Masonry is an ancient and respected order, with a long and storied history. It is a fraternity of men who have dedicated themselves to the pursuit of knowledge, morality, and virtue. The Masonic order is divided into several different rites, orders, and degrees, each with its own unique purpose and symbolism. The three standard Masonic degrees come from the Blue Lodges of Freemasonry.
These degrees are called Entering Apprentice, Fellow, and Master Mason. True to Masonic origins, the concept and names of each grade were adapted from the artisan guilds of the Middle Ages. A guide to Masonic ranks and the degree system of Masons. The Royal Sacred Arch in England and Wales is practiced as a separate degree, separate from artisanal Masonry. The Order of Mark, Master Masons and The Order of the Secret Monitor are also distinct from the three standard Masonic degrees.
The ancient and accepted rite of England and Wales, known colloquially as Rose Croix, is another example of a separate degree. Once a Mason has completed the three standard degrees, they can continue their studies through “attached Masonic bodies”, which offer even more ranks. These additional titles could be considered honorary, awarded to those Masons who have maintained constant and significant participation in the order. Examples of these attached bodies include the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, or the Sanctuary (among many others).The graduate apprentice degree provides an introduction to the Masonic order, in which candidates learn about the rituals, symbolism, and beliefs of Freemasonry. This means that a member with a 21st degree in the Scottish Rite has the same rank as someone with a third degree of brickwork. Masonic teachers are taught about virtue and morality, along with the duties and tools of a Mason teacher.
Among other things, members learn the language of Masonry, topics that should not be discussed in the lodge, and the actual responsibilities of the lodge. The status of any Mason can be identified by their title, which represents the steps they have taken from the lowest ranks to the highest degree of Masonic knowledge. These degrees are awarded based on merit and ability, although Masonic teachers cannot obtain these degrees without time or exams. This refers to the 33rd honorary degree awarded by the Scottish Rite, a Masonic organization that is an extension of Freemasonry. Masonry is an ancient tradition that has been passed down through generations. It is an organization that promotes knowledge, morality, and virtue among its members.
Through its various rites, orders, and degrees, it provides members with opportunities to further their understanding of Freemasonry and its teachings.
