Book Description

This edition unites the Masonic Constitution together with other regulations, plus a selection of Freemason songs traditionally sung in the Lodges. A fascinating account of the Freemason traditions, and a crucial source document for founders of the Masonic Lodges, this book offers insight into both the historic and social qualities of Freemasonry. We discover how the organization's hierarchy is arranged, how it advances principles such as mutual aid between Masons times of crisis or hardship, and how relevant subjects of Art and Architecture are ripe for discussion. Rules of rank, conduct, congregation and ceremony are sequentially laid out in the book's second portion: the General Regulations. We learn how one Lodge is to associate with another, how periodic communications are to be issued to Masons, how a Lodge's finances are to be organized, and how the Wardens oversee the group's affairs. Rules protecting against the abuse of the society, and rules of succession in the event of a Grand-Master's death or incapacity, are also given. The concluding portion of this book contains a selection of songs. These are intended to be sung by Freemasons in celebration; generally, they praise aspects of architecture and design employing sound geometry, while the singers congratulate one another and celebrate the convivial aspects of fraternity. First composed in the 1720s, we see in this book an authentic and detailed account of Freemasonry in its early years.