Duncan's Ritual of Freemasonry

I find this book to be an interesting little conundrum: certainly one would think that the author would have been guilty of violating that part of their obligation to “not print, paint, stamp, [etc.]” the secrets of Freemasonry (see page 34 of the present volume), but I am very glad he did so. As a Masonic writer and researcher, it is my desire to discuss the rituals of Masonry with the general population, but as a Freemason myself, I am bound under a similar obligation to not reveal the particulars of the ritual with which I was initiated. This little book is the answer to that paradox! Those who know will recognize this as an authentic Masonic ritual which, though being outdated and somewhat archaic, retains the morals and flavor of the modern Work. On the other hand, it reveals significant differences from that of my jurisdiction, allowing me to reference and quote passages of ritual without going back on my word. In fact, although it all has the same general content, even the specifics of modern Masonic ritual vary greatly between territories (such as states or countries, each of which potentially having a different Grand Lodge that has jurisdiction over the area) meaning that this ritual--all rituals in fact, even the one I am familiar with--would not be universally applicable as Masonic Tradition requires that the ritual must conform to that of the local Grand Lodge and be as word-perfect as humanly possible. (Don’t believe me? Read page 147 of the present volume.) Thus, one could rightly deduce that this book would be useless for someone trying to impersonate a Freemason or gain admission into a lodge without being initiated. Indeed, modern technology allows us to keep detailed records and provide written proof of membership which the pretender will be conspicuously without (I have personally barred such imposters from lodge for this very reason). Furthermore, it is thus also useless for Masons who want to better learn their own ritual. It is my own personal belief that the Masonic Work should remain as much of an oral tradition as the modern sensibility will allow. As is evidenced by performers, the vast majority of humanity has the potential to memorize ponderous amounts of data with a high level of accuracy, but with the ready availability of books and computers, we rarely do so. But how empowering is it, both exoterically and esoterically, to succeed in this task! In conclusion, I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the history of the ritual of Freemasonry and to members who would like to quote it without breaking their obligation. To me, it is a Godsend! I would also recommend it to anyone who is related to a Mason and wants to better understand that man’s involvement in the order. Concerning the Dover edition: as is my general experience with this publisher, it is sufficiently well-produced and affordable, making it similarly recommended.

Facts, Who does What, Why, Answers to Questions, The story behind the questions and the reasons for the answers. A very interestering read, deep history ties and so many branches to this tree. This will not only keep you going till the last page but you will be looking for some of the foot notes to read as well. It is like pulling on thread, but isn't that what education is all about?

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A nice ritual book

This variation on Masonic monitors was dated even for its day, and is most interesting for the inevitable differences found across geographic areas at that time. It's still an interesting read and several of the illustrations are unique. Masons will find the differences with today's ceremonies mildly distracting. At the same time I was impressed how the overall feel has been maintained over time. Even more valued to me is that the reader is given the opportunity to understand the reasons for the symbols and ritual. For the interested non-Mason I think you'll find interesting insights into ceremonies that are intended to bring men together for common cause. It's easy for many to focus on the details of the ceremonies as outlined in Monitors like this. But do some comparative reading with this text and you'll appreciate the psychology of self-discovery through fraternity with good people. One good subject for comparative reading is Simon's Standard Masonic Monitor. I very much encourage casual readers to this text. Scholars are encouraged to seek out original editions provided by credentialed antiquarian bookdealers.

Great book to learn all of the rituals of the Freemasons, unlike others, I believe this is perfect for the person whom wants to become a mason and learn more of the rituals. I couldn't say whether this is a good book for the already initiated, because I have not yet gotten that far. I recommend this to any aspiring mason! Perfect pocket sized book, small text though!

The book is smaller than expected, not in thickness but in height and width. I bought it for as a gift for my husband who is about to take his Master Mason Degree and he said the size is pretty typical for Masonic books. He is very pleased with it and says it is what he wanted. Apparently it is to do with the York right and goes up to the Royal Arch. Good buy, he says I got it for a really good price too. It definitely put a smile on his face and hopefully will help him towards his Master Mason Degree and to decide if he wants to do the York right degrees.

Excellent

This book was much smaller in size than expected. Poor quality paper with low contrast printing.

a good book to research old rituals

THIS BOOK IS IDEAL FOR ANY FREEMASON WHO HAS RECENTLY WENT THROUGH THEIR DEGREES. IT IS A FANTASTIC WAY OF LOOKING BACK AT WHAT YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED. IT'S ALSO A GREAT ITEM FOR REFERENCE. I CAN'T RECOMMEND IT ENOUGH. . . . S. & F.

Very good

Explains the rituals of Freemasonry from grades Entered Apprentice to Royal Arch. Though not a Freemason myself, I find it interesting. I think many people would find it boring however.