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RECOMMENDED READINGS


One of the great duties of Lodges (and the Masons in those Lodges) is to provide sound Masonic education to newly made Masons. 

Essentially, there is no 'reading list' for Freemasons. Over the years, a few individuals and/or organizations have cobbled together a list of things that they feel are valuable but such lists are the exclusive work of the individual and often greatly reflect their particular field of interest or fascination. No such list should ever be considered as required and, regrettably, there are those Masons who do not take seriously the admonition that they should make a daily advancement in their education.  Below is a list of books that I have seen and I have tried to compile them accordingly.

If you see a book you want to order, click on the title, but to do so you must be connected to the Internet.

You can purchase many of these books by searching the following booksellers' and auction websites:

Amazon Amazon UK Barnes & Noble Borders
Chapters eBay Kessinger Publishing Powell's

BEGINNERS

Below is a list of highly recommended books designed with the new Mason in mind and teaching the basics of Masonry.

A Dictionary of Freemasonry by Robert Macoy / Hardcover
Here is a remarkable history, encyclopedia and symbolic dictionary of Freemasonry all in one convenient volume and attractively illustrated with 300 nineteenth-century engravings. From Aaron, the Abelites, and the All-Seeing Eye to the Year of Masonry, Zenith, and the Rite of Zinnendorf, this is a remarkable book on a subject that runs through the course of human history. $12.99

A Pilgrim's Path: Freemasonry and the Religious Right by John J. Robinson / Hardcover
The author of Born in Blood: The Lost Secrets of Freemasonry describes the history and principles of the world's largest secret society, and then takes on those who have condemned it, refuting their fabrications and misstatements. An eye-opening book for those interested in the mysteries of Freemasonry--and disturbed by the rise of the Fundamentalist Right. $19.95

Craft and Its Symbols by Allen Roberts / Hardcover
This book has become a runaway Masonic best seller. It covers the symbolism and the story behind the ritual of the Craft degrees. Southern California Research Lodge, and many others presents it to Entered Apprentices. It is a presentation volume and takes the initiate through the ceremonies of initiation to the meaning of the Master Mason degree. It's MUST reading. It explains the meanings of the initiation ceremonies the newly raised Master Mason has just gone through. The wife of a master mason will gain an understanding of the new avenues opening for a better and fuller life for the entire family. If you are a non-Mason who has heard about Freemasonry, but wants to know more about the Fraternity and its teachings before you petition, this book is must reading. Bound to resemble a Lambskin Apron. $12.50

Selected Masonic Writings by Joseph Fort Newton; Robert Freke Gould; Theodore Roosevelt; J.C. Penny & others / Paperback
These collected writings from very rare & out of print early editions of "The New Age" magazine contain priceless essays from the powerful pens of Robert Freke Gould; Joseph Fort Newton; Oswald Wirth; Theodore Roosevelt; Ray Baker Harris; Charles Lobingier; William Boyden & J.C. Penny. It is a treasure of Masonic literature which is sure to please anyone interested in Masonry. $4.95

Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia by Henry Wilson Coil, Allen E. Roberts, ed. / Hardcover
Henry Wilson Coil's "Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia" is the most up to date of Masonic Encyclopedias. This second edition, edited in 1996 by the late Allen Roberts, it is a treasure trove of important Masonic information and features over 1750 articles. No serious Masonic student should be without this book. $69.50

The History of Freemasonry: The Legendary Origins by Albert G. Mackey / Hardcover
An in-depth study of one of the world's most controversial and select organizations traces the history of Freemasonry, profiles some of its leading members; and discusses its rituals and tenets. Beautifully bound with gold trim. A true coffee table book. $19.99

The Lost Keys of Freemasonry by Manly P. Hall, J. Augustus Knapp (Illustrator) / Paperback
Also known as The Secret of Hiram Abiff, this text was written for the Mason and non-Mason alike. Mr. Hall, himself an honorary 33 Mason, reveals the profounder aspects of this ancient Fraternity which has been a source of inspiration to so many individuals through the centuries. The basic symbolism of the three degrees of the Blue Lodge is explained and a chapter entitled "The Egyptian Initiate" is especially enlightening. Illustrated by J. Augustus Knapp. $12.95

Masonic trivia (and facts) by Allen E. Roberts / Hardcover
Within Masonic Trivia (and Facts) is more information than will be found between two covers, with the exception of an encyclopedia. The more than 600 questions and answers covers the story of Freemasonry from its earliest days to the present. Here the reader will meet many world leaders, men who worked an pleaded for men and women to support and love one another. From Aberdeen to the Ziegfeld Follies the answers to hundreds of questions will be found. The "mysteries" of the oldest fraternal organization in the world are uncovered many of them for the first time. Here the reader will find there are actually no secrets in Freemasonry. The comprehensive index will make it easy to find any subject or person quickly. $18.95

The Boy Who Cried Wolf: The Book That Breaks Masonic Silence by Richard P. Thorn / Hardcover
As the religious right spreads its influence throughout the U.S., it is inevitable that some of its more provocative speakers should tread on the toes of other groups, both religious and nonreligious. In Thorn's case, the fundamentalists have met their match. Thorn attacks the critics of Masonry, showing where they err in their assumptions and providing some good insights into the nature of the Masons' "secret" society. He also draws on his own fundamentalist background to explain the theology behind the fundamentalist statements. Thorn acknowledges that he may not change anyone's mind, but he feels that Masonry stands at a crucial point and that its future may depend on how it meets the fundamentalist attack. This book is recommended for those interested in the influence and place of religion in the world. $18.95

A New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry /2 Vols in 1 by Arthur Edward Waite / Hardcover
Waite provides his view of the history, literature, and myths surrounding Freemasonry. Comprehensive explanations are included of their secret rituals and symbolism, such as alchemy, astrology, Kabbalism, ceremonial magic, and animal magnetism. $14.99

Black Square and Compass: 200 Years of Prince Hall Freemasonry by Joseph A. Walkes, Jr. / Hardcover
Joseph A. Walkes, Jr.'s "Black Square and Compass" is a well-written and highly valuable work on Prince Hall Masonry. Included are many rare reproductions of valuable Masonic documents and a wealth of well researched and clearly presented information. A highly recommended book. $16.95

The Builders: A Story and Study of Freemasonry by Joseph F. Newton / Hardcover
An outstanding classic in Masonic literature offering the early history of Freemasonry and an exposition of the faith of Masonry. $21.95

The Grand Design by Wallace McLeod / Hardcover
A wealth of knowledge is imparted in this collection of addresses and articles by a master storyteller. They range from the days of scrolls to this computer age. "This is a book that had to be published," wrote Allen E. Roberts in his Foreword. "It brings to life a philosophy that can be found nowhere else." It also brings under one cover invaluable information that should be preserved for the ages. It includes three "how to" chapters: for writers and for researchers. It then tells the reader how to expand on the discoveries of the author. McLeod is well aware that research is a never ending mission. Within these pages one finds an excellent record of the Old Charges, the documents on which the teachings of Freemasonry are based. It will be difficult, if not impossible, to find a more complete account of these tomes from the distant past. Hard Cover $19.95

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 ADVANCE

For those Masons with a deeper interest in the history and/or philosophy of Masonry, the following Masonic books are offered to inspire and further guide you on your path of Masonic education.

The Secret Teachings of All Ages by Manly P. Hall, J. Augustus Knapp (Illustrator) / Hardcover / Published 1999
Simply put, this is the most beautiful and complete occult book ever published. It represents a lifetime of research into the mythology, symbolism, and magical practices of countless cultures. From the secrets of Isis to the teachings of mystic Christianity, nearly every occult dogma imaginable is represented here. The book is full of giant illustrations, some of which fold out into a magnificent two-page splendor. This is the definitive guide to secret societies, famous figures, and more a must for every personal library. $189.95

Prince Hall: Social Reformer by Arthur Diamond, Nathan I. Huggins (Editor) / Library Binding
A summary of the life and career of the Afro-American social reformer.$19.95

The Origins of Freemasonry: Scotland's Century, 1590-1710 by David Stevenson / Paperback
The question of Freemasonry's origins and history prior to the establishment of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717 is such a morass of speculation, supposition, and wishful thinking that professional historians - Stevenson included - feel the need to justify their researches in this subject lest they be tainted by its disrepute among their fellows. Against such a background this book really stands out. Stevenson bases his research on actual records of almost a hundred Scottish Masonic lodges that date from the 1600's, along with municipal records, other guilds' records, diaries, and royal statutes. $22.95

Ancient Mystic Rites by Charles Webster Leadbeater / Paperback
Explores the ancient Egyptian influence upon modern Freemasony. Discusses the history of the A.A.S.R. and it's predecessor, the Rite of Perfection. $14.00

Revolutionary Brotherhood: Freemasonry and the Transformation of the American Social Order, 1730-1840 by Steven C. Bullock / Hardback
Steven Bullocks traces Freemasonry through its first century in America. He follows the order from its origins in Britain and its introduction into North America in the 1730s to its near-destruction by a massive anti-Masonic movement almost a century later and its subsequent reconfiguration into the brotherhood we know today. $49.95

Freemasonry in the 21st Century by Don Bradley, Linda Darger (Illustrator) / Paperback
An in-depth study of the authors interpretations of practices and rituals necessary to advance through the first three Initiations of Freemasonry. Not a historical piece, but an interesting blow-by-blow of how the rituals are structured and their effects upon the inner bodies of the candidate. $14.95

The Concise History of Freemasonry by Robert F. Gould / Paperback
Contents: Ancient Mysteries, Essenes, Roman Colleges, Culders, Vehm-Gerichte, Steinmetzen, French Corps D Etat, Companionage, Rosicrucians; Medieval Operative Masonry; English Laws of the Middle Ages & the Freemasons; Story of the Guild; Legend of the Craft; Early Scottish Craft; Great Division in English Masonry; Concise Notice of the Additional Degrees Usually Worked; Freemasonry in Europe; Asia, East India Islands, Far East, Africa, West Indies, Central & South America; USA, Canada & Australaisa. $24.95

Encyclopedia of Freemasonry by Albert G. Mackey / Paperback
This book is so absorbing you could sit and read it from cover to cover. It also serves as a handy reference guide for most any Masonic question that may arise. $75.00

Freemasonry in American History by Allen E. Roberts / Hardback
Allen Roberts has taken the history of Freemasonry and the history of the United States and woven them tightly together. He hasn't fallen into any of the traps which so many inexperienced Masonic historians do, such as trying to make our Fraternity the prime mover of all that is good in our country. He has worked the history of Freemasonry into the actual history of the United States. This book is not a history, written by a historian for other historians. It is an easily readable book about Freemasonry, written by a Freemason for the benefit of other Freemasons. This book is valuable to the Masonic student and will become more valuable in the years to come. It is valuable to the general reader and to the newly made mason who wishes to receive more light about the Order to which he belongs. $29.50

Mackeys Jurisprudence of Freemasonry by Albert G. Mackey / Hardcover
An excellent quick reference source of the written and unwritten laws, rules and regulations of Freemasonry. Especially important for its treatment of landmarks and Ancient Constitutions. Covers the Law for Lodges, for Candidates, for Individuals and for Grand Lodges. $16.50

House Undivided: The Story of Freemasonry & the Civil War by Allen E. Roberts / Hardcover
Learn a unique historical account of Freemasonry during the 1860's and its impact on the Civil War. $22.95

Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol by W. Kirk MacNutly / Paperback
The historical illustrations of Masonic tracing boards are a rare find, and the incorporation of Jungian psychological principles into an explanation of the Blue Lodge degrees made quite fascinating reading. 133 illustrations. $16.95

Some Deeper Aspects Of Masonic Symbolism by Stephen Dafoe, Arthur Edward Waite (Editor) / Paperback
Long out of print, Arthur Edward Waite's "Some Deeper Aspects of Masonic Symbolism" is a must read for those Freemasons interested in a better understanding of the Masonic degrees that make up the Craft Lodge of Masonry. Waite covers such topics as, the meaning of initiation, the Third Degree, the Christian Mysteries, Operative Masonry, The Old Charges and a host of other topics. Also included in this small volume is "An Appreciation of Arthur Edward Waite" by Joseph Fort Newton and an afterward by Stephen Dafoe on the importance of Pythagorean Symbolism in Masonry unique to this volume. Templar Books is pleased to bring this lecture by the late Arthur Edward Waite to the Masonic Fraternity once again. $5.95

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OTHER BOOKS

The Trial of the Templars by Malcolm Barber / Paperback
A detailed account of the ordeal of the French Templars--arrested, tried and executed from 1307-1314 for heretical crimes during the Inquisition. Although their confessions were extracted under torture, a number of the brothers survived to defend their Order until 1314. $13.95

The Hiram Key by Christopher Knight, Robert Lomas (Contributor) / Hardcover
Using analyses of ancient Egyptian records, the Old and New Testaments, early Christian and Rabbinical texts, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the rituals of Freemasonry, Knight and Lomas have assembled a startling and controversial book which shows the original Jerusalem Church to be a political device for establishing control, and the Bible to be far from literal truth. 16 plates. $24.95

The Lost Treasure of the Knights Templar by Steven Sora / Paperback / Published 1999
Fascinating occult detective work linking the Cathars, the Scottish Masons, and Renne-le-Chateau to the elusive treasure pit on Oak Island. Draws on new evidence recently unearthed in Italy, France, and Scotland to provide a compelling solution to one of the world's most enduring mysteries. $16.95

The Second Messiah by Christopher Knight, Robert Lomas / Paperback
One hundred years ago, an amateur was allowed to photograph the Shroud of Turin. The negatives he produced of that famous image captivated the Christian world and strengthened their belief that it carried the imprint of Christ's face and body. In The Second Messiah, authors Knight and Lomas, who are Freemasons, build a meticulous case against this theory. $16.95

The Temple and the Lodge by Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh (Contributor) / Paperback
From the authors of the bestseller, Holy Blood, Holy Grail, comes a new book on the origins of Freemasonry. Its mysterious beginnings in the fourteenth century through currents of thought and political upheavals surrounding it in seventeenth-and eighteenth-century Europe are charted. "Compelling...sane and informed...Written with gripping academic-detective style."--TorontoStar. 36 black-and-white photographs. $13.95

The Dead Sea Scrolls Deception by Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh (Contributor) / Paperback
Through a careful study of the scrolls, historical analysis,and interviews with scholars, the authors establish a view of Christianity that challenges the Church's adamantly defended "facts." $14.00

Dungeon Fire and Sword by John J. Robinson / Hardcover
Robinson's fascination with the military monastic order organized by a band of knights in the aftermath of the First Crusade and originally dedicated to the protection of pilgrims in the Holy Land continues. Here, he sets out to recount the Knights' role as trained warriors and, eventually, as international bankers during the nearly 200 years from Pope Urban II's call for the First Crusade in 1095 through the last Crusaders' abandonment of the Holy Land in 1291. $23.96

The History of the Knights Templars by Charles G. Addison, David Hatcher Childress (Introduction) / Paperback
This book is full of history of the Order of the Knights Templar. Addison goes into some deep history of the Templars and the times they lived in right up to the supression of the order. He also sets up a basis for the belief that the Templars did not all 'go away' after their supression but lived on in countries where Phillip and Pope Clement V could not touch them. This book is great to start on your journey to find the truth about this order of Knights. $16.95

Born in Blood by John J. Robinson / Hardcover
This is a very popular historical fantasy book which weaves a wonderful story involving the Knights Templar, Freemasons and the Catholic Church. A highly entertaining work perfect for those quite evening when an exciting book is valued reward. Don't get caught up in expecting an accurate account of history and you will thoroughly enjoy this work. $22.46

Emblematic Freemasonry, by Arthur E. Waite. Mr. Waite is the author of many books on mysticism as well as Freemasonry. He gives a sometimes unique view as to the origins of Freemasonry and its symbology.

Magnum Opus: Or the Great Work: The Complete Ritual Work of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, by Albert Pike.

Morals and Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, by Albert Pike.

A New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry: Their Rights, Literature, and History, by Arthur Edward Waite. Mr. Waite is the author of many books on mysticism as well as Freemasonry. He gives a sometimes unique view as to the origins of Freemasonry and its symbology.

Twice Told Tales: A Masonic Reader, by L. Helms. Although many of the conclusions reached by this author are based solely on Masonic sources such as Mackey and Coil, this is a great book for the Lodge Education Officer. Many of the myths that have grown up around Freemasonry are explored. The chapters are short, informative, and to the point.

A Comprehensive View of Freemasonry, Henry Wilson Coil, 1973

Freemasonry: A Celebration of the Craft, John Hamill and R. A. Gilbert (ed.), 1992

Freemasonry Through Six Centuries, Henry Wilson Coil, 1966

Freemasons' Guide and Compendium, Bernard E. Jones, 1950, 1956

Masonic Membership of the Founding Fathers, Ronald E. Heaton, 1965

Masonic World Guide, Kent Henderson, 1984

Miracle at Philadelphia, Catherine Drinker Bowen, 1966

Key to Freemasonry's Growth, Allen E. Roberts, 1969

The Clergy and the Craft, Forrest D. Haggard, 1970

The Early Masonic Catechisms, Douglas Knoop, G. P. Jones, & Douglas Hamer, 1953, 1963

The Freemason at Work, Harry Carr, 1976

The Master's Book, Carl H. Claudy, 1935

The Mystic Tie, Allen E. Roberts, 1991

The Pocket History of Freemasonry, Fred L. Pick & G. Norman Knight, 1953

The Rise and Development of Organized Freemasonry, Roy A. Wells, 1986

Tied to Masonic Apron Strings, Stewart M. L. Pollard, 1969

William Preston and His Work, Colin Dyer, 1987

Whither Are We Traveling?, Dwight L. Smith, 1962

Workman Unashamed, Christopher Haffner, 1989

World Freemasonry: An Illustrated History, John Hamill & R. A. Gilbert, 1991

10,000 Famous Freemasons, William R. Denslow, 1957

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The following list of books also provides a basis for the study of Freemasonry. Sorry no links. You may find them through Amazon.com

Introduction to Freemasonry by Harry L. Haywood
Pocket-sized, less than 80 pages, easy reading, but will answer many of your questions about the origin and purpose of Masonry; the three degrees, the Side Orders, world Masonry.

Introduction to Freemasonry by Carl Claudy
Answers to the simple elementary inquires of the new brother to whom all of Masonry is strange. Examines each of the three degrees in detail.

The Newly-Made Mason by Harry L. Haywood
What he and every Mason should know about Masonry. Readable, concise, comprehensive. Covers briefly but adequately the origin, history, philosophy, symbolism, organization and operation of the Masonic Order.

Masonic Symbolism

Masonic Symbolism by Charles Clyde Hunt
Fifty-nine informative studies and interpretations of many Masonic symbols. Simple and readable, dependable, thorough, sound in interpretation, inspiring.

What Does Freemasonry Teach?

A Modern Mason Examines His Craft by L. C. Helms
Balancing the facts and fiction that seem to surround Freemasonry. A short book designed to clarify and make salient aspects of the Craft more easily understood.

The Great Teachings of Masonry by Harry L. Haywood
What is it all about? What is it trying to do? How did it come to be? What are its central and permanent teachings?

Freemasonry: Its Hidden Meaning by George H. Steinmetz
The lectures and symbols are carefully and systematically examined so that the reader can really understand them.

A Little About the Ritual

Six Hundred Years of Craft Ritual by Harry Carr
The development of our Masonic Ritual. Impressive documentation, absorbing style.

A Commentary on the Freemasonic Ritual by E. H. Cartwright
Like the above, this is from England. Harry Carr said of this one: "No one has written anything better in this particular field".

Some Famous Masons

Famous Masons and Masonic Presidents by Harry L. Haywood
Interesting reading on this fascinating subject.

Brother Truman by Allen Roberts
A carefully researched book into the character and moral fiber of Harry S. Truman, President and Freemason.

George Washington: Master Mason by Allen Roberts
Of the many books written about George Washington, this is one of the few which approaches the man from a human interest standpoint.

Freemasonry in History

A Comprehensive View of Freemasonry by Henry W. Coil
A brief but comprehensive view of Freemasonry from the earliest historical record to the present day.

What is Freemasonry

Is It True What They Say About Freemasonry? by Art de Hoyos and S. Brent Morris
A historical and critical look at the arguments and tactics of anti-Masons.

OTHER BOOKS

An Illustrated Guidebook to Rosslyn Chapel by Tim Wallace-Murphy

Ancient Freemasonry by Frank C. Higgins

Art of Memory by Frances Yates

Bloodline of the Holy Grail by Laurence Gardiner

Born in Blood by John J. Robinson

Building Paradise: The Freemason and Rosicrucian Six Days Work by Peter Dawkins

Coil's Masonic Encyclopedia  by Henry Coil

Craft and its Symbols by Allen E. Roberts

Dictionary of Freemasonry by  Robert W. Macoy

Early Masonic Pamphlets by Early Masonic Pamphlets

Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol by W. Kirk MacNulty

Freemasonry and its Ancient Mystic Rites by Charles W. Leadbeater

Freemasonry and the Ancient Gods by JSM Ward

Freemasonry of the Ancient Egyptians by Manly P. Hall

Freemasonry Thru Six Centuries by Henry Coil

Freemasonry: Its Hidden Meaning by George Steinmetz

Freemasons Guide and Compendium by Bernard Jones

Holy Blood. Holy Grail by Michael Baigent & Richard Leigh & Henry Lincoln

Light on Masonry by David Bernard

Mackey's Encyclopedia of Freemasonry by Albert G. Mackey

New Encyclopedia of Freemasonry by A.E. Waite

Origins of Freemasonry: Scotland's Century by David Stevenson

Revolutionary Brotherhood by Steven C. Bullock

Rosicrucian Enlightenment by Frances Yates

Rosslyn by Tim Wallace-Murphy and Marilyn Hopkins

Rosslyn - History of the Guilds, The Masons and the Rosy Cross by Robert Brydon

Royal Arch: Its Hidden Meaning by George Steinmetz

Royal Masonic Encyclopedia by James Mackenzie

Secret Chamber by Robert Bauval

Signs and Symbols of Freemasonry by A. E. Waite

Spirit of Freemasonry by Foster Bailey

Symbolism in Craft Freemasonry by Colin Dyer

The Collected Prestonian Lectures by Quatuor Coronati

The Early History and Antiquities of Freemasonry by George F. Fort

The Higher Degrees in Freemasonry by JSM Ward

The Hiram Key by Christopher Knight & Robert Lomas

The History of the Knights Templar by Charles G. Addison

The Knights of Malta by Joseph Attard

The Lodge and the Craft by Rollin C. Blackmer

The Lost Keys of Freemasonry by Manly P. Hal

The Lost Language of Symbolism by Harold Bailey

The Lost Treasure of the Knights Templar by Steven Sora

The Templar Legacy and Masonic Inheritance within Rosslyn Chapel by Tim Wallace-Murphy

The Templar Revelation by Picknett and Prince

The Templar's Secret Island by Henry Lincoln & Erling Haagensen

The Temple and the Lodge by Michael Baigent & Richard Leigh

The Temple Legend by Rudolph Steiner

The Way of the Craftsmen by W. Kirk MacNulty

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Last modified: March 22, 2014