Inhaltsangabe
Excerpt from The Symbolism of Freemasonry
According to the derivation of the word from the Greek, to symbolize signifies to compare one thing with another. Hence a symbol is the expression of an idea that has been de rived from the comparison or contrast of some object with a moral conception or attribute. Thus we say that the plumb is a symbol of rectitude of conduct. The physical qualities of the plumb are here compared or contrasted with the moral conception of virtue, or rectitude. Then to the Speculative Mason it becomes, after he has been taught its symbolic meaning, the visible expression of the idea of moral uprightness. But although there are these two modes of instruction in Free masonry, by legends and by symbols, — there really is no radi cal difference between the two methods. The symbol is a visible, and the legend an audible representation of some contrasted idea of some moral conception produced from a comparison. Both the legend and the symbol relate to dogmas of a deep religious character; both of them convey moral sentiments in the same peculiar method, and both of them are designed by this method to illustrate the philosophy of Speculative Masonry.
Reseña del editor
Albert Mackey was a prolific author about Freemasonry and an American doctor. Mackey's Symbolism of Freemasonry: Its Science, Philosophy, Legends, Myths, and Symbols is one of Mackey's works that has been revised and updated by editor Robert Ingham Clegg.
In the book's preface, Clegg outlines that the only way to fully grasp Freemasonry is through careful study of the legends, myths, and symbols of the organization. The purpose of this book is thus to provide the reader with a detailed exploration of Freemasonry through an examination of its important symbols. The book is composed of thirty-two chapters, each of which examines various legends and myths of Freemasonry. Specific topics discussed include the primitive origins of Freemasonry, the symbolism of Solomon's temple, the rite of discalceation, the legends of Freemasonry, the stone of foundation, and many more. The book concludes with a detailed index, making this text useful as a reference guide.
Mackey's Symbolism of Freemasonry is intended for a Freemasonry neophyte. The book is designed as an introduction to this sometimes mysterious fraternal organization with medieval roots. The author's approach of examining symbols and legends as a means to understanding Freemasonry is an appropriate choice and will serve to greatly expand the reader's knowledge. The prose is easy to follow, making this nearly 400-page collection a relatively simple read.
If you are at all interested in Freemasonry, Mackey's Symbolism of Freemasonry is a great place to start. Informative, illuminating, and entertaining, this book is recommended to all inquisitive minds.
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