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Many of our practices today are believed to have emanated from ancient Masonic usages; others can be traced after the amalgamation of different independent lodges particularly in England, where the first GrandLodge was organized in 1717. Through the years, changes, modifications and regulations were made, and passed on from generation to generation of Lodges and Grand Lodges throughout the world. [read more]
For many years, the Ark of the Covenant containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments stood on a tabernacle in the city of David also known as Zion. After King David's death his son Solomon fulfilled his father’s wish to build a temple as the Ark’s permanent repository. From biblical accounts many interpretations of the Temple have been made. However, the lack of factual information made early efforts in the 19th century almost exclusively artistic until Biblical Archeology became a serious field of study in the 20th century. The extensive research work of Dr. Paul Leslie Garber in this area had made possible a reconstructed model of the Temple done in collaboration with professional model maker Mr. E.G. Howland. [read more] |
A symbol is also a sign, and the words sign and symbol are especially synonymous in their Masonic connection. The symbols of Masonry are the signs which guide the traveler along his journey through life and point to his destination. It is with a certain satisfaction and joy that we find these signs or symbols which point out the right road to travel and mark our moral and spiritual progress--much the-same as the signs along the way, marked the pilgrim's progress in former times. [read more]
It has been well said that if we hope to impress fundamental truths upon the candidates, we cannot leave the observance of our laws to their voluntary determination. And, also, that if we succeed in so interesting but one Brother that he will read and study Masonry, dig and delve in Masonic lore, and teach and practice its principle in his everyday life, we have accomplished more humanity than by pinning buttons and emblems on a hundred and making them Masons in name only. [read more] |