32nd Degree: Master of the Royal Secret

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.

In this episode, the intricate details of the Degree Ritual and its profound symbolism are explored, shedding light on the culmination of Masonic teachings. The ritual, set against the backdrop of the Vernal Equinox, serves as a symbolic journey through the Scottish Rite degrees, leading to the understanding of the Royal Secret and the Holy Doctrine.

The Encampment, a central symbol of the Degree, is meticulously described, revealing its nested geometric figures that represent the journey of enlightenment from the outer Nonagon to the inner Circle. This journey through the Encampment, from the broad understanding of Masonic philosophy to the individual realization of profound truths, is emphasized as a path to achieving equilibrium between the divine and the human.

The discussion delves deeper into the symbolism of Freemasonry, focusing on the Temple, Light, and the sacred names of God. The vows taken during the Ritual underscore the commitment to fight against despotism and to pursue enlightenment. The significance of the Vernal Equinox, representing the triumph of light over darkness, is highlighted as a metaphor for the renewal of life and the spirit's victory over matter.

The concept of the Logos, or the Divine Word, is explored as a symbol of divine ratification and the transmission of light from initiate to initiate. The metaphorical construction of the "Third Temple" within oneself is presented as the ultimate goal, symbolizing a new conception of divinity brought to life through the individual's journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.

The series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated EditionScottish Rite Ritual Monitor & GuideA Bridge to Light

Images:

32nd Degree Regalia32nd Degree - Encampment DiagramThe Hermaphrodite by Heinrich Khunrath

Overview:

01:14 Introduction02:02 Ritual Setting05:38 Degree Ritual07:28 The Encampment12:33 Degree Symbols16:01 Morals and Dogma17:46 White Light19:57 Rainbow Bridge22:46 Compass and Square25:10 Spirit Over Matter27:12 The Logos28:52 Third Temple33:10 The Sacred Word34:55 Conclusions

Links:

Solomon’s Temple (Wikipedia)Tetragrammaton (Wikipedia)Second Temple (Wikipedia)INRI (Wikipedia)New Jerusalem (Wikipedia)Om (Wikipedia)Monochord (Wikipedia)Cymatics: Chladni Plate - Sound, Vibration and Sand (YouTube)