Trestle Board

It is an ancient form of learning, this process of progressive initiation by Degrees. Caves in Greece were used as sites for initiations as were the pyramids in Egypt. Caves were used in ancient Persia, and both mazes and mounds were used by the Druids in England and Ireland. Recently, an initiation labyrinth has been discovered atop one of the highest mountains in Peru, dating from far before the Inca civilization.

Because symbols and allegory form such an important part of the Scottish Rite, a few works of review may be helpful.
General Semanticists (scientists concerned with the ways in which meanings are transmitted) divide behavior into signals, signs and symbols.

If we listen attentively and observe carefully we will discover something elevating and inspiring in the conferral of the degrees of Masonry, something that will enrich our lives. To grasp the great lessons of Masonry, we should always approach the source of learning in a spirit of humility and reverence. What the Ritual said to us when we were initiated in Masonry, it continues to say, and there is always the likelihood that we will receive that which may have escaped our heart and mind in previous conferrals.

The Scottish Rite is based upon Blue Lodge Masonry and in this country it does not confer the first three degrees. This is recognized as the unquestioned prerogative of the Grand Lodge. The Scottish Rite confers the degrees from the fourth to the thirty-third inclusive.

As indicated by our name, the Scottish Rite is a part of the Masonic Fraternity, advancing the principles of Freemasonry through the ritualistic teachings of the 4th thru the 32nd degrees. As Freemasons and as Scottish Rite Masons, we hold the philosophical and practiced principles of brotherhood, equality, religious toleration, political freedom, and charity as important guiding principles in our lives and conduct.