1st Degree: Entered Apprentice

Way of the Hermit

Transcripts, Chapter Markers and Show Notes for all episodes are available from our website - WayOfTheHermit.com.
In the podcast episode, the moral lessons of the "Entered Apprentice" degree are explored, emphasizing that Freemasonry is not a religion but a system of morality and philosophy. It is highlighted that Masonry requires a belief in a higher power, and prayer is discussed as a force for aligning one's will with the divine. The Masonic Decalogue, which is not an official set of commandments but rather a collection of moral guidelines, and the four Cardinal Virtues are also examined for their philosophical implications in one's life.
The symbols of the degree and the Lodge are intricately dissected, with the Gavel and Ruler representing force and its measured application, and the Point within a Circle symbolizing the monad and the beginning of creation. The Metaphysical Ladder, inspired by Jacob's Ladder, signifies the soul's journey. The Lodge itself is seen as a representation of King Solomon's Temple and a symbol of the Temple within oneself. The pillars Boaz and Jachin, the three columns of Strength, Wisdom, and Beauty, the Great and Lesser Lights, and the Ornaments and Jewels of the Lodge are all discussed for their esoteric meanings and their representation of internal processes.
The podcast concludes with a reflection on the esoteric interpretation of these symbols, encouraging listeners to consider how these symbols represent ongoing processes within themselves, such as the journey towards self-improvement and the quest to understand the language of the divine.
This series on the Scottish Rite uses the following primary sources (which you are encouraged to read as well):

• Albert Pike's Morals and Dogma: Annotated Edition
• Scottish Rite Ritual Monitor & Guide
• A Bridge to Light

The Tracing Board for the degree is available here:

• Entered Apprentice Tracing Board

Chapters:

• Introduction (01:14)
• Moral Lessons (02:53)
• Symbols of the Degree (06:31)
• The Metaphysical Ladder (12:36)
• Symbols of the Lodge (17:50)
• Esoteric Interpretation of Symbols (27:30)

Related Links:

• Doric, Ionic and Corinthian
• Corinthian, Ionic and Doric in Ancient Greece
• Greek Architecture: Doric, Ionic, or Corinthian?
• Masonic Blazing Star (brickmasons.com)
• The Blazing Star (dallas-freemasonry.com)
• The Immovable Jewels (themasonictrowel.com)
• The Mystery of the Mosaic Pavement
• The History Of The 1st Tracing Board
• First Degree Tracing Board (Manor of Newland Lodge)

Chapters

1. 1st Degree: Entered Apprentice (00:00:00)

2. Introduction (00:01:14)

3. Moral Lessons (00:02:53)

4. Symbols of the Degree (00:06:31)

5. The Metaphysical Ladder (00:12:36)

6. Symbols of the Lodge (00:17:50)

7. Esoteric Interpretation of Symbols (00:27:30)