"The purpose of this work is not so much to gratify the curiosity of the uninitiated as to furnish a guide for the neophytes of the Order, by means of which their progress from grade to grade may be facilitated. Every statement in the book is authentic, as every proficient Mason will admit to himself, if not to be public, as he turns over its pages. The non-Masonic reader, as he peruses them, will perhaps be puzzled to imagine why matters of so little real importance to society at large should have been so industriously concealed for centuries, and still more surprised that society should have been so extremely inquisitive about them."-From the Preface.
This is a favorite and classic reference work of Freemasonry, should be found within the library of every Masonic lodge or serious Freemason. It is also recommended by the author for those who are curious about the craft but not members. Serves as a trusted and standard reference work.
Duncan's Masonic Ritual is a superb guide to the historic rituals and practices of the Freemason societies, for the initiation of new members and the ceremonies of the Masonic lodges. First published in 1866, this book arranges the Freemason customs according to the rank of the member they involve. Beginning with the initiate ranking, known as the 'Entered Apprentice', we are told the dialogue which must take place between the newcomer and the existing members. The arrangement of people in the Masonic building, and the various gestures and signals each must give to one another, are shown in detailed diagrams. The tiers of Master each involve new symbolic gestures and rituals, intended to signify the member's depth of understanding and loyalty to the society. The formal operations of a Masonic society require a variety of meetings and orders of business to take place sequentially. These arrangements are accompanied by a range of handshakes, gestures between members, and even a series of tools that must be held by a certain Mason, or handed from one ranking member to another. Since this book is concerned entirely with the ceremonial traditions of Freemasonry, the social and informal aspects of membership, whereby members hold discussions or organize participation in local events, are scarcely mentioned. The notes included in the appendix and at the end of each part discuss the origins, regional variations in the traditions, and related miscellany.
The fraternal society of the Masonic Order, steeped in mystery for over 600 years, is brought to light in a fascinating volume that serves as a guide for neophytes as well as a reference for the initiated. Duncan's Ritual of Freemasonry reveals the spiritual paths taken by inductees as they move through each initiated degree of enlightmentment: Mark Master, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and the Royal Arch. The Freemasons' rituals, arcane symbols and mystical doctrines are also probed, and accurate explanations of gestures, tools and terms are accompanied by more than 100 illustrations and original engravings. The work is a fascinating exploration of the theories and practices of the world's most enduring secret society.
♥♥Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor by Malcolm C. Duncan♥♥ The objects which Freemasonry was founded to subserve are honorable and laudable; nor is it intended in the following pages to disparage the institution or to undervalue its usefulness. It has, at various times and in several countries, incurred the ill-will of political parties and of religious bodies, in consequence of a belief, on their part, that the organization was not so purely benevolent and philanthropic as its members proclaimed it to be. In the State of New York, many years ago, it was supposed, but we think unjustly, to wield a powerful political influence, and to employ it unscrupulously for sinister ends. ♥♥Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor by Malcolm C. Duncan♥♥ The war between Masonry and Anti-Masonry which convulsed the State at that period is still fresh in the remembrance of many a party veteran. The Order, however, has long since recovered from the obloquy then heaped upon it, and is now in a flourishing condition in most parts of the civilized world. ♥♥Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor by Malcolm C. Duncan♥♥ The purpose of this work is not so much to gratify the curiosity of the uninitiated as to furnish a guide for the neophytes of the Order, by means of which their progress from grade to grade may be facilitated. Every statement in the book is authentic, as every proficient Mason will admit to himself, if not to be public, as he turns over its pages. ♥♥Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor by Malcolm C. Duncan♥♥ The non-Masonic reader, as he peruses them, will perhaps be puzzled to imagine why matters of so little real importance to society at large should have been so industriously concealed for centuries, and still more surprised that society should have been so extremely inquisitive about them. "But such," as Old Stapleton says, in 'Jacob Faithful,' "is human nature." ♥♥Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor by Malcolm C. Duncan♥♥ The object of the Order in making a profound mystery of its proceedings is obvious enough. Sea-birds are not more in-variably attracted toward a lighted beacon on a dark night, than men to whatever savors of mystery. Curiosity has had a much greater influence in swelling the ranks of Masonry than philanthropy and brotherly love. The institution, however, is now sufficiently popular to stand upon its own merits, without the aid of clap-trap, so "via the mantle that shadowed Borgia." ♥♥Duncan’s Masonic Ritual and Monitor by Malcolm C. Duncan♥♥
