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It is peculiarity of the York Rite, whether intended or not by its authors, that the movement of the degrees is often inverse, and the historical connection reversed; so that as we apparently go forward in regular progression, the knowledge and light gained always reflect backward upon the path we have traveled before, and degrees that seemed complete when we took them are found to require the explanation of the subsequent degrees before they can be understood. That is what makes the infinite interest in the work, and causes the reflective Mason to continually study the sublime precepts and ceremonies of the order. This is especially true of the Cryptic degrees, two of which historically precede the Royal Arch, but which hold in reserve their valuable teachings until the candidate is ready to receive them with the most impressive effect. |
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ROYAL MASTER In this degree Hiram Abif is alive again, and imparts to the candidate the sublime teachings of useful labor on earth and a worthy end to life. The tragedy of his untimely death is again brought forward, with the great loss suffered by the craft. This is one of the most beautiful degrees in all Masonry, with lessons so impressive that they are never forgotten. It is especially illustrative of the third and seventh degrees. |
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SELECT MASTER In this degree we have dramatized one of the incidents that occurred during the building of the Temple. It is closely connected with the Royal Arch degree, and in fact it affords the explanation needed for its perfect understanding. Our three ancient Grand Masters appear in charge of a very important work connected with the Temple. One of King Solomons' most particular friends is promoted to the work, in which only a limited number are employed. Certain secrets are imparted to the candidate which make clear to him the preceding degrees. It is highly dramatic and of the greatest interest. |
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SUPEREXCELLENT MASTER This degree has no connection either in history or symbolism with the Royal and Select Master degrees. it refers to circumstances that occurred during the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuzaradan, commander of the army of the King of Babylon, and the ceremonies are intended to represent the final destruction of the Temple and the carrying away of the captive Jews to Babylon as exemplified in the Royal Arch degree. The Superexcellent Master degree is divided into three striking scenes. The first scene represents the Jewish captives at Babylon, under the direction of Haggai, the Prophet. In the second scene, King Zedekiah of Judah listens to his false counselors and despises the warnings of the Prophet Jeremiah, and the vengeance of the Lord is poured upon him. Jerusalem is captured and its wicked King is taken, with his sons, before King Nebuchadnezzar, who causes the sons to be put to death before their father's face, after which he deprives the wretched parent of his eyesight and carries him in chains to Babylon. |
