The Cryptic Degrees
The essential Degrees of Cryptic Masonry in the Universal or American York Rite are the degrees of Royal Master, Select Master, Super Excellent Master, along with the invitational Orders of the Silver Trowel or Thrice Illustrious Master and the Order of the Secret Vault.
It is a peculiarity of the York Rite, whether intended or not by the authors, that the movement of degrees is often inverse, and the historical connection reversed so that we apparently go forward in regular progression, the knowledge and light gained always reflects backward upon the path we have traveled before, and degrees that seemed complete when we received them are found to require the explanation of subsequent degrees before they can be understood. That is what makes the infinite interest in the work, and causes the reflective mason to continually study the sublime precepts and ceremonies of the order. This is especially true of the Cryptic degrees, two of which historically preceded the Royal Arch but which hold in reserve their valuable teachings until the candidate is ready to receive them with the most impressive effect.
This is the first degree of the Cryptic Rite as conferred in the United States of America. Candidates who receive the degree are impressed with its dignified ritual and relevant teachings. It contains one section which is generally regarded as an outstanding display of symbolism and content of philosophy. The ritualistic presentations in the degree explain the articles contained in the Holy of Holies of King Solomon’s Temple, including the Ark of the Covenant. A knowledge of which is essential to those who would fully understand the preceding degrees. The principal characters in the degree are Hiram Abiff and Adoniram.
In this degree Hiram Abif is alive and speaks, imparting to the candidate the sublime teachings of useful labor on earth and a worthy end of life. The tragedy of his untimely death is again brought forth with the great loss suffered by the Craft. This is one of the most beautiful degrees in all Masonry, with lessons so impressive that they are never forgotten. It is especially illustrative of the third and seventh degrees.
The degree of Select Master has not always been associated with that of Royal Master. Jeremy Cross, a traveling Masonic lecturer, author, and educator of the early 1800’s, is given credit by most writers for having combined the two degrees into one rite. There is strong evidence to support the theory that the degree came from a similar degree in the Scottish Rite called Intimate Secretary or Grand Tiler of King Solomon. Regardless of its origin, the legend of this degree is old. The scene of this degree is laid in the underground vault of King Solomon’s Temple. The events which characterize the degree are stirring enough to make it one of intense interest. The principal characters in this degree are King Solomon and a particular friend.
In this degree we have dramatized one of the incidents that occurred during the building of the Temple. It is closely connected with the Royal Arch degree, and in fact it affords the explanation needed for its perfect understanding. The place of meeting represents a “Secret Vault” or crypt beneath the Temple. Our ancient Grand Masters appear in charge of a very important work connected with the Temple. One of King Solomon’s most particular friends is promoted to the work, in which only a limited number are employed. The historical object of the degree is to commemorate the deposits of an important secret or treasure. Certain secrets are imparted to the candidate, which make clear to him the preceding degrees. It is highly dramatic and of the greatest interest.
This degree has no connection either in history or symbolism with the Royal and Select Master degrees. It refers to circumstances that occurred during the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuzaradan, commander of the army of the King of Babylon. The ceremonies are intended to represent the final destruction of the Temple and the carrying away of the captive Jews to Babylon as exemplified in the Royal Arch degree. The Super-Excellent Master degree is divided into three striking scenes. The first scene represents the Jewish captives at Babylon under the direction of Haggai, the Prophet. In the second scene King edekiah, of Judah listens to his false counselors and despises the warnings of the Prophet Jeremiah, and the vengeance of the Lord is poured upon him. Jerusalem is captured and its wicked King is taken with his sons before King Nebuchadnezzar, who causes the sons to be put to death before their father’s face, after which he deprives the wretched parent of his eyesight and carries him in chains to Babylon. In colorful and spectacular manner, this degree portrays the fatal effects that follow the violation of sacred obligations.
As we have stated, the degree of Super Excellent Master is not a degree of the Crypt. But, it relates events that lead to the recovery of the lost Word. This degree beautifully tells of a period in history in which all Freemasons are interested, that period following the destruction of the First Temple. The essence of the degree is foretold in the presentation by the Principal Sojourner in the Royal Arch Degree when he makes the following reference: “Zedekiah was one and twenty years old when he began to reign and he reigned for eleven years in Jerusalem, and he did which was evil in the sight of the Lord his God,” etc. The degree of Super Excellent Master is one of the best devised, most impressive, and beautiful degrees. It is most enlightening and relevant to one’s daily life. In a display of exciting events, Biblical characters come to life exemplifying this historic event. Here Nebuchadnezzar rules again, Zedekiah proves the results of his wicked life, and Ezekiel and Jeremiah prophesize the promises of Almighty God.
The Order of the Silver Trowel is a degree offered to elected Thrice Illustrious Masters, installed Illustrious Masters, or Past Illustrious Masters of Councils of Cryptic Masons or Royal and Select Masters. It is based on the biblical history of the anointing of Solomon as King of Israel to follow his father, David, to the throne of Israel. Charters for Grand Councils of The Order of the Silver Trowel are issued by the Grand Council of North Carolina as custodian of the degree. Please contact the General Grand Recorder for further information.
The College of Preservation of the General Grand Council receives nominations from Deans from each of the Cryptic Jurisdictions or Regions annually to invite Companions who have shown the true spirit of Cryptic Masonry and service to the Craft. This invitational body inducts new members in a degree that reflects their service and intentions both before induction and into their future Cryptic Journey.
The Cryptic Degrees Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be a Royal Arch Mason in good standing of a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons in your Jurisdiction. You then must petition a local Council to join. You may either download their online petition or request one from a Cryptic Companion you know. If you do not have a Cryptic connection, use the Council Locator to find a Council near you. Then email or write the Recorder of that Council expressing your interest in joining. Once you have submitted your petition to the Council, you will be visited by members of that Council, then the Council will vote on your petition and inform you of the result. If accepted, you will receive further instructions.
Degrees are similar to one-act plays, in which you play a key part by your attendance and your heartfelt desire to become a Mason. Degrees teach very beautiful lessons using a system of symbols and allegories. There is never any hazing or poor taste in the degrees. They are majestic and the Masons who work hard to exemplify the degrees want the best experience for you. The Cryptic Rite consists of three degrees: the Royal Master Degree, the Select Master Degree and the Super Excellent Master Degree. The first two are mandatory degrees and in most jurisdictions the third is an honorary one and not mandatory.
Your Council will consult with you in selecting a mentor who will assist you through the degrees and for your introductory period into the Council. The mentor is usually the first line signer of your petition. Your mentor will be proficient in his duties and will be your guide throughout the process.
Your Council will communicate to you any special requirements that they may have prior to your taking the degrees. Every Council has an Initiation fee and your Council will notify you the amount that must accompany your petition and the balance that you bring to your First Degree. By now you have already met Brothers from your Lodge, or Companions from your Royal Arch Chapter who are members of the Cryptic Rite. You now only need to witness and participate in the Cryptic degrees for yourself. This experience will complete your circle of perfection of becoming a well-informed Master Mason in Freemasonry.
Attire for the degrees is the same as in blue lodge – dark suit and tie.
If permitted in your jurisdiction, Companions may wear purple jackets.
Every Council has a different fee structure. You must inquire about the fees and dues costs at the Council you wish to join. They will be only too happy to inform you!