About

What is the Scottish Rite

The Ancient & Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, commonly known as the Scottish Rite, is one of several groups that are part of the worldwide fraternity known as Freemasonry. The Scottish Rite is the largest and most widely practiced Masonic Rite in the world and employs a lodge system.

While there is no Masonic degree more important than that of Master Mason, there is a long tradition—almost as old as Freemasonry—of “high degrees” that expand upon and elaborate the teachings and lessons of the first three degrees. The Scottish Rite degrees teach a series of moral lessons culminating in the 32°, Master of the Royal Secret.

Education

The Scottish Rite continues a Master Mason’s education in many ways.

  • 4°-32° Degree work
  • Speakers at meetings
  • Leadership conferences
  • Scottish Rite Journal
  • Publishing Masonic books
  • Scottish Rite Research Society

Do I have to be Scottish to join the Scottish Rite

No. The Scottish Rite degrees actually originated in France and were based on legends that came from Scotland, so “Scottish” is in name only.

The Fourteenth and Thirty third Degree Rings What is their significance?

Scottish Rite rings, formally presented as part of the 14° and 33° ceremonies, symbolize the close alliance between the member and the Fraternity and the solemn covenants we have made with each other to the performance of specific duties.

14° Ring
This ring is gold, and bears the Hebrew letter yod enclosed in a triangle. The letter is the initial of the lost Masters’ Word and is a reminder of the legend and lessons of the 13° Royal Arch and 14° Perfect Elu. Inscribed on the inner band is the motto Virtus junxit mors non separabit (Virtue has united and death shall not separate). It may also be inscribed with the owner’s name
and date he received the degree.

33° Ring
This ring is a triple band of gold which may bear the numerals 33 in a triangle, although not necessarily. On the inside band is engraved the motto Deus meumque jus (God and my right), as well as the owner’s name and the date he received the Thirty-third Degree.