Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol (Art & Imagination) [Paperback]

W. Kirk MacNulty (Author)

Book Description

Series: Art & Imagination | Publication Date: September 1991

This title explores the origins, development, rituals, and symbolism of Freemasonry, and examines Freemasonry as part of a tradition of Western mysticism going back to the Middle Ages.

Product Details

• Paperback: 96 pages
• Publisher: Thames & Hudson (September 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0500810370
• ISBN-13: 978-0500810378
• Product Dimensions: 11 x 8 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (26 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #205,583 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #62 in Books > Religion & Spirituality > Other Practices > Freemasonry

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

53 of 57 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Pictures, Trestle Boards and "Tools of the trade", July 27, 2000

By 

Frater V "The Truth is Absolutely Not Absolut... (Louisville, KY) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol (Art & Imagination) (Paperback)

If you are a Freemason, or are even remotely interested in the subject, you should own this book....if, for no other reason than the fact that this book contains many, many full-color, full-page pictures & other graphics, such as Craft Symbolism, the "Tools" of the Craft, Trestle Boards, etc. This book also contains an overview of Freemasonry, including some of the esoteric aspects of The Craft--even mentioning the Hermetic axiom: "As Above, So Below." I honestly believe all Masons should own books like this--esp., since so many still believe in the outdated concept of not talking about Masonry....even to their own sons and daughters...or, Wives. Leave this book lying around your den or on the coffee table. I keep my copy on the top shelf of my Masonic Research Bookshelf, beside "Duncans Ritual" (collectors edition), The Holy Bible and my Masonic antique items. It really sets-off my little shrine to Masonry! This book has more pictures than you can shake a level at....so, stop twirling your compass and get out your credit card!

34 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best explanation of the higher meaning behind the ritual, June 16, 2002

By 

OAKSHAMAN "oakshaman" (Algoma, WI United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)   

This review is from: Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol (Art & Imagination) (Paperback)

If you read this book you will have more understanding of the original MEANING of Freemasonry and Masonic ritual than 90% of actual modern Freemasons.

It is well explained in this short, well written, and beautifully illustrated book what all the symbolism of the First, Second, and Third degrees were actually intended to mean. This is because the author is as well versed in the mystery religions and sacred architecture of classical times as were the founders of the Craft. Indeed you come to realise that there is a comprehensive and satisfying overview of universal spiritual wisdom in these rituals, of the self, soul, and spirit (the three Principle Officers.) This is not trivial stuff. Indeed, it is pointed out that the ultimate goal of the Third Degree is to actually die to one's self and be reborn. This was also the end goal of the old Mystery Religions- and of any spiritual path worthy of the name.

There are no "secrets" revealed here. The only secrets are those found in your own soul after deep introspection. But these rituals do point the way, and this booklet does prepare your mind on the proper path.

If you would contemplate profound, mind-expanding truths that will move you closer to the universal architect and his creation, then this is your book. If you are primarily interested in fancy rings, funny hats, and go-carts, then perhaps you should look elsewhere.

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Great Symbolism, July 18, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol (Art & Imagination) (Paperback)

This book contains 133 illustrations and 17 of them are in colour. This is not so much a book about Freemasonry as a book about the sybolism in Freemasonry. This is a wonderful book to have, if your interest is in symbolism. The pictures alone make the book worth purchasing.