not
certain but that they might have the hardihood and
effrontery to mingle with the Brethren, and seem to
join in the general grief, in order to better conceal
their guilt and prevent suspicion. In order to ascer¬
tain the truth of the matter. King Solomon caused a
general muster of all the workmen to be made, and
in calling the roll found that all the workmen an¬
swered to their names except three, who were after¬
wards found to be the criminals. Happy to have
the poor consciousness of having found the precious
remains of so great and so good a man as H.\ A.*.,
and having an opportunity of paying a just tribute
of respect to his memory, he ordered the Noble Ad-
oniram, his Grand Inspector, to make suitable ar¬
rangements for his interment. The Brethren were
directed to attend with white gloves and aprons, and
he forbade the marks of blood which had been spilled
in the Temple to be effaced until the traitors should
be discovered and punished.
In the meanwhile, he directed the Noble Adoni-
ratn to furnish a plan for a superb tomb or obelisk,
of white and black marble, which plan was accepted
and tlie work finished in nine days. The tomb was
erected in the northwestern portion of the Temple.
The body was privately embalmed previous to its
final interment. The heart was also embalmed and
exposed to the view of the Brethren, in an urn, with
a sword pierced through it. The Brethren expressed
their veneration and love for H.\ A.-, by kneeling
before the urn.
After being thus exposed for nine days, it was de¬
posited in the tomb prepared for it, and over the en¬
trance a triangular stone, on which was engraved in
Hebrew letters i. \ •. 3. \ ; a sprig of acacia was
carved above the stone. King Solomon had all the
46
FIFTH DEGREE.
triangular medals or jewels taken from the Masters.
It was then the word was changed, as explained in
the third degree. The body of H.\ A.-, was buried
in the middle of a large chamber, with all the honors
due to one so great and so worthy. It was in this
hall or chamber that King Solomon often held his
Chapters and Lodge, and where he went to confer
with King Hiram of Tyre, on the secret mysteries.
Three days after the funeral ceremonies had been
performed, King Solomon repaired with his Court to
the Temple, and all the Brethren being arranged as
at the funeral, he proceeded with his Brethren to see
and examine the tomb and obelisk with the inscrip¬
tion thereon. Struck with astonishment and admir¬
ation, he raised his eyes and hands to heaven and
exclaimed : " It is accomplished and complete."
The urn was placed upon the top of the obelisk.
King Solomon selected Moabim, who was an intimate
friend of H.\ A.-., to go in search of the body. He
requested of Moabim three things : First, That he
should try and recover the jewel ; Second, That he
should find his Grand Master, and should bring him
dead or alive ; Third, That he should discover the
perpetrators of the horrid deed.
Moabim was a man of much note, and one of the
principal Intendants of King Solomon's buildings,
and Master of the Masters, and was held in high es¬
timation by the King and the Craft. Upon receiv
ing his instructions, in company with a number of
Brethren who were selected to accompany him, he
went first to the Temple, where, seeing the blood
that had been spilled in several places, they traced
it to a pit made near the north side of the Temple.
Moabim's first impression was, that his friend H.\
A,-, had been slain and his body thrown into the
pit. Thus prompted, he caused it to drained dry,
and descended into it; but found, not the body of
his friend, as he had expected, but his jewel, being
the same as that of the other Masters.
He then proceeded carefully in the search until he
stopped on a small hill between Lydia and Joppa.
PERFECT MASTER.
47
Here, Brother Stolkin found the body, as was de¬
scribed in the Master's degree, when it was taken up
to Jerusalem. The place of interment was known
only to Perfect Masters, as the strict laws of thn*
Jews forbade the interment of the dead within the
walls of the city.
The Hebrew letters i o n on the obelisk, are sup¬
posed to refer to the Ancient Grand Master's word,
and its substitute adopted by King Solomon, sup¬
posed to have been the first word spoken at the grave.
"Our builder is now no more."
1 is the initial of the true word ; » of the Master's
word, and 2, signifying Binah or Builder.
The cubic stone in the centre of the circles upon
your apron, represents the finite universe, the work
of God, who is further symbolized by the three cir¬
cles, referring to the great trinity of his attributes,
Wisdom, Power and Benevolence.
CLOSING.
Same as opening, informing the Captain of the Guard "that we
are about to " close, etc , down to
R. \ W. \ What is the hour %
G. \ l.\ The close of day.
M. \ W. ■. It is time to close this Lodge.
oooo
Brother Zabud, give notice that I am about to close
this Lodge of Perfect Masters.
G. •. 1. \ The Right Worshipful Master is about to
close this Lodge of Perfect Masters.
All oooo with their hands, and give #.*. of Perfect Master, Se¬
cret Master, Master Mason, Fellow Craft, and Entered Apprentice.
48 FIFTH DEGREE.
R. \ W.\ I declare this Lodge of Perfect Masters
duly closed. Brother Captain of the Guard, inform
the Guards.
o
SIXTH DEGREE.
INTIMATE SECRETARY.
HISTORY.
The legend of this degree relates to an incident
which occurred in King Solomon's audience chamber,
upon the supposition of the King of Tyre that a spy
or eaves dropper had been stationed to watch his
movements at the time of his complaint that the King
of Israel had violated his promise. The life of the
supposed spy was demanded, but saved by the inter¬
cession of King Solomon, and his zeal and trustworth¬
iness, upon examination, rewarded by his becoming
the witness to a new compact.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, ETC.
The Lodge room represents the audience chamber of King Solo¬
mon's Temple; it is hung with black, strewed with silver tears. It
has twenty-seven lights—nine towards the East, nine towards the
West, and nine towards the South. Upon the table, east of the cen¬
ter of the chamber, are two cross-swords, an hour-glass, a large
scroll with seals, a skull, book of the testimony, and book of the
Constitutions.
King Solomon and Hiram, King of Tyre, are styled Thrice Illus¬
trious, and are seated near the East, by the table; the only other
officer—the Captain of the Guard—representing Zerbal, is stationed
in the West. The two kings are robed as in the Degree of Perfec¬
tion. The brethren are termed Perfect Masters, and during a re¬
ception are stationed without the chamber as guards, with drawn
swords, under the charge of Zerbal.
4
5 0
SIXTH DEGKEE.
Apron:—Triangular, of white lambskin, lined, bordered and
trimmed with bright crimson; on the flap is an equi-lateral triangle;
in the angle of the apex, the letter B (3), and in the one on the left,
N (2); in the right, Sh. (C*); on the center of the area oi the apron,
Ih.(rr).
Collar:—White, bordered and trimmed with crimson, suspended
from which is the
Jewel:—A golden triangle, similar to that mentioned on the flap
of the apron.
Gloves:—White, bordered with crimson.
Battery:—o o o o o o o o—o, thrice repeated.
OPENING.
T.\ I.-, o Brother Captain of the Guard, are all
present Intimate Secretaries '?
C.'. of G.\ [Examines.] Thrice Illustrious, all pres¬
ent are Intimate Secretaries.
T.-.I.-. Your station?
C.\ of G.\ In the ante-chamber, at the head of
tiie Guard.
T. \ /. \ How are we guarded ?
C. \ of G.\ By Pe rfect Masters.
T.-. I. -. What lessons are we taught as Intimate
Secretaries %
C.\ of G. -. That idle curiosity should not remain
unpunished, or zeal and fidelity unrewarded.
T. •. I.'. Give notice, my Brother, that I am about
t« declare this Lodge of Intimate Secretaries open.
INTIMATE SECRETARY.
51
C.\ of Cr.\ o o o Brethren, the Thrice Illustrious
Is about to declare this Lodge of Intimate Secretaries
open. Give your attention and assistance to the
work.
T. \ /. \ Together, my Brethren.
The Thrice Illustrious gives ,|| ,ja. All . ||. N.\
T. \ I.\ To the glory of the Grand Architect of
the Universe, in the name and under the auspices of
the United Supreme Council, and by virtue of the au¬
thority on me conferred, I declare this Lodge of In¬
timate Secretaries open for the transaction of busi¬
ness.
o
RECEPTION.
At a reception of a Candidate the Thrice Illustrious o, and says:
T. •. I.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, I appoint
Joahert Lieutenant of the Guard, to aid you in the
execution of your duty ; repair to your station, and
see that none approach without my permission.
Captain of the Guard o o o and all rise. Under the direction of
the Captain of the Guard, the Biethren form two parallel lines in
the West; fall on the right knee, give the second and say the S.\
V.'. in a low tone; they then rise, and as they retire salute the two
Kings with the first #.
The Candidate is divested of his robe, gloves, apron and jewel
<is a Perfect Master, and is introduced into the ante-room where he
finds the members acting as Guards to the Lodge. The Captain of
the Guard appoints him Lieutenant, and instructs him that the
•Guard is composed of Secret Masters; places him very near the door,
and commences preparing him and arming him as his Lieutenant.
Presently King Hiram rushes through the Guards, in an excited
manner, and enters the Lodge, apparently in a great passion, leav¬
ing the door partly open.
C.\ of G.\ [To Candidate.] That was very abrupt.
Are you not alarmed for the safety of King Solomon?
52
SIXTH DEGREE.
The countenance of him who passed us exhibited
such evidence of anger, that he may meditate some
violence to the person of our most illustrious master ;
go you to the door and listen.
The Candidate is placed in the doorway; meanwhile King Hiram
rushes up to King Solomon, and exclaims:
K.'. of T. \ Adoniram hath shown me twenty cities
in the land of Galilee ; are they those thou hast
given me ?
K.'. S.-. They are, my Brother.
K.\ of T.'. Then call me not Brother; they are-
not such as thou hast promised me. Thou hast not
kej>t rhy faith. My servants did cut thee down as
many trees out of Libanus as thou didst want, and
conveyed them on rafts by sea to Joppa ; cedars and
fir-trees, and pine trees from Libanus ; providing
timbers in abundance for the houses which thou didst
desire to build ; and I sent thee Hiram, my dear
Brother, a wise and skillful man, to devise the work
for thy house. He hath lost his life in thy service.
Then was there peace between us, and we made a
league together, notwithstanding my God was not
thy God—because we were Brothers in the Sacred
Mysteries—and thou didst promise to give me twenty
cities for the services rendered thee.
Kr. 8.-. My Brother, even as I promised, so have
I done. Did I not give thee twenty cities in the land
of Galilee ? How have I not kept my faith with thee %
K.\ of T.\ Solomon, God—even thy God—hath
given thee wisdom and understanding exceeding
much. Thou art wiser than all men, and thy renown
hath gone unto all the nations around about. Thou
hast spoken three thousand parables, and thy poems
are a thousand and five. Thou hast written about
trees, from the cedars of Lebanon unto the hyssop
INTIMATE SECRETARY.
58
that growetli out of the wall; of beasts, of birds, of
reptiles, and of fishes ; and all the nations and all
the kingdoms of the earth have heard of thy wisdom,
and have come to consult thee and hear thy wise
words ; and yet thou art not wise enough to know
that cunning is not wisdom. Ah, king ! he is not
wise who is not honest, or who doth not keep his
word in spirit as well as in letter. Are not all Per¬
fect Masters taught to let their affirmation or denial
be the understanding of their contractor?
K.\ S.\ How, my Brother, have I failed to keep
my word in spirit as well as in letter? How hath
the measure of my affirmation or denial not been your
understanding of my promise?
K.\ of T.\ Thou didst promise me twenty cities.
I looked not to receive so many ruined and deserted
villages, surrounded bjr wildernesses, but twenty
populous and nourishing places, bordered by smil¬
ing fields and fruitful meadows. Those cities thou
hast given me are Chabul, and shall be called so from
this day henceforth—dilapidated and worthless—fit
to entail expense and yield no revenue. Retain
them, and henceforth let the league between us cease.
K. \ •. Be pacified, and hear me patiently, my
Brother. It was my intention
King of Tyre turns around and sees the Candidate; rushes to the
door and seizes him.
K. \ of T.-. Ha! another evidence of your traitor¬
ous conduct—a listener ! Since when are spies set
at the entrance to note my words ?
K.\ S.-. Never ! It cannot be, as my guards are
at the door.
King of Tyre drags Candidate in before King Solomon.
54
STXTII DEGREE.
K.\ of T.-. So, then, none listen ? Behold tlie-
eavesdropper, taken in the very act. Who is he ?
K.-. S.\ Alas! it is Joabert, until now my faith¬
ful friend and servant.
King of Tyre seizing a sword from the table and drawing back
as if to cut the Candidate from the left shoulder to the right hip.
K.\ of T.\ Let 111 in suffer the punishment his
baseness deserves.
King Solomon lays his hand on Hiram's sword-arm and stays the
act, saying:
K. •. S.\ For a moment stay thy hand, my Brother.
Jehovah hath said, "Thou slialt not kill, for whoso
sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be
shed ; f<~>r in the image of God was man created."
Guards, without there !
Guards hastily enter.
Thou sliouldst not dishonor thyself, my Brother,
by becoming the executioner. Let Joabert be tried
and heard in his defence, and if condemned, he shall
be duly punished. His offence is no less against me
than thee, if he be guilty. Captain of the Guard,
Joabert is your prisoner. Fetter him, and I hold
your life responsible if he is not forthcoming when
called for.
Joabert is pinioned, and the Guards depart with the prisoner in?
the center; the door is left ajar, so that the continued conversation,
between the two kings may be heard.
It was my intention, my Brother, to rebuild the
twenty cities which I gave thee, and to settle hus¬
bandmen in the country round about before I gave
the territory into thy possession ; but thou hast come-
to receive them sooner than I expected. What I in¬
tended, I will still do, and keep my promise, in the-
intimate secretary.
55
spirit as well as in tlie letter. Good faith is the
brightest jewel in a regal crown. I will break my
word with no man, least of all with thee.
If.-, of T.-. Forgive me for my hasty words and
my unjust suspicions.
K.-. S.-. They are foregiven and forgotton. Is
there no one we can forgive \
J\.\ of T. •. Joabert?
K. o. •. Even so. I regret that my favorite should
have been detected in the act of eavesdropping, or
listening ;it the door, while we were engaged in a
private conversation. I can vouch that, among all
my favorites and lords of my court, Joabert has al¬
ways evinced the warmest attachment to my person.
For this, .Hid that there is some palliating circum¬
stance, I will be a guarantee, and offer myself for a
surety.
K.\ of T.-. He shall be tried ; I accept your sure¬
ty ; and if, upon trial, his innocence is proven, let
him be the witness of a new treaty of alliance be¬
tween us.
Kin«; Solomon o o o; Captain of the Guard enters.
K. -. S.\ Captain of the Guard, let Joabert be
brought before us.
Captain of the Guard gives first #, retires, and brings in the Can¬
didate; the Guard follow in order, and are stationed in front of the
West.
K. \ S. \ Joabert, you have received many and fre¬
quent favors at my hands, and I believed you de¬
voted to my service. You have been found acting
the dishonorable part of an eavesdropper, hateful to
all Masons ; your conduct, unexplained, is repre-
50
SIXTH DEGREE.
liensible. My Brother of Tyre, .justly indignant,
was about to inflict upon you exemplary punishment.
I can scarcely believe that baseness and impertinent
curiosity could have actuated you, and, at my inter¬
cession, he has consented to hear you in your defence,
and to forgive you if there be anything that can ex¬
cuse or explain your conduct.
(J.-, of G.\ Thrice Illustrious Kings Solomon and.
Hiram, by your permission, I can bear witness that
Joabert's conduct was not induced by a vain carios¬
ity to prv into secrets, or an unlawful desire to ob¬
tain the knowledge of things forbidden. The hasty
and angry manner in which your worthy ally—whom
he knew not personally—'passed the Guard, excited
the alarm of Joabert, who approached the door and,
out of devotion to you, deemed it his dntv to ascer¬
tain the cause of this unusual conduct of His Majes¬
ty of Tyre.
AY. S.\ Brother Zerbal, I am well satisfied. I
have assured my worthy ally, that, among all the
favorites and lords of my court, Joabert lias always
evinced the warmest attachment to my person ; that
I knew him sufficiently well to be convinced that the
indiscretion of which he has been guilty is not at¬
tributable to a desire of gratifying idle curiosity, but
to watch over my safety and interests. So well as¬
sured was I of this, that I voluntarily offered my¬
self a surety for the purity of his intentions, which
surety was graciously accepted by my regal Brother.
AY. of T. Yes, mv Brother, and I honor Joabert
for his fidelity and attachment. I gladly acquit him
of any intention other than zealous faithfulness.
Your friendship, and that of those you govern, I
would gladly cultivate ; and in accordance with our
promise, let the new treaty of alliance be drawn, and
Joabert be admitted as our Intimate or Confidential
Secretary and Witness, in lieu of our lost friend,
Hiram Abi, whom we now so deeply mourn.
INTIMATE SECRETARY.
57
K.\ 8.-. He is competent and faithful; I gladly
accept of him. Joabert. to you will be confided the
knowledge of those important transactions growing
out of our new alliance. Do you feel that you can
observe inviolable secrecy as to all matters so con¬
fided to you \
Cand. I do.
K.\ Sr . Kneel, then, at this table, and placing
botli hands upon the Book of the Law and the cross-
swords, pronounce your name, and say after me your
OBLIGATION.
I, , do solemnly swear and declare, in the
presence of the Grand Architect of the Universe, that
1 will never reveal, but will ever hail and forever
conceal, what is at present communicated to me, ex¬
cept to them who are lawfully qualified to receive
the same ;
That T will inviolably keep the mysteries of the
degree of Intimate Secretary from all Perfect Mas¬
ters, and from all Brothers of an inferior degree, and
from all persons in the known world except those
qualified to receive the same ;
That I will attend all summonses sent to me from
the Lodge to which I may belong, and conform to
the laws and regulations of the same to the utmost
of my power, and that I will always bear witness
and administer to the truth ;
That 1 will be ever zealous and faithful in the ser¬
vices of Masonry, the Master, and my brethren ;
That I will at all times endeavor to heal ail dis¬
sensions and differences, settle ail disputes, and re¬
concile all quarrels among my brethren, upon terms
honorable and just to every party concerned ;
If I fail intentionally in this my obligation, may
my body be cut diagonally in twain. So help me,
God. Amen! Amen!
58
SIXTH DEGREE.
Salute the holy and sacred volume, my Brother,
and arise. I greet and receive you as an Intimate
or confidential Secretary, and devote you to the ser¬
vice of Masonry and of the Grand Architect of the
Universe'. We are all witnesses to this new alliance.
Again have you assumed the place and position of
our lamented Grand Master Hiram Abi, and so be¬
come still more strongly bound to practice the vir¬
tues by which he was so eminently distinguished.
My Brother, I will now instruct you in the sign,
grip, word, etc., of this degree.
-v.*. Bring .J], .f. shoulder, and then diagonally down¬
wards 4. hip.
N." Cross ,||. . IV. . [. with . ||. thumbs extended, and raise them
.\l9. height of -11 - forehead, J|. thumbs touch it, then bring them down
rapidly . hilt of .)|. sword, raising .]|. to heaven.
ISFV. Take each other in the ordinary manner by ,|j. 4- • I - and
turn . ||. . 1^. over .II. times, saying alternately at . |j. several turns
htireb reden htomelehs.
P.". V.\ t r e b a o j.'. L a b r e z.\
S.\ V.-. a v o v.*. or h a v a v.'.
INVESTITURE.
I will now proceed to invest you with the insignia
of this degree. The color of your ribbon and apron
are intended to remind you of the blood of our Grand
Master Hiram Abi, the last drop of which he was
ready to shed sooner than prove a traitor to his trust.
May you be equally faithful to your engagement,
but now contracted.
Your jewel—a solid triangle—is emblematical of
law and justice, truth ana peace, without which no
compact can exist ; also of the wisdom, strength and
beauty which should characterize all alliances ; and
of the three virtues, Faith, Hope and Charity, or
Love ; of the mystery contained in Berllh, Nadiry
INTIMATE SECRETARY.
59
and $'helemoth—hence the letters A. P. P., respec¬
tively, in the three angles, being the initials of Al¬
liance, Promise, and Perfection. It is also said to
be emblematical of those Masons who were present
at the opening of the first Lodge of Intimate Secre¬
taries—King Solomon, Hiram King of Tyre, and Joa-
bert, whom you have represented. It has many al¬
lusions, which a knowledge of our Cabala will make
you acquainted with.
I also present von with a sword of defence against
any attacks which, may be made on your integrity
and honor as a Mason. As a Confidential Secretary,
you are intrusted with an especial confidence, and as
a full proof of it, we accept you as our intimate Sec¬
retary and a witness to our new alliance.
The room with black hangings, strewed with tears,
represents Kin«' Solomon's Hall of Audience, to which
he was wont to retire to lament the unhappy fate of
Hiram Abi. It was in this chamber that King Hiram
found him wThen he came to visit him on the occasion
represented at your initiation in this degree. The
tears are emblematical of the repentance of Joabert
in this chamber, and the grief of Solomon and all
true Craftsmen of his day for the loss of Hiram Abi.
You will now go to the Grand Orator and learn
the history of this degree.
Captain of the Guard conducts the Candidate to the Grand Ora¬
tor.
HISTORY.
(jr. •. 0. •. Solomon, in consequence of the treaty es¬
tablished between his ambassadors and Hiram King
of Tyre, solemnly covenanted to furnish a certain
number of measures of oil, honey and wheat, besides
the grant of twenty cities, in lieu of the timbers hewn
in the forests of Libanus for the building of the Tem¬
ple, as well as for the stone hewn in the quarries of
Tyre. King Hiram went to see the cities so assigned
to him, and had the mortification to find them a
60
SIXTH DEGREE.
barren and sandy soil, almost depopulated, and the
inhabitants of a rude and uncultivated class—the
cities greatly fallen to decay—and that the province
in that condition was likely to be a burden rather
than an advantage to his treasury. He determined
to go in person to Jerusalem and expostulate with
Solomon on his breaking the spirit of his promise—
while, in truth, it was the intention of King Solo¬
mon, before putting the King of Tyre in possession,
to rebuild and adorn the cities, and to change the
inhospitable land into cultivated gardens, fields and
meadows.
Arriving at Jerusalem, King Hiram entered the
palace and, without waiting to be announced, went
through the court, and angrily passed the guard, in¬
to the audience chamber, where he found King Sol¬
omon alone, mourning over the death of Hiram Abi.
Joabert, the favorite of King Solomon, newly ap¬
pointed Lieutenant of the Guard—who were all com¬
posed of Perfect Masters—seeing King Hiram enter
in such excitement and rage, and not knowing him
personally, feared that he intended some violence,
and approached the door of the audience chamber,
to be ready to rush in and defend his master, if there
should be occasion. His zeal and devotion causing
him to neglect the precaution which merely curiosity
wouid have observed, he was seen by King Hiram,
seized upon by him, and dragged into the hall, where
he would have been at once slain by the enraged
king, but for the interference of his own sovereign,
who immediately called the guard, and ordered them
to seize the guilty man and be answerable for his
appearance when wanted.
The guards being sent away, King Solomon ex¬
plained to Hiram that he had intended to rebuild
the twenty cities and to furnish the fields with hus¬
bandmen before giving them to him. He also as¬
sured the king that, of all the favorites and lords of
his court, Joabert had always evinced the warmest
attachment to his person, and he knew him suffi¬
ciently well to be convinced that the indiscretion he
I NTIM A T E b EC 11 ETA IIY.
01
had been guilty of was not attributable to the desire
to gratify any idle curiosity, but to watch over his
safety and interests. He therefore entreated the
king to recall the sentence he would pronounce
against him.
Tiie King of Tyre, knowing how gratifying it would
be to King Solomon that his favorite should be par¬
doned, and convinced by the statement of the Cap¬
tain of the Guard, readily assented, and the two
kings renewed their alliance, which was to be per¬
petual, with mutual promises of fidelity ; to which
treaty, .Joabert was selected as the witness or Confi¬
dential Secretary—which position had theretofore
been filled by the lamented Hiram Abi.
This, my Brother, is what is represented to you in
the reception of this degree, in which you are taught
to be zealous and faithful—to be disinterested and
benevolent—to act the peacemaker in ease of dissen¬
sions, disputes, ami quarrels among your brethren —
and to beware of eavesdropping.
You may now, my Brother, be seated, as an Inti
mate Secretary.
CLOSING.
T. •. 7. • o Captain of the Guard, what is the hour?
C.\ of G. ■. Thrice Illustrious, it is the sixth hour
of the day.
T.-. /.*. It is, then, time to rest from our labors.
Brother Captain of the Guard, give notice that I am
about to close this Lodge of Intimate Secretaries.
C. \ ofGr. o o o Guards attend ! The Thrice Il¬
lustrious desires me to give notice that he is about to
close this Lodge of Intimate Secretaries in due form.
T.\ I.-. Brethren, let us all be zealous, faithful,
and benevolent, and evermore may peace and har¬
mony prevail among us. Together, my brethren :
62
SIXTH DEGREE
First "-v
Captain of the Guard o o o o o o o o—o
King of Tyre o o o o o o o o—o
King Solomon o o o o o o o o—o
To I lie glory of the Grand Architect of the Uni¬
verse, in the name and under the auspices of the
United Supreme Council, and by virtue of the au¬
thority on me conferred, I do hereby declare this
Lodge of Intimate Secretaries closed. Brother Cap¬
tain of the Guard, inform the guard.
C.\ of G.'. Guards, by order of the Thrice Illus¬
trious, this Lodge of Intimate Secretaries is closed.
o
SEVENTH DEGREE.
PROVOST AND JUDGE.
HISTORY.
King Solomon, upon the death of the Grand Mas¬
ter Hiram, found it necessary to appoint several
Judges, in order that justice might be administered
among the workmen upon the temple, their com¬
plaints heard, and thnir disputes decided. This duty
had devolved upon the lamented Hiram, and his loss
caused the appointment of Tito and his associates,
to listen to and adjust the complaints of the work¬
men.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
The apartment represents the middle chamber of King Solomon's
Temple, where the records were kept ; it is draped with red, and
in the East is a blue canopy representing the sky, which is embel¬
lished with stars.
Under the center of the canopy is suspended an ebony box, orna¬
mented with jewels, which contains the records of the tribunal of
Provosts and Judges.
In the middle of the chamber hangs an equilateral triangle, in the
center of which is ,T ; under the triangle is hung an equal balance.
The Lodge-room is lighnd by (h e lights—one in each corner and
one in llu- ri mer oi liie cliainlu-r.
Tli: i< f lliu- .1 iotis—'TpirM nts bulge Tito, Prince of the Herodim,
the oid ,1 1)1 llu- I'lov ..Si-, ami J I'tlg'--;, ami is d in i!u- Last.
64 SEVENTH DEGREE.
Senior Warden—represents Adoniram, in the West.
Junior Warden—represents Abda, father of Adoniram, and is also
seated in the West.
Orator—represents Josaphat, son of Ahilud, in the South.
Master of Ceremonies—in the North.
Captain of the Guard—in the Norih.
Sentinel—at the entrance.
The seven officers should be in white robes, and all the other
brethren in black robes.
Apron—Triangular; white, edged with red ; in the middle of the
area a pocket, surrounded by five white and red rosettes ; on the
flap is painted or embroidered a key.
Collar—red, from which is suspended the
Jewel—A golden key.
Battery—o o o o—o.
OPENING.
T. \ I.-, (o) Brother Captain of the Guard, your
station %
C. \ of G. \ In the North, at the head of the guard.
T. \ I. •. Your duty ?
C.\ of G.\ To station the Sentinel, and see that
the Lodge is secure.
T.\ l.\ Attend to your duty, and ascertain that
all present are Provosts and Judges.
C.\ of G.\ All present are Provosts and Judges,
and we are secure.
PROVOST AND JUDGE.
65
T. *. 1. •. Brother Adoniram, where is your Master ?
8.-. W.\ Thrice Illustrious, everywhere.
T.\ I.\ Why so, my Brother?
8. •. TF. •. To supervise the workmen and render
justice to every one.
T. •. I. *. What is the hour ?
£. \ IF. \ Break of day—eight, two, and seven.
T.\ 1. \ Why so, my Brother?
8. •. W.\ Because Provosts and Judges, at all
times and seasons, oversee the works, and should be
ready to render justice to all.
T. •. I. \ Brother Adoniram, as it is break of day—
eight, two and seven—it is time to open a Lodge of
Provosts and Judges. Give notice to the brethren.
8.-. W. \ (o o o) Brethren, the Thrice Illustrious
Master is about; to open a Lodge of Provosts and
Judges. Give your attention and assistance to the
work.
T. \ I.-. Together, my brethren:
* * * * 0 0 o 0_0
To the glory of the Grand Architect of the Uni¬
verse, in the name and under the auspices of the
United Supreme Council, and by virtue of the au¬
thority on me conferred, I hereby declare a Lodge
of Provosts and Judges open for the dispatch of
business. Brother Captain of the Guard, inform the
Sentinel.
5
66
SEVENTH DEGREE.
C. \ of O.-. Brother Sentinel, a Lodge of Provosts
and Judges is now open for the dispatch of business ;
you will take due notice thereof, and lyle accord¬
ingly. (o)
RECEPTION.
The candidate is prepared as an Intimate Secretary, and is accom¬
panied by the Master of Ceremonies, who o o o o—o ; Junior War¬
den, within, o o o o—o ; Senior Warden, o o o o—o ; and Thrice
Illustrious, o o o o—o.
C.-.ofO.'. Illustrious Brother Senior Warden,
there is an alarm at the inner door of this chamber.
Senior Warden repeats to Thrice Illustrious.
T.\ I. -. Brother Senior Warden, ascertain who
knocks as a Provost and Judge.
Senior Warden repeats to Captain of Guard. Captain of Guard
o o o o—o on the inside door, and opening the same partly, says :
C. \ of G.'. Who knocks at the inner door of this
chamber ?
Mr. of C.\ Brother Joabert, an Intimate Secre¬
tary, wishes to attain the degree of Provost and
Judge.
The door being closed.
O.-.ofO.'. Illustrious Brother Senior Warden,
Brother Joabert, an Intimate Secretary, wishes to
attain the degree of Provost and Judge.
Senior Warden repeats to Thrice Illustrious.
T.\ I.-. Let Brother Joabert be examined by the
Master of Ceremonies as to his proficiency in the
preceding degrees, and if found worthy, let him be
admitted.
Senior Warden repeats to Captain of Guard. Captain of Guard
repeats to Master of Ceremonies.
PROVOST AND JUDGED
67
M. \ of (J.\ I have examined the Brother, and find
him worthy.
C.\ of G.\ Then let him enter, and approach the
altar.
Master of Ceremonies and candidate slowly enter, as directed ;
as they enter, a portion or the whole of the following hymn will be
sung:
HYMN.
Blest is the man who walks upright,
Whom righteousness directs,
Whose generous tongue disdains to speak
The thing his heart rejects.
Who never did a slander forge,
His neighbor's fame to wound,
Nor hearken to a false report
By malice whispered round.
Who, Vice, in all its pomp and power,
Can treat with just neglect,
And Piety, though clothed in rags,
Religiously respect.
Whose soul in wickedness disdains
His powers to employ,
Whom no rewards can ever bribe
The guiltless to destroy.
T.m. \ For what purpose does this Perfect Mas¬
ter and Intimate Secretary desire to advance further
in Masonry ?
Mr. of C.\ That he may be better qualified to do
good and live as becomes a Mason.
68
SEVENTH DEGREE.
T.\ I. \ Let Mm who desires to advance in Ma¬
sonry first kneel, bending his knee and bowing his
head to the God that made and that preserves
him.
The two Wardens step briskly, one to each side of the candidate.
The Senior Warden piaces his sword-blade upon the Brother's left
shoulder, so that the edge is across the Brother's neck.
S. \W. \ My Brother, in this degree you are re¬
ceived upon the edge of the Sword of Justice. Your
desire will be, as a Provost and Judge, to grasp its
hilt. See that you do not, by violating the moral
law expose yourself to be smitten with its edge.
31. \ of C.m. Civi—(Command.)
T.\ /.*. Kami—(Arise.)
The Senior Warden removes the sword, and the candidate arises.
The two wardens resume their places.
T.\ I.-. Brother Master of Ceremonies, let the
candidate be conducted seven times around the body
of the Lodge, that he may receive instruction and
be examined as to Ms proficiency in the signs of the
preceding degrees.
Master of Ceremonies conducts the candidate seven times around
the Lodge, who, after each circuit, makes a sign of one of the pre¬
ceding degrees, commencing with that of Entered Apprentice, dur¬
ing which is read the following
LESSON.
T.\ I.\ To render justice and judgment, is more
acceptable to the Lord than a sacrifice. Ye shall
m«t fear the face of man, for the judgment is God's.
PROVOST AND JUDGE.
69
8.- W.\ Thou shalt provide out of all the people
able men, such as fear God : men of truth and haters
of injustice, and set them to judge the people at all
seasons.
J.-.W.-. Open thy mouth and judge righteously,
for he that followeth after righteousness and mercy
findeth life, happiness, and honor.
T.\ I.-. Hear the causes between your brethren,
and judge righteously between man and man, and
between the citizen and the stranger. Ye shall not
respect persons in judgment, but shall listen to the
humble as well as to the great.
8. \ W. \ See that ye judge not falsely, nor slay
the innocent and the righteous ; and take no gift,
for a gift blindeth the wise and perverteth the words
of the righteous. Blessed are the peace-makers, for
they shall see the Lord.
J.-.W.-. You shall have one manner of law, as
well for the stranger as for one of your own country.
One ordinance shall be for you and the stranger that
sojourneth with you ; one law and one custom shall
be adjudged for all.
T.-. I.-. Love justice, you that are the judges of
the earth. Justice is perpetual and immortal. Op¬
press not the poor just man, but spare the widow,
and honor the ancient gray hairs of the aged. Let
not your strength be the law of justice, nor hold that
which is feeble to be nothing worth.
As the candidate is stationed before the altar, the Senior War¬
den approaches with an equal balance, saying :
8.-. W.'. Let this, my Brother, symbolize that bal¬
ance which must ever govern your decisions. Let
70
SEVENTH DEGREE.
justice be ever meted out by you—yet let it be tem¬
pered with mercy—for as ye judge, so shall ye be
judged.
T.\ T.\ My Brother, it is your desire to become
a Provost and Judge ; are you aware that lie who
would assume that character aud would judge and
decide between his brethren, must himself be a just
and upright man I impartial, cautious, merciful ? of
pure morals and blameless life and conversation?
and that he must, first of all, give judgment against
his own faults.
Co/iid. I am.
T.\ I.-. My Brother, he who would assume the
character of Judge is guilty of a great offence if he
does not fully inform himself of the laws and that
jurisprudence which he is called on to construe, to
apply, to administer, and to enforce—nay, he who
ignores his own offences or errors, and punishes the
same offences or errors in another, is a false judge
and a disloyal Mason.
«/.\TF. \ Let the unjust judge tremble, for God
will smite him with the sharp sword of his wrath.
Let the unqualified, who usurps the seat of judg¬
ment, remember the fate of those who laid their un¬
holy hands upon the ark, and were smitten with
God's anger for their presumption.
T. •. I. -. My Brother, hear and consider. Thus
warned, do you still desire to proceed ?
Cand. I do.
T. •. I.\ Having full confidence, mj^ Brother, in
your zeal and devotion, I with pleasure receive you
as a Provost and Judge over the workmen of the
Temple. It gives me joy, my Brother, thus to re-
PROVOST AND JUDGE.
71
cornpense your zeal and attachment to the institution
of Masonry. Well assured of your prudence and
discretion, we, without hesitation, intrust you with
our mosi important secrets ; and we doubt not that
you will discharge all your duties in this degree as
you have done in those you have already taken.
Yon have now a twofold duty to perform—as a
Judge, to decide all matters of difference that may
arise among your brethren, and as a Provost, to rule
over the workmen of the Temple. Be just, impar¬
tial, and merciful.
I shall intrust you with this Key of the place
where is kept the heart of our lamented Grand Mas¬
ter Hiram Abi. You must first assure us you will
never disclose the place where it is interred, and
kneel and pronounce to me this, your obligation.
The candidate kneels on both knees, with his hands upon the roll
of parchment that represents the Koly Bible, while the Senior War¬
den lays the blade of a naked sword upon his head.
OBLIGATION.
5 do promise and swear, in the presence
of the Great Architect of the Universe, and these Il¬
lustrious Brothers here present, never to reveal any
matter or thing which concerns the Provosts and
Judges, directly or indirectly, to any person whom¬
soever, below this degree.
That I will be just and equitable to all the world,
as I am constituted by this Lodge to render justice.
That 1 will, as far as possible, endeavor to com¬
promise any difficulties which may exist between
my brethren.
That 1 will pay just and due obedience to all de¬
crees, mandates, and commands of the United Su¬
preme Council ; and the by-laws, rules, and regula¬
tions of this or any other Lodge of Provosts and
Judges, of which I may become a member ; and that
I will regulate myself conformably to them in all
respects.
72
SEVENTH DEGREE.
To all this I promise and swear, under tbe penalty,
if I willfully fail, of having my nose smitten from
my face, as the punishment of an unjust Judge. So
God maintain me in equity and justice. Amen !
Salute the Holy Book thrice.
T. \ /.*. Arise, my Brother, in your twofold capa¬
city : to decide as a Judge all matters of difference
that my arise with your Brothers, and as a Provost
to rule over the workmen of God's holy Temple.
Gives the Brother a stroke with the sceptre on each shoulder.
By the power given me, and with which I am in¬
vested, I constitute you Provost and Judge. Arise.
My Brother, I will now put you in possession of
the sign, grip, word, etc., of this degree :
#.*. Place .||. index and middle .f. of .||. 4- • I- 4- side of .|.
nose.
N.\ Place .||. index .f. of.||. .%. . [_. .*[. nose, .||. thumb under
chin, thus forming a square.
JSFV. Interlace .||. fingers of .|. with .||. palms upwards,
and tap each other mutually .5". times by .H. .H. .0. with .||. thumb
in .||. palm of.||. . .
P.". V.'. OTIT.'.
S.'. V.-. h a n i k E H s.\ or in french ianihcaj.'.
O.'.V.'. ivik/. m u k.\ nik lots.-. ho khan as.-.
hiahkarz i.'.
INVESTITURE.
I now invest you with the Apron, Collar, and Jewel
of this degree. I decorate you in this quality with
this golden key, suspended to a red collar.
PEOVOST AND JUDGE.
73
Your Apron is white, bordered with red, as an em¬
blem of the ardor and zeal of the Masters ; the white
rosettes are symbolical of the candor and purity of
our lamented Master, Hiram ; and the red, of his
blood shed to preserve our secrets ; the pocket in the
middle of the area is intended for the key of the box
wherein is contained the plans and records of the
Tribunal, which key is represented to you by that
on the flap. It teaches you to lock carefully up 111
your heart the secrets of Masonry, and to keep the
key ever in your own possession ; and it is especially
emblematical of that justice and uprightness that
alone can unlock to you the mysteries contained in
the higher degrees, and enable you to advance to¬
ward perfection. The golden key also opens an urn
of .gold, which was placed over the sarcophagus
erected as a monument to the memory of our Grand
Master Hiram. In this urn is placed his heart, em¬
balmed.
The Lodge represents the middle chamber of King
Solomon's Temple.
The Triangle that hangs above your head is em¬
blematical, here as elsewhere in Masonry, of the
Diety—of his omnipotence and omniscience—and
hath his holy name in the center ; and it is also em¬
blematical of the three great requisites of a Judge—
possessed by Him in their perfection and infinitude
—Justice, Equity, and Impartiality. Let that em¬
blem and the balance be ever before your eyes, and
remind you of the obligation which you have taken
in this degree ; of the duties which devolve upon
yon ; of the responsiblities which rest upon you,
and which, with God's eye ever fixed on you, you
cannot evade or avoid.
You will now repair to the Orator for the history
of, and other instruction relating to, this degree.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate to the Grand
Orator.
74 SEVENTH DEGREE.
HISTORY.
Orator. It is said that King Solomon, after the
death of the Grand Master Hiram, in order that jus¬
tice might be administered among the workmen upon
the Temple, their complaints heard, and their dis¬
putes be decided, appointed seven Provosts and
Judges, to adjust their demands, listen to their com¬
plaints, and settle any disputes and differences that
might arise among them. He appointed Tito, Prince
of Herodim, to be the chief Provost and Judge;
Adoniram, and Abda, his father, and four others
learned in the law of Moses, to complete the number
and constitute the Tribunal. They held their sit¬
tings in the middle chamber of the Temple, wl^ere
the records of the Tribunal were kept, in a box of
ebony, studded with precious gems, the key of which
was committed to the Provosts or Judges ; and there
they considered and adjusted the demands and dif¬
ferences of the workmen, and determined all appeals
from the judgment of a single Provost and Judge—
administering the same laws to the Phoenician -as to
the Hebrew, and endeavoring to do entire justice ac¬
cording to the law of Moses between man and man.
Upon the occasion of the initiation of Joabert, he
was so struck with the general arrangement of the
middle chamber and the beauty of the system of the
Judges, that he involuntarily fell on his knees and
exclaimed, "Civi! "—meaning, "Command me!"
whereupon the king said, "Kami! " or "arise ! "
The necessity for a Court of Judges did not exist
until after the death of the Grand Master Hiram, as
the number of difficulties and dissensions among the
workmen were not so numerous, and judgment was
arrived at by the ready decisions of Hiram, which
all quietly acquiesced in.
As a Provost and Judge, it is your especial duty
to render justice to all—to hear patiently, remember
accurately, and weigh carefully the facts and the ar¬
gument offered. In our intercourse with others,
PROVOST AND JUDGE.
75
there are two kinds of injustice : the first, of those
who offer an injury ; the second, of those who have
it in their power to avert an injury from those to
whom it is offered, and yet do it not. So active injus¬
tice may be done in two ways—by force and by fraud.
Kespect not persons in judgment, but listen to the
humble as well as to the great. Fear God, for judg¬
ment is God's.
While you would administer justice, show mercy.
Exhibit the subduing influences of pity, the might
of love, the control of mildness, the commanding
majesty of that perfect character which mingles
grave displeasure with grief and pity for the offender.
So Brother Masons should treat their fellow Masons
who go astray—not with bitterness, nor yet with
good-natured easiness nor wholly indifference.
The human heart bows not willingly to what is in¬
firm or wrong in our nature. If it yields to us, it
rather yields to what is divine in us. The wickedness
of my neighbor will not submit to my wickedness.
Therefore deal faithfully, but patiently and tenderly,
with evil.
.Remember that it becomes not frail and sinful hu¬
manity to be vindictive towards even the worst of
criminals. Perhaps we owe it solely to a kind Prov¬
idence having kept from us those temptations under
which we, too. like them, would have fallen.
Finally, as a true Mason and Judge, always re¬
member the injunction: l'Thou shalt not respect
the person of the poor nor honor the person of the
mighty, but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy
neighbor."
Beware of injury to your neighbor. If you have
wronged another, you may grieve, repent, and reso¬
lutely determine against any such weakness in fu¬
ture ; you may, so far as it is possible, make repara¬
tion. This is well. The injured party may forgive
you, according to the meaning of human language,
but the deed is done, and all the powers of Nature,
were they to conspire in your behalf, could not make
it undone ; the consequences to the body, the conse-
76
SEVENTH DEGREE.
quences to the soul, though no man may perceive
them, are there—are written in the annals of the
past—and must reverberate throughout all time.
Repentance for a wrong done, bears, like every
other act, its own fruit—the fruit of purifying the
heart and amending the future : but not of effacing
the past.
Even the pulsations of the air, once set in motion
by the human voice, cease not to exist with the sounds
to which they gave rise ; their quickly attenuated
force soon becomes inaudible to human ears. But
the waves of air thus raised perambulate the surface
of earth and ocean, and in less than twenty hours
every atom of its atmosphere takes up the altered
movement, due to that infinitesimal portion of prim¬
itive movement which has been conveyed to it through
countless channels, and which must continue to in¬
fluence its path throughout its future existence.
The air is one vast library, on whose pages is for¬
ever written all that man has ever said or even whis¬
pered.
There, in their mutable but unerring characters,
mixed with the earliest as well as the latest signs of
immortality, stand, forever recorded, vows unre¬
deemed, promises unfulfilled. God reads that book,
though we cannot.
So earth, air and ocean are the eternal witnesses
of the acts that we have done. Every criminal is,
by the laws of the Almighty, irrevocably chained to
the testimony of his crime. No more fearful pun¬
ishment to a superior intelligence can be conceived
than to see still in action, with the consciousness
that it must continue in action forever, a cause of
wrong put in motion by itself ages before. There is
its perpetual, its inevitable punishment, which no
repentance can alleviate, and no mercy can remit.
Let us be just, also, in judging of other men's
motives.
No man need covet the office of Judge, for, in as¬
suming it, he assumes the most serious and oppres¬
sive responsibility.
PROVOST AND JUDGE.
77
On all accounts, therefore, let the true Mason never
forget the solemn injunction, necessary to be observed
at almost every moment of a busy life: "Judge not,
lest ye yourselves be judged, for whatsoever judg¬
ment ye measure unto others, the same shall in turn
be measured unto you."
The Master of Ceremonies seats the Brother.
CLOSING.
T.\ I.', (o) Brother Captain of the Guard, inforn
the Sentinel that I am about to close this Lodge of
Provosts and Judges.
The Captain of the Guard does so and reports:
C.\ of Or. It is done, Thrice Illustrious.
T.I.(o o o) Brother Adoniram, are you a Pro¬
vost and Judge ?
S. \ TP.*. I am, Thrice Illustrious ; I render justice
to all men.
T. •. 1. \ What lessor* are you taught aa a Provost
and Judge?
8.-. W.-. To exercise Justice, Equity, and Impar¬
tiality in my dealings with all men.
T.'. 1. *. What is the hour?
JS. *. W. \ The close of day.
T.1.'. It is, then, time to finish our work. Give
notice to the Brothers that I am about to close this
Lodge.
(o o o) Brethren, the Thrice Illustrious
Master is about to close this Lodge of Provosts and
Judges. Give your attention and assistance to the
work.
78
SEVENTH DEGREE.
T-. \ I.-. Together, my Brethren :
* * * * o o o o—o
To the glory of the Grand Architect of theUniverse,
in the name and under the auspices of the United
Supreme Council, and by virtue of the authority on
me conferred, I hereby declare this Lodge of Pro¬
vosts and Judges closed. Brother Captain of the
Guard, inform the Sentinel.
o
EIGHTH DEGREE.
INTENDANT OE THE BUILDING.
HISTORY.
The death of Hiram, the Chief Architect, threw
the workmen of the Temple of King Solomon into
great confusion, and for a time the construction of
the building was stayed, for the want of essential
plans and an expert director of the work. King Sol¬
omon, upon consultation, determined to appoint five
Superintendents—one for each of the live Depart¬
ments of Architecture—and under their supervision
the building progressed. The ceremony of installing
the superintendents is in this degree exhibited, in¬
structions given, and lessons of virtue inculcated.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
The apartment represents the middle chamber of King Solomon's
Temple, with various symbols of truth and wisdom displayed. The
hangings are crimson, with a blue canopy in the East, sprinkled
with stars.
The lights are twenty-seven in number, in groups of nine each—
each group forming a triple triangle.
The altar is immediately in front of the Master, on which are five
other lights. Over the Master is suspended a blazing star, with five
points, and in its centre the Hebrew letter J (l), thrice repeated;
this star is surrounded by the triple interlaced triangle.
The Lodge consists of five members only, representing the five
Chief Architects, who were appointed temporarily in the place of
he place of lamented Grand Master Hiram.
80
EIGHTH DEGREE.
The Master sits in the East, is termed Thrice Puissant, and rep¬
resents Adoniram, the son of Abda, President of the Board of Arch¬
itects.
Senior Warden, in the West, represents Joabert, a Phoenician—
Chief Artificer in Brass.
Junior Warden, in the South, represents Stolkin, a Hebrew, Chief
Carpenter.
Master of Ceremonies, in the North, represents Selec, the Gible-
mite—Chief Stone Mason.
Captain of the Guard, in the North, represents Gareb, a Hebrew
—Chief Worker in Silver and Gold, and Engraver.
During a Reception, the Thrice Puissant represents King Solo¬
mon, and is robed and decorated as in Perfection; the Senior War¬
den represents Sadoc, the Priest, and is clothed in a white robe and
mitre ; the Junior Warden represents Ahishar, Governor of the
House, and wears a black robe and the collar and apron of the de¬
gree.
The brethren sit about the Lodge in the form of a triangle.
Apron:—Triangular in shape, white, lined with crimson and bor¬
dered with green; on the area is depicted a five-pointed star, with
the Hebrew J (l), thrice repeated, in the centre, and over that a bal¬
ance; on the flap is a triangle, with one of the following letters in
each angle: 3, X, 1, (the initials of the words Benk-hurim, Achar,
and Jakinah.)
Cordon or Order:—A broad crimson Sash, worn from the right
shoulder to the left hip; at the point is suspended the jewel by a
green ribbon.
Jewel:—A golden triangle, similar to^that described as on the flap
of the apron.
Steps:—Five grand steps, the heels to a square.
Age:—Three times nine—equal to twenty-seven.
Battery:—o o o o o
INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING.
81
OPENING.
T. •. P. -. (o) Brother Captain of the Guard, yonr
station and duty ?
C. \ of (J. -. In the North, and, as the chief of the
guards, to see that the Lodge is secure.
T.\ P.\ Attend to your duty, and inform the
Sentinel that I am about to open a Lodge of Inten-
dants of the Building.
Captain of the Guard instructs the Sentinel.
C.'. of G.\ Thrice Puissant, we are secure.
Thrice Puissant o o; Wardens rise.
T.\ P. \ Brother Joabert, are you an Intendant
of the Building ?
8.-. IF. \ I have made the five steps of exactitude;
I have penetrated into the innermost parts of the
Temple, and have seen the great light, in which is
the mysterious character i (J) thrice repeated.
T. ■. P.-. What lesson are you taught in this de¬
gree %
8.-. W.'. That we should apply ourselves with zeal
to whatsoever work may be required of us or allotted
to us to do in the Temple—ever remembering that
the Lord seeth.
T.\ P.-. Brother Stolkin, what is the hour?
J.-.W.-. Break of day.
T. •. P. *. If break of day, it is time for us to com¬
mence our labor ; for that purpose, I will open a
6
82
EIGHTH DEGREE.
Lodge of Intendants of the Building. Brother Joa-
bert, give due notice thereof, that the brethren may
govern themselves accordingly.
S. \ W.\ (o o o) Brethren, the Thrice Puissant is
about to open a Lodge of Intendants of the Building :
give your attention and assistance to the work.
T.-. P.-. Together, my brethren :
*****00ooo
To the glory of the Grand Architect of the Universe,
in the name and under the auspices of the United
Supreme Council, and by virtue of the authority on
me conferred, I do hereby declare a Lodge of Inten¬
dants of the Building open for work and instruction.
Brother Captain of the Guard, inform the Sentinel.
C. \ of 0.\ Brother Sentinel, a Lodge of Inten¬
dants of the Building is now open.
RECEPTION.
The Candidate, clothed as a Provost and Judge, is admitted within
the Lodge-room without ceremony, and seated with the members.
T.P.\ [Representing King Solomon.] Reverened Bro¬
ther Sadoc, counsel and advise with me. How shall
we repair the loss which we have sustained by the
murder of our worthy Grand Master Hiram ? You
know that to him was assigned the duty of decorat¬
ing the secret chamber, where our most sacred treas¬
ures are deposited—that sacred and most Holy Place,
where the Ark of God is to be kept, and his protec¬
tion and presence to be sought.
Scarcely had our most illustrious Brother set about
this most important task, when he was suddenly re¬
moved from us ; and upon no one has his mantle
fallen ; for he studied architecture in Babylon, in
Thebes, in Memphis, and in Tyre ; all that the build¬
ers in Phoenicia, Egypt, and Assyria, could teach,
INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING.
83
he knew. I am at loss how to provide for carrying
on the work of the Temple, which stands still.
Thrice Puissant King Solomon, cannot
our Brother, the King of Tyre, send another archi¬
tect to fill the place of our deceased Grand Master %
T.\ P. \ He has none such in his dominions, and
where shall we find one like unto him that we have
lost?
S.\ W.\ Thrice Puissant, I deeply sympathize with
you in the loss of our Grand Master, and am con¬
vinced of the difficulty of repairing it.
I have reflected much on this matter ; the only
remedy which in my opinion promises any success,
would be to select from the chief architects live of
the most worthy and expert, upon whom you may
confer the rank of Intendants of the Building, and
with their aid and skill complete the Secret Chamber
and other unfinished parts of the Temple.
You know how fond our lamented Grand Master
was of the society of the young, and how he delighted
to communicate to them the arts and sciences which
he had studied in the East and in Egypt. His chief
favorites were Adoniram, the son of Abda ; Joabert,
the noble Phoenician ; Stolkin, of the tribe of Ben
jamin ; Selec, the Giblemite ; and Gareb, of the tribe
of Naphthali—whom he was wont to term his school,
and whom he well instructed in the art of working
in brass, in wood, and in silver and gold.
He often spoke to me of these his scholars, say¬
ing, that, if he were taken away, they would be able
to fill his place ; he often intrusted to Adoniram the
superintendence of the whole work, and made Joa¬
bert the chief artificer in brass ; Stolkin, chief of the
workers in wood ; Selec, chief of the stone-masons ;
and Gareb, chief of the workmen in silver and gold,
and the engravers.
Why should they not, if it so please the King,
take his place, as he intended, now that he is dead?
84
EIGHTH DEGREE.
T. \ P. \ Brother Ahishar, as governor of my house,
you should be somewhat conversant with the compe¬
tency of these pupils of our deceased Grand Master
to fill his place and carry on the work upon the Tem¬
ple ; how do you adjudge them ?
J. -. TP. \ Thrice Puissant, they were greatly trusted
by the Grand Master, and he believed them fitted to
succeed him. They may, at least, conduct the work
until one can be found fitted in all respects to be ap¬
pointed Grand Master Architect. They will partly
supply the great loss we have sustained, if they can
do no more.
T. *. P.\ Have they attained the rank of Provost
and Judge ?
J.-.Wr. They have, and ever proved themselves,
as Judges, just and impartial.
T.\ P. -. Brother Wardens, your counsels are ap¬
proved. If present, let Adoniram, Joabert, Stolkin,
Selec and Gareb, arise.
The Candidate and four brethren, among whom is the Master of
Ceremonies, rise.
T.\ P. \ Were you the pupils of our Brother Hi¬
ram ?
M. \ of C.'. We were.
T. •. P. *. In what did he instruct you ?
M.\ of C.\ In the arts and sciences—especially
architecture—and in the mysterious knowledge of
the Magi and Etruscans. But our knowledge, in
comparison with his, is nothing.
T. •. P. \ He knows much who is conscious of his
ignorance. Are you willing to devote you* time,
INTEND A NT OF THE BUILDING
85
your talents, your energies, to the great work which
he commenced, but did not live to finish ?
M.-. of C.\ Thrice Puissant, we fear to assume so
grave a responsibility, knowing ourselves incompe¬
tent.
T. •. P. \ If I command ?
M. \ of C.\ Then we shall undertake the task with
diffidence—devoting our energies to the great work,
and relying more upon your kind indulgence than
upon our own merits.
T. \ P.\ Remember ever to apply yourself with
zeal to whatsoever work may be required of you or
allotted you to do—ever remembering the Lord seeth.
You will all now retire, and being severally at¬
tired in white robes of purity, you will again enter
this chamber, for investiture, if found qualified and
worthy.
The five brethren retire, and all put on white robes and the re¬
galia of Provosts and Judges; the signs and lessons.of the Fourth,
Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Degrees are rehearsed. All then proceed
to the door, and the Master of Ceremonies o o o. Within, Junior
Warden o o o o o; Senior Warden o o o o o; and Thrice Puissant
o o o o o
S.\ W.\ There is an alarm, Tnrice Puissant.
T. \ P.'. Ascertain the cause of the alarm.
S. \ W. \ Brother Captain of the Guard, see who
knocks as an Intendant of the Building.
Captain of the Guard repeats at the door.
M.\ of C.\ Five Provosts and Judges, duly qual¬
ified and found competent, now claim admission, to
await the orders of the King as to the completion of
the Temple and the work of the Secret Chamber.
86
EIGHTH DEGREE.
Captain of the Guard repeats to Senior Warden. Senior Warden
repeats to Thrice Puissant.
T.\ P. \ Let them enter, and remain in the West.
Senior Warden repeats to the Captain of the Guard.
C.\ of Or. Enter, and remain in the West.
The following Ode is then sung as the five brethren enter, and
face the altar.
ODE.
C. M. Balerma.
If thou true wisdom from above
Wilt graciously impart,
To keep thy perfect laws I will
Devote my zealous heart.
Direct me in the sacred ways
To which thy precepts lead,
Because my chief delight has been
Thy righteous paths to tread.
T.\ P.\ My Brethren, to become an Intendant of
the Building it is necessary that you be skillful
architects and learned in the knowledge of the East
and Egypt. But it is equally necessary that you
should be charitable -and benevolent, that you may
sympathize with the laboring man, relieve his neces¬
sities, see to his comforts and that of his family, and
smooth for him and for those who depend upon him
the rugged way of life. Recognizing men as your
brethren, and yourselves as the almoners of Grod's
bounty—are you willing to perform these duties 1
Fixe Breth.-. Iam.
Tr. P.-. You will, then, be conducted five times
around the Lodge for the reading of the lesson.
The five brethren are conducted five times around the Lodge; at
each circuit is read one paragraph of the follow Lesson—music be¬
tween the reading of the paragraphs:
INTEND ANT OF THE BUILDING.
87
LESSON.
T.P.\ I will restore thy judges, as at the first,
and thy councillors as at the beginning; for the light
of the righteous shall be established, as the Lord
giveth wisdom ; out of his mouth cometh understand¬
ing and knowledge.
S.\ W.-. Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant
or a laboring man that is poor and needy ; on the
day when he earns it, thou shalt give him his hire,
nor shall the sun go down upon it; for he is poor,
and it is his life : lest he cry against thee unto the
Lord, and God punish thee for this sin.
/. \ WWhen thou beatest thine olive-trees, thou
shalt not go over the boughs again ; it shall be for
the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow ; when
thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt
not glean it afterwards—it shall be for the stranger,
the fatherless, and the widow.
T.P.*. If there be among you a poor man, and
one unable to work, of thy brethren, within any of
thy gates, thou shalt not harden thy heart nor shut
thine hand from thy poor brother, but shalt open
thy hand unto him, and shalt surely lend him suffi¬
cient for his need ; for thou art but God's treasurer,
to dispense his benefits to the poor.
S. \ TP.\ If any Brother be waxen poor, and be
compelled to serve thee, thou shalt not rule over him
with rigor, but shalt fear thy God. Nor shalt thou
discharge those whose labor is their life because thy
profits are not large ; but thou shalt be God's almo¬
ner ; for he hath but lent thee all the wealth thou
hast; and thou art but his trustee for the poor, the
suffering and the destitute.
The five brethren are halted before the altar.
88
EIGHTH DEGREE.
T.\ P. \ Brother Senior Warden, you will cause
the brethren to advance by five steps, and then re¬
cede by five steps, when you will place one of them
in due position, that he may symbolize the death of
our Grand Master Hiram.
The Senior Warden causes the five brethren to advance by five
steps and recede as many, explaining the same briefly.
S.\ W.\ My Brethren, this step of the degree of
Intendant of the Building is intended to symbolize
your fulfillment of the promise to recede from every¬
thing that is vicious in your nature, and to strive
and study how you may best advance to virtue.
My Brethren, in order that a Provost and Judge
may be qualified for the office of Intendant of the
Building, it will be necessary for him to take a sol¬
emn obligation in the same position in which he
whom he represents as an architect lies in the grave ;
for we should be dead to sin and vice, that we may
arise to virtue.
The Candidate, being- prostrate on his back, is covered with a
crimson cloth. In his right hand is placed a sprig of acacia, and in
his left, the Book of the Testimony.
S.\ W.'. Thrice Puissant, the candidate is now in
the proper position to take upon himself the obliga¬
tion of an Intendant of the Building.
T. \ P. •. (o o o) My Brother, if you are still desir¬
ous of attaining the mysteries of this degree, you
will retain your present position, and listen to the
following
OBLIGATION.
I, , promise and swear, in the presence of
him who dwelleth between the cherubim and of this
Lodge of Intendants of the Building, about me as¬
sembled, that I will not reveal any part or parts,
point or points, of the mysteries of the Ineffable de-
INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING.
89
gree of Intendant of the Building, which I have al¬
ready known, am about to receive, or which I may
hereafter be instructed in, to any person or persons,
unless it be to a true and lawful Brother or Brothers
of this degree ; and not unto him or them, until after
strict examination, due trial, or lawful information
from a well-known Brother, that he or they are wor¬
thy of that confidence, or within the body of a just,
perfect, and regular Lodge of Intendants of the Build¬
ing, or by sanction of constitutional authority ;
That I will not be concerned, aid, or assist in con¬
ferring this degree, unless it shall be in a Lodge of
Intendants of the Building, working under a Lodge
of Perfection ;
That I will not be concerned, aid, or assist in con¬
ferring this degree upon any one, unless he has pre¬
viously taken all the preceding degrees in a due and
regular manner ;
That I will practice the duties of benevolence and
charity ; that I will not oppress or defraud anyone
in my employ, nor abandon him when sick, feeble
and unable to work ; nor overwork nor underpay
him ; but will ever remember that he is my Brother,
entitled to sympathy, regard, and assistance ;
That I will acknowledge the authority and obey
the general laws, rules, and regulations of the United
Supreme Council of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors
General of the Thirty-third Degree ; the statutes and
laws of the Council of Deliberation of the State of
, and the rules and by-laws of this or any
other Lodge of which I may become a member, so
far as they may come to my knowledge.
The Candidate then repeats these last lines:
To all these I promise and swear, binding myself
under no less a penalty than that of being deprived
of my sight and hearing. So help me God. Amen !
T. •. P.\ My Brother, you have already been taught
that your receding five steps and advancing live steps
90
EIGHTH DEGREE.
indicate that you should recede from vice and ad¬
vance to virtue ; they are called the five steps of ex¬
actness. Your present posture is that of a dead man,
and is to remind you of the unhappy fate of the
Grand Master Hiram, and that, like him, you should
be dead to sin before you can be made alive to virtue.
The crimson color of the robe covering you is em¬
blematical of his zeal and heroic courage.
May his zeal, courage, and resolution be yours ;
and, like him, prove faithful to your trust. I shall
now raise you by the lion's paw, in a manner similar
to which he was raised under the sprig of acacia.
By your being thus raised, is symbolized that you
will in some measure repair that loss, by imitating
his bright example.
Raises him by the Master Mason's grip.
My Brother, I accept and declare you an Inten-
dant of the Building, and one of the chief architects
of the Masonic Temple.
I wTill now put you in possession of the signs, grip,
word, etc., of this degree.
.ja. #.*. of Surprise. Place .||. thumbs one on each temple, .||. .
extended in front of .]|. forehead, and forming a square, as if to pro¬
tect .]|. .-A-. from ,|[. .lx. In this attitude take . W. steps forward and
then . W. backward, and say mirohk-neb.
.je. of Admiration: In answer 'V ja. interlace .[|. fingers
of. ||. .W. .hns. in front of .||. forehead, and let them fall to a level
with ,||. waist, looking upward, and say rahca.".
.ji. of Sorrow: Each places his 4- • I - on his heart, and his .f.
. t. on his .f. hip; then, each balancing himself .H. times on his
knees, one says auh.'. and the other haj.'.
E3PV. Each places his . I- -IT- heart of .||. other, then each
with his 4- • I - takes the other by ,||. .%. elbow, and puts his .f. . I.,
on .||. shoulder of . ||. other; then one says hanikehs.-. and the other
says avey.\
P.'. V.'. m i r o h k-n e b.\ r a h c a.'.
S.\V.'. auh.'. haj.-. hanikehs.*. avey.\
INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING.
91
The three mysterious characters—the Hebrew let¬
ter 1 (J), thrice repeated—are the initials of the three
sacred words of tins degree, which are to be found
in the centre of the five-pointed star in the East, sur¬
rounded by the triple interlaced triangle.
The battery of five, the five lights on the altar, the
five steps, the five-pointed star, and the travel five
times about the body of the Lodge, are all emble¬
matical of the first five Chief Architects.
The age is that of a Master Mason (9), multiplied
by that of an Entered Apprentice (3), representing
that the Architects or Intendants were thrice pow¬
erful as Masters and Chief of Architecture ; hence
the number of lights in the Lodge.
INVESTITURE.
My Brother. I now with pleasure decorate you
with a crimson Cordon of Order, to which is sus¬
pended by a green ribbon a triangular plate of gold
—the Jewel of the degree. The crimson is emble¬
matical of that zeal which should characterize you
as an Intendant of the Building ; and the green, of
the hope that you will honor and advance the Craft,
and supply, so far as in you lies the power, the place
of our late Grand Master Hiram.
I also decorate you with this triangular Apron, of
white, lined with crimson and bordered with green ;
on it you will observe the five-pointed star which
shines in the East, with the Hebrew letter i (J), thrice
repeated, in the centre, which is to remind you of
the threefold essence of the Deity and of the three
sacred words of this degree. Over the star is the
equipoised balance of Justice ; on the flap of the
apron you will observe, as on the jewel, the Hebrew
letters 3, x, i, (B, A, J,)—one on each angle of the
triangle — having reference to Ben-khurim, Achar,
and Jakinuli.
The number Five, in this degree, my Brother, has
many allusions, some of which have already been
92
EIGHTH DEGREE.
explained to yon ; it is also to remind us of. the five
points of fellowship : that we are to go on a Brother's
errand or to his relief even barefoot and upon flinty
ground ; to remember him in your supplications to
the Deity ; to clasp him to your heart and protect
him against misfortune and slander ; to uphold him
when about to stumble and fall ; and to give pru¬
dent, honest, and friendly counsel. Such are the
duties you are especially to observe and to teach to
others, for they are the first ordinances of Masonry.
Now, my Brother, you will proceed to the South,
and listen to further instruction from the Grand
Orator.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate to the Grand
Orator.
HISTORY.
G. \ 0.\ My Brother, but little need be said to you
of the history of this degree, as it is fully given in
the reception. You have on this occasion repre¬
sented one of the five chief architects appointed by
King Solomon to conduct the work upon the Temple,
in the place of Hiram, the chief architect, who had
been murdered. The king was always desirous of
carrying to the highest state of perfection the work
he had begun in Jerusalem, and upon the loss of the
skillful Hiram, much concern was felt as to whether
the original design of the structure could be com¬
pleted, and, also, as to whether the arrangements
that had been projected for ornamentation and dec¬
oration would not fail for want of skill and ability
on the part of the workmen. Pending these diffi¬
culties, on consultation, it was recommended by the
High Priest Sadoc, and Ahishar. Governor of the
House, that five artificers who had been pupils of
Hiram, should be placed, as chiefs, over five depart¬
ments in the construction of the edifice, and that at
least the building could proceed until they could find
a Grand Master Architect.
INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING.
93
Adoniram, the son of Abda, was selected as tlie
President of the Board of Architects—the others
being Joabert, a Phoenician, the chief artificer in
brass ; Stolkin, a Hebrew, chief carpenter ; Selec,
the Giblernite, chief stone-mason ; and Garab, a He¬
brew, chief worker in silver and gold, and chief en¬
graver.
King Solomon was well aware that the zeal and
abilities of these men would be exerted to the ut¬
most in bringing to perfection so glorious a work.
In like manner, we expect you to do all in your power
to promote the grand design of Masonry, and to bring
to perfection the works of this Lodge of Intendants
of the Building—exercising and propagating charity
and benevolence, educating the poor orphan, com¬
forting the sick and distressed, and providing refuge
for the unfortunate.
You have learned in your previous degrees that,
in order to succeed in the great work of erecting a
Temple not made with hands and dedicated to the
Grand Architect of the Universe, you must emulate
the same spirit, the same fortitude and resolution
possessed by our Grand Master Hiram—preferring
your integrity to your life.
You will still advance towards the light—towards
the star blazing in the distance—which is an emblem
of the divine truth, given by God to the first men,
and preserved amid all the vicissitudes of ages in the
traditions and teachings of Masonry. Here, as every¬
where in the world, Darkness struggles with Light,
and clouds and shadows intervene between you and
the truth.
You are now, my Brother, a student of the moral¬
ity of Masonry, with which, we trust, you will be¬
come imbued, as for some time you will be exclu¬
sively occupied in its study ; step by step you must
advance towards perfection in the moral code of Ma¬
sonry ; each Masonic degree is meant to be one of
those steps ; each is a development of a particular
duty ; and in the present one, you are taught charity
and benevolence. With these two virtues, man can
94
EIGHTH DEGREE.
best prepare for that future which he hopes for.
The law of our being is love of life—this wonderful
creation of God—and its interests and adornments ;
love of the world ; not a low and sensual love ; not
love of wealth, fame, ease, power, and splendor ; not
low worldliness ; but the love of earth as the garden
on which the Creator has lavished such miracles of
beauty ; as the habitation of humanity—the dwell¬
ing-place of the wise, the good, the active, and the
loving ; the place for the exercise of the noblest pas¬
sions, the loftiest virtues, and the tenderest sympa¬
thies. This is the charity or love we would teach in
this degree ; for God himself is love, and every de¬
gree of charity that dwells in us is the participation
of the divine nature.
The Master of Ceremonies seats the Candidate.
CLOSING.
T. *. P. \ (o) Brother Captain of the Guard, your
station and duty ?
C. \ of G.\ In the North, and, as the chief of the
guards, to see that the Lodge is secure.
T. \ P. \ Attend to your duty, and inform the Sen¬
tinel that I am about to close this Lodge of Inten-
dants of the Building.
The Captain of the Guard instructs the Sentinel, and reports:
C.\ of G.\ Thrice Puissant, we are secure.
Thrice Puissant o o; Wardens rise.
T.P. \ Brother Joabert, are you an Intendant
of the Building ?
INTENDANT OF THE BUILDING.
95
S. \ W. \ I have made the five steps of exactitude ;
I have penetrated into the innermost parts of the
Temple, and have seen the great light, in which is
the mysterious character i (J) thrice repeated.
T.\ P.\ What lesson are you taught in this de¬
gree %
S. \ W.That we should apply ourselves with zeal
to whatsoever work may be required of us or allotted
to us to do in the Temple—ever remembering that
the Lord seeth.
T.-.P.-. Brother Junior Warden, what is the
hour \
J. \ W. \ Close of day, Thrice Puissant.
T. \ P.\ Then it is time to close our labors.
Brother Senior Warden, give notice to the Brethren
that I am about to close this Lodge of Intendants of
the Building, that they may govern themselves ac¬
cordingly.
S.\ W.\ (o o o) Brethren, the Thrice Puissant is
about to close this Lodge of Intendants of the Build¬
ing. Give your attention and assistance to the work.
T.\ P.\ Together, .my brethren :
***** OOOOOO
To the glory of the Grand Architect of the Universe,
in the name and under the auspices of the United
Supreme Council, and by virtue of the authority on
me conferred, I hereby declare this Lodge of Inten¬
dants of the Building closed. Brother Captain of
the Guard, inform the Sentinel.
96 EIGHTH DEGREE.
The Captain of the Guard instructs the Sentinel.
-.'.TV.J7
C.\ of G.\ Brother Sentinel, this Lodge of Inten-
dants of the Building is closed.
o
NINTH DEGREE.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE.
HISTORY.
This degree was created by King Solomon to re¬
ward the fidelity and zeal of Joabert, who was the
first to detect and bring to justice Akirop, one of the
assassins of our operative Grand Master Hiram Abi.
It was also designed to illustrate this lesson : "That
we should be careful how we allow ourselves to be
led away by an excess of zeal, even in a good cause,
to inflict, as an individual, the punishment justly
due for the violation of human or divine laws."
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, ETC.
The hangings are black, strewed with flames, suspended from
eight columns—four on each side. There are nine great lights—
eight forming an octagon round the altar, which is in the centre;
the other light is placed half way between the altar and the East.
The altar is covered with black, and on it are placed the Book of
the Testimony, two cross swords and a dagger.
An urn, containing a number of white and black ballots, on the
Secretary's desk.
A room representing a cavern, lighted by a single lamp, in which
is placed a representation of Akirop sleeping; in one corner a cup
of water, and a dagger by the side of the reclining assassin.
7
98
NINTH DEGREE.
The body is styled a Chapter, and consists of nine members, who
represent the first Nine Knights Elect. They are
Thrice Puissant Master, represents King Solomon;
Senior Inspector, represents King Hiram;
Junior Inspector, represents Adoniram;
Orator, represents Zabud;
Secretary, represents Sadoc;
Treasurer, represents Josaphat;
Hospitaller, represents Ahisar;
Master of Ceremonies, represents the Stranger Pharos, a poor
herdsman;
Captain of the Guard, represents Banacas.
Apron:—White, lined and bordered with black, sprinkled with
blood; in the centre, a bloody head held by the hair; on the flap,
an arm holding a dagger.
Sash:—A broad black watered ribbon,worn from the right shoulder
to the left hip; at the lower end nine red rosettes, four on each side
and one at the bottom, from which pendant the
Jewel:—A dagger, hilt of gold and blade of silver.
During a reception the Thrice Puissant and Senior Inspector wear
Royal robes with crown and sceptre; the Secretary wears robe and
mitre of the High Priest.
The Junior Inspector and other officers are robed in black with
cowles, and the apron, sash and jewel of this degree, and sit cross-
legged during the working of the degree, with the right elbow on
the knee and head on the right hand, as if fatigued.
Stranger, clothed as a Shepherd.
Battery, o o o o o o o o—o
The Lights are not lighted until the Chapter is opened.
Hour:—First hour of night.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE.
99
OPENING.
T.\ P. \ (o) [C. of G. rises ] Brother Captain of the
Guard, are all present Knights Elect of Nine ?
C. \ of G.\ [Examines.] They are, Thrice Puissant.
T. •. P.*. Brother Captain of the Guard, your sta¬
tion and duty \
C.\ of G.\ In the North, to see the Guards duly
posted and that the Chapter is secure.
T.\ P. \ Attend*to your duty, and inform the
Guards that I am about to open this Chapter of
Knights Elect of Nine.
Captain of the Guard stations the guard, and says:
C. \ of G.\ Guards, the Thrice Puissant is about
to open a Chapter of Knights Elect of Nine. Take
due notice and govern yourself accordingly.
C. \ of G. \ Thrice Puissant, the guards are posted
and the Chapter is secure.
T. •. P. \ (o o) [Junior inspector rises] Brother Junior
Inspector, are you a Knight Elect of Nine ?
J. ■. I.'. A cavern received me, a lamp lighted me,
and a fountain refreshed me.
T. \ P. •. What are you taught as a Knight Elect
of Nine ?
J.-. I.'. That I should be careful how I suffer my¬
self to be led astray by excess of zeal, even in a good
cause, to exercise as an individual the vengeance
due for the violation of divine and human laws.
100
ISTHSTTH DEGREE.
T. \ P.\ What is the hour ?
J. \ i. •. The first hour of night.
T. \ P.-. If it be the first hour of night, it is time
to commence our work. Give notice that I am about
to open a Chapter of Knights Elect of Nine.
J.-. I.-, (o o o) fAllrise.] Companions, the Thrice
Puissant is about to open a Chapter of Knights Elect
of Nine. Give your attention and assistance to the
work.
Signs given i, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, o o o o o o o o—o
J. \ l.\ 0000000 o—o
T. •. P.\ This Chapter of Knights Elect of Nine
is open. Brother Captain of the Guard, inform the
Guard.
Captain of the Guard does so and reports.
RECEPTION.
T. ■. P. \ (0 o o) Knights and Brethren, it is here¬
by ordered that a general conclave of all Masons, of
whatever degree, be assembled in the Main Court, to
counsel upon such matters as shall thereat be made
known. The Captain of the Guard, under direction
of the Junior Inspector, will see this order immedi¬
ately complied with.
The Knights, clothed in the regalia of various degrees, and the
Candidate as an Intendant of the Building, assemble in the Main
Court as ordered, the Master of Ceremonies remaining in the ante¬
room. The Thrice Puissant and Senior Inspector entering last, take
their stations on the rostrum.
T. \ P. \ (o) Judges, Masters and Brethren, you
have been assembled for the important duty of coun-
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE
101
seling upon the best means to be adopted for the de¬
tection of the assassins of our late Grand Master
Hiram A.bi. His blood still stains the floor of our
Temple, and his sufferings and death yet remain un¬
avenged. What further course to pursue, is the
cause of this gathering.
A Brother. Sovereign Master, what means have
heretofore been adopted, and what progress has been
made in obtaining any clue or information tending
to the arrest of the perpetrators of this foul deed \
T.\ P.\ The roll of workmen has been called ; the
names of the assassins have been ascertained ; the
country has been thoroughly searched, and accurate
descriptions sent to the uttermost parts of our king¬
dom, but no tiding had ; what further course to pur¬
sue is now submitted for deliberation, trusting that
by some advice we may aid justice.
Master of Ceremonies without, robed as a shepherd, oooooooo
—o
C.'.ofG.'. [Opening the door, says:] What is the cause
of this alarm %
M. . of C.\ A Shepherd desires a private audi¬
ence with the Sovereign Master.
C.\ofG.\ [Closing the door.] Thrice Puissant, a Shep¬
herd is without, and desires a private audience.
T. \ P. \ Ask him if it relates to private or to pub¬
lic affairs, as we are now in public council.
C. \ of G. \ [Opening the door.] The King is in public
council, and inquires whether your business be on
public or private affairs.
M.\ of C.\ On public affairs, and relates to the
assassination of his friend Hiram Abi, the builder.
102
NINTH DEGREE.
C. \ of G. Thrice Puissant, the Shepherd has in¬
formation in relation to the assassination of our
Grand Master Hiram Abi.
T.\ P.'. Let him enter.
The Master of Ceremonies enters, advances to the East, kneels
in front of the Thrice Puissant, rises again, and stands with his arms
crossed on his breast.
T.\ P.\ Stranger, speak freely. What have you
to communicate \
Mr. of C.\ Sovereign Master, I have ventured to
solicit the honor of this interview, that I may inform
you that my herds feed on the mountains east of
Joppa ; while searching for one that had strayed, I
penetrated into the deepest recesses of the hills. I
found in a narrow valley the slain carcass of the
animal 1 sought; and, following the track of him
who had killed it, I came upon a cavern in the steep
side of the mountain, and hiding myself near it,
among the rocks, I saw at nightfall three persons
enter, coming from the valley, answering to the de¬
scription of the assassins of Hiram the Builder ; then
I crept near, and listening, learned that they were
the murderers of whom your officers had been in
search. Then, cautiously withdrawing, I came hither
with all speed, to give information, and also to offer
you my services to guide to the cave those whom you
may select for that purpose.
T. \ P.*. You have done well, my friend, and this
favor shall not go unrewarded. Masters and Breth¬
ren, you have heard the information given by the
Shepherd.
We commemorated the memory of our lamented
Grand Master by the erection of a monument, thus
testifying our love for his virtues and our desire that
his name should be forever honored by the craft.
While it is well that we thus express our sorrow at
his loss, and our desire to emulate his virtues, we
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE.
103
must not forget that we have a sterner duty to per¬
form dictated to us by the demands of justice, and
which tells us that we have not done our whole duty
until we have avenged his memory, by inflicting up¬
on his murderers that punishment which their most
heinous crime so richly merits.
This day, my Brethren, we are particularly fa¬
vored, by having given to us the means of capturing
them. The Shepherd informs us of the exact place
of concealment of the ruffians whom we have desired
to find, and he volunteers to guide those of you
whom I may select to that spot. It will doubtless
be no unpleasant duty for you, my Brethren, to go
upon this most righteous errand. I will therefore
send those who may volunteer to accompany the
guide. Those desirous of doing so may now rise.
All rise.
I am exceedingly gratified at this new proof of
your zeal, but it will be impossible to send so large
a number. It will be necessary to select a few, that
all may have an opportunity for this honor.
The Captain of the Gruard will permit the brethren
to draw ballots from an urn, and those who shall ob¬
tain the black ballots shall be the chosen few, not
exceeding nine brethren, who will be guided to the
cavern where the assassins are secreted. Let not
the law and justice be defrauded of their due ; but,
taking the assassins alive, bring them hither to be
tried and punished according to their deserts. If
you succeed, you shall receive new honors, and your
names as the Nine Elect shall be magnified in Isreal.
The urn has two apartments, in one of which are placed the white
ballots and in the other all black. The Captain of the Guard, in pre¬
senting the urn to the brethren, is careful to let the Candidate and
eight others draw black ballots. This being done, the Thrice Puis¬
sant says:
T.\ P.'. Let the Nine Elect approach. My Breth¬
ren, the lot has fallen upon you to undertake this
104
NINTH DEGREE.
dangerous yet important duty. If you have the
courage and resolution to proceed with this hazard¬
ous task, go and prepare to set forth at the first hour
of night.
Those selected proceed on their journey; the Master of Ceremo¬
nies and Candidate at the head. After passing through the ante¬
room, the Master of Ceremonies hurries the Candidate up and over
the rough and rugged road; the rest lag behind; they then come to
a place representing a cave, in which is a Brother lying down as if
asleep, and near his feet a dagger; suspended is a single dim light;
also, a spring of water, and a cup near to drink from.
While the Brethren are in the cave, the Knights and Officers re¬
sume their places in the Chapter-room.
When they arrive at this cave, the Master of Ceremonies will give
the Candidate the *.\ of silence, and say: "It is Akirop, one of the
assassins; he sleeps; let us take advantage of this to avenge our
Grand Master." The Master of Ceremonies then seizes the dagger
and strikes him in the head and heart; he then cuts off the head,
and takes the false head, which lies concealed by the Brother, and
makes the Candidate take the dagger in his right hand and the head
in the left; he then causes the Candidate to drink from the spring,
giving him water in the cup. A voice exclaims, "Vengeance is
taken ! " They then will return with the selected Brethren to the
door of the Chapter, and the Master of Ceremonies oooooooo
—o; Captain of the Guard o o o o o o o o—o, and opens the door.
O. •. of G. \ Who is there %
M.\ of C.\ Joabert, who has killed the ruffian
Akirop, thus avenging the death of our Grand Mas¬
ter. He now desires to lay the head at the foot of
our Thrice Puissant.
The Captain of the Guard admits them; the Master of Ceremo¬
nies and Candidate hurriedly approach the East, still carrying the
head and dagger, and lay them at the feet of the King.
T.-. P.\ What means this? Whose head have
you there ?
M.of G.\ [Salutes.] Sovereign Master, it is the
head of Akirop, who slew our Gfrand Master. Joa¬
bert has right nobly avenged his death.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE.
105
T.\ P.-. Was lie slain in combat?
M.\ of Or. No, Sovereign Master, lie was stabbed
in the head and in the heart while sleeping.
T. P.-. Then have onr orders been most grossly
violated, and we are deprived of the opportunity of
inflicting a just punishment upon the greatest of
criminals. Captain of the Guard, make ready for
an execution! Joabert has deprived us of the op¬
portunity of avenging the death of Hiram Abi by
his rash act of disobedience, and he shall bear the
penalty which he has prevented us from inflicting
upon Akirop.
Or. Ir. Thrice Puissant, Joabert has been well
known as a zealous craftsman, and it is to his activ¬
ity and zeal that we owe the discovery of Akirop.
Pardon, then, I pray you, the excess of zeal which
in an unguarded moment betrayed him into a disre¬
gard of your royal commands.
All the Brethren exclaim, " Pardon him! Thrice Puissant, pardon
him!"
Tr. P.-. Joabert, in consideration of your zeal
and past good conduct, as stated by the Grand In¬
spector, you are pardoned. But you must take a
vow to obey henceforth the commands laid upon you
by your superiors. Repair to the altar, and we will
administer an obligation, and we will commemorate
the punishment of Akirop for the assassination of
Hiram Abi by the institution of a degree, to be called,
in honor of the Nine Brethren who went forth for
his capture, "The Knights of the Nine Elect."
All should now leave but the Officers and the Nine Brethren.
The Candidate kneels at the altar, and takes the following obliga¬
tion, with the left hand upon the sword of the Thrice Puissant, which
is extended, and the right hand elevated, holding a dagger:
106
NINTH DEGREE.
OBLIGATION.
I, , do hereby and hereon most solemnly
promise and swear, in the presence of Him who dwell-
eth between the Cherubim and these Brethren about
me assembled, that I will not reveal any of the se¬
crets now about to be intrusted to my keeping, unto
any person or persons in the world, unless I shall
know him or them to be justly entitled to receive the
same;
That I will not be present, aid or assist in confer¬
ring this degree upon any person, unless he shall
have previously received the preceding symbolic and
ineffable degrees in a just and constitutional manner,
and that to my full and entire satisfaction ;
That I will not aid or assist in conferring this de¬
gree, unless in a regular Chapter of Knights Elect of
Nine, duly constituted and holden in a Lodge of Per¬
fection, or by the constituted authority of the United
Supreme Council of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors
General of the 33d degree ;
That I will obey the commands laid upon me by
my masonic superiors, and endeavor to guard against
rashly exceeding them ;
All of which I promise and swear, binding myself
under no less a penalty than of being stabbed in my
head and heart if I should willfully be guilty of vio¬
lating this my solemn obligation. So help me God.
Amen.
T.\ P. -. Receive now, my Brother, the signs and
words which are to be henceforth your means of re¬
cognition as a Knight Elect of Nine.
Strike with .|j. . as if with a dagger .ja. at .]|. forehead
and then at . ||. heart of the other, and say muken.1.
N.*. Pass ,||. 4. . . over the forehead and then look at it as if to
see if it is bloody, then place it on the heart, and say haken.\
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE.
107
1®"Close ,||. fingers of .||. . (^. and present it to the other,
with the thumb raised. He takes the thumb in his . closing
his own fingers and raising his thumb. Result will be A .f. closed
and O thumb raised, representing vVElus.
P.". V.\ One says m u k e n.\ the other answers t r e b a o j.\
then the first says mariaba:. the other answers poriaka:.
S.\ V.\ liyahk — iaroba g.\
T. \ P.\ My Brother, I now designate and present
to you the jewel of this degree. It is the avenging
blade, which will be sure to find the perjured and
guilty traitor.
The lesson taught in this degree is, that we should
be careful not to suffer ourselves, by our excess of
zeal, to be led away, even in a good cause, to exe¬
cute as an individual the vengeance due for the vio¬
lation of divine or human laws.
INVESTITURE.
T.\ P.\ I invest you with the other symbols of
this degree. This apron and sash denote the mel¬
ancholy death of our Grand Master Hiram Abi. The
bloody arm and red roses, the instrument and the
blood shed by the eight and one Knights to atone
for his death. The head of Akirop was placed on
the pinnacle of the gate of the Temple at the first
hour of night.
You will now go and salute the Grand Inspector,
and then repair to the Grand Orator for the history
of this degree.
HISTORY.
G.\ 0. •. After the death of the Grand Master Hi¬
ram Abi, the three assassins having made their es¬
cape, a great assembly of Masons was convened by
King Solomon to consult as to the best means of dis¬
covering and apprehending them. Their delibera-
108
NINTH DEGREE.
tions were interrupted by the entrance of a herds¬
man, who demanded to speak to the King. On being
admitted to an interview, he acquainted King Solo¬
mon that he had discovered three persons concealed
in a cave near the coast of Joppa answering the de¬
scription given of the traitors, and he offered to con¬
duct those whom the King should select to the place
of their concealment. This being communicated to
the Masters, they one and all eagerly requested to
be made participators in the vengeance due the as¬
sassins. Solomon checked their ardor, declaring that
only nine should undertake the task ; and to avoid
giving any offence, ordered a selection of nine of the
brethren by lot to accompany the stranger. At the
first hour of the night. Joabert, Stolkin, and seven
others, conducted by the stranger, traveled onward
through a rough and dreary country towards the
coast of Joppa. On the way, Joabert, learning that
the murderers were hidden in a cavern not far from
where they then were, pressed on ahead, found the
cavern, and entered it with the shepherd, where, by
the dim light of the lamp, he discovered Akirop
asleep, with a dagger at his feet. Inflamed at the
sight, and actuated by an impatient zeal, he imme¬
diately seized the dagger and stabbed him first in
the head and then in the heart. Akirop had only
time to say, "Necum" or "vengeance is taken,"
and expired. Joabert then quenched his thirst at
the fountain. When the eight arrived at the spot,
they asked Joabert what he had done ; he replied,
"I have slain Akirop, the assassin of our Grand
Master, and have performed a feat for the honor and
glory of the craft, for which I hope to be rewarded."
Joabert severed the head from the body, and taking
it in one hand and his dagger in the other, he with
the eight returned to Jerusalem. Joabert, in his
zeal, hastened into the presence of the King, passing
the guards at the entrance. Solomon was at first
very much offended that Joabert had put it out of
his power to take vengeance in the presence of, and
as a warning to, the rest of the workmen, and or-
KNIGHTS ELECT OF NINE.
109
dered the guards to put Joabert to death ; but by
the intercession of his Brethren he was pardoned for
his zeal, and they became reconciled. Joabert be¬
came highly favored by Solomon, who established
the degree of Knights Elect of Nine, and conferred
it upon him and his eight companions.
CLOSING.
T. •. P.*. (o) Brother Captain of the Guard, your
station and duty %
C.\ of G.\ In the North, to see the Guards duly
posted and that the Chapter is secure.
T.\ P. \ Attend to your duty, and inform the
Guards that I am about to close this Chapter of
Knights Elect of Nine.
Captain of the Guard does so and reports.
T.\ P. \ (o o) Brother Junior Inspector, are you
a Knight Elect of Nine ?
J.-. I.-. A cavern received me, a lamp lighted me
and a fountain refreshed me.
T.\ P.* What are you taught as a Knight Elect
of Nine %
J.\ I. *. That I should be careful how I suffer my¬
self to be led away by an excess of zeal, even in a
good cause, to exercise as an individual the ven¬
geance due for the violation of divine and human
laws.
T. •. P.-. My Brother, what is the hour?
J. -. I. -. It is midnight.
110
NINTH DEGREE.
T.P.-. If it is midnight, then it is time to close
our work ; give notice to the Knights that I am about
to close this Chapter of Knights Elect of Nine.
J.\ I. ', (o o o) Knights, the Thrice Puissant is
about to close this Chapter of Knights Elect of Nine ;
give your attention and assistance to the work.
Signs, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1.
Thrice Puissant 0000000 o—o
Junior Inspector 0000000 o—o
T.\ P.\ This Chapter of Knights Elect of Nine
is closed. Brother Captain of the Guard, inform
the Guard.
0
TENTH DEGREE.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
HISTORY.
This degree is a continuation of the series known
as the Elu, or Elect degrees, and recounts in detail
the mode of the arrest and punishment of the re¬
maining two assassins of Hiram Abi, and is intended
morally to instruct us that ambition and fanaticism,
enslavers of mankind, are overthrown and dispelled
by the sword of justice and freedom.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
The hangings are black, sprinkled with red and white tears.
There are fifteen lights, five in the East, and five before each
Warden; four forming a square, and one in the centre; all of yellow
wax.
The altar is covered with black, strewed with silver tears.
On the altar the Great Light, Book of Constitutions, two crossed
swords and two daggers.
The Thrice Puissant Grand Master, who represents King Solo¬
mon.
112
TENTH DEGREE.
The Senior Grand Warden represents King Hiram, and sits on
his right.
The Junior Grand Warden, in the West, represents Adoniram,
the son of Abda.
The Orator represents Zabud, the King's friend.
The Secretary represents Tsadoc, the Priest.
The Treasurer represents Josaphat, the son of Ahilud, and Chan¬
cellor.
The Hospitaller represents Ahishar, Governor of the House.
The Captain of the Guard represents Zerbal.
The Master of Ceremonies represents the stranger who gave in¬
formation of the place of concealment of the assassins.
The number of members is regularly fifteen, and no more.
The Apron is white, lined, edged and fringed with black, and the
flap black. In the middle are painted or embroidered three gates,
and over each gate a head impaled on a spike.
The Sash is a black ribbon or sash, worn from right to left, on the
front of which are painted or embroidered three heads.
The Jewel is a dagger, its hilt gold and its blade silver, hanging
at the end of the sash.
During a reception the officers are dressed as in the ninth degree.
The age is 5 times 3, or 15 years.
The hour for opening is the sixth hour of the night; the hour for
closing is the sixth hour of the day.
The fifteen lights are not burning.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
113
OPENING.
T. \ P. -. G.\ M.-. (o) Brethren, I am about to
open this Chapter of Illustrious Elu of the Fifteen.
Brother Captain of the Guard, assure yourself that
all present have attained that degree.
Captain of the Guard satisfies himself and reports:
C.\ of G.\ Thrice Puissant, all present are Illus¬
trious Elus of the Fifteen.
T. . P.-. (o o o o) Brother Captain of the Gruard,
see that the entrance to the Chapter is duly guarded,
that we may not be disturbed in our deliberations.
Captain of the Guard stations the guard.
C.\ of G.\ Thrice Puissant, the entrances to the
Chapter are duly guarded, and we are secure.
T. \ P.Illustrious Brother Senior Inspector, how
did you become an Illustrious Elu of the Fifteen.
8.-. G.-.W.'. My zeal and indefatigable exertions
procured me that great honor far above my deserts.
T.•. P.-. Where were you received as such?
8.-. G.-.W.'. In the audience chamber of King
Solomon, and by himself, in the presence of his court.
T. •. P.-. How many Elus were at first received ?
8.-. G.-. IF.-. Fifteen, including Joabert, whom I
afterward represented.
T.\ P.-. On what occasion were they received?
8.-. G. \ W.\ When King Solomon dispatched them
to search for and apprehend the two murderers of
8
114
TENTH DEGREE.
our Grand Master Hiram Abif, who still remained at
large.
T.-. P.'. Whither were they dispatched ?
8.-. G.-. W.\ To the country near Gath, a city of
the Philistines, where they had taken refuge, after
they fled from the mountains east of Joppa, where
Akirop was taken.
T. \ P. \ By whom was it discovered that they had
taken refuge there ?
8.-. G.-. W.\ By Ben-Dekar, one of the nine Elus,
and afterward appointed viceroy over that portion
of Palestine.
T.-. P.-. What steps did King Solomon take to
have them apprehended ?
8.-. G.-.W.-. He sent thither the fifteen Elus, bear¬
ing letter to Maaka, tributary King of G-ath, with a
sufficient escort.
T.\ P.-. To whom was the letter committed?
8. •. G. \ W.'. To Zerbal, Captain of the Guard, and
one of the nine Elus.
T. •. P. •. Did the Fifteen succeed in apprehending
the murderers ?
8.-. G.-.W.-. They did, with the assistance fur¬
nished them by Maaka.
T. \ P.-. Where did they discover them ?
S.\ G.-.W.-. In a quarry between Gath and Sa-
phir, in which they had taken refuge.
T. \ P. -. By whom were they discovered ?
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN. 115
8.'. G.-.W.-. By Joabert and Zerbal, two of the
Elus of the Fifteen.
T. •. P. \ What was done with the murderers ?
8. •. G. \ W. . They were taken to Jerusalem, tried,
convicted and executed.
T. \ P.*. Of what are these two murderers the
types to the Illustrious Elu of the Fifteen %
8.'. G.-.W.'. Of Ambition.
T. \ P. •. What do three heads upon the apron and
collar represent ?
S.\ G. -.W.\ Ignorance, Tyranny and Fanaticism;
the three enslavers of mankind, smitten by the sword
of freedom.
T.-. P.-. What is the cause to which the Illustri¬
ous Elu of the Fifteen are now devoted \
S.-. G.-.W.-. That of the oppressed against the
oppressor, and of Toleration against Intolerance.
T.P.-. When did the fifteen Elus depart from
Jerusalem \
S.-. G. \ W.-. On the 15th day of the month Tam-
muz.
T. P.-. When did they arrive in Gath %
8.-. G. -. W. -. On the 18th day of the same month.
T.-. P.'. What is your age?
S.-. G.\W.-. 5 times 3, or 15 years, complete.
T.-. P.What is the hour %
116
TENTH DEGREE.
S.\ G.\ W.\ The sixth hour of the night.
T. •. P.-. Cause, then, the brethren to assemble
around the altar, that, renewing our pledges to one
another, we may open this Chapter of Illustrious
Elus of the Fifteen.
8.-. G.\ W.\ (o) Brethren, you will please assem¬
ble around the altar, that this Chapter may be opened
in due and ancient form.
The brethren assemble around the altar in a circle, including all
the officers, with their swords drawn. They^raise their swords, and
place the points together in the centre at an angle of 45 degrees,
and repeat as follows:
G.\ O.-. To the cause of every people that strug¬
gle against oppression !
J.\ G. -.W. '. To the cause of all who defend Right
and Justice against Tyranny !
S.\ G.-.W.'. To the cause of Toleration against
Intolerance and Persecution !
T. P. \ To the cause of Free Thought, Free
Speech, Free Conscience !
All: We devote ourselves, our hands, our hearts,
our intellects !
T.\ P.-. Now, henceforward, and forever !
All: Amen !
All return to their places. Then the Thrice Puissant gives the #,
and all the brethren answer. The Thrice Puissant then 00000,
and a brother lights the five lights in the East, the Thrice Puissant
saying:
T. \ P.-. As these lights shine in this Chapter, so
shall the light of Freedom illuminate the world.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
117
The Senior Grand Warden o o o o o, and a brother lights the
five lights in front of him.
S.\ G.\ TP.-. As my lights shine in this Chapter,
so shall the light of Religious and Political Tolera
tion rise upon the world.
The Junior Grand Warden o o o o o, and a brother lights the
five lights in front of him.
J.\ G.\ TP".-. As my lights shine in this Chapter,
so shall the light of Education and Intelligence yet
shine in all the corners of the earth.
T.\ P. -. So mote it be ! My Brethren, this Chap¬
ter is duly opened in due and ancient form.
Thrice Puissant o o o o, and all are seated.
RECEPTION.
The officers being properly clothed and seated, the Candidate,
clothed as an Elu of Nine, is received in the preparation room and
carefully examined by the Grand Master of Ceremonies in the work
and principles of the ninth degree. If the examination be satisfac¬
tory, he is conducted into the Chapter, and directed to take a seat.
T.-. P.-. My Brethren, we still lament the death
of our Illustrious Grand Master Hiram Abif, and the
demands of justice remain unsatisfied. Excellent
Grand Orator, what sayeth the law as to him who
slayeth his brother %
G.'. Or. If any man hate his neighbor, and lie in
wait for him, and rise up against him and smite him
mortally that he die, and fleeth into one of the cities
of refuge, then the Elders of his city shall send and
fetch him thence, and deliver him into the hand of
the Avenger of Blood, that he may die. Thine eye
shall not pity him, but thou shalt put away the guilt
of innocent blood from Israel, that it may go well
with thee.
118
TENTH DEGREE.
T. \ P. \ Such is the law ; and the land of Israel
is not yet purified of the innocent blood of our brother
shed upon the floor of the Temple. One of his assas¬
sins has suifered swift punishment, but two remain
at large, nor have yet been traced from their retreat
in the mountains of Joppa. I fear they have es¬
caped by sea, and are beyond our reach.
G.\ 0.'. Most Puissant King, doubt not that the
Lord will at length give the two assassins into thy
hand, even as he did Akirop, when thou didst de¬
spair of discovering his retreat.
T.P.\ The nine have even now returned from
Galilee and the confines of Phoenicia, and have no
trace whatever of the fugitives. I know not what
further steps to take.
The Master of Ceremonies, who represents Ben-Dekar, one of
the Elus of Nine, o o o o o at the door.
C.\ of 0.\ Thrice Puissant King Solomon, there
is an alarm at the entrance of the audience chamber.
T. •- P. \ See who applies to enter, and what his
errand is.
The Captain of the Guard goes to the door; opens it, and asks:
C.\ of G.\ Who is it that applies to enter here?
M.-. of C.\ Ben-Dekar, one of the Nine Knights
of Elu, who desires to have speech with our lord the
King.
C.\ of G.\ Wait, then, my Brother, while I in¬
form him of thy request.
He closes the door and approaches the East.
T. • P. •. Who is it that applies to enter ?
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
119
C.\ of G.\ Ben-Dekar, one of the Nine Knights
of Elu, who desires to have speech with thee, and
craves permission to approach thy footstool.
T. •. P.\ Let him enter and make known his tid¬
ings.
The Captain of the Guard opens the door, and the Master of Cer¬
emonies enters, advances to the East, kneels, rises, and stands
with his hands folded across his breast.
T. •. P. -. What is thine errand, and the tidings
that thou bringest ?
M.'.ofC.-. Thrice Puissant King Solomon, re¬
turning from Galilee with my companions, and leav¬
ing them on the way, I traversed the mountains to
Ekron. When at Ekron and at Ashdod I came up¬
on the track of the fugitives, and have returned
hither to inform my lord the King that they have
taken refuge in the land of Gath.
T. \ P.\ Ben-Dekar, thou hast done well. I will
forthwith send messengers to my servant Maaka,
with letters, requiring his assistance in searcing out
and capturing the fugitives. Let our Chancellor
write such letters, and .Nine Knights of Elu prepare
to set forth with sufficient escort. And, lest their
number be too small, let six others go forth with
them, selected by lot from among our servants, mak¬
ing fifteen in all. Place thou in an urn, my Brother
Adoniram, the names of all our Perfect Masters
other than the Nine Elu, and let our Grand Orator
draw forth six names, and those so drawn, with the
nine, shall go forth upon this expedition.
The Senior Grand Warden places several names in an urn, upon
slips of paper, and the Grand Orator draws forth six in succession,
reading, as he does so, the following names:
G. \ 0. \ Ben-Khased, Ben-Abinadab, Akhimaz,
120
TENTH DEGREE.
Bana Ben-Akhihed, Josapliat, the son of Pharoh,
Ben Gaber.
T.\ P.*. Let the nine Knights of Elu and the six
brethren named advance.
The Candidate and fourteen brothers, including the Master of
Ceremonies, advance to the East, and the Thrice Puissant says>
T.P. -. My Brethren, it devolves on you to per¬
form an important duty ; I place you under the com¬
mand of Zerbal, who shall bear our letters to Maaka,
our servant. King of Gath. Go thither, speedily,
and aided by the king, search his dominions for
these murderers. If you discover the assassins take
them alive and bring them here to be tried and pun¬
ished. Prepare to set forth at mid-day.
The Candidate and several brothers retire to the ante-room and
lay aside their Masonic clothing and jewels, and each arms himself
with a sword. In the meantime all the furniture of the Lodge room
is removed except the lights. The Captain of the Guard, who rep¬
resents Zerbal, then enters, conducting the Candidate, and the other
brothers follow. They proceed over a tortuous road, or make sev¬
eral times the circuit of the. room, while the lights behind the Can¬
didate, as he travels, are put out by degrees, until it is dark Ob¬
stacles are then placed in his way, and several more circuits are
made, when he is conducted to the ante-room, where the Captain
of the Guard says:
C. \ of G. \ My Brethren, we now enter the city of
Gath. Remain here while I enter the city and pre¬
sent to King Maaka the letters of our lord the King.
He goes out, remains some time, returns, and says:
0.\ of G.\ Be of good cheer, my Brethren ! The
King of Gath has received with reverence the letters
of our lord the King, and hath sent out his guards
to scour the country in all directions in search of the
fugitives. They may have taken refuge in the quar¬
ries. Let us proceed hither.
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
121
They again enter the Chapter-room, and make several circuits
as before. Then Zerbal says:
C. \ of G.\ Here is the entrance to a quarry; I
will explore it with Joabert and Stolkin, while the
rest keep watch without.
The Candidate, with the brethren who represent Joabert and
Stolkin, then pass through a narrow passage, so low as to compel
them to stoop, and emerge into a small room representing a quarry
in the rocks, lighted by two or three dim lamps, and in which are
two men roughly dressed and with miners' tools in their hands.
C.\ of G.\ Behold the assassins !
The two : We are lost!
The two*men throw down their tools and rush upon the three
brothers; Zerbal and the Candidate seize one, who submits, and
they take his dagger from him. The other is seized by Stolkin.
Zerbal, Stolkin and the Candidate then return though the passage,
rejoin the others, and all proceed to the ante-room, where they de¬
liver the two prisoners to the guards. In the meantime the Chapter
room is lighted and the officers seated as before. The Master of
Ceremonies o o o o o at the door, which is answered by the Grand
Hospitaller within, who opens the door and asks:
G.\ H. \ Who apply to enter here ?
M.\ of V.-. The Fifteen Knights Elect, who were
sent to the land of Gath in search of the assassins of
our deceased Grand Master.
G. \ H. \ The King hath ordered that, upon your
return, you at once appear before him. Enter.
The Candidate and the brethren enter, advance to the East, cross
their hands upon their breasts, and stand in silence.
T. \ P.m. Speak, Zerbal, hast thou succeeded?
C.'.ofGr. My lord, we have. We journeyed
hence with all speed and by the shortest route to the
122
TENTH DEGREE.
city of Gath, where, my brethren remaining without
the walls. I entered the ciiy, obtained immediate
audience of the King, and laid before him my letters.
He received them with reverence, and forthwith dis¬
patched his guards in every direction to seek the
fugitives. Returning to my companions, we has¬
tened to the quarries between Gath and Saphir,
where I suspected the murderers were concealed :
and coming to the entrance of one, I, with Joabert
and Stolkin, entered and found two men at work,
whom I recognized as the assassins. We sprang up
on them ; they defended themselves with their dag¬
gers, but we overpowered them, and, having sent
this information to King Maaka, we returned, and
have delivered the two fugitives to the guards.
T. \ P. \ Let them be chained and assigned to sep¬
arate dungeons till the morrow. If, after fair trial,
they are found guilty, then let their bodies be forth
with opened, their bowels taken thence and burned
to ashes, and scattered to the four winds of heaven,
then let them be beheaded and their heads placed
upon the West and South gates of the city as a ter¬
ror to all evil doers. Have I said well, my brother ?
8. • G. \ W. \ Most well and wisely.
T. \ P. \ Zerbal, I will reward you and your com¬
panions as you deserve. I will make you the mem¬
bers of a new order of nobility and a new degree in
Masonry to be styled the Illustrious Elu of the Fif¬
teen, which none shall receive hereafter except by
unanimous vote. Place yourselves around the altar,
my Brethren, and assume an obligation appropriate
to the new degree.
The fifteen brethren stand around the altar in a circle, placing
their hands on the cross-swords and cross-daggers which are upon
it. The other brethren encircle them, and form the roof of steel
over them. In this position the fifteen repeat the following
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
123
OBLIGATION.
I, , in the presence of the Grand Architect
of the Universe, and under these swords drawn to
protect and punish, do most solemnly swear that I
will never reveal the secrets of this degree to any
person in the world, unless it be to a person duly
authorized to receive them, and when I am duly au¬
thorized to communicate them ;
I furthermore promise and swear that I will ever¬
more punctually observe my obligations as a Knight
Elu of the Nine ; and again to the same causes as
by my obligations in that degree I did, and to the
cause of the oppressed against the oppressor every¬
where, and of toleration against fanaticism and per¬
secution, I irrevocably devote my hand, heart and
intellect, under the penalty of having my body
opened, my bowels taken from thence, burnt to ashes
and scattered to the four winds of heaven, if I will¬
fully violate this my obligation of a Knight Elect of
Fifteen. So help me, God ! and keep me steadfast
in the due performance of the same.
The swords are lowered, and one laid on the head of each of the
brethren, and the Thrice Puissant says:
T. \ P. \ I therefore declare you to be duly in¬
vested with the rank and dignity of Illustrious Elu
of the Fifteen, which degree I declare to be devoted
now and always hereafter to Liberty and Toleration ;
and I invest you with its collar, apron and jewel,
which need no explanation.
I will now instruct you in the sign, grip, word, etc.,
of this degree.
Make the motion of bringing a poinard up under the chin,
hilt upwards, and strike perpendicularly downward, as if opening
your abdomen.
N.\ Make the apprentice's # with ,|). .f. closed and the thumb
raised.
124
TENTH DEGREE.
HSFV. Close .J. .f. and raise .J. thumb of .||. 4- • I > t'ien with
that thumb close .J^. body of the other, make a transverse motion
as if cutting across his abdomen, and say: labrez.-. The other does
the same, and says: nanahk-la.'.
P.'. V LABREZ.'.
S. .V.\ nanahk-la.'.
T.\ P.'. My Brother, you will now repair to the
Grand Orator for the history of this degree.
HISTORY.
G.\ 0.\ About six months, it is said, after the
execution of the chief assassin, as detailed in the
degree of the Knights Elect of the Nine, Bengaber,
an intendant of King Solomon, in the country of
Gath, which was tributary to him, caused diligent
inquiry to be made if any person had lately taken
shelter in that region who might be supposed to have
fled from Jerusalem ; he published at the same time
an accurate description of the two traitors who had
made their escape. Shortly afterward he received
information that two persons answering the descrip¬
tion had lately arrived there and, believing them¬
selves to be perfectly secure, had begun to work in
the quarry of Ben Dekar.
As soon as Solomon was made acquainted with this
circumstance, he wrote to Maaka, King of Gath, to
assist in apprehending them, and to cause them to
be delivered to persons he should appoint to secure
them and have them brought to Jerusalem to receive
the punishment due to their crimes.
Solomon then selected fifteen Masters in whom he
could place the greatest confidence, and among whom
were those nine who had been in the cavern, and sent
them with an escort of troops in quest of the villains.
Five days were spent in the search, when Zerbal,
who bore King Solomon's letter to King Maaka, with
Stolkin and another of his companions, discovered
KNIGHTS ELECT OF FIFTEEN.
125
them cutting stone in the quarry. They immedi¬
ately seized them and, binding them in chains, con¬
ducted them to Jerusalem. On their arrival they
were imprisoned in the tower of Achizar, and the
next morning received the punishment which their
crimes deserved.
This degree, my Brethren, as you learned by your
reception and. obligation, is devoted to the same ob¬
jects as those of the Elu of the Nine ; and also to the
cause of the oppressed against the oppressor, and of
toleration against intolerance, that is to the cause of
human freedom, corporal and mental, against tyr¬
anny exercised over the soul or body.
The two assassins of Hiram Abif, whose capture
and execution are recounted in this degree, are the
symbols of those special enemies of freedom of the
body and the soul : Ambition, of which tyranny or
despotism is born ; and Fanaticism, from which
springs intolerance and persecution. To the objects
of this degree you have irrevocably consecrated your¬
self, and whenever in your presence a Chapter of this
degree is opened, you will be most impressively re¬
minded of your solemn vows here taken at our altar.
CLOSING.
The floor is offered to the Wardens, and through them to the
brethren. When silence is reported to prevail, notification is given,
and the box of fraternal assistance passed round. After which:
T.\ P.*. Brother Senior Grand Warden, what is
the hour ?
S.\ G.\ W.\ Thrice Puissant, the hour when the
Fifteen Elus returned to Jerusalem.
T.\ P. \ The hour of rest has come; cause the
brethren to assemble around the altar, that, renew¬
ing our pledges to one another, we may close this
Chapter of Illustrious Elu of the Fifteen.
126
TENTH DEGREE.
S.\ G.'. W.\ (o o o) Brethren, you will please as¬
semble around the altar, that this Chapter may be
closed in due and ancient form.
The brethren assemble around the altar, and the same ceremo¬
nies are performed as in opening. Then all return to their places.
The Thrice Puissant gives the #, and all the brethren the answer.
Then the Thrice Puissant o o o o o, and the lights in front of him
are extinguished; the Senior Grand Warden o o o o o; and the lights
in front of him are extinguished; the Junior Grand Warden o o o o o,
and the lights in front of him are extinguished; and the Thrice
Puissant says:
T.\ P. \ This Chapter of Illustrious Elu of the
Fifteen is closed.
o
ELEVENTH DEGREE.
SUBLIME KNIGHTS ELECTED.
HISTORY.
This, the third of the Elu or Elect Degrees, was
intended to emblematically illustrate the reward con¬
ferred by King Solomon upon twelve of the Knights
Elect of Fifteen who were instrumental in bringing
to justice the assassins of the Master Builder Hiram,
constituting them Governors over the twelve tribes
of Israel—morally teaching us to be earnest, honest,
and sincere, and to protect the people against illegal
impositions and exactions.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
This Lodge is also called a Chapter, and is decorated like that of
the Tenth Degree, with the same hangings.
It is lighted, however, by twelve lights, by threes, in the East,
West, North and South—each three forming an equilateral triangle.
Officers and titles same as in the Tenth Degree.
The Chapter regularly consists of twelve members only.
The apron is white, lined, edged and fringed with black, and the
flap black. In the middle of the apron is painted or embroidered a
flaming heart.
128
ELEVENTH DEGREE.
The cordon is a black ribbon, worn from right to left. Over the
heart is painted or embroidered upon it a flaming heart; and over
that the words Vincere aut Jllori.
The Jewel is a dagger, worn suspended to the sash.
The age is twelve years.
OPENING.
T.-. P.-. G.\ M.\ (o) Brother Captain of the
Guard, are all present Sublime Knights Elu ?
Captain of the'Guard satisfies himself and reports:
C.\ of G.\ Thrice Puissant, they are.
T.-. P.\ (o) Brother Captain of the Guard, I am
about to open this Chapter of Sublime Knights Elu
of the Twelve, in this place, for the dispatch of bus¬
iness. See through the proper officer that the en¬
trance to the Chapter is duly guarded.
C.\ of G.\ Brother Inside Sentinel, the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master is about to open this Chapter
of Sublime Knights Elu of the Twelve. See that the
entrance to the Chapter is duly guarded.
The Inside Sentinel goes out, returns, o o o o o—o, which is an¬
swered from without, returns to his place, and says:
1. •. 8. \ Brother Captain of the Guard, the entrance
to the Chapter is duly guarded, and we are secure
from intrusion.
C. \ of G. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, the en¬
trance to the Chapter is duly guarded, and we are
secure from intrusion.
SUBLIME KNIGHTS ELECTED. 12&
TV. P.*. Illustrious Brother Senior Grand War
den, are you a Sublime Elu of the Twelve ?
S.\ G.\ TP. \ My name will satisfy you that I am.
T. P. \ What is your name ?
S. •. O.'.Wr. Emeth.
T.P. -. What does it signify ?
S. -. G.-.W.-. A true man; just, fair, sincere, faith¬
ful, fearing God.
T.\ P. ". Where were you received a PrinceEmeth?
or Elu of the Twelve ?
8.\ G.-. W.-. In a place representing the audience
chamber of King Solomon.
T. \ Pr. How many compose a Chapter of Sublime
Elu of the Twelve ?,
8.-. G.-.W.-. Twelve or more.
T. P. ■. Give me the *
Senior Grand Warden gives it.
T. -. P.-. What does it signify ?
S. \ 0.\ W.That my faith cannot be shaken, and
my confidence is in God.
T.-. P.\ What are the characteristics of an Elra
of the Twelve %
S.\ Or.W.-. He is frank, fair, sincere, straight¬
forward, reliable, honest and upright, and thus is
Emeth, a true man.
T. \ P. -. Who were the first Elus of the Twelve £
9
130
ELEVENTH DEGREE.
G.m.W.\ Those whom King Solomon made
Princes and Governors in Israel.
T. \ P. \ What were their duties ?
S. \ G. \ W. \ To provide supplies for the King and
for his household, each one his month in the year ;
to see that the taxes were fully assessed ; to super¬
intend the collection of the revenue, and to protect
the people against the rapacity and extortion of the
tax-gatherers and farmers of the revenue.
T.\ P.\ What are now the duties of an Elu of the
Twelve ?
Sr. G.'.W.'. To be earnest, honest and sincere;
to protect the people against illegal impositions and
exactions ; to guard their political rights, and to en¬
deavor to make it lawful that those shall bear the
foordens who reap the benefits of the government.
T. \ P. *. What is the age of an Elu of the Twelve ?
;8. \ G.\ TV.'. Twelve years complete.
T. \ P. \ What is the hour ?
8.m. G.\ TP.*. The sixth hour of the day.
T. \ P.\ Cause, then, the Knights to assemble
around the altar that, renewing our pledges to each
other, we may open this Chapter of Sublime Elu of
i;he Twelve.
S.\ G.-.W.-. (ooo) Knights, assemble around the
altar, that renewing our pledges to each other, we
may open this Chapter of Sublime Elu of the Twelve.
The brethren form a circle around the altar, with swords drawn,
^elevating which at an angle of forty-five degrees, and placing the
joints together in the centre, they repeat as follows:
G. *. 0.-. That the people among whom we live may
t>e protected against illegal impositions.
SUBLIME KNIGHTS ELECTED.
131
J.\ . TP.-. That they may be secured in the en¬
joyment of their political and social rights.
S.\ G.\ W.\ That the burdens of the government
may be equally apportioned.
All: We are and will forever remain united.
G.\ 0.\ We will be true unto all men.
J. \ G.\ W. \ We will be frank, honest and sincere
in all things.
S. \ G. *. W. •. We will be earnest in doing that
which it may be our duty to do.
T.\ P. \ No man shall repent that he has relied
upon our word.
All: And to this we pledge ourselves as Masons
and as true men.
The brethren return to their places. The Thrice Puissant says:
T.\ P.\ Together, brethren!
All give the #
The Thrice Puissant oooooooooooo
Senior Grand Warden oooooooooooo
Junior Grand Warden oooooooooooo
T.P. -. This Chapter of Sublime Elu of the Twelve
is duly opened.
RECEPTION.
The Candidate represents Ben-Deka, who discovered where the
two murderers had taken refuge. He wears the clothing and jewel
of an Elu of the Fifteen, and is received in the ante-room by the
Master of Ceremonies, conducted into the Chapter, and requested
to be seated. Immediately afterward the Captain of the Guard en¬
ters, approaches the East and makes his obeisance to King Solo¬
mon, who asks:
132
ELEVENTH DEGREE.
T.\ P.m. Welcome, Zerbal. Are the demands of
justice satisfied 1
C.\ of G.'. They are, my lord. According to the
sentence of the court, the three assassins of the Mas¬
ter have been executed, confessing their guilt in the
hearing of all the people ; and their heads, struck off
after life was extinct, have been set over the East,
West and South gates of the city.
T. \ P. \ It is well; justice is satisfied; the majesty
of the law is vindicated, and the land purified of the
innocent blood shed in the Temple. Henceforward
let our deceased brother and revered Master be unto
us, and unto all Masons, the symbol of Liberty, In¬
telligence and Truth ; and his assassins, of Tyranny,
Ignorance and Intolerance ; that the murder and its
punishment may teach Masons in all ages, not only
the great moral lesson that God will not permit crime
to go unpunished, and that justice will surely over¬
take the guilty, and the offence be unerringly fol¬
lowed by its consequences ; but this other also : that
the freedom of the State can only be attained and
perpetuated by instructing the people, by following
ignorance into its darkest dens, and there smiting it
mortally, without mercy. My Brethren, the affairs
of the living, too long neglected in our sorrow for the
dead and our pursuit of the assassins, now demand
our attention. Many complaints have accumulated,
and much wrong and oppression is charged to exist.
Our Secretary will make known to you the nature of
these complaints.
Sec.-. Most Puissant King Solomon, from all por¬
tions of the realm there have come up complaints in
regard to the collection of the revenue. Tbose who
collect the tribute compound with the great and
wealthy for bribes, and levy the deficiency on the
poor. They practice extortion, and wring from the
people far more than they pay into thy treasury.
Their accounts are in arrears and unsettled ; the con-
SUBLIME KNIGHTS ELECTED.
133
tributions for the service of the Temple remain un¬
paid, and the farmers of the revenue grow rich, while
thine army is ill-supplied with food.
T.\ P.-. This must no longer be so. But how
shall the evil be remedied ? My Brother Khurum,
aid me with thy counsel and advice.
S.\ Do not any longer farm out thy rev¬
enues, nor have thy household, thine army and the
Temple supplied by contributions. Let thine own
officers collect the tribute for a fixed compensation.
Place in each province of the kingdom thy represent¬
ative, to superintend the collection of the tribute,
and let these in turn account to certain officers here
and they to thee. Thus thou wilt protect thy people
and thy revenues be certain and abundant.
T.*. P.\ I thank thee, my brother, for thy coun¬
sel. Whom shall we set over this work, my Brother
Adoniram ?
J.-. G.\ W.\ My lord the King, thou hast fifteen
Knight Elus, whose merits entitle them to promo¬
tion and great honor. They will serve thee faithfully
and wisely.
T. P.\ Thou hast well said. I will create twelve
of the fifteen Knight Elus to be Governors in Israel,
with the title of Princes Emeth, giving them in charge
the collection of the revenues of my realm, and su¬
preme control, each in his province, as my viceger¬
ents or immediate representatives. They shall, also,
when assembled, constitute a Chapter, and a new de¬
gree in Masonry be thus created, called the Sublime
Elu of the Twelve. And, in order that no one may
be offended or mortified, let the twelve be selected by
lot. Brother Secretary, write the names of the fif¬
teen, each on a separate slip of parchment, and let
the Master of Ceremonies place them in an urn.
This is done, and the Thfrice Puissant says:
134
ELEVENTH DEGREE.
T.\ P. \ Brother Master of Ceremonies, receive
the urn and convey it to Illustrious Brother Adoni-
ram, in the West. Brother Orator, repair to the
West and assist Illustrious Brother Adoniram ; and
as he draws the lots, do thou aloud read the names,
until twelve are drawn. Brother Secretary, record,
the names.
The Orator goes to the West. The Junior Grand Warden draws
in succession twelve slips from the urn, and hands each, as he draws
it, to the Orator, and the Secretary writes it down.
T.-. P.\ Let those whose names have been drawn
approach the East.
The Candidate and eleven brethren repair to the East and stand
in front of the Thrice Puissant, who says:
T. \ P. '. My Brethren, are you willing to take
upon yourselves the duties of Governors in Israel
and chiefs over the tribute, with the resolution to
discharge those duties faithfully and impartially ?
All: We are.
T. \ P.'. Will you promise to deal honestly and
fairly by all men ; to know no distinctions of per¬
sons, and to see that none are subjected to exaction,
extortion or unjust impositions or burdens?
All: We will.
T. *. P. \ Let, then, our Secretary write the decree
by which we appoint these twelve to be Governors in
Israel and chiefs over the tribute ; and we give to
them supreme control over the revenue of their prov¬
inces, with power to judge and punish all who are
guilty of extortion and oppression; making them our
vicegerents, each in his province, to be obeyed ac¬
cordingly. Go, therefore, my brethren, and at the
altar assume the obligation appropriate to the rank
and dignity of Princes Emeth and rulers over the
tribute.
SUBLIME KNIGHTS ELECTED.
135
The Candidate and the eleven brothers surround the altar, each
placing his left hand on the cross-swords and raising his right toward
heaven. The other brethren encircle them, and form the arcfo o
steel over their heads, and those in the inner circle repeat the fol¬
lowing
OBLIGATION.
I, , in the presence of the Grand Architect
of the Universe, and under these swords raised to
protect and punish, do hereby and hereon most sol¬
emnly and sincerely promise and swear that I will
never reveal the secrets of this degree of Sublime Elu
of the Twelve to any person in the world, unless to
one duly authorized to receive them, and when I am
legally authorized to communicate them ;
I furthermore promise and swear that I will everr
to the best of my ability, and with all my power,
protect the people against illegal impositions and
exactions, and cause the burdens of government to
be equally distributed in proportion to the benefits
received tnerefrom ;
I furthermore promise and swear that I will be
forever true to the just cause in which I may engage;
frank and sincere in all things ; earnest in doing
what it is right for me to do ; and firm in adhering;
to my purposes and promises, so that those who rely
upon me may not be disappointed ;
All of which I do most sincerely promise and sol¬
emnly swear, binding myself under no less penalty
than that of having my right and left breast tor®
open, and being deemed by all men false to my word,
faithless and dishonorable ;
So help me, God, and keep me steadfast in the due
performance of the same. Amen !
T.P.'. Arise, Princes Emeth. and Governors in
Israel, and receive the sign, grip, and word of this
degree.
Cross the arms upon the chest, with the fingers clinched and
thumbs raised.
136
ELEVENTH DEGREE.
ja. pp.'. Each presents to .J. other .j. thumb of .||. 4* • I*
fingers closed; one takes the thumb of the other, and they turn the
wrist .//. times, saying, alternately, as they do so, htireb.-. re-
©en.*; htimolehs.
Je. Jfto'.'. Take .J. 4. . (.. of a -3r. tap .//. times with your thumb
on the phalange of the middle finger.
P.*. V.\ h T e m e.\
S.\ V.\ i a n o d a.-.
INVESTITURE.
T. \ P. \ I invest you, my Brother, with the apron,
collar and jewels of this degree ; remember that you
wear them as the successor and representative of a
Sublime Elu or Prince Emeth of the Court of King
Solomon ; and that your conduct and conversation
must be such as becomes one invested with so high
an honor. The flaming hearts are symbols of that
zeal and devotedness that ought to animate you, and
the motto is your pledge that you will rather die
than betray the cause of the people, or be overcome
through your own fear or fault.
You will now go to the Grand Orator for the his¬
tory of this degree.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate to the Grand
Orator.
HISTORY.
G. \ 0. \ The history of this degree is brief. After
punishment had been inflicted on the murderers men¬
tioned in the preceding degrees, King Solomon in¬
stituted this degree, both as a recompense for the
zeal and constancy of the Elus of the Fifteen who
had assisted him to discover them, and also to en¬
able him to elevate other deserving brethren, from
the lower degrees to those of places in the higher,
which had been vacated by their promotion. Twelve
■of these fifteen he elected Sublime Knights, and
SUBLIME KNIGHTS ELECTED.
137
made the selection by ballot, that he might give none
offence, putting the names of the whole in an urn.
The first twelve that were drawn he formed into a
Chapter, and gave them command over the twelve
tribes. He gave them the name of Emeth, which is
a Hebrew word signifying a true man. He exhibited
to them the precious things which were deposited in
the tabernacle. These, my brother, are the chief ob¬
jects delineated on our tracing-board, and these you
should make the constant subject of your reflections.
These last three degrees constitute what are called
the "Elu Degrees" of the Ancient and Accepted
Rite. They elucidate a particular part of the legen¬
dary history of Freemasonry, and constitute a pe¬
culiar system which is necessarily contained in every
rite. In the York Kite, the Elus are combined into
one, and form a part of the third degree. In the
French Rite, they constitute a separate degree, called
"Elu," and forming the fourth degree of that rite.
In some of the other systems of Masonry the Elus
have been divided into numerous degrees, but their
purport is always the same—to give details of the
detection and punishment, by chosen or elected breth¬
ren, of those murderers who first stained the escut¬
cheon of "Freemasonry by an atrocious crime.
The Master of Ceremonies seats the Candidate.
CLOSING.
The floor is offered, and the box of fraternal assistance passed
round, as in other degrees, after which:
T.\ P.-. Brother Senior Grand Warden, what is
the hour 1
8. ■. G. \ W. \ The twelfth hour of the day, Thrice
Puissant.
T.\ P.\ Then it is time to close this Chapter of
Sublime Elus of the Twelve. Cause the Princes to
138 ELEVENTH DEGREE.
assemble around the altar, that, renewing our pledges
to each other, we may close this Chapter in due and
ancient form.
S. \ O.-.W.'. (o o o) Brethren, assemble around
the altar, and assist the Thrice Puissant Grand Mas¬
ter to close this Chapter in due and ancient form.
The brethren form a circle around the altar, with swords drawn,
elevating which at an angle of forty-five degrees, and placing the
points together in the centre, they repeat as follows:
G. \ 0.-. That the people among whom we live may
be protected against illegal impositions.
J.\ G.\ TP.*. That they may be secured in the en¬
joyment of their political and social rights.
8.-. G.'. TP.*. That the burdens of the government
may be equally apportioned.
All: We are and will forever remain united.
G. *. Or. We will be true unto all men.
J. \ G. •. W.We will be frank, honest and sincere
in all things.
S.\ G. *. W. \ We will be earnest in doing that
which it may be our duty to do.
T.\ P.\ No man shall repent that he has relied
upon our word.
All: And to this we pledge ourselves as Masons
and as true men.
The brethren return to their places. The Thrice Puissant says:
T.'. P.\ Behold the East, my brethren.
All give the *. The Thrice Puissant, Senior Grand Warden and
Junior Grand Warden rap 12, in succession; and the Thrice Puissant
says:
T. \ P. '. My Brethren, this Chapter is closed, (o)
TWELFTH DEGREE.
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
HISTORY.
The degree of Grand Master Architect was estab¬
lished as a school of instruction for the more ad¬
vanced workmen of the Temple, to assure uniformity
in work, vigor in its prosecution, and to reward those
more eminent in science and skill. The degree par¬
takes of a scientific nature, in which the rules of ar¬
chitecture and the connection of the liberal arts with
Masonry are dwelt upon, and portions of the Fellow
Craft or Companion degree are amplified and exten¬
sively illustrated. This degree requires of the neo¬
phyte that he be thoroughly qualified, intellectually
and morally, to be admitted, and instructs him that
virtue is as necessary as talents to every Grand Mas¬
ter Architect.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, ETC.
Bodies of this degree are styled Chapters.
The hangings are white, and strewed with crimson flames.
Behind the Master, in the East, are five columns, each of a differ¬
ent order of architecture: Tuscan, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian and Com¬
posite.
140
TWELFTH DEGREE.
In the North is painted the North Star, and a little below it the
seven stars of the Great Bear. In the East, behind the columns, is
a luminous Star, representing Jupiter, rising in the East as the morn¬
ing star.
Upon the altar, which is in the centre of the room and covered
with a white cloth of linen, are the Great Lights, the Book of Con¬
stitutions, and on it all the contents of a case of mathematical in¬
struments.
The Chapter is lighted by three Great Lights, one in the East, one
in the West and one in the South.
Over the columns, in the East, hangs a Triangle, enclosing the
word
The officers and titles are the same as in the three preceding de¬
grees.
The Apron is white, lined and bordered with blue, and fringed
with gold. On it are painted or embroidered a protractor on the
flap and in the middle a plain scale, a sector and the compasses, so
arranged as to form a triangle.
The Cordon is a broad blue watered ribbon, worn from the left
shoulder to the right hip.
The Jewel is a triangle of gold; on each angle, on one side, is a
star enclosed in a semicircle. In the centre, on the same side, is an
equilateral triangle, formed by arcs of circles, in the centre of which
is the letter x. On the reverse side are five columns, of the differ¬
ent orders of architecture, with the initial letter of the proper order
below each, in old English letters, arranged from left to right, Tus¬
can, Doric, Ionic, Corinthian and Composite. Above these columns
are a sector and a slide rule; below them, the three kinds of com¬
passes, the plain scale and parallel ruler; and between the second
and third, and third and fourth columns, are the letters 1 2
(R.\ B.\)
In front of each brother is a small table, and on it a case of instru¬
ments, with paper and other articles for drafting.
The age of a Grand Master Architect is the square of HxV, or
FV years.
Battery: o o o o o—o o
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
141
OPENING.
T.P. \ (o—o o) Illustrious Captain of the Guard,
are all present Grand Master Architects ?
Captain of the Guard satisfies himself and reports:
C.\ of <?.*. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, all
present are Grand Master Architects.
T.P.-. Brother Captain of the Guard, our first
care is to see that we are duly tiled and secure from
intrusion. Attend to that duty, and inform the
Grand Tiler that I am about to open a Chapter of
Grand Master Architects here, and direct him to tile
accordingly.
The Captain of the Guard goes out and instructs the Sentinel,
returns, and raps o o o o o—o o, which is answered from without,
and reports:
O. \ of G. •. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, we are
duly tiled.
T.\ P.\ How \
C. \ of G.'. By a Brother Grand Master Architect
without, armed and resolute.
T. \ P. \ His duty there ?
C. •. of G. \ To see that none enter but such as are
qualified and have your permission.
T. \ P. \ Brethren, assume your stations. Illus¬
trious Senior Grand Warden, are you a Grand Mas¬
ter Architect \
142
TWELFTH DEGREE.
8.-. G.'. W.'. I have studied mathematics, and am
familiar with the instruments used by a Grand Mas
ter Architect.
2V. P.'. What are those instruments?
S.m. G.'.W.'. The different compasses, the parallel
ruler, the protractor, the plain scale, the sector and
the slide rule.
T.\ P.*. What lesson do the different compasses
teach us ?
8.G. \ W.That life and time are but a point in
the centre of eternity ; while the circle of God's at¬
tributes is infinite.
T. P.\ What lesson does the parallel ruler teach
us ?
Sr. G.-.W.-. That we should be consistent, firm,
unwavering, and of that equanimity of mind and
temper which befits a Mason.
T.-. P.'. What lesson does the protractor teach
us ?
S. \ G.-. W.\ That we should be upright and sin¬
cere, frank in all our dealings, moderate in our pro¬
fessions, and exact and punctual in performance.
T.\ P.-. What lesson does the plain scale teach us?
8.'. G.'.W.'. That we do not live only for our¬
selves, but for others, so as in just and proper meas¬
ure to serve ourselves, our families, our friends, our
neighbors, and our country.
T. \ P. \ What lesson does the sector teach us ?
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
143
8.-. G.-.W.-. That we should multiply our good
deeds, divide that which we can spare of our sub¬
stance among those who need it more than we, and
extract the good that is intended to benefit and bless
us from the reverses and calamities of life.
T.-. P.-. What lesson does the slide rule teach us ?
S. \ G.-.W.-. That we should strive to grasp and
solve the great problem presented by the Universe,
and involved in our existence ; to know and under¬
stand the lofty truths of Philosophy, and to com¬
municate freely of our knowledge unto others.
T.-. P.-. Where were you received and made a
Grand Master Architect ?
8.-. G.\ W.-. In a place representing the Chamber
of Designs, assigned to the Master Khurum in King
Solomon's Temple.
T. \ P.\ At what hour %
8.-. G.\ W.\ When the Day Star had risen in the
East and the North Star looked down upon the seven
stars that circle round him.
T. -. P. \ Of what is the North Star a symbol to a
Mason ?
8.-. G.\ W.\ Of Truth, the pole star that guides
Masons over the stormy seas of time.
T.\ P.'. Of what are the seven stars the symbol?
8.-. G.-.W.-. Of a Mason's loyalty to Truth and
Right, to his Order and to his country.
T.-. P.-. What do the five columns in the East
teach us ?
144
TWELFTH DEGREE.
S.\ Or. W.-. That Masonry, in all its orders and
degrees, like architecture, is one ; the same in all
countries and in all ages.
T.\ P.'. What does the Day Star signify, rising
in the East, behind the columns ?
8. \ Or. Wr. That the daylight of Perfection ap¬
proaches.
T.Pr. What is the hour ?
S. \ Or. Wr. The Star has risen.
T.-. P.\ What is the age of a Grand Master Arch¬
itect ?
8.-. Or. W. \ V times the square of H, or FV years.
T.\ P.*. The hour of work has arrived. Give no¬
tice to the Grand Masters that I am about to open a
Chapter of Grand Master Architects, that they may
aid me in so doing.
8. \ O.-.W. •. Brethren in the North, the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master is about to open a Chapter
of Grand Master Architects, and desires your assist¬
ance, since the hour of work has arrived.
J.-. G.'.W.'. Brethren in the South, the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master is about to open a Chapter
of Grand Master Architects, and desires your assist¬
ance, since the hour of work has arrived.
T.\ P. -. The *, my brethren.
All give the #. Then the Thrice Puissant Grand Master, the
Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden rap in succession
VW, and all the brethren the same with their hands; and the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master savs:
T. *. P.m. I declare this Chapter duly opened, (o)
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
145
RECEPTION.
The Candidate, in the clothing and with the jewel of the nth de¬
gree, is received in the ante-room by the Grand Master of Ceremo¬
nies, who examines him in the work of that degree, and in its prin¬
ciples, and, if he finds him well informed, conducts him to the door
of the Chapter and raps VW. The Captain of the Guard opens the
door, and asks:
C. \ of G.\ Who comes here, and what is his desire \
M. \ of C. \ A Sublime Knight Elu of the Twelve,
who desires to receive the degree of Grand Master
Architect.
C. \ of G.Has he been true to the pledges which,
as a Knight Elu of the Nine, Illustrious Elu of the
Fifteen, and Sublime Elu of the Twelve, he has made
to his brethren ?
M.\ of C.\ He has.
C.\ of G.\ Why does he desire to receive the de¬
gree of Grand Master Architect %
M.\ of 0.'. That he may increase in knowledge
and be better fitted to discharge the duties of a good
Mason.
C.\ of G.\ Let him wait with patience until the
Thrice Puissant Grand Master is informed of his re¬
quest, and his answer returned.
The Cap'ain of the Guard closes the door and advances to the
East, and the same questions are there asked, and like answers re¬
turned, as at the door.
T. P.\ Let him enter and be received in due form.
The Captain of the Guard returns to the door, opens it, and says:
C.\ of G.\ Let him enter and be received in due
form.
IO
146
TWELFTH DEGREE.
The Candidate enters, conducted by the Grand Master of Cere¬
monies, and is led three times around the Chapter, while the Junior
Grand Warden reads as follows:
J.\ G.\ W.-. (ist circuit.) A wise man will hear and
increase in learning, and a man of understanding
will attain unto wise counsels ; to understand a prov¬
erb, and the interpretation ; the word of the sages
and their obscure sayings.
J.\ O.'.W(2d circuit.) Wisdom preventeth them
that covet her, so that she first showeth herself unto
them. He that awaketh to seek her shall not labor ;
for he shall find her sitting at his door. The Lord
giveth wisdom ; out of his mouth come knowledge
and understanding.
J.-. (3dcircuit.) When wisdom entereth in¬
to thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy
soul, discretion shall preserve thee, and understand¬
ing shall keep thee, and thou shalt understand right¬
eousness, judgment, equity and every good path.
At the end of the third circuit, the Candidate is halted in front of
the Junior Grand Warden, who asks:
J.\ G.-.W.'. Whom bring you hither, Venerable
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies ?
M.\ of C.-. A Prince Emeth, who desires to ob¬
tain the degree of Grand Master Architect.
J.-. G.\ W.\ Why does he desire to receive this
degree ?
31.-. of C.\ That he may increase in knowledge
and be the better fitted to discharge the duties of a
good Mason.
J.\ G.'.Wr. My Brother, dost thou well remem¬
ber thy pledges to thy brethren, made by thee as a
Knight Elu of the Nine ?
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
147
Can. I do.
J. \ G. *. IF.*. Hast thou endeavored faithfully to
fulfill these pledges ?
Can. I have.
J. \ (9. •. TF. \ Then thou hast my permission to pas®
on for further examination—and may thy search for
wisdom prove successful.
The Candidate is then conducted twice more around the room*
while the Senior Grand Warden reads as follows:
S.\ G.-.W.'. (4th circuit.) I wished, and understand¬
ing was given me ; and I called upon God and the
spirit of wisdom came upon me, and I preferred her
before kingdoms and thrones, and esteemed riches-
nothing in comparison to her. The Lord by wisdom
hath founded the earth ; by understanding hath he
established the heavens.
S.\ G.-.W.'. (5th circuit.) Get wisdom! Exalt her
and she shall promote thee ; she shall bring thee to
honor, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give
to thy head an ornament of grace ; a crown of glory
shall she deliver to thee.
At the end of the fifth circuit, the Candidate is halted in front of
the Senior Grand Warden, who asks:
S.\ G.\ TP. \ AVhom bring you hither, Venerable
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies ?
M. •. of C.A Prince Emeth, who desires to obtaia
the degree of Grand Master Architect.
S.\ G.-. W.'. Why does he desire to receive this
degree ?
M.of C.\ That he may increase in knowledge-
and be the better fitted to discharge the duties of a
good Mason.
148
TWELFTH DEGREE.
S.-. G.-.W.-. My Brother, dost thou well remem¬
ber thy pledges to thy brethren, made by thee as ail
Illustrious Elu of the Fifteen ?
Can, I do.
S.\ G.-.W.-. Hast thou endeavored faithfully to
fulfill these pledges ?
Can. I have.
8.'. G. \ IF. \ Then thou hast my permission to pass
on for further examination—and may thy search for
wisdom prove successful.
The Candidate is then conducted twice more around the r<jom;
while the Thrice Puissant Grand Master reads:
T.-. P.-. (6th circuit.) No evil can overcome wisdom.
She glorifieth her nobility by being conversant with
<xod, and the Lord of all things lovetli her. For it
is she that teachetli knowledge of God and is the ex¬
pounder of His works.
T.\ P.'. (7th circuit.) She knoweth things past, and
judgeth things to come. She knoweth the subtilties
of speeches, and the solutions of arguments ; she
knoweth signs and wonders before they be done, and
the events of times and ages. By means of her we
shall have immortality.
At the end of the seventh circuit, the Candidate is halted in front
of the Thrice Puissant Grand Master, who asks:
T. -.P.-. Whom bring you hither, Venerable Brother
Grand Master of Ceremonies ?
M. \ of C. \ A Prince Emeth, who desires to obtain
the degree of Grand Master Architect.
T. \ Pr. Why does he desire to receive this de¬
gree %
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT. 149
31.'. of G'.\ That he may increase in knowledge
and be the better fitted to discharge the duties of a
good Mason.
T.\ P.\ My Brother, dost thou well remember
thy pledges to thy brethren, made by thee as a Sub¬
lime Elu of the Twelve ?
Can. I do.
T.\ P.\ It is well. Of what art thou in search ?
Can. Of wisdom.
T. •. P. -. It is the true Masonic Light. He who
obeys the Masonic law shall find it. The degree
which you seek was first conferred upon Adoniram,
the son of Abda, when he was appointed Chief Arch¬
itect of the Temple, and as such the successor of the
Master Khurum, after having been for a time the
chief of the five Intendants of the Building, and
after his skill and science as an architect had been
thoroughly tested, and he found to be superior to
the other four Intendants. It was but the ceremony
of his investiture with that office. Afterward it be¬
came an honorary degree, conferred first upon the
other Intendants, and then upon the Elus, as a mark
of honor and distinction. As he advanced the ancient
Freemason ceased to work with the instruments of
the laborer, the square, the level, the plumb and the
trowel, and assumed those of the Architect and Geo¬
metrician. As he advanced, also, he passed from
that branch of geometry and mathematics which oc¬
cupies itself with the earth, its surface and the things
that belong to it, with right lines and angles, and all
the figures formed thereby, to the mathematics of
the heavens and the spheres. We no longer occupy
ourselves with geometry and mathematics as sciences,
nor expect of our initiate a knowledge of their prob¬
lems, or even of their terms. To us the instruments
of the geometrician and all the figures, plain and
250
TWELFTH DEGREE.
■spherical, drawn by tliese instruments, have a sym¬
bolical meaning. By means of the morality of Ma¬
sonry, we advance toward its philosophy, and every
degree is a step in that direction. If you would suc¬
ceed to the rank held by Adoniram, you must assume
the obligation which it imposes. Are you willing to
do so ?
(Jan. I am.
T. P.Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, you
will conduct this Brother to the altar of Masonry,
and place him in proper position to assume the obli¬
gation of a Grand Master Architect.
The Candidate is conducted to the altar and made to kneel on
both knees, with his hands upon the Hoi)' Bible and the instruments
which are upon it, in which position he repeats the following
OBLIGATION.
I, , in the presence of the Grand Architect
of the Universe, and of this Chapter of Grand Mas¬
ter Architects, do solemnly promise and swear that
I will never reveal the secrets of this degree to any
person in the world, unless to one duly authorized
to receive them, and when I am legally authorized to
communicate them;
I furthermore promise and swear that during all
my life, within the Chapter and without, I will earn¬
estly endeavor to conduct myself in a manner suit¬
able to the character of one who aspires to be the
successor of those men, illustrious for their virtues,
who were the chief Architects of the Temple ;
I furthermore promise and swear that I will strive
to practice all the virtues of which the instruments
before me are the symbols, as they shall be hereafter
explained to me, so far as human infirmity will allow;
All which I do most solemnly promise and swear,
under the penalty of being abandoned by my friends
and hunted by my enemies, and of forfeiting all claim
to assistance in danger, comfort in calamity and sup-
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
151
port in difficulty, from any Mason in the world, and
that my left hand may be severed in twain if I should
ever be guilty of intentionally violating this my ob¬
ligation of a Grand Master Architect. So help me,
God, and keep me steadfast in the due performance
of the same.
T.\ P.\ By the authority in me vested, as the
successor of Adoniram, the son of Abda, and Khu-
rum Abai, our Grand Master, I declare you to be duly
elevated to the degree of Grand Master Architect.
Arise and receive the sign, grip, and words of this
degree.
Lay .||. 4- • I - in the middle of.||. ,f. Pause a moment, and
then close the fingers of ,]|. 4- • I - and with the thumb seem to trace
a plan or figure in the palm of .|J. .f., looking at the Grand Master
as if receiving directions from him.
P. #.\ Make the motion as ifspliting ,||. .f. . and then drw. .|J.
plan.
Interlace .||. .fs. of.|J. 4- hands and each places his .f. . [.
On his hip.
P.". V.'. NIYANAB-BA R.\
S.'. V.'. I A N O D A.*.
INVESTITURE.
T.\ P.*. I invest you with the apron, collar and
jewel of this degree. Their colors, white and blue,
will remind you of what is commonly called sym¬
bolic Masonry, or the Blue degrees ; the foundation,
but not the completion and perfection of Masonry.
Upon the apron and jewel you see the five orders of
Architecture, and the instruments of a Grand Mas¬
ter Architect, the symbolic meaning of which you
have yet to learn. I now present you with the in¬
struments with which a Grand Master Architect
works. Listen and you shall learn their uses, and
of what they are the symbols to us in this degree.
152
TWELFTH DEGREE.
The Thrice Puissant Grand Master and Senior Grand Warden
repeat the questions and answers as in the opening ceremony, as
as follows, the Candidate remaining standing:
T.\ P.'. Illustrious Senior Grand Warden, what
are the instruments used by a Grand Master Archi¬
tect ?
8.G. \ W. \ The different compasses, the parallel
ruler, the protractor, the plain scale, the sector and
the slide rule.
T.\ P.\ What lesson do the different compasses
teach us ?
8.G. \ W.\ That life and time are but a point in
the centre of eternity ; while the circle of God's at¬
tributes is infinite.
T. \ P.Whatlessondoestheparallelrulerteachus?
8.-. G.-.W.". That we should be firm, consistent,
unwavering and of that equanimity of mind and tem¬
per which befits a Mason.
T.\ PWhat lesson does the protractor teach us ?
8.'. G.\ W.\ That we should be upright and sin¬
cere, frank in all our dealings, moderate in our pro¬
fessions and exact and punctual in performance.
T. *. P. \ What lesson does the plain scale teach us ?
8.-. G.-.W.-. That we do not live only for our¬
selves, but for others, so as in just and proper meas¬
ure to serve ourselves, our families, our friends, our
neighbors and our country.
T.'. P.-. What lesson does the sector teach us ?
8.-. G.-.W.'. That we should multiply our good
deeds, divide that which we can spare of our sub¬
stance among those who need it more than we, and
extract the good that is intended to benefit and bless
us from the reverses and calamities of life.
GRAND MASTER ARCHITECT.
153
T. \ P.\ What lesson does the slide rule teach us %
S.-. G. \W. \ That we should strive to grasp and
solve the great problem presented by the Universe,
and involved in our existence ; to know and under¬
stand the lofty truths of Philosophy, and to com¬
municate freely of our knowledge unto others.
T. \ P.'. [Addressing the candidate.] Such are the in¬
struments of a Grand Master Architect, and such the
lessons which they teach us. Forget not that you
have solemnly sworn to practice all the virtues which
they symbolically teach ; for thus only can you de¬
serve, how proudly soever you may wear the title of
a Grand Master Architect.
You will now go to the Grand Orator for the his¬
tory of this degree.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate to the Grand
Orator.
HISTORY.
G. \ Or. The history of this degree is brief, as its
ceremonies are simple. After the murderers of the
Master Khurum Abai had been discovered, appre¬
hended, tried and punished ; his monument and mau¬
soleum completed, and the matters which concerned
the revenue of the realm provided for, King Solomon,
to assure uniformity of work and vigor in its prose¬
cution, and to reward the superior and eminent sci¬
ence and skill of Adoniram, the son of Abda, ap¬
pointed him to be Chief Architect of the Temple,
with the title of Grand Master Architect, and in¬
vested him with that office, as sole successor and
representative of the deceased Master Khurum Abai,
and at the same time made him Grand Master of Ma¬
sons and the Masonic peer of himself and King Khu¬
rum of Tsur. Afterward the title was conferred up¬
on other Princes of the Jewish court as an honora¬
rium, and thus the degree became established. You
have heard what are the lessons taught by the work-
154
TWELFTH DEGREE.
ing instruments of a Grand Master Architect, and I
shall not now enlarge upon those lessons. The great
duties which they inculcate demand much of us, and
take for granted our capacity to perform them fully.
We hope that we are not mistaken in believing that
you possess that capacity, and in expecting that you
will be always found equal to the task which you
have thus imposed upon yourself.
CLOSING.
The floor is offered, and the box of fraternal assistance passed
around, as in the preceding degrees, after which
T.\ P.-. (o—o o) Illustrious Senior Grand War¬
den, what is the hour?
S. \ G.\ W.\ The sun has set and the evening star
has risen.
T.•. P. \ The hour of rest has arrived. Give no¬
tice to the Grand Masters that I am about to close
this Chapter of Grand Master Architects, that they
may aid me in so doing.
>Sy. \ G.'.Wr. Brethren in the North, the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master is about to close this Chapter
of Grand Master Architects, and desires your as¬
sistance, since the hour of rest has arrived.
J.\ G.'.Wr. Brethren in the South, the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master is about to close this Chapter
of Grand Master Architects, and desires your as¬
sistance, since the hour of rest has arrived.
T.P.-. The *, my Brethren.
All give the #. Then the Thrice Puissant Grand Master, the
Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden rap in succession
VW, and all the brethren the same with their hands, and the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master says:
T. P.'. This Chapter is duly closed, (o)
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
ROYAL ARCH OE ENOCH;
Or, Knights of the Ninth Arch.
HISTORY.
This is an important and interesting degree in the
Ineffable Series. Matters that have only been ob¬
scurely hinted at and darkly shadowed forth in the
preceding degrees, in this, rapidly culminate toward
the development of the grand mystery of Masonry,
fully explained in the sublime degree of Perfection.
The dark clouds and mists that have hitherto veiled
the sacred mysteries now begin to be dispelled ; the
glorious dawn illumines the East with its bright ef¬
fulgence, and its rays penetrate into dark and hidden
places.
This degree is closely connected with that which
follows it, and forms a beautiful, solemn and impres¬
sive introductory to it. The Lecture is full, and of
great interest.—Carson.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
This Chapter of Royal Arch of Solomon represents the Audience
Chamber of King Solomon. The hangings are alternately red and
white.
King Solomon is seated in the East.
156
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
Hiram, King of Tyre, is also in the East, on the left of King Sol¬
omon.
Senior Warden represents Gibulum, and is seated in the West.
Junior Warden represents Stolkin, and is seated in the South.
Treasurer (who represents Joabert), Secretary, Master of Ceremo¬
nies, Captain of the Guard, and other officers, stationed as in a
Lodge of Perfection.
All Officers and Companions, except the Kings, clothed in black,
with apron, collar and jewel of this degree or of their particular
office.
King Solomon wears a yellow robe, purple chasuble, lined with
blue, sleeves reaching the elbows, and rich purple sash, with jewel.
King Hiram of Tyre wears a purple robe, yellow chasuble, and
rich purple sash, with jewel.
Apron:—Purple silk or velvet, bordered with white; in the centre
of the area the Enochian delta, with rays.
Collar:—Purple silk or velvet, and suspended to it the
Jewel:—A gold triangle, on which is engraved the delta of Enoch,
with rays. On the obverse side of the jewel is a representation of
the first three recipients of this degree, two of them lowering the
third into the subterranean vault. Around this device, the initials
of the words "Regnante Sapientissimo Salamone, Gibulum, Joaberl
et Stolkin invenerunt pertisissimum Artificum ihesaurum sttbfer rui-
nas Enoch, Anno Mundi, 2995."
Age:—7 times 9=63.
Lights:—Three in the East, three in the West, and three in the
South.
Battery:—o o 0—0 o 0—0 o o
There should be a separate apartment, without apparent door or
window, opening overhead large enough for a man to pass through;
the distance from the top to the bottom as great as possible, and
floor and walls covered with ruins. The opening to it is covered
with a trap-door, representing a flat stone with an iron ring to it.
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
157
There should be no light in this chamber of hewn rock, except when
the pedestal and cubical stone are uncovered. The pedestal is tri¬
angular, and apparently of white marble, but of some transparent
substance, and hollow, so that light may shine through it. Upon it
is a cubic agate stone, measuring ten inches; on this is a triangular
plate of gold, sunk into the stone, and in the centre of this plate the
Enochian letters * * * *. Until required, this should be covered
with a black cloth.
OPENING.
T.\ P.\ (o) Captain of the Guard, are all present
Knights of the Ninth or Royal Arch ?
The Captain of the Guard satisfies himself and reports:
C.\ ofGr. Thrice Puissant, all present are Knights
of the Ninth or Royal Arch.
T.'.Pr. Your station?
C.\ of G.\ In the North, and at the head of the
Guard.
T.\ P.\ Your duty?
C.\ of G.\ To station the Guards, and see that
the Chapter is secure.
T.\ P.\ Attend to your duty, and inform the
Guards that I am about to open a Chapter of Knights
of the Ninth Arch.
The Captain of the Guard does so and reports:
C.\ of G.\ It is done, Thrice Puissant; we are
secure.
158
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
T. \ P.\ (o o) [The officers rise.] Companion Junior
Warden Stolkin, are you a Knight of the Ninth or
Royal Arch ?
J.-. TP. \ I have penetrated into the bowels of the
earth through nine arches, and have brought thence
a treasure to enrich and adorn the Temple of God.
T.P.-. Companion Senior Warden Gibulum, what
is the lesson taught in this degree of the Ninth Arch?
S.-.W.-. That difficulties and dangers, however
great, should not deter the true and faithful Brother
from progressing to perfection.
T. •. P. \ What is the hour %
J3. •. W. \ The rising of the sun.
T. If the risine of the sun, it is time to com¬
mence our work, and profit by its light. Senior War¬
den, give notice to the Companions that I am about
to open a Chapter of Knights of the Ninth Arch.
8. \ W. (o o o) Companion Junior Warden and
Companions, the Thrice Puissant is about to open a
Chapter of Knights of the Ninth Arch. Assemble
at the altar, and give your attention and assistance
to the work.
A]1 assemble at the altar, except the Kings and Wardens, who
recite the
LESSON.
T.\ P.-. The Lord is great in Zion. Let all the
earth praise Him for His great and terrible name ;
for it is holy.
S.\ W.\ Exalt the Lord our God, and worship on
His holy hill.
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
159
J. \W.\ He spake from the cloudy pillow and
from the fire ; and from the depth cometh forth the
riches of secret places.
T.P.\ Exalt the Lord our God, for He is holy ;
and His name, for it is from everlasting to everlast¬
ing.
S.'.W.'. What is man, that He should magnify
him, or that He should set His heart upon him ?
J. \ W. \ We are but of yesterday, and know noth¬
ing. Our days are but a shadow : they flee, and we
know not.
T.\ P.-. Canst thou, by searching, find out God?
Canst thou find out the Almighty to perfection ? He
is as high as heaven. What canst thou do ? He is *
deeper than hell. What canst thou know ?
Sr. W.\ His eyes are upon the ways of man, and
He seeth all his doings.
J.W. \ O God, let thy work appear unto thy ser¬
vants, and thy glory unto the children of men !
T.-. P.-. I jet the beauty of the Lord be upon us,
and establish thou the work of our hands : Oh, Je¬
hovah, establish thou it.
8.IF. \ I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live ;
I will sing praises unto my God while I have my be¬
ing.
J.\ W.\ My meditations of Him shall be sweet:
I will be glad in the Lord.
T.\ P.\ Mark the perfect man, and behold the
upright: for the end of that man is peace. "Mine
eyes shall be on the perfect man," saith the Lord.
' "The perfect of the land shall dwell with me : they
160
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
shall walk in my name, and serve me forever."—
Companions, let us give thanks unto the Lord, who
hath given us the treasures of darkness and the hid¬
den riches of secret places.
The Kings and Wardens then come forward to the altar, and all
kneel on the left knee, when the following prayer is offered up by
the Thrice Puissant:
PRAYER.
O, thou great and eternal Lord God, source of light
and of love—thou Sovereign Inspector and Mighty
Architect of the wonders of Creation—who from thy
throne in the highest heaven in mercy looketh down
upon all the dwellers of the earth—lend, we beseech
thee, thine ears to the prayers and petitions of thy
unworthy servants now assembled in thy presence,
to teach the mysteries of that Sublime Edifice which
is erected and dedicated to thy Most Holy and
Glorious Name. Pour upon us, and all the mem¬
bers of the Mystic Craft throughout the two hemis¬
pheres, the rich blessings of thy Providence. Give
us strength to overcome temptations, to subdue our
passions, and to practice virtue. Fill our hearts
with fear without desolation ; with confidence with¬
out presumption ; with piety without allusion; and
with joy without licentiousness. Fill our hearts
with tender affections for thy divine goodness, and
love for our neighbors; make us faithful to our
friends and charitable to our enemies. Dispose our
hearts. Oh ! thou God Eternal, to receive the splen¬
did impressions of Religion and Humanity; our
minds, the great lights of Science ; and direct our
footsteps in the bright paths of virtue.
Let all our actions prove to an admiring world
that our lives are sincerely dedicated to Thee, our
God, and to the relief of our fellow-creatures. And
finally, when we yield up our breath to Thee, the
Source of Life, may we, bearing the rich harvest of.
good actions, be admitted into that Sublime and
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
161
Eternal Lodge where happiness reigns without alloy,,
and where, around the throne of the Great Jehovah,,
we shall sing hallelujahs to his name.
Now unto the King Eternal, Immortal, Invisible,
the only Wise God, be the kingdom, power, andl
glory, forever and ever. Amen!
Omnes. God grant it! So mote it be.
T.'. P.'. (o O o) [All rise, resume their stations.] Compan¬
ions, attend and give the * *
J. \ W.'. 0 0 o—o o o—o o o
S. *. W.\ oo o—o o o—o o o
T. \ P.'. oo o—o o o—o o o
Omnes.-. o o o—o o o—o o o
T. -. P.-. Senior Warden, give notice that a Chap¬
ter of Knights of the Ninth Arch is open for the dis¬
patch of business.
S.-. W.'. Junior Warden and Companions, a
Chapter of Knights of the Ninth Arch is open for
the dispatch of business. Captain of the Guard, in¬
form the Guard, (o)
RECEPTION.
The Candidate in the ante-room, dressed as a Grand Master-
Architect, is in company with the Master of Ceremonies and several
Masters, Intendants of the Building, Grand Master Architects, etc,.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts them all to the entrance door,,
and o o o—o o o—o o o
J.-. IP.\ 0 0 O—0 O 0—o o o
S.-. W.o o o—o o o—o o o
II
162
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
T.'. P.\ 0 0 0—0 O O 0 O O
J.-. W.\ Companion Senior Warden, there is an
alarm of three times three at the entrance of this
Chapter of Knights of the Ninth Arch.
f).-. TF.-. Thrice Puissant, there is an alarm of
three times three at the entrance of this Chapter of
' Knights of the Ninth Arch.
T. •. P. \ Companion Senior Warden, see the cause
f>f this alarm, and who knocks as a Knight of the
Ninth Arch.
Captain of the Guard, see the cause of
this alarm, and who knocks as a Knight of the Ninth
Arch.
C. \ of G.'. [Goes to the door, (o O 0—0 O O—O 0 o)
opens it partially, and says]: What is tile cause of tbis
alarm I Who comes here I
M.-. of C.\ Several Masters and Intendants of the
Building and Grand Master Architects, who have-
with much zeal and labor assisted in the erection
of the Temple, now, on its near completion, request
to be admitted to the Secret Vault under the Sanc¬
tum Sanctorum.
C. \ of G. *. Are you what you represent yourselves
to be in Masonry1?
All. We are.
Or. of 6r. \ Satisfy me by signs and words.
The Candidate gives .||. # and words of a Grand Master Archi¬
tect.
O.-. ofGr. Companion Master of Ceremonies, you
'have introduced these Brothers to the entrance of
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
163
the audience-chamber. Do you vouch for them as
being worthy and well qualified?
M.-. of C. *. I do.
C.\ of G.\ It is well. You will wait until your
request is made known to the Most Puissant and Il¬
lustrious Kings now in the audience-chamber.
Captain of the Guard returns to the Chapter room, closes the
door, and says:
C. \ of G. \ Companion Senior Warden, several
Masters, Intendants of the Building and Grand
Master Architects, for whom I vouch, who have with
much zeal and labor assisted in the erection of the
Temjjle, now, on its near completion, request to be
admitted to the Secret Vault under the Sanctum
Sanctorum.
T. *. P.-. Companion Senior Warden, what is the
cause of this alarm at the entrance of our Chapter?
8.W. \ Several Masters, Intendants of the Build¬
ing and Grand Master Architects, for whom I vouch,
who have with much zeal and labor assisted in the
erection of the Temple, now, on its near completion,
request to be admitted to the Secret Vault under tlie
Sanc,tum Sanctorum.
T.\ P.\ Inform them that their request cannot
now be granted—to go in peace. If the Brothers
Joabert, Gibulum and Stolkin are among those solic¬
iting admittance, you will inform them that I shall
demand their presence before us, they will therefore
await our pleasure.
Captain of the Guard returns to the entrance, opens the door,
and says:
C.\ of G.\ Brothers, your request cannot now be
granted. Go in peace. If the Brothers Joabert,
164
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
Gibulum and Stolkin are among you, they will re¬
main in attendance as our Illustrious King Solomon
will command their presence after a time. You will
now retire and await orders.
All now retire to the preparation-room when a dissension arises
among the brethren.
1st Bro. -. Why are we thus unjustly treated?
Are Joabert, Gibulum and Stolkin better than we
are?
2nd Bro.-. Are we to be degraded, that they
should be preferred before us ?
3d Bro. \ Have we not exhibited as much zeal and
proficiency as they have ?
1st Bro.-. Let us resent this injury; these men
have basely worked upon the affections of our Grand
Master.
All.-. We will.
They move forward as if to assault; Master of Ceremonies meets
them and raises his hand deprecatingly.
M.-. of C.-. Desist, Brothers! You will not com¬
mit this wicked act. You well know that, by mu¬
tual agreement, we were to beg the privilege of
advancement. How we have met with favor to your
prejudice, we have no knowledge. On the contrary
we may be detained to receive punishment for some
act in which we have ignorantly erred. Whatever
the object we must ever remember our solemn obliga¬
tions.
1st Bro.-. Brother Joabert is right. Let us go in
peace.
They now all leave the preparation-room by the outer door ex¬
cept Joabert, Gibulum and Stolkin. While the above is transpiring
in the preparation-room the Thrice Puissant will say :
PwOYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
165
T.\ P.\ Companion Senior Warden, yon will re¬
quest the attendance of Brothers Joabert, Gibulum
and Stolkin in the audience-chamber.
Senior Warden repairs to the preparation-room.
8. \ W. •. Brothers Joabert, Gibulum and Stolkin,
the Most Puissant and Illustrious Kings request
your attendance in the audience-chamber.
Two Candidates and Master of Ceremonies follow him to the
audience-chamber, and stand in the West.
T. •. P.\ My Brothers, you have been especially
selected from among your companions to perform a
delicate and dangerous duty, which, if successful,
will redound to your credit, the glory of Masonry
and the benefit of mankind. Your zeal, constancy
and firmness have induced me to select you for the
purpose. In digging for a foundation for the temple,
at the spot first selected for that purpose, we found
the ruins of an ancient edifice, which we supposed
to have been built before the Flood, and devoted to
idolatrous purposes. We, therefore, abandoned the
spot, and selected another site whereon to erect the
Temple of God. We have since discovered at the
place much valuable treasure, which has been col¬
lected and deposited in the Sacred Vault for the use
of the Holy Temple. Are you willing to make fur¬
ther searches among these ancient ruins for treasure I
Mr. of C.\ We are, Most Puissant and Illustri¬
ous Kings, willing to undertake any task, be it ever
so hard, difficult and dangerous, if so we can benefit
the Craft and enrich the Temple.
T.\ P. -. Companion Senior Warden, see our Broth¬
ers furnished with the necessary tools and imple¬
ments.
Captain of Guard furnishes them with the working tools, pick¬
axe, spade and crowbar.
166
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
T. \ P.-. Go, my Brothers, to your labors in the
ancient ruins, and if you make any discovery of im¬
portance, hasten to us and report.
M. \ of C.\ Follow me, Brothers. I know the
ruins well, having before visited them ; it is a rough
road, and attended with some danger.
They pass over a road in darkness, meet many impediments, and
eventually arrive at the ruins. They commence working in the rub¬
bish, indulging in such conversation as the peculiar circumstances of
the case may suggest, until they discover some portions of a broken
column, etc., and a ring in the cubic stone.
M. of C. \ Ha ! this is something that I feel satis¬
fied has not before been discovered [raises the stone by
the ring]; this appears to be a vault, I will with j7our
assistance endeavor to explore it.
They now arrange the ropes for the descent.
M.\ of C.\ Brothers, I will indicate my desire in
this wise, one blow on the rope to raise me, two to
remain steady, and three to let me further descend.
If any accident befall me, say to our Grand Master
and Companions that I suffered willingly for our
good cause ; I am ready.
Master of Ceremonies descends through three arches; and in¬
timates that he desires to return, when he will be drawn up.
M.\ of C.\ I gave the signal to be brought to the
surface in consequence of the confined air becoming
exceedingly offensive. Let us return to our Grand
Master with this stone and report. In the meantime
we will leave the vault open, in order that the foul
air may escape.
They return to Chapter-room over the same road, and Master of
Ceremonies o o o
J.\W.\ ooo
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH. 167
-sr.-. IF.-, ooo
T.-.P.-. ooo
C.\ of 0.\ Companion Senior Warden, there is
an alarm at the entrance of this Chapter.
S.\ W.\ Thrice Puissant, there is an alarm at the
entrance of this Chapter.
T. -. P. -. Companion Senior Warden, seethe cause?
S.-. TF \ Captain of the Guard, see the cause.
C.\ of Cr.\ Who comes here?
M.-. of C.\ Brothers from the ancient ruins.
C.\ of G.\ Companion Senior Warden, Brothers
from the ancient ruins.
8.-. TF.-. Thrice Puissant, Broihers from the ancient
ruins.
T. \ P.\ Let them enter.
S -. TF \ Let them enter.
C.\ of G.\ Let them enter. [They enter]
3f.\ of C.\ Most Puissant and Illustrious Kings,,
we have obeyed your orders, and are ready to report
our discoveries.
T.-. P. \ Do so, my Brethren. Relate to us yousr
adventures at the ancient ruins, and what discov¬
eries you have made.
J/.-, of C.\ We repaired to the place designated,
and at the rising of the sun commenced our labors at
the spot where the workmen first- commenced digging
168
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
for the foundation of the Temple, and worked some
time, not meeting with anything in particular. We
at last came to a metal ring, which we found attach¬
ed to a large stone, the which, with much difficulty,
we raised ; we found it to be a cubic stone, and on it
many ancient characters to us unknown. Beneath
this stone, a deep and dismal cavern. Upon consulta¬
tion with my Brethren I agreed to descend and ex¬
plore it. My companions passed a rope three times
around my body and fastened it; in this manner I
descended through two arches into a third, when,
finding the cavern offensive from the long confine¬
ment of air, I gave the signal for my return. On
being drawn up, and on consultation, it was agreed
that we should bring up these pieces of columns and
cubic stone for your inspection, and request to be
made acquainted with the ancient characters on
them.
T. • P.'. [and K.\ of T.\ examining it.] My Brothers,
this stone, we are of opinion, is the copestone of
Enoch's Temple. We are satisfied, from the inscrip¬
tion on this perfect stone, that the subterranean
temple, of which this stone is the key, was erected
by our ancient Brother Enoch to the true and living
God, and not for idolatrous purposes and for heathen
worshipers, as we at first supposed. This valuable
relic you have found will be laid up in the Secret
"Vault for the use of the Temple.
My Brothers: God, in permitting you to make this
discovery, has bestowed upon you a particular favor.
Your request cannot now be granted. Are you will¬
ing to continue your labors, to descend into this cav¬
ern, to resume your researches, and bring forth the
treasure we have no doubt lies there concealed ?
M.\ of 0. \ We are, Thrice Puissant and Illustri¬
ous Kings, although the task of examining it may
be attended with much difficulty and danger ; yet we
are willing to do so, and descend even at the hazard
of our lives.
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
169
T. •. P.-. Go, then my Brothers, your zeal and
devotion shall not go unrewarded. May the God of
our fathers bless you, and may success attend your
efforts !
They proceed over the same road to the vault. The Master of
Ceremonies, using language appropriate to the occasion, will again
descend, passing through six arches, when he will a second time
give the signal to ascend. He is then drawn up.
M. \ of C. \ Having passed through six arches,
and finding still another opening, and being ex¬
hausted by fatigue, an oppressive atmosphere,and the
gloomy appearance of the cavern, I gave the signal
to be drawn up. Until the foul air escapes it will be
impossible to descend further. Let us return and
report to our Grand Master.
They return to Chapter, and make alarm, o o o—o o o.
J. *. W.\ 0 0 o—o o o
S.\ W. \ o o o—o o o.
T. \ P.-. o o o—o o o.
C.'.ofG.'. Companion Senior Warden, there is
an alarm at the entrance of this Chapter.
S. • W. \ Thrice Puissant, there is an alarm at the
entrance of this Chapter.
T.\ P.\ Companion Senior Warden, seethe cause.
8.'. W.\ Captain of the Guard, see the cause.
C.'.ofG.'. Who comes here ?
M.-. of C.'. Brothers from the ancient ruins.
C.'. of G.'. Companion Senior Warden, Brothers
from the ancient ruins.
170
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
S. \ TP.-. Thrice Puissant, Brothers from the an¬
cient ruins.
T.\ P.-. Let them enter.
S.\ TP.\ Let them enter.
C.\ of 0.\ Let them enter
Master of Ceremonies and Candidates enter, and approach the.
East.
T.-. P.\ Speak, my Brothers. What further dis¬
coveries have you made, and what more to add to>
our treasury %
3I.\ of C.\ We again repaired to the ruins, and
I descended into the cavern, passing through six:
arches, when, discovering still another arch, I gave-
the signal to be drawn up, in consequence of the of¬
fensive atmosphere, and the fatigue I had under¬
gone in descending. We agreed to return and report*
having left the cavern open in order that the nox¬
ious gases might escape, and with the hope ti at we-
may again be permitted to resume our researches.
T.'.P.'. Brothers, you did wrong in returning-
until you had thoroughly penetrated to the depths,
of the cavern. Return and prosecute your search,
and if successful your names will be forever great
among Masons.
31. -. of C.'. Thanks, Illustrious King, we will not
return until the remotest part of the cavern has been
thoroughly explored.
They salute and again depart. Master of Ceremonies again de¬
scends and passes through nine arches, and discovers the pillar sus¬
taining the luminous delta. He gives the signal and is drawn up,
when the three descend by the aid of a ladder of ropes. After hav¬
ing secured the treasure they ascend to the surface.
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH. 171
Mr. of C.-. Eureka! Rejoice, my brothers; our
danger is over; this discovery will gain us much
honor ; let us at once repair to our Grand Master
with our treasure.
They return to the Chapter, and make alarm o o o—o o o—o o o
J.W.\ o o o—o o o—o o o
S. W.\ o o o—o o o—o o o
T.-. P.\ oo o—o o o—o o o
C. \ of G.\ Companion Senior Warden, there is
an alarm at the entrance of this Chapter.
S.\ W.\ Thrice Puissant, there is an alarm at the
entrance of this Chapter.
T.-. P.\ Companion Senior Warden, see the cause.
8. *. W.\ Captain of the Guard, see the cause.
C. \ of G. \ Who comes here \
M.\ of C\ \ Brothers from the ancient ruins, with
treasure for the Temple.
C.\ of G.\ Companion Senior Warden, Brothers
from the ancient ruins, with treasure for the Temple.
S.-,W.Thrice Puissant, Brothers from the an¬
cient ruins, with treasure for the Temple.
T. \ P.\ Let them enter.
S.\ TV.'. Let them enter.
C.\ of G.\ Let them enter.
Master of Ceremonies and Candidates enter, and approach the
East.
172
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
M.of C.\ Thrice Puissant and Illustrious Kings,
we have obeyed your commands, and have penetrat¬
ed through nine arches into the bowels of the earth,
even to the lowest arch.
T.P.\ We thank you for your zeal and devo¬
tion. Relate to us your adventures in the arches
and your discoveries.
M.\ of C.\ We again repaired to the ruins. My
Companions fastened the rope around my body, and,
with a lighted flambeau in my hand, I descended,
and passed with much difficulty the seventh and
eighth, and into the ninth and deepest arch of the
cavern ; when some rubbish falling from above ex¬
tinguished the light, and left me in total darkness.
Soon afterward, the place became illuminated, audi
discovered on one side of the arch a brilliant light.
On approaching it, I found it proceeded from a tri¬
angular plate of gold, incrusted with precious stones,
the brilliancy of which struck me with admiration
and astonishment. I hastily gave the necessary
signal, and was again drawn up to the surface of the
earth to my companions. On relating to them what
I had discovered and the scene I had witnessed, they
immediately descended with me by the aid of a lad¬
der of ropes to the ninth and deepest arch. The
beauty and brilliancy of the plate tilled us with awe
and astonishment, and caused us to fall on our
knees, and raise our eyes and hands to heaven in ad¬
miration. We took the plate from the pedestal on
which it was fastened, and ascended to the earth, and
have brought the same up for your inspection ; and,
as a reward for our toil and labor, would solicit to
be made acquainted with the ancient characters on
the cubic sione, and the mysterious characters on
this golden plate, which we now present to you.
They present the plate. On seeing- the face of the plate of gold,
the two Kings start up in surprise and admiration (giving *). Hiram
of Tyre being about to speak, King Solomon gives him the sign of
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
173
silence ; when he says, "Gibulum Ishtore," or "Gibulum is a good
man." They then view the plate for some time in silence, and
cover it up on the altar.
T. \ P.\ My Brothers, your request shall in due
time be complied with. You have had the honor
and the exalted privilege of having discovered the
dearest and most precious jewel of Masonry. The
promise which God made to the Ancient Patriarchs,
that in the fullness of time his true name should be
revealed, is now accomplished.
By you that great and awful name has been
brought to light ; until this time we were ignorant of
the true pronunciation of that great name. The in¬
scription on this cubic stone is in the ancient Rnoch-
ian character, and reads, "Hanock Hawncih lai ho-
yahwhich, translated, means "Dedicated to God
by Enoch a full explanation of which will be given
to you in the history of the degree. As a reward,
my Brothers, for the very valuable services you have
rendered, we will constitute and create you Knights
of the Ninth or Royal Arch ; and we promise you an
explanation of the mysterious characters on this
golden plate when it shall have been fixed in the
place long designed for it. You will then receive the
sublime and mysterious degree of Perfection. In
the meantine travel, my Brothers, for further in¬
struction, and in search of the true word ; the giver
of every good and perfect gift may further confirm
the great favor vouchsafed to you and all of us in
this day's glorious result.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies and Candidates again travel,
but without working implements, until they approach the Burning
Bush in the rear of the East, when the Grand Master of Ceremonies
says :
O. \ M.m. of C.\ We now approach the place rep¬
resenting the spot where Moses kept the flock of
Jethro, his Father-in-Law, the Priest of Midian ; as
he led the flock to the rear of the desert, and came
to the mountain of God, even to Horeb, the angel of
174
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of
the midst of a bush ; and he looked, aud beheld the
bush burned with lire, and the bush was not con¬
sumed ; and Moses turned aside to see why the bush
was not burned ; and God called unto him out of the
midst of the bush, and said, "Draw not nigh hither,
put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place
whereon thou standest is holy ground ; for I am the
God of thy Father, the God of Abraham, the God of
Isaac, and the God of Jacob;" and Moses hid his
face, thus:
Remove the shoes and make 2d * of Perfection.
For he was afraid to look upon God ; and God com¬
manded Moses to bring the children of Israel out of
Egypt ; and Moses said, "Behold, when I come unto
the children of Israel, who shall I say sent me unto
them?" and God said nnto Moses, "/ am that I
amthou shalt say, I am hath sent me unto you; I
am the Lord, God Almighty; by my name Jehovah
I am not known to them ; I am that I am, and was
and ever shall be and Moses did as the Lord com¬
manded him. Let "us now return unto the King.
Master of Ceremonies and Candidates return before the Kings.
T.\ P.\ You will now, my Brothers, retire to the
West, and advance to the East by three times three
steps; and, kneeling at the altar, contract your ob¬
ligation of Knight of the Ninth or Royal Arch.
Three swords presented to each Companion's heart=nine.
OBLIGATION.
I, , of my own free will and accord, do
hereby and hereon most solemnly promise and swear,
in the presence of Him wrlio dwelleth between the
Cherubim, and this Chapter of Knights of the Ninth
or Royal Arch, that I will not reveal the secrets of
ROYAL ARCH OF E^OCH.
175
this degree to any one of an inferior degree, or to
^any person or persons in the world, unless justly and
lawfully entitled to the same, or in a regularly con¬
vened Chapter of Knights of the Ninth or Royal Arch.
I further promise and swear that I will not be con¬
cerned or assist in conferring this degree upon any
one, unless he shall have taken the preceding degrees
of Ineffable Masonry in a regular and constitutional
manner, and that to my full and entire satisfaction.
I further promise and swear, that I will not be con¬
cerned or assist in conferring this degree upon more
or less that three Candidates, nor then unless it be
in a regular Chapter of Knights of the Ninth Arch,
holden under a Lodge of Perfection, or by constitu¬
tional authority so to do ; and that I will never give
the word or words of this degree, except in the pres¬
ence of three Brothers of this degree.
I further promise and swear, that I will not help,
aid or assist in conferring this degree upon any one,
unless he shall manifest a charitable and humane
disposition, zeal and love for the Brothers and for
the cause of Freemasonry, nor unless there be pres¬
ent nine Royal Arch Masons.
I further promise and swear, that I will answer
and obey all due signs and summonses, handed, sent
or thrown to me from a Chapter of Royal Arch Ma¬
sons, or from a Companion Royal Arch Mason, if
within the length of my cable-tow.
To all of which I promise and swear, binding my¬
self under no less a penalty than of being crushed
beneath the ruins of a subterranean edifice, if I
should be willfully guilty of violating this my obli¬
gation of a Knight of the Ninth Arch. So help me
<xod, and make me steadfast to keep and perform the
same. Amen ! Amen ! ! Amen ! ! !
You will now salute the Book of the Testimony
three times.
T. \ P.\ Rise, and I will communicate to you the
signs, grip and words of a Knight of the Ninth Arch,
and invest you with the symbols of this degree.
176
THIRTEENTH, DEGREE.
of Admiration: Raise both arms towards heaven, the head
inclined .4. .f., .||. 4- -^n- -IT- ground.
of Adoration: Fall upon both .kns., bring .J- • t-• I- down from
shoulder .4. hip, and place at the same time .f- • L« be¬
hind the back.
Place your . . under the armpit of .||. as if to help him
to rise, and give the P.'. V.'.
p.-. V.'. m u L u B I g.\ k E L A M A H.\
S.'. V.'. mrP This, my Brother, is the Ineffable word, engraved
upon the plate of gold which is upon the cube of agate. Its pronun¬
ciation is known to the Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason
only, and cannot now be communicated to you. You can receive
and communicate it only by its letters, and as one of three brethren,
repeating these letters alternately, they are: H, V, H, Y, meaning
mrp
C.\ V.*. There are nine names of Deity, used as words in this
degree, one to each of the arches, and all of which are to be de¬
manded in succession when it is desired thoroughly to test a brother.
They are as follows:
1st arch, voj; 2nd arch, ohej; 3rd arch, ahuj;
4th arch, hayuh; 5th arch, nobbegle; 6th arch, ianoda;
7th arch, nanikaj; 8th arch, haole; 9th arch, htobezle.
My Brothers, these are styled "covering words," because they
cover and conceal from the profane the true name of God.
You will now go and salute the King of Tyre, the
Senior and Junior Wardens, and the Brethren, now
termed Companions, and return to the East.
The Master of Ceremonies and Candidates do so and return.
I shall now invest you with the apron, collar and
jewel of a Knight of the Ninth or Royal Arch.
The color of your apron and collar is purple, and
denotes the royal origin of the degree and the dig¬
nity of your station.
The jewel alludes to the delta or golden plate found
in the subterranean arch, a more full description of
which will be obtained by attending to the history
and lecture of the degree.
ROYAL ARCII OF ENOCH.
177
The peculiar lesson taught in this degree is that
the true and faithful Brother will not be deterred by
difficulties and dangers, however great, from press¬
ing onward to Perfection.
You will now repair to the Grand Orator for the
history of this degree.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidates to the Grand
Orator.
HISTORY.
Grand Orator. Companions: This is the history
and legend of this degree :—Enoch, the son of Jared,
was the sixth in descent from Adam. Filled with
the love and fear of God, lie strove to lead men in
the way of honor and duty. In a vision the Deity
appeared to him in visible shape, and said to him,
"Enoch, thou hast longed to know my true name;
arise and follow me, and thou shalt know It."' Then
it seemed to Enoch that he was taken up, and in an
instant transported to a mountain, whose summit
was hid among the clouds, and seemed to reach the
stars ; and there he saw upon the clouds, in letters
of brilliant light, the awful and mysterious name * *
* *, whose pronunciation was then whispered to him,
and he prohibited from uttering it to any man.
Instantly he seemed to be transposed from the
mountain, and to descend perpendicularly into xhe
ground, passing through nine subterranean apart¬
ments, one below the other, and each roofed as an
arch ; in the ninth and lowest of which lie saw upon
a triangular plate of gold, surrounded by brilliant
rays of light, the same ineffable word which he had
seen upon the mountain. And thereupon lie aroused.
Enoch, accepting his vision as an inspiration,
journeyed in search of the mountain he had seen in
the vision, until, weary of trie search, he stopped in
the land of Canaan, then already populous with the
descendants of Adam, and there employed the work¬
men ; and, with the help of his son Methuselah, he
12
178
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
excavated nine apartments, one above the other, and
each roofed with an arch, as lie had seen in his
dream, the lowest being hewn out of the solid rock.
In the crown of each arch he left a narrow aperture,
closed with a square stone, and over the upper one
he built a modest temple, roofless and of huge un¬
hewn stones, to the Grand Architect of the Universe.
Upon a triangular plate of gold, inlaid with many
precious gems, he engraved the ineffable name of God,
and sank the plate into one face of a cube of agate,
which he then placed upon a pedestal of white ala¬
baster in the lowest of the nine apartments ; the ped¬
estal was triangular and hollow.
Some writers state that into this pedestal, from a
crevice in the rock, flowed a stream of inflammable
air, that burned continually with a brilliant light
until after it wTas discovered in the reign of King
Solomon. Other writers state that the brilliancy of
the delta and precious stones were such, that upon
the removal of the square stones of the arches, the
light was reflected so as to illuminate the rock-hewn
cavern.
None knew of the deposit of the precious treasure ;
and, that it might remain undiscovered, and survive
the Flood, which it was known to Enoch would soon
overwhelm the known world in one vast sea of mire,
lie covered the aperture, and the stone that closed it
and the great ring of iron used to raise the stone,
with the granite pavement of his primitive temple.
Then, fearing that all knowledge of the arts and
sciences would be lost in the universal flood, he built
two great columns upon a high kill—one of brass,
to resist wrater, and one of granite, to resist fire. On
the granite column was written in hieroglyphics a
description of the subterranean apartments ; on the
one of brass, the rudiments of the arts and sciences.
The granite column was overturned and swept
away, and worn to a shapeless mass by the Deluge,
but that of brass stood firm, and was found by Noah.
Thenceforward the true name of God remained un¬
known until he said unto Moses in Egypt, when he
royal arch of enoch.
179
ordered him to go to Pharaoh, and cansehimto send
forth the children of Israel out of Egypt: "I am
that which I was and shall be : I am the God of thy
fathers ; the God of Abraham, of Isaac and of Jacob.
Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, He
wiio is hath sent me unto yon. I am the Lord, that
appeared to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob, by my
name Al Sjiedi, but my name rwv I did not show
them."
Moses engraved the ineffable name upon a plate of
gold, and deposited it in the ark of the covenant.
Moses made the name known to Aaron and Joshua,
and afterwards it was made known to the chief
priests. The word being composed of consonants
only, its true pronunciation was soon lost, but the
word still remained in the ark ; and in the time of
Othniel, in a battle against the King of Syria, those
who bore the ark were slain, and the ark fell to the
ground. After the battle, the men of Israel, searching
for it, were led to it by the roaring of a lion, which,
crouching by it, had guarded it, holding the gol¬
den key in its mouth. Upon the approach of the
High priest and Levites, he laid down the key, and
withdrew. Hence, upon the golden key worn by the
Treasurer, you see the initials of these words ; " In
arcleonis verbum inveni—"In the lion's mouth I
found the word." This plate of gold was melted
down, and made into an image of Dagon by the
Philistines, who took it in battle.
David intended to build a temple to God, but be¬
queathed the enterprise to Solomon his son, and Solo¬
mon selected a place near Jerusalem; but finding
overthrown columns of Enoch's temple, and suppos¬
ing them to be the ruins of a heathen people, and
not wishing to select a desecrated spot, selected
Mount Moriah for the site of his Temple to the true
God. Under this temple he built a secret vault, the
approach to which was through eight other vaults,
all under ground, and to which a long and narrow
passage led under the king's palace. In the ninth
apartment was placed a twisted column of white
180
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
marble, called the Pillar of Beauty, on which it was
intended to place the ark, and in this apartment he
held his private conferences with King Hiram of
Tyre and H. A.,—they only knowing the way by
which it was approached. Solomon proposed to erect
a Temple of Justice, and selected as a site the spot
where Enoch's temple had stood, and to that end
directed that the fallen columns and rubbish should
be removed. Gibulum, Joabert and Stolkin were
selected to survey the ground and lay off the founda¬
tions. In doing so, they discovered a large ring at¬
tached to a square slab of granite; raising which, by
their united efforts, an aperture was discovered like
a deep w^ell sunk in the earth. They immediately
gathered together such things as appeared of import¬
ance—such as some vessels of gold and pieces of a
marble column, covered with hieroglyphics, and car¬
ried them with the square stone, which likewise had
upon its surface some rude engraving, to the kings.
Solomon immediately conceived the imy)ortance of
the discovery, requested the three Brethren to re¬
turn, and complete their examination.
Upon again approaching the spot, Joabert offered
to explore the cavern, and furnished himself with
a torch, and was lowered down into the opening by
his companions. After descending some distance,
he came to a floor with another stone covering an
aperture ; removing the stone, he descended to a
second apartment, similar to the first, where he dis¬
covered another stone and a similar apartment.
Weary by his long suspension, and his torch nearly
extinguished, he made known to his companions by
shaking the rope that he desired to be drawn up.
Arriving at the surface, he informed them of his dis¬
coveries, and his belief that there were other apart¬
ments still below. Descending a second time, three
other apartments of a similar nature were discovered ;
and again becoming weary, the companion was drawn
up. A third time the apartments were entered, and
the ninth vault discovered, when some rubbish fall¬
ing, extinguished the torch, and somewhat bruised
ItOYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
181
the companion. He then discovered in the centre of
the apartment a luminous triangular pedestal, as if
made of white alabaster, upon which sat a cube of
agate, into one face of which was sunk a plate of gold,
thickly incrusted with precious stones, that glisten¬
ed in the light, and enameled on the plate was the
ineffable name of the Deity, as the same had been
placed there by Enoch the Patriarch. The companion
knew not the meaning of the word; but, struck
with admiration at the sight, he fell upon one knee,
and, raising his hands, uttered his thanks to God,
whom he knew only by his name Al-Shedi ; then, giv¬
ing the signal, was raised to the surface. After in¬
forming his companions of what he had seen and dis¬
covered, they procured a ladder of ropes, and de¬
scended together into the vault; and there, struck
with admiration, Joabert, Gibulum andStolkin bowed
the knee in awe and astonishment. Gibulum and
Stolkin first arose, and, seeing Joabert, who was a
Phoenician, still upon his knees, they placed their
hands under his arms, and assisted him to arise, say¬
ing, "Hamalek Ghibulum," signifying " All honor
to Gibulum."
Then, examining the cube of agate, and not know¬
ing the meaning of the word upon it, they resolved
to carry it to King Solomon and Hiram King of Tyre.
The companions then ascended, and closed the en¬
trance carefully, and repaired to the palace, request¬
ing to be informed of the meaning of the ancient
characters on the cubic stone and the mysterious
characters on the golden plate.
King Solomon, immediately on beholding the cube
and the inscription upon it, started up in surprise,
and gave the sign of admiration. Hiram of Tyre
being about to speak, King Solomon signed h.im to
be silent; when he said, "Gibulum Ishtor and,
placing the cube upon the altar, covered the same.
Solomon then told the Brothers that their request
should in due time be complied with, and that the
promise which God had made to the Ancient Patri¬
archs, that in the fullness of time his true name
182
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
should be revealed, was now accomplished : Wear
henceforth the title of " Knights of the Ninth or
Royal Arch" as a high order of nobility. King
Solomon then fixed upon the sign, grip and word of
this degree, and revealed to the Companions the let¬
ters of which the word is composed.
Afterwards the cube of agate was deposited in the
place prepared for its reception, and the degree of
Gr.\ E. •. P.-. & S.\ M.\ was established, and the
true pronunciation and explanation of the word
given, as well as the true nature and attributes of
the Deity.
Shortly thereafter a number of curious Masons,
jealous of the honor and title of the Companions of
the Royal Arch, sent a delegation to King Solomon,
to lay their complaints before him. He heard them
patiently; then mildly answered them that their
Companions had merited the preference shown them,
by their zeal and eminent services ; and said, "■ Your
time has not yet come : wait patiently, and in due
season, if you are found deserving, you will receive
the same reward. These Brethren descended into
the bowels of the earth, and brought thence an in¬
estimable treasure, which was needed to complete
the Temple of the living God.—Go in Peace ! Let
your services in Masonry be as valuable, and I will
reward you as amply as you deserve."
Whereupon a number of Masons being dissatisfied,
vain and jealous, resolved to explore the ruins,
where they understood the treasure had been found,
in the hope of discovering other treasures, and to es¬
cape, if finding any, to foreign countries.
Some twenty or more then went to the ruins, dis¬
covered the iron ring and ladder of ropes, descended
the arches, and entered the lowest vault with numer¬
ous torches ; when shortly a flame of lire leaped into
the air from the aperture—the roar of an explosion
followed, the earth shook, the arches were shattered
and fell, crushing and burying those who had de¬
scended.
Nothing remained, except a chasm in the earth,
EOYAL AECH OF ENOCH.
183
filled with rubbish, which was afterwards filled up
by order of the King, and the Temple of Justice
erected on the spot.
Such is the legend and history of this degree.
You may now be seated among your Companions.
CLOSING.
T. \ P.-. (o) Captain of the Guard, your last as
well as your first duty ?
C.of To see that the Guards are at their
stations, and that the Chapter is secure.
rr ■. P.-. Attend to that duty, and inform the
Guunl that I am about to close this Chapter of
Knights of the Ninth Arch.
Captain of Guard does so, and reports :
C.-. of G.\ It is done, Thrice Puissant.
Thrice Puissant raps o o and the officers rise, and return their
jewels to the East, salute and retire to their places, and remain
standing.
T.\ P.\ Brother Junior Warden, are you a Knight
of the Ninth Arch ?
J.-. W.\ I have penetrated into the bowels of the
earth through nine arches, and have brought thence
a treasure to adorn and enrich the Temple of our God.
T.\ P.\ Brother Senior Warden, what is the les¬
son taught in this degree?
S.\ Wr. That difficulties and dangers, however
great, should not deter the true and faithful Brother
from i>rogressing onward to Perfection.
T.'. P.'. What is the hour?
S.-. W. \ The setting of the sun.
184
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
T. •. P. \ The sun having set, it is time to close our
work. Give notice to the Companions that I am
about to close.
S.\ W.\ (o o o) Brother Junior Wardens and Com¬
panions, the Thrice Puissant is about to close this
Chapter of Knights of the Ninth Arch. Assemble at
the altar, and give your attention and assistance to
the work.
All assemble at the altar, except the Kings and Wardens, who
recite the
LESSON.
T. •. P.-. The Lord is great in Zion. Let all the
earth praise Him for His great and terrible name ;
for it is holy.
S. *. W. \ Exalt the Lord our God, and worship on
His holy hill.
J.-.TV.-. He spake from the cloudy pillow and
from the fire ; and from the depth cometh forth the
riches of secret places.
T. \ P. \ Exalt the Lord our God, for He is holy ;
and His name, for it is from everlasting to-everlasting.
S. \ TV. •. What is man, that He should magnify
him, or that He should set His heart upon him %
J. •. TV. We are but of yesterday, and know noth¬
ing. Our days are but a shadow : they llee, and we
know not.
T. •. P. ■. Canst thou, by searching, find out God?
Canst rboii find out the Almighty to perfection ? He
is as hiuli as heaven. What canst thou do \ He is
deeper than hell. What canst thou know ?
S.\ W.\ His eyes are upon the ways of man, and
He seeth all his doings.
ROYAL ARCH OF ENOCH.
185
J.'.W.-. O God, let thy work appear unto thy ser¬
vants, and thy glory unto the children of men !
T. \ P.-. Let the beauty of the Lord be upon us,
and establish thou the work of our hands : Oh, Je¬
hovah, establish thou it.
>Sy. \ W. \ I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live ;
I will sing praises unto my God while I have my be¬
ing.
J. \ W.\ My meditations of Him shall be sweet:
I will be glad in the Lord.
T.'. P.-. Mark the perfect man, and behold the
upright: for the end of that man is peace. "Mine
eyes shall be on the perfect man," saitli the Lord.
"The perfect of the land shall dwell with me : they
shall walk in my name, and serve me forever."—
Companions, let us give thanks unto the Lord, who
hath given us the treasures of darkness and the hid¬
den riches of secret places.
The Kings and Wardens then come forward to the altar, and all
kneel on the left knee, when the following prayer is offered up by
the Thrice Puissant:
PRAYER.
O, thou great and eternal Lord God, source of light
and of love—thou Sovereign Inspector and Mighty
Architect of the wonders of Creation—who from thy
throne in the highest heaven in mercy looketh down
upon all the dwellers of the earth—lend, we beseech
thee, thine ears to the prayers and petitions of thy
unworthy servants now assembled in thy presence,
to teach the mysteries of that Sublime Edifice which
is erected and dedicated to thy Most Holy and
Glorious Name. Pour upon us, and all the mem¬
bers of the Mystic Craft throughout the two hemis¬
pheres, the rich blessings of thy Providence. Give
us strength to overcome temptations, to subdue our
186
THIRTEENTH DEGREE.
passions, and to practice virtue. Fill our hearts
with fear without desolation ; with confidence with¬
out presumption ; with piety without allusion; and
with joy without licentiousness. Fill our hearts
with tender affections for thy divine goodness, and
love for our neighbors; make us faithful to our
friends and charitable to our enemies. Dispose our
hearts, Oh ! thou God Eternal, to receive the splen¬
did impressions of Religion and Humanity; our
minds, the great lights of Science; and direct our
footsteps in the bright paths of virtue.
Let all our actions prove to an admiring world
that our lives are sincerely dedicated to Thee, our
God, and to the relief of our fellow-creatures. And
finally, when we yield up our breath to Thee, the
Source of Life, may we, bearing the rich harvest of
good actions, be admitted into that Sublime and
Eternal Lodge where happiness reigns without alloy,
and where, around the throne of the Great Jehovah,
we shall sing hallelujahs to his name.
Now unto the King Eternal, Immortal, Invisible,
the only Wise God, be the kingdom, power, and
glory, forever and ever. Amen !
Omnes. God grant it. So mote it be !
T. '. P. ".0 0 0 (All rise, resume their stations.) Com¬
panions attend and give the * *.
T. \ P. \ o o o—o o o—o o o.
8. \ W. *.oo o—o o o—o o o.
J. \ W. \ 0 0 o—o o o—o o o.
Omnes. o o o—o o o—o o o.
T.\ P.\ This Chapter of Knights of the Ninth
Arch is closed.
S. \ W. •- This Chapter of Knights of the Ninth
Arch is closed. Captain of the Guard, inform the
Guard, (o)
GSAM), ELECT, PEBFECT AND SUBLIME HASTES MASONV
o o o o o
o o o o
Nine Lights in the East.
Burning Bush.
o o
Hiram. Solomon.
Gr. Treas.
o
Table of
Shew-bread.
o
G. H. Bro.
o
G. M. of C.
o
Organist.
o o o i
Pillar Seven-branch Tablets of
of Beauty. Candlestick. the Law.
ALTAR.
Gr. Sec'y
Pillar Altar of
of Enoch. Incense
Gr. Or.
Altar of Sacrifice.
Brazen Salver.
Eh
Gr. Sr. Expert.
Senior G. Warden.
Seven Lights,
o o o o o o
Gr. Jr. Expert.
-Second Sentinel.--
G. Tiler.
-First Sentinel. ■
O ICS iO
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT AND SUB¬
LIME MASON.
HISTORY.
The Lodge represents the Secret Vault und^r the
Sanctum Sanctorum, in which is the Pillar of Beauty,
and on this is placed the holy four-letter name. This
degree reveals and explains the tetragramrnaton,
completes the construction of the Holy Temple, and
narrates the destruction of both it and the city of
Jerusalem, together with the death of Solomon.
DECORATIONS, OFFICERS, CLOTHING, &C.
The Lodge should be cubical inform; the Brethren (ifconvenient)
sitting about the Lodge so as to form a triangle.
Lights:—3, 5, 7 and 9. 3 lights North, in form of a Triangle; 5
lights South, in form of a Pentagon; 7 lights West, in form of a Hep¬
tagon; 9 lights East, forming three Equilateral Triangles, in a line.
The Lodge should contain a Pillar of Beauty; the Ark of Alliance;
the Seven Branch Golden Candlestick; a representation of the Burn¬
ing Bush; the Table of Shewbread; the Altar of Perfumes; the Altar
of Sacrifices; the Brazen Salver; the Enochian Pillar; the Golden
Urns and Vases; the Golden Delta of Enoch; the Book of the Tes¬
timony; the Square and Compasses; the Cubic Stone; the Tables
of the Law; the Bread and Wine; the Silver Hod and Golden Trowel;
the Silver Plate and Cup.
190
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Pillar of Beauty:—Twisted column, pure white marble, about three
and a half feet high, on which should be the cube of agate, measur¬
ing about six inches on each face, on the upper side of which is the
triangular Enochian plate of gold, set in with precious stones, and
having on it the Ineffable name.
Pillar of Enoch:—Marble pieces put together, found in ancient
ruins, with Enochian characters upon it.
Brazen Salver:—Large brazen basin, containing water, on a ped¬
estal 2>% feet high, with ten layers at its base.
Altar of Sacrifices:—Length and breadth equal to one half the
height, with gilded horn on each corner, and covered with gold.
Table ofShewbread:—On it twelve loaves of Shewbread, in two
piles of six loaves each, and cup with wine.
Altar of Perfumes:—On it an urn, with incense burning, size and
shape of Altar of Sacrifices.
All the altars should be covered with white cloths.
The Secret, afterwards Sacred Vault, is approached by a long nar¬
row passage of nine arches, between which and the Sacred Vault
should be a small ante-room; arches dimly lit by one lamp only,
hung from the cealing.
Hangings:—Crimson, with pillars at stated intervals.
Burning Bush in the East behind the Thrice Puissant; in its cen¬
tre the Ineffable Triangle.
Lightning Boxes, Torches, Thunder-drums, Trumpets, Organs,
Gongs, etc.
Thrice Puissant Grand Master, Crowned Compasses, with blazing
sun in the centre.
Deputy Grand Master King of Tyre, Crowned Compasses with
full moon in centre.
Venerable Senior Grand Warden, Gold Trowel.
Venerable Junior Grand Warden, Sword of Justice.
Grand Treasurer, Gold Key.
Grand Secretarv, Gold Pen.
Grand Orator, Gold Scroll.
Grand Master of Ceremonies, Staff.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON". 191
Grand Captain of the Guard, Spear.
Grand Hospitable Brother, Winged Staff.
Grand Senior Expert.
Grand Junior Expert.
Grand Tiler, Flaming Sword.
Grand Organist, Gold Lyre.
The jewels of all the officers are set in gold triangles, and are sus¬
pended irom collars of white watered silk, having a rosette of white
and red at the bottom.
The two Kings in royal robes, with crowns, sceptres, etc.
King Solomon:—Yellow robe or mantle, with a blue vestment and
an Eastern crown and sceptre.
King of Tyre:—Purple robe, with yellow vestment, richly trimmed
with fur and gold; Mural crown and sceptre.
Apron:—White watered silk, lined with white and bordered with
gold, triangular in form, and the Ineffable Delta in the centre.
Collar:—White watered silk, bordered with gold, from which is
suspended the
Jewel:—Crowned Quadrant, having a golden sun with nine points
in the centre; on the reverse is a blazing star; in the centre of the
star, the Enochian or Solomonian characters; upon the segment of
the circle are engraved 3, 5, 7, 9.
Ring:—Flat band of Gold; on the inside the following inscription:
" Virtus junxit Mors non separabit("Virtue unites what death
cannot separate.") Also the name of the owner, and date of receiv¬
ing this degree.
Girdle:—Nine colors; blue, red and yellow, 3; green and purple,
5; white and black, 7; stone and flame color, 9; all interwoven with
olive green.
Gloves:—White.
Robes:—Black, with caps and swords.
Battery:—3,— 5,-7,—9-
Age:—Square of 9=81.
192
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
OPENING.
T.-.P.-. (o) Officers and Brethren, be pleased to
assist me in opening this Lodge.
The illuminated Burning Bush is the only light. The Wardens
and two Kings take their stations, and all are clothed and seated.
T. \ P. •. o (Grand Tiler standing.) Brother Grand Tiler,
your station in a Lodge of Perfection ?
G.\ T.\ At the inner door of the Sacred Yanlt.
T.\ P.\ Your duty there?
G.\ T. \ To guard the Sacred Vault with care, and
allow no improper ingress or egress.
T.P.-. I present you with this flaming sword,
the implement of your office ; use it discreetly and
faithfully.
The Grand Tiler approaches the East, receives the sword ; salutes
and retires to his station.
T. P.'. O O (Captain of the Guard standing.) Brother
Captain of the Guard, your station \
C. of G.In the North, at the head of the Guard.
T. *. P. *. Your duty there ?
C.\ of G.\ To see that the Guard are duly posted,
and to provide for the accommodation of visiting
Brethren and members, and to aid the Officers in the
discharge of their duties.
T.P. Take the symbol of your office and at¬
tend to your duty.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 193
The Captain of the Guard receives the jewel and spear; salutes
and goes out, stations the Guards and gives them their orders. He
then returns, closes the door, retires to his station, and salutes the
Thrice Puissant with his sword, saying:
G'.of (jr.-. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, the
Guards are duly posted and the Lodge is well Tiled.
T.-. P. •. How are we tiled, Brother Grand Captain
of the Guard?
C. *. of Or. By three Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Masons at their posts as Sentinels, duly in¬
structed and vigilant.
T. \ P.\ It is well. Venerable Brother Senior
Grand Warden, what should be the second care of a
Lodge of Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Masons
when met together?
Senior Warden rises, salutes with his sword, and says:
8. \ W.\ Thrice Puissant Grand Master, to be cer¬
tain that all present are Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Masons.
T. \ P.*. Be pleased to ascertain that through the
Senior and Junior Grand Experts, after the ancient
manner.
8.-. W.\ Brothers Senior and Junior Experts, as¬
certain if all present are Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Masons, and for greater certainty receive
the (first or any other C. V. that may be fixed) covered word
from each Brother present, and come with it to the
West. Rise, Brethren, and to order.
All rise except the two Kings. The Wardens remain in their
stations. The Brethren form two lines and face the West, under
the sign of order. Beginning from the East, the Senior Expert
receives the Covered Word fixed upon from the Brethren in
the North, and the Junior Expert receives it from the Brethren in
13
194
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
the South, by approaching the Brethren in succession and touching
each on the shoulder. The Brother then facing about to the East
gives the word and remains faced to the East. (If any Brother can¬
not give the word, he will be reported by the Senior Expert to the
Senior Warden, if the Brother be in the North, or by thejunior Ex¬
pert to the Junior Warden, if the Brother be in the South. The
Warden so informed will direct the Brother to repair to the altar,
and will ask his name, and enquire if any known Brother can vouch
that he is a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason. Then, whether
vouched for or not, he will be sent to the ante-room in charge of the
Captain of the Guard, who will leave him there and return. When
the Lodge is opened, and not until then, if he is vouched for, or is
a member of the Lodge, he will be recalled and the word communi¬
cated to him by the Senior Warden. If not a member, or not vouched
for, the Experts will be sent to examine him; and if he proves him¬
self to be a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason, they will give
him the word, and return to the Lodge with him, when he will give
it to the Junior Grand Warden.) When the word has been received
from all, the Senior Expert will receive it from the Junior Expert at
the altar, and go and give it to the Junior Grand Warden, who will
go and give it to the Senior Grand Warden. The Senior Grand
Warden will go and give it to the King of Tyre, and he gives it to
the Thrice Puissant, who raps o, and all are seated.
S.'.W.'. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, we are
satisfied that all present are Grand, Elect, Perfect
and Sublime Masons. The word comes correctly to
the West.
T.\ P.-. It is well; the word comes correctly to
the East.
T. \ P. \ o o o
Captain of the Guard rises, draws his sword, salutes, and comes
to a carry.
T.'. P.'. O O O O O (All Officers rise except the Wardens,
and Kings.) Grand Hospitable Brother, your station ?
H. \ B.\ In the North, between the Grand Treas¬
urer and Grand Master of Ceremonies.
T. \ P.\ Your duty there?
GKA.NI), ELECT, PEREECT & SUBLIME MASOX. 195
II.-. B.-. To visit poor Brethren, and see that they
receive due attention ; take charge of the voluntary
contributions of the Brethren, and expend them
under the direction of the Thrice Puissant Grand
Master.
T. \ P. •. Receive the implement of your office, and
be swift to fiy to the relief of those who may need
your services.
The Hospitable Brother receives the jewel and winged rod ; sa¬
lutes and retires to his station.
T.-.P.-. Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies,
your station \
M.\ of C.\ In the North, Thrice Puissant Grand
Master.
T.\ P. \ Your duty there?
M.\ of C.\ To prepare all Candidates, and con¬
duct them as a faithful leader, in their mystic travels
on the road to perfection.
T.\ P.\ Take the implement of your office, and
be ready to execute all your duties; and may you
never be without a faithful leader during your earth¬
ly pilgrimage.
The Master of Ceremonies receives his jewel and staff; salutes
and retires to his station.
T. \ P.-. Brother Grand Orator, your place in the
Lodge ?
G. \ 0. \ In the South, near the Altar of Perfumes,
T.\ P.\ Your duty as Grand Orator %
G. \ Or. To make discourses in illustration of the
196
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Order ; to instruct new Brethren, and explain to them
the mysteries of Ineffable Masonry.
T.\ P.*. Receive the badge of yonr office, and may
you worthily represent the learned Brother Abdam-
on, of ancient times, who was deeply versed in hiero-
glyphical lore, and skillful to solve enigmas.
The Grand Orator receives his jewel and scroll; salutes and re¬
tires to his station.
T.\ P. . Brother Grand Secretary, your station.
G.-. 8.-. In the South, before the Altar of Per¬
fumes.
T.\ P.\ Your duty.
S.\ G.-. Under the direction of the Thrice Puis¬
sant Grand Master, to perform the correspondence
of the Lodge, to give notice to the Brethren of its
meetings, to register all its transactions, receive all
moneys and pay them over to the Treasurer, and es¬
pecially to be a faithful witness to all alliances made
with virtue and the virtuous.
T. •. P.\ With the zeal and discretion of our
ancient Brother Joabert, whom you represent, fulfill
the duties of your station. Receive the jewel of
your office.
The Grand Secretary receives his jewel ; salutes and retires to his
station.
T. \ P.-. Brother Grand Treasurer, your station ?
G.\ T.-. In the North, before the Altar of Shew-
bread.
T. •. P.-. Your duty?
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 197
G.\ T.m. To act as the representative of our ancient
Brother, who was intrusted with the keys of King
Solomon's Temple ; to securely keep all the funds of
the Lodge, pay them out as required, and render a
just account of all receipts and disbursements.
T.-. P.-. Receive this gold key, the badge of your
office.
The Grand Treasurer receives the jewel ; salutes and retires to
his station.
T. -. P.'. ooooooo (Wardens rise.) Venerable
Brother Junior Grand Warden, where is your station ?
J.-.W.-. In the South, on the right of the Senior
Grand Warden.
T.\ P.-. Your duty there, my Venerable Brother %
J.-.W.-. To preside in the absence of my three
superior officers, and to act as the representative of
our ancient Brother Joabert, who was engaged in a
difficult and dangerous undertaking for the honor
and glory of the Craft.
T. \ P. -. My Venerable Brother, what is the hour %
J.-.Wr. High Twelve, Thrice Puissant Grand
Master.
T.-. P. -. What do you understand by high twelve %
J.-..W.-. That the sun has gained its meridian
height, and darts its rays with greatest force upon
this Lodge.
T.'. P. \ It is time then to profit by its light. Let
your badge, the sword, remind you, my Brother,
that while justice overtakes and punishes the traitor¬
ous and guilty, it rewards the faithful and meritori¬
ous Brother.
198 FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
T. \ P.\ Venerable Senior Grand Warden, your
station ?
8. \W.\ In tlie West, Thrice Puissant Grand
Master.
T. •. P.-. Your duty?
is.-. IF.-. To assist the Thrice Puissant at all times
in the discharge of his duties ; and in his absence
and that of his Deputy, to preside in the Lodge.
Also to act as the representative of our ancient
Brother Adoniram, who had the inspection of all the
workmen of God's Holy Temple. In token of which
I hold this Trowel, the symbol of my office.
T.P.-. My venerable Brother, what brings you
here ?
S.\ IF". \ My love of Masonry, my obligations, and
a desire for perfection.
T. •. P. •. What are the proper qualities for acquir¬
ing these ?
8. \ IF •. A forgiving spirit, innocence, and benevo¬
lence.
T. •. P. -. In what manner ought we to conduct our¬
selves in this place ?
8.-. IF.\ With the most profound respect.
T.P.-. Why do men of all conditions of life as¬
semble here on the level of equality, as Brethren?
8. \ IF \ Because the Triangle reminds us that
there is one Being superior to all—the Grand Archi¬
tect of the Universe.
T.\ P.-. Why is respect paid to the Triangle?
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 199
S. \ W. ■. Because it contains the name of the great
"I AM;" who was, and is, and will be; and represent
the Wisdom, Strength and Beauty of the Universe.
T. \ P.-. oo o—o o o—o o o (All rise.) Venerable
Senior Grand Warden, where is the seat of the King
of Tyre %
S. \ TP. *. At your right hand, Thrice Puissant
Grand Master.
T. . P.His duty ?
8. -.TP.\ To act as your confederate, companion,
and deputy ; to exhibit the fellowship of our Royal
Art, and the happy effects of our alliance with virtue
and the virtuous.
T.\ P.-. Venerable Brother of Tyre, my station
and duty ?
K. ■. of T.\ In the East, Thrice Puissant Brother ;
to superintend and govern this Lodge ; to support
and maintain its constitutions and laws, and the
statutes and regulations, constitutions and laws of
Ineffable Masonry.
T.P.-. Venerable Brother Senior Grand Warden,
give notice that I am about to open a Lodge of
Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Masons, by the
perfect numbers 3, 5, 7, & 9.
IP.-. Venerable Brother Junior Grand Warden
and Brethren, the Thrice Puissant Grand Master is
about to open a Lodge of Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Masons, by the perfect numbers 3, 5, 7, & 9.
Assemble at the altar, and give your attention and
assistance to the work.
Music while the Brethren are assembling around the altar, where
they stand at salute, while the lesson is being read by the Thrice
Puissant, Senior Warden, and Junior Warden, who are still at their
stations.
200
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
LESSON.
T.\ P.*. The Lord is in his holy Temple; his eyes
behold and his eyelids try the children of men.
W.\ Lord, who shall stand in thy presence,
and who shall abide in thy tabernacle.
J.-. W.\ He that walketh uprightly and worketh
righteousness, and speaketh truth in his heart. He
that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil
with his neighbor ; but honoreth them that fear the
Lord.
T.-. P.-. Who shall ascend into the hill of the
Lord, or who shall stand in his holy place.
8.-.W. *. He that hath clean hands and a pure
heart ; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity,
nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive blessings
from the Lord, and righteousness from the Grod of
his salvation.
J. \ W.Lift up your heads, 0 ye gates ; and be
ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors ; and the King of
glory shall come in.
T. P. \ For now I have chosen and sanctified this
house, that my name might be there forever ; and
mine eyes and my heart shall be therein perpetually.
8. W. \ Who is this King of glory ?
J. \ W.\ The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord of
hosts ; our Adonai : He is the King of glory.
T. •. P.'. I will wash my hands in innocency, and
so will I encompass thine altar, O Jehovah.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 201
S.\ W.\ As for me, I will walk in my integrity ;
my foot standeth in an even place, and here will I
bless the Lord forever.
J.-. W.\ Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips
from speaking guile ; depart from evil and do good ;
seek peace and ensue it: thus saith the Lord of hosts,
amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause
you to dwell in this place forever.
T. •. P. \ But whoso confesseth his sins, and for-
saketh them, shall have mercy.
8.\ W. •. Who can say I have made my heart clean :
I am pure from sin, for there is not a just man on
earth that doeth good and sinneth not, no not one.
J. \ W. •. They shall fear the name of the Lord from
the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun.
T. •. P.-. From the rising of the sun even unto the
going down of the same, my name shall be great
among the Gentiles ; and in every place incense shall
be offered, and a pure offering ; for my name shall
be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts.
S.\ IF. \ Sing unto thetLord ; sing praises unto his
name ; extol Him that rideth in the heavens by his
name Jah, and rejoice before him.
J.-.W.-. He that discovereth deep things in the
darkness, and bringeth to light from the shadow of
death.
T.\ P.-. Gather together unto him those that have
made a covenant with him by sacrifice, and offer
up to him a holy libation with a perfect heart.
(TheT.\ P.". K ofT.\ S.\ G.\ W.\, and J/. G.\ W.\ here ap¬
proach the altar. Libation by the King ofTyre.) How excel¬
lent is thy loving-kindness and thy righteousness to
the upright of heart ; for with thee is the founda-
202
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
tion of life, and in tliy light shall we see the light
which shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
All kneel on left knee at 2d # for prayer.
PRAYER.
Almighty and Sovereign Grand Architect of the
Universe ; who, by thy divine power, doth continual¬
ly search and penetrate the most secret recesses of
oar hearts, draw near us, we beseech thee, by the
sacred tire of thy love. Guide us by thy unerring
hand, in the path of virtue ; and oat of thine ador¬
able presence aid us to keep all impiety and per-
verseness.
May the mysterious inscription settle in oar minds
a true notion of thine unspeakable essence and power,
as we preserve the memorials of thy fear. We be¬
seech thee, that our thoughts may be engaged, and
our hearts set, on the grand work of Perfection ;
which, when attained, will be an ample reward for
all oar labor.
Let peace and charity link us together in a pleas¬
ing union, and may this Lodge of Grand, Elect,
Perfect and Sublime Masons exhibit a faint re¬
semblance of that happiness the elect will enjoy in
thy Kingdom forever.
Give us a spirit to refuse the evil and choose the
good, that we may not be led astray by those who un¬
worthily assume the title of Grand Elect: may our
doings tend to thy glory, and our advancement
towards Perfection.
May a sweet perfume ascend from the altar of our
hearts, and be acceptable to thee, 0 God ! our
Adonai: Bless us, O God, and prosper the work of
our hands. Keep us through life, and accept us in
death. Amen. Amen. So mote it be.
The Grand Word is then received from the right, from each of
the Brethren.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON". 203
T.\ P. . o All rise, retire to their stations and give the # # up to
Perfection.
TV. P:. o o o All give first * of Perfection, and 3 lights in the
North are lighted by the Captain of the Guard.
T.'. P.'. o o o o o 2d * 5 lights in the South are lighted by the
Junior Warden.
T.\ P.\ 0000000 3rd * 7 lights in the West are lighted by
the Senior Warden.
T.\ P.'. 00 o—o o o— o o o * of Secrecy. The Senior and
Junior Grand Experts light up the 9 lights in the East.
7V. P.'. 00 o—0 000 0—0 00000 o—o o o—o o o—o o o
Master of Ceremony lights the Sun.
The Thrice Puissant with gavel ; the Senior Warden the trowel ;
the Junior Warden with sword ; and the Brethren with hands, give
the Battery. All draw swords, come to a carry, salute, and stand
at salute.
T. *. P. -. To the Glory of the Grand Architect of
the Universe, in the name and under the auspices of
the United Supreme Council of the Sovereign Grand
Inspectors General of the Thirty third and last de¬
gree of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Free¬
masonry for the Southern Jurisdiction of the Uni¬
ted States of America, and by virtue of the author¬
ity on me conferred, I declare this Grand Lodge of
Perfection open for the transaction of such business
as may regularly and constitutionally come before it.
Venerable Brother Senior Grand Warden, give no¬
tice to the Brethren and the Captain of the Guard.
S.-. TP. \ Venerable Brother Junior Grand Warden,
and Brothers Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime
Masons, this Lodge of Perfection is now open for the
dispatch of such business as may legally and consti¬
tutionally come before it. Brother Captain of the
Guard, inform the Guards, (o)
All take their seats and cover.
204
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
RECEPTION.
The Candidate, in white, clothed as a Knight of the Ninth, or
Royal Arch, is in the ante chamber, which represents the private
apartments of King.Solomon, near the entrance of the Sacret Vault.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies, with Candidate, o at entrance of
the arches.
Guard, o Who comes here % Who approaches the
first arch to the entrance of the Sacred Vault \
M.\ of C.\ A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
Guard. How does he expect to pass %
M. \ of U. \ By the benefit of the word of the first
arch.
1st Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Voj.
1st Guard. (To 2d Guard.) A Knight of the Ninth
Arch wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault.
This is repeated from Guard to Guard through the arches to the
Thrice Puissant Grand Master, in the Sacred Vault, who says:
T.\ P.\ Let the Knight of the Ninth Arch enter.
This answer is returned from Guard to Guard, throughout the
arches, to the first Guard at the entrance, who says:
1st Guard. It is well; pass on.
Candidate enters, and o o at the second arch.
2d Guard, o o Who comes here ? Who approaches
the second arch to the entrance of the Sacred Vault?
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 205
AT.\ of C.\ A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
2d Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
Mr. of C.\ By the benefit of the word of the sec¬
ond arch.
2d Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Ohej.
2d Guard. It is correct ; pass on.
The Candidate advances, and o o o at the third arch.
3d Guard, o o o Who comes here ? Who ap¬
proaches the third arch to the entrance of the Sacred
Vault %
AI.-. of Or. A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
3d Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
AI. \ of C.\ By the benefit of the word of the third
arch.
3d Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Ahuj.
3d Guard. It is correct; pass on.
The Candidate advances and o o o o at the fourth arch.
4th Guard, o o o o Who comes here? Who ap¬
proaches the fourth arch to the entrance of the Sa¬
cred Vault ?
206 FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
M.-.ofC.-. A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
4th Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
M.-. of C.\ By the benefit of the word of the
fourth arch.
4th Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Hayuh.
4th Guard. It is correct; pass on.
The Candidate advances, and o o o o o at the fifth arch.
5th Guard, ooooo Who comes here \ Who ap¬
proaches the fifth arch to the entrance of the Sacred
Yault ?
M. \ of C.\ A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
5th Guard. How does he expect to pass %
M. \ of C.-. By the benefit of the word of the fifth
arch.
5th Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Nobbegle.
5th Guard. It is correct; pass on.
The Candidate advances, and o o o o o o at the sixth arch.
6th Guard, o o o o o o Who comes here ? Who
approaches the sixth arch to the entrance of the Sa¬
cred Vault ?
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 207
M.\ of C.\ A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted, to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
6th Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
M.\ of C. \ By the benefit of the word of the sixth
arch.
6t7i Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Ianoda.
6th Guard. It is correct ; pass on.
The Candidate advances, and oooooooat the seventh arch.
7th Guard, o o o o o o o Who comes here ? Who
approaches the seventh arch to the entrance of the
Sacred Vault ?
M.-.ofC.-. A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
7th Guard. How does he expect to pass?
Mr. of C.\ By the benefit of the word of the sev¬
enth arch.
7th Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Nanikaj.
7th Guard. It is correct; pass on.
The Candidate advances, and ooooooooat the eighth arch.
8 th Guard, oooooooo Who comes here % Who
approaches the eighth arch to the entrance of the
Sacred Vault ?
208 FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
M.\ of C.-. A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to he admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
8th Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
M. •. of C.\ By the benefit of the word of the eighth
arch.
8th Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Haole.
8th Guard. It is correct; pass on.
The Candidate advances, and oooooooooat the ninth arch.
9 th Guard, ooooooooo Who comes here ?
Who approaches the ninth arch to the entrance of
the Sacred Vault ?
Mr. of O.'. A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who
wishes to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under the
Sanctum Sanctorum.
9th Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
M. -. of C.By the benefit of the word of the ninth
arch.
9th Guard. Give it me.
Cand. Htobezle.
9th Guard. It is correct; pass on.
The Master of Ceremonies and Candidate pass to the outer door
of the ante chamber, and o o o—o o o o o
Guard, o o o—o o o o o Who comes here ? who
approaches the outer door of the ante-chamber of
the Sacred Vault?
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT <fc SUBLIME MASON. 209
A Knigbt of the Ninth Arch, who,
having passed the Guards of the Nine Arches, now
solicits to be admitted to the Sacred Vault under
the Sanctum Sanctorum.
Guard. How does he expect to pass ?
M.\ of C.\ By the first word of a Grand, Elect,
Perfect and Sublime Mason.
Guard. Give it me.
Mr. of C.\ .ja. P.-. V.\
Guard. It is correct ; pass on.
The Master of Ceremonies and Candidate pass to the middle
door o o o—o o o o o—o o o o o o o
Guard, o o o—o o o o o—o o o o o o o Who comes
here? who approaches the middle door of the ante¬
chamber of the Sacred Vault?
M.of C.\ A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who,
having passed the Guards of the Nine Arches by tiie
word of each Arch, and also the outer door of the
ante-chamber by the first word of a Grand, Perfect
and Sublime Mason, now desires to be admitted to
the Sacred Vault under the Sanctum Sanctorum.
Guard. How does he expect to pass \
M. \ of C. \ By the second word of a Grand, Elect,
Perfect and Sublime Mason.
Guard. Give it me.
If.-, of C.\ .je. P.-.Vr.
Guard. It is correct; pass on.
14
210
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
The Master of Ceremonies and Candidate approach the entrance
of the Sacred Vault, o o o—o o o o o—o o o o o o o—o o o—o o o
—o o o
J. \ TP. \ 0 0 o—o o o o o—o o o o o o o—o o o—
o o 0—o o o
S. TP. *. O O O—O 0 0 0 O O 0 0 0 0 0 o—o o o—■
0 0 0 —0 o o
T. •. P. \ 0 0 o—O 0 0 0 O—O 0 0 0 0 0 o—o o o—
0 o 0—0 o o
C.\ of G.\ Brother Senior Grand Warden, there
is an alarm of 3, 5, 7 and 9, at the entrance of this
Sacred Vault.
S. \ W. \ Thrice Puissant Grand Master, there is
an alarm of 3, 5, 7 and 9, at the entrance of this
Sacred Vault.
T.-. P.-. Brother Junior Grand Warden, you will
see who knocks as a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sub¬
lime Mason, at the entrance of this Sacred Vault.
The Junior Grand Warden approaches, and opens the door.
J.-.W.'. What is the cause of this alarm at the
entrance of this Sacred Vault? who knocks as a
Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason \ Who
comes here %
M.-. of C.\ A Knight of the Ninth Arch, who,
having passed the Guards of the Nine Arches by
the passwords of a Knight of the Ninth Arch, (and
the outer and middle doors of the ante-chamber, by
the passwords of a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sub¬
lime Mason), now wishes to be admitted to the Sac¬
red Vault under the Sanctum Sanctorum, and arrive
at perfection.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 211
J.-.W.-. Has lie taken the symbolic and all the
preceding ineffable degrees in this Lodge of Perfec¬
tion ?
M. of C. Answer.
J.-. W.-. Is he truly worthy and well qualified?
M. of C. Answer.
J.-.W.-. Do you vouch for all this as a Grand,
Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason?
M. of C. Answer.
J.-. W.-. I must examine him as to his qualifica¬
tions and proficiency.
Junior Warden goes out and examines the Candidate, and says:
J.-. W.-. It is well. Give me the third word of a
Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason.
M -. of C.-. .ji. P.-.V.-.
J.-. W.-. You will await until the Thrice Puissant
Grand Master has been informed of your request.
The Junior Grand Warden re-enters the Sacred Vault, and re¬
turns to his station.
T.-. P.-. Venerable Brother Junior Grand War¬
den, what is the cause of this alarm ? who knocks as
a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason?
J.-. IF.-. A Companion Knight of the Ninth Arch,
who, having passed the Guards of the Nine Arches
by the password of a Knight of the Ninth Arch, and
the outer and middle doors of the ante chamber by
the passwords of a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sub¬
lime Mason, now wishes to be admitted to the Sac¬
red Vault under the Sanctum Sanctorum, and arrive
at perfection.
212
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
T.\ P.\ Has he taken the symbolic and all the
preceding degrees in this Lodge of Perfeciion %
J. W. Answer.
T. \ P.\ Has he made suitable proficiency in the
preceding degrees to enable him to arrive at perfec¬
tion \
J. W. Answer.
T. \ P. \ Is he worthy and well qualified ?
J. W. Answer.
T.\ P.\ Do you vouch for this as a Grand, Elect,
Perfect and Sublime Mason ?
J.\ W.'. I do vouch for him as such, and for the
word given as being correct.
T.-.P.'. Let him enter, and be placed in the
West.
J.-.W.'. Let him enter, and be placed in the
West.
C.-.ofG.'. [Opens the door.] Let him enter, and
be placed in the West.
Low wailing music. The Master of Ceremonies and Candidate
enter, and stand in the West. The luminous pillar is covered.
Music stops.
T. -. P. *. The Lord is in his holy Temple; his eyes
behold and his eyelids try the children of men.
S.-.Wr. Lord, who shall stand in thv presence,
and who shall abide in thy tabernacle.
J.-.W.'. He that walketh uprightly and worketh
righteousness, and speaketh truth in his heart. He
that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 213
with his neighbor ; but honoreth them that fear the
Lord.
T. \ P.\ Who shall ascend into the hill of the
Lord, or who shall stand in his holy place.
S. \W. \ He that hath clean hands and a pure
heart ; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity,
nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive blessings
from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of
his salvation.
J.W. *. Lift up your heads, O ye gates ; and be
ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors ; and the King of
glory shall come in.
T.-. P.\ For now I have chosen and sanctified this
house, that my name might be there forever ; and
mine eyes and my heart shall be therein perpetually.
S. *. W. \ Who is this King of glory ?
J.\ W.'. The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord of
hosts ; our Adonai : He is the King of glory.
T. \ P.\ I will wash my hands in innocency, and
so will I encompass thine altar, 0 Jehovah.
S.\ W. \ As for me, I will walk in my integrity ;
my foot standeth in an even place, and here will I
bless the Lord forever.
J.-. W.\ Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips
from speaking guile ; depart from evil and do good ;
seek peace and ensue it: thus saith the Lord of hosts,
amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause
you to dwell in this place forever.
T.-. Pr. But whoso confesseth his sins, and for-
saketh them, shall have mercy.
214
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
8. *. TP.Who can say I have made my heart clean :
I am pure from sin, for there is not a just man on
earth that doeth good and sinneth not, no not one.
J.TP. \ They shall fear the name of the Lord from
the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun.
T.'. P.-. From the rising of the sun even unto the
going down of the same, my name shall be great
among the Gfentiles ; and in every place incense shall
be offered, and a pure offering ; for my name shall
be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts.
S. \ W.\ Sing unto the Lord ; sing praises unto his
name ; extol Him that rideth in the heavens by his
name Jah, and rejoice before him.
He that discovereth deep things in the
darkness, and bringeth to light from the shadow of
death.
T. \ P.\ Gather together unto him those that have
made a covenant with him by sacrifice, and offer
up to him a holy libation with a perfect heart.
(The Master of Ceremonies now orders the Candidate to make the
* of adoration.) How excellent is thy loving-kindness
and thy righteousness to the upright of heart ; for
with thee is the foundation of life, and in thy light
shall we see the light which shineth more and more
unto the perfect day.
T.P.\ My Brother Knight of the Ninth Arch,
what is your desire \
The Master of Ceremonies prompts the Candidate.
Cand. To be made a Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Mason.
T.\ P. '. Before your request can be granted, and
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 215
gree of Perfection, you must satisfy us that you are
well versed in Ancient Craft Masonry : otherwise
you will have to continue your probation, and better
fit yourself for Perfection. Are you a Mason ?
Cand. I am.
T. \ P.\ Are you an Entered Apprentice Mason?
Cand. My Brethren all know me as such.
T. \ P.-. Give me the * and V. [Given.] Are
you a Fellow Craft Mason?
Cand. I have seen the letter G, and know the pass.
T. •. P.-. Give me the * and V. [Given.] Are you
a Master Mason ?
Cand.. I have seen the sprig of acacia, and know
what it means.
T.-.P.-. Give me the * and V. [Given.] Are you
a Secret Master?
Cand.. I have passed from the square to the com¬
pass extended to seven degrees.
T. \ P.\ Give me the * and V. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught in this degree?
Cand. The duty of secrecy and silence.
T.\ IV. Are you a Perfect Master?
Cand. I have seen the tomb of our Grand Master
H.\ A.*., and have, in company with my Brethren,
shed tears thereat.
T.\ P.'. Give me the * and V. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught in this degree ?
216 FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Cand. That we should pay due respects to the
memory of a deceased worthy Brother.
T. •. P. •. Are you an Intimate Secretary 1
Cand, My curiosity was gratified, but at nearly
the cost of my life.
T.\ P.-. Give me the * and V. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught by the degree of Intimate Secretary?
Cand. That we should be careful not to offend a
Brother by prying into his secrets unnecessarily, and
the criminality of eavesdropping.
T. \ P. \ Are you a Provost and Judge ?
Cand. I am ; and render justice to all men.
T.\ P.\ Give me the * and Y. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught by this degree ]
Cand. To render justice to my Brethren, and to
act impartially in my dealings with all men.
T. \ P.\ Are you an Intendant of the Building?
Cand. I have made the five steps of exaction ; I
have penetrated into the innermost parts of the Tem¬
ple, and have seen the great light in which are the
mysterious characters J. J. J.
T. \ P.\ Give me the * and Y. [Given.] What
lesson are you taught by the degree of Intendant of
the Building ?
Cand. That I should apply myself with diligence
and zeal u> whatever work may be required of me,
or allotted for me to do in the Temple, remembering
that the Lord seeth.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 217
T. \ P. -. Are you an Elect of.Nine ?
Cand. A cavern received me ; a lamp lighted me ;
and a fountain refreshed me.
T.\ P.\ Give me the * and V. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught by the degree of Elect of Nine %
Cand.. That I should be careful how I allow my¬
self to be carried away by an excess of zeal, even in.
a good cause ; to execute justice, as an individual,
for the violation of divine or human laws.
T. \ P.-. Are you an Illustrious Elect of Fifteen ?
Cand. My zeal and works have procured me that
honor.
T. \ P.\ Give me the * and V. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught in this degree 1
Cand. That the traitor and violator of his obliga¬
tion will not go unpunished.
T. \ P.\ Are you a Sublime Knight Elected ?
Cand. My name will inform, you.
T. •. P.-. What is that name?
Cand. Ameth or Truth.
T. \ P. ■. What is the lesson taught in this degree?
Cand. That the true and faithful Brother will
sooner or latter receive his just reward.
T. \ P. -. Give me the * and V. [Given.] Are you
a Grand Master Architect ?
Cand. I know the use of mathematical instruments.
218
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
T.P.\ Give me the * and V. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught in this degree ?
Cand. That virtue is as necessary as talents to
every one who aspires to the rank of Grand Master
Architect.
T. \ P.-. Are you a Royal Arch Mason?
Cand. I have penetrated into the bowels of the
earth through nine arches, and brought from thence
a treasure to enrich the Temple of the Most High
God.
T.m. P.\ Give me the * and Y. [Given.] What is
the lesson taught in this degree 1
Cand. That difficulties and dangers, however great,
should not deter the true and zealous Brother from
progressing onward to perfection.
T. \ P.-. What is your quality ?
Cand. A Knight of the Ninth, or Royal Arch.
T. P. What is your name ?
Cand. Gibulum.
T.\ P.-. My Brethren, Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Masons : you have heard the answers of our
Brother Knight of the Ninth Arch, as to his Masonic
acquirements. Are you fully satisfied, and willing
that he be exalted to our highest mysteries, and re¬
ceive the sublime and mysterious degree of Perfec¬
tion. If so, give the * of assent.
This part of the ceremony should be very solemn and impressive.
It should not be considered a mere ceremony, but a matter of
serious fact. Objections to the Candidate should be made by a
member openly, or by the sign of dissent; when the Most Puissant
will say:
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 219
T. \ P.-. My Brother Knight of the Ninth Arch,
there is some objection to your proceeding further.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, you will retire
with the Candidate to the ante-room, and in due time
he shall be recalled.
The Master of Ceremonies and Candidate withdraw to the ante¬
room, and in a few minutes the Thrice Puissant will say:
T.\ P.-. Brother Junior Grand Warden, let the
Candidate be again admitted.
Junior Grand Warden goes to the door, opens it, and says:
J. \ W. \ Let the Candidate be admitted.
Master of Ceremonies enters with the Candidate and conducts
him to the altar.
T.\ P.*. My Brother, a further test of your
worthiness is required. Before you can proceed
any further, it will be necessary for you to answer
a few questions. I pray you to give each of them
your candid consideration, and answer accordingly,
as if in the presence of the Holy One, whose eyelids
try the children of men. If these questions are fav¬
orably answered, the Brother may be induced to
withdraw his objections.
These objections may be read from a paper, that the Candidate
may deem they are written for him in particular.
Have you ever willfully revealed any of the secrets
of Freemasonry %
Candidate answers.
Have you always, as far as lay in your power,
been charitable to your Brethren ?
Candidate answers.
Have you ever defrauded a Brother Mason ?
Candidate answers.
220
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Are you in the liabit of using the name of God
profanely, and of willfully violating any of his com¬
mandments ? "
Candidate answers.
Does your conscience accuse you of any offence
against your Brethren which ought to debar you
from receiving this degree I
Candidate answers.
Have you always been mindful of the obligations
yon have contracted in the presence of the Grand
Architect of the Universe ?
Candidate answers.
Have yon answered these questions in sincerity of
heart, and without any reservation or evasion of
mind ?
Candidate answers.
T. \ P. -. Brother Senior Grand Warden, you will
have the Brother conducted to the brazen salver in
the South, that, as a token of his purity and inno¬
cence, he may wash and be clean ; so that, pure and
unspotted, he may be fitted to appear in the pres¬
ence of the Lord, and also as a token of the purity
of his intentions. Our fathers used this same cere¬
mony of ablution when they were accused of crime,
in order to prove their innocence.
S.-. IF.-. Brother Master of Ceremonies, conduct
the Candidate to the brazen salver in tlie South, that
he may wash and be clean.
The Master of Ceremonies conducts the Candidate around the
Lodge room to the brazen salver, and directs him to wash and wipe
his hands. While tne Candidate washes, the Commandments are
read. Low music.
And God spake all these words, saying, I am the
Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the
land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 221
Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image,
or anjf likeness of any thing that is in heaven above,
or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water
under the earth : thou shalt not bow down thyself
to them, nor serve them : for I the Lord thy God am
a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers
upon the children, unto the third and fourth gen¬
eration of them that hate me; and showing mercy
unto thousands of them that love me and keep my
commandments.
Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God
in vain ; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that
taketh his name in vain.
Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six
days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work : but the
seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God : in
it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor
thy daughter, thy man servant, nor thy maid ser¬
vant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within
thy gates : for in six days the Lord made heaven and
earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the
seventh day : wherefore the Lord blessed the Sab¬
bath day, and hallowed it.
Honor thy father and thy mother ; that thy days
may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God
hath given thee.
Thou shalt not kill.
Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Thou shalt not steal.
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neigh¬
bor.
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house, thou
shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his man ser¬
vant, nor his maid servant, nor his ox, nor his ass,
nor any thing that is thy neighbor's.
Music stops.
My Brethren, Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime
Masons, do you now consent that this, our Brother,
222
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
be admitted among us, and receive our highest mys¬
teries ? If so, give the sign of assent. [Given.]
My Brother, remember that if you now approach
our most sacred and solemn mysteries with coldness
and indifference, not mindful of your obligation, you
will have more to answer for in the great and awful
day, when the secrets of all hearts are made known.
Approach, my Brother, by nine steps, and kneel
at this altar, and contract your obligation of a Grand,
Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason.
The Master of Ceremonies instructs the Candidate to approach
the altar by eight and one steps, and directs him to kneel.
T.\ P.\ ooo Assemble, my Brothers.
All assemble around the altar, forming a delta.
OBLIGATION.
I, , of my own free will and accord, most
solemnly promise and swear, by the holy four-letter
name, in the presence of Him who dwelleth between
the Clierubims and this Lodge of Grand, Elect, Per¬
fect and Sublime Masons about me assembled, that
I will never reveal the secrets or mysteries of this
sublime degree to any person or persons, except those
lawfully qualified to receive the same, or in a body
of a just, perfect and regular Lodge of Perfection ;
That I will not be concerned, aid, or assist is con¬
ferring this degree of Perfection upon any one, un¬
less he has taken the three symbolic degrees of En¬
tered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason,
and the ineffable degrees of Secret Master, Perfect
Master, Intimate Secretary, Provost and Judge, In-
tendant of the Building, Elect of Nine, Elect of Fif¬
teen, Sublime Knight Elect, Grand Master Architect,
and Royal Arch, in a regular and constitutional
manner, and that to my full and entire satisfaction;
That I will not be concerned, aid, or assist in con¬
ferring this degree of Perfection 011 any one, unless
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 223
it shall be in a regular Lodge of Perfection, or by
constitutional power or authority to do so ;
That I will not be present, aid, or assist in con¬
ferring this degree upon any one whose life and
character I doubt or disapprove ;
That I will never but once, in the whole course of
my life, pronounce the true ineffable name, the mys¬
terious word of this degree of Grand, Elect, Perfect
and Sublime Mason ;
That I will, if possible, meet my Lodge at least
twice a year, on the twenty-seventh day of December
and the twenty-fourth day of June, and as much oft-
ener as my affairs will jjermit me to do with conven¬
ience ;
That I will never take up arms against my coun¬
try, nor directly or indirectly enter into any cabal
or conspiracy against it; and if it comes to my knowl¬
edge that any intention of taking up arms or a con¬
spiracy against my country is entertained by others,
that I will give notice of, and communicate the same
to the proper authorities ;
That I will aid with my counsel and my purse all
worthy Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Masons
in sickness or distress, upon their making applica¬
tion to me as such, as far as lies in my power so to do ;
That I will not debauch or dishonor any female
related to a Brother of this degree, either by blood
or marriage, knowing her to be such ;
That I will maintain and support the by-laws, rules
and regulations of this or any other Lodge of Perfec¬
tion of which I may become a member, and also ac¬
knowledge and support the authority of the United
Supreme Council of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors
General for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United
States of America, by whose sanction this Lodge is
established, and its constitutions, statutes and gen¬
eral regulations for the government of Lodges of
Perfection, so far as the same may come to my knowl¬
edge ;
To all of which I promise and swear, binding my¬
self under no less a penalty than having my body
224
FOURTEENTH D EGREE.
severed in twain, if I willfully violate this my sol¬
emn obligation. So help me God. Amen ! Amen!
Amen!
My Brother, you will now thrice salute the volume
of the sacred law.
The Candidate still kneeling, the altar of incense is lighted; the
cloth covering the luminous pedestal and cube of agate is removed;
the Brethren make three * *; the Master of Ceremonies brings the
oil and trowel; the Junior Grand Warden uncovers the heart of the
Candidate.
T. •. P. \ Before the altar of a broken and contrite
heart, with the lire of holy zeal, mortify your sins
by the hatred thereof. May we all offer up to Him
on the altar of our hearts a sacrifice of humility and
praise, with the fire of fervent charity. From our
hearts, too, those altars of incense, may the perfume
of our prayers arise for the bestowment of heavenly
blessings.
Let us pray.
All kneel, and second * of Perfection.
PRAYER.
Almighty and Soverign Grand Architect of the
Universe, thou who ridest in the heavens by thy
name Jah, let all the earth keep silence before thee.
There is no God like unto thee in the heavens above
or in the earth beneath, who keepeth covenant and
showeth mercy unto thy servants that walk before
thee with all their hearts.
When we draw nigh thy majesty, may we ever
preserve the memorials of thy fear and the indelible
character of thine ineffable essence in our hearts.
O purify our hearts, we beseech thee, by the fire of
thy holy love, and guide our feet in the way of
peace, and in the perfect path which sliineth more
and more, with a shining light, unto the perfect day.
Gil AND, ELECT, PERFECT <V SUBLIME MASON. 225
May we all have an interest in that covenant which
is well ordered, in all things and sure. May we
dwell together in unity, and be all of one mind, hav¬
ing compassion one to another, and love as Brethren.
May all Elect Masons, like the Elect of G; d, put
on charity, which is the bond of perfection. May
our loins be girt about with the girdle of truth, and
finally, having been faithful in all our course, may
we be brought to behold the light ineffable, and ad¬
mitted into that sacred place where the sun shall no
more give light by day ; neither for brightness shall
the moon give light, but the Lord, our Adonai, shall
be with us an everlasting light, and our Gfod our
glory.
Bless us, and bless the work in which Ave are en¬
gaged ; and may the alliance we are about to per¬
fect, be eternal. Amen ! So mote it be !
T. \ P. \ I will now, my Brother, proceed to anoint
you with the holy oil wherewith the pious Aaron,
the penitent David, and the wise Solomon were
anointed ; and impress you with ail ardent zeal for
the honor and glory of the Grand Architect of the
Universe, to the end that you may always live in his
adorable presence, with a head disposed to contrive,
a heart to feel, and a hand to execute all those things
toward him and your fellow-creatures, which are so
well pleasing in his sight.
Anointing eyes, lips and heart with oil.
" Behold how good and pleasant it is for Brethren
to dwell together in unity. It is like the precious
ointment on the head, that ran down on the beard,
even Aaron's beard, that went down to the skirts of
his garments."
Ointment and perfume rejoieetli the heart ; so doth
the sweetness of a man's friend by hearty counsel.
"Let him xeprove me, it shall be an excellent oil,
which shall not break my head."
15
226
F0URTEENTII DEGREE.
" If thy Brother be waxen poor and old, and fal¬
len to decay, thou shalt relieve him." Give of thy
bread to the hungry and of thy wine to cheer the
heart of the sorrowful, and forget not to pour the
oil of consolation into the wounds that sorrow, sick¬
ness or affliction hath rent into the heart of thy
fellow-traveler. By kindness and commiseration,
fail not to pour the balm of oil and wine into the
bleeding heart. Our labor of duty and love will
soon be ended ; as the lightning writes its fiery path
on the dark cloud aud expires, so the race of man,
walking amid the surrounding shades of mortality,
glitter for a moment through the dark gloom, and
vanish from our sight forever.
The candidate rises. Here a bursting forth of lightning and
thunder should transpire, and the lights be suddenly dim, and the
room be filled as with a cloud ; the organ suddenly peals forth a
solemn strain, with trumpets, and a voice be heard, saying or sing¬
ing :—" Praise the Lord, for he is good, for his mercy endureth
forever."
You will now, my Brother, partake with me, and
these Brethren about you assembled, of the ancient
aroba, a pledge or covenant of friendship, by eating
or drinking together. In the ancient covenant sac¬
rifices, there was a division made of the parts, and
the persons entering the alliance were to eat of
those parts, as an agreement of their mutual league
of friendship. In like manner, and for like pur¬
poses, I now divide this Eat of the same with me
and these Brethren, and drink also of the same cup,
that we may learn thereby to succor each other in
time of need, by a mutual participation in what we
possess.
The Thrice Pussiant breaks the bread in two parts, and gives the
King of Tyre one portion ; the Brethren pass between them from
the right, each one taking a piece as he passes, and resuming his
station ; destroy what is left. The wine is passes to each Brother
to the right, all drinking of the same cup ; then, still standing in a
circle, the Thrice Pussiant presenting the ring says :
GRANI), ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 227
T. \ P.-. My dear Brother, receive tills pure gold
ring, and let it be worn by you as a symbol of
tile alliance you have contracted with virtue and the
virtuous ; the inscription on the ring is, Virtus
junxit Mors non separabit—("Virtue unites what
death cannot separate"); the ring itself is aa em¬
blem of eternity, and, with the inscription, symboli¬
zes the eternal nature of virtue, with which you are
now irrevocably allied and in covenant.
You are never to part with it, my Brother, while
you have life, nor at your death, except to leave it
to your eldest son, your wife, or your dearest friend.
Let us now, my Brethren, in commemoration of
this alliance of virtue and the virtuous with our
venerable Brother, offer up, according to ancient
usage, a holy libation.
The King of Tyre performs the libation ; flames of incense burst
forth, and the altar of incense is replenished. The Brethren, in a
circle around the altar of sacrifices, hand in hand, sing the following
ODE.
Lo ! Nature guards our vestal fire,
Which never, never can expire ;
With hearts that never change or falter,
We here surround one common altar.
Religion builds it, and a beam
From Heaven's own throne ; no fitful gleam
Wraps it in flames, while hand in hand
[Here flames burst from the altar.]
We round this blazing altar stand.
Let us, as Elect Masons true,
Virtue's eternal league renew ;
While celebrating Friendship's feast,
May love e'er be a welcome guest. [All kneel.1
Let us in adoration bow
To Him who hears and seals each vow.
Glory to God, who reigns above,
And to our fellow-creatures—love. [All rise.]
228
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
All resume their seats, except Candidate and Master of Ceremo¬
nies.
T. •. P.-. o My Brother, that which I shall now
communicate to you, I trust, will make you accom¬
plished in Ancient Craft Masonry : the *, pv,
ov, ancl Gr. Inef. v. of a Grand, Elect, Perfect and
Sublime Mason.
There are three signs, three tokens, three pass¬
words, three covered words, and one Grand Inefiable
Word to this degree.
Here the Candidate is instructed in the signs, words, grips, etc.,
from i to 13, and the T.\ P.". may dilate on the secrets and mys¬
teries.
T. \ P. \ Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, you
will now communicate to the Candidate the signs,
tokens, passwords and covered words of a Grand,
Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason.
The Master of Ceremonies communicates the .H. # .H. .H.
P.\V.\ and .H. C.\V.\ to the Candidate (low music) and then con¬
ducts him to the Senior Warden. (Music stops )
8. - W.\ The Ineffable Tetragrammaton, or four-
letter name, which it is not lawful for man to speak,
except in a peculiar manner, and which you in your
obligation promised never but once in the whole
course of your life to pronounce, will in due time be
communicated to you.
You have been made acquainted with the fact that
the true name of God was revealed to Enoch, and
that he engraved that name upon a triangular plate
of pure gold, and deposited it in the bowels of the
earth ; that name is called the Tetragrammaton, or
holy four-letter name ; the characters used by Enoch,
and which have been explained to you in the pre¬
ceding degree, differ materially from the Hebrew,
not only in the form of the letters, but each had
different powers.
GUAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON". 229
The ineffable name of God, in different ages of
the world, received different pronunciations, and
varied with the country and language of the speaker.
Its pronunciation underwent many changes, which
are called Ages of Masonry. They are 3, 5, 7 and
9—the mysterious numbers of this degree.
After the death of Enoch, the true pronunciation
was lost, and the ineffable word was called—
By Methuselah.
Lantech and
Noah.
THIKD AGE.
Juha, or Yuhaw.
By Shem.
Arphaxad,
!Selah,
Eber, and
Peleg.
FIFTH AGE
^ Jeva, or Yewa.
I
J
By Rue.
Seneg,
Nalier,
Terah,
Abraham,
Isaac, and
J acob.
SEVENTH AGE.
Jova, or Yowa.
By Hezon.
Earn,
Aminadab,
N asson,
Salmon,
Boaz,
Obed,
Jevo.
Jeva, or
Yewa.
'^Johe, or
I Yohan.
NINTH AGE.
One period,
but differ¬
ently pro¬
nounced
by differ
ent tribes.
Jes^e, and ) Jehovah, or
David ) Ye ho-wah.
230
fourteenth degree.
The true name having been revealed to Enoch and
Moses, they were not included in the enumeration.
You will now, my Brother, be permitted to pro¬
nounce that great and solemn name—tile grand,
mysterious word of a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sub¬
lime Mason—which, from the days of Enoch to the
present time, has ever bern deemed unlawful for
man to speak. (The word is communicated by the Senior and
Junior Grand Wardens.)
You will now, my Brother, speak the word : this
word defines the essence of God : his existence, his
unity, his goodness, his providence, and his eternity.
The lights, prior to this, having been gradually dimmed, as the
C.\ pronounces the word, lightning and thunder burst forth ; the
organ and trumpets are also heard ; the cloth covering the lumi¬
nous pedestal and cube of agate is removed ; the Brethren make
the second *, and chant " Praise the Lord, for he is good; for his
mercv endureth forever."
S.\ W.\ God commanded Moses to tell the child¬
ren of Israel, "I shall be" hath sent me unto you.
Every creature can say I am or was. but God only
call himself I shall be.
That the children of Israel might might not be
misled by Jehovah calling himself I shall be, and
lest they might suppose that he was not and had
been before with them, he declared himself by his
ineffable name, which signifies that " he is, and was,
and shall be without beginning and without end."
This is the Tetragrammaton. or four-letter name
Pythagoras learned from the ancient mysteries, and
which he afterwards cultivated, and taught to his
worthy disciples in his lodge at Crotona (which, in
the joy of his heart, he called Eureka.}
A name given through inspiration by God himself ;
no man could have invented one word, in any lan¬
guage, of so comprehensive, so expressive, and so
sublime a meaning.
The Grand Architect of the Universe, though he
is only one essence, yet He has many names founded
on his attribute ; on which point, in the degree of
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 231
Secret Master, you have already received much in¬
struction : by his name He pours down upon us his
creatures the rich blessings of his providence, and
that richest of all blessings, even life for evermore.
The mysterious words you received in all the pre-
ceeding degrees are so many corruptions of this true
name, which was engraven on this golden plate or
delta of Enoch, which he deposited in the depths of
the earth. That word, which you have just pro¬
nounced, is called the Ineffable Word, and hence
these degrees are Ineffable. This word, you will
recollect, was not found until after the death of
Hiram Abiff : it was the name which God promised
some of the Ancient Patriachs should, in the full¬
ness of time, be brought, with great labor and zeal,
from the bowels of the earth, and which he promised
should be in the Temple at Jerusalem.
(S'w.v music.) The Waster of Ceremonies conducts the Candi¬
date around the room to the Thrice Puissant. (Music stops.)
INVESTITURE.
T. \ P. •. I shall now, my Brother, invest you with the
apron, girdle, collar and jewel of a Grand, Elect,
Perfect and Sublime Mason ; and with the greatest
pleasure salute you with the title, and grace you
with the symbols thereof.
The collas is emblematical of ardent zeal, affection
and charity. The crown upon jewel is a symbol of
the Royal origin of the degree. The compass, ex¬
tended to ninety degrees, denotes the extensive
knowledge of the Grand Elect. The sun, in the cen¬
tre, that our actions should be as open as the full
blaze of the 110011-day sun, and our charity as diffu¬
sive as its beams. This jewel, suspended upon your
breast, should make you attentive to your duties,
and cause you to walk so as to adorn your station.
The apron, my Brother, which you wear, is white,
lined with white, and bordered with gold. The
white is to remind us of innocence, and of that purity
232
FOURTEENTH DEGKEE.
which was required for an entrance to this place ;
the gold, of wisdom, which should characterize all
Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Masons. Its
form is supposed to be the true form used by the
Perfect Master Mason at the building of the Temple,
and alludes to the golden tringle or delta of Enoch,
which adorns the centre.
The girdle, which I also invest you with, is the
ancient girdle of a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sub¬
lime Mason. It was used of old to bind up and
strengthen the body, and enable man to persist in
his labors : it is, therefore, an emblem of activity,
promptness and perseverance. The girdle was also
used to bind up the garments, and prevent them
from living open, and discovering their nakedness ;
it is, therefore, an emblem of charity, the observance
of which has laid you under renewed obligations.
It was also used for beauty and ornament. Let it
be your endeavor to be adorned and rich in the many
virtues and qualities which are represented by its
various colors.
The colors are arranged according to the mystic
numbers of this degree—3, 5, 7 and 9.
The three are blue, red and yellow, by the due
mixture of which the primitive colors are al 1 formed.
The five consist of the first three, and green and
purple.
The seven consist of the first five, and of white and
black.
The nine consist of the first seven, and of stone and
flame color. They are thus explained ;
The blue is an emblem of friendship ; the red of
zeal ; the yellow of wisdom, on account of its resem¬
blance to gold. Wisdom, saith the wisest of kings,
is far better than fine gold. The green is a beautiful
emblem of hope, and of that immortal part of man
which never, never dies ; the purple, being a royal
color, of dignity and majesty ; the white of purity
and innocence ; the black of seriousness and modest-
ness of demeanor. The next color is that of stone,
which denotes firmness and durability, and is an em-
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 233
blem of constancy, fidelity and decision of character
—qualities which should be possessed by those who
take the decree of Grand Master Architect, and at¬
tempt to walk in the footsteps of our Grand Master
H. \ A. *. ; and the fiame color of ardent affection and
charity, the peculiar traits of a Grand, Elect, Per¬
fect and Sublime Mason.
The various colors united in this one girdle are
expressive of that unity, nnd the olive interwoven of
that peace, which should link us together as Brethren.
As these various colors shine in your girdle, so let
tile various virtues they represent shine in your heart
and life.
Thus, my Brother, by your meritorious and un¬
blamable conduct, assiduity, constancy and integ¬
rity, you have at last attained the title of Grand,
Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason, which is the sum¬
mit of Ancient Craft Masonry, and upon your ar¬
rival to which I most sincerely congratulate you.
I most earnestly recommend to you the strictest
care and circumspection in all your conduct, that
the sublime mysteries of this degree be not profaned
or disgraced.
As to what remains of completing your knowledge
of Ancient Craft Masonry, you will find by attend¬
ing to the history of the degree, and a careful study
of its mysteries.
You will now proceed to the Grand Orator in the
South, who will instruct you in the
HISTORY.
G.0.'. My Brother, you were informed in the
degree of Royal Arch that King Solomon builded a
secret vault, the approach to which was through
eight other vaults, all under ground, and to which a
long and narrow passage led from the palace. The
ninth arch or vault, was immediately under the Holy
of Holies of the Temple. In that apartment King
234
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Solomon held his private conferences with King Hi¬
ram and Hiram Abif. After the death of Hiram
Abif, the two kings ceased to visit it, resolving not
to do so until they should select one to fill his place,
and that, until that time, they would make known
the sacred name to no one. After Adoniram, Joa-
bert and Stolkin had discovered tiie cube of agate
and the mysterious name, and had delivered it to
King Solomon, the two-kings determined to deposit
it in the secret vault, permit the three Masters who
discovered it to be present, make known to them the
true pronunciation of the ineffable word, constitute
the last degree of Ancient Craft Masonry, and term
it Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason.
The cube of agate was so deposited on a twisted
column of white marble, called the Pillar of Beaut}'.
Afterwards, the twelve Princes of Ameth, the Nine
Elect, and the Chief Architect, were admitted to this
degree. The secret vault was thereafter called Sa¬
cred Vault, and was originally built by Hiram Abif,
and none but Grand. Elect, Perfect and Sublime Ma¬
sons knew of its existence, or knew other than the
substituted word.
The Temple was completed in the year 3000—six
years, six months and ten days after King Solomon
had laid the first corner stone ; and its completion
was celebrated with great pomp and splendid mag¬
nificence.
Subsequently, while the Temple was being dedi¬
cated, King Solomon conferred this sublime degree
on the twenty-live Brethren we have mentioned, and
in the form you have but now witnessed.
And when the singers and trumpeters were to make
one sound in praise and thanks to the Lord, saying,
" Praise the Lord, for he is good ; for his mercy en-
dureth forever that the Temple was filled with a
cloud, and the name was fully pronounced.
On the second day an audience was given to all
Masons, from the degree of Master to the Royal
Arch, and all vacancies were filled.
On the third day, King Solomon devoted his time
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT SUELME MASON. 235
to advancing and raising Fellow Crafts and Entered
Apprentices.
Thus far the wise King of Israel behaved worthy
of himself, and gained universal admiration ; but in
process of time, when he had advanced in years, his
understanding became impaired ; he grew deaf to
the voice of the Lord, and was strangely irregular in
his conduct. Proud of having erected an edifice to
his Maker, and much intoxicated with his great
power, he plunged into all manner of licentiousness
and debauchery, and profaned the Temple by offer¬
ing incense to the idol Moloch, which only should
have been offered to the living God. The Grand,
Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason saw this, and were
sorely grieved, being fearful that his apostacy would
end in some dreadful consequences, and perhaps bring
upon th^rn those enemies whom Solomon had vainly
and wantonly delied. The people, copying the fol¬
lies and vices of their king, became proud and idol¬
atrous, neglecting the true worship of God for that
of idols.
As an adequate punishment for this defection,
God inspired the heart of Nebuchadnezzar, King of
Babylon to take vengeance upon the kingdom of
Israel. This prince sent an army with Neimzar-adan,
captain of the guards, who entered Judah with lire
and sword, took and sacked the city of Jerusalem,
razed its walls, and destroyed that superb model of
excellence, the Temple. The people were carried
away captive to Babylon, and the conqnerous carried
away with them all tiie vessels of gold and silver.
This happened four hundred and seventy years,
six months and ten days after the dedication. After
the city was taken, and the king's palace and the
Temple demolished, some of the Grand Elect Masons
bethought themselves of the Sacred Vault and the
inestimable treasure it contained. Repairing to the
ruins of the Temple at night, they found that the
way which led down to the vault had not been dis¬
covered, nor the slab of marble which covered it dis¬
turbed ; but upon it they found the dead body of
236
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Galaad, an eminent Brother, and Chief of the Le-
vites. He had been intrusted with the custody of
the Sacred Vault and the care of the lamps that
burned continually within the pedestal of alabaster
or marble, on which stood the cube of agate, upon
which, inscribed on the triangular plate of gold, was
the ineffable name. He, like Hiram Abif, lost his
life rather than reveal this word.
Removing the body, and descending into the vault,
they erased the sacred letters from the plate of gold,
broke the plate in pieces, placed the cube of agate
in a corner of the vault, and covered it with rubbish;
extinguished the lamps, and overturned the pedestal.
Then, ascending, they conveyed the body of Galaad
into the vault, and laid it down by the overturned
pedestal, clad in his masonic clothing, and wearing
the insignia and jewels of a Grand, Elect, Perfect
and Sublime Mason. A brief and solemn ceremony
of masonic burial was then performed, when they
reascended, replaced the slab of marble, and heaped
stones and timber upon the spot.
It was then determined never again to write the
name, but to hand it down by tradition only in syl¬
lables, without ever pronouncing the entire word.
This pronunciation is confided to none but those who
have received tne degree, and then in a whisper.
Once each year the word was repeated by syllables
in the Temple, the Brethren forming a circle, the
High Priest repeating the syllables to a Brother on
the right, who repeated them to the one next to him,
and so they passed round the circle, and returned to
the High Priest ; while a great noise was heard with¬
out the Temple with trumpets and instruments of
music, that none might hear the sacred syllables.
Finally, when the time arrived that the Christian
Princes entered into a league to free the Holy Land
from the oppression of the Infidels, the good and
virtuous Masons, anxious for so pious an undertak¬
ing, offered their services to the confederates, upon
condition that they should have a chief of their own
election, and whose name was only made known in
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON". 237
the h our of battle, which being granted, they ac¬
cepted their standard and departed.
The valor and fortitude of these Elected Knights
were such that they were admired by, and took the
lead of, all the Princes of Jerusalem, who, believing
that their mysteries inspired them with courage and
fidelity to the cause of virtue and religion, became
desirous of being initiated. Upon being found wor¬
thy, their desires were complied with, and thus the
Royal Art, meeting the approbation of great and
good men, became popular and honorable, and was
diffused to the worthy throughout these dominions,
and thus continued to spread far and wide through
a succession of ages to the present day.
You will now, my Brother, be seated among the
Grand Elect.
CLOSING.
T.\ P.\ o [Grand Tiler rises.] Brother Grand Tiler,
your station in a Lodge of Perfection \
G.\ T.-. At tlie inner door of the Sacred Vault.
T. \ P. \ Your duty there ?
G. \ T. *. To guard the Sacred Yault with care, and
allow no improper ingress or egress.
T.P.\ Having performed your duty, you will
return your jewel and implement of your office to the
East.
Grand Tiler returns his jewel, salutes and retires.
T.m. P.'. ooo [Captain of Guard rises.] Brother Cap¬
tain of the Guard, your station I
C.\ of G. \ In the North, at the head of the Guards.
T. *. P.'. Your last, as well as your first duty ?
238 FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
Or. of G.\ To see that the Guards are at their
stations, and that the Sacred Vault is secure.
T.\ P.*. Attend to that duty.
C.\ of G.'. It is done, Thrice Puissant. We are
secure.
T. •. P. \ Having performed your duty, you will
return your jewel to the East, and retire to your
station.
Captain of the Guard does so; salutes and resumes his station.
T.'. P.*. OOOOO (All Officers rise except the Wardens,
and Kings.) Grand Hospitable Brother, your station ?
H.B.\ In the North, between the Grand Treas¬
urer and Grand Master of Ceremonies.
T. •. P. \ Your duty there ?
H. •. B.\ To visit poor Brethren, and see that they
receive due attention ; take charge of the voluntary
contributions of the Brethren, and expend them
under the direction of the Thrice Puissant Grand
Master.
T. •. P.-. Having performed your duty, you will
return your jewel and implement of your office to
the East, and resume your station.
The Hospitable Brother returns the jewel and winged rod ; sa¬
lutes and retires to his station.
T.\ P.*. Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies,
your station %
M.\ of C.\ In the North, Thrice Puissant Grand
Master.
T.\ P. \ Your duty there?
GEA.ND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 239
M.\ of C.\ To prepare all Candidates, and con¬
duct them as a faithful leader, in their mystic travels
on the road to perfection.
T.\ Pr. Having performed your duty, you will
return your jewel and implement of your office to
the East, and resume your station.
The Master of Ceremonies returns his jewel and staff; salutes
and retires to his station.
Tr. Pr. Brother Grand Orator, your place in the
Lodge ?
O. \ 0. \ In the South, near the Altar of Perfumes.
Tr. P.\ Your duty as Grand Orator?
Or. Or. To make discourses in illustration of the
Order ; to instruct new Brethren, and explain to them
the mysteries of Ineffable Masonry.
Tr. Pr. Having performed your duty, you will
return your jewel and implement of your office to
the East, and resume your station.
The Grand Orator returns his jewel and scroll; salutes and re¬
tires to his station.
Tr. Pr. Brother Grand Secretary, your station.
Or. Sr. In the South, before the Altar of Per¬
fumes.
Tr. Pr. Your duty.
Sr. Or. Under the direction of the Thrice Puis¬
sant Grand Master, to perform the correspondence
of the Lodge, to give notice to the Brethren of its
meetings, to register all its transactions, receive all
moneys and pay them over to the Treasurer, and es¬
pecially to be a faithful witness to all alliances made
with virtue and the virtuous.
240
FOURTEENTII DEGREE.
T.P. -. Having performed }rour duty, you will
return your jewel to the East, and resume your sta¬
tion.
The Grand Secretary returns his jewel; salutes and retires to his
station.
T. \ P.\ Brother Grand Treasurer, your station ?
G. \ T. *. In the North, before the Altar of Shew-
bread.
T. \ P. •. Your duty ?
G. \ T. \ To act as the representative of our ancient
Brother, who was intrusted with the keys of King
Solomon's Temple ; to securely keep all the funds of
the Lodge, pay them out as required, and render a
just account of all receipts and disbursements.
T. \ P. -. Having performed your duty, you will
return your jewel to the East, and resume your sta¬
tion.
The Grand Treasurer returns the jewel ; salutes and retires to
his station.
T. *. P.\ oo o—o o o—o [Wardens rise ] Venerable
Brother Junior Grand Warden, what are you I
J. •. W. \ I am a Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime
Mason. My trials are finished, and it is now time
that I should reap the fruits of my labor.
T.\ P.\ Show me a mark, to assure me that you
have arrived at Perfection.
J. \ W.\ This ring, a symbol of the alliance I have
contracted with virtue and the virtuous.
T.\ P.-. What offering do you bring ?
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON. 241
J.\W.\ A heart divested of revenge and iniquity,
and zealous in virtue and friendship.
T. \ P. \ My Brother, what is the hour?
J. *. W. \ Low twelve, Thrice Puissant.
T. *. P.*. It is then time to close our works, o o o
—o o o—o o o Venerable Senior Gfrand Warden,
give notice to the Brethren that I am about to close
this Lodge of Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Ma¬
sons by the perfect numbers 3, 5, 7 and 9.
8. *. W.Brother Junior Grand Warden and Broth¬
ers, the Thrice Puissant Grand Master is about to
close this Lodge of Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sub¬
lime Masons by the perfect numbers 3, 5, 7 and 9.
Assemble at the altar, and gtve him your assistance
and attention.
Music while the Brethren are assembling around the altar, where
they stand at salute. Lesson same as at opening. All kneel, as at
opening, for the
PRAYER.
Oh, Most Holy and Glorious God, thou who dwell-
est between the Cherubim, and art known in heaven
and on earth by thy name Jah : we approach thee
with awe and reverance, and implore thy blessing
upon us, who know thy great and ineffable name,
ere we depart from this sacred place to our several
places of abode, and mingle again in the busy scenes
and stifes of life.. Oh, fill our hearts, we beseech
thee, with thy love and fear, that our tongues may
speak of thy goodness, and our actions correspond
with the lessons taught in this holy place.
Make us steadfast in our obligations to our Breth¬
ren and in our duty to our fellow man.
Bless us and prosper us in life, and in death re¬
ceive us, O Lord! our Adonai! Amen.
16
242
FOURTEENTH DEGKEE.
All. So mote it be!
All rise, and give * * up to Perfection; then unite in the feast of
Friendship, singing the Ode of Perfection, accompanied with the
Holy Libation, as in the reception.
T.\ P.\ o All retire to their stations, and stand at salute.
T.\ P.\ o o o All give first * of Perfection, and 3 lights in the
North are put out by the Captain of the Guard.
T. \ P.'. o o o o o 2d * 5 lights in the South are put out by the
Junior Warden.
T.'. P.'. 0000000 3rd * 7 lights in the West are put out by
the Senior Warden.
T.\ P.'- 00 o—o o o— o o o * of Secrecy. The Senior and
Junior Grand Experts put out the 9 lights in the East.
T.'. P.'. o o o—0 000 o—o 00000 o—o o o—o o o—o o o
Master of Ceremony puts out the Sun.
All. o o o—o 000 o—o 00000 0—0 o o—o o o—o o o with
their hands, and stand at salute.
T.'. P.\ Venerable Brother Senior Grand War¬
den, how should Gfrand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime
Masons part ?
S. \ W.\ Ever as they should meet—in peace, love
and unity.
T. \ P.-. May a heart divested of revenge and in¬
iquity be our offering! Thus may we ever meet and
part! Let us keep in recollection the * of a Grand,
Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason, which inculcates
silence and secrecy.
The Thrice Puissant extends his right hand forward, palm down¬
ward. The Brothers acknowledge it bv the * of silence, meaning
that the secrets of the Lord are sacred from the world.
GRAND, ELECT, PERFECT & SUBLIME MASON". 243
T.'. P.\ Brother Captain of the Guard, your last
duty %
C.\ of G.\ To dismiss the Guard and close the
Vault.
T.\ P.-. Your work being completed, you will
perform your duty.
The Thrice Puissant then makes the following declaration.
T. \ P.-. To the Glory of the Grand Architect of
the Universe, in the name and under the auspices of
the United Supreme Council of the Sovereign Grand
Inspectors General of the Thirty third and last de¬
gree of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite of Free¬
masonry for the Southern Jurisdiction of the Uni¬
ted States of America, and by virtue of the author¬
ity on me conferred, I declare this Grand Lodge of
Perfection closed. Venerable Brother Senior Grand
Warden, give notice to the Brethren and the Cap¬
tain of the Guard.
W.\ Venerable Brother Junior Grand Warden,
and Brothers Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime
Masons, this Lodge of Perfection is closed. Brother
Captain of the Guard, inform the Guards, (o)
All salute the East, West, South and each other.
CLOSING ODE.
No solar beam nor lunar ray
Illumined the dark, the narrow way
That led me to the door;
I proved myself a Knight, and then
The Sacred Vault I entered in
By mystic numbers four.
244
FOURTEENTH DEGREE.
'T was there, impressed with holy awe,
A gold engraven plate I saw
With dazzling splendor shine.
To us, the "Grand Elect" alone,
In secret characters are known,
Ineffable—divine.
This precious treasure, long concealed,
Was by three worthy Knights revealed
Where erst a Temple stood.
Its ancient ruins they explored,
And found the grand, mysterious word,
Made known before the Flood.
Fulfilled was then the promise made,
And Beauty's Pillar soon displayed
The Treasure they had found:
Their ardent zeal and piety—
Their dangerous toil and constancy—
Were with due honors crowned.
Hours like those we all shall prove,
Who, joined in pure and social love,
Perfection's work pursue.
May the Sublime Grand Architect,
By his unerring lawfe, direct
The honored, chosen few!
May all who Friendship's feast partake
The good pursue, the bad forsake!
And may each rite and sign
A happy, lasting influence shed:
The quadrant crowned, the oil, the bread,
The golden ring, the wine!
Long as I live this ring I'll wear,
Symbol of an alliance dear
To every Brother's heart;
And bless the sacred tie that binds
In virtue's chain; "for virtue joins
What death can never part."
CEREMONY
OF
INAUGURATION AND CONSTITUTION
OF A
Lodge of Perfection
INSTALLATION OF ITS OFFICERS,
AS USED BY THE
UNITED SUPREME COUNCIL
FOR THE SOUTHERN JURISDICTION U. S. A.
COMPILED AND ARRANGED BY
ILL.*. TIIOR]NTTOX A. JACKSOX 33°
M.\ P.'. SOV.\ GR.\ COM.-.
WASHINGTON, D. C.
I902
CONSTITUTION AND INAUGURATION
OF A
LODGE OF PERFECTION.
This ceremonial is to be used when a Lodge of Perfection is to
be constituted and inaugurated and its officers installed when per¬
formed by the M.\ P.". Sov.\ Grand Commander, assisted by the
members of the United Supreme Council, or by a Sovereign or Dep¬
uty Grand Inspector General, assisted by the members of the Grand
Consistory, or without assistance, will easily make the necessary
changes.
The installation ceremony will be used by itself, where the Lodge
has been previously constituted.
The Lodge room is arranged as for a ceremony of reception; the
interlaced triangle over the throne is not lighted.
The pedestal, on which is the cube, is covered with black cloth.
The 3, 5, 7 and 9 lights are not lighted.
The officers and members are all in full dress.
One sentinel only is stationed on the outside.
In front of the East, seats are placed, sufficient to accommodate
all the officers.
If the Lodge has been previously working, it will be opened in
the ordinary manner.
If it has not, the officers elect will take their stations and places,
and be merely called to order by the Master elect.
The dignitary higest in rank will preside.
These ceremonies should be performed by the Brother highest in
rank in the Rite in attendance, which is to say, 1st M.\ P.-. Sov.\
Gr.\ Commander; 2d Other officers of the United Supreme Council
according to rank; 3d Active members according to seniority; 4th
Illustrious Deputy Inspector General, etc.
The Council of Deliberation of the State is the Most Puissant
Grand Consistory, and its presiding officer is the Illustrious Deputy,
who is styled the Illustrious Grand Commander.
4 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION.
If the Illustrious Deputy is to perform the ceremony, and he is
assisted by officers or members of the Grand Consistory, he and they
will be received as follows:
Nine brethren, with swords and lights, are in readiness to wait
upon the Grand Consistory. They form the "Deputation." The
other members, sword in hand, are designated to form the Arch of
Steel.
When all are prepared, the T.\ P.'. Grand Master orders
Music.
In the meantime, the officers and members of the Grand Consis¬
tory are formed into a procession in an adjoining room in the fol¬
lowing order:
Grand Tyler.
Grand Master of Ceremonies.
Grand Captain of the Guard. Grand Hospitaller.
Grand Treasurer. Grand Secretary.
Grand Minister of State. Grand Chancellor.
First Lieutenant Commander. Second Lieutenant Commander.
Illustrious Deputy Commander.
Grand Standard Bearer.
Illustrious Grand Commander.
Or.-. Com.-. Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremo¬
nies, inform the Thrice Puissant Grand Master that
I am ready to proceed with the inauguration.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies knocks at the door 3, 5, 7 and 9.
C.-. of Q.-. Venerable Brother Junior Warden,
there is an alarm at the door of The Lodge.
J.-, W.-. Venerable Brother Senior Grand Warden,
there is an alarm at the door of the Lodge.
8.-. TV.-. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, there is
an alarm at the door of the Lodge.
T.-. P.-. Venerable Brother Senior Grand Warden,
cause it to be ascertained who makes the alarm, and
report accordingly.
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. 5
S. \ W. \ Venerable Brother Junior Grand Warden,
cause it to be ascertained who makes the alarm, and
report accordingly.
J.'. TP.*. Brother Grand Captain of the Guard, as¬
certain who makes the alarm, and report accord¬
ingly.
Captain of the Guard raps 3. 5, 7 and 9, opens the door a little,
and says:
C.*. of (J. *. Who is it that knocks ?
G.\ M.\ of C.-. The Grand Master of Ceremonies
of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory of the State
of , who requests admittance for the purpose of
communicating the orders of the 111. Grand Comman¬
der to the Thiice Puissant Grand Master, officers and
members of Lodge of Perfection.
Captain of the Guard, partly closing the door, says:
C.\ of G.'. Venerable Brother Junior Grand War¬
den, it is the Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremonies
of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory for the State
of , who requests admittance for the purpose of
communicating the orders of the 111. Grand Comman¬
der to the Thrice Puissant Grand Master, officers and
members of Lodge of Perfection.
J. *. TP. *. Venerable Brother Senior Grand Warden,
it is the Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremonies of
of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory for the State
of , who requests admittance for the purpose of
communicating the orders of the 111. Grand Com¬
mander to the Thrice Puissant Grand Master, the
officers and members of Lodge of Perfection.
8.-. TP.*. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, it is the
Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremonies, of the Most
Puissant Grand Consistory for the State of , who
6 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION.
requests admittance for the purpose of communicat¬
ing the orders of the 111. Grand Commander to the
Thrice Puissant Grand Master, officers and members
of Lodge of Perfection.
T.'. P.'. [Rising and rapping o o o] To order, my
Brethren! [All rise, draw their swords, and stand at order.]
Open the door, and give the Illustrious Grand Mas¬
ter of Ceremonies free entrance !
The Grand Master of Ceremonies enters, advances to the center
of the room, salutes the Grand Master with his sword, and says:
G.'. M. \ of C.\ Thrice Puissant Grand Master,
officers and members of Lodge of Perfection,
I am directed by the Illustrious Grand Commander
of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory for the State
of , to inform you that it is his intention to
proceed with the inauguration of your Lodge.
T. ■ P. -. Illustrious Brother Grand Master of Cer¬
emonies, convey to the Illustrious Grand Commander
assurances of our profound regard, with our thanks;
and inform him that we are ready to obey any orders
it may please him to transmit to us.
The Master of Ceremonies again salutes, and retires. The mem¬
bers remain standing.
Music.
The Master of Ceremonies repeats to the Illustrious Grand Com¬
mander the responses of the Thrice Puissant Grand Master, and the
Illustrious Grand Commander says to the members of the Grand
Consistory:
Gr.Com. \ Illustrious Brethren, the Thrice Puis¬
sant Grand Master, with the officers and members of
his Lodge of Perfection, is prepared to receive us.
Let us proceed to perform the duty for which we have
assembled here.
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. 7
The procession moves towards the door. The Master of Cere¬
monies raps 3, 5, 7 and 9. The alarm is answered from within, as
before, and orders given, as before, to ascertain its cause. In an¬
swer to the demand, "Who is it that knocks?" the Master of Cere¬
monies says:
G.\ M.-. of C.\ The Illustrious Grand Comman¬
der, with the officers and members of the Most Puis¬
sant Grand Consistory for the State of —.
This is repeated within by the several officers, as before.
The Thrice Puissant Grand Master causes the deputation to be
formed in the West, by twos, under the charge of the Master of
Ceremonies elect of the Lodge, and they then go out to receive the
Visitors. Then all the other Brethren are formed in two lines, near
the door and extending towards the altar, facing inward, leaving
space enough between them for the deputation and those who will
follow them to pass. All form the arch of steel. When this is done,
the Thrice Puissant says:
T. \ P. \ Brethren, prepare to receive the Illustri¬
ous Grand Commander, and the officers and mem¬
bers of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory, with
the appropriate honors. Let the doors be thrown
open !
Rlusic.
The d oors are opened, and the procession enters, preceded by
the deputation. When these reach the lines, (space being left be¬
tween these and the door for that purpose,) the whole halts, the
deputation opens its ranks and prolongs the lines, and the arch of
steel is formed by all. The procession also opens its ranks, and the
Illustrious Grand Commander, preceded by the Grand Master of
Ceremonies and the Banner of the Order, pass under the arch of
steel, followed by the officers according to rank, in the reverse or¬
der of the procession. The swords are clashed and gavels beaten
as the Consistory passes under the arch. When it has emerged
from it, it halts, and the officers of the Lodge standing at the salute,
the Thrice Puissant addresses the Illustrious Grand Commander, or
other installing officer, in the following words, or others suitable:
l\hisic siops.
8 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION.
T. •. P.-. Illustrious Grand Commander, in the
name of this Lodge of Perfection, I bid you, and
those who accompany you, welcome. Under any
circumstances, your presence among us would be
hailed with pleasure, as a fortunate event, ensuring
to us instruction and profit; but it is now especially
acceptable, when you come bearing with you letters-
patent of Constitution, by means of which we are to
be permanently incorporated as a Lodge, having in¬
dividuality and continued succession.
Be pleased, Illustrious Brother, to receive from us
assurances, sincerely and honestly given, that we
mean to prove ourselves worthy of this privilege, the
highest and holiest that can be conferred on man.
Gr.-. Com.-. Thrice Puissant Grand Master, per¬
mit me to return thanks for this fraternal reception.
The United Supreme Council of the Thirty-third De¬
gree for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United
States of America, knowing your zeal and devotion for
our Ancient and Accepted Rite, have favorably con¬
sidered your request, and have caused letters-patent
of Constitution to issue, empowering you to assemble
as a legal Lodge, and to discharge the duties of our
Rite in a legal and constitutional manner, according
to the original forms of the order and the regulations
of the Supreme Council, and now propose to inaug¬
urate your Lodge and to install its officers.
The Thrice Puissant descends from his throne, advances to the
altar, and presents his mallet to the Illustrious Grand Commander,
who receives it, and the Thrice Puissant conducts him to the throne,
and stands upon his left. The Illustrious Grand Commander then
says:
Gr.\ Com.-. The officers of the Grand Consistory
will approach the East, and be seated.
The officers approach the East, and are seated.
Gr.-. Com.-. Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremo¬
nies, you will now conduct to their appropriate sta
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. 9
tions in the Lodge the officers of the Grand Consis¬
tory, and let the officers of the Lodge, commencing
with the Captain of the Guard, yield up their sta¬
tions respectively, and place their regalia upon the
Altar of Incense ; after which, you will conduct them
to their seats in front of the East, vacated by their
superior officers.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies conducts the proper officers of
the Grand Consistory, in due succession, to the several stations.
As each approaches, the officer to be replaced rises, bows, retires
by the left, goes round to the front, faces the officer who has taken
his place, draws his sword, salutes, recovers, returns his sword, and
is conducted by the Grand Master of Ceremonies to the Altar of In¬
cense, where he takes off the insignia of his office and deposits them
on the altar, and thence is conducted to the vacated seat in front of
the East. The seat in the centre is left for the Thrice Puissant, and
the others are occupied according to rank, the officers highest in
rank occupying the seats nearest the center, on the right and left
alternately.
When all the stations are thus filled, the Grand Commander says:
Or. \ Com.'. Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremo¬
nies, conduct now the Thrice Puissant Grand Mas¬
ter, after he shall have laid aside his regalia, to his
proper seat among his officers.
77Iusic.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies goes in front of the Thrice
Puissant Grand Master, draws, salutes, recovers, and conducts the
Thrice Puissant to the altar, where he deposits his insignia, and
thence to the seat left for him; again faces him, salutes, recovers,
and retires to his place.
Music stops.
Or. \ Com. \ Illustrious Grand Chancellor, you will
now read the Letters-Patent of Constitution.
The Grand Chancellor reads the letters, after which the Grand
Commander rises and says:
10 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION".
Gr. \ Com. \ Perfect and Sublime Brethren of
Lodge of Perfection, you have heard read your Let¬
ters-Patent of Constitution ; do you accept them,
and do you now desire that your Lodge shalJ be in¬
augurated %
All. We do.
Gr.\ Com.-. Perfect and Sublime Brethren, the
step which you now take is a serious one ; hereto¬
fore you were only temporarily organized, but when
you shall have been inaugurated and installed under
these Letters-Patent of Constitution, you become a
permanent body ; and if you should so conduct your¬
selves as to have them taken away, you will incur
great reproach, and prove yourselves unworthy Ma¬
sons. It will become the duty of each and every
member of the Lodge to labor unceasingly for its
success.
The work of the Lodge must not be confined to the
mere ceremony of opening and closing and confer¬
ring of degrees, but should be devoted to mutual in¬
struction, to the cultivation of the social feelings,
and of brotherly kindness, and to the practice of
earnest beneficence and charity.
Morally, the work of a Lodge of Perfection ex¬
tends far beyond mutual relief and assistance : the
field of its exertions is not included within the four
walls of a Lodge, nor limited by the circle of the
brethren ; it is society, the country, the world.
Intellectually, its. work is not confined to dry and
lifeless formulas or trivial interpretations, but in¬
cludes the profoundest philosophical instructions in
regard to the great mysteries of God and nature.
If these, my Brethren, are your views of the works
and purposes of Masonry, kneel with us, and let us
beseech our Father who is in Heaven, to prosper this
work and bless all our labors with success.
All kneel while the Grand Commander offers the following
inauguration of a lodge of perfection. 11
PRAYER.
Great Architect of the Universe, Creator and Pre¬
server of the world, teach us our duties as Masons
and as men ! Incline our hearts and strengthen our
hands to perform them, and make our work, faith¬
fully done, effectual for the benefit of our order, of
society, of our country, and of universal humanity.
Give us wisdom to judge what is proper and be¬
coming for us to do, and may this Lodge which we
are about to inaugurate and consecrate, be and con¬
tinue an active and efficient instrument in relieving
human suffering, dispelling ignorance, eradicating
error, and promoting the happiness of men. A men.
All. So mote it be !
Gr. -. Com. \ Glory be to God on High !
All. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever
shall be, world without end ! Amen !
Gr.-. Com.-. Rise, my Brethren.
All rise and are seated. After which
Gr.-. Com.-. Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremo¬
nies, let the members of the Lodge about to be con¬
stituted, with their officers elect, form the sacred
symbol enclosing the Altar of Incense, that they
may take the Vows of Fealty and Allegiance.
Slow, wailing music.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies sets the Altar of Incense in the
middle of the room, and says:
G.-. JSI.-. of C.-. Brethren of the Lodge about to
be constituted, you will please assemble around the
Altar of Incense, and form the sacred symbol of the
Delta, there to take the Vows of Fealty and Alle¬
giance.
12 inauguration of a lodge of perfection.
They do so, and are arranged by him in the form of an equilat¬
eral triangle, one apex to the East, and all the Brethren facing in¬
ward. When they are so arranged, music stops, and he says:
O.'. Mr. of C.\ Illustrious Grand Commander,
the Brethren form the sacred symbol of the Delta,
enclosing the Altar of Incense.
The Grand Commander raps o o o, and he and those who assist
him rise. The following offices are then repeated:
Low wailing music.
Or.-. Com.-. Let them shout for joy and be glad
that favor my righteous cause ; yea, let them say
continually, Let the Lord be magnified, which hath
pleasure in the prosperity of his servants.
1st Lieut.-. Thy righteousness is like the great
mountains ; Thy judgments a great deep. How ex¬
cellent is Thy loving-kindness, O God !—therefore
the children of men put their trust under the shadow
of Thy wings.
2d Lieut.-. Thou shalt make them drink of the
river of Thy pleasures ; for with Thee is the fountain
of life ; in Thy light shall we see light. O continue
Thy loving-kindness unto them that do acknowledge
Thee ; and Thy righteousness to the upright in heart.
Let not the foot of pride come against them ; and
let not the hand of the wicked remove them !
Or.-. Com.-. A Father of the Fatherless, and a
Protector of the Widow, is God in His Holy House.
He setteth the solitary in families ; He bringeth out
those which are bound with chains. Thy congrega¬
tion hath dwelt therein : Thou, O God, hast prepared
of Thy goodness for the poor.
1st Lieut.-. Blessed be the Lord, who daily load-
eth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation.
Selaii.—Our God, the God of salvation ; and unto
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. IB
God belong the issues from death. Thy God hath
commanded thy strength : confirm, O God, that
which Thou hast wrought for us. God, terrible out
of Thy holy places the God of Israel: he that giv-
eth strength and power unto His people. Blessed
be Elohim !
2d Lieut.-. Unto Thee, O Lord, do we lift up our
souls !—Show us Thy ways, O Lord ; teach us Thy
paths !—Lead us in Thy Truth, and teach us ; for
Thou art the God of our salvation. Lord, we have
loved the habitation of Thy holy house, and the
place where Thy glory abideth. This one thing we
have desired of the Lord ; this do we seek after ;
that we may dwell in the house of the Lord all the
days of our life, to behold the beauty of our Lord,
and to be instructed in His Temple. I will offer in
His Tabernacle sacrifices of joy. I will sing, yea, I
will sing praises unto the Lord. Wait on the Lord,
be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thy
heart, and be the strength and the saving strength
of His anointed.
Music stops.
Or.-. Com.-. Illustrious Brethren, officers and mem¬
bers of the Grand Consistory, go with me to the Al¬
tar of Incense, to receive and witness the vows of
these Brethren.
Low wailing music.
The Grand Commander descends from the throne and passes in¬
side the triangle to the altar. The officers and members of the
Grand Consistory, or others who assist the Grand Commander, en¬
circle the Brethren who form the Delta, and draw their swords.
The Grand Commander now lights the incense—(music stops)—
and says:
Gr.\ Com.-. Brethren of the Lodge of Perfection,
you will now kneel and repeat after me your vows
of
17
14 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION.
FEALTY AND ALLEGIANCE.
The officers and members of the Lodge of Perfection kneel on
the^right knee, the others remain standing; swords at the carry.
All. These are my solemn vows of fealty and alle¬
giance :
In the presence of our Heavenly Father, by this
holy altar erected to Him, by the incense which now
ascends therefrom, in token of our gratitude and
adoration, and calling on these Illustrious Brethren
now present, as witnesses, I do solemnly vow to be
faithful and loyal to the Ancient Accepted Scottish
Kite, to ever maintain its honor and independence,
support its regular and constituted authorities, and
zealously endeavor to prop>agate its principles, en¬
large its boders, and increase its influence ;
That I will be loyal and faithful to my countiy
and its government and laws, and to the great cause
of oppressed and suffering humanity ;
That I will labor to disseminate truth and knowl¬
edge among men, to eradicate error and dispel igno¬
rance, and to make Masonry efficient to enlighten
and enfranchise men ;
That I will be loyal and faithful, and bear true
fealty and allegiance to the United Supreme Council
of Sovereign Grand Inspectors General for the South¬
ern Jurisdiction of the United States of America, as
the Sovereign Authority of the Ancient and Accepted
Scottish Rite within all its jurisdiction ;
That I will be loyal and faithful, and pay due
obedience to the Most Puissant Grand Consistory of
Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret, within whose
jurisdiction I may reside ;
That I will hold no Masonic communication what¬
ever, as a Mason of said rite, with any Masonic body
or Mason pretending to be subject to any Masonic
authority of saicl rite in said jurisdiction, other than
said United Supreme Council, of which the Illustri-
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. 15
ous Brother is now the Most Puissant Sov¬
ereign Grand Commander. So help me Gfod !
Or.-. Co?n.\ Rise, my Brethren, and form a semi¬
circle on the west of the altar. Illustrious Brethren,
officers and members of the Grand Consistory, ad¬
vance and form a semicircle on the east of the altar.
Illustrious Brethren, bearers of the Standard, ad¬
vance the banners of the Order to the altar.
Music.
These orders are obeyed, and a circle is thus formed around the
altar.
Music stops.
Or.-. Com.-. Illustrious Brother Grand Master of
Ceremonies, bring hither the bread and wine.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies does so. The Grand Comman¬
der takes them in his hands, and says:
Or.-. Com.-. My Brethren, repeat all of you with
me : "I eat of this bread and drink of this wine, in
solemn pledge of good faith and brotherhood ; and
should I ever desert a worthy Brother in his need,
prove disloyal to the Banners of the Order, or allow
them by my neglect to come to dishonor, may I be
so despised that every Brother in the wide world
shall hold it a disgrace to eat or drink with me, and
even the beggar and the leper shall shun me as dis¬
honored."
Music.
The Grand Commander eats a morsel of bread, and passes the
basket round the circle. The Grand Commander then drinks from
the cup, and it passes round in the same manner.
Music stops.
Or.-. Com.-. Illustrious Brother Grand Master of
Ceremonies, bring forth the wheat, the wine and the
oil.
16 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies hands the golden vessel con¬
taining the wheat to the Grand Commander; the cup, containing
wine to the First Lieutenant; and the silver vessel, containing oil,
to the Second Lieutenant. The Grand Commander goes to the
East, the First Lieutenant to the West, and the Second Lieutenant
to the South, the others remaining as they were.
The Second Lieutenant, standing in his place in the South, sprin¬
kles oil upon the floor, and says:
2d Lieut. In the name of our Father which art in
Heaven, I consecrate this Lodge of Perfection to
peace, harmony and union ; may it ever pour oil on
the waters of strife, and persuade men no longer to
hate their brethren !
The First Lieutenant, standing in his place in the West, sprinkles
wine upon the floor, and says:
1st Lieut. In the name of the Order of Freema¬
sonry, and of our Ancient and Accepted Scottish
Rite, I consecrate this Lodge of Perfection to chari¬
ty, beneficence, and good deeds ; may it ever labor
to assist the needy, console the suffering, and cheer
with the wine of contentment the disconsolate.
The Grand Commander, standing in his place in the East, sprin¬
kles wheat on the floor, and says:
Grr. Com.-. In the name of the Ancient and Ac¬
cepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, I consecrate
this Lodge of Perfection to truth and the diffusion
of knowledge among men ; may it ever labor un-
weariedly in the great cause ; and may every seed
it sows generate like the wheat and produce fruit in
one season. My Brethren, let us pray !
All kneel, and the Grand Commander reads this
PRAYER.
Our Father, who art in Heaven and also here among
us, grant that this Lodge which we are constituting
may be truly devoted to the great principles which
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. 17
we have here proclaimed, and that the Brethren who
compose it may never faint or falter in well-doing !
May those who shall be elected to guide and govern
it, be endowed with wisdom to instruct the Brethren
in their duties. May truth and peace and loving-
kindness ever dwell here, and may the Lodge be
Thy Temple ; and Thy holy houses of peace and tol¬
eration be multiplied all over the world !
Bear with our frailties, and approve and aid our
efforts to amend ; and when our pilgrimage here has
ended, make real our hope of immortality, and let
us approach nearer to Thee. Glory be to Grod on
High !
All. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever
shall be ; world without end ! Amen.
Or.-. Com.-. Rise, my Brethren, and resume your
places.
They do so, and remain standing.
Or. \ Com. The Lodge is dark, my Brethren, like
the world before Masonry arose. Let it be lighted
by the sacred numbers.
The Grand Captain of the Guard lights the 3 lights in the North.
Or.-. Com.-. Join me, my Brethren, by the sacred
number 3.
All give the battery 3 times with their hands, and cry 3 times
" Huzza! " the first time raising the right hand to heaven; the sec¬
ond time placing the two first fingers of the same upon the lips; and
the third time clapping the two hands together.
The Second Lieutenant lights the 5 lights in the South.
Or.'. Com.-. Join me, my Brethren, by the sacred
number 5.
All applaud as before, except that the battery is 5.
The First Lieutenant lights the 7 lights in the West.
18 INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION.
Grs. Com.-. Join me, my Brethren, by the sacred
number 7.
All applaud as before, except that the battery is 7.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies lights the 9 lights in the East.
Gr.\ Com.-. Join me, my Brethren, by 3 times 3.
All applaud as before, except that the battery is 3 times 3.
Music.
The Grand Commander leaves the throne, goes to the pedestal,
uncovers it, returns to his throne, and raps 3; Second Lieutenant
raps 5; First Lieutenant raps 7; Grand Commander raps 3 times 3.
Music stops.
Or.-. Com.-. My Brethren, the one great light of
Masonry is still wanting in your Lodge.
The search for the True Word symbolizes the ef¬
forts of the human mind to attain a knowledge of
the true nature of God.
Among the Hebrews, those whose keener and more
cultivated intellects were able to grasp the idea, the
Ineffable Word presented the same Deity, the same
uncreated, incorporeal, absolute existence. It em¬
bodied the idea that to exist is of the Essence of
Deity, and that before anything elsewas, He existed;
and that everything material and spiritual has been
evolved from Him.
Let the Holy and Ineffable Name appear and shine!
The Grand Master of Ceremonies lights the transparency, on
which is the Tetragrammaton. All the Brethren bare the head and
clasp the hands above the head, and then let them drop by the sides.
Or.-. Com.-. The One Great Light, the Great In¬
effable Name of God, shines in the East of the Lodge,
and completes the sacred numbers. My Brethren,
let us adore the Deity, and worship Him in silence !
Solemn music.
INAUGURATION OF A LODGE OF PERFECTION. 19
While all raise both hands, palms to the front, the eyes raised to
heaven, then fold the arms on the breast, drop the head on the breast
and the eyes on the ground, and so remain for a minute or two, un¬
til the Grand Commander raps once. Then the music ceases, and
is followed by an
Ode or Chant.
PROCLAMATION.
Gr.\ Com.-. To the glory of the Grand Architect
of the Universe, in the name and under the auspices
of the United Supreme Council of the Sovereign
Grand Inspectors General of the Thirty-third Degree
of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Free¬
masonry for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United
States, and by virtue of the powers in me vested as
[position of installing officer], I do constitute and
form these Brethren into a regular Lodge of Perfec¬
tion of said Rite, to be known and distinguished
as Lodge of Perfection No. —.
I do hereby empower it, henceforward, to meet as
a regular Lodge of Perfection, duly constituted and
inaugurated in conformity to the laws and usages of
the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. And may
the Great Architect of the Universe prosper, direct,
and counsel it in all its doings ! Amen.
All. So mote it be.
Gr.-. Com.-, o
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
OF A
LODGE OP PERFECTION.
At the installation of the officers of a Lodge of Perfection, the
Grand Commander (or other installing officer) and those who ac¬
company him (if any) will be received in the manner hereinbefore
directed, the Thrice Puissant Grand Master and all the other officers
in their places, the Grand Master making an appropriate address
and the Grand Commander replying. The Grand Commander (or
installing officer) will then assume the East, and he will cause the
officers of the Lodge to vacate their seats, in the manner herein¬
before directed, and the officers of the Grand Consistory to occupy
the stations and places.
If, at any installation, the new officers have not already been se¬
lected, the Grand Commander will now cause the elections to be
held for Thrice Puissant Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master,Ven¬
erable Senior Grand Warden, Venerable Junior Grand Warden,
Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, Grand Orator, Grand Master
of Ceremonies, Grand Captain of the Guard, Grand Hospitable
Brother, Senior Grand Expert, Junior Grand Expert, and Grand
Tiler. Each will be declared elected, to hold his office until the 3d
day of Adar, in each Hebrew year thereafter.
The officers having been selected, the installation will be pro¬
ceeded with.
Where a Lodge has been previously constituted and its officers
installed, the ceremonies of reception, address of welcome and re¬
sponse may be dispensed with at the pleasure of the installing officer.
Each officer will stand while the charge is being delivered to him,
after which he will resume his seat.
Everything being ready for the ceremony, the Grand Commander
will say:
Or.'. Com.-. Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremo¬
nies, let the officers elect be seated in front of and
facing tlie East, between it and the altar.
22
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
They are so seated, the Master in the center, and others on each
side, alternately, according to rank. Then the Grand Commander
raps o o o and says:
Or.-. Com.-. Brethren of tlie Lodge, these are the
officers whom you have elected. Look upon them,
and do you, Illustrious Brethren, officers of the Most
Puissant Grand Consistory, do the same ; and if any
one present has any objection to offer why any one
of them shall not be installed, let him now prefer
it, or else forever after hold his peace.
No objection being made, the Grand Commander o and says:
Gr.'. Com.-. Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies,
present the Thrice Puissant Grand Master elect.
This being done, the Grand Commander says:
Gr.'. Com. \ My Brother, your Brethren have been
pleased to elect you to the office of Thrice Puissant
Grand Master of this Lodge of Perfection. Before
your investiture, it is necessary you should signify
your assent to these ancient charges and regulations
which define the duty of a Grand Master of a Lodge
of Perfection. Listen, therefore, and respond :
I. You agree to be impartial and upright, and to
obey in every point the moral laws of the Ancient
and Accepted Scottish Rite. You promise not to en¬
gage in any plot or conspiracy against the Govern¬
ment ; and to submit peacefully to the will of the
majority ; and to act with honor and generosity
toward all men.
II. You agree to hold in veneration the ancient
landmarks and great principles of our order ; to re¬
spect and obey the authorities of the Ancient and
Accepted Scottish Rite, supreme and subordinate,
according to their stations ; and to submit to the
decisions and awards e>f your Brethren in anj^ case
where the constitution or principles of the order re¬
quire it.
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
28
III. You promise to avoid disputes and quarrels ;
to be modest in your behavior and carriage; courteous
to all men, and faithful to your Lodge and Brethren,
and carefully to refrain from intemperance and excess.
IV. You promise hospitably to treat and courte¬
ously to receive all Brethren, and to discountenance
imposters and all who seek to disturb the Ancient
and Accepted Scottish Rite.
Y. You agree to diffuse and disseminate the prin¬
ciples of our order ; to pay due homage to theUnited
Supreme Council, and strictly to conform to all edicts
emanating therefrom that are not subversive of the
principles and ground-work of the Ancient and Ac¬
cepted Scottish Rite.
YI. You admit that it is not in the power of any
man or body of men to make innovations in the es¬
sential or fundamental principles of the Ancient and
Accepted Scottish Rite.
VII. You promise to attend regularly the meet¬
ings of your Lodge, and to instruct and counsel the
Brethren ; that you will faithfully and punctually
perform all your duties as Grand Master, and that
you will never open or close your Lodge without
giving a lecture, or some portion thereof, for the in¬
struction of the Brethren.
VIII. You admit that no new Lodge of Perfection
can be formed without permission of the United Su¬
preme Council, or by a Deputy Inspector General in
a country where there is no Grand Consistory, and
that no countenance should be given to an irregular
Lodge, or to any person initiated therein.
XX. You admit that no person can be regularly
allowed to receive any degree in a Lodge of Perfection,
or admitted a member of the same, without previous
notice and due inquiry into his character, nor unless
he be a Master Mason in good standing.
X. You agree that no visitor shall be received into
your Lodge without due examination and proof of
his title to be so, unless he is personally known as a
Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Mason to some
member of your body.
24
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
These are the regulations of the Ancient and Ac¬
cepted Scottish Rite. Do you submit to these charges
and promise to support these regulations, as Ineffable
Masons have done in all ages before you?
T.\ P.-. G.\ Mr. I do.
CHARGE.
Grr. Com.-. My Brother, your ready assent to the
charges and regulations of the order, justifies the
confidence which your Brethren have reposed in you,
and authorizes me to proceed with your installation.
You cannot have advanced to the degree which you
have attained in our Rite without becoming ac¬
quainted with the requisites necessary to constitute
an efficient Master of a Lodge of Perfection, with
the duties that devolve upon the position, and of the
serious responsibility which he incurs.
The honor, reputation, and usefullness of your
Lodge will chiefly depend upon the mode in which
you discharge the duties of your office. If you
should be satisfied with merely knowing by rote the
formulas, the phrases, and ceremonies of the work,
and end with that, you may maintain good order
and conduct the work with regularity, but you will
soon see indifference succeed to zeal, inattention to
punctuality, lassitude to interest, and stagnant im¬
mobility to activity.
You cannot satisfy your promise never to open
and close your Lodge without giving a lecture, or
some portion thereof, for the instruction of the
Brethren, by asking a few trivial questions of routine.
It would be absufd to request of you to take a solemn
obligation to do that; and a sad matter if Masonry
would so cheapen its oaths.
Whenever your Lodge is closed, and an evening
has passed away without your having given the
Brethren some new and useful information, you will
ham failed to do your duty.
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
25
Think not that the field of Masonic learning has
been so often reaped and gleaned that there is noth¬
ing left for you to gather. Its history has never yet
been written. Its symbols are only in part under¬
stood. Its philosophy is a vast region almost wholly
unexplored. You are to arouse the indolent, en¬
courage the desponding, and incite the unreflecting
Brethren to do something the influences whereof
shall be felt beyond the limits of the Lodge—some¬
thing for society, something for humanity. Ad¬
monish them of the duty that rests upon them—so
to act and behave as to bring no discredit or re¬
proach upon the order. Charge them to practise out
of the Lodge the duties taught in it, and by their
forbearence, frankness, discretion, equity, and pro¬
found regard for truth and honor, to convince all
who know them of the excellence of our institution.
I hope your example will remain as the brightest
and best of lessons for your successors, to show them
in what way to walk, and how to act; to deserve well
of the Order, to be entitled to its gratitude, and to
win for themselves honor and reputation.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
deputy Grand Master elect.
Charge to the Deputy Grand Master.
My Brother, your Brethren have been pleased to
elect you Deputy Grand Master of this Lodge of
Perfection, to take the place of the Thrice Puissant,
in case of his absence. The duties which, in that
case, you are to perform are known to you, and need
not be repeated. When he is present, you are to
assist him with your counsel and advice in maintain¬
ing the dignity and authority of his office, and the
peace and harmony of the Lodge, and perform such
other duties as are laid down in the ritual. I con¬
gratulate you on being thought worthy by your
Brethren of this honorable station, and earnestly
hope that you may give them no reason to regret
the choice they have made.
26
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
Brother Grand Master*of Ceremonies, present the
Senior Grand Warden elect.
Charge to the Senior Grand Warden.
My Brother, your Brethren have been pleased to
elect you as Senior Grand Warden of this Lodge of
Perfection. In the absence of the Thrice Puissant
and his Deputy, you are to govern the Lodge and
perform the duties of his office; and in that case
you are bound by all the pledges and promises he
has made; and you will consider all that has been
said to him as addressed equally to you. When he is
present, you are to assist him and second all his
efforts. Your acquaintance with the history, sym¬
bols, and philosophy of our Rite, should be as ex¬
tensive as his; therefore you should prepare your¬
self, so as never to be taken unawares when called
to the performance of any duty.
I firmly rely on your knowledge, your zeal for the
Order, and your attachment for your Lodge, for the
faithful discharge of the duties of this important
trust.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Junior Grand Warden elect.
Charge to the Junior Grand Warden.
My Brother, you have been elected to the office of
Junior Grand Warden of this Lodge of Perfection.
You may be called upon to fill the place of the
Senior Grand Warden, or even that of the Grand
Master or his Deputy, and in such case the promises
they have respectively made become yours. You
should therefore be as fully instructed, and your
office demands of you the same diligent study and
thoughtful care.
Your regular and punctual attendance is required
by our laws, and it is expected you will faithfully
discharge the duties attached to that responsible
officer.
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
27
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Grand Orator elect.
Charge to the Grand Orator.
My Brother, you have been elected Grand Orator
of this Lodge of Perfection. It will be your duty
to pronounce a discourse to the neophyte at every
reception, and to the Lodge if required. It may
also of right call upon you to read an essay or
lecture upon the history, philosophy, doctrine, or
symbolism of the Rite. It is therefore indispensible
that you should make yourself familiar with these
subjects, so that you may be able to instruct and
enlighten the Brethren. I trust that the duties of
your office will be so performed that your name will
be hereafter identified with the prosperity of the
Lodge, and mentioned with honor and respect by all
who love our order.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Grand Treasurer elect.
Charge to the Grand Treasurer.
My Brother, you have been elected Grand Treas¬
urer of this Lodge of Perfection. It is your duty to
receive all moneys from the Secretary, make due en¬
try of the same, and pay them out on the order of
the Lodge, rendering account thereof at the proper
season. These duties are responsible and important,
and your faithful performance of them will entitle
you to the good opinion and gratitude of your Breth¬
ren.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Grand Secretary elect.
Charge to the Grand Secretary.
My Brother, you have been elected Grand Secre¬
tary of this Lodge of Perfection. It is your duty to
record the proceedings of the Lodge, to receive all
28
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
moneys due the same, and to pay tliem over to the
Grand Treasurer, taking his receipt therefor. I
earnestly hope that you will so perform its duties as
to merit the esteem and applause of your Brethren.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Grand Master of Ceremonies elect.
Charge to the Grand Master of Ceremonies.
My Brother, you have been elected the Grand Mas¬
ter of Ceremonies of this Lodge of Perfection. It
will be your duty to examine and introduce all visit¬
ing Brethren ; to examine, prepare, introduce, and
accompany all candidates ; to arrange processions,
and act as Marshal thereof. I trust you will perform
them to the entire satisfaction of the Grand Master
and the Lodge.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Grand Captain of the Guard elect.
Charge to the Grand Captain of the Guard.
My Brother, you have been elected Grand Captain
of the Guard of this Lodge of Perfection. You are
to guard well the entrance of the same, to cause all
summonses to be served, and to obey such orders of
the Grand Master as he may communicate to you ;
and I do not doubt but that you will perform your
duties faithfully, and keep due watch over our en¬
trance into the Sanctuary.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Grand Hospitaller elect.
Charge to the Grand Hospitaller.
My Brother, you have been elected Grand Hospi¬
taller of this Lodge of Perfection. It is our earnest
wish that you may so administer the affairs of your
office, that when you lay it down, the exchequer of
the Lodge may overflow with the thanks of the wid¬
ows and the gratitude of orphans.
TH : TA LL ATT01T OF OFFICERS
Of)
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present the
Senior and Junior Grand Experts elect.
Charge to the Grand Experts.
My Brothers, you have been elected respectively
Senior and Junior Grand Experts of this Lodge of
Perfection. It will be your duty to examine visitors
not vouched for, and to examine and prepare the can¬
didates. You will attend respectively on the Grand
Master and Wardens, and execute their orders in the
Lodge. You are under the direction of the Grand
Master of Ceremonies, and will perform such duties
as, by usage and custom appertain to your offices.
Your vigilance and attention will much conduce to
the order and harmony of the Lodge, and be duly
appreciated by your Brethren, who will soon learn
how important it is that the Lodge should have com¬
petent and zealous Experts. Unless you should
prove such, the officers over you will toil in vain,
and be continually vexed with disappointments and
by lame and halting work. Remember that the post
of honor is the post of duty.
Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies, present (lie
Grand Tiler elect
Charge to the Grand Tiler.
My Brother, you have been elected Grand Tiler of
this Lodge of Perfection. Receive this sword, and
after you shall have taken the oath of office, you will
repair to your station, and guard well the approach
to the entrance to the Lodge, that no cowan over¬
hear us and no imposter intrude himself among us.
Charge to All.
Oflieers elect and Brethren: It was said by the
Romans Ck NobilHas at olim ab officio,(nobility, as
is
INSTALLATION OF OFFK'LRS
of olden time, from office). Office enobles, when it
is deserved, and is honorably filled, with honest per¬
formance of duty.
Man has no other right than that of doing his
duty. His duty is to sacrifice himself for others.
To suffer, thereby to become strong ; to die, to be
born again immortal. The spirit of intellect is sac
riticed by faith ; the will by obedience ; and life it¬
self by martyrdom.
You are to be the chiefs, each in his station, of
this body of Grand, Elect, Perfect and Sublime Ma¬
sons. It is self denial, self-sacrifice that are Grand
and Sublime. It is those who are capable of these,
that are Elect Masons.
It is for you to teach the Brethren this self-sacri¬
fice, by examples ; by the sacrifice of your own in¬
terests and pleasures to duty. If you do that, office
will enoble you. Then you will indeed be, what
otherwise you cannot become, perfect Masons.
In a commonwealth, to respect and obey those who
hold their power by the free choice of the people, is
the highest duty which that peo]>le owes itself.
Towards them it should feel neither suspicion nor
distrust ; and all should have one paramount object,
to live together in harmony and union, and endeavor
to aid and benefit each other. " Peace and har¬
mony," you very early heard it said in Masonry,
"are the strength and support of all well-regulated
institutions, and more especially this of ours.'"
Perfect harmony, we do not need to be told, is not
attainable here below. The independence of our
nature, our passions, our peculiarities, all forbid
t hat. There will always be in our Lodge differences of
opinion, and, in consequence, hasty words, slighting
expressions and resentments. The decisions of the
Master will often be thought wrong, and sometimes
prejudicial or partial. It is better so ; for if it were
not, and everything went on with unvarying smooth¬
ness, there would be no occasion for the exercise of
generosity, forbearance and magnanimity. To err
is human and common. To repent, to acknowledge
INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS.
the error, and to forgive and forget it, are equally
noble; each requiring a lofty, generous and manly
spirit, without which the nature of man would be
farther from perfection than it is.
Increase and strengthen these attractions which
draw men together and unite them. Masonry was
intended to be joyous and convivial, and not sour,
ascetic and formal. Calling from labor to refresh¬
ment originally had a real meaning and a worthy
purpose. After their labors, the Brethren gathered
round the social and festive board, and there, under
the genial influences of the golden hour, all the dis¬
trusts, jealousies and slight animosities melted away
as thin clouds melt out of the sky in summer.
Adhere, my Brethren, to the old custom of refresh¬
ment, remembering the charge that you are not to
turn it into intemperance and excess.
After your meetings, gather around the table to
gether, let heart open to heart, and kindly glances
and pleasant words be interchanged. The weariness
of the evening's work disappears, the little petty ir¬
ritations pass away. The absent are remembered,
old associations are renewed, and the memories of
the dead, who used to be with us in such scenes, and
whose places still lovingly remember them, soften
our feelings towards the living. Then heart draws
closer to heart, by the magnetic attraction of sym¬
pathy. The spirit of charity reigns, and when at
last we are dismissed by command of the Grand
Architect of the Universe, we depart at peace with
ourselves and all the Brethren.
Illustrious Grand Master of Ceremonies, you will
now place the officers of the Lodge of Perfection at
the altar in due form to take the oath of office.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies arranges them in a semicircle,
tlie Grand Master elect in the center, on the west side of the altar,
all facing the altar, causes each to kneel on the right knee, and to
lay the right hand on the heart and hold up the left hand.
32 INSTALLATION OF OFFIOLIiR.
Or. M.\ of C.\ Illustrious Grand Commander,
the officers elect kneel at the altar in due form.
The Grand Commander raps o o o and says:
Or. •. Com. \ Attention, Illustrious Brethren of the
Grand Consistory, and Brethren of the Lodge, and
witness the oath of office ; and do you, officers elect,
hear and respond.
Oath of Office.
You and each of you, in the presence of the Great
Architect of the Universe, and with these Brethren as
witnesses, do solemnly and sincerely swear that you
will support the Constitutions, Regulations, Stat¬
utes and Institutes of the Ancient and Accepted
Scottish Rite, and the Regulations and Constitution
of the Supreme Council, as the fundamental law of
the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. That you
will faithfully and impartially perform, each to the
best and utmost of his skill and ability, the duties
of the office to which he has been elected in this
Lodge of Perfection.
Each. So help me God !
Or.\ Com.-. Rise, my Brethren. Illustrious Grand
Master of Ceremonies, you will now invest the offi¬
cers or the Lodge with their appropriate regalia and
insignia of office, beginning with the Grand Tiler.
This being- done, the Grand Commander returns to the East, and
says:
Or.'. Com.-. Brother Grand Master of Ceremonies,
conduct the Thrice Puissant Grand Master to my
left, after which you will conduct the other officers
elect of the Lodge to their respective stations, (begin¬
ning with the Grand Tiler,) and let the officers occu¬
pying the stations yield them up.
installation of officers.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies goes to the Grand Master, sa¬
lutes, recovers, and conducts him to the left of the Grand Com¬
mander; salutes again, recovers, and then conducts the officers to
their places and stations, beginning with the Grand Tiler. The oc¬
cupant rises as the officer approaches, bows, retires by the left and
returns to his original seat in front of the East. When all are thus
placed and stationed, the Grand Commander says:
Or.-. Com.-. Thrice Puissant, your officers are at
their respective stations, and nothing remains but
for you to assume yours : be pleased to do so.
The Thrice Puissant Grand Master assumes his station.
Gr.-. Coin.-. Receive, my Brother, the letters-pat¬
ent of Constitution of your Lodge [presents it]; may it
continue and prosper, and may its name be ever hon ¬
ored among men.
Receive now this mallet, symbol of authority ; as¬
sume the government of your Lodge, and rule it with
urbanity, impartiality and firmness.
Gr.\ Com,.-, o o o [All rise.] To the glory of the
Great Architect of the Universe, in the name and
under the auspices of the United Supreme Council
of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General of the
Thirty third and last degree of the Ancient Ac¬
cepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry for the South¬
ern Jurisdiction of the United States, whose see is
at Washington, in the District of Columbia, I pro¬
claim Lodge of Perfection No. —, to be con¬
secrated and inaugurated, its officers duly installed,
and the Lodge legally organized and prepared to
enter upon its labors.
Brethren of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory,
unite with me in congratulating the Thrice Puissant
Grand Master and his Lodge.
All give tlie whole battery, by all the numbers, and then the
plaudit and sign. The Grand Master responds to the remarks of
the Grand Commander, and concludes by saying:
n ,/j
INSTAIJ.ATiuN flF Oi'PlcF.i;
T.\ P. \ (J.-. M.-. Officers and members of the
Lodge, anile with me in doing honor to the Illustri¬
ous Grand Commander and the officers and members
of the Most Puissant Grand Consistory [or as the case
may be |.
The same battery, acclamation and signs are given.
T.\ P.-. Be seated, my Brethren.
The floor is offered to the Brethren by the Grand Master through
the Senior and Junior Wardens.
Then the Box of Fraternal Assistance is passed around,
Nothing remains but to close the Lodge.