You might have often wondered about Freemasonry and its diverse branches such as the Scottish Rite. In everyday conversations and popular media, these terms become muddled and are frequently used interchangeably. This article is all about distinguishing between the two, aiding you in understanding the nuanced differences between general Masonry and the specific branch of Scottish Rite.
Overview of Masons
Understanding the Freemasonry
Freemasonry, simply known as Masonry, is one of the world’s most ancient and respected fraternities. Since its earliest recorded existence in the late 14th century, Masonry has shown a commitment to personal growth and social betterment. As a freemason, you will be embarking on a journey of self-discovery, participating in age-old ceremonies designed to assist you in your intellectual and moral evolution.
Key principles and teachings of the Masons
At the heart of Masonry are key principles and teachings that revolve around tenets of brotherly love, relief and truth. The Masons promote kindness in the home, honesty in business, courtesy in society, fairness in work, resistance towards the wicked and pity for the unfortunate. Through symbolic ceremonies, members are reminded of timeless moral truths, the acceptance of which can enrich their lives.
The structure of Freemasonry
The structure of Freemasonry is organized into three fundamental degrees – Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason, each conferring different roles and responsibilities. It symbolizes youth, manhood, and age respectively. Above these are additional degrees which are part of the appendant bodies of Freemasonry, each with its own unique system and structure.
Rituals and symbols of Masonry
Freemasonry is rich in rituals and symbols, each embodying beautiful lessons. The square and compasses, the most widely recognized symbol of Masonry, represent virtue, wisdom and the gradual unfolding of life’s purpose. The rituals, which are carried out during lodge meetings, are designed to impart moral and ethical lessons.
Overview of Scottish Rites
Understanding the Scottish Rite
The Scottish Rite is an appendant body of Freemasonry. It offers additional degrees beyond the three foundational degrees of Freemasonry, featuring a distinctive system of 33 degrees – the last being honorary. As a member, your voyage through the Scottish Rite degrees can provide you with further insight into Masonry’s allegories and lessons.
Key principles and teachings of the Scottish Rite
Scottish Rite Masonry aims to increase knowledge, widen understanding, promote human welfare, and advance moral, intellectual, and spiritual enlightenment. It extends the philosophical and ethical lessons found in blue lodge Masonry and heavily emphasizes the principle of “Pike’s Peak” which stands for human progress, freedom of intellectual inquiry, respect for human dignity, and faith in God.
The structure of Scottish Rite
The Scottish Rite operates under a Supreme Council and is organized into four ‘bodies’ or tiers. These are Lodge of Perfection (4th-14th degrees), Chapter of Rose Croix (15th-18th degrees), Council of Kadosh (19th-30th degrees), and the Consistory (31st-32nd degrees). The 33rd degree is granted as an honorary degree to Masons who have significantly contributed to Freemasonry or society.
Rituals and symbols of the Scottish Rite
In the Scottish Rite, rituals are dramatic events where biblical and historical lessons are imparted. The double-headed eagle, the symbol of the Scottish Rite, implies the dual nature and holy sovereignty of the Order. The 32nd Degree Mason, also known as Master of Royal Secret, signifies the ultimate exploration of the Scottish Rite wisdom.
Origins and Historical Context
History of Freemasonry
The origins of Freemasonry can be traced back to the stonemasons of the medieval period. By the late 1600s and early 1700s, these operative masons started to accept non-stonemasons, evolving into speculative Masonry. Freemasonry then spread worldwide, playing key roles in significant historical events.
History of the Scottish Rite
Scottish Rite originated in France in the 18th century, and the name ‘Scottish’ has no relation to Scotland. Historians suggest the name might have been adopted to add an aura of antiquity and attractiveness. The Scottish Rite was officially recognized in America in 1801, with Charleston becoming its mother jurisdiction.
Connection and divergence of the two
While both Masonry and Scottish Rite originate from the same fraternity, they’ve diverged over centuries into separate entities. Freemasonry is the foundational base, whereas the Scottish Rite is an appendant body that offers additional degrees. However, both share the same core principles and commitment towards personal growth and societal betterment.
Membership
Criteria for becoming a Mason
To become a Mason, you must be of sound character, at least 18 years old, have faith in a Supreme Being, and be motivated by a favorable impression of Freemasonry. Prospective members must be free born and should apply by their own free will and accord.
Criteria for entering the Scottish Rite
Entry into the Scottish Rite requires prior membership in Freemasonry. You need to have obtained the third degree, that of Master Mason, in a recognized blue lodge. After that, you can petition for Scottish Rite membership.
Differences in the membership process
While anyone meeting the criteria can join Freemasonry, only Masons can join the Scottish Rite. The rites, initiations and commitments for each are unique, offering different experiences and teachings.
Degree Systems
Degree system of Freemasonry
Freemasonry has a three-degree system – Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason. These degrees symbolize stages of life.
Degree system of the Scottish Rite
Scottish Rite has a degree system extending from the 4th to the 33rd degree, each reflecting a greater depth into Masonic teachings. The 33rd degree is honorary.
Comparing degrees of both Masonry and Scottish Rite
While Freemasonry’s degrees are considered milestones in a Mason’s personal development, Scottish Rite degrees further expand on the philosophies introduced in blue lodge Masonry. However, a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason isn’t ‘higher’ than a Master Mason – they’ve simply taken different paths of Masonic education.
Hierarchical Structures
Hierarchy within Masonic lodges
Each Masonic lodge is headed by a Worshipful Master, assisted by Senior and Junior Wardens, Deacons, and Stewards. The hierarchy ensures the smooth functioning of the Lodge and adherence to Masonic principles.
Hierarchy within Scottish Rite bodies
In the Scottish Rite, hierarchy consists of various titles and positions across the four bodies, with the Supreme Council at the apex. The Council confers the title of ‘Sovereign Grand Inspector General’ to the 33rd-degree recipients.
Key differences between the two structures
While the structures of Freemasonry and Scottish Rite are similar, they diverge in the complexity of roles, titles, and responsibilities – with Scottish Rite having a broader hierarchical structure.
Rites and Ceremonies
Overview of Masonic ceremonies
Masonic ceremonies, including rites of passage and annual installations, are solemn, meaningful, and designed to impart moral lessons. These are carefully choreographed and full of symbolism.
Overview of Scottish Rite ceremonies
Scottish Rite ceremonies are dramatic performances and build on the philosophical teachings of blue lodge Masonry. They are conducted in a theatrical setting and meant to stimulate introspection.
Contrasting the rites and ceremonies of both orders
While both orders’ ceremonies are rooted in shared principles, the Scottish Rite extends Masonic teachings with added dramatization and complexity in their ceremonies.
Symbols and Terminologies
Common symbols and their meanings in Freemasonry
Symbols like the square and compasses, plumb line, and level are common in Freemasonry, each symbolizing an ethical or moral lesson.
Common symbols and their meanings in Scottish Rite
In Scottish Rite, the double-headed eagle, Teutonic cross, and the Latin motto ‘Deus Meumque Jus’ (God and my right) are unique symbols used in addition to those used in blue lodge Masonry.
Understanding the differences in terminologies
While Freemasonry and Scottish Rite share some common symbols and language, there are unique symbols and terminologies to each. For instance, the term ‘blue lodge’ is common in Freemasonry, while ‘Valley’ is typical in Scottish Rite.
Influence and Impact
Influence and contributions of Freemasons
Freemasons have significantly influenced society in areas like education, charity, and public service. Many influential historical figures, including several U.S. Presidents and great thinkers, were Masons.
Influence and contributions of Scottish Rite
Scottish Rite has had noteworthy influence through its philanthropic endeavors, educational scholarships, and leadership in community service.
Comparing the societal impact of both groups
Both Freemasonry and Scottish Rite contributed immeasurably to society’s betterment, their impacts being uniquely felt based on their respective community initiatives and charitable habits.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Dispelling myths and misconceptions about Freemasonry
Freemasonry is often surrounded by myths about exclusivity, secret society, and occult symbolism. It’s not a secret society but a society with secrets, holding true to the principles of brotherhood, charity, and truth.
Dispelling myths and misconceptions about Scottish Rite
For Scottish Rite, misconceptions about elitism and being a religion are common. It’s not a religion or substitute for one but a fraternity promoting moral and philosophical teachings.
Comparison and evaluation of both orders based on facts
Both Freemasonry and Scottish Rite, while similar in purpose and somewhat in structure, offer unique experiences. It’s vital to dispel misconceptions and evaluate them based on their rich histories, teachings and societal contributions. They do not vie for superiority but complement one another in the vast fraternity of Freemasonry, offering different paths to self-improvement and societal impact.
