Scottish Rite Masonry (1-32°)

Introduction

An overview/summary/synopsis of the book ‘Morals & Dogma’ - Written by 33° Freemason Albert Pike. Pike was instrumental in designing the rituals behind the first 32 degrees of Scottish Rite Masonry. This book was his magnum opus explaining the meaning and allegory within each degree, linking the foundations of Masonry back to Ancient Egypt, Kabbalah, Hermeticism, and Alchemical teachings. In this blog post Ill summarize each of Pikes explanation of each degree, as well as explain my own esoteric interpretation of a few different degrees. You can read the whole book Morals & Dogma (over 800 pages) here.

1° Entered Apprentice

Representing spiritual infancy and the candidate’s entry into the search for enlightenment. Pike presents Masonry as a progressive path toward self-improvement and divine wisdom, symbolized by the Light—a recurring motif that represents both intellectual illumination and hidden spiritual truths. The candidate is considered a rough Ashlar, an unpolished stone that must be refined through discipline and morality. While Christianity is referenced, Pike subtly introduces Hermetic and Kabbalistic themes, suggesting that true enlightenment requires breaking away from dogmatic religious structures.

2° Fellowcraft

Pike heavily discusses the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences, highlighting geometry as the divine science that reveals God’s blueprint for the universe. He suggests that sacred geometry and numerical mysticism—themes found in Pythagorean and Kabbalistic traditions—are crucial to understanding Masonic truths. Pike also implies that true Masonic wisdom is not given openly but must be earned and decoded through intense study. The degree subtly alludes to the ancient Mystery Schools, hinting that the true nature of the Great Architect of the Universe (GAOTU) is obscured and will be revealed in later degrees.

3° Master Mason

The Master Mason degree introduces the allegory of Hiram Abiff, the architect of Solomon’s Temple who is murdered for refusing to reveal the Master’s Word. Pike presents this as a symbol of the soul’s journey, with Hiram representing the hidden esoteric knowledge that has been suppressed by corrupt powers. The resurrection of Hiram is not just a Christian allegory but also a direct parallel to ancient Osirian, Dionysian, and Mithraic initiations, where initiates experienced ritual death and rebirth to access higher wisdom.

4° Secret Master

With the transition to the Scottish Rite, the candidate is introduced to the idea of obedience and discipline. Pike ties this degree to the concept of secrecy, suggesting that true wisdom is concealed and only revealed to those who are worthy. He discusses the necessity of hierarchical structure in both society and Masonry, arguing that only through disciplined study can one attain enlightenment.

5° Secret Master

The Fifth Degree serves as a bridge between the earlier moral lessons of the Blue Lodge and the deeper esoteric teachings of the higher degrees. Pike uses it to introduce the concept of justice as a cosmic law, reinforcing the Mason’s duty to uphold righteousness at all costs. Pike also connects the Fifth Degree to the moral laws of the Old Testament, particularly those concerning justice, duty, and reverence for the past. He frequently invokes Solomon’s wisdom, emphasizing that the Mason must seek inner balance and wisdom over mere ritualistic adherence to doctrine.

6° Intimate Secretary

At the core of this degree is the idea of duality—secrecy and revelation, justice and mercy, authority and humility. Pike explains that a true Mason must balance these forces within himself, understanding that knowledge is a double-edged sword: when wielded by the worthy, it is a tool for enlightenment and progress; when misused, it becomes an instrument of manipulation and destruction. One of the key lessons of this degree is that secrecy is not simply about withholding knowledge but about knowing when, how, and to whom wisdom should be revealed. Pike draws upon biblical and historical figures to illustrate this point. He references the relationship between King Solomon and Hiram, the architect of the Temple, as an example of mutual trust and discretion. He also mentions Jonathan's unwavering loyalty to David despite the latter being an enemy of his father, King Saul.

7° Provost and Judge

One of the core themes in this degree is the concept of karma and divine retribution. Pike argues that the universe operates on a system of moral cause and effect. He draws from Hermetic and Kabbalistic traditions, emphasizing that one’s actions—good or bad—inevitably return to the individual. In this context, Pike encourages Masons to strive for moral perfection by aligning their behavior with divine law, as failure to do so will ultimately result in retribution. Two key symbols are central to this degree: the scales of justice and the sword. The scales represent the balance between right and wrong, truth and falsehood. In the ritual, the initiate is shown how the scales must be kept even, symbolizing the necessity of impartial judgment. The sword, often seen as an instrument of both justice and punishment, represents the ability to cut through falsehood and deceit.

8° Intendant of the Building

The central allegory of the Eighth Degree revolves around the idea of building—not just physical buildings but the spiritual temple of the soul. Pike draws clear parallels between the Masonic work of building a temple and the process of self-improvement. Just as Solomon’s Temple was said to be built with divine guidance and meticulous craftsmanship, so too must the initiate’s soul be constructed with purpose, discipline, and devotion to moral law.

9° Elu of the Nine

This degree marks one of the earliest references to Lucifer, not as a figure of worship but as a symbol of enlightenment. Pike suggests that the "light-bearer" (Lucifer) represents knowledge, rebellion against oppression, and the pursuit of divine truth—a concept found in Gnostic, Kabbalistic, and Hermetic traditions. This degree is also centered on avenging the murder of Hiram Abiff, symbolizing the battle against tyranny, corruption, and ignorance. Pike discusses the Knights Templar, linking their persecution by the Catholic Church to a war between hidden esoteric forces and external religious powers. He suggests that true Masonry is an underground resistance against oppressive authorities, subtly implying that the Church has distorted spiritual truth to maintain control over the masses.

10° Master of the Secret

The Tenth Degree is deeply rooted in the symbolism of secrecy. This secrecy is not seen as a barrier to knowledge but rather as a safeguard to ensure that sacred wisdom is only passed on to those who are capable of understanding and using it appropriately. One of the central symbols in this degree is the veil, which symbolizes the separation between the known and the unknown, between those who are prepared and those who are not. The closed book represents the hidden knowledge that is not to be revealed to all. It is a symbol of the divine mysteries that can only be understood by those who have reached a certain level of spiritual maturity. At the conclusion of the ritual, the initiate takes an oath, pledging to keep the secrets they have been entrusted with and to use them only for the greater good.

11° Sublime Knight Elected

The ritual emphasizes solemnity and responsibility, with key symbols including the scales of justice, the sword, the Book of the Law, and the throne. The initiate’s role is to internalize justice and judgment, applying them to both their own life and in their interactions with others. In the Eleventh Degree, the initiate steps into a role of moral leadership, embodying the principles of judgment and justice as divine and unchanging laws. They are called not only to reflect on their own life but to lead by example, ensuring that justice, fairness, and integrity guide their actions.

12° Grand Master Architect

Pike notes, "The Temple of Solomon was the greatest and most splendid work ever executed by human hands; it is a symbol of the perfect and harmonious soul which the Mason must labor to build." The temple represents the human soul, and the building of it is the work of self-perfection. The initiate is taught that their life is analogous to the temple, and they must work to create a sanctuary of moral purity and spiritual insight. The initiate, having journeyed through earlier degrees, now takes on the role of a leader in the building process. This responsibility comes with a higher degree of initiation and signifies that they are ready to contribute to the construction of the grand spiritual edifice, which is both a personal and collective task.

13° Royal Arch of Solomon

Pike writes, "The Royal Arch is the emblem of the mystical journey, a passage between the physical and spiritual realms. It is the bridge between ignorance and knowledge, between the earthly and the divine." The central narrative of the Thirteenth Degree is the completion of Solomon's Temple. Solomon's Temple is not just a physical structure but represents the soul of the initiate and the grand work of building one's spiritual life.

14° Grand Elect Mason

The initiate in the Fourteenth Degree is taught that their role is not just as a student of the mysteries, but as a “Grand Elect Mason”—a title that signifies mastery and the ability to perform sacred work. This is a degree of action and responsibility, where the initiate is expected to take the lessons learned and apply them in service to others. Pike concludes the teachings of the degree by saying, “The Grand Elect Mason swears to continue his journey of spiritual purification, knowing that each step forward brings him closer to the eternal light of truth. This is the work of a lifetime, and only through continual effort will the Mason achieve his goal of spiritual perfection.”

15° Knight of the East

Pike states, “The sword is not only the instrument of external conflict but also a symbol of the internal struggle—the battle against ignorance, vice, and darkness within oneself. The Knight of the East stands not only as a defender of the world but also as a conqueror of his own faults and errors.” The degree also introduces the idea of the “sword of light”—the weapon of the enlightened Mason, who uses knowledge and spiritual insight to combat ignorance and vice.

16° Prince of Jerusalem

Pike explains, “Jerusalem is the emblem of the divine presence, and the Prince of Jerusalem must emulate the ideals of that city in his own life. The city is a symbol of the highest spiritual attainment, and to be a true Prince of Jerusalem is to embody these ideals of justice, wisdom, and moral leadership.” One of the central themes of the Sixteenth Degree is the role of the Mason as a leader. However, this leadership is not about external power or authority but about inner strength and moral integrity.

17° Knight of the East and West

Here, Pike rejects the exclusivity of Christianity, stating that Masonry transcends all religions and incorporates elements from various traditions. He suggests that Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are merely fragments of a greater esoteric truth preserved in secret societies. Here Pike makes another reference to Lucifer - "Lucifer, the Light-bearer! Strange and mysterious name to give to the spirit of darkness! Lucifer, the Son of the Morning! It is he who bears the light, and with its splendors intolerable, blinds feeble, sensual, or selfish souls?"

18° Knight Rose Croix

One of the most significant degrees in the Masonic hierarchy. It is highly symbolic and deeply philosophical, drawing upon the themes of resurrection, transformation, and the triumph of light over darkness. “The Knight Rose Croix is one who has passed through the trials of material existence and who, through his faith, hope, and charity, has been transformed. He has died to the old self and been reborn as a true servant of the divine light. This resurrection is a spiritual one, and it is through this process that the soul achieves the highest form of enlightenment.” The initiate is led through the dramatic reenactment of Christ’s death and resurrection, which symbolizes their own journey of spiritual renewal.

Personal Interpretation - The name Rose Croix in the Eighteenth Degree of the Scottish Rite, Knight Rose Croix, holds deep significance, both symbolically and historically, and reflects a direct connection to the Rosicrucian Order. The Rosicrucians, a mystical and esoteric society that emerged in the early 17th century, greatly influenced the development of various occult traditions, including Freemasonry.

Robert Fludd was an English physician, Rosicrucian, and occultist who is linked to the early development of Freemasonry.

Elias Ashmole was an English antiquarian, Rosicrucian, and one of the earliest known Freemasons. He is often considered a founding figure of speculative Freemasonry and was initiated into the Masonic Order in 1646.

Sir Christopher Wren, the famous English architect best known for designing St. Paul’s Cathedral, was also a Rosicrucian figure in early Freemasonry.

Francis Bacon - A leader/pioneer of the Rosicrucian order who was massively influential with the founding of Freemasonry. Wrote “The New Atlantis”, which laid the blueprints for the Freemasons founding of America.

Its safe to say, without the Rosicrucian order, Freemasonry would not exist, and this degree pays homage to that.

19° Grand Pontiff

Explores the idea of the pontiff or priest as a figure who mediates between the divine and the mortal realm. A pontiff, in this context, symbolizes a spiritual leader who conveys sacred truths to humanity and helps guide the individual’s journey toward higher spiritual knowledge. Pike writes "The Pontiff is the representative of the people in the presence of the Divinity, and the minister of God on Earth. He is the mediator between Heaven and man, and his work is to offer sacrifice and prayers for the people’s well-being."

20° Master Ad Vitam

Pike writes “The true master is not one who rules over others, but one who serves them. The Master Ad Vitam is one who has learned to serve and by that service, has achieved mastery over himself and the world around him.” The rituals are also meant to convey the eternal nature of the Freemason's service to humanity. The Master Ad Vitam is not a rank given once but is rather a lifetime commitment. A key element of the ritual involves the candidate being bound by cords. Pike explains that the cords represent the ties of duty, moral responsibility, and the bonds that connect the Freemason to the people he serves.

21° Prussian Knight

Deeply rooted in the Biblical narrative, specifically the story of Noah and the Covenant made after the flood. The two pillars, Jachin and Boaz, are frequently mentioned in this degree, representing the two pillars that were said to stand at the entrance of King Solomon’s Temple. Pike connects these two pillars to strength and establishment in the moral and spiritual sense. A noteworthy symbol explored by Pike in the 21st Degree is the Swastika, a symbol used in the ancient world that signified cosmic order and divine harmony. Pike discusses how the swastika, as an ancient symbol of the wheel of life, represents the cyclic nature of existence and the eternal return of moral truth and justice.

22° Prince of the Royal Secret

Pike writes “The Royal Axe is the symbol of the just ruler, one who wields divine justice with the power to cut through falsehood and corruption. The axe, though powerful, is never used recklessly, for it symbolizes the wisdom to know when and how to act.” The degree also has deep connections to the Ancient Mysteries, particularly those of Egypt and Babylon, where the knowledge of spiritual truths was passed down from the ancient priests and philosophers.

23° Chief of the Tabernacle

Pike writes “The Tabernacle is the house of God, where the Ark of the Covenant is kept. So too, in the heart of the true initiate, the sacred wisdom must be guarded, preserved, and kept pure.” As the Tabernacle was illuminated by the divine fire, so too must the heart of the initiate be filled with light, that they might act as bearers of the sacred flame of wisdom and truth.”

24° Prince of the Tabernacle

The 24th Degree (Prince of the Tabernacle) in Morals and Dogma delves deeply into themes of spiritual kingship, the mystical nature of the divine law, and the concept of the soul as a Tabernacle. It teaches the initiate to understand their role as both a priest and a king, serving the divine while also protecting and preserving the sacred mysteries.

25° Knight of the Brazen Serpent

The Brazen Serpent is the central symbol in this degree, originating from the biblical narrative where Moses, instructed by God, makes a serpent of bronze and lifts it on a pole to heal the Israelites from venomous snake bites. In the degree, this serpent is an emblem of healing that comes from divine knowledge. Pike writes “To look upon the serpent is to focus on the divine light that can redeem and purify, lifting us from the darkness of ignorance into the radiance of wisdom and understanding.”

26° Prince of Mercy

Focuses heavily on the themes of mercy, divine justice, and the balance between the two. In the ritual of the 26th degree, the initiate is tasked with embodying the role of the Prince of Mercy. This role requires the initiate to act with both compassion and wisdom. Pike writes “The sword represents justice, which defends the order of the universe; the shield represents mercy, which protects the soul from the ravages of sin. Together, they form the harmony of divine law.”

27° Knight of the Sun

Centers on the idea of illumination, esoteric knowledge, and the pursuit of wisdom. Pike writes “The truth is not hidden from the seeker. The Sun shines upon all things, and so does divine wisdom. But it is the task of the Knight of the Sun to search for it with faith and perseverance, for only through this search does the soul become illuminated.” Pike teaches that the truth is available to all, but it requires diligent and courageous searching to embrace it.

28° Prince Adept

Delves deep into cosmology, alchemy, philosophy, science, and the search for divine truth. The initiates of this degree are taught that Hindu, Greek, Egyptian, Jewish, and Christian mystical traditions all share the same essential truths, merely expressed in different cultural and symbolic forms. “There has ever been one true religion—the divine worship of the Supreme Wisdom, whether known as Osiris, Brahma, Ormuzd, Jehovah, or Christ.” Pike makes it clear that this degree is not about dogma but about personal enlightenment—a path that requires reason, study, and an open mind.

29° Knight of St. Andrew

Pike presents this degree as an extension of the medieval ideals of knighthood, blending elements of Templar traditions, Scottish history, and philosophical enlightenment. The Knight of St. Andrew is a defender of truth, a seeker of enlightenment, and a warrior against oppression. Pike presents this degree as a challenge to the initiate: Will you be a passive observer, or will you actively defend truth and wisdom in a world that seeks to suppress them? Pike writes “Throughout history, the greatest enemy of truth has been the priesthood, which, wielding the sword of ignorance, has ever sought to enslave mankind.”

30° Knight Kadosh

This degree is one of the most militant and revolutionary in Morals and Dogma. Pike presents the Knights Templar as martyrs who were destroyed by the Catholic Church and European monarchies to suppress esoteric truth. He implies that Masonry carries on the Templar legacy of seeking hidden wisdom and resisting religious tyranny. The Skull and Dagger emblem used in this degree symbolizes the revenge against the persecutors of the Templars, a theme that fuels theories that Masonry has always harbored anti-Catholic and revolutionary sentiments.

31° Grand Inspector Inquisitor Commander

Pike writes “The true Mason, as an Inquisitor, condemns only the guilty, acquits only the innocent, and judges not from prejudice, but from truth.” This degree warns against tyranny, showing how misuse of power has led to injustice throughout history. The ritual of the 31st Degree places the initiate into a mystical courtroom, where they must weigh truth and falsehood. The candidate is presented with cases of moral conflict and must make ethical decisions that test their wisdom and impartiality. A symbolic weighing of the soul takes place, reminiscent of Egyptian mythology, where Ma’at weighed the hearts of the dead. This degree challenges Masons to become true seekers of justice, ensuring that their judgments are based on truth, not personal bias or external pressure.

32° Master of the Royal Secret

Pike writes “The Royal Secret, of which you are a Master, is that the human will, operating through the Divine Reason, is omnipotent.” Pike reveals the "Royal Secret"—that Masonry's true mission is to prepare humanity for a new age of enlightenment, where religious and political hierarchies will be replaced by a universal system based on wisdom, reason, and esoteric truth. It is in this context that Pikes 3 World Wars prophecy comes to light - which suggests a long-term Masonic agenda to use global conflicts to reshape civilization. The plan explained by Pike goes as such…

World War I: To overthrow monarchies and weaken religious influence.
World War II: To create a Zionist state in Palestine.
World War III: To create a global conflict between the West and Islam, leading to the destruction of both and paving the way for a new world order based on Luciferian enlightenment.