Page 48 Remarks on the Second DegreeMASONRY is a progressive science, and is divided into two different classes or degrees, for the more regular advancement in the knowledge of its mysteries. According to the progress we make, we limit or extend our inquiries; and in proportion |
Page 49 to our capacity, we attain to a less or greater degree of perfection. Masonry includes within its circle almost every branch of polite learning. Under the vail of its mysteries is comprehended a regular system of science. Many of its illustrations, to the confined genius, may appear unimportant; but the man of more enlarged faculties will perceive them to be, in the highest degree, useful and interesting. To please the accomplished scholar and ingenious artist, Masonry is wisely planned, and, in the investigation of its latent doctrines, the philosopher and mathematician may experience equal delight and satisfaction. To exhaust the various subjects of which it treats would transcend the powers of the brightest genius; still, however, nearer approaches to perfection may be made, and the man of wisdom will not check the progress of his abilities, though the task he attempts may at first seem insurmountable. Perseverance and application remove each difficulty as it occurs; every step he advances, new pleasures open to his view, and instruction of the noblest kind attends his researches. In the diligent pursuit of knowledge, the intellectual faculties are employed in promoting the glory of God and the good of man. The first degree is well calculated to enforce the duties of morality, and imprint on the memory the noblest principles which can adorn the human mind. It is, therefore, the best introduction to the second degree, which not only extends the same plan, but comprehends a more diffusive system of knowledge. Here practice and theory join in qualifying the industrious Mason to share the pleasures which an |
Page 50 advancement in the art must necessarily afford. Listening with attention to the wise opinions of experienced craftsmen on important subjects, he gradually familiarizes his mind to useful instruction, and is soon enabled to investigate truths of the utmost concern in the general transactions of life. From this system proceeds a rational amusement; while the mental powers are fully employed, the judgment is properly exercised; a spirit of emulation prevails; and all are induced to vie, who shall most excel in promoting the valuable rules of the institution.
The First SectionOf the second degree accurately elucidates the mode of introduction into that particular class, and instructs the diligent craftsman how to proceed in the proper arrangement of the ceremonies used on the occasion. It qualifies him to judge of their importance, and convinces him of the necessity of strictly adhering to every established usage of the Order. Here he is intrusted with particular tests, to enable him to prove his title to the privileges of this degree, while satisfactory reasons are given for their origin. Many duties, which cement, in the firmest union, well-informed brethren, are illustrated in this section; and an opportunity is given to make such advances in Masonry as will always distinguish the abilities of those who have arrived at preferment. The knowledge of this section is absolutely necessary for all craftsmen, and, as it recapitulates the ceremony of initiation, and contains many other important particulars, no officer or member of a Lodge should be unacquainted with it. |
Page 51 The following is introduced during the ceremonies:
THE PLUMB, SQUARE, AND LEVEL,Those noble and useful implements of a fellowcraft, are here introduced and moralized, and serve as a constant admonition to the practice of virtue and morality.
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The Second SectionOf this degree has recourse to the origin of the institution, and views Masonry under two denominations, operative and speculative. These are separately considered, and the principles on which both are founded particularly explained. Their affinity is pointed out by allegorical figures and typical representations. The period stipulated for rewarding merit is fixed, and the inimitable moral to which that circumstance alludes is explained; the creation of the world is described, and many particulars recited, all of which have been carefully preserved among Masons, and transmitted from one age to another by oral tradition. Circumstances of great importance to the Fraternity are here particularized, and many traditional tenets and customs confirmed by sacred and profane record. The celestial and terrestrial globes are considered; and here the accomplished gentleman may display his talents to advantage, in the elucidation of the Orders of Architecture, the Senses of human nature, and the liberal Arts and Sciences, which are severally classed in a regular arrangement. In short, this section contains a store of valuable knowledge, founded on reason and sacred record, both entertaining and instructive. |
Page 53 Masonry is considered under two denominations - operative and speculative.
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Here are introduced and explained emblems of
PEACE, UNITY, AND PLENTY.B. J. |
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OF THE GLOBES.
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The orders of architecture come under consideration in this section; a brief description of them may, therefore, not be improper.
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OF THE INVENTION OF ORDER IN ARCHITECTURE.
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OF THE FIVE SENSESOF HUMAN NATURE.AN analysis of the human faculties is next given in this section, in which the five external senses particularly claim attention; these are: hearing, seeing, feeling, smelling, and tasting.
HEARING
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ASTRONOMY
After this follows an emblem of PLENTY, which is symbolically explained:
CORN, G |
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OF THE MORAL ADVANTAGES OF GEOMETRY.From this theme we proceed to illustrate the moral advantages of Geometry, a subject on which the following observations may not be unacceptable.
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Thus end the two sections of the second lecture; which, with the ceremony used at opening and closing the Lodge, comprehend the whole of the second degree of Masonry. This lecture contains a regular system of science, demonstrated on the clearest principles, and established on the firmest foundation.
CHARGEAt Initiation into the Second Degree.
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