Mercury Chapter No.4581

Royal Arch Degree - Paper 1

The following paper is reproduced in the hope that the author may be discovered.

The orginal paper was acquired sometime around 2001, and it is believed that the original source may have been the Buckinghamshire Lodge of Masonic Research.

The Degree of Royal Arch is the capstone of the Craft Degrees. It is concerned with the discovery of a crypt and the value of the resulting discoveries to the Craft. In this Degree, that which was lost in the 3rd (Master Mason) Degree is again found.

The Royal Arch Degree is the climax of Ancient Craft Masonry and Masonic Symbolism. It has been described as “the root and marrow of Freemasonry.”

It is the story of Jewish History during some of its darkest hours. Jerusalem and the Holy temple are destroyed, and the people are being held captive as slaves in Babylon.

The candidate joins with his Brethren, as they are set free from captivity to return home and engage in the noble and glorious work of rebuilding the City of Jerusalem and the Temple of God. It is during this rebuilding that they make a discovery that brings to light the greatest of all treasures in Masonry the long-lost True Word of a Master Mason.

All of us who are Exalted to that most sublime degree, particularly by those who are seeking to complete their Masonic education, will I’m sure appreciate the value of Royal Arch Masonry. It reveals the full light of Ancient Craft Masonry, presenting it as a complete and unified system.

The Royal Arch Degree is set in a later period in the history of the Jewish People. Events of the objects of the Jewish people were preserved, discovered and restored. This degree is the culmination of Ancient Craft Masonry for here we find that which was lost-the word for which you were given a substitute in the Master Mason degree is imparted to you in solemn and impressive ceremonies.

These Degrees continue the education, which the Master Mason received in the Symbolic Lodge. Any Master Mason who wishes “Further Light in Masonry” should receive them.


                                   © 2013-22 Mercury Chapter No 4581. All Rights Reserved.