Foreword :
Two years ago, Robert Theron Dunn (“Theron”), Bill McElligott and I discussed how to help the American Brethren who set up “Traditional Obedience” lodges, and others who merely desired to improve their esoteric knowledge.
Myself, I am an Italian Freemason, and my lodge runs its business with the AASR ritual. Therefore, there are some differences as far as the ritual is concerned. I add that Italy is, at an esoteric level, the heir of the mysteries practiced in the Mediterranean area years ago, especially in Greece. There is a different mentality involved and different practices. To Masons who don’t practice within Italy, some of our rituals can appear quite weird, if they are unexplained and not understood.
Our lodge involves our new members in an educational process from the start. We provide new members with a booklet containing various informative articles. These articles cover both the general aspects of Freemasonry and the most common symbols which man finds in our Temple.
Based on what I shared about our provided materials, Theron proposed we should to do the same for the benefit of the English speaking Masonic world. We all agreed and I rolled up my sleeves and began writing from the Italian Masonic viewpoint. At the same time, I asked some American and Australian Brethren to deliver their articles on the specific aspects of their ritual. Let me underline that they all complied with my request with much enthusiasm, competence and Brotherly love.
This booklet before you is an attempt to explain various Masonic symbols in esoteric terms. As far as it is possible, the authors have avoided any “moral” interpretation. Esotericism is not a doctrine; it is a method, which leads men to look deeper into themselves, firstly, then after to the surrounding environment and eventually to the divine. By so doing, they come to realize that they are part of the whole. In addition, they also come to understand the reason for which ancient alchemists used to say “As above, so below.”
Initiates deepen their esoteric knowledge by rites and symbols: when man deals with the Transcendent, words are never adequate. On this purpose, Dante perspicuously wrote, “Passing beyond the human cannot be worded”.
Unexpectedly, Theron passed away on the 13th of May in 2008. My friend and Brother who urged me to fulfill this task and encouraging me to go beyond any difficulties, is no more with us in person. He is still part of our “chain” in another form, though.
Theron, my Brother, go on helping us through your spiritual assistance; I dedicate this work to your beloved memory, which time will never erase. Vivat!
Giovanni Lombardo
All the money from this book after production costs will be donated to Charity in the US, the UK and Italy.
Lifting the Veil - Esoteric Masonic Thought
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