The Meaning of Masonry

The papers here collected have been written with a view to promoting the deeper understanding of the meaning of Masonry; to providing the explanation of it that one constantly hears called for. The meaning of Masonry, however, is a subject usually left entirely unexpounded and that accordingly remains largely unrealized by its members save such few as make it their private study. It seems taken for granted that reception into the Order will automatically be accompanied by an ability to appreciate forthwith and at its full value all that one there finds. The contrary is the case, for Masonry is a veiled and cryptic expression of the difficult science of spiritual life, and the understanding of it calls for special and informed guidance on the one hand, and on the other a genuine and earnest desire for knowledge on the part of those seeking to be instructed. Contents: The Position and Possibilities of the Masonic Order; Deeper Symbolism of Freemasonry; Masonry as a Philosophy; Further Notes on Craft Symbolism; The Form of the Lodge; Holy Royal Arch of Jerusalem; Freemasonry in Relation to the Ancient Mysteries.