Foundations of Freemasonry

Renowned Masonic scholar Albert G. Mackey examines the role Pythagoras has played in our fraternity. He begins by examining old records and the potential origin of how the Masonic name "Peter Gower" became a synonym for Pythagoras. He points to an early Masonic reference of Pythagoras and Hermes, dating to 1450, while at the same time pointing out that many of the much later documents are devoid of his name altogether. From there, Mackey explores the history of Pythagoras and what he may have symbolized to some early masons.

Famed masonic scholar Albert G Mackey discusses some deeper symbolism and lesser known masonic lore.

There is no symbol more interesting to the masonic student than the Sprig of Acacia—not only on account of its own peculiar import—but also because it introduces us to an extensive and delightful field of research: that, namely, which embraces the symbolism of sacred plants. In all the ancient systems of religion, and Mysteries of initiation, there was always some one plant consecrated, in the minds of the worshippers and participants, by a peculiar symbolism.

The landmarks of Freemasonry have existed from time immemorial; however, Albert Mackey was the first Mason to collect them all together and explicitly define them for the greater benefit of the fraternity. Here he outlines what the 25 landmarks are, which bind together all Masonic lodges across the globe. These aren't opinions but instead they are the intellectual and philosophical foundations of our organization and something that every Mason should be familiar with and ready to defend.

Brother Mackey outlines a brief history of why we, as Freemasons, consider operative and speculative masonry to be interconnected even though on the surface they don't appear to be. He discusses symbolism being handed down by generations of priests as well as the erection of King Solomon's temple and our role in all of it.

Brother Mackey examines the symbolism of the corner-stone as it relates to operative and, perhaps more importantly, speculative masonry. He explores the corner-stone as a symbol for the spiritual aspect of the mason himself, with attention being paid to the northeast corner of the lodge room and the entered apprentice degree. He also discusses the symbol of a square as well as corn, wine, and oil.

Brother Mackey discusses this rich and elaborate mythology within masonry, the inclusion into our mysteries of which is based off of a single mention in the Book of Kings. The explores the symbolism of advancement from a lower to a higher place, the movement from darkness to light and other such masonic allegories associated with the winding staircase. He also discusses the porch, the number of steps, Pythagoras, and more.

Brother Mackey examines the importance of having a temple within the realm of Freemasonry, with specific attention being paid to the symbolism of King Solomon's temple and the working tools a mason uses when building. He also covers the symbolism behind those tools. He compares the physical temple with the spiritual temple of man, which every mason is attempting to erect. He discusses the trestle-board as well as the rough and perfect ashlars and the ancient mysteries.

Mackey examines the popular belief among scholars of his day that the rites of Freemasonry are remnants of ancient Druids ceremonies, or that at the very least the ceremonies of the two share a common origin, such as the pagan mysteries, travelling Buddhists, or perhaps the Phoenicians. In doing so, he gives an excellent history lesson on who the Druids were and what their initiation ceremonies were like.

Brother Mackey sets out to dispel the notion that George Washington, the first president of the United States of America, was anything but a Freemason. He provides ample documentary evidence to support what now has become a common claim. But Mackey goes beyond simply showing us proof that Washington's masonic initiation took place; he shows us that George was a Mason in his heart.

A collection of four essays by noted Masonic scholar Frank C. Higgins. The first explores the labyrinthine paths of solutions that attempt to define the exact character of the "riddle of the ages" that is known as Freemasonry, as it has survived throughout history, in multiple cultures

Brother Brown gives us a short overview of the life of Freemasonry's most famous and beloved poet. He outlines the poet's masonic history and his love for the fraternity. Brown offers several examples of verse to help showcase how the divine had an overall influence on Robert's life and poetical career.

Our first author utilizes aHe explores the marriage of the intellectual and spiritual fire, as well as the egg as a symbol of fertility and its relationship to the new Mason. Brother Darlington wraps up his esoteric analysis by examining how the Christian resurrection may be seen in the initiations of Royal Arch Masonry.

Harold Voorhis, notable Masonic scholar and former Supreme Magus of the Societas Rosicruciana in Civitatibus Foederatis, explores the notion which was only beginning to gain popularity among the fellow masons of his day, that their fraternity is somehow connected through history to the much more elusive and mystical fraternity, commonly known, most often, as simply the Rosicrucians.

Brother McCurdy briefly explains the origins of Cryptic Masonry, as well as how it relates to the royal arch degrees. He talks about Cryptic Masonry as a modern extension of Ancient Craft Masonry and how it ties in with the blue lodge degrees. Although short, this is a lovely, introspective, and philosophical piece.

Famed masonic and spiritual writer J. D. Buck discusses and examines a lesser-known book called The Great Work: The Constructive Principle of Nature in Individual Life, by John Emmett Richardson. Buck believes that Richardson has uncovered some deeper secrets that relate to the masonic initiations and the lost word, and he wishes to share some of the insight. 

John Sebastian Marlow Ward was a British author who published widely on the subject of Freemasonry. In this handbook, he takes the mason, step-by-step, through the third degree ritual, attempting to highlight lessons, as well as explain the underlying symbolism which was encountered. He covers questions, passwords, the opening, the symbolic journey, secrets learned, the tracing board and many more facets of the masonic raising ritual.