
The Illustrated History
Of Free Masonry.
THIS WORK CONTAINS
An Authentic History of the Institution from
its Origin to the Present Time. Traced from the Secret Societies of Antiquity
to King Solomon's Temple at Jerusalem, thence through the Roman Colleges of
Builders, Travelling Bands of Masons, and the Guilds to Free Masonry.
Embellished with over 100 fine engravings, 73
of which are full-page plates.
By MOSES W. REDDING,
AUTHOR OF RUINS AND RELICS OF THE HOLY CITY -
MASONIC ANTIQUITIES OF THE ORIENT UNVEILED,
SCARLET BOOK OF FREE MASONRY - STANDARD AHIMAN
REZON, AND COMPENDIUM
OF MASONIC LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE, ETC., ETC.
NEW YORK
REDDING & CO.
212 BROADWAY.
1908.
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION.
ALL
historians, the scope of whose works extends back of the age they live in, are
dependent upon those who have gone before them for data; and as authorities,
from prejudice, may pervert the information in their possession, it devolves
on the faithful historian to critically examine the data, he uses; or, in
other words, he should constitute himself a tribunal, and summon every
accessible witness, and from their testimony endeavor to find the facts. In
this investigation he should exercise great discrimination in judging of both
the competency and motives of witnesses.
In the
preparation of this work, recourse has been had, not only to all the principal
Masonic histories, old and new, but to much contemporaneous general history.
And not the least among the difficulties to be overcome in the preparation of
a work of this hind are the discrepancies between writers of different
nationalitie,4, caused by the strife to give their respective countries
priority as to the origin of the Order.
The
German writer conclusively shows (to himself) that the order originated in his
country, and that the symbols are of Norse origin. While the Englishman, with
a few strokes of his pen, demolishes the German's structure, and demonstrates
that Guild Masonry originated in Britain. The greatest contention is found
between English and German writers.
Where
national pride is great, nothing is more certain than that the writers of each
nation will claim priority and superiority as to the antiquity and value of
its important institutions; therefore, we find on the question of the origin
of Free Masonry, a great diversity of views on important points between such
writers. As a sample of this, see the following from R. Freeke Gould, in The
History of Free Masonry, vol i., p. 108:
4
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION.
Early
Masonic writers have merely compared their institutions with those of the
English Free Masons (Vogel, Krause, Kloss, Heldmann, etc.), and the first of
this class to attempt to unravel their early history is Fallow, in his `
Mysterien der Freimaurer.'
" In
many points this author is untrustworthy, as he has sacrificed every other
consideration to his grand aim of proving that our present system of Free
Masonry is directly attributable to the German stone-masons. In hardly any one
case of importance is his testimony strengthened by a reference to any
authority, and many of his statements are, to say the least, so startling,
that without such reference they must be charily used. Winzer has walked in
his footsteps with even greater hardihood of assertion; and Findel,
Steinbredner, and Fort have more or less placidly followed their lead without
any attempt at verification."
Another peculiarity of a portion of Masonic history is the spirit of
exaggeration and adulation manifested, as it has been the practice of a
certain class of writers to reach out in every direction for material to call
Free Masons and Free Masonry. Therefore, meetings of mechanics, held for
purposes in no way relating to Free Masonry, have been called Lodges of Free
Masons, larger meetings Grand Lodges, and the presiding officers, W. Master
and Grand Master. Sprigs of nobility have been in great demand by these
historians, as they have constantly been made to pose as Grand Masters-noble
patrons, etc.-giving the world the impression that Free Masonry was such a
beggarly institution as to be highly honored by such association.* This
flunkeyism will be a missing factor in this work, as the essential elements,
the principles of the old institution, are as much al)ove all considerations
of that kind as truth is above fiction, and no more needs such bolstering than
does the sun to maintain its course in the firmament.
In
reference to the origin of the Order, we find a great diversity of opinion as
to the time and place, differing as to time over four thousand years, and as
to place as many miles.
Several Masonic writers have placed the origin in the Garden of Eden, and
designated the fig - leaf as the first Masonic apron. One far-seeing writer
gives his imagination full scope, and 'looks beyond our little earth and
*See
Mitchell, pp. 288-388.
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION 5
declares his belief that Free Masonry existed among the earlier planets before
the earth was in a condition for occupancy by man. But coming down out of
aerial space, out of the realms of wild fancy, and carefully tracing up the
stream of ancient history, we find that Egypt, instead of the mythical garden,
Mars, or Saturn, is undoubtedly the source of the stream. For, viewed fiat by
the light of tradition, later by history, as revealed on her imperishable
monuments, it will be seen that the civilization of Egypt was far advanced
before any other nation had emerged from barbarism; and that her mysteries,
mythology, and symbolism were copied by all of the later societies of
antiquity.
And
when we consider that her wonderful attainments were due to her erudite
prie4hood, we are led to the conclusion that minds capable of achieving such
stupendous results were sufficiently far-reaching and comprehensive to
perceive the divine truths of religion and morality, and fully adequate to the
task of instituting their renowned mysteries and symbolism.
In
dealing with a subject that antedates written history, we necessarily have to
depend to a certain extent upon traditions, therefore it will be well to
consider their nature and value compared with inscribed or written history.
Tradition signifies to transmit knowledge, customs, and observations from
father to son orally. In the ancient writings of the Hebrews it is stated that
" the words of the Scribes are lovely above the words of the law; that the
words of the law are all weighty; that the words of the elders are weightier
than the words of the prophets." By which is meant that the traditions
delivered to them by the Scribes and Elders, in the Mishna and Tal. mud, are
considered to be of more value than the. Holy Scriptures. Without the aid
of tradition, said the Rabbins, we should not have been able to know which was
the first month of the year, or which the seventh day of the week. It is
related of a Caraite that lie tauntingly interrogated Hillil, the greatest of
the Rabbins, as to what evidence traditions rested on. The sage, pausing a
moment, asked the skeptic to repeat the three first letters of the alphabet.
This done, the Rabbin asked, "How do you know how to pronounce these letters
in this way, and no other? " " I learned them from my father," was the
reply. " And your son shall learn them from you," rejoined Hillil; (4 and this
is tradition."
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION
Previous to the advent of literature, and a knowledge of the art of writing or
transmitting history by engraved characters on monuments and tablets, it was
necessarily done orally; consequently, if history was divested of all
traditional authority, it would leave us but a meagre account of the earlier
affairs of the human race.
It was
the positive and earnest faith of the ancients in the spiritual-in Deity-that
led them to blend religion with the affairs of life. Therefore the Mysteries
were instituted for the instruction of man in all that could conduce to his
physical and moral welfare.
While
the Egyptians were advancing toward a higher civilization, they passed through
several stages of culture in the arts and sciences, and their religious system
kept pace with their intellectual advancement.
The
results of their system are to be seen is the remain-, of Egyptian art among
the ruins of structures throughout Egypt. The ruins of Memphis and Thebes
alone exhibit astonishing attainments in architecture and sculpture.
The
Egyptian system was the admiration of philosophers and scholars, and attracted
the wisest and best men from all nations; who in turn dissem. inated the
knowledge of the Egyptians throughout the world. Greece and Rome received
ideas in art, science, philosophy, and religion from Egypt, and Hebrew
Christianity owes to the Egyptians much of its knowledge of the attributes of
Deity.
The
Greek Philosophers, Magi of Persia, and Jewish Patriarchs all learned from the
Egyptian priests their doctrines, mysteries, arts, and sciences. In short,
many of the philosophers and rulers who made antiquity illustrious were pupils
of initiation.
Therefore to Egypt, the land of speaking monoliths, the first great teacher of
matters terrestrial and celestial, Masons have always looked with great
interest as being the cradle of their initiation rites and ceremonies, and
symbolism. On this point the best Masonic authorities agree.
The
popular belief is, that the earlier ages of antiquity were buried in
ignorance. But the history of the past, inscribed upon the monuments and
tablets of the East, is confirmatory of the fact that art, if not science,
exist e(l in as great perfection during the continuance of the Egyptian,
Assyrian, and Babylonian monarchies as at any period since.
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION. 7
For
the sculptor may, in the exhumed figures of Thebes, Babylon, and Nineveh,
behold the finest productions of the chisel, executed many centuries before
Phidias or Canova were born. Deep under the mounds of ruins in the royal
palace at Nineveh paintings have been found whose colors are bright after an
interment of four thousand years; and though not rivalling the works of
Raphael or Angelo, yet they exhibit great artistic skill.
The
origin of language and the art of alphabetical writing may be studie(l in
Assyrian and Egyptian inscriptions made long before Moses received the
God-inscribed Tables of Law on the summit of Sinai. From the
astronomical tables of Egypt and Babylon the astronomer may read important
observations on the heavenly bodies, made five hundred years before Galileo
gave to the world the system of planetary revolution.
The
ancient tables of Nineveh and Babylon, inscribed a thousand years before the
Old Testament was written, furnish the theologian with historical narratives
illustrating and confirming the Bible history and prophecy. From the
mythological inscriptions and hieroglyphic symbols he may also learn the
doctrine of the Divine existence and of the soul's immortality.
ORIGIN.
To
reach the origin of Free Masonry two lines of investigation are open to us,
either of which leads to a satisfactory conclusion. First, the institution in
its present form is mainly the outgrowth of the ancient Secret Soci eties, and
of ancient Operative Masonry, both of which originated in Egypt. The important
features of the initiation ceremonies and many of the symbols of Free Masonry
are nearly identical. with those of the ancient Societies, and plainly
traceable back to Greece and Egypt. In showing the connection between ancient
and modern practices it is immaterial which way we proceed, whether from the
head of the stream toward its mouth, or trace it from its mouth.to its source.
But believing that it will render the subject more intelligible, I shall take
the former course, and commence with the origin of the initiation ceremonies,
as practiced in the secret societies of the earliestknown civilization, and
follow by a sketch of the origin of architecture and
8
PREFACE AND INTRODUCTION.
9
its
progress under the Roman Colleges, and their successors the Guilds Guildic or
Operative Masonry, to Free Masonry.
On the
subject of the origin of the Order we have three classes of writers The first,
having the courage of its convictions, places the origin in Egypt and Greece;
the second assigns it to the Roman Colleges and the Guilds; while the thiNI,
and last class-the Uriah Heap family, beg to name 1717 as the date, and London
as the place of the origin of the Institution. Therefore the Masonic student
who is travelling East in search of light, and finds himself in Egypt, can
take the train there, at the commencement of the great Masonic
Route. Others, according to where they find themselves, can step on
the train at the way stations-the Temple of Eleusis, Greece; King Solomon's
Temple, Jerusalem; the Colleges of Builders, Rome; at some of the stations of
the Guild,, or meet the train on its arrival at its terminus in London.
As
life is too short to complacently contemplate, much less read, masses of dry
historical details, I have, so far as is compatible with an intelligent
understanding of the subject, systematized and condensed this work, and have
thus been able to present a large amount of information in a moderate compass.
THE
AUTHOR.
CONTENTS
CHAPTER
I
PAGE
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES; 19
The
Secret Societies of Egypt, Greece, Syria, and Rome.-Origin of
Initiation.-Thrilling Scenes through which the Candidate passed in the Ancient
Mysteries.-The Ritual, and Judgment of the Dead.-Description of a Temple
Devoted to the Mysteries.-The Wonderful Labyrinth.
CHAPTER II.
IMAGES, FIGURES, SYMBOLS, . 61
Origin
of Masonic Symbols, Astronomical and Mechanical.-Their Original Signification.
CHAPTER III.
ARCHITECTURE, MASONRY, 89
Origin
of the Builders' Art in Egypt.-Origin of the Pyramids, and Obelisk.-Their
Original Purpose.-Remarkable Revelations from tile Interior of the
Pyramids.The Magnificent Temple at Karnak.-Its Ruins.-Ancient Egyptian Houses.
Course of Architecture from Egypt.-Origin of the Different Styles. -Greek,
Roman, Byzantine, Romanesque, Saracenic, etc.-Progress of Architecture under
the Colleges of Builders and the Guilds.-Guildic Masonry.
CHAPTER IV. KING SOLOMON'S TEMPLE, 150
The
Building of this Remarkable Edifice.-Preparing the Timber in the Forests of
Lebanon.-Cutting the Stone in the Great Subterranean Quarry.-Secret Meetings
of the Master Workmen.-Completion and Dedication of the Temple.-Its Destruc
tion and Commencement of the Captivity.-Ancient Tyre, Home of the Two Hirams.
CHAPTER V. THE COLLEGES OF BUILDERS, 182
Their
Lodges, Officers, and Practices closely Analogous to those of Free Masons.They
Carry on most of the Architecture, Engineering, and Masonry of their Time.
-Build Splendid Public Edifices, Bridges, and Military Works.-From Rome, the
Colleges Accompany the Roman Armies into Gaul, Germany, and Britain, where
they Disseminate their Arts and Ethics.-Singular Remains of their Structures
in those Countries.
10
CONTENTS:
CHAPTER VI. GERMANY AND VICINITY, PAGE 199
The
Romans Invade Germany, but Meet with a Stubborn Resistance, which Gave the
Colleges of Builders Plenty of Occupation in Building Bridges, Forts, and
Entrenched Camps.-B.C. 10 they cut a Canal through, between the Rhine and
Issel, which Opened a Passage to the Zuider Zee.-Fighting Step by Step, the
Romans so far Established Themselves ill A.D. 100 that not only Markets, but
Towns lead Sprung Up in Various Places, and by 225, Manufactories, Temples,
and Theatres were becoming Numerous.-Salzburg, Rtitisbon, Augsburg, Strasburg,
Basle, Baden, Cologne, and other Noted Cities were Founded.-All under the
Supervision of the Colleges of Builders, whose Arts and Creed were so well
Appreciated by the more Intelligent Natives, that they Eagerly Sought
Initiation into this Roman Society, and thus its Arts and Creeds were
Perpetuated Here under the Name of Guilds.
CHAPTER VII. THE COLLEGES IN GAUL, FRANCE, 212
With
the Roman Armies of Invasion they Enter Gaul.-Construct the Military Works and
Bridges.-Build Vessels, Villages, Edifices, etc. -U1tiulately Known as
Compagnons.-Guilds, with Practices and Traditions very Similar to Ancient
Masonry.
CHAPTER VIII. ADVENT OF THE COLLEGES IN BRITAIN, . 262
They
enter the Country with Caesar's Army of Invasion, 55 R.C.-The Natives Make a
Determined Resistance.-Bloody B Lttles are Fought. -Fate of the Brave
Caractacus, and of Queen Boadicea and her Beautiful Daughters.-Military Camps
are Con structed at Different Places.-Under the Supervision of the Colleges,
Towns grow up Around or Near these Camps.-Cities are Founded, notably London,
Exeter, Dover, Chester.-After an Occupation of the Country for over Four
Hundred Years the Romans leave it, but Everywhere leave the Strong Impress of
Civilization, principally through the Operations of the Colleges.-Many Members
of the Latter Remain and Continue their Organizations, which were Subsequently
Known as Guilds, and Lastly as Free Masons:-Remarkable Remains of Roman
Structures in Many Places. -1717, Free Masonry as it had Existed for
Centuries, is now Freed from its Operative Domination, and its Doors are
Thrown Open to Good and True Men, without Regard to Occupation or
Religion.-Singular Ancient Masonic Documents.
CHAPTER IX.
ANCIENT Y, IRK, ENGLAND, 375
This
was the Chief Town of One of the Native Tribes when the Romans Landed in
Britain. -It was Remodelled by the Colleges of Builders.-Several Roman
Emperors Resided Here while Visiting the Island.-The First English Parliament
was Held in this City.-King Edwin Resided near Here.-The City was also the
Scene of the First General Assembly of Masons ever Held, and it has Held a
Conspicuous Place in Masonic History since the Tenth Century.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER X. SCOTLAND.-EARLY HISTORY, 395
Free
Masonry Makes its Appearance in this Country in the Fourteenth Ceutnry.-Quaint
and Highly Interesting Documents of the Old Lodges at Perth, Scoou, and
Aberdeen.-Old Documents, in which the Novel Ideas of the Ancient Scotch
Craftsmen are expressed in the Rich Dialect of that Period.-A Singular Ancient
Masonic Seal.-Robert Burns Master of a Lodge.-A Masonic Relic Left by Him.
CHAPTER XI. RAPID SPREAD OF FREE MASONRY, 422
Its
Introduction into the Countries of Europe, Asia, and Africa.-Free Masonry in
Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Persia, Bombay, Calcutta, Australia, China, Japan, etc.
CHAPTER XII INTRODUCTION OF FREE MASONRY INTO NORTH AND SOUTH AvERICA AND
ADJACENT ISLANDS, . 461
The
First Lodges in the United States.-The First Lodges and Grand Lodges in all
the Different States and Territories.-Primitive Proceedings in Early
LodgesRemarkable Masonic and Social Career of a Prominent Mason.-He Builds a
Castle and Marries a Beautiful Indian Girl.-Destruction of his Castle by the
Indians.Establishment of a Lodge at Crown Point in the Stirring Days o£ the
Revolution.A Mason B:>und to the Stake by the Indians to be Burnt, but is
Saved by Making the Sign of Distress.-Ori-inal and. Highly Interesting Records
of Various Old Lodges:-Washington's Headquarters at Morristown, N. J., in the
Winters of 1777 and 1779.-A Lodge Opened there in which General Lafayette was
Initiated.Establishment of Lodges and Gland Lodges in the Countries of Soutll
America and the West India Islands.-Statistics of Free Masonry throughout the
World.
CHAPTER XIII. THE 'INIARRS OF THE ANCIENT BUILDERS, 563
Marks
Used at the Building of King Solomon's Temple.-Marks Found at Tyre and Sidon.-Marks
Found in the Crypts of Old Churches and Cathedrals in Various Parts of Europe.
CHAPTER XIV. ROYAL ARCH MASONRY.-ITS ORIGIN, ETC., 571
Origin
of the Royal Arch Decrees.-The Captivity.-The Vaults Discovered Under the Site
of King Solomon's Temple.-Remains of the Citadel and Tomb of Cyrus, King of
Persia, at Ecbatana.-Establishment of the First Royal Arch Chapters in the
United States.
12
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XV. THE A. AND A. SCOTTISH RITE, 33', 592
Origin
of this Rite.-Its Development and R-tpid Spread in the East and West.-Its
Advent ill the West Indies and the United States.-Formation of the Different
Bodies Representing the A. and A. Rite in this Country.-The Southern
Jurisdiction.Northern Jurisdiction. -Cerneau bodies.
CHAPTER XVI. THE KNIGHTS TEMPLARs. 619
Origin
of this Ancient Order.-Tlie Knights of Chivalry.-Origin of the Crusades.Peter
the Hermit and His Hosts Set Out for Jerusalem, but are Nearly Annihilated by
the Turks in Asia Minor.-Subsequent Crusades.-Tile Knights Templars and
Knights Hospitalers, their Desperate Valor, and Wonderful Career of over Two
Hundred Years.-They Defeat file Mohammedans in many Bloody Battles, but were
Finally Overwhelmed by Numbers and afterward Robbed and Suppressed by the Pope
an(l Kill- of France.-De Molay and Two Hundred Knights Put to Death.Suppressed,
but Still Undaunted, They Maintain Their Organization in Different Countries.
-Ultimately they Unite with the Free Masons and Hospitalers and thus Give Rise
to Modern Knight Ternplary-Establishment of the First Encampments in North
America.-Grandeur of the Organization.
CHAPTER XVII. THE MYSTIC SHRINE. 675
Reported Origin and History of the New Organization.-Institution of Mecca
Temple in New York.-Establishment of Other Temples.-Growth of the Order in
America.-List of Temples.
CHAPTER XVIII.
MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS CONNECTED WITH THE HISTORY OF FREE MASONRY, 679
Unique
Old Documents.-Tlie Grand Mystery of the Free Masons as Revealed by an
Outsider in 1725. - Examination of Craftsmen in the Olden Time.-Dr. Plott's
Account of the Free Masons.-The Four Crowned Martyrs.-Tomb of Adoniram at
Saguntum.-Concerning King Canute, the Dane.-The Punishment of a Cowan in the
Fifteenth Century.-Kitt's Cotti House, Its Symbolic Signification.-Bagdad, a
Singular Old City Built by the Masonic Craftsmen.-Allallabacl, Masonic Marks
on its Ancient Walls.-Satirical Lecture Given to a Young Craftsman in
1350.-Ancient Mexico, Its Mysteries.-Masonic Symbols Found on the Ruins of its
Old Temples.-Ancient Peru, Its Hieroglyphics.-Masonry Among the Aborigines of
North America.
ILLUSTRATIONS
Masonic Temple, Chicago, . frontispiece.
CHAPTER I.
PAGE
An Ancient Hall of Ceremonies,-Preparing for Initiation, 27
Graphic Initiation Scene, 31
The Third Degree,-Death and Resurrection, 35
Karnak, its Splendid Ruins, 43
The First Great Obelisk, . 47
Judgment of the Dead, 53
CHAPTER II.
Apron Worn by Egyptian Kings, 63
The Ancient Ladder of Three Rounds, 66
The Lion's Paw, 75
Ancient Symbolism, Azoph,. 78
CHAPTER III.
Monuments and Pyramids, showing bow the Latter were Built, 91-93
The Temple at Karnak, Its Magnificent Hypostyle Hall, 97
Ancient Egyptian Houses, 99, 100
The Rameseum, . 102
Columns of the Different Orders of Architecture, . . 107
A View in Pompeii, and the Mosque at Diarbeker, .111-113
Ruins of the Mashita Palace, . . 114
The Great Mosque at Constantinople, St. Sophia, . 116
Interior of St. Sophia, . 117
St. Mark's Cathedral, Venice, 122
The Sulemanie Mosque, . . 123
The Alhambra, . 127
Beautiful Interiors of English Cathedrals, . 130,131
The Great Cathedrals, Cologne and Ratisbon, 134, 135
Dwellings of the Different Ancient Peoples, . . 139-143
Old Irish Architecture, 144
14
ILLUSTRATIONS.
15
CHAPTER IV.
Getting out the Cedar Timber in the Forest of Lebanon,
The
Great Subterranean Quarry.-Cutting Stone for the Temple, Conveying the Timber
in Floats to Joppa,
Ancient Joppa, Building the Temple, Destruction of the Temple.-Beginning of
the Captivity, The Clay Grounds, .
The
Mohammedan Mosque of Omar on the Site of the Temple, . Tomb of Hiram, King of
Tyre,
PAGE
152 153 159 160 166 167 172 173 177
CHAPTER V.
Remains of the Temple, Jupiter Stator, Rome,
The
Appian V4 ay, , Ancient Catacombs, Rome, . Roman Bridge across the
Danube,
186
187 191 203
CHAPTER VL
St.
Goar, Trent, . Oberwesel, , Hildesheim,
Cathedral at Worms, Mayence,
Salzburg, . . Rostock,
Nuremberg,
A
Travelling Band of Masons in the Twelfth Century, , CHAPTER VII.
202
204 207 210 213 217 221 225 231 237
Mounted Gauls, ,
Ruins
at Nismes,. ,
Ancient Roman Gateway, ,
245
248 250
CHAPTER VIII.
Caractacus and His Wife before the Roman Emperor, , Roman Squadron on the
Coast of Britain,
Roman
Prisoner Before a British Chief, . , Travel in England in the Fourth
Century, . , Remains of Ancient Chester,
265
'262 269 272 273
ILLUSTRATIONS. 15
Druid Altars, . , , PAGE
277
Last of the Druids, , 281
Canterbury Cathedral, , 285
The Tower of London, , 289
Chichester Cathedral, , 293
Au Old Street, London, , 299
St. Paul's, 321
CHAPTER X.
Remains of Melrose Abbey, , 398
A Relic Left by Robert Burns, , 408
Holyrood Abbey, , 414
Singular Symbolic Seal of the Ancient Abbey of Arbroath, . ,
420
CHAPTER XI,
Amsterdam, The Montalbans Tower, , 425
The Three Globes, Berlin, . , 431
Prison of the Inquisition, Barcelona, , 445
A Relic of East Indian Fanaticism and Torture, . , 453
CHAPTER XII.
St. John's Hall, City of New York, 1760, , 476
Tontine Tavern, . 477
The Old Masonic Hall, Broadway and Duane Streets, . 478
Masonic Temple, Philadelphia, . 495
Masonic Temple, Boston, : 503
Freeman's Tavern, Morristown, N. J.-A Relic of the Revolution and
of Free Masonry, 513
Masonic Temple, Cincinnati, O., . 529
An Old Trading Post and Lodge Room, 536
Masonic Temple, Denver, . 539
The Great Cathedral, Mexico, 547
Mexican Types, , 548
CHAPTER XIII.
Marks of the Ancient Craftsmen, 565
Ali Abraxas Stone, now in the British Museum, . 569
CHAPTER XIV.
Tomb of Cyrus, King of Persia, 577
Vaults Under the Temple, 581
Remains of Ecbatana, the Persian Capitol in the Time of Cyrus,
, 585
The Royal Arch of Heaven, . 589
I 16 ILLUSTRATIONS.
CHAPTER XVI.
Preaching the First Crusade,
The
Four Leaders of the First Crusade, Malta,
PAGE
617 621 633
CHAPTER XVIII.
Bagdad,
A.D. 762, . . 690
Fortress and City of Allahabad, , 691
E-~ptian
Kings, . 707
Chicken Itza, Yucatan, 714
House
of Manco Capac, Peru, . , 4 . . .
715
Saguntum, . e 695
DIRECTIONS TO THE READER.
For
greater convenience, and to present the testimony of authorities in a
cumulative form, the notes, instead of being placed at the bottom of the
pages, were carried 'to the end of each chapter, and are there indicated key
numbers. Therefore, a star, or other mark in the text, is answered at the
bottom of the page by the same mark, and by numbers corresponding to the
numbers of notes as they will be found at the end of the chapter.
The
following are among the authorities consulted
History of Aucient Egypt ....................................
....... Rawliuson. Egypt's Place in History
.............................................. Bunsen. Ancient
Egyptians..................................................Willcinson. Records
of the Past..................... ............................Birch. Egypt from
the Earliest Times........................................ Birch. Secret
Societies of all Ages and Countries.............................. Heckethorn.
The Esseues........................................................Ginsburg.
The Guostics....................._..................................Kin;.
The
Mysteries of Free Masonry..................................... .Fellows.
Alphabets of the Seven Planets ........................................ Von
Hammer History of Architecture...............................................
Fergusson. On
Architecture.....................................................Hope. History
of Art...................................................... Lubke.
Archoeologia........................................................
Acta
Latomorum.................................................... Thory. Historie
des anciennes Corporations.................................... Ouin Lacroix.
The Romans in Britain............... .............................. H.
C. Coote. History and Development of the Guilds.... ...
........................ Brentano. English
Guilds......................................................Smith.
The
History of Free Masonry, London Edition ........................ R. Freeke
Gould. American Edition of the Same
................................... ... Carson.
Masonic Sketches and Reprints ........................................ Hughan.
18 DIRECTIONS TO THE READER.
Elirly
History and Antiquities of Free Masonry.......... ...............
Fort. History of Free Masonry in Europe....................................
Rebold. Historv of Free Masonry .............................................
Laurie. History of Free Masonry .............................................
Findel. History of Free Masonry .............................................
Krause. History of Free Masonry and Concordant Orders........................
Various Authors. Masonic History and
Digest.......................................... Mitchell.
Origin
and Early History of Free Masonry....... , .......................
Steinbrenner. Masonic History-The A. and A. Scottish
Rite.......................... Folger.
a
History of the Knights Templars...................................... Addison.
History of the Knights Templars...................................... De
Vogue. a Tile Illustrations of Free
Masonry..................................... Preston. The Traditions of Free
Masonry....................................... Pierson. Land Marks of Free
Masonry......................................... Oliver.
Constitutions.......................................................Aii(lerson.
Ahiman Rezon................................................ ,Dermott. Multa
Paucis........................................................ Eucyclopaediaof
Free Masonry................................ ........Mackey. Royal Cyclopaedia
of Free Masonry .................................... Encyclopaedia
Britannica.............................. :.............. Chambers's
Encyclopaedia.
Dictionary of the Bible............................................... Smith.
Cvclopeedia of Biblical Literature............................
......... Kitto. Clark's
Commentaries................................................ Adam Clark.
Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire................................. Gibbon.
History of Germany..................................................
Kolrauscli. History of
England.................................................. Hume. History of
England .................................................. Mdcaulay.
When
referring to the principal authorities in this work, only the names of the au.
thors will be given, as follows
Rawlinson, Heckethorne, Chambers, Mackey, Addison, Gould, Folger,
Rebold, Fergusson, Findel, etc.
"The Illustrated History of Freemasonry"
19
CHAPTER I
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND
MYSTERIES
The
Secret Societies of Egypt, Greece, Syria, and Rome - Origin of Initiation and
Symbols - Thrilling Scenes through which the Candidate passed in the Ancient
Mysteries - The Ritual and Judgment of the Dead - Description of a Temple
devoted to the Mysteries - The Wonderful Labyrinth.
To
establish the fact that the civilization of Egypt is the oldest known to
history, and thereby reach the origin of the ancient societies of which Free
Masonry is a descendant,* it will be necessary to compare the dates of the
first appearance of the nations of antiquity in the great drama of life. While
dealing with a subject that reaches back to the very twilight of time,
reliable data is lacking to accurately fix dates so remote, yet from the
results of modern research we gather the following: that the advent of Egypt
in history was, at least, as early as 4500 B.C.; of Chaldea Babylonia, not
earlier than 3000 B.C.; India, 2500 B.C. ; China, 2600 B.C.
Menes
is, by historians styled the first king of Egypt, yet who or what Menes was we
have no certain information for determining. We know that the name "Menes "
indicates the first Egyptian king, the beginning of the first dynasty of the
old kingdom of pyramid-builders, whose capitol was Memphis. These, after a
period of decadence, were superseded by kings of a different race from the
south, 2571 B.C., and these in turn, after a brief rule, were conquered by an
Asiatic race of Shepherd Kings, 1840 B.C.
The
so-called Shepherd invasion was not completely successful, as Theban and Xoite
dynasties coexisted with the Shepherds during the period of their stay.
* See
notes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 14, pp. 53, 54, 56.
20
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES.
Finally the Shepherds were expelled, and the new kingdom was founded about
1640 B.C. From that time, to the present, the pathway of history is
comparatively plain.
In the
third century B.C. Manetho,* an Egyptian priest, by order of the king wrote a
history of Egypt. He divided the history of the Egyptian kings into thirty
dynasties, covering a period of 5000 years.
B.C.
But
Bockh places the accession of the first Egyptian king at .............. 5702
Unger.............................................
...............
5613
Mariette Bey................
.....................................
5004 Lenormant............
............................................
5004
Brugsch Bey........
.............................................
4458 Lauth...............
..............................................
4157
Ferguson.....................
..................................
3906 Lepsius.......................
...................................
3852
Bunsen.........................
..................................3623
As the
above comprises some of the best and most recent authorities on this subject
it would place the beginning of the first dynasty as early cer tainly as 4500
B.C.
The
only country that has seriously competed with Egypt for the first mention in
history is Chaldea-Babylonia. But the antiquity of Chaldean ' civilization
compared with the Egyptian will be seen from the following carefully prepared
table:
Years. Commencing B.C.
I....................
...1 Chaldean,
25 2438
II............................
...8 Medes,
224 2418
III............................
.11 Chaldeans,
258 2234
IV............................
.49
458 1976
V............................
...9 Arabians,
245 1518
VI............................
.45 Assyrians,
526 1273
VII.............................
..8
122 747
VIII.............................
.6 Chaldeans,
87 625
Persian
conquest.-
538
As
inscriptions on tablets recently discovered among the ruins have confirmed the
correctness of this table, it may be assumed to closely approximate the true
chronology of that country from Nimrod to Cyrus.
*
Rawlinson : Hist. An. Egypt, vol. ii., p. 6 ; Herodotus, xi., 100, 142;
Ferguson, vol. i., p. 112. t Ferguson, vol. i., pp. 144, 145.
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES. 21
Rawlinson says (vol. ii., p. 22) : "The Old Empire of Manetho is a reality. It
lives and moves before us in the countless tombs of Ghizeh, Saccarah, and
Beni-Hassan, on the rocks of Assouan and the Wady-Magharah, on the obelisk of
Heliopolis, and in numerous ancient papyri; its epochs are well Marked; its
personages capable in many cases of being exhibited distinctly; its life as
clearly portrayed as that of the classical nations. And that life is worth
studying. It is the oldest presentation to us of civilized man which the world
contains, being certainly anterior, much of it, to the time of Abraham; it is
given with a fullness and minuteness that are most rare, and it is,
intrinsically most curious."
Intelligent man has, in all ages, realized the existence of two unseen but
potent spirits-one, the spirit of good, from whom all blessings are derived,
and the other the spirit of darkness, the evil 'spirit. Nowhere was the
religious spirit so early and so fully manifested as in the Orient, the land
of the Bible. This was especially true of Egypt, where the religious feeling
was so strong that it entered into and mingled with all the affairs of life.*
The
conditions under which the Egyptians lived also rendered them astronomers, as
a knowledge of the movements of the principal planets was necessary to enable
them to regulate their tillage, so strangely crossed by that disposition
peculiar to their country.
From
her wise men, astronomers, and leaders in religion came the priesthood of
Egypt, and by the priesthood was developed the ancient system of science and
religion designated the " Mysteries; " and prior to the Christian era all
progress made in civilization was due to organizations known by the general
name of Mysteries. The most noted of these societies were, first, the
Egyptian, commencing 2500 B.C., followed by the Eleusinian; Samothracian,
Gnostics, Dionysian, and Mithraic.
The
doctrine of the Egyptian Mysteries embraced Cosmogony, Astronomy, the Arts,
Sciences, Religion, and the Immortality of the Soul.
By
impressive rites and ceremonies they endeavored to lead the neophyte from
darkness to light, from ignorance to knowledge, morality, and religion.
*See
pp. 50 to 53 ; also notes 37, 38, 41, pp. 59, 60. t Notes 6, 11, 15, 32, pp.
54, 55, 56, 59.
1
Notes 9, 39, 42, pp. 55, 60 ; also Mysteries, p. 116.
22
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES.
At
first only the better class, including candidates for the priesthood, were
admitted into the Mysteries. Later, however, many from the ranks of the common
people were initiated, but before proceeding further, they had to pass an
examination so rigid, that comparatively but few could reach the greater
Mysteries.
The
priests, seeing that it was impossible for the neophyte to perceive the truths
of science and religion except when illustrated by symbols, used symbols
adapted to that purpose. Consequently two forms of ethics and religion began
to prevail, one for the initiates in the higher Mysteries, and the other for
the mass, who could perceive nothing beyond the symbol or image with which
they were instructed. Therefore they naturally came to worship the image,
hence became Pagans, with all that that term signifies, including the orgies
charged to the Mysteries at large.
The
knowledge of the symbolic language in which the priesthood concealed the real
truths was carefully kept within the sacred circle of those who had been
advanced to the highest grade of the Mysteries, but the public rites and
ceremonies were open to all the people.
The
great reverence shown the priests was due to their erudition, and the fact
that the sacerdotal functions were hereditary. In fact, the Hierophants of
Egypt constituted a sacred caste, which exercised such a controlling influence
in the government that even the kings were to a great extent subject to its
domination. The priests were divided into castes, and the castes were divided
into different ranks. Their dress and mode of living were governed by strict
rules, regulating and directing every act of the lives of kings and people.
Concerning the functions of the different ranks of the priesthood, we learn
from Clemens of Alexandria that in their holy processions the Singer occupied
the first place, carrying in his bands an instrument of music. He was
obliged to learn two of the books of Hermes, one of which contained hymns
addressed to the gods and the other the rules by which a prince ought to
govern.
Next
came the tree, which were the master of the four Horoscopus, holding a clock
and a branch of a palm-symbols of astrology. He was required to be a complete
books of Hermes, which treat of that science. One of
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES
23
these
explained the order of the fixed stars, the second the motion and phases of
the sun and moon, the other two determined the times of their periodical
rising.
Then
followed the Hierogrammatist, or Sacred Scribe, with a book and rule in his
hand, to which were added the instruments of writing, ink and a reed. He had
to know the hieroglyphics and those branches of science which belonged to
cosmography-geography and astronomy, especially the laws of the sun, moon, and
five planets; he should be thoroughly acquainted with the geography of Egypt,
the course of the Nile, the furniture of the temples and of all consecrated
places.
After
these was an officer denominated Stolistes, who bore a square rule, as the
emblem of justice, and the cup of libations. His charge included everything
which belonged to the education of youth, as well as to sacrifices,
first-fruits, hymns, prayers, religious pomp and festivals, and
commemorations, the rules of which were contained in ten books. This
functionary was succeeded by one called the Prophet, who displayed on his
bosom a jar or vessel for carrying water, a symbol thought to represent the
sacred character of the Nile. He was attended by persons bearing bread cut in
slices. The duty of the Prophet, as President of the Mysteries, made it
necessary for him to be perfectly acquainted with the ten books called
sacerdotal, and which treated of the laws of the gods and of the whole
discipline of the priesthood. He also presided over the distribution of the
sacred revenue dedicated to the support of religious institutions.
Thoth
was represented bearing in his hands a tablet and reed pen, sometimes - a
palm-branch and pen. It was his special office to be present in Amenti when
souls were judged, to see their deeds weighed in the balance and record the
result. It was he who composed the "Ritual of the Dead," at least its more
important portions. He also wrote a book filled with wisdom and science.
There
were altogether forty-two books of Hermes, the knowledge of which was
necessary; of these thirty-six contained the philosophy of the Egyptians, and
were carefully studied by the officers mentioned, and the remaining six
comprised medicine and surgery.'
*See
Mysteries, p. 95.
24
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES
Egyptian mythology comprised a certain number of divinities, principal among
which, were Osiris, Isis, Serapis, Hermes, Amun, Ptha, and Typhon.
Isis
was the personification of universal nature, the parent of all things, the
sovereign of the elements. On the front of the temple of Isis was cut this
inscription: Isis, am all that has been, is, or shall be, and no mortal hath
ever unveiled me." This goddess was symbolized in different forms; first and
principally, as the moon and as queen of the ocean. As queen of the ocean Isis
is represented on ancient Egyptian coins as a girl holding a sistrum and
unfurling a sail. Around her are the stars of heaven.
Osiris,
the sun god, represented the abstract idea of the divine goodness or the
attributes of Deity.
Serapis represented the principal attributes of the judge of the dead and the
keeper of Hades.
Hermes
was the god of science, art, and eloquence.
Amun
was also a god of the sun; he was subsequently the Jupiter Ammon of the Romans
and Zeus of the Greeks.
Ptha
was the god of fire and life, and afterward the Prometheus of the Greeks.
Typhon
represented the spirit of evil. His attributes were similar to those of
Serapis.
In
nearly all the earlier forms of religious worship God was worshipped under the
symbol of the sun. We also find the sun alluded to in the Scriptures as the
most perfect and appropriate symbol of the Creator.
The
Mysteries, in their primitive form, taught the unity of God and the
immortality of the soul of man as their cardinal doctrines, and that the sun
was the symbol of Him whom the firmament obeys.*
The
Ritual of the Mysteries was founded upon the legend of the death and
resurrection of the sun-god, Osiris.
The
Mysteries were in the form of a tragic drama, representing the singular death
of Osiris, the search for his body by Isis, and its discovery and resurrection
to life and power.
The
attack of Typhon, the spirit of darkness, upon Osiris, who is slain, * Note
10, p. 55 ; Mackey, pp. 514, 515; Macoy, p. 137 ; Stellar Theology, p. 20.
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES.
25
was
enacted amid terrible scenes, during which the judgment of the dead and the
punishments that the wicked suffered were represented as realities to the
neophyte. Following this was the search for the body of Osiris, which was at
last found concealed in the mysterious chest, after which the mutilated
remains were interred amid exclamations of sorrow and despair. The ceremony
closed with the return of Osiris to life and power, and amid effulgent beams
of light, were seen the resplendent plains of Paradise.
Therefore the ceremonies represented a mystical death and descent into the
infernal regions, where sin was purged away by the elements, and the initiated
were said to be regenerated and restored to a life of light and purity. The
ordeal was also a test of fortitude.
The
Mysteries were celebrated once a year, when candidates were inducted into the
degrees, viz. : of Isis, Serapis, and Osiris.*
THE
FIRST DEGREE - ISIS
Of the
ceremonies pertaining to these degrees we know but little, except that due
inquiry was made as to the candidate's previous life, and at the time of
initiation he was required to make confession. He was then taken charge of
by a guide, who conducted him down through a low, dark passage to a
subterranean apartment, where he met guards representing the tutelary deities
of the temple, who demanded answers to certain questions, which, being given,
he was conducted through another passage to the apartments for initiation,
where he was subjected to severe trials, at the conclusion of which he was
required to take a solemn and binding oath of secrecy and fidelity.
THE
SECOND DEGREE - SERAPIS
This
degree, like the first, was preparatory to the third, and the adept was
required to take an additional obligation.
THE
THIRD DEGREE - OSIRIS.
After
due time had passed, and the adept had given an exhibition of the requisite
proficiency, he was raised to the third or highest degree, in which he
* See
notes 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, p. 57; Mackey, pp. 242, 243.
26
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES.
represented Osiris, his death and resurrection. The conclusion of the
obligation of this degree was as follows: "May my departed spirit wander in
eternal misery, without a place of rest, should I ever violate the obligations
conferred upon me by the Hierophants of the Sacred Mysteries."
Many
of 'those who were initiated into the Mysteries entered the corporations of
architects and builders, who erected the temples and other splendid edifices
designed for the worship of Deity; in short, from this class came the rulers,
priests, and architects of Egypt, its warriors and statesmen.
As the
Eleusinian Mysteries were copied from the Egyptian, they constituted a
complete reflex of them; and the Eleusinian having been practised down to A.D.
389 (see Hayden, p. 306), we have authentic data for a fuller description of
their ceremonies-a description that will apply to the Egyptian Mysteries, as
well as to the latter society.
THE ELEUSINIAN MYSTERIES
This
institution was established in Greece, 1800 B.C., and when Eleusis was
conquered by Athens, the inhabitants, while surrendering everything else,
would not yield their mythologies and Mysteries.
The
Mysteries were of two kinds - the Greater and the Less, the latter being
preparatory to the Greater; and, like the Egyptian, they were celebrated once
a year. For their purposes a magnificent temple of vast extent was erected at
Eleusis. This edifice consisted of the sanctuary, or hall for the ceremonies
of the Mysteries, the anactoron, or Holy of Holies, and a vast subterranean
labyrinth for the ordeals pertaining to the induction of candidates into the
degrees. The ceremonies were grand and impressive throughout. The Hierophant
(High Priest) sat in the east upon a magnificent throne and was arrayed in a
splendid robe. Around him were seven brilliant lights representing the seven
planets. The principal officers in attendance were the Priest, at the altar,
the Dadochus, and the Herald. Over the head of the Hierophant a beautiful arch
was represented, above which the moon and seven stars were seen. From his neck
was suspended a golden globe. In addition to the officers, he had twenty-four
attendants, clad in white
*Royal
Masonic Cyclopxdia, p. 193 ; also see note 16, p. 56.
t Note
33, p. 59; Mackey, p. 248.
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIEITG'S AND MYSTERIES. 29
robes,
all wearing golden crowns, representing the twenty-four ancient constellations
of the upper hemisphere.*
Rhea,
who led the procession in search of the body of her lost companion,
represented the moon.
The
duty of the Dadochus - Torchbearer, was to impose silence on the assembly, and
command the profane to withdraw.
The
Priest officiated at the altar and wore a symbol of the moon. The Herald
preserved order, compelled the uninitiated to retire at the command of the
Dadochus, and punished all those who disturbed the sacred rites.
Bondmen and those with bodily defects were not admitted into the Mysteries.
THE FIRST DEGREE
Previous to the initiation of a candidate due inquiry was made concerning his
previous life; be was required to pass through a period of probation, make
confession, and undergo lustration. t Finally, at the time appointed for the
ceremonies, he was clothed in a dark robe and blindfolded. After being thus
prepared he was conducted down through a dark and circuitous passage, into a
cavern, where he heard the roar of wild beasts, the hissing of serpents, and
was startled by terrible thunder and lightning. At length he was confronted by
a massive door, on which was an inscription signifying that "he who would
attain to the perfect state must be purified by the three great elements."
Immediately after reading this the door slowly swung open and he was thrust
into a place shrouded in darkness, where he was tossed about by a whirlwind.
He was next compelled to cross a hall into which darted flames of fire,
threatening his life. This ordeal passed, he was thrown into a dark and swift
stream of water, across which he had to swim or drown. If the candidate had
thus far exhibited manly courage and fortitude he was conducted to the great
hall of the Mysteries, where, in the presence of the assembled priests and
adepts, he took the oath of fidelity and secrecy. He then received the
instructions and benediction.
*
Stellar Theology, p. 12; Royal Masonic Cyclopaedia, p. 194; Mackey, p. 247. t
See Mysteries of Free Masonry, pp. 137, 159; see notes 27-29, p. 58.
j See
Gould, vol. i., p. 14 ; Stellar Theology, p. 10 ; also notes 13-24, 25, 26,
pp. 55, 56, 57, 58.
30
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES.
THE SECOND DEGREE
After
a twelve-month's probation the candidate - adept was advanced to a higher
degree.
In the
ceremonies of this degree sacrifice was made for the candidate and he took
another oath or obligation. He was then invested with the sacred cloak, and
mystic scarfs, a crown of palm-leaves was placed upon his head, and he was
called Mystae.
THE THIRD DEGREE
This
degree represented the death of Bacchus (Osiris), the search for his body, and
its resurrection. At the termination of another period of probation the adept
was accorded a second advance-was raised to the third degree of the Mysteries.
Therefore, after due preparation, he was conducted through a labyrinth amid
horrible scenes into an apartment, the walls of which were draped in black and
hung with emblems of death.
Scenes
of terror multiplied, and the horrors of Tartarus were seen in the
distance. A tragic drama was enacted, in which a murder was committed by
three ruffians, a bier rose before him on which lay a dead body. A funeral
dirge was chanted, dusky phantoms (Rhea and attendants in search of the dead)
passed before him, the corpse was missed from the bier, then suddenly a flood
of dazzling light burst through the gloom, and standing in its centre the
candi date in amazement saw the resurrected body. Exclamations of triumph and
joy were now heard on every side, the fearful ordeal was over, and the
brilliant spectacle of the Elysian fields and the bliss of the purified was
presented.* In conclusion the candidate was conducted to the altar and
took upon himself the obligation of this degree and was instructed in the
Ritual. He was then called Epoptae.
The
horrors exhibited at the commencement of these ceremonies were intended to
represent the condition of the wicked in another life, and the closing scene
portrayed the abode of the blessed. The miseries of Tartarus and the happiness
of Elysium were contrasted, being pronounced by the priests to be a true
picture of what actually takes place in the future place of existence.
* See
notes 28, 30, p. 58 ; also see Mackey, pp. 247, 248, 249; Stellar Theology,
pp, 13,14; Royal Cyclopiedia, p. 188 ; Macoy, pp, 124-129 ; Gould, vol. i.,
pp. 13, 14.
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES. 33
THE CABIRI OF SAMOTHRACIA
The
three principal figures of the Egyptian ceremonial were carried to Berytus, in
Phoenicia, and thence into several islands of the Agean Sea. Their worship
became very famous, especially in Lemnos, and in the island of Samothracia,
which lies near it.
They
were called the Cabiri (cabirim, potentes), meaning the powerful gods.*
Many
noted persons were initiated into these Mysteries, among whom we find such
names as Orpheus, Hercules, and Ulysses.
Speaking of the Samothraciau Mysteries, Voltaire asked (Dict. Philo.") : "Who
were the Hierophants - those sacred Free Masons who celebrated their ancient
Mysteries - and whence came they?"
GNOSTICS
The
Gnostics were divided into many sects, and their Mysteries reach back to an
early date. The best authorities agree that Gnosticism was an attempt to solve
the problems of theology by combining the elements of the Egyptian Mysteries
with the Jewish and Christian traditions.
THE DIONYSIAN MYSTERIES AND
ARCHITECTS
These
Mysteries, like the others, comprised a tragedy-a murder, search for the body,
its discovery and restoration to life. They were celebrated throughout Greece,
Asia Minor, and Syria. Their Egyptian origin is shown by the fact that the
Dionysian priests devoted themselves to the study and practice of
architecture. About 1000 B.C. they established a society known as the
Dionysian Architects, and were accorded the exclusive privilege of erecting
the temples, and other public edifices. They were divided into companies,
each one of which was governed by officers corresponding to the officers of a
Masonic Lodge.
They
practised charity, had a system of secret words, and used several of the
implements of Free Masonry.
That a
branch of this society was located at Tyre, at the time of the
* Note
31, p. 59; also Mysteries, p. 58.
t See
Mackey, p. 222 ; Royal Masonic Cyclopsedia, pp. 157, 158.
3
34
ANCIENT SECRET SOCIETIES AND MYSTERIES.
building of King Solomon's Temple, is well attested by history. In 300 B.C.
they settled at Teos, where for centuries they practised their arts and
Mysteries, making journeys to adjoining countries when their services were
called for. In this way it is believed that at least a part of the traveling
bands of Free Masons originated.