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

This episode provides an in-depth analysis of the 8th Degree in the Scottish Rite, "Intendant of the Building." Set in the period after Hiram's death, the narrative of the degree revolves around the challenges faced in continuing the construction of King Solomon's Temple. It focuses on the collaborative effort and the selection of five individuals to assume Hiram's responsibilities, emphasizing themes of unity, shared knowledge, and collective endeavor.  Key themes discussed  include stoicism, charity, benevolence, and the virtue of contentment. The episode also explores Masonic symbols like the beehive, representing collective effort and unity. 

David & Gene emphasize the importance of reflecting on life as a divine blessing, encouraging Masons to find contentment and practice charity. The overarching message is that Masonry teaches practical virtues applicable to everyday life, emphasizing the significance of personal development and ethical conduct in both Masonic and worldly contexts.

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

Diagrams:

• Emblems of God (names of God on Tree of Life)
• Letters on the Triangle (engraving by Pierre Mejanel)

Overview

• Introduction (01:15)
•  Mythological Setting  (02:13)
• Morals and Dogma (04:08)
• Emblems of the Degree (10:47)
• Signs of the Degree (12:27)
• Mankind Seeks the Truth (13:19)
• Masonry Preserves Faith (14:08)
• Hoc Opus, Hic Labor Est (15:45)
• Masonry Does Not Dogmatize (19:34)
• Mankind Has Both Duty and Destiny to Fulfill on Earth (20:36)
• Life is a Divine Blessing (23:45)
• The Virtue of Contentment (24:44)
• Enjoy the Blessings of the Day (27:49)
• Principles Require Practice (29:24)
• Conclusions (30:45)

Links:

• The Whole Works of the Right Rev. Jeremy Taylor, Volume 1 (Amazon)
• The Creed of Christendom by William Rathbone Greg (Amazon)
• Discourses on Various Subjects by Orville Dewey (Amazon)
• Discourses on the Nature of Religion; And on Commerce and Business by Orville Dewey (Amazon)
• Intendant (Wikipedia)
• Oc opus, hic labor est (SubSubLibrarian)
• Stoics and Moral Philosophy - The 8 Principles of Stoicism (ThoughtCo)
• Bob Marley - Get Up Stand Up (YouTube)

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

This podcast episode explores the 7th Degree of the Scottish Rite, "Provost and Judge," focusing on themes of judgment, fairness, and self-reflection. The narrative of the degree is set in the time of King Solomon and revolves around the characters Uriah, Naboth, and Zabud. It highlights the challenges of fair judgment in a diverse community, and discusses the importance of impartiality  and the dangers of bias and corruption. It connects these Masonic teachings to broader philosophical and spiritual concepts, stressing the eternal consequences of actions, and the importance of mindfulness. 

David & Gene discuss the significance of the primary symbols of the degree: the Gold Key, the Ebony Box, and the All-Seeing Eye in the context of moral judgment and self-awareness, and they conclude by stressing the importance of introspection and personal growth in the journey of a Mason.

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

Diagrams:

• The Most Illustrious Delivers a key symbolic of the Masonic mysteries (Engraving by Pierre Mejanel, ca. 1887)

Overview

• Introduction (01:14)
• Mythological Setting (01:49)
• Morals and Dogma (05:39)
• Wrong and Injustice (08:30)
• Repentance and Restitution (11:12)
• Cause and Effect (11:59)
• Judge Righteous Judgment (13:35)
• Judge Only When Duty Mandates (17:17)
• Charity and Loving Kindness (18:51)
• Divine Judgment (20:19)
• Can You Escape Justice?  (21:25)
• The All-Seeing Eye  (22:05)
• What's in the Box?  (23:22)
• The Gold Key (24:51)
• Final Thoughts  (26:07)

Links:

• The Whole Works of the Right Rev. Jeremy Taylor, Volume 1 (Amazon)
• The Creed of Christendom by William Rathbone Greg (Amazon)
• Discourses on Various Subjects by Orville Dewey (Amazon)
• Discourses on the Nature of Religion; And on Commerce and Business by Orville Dewey (Amazon)
• The Story of Elijah and Rabbi Joshua ben Levi (Wikipedia)
• Collective Unconscious (Wikipedia)
• Astral Light (Wikipedia - Levi’s Theory of Magic)

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

This episode delves into the symbolic and moral teachings of the 6th Degree - "Intimate Secretary" in the Scottish Rite system. It's story revolves around the characters King Solomon, King Hiram, and Zabud. The key themes of this degree are: peacemaking, disinterested benevolence, and the balancing of passions. It also explores the concept of internal conflict and self-awareness, and references the work Eckhart Tolle, in addition to other works by of Albert Pike. This degree underscores the importance of self-observation, forgiveness, and cultivating inner peace, as foundational principles for those who are interested in esoteric wisdom.

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. 

Diagrams:

• A Brother Discovers Hiram of Tyre in a Heated Conversation with Solomon (engraving by Pierre Mejanel, ca. 1887)

Chapters:

• Introduction (01:14)
• Mythological Setting of the Degree (01:52)
• Morals and Dogma (04:50)
• Be Zealous and Faithful (05:56)
• We are Not Born for Ourselves Alone (06:42)
• The True Mason is Disinterested and Generous (09:57)
• The True Mason is a Peacemaker (10:45)
• Scottish Rite Ritual - Monitor and Guide (13:57)
• A Bridge to Light (14:20)
• Why Act the Peacemaker? (15:29)
• The First Awakening (16:43)
• Cultivating Peace Within Ourselves (18:48)
• The Power of Imagination (19:57)
• Take Me to the Pilot (21:58)

Links:

• How to Calm the Voice Inside | Eckhart Tolle Teachings (YouTube)
• A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose (Amazon)
• Oprah & Eckhart Tolle  - A New Earth (Chapter 1 of 10 on Podcast App)

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

In this episode, the virtues of industry and honesty are explored through the lens of the Perfect Master degree, with a particular emphasis on moral conduct in both personal and business matters. The symbolism of bees is used to underscore the importance of staying busy and avoiding idleness, drawing a parallel between the industrious nature of bees and the Masonic call to productive and mindful living. The discussion extends into the division of one's day for various activities, advocating for a balanced approach to work, charity, and personal growth. This segment of the conversation serves as a reminder of the finite nature of time and the importance of using it wisely.

As the episode progresses, the contemplation of death emerges as a central theme, with the hosts delving into the ritualistic aspects of the Perfect Master degree, including the symbolism of the skull and crossbones. The conversation is enriched by reflections on the inevitability of death and the human condition of facing this reality, drawing on Steve Jobs' thoughts on death to highlight the importance of living a meaningful life. The hosts discuss the impact of good deeds and the legacy left by individuals, emphasizing the idea that one's actions and influence can achieve a form of immortality. The episode concludes with a focus on preparing for one's own mortality, both physically and emotionally, and the importance of striving to be better each day as a means of finding peace and facing death calmly.

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

Diagrams:

• Lodge of the Perfect Master (Book of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry - 1867)

Overview

• 01:14 Introduction
• 04:12 Morals & Dogma
• 04:51 Stay Busy
• 06:31 Where is Your Mind?
• 08:47 Level, Plumb and Square
• 10:41 Contemplating Death
• 13:25 You Are Going to Die
• 16:33 A Few Good Men
• 17:07 Becoming Immortal
• 18:30 Fear Not a Good Death
• 19:57 Lighten Your Load
• 20:19 Better Than Yesterday

Links:

• Steve Jobs Speech (YouTube)
• John Dies at the End (Wikipedia)
• Revenant (Wikipedia)
• How to conduct a Masonic Funeral (PhoenixMasonry)
• Aghori (Wikipedia)

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)

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

In this podcast, the significance of symbols in religious expression is explored, with the assertion that all language is symbolic and that the true objects of religion are unseen. The discussion acknowledges that symbols are often confused with the things they represent, and it is suggested that God, as a concept, is a symbol because the divine cannot be fully expressed or seen by humans.

The conversation then delves into Pike's critical view of politics and popular culture, drawing parallels between his observations and contemporary times. The cyclical nature of human behavior and the recurrence of myths in society are discussed, with a focus on the idea that understanding the darker aspects of human nature can lead to societal improvement.

Philosophical problems such as the 47th Problem of Euclid, the Squaring of the Circle, and the Philosopher's Stone are examined as spiritual and alchemical processes of self-transformation. The concept of the Fall of Man is interpreted as the moment of birth into the material world and the subsequent realization of separateness, with the symbolism of Lucifer and the Devil representing the power of liberty and the misuse of free will, respectively.

The Masonic legend of Hiram Abiff is discussed as an initiation process symbolizing individuation and sacrifice. The Tracing Board of the Master Mason Degree is analyzed, with its symbols including the coffin, the working tools of the degree, and the sprig of Acacia, which is traditionally interpreted as symbolizing immortality.

The four worlds of Kabbalah—Atziluth, Briah, Yetzirah, and Assiah—are explained, along with the Tree of Life diagram and its ten Sephiroth. The historical origins of Kabbalah and the relationship between the Tree of Life and the tetractys are touched upon. The next episode is set to explore the Scottish Rite system and the degree of the Secret Master.

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

Diagrams:

• Master Mason Tracing Board
• Closeup of Tracing Board Epitaph Reversed
• Masonic Cipher Key
• Hebrew Alphabet Chart

Chapters:

• 01:14 Introduction
• 03:39 Symbols
• 06:49 Popular Culture & Politics
• 12:20 Philosophical Problems
• 15:18 The Ancient Mysteries
• 19:56 Hiram Abiff
• 25:06 Kabbalah
• 28:56 Master Mason Tracing Board
• 32:11 Concluding Remarks

Links:

• The Cloud upon the Sanctuary (Eckartshausen - PDF)
• The History of Magic (Eliphas Levi - PDF)
• A Philosophical Background for Masonic Symbolism (“Heredom” - W. Kirk MacNulty)
• Alchemically Stoned - The Psychedelic Secret of Freemasonry (Book by P. D. Newman)
• Egyptian Numerology: The Pythagorean Triangle and Its Esoteric Meaning (PDF)
• Esoteric Number Theory pt.1 ~ The Secret Nature of Numbers
• The Lodge Room Floor

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

In the episode, the symbolism inherent in the Fellowcraft Degree of Freemasonry is delved into, with a particular emphasis on the nature of symbolism itself. It is highlighted that symbols serve as a bridge to the unconscious mind, offering problems for contemplation rather than explicit solutions, thus fostering personal interpretation and growth. The discussion extends to the Rough and Smooth Ashlars, which represent the dual nature of the self, imperfection and perfection, and the Masonic labor of self-improvement. The hosts also explore the esoteric practice of maintaining black and white diaries as a parallel to the contemplation of the Ashlars.

The conversation further explores the Fellowcraft Tracing Board, which is seen as a representation of the psyche, with the winding staircase symbolizing the ascent to higher consciousness. The pillars and staircase are connected to Kabbalistic concepts and the journey towards enlightenment. The Lodge's archives are discussed as a metaphor for the repository of memories, including the unconscious, drawing parallels to Jungian psychology and the importance of examining repressed memories.

The significance of number symbolism is also examined, with each number from one to twelve discussed in terms of its esoteric meaning, such as unity, duality, and completion. The episode concludes with reflections on the nature of truth, the importance of being open to new perspectives, and the concept of sovereignty over self as the essence of liberty. The content of the discussion often transcends the confines of Pike's text, leading to broader contemplations of Masonic philosophy and symbolism.

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

The Tracing Board for the degree is available here:

• Fellowcraft Tracing Board

Overview

• 01:14 Introduction
• 03:22 The Nature of Symbolism
• 05:19 The Rough and Smooth Ashlars - Revisited
• 06:19 Supplemental Reading
• 08:00 The FellowCraft Tracing Board
• 09:45 The Archives of the Lodge
• 12:01 Number Symbolism
• 22:44 Conclusions

Related Links

• Arturo de Hoyos Interview on Audio Version of “Morals and Dogma”
• Eros and Thanatos: Freud’s two fundamental drives
• Carl Jung on Numbers (anthology of quotes)
• Approaching the Middle Chamber (by Jaime Paul Lamb)
• The Way of the Craftsman (W. Kirk MacNulty)
• Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol (W. Kirk MacNulty)

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

In the podcast episode, the moral lessons of the "Entered Apprentice" degree are explored, emphasizing that Freemasonry is not a religion but a system of morality and philosophy. It is highlighted that Masonry requires a belief in a higher power, and prayer is discussed as a force for aligning one's will with the divine. The Masonic Decalogue, which is not an official set of commandments but rather a collection of moral guidelines, and the four Cardinal Virtues are also examined for their philosophical implications in one's life.

The symbols of the degree and the Lodge are intricately dissected, with the Gavel and Ruler representing force and its measured application, and the Point within a Circle symbolizing the monad and the beginning of creation. The Metaphysical Ladder, inspired by Jacob's Ladder, signifies the soul's journey. The Lodge itself is seen as a representation of King Solomon's Temple and a symbol of the Temple within oneself. The pillars Boaz and Jachin, the three columns of Strength, Wisdom, and Beauty, the Great and Lesser Lights, and the Ornaments and Jewels of the Lodge are all discussed for their esoteric meanings and their representation of internal processes.

The podcast concludes with a reflection on the esoteric interpretation of these symbols, encouraging listeners to consider how these symbols represent ongoing processes within themselves, such as the journey towards self-improvement and the quest to understand the language of the divine.

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

The Tracing Board for the degree is available here:

• Entered Apprentice Tracing Board

Chapters:

• Introduction (01:14)
• Moral Lessons (02:53)
• Symbols of the Degree (06:31)
• The Metaphysical Ladder (12:36)
• Symbols of the Lodge (17:50)
• Esoteric Interpretation of Symbols (27:30)

Related Links:

• Doric, Ionic and Corinthian
• Corinthian, Ionic and Doric in Ancient Greece
• Greek Architecture: Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian?
• Masonic Blazing Star (brickmasons.com)
• The Blazing Star (dallas-freemasonry.com)
• The Immovable Jewels (themasonictrowel.com)
• The Mystery of the Mosaic Pavement
• The History Of The 1st Tracing Board
• First Degree Tracing Board (Manor of Newland Lodge)

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

This is the first episode of a series in which we discuss the 32 degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.  This episode provides an introduction to the Blue Lodge of Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite and the author of "Morals and Dogma",  Albert Pike. It also discusses the Introduction section of the book.

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

Chapters

• 01:14 Introduction
• 02:02 Blue Lodge Masonry
• 03:10 Masonic History
• 05:10 The Scottish Rite
• 09:09 Albert Pike
• 12:56 The Scottish Rite Degrees
• 14:49 Morals & Dogma
• 18:19 The Hiram Key Series
• 20:01 The Meaning of Myth

Topic Links:

• Morals & Dogma (Wikipedia)
• Albert Pike (Wikipedia)
• Freemasonry (Wikipedia)
• Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite (Wikipedia)
• Grand Lodge of Tennessee
• Tennessee Lodge of Research
• Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite - Southern Jurisdiction