In some areas of the world, they are actually quite common among Masons. Rare Masonic Books This term is used to emphasize the importance and centrality of these sacred writings in the lives of members of the fraternity. The creation of this special edition of the Bible began in the late 18th century with William Preston. Now, we all know what a symbol is. This allows for easier understanding when it comes to interpreting its contents. The ones whose Masonic lodges used the Bible, the Bible that exists today is like all of the Bibles, a translated version of the actual Hebrew texts. This verse is the conclusion to 1 Corinthians 10 which is concerned with eating or drinking anything that was sacrificed to idols (1 Corinthians 10:19-21, 25-28). It emphasizes individual responsibility and emphasizes knowledge as power. An 1880s exception to the rule; due to its beautiful, ornate binding, this Bible sold for $300. To answer the question of whether a Christian should join the Masonic Lodge, we must first answer two questions: (1)What does Freemasonry (Masonry, the Lodge) teach regarding God and salvation? While Freemasonry followers may still find value in its teachings, this version is not specifically designed for their use. Freemasonry offers a way to reach the Celestial Lodge above. Emerging as a countercultural icon, Wilson, along with Robert Shea, published The Illuminatus! All rights reserved. Can You Become a Freemason if You Are Disabled? Be a Freemason | Frequently Asked Questions scriptures which were originally penned by Satanic Jews, perhaps it Yes, the Masonic Lodge Bible contains false teaching, the doctrines of demons. There is no real difference between this Bible and your family Bible, where you can write in your family history, or the dates your children were born, married, etc. Then Paul tells the Corinthians that he does not want them to share or be involved with demons. The usage of language in both Bibles can be seen through their structure. The Creator, the Great Geometrician of God as we know him, is the Supreme Being and is worshipped through various rituals that are performed by the Free Masons in their secret lodges. The clasped Bible pictured above sold at one of our auctions for $300. ed. Finally, if your conscience troubles you because you own theMasonic Lodge Bible, then you need to throw it away. Masons. and (2)Are these teachings at odds with Christianity? To the best of my knowledge, it is one of those things that has been assumed to be "known.". Fourth, continuing our tour of ritual, the third degree candidate plays the Masonic hero Hiram Abif in a dramatic reenactment, wherein he identifies with Hiram in Hirams death, burial, and raising.11 Christians should reject such practice and teaching because, first, believers should identify with Christ in His death, burial, and raising from the dead (see 1Cor.15:14), and second, Christ is in fact the only Savior (John14:6; Acts4:12). Biblical historians and scholars often collect antiquarian Bibles for the various translations that have been printed all over the world. This copy was purchased from a seller on Ebay for $16 and Douay Bible:It was translated in Douai and Rheims. Because Bibles published in that time period are so common today, they are easy to obtain. This makes it suitable for both casual bible readers and those looking for deeper insight into their faith. The flag itself is not freedom, it is only a piece of cloth which symbolizes freedom. This raises an interesting question, since Freemasonry and Christianity have somewhat different beliefs. Jesus Christ 126 11. But you are free to own one as long as you ignore any footnotes and teachings in the margin of the Bible. If your old Bible was published the mid-to-late 19th century, or anytime in the 20th century, its not going to be worth much. What is a Masonic Bible? - Quora Although there is no single definitive version, it typically contains varying selections from both Jewish and Christian sources, such as passages from the Torah and Gospel accounts, as well as other works such as The Book Of Job and Ecclesiastes. It is leather and tooled in gold. In it, I have recorded important family history events, information pertaining to my own Masonic ceremonies, and I have plenty more space for the information of anything else that I find important enough to preserve. The masonic bible is still used by freemasonry today. Unless theyre gorgeous display-only works of art, Bibles have typically been heavily used by their owners. You can even use the pricing information as a guide to resell the Bible yourself. Masonic Bibles & Accessories - Macoy Vintage Freemasons Masonic Edition Holy Bible Holman Company 1925 Pre Owned Blue C $94.87 or Best Offer Vintage 1968 Masonic Bible - King Solomon's Temple w/ Original Box B-1150-M C $33.84 C $28.48 shipping The Bible and King Solomon's Temple in Masonry Masonic Edition Genuine Leather C $32.55 C $50.50 shipping Freemasonry | Definition, History, Stages, Lodges, & Facts 14. PDF Freemasonry and the BibleFrom the first Hebrew texts This is the Master Mason Bible, a book The most obvious difference is that while the Holy Bible contains only religious texts, the Masonic Bible includes rituals, symbols and allegories unique to freemasonry. I hope that those Masons who subscribe to other religions also get the chance one day to see such editions of their own volumes of sacred law. During this ritual, various symbols are displayed such as a square, compass, level and plumb rule. Bibles are heavily used and often tend to be in poor condition. The Masonic Bible is also available in a variety of formats such as paperback, digital downloads, ebooks and hard cover editions. Official Cipher [ritual] (Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, 1989),34. Should a Christian be a member of a secret society? But today, in a time when those Dogmatic warnings aren't taken Furthermore, while some parts of both bibles may be similar in terms of content and language, there can still be subtle differences between them due to changes made by translators over time. The Masonic Bible: King James Version (KJV) - HarperCollins Bible Markers - Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the State of The Masonic Bible is distinct from the Holy Bible in many ways. North Dakota Monitor (Grand Lodge, A. F. and A. M. of North Dakota, 1965),14447. Membership in them remains forbidden. Interested in learning the value of your Bible? The designs interpretation as a Masonic omen was popularized in 1975 with the publication of The Eye in the Pyramid, the first book in Wilson and Sheas The Illuminatus! Finally, it is not surprising to read in some monitors the following exhortation given to newly raised Master Masons: Then let us imitate the good man [Hiram] in his virtuous and amiable conduct; in his unfeigned piety to God; in his inflexible fidelity to his trust; that we may welcome the grim tyrant Death, and receive him as a kind messenger sent from our Supreme Grand Master, to translate us from this imperfect to that all-perfect, glorious and celestial Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of the Universe presides.13. It was written over a period of centuries by various authors, and its contents reflect the beliefs and traditions of multiple cultures. In the early 1600s, freemasonry was widely accepted and popular amongst members of the aristocracy and the clergy. The Holy Bible is the source of profound spiritual rituals and practices for Christians, as well as teachings that have been passed down from generation to generation. During these meetings church leaders would debate which books should be included in this sacred text. I receive several e-mails each month from family members asking what they should do with their deceased loved one's Masonic regalia or jewelry. There is also The Founders Bible Heirloom Edition. 90 Masonic Tattoos For Freemasons [VIDEO]. On Jan. 20, 2021, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th and second Roman Catholic president of the United States after taking his oath of office using a 1893 edition of the Douay Rheims Bible (see around the 4:15 mark here). In comparison to the Holy Bible, which remains one of the worlds most widely read books, the Masonic Bible has a much smaller following and readership. The Gutenberg, also known as the 42 Line Bible, was the first substantial book printed around 1455 using moveable type, and is probably the most famous and sought after antique Bible. These include meditations on faith, morality, duty, and service to others. It is the first book formed utilizing a moveable form. This is an online articlefrom theChristian Research Journal. 9. Finally, with the common gavel lesson the Lodge wrenches two biblical passages out of context, 1Peter2:5 (living stones, spiritual house) and 2Corinthians5:1 (house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens), and applies them to all Masons regardless of what deity they (as individuals) profess. Some of the bibles used by the masons previously are the Septuagint, St. Jeromes Vulgate, and the Wycliffe Bible. Many critics of Masonry, unfortunately, quote from books written by Masonic authors such as Albert Mackey, Henry Coil, and Albert Pike to build their cases. Furthermore, many groups do good works, but this does not justify Christians joining these groups when their core teachings contradict the Bible. Click here to learn more . To begin with, both are based on Christian worship, and have been translated into many different languages over the years. Finally, there are also several other topics addressed in each book including prayer, faith and morality. Masonic Altar The FreeMasons essentially use the Bible for the masonic altar, and they have used several bibles through the centuries for their rituals. His creative thought and work significantly influenced the development of chemistry in the latter part of the 19th century. He fled to various Low Countries and ended up being strangled over there. There are also places where I can record important family events, information concerning when I took my Masonic degrees, places where those who participated in my degree ceremonies may sign, etc. This distinction of content between the two bibles has led to much debate among scholars over centuries about which variant has more authority or accuracy than the other. Such syncretistic worship through prayer, coupled with specific teachings of salvation (see next section), is completely at odds with biblical Christianity. . Through these additional symbols, Masonry aims to challenge its members to think more deeply about religious texts from a variety of perspectives. The only Masonic Edition of the Bible with all these features: Masonic, Scottish Rite, and Eastern Star Records; Masonic Presidents; Freemasonry and the Holy Bible - Taking you through the internal workings of Freemasonry from the first to the thirty-third degree; Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Masonry; Order of the Eastern Star; Questions The Masonic Bible is written in a more symbolic and mysterious language, while the language of the Holy Bible is focused on clear communication of its message. What do you collect? Furthermore, both Bibles include stories about Gods plan for humanity, with an emphasis on sin and salvation through Jesus Christ. if you are in possession of the deceased members' Masonic Bible or Holy Book, the lodge name will, most probably be written into it. Masons simply respond, Thats just Mackeys [Coils, Pikes] opinion! This practice is, therefore, not effective, and I would like to see it become a thing of the past. Finally there were The Writings: Chronicles I & II; Ezra; Nehemiah; Esther; Job; Proverbs; Ecclesiastes; Song Of Solomon; Ruth; Lamentations and Daniel. For example, while the holy bible begins with Genesis chapter 1, the masonic bible begins with Paralipomenon chapter 2. From this we can see that for Masonry, the Bible is not a rule and guide for faith and practice, but only a symbol. This is a question which has been asked for centuries, ever since man began to ponder the nature of both books. It includes notable Masonic phrases and symbolism, such as references to the Supreme Architect of the Universe and the Great Light. , here ) and seven times as a U.S. senator, was reported widely on Inauguration Day ( here , here , here ). Q: Why is a basic understanding of Bible genealogy . Today, many versions of the Masonic Bible exist, but it is far from as popular as it once was. It is to be noted here that many other Holy Books from all of the languages reside upon the various Masonic altars around the Globe, for the Freemasons who are English speaking. It promotes faith in a higher power, obedience to doctrine and dogma, and encourages believers to accept divine guidance from above. For further information or to subscribe to the Christian Research Journal go to: http://www.equip.org. Allen E. Roberts, The Craft and Its Symbols: Opening the Door to Masonic Symbolism (Richmond, VA: Macoy Publishing and Masonic Supply Co., 1974),6. 8. The Illuminati recruited members from Freemason lodges across Europe during its decade in operation, which may account for current public confusion between the two groups (here). Try again Freemasonry & Hollywood: Famous Actors Who Were Freemasons, 10 Secret Societies, Clubs & Groups Like The Freemasons. How? Reuters photographs of the ceremony featuring the Bible can be seen here and here . on October 16, 2017. What is the Masonic Bible? Freemasonry and the Afterlife. In verses23-28 the apostle tells us that Christians are free to drink or eat anything that is sacrificed to idols. The difference between the Masonic Bible and the Holy Bible is not only found in their symbols and allegories, but also in the language they use. We get this question a lot about antique Bibles, and though the answer isnt in black and white, the bottom line is that the value of an old Bible very often depends on age, condition and rarity. In their lodges, Masons use the King James Version of the Holy Bible in which they add an additional book called The Book of Constitutions. 10. One viral Facebook post, shared over 18,000 times at the time of this articles publication, has the caption, Sooo has anyone else realized this yet or???? Please note that we do not provide complimentary evaluations on any Bible dated 1820 or later, unless it has some exceptional characteristic. 5. ! as alleged evidence of Bidens ties to the Illuminati or the Freemasons. Due to the relative scarcity of antique Bibles in decent condition which are 200+ years old, their value and collectibility rises. 1 Corinthians 10:23-29 (NASB). In the days following U.S. President Joe Bidens inauguration on Jan. 20, posts on social media claimed that the Bible he used during his swearing-in ceremony is connected to the Masonic Order or the Illuminati. 13. Tsoukalas, Masonic Rites and Wrongs, 100123; The Masonic Lodge, end of article. It was important because people back then used to understand Greek instead of Hebrew. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between these two powerful works of faith, examining their histories, beliefs, and practices. Florida Masonic Monitor, 23rd. If Masonry is not a religion, then why do there exist Masonic Bibles? The differences between the Masonic Bible and the Holy Bible are striking, like a lightning bolt from the sky. Lastly, some of the ceremonies in the Masonic Bible have different meanings than those found in the Holy Bible; for example, some involve handshakes rather than prayer. In fact, the only thing that makes this Bible a "Masonic" Bible, is that it includes a short . Bill, we're glad that you're here tonight. The Masonic Bible is primarily used for teaching lessons about morality and ethics within Freemasonry organizations, By contrast, the Holy Bible is primarily used for religious worship in Christian churches. The Freemasons Are the Oldest Fraternal Organization in the World. If The Masonic Bible is often referred to as the Freemasons Bible or the Masonic Scripture. So, Masonry is: - A religion but not Christian in nature - A religious system requiring secret oaths demanding allegiance and silence - Universalistic Closing Thoughts that the "Mormon bible was printed and sent forth to the world, from a masonic printing office."4 In May 1832, the Geauga Gazette countered Howe's statements by reporting that W. W. Phelps, a prominent Mormon who had been editor of the anti-Masonic Phoenix of Ontario, New York, before his conversion to Mormonism was "one of the most There are a few questions that we can address in this piece of writing regarding the Bible. Over the years, many publishers have produced and marketed versions of the Bible with added content in introductions that refers to Masonic ceremonies. to the Masonic God, the all-encompassing canopy deity. The history of the Holy Bible is intertwined with that of Christianity, and much of its origin is steeped in mystery. Shrouded in enigma, this sacred text has long been seen as something to be revered by its adherents, yet shrouded in mystery to outsiders. To obtain monitors, see http://www.ephesians5-11.org/monitors.htm. Copyright 2023 Regency Antique Books, All Rights Reserved |, International Society of Bible Collectors, condition becomes an important factor in the value, Early 15th 17th century woodcuts, maps, later steel engravings. In the 1960s, American writers Robert Anton Wilson and Kerry Thornley published gag letters in Playboy magazine from alleged readers regarding a secret organization called the Illuminati (here). The legend (which is acted out in the Masonic third degree) starts with this fact but then departs from it, stating that Hiram was in possession of certain Masonic secrets and that he was accosted by three ruffians who subsequently murdered him when he refused to disclose the secrets. It's worth the price the bookstore has it listed for, or possibly a bit less. 3. important to a Freemason, today? Finally, if your conscience troubles you because you own the Masonic Lodge Bible, then you need to throw it away. In 1738, Pope Clement XII excommunicated the Freemasons (here), setting off a long, long history of mutual hostility and suspicion between Masons and Catholics Dickie said. . The world is like a vast tapestry, with each thread representing a distinct culture and belief system. Masonic Religion 35 3. No wonder, then, that the preface of early editions of the Kentucky Monitor teaches of savior figures overcoming evil figures, thereby redeeming their followers: The Hindus called him Krishna; the Chinese, Kioun-tse; the Persians, Sosiosch; the Chaldeans, Dhouvanai; the Egyptians, Horus;the Christians, Jesus; Masons, Hiram.12 This statement (though now expunged from current editions) is expected, given the Masonic teaching of Hiram. It is here that the all-encompassing deity of Freemasonry becomes an issue. The Bible is used only by Christian when other masons of various faiths perform. Trilogy, and more recently in 2009 with the publication of Browns novel The Lost Symbol ( here , here ). Heres a list of some of these similarities: Additionally, both books feature stories about Jesus Christ and his teachings, as well as other religious figures featured in the Bible such as Abraham, Moses, David and Solomon. . The FreeMasons essentially use the Bible for the masonic altar, and they have used several bibles through the centuries for their rituals. A 16th century Bible Testamenti Veteris Biblia Sacra in beautiful blind stamped vellum, dating to 1581. In contrast to the Masonic Bibles focus on philosophy and morality, the Holy Bible emphasizes faith in Gods divine plan for salvation. Both books have an important role to play in spirituality but serve distinct purposes when it comes to exploring themes related to faith. The exact same Bible, not owned by Elvis Presley, is worth $10 or less. There is a table that is given below that gives you an idea about the Old Testament Bible Genealogy of the most popular Greek, Hebrew, Latin and English translations of the Bible: There are many translations of the Bible that have been carried out by many since 1952. It includes religious texts which are important to the teachings and beliefs of Freemasonry. As such they remain an invaluable resource for anyone looking to deepen their connection with God through sacred ceremonies and worship services. Ultimately then, it can be seen that although both bibles have been subject to translation processes over time, there are still some notable differences between them when it comes to how they are interpreted and understood by readers today. Its teachings include stories of Jesuss birth and life on Earth as well as descriptions of moral guidance from prophets throughout history. One of the exceptions to this guideline is if the Bible is finely bound or has some special characteristic which sets it apart from the crowd, it can have more collectibility. The first point to note is that both books have been translated countless times over the years. seriously anymore, the Masonic scriptures have overtaken Catholic Dogma But what sets the Masonic Bible apart from the Holy Bible? (Louisville: The Standard Printing Co., 1990),21415. 2023 Freemasons Community | All Rights Reserved. But if anyone says to you, This is meat sacrificed to idols, do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for conscience sake;I mean not your own conscience, but the other mans. The above-mentioned company Heirloom Bible Publishers alone sells The Original Heirloom Family Bible, the African American Family Heirloom Bible, the Spanish Bible Nuestra Biblia Catlica Familiar, and the Family Record Bible. Para ms informacin o para Overcoming the Enemy of Education: A Review of Pete Hegseth with David Goodwin, Battle for the American Mind: Uprooting a Century of Miseducation., Who Was Adam? It refers to a group of Masons coming together in fellowship, and, at the same time, refers to the room or building in which they meet. Paranoia surrounding the Freemasons partly stemmed from the influence they exercised in the United States, with many of the Founding Fathers having been members (here). Masonic & Freemason Books & Publications for sale | eBay Henry Pirtle, arr., Kentucky Monitor, 13th ed. The Rule of Faith and Practice 93 7. This is an online articlefrom the Christian Research Journal. All quotes delayed a minimum of 15 minutes. He's also the Distinguished Professor of Comparative . as the authoritative teaching of the Catholic Religion and have caused The differences between the Masonic Bible and the Holy Bible are mainly in interpretation. For example, there is an initiation ritual where members must kneel on both knees and take an oath to uphold masonic principles. The UK's only Masonic Bible, with bespoke presentation page and special introduction to Freemasonry and the Bible. I had come across a copy of this freemason bible and read the notes, looking for any unique evidence which might be used against the masons. originally compiled by Jewish masters for the management of goyim There are a few rare exceptions, but if you have a Bible published AFTER about 1800, it is most likely worth very little as there were tremendous numbers of Bibles produced during this time. Their work was to be performed in Egypt. This article first appeared in the Viewpoint column of the Christian Research Journal, volume28, number6 (2005). Before I move to the next point I have four observations regarding the previous three points. Three Quick Reasons Why No Christian Should be a Mason - Eric Barger
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