Freemasonry is a post-collegiate mostly-all male fraternity dedicated to the social development of the member to form a broader sense of the self and their community.
Posts by Frederic L. Milliken – Through the beehive, Fred brings inspiring, provocative, and controversial posts sure to make you think. In his posts, The Beehive is a place of sharing Brotherly Love, Affection and to approach the controversial with the motto “Damn the torpedoes, full Speed ahead!”
Once again West Virginia is in the spotlight of Masonic news and as usual it’s all bad. This Grand Lodge is the only US GL to expel a Junior Past Master for his policies while in office. That foolish act has resulted in a civil court case that will start on 12/6/2010.
In the meantime West Virginia has pulled recognition from Ohio because it gave the expelled Frank Haas a new Masonic home. Because of that withdrawal of recognition West Virginia has refused to perform a Masonic funeral for an Ohio Brother who died in their state.
The West Virginia website, Masonic Crusade (archive page), reports:
Masonic Brother denied WV Funeral
Brethren a most tragic event has happened. A brother who resided and passed in West Virginia but a member of an Ohio lodge was denied a Masonic funeral by Randy Martin. It was all done in the name of the edict passed by Greg Riley. The unnamed brother (out of respect for the family) was a well respected and accomplished mason. Irregardless of that fact, even had he been a simple member of the craft he deserved better. We have we sank to a level lower than I expected of Grand Lodge.
I am told the brother’s family had a team of brethren travel from Ohio to respect his last wishes, but no West Virginia masons were allowed to participate. This barring of West Virginia participants was apparently done by order of the Grand Master of West Virginia. The Grand Lodge of Ohio would have allowed West Virginia participants, in much the same way that the edict severing relations was not reciprocated by Ohio. West Virginia masons are still quite welcome in Ohio lodges as long as they don’t mind risking their membership….
Lastly, lest the fanboys of Grand Lodge point out that there was a masonic funeral held, understand that if there had been some sort of “Masonic Police” the Grand Lodge of West Virginia would not have allowed the funeral to happen here.
The Judge in the Haas case has already made preliminary rulings that indicate West Virginia is in for a hard time and that this trial may lead to precedents being established that drastically change Fremasonry’s methods of governance. Knowing all that the Grand Lodge of West Virginia just one week before the trial has decided to play hard ball in what has to be one of the worst examples of public relations in the history of American Freemasonry.
The masons are really going to take over the world! Oh there is no doubt for you see there are Masonic symbols everywhere, many in the strange artwork that adorns the airport walls. And underneath the airport there is a maze of underground corridors containing secret bunkers. Here in this remote airport shielded from nuclear attack and impervious to illegal entry is buried the archives and the offices of those few in the Masonic order that have risen to top security clearance and who make the plans to destroy nations and have ready made plans to pick up the pieces in a New World Order.
Formerly at – KWGN, Channel 2, Denver has the story behind the story:
Suspicion surrounds the airport’s remote location and massive size.
Many believe DIA’s underground tunnels are secret bunkers built for 2012 Apocalypse and they question the strange murals that seem to depict the end of the world, and the Masonic plaque in the terminal that appears to be dedicated to a new world order, with its inscription that says “New World Airport Commission.”
The strange signs and symbols are the topic of TV shows, including “Conspiracy Theory,” starring Jesse Ventura.
But now DIA is debunking the conspiracy theories, by allowing FOX31 News cameras into areas no TV crew has been before.
Deep inside DIA’s dark tunnels where conspiracy theories are born. DIA’s Jeff Green says the airport staff has heard the rumors about secret bunkers, underground concentration camps, even a hiding place for aliens.
But Green says the actual reason the tunnels were built, were to house miles and miles of underground tracks for an automated baggage system that was supposed to be “state-of-the-art” but never worked. That’s why the tunnels are now used by thousands of baggage handlers who speed through the underground maze delivering luggage from one place to another.
Green admits it is an underground city of sorts. But he says there are no secret bunkers. When asked if he had shown us everything underground, Green said, “I’m showing you…everything…that I can find…that I know is here.”
And as for the “strange” and sometimes “scary” art, DIA art director Matt Chasansky says one mural depicts the destruction of the environment, another: the horrors of war, but right next to them are murals depicting a peaceful future. He says the murals are not meant to be viewed separately, but as a continuing story.
Chasansky says the Masonic plaque marks the spot where a time capsule is buried. When asked why the Masons were allowed to bury artifacts in an international airport, Chasansky replied, “I wasn’t there for the discussion about why that happened, but that happens in a lot of buildings because the tradition of the Masons is –as people who make buildings.”
He also said, the “New World Airport Commission,” was an advisory committee made up of local businesses that was formed while DIA was being built.
But for many conspiracy theorists, DIA’s explanation will land on deaf ears. They will always believe DIA is part of a government cover up. And nothing DIA officials say –will change that.
MWB Frank Haas will be in court on Monday 12/6/10.
The Judge has apparently ruled in a pre-trial hearing the following:
1. The Grand Master did not have the authority to expel a member based on the Laws of Masonry (West Virginia Lawbook).
2. The State of West Virginia has the authority to rule and force a private organization to follow its own rules.
3. The Grand Lodge had filed a motion to NOT allow any discussions regarding race. Their argument was that race was not pertinent to the case. She denied it and my understanding is that she indicated that it IS pertinent to the case.
As the Beehive has pointed out previously, Grand Lodges that have incorporated (and most if not all have), now are no longer purely private organizations but they have entered the civil world and are now subject to civil authority and to the rules of incorporation of their state. They no longer can violate the Civil Rights of their members. They can no longer get away with injustice with impunity. Civil courts will rule upon their practices because they have removed themselves from the exclusive private world into the public sphere. This they did of their own free will and accord and now it is time to pay the piper.
This could have far reaching effects for the high profile cases of Derek Gordon in Arkansas and Mike McCabe in New Jersey and many other Freemasons across the nation who have been treated unjustly by their Grand Lodges.
Stand by. Freemason Information will keep you abreast of this story as it develops further.
Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me to “recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:”
Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.
And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.
Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the 3d day of October, A.D. 1789.
1) The point within a circle has a very specific masonic meaning. Is there any biblical or historical reference to this ancient symbol that should be known by us today?
2) We all know that masonically, the parallel lines represent the Holy Saints John, but why are lodges dedicated to the memory of them today? Were there ever lodges dedicated to the memory of any other figures?
Some depictions show a “B” on the outer left side of the left vertical line for John the Baptist and an “E” on the outer right side of the right vertical line. The V.S.L. (Volume of Sacred Law) resides above the circle.
Masonic interpretation
Point = The Individual Brother.
Circle= The boundary line of his duty to God and to man, beyond which a man should not allow his passions, prejudices or interests to betray him.
Parallel Lines=Holy Sts. John
This symbol has Modern and Ancient interpretations:
Modern Christian Interpretation:
The following excerpt is from the book, Facts, Fables and Fantasies of Freemasonry, 1968, 5th Edition, 1993, by Rt. Ex. William Adrian Brown, Missouri Lodge of Research.
The Point Within a Circle denotes St. John the Baptist, whose “day” is June 24th and St. John the Evangelist, whose “day” is December 27th. They are the 2 Patron Saints of Masonry. While many Master Masons are aware of the celebration of these 2 days, few realize why it is cause for celebration within their lodge.
The Lodge of St. John was the primitive Mother Lodge, held in Jerusalem and dedicated to St. John, the Baptist and then to St. John the Evangelist and finally to both. It is called the Lodge of the Holy Saints John of Jerusalem and from this lodge all other lodges descended.”
End of excerpt from Facts, Fables and Fantasies of Freemasonry.
St. John the Baptist: St. John the Baptist was a stern and morally just man. He was a direct descendant from Ishmael’s bloodline. (Ishmael was Abraham’s eldest son, born by his servant, Hagar.) John’s mother, Elizabeth was a relative of Mary, (Jesus’ mother) and both John and Jesus were contemporaries (born about the same time).
John the Baptist baptized Jesus and proclaimed Him the “Lamb of God”. John the Baptist is probably best known for his survivalist instincts, (as we read of his living off of locusts and honey) and for his zealous virtue in keeping God’s laws.
St. John the Evangelist: St. John the Evangelist is said to be the disciple whom Jesus loved. St. John the Evangelist is also known as John the Apostle. He is probably best known as a teacher of knowledge, the author of the Gospel book of John, the book of Revelation in the New Testament and later wrote the 3 Epistles in the Bible called John 1, John 2 and John 3.
He was the only one of the 12 disciples who did not forsake Jesus at the hour of his death. He is remembered as a gentle teacher of brotherly love and was the last surviving apostle, and believed to have died at a very old age (90+), circa 101 A.D. at Ephesus, Turkey, which is about halfway between Jerusalem and Rome. At a later date, a church was built over his tomb and subsequently, a beautiful Moslem Mosque.
There is no historical evidence that either of the Saints John were ever members of the Craft of stonemasons, but because of their righteous lives and their strength of character, both of these Godly men have been adopted as the 2 Patron Saints of Masonry. Originally, lodges were dedicated to God…
Ancient/Historical Interpretation:
Summer and Winter Solstices: In ancient times, festivals were held on these 2 days because they represent the days of the Summer and Winter Solstices, which illustrate cycles of life. Today, our Summer Solstice is June 21st and our Winter Solstice is December 21st. These 2 festivals celebrated the times of both the first fruits in the Spring and the Fall harvest. (I have an entire email dedicated to this topic alone, which I will send out as a supplement to this answer if you request it, Bro. Johnson and Bro. Mauldin have already requested this information…through their enlightening first answers and even more challenging questions. Thanks Brothers.)
These symbols originate from ancient civilizations, long before even King Solomon’s day…brought forward generation by generation via inculcation (teaching) and by the ancient monuments found to be inscribed with these symbols which Egyptologists, geologists and other scholars study in their attempts to understand Man’s history.
Point Within A Circle in Egypt: The 2 vertical lines on either side of the Point Within a Circle symbol date back before Solomon. (who lived nearly 1,000 years before John the Baptist was born.) On early Egyptian monuments have been found the Alpha and Omega, (the symbol of God as the beginning and the end…or, therefore eternal), in the center of the circle bordered by 2 upright, perpendicular parallel serpents. For some, the science and philosophy behind Masonic symbolism is viewed as Freemasonry’s secrets, mysteries, or as a form of secret cultism known only to Freemason scholars. However, this is not true. For those who study attempting to find “Light”, the science and philosophy behind Masonic symbolism can be found in Man’s history. Masonic ritual, too, imitates these proud and ancient religious traditions. For those who seek more Masonic Light about the Point Within A Circle, please check out the reference below, for a more in depth explanation of this ancient symbol. Bro. Albert Mackey, The Symbolism of Freemasonry: Illustrating and Explaining Its Science and Philosophy, Its Legends, Myths and Symbols. In order to truly understanding the ancient wisdom this masonic symbol represents, we have to go back to the Middle chamber where we learned about the 7 liberal arts and sciences. Putting this symbol to use in everyday life requires that you use:
Logic: the 3rd of the 7 Liberal Arts and Sciences. Geometry: the 5th of the 7 Liberal Arts and Sciences Astronomy: the 7th of the 7 Liberal Arts and Science
(There’s that pesky 3,5,7 again!)
3) What does it mean to “square the circle”? How does one use the following formula to “square the circle”? a2+b2=c2
We now come to the last of the puzzlers
47th Problem of Euclid
How To Square Your Square
“In any right triangle, the sum of the squares of the two sides is equal to the square of the hypotenuse.” (the hypotenuse of a right triangle…which is the longest “leg”…or the 5 side of the 3:4:5:). The Right Triangle, below, shows the sides of 3, 4 and 5. The angle created between the 3 (side) and the 4 (side) is the Right angle of the square. A little later, when we begin to build it, (with sticks and string), you will place your sticks at the 3 corners of this Right triangle.
point within a circle
The essence of the Pythagorean Theorem (also called the 47th Problem of Euclid) is about the importance of establishing an architecturally true (correct) foundation based on use of the square. Why is this so important to speculative Masons who only have a symbolic square and not the actual square (the tool) of an operative Mason? The 47th Problem of Euclid is the mathematical equation (the knowledge) that allows a Master Mason to “Square his square when it gets out of square.” So you should be able to now see the connection between these two symbols…you can (mathematically) square the circle, but I was asking a more exoteric question. I was looking for you to see these symbols for what they are, references for us to use to guide our everyday decisions. These two powerful masonic symbols should help you make better decisions, and improve yourself, through constant trying “by the square” to ensure you are a living perpendicular, that does not overstep your societal boundaries, as represented by the point within the circle.
1) Why were the FC wages corn, wine, and oil? (please explain and give biblical reference for the answers)
The answers to the first question can be found in the Old Testament. This obviously comes from the FC degree. The FC were paid according to the law, given to Moses by God and enshrined into all aspects of their Jewish customs and culture. Solomon was a Jewish King, and a descendant of Abraham, Isaac, Musa, etc…and therefore was going to be aware of and observant of those customs, traditions and Laws handed down to him from his ancestors.
Deuteronomy 14:23 – And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
2 Chronicles 31:5 – And as soon as the commandment came abroad, the children of Israel brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things brought they in abundantly
Genesis 27:28 – Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven, and the fatness of the earth, and plenty of corn and wine.
Numbers 18:12 – All the best of the oil, and all the best of the vintage, and of the grain, the first-fruits of them which they give unto Jehovah, to thee have I given them.
How does this (particularly the corn) relate to the 1st or EA degree? (please explain and give biblical references as well.
The answer to the second question can be found by first reviewing the Book of Ruth, looking specifically to Naomi’s instructions to Ruth about how to get food for the family. This is important, because it shows that Naomi was well aware of the ancient custom among her people of caring for the sick, elderly and the needy. This reference in the 1st degree, taken from our discussion of the Book of Ruth, ties in a coupl of different ways…First, it serves as foreshadowing for the upcoming second degree lesson of the middle chamber…”glean corn from the fields” is almost like Naomi and Ruth know that they need both physical and spiritual nourishment, that the corn can symbolize. Secondly, this story lays the foundation or “ground floor” for the story of King Solomon and the building of KST by highlighting the wisdom and goodness found in Boaz, one of King Solomon’s direct ancestors. So this is part of the layer upon layer of meaning that can be found “hidden” in plain sight in Masonry! The gleaning custom is laid out and further illustrated the in the following biblical references (In some you will see that even the Son of God, follows in this ancient and powerful custom, tradition and law):
Deuteronomy 23:25 – When thou comest into the standing corn of thy neighbour, then thou mayest pluck the ears with thine hand; but thou shalt not move a sickle unto thy neighbour’s standing corn.
Ruth 2:14 – And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left.
Ruth 2:2 – And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.
Matthew 12:1 – At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the Sabbath. His disciples were hungry and began to pick some heads of grain and eat them.
Luke 6:1 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grain fields, and his disciples began to pick some heads of grain, rub them in their hands and eat the kernels.
Mark 2:23 – One Sabbath Jesus was going through the grain fields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some heads of grain.
For a really good read on this topic, I would definitely recommend that you follow this link to read about Corn, Wine, and Oil.
Now For Puzzler #8
Brethren, How many of us have looked critically at our lives and gave an accounting for where we are? How many of us are truly living our lives like that point within a circle, bounded by two parallel lines? I coul probably go on to ask someting like, “what does the point wthin a circle symbolize?” and no doubt I would be swamped with answers. But what I would like to do is go one step further, to delve deeper and look beyond the esoteric meaning. Here are the questions for today’s puzzler:
The point within a circle has a very specific masonic meaning. Is there any biblical or historical reference to this ancient symbol that should be known by us today?
We all know that masonically, the parallel lines represent the Holy Saints John, but why are lodges dedicated to th memory of them today? Were there ever lodges dedicated to the memory of any other figures?
What does it mean to “square the circle”? How does one use the folowing formula to “square the circle”? a2+b2=c2
The first issue of The Texas Prince Hall Freemason is out and it is impressive. Grand Editor Brother Burrell D. Parmer deserves much credit for putting together a great mix of wonderful pictures and great stories.
The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Texas used to have a publication of the printed variety as many other jurisdictions in Prince Hall and Mainstream Masonry still do today. The printed publication is more costly to produce and more difficult to distribute than an electronic publication and because of that fact Prince Hall Texas’s printed publication gradually faded away into oblivion.
But Grand Master Wilbert M. Curtis was determined that his Grand Lodge publication be revived in some manner. After much discussion it was determined that the best vehicle to revive this needed communication tool would be an E-Publication attached to the Grand Lodge website. The days of a large number of Brothers not having E-Mail has gone by the boards and any Lodge in the state has the capabilities to print out a Texas Prince Hall Freemason for any Brother in need.
Unlike some Grand Lodge publications I have seen that are a shill for the Grand Lodge and/or mainly a distribution of “what’s happening in your Lodge,” The Texas Prince Hall Freemason has a wide variety of content, from Masonic happenings across the state like cornerstone laying, special days of celebration and charitable endeavors to philosophical, inspirational and educational stories. There is an article on Prince Hall Texas’s first Latino Worshipful Master; a book review, an article on what the Guild is doing and a Historical Corner. There are editorials on how to increase membership and grow a Lodge.
There are articles outside the jurisdiction – one on the new Prince Hall monument erected on the Cambridge, Massachusetts Common and another on the remembrance of Connecticut’s first recognition of Prince Hall written by a Connecticut Brother.
The publication is 43 pages long and it is chock full of pictures, photographs that were professionally taken. The article on Texas Celebrates Prince Hall Americanism Day is a collage of six pictures taken from various jurisdictions in the state and overseas. The next quarterly publication of the Texas Prince Hall Freemason could very well be 75 pages long without adding much to the cost of production.
The secret to success here is in the excellence of production and the low cost and ease of distribution of an E-Publication. There has been no sacrifice in quality by going to an E-Publication that has unlimited possibilities without being subject to budget restraints.
Besides the hard work of Parmer and his staff what makes the excellence of this publication is our Grand Master Wilbert M. Curtis who had a vision of the past concerning the recreation of this publication and who has a vision for our future in his message that leads off this first E-Publication. A Grand Master who has vision is one who will bring dreams into reality. He is also a Grand Master who has most likely seen the film Field of Dreams and through his vision will make the phrase “If you build it they will come,” a reality also.
The latest issue of Freemasonry Today, the official journal of the United Grand Lodge of England, contains an article on the Bordeaux Conference. This was a three day gathering at the University of Bordeaux III and the Museum of Aquitaine in Bordeaux held in July of this year.
The theme of the conference was Women and Freemasonry Since The Enlightenment and Freemasonry Today tells us that it was organized by:
“The conference was organised by Professor Cécile Révauger of the University of Bordeaux III with the support of the Regional Council of Aquitaine, the University of Paris IV Sorbonne and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), the University of Rome (Sapienza), the Free University of Brussels, the University of Sheffield and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).”
The conference’s first presentation was by UCLA Professor of History, Margaret Jacob, certainly no stranger to regular readers here on Freemason Information. She brought all up to date on the latest findings concerning women’s Freemasonry in its earliest stages of Europe in the 1700s.
And right behind Jacob was a presentation of the female Masons in the French Royal family before the French Revolution delivered by Dr. Janet Burke, associate Dean of Barrett College, Arizona State University. It was revealing to all when Burke informed the conference that Josephine Bonaparte became the head of French female Freemasonry.
Freemasonry Today goes on to lament the fact that women in Freemasonry are not considered serious Masonic research in the British Isles and goes out of its way to mention the other Brutish scholars who made presentations – Diane Clements, Susan Snell, Dr. Robert Collis, Dr. Robert Peter and Professor Andrew Prescott. As this is an official publication of the UGLE, perhaps the Grand Lodge sentiment across the channel is shifting to a more benign attitude towards female Freemasonry and Co-Masonry. One can only speculate what winds of change might drift across the Atlantic to place American female Freemasonry in a more acceptable light.
What can be said is that author Brother Karen Kidd is working diligently on a new book which will be the subject of further enlightenment as soon as Freemason Information receives a copy.
In the meantime I am reminded of this poignant axiom – Nothing stays the same, change is always happening.
1. Deuteronomy 23:21-23; Ecclesiastes 5:4-5; Numbers 30:2 are reminders of the seriousness of the obligation (vow) that we made (multiple times in each degree of our Masonic journey), not only to each other but to the fraternity, in the presence of the GAOTU. Before we violate our oaths, we really should remember that “stronger tie” that was formed. If you were not serious about Masonry, then you shouldn’t have taken the oath. Quite simply, since you have given your word, live up to it brothers. See the full biblical references below:
Deuteronomy 23:21-23 – When you make a vow to the LORD your God, you shall not delay to pay it, for it would be sin in you, and the LORD your God will surely require it of you. However, if you refrain from vowing, it would not be sin in you. You shall be careful to perform what goes out from your lips, just as you have voluntarily vowed to the LORD your God, what you have promised.
Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 – When you make a vow to God, do not be late in paying it; for He takes no delight in fools Pay what you vow! It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.
Numbers 30:2 – If a man makes a vow to the LORD, or takes an oath to bind himself with a binding obligation, he shall not violate his word; he shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth.
2. James 2:20 Is a throwback to our learning about Jacob’s Ladder. It represents principal rung of Jacob’s Ladder and is one of the “three religious virtues-FAITH, HOPE, CHARITY”. This reference is about FAITH. But it also admonishes us to take our faith one step further and put it into action. Just as it is not enough to “say” or “believe” we are Masons, we must forever strive to use our working tools, bettering ourselves, and in doing so, bettering our communities. Masonry is not static or passive…it is active and working!
James 2:20 – But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless?
3. Genesis 3:7 and Acts 19:12 are probably the most straightforward of these. These verses are actually the only two bible verses where the wearing of “aprons” is mentioned. (KJV)
Genesis 3:7 – And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.
Acts 19:12 – And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.
4. Genesis 3:22-24; Joshua 5:13-15; Nehemiah 7:1-3 really are the biblical authority for the one position in the lodge that we all have to pass by upon entering a just and duly constituted lodge that is open for business. His job is to watch for the approach of cowans AND eavesdroppers and see that none pass or re-pass except those with the permission of the Master of the Lodge. Of course this is the biblical reference for the TYLER. His job is to keep out the unworthy.
Genesis 3:22-24 – And the LORD God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: Therefore the LORD God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
Joshua 5:13-15 – And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my Lord unto his servant? And the captain of the LORD’s host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so.
Nehemiah 7:1-3 – Now it came to pass, when the wall was built, and I had set up the doors, and the porters and the singers and the Levites were appointed, That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace, charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many. And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against his house.
5. Exodus 3:13-15 This one is a little harder, because it requires that you make an association to something that we see every time we meet, but most often it does not register on our radar: the letter “G”. See we are taught that it is the first letter of the word Geometry and ALSO is the first letter we use in the word “GOD”. So this passage is a wink at our teaching, because when Moses asked God directly, what shall a have my people call you, God gave him an answer. That is the ineffable name is represented by the letter “G” in our lodges. It serves as a suitable substitute for the answer God gave us in Exodus!
Exodus 3:13-15 – And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, the LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.
And now for Puzzler #7
After you gained admission through the inner door of KST, you were received by the WM, who informed you that you had arrived at a place representing the Middle Chamber of King Solomon’s Temple. In that place you told that you would be received and recorded as such (a FC); which record was then made by the Secretary (by the orders of the Worshipful Master), and then you were presented with the wages of a FC…
Now, I will not give you some simple question, like, “what are the wages of a FC and what do they represent?” (The corn of nourishment, the wine of refreshment, and the oil of joy –Peace, harmony and joy). We can probably recite the answer to this in our sleep. I want to ask only:
Why were the FC wages corn, wine, and oil? (please explain and give biblical reference for the answers)
How does this (particularly the corn) relate to the 1st or EA degree? (please explain and give biblical references as well.
Again, this one is short and sweet, but beware of pitfalls…
1) Where was GM Hiram Abiff from (his land of origin)? – He came from Tyre whether from Napthali/Dan is still debated. Modern Tyre lies in Lebanon, near its southern border, and forms the country’s fourth-largest city.
He was the “master workman” whom King Hiram of Tyre sent to Solomon. He was the son of a widow of Dan, and of a Tyrian father, who cast the magnificent brazen works for Solomon’s temple in clay-beds in the valley of Jordan, between Succoth and Zarthan.
Historical Reference:
In his, “Antiquities of the Jews” (Chapter 3:76), Josephus Flavius in his refers to Hiram as an Artificer. “Now Solomon sent for an artificer out of Tyre, whose name was Huram: he was by birth of the tribe of Naphtali, on his mother’s side (for she was of that tribe); but his father was Ur, of the stock of the Israelites.”
Biblical Reference:
1 Kings 7:14 (NKJV) – He was the son of a widow from the tribe of Naphtali, and his father was a man of Tyre, a bronze worker; he was filled with wisdom and understanding and skill in working with all kinds of bronze work. So he came to King Solomon and did all his work.
2) What is the name given to him by Josephus, biblically speaking? – The names given to him are Huram Abi or Abdamen or Abdemon which has been alternatively thought to mean “my father” , or if used as a proper name, or it may perhaps be a title of distinction and the equivalent to “master.”
2 Chr. 2:13 (NKJV) – And now I have sent a skillful man, endowed with understanding, Huram my master craftsman
2 Chr. 4:16 (NKJV) – also the pots, the shovels, the forks––and all their articles Huram his master craftsman made of burnished bronze for King Solomon for the house of the LORD.
3) Why does this fact (that he needed to go and “lay out” the next days” work on the trestle board) appear to be in direct contradiction to the description of the building of KST in the books of Kings and even from the first and second degree rituals?
Well to be precise, why would he even have to go and lay out the next day’s work when the temple is very nearly done? I would think that the closer you are to completion, the LESS the need for a plan. Biblically, we are told that not only were the plans drawn and the specifications approved, but every other preparation was made for completing the work before the foundations were laid; Remember, this was originally David’s task but as passed on to King Solomon (Check out the entire 1 Chr. 22 (NKJV) to get up to speed on this, if you need verification). But even if the plans had not been previously laid before the foundation, the stone and timber were carved, marked, and numbered before they were removed from the quarry and the forest; and, hence nothing was required, when the materials were conveyed to Jerusalem, but skilled labor to make it perfect and complete from foundation to capstone.
4) How is it possible for GM Hiram Abiff to enter into the “Sanctum Sanctorum” if the Temple was unfinished?
Our rituals and legend tells us that at the hour of high 12 (1200hrs for military men like me), the men were called from labor to refreshment, then GM Hiram Abiff would retire to the Most Holy Place (Sanctum Sanctorum), to draw his plans and designs, and offer up his prayers and thanksgiving. This could only be accomplished if the Sanctum Sanctorum was somehow finished before the outer portions of the KST. That is the best I can come up with. Nothing that I have read tells us that this is the case…so the question remains, for now!
5) If the Sanctum sanctorum was finished (completed it was supposed to house the Ark of the Covenant), would he have been allowed into its presence there?
So for arguments sake, we will assume that the Sanctum Sanctorum is completed. If it was finished, GM Hiram Abiff would not have been permitted to enter into it. According to God’s law and Jewish religious tradition, only one living person could do this and even then he could only gain access to the Holy of Holies (home to the Ark of the Covenant) only once a year, on the day of atonement. No one was permitted to enter but the H. P. (High Priest). This place was considered so holy in fact, that when the HP went into the Sanctum Sanctorum, he had a rope tied around his waist, so that he might be pulled out of the Sanctum Santorum in case his sudden death should occur while he was inside.
Under the law of Moses the presiding officer of the Aaronic Priesthood was called the high priest. The office was hereditary and came through the firstborn among the family of Aaron, Aaron himself being the first high priest of the Aaronic order. The office was usually a lifetime calling and it was restored to the family of Eleazar in the person of Zadok (High Priest during the reign of both king David and King Solomon).
Especially check out the way his consecration differed from that of ordinary priests in anointing and robing: on the high priests’ head alone was the anointing oil poured
BTW, The epistle to the Hebrews discusses at some length the manner in which Jesus Christ is the great High Priest, of whom all the others were pre-figures (Heb. 5: 1-10; Heb. 9: 28).
6) Is this story consistent with what the bible records about what happened to GM Hiram Abiff before, during and after the building of KST?
This legend of Hiram Abiff (Huram Abi, Abdemon, etc.), on the surface, does not appear to be consistent with the biblical/historical account. But maybe we have to dig a little deeper. The Holy Bible NEVER mentions the death of GM Hiram Abiff. According to the works of Ancient Hebrew historian, Josephus Flavius, GM Hiram Abiff not only lived to finish all the work, but also, returned to Tyre, and died there at a good old age.
Some people believe that the allegory contained in the story of GM Hiram Abiff is, at the very least, a composite of the three biblical figures, Betzalel (one of the wisest biblical figures), Adoniram (of the greatest managers with excellent supervisory skills) and Huram Abi (great metal worker) sprinkled on top of those is the knowledge of a Master Mason.
So, whatever you believe about this story, there is room for numerous interpretations of the allegory and they should always lead us farther down the road, toward more light!
Does this suggest that KST was built inside out, I may spend a little time on this.?
As for question #5, I always thought KST including the Sanctum Sanctorum were compartmentalized. Therefore you could enter a portion of the Sanctum Sanctorum ( by one definition of Sanctum Sanctorum – a most private place) and still not be in the presence of the Ark of the Convenent ( by the second definition of sanctum sanctorum – the most holy of holies). Just a couple of thoughts
In question 4, I wasn’t suggesting that the temple was built from the inside out, I was trying to apply a logic puzzle to the enigma of GM HA being in the Sanctum Sanctorum of the unfinished Temple…IF the Temple construction took place as the bible states, THEN it is physically impossible for him to be in there at that time. Therefore, the only plausible way for him to have retired there, would be for the Sanctum Sanctorum to have been completed before the rest of the temple.
Leaving aside this for the moment, and assuming that the Santum Sanctorum was available, as the ritual says,the more important question is actually whether or not he would have been allowed in there…The bible tells us that only the High Priest, Zadok from the house of Eleazar during the building of KST–King Solomon supposedly deposed Abiathar and placed him as HP, was allowed inside (see Exodus 28:1-2; Exodus 29:4-5; Leviticus 6:15)once a year, on Yom Kippur (Hebrews 9:3-7)… This is a truly apparent contradiction that compels us all to look deeper.
Your diagram is great is explaining what you describe, but I would like to point out that in ancient and modern Hebrew the name Beit HamiKdash actually translates into “The Sanctified House” and is usually used to mean the entire temple structure. More specifically, the Hebrew name for Sanctum Sanctorum/ Holy of Holies is Kodesh Kodashim.
Puzzler #6
Brothers, As we travel through masonry on our quest to find more light, many times, we concentrate on ensuring that we know and understand our ritual inside out. That is a very noble and worthy goal. However, we must not forget our Rule and Guide ( one of the great lights). So this week I thought I would try something slightly different. I will give you some passages from the bible ( well technically, I will only give you the references, you will have to look them up) and then you are to tell where it applies in the Ritual (what degree, what portion of the ceremony, etc.)! This should be a lot of fun, as some of these you know already, while some, you may not be as familiar with. Here we go: Deuteronomy 23:21-23 Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 Numbers 30:2 James 2:20 Genesis 3:7 Acts 19:12 Genesis 3;24 Joshua 5:13-15 Nehemiah 7:1-3 Exodus 3:13-15.
Once again West Virginia is in the spotlight of Masonic news and as usual it’s all bad. This Grand Lodge is the only US GL to expel a Junior Past Master for his policies while in office. That foolish act has resulted in a civil court case that will start on 12/6/2010.
So for arguments sake, we will assume that the Sanctum Sanctorum is completed. If it was finished, GM Hiram Abiff would not have been permitted to enter into it. According to God’s law and Jewish religious tradition, only one living person could do this and even then he could only gain access to the Holy of Holies (home to the Ark of the Covenant) only once a year, on the day of atonement. No one was permitted to enter but the H. P. (High Priest). This place was considered so holy in fact, that when the HP went into the Sanctum Sanctorum, he had a rope tied around his waist, so that he might be pulled out of the Sanctum Santorum in case his sudden death should occur while he was inside.