Book Review – English Illuminati

A more commercially minded publisher would have titled this Final Secret of the Illuminati.

Whether that’s accurate or not, this book gives us a deep look into the European occult revival of the late nineteenth century and some of its key figures—practically all of whom were connected to the Theosophical Society. 

English Illuminati: Including the History of the Order of the Illuminati and the Mysteries of the Illuminati

by Alistair Lees

Lewis Masonic (2019)
English
Hardcover: ‎ 232 pages
ISBN: ‎ 978-0853185451

Reviewed by Richard Smoley

This review was originally published in Quest: Journal of the Theosophical Society in America. Reproduced with permission.

The story starts in 1776, when Adam Weishaupt, a law professor at the University of Ingolstadt in Bavaria, started a quasi-Masonic secret society called the Illuminati.

The society’s goal, among others, was to promote liberal ideals in an age when monarchy and ecclesiastical dominance were crumbling rapidly.

These aims did not suit the Elector of Bavaria, who had the organization shut down only a decade later, in 1786.

But he failed to extinguish rumors about the Illuminati, and in the subsequent decades, authors such as the Abbé Barruel and John Robison blamed them for the French Revolution and related social unrest.

Twentieth-century conspiracy theorists asserted that the Illuminati were a secret elite bent on world domination. (You can draw your own conclusions about these claims.)

In 1880, a German esotericist named Theodor Reuss tried to revive Weishaupt’s Illuminati. 

NAME

Theodor_Reuss

He succeeded for a couple of decades.

In 1900, he even managed to interest William Wynn Westcott, an English physician, Mason, and Theosophist (best known as cofounder of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn), into creating an English branch.

This volume centers on the rituals for the English Illuminati, which Westcott had translated and adapted from Reuss’s rituals.

These papers had been buried unknown for decades in the archives of the British Masonic organization Societas Rosicruciana in Anglia, but were accidentally discovered by author Alistair Lees.

In this volume, Lees publishes the papers, along with a fascinating array of other material about the ins and outs of the Masonic organizations, lodges, and degrees that proliferated at the time.

In the end, nothing came of the English Illuminati project. In a 1902 letter to Reuss, Westcott wrote;

“The Illuminati system as a whole may suit your country, but I could not work it here.”

Lees explains:

“England did not traditionally have such a rich tapestry of haut-grade or high grade orders and rites such as Europe had enjoyed for the previous three hundred years.”

This, at any rate, is a bare-bones account of the panoply of figures, degrees, organizations, charters, and paraphernalia that appear in this book.

It is ideally not for beginners but for those who already have some basic idea of these figures and their milieu.

Readers interested in Masonic history will find it most valuable.

For others, one of the most useful sections is Reuss’s history of the Illuminati, which he portrays not as;

“a new creation of this man [Weishaupt] but rather as an institution which we can trace back to the oldest time.”

He cites connections ranging from Moses and the ancient Mysteries to the Spanish Alombrados and the Rosicrucians of the early modern era.

Another useful part is a series of short biographies of the leading figures in the book, including Westcott, Reuss, the English Mason John Yarker, and Gérard Encausse (Papus), founder of the Martinist Order in France.

The book has its drawbacks. There are many typos and glitches in editing, and it is often frustrating to have Lees jump back and forth between the story of his own discoveries and the historical narration.

But it is richly illustrated and gives the reader an idea of the visual aspect of these lodges—their documents, paraphernalia, and diagrams, many of them elaborate.

Many of the rituals and documents are reproduced, but they do not reveal a great deal of esoteric knowledge to the reader.

There are small items here and there.

The ceremonial of initiation to the Rose-Croix Grade, for example, tells us that the word INRI has several meanings:

– its familiar one (an acronym of Iesus Nazarenus, Rex Iudaeorum: “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews”);

– a more esoteric, alchemical one (Igne Natura Renovatur Integra: “By fire is nature restored to wholeness”);

– and a yet more esoteric one, “the climax of all occult sciences according to the poem of Hermes”: Ioithi, Nain, Rasith, and Ioithi, referring respectively to the “active creative principle . . . the passive principle . . . a combination of the two principles, and the constant eternal transformation of all created things,” and “again the creative, godly principle as a symbol of the eternal circle of the world and all things created.”

This resembles the exposition of the Tetragrammaton YHWH in Papus’s Tarot of the Bohemians.

The book does not answer the chief question it is likely to raise: what were all these men on about?

Why did they chase back and forth across Europe, exchanging degrees and initiations (many of which they had invented themselves) like boys swapping Pokémon cards?

The interchanges are so intricate that Lees had to create two detailed diagrams just to show the flow of orders in 1901 and 1902.

The answer—that they were simply charlatans—does not hold up.

They did not profit from these degrees, and most of them had prominent and successful careers outside the initiatic world. 

Nevertheless, I think the answer is partly sociological.

No one today can imagine the hold that titles of nobility held over nineteenth-century Europe.

I suspect that one motivation for this panoply of quasi-Masonic titles and degrees was to create a kind of alternative aristocracy, because the conventional aristocracy was nearly impossible to enter.

In addition, the Western esoteric traditions, after centuries of repression, were beginning to shake themselves and move into the present.

Because Masonry was no doubt the key inspiration for this awakening, many of the newly proliferating forms used Masonic terms and titles.

Today there seems to be a revival of interest in fraternal orders, especially Masonry, among those with serious esoteric interests.

This is no doubt to be welcomed. Lees’ book illustrates how those esoteric lodges functioned in the past—as well as mistakes that lodges of the present can avoid.

Find out more about the Theosophical Society in America and Quest magazine

https://www.theosophical.org/

Article by: Richard Smoley

 

The English Illuminati

By: Alistair Lees (Author)

 

Recent Articles: book reviews

Book Review - The Life and Death of John Yarker'

Discover the enigmatic life of John Yarker, a Victorian occultist and influential Freemason, in David Harrison's compelling biography, 'The Life and Death of John Yarker.' Unveil Yarker's profound impact on esoteric traditions, his eclectic collection of rites and orders, and explore never-before-seen documents and letters. Dive deep into the legacy of a man who shaped the mystical and masonic landscapes of his time. Perfect for historians, occult enthusiasts, and Freemasons alike. 

Book Review - Freemasonry in the Eastern Archipelago Vol I & II

Discover the profound history and intricate journey of Freemasonry in the Eastern Archipelago through Manoj Sharma's comprehensive two-volume series. These meticulously crafted limited-edition works are essential for Masonic scholars, offering deep insights and stunning design. Explore the legacy and evolution of the Craft from antiquity to the modern era. 

Book Review - Exploring the Vault: Masonic Higher Degrees 1730 – 1800.

Exploring the Vault: Masonic Higher Degrees 1730 – 1800 by John Belton and Roger Dachez offers an enlightening, evidence-based reappraisal of Masonic ritual evolution. Through meticulous research, it challenges established claims, unveils the origins and spread of higher degrees, and underscores Freemasonry’s profound historical impact on arts, trade, public policy, and philanthropy. 

Book Review - Taken by Surprise

Never again will a Freemason be caught out by a last-minute request to make a response. Should you be given just a few moments to prepare for a speech, you will readily be able to locate, within the pages of this book, a statement that will allow you to enhance any short comment you make, giving it immediate relevance.

Book Review - The White Stone

Connell Donnelly, a young Church of Ireland priest in Cork joins a Masonic lodge and finds friendship, accepts challenges to become a better man, and learns to serve God more fully.

Book Review - The Collected, Prestonian Lectures

Only one Masonic lecture a year receives the official sanction and authority of the United Grand Lodge of England. Grand Lodge appoints a Prestonian Lecturer each year, and he gives a paper on a subject of his own choosing.

Book Review - Making A Master Mason - The Masonic Tutor's Handbooks Vol 4

The relationship between a Master Mason and the Brethren of their Lodge is the traditional way that our Craft’s traditional wisdom is passed on.

Book Review - Freemasonry From the 1st to the 33rd Degree

In a remarkable endeavour to bridge the historical and linguistic gap between French Masonic manuscripts and the English-speaking Masonic community, Kamel Oussayef unveils his latest translation, "Freemasonry From the 1st to the 33rd Degree".

Book Review - Crafty Characters

"Crafty Characters" by Mike Neville delves into the Freemasons' clandestine legacy, uncovering a history marred by scandal and uplifted by heroism. This gripping account reveals the Masons' impact on history, from dark conspiracies to noble deeds, challenging perceptions of one of the most secretive fraternities in history. It's a thrilling exploration of power, morality, and influence, condensed into an epic narrative.

Book Review - Belief and Truth

In "Belief & Truth, Inside the Freemasons," Caitlin Chescoe unveils the mystique of a three-century-old brotherhood. Born into its legacy, Chescoe challenges the 'old boys club' stereotype, presenting a tapestry woven with the personal tales of both male and female Freemasons. Accompanied by Camilla Brown's insightful essay, the book delves into Freemasonry's societal interplay with gender, religion, and charity, enriched by evocative portraits and archival treasures.

Book Review - Weekly Masonic Doubts

István Horváth's 'Weekly Masonic Doubts' illuminates Freemasonry's enigmas through 52 insightful essays. A thought-provoking guide, it invites Masons and non-Masons alike to explore profound traditions and modern challenges, fostering dialogue and enlightenment on the timeless journey within the Craft.

Book Review - 150 Years of Cryptic Masonry

"150 Years of Cryptic Masonry" transcends a mere historical account; it is an immersive odyssey into the heart of an esoteric brotherhood. With reverent detail, it bridges the ceremonial rites of Craft and Royal Arch Masonry, unveiling the solemn grandeur of the Cryptic degrees. Through vivid photographs, intricate tables, and expansive maps, the reader is not just informed but transported across time and tradition. This volume celebrates the architects of Masonic ritual, offering an enlightening tapestry that will captivate both the Masonic initiate and the curious scholar alike, illuminating the path of Masonic wisdom across a century and a half.

Book Review - A Masonic Evolution

Explore the dynamic transformation of Freemasonry in Michael R. Poll's 'A Masonic Evolution.' As the world shifts, so does the ancient fraternity, moving from club-like gatherings to profound seekers of enlightenment. Dive into the past, present, and future of Masonry and its adaptation in the digital age.

Book Review - The Rare Books of Freemasonry

This book is a comprehensive study of the rare books of Freemasonry, including their history, significance, and symbolism. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in the history and philosophy of Freemasonry. The author, Lionel Vibert, was a leading expert on the subject in the early 20th century.

Book Review - From Entered Apprentice to Kabbalist: The Kabbalistic Secrets of Freemasonry

Delve into Kwame Agyare's 'The Masonic Journey: Apprentice Edition', a captivating exploration of Freemasonry's core values and rituals. Agyare, a 32nd degree Freemason, unveils the profound wisdom and transformative power of the Craft, guiding readers on a journey of self-discovery, brotherhood, and service to humanity. A must-read for seekers of enlightenment.

Book Review - The Knights Templar

Dive into 'The Knights Templar: A Captivating Guide to a Powerful Catholic Military Order and Their Impact on the Crusades' - a thrilling exploration of the legendary warrior monks. Discover their battlefield triumphs, financial prowess, and enduring influence. Unearth secrets of medieval history and the Crusades in this riveting account. A must-read for history enthusiasts!

Book Review - Essay on The Mysteries and the True Object of The Brotherhood of Freemasons

Dive into the enigmatic world of Freemasonry with our riveting review of 'Essay on the Mysteries and the True Object of the Brotherhood of Freemasons.' Uncover ancient secrets, explore symbolic philosophies, and decode the fraternity's enduring allure. A must-read for history buffs and mystery seekers!

Book Review - Ritual, Secrecy, and Civil Society

Unlock the mysteries of Freemasonry with 'Ritual Secrecy and Civil Society.' Explore its historical evolution, societal impact, and philosophical underpinnings. Dive into this riveting narrative that illuminates the clandestine world of Freemasonry like never before. Your journey into the heart of secret societies starts here!

Book Review - More Light: Today's Freemasonry for Men and Women

Uncover the secrets of Freemasonry in 'More Light: Today's Freemasonry for Men and Women.' This riveting exploration, from ancient mysteries to modern practices, breaks down gender barriers, delving into the inclusive, spiritual, and philosophical aspects of this enigmatic Order. Enlighten your understanding of the Masonic world with Julian Rees' masterpiece.

Book Review - The Arch and The Rainbow

Unravel the mystique of Freemasonry with "The Arch and The Rainbow"! Penned by Reverend Neville Barker Cryer, this enlightening guide dives deep into the Mark and Royal Arch Mariner Degrees, answering your burning questions with masterful clarity. Dive in and discover the untold secrets of these fascinating Orders!

Book Review - The Fellow Craft's Friend by Kim March

Unlock the mysteries of Freemasonry with 'The Fellow Craft's Friend' by Kim March. This comprehensive guide explores the Second Degree, tracing its roots from King Solomon's Temple to modern Freemasonry. Dive into the rich history, vibrant illustrations, and insightful interpretations in this must-read book.

Book Review - The Alchemical Search for the Unified Field

Unlock the secrets of the universe with 'The Alchemical Search for the Unified Field.' Journey through history, sacred geometry, and personal transformation as you discover the Philosophers' Stone within. This enlightening guide combines ancient wisdom and modern science in a quest for spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Book Review - The Shadow of Solomon: The Lost Secret of the Freemasons Revealed

Are you intrigued by the enigmatic world of the Freemasons and their hidden influence on history? Do you ever wonder what secrets they keep locked away, known only to their inner circle? If so, prepare to embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of the world's most powerful and mysterious secret society.

Book Review - Confessions of a COVID Cleric

Looking for a captivating and thought-provoking read? Look no further than "Confessions of a COVID Cleric" by Liam Thornton. Father Matthew is an ordinary Vicar, in an ordinary English village Parish. He is also a Freemason.

Rediscovered Rituals of English Freemasonry

Dive into the mysterious world of Freemasonry with Dr. David Harrison's 'Rediscovered Rituals of English Freemasonry'. Unearth the true secrets of 19th-century Masonic rituals in this comprehensive review. Your journey into the intriguing history and esoteric practices of English Freemasonry starts here.

Book Review - Freemasonry: The Entered Apprentice Guide

Freemasonry: The Entered Apprentice Guide by Robert Wileman is an insightful and comprehensive resource that aims to guide the reader through the early stages of their journey into the world of Freemasonry. Written by an experienced Freemason, this book delves into the essential aspects of the fraternity, from its historical origins and philosophical foundations to the symbolism and rituals that define its core.

Book Review - Thinking, Fast and Slow

Thinking, Fast and Slow is a ground breaking book by Nobel Prize-winning psychologist and economist Daniel Kahneman, which delves into the intricacies of human decision-making and cognitive biases. Published in 2011, the book is a culmination of decades of research by Kahneman and his late collaborator, Amos Tversky. It unravels the complexities of the human mind by exploring two distinct systems of thinking: System 1 and System 2.

Book Review - The Future of Freemasonry in Denmark

Danish Freemasonry differs in important respects from international Freemasonry. Despite a ban on political and religious interference which has been in place for many years, these two areas have had a profound impact on the situation in Denmark today. Things in Denmark have gone wrong.

Book Review - Doneraile Court: The Story of the Lady Freemason

“The book brings to life the perilous night Elizabeth was caught spying on Freemasons in the middle of an initiation ritual, forcing them to make a life-or-death decision,” - By Kathleen Aldworth Foster

Book Review - How to Join Freemasonry

Are you curious about the origins of the fraternal organization known as Freemasonry? Do you want to learn more about its impact on modern society? Look no further than our comprehensive guide, "How to join Freemasonry; 12 things you should know first"

Book Review - The Path of Freemasonry – The Craft as a Spiritual Practice

In this practical guide, that details the spiritual lessons and rituals of Freemasonry as a step-by-step path of spiritual development and self-improvement for both Masons and non-Masons, men and women, alike. By Mark Stavish

Book Review - Dudley Wright: Writer, Truthseeker & Freemason

Dudley Wright (1868-1950) was an Englishman who took a universalist approach to the various great Truths of Life, he travelled though many religions in his life and wrote about them all, but was probably most at home with Islam.

Book Review - What Just Happened? By Hugh O'Neill

This series of booklets will attempt to describe in plain terms what was involved in conferring the three degree, a little of its historical and traditional basis, as well as the ideas presented to new members for their contemplation now and in the future. By Hugh O'Neill

Book Review - Managing The Future of Freemasonry

The golden years of Freemasonry have passed with the departure of a world never likely to return. We cannot pretend that our membership problem will simply go away. If we are to rescue our order, we must take an objective look at ourselves and understand the society we now face. By Dr David J West

Book Review - Anderson's Constitutions - 1723

This book contains a faithful reproduction of the first edition of the Constitutions of the Free-Masons, printed in London in 1723. The text, word spelling and paragraph size has been maintained, original restored decorations have been used, and font and character typesets have been carefully replicated.

Book Review - The Freemasons

The Freemasons - The History, Nature, Development and Secret of the Royal Art, was originally published in German under the title 'Die Friemaurer' and in 1930 was awarded the 'Peters-Baertsoen Prize' by the Grand Orient of Belgium.

Book Review - Learning Ritual - An Easy Process

This book presents a simple, effective, and time-proven approach to the memorization and performance of Masonic ritual. Learning Ritual: A Simple Process offers the reader a simple universal approach to any form of Masonic ritual whether it is Blue or Craft Lodge or that of a high degree.

Book Review - Over 300 years of Masonic Ritual

This book celebrates the 300th anniversary of the founding of the Premier Grand Lodge in June 1717, by reviewing the basis of our workings from the earliest records to the formation of the United Grand Lodge of England in December 1813 and further.

Book Review - Seven Habits of Highly Successful Lodges

Successful Lodges tend to share several common features. In this exciting new book, well-known author and speaker Tony Harvey draws on his extensive experience in different areas within Freemasonry to identify the key features most often seen in our strongest, happiest, and most attractive Lodges.

Book Review - High Meridian

Ben Zion's awaited second book - This book contains a highly thought-provoking, or perhaps, more crucially a challenging narrative on the esoteric aspects of Freemasonry. There is no cautious conjecture, no frivolous ‘woo-woo’ approach, Zion dives straight in and makes us think…hard!

Book Review - Chapter & Verse: 100 years of Royal Arch Talks

The publication of Chapter & Verse is in celebration of the centenary of Authors’ Chapter No. 3456; it takes the form of an anthology of some seventy-five talks presented in the Chapter. The spread of authors ensures divers interpretations of the Royal Arch narrative and dramatis personae.

Book Review - Freemasons: 555 Illustrations

Written by one of the highest Masonic dignitaries, this unique book reveals the secrets of Freemasonry in inspiring images and quotes.

Book review - More Light: Collected Masonic Writings 2017-2021

This book delivers a collection of the author’s articles from RiteNow, the magazine of the Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh, along with a history of Freemasonry – both worldwide, and in the Pittsburgh area specifically.

High Meridian

The eagerly anticipated sequel to the best-selling esoteric Masonic book of 2021 - "Whence Come You". High Meridian (The 'Light' Series Book 2) by Ben Zion - This book takes the reader to that next stage in a seeker's journey, and using Masonic imagery and symbolism as a necessary backdrop against which a deeper spiritual understanding can be found…

Book Review - 21st Century Rosicrucianism

When the original Rosicrucian pamphlets were circulated in the early 1600s they sent a shockwave across Europe, instigating a surge of activity that changed the course of Western Esotericism.

Book Review - The Freethinking Freemason

Tim Bryce's "The Freethinking Freemason" offers sage advice on how to run a Masonic Lodge, editorials on the future direction of the fraternity, and stories aimed at entertaining Masons.

Book Review - Inventing the Future

This book sets out those principles, considers the people involved and explores the framework within which their ideas were formed. And it discusses how the Constitutions evolved. - By Ric Berman

Secret History of the Wild, Wild West

Exclusive Extract of Daniel Duke's new book 'Secret History of the Wild, Wild West – Outlaws, Secret Societies and hidden Agendas of the Elite'.

Book Review – Haunted Chambers: The Lives of Early Women Freemasons

These women aren't supposed to have existed. But they did. "Haunted Chambers", for the first time ever, presents not only the most complete list of early women Freemasons but also as much detail about their lives as can still be found. By Karen Kidd

Book Review - Freemasonry & the Enlightenment

This superbly illustrated study of Free­ masonry’s influence on Western culture, especially in the 18th and early­19th centuries, has been recognised as one of the most original and important contributions towards a greater understanding of the Enlightenment published in recent times.

Book Review - Widows Sons: Outlaw Bikers or Masonic Ambassadors

Outlaw Bikers or Masonic Ambassadors. Fully recognised and approved by the United Grand Lodge of England, 2018 marked the twentieth anniversary of the creation of the Widows Sons, with 2019 marking the fifteenth anniversary of the Widows Sons starting in the UK. Book by Wayne Owens.

Book Review - Freemasonry - Theory of the Origins

This book charts the transformational processes which combine in a peak between the end of the seventeenth and the start of the eighteenth century. By Fabio Venzi

Book Review – Robert's Rules of Order: Masonic Edition

New Updated Edition with section for online Masonic gatherings! - Experienced legislators, editors, civic leaders, business executives, and club officers all pronounce Robert's Rules of Order the best parliamentary guide in the English language.

Book Review - The Point Within the Circle

This is a very unusual book on Freemasonry. It takes the reader on a journey through some of the esoteric elements that are integral to Freemasonry's design. It shows how the Masonic temple itself is constructed in accordance with three ancient systems. By Matthew Ridgley Clark

Book Review - Famous Freemasons who Changed the World

There are 110 biographical entries in the book. Famous people where also Freemasons who changed the world by Kent Henderson

Book Review - The Full Spectrum of Freemasonry

This book reflects the author’s research interests in Victorian Freemasonry, and the Orders beyond the Craft and provides a better understanding of how the other Masonic Orders have grown and developed in parallel with Craft Masonry by Richard Gan

Book Review - Some Masonic Musings

The papers in this volume cover fifty years of research and thought. They were often also produced to fill out programmes for Lodges of Research and there is a degree of repetition and overlap. by Aubrey N. Newman

Book Review - The Siblys of London

The colourful life of Ebenezer Sibly; a quack doctor, plagiarist, and masonic ritualist in late eighteenth-century London; by Dr Susan Mitchell Sommers

Book Review – We Three or Three Such as We

No review can begin to touch the sensitivity with which the people therein have been described, nor the extent of the layers and levels of their esoteric lodge experience, something that sadly few will ever achieve

Book Review - In The Steps Of The Templars

This comprehensive, authoritative, up to date history of the Masonic Knight Templar and Knights of Malta covers everything from the crusading Orders of Knighthood from which the modern Masonic Templar Orders

Book Review - Alternative Masonic Addresses For The Craft Degrees

Do you get asked to give an address at your lodge ? Are you looking for an alternative address ? Then take a look at this collection of alternative masonic addresses for the craft degrees prepared by Lewis Masonic

Book Review – The Freemasons Stopped in the Middle of the Ford

This book tries to approach Freemasonry from different sides; not so much to explain how he understands it as to encourage the reader to seek his own answers – on its methods, its organization, and its meaning. By Peter Bu

Book Review - Making A Daily Advancement

In this work the author brings together a whole range of Masonic facts including the origins of our customs, our rituals and our practices, by Michael Lawrence

Book Review - A Glossary Of The Craft And Holy Royal Arch Ritual Terms

This handy little book describes the origins and original meanings of the sometimes obscure words used in our ritual by Brigadier A.C.F. Jackson

Book Review - A Path to Providence: The Creation of the Middle Chamber Program

Masonic Education has regrettably been reduced to teaching protocol, traditions, and catechism while ignoring the esoteric essence of the ritual. By Shaun Bradshaw (Author), Ben Wallace (Author), Flynn Ryan (Cover Art)

Book Review - Nobly Born: An Illustrated History of the Knights Templar

The Templars were an unusual Order in that they lived both an active and contemplative life; making them effectively the first warrior-monks in the western world. by Stephen Dafoe

Book Review - A Deserving Brother: George Washington and Freemasonry

Like several of America’s founding fathers, George Washington was a Freemason. In 'A Deserving Brother', Mark Tabbert presents a complete story of Washington’s known association with Freemasonry.

Book Review - Taken by Surprise

Never again will a Freemason be caught out by a last-minute request to make a response. - Taken by Surprise by Yasha Beresiner

Book review - The Tracing Boards of the First Degree

The Tracing Board is a picture that encloses the quintessence of the ritual of the Degree and transmits it through symbols and images. By Enrico Marcia

Book Review - The Other Brotherhood: When Freemasonry Crossed the English Channel

An excellent book, being perfect for Freemasons and non-Freemasons alike who want to explore the origins of Freemasonry and to examine how it influenced French thought in the eighteenth century

book review - Whence Come You

The message of the book is essentially one of Freemasonry being unequivocally esoteric – spiritual – and that is something that many Masons may balk at but it is a topic that needs discussing rationally.

Book Review - Becoming a Craftsman -The Masonic Tutor's Handbooks: Volume 3

Becoming a Craftsman -The Masonic Tutor's Handbooks: Volume 3 - The relationship between a Fellowcraft and their Master is how the traditional wisdom of our Craft is passed on.

Book Review - Freemasonry in London from 1785

This book is a well-researched study by a competent masonic scholar who has welded links from the changing scenes that arose in an era in which the most important step forward in organised Freemasonry was taken…

Book Review - The Masonry of the «Moderns»: History and Rituality

The Masonic ritual world dates back to the 18th century, both from England and from France, which is still our most valuable reference.

Book Review - Meditations of a Flawed Ashlar

Many readers will probably be familiar with Bill Hosler – he is a much-respected and veteran American Freemason and a regular contributor to the Midnight Freemasons blog.

Book Review - Three Stages of Initiatic Spirituality - Angel Millar

Angel Millar is a well-known lecturer on Freemasonry, initiation, and esotericism as well as an artist and student of the martial arts. The author of several books.

Book Review - The Rite of Seven Degrees

This book examines the deeply esoteric eighteenth-century Rite of Seven Degrees.

Book Review - The Green Book of the Elus Coens

The Green Book of the Élus Coëns is the most fascinating insight yet into the secrets and mysteries of the eighteenth century’s most esoteric of masonic societies – The Order of Knight-Mason Elect-Cohens of the Universe.

Book Review - Freemasonry for the Heart and Mind

Freemasonry for the Heart and Mind: A glance at Freemasonry during the Enlightenment and the American and French revolutions.

Book Review - The Masonic Pageant

The Masonic Pageant is published by Cornerstone Book Publishers and features a nice foreword by Chris Hodapp, 33°.

DVD Review - A Mighty Good Man

A drama-documentary of the life of Elias Ashmole including a reconstruction of the first personally recorded Free Masonic Initiation into a Lodge anywhere in the world.

Book Review - Invisibles

It is reasonable to suggest that when published, Invisibles was the most comprehensive, comparative study, to date, of the Rosicrucian mega-meme.

Book Review - Mnemonic Methods

Within this book 'Mnemonic Methods by Robert Fludd', translator Paul Ferguson introduces us to the English translation of two of Fludd's short treatises on memory

Book Review - English Illuminati

This book gives us a deep look into the European occult revival of the late nineteenth century and some of its key figures…

Book Review - Emulation: A Ritual to Remember

How does one begin to review a masonic classic which has faithfully served generations? Perhaps starting with the title Emulation: A Ritual to Remember.

Book Review - The Rosslyn Hoax

Robert Cooper asks, would you like to know the truth about Rosslyn Chapel ?

Book Review - Mastering Masonic Ritual

Mastering Masonic Ritual is focused on preparing for a successful and fulfilling journey around the floor to the Chair.

Book Review - Companions of Christian Rosenkreutz

A review of Companions of Christian Rosenkreutz - Collected Papers 2008-2016

Book Review - Freemasonry: Material Moral and Mystical

A review of Freemasonry: Material, Moral, and Mystical by Tony Baker

Book Review - The Masonic Tutor's Handbook 2

A review of The Masonic Tutor's Handbooks: Vol 2 - Freemasonry - After Covid 19 by Robert Lomas

Book Review - Three Distinct Knocks - John Meeks

"Why don't these new guys come back?" This is the question I often hear; and it is this same question that pushed me to write this book. - John Meek

Book Review - Soldier and Mason

Soldier and Mason: The Life of Charles Warren Napier-Clavering

Book Review - Bohemian Masonic Glass

A completely unique narrative publication mapping the phenomenon of glass production for the needs of Masonic lodges

Book Review - This Chequered Existence

Gerald Reilly reviews this new book covering the near-modern history of Freemasonry in England and Wales during the 20th-century.

Book Review - The EA, FC, MM Handbooks

Essential reading for every Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason - these seminal books by J.S.M Ward are what every Mason needs!

Book Review - The Freemasons who won America's War for Independence

Find out who were the Freemasons who won America's War for Independence

Book Review - Black Freemasonry: From Prince Hall to the Giants of Jazz

A book review of Black Freemasonry: From Prince Hall to the Giants of Jazz by Cécile Révauger

Book Review - Crime and the Craft

Crime and the Craft reveals that the Freemasons have been involved in treason, murder, conspiracy, fraud, and scandal from the time of the English Civil War to the 1980s.

Book Review - Focus on Ric Berman

Focus on Ric Berman a British historian who writes about the intersection of freemasonry, politics and society.

Book Review - The Temple That Never Sleeps

Freemasons and E-Masonry Toward a New Paradigm

Book Review - The Secret School of Wisdom

The Authentic Rituals and Doctrines of the Illuminati is a pioneering text

Book Review - Charles Warren: Royal Engineer in the Age of Empire

Sir Charles Warren, the Police Commissioner who failed to catch 'Jack the Ripper'

Book Review - Freemasonry and the Press in the Twentieth Century

During the latter part of the twentieth century, the Press and Freemasonry had a tense relationship.

Book Review - Who was Hiram Abiff?

Every Freemason must have at some point asked himself the above question.

The Masonic Book Club (MBC)

The new MBC will have a different business model than the old.

Book Review - Jesse James and the Lost Templar Treasure

Lost Templar Treasure: Secret Diaries, Coded Maps, and the Knights of the Golden Circle

Book Review - The Enigma of the Royal Arch

Royal Arch What's it all about

Book Review - The Craft

Review of the new book The Craft by John Dickie, Professor of Italian Studies at University College London

Book Review - For Hills and Valleys

For Hills and Valleys, Mobile Schools and Republicanism in the Zêzere Valley By Aires Henriques

DVD Review - 33 and Beyond: The Royal Art of Freemasonry

33 & Beyond: The Royal Art of Freemasonry, is perhaps the most fascinating and important documentary ever made on the on the subject matter of Freemasonry.

Book Review - History of Freemasonry in Bessarabia

Book review by guest reviewer Gheorghe Bichicean on the History of Freemasonry in Bessarabia by Alexandru Rufanda

Game Review - On The Square

A new Board Game based on The Freemasons

Book Review - The Lost Keys of Freemasonry

Introduction to The Lost Keys of Freemasonry by Manly P. Hall

Prestonian Lecture 2020

A system of morality – Aristotle and the making of the ritual by Professor G.R. Boys-Stones

Book Review - History of the Grand Orient of Italy

In depth book review in to the History of the Grand Orient of Italy by the author

Book Review – Freemasonry It's Hidden Meaning

Youtube Book review by Baruti KMT-Sisouvong

masonic knowledge

to be a better citizen of the world

share the square with two brothers

click image to open email app on mobile device

Share this article ....

Contents