High Masonic degrees
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In Freemasonry, the first three Masonic degrees constitute the fundamental degrees in all Rites they are called Blue Lodge of Craft degree.
Over time, various systems of optional "high Masonic degrees" or "Side Degree" have been added to these three fundamental degrees, practiced in workshops known as perfection lodges or chapters.
Early Origins (Pre-1717)
The earliest documented form of Freemasonry emerged from the operative masonic guilds of medieval Europe. During this period, it is mostly admitted that the craft maintained a simple two-degree system that directly reflected the practical organization of stonemason's work.[1] Although some traditions such as the Operative Masons, maintain that the craft contained seven degrees before it was reduced to two.[2][3][4] Some tradition maintain that the third degree legend was part of the second degree, while some other claim that it was a mystery played during feasts.[5]
- Apprentice, Entered Apprentice or Apprentices to the Craft of Free Mason (first degree): This initial degree represented the beginning of a mason's journey, typically lasting seven years. Apprentices learned fundamental craft skills and basic moral teachings.[6]
That no Master or fellow shall take any apprentice as his apprentice unless for seven years, and that apprentice be able of birth and of living as he ought to be." – The William Watson Manuscript
— William Watson, The William Watson Manuscript 1535
- Fellows of the Craft of Free Mason or Companion(second degree): Upon completing their apprenticeship, masons could advance to this level, indicating full membership in the craft guild.
Archaeological evidence from early lodge minutes, particularly from Scottish lodges, shows that this two-degree system was well-established by the late 16th century.[8]
Transformation to Speculative Masonry (1717–1725)
The formation of the first Grand Lodge in London in 1717 marked a crucial transition period in Masonic history. During this time, the craft greatly shifted from operative to speculative Masonry, (this shift had started in the late 1500s) focusing more on moral, esoteric and philosophical teachings rather than practical stonework.[9]
Introduction of the Third Degree
Although still heavily debated, the modern consensus claims that The Master Mason degree was cemented around 1725 in London,[10] marking a significant evolution in Masonic ritual and symbolism, this legend was in direct competition with another "Noachite" legend.[11] Other Scholar claim that the legend existed far before this date as it is hinted at in earlier rituals. This development:[12][13]
- Established the three-degree system that would become fundamental to all Masonic Rites
- Created a more complex symbolic structure for Masonic teaching
Proliferation of Higher Degrees (1730–1760)
The period between 1730 and 1760 saw an unprecedented expansion in Masonic degrees, particularly in France and continental Europe.[14]
Cultural Influences
Several factors contributed to this proliferation:
- Enlightenment Philosophy
- Interest in esoteric knowledge and ancient mysteries
- Emphasis on rational inquiry and systematic learning
- Integration of Hermetic and Kabbalistic traditions
- Political Context
- Rise of enlightened absolutism
- Social upheavals in pre-revolutionary France
- Growing influence of nobility in Masonic lodges
- Religious Developments
- Tensions between traditional Christianity and new philosophical ideas
- Integration of mystical and esoteric Christian traditions
- Influence of Rosicrucianism and other esoteric movements[15]
Major Centers of Development
| Location | Notable contributions | Key figures |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | Development of Scottish Master degree | Chevalier Ramsay |
| Lyon | Strict Observance system | Jean-Baptiste Willermoz |
| Bordeaux | Perfection Rite | Stephen Morin |
| London | Royal Arch developments | Laurence Dermott |
Systematization Period (1760–1800)
By the 1760s, over one hundred distinct Masonic degrees had been created.[16] This proliferation led to efforts to systematize and organize these degrees into coherent systems.
Major Developments
- 1761 – Creation of the Rite of Perfection (25 degrees)
- 1771 – Establishment of the Strict Observance system
- 1786 – Codification of the French Rite
- 1801 – Formation of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (33 degrees)
Notable Systems
French Rite The French Rite is one of the oldest systems in existence and was systematized in 1786 and solidified with the creation of the "Manuscrit de Moûtiers" of 1787 and later the publication of the Régulateur du Maçon in 1801, establishing a three degrees plus 4 orders system:[17]
Blue Lodge
- 1st Degree: Entered Apprentice
- 2nd Degree: Fellow Craft
- 3rd Degree: Master Mason
Orders of Wisdom
- 1st Order: Élu (Elect)/ Master Elect
- 2dn Order: Ecossais / Grand Élu (Grand Elect)
- 3rd Order: Chevalier d'Orient / Knight of Masonry
- 4th Order: Rose-Croix / Perfect Sovereign Mason
Conservatory
- 5th Order: Grand Conservatory / Additional administrative order
Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Developed through several stages:
- Initial formation in Charleston, South Carolina (1801)
- Expansion to France (1804)
- Global spread throughout the 19th century
Modern Period (1800–Present)
The 19th and 20th centuries saw:
- Standardization of ritual practices
- Development of research lodges
- Creation of governing bodies for higher degrees
- Revival of interest in esoteric aspects of higher degrees[18]
Contemporary Organization
Modern Masonic degrees are typically organized under different governing bodies:
- Blue/Craft Lodges (first three degrees) under Grand Lodges
- Scottish Rite bodies under Supreme Councils
- York Rite bodies under state/national organizations
- Independent orders maintaining their own degree systems
