"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.
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 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.
Explained and interpreted by copious notes and numerous engravings. Duncan's Masonic Ritual and Monitor will be a cherished possession of any Mason who receives it. Retaining all the traditional charm of McKay's Standard Edition, this volume includes both the Guide to the Three Symbolic Degrees of the Ancient York Rite and to the degree of Mark Master, Past Master, Most Excellent Master, and the Royal Arch, as written by Malcolm C. Duncan.
Learn the Ritual 'Secret Weapons'... In "Learning Masonic Ritual - The Simple, Systematic and Successful Way to Master the Work", author Rick Smith has combined the Secret Weapons of Great Ritualists into a structured process that anyone can follow. Whether you're new to Freemasonry and looking for a jump-start, or you've tried and failed to learn Ritual in the past, this Three-Stage System will show you how to succeed. Most people are capable of learning and performing Ritual, but many simply haven't found the best approach. This book lays out proven techniques and methods that you can integrate into your everyday life. Eliminate the Common Mistakes... The most common mistakes are explained and removed, you are taught how to plan properly, and introduced to Tips and Tricks used by successful Ritualists to make it look easy. Learning Masonic Ritual equips you with a Complete Coaching System, emphasising Competence, Confidence and Sincerity, to achieve your goals in record time. You could spend years developing and learning these techniques by yourself, or you could master the Secret Weapons in a weekend and vastly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of Freemasonry by becoming an active participant in the Ritual of your Lodge. This version is based on English Craft Ritual; however the techniques and methods are equally valid for any Masonic Ritual system. Here are some of the Kindle Reviewers' comments; "Just finished reading this book and was enthralled by the explanation for time keeping and method of learning. I'm far from the best for remembering long passages so this will help and I will put it to the test. I've just passed to 2nd degree & will start on the 1st degree charge just so I know it. As you can imagine it's a fairly long piece and when you're standing there it's a bit daunting. Thank you for writing this and now I can use this method for future reference". - Mr G. 28 July 2013 "I wish this was available when I first joined the Craft! Essential guidance for both the new Freemason who is daunted by the work that may lie ahead, but also the seasoned ritualist whose advancing years have made it more difficult to recall and retain like he used to! Also a useful tool for Lodge Mentors to have in their armoury to encourage the less experienced mason to progress" - Jim Tull, 28th June 2013 "This book was written mostly for brothers working under the Grand Lodge of England, so the terms used for the various parts of the work, as well as some of the officers' titles can be confusing to those of us in the southern U.S., but Brother Smith still delivers a good lecture on both the joys and importance of the ritual, as well as an effective means to help learn and polish your parts. My mentor took me by a slightly different path, but I still recognized some of the things they made me do; this book offered more light on why to do it that way, and some options to improve the process. An excellent essay, and we'll worth the modest price. I'm sure these methods can be applied to all types of learning. Give it a try!" - Thomas E Ezell, July 2nd 2013 Click on Look Inside to read the first chapter FREE
