Interpreting Masonic Ritual

Oscar Patterson III

Interpreting Masonic Ritual endeavors to addresses the depth of the ritualistic experience through a discussion of what ritual means to man as well as what man means to ritual. Ritual teaches us about reality but we will not come to a full understanding of it if we disparage what others do and view their actions from a position of pseudo-intellectual or cultural superiority.

Ritual is the core of Freemasonry and is that thing which sets it apart from so many organizations. It is the key to the Freemason’s “secrets” and the manner through which they transmit our “beautiful system of morality.” It is something to be treasured, maintained, taught, elevated, evaluated, and, above, reinforced through proper performance, decorum, and setting.

Hamilton Books

Pages: 150 • Trim: 6 x 9

978-0-7618-6860-6 • Paperback • November 2016 • $27.99 • (£18.95)

978-0-7618-6861-3 • eBook • November 2016 • $26.50 • (£17.95)

Subjects: Social Science / Freemasonry, History / Social History, Psychology / Social Psychology, Social Science / Customs & Traditions, Social Science / Sociology / Social Theory

Interpreting Masonic Ritual

Paperback

eBook

Summary

Interpreting Masonic Ritual endeavors to addresses the depth of the ritualistic experience through a discussion of what ritual means to man as well as what man means to ritual. Ritual teaches us about reality but we will not come to a full understanding of it if we disparage what others do and view their actions from a position of pseudo-intellectual or cultural superiority.

Ritual is the core of Freemasonry and is that thing which sets it apart from so many organizations. It is the key to the Freemason’s “secrets” and the manner through which they transmit our “beautiful system of morality.” It is something to be treasured, maintained, taught, elevated, evaluated, and, above, reinforced through proper performance, decorum, and setting.

Details

Hamilton Books

Pages: 150 • Trim: 6 x 9

978-0-7618-6860-6 • Paperback • November 2016 • $27.99 • (£18.95)

978-0-7618-6861-3 • eBook • November 2016 • $26.50 • (£17.95)

Subjects: Social Science / Freemasonry, History / Social History, Psychology / Social Psychology, Social Science / Customs & Traditions, Social Science / Sociology / Social Theory

Author

Oscar Patterson III, Ph.D. holds degrees in religion and philosophy, design, and communication. He has been a minister, a combat infantry officer, and a university professor and administrator. He is currently Worshipful Master of Ashlar Lodge No. 98 F. & A.M. in St. Augustine, Fl.

Table of Contents

Dedication
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter I: Ritual Light
Chapter II: More Ritual Light
Chapter III: Further Ritual Light
Chapter IV: Ritual Architecture
Chapter V: Ritual and Theatre
Chapter VI: Ritual and Esotericism
Chapter VII: Ritual Interpreted
Chapter VIII: What the present and the future may hold
Bibliography
About the author

Reviews

This book lays out the importance of Ritual and explains the reason why it is necessary, and offers solutions for the future that are based on a solid foundation of Masonic principles for a brighter future for the Craft. I highly recommend for any Masonic library large or small.
— Jorge L. Aladro, P.G.M. Grand Lodge of Florida

A detailed academic studies of human ritual in general and masonic ritual in particular. I highly recommend it to all Masons to read.
— John E. Karroum, MD, SGW of Grand Lodge of Florida

Worshipful Master Oscar Patterson's "Interpreting Masonic Ritual" is a valuable asset in recognizing the importance of ritual to a Mason's spiritual and moral growth. Brother Patterson makes clear that ritual work in the Lodge is essential to Freemasonry's making good men better.
— Robert P. Harry, Jr., Past Grand Master, Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Florida

Interpreting Masonic Ritual

Oscar Patterson III

Interpreting Masonic Ritual

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