“…Masonic Education has regrettably been reduced to teaching protocol, traditions, and catechism while ignoring the esoteric essence of the ritual. Esoteric, from the Latin word esotero originally esoterikos in Greek, simply means secret within or hidden within. Freemasonry’s essence is esoteric and is universally defined as a peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory, and illustrated by symbols designed to help a person improve. The primary purpose of Masonic Education should therefore be to assist initiates in delving deeper into the allegories and symbols at the core of Freemasonry’s rituals. In doing so, they are encouraged to each draw their own designs to become ‘a better person,’ i.e., a free builder.”
- MW Akram R. Elias, Past Grand Master, F&AM of Washington D.C.
If we believe, as MW Elias does, that esoteric education is vital, how can we encourage those Lodges that have always neglected esoteric education to embrace it?
How can we overcome the fears about it that lead to resistance?
How do we convince, or effectively ignore, those voices that claim there is absolutely nothing under the surface of Masonic ritual? Who refuse to admit that the veils exist?
Man, I don't know the answer to this, but I do think it's vital to the future of Masonry. This is what has to be figured out. Carl Jung's work, and some of Joseph Campbell's as well would probably be illustrative and helpful. Looking also to the Mystics might be informative.
“How can we encourage those Lodges that have always neglected esoteric education to embrace it?”
“How can we overcome the fears about it that lead to resistance?”
“How do we convince, or effectively ignore, those voices that claim there is absolutely nothing under the surface of Masonic ritual? Who refuse to admit that the veils exist?”
As I analyze these questions, I think that they really boil down to the last question. IF we can move our brethren to accept that “the veil exists”, that is equivalent to convincing them the room is on fire. You will not have to tell them what they need to do once they understand that fact.
OK, how do we get there? The old saying is, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink” applies here. If we are struggling with men believing there is a veil, then we left the west gate unattended, and this will be a hard slog.
My experience is that one or two men, who authentically embrace the esoteric can move a Lodge. Those people already exist either actively in every Lodge, or at least are on the rosters of every Lodge. What they need is training in how to talk about the esoteric and how to teach it. They also will need fellowship with other brethren who are teaching in our Lodges, a place to share experiences and successes and to ask for help. In short, we would need a ‘esoteric teacher’s program’. At this point I think the place that should come from is probably the Scottish Rite, but the Grand Lodge could do it quite easily.
The other thing we need is Grand Lodge leadership. It would be very helpful if the GM made space for this work, and especially if we could create a new appointed GL position, Grand Lodge Esotericist. This position would put the subject front and center, he could speak globally about the esoteric work, while trained brethren in Lodges could speak to it specifically. After all, if we believe that the esoteric work is key to our survival should it not have a designated leader?
So, I think if we do those things we would have answered all three questions.
Great Question. I would propose to encourage those lodges, whom are not aware of Freemasons esoteric knowledge, to vote on it becoming more of its focus. Some brothers are quite happy with the socializing aspect or its charitable functions. There first has to be a desire for inner knowledge, and like we know, the initiates must knock on the door for it to be opened. It would not be up to any other person to make someone understand the inner meaning of freemasonry. In most cases, esoteric knowledge is not available like ordering food on a menu. It has to be sought after and the veils of the mind need to be lifted.
I just so happen to be reading on subjects closely related to becoming a better person, as in a ‘free builder’ as mentioned in MW Elias’ quote. In ancient Greek, the word used for a builder is “tekton” which is more clearly a term given for an artisan/craftsman. The word which was frequently used for a carpenter or a stone mason. Tekton is also a word to describe Jesus’ vocation, who was the Grand Archetekton. As we know, he freely spoke in allegories and parables. Why? It is said, Christ could not address his followers as spiritual beings, but worldly- as infants. In 1 Corinthians 3:2, states: I (Jesus) had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. And you are still not ready for it. In the same way, I feel, is reflective also in teaching mysticism/esoteric subjects to many.
And just for an added part of interest, a tekton/ builder is also a connected terminology to freemasonry. In the Ancient Egyptian mystery schools, a "free-mason" was called "Phree-Messen", the Egyptian word for Child of Light. Light emphasis something that dispenses darkness, as knowledge dispenses ignorance. A particular form of (inner) knowledge, is found in the Greek word Gnosis. The study of Gnosis is concerned with a very special form of knowledge. When I refer to the word "Gnosis" what its referring to is not the kind of knowledge that you can read, or that you can acquire from a book or a lecture, but instead this knowledge refers to something that one acquires by one's own experience. It is important for this definition of Gnosis to be maintained in a clear way within the mind of the student, for without it, the study of the doctrine of Gnosis can quickly become mere dogma or belief; it can remain as a theory.
In the Mysteries of Magic by Eliphas Levi and interpreted by Arthur Edward Waite, it is written; “The “G” which Freemasons place in the center of the Burning Star signifies Gnosis and Generation, the two sacred words of the ancient Kabbalah. It also signifies Grand Architect, for the Pentagram, from whatever side it may be looked at, always represents an A. This was reconfirmed by Albert Pike, in his book, “Liturgy of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry: IV to XIV.”
Why does it have to be either or? No two Masons travel the same path to get to that final resting place. The way that I see it is that the Lodge should be like a very well equipped garage capable of meeting the needs of each traveler along his journey. Just as you cannot tune up a high speed race car like you would an old Model A, the same is true about a Mason's journey. Each of us has our own needs and adjustments to become the better man that lies within each of us. To some the esoteric education fine tunes the individual like a race car. Others probably like myself prefer the non esoteric tune up like a Model A. Everyone's needs are different. A possible solution would be to provide mentorship training where the coach or mentor of a new Mason can assess which pathway would be best tailored to that individual and make there journey easier.
Did you ever wonder why there is so much repetition in our ritual? Why do we listen again and again to the descriptions of the officers and their station's duties? Why is it all so formalized?
Repetition increases learning. Back when *nothing* was written, when there were no ciphers, this repetition helped newer members learn what the stations in the lodge were, who did what, and why. As has already been pointed out, there is more to it than simply parroting words. We already know what the various officers do, so why say it over and over, and what's behind the ritual?
I think the essence of the Masonry, the heart of our Craft is to be found in the Closing Charge. "Brethren, we are now about to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and virtue, to mingle again with the outer world." And so on. It is a gentle reminder that we are to carry with us the lessons we are taught in lodge. "Do good unto all."
I’ve yet to experience what I would consider a real esoteric educational presentation in lodge. Most of what I’ve seen or heard has been trite superficial education, not delving into deeper discourse. I’ve gotten better discussion here on emeth.
The most common complaint I’ve heard is that it would make the meeting too long. And that is just sad. They would rather spend fifteen minutes talking about bills than something educational.
I am glad to see that there seems to be so much interest in a formalized program of esoteric instruction for our Masons.
The reason I asked the questions I did is because I very recently learned that the Grand Lodge of North Carolina has created such a program, and is finding success with it. I'm reading about what they did, and how they did it now, but it certainly seems like something that could be implemented by our various Grand Lodges, following their lead.
For those who are interested, the book put out about it is:
"A Path To Providence"
"The Creation Of The Middle Chamber Program"
A brief description is:
"In 2017 the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina authorized a new educational program to teach the esoteric aspects of its Masonic ritual. This progressive and proactive endeavor focused on the Craft's hidden lessons that were long neglected at the local and jurisdictional levels and was the first, in-person Grand Lodge-sanctioned esoteric program offered in America."
The book was published in 2021 by the Laudable Pursuit Press.
Man, I don't know the answer to this, but I do think it's vital to the future of Masonry. This is what has to be figured out. Carl Jung's work, and some of Joseph Campbell's as well would probably be illustrative and helpful. Looking also to the Mystics might be informative.
So, there are three questions here;
“How can we encourage those Lodges that have always neglected esoteric education to embrace it?”
“How can we overcome the fears about it that lead to resistance?”
“How do we convince, or effectively ignore, those voices that claim there is absolutely nothing under the surface of Masonic ritual? Who refuse to admit that the veils exist?”
As I analyze these questions, I think that they really boil down to the last question. IF we can move our brethren to accept that “the veil exists”, that is equivalent to convincing them the room is on fire. You will not have to tell them what they need to do once they understand that fact.
OK, how do we get there? The old saying is, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink” applies here. If we are struggling with men believing there is a veil, then we left the west gate unattended, and this will be a hard slog.
My experience is that one or two men, who authentically embrace the esoteric can move a Lodge. Those people already exist either actively in every Lodge, or at least are on the rosters of every Lodge. What they need is training in how to talk about the esoteric and how to teach it. They also will need fellowship with other brethren who are teaching in our Lodges, a place to share experiences and successes and to ask for help. In short, we would need a ‘esoteric teacher’s program’. At this point I think the place that should come from is probably the Scottish Rite, but the Grand Lodge could do it quite easily.
The other thing we need is Grand Lodge leadership. It would be very helpful if the GM made space for this work, and especially if we could create a new appointed GL position, Grand Lodge Esotericist. This position would put the subject front and center, he could speak globally about the esoteric work, while trained brethren in Lodges could speak to it specifically. After all, if we believe that the esoteric work is key to our survival should it not have a designated leader?
So, I think if we do those things we would have answered all three questions.
Great Question. I would propose to encourage those lodges, whom are not aware of Freemasons esoteric knowledge, to vote on it becoming more of its focus. Some brothers are quite happy with the socializing aspect or its charitable functions. There first has to be a desire for inner knowledge, and like we know, the initiates must knock on the door for it to be opened. It would not be up to any other person to make someone understand the inner meaning of freemasonry. In most cases, esoteric knowledge is not available like ordering food on a menu. It has to be sought after and the veils of the mind need to be lifted.
I just so happen to be reading on subjects closely related to becoming a better person, as in a ‘free builder’ as mentioned in MW Elias’ quote. In ancient Greek, the word used for a builder is “tekton” which is more clearly a term given for an artisan/craftsman. The word which was frequently used for a carpenter or a stone mason. Tekton is also a word to describe Jesus’ vocation, who was the Grand Archetekton. As we know, he freely spoke in allegories and parables. Why? It is said, Christ could not address his followers as spiritual beings, but worldly- as infants. In 1 Corinthians 3:2, states: I (Jesus) had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. And you are still not ready for it. In the same way, I feel, is reflective also in teaching mysticism/esoteric subjects to many.
And just for an added part of interest, a tekton/ builder is also a connected terminology to freemasonry. In the Ancient Egyptian mystery schools, a "free-mason" was called "Phree-Messen", the Egyptian word for Child of Light. Light emphasis something that dispenses darkness, as knowledge dispenses ignorance. A particular form of (inner) knowledge, is found in the Greek word Gnosis. The study of Gnosis is concerned with a very special form of knowledge. When I refer to the word "Gnosis" what its referring to is not the kind of knowledge that you can read, or that you can acquire from a book or a lecture, but instead this knowledge refers to something that one acquires by one's own experience. It is important for this definition of Gnosis to be maintained in a clear way within the mind of the student, for without it, the study of the doctrine of Gnosis can quickly become mere dogma or belief; it can remain as a theory.
In the Mysteries of Magic by Eliphas Levi and interpreted by Arthur Edward Waite, it is written; “The “G” which Freemasons place in the center of the Burning Star signifies Gnosis and Generation, the two sacred words of the ancient Kabbalah. It also signifies Grand Architect, for the Pentagram, from whatever side it may be looked at, always represents an A. This was reconfirmed by Albert Pike, in his book, “Liturgy of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry: IV to XIV.”
Why does it have to be either or? No two Masons travel the same path to get to that final resting place. The way that I see it is that the Lodge should be like a very well equipped garage capable of meeting the needs of each traveler along his journey. Just as you cannot tune up a high speed race car like you would an old Model A, the same is true about a Mason's journey. Each of us has our own needs and adjustments to become the better man that lies within each of us. To some the esoteric education fine tunes the individual like a race car. Others probably like myself prefer the non esoteric tune up like a Model A. Everyone's needs are different. A possible solution would be to provide mentorship training where the coach or mentor of a new Mason can assess which pathway would be best tailored to that individual and make there journey easier.
Did you ever wonder why there is so much repetition in our ritual? Why do we listen again and again to the descriptions of the officers and their station's duties? Why is it all so formalized?
Repetition increases learning. Back when *nothing* was written, when there were no ciphers, this repetition helped newer members learn what the stations in the lodge were, who did what, and why. As has already been pointed out, there is more to it than simply parroting words. We already know what the various officers do, so why say it over and over, and what's behind the ritual?
I think the essence of the Masonry, the heart of our Craft is to be found in the Closing Charge. "Brethren, we are now about to quit this sacred retreat of friendship and virtue, to mingle again with the outer world." And so on. It is a gentle reminder that we are to carry with us the lessons we are taught in lodge. "Do good unto all."
We can always learn more. I know I can.
Just my thoughts...
I’ve yet to experience what I would consider a real esoteric educational presentation in lodge. Most of what I’ve seen or heard has been trite superficial education, not delving into deeper discourse. I’ve gotten better discussion here on emeth.
The most common complaint I’ve heard is that it would make the meeting too long. And that is just sad. They would rather spend fifteen minutes talking about bills than something educational.
I am glad to see that there seems to be so much interest in a formalized program of esoteric instruction for our Masons.
The reason I asked the questions I did is because I very recently learned that the Grand Lodge of North Carolina has created such a program, and is finding success with it. I'm reading about what they did, and how they did it now, but it certainly seems like something that could be implemented by our various Grand Lodges, following their lead.
For those who are interested, the book put out about it is:
"A Path To Providence"
"The Creation Of The Middle Chamber Program"
A brief description is:
"In 2017 the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina authorized a new educational program to teach the esoteric aspects of its Masonic ritual. This progressive and proactive endeavor focused on the Craft's hidden lessons that were long neglected at the local and jurisdictional levels and was the first, in-person Grand Lodge-sanctioned esoteric program offered in America."
The book was published in 2021 by the Laudable Pursuit Press.
http://www.thelaudablepursuit.com/articles/2021/11/29/introducing-a-path-to-providence