Ritual of the 30th Degree of the AASR
Knight Kadosh
Knight of the White and Black Eagl
SUPREME COUNCIL OF THE 33RD AND LAST DEGREE
OF THE ANCIENT AND ACCEPTED SCOTTISH RITE
OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL
6013
Ritual of the 30° Degree – Knight Kadosh
Preamble
The first Hebrew ritual book for this degree was hastily prepared soon after the foundation of our Supreme Council in 1966 by a committee composed of Ill. Brothers Abraham Fellman 33°, Josef Shatner 33°, Yehuda Treivish 33° and Felix Klug 33°, A corrected version was later written at the request of the Sovereign Grand Commander Dr. Jona Ron 33° by Ill. Brothers Abraham Fellman 33° and Felix Klug 33°, assisted by the well-known Masonic writer and researcher Ben-Zion Ayalon 32°.
A new, updated version that took into account the introduction of the 25th Degree presented in full, was prepared in 2001 by Ill. Brothers Stefan Kwiat 33° and Yaakov Trostler 33°, while Ill. Bro. Haim Almog 33° was in the throne as Sovereign Grand Commander. This is the version that served as the basis for the present translation.
Brethren who are familiar with rituals of this degree as practiced in other countries will notice some differences in the terminology and the performance of the ceremony. For instance, in the United States, Knights are denominated Sir Knight.
I have opted for sticking as closely as possible to the Hebrew text. However, some words, such as the names of the Officers when translated would sound strange in English. As an example, the presiding officer in Hebrew is called a Grand Governor, which has no Masonic significance whatever, so I use a name common abroad: Thrice-Potent Grand Commander. Some foreign rituals use Puissant instead of Thrice-Potent. We must be aware that there are many variants in the rituals used by the various Supreme Councils, but the three most important features of this degree, the theme of vengeance, the mystic ladder and the two-headed eagle, are preserved in all versions.
Leon Zeldis 33°
Past Sovereign Grand Commander
May 2013
HISTORY OF THE 30TH DEGREE – KNIGHT KADOSH
Leon Zeldis, 33°
It is a known fact that the higher degrees of Freemasonry started appearing in France around 1743. In that year, the Count of Clermont was elected Grand Master and the General Regulations were also established, similar to Anderson’s Constitutions; however, Article 20 of these General Regulations mention the existence of Masons who called themselves Maitres Ecossois, that is, Scottish Masters. Recent scholars have also found traces of some form of the Knight Kadosh being worked in the British Isles even earlier.
Within a short time, “Scottish” lodges were founded in France, which started conferring additional degrees, and afterwards, in the year 1748, “Councils of Knights of the East” or “of the Sword”, related to the events of the Second Temple in Jerusalem made their appearance.
The multiplication of degrees and titles continued unchecked. In October 1760 the renowned mason Willermoz requested from the Grand Lodge of France authorization to establish a body named “Grande Loge des Maitres de Loge Reguliers”, indicating that the Grand Lodge of Lyon recognized 7 degrees:
Apprentice, Fellow Craft, Master
Select Master
Perfect Irish Master, Provost and Judge
Scottish Master or Grand Architect
Knight of the East
Lodges were entitled to confer the first five degrees, but the last two were reserved to the Grand Lodge.
Soon after, in the spring of 1761, masons from the city of Metz corresponded with masons from the city of Lyon and it became evident that they already recognized a number of additional degrees beyond the Knight of the East. I will not mention all their names, but the brethren from Metz already worked a degree with the name of “Chevalier Kadosh”. This degree was also known as “The Highest by Nature” and by a further appellation represented by the initials G.I.G.E., that is, Grand Inspecteur Grand Elu (Grand Inspector Grand Elected).
Already then, the ceremony recalled the story of the Templars and it featured the mystical ladder. It is possible to consult a ritual book of the year 1761 to confirm that the names of both sidepieces are identical to those in current use: Oheb Eloha and Oheb Krobo. The rungs, from bottom to top, are called Tsedakah, Shor Laban, Matok, Emunah, Hamah Schials, Sabal, Choeimal-Binah-Tabunah. In other words, the same names except for two instances.
Instead of the current “Amal Sagi”, there was “Hamah Schials” and instead of “Gmul” is written “Choeimal”.
A possible reason for these differences may be that when non-Hebrew speakers use Hebrew words, these eventually become corrupted. In most cases, the original Hebrew can be discerned without much trouble. For instance, current rituals I have seen write “Shoa” instead of Shor, “Khamal Saghia” in the place of Amal Sagi.
The ladder had one side only. The second side was added later on, with the seven sciences: Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Geometry, Arithmetic, Music (the science of the harmony of the universe) and Astronomy. In the course of centuries, some names have changed. The current ones are Mathematics, Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology and Sociology.
Another interesting point is the explanation given to the name Kadosh. According to the ritual, the work means “Separé” (separated), and it is explained as “We separate from the life of saints”.
In the ritual book there is specific stress on the Christian content of the degree. For example, when the question is made, why the knight wears a cross on his tunic, the answer is unequivocal: “So that they will know I am a Christian”; “And why over the heart?”, “To remind him that the Christian faith must be engraved on his heart”.
What is remarkable is the explanation given answering the question, why was the Templar Order founded. “Pouquoy est fondé l’Ordre?” asks the Master. The Jerusalem Temple, where the divine presence reminded man that he must be a temple for his soul, the Grand Architect of the Temple reminded our spirit that it must rule all our acts. The companions who attacked him and took his life are like the vices which attack us and which often overcome and stifle our spirit; and near the end of the ceremony, the candidate is asked, how will man be judged in the day of judgment, and the answer given is: according to the acts of charity that he performed or neglected.
These words express the idea of personal responsibility, unrelated to the church or to religion in general. Despite the religious motifs, the stress here is on an ethos divorced from religion, and this is the Masonic aspect of the ceremony.
This new degree was not received easily. On the contrary, it was the target of strong criticism and the local Masons did not wish to perform it at first.
Nevertheless, the prestige surrounding knighthood caused a gradual acceptance and within the years 1762 to 1766 we find numerous documents where brothers in high positions in the Grand Lodge append to their signature the initials G.I.G.E.
Despite this development, the growing conflict between the higher degrees performed by lodges dispersed throughout France and the Grand Lodge based in Paris led to a renewed ban of the degree. Furthermore, at the time of the French Revolution, the Templar story became an important element – perhaps the central one – in the accusations raised by royalist and Catholic authorities against Freemasonry.
However, when Etienne Morin received authorization to establish a branch of the Rite of Perfection in Haiti, this Rite’s last degree, the 25th, was the Knight Templar’s. In 1804, three years after the formation of the first Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite in the United States, the French Count De-Grasse was sent back to France to establish there the Scottish Rite of 33 Degrees, including the 30th and the Areopagus, thus closing a historical circle, although in the first years the degree was conferred solely by communication. The first Areopagus was founded only in 1830.
It should be pointed out that many changes were made in the rituals of this degree in the last two centuries, either reducing its religious-Christian elements or underlining the connection to the Templars and the spirit of vengeance against King Philip IV and Pope Clement V.
A few words about the content of the ceremony will not be out of place. The degree focuses on two main themes: first, the story of the destruction of the Templar Order and the subsequent spirit of vengeance against those responsible for the horrendous crime: the king and the pope; second, the mystic ladder with seven steps on either side. Apparently, there is no connection between these two topics, ladder and Templars or vengeance.
Let us delve a bit on the significance of the mystic ladder. Beyond the simple symbolism of ascending, or the connection between earth and heaven, there is a deeper meaning.
Take the names of the rungs, rising from the ground: the first is charity, the connection between justice and charity is evident in Hebrew: Tzedek and Tzedakah. Going up begins with charity-justice.
The second step, Shor Laban – the white bull – represents purity, innocence, to act without ulterior motives, without hypocrisy, with Sweetness – the third stage – which is also moderation, then Faith, Loyalty (fourth step), but loyalty to whom? Perhaps the intention is different: that we must believe in the value of work, which is “Amal”, the fifth step, and together with Patience (sixth step) and with Wisdom and Understanding (seventh step) we shall reach the pinnacle. This is the philosophical path to the top, but there is a second way to ascend, from the other side, where the names of the rungs are the sciences including Music as the science of universal harmony; that is, all the achievements of intellect and feeling, the exoteric side of life. Both ranges of steps are held together by the forces of love: love of mankind, and love of God.
But, and this is a big but, the double ladder is unable to stand on one foot. Both sides support one another. The ethical, abstract path on one side is supported by the practical side. Together, we can ascend to the Elysium; if one side is left out, however, the ladder collapses, and we together with it. Furthermore, what holds together the rungs of the ladder is love.
This is the message of the mystic ladder.
The message of the other main theme is chivalry, the need to fight the extremes of unbridled despotism, whether political or religious. The vengeance demanded of the Knight Kadosh is a spiritual one, as indicated by the first side of the mystic ladder. The King and the Pope were in fact summoned to the judgment of Heaven, but their evil did not disappear with them. To fight evil, we must undermine the foundations of hatred, ignorance and arrogance. The way to achieve this is through education, symbolized by the other side of the mystic ladder. Thus the two themes merge together.
THE TEMPLAR KNIGHTS AND JACQUES DE MOLAY
Abraham Fellman, 33°
(With minor editing by Leon Zeldis, 33°)
Scottish Rite members will find particular interest in the life and history of Jacques de Molay, whose name is mentioned in the higher degrees of the Scottish Rite as one of the last Templar knights, burned at the stake by the Inquisition, and who bravely endured a saintly death.
THE TEMPLAR ORDER
During the stormy time of the Crusades, at the beginning of January 1118, one of the French knights called Hughes de Payens, together with eight other companions, conceived the project of founding an order under the modest name of “The poor soldiers of Jesus”, later changed to the “Order of Knights of the Temple of Solomon”, i.e. the Templars.
Their motto was “True aristocracy exists only in God”, their mission was “Work, Prayer and War”, and their password was “Courage, Speed and Caution”. Their flag was black and white.
Members of the Order were divided into three grades: (a) Knights, (b) Comrades, (c) Servant Brothers. They wore white robes with a red cross painted on the front over the heart. The Order quickly spread throughout Europe and their numbers grew from year to year, reaching up to 15 thousand well-organized knights.
The knights were entrusted with securing the main roads and defending the crusader settlements in the Holy Land, in particular the road connecting Jerusalem with Acre. Their headquarters were established in a palace on Mount Moriah, before the entrance to the site of the Temple.
In the year 1128 the Order was officially recognized by the reigning Pope, Honorius II, who placed it under his personal jurisdiction. From that time, the Order became a vast independent organization and enormous sums of money came to its coffers from all quarters.
Numerous men and peoples from all over Europe bestowed on them jewelry, houses and palaces, lands and properties, while princes and barons sent their sons to join them as Knights Templar, to assist in fulfilling their mission.
In the course of time, the Order grew and expanded internationally, opening agencies and branches in the capitals of England, France, Germany and Spain, and in many other cities. The fact of being independent from local political and religious authorities allowed them to become international bankers. With the funds their leaders collected, they organized fresh crusades and financed a regular army.
JACQUES DE MOLAY
Jacques de Molay was born in France in the year 1244. When he was 21 years old he was received as a member of the Templar Order. He quickly showed special qualities of leadership and in 1295 he became the central figure of the Order, being elected as its Grand Master.
De Molay was greatly grieved by the disastrous defeats suffered at the time by the Crusaders in the Near East, where their situation had became precarious. The heads of the Order then decided to move to Cyprus their remaining forces with their treasures, expecting that a new Crusade would come to help them to regain the Holy Land. This, however, was not to happen. Gradually, the Order started to decay and the spirit of the Templar Knights was corrupted, but they still held to their wealth in gold and properties which they had amassed throughout Europe.
In this period of decline, many enemies and competitors from within and without the Order rose against it. Some knights wanted to gain control of the Order while other men were envious of its power and wealth. Its main opponents were King Philip IV of France and Pope Clement V, then living in Avignon and being in fact subject to the dictates of the French king. In the year 1305, Philip, coveting the vast properties of the Templars, planned to seize them and add them to his treasury. Clement, on the other hand, looked for the opportunity to put an end to the influence of the Templars on the peoples who took part in the Crusades.
In order to carry out his nefarious plan, the wily king joined the Templar Order and aspired to become one of its leaders, but he soon realized that many opponents came out openly against his plans. He then turned against the Order and, making use of his powers and authority, he began openly to harass its members. By command of the king and following the advice of his private counselor William of Nogaret, hundreds of leading Templars were arrested, and after conducting show trials they were condemned as rebels against the king and were sent to prison until they revealed the location of their hidden treasure.
Those who did not cooperate with the king’s envoys and did not reveal the treasure hideouts were brutally tortured and burned alive in public executions, including even the Grand Master Jacques de Molay who, despite the cruel physical torments he endured for long days, did not utter a word and did not reveal the location of the treasure or the names of its guardians. On 18.3.1314 he was publicly burned alive on the square facing Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, in the presence of a large crowd which had been invited by the king and the Pope to watch the execution.
Witnesses to the last moments of Jacques de Molay related that, when the faggots were set alight and the flames started to envelope him, he called out to Philip and the Pope:
“Hear, O my people, my last words. I declare before you, before heaven and earth, and you all will be witnesses. Though I may be guilty in your eyes, the Templar Order is innocent, its purity and holiness are spotless… I was offered my life in return for ignominy, but at that price my life is not worth living… I leave you… my end is near. I summon to judgment the three: Nogaret (who had died a short time earlier), Clement V and Philip IV; you, Clement – within 40 days, and you, Philip, before the year ends – may my Lord have pity on me and may your judgment be a judgment of righteousness for generations”…
With these words the last Grand Master of the Templar Knights gave up the ghost. And his dire prophesy was totally fulfilled. Clement died in terrible pain within 40 days, while Philip was killed by falling from his horse before the year ended.
It should be mentioned that an Order for young men between 18 and 23 years old was founded in the USA and is called De Molay, honoring the memory of Jacques de Molay. Most young members later join Freemasonry, after reaching the necessary age.
RITUAL OF THE AREOPAGUS
30TH DEGREE
General preparations:
In order to perform properly and expediently the ceremony, three chambers are required:
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The Preparation Room – where the knights assemble and dress, and receive instruction on the ceremony;
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The Black Chamber – to perform the first section of the ritual;
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The Red Chamber – for the second section, when candidates are to be elevated.
The Black Chamber
The black chamber is dimly illuminated and has no decoration at all. On the altar burn three candles. On the desk of the Grand Master stand 5 yellow candles. A yellow candle burns on each of the desks of the First Grand Judge and the Second Grand Judge.
On the altar, covered by a black cloth, are placed an unsheathed sword, the Tanakh, the Constitution, Square and Compasses, and a Delta. In front of the altar burns a blue fire.
Sufficient alcohol must be provided to last throughout the ceremony.
Close to the entrance door stand two columns which, after the candidate has entered, will be connected with a black curtain.
The Red Chamber
The red chamber is brightly illuminated and it is arranged in the following manner: on the desk of the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander burn 5 yellow candles and on the desks of both Grand Judges burn 3 yellow candles.
Before the altar is placed a black box containing three heads: one with a crown of laurel, the second crowned with a papal tiara and the third with a royal crown.
On the northeast side is folded the Areopagus banner and on the southeast side hangs the national flag.
On the southeast side stands the mystical ladder (with 7 steps) and before it is a bowl with alcohol. A gong and 14 swords must be made ready.
In the East hangs a large two-headed eagle seizing with its claws a flaming sword on which are engraved the words: Aut Vincere Aut Mori (Victory or Death).
The officers:
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Thrice-Potent Grand Commander
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First Grand Judge
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Second Grand Judge
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Grand Orator
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Grand Expert
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Grand Secretary
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Grand Treasurer
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Grand Architect
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Grand Director of Ceremonies
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Grand Musician
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Grand Stewards
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Grand Inner Guard
Opening Ceremony of the Areopagus
(Ordinary illumination)
(In the Black Chamber are sitting only the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander and the Grand Director of Ceremonies)
Grand Commander:
Knight Grand Director of Ceremonies, please call the officers to work.
(The officers enter one after the other and stand in the center of the room with the Sign of Order (open r. h. over the h. and l. h. closed and raised as if holding a sword). When passing the Holy Password they place the r. h. on the r. hi. and bend the r. l. giving a short step forward. Then they take their stations).
Grand Commander:
Knight Grand Director of Ceremonies, please call to work the brothers, Knights Kadosh.
Grand DOCC:
(Goes out to the anteroom and says:)
Brethren, the Grand Commander calls to work the brothers Knights Kadosh.
(The brothers enter one after the other making the Sign of the Degree and take their places on both sides of the room)
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, the brothers, Knights Kadosh, have entered. The Areopagus is ready for work.
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, is the Chapter properly tiled?
First Judge:
Yes, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, the Chapter is properly tiled.
Grand Commander:
Knight Second Grand Judge, assist me in opening the Council of Knights Kadosh for work.
Second Judge:
Brother Knights, the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander requests your assistance in opening the Council of Knights Kadosh for work.
Grand Commander:
Brother Knights, stand to order with the Holy Sign.
(They place the r. h. on the r. hi., bend the r. l. and give a short step forward)
Knights, Grand Judges, please ascertain whether all those present here are Knights Kadosh.
(The two Grand Judges walk passing in front of their camps and ask each knight begopal kol, receiving the answer parash kol; they then return to their places and the First Grand Judge informs the Grand Commander):
First Judge:
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, I verified that all those present on both camps are Knights Kadosh.
Grand Commander:
I also confirm that the brothers in the East are Knights Kadosh.
Knights, please be seated.
Knight First Grand Judge, are you a Knight Kadosh?
First Judge:
Yes I am, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander. Although the denomination was different, the content was the same.
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, what is your age?
First Judge:
A century and more.
Grand Commander:
Knight Second Grand Judge, what do you seek?
Second Judge:
The light, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander.
Grand Commander:
What light and for whom?
Second Judge:
The light of freedom, for those who do not use it for evil.
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, and what do you seek?
First Judge:
Revenge.
Grand Commander:
Revenge against whom?
First Judge:
Revenge against all those who shackle the spirit or the body of men.
Grand Commander:
For what purpose are we Knights Kadosh?
First Judge:
To fight with all our strength and at all times against injustice, no matter who is causing it.
Grand Commander:
Knight Second Grand Judge, what is the time?
Second Judge:
The night is falling, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander.
Grand Commander:
Since the hour has arrived, when Knights Kadosh start their work, I declare this Areopagus open for work in the 30th Degree.
To order, Knights Kadosh!
(The knights stand and make the Sign of the Degree)
Let us promise to keep and defend our principles, even with our lives.
The Knights:
(The Knights Kadosh hold the s. vertically with their l. h. and touch the blade with the r. h. [in case there are no swords, they close the right hand over the l. th.] and say):
I promise.
Grand Commander:
In the name of the Great Architect of the Universe and under the auspices of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General of the 33rd and last Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the State of Israel, who constitute the Supreme Council, and by virtue of my powers as Thrice-Potent Grand Commander of this Areopagus, I proclaim Areopagus “Zohar” in the Valley of Tel Aviv open for work.
(Strikes seven times with the pommel of his sword: 00 – 00 – 00 - 0)
Knights, to me with the Sign of the Degree (r. h. open over the h. and l. h. closed with the th. pointing up as if holding a sword), with the Holy Sign (r. h. on the r. hi., bending the r. k. give a short step forward) and with the battery of the degree: (2 – 2 – 2 - 1).
Please be seated.
Knight Grand Secretary, please read the summons for this evening and then the minutes of our last assembly.
Grand Secretary:
(Reads the summons and the minutes of the last assembly)
Grand Commander:
You have heard the minutes. Do any of the knights who took part in the last assembly have an observation?
Who is for approval of the minutes? Who is against?
(After the minutes have been amended or, if there are no objections, the minutes are approved)
(If no elevation is in the program, an appropriate lecture is heard and debated)
(If there is an elevation, the ritual continues):
Grand Commander:
Knights Kadosh, we have assembled this evening in our Areopagus in order to elevate to Knights Kadosh the brethren Knights of the Brazen Serpent: ____________ (reads out their names).
Their interest in Freemasonry and the seriousness of these brethren, their knowledge and their devotion to the Order, the trust and appreciations of their brothers, are well known to the Supreme Council. You too, brethren Knights Kadosh, have fulfilled your duty by examining their petitions. Should any of you oppose the elevation of one of the brothers whose names I just mentioned, this is the time to come forward.
(Waits for reaction)
Since there is no opposition, I’ll call upon the Grand Director of Ceremonies to prepare the brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent for their elevation.
(The Grand Inner Guard turns off the lights, folds the banner of the Areopagus and covers the black box)
ELEVATION CEREMONY TO THE 30TH DEGREE
(The temple is arranged as described on pages 11 and 12)
FIRST SECTION (PREPARATION) IN THE BLACK CHAMBER
(The alcohol is lighted. The Grand Director of Ceremonies goes out to the candidates, conducts them to the door and strikes the battery of the 25th Degree:
1 – 3 – 4)
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, ascertain who seeks admittance to the temple!
First Judge:
(Goes to the door, opens it slightly and says):
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, at the door of the temple stands the Grand Director of Ceremonies accompanied by a number of brethren Knights of the Brazen Serpent, and he wishes to present them to this Council to be examined, and if they are found to be deserving and prepared – to be elevated.
Grand Commander:
Please ask who these brothers are, their names, and what do they desire.
First Judge:
(Addressing the Grand Director of Ceremonies)
Who are these brothers standing at the door, what are their names and what do they desire?
Director of Ceremonies:
(Turns to the First Grand Judge and says): The brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent (calls out their names) _____________ request to be admitted to the Council of Knights Kadosh.
First Judge:
(Addresses the Thrice Potent Grand Commander and says): The brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent (calls out their names) ______________ request to be admitted to the Council of Knights Kadosh.
Grand Commander:
Allow them to enter.
(The candidates enter the temple making the sign of the 25th Degree while background music is playing; they remain standing between both camps, slightly before the two columns. The Grand Director of Ceremonies then conducts them to stand before the places intended for them and upon receiving an order from the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, they sit down. The Grand Director of Ceremonies sits close to them and the Grand Expert sits close to the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander)
Grand Commander:
(Addressing the candidates): Brethren, taking into considerations your active involvement in Masonry, your good character, and your devoted service to our Order, the Supreme Council has decided you are worthy of being elevated to this lofty degree. You are now called Knights of the Brazen Serpent, 25th Degree in the scale of the Scottish Rite, but to complete your instruction in all aspects of Freemasonry there are still 5 degrees to take; use, then, your good judgment and your pure sentiments in order to gain them. Hence, I call upon you to sanctify yourselves, for only thus will you be deserving of becoming Knights Kadosh.
First Judge:
Brethren, in the previous degrees that you have passed until now, you have realized that Freemasonry preserves and maintains rigorously an ancient tradition.
The secret teachings that came to us from past generations constitute the basis for all the philosophical and theological teachings which always adapt themselves externally to the times and changing circumstances, while always transmitting the same truth.
Second Judge:
Brethren, these teachings, built of inseparable links of various systems, whose origin is extremely ancient, were introduced into Freemasonry at the time when Operative Masonry became symbolic or speculative in its present form.
First Judge:
The “Templar” Order and the Order of the “Illuminati” which dealt mainly with Gnostic subjects, gave us the results of their meditations, which found expression in some of our Degrees. Should we wish to prove absolutely and historically these developments, we would certainly face many obscure questions, which we’ll be unable to answer, but their spiritual heritage is without doubt here.
Grand Commander:
What is special in this esoteric heritage does not find expression only in the acquisition of knowledge, but in its consecration to a higher level, but the road to this objective is gradual, because human nature is incapable of comprehending everything all at once, as a prophet, who reaches this objective in one giant step. Every new bit of knowledge opens before us new questions and mysteries, and only in the course of years, as you progress from truth to truth, you approach the supreme awareness.
First Judge:
You progressed through the first 25 Degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, whose structure is like a pyramid, divided into symbolic lodges, lodges of perfection, chapters, and others. As Entered Apprentices you learned the secret of silence.
Second Judge:
As Fellows of the Craft, you were instructed to use your talents with the power of knowledge.
Grand Commander:
As Master Masons, “Death and Life”, “Death and Rebirth” were explained to you.
First Judge:
In the Lodge of Perfection you learned the duties that a Mason must fill in society.
Second Judge:
As Knights of the Eagle and the Pelican in the 18th Degree you learned the meaning of the concepts: Faith, Love and Hope.
Grand Commander:
In the 19th Degree, Grand Pontiff, you witnessed the triumph of truth.
First Judge:
In the 20th Degree, Venerable Master, you learned that the duty of the Master as first among equals is to work jointly within and outside of the lodge.
Second Judge:
In the 21th Degree, Patriarch Noachite, you were warned not to misuse the rights that were granted to you.
Grand Commander:
In the 22nd Degree, Prince of Lebanon, you learned the use of the axe as a symbol for extirpating all evil by the root.
First Judge:
In the 23rd Degree, Chief of the Tabernacle, you were called to keep watch and be alert confronting the dangers faced by humanity.
Second Judge:
In the 24th Degree, Prince of the Tabernacle, you learned the theory of evolution.
Grand Commander:
In the 25th Degree, Knight of the Brazen Serpent, it was explained to you that wide opportunities are open before you for positive action.
First Judge:
As Princes of Mercy, in the 26th Degree, you are instructed that there is no place for discrimination of any kind based on religion or status, nationality or race, and that such prejudice does not agree with Masonic principles.
Second Judge:
As Commanders of the Temple, in the 27th Degree, you learn to understand that even without symbols of aristocracy and without arms, it is possible to develop the spirit of true knighthood and to blend it completely with the feeling of total responsibility.
First Judge:
The 28th Degree is called Knight of the Sun, named thus on account that in ancient times it was thought that it was possible to define the mysteries of nature by seven definitions and seven fundamental principles, but it is impossible to prove whether this axiom is or is not true, although it has special importance for deepening our understanding and actions and its deeper significance remains unchanged. Thus, by self-persuasion and appreciation of the wisdom of our predecessors we shall be able to define these principles as follows: (speaks slowly and with emphasis)
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Everything that stands by itself and for its own reasons is seen by us as “absolute”.
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Only one key – the Symbol – opens before man the door to feel the absolute.
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Everything that is visible, leads us to something invisible.
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The ancient principle of the universe is beyond our reach and it cannot be understood or grasped by our reason.
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The same that everything can be understood and reached, also human life is but one point of materialization among innumerable points, where the infinite materializes in space and time.
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In the harmony of the entire universe there is also place for things that to humans seem to be bad, disastrous or imperfect.
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All uniformity is the result of constant renovation, through the clash of conflicting forces.
Grand Commander:
Brethren, Knights of the Brazen Serpent, by means of this survey we reminded you of the teachings imparted by Degrees 19 to 25, and displayed before you the secrets of the Degrees 26 to 28 of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. Each of these Degrees has its particular signs, tokens and passwords, but in ours, as in most Supreme Councils of the world, these Degrees are imparted only in summary form.
And now, only one Degree stands between you and the 30th Degree, the Knights Kadosh Degree, this is the 29th Degree, Scottish Knight or Knight of St. Andrew, whose teachings can be summarized in four short sentences:
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To think rigorously according to the laws of reason
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To serve truth
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To encourage virtue
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To fights for justice
In the Scottish Knight’s degree you are demanded to defend truth, goodness and justice and to fight against all oppression and compulsion. Hence, this is what is pronounced in the obligation of this degree:
“As a friend of truth and freedom, I know that I must act with all my powers against injustice, superstition and fanaticism, and I must also act to spread ethical laws and true education. I promise to defend the place entrusted to me and to protect it, to fight for justice and against any excess from both secular and religious authorities.”
Grand Commander:
Brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent, please stand with the sign of the 25th Degree, the sign of the serpent. Are you ready to accept this obligation and to promise to be faithful and not to reveal to anyone in the world the secrets and knowledge which you gained in the past and what you will receive in the future, and that you will keep them scrupulously.
(The candidates answer): Yes
Grand Commander:
(Descends to the candidates and says):
I hereby raise you to the Twenty-ninth Degree, the Grand Scottish Knight, or St. Andrew’s Degree, with this handshake.
(The Grand Commander returns to his station)
(Musical intermission)
Brethren, you are now qualified to learn the principles of Masonic teachings. The spiritual faith you absorbed in the symbolic lodge, was polished in the Lodge of Perfection, deepened in the Knight of the Brazen Serpent Degree, and as far as we can judge, qualified you to be elevated to the 30th Degree in the scale of degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. The Supreme Council decided to reward your fidelity and to confer upon you this degree, and it entrusted me with the task of elevating you to this prestigious situation.
Until now you dedicated most of your labors to your spiritual life, to inner development and spiritual improvement. Knowledge and silence characterized this endeavor. Hence forward you will be committed to two further virtues: determination and courage.
Your obligation from now on is to dedicate to humanity the wisdom and knowledge that you acquired by persistent and arduous work, otherwise all your efforts will be fruitless. The principles you have learned will be pointless and meaningless if you do not care to propagate them to others, for the benefit of their development and progress, thus serving humanity. We prepare you to perform good deeds and to work positively in order to materialize the elevated principles imparted to you, and in this way we perpetuate the tradition of our spiritual ancestors of this degree.
Brother Grand Expert, I hereby authorize you to make a brief description of the history of this Order.
Grand Expert:
In the year 1118, during the time of the Crusades, one of the leaders of the armies of Crusaders was the French aristocrat Godfrey de Bouillon, who, together with seven other knights, took upon themselves the duty of protecting the pilgrims who came to visit the holy places in Eretz Israel. Since they were lodged not far from the site of the Temple, they called themselves “Poor soldiers of the Temple”, or in short, the Templars.
After more than a decade of exhausting work, they founded a religious and military Order which promptly spread out. These Templar Knights, who during more than 200 years were in constant and close contact with the Orient, could not avoid being influenced by this environment, cradle of all religious traditions and immersed in the oldest civilization, which developed through Gnosticism. Since they wished to transmit to later generations the principles of their teachings, they founded within the Order a school of “Knights Kadosh”. Although the name was somewhat different, the content was identical and their intention was to give to the old symbols a complete and final meaning.
Grand Commander:
Through these principles we wish to widen your perspective and to direct your thoughts, from a narrow horizon to the space without limit; as you become aware of the divine and identify with it, you will leave behind all those things that until now supported you in your earthly life and you will be free from the fetters of dependence that restrict the perfection of man.
Weigh carefully whether you are ready to take this crucial step forward; whoever is not ready, can still go back, but he who feels strong and courageous, and prepared to take this path and make concrete these ideas, will now confirm it by saying: “Yes, I am ready”.
(Every candidate says in turn: “Yes, I am ready”. In the event that one of the candidates changes his opinion, the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander will instruct the Grand Director of Ceremonies to remove the candidate from the chamber).
Grand Commander:
(After all the candidates answered positively)
I now call upon you, my brothers, to follow the Grand Director of Ceremonies and with his help, to bring down with force the two columns near the entrance, which now block your progress, and you will walk over them towards a new objective.
(Background music of storm, tremors and clashes)
Director of Ceremonies:
(Conducts the candidates out of the temple walking over the fallen columns, and all the Knights Kadosh go out after them)
Grand Commander:
(Knocks once)
(All the brothers rise. The Illustrious Brethren in the East descend to the floor and stand in two rows until the Grand Commander leaves the temple.
The Inner Guard and some brothers remain behind in order to arrange the seats in the Red Chamber for the candidates, in one or more rows in the middle of the floor, before the Mystic Ladder. The Inner Guard is the last one to go out, after turning off all the lights and putting out the blue alcohol flame).
RITUAL OF THE AREOPAGUS
30TH DEGREE
General preparations:
In order to perform properly and expediently the ceremony, three chambers are required:
-
The Preparation Room – where the knights assemble and dress, and receive instruction on the ceremony;
-
The Black Chamber – to perform the first section of the ritual;
-
The Red Chamber – for the second section, when candidates are to be elevated.
The Black Chamber
The black chamber is dimly illuminated and has no decoration at all. On the altar burn three candles. On the desk of the Grand Master stand 5 yellow candles. A yellow candle burns on each of the desks of the First Grand Judge and the Second Grand Judge.
On the altar, covered by a black cloth, are placed an unsheathed sword, the Tanakh, the Constitution, Square and Compasses, and a Delta. In front of the altar burns a blue fire.
Sufficient alcohol must be provided to last throughout the ceremony.
Close to the entrance door stand two columns which, after the candidate has entered, will be connected with a black curtain.
The Red Chamber
The red chamber is brightly illuminated and it is arranged in the following manner: on the desk of the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander burn 5 yellow candles and on the desks of both Grand Judges burn 3 yellow candles.
Before the altar is placed a black box containing three heads: one with a crown of laurel, the second crowned with a papal tiara and the third with a royal crown.
On the northeast side is folded the Areopagus banner and on the southeast side hangs the national flag.
On the southeast side stands the mystical ladder (with 7 steps) and before it is a bowl with alcohol. A gong and 14 swords must be made ready.
In the East hangs a large two-headed eagle seizing with its claws a flaming sword on which are engraved the words: Aut Vincere Aut Mori (Victory or Death).
The officers:
-
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander
-
First Grand Judge
-
Second Grand Judge
-
Grand Orator
-
Grand Expert
-
Grand Secretary
-
Grand Treasurer
-
Grand Architect
-
Grand Director of Ceremonies
-
Grand Musician
-
Grand Stewards
-
Grand Inner Guard
Opening Ceremony of the Areopagus
(Ordinary illumination)
(In the Black Chamber are sitting only the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander and the Grand Director of Ceremonies)
Grand Commander:
Knight Grand Director of Ceremonies, please call the officers to work.
(The officers enter one after the other and stand in the center of the room with the Sign of Order (open r. h. over the h. and l. h. closed and raised as if holding a sword). When passing the Holy Password they place the r. h. on the r. hi. and bend the r. l. giving a short step forward. Then they take their stations).
Grand Commander:
Knight Grand Director of Ceremonies, please call to work the brothers, Knights Kadosh.
Grand DOCC:
(Goes out to the anteroom and says:)
Brethren, the Grand Commander calls to work the brothers Knights Kadosh.
(The brothers enter one after the other making the Sign of the Degree and take their places on both sides of the room)
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, the brothers, Knights Kadosh, have entered. The Areopagus is ready for work.
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, is the Chapter properly tiled?
First Judge:
Yes, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, the Chapter is properly tiled.
Grand Commander:
Knight Second Grand Judge, assist me in opening the Council of Knights Kadosh for work.
Second Judge:
Brother Knights, the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander requests your assistance in opening the Council of Knights Kadosh for work.
Grand Commander:
Brother Knights, stand to order with the Holy Sign.
(They place the r. h. on the r. hi., bend the r. l. and give a short step forward)
Knights, Grand Judges, please ascertain whether all those present here are Knights Kadosh.
(The two Grand Judges walk passing in front of their camps and ask each knight begopal kol, receiving the answer parash kol; they then return to their places and the First Grand Judge informs the Grand Commander):
First Judge:
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, I verified that all those present on both camps are Knights Kadosh.
Grand Commander:
I also confirm that the brothers in the East are Knights Kadosh.
Knights, please be seated.
Knight First Grand Judge, are you a Knight Kadosh?
First Judge:
Yes I am, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander. Although the denomination was different, the content was the same.
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, what is your age?
First Judge:
A century and more.
Grand Commander:
Knight Second Grand Judge, what do you seek?
Second Judge:
The light, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander.
Grand Commander:
What light and for whom?
Second Judge:
The light of freedom, for those who do not use it for evil.
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, and what do you seek?
First Judge:
Revenge.
Grand Commander:
Revenge against whom?
First Judge:
Revenge against all those who shackle the spirit or the body of men.
Grand Commander:
For what purpose are we Knights Kadosh?
First Judge:
To fight with all our strength and at all times against injustice, no matter who is causing it.
Grand Commander:
Knight Second Grand Judge, what is the time?
Second Judge:
The night is falling, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander.
Grand Commander:
Since the hour has arrived, when Knights Kadosh start their work, I declare this Areopagus open for work in the 30th Degree.
To order, Knights Kadosh!
(The knights stand and make the Sign of the Degree)
Let us promise to keep and defend our principles, even with our lives.
The Knights:
(The Knights Kadosh hold the s. vertically with their l. h. and touch the blade with the r. h. [in case there are no swords, they close the right hand over the l. th.] and say):
I promise.
Grand Commander:
In the name of the Great Architect of the Universe and under the auspices of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General of the 33rd and last Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the State of Israel, who constitute the Supreme Council, and by virtue of my powers as Thrice-Potent Grand Commander of this Areopagus, I proclaim Areopagus “Zohar” in the Valley of Tel Aviv open for work.
(Strikes seven times with the pommel of his sword: 00 – 00 – 00 - 0)
Knights, to me with the Sign of the Degree (r. h. open over the h. and l. h. closed with the th. pointing up as if holding a sword), with the Holy Sign (r. h. on the r. hi., bending the r. k. give a short step forward) and with the battery of the degree: (2 – 2 – 2 - 1).
Please be seated.
Knight Grand Secretary, please read the summons for this evening and then the minutes of our last assembly.
Grand Secretary:
(Reads the summons and the minutes of the last assembly)
Grand Commander:
You have heard the minutes. Do any of the knights who took part in the last assembly have an observation?
Who is for approval of the minutes? Who is against?
(After the minutes have been amended or, if there are no objections, the minutes are approved)
(If no elevation is in the program, an appropriate lecture is heard and debated)
(If there is an elevation, the ritual continues):
Grand Commander:
Knights Kadosh, we have assembled this evening in our Areopagus in order to elevate to Knights Kadosh the brethren Knights of the Brazen Serpent: ____________ (reads out their names).
Their interest in Freemasonry and the seriousness of these brethren, their knowledge and their devotion to the Order, the trust and appreciations of their brothers, are well known to the Supreme Council. You too, brethren Knights Kadosh, have fulfilled your duty by examining their petitions. Should any of you oppose the elevation of one of the brothers whose names I just mentioned, this is the time to come forward.
(Waits for reaction)
Since there is no opposition, I’ll call upon the Grand Director of Ceremonies to prepare the brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent for their elevation.
(The Grand Inner Guard turns off the lights, folds the banner of the Areopagus and covers the black box)
ELEVATION CEREMONY TO THE 30TH DEGREE
(The temple is arranged as described on pages 11 and 12)
FIRST SECTION (PREPARATION) IN THE BLACK CHAMBER
(The alcohol is lighted. The Grand Director of Ceremonies goes out to the candidates, conducts them to the door and strikes the battery of the 25th Degree:
1 – 3 – 4)
Grand Commander:
Knight First Grand Judge, ascertain who seeks admittance to the temple!
First Judge:
(Goes to the door, opens it slightly and says):
Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, at the door of the temple stands the Grand Director of Ceremonies accompanied by a number of brethren Knights of the Brazen Serpent, and he wishes to present them to this Council to be examined, and if they are found to be deserving and prepared – to be elevated.
Grand Commander:
Please ask who these brothers are, their names, and what do they desire.
First Judge:
(Addressing the Grand Director of Ceremonies)
Who are these brothers standing at the door, what are their names and what do they desire?
Director of Ceremonies:
(Turns to the First Grand Judge and says): The brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent (calls out their names) _____________ request to be admitted to the Council of Knights Kadosh.
First Judge:
(Addresses the Thrice Potent Grand Commander and says): The brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent (calls out their names) ______________ request to be admitted to the Council of Knights Kadosh.
Grand Commander:
Allow them to enter.
(The candidates enter the temple making the sign of the 25th Degree while background music is playing; they remain standing between both camps, slightly before the two columns. The Grand Director of Ceremonies then conducts them to stand before the places intended for them and upon receiving an order from the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander, they sit down. The Grand Director of Ceremonies sits close to them and the Grand Expert sits close to the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander)
Grand Commander:
(Addressing the candidates): Brethren, taking into considerations your active involvement in Masonry, your good character, and your devoted service to our Order, the Supreme Council has decided you are worthy of being elevated to this lofty degree. You are now called Knights of the Brazen Serpent, 25th Degree in the scale of the Scottish Rite, but to complete your instruction in all aspects of Freemasonry there are still 5 degrees to take; use, then, your good judgment and your pure sentiments in order to gain them. Hence, I call upon you to sanctify yourselves, for only thus will you be deserving of becoming Knights Kadosh.
First Judge:
Brethren, in the previous degrees that you have passed until now, you have realized that Freemasonry preserves and maintains rigorously an ancient tradition.
The secret teachings that came to us from past generations constitute the basis for all the philosophical and theological teachings which always adapt themselves externally to the times and changing circumstances, while always transmitting the same truth.
Second Judge:
Brethren, these teachings, built of inseparable links of various systems, whose origin is extremely ancient, were introduced into Freemasonry at the time when Operative Masonry became symbolic or speculative in its present form.
First Judge:
The “Templar” Order and the Order of the “Illuminati” which dealt mainly with Gnostic subjects, gave us the results of their meditations, which found expression in some of our Degrees. Should we wish to prove absolutely and historically these developments, we would certainly face many obscure questions, which we’ll be unable to answer, but their spiritual heritage is without doubt here.
Grand Commander:
What is special in this esoteric heritage does not find expression only in the acquisition of knowledge, but in its consecration to a higher level, but the road to this objective is gradual, because human nature is incapable of comprehending everything all at once, as a prophet, who reaches this objective in one giant step. Every new bit of knowledge opens before us new questions and mysteries, and only in the course of years, as you progress from truth to truth, you approach the supreme awareness.
First Judge:
You progressed through the first 25 Degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, whose structure is like a pyramid, divided into symbolic lodges, lodges of perfection, chapters, and others. As Entered Apprentices you learned the secret of silence.
Second Judge:
As Fellows of the Craft, you were instructed to use your talents with the power of knowledge.
Grand Commander:
As Master Masons, “Death and Life”, “Death and Rebirth” were explained to you.
First Judge:
In the Lodge of Perfection you learned the duties that a Mason must fill in society.
Second Judge:
As Knights of the Eagle and the Pelican in the 18th Degree you learned the meaning of the concepts: Faith, Love and Hope.
Grand Commander:
In the 19th Degree, Grand Pontiff, you witnessed the triumph of truth.
First Judge:
In the 20th Degree, Venerable Master, you learned that the duty of the Master as first among equals is to work jointly within and outside of the lodge.
Second Judge:
In the 21th Degree, Patriarch Noachite, you were warned not to misuse the rights that were granted to you.
Grand Commander:
In the 22nd Degree, Prince of Lebanon, you learned the use of the axe as a symbol for extirpating all evil by the root.
First Judge:
In the 23rd Degree, Chief of the Tabernacle, you were called to keep watch and be alert confronting the dangers faced by humanity.
Second Judge:
In the 24th Degree, Prince of the Tabernacle, you learned the theory of evolution.
Grand Commander:
In the 25th Degree, Knight of the Brazen Serpent, it was explained to you that wide opportunities are open before you for positive action.
First Judge:
As Princes of Mercy, in the 26th Degree, you are instructed that there is no place for discrimination of any kind based on religion or status, nationality or race, and that such prejudice does not agree with Masonic principles.
Second Judge:
As Commanders of the Temple, in the 27th Degree, you learn to understand that even without symbols of aristocracy and without arms, it is possible to develop the spirit of true knighthood and to blend it completely with the feeling of total responsibility.
First Judge:
The 28th Degree is called Knight of the Sun, named thus on account that in ancient times it was thought that it was possible to define the mysteries of nature by seven definitions and seven fundamental principles, but it is impossible to prove whether this axiom is or is not true, although it has special importance for deepening our understanding and actions and its deeper significance remains unchanged. Thus, by self-persuasion and appreciation of the wisdom of our predecessors we shall be able to define these principles as follows: (speaks slowly and with emphasis)
-
Everything that stands by itself and for its own reasons is seen by us as “absolute”.
-
Only one key – the Symbol – opens before man the door to feel the absolute.
-
Everything that is visible, leads us to something invisible.
-
The ancient principle of the universe is beyond our reach and it cannot be understood or grasped by our reason.
-
The same that everything can be understood and reached, also human life is but one point of materialization among innumerable points, where the infinite materializes in space and time.
-
In the harmony of the entire universe there is also place for things that to humans seem to be bad, disastrous or imperfect.
-
All uniformity is the result of constant renovation, through the clash of conflicting forces.
Grand Commander:
Brethren, Knights of the Brazen Serpent, by means of this survey we reminded you of the teachings imparted by Degrees 19 to 25, and displayed before you the secrets of the Degrees 26 to 28 of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. Each of these Degrees has its particular signs, tokens and passwords, but in ours, as in most Supreme Councils of the world, these Degrees are imparted only in summary form.
And now, only one Degree stands between you and the 30th Degree, the Knights Kadosh Degree, this is the 29th Degree, Scottish Knight or Knight of St. Andrew, whose teachings can be summarized in four short sentences:
-
To think rigorously according to the laws of reason
-
To serve truth
-
To encourage virtue
-
To fights for justice
In the Scottish Knight’s degree you are demanded to defend truth, goodness and justice and to fight against all oppression and compulsion. Hence, this is what is pronounced in the obligation of this degree:
“As a friend of truth and freedom, I know that I must act with all my powers against injustice, superstition and fanaticism, and I must also act to spread ethical laws and true education. I promise to defend the place entrusted to me and to protect it, to fight for justice and against any excess from both secular and religious authorities.”
Grand Commander:
Brothers Knights of the Brazen Serpent, please stand with the sign of the 25th Degree, the sign of the serpent. Are you ready to accept this obligation and to promise to be faithful and not to reveal to anyone in the world the secrets and knowledge which you gained in the past and what you will receive in the future, and that you will keep them scrupulously.
(The candidates answer): Yes
Grand Commander:
(Descends to the candidates and says):
I hereby raise you to the Twenty-ninth Degree, the Grand Scottish Knight, or St. Andrew’s Degree, with this handshake.
(The Grand Commander returns to his station)
(Musical intermission)
Brethren, you are now qualified to learn the principles of Masonic teachings. The spiritual faith you absorbed in the symbolic lodge, was polished in the Lodge of Perfection, deepened in the Knight of the Brazen Serpent Degree, and as far as we can judge, qualified you to be elevated to the 30th Degree in the scale of degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. The Supreme Council decided to reward your fidelity and to confer upon you this degree, and it entrusted me with the task of elevating you to this prestigious situation.
Until now you dedicated most of your labors to your spiritual life, to inner development and spiritual improvement. Knowledge and silence characterized this endeavor. Hence forward you will be committed to two further virtues: determination and courage.
Your obligation from now on is to dedicate to humanity the wisdom and knowledge that you acquired by persistent and arduous work, otherwise all your efforts will be fruitless. The principles you have learned will be pointless and meaningless if you do not care to propagate them to others, for the benefit of their development and progress, thus serving humanity. We prepare you to perform good deeds and to work positively in order to materialize the elevated principles imparted to you, and in this way we perpetuate the tradition of our spiritual ancestors of this degree.
Brother Grand Expert, I hereby authorize you to make a brief description of the history of this Order.
Grand Expert:
In the year 1118, during the time of the Crusades, one of the leaders of the armies of Crusaders was the French aristocrat Godfrey de Bouillon, who, together with seven other knights, took upon themselves the duty of protecting the pilgrims who came to visit the holy places in Eretz Israel. Since they were lodged not far from the site of the Temple, they called themselves “Poor soldiers of the Temple”, or in short, the Templars.
After more than a decade of exhausting work, they founded a religious and military Order which promptly spread out. These Templar Knights, who during more than 200 years were in constant and close contact with the Orient, could not avoid being influenced by this environment, cradle of all religious traditions and immersed in the oldest civilization, which developed through Gnosticism. Since they wished to transmit to later generations the principles of their teachings, they founded within the Order a school of “Knights Kadosh”. Although the name was somewhat different, the content was identical and their intention was to give to the old symbols a complete and final meaning.
Grand Commander:
Through these principles we wish to widen your perspective and to direct your thoughts, from a narrow horizon to the space without limit; as you become aware of the divine and identify with it, you will leave behind all those things that until now supported you in your earthly life and you will be free from the fetters of dependence that restrict the perfection of man.
Weigh carefully whether you are ready to take this crucial step forward; whoever is not ready, can still go back, but he who feels strong and courageous, and prepared to take this path and make concrete these ideas, will now confirm it by saying: “Yes, I am ready”.
(Every candidate says in turn: “Yes, I am ready”. In the event that one of the candidates changes his opinion, the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander will instruct the Grand Director of Ceremonies to remove the candidate from the chamber).
Grand Commander:
(After all the candidates answered positively)
I now call upon you, my brothers, to follow the Grand Director of Ceremonies and with his help, to bring down with force the two columns near the entrance, which now block your progress, and you will walk over them towards a new objective.
(Background music of storm, tremors and clashes)
Director of Ceremonies:
(Conducts the candidates out of the temple walking over the fallen columns, and all the Knights Kadosh go out after them)
Grand Commander:
(Knocks once)
(All the brothers rise. The Illustrious Brethren in the East descend to the floor and stand in two rows until the Grand Commander leaves the temple.
The Inner Guard and some brothers remain behind in order to arrange the seats in the Red Chamber for the candidates, in one or more rows in the middle of the floor, before the Mystic Ladder. The Inner Guard is the last one to go out, after turning off all the lights and putting out the blue alcohol flame).
Closing Ceremony of the Areopagus
Grand Commander:
Would the Sovereign Grand Commander wish to say a few words for the benefit of Freemasonry in general and of Areopagus “Zohar” in particular?
(If the S. G. C. is present and wishes to speak, he does so)
Brother Grand Secretary, do you have something to report about the Knights Kadosh absent this evening?
(Excuses are read out)
Brother Grand Treasurer, declare now the collection for the benefit of widows and orphans.
(Knocks with the sword and says):
Brother First Grand Judge, when do the Knights Kadosh close the work of the Areopagus?
First Judge:
(Knocks with the sword and says):
At the break of dawn, Thrice-Potent Grand Commander.
Grand Commander:
Brother First Grand Judge, what is the time?
First Judge:
The stars have disappeared, and the horizon begins to clear up.
Grand Commander:
Why do we close our work when the day begins?
First Judge:
So that we can better hide our plans from the eyes of the profane.
Grand Commander:
And what are our plans?
First Judge:
To make war against crime, defend the helpless and assist the needy.
Grand Commander:
How do you understand the words “make war against crime”?
First Judge:
By opposing by all legal means available to us oppression and fraud, we fulfill our obligations concerning war against crime.
Grand Commander:
Brother Second Grand Judge, and how do you understand the words “defend the helpless and assist the needy”?
Second Judge:
By lending support to lift humanity from the deep depression to which it fell, by disseminating illustration, by educating fellow men and brothers and instructing them in the elevated subjects of brotherhood – we fulfill our sacred obligation as Knights Kadosh to defend the helpless and assist the needy.
Grand Commander:
These are in fact our obligations and we should never forget them, both within and without the Temple.
Brother Knights, First Grand Judge and Second Grand Judge, please order the knights of this Areopagus to assist us in concluding our work.
First Judge:
Brother Knights in the southern camp, the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander orders you to assist him in concluding the work of this Areopagus.
Second Judge:
Brother Knights in the northern camp, the Thrice-Potent Grand Commander orders you to assist him in concluding the work of this Areopagus.
Grand Commander:
Be upstanding, Brother Knights! (All rise and stand with the sign of the Degree). Give me the Holy Sign (It is done).
Together with me, the battery of the degree (clap hands 2 – 2 – 2 – 1).
By virtue of the powers invested in me as Thrice-Potent Grand Commander of Areopagus “Zohar”, I declare that the work of the Areopagus has concluded.
Brothers Knights Kadosh, before separating in peace, I must remind you to fulfill our sacred obligations with enthusiasm, with wisdom, patience and prudence. Please promise this to us. You must keep in deepest secret all that you have seen or heard, so that nothing may be revealed to any man who does not belong to the Areopagus as you do. Come to me, one by one.
Please put two ff. of your r. h. on the b. of the s. and say, each one: “I promise”. Following that, leave the Temple in silence.
(The Thrice-Potent Grand Commander holds the sword upright with his right hand, the blade before him, and descends from his station. All those present come to him one by one, first the Knights from the East, including General Grand Commanders with the Sovereign Grand Commander at their head; after them the knights from the north, after them the knights from the south, after them the Second Grand Judge and the First Grand Judge. Each one places two ff. of the r. h. on the b. and says “I promise”, abandoning the Temple one by one in total silence.
The Thrice-Potent Grand Commander is the last to go out).
Second Section
The Red Chamber
(The alcohol is lighted)
(After all the Knights Kadosh entered the Red Chamber, the Grand Commander requests them to take their places)
Director of Ceremonies:
(Conducts the candidates into the Chamber and arranges them into two rows)
Grand Commander:
(Addresses the candidates): Brethren, despite you being ready to sacrifice your knowledge for the benefit of mankind, it remains your exclusive property! This information penetrated deep into a place where no feelings of hate could root it out, and only wisdom and love will know how to use it. As you can see, when the two columns fell down, the temple did not collapse. On the contrary, the chamber now appears more beautiful, larger and more spacious. The symbols that you rightly used to work in building are now broken, strewn as worthless tools. However, even the love that warms and enlivens all, cannot by itself perform the craftsman’s work. Only by merging knowledge and love into a perfect unity in action, may the work of creation be completed.
(Brief interlude)
Grand Commander:
Henceforth, only wisdom and faith will influence your actions or inaction: force on one side, love on the other; outside beauty and hope within; in any case, no abstract thought and deep reflection. Henceforward, all these concepts will blend into one method and one conception. You do not stand alone any more in this struggle, but become part of a well united association which took upon itself perform a great task.
(Solemn background music)
(Drawing of the ladder)
First Judge:
You now stand before the great symbol that incorporates all the highest principles, that is, the Mystic Ladder. Beyond the seven rungs of the ladder, rising from the plane of the secular to the pure space of the spirit, the objective is visible from afar. With your eyes and the spirit in your heart look and recognize this objective; do not remain watching in silence, return to the ground of reality that awaits your action.
Grand Commander:
Brethren, look at the ladder that stands before you and its symbols: seven rungs on the left that encompass all branches of knowledge, that is, the sciences studied in the past with your intelligence, which are:
-
Mathematics – which teaches the science of measurement, and also its limitations, for not everything can be measured.
-
Astronomy – which opened before you the macrocosm, which can be both limited and limitless.
-
Physics – which opened the microcosm before you, and which disclosed the play of forces in our world: either for the benefit of mankind, or for its destruction.
-
Chemistry – which teaches the composition of matter, and which also shows how to create and how to destroy.
-
Biology – which opened before you the sciences of the world of the living, but it also teaches that you always stand before the gate of death.
-
Psychology – which teaches how to understand the minds of men, but could not teach the secret of their value or their insignificance.
-
Sociology – which teaches the impulses that bring men together, but also the factors that incite men against men.
Grand Expert:
(Reading slowly and with emphasis)
Brethren, look now at the opposite side of the Mystic Ladder, and the significance of the Hebrew words painted on the seven rungs and the two sidepieces, which refer to the spiritual feelings of life and which bring us back from the pinnacle to the ground of reality. On the right sidepiece is written “Oheb Eloha” – Love God, while on the left one is written “Oheb Krobo” – Love Man (literally: Love your kin).
(Second drawing of the ladder)
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On the first rung – Tsedakah – meaning Tsedek, justice which stands at the foundation of all the actions of the Knight Kadosh. “Tsedek, tsedek tirdof” (Pursue Justice, Justice).
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On the second rung – Shor Laban – the white bull which symbolizes patience and innocence. Preserve the purity of white: keep away from everything that is ugly and immoral.
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On the third rung – Matok, sweetness symbolizing humility. Be modest in spirit and tolerant in your demeanor. Do not act harshly, when it is possible to convince peacefully with good words.
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On the fourth rung – Emunah – Faith, which represents loyalty and stability, and reminds us of the loyalty of a Knight Kadosh to his obligations, and the steadfastness of his decision to fulfill his duties. Always listen only to the voice of your pure conscience.
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On the fifth rung – Amal Sagi – Lofty Work, which symbolizes the joy of creation, encouraging productive work; because only by protracted and strenuous labor can we achieve our objective.
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On the sixth rung – Sabal – meaning burden and suffering, reminding us of the burden we have taken up in our task.
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On the seventh rung – Gmul, Binah and Tbunah – Reward, Wisdom and Understanding, which remind us of our duty to be wise and cautious in our actions. Clear sight, wisdom and sharpness shall always accompany our activities in order to achieve the reward for your efforts.
Grand Expert:
Whether you ascend the ladder from the left and descend from the right side, or you choose to take the opposite way, you will always be forced to go through both routes to the end, because the road to knowledge and execution takes you from bottom to top and from top to bottom.
Grand Commander:
This ladder will remind and prove to you and to us that feelings and intellect must always work and move together, otherwise science would disappear into space like useless lightning; unchecked feelings would circle back with no defined objective. Only one word can unite both, can bring benefit to them and to humankind. And this is the little word that links all together, engraved on both sides of the ladder: Love. On the left, love of truth, and on the right, love of man as man.
First Judge:
Consider daily life: the doctor who treats his patient with medicines and potions and forgets the man under his care – will not save the sick man. Only if he unites his knowledge with his love of suffering man, only if he really understands his lofty mission, only then can he cure the patient.
Second Judge:
Consider the judge who sits in judgment, who rules – if his verdict is based only on the dry letter of the law without taking into consideration the mental distress of the defendant, which led him to violate the law, that judge will pervert the law. However, if the judge will go into the feelings of the accused and will understand them, he will judge in the spirit of the law, and also will do justly.
First Judge:
Consider the scientist: if he uses the force that research put into his hands to the detriment of mankind, by doing so he violated the commandment of love, but if he makes use of his discoveries for the benefit of all, he brings blessings to the world and his work will be hallowed.
Second Judge:
Humanity makes a balance, debit and credit, where good and bad actions are separated and recorded without bias. Whether the forces of dynamite, of gas, poison or the atom are directed to channels of hatred or to love, man alone decides.
Woe to him who has eyes and sees not things as they really are, who has ears but does not listen to the voice of pure conscience; and he whose voice is silent instead of denouncing slander and incitement, whoever knows how to use the trowel and the chisel but does not do the right thing, will be guilty in the eyes of history, much more so if he is a Knight Kadosh.
(Slow background music)
Grand Expert:
Here you are, you ascended and descended the mystic ladder and all the secrets and mysteries of Freemasonry are now clear to you. On the symbolic system of steps of the sciences you rose along the road of logic, and following that you continued by the path of the virtues, without which no man who has conscience and is a Perfect Mason can perform his duties properly. However, you realized that even with all this you did not progress even one step to solve the crucial riddle, the secret of creation. Should science be able to define all manifestations with a formula, one foundation, would we be able to say that thereby we approached absolute truth?
Science does not pretend to claim this; hence, we must admit that this problem remains unsolved.
How would it be possible to measure with the same human gauge something of the highest sphere, and reach it? Regarding the meaning of the symbolic collapse of the columns, you certainly did not negate religion and did not bring down the columns supporting Freemasonry, but rather rejected superstition; all religions demand from their believers to fulfill their obligations and commandments, and they often promise their reward in the next world, all this in order to enforce in this world compliance with their laws of morality and behavior. But we, who were educated on Masonic wisdom, can tell you that all our efforts to be good men will not affect any material issue, or the fear of what expects us after death.
Brethren, fulfill your obligations solely in accordance with the dictates of your clean conscience, polished here. You will then feel the greatest happiness given to man. Your conscience is the voice of God inside yourselves.
(Brief interval)
Grand Orator:
Brethren, when Jacques de Molay, the Grand Master of the Order of the Templar Knights was sent back to prison, after being brutally tortured, he courageously told his torturers: “Man’s greatest treasure is freedom of conscience”. This valuable asset we demand not for ourselves, but all mankind, for every man as an individual. We are ready to defend and protect this treasure at all times. For this purpose, we embody the most perfect spirit of knighthood which adorns the Masonic initiation process. From now on you must join the struggle and proceed imitating the Templar Knights. We shall now demonstrate to you what may happen when the despotism and tyranny of civilian and religious rulers confabulate to pervert their power and to vitiate their mission.
(The lights of the chamber are turned off, leaving only the light of alcohol)
(Soft background music; the gong is struck seven times)
Grand Commander:
We now go back to the year 1312. Philip the Fair, King of France, exploiting false testimony, orders the arrest of all the Templar Knights.
Pope Clement the Fifth dissolved the Order of the Temple, tortured the knights and executed them. Now we come to the bitter and tragic day of March 18, 1314. The Grand Master of the Templars, Jacques de Molay, had also been condemned to die at the stake. The flames surround him and flare up singeing his flesh. Before giving up the ghost, De Molay calls up: “I summon you to judgment before the highest judge, you, Clement, within 40 days, and you, Philip, before the year ends. Have mercy on me, my Lord, and may your judgment be just”.
(Brief interval)
Grand Orator:
After the tragic death of the Grand Master, the situation of the Templar Knights became much worse. All the riches and properties of the Order were confiscated. The Templar Order was totally liquidated and ceased to exist. But new life grew from the ashes of the pyre where De Molay met his end, like the mythological Phoenix, which rises to new life from its ashes.
Grand Commander:
(Knocks with his sword. The two Grand Judges reply with similar knocks. The chamber becomes fully illuminated)
(Brief music)
Grand Commander:
Knight Grand Director of Ceremonies, please open the chest.
The last words of Jacques de Molay before his cruel death, and his fateful summons to judgment, received amazing confirmation: Philip the Fair and Pope Clement V were called to the trial of heaven exactly within the times stipulated by the Grand Master.
We see here the miserable remains of the two murderers, who made evil use of the power they held and caused the annihilation of the Order. However, the memory of this faithful man who remained loyal to his high principles will be engraved forever in our hearts. Let us also honor the memory of our dear brethren who, in our days, were persecuted, murdered and exterminated because of their steadfastness in their beliefs.
We, the spiritual heirs of the Templar Knights, shall always try to avenge them, but our vengeance will not find expression in treating our enemies as they did to us; rather, as written by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, “The best form of vengeance against somebody is not to act as he did”.
We avenge Jacques de Molay and the brothers of our Order by fighting everywhere, at all times, against the misuse of power, against intolerance and despotism, whether political or religious. It makes no difference if this despotism is the act of a powerful ruler or a simple clerk, whether he wears the papal crown or the sackcloth of a mendicant priest.
We do not aspire to the same vengeance meted out to Philip the Fair and many other dictators. This is not our mission. We must understand that the day of our vengeance will be that glorious day when the rights of man will be proclaimed, against the wishes and plots of all tyrants. But our labor has not concluded, because since freedom became the most treasured right and asset of man, it is still the target of attacks even in our days, intending to erode its foundations. Not only religious and political fanatics attempt to regain the power they once held, their objective is shared by the dangerous hypocrites who try to convince the believers that their happiness depends on surrendering their rights and accepting the conditions of servitude.
We declare as enemies of freedom those politicians who exploit the power of their authority in order to decide by violent means all conflict of interests; those who use their economic power for evil ends; the political parties and movements who openly conspire to seize key positions; those who adopt the principle that the end justified the means, even the vilest and most inhuman of them. Remember well: all these are our opponents and enemies, and we call upon you to help us, to cooperate with us in our struggle against them.
(Brief interlude)
Grand Commander:
Brethren, if you agree with all that we have just told us, please confirm it by a solemn engagement that will be read to you by the Grand Orator.
Grand Orator:
I solemnly promise and swear to respect the Constitution and the Regulations of our Order, which will obligate us henceforth.
(The Director of Ceremonies points to the skull with the crown)
I will never, under any circumstances, accept despotism and oppression and will never lend a hand to it.
(The Director of Ceremonies points to the skull with the tiara)
I will never accept spiritual oppression, which suffocates and shackles man’s conscience, poisoning his pure heart and distorting his intellect with sinful impulses.
(The Director of Ceremonies points to the skull with a crown of olive leaves)
I will never support egoistic interests of any kind and will never betray freedom, which is the most precious treasure of humanity, in order to achieve personal advantage for myself.
Grand Commander:
Be upstanding, brother knights!
Brother Grand Expert, unfurl our banner (and addressing the candidates):
Brethren, are you ready to accept this obligation?
(He reads out the name of each candidate and each one answers):
“Yes, I accept”.
(Nine knights armed with swords form a steel vault over the candidates)
(The Grand Commander descends to the floor and touches with his sword the heads of the candidates, one by one, while saying):
Grand Commander:
In the name of the Sovereign Grand Inspectors General of the 33rd and last Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite who constitute the Supreme Council.
(He touches with the sword the right shoulder of each candidate, while saying):
And by the power and authority given to me as Thrice-Potent Grand Commander of this Areopagus “Zohar” in the valley of Tel Aviv, I hereby appoint and consecrate you as Knights Kadosh, and receive you as regular members of this Areopagus.
(He shakes the hand of each candidate and returns to his seat)
(The knights dissolve the steel vault)
The passwords and tokens
Grand Commander:
The outer sign of your knighthood is the sword. You may unsheathe it only after serious consideration and solely in most important cases. However, after you have taken out the sword, do not return it to the scabbard before justice, right and truth have been satisfied. Our weapon is not the dagger of the murderer, the rope of the hangman, or the tongue of the traitor, but the pen and the word of honor. The influence of every one of us in his circle and his society, the best example of honor is the freedom of your fellow man; the hand stretched to every person in need, whether distraught or in danger, and to all those whose rights have been trampled. These are our weapons.
Grand Expert:
(The Grand Expert delivers to the new Knights Kadosh the jewel of the degree. It is advisable that each candidate hold a sword)
The color of the ribbon is black, referring to a man who wants to renew himself by spiritual means. He must free himself symbolically from the materialism of the flesh, so that he can enter through the gates of death to the elevated temple of eternal life.
Sign of the degree: hold the sword with the l. h. with the blade p. u. while the f. of the r. h. are stretched o. t. h.
Holy sign: place the r. h. on the r. h., b. the r. k. , give a short step forward with the r. l. and say: “Nakam Adonay”.
Password: the interrogator says: “Bagopal Kol” (in Hebrew: all alone, i.e. everything develops by itself).
The one interrogated answers: “Parash Kol”, that is, everything is explained and understood. (In the United States, the answer is “Nekamah Baelim” – vengeance on the idols).
The grip or token: the interrogator advances the tip of his r. l. to the t. of the r. l. of the interrogated, bending r. k. against the r. k. of the interrogated; this one raises the r. fist with the t. pointing u. and the interrogator grasps the t. of the interrogated with his r. h. and then both step back.
The interrogator says: “Haburka” (in Habrew: Habracha, the blessing).
The interrogated says: “Et Adonay” (The Lord).
And both say in unison: “M. K. B. E.A.”
Sign of distress: place both open hh. above the h., the l. p. over the r. p.
Age: a century and more, I don’t count the years.
Battery: 7 times: 2 – 2 – 2 – 1.
Grand Commander:
I will now ask the new Knights Kadosh to take their places in the camp and to remain standing.
Brothers Grand Judges, I request that you present the new Knights Kadosh to the knights in your camps, so that they will recognize them as such from this day forward.
First Judge:
Brethren Knights in the southern camp: I present to you the brother Knights who were admitted among us tonight as Knights Kadosh, and I ask you to recognize them as such from this day forward.
Second Judge:
Brethren Knights in the northern camp: I present to you the brother Knights who were admitted among us tonight as Knights Kadosh, and I ask you to recognize them as such from this day forward.
Grand Commander:
Brethren Knights, let as salute with joy the new Knights Kadosh in the accepted manner.
Stand up with me, my Brothers. With the Holy Sign and the battery of the degree:
(All stand up and clap the battery)
Please sit down.
(If a lecture will be pronounced, the lecturer is now invited to speak. The other matters on the table are discussed)