There are many sources of information on Freemasonry as well as the History of the Craft. If you looking to have a better understanding of the esoteric and hidden meanings behind the mystical principles within the Craft, we suggest these five books every Brother should read. These titles are widely available at your local library or bookstore. We have included Amazon links as a reference if you are interested in purchasing the titles online. Enjoy!

#1 — Plutarch, ISIS and OSIRIS

Plutarch was a well-known Greek philosopher, Historian, and Priest at the Temple of Apollo as well as an initiate of the mysteries; it is unfortunate that some Egyptologists disdain his works. His writings can interface the divergence pertaining to the Craft for those who have eyes to see.

From Amazon… The Osiris myth is the most elaborate and influential story in ancient Egyptian mythology. It concerns the murder of the god Osiris, a primeval king of Egypt, and its consequences. The myth, with its complex symbolism, is integral to the Egyptian conceptions of kingship and succession, conflict between order and disorder, and especially death and the afterlife. It also expresses the essential character of each of the four deities at its center, and many elements of their worship in ancient Egyptian religion were derived from the myth.

#2 — Apuleius, METAMORPHOSES OR GOLDEN ASS

It is said the works of Apuleius contain mystical anecdotes concerning the consolidation of the Soul and spirit. Some believe that the works of METAMORPHOSES contain the secret rites of the Egyptians. This has comparisons/allusions to masonic allegory, myth, and ritual.

From Amazon… This tale of a man who, when tinkering with magic, becomes changed into an ass is one of the most entertaining and remarkable stories from classic Latin literature. Within this account of these adventures, Apuleius (c124-c170 CE) places ribald stories which are more familiar through retellings by Boccaccio and Chaucer. But there are also passages of considerable literary beauty, particularly in the extended account of Cupid and Psyche.

#3 — THE HERMETICA

Considering there is an interesting parallel between the names of Hermes and Hiram, some believe the Hermetic philosophical writings are imbued in the Masonic tradition. The works of Hermes are the foundation of all esoteric arts. Hermetica provides an intro to Hermetic Philosophy for newly raised Brothers.

From Amazon… The figure of Hermes was venerated as a great and mythical teacher in the ancient world and was rediscovered by the finest minds of the Renaissance. Providing a fascinating introduction to the intersection of the Egyptian and Hellenic cultures and the magico-religious ideas of the antique world, The Hermetica is a marvelous volume for anyone interested in understanding the West’s roots in mystical thought.

#4 — George H. Steinmetz, (THE LOST WORD ITS HIDDEN MEANING

This book is excellent especially for newly raised Brethren to start their Masonic journey. The foreword was written By Manly P Hall.

From Amazon… This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the original. Due to its age, it may contain imperfections such as marks, notations, marginalia, and flawed pages. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment to protecting, preserving, and promoting the world’s literature in affordable, high-quality, modern editions that are true to the original work.

#5 — Robert Hewitt Brown, (STELLAR THEOLOGY & MASONIC ASTRONOMY

This work is a top-choice book to have in your private library. The book describes the origins and symbols within the craft, utilizing zodiacal elements connected to astrology within Masonic ritual. If you have a basic understanding of Astrology, I highly recommend this book.

From Amazon… This volume contains an explanation of Masonic astronomy, symbols, astronomical facts, astronomical explanation and more.