Upvote
0
Starting today August 7th, 2024, in order to post in the Married Couples, Courting Couples, or Singles forums, you will not be allowed to post if you have your Marital status designated as private. Announcements will be made in the respective forums as well but please note that if yours is currently listed as Private, you will need to submit a ticket in the Support Area to have yours changed.
Georgia:
The Grand Lodges of the United States use the Holy Bible on their Altars. In other jurisdictions, the candidate may have his own sacred book substituted for the Bible. In some Lodges in other countries, the Altars of Masonry have more that one Book on them, and the candidate may choose the one on which he is to be obligated. No Lodge in California may stand officially open, unless the Holy Bible is opened upon its Altar with the Square and Compass displayed thereon. The open Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings, because it is the rule and guide of our faith and is a symbol of man's acknowledgment of his relation to Deity.
Maine:
THIRD SECTION. A LODGE
Is a certain number of Masons duly assembled, having the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, with a charter or warrant empowering them to work. (Blue Book, part I)
I also present to you the three Great Lights in Masonry: the Holy Bible Square and Compasses.. The Bible, the Great Light in Masonry will guide you to all truth, will direct your paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Blue Book, Part I)
LODGE ROOM BEHAVIOR
1. No one should pass between the East and the Altar while the Bible is open.
a. Master relies on the Great Light (Holy Bible) to rule and govern his Lodge. Line of vision should never be broken. (District Education Representative's Manual)
LODGE ROOM BEHAVIOR
[FONT=JNGMLD+Arial]1. No one should pass between the East and the Altar. [/FONT]
[FONT=JNGMLD+Arial]a. Master relies on the Great Light (Holy Bible) to rule and govern his Lodge. Line of vision should never be broken. [/FONT]
[FONT=JNGMLD+Arial]b. Exception - during Degree work Officers may pass this way in a clockwise motion while conducting candidate. (District Deputy Manual)[/FONT]
A Bible is necessary in Blue Lodges in Maine. The Bible was adopted in its entirety as the Great Light in Masonry. [1858, p. 394; 1856, p. 125] (Constitution, GL of Maine 2010)
SEAL OF.
The form, a circle, surrounded by the words "Incorporated by the State, June 16, consecrated June 25, A.L 5820." Within this circle the words
"GRAND LODGE OF MAINE", upholding on its three pillars the Bible, Square and Compasses, supported on the right by a Scythe, and on the left by an Anchor (part of the arms of the state), having within the Compasses, "REGIT" (the Bible rules and directs us) irradiated by the Polar Star (the emblem of Maine), and having above the whole the All-Seeing Eye. (Constitution, GL of Maine 2010)
My Brother, on being brought to Light in Freemasonry, you first behold the Three Great Lights, by aid of the representatives of the Three Lesser. The Three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, and are thus explained: The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide for our faith and practice, the Square to square our actions, and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially the Brethren.
(Bible Lecture) I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. Howsoever men differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life.
Freemasonry therefore opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding sectarian discussion within its Lodgerooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all good men by the hand, and leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find, and as he there shall find it.
If from our sacred altars the atheist, the infidel, the irreligious man, or the libertine should ever be able to wrest this Book of Sacred Laws, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light in Masonry - that Light which has for centuries been the rule and guide of Freemasons - then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of Free and Accepted Masons; but so long as that Sacred Light shines upon our altars, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsmen by the golden rays of truth, so long and no longer can Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, that Book of sacred and immutable law as you would guard your very life. Defend it as you would the flag of your country. Live according to its divine teachings, with its everlasting assurance of a blessed immortality. (EA ritual, Nevada, 1986)
You are taught, by the aid of impressive symbols, to discharge with propriety the duties that devolve upon you as a man and Mason. The word Lodge is analogous to that of church, referring not so much to the place of meeting as to the persons assembled. A lodge may therefore at this time be defined as a certain number of Free and Accepted Masons, duly assembled, furnished with the Holy Bible, the Square and the Compasses, together with a Charter, or Dispensation, from some Grand Body of competent jurisdiction empowering it to work.
The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses have been partially explained to you; the Charter has not. This is the one in possession of this Lodge. The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Nevada was pleased to grant this Charter to __________ Lodge No. ___. It empowers us to confer the three degrees of Masonry, which powers we are this evening partially exercising. It is signed by the Grand Officers, with the seal of the Grand Lodge attached, and contains all the necessary instructions for retaining the same. (EA ritual, Nevada, 1986)
Every regular and well governed Lodge is furnished with the Holy Bible, the Square, and the Compasses, together with a Charter or Dispensation. The Holy Bible is dedicated to the service of God, because it is the inestimable gift of God to man, and on it we obligate our newly made Brethren. (EA ritual, Nevada, 1986)
Q. What are the Three Great Lights in Masonry?
A. The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses
Q. How are they explained?
A. The Holy Bible is given us a the rule and guide for our faith and practice, the Square to square our actions and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially the Brethren. (EA ritual, Nevada, 1986)
The beginning of the second part of the Entered Apprentice lecture defines a Lodge as being a constitutional number of Masons, duly assembled with the Holy Bible, square and compasses and a charter or warrant empowering them to work. (EA Degree, Wisconsin)
The Furniture of a Lodge is the three Great Lights in Masonry: the Holy Bible, the Square and the Compasses. The Bible is dedicated to God, the square to the Master and the compasses to the Craft. (EA Degree, Wisconsin)
The Volume of the Sacred Law or Holy Bible is one of the Three Great Lights in Freemasonry and is an indispensable part of the furniture of the lodge. If the candidate is of a religion not represented by the Holy Bible, for example, Hinduism, he may take his obligation upon the writings sacred to his religion. This is to ensure that his obligation will be binding upon his conscience. (EA Degree, Wisconsin)
For those who have tried to make statements like the above appear generic, even though it specifically references Holy Bible--better guess again, because in the same EA degree material, there is a Q & A section at the end, where we find:
21. Name the Three Great Lights in Masonry. The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. (EA Degree, Wisconsin)
That makes it eminently clear that when a statement says "the Volume of the Sacred Law or Holy Bible," it is NOT making a generic reference, it is defining the Holy Bible as the SPECIFIC "VSL."
The central piece of furniture in the Lodge is the Altar. Upon it rest the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, the Three Great Lights of Masonry. (North Dakota, Entered Apprentice, p. 6)
The Grand Lodges of the United States use the Holy Bible on their altars. Other countries substitute their own sacred book for the Bible.
A candidate, if he is not a Christian, may take his obligation upon the Volume of Sacred Law he considers representative of his Faith.
No lodge in this country may stand officially open unless the Holy Bible is opened upon its altar with the Square and Compasses displayed thereon, indicating the Degree in which the Lodge is working.
The open Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings, because it is the rule and guide of our faith. (North Dakota, EA material, p. 7)
-Being Masons, we might expect that the symbolism of stones would be important. The importance of stone symbolism is pervasive in religious thought. We can find references connecting stones with the gods back to the remotest times. It has been considered by some religious historians as being an archetypal image representing absolute reality. Stones possess the qualities of stability, solidity, and everlastingness which is also qualities attributed to the gods. There are numerous references to stones throughout the Bible which allude to a link between the stone, the sacred, and spirituality. In Isaiah 28:16 we read: Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: ... In Psalm 118: 22 we find: The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. Also, in Revelation 2:17 we read: To him that overcomes will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that received it. We also read (Genesis 28:11) that when Jacob had his vision of the angels and the ladder reaching to heaven; he used a stone as a pillow. After he awoke: Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillow and set it up for a pillar and poured oil upon the top of it. And he called the name of that place Beth-El (Gods House). (GL of Ohio, EA Basic Education Course, 2008)
The Three Great Lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. The Volume of the Sacred Law (no matter what religion) is an indispensable part of a Lodge. The Grand Lodges of the United States use the Holy Bible as the V.S.L. on their Altars. In our jurisdiction, a Candidate should always have his own sacred book present on the Altar with the Bible during his degree ceremonies. In Lodges in other countries, other sacred texts are placed on the Altar in place of the Holy Bible. The open Bible or Holy Book signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings because it is the rule and guide of our faith and is a symbol of mans acknowledgment of his relation to Deity. (GL of Ohio, Masonic Education Course, Entered Apprentice)
THE LIGHTS OF MASONRY
Upon the Altar you found the Three Great Lights of Masonry:
The Volume of Sacred Law,
The Square, and
The Compasses
The Volume of Sacred Law in a given lodge is that of the faith which predominates among the members of that lodge. In most U.S. lodges, you will find the Holy Bible on the Altar. The Square is to remind us to square our actions, and the compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds with all mankind. (GL of Ohio, Entered Apprentice Degree, 2005)
The Holy Bible, or the Volume of the Sacred Law, is open during all official meetings of a Lodge to indicate that its teachings are the rule and guide of Faith, by the Light of which we must ever guide our conduct. (Intender's Handbook, GL of Michigan)
The Volume of the Sacred Law is an indispensable part of the furniture of the Lodge. In our jurisdiction, it is the Bible, but in some countries any candidate not a Christian may have substituted for it any other volume he considers sacred, e.g., the Old Testament, Koran, Vedas, or the Laws of Confucius. (Intender's Handbook, GL of Michigan)
The Great Lights are the Holy Bible, the Square, and the Compasses .
As a Great Light, the Holy Bible represents the will of God as man understands it; the Square is the physical life of man under his human conditions; the Compasses signify the moral and spiritual life. (The Working Tools, April 2007)
The Three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, and are thus explained: The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide for our faith and practice, the Square to square our actions, and the Compasses circumscribe our desires and keep our passions in due bound with all mankind, especially the Brethren.
(Bible Lecture)
I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. Howsoever men differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry therefore opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding sectarian discussion within its Lodgerooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all good men by the hand, and leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find, and as he there shall find it.
If from our sacred altars the atheist, the infidel, the irreligious man, or the libertine should ever be able to wrest this Book of Sacred Laws, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light in Masonry that Light which has for centuries been the rule and guide of Freemasons then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of Free and Accepted Masons; but so long as that Sacred Light shines upon our altars, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsmen by the golden rays of truth, so long and no longer can Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, that Book of sacred and immutable law as you would guard your very life. Defend it as you would the flag of your country. Live according to its divine teachings, with its everlasting assurance of a blessed immortality. (Source unknown--the link is Freemasonry: Entered Apprentice Degree – Excommunicate.Net
One of the Three Great Lights in Freemasonry is the Volume of the Sacred Law or Holy Bible. It is an indispensable part of the furniture of the lodge. If the candidate is of a religion not represented by the Holy Bible, for example, Hinduism, he may take his obligation upon the writings he considers sacred to his religion. This is to ensure that his obligation will be binding upon his conscience. No Lodge in this country may stand officially open unless the Holy Bible is opened upon its Altar with the Square and Compasses displayed thereon, indicating the Degree in which the Lodge is working.
The open Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings, because it is the rule and guide for our faith. (GL of Arizona, Entered Apprentice)
The Great Lights are the Holy Bible, the Square, and the Compasses. As a Great Light, the Holy Bible represents the will of God, as man understands it; the Square is the physical life of man under his human conditions; the Compasses signify the moral and spiritual life. If a man acts in obedience to the will of God, according to the dictates of his conscience, he will be living in the illumination of the Great Lights and cannot go astray. (Arkansas, Entered Apprentice)
The Holy Bible is the most important source of knowledge for all human kind. Whether your belief is rooted in Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, or other, Freemasonry welcomes and judges no man on the basis of his religion. As an Entered Apprentice, you will learn the importance of this great book and the manner in which it should guide you. (Hillsborough Lodge, Tampa, FL)
And lastly the Three Great Lights were explained to you; The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, with these and with your working tools you should never err in making the correct decision and finding your own proper rule of life. (GL of NY, EA degree)
-The Three Great Lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compass. The Volume of the Sacred Law (no matter what religion) is an indispensable part of a Lodge. The Grand Lodges of the United States use the Holy Bible as the V.S.L. on their Altars. In our jurisdiction, a candidate may request to have his own sacred book present on the Altar with the Bible during his degree ceremonies. In Lodges in other countries, other sacred texts are placed on the Altar in place of the Holy Bible, but no Lodge in California may stand officially open, unless the Holy Bible is opened upon its Altar with the Square and Compass displayed thereon. The open Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings because it is the rule and guide of our faith and is a symbol of mans acknowledgment of his relation to Deity. (GL of NY, by permission of California, EA degree)
Most holy and glorious Lord God, the giver of all good gifts and graces: Thou hast promised that, where two or three are gathered together in thy name, thou wilt be in the midst of them, and bless them. (Prayer at opening, GL of Washington, Freemason's Guide to the Symbolic Degrees, p. 9; first highlight is from James 1, the second is from Matt. 18)
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together In unity I It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aarons beard; that went down to the skirts of his garments: As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.Psalm cxxxiii. (p. 17)
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be Light: and there was Light. (Genesis 1:1-3)
The Holy Bible is given to us as the rule and guide of our faith, (p. 17)
A Lodge is an assemblage of Masons duly congregated, having the Holy Bibie, Square and Compasses, and a Charter or Dispensation auihorizlng them to work. (p. 23)
The covering of a lodge is no less than the cloudy canopy or starry decked heaven, where all good Masons hope at last to arrive, by the aid of that theological ladder which Jacob in his vision saw ascending from earth to heaven, the three principal rounds of which are denominated Faith, Hope, and Charity,and which admonish us to have faith in God, hope of immortality, and charity for all mankind. The greatest of these is Charity; for our Faith may be lost in sight; Hope ends in fruition; but Charity extends beyond the grave, through the boundless realms of eternity. (p. 27)
The furniture of a Lodge consists of the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.
The Holy Bible is dedicated to God, because it is the inestimable gift of God to man. (p. 28)
The Mosaic Pavement is emblematical of human life, checkered with good and evil; the beautiful border, which surrounds it, of those blessings and comforts which surround us, and which we hope to obtain by a reliance on Divine Providence, which is hieroglyphically represented by the Blazing Star in the center. (p. 29)
A Lodge Is situated due east and west, because after Moses, pursued by Pharaoh and his hosts, had safely conducted the Children of Israel through the Red Sea, he erected, by Divine command, a Tabernacle which he placed due East and West, to receive the first rays of the rising sun, and to commemorate the mighty east wind by which the miraculous deliverance of his people was wrought. This Tabernacle was a model for King Solomons Temple; for which reason all Masonic Lodges are, or should be, situated due east and west. (p. 30)
Our ancient brethren dedicated their Lodges to K. S. because he was our first M. E. G. Master.; but modern Masons dedicate their Lodges to St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, who were two eminent patrons of Masonry; and since their time, there is represented, in every regular and well-governed Lodge, a certain Point within a Circle--embordered by two perpendicular parallel lines, representing St. J. the B. and St. J. the E.; and upon the top rest the Holy Scriptures. The Point represents an individual Brother; the Circle is the boundary line, beyond which he is never to suffer his passions, prejudices, or interests to betray him. In going round this circle, we necessarily touch upon these two lines, as well as upon the Holy Scriptures; and while a Mason keeps himself circumscribed within these due bounds it is impossible that he materially err. (p. 33)
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. [1 Cor. 13]
Thus he shewed me: and, behold, the LORD stood upon a wall made by a plumbline, with a plumbline in his hand.OR
And the LORD said unto me, Amos, what seest thou? And I said, A plumbline. Then said the LORD, Behold, I will set a plumbline in the midst of my people Israel: I will not again pass by them any more: [Amos vii, 7, 8.] (p. 41-42)
In six days God created the heaven and the earth, and rested on the seventh; the seventh day, therefore, our Ancient Brethren consecrated as a day of rest from their labors, thereby enjoying frequent opportunities to contemplate the glorious works of the creation and to adore their great Creator. (p. 44)
The passages of Scripture referred to are found in Judges XII, 1-6. (p. 55)
Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;
While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:
In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened,
And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;
Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets: (p. 61; just below the reading is a picture of a Bible turned to Ecclesiastes 12, with the S. & C. upon it)
-Joppa is a seaport town and harbor on the coast of Palestine, about forty miles in a westerly direction from Jerusalem. At the time of the building of King Solomon's Temple, Joppa was the only seaport possessed by the Israelites and was therefore the point through which all passage out of or into the country was effected. (p. 63)
Most holy and glorious Lord God, the Great Architect of the Universe, the giver of all good gifts and graces! thou hast promised that "where two or three are gathered together in thy name thou wilt be in their midst, and bless them." In thy name we have assembled, and in thy name we desire to proceed in all our doings. (Redding, AR, p. 14)
In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. (Redding, AR, p. 16)
The three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, and are thus explained: The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide of our faith and practice; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires, and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially with the brethren. (Redding, AR, p. 16-17)
We read in the book of Ruth concerning their manner of changing and redeeming, that "to confirm all things a man plucked off his shoe and gave it to his neighbor." That was a testimony in Israel. This therefore we do, testifying in the strongest manner possible the sincerity of our intentions in the work in which we are engaged.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."--Matthew vii. 7. (Redding, AR, p. 21)
A certain number of Free and Accepted Masons duly assembled, furnished with the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, together with a Warrant or Dispensation from some Grand Body of competent jurisdiction empowering them to work, constitute a Lodge. (Redding, AR, p. 25)
The covering of a Lodge is no less than the cloudy canopy, or starry-decked heaven, where all good Masons hope at last to arrive, by the aid of that theological ladder which Jacob,in his vision, saw extending from earth to heaven, the three principal rounds of which are denominated FAITH, HOPE, and CHARITY; which admonish us to have faith in God, hope of immortality, and charity to all mankind.
The greatest of these is CHARITY; for our faith may be lost in sight; hope ends in fruition; but charity extends beyond the grave, through the boundless realm of eternity. (Redding, AR, p. 29)
The furniture of a Lodge consists of a Ho]y Bible, Square,and Compasses. The Holy Bible is dedicated to God; the Square, to the Master, and the Compasses, to the craft.
The Bible is dedicated to God, because it is the inestimable gift of God to man; (Redding, AR, p. 29)
Thus we close the explanation of the emblems upon the solemn thought of death, which, without revelation, is dark and gloomy; but we are suddenly revived by the ever-green and ever-living spring of Faith which strengthens us, with confidence and composure, to look forward to a blessed immortality; and we doubt not that, on the glorious morn of the Resurrection, our bodies will rise, and become as incorruptible as our souls.
Then let us imitate the good man in his virtuous and amiable conduct, in his unfeigned piety to God, in his inflexible fidelity to his trust, that we may welcome the grim tyrant Death, and receive him as a kind messenger from our Supreme Grand Master, to translate us from this imperfect to that all-perfect, glorious and celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the universes presides. (Redding, AR, p. 80-81)
To the memory of the Holy Saints John, we dedicate this Lodge. May every brother revere their character and imitate their virtues!
Response.--As it was in the beginning, is not, and ever shall be; world without end.--Amen. (Redding, AR, p. 102)
In the name of the great Jehovah, to whom be all honor and glory, I do solemnly dedicate this hall to Freemasonry. (Redding, AR, p. 139)
This Hall, designed and built by Wisdom, supported by Strength, and adorned by Beauty, we are first to consecrate in the name of the great Jehovah; which teaches us, in all our works, begun and finished, to acknowledge, adore and magnify him. It reminds us, also, in his fear to enter the door of the Lodge, to put our trust in him while passing its trials, and to hope in him for the reward of its labors. (Redding, AR, p. 141-42)
We should therefore so regulate our lives that we may always be found worthy to be called from labor to refreshment, and duly prepared for the great change from the terrestrial to the celestial Lodge, to join the fraternity of the spirits of just men made perfect. (Redding, AR, p. 159)
Then let us improve this solemn warning, that at last, when the sheeted dead are stirring, when the great white throne is set, we shall receive from the Omniscient Judge the thrilling invitation: "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." (Redding, AR, p. 171)
Finally, when God sends his angel with the scroll of death--of our death, let us meet it with the fortitude of men, and with Christian resignation lay down our heads softly and go to sleep, without lamentation. To bear grief temperately, and to die willingly and nobly are the duties of a good man and true Mason. (Redding, AR, p. 200)
-Lo, he goeth by me, and I see him not: he passeth on also, but I perceive him not. Behold, he taketh away, who can hinder him? Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble.
He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not. Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months are with thee, thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass;
Turn from him, that he may rest, till he shall accomplish, as an hireling, his day.
For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease.
Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground;
Yet through the scent of water it will bud, and bring forth boughs like a plant.
But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he?
As the waters fail from the sea, and the flood decayeth and drieth up:
So man lieth down, and riseth not: till the heavens be no more, they shall not awake, nor be raised out of their sleep.
My days are past, my purposes are broken off, even the thoughts of my heart.
If I wait, the grave is mine house: I have made my bed in the darkness.
I have said to corruption, Thou art my father: to the worm, Thou art my mother, and my sister.
And where is now my hope? as for my hope, who shall see it?
They shall go down to the bars of the pit, when our rest together is in the dust.
My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh.
Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book!
That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever!
For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth:
And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God:
Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another
For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me.
Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple.
The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head.
I said in the cutting off of my days, I shall go to the gates of the grave: I am deprived of the residue of my years.
I said, I shall not see the LORD, even the LORD, in the land of the living: I shall behold man no more with the inhabitants of the world.
Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption:
For the grave cannot praise thee, death can not celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for thy truth.
The living, the living, he shall praise thee, as I do this day:
Are not my days few? cease then, and let me alone, that I may take comfort a little,
Before I go whence I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death;
A land of darkness, as darkness itself; and of the shadow of death, without any order, and where the light is as darkness. (Redding, AR, Lodge of Sorrow, p. 198-200)
Book Review from the Southern California Research Lodge
Workman Unashamed The Testimony of a Christian Freemason
By Christopher Haffner
is back in print in a second edition after a 15 year hiatus. Robert E. Winterton, Sr. had this to say about the book some15 years ago:
Over the years I have repeatedly been asked to define terms such as Religion, Religious, or Christian and correlate them to Freemasonry. As a senior pastor of my church for over 36 years, as Master of my Lodge and as Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of California, I have been the target of inquiries by those who really wanted to know, as well as those whose opinions had long since been cast in bronze.
Despite the fact that much literature has been written on the subject, from obscure articles, through pamphlets, to literary tomes (I even wrote a position paper for the Grand Lodge of California), no one single volume, regardless of size, seemed adequate in addressing the controversial subject.
Most authors have limited scopes of knowledge or preconceived opinions which preclude a full discussion of the subject. Christopher Kit Haffner, the author of Workman Unashamed, has given us a book that is unique in a plethora of ways. He is a Master Mason and an Anglican with extensive knowledge of the Roman Church, yet is conversant with the doctrines and practices of Methodists, Baptists, Plymouth Brethren and the Charismatics. He has worshiped with them all and studied their points of view with an open mind. So open, in fact, he has discovered just how much of an organized religions problem has to do with semantics, terms, vocabularies and communication in general. Through his research, seemingly a life-long project, he has assembled a compendium of fact, knowledge, logic and general information on a multitude of religious and Masonic subjects, from Deism through Agnosticism to Satanism.
I first read the book when it was loaned to me by a friend. I thought so much of the publication I purchased a copy for my library. I never want to be caught without a copy to loan to an inquisitive friend or brother. The author doesnt ask you to agree with him. Neither do I! But his mind is so pregnant with information, his soul so eager to communicate, and his attitude so open and unaggressive, he is compelling. At last, I have a single volume I may suggest for those who really want to know as well as those who would like to be able to explain their point of view to another.
I highly recommend the book to my fellows of the Craft. (Alberta Freemason, January 2009)
The seal of our Grand Lodge (borrowed from Royal Arch Masonry) summarizes our mission as Masons: Holiness to the Lord. Jesus put it this way, Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. (Empire State Mason, Fall 2003)
-In the solemn ceremonies of Freemasonry we refer to the Holy Bible as the rule and guide of our faith, at once professing a belief in the holy writings and specifying that volume of sacred law.
Within that sacred source we read that God promised Solomon that the eyes of the Almighty "would be opened to and His ears attentive to every prayer made in this place", (2Chron7:15) clearly distinguishing between prayers made outdoors under the canopy of heaven in the manner of the pagans from those made within a building constructed for that special purpose in the Hebrew tradition.
To what especially constructed space does God refer to in this promise to Solomon? To Solomon's social center? To Solomon's building? To Solomon's hall?
This reference, attributed directly to God, refers to King Solomon's Temple, that same stupendous edifice which we as Freemasons so painstaking represent in our ceremonies and then from within which we so often invoke the blessing of God.
The word temple, for ages esteemed by speculative and operative Masons alike, derives from the Latin word templum, a place cut off or separated for observation or learning. Webster's dictionary defines the word temple as a place devoted to a special purpose, or the local lodge of any of various fraternal orders and the building housing it.
With an understanding of the true and proper meaning of the word should Freemasons abandon its use and remove it from the signs that identify our lodges solely to please an ignorant outside world out of fear that our ancient and honorable fraternity may be branded as having some religious connotations? That we are God fearing men; is that to be a secret shame?
To be sure there are those in this world who find the symbol of the square and compass an objectionable affront. Should that venerable sign be next to fall from our public face, relegated to embarrassed private usage alone? And what of that volume of sacred law, the Holy Bible itself, that is so widely held in open contempt today? Is that next destined for removal from the furniture of the lodge room to spare us from any uncomfortable disparagement from an agnostic, atheist or sectarian public? Where is such a slippery slope to begin, and where ended? There are many in the world that claim the American flag is a blood banner, to be honored by warmongers alone. Are the stars and stripes to lose their place of honor in the lodge room to insure that we are not associated with warriors?
To apologize for and attempt to frame the public presentation of our Craft to pacify the profane is a profound, inexcusable and unjustifiable disservice to Brethren past that stood their ground in the face of adversities we have yet to face. It is to surrender to imagined future enemies without a fight.
To do so is to hand over our traditions for which living Brothers, in real history have died at the hands of tyrants rather than surrender their integrity, an example my Brothers, worthy of all imitation.
"Therefore Brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught by mouth to ear, or by letter." -2 Thessalonians 2:15 (Richard Dinsmore, "Freemasonry Without Apology," California Freemason, 2003, #1)
The training program is directed under the auspices of the FL Digest and most of it appears on their website as downloadable documents. Missing from those documents are the Lodge System of Masonic Education (LSME) booklets mentioned in my posts and in the above article. That, however, does not mean they are not still in force.The Grand Lodge of Florida has a comprehensive set of booklets to disseminate the Light that each one of us sought when we began our journey to the East. One of these is the Mentors Manual, a 36 page guide covering the basic tenants of Freemasonry and the symbolism of the three degrees. This is followed by four booklets entitled The Lodge System of Masonic Education; one given to the Candidate prior to the first degree, and one after each degree. Three additional booklets are given, one after the completion of each degree explaining the ritual he just went through. The use of these booklets can help to establish the BOND that is required between the new Brother and the Fraternity, not just the Lodge he joined, but the Universal Lodge composed of all the recognized Grand Lodges throughout the world. The EDUCATION process needs to be continued after the completion of the Master Mason degree. Again, the Grand Lodge of Florida has additional training material for this purpose; the Lodge Training Course, Modules I, II, and III and the Master Mason Exam. And then, when the new Brother steps into the line of Officers, there is an Officers Training Course. (FL GL, The Florida Mason, Spring 2008 Issue, pg. 2)
The use of these booklets can help to establish the “BOND” that is required between the new Brother and the Fraternity, not just the Lodge he joined, but the Universal Lodge composed of all the recognized Grand Lodges throughout the world.
An irrelevant point at best, since the rituals and monitors, even by your own standards, are what counts when it comes to Masonic authority of Grand Lodge publications.The training program is directed under the auspices of the FL Digest and most of it appears on their website as downloadable documents. Missing from those documents are the Lodge System of Masonic Education (LSME) booklets mentioned in my posts and in the above article. That, however, does not mean they are not still in force.
Nor will you be receiving them either. I was denied even after my payment was accepted, and even after submitting the requested verification that I am a Mason, which consisted of a scanned copy of my current dues card. My request was rejected simply because I am not a Mason in Florida. So even though you can pass the residency requirement, I'm pretty sure you don't have a dues card, and cannot therefore obtain those materials. Which of course, is why all we've heard from you is talk about those materials, with no subsequent indication you've obtained them.I have ordered copies of training documentation from the GL, but have not yet received them.
THREE GREAT LIGHTS: The Holy Bible, Square & Compasses. (Florida, "Dictionary of Masonic Terms," Module 2 Study Guide, 2002, p. 82)
Compare the EA rituals in them and you see quite a lot of that commonality. There certainly are differences here and there, but commonality occurs more than the exceptions. 10/17
I guess you found nothing in the GL monitors or rituals to back up your assertions. 10/30
. . .find a monitorial or ritual reference. . . 10/30
All monitorial and ritualistic discussions of the ashlars, which would be authoritative, that I've seen either do not mention their shape or picture them as rectangular solids. 10/31
I just note that they are not monitorial and do not carry the impact of the GL monitors and rituals I've quoted. You've relied on personal opinions where I prefer to take the GL authoritative statements. 11/22 [note: fact is, you haven't "quoted" any rituals or monitors at all, only pointed to pictures, and tried to assert them as declarative.]
You will note that I said my library of monitors and rituals were in storage, as they are. But I keep extensive reference files on my PC, as I'm sure you do also. The Alabama Ritual, which shows both ashlars to be rectangular solids, came to light in a box we unpacked last week. 11/26
Gee, no monitors and no rituals. And I still have the AR and the "Masonic Ritual of Alabama" that picture them as rectangular solids. 11/27
The profession which you have chosen for your lot in life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties of your present appointment with steadfastness and perseverance in well doing. The Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, we entrust to your care. (Alabama Manual, Installation of Officers, 1911, p. 196)
The profession which you have chosen for your lot in life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties of your present appointment with steadfastness and perseverance in well doing. The Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, we entrust to your care. (Alabama Manual, Installation of Grand Lodge Officers, 1943, p. 185)
The profession which you have chosen for your lot in life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties of your present appointment with steadfastness and perseverance in well doing. The Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, we intrust to your care. (Alabama, Installation of Officers, 1984, p. 203)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide for our faith and practice. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well with the world at large as with each other. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses, the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to you, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in our Order. (Alabama Manual, Installation of Officers, 1911, p. 183)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide for our faith and practice. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well with the world at large as with each other. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses, the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to you, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in our Order. (Alabama Manual, Installation of Officers, 1943, p. 172)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide for our faith and practice. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well with the world at large as with each other. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses, the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to you, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in our Order. (Alabama Manual, Installation of Officers, 1984, p. 189)
The first objects that you viewed on being brought from darkness are the three Great Lights of Freemasonry, the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses. The Holy Bible is given us as a rule and guide of our faith, the Square to square our actions, and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds to all mankind, particularly our brothers in Freemasonry. (Arizona, EA degree, 1965, p. 11)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, guides us to all truth, directs our path to the temple of happiness, and points out the whole duty of man. (Arkansas, Thornburgh's Monitor, Installation of Officers, 1938, p. 84)
The first object presented to your view, on being brought from darkness are the three great lights of Freemasonry, the Holy Bible, square, and compasses. The Holy Bible is given to us as the rule and guide of our faith; the square to square our actions; and the compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds toward all mankind. (California, EA degree, 1990, p. 25)
The three great lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compass. (California, EA Handbook, 2008, p. 10)
The Three Great Lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compass. (California, Mentoring Program Manual, 2004, p. 66)
18. What are the Three Great Lights of Masonry and why are they placed in the center of the Lodge? (The alter with the Three Great Lights upon it symbolizes the place which God has in Masonry, and which He should have in every person’s life. No Lodge in California may stand officially open, unless the Holy Bible is opened upon its Altar and the Square and Compass is displayed thereon.)
19. What does the open Volume of the Sacred Law (VSL) upon the Altar signify, and which Holy Book(s) do we use in California? (The open Holy Bible signifies that we should regulate our conduct according to its teachings, because it is the rule and guide of our faith. The King James Version.) (California, Mentoring Program Manual, 2004, "Answers to EA Questions," p. 81)
The Three Great Lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compass. (California EA Masonic Education booklet, 2005 edition for use in Canadian lodges, p. 14)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide for our faith and practice. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well with the world at large as with each other. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses, the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to you, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in Freemasonry. (Colorado Craftsman, Charge to the Master, Installation of Officers, 1914, p. 95)
But is this the end of man, the expiring hope of a faithful Mason? No, blessed be God, we pause not upon our first or second step, but, true to our principles, we look forward for greater light, and, while the embers of mortality are faintly glimmering in the socket of our existence, the Bible--that Great Light in Masonry--removes the dark shroud, draws aside the sable curtains of the tomb, and bids Hope and Joy rise up to cheer and sustain the departing spirit. It points beyond the tomb to the breaking ight of a resurrection morn, and bids us turn our eyes with hope and confidence on the opening scenes of eternity. (Colorado Craftsman, MM degree, 1914, p. 119)
The three great lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. The Holy Bible is dedicated to the service of God, because it is the inestimable gift of God to man. (Florida Monitor, EA degree, 1996, p. 30)
Use of Bible containing extraneous matter is not proper. The First Grand Light in Masonry is the unadorned Holy Bible. (1941 Proc. 82) (Florida, Digest of Masonic Law, 2010, "Regulations" Section 38.27)
GREAT LIGHTS: The furniture of the Lodge; the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. (Florida, "Dictionary of Masonic Terms," Module 2 Study Guide, 2002, p. 71)
THREE GREAT LIGHTS: The Holy Bible, Square & Compasses. (Florida, "Dictionary of Masonic Terms," Module 2 Study Guide, 2002, p. 82)
The three Great Lights of Freemasonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide for our faith and practice; the Square to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds. (Georgia Manual, EA degree, 1947, p. 16)
The profession which you have chosen for your lot in life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties of your present appointment with steadfastness and perseverance in well-doing. The Holy Bible, that great light of Freemasonry, we intrust to your care. (Georgia Manual, Installation of Grand Lodge Officers, Charge to the Grand Chaplain, 1947, p. 122)
My brother, upon being brought to light in this degree you discover the three great lights in Masonry by the assistance of the three lesser. The three great lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square, andCompasses. The Holy Bible is given as the rule and guide of our faith, the square, to Square our actions, and the Compasses to circumscribe and keep us within due bounds. (Illinois, EA degree, 1986, p. 24-25)
The three great lights are the Holy Bible, Square, and compasses. The Bible is given as the rule and guide of our faith; the square to square our actions; and the compasses to circumscribe and keep us within due bounds. (Illinois Monitor, EA degree, 1916, p. 9)
The three great lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, square, and compasses. The Bible is given as the rule and guide of our faith; the square to square our actions, and the compasses to circumscribe and keep us within due bounds. (Illinois, Monitor, EA, 1962, p. 12)
But is this the end of man and the expiring hope of faithful Masons? No, blessed be God, but true to our principles we pause not at our first or second step but press forward for greater light; and as the last embers of mortal life are yet feebly glimmering in the socket of existence, the Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, lifts the shroud, draws aside the sable curtains of the tomb, and bids hope and joy rouse up to sustain and cheer the departing spirit. It points beyond the dark valley of the shadow of death and bids us turn an eye of faith and confidence to the vast and opening scenes of boundless eternity. (Illinois, MM degree, 1986, p. 162-63)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth. It will direct your path to the temple of happiness, and point out to your the whole duty of man. (Illinois, Installation of Officers, Book of Ceremonials, 1931, p. 44)
Brother .............., you are appointed (or elected) chaplain of .............. Lodge. The Holy Bible, which is the textbook of the chaplain's calling, is the Great Light in Freemasonry and forever sheds its benign rays upon every lawful assemblage of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons. From it we may learn our duty to God, our neighbors and ourselves. Teach us from its life-giving precepts and you will have fulfilled your sacred and important trust. It is fitting that an emblem of the sacred volume should be the jewel of your office, and with it you are now invested. (Illinois, Installation of Officers, Book of Ceremonials, 1931, p. 50)
13. The Holy Bible should be borne in a funeral procession and open at the 12th Chapter of Ecclesiastes, with the square on one page and the compasses on the other. (Illinois, "Rules Governing Processions," Book of Ceremonials, 1931, p. 96)
The Holy Bible is the rule and guide of faith; the Square to square our actions; and the Compass to circumscribe and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason. (Indiana Monitor, EA degree, 1953, p. 54)
My brother, on being brought * * * for the first time in Masonry, you observe * * * the Three Great Lights of Masonry, by the aid of the representatives of the Three Lesser Lights.
The three great lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, the Square, and the Compasses.
The Holy bible is given to us to be the rule and guide for our faith and practice. It is dedicated to God, being the last, best, and most inestimable gift from God to man. (Kentucky Monitor, EA degree, 1918, p. 17-18)
My brother, on being brought * * * for the first time in Masonry, you observe upon the Altar before you the Three Great Lights of Masonry, by the aid of the representatives of the Three Lesser Lights.
The three great lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, the Square, and the Compasses.
The Holy bible is given to us to be the rule and guide for our faith and practice. It is dedicated to God, being the last, best, and most inestimable gift from God to man. (Kentucky Monitor, EA degree, 1987, p. 10-11)
[It is the Great Light of Masonry which unfolds the beauties of God's Eternal Truth. On it rests our mystic ladder which rises from earth to Heaven, teaching us that by faith in the Great Architect of the Universe we may confidently hope to become partakers of the promises therein recorded. It also teaches that the Divine Charity which has been extended to us should, by Masons, be extended to all mankind. It constantly reminds us of the duty we owe to God, our neighbor and ourselves. Wisdom, strength and beauty are in its pages. The tenets of our profession, Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth are taught therein. Take, then, my Brother, this sacred volume, the symbol of our ancient Craft, and make it the rule and guide of your life and conduct. It is the one Volume which has lived in the hearts of the people, moulding and shaping their destinies, and leads the way to Him who is the light of the world. Take its divine light into your very soul and you will be thereby enabled to mount from the humble estate of your earthly nature to the glorious heights of God's eternal Truth.] (Kentucky Monitor, EA degree, 1987, p. 11-12)
The three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses. (Louisiana Monitor, EA degree, 1927, p. 22)
The three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses. (Louisiana Monitor, EA degree, 1957, p. 22)
I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. However they may differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry therefore opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding all sectarian discussion within its Lodge rooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all its candidates by the hand and, leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find as he there shall find it.
If from our Sacred Altars the irresponsible autocrat should ever be able to wrest this book of Sacred laws, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light of Masonry--that Light which has for centuries been the rule and guide of Freemasons--then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of Free and Accepted Masons; but, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsmen by the golden rays of truth, so long will Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, my brother, that Book of Sacred and Immutable Law as you guard your life. Defend it as you defend the flag of your country. Live according to its divine teachings, with its everlasting assurances of a blessed immortality. (Louisiana Monitor, EA degree, 1927, p. 23-24)
I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. However they may differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry therefore opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding all sectarian discussion within its Lodge rooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all its candidates by the hand and, leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find as he there shall find it.
If from our Sacred Altars the irresponsible autocrat should ever be able to wrest this book of Sacred laws, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light of Masonry--that Light which has for centuries been the rule and guide of Freemasons--then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of Free and Accepted Masons; but, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsmen by the golden rays of truth, so long will Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, my brother, that Book of Sacred and Immutable Law as you guard your life. Defend it as you defend the flag of your country. Live according to its divine teachings, with its everlasting assurances of a blessed immortality. (Louisiana Monitor, EA degree, 1957, p. 23-24)
Masonic Light is the object of every Mason's search. That is truly a laudable object. Light, ever and ever more light. From the first faint perception of those Three Great Lights, the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, until he shuffles off this mortal coil, the earnest Mason seeks for Light. Seeks in the Holy Bible, that inestimable gift from God to man which is given us as a rule and guide for our faith and practice; seeks in the symbolism of the Square and Compasses; seeks in the great book of Nature; seeks in the hearts and lives of men. If he shall realize that Masonic Light is a symbol for Truth, if he shall see beyond the symbol to the Truth itself, comprehending it by the light of knowledge and wisdom; then the full glory of Masonic Light will shine in his heart and he will go forth to bear the light aloft and let it shine among men. (Louisiana Monitor, EA degree, 1927, p. 43-44)
Masonic Light is the object of every Mason's search. That is truly a laudable object. Light, ever and ever more light. From the first faint perception of those Three Great Lights, the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, until he shuffles off this mortal coil, the earnest Mason seeks for Light. Seeks in the Holy Bible, that inestimable gift from God to man which is given us as a rule and guide for our faith and practice; seeks in the symbolism of the Square and Compasses; seeks in the great book of Nature; seeks in the hearts and lives of men. If he shall realize that Masonic Light is a symbol for Truth, if he shall see beyond the symbol to the Truth itself, comprehending it by the light of knowledge and wisdom; then the full glory of Masonic Light will shine in his heart and he will go forth to bear the light aloft and let it shine among men. (Louisiana Monitor, EA degree, 1957, p. 43-44)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth, direct your path to the temple of happiness, and point out the whole duty of man. (Louisiana Monitor, Installation of the Master, 1927, p. 196)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth, direct your path to the temple of happiness, and point out the whole duty of man. (Louisiana Monitor, Installation of the Master, 1957, p. 202)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide for our faith and practice. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well as with the world at large as with one another. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses; the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to your, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in our Order. (Louisiana Monitor, Installation of the Master, 1927, p. 204)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide for our faith and practice. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well as with the world at large as with one another. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses; the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to your, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in our Order. (Louisiana Monitor, Installation of the Master, 1957, p. 210-11)
The calling which you have chosen for your lot in life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties of your present appointment with steadfastness and perseverance in well doing. The Holy Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, we entrust to your care. (Louisiana Monitor, Installation of the Grand Chaplain, 1927, p. 218)
The calling which you have chosen for your lot in life is the best guarantee that you will discharge the duties of your present appointment with steadfastness and perseverance in well doing. The Holy Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, we entrust to your care. (Louisiana Monitor, Installation of the Grand Chaplain, 1957, p. 225)
I also commit to your hands the HOLY BIBLE, the Great Light in every degree of Masonry, together with the CROSS SWORDS. The doctrines contained in this sacred volume, create in us a belief in the existence of the eternal JEHOVAH, the one only true and living God, the Creator and Judge of all things in heaven and on earth. They also confirm in us a belief in the dispensations of his Providence. This belief strengthens our FAITH, and enables us to ascend the first step of the Grand Masonic Ladder. This FAITH naturally produces in us a HOPE of becoming partakers of the promises expressed in this inestimable gift of GOD to man, which hope enables us to ascend the second step. But the third and the last, being CHARITY, comprehends the former, and will continue to exert its influence when Faith shall be lost in sight, and Hope in complete enjoyment. (Macoy, Masonic Manual, p. 279)
I also present to you the three Great Lights in Masonry: the Holy Bible Square and Compasses.
The Bible, the Great Light in Masonry will guide you to all truth, will direct your paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Maine Monitor, Installation of officers, 1942, p. 64)
[FONT='Times New Roman','serif'] [/font]I also present to you the three Great Lights in Masonry: the Holy Bible Square and Compasses.
The Bible, the Great Light in Masonry will guide you to all truth, will direct your paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Maine, Blue Book, 1997, p. 41)
The Bible we use is the original Great Light of this Lodge. It is in regular use each meeting and has been rebound. On the title page we find the following; "Edinburgh - Printed by Mark and Charles Kerr Printers to His Majesty, MDCCXC (1785). His Majesty at that time was George the third who by his arrogance and wisdom of his ministers lost to the Crown the English Colonies in North America. It may be that he did not hear or perhaps he didn't listen to that bell that rang in Philadelphia on that July day in 1776. (Proceedings, Maine, 2004)
In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light; and there was light. (@) (Genesis 1:1-3)
Brother, on being brought to light, you first discover the three Great Lights of Masonry by the help of the three lesser. The three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. The Holy Bible is to rule and guide our faith, the square to square our actions and the compasses to circumscribe and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason. (Michigan, EA degree, 2000, p. 13)
The Bible, (that great light in Masonry) informs us that "no man liveth and sinneth not"; yet we can so live as we shall have wished we had when our bodies shall be squared and numbered for the quarries of earth. Hence the necessity of guarding well the outer door. (Michigan Manual, 2009, XXVI-24)
The Holy Bible, that great light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will direct your paths to the Temple of Happiness and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Michigan Monitor, installation of officers, 1996, p. 16)
But is death the end of man and the expiring hope of all faithful Masons? No -- Blessed be God. We pause not on our first or second step, but true to our profession look forward for greater light. As the span of our earthly existence is drawing to a close, the Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, removes the dark cloud and bids hope and joy rise up to cheer and sustain us. (Michigan Monitor, Committal Service, 1996, p. 55)
I now place in your care the furniture and implements of Masonry. The Holy Bible with the Square and Compass upon its open pages, is on the Altar, where it must always be when the Lodge is at Labor.
The HOLY WRITINGS, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will direct your paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Minnesota Monitor, EA degree, 2009, p. 64)
The three great lights are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, and are thus used: the Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide of our faith and practice; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires, and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially with a brother Freemason. (Missouri Monitor, EA degree, 1909, p. 13)
The following passage of Scripture is here used: Genesis 1:1-3.
In the beginning God created the Heaven and the earth, and the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep, and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light; and there was light.
* * * *
THE THREE GREAT LIGHTS
The Holy Bible is the rule and guide of faith, the Square, to square our actions; and the Compass to circumscribe our desires, and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason. (Nebraska Monitor, EA degree, 1923)
The following passage of Scripture is here used: Genesis 1:1-3.
In the beginning God created the Heaven and the earth, and the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep, and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light; and there was light.
* * * *
The Three Great Lights
* * * *
The Holy Bible is the rule and guide of faith, the Square, to square our actions; and the Compass to circumscribe our desires, and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason. (Nebraska Monitor, EA degree, 1991)
My brother, on being brought to light in Masonry, you discover upon the altar before you the three great lights of Mazsonry, by the light of the representatives of the three lesser lights. The three great lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses; the Holy Bible is the rule and guide of faith; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with at brother Mason. (Nebraska, EA degree, 1994, p. 24)
Q: On being brought to light in Masonry, what did you first discover?
A: The three great lights of Masonry, by the light of the representatives of the three lesser lights.
Q: What are the three great lights of Masonry?
A: The Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.
Q: What do they Masonically teach?
A: The Holy Bible is the rule and guide of faith; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason. (Nebraska, EA degree, 1994. p. 38)
But is this the end of man and aspiring hope of a faithful Mason? No! Blessed be God! The Bible, that Great Light in Masonry, reveals the way of eternal life, and bids joy and hope arise to cheer and sustain the departing spirit. It points beyond the valley of the shadow of death and bids us turn our eyes with faith and confidence to the opening scenes of a a vast and boundless eternity. We know, that beyond the veil which we cannot penetrate, lies the promised land. Masonry teaches us to believe in immortality. "I am the resurrection and the life," said the Lord, "He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live, and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die." (Nebraska, "Masonic Funeral Service," Book of Ceremonies, 1993, p. 57-58)
My Brother, on being brought to Light in Freemasonry, you first behold the Three Great Lights, by aid of the representatives of the Three Lesser. The Three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, and are thus explained: The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide for our faith and practice, the Square to square our actions, and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially the Brethren.
(Bible Lecture)
I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. Howsoever men differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry therefore opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding sectarian discussion within its Lodgerooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all good men by the hand, and leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find, and as he there shall find it.
If from our sacred altars the atheist, the infidel, the irreligious man, or the libertine should ever be able to wrest this Book of Sacred Laws, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light in Masonry - that Light which has for centuries been the rule and guide of Freemasons - then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of Free and Accepted Masons; but so long as that Sacred Light shines upon our altars, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsmen by the golden rays of truth, so long and no longer can Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, that Book of sacred and immutable law as you would guard your very life. Defend it as you would the flag of your country. Live according to its divine teachings, with its everlasting assurance of a blessed immortality. (Nevada, EA degree, 1986, p. 10)
[FONT='Arial','sans-serif'] [/font]Q. What are the Three Great Lights in Masonry?
A. The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses.
Q. How are they explained?
A. The Holy Bible is given us a the rule and guide for our faith and practice, the Square to square our actions and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially the Brethren. (Nevada, EA degree, 1986, p. 25)
The three great lights are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses. The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide of our faith and practice; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind. (New Mexico Monitor, EA degree, 1984, p. 19)
The HOLY BIBLE is the world's supreme record of man's experience and faith. It is the Mason's trestleboard in character building.
In this Book are laid down the principles of successful living. Its great men loom large upon the background of the world's history. They lived, they fought, they love, they sinned, they repented. And they have left behind them--here--the testimony that the keeping of God's laws and the doing of God's will, are the things worth living for. We need to know the Bible, to learn its precepts, to reverence it as our great book friend.
And, my Brother, that your feet may not falter, that your path may be well lighted, your Lodge has commissioned me to place in your hands this evening, your very own personal copy of the GREAT LIGHT, with the prayer that it may indeed be a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. (New Mexico Monitor, Bible Presentation, 1984, p. 60)
I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. Howsoever men differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the Holy Bible are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry, therefore, opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding sectarian discussion within its Lodge rooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all good men by the hand and leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find as he there shall find it.
If, from our Sacred Altars, the atheist, the infidel, the irreligious man, or the libertine, should be able to wrest this book of Sacred law, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light in Masonry, that Light which for centuries has been the rule and guide of Freemasons, then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of Free & Accepted Masons; but, as long as that Sacred Light shines upon our Altars, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsman by its golden rays of truth, so long, and no longer, can Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, that Book of Sacred and Immutable Law as you would guard your very life. Defend it as you would the flag of your country. Live according to its Divine teachings, with its everlasting assurance of a blessed immortality. (New York Monitor, EA degree, 1979, p. 7-8)
The Holy Writings, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will direct your path to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. However men may differ in creed, yet all men agree that within the pages of the Holy Bible are found those principles which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry would take all men by the hand and, leading them to its altar, would point to the open Bible and urge each faithfully to direct his steps through life by the light he shall find therein. If, from our sacred altar, the atheist or irreligious man should ever wrest this book and thus remove, or even obscure, the Great Light of Freemasonry, that light which has been for centuries the rule and guide of all masons, then we could no longer claim the proud title and rank of master mason. As long as that sacred light shines upon our altar, as long as it illumines and brightens the pathway of the craftsman by the golden rays of truth; so long will Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence among men. Guard, then, my brother, this sacred book as you guard your life. Defend it as you would defend the flag of your country. Live according to its sublime precepts; govern yourself that you may be able to govern others; learn first that you may be able to teach; for justice, moderation, and decorum should mark the acts of an upright man. (North Carolina, Officers Handbook, 2006, p. 16)
We have been given the light which for us is the Holy Bible. We must show the light. (Proceedings, NC, 2004, p. 125)
Brother ______, on being brought to light you discovered the three great lights of Masonry by the aid of the representatives of the three lesser. The three great lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, square, and compasses. The Holy Bible is given as the rule and guide of our faith; the square, to square our actions; and the compasses to circumscribe our desires and keep our passions within due bounds with all mankind. The three lesser lights, represented by three burning tapers placed in a triangular form, are the sun, moon, and Master of the Lodge. As the sun rules the day and the moon governs the night, so ought the W.M. to endeavor to rule and govern the Lodge with equal regularity. (Ohio, EA degree, 1986, p. 21)
[FONT='Times New Roman','serif'] [/font]The Three Great Lights of Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses. (Ohio, EA Handbook, 2008, p. 11)
The Holy Writings, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you in all truth; it will direct your path to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Oregon Manual, Installation of Officers, 1919, p. 203)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, we entrust to your care. (Oregon Manual, Installation of Officers, 1919, p. 220)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, we entrust to your care. (Oregon Manual, Installation of Grand Lodge Officers, 1979, p. 96)
The Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, we intrust to your care. (Oregon Manual, Installation of Grand Lodge Officers, 1919, p. 230)
Morality and virtue are the foundations of the lessons to be imparted to your Brethren in the Lodge, and the Holy Bible, that Great Light of Masonry, is entrusted to your care. (Oregon Manual, Installation of Officers, 1979, p. 115)
Bro. _______, on being brought to light in Masonry, you behold the three great lights by aid of the representatives of the three lesser. The three great lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses and are thus explained: The H.B. is given us as the rule and guide for our faith and practice; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe our desires, and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind. The three lesser lights are the Sun, Moon, and Master of the Lodge, and are thus explained: as the Sun rules the day and the Moon governs the night, so should the W.M., with equal regularity, rule and govern the Lodge.
The representatives of the three lesser lights are three burning candles, or tapers, placed upon candlesticks or pedestals, situated E. W. and S. [Lights are turned on] I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry, the Holy Bible. Howsoever men differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the H.B. are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry, therefore, opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding sectarian discussion within its Lodge rooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all good men by the hand and leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find as he there shall find it.
If, from our Sacred Altars, the atheist, the infidel, the irreligious man, or the libertine, should be able to wrest this book of Sacred law, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light in Masonry, that Light which for centuries has been the rule and guide of Freemasons, then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of F. & A. Masons; but, as long as that Sacred Light shines upon our Altars, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsman by its golden rays of truth, so long, and no longer, can Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence upon mankind. Guard then, that Book of Sacred and Immutable Law as you would guard your very life. Defend it as you would the flag of your country. Live according to its Divine teachings, with its everlasting assurance of a blessed immortality. (Prince Hall, EA Degree, 1990, p. 40-42)
Q.--What are the three great lights in Masonry?
A.--The Holy Bible, square, and compasses.
Q,--What are their Masonic use?
A.--The Holy Bible is the rule and guide to our faith and practice; the square, to square our actions; and the compasses, to circumscribe and keep us within bounds with all mankind, but more especially with a brother Mason. (Prince Hall-California, EA degree, 1948, p. 104-05)
Q.--What furniture has a Lodge?
A.--The Holy Bible, square, and compasses.
Q.--To whom are they dedicated?
A.--The Bible is dedicated to God, the square to the Master, and the compasses to the Craft.
Q.--Why are they thus dedicated?
A.--The Bible is dedicated to God, because it is the inestimable gift of God to man, etc. (Prince Hall-California, EA degree, 1948, p. 111)
My Brother, on being brought to light in this degree, you discover both points of the compasses hid by the square, which is to signify that you are yet in darkness as respects Masonry, you having only received the degree of an Entered Apprentice. You also discover the three great lights of Masonry, by the help of the three lesser. The Three Great Lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, square, and compasses, which are thus explained: the Holy Bible is the rule and guide of our faith and practice; the square, to square our actions; the compasses, to circumscribe and keep us within bounds with all mankind but more especially with a brother Mason. (Prince Hall-California, EA degree, 1948, p. 20-21)
As a Mason, you are to regard the Holy Scriptures as the great light in your profession; they are the unerring standard of truth and justice; and you are to regulate your life and actions by the divine precepts therein contained. No institution was ever raised on better principles, or a more solid foundation than that of ours, which takes the Holy Bible as its cornerstone. (Prince Hall-California, EA Charge, 1948, p. 28)
Bro. _______, on being brought to light in Masonry, you beheld the three great lights by aid of the representatives of the three lesser. The three great lights in Masonry are the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses and are thus explained: The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide for our faith and practice, the Square to square our actions, and the compasses to circumscribe our desires, and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially the Brethren.
The three lesser lights are the Sun, Moon, and Master of the Lodge, and are thus explained: as the Sun rules the day, and the Moon governs the night, so should the Worshipful Master, with equal regularity, rule and govern the Lodge.
The representatives of the three lesser lights are three burning candles or tapers, placed in candle sticks or pedestals, situated East, West, and South. [Lights are turned on]
I particularly direct your attention to the Great Light in Masonry--the Holy Bible.
Howsoever men differ in creed or theology, all good men are agreed that within the covers of the H.B. are found those principles of morality which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life. Freemasonry, therefore, opens this Book upon its Altars, with the command to each of its votaries that he diligently study therein to learn the way to everlasting life. Adopting no particular creed, forbidding sectarian discussion within its Lodge rooms, encouraging each to be steadfast in the faith of his acceptance, Freemasonry takes all good men by the hand and leading them to its Altars, points to the open Bible thereon, and urges upon each that he faithfully direct his steps through life by the Light he there shall find as he there shall find it. If, from our Sacred Altars, the atheist, the infidel, the irreligious man, or the libertine, should be able to wrest this book of Sacred Law, and thus remove, or even obscure, the greatest Light in Masonry, that Light which for centuries has been the rule and guide of Freemasons, then could we no longer claim for ourselves the great rank and title of F. & A. Masons; but, as long as that Sacred Light shines upon our Altars, so long as it illuminates the pathway of the Craftsman by its golden rays of truth, so long, and no longer, can Freemasonry live and shed its beneficial influence upon mankind. Guard then, that Book of Sacred and Immutable Law as you would guard your very life. Defend it as you would the flag of your country. Live according to its Divine teachings, with its everlasting assurance of a blessed immortality. (Prince Hall-Virginia, EA degree, 1960, p. 46-48)
The three ***** ****** are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.
The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide of our faith and practice; the Square, to square our actions; and the Compasses, to circumscribe our desires, and keep our passions in due bounds with all mankind, especially with the brethren.
The Holy Writings, that great light in Masonry, will guide us to all truth; it will direct our paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to us the whole duty of Man. (Sickels, Ahiman Rezon, p. 65)
As the Bible is the first Great Light presented to a candidate, the following quotations from that inspired book are recommended to his previous perusal:
"Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?
"He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.
"He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor.
"In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoreth them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own heart, and changeth not.
"He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent." Psalm XV.
"Who shall ascend into the hills of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?
He that hath clean hands and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully."--Psalm XXIV, 3, 4.
"What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good?
"Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.
"Depart from evil and do good; seek peace, and pursue it."--Psalm XXXIV, 12-14.
Then let the candidate prepare himself to say:
"I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue; I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me."--Psalm XXXIX, 1.
"I will wash mine hands in innocency; so will I compass thine altar, O Lord."--Psalm XXVI, 6. (South Carolina Ahiman Rezon, 2010, p. 165-66)
The Holy Bible, the Great Light of Masonry, we entrust to your care. (South Carolina Ahiman Rezon, Installation of the Chaplain, 2010, p. 235)
The Holy Bible, the great light of Masonry, we intrust to your care. (South Carolina Ahiman Rezon, Installation of the Grand Chaplain, 2010, p. 244)
On being brought to light you beheld the three great lights of Masonry which are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses, also the representatives of the three lesser.
The Holy Bible is given us as the rule and guide of our faith and practice. (Tennessee Monitor, EA degree, 1953)
In following that great luminary of the Craft, the Holy Bible, we find the tower of Babel is built, and before its entire completion, by the will of the Divine Architect, the language of the builders is confounded and the people dispersed, all of which shows that, after the dispersion, they still carried with them the knowledge of Masonry, and improved it to a great degree of perfection. (John Dove, Virginia Text-Book, 1866, p. 16)
The Holy Bible, Square and Compasses, those inestimable lights of Free Masonry, are here again brought to view. (John Dove, Virginia Text-Book, 1866, p. 173)
Again the Craft are silent until the year 926 A. C., when Athelstane, the grandson of Alfred the Great, at the close of that memorable period, the Saxon Heptarchy, became the first anointed king of England, and feeling a deep and glowing interest in the Code of Laws above referred to, undertook, for the accomplishment of this holy purpose, to translate the Holy Bible, Hebrew and Greek, into the Saxon language. And having accomplished this Herculean task, he sought thereby to diffuse the rays of knowledge and wisdom from this, our Great Masonic Light, to every corner of the dark and benighted world. (John Dove, Virginia Text-Book, 1866, p. 308)
Upon all suitable occasions remind the Brethren that Masonry is founded upon the great moral principles set forth in the sacred volume which we receive as the rule and guide of our faith. Exhort them to govern themselves by these principles, as well with the world at large as with each other. Teach them to reverence the Three Great Lights, comprehending the Holy Bible, the perfect Square, and the extended Compasses, the beautiful symbolism of which is familiar to you, and the explanations of which include some of the most important duties inculcated in our Fraternity. (Washington Monitor, Charge to the Master, 1983, p. 80)
First, I present you with the Three Great Lights of Masonry: the Holy Bible, Square and Compasses.
The Bible, the Great Light of Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will direct your paths to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man. (Washington Monitor, WM installation, 1983, p. 100)
[Rev.] Brother _____, you have been appointed Chaplain of this Lodge. The Holy Bible [which is the chart and text-book of your sacred calling] is the Great Light of Masonry, and forever sheds its benignant rays upon every lawful assemblage of Free and Accepted Masons. From it we learn our duty to God, our neighbors and ourselves. Teach us from its life-giving precepts, and you will have faithfully fulfilled your sacred and important trust. It is fitting that an emblem of the sacred volume should be the jewel of your office, with which you will now be invested. (Washington Monitor, Chaplain installation, 1983, p. 105)
My brother, on being brought to light, you discovered before you the Three Great Lights in Masonry by the help of the three lesser. The Three Great Lights are the Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.
The Holy Bible is to rule and guide our faith; the Square to square our actions; and the Compasses to circumscribe and keep us within due bounds with all mankind, more especially with a brother Mason. (Wisconsin, EA degree, 1999, p. 41)
Worshipful Brother, the sacred position of Grand Chaplain has been entrusted to your care. The Holy Bible, which is the chart and text book of your sacred calling, is also the GREAT LIGHT of Masonry, and forever sheds its benignant rays upon every lawful assemblage of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons. Teach us from its life-giving precepts; intercede for us with that Divine Majesty which it so fully reveals and unfolds to us; and warn us by its lessons of infinite wisdom and truth, and you will have faithfully performed your sacred functions and fulfilled your important trust. (Wyoming, Grand Chaplain installation, 1922, p. 103)
Actually, it's been so long I really don't recall. It's been on here since at least '04 I'd guess. As I recall, I picked it up at a website offering free animated icons, but I've long since forgotten where.hello rev wayne, where did you get your avatar from?
"Freemasonry believes it is more holy to live by reason than to live by faith, for reason is a bridge of understanding while faith is only a bridge of hope. Reason challenges our minds, while faith might give comfort without achievement. Our mind is like unto God's, and man has a Godgiven obligation to use it to the benefit of his fellow man and to God's glory."
A Revelation of the Royal Secret, New Age Magazine, October, 1968
"The just shall live by faith" and "Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."
Romans 1:17, Hebrews 11:6
Ah yes, that eminent Masonic personality, "Harold J. Bolen," whose name, as far as I know, I just saw for the first time.o.f.f. said:According to Everett C. De Velde Jr. of The Presbytery of Ohio, "Bolen explains the meaning of several Masonic symbols in this essay (A Revelation of the Royal Secret). He attempts to show that the Zoroastrian god Ahura-Mazda, and the Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu and Siva, are really other names for the true God."
Abraham, according to ancient tradition, effected a reformation of religion among the Persians. There is no authentic history for this, but the Scriptures lead us to believe that he was a zealous reformer in his native country; and for this he seems to have been persecuted before, his call from the Lord.
Dr. Shuckford remarks, "The true reason of the Persians having beeu anciently recorded to have been of Abraham's religion seems to be this: as the fame of Abraham, and his opposing the Chaldeans in their corruptions and innovations, was spread far and near over all the East, and had reached even to India, so, very probably, all Persia was full of it; and the Persians not being then corrupted, as the Chaldeans were, but persevering in the true worship of the God of Heaven, for which Abraham was expelled Chaldea, might, upon the fame of his credit and reputation in the world, profess and take to deliver themselves down to posterity as professors of his religion, in opposition to those innovations which prevailed in Chaldea. The first religion, therefore, of the Persians, was the worship of the true God; and they continued in it for some time after Abraham was expelled Chaldea, having the same faith and worship as Abraham, except only in those points concerning which he received instruction after his going into Haran and Canaan." (The Christian's Penny Magazine, Vol. 94, March 22, 1834, p. 90)
Several translations have been made from the works of the Magians, obtained from their adherents in India. Among these the most considerable is the Zend-Avesta, attributed to Zoroaster; translated into French by M. Anquetil du Perron, 4to. 3 vols. Paris, 1771. More recently has been published at Bombay (in IS18), by Mulla Firas bin Kaus, the learned priest of the Parsee religion at Bombay, " The Desatir, or Sacred Writings of the ancient Persian Prophets, with an English Translation." Among these writings is one attributed to Zoroaster.[FONT='Arial','sans-serif'] [/font]Many excellent things are taught in these books, which direct that "prayer be made to light, or fire, not as being themselves deities, but as conveying the sacrifices to the Divine intelligence." (Ibid., p. 91)
"Defend Freemasonry on biblical grounds?" You really need to read the OP, you seem to have strayed a bit in your description of the purpose of the thread.This, and all of the other biblically solid Christian arguments posed on this forum against Freemasonry, calls into question anyone—especially one who claims to be a "Christian" pastor—that would start a thread on a Christian forum to defend Freemasonry on biblical grounds.
Deliberate liar? You dare make such accusations, after you post material that expresses one man's opinion, and try to paint it as "what Freemasonry teaches???"In the final analysis, any person who would defend Freemasonry knowing what they really teach, would be either a deliberate liar, a lunatic or simply a false teacher.
It is the creeping apostasy and sloppy exegesis, intentional or not, mixed with carnal or humanistic thinking, that has brought the abominable idea that Masonry is compatible with biblical Christianity;
Many professed, nominal Christians today, and obviously some pastors as well, just don't really care what the word of God says. They just want to be called "Christian" and live in harmony with the world, and be liked by the world. They are just too deceived to understand that this kind of peace with the world, is enmity with God.
Wayne said:You can't be serious? A publicized essay of one man's personal opinions, and you try to pass it off as "Freemasonry?"
Wayne said:This is the opinion of one Christian researcher...
Wayne said:I think you'd have to agree, the idea is ludicrous. Well, so is your idea that one Mason's opinions, expressed freely in ANY magazine, Masonic or otherwise, can be attributed to Masons in general.
Wayne said:Not everyone is Scottish Rite. In fact, I am not, for that very reason, its tendencies are much too prone to wandering speculations about other religions for my liking, and I have no interest in it. I find it ludicrous that anyone would even try to take Scottish Rite publications and try to make them out to be representative of all Masonry.
Wayne said:Besides, how in the world will anyone ever lead anyone else to Christ, if they never take the time necessary to make contact with them, or to establish the kind of relationships with them that are most conducive to discussions of the kind of depth it takes to share one's most deeply-held personal beliefs?
You are one man who publicizes his personal opinions and interpretation of Masonry and try to pass it off as "Freemasonry."
But you have the hypocritical audacity to object when someone else does the same thing.
This is one of your biggest problems, and an area where we are in strong disagreement. YOU accept anyone to be a Christian simply if they claim to be one. I do not accept them as such until I see the fruit they produce by their words and behavior. Jesus said, "you will know them by their fruit." If it is consistent with biblical Christianity, then and only then will I view them as a Christian.
SHUCKFORD, SAMUEL (d. 1754), historian, son of Samuel Shuckford of Palgrave, Suffolk, gent., was born at Norwich about 1694, and educated at the grammar schools of Norwich and Botesdale, Suffolk. From 1712 to 1719 he was scholar of Caius College, Cambridge, graduating B.A. in 1716 and M.A. in 1720, and subsequently obtaining the Lambeth degree of D.D. (Graduati Cantabr. 1823). He was ordained deacon on 16 June 1717, and priest on 28 Oct. 1718. In 1722 he was presented to the rectory of Shelton, Norfolk, which he resigned in 1746 (Blomefield, Hist. of Norfolk, v. 272). He held with it the living of Hardwick, and was also vicar of Seething and Mundham, Norfolk. He was instituted to the tenth prebend in the cathedral church of Canterbury on 21 March 1737–8 (Le Neve, Fasti, ed. Hardy, i. 59). Subsequently he obtained the living of All Saints, Lombard Street, London; and it is said that he was one of George II's chaplains. He died on 14 July 1754, and was buried in Canterbury Cathedral.
He was author of: 1. ‘The Sacred and Profane History of the World, connected from the creation of the world to the dissolution of the Assyrian empire at the death of Sardanapalus, and to the declension of the kingdom of Judah and Israel, under the reigns of Ahaz and Pekah,’ 2 vols. 1728, 8vo. This work was intended to serve as an introduction to Prideaux's ‘Connection;’ it was reprinted, 3 vols., London, 1731–40; 4 vols. London, 1743 seq.; London, 1754, 8vo; 4 vols. 1808, 8vo, edited by Adam Clarke; new edition, with ‘The Creation and Fall of Man,’ 2 vols. Oxford, 1810, 8vo; and another edition of both works with notes and analyses, by James Talboys Wheeler [q. v.], 2 vols. London, 1858, 8vo. 2. ‘The Creation and Fall of Man,’ London, 1753, 8vo.
Unless you are trying to establish a double-standard, that would include YOUR own personal opinion and interpretation of Freemasonry, which is what this thread is all about.
If you were to be honest about the matter (which you probably will not, if past history is any indication), you would recall that my comments along that line were in response to material that YOU posted, not me. And as I recall, the Pike material was posted by way of Pirtle, who falsified it by adding his own comments. All I did was clarify (1) Pirtle's source material, (2) Pirtle's addition that falsified the quote, and (3) what Pike was actually saying in the material quoted.You can't use a Scottish Rite publication (Pike's Morals & Dogma) and say in one instance its "our Masonry" and in another instance or Scottish Rite publication say its "not Masonry."
The Gospel of Love He sealed with His life. The cruelty of the Jewish Priesthood, the ignorant ferocity of the mob, and the Roman indifference to barbarian blood, nailed Him to the cross, and He expired uttering blessings upon humanity.
Dying thus, He bequeathed His teachings to man as an inestimable inheritance. Perverted and corrupted, they have served as a basis for many creeds, and been even made the warrant for in-tolerance and persecution. We here teach them in their purity. They ARE our Masonry; for to them good men of all creeds can subscribe.
Nor can you, pseudo-layman, despite how hard you tried to with this post.You can't have it both ways pseudo-pastor.
Most places of work these days have any of a number of forms of prohibition of such a practice. Places where this would be a possibility are minimal at best.Christians do it all the time, from leveraging their work relationships with non-believers on the job,
Just out of curiosity, how much of this do you actually engage in personally?to kindling relationships with non-Christians in their neighborhoods and community as those opportunities present themselves.
Nobody said or implied that they did. But it doesn't hurt either.They don't have to do it by joining a non-Christian, religiously pluralistic fraternity called Freemasonry.
Just an update: the FL GL training manuals which I had ordered by mail finally arrived today. They include the Mentor's Manual and the 8 Masonic Education booklets.I suppose, provided you are able to do what claim, and simply order and receive them.
As I already told you, they would not even sell them to me even though I provided Masonic identification as requested, because I do not reside in Florida. Naturally, since you live there, the residency issue would not come up.Just an update: the FL GL training manuals which I had ordered by mail finally arrived today. They include the Mentor's Manual and the 8 Masonic Education booklets.
As I noted, all one has to do is send in an order form with payment and the books show up. This tactic has worked in several jurisdictions.
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?
We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:
Do you accept cookies and these technologies?