With hundreds of years of Masonic history documented and recorded by Brethren long gone (and sadly forgotten), your average Masonic reader is spoilt for choice when it comes to Masonic literature.
In this article, I will be sharing with you 17 must-read books for Freemasons which have been suggested by Masons who were asked this question on various Masonic Groups.
If you’re a fan of Masonic literature and books about Freemasonry in general, and you’d like to add a few more reads to your list, check out the following 17 classic works from some of the best Masonic authors.
Most of the must-read books mentioned below can be found in this collection as well.
The Principles of Masonic Law
Written by Albert Mackey and first published in 1856. The book is generally an essay of the laws, usages, and landmarks of Freemasonry.
It examines the essential principles of the brotherhood and their application in the fraternity.
Morals & Dogma of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
It is popularly known as Morals and Dogma. The book was initially written by Albert Pike back in 1871. Over the years, It has been reprinted severally with the last official copy released in 2011.
The book contains a compilation of 32 essays that offer insight to the degrees of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite.
The Symbolism Of Freemasonry
Initially written by Albert Mackey in 1882. The literature describes and explains the science, philosophical doctrine, legends, myths, and symbols associated with the order.
The contents are based on traditions and narratives created around Freemasonry. It interprets the activities of the order, and the message conveyed behind Masonic ways.
The Meaning of Masonry
It was first published in 1922 by Walter L. Wilmhurst. The book is based on a lengthy argument on the different views on the order.
It aims at providing a detailed understanding of the brotherhood. It explores Freemasonry as a philosophy, science, its craft symbolism, among other things.
The Lost Keys of Freemasonry
First published in 1923 by Manly P. Hall. It was written by a high ranking official shedding light into the secret Society.
The book talks about the training masons undergo, ways followed by new initiates in the order, and the character a true Masonic member must cultivate within himself.
The Craft and Its Symbols: Opening the Door to Masonic Symbolism
First published in 1974 and written by Allen E. Roberts. The book examines Freemasonry at length. It provides more details about the organization and expounds on its operations.
It focuses on the symbols displayed in different areas of the lodge, i.e., alter, working tools and decor, and the meaning held in different life stages.
Duncan’s Ritual of Freemasonry
Written by Malcolm C. Duncan and published in 1976. The book is a reprint of the original version.
It is one of the most well-illustrated handbooks that any Freemason will be lucky to have. The 281 pages are filled with numerous notes and illustrations of antique details of the organization.
The Secret Teachings of All Ages
Initially published in 1988 by Manly Palmer Hall. It is an encyclopedia that interprets rituals, teachings, and practices of the middle ages.
The subjects range from different topics, including Freemasonry symbols, practices, and traditions from ancient times.
Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol
Written by W. MacNulty in 1991, who has been a Freemason member for over 40 years.
The book scrutinizes the origin, rituals, and symbolism of the order. It offers deeper meaning and understanding of the Society transparently. It also explores Freemasonry as a part of Ancient Western tradition dating back to the Medieval Period.
Revolutionary Brotherhood: Freemasonry and the Transformation of the American Social Order, 1730- 1840
Written by Steven C. Bullock in 1996. It is an elaborate history of the order. The author traces the Society from Britain and North America back in the early 1700s.
The book places Freemasonry in the center of the American Revolution through linkages to the founding fathers and the early American Society.
The Hiram Key
It was written by Christopher Knight and Robert Lomas in 1996. The book is based on a theory that traces Freemasonry’s origin to Jesus and the Jerusalem Church.
It is generally based on Pharaoh, Freemasonry, and the discovery of the Secret Scrolls of Jesus.
Freemasonry and Its Ancient Mystic Rites
It was written by Charles Webster Leadbeater and published in 1998. The book has an interesting take on the history of the fraternity and its relation to ancient rituals of Egypt, Greece, Crete, and middle ages in Europe.
The author concludes by discussing the Scottish Rite and Co-Masonic order in the 20th Century.
The Freemasons: A History of the World’s Most Powerful Secret Society
Written by Jasper Ridley and first published in 1998. The author delved into the role of Freemasons in the American and French Revolution. He also tries to determine whether or not Mozart’s Magic Flute exposes the secret rituals of the brotherhood.
The book makes a revelation of 16 U.S. presidents, members of the British Monarch, and some of the legends who were masons.
Freemasonry: Symbols, Secrets, Significance
Written initially by W. Kirk MacNulty. The author provides a detailed description of Freemasonry symbols of morality, life, death, regalia, ritual swords, paintings, tracing boards, architecture, and all other items of value used in Masonry operations.
The book is also equipped with the history of the brotherhood from the earliest known masons to the present-day organization.
Solomon’s Builders: Freemasons, Founding Fathers and the Secrets of Washington, D.C.
Published in 2006, written by Christopher L. Hodapp. The author attempts to answer the popular question, ‘Did Freemasons create the United States of America?’
The book connects masonry involvement to the creation of the United States. It expounds on American masonic founding fathers i.e., Benjamin Franklin, George Washington.
The book also explains national monuments and other U.S. symbols to Freemasonry.
The Secret Science of Masonic Initiation
It was written by Robert Lomas and published in 2009. In his book, Robert shares the path masons must take to find knowledge, the purpose of the brotherhood, and his understanding of the Society.
He describes Society as a way of discovering your self and steps to spiritual, mind, and body adventure.
Sworn in Secret: Freemasonry and the Knights Templar
Written by Sanford Holst in 2012. It explores known masons and the activities of the Knights Templar. The book offers a new perception of the rituals, practices, and symbols of the order and its role in the world.
The author traces the origin of Masonry to Solomon’s Temple, earlier crusades, and the rise of Christianity. He links the events to the rise of stonemasons and templars in an attempt to make new meaning.
