Every Mason’s experiences are unique – here writer and artist Draško Miletić shares insights from his First Degree Work.
R:.G:.L:.S:.
L:.M:.P:. Or. Beograd
Worshipful Master, Most Respected Brethren from the East, Respected Officers, dear Brethren in the columns, today there are five of the same numbers in the date.
When we add to that series of deuces the second day of the week, as six deuces, we gain powerful energy; the same number of deuces will be in two hundred years, on Friday, February 22, 6222.
In short: today’s powerful energy will not be surpassed. That’s what heuristics says, which, right now, I leave to determine all past and future alignments in the calendar, probably thousands of them.
Numerologically speaking, today belongs to the number seven, which is sobriety and perseverance, analysis, and mystery; it is a sublime area of existence and the search for the most hidden. Unlike the previous six numbers, which represent the worries and anxieties of everyday, profane life, with the number seven we enter a completely new dimension which is a bridge between the so-called ‘lower’ and ‘higher’ world.
Under influence of this number man perfects the knowledge of life on earth, he better understands the world around him, he seeks the truth.
That is why the number seven is lonely, even reluctant to endure himself. This number is often an unfortunate wanderer. Anyway, the theme of my degree craft is the ‘Brick’.
It all started with artificial blindness. With a black bandage, walking through the darkness. Then came the Room of the Lost Steps, black walls, pale light, with a skull on the table.
The separation from profane life becomes inevitable. Therefore, Freemasonry is a rarity that influences, a temple is a tell of the spirit, and a lodge is a closeness that makes a person better. More so, a Lodge is a Mason, and a Mason is a Lodge.
Here, in such place, every brick requires special attention. Because a brick is essence.
It summons up five thousand years, the change of civilizations, the philosophy of beauty, other people’s sin, and iniquity, it sums up ‘Yes’ and ‘No’, it sums up ‘Simplicity’ and ‘Complexity’.
A brick is, I dare to say, more than a mind; a brick is a sign of every civilization. And a witness to her downfall.
The brick is hollow and full, wide, and narrow, with a crack or with a prong, the brick is upright and the brick is laid flat.
One just must put his ear to it; to hear the inaudible. To be one with that, because a brick is opus homini [man’s creation] Brave and firm, crowned with storm, frost and heat, not hesitant at all, obsessed with timidity.
That is why I say out loud: The brick is the nucleus of the whole!
Accordingly, I would like to remind all of us of the Vulgate, the pages dedicated to the very beginning of the conscious memory of the human race.
Let me remind all of us of the broken Sinai tablet, the content of which human history still is silent.
Of course, at this point, without further ado, one should ask himself: Was there any content at all? Maybe the clay tablet in Moses’ hands was empty? Left to man to create it: by thought, will and deed.
But, the man, surprised by that terrible emptiness, dropped it from his hands. What we all know is that the Ten Commandments followed.
In short: man is overwhelmed by prohibitions. A great negative state was demanded. But the man could not stand it. History was born! History still insignificant in the fellow man.
Fortunately, against such doom we use the symbol of our worshipful Lodge, number thirteen.
If we consider that number twelve is a perfect number, divisible by as many as four other numbers, then number thirteen is number of a new beginning, of rebirth itself.
But, as we belong to the soil of the Apotheosis of Death, or as the poet once rightly said:
The people will live – by dying, as we belong to a very strong oral and written folk tradition subject to that, as we belong to such Silos of shed blood, then a new beginning, or deviation from such metonymies, is not only in the service of common sense but also our mere obligation.
Hence, the number thirteen should be seen as mystical and ulterior, the one belonging to the Book of Life and is undeniably biophilic. It is a saving value. We strive for it.
In any case, I know one thing for sure: Masonry should belong to the verb ‘to Be’, it is not an adjective or noun, it is a verb – it is a state of being where it starts and ends: I am.
It is a call to give order to your own life, it is the inexhaustible embryos of possibilities; at that point the stomach is twisted, eyes are cleansed, mind is observed, man resists and ease is abandoned.
That way the sight of devastation would be avoided; the parade of sins eluded. Because, only in difficulty – a person becomes free!
And one more thing: What is the point of the word when I took a vow that I will be silent? It looks like I am questioning the verb ‘to Be’ with silence! In Latin: paraphrasing Horace’s words: sapere tace! – dare to be silent!
I have spoken!
Worshipful Master, even I am far from the goal, even though I missed quite a bit, my degree work is over. May the Great Architect of All Worlds allow our construction to succeed.
3×3
Bro. D:.M :.
Belgrade, 22 February, 6022, the year of true light
About the Authour
Draško Miletić, born in Kotor. Montenegro
He graduated from Belgrade University as BA of tourism, but changed profession, started working as a journalist and for fifteen years was a journalist, editor and author in digital and news media, an editor at ART TV, the channel specialized for cultural topics.
Since 2001, Draško dedicated himself to literature not only as a writer, but also as a editor in chief of the books of poetry, essays and short stories and the literary magazine URB, which was published monthly from 2003-2007.
During the period 2005-2007 he was also teacher in the Center for Youth Creativity. As a result, three books were published. He has published more than fifty literary and web magazines in Serbia and the region.
Draško is a member of the Serbian literary society and since 2018 has been an independent artist. He is multilingual, speaking English and French. He lives and works in Belgrade with his wife Neda, a music teacher, and has two grown-up children.
Kalendari
by Draško Miletić (Author)
Ovaj roman je uspešno pokazao vitalnost srpske književnosti ne samo svojom naracijom već i obiljem tema i likova koje obrađuje. Braća Kuga (već i samo prezime govori o piščevom stavu) neprekidnim monolozima, dijalozima i analizama seciraju celokupnu istoriju ljudskog roda, koja se u jednoj čudesnoj sobi prikazuje potpuno ogoljena. Roman Kalendari će se temeljno čitati, teško prepričavati, a čitaoci će mu se sigurno ponovo vraćati.
PH (bazno-neutralno-kiselo)
by Draško Miletić (Author)
Nesvakidasnji roman o gradu koji prepoznajemo na najcudnije nacine, u emotivnim dubinama njegovih glavnih junaka… Ovo je proza koja belezi ostatke humanog, zadrzanog na rubovima postvarenog, emotivno opustosenog ljudskog sveta (na mestu emocija ostale su tanatofobija, intenzivan strah i opsednutost propadanjem, kao i slutnja “zla koje kvasa”)… Jasmina Ahmetagic “PH” je nemoguce sazeto prepricati niti bi takav pokusaj icemu suvislom vodio. U ovakvo pripovedanje jednostavno valja zaroniti kao u kaleidoskop u kome sve biva isto i razlicito, zamamno i nemusto, jasno i tajanstveno. Sve je mogucno, jer nemoguca istorija sveta jos traje. Pred pazljivim citaocem romana “pH” odvija se (ovog puta u tri poglavlja) jedna njena ispreturana, mracna epizoda. Ljiljana Sop
Recent Articles: Esoteric Masonry
 Explore the multifaceted concept of the Divine across various cultural and religious perspectives. Delve into the intriguing deliberations on the Great Architect, Demiurge, and their roles in shaping our understanding of the cosmos, blending philosophical, theological, and metaphysical insights into a rich tapestry of human spirituality. |
 Unveiling the Mysteries: Explore the Enigmatic World of Rosicrucianism! Dive into the fascinating origins and teachings of the Rosicrucian tradition, shaped by the mythical figure Christian Rosenkreuz. Discover the secrets of alchemy, spiritual transformation, and esoteric knowledge. Unlock the hidden wisdom that has captivated seekers for centuries. Unleash your inner mystic today! |
 An Esoteric Interpretation of the Holy Royal Arch Delving into the profound mysteries of the Holy Royal Arch, Matt DA Fletcher offers an esoteric interpretation that challenges the conventional understanding of Freemasonry. While Craft Masonry is clear in its teachings, the Royal Arch remains an enigma for many. Fletcher's exploration uncovers the symbolic and philosophical depths of this degree, revealing its significance in the Mason's journey towards reintegration with the Creator. |
 Stoicism, Freemasonry, and the Modern Man Discover how the ancient wisdom of Stoicism can enrich Freemasonry and modern life. Dr. Chacón-Lozsán Francisco M.˙.M.˙. explores Stoic principles like virtue, resilience, and inner peace, offering practical insights for today's challenges. Learn how these timeless teachings can foster personal growth, ethical conduct, and emotional stability. |
 Explore the evolution of Masonic rites with the Universal Rite, a modern adaptation of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. Discover how it integrates contemporary principles, promotes intercultural dialogue, and ensures the timeless values of Freemasonry remain relevant in today's world. |
 Unveil the secrets of Pansophic Freemasonry, a transformative journey through the ancient mystical traditions. Delve into the sacred realms of Rosicrucianism, Templar wisdom, Kabbalah, Gnosticism, and more. Discover the Graal, the sacred Grail that connects all esoteric paths. Embrace a holistic spiritual quest that reveals the profound mysteries of self and the universe. |
 Dive into a spiritual journey where self-awareness is the key to enlightenment. The Gospel of Thomas and Masonic teachings converge on the profound truth that the path to transcendent wisdom lies within us. Embrace a diversified understanding of spirituality, emphasizing introspection as the gateway to a universally respected enlightenment. Explore, understand, transcend. |
 Philosophy the Science of Estimating Values Philosophy is the science of estimating values. The superiority of any state or substance over another is determined by philosophy. By assigning a position of primary importance to what remains when all that is secondary has been removed, philosophy thus becomes the true index of priority or emphasis in the realm of speculative thought. The mission of philosophy a priori is to establish the relation of manifested things to their invisible ultimate cause or nature. |
 Unlocking the Mysteries: The Surprising Connection Between Freemasonry and Astrologers Revealed! Delve into the intriguing world of Freemasonry and explore its ties to astrological practices. Discover how these two distinct realms intersect, offering a fascinating glimpse into the esoteric interests of some Freemasons. Uncover the hidden links and unravel the enigmatic bond between Freemasonry and astrologers! |
 Neoplatonism, a philosophy with profound influence from the 3rd to the 6th century, merges Platonic ideals with Eastern thought, shaping Western and Middle-Eastern philosophy for two millennia. It emphasizes the unity of the individual with the supreme 'One', blending philosophy with theology and impacting major religious and philosophical movements, including Christianity and Islam. |
 The enigmatic allure of Freemasonry's ancient rituals and Gnosticism's search for hidden knowledge capture the human spirit's endless quest for enlightenment. Between the stonemason's square and the Gnostic's divine spark lies a tantalizing intersection of philosophy, spirituality, and the pursuit of esoteric wisdom. Both traditions beckon with the promise of deeper understanding and moral elevation, inviting those who are drawn to unravel the tapestries of symbols and allegories. Whether through the fellowship of the lodge or the introspective journey of the soul, the paths of Freemasonry and Gnosticism represent a yearning to connect with something greater than ourselves—an impulse as old as time and as compelling as the mysteries they guard. |
 Embark on a journey through time and spirituality with our in-depth exploration of the Theosophical Society's Seal. This ancient emblem, rich with symbols, bridges humanity with the cosmos, echoing through the world's great faiths and diverse cultures. Our paper delves into the six mystical symbols, untangling their profound meanings and tracing their presence in historic art worldwide. Unaffiliated with worldly movements, these symbols open a window to esoteric wisdom. We also probe potential parallels with Freemasonry, seeking threads that might connect these storied organizations. Join us in unveiling the universal language of the spirit encoded within this enigmatic Seal. |
 Discover the pathway to divine oneness through the concept of self-dominance. This thought-provoking essay explores the profound connection between self-control, spiritual growth, and achieving unity with the divine essence. With an interdisciplinary approach, it offers practical steps towards expanding consciousness and deepening our understanding of the divine. |
 The Winding Staircase and its Kabbalistic Path The Winding Staircase in freemasonry is a renowned symbol of enlightenment. In this article, we explore its connection to Kabbalistic thought and how it mirrors the inner growth of a candidate as he progresses throughout his Masonic journey. From faith and discipline in Binah, to strength and discernment in Geburah, and finally to victory and emotional intuition in Netzach, each step represents a crucial aspect of personal development. Join us as we delve into the esoteric meanings of this powerful symbol. |
 Unravel the mystic origins of Capitular Masonry, a secretive Freemasonry branch. Explore its evolution, symbolic degrees, and the Royal Arch's mysteries. Discover the Keystone's significance in this enlightening journey through Masonic wisdom, culminating in the ethereal Holy Royal Arch. |
 Reflections on the Second Degree Work Bro. Draško Miletić offers his reflections on his Second Degree Work – using metaphor, allegory and symbolism to understand the challenges we face as a Fellow Craft Mason to perfect the rough ashlar. |
 Diversity and Universality of Masonic Work Explore the rich tapestry of Masonic work, a testament to diversity and universality. Uncover its evolution through the 18th century, from the stabilization of Symbolic Freemasonry to the advent of Scottish rite and the birth of Great Continental Rites. Dive into this fascinating journey of Masonic systems, a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Antonio Jorge explores the diversity and universality of Masonic Work |
 Nonsense as a Factor in Soul Growth Although written 100 years ago, this article on retaining humour as a means of self-development and soul growth is as pertinent today as it was then! Let us remember the words of an ancient philosopher who said, when referring to the court jester of a king, “It takes the brightest man in all the land to make the greatest fool.” |
 Freemasonry: The Robe of Blue and Gold Three Fates weave this living garment and man himself is the creator of his fates. The triple thread of thought, action, and desire binds him when he enters into the sacred place or seeks admittance to the Lodge, but later this same cord is woven into the wedding garment whose purified folds shroud the sacred spark of his being. - Manly P Hall |
 By such a prudent and well regulated course of discipline as may best conduce to the preservation of your corporal and metal faculties in the fullest energy, thereby enabling you to exercise those talents wherewith god has blessed you to his glory and the welfare of your fellow creatures. |
 Jacob Ernst's 1870 treatise on the Philosophy of Freemasonry - The theory of Freemasonry is based upon the practice of virtuous principles, inculcating the highest standard of moral excellence. |
 Alchemy, like Freemasonry, has two aspects, material and spiritual; the lower aspect being looked upon by initiates as symbolic of the higher. “Gold” is used as a symbol of perfection and the earlier traces of Alchemy are philosophical. A Lecture read before the Albert Edward Rose Croix Chapter No. 87 in 1949. by Ill. Bro. S. H. Perry 32° |
 The spirit of the Renaissance is long gone and today's globalized and hesitant man, no matter ideology and confession, is the one that is deprived of resoluteness, of decision making, the one whose opinion doesn't matter. Article by Draško Miletić, |
 A Mason's Work in the First Degree Every Mason's experiences are unique - here writer and artist Draško Miletić shares insights from his First Degree Work. |
 Initiation and the Lucis Trust The approach of the Lucis Trust to initiation may differ slightly to other Western Esoteric systems and Freemasonry, but the foundation of training for the neophyte to build good moral character and act in useful service to humanity is universal. |
 Who were the mysterious 18th century Élus Coëns – a.k.a The Order of Knight-Masons Elect Priests of the Universe – and why did they influence so many other esoteric and para-Masonic Orders? |
 Bro. Chris Hatton gives us his personal reflections on the history of the 'house at Blackheath and the Blackheath Orders', in this wonderful tribute to Andrew Stephenson, a remarkable man and Mason. |
 Book Review - Cagliostro the Unknown Master The book review of the Cagliostro the Unknown Master, by the Editor of the book |
 We explore fascinating and somewhat contentious historical interpretations that Freemasonry originated in ancient Egypt. |
 Is Freemasonry esoteric? Yes, no, maybe! |
 Egyptian Freemasonry, founder Cagliostro was famed throughout eighteenth century Europe for his reputation as a healer and alchemist |
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
Masonic Apparel
made to order
