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

In the "Way of the Hermit" podcast episode, the Scottish Rite Degree System is dissected, revealing its structure of four bodies, each with distinct themes and teachings. The first body, "The Lodge of Perfection," is discussed, focusing on the 4th through the 14th degrees, which revolve around the quest for the "Lost Word." This quest is likened to the Grail Quest, emphasizing the romanticism of knighthood and the hero's journey, and the importance of seeking deeper knowledge and understanding Masonic allegories.

The episode then delves into the significance of symbols in Masonry as discussed in "Morals and Dogma," where symbols are seen as tools to both conceal and reveal knowledge. The true Mason is portrayed as an active seeker of knowledge, encouraged to read, study, reflect, and discriminate to grasp the profound teachings of Freemasonry. The value of knowledge and wisdom is highlighted as means to enrich the soul and influence the world, with the idea that wisdom endures beyond physical strength and the rise and fall of empires.

The concept of duty in Masonry is examined, distinguishing between divine or natural law and the law of the land, and the Mason's responsibility to balance obedience to both while following their conscience. The importance of secrecy in Masonry is discussed as a discipline and trust-building exercise, emphasizing discretion and the personal significance of Masonic teachings. The episode concludes with reflections on personal accountability, the journey towards self-forgiveness, and understanding, and the role of "A Bridge to Light" as a handbook for initiates, encouraging personal interpretation and understanding of Masonic teachings. Throughout the episode, references to the movie "Excalibur" are woven in to illustrate the romantic and quest-like nature of Masonic pursuit.

This 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 Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

Overview:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 04:30 Scottish Rite Degree System
• 07:47 Morals and Dogma
• 08:52 The True Mason is Active
• 13:07 Knowledge and Wisdom Ennoble the Soul
• 14:47 Wisdom is Better Than Strength
• 15:15 Duty and the Law
• 19:19 Breast to Breast
• 20:34 Be True and Faithful
• 22:30 Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor and Guide
• 24:09 A Bridge to Light
• 26:56 Concluding Remarks

Links:

• The Book of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry (PDF)
• What's the Difference Between a Monitor and a Ritual Book?
• Harpocrates (Wikipedia)
• Excalibur (1981 John Boorman film)
• Excalibur (script PDF)
• Philip K. Dick (Wikipedia)
• Meditations on the Tarot (Amazon.com)