Brother seeker of enlightenment,

Our Educational Session for October has been cancelled. In November we will move on to the Twentieth Degree in the Council of Kadosh at our next session which will be held on Wednesday the 20th at 7:00 p.m. We are now getting into the philosophical degrees so this should provide lively discussion and a lot of fun. Even if you have not attended before each session is a separate degree, so there is no need to feel that you have to have prior experience to enjoy the class.

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 degree beforehand at home.

Important Symbols

  • Nine lights
  • The Tetragrammaton
  • Triangle, square and octagon

Lessons:

  • Dispense light and knowledge
  • Example is the best teaching method known
  • Truth, justice and toleration are indispensable qualities for a Master of the Lodge.

Topics for Discussion

  • Compare the two value systems individuals use to determine their personal standard of ethics. First, it’s alright because everybody does it, or second, the acceptable thing is determined by an individual’s code of ethics without regard to others.
  • Compare the approaches to an unjust and ill-conceived law; obey but work to change it, or disobey but be willing to accept the consequences.
  • How do the virtues of truth, justice and toleration aid us in correcting our human nature to err in judging others?
  • It is said that a Master is a “sectarian of no specific creed.” What does this mean in regard to the universality of religion?
  • There are two Kabalistic sephirot mentioned in this degree, justice and mercy. In Masonry they are depicted as strength and loving-kindness. Describe the balance between these two forces and which implements of the Blue Lodge correspond to each.
  • What in your opinion is the fundamental obligation of the Master of a Lodge?
  • The most meaningful line in the ritual is the answer given by the candidate to the question, “How will you be recognized as a Grand Master?” The answer being, “By my zeal to rebuild the Temple.” What is being mystically referred to in this statement and its symbolic significance to your personal journey in Masonry?
  • The Master should prepare men to govern themselves. Discuss the fundamental requisites of self-governance in the context of living in and preserving a free society.

Looking forward to an interesting and rewarding session,

Ill. Harry Eisenberg, 33°