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One of the great duties of Lodges
(and the Masons in those Lodges) is to provide sound Masonic education to newly
made Masons.
RECOMMENDED READINGS
One of the great duties of Lodges
(and the Masons in those Lodges) is to provide sound Masonic education to newly
made Masons.
If you see a book you want to order, click on the title, but to
do so you must be connected to the Internet.
BEGINNERS
Below is a list of highly recommended books
designed with the new Mason in mind and teaching the basics of Masonry.
A
Dictionary of Freemasonry by Robert Macoy / Hardcover
Here is a remarkable history, encyclopedia and symbolic dictionary of
Freemasonry all in one convenient volume and attractively illustrated with 300
nineteenth-century engravings. From Aaron, the Abelites, and the All-Seeing Eye
to the Year of Masonry, Zenith, and the Rite of Zinnendorf, this is a remarkable
book on a subject that runs through the course of human history. $12.99
A
Pilgrim's Path: Freemasonry and the Religious Right by John J. Robinson /
Hardcover
The author of Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry describes
the history and principles of the world's largest secret society, and then takes
on those who have condemned it, refuting their fabrications and misstatements.
An eye-opening book for those interested in the mysteries of Freemasonry--and
disturbed by the rise of the Fundamentalist Right. $19.95
Craft and
Its Symbols by Allen Roberts / Hardcover
This book has become a runaway Masonic best seller. It covers the symbolism and
the story behind the ritual of the Craft degrees. Southern California Research
Lodge, and many others presents it to Entered Apprentices. It is a presentation
volume and takes the initiate through the ceremonies of initiation to the
meaning of the Master Mason degree. It's MUST reading. It explains the meanings
of the initiation ceremonies the newly raised Master Mason has just gone
through. The wife of a master mason will gain an understanding of the new
avenues opening for a better and fuller life for the entire family. If you are a
non-Mason who has heard about Freemasonry, but wants to know more about the
Fraternity and its teachings before you petition, this book is must reading.
Bound to resemble a Lambskin Apron. $12.50
Selected
Masonic Writings by Joseph Fort Newton; Robert Freke Gould; Theodore
Roosevelt; J.C. Penny & others / Paperback
These collected writings from very rare & out of print early editions of
"The New Age" magazine contain priceless essays from the powerful pens
of Robert Freke Gould; Joseph Fort Newton; Oswald Wirth; Theodore Roosevelt; Ray
Baker Harris; Charles Lobingier; William Boyden & J.C. Penny. It is a
treasure of Masonic literature which is sure to please anyone interested in
Masonry. $4.95
Coil's
Masonic Encyclopedia by Henry Wilson Coil, Allen E. Roberts, ed. / Hardcover
Henry Wilson Coil's "Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia" is the most up to
date of Masonic Encyclopedias. This second edition, edited in 1996 by the late
Allen Roberts, it is a treasure trove of important Masonic information and
features over 1750 articles. No serious Masonic student should be without this
book. $69.50
The
History of Freemasonry: The Legendary Origins by Albert G. Mackey /
Hardcover
An in-depth study of one of the world's most controversial and select
organizations traces the history of Freemasonry, profiles some of its leading
members; and discusses its rituals and tenets. Beautifully bound with gold trim.
A true coffee table book. $19.99
The
Lost Keys of Freemasonry by Manly P. Hall, J. Augustus Knapp (Illustrator) /
Paperback
Also known as The Secret of Hiram Abiff, this text was written for the Mason and
non-Mason alike. Mr. Hall, himself an honorary 33 Mason, reveals the profounder
aspects of this ancient Fraternity which has been a source of inspiration to so
many individuals through the centuries. The basic symbolism of the three degrees
of the Blue Lodge is explained and a chapter entitled "The Egyptian
Initiate" is especially enlightening. Illustrated by J. Augustus Knapp.
$12.95
Masonic trivia (and
facts) by Allen E. Roberts / Hardcover
Within Masonic Trivia (and Facts) is more information than will be found between
two covers, with the exception of an encyclopedia. The more than 600 questions
and answers covers the story of Freemasonry from its earliest days to the
present. Here the reader will meet many world leaders, men who worked an pleaded
for men and women to support and love one another. From Aberdeen to the Ziegfeld
Follies the answers to hundreds of questions will be found. The
"mysteries" of the oldest fraternal organization in the world are
uncovered many of them for the first time. Here the reader will find there are
actually no secrets in Freemasonry. The comprehensive index will make it easy to
find any subject or person quickly. $18.95
The
Boy Who Cried Wolf: The Book That Breaks Masonic Silence by Richard P. Thorn
/ Hardcover
As the religious right spreads its influence throughout the U.S., it is
inevitable that some of its more provocative speakers should tread on the toes
of other groups, both religious and nonreligious. In Thorn's case, the
fundamentalists have met their match. Thorn attacks the critics of Masonry,
showing where they err in their assumptions and providing some good insights
into the nature of the Masons' "secret" society. He also draws on his
own fundamentalist background to explain the theology behind the fundamentalist
statements. Thorn acknowledges that he may not change anyone's mind, but he
feels that Masonry stands at a crucial point and that its future may depend on
how it meets the fundamentalist attack. This book is recommended for those
interested in the influence and place of religion in the world. $18.95
A
New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry /2 Vols in 1 by Arthur Edward Waite /
Hardcover
Waite provides his view of the history, literature, and myths surrounding
Freemasonry. Comprehensive explanations are included of their secret rituals and
symbolism, such as alchemy, astrology, Kabbalism, ceremonial magic, and animal
magnetism. $14.99
Black Square and
Compass: 200 Years of Prince Hall Freemasonry by Joseph A. Walkes, Jr. /
Hardcover
Joseph A. Walkes, Jr.'s "Black Square and Compass" is a well-written
and highly valuable work on Prince Hall Masonry. Included are many rare
reproductions of valuable Masonic documents and a wealth of well researched and
clearly presented information. A highly recommended book. $16.95
The Builders: A Story
and Study of Freemasonry by Joseph F. Newton / Hardcover
An outstanding classic in Masonic literature offering the early history of
Freemasonry and an exposition of the faith of Masonry. $21.95
The Grand Design
by Wallace McLeod / Hardcover
A wealth of knowledge is imparted in this collection of addresses and articles
by a master storyteller. They range from the days of scrolls to this computer
age. "This is a book that had to be published," wrote Allen E. Roberts
in his Foreword. "It brings to life a philosophy that can be found nowhere
else." It also brings under one cover invaluable information that should be
preserved for the ages. It includes three "how to" chapters: for
writers and for researchers. It then tells the reader how to expand on the
discoveries of the author. McLeod is well aware that research is a never ending
mission. Within these pages one finds an excellent record of the Old Charges,
the documents on which the teachings of Freemasonry are based. It will be
difficult, if not impossible, to find a more complete account of these tomes
from the distant past. Hard Cover $19.95
ADVANCE
For those Masons with a deeper interest in the history and/or
philosophy of Masonry, the following Masonic books are offered to inspire and
further guide you on your path of Masonic education.
The
Secret Teachings of All Ages by Manly P. Hall, J. Augustus Knapp
(Illustrator) / Hardcover / Published 1999
Simply put, this is the most beautiful and complete occult book ever published.
It represents a lifetime of research into the mythology, symbolism, and magical
practices of countless cultures. From the secrets of Isis to the teachings of
mystic Christianity, nearly every occult dogma imaginable is represented here.
The book is full of giant illustrations, some of which fold out into a
magnificent two-page splendor. This is the definitive guide to secret societies,
famous figures, and more a must for every personal library. $189.95
Prince
Hall: Social Reformer by Arthur Diamond, Nathan I. Huggins (Editor) /
Library Binding
A summary of the life and career of the Afro-American social reformer.$19.95
The
Origins of Freemasonry: Scotland's Century, 1590-1710 by David Stevenson /
Paperback
The question of Freemasonry's origins and history prior to the establishment of
the Grand Lodge of England in 1717 is such a morass of speculation, supposition,
and wishful thinking that professional historians - Stevenson included - feel
the need to justify their researches in this subject lest they be tainted by its
disrepute among their fellows. Against such a background this book really stands
out. Stevenson bases his research on actual records of almost a hundred Scottish
Masonic lodges that date from the 1600's, along with municipal records, other
guilds' records, diaries, and royal statutes. $22.95
Ancient
Mystic Rites by Charles Webster Leadbeater / Paperback
Explores the ancient Egyptian influence upon modern Freemasony. Discusses the
history of the A.A.S.R. and it's predecessor, the Rite of Perfection. $14.00
Revolutionary
Brotherhood: Freemasonry and the Transformation of the American Social Order,
1730-1840 by Steven C. Bullock / Hardback
Steven Bullocks traces Freemasonry through its first century in America. He
follows the order from its origins in Britain and its introduction into North
America in the 1730s to its near-destruction by a massive anti-Masonic movement
almost a century later and its subsequent reconfiguration into the brotherhood
we know today. $49.95
Freemasonry
in the 21st Century by Don Bradley, Linda Darger (Illustrator) / Paperback
An in-depth study of the authors interpretations of practices and rituals
necessary to advance through the first three Initiations of Freemasonry. Not a
historical piece, but an interesting blow-by-blow of how the rituals are
structured and their effects upon the inner bodies of the candidate. $14.95
The
Concise History of Freemasonry by Robert F. Gould / Paperback
Contents: Ancient Mysteries, Essenes, Roman Colleges, Culders, Vehm-Gerichte,
Steinmetzen, French Corps D Etat, Companionage, Rosicrucians; Medieval Operative
Masonry; English Laws of the Middle Ages & the Freemasons; Story of the
Guild; Legend of the Craft; Early Scottish Craft; Great Division in English
Masonry; Concise Notice of the Additional Degrees Usually Worked; Freemasonry in
Europe; Asia, East India Islands, Far East, Africa, West Indies, Central &
South America; USA, Canada & Australaisa. $24.95
Encyclopedia
of Freemasonry by Albert G. Mackey / Paperback
This book is so absorbing you could sit and read it from cover to cover. It also
serves as a handy reference guide for most any Masonic question that may arise.
$75.00
Freemasonry in
American History by Allen E. Roberts / Hardback
Allen Roberts has taken the history of Freemasonry and the history of the United
States and woven them tightly together. He hasn't fallen into any of the traps
which so many inexperienced Masonic historians do, such as trying to make our
Fraternity the prime mover of all that is good in our country. He has worked the
history of Freemasonry into the actual history of the United States. This book
is not a history, written by a historian for other historians. It is an easily
readable book about Freemasonry, written by a Freemason for the benefit of other
Freemasons. This book is valuable to the Masonic student and will become more
valuable in the years to come. It is valuable to the general reader and to the
newly made mason who wishes to receive more light about the Order to which he
belongs. $29.50
Mackeys
Jurisprudence of Freemasonry by Albert G. Mackey / Hardcover
An excellent quick reference source of the written and unwritten laws, rules and
regulations of Freemasonry. Especially important for its treatment of landmarks
and Ancient Constitutions. Covers the Law for Lodges, for Candidates, for
Individuals and for Grand Lodges. $16.50
House Undivided: The
Story of Freemasonry & the Civil War by Allen E. Roberts / Hardcover
Learn a unique historical account of Freemasonry during the 1860's and its
impact on the Civil War. $22.95
Freemasonry:
A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol by W. Kirk MacNutly / Paperback
The historical illustrations of Masonic tracing boards are a rare find, and the
incorporation of Jungian psychological principles into an explanation of the
Blue Lodge degrees made quite fascinating reading. 133 illustrations. $16.95
Some
Deeper Aspects Of Masonic Symbolism by Stephen Dafoe, Arthur Edward Waite
(Editor) / Paperback
Long out of print, Arthur Edward Waite's "Some Deeper Aspects of Masonic
Symbolism" is a must read for those Freemasons interested in a better
understanding of the Masonic degrees that make up the Craft Lodge of Masonry.
Waite covers such topics as, the meaning of initiation, the Third Degree, the
Christian Mysteries, Operative Masonry, The Old Charges and a host of other
topics. Also included in this small volume is "An Appreciation of Arthur
Edward Waite" by Joseph Fort Newton and an afterward by Stephen Dafoe on
the importance of Pythagorean Symbolism in Masonry unique to this volume.
Templar Books is pleased to bring this lecture by the late Arthur Edward Waite
to the Masonic Fraternity once again. $5.95
OTHER BOOKS
The
Trial of the Templars by Malcolm Barber / Paperback
A detailed account of the ordeal of the French Templars--arrested, tried and
executed from 1307-1314 for heretical crimes during the Inquisition. Although
their confessions were extracted under torture, a number of the brothers
survived to defend their Order until 1314. $13.95
The
Hiram Key by Christopher Knight, Robert Lomas (Contributor) / Hardcover
Using analyses of ancient Egyptian records, the Old and New Testaments, early
Christian and Rabbinical texts, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the rituals of
Freemasonry, Knight and Lomas have assembled a startling and controversial book
which shows the original Jerusalem Church to be a political device for
establishing control, and the Bible to be far from literal truth. 16 plates.
$24.95
The
Lost Treasure of the Knights Templar by Steven Sora / Paperback / Published
1999
Fascinating occult detective work linking the Cathars, the Scottish Masons, and
Renne-le-Chateau to the elusive treasure pit on Oak Island. Draws on new
evidence recently unearthed in Italy, France, and Scotland to provide a
compelling solution to one of the world's most enduring mysteries. $16.95
The
Second Messiah by Christopher Knight, Robert Lomas / Paperback
One hundred years ago, an amateur was allowed to photograph the Shroud of Turin.
The negatives he produced of that famous image captivated the Christian world
and strengthened their belief that it carried the imprint of Christ's face and
body. In The Second Messiah, authors Knight and Lomas, who are Freemasons, build
a meticulous case against this theory. $16.95
The
Temple and the Lodge by Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh (Contributor) /
Paperback
From the authors of the bestseller, Holy Blood, Holy Grail, comes a new
book on the origins of Freemasonry. Its mysterious beginnings in the fourteenth
century through currents of thought and political upheavals surrounding it in
seventeenth-and eighteenth-century Europe are charted. "Compelling...sane
and informed...Written with gripping academic-detective style."--TorontoStar.
36 black-and-white photographs. $13.95
The
Dead Sea Scrolls Deception by Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh (Contributor) /
Paperback
Through a careful study of the scrolls, historical analysis,and interviews with
scholars, the authors establish a view of Christianity that challenges the
Church's adamantly defended "facts." $14.00
Dungeon
Fire and Sword by John J. Robinson / Hardcover
Robinson's fascination with the military monastic order organized by a band of
knights in the aftermath of the First Crusade and originally dedicated to the
protection of pilgrims in the Holy Land continues. Here, he sets out to recount
the Knights' role as trained warriors and, eventually, as international bankers
during the nearly 200 years from Pope Urban II's call for the First Crusade in
1095 through the last Crusaders' abandonment of the Holy Land in 1291. $23.96
The
History of the Knights Templars by Charles G. Addison, David Hatcher
Childress (Introduction) / Paperback
This book is full of history of the Order of the Knights Templar. Addison goes
into some deep history of the Templars and the times they lived in right up to
the supression of the order. He also sets up a basis for the belief that the
Templars did not all 'go away' after their supression but lived on in countries
where Phillip and Pope Clement V could not touch them. This book is great to
start on your journey to find the truth about this order of Knights. $16.95
Born
in Blood by John J. Robinson / Hardcover
This is a very popular historical fantasy book which weaves a wonderful story
involving the Knights Templar, Freemasons and the Catholic Church. A highly
entertaining work perfect for those quite evening when an exciting book is
valued reward. Don't get caught up in expecting an accurate account of history
and you will thoroughly enjoy this work. $22.46
Emblematic
Freemasonry, by Arthur E. Waite. Mr. Waite is the author of many books on
mysticism as well as Freemasonry. He gives a sometimes unique view as to the
origins of Freemasonry and its symbology.
Magnum
Opus: Or the Great Work: The Complete Ritual Work of the Scottish Rite of
Freemasonry, by Albert Pike.
Morals
and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, by
Albert Pike.
A
New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry: Their Rights, Literature, and History, by
Arthur Edward Waite. Mr. Waite is the author of many books on mysticism as well
as Freemasonry. He gives a sometimes unique view as to the origins of
Freemasonry and its symbology.
Twice
Told Tales: A Masonic Reader, by L. Helms. Although many of the conclusions
reached by this author are based solely on Masonic sources such as Mackey and
Coil, this is a great book for the Lodge Education Officer. Many of the myths
that have grown up around Freemasonry are explored. The chapters are short,
informative, and to the point.
A Comprehensive View
of Freemasonry, Henry Wilson Coil, 1973
Freemasonry: A
Celebration of the Craft, John Hamill and R. A. Gilbert (ed.), 1992
Freemasonry Through Six
Centuries, Henry Wilson Coil, 1966
Freemasons' Guide and
Compendium, Bernard E. Jones, 1950, 1956
Masonic Membership of
the Founding Fathers, Ronald E. Heaton, 1965
Masonic World Guide,
Kent Henderson, 1984
Miracle
at Philadelphia, Catherine Drinker Bowen, 1966
Key to Freemasonry's
Growth, Allen E. Roberts, 1969
The Clergy and the Craft,
Forrest D. Haggard, 1970
The
Early Masonic Catechisms, Douglas Knoop, G. P. Jones, & Douglas Hamer,
1953, 1963
The Freemason at Work,
Harry Carr, 1976
The Master's Book,
Carl H. Claudy, 1935
The Mystic Tie,
Allen E. Roberts, 1991
The Pocket History of
Freemasonry, Fred L. Pick & G. Norman Knight, 1953
The Rise and Development
of Organized Freemasonry, Roy A. Wells, 1986
Tied
to Masonic Apron Strings, Stewart M. L. Pollard, 1969
William Preston and His
Work, Colin Dyer, 1987
Whither Are We
Traveling?, Dwight L. Smith, 1962
Workman Unashamed,
Christopher Haffner, 1989
World Freemasonry: An
Illustrated History, John Hamill & R. A. Gilbert, 1991
10,000 Famous Freemasons,
William R. Denslow, 1957
The following list of books also provides a basis for the study of
Freemasonry. Sorry no links. You may find them through Amazon.com
Introduction to Freemasonry by Harry L. Haywood
Pocket-sized, less than 80 pages, easy reading, but will answer many of your
questions about the origin and purpose of Masonry; the three degrees, the Side
Orders, world Masonry.
Introduction to Freemasonry by Carl Claudy
Answers to the simple elementary inquires of the new brother to whom all of
Masonry is strange. Examines each of the three degrees in detail.
The Newly-Made Mason by Harry L. Haywood
What he and every Mason should know about Masonry. Readable, concise,
comprehensive. Covers briefly but adequately the origin, history, philosophy,
symbolism, organization and operation of the Masonic Order.
Masonic Symbolism
Masonic Symbolism by Charles Clyde Hunt
Fifty-nine informative studies and interpretations of many Masonic symbols.
Simple and readable, dependable, thorough, sound in interpretation, inspiring.
What Does Freemasonry
Teach?
A Modern Mason Examines His Craft by L. C. Helms
Balancing the facts and fiction that seem to surround Freemasonry. A short book
designed to clarify and make salient aspects of the Craft more easily
understood.
The Great Teachings of Masonry by Harry L. Haywood
What is it all about? What is it trying to do? How did it come to be? What are
its central and permanent teachings?
Freemasonry: Its Hidden Meaning by George H. Steinmetz
The lectures and symbols are carefully and systematically examined so that the
reader can really understand them.
A Little About the
Ritual
Six Hundred Years of Craft Ritual by Harry Carr
The development of our Masonic Ritual. Impressive documentation, absorbing
style.
A Commentary on the Freemasonic Ritual by E. H. Cartwright
Like the above, this is from England. Harry Carr said of this one: "No one
has written anything better in this particular field".
Some Famous Masons
Famous Masons and Masonic Presidents by Harry L. Haywood
Interesting reading on this fascinating subject.
Brother Truman by Allen Roberts
A carefully researched book into the character and moral fiber of Harry S.
Truman, President and Freemason.
George Washington: Master Mason by Allen Roberts
Of the many books written about George Washington, this is one of the few which
approaches the man from a human interest standpoint.
Freemasonry in History
A Comprehensive View of Freemasonry by Henry W. Coil
A brief but comprehensive view of Freemasonry from the earliest historical
record to the present day.
What is Freemasonry
Is It True What They Say About Freemasonry? by Art de
Hoyos and S. Brent Morris
A historical and critical look at the arguments and tactics of anti-Masons.
RECOMMENDED MAGAZINE SUBCRIPTIONS
Masonic Service Association of North America
8120 Fenton Street
Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785
http://www.msana.com
Publishes The Short Talk Bulletin and other Masonic pamphlets. Back issues of
bulletin available on many topics. Subscription to The Short Talk Bulletin: $5
per year.
Masonic Book Club
P. O. Box 1563
Bloomington, Illinois 61702
Publishes one book each year. These are generally reprints of out of print books
plus other books and pamphlets of historical interest.
Volume no. 30 to be published in 2000 A.D. Membership limited to 1500.
The Philalethes Society
P. O. Box 70
Highland Springs VA 23075-0070
http://www.freemasonry.org
Publishes an excellent magazine, The Philalethes, covering Masonic topics.
Membership: 1st year $40.00 - Subsequent years $30.00.
Ars Quatuor Coronatorum
The transactions of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076, London, England.
Generally recognized as the premier research lodge of the world.
Scottish Rite Research Society. Washington.
Publishes The Plumbline (Quarterly pamphlet) and Heredom (yearly transactions of
society.).
Scottish Rite Journal (publication of Scottish Rite -
Southern Jurisdiction).
Knight Templar (monthly publication for York Rite Masons).
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