The following books are recommended reading for members of the Philosophical Society. This page will be updated as new publications are reviewed.

   
   

UNDERSTANDING MANHOOD IN AMERICA - Freemasonry's Enduring Path to the Mature Masculine by Robert G. Davis

"This is an important book for anyone interested in a better understanding of manhood and what it takes for men to achieve the mature masculine in their lives"
Ken Roberts, Anchor Communications


Available from: Anchor Communications, LLC

A Bridge to Light
by Dr. Rex R. Hutchens, 33°, G.C
.

An introduction to the Scottish Rite's Degrees and symbolism, this book is the most popular exposition available, by one of the Rite's most articulate philosophers and writers. Highly recommended by the Grand Historian.

Available from the Supreme Council website
Format: Softbound; illustrated. 340 pages
 
Price:  $10.00
Pub. Date: December 1988


Born In Blood - The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry
by John J. Robinson


Based on years of research, this probing book solves the last remaining mysteries of the Masons--their secret words, symbols, and allegories whose true meanings had been lost in antiquity but whose origins can be traced to Norman French, the language spoken by the Knights' Templar. Demonstrates how, more than 600 years later the heritage of the Knights Templar lives on in the largest and most successful secret society in the history of the world: Freemasonry.


Available from Barnes and Noble Bookstores
Format: Hardcover
Price: $24.95
Pub. Date: January 1989


Clausen's Commentary on Morals and Dogma
by Henry C. Clausen, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander (1969-85)


First published in 1974, this companion to Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma was written by the Sovereign Grand Commander. The text attempts to answer the question: "How can Masonry release man's inner capacities?' It is designed as a valuable teaching tool that will heighten perception and awareness toward living in Socrates' famous phrase, "the examined life." Designed not to supplant Morals and Dogma but to stimulate its research as a source of knowledge and inspiration


Morals and Dogma
by Albert Pike, 33°, Sovereign Grand Commander (1859-91), author/compiler
.

This classic text, first published in 1871, is an expansion of the lectures which accompanied Albert Pike's first revision of the Scottish Rite's rituals. Divided into thirty-two chapters (covering the 1°-32°), Pike explores comparative religion, Hermeticism, the Kabbalah, morality, mysticism, mythology, and the nature of symbolism. Hardbound (only used copies available), 861 pages 218 page Digest-Index by T.W. Hugo

Available from Barnes and Noble Bookstores 
Format: Softcover
Price:  $50.00

Pub. Date: March 2004



The Meaning of Masonry
by W. L. Wilmshurst (1867 - 1939)


Freemasonry has perplexed outsiders throughout the ages. The Order's arcane symbols and mystical doctrines have seemed impenetrable at times. In The Meaning of Masonry, W. L. Wilmshurst (1867-1939), himself a member of the Order in Britain, explains in layman's terms and without soapbox arguments - the history of Freemasonry. The book's five chapters were originally written as papers intended for the eyes of Masonic Order members only - and indication that insiders as well as outsiders have been in need of at least some clarification of the theories and practices of the organization.

Available from Barnes and Noble Bookstores
Format: Hardcover
Price: $5.98
Pub. Date: December 1998

Freemasonry: A Journey through Ritual and Symbol
by W. Kirk MacNaulty


"The graphs are beautiful and every Mason would enjoy this. However, the text and history are indeed scholarly. I would recommend this to all my Masonic Brethren."
John Chapin 32deg PM Maugus Hill Lodge Af&AM, Natick, MA

Available from Barnes and Noble Bookstores
Format: Paperback
Price: $19.95
Pub. Date: August 1991


Pillars Of Wisdom - The Writings Of Albert Pike
by Dr. Rex R. Hutchens, 33°, G.C.


A collection of concise, readable essays gathers Pike's main themes.

Available from the Supreme Council website
Format: Softbound; illustrated; 368 pages 
 
Price: $17.00
Pub. Date: October 1995


de Architectura - Marcus Vitruvius Pollo
translation by Bill Thayer


"For any Freemason questioning the antiquity of our Brotherhood or even questioning the link between architecture and the liberal arts as prescribed in the original ‘Blue Lodge’ degrees, this writing will certainly be of value. The writings of Marcus Vitruvius Pollo, inscribed in the first century B.C., are a startling revelation of the early link between architecture and music, philosophy, history, geometry, mathematics, and physics which will make any Freemason reading such question if our Guild Brothers of early years were perhaps involving these ideals in their indoctrination. The ideals set forth by Vitruvius follow closely with the charges of our beloved order, and it begs the question: “Do we come from idealistic Guild Masons?” To read book one of this ancient text makes one realize very quickly that the noble order of Architects or “Perfect Masters”--to borrow from both Vitruvius and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite--were very clear on what was required to reach the pinnacle of perfection in their works. This is certainly a must-read for anyone questioning our origin, as well as anyone who has a firm ideal of such matters. The ideals set forth in this ancient text will reset your opinions, whatever they may have been."

submitted by Cody Hines, Member, KC College of the Consistory

Available on line: http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Roman/Texts/Vitruvius/home.html
Price: No Charge
Written: between 23 and 27 B.C.


Knights & Freemasons: The Birth of Modern Freemasonry
Edited by Michael R. Poll with a Foreword by S. Brent Morris.


Legendary Masonic authors, Albert Mackey and Albert Pike take us on an amazing venture from the days of the Crusades and the Knights Templar to the creation of modern speculative Freemasonry in a collection of inspiring papers. Includes the rare, The Order of the Temple by Albert Pike.

Available from:Lostword.com
ISBN 1-887560-66-1
Format: Paperback
Price: $16.95
Pub. Date: August 1991

The Temple That Never Sleeps: Freemasons and E-Masonry Toward a New Paradigm
by Josh Heller & Gerald Reilly

A revolutionary book for every Freemason.
The two authors, American and UK Masons, present a radical view of Freemasonry for both today and tomorrow. In addition to their ideas are those of numerous Internet Masons (E-Masons) from around the world who, by sharing the experience of their own Masonic journey, have provided stunning personal insight into the viability of the Craft in the Internet Age.

This book will challenge your understanding of Freemasonry today and how it might transform for future generations.


Available from:Lostword.com
ISBN 1-887560-68-8
Format: Paperback
Price: $16.95

Robert's Rules of Order: Masonic Edition
Revised by Michael R. Poll

Experienced legislators, editors, civic leaders, business executives, and club officers all pronounce Roberts Rules of Order the best parliamentary Guide in the English language. Its amazing acceptance entitles it to the claim of being the recognized authority in parliamentary law. Now, for the first time, the most comprehensive, understandable, and logical guide to smooth-running meetings has been revised for use in Masonic lodges and appendant bodies.

This is a must for every Masonic lodge officer.


Available from:Lostword.com
ISBN 1-887560-07-6
Format: Paperback
Price: $21.00

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