Way of the Hermit

In this concluding episode of their five-part series, David and Gene explore the final 22 sayings of the Gospel of Thomas (93-114), revealing the text's most profound mysteries about spiritual transformation and divine realization.These culminating teachings address the protection of sacred wisdom ("pearls before swine"), the gradual process of inner transformation symbolized by yeast working through dough and hidden treasure requiring patient excavation, all of which support the ultimate goal of uniting the dual aspects of consciousness in the alchemical "Sacred Marriage."The hosts delve into Jesus's radical redefinition of kinship in spiritual rather than biological terms, the three Gnostic worlds of Spirit, Soul, and Matter that require different navigational approaches, and the esoteric meaning behind traditional spiritual practices like prayer and fasting. They examine the provocative final saying about Mary Magdalene needing to become "male," as representing the need for integration of analytical and intuitive faculties into divine wholeness - and how the saying speaks to the tension between orthodox (Peter) and esoteric (Mary) interpretations of spiritual truth.Other concepts discussed include:the door of consciousness that opens from within through persistent spiritual "knocking,"the distinction between those who seek firsthand Gnosis versus blind obedience (the "black sheep" who wanders away from the flock),and the intimate spiritual communion described as "drinking from Jesus's mouth."The episode culminates with the hosts' realization that the Gospel of Thomas presents the most revolutionary concept in Gnostic literature: that achieving Gnosis is itself the divine pattern - a fractal process where God comes to know Himself through human self-discovery, making each individual's spiritual journey a unique cosmic contribution requiring active practice rather than passive study.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction01:52 Sayings 93-9507:19 Sayings 96-9812:41 Sayings 99-10117:28 Sayings 102-10421:05 Sayings 105-10726:26 Sayings 108-11030:25 Sayings 111-11441:55 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesCreative Evolution by Henri BergsonThe Exegesis of Philip K. Dick by PKDThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and Gandy

In this episode, David and Gene continue their exploration of the Gospel of Thomas, examining sayings 70-92. These sayings focus on navigating the duality between spiritual and material worlds and the constant choices we must make between them.The esoteric meaning behind the sayings of Jesus in the Gospel are discussed, starting with the call to activate the latent "divine spark" within us - a spiritual conception or “virgin birth” (Saying 70). They interpret Jesus' saying about the destruction of the "house" (Saying 71) as referring to a personal apocalypse of Gnosis, an irreversible transformation of one's worldview. Jesus's refusal to be a "divider" of possessions (Saying 72) highlights the spiritual realm's inherent unity and the need to integrate the divided aspects of the self.Further discussion touches on the rarity of those undertaking the spiritual harvest (Saying 73) and the tendency to seek fulfillment externally in "empty wells" instead of looking within (Saying 74). The "solitary ones" who are allowed entry to the "wedding hall" (Saying 75) are presented as those who have achieved inner wholeness, akin to the "Chemical Wedding" in alchemy.David and Gene explore Jesus speaking as the omnipresent Logos ("I am the All," Saying 77), touching upon pan-psychism and the need to look beyond the surface of reality. They contrast seeking external validation (Saying 78, 91) with the necessity of internal realization and trusting inner authority.The hosts delve into the hidden nature of consciousness (Saying 83) and the profound challenge of confronting our divine archetypal "likeness" - “our original face before we were born.” (Saying 84). They discuss how the divine pattern must be tried through the fire of earthly life (Saying 85), and how the "Son of Man" finding "no place to rest" (Saying 86) as symbolic of humanity's hybrid nature, caught between two worlds.The episode concludes by examining the spiral nature of spiritual seeking, where readiness dictates understanding (Saying 92), and how reflecting on, and engaging with these profound sayings is itself a transformative process.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction01:41 Review03:10 Sayings 70-7207:25 Sayings 73-7512:18 Sayings 76-7816:39 Sayings 79-8118:54 Sayings 82-8423:50 Sayings 85-8728:23 Sayings 88-9031:34 Sayings 91-9234:34 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and GandyYou're Not the Observer—You're the Observed (YouTube)Lateralus - Tool (Spotify)

In this episode, David and Gene continue their discussion of the Gospel of Thomas, exploring sayings 47-69 of this profound and mysterious Gnostic text. The sayings it contains offer timeless insights into the spiritual path, providing guidance for those striving to transcend material attachments and awaken to higher consciousness.Building on their previous discussions, they delve deeper into the themes of spiritual unity, overcoming duality, and the transformative nature of self-realization.Their discussion begins with Saying 47, which uses a variety of vivid metaphors to illustrate the need for overcoming the dualities within ourselves and the means by which we can reconcile old cognitive frameworks with new spiritual truths. Sayings 48-49 emphasize achieving harmony within oneself and creating an internal sacred space for introspection. David and Gene interpret these teachings as a call to overcome internal duality and embrace wholeness, drawing parallels to esoteric traditions like the "Sacred Marriage" and Jungian individuation.Sayings 50-52 delve into the origins of light in the Gnostic tradition, the cyclical nature of existence, and esoteric meaning of "death" and "resurrection." The hosts unpack these teachings with references to Gnostic cosmology, emphasizing the importance of inner awareness over external rituals or authorities.The discussion continues with Sayings 53-55, which contrast external religious practices with inner spiritual work. Themes of detachment from societal conditioning and cultivating spiritual poverty emerge as essential steps toward true enlightenment.Sayings 56-58 explore the transient nature of the material world, the value of struggle in spiritual growth, and the importance of discernment in timing one's personal transformation. The episode concludes with Sayings 59-69, which address the urgency of seeking truth, protecting one's spiritual vitality from lower distractions, recognizing true authority, and maintaining connection with divine wisdom despite worldly persecution. Throughout their discussion, David and Gene attempt to bring clarity to these ancient teachings, revealing how they speak directly to the modern seeker's quest for self-knowledge. Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction01:41 Review03:06 Saying 4707:02 Sayings 48-4910:09 Sayings 50-5213:22 Sayings 53-5517:02 Sayings 56-5820:14 Sayings 59-6124:22 Sayings 62-6428:03 Sayings 65-6732:00 Sayings 68-6935:07 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and Gandy

In this episode, David and Gene continue their exploration of the Gospel of Thomas, examining sayings 24-46 of this enigmatic Gnostic text. Building on their previous discussion, they delve deeper into the three-world Gnostic cosmology: the unity of the spiritual Pleroma, the duality of the realm of Soul/Mind (Heaven), and the unity in multiplicity of the physical world (Earth).They begin by discussing a listener comment about "combining all religions," noting that spiritual unity might indeed be the ultimate goal, as suggested in Ephesians 4:13, where the original Greek terms "Gnosis" (knowledge) and "Pleroma" (fullness) reveal deeper meaning about attaining wholeness through divine knowledge.This section of the Gospel contains powerful teachings about spiritual discernment and self-mastery:Sayings 24-26 emphasize finding inner light rather than seeking externally, loving others as manifestations of the divine, and addressing one's own spiritual blindness before criticizing others.Sayings 27-29 contrast spiritual awareness with material distraction, describing humanity as "drunk" with worldly concerns rather than "thirsty" for self-knowledge, while marveling at how consciousness (great wealth) resides within physical form (poverty).Sayings 30-32 outline the three stages of Gnostic initiation and the importance of consistent spiritual practice in establishing one's character as "a city on a high mountain."Sayings 33-35 explore spiritual discernment, warning against following blind guides while encouraging the sharing of inner wisdom.Sayings 36-41 address detachment from material concerns, the suppression of symbolic readings of sacred texts, and the principle that spiritual understanding multiplies when cultivated.Sayings 42-44 discuss becoming "passers-by" (detached observers), judging teachers by their fruits, and the consequences of acting against one's own experience of truth.Sayings 45-46 conclude with teachings on cultivating positive thoughts and transcending the ego, with John the Baptist representing the consciousness that can see Gnosis as the goal but requires the "final stroke" of ego death to achieve it.Throughout their analysis, David and Gene reveal how these ancient sayings speak to the modern seeker's journey toward self-realization, offering insights into overcoming material attachments, developing spiritual discernment, and achieving wholeness by overcoming the delusion of the false self.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction03:41 Review04:57 Sayings 24-2608:01 Sayings 27-2911:32 Sayings 30-3214:38 Sayings 33-3517:43 Sayings 36-3819:51 Sayings 39-4122:42 Sayings 42-4425:16 Sayings 45-4628:26 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and GandyFederico Faggin on Idealism, Quantum Mechanics, Free Will, and Identity

In this episode of the Way of the Hermit Podcast, David and Gene begin their exploration of the Gospel of Thomas, a collection of 114 enigmatic sayings attributed to the “Living Jesus,” that, like the other Gnostic texts discovered in the cache at Nag Hammadi, Egypt - challenges conventional religious notions.Unlike the cosmological narrative of the Secret Gospel of John, the teachings in the Gospel of Thomas are distilled into koan-like paradoxes and parables, designed to provoke self-realization. Labeled heretical by early church fathers, this primary text of the “Thomasine Tradition,” rejects dogma in favor of direct spiritual revelation, urging initiates to meditate on its riddles to awaken their divine nature, so as to “not taste death.”This episode discusses the first 23 sayings. Here are highlights from the sections:Sayings 1–3: immortality comes by transcending physicality and materiality through self-knowledge and identification with consciousness, while the path to sovereignty (“becoming king over the All”) demands confronting disturbing truths.Sayings 4–7: delve into Jungian shadow work, where innocence must be reclaimed consciously, and spiritual mastery requires “eating the lion” (integrating instinctual forces symbolized by the Demiurge).Sayings 8–11: contrast transient heavens with eternal unity, using metaphors like the fisherman's “large fish” (ultimate truth) and the disruptive “fire” that the teachings help kindle, to dismantle outdated paradigms.A pivotal moment arises in Saying 13, where Thomas receives three secret words - keys to spiritual, soul, and material realms - after recognizing Jesus's ineffable nature, also highlighting Peter's and Matthew's limited interpretations of Jesus as merely a prophet or a philosopher.Later sayings (14–23): critique performative piety, urging alignment with the “unborn” (bornless) divine essence within. These sayings include Kabbalistic references, and also refer to the alchemical unification of male/female polarities.The episode culminates in Saying 23's stark reminder that few attain full unity with the divine - a “spiritual alchemy” reserved for those willing to dissolve egoic barriers, to die to who they thought they were, in order to become a “Twin of Jesus,” a spiritual master.David and Gene contextualize Thomas' role as the archetypal Gnostic doubter, whose insistence on firsthand gnosis mirrors the text's radical claim: that we are all potential “twins” of Christ, tasked with resurrecting the reflection of the divine, in our mind, heart and hands.Deep Dive:The Gospel of ThomasChapters:01:15 Introduction02:45 History and Significance05:10 The Gospel of Thomas06:36 Sayings 1-309:24 Sayings 4-712:02 Sayings 8-1115:43 Sayings 12-1319:14 Sayings 14-1622:59 Sayings 17-1925:27 Sayings 20-2330:15 ConclusionsResources:The Gospel of Thomas (history and various translations - Gnosis.org)Gospel of Thomas (Patterson and Robinson translation)Gnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Freke and Gandy

In this episode of Way of the Hermit, David and Gene conclude their deep dive into The Secret Gospel of John, uncovering its profound esoteric teachings on self-awareness, spiritual awakening, and the cosmic struggle between light and darkness.Picking up where the last episode left off, they explore how the creation of Eve symbolizes a division within Adam's unified self, representing the separation of conscious and subconscious aspects. This psychic split, orchestrated by the Demiurge, obscures humanity's divine nature, setting the stage for the journey back to wholeness. Eve, embodying the hidden spark of divinity (the luminous Epinoia), becomes a key figure in awakening Adam to his true nature - a process that mirrors humanity's longing for self-realization and unity.The conversation delves into the symbolic narratives of Cain and Abel, representing material desire versus spiritual transience, and Seth, who emerges as a figure of divine recognition and alignment with higher consciousness. David and Gene unpack how these archetypes reflect humanity's inner struggles and potential for liberation. They also discuss the “fate of souls,” emphasizing how choices influenced by either the Divine Spirit or Counterfeit Spirit determine one's spiritual trajectory - liberation, imprisonment, or punishment.Finally, David and Gene examine the redemptive role of the Perfect Pronoia, who descends into darkness to awaken humanity from spiritual slumber. Her three attempts at awakening symbolize stages of moral preparation, philosophical understanding, and spiritual realization, mirroring the Blue Lodge Degrees of Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite.The episode concludes with an exploration of how Gnostic texts like The Secret Gospel of John serve as seeds (or mental viruses) planted in fertile minds, bearing fruit through shared understanding. So, join us for this thought-provoking conclusion to a discussion of one of history's most profound spiritual texts.Deep Dive:Secret Book of JohnSecret Gospel of John correspondencesChapters:01:15 Introduction02:07 Review05:28 Creation of Eve08:16 Adam and Eve11:23 Cain and Abel14:48 Seth17:59 The Fate of Souls20:51 Chain of Fate25:27 Redemption29:30 ConclusionsResources:The Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Apocryphon of John - Frederick Wisse TranslationGnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl Jung

In this episode of Way of the Hermit, David and Gene continue their exploration of the “Secret Gospel of John,” delving deeper into the text's esoteric description of the evolution of consciousness.The primary story arc of this episode concerns the awakening of self-consciousness and awareness, and also the accompanying feeling of being “not whole.” The narrative follows how Sophia, representing dawning self-awareness, experiences her separation from divine unity, leading to a profound journey of anguish, realignment and restoration. In a response from heaven to Sophia's prayers, heaven grants a vision to her son, the Demiurge, of what the “perfect man” looks like. But, this “image of god” is distorted, as it is reflected down through the worlds into manifestation, resulting in man's plight.This portion of the narrative of the “Secret Gospel of John” can be seen as the blackening phase of the alchemical process. It is the complete descent of spirit into matter, where it is in a sense, imprisoned, and yet, it is the spark that can reignite the ascent home.David and Gene discuss the idea of building and embodying a living temple, and how the blueprint for such a construction, is an unfolding of “archetype of archetypes,” the same pattern that unfolds and becomes embodied in everything that exists.So join us, as we continue our in-depth discussion of one of the most important spiritual texts of all time - “The Secret Gospel of John.”Deep Dive:Secret Book of JohnSecret Gospel of John correspondencesChapters:01:15 Introduction02:00 Review07:33 Sophia's Call12:16 Pleroma's Response16:34 Creation of Man20:42 Body of Light23:32 Luminous Epinoia27:54 Light Trapped in Shadow31:17 Tree of Death35:00 ConclusionsResources:MiddleChamber.org - Symposium on Masonic EsotericaThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Apocryphon of John - Frederick Wisse TranslationGnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl Jung

In this episode, David and Gene continue their exploration of the Secret Gospel of John, delving into its complex cosmology and comparing it with Neoplatonic philosophy. They review the discussion from the previous episode that detailed the first phases the evolution of consciousness through the emanations of (1) the Monad (pure undifferentiated consciousness - will), (2) Barbelo (first reflection - thought), and (3) Christ/Autogenes (self-generated awareness - life). They draw parallels between ancient spiritual concepts and contemporary neuroscience, and discuss how these concepts relate to the modern understanding of consciousness and psychological development. The conversation explores the emergence of the Four Lights from Autogenes and their correspondence to the Four Worlds of Kabbalah, representing different levels of consciousness from spiritual to physical.This text for this episode focuses on the dramatic turn in the narrative with the appearance of Sophia of the Epinoia and her creation of the Demiurge - a lion-faced serpent representing primal consciousness without higher reasoning. The text details how this "blind idiot god, born of chaos" creates the Archons (rulers) in an attempt to mirror the higher realms, resulting in a distorted reflection of divine patterns that governs the material world. In this episode, David and Gene (as always) weave together insights from various esoteric traditions, including Masonry, Kabbalah, Hermeticism, alchemy, and Christian Gnosticism, showing how these ancient texts are intended as grimoires or textbooks, detailing sophisticated models for understanding consciousness and human psychological development.Deep Dive:Secret Book of JohnSecret Gospel of John correspondencesChapters:01:15 Introduction02:29 Review05:32 Neoplatonism10:38 Autogenes14:03 The Four Lights19:06 Pigera-Adamas22:24 Sophia Epinoia25:52 The Demiurge29:09 The Archons33:53 A Jealous God36:52 ConclusionsResources:MiddleChamber.org - Symposium on Masonic EsotericaThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Apocryphon of John - Frederick Wisse TranslationGnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl Jung

In this episode, David and Gene begin their exploration of "The Secret Gospel of John," also known as the "Apocryphon of John," a pivotal text in the Sethian Gnostic tradition. They discuss the text's history, its multiple versions, and its significance as a comprehensive presentation of Gnostic cosmology and theology.The discussion delves into the concept of the Monad, the ultimate unity in Gnostic thought, comparing it to similar ideas in Pythagoreanism and Kabbalah, and exploring its characteristics as the ineffable, unnameable source of all qualities. In the process, David and Gene draw parallels with modern cosmology and to the symbolism of the point within a circle, relating it to biological concepts like seeds and zygotes, while always emphasizing the text's primary focus, which is on the inner world of the mind.This episode introduces Barbelo, the first emanation from the Monad, representing forethought and the beginning of psychic evolution. David and Gene examine the qualities attributed to Barbelo and how these relate to human consciousness. They conclude by discussing the "birth" of Christ as a metaphor for the self-reflective development of mind, emphasizing the importance of understanding these texts as spiritual guidebooks rather than mere stories.This is the first episode of a multi-part series on the “Secret Gospel of John.” It begins the exegesis of the text, and also stage for a deeper exploration of Gnostic philosophy as a path of spiritual discovery and growth.Deep Dive:Secret Book of JohnChapters:01:15 Introduction02:39 The Apocryphon of John04:28 History of the Text07:02 Secret Book of John11:06 The Monad14:42 Point in the Circle20:22 Barbelo25:13 The Birth of Christ27:57 ConclusionsResources:MiddleChamber.org - Symposium on Masonic EsotericaThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Apocryphon of John - Frederik Wisse TranslationGnosis.org - The Gnosis ArchiveThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl Jung

In this episode, David and Gene delve into the fascinating world of Gnostic Christianity, exploring its origins, philosophical concepts, and enduring influence.The episode explores the historical and philosophical landscape that gave birth to Gnostic Christianity, focusing on Alexandria's crucial role as a melting pot of Eastern and Western thought. David and Gene also discuss the significance of the Septuagint and the works of Philo of Alexandria, in bridging Jewish and Greek philosophical traditions.The main Gnostic sects are introduced: the Sethians, Valentinians, Basilideans, Ophites, and Carpocratians, as well as the key texts associated with them, that were discovered in Nag Hammadi, Egypt. In preparation for later discussions, this episode summarizes many fundamental Gnostic concepts such as the Pleroma, Nous, Aeons, Barbelo, Sophia, the Demiurge, and the Archons.Carl Jung's contributions to understanding Gnosticism are examined, as are his interpretations of Gnostic concepts as representations of psychological processes and structures, shedding light on the potential of Gnostic thought to illuminate the human psyche.Deep Dive:Gnostic ChristianityChapters:01:15 Introduction02:43 Gnostic Christianity05:28 The Septuagint07:04 Philo of Alexandria09:34 Gnostic Sects11:54 Nag Hammadi Texts12:50 Gnostic Concepts15:14 Seven Sermons to the Dead17:04 Gnostic Psychology19:28 Gnostic Jung22:27 ConclusionsResources:MiddleChamber.org (A Symposium of Masonic Esoterika)Morals & Dogma: Annotated EditionThe Nag Hammadi ScripturesThe Red Book: A Reader's Edition by Carl JungSeven Sermons To the Dead by Carl JungGnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition of Inner Knowing by Stephan A. Hoeller

In this episode of "Way of the Hermit," David and Gene dive down the rabbit hole, into the world of Gnosticism and its connection to Freemasonry. They explore how Gnostic teachings, once considered heretical, were driven underground and lay buried for centuries until their rediscovery in the 20th century. They discuss the core principles of Gnosticism, emphasizing its focus on direct inner knowledge of the divine (gnosis) rather than adherence to dogma or external rules.The episode traces the historical suppression of Gnostic ideas by early Christian literalists and examines key figures in Gnostic thought, including Simon Magus, Philo of Alexandria, and G.R.S. Mead. David and Gene highlight the significance of the Nag Hammadi texts discovered in 1945, which provided unprecedented insights into Gnostic Christianity. They also explore the symbolic interpretations of religious and Masonic stories, arguing that these allegories contain deeper truths about human consciousness and spiritual awakening.The discussion draws intriguing parallels between Gnostic concepts and Masonic symbolism, suggesting that Freemasonry is perhaps a form of Gnosticism. They propose that the three degrees of the Masonic Blue Lodge, as well as the Masonic quest for the “Lost Word”, the three names of God and three temples in the Scottish Rite, correspond to the three stages of Gnostic awakening.Deep Dive:Nag Hammadi's Gnostic RevelationsChapters:01:15 Introduction01:36 Gnosticism04:02 Masonry is Gnosticism06:33 The Key to the Mysteries09:56 Church of the Antichrist13:19 Simon Magus15:49 Philo of Alexandria18:05 G.R.S. Mead21:21 Nag Hammadi24:45 ConclusionsResources:The Gnostics: The First Christian Heretics by Sean MartinJesus and the Lost Goddess: The Secret Teachings of the Original Christians by Tim Freke & Peter GandyNovo Clavis Esoterika by Timothy HoganGnostic Religion in Antiquity by Roelof van den BroekPistis Sophia: The Gnostic Tradition of Mary Magdalene, Jesus, and His Disciples by G.R.S. MeadFragments Of A Faith Forgotten by G.R.S. MeadCorpus Hermeticum by G.R.S. MeadSimon Magus: The Gnostic Magician by G.R.S. MeadGnostic John the Baptizer by G.R.S. MeadGnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition of Inner Knowing by Stephan A. HoellerThe American Religion: The Emergence of the Post-Christian Nation by Harold BloomThe Gnostic Gospels by Elaine PagelsGod is a Verb by David Cooper

In this episode, David and Gene begin their deep dive into Gnosticism and its intimate connection to Freemasonry. They explore the key concepts that form the foundation of Gnostic thought, including the Monad, Emanations, Duality, and the pursuit of Gnosis, and discuss how these ideas are woven into the fabric of Masonic philosophy, particularly within the Scottish Rite system.  The Way of the Hermit Podcast: https://www.wayofthehermit.comDavid and Gene discuss how the ancient wisdom traditions use symbols and allegories to convey deeper truths about the nature of reality and human consciousness. Through the symbols and stories of sacred scriptures, they conceal hidden truths, that are revealed to those who possess the key to their interpretation. They also delve into the historical context of Gnosticism, touching on its suppression by orthodox religious authorities and its survival through esoteric traditions, and how Gnostic concepts like the Aeons are related to the Kabbalistic Tree of Life.The conversation also draw parallels between Gnostic ideas and Masonic symbols and rituals, revealing the esoteric underpinnings of Freemasonry, and discuss the works of influential thinkers like Albert Pike, Carl Jung, and contemporary Masonic scholars who have recognized the Gnostic elements within Masonry.Join us we begin our exploration of the mysteries of Gnosticism and its profound impact on Freemasonry, and on the world... and find out what it really means, to establish a "New Order for the Ages." Deep Dive:Gnosticism, Freemasonry and GnosisChapters:01:15 Introduction04:03 Why Gnosticism?06:33 Freemasonry and Gnosticism09:21 The Perennial Philosophy11:37 The Monad14:16 Duality15:42 Allegories and Symbols17:58 Gnostic Heresy23:13 Gnosis26:18 ConclusionsResources:2024 Southeastern Masonic Symposium & HarmonyContemplative Masonry: Basic Applications of Mindfulness, Meditation, and Imagery for the CraftArcanum Podcast - Ike BakerGnostic Philosophy: From Ancient Persia to Modern TimesThe Alchemical Keys To Masonic RitualNovo Clavis Esoterika

In this episode, David and Gene delve into the world of esoteric Freemasonry with their esteemed guests, Worshipful Brother Ben Wallace and Most Worshipful Brother Shaun Bradshaw. As authors of the book "A Path to Providence", Shaun and Ben share their inspiring journey in reviving the mystery school roots of Freemasonry through the establishment of groundbreaking esoteric education programs in North Carolina. The Way of the Hermit Podcast: https://www.wayofthehermit.comFrom humble beginnings in small esoteric discussion groups to the formation of the first Traditional Observance Lodges in North Carolina, Ben and Shaun recount the challenges and triumphs they faced in introducing these programs to the Masonic community, as well as their vision for the future.Shaun and Ben emphasize the importance of "nudging" Masonry in a more esoteric and spiritual direction, as well as keeping their own curriculum within the bounds of Masonry while still exploring interconnections with other esoteric traditions. They discuss the development of the "Middle Chamber Program" for Blue Lodge Masons and the "Key to the Mysteries" initiative for Scottish Rite degrees, both aimed at providing a structured approach to esoteric education. They also discuss the profound experiences offered by the "Inner Chamber Experience", a capstone program involving guided meditations and other preparation for what has proven for many, to be a transformative Lodge exercise. In this fascinating conversation, Shaun and Ben share their insights on the role and future of Freemasonry, where they envision a shift towards greater emphasis on the philosophical, spiritual, and esoteric aspects of the Craft... and challenge listeners to not sit on the sidelines, but instead get involved with this esoteric movement at whatever level they feel capable.Join David, Gene, Worshipful Brother Ben Wallace and Most Worshipful Brother Shaun Bradshaw, on this enlightening exploration of the esoteric path within Freemasonry.Chapters:01:15 Introduction01:54 Shaun Bradshaw & Ben Wallace04:53 Esoteric Education11:41 Keeping it Masonic17:25 The Key to the Mysteries22:20 The Inner Chamber29:01 Outreach32:32 Closing Thoughts37:39 Concluding RemarksResources:A Path to Providence: The Creation of the Middle Chamber Program by Shaun Bradshaw and Ben WallaceObserving the Craft by Andrew HammerThe Way of the Craftsman by Kirk McNultyContemplative Masonry by Chuck DunningThe Meaning of Masonry by Walter WilmshurstFree Masonry: It's Hidden Meaning by George SteinmetzThe Rough and Rugged Road by Tony HornsbyIn Search of Light by Bob DavisContact Information:Most Worshipful Brother Shaun Bradshawshaun.bradshaw@zenergytechnologies.comWorshipful Brother Ben Wallacebengradywallace@gmail.com

In this first episode of the second season of the “Way of the Hermit” podcast we are “tying up loose ends” left over from last season. In this first part of our two-part season opener, we are looking at the book “A Path to Providence: The Creation of the Middle Chamber Program.”The Way of the Hermit Podcast: https://www.wayofthehermit.comIn "A Path to Providence", authors Shaun Bradshaw and Ben Wallace address the problems within modern Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite, offering solutions to revive the esoteric core of the craft. The book tells the story of the founding of the first "Traditional Observance" Lodge in North Carolina and the creation of an esoteric Masonic study program called "The Middle Chamber". It explains how the deeper meanings behind Masonic symbols were lost or forgotten in the post-World War II era, when membership swelled but understanding of the esoteric side diluted. Freemasonry today still largely reflects this era, with a focus on charities and business meetings rather than the profound truths of the ritual. Seekers of Masonic enlightenment often feel they are in the wrong place and drift away from the fraternity.Traditional Observance Masonry, a movement that began in the 1990s, aims to revive traditional Masonic practices, rituals, and symbolism to provide a more contemplative experience focused on esoteric and allegorical meanings. Andrew Hammer's book "Observing the Craft" is considered a manifesto of the movement, emphasizing the importance of taking time to observe and understand the wisdom within the symbols. In 2013, Sophia Lodge No. 767 was created as the first Traditional Observance Lodge in North Carolina, openly dedicated to the pursuit of esoteric knowledge. The book "A Path to Providence" shows how Brothers Bradshaw and Wallace addressed the problems of Freemasonry from the inside, making it official and sustainable through years of concerted effort. It also lays out a program of study that fills in much of the esoteric knowledge that is lacking in modern Masonic education. And they make a case that the time is ripe for a Masonic esoteric renaissance.Chapters:01:15 Introduction05:49 A Path To Providence08:50 Your Grandfather's Freemasonry11:07 The Esoteric Closet15:21 Traditional Observance17:45 Sophia Lodge20:59 The Middle Chamber Program24:49 The Inner Chamber Experience27:59 The Key to the Mysteries30:12 Summary & Outreach32:08 ConclusionsResources:Observing the Craft by Andrew HammerThe Way of the Craftsman by Kirk McNultyContemplative Masonry by Chuck DunningThe Meaning of Masonry by Walter WilmshurstFree Masonry: It's Hidden Meaning by George SteinmetzThe Initiatic Experience by Rob HerdThe Rough and Rugged Road by Tony HornsbyIn Search of Light by Bob Davis

In this brief episode, we discuss:Ongoing updates to the audio of the Season 1 episodes.An upcoming e-book and audiobook of our first Season.Plans for Season 2, which will begin in January 2024.

In this episode, we complete our discussion of “Morals and Dogma: The Annotated Edition” and the Scottish Rite System."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:The Double-Headed EagleYoung Albert PikeOld Albert PikeOverview:Introduction (01:14)Square and Compass (02:16)Double-Headed Eagle (03:04)Textbooks (04:14)Origins of the Degrees (06:18) Albert Pike (09:56)Esoteric Psychology (15:36)The Meaning of the Degrees (21:16)Conclusions (27:08)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Albert Pike (Wikipedia)Prince Hall Freemasonry (Wikipedia)Prince Hall (Wikipedia)Albert Pike Memorial (Wikipedia)House of the Temple (Wikipedia)Sigmund Freud (Wikipedia)Carl Jung (Wikipedia)Sigmund Freud and the Jewish Mystical Tradition (Amazon)The hidden Chasidic roots of Sigmund Freud (TheJC.com)Gnosis, Gnosticism and Jungian Psychology (Gnosis.org)The Gnostic Jung and the Seven Sermons to the Dead (Amazon)The Search for Roots: C. G. Jung and the Tradition of Gnosis (Amazon)The Birth of Tragedy (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 32nd Degree - “Master of the Royal Secret” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:32nd Degree Regalia32nd Degree - Encampment DiagramThe Hermaphrodite by Heinrich KhunrathOverview:Introduction (01:14)Ritual Setting (02:02)Degree Ritual (05:38)The Encampment (07:29)Degree Symbols (12:34)Morals and Dogma (16:02)White Light (17:48)Rainbow Bridge (19:58)Compass and Square (22:48)Spirit Over Matter (25:12)The Logos (27:14)Third Temple (28:54)The Sacred Word (33:13)Conclusions (34:58)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Solomon's Temple (Wikipedia)Tetragrammaton (Wikipedia)Second Temple (Wikipedia)INRI (Wikipedia)New Jerusalem (Wikipedia)Om (Wikipedia)Monochord (Wikipedia)Cymatics: Chladni Plate - Sound, Vibration and Sand (YouTube)

In this episode, we discuss the Lecture of the 31st Degree - “Inspector Inquisitor” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:31st Degree RegaliaWeighing the HeartGates of the Duat - 5th HourOverview:Introduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (02:07)Degree Ritual (03:27)Morals and Dogma (13:47)God's Justice (13:57)Human Justice (15:38)Ideal Justice (17:08)Tetractys (19:24)The Underworld (21:38)Hall of Truth (24:49)The Inquisition (26:25)Negative Confessions (28:14)Winged Sun Disk (31:41)King of the Two Lands (32:47)Conclusions (36:06)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Ten Sermons of Religion (Amazon)Book of the Dead (Wikipedia)Ennead (Wikipedia)Maat (Wikipedia)Negative Confessions (Wikipedia)Papyrus of Ani (Wikipedia)Christ's Harrowing of Hell (Wikipedia)Winged Sun (Wikipedia)Seker (Wikipedia)Tetractys (Wikipedia)Faravahar (Wikipedia)Winged Genie (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we complete our discussion of the Lecture of the 30th Degree - “Knight Kadosh” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:30th Degree RegaliaHeinrich Khunrath - Cosmic RoseJacques de MolayOverview:Introduction (01:14)Historical Setting (01:39)Degree Ritual (05:58)Purpose of the Degree (13:17)Morals and Dogma (13:59)New World Order (14:43)Knight of the East and West (17:28)The Templar Secret (18:55)From The Ashes (20:43)Ladder of Kadosh (21:38)Journey to the East (23:37)Down From the Mountain (26:20)View From the East (27:29)Angels Ascending and Descending (30:09)Conclusions (32:15)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Knights Templar (Wikipedia)Philip IV of France (Wikipedia)Pope Clement V (Wikipedia)Hugues de Payens (Wikipedia)Jacques de Molay (Wikipedia)Emerald Tablet (Wikipedia)Baucent (Wikipedia)Trivium (Wikipedia)Quadrivium (Wikipedia)Jacob's Ladder (Wikipedia)Friday the 13th (Wikipedia)Tour de Nesle Affair (Wikipedia)Church and state in medieval Europe (Wikipedia)Separation of church and state (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we complete our discussion of the Lecture of the 29th Degree - “Knight of the St. Andrew” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:29th Degree RegaliaOverview:Introduction (01:14)Degree Ritual (01:51)Purpose of the Degree (08:35)Morals and Dogma (09:09)Knightly Virtues (09:48)Science and Technology (11:50)Saint Andrew's Cross (15:57)Banner of the Order (17:31)Western Yoga (19:03)Crossing the Streams (20:05)Tetragrammaton (22:10)The Sphinx (23:39)The Lemiscape (26:13)The Juggler (27:12)Lucifer's Crown (28:57)Third Eye (31:25)Conclusions (33:20)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Andrew the Apostle (Wikipedia)Robert the Bruce (Wikipedia)“Outlaw King” Trailer (YouTube)Knights Templar (Wikipedia)Battle of Bannockburn (Wikipedia)Óengus II (Wikipedia)Picts (Wikipedia)Thistle (Wikipedia)Flag of Scotland (Wikipedia)Saltire (Wikipedia)Stream of Consciousness (Wikipedia)Magician Tarot Card (Wikipedia)Lemniscate (Wikipedia)Third Eye (Wikipedia)Pineal Gland (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we complete our discussion of the Lecture of the 28th Degree - “Knight of the Sun” (Part 3 of 3) as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:Knight of the Sun RegaliaBaphomet by Eliphas LeviThe Hermaphrodite by Heinrich KhunrathMacroprosopus by Eliphas LeviOverview:Introduction (01:14)Hidden Light (02:48)Formless Fire (05:18)Cosmic Egg (09:19)World Animal (10:49)Astral Light (14:06)Alchemy (15:38)Emerald Tablet (18:13)The Great Work (21:07)The True Nature of Sacrifice (24:06)Necessity, Liberty & Reason (26:33)Miracles (28:17)Magic (29:51)Dual Current (30:51)Baphomet (32:40)Sphinx (36:59)Conclusions (39:32)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Dogma and Ritual of High Magic (Amazon)Emerald Tablet of Hermes (Wikipedia)Orphism (Wikipedia)Phanes (Wikipedia)Lucifer (Wikipedia)World Egg (Wikipedia)Baphomet (Wikipedia)Rider-Waite Tarot (Wikipedia)Leo Taxil and Baphomet (NationalHeritageMuseum)That's Baphomet! (Chick Tracts)Trials of the Knights Templar (Wikipedia)Oedipus Complex (Wikipedia)Phrygian Cap (Wikipedia)Ananke (Wikipedia)Snake Goddess (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we begin our discussion of the Lecture of the 28th Degree - “Knight of the Sun” (Part 2 of 3) as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:Knight of the Sun RegaliaThe Hermaphrodite by Heinrich KhunrathMacroprosopus by Eliphas LeviOverview:Introduction (01:14)Morals and Dogma (01:37)Christian Interpretation of Blue Lodge Degrees (02:09)Gods of Heaven (04:17)Gods of Nature (05:40)Dionysus (07:11)The Ancient Mysteries (08:37)Rise of the Priesthood (11:46)Down the Rabbit Hole (13:34)Helen Keller (15:45)The Matrix (18:10)Living in a Dream World (21:04)The Clear Light (23:23)The Kabbalah (25:14)Stairway to Heaven (26:43)The Dual Current (29:20)Conclusions (30:32)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Zohar (Wikipedia)Joseph Cambell (Wikipedia)Dionysus (Wikipedia)Helen Keller (Wikipedia)Language (Wikipedia)Samadhi (Wikipedia)Emerald Tablet (Wikipedia)The Matrix (Wikipedia)The Matrix Meeting Morpheus Scene (YouTube)

In this episode, we discuss the Rituals of the 28th Degree - “Knight of the Sun” (Part 1 of 3) as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:Knight of the Sun RegaliaThe Hermaphrodite by Heinrich KhunrathMacroprosopus by Eliphas LeviOverview:Introduction (01:14)Ritual Background (01:59)Ritual of the Degree (03:32)The Original Ritual (10:44)Lecture of Brother Truth (18:49)Lecture of Father Adam (24:12)Lecture of Archangel Gabriel (29:53)A Tale of Two Rituals (32:13)The Golden Dawn (34:13)Conclusions (36:29)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Zohar (Wikipedia)Christian Knorr von Rosenroth (Wikipedia)Ancient of Days (Wikipedia)Adam Kadmon (Wikipedia)Rebus (Wikipedia)S.L. MacGregor Mathers (Wikipedia)William Wynn Westcott (Wikipedia)William Robert Woodman (Wikipedia)Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn (Wikipedia)Fraternity of the Inner Light (Wikipedia)Argenteum Astrum (Wikipedia)Ordo Templi Orientis (Wikipedia)Heinrich Khunrath (Wikipedia)Heinrick Khunrath's - “Amphitheater of Eternal Knowledge”

In this episode, we discuss the 27th Degree - “Knight Commander of the Temple” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images:“A Vigil” John Pettie (RA - Royal Academician)Knight Commander of the Temple - RegaliaOverview:Introduction (01:14)Ritual Context (03:20)Degree Ritual (03:46)Purpose of the Degree (12:47)Morals and Dogma (14:08)Truth (15:32)Religious-Military Orders (18:27)The Knight of Light Rises (21:07)Degree Apron (22:58)Conclusions (27:23)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Siege of Acre (1189–1191) (Wikipedia)Hospitaller commandery of Saint-Jean-d'Acre (Wikipedia)Teutonic Order (Wikipedia)Knights Hospitaller (Wikipedia)Knights Templar (Wikipedia)Sir Gawain and the Green Knight (Wikipedia)Heraldry (Wikipedia)Frederick Barbarossa (Wikipedia)Saladin (Wikipedia)Kingdom of Jerusalem (Wikipedia)True Cross (Wikipedia)John Pettie (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 26th Degree - “Prince of Mercy” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:26th Degree - Apron, Cordon and JewelJerusalem (by William Blake)Overview:Introduction (01:14)The Greater Mysteries (1:43)Degree Ritual (03:46)Purpose of the Degree (09:01)Morals and Dogma (09:57)The Great Reformers (10:17)Unseen Miracles (10:57)The Triple Triangle (13:09)The Three Sacraments (15:03)Beyond the Demiurge (18:07)First Cause (20:19)Where Do Thoughts Come From? (21:28)The Masonic Trinity (23:25)Palladium - Pallas Athene (24:59)Tessera (27:30)Conclusions (29:57)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)The History of the Christian Religion (Amazon)Palladium (Wikipedia)Athena (Wikipedia)Nashville Parthenon (NashvilleParthenon.com)Notarikon (Wikipedia)Gematria (Wikipedia)Yahweh (Wikipedia)Elohim (Wikipedia)Demiurge (Wikipedia)Yaldabaoth (Wikipedia)The Jesus Prayer (Wikipedia)Philip K. Dick (Wikipedia)William Blake vs The World (Audible)

In this episode, we discuss the 25th Degree - “Knight of the Brazen Serpent” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:The Brazen Serpent (engraving by Pierre Mejanel)25th Degree - Apron, Cordon and JewelOverview:Introduction (01:14)Degree Ritual (02:58)Purpose of the Degree (13:30)Morals and Dogma (14:38)Fallen Angels (15:48)Stairway to Heaven (18:13)Becoming Jacob (21:46)The Age of Aquarius (25:36 )Isis and Osiris (27:55)Angels and Demons (30:32)Idolatry by Cause & Effect (31:25)The Brazen Serpent (33:19)Conclusions (35:19)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)The Middle Chamber (MiddleChamber.org)Prince Hall Freemasonry (Wikipedia)Hamlet's Mill (Amazon)The Spiritual Science of the Stars (Amazon)The Geography of the Heavens (Amazon)The Origin of All Religious Worship (Amazon)Sabaean Researches (Amazon)The Progress of the Intellect (Amazon)The Worship of the Serpent (Amazon)Druze (Wikipedia)Sufism (Wikipedia)Nehushtan (Wikipedia)Rod of Asclepius (Wikipedia)Caduceus (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 24th Degree - “Prince of the Tabernacle” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:24th Degree - Cordon, Jewel and ApronHarmonia Macrosmica of Andreas Cellarius - Plate 05Harmonia Macrosmica of Andreas Cellarius - Plate 19Overview:Introduction (01:14)Ritual of the Degree (02:11)Purpose of the Degree (10:19)Morals and Dogma (11:54)Mysteries of Eleusis (12:06)Initiation (13:48)Death (15:33)Lingam and Yoni (16:43)The Sacred Marriage (18:41)Sic Mundus Creatus Est (20:29)Death as Transmutation (23:24)Transmigration & Past Lives (24:51)Heavenly Drama (25:28)The Myth of Osiris (27:08) Gate of Souls (30:51)The Mystic Egg (32:39)Rites of Purification (33:53)Conclusions (35:31)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Sukkot (Wikipedia)History of Initiation (Amazon)Apollonius of Tyana (Wikipedia)Hermes Trismegistus (Wikipedia)Eleusinian Mysteries (Wikipedia)Dionysus, Demeter, Persephone (Wikipedia)Sacred Way (Wikipedia)Telesterion (Wikipedia)Hierophant (Wikipedia)Typhon (Wikipedia)Maypole Scene from Wickerman (YouTube)The Spiritual Science of the Stars: A Guide to the Architecture of the Spirit (Amazon)Tikkun Olam (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 23rd Degree - “Chief of the Tabernacle” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:23rd Degree Cordon, Apron & JewelOverview:Introduction (01:14)Degree Ritual (01:38)Purpose of the Degree (11:10)Morals and Dogma (13:04)Symbols Taught Before Books and Letters (16:49)The Mysteries Unveiled the Purpose of Existence (17:30)Masonry, Like the Mysteries, Uses Symbolism to Teach (18:03)Imagery of the Mysteries (18:49)The Development of the Initiatic Rites (20:47)The Role of the Priesthood (21:51)Initiatic Process (22:34)Progress of the Mysteries (23:42)Pythagorean Mysteries (26:10)Mysteries of the Druids and Goths (26:54)The Egyptian Priesthood (27:44)The Encampment (30:13)The Tabernacle (30:37)The Holy of Holies (33:04)Conclusions (35:01)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)History of Initiation (Amazon)Vestments of the High Priest of Israel (Wikipedia)Tabernacle (Wikipedia)Zodiac (Wikipedia)Ark of the Covenant (Wikipedia)Eleusinian Mysteries (Wikipedia)Pythagoreanism (Wikipedia)The Sungod's Journey through the Netherworld (Amazon)Mysterium Coniunctionis - Collected Works of C.G. Jung, Volume 14 (Amazon)Kykeon (Wikipedia)Manna (Wikipedia)Eleusis: Archetypal Image of Mother and Daughter (Amazon)The Road to Eleusis: Unveiling the Secret of the Mysteries (Amazon)

In this episode, we discuss the 22nd Degree - “Knight Royal Axe”, as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:Knight Royal AxeOverview:Introduction (01:14)The Degree Ritual (01:33) Purpose of the Degree (08:59)Morals and Dogma (09:43)Work is Noble (10:41)Laborare est Orare, “Work is Worship” (14:56)Duty is With Us Always (17:25)Industry Lies at the Foundation of Human Improvement (19:50)The Poor Have Made Many Great Achievements (24:53)Masonry Ennobles Common Life (28:24)The Cedars of Lebanon (29:26)The Royal Ax (30:20)The Workshop (33:08)The Round Table (33:34)Conclusions (34:04)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Druze (Wikipedia)Sons of Noah (Wikipedia)Aholiab (Wikipedia)Bezalel (Wikipedia)Ezra (Wikipedia)Nehemiah (Wikipedia)The Matrix Reloaded - The Architect Scene Part 1 (YouTube)Oath of the Abyss (Hermetic.com)

In this episode, we discuss the 21st Degree - “Prussian Knight” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:The Tower of Babel (painting by Hans Bol)Harpokrates (sculpture)Overview:Introduction (01:14)The Degree Ritual (01:40)Purpose of the Degree (10:34)Morals and Dogma (13:45)Speak Evil of No One; Guard Over Yourself (16:12)Pantheism and Atheism Condemned (18:22)Be Satisfied That God is Real (21:18)The Noachites (22:54)The Tower of Babel (24:08)Moon Lodges (25:58)Jewel of the Degree (28:11)The Degree Apron (30:06)Conclusions (31:56)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Resolves, Divine, Moral and Political, of Owen Felltham (Amazon)Vehmic Court (Wikipedia)Noahidism (Wikipedia)Seven Laws of Noah (Wikipedia)Tower of Babel (Wikipedia)Harpocrates (Wikipedia)Sub Rosa (Wikipedia)What's a Moon Lodge (Orrstown Lodge)Tranquility Lodge #2000 (Actual Lodge on the Moon)Fiat justitia ruat caelum (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 20th Degree - “Master of the Symbolic Lodge” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Images and Diagrams:Pythagoras of Crotona (by J. Augustus Knapp) Overview:Introduction (01:14)Degree Ritual (01:39)Purpose of the Degree (10:59)Morals and Dogma (12:59)Ignorance and Innovations in Freemasonry (14:02)The Meaning of Masonic Titles (14:48)Masons Kneel Before God and Honor (15:51)The Scottish Rite is a Teacher of Great Truth (16:44)Masonry Teaches by Parable and Allegory (17:57)Exercise Humanity to Those Beneath You (19:20)Masonry is the Performance of Duty (19:57)Duties of the Masonic Classes (21:23)Duties of a Master of a Lodge (22:47)The 47th Problem of Euclid (24:58)Square Work (27:15)Thoth (29:01)Conclusions (31:05)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Thoth (Amazon)Pythagorean Theorem (Wikipedia)Squaring the Circle (Wikipedia)Trigonometry (Wikipedia)Kabbalah (Wikipedia)Numa Pompilius (Wikipedia)Hammurabi (Wikipedia)Mani (Wikipedia)Alfred the Great (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 19th Degree - “Grand Pontiff” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams19th Degree Jewel (front)19th Degree Jewel (back)High Priest's BreastplateColumn Placement & Traversal in 19th Degree RitualTree of LifeOverviewIntroduction (01:14)The Council of Kadosh (01:49)Degree Ritual (05:11)Purpose of the Degree (10:18)Morals and Dogma (11:34)Our Actions Continue After We Die (12:59)The Dead Govern, and the Living Obey (13:46)Sow, that Others May Reap (16:06)We Build Slowly and Destroy Quickly (16:43)Lucifer Blinds and Deceives Selfish Souls With His “Light” (18:49)The Apocalypse and the Symbolic Attributes of God (21:51)The Three Principles of Being (22:54)The Four Worlds of Kabbalah (24:18)Jewel of the Degree (26:56)Melchizedek, Priest of the Most High God (27:27)The Breastplate of the High Priest (29:00)The New Jerusalem (30:36)The Mark of the Beast (31:51)King Solomon is The Beast (34:01)No Buying or Selling (35:38)The New Law (36:53)LinksScottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Tree of Life (Wikipedia)Four Worlds of Kabbalah (Wikipedia)Number of the Beast (Wikipedia)Lucifer (Wikipedia)Solomon (Wikipedia)Melchizedek (Wikipedia)New Jerusalem (Wikipedia)The Cube of Space: Container of Creation (Amazon)

In this episode, we discuss the 18th Degree - “Knight Rose Croix” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)DiagramsKnight Rose Croix - EagleKnight Rose Croix - PelicanTree of LifeOverviewIntroduction (01:14)Ritual Setting (01:35)Purpose of the Degree (06:01)Morals and Dogma (08:56)The Enigma of Good and Evil (10:28)The Supreme Being (13:26)The Word or Logos (13:51)A Religion of Light (16:30)Light and Shadow (17:15)The Glory of the Heavens (18:55)The Dark Side of Doubt (20:48)The Human Instinct (23:09)The True Word (27:24)Double-Sided Regalia (29:35)The Rosy Cross (30:06)The Eagle and The Pelican (31:13)Crowned Compasses (32:30)The Tetractys (33:01)Conclusions (33:53)LinksScottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Histoire Critique du Gnosticisme (Amazon)Jesus (Wikipedia)William Blake's illustrations to Dante's Divine Comedy (Tate Museum )C. G. Jung and the Alchemical Renewal (Gnosis.org)Logos (Wikipedia)Gnosticism (Wikipedia)The Shape of Light: Hayakal al-Nur (Amazon)Tree of Life (Wikipedia)Tetractys (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 17th Degree - “Knight of the East and West” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)DiagramsSt. John's Vision (by Albrecht Dürer)17th Degree Tracing Board17th Degree Jewel Front17th Degree Jewel BackTree of LifeOverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (02:04)Purpose of the Degree (04:35)Morals and Dogma (07:22)A Survey of Ancient Religions (10:41)Timeline of Religious Influences (12:41)Gnosticism (15:19)The One True God (17:18)Emanation (18:00)Allegorical Reading of Scriptures (20:26)Personified Attributes of Deity (22:39)Logos - The Creative Word (23:24)Contending Forces (24:43)The Kabbalah (26:02)The Tracing Board (29:40)The Degree Ritual (32:04)The Jewel of the Degree (35:34)Conclusions (38:14)LinksScottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Histoire Critique du Gnosticisme (Amazon)Apocalyptic Literature (Wikipedia)Zoroastrianism (Wikipedia)Gnosticism (Wikipedia)Philo (Wikipedia)Kabbalah (Wikipedia)A Garden of Pomegranates (Amazon)The Mystical Qabalah (Amazon)Z'ev ben Shimon Halevi (Amazon)Aryeh Kaplan (Amazon)Gershom Gerhard Scholem (Amazon)

In this episode, we discuss the 16th Degree - “Prince of Jerusalem” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Hebrew LettersOverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (02:50)Morals and Dogma (06:06)Justice and Equity (07:50)Labor is Noble and Ennobles the Spirit (10:18)There is a Secret in the Simplest Things (16:10)Mankind is Endowed with Noble Virtues (20:09)The Degree Apron (22:23)Cordon of the Degree (24:52)Jewel of the Degree (26:26)Conclusions (28:09)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Discourses on Human Life (Amazon)Second Temple (Wikipedia)Kings of Judah (Wikipedia)Kingdom of Israel (Wikipedia)Kingdom of Judah (Wikipedia)Cyrus The Great (Wikipedia)Zerubbabel (Wikipedia)Haggai (Wikipedia)Zechariah (Wikipedia)Book of Zechariah (Wikipedia)Darius The Great (Wikipedia)Ezra (KingJamesBibleOnline)Nehemiah (KingJamesBibleOnline)Maat (Wikipedia)Lady Justice (Wikipedia)Work as a Spiritual Practice (Amazon)

In this episode, we discuss the 15th Degree - “Knight of the East” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Zerubbabel, Bound in Triangular Chains, Appears Before King Cyrus (engraving)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)The Chapter of Rose Croix (01:28)Mythological Setting (03:08)Morals and Dogma (07:15)What Does Duty Require? (11:31)What Masonry Teaches About God (13:45)God's Works Are Good (15:45)Symbols of the Degree (16:44)Liberty of Passage (19:51)From Mars to Jupiter (23:07)Reconciliation of Opposites (25:19)Trying Gold (27:39)The Triple Triangle (28:48)Conclusions (29:45) Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Babylonian Captivity (Wikipedia)Unity of Opposites (Wikipedia)Hegel's Dialectics (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy)Alchemy (Wikipedia)Thought Police (Wikipedia)Zeus (Wikipedia)Jupiter (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 14th Degree - “Perfect Elu” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion."Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:"Grand Elect Perfect and Sublime Mason" (engraving)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (02:28)Morals and Dogma (04:33)The Practical Object of Masonry (05:13)Laborare est Orare: Labor is Worship (06:43)Pure Religion is to Help Others and Keep Oneself Unspotted from the World (07:39)Nothing Can be Imagined More Excellent than God (11:53)God Concerns Himself With Human Affairs (13:38)Hiram: A Symbol of Humanity in its Highest Phase (14:18)God Has a Plan for His Creations (17:39)God's Existence is Self-Evident (18:29)God is Our Father, and We Are His Children (20:32)God's Laws are Designed for Our Happiness (21:23)No Good Work is in Vain (23:04)The Mason and This and The Future of Life (24:40)Masonry Imposes No Sectarian Doctrines (25:45)Symbolic Numbers (26:25)Jacob's Ladder Revisited (29:14)Solomon's Seal (30:32)The Perfect Elu Ceremony (31:22)The Cordon (32:10)The Apron (32:51)The 14th Degree Ring (33:16)The Fall of Solomon's Temple (34:48)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Scottish Rite for Children (ScottishRiteForChildren.org)Shriner's Children (ShrinersChildren.org)Ronald McDonald House (RHMC.org)Emerald Tablet (Wikipedia)Everything Belongs (Amazon)Be Here Now (Amazon)Real Alchemy (Amazon)

In this episode, we discuss the 13th Degree - “Royal Arch of Solomon” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition".  Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:"A Brother, Lowered Into a Subterranean Vault" (Engraving)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (01:49)Morals and Dogma (06:08)The Ineffable Name of God (06:52)Symbolism and the Name of God (10:50)Hebrew Monotheism (13:25)Masonry Includes the Communication of Esoteric Knowledge (15:26)Solomon's Temple Represented the Universe (17:50)The Lodge Represents the Universe (20:53)Preserving Liberty (23:02)The Religion of Toil, Life and Society (25:00)On the Religious Nature of Masonry (26:51)On the Law of Retribution (28:03)Symbols of the Degree (30:07)The Philosopher's Stone (31:24)Finding the Stone (32:36)Childhood & The Flood (34:44)The Perfect Ashlar (35:48)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)The Secrets of Enoch in the Masonic Tradition (Arturo De Hoyos) Tao (Wikipedia)Om (aka Aum - Wikipedia)Isaac Ben Solomon Luria (Encyclopedia.com)Primary texts of Kabbalah (Wikipedia.com)The Eight Gates of the Arizal (Safed.co.il)Jewish meditation (Wikipedia)Madonna - Isaac (YouTube)Chamber of Reflection (Wikipedia)V.I.T.R.I.O.L. (SymbolDictionary.net)Emerald Tablet (Wikipedia)The Gemstone Agate (Minerals.net)The Life and Teachings of the Ari (Kabbalah.com)

In this episode, we discuss the 12th Degree - “Master Architect” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition".  Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Jewel of 12th DegreeAncient Samaritan LettersOverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (01:46)Morals & Dogma (03:10)The Plight of Humanity (05:40)The Arch of Mystery (07:23)A Greater Life Beyond (08:38)Life is What We Make It (10:38)The Lures of Temptation (12:17)God Exists, and Cares for Us (15:33)Religious Faith is Indispensable to Masonry (21:52)Necessity of Society (23:26)Virtue Garners an Incomparable Treasure (24:40)Sensitivity of the Soul (25:24)Cognition Unlocks the Treasures of the Universe (27:05)Seal of Solomon (28:54)Five Columns and Orders of Architecture (29:54)Rule of Benedict (30:45)Astronomical Symbolism (31:55)Tools of the Master Architect (33:42)The Jewel of the Degree (34:34)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Hebrew4Christians.comCore Values: Benedictine Spirituality (Part 1 of 3)The Rule of Saint Benedict and the Origin of Masonic Ritual (Amazon)Rule of Saint Benedict (Wikipedia)Compass (Wikipedia)Sector (Wikipedia)Slide Rule (Wikipedia)Scale Ruler (Wikipedia)Parallel Rulers (Wikipedia)Polaris (Wikipedia)Ursa Major (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 11th Degree - “Elu of the Twelve” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Tree of Sin (WayOfTheHermit)OverviewIntroduction (01:13)Mythological Setting (01:42)Morals & Dogma (03:27)Sympathy for Suffering Humanity (04:39)The Subjugation of Avarice, Ambition and Sensuality (06:14)Disparity of the Social Classes (08:17)Masonry, A Champion of the People (09:33)Life is a School (11:41)Death is the Great Teacher (15:46)What Remains to be Done in Masonry (18:42)Masonry has Yet Much to Accomplish (21:51)Conclusions (25:08)The Golem (26:41)Vicere Aut Mori (29:00)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Discourses On Human Nature, Human Life, And The Nature Of Religion (Amazon)Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley (PoetryFoundation.org)Perfect Blue Buildings - Lyrics (CountingCrows.com)Egyptian Book of the Dead - 42 Negative Confessions (HouseOfTruth.education)The Path of Freemasonry with Mark Stavish (RightWhereYouAreSittingNow podcast)Grand Lodge of PennsylvaniaThe Path of Freemasonry: The Craft as a Spiritual Practice (Amazon)Golem (Wikipedia)The Hebrew Alphabet - Aleph (MysticalBreath.com)Spiritually Dead (Bible.Knowing-Jesus.com)

In this episode, we discuss the 10th Degree - “Elu of the Fifteen” as we continue our exploration of "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Elu of the Fifteen (engraving by Pierre Mejanel)Tree of Sin (WayOfTheHermit)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (01:40)Morals & Dogma (02:59)Respect of Private Religious Beliefs (03:30)Freemasonry Preserves Faith, But is Not a Religion (05:03)The Moral and the Good (07:47)The Dangers of Intolerance (9:51)Most Receive Religion At Birth, Not By Choice (11:35)What is Truth? (14:38)Freedom of Religion (16:34)Moral Precepts - Summary (18:03)Education and Moral Improvement (20:03)Charity is a Mason's Duty (21:15)The Rewards of Persistent and Steady Labor (22:23)Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor and Guide (23:15)Conclusions (24:49)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire (Wikipedia)Inquisition (History.com)Martyr (Wikipedia)Amsterdam Torture MuseumReformation (Wikipedia)Martin Luther (Wikipedia)Salem Witch Trials (History.com)Seven Deadly Sins (Wikipedia)Monty Python Spanish Inquisition Part 1 (YouTube)Zoroastrianism (History.com)Hávamál (Wikipedia)The Meaning of Namaste (Yoga Journal)Atman & Brahman (World-Religion-Professor)You Cain't Whup a Bear (Ed Francisco - AppalachiaBare.com)

In this episode, we discuss the 9th Degree - "Elu of the Nine" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Elu of the Nine (Engraving by Pierre Mejanel - ca. 1887)Overview: Introduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (02: 12)Freemasonry is Experimental and Practical (04:13)The Spirit is Willing, But the Flesh is Weak (06:17)Duty is With Us Always (09:12)A True Citizen, The Apostle of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity (10:43)Liberty (13:51)Power is Delegated for Good (15:40)Masonry Inspires Patriotism (17:46)Service is an Honor (19:04)Ritual - Monitor and Guide (21:30)A Bridge to Light (22:36)Free Barabas! (23:24)Go Into Your Cave (24:35)Shadow Work (29:06)Conclusions (29:56)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Carl Jung - Archetypes - The Shadow (Carl-Jung.net)Carl Jung and the Shadow: a Guide to the Dark Side of the Mind (ArtsOfThought.com)

In this episode, we discuss the 8th Degree - "Intendant of the Building" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Emblems of God (names of God on Tree of Life)Letters on the Triangle (engraving by Pierre Mejanel)OverviewIntroduction (01:15) Mythological Setting  (02:13)Morals and Dogma (04:08)Emblems of the Degree (10:47)Signs of the Degree (12:27)Mankind Seeks the Truth (13:19)Masonry Preserves Faith (14:08)Hoc Opus, Hic Labor Est (15:45)Masonry Does Not Dogmatize (19:34)Mankind Has Both Duty and Destiny to Fulfill on Earth (20:36)Life is a Divine Blessing (23:45)The Virtue of Contentment (24:44)Enjoy the Blessings of the Day (27:49)Principles Require Practice (29:24)Conclusions (30:45)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)The Whole Works of the Right Rev. Jeremy Taylor, Volume 1 (Amazon)The Creed of Christendom by William Rathbone Greg (Amazon)Discourses on Various Subjects by Orville Dewey (Amazon)Discourses on the Nature of Religion; And on Commerce and Business by Orville Dewey (Amazon)Intendant (Wikipedia)Oc opus, hic labor est (SubSubLibrarian)Avernus (Entrance to the Underworld - Wikipedia)Use of the terms "Dīs" and "Orcus" in the Aeneid (StackExchange)Stoics and Moral Philosophy - The 8 Principles of Stoicism (ThoughtCo)Decoding The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle (YouTube)Bob Marley - Get Up Stand Up (YouTube)

In this episode, we discuss the 7th Degree - "Provost and Judge" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion. "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites:Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:The Most Illustrious Delivers a key symbolic of the Masonic mysteries (Engraving by Pierre Mejanel, ca. 1887)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting (01:49)Morals and Dogma (05:39)Wrong and Injustice (08:30)Repentance and Restitution (11:12)Cause and Effect (11:59)Judge Righteous Judgment (13:35)Judge Only When Duty Mandates (17:17)Charity and Loving Kindness (18:51)Divine Judgment (20:19)Can You Escape Justice?  (21:25)The All-Seeing Eye  (22:05)What's in the Box?  (23:22)The Gold Key (24:51)Final Thoughts  (26:07)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)The Whole Works of the Right Rev. Jeremy Taylor, Volume 1 (Amazon)The Creed of Christendom by William Rathbone Greg (Amazon)Discourses on Various Subjects by Orville Dewey (Amazon)Discourses on the Nature of Religion; And on Commerce and Business by Orville Dewey (Amazon)The Story of Elijah and Rabbi Joshua ben Levi (Wikipedia)Collective Unconscious (Wikipedia)Astral Light (Wikipedia - Levi's Theory of Magic)Akashic records (Wikipedia)Edgar Cayce (Wikipedia)Eye of Providence (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 6th Degree - "Intimate Secretary" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)For the remaining degrees, we are supplementing the  "Morals and Dogma" material with selections from the Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide and A Bridge to Light. Diagrams:A Brother Discovers Hiram of Tyre in a Heated Conversation with Solomon (engraving by Pierre Mejanel, ca. 1887)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)Mythological Setting of the Degree (01:52)Morals and Dogma (04:50)Be Zealous and Faithful (05:56)We are Not Born for Ourselves Alone (06:42)The True Mason is Disinterested and Generous (09:57)The True Mason is a Peacemaker (10:45)Scottish Rite Ritual - Monitor and Guide (13:57)A Bridge to Light (14:20)Why Act the Peacemaker? (15:29)The First Awakening (16:43)Cultivating Peace Within Ourselves (18:48)The Power of Imagination (19:57)Take Me to the Pilot (21:58)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)How to Calm the Voice Inside | Eckhart Tolle Teachings (YouTube)A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose (Amazon)Oprah & Eckhart Tolle  - A New Earth (Chapter 1 of 10 on Podcast App)

In this episode, we discuss the 5th Degree - "Perfect Master" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)For the remaining degrees, we are supplementing the  "Morals and Dogma" material with selections from the Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide and A Bridge to Light.Diagrams:Lodge of the Perfect Master (Book of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry - 1867)OverviewIntroduction (01:14)Morals & Dogma (04:25)Stay Busy (05:09)Where is your mind? (06:55)Level, Plumb and Square (09:16)Contemplating Death (11:24)You Are Going to Die (14:22)A Few Good Men (17:46)Becoming Immortal (18:49)Fear Not a Good Death (21:49)Better Than Yesterday (22:24)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon)A Bridge to Light (Amazon)Steve Jobs Speech (YouTube)John Dies at the End (Wikipedia)Revenant (Wikipedia)How to conduct a Masonic Funeral (PhoenixMasonry)Aghori (Wikipedia)

In this episode, we discuss the 4th Degree - "Secret Master" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition".  Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)For the remaining degrees, we are supplementing the  "Morals and Dogma" material with selections from the Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide and A Bridge to Light.Overview:Introduction (01:15)Scottish Rite Degree System (04:41)Morals and Dogma - Chapter (08:12)Craft Degrees - An Introduction to Masonic PhilosophyThe True Mason is ActiveKnowledge and Wisdom Ennoble the SoulWisdom is Better Than StrengthDuty is the Object of MasonryBreast to BreastObedience to the LawBe True and FaithfulScottish Rite Ritual - Monitor and Guide (23:29) A Bridge To Light (25:14)Concluding Remarks (28:09)Links:Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide (Amazon.com)A Bridge to Light (Amazon.com)The Book of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry (PDF)What's the Difference Between a Monitor and a Ritual Book?Harpocrates (Wikipedia)Excalibur (1981 John Boorman film)Excalibur (script PDF)Philip K. Dick (Wikipedia)Meditations on the Tarot (Amazon.com)

In this episode, we discuss the 3rd Degree - "Master Mason" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition".  Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)Diagrams:Master Mason Tracing BoardCloseup of Tracing Board Epitaph ReversedMasonic Cipher KeyHebrew Alphabet ChartOverviewIntroduction (1:13)Symbols (3:48)Religious ExpressionGod is a SymbolNature as TeacherPopular Culture & Politics (7:11)Pop CultureRevengePoliticsPike the Pessimist?Philosophical Problems (13:00)47th Problem of EuclidSquaring the CirclePhilosopher's StoneThe Ancient Mysteries (16:12)The Fall of ManFree WillLightPike's HieroglyphHiram Abiff (21:06)Name EtymologyThe Legend of Hiram AbiffDark Night of the SoulThe Secrets of a Master MasonKabbalah (26:38)Four WorldsTree of LifeTetractysMaster Mason Tracing Board (30:40)Golden Mean RectangleMaster Mason Working ToolsReversed GeometryOther SymbolismSprig of AcaciaConcluding Remarks (34:12)Links:The Cloud upon the Sanctuary (Eckartshausen - PDF)The History of Magic (Eliphas Levi - PDF)A Philosophical Background for Masonic Symbolism (“Heredom” - W. Kirk MacNulty)Alchemically Stoned - The Psychedelic Secret of Freemasonry (Book by P. D. Newman)Egyptian Numerology: The Pythagorean Triangle and Its Esoteric Meaning (PDF)Esoteric Number Theory pt.1 ~ The Secret Nature of NumbersThe Lodge Room Floor

In this episode, we discuss the 2nd Degree - "Fellowcraft" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)The Tracing Board for the degree is available here:Fellowcraft Tracing BoardOverviewIntroduction (01:13)The Nature of Symbolism (03:39)The Rough and Smooth Ashlars - Revisted (06:06)Supplemental Reading (07:12)The Fellowcraft Tracing Board (09:01)The Archives of the Lodge (10:53)Number Symbolism (13:18)Conclusions (25:10)Related LinksArturo de Hoyos Interview on Audio Version of “Morals and Dogma”Eros and Thanatos: Freud's two fundamental drivesCarl Jung on Numbers (anthology of quotes)Approaching the Middle Chamber (by Jaime Paul Lamb)The Way of the Craftsman (W. Kirk MacNulty)Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol (W. Kirk MacNulty)

In this episode, we discuss the 1st Degree - "Entered Apprentice" from "Morals & Dogma: The Annotated Edition". Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)The Tracing Board for the degree is available here:Entered Apprentice Tracing BoardOverviewMoral LessonsMasonry is not a substitute for religion (p. 77)The Masonic Decalogue (p. 89)The Four Cardinal Virtues - Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, Justice (p. 92)Symbols of the DegreeGavel and RulerThe Point Within a CircleThe Ladder of 7 Rungs - Jacob's LadderSymbols of the LodgeThe Lodge is a TempleThe Pillars Outside the Temple - Boaz & JachinThe Three Columns Supporting the TempleThe Great Lights - Compass, Square & Holy BookThe Lesser Lights - Sun, Moon & Master of the LodgeThe Ornaments of the Lodge - Mosaic Pavement, Indented Tessel, Blazing StarThe Jewels of the LodgeMovable (now called Immovable)SquareLevelPlumbImmovable (now called Movable)Rough AshlarSmooth AshlarTracing Board Related Links:Doric, Ionic and CorinthianCorinthian, Ionic and Doric in Ancient GreeceGreek Architecture: Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian?Masonic Blazing Star (brickmasons.com)The Blazing Star (dallas-freemasonry.com)The Immovable Jewels (themasonictrowel.com)The Mystery of the Mosaic PavementThe History Of The 1st Tracing BoardFirst Degree Tracing Board (Manor of Newland Lodge)Some Thoughts on the History of Tracing Boards

Our first season discusses the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry as described in Albert Pike's "Morals and Dogma: The Annotated Edition".  Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.The "Annotated Edition" that we are using in this series contains annotations by Arturo de Hoyos, Grand Historian and Grand Archivist of the Scottish Rite. It is highly recommended that you read the chapter in order to fully follow our discussion.  "Morals and Dogma" is available from these sites: Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition (to purchase)Morals and Dogma (free but unannotated online PDF)Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma (Audible audiobook for purchase)"Morals and Dogma" is composed of lectures intended to accompany the 32 degrees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry.  This episode provides an introduction to the Blue Lodge of Freemasonry, the Scottish Rite and the author of "Morals and Dogma",  Albert Pike. It also discusses the Introduction section of the book.Way of the Hermit (Twitter)Way of the Hermit (YouTube)Topic Links:Morals & Dogma (Wikipedia)Albert Pike (Wikipedia)Freemasonry (Wikipedia)Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite (Wikipedia)Grand Lodge of TennesseeTennessee Lodge of ResearchSupreme Council of the Scottish Rite - Southern Jurisdiction