Brother seeker of enlightenment,
We have just completed a study of the Tenth Degree and will move on to the Eleventh Degree at our next session which will be held on Wednesday, October 17th with a light dinner at 6:30 PM followed by a discussion of the 11th degree, “Elu of the Twelve.” As before the resource material for this and all subsequent degrees is as listed below. It is suggested you bring your copy of “A Bridge to Light” to class and study the 11th degree beforehand at home.
- Morals and Dogma by Albert Pike, 33°
- A Bridge to Light by Dr. Rex R. Hutchens, 33°, G.C.
- Clausen’s Commentaries on Morals and Dogma by Henry C. Clausen, 33°, Past Sovereign Grand Commander
- Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor and Guide by Arturo de Hoyas, 33°, G.C.
Important Symbols:
- The Flaming Heart
- The twelve Elus
- Swords with points touching in a circle
- “Vincere aut Mori” [“Death Rather Than Dishonor”]
- “Pro Patria et Populo” [“For My Native Land and its People”]
Lessons:
- Life is a school. Masonry is work.
- Be earnest, true and reliable. Be a champion of the people.
- Mankind constitutes one great brotherhood.
Topics for Discussion:
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- The most striking emblem of the degree is the flaming heart. What are the possible symbolic meanings and associations and in what way does this reflect Masonic ideals?
- Contrast Pike’s concept of virtue in Morals and Dogma with that of Aristotle from his Ethics.
- One of the issues in the selection of the 12 Elus is the question, “Who shall guard the guardians?” Give an example of who the chosen might be to provide and effective check and balance against negligence or apathy in an overseers role.
- How has the positive welfare state completed Pike’s notion of the obligations of a Mason as being part of the brotherhood of man? Has it failed to do so?
- How do we apply Solomon’s lesson that freedom of the state can only come from overcoming ignorance, tyranny and teaching tolerance to the populace?
- Many people regard poverty as an excuse for wrongdoing. However, Pike saw it as an opportunity to learn poverty’s great lesson, namely fortitude, cheerfulness, contentment and implicit confidence in God’s Providence. Discuss.
Looking forward to an interesting and rewarding session,
Ill:. Harry Eisenberg, 33°
Valley of Orlando eNews 