It has been suggested that we create a recommended reading list for new Masons. I agree, it is a superb idea, and there is a great deal of wisdom and experience among those who are a part of Emeth, so I think that this is the perfect place to create it.
What books do you recommend for someone considering Masonry?
What books do you recommend for an Entered Apprentice?
What books do you recommend for a Fellow Craft?
What books do you recommend for the new Master Mason?
What books do you recommend for the experienced Mason?
Once we have created our list, I’ll figure out how to find it a good permanent home so that everyone can access it easily anytime.
considering masnry: freemasons for dummies, and/or complete idiots guide to freemasonry. Both cover similar ground.
For EAs through new MMs, I would concentrate on learning the posting lectures, and ask questions to their mentor/study group about topics they are not clear on. Follow the new candidates education program with their mentor/coach. The proving up for all degrees should be in open lodge.
Once a MM has provided his proficiency, the next thing they should start reading is the WMC (if they haven't already) and (if they plan on taking a chair) the lodge officers handbook. Also read and understand the bylaws and practices/procedures of their home lodge. I have found that this is an often neglected part of a new MMs education.
Then, I think it's mandatory to read observing the craft by Andrew Hammer. I find this book to be inspiring in pointing out how masonry should be, and often is not. I may not agree with everything in it, and a lot of the suggestions would take a generational shift to happen, but I'd like to see all lodges starting to adopt some of it's principles and points.
There are a number of books that are free (I believe) for anyone owning a kindle. These include: The symbolism of Freemasonry by Mackey, The Builders, by Joseph Newton, and Masonic Monitor by George Thornburgh.
Other newer books to read would be Solomon's Builders by Chris Hodapp, and Measured Expectations by Michael Poll. The last one outlines a lot of the same issues as Observing the Craft, I think the author mentions OTC as part of his inspiration for writing his own book.
There are thousands of books to read, hard to pick out a handful.
A Pilgrim's Path by John J. Robinson. It is a truly delightful introduction to Freemasonry. Available at bookstores.
For an EA:
Any of the large Masonic 'encyclopedias.' In order to help him learn what terms he is unfamiliar with mean, or at least mean to the author. It will help get him pointed in the right direction. It will also give him an indication as to the depth and scope of Freemasonry down through the centuries. Mackey's is best IMHO. A fine quality used copy is extremely expensive, but it is available online for free, and I see copies on shelves in many Lodges.
For a FC:
Any and all editions of Heredom published by the Scottish Rite Research Society. In my view it is really important for young Masons to realize that Masonic 'histories' fit into three very broad categories. Fantasy, as exemplified by Anderson's Constitutions, Romantic like many of Pike's writings, and authentic. IMHO Heredom is the very best example of the authentic school that is currently being published. These are available through the Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction.
For a new MM:
Observing the Craft, and the online publication Laudable Pursuit which is located at:
Observing the Craft is available online from the author.
For the seasoned MM:
Wherever his personal interests take him. My current favorite, just in case anyone is interested:
Masonic Rivalries And Literary Politics by Marsha Keith Schuchard. It is available via Amazon.
I had difficulty only selecting a single book for each category, as so many truly wonderful books are available. But, currently I think this is my 'best of the best' list.
considering masnry: freemasons for dummies, and/or complete idiots guide to freemasonry. Both cover similar ground.
For EAs through new MMs, I would concentrate on learning the posting lectures, and ask questions to their mentor/study group about topics they are not clear on. Follow the new candidates education program with their mentor/coach. The proving up for all degrees should be in open lodge.
Once a MM has provided his proficiency, the next thing they should start reading is the WMC (if they haven't already) and (if they plan on taking a chair) the lodge officers handbook. Also read and understand the bylaws and practices/procedures of their home lodge. I have found that this is an often neglected part of a new MMs education.
Then, I think it's mandatory to read observing the craft by Andrew Hammer. I find this book to be inspiring in pointing out how masonry should be, and often is not. I may not agree with everything in it, and a lot of the suggestions would take a generational shift to happen, but I'd like to see all lodges starting to adopt some of it's principles and points.
There are a number of books that are free (I believe) for anyone owning a kindle. These include: The symbolism of Freemasonry by Mackey, The Builders, by Joseph Newton, and Masonic Monitor by George Thornburgh.
Other newer books to read would be Solomon's Builders by Chris Hodapp, and Measured Expectations by Michael Poll. The last one outlines a lot of the same issues as Observing the Craft, I think the author mentions OTC as part of his inspiration for writing his own book.
There are thousands of books to read, hard to pick out a handful.
I would recommend "The Craft and Its Symbols" by Allen Roberts for the Master Mason.
I really like all of the following:
For someone considering Masonry:
A Pilgrim's Path by John J. Robinson. It is a truly delightful introduction to Freemasonry. Available at bookstores.
For an EA:
Any of the large Masonic 'encyclopedias.' In order to help him learn what terms he is unfamiliar with mean, or at least mean to the author. It will help get him pointed in the right direction. It will also give him an indication as to the depth and scope of Freemasonry down through the centuries. Mackey's is best IMHO. A fine quality used copy is extremely expensive, but it is available online for free, and I see copies on shelves in many Lodges.
For a FC:
Any and all editions of Heredom published by the Scottish Rite Research Society. In my view it is really important for young Masons to realize that Masonic 'histories' fit into three very broad categories. Fantasy, as exemplified by Anderson's Constitutions, Romantic like many of Pike's writings, and authentic. IMHO Heredom is the very best example of the authentic school that is currently being published. These are available through the Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction.
For a new MM:
Observing the Craft, and the online publication Laudable Pursuit which is located at:
http://www.knightsofthenorth.com/documents/LaudablePursuitFinal.pdf
Observing the Craft is available online from the author.
For the seasoned MM:
Wherever his personal interests take him. My current favorite, just in case anyone is interested:
Masonic Rivalries And Literary Politics by Marsha Keith Schuchard. It is available via Amazon.
I had difficulty only selecting a single book for each category, as so many truly wonderful books are available. But, currently I think this is my 'best of the best' list.
Considering Candidate: The Man Who Would be King short story by Rudyard
Kipling. The Mother Lodge poem by Rudyard Kipling.
Entered Apprentice: The Timaeus by Plato.
Fellowcraft: 1001 Arabian Nights, Song of Solomon.
New Master: Stellar Theology and Masonic Astronomy by Robert Hewitt Brown.
Experienced Mason: Hamlet's Mill by Santilana and von dechand
The reading list has been created. Find it at:
https://write.as/cmbailey/the-emeth-recommended-reading-list
It is linked on the front page of Emeth.
Please continue to recommend books, I'll get them added to the list. Also, any feedback on any of the books listed will be appreciated.
For the man running for an officer position. "A traditional observance lodge" by Cliff Porter