Book: The Freemasons Key A Study Of Masonic Symbolism by Michael Poll
Mike Poll has developed a keen sense of 'what's needed' in the publishing of Masonic books. In this work, he's filled a HUGE gap that has existed practically forever.Symbolism is the language of Freemasonry. But what is symbolism? Why does Masonry use it? Who else has used symbolism? Some of the great minds in Masonic history (Albert Mackey, Joseph Fort Newton, Oliver Day Street, H. L. Haywood and more) answer these and other questions concerning the Masonic method of teaching as well as explain the symbolism of the Masonic degrees. This is an indispensable work for anyone seeking to better understand Freemasonry and its practices.
When one becomes a Mason, the very first thing they want to learn about is 'symbolism'. What does it all mean? What's behind it all? For several decades, the standard work to address these emergent questions has been Allen Roberts' The Craft and Its Symbols. This book will not take its place but it should easily become the SECOND reference for a new or inquiring Masonic mind. While Roberts has addressed the basics, relating them to each degree in a logical, patterned order, this work expands FAR beyond that and joins together essays from the best and brightest minds from the history of Freemasonry into a book which expands the richness of our symbolism in detail. Having these all in one easily handled volume makes it just SO much easier!
This is not to say that these essays themselves are easy: they are, for the most part, ones to which you will return again and again over the years, each time finding new gems of thought-provoking stimulation. They approach the subject of Masonic Symbolism from varying angles, allowing the rich prism to shine and glow in your mind.
Within the pages of "The Freemasons Key", Our good Brother, Poll, has edited an excellent collection of essays on Masonic Symbolism by past Masonic scholars and thinkers. Throughout my world travels within the Masonic circles of the U.S.A., Asia, and Europe, Masonic Initiates of all levels (including Initiates of Non-Masonic traditions) often ask me; "What makes Freemasonry so special and unique?" My answer: IT'S SYMBOLISM!! This book explains in detail why Brother Albert Pike felt: "It is in its ancient symbols and in the knowledge of their true meanings that the preeminence of Freemasonry over all other orders consists." Also, Brothers who are members of appendent Masonic organizations such as The Order of Secret Monitor, The Worshipful Society of Freemasons, ETC... or follow the religious traditions of Islam, Christianity, Jewidism, ETC.. will find much Masonic light in this book because of the UNIVERSAL nature of it's subject matter. Freemasons, buy this book, Now! You will not be disappointed. Enuff said. This is a book that has long been needed: I urge ANY student of Masonic symbolism to add it to their 'read this now' list and to their library immediately.
Downloadable books (free):
Joseph Ennemoser - The History Of Magic Vol 2Anonymous - The Mysticism Of Masonry
Sir James George Frazer - The Golden Bough A Study Of Magic And Religion
Joseph Fort Newton - The Builders A Story And Study Of Masonary
Arthur Edward Waite - Some Deeper Aspects Of Masonic Symbolism
