Freemasonry: Rituals, Symbols and History of the Secret Society - Softcover

Stavish, Mark

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0738711489 ISBN 13: 9780738711485

Publisher: Llewellyn Publications,U.S., 2007

Synopsis

As one of the world's most famous mysterious societies, Freemasons remain the largest fraternal organization in the world.  Some of the most heroic and creative thinkers in history belonged to the order, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Goethe, and Mozart.  What links the philosophy of these great minds with the estimated four million Freemasons who actively maintain this ancient brotherhood today? 

From sacred geometry to legendary Masonic rites, author and Freemason Mark Stavish divulges the philosophy of Masonry and the moral code that all Masons share.  Learn how Masonry's higher degrees, particularly Scottish Rite, were influenced by occult beliefs and practices, and how Masonry is linked to King Solomon, Gothic architecture, magic practice, alchemy, and Qabala.  

With exercises and suggested readings, this fascinating exploration is an essential learning tool that will answer questions and shed light on other Masonic mysteries, including initiation and the Lost Word.

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About this title

Review

"Freemasonry is one of the most comprehensive studies written on the esoteric aspects of Freemasonry in the past half-century. The author is a recognized leader in the field of Western magic traditions and approaches the analysis of Freemasonry from a fresh, nontraditional viewpoint."--Charles S. Canning, M.Ed., Director, Harry C. Trexler Masonic Library

"Like a drowsy lion, Freemasonry arouses in the outsider both curiosity and mistrust. This landmark book anatomizes the creature without apology or mystification. At the same time, it summons insiders to revive their moribund craft in all the grandeur of its original mission to humanity. Mark Stavish, whose work is informed by a profound knowledge of esoteric traditions, has earned gratitude from both sides."--Joscelyn Godwin, Professor of Music and Medieval & Renaissance Studies, Colgate University, author of The Theosophical Enlightenment, The Pagan Dream of the Renaissance, and other works

About the Author

Mark Stavish (Pennsylvania) has been a long-time student of esotericism and is a frequent lecturer on ancient occult knowledge. Founder of the Institute for Hermetic Studies, he is the author of numerous articles on Western esotericism. In 2001 he established the Louis Claude de St. Martin Fund, a non-profit dedicated to advancing the study and practice of Western Esotericism. He has also served as a consultant to print and broadcast media and several documentaries. He holds undergraduate degrees in Theology and Communications and a Master's in Counseling.

Edition details

• Publisher: Llewellyn Publications,U.S.
• Publication date: 2007
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0738711489
• ISBN 13: 9780738711485
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240