Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol

by W. Kirk MacNulty

Book Overview

This title explores the origins, development, rituals, and symbolism of Freemasonry, and examines Freemasonry as part of a tradition of Western mysticism going back to the Middle Ages.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0500810370
• ISBN13: 9780500810378
• Release Date: September 1991
• Publisher: Thames & Hudson
• Length: 96 Pages
• Weight: 0.92 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 8.0" x 11.0"

Customer Reviews

Most coherent rational discourse of Freemasonry available

One of the most coherent, rational discourses of Freemasonry available to the modern reader. This text is the intellectual compliment to W. M. Wilmshurst's emotional text "Meaning of Masonry".This will probably prove to be a timeless text for Freemasons and non-Masons alike. It is an important book on my shelf, no trivial statement given that I am a long-time collector and dealer in antiquarian texts.Masonry has been a target of fearful people for many years. From the politically motivated Anti-Mason Party of the early 19th century to the hysterical and sometimes financially venal attacks from self-styled "Christians" still occurring today. MacNulty reminds us that before there was psychology there were The Mysteries, and that even in the distant past these ceremonies were not about religion but about making one's self a better more competent human being.Too many Masons, and non-Masons for that matter, step through the rituals of their life and accept the symbols of their world without consciously reflecting on their purpose.This is not wrong by itself - the intent of Freemasonry is self-discovery by fraternity with other motivated good men. As Freemasons we are charged to serve a portion of our time supporting our families, a portion serving God, and a portion to master our weaknesses and understanding our strengths. The Mysteries like Freemasonry are intended to do this last thing, to make ourselves better men.MacNulty reminds us that conscious reflection means we discover and improve our physical selves faster. That the ceremonies and symbols of Freemasonry represent parts of our conscious and subconscious. When we learn from mistakes, we avoid making them again. When we learn to pace ourselves, we make the world better for those around us. As men what we most owe to our families is a better man. The atheist realizes the value of this conscious effort, and the religious man remembers that God has charged us to rise to Him and Freemasonry can help us serve Him. If we choose to see.I recommend taking this book down at least once or twice a year. Remember our charge: learn to subdue our passions, learn to be better men.

Absolutely fantastic!

This is a very short book but it is correspondingly deep. Out of ninety-five pages there are only thirty-two pages of text, the rest of the book is composed of pictures of various Masonic artifacts, paintings and prints. This section of pictures is used to illustrate the first thirty-two-page section. The theories about the teachings of Freemasonry that MacNulty expresses in this book are of a very deep, psychological and metaphysical nature. He ties Masonry to "the mysteries", a set of practices that sought to penetrate the mystery of human nature and give the practitioners a greater insight into themselves, all with an orientation toward the Deity. This system can be traced throughout the history of western civilization and seems to have developed in some way or another into modern Freemasonry. As the author explains himself and the meaning of various Masonic rituals and symbols in connection with these "mysteries" it all begins to make sense. I have been an active Freemason for almost twenty years and I learned a great deal from this book. Things I never really thought about were explained to me for the first time and after reading this book I feel like a much more knowledgeable member of the Craft. I really don't know if any of this book will make sense to the non-Mason, unless one has a tremendous background in psychology. Most Masons will have some problems following everything MacNulty is saying but they will pick up enough to say, "I never thought about it that way." I know it worked that way with me and even though I'm sure I missed some things, I learned a lot. Definitely a book for what the author refers to as Masons of a philosophical bent.

The best explanation of the higher meaning behind the ritual

If you read this book you will have more understanding of the original MEANING of Freemasonry and Masonic ritual than 90% of actual modern Freemasons. It is well explained in this short, well written, and beautifully illustrated book what all the symbolism of the First, Second, and Third degrees were actually intended to mean. This is because the author is as well versed in the mystery religions and sacred architecture of classical times as were the founders of the Craft. Indeed you come to realise that there is a comprehensive and satisfying overview of universal spiritual wisdom in these rituals, of the self, soul, and spirit (the three Principle Officers.) This is not trivial stuff. Indeed, it is pointed out that the ultimate goal of the Third Degree is to actually die to one's self and be reborn. This was also the end goal of the old Mystery Religions- and of any spiritual path worthy of the name. There are no "secrets" revealed here. The only secrets are those found in your own soul after deep introspection. But these rituals do point the way, and this booklet does prepare your mind on the proper path. If you would contemplate profound, mind-expanding truths that will move you closer to the universal architect and his creation, then this is your book. If you are primarily interested in fancy rings, funny hats, and go-carts, then perhaps you should look elsewhere.

Wonderful Pictures, Trestle Boards and "Tools of the trade"

If you are a Freemason, or are even remotely interested in the subject, you should own this book....if, for no other reason than the fact that this book contains many, many full-color, full-page pictures & other graphics, such as Craft Symbolism, the "Tools" of the Craft, Trestle Boards, etc. This book also contains an overview of Freemasonry, including some of the esoteric aspects of The Craft--even mentioning the Hermetic axiom: "As Above, So Below." I honestly believe all Masons should own books like this--esp., since so many still believe in the outdated concept of not talking about Masonry....even to their own sons and daughters...or, Wives. Leave this book lying around your den or on the coffee table. I keep my copy on the top shelf of my Masonic Research Bookshelf, beside "Duncans Ritual" (collectors edition), The Holy Bible and my Masonic antique items. It really sets-off my little shrine to Masonry! This book has more pictures than you can shake a level at....so, stop twirling your compass and get out your credit card!

Graphic Mastery

The graphics are inspiring and meaningful to all true Masons.However, you should carefuly study the text as well. I would recommend this to all good and faithful Masons as something to be lifted up and studied carefully. J.Chapin PM Maugus Hill Lodge AF & AM Natick, MA