Pike Albert - The Porch and the Middle Chamber the Book of the Lodge

8/20/2019 Pike Albert - The Porch and the Middle Chamber the Book of the Lodge

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THE

PORCH AND THE

MIDDLE CHAMBER

THE BOOK OF THE LODGE

Albert PikeISBN 1-56459-308-8


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SECRET WORK


THE PORCH

AND

THE MIDDLE CHAMBER

THE BOOK

OFTHE LODGE

SECRET WORK

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INTRODUCTION

Mbert Pike’s The Book of the T,odde was published in 1872,in a limited edition. It has been our finding that, outside of the vaults of the Supreme Councils for the Southern andNorthern Jurisdictions of the United States, and severalGrand Lodge libraries, this document is not to be found. Of the “Secret Work,” no complete copies appear to exist outsideof the Supreme Councils.

As Brother Pike noted (p 14, Book of the Lodge) “This Ritualis intended for instruction only, in the States of theSouthern Jurisdiction, where there are no Lodges workingthe Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite; to be studied andunderstood before investiture with the fourth degree. For,without it, the system of that Rite is incomplete, and evenlike a fabric without foundation.”

It may be correctly assumed that Pike had intended thisRitual of the first three degrees of the Ancient and AcceptedScottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction, as a supplement to the“American Rite” Degrees 1 through 3, and not a replacementfor it. This to provide that “post—graduate” instruction sonecessary to allow an effective transition from the one Riteto the other.

Due to a prevailing provincial mentality that exists amongthe hierarchy of Freemasonry today, the fear that Pike’sRitual would supplant the existing American Rite Degrees, haseffectively buried this important document in the hope thatits implied “threat” would somehow disappear. But such is

not to be the case.

It is with great pleasure that we, who are student’s of Albert Pike’s philosophy, and of the Ancient Mysteries ingeneral, publish Albert Pike’s The Book of the Lodge

The Secret Work, as provided here, to these three degreeshas been faithfully reconstructed from fragments of theoriginal document, plus esoteria from French, Spanish, andLatin American manuscripts that existed from 1830 through1880. In determining the nature of the esoteria and how

best to apply it, we adopted methodologies used by AlbertPike in his Degrees 4— 32. It is our contention that thisSecret Work is true to the intent of Pike’s Ritual, and thatany variances (unless otherwise noted) are purelyunintentionaL

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SECRET W OR KTHE BOOK OF THE LODGE

DEGREE 1

APPRENTICE

0 . 1 .

[p 38]There must also be a third room, styled th e “Chamber of Reflection”. It

should be a story below th e lodge room; and, if possible, underground, with

no v in do v. T he f l o or m u st , in any case, b e of e arth. On th e walls should

be brief sentences of morality , and max ims of austere philosophy, writtenas i f with c harc oal. Among them must be these:

0 . 2 .

[p 3 8 ]

Over th e door of th e vault is a transparency in th e shape of th e t op of a

coffin painted i n b lack , on which th e following words, made to appear

luminous with a blood-red light, at th e proper time, by means of a lamp,

introduced from th e outside, through a small wicket.

Over th e pile of bones is written:

“The vile remains of a perjured traitor!”

Over th e skeleton:

“Death, avenger of perjury and treason!”

On th e coffin, over th e breast of the supposed corpse:

“An Apprentice faithless and erased!”

The door should have a large, heavy iron lock, like that of a dungeon, with

a huge bolt.

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In the center of the room i s placed a small wooden table. Next to i t, a

rock or mound of earth, which is th e only s eat. On the table are placed a

single light, set in a hu man skull, a s m a ll b e ll , a s m a l l loaf or roll of

bread, a basin of water, containers of s alt, sulphur and mercury; and

paper, pens and ink.

On th e floor near th e table i s a coffin (with only th e head of the corpse

s how i n g ) . In one corner stands a s keleton , complete, holding in o ne hand

an arrow, in th e other a dagger. I n another corner a s k u l l an d other human

bones li e in a confused head on the ground.

0.3.

[p 49]SW : Brothers Senior and Junior Deacons [or Expertand Assistant Expert], you will determine if all present areMasons.

(1 rap) Brethren, to order as Masons.

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[p 50]V M : Brother Senior Warden, are you a Mason?

SW : My brothers recognize me as such.

VM ; Who is a Mason?

SW : A free man of good morals, equally a friend of

the poor and the rich, who is virtuous.VM: What have you come here to do?

SW : To learn to overcome my passions, to subdue my

will, and to make new progress in Masonry.

VM : What are the fundamental precepts of a Mason?

SW : Fraternal love, relief, and truth.

VM: What is Freemasonry?

SW : A fraternal system of morals, illustrated bysymbols, in association with honest brothers, who seek theperfection of human morals.

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SECRET WORKTHE BOOK OF THE LODGE

VM : What is the work of a Mason?

SW : To dig pits for vice arid to raise temples tovirtue.

VM : Ho w should I recognize you to be a Mason?

SW : By my signs, a word, and the grip.

VM : What brings you here?

SW : My obligation.

VM : What do you bring here with you?

SW : Love for my brethren and zeal for the interests

of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.

0.5.

[p 501Th e Venerable Master raps two times an d all officers stand.

0 . 6 .

[p 521Th e Venerable Master rises an d approaches the Senior Deacon [Expert]. 10th

make th e sign of th e degree and then clasp right hands. T he M as te r

whispers the Sacred Word of an Apprentice to the S enior Deacon [Expert].

They then step back.

VM : Brother Senior Deacon [Expert], carry the SacredWord of the First Degree to the Senior Warden.

Th e Senior Deacon [Expert] approaches the S enior Warden’s station, wh o

rises and receives th e word in th e same w ay. Th e Senior Warden in tur n

gives th e word to the Junior Deacon [Assistant Expert] and orders hi . to

carry it to th e Junior Warden. Th e Deacons [Experts] return to their

stat ions.

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SECRET WORKTH E BOOK OF THE LODGE

0.7.

[p 54]The Junior Warden raps three times, followed by the Senior Warden, who ra ps

three times, followed by th e Venerable Master, who raps three times.

VM : My brethren, let us return thanks to the GrandArchitect of the Universe for the many blessings with whichHe has surrounded us, and implore His aid to enable us toperform our duties.

PRE: Sovereign Author of the Universe, we pay youthe sincere homage of our fervent gratitude for all theblessings which your infinite goodness has bestowed uponus. W e implore you to purify our hearts by the sacred fireof your love, and to guide and direct us in the ways of virtue. Let peace and charity form the chain of our union.Cause us in this lodge faintly to imitate the state andcondition of your elect in Your holy and spiritual kingdom.Enable us in all things to discern and adopt the good andreject the evil. Let us not be deceived by pretended zeal

and devotion, nor deceive ourselves as to our weakness anderrors. Aid us in advancing the purposes and attaining theobjects of the true and genuine Masonry, and thus enable usto serve our fellows and assist in carrying forward yourgreat designs. Amen.

ALL: So mote it be.

VM : With me, my brethren.

All give, the Venerable Master leading, the battery ( 3 x 3) . This i s

followed by the Sign three times, each time saying:

ALL: Huzza!

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[p 581VM : (3 raps) To order, my brethren.

All stand under the Sign of Order for the degree.

VM : From whence come you?

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M C : A visitor, from the Lodge of Saint John of Scotland [or, the Holy Saints John].

Th e Master of Ceremonies gives the name and lodge of th e visitor(s).

[The French Ritual adds the following:]

V M : What do you bring with you to this place?

M C : Obedience to the Venerable Master, love,

gladness, health an d welfare to all my brethren.

VM: What it done in the Lodge of Saint John?

M C : Wreaths are twined and temples are erected forvirtues. While dungeons are carved out and chainsfashioned for vice.

V M : What have you come here to do?

MC: Conquer my passions, subdue my d e s i r e s , an d

make further p r o g r e s s in Masonry.

0.9.

[p 6 4 ]Th e Deacon [Expert] meets with the candidate in th e retired room, l i e

relieves the brother in waiting an d proceeds to prepare the candidate by

bl in df old in g him, saying:

JD : Mister ( A . B . 1 , I c o v e r your eyes w ith thisb l i n d f o l d , no t t o prevent your observing your surroundings,but t o s h u t out an y distractions which mi gh t o c cu r alongt h i s short journey.

I t i s my duty t o conduct you to a room knowna s the Chamber o f R e f l e c t i o n , where, in s i l e n c e an d s o l i t u d e ,

you will have opportunity to meditate in silence.

As they de sc en d, t he re s ho ul d be th e mound of dripping water and the

squealing of rats.

Th e Deacon [Experti conducts the candidate to a seat in th e Chamber of

R eflec tion . The Deacon [Ixporti withdraws silently, and a brother (a s t he

Preparer) enters. l i e is clothed in a long black domino, with a broad -

br imm ed slouched hat, a nd h is ftc. covered by a mask of black silk, with a

sword by hi s side. Th e Preparer says:

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THE B O O K OF THE LODGE

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[p 6 5 1The Preparer exits, closes th e d oor, and knocks 3 times.

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[p 661After a minute. or s o, the s ou n d of chains wi ll b e rattled without, and

cries, groans and moan s will be heard, followed by a great crash. There

are cries, as of pain an d terror, and then dead s i l e n c e .

Then li g ht will be i n trod u ced , making th e writing on the transparency

legible.

0.12.

[p 701The Deacon [Expert] prepares the candidate by divesting hi m of all metal,

giving him a garment to w ear; right foo t, k nee, ar m, and breast bare;

blindfolded with a rope ( c a bl e t ow ) t h r ee times around his neck.

0.13.

[p 7 0 ]

The Pursuivant or Junior Deacon places th e point of his s w o r d against the

naked breast of the candidate.

PUR: W ho is this audacious one who attempts to forceentry into the temple?

SD : Calm yourself, my brother. Mister {A.B,1 has nointention of penetrating, in spite of you, into this sacredenclosure. The man who comes and knocks is a candidatedesiring to receive light, and who humbly entreats of ourvenerable lodge.

PUR: Is he a free man and of good repute?

SD : He is.

PUR: Is he properly prepared?

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SECRET WORKTHE B O O K O F THE LODGE

He is.

Th e Pursuivant or Junior Deacon closes the d o or , t u rn s an d reports:

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[p 72]Th e Pursuivant or Junior Deacon

PtJR:

opens the do o r , an d s a y s :

Enter.

TB :

C A N :

Th e Senior Deacon conducts the candidate to a point between the two columns

(about five feet i n si de t he lodge r o o m ) an d stops. He is met by th e

“Terrible Drother” (one wh o has been selected to a c t as such from among the

br ethr en). Th e Terrible Brother places the p o i n t of th e sword on th e naked

b r e a s t .

Mister {A.B.}, what do you feel?

(P R O M P T E D ) The point of a weapon.

TB : Mister {A.B.}, the steel, whose point you feel, isa symbol of the remorse which will tear at your heart if disgraced, at some future date, by your becoming a traitoragainst this august society, which has received you into ourbosom, because you are a man of honor.

Th e s w o r d in removed.

What do you see?

Nothing.

TB: The blindfold that covers your eyes is a symbolof the blindness in which man finds himself, when dominatedby the passions and submerged in ignorance andsuperstition.

TB:

CAN:

VM :

C A N :

V M :

C A N :

Mister (A.B.}, what is your opinion of Masonry?

(ANSWER)

Is it your intention to become a Mason?

It is

SD:

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V M : Is it o f your own free w i l l , without an y

compulsion or persuasion, that you present yourself?

0.15.

[p 7 6 )

Just inside the do o r , a lar ge wooden frame s t a n d s , i n w h i c h th e empty space

i s filled by a paper screen. Th e whole being supported by brothers on

each sid e.

B R i: What s h a l l we do w i th the profane?

BR2: Shut hi m up i n the cavern!

Two brethren seize th e c andidate and th ro w h im th ro ugh t he p ap er screen

into th e arms of tw o other brethren who stand r eady to r e c e i v e him. Th e

outer do o r , previously left open, is shut with gr eat noise.

BR3: The incubation i s complete!

BR4: I t i s tim e. Make t he p r of a ne c o m e forth f r o m

the mystic chaos in which he e x i s t s !

Th e candidate is assisted up and conducted to th e Senior Wardens station.

0.16. [0.14.]

[p 9 4 ]Th e Venerable ilaster raps 3 times an d al l brethren stand.

The Senior Warden proceeds to th e a lta r a nd places in th e hands of th e

candidate a cup without a handle and divided i nt o t wo p ar ts . In on e part

is water sweetened , dth h on ey . I n th e other water made bitter with gentian

o r some other harmless herb or drug; or ther e may be tw o cups precisely

alike in shape.

SW: Mister { A . B . ) , you w i l l r e p ea t t he w or ds w hi c h Iam about to say, exactW.

SW ’CAN: I , { A . B . 1 , in the presence o f the Great Architecto f th e Uni ver s e, an d o f the brethren now here assembled, do

m o s t s o lem nly an d sincereW p r o m i s e an d s w e ar , t ha t I w i l lnever reveal an y o f the secrets an d mysteries w h i c h may

hereafter be entrusted to me, forever hereafter, in respectto a l l the t e s t s , whether my i n i t i a t i o n b e c o m p le t ed o r r e m a i n

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incomplete, t o any person in the world, who s h a l l n ot bee n t i t l e d a t the ti m e to receive them.

I furthermore p r o m i s e an d s w e a r that I w i l l

b a t t l e to control u n restrain ed passions, i n m y s e l f a s i no t h e r s ; an d that I w i l l practice the virtues o f kindness,

generosity an d beneficence, especially wi th my brethren;giving advise and counsel when requested, and providing fortheir necessities when in need.

To all of which I most solemnly and sincerely

promise on my honor of silence.

A Deacon (expert] places th e candidate’s right hand over his heart, while

t he candidate takes a drink of th e sweetened water. Th e Senior Warden

t a k e s th e cup. an d th e following is said :

SW: Mister {A.B.1, you will continue to repeat thewords after me.

SW!

CAN: And, if I should ever violate my obligation, Iconsent to this which the sweetness of this beveragechanges itself to bitterness, and to this which its beneficialeffect becomes for m e that of a subtle poison.

The Senior Warden returns the cup (bitter side to the candidate, or a

second cup with bitter water) to the candidate. Th e candidate’s right hand

s t i l l over his heart, wh en h e is to ld to tak e a drink from th e cup.

SW : Mister {A.B.}, your expression changes. Is thesweet already become bitter? Perhaps your conscience belies

your words?

The Senior Warden then takes the cup and places it on the altar.

L I T U R G Y A .

[p 9 6 , Litu rg y p 5 9 ]V M: From the e a r l i e s t t i m e s , the i n i t i a t e In to the

Mysteries was subjected to physical trials if his courage andendurance. Pythagoras imposed on his disciples five years

of silence. Wherever the Mysteries were practiced, andunder whatever name, the good faith, devotion and manhoodof the candidate were tested, and complete assurance of themhad, before he was irradiated by the light of truth.

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I n th e middle a g e s , when the church o f Ro m e,s i t t i n g on the ruins o f the f a l l e n empire, reigned supreme

o v e r consciences, Masonry, claiming a s i t s patron Saint Johnthe Evangelist, needed to require similar tests and trials.Like the early Christian mysteries, it was adiscipline.” For, during whole centuries, a word, the leastindiscretion, a gesture, was a death warrant. The miter andcrown were then in league together against man.

The Inquisition classed Masons with Jews andheretics, and dealt with them by the tender mercies of torture. To be a Mason then, was to expose one’s self to the

same dangers as surrounded the Christian under Nero andDomitian. The existence of the entire Masonic body wasinvolved in every initiation.

Masonry comes more directly from the mysteriesof the sun, and those of Mithra, in Persia. There theaspirant commenced by easy tests, and arrived by degreesat those that were most cruel, in which his life was oftenendangered. N o one can be initiated, says Suidas, untilafter he has proven, by the most terrible trials, that hepossesses a manly soul, exempt from the sway of every

passlon.

Masonry has softened, but has not chosen todispense with, the ancient tests; for it is not in freecountries only that she exists; nor is it in them that sheplays the most important part. Neither, even in these, isthere any guarantee of the eternity of freedom, or that thepowers of government may not be usurped by those to whichmasonry might become dangerous, and would be hostile,unless false to its mission.

0.17.

[p 9 7 ]VM : Terrible Brother, you will seat the candidateupon the stone of reflection.

The candidate i s conducted to the east where th e Rough Ashlar is situated.

The Terrible Irother returns to hi s station.

VM : Withdraw, my brethren, that this man may beleft to his conscience and to that darkness which covers hiseyes.

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Four or f iv e brethrun. make noise of people exiting the lodge, closing th edoor noisily, etc. Then absolute silence is maintained fo r about tw o

min utes.

0.18.

[p 9 7 1Th e Terrible Brother approaches th e candidate and says:

TB : Get up !

The Brother conducts th e candidate Z I I B . f l times around th e lodge, beginning

in the northwest, proceeding first East. then south (past the ilaster’s

station), then west, then north (i n front of the Senior Warden), then east,

and so forth, and ending in front of the Junior Warden.

During this first journey, there is much noise as various brothers argue

back and forth. Blocks of variously sized wood are placed randomly along

the candidate’s path, s o that he may occasionally stumble. Equipme nt

should be placed, on th e route, to generate electrical arcs that noisily

(though harmlessly) crackle. Large heavy balls are rolled on the floor to

imitste thunder.

During th e first circuit, two brothers hold a Deacon’s staff, horizontally.

about five fe et of f the g ro un d. T hi s, th e candidate must pass under:

TB : We are approaching an arch... lower your head...stoop down... proceed slowly.

During the second circuit, t wo m or e b r ot he r s hold a staff, horizontally,

about six inc hes off the g ro un d. T hi s, the candidate must pass over:

TB : There is an obstacle ahead... go slow.., life upyour right foot and pass over.., now lift up your left foot.

During the third circuit an incline, made of heavy 3’x8’ plywood, raised

about a f oot at one end, is placed on the candidate’s path. Heanwhile,

several brothers, holding large fans, blow air o nt o th e cand id ate . T he

candidate is made to slowly c limb the in cline and th en told to jump [NOTE:

In alder rituals, th e candidate N55 required to climb a ladder of seven

steps. Once at t j , e summit, he was then told to J ump . A mattress ~aa so placed for his landing]:

TB : Go slowly and have courage, we are at thesummit of the journey. Stop!... Now jump into space!

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Upon landing, th e candidate is given a l i g h t shock with an d electrical

device.

T he candidate is conducted to in f r o nt of the Junior W ar den. Th e Terrible

Brother stamps on th e f lo o r with hi s foot thr ee ti mes . The Junior Warden

gets up immediately an d applies hi s gavel to the candidate’s chest.

JW : W ho comes here?

TB : Thi s i s a profane who requests to be accepteda s a Freemason .

JW :request?

By what right do es he dar e to make t h i s

Because he i s f r e e an d o f good m o r a l s .

Since he i s t h u s , he may p a s s .

Th e brother reconducts th e candidate back to t he t wo columns, turns an d

faces the east.

TB :

completed.

Venerable Master, the first journey has been

0.19.

[p 102]

Th e Terrible Brother conducts th e candidate ~ times around t he l o dg e.

beginning in the south, proceeding fi r s t w es t , then north ( i n f r o nt of th e

Senior Warden), then east, an d south, and e ndin g in f r o nt of t he Senior

W ar den. During this second journey, the brethren rattle and clash s w o r d s .

Th e candidate’s path is c lear with no obstacles.

Th e Terrible Brother stamps on t he f lo o r three times. Th e Senior Warden

gets up immediately an d applies hi s gavel to th e candidate’s chest.

SW : W ho comes here?

TB :as a Freemason.

SW :

requ est?

TB :

Thi s i s a p r o f ane who r eques ts t o be accepted

By what right do es he dar e to make this

Because he i s f r e e an d o f good m o r a l s .

TB :

J W:

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SW: Since he is thus, he may pass and be purifiedby water. He will now wash in the ancient spirit of leavingall passions, vice and falsehood behind, that he may enter,as the neophyte, into the ancient Mysteries, cloaked only inclean and white garments.

A basin of water is brought before th e candidate, and h e is to i mme rs e hi s

left han d in th e w at er three times. The c an didate’s hands are dried and

th e Brother reconducts th e candidate back to t he t wo columns, turns and

faces the east.

TB : Venerable Master, the second journey has beencompleted.

L I T U R G Y B .

[p 1 0 3, Litu rg y p 6 4 ]VM: In the Druidical Mysteries, among the trials ofthe candidate, he was placed in a boat and sent out to seaalone, having to rely on his own skill and presence of mindto reach the opposite shore in safety. If the candidatedeclined it, he was dismissed with contempt. If he made itand succeeded, he was termed “thrice—born,” was eligible toall the dignities of the state, and received completeinstruction in the philosophical and religious doctrines of theDruids.

When the aspirant was initiated into theMysteries of Isis, he was conducted to the nearest baths,and after having bathed, the priest first solicitedforgiveness of him of the gods, and then sprinkled him all

over with the clearest and purest water, and conducted himback to the temple. It was required of every initiate thathis heart and hands be free of every stain. It wasrepresented that, except for the gravest sins, there wasopportunity for expiation; and the tests of air, water, andfire were represented, by means of which, during the marchof many years, the soul could be purified, and rise towardthe ethereal regions. The ascent being more or less tediousand laborious, according as each soul was more or lessclogged by the gross impediments of its sins and vices.

In the Mithriac Mysteries, the candidate waspurified with water and fire, and went through seven stagesof initiation. Ablutions were required in all the mysteries,symbolical of the purity necessary to enable the soul toescape from its bondage in matter.

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Sacred baths and preparatory baptisms wereused, lustrations, immersions and purifications of every kind.At Athens, the aspirants bathed in the Ilissus, whichsubsequently became a sacred river. Before entering theTemple of Eleusis, all were required to wash their hands in avase of lustral water, placed near the entrance. Apuleiusbathed seven times in the sea, symbolical of the sevenspheres which the soul must reascend. The Hindus mustbathe in the sacred River Ganges. Menander speaks of apurification by sprinkling three times with salt and water.Water nourishes and purifies. The urn from which it flowed

as thought worthy to be a symbol of the Deity, as of theOsiris—Ganobus, who with living water irrigated the soil of Egypt; and also an emblem of hope. That should cheer thedwellings of the dead. In the terrible and dangerous testsof some of the old Mysteries, the candidate was made to swima river.

0.20.

[p 104]

The Terrible Brother conducts th e candidate ThBJ.Z times around t he l o dg e ,

be gi nni ng in the west, proceeding first north, then east, then south and

west, to in front of th e Venerable ilaster. During this th i rd j ou rn e y,

there is absolute silence and no obstructions block the path of th e

candidate.

Th e Terrible Brother stamps on th e floor three t ime s. T he Venerable Hester

gets up immediately an d applies his gavel to the candidate’s chest.

VM : W ho comes here?

TB : This is a profane, baptized, who requests to be

accepted as a Freemason.

VM : By what right does he dare to make this

request?

TB : Because he is free and of good morals.

VM : Since he is thus, he may pass by the purifyingflames, in order that nothing of his past profane life may

r e m a l n .

A candle is brought before the candidate, and h e i s to pass his right hand

slowly ov e r t he f la m e t h re e times (being careful not to inflict d a s i a g e ) .

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(NOTE: In older rituals, a blast of flame was blown into the face of the candidate by use of a long metallic tube having at one end a aouth-piece

and at the other a spirit-lamp, surrounded with wire gauze. The tube

contained lycopodium or arcanson in powder, which, when blown upon the

spirit-lamp would cause a harmless flash of flame.]

Th e Drother reconducts th e candidate back to th e t wo column s, turns and

faces the east.

TB : Venerable Master, the third journey has beencompleted.

0.21.

[p 1061VM: Terrible Brother, conduct the candidate to theBrother Surgeon. (DONE)

Brother Surgeon, do your duty.

A brother, “ h o h as been appointed as Surgeon, steps up and addresses th e

candidate:

Surgeon: Mister { A . B . } , i t gives me great p l e a s u r e tocongratulate you upon the progress you have made in yoursearch for light and truth, and upon the possession of thatfortitude which has sustained you in your journeys, pursuedby so many good and true men before you.

Courage has been ever deemed a prerequisite toMasonic advancement. You have been tested by earth, air,

water and fire. At each step of your advancement, a degreeof fortitude was demanded. You will not, then, be surprisedto learn that a further test awaits you, not only of fortitudebut of sincerity.

Coursing through your arteries and veins is acrimson fluid essential to life. So precious is it to everyman that he who sheds his blood in defense of a cause, orin the line of duty, proves in the most decisive manner hisdevotion thereto.

I propose here, in the presence of the brethren,to take from you the amount of blood that you mayvoluntarily offer to sacrifice. The whole amount of blood inthe human body is about 1/13 of the body’s weight. In thebountiful provision of nature several pounds of this vital

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fluid may be lost and again restored. But, should the limit

of safety be passed and your physical life be lost, yourname w i l l be enrolled among the gods, an d you w i l l bei m m o r t a l . The worthy Mason surmounts all difficulties;surpasses all obstacles, and, to fear, becomes a hardenedstatue.

Terrible Brother, you will bare the right arm of the candidate. Place your staff in his right hand. (DONE)

TB : Brother Surgeon, the candidate has beenprepared.

The Brother holds th e arm of the candidate. lleanwhile, th e Surgeon ties a

cord around th e arm, and when the ve in i s raised, he passes th e point of a

needle (clean) or pen kn ife again st a small point on th e arm of th e

candidate. At th e same time, a syringe filled with tepid water, is placed

above th e “scratch” on th e arm, a nd water is allowed to trickle on the arm.

th e liquid falling to a bowl. After about 10 - 1 5 s ec on d s , stop! ulpe th e

candxdate~s arm dry and place a bandage over the supposed cut.

V M : Mister {A.B.}, you probably can tell that youhave been mock bled. This was done, not to trifle with yourfeelings, but to test your courage. It has been one of thelandmarks of this institution, that the courage should bethus tested; and should any prove to be recreant to theirpromise, they would immediately be led out of the chamberwithout ever once beholding the beauties of our institution.I ani satisfied that you possess the necessary courage,fortitude, manhood and perseverance to entitle you toreceive the secrets of our ancient rite.

MISSING P A G E

[p 1 1 0 )to give it deprives you of some luxury or comfort, and

truly makes you poorer than before, it is the widow’s mite,as acceptable in the sight of heaven as the rich man’s costlyofferings would be. Your gift is received and accepted bythe lodge with grateful thanks.

0.22.

[p 1 1 1 ]VM : Terrible Brother, seat the candidate.

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SECRET WORK


The candidate is seated in a chair in front of th e east.

VM: Soon, Sir, you are to reap the harvest of thetrials you have endured. W e are disposed to reward thesense pf beneficence you have just displayed. However, itis my duty to consult once more those with whom I am aboutto associate you to learn if there be no objection to presentagainst your admission.

Any br othe r pr esen t may now a sk th rou gh h is Harden for leave to speak,

either to object or defend the candidate from an objection. However, in

each instance, the c an didate having rec eived a c lear ballot, these

objections are to b e unwoundingly friendly and frivolous.

The Venerable Master must keep stri ct c on tr ol. N o r eal objection may be

pre sen ted now. Such must h av e b e en made privately to the Master before the

candidate was first brought in.

Wh en all discussion has finished, th e Venerable Master will say:

0.23.

[p 1 1 1 ]On the altar, to the east, in front of the Bible, is placed the mannequin

head representing “John th e Baptist.~~

The candidate is again blindfolded and conducted into the lodge r oo m v ia

the preparation roo, door, stopping between the tw o columns.

VM: Brother Guide, you will deliver the candidateinto the hands of the Senior Warden, so that he may teach

him to make the first step in the angle of an oblong square.After that, conduct Him to the east, in order that he mayconsent to his obligation.

SW: Mister {A.B.}, you will approach the altar in thefollowing manner: Stand erect. Advance your left foot.Now advance the right, bringing the heel of the right to theheel of the left, forming the angle of a square. Now repeatthis step two more times.

The Senior warden Returns to his Seat.

SW: Venerable Master, the candidate has taken therequired steps.

VM: Place the candidate to the altar.

— 21 —


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SECRET WORKTHE BOOK OF THE LO D G E

Th e Conductor causes th e candidate to kneel on both k nees. Both o f th ecandidate’s hands are placed on th e Holy Bible, over which a square and a

compasses are resting on th e altar.

Th e Venerable I ~ 1 a s t e r raps three times and all brethren stand.

VM : Mister {A.B.}, the engagement which you havecontracted contains nothing offensive with respect to yourduty to God and to good morals, nor to the obedience youowe to the laws. This obligation is a serious matter andbecause of that it will be necessary that you consent of

your own free will. Therefore, do you consent?

CAN: (ANSWER)

VM: You will repeat the words which I am about tos a y , e x a c t l y .

VM/

CAN: I, {A.B.1, in the presence of the Great Architecto f t he U n i v e rs e , an d o f the brethren now here assembled, do

most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, that I willnever reveal any of the secrets of Freemasonry that may beconfided in m e to any person in the world, who shall not beentitled at the time to receive them.

I furthermore promise and vow that I will beartrue allegiance to the Supreme Council of the InspectorsGeneral of the 33rd Degree, and will pay due obedience toits regulations, statutes and edicts; and that I will obey andabide by the by-laws, rules, and regulations of the Lodge ofApprentices to which I may belong, so long as I continue a

member thereof.

Further, I promise to love my brethren, tosuccor them, and to aid them in their need, according to myability.

To all of which I do most solemnly pledge myfaith and honor; and if I should ever fail my obligation, mayI be disgraced by my brothers, as if having my throat cutand be buried in the sands of the sea, that the ebb andflow bear m e into eternal oblivion. May the Great Architect

of the Universe aid m e to keep and perform the same.

— 22—


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VM : Brother Senior Deacon, you will remove thecabletow from this new brother as he is now bound to us byhis obligation.

Th e cabletow is removed as instruc ted. Terrible Brother then h el ps t he

candidate to rise and they return to a point between th e two columns.

VM: My brothers, do your duty!

0.24.

( p 1 1 1 ]The Venerable Master raps three times slowly. On

Harden removes th e blindfold from th e candidate.

th e head of “John the Baptist” in front of him.

VM: However horrible this scenelet no fears arise in your mind.

0.25.

[p 116]VM: If light, let it be so.

Wisdom excels folly as far as light excelsdarkness. The light shines in the darkness and thedarkness has not overcome it. And the universe was withoutform and confused, and darkness brooded on the face of theabyss, and the spirit of God moved on the expanse ofwaters, and God said, “Let there be light.” And, there was

light.

Th e Master raps three times slowly. On the third rap, the guide removes

th e blindfold from th e candidate. A puff of flame near the f ac e of the

candidate in provided by a blowpipe-like device. Th e Venerable Master raps

three times on th e head of the compasses.

VM: My brother, learn, by the precision of thecompasses, to direct all your movements towards good.

the third ra p, t h e Junior

In the dim light he see s

may appear t o you,

—23-


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SECRET WORK


0.26.

[p 1 1 9 ]Then, over the neophyte’s head, th e I ~ 1 a s t e r strikes three blows, at equal

intervals, with his mallet, on th e blade of hi s sword.

VM: A r i s e , my brother.

0.27.

[p 1 2 1 ]VM: There are two signs: The Sign of Order is madeby standing and placing the flat of the right hand underthe throat, bent slightly toward the carotid artery of theleft, the four fingers pressed and the thumb separated inthe form of a square, and the left arm hanging out. ThisSign has an allusion to the penalty of your obligation is youshould ever violate it.

The Sign of Recognition is made after you havebeen placed in order, by placing horizontally your righthand near the right shoulder, and by a movement thatsimulates the act of cutting your throat, then immediatelyallowing your right hand to fall the length of the body. Youwill find that you have, by this sign, depicted a squareupon yourself. This is also called the Guttural Sign.

The March of an Apprentice is made in threesteps in the following manner: Stand erect. Advance yourleft foot. Now advance the right, bringing the heel of theright to the heel of the left, forming the angle of a square.

Now repeat this step two more times. The first stepaddresses the Venerable Master, the second, the Brethren inthe North, and the third, the Brethren in the South. Thismarch is to be used when entering the lodge andapproaching the altar and is to be followed by the Sign ofRecognition.

The Grip is made by engaging the right hand ofthe one whom you wish to be acquainted with. You placeyour thumb on the first knuckle of his index finger, andthen you tap l i g h t l y three times in the hollow o f hi s hand.

This Grip, when given by a brother, i s , at the s a m e time, thedemand of the Sacred Word.

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SECRET WORK


The Sacred Word, or “the Word”, is not ever tobe pronounced, much less written. In order to communicateit between Masons, they spell it by letter, the one to theother, orally, as follows:

(TO THE SENIOR D E ACO N) Give m e the SacredWord.

SD: The Sacred Word cannot be pronounced.

VM: How will you give it?

SD: We may only spell it. I will give you the firstletter and you will give m e the second.

B .

VM: 0.

SD: A.

VM: Z .

This word signifies “force.” You see the firstletter on the column to the north. Remember, when onedemands of you the Sacred Word of a Freemason, you shallrespond: “The Sacred Word cannot be pronounced. We mayonly spell it. I will give you the first letter and you willgive m e the second.”

[The French ritual continues:]

VM: The Battery of a Mason is made by slowlyclapping the palms of the hand, three times, thus... You willrepeat the battery with me. (DONE)

The Battery of Applause is made by clapping thehands three times in the same manner and stamping with theleft heel at the third clap.

My brother, the things that you see us do willbecome familiar to you. W e do all things in the “square”and that the number “3” is, to us, a mysterious number.

Thus, when a brother asks you your age, you should replythat you are “three ye&rs of age”. D o you understand?

CAN: (ANSWER)

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SECRET WORK


M C : The president o f t h i s lodge is titled the

Venerable Master. You will now respond by giving that title.

CAN: Venerable Master.

VM : This is good. I recognize you to be an

Apprentice M ason .

0.28.

[p 1 2 2 ]

This section cannot be determined from resources available. It is unique to the Pike work. It undoubtedly refers todifferences in Sacred Words and their pronunciations, as wellas structural differences in each respective Rite’s work. For example:

The Sacred Word of this degree is “boaz”, but is variously pronounced as “bohaz” and “booz.” In the Grand Orient of France, the Sacred Word of an Apprentice is “ja kin (jachin) “. In addition, the Rites in Europe make use of a “Word of theSemester” to be used as a password.

The March of an Apprentice is on the left foot. In theGrand Orient of France, the March is the same with theexception that it is on the right foot.

The Battery of this Degree is “* * *“, but in the Grand Orient of France it is “** *“.

Differences between this Work and the York (American) Riteequivalent degrees should already be known.

0.29.

[p 1 3 2 ]entering into a new life, you were made to wear the

clothes of an initiate. All metals were removed from you,and you were deprived of the use of your sight.

By taking away all metals, we taught you of thecondition of m an before civilization in a state of nature;

while the darkness presented to you man in completeignorance.

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SECRET WORKTHE BOOK OF ThE LODGE

[p 137]A sword

0.30.

[p 1 5 0 ]The Venerable Master and brethren clap (3 X 3).

acclamation three times:

All:

This is followed by the

Huzza!

0.31.

[p 1 5 0 ]If he t a ke s t he p en a nd p ro ce ed s to write, the Master of Ceremonies will

strike a blow on the table with hi s sword. The Venerable Master, striking

another with hi s mallet will say:

VM: Have you so soon forgotten, or did you notunderstand your obligation! Repeat that part of yourobligation!

If th e candidate cannot, th e Venerable Master will repeat it fo r him, then

continue:

0.32.

[p 1 5 0 ]

If the candidate refuses to write, th e Venerable Master will commend hi.fo r his prudence and memory of his obligation.

0.33.

(1 rap) Brother Senior Warden, what age are

Three years.

What is the length of time that masons work?

From high noon until midnight.

[p 1 6 0 ]

VM:

you?

SW:

VM:

SW:

— 2 7 —


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SECRET WORK


VM: What is the hour?

SW: It is midnight.

VM : Since it is midnight and this is the hour inwhich Masons end their labor, brothers Senior and JuniorWardens, invite the brethren of the two columns to join withyou and m e in closing this Lodge of Apprentices.

JW: Brethren in the south, this lodge is about to beclosed.

SW: Brethren in the north, this lodge is about to beclosed.

The Venerable Master raps 3 times and al l t he brethren stand

VM: In the name of God and of Saint John ofScotland, and under the auspices of the Supreme Council(Mother—Council of the world), of the 33d and last degree ofthe Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Free—masonry, forthe Southern Jurisdiction of the United S t a t e s , an d byvirtue of the authority in me vested a s Venerable M a s t e r o ft h i s Lodge o f Ap p r enti c e M a s o n s , I declare i t to be duly

c l o s e d . W i t h me, my brethren.

All give, the Venerable Master leading, th e battery (3 x 3). Th is i s

followed by th e Sign three times, each time saying:

A l l : Huzza!

The Junior Warden raps 3 times, followed by the Senior Warden, and then th e

Venerable Master, each rapping 3 times.

VM: The lodge is closed, my brethren. G o in peace,but first swear to keep profoundly secret every thing heredone an d transacted t h i s night, not proper to be revealed.

Beginning with th e Senior Warden, all brethren pass in procession in front

of the Venerable Master, who, standing at th e entrance of th e Or i en t , h o ld s

O ut t he hilt of his sword. Each, in turn, lays hi s right hand on th e hilt,

saying:

BR: I vow.

E ND D E G R E E 1 SECRET W ORK

— 2 8 —


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DEGREE 2

FELLOW CRAFT

. 1 . 1 .

[p 1 8 5 ]SW: B r o th er s S e ni o r an d Juni o r Deacons [or Exp er t

and Assistant Expert], you will determine if all present areFellow-Craft Masons.

(1 rap) Brethren, to order as Fellow—CraftMas o ns .

The officers remain at their stations, a nd t he y an d the brethren remain

seated, under th e Sign of t he or de r. Be gi nn in g in the east, the Senior

Deacon [Expert] receives th e password from the brethren on th e north, while

th e Junior Deacon [Assistant Expert], likewise, rec eives the pass from th e

br et hr en on the south.

If either Deacon [Expert] fails to receive the password, or does not

recognize a particular person as such, he directs him, by gesture to rise,If any brother knows the person rising to be a Fellow-Craft Mason in goed

standing, he will rise and so declare. it is n ot enough to have sa t in a

lodge with him. If no one vouches for th e p ar ty , he wi ll b e required to

withdraw to the Preparation Room for examination.

Wh en no ne remain bu t Fellow-Craft Masons, a nd th e E xpe rt an d Assistant

Expert are satisfied, they will return to their places, and standing, th e

Junior Deacon [Assistant Expert] will say:

JD : B r o t h e r Se ni o r D e a co n, a l l o n the column o f the

s o uth are Fellow—Craft M a s o n s .

SD : Brother J u n i o r Warden, a l l on both columns areFellow-Craft M a s o n s .

—29-


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SECRET WORK


JW: Brother Senior Warden, a l l p r e s e nt a re Fellow—

Craft Masons.

SW: Venerable Master, I have satisfied myself that allpresent are Fellow—Craft Masons.

VM: Then, in the name of God and St John theApostle, let us proceed.

Th e Venerable haster raps once and a l l s it .

VM: Brother Senior Warden, are you a Fellow—Craft

Mason?

SW: I have seen the Flaming Star.

VM: What brings you here?

SW: My obligation.

VM: What have you learned as a Fellow Craft?

SW: To acquaint and to correct myself with the chisel

of morals.

VM: At what hour should we open our lodge?

SW: At high noon.

VM: What is the hour?

SW: It is high noon.

VM: Then, since it is the hour at which we open forlabor, let us resume our work, for the benefit of our fellows,our country and mankind,

The Venerable flaster rises an d approaches the Senior Deacon [Expert]. Both

sake th e S ign of th e degree and then clasp right hands. Th e ?laster

whispers the S ac red Word of a Fellow-craft to th e Senior Deacon [Expert].

They then step back.

VM: Brother Senior Deacon [Expert), carry the SacredWord of the Second Degree to the Senior Warden.

The S en ior Deacon [Expert] approaches th e Senior Warden’s station , who

rises a nd receives t he E or d in th e same way. The Senior Warden i n tur n

gives th e Word to the Junior Deacon [Assistant Expert] a nd orders hi m to

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carry it to the Junior Warden. Th e Deacons [Experts] return to theirstat ions.

. 7 W : ( 1 Rap ) Venerable Master, a l l i s just an d

p e r f e c t .

VM: ( 1 r ap ) I t b ei ng h i gh noon, and a l l b e i n g j u s tan d perfect, be pleased, brethren S eni o r an d Juni o r Wardens

to proclaim, o n y our r es p e ct i v e c o l um n s , t h a t I am about toopen the labors o f t h e r es p e ct ab le Lodge , No , inthe Second Degr ee.

SW: ( 1 Rap ) Brother Juni o r Warden, brethren who

grace the column of the north, the Venerable Masterannounces to you that he is about to open the labors of therespectable Lodge , No , in the Second Degree.

JW: (1 Rap) Brethren who grace the column of thesouth, the Venerable Master announces to you that he isabout to open the labors of the respectable Lodge , No.

, in the Second Degree.

(1 Rap) It is proclaimed on the column of thesouth, brother Senior Warden.

S W: (1 Rap) Venerable Master, it is proclaimed on

both columns.

The Venerable Master raps three times and all brethren stand.

VM: To order, my brethren.

The Venerable Master takes off his hat, and says:

±2.

[p 1 8 5 ]VM: W i th m e, my brethren.

All give, Venerable Master leading, the battery (3 x 3). This is followed

by the sign of the degree three times, each time saying:

All: Huzza!

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SECRET W O R KTHE BOOK OF THE LODGE

- f - 3 .[p 189]The Deacon [Expert] prepares th e candidate by divesting hi m of a ll metal,

removing his jacket or coat; left foot. knee, arm , a nd breast bare; with a

rope (cabletow) t hr ee t im es a ro un d h is waist. Th e candidate is f l Q L

bli ndf olde d.

Th e r oom i s darkened, with essentially th e light of candles, illuminating

th e lodge room. The Deacon [Expert] conducts th e candidate (who is holding

a 24-inch gauge) to th e Preparation Room door i nt o t he Lodge where he is

required to rap (C U U).

SW: ( 1 rap) Ven erable Master, an Ap p r enti c e knocks

a t the door o f th e t e m p l e .

VM : (1 RAP) See who this Apprentice is.

SW: (1 RAP) Brother Junior Warden, see who thisApprentice is that knocks at the door.

3W: (1 RAP) Brother Junior Deacon, see who thisApprentice is that knocks at the door.

NOTE: If there is a Pursuivant, the Junior Deacon will passt h i s and fu t ur e o rd e rs t o h i m , and he w i l l reply t o th e

Junior Deacon, what i s set down for th e l a t t e r , he thenreplying t o th e Junior Warden. This w i l l be continually

understood hereafter i n a l l th e Degrees.

The Junior Deacon or Pursuivant will entirely open one leaf of the door. if

it have two.

PUR: Who c o m e s here?

SD: Brother {A.B.), an Apprentice who has workedthe due time.

PUR: Is his master satisfied with him?

SD: He is.

P U R : Is t h i s o f hi s own free w i l l an d accord?

SD : It i s .

The Pursuivant or Junior Daxcon closes the d oo r , tu r n s and reports:

— 3 2 —


34/398


[p 1 9 4 ]On reaching this position, the candiate

the rough stone (Ashlar), and then pass

stone (Perfect Ashlar).

will use th e mallet and chisel upon

th e chisel slightly over the smooth

[p 200]

...have my throat cut across...

1 . 8 .

[MISSING]

- I? .

[p 2 0 6 1Th e candidate lays do wn h is i ns tr um en ts . W it h hi s r ig ht hand, he lifts a

small stone and then uses th e lever in moving a larger one.

±8.

[p 2 1 1 ]The candidate will then la y down his tools and, at the trestle board, place

his right hand flat, so that this thumb and index finger n ay form a right

angle.

±~•

[p 2 2 0 ]The Master of Ceremonies does as instructed. Then he conducts the

candidate (free-handed) once around the lodge room, as before. As they

pass th e Venerable Master’s station he raps (USE CU), then each Warden raps

(U5U EU). They stop at the Venerable Master’s station.

— 3 3 —


35/398


1 . 1 0 .

[p 2 2 0 ]

Th e Venerable Master presents a sword to the candidate.

1 . 1 1 .

[p 2 2 9 ]

Th e Master of Ceremonies hands th e candidate th e gavel, and leads hi m to

th e Rough Ashlar, on which he strikes with th e gavel THREE blows at equal

intervals,

M C : Venerable Master, the candidate has done hislast work as a f a i t h f u l Apprentice.

Th e candidate is conducted to in front of th e Tracing Doard of th is degree.

Th e Mysterious Star and Sacred Letter are illuminated in th e east over th e

Ven erab le Master’s station.

1 .1 2 .[p 235]

As th e Master of Ceremonies and candidate advance, the S en ior Warden rises

and leaves his station. Th e candidate is placed, facing east, about 6 feet

west of the altar.

SW: B r o t h e r {A.B.}, you will approach the altar in the

following manner: Stand erect. Advance your left foot,Now advance the right, bringing the heel of the right to theheel of the left, forming the angle of a square, Now repeatt h i s s tep two m o r e times. Now advance your left footforward and to the right. Bring the heel of the right footto the heel of the left. Now advance your left foot forwardand to the left. Bring the heel of the right foot to the heelo f the l e f t .

Venerable Master, the candidate has taken therequired steps.

VM : Brother Master of Ceremonies, place thecandidate at the altar.

The Master of Ceremonies causes th e candidate to kneel on both knees, Th e

Conductor places in the candidate’s hands on th e holy bible, over which a

square and a COEpaSSS are resting on th e altar.

-34-


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The Master raps three times and all stand.

VM : My brothers, about and to order with yoursword in hand. the can d id ate i s prepared to take theo b l i ga t io n o f a Fellow C r a f t .

Br o ther { A . B . I I , your t o i l s as a Fellow Craft arenow about to begin. You have completed your work as anApprentice. Your obligation as a Fellow Craft w i l l n o t o nl y

bi nd you t o secrecy, but a l s o to the performance o f the

c h i e f duties o f brotherhood . i t w i l l contain n othin g a tv ar i an ce w i th your duties to your G o d, your co un tr y, o r

your f a m i l y . Are you ready to assume i t ?

CAN: (ANSWER)

VM : You will repeat the words which I am about tosay, exactly.

VM/ C A N : I, {A.B.1, in the presence of the Great Architect

of the Universe, and of the brethren now here assembled, dom o s t s o lem nly and sincerely promise and swear, that I willnever reveal any of the secrets of the degree of FellowCraft that may be confided in me to any person in theworld, who shall not be entitled at the time to receive them.

I furthermore promise and vow that I will beartrue allegiance to the Supreme Council of the InspectorsGeneral of the 33d Degree, and will pay due obedience to itsregulations, statutes and edicts; and that I will obey andabide by the by—laws, rules, and regulations of the Lodge of Fellow Crafts to which I may belong, so long as I continue amember thereof.

Further, I will act as a true and faithfulcraftsman, to answer signs and obey summons, and tomaintain the principles inculcated in the former degree.

To all of which I do most solemnly pledge myfaith and honor; and if I should ever fail my obligation, mayI be disgraced by my brothers, as if having my heart torn

out, my body burned and my ashes cast to the wind thatthere remain no more memory of me among the Masons. MayGod aid me to keep and perform the same.

.35...


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VM : Brother {A.B.}, what you have repeated may be

considered a serious promise, and as a pledge o f yourfi d e li t y , and to render i t a s o l e m n obligation binding o n yous o long a s you s h a l l l i v e , you w i l l s e a l it on the Holy Biblewi th your l i p s .

The candidate kisses th e Dible.

VM : Brother Senior Warden, as you are of the firstcolumn of this temple, since the candidate has demonstratedpatience and steadfastness, and has served five years as anApprentice, do you judge him worthy of being admitted

among us?

SW : Yes, Venerable Master.

VM: B r o th er J u ni o r Warden, do you, l i k e w i s e , judge

him worthy of being admitted among us?

3W: Y e s , Venerable Master.

VM: Your progress in Masonry i s mark ed by the

position of the square and compasses. When you were madean Apprentice, both points of the compasses were hid. Inthis degree one is disclosed, implying that you havecompleted your work as an Apprentice and that your toils asa Fellow Craft are now to begin. You are now halfwaybetween the things of earth and those of heaven; betweenthe moral and political, and the philosophical and spiritual.

The Venerable Master grips the saber with hi s left hand and positions th e

strip of metal on the head of th e kneeling candidate. Taking th e gavel

with his right hand and prepares to ra p on the sword.

VM : To the Glory of the Grand Architect of theUniverse, and under the auspices of the Supreme Council of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, and in virtue of thepowers t ha t a re m i ne to confer, I, Ven erable Master o f t h i slodge, create, (RAPS SW OR D) accept, (RAPS SW OR D) andconstitute (RAPS SW OR D) Fellow-Craft Mason, SecondDegree of the Scottish Rite, and member of this lodge.

Arise, my brother. (DONE)

Th e Ilaster raps once and all brothers (ex cludin g th e S en ior Deacon and Mast er of Ceremonies) return to their stations and sit.

— 3 6 —


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SECRET WORK


V M : My brother, there are two signs of a FellowCraft Mason: the Sign of Order is made by standing andplacing the right hand, half-open, palm upwards, on theheart, the four fingers curved and the thumb raised in theform of a square. At the same time the left hand, fullyopen, is raised to the height of the head, the palm inadvance, and the fingers clenched with the thumb raised ina square, the elbow close to the body. This sign has anallusion to the penalty of your obligation is you should everviolate it.

The Sign of Recognition is made after you havebeen placed in order, by returning the right handhorizontally across the heart, from left to right, thenpermitting both the right and left hands to dropsimultaneously to their respective thighs. You will find thatyou have, by this sign, depicted a square upon yourself.This is also called the Pectoral Sign.

The March of a Fellow Craft is made with thethree steps of an Apprentice. Now advance your left footforward and to the right. Bring the heel of the right footto the heel of the left. Now advance your left foot forwardand to the left. Bring the heel of the right foot to the heelof the left forming the angle of a square.

The Grip is made by engaging the right hand of the one whom you wish to be acquainted with. You placeyour thumb on the first knuckle of his middle finger, andthen you tap lightly five times in the hollow of his hand.This Grip, when given by a brother, is, at the same time, thedemand of the Sacred Word.

The Sacred Word, or “the Word”, is not ever to

be pronounced, much less written. In order to communicateit between Masons, they spell it by letter, the one to theother, orally, as follows:

(TO T HE MAST ER OF CEREMONIES) Give me theSacred Word.

M C : The Sacred Word cannot be pronounced.

V M : How will you give it?

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MC : We may only spell it. I will give you the first

letter and you will give me the second.

J.

V M : A.

MC : C .

V M :

M C :

V M :

H .

I.

N.

Thi s Word s i g n i f i e s “ e s t a b l i s h . ” You see thefirst letter on the column to the south. Remember, when onedemands of you the Sacred Word of a Fellow Craft, you shallrespond: “The Sacred Word cannot be pronounced. W e mayonly s p e l l i t . I w i l l give you the f irst letter and you willgive me the second.’

The Password of a Fellow Craft is SHIBBOLETH,which means “an ear o f corn”, o r “ a branch o f an o l i v e

t r e e ’ s . I t i s to be given at the opening of a Lodge of FellowC r a ft s .

The Battery of a Fellow Craft is made by slowlyclapping the palms of the hand, five times, thus: (* * * **). You will repeat the battery with me. (DONE)

When a brother asks you your age, you should

reply that you are “five years of age”.

Brother Senior Deacon, you may return to yourstation. (DONE)

±13.

[p 239]The Venerable Master approaches the candidate and makes a Ta u Cross on hi s

forehead, saying:

V M :c r o s s .

I sanctify you to your work by t h e s i g n o f th e

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±14.

[p 241]The candidate is conducted to a point in front of the Master’s station. On

cue, th e Master of Ceremonies alters th e appearance of the apron.

VM : My brother, you will wear your apron with theflap turned down, and the left corner tucked in the form of a triangle to contain the tools of your labor. This is thedistinguishing badge of a Fellow Craft, and marks the

progress that you have made in the science.

Th e ne

Documents

Pike Albert - The Porch and the Middle Chamber the Book of the Lodge