The lost key; an explanation and application of the masonic symbols

2009 reprint of 1927 First edition. Masons conduct their meetings using a ritualized format. There is no single Masonic ritual, and each Jurisdiction is free to set its own ritual. However, there are similarities that exist among Jurisdictions. For example, all Masonic ritual makes use of the architectural symbolism of the tools of the medieval stonemason. Freemasons, as speculative masons (meaning philosophical building rather than actual building), use this symbolism to teach moral and ethical lessons of the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth - or as related in France: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity. The Square and Compasses carved into stone are two of the principal symbolic tools always found in a Lodge. Some Lodges and rituals explain these tools as lessons in conduct. These moral lessons are communicated in performance of allegorical ritual. A candidate progresses through degrees gaining knowledge and understanding of himself, his relationship with others and his relationship with the Supreme Being (as per his own interpretation). Tucker's The Lost Key: An Explanation and Application of the Masonic Symbols, is an explanation of the symbols and how they should be applied. It takes the form of 100 questions each mason should ask.… (more)