Travis Simpkins: "The Alchemical Keys to Masonic Ritual" by Timothy Hogan

Sunday, May 15, 2016

"The Alchemical Keys to Masonic Ritual" by Timothy Hogan

The Alchemical Keys to Masonic Ritual

by Timothy Hogan

Brief Review by Travis Simpkins

The symbolism accompanying the degrees of Freemasonry is multi-layered, containing hidden meanings that often require creative study and abstract observation to uncover and comprehend. In the beginning, much focus is placed on the "secret" signs and words used by Masons, but Timothy Hogan asserts, "grips and passwords are merely the keys to the secrets of Freemasonry, and not the actual secrets themselves." To find further light, one must probe deeper into the symbolism.

In The Alchemical Keys to Masonic Ritual, Timothy Hogan presents a convincing text which asserts that elements of ancient alchemy are concealed within the Masonic degrees, particularly the so-called Ancient Penalties… and contained therein is the basic formula for finding the Philosopher's Stone, the legendary element capable of transmuting base metals into gold. Indeed, passing through the Masonic degrees is a form of symbolic alchemy in itself, the "transmutation of human character from a 'baser' to a more noble and golden state." However, details alluding to philosophical connections between the alchemical process and the lodge room will leave the reader with serious pause for thought.

For the sake of this review, details really cannot be divulged here, as Timothy Hogan's argument is respectfully presented in a way in which only true Freemasons can fully read it. For all Masons, however, The Alchemical Keys to Masonic Ritual is a "must read" book, penned by a respected and noble Brother.